The University Years (by Brie) (Finally COMPLETED 16/6 p.14)

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The CBB -> Ste Therese's House

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#1: The University Years (by Brie) (Finally COMPLETED 16/6 p.14) Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Mon Sep 25, 2006 12:47 pm
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Ruey was not one for being embarassed easily but this was an entirely new experience for her. The triplets had warned her of course, but somehow she had never quite believed that it could be so different from the sheltered life she led.

She was friendless here, and alone. It had never before seemed to her a lonely place to be- in the middle of a crowd. But she was findinf out now that it was perhaps the loneliest place to be.

she was somewhat relieved t know that she was not the only one in this lonely situation, but similar to everyone else she was feeling to overwhelmed to try and make friends.

At the end of the day she made her lonely way back to the halls of residence where she was staying. She was just about to enter the building when she was stopped by a whistling. She whipped round but saw no one. Suddenly she heard laughter from above.She looked up and saw three heads stuck out of a window in the building opposite hers. her cheeks flared red.

"Well, well" said the face in th emiddle, who was obviously the gang's ringleader, "isn't she a piece of work?"

the other boys laughed again.

and blushing furiously Ruey hurried into her own building. Who would have thought boys could be so vile, she thought. Just as she entered the building a tall man came down the stairs and caught sight of her.

"First year?" he asked genially.

"Yes" she replied embarassedly. Her recent experience had rendered her shy for the moment.

He laughed, but it was not the mean laugh of those other boys.

"yes, I remeber that. It's terrifying, but you get used to it soon enough. If i can give you one tip though?"

"Yes, please do." said Ruey her shyness fading slightly.

"it's to get your bearings as soon as possible!"

"Oh" said Ruey confused

"Yes, for example, you're in the male halls just now..."

She felt her cheeks flush a deeper red.

"Oh no!"

He just laughed gently, "Oh yes. Don't worry, I'll show you where to go if you like?"

Ruey smiled back, "i suppose i should be polite and refuse to waste your time, but i'll never get there if I do!"

the mans smile was disarming, and she really felt she could trust him.

"I'm John, by the way" he said

"Ruey"

John frowned, "Ruey?"

"Yes, honestly its short for Ruhannah."

"Ruhannah, i like it."

"Me too, it's good for shoking people!"

"I wasn't shocked" said John indignantly.

"Yes you were" said Ruey smiling softly.

she got back to her room without any further adventures, only to find a girl standing in front of her door nervously. ruey watched her take a step towards the door and then move back again. Despite herself Ruey was curious.

"Hello" she said kindly, "Can i help you at all?"

"No" squeked the other girl, "I was just going."

"Really, you werent lookin for anyone?"

"No" was the wavering reply.

"It's just because this is my room, you're standing in front of."

"Oh"

this drabble ties in loosely with my other ones in ste therese, but as it is set before them, there wont be anything confusing in it for anyone who hasn't read my other drabbles. Hope you enjoy, don't spoil the ending, anyone who knows!

Last edited by kimothy on Sat Sep 08, 2007 9:41 am; edited 54 times in total

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#2: Re: The University Years (by Brie) Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Mon Sep 25, 2006 12:49 pm
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kimothy wrote:

"Yes, for example, you're in the male halls just now..."

Ooops! Poor Ruey!

John seems nice though

Thanks, Brie

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#3:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Mon Sep 25, 2006 12:56 pm
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Poor Ruey! I hope she finds some friends soon.

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#4:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Mon Sep 25, 2006 2:00 pm
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Thanks, Brie. This is really great so far!

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#5:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Mon Sep 25, 2006 4:58 pm
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Nice John.

Thanks brie

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#6:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Fri Sep 29, 2006 3:19 pm
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"I'm Ruey" said Ruey calmly, though inwardly she was hoping that this would be a new friend for her.

The girl was startled out of her shyness, "what you aren't really?"

"oh yes i am! Well it's actually Ruhannah, but thats a bit of a mouthful for everyday use."

"I'm Meghan" said the girl.

"Are you new too?" asked Ruey curiously.

"Can't you tell?" said Meghan giggling, " I feel totally out of place here."

"Oh Good! Someone else who understands!" said Ruey feelingly

"I lived in a small village all my life. I have never seen this may people before."

"Well i was at school this last few years, but i know no one here, and i hate it rather." said Ruey

"Oh me too! I dont want to give up too early, but i just want to go home" said Meghan embarassedly

"...and i feel embarassed for not having any friends and for being homesick at my age" chimed in Ruey

"exactly!"

The two girls smiled at each other.

"Do you want to come in?" asked Ruey impulsively.

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#7:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Fri Sep 29, 2006 3:53 pm
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That's good! What a relief for Ruey to find someone who feels as she does. Thanks Brie.

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#8:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Sep 29, 2006 3:58 pm
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Thanks, Brie. It's good that Ruey has met someone who feels the same.

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#9:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Fri Sep 29, 2006 5:49 pm
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Awww that's good - just the right basis for friendship!


Thanks brie.

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#10:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Fri Sep 29, 2006 8:10 pm
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kimothy wrote:

Well it's actually Ruhannah,

Bet she wishes she had that tattoo'd on her forehead - or at least on a badge or something! She must have to explain it so many times.

Thanks, Brie

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#11:  Author: LL, Location: Random bits of North London Posted: Sat Sep 30, 2006 7:31 am
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Thanks Brie I like!

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#12:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Sat Sep 30, 2006 3:17 pm
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arghhh i had just written a huge amount of this and then it just deleted!

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#13:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Sat Sep 30, 2006 3:25 pm
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Oh, brie! That's awful! I had something similar happen with Jessica, but it was only a page or two, so it wasn't too bad.

Am really enjoying this and I hope Meghan and Ruey can be good friends and help each other.

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#14:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Tue Oct 03, 2006 7:00 pm
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Ruey had locked herself in Meghans bathroom and was refusing to come out, despite Meghans pleas. The source of all this commotion had been the arrival of a parcel from switzerland for Ruey that morning, containing the dress she was to wear as bridesmaid for Len Maynards up-coming wedding.


"If you so much as look at me I will kill you!" warned Ruey

"Ruey!" choked out meghan as well as she could for giggling.

"I'm serious! Ifyou think i'm going to let you see me in pink you can think again!"

There was a muffled thump as Meghan fell, laughing into her old battered armchair.

"Oh stop being a goose! You're going to have to come out soon, You'e in my room and I am not letting you leave till i get to see you!"

"Meghann..." Ruey whined

"come on it can't be that bad..."

There was a slight creaking as the bathroom door opened to reveal ruey.

"oh... my... goodness" said Meghan weakly, "Where on earth did you get that?"

"Its awful isn't it?"

"oh, oh" Meg groaned as she fell on the floor

"Stop it you!" exclaimed Ruey as she flung a towel at her friend.

"Oy! Rue! Don't blame me.."

"I am blaming you, you made me show you it!"

"Oh you've made my day. I haven't laughed this much in ages." said Meghan wiping her eyes.

Suddenly there was a ferocious knocking on the door, Ruey turned horrified eyes on her friend and tried to bundle herself out of the room, however her many ribbons and sashes were hindering her somewhat.

Meghan was still lying on the floor in hysterics for the picture of tomboyish Ruey in the pink lace trimmed, ribbon covered meringue was too much for her.

"Oh Ruey" she moaned, before wiping her eyes and trying to sit up.

There was more loud knocks.

"I'm coming!" yelled Ruey angrily.

She glared at her friend before bundling up her many skirts to try and reach the door.

"Yes?" she glared as she opened the door.

"ummm have i got the wrong room?" he asked, looking surprised.

He was about their age, with messy hair, and a mishchievous twinkle in his eyes. His nose had never really developed past a smudge, and though he was certainly not handsome there was something about him that was definetly attractive.

He slung a guitar bag back onto his back, grinned cheekily and turned away.

"Wait!" called Ruey, forgetting she was wearing the meringue."What do you want?"

"uh.." his gaze fell to her dress. She felt her cheeks going red. "i was just looking for someone. I guess i got the wrong room"

Suddenly Meghan appeared at the door, looking rather dishevelled.

"Skip!" she cried. Before flinging herself on the man.

Last edited by kimothy on Tue Oct 03, 2006 7:42 pm; edited 1 time in total

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#15:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue Oct 03, 2006 7:05 pm
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Her brother?


Love Ruey's reaction to the dress!

Thanks brie

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#16:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Tue Oct 03, 2006 9:04 pm
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Poor Ruey. I can just imagine how much she would hate wearing the sort of dress Len and Jo would choose!

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#17:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Tue Oct 03, 2006 9:38 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I wonder who Skip is.

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#18:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Wed Oct 04, 2006 6:47 am
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Also wondering if he's her brother. Hope he's not her boyfriend if Ruey likes him too!

I sympathise over the dress - I was a bridesmaid for my cousin when I was 16 and the dresses she made us wear were absolutely vile !

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#19:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Wed Oct 04, 2006 8:05 am
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I'd have expected Len to have better taste than that!

Thanks Brie.

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#20: Re: The University Years (by Brie) (updated 3/10) Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough Posted: Wed Oct 04, 2006 9:35 am
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kimothy wrote:

for example, you're in the male halls just now..."

I did something similar on my first day of teaching, only it was in the staffroom and it involved toilets... Luckily nobody was in there at the time, and I quickly realised my mistake when I spotted the urinals!

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#21:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Fri Oct 06, 2006 5:01 pm
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"Megs! ...Wait whos that?" he turned to stare at Ruey.

Ruey wished valiantly that the floor would swallow her up.

"This is Ruey Richardson. Ruey this is my brother Skip."

"Your name is what?" he said

at the same time as she said, "Who?"

He grinned at her, "Its actually Stuart, but if you call me that I may have to kill you. Now you can't tell me that Ruey is actually your name?"

"Yup. It is, well its short for Ruhannah..."

"hmmmm well ruhannah, is there any reason why you are surrounded by a pink meringue?"

"Oh Skip its not that bad..." Meghan implored.

"Oh meg dont lie, its awful and we all know it. I don't know what Len was thinking..."

"ruey is to be a bridesmaid at her sisters wedding" explained Meghan.

"She's not my sister" said Ruey patiently.

It had taken almost an hour to explain to Meghan her family situation and she had no wish to get into it again.

Meghan took the hint, "So Skip, how come you are here, you told me you weren't coming till nearly Christmas"

"Oh Sis are you trying to get rid of me already?"

"Skip!"

"Right well if you two will excuse me, i am going to go get changed..." ruey interrupted.

Skip grinned teasingly,

"Yes i'm interested to see what you look like, i cant really see past the frills.."

Meghan hit her brother on the arm.

they were all just going into the room when a girl came flying up the stairs.

"Ruey, Ruey" she called breathlessly.

"Anne?" asked Ruey surprised. Anne lived in the room across from Ruey , but Ruey had never really talked to her before.

"Ruey what are you wearing?" asked Anne clearly confused.

"oh nevermind, i'm just getting changed out of it" said ruey embarassedly, " what do you want?" she added curiously.

"Oh right! Ruey theres a man waiting downstairs for you... I saw him when i came in and i promised i would come and get you. He's gorgeous by the way so you might want to get changed out of that... thing first."

Meghan raised her eyebrows suggestively at Ruey.

"Whats all this about Rue?"

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#22:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Fri Oct 06, 2006 5:35 pm
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I'm interested to find out who he is!
Thanks Brie.

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#23:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Fri Oct 06, 2006 6:20 pm
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kimothy wrote:

...is there any reason why you are surrounded by a pink meringue?"

Absolutely wonderful question!!!


So, is Skip to be the romantic interest or this new one?


Thanks brie.

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#24:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Fri Oct 06, 2006 6:57 pm
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Thanks, brie. The pink meringue made me giggle, too!

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#25:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Fri Oct 06, 2006 8:42 pm
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Hope it's a nice love interest, but it could be Roger or Roddy or one of the Maynards....

Or David .

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#26:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Sat Oct 07, 2006 8:54 am
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" i don't understand" called Ruey as she hurried out of the meringue.

"Ruey make sure you don't rip the dress" said Meghan warningly through the door.

"Damnit! you saw through my plan" said Ruey cheekily.

"Ruey!"

This was followed by Skips laughter.

"meghan can't you just go down and see who it is?" asked Ruey impatiently.

"No! what would you want me to say? It's not like i can get him up here... I don't even know how Skip got in?"

"Im just so amazing" said Skip

Ruey could tell he was grinning, even without being able to see him.

Ruey opened the door, now she was dressed much more casually. A pale blue skirt and a plain white blouse which flattered her much better than her previous outfit.

Skip nodded appreciatively.

"Yup! definetly much better without the meringue" he said.

"skip" said Meg exasperated.

Ruey blushed.

"Well off you go then!" exlaimed Meg, "We're all dying to know who it is..."

"Come with me then" begged Ruey.

"Go!" ordered her friend.

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#27:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Sat Oct 07, 2006 9:05 am
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Yes, do go quickly and find out; I'm dying to know, too!

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#28:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Sat Oct 07, 2006 2:58 pm
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Ditto!

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#29:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sun Oct 08, 2006 7:52 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I would love to know who the man is.

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#30:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Mon Oct 09, 2006 5:13 pm
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Sorry just a short update today- there might be more later

Ruey hurried down the stairs wondering who on earth it could be. She knew hardly any men on the campus, and the ones she did know she didn't know very well.

She looked around curiously as she got down into the reception hall of their building. But then she saw 'old Hammy' who was more gorgon than she was woman, and she realised that her mystery man had been chased out.

No one could outface Miss Hamilton. It was a widely known fact that she kept her students more tightly penned up than if they had been in the local prison.

Ruey smiled politely at the woman as she passed out the door. There was no returning smile. Not that Ruey had really expected one.

No sooner had she gone outside than she heard her name called.

She swung round. She didn't see anyone that she knew.

There was a man moving towards her. He looked vaguely familiar.

"Ruey" he repeated, "I just thought i would check in on you, and see how you were getting along."

He smiled easily, and then she realised.

It was John.

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#31:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Mon Oct 09, 2006 5:37 pm
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Thanks, Brie. It is nice of John to come and pay a visit.

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#32:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Mon Oct 09, 2006 6:29 pm
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Poor Ruey, having to go past the gorgon!

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#33:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Tue Oct 10, 2006 7:01 pm
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"John, hi" said Ruey, suddenly feeling shy.

"Well Ruhannah, how's it going?"

"don't call me that!" she exclaimed.

"Don't you like it?"

"would you?" she said laughing

"hmmm, well i think people might look at me a bit strangely if i was called Ruhannah... but i definetly like the name."

"oh so your a joker are you?" said Ruey grinning.

"I do try" he said.

"look" he said, "i'll be honest there is a real reason i came looking for you."

"oh" said Ruey, trying to keep calm

"yes, its just, well... there is a dance in a couple of weeks to celebrate the universities achievements at sports, and well i was wondering if you would like to go... with me i mean" he added hurriedly.

She smiled.

"That would be nice"

"okay. I'll see you then, then"

"okay"

"Bye Ruey"

"Bye John"

She rushed back into the building once he had gone, intent on telling Meghan her news.

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#34:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Tue Oct 10, 2006 9:04 pm
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I bet Ruey and the others really enjoyed going on dates etc once they escaped from Freudesheim. Poor Len had to get engaged five minutes after admitting to fancying Reg !

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#35:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Tue Oct 10, 2006 11:11 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I hope that they have a good time at the dance.

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#36:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Fri Oct 13, 2006 9:38 am
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"Well what happened?" asked Meghan curiously, before Ruey had even got in the door.

"Well..." said Ruey slowly.

"Well what?"

"the suspense is killing me" drawled Skip.

His sister ignored him.

"It was John."

"John?" asked meghan and skip at the same time.

"You know John, that i met in my first week."

"Oh that John" exclaimed Meg

"Oh him, of course" Skip rolled his eyes.

"Skip. Shut up"

Skip stuck his tongue out at Meg.

"oh very mature" she said sarcastically, before turning back to Ruey, "Well what did he want?"

"he wanted to ask me to some dance..."

"No!" squealed Meghan, "Thats so cool!"

Skip rolled his eyes again.

"When is it? What are you going to wear? What does he look like?"

"Girl talk overload" said Skip, clutching his head.

Ruey giggled.

"Okay its in a couple of weeks. he's very handsome- and nice and tall, with broad shoulders. And i have no idea what to wear."

