The CBB
http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/

Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=9275
Author:  Vick [ Sun Apr 03, 2011 8:22 am ]
Post subject:  Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
And on we go....

A week later, Jem arrived in Switzerland. Jack met him at his hotel, before they went on to the hospital. Once there, Jack went to see Jo and warn her of Jem’s arrival, whilst Jem went to consult with the doctor. When he arrived at her room, he found Jo asleep. Normally, he would leave her be and just wait quietly for her to wake of her own accord, but he couldn’t afford to do that this time. He woke her gently and warned her. He hoped she had taken his words on board, as she immediately fell back to sleep. He stayed with her, holding her hand and hoping that Jem arrived before visiting time was over.

He breathed a sigh of relief when Jem and the hospital doctor arrived just as the bell rang for the end of visiting. Jack stood as they entered the room and formally shook hands with them. Jo slept on and, in consideration to her, they spoke quietly at the other side of the room. Eventually, Jem went over to see her. She had woken while they were talking and was lying quietly. She said nothing, though, and Jem quickly looked at her for any signs of distress. On seeing none, he told her that he wanted to do a quick examination to satisfy himself that she would be fit enough to travel back to England with him. Jo just nodded, and allowed him to do his job. Once he had finished, he thanked her and left the room, along with the doctor. Jack remained behind. He came to sit back down next to her and took her hand once more.

“Well done, Jo,” he murmured. “With any luck, we’ll be going home to England in the next few days.

“I hope so. I miss everyone,” she replied, sadly.

“I know you do, but even when you get there, you will have to go to the Sanatorium, you know,” he told her, gently. “You aren’t well enough to go anywhere else.”

“I know,” she acknowledged, before yawning.

“Get some more sleep. You’re going to need your energy for the journey. I’ll see you tomorrow.” Jack stood once more and, with a final squeeze of her hand, left the room. He was just leaving the hospital, when Jem caught him up. They walked quickly back to the hotel. Once there, they both sat down with a drink.

“Well?” Jack asked.

“She’s in a bad way,” Jem replied, slowly. “I’m not sure whether we should move her, yet.”

“We have to. She’s scared to be here. She thinks that the Gestapo are going to come and find us, even though we’re safe, now.” Jem looked thoughtful at this. He knew Jo well enough to realise that her vivid imagination would always tell against her in stressful situations. He had also read her notes and been told that she had to be given sleeping pills each night, otherwise she woke the whole ward up, screaming in her nightmares.

“Did you know she was being given sleeping pills each night?” Jem asked.

“No, they won’t tell me anything,” Jack replied, bitterly, before adding, “I’m not surprised though. She was screaming loud enough to wake the dead that first night and thrashing around pretty violently.”

“In that case, we have to move her. If she’s living in constant fear, she won’t improve by being here. That imagination of hers is going against her need for complete rest.”

“Thank you.”

“Have you been checked?” Jem asked, suddenly changing the subject.

“Yes. They came back clear. Do you know if the others were all clear?”

“They are, thank goodness. Even Nell Wilson’s foot is improving and she is walking a little again.”

Jack looked at his watch, and rose. “I’ll have to get back or Frau von Hessel will be wondering where I am. Will you be coming to see Jo tomorrow?”

“Yes. I need to make arrangements to get her transferred into my care. Luckily, the doctor there doesn’t know that we’re related and, as long as Jo doesn’t give the game away, there should be no problem.”

“I don’t think she will. I warned her before you came in the room today.” Jem smiled at this. He knew that Jack needed to be away from central Europe as much as Jo did, even though he said nothing.

“Thank you for getting them all out of Austria, Jack.”

“I couldn’t do anything else. There was no way they would have survived, otherwise. Now, we have to get Jo home, safely, and that’s your show.” Jack turned and departed for Frau von Hessel’s at this, leaving Jem alone. He sat back down and ordered another drink, before he went to the hotel Speisesaal for Abendessen.

The next morning found Jem back at the hospital, making arrangements to have Jo’s medical care transferred to him. It was swiftly arranged. The Swiss doctor was keen to remove an infectious tuberculosis patient from his hospital. Jem went to see Jo, alone, once he had finished the arrangements. When he entered, she had her eyes closed.

“Jo?” he asked, quietly, in case she was sleeping. She opened her eyes. “How are you?”

“I want to go home,” she whispered.

“I know. I’ve just made the arrangements and I’ll be taking you with me in the next day or so.” Jo managed a faint smile at this news. “I’m proud of you, Jo. By all accounts, you’ve managed an incredible journey, and been sensible enough to avoid passing your illness on to the others. Try to rest now, and don’t worry. We’re going to take you home.” He gave her hand a squeeze at this, and left.
Author:  PaulineS [ Sun Apr 03, 2011 8:43 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II.
Thanks Vicky. Glad they are going to get her to safety.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Sun Apr 03, 2011 10:10 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II.
Thank you, nice to see Jo hopefully moving soon.
Author:  jmc [ Sun Apr 03, 2011 11:51 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II.
Hope the move goes all right and that it doesn't affect Jo too badly.

Thanks Vick.
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Sun Apr 03, 2011 1:51 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II.
I can't help wondering if Jem isn't storing up trouble for himself by not telling them the whole truth. Yes, I think I'll wibble about that, because I know Jo will be fine in the end!

Thankyou :D
Author:  roversgirl [ Sun Apr 03, 2011 8:33 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II.
I'm glad they are going to move her. Thanks! :-)
Author:  Abi [ Sun Apr 03, 2011 8:47 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II.
Glad they're moving Jo, and that no-one else caught it.
Author:  Miss Di [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 5:19 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II.
See, I knew Jem would come riding to the rescue!
Author:  Vick [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 7:41 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II.
Thanks for your comments :D

Two days later saw Jo being put into an ambulance, ready for the long journey to Guernsey. Jack was there to see her into it. He would not travel with her, leaving that to the nurse and Jem, but he would be at the hotel to meet them each day. The journey was going to be slow, as Jo was extremely ill, and needed to be kept as quiet as possible. Once he saw the ambulance set off, he returned to collect his things from Frau von Hessel’s house. Thanking her profusely for her kind hospitality, he went to the station to get the next train to Zurich, where they intended to spend the first night.

When Jo arrived in Zurich that afternoon, it was obvious that she was in pain. Jem got her to the suite he had engaged as fast as possible and left the nurse to assist her into bed. Once there, Jem gave her some painkillers and left her to sleep, the nurse watching over her. He spoke to Jack in the sitting room, where they would not disturb her.

