Modern World - Part Three
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#301:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 9:04 pm

For some time there was silence within the small room, broken only by the sounds of Kelly sobbing into Rosalind Moore’s shoulder. After a time, seeing how tired and drawn her friend looked, Ruth moved to put her arms around Kelly’s shoulders,

“Come on Kelly, Ros needs to rest for a while, it’s getting late.”

Kelly allowed herself to be moved away from the bed, sat with her head resting on Ruth’s shoulder, “Can I stay here, Aunt Ruth?”

Ruth looked across at Miss Annersley, Hilda nodded her head, Ruth turned back to her brevet niece, “Of course, Kelly, and I’ll stay with you. There’s sure to be a hotel nearby.”

“That won’t be necessary, Ruth,” Geoff put in quickly, “the hospital has some family rooms, you can stay there.”

It was quite late when Miss Annersley finally returned to the Real Chalet School. She walked in to the Main Building to discover that, although after eleven, the majority of Staff were awake and still in the Staff Room. She quickly relayed the news to them, assuring them that Rosalind wanted everyone to know. In the shocked silence Nell Wilson asked the question that many were thinking,

“What’s going to happen? I mean are they just going to wait until…”

Hilda shook her head, “The doctors are making enquiries at the moment,” she said quickly, “Apparently there has been some success with operating on babies this tiny…”

“Oh but surely the baby wouldn’t live outside the womb?” Vida Armitage said quickly, her voice somewhat chocked, “Ros can only be about twenty weeks now.”

“The operation would be performed while the baby was still in the womb,” Hilda replied, she nodded in acknowledgement at the many shocked faces, noting, in passing, that most of them were original chalet school members, “I didn’t believe it myself, but apparently there has been significant success.”

“The baby can be saved?” Julie Berne asked quickly.

Miss Annersley shook her head, ”They don’t know yet, each case is different, and there are only a few surgeons with the necessary expertise. The baby’s condition may be too serious, surgery may not be possible.” She paused for a moment before adding quietly, “Please send all your prayers and thoughts to Rosalind and family, they will need them.”

Subdued the Staff nodded soberly before quietly filing out to their own rooms. Miss Annersley waited until her partner appeared beside her,

“You OK, Hilda?”

The Head smiled tiredly, “Just hoping for a miracle, Nell, hoping that something as fantastic as operating on a baby in the womb is really feasible.”

Nell reached out, linked her arm with that of her partner, “Let’s hope so,” she said quietly. The pair walked back to their cottage together.

 

#302:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 9:23 pm

The modern world again catching up with them, but hopefully in a good way this time, if the operation can be performed successfully.

Thank you, Lesley

 

#303:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 9:49 pm

*fingers crossed*

 

#304:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 10:56 pm

Thank you Lesley!!

At least there's a glimmer of hope!

*crosses things*

 

#305:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 11:09 pm

Thank you Lesley. I'm hoping that they'll be able to operate.

*crosses everything*
*promptly falls over*
*rethinks and imaginarily crosses everything*

JackieJ

 

#306:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 11:24 pm

Have finally caught up on masses and masses of this (every time I thought I was nearly there you posted more - not that I'm complaining)

Thanks Lesley

*hoping that Ros and baby will BOTH come through this ok*

Liz

 

#307: Modern World Author: Tara,  PostPosted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 11:41 pm

So at least there's the possibility of a miracle ...

Glad everybody's being supported, Geoff, Ros and Kelly by Ruth, Hilda and Nell by each other..Lovely ending, sombre but quietly loving.

Thanks, Lesley.

 

#308:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 11:55 pm

There's hope, thank you Lesley!

 

#309:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Nov 12, 2005 3:13 pm

Thanks for the hope, Lesley, now find a surgeon who can do the op.

 

#310:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sat Nov 12, 2005 7:41 pm

*crosses fingers toes and legs*

I would cross my eyes too but then I wouldn't be able to read.

Thanks for that little bit of optimism, Lesley. I do hope they will be able to do something.

 

#311:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Nov 13, 2005 1:23 pm

The following morning saw the rest of the Teaching Staff having to deal with a normal day at the Real Chalet School, despite knowing that one of their company was facing a potentially tragic situation. Miss Annersley had mentioned at Morning Assembly that Ms Moore was in hospital as there were concerns about her baby. As Ros had announced her pregnancy earlier in the term she felt the girls would like to know.

Ruth Derwent returned to the School later that morning, went across to the Head’s Study to report,

“Kelly managed to sleep a little, but not much,” she said wearily, “she’d got it into her head that she was, in some way, responsible for what had happened, because she was so against the idea when first told.”

“You managed to persuade her otherwise, I assume?”

Ruth nodded, “Yes, Hilda, eventually, she fell asleep in my arms then. Geoff stayed with Ros, I’m not sure if either of them slept, they both looked pretty awful this morning.”

“What are the medical people doing?” This from Nell Wilson, “I mean, could we get in contact with Daisy? See if she can pull any strings?”

Ruth shook her head, “I honestly think they are doing all they can,” she said, “they got Ros and Geoff’s permission to place all the details onto a medical site on the Net, one that’s read by experts all over the world, in the hopes that someone will be able to suggest a course of action, maybe even say they can attempt surgery. It’s a race against the clock though, the little one’s heart can only cope with the strain for so long.”

“And if the nearest surgeon is in Europe or North America?”

“The plan is to fly then out here as quickly as possible,” Ruth replied, “and just hope that Ros and the baby can hold on.” Ruth sighed slightly at the end of that sentence, shaking her head.

Miss Annersley nodded, “Thank you Ruth,” she said gently, “now, I don’t think you had a great deal of sleep either, did you?”

Ruth shook her head.

“Then go across to the Staff House, try and get some sleep. You’ll be in no fit state to help Ros, Geoff or Kelly otherwise.”

“What of my classes?”

“I’ll take them, or arrange things with Sharlie and Donna. Don’t worry.”

The Senior Mistress, seeing that Hilda meant it, nodded slightly and left.

After a short talk the Head and Deputy Head parted to continue their days. Miss Wilson having a great deal of teaching, especially for the Sixth Forms, while Miss Annersley spoke briefly with Miss Dean and Miss Andrews about the English classes. Eventually it was decided that, with the exception of two classes that afternoon, Sharlie and Donna could manage. Miss Annersley cancelled a meeting for the afternoon and pronounced that she would take the Fourths for a Double Lesson. Leaving Ruth the entire day free to catch up on her sleep and then return to the hospital.

Miss Annersley returned to her Study; she still had a number of items to deal with. Checking through her papers and files she sighed as her glance rested upon the list of the sixteen girls who had recently returned from suspension. Although most of them had been to see her since their return, one hadn’t, and that one was a fairly significant one. Indeed she had heard nothing from either Janetta or her parents since she had spoken to Con Mackenzie just over two weeks ago. Nell had heard nothing either, and she knew that the silence had hurt her friend. She also know that Nell had tried to ring and speak to Con on a couple of occasions, without success.

When Janetta had returned, the day before, Miss Annersley had thought that everything could be restored, but the girl seemed to be doing everything possible to avoid speaking to the Head. Miss Annersley made a decision, she could not allow this situation to continue, Janetta may not wish to speak to her, Con may not wish to speak to her, she could accept that. But they must see that including Nell was unfair to her friend, she could not allow that to continue. She leant forwards, pressed the Intercom and asked Rosalie to please bring Janetta Mackenzie to see her, now.

 

#312:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Nov 13, 2005 1:39 pm

I hope a supersurgeon can be found quickly! Thanks Lesley

 

#313:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Nov 13, 2005 2:31 pm

Lesley, it's urgent now, so please pull one of your famous rabbits out of your hat.

 

#314:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sun Nov 13, 2005 4:19 pm

Pretty please Lesley!

 

#315:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Nov 13, 2005 4:40 pm

Hoping for the best for Ros and the baby. Crying or Very sad

Hilda here being her usual thoughtful self, regarding Ruth and lessons - and her usual forthright self where Janetta (and indeed Con!) are concerned, forcing the issue in the hope of resolving it.

Thank you, Lesley.

 

#316:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sun Nov 13, 2005 11:23 pm

Thank you Lesley. No easy solutions are there?

Typical Con....!!

 

#317: modern world Author: Tara,  PostPosted: Mon Nov 14, 2005 12:04 am

Waiting for that surgeon, and musing the while on how calmly we're accepting this miraculous procedure ...

As for Con, what does she think she's playing at? How could Hilda or Nell possibly have treated Janetta differently from the others? It was her fault, Con, not theirs, you should be supporting them.

 

#318:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Nov 14, 2005 1:00 am

Not a closed door scene I hope, Lesley?

Thanks

Liz

 

#319:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Nov 14, 2005 9:51 am

Thanks Lesley - hope Hilda can make Janetta see sense.
still wibbling for the baby...

 

#320:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Nov 14, 2005 10:47 am

*also wibbling for the baby* Hope a surgeon can be found and it all goes okay and they all live happily ever after....please Lesley? *pleading eyes*

Also hope Hilda can get through to Janetta.

Thanks Lesley Kiss

 

#321:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Nov 14, 2005 12:05 pm

Please Lesley make everything ok...

Thank you.

 

#322:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Nov 14, 2005 9:52 pm

Miss Annersley had spoken with Janetta Mackenzie for quite a long time, when the interview had finished Janetta had returned to her lessons with a deep scowl on her face. On entering the Head's Study with some messages a few minutes later, Miss Dene had surprised Miss Annersley with an expression of some sorrow and regret. On being asked about how the interview had gone, Miss Annersley's only reply had been a quiet,

"Badly, Rosalie, it went badly."

"But surely, with all that's happened to her, what the Police have said, what you and Con have said..."

"On this occasion, Rosalie, it appears that she has had too much of that," Miss Annersley replied, a knock on the door interrupted her and she called "come in!" John Coates appeared and was directed to a seat, she continued, "Yes, too much of everyone telling her their opinion of her behaviour. It seems to have had the opposite of the desired effect. I only hope that her normal common sense reasserts itself soon. Thank you Rosalie."

Miss Dene left the messages and walked across to the door, behind her the routine weekly meeting for updates on all Security matters commenced. Later Miss Annersley had been able to relay the details of the interview with Janetta to the Deputy Head. The next few days continued at the School as always; the Athletics Tournament had been held the weekend before Half Term, it had been won by one of the other two Schools taking part, the RCS being beaten into second place by the narrowest of margins. The athletes among the girls continued to train, indeed all the girls trained hard, as the School Sports day would be held the weekend before the end of term.

During those next few days the two women responsible for running the School watched, with a certain amount of helplessness as Janetta proceeded to show the rest of the School just how badly she had taken the reprimands and punishments. Miss Derwent had taken on the duties of Form Mistress for Upper IVa - Ms Moore's class - leaving her own class of Prefects to cope on their own. Friday afternoon saw her speaking to the Head quite seriously,

"I'm sorry Hilda, the last thing I want to do is report a girl officially, but I've given her any number of chances," Ruth Derwent had large circles under her eyes, it was obvious she hadn't been sleeping well. "I don't know what's come over her, Janetta has always been a delightful student. Someone I've always taken a pleasure in teaching. But now? She's rude, insolent, and has such a 'don't carish' attitude I want to shake her!"

If it wasn't for the fact that the Senior Mistress was obviously overwrought Miss Annersley would have smiled at the poor English, instead she said seriously, "I've had other reports in the last two days, Ruth,"

Ruth nodded, "I'm not surprised," she said shortly, "I’ve had a number of complaints from other Staff about her, it’s as though a totally different person has returned.” She sighed slightly, rubbed her eyes, “I know that Kathie sent her out of her class yesterday, and that Peggy’s thrown her off of the athletics team.”

“So much in such a short space of time?” The Head sounded quite concerned, she sighed, “You were right to come to me, Ruth, it seems that her two week suspension has left her with a serious attitude problem. I’ll speak to her again.”

 

#323:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Mon Nov 14, 2005 10:13 pm

Oh dear, this is going to be a tough one to resolve.

 

#324:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Nov 14, 2005 11:31 pm

Very very hard... and why do I think that Con will blame Hilda if anything else goes wrong?

 

#325:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 6:37 am

Hope someone/something can get through to Janetta! (Inspirational cliff? Butcher?) And, naturally, for recovery of Ros & baby.

 

#326:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 12:55 pm

This sounds rather out of character for the Janette we know - is someone feeding her resentment and encouraging a bad attitude?