Skip sank into a chair in despair, as the two girls let themselves out of the apartment to go along to Rueys room.

"We'll be back soon, we are just going to look at some clothes..." called Meghan as she closed the door.

Skip sat back, realising he probably had a long wait ahead.

half an hour later, the girls came back.

"I'm not wearing pink." said Ruey hotly as the let themselves back in.

She stopped suddenly as she heard some music.

Skip was standing facing away from them. he was playing his guitar, and singing along softly.

It was unlike anything Ruey had ever heard before. It had an extremely catchy beat to it. She strained her ears to hear what he was singing.

"Its been a hard days night, and i've been working like a dog"

"what is that?" exclaimed Ruey, "did you write it yourself?"

Skip turned around startled, and Meghan burst out laughing.

"You haven't heard that song?" said Skip sounding disbelieving

Ruey shook her head. She had never heard anything like it before.

"What about this?"

he started to strum again, and much to Rueys surprise Meghan started to sing along too.

"Hey jude, don't make it bad. take a sad song and make it better..." skip trailed off, looking at her expectantly.

ruey shook her head slowly.

"Where did you come from? Now what about this?"

"Come together. Right now, over me"

"You really need the drums for that one to come across right..." said Meghan.

"I'm sorry i have never heard of these songs. Actually i have never heard music like this at all before."

"you are pulling my legs. It is not possible that you have not heard of the beatles."

"Who?"

"john, paul, george and Ringo" said meghan exasperated.

"I'm sorry" said ruey eventually. then she turned to skip. "Will you play some more. I really, really like it. its so different from what i'm used too."

"i can do better than that," said Skip, "thats the real reason i came over Megs. To tell you that we got a gig. its just at the local pub, playing covers. but its a start right?"

meghan jumped up and hugged her brother.

"Congratulations. Skip's in a band" she explained.

"Strictly part-time at the moment though." he said sadly.

"So when is it?" asked Rey curiously, althoguh she wasn't quite sure exactly what a gig was as such.

"friday night, at the coat and arms. both of you should come."

ruey smiled at him.

"Okay" said Meghan, "We'll be there"

I hope i dont have my dates mixed up for when the beatles were around etc...

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#37:  Author: wheelchairprincess, Location: Oxfordshire, UK Posted: Fri Oct 13, 2006 10:56 am
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Just found this and read it straight through. It's good! Thank you.

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#38:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Oct 13, 2006 1:48 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I hope the gig goes well.

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#39:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Fri Oct 13, 2006 3:07 pm
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I can't decide if I like Skip or John better, though!

Thanks Brie.

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#40:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Fri Oct 13, 2006 4:22 pm
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I like Skip. He sounds cool!

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#41:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Fri Oct 13, 2006 5:51 pm
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Hard Day's Night - 1964 - was that the date you intended?



Very telling that Ruey had heard nothing of the Beatles.

Thanks brie

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#42:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Sat Oct 14, 2006 2:57 pm
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"I can't believe you hadn't heard of the beatles" exclaimed Meghan once skip had gone. "I mean i have had a crush on George forever!"

Ruey looked shocked. Although she was excited at this prospect of seeing John, she had never really thought of men in this way beofre.

"The beatles are the biggest thing to have hit the world in, well... forever actually."

Ruey was silent. She was starting to realise that there was a lot she didn't know about life.

"I guess i was quite sheltered as a kid" she said eventually.

"We lived in a small village where everyone knew everyone else, and all their business. It was a bit of a shock for me coming here too" said Meghan

"It's not quite the same thing," said Ruey wryly, "I feel like i've stepped in to a completely new life from the one i previously led."

"Yeah well change happens" said Meghan, "Look, if you ever need my help just ask, ok?"

"Thanks Meg" said Ruey, looking slightly less troubled.

"Its fine. Now are you sure you want to go tomorrow night. i'll understad if you dont."

"No i really want to go. But just don't let me do anything stupid please!"

"I'll have your back... that means i'll watch out for you" she added as she saw Rueys confused expression.

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#43:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Sat Oct 14, 2006 3:06 pm
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I think Ruey's going to have a wonderful time once she's got used to the modern world! Thanks brie.

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#44:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Sat Oct 14, 2006 4:24 pm
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Time for Ruey to have some fun!

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#45:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sat Oct 14, 2006 7:07 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I'm glad that Meghan is going to help Ruey.

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#46:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sat Oct 14, 2006 7:19 pm
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It's a different world Ruey!


Thanks brie

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#47:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Sat Oct 14, 2006 8:01 pm
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Stepping into a completely different life - I bet they all felt just like that when they got to university from the CS!

I'm really enjoying this, Brie, thank you!

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#48:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Tue Oct 17, 2006 8:53 pm
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Ruey came down the stairs self-consciously.

She had never worn clothes like this before. She stumbled in the boots she was wearing although they had only small heels. The black trousers felt strange to her. Though they looked lovely with the plain blue blouse she wore.

Meghan grinned at her. Meghan had curled her brown locks and she looked very sophisticated in the tight black skirt she wore, which was a startling contrast with her pale legs.

They were walking there, as neither of them had enough for a taxi ride there and back.

Ruey stumbled along.

"Perhaps we should have started you on flat shoes?"

Ruey just grimaced at her friend.

"Skips band had better be worth all this pain" she muttered.

meghan grinned, "oh i excpect they will be quite good, anyway it's a chance to go out right?"

Ruey grinned it would be a nice change.

They entered a small crowded bar. Ruey choked slightly on the smoke, although she was used to smoking back home, it was different here somehow.

"Ruhannah! Meggy!"

"Skip" said Meg smiling.

"Well you certainly look different" he said smiling down at ruey.

"I lost the meringue"

"so is see. Now why don't you two come sit over here, away from all the hustle." he saw them seated in a cosy booth.

"Simon over here!" he yelled over the din.

A skinny man, with an earring in one ear came over to them. His hair straggled down to the collar of his shirt.

"This is my sister Meghan, and her friend Ruey"

"Peace" said Simon, before drifting off.

"he's a bit out of it" confided Skip, "but he's the best bloody dreamer i have ever seen!"

Meghan grinned, "He's mad to be honest rue! He hasn't got a clue most of the time"

"Skip" called a dark haired man, with a bit too much stubble for Rueys liking, "who are these lovely ladies?"

"Meg, my sister, you met her at new year? and this is her friend ruey"

"Meg i didn't see you there... How have you been?"

"Fine thanks derek" said Meghan her cheeks pink.

Once the men had left she confided in ruey, "I fancied him rather when i first met him, but he never did call me." her tone was rueful.

Suddenly there was a loud crashing noise as Simon sat down at the drums. He grinned toothily at the audience, before crashing on the drums again.

He got a steady beat going. then it got faster and faster. and louder and louder. The high-hat clashed. and then a new noise was added. Derek was playing too now. A four-stringed guitar. Deep base notes twanged around the room. His fingers were flying across the strings.

The drums setttled down to a slower more settled pace. The base changed pace too as Skip walked over plugged his guitar into the amp, and loud clear music pierced the room. Skip leant into the microphone, and his deep husky tones resonated round the room

"Ooh I need your love babe
Guess you know it's true
Hope you need my love babe
Just like I need you
Hold me, love me, hold me, love me
Ain't got nothin' but love babe
Eight days a week."

Ruey rocked back and forth gently. it was the loudest music she had ever heard. her toes tapped along to the beat.

"Love you every day girl
Always on my mind
One thing I can say girl
Love you all the time
Hold me, love me, hold me, love me
Ain't got nothin' but love babe
Eight days a week"

He winked at her. Ruey grinned, and let herself be swallowed by the music.

---

#49:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Tue Oct 17, 2006 9:28 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I'm glad that Ruey is enjoying the music.

---

#50:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Fri Oct 20, 2006 5:15 am
    —
I think Ruey's going to enjoy her new found freedom, even if her boots are uncomfortable! Thanks Brie.

---

#51:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Sun Oct 29, 2006 1:04 pm
    —

Fatima wrote:

I think Ruey's going to enjoy her new found freedom, even if her boots are uncomfortable! Thanks Brie.

*agrees*

---

#52:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Sun Oct 29, 2006 7:26 pm
    —
Skip and ruey struggled along the pavement with Meg.

"i didn't realise how much she was drinking tonight" whispered Skip

Ruey didn't reply, with megs weight leaning against her.

"Oh it was so so fun tonight big brother! when can we do that again?" asked Meg heself in chirpy tones.

"Never, if you behave like that again" growled Skip.

"Skippy" whined Meg, "oooooh look at the puddle, can we go for a swim."

"no" replied ruey and Skip in unision.

"But.. but... but i cant remeber what i was going to say!" and Meg burst out laughing

Skip gritted his teeth.

Ruey stopped suddenly, almost sending skip flying.

"Skip" she said in dreading tones, " the gorgon"

"Ooooh" chimed in Meg, "wait who is the gorgon?"

they both ignored her.

"she wont be there at this time of night" said skip confidently

"Oh yes she will. Skip you dont understand, shes like our prison guard."

Ruey sounded so fearful, skip had to try not to laugh.

"Ruey i think you are a bit tipsy too"

"Oh no" said ruey sounding shocked, "i didnt drink anything"

finally an update

---

#53:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Sun Oct 29, 2006 7:31 pm
    —
Thanks, brie. That was quite funny!

---

#54:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sun Oct 29, 2006 7:52 pm
    —
Oh dear - how are they going to get past the Gorgon!


Thanks brie

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#55:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Sun Oct 29, 2006 8:26 pm
    —
I can't wait to see the meeting with the Gorgon!

Thank you brie

---

#56:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sun Oct 29, 2006 9:39 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I hope they can avoid the gorgon.

---

#57:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Sun Oct 29, 2006 11:11 pm
    —
*giggles* Is Skip in for a shock?

Thanks, Brie

---

#58:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Mon Oct 30, 2006 5:01 pm
    —
I'm also hoping that they'll meet the gorgon - it could be a most interesting meeting!

---

#59:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Mon Nov 13, 2006 4:53 pm
    —
It waswith some horror that Ruey timidly approached the big wooden door. She peered through the grimy windows in the hope of seeing Miss Hamilton.

"Skip" she called out fearfully.

"Uh huh" he mumbled, trying to open the heavy door, whilst supporting his sister.

"It.. she's there..."

"Ruey don't be so silly"

"Skip dont you understand, she'll never let us out again! we'll..." and here Ruey trailed off unsure how to continue.

"Fine" muttered Skip annoyed.

"Well your only option is to come back to my rooms, and you two can share the sofa"

Ruey, in her innocence, had recoiled slightly at the idea, but she coud see no other alternative, and it was very cold out here at this time of night.

So she just nodded slowly, looking red-faced at her feet.

She missed the strange expression that passed over his face, and when she looked up she just saw a look of impatience.

"Well, come on then! I dont know about you but i want to get back before i lose one of my toes to frostbite!"

and with that he started to walk away, dragging his comatose sister, and the awkward moment was gone.

---

#60:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Mon Nov 13, 2006 5:38 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I'm sorry that there was an awkward moment between them.

---

#61:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Mon Nov 13, 2006 5:40 pm
    —
I hope there won't be anymore awkward moments when they reach his rooms!

---

#62:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Mon Nov 13, 2006 6:01 pm
    —
She's very innocent, isn't she?

Thanks brie

---

#63:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Mon Nov 13, 2006 6:18 pm
    —
Just what kind of strange expression I wonder ...

Thanks, Brie

---

#64:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Tue Nov 14, 2006 11:41 am
    —
Oooh, chemistry?

Thank you brie

---

#65:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Fri Nov 17, 2006 3:59 pm
    —
"You don't think this is wrong do you?" said Ruey embarassedly as Skip was fumbling for his keys.

"what?" he asked distractedly.

"er.. nothing" replied ruey, red-cheeked.

He slid the door open warily.

"Sorry for the mess" was all he said however.

He left Ruey in the doorway supporting Meg, while he went in turning on a tall lamp to the right of the door. He cleared some books off of the battered sofa which took up most of the back wall. he then crossed the room and calmly dragged Meg over, and dumped her on the sofa. He disappeared again reappearing with a blanket which he covered her with.

"Well? what are you waiting for? Come in" he said impatiently.

Ruey hoped the dim lighting would hide her blushes.

She came in slowly, bashfully closing the door behind her.

The room she entered was dark and dreary, it was very small. After a moment or two, Ruey realised that it was infact npot that small it was just full of stuff. On either side of the room the walls were lined with posters and bookcases. Beside the lamp was a small piano.

"Want a tour?" asked Skip

"Sure" she replied, wondering why she felt so shy around him all of a sudden.

He led her into a tiny kitchen with a desk wedged in against one of the walls where he evidently did his work.

There were what appeared to be about three weeks worth of dishes in the sink. while on the small stove there was a pot of something Ruey could not even identify, which she resolved to stay as far away from as possible!

"through here is my room" he said, indicating a door on whihc was hung a poster advertising the concert of someone called jimi hendrix.

He opened the door to indicate a room which was not meant for a double bed but which contained one anyway. Crammed into the small amount of space reamining was a chest of drawers, and a laundry basket which was overflowing over the floor.

"You can sleep in here" said Skip

Ruey almost went purple with embarassment.

"Not with me!" exclaimed Skip, seeing her face.

ETA i forgot to put in the last few lines

---

#66:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Fri Nov 17, 2006 6:48 pm
    —
Lol! Poor Ruey !

---

#67:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Fri Nov 17, 2006 7:20 pm
    —
At least it seems Skip is a gentleman - even though he's obviously not inherited a cleaning gene!


Thanks brie

---

#68:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Nov 17, 2006 8:16 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie.

---

#69:  Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough Posted: Fri Nov 17, 2006 9:43 pm
    —

kimothy wrote:

"You can sleep in here" said Skip Ruey almost went purple with embarassment. "Not with me!" exclaimed Skip, seeing her face.

*giggles hysterically*

Excellent Brie, thank you.

---

#70:  Author: Imogen,  Posted: Sat Nov 18, 2006 12:55 am
    —
Thank you Brie, I do like Skip, he's lovely. Poor Ruey, I'd be embarassed too.

---

#71:  Author: wheelchairprincess, Location: Oxfordshire, UK Posted: Sun Nov 19, 2006 4:26 pm
    —
Poor Ruey I just want to hug her lots. And Skip is lovely.

---

#72:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Mon Nov 20, 2006 12:52 pm
    —
Poor Ruey - she really is getting an education isn't she!

Thanks, Brie

---

#73:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Wed Nov 22, 2006 3:36 pm
    —
This is so how I imagine it would have been for lots of Chaletians when they got into the big wide world! Full of things that seem so risque and that others find completely normal. Thanks Brie.

---

#74:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Sun Dec 10, 2006 7:35 pm
    —
Ruey looked and felt so mortified.

She could hardly bear to meet skips eyes, but when she did she saw that they were dancing.

"How mean! Are you laughing at me?" ruey was very much on her dignity now.

"No of course not" said skip, but he could not quite hide the twinkle in his eye.

"Now" he said as she remained silent, with a rather sullen look on her still red face, "How about telling me why you were so convinced all i wanted to do was.. take advantage of you"

Ruey remained silent for a moment or two.

"I dont know" she said, "it's embarassig to admit, but i dont have any experience of... men"

"What, were you locked away in a convent before you came here or something? This is the sixties afterall."

"No, almost as bad though- a swiss boarding school"

"really?" a frown creased his brow.

"You don't come across as one of those swanky do-gooders"

Rueys expression was one of confusion.

"Nevermind" he said

"i feel like i stick out like a sore thumb here" said Ruey, "my life was so sheltered back home, do you know the only men i ever met were doctors."

"Good-looking ones?" asked skip cheekily.

Ruey just glared at him. She couldnt really cope with this teasing.

Skip was looking at her strangely.

she put up a hand nervously to fix her hair.

he took a hold of it, and gently brushed away her hair with his other hand.

Ruey remained silent, hardly daring to breathe.

She remained utterly motionless, as his face loomed closer to hers, and she felt his breath on her face.

she was too nervous to move away, and somehow her eyes seemed locked on his.

she snapped them shut, hoping to break the spell which lay over them, but the next moment she felt his lips on hers, gently pressing.

Last edited by kimothy on Sun Dec 10, 2006 7:40 pm; edited 1 time in total

---

#75:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sun Dec 10, 2006 7:38 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. Skip is nice.

---

#76:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Sun Dec 10, 2006 8:59 pm
    —
It must be very difficult for Ruey, facing real men in the real world. I liked her comment about doctors!