“We’re going to have to take this journey slowly. She really isn’t in any condition to be moved. How she managed that trek is amazing” Jem said.

“She knew she had no choice,” Jack replied, simply. Jem looked at him and noticed that he was tired out, too. He said nothing, though he resolved to ensure Jack had a good break before he would be allowed back to work.

It took them another four days to cross Switzerland and France to St. Malo. Once there, it was only a ferry-trip to Guernsey. They were too late to catch it when they arrived, so Jem booked tickets for the next day. Jack went to sit with Jo, as she slept. He knew it was his last chance to spend time with her. When they reached Guernsey, he would be busy working and she would be a patient once more. He would find it hard to treat her as such, especially after all they had gone through. He wanted to be able to support her through her illness, as her fiancé, not be the person treating her for it. He also realised that he wouldn’t be able to sit with her every afternoon, as he had been doing at the hospital, as visiting would be twice a week, and her sister would want to visit as well.

He had got this far in his thoughts, when he suddenly noticed that Jo had woken up and was watching him. He tried to smile at her, but realised that he couldn’t. He had reached his own limit of endurance. He laid his head on the bed, finally letting his own emotion show as the tears fell. Jo put her hand on his shoulder. She had never seen him upset before and it worried her, but she knew that he, too, had gone through so much in the past few months.

“I love you, Jack,” she whispered to him. “I’m not going anywhere, and as soon as I’m able, I intend to marry you.”

Jack lifted his head to look at her. He saw that she meant every word she had just said to him.

“That means so much to me, Jo,” he said, softly. He took her hand in his and squeezed it. She managed to feebly squeeze back.

“I know you won’t be able to spend as much time with me when we get there, but promise me you’ll at least pop your head around the door when you’re in.”

“Of course I will. How could I not? You have to promise me something in return, though.” Jo nodded at this. “Promise me that you’ll do everything in your power to get better and that you won’t do anything which will set you back.”

“I promise,” Jo said, tears misting her eyes. Jack squeezed her hand again.

“I love you, Jo.” He stood up, still holding her hand. “Get some sleep now. Tomorrow we’re going to be on English soil once more.” He let go and left the room abruptly, not even stopping to speak to Jem, who was on his way to check on Jo.

*****

The next day, Jo was taken over the channel to Guernsey and straight to the hospital there. She was given a single room at one end of the building, where it was quiet. Jem intended to build a self-contained sanatorium but, until he had permission from the authorities, he had been given a small side wing in the hospital.

Once she had been settled into the bed, Jack came to sit with her for a while. She smiled at him, holding out her hand. He took it and returned the smile.

“At least you know what to expect this time around,” he said. Jo just nodded. She also knew how long the hours seemed when she was unable to do anything for herself. She yawned.

“Go to sleep, Jo. You don’t need to stay awake for me.” Jo obediently closed her eyes and slept. Jack just stayed there, watching her and wishing he could do more for her. At least she was safe now, he thought vaguely to himself. He slumped in his chair, his head on the bed, and fell asleep, too.
Author:  CareBear [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 7:59 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
Great story, I'm glad they've got to Guernsey safely. Fingers crossed Jo will be well again soon
Author:  PaulineS [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 8:04 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
Thanks for getting Jack and Joey on to British soil. Hope Joey is well before they have to move again.
Author:  Alison H [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 8:21 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
Glad they've made it safely to Guernsey.
Author:  jmc [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 8:53 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
At least they are safe for now. Hope now Jo can now get rid of he nightmares. Thanks.
Author:  brie [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 10:25 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
Thank you so much for the daily updates of this Vick. I don't think I have commented on this thread before i am ashamed to say but its the first drabble i go to check for updates on whilst i'm lurking. Jo and Jack are so sweet here, and even Jem has my sympathy...
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 11:16 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
Thanks. Am now wibbling for the future with triplets and the escape to England
Author:  Abi [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 11:29 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
Glad they're safe, but poor Jo - well, both of them, really - having to go through all of that again.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 11:45 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
Thanks again, feeling so sorry for Jo having to go through that again, but glad she is at least nearer home.
Author:  Jools [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 1:05 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
I'm really enjoying this - it is so beautifully written and so knowledgeable. Thank you.
Author:  shesings [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 2:04 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
Great to see Part 2. This is so beautifully written.
Author:  Chris S [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 2:10 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
Well done Vick - you've actually made me like Joey!
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 4:12 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
I can't help thinking of various reactions if Jo were found to be pregnant with triplets now... :lol: ... *ducks into gutter*

Thankyou!
Author:  M [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 4:41 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
I think there's time still. It's only early summer and the trips don't arrive until Nov the following year.
Author:  roversgirl [ Mon Apr 04, 2011 6:58 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
Glad they've made it there safely and that Jo is ready for the long battle. Thanks :-)
Author:  Vick [ Tue Apr 05, 2011 7:33 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/4/11
Many thanks for all your comments :D

My plot bunny seems to have done a runner at the moment, though. He's possibly been blown away in the wind we have up here in the Pennines :roll: If anyone sees him, please send him back to Yorkshire.

When Jem came to check on Jo an hour later, he found them both fast asleep. He woke Jack, quietly. When they had left the room, Jem told him to go home and sleep properly. Jack looked at him, questioningly. He had no idea where home was. Jem realised this and offered him a lift, which was gratefully accepted. He drove Jack to a small cottage not far from the hospital. He handed him a set of keys, telling him that Madge had made a bed up and there were basics in the kitchen. Jack thanked him and went to the door. Once inside, he quickly found the bed and dropped into it. He was asleep again immediately, never waking for the next twenty-four hours.

When he finally woke, it wasn’t because he had had enough sleep; it was because someone was knocking on the door. He climbed out of bed and slowly made his way downstairs to answer it. Jem was standing there. Jack just held the door open and stepped back to let him inside, closing the door behind him.

“Did I wake you?” Jem asked him. Jack just nodded. He was still tired and wanted to go back to sleep. “I just dropped by to invite you to dinner with us.”

“Thank you, but no. I don’t think I’ll be particularly good company at the moment.”

“Of course. We understand. Another time, maybe?” Jack nodded again. Jem took the hint and left. Jack went into the kitchen and made himself a drink, taking it back up to the bedroom. He drank it and then lay back down to sleep again.