Or is she just being a moody teenager?

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

#327:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 1:32 pm

Poor Hilda - no easy solutions here.

I feel like shaking Con - she knows Hilda, she was a teacher herself, why make life more difficult?

Thanks, Lesley.

 

#328:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 2:10 pm

Thanks Lesley!

Hope someone can get through to Janetta, and make the silly mare see sense!

 

#329:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 2:15 pm

I wouldn't want poor Hilda's job for anything! Shocked

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

 

#330:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 5:26 pm

Oh dear! Confused

Thanks lesley.

 

#331:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 9:45 pm

The second interview with Janetta proved to be as difficult as the first; when it was over Janetta had been detailed to spend the entire weekend in detention. The punishment didn’t appear to cause her a great deal of concern. Miss Annersley had sat for a long time after the girl had left, going over all that had been said, wondering if she could have done anything different. She was still looking unusually grave when Cherry appeared, clutching Robbie’s hand, for Friday tea. The little boy immediately ran across to greet his Grandma, chattering about all that had happened at Nursery.

A few minutes later Nell Wilson appeared carrying a tray of drinks. Once everyone had been served, Cherry with coffee, Hilda and Nell with tea and Robbie with milk, they sat back to chat about the coming weekend.

“Are you still OK about having Robbie from tomorrow afternoon through until Sunday lunch?” Cherry asked.

“Of course,” Hilda replied, “after all, it’s not every day that you have the opportunity to attend a Ball.”

“Well it’s not quite that,” Cherry said smiling, “Louise said it’s her bank’s annual get together for their customers. Just a little thank you to them and their friends and family.”

“Perhaps,” Nell replied, “but considering that her bank is the most prestigious in the country and only accepts accounts if more than one million dollars can be deposited, the Ball is likely to be spectacular.”

“Have you been before?” Cherry looked over at the other two, “I mean, you were Louise’s Guardians weren’t you, what about last year?”

Hilda Annersley smiled, “I had an appointment elsewhere the weekend it was being held,” she said softly, her eyes twinkling, “Not a particularly pleasant time, but it had some rather nice consequences!” She looked across at both Cherry and her son.

Cherry thought for a moment then smiled, “Was it really only a year ago that we first met?” she asked, “It seems as though I’ve known you,” she turned to include Nell in her gaze, “both of you, all my life.”

“Yes,” the murmurs of agreement came from both the older women simultaneously, they smiled at each other.

After a short time Cherry looked across at Hilda, “I’m sorry it meant you had to go to prison for a week,” she said, “but I’m also not sorry, if you know what I mean, because it meant that we met.”

“I’m not sorry, “Hilda replied gently, “the benefits I’ve accrued are well worth the problems I experienced at the time.”

Another silence while all three women reflected on the past year; the mood was suddenly shattered however by Robbie starting to choke! Swift action by Nell and Cherry relieved him of the four biscuits he’d been trying to eat all at once - the result of him taking advantage of the fact that the three adults were too busy reminiscing to watch him! Once Robbie had stopped coughing and Cherry had disposed of the four biscuits coughed into her hands, he scrambled up to sit on Grandma Nell’s lap, obviously none the worse for his experience. She gave him his milk.

“Naughty boy, Robbie,” Cherry said quickly, “You eat biscuits one at a time or you don’t have any, do you understand?”

“Yes Mummy,” Robbie didn’t look particularly concerned, he drank some of his milk, incidentally spilling some into Nell’s lap.

“No harm done,” Nell said quickly, she then looked across at Cherry, “By the way, has Ian been in touch?”

Cherry nodded, mindful of Robbie’s presence she said carefully, “He spoke to me yesterday. His investigators have confirmed that Josh has, for the last few months, been an in-patient at a big Oncology Hospital in Cairns. They’ve even managed to confirm he’d had radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Looks as though he was telling the truth.”

“Perhaps,” Hilda put in quietly, “but that still does not automatically give him the right to contact his son.” She looked across at Cherry, “You said that, when you registered the birth, you left the father’s name blank?”

“Yes, his family had made it perfectly clear that they didn’t want anything to do with me.”

“I can understand that,” the Head replied, “however I spoke with Sue Williams earlier this afternoon, asked her a number of ‘hypothetical’ questions.” Hilda paused then continued, “With the technology available now to check parentage, it would be possible for Mr Arnold to prove he is the father. He may, therefore, have rights.”

Cherry’s eyes grew flinty, “Even though he abandoned us?”

Hilda nodded.

Into the sudden silence Robbie’s clear voice rang out, “Mummy, what is a farver?”

There was a pause, then Cherry walked across and knelt beside her son, she took his hands into her own then swallowed sharply before replying, “A father is another word for daddy,” she said simply.

Robbie blinked slightly, “Anton’s got a daddy, Mr Monty, he’s very nice, Anton says he loves him lots and lots.”

“Yes I know, I’ve seen Mr Montebello.” Cherry replied.

“Why I not got a daddy?” Robbie looked as though he were about to cry, “I not loved?”

Cherry couldn’t speak as, suddenly, her throat seemed to have seized up, into the breech leapt Nell,

“Not loved?” she said incredulously, “Not loved? Robbie Elliott, of course you are loved!” She smiled widely at the little boy and Robbie, on the brink of tears, instead smiled back. Nell continued, “Your Mummy loves you lots and lots and lots, doesn’t she?”

Robbie nodded, “Yeeess,”

“And Grandma Hilda and I, we love you lots and lots and lots.”

“Yes, Grandma,”

“And Louise and Alison and Carol, and everyone else in the School,” Nell said, warming to her theme, “In fact, you are loved so much you might burst with love!”

“Me burst?” Robbie grinned excitedly, “Like a balloon?”

Nell nodded, “Just like a balloon, right over Grandma Hilda’s desk!”

Robbie looked over at the Head’s desk, he giggled, “I think that might be naughty,” he said solemnly.

“Do you?” Nell asked, “I think it would be fun! In fact, I might make you burst now.”

“You can’t make me burst, Grandma!” Robbie said, though by the way he slid off of Nell’s lap and ran across the room, it was obvious he wasn’t absolutely sure.

“Oh can’t I?” Nell rose and looked across at Robbie, a grin on her face, “I can if I tickle you!” She advanced on the little boy. Robbie ran this way and that, trying to get away, hiding behind Cherry didn’t help so he ran round the desk at the end of the room, the Study was awash with huge screams of delight from Robbie, giggles from Cherry and shouts from Nell as she chased after him. Hilda watched with a smile, laughing at the antics, when her phone rang she was barely able to hear the person on the other end, for the noise Robbie and Nell were making,

“I’m sorry, Rosalie, you’ll have to repeat that,” Hilda said quickly, “I didn’t catch it,” while speaking she lifted the telephone up off the desk as Nell slid across to try and trap Robbie.

“I’m not surprised,” Rosalie replied, “It sounds as though you’ve got all the kids from the Kindergarten in there!”

“No, only the two.”

 

#332:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 10:03 pm

Oh I loved that line from Hilda - a good riposte to the one from Nell about bursting Robbie over Hilda's head. Laughing Laughing

A lovely scene, Lesley, but - please, who is on the phone.....? More bad news?

 

#333:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 10:10 pm

Oh poor little Robbie! I am in tears. Thank goodness he was not left for one second thinking he wasn't loved! Crying or Very sad

 

#334:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 10:17 pm

Loved that last line!!!

But why am I concerned about the telephone call??..... Very Happy

 

#335:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 10:27 pm

Cath V-P wrote:
But why am I concerned about the telephone call??..... Very Happy


Experience? Rolling Eyes Cath, you're not alone in your concern!

I've been thinking (OK, nobody faint!) How did Josh get to meet them? Did he follow them or was it just coincidence?

I'm still suspicious of his motives.

Thank you Lesley. I do love Robby with his Grandmas!

 

#336:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 11:00 pm

Thanks for thinking Pat, it's saved me having to do so.

Also sus of Josh.

 

#337:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 11:23 pm

Thank you Lesley!!!
Robbie is such a darling!

 

#338: Modern World Author: Tara,  PostPosted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 12:40 am

Oh wonderful Nell, she's such fun - tho' very wisely making things all right for a hurting little boy at the same time, of course. Loved Robbie trying to eat the biscuits, and particularly coughing them into Cherry's hand. The voice of experience there.

As for Janetta, punishments seem to be making her more and more resentful. As Con has clearly been feeling resentful herself, perhaps their negative emotions are feeding off each other. Hilda does need to think of another approach, but she can't ignore the complaints of the staff, either. She'll triumph - eventually.

Has Rosalie got news of Ros and the baby???

 

#339:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 12:48 am

Cath V-P wrote:
But why am I concerned about the telephone call??..... Very Happy

Am holding on to the fact that Rosalie's reply sounded quite light-hearted, so nothing can be wrong!

blind optimist? me?!

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

#340:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 9:39 am

Poor Robbie, but Nell handled that perfectly. Love the last line, tis a typical rcs reposte from Hilda isn't it. Laughing

 

#341:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 10:34 am

You see, I don't like Lesley's happy posts because I always worry that something bad is then about to happen.

Although that was lovely, thanks Lesley! Very Happy

 

#342:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 1:19 pm

Aww, bless him! Robbie so sweet!

I hope Cherry doesn't have to go through a lot of heart ache before Josh is sorted out...

 

#343:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 1:47 pm

Have to say, I'm with Robin on this one!

The phonecall could be inocuous, because Lesley likes seeing us wibble, but then we all wibble for a reason!

 

#344:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 3:29 pm

Poor Robbie

Nell averted what could have been a very tricky situation there with great skill.

Thanks Lesley

*refusing to think about the phone call*

 

#345:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 3:35 pm

Well done Nell for digging Cherry out of that hole with poor little Robbie.

*resolutely ignores phone call*

thanks Lesley Very Happy

 

#346:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 9:10 pm

Nell grinned in passing at the comment, vowing to herself that she would repay Hilda, she continued chasing after Robbie, although she did make an effort to curb the noise. Back at the desk Hilda spoke once more,

“What did you want, Rosalie?”

“To put a call through, Hilda,” the Office Manager replied, “Inspector Curtis wants to speak to you, he says it’s urgent.”

The conversation took some minutes and Hilda’s face was grave when it was over. As she replaced the receiver she rose,

“You’ll have to excuse me,” she said softly, her tones immediately causing Robbie and Nell to stop their game, “I have to speak with John Coates about something.”

Nell looked across quickly, “What is it?”

Hilda looked over at Robbie before replying, “I’ll let you know later Nell, the news is not for little ears.”

Nell nodded, though she still appeared rather concerned, then, looking over at Robbie once more she attempted to grab him, Robbie ran shrieking across to hide behind Cherry.

Meanwhile Miss Annersley left the Study and walked swiftly out into the warm Spring afternoon, nodding pleasantly to those girls outside. A few minutes later she had reached the Gatehouse and walked inside. John Coates was just coming out of his own office when he saw her,

“Hello Hilda,” he said, “did you want me?”

The Head nodded, “Yes John,” she replied, “I’m afraid I have some bad news for you,” she paused for a moment, swallowed sharply, then continued, “I have just had a telephone call from Inspector Curtis, he wanted to pass on to me some news.”

“News?”

“Yes, apparently, a little after two this afternoon at the male prison, it was discovered that the remand prisoner Tom Brookes had taken his own life. The officers tried to resuscitate him but were unsuccessful.”

John looked across, his mouth falling open, “My God, Tom killed himself?”

Hilda Annersley nodded, seeing that others of the Security Guards had started to gather she continued, “I felt you and your Staff should know immediately, I know that, despite his more recent problems, a number of them were friendly with Tom.”

John Coates also nodded, swallowing slightly, “We’ve also become friendly with his sister, Charlotte, she’ll be devastated. Did Darrin say he had contacted her?”

“Yes, the Prison Authorities contacted her first, as next of kin. They then got in touch with the Inspector as the arresting officer.” Hilda took a breath then continued, “I don’t know the arrangements for the funeral yet. I will, of course, be attending in my official capacity - depending, obviously, on Mrs Abbott's wishes. Should any of your staff also want to attend his funeral I will give special leave.” She smiled tightly to the men standing around then turned and left.

“Thanks Hilda,” John replied.