---

#77:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sun Dec 10, 2006 9:24 pm
    —
Poor Ruey, yet she should have some experience - she has brothers, after all.


Thanks brie

---

#78:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Mon Dec 11, 2006 8:23 am
    —

Lesley wrote:

Poor Ruey, yet she should have some experience - she has brothers, after all.

Yes, but I hope they didn't kiss her like that

Thanks, Brie

---

#79:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Mon Dec 11, 2006 11:37 pm
    —
True - but she should at least know a little about the opposite sex - more so than someone with only sisters or an only child.

---

#80:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Tue Dec 19, 2006 8:51 pm
    —
She felt a strage muddle in her brain, she felt wonderful, with Skips arms encircling her, and her body pressed against hers, yet all her upbringing was telling her that this was wrong. Forbidden.

But how could something this nice be so wrong.

Perhaps he felt her slight hesitation, for he pulled away from her.

"Im sorry. I dont know what came over me" he stammered, "i.. i must have had a bit too much to drink.."

Ruey nodded mutely.

She wanted to reach over, and take his head in her hands, and kiss him passionately. But she couldn't do that.

She willed him to lean back in. But he didnt.

"I...i.."

but she didnt say anything else.

He looked at her, an expression in his eyes, that made her melt somewhere around her middle.

With an effort she controlled herself, not willing to be the first to give in, yet wanting to be in his arms. Wanting to feel loved.

He pulled his eyes off of hers.

"I...i'll just go to bed then" she said it quietly

he just nodded, apparantly lost deeply in thought.

her head drooped slightly as she went into the room, but she did not let herself turn around and look at him.

---

#81:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Tue Dec 19, 2006 9:55 pm
    —
Ahhhh! Young love

Thanks, Brie

---

#82:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Wed Dec 20, 2006 5:01 am
    —
Ruey's back! Thanks Brie.

It's going to be painful for her, though, trying to sort herself out and realize that it's ok to fall in love.

---

#83:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Wed Dec 20, 2006 6:00 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I hope that Skip and Ruey will still be able to get on with each other.

---

#84:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Wed Dec 20, 2006 7:55 pm
    —
That must have been very awkward for Ruey. I hope their relationship can develop so she feels comfortable with Skip.

---

#85:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Thu Dec 28, 2006 1:13 pm
    —
the next morning, was one of the most awkward ones Ruey could ever remember. Meg was hungover, and embarassed that she had passed out and had had to be carried by her own brother. Ruey could not meet Skips eyes, ad skip was almost completely silent- a drastic change from his usual exuberant self.

Meg excused herself half way through her first slice of toast leaving the other two alone in their unpleasant silence.

"Ruey" said Skip abruptly, staring deeply into his coffee cup

"Don't say anything" she said, "i..i.. need to tell you something first."

"wait" he said. he placed his hand on hers.

"i know i shouldnt have.. kissed you last night, and you probably hate me for it." once again he silenced her, ploughing on with what he had to say, "but i cant regret it, because i have wanted to do it since i first saw you in a mass if pink fluff."

ruey was silent for a moment.

"How many times did you practice that?" she asked

he looked up shocked, then he laughed ruefully.

"Several" he admitted.

she nodded.

Then she smiled at him and stood up, just as she was opening the door, she turned back and said, "I dont hate you by the way"

before she turned and left the room.

Skip was left with a look of utter confusion about him for a moment, before he had to start fighting back the smile that now wouldnt leave his lips.

Just as Ruey was about to leave his flat he called her back.

"Ruey- im not much into these things, but do you want to come to that sports achievement dance thing with me?"

she smiled shyly before nodding.

She hastily pecked him on the cheek, before hurrying away so he wouldn't see her blushes.

He had asked her considerably less romantically than john had, but she wanted to go with him so much more.

She stopped short half-way down the stairs.

John.

She had already said she would go with him.

---

#86:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Thu Dec 28, 2006 1:30 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I hope that Ruey will be able to sort things out with John.

---

#87:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Thu Dec 28, 2006 2:15 pm
    —
Oooops! Problems ahead.


Skip and Ruey were so sweet there.


Thanks brie

---

#88:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Sun Dec 31, 2006 12:35 pm
    —
Oh dear - I hope Ruey isn't going to hurt John too much

Thanks, Brie

---

#89:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Fri Jan 05, 2007 10:24 am
    —
For the rest of the morning, Ruey fretted about what to do.

she had of course already said yes to john, and she really should go back and tell Skip this...

But if she was being honest, she really wanted to go with skip.

But, she didn't know where to find John, and she could hardly stand him up on the night....

As luck would have it, fate sorted the decision for her.

As Ruey walked unseeingly along the path back to her dorm she was stopped suddenly by a pair of hands in front of her face.

"Guess who?" said the deep voice she had come to recognise as Johns.

"John?" she said

He pulled his hands away.

"How did you guess, my dear Ruhannah?"

"Well, your voice did give it away rather" said Ruey, giving a weak smile.

"Something is the matter!" exclaimed John immediately. He fell into step with her.

"No... not really" said Ruey, wondering wildly how she was going to get out of this situation.

"It's that man isn't it?" said John shrewdly.

"What man?" asked Ruey startled.

"Skip" said John raising his eyebrows, to show how little he thought of the man.

"He's studying music. He's in my year. Not of your class, darling"

"What?" exclaimed Ruey, "Not of my class? I am no better than he is, and his sister is my closest friend."

"Hush, hush! Of course" he said soothingly, "that is not what i meant at all. More that, he is a bit more on the... eh... rough side. Not a real gentleman, you know? I think we both know what i mean..." he smiled conspiratorily

"No i don't know!" said Ruey, thoroughly annoyed now, "and if you ask me at the moment, he's far more of a gentleman than you are!"

John looked shocked. Then he pulled away haughtily.

"I head rumours about you, you know. I chose to not listen to them. I didn't think you were the type of girl to sleep around." he paused, "obviously, i was wrong. Have fun with whichever man you are with at the time of the dance."

and he strode away, head held high.

---

#90:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Fri Jan 05, 2007 10:52 am
    —
If that's how John really is, I'm glad Ruey ditched him.

---

#91:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Fri Jan 05, 2007 1:25 pm
    —
Nasty man. She's better off with Skip.

---

#92:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Fri Jan 05, 2007 1:49 pm
    —
What a stupid prat!

Thanks, Brie

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#93:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Fri Jan 05, 2007 7:47 pm
    —
What rumours??? Ruey you are well out of that - what a pillock - hope we get to see his comeuppance!


Thanks Brie.

---

#94:  Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough Posted: Fri Jan 05, 2007 10:01 pm
    —
Git!

---

#95:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Tue Jan 09, 2007 9:13 pm
    —
Ruey stood, with her mouth wide open in a rather good imitation of a stranded codfish.

"You know" said a familiar voice, "You're going to catch a fly if you don't shut your mouth sometime soon."

Ruey shut her mouth with a snap.

"Ruey? You do remember me right?" asked the voice slightly tentatively.

"Oh, right of course.. Ted...TED!! what on earth are you doing here???"

Ruey dragged herself back to the present.

Ted Grantley looked at her curiously...

"Oh i'm just up here you know on holiday."

Ruey looked at her surprised.

"What? How come you're not in school?" she asked, remembering that Ted had been meant to be headgirl after the summer.

"Didn't you know?" Ted's voice had a note of sadness about it.

"I was meant to go back, but then i met Pete. He was one of Reg's doctor friends..." Her voice trailed off wearily.

"Oh... are you two.. you know?"

"No" Ted shook her head vigourously, "Well, we were, but not now. Mother is not talking to me, and Len thinks i'm insane for dropping him like that,'i mean he is a doctor' " Here ted rolled her eyes.

Ruey smiled weakly.

"why am i telling you this?" asked Ted laughing, "You probably think i'm crazy too"

"No" said Ruey slowly, before she went on to explain what had just happened.

Ted's eyes widened.

"Ruey Richardson! Two on the go at once! I never expected it of you"

"Do you think it's my fault?" asked Ruey hesitantly.

Ted jumped up at this.

"No, the man is clearly an eejit, and if you for one moment blame yourself because that man is a mysoginistic, full of himself..."

"okay" interrupted Ruey, "I think we know where this is going"

Ted grinned.

She had grown into a very elegant woman, with her hair now softly waving to her shoulders, and her dark eyes smouldered behind thick lashes. She had high cheekbones, and there was a force of character evident in her face.

Beside her Ruey, looked the young, tomboy that she was playing at going to college. Her red, brown hair pushed carelessly behind her ears, with a sprinkling of freckles covering her nose.

"Do you want to go for coffee or something?" asked Ruey impulsively, deciding that one morning of missed classes really didn't matter.

Ted smiled gratefully, "I'd love too. I feel the need to relax, you have no idea who great i feel, having finally found someone who doesn't think im barking mad!"

As they walked along Ruey turned this over in her mind, "But isn't up to you rather? I mean i can understand that your doctor might be upset, but surely its no one elses business...?"

"You'd think, wouldn't you? Of course you have not met my mother, so you wouldn't understand..."

Ruey pushed open the door of the coffee shop. Once they were sitting with steaming mugs of hot, milky coffee, Ruey turned back to Ted.

"I don't mean to be nosy, but why wouldn't your mother understand?"

"Oh" said Ted easily, "I've always been a disappointment to her, ever since i commited the heinous crime of being a girl and all! and of course you know of my criminal past."

Ruey raised her eyebrows at this.

"Three expulsions.. don't pretend you dont know!"

Ruey gave up the pretence.

"Anyways, this was the one way i could make her proud, get married young, to a handsome doctor- who has a bald patch by the way- give her lots of lovely grandchildren... you know the story. But i screwed up rather."

"He had a bald patch?" asked Ruey stunned.

"Yes! thank you so much for thinking that is weird! everyone else thought i was petty when i mentioned that!"

"Well it is weird!" exclaimed Ruey, "You are only eighteen, you can't be married to a man with a bald patch!"

"Finally! someone sane!" exclaimed Ted thankfully, as she bit into a doughnut.

A bit of a long update today.. apologies

---

#96:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Tue Jan 09, 2007 10:54 pm
    —
I love Ted's comment about Len thinking she's mad for dumping a doctor !

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#97:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue Jan 09, 2007 11:04 pm
    —
Love it! And unless the man had premature baldness that is seriously gross! Actually even if he did have...


But why did Ted have to leave School? Did her mother force her to?


Thanks Brie

---

#98:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Tue Jan 09, 2007 11:40 pm
    —

kimothy wrote:

"Well it is weird!" exclaimed Ruey, "You are only eighteen, you can't be married to a man with a bald patch!" "Finally! someone sane!" exclaimed Ted thankfully, as she bit into a doughnut.

That is the best line I have read in a drabble for a good while!

It is lovely to see Ted again, and I am really enjoying this, thank you so much Brie

---

#99:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Wed Jan 10, 2007 8:47 am
    —
Poor Ted! I'm glad she ditched him, and hope she can hang around with Ruey for a bit and meet some nice boys

Thanks Brie - and don't apologise for the length of the post - lots of drabble is good

---

#100:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Wed Jan 10, 2007 10:49 am
    —
Lovely to see some more of Ted.

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#101:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Wed Jan 10, 2007 4:01 pm
    —

Lesley wrote:

Love it! And unless the man had premature baldness that is seriously gross! Actually even if he did have... But why did Ted have to leave School? Did her mother force her to? Thanks Brie

Having married a man rather short on hair, I take umbrage at that!! He did go bald very young, and is still eminently fanciable! And what price Patrick Stewart? Sean Connery? Yul Brynner? Anthony Edwards?

Thanks Brie, it's great to see Ted again. If he was horrid, she was right to dump him, but if it was just because of his hair...

---

#102:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Wed Jan 10, 2007 5:37 pm
    —
"So what happened?" asked Ruey curiously, "i dont mind if you don't tell me of course" she added hastily.

"No, I don't mind saying. It's a bit of a relief to get it off my chest to be honest" admitted Ted.

"I'm kind of AWOL actually. I couldn't stand staying there on the platz and everything, and it wasn't really fair on Pete- me being there all the time."

"Does no one know where you are?" asked Ruey shocked.

"Well, no not exactly" admitted Ted.

Ruey choked on her coffee.

"Well i couldn't stay! You don't understand what it was like... I stayed at freudesheim before term started and everywhere i turned there was a dissapointed face looking down at me. Mrs Maynard even..." Ted stopped suddenly, going red, "I'm sorry being here i almost forgot you live there. I will shut up." and Ted hastily took a large gulp of her coffee.

"Ted! I love them and everything, they did take us in afterall. But i'm hardly blind to their faults! Especially after coming here."

Ted nodded understandingly, but she didn't seem keen to carry on the conversation.

There was an awkward silence for a few moments.

"Where are you staying Ted? I mean if you dont mind..."

Ted cut her off with a friendly grin, "Enough of this apology rubbish. I don't mind telling you anything. Although i must admit i am in a bit of a jam about the whole place to live thing.Dont worry" she continued seeing Rueys worried face, "I'm not sleeping in a doorway or anything!"

Thanks for all the lurvly comments!

---

#103:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Wed Jan 10, 2007 5:57 pm
    —
Yes, but where is she sleeping

Thanks, Brie

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#104:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Thu Jan 11, 2007 5:01 pm
    —
Poor Ted. I hope she can stay with Ruey for a while.

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#105:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Fri Jan 12, 2007 4:06 pm
    —
A shadow fell across their table, causing both girls to look up in surprise.

They looked up to see a tall man, with broad shoulders, dark, brooding eyes, and hair which fell carelessly over his brow. He had an air of extreme confidence about him, and Ruey understood why. He was without a doubt the most handsome man she had ever laid eyes on.

"Ladies!" his voice was deep, and playful, "You don't mind if i join you do you?"

Before either of them had a chance to reply, he had pulled a seat away from a nearby table, and was sitting between them.

"You beautiful, young ladies are rather a distraction for a young, medical student." He grinned, his eyes never leaving Ted's face.

Ted looked rather less than impressed by his attention.

"I'm Richard by the way." He cocked his head slightly to the side, and smiled at Ted.

"I'm Ted" said Ted finally, "and this is" but she was interrupted.

"Now,perhaps we could go out sometime, tonight maybe?" his stretched his arm out so it was across the back of Ted's chair.

Ted raised her eyebrows rather.

"I don't think so" was all she said however.

Ruey would not have been surprised if she had heard the man's jaw drop of the floor he looked so shocked.

"What?" was all he said however.

"I'm sorry" said Ted, sounding anything but, "But i have better things to do with my time, than watching you stare at your reflection in every mirror we pass."

Ruey's eyes bulged. She had never heard Ted sounding like this.

Just then, as things were threatening to get ugly, another man appeared. He was dressed casually in college sweatshirt, and was the exact opposite of richard, for Ruey doubted he had even combed his hair this morning, much less shaved.

"I'm Sorry" said the man, looking incredibly embarassed, "Rix" He glared at the man, "Leave them alone. They are just kids."

Richard glared back. "David" he threatened. But he raised himself from the chair.

"Guess our date's cancelled then!" and he winked cheekily at Ted.

Ted glared at him.

"As if i would go out with a stuck-up pig like you!" she flared. Ruey looked on shocked, wondering if Ted was going to slap him. Ted managed to restrain herself however.

Once the two men had left the coffeeshop, the two girls looked at each other, and then burst out laughing.

"So thats what college life is like!" Ted exclaimed, just as Ruey asked, "So have you always been this popular then?"

"What a pig" said Ruey, as she took a sip of her now cold coffee.

"Totally" agreed Ted, she leaned forward, "he was quite good looking though"

"Ted!" exclaimed Ruey.

"Oh Ruey don't look all shocked. You were practically salivating over him."

Ruey blushed red. "Like you were any better..." she muttered back.

Ted contemplated this, "Girls like us are the reason he has such a big head..." and she screwed up her nose. "I say we call him ugly, and be done with him!"

Another long update!! Shocking i know!

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#106:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Fri Jan 12, 2007 4:12 pm
    —
Poor Ruey, so many men, so little time!

Thanks brie.

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#107:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Fri Jan 12, 2007 4:27 pm
    —
*giggles* I now have the tune to 'That don't impress me much' going round in my head

Thanks, Brie

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#108:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Jan 12, 2007 7:45 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. That definitely was a great scene!