Jack did very little else for the next week. He was exhausted. He had spent so much time looking after Jo, that he had neglected himself. He ate little and slept most of the time. He didn’t even have the energy to clean himself up and had not shaved since he had arrived at the cottage. Even Jo was pushed to the back of his mind as he tried to concentrate on getting as much sleep as possible.

Back in the hospital, Jo was starting to worry. Her sister had visited, whom she was overjoyed to see, but Jack hadn’t been for over a week now. When Jem came to check on her during his rounds late one night, he found her wide awake. He came into the room and sat down.

“What’s wrong, Jo?” he asked her. She looked at him, tears in her eyes.

“I’m worried about Jack,” she confided. “He hasn’t been in over a week. Is he okay?”

“I’m sure he’s fine,” Jem replied. He was also beginning to worry at Jack’s disappearance. It was so out of character. “He’s probably been busy trying to get himself settled in and work out the island. I’m sure he’ll come and visit you soon.” Jo didn’t look convinced by this.

“That doesn’t sound like Jack. Will you go and check on him for me, please?”

Jem nodded. “I’ll go round tomorrow afternoon and see him.”

“Thank you.”

“Try to sleep now. It’s far too late for you to be awake.”

“I’ll try.” Jem left her alone once more. She tried to sleep, but found she couldn’t. She was desperate to know that Jack was all right. She stared into the darkness, watched the dawn come creeping around the edges of the curtains, and still she did not sleep. When morning arrived, Jem looked in before leaving for home.

“Have you slept at all, Jo?” he asked her. She just shook her head. Her imagination had been working overtime and she was beginning to fear the worst. Jem realised that, until she knew Jack was okay, she would not be able to rest properly. He quickly left the room, re-appearing a few minutes later with some tablets for her.

“Take these, Jo,” he told her, handing her them and some water from the bedside cabinet.

“What are they?” she asked him, suspiciously.

“Sleeping pills. If you don’t rest properly, you won’t be able to see anyone, let alone Jack.”

“I don’t want them,” she said, shaking her head at him. Jem continued to stand there, unmoved.

“Fine. If you don’t take them, then you won’t be in a position to have a visitor tomorrow. Nor will I tell you how Jack is, when I find out.”

“Jem! You can’t mean that!” she cried.

“I mean every word. If you want to make yourself worse, and end up in complete isolation, then carry on as you are. If you don’t, then take them and go to sleep and I’ll bring you news of Jack this evening.” Jo knew she had lost. She reluctantly choked the tablets down, knowing that Jem would carry out his threat if she didn’t. Jem didn’t comment further. He just pulled the covers up a little further and left, informing the nurse on duty to let her sleep and to give her something to eat when she finally woke.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Tue Apr 05, 2011 7:50 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
If I see a TB plot bunny flying past, will lasso and send back up to Yorkshire for you. I would say they could just be hiding out with Jack trying to get some sleep, it's sad enough for us to read, it must be a bit draining to write. Hope some rest gives your plot bunny a revival, but thank you for everything so far anyway if it needs a bit of a break :-)
Author:  brie [ Tue Apr 05, 2011 7:57 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
Thanks so much Vick. I hope inspiration comes back- this is my favourite early morning read. (Jack)
Author:  Alison H [ Tue Apr 05, 2011 8:00 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
Hoping that Jack's just off making wedding arrangements.

I'll look out for the bunny - if the wind's blown him over the Pennines, he should end up somewhere round here sooner or later :D .
Author:  jmc [ Tue Apr 05, 2011 8:06 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
Poor Jack. Unfortunately that often happens to the carers. I like Alison's suggestion of the wedding arrangements though.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Tue Apr 05, 2011 8:37 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
I'm sure Jack is recovering from everything now someone else is in charge and he has a chance to relax
Author:  JB [ Tue Apr 05, 2011 8:42 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
I don't think the wind's strong enough to blow him up here but we're going to Huddersfield this evening so i'll keep a look out.

I wouldn't want the daily updates to stop.
Author:  PaulineS [ Tue Apr 05, 2011 10:30 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
Thank s Vicky. Hope that Jem can get Jack to wash and shave. I am sure Jack needs a decent meal by now.
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Tue Apr 05, 2011 3:58 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
And if he heads down South, he'll meet me at some point, and I'll be sure to send him straight back up to you! Poor Jack, it seems like everyone's worrying so much about Joey that no-one's really thought of his stress.

Thankyou!
Author:  roversgirl [ Tue Apr 05, 2011 5:48 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
Poor Jack and Joey. If PB turns up in France, I'll point him Yorkshireways! Thanks :-)
Author:  Luisa [ Tue Apr 05, 2011 7:44 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
hope PB doesn't make it to this part of the Midlands - 6 cats might be too much.
Hope s/he and Jack turn up soon.
Author:  Abi [ Tue Apr 05, 2011 8:14 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
Poor Jack and Joey. :(

*goes on Plot Bunny hunt, complete with carrots and large net*
Author:  emma t [ Tue Apr 05, 2011 8:36 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
Just had a lovely catch up - been dying to come in and read, but been working again these past days...loving that you've now shown us how Jack is now reacting to the strain of it all!There was so much pressure...
Author:  Liz K [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 12:27 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
So begins the dosing of Joey..........................
Author:  Miss Di [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 6:13 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
I'm bunny hunting with the Delicious Tea Cake I just made. Stuff the work morning tea tomorrow, this is far more important!
Author:  Vick [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 7:38 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 5/4/11
Blimey, Miss Di! I hope he hasn't made it all the way to Australia!!! :shock: Luckily, he reappeared last night, so he can't have. :lol:

Have a little more...

It was late afternoon when Jem finally knocked on the door to Jack’s cottage. He waited a few minutes before knocking again, louder this time. He was about to knock for a third time when he finally heard movement from inside. Eventually, the door was opened and Jack stood there, wearing a dressing gown and unshaven. He looked haggard, despite the beard covering his face. Jem was worried. He had never seen Jack look anything but respectable, even when he went to fetch Jo back from Switzerland. The man standing in front of him wasn’t the same person. Jack just opened the door further and motioned him inside. Once he had closed the door, he led the way to the kitchen and sank into one of the chairs there. Jem followed him, sitting down opposite.

“How are you?” Jem asked.

“Exhausted,” Jack replied, shortly.

“Have you eaten today?” Jack shook his head. “Do you know how long you’ve been here?”

