The CBB :: View topic - Time for a Change

#1: Time for a Change - Part Two Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 6:34 pm

Archived for length 25/11/04 Part One ~Vikki~

When Mike opened his eyes again, the room was filled with daylight. His parents had gone, but Steve was sitting by the bed, reading.

‘Good book?’ asked Mike, and Steve looked up.

‘Oh, awake at last are you?’ he said, trying to sound offhand, but failing completely.

‘Just about.’ replied Mike. ‘Is Catherine ok? Did she manage to get out of the way? Did Fliss get help? I’m guessing from this contraption that I’ve broken my leg? Do you know if I’ve done any other damage? Are Bella and Quim ok? Who’s looking after them?’

‘That’s a lot of questions,’ said Steve, as soon as he could get a word in.

‘Well, get answering them then!’ retorted Mike ‘And what time is it? And do you think there’ll be any food around here – I don’t know how long I’ve been out for, but I feel like I’ve not eaten for a month!'

‘I’ll go and find someone’ said Steve ‘But I’d better warn you, they’re sure to want to poke and prod you around before you can do anything else.’ He was right. Visitors were banned while a doctor came to examine him and it was some time later before Mike was allowed to semi-sit up in bed and was presented with a bowl of soup. He grimaced at the sight of it, but knew well enough that he wouldn’t get anything more substantial at this stage. Once he had finished it the empty dish was removed and he was informed that after half an hour’s rest he would be allowed visitors again.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Jun 24, 2005 12:47 pm; edited 51 times in total

#2: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 6:41 pm

Lovely relationshipbetween those two - nice to see Mike awake!Thanks Liz!

#3: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 6:58 pm

Thank you Liz! Glad that it seems like Mike'll be fine!

#4: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 8:14 pm

The more Mike is in this the more I love him! Heart

#5: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 10:11 pm

Thank you for the last installment Liz, this is fantastic

#6: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:10 am

phew - glad mike is pretty much back to normal (with the exception of a rather trashed leg). hope they let the kids go and see him next

#7: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:27 am

cheers Liz Very Happy

#8: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 8:30 pm

Can't believe this has had to be archived for length - it was going to be fairly short when the bunny first bit!

‘We need to talk with you three.’ Joey pulled her eldest girls aside into a quite room where they were joined by Jack, Doctor Froissart and a nurse, introduced as Sister Williams, the nurse in charge of Felicity.

‘What is it Mamma?’ asked Len.

‘Would you, that is not necessarily all three of you, see what you think, but would you be able to chat with Felicity and see if you can get through to her.’

‘What do you mean?’ enquired Margot.

‘Well she seems to have this idea that the accident was all her fault,’ explained Joey, ‘and Felix has talked to her, Laura spoke with her a bit and so have some of the nurses, but none of them have been able to convince her that it’s not.’

‘Why?’ asked Con.

‘We don’t know why’ answered Sister Williams, sounding tired and frustrated. ‘She doesn’t seem to be taking in what she’s told, the more we reassure her it’s not her fault the worse she gets.’

‘No, I mean why does Felicity think the accident was all her fault?’ said Con.

‘She hasn’t given a reason.’ Doctor Froissart told them. ‘When anyone has tried to talk to her she just keeps repeating that it’s her fault. Sister Williams and the other nurses have talked themselves blue in the face trying to convince her that it wasn’t.’

‘Maybe that’s the problem then,’ Con pointed out. ‘Perhaps we need to give Fliss a chance to explain why she’s saying it’s her fault without automatically contradicting her – you know, listen to her instead of talking at her.’ There was a moment’s silence when she finished speaking. In typical Con fashion she had come straight out with what was in her head, but there was no denying that she had a good point.

Len looked at her sisters. ‘You could well be right, Con.’

‘Margot agreed ‘I think so too. Do you think all three of us should go at once?’

‘Well, let’s go and see her together, there’s nothing strange about us doing that, and then see how things progress.’ Len suggested. ‘We’ll just play it by ear.’

‘Good idea,’ said Con, ‘we’d probably get nowhere fast if we go in sounding like we’ve practiced what we’re going to say.’

‘Too right!’ agreed Margot fervently.

‘Ok, we’ll leave it to you three then,’ said Jo, as Doctor Froissart and Sister Williams were silent, affronted by the unintentional but implicit criticism of their skills in Con’s comments. ‘Give Fliss my love and tell her I’ll be over to see her a bit later. We’re going to see how Mike’s getting on first.’

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:02 pm; edited 1 time in total

#9: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 8:35 pm

Good for Con - sometimes it just has to be said! Laughing

#10: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 8:35 pm

Hope the trips can help Fliss!!!

#11: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:31 pm

Thanks Liz. Hope they can get through to Felicity

#12: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:43 pm

Lovely Con, going straight to the point. She's more perceptive than most think!

#13: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 10:04 pm

Mike was getting on well. After his prescribed 30 minutes rest he was glad to have some visitors for all his unanswered questions, which he poured out to his parents as soon as they entered his room. ‘Whoa there!’ grinned Jack, ‘one at a time. Ok – Catherine is fine – she’s knocked her head and her memory has been affected, but we’re hoping it will come back to her soon. Felicity probably saved your life, as she stopped your leg from bleeding. Your children are at home, Ruey and Laura are looking after all the kids this morning and they will come to see you later if you like.’

‘Of course I like’ replied Mike ‘Were they ok without me last night?’ ‘They were fine, apparently,’ answered Jo. ‘We explained that you had hurt your leg and were here, and they were a bit upset to go to bed without you there, but we managed it, and the girls say they slept the night through with no problems.’

‘We decided to come visiting in two waves today’ explained Jack. ‘We’re the first wave – Len, Con and Margot have gone to see Fliss and will be over here later, and Charles, Roddy and Erica have gone to see Catherine. Steve, Ruey, Roger, Phil, Geoff, Felix and Marie-Claire will come in the next wave.’

‘Wait a minute,’ Mike looked confused ‘Why have the trips gone to see Fliss – she wasn’t hurt was she?’

‘She wasn’t hurt,’ replied Jo, ‘but she went into shock once you were all safely here and, despite all our assurances, keeps blaming herself for the accident.’ Mike found himself in a quandary. He could understand why Felicity was blaming herself. Should he say something about what had happened? He shifted slightly in the bed and a red-hot poker of pain stabbed through his leg. Mindful of his mother's presence he supressed an oath, but couldn't avoid an agonised yelp of pain. Immediately his parents were at his side, concerned, and by the time he was sorted and comfortable again the opportunity had passed.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:04 pm; edited 1 time in total

#14: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 10:22 pm

Oh poor Mike - wonder if he'll have to say anything or if the Trips will get it out of Felicity... Oh, and thanks Liz! Wink

#15: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 10:55 pm

Thanks Liz. Great update as usual

#16: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 12:25 am

Thank you Liz!!! Looking forward to more soon!

#17: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 12:47 am

*Hoping that as I am fulfilling Vikki's wish, she will reciprocate and post more New Family and Oz Wink

*

A knock at the door brought Felicity out of her melancholy contemplations. This was followed by the entrance of her older sisters. Each of them came over to give her a hug and a kiss then Len settled herself in the chair at the side of the bed, while Con and Margot perched either side on the foot of the bed, aware that if a nurse came in they would be turned off it in short order. ‘How are you feeling today?’ asked Margot.

‘Okay, I suppose,’ replied Felicity listlessly. ‘Mamma and Papa send their love.’ Con told her, ‘and they’ll be here to see you later, but they’ve gone to visit Mike first. He’s woken up now and has had something to eat so that’s good news.’

‘Everyone sends their love, in fact.’ Len put in, ‘we drew straws for visiting, so we’re here now and everyone else will come later.’

‘You got the short straw, you mean.’ Felicity said with a touch of bitterness in her tone.

‘What are you talking about?’ said Len. ‘We were fighting over who would come to see you, not trying to get out of it.’

‘Well, you won’t do soon. When you know.’ Felicity told them.

‘When we know what?’ asked Margot.

‘That it was all my fault,’ said Felicity.