…

The Head informed her partner of the news and her actions that evening, also passing on the news to the Staff Room. The general response was total shock, though a number of the Staff also had the idea that, perhaps, Tom Brookes’ actions had been for the best. That evening, after some time discussing the situation together, both Hilda and Nell attempted to move on to other subjects. Neither of them was on duty that weekend; instead, with Ruth Derwent covering, they could have arranged to be away for the entire time. However, apart from going across to see Rosalind Moore, neither of them had any such plans.

The following morning, fairly early, saw them both up ready to go out for a run. Hilda Annersley had only restarted running that week, due to her injured ankle, and was unable to run as far as normal, although this was slowly improving. Once ready they waited for Ian French to appear before setting off. The three made their way round the normal circuit, down toward the beach, both women having an easy rapport with the lawyer. They had travelled perhaps half the normal distance when Hilda signalled for a stop,

“I think that’s as far as I can go today,” she said, grimacing slightly due to the pain in her ankle.

“It’s an improvement on yesterday, Hilda,” Nell said quickly, “are you alright?”

Hilda nodded, trying to walk gingerly and finding that she only had a slight limp, “Yes, it’s not too bad, but it’s definitely telling me that’s far enough!”

“Did you want us to come back with you, Hilda?” This from Ian.

Hilda shook her head, “No, I’ll be fine, I’ll just take a slow walk back to the cottage. You both finish your run, I’ll have the kettle on for when you return.”

She quickly waved them both on before turning back to their house. A short time later, as she was slowly limping along, she saw a figure running across from the direction of the Staff Boarding House, as the figure drew closer she saw it was a very worried looking Ruth Derwent.

 

#347:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 9:15 pm

*wibble*


Thank you Lesley! (I think...)

 

#348:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 9:44 pm

Oh, so dreadful for Hilda to have to cope with, on top of everything else. Crying or Very sad Especially when she was not convinced of his guilt.

And now what else is going to happen? Shocked

Thanks, Lesley - though why I'm thanking you for so many disasters.... Rolling Eyes

 

#349:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 10:50 pm

Where is Pim's desk these days? Rolling Eyes

That is awful news.

Please say you are at home this weekend, Lesley. We've so many things to wibble about at the moment.

Thank you anyway but I'll thank you much more heartily if you sort out a few of the worries.

Wink

 

#350:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 10:52 pm

Poor Tom Sad In a bizarre way, I'm hoping that he was murdered rather than commited suicide, by the real drug dealer *still thinking Tom's innocent*

Thanks Lesley!

 

#351:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Thu Nov 17, 2005 1:57 am

Akshully Kat, that was my immediate thought too. Let's hope we're right and he didn't suicide.

 

#352:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Thu Nov 17, 2005 4:32 am

Oh, poor Tom....

And now what's on the horizon?

Thanks Lesley.

 

#353:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Nov 17, 2005 10:00 am

Poor Tom, he msut have been desperate, unless he was murdered, of course.

Now we've got somthing else to wibble about. I hope it's not bad news about Ros.

 

#354:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Nov 17, 2005 3:57 pm

*wibbling hugely*

I'm considering hiding under my desk, as Pim's is no longer available to us!

 

#355:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Nov 17, 2005 5:56 pm

I have some space under my desk (and a coffee machine for some reason) if you want to come and wibble with me Fran.

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

#356:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Nov 17, 2005 11:08 pm

“Oh Hilda, I’m glad I’ve found you,”

“What is it Ruth?” Hilda stopped suddenly and paled, “It’s not Rosalind?”

Ruth nodded, “Well yes, it is, but not the way you think!” A great smile crossed her face and the Head suddenly found herself engulfed in a large hug from the younger women, “Geoff called, they’ve found someone willing to do the operation, well two surgeons actually. One is flying in from Great Ormond Street in London, while the other is here - works at the Monash Clinic. The doctors hadn’t said anything about the surgeon flying in, in case he got here too late. But they’re going to do the surgery this afternoon and…”

“And you want to be there, to lend your support?” Hilda said gently, when she had caught her breath.

Ruth nodded, her expression apologetic, “Yes Hilda, if possible.”

Hilda smiled, “Well,” she said, “I wasn’t planning on going anywhere this weekend anyway. Don’t worry Ruth, I’ll take on the duty, now get along to the hospital. Are you taking Kelly with you?”

“Yes, I’ve already told her, she’s getting ready now.”

Hilda leant forward, kissed her friend on the cheek, “Go,” she ordered softly, “Keep me updated as to Rosalind and the baby’s progress, and give all of them my love.” She then laughed to see the normally dignified Senior Mistress abandon all pretence at dignity and run over to the Senior Boarding House to collect Kelly.

Later, when Nell and Ian returned to the cottage, they found that Hilda was still smiling, she explained why while pouring out coffee for both of them,

“Excellent news, Hilda,” Nell said, also smiling, “I just pray the experts will be able to help the babe.” She frowned suddenly, remembering, “Oh, but if you’ve taken on the duty for the weekend you’ll not be able to come out this afternoon?”

Hilda shook her head, “No, but I’d not expected to, remember Robbie will be here.”

“Yes I know,” Nell nodded, “Only Ian and I thought we could go into town, Ian knows this wonderful little Italian restaurant, the couple who run it love children, he..”

“I was going to invite all of you to dinner tonight, Hilda,” Ian interrupted, “We could make it early evening so Robbie doesn’t get over tired?”

“Oh I see,” Hilda smiled, “well never mind, another time perhaps. Why don’t the two of you go, Nell? I’ll be more than happy with Robbie, and it would be a shame for the evening to be wasted.”

Ian looked across at Nell, his dark blue eyes staring with some intensity into her grey ones, “How about it, Nell?” He stretched forth to rest his hand on top of hers on the table. “Do you think you could manage to cope with an evening with just me for company?”

Nell Wilson took a deep breath and swallowed quickly, when she replied it was in very low tones, “I think I’d be able to cope," they continued staring at each other.

Hilda rose from the table, “I’ve got to get changed, go across to the School,” she said quietly in explanation. She wasn’t sure if either of them actually heard her.

 

#357:  Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire PostPosted: Thu Nov 17, 2005 11:16 pm

Wheeeeeee!
*cheers and whistles*
They've managed to arrange a date!

 

#358:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Nov 17, 2005 11:33 pm

Wonderful - thanks Lesley Very Happy

*hoping the operation is a complete success*

Liz

 

#359:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Thu Nov 17, 2005 11:48 pm

Oh, my!

Please let the operation be a success!

 

#360: Modern world Author: Tara,  PostPosted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 12:35 am

You miss a night, and everything's changed! I'd forgotten that Lesley is the mistress of the multi-plot. My head is now spinning. I, too, think Tom is (was, poor bloke) innocent. Could it be that John is not as nice as he seems??

All fingers and toes crossed for Ros.

And Ian? Hmmm ... am I alone in feeling he'd be a pretty poor substitute for Hilda??? Am quite prepared to admit to being a cynical old cow!

 

#361:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 3:26 am

Ohhh Romance! A date!


Oh and I hope the op goes OK of course.

 

#362:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 3:34 am

Thank you Lesley. I was trying to work out the number of plots but I don't have enough fingers!

 

#363:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 10:36 am

I'm very upset about Tom, how awful Crying or Very sad counterbalanced a bit by the good news that there might be an op for Ros

Thanks Lesley

 

#364:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 10:52 am

Mia wrote:
I'm very upset about Tom, how awful Crying or Very sad counterbalanced a bit by the good news that there might be an op for Ros


Me too! But also excited about Nell and Ian's date - Hilda is a great (and very tactful!) friend

Thanks Lesley

 

#365:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 11:29 am

What a wonderful friend Hilda is. I wish that post post would make me stop wibbling. We've still got to get Ros and baby through the op safely.

 

#366:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 11:33 am

Ooo - Yay - a date!

And excellent news about Ros - hope it all goes okay

very sad about Tom though. Sad

Thanks Lesley

 

#367:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 1:37 pm

A date! Yay! Finally! Hehehehe Laughing

 

#368: Re: Modern world Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 4:55 pm

Tara wrote:

And Ian? Hmmm ... am I alone in feeling he'd be a pretty poor substitute for Hilda??? Am quite prepared to admit to being a cynical old cow!


If you are, then so am I, Tara! Shocked Definitely a poor substitute. And how tactful Hilda was there, leaving them alone - and no doubt feeling rather alone herself. Crying or Very sad

And how kind Hilda was to Ruth, generous as always. May the operation be a success.

Thank you, Lesley.

 

#369:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 8:54 pm

Thank you Lesley!


*crosses everything for a successful op!!!*

 

#370:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 12:10 am

Thank you Lesley.

I do hope Ros and the baby will be okay. And YAY for Nell and Ian (I think). I don't know why but I have a very bad feeling about this.

 

#371: Re: Modern world Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 11:14 am

Tara wrote:
And Ian? Hmmm ... am I alone in feeling he'd be a pretty poor substitute for Hilda??? Am quite prepared to admit to being a cynical old cow!

But why would he be a substitute? Surely Nell has room in her life for both of them?

Liz

 

#372:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 2:40 pm

Early evening saw Hilda and Robbie sat on the sofa in the lounge, they were reading a book, Cherry had just appeared from the bedroom where she had been getting ready for her evening out, she stood at the entrance to the lounge, listening, as first Hilda said a line, then Robbie repeated it,

“We’re going on a lion hunt!”

“We’re going on a lion hunt!”

“We’re going to catch a big one.”

“We’re going to catch a big one.”

“I’m not scared.”

“I’m not scared.”

Cherry smiled, “Sorry to interrupt,” she said, “but I’m ready.” She stood there, somewhat self conscious, as the two looked round. Cherry had on a very simple evening gown, black with a silver piping along the seams. She had also styled her hair differently, so that the deep red colour showed through the underlying brown. She carried a small black bag.

Both Hilda and Robbie rose,

“Mummy,” Robbie said, his expression very serious, “You look very pretty.”

Cherry smiled, “Thank you darling, now, come and give me a kiss, I won’t see you until tomorrow morning.”

The little boy ran over and Cherry, heedless of her dress and make up, picked him up for a cuddle. Hilda walked over and placed an arm around Cherry’s shoulders,

“You look beautiful, Cherry,” she said, a gentle smile upon her face, “I am really proud of you.”

Cherry smiled across at her, even while hugging her son.

A knock at the door and Hilda went to answer it. The girls poured in,

“Cherry, you look great!” This from Carol, “I said it would suit you.” She was dressed in a deep navy blue evening dress with matching shoes and bag, behind her Alison and Louise, dressed respectively in pale pink and ivory.

Hilda looked round at the four, “You all look magnificent,” she said, “and far too grown up for me to continue thinking of you as ‘my girls.’ I’m sorry I‘ve not realised before now.”

There was a rush toward her, all four of the ‘girls’ attempting to be the first to tell her exactly what they thought of that idea! Hilda was inundated with hugs from all angles, luckily help intervened.

“Oh and I suppose I don’t count then?” The voice held a great deal of amusement, the owner clearly not expecting to be taken seriously. Nell Wilson stood at the entrance to the lounge, grinning across at the scene of her partner being mobbed by the four girls in evening dress. At sight of her the four moved toward her, she quickly held up her hands in an attempt to fend them off, “No, I’m going out too, go back and attack Hilda again.” Though her words were said in a jocular fashion the others realised that she had a point and contented themselves with quick kisses to the cheek.

Nell walked into the room, she was also ready to go out for the evening; although not dressed in evening wear, she did have on a pale blue suit with cream blouse, she had also added a little more make up, not much, but enough to ensure that her grey eyes were soft and sparkling, and her hair, now returned to its former deep reddish brown, had been styled to soften her face.

“Well Hilda?” Nell said, and, had it been anyone else, the four girls would have sworn that she was feeling a little shy.

Hilda smiled, her own expression unreadable, she moved toward her friend, clasped her hand, “It’s most definitely not good English,” she began, “and I can’t even remember where I first saw it. But the phrase ‘scrubs up well’ comes to mind!” she smiled.

Nell squeezed her hand, her face taking on an affronted expression, “Damn cheek!”

At that moment there was a further knock on the door signalling that Ian had arrived. Hilda and Robbie stood at the door waving to everyone as they left, the four girls in a limousine Louise had hired for the night, while Nell and Ian got into his car. Robbie was busy waving to everyone, blowing them kisses. The car with Nell and Ian left first, Hilda watched it leave, then the limo drove off. Hilda took Robbie back indoors.

“What are we going to do now, Grandma?”