“A few days?” Jack hazarded. His brain was still foggy and he couldn’t work out where this conversation was leading.

“Over a week,” Jem told him. “No one has seen you in that time and people are starting to worry about your disappearance.” He didn’t specify who, leaving Jack to work that out for himself. Jack rested his head in his hands as he tried to work out how he had managed to lose a week and who would be worrying about him. Jem watched, silently. Eventually, Jack rose from his chair and busied himself making a drink for them both. When he had finished, and was sitting back with a strong coffee in his hand, he finally looked at Jem once more.

“How is Jo?” he asked.

“Worried about you,” Jem replied, bluntly. Jack just nodded. He understood Jem’s meaning. “It’s visiting day tomorrow. I think she would like to see you,” he added.

“I’ll be there. When do I start back at work?”

“You’re not ready to come back, yet. You need to make sure you’re fully fit first.” Jack looked ready to argue this point, but decided against it. He knew that Jem was right.

“In that case, I should go home for a few days and see my family.”

“Good idea, but clean yourself up a bit first, eh?” Jack ran his hand through his beard, and nodded. Jem’s intervention had made him realise he had been neglecting his own health. Jem stood up at this and prepared to leave. Jack thanked him, promising he would go to see Jo the next day.

Once Jem had left, Jack went slowly back upstairs and into the bathroom. He ran himself a bath and sank into it. Once he had finished, he shaved and felt much better for it. He discovered he was hungry and went to look for something to eat. On finding nothing in the kitchen, he decided to go and investigate his surroundings, in the hope of finding a hotel restaurant. Just as he was getting ready to leave, a knock came at the door. He opened it to find Marie, the Russell’s maid, standing there, her arms full of groceries. He immediately tried to take them, but she refused, stating that she could manage and to go and sit down until she called him for dinner. She bustled off to the kitchen and he heard the rattle of pots and pans. He was thankful that she had appeared, saving him from having to search for somewhere to eat. Eventually, she called him in, and set a lovely meal in front of him. He ate everything she gave him and he thanked her, gratefully. She just smiled at him and left once she had finished washing up.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 7:41 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 6/4/11
Yay! A Vick update to start the day :-)

And such a nice one. Glad they are looking after Jack. :-)
Author:  Alison H [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 7:59 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 6/4/11
The journey must have been so stressful for both Jack and Gottfried. Life as a man in a CS book can't always have been as easy as it seemed.
Author:  JS [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 8:14 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 6/4/11
Good old Marie - but does that mean it was beans on toast for Madge and Jem? :lol:
Thanks Vick.
Author:  Joanne [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 8:48 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 6/4/11
I expect Marie had already prepared a full meal for Jem and Madge before she went over to Jack's!

Thanks again, glad to see Jack has finally woken up. I was beginning to get worried!
Author:  PaulineS [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 9:37 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 6/4/11
Glad they gave Jack food as well as encouraging to bath and shave. I am sure part of his exhaustion was lack of food. Looking forward to seeing Jack and Joey's meeting at visiting.

Thanks for the update.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 10:48 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 6/4/11
I'm really glad Marie went over to cook a meal for Jack. He needs someone to look after him
Author:  brie [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 10:50 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 6/4/11
Thanks Vick. I feel so sorry for Jo and Jack. Jo is so worried and yet can't do anything to help. She must feel so helpless
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 2:37 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 6/4/11
Good old Marie - she's better not try it too often, though, or Madge might start realising how easy it is to cope without her :wink:

Thankyou! I'm glad the bunny found its way back, I did line the route with carrots and lettuce just in case.
Author:  roversgirl [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 7:29 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 6/4/11
I'm glad to see this side of things as it makes it much more realistic. Thanks :-)
Author:  emma t [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 8:28 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 6/4/11
Good to see they are looking after Jack too - looking forward to the next peice Vick! :)
Author:  Abi [ Wed Apr 06, 2011 8:47 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 6/4/11
Glad Jack is being looked after. It must have been a truly horrible experience for him.
Author:  Vick [ Thu Apr 07, 2011 7:37 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 6/4/11
Many thanks for all your comments and plot bunny hunting :D

The next afternoon saw Jack walking to the hospital to see Jo. He hadn’t seen her in over a week and he felt guilty about staying away so long. It had suddenly occurred to him the previous evening that if she had been worrying about him, she may have made herself worse. He hoped not, since Jem hadn’t mentioned it. He realised that he needed to buy himself a car, as well. When he did go back to work, he wouldn’t be able to walk all the time, in case he was needed in an emergency. He had spent the morning sorting his affairs out at the bank, so he had access to some money. He didn’t expect to receive anything whilst he wasn’t working and he needed to be able to pay someone to come and cook and clean for him.

When he arrived at the hospital, he felt better for the fresh air. He walked rather slowly towards Jo’s room, suddenly feeling a little apprehensive. He hoped she was improving, but didn’t dare raise his hopes too much. If she had been worrying about him, he knew she wouldn’t have been doing much resting. He reached her room at this point. Slowly, he opened the door and peered round it. Jo was lying quietly and had her eyes closed. He came in and sat down by the bed, examining her face as he did so. He noticed faint circles under her eyes and was concerned about her.

“Jo?” he whispered. She opened her eyes and looked at him. As she realised who it was, he saw tears forming. “Don’t cry, darling. I’m sorry, I haven’t been sooner.”

“Are you all right?” she whispered. “I’ve been so worried about you.”

“I’m fine. I just needed to sleep and sort myself out. I didn’t mean to worry you.” He gently wiped her tears away.

“I can’t help worrying when you disappear for so long with no explanation. I couldn’t even come looking for you.”

“I know. It won’t happen again.” He took her hand in his, and gently squeezed it, the only way he could show affection for now. “How are you doing?”

“I’m okay. Happier for seeing you, though.” Jack managed to move the conversation on to other things after that, spending the time telling her about where he was living and what he had seen of the island so far. When it was almost time to go, he changed the subject again.

“I won’t be here for the next week or two,” he told her. “I have to go home. I need to let my family see that I’m all right.”

“I wish I could come with you,” she replied, wistfully.

“I’ll take you when you’re better,” he promised. “You need to concentrate on getting yourself well again, for now.” He stood up. “Look after yourself and I’ll come and see you as soon as I get back.” Jo nodded. He squeezed her hand once more and departed.

As he was walking through the hospital, Jem caught him up, walking out with him.

“How was Jo?” Jem asked him.