‘So you keep saying.’ Con said, ‘how about you tell us what happened?’ Felicity looked at them. Each of them was looking at her with sincere love and acceptance in their gaze, and it might be the last time they did that. She made the moment last as long as she could before she began.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:06 pm; edited 1 time in total

#18: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 12:52 am

Thank you Liz!!! Since you posted so promptly I'll put a bit more of New Family up, but can't do any Oz, cos I don't have any written, and I have to get up very early tomorrow!

#19: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 7:23 am

Finally someone asks Felicity what happened! Thanks Liz! Laughing

#20: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:49 am

Thanks Liz, I hope they are able to help Felicity

#21: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:57 am

Thanks Liz, looking forward to the trips reactions!

#22: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 11:17 am

Thanks Liz! It's just so true to life that no one listens at a time like that. Good for Con! I have a feeling the triplets will be more sympathetic than Felicity thinks they will. I do hope so.

#23: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 12:18 pm

Great as ever Liz. Thanks

#24: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 8:40 pm

Poor Feliity, I know she's been horrible in the past but its going to take a lot of courage to admit it's her falt. I hope the triplets realise this

#25: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:45 pm

Felicity took a deep breath. ‘We were arguing. Cecil and me. I was mad at her because she said she was changing her name, because she didn’t want to know us any more. I know Laura turned Felix down when he proposed to her this morning and it’s her fault. I couldn’t bear that Felix’s life had been ruined because of her and at that moment I felt I really hated her. I went after her when she went out and caught up with her. We had a huge row. You know we’ve always quarrelled, but this was worse than any time before. I was angry and we had a huge fight and then…’ she looked down, shame-faced, ‘I hit her.’ She suppressed a sob and continued. ‘At that moment I wished she’d never been born and I told her I was glad she didn’t want to be related to us any more. She turned and ran away, but she was so upset she didn’t realise there was a car coming as she went into the road. Mike arrived just then and he leapt past me to try to save her. I never wanted that to happen. When I saw the car coming I realised how much she means to me, that I am glad she was born and I love her, even though we keep fighting. But it’s too late now. She’ll hate me and everyone else will hate me for what I’ve done.’ She did not dare to look up to see her sisters eyes, to meet the repulsion she was sure would be in them, and when she felt the bed move thought that they were just getting up to walk out in disgust. She was startled to feel a hand on hers and looked up to meet Margot’s eyes.

‘We don’t hate you.’ She assured her. Felicity slowly looked round at them. The love and acceptance was still in their gaze, along with compassion. For the first time since that dreadful moment she felt a flicker of hope inside her.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:08 pm; edited 1 time in total

#26: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:47 pm

Awww, yes Margot would be the first - she knows what it's like to act in temper. Thanks Liz.

#27: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 11:49 pm

I'm not completely sure about the bit I've written with the next bit of the triplets talking to Felicity. If anyone would be willing to take a look and give me their opinion, please PM me. Thanks Liz

#28: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 10:26 am

Glad that Felicity is being honest, and that the trips have been listening to her.

#29: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 4:54 pm

Awwwww!!! That was lovely!!!!!! Glad the trips are there for her!

#30: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 5:40 pm

Cheers for the update Liz Very Happy

#31: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 9:18 pm

Catherine looked up as three people entered her room. Here were more faces she recognised but with unknown names. The first one was the most familiar and bore enough resemblance to Margot and Felix, even with his dark hair, for her to realise he must be another brother. The other two did not look each other or any of her family visitors. In turn they came over and said ‘hello’ and kissed her, then shuffled their feet awkwardly as they tried to make conversation. ‘How are you feeling?’ asked the girl ‘is your head hurting a lot.’

‘Not too bad,’ replied Catherine, ‘they’ve given me some pain relief to help. But I am confused,’ she added ‘I don’t know who you are?’

‘Sorry!’ exclaimed all three at once all rushing to introduce themselves, in the end the girl hushed the two men.

‘I’m Erica,’ she said, ‘and these are Charles and Roddy.’

‘Can you really not remember anything?’ asked Roddy curiously.

‘Not a thing,’ replied Catherine.

‘Isn’t that rather scary?’ he asked.

‘Roddy!’ exclaimed Erica and Charles in unison.

‘What?’ He asked. ‘I just want to know. It could be quite groovy. If we weren’t around to say who you are, you could be anyone! If it were me, I would be James Bond!’

‘Roddy!’ exclaimed Erica and Charles again.

‘What?’ he asked again. Catherine smiled slightly, the situation sounded familiar. Roddy was just that kind of tactless but well-meaning person she thought. This was closely followed by the thought ‘how did I know that?’ She tucked the memory away, to pursue it later, and felt encouraged, that even that one thought had occurred to her like that. Charles was arguing quietly with Roddy about his insensitivity, and Erica tried to distract Catherine by chatting about her husband Steve, and their son, William, who was just trying to walk and climb on all the furniture. Catherine listened with interest. Her family had been warned not to try to force memories up her, but this wasn’t one of her memories, just chatter about a happy family, which she was able to relax and enjoy. Once Charles finished his conversation with his adopted brother with a ‘just think before you open your mouth will you, dunderhead!’ the boys joined in the conversation, and things went more smoothly.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:14 pm; edited 1 time in total

#32: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 9:20 pm

Oh lovely, that is so typical of a family argument! Thanks Liz. Laughing

#33: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 10:16 pm

Too lovely updates. Thank you. Am glad to see Margot could sympathise.

#34: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 10:27 pm

*Huggles Catherine* Have Jack and Joey seen her yet?

#35: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 10:46 pm

Aww!!! Thank you Liz!!!

#36: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 11:17 am

Thank you Liz, great updates and I'm glad Felicity is getting some support Very Happy

#37: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 6:28 pm

Liz, your Grizel story is lovely, but please don't forget about this too. Is it time for an update please please please?

#38: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 12:32 pm

Insensitive though Roddy may be at least Catherine sort of remembers him! Thank you Liz.

#39: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Dec 04, 2004 6:18 pm

Please could someone with the power delete this post - I've deleted the text, because the same one posted twice. Thanks Liz

Last edited by LizB on Sat Dec 04, 2004 6:21 pm; edited 1 time in total

#40: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Dec 04, 2004 6:19 pm

Don't worry Mihiri, I'm not abandoning this - just have not been on the forum for a few days Thanks to Lesley & Josie for reading this bit for me.

Felicity continued to look at her sisters. ‘I feel awful.’ She said. ‘If I hadn’t lost my beastly temper none of this would have happened.’

‘We’ve all lost our temper and done something we regret at some time or other.’ Con told her.

‘But, not like that, not so you hit your own sister.’

‘Actually,’ Len spoke up, ‘I’ve slapped Margot before now.’

‘Well I did deserve it’ put in Margot. ‘I’d just boxed Ted’s ears if I remember rightly.’

‘But you haven’t killed anyone because of your temper,’ protested Felicity.

‘Well, you haven’t either.’ Con pointed out. ‘I’m sure you were completely unaware of the car before it came around the bend, and it’s not as if you shoved Catherine under its wheels, is it.’

‘Well, no I didn’t,’ admitted Felicity, ‘but I might as well have done – she wouldn’t have walked out into the road if I shouted those awful things at her and hit her. So I’m responsible for nearly killing her and Mike.’

‘I nearly killed someone once because of my temper.’ Margot said quietly. Felicity’s eyes stopped studying the bedcovers and snapped to her sister’s face. ‘You wouldn’t have known about it, you were only six or seven at the time. I threw a bookend at somebody and it hit her on the side of the head. A little further across, or a slightly harder throw and she’d have been dead.’

‘But she was alright?’ asked Felicity. ‘Well, not immediately, she had a nasty gash to her head and I knocked her out, but she did recover. Probably more quickly than I did.’

‘Why did you have to recover – had she thrown something at you first?’

‘No, but the guilt of it afterwards – it took me a long time to work through, although Auntie Hilda talked to me and that helped.’

‘But you became a better person for it.’ Con put in.

‘Do you think so?’ Margot looked at her triplets, ‘It did teach me to keep a hold on my temper.’

‘And never to put off a trip to the dentist.’ grinned Len, lightening the moment. Felicity looked confused again.

‘Never mind about that.’ Margot told her. ‘The main thing is that you realise that although you may have contributed to the situation it isn’t all your fault. If you must feel guilty about something, it should be about arguing with and hitting Catherine, but not about a car you didn’t know about hitting her.’