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#109:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Fri Jan 12, 2007 8:01 pm
    —
Do the names Rix and David mean anything? Surely they wouldn't still be medical students, would they?

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#110:  Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough Posted: Fri Jan 12, 2007 8:55 pm
    —
Thanks Brie, that was fab.


*also pondering the significance of Rix and David*

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#111:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Sun Jan 14, 2007 11:07 am
    —
Ruey was getting excited now. Although she had to admit she was rather nervous.

"Ruey!" Meg shrilled, "I cant believe you are going with Skip! My skip... I can't believe it..."

Ruey had been rather anxious about telling Meg this, but rather than be annoyed Meg appeared to be thrilled.

"We are gong shopping tomorrow, yes?" asked Meg impatiently.

"Yes. I suppose, if we must.."

"We must." insisted Meg firmly, "and what are you going to do with your hair?" she asked, tugging at one of the straggly red hairs.

"Ouchhh Meg. Oh i don't know..i'm not very good at this stuff." said Ruey, tired of looking in the mirror.

"I'll think of something" said Meg brightly, "Don't worry about it!"

"i wasnt" said Ruey calmly.

"Ruey!" giggled Meg.

"So have you found her yet?" she then asked.

"What?" asked Ruey blankly.

"Your friend, that Ted person."

"Oh right. No i havent seen her since. Maybe she went back to the platz?" asked Ruey more to herself than anything else.

"Can't you write to your folks about it?" ased Meg.

Ruey had been somewhat distracted in the last two weeks, since she had had coffee with Ted. They had left in rather a hurry, and although she had given Ted an adress to contact her at, Ted had not given her anything, and she had not heard from Ted at all.

"I don't know that thats such a good idea" admitted Ruey, she had had the distinct feeling that relations between the Maynards and Ted had not been friendly recently.

"Why not?" asked Meg curiously. Ruey liked meg, but she did not want to talk about private matters ith her. She wouldn't understand.

She hastily changed the conversation.

"what should i wear tonight?" she asked, knowing that Meg would not be able to resist helping her.

"Well" said Meg, rummaging through her closet, "I don't know. I mean it is only Skip..."

and much to Ruey's relief their previous conversation was forgotten, as Meg tried to make her look presentable, for her dinner out with Skip.

---

#112:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sun Jan 14, 2007 1:21 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I hope that Ruey will be able to get in touch with Ted.

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#113:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Sun Jan 14, 2007 1:57 pm
    —
I hope Ted's all right. Thanks Brie.

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#114:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sun Jan 14, 2007 2:31 pm
    —
Glad Meg is pleased about her brother and Ruey. Worried about Ted though....


Thanks brie.

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#115:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Mon Jan 15, 2007 8:34 am
    —
I hope Ruey has a lovely evening out with Skip

Thanks, Brie

---

#116:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Mon Jan 15, 2007 5:52 pm
    —
Ruey looked down at herself with reluctance, she was wearing a pair of heels, a black skirt which went halfway past her knee, but with a frankly indecent slit up one side, that went up quite a bit past her knee, and a pale blue knitted v-neck top.

A simple gold chain hung round her neck, with a small cross on it, was the only jewellery she wore. She did not recognise herself, For Meg had done something with her hair that made it stay together and wave gracefully.

She had been out twice with Skip now, but just very casual to local bars, frequented by the other students. Tonight Skip had told her he was taking her somewhere nice, and she had felt the need to dress accordingly.

meg surveyed her protege with pride.
"Impressive. If i do say so myself!"

Ruey grimaced at her accordingly.

A knock on the door announced Skips arrival, and as Ruey hurried to open the door, tripping in her heels, Meg settled back to watch the fun.

"Skip" said Ruey flatly, in shock at seeing him looking smart in a shirt. With his hair vaguely under control, and with no guitar swung over his shoulder.

"Flowers!" he announced, producing a lovely, little bouquet.

"Skip, you didn't have too." said Ruey, embarassing herself as she found herself blushing.

"Yes, i did, and you look lovely."

"Thanks" said Ruey smiling shyly, "You look handsome too"

"Well it makes a change, actually brushing your hair occasionally" announced Meg's voice from the corner.

Skip looked up startled, he hadn't noticed her.

Ruey shot him an apologetic look.

He grinned back at her.

"You just weren't worth the effort sis. my hair took one look at you and it wanted to run a mile!"

Ruey stifled a laugh at Meg's indignant face.

"Are you ready, Rue? Don't want to miss the booking, and have to beg to be allowed in!"

---

#117:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Mon Jan 15, 2007 6:18 pm
    —
Awww, that's lovely!


Thanks brie

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#118:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Mon Jan 15, 2007 8:13 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I loved the banter between Skip and Meg.

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#119:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Tue Jan 16, 2007 6:16 pm
    —
Ruey cursed Meg inwardly, as she saw how they were to travel to the restaurant that night. She wondered if Meg had known, and this was her perverted idea of humour.

Skip tossed her a helmet laughing, and resigned, Ruey, hiked up her skirt and climbed on behind him. She wrapped her arms tightly around his waist as he revved the engine.

They arrived, what felt like a lifetime later to Ruey, outside a beautiful little restaurant, with ivy climbing up the walls. It was on a little cobbled backstreet, and it was possibly the most charming place Ruey had seen since she arrived in England.

A cheerful, balding man greeted them as they entered the building, and led them to two big comfy chairs in front of a burning log fire.

Once they were settled with drinks and menus, Ruey turned to Skip smiling sweetly.

"This is lovely. I can't believe i have never been here before."

"There's a bar round the front, but i thought it would be nicer through here. It's a treasure chest isn't it? You would never expect to find it here, but it's here nonetheless."

"I love it already" breathed Ruey, "Isn't that mad? But as soon as i saw it, i fell in love with it."

Skip looked down at her smiling.

He took her hand in his, and they sat companionably in silence.

They were interrupted by the waiter again, who's name they found out was Jerry.

"Are you ready to order yet?" he asked pleasantly

The couple looked up startled.

"Shall i give you a few more minutes?" he asked understandingly

Ruey nodded gratefully.

"Actually," he said apologetically, "would it be alright if i got one of the other waitresses to take your order. She has just started here, and we are trainig her up."

"Of course!" said skip, "We promise not to bite... or to order anything too complicated." he added as an afterthought.

Ruey giggled.

"There had better be something nice on this menu then!" she exclaimed.

"I defy you to find something on this menu, which is not delicious." he grinned.

The two of them poured over the menu, eventually deiciding what to have.

Skip looked up with a grin, as the waitress approached them from behind Ruey.

"She looks rather nervous, poor thing." he commented.

Ruey hit him on the arm, "I'm sure she's fine" she said, since she couldn't see her.

Skipped nodded at the waitress. "We're ready to order."

"Of course" said the waitress sounding slightly flustered.

She approached the table her eyes on the little pad she held.

"What can i get you for.." and she trailed off.

Skip looked up confused, and saw Ruey with her mouth hanging open.

"Ted!" she exclaimed.

Thanks for all the comments everyone

---

#120:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue Jan 16, 2007 8:08 pm
    —
Whoops!


Still, at least Ruey will be able to speak with Ted.


Thanks brie.

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#121:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Wed Jan 17, 2007 6:56 am
    —
Hehe! I guessed it would be Ted!

Thanks Brie, I'm really enjoying this.

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#122:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Wed Jan 17, 2007 2:08 pm
    —
Lots of shiny updates to come back to! Thanks, brie.

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#123:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Wed Jan 17, 2007 2:32 pm
    —
Well, at least she's probably not sleeping under a hedge somewhere, then! Thanks Brie.

---

#124:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Wed Jan 17, 2007 5:12 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I'm glad that Ted hasn't completely disappeared.

---

#125:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Wed Jan 17, 2007 5:48 pm
    —
Skip looked rather confused.

"You know each other?" he asked.

"Yes" answered Ruey simply. She turned to Ted, "Sit down. Why are you here?"

Ted who had been silent till now, looked at Ruey angrily. "Ruey don't sound so disapproving. I can't go to university like some people."

Ruey looked surprised.

"What about your mother?"she asked tactlessly.

"My mother." repeated Ted. She looked sceptically at Skip before continuing, "My mother will have nothing more to do with me if i don't marry Pete."

Ruey looked shocked at this. She had always got the impression that Ted didn't like her mother, but surely she couldn't be that cruel.

"Ted! You can't be serious. But how..."

Ted, however, saw the questioning look on Jerry's face at the other side of the room.

"Look Ruey, can we talk about this some other time. I need to take your order now."

Ruey looked like she was going to protest, but eventually she gave in.

"I'll have the onion soup" she said resignedly.

"The souffle for me",joined in Skip, "and we are both having the sirloin, one rare and one medium. wine, Ruey?"

"Yes please" said Ruey whose mind was whirling.

"and a bottle of the dry white." he extended his hand, "Skip Matheson, by the way. Nice to meet you."

"Ted Grantley." smiled Ted, but the smile didn't quite reach her eyes.

Ten minutes later Jerry returned.
"So you are a friend of young theodoras? She's a dear girl, and we are lucky to have her here now. Have you known her long?" He kept them engaged politely in conversation for a few minutes before leading them through to a beautiful, old dining room.

The beams ran across the low ceiling, and the lights were dim, with softly lit brass lanterns in the centre of each of the tables. They found themselves at a small table near the back of the room, in front of a charming fire.

Ruey, smiled as they sat down at the table, and Jerry poured them each some wine and water.

Skip grinned at her, "You looked awfully shocked to see her here. How do you know her?"

Ruey told him about that morning two weeks ago, carefully omitting the parts about john, and the two medical students.

"Well, there is no point in worrying about it now. She clearly needs the job, and it wouldn't be fair of you to jeapordise it for her." He looked at her carefully.

She nodded her agreement, but he could tell she had her mind on other things than their dinner together.

ruey finally dragged herself back, when a young girl arrived, with a big tray bearing their steaming starters.

She tripped, and sloshed soup over the side of the bowl, and a little onto Skips souffle. The souffle visibly sank, and the girl looked as though she was about to cry.

Ruey bounded out of her seat. Carefully noting that no other staff were present in the room at the time. She took the tray off the girl, carefully laying it on the tray stand nearby.

She then grinned at her reassuringly.

"Don't worry." she assured her, "No one saw that, apart from us"

"and our lips are sealed" promised Skip.

The girl smiled at them weakly.

"Are you sure i can't take them back from you, i'll get you new starters."

"No dont be silly" smiled Ruey, "I couldn't have ate a whole bowl of soup anyway. This way i'll have room for my steak."

"But the souffle.." she continued weakly.

"Not at all. i'm sure it shall taste just as nice flat!" was Skips contribution.

The girl looking relieved thanked them hurriedly, before making her exit, her cheeks burning brightly.

"Poor girl, she looks scared out of her wits." commented Skip.

"Surely we are not that imposing?" laughed Ruey.

"No i expect its her chefs, that she is worried about! I've always heard they have a mean temper."

"She's just a kid though." protested Ruey, "surely she is too young to be working.

"She looks about fifteen or sixteen, thats hardly too young. Now hows your soup?"

"Lovely! You were right about the delicious menu. How about your souffle?"

"Awful" admitted Skip, grimacing, "its fairly swimming in onion soup."

"Oh skip!" exlcaimed Ruey.

"Don't you worry about me. I'll still manage it i'm sure. You havent tasted my mams cooking- this is a taste of heaven compared!"

Ruey giggled, before settling in to eat her soup in earnest, and Skip kept her so engaged in his light, humourous conversation that she almost forgot about Ted until they were leaving, and Ruey caught sight of Ted behind the bar, polishing glasses.

---

#126:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Wed Jan 17, 2007 6:18 pm
    —
Skip is so nice!

Thanks brie.

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#127:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Wed Jan 17, 2007 6:48 pm
    —
Skip is lovely - hope Ruey and Ted have a chance to chat.

Nasty Mrs Grantley


Thanks Brie.

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#128:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Wed Jan 17, 2007 9:26 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I'm glad they helped the girl out.

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#129:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Wed Jan 17, 2007 10:24 pm
    —
Poor Ted - her mother never seemed very interested in her.

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#130:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Thu Jan 18, 2007 4:53 pm
    —
Ruey looked at Ted, then at Skip wondering wether now was the right time to talk to her.

Skip shook his head slowly.

"You know she is working here now. You wont lose track of her. Come back another time when she isnt so busy."

Ruey looked at him for a long time.

Then impulsively she hugged him.

"What was that for?" he asked, but he was grinning.

"For understanding." she replied simply, "I didn't ruin your evening did i, cos i really enjoyed it."

She stared up at him, her eyes suddenly like saucers, as she worried that he hadn't realised she enjoyed it.

"Well i'm glad. I loved spending this evening with you Ruhannah Richardson."

"Well i enjoyed your company too, Stuart Matheson." Replied ruey wickedly.

He punched her lightly in the arm.

"If you were anyone else, i would have to thrash you now!"

"Just as well its little old me then isnt it" said Ruey wickedly.

He lifted his hand as if to hit her, and Ruey surprised both herself and him by reaching in and quickly brushing her lips against his.

It was just the quickest of kisses. But it was enough.

"Go and say bye to her then" instructed Skip, "then we can get out of here!"

"Hussling me about now? Are you that tired of my company already?" said Ruey, pretending to look offended.

"Don't be silly! I just want to show you some of the sights"

"Sights, in this grimy city?"

"Yes it is rather surprising, but the loveliest places are often the least well known." , he smiled down at her fondly.

"You mean you have the whole city mapped out in your head?" she asked.

"Something like that."

He then turned to see the young girl who had served them earlier, coming towards them with their coats.

"Thank you" he said politely, rescuing them from her arms.

"Oh and this is for you" he remembered, digging some change out of his pocket.

"You were a lovely waitress, all you need is a bit of confidence in yourself, and you'll do marvellously."

The girl blushed, but thanked him heartily.

Ruey had taken this opportunity to go say goodbye to Ted.

She walked up to the bar, and calmly leaned against it.

"Ted, how come you never called?" she asked, trying to keep the hurt out of her voice.

"Oh ruey! I wanted to of course. You're the first friendly face i'd seen in a long time.But i couldn't. I mean i am a waitress, i didn't think you would want to know me." Ted faltered, for the first time since Ruey had met her, looking unsure of herself.

"Ted" said Ruey,and she couldn't help but feel a bit angry, "first of all, you have nothing to be ashamed of, and i dont want you to ever think it. and secondly, i'm your friend, i'm not here to judge, im here to support."

Ted smiled, and Ruey could see the relief in her eyes. "Thanks Ruey, that means a lot to me" she said almost tearfully. Then the old Ted returned, "So whats with your rugged friend? Or should i say more than friend?" she teased.

But Ruey just smiled. "We'll see"

"Don't think i didn't see you smooching!" she whispered.

"Ted!" exclaimed Ruey embarassedly.

"Ahh i knew there was something" she laughed, "so thats who you dumped the eejit for?" she asked

However, Skip came over to the bar now, and handed Ruey her coat.

"Thanks for a lovely evening Miss Grantley" he said

"Its Ted" said Ted, "and it was my pleasure"

She smiled at Ruey.

Skip leaned in, "You wouldn't by any chance be interested in rock n' roll, would you?"

"Skip!" exclaimed ruey, hitting him on the arm.

"Owww!" he exclaimed, "and i was just asking." He dug into his coat pocket for a moment, "If you are at all interested, this band are playing next week. they are tipped to be the next big thing." He handed her a rather battered flyer.

"Thanks" said ted confusedly.

But Ruey was staring at the flier, "You got another gig!" she exclaimed excitedly, "wait! why didn't you tell me?"

"I didn't want Meghan finding out" he laughed.

Ruey joined in wth his laughter, "I doubt she would make such an idiot of herself again."

"Well perhaps not. But now we had best be going, before we are chased out! Thanks again. Nice to meet you Ted."

"and you" replied Ted smiling.

"Bye Ted" added ruey.

and the pair left, Leaving Ted watching, half happily, half ruefully, as the young couple crossed the road holding hands, and then stopped, and kissed in front of Skips bike.

Last edited by kimothy on Thu Jan 18, 2007 5:29 pm; edited 1 time in total

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#131:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Thu Jan 18, 2007 5:21 pm
    —
Poor Ted - but at Ruey was able to speak with her.


Thanks brie.

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#132:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Fri Jan 19, 2007 5:26 am
    —
I hope we see lots more of Ted, as I always liked her a lot.

Thanks Brie.