“She was upset that I hadn’t been to see her, but I suppose I asked for that,” he answered.

“You needed time to sort yourself out, too. She needs to understand that you can’t be with her constantly.”

“She does understand, but I didn’t need to cause her to worry by my disappearing act.”

“Will you come to dinner, tonight?” Jem asked him, changing the subject.

“Yes. That would be lovely, thank you.”

“I’ll send Andreas to pick you up about seven o’clock.”

“Thanks. That should just give me time to pack.”

“You’re going home, then?”

“Yes. I’m catching the ferry tomorrow morning.”

“Andreas will give you a ride to the port. Just tell him what time you need to be there. Have you told Jo?”

“Yes. She was upset that she couldn’t come as well, but she accepted that I needed to go.”

“Good.” They reached Jem’s car at this point. “Do you want a lift home?”

“No, thank you. I’d rather walk, as it’s a fine day.”

“I’ll see you at dinner.” Jack nodded and left Jem to climb into his car and drive off, whilst he set off on the walk back to his cottage.

The next morning found him at the port, waiting to board the ferry for England and his family home.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Thu Apr 07, 2011 8:07 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 7/4/11
Thank you! Lovely start to the day, the pilsner didn't seem to have had any effect on your plot bunnies that I could see! :-)
Author:  Alison H [ Thu Apr 07, 2011 8:27 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 7/4/11
Glad Jack's going to see his family - they seemed to be rather neglected most of the time.
Author:  PaulineS [ Thu Apr 07, 2011 8:36 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 7/4/11
Thanks Vicky, I like that Jack is recovered from his long sleep and has seen Joey again.
Author:  Bryony [ Thu Apr 07, 2011 9:23 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 7/4/11
Poor Joey, no sooner does Jack sort himself out and go see her than he's off again. I know it's the right thing for him to do, but surely a day or two with Joey first wouldn't hurt.

Thanks Vick, this is still fantastic, am torn between wanting Joey to recover quickly so they can get married and start making triplets, and not wanting the drabble to end!
Author:  brie [ Thu Apr 07, 2011 9:27 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 7/4/11
Thanks Vick. Will we get to see Jack at pretty maids?
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Thu Apr 07, 2011 10:44 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 7/4/11
Thanks Vick
Author:  jmc [ Thu Apr 07, 2011 11:24 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 7/4/11
Thanks. Hope things work out a bit better with Jack's family in this universe.
Author:  emma t [ Thu Apr 07, 2011 5:11 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 7/4/11
Thanks, Vick, hope that Joey does not fret when Jack is away, though!
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Thu Apr 07, 2011 5:39 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 7/4/11
Would this be around the time that Rolf dies? *sudden feeling of dread*

Thankyou!
Author:  Beecharmer [ Thu Apr 07, 2011 6:57 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 7/4/11
Vick wrote:
Beecharmer wrote:
Also sorts through nearby plot bunnies to find some early 1940s ones to pass on to Vick, but only if she promises to be at least a little nicer to them which is why they ran away in the first place.*

Ooh I've just worked out if it is 1939 now in Vicks mind, then it is hopefully a good sign she wants some 1940s ones ...


Cheers! I promise I will be nice to them, but I can't guarantee the kids will be :roll: I think that's why mine disappeared in the first place.... It was fed up of being harassed by a nearly 4 year old & a 17 month old :lol:

Just because I want the 1940s one doesn't mean it's a good sign... :devil:


*wibble wibble wibble wibble wibble wibble wibble*

:shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :( :( :( :(
:bawling: :bawling: :bawling: :bawling:
Author:  Abi [ Thu Apr 07, 2011 9:04 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 7/4/11
Thanks Vick. Maybe some time away will help Jack. And at least Jo knows where he is this time!
Author:  Miss Di [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 6:03 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 6/4/11
Vick wrote:
He had spent the morning sorting his affairs out at the bank, so he had access to some money. He didn’t expect to receive anything whilst he wasn’t working and he needed to be able to pay someone to come and cook and clean for him.



Oh I need someone to come and cook and clean for me too! But I'd really prefer a devoted slave who will do it for a pittance. Any volunteers? :lol:
Author:  Vick [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 7:47 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 7/4/11
Beecharmer wrote:
Thank you! Lovely start to the day, the pilsner didn't seem to have had any effect on your plot bunnies that I could see! :-)

Ha! That's because I'm writing a long way in front of this.... :lol:

*Bats plot bunny trying to tell a Pretty Maids story at a completely different part of this drabble away and shoos it out onto the Pennines to play.*

Thanks for all your comments.

Jo spent the following week quietly. She missed Jack, but knew he was at home with his family, where he was safe. She had seen her sister each visiting day, but did not wish to see her friends for the moment. Jem didn’t push the matter. He knew she was struggling to adjust to being back on complete bed rest and that she was sleeping a lot as she recovered from her trek across Europe. Once she had reached the safety of her family, her nightmares had begun to subside, much to his relief.

One afternoon, when her sister came, she brought with her a few things she had managed to rescue from Jo’s bedroom and sitting room in Tyrol. She asked Jo if she wanted to have them with her whilst she was in the hospital. Jo was very unsure. She was still raw from the nightmare journey. Madge was understanding, though she did take one item out and insist she have it. It was Jack’s rosary. Tears clouded Jo’s eyes as she looked at it. She managed a watery smile at her sister and thanked her.

When Jack had been gone for just under two weeks, Jo was taken for a chest X-ray. Jem came to see her later on that day.

“You’ll be pleased to know it is still only on your right lung, Jo,” he told her. “The haemoptysis you had when you arrived in Switzerland has done more damage to it, though. You’ll have to continue on compete bed rest and we need to start pneumothorax again. Then, we’ll see what it’s like in another month.” Jo just nodded and Jem left her. She picked the rosary up off the bedside cabinet and toyed idly with it until she fell asleep, the beads tangled around her fingers.

Three days later, Jo was dozing while she waited for her sister to arrive. The door opened quietly and someone slipped into the room and came to sit with her. When she opened her eyes a few minutes later, she looked straight into those of Jack. He smiled at her, and tears pricked the back of her eyes.

“Jack! You’re back.”

“I am, indeed,” he replied, taking her hand and squeezing it. Jo held on, tightly, wishing she could hug him.

“How was everyone?”

“They are all doing well, though they were relieved to see me. They send their love to you, by the way.” Jo managed a smile at this. “How are you doing?”