‘Guilt is a natural feeling to have,’ she continued, ‘but you mustn’t let it take over your life and ruin it. You must learn from it and let it help you and then let go of it.’ Len and Con murmured agreement. Felicity looked slowly round at them.

‘Would you mind… I mean… I think I need to have some time alone to think?’

‘No problem,’ Len told her and each in turn gave Felicity a hug and kiss before leaving her with her thoughts.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:18 pm; edited 1 time in total

#41: Author: Sarah_G-G, Location: Sheffield (termtime), ? any other time!

Posted: Sat Dec 04, 2004 6:51 pm

Thank you for that part. I thought it was very sensitively written.

#42: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Dec 04, 2004 7:11 pm

Poor Felicity. I guess she has more fire in her than I had realised, she only reacted like Margot did with the bookend. Full marks to Margot for helping by telling her about that. Very sensitive and true to life, Liz. thank you.

#43: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Dec 04, 2004 8:47 pm

Lovely Liz!

#44: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Sat Dec 04, 2004 9:19 pm

I just started reading this from the beginning, so missed all the cliffs that everyone else seems to have fallen foul of, but it looks like I'll be joining you soon, now I've caught up with the story...

#45: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Sat Dec 04, 2004 10:32 pm

Thanks Liz!

#46: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun Dec 05, 2004 12:44 pm

Thanks Liz Very Happy

#47: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sun Dec 05, 2004 3:34 pm

Lovely post Liz. Glad to see you're back. Its good that Margot can tell Felicity about her experience and help her

#48: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sun Dec 05, 2004 5:22 pm

Hope that the trips have helped Felicity to come to terms with what happened.

#49: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Mon Dec 06, 2004 3:19 pm

Thank you Liz, I'm glad Margot told Felicity about the results of her temper, I hope it will help.

#50: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Dec 08, 2004 8:30 am

After Erica, Roddy and Charles left her, Catherine had been hoping for some quiet to pursue that elusive memory that had flitted into her brain, but before a minute had elapsed there was another knock at the door and an older couple walked in. Again there was a nagging familiarity about them, then the woman spoke ‘Catherine, my love, how are you feeling?’

‘Mamma?’ she asked, the voice suddenly giving her a name to go with the face. Jo swooped down on her with her arms open and gave her a big hug.

‘We came to see you last night, but you were asleep.’ Jack came round the other side of the bed ‘Let her breathe Jo’ he laughed and then, when she released Catherine, bent down himself to hold her closely. Her parents (the man must be her father she decided, logically) sat down either side of the bed. ‘So how are you feeling?’ he asked.

‘Well, my head’s still rather muzzy, and I still can’t remember much.’

Jo pounced on the ‘much’. ‘So you can remember something then?’

‘Not properly. I knew when you spoke to me who you were, but not when I saw you. And I remembered something about Roddy earlier, but that’s been it. Nothing else.’ Nothing else except the recurring dream, which was so real it must be a memory, but so frightening she didn’t want to explore it any further.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:20 pm; edited 1 time in total

#51: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Dec 08, 2004 8:34 am

Poor Catherine - still at least she remembered Joey! But what is so frightening that she doesn't want to remember it? Confused

Thanks Liz.

#52: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Dec 08, 2004 9:12 am

That dream sounds a bit ominous Confused

Poor old Catherine. Thanks Liz

#53: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed Dec 08, 2004 9:18 am

Ohhhh what is she dreaming? Confused

#54: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Wed Dec 08, 2004 9:53 am

Poor Catherine, I don't like the sound of what she is dreaming, it must be awful to not know yourself.

#55: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Wed Dec 08, 2004 4:58 pm

Thnaks Liz. Hope things get better for Catherine soon

#56: Author: Miriam, Location: Jerusalem, Israel

Posted: Wed Dec 08, 2004 7:12 pm

Is she dreaming about the horrors of having been called Cecil? Or about the car crash? I think (from my very unscientific reading) that in these situations the accident causing the amnesia is the thing you very rarely recover a memory of - but I am open to correction. Glad we're beginning to see some flashes of memory though.

#57: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Fri Dec 10, 2004 11:19 pm

Catherine was delighted to find that a few more random memories occurred to her that day. When the triplets visited her, she had had a sudden image of the three of them, looking several years younger than they did now, tussling with a large dog in a garden. ‘Did we have a dog?’ she asked tentatively.

‘Yes,’ replied Len, ‘When we three were very young, we had Rufus. Then when we were older we got Bruno.’

‘Bruno’ Catherine said the name thoughtfully.

‘Does that mean anything to you?’ asked Margot.

‘I think so’ replied Catherine ‘I think I can remember being very young and in a strange house. You suddenly appeared with Bruno and took me away.’

The older girls exchanged glances. ‘Yes, that happened,’ replied Con.

‘That was when you were a little kid and were kidnapped’ said Len.

Kidnapped. The word sent a shiver down Catherine’s spine and she suddenly felt she was in her nightmare again. Her sudden pallor was not lost on her sisters, and they rapidly changed the subject, although they discussed it among themselves later. ‘Poor Catherine,’ said Len, ‘she seemed really shaken up by that memory from when that woman kidnapped her.’

‘Yes,’ agreed Con, ‘but don’t you think she was more upset by it than she might have been. After all, she can’t have remembered it all that clearly, and it wasn’t that scary for her at the time.’

‘Yes, but if you’re remembering just odd bits of your life, that’s not the nicest of things to remember.’ Margot pointed out.

‘True,’ said Con slowly, ‘but still, I’m not sure there’s not more to it than that.’

‘Well, I guess we can only wait and see what other things she remembers and how she reacts to those.’ Len said. ‘Anyway, hopefully Fliss will start to sort herself out now.’

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:22 pm; edited 1 time in total

#58: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Dec 10, 2004 11:26 pm

Poor Catherine. I can't imagine what losing your memory would be like but getting odd flashes like that must be terrifying!

#59: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Fri Dec 10, 2004 11:34 pm

Feelso sorry for catherine - must be dreadful to have only slight flashbacks of your entire life. Nice to see more of this.

#60: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Sat Dec 11, 2004 9:28 am

Poor Catherine, I'm thinking there's more to the kidnapping than we know about!

#61: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sat Dec 11, 2004 4:38 pm

Cazx wrote:

Poor Catherine, I'm thinking there's more to the kidnapping than we know about!

Me too, thanks for the update Liz

#62: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sat Dec 11, 2004 6:36 pm

Poor Catherine! Hope she gets her memory back soon!

#63: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Dec 13, 2004 9:53 am

Thanks Liz. Very Happy

#64: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Mon Dec 13, 2004 1:20 pm

Poor Catherine, what an awful thing to remember Sad

#65: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2004 7:07 pm

Sorry to have left this languishing - I've got quite a bit written, but not typed up yet! Here's a bit more ...

There was a tap in the door, and Felicity looked up from her contemplation of the view out of the window to see Laura sticking her head around ‘Mind if I come in?’

‘Not at all,’ answered Felicity, slightly surprised at this unexpected visitor.

‘How are you feeling?’ asked Laura.

‘Still a bit shaky,’ Felicity confessed, ‘but I’ll get there. How are the others doing now?’

‘Okay.’ Laura told her. ‘Catherine’s sleeping again, and she’s had a couple of odd memories come back to her, which is encouraging. And Mike’s doing ‘as well as can be expected’ as we medical people say! I’ve just come from visiting him with his children – Steve is taking them home now, but I thought I’d pop in to see you before I go.’

‘Thanks.’ Felicity didn’t really know what to say. She knew Laura a little, but felt awkward because she had turned down her beloved brother.

There was a moment’s pause, Laura looking as awkward as Felicity, before she gathered her thoughts and took the plunge. ‘Felicity, I’ve heard it mentioned that you think I refused Felix’s proposal because of Cecil or Catherine changing her name.’

‘Who told you that?’ asked Felicity.

‘No-one told me exactly,’ Laura replied, ‘but Roddy, Marie-Claire and Geoff had a conversation about it outside an open window, and I couldn’t help hearing some of it. Anyway, I just wanted to set the record straight.’

‘You don’t need to do that,’ protested Felicity, although part of her desperately wanted to know why Felix hadn’t been good enough for Laura.