Hilda took a deep breath, “Well we could finish the book,” she said, “or if you prefer we can watch a video?”

“Oh, video please, Grandma, we can read book later.”

“Alright, go and get a video and I’ll put it on,” Hilda smiled.

After Robbie raced out of the room her smile faded and she walked across to stare, unseeingly, out of the window into the garden. Her expression was somewhat sad, almost a little bereft, and her thoughts confused. The noise of someone entering the room didn’t, at first, pierce her consciousness, until she felt an arm around her shoulder. She looked across in some surprise,

“Louise? But you’ve just left!”

“I know, I told the others I’d forgotten something,” Louise said, she stared into the older woman’s eyes, “I watched you, as you waved all of us off,” she said.

“Oh?”

Louise nodded, “Yes. You do know just how much all of us, just how much Nell loves you, don’t you?” The words were said with some intensity.

Hilda smiled, “Yes, Louise, I know.”

“Good, see that you never forget and never doubt that.” Louise reached up slightly to kiss Hilda’s cheek. “Gotta go,” she slipped away and was out of the room before Hilda even had a chance to reply.

 

#373:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 2:54 pm

Oh Lesley, I wept for Hilda there. Crying or Very sad

Much as she would love for Nell to be happy, loneliness will fall heavily on her as this continues.

Thank goodness for the girls, showing her their appreciation of her - and Louise's actions were beautiful, and so loving.

Thank you.

 

#374:  Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire PostPosted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 3:40 pm

Oh! Gulp. Sob. That's sad.

Well done Louise.

Thank you, Lesley.

 

#375:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 5:28 pm

Bless Louise! she was just what Hilda needed there!

 

#376:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 5:45 pm

Echoes Vikki! How nice that she felt she could go back and say that.

Thank you Lesley.

 

#377:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 6:38 pm

Good for Louise. Thanks Lesley Very Happy

 

#378: Modern world Author: Tara,  PostPosted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 8:15 pm

LizB wrote:
'Surely Nell has room in her life for both of them?'


As friends, yes, of course (like Con, for instance - Hilda says somewhere in RCS that they'd be very boring if they didn't have other friends etc). As partners and soul-mates? I wonder. I see Hilda and Nell as the most important people in each other's lives and committed to each other at a very deep level. But that's just me, and I really, really don't want to rain on everyone else's parade! Please, please go on enjoying the romance (and I'll just creep into a corner and whimper a bit ...).

Who knows what Lesley has waiting for us up one of her many sleeves anyway!!

Yay for Louise.

Quote box added for you Tara - Lesley with Mod hat on! Wink

 

#379:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 9:07 pm

The Ball was an unqualified success; the four girls were welcomed royally, shown to their table by uniformed butlers and glasses of champagne pressed into their hands. The function was being held in one of the most prestigious hotels in Melbourne and the service reflected that. Of course Louise, Alison and Carol were able to accept this with aplomb, their background and training such that the correct responses were second nature. Cherry, of course, had a very different background, and, to begin with, felt very much out of her depth. Something of this must have shown on her face, though as Carol leant across and whispered for Cherry to, “Copy me!” Cherry was a quick study, and her initial concerns and panic faded away.

The meal was magnificent and, afterwards, a live band played. All four girls found themselves in demand as dance partners. The serious pomposity of some of their partners was, however, wasted on them. Especially when Cherry whispered to the others the type of customer they probably were - her life prior to prison having given her an excellent way to judge exactly what men wanted! She did have to stop however, after reducing Alison to a choking fit - having the oily creep she had made the mistake of dancing with described as ‘the type that wants to wear a dress, and a nappy!’

A little later, when the four were seated once more, giggling over the descriptions, they found themselves the object of much interest. Louise in particular found herself being stared at, some of the stares were even resentful. It was some time before they discovered the reason why - and from no less a person than the wife of the managing director of the bank. As a good host, Mrs Margaret Raine had, along with her husband, made a point of visiting all the tables, speaking to and welcoming all the guest. A short woman, rather dumpy, she exuded charm and friendliness, when she reached the table she introduced herself and politely shook hands with all four. On being asked to sit she did so with some relief,

“Thank you my dears, these shoes are killing me!” she smiled and the four returned her smile, “I suppose you four know that you have the rest of the people here agog with curiosity?”

“Why?” Alison asked.

“Because they’ve never seen four young girls so obviously having a good time yet not trying to catch a husband. Most years that’s all the girls do. You’re a breath of fresh air! Now, which of you is Miss Chad?”

“I am,” Louise said quietly, “but please, call me Louise.”

“Well Louise, may I congratulate you? You’ve managed to seriously annoy a very big customer of Arthur’s - that’s my husband, Arthur,”

“Oh, I’m sorry,”

“Don’t be, my dear, Arthur hates the family, he was tickled pink when you came along.”

“Why? What did Louise do?” Carol voiced the question all of them were wanting asked.

Margaret Raine smiled, “You overtook him as the bank’s biggest investor,” she said, “All of a sudden he discovered that not only did he not have the largest fortune, but that the person that did was a young girl - really ticked him off, I can tell you.” she chuckled reprehensively before continuing, “Between you and me,” she said, “it didn’t come any too soon. The Arnold family has been far too sure of themselves for far too long - seem to feel that, because they have money and their family has been here for hundreds of years, that makes them better than everyone else. I’ve said to Arthur that counting their lineage like that’s not such a good thing, I can trace my ancestors right back to one of the first ships that landed here - and before you ask, no I don’t think my umpteen great grandfather came here willingly!”

As the older woman finished all four girls laughed along with her, Mrs Raine looked round, a twinkle in her eye, she leant forwards, “Confidentially girls, Arthur was delighted, especially as you were prepared to allow him to invest your money - I hope you feel he has done a good job?”

Louise nodded, “Most definitely, Mrs Raine…”

“Call me Maggie, dear,”

“Yes er Maggie,” Louise stopped, somewhat confused. The older woman saw this and smiled,

“You seem a little confused.”

“Well, shell shocked, actually.” Louise said with a smile, “I mean, you don’t know us.”

“No, but Arthur got to know your Guardians last year - I’ve never seen him so impressed with two women - he even felt they'd be enough to suppress me - of course he’s been trying to do that since we first married - hasn’t managed it yet though!” She sat back in her chair, grinned around at the four, “Now me? I don’t hold grudges, never felt it worthwhile, but Arthur does. Years ago, when we were first married, Stanley Arnold made a comment to him about how he felt I was unsuitable as the wife of an up and coming banker, I wasn’t staid and respectable enough. Arthur keeps him as a client, even though he hates the man, just to rub his nose in the fact that he made MD even with me along!”

Last edited by Lesley on Sat Nov 19, 2005 10:24 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#380:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 9:58 pm

Two posts to find!
Oh poor Hilda, but what a lovely gesture from Louise! I foresee that this will continue to be hard for her (Hilda, that is).

Arnold???!!! Hmmmm...

Loved Cherry's comment!

 

#381:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Nov 20, 2005 12:12 am

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

Liz

 

#382:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Sun Nov 20, 2005 12:25 pm

*Hmmm*

Thanks Lesley!

*Cogitates*

 

#383: Re: Modern world Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Nov 20, 2005 1:30 pm

Tara wrote:
I wonder. I see Hilda and Nell as the most important people in each other's lives and committed to each other at a very deep level. But that's just me


No, it isn't, Tara. Laughing I'm behind you every step of the way. I see no one else offering them what they offer each other.

So please can I come and whimper in that corner with you? Wink

Interesting and intriguing last post, Lesley, thank you.

 

#384:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Nov 20, 2005 11:30 pm

It was very late that night when the car drew up outside the cottage. As Nell got out of the front passenger seat she looked across to see that the cottage was in darkness,

‘As it should be,' she thought, ‘considering it’s,' she squinted at her watch, ‘a quarter past two in the morning!’

Beside her she heard the driver’s side door open and looked across, Ian French smiled at her, the smile lighting up those dark blue eyes and showing the mischief within. The meal had been a great success, the company even more so. Ian was an excellent companion, at turns witty, serious and teasing. He was interested in astronomy and geology and, although strictly an amateur in those two subjects, was enthusiastic and prepared to learn more. He had no problem with Nell knowing more in certain subjects, just accepted it in the same way that she accepted his depth of knowledge of the Law and how it affected the ordinary person.

The two didn’t agree on everything however, and it was when having a serious disagreement about Capital Punishment that they were interrupted by the manager of the restaurant - he wanted to close and they were the only patrons left I the place! The disagreement didn’t cause any problems however, once outside and walking along a river bank, they continued the argument. Finally they finished it by agreeing that each had a valid opinion and would agree to differ. Rather than go home immediately, Ian had taken Nell on a drive through Melbourne, pointing out places of interest. They had visited Chinatown, climbed to the top of the tallest building, sat by the harbour watching ships docking and undocking. They had never stopped talking and laughing and arguing, delighting in the discovering of another who shared their sense of humour.

And they had continually looked into each others eyes, searching for and finding something special.

Ian walked across, reached out and took Nell’s hand, “Nell, it’s late, I don’t think it’s fair to come in for coffee now. I wouldn’t want to wake up young Robbie.”

“Are you sure, Ian? OK, I’ll see you in the morning.” Nell Wilson smiled and Ian raised her hand to his lips, kissed the back of the hand in farewell. “What was that for?”

Ian smiled, “Nothing, I just felt like it. I had a wonderful evening Nell, thank you.”

Nell lifted her hand to Ian’s face, she smiled, “So did I,” she said.

They stared at each other for some seconds, Nell was the first to move, “I’ll see you in the morning,” she repeated.

Ian nodded, “Sleep well.” He moved swiftly to the car and drove back toward the Gatehouse.

Inside the cottage Nell swiftly made herself a drink before walking quietly up the stairs. She stopped at the first bedroom, checked inside, Robbie was sound asleep, lying on his stomach with both arms above his head. At some point he had kicked off all the bedclothes, probably because he was too hot. Nell pulled just the sheet over him to cover him, then bent to kiss his forehead before leaving the room. At the next room she hesitated then pushed open the door, the sound of gentle, deep breathing could be heard, indicating the person was asleep. Nell was about to close the door again when the breathing changed and she heard Hilda call her,

“Nell? Is that you?”

Nell walked into the room, sat herself in the chair next to the bed, she looked across at her friend. Hilda had obviously just awoken, her eyes mere slits, her face relaxed. She smiled lazily at her friend and didn’t attempt to move, remaining lying on her side,

“Did you have a good time?”

“Yes, wonderful.”

“Tell me.”

Last edited by Lesley on Mon Nov 21, 2005 4:43 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#385: modern world Author: Tara,  PostPosted: Sun Nov 20, 2005 11:46 pm

A new post appeared while I was trying to respond to the last one. I'm confused, now!

A lovely post, Lesley, though it has increased the intensity of my whimpering (and I now have to go to bed and worry about it!). Sad

Re. the one before. Loved the way Cherry was able to adapt to a situation where she could easily have been out of her depth, and also that the girls were able to have fun without looking for a man! Maggie looks like being a fun and feisty character, looking forward to more of her.

Also enjoyed Hilda's 'scrubs up well' remark - just the right note.

Thanks, Lesley - and thanks for putting my box in last time, I've learned how to do it now.

 

#386:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Sun Nov 20, 2005 11:48 pm

Awww! Lovely post Lesley, thank you Smile

 

#387:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Nov 21, 2005 12:09 am

Sounds like a wonderful evening Very Happy

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

#388:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Mon Nov 21, 2005 8:09 am

Aw, lovely - thanks Very Happy

 

#389:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Mon Nov 21, 2005 8:33 am

The developing relationship was beautifully expressed, Lesley.

But, oh Hilda, don't torment yourself...... Crying or Very sad

Thanks, Lesley.

 

#390:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Nov 21, 2005 9:23 am

Thank you Lesley. That was a really sweet post.

 

#391:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Nov 21, 2005 10:30 am

great posts, thanks Lesley

 

#392:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Nov 21, 2005 11:32 am

Wonderful. Thank you Lesley.

 

#393:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Nov 21, 2005 11:58 am

Lovely. Lesley, thanks.

 

#394:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Nov 21, 2005 12:30 pm

Thanks, Lesley.

 

#395:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Nov 21, 2005 7:37 pm

Oh Hilda don't do that to yourself!

I know she wants to be happy for Nell and hear about it but she must have felt so lonely that evening. To hear what a wondeful time Nell has had might just break her heart.