“Another month of this, Jem says.” He didn’t question her further, as he didn’t want to spoil her sudden happiness. He changed the subject and they talked at length until Jack glanced at his watch.

“I have to go, now.” He stood up, reluctantly. “It’s well after visiting hours officially ended and I have to get to a meeting.”

“Are you going back to work, then?” Jo asked him.

“I’ll find that out at this meeting. Look after yourself, Jo. I’ll see you in a day or two, I expect.” Jo nodded. He gave her hand a final squeeze and then left for his meeting. Jo lay staring at the ceiling for a while, before she picked the rosary up once more and fell asleep again.

When Jack had finished his meeting, he poked his head around the door to Jo’s room, intending to say goodnight to her. She was fast asleep, so he silently withdrew again and headed for home. He would see her the next day. Jem had finally allowed him back to work. He had been off for nearly three months and was glad to be going back. He had been through a terrible experience during his escape from Austria and he had needed the time to recover from both that and the shock that Jo’s tuberculosis had returned. The two weeks he had spent at his family home in the New Forest had helped him to regain his equilibrium and he was now ready to deal with whatever new challenges were presented to him. He realised that he had been lucky in his life, so far. He had a loving family, a job he enjoyed and was now engaged to someone he had loved for a long time. He didn’t think there was anything else for which he could possibly ask.
Author:  Alison H [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 8:00 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 8/4/11
Glad Jack's feeling better.
Author:  PaulineS [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 8:13 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 8/4/11
Good, I am glad that Jack's visit to Pretty Maids helped him recover. Pleased Joey is starting to recover.

Thanks Vicky.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 8:18 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 8/4/11
Oh I know that feeling! Posting when you are a bit further ahead in the story is good for we readers, but very confusing when writing! Hope you manage to rectify the pilsner induced bunny coma section then before it becomes time to post it here!

*sends message to friends in the pennnines to go out looking for Vicks pretty maids plot bunny and entice it back to hassle her with some broccoli *

Edited to add - Doh! Forgot the whole point of the post! Thanks Vick!
Author:  brie [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 10:27 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 8/4/11
thanks so much for the update. glad jacks feeling better
Author:  jmc [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 10:39 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 8/4/11
It's good that Jack's going back to work. Life will start to feel more normal. Hope Jo recovers before they have to leave Guernsey. Thanks Vick.
Author:  Eilidh [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 12:28 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 8/4/11
Thanks Vick, I've really been enjoying this. Such a plausible alternative.
Author:  Bryony [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 1:32 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 8/4/11
Thanks Vick. This feels so very real, which only makes me more wibbly... but surely you wouldn't do Joey in now, after they've come so far???
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 3:35 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 8/4/11
Hmm, it seems very cruel to just abandon poor bunnies like that!

Thankyou, I'm glad that Jack is starting to feel well again. Just Joey to go now...
Author:  CareBear [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 4:13 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 8/4/11
Thanks Vick hope Joey is better soon
Author:  emma t [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 6:37 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 8/4/11
Thanks,Vick, glad that Jack is better. It makes you wonder if EBD had something like this in mind for Joey, but could not write it for her targeted audience.
Author:  roversgirl [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 9:12 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 8/4/11
Glad Jack's feeling better and that Joey's tb has stayed on the right lung. Thanks :)
Author:  Abi [ Fri Apr 08, 2011 9:31 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 8/4/11
Glad Jack's better now, and hopefully Joey will go the same way...
Author:  Vick [ Sat Apr 09, 2011 11:07 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 8/4/11
Thanks for all your comments :D

When Jack arrived to start his shift the next day, he was shown a tiny room which was to be his office and given a rather large pile of paperwork and patient files to trawl through. He thanked Jem, who had passed them to him, and checked if there was anything urgent in them. When he found out there wasn’t, he dumped everything onto his desk and sought a cup of coffee, before returning to sit down and look through the pile. He dealt with the patient files first, working out what stage each one was at in their treatment and how they were reacting to it. He was relieved to find they only had a handful of patients at the moment, thanks to the small amount of space they currently had in the hospital wing.

Eventually, he reached Jo’s file. He opened it apprehensively. He had no idea what to expect, having not been party to any of her treatment so far. He had a sip of his coffee and tried to clear his mind, determined to try and look at it as impartially as he could. He had to treat it the same as the other patient files and try to forget that his fiancée’s name was on the front of it. The first few pages were in German, dating from the time she was in the Swiss hospital, before it changed to English and Jem’s unmistakable scrawl. When he had finished reading, he picked up the accompanying envelope and slid out the last X-rays. He studied them at the light before putting them back with a sigh. He sat back in his chair and finished his coffee, which was lukewarm by now.

Setting the mug down on his desk, he stood up and set off to check on his patients. He deliberately left Jo until last. It was quite late when he finally entered her room, but she was still awake. He sat down beside her, but didn’t take her hand. He knew he needed to distance himself when on duty and had decided that not touching her would be the best way for them both to be able to understand this. He gently told her of his decision, before stating he had to get on and that she ought to get some sleep. Promising he would come and say goodbye, he left her alone and went back to his office.

Jo watched him leave, then rolled over and picked the rosary up from the bedside cabinet. She was upset by the distance he had deliberately put between them. Deep down, she knew she was being irrational. Jack had to do his job and she just happened to be one of his patients when he was on duty. She let the beads on the rosary slip through her fingers, as her thoughts swirled around.

She didn’t sleep well that night. When Jack checked on her in the early hours, he could hear her muttering in her sleep. He hoped it wasn’t a recurrence of the nightmares she had been having when she was in Switzerland. He sat with her for a while, but she didn’t stir, much to his relief. He left her just before dawn came creeping in and went back to his office, where he sank heavily into his chair. He put his head into his hands and tried to re-order his thoughts, before he finally picked up his pen to update the records.

When Jem came in to take over the next morning, Jack was a very relieved man. He handed the files over and answered Jem’s questions in a non-committal way. He paused outside Jo’s room on his way past, unsure whether to go in. Remembering his promise, he poked his head around the door to see if she was awake. She had her eyes closed, but he knew that didn’t mean she was asleep.