‘I know I don’t need to, but I want to.’ Laura said. She paused a moment before continuing. ‘Felix is a lovely, lovely guy and he’s very dear to me, but not in that way. If nothing had happened the evening before, I still wouldn’t have accepted his proposal. And certainly Catherine’s announcement had nothing to do with me turning him down.’

‘I thought maybe it had put you off our family,’ Felicity told her. ‘Put me off?’ exclaimed Laura, ‘Don’t you realise how much it said about your family that she felt able to come here and face you all and tell you that? That she didn't just write to let you know, or even not tell you and just kind of fade out of your lives?’

‘I hadn’t thought of that.’ Felicity replied. ‘Maybe there’s a few things about our family I’ve been taking for granted that I shouldn’t have.’ Laura was sensitive enough not to pursue the issue, and she changed the subject to talk about what Quim and Bella had got up to that day.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:26 pm; edited 1 time in total

#66: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2004 7:34 pm

Glad Laura visited - of course that'll make Felicity feel even guiltier now! Thanks Liz

#67: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2004 7:39 pm

Laura was very perceptive there! I wonder if Felicity actually has more issues to resolve than Cecil/Catherine! Thanks Liz.

#68: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2004 7:41 pm

So why did she turn him down??? *curious* Thanks Liz Very Happy

#69: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Dec 17, 2004 11:37 am

Good for Laura. Thanks Liz. Very Happy

#70: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester

Posted: Fri Dec 17, 2004 10:18 pm

Thanks Liz. I'm glad Laura set her straight though it's not going to help Felicity's guilt I'd guess.

#71: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 6:18 pm

Thanks Liz. I'm very curious to know what was behind Laura's refusal though...hint to please post some more

#72: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 7:55 pm

Thank you Liz!!! *echoes the pleas for more!*

#73: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 8:06 pm

Mihiri wrote

Quote:

I'm very curious to know what was behind Laura's refusal though

I think it was (a) she didn't like him that way & (b) having met Mike she thought here was someone she might like that was.

#74: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 8:58 pm

Lyanne wrote:

Mihiri wrote

Quote:

I'm very curious to know what was behind Laura's refusal though

I think it was (a) she didn't like him that way & (b) having met Mike she thought here was someone she might like that was.

Hmm...it certainyl seems possible. If it was becuase of Mike though does this mean there are going to be tensions between Mike and Felix next. Please post mroe soon Liz

#75: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Sun Dec 26, 2004 6:07 pm

Thank you for a wonderful story Liz. I have just caught up on pages and pages of it. Hope we see Catherine recover her memory soon and that Felicity sorts out her issues.

#76: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sun Jan 09, 2005 1:31 pm

Sorry for the delay in continuing. I'm struggling with this at the moment - I think the anaesthatic may have killed off all my bunnies Shocked

Mike had been delighted to see his children, and their reunion had been as boisterous as possible considering he was restrained by various contraptions. Now all the visitors had gone and he lay awake treasuring the memory of their faces, the innocently amusing comments they had made. Over the last couple of days they had obviously managed to get on very friendly terms with Laura, they were confidently holding a hand each when they came in the room and their conversation was punctuated with ‘Auntie Laura did’ or ‘Auntie Laura said’. His thoughts gradually drifted from his children to the woman who had accompanied them. He suddenly realised where his thoughts were headed and took himself to task. This was the girl his brother had proposed to, and even though she may have turned him down that didn’t mean Felix wouldn’t succeed in the end. Even if that were the case he couldn’t get involved with a girl his brother was in love with. And even if he could, his thoughts continued, what woman would want to get involved with a widower who came with two small, mischievous children attached. And even if ... He had to stop this train of ‘even ifs’, the first one was all that mattered. He couldn’t pursue a relationship with Laura, he couldn’t do that to Felix. He had to stop thinking about her. Despite his stern self-talking to, when he finally slept, his dreams were haunted by a pair of laughing green eyes.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:27 pm; edited 1 time in total

#77: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Jan 09, 2005 2:16 pm

Well obviously one bunny survived! That was lovely. Poor Mike, Felix and Laura. What a complication.

#78: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Sun Jan 09, 2005 2:47 pm

Hopefully he'll talk to Felicity & find out that Laura doesn't care for Felix in that way. Now, all we need is a new character for Felix to fall in reciprocated love with...

#79: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Sun Jan 09, 2005 3:40 pm

Oh dear poor Mike! and I wonder what Laura thinks of him?? Thank you Liz Very Happy

#80: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Jan 09, 2005 4:09 pm

Oh dear a love triangle with two brothers and one woman -not good. Crying or Very sad

Thanks Liz - hope yopu're OK.

#81: Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire

Posted: Sun Jan 09, 2005 11:03 pm

Quote:

what woman would want to get involved with a widower who came with two small, mischievous children attached.

I have a friend who would jump at the chance Wink

Thankyou for the update Liz - I am sending your bunnies some special lettuce with reviving properties - although, as Patmac said, clearly at least one is in full working order!

#82: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jan 10, 2005 12:24 am

Thanks Liz.Hope you're recuperating well. Will send over the defibrillator someone sent one of my bunny's recently - didn't work on mine, but you may have more luck Wink

But ditto as above - one certainly seems to have survived. Poor old Mike. Can forsee some hideous complications ahead. Confused

#83: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Mon Jan 10, 2005 1:42 pm

Thanks Liz! Hmmm Mike, he's so lovely!

#84: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Mon Jan 10, 2005 3:07 pm

*fingers crossed that someone will come along for Felix to get together with, and then Mike and Laura can be happy.*

#85: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Mon Jan 10, 2005 4:07 pm

Felicity lay in the dark, thinking intensely about all she had heard that day. She knew there was only one thing she could do now. She had to talk to Cecil, or Catherine, if that was what she was calling herself, she acknowledged, and tell her she was sorry. Catherine may not be ready to forgive her yet, or ever, but she had to try.

To think was to act, so having come to this decision, she got carefully out of bed, pulled on her dressing gown and slippers, and left the room. The corridors of the San were deserted and dimly lit, and she saw no-one as she made her way along them and came to the room where she knew her sister was. She opened the door and slipped quietly in, finding Catherine fast asleep she settled down in a chair to wait.

An hour or so later she had dozed off and was suddenly disturbed by muttering from Catherine. Felicity got to her feet and approached the bed, just as the muttering turned into a cry, full of fear, and Catherine started thrashing around. Catching hold of a flailing hand, Felicity spoke soothingly to her sister. ‘It’s ok, you’re alright, I’m here.’ As she did so, Catherine woke up, sitting bolt upright in bed and looking around in panic before her gaze fell on Felicity.

‘Oh, Fliss!’ she gasped and burst into tears. Startled, Felicity did the most sensible thing she could. She sat down on the edge of the bed, drew Catherine into her arms and let her cry on her shoulder, gently stroking her hair and back until she eventually quietened down. Then, digging in her dressing gown pocket she produced and somewhat crumpled but clean handkerchief, which she pushed into Catherine’s hand saying

‘Here you go, mop up with this and then tell me what that was all about.’

Catherine scrubbed her eyes with the handkerchief and blew her nose thoroughly. ‘It was just a bad dream,’ she said evasively. ‘What are you doing here anyway?’

Felicity eyed her thoughtfully for a moment before deciding to leave the question of the dream for the time-being. ‘I had to come to see you, to say sorry for being such a beast to you. I was completely out of order and I should never have blamed you like I did, and I didn’t really mean what I said you know.’ She looked doubtfully at her sister. After she’d been so awful would she be forgiven? If the roles were reversed would she be willing to forgive? She wasn’t convinced that she would be.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:28 pm; edited 1 time in total

#86: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Mon Jan 10, 2005 4:54 pm

awww! hope they can make up!

#87: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Mon Jan 10, 2005 4:56 pm

How lovely that Catherine could remember Felicity's name. Nice to see more of this - thanks Liz.

#88: Author: Miriam, Location: Jerusalem, Israel

Posted: Mon Jan 10, 2005 9:00 pm

I'm glad that Catherine could remeber Felicity's name - even if it was her hated abbreviation - but does she remeber the arguement leading up to the accident? Does she have any idea what Felicity is going on about right now? Unless that is what she was dreaming about...