On a completely different note - Cherry's marvellous! I just loved her assessment of that man.

 

#396:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Nov 21, 2005 8:07 pm

Lovely posts, Lesley. Cherry is so quick on the uptake and the girls are so nice with her.

As for Hilda and Ian Rolling Eyes We're so used to seeing Hilda and Nell as inseparable that I don't know what to think.

 

#397:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Nov 21, 2005 10:42 pm

I'm pleased Nell and Ian had a happy evening. Hilda had clearly managed to work through her earlier unhappiness to be able to fall asleep, but will hearing about Nell's evening be more than she can cope with?

Thanks Lesley.

 

#398:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 3:31 am

*All caught up* Whew!

Poor Tom! No, I'm not at all sure he went willingly....

And more powerful enemies, uh oh! Cherry looks like a pretty good guardian, though, especially if they were to trundle out the odd louse or two as suitors.

And then there's the hospital uncertainty, and the paternity problem, and no recent news from Butcher.... How many plots is that? Neutral Oh, yes, and it goes unsaid that the Ian situation really needs to work out well for all concerned!

P.S. Is the lion hunt bit from an actual book? I only remember it as a childhood game with lots of motions. It was a tad more ungrammatical, though: "I ain't a-scared..." *imagines Hilda correcting as she reads*

 

#399:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 11:14 am

Thanks Lesley, have caught up on loads.. I don't know if I trust Ian. I can't put my finger on why though Confused

 

#400:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 12:11 pm

No post from Lesley yesterday, is she away for work?

Shall we start to chant?

 

#401:  Author: Miriam, Location: Jerusalem, Israel PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 6:05 pm

Kathy_S wrote:
P.S. Is the lion hunt bit from an actual book? I only remember it as a childhood game with lots of motions. It was a tad more ungrammatical, though: "I ain't a-scared..." *imagines Hilda correcting as she reads*


I always remember it as being a bear hunt, but my version was grammatically correct. Anyway, would Hilda teach a child to say 'ain't' Question Exclamation Twisted Evil

I think I did once come across it written as a childrens book, though I never remember it being anything other than a chant when I was a child. Even if it started off as a chant, there was nothing to prevent someone writing it down, illustrating it, and then charging a fortune for it - I doubt it was ever under copyright. Rolling Eyes

Thank you Lesley.

 

#402:  Author: Meganmca,  PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 7:46 pm

"I'm going on a bear hunt" is a lovely, lovely kids book. Never heard of it as a chant, though (but I'm in the US, so probably diff. chants!).

Just gave it to my kid's KG teacher for her 2nd born, today, as a matter of fact...

Megan

 

#403:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 8:55 pm

The following morning saw Ian appear to go running with Nell; on their return they joined Hilda and Robbie for breakfast. They had barely sat down when Cherry and the others appeared, tired but almost buzzing with excitement. The Ball had continued all through the night, finishing with a cooked breakfast at around four am. The four had not really slept, instead, after quickly getting changed at their flat the girls had brought Cherry back to the School.

“We hoped to spend the day here it that’s OK, Hilda?” Alison asked.

Hilda nodded, “Of course, we’ll be pleased to have you.”

A short time later there was a telephone call, as Hilda was covering for the School she answered it, on her return her eyes were shining and there was a large smile on her face, “That was Ruth, she’s just given me an update as to Rosalind’s condition.”

“And?” Nell said impatiently.

“The operation is complete,” the Head said quickly, “The surgeons have repaired the damaged valve in the little one’s heart.”

“Wonderful!” Cherry’s response was just a fraction before that of all the others, Hilda held up a cautionary hand,

“It’s not a total success, yet,” she said gravely, “the next few weeks are, apparently, crucial as there is a serious risk of spontaneous abortion or miscarriage after this type of surgery. We’ll just have to keep waiting and hoping.”

There were some minutes of silence after that, all appreciating Hilda’s words. Once they had finished breakfast Robbie and the girls went out into the garden to play, Ian looked across at the two women,

“I’d better be going,” he said, “I’ve got a few files to read through before a court case tom…” The sound of the telephone interrupted him, Hilda went to answer it again. Bare seconds later she was back,

“Nell that was Darrin, he’s shown himself, a meeting’s set up.”

“Now?”

Hilda nodded, “If we’re quick we’ll get there in time to see it,” she looked across at Ian, “Perhaps you could come too, Ian? It would be useful to have an expert legal opinion.”

Ian shrugged, looking puzzled, “Of course, if you tell me what is going on?”

“We’ll tell you on the way,” Nell said impatiently, she waited while Hilda spoke quickly to the girls then followed her friend out of the cottage.

A short time later saw the three being shown into a small room off the main corridor of classrooms, inside a CCTV monitoring station had been set up. The picture on the screen showed one of the classrooms. A man in a Security Officer’s uniform was sat at the Mistresses desk. Darrin Curtis joined them,

“We’ve had him under surveillance for the last two or three days,” he said, “waiting to see if he’d consider the death of Tom Brookes would tempt him into starting up again. He set up this meeting, she’ll be here any minute.”

 

#404:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 10:19 pm

Wibble, wibble, wibble

Shocked Shocked Shocked

 

#405:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 10:39 pm

Very interesting. Now I wonder about set-ups and mis-directions!

 

#406: modern world Author: Tara,  PostPosted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 11:45 pm

Beginning to get used to my head spinning ... Very glad the first stage of the baby's treatment has been successful, but loads of room for wibbling yet.

Could this all be a set-up? Starting to wonder if Tom is really dead after all.

Lesley, you get several gold stars for plot-juggling and causing finger nails to be chewed.

 

#407:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 1:47 am

Well, well, well....very intriguing. Thank you Lesley.

 

#408:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 3:04 am

Oh, good, one small bit of hope -- or two, counting someone other than Tom under suspicion. But still....plenty of wibbling to do! Smile

Thank you, Lesley.

 

#409:  Author: Cathy, Location: Sydney, Australia PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 6:13 am

Don't know who the "he" is, but really hoping that "he" isn't about to have a meeting with Janetta.

Glad to see more of this Lesley!

 

#410:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 9:28 am

I never thought about Janetta, I hope not, not unless she is involved in the set up and it is much larger than we had thought. *Hopeing with only a tiny bit of hope that Tom's death is not real and just part od the sting*

Love Cherry's assessment of the men, hope Ian doesn't get hurt and doesn't cause problems between Hilda and Nell, hope Robbie's father is a red herring and causes no problems.

 

#411:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 10:01 am

Carolyn P wrote:
*Hopeing with only a tiny bit of hope that Tom's death is not real and just part od the sting*


That would be good please Lesley!

 

#412:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 10:18 am

also hope that Tom's death was faked...
Hope they get this guy - nasty man.

thanks Lesley

 

#413:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 10:40 am

"Curiouser and curiouser..."

Thank you Lesley!

 

#414:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 1:43 pm

Thanks Lesley

Hope the news from the hospital continues to be good

*settles down to watch the CCTV screen*

Liz

 

#415:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 2:24 pm

Pleased - and remaining hopeful - about the baby.

Am also hoping that this will clear Tom - even if post-mortem.

*What tangled webs and skeins....* My head is totally muddled - but that's not hard to make happen. Laughing

Thanks, Lesley.

Last edited by MaryR on Thu Nov 24, 2005 8:34 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#416:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 7:29 pm

I am SO confused.

*wibble wibble wibble*

 

#417:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 10:20 pm

But we know that Lesley isn't.
Which is encouraging - I think. Very Happy

 

#418:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Nov 23, 2005 11:45 pm

MaryR wrote:
See Nell has managed to involve Ian in all this. Gives her even more chance of seeing him. Poor Hilda. Crying or Very sad


But it was Hilda who invited Ian along.

“You may have difficulty having electronic surveillance ruled as admissible in a court, Inspector.” Ian French said quickly.

The Inspector nodded, “Not this time, we obtained a warrant from the presiding judge some days ago, he cleared us for all forms of surveillance, ”

“How did you manage to rig up a camera in this classroom?” This from Nell, “How did you know he’d choose this one?”

“During the last ten days he’s visited this classroom two or three times each shift,” Curtis explained, “we think he was checking it as a potential meeting place, there are two or three other places that have also been set up similarly.”

The group fell silent as the door opened, framed in the doorway, looking defiant and, truth be told, a little scared, stood Janetta Mackenzie. She looked across at the man,

“Why did you want to meet here? And why give me such a short time to get here and insist I stay on-line with you.”

The Security Guard smiled, “Just a way of ensuring that you were serious, that I wasn’t going to find a dozen cops here waiting for me.”

“Did you think that?”

The man shrugged, “Just being cautious, why d’ya think I’m still around?”

“You framed that other man, didn’t you?”

“What do you care? I thought you were interested in drugs.”

Janetta swallowed, “I am, I told you that when you sent that text message. How did you know I’d be interested?”

“Seen your sort before, privileged upbringing, get bored with the way you’re expected to act. ‘Specially here, place is so old fashioned in some ways. So, have you thought about my offer?”

“You want me to push the drugs here?”

“Yes, but they’re no longer going to be kept here. Not going to make that mistake again. You canvass the rest of the girls - there’ll still be some interest, regardless of the talks they put on - let me know figures, I get the drugs, leave them in a hiding place, probably on the beach or nature park, somewhere we can disguise the scent.”

“And what do I get out of it?”

The man grinned, “For each new person you bring on board, you get a days worth of E’s, when they start to pale, we’ll talk about other stuff.”

“Aren’t you afraid I’ll get addicted too?”

The man shook his head, “No, not you, I know, the thrill of supplying will be enough of an addiction for you. So, we got a deal?”

The girl thought for some moments, she suddenly looked far older than her age, “For now,” she said slowly, “later I might want a better cut, first I’ll show you I’m worth it.”

“That’s my girl.”

 

#419:  Author: Cathy, Location: Sydney, Australia PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 12:40 am

A bit sickened and hoping that Janetta is working with the authorities on this one and isn't really planning on becoming a pusher.

 

#420:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 8:33 am

Consider me duly chastened, Lesley Embarassed Embarassed *Must try harder*

Even more intrigued now -too many possibilities.

Thank you.

 

#421:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 10:18 am

Urgh. Thank you Lesley.

 

#422:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 10:22 am

*wibble*
really hope Janetta is helping to set him up.

thanks Lesley

 

#423:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 10:26 am

*wibble* x 1000000 Shocked

 

#424:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 10:45 am

wibble x wibble to the power of wibble.

Lesley, I think RCS is taking over my life. I had a dream about it last night!!!!

 

#425:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 10:50 am

Oh. Dear. Me.

What a vile individual he is...Janetta, please don't be genuine here!

 

#426:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 11:36 am

Hmmm. Also hoping Janetta is helping to set him up.

Thanks Lesley.

 

#427:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 11:40 am

Wibbling even more vigorously than before. I know Lesley is the mistress of the plot twist, but even so, this is getting to be too complex for me.

 

#428:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 1:16 pm

Thanks Lesley

I hope this is enough to get the scum locked away for a long long time Evil or Very Mad

Liz

 

#429:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 2:53 pm

I'm not trying to unscramble the twists, just reading and enjoying.

 

#430:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 8:06 pm

One word - WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!

 

#431:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 8:11 pm

Oh my, I hope this is a set up, but am scared that since we all think it has to be that it won't be...but then maybe Lesley will realsie that we will wonder that and will therefore make it a set up cos we think it can't be cos we think it is one and ...oh dear I am getting confused now.

 

#432:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 9:22 pm

Actually Carolyn - you're starting to confuse me too! Confused

The words were mocking but with an underlying menace, as though the man was able to predict the type of future for the girl. She seemed to realise that and looked across at him sharply,

“The drugs, in the Nursery, did you do that deliberately?” she asked in a small voice.

The man smiled, “In a way, had to get rid of the dope, no way I could take it off site, dumping it in with the kids, well, it caused enough of a fuss that I could easily move the rest of my stash,” he laughed, “even managed to accompany one of the ambulances off site, dumped the drugs outside, away from the dogs.” He looked across at the girl, his expression darkening, “Got no room for any softness, no sentiment, you understand?”

Janetta nodded, swallowing, “Yes, I think so,” her eyes looked worried, “though I don’t know if I could be so hard, I mean they were only little kids, two of them were really ill.”

The man shrugged, “So? Think anyone really cares about you?” He paused and a slight smile crossed his features, “Course, the fact one of them was your Head’s little grandson was a bonus, wasn’t it?”