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#133:  Author: Nell, Location: exiled from the big smoke Posted: Fri Jan 19, 2007 11:02 am
    —
Poor Ted but yay for Ruey finding her again and for her and Skip!

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#134:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Fri Jan 19, 2007 12:40 pm
    —
I do like Skip!

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#135:  Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough Posted: Mon Jan 22, 2007 8:29 pm
    —
Hurrah! Lots of lovely updates which I have missed, and so been forced to read in one go. What a shame!


Thanks Brie, I am really enjoying this.

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#136:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Tue Jan 23, 2007 5:45 pm
    —
Thanks for all the lovely comments

"Ruey" grumbled Meg, "sit still!"

Ruey who had for the last five minutes been fidgeting on the floor, sat bolt upright.

"Is this really necessary?" asked Ruey, for at least the fourth time in ten minutes.

"Yes" said Meg, taking out her annoyance in Rueys hair which she tugged rather harder than necessary.

"Owww" yelped Ruey.

"SIT STILL!" bellowed Meg.

there was silence for a moment.

Just as Meghan was starting to wonder whether she had offended Ruey, she heard a snort.

"Ruey?" she asked suspiciously.

"This just reminds me of the arguments we used to have with mike and roddy" she choked out.

"Roddy is your brother, right?" asked Meg

"uhuh, he's younger, and Mikes a couple of years younger again. He's one of the Maynards."

"You used to argue with them?"

"all the time" chuckled Ruey. "We had some fun trying to get them to church on a sunday, i can tell you."

Meg grinned.

"Tah- da! Stunning i tell you."

"Oh thank goodness! can i move? I have cramp in my right leg."

"Oh stop moaning. It was worth it. Look in the mirror."

Ruey wobbled to her feet, exagerratingly stretching her legs out.

"Idiot" said Meg feelingly

Ruey walked over to the mirror, leaving Meg to tidy up the pile of curlers.

She stared at herslf speechlessly.

Meg came over to join her.

"Like it?" she asked

"Is that me?" Ruey reached up to touch the glass.

"Of course it's you! Now do you approve?"

"Thanks Meg" said Ruey softly, "i've never looked like this before."

"Ah well i'm glad you like it. Im going to have to skimp over my own make-up now"

"Sorry" said Ruey

"well if you hadn't moved so much we might have finished earlier" teased meg.

Ruey just nodded, enraptured by the change in her appearance.

She was wearing a plain dress, of a beautiful wine colour. It had a low neckline, and little thin straps. It could not have ben simpler, but there was a definete air of elegance about it.

Her red-brown hair was loose, and softly curling, she wore hardly a trace of make-up, but the slight darkening around her eyes and the little smudge of lipstick made her look older, and more graceful.

Meg, who was going with one of the other students in her literature class, was wearing a black dress, with a little red belt round the waist, and red shoes. Her hair was more tightly curled than Rueys, and her lips redder. She looked, thought Ruey rather wistfully, fabulous.

"Wait" she exclaimed suddenly, before running off.

She returned with a little camera, and proceeded to get several lovely pictures of the two of them.

"Our first dance!" she exclaimed excitedly.

Ruey smiled, she was really looking forward to this now, even if she was wearing the dreaded heels!

There was a knock on the door, and Meg's face lit up.

"I wonder which of us that is for?" she laughed.

She rushed to the door, and opened it beaming widely.

"Eddie!" she exclaimed, "come in. This is ruey" and she waved vaguely in Rueys direction,"i'll just be one moment. Oh damn! where did i put my wrap?"

Ruey calmly fished it out from under the armchair for her.

"Oh Ruey! Thank you" exclaimed Meg, who had been starting to look flustered.

"Oh wait!" as Eddie rose for them to go, "Do you want us to wait Rue? I dont suppose Skip shall be too long"

"Don't be silly!" laughed Ruey, "You two go ahead. Skip shan't be long. I'll see you there. Nice to meet you Eddie" she said to Eddie's back as the two hurried out the room.

Twenty minutes later, Ruey was still sitting there.

---

#137:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Tue Jan 23, 2007 5:50 pm
    —
Where's Skip got to then?!

Thanks, Brie

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#138:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Tue Jan 23, 2007 7:34 pm
    —
I hope he's got a good excuse for being late .

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#139:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue Jan 23, 2007 7:46 pm
    —
Oh and she looks so beautiful too!


Hope Skip has a good excuse.
Thanks brie

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#140:  Author: Nell, Location: exiled from the big smoke Posted: Wed Jan 24, 2007 9:26 am
    —
Hope nothing's happened to him...

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#141:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Wed Jan 24, 2007 1:33 pm
    —
I hope Skip turns up soon.

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#142:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Wed Jan 24, 2007 8:54 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I hope that Skip will turn up soon.

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#143:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Fri Jan 26, 2007 4:02 am
    —
I hope that Skip's not deliberately standing her up and that he shows up soon.
Thanks Brie.

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#144:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Tue Jan 30, 2007 6:37 pm
    —
There was a knocking on the door.

ruey toyed with the idea of not answering it, but the need to hit Skip with something was too much for her.

"Yes" she said angrily as she opened the door.

"Oh? Ted! do come in" she said as she realised who it actually was.

"Ruey!" exclaimed Ted surprised."You look lovely! Whats the occasion?"

"I cant look that lovely" said Ruey, fighting back the tears, which she hated with a passion.

"Oh Ruey! whats wrong?" exclaimed Ted, putting aside her own woes for the moment.

"I was just meant to be going to a dance tonight. With skip, you know? and he.. he stood me up"

"oh Ruey!" she exclaimed sympathetically, and perhaps her own bitterness with men at the moment prompted her next suggestion.

"well you can still go! dont let the p***k ruin your evening!"

Ruey looked unsure.

"Go! Honestly, you will enjoy yourself!"

---

#145:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue Jan 30, 2007 7:34 pm
    —
Perhaps he's had an accident or something? Surely she should check first?


Thanks brie

---

#146:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Tue Jan 30, 2007 9:49 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I wonder what Ruey will decide to do.

---

#147:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Wed Jan 31, 2007 3:04 pm
    —
Even if Ruey doesn't want to find out, I'd still like to know what's happened to Skip!

Thanks Brie.

---

#148:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Tue Feb 06, 2007 2:35 pm
    —
"Ruey" said an apologetic voice from the open doorway.

"Stuart Matheson" said Ruey angrily.

"Ruey! Don't call me that..."

"You're an hour late. An hour! Skip, so i'll call you what i bloody like!"

"Ruey, i'm sorry, okay."

"Thats it? your sorry... is that all you have to say skip?"

"No. no it's not!" Skip said. He looked at her pleadingly.
"Look, you don't know how much i want this to work out... i mean, i really like you Ruey."

Ruey looked at him, her quick temper starting to fade.

"Why were you so late?" was all she said though.

Ted chose this moment to walk out of the bathroom.

"You've arived." she stated to Skip, "Well, i'll be off then..."

and she started to leave.

"You dont need to go Ted." said Ruey

"Yes i do." said ted firmly. She hugged her friend and exited hastily, wondering how long her friends red-headed temper would last.

"Well?" said ruey, once Ted had left.
She was no longer angry, merely curious now.

"Come on, we'd better leave now, or we'll miss the whole thing." said Skip hurriedly.

"What?" said Ruey confused, "Skip, where were you?" her voice was older now, more insistant.

Skip tugged at his collar, "I...well...I..."

"yes?"

"I...kind of, well, i kind of, forgot"

He looked at her worriedly.

She remained silent.

"It's not because it wasn't important to me, it was! it's just i was writing this new song, and you know how it is! you just get drawn in..."

Ruey opened her mouth to speak. But slowly closed it again.

"I can't believe you" she said eventually.

He nodded. "Want to hear it?" he asked hesitantly

"No!" she exclaimed. "No, Skip, i dont want to hear it. I want to go to this dance, but thats not seeming like a possibility at the moment."

"I brought you this" said Skip, and pulled, a rather worse for wear white corsage out of his suit pocket. He pinned it onto her dress awkwardly.

"I still want to go." he said softly, "Now, will you do me the honour, of accompanying me?"

Sorry there hasnt been an update in so long... i have writers block, and exams, not a good combination...

---

#149:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Tue Feb 06, 2007 6:49 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I hope that your exams go well. I'm glad that Skip turned up in the end, even if he was late.

---

#150:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue Feb 06, 2007 7:00 pm
    —
Hmmm, not sure whether he deserves it - if he wants a relationship he's got to consider her before anything else - even if that means interrupting his music!


Thanks for the update, Brie.

---

#151:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Wed Feb 07, 2007 3:40 pm
    —
Hmm, I'm also feeling that was a bit of a feeble excuse. Good luck with the exams, Brie.

---

#152:  Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow Posted: Mon Feb 12, 2007 11:41 am
    —
Ruey bit her lip for a moment wondering wether to go or not.

On the one hand she really wanted to, but on the other she wasn't quite ready to forgive Skip yet.

"Ruey, please" said Skip, breaking into her thoughts.

"Ok" she agreed. But somehow she wasnt looking as forward to the dance as she had been.

When they finally arrived it was to find the dancing well underway.

"I'll get us drinks" said Skip automatically, and disappeared into the crowd leaving Ruey alone.

There was a truly dreadful, jazz-esque, band playing, and whilst there were lots of people dancing in the middle of the room there were also crowds of people chattering around the walls.

Ruey looked aroud for Meg but couldnt spot her anywhere. However she did see a crowd of girls she recognised- girls who were on her junior lacrosse team.

She made her way over too them, only to find that in the centre of the crowd was someone she really didnt want to see.

It was that jerk from the coffee shop, the really gorgeous one, who was also very arrogant, and who thought he was gods gift.

She was just standing there looking at him, or perhaps glaring at him, she wasnt very good at hiding her feelings, when she was approached by another man.

He was looking at her strangely, and then he glanced at the other girls, who were all crowding round, and embarassing themselves as they tried to catch the Jerks attention. He looked at her questionningly.

She grinned at him suddenly.

""I have two brothers, I'm used to that kind of behaviour whenever they want anything. Flattery doesn't work for me."
she said, deciding not to mention his good looks, but only his sleazy, cheaply flattering behaviour.

he laughed.

"i'll have to remember not to say anything nice to you then", he said

she smiled at him, he seemed quite impressed by her lack of interest in the Jerk.

"I'm Ruey" she said, aware of the surprise this would generate.

"David", he stared at her and she could see he was wondering if she was joking, "Is that really your name?"

"It's short for Ruhannah."

He raised his eyebrows at this, and she grinned at him, she always enjoyed the shock her name gave to people.

Just then Skip arrived with their drinks.

A little update- thanks for all the comments

---

#153:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Mon Feb 12, 2007 2:34 pm
    —
Well, it seemed that Skip was so nice, but then again perhaps he's not. I'm glad Ruey went to the dance and hope she and David get on well.

Thanks Brie, it's nice to see more of this.

---

#154:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Mon Feb 12, 2007 4:25 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. It's nice to see Ruey meeting David.

---

#155:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Mon Feb 12, 2007 5:21 pm
    —
Has anyone ever met a Ruhannah? I was never sure where EBD got the name from, and until I read Joey and Co I'd assumed that Ruey was a nickname for Ruth.

Thanks Brie .

---

#156:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Mon Feb 12, 2007 6:28 pm
    —
Glad Ruey has met David - wonder what Skip will think?

Thanks brie

---

#157:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Tue Feb 13, 2007 4:19 pm
    —
"Ruey , here you go. I thought i'd lost you there" he smiled down at her, before casually placing his arm around her shoulders.

David's face fell slightly, but then he grinned at the man.

"Have i met you before?" he asked, then he remembered, "you in a band?" he asked.

Skip's face lit up. "Yes. We played at the local pub a few weeks ago."

"Ahh yes, you were called?"

"The fruits"

"Of course" said David grinning, "Im David by the way."

"Skip Matheson" said Skip extending his free hand. "We are playing there again in two weeks. You should come. I just wrote some great new songs."

"Sure. I'll try and come" promised David.

Just then they were interrupted, by the Jerk of all people.

"David, you coming? Me and jeanette here, are going to clear out. We are all going back to my place. Any chance of a lift?"

Ruey raised her eyebrows, they knew each other?

"Sure" said David slowly.

Once the Jerk had left, he rolled his eyes at Ruey and Skip.

"My cousin... unfortunately" he explained ruefully. "I'm usually left to clear up his messes!"

"Well i'll see you around then" said Skip, "Make sure you come to our gig"

"Bye" said David, somewhat reluctantly.

As soon as he had turned around Skip pulled ruey close to him, and whispered in her ear.

"Im really sorry" before kissing her on the lips. She felt his tongue in her mouth, and his hands moving down her back.

She never saw David turn around and glance back at them.

further update-age! having to use two names is getting far too confusing!! my 2nd last exam tomorrow...

---

#158:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Tue Feb 13, 2007 4:56 pm
    —
Thanks Brie.

I'm still not sure what I think about Skip, though.

---

#159:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Tue Feb 13, 2007 4:58 pm
    —
Good luck with the exam .

---

#160:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Tue Feb 13, 2007 5:31 pm
    —
Good luck for the exam, brie.

I'm not too sure about Skip, either...

---

#161:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue Feb 13, 2007 6:28 pm
    —
Hmmm, Skip has just gone down in my estimation.


Thanks Brie.

---

#162:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Tue Feb 13, 2007 9:49 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. It was interesting to see David's reaction.

I am probably being very thick, but I'm very confused why Skip has gone down in other people's estimation.

---

#163:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue Feb 13, 2007 10:16 pm
    —

Chair wrote:

Thanks, Brie. It was interesting to see David's reaction. I am probably being very thick, but I'm very confused why Skip has gone down in other people's estimation.

He's turns up hours late to a function that he knew was very important with possibly the lamest excuse in existence.

On discovering Reuy speaking with another man he deliberately 'lays claim' to her, not allowing her to make up her own mind.

He then seems to go way over the top with the full kiss and hands down her back - remember she is very sheltered and I'm sure hasn't gone that far before - certainly not in public.

---

#164:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Wed Feb 14, 2007 10:42 am
    —
"Oh no you dont!" exclaimed Meg.

"Oh bother you Meghan!" said Ruey annoyed.

"Well Ruey, you couldnt not take it with you, your.. Len would have been in a right flap if you did!"

Ruey glared at the bundled up meringue Meghan had found under her bed.

"But Meg... just look at it!" said Ruey exasperated.

Meg sighed, they had had this argument so many times.

"You should be happy. I would die to go to switzerland!" she said, wisely changing the subject.

"Yes, well it will be nice to see them all again. Especially roger and roddy" she admitted.

Then her face fell, "But when they see me in that dress...."

"Stop moaning!" said Meg crisply, "You are going to a wedding in the snowy alps, and you are being re-united with your friends and family. What more do you want? And don't you dare say a pair of trousers!"

Ruey grinned at this.

"And you promise you will go around and see Ted?" she asked anxiously.

"Yes, yes! Of course i will. I'll even take Skip if you want- though he does make even me look tactful" she added as an afterthought.

"Just try and persuade her one last time ok?" pressed Ruey, "She'll regret it if she doesnt go, her and Len were always really close friends"

Her face clouded as she remembered the letter she had received from Len last week.

Dear Ruey,

I just wanted to make sure you were still coming! Oh i know you are, but i am turning into the most awful worrywart these days! I expect i'm driving Con and Margot mad- not to mention Mamma. Though I think Mamma is worse than me if at all possible! Oh and dont forget your dress. I do apologise for those by the way. They were mamma and Anna's idea, and i didnt have the heart to say no to them.
Ok, i have to admit Ruey, there is something i really wanted to ask you. It would mean an awful lot to me. Con mentioned that you had been seeing Ted. I, well i, behaved awfully to her this summer, and there is no excuse for me. I was just so caught up in my love for Reg. But i really, really want her to be at my wedding. Her and Ros were my closest friends- they were meant to make my second pair after con and margot. Please just ask her to consider it.

Len

thanks for the comments everyone, and how do you know Skip might not turn into the love of her life??

---

#165:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Wed Feb 14, 2007 1:26 pm
    —
Glad Len can see she acted wrongly, but maybe she could have contacted Ted herself?

Thanks, brie.

---

#166:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Wed Feb 14, 2007 1:48 pm
    —
I can imagine Ted not wanting to read a letter that Len sent her. As for Skip, how can he compete with Russells and Bettanys?!