“Jo?” he asked, softly. As he suspected, she was awake. “I’m going now. I’ll see you later.” Jo just nodded. Jack withdrew and left the hospital. He drove quickly home. Once there, he let himself in and slumped into a chair in the lounge. He was tired out. He went into the kitchen and made himself some coffee and a sandwich, taking them back into the lounge. When he had finished, he dumped the pots in the sink to wash later and headed upstairs to his bed. He undressed and climbed in, falling sound asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow.
Author:  Alison H [ Sat Apr 09, 2011 4:38 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 9/4/11
This is very awkward: Jack shouldn't really be treating his fiancée but I assume there aren't that many doctors at the new San as yet.
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Sat Apr 09, 2011 4:39 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 9/4/11
Poor Jack, he's just trying to do his best in a really hard situation.

I love that, having seen Joey's thoughts on all the treatment last time, we get to see what it was like for Jack this time.

Thankyou!
Author:  emma t [ Sat Apr 09, 2011 8:46 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 9/4/11
Thanks Vick :) Jack must feel that he's put in an awkward position here. Lets hope that Jo understands
Author:  Beecharmer [ Sat Apr 09, 2011 9:01 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 9/4/11
Poor both of them. I echo Ariel that it is nice to see it from his perspective this time. Thanks Vick :-)
Author:  Beecharmer [ Sat Apr 09, 2011 9:01 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 9/4/11
Poor both of them. I echo Ariel that it is nice to see it from his perspective this time. Thanks Vick :-)
Author:  Miss Di [ Sun Apr 10, 2011 4:52 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 9/4/11
Dear me, poor everyone. I guess we now know what happened in those missing months between Switzerland and Guernsey.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sun Apr 10, 2011 5:05 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 9/4/11
Thanks Vick, am enjoying the updates
Author:  Vick [ Sun Apr 10, 2011 7:52 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 9/4/11
Many thanks for all the comments :D

Back at the Sanatorium, Jem was dealing with Jo. He had read Jack’s notes and went to see her.

“How did you sleep last night?” he asked, sitting down next to her.

“All right,” she replied. Jem looked carefully at her. He noted dark circles under her eyes, which hadn’t been there the day before.

“You don’t look as well as you did.” Jo didn’t reply. “You’re worrying about something, aren’t you?” Jo looked away at this. She felt foolish for fretting about something she knew was right. Jem guessed it had something to do with Jack. He had no wish to interfere with their relationship, unless it affected his patient but, at the moment, it was doing just that, because Jo wasn’t resting properly.

“Did Jack come to see you last night?” Jo nodded. “I’m guessing that he said something which you aren’t happy about.” Jo nodded once more. “What was it? I don’t want to interfere, Jo, but something has upset you. You should be resting - and fretting isn’t doing that.”

“H-he told me that he couldn’t hold my hand and had to stay at a distance when he was working,” she whispered, not looking at him. Tears welled up, once more.

“He needs to do that so he doesn’t blur the boundary line between his personal and professional life, Jo. He’s in an uncomfortable position. He wants to spend time with you, but he also has to look after you as part of his job. It’s the same for me. I can’t take care of you and help you to get better, unless I separate out the fact that you are my sister-in-law and treat you as any other patient. Jack is just doing the same thing. Think yourself lucky. At least you’re getting to see him nearly every day. Other patients only get to see their loved ones twice a week.” Jo looked a little happier at this explanation, although she said nothing. She yawned, and Jem decided to leave it at that. He got up from the chair. “Try to sleep, now. I’m sure Jack will call in to see you before he comes on duty later.”

Jem left her alone at this. She slept for a few hours and felt better for it, though she was still worried. This time, she worried she had made trouble for Jack. She felt as if everything was going wrong, and her imaginings spiralled out of control. In the end, she felt under her pillow, looking for the rosary to comfort her. It wasn’t there. Nor could she feel it on the bedside cabinet. In desperation, she felt down the bed in case she was lying on it and hadn’t noticed, but had no success. This was too much for her and she burst into tears, just as Jack entered the room.

“Jo? What’s wrong?” he asked, concerned, and he quickly crossed the room. He couldn’t understand the incoherent things she was trying to tell him. “Stop crying first, and then tell me.” He handed her some tissues and she blew her nose, calming down slightly. “Now, tell me, slowly, this time.”

“I can’t find it,” she gulped. “I had it last night and, now, I can’t find it.”

“What can’t you find?” Jack was confused. He couldn’t think what she had managed to lose, when she had so few possessions with her.

“Your rosary,” she whispered. “Madge brought it in for me and, now, I can’t find it.” Tears started to fall again.

“Don’t cry again,” he said, tenderly. “Let me have a look for it.” He had a quick look on the bedside cabinet and around it, in case it had fallen off. He bent down and looked under the bed, suddenly dropping onto his hands and knees and reaching underneath. He handed it back to her, before sitting down. She managed a watery smile as she took it.

“Th-thank you.” She just looked at it, unable to meet Jack’s steady gaze.

“Something else is bothering you, isn’t it?” he ventured, as the silence between them continued. Jo didn’t answer. “What’s wrong, Jo?” Still, she didn’t speak or look at him. He heaved a sigh and glanced at his watch. He had to go and start his shift in ten minutes, but he didn’t want to leave her like this. He leant forward, resting his elbows on his knees. “If you won’t tell me, then I’ll have to guess. Does it have anything to do with what I said last night?” Jo just nodded, she didn’t trust herself to speak without crying again. “Oh, Jo. I didn’t mean to upset you. I thought you’d understood why I have to do it. I love you, but, as your doctor, I have to step back. I want you to get better, so that you can come home and we can spend the rest of our lives together. Don’t you think it’s a small price to pay?”

“I suppose so,” Jo admitted, in a small voice. “I-I know you’re right, but I’m just finding it hard to accept. We’ve just gone through so much and you’ve been there with me, every day. Now, you aren’t and I don’t think I can cope alone.” Jack clasped her hand in his at this admission. He had never meant to upset her, or to leave her thinking she was alone with her illness.

“You’ll cope, Joey. You’re a fighter. You’ve come through this once. Yes, we’ve had a terrible experience, but that’s all over. You have to concentrate on this battle, now. Every time I come to see you, remember that I love you, even when I’m working and have to be your doctor. It’s just as hard for me, you know.” He squeezed her hand at this, before rising from the chair. “I have to go. I’m due to start work now. I’ll always be here for you, Jo, no matter what. If you just want to talk, please, tell me, and I’ll make sure I’m here.” He let her hand drop at this and quickly departed. Jo watched him go, a little comforted by his words. She absently toyed with the rosary as she allowed them to sink in, until she fell asleep. When Jack came to check on her during his rounds, he saw she was sleeping properly, and was relieved. He noticed that the rosary had fallen to the floor again, so he picked it up and placed it on the bedside cabinet, where she would easily reach it the next time she wanted it.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Sun Apr 10, 2011 8:03 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 10/4/11
This is so real Vick. Thank you as always.