In the small cupboard doubling as a CCTV monitoring station both Hilda and Nell stiffened, turned to the Inspector; Curtis nodded and, with some pleasure, he spoke into a police radio,

“Right, that’s it. Get them!”

At his words there was the sound of doors being slammed open and running feet. As the people watched, the classroom was suddenly invaded by uniformed officers, all of them brandishing weapons and barking orders. Taken completely by surprise both inhabitants just stood and stared, obeying orders they just remained rooted to the spot and raised their hands. As this was happening Curtis led the other three round to the classroom. As they entered they saw two policemen standing covering the man while a third placed him in handcuffs. Across the room Janetta Mackenzie was being held by one arm by a policewoman, she was crying.

The man looked across and saw the new arrivals, “She set me up, little bitch, well don’t think I’ll not get even!”

Curtis stalked across, “Shut your mouth, Cutter, you’re in enough trouble as it is, with the information we’ve got on you, you’ll be lucky if you get just twenty years.” He turned to look across at the Head, “I’ll not be pressing charges on Janetta,” he said, “But I imagine you’ll have some things to say to her?”

Hilda Annersley nodded gravely, “Yes, Inspector, thank you.” She turned to face Janetta, the girl was released by the policewoman and looked across,

“I don’t want to hear it,” she said bleakly, “I’ve heard it all before, I don’t want to listen to your lectures about correct behaviour, about how bad drugs are for you. They’d have been good for me, I’d have had more money than I’ve ever seen before.”

“Janetta, you don’t mean that,” Hilda began.

“Yes I do! Leave me alone, expel me if you want, I don’t care, just leave me alone!” At these words she pushed her way past Hilda and ran out of the room. Behind Hilda was the sound of Kevin Cutter laughing,

“Maybe she didn’t set me up then, in a way I’m glad, good to see at least one girl with sense in the School.”

Miss Annersley moved so she was directly in front of the man, “Why, Mr Cutter? Why target my School?”

Cutter shrugged, “Because it was easy, because the kids were desperate to try things, because it’s what I do. It was too easy you know, the only reason you found out was because I got greedy, didn’t ration the supply.”

“You don’t regret what you’ve done?” The question came from Nell, she stalked forward to stand next to her friend.

“I regret being caught, Miss Wilson,” Cutter replied, “Oh and, perhaps, that the drugs I dumped in the Nursery didn’t have a more tragic consequence…”

He could say no more, at those words Nell Wilson saw red, stepping forward she kicked upwards with all her strength, Cutter gave a strangled moan and fell to his knees,

“You evil little bastard!” she hissed, “Attack helpless kids will you? Never again!” She shrugged off Hilda’s attempt to restrain her, moved forward, intending to kick him again. Suddenly she found herself caught from behind, someone placed their arms around her, pulled her into a hug with her arms by her sides. A voice spoke in her ear,

“That’s enough, Nell, back away!” It was Ian.

Nell struggled fiercely, trying to break free, “Let me loose, Ian,” she grated out angrily.

Ian continued to hold her, his strength easily more than a match for hers, “No Nell, no more, the police will understand the first blow, they’ll cite extreme provocation, but not any more, you’ll be charged with assault. Calm down love.”

Nell continued to struggle for a few seconds, Hilda rested her hand on her friend’s shoulder, “Enough, Nell, I think you made your point.” She indicated to where Cutter, on his knees, was vomiting on the floor. Nell suddenly relaxed, took a deep breath,

“OK, both of you, let me go, I’ll be good.” After a check with Hilda, Ian did just that. Nell walked forwards to look down at the man on the floor, “You’re not worth the trouble, Cutter,” she said softly before turning away.

Last edited by Lesley on Thu Nov 24, 2005 10:55 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#433:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 9:28 pm

A very powerful scene, Lesley.

I commend Nell's actions wholeheartedly - though I'm glad Hilda and Ian saw fit to stop her. She would have killed him and I doubt Hilda on her own could have stopped her this time.

What an evil man. Shocked And Janetta, why? You have so much. Crying or Very sad

Thanks, Lesley.

 

#434:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 9:29 pm

EEEEK!!!


Good for Nell kicking that scumbag where it hurts! Hope his balls hit the back of his throat!!!!

But Wibble aout Janetta's involvement!

 

#435:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 9:31 pm

Go Nell! And well done Ian.

 

#436:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 9:57 pm

Sad What a waste. Really hope Janetta can realise how much she's messed things up for herself.

Con and Jock are going to be shell shocked - I wonder how much they'll blame themselves and the school/hilda and nell? I can't see them realising that this is Janetta's fault only - her choice, no one elses.

Thanks Lesley!

 

#437:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2005 11:00 pm

Wow!!!
Good to see Scumbag Cutter stopped, but oh, Janetta . . . And no, Con and Jock will not be pleased.
Nell wasn't very pleased was she? Very Happy I bet she enjoyed that kick, but a good thing Ian was there to stop her killing him (pronouns are a bit tangled, but you know what I mean!)

 

#438:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 2:05 am

Well, I'm glad they caught the scum!. It sounds as if Janetta actually hates Hilda and Nell.

Quote:
“Course, the fact one of them was your Head’s little grandson was a bonus, wasn’t it?”


If he's right there, she's worse than I can imagine.

A Modern World indeed! Thank you Lesley.

 

#439:  Author: Rachel, Location: West Coast of Scotland PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 9:28 am

Fantastic writing Lesley - really powerful scenes!

 

#440:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 10:17 am

Thank you Lesley!

 

#441:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 11:41 am

I wonder why Janetta thought she needed so much more. Thanks Lesley.

 

#442:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 11:49 am

Poor Janetta!

*wraps Hilda in lots of padding to protect her from Jock and Con's fireworks!*

 

#443: Modern world Author: Tara,  PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 12:48 pm

Oh dear, I did hope Janetta was part of the scam. Now we're in a pretty mess. Is there any way thay can not expel her? And how could Con stay, never mind retain any relationship with Hilda and Nell.
Glad the evil Cutter got his just desserts, and that Nell finally realised he wasn't worth getting herself into court for! She really must stop resorting to physical violence ...!!

 

#444:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 1:53 pm

Glad they caught him - but helping Janette might be more of a problem Confused

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

#445:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 2:31 pm

What episodes, Lesely. I hope Cutter gets everything that's coming to him. I'm glad Nell managed to land one good kick. With that form, she should be playing for England.

I think Janetta is a harder case to tackle. I think that part of her problem is parental expaectation, - ie, be a good CS girl, and the other part is envy. She sees other girls with lots of money and indulgent parents, and she wants the same spending power. She doesn't realise that a very rich girl, someone like Louise, has the responsibility to use her money wisely and not waste it.

 

#446:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 5:06 pm

Oh dear - like most other people I was hoping that Janetta was part of a set-up too. Now Hilda and Nell will have some very tough decisions to make.

Thank you Lesley

 

#447:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 6:23 pm

Really, there is only one decision they can make. Having heard and recorded her agreement to distribute drugs, and since her responses were also witnessed by a lawyer and a senior police officer, all Hilda and Nell can do is expel her.

 

#448:  Author: Rachel, Location: West Coast of Scotland PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 9:32 pm

I think a good expulsion could be fun! And cause lots of nice friction and tension between characters!

 

#449:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 10:07 pm

There was silence in the room for a while, punctuated solely by Cutter breathing heavily, after a time he pushed himself to his feet,

“Be glad of the handcuffs, Wilson,” he said softly, and suddenly he no longer appeared to be an innocent young man, but someone infinitely more menacing. Nell Wilson returned his stare, unfazed,

“Be glad these two stopped me, Cutter,” she replied, indicating Hilda and Ian.

Cutter looked around at the police officers in the room, seeing in their expressions that he would get nowhere attempting to bring charges against the woman. Instead he just laughed,

“What the Hell, can’t take away my pleasure at what happened here.” The smirk on his face grew wider as he surveyed the faces before him, he deigned to explain, “Tom Brookes, not only do I manage to frame him the stupid little sap goes and tops himself, that’ll keep me laughing through my sentence.”

Hilda and Nell looked at each other, then smiled, next to them Inspector Curtis also smiled, “You really aren’t that clever, Cutter,” Darrin Curtis said quickly, “We considered that Tom Brookes had been framed almost from the outset. The information these two ladies and John Coates gave us only served to confirm the suspicion. After all, someone that could set up a drugs outfit like yours was hardly going to leave such damning evidence in his own locker, was he?”

Cutter said nothing, just glared, Curtis continued,

“And the setting up of those extra accounts in his name? They’d have been more useful if Tom hadn’t just applied for a car loan, we compared signatures, the one for the car loan and the ones for the other accounts, all the other accounts’ signatures were forgeries, good ones, I’ll admit, but still obvious to our handwriting expert.”

Another figure stepped into the classroom, the inhabitants turned to see John Coates standing there, he continued the story, “We felt that the real culprit would only come out of the woodwork if he felt he was safe, that the case was closed, the idea that Tom Brookes should commit suicide was reached jointly, and having the Head announce it to all in the Gatehouse was felt to be the simplest way of getting the message across. Actually Tom is alive and well, staying at his sister’s for a few days. All charges against him have been dropped, so I understand.”

Inspector Curtis nodded confirmation, he turned to his prisoner, “You were our chief suspect almost from the start, we’ve had you under surveillance for some time. Your story of gambling as the reason why you obviously lived above your income wasn’t born out by your lifestyle, not one single episode of gambling in the entire time under surveillance. That’s when we realised that there had to be something else.” He turned to his Officers, “Take him down town!” he ordered.

Cutter was removed, cursing and swearing, once he had left there was silence, Curtis turned to the Head, “Thanks for your help, Miss Annersley, he’ll not escape the consequences of his actions.”

“My thanks Inspector,” Hilda said quietly, she nodded pleasantly toward him, Curtis smiled and left.

John Coates looked across, “Thanks for not giving up on Tom, Hilda,” he said softly, “and for being able to see the mistake both Darrin and I made.” He smiled slightly before leaving.

Hilda looked across at her friend, noting, in passing, that Ian had hold of one hand, she smiled, “Are you alright, Nell?”

Nell grinned, “I’m fine, Hilda, and feeling very pleased that I was able to show Cutter what I thought of him.” She grinned at Hilda’s look of disapproval, “Come on, admit it, you enjoyed it too!”

The Head looked across, calculating, eventually she permitted a tiny smile to cross her face, “Perhaps, just a little,” she admitted.

There was a short silence, then Hilda straightened, “I have one more task,” she said solemnly, her face now grave.

“Janetta?”

Hilda nodded, “Yes, I must speak with her, see if she can be salvaged. Otherwise…”

Nell nodded in understanding, glanced across at the man standing beside her, “We’ll return to the cottage then,” she said, “You’ll not want any visitors. Fill me in later, won’t you?”

“Of course, Nell.”

The Head waited while Nell and Ian walked out of the classroom, she looked around the classroom, making a mental note to contact Karen about a clean up detail, and to ensure the surveillance equipment was removed. She took a deep breath and went in search of her errant pupil.

It was some time before she managed to track down Janetta, she had first moved across to the Middle dormitory 5, expecting that she might have returned there, she then tried the Dining Hall and Common Room, without success. Eventually she walked down to the beach. Janetta Mackenzie was standing at the water’s edge, gazing intently into the waves. Hilda Annersley walked up to stand beside her. Janetta looked across jerkily,

“Why are you here?”

Hilda smiled slightly, “I am alone, no one else is nearby, no one else, other than Miss Wilson, knows of your actions. The man is on his way to prison, convinced that you were innocent of any involvement in his capture.”

Janetta smiled very slightly, in a small voice she asked “You mean it worked?”

Hilda nodded, “Yes child, it worked,” she opened her arms wide and Janetta almost ran into them, sobbing tears of relief and joy. Hilda cuddled her close, murmuring words of comfort into her ear.

*Lesley shakes head* - Why do you trust the things I write? Twisted Evil

 

#450:  Author: Rachel, Location: West Coast of Scotland PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 10:16 pm

I am MOST disappointed in you Lesley. *Shakes head sorrowfully*

 

#451:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 10:17 pm

Lesley wrote:



*Lesley shakes head* - Why do you trust the things I write? Twisted Evil


Perhaps your convoluted track record? At least I was right about Tom being alive, even though I didn't say as much to anyone. As I did say I thought there was some misleading going on!