Thanks Brie.

---

#167:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Wed Feb 14, 2007 5:00 pm
    —
Poor Ruey - it's really awkward when someone expects you to be a go-between like that.

---

#168:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Wed Feb 14, 2007 5:03 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I wonder if Ruey will take the dress.

Thanks, Lesley for explaining everything to me. I was feeling very stupid yesterday!

---

#169:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Wed Feb 14, 2007 5:32 pm
    —
Just to say that Ted has pretty much cut herself off from/ been cut off from her family and friends. Len wouldn't have had an adress to write to Ted at

and as always thanks for the beautiful comments

---

#170:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Wed Feb 14, 2007 5:43 pm
    —

brie wrote:

thanks for the comments everyone, and how do you know Skip might not turn into the love of her life??

Perhaps he will - but that doesn't mean he's not been acting a complete jerk.


Poor Ruey - forced to wear a ghastly dress and try to intercede for Len - if she cared that much perhaps she should have flown across to speak to Ted herself.

Thanks brie

---

#171:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Thu Feb 15, 2007 1:34 pm
    —
Ruey's jaw dropped as she saw the quiet triplet waiting at the station for her.

"Con?" she asked shocked

"Yup its me!" laughed Con, "What do you think? Will Mamma eat me?"

Ruey nodded at her mutely, "Its lovely Con. Its so short!"

"I know. I felt it was time to start moving with the times."

"I really like it" said Ruey sincerely, as she admired Cons short, stylishly
cut, black locks.

"You never know, it might inspire Mamma to lose her earphones" suggested Con wickedly.

Ruey giggled.

"I cant even imagine Aunt Joey without them" she admitted.

"Oh she used to have a bob, and said she would never grow out her hair"
informed Con

"Oh theres the train!" she exclaimed suddenly, "I must say these dresses are an awful pain to carry about with you- i'd rather be loaded down with my hockey stick and school trunk any day i can tell you"

Ruey grinned at Con,

"Have you ever even got the train to school?" she pointed out cheekily.

"Thats hardly the point ruey.." said Con laughing.

"No of course not..."

The two of them clambered onto the train, and were lucky to get a compartment to themselves.

"We'll need it in a few minutes" pointed out Con, as she took out a magazine.

"Well if you will insist on having so many brothers and cousins..." said Ruey

Con looked outraged.

"Your own Roddy will be there." she exclaimed

"I know! I cant wait!" and Ruey hugged herself with glee.

Con giggled.

She put down her magazine. "We are getting near i think" she said, "Whats the bet they wont even notice my hair."

"I noticed it" pointed out Ruey, "Surely they are no blinder than me?"

"True. But they are boys... Oh my!" she exclaimed as the slowed down at the station.

Ruey waved frantically out of the window at them.

"How is there so many?" she trailed off shocked.

"Stand by to repel borders!" exclaimed Con, as she moved her stuff, to stake her claim of the corner seat.

some more.....

---

#172:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Thu Feb 15, 2007 2:32 pm
    —
Yay for Con, getting her hair cut! I can imagine her looking gorgeous with a short bob!

Thanks Brie.

---

#173:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Thu Feb 15, 2007 5:07 pm
    —
I bet Con's hair is lovely. Jo will have a fit, though!

---

#174:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Thu Feb 15, 2007 5:20 pm
    —
I like her comment about Joey's earphones .

---

#175:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Thu Feb 15, 2007 6:55 pm
    —
How many boys can there be then?


Thanks brie.

---

#176:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Fri Feb 16, 2007 10:56 am
    —
Steven Maynard, was a young man now, with the smallest trace of stubble round his chin and a stocky frame. Charles and Mike and Roddy all towered over him, but he had a prescence about him, that made even the rebellious Mike respect him.

At the moment he was towing geoff, who was famous throughout their clan as lacking in any sort of common sense, and he at least didnt look as though being responsible for everyones school stuff was as easy as Con was making out.

He took the third corner seat and Jackie Bettany who had met them at the station had taken the fourth.

Steve made sure geoff and felix were settled before quelling Charles and Mike who had looked as though they were going to start fighting at any moment. Kevin and Kester, were a quiet pair, and they had settled themselves without much fuss.

Ruey, however, noticed none of this as she smothered her brother in hugs.

"Ruey! Gerroff" he muttered angrily.

Ruey pouted but condescended to release him.

Once there was some semblance of silence though, Con suddenly giggled.

"Ruey! I told you they wouldn't notice!" she exclaimed.

Ruey stared. "Oh neither they did! What a blind lot you are!" she exclaimed, then she saw Jackie Bettany.

"Hi" she said suddenly embarassed, "I'm Ruey Richardson, Roddy's sister." she smiled

"Jackie" he said smiling at her discomfort, as she realised she had insulted this complete stranger.

"Oh of course!" said Con "How stupid of me., you wont have met. Ruey this is my cousin Jackie, Maeves brother. And that quiet pair are Kevin and Kester, brothers of young Ailie Russell."

"Now, since all introductions have been made, come here geoff, and tell me how was your first term?" Con smiled warmly at her youngest brother, who was a mere seven years old, and who had given his seventeen year old brother, who had been in charge of him, several scares that day.

Ruey was secretly relieved that Jackie Bettany was there though, for it took some of the responsibility off of her and Con, who were no longer the oldest.

He was the exact opposite of Maeve though, not that she had known Maeve that well, but she had always seemed to be a scatter-brained, loud girl, whereas Jackie seemed much more poised, and serious, and quiet.

She saw Steve visibly relax now that he was no longer the oldest, and she felt a fleeting moment of sympathy for him that he was expected to be in charge of all his younger siblings, and then asked to take on his young cousins this year as well.

It was a full ten minutes later, that Mike remembered Ruey and Cons conversation. Despite being only twelve, he was a very tall young lad, and only Charles and Jackie were taller than him. He had a very strong chin, and messy hair, that was slightly too long. His eyes twinkled in a way that always reminded Ruey of her Uncle Jack. He had grown up as the middle child in a long family, and had always craved for attention. He was not overly academic, and had, as far as Ruey could tell, always resorted to mischief as a way to get his parents attention.

"Ruey" he asked suddenly, startling Felix who he had been playing cards with, "what were you saying about us being blind?"

The other boys looked up curiously as they remembered.

Con started laughing again.

"Don't laugh at us Con" said Felix seriously

"Dont be silly poppet" was all Con said however.

"Yup, blind as bats" agreed Ruey solemnly

She was rewarded by a poke in her side from Roddy.

"Ruey" begged Geoff, his eyes widening as he appealed to her.

Ruey softened, "Ok, come here Geoff, and i'll whisper it to you! But you cant tell the others ok?"

Geoff clambered over eagerly, whilst the other boys looked distinctly annoyed.

She whispered it in Geoffs ear, roughly pushing away her brother as he tried to listen in.

"Ughh" said Geoff when he had heard, turning to stare at Con, "Boring, icky girl stuff" he pronounced.

Ruey spluttered, and Con who had already been trying hard not to laugh, almost turned purple.

"You are all idiots, you know" said Charles quietly, from behind the book he was reading, "Its only her hair they are talking about." and with that
he calmly returned to Treasure Island.

With one accord, everyone turned to stare at Con.

"Chas. I think you are right" said Steve at last "It is a bit different"

"Of course i'm right" stated Charles.

"How about lunch?" suggested Jackie Bettany from his corner.

Sorry this is just a bit, so you know how old everyone is exactly, hopefully the actual plot will coninue soon...

---

#177:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Feb 16, 2007 5:16 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. It's nice to see everyone together.

---

#178:  Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough Posted: Fri Feb 16, 2007 7:35 pm
    —

brie wrote:

"You are all idiots, you know" said Charles quietly, from behind the book he was reading, "Its only her hair they are talking about." and with that he calmly returned to Treasure Island.

Nice one Charles!

Thanks for the massive update!

---

#179:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Fri Feb 16, 2007 10:34 pm
    —
They do have a lot of relations, don't they?!

---

#180:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Sat Feb 17, 2007 3:17 am
    —
It's nice to see them all together like that. Thanks Brie.

---

#181:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Sun Feb 18, 2007 6:39 pm
    —
They finally arrived at freudesheim at almost nineteen oclock.

The lights were twinkling in the front windows, and even though it looked really homey, Ruey wondered what going back would be like.

She needn't have worried, Len ran out the door to greet them, throwing herself at her triplet.

"Con! Your hair!" she exclaimed.

"Do you like it?" asked Con shy once more, and looking as though she was starting to regret her decision.

"I love it! It suits you so well."

"Thanks Len."

Ruey grinned, seeing Cons relief.

She looked up at the door, and saw Roger standing there. She went to hug him, but he had a strange look on his face, as though he was confused about something.

She wondered if she had imagined it, the next moment though, for when he turned to her, it was a look of extreme happiness.

"Ruey" he said, and then hugged her.

"Its mad!" He whispered to her, "They have so many relatives, and i dont know who hardly anyone is."

"At least you have a head start on me" she whispered back, "I've only just arrived."

"I arrived yesterday" he pointed out, "and you are a chalet girl, you'll fit right in"

"Shut up" was her witty reply, "now go say hello to your brother"

She rolled her eyes as her brothers, reunited after several months apart,
solemly shook hands. Boys could be so silly, why did the always have to apear so macho, she wondered.

That evening, Ruey was starting to realise what Roger had meant, for if the Maynard clan were not big enough, they were also opening their house to the entire Russell clan, and a large portion of the Bettanys.

Ruey was talking to Len, and they were sitting on the bottom stair of the staircase, since there was really no where else for them to go, in the cramped house, when the front door opened.

She looked up in complete surprise at the people who entered. Well, not so much the people, as one person.

There was a tall broadshouldered man with a beard, and a silvery haired woman, who looked even smaller when standing beside the man, and there were also three little boys, but these were not the people she was looking at. For, the last person to come through the door, was exceptionally good looking, and looked extremely confident.

Even as Len jumped up with a cry of "Peggy"

Ruey was thinking "The jerk! What on earth is he doing here?"

Then without realising it she smiled slightly.

"If the jerk was here, then perhaps, his cousin would be too?" she thought.

Although she didnt really want to see him, she conceded,otherwise she might be forced to spend time with the Jerk too.

Hopefully she could avoid them both, afterall it was a large house and there were lots of people staying here.

Thanks for all the comments

---

#182:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sun Feb 18, 2007 8:40 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. In my pea-sized brain - and that is an exaggeration - I hadn't managed to work out that Brie would bump into Rix and David.

---

#183:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sun Feb 18, 2007 8:44 pm
    —
Of course - poor Rix - a jerk!


Thanks brie.

---

#184:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Sun Feb 18, 2007 9:23 pm
    —
All those relations were enough to confuse anyone!

---

#185:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Mon Feb 19, 2007 3:19 pm
    —
I'd forgotten that Ruey hadn't discovered who David and Rix are yet!

---

#186:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Mon Feb 19, 2007 5:20 pm
    —
Thanks, brie. All those relations would be a bit much at the best of times!

---

#187:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Tue Feb 20, 2007 5:30 pm
    —
Rix Bettany, was a very different young man when he was away from all of his friends, Ruey realised as she watched him across the room, from where she was curled up in the corner.

He teased and played with his younger brothers and cousins, and his arrogance seemed to have disapeared.

He made no attempts, to talk to her, or flirt with her, and on the few occasions they bumped into each other he was polite, if slightly uninterested.

She had not expected to be seduced by him, but his change in manner intrigued her, and as she watched him whirling geoff maynard through the air, she wondered who the real Rix Bettany was.

David, had not appeared yet, or at least she hadnt seen him. That was somewhat a relief she felt, as she had found out from Con that he must have been David Russell, Lady Russells eldest child. Like many ex-chaletians she felt somewhat in awe of this woman, although she had only met her for the first time a few days ago.

Rix left the room a few minutes later, and about fifteen minutes after that Ruey left too, as she got completely bored with the book she had been trying to read.

For the duration of her stay, she had been relegated to a small room at the back of the house, because of the sheer number of people Joey had insisted on taking in.

She went up the back stairs, beside the kitchen, to her room and just as she was reaching the top of the stairs she heard voices. Normally she would have continued to walk, but she soon realised that one of the voices was that of Rix, and she had no desire to see him.

So she settled to hide on the stairs until he went past.

"Well Rix" said the other voice, "What have i missed?"

"The usual family nonsense" snorted Rix

"Several trips down memory lane?"

"Several?!? more than that, David i can assure you, even Len looked as though she wanted to strangle Aunt Joey when she started talking about the Tirol again."

"Its always been about the Chalet school, hasnt it?" commented the voice that Ruey realised must belong to David Russell, "But why do they think we would be interested in stories about a school we didnt go to, and that we have heard a hundred times!"
Rix laughed.

"So, have you shocked the Aunts, with your ungentlemanly ways yet?" asked David conversationally.

"I am a perfect gentleman! And the only girls here are chalet girls, and dont think i havent remembered our pact!"

David laughed.

"Mum, is going to try and pair us of with one of them, i know it. She had a go at trying to get me together with Vi lucy last summer."

"Well the jokes on you there David. Vi couldnt have been less interested in you if she tried."

"It was mutual" said David laughing, "Anyway, she wasnt interested in you either, and dont think i didn't see the way you looked at her!"

"I didn't" objected Rix, "And like i said, once a chalet girl, always a chalet girl. They aren't my type, and i could never give aunt Joey and auntie Madge the satisfaction of having that particular dream of theirs realised."

"Okay, okay, No chaletians for either of us." said David, "Now did you say i actually have to share a room with you?" he asked

"Oh yeah. Aunt Joey has shoved us up at the back here, where we can't make trouble i suppose"

Their voices trailed away and Ruey realised they must have entered one of the numerous rooms.

once again thanks for all the lovely comments... they help to keep me motivated so they are always very welcome!!!

---

#188:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Tue Feb 20, 2007 5:33 pm
    —
So presumably David hasn't any idea that Ruey will be there either. (Sorry, I'm very slow on the uptake!)

Thanks Brie.

---

#189:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue Feb 20, 2007 5:35 pm
    —
Hmmm, well ask I think Ruey fancies David something rotten I feel she will be disappointed about the 'no chaletians' pledge.


Thanks brie.

---

#190:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Tue Feb 20, 2007 7:00 pm
    —
I think Ruey'll be disappointed too, but I don't really blame David and Rix for their attitude!

---

#191:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Tue Feb 20, 2007 7:17 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. It's interesting to see what Rix is like when he's at home.

---

#192:  Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough Posted: Thu Mar 08, 2007 10:21 pm
    —
Any chance of some more soon?

---

#193:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Sat Mar 10, 2007 6:42 pm
    —

Elle wrote:

Any chance of some more soon?

well since you asked so nicely...

Ruey slid into her room with an odd expression on her face.

Rix, hadn't changed it would seem. But it was David's comments that troubled her more.

Despite the strangeness of starting university, Ruey had never really thought of being a chaletian as a disadvantage.

But now she saw that, the chalet girls were a species of the past.

Their morals were right perhaps but they hadnt advanced with the world, and the modern world was going to leave them behind.

She thought of Skip, back in England, and the way he kissed her and touched her. Sometimes she felt it was right, and sometimes she felt it was wrong. Her instincts seemed to run away with her when she was with him sometimes, and she had no previous experiences of such matters, but something, deep down, told her she couldnt tell her Aunt Joey about him.

Ruey cut through her disjointed thoughts and tried to get herself to focus.
Somehow seeing David- a figure from her other life in England- had thrown her and she was finding it hard to concentrate.

She sat on the edge of the bed with scant regard for the scathing words she would have received in her previous school life, and wondered despairingly why she felt so absurdly jelly-like all of a sudden.

---

#194:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sat Mar 10, 2007 9:25 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. It's interesting to see Ruey's thoughts.

---

#195:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Sat Mar 10, 2007 10:25 pm
    —
It is really weird when someone from one area of your life turns up in another area of your life!

It's a shame she feels she can't talk to anyone - maybe she could discuss how she feels with Len or Con? Or maybe Daisy, better?

---

#196:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Mon Mar 12, 2007 2:28 pm
    —
I hope she finds David is nice; I'm still not sure about Skip any more.

Good to see more of this Brie.

---

#197:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Tue Mar 13, 2007 4:16 pm
    —
Lovely to see more of this, brie. I hope Ruey can find someone to talk to about how she's feeling.