#89: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Jan 12, 2005 12:03 am

Glad Felicity went to see Catherine but hope she knows what is going on and why Felicity is apologising.

#90: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jan 12, 2005 10:31 am

Good on Fliss for apologising anyway. Now just hope catherine remembers why!

#91: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed Jan 12, 2005 8:34 pm

I hope Catherine can remember what Felicity is on about.

#92: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Thu Jan 13, 2005 2:22 pm

Catherine looked at her sister. ‘You know that because I’ve knocked my head I’ve had amnesia?’ she said. Felicity nodded. ‘And I’ve remembered some things, quite a lot of things really. The doctors say I’ll remember more things as time goes on, but there may be some things I’ll never remember.’ A motion of her hand stopped Felicity as she would have burst into more apologies. ‘Well let’s just say that the conversation on the road is one of those things I’ll never remember.’

Felicity looked at her sister, slowly taking in what she had said. Then with a sound that was half sob and half laugh she flung herself on her in a giant hug. ‘I don’t deserve you!’ she exclaimed, the words slightly muffled in Catherine’s shoulder.

Catherine hugged her back. ‘Well, tough, you’re stuck with me!’ she told her, and although she tried to keep her voice light it held a betraying quiver.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:30 pm; edited 1 time in total

#93: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Thu Jan 13, 2005 2:36 pm

Lovely scene, Liz!

#94: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester

Posted: Thu Jan 13, 2005 5:04 pm

Aw.. that's very sweet of Catherine, and very good news that she does remember what not to remember (if you see what i mean *g*)

#95: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Thu Jan 13, 2005 5:57 pm

Awwwwwww wonderful thanks Liz

#96: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Thu Jan 13, 2005 6:32 pm

Oh, this is lovely! I'm going to have to read the archived bit, now...

#97: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Thu Jan 13, 2005 7:12 pm

That was so sweet of Catherine. Laughing

#98: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jan 13, 2005 8:00 pm

Awwwww, that was lovely Very Happy

Thanks Liz

#99: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Thu Jan 13, 2005 10:25 pm

Awww bless, Catherine is a sweetie!

#100: Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire

Posted: Thu Jan 13, 2005 11:41 pm

Thankyou Liz that was wonderful! Good for Catherine Very Happy

#101: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 4:57 pm

Felicity slept well once she had returned to her room, without the aid of drugs, and awoke feeling refreshed the following morning. As it was Sunday, she wasn’t expecting any visitors that morning, as her family would all be attending church. She was, therefore, surprised when there was a knock on her door. Calling ‘come in’ she was even more surprised to see a man she recognised as the passenger who had helped her at the accident.

‘Hello,’ he greeted her with a nervous smile, ‘The nurse said you could have visitors, so I thought I’d drop by and see you, if you don’t mind?’

‘Not at all,’ replied Felicity, glad that she had brushed her hair only a few minutes earlier.

‘I don’t think we were ever introduced properly,’ he said, ‘I know you’re Felicity Maynard I’m Anthony, Anthony Tinlow.’ He sat down on a chair near the bed. ‘I wanted to let you know how impressed I was at how you dealt with everything at the accident.’

‘I didn’t do anything’ disclaimed Felicity, her cheeks a slightly rosier hue.

‘Yes you did,’ he countered, ‘I wouldn’t have known what to do and could have made things worse, but you were just splendid.’

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:31 pm; edited 1 time in total

#102: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 5:01 pm

Oooohhh! Do I spy a budding romance? Thanks Liz.

#103: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 5:30 pm

Ohhh a young man for Felicity!

#104: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 7:43 pm

oooh!!! Lovely!! Maybe he has a sister for Felix? Wink

#105: Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 8:30 pm

Excellent! Is he a doctor, too? Very Happy

#106: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 10:54 pm

Thanks Liz! Was wondering when he'd arrive... Wink

#107: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 1:15 am

Lovely updates. Glad that Catherine and Felicity sorte their differences. Nice young man for Felicity.

#108: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 12:30 am

Mike wasn’t expecting any visitors either, and he was surprised when Laura put her head around the door.

‘Hi, aren’t you at church with the rest?’ he asked.

‘No, I’m going to go to the evening service.’ Laura explained, ‘So I thought if you wanted a visitor I’d wander along to see you – if you’d rather be quiet I can go and see Felicity or Catherine?’

‘No, no, I spend more than enough time being quiet as it is,’ replied Mike. ‘Oh, so any visitor is better than none then?’ Laura pretended to be offended. ‘No, that’s not what I meant at all!’ Mike hastened to explain, then realised she was teasing him and fell silent.

‘Anyway, Margot asked me to let you know that Bella and Quim slept fine last night, although earlier in the evening Bella got hold of a ball of wool from somewhere and had Quim lying in bed, with his leg in the air while she tied it to the bed post and the washstand. Apparently they were playing at "hostipals", having been inspired by their visit to you yesterday.’ They both laughed at the picture. His eyes met hers and he felt a connection between them, and felt a flash of gladness, swiftly followed by guilt. He tore his eyes away and looked down at the bed.

‘I hope they’re not causing too much bother – they can be holy terrors at times,’ Mike smiled, hoping he sounded normal.

‘Well there seem to be plenty of your family around with experience of children.’ Laura replied, ‘It’s certainly an eye-opener for me – I’ve not had much experience of children, or family life.’

Mike longed to know more about her past and what her family life had been like, but felt that to ask, to find out more about her, could only be dangerous. Trying to keep the conversation on safe grounds he replied, rather inanely he thought, ‘Well there are a lot of us, and those who were older had to help with the younger ones as we grew up.’

‘So I understand from what Felix has told me,’ replied Laura, ‘he’s told me lots of tales of various family exploits.’

‘He’s got mother’s gift for story-telling, although he doesn’t write.’ Mike told her. ‘When we were kids he used to tell us stories after we were put to bed at night. Amazingly we never got caught out at it!’ He still felt unable to look her in the face, and his eyes roamed the room, before settling on gazing out of the window. An awkward silence ensued.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:32 pm; edited 1 time in total

#109: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 1:21 am

I hope Mike & Laura work things out -- without hurting Felix, of course. Neutral

Thanks for the updates, Liz!

#110: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 1:31 am

Really hoping Mike and Laura get together and that Felix finds someone nice too.

#111: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 10:46 am

Poor mike, what a nasty situation to be in And puts me in a tricky quandry too - want Mike to be happy, but also felix so, let's hope felix finds someone more suitable soon!

#112: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 1:15 pm

Poor Mike, Felix and Laura... Confused

#113: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 1:46 pm

Oh, what a horrible situation. Let's hope felix can find himself a nice girl somewhere and give Mike his blessing. Sadly, can't quite see it working out like that. Confused

Thanks Liz

#114: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 2:09 pm

Pleeeeeeeeeeeease find someone lovely for Felix, so Mike and Laura can be happy!! Very Happy

Thanks Liz!

#115: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:25 pm

Really hope this isn't going to cause problems between Felix and Mike. Thanks Liz. Smile

#116: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 8:41 pm

Hope everything is ok for Mike, he deserves to be happy.

#117: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 8:51 pm

Helen P wrote

Quote:

Excellent! Is he a doctor, too?

I don't think he can be or he wouldn't have said

Quote:

I wouldn’t have known what to do and could have made things worse, but you were just splendid.

I should think they've got enough doctors anyway, time to have some different careers in the family!

#118: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Mon Jan 31, 2005 10:52 am

The bunny has finally revived and told me a bit more...

Catherine was glad of the peace and quiet of Sunday morning. Now her memory had returned, she almost wished it hadn’t. She needed a chance to think, to face up to things. She had believed that changing her name would be the answer would solve the problem, and for a while it had seemed to, but the fears that appeared in her dreams each night proved her wrong. Changing her name had made her feel safer, but it had not wiped out the past. Somehow, she had to do something to deal with it. She had wished she could forget, and she smiled at the irony that when she had lost her memory she had been desperate to regain it.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:33 pm; edited 1 time in total

#119: Author: Sarah, Location: Ormskirk, Lancashire

Posted: Mon Jan 31, 2005 12:04 pm

Yeah! It's back! Mexican Wave

Thanks Liz - I can't wait for more! Very Happy

#120: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Mon Jan 31, 2005 12:23 pm

What has happened to Catherine/Cecil in the past? *Wibbles*

#121: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jan 31, 2005 12:52 pm

yay! It's back! Thanks Liz (even if it was only a tiny chunk and I'm greedy for more!)