 

#452:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 10:56 pm

Thank you Lesley!!!!

I was HOPING it would all be one of your twists!

*beams happily*

 

#453:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 11:04 pm

Thank you, Lesley, that makes me very happy and very relieved.

 

#454:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2005 11:13 pm

Hurrah!

Well done Janetta - that must've been so tough for her.

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

#455:  Author: Cathy, Location: Sydney, Australia PostPosted: Sat Nov 26, 2005 12:14 am

Very relieved -- thank you Lesley.

Settles down to wait for more. Tim Tams anyone?

 

#456: modern world Author: Tara,  PostPosted: Sat Nov 26, 2005 12:27 am

Lesley, others have said it before - you are definitely evil! Had me totally fooled about Janetta, though very glad to have been so. Oh well, at least Tom's alive!

 

#457:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Nov 26, 2005 9:25 am

Thank you,Lesley, for a moving ending to a riveting post. Only Hilda....

 

#458:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 1:04 am

Well, that was compelling! Janetta was very brave... and now she will be able to really put this behind her, with Hilda's help.
Thank you Lesley.

 

#459:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 1:44 am

It was almost an hour later before Nell Wilson was able to walk across to the School; she had spent some time with Ian and the two of them had related to the girls all that had happened in the classroom. Afterwards Ian had taken his leave, promising to be back early the next morning for their run as normal. As soon as he had disappeared Nell hurried across to the Admin block, a quick knock on Hilda’s Study and she pushed the door open. Inside were both Hilda and Janetta. On seeing the person at the door Hilda rose and walked across,

“Everything alright, Nell?” she asked softly.

Nell nodded, “Yes, no trouble,” she jerked her head across at Janetta, “she OK?”

“She’s fine,” Hilda looked over at where Janetta sat speaking on the telephone, “she wanted to speak to her parents, it seemed more sensible for her to do so in here, rather than run the risk of being overheard elsewhere.”

“You’re not going to let her actions become public knowledge?”

Hilda shook her head, “No, to do so might place her in danger, it’s better if this remains a closely guarded secret. Only the pair of us, Inspector Curtis and, now, her parents, will know what she has done today.”

The pair looked over at the girl, she was crying and laughing at the same time, speaking to her mother, Nell nodded toward her,

“Let’s give her a little privacy, shall we?” She indicated her own Study.

Hilda nodded and the pair moved to the connecting door and walked into the Deputy Head’s Study. Once inside Nell indicated that Hilda should take a seat and rummaged in the drawer of her desk. A short time later she emerged with a couple of glasses and a small bottle of wine. At the sight Hilda raised an eyebrow,

“It’s barely ten o’clock, Nell,”

“We need to celebrate, and besides, it’s only a mouthful each, here,” she poured a small measure into each glass and passed one across, “to a successful conclusion to the drugs problem at the Real Chalet School,” she said, raising her glass.

Hilda smiled, lifted her glass and lightly touched it to the side of Nell’s glass, she swallowed a small mouthful of the wine, “We will have to remain vigilant, however,” she remarked, “to ensure that no-one ever again has the opportunity to supply drugs at this School.”

“Of course,” Nell agreed, “is Butcher going to come back for further talks?”

“I think so, Geri Shaw said that she seemed interested. I’ll be seeing Butcher this Thursday, I’ll check with her.”

There was the sound of the connecting door being opened, both women looked across to see Janetta standing there, “Erm, Miss Wilson? Mum wants to speak to you.”

Gingerly Nell took the receiver, she had not spoken to Con Mackenzie since before Janetta had first been suspended. Con had been extremely angry about the entire episode, heaping blame upon Hilda and, especially Nell, for her daughter’s actions.

“Hello Con,” she said quietly.

On the other end of the telephone was the sound almost of a sob, then Con’s voice was heard, “Nell, I’m so sorry.”

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Nov 27, 2005 10:19 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#460:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 8:21 am

Ah, Con's saying sorry, that should appeal to Nell's generous, forgiving nature.

 

#461:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 9:01 am

Phew! *wipes brow*.

A most successful conclusion! I'd given up trying to work our how that would end and am most pleased it came out the way it did.

Thank you Lesley. That's mystery #1 sorted - on to the next please!

 

#462:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 9:03 am

A breathing space for the two of them in the eye of the storm - lovely.

Bravo for Janetta, and thank goodness Con came to her senses.

Thank you, Lesley

 

#463:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 9:46 am

A lovely moment of respite here.

And it's about time Con....! But Nell will forgive you - and Hilda too.

 

#464:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 5:00 pm

Yay!
*happy smiles*
Thank you Lesley!

 

#465:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 6:45 pm

Nell smiled slightly, “It’s alright, Con, I knew you were just upset about Janetta.”

“Yes but that’s no excuse for blaming you.”

“Well it’s understandable though,” Nell sat at Hilda’s desk while speaking, “you’ve always had a short fuse, never used to listen. I could accept that though because I’m the same.”

…

Hilda ushered Janetta back into the Deputy Head’s Study, “Was your mother all right, Janetta?”

Janetta smiled, “She was crying but I think it was all OK, she told me off for doing it, then told me she was proud of me in the same sentence. Knew I couldn’t tell her before. She said that next time I’m home will be a lot better than last time, during my suspension. Dad spoke quickly too, he was very gruff but he said he was proud too.”

…

“It was a complete surprise Nell, I had no idea Jan was going to do anything like that, which is probably just as well. Had I known I would have forbidden it.”

“Well the first Hilda knew of it was when Janetta spoke to her on Friday afternoon,” Nell explained, “Janetta had come back to School with a serious attitude problem, she’d disrupted all her lessons, think Hilda was going to read her the Riot Act when she saw her.”

“That was our fault,” Con confessed, “Looking back I can’t believe we were so stupid, but Janetta had a terrible time for her two weeks suspension. We should have accepted that she’d had her punishment and moved on, instead both Jock and I were so disappointed in her, and we made our displeasure known.” A wry chuckle, then Con continued, “Hilda’s approach is right, isn’t it?”

“What, justice with mercy?” Nell grinned, “Yes, dammit, it’s normally the right way, though if you tell her I said so I’ll deny it!”

“As if I’d do that, Nell,” Con sounded happier, “so, if my errant daughter returned with the same attitude she had at home, what caused the change, Hilda I suppose?”

Nell shook her head, forgetting that Con would not be able to see it, “She says no, she told me that, when Janetta came in to see her on Friday, she’d already made up her mind. Apparently it was hearing of the drugs dumped in the Nursery that made her see the light, that and hearing from her classmates about the talk about drugs we had a couple of weeks ago. She told Hilda about the text message that she’d received, that she thought the person who sent it was watching her. The only way she could think of to get to see Hilda without arousing suspicion was if she was sent there by one of the Mistresses, for bad behaviour. That’s one clever kid you’ve got there, Con.”

“Yes I know, no idea where she gets it from!”

…

“How are you feeling now, Janetta?”

Hilda Annersley was sat in Nell’s chair, luckily it was a large and roomy one as she currently had Janetta Mackenzie sitting on her lap, until very recently she had been softly sobbing onto the Headmistress’s shoulder. A natural response once reaction had set in. Janetta swallowed quickly a few times then lifted a tear-stained face,

“Yes Auntie Hilda, I’m sorry,”

Miss Annersley smiled and shook her head, “No need to apologise child, you’ve had a huge shock, I would have been surprised if you didn’t react.” She laughed slightly, “Though I’m afraid you are getting a little big for my lap.”

Janetta giggled, “I don’t think any of us will ever be too big Auntie Hilda.”

…


The rest of that Sunday was spent over at the Heads’ cottage. Hilda and Nell feeling that Janetta needed a break before she rejoined her class. She spent the rest of the morning and the afternoon playing with Robbie and the girls, away from the rest of the School. The only exception being Evvy Van Alden - she was contacted by the Head and opted to join her younger sister. Hilda swiftly informed her of exactly what Janetta had done and Evvy was so proud that she almost burst and she lost no time in hugging her sister and telling her so.

Late afternoon Hilda and Nell drove across to the hospital to visit Rosalind Moore; they had received a further update when Ruth Derwent had arrived back at the School just after lunch and wanted to see for themselves. They took both Janetta and Evvy with them. On arrival they were pleased to see that Rosalind was awake, though somewhat drowsy, and was pleased to see all of them. The news continued to be good Geoff Stevens was able to report triumphantly, further ultrasounds had been performed earlier in the afternoon, although only early days, the specialist seemed confident that she could see that the fluid around the heart had reduced and that the heart itself was beating properly. He also admitted, however, that it was early days, that the threat of miscarriage remained a high one.

When Hilda and Nell left the hospital it was after assuring Rosalind that it wouldn’t be a problem, that, if necessary, she could remain on sick leave until the birth, that the School would manage. They both saw a reduction in the lines of strain in Ros Moore’s expression on hearing that assurance.

 

#466:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 7:12 pm

Thanks Lesley

Quote:
Miss Annersley smiled and shook her head, “No need to apologise child, you’ve had a huge shock, I would have been surprised if you didn’t react.” She laughed slightly, “Though I’m afraid you are getting a little big for my lap.”

Janetta giggled, “I don’t think any of us will ever be too big Auntie Hilda.”


Lovely Very Happy

 

#467:  Author: Rachel, Location: West Coast of Scotland PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 8:11 pm

*Pulls up a chair and sits back ready to watch people catapulting off the cliff*


Yes, I *know* you can't see the cliff yet, but that's cos you never do! But that last post had FAR too much happiness and jollifications for Lesley to leave it like that for long!

 

#468:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 8:39 pm

Both Nell and Hilda entirely true to character there - lovely.

Tut tut, Nell, not admitting to Hilda that you know her *justice with mercy* approach is right! Laughing

And as for that line about Hilda's lap....wonderful! Can I join Janetta there please? Wink

Thanks, Lesley.

 

#469:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 8:58 pm

That was a great post Lesley! (although, like Rachel, I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop......)

 

#470:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 9:58 pm

Laughing Nicely twisted, thanks Lesley!!

 

#471:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 10:09 pm

Vikki wrote:
That was a great post Lesley! (although, like Rachel, I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop......)


LOL.

*Echoes Vikki*

 

#472:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 11:26 pm

Thank you Lesley. Lovely - especially Janetta's line about Hilda's lap. And of course Nell would forgive Con.

Am now rested and refreshed, ready for next Event. Wonder what it will be? Hmmm....ponders. Very Happy

 

#473:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 11:27 pm

The return to the normal School week was something of an anti-climax for both the Head and Deputy Head, both of them feeling that, after the excitement of the weekend, they would feel somewhat flat. However it took less than half a day for them to both feel quite normal. Discussing it at the end of the SMT meeting, just before lunch, Nell Wilson put forward her theory,

“It’s like this, Hilda,” she began, sipping her tea, “we’ve got to remember our origins, we were both designed to be excellent teachers, both designed to head the School, we shouldn’t be surprised that we are following our programming.”

Miss Annersley looked across at her friend, steepling her fingers as she thought, finally she spoke, “You’ve been reading that book again, haven’t you? ‘I Robot’ by Asimov? We aren’t following programming Nell, exactly where in the series did it say anything about us enjoying motorbike riding?”

“Well, there is that…” Nell grinned, “OK, then perhaps it’s just something we enjoy.”

“Exactly.”

Nell grimaced at her friend then stopped, thinking, “Oh by the way, Hilda, did you have a look at all the bits that were going into the magazine before they went to print?”

The Head frowned slightly, “You know I didn’t, Nell, I didn’t have time, why?”

“Oh, nothing much, just an article I saw in there. Ruth checked it was OK, I said I was sure you wouldn’t mind.”

“Wouldn’t mind what?” Miss Annersley was only half listening to her friend while making a start at checking through her emails.

“One of the articles was about the lecture given by Butcher, I think she must have had a tape recorder in there, had it almost verbatim.”

“Can’t see a problem with that, Nell,” Miss Annersley replied absently, “It will be useful for the parents to see the content of Butcher’s talks, it should ensure there are less complaints about it. Why would you think otherwise?”

Miss Wilson straightened her face rather rapidly, “Oh, no reason, Hilda,” she said in her most innocent voice.

…

On the Tuesday afternoon Cherry visited the Head to pass on some information, “I’ve had a letter from Josh,” she said, handing it over.