---

#198:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Wed Mar 14, 2007 7:34 pm
    —
Ruey woke early the next morning, an unusual thing for her.

She glanced out the window at the school, it must be having an effect on me again, she thought.

She decided to go to the bathroom now, and go for a quick shower, so she didnt have to wait for ages when everyone else started getting up.

She rubbed her eyes wearily, and sighing deeply got out of bed, slipped on her dressing gown and made her way to the door, bleary-eyed, she forgot her usual ritual of brushing her hair and just made for the bathroom.

She swung open the door before uttering a sqwuak of dismay and scurrying back to her room, where red faced she lay on her bed breathing deeply.

David. Naked. In the shower.

Her hopes of staying quietly out of the way had been shattered, in one hideously, hideously, hideously embarassing moment.

She wondered if she just hid in her room for the rest of their holiday if any one would notice?

Just as she was planning strategies for starving herself and conserving vital water supplies, the gong for fruhstuck shook the house, and her grumbling stomach told her that these were not options she would enjoy.

Resigning herself to hiding behind some of her taller relatives she slowly opened the door and peered out.

Seeing that the dim corridor was empty she slid out of the door and straight into Rix Bettanys arms.

Pulling herself away, her cheeks once again red she stumbled down the stairs, only greatful that it hadnt been worse and been david.

She didnt stop to think why rix had been outside her room, only concentrating on finding someone to talk to who would keep david away.

As she went into the crowded kitchen she let out her second startled shriek of the morning.

---

#199:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Wed Mar 14, 2007 8:06 pm
    —
Oh dear, poor Ruey!

David really needs to learn to lock the bathroom door .

---

#200:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Wed Mar 14, 2007 9:04 pm
    —
Poor Ruey, hope she gets over her embarrassment.

Hmmm, David....naked....







Thanks brie

---

#201:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Wed Mar 14, 2007 10:18 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I wonder what the 2nd shriek was for.

---

#202:  Author: ibarhis, Location: Dunstable Posted: Wed Mar 14, 2007 10:19 pm
    —
My guess is that Skip is there....

---

#203:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Thu Mar 15, 2007 3:39 pm
    —
Poor Ruey! How embarrassing! I'm sure she'll recover, though!

---

#204:  Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough Posted: Tue Mar 20, 2007 9:38 pm
    —

brie wrote:

As she went into the crowded kitchen she let out her second startled shriek of the morning.

Jack cooking the breakfast naked?

---

#205:  Author: ibarhis, Location: Dunstable Posted: Tue Mar 20, 2007 9:53 pm
    —
I laughed out loud... What a ... picture!

---

#206:  Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough Posted: Tue Mar 27, 2007 12:03 pm
    —
Any chance of some more soon?


Please?

---

#207:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Wed Mar 28, 2007 4:13 pm
    —
Whomever else Ruey had expected to see standing in the kitchen here in switzerland, she had not expected it to be Ted.

"Ted" she squealed, calmly ignoring the looks of bemusement from her brothers. Not that Roger was paying her much attention with Con also present in the room.

Ted grinned at Ruey.

"I thought..." and then she trailed off, not sure how much of her life Ted would want her to spread about the general Maynard clan et al.

"How are you? How.."

Once again she trailed off.

For once perceptive, Con Maynard slid over.

"Ruey why dont you show Ted up to a splashery and she can freshen up."

Con flashed them a cheeky grin, which threatened them with much gossip-gathering later, but it provided them with some relief for the moment.

As soon as they were out of the room, Ruey rounded on her friend.

"What? Why? How? When?"

"If you dont shut up you are going to start sprouting question marks!"

"If you dont start answering you are going to be..."

"Going to be what?" teased Ted

"Dead. Dead Ted" said Ruey dramatically.

Ted threw back her hair and laughed at her friend.

Ruey glared at her.

They were interrupted though by Rix and David coming through the hallway.

Rix's eyes were immediately drawn to Ted, and her beautiful, laughing grey eyes, although he did briefly wonder why that Richardson girl, with the strange name had gone scarlet.

Just as David opened his mouth to say something, and Ruey apprehensively saw his lips open as though in slow motion.

Rix breezed in, "Hey, now dont tell me you are a long lost relative, because i know we dont have that good genes!"

Ted opened her mouth, and then stared.

"Have we met before?" then her eyes widened in shock, "Your that pervert from the coffee shop!" she exclaimed.

Rix looked at her blankly.

"Oh sorry!" she said sweetly, "Do you chat up so many girls that you forget them all, or do you just try and blank out all the ones that reject you?"

---

#208:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Wed Mar 28, 2007 4:16 pm
    —
Good one, Ted!

It's nice to see Ted show up, but at the same time I'm vaguely disappointed to think Ruey hadn't discovered something more shocking!

Thanks Brie.

---

#209:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Wed Mar 28, 2007 8:12 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I loved Ted's comeback to Rix!

---

#210:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Wed Mar 28, 2007 9:00 pm
    —
Nice one Ted.

---

#211:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks Posted: Thu Mar 29, 2007 3:00 pm
    —
Excellent response Ted

---

#212:  Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough Posted: Thu Mar 29, 2007 8:35 pm
    —

brie wrote:

"Have we met before?" then her eyes widened in shock, "Your that pervert from the coffee shop!" she exclaimed. Rix looked at her blankly. "Oh sorry!" she said sweetly, "Do you chat up so many girls that you forget them all, or do you just try and blank out all the ones that reject you?"

Brilliant!

---

#213:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Thu May 10, 2007 5:22 pm
    —
Finally, finally an update!!!

"Ted, I'll take you upstairs" said Ruey, before grabbing Ted's arm and practically dragging her up behind her.

"Wow, Ruey stop!" exclaimed Ted, rubbing her arm, "And why are you going all red?" Ted's eyes widened in shock. "Ruhannah Richardson! What have you been doing with yourself?"

"Stop being an idiot" muttered Ruey.

Once they got to the top of the stairs, Ted calmly sat down on the top step. "I'm not moving till you tell me whats been happening? That boy was fairly drooling over you, and you look as though you went down the stairs naked by accident, you are blushing so much!"

At the word 'naked' Ruey shuddered.

"Oh Ted it was awful. I'm such a fool!"

Just then before Ted could decipher this remark, they heard Len calling.

"Ted?" they could hear the disbelief ion her voice.

"You did the right thing" said Ruey smiling, and glad to change the subject, she patted her lightly on the arm before pushing her out of the room, towards one of her closest friends.

"Oh Ted" and much to her own embarassment, and Teds, Len started crying. "I'm so scared", she whispered, "and I need you and Ros here for me, and oh, im so sorry Ted, your one of my closest friends."

Ruey, looked at the girls now standing across the hallway, and was glad Ted had finally decided to come.

"Excuse me" she heard behind her, before a soft tap on her shoulder. Ruey jumped, for it had felt almost as though a shock had gone through her body.

"Can we talk?"

It was David. Of course.

"May we?" said Ruey automatically, "And no we may not."

If only her cheeks would stop burning.

---

#214:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Thu May 10, 2007 8:21 pm
    —
I love the way Ruey automatically corrected his English! And poor Len - she seems to have an awful case of pre-wedding nerves .

---

#215:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Fri May 11, 2007 12:03 pm
    —
I hope that's all it is; poor Len.

Nice to see this back again, thanks Brie.

---

#216:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri May 11, 2007 4:09 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I hope that it is just pre-wedding nerves.

---

#217:  Author: ness, Location: LANCS,ENGLAND Posted: Sat May 12, 2007 10:29 am
    —
Great to see this back again.

Thanks Brie

---

#218:  Author: La Petite Em, Location: Cheltenham Posted: Sat May 12, 2007 6:42 pm
    —
Oooh I do so like this- but Ruey really should just stick with Skip. Long hair, musical, really nice.... what more can you ask for??? haha

---

#219:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Sun May 13, 2007 9:21 am
    —
David looked at her strangely.

"May we?" he repeated, "Do you know how many years I have had to hear that without even caring?" he asked.

Ruey concentrated on the wall just past him.

"Yeah?" she asked, trying to sound as if she didn't care about a word he said. "ever been told not to act like a spineless jellyfish when all you want to do is cry?" she asked cryptically, before turning around and going back into her room.

Ruey sat down on her bed, and stared unseeingly out, all this weekend had done so far, was reinforce the fact that she didn't belong.

She wasn't a member of this society, this place, and though she didn't want to think it, Rix and Davids comments had hurt her, turning her vague feelings of not fitting in at University into something concrete, and real.

She was alone in this world, she realised, being back here all of a sudden, it reminded her, reminded her far too much of the fact that she had no parents.

She had seen the way Roger had been looking at Con, she knew how deeply Len loved Reg, even if she was nervous just now, but who did she, Ruey have? No one.

She knew, as she had known deep down from the start, that Skip was not the one for her, he was good fun, but they didn't care about each other enough for it to be real.

Maybe that didn't exist for her? It probably didn't. She was strange afterall, not fitting in anywhere, and destined to be alone.

In the distance, back in reality, Ruey heard the faint squeak of springs as someone sat down on the bed beside her.

"Want to talk?"


Sorry, this isn't a very happy post, but Ruey seemed to get over her Fathers death very quickly, and just accept that the Maynards were her family, I don't think that would really have been the case. Anyway thanks for all the comments.

---

#220:  Author: bethany, Location: Liverpool (mostly) Posted: Sun May 13, 2007 9:30 am
    —
Aww poor Ruey, I want to go and give her a hug.

---

#221:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Sun May 13, 2007 11:32 am
    —
I always felt sorry for Ruey when her dad died - I know that he wasn't much of a dad, but she didn't even get anything like the support that Jo Scott got when her parents were missing or Jane Carew got when her mum was involved in a car crash.

---

#222:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sun May 13, 2007 11:33 am
    —
Wonder if that's David just come in? Or maybe Ted?


Thanks Brie.

---

#223:  Author: La Petite Em, Location: Cheltenham Posted: Sun May 13, 2007 11:39 am
    —
David!!
Thanks Brie

---

#224:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Sun May 20, 2007 8:29 pm
    —
Ruey turned round, aware of her red, puffy eyes, and her tear-stained cheeks.

Her lip wobbled as she tried to stop from crying out loud.

Unable to look her companion in the eye, she concentrated on a spot on the bed between them.

She felt embarassed to have been caught like this, normally she was an extremely unemotional, and down to earth person.

She glanced up, and saw that embarassed look on David's face, that males tended to have about them when girls became over-emotional and teary.

She gulped.

"I'm sorry" she whispered, almost inaudibly.

He shook his head.

"No, why should you be sorry?"

She had a feeling that comment wasn't really directed at her. David had a faraway look in his eyes, as if he was thinking of something else, something from his past.

She scrubbed her eyes fiercely with her hand.

"It just sometimes gets the better of me, you know?"

She looked into his eyes, her dark eyes piercing into his.

He sat up, as if startled.

"What does?" he asked eventually, dragging his thoughts away from her eyes.

There was a silence.

"Not belonging" she whispered, dropping her gaze.

She felt so ungrateful, even just saying it, after all the Maynards had done for her.

Surprising them both, David caught her hand in his.

"I know how you feel" was all he said, though.

But Ruey saw that he really seemed to understood, and for that she felt true gratitude.

The two of them sat together for some minutes, in a companionable silence.

Without realising it David stroked Rueys fingers gently.

They were soon disturbed by the yells of Mike Maynard, demanding if they were all coming down for breakfast sometime this morning.

Startled Ruey and David jumped apart. Ruey felt her cheeks burning.

David had jumped so far he was practically out of the door already, and with some incoherent mumbling he hastily made his exit.

---

#225:  Author: Elbee, Location: Surrey Posted: Sun May 20, 2007 8:35 pm
    —
What a lovely, sweet scene!
Thanks Brie.

---

#226:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Sun May 20, 2007 8:40 pm
    —
That was very sweet.

---

#227:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sun May 20, 2007 9:17 pm
    —
Awwww, and how sad that David should feel that too.


Thanks Brie.

---

#228:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Mon May 21, 2007 10:06 am
    —
Ruey hid in a corner of the large room, nibbling on a slice of toast, and waited for her cheeks to stop burning.

As she concentrated on trying to disapear into the wall, she was unaware of the looks she was receiving.

A quiet, prying look from David, searching her face for something. Friendly, yet curious glances from Con and Len. A hostile, openly confused look from Rix. Ted too, laid gently concerned eyes on Ruey.

At the end of breakfast, before anyone could ask them to help, Con, Len and Ted hurried up to Ruey.

Ted had looked a bit surprised to be followed by the triplets, but she supposed they were close to Ruey, and Len had never given Ted a reason to doubt her- well apart fom one, but they had put that behind them now.

"Come on" she had said to the others, "Con's in with me just now, so we'll go up to my room. We might get some peace up there."

Her tone showed that even she, even-tempered as she was, was getting a bit annoyed by all the people everywhere.

Ruey looked surprised, not realising that the girls wanted to talk about her.

"I'm a bit tired" she said feebly, "I think i'll just go up to my own room for a bit."

Len and Con exchanged glances.

"C'mon. You aren't going to fob us off like that!" exclaimed Con, grabbing Ruey's arm.

Ruey glanced at Ted, but she just shrugged. She couldn't stop two determined triplets.

Once the four of them were eventually settled in Len's sunny room, Con tackled Ruey, in the way she tackled most things.

Straight to the point.

"So whats going on then?" she asked, coyly raising an eyebrow.

---

#229:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Mon May 21, 2007 10:26 am
    —
I hate it when people ask that!

---

#230:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Mon May 21, 2007 5:44 pm
    —
Well done Con - it needed to be asked.


Thanks Brie.

---

#231:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Mon May 21, 2007 6:28 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. That was a lovely scene between Brie and David. I'm sorry that Len and Con insisted on joining the conversation.

---

#232:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Tue May 22, 2007 10:55 am
    —
"What?" asked Ruey, suddenly realising the question was directed at her.

"Don't play that game with me. David is smitten, and from that far off look in your eyes im pretty sure you are too."

Len nodded. "It's in your eyes" said Len, who's own eyes fairly glittered when she was with Reg.

"I... I don't know what you are talking about?" stammered Ruey, she looked pleadingly at Ted.

Ted eventually took sympathy with her, "It's true, she's already got a boyfriend."

This did not serve to improve matters however.

Ruey, who had alread been feeling guilty about her feelings when she was with Skip, did not need this reminder.

Con looked at Ruey coldly.

"I would appreciate it if you didn't lead him on like this then." she said, with a note of ice in her voice.

Ted went red, realising things had only been made worse by her.

Len looked at Con strangely, but she knew Con was very attached to their grave cousin. She had always looked up to him, and he had always looked out for her when they were younger, stopping Margot, from what could almost have been bullying, when he was around.

They both had similarites in their personalities, and despite the age difference when they had been together they had empathised with each other, as the forgotten children, fated to remain in the background.

"I'm not leading him on" said Ruey quietly, "and I don't want to be with Skip anymore, but i'm in Switzerland how can I tell him that just now? That doesn't mean me and David are.. I mean.. nothings going to happen there okay. You don't need to worry."

Without realising it Ruey looked down at her hand as she spoke, remembering Davids soft touch on her fingers.

They sat silently for a few moments, distinctly aware of Rueys discomfort. But also aware that they could not help her with it.

Ted sat silently, just wanting to hug her friend, but feeling that she would just be pushed away now.

Con had gone fairly pink, ad eventually she raised her head shyly,"Ruey... can I talk to you? Alone."

Ted looked up curiously. Len looked knowing, and Ruey just looked worried.

Con took Rueys hand and led her out of the room. The two sat in a roomy window seat at the endof the hallway.

"I'm sorry about what I said about you. I know your not like that. I just.. me and David are close. We don't see each other much, but I guess i'm like.. like his adoring little sister or something."

"It's ok. I understand. I don't know what I would do if I thought someone was going to hurt Roger or Roddy." she grinned briefly, "I think I would be a lot less composed than that anyway!"

Con didn't laugh though she just blushed.

"Con" said Ruey eventually, "I... I want them to be happy though."

Con looked up, and the look in her eyes was almost scared.

"I'm scared of getting hurt too though" she said, "All through Univeristy it just ended up with me getting hurt."

Ruey nodded, remembering John.

"But, Ruey, I..I've never felt like this before."

The look in Con's eyes was so serious that Ruey didn't doubt her. It was such a change from the dreamy, teasing Con of normal.

"Why did you want to talk to me Con?" asked Ruey.