#122: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Mon Jan 31, 2005 7:17 pm

Thank you Liz - worrying about Catherine.

#123: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Mon Jan 31, 2005 8:43 pm

Thanks Liz, Happy to see this back.

#124: Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire

Posted: Mon Jan 31, 2005 11:23 pm

Thankyou Liz. I'm glad this is back and I'm looking forward to more! *Sends tempting treats for the bunny*

#125: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 2:44 pm

Another little bit...

Felicity and Anthony were soon chatting away as if they had known each other for years. By the time he left, reluctantly, chased out by a nurse and promising to return, she knew all about his childhood, growing up on the outskirts of London, where he still lived, about his father’s law firm and the disappointment he had caused by not enabling “& son” to be added to the firm’s name, and about his job. “You do what??!” she had spluttered. He had grinned at her reaction and then they had both laughed.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:34 pm; edited 1 time in total

#126: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 3:08 pm

Ooooh Im so glad to see this back!! *feeds the bunny yummie treats* Is that more romance I spy?

#127: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 3:34 pm

*all confused* do we actually know what he does? If not, please fill us in! thanks liz

#128: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 5:16 pm

Glad this is back Liz.

#129: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 6:45 pm

I wonder what his job is?

#130: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 7:40 pm

Cazx wrote:

I wonder what his job is?

Not a doctor?

#131: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 8:01 pm

He's a circus clown. Wink

Thanks for the update.

#132: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 2:19 pm

Robin wrote:

*all confused* do we actually know what he does? If not, please fill us in!

He's not a doctor, as I have had specific requests that he wouldn't be, but bunny is in a mischievous mood and insists on keeping you guessing for a while longer. Wink

Laura felt that if the silence extended much more, she would scream. He had been pleased to see her when she arrived, she was sure she hadn’t mistaken the look on his face, but now it seemed he wished she wasn’t there. She was beginning to wish it herself. Hastily she cast around in her mind for something, anything, to say.

Mike wished his leg was better so he could kick himself. He was being incredibly rude to Laura, he told himself. Here she was, kind enough to visit and, because of his own idiotic thoughts, he was virtually ignoring her. It would serve him right if she got up and marched out of the room. He really should make some effort at conversation.

“Have you…” they both began at the same time, and stopped.

“You go first… no you.” they both spoke simultaneously Laura was suddenly struck with a sense of the ludicrosity of the situation and a giggle escaped, quickly stifled, but followed with another one. A glance from under her eyelashes showed her that Mike was trying to hide a grin and she relaxed into an answering smile.

“I was wondering if you’ve read many of your mother’s books?” she said.

“Every single one,” answered Mike.

“Seriously? I mean, even all the girls’ school stories?” there was a touch of incredulity in her tone.

Mike nodded. “If we can, we read them before she sends them to the publishers. She always says we’re her best critics and pick up more mistakes than her editors – she relies on us to spot if she’s mixed people up and so on.”

“Ah, so you should be thanked that she doesn’t keep repeating the same plot lines like some authors then?”

“Well, Len and Con were usually better at picking up things like that.” Mike admitted sheepishly, “Steve and Charles always thought it was wonderful, whatever Mother wrote, Margot and I were always on at her to make them more exciting and adventurous – we thought a book was no good unless someone ended up at death’s door, or something bloodthirsty happened!” He laughed at the memory and Laura joined in, glad that, somehow, the air was now clearer.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:40 pm; edited 1 time in total

#133: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 2:37 pm

lovely that they've managed to clear the air - now can we see some serious sorting out & romance please?

#134: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 5:02 pm

I can't decide if I want romance or not, cause then Felix will be upset... Of course in a perfect world Felix will find a nice girl too!

#135: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 7:16 pm

Thanks Liz, lovely.Glad they've cleared the air.

#136: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 8:10 pm

LizB wrote:

“Ah, so you should be thanked that she doesn’t keep repeating the same plot lines like some authors then?”

LOL

#137: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 9:00 pm

Must admit I laughed at that line too! Thanks Liz.

#138: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 1:34 am

*giggles* Shame EBD didn't have a few kids to read her books and pick up on mistakes and repeated storylines! Wink

#139: Author: le crapaud, Location: Bristol

Posted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 10:35 am

I am really enjoying this, it's nice to see Mike as an adult.

#140: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 11:59 am

After lunch, a contingent of the Maynard family once more headed to the San, laden with supplies of books, magazines, fruit, chocolates and other et ceteras. Some of them were going to say their goodbyes. Roger and Melanie, despite wanting to stay with the family for longer had used up most of their holiday for their honeymoon and had to return to their jobs, and Charles had to fly to Los Angeles on an assignment.

“Well, goodbye little brother,” he said to Mike, “don’t lie around eyeing up the nurses for too long, will you?”

“Hah! You’re just jealous that you didn’t think of getting attention this way before I did!” answered Mike. “You have a good flight and don’t flirt with too many stewardesses!”

“Well, you take care,” finished Charles, “I’ll see if I can do a stop off here for a couple of days on my way back, make sure you’re not malingering!” With a final grin he left the room and made his way to say his farewells to Felicity and Catherine.

He found Roger and Melanie giving final kisses to Catherine, and waited until they had finished before he took his turn, repeating his intention to visit again on his return from LA – "if you’re still here that is, if you’ve gone back to England then I’ll look you up when I get back ok?”

“Okay,” replied Catherine, “but I think I’ll probably still be here, there’s nothing to rush back for.” And some things she’d rather avoid. “I’ll be able to keep Mike company for a while after everyone else goes.

“It’s only me, Roger and Melanie going.” Charles pointed out. “Tomorrow, yes” answered Catherine, “but even if they don’t have to rush off, nobody else can hang around indefinitely, and although I’ve not seen Mike yet, I understand he’s going to be in here with his leg for a while.”

“You’re a good sister,” commented Charles, “I don’t understand what’s been going on that you don’t want to be Cecil Maynard anymore, but I’m glad to see you still want to be part of the family.”

“I never meant it as a rejection of the family.” Catherine’s eyes misted over. “Anyway, after Mike risked his life to save me, it’s nothing to stay here and keep him company for a few weeks is it?”

“I guess not.” Charles decided it was time to change the subject, before Catherine started crying on him (crying women were definitely not his forte, even his sisters) “Want me to bring you anything from LA?”

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:42 pm; edited 1 time in total

#141: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 12:39 pm

nice Charles Smile

Although still wanting to find out why catherine doesn't want to go back to england

#142: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 5:39 pm

Also intrigued why Catherine doesn't want to return to England. Thanks Liz.

#143: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 7:59 pm

*Huggles Catherine* I hope Mike can find out what is wrong with her.

#144: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 10:03 pm

Poor Catherine -obviously something seriously wrong there. Crying or Very sad

Thank you.

#145: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 12:27 am

Poor Catherine is definitley running away from something. If it isn't her family who is it? Glad Mike and Laura are getting friendly.

#146: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 4:53 pm

Felicity hugged Roger and Melanie. “Sorry I haven’t got to see much of you while you’re here,” she told them. “When are you likely to be back this way again?”

“Not for a while,” Melanie told her, “I’ve used virtually all my holiday allowance for the rest of the year. But why can’t you come over to visit us. Can’t you get yourself put on escort duty – you could come over and visit us for a few days before you bring the girls back.”

“There’s usually plenty of staff coming over from England anyway, so I’m not needed for that, but I’ll try to get over at some point.” Felicity answered, touched that they wanted to see her again.

“Just let us know when, the guest room will be ready.” Roger promised, and he and Melanie gave her a last kiss before leaving.

They were barely out of the room when Charles appeared. “Well, Fliss, I hope you, at least, are not going to be hanging around here much longer,” he told her.

“I should be out of here tomorrow if I behave myself,” smiled Felicity. “Is Mamma here this afternoon – I should warn her I shall be coming home, if she’s not already heard.”