Poor Jack and Jo. :-(
Author:  Jools [ Sun Apr 10, 2011 8:20 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 10/4/11
This is fantastic Vick. You seem to have effortlessly got into the heads of Jo and Jack and portray them so well. I also love your Jem in this :P
Author:  Myth Tree [ Sun Apr 10, 2011 10:46 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 10/4/11
Poor Jo and Jack, such an awkward situation to be in.
Author:  emma t [ Sun Apr 10, 2011 11:35 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 10/4/11
It just seems so real that I get very easily drawn into this. Thanks Vick as ever :)
Author:  jmc [ Sun Apr 10, 2011 1:16 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 10/4/11
How hard for both of them.
Author:  PaulineS [ Sun Apr 10, 2011 2:20 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 10/4/11
Jem must be pleased to have Jack back with him even if they only have a few patients. Hope Joey is able to accept the distance from Jack and Jem

Thanks Vicky.
Author:  Alison H [ Sun Apr 10, 2011 5:32 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 10/4/11
Jem is so nice in this.
Author:  Abi [ Sun Apr 10, 2011 7:27 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 10/4/11
It must be incredibly hard for both of them. Thanks, Vick.
Author:  roversgirl [ Sun Apr 10, 2011 7:28 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 10/4/11
Poor everybody. I hope things get better soon! Thanks :)
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Sun Apr 10, 2011 8:38 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 10/4/11
I do hope that Jem can help both of them - he seems to be better at separating out the doctor part of his mind, and he is a little bit more removed from the situation. Perhaps it would be better for Joey to go somewhere Jack isn't her doctor, though, if she could? (I never did quite understand why EBD had them settle in Guernsey and not come straight to England, if I'm honest)

Thankyou!
Author:  Vick [ Mon Apr 11, 2011 7:42 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 10/4/11
ChubbyMonkey wrote:
Perhaps it would be better for Joey to go somewhere Jack isn't her doctor, though, if she could? (I never did quite understand why EBD had them settle in Guernsey and not come straight to England, if I'm honest)


Ah, but then I would have to rewrite the 20-odd pages of this that I have already written!!! :?

Thanks for all your comments as always. :D

The days and weeks passed very slowly for Jo. She was becoming accustomed to the routine of being a tuberculosis patient once more. She was having regular pneumothorax again, and was concentrating on trying to forget the pain it gave her. She had another chest X-ray a month later. It was Jack who came to tell her the results, this time. He came in immediately after rest hours one afternoon, and sat down beside her. Jo had been sleeping, but his arrival woke her.

“I’ve just gone through your latest X-rays,” he told her. Jo didn’t reply, but she watched him steadily. “They don’t show much improvement from the last lot, so I’m afraid you’ll have to stay on complete bed rest for another month.” Jo felt tears pricking her eyes, but she was determined not to let them fall. Jack noticed, but refrained from saying anything. He appreciated how hard it was for her. He stood back up and started towards the door. When he reached it he turned and spoke again. “I’ll come back later, Jo, when I’ve finished.” Jo nodded and he left her alone.

Jack kept his word and, once he had handed over, he duly went back to Jo’s room. She was lying quietly when he entered. Though she smiled faintly at him as he came to sit by her, she said nothing. He took her hand in his, showing her that he was no longer her doctor.

“How are you feeling?” he asked her. She just shook her head and looked at the wall beyond his shoulder. She knew that if she spoke, she wouldn’t be able to stop the tears from falling. Jack realised that she was only just holding herself together. He clasped her hand tighter and spoke again. “It’s going to be all right, Jo. It will take time, that’s all.” At these words, Jo found the tears falling. Jack just held her hand tightly in his, wishing he could take her in his arms. When the tears finally slowed, Jack passed her a tissue and she blew her nose.

“S-sorry,” she mumbled.

“Don’t be,” he replied. “We’ll get there. We just have to be patient. You’ve only been here for three months, and most of that has been spent letting your body recover from the journey. That week I disappeared was the same for me. All I wanted to do was sleep, to the exclusion of everything else going on around me. When Jem knocked on my door, I think he was surprised to see the state of me. It’s just taken you longer to recover because of your illness. Hopefully, you’ll turn the corner now and start to improve again.”

“I hope so,” Jo whispered. She was struggling to stay awake.

“Get some sleep,” he said. He gently stroked her hair from her face, continuing to do so as Jo closed her eyes and drifted off. When he was sure she was sound asleep, he reluctantly stopped and headed for the door.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Mon Apr 11, 2011 8:11 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 10/4/11
Vick wrote:
ChubbyMonkey wrote:
Perhaps it would be better for Joey to go somewhere Jack isn't her doctor, though, if she could? (I never did quite understand why EBD had them settle in Guernsey and not come straight to England, if I'm honest)


[color=#0000FF]Ah, but then I would have to rewrite the 20-odd pages of this that I have already written!!! :?

Kathryn does the happy dance knowing that there are still at least 20 pages left!! Although the theme is sad, it is like having a long lost CS book filling in a big gap in the series.

Thanks Vick, thank you for letting him hold her hand too.
Author:  PaulineS [ Mon Apr 11, 2011 10:16 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 11/4/11
I think Jack's holding or not holding her hand to signify when is her doctor and when he is her fiancee is a lovely way. If she went else where she could not see Jack for days, which I think would be harder.
Thanks Vicky.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Mon Apr 11, 2011 10:58 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 11/4/11
Thanks Vicky. I love the relationship between Jo and Jack here
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Mon Apr 11, 2011 4:24 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 11/4/11
Please don't do that! Ignore me and my silly suggestions - Jack is being a wonderful SLOC here. But things don't sound so good for Joey. I hope she starts to improve soon!

Thankyou.
Author:  roversgirl [ Mon Apr 11, 2011 6:29 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 11/4/11
I think Jack is a lovely SLOC and Joey is very brave. Thanks :)
Author:  Abi [ Mon Apr 11, 2011 9:19 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 11/4/11
Jack is indeed the perfect SLOC. :D
Author:  Miss Di [ Mon Apr 11, 2011 11:49 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 11/4/11
Please let Joey get better soon, this is sooooo sad