Con opened her mouth slowly, unsure whether to speak, "Roger" she said. Then she turned away, sure she was commiting some heinous act by falling for her friends brother.

"I've seen the way he looks at you, and if you really think you can return those feelings I know you would both be a lot happier."

Con turned to Ruey disbelieving.

She flung her arms around her, not sure whether she was more relieved that Ruey didn't mind, or because Ruey actually thought Roger might really like her.

Ruey smiled, Con would be happy now, but what about her? David and her weren't together.. they couldn't be. When did she get to be happy?

---

#233:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Tue May 22, 2007 11:49 am
    —
Hope Con and Roger will get together now - and that Ruey will finish with Skip when she gets back to uni.

---

#234:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Tue May 22, 2007 2:46 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. It was nice to see the conversation between Con and Ruey.

---

#235:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Tue May 22, 2007 3:28 pm
    —
Thanks Brie.

---

#236:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue May 22, 2007 5:56 pm
    —
Con was rather out of order with her initial remarks - and the way she said them - pleased she redeemed herself.

Thanks Brie.

---

#237:  Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough Posted: Tue May 22, 2007 7:59 pm
    —
Poor Ruey. I feel so very sorry for her.

---

#238:  Author: La Petite Em, Location: Cheltenham Posted: Tue May 22, 2007 9:04 pm
    —
I'm so intrigued, thanks Brie!

---

#239:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Thu Jun 07, 2007 12:03 pm
    —
David sat watching Ruey giggling hysterically as she was 'caught' by Geoff Maynard, and was made to be 'it'.

He watched her, a mere child in some ways, tearing around the garden with his young cousins. Ruey chased after Cecil Maynard- determined to tag her. Carelessly Mike Maynard barged into Ruey sprawling her on the ground.

David was out of his seat in a flash, the book he had been pretending to read, forgotten on the ground.

"Ruey are you alright? Mike" he shouted annoyed, "Be a bit more careful why don't you? You're going to hurt someone."

"David, I'm fine" protested Ruey, "Mike didn't mean it. It was an accident."

David nodded, what was wrong with him?

"Right, okay" he said, "Mike just be a bit more careful alright? Sorry I lost my temper there. It must be the heat or something..." he muttered.

Ruey looked at him strangely, rubbed her elbow where she had fallen, and turned back to the game she had been playing.

Con rolled her eyes at Len, but Len just looked back at her pointedly, and Con started to blush.

"Lets get back to this game" said Ruey, but she seemed slightly shaken up.

David picked up his book, and stormed back into the house- he was annoyed at himself for being such a fool.

Rix followed him in. "She not appreciate your knight-in-shining-armour act then?" he asked.

But David ignored him.

"I thought we agreed on no Chaletians" he said, continuing to taunt his cousin. "And certainly none, that were so immersed in Maynard tradition, and were practically family."

David turned around angrily. "Don't take this out on me. Just because Ted Grantley would rather look at a slug than you, is no reason to make yourself even more unpleasant."

"Like I care about her. I wouldn't run out after her, just because she had slipped on the grass."

David looked at Rix with a glint in his eye. "She went to the Chalet School you know. She's a good girl. Not your type at all."

"My kind of girl is good-looking, and she certainly fits that bill." Rix continued arrogantly, "She is just intimadated by me, and who wouldn't be? Look at me! Afterall, how many girlfriends have I had? How many have you had? They all want me, why would they even look at you? The only girls you ever get are the ones after your money."

Her reeled back here, for David had punched him in the face.

---

#240:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Thu Jun 07, 2007 12:59 pm
    —
Rix is being rather obnoxious!

---

#241:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Thu Jun 07, 2007 1:07 pm
    —
I'm so glad David punched him, because that's exactly what I felt like doing!

---

#242:  Author: Sal, Location: Walsall / Aberystwyth Posted: Thu Jun 07, 2007 4:48 pm
    —

Alison H wrote:

I'm so glad David punched him, because that's exactly what I felt like doing!

Yep me too, thanks Brie

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#243:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Thu Jun 07, 2007 5:10 pm
    —
Rix definitely deserved that!


Thanks Brie.

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#244:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Thu Jun 07, 2007 6:37 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I am echoing Lesley's comment.

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#245:  Author: La Petite Em, Location: Cheltenham Posted: Thu Jun 07, 2007 8:35 pm
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And again here!
Thank-you

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#246:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Fri Jun 08, 2007 3:37 am
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Good for David. Rix is appallingly arrogant.

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#247:  Author: Fiona Mc, Location: Bendigo, Australia Posted: Wed Jun 13, 2007 1:42 am
    —
Have just sat down and read this in one sitting. Really, realy enjoyed it. Thanks for it all and can't wait for the next update

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#248:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2007 5:21 pm
    —
"Chalet school girl... Practically family...Not interested... Idiot, idiot, idiot." he muttered to himself, pacing up and down the room he was being forced to share with Rix.

Rix sat staring out of the window, pointedly ignoring his cousin. Finally he stood up, the black eye he was sporting nothing in comparsion to his hurt pride. Finally, he could be silent no more.

"Yes you're an idiot. But for heaven's sake just go ask her out and give me some peace!" He went back to staring out of the window.

"When did you change?" David asked quietly, "Once you were my friend. Now your just a b****rd."

He left the room then, leaving his cousin staring after him.

Even as he left the house he could see her, he had hoped to get away from her, not walk into her.

Ruey was sitting on a bench, just within sight of freudesheim. Her hair lay knotted across her shoulders shaken out from the game of Tag earlier. Grass stains adorned her once cream blouse, and there was a long tear down one of her stockings. She was so annoyed with herself. There was David just trying to be nice and she had scared him away. He was probably angry with her. How could she like someone so much when she didn't even know them. It just wasn't possible. David was... well who was David? All she knew was that he was so different from any other man she knew. She could see in his eyes that he cared.

"Ruey"

Ruey looked up, there was David. How had he found her? She had tried so hard to go away somewhere private to think.

"What are you doing here?" she asked.

He looked worried.

"Walking. I can go away if you want?" he asked, smiling nervously.

"No" said Ruey, "No, sit. There's room for two."

He sat, making sure he didn't sit too close.

"I'm fine by the way" said Ruey, striving to make conversation.

She held up her grazed elbow.

"Just a small war injury."

He smiled, moving his own hand so it was on her arm, he felt the graze gently.

"Does it hurt?" he asked softly.

Ruey shook her head. "It just stings."

He leaned over and kissed her elbow really gently.

Ruey held her breath, aware of the mish-mash of emotions exploding inside of her.

He looked up at her, taking her hand in his. She saw the nervousness in his eyes, and felt the slight shaking of his body.

"Ruey" he said eventually, unable to keep looking in her eyes, "When we get back to England..umm... Could I maybe take you out for dinner or something, sometime?

Thanks for all the comments everyone, please keep them coming

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#249:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2007 5:26 pm
    —
Well done David.


Thanks Brie.

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#250:  Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2007 6:59 pm
    —
Awww.... so sweet.

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#251:  Author: Rob, Location: Currently in a rainstorm Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2007 7:12 pm
    —
Thanks Brie!

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#252:  Author: ness, Location: LANCS,ENGLAND Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2007 7:25 pm
    —
That was lovely, Thanks Brie

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#253:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2007 8:32 pm
    —
That was very sweet.

Rix's black eye is going to look great on Len and Reg's wedding photos !

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#254:  Author: Fiona Mc, Location: Bendigo, Australia Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2007 8:39 pm
    —

Alison H wrote:

That was very sweet. Rix's black eye is going to look great on Len and Reg's wedding photos !

He could always say he got beaten up for the sympathy vote or a bit of makeup wouldn't go astray?!

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#255:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2007 9:06 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I hope that Ruey says yes.

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#256:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2007 8:04 am
    —
That was lovely! Thanks Brie.

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#257:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2007 9:48 am
    —
Penultimate post, and it sure did seem to take a long time to get here!!!


Ruey looked at David surprised. Every part of her body was screaming yes. But into her brain came a picture of a man with hair that was slightly too long, and a guitar slung over his back.

She sat there, just looking at David for what seemed like hours before finally she shook her head.

She jumped up from the bench, and ran away, determined that he wouldn't see the tears that were already falling thickly onto her cheeks.

She ran into the house and up the stairs, finally throwing herself onto her bed, and weeping for what couldn't be.

David sat numb on the bench.

It was all his own stupid fault. How could he have thought... no there was no use thinking about it now. Rix was right. No girl would ever like him. He had lived in his cousins shadow for too long, getting Rix's leftovers- no girl had ever liked him just for himself. Why would they?

Thank goodness he could go home soon, back to medicine. Being a doctor was the only thing he had ever wanted,and he was actually good at it. But now it seemed to pale in significance. He knew now without a shadow of a doubt, as he felt his heart shredding, that Ruey had been the girl for him. But it was not to be. He was not supposed to be happy.

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#258:  Author: Lexi, Location: Liverpool Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2007 9:51 am
    —
Oh no! *hugs David*

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#259:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2007 10:06 am
    —
Oh poor David. Ruey could have tried to let him down gently!

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#260:  Author: ibarhis, Location: Dunstable Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2007 10:35 am
    —

Alison H wrote:

Oh poor David. Ruey could have tried to let him down gently!

Poor David! Poor Ruey!

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#261:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2007 4:11 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I'm sorry that Ruey ran off.

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#262:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2007 5:37 pm
    —
Ruey wake up - he's a diamond!

Thanks Brie.

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#263:  Author: Rob, Location: Currently in a rainstorm Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2007 9:40 pm
    —
Poor Ruey - she must be so confused!

Thanks Brie ... I hope the next installment will be happier?

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#264:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2007 8:47 am
    —
Thankfully, those last few days everyone had been so busy with the wedding that she had been able to hide, there had been several shrewd glances from Ted but that had been all.

Now she was back home, it would be okay. She wouldn't see him again.

That evening she had, painfully, broken up with Skip. At first he had been angry, but in the end he had accepted that it was never going to be a serious relationship.

A few weeks later she had seen him again. She had promised to go to his next gig. Around that time too, the frostiness that had grown between herself and Meg, had started to dissipate. Meg had even apologised, saying she had felt really awkward having to choose sides between such a close friend and her brother.

Her friendship with Ted had continued, and they had become very close, sharing afternoon tea, gossip and their dreams, most afternoons. But never once had either of them felt able to mention the subject of romance. Ruey felt too raw, and she refused to let herself think of David even when she was alone. Ted didn't know how to broach the subject. She sensed her friends sensitivity, but she didn't know how to fix a broken heart.

Ted phoned Ruey that night.

"Ruey. It's my night off, and a I get a discount, so do you want to go round for some drinks?"

"I don't know" said Ruey, she never knew who she might meet if she went out.

"Oh c'mon! I'm bored stiff! Anyway it'll be my treat!"

"Well I suppose a night out could be fun." admitted Ruey.

"Don't worry" assured Ted, "Once you have had a few house cocktails you will be having tons of fun!"

"And that's supposed to stop me worrying?" asked Ruey grinning.

"Trust me you wont be worried after you have had a couple."

"Sounds like you have experience."

"Of course" replied Ted sweetly.

Having not been out in so long Ruey made an effort to look nice, even getting Meg to curl her hair for her, and applying some make-up.

Ted grinned when she saw her friend arrive. Ted looked as ever effortlessly beautiful, but for once Ruey had managed to make herself look similarly pretty.

Ted and Ruey walked straight up to the bar, Ted making sure that Ruey had no chance to see anyone sitting at any of the tables.

The man serving drinks behind the bar look down at the two woman.

"Ted what on Earth are you doing in here on your night off? Normally you can't get far enough away."

"What can I say I just love it in here so much" she said laughing, "Now are you going to ask us if we want anything to drink or not?"

He laughed. "A house cocktail for you, and what about for yourself?" he asked of Ruey.

But Ted butted in, "Make that two" she said.

"Your wish is my command."

A few minutes later they had their drinks, and they started walking over to get themselves a table.

"Ted baby! Couldn't you resist a night without me? I don't blame you really." one of the bars regulars called out.

Ted groaned.

But Ruey's stomach was lurching. For those tones belonged to none other than Rix Bettany, and seated beside him was David.

She gulped, clutching hard on her glass.

Inside, her stomach was doing flips, and her heart rate was whizzing.

He nodded at her genially.

Ruey wanted to throw her glass at him. That nod was like a dismissal. He might as well have been waving a giant banner that said "I am over Ruey".

She drained the cocktail.

"Woah! Ruey slow down. Those things are potent." warned Ted, starting to doubt her plan, "Lets sit over here" "Away from that crowd" she muttered.

Numbly Ruey followed her.

"Oh Ted. I can't bear seeing him."

Ted, still not knowing what had happened in Switzerland, just hugged her friend.

The two eventually settled into small chat, trying to ignore the rowdy group nearby.

When Ted had eventually finished her cocktail, she went up to the bar for more drinks.

"Can I sit here." even now she remembered that voice, "Or should I say May I?

Ruey turned to him, smiling waveringly.

"You can sit here, and you may too."

"Thanks"

They sat in an awkward silence for a few moments, until David spoke.

"Look, I don't normally come back for a second rejection. But seeing you here now, makes me realise that the ninety nice percent chance of pain, is completely outweighed by the probably less than one percent chance of a happy ending."

Ruey looked at him, not daring to hope.

"Ruey. Maybe i'm way out of line asking you this, but would you like to go out sometime?"

Ruey's eyes lit up. It was all she had thought about for weeks, months even.

She nodded.

THE END

Thanks everyone for supporting me, and making sure I actually finished this with all your lovely, lovely comments. They were greatly appreciated throughout!

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#265:  Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2007 9:35 am
    —
Hooray for happy endings .

Thanks Brie. Are you going to go back to the later drabble about David and Ruey now - pretty please?

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#266:  Author: Fiona Mc, Location: Bendigo, Australia Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2007 9:58 am
    —
Brie you can't just leave us there!! Please do we get any more. I remember your drabble about Madge's reaction to the relationship but do we get to see it progress and its earlier stages? This was really good by the way

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#267:  Author: Rob, Location: Currently in a rainstorm Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2007 12:07 pm
    —
This was lovely, thanks Brie! Would love to see how the story progresses please - I'd like to see more of Skip and Meg too, they seemed like great fun!

Could somone tell me the name of the drabble Fiona mentioned, about Madge's reaction to the relationship? Is it in the archives? Thanks.

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#268:  Author: Mona, Location: Hertfordshire Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2007 12:32 pm
    —
Thanks brie, I've really enjoyed this!

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#269:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2007 12:39 pm
    —
Well done David for persisting - and I think he should also smack Rix again.


Thanks brie.

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#270:  Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2007 1:49 pm
    —
Yes, we do need more of this; and more people giving Rix a good smacking!

Thanks Brie.

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#271:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2007 2:07 pm
    —
Thanks, Brie. I have really enjoyed reading this lovely drabble. I'm glad that Ruey agreed to go out with David at the end. Thank you for writing this great drabble, Brie.

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#272:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2007 2:39 pm
    —

Rob wrote:

Could somone tell me the name of the drabble Fiona mentioned, about Madge's reaction to the relationship? Is it in the archives? Thanks.

Thanks everyone for your comments. I really appreciate them! Yes there is another- as yet unwritten drabble planned- which will fit in between this drabble and "Back on the Tiernsee".

"Back on the Tiernsee" was my first drabble. However it is set a few years after "The University Years". As it was my first drabble I will be the first person to say it was not written well!! I cant stop you of course as it is sitting in the Index Drabbleorum but i would appreciate it if anyone looking for a sequel would not read it!! This is for two reasons, firstly it will give away the outcome of my new drabble, and secondly I have started re-writing it (this is mainly tweaking) so a better version should be available soon!!

I shall probably start posting the new drabble within the next few weeks.

Thanks again,
Brie

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#273:  Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2007 3:47 pm
    —
Thanks, brie. Have really enjoyed this!

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#274:  Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough Posted: Sat Jun 16, 2007 7:42 pm
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Thanks Brie, I have also enjoyed this.

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#275:  Author: Sal, Location: Walsall / Aberystwyth Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2007 10:41 pm
    —
Yay a happy ending.

Thanks Brie this has been fabulous

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#276:  Author: brie, Location: Glasgow, aka the land of boredom Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2007 10:47 pm
    —
The sequel is now up and mostly written!

It is called "A light cast inShade" (I have no idea how to make a link there ) Thanks for all the fantabulous comments, and long may they continue

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