“She hasn’t mentioned it, so she might not have heard yet,” answered Charles, “She’s around here somewhere, so I expect she’ll stick her head in here later, you can tell her then.”

“I will, thanks,” replied Felicity. “It’ll be good to get home again.”

“What you don’t want to stay in here to meet any eligible doctors?” He was interested to see the flush rising on Felicity’s cheeks, as she denied that was the case. “I hear Dr Stewart is back from his holiday tomorrow.” He added, conversationally, watching her closely, but was disappointed to see there was no reaction to the statement. He decided not to pursue the question further and changed the subject, although, he reflected, it would be worth dropping a word in someone’s ear, perhaps Len’s, if he got the chance before he left.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:49 pm; edited 1 time in total

#147: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 4:56 pm

I really like this Charles! Thanks Liz!

#148: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 7:11 pm

at Charles. Bless him. Glad Fliss seems to be on the raod to recovery too, both mentally and physically

#149: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 9:17 pm

Chaz the romantic! Thank you.

#150: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 9:30 pm

Thanks Liz. I love the family feeling that comes accross in this drabble.

#151: Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull

Posted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 9:39 pm

Ah - just re-discovered this one Embarassed

Glad to see that Catherine's memory has partly returned. Although what's in her past? Is it something to do with the kidnapping? Maybe she's been bugged in England about it, and that's the reason for the name change? JackieJ

#152: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 11:33 am

Felicity slept well that night and in the morning she was told she could go home. She was packing her few belongings together, in readiness, when Anthony came by to visit her.

“You’re leaving?” he asked, disappointment clear in his voice.

“They say I can go home.” Felicity answered. “I can’t say I’ll be sorry to get out of here.”

“Can I see you again after you’ve gone home?” he asked, hopefully.

“I’d like that,” answered Felicity, “why don’t you visit us at Freudesheim?”

Anthony looked slightly awkward. “I’m not sure if I’d be welcome there, you know, following the accident.”

Felicity looked at him, “But you weren’t driving.”

“I know, but even so, I’m not sure your father would be pleased to see me. Maybe in a while, when your brother and sister aren’t still in hospital, but I can’t help thinking that until then it might be a mistake.”

“Well, I don’t think it would be,” replied Felicity, “ but I can understand you not wanting to meet my parents, particularly as at the moment that would mean the family en masse, and that can be quite scary!”

“I don’t want you to think I’m a dodgy character, not wanting to meet your parents.” Anthony assured her, “I’m not like that at all. I just don’t want to cause any trouble, but I don’t want to go away and never see you again.”

“I don’t want to never see you again, either,” answered Felicity, “I’ll phone you after I get home and we’ll arrange something if that makes it easier?” Anthony smiled at her.

“Thanks for understanding.” He reached out and gently touched the side of her face. “I’ll hope to see you soon.” And he was gone, leaving Felicity rooted to the spot, holding one hand to her cheek.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:51 pm; edited 1 time in total

#153: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 12:03 pm

Awwww! Romance - how fine. Thanks Liz.

#154: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 1:33 pm

That was lovely!

#155: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 1:50 pm

“I don’t understand, Jack,” said Joey, “Felicity is coming home, but they’re keeping Ce… Catherine in although she’s got her memory back.”

“Felicity is fine, she was just suffering from shock, and feelings of guilt, but wasn’t harmed.” Jack put his arm around his wife, “But Catherine was knocked on the head, and although her memory is back, the doctors aren’t happy with her progress, she’s having disturbed nights, which is not good for her recovery.” He knew Catherine took after his wife, being highly strung, and although he didn’t let Jo know, he was worried that continued distress would severely impair Catherine’s recovery. If Jo knew that and went in fussing it would not help at all. “It’s just a matter of a bit more time, and she’s in the best hands there, you know she is.”

“I know, but I can’t help worrying Jack, she’s my little girl and she’s obviously not been happy or she wouldn’t have changed her name. I feel I’ve failed her.”

“You’ve not failed her Jo,” Jack assured her, “we just need to be patient, wait for her to recover, welcome her home, and let her know we’re here for her to talk to if she needs it. Unconditional acceptance. That’s what she needs.”

“She’s our child Jack. She has unconditional acceptance. You know that. There’s nothing she, or any of the rest of them, could do to make me turn away.”

“I know that.” Jack answered. “It might be that we just need to convince Catherine of it.”

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:53 pm; edited 1 time in total

#156: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 3:22 pm

Good point, Jack! Lovely J and J bit.

#157: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 4:18 pm

I only hope that Jo doesn't mother Catherine too much!

#158: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 4:50 pm

hurrah for the romance! I love Joey and Jack in this, nice to see them as I imagine them to be rather than how they are so often portrayed! Thanks Liz, fab as always

#159: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 9:24 pm

Thank you Liz!!! Any chance of more please?

#160: Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull

Posted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 9:47 pm

Two lovely posts Liz, romance from both generations as well. Thank you JackieJ

#161: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 11:46 pm

Vikki, as I'm giving you a little more of this - please will you post more of New Family? Very Happy

Catherine looked up from the tapestry Con had brought in for her. She found it helped soothe her, the neat diagonal stitches, in, out, in out. While she focused on the action of the needle her mind could shut out other thoughts. She paused in her stitches as Felicity came in the room.“I hear they’re letting you out of here.” Catherine said cheerfully.

“Well, they needed the bed space,” quipped Felicity, “I hope you’re not going to be in here much longer.”

“They haven’t told me how long.” Catherine replied. “They want to be sure my memory recovery is complete and do various tests and things I think. Hopefully not much longer.” She paused a moment, then “Come and visit me, won’t you?” she blurted out.

“I will.” It was a promise.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:54 pm; edited 1 time in total

#162: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Feb 06, 2005 9:45 am

Thank you Liz. Nice to see Catherine and felicity are friends once more.

#163: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Sun Feb 06, 2005 10:04 am

Thanks Liz, glad that Felicity and Catherine's relationship has improved.

#164: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Sun Feb 06, 2005 2:47 pm

yay for the romance and Im glad Catherine and Felicity are getting on again Very Happy

Thanks Liz.

#165: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sun Feb 06, 2005 8:30 pm

LizB wrote:

Vikki, as I'm giving you a little more of this - please will you post more of New Family? Very Happy

Well, just for you, I'll post a wee bit tonight! Wink

Very glad Felicity and Catherine have made up!

#166: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 9:47 am

Thanks Vikki

“Aha, I was wondering when my favourite heroine was going to come and visit me!” Mike greeted Felicity as she came into his room.

“What?”

“Well, from all accounts you probably saved my life.”

“I… well… I…”

“Come here.” Felicity came nearer and Mike held her close in a giant hug. “Thanks sis,” he murmured in her ear. Both of them had moist eyes when they drew apart.

“I’ve come to say goodbye, they’re letting me go home today.” Felicity told him, when she had composed herself.

“Well, don’t overdo things will you,” Mike told her. “I’m fine,” she assured him, “it was just shock, and I’m okay now, honest.”

“So how are you going to amuse yourself once you’re out of this fine establishment?”

“I shall be coming to visit, I’ve promised Catherine, and I’ve set myself a mission – I’m going to make Laura see that she and Felix are perfect for each other. She doesn’t see it at the moment, which is why she turned him down, but I’ll find a way to make her see that she made a mistake and they’re right for each other.”

Mike hoped his voice gave no indication that his heart had dropped. “So, you and Catherine, you’re okay now?” he asked.

“Yes, well, you know me and my temper,” Felicity said sheepishly, “I shouldn’t have said half, if not more, of what I did. But we’ve sorted that now, and if she wants to be called Catherine, then I’ll call her that, though it beats me why she wanted to change her name.” She paused as a memory came to her, “She had a dream the other night that left her terrified, but I can’t see how that could be anything to do with it.”

“Maybe it was just a nightmare,” suggested Mike.

“Maybe,” but she didn’t sound convinced.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:55 pm; edited 1 time in total

#167: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 11:27 am

Oh dear

Felicity's 'helping' is not going to help things much at all I don't think! Thanks Liz

#168: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 11:56 am

Hope Felicity doesn't make things worse - Laura will start to think the family are mad if Felicity isn't careful. Better to introduce Felix to some of her friends so he can meet someone else!