Hilda read the letter, then précised the contents, “It says here that he’s apologising for the abrupt contact, but wants to try and do his best for his son, in the short time he has left. That he knows how disruptive it could be for Robbie and so won’t insist on telling him he’s Robbie’s father. Wants to meet up this weekend.”

“That’s about it,” Cherry said quickly.

“What do you want to do?”

Cherry looked serious, “I don’t know, perhaps this will be good for Robbie, but how can I then expect him to understand once Josh dies, how can I explain that?”

“And later, when Robbie is older?” Hilda said gently.

Cherry nodded, “I know, it’s just, after all this time, after all I had to do, for him to arrive now.”

Hilda and Nell looked at each other, their expressions grave, “Perhaps,” Hilda said delicately, “Josh’s parents, his family, gave him little choice, perhaps he is now attempting to do the right thing.”

“It can’t hurt to see him, Cherry,” this from Nell, “Have him come over here, meet up at the cottage, that way it’ll be on your terms, in your territory.”

Cherry thought for a few minutes, “OK, I’ll do that, thanks.”

…

Thursday early afternoon saw Hilda Annersley make her regular visit to the State Prison to see Butcher. The visit was successful; Hilda able to confirm with Butcher that more drugs talks would be well received. She also passed on information about the capture of Kevin Cutter as the drug dealer, and Janetta’s role in trapping him. After the visit Butcher was unusually quiet and thoughtful as she was escorted back to the metal shop to continue working. Rees caught this, during a lull in the work she managed to speak to her,

“You OK, Butcher? You’ve hardly said a word since you came back. Visit not go well?”

Butcher shook herself, “Visit went fine, Rees,” she said, “just something Annersley said, left me wondering.” She paused for some seconds then looked quickly at the time, “What time does the outside work detail from the male prison leave?” The detail she was referring to was a group of male prisoners that visited each weekday, their job was actually outside the main prison, digging some new storm drains, but it had been established early on that it was possible to communicate with them.

Rees looked at her watch, “They’ll be leaving in about thirty minutes, why? Did you want to talk to them?”

“Yes, urgently, set it up now, I need to speak with Lucas, he’s one of Thorpe’s men,” she was referring to Ben Thorpe, her own counterpart in the Male Prison.

It was only a very short time later that Butcher was standing outside, waiting for Lucas to appear on the other side of the wire. Normally when these meetings were arranged the details were planned out well in advance, because of the short notice the only way she could get away was to have two of her women cause a diversion. It had cost her to set it up, would cost even more to ask Lucas to do something for her.

Lucas appeared, a tall, fat man, late twenties, he had a lazy expression in his eyes that fooled people into thinking that he was slow. He’d proved his speed and ruthlessness on a number of occasions.

“Have to make this quick, Butcher,” he said by way of greeting, “screw thinks I’m just taking a leak.”

“I’ll be quick, Lucas,” Butcher said, the two were separated by some twelve feet of wire fence and barbed wire, yet even Lucas wasn’t totally outside the prison, just in a different part. “Need you to check up on a new inmate, name of Cutter, he’d have been admitted Sunday, drugs bust, he’s looking at serious time. Find out if he’s looking at making any revenge talk would you?”

Lucas shrugged, “No problem, anyone in particular?”

“Yeah, kid called Janetta Mackenzie. Need it by tomorrow.”

“It’ll cost you.”

“No problem, I’m good for it, just find out the information.”

…

The next morning it was possible to arrange a meeting without having two women sent to solitary. Butcher waited by the fence impatiently until Lucas appeared,

“Screw’s going to think I’ve got kidney problems,” he remarked.

“Never mind that, what did you find out?”

Lucas looked across, recognising Butcher was angry, “Thorpe has already had words with this one,” he said, “wondered if he’d be an addition to the team, he’s not interested though. You’re right, he has been looking at revenge, wanted to get credit to hire a gun.”

“Did he manage it?”

Lucas shook his head, “Nope, he’s lost all his money, cops have confiscated it. He says he’s got some in an off-shore account but it’ll take a few days to access it. But you don’t need to worry, he’s not after no kid, he wants the hit on a woman, name of Wilson.”

 

#474:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sun Nov 27, 2005 11:38 pm

Ye Gods!!! But why am I not surprised....? And I am not wibbling...naah, course not!

Interesting to see parental reaction to the fact that Hilda has done a week inside while being investigated for murder.... Very Happy

 

#475: modern world Author: Tara,  PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 12:04 am

Oh goodness, Nell, you must stop thumping/kicking/otherwise physically attacking people, however much they deserve it! Please sort it out Butcher, preferably without killing anyone. Wibble, wibble, wibble ...

Was racking my brains trying to think what could possibly be in the magazine article, am sure Cath's got it in one! Poor Hilda, will she ever be able to keep her dignity intact, Not while Nell is around.

Have been away, so just caught up, and have to say how much I, too, loved the Hilda's lap comment.

 

#476:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 2:27 am

See what I miss when I'm computerless for a couple of days - cliffs, cliffs, and more cliffs. And I still get left on a a cliff...

Thanks Lesley.

I'm just wondering...When is someone going to take out an AVO on the Deputy Head?

 

#477:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 2:57 am

eeeeeeeeeeeeek. *finds a bullet proof vest for Nell and one for Hilda cos she's bound to get in the way!*

 

#478: Re: modern world Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 8:49 am

Tara wrote:
Oh goodness, Nell, you must stop thumping/kicking/otherwise physically attacking people, however much they deserve it!


Quite! Laughing But I suppose even she couldn't have foreseen these consequences!

Tara wrote:
Poor Hilda, will she ever be able to keep her dignity intact, Not while Nell is around..


Not likely, Tara. Which is why she is so good for her.

Lesley, I loved that little conversation about being programmed and Nell's closing statement to it!

Thank you.

 

#479:  Author: Katarzyna, Location: North West England PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 10:28 am

*meanders in to join Rachel at the top of the cliff*

Hey, look, they are getting more creative with their free falls!!


Thank you Lesley, one storyline resolved (almost) several more to go! Oh, and why am i forseeing a bittersweet ending to the Hilda/Nell/Ian thing involving guns, near fatal injuries etc - maybe my mind is just a bit warped!

 

#480:  Author: Rachel, Location: West Coast of Scotland PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 10:29 am

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaand there it is!

Looking forward to more soon Lesley.

 

#481:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 11:56 am

Another can of worms, Lesley, why am I not surprised?

 

#482:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 12:17 pm

You'd have thought that Cutter would have learnt his lesson, and would leave Nell well alone! What a very stupid mistake to make!

Last edited by Pat on Mon Nov 28, 2005 12:23 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#483:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 12:18 pm

There had to be a twist didn't there. Laughing

 

#484:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 12:40 pm

Okay, Lesley, that was NOT the other shoe! That was a bl**dy hobnail boot!!!!! Rolling Eyes

 

#485:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 12:49 pm

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

*still wondering whether to trust Josh or not*

Liz

 

#486:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 6:22 pm

Typical, I go away for the weekend, miss the resolution of one cliff and come back to another potential cliff...

Thanks Lesley, hoping Cutter doesn't get the money.

JackieJ

 

#487:  Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 8:06 pm

Well I give up!
I've tried staying away for days, even weeks ,I've tried coming every couple of hours, whatever I do I ALWAYS end on a cliff Shocked
LESLEY COME BACK AND TELL US MORE

 

#488:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 8:18 pm

I hope Nell continues to be her indestructible self.

 

#489:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 8:46 pm

Nice Butcher.....(I think)

Thank Lesley

 

#490:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 3:33 am

*big sigh of relief for Tom and Janetta*

(slightly worried for Nell & Butcher, though Neutral )

 

#491:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 12:01 pm

oh my word, what a rollercoaster!

Glad Janetta isn't being targeted, very glad that Tom is alive and that they caught the real bad guy, slightly worried for Nell (but not so much as Hilda and Butcher are on her side), still worried for Ros and the baby, concerned about Josh and his motives.

Phew - have I missed anything?!?

Thanks Lesley Wink Smile

 

#492:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 10:32 pm

Sorry about yesterday everyone - was really shattered when I came in and had absolutely zero inspiration for next bit. It's returned today, luckily - along with some serious ideas for RCS 8!

Friday afternoon, after classes had finished, saw Miss Derwent driving to the hospital to visit her friend. With her were Miss Wilmot and Miss Ferrars and a very quiet Kelly Stevens. Although Kelly had been in to visit her stepmother since the operation, it had been the previous weekend. Since then she had had to rely on the occasional telephone call and second hand news. Kelly was a thoughtful girl, made more so by her experiences the previous year when, due to thoughtlessness on her part, she had nearly died. She had spent the week worrying about the situation, about Rosalind and the baby, and about her father. Seeing in her father’s drawn expression that he was also worrying.

At the bedside the three teachers didn’t stay long, recognising that the family needed some time. Ruth was the last to leave, promising that someone would be along the following day to collect Kelly, who was staying overnight. Once they had gone Kelly went across and sat beside the bed. Lying in bed Rosalind smiled across at the girl,

“You’re very quiet, Kelly,” she said.

Kelly shrugged, “I was worried about you,” she replied, “all three of you.”

Geoff Stevens walked across and hugged his daughter, “I know kid,” he said, somewhat huskily, “it’s a worrying time at the moment.”

“Is there any more news?” Kelly asked, while relaxing into her father’s strong arms.

Rosalind shook her head, and Kelly saw how she had gone pale, “Not really, everyone keeps saying we must wait and see. The heart problem seems to have been fixed, that’s one blessing, but there’s still the chance that the surgery may cause this little one to decide he wants to enter the world rather earlier than we want him too.”

“When will they know for sure?”

Geoff shook his head, “They can’t say, about all they can say is that everything is going well at the moment.”

Kelly leant forward touched Rosalind’s abdomen, “This is your big sister here, kid,” she said, only half-joking, “You stay in there for a couple more months you hear me?”

Both Rosalind and Geoff smiled.

Kelly frowned slightly, “By the way, now you know he’s a he, what’s his name?”

Geoff looked across at Rosalind who nodded, grinning, “Well we had a number of ideas,” he began, “though I’m afraid you’ll probably find them all very staid and boring.”

Rosalind leant forwards, “We are not naming him after any pop star or celebrity,” she continued, “We want him to be proud of his name - can you imagine what that poor child Fifi Trixibelle must think?”

“Mortified I should think,” Kelly grinned, “so what then?”

“We had a shortlist of three,” Geoff said, “all of which we liked, Drew, Connor and Jake.”

Kelly thought about the names, she nodded, “OK, they’ll all do, so which is it?”

Rosalind reached out and took Kelly’s hand, “We wondered, Kelly,” she said, a little shyly, “if, perhaps, you could tell us.”

Kelly’s eyes widened as she realised what she was being told, she looked from one to the other, “You mean it?”

Both Geoff and Rosalind nodded.

Kelly blinked back tears then laid her hand on Rosalind’s abdomen once more, “OK little brother,” she said, “listen carefully, your name is Jake.”

 

#493:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 10:43 pm

Awwwwww!!! What a lovely idea to give Kelly the final choice of name (and very sensible to give her a shortlist to choose from!)

Thank you Lesley, and glad the creative juices are flowing better today!

 

#494:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 10:43 pm

Oh, how lovely - and what a splendid way to reassure Kelly of her own place in this family!

Thoughts for RCS 8 - oh good!

 

#495:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 10:45 pm

Oh, how lovely, that brought an unexpected tear to my eye. She choose the one I would have chosen from that list as well.

 

#496: modern world Author: Tara,  PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 11:19 pm

This is a lovely little family vignette, so sensitive of them to allow Kelly the final choice.

(((hugs))) for tired Lesley. Sleep well and dream up even more ideas for RCS 8 (is the woman unstoppable? Fortunately, it seems so!)

 

#497:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 11:46 pm

Phew! Have finally caught up from last week! Glad Janetta's in the clear, but now worrying about Nell, and have fingers crossed for Ros & co.

Thanks Lesley.

 

#498:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 1:08 am

Thanks Lesley

That was lovely - and a nice name for the baby Very Happy

Liz

 

#499:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 10:05 am

Good choice, Kelly! Now let's hope Jake listens to her and stays inside for a bit longer.

Thanks Lesley

 

#500:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 10:09 am

Thank you Lesley!

Hope little Jake stays where he is for a while longer.

 

#501:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 12:56 pm

Another peaceful little scene, Lesley, even though the niggle of worry is still there.

Thank you.

 

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House


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