#169: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 12:45 pm

lots of nice posts, I hope Felicity doesn't interfere too much though as Mike and Laura would be so cute together (providing Felix manages to find someone equally lovely) Thanks Liz

#170: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 3:19 pm

*wibble* Please let things work out so that they're all happy!!!!

#171: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 6:12 pm

Poor Mike -and how noble that he said nothing against Felicity's plans. Thanks Liz.

#172: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 8:27 pm

Felicity seems to be a bit of a control freak to me! Shocked

#173: Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 9:16 pm

She's probably still feeling all guilty. Hopefully she'll be able to work it out. *still wondering what's troubling Catherine* JackieJ

#174: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 9:23 pm

Steve drove Erica, Ruey, Phil and Geoff to visit Mike and Catherine, and left them to walk back home, while he drove Felicity back in the car. Felicity was rather subdued during the journey. Despite her talk with the triplets, she was worried what kind of reception she might get. “Auntie Fliss!” Jackie and Emmie flung themselves rapturously on her the instant she got out of the car.

“Hey, careful, you’ll knock me over!” she protested, and allowed them to grab a hand each and lead her up the path. Once in the house, she went through another round of hugs from siblings, and finally was held tight by Joey. By the time she was released, she was somewhat tousled, but any doubts she had entertained were put to rest, and with a lightened heart she allowed herself to be led to the salon for coffee.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:56 pm; edited 1 time in total

#175: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 10:00 pm

Pleased for Felicity.

#176: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 12:25 am

Glad Felicity is welcomed home but hope she keeos her nose out of Felix's life. Thanks Liz.

#177: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 9:42 am

Yay that Felicity got a warm welcome!

#178: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 11:55 am

Thanks Liz, glad she got a good welcome home

#179: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 3:21 pm

“Do you really hate being asked if you’re my sister?” Phil’s question came out of the blue and caught Catherine by surprise.

“I don’t hate being your sister.” Catherine assured her, “And I’m proud of you and what you’ve done.”

“But?”

“But sometimes it’s not so easy if people see me simply as an extension of you.” Catherine tried to explain without giving anything away. “It’s like I don’t have my own identity, and, well, people expect certain things from me simply because you’re my sister.”

“You mean like when I was 11 and Susannah Roberts pretended to be good friends with me just because she was crazy about Mamma’s books?” asked Phil. “I remember when I heard her talking about me calling me the silly little ginger cripple. I must have cried myself to sleep for weeks afterwards!”

“That sort of thing,” said Catherine, “I remember when that happened, but I hadn’t realised it had upset you for so long. If I’d known, I’d have done something worse.”

“Something worse?” asked Phil, looking puzzled, then with sudden enlightenment “Catherine it wasn’t you who put dye in her toothpaste was it?”

“Well, she couldn’t be so cruel to you and get away with it,” protested Catherine. “And it came off after a few days, but I’d have done something to make it last longer, or something else if I’d known how long it upset for you.”

“Well, I didn’t want to make a fuss,” explained Phil. “I didn’t even realise you knew about it.”

“Well, we Maynards have a tradition of looking out for the younger members of the family – and I wasn’t going to let her get away with it.”

“How did you do it?” Phil asked curiously.

“I, er, borrowed, one of Papa’s syringes, put some food colouring in it, and injected it into her toothpaste. Do you remember what she looked like!” Both girls convulsed with laughter at the memory. Ruey, joining them at that moment asked what it was about, but they were both laughing too much to explain, so she contented herself with a pithy comment about their sanity, or lack of it, before telling Phil they had to get a move on because Evelyn would be needing her soon, and anyway it would be lunchtime before long.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:57 pm; edited 1 time in total

#180: Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 3:36 pm

Oh, I like it, dyeing another girls teeth because she'd been horrid to Phil. Somethings still bothering her though. Thanks Liz JackieJ

#181: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 3:59 pm

*g* Good on Cecil! Thanks Liz

#182: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 4:50 pm

Good for Catherine/Cecil, standing up for her little sis!!!!

#183: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 6:45 pm

Lovely revenge - and how nice that she's able to talk to Phil. Laughing

#184: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 10:34 pm

Perfectly reasonable thing to do - Susannah clearly had a nasty mouth to say such things about Phil, so Cecil (as she was then) just showed everyone! It's what younger siblings are for - you push them around to get them ready for real life, but you protect them from anyone else Smile

#185: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 9:52 am

Left alone once more, Catherine leafed through a magazine, still with the occasional giggle as she remembered the revenge she had enacted on the girl who had dared to hurt her sister. Ever since Phil’s illness when she was a small child she had known she must take care of her younger sister, must always look after her and protect her. Even now, that lingered. Phil could not know what had happened. It wouldn’t be fair on her. It would probably be best if nobody in the family found out, but how she wished she could go to someone for advice.

Her eyes focused suddenly on the page in front of her. Maybe there was someone she could ask. With sudden decision she picked up her writing pad and after a few drafts (the discarded ones ripped into tiny shreds), she had something she was happy with. Once she had finished she scribbled a couple of other letters, one to her cousin Daphne and one to her Auntie Rob. Once she had addressed and stamped all three, she put them in a careful pile, with Daphne’s on the top and Robin’s on the bottom and put them aside to ask the nurse to post, hoping she would not notice that the middle letter was addressed to Dear Lucy at a well-known women’s magazine.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:58 pm; edited 1 time in total

#186: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 10:31 am

Thank you Liz. Glad Catherine is telling some people. Hope we find out soon.

#187: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 10:44 am

thanks Liz Really glad Cecil is asking for advice - hope her letter to 'dear lucy' doesn't get intercepted!

#188: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 10:52 am

Glad Catherine is asking for advice. I love her protectiveness of Phil!! Laughing

#189: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 11:15 am

Hope they're all in the right envelopes! Whatever happened, Catherine has done something to protect Phil. Who's going to protect Catherine?

#190: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 2:00 pm

Caught up at last! Thanks for all the lovely posts. I hope Felicity doesn't cause too much bother for Felix, Laura and Mike! I hope Cathering gets her problems sorted. I hope Mike and Laura can get together OK. I hope Felicity and Andrew continue to get to know one another. I hope Felix can get over Laura - with or without a new girlfriend. Hopefully yours, PatMac

#191: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 2:55 pm

Hmmm, wondering what she's wrtten to 'dear Lucy'about. Thanks Liz.

#192: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 5:11 pm

Also wonders what she has been writing to people about!

#193: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 9:15 pm

Thank you, Liz. Very Happy

#194: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 10:37 am

Mike was sunk in gloom. Was Felicity right? Were Felix and Laura perfect for each other, but she just hadn’t realised it yet? Would Felicity succeed in her matchmaking – she was pretty determined about it? He felt disgusted with himself. Felix deserved to be happy. He had had his chance at happiness, and just because that had ended abruptly after a few wonderful years he shouldn’t begrudge the chance to his brother. He closed his eyes and thought about Catalina. She had been everything he had ever wanted, ever dreamed of, and although she had gone, she had left behind two beautiful children, the joy of his life. He couldn’t deny his brother his turn to be happy. If Laura was right for Felix, then Mike would wish them both well.

His thoughts were interrupted by a nurse entering with his medication. “Here’s your painkillers, Mike,” she said cheerfully, “let’s give you these and then it’s time to settle you for the night.” He obediently swallowed the pills and allowed her to plump his pillows and fuss around him for a few minutes. Then she left, turning out the light, “Sleep well, Mike,” she pulled the door closed. Mike closed his eyes, but sleep was a long time coming.

Last edited by LizB on Fri Mar 18, 2005 7:59 pm; edited 1 time in total

#195: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 10:39 am

Oh poor Mike!

#196: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 10:46 am

Oh poor Mike. Sad

Somehow think Felix will never be the 'right man' for Laura Confused

#197: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 10:47 am

What Josie said. Thanks Liz (edited for rubbish typing!)

#198: Author: Ray, Location: Bristol, England

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:01 am

What is it about us and being mean to Mike?... ) Though I don't know whether I've said it before, I'm going to say it now: This is a really excellent drabble. Very much looking forward to seeing more of what happened to Catherine Smile

Ray *eager*

#199: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:07 am

Poor, noble Mike. Thanks Liz.

#200: Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 1:21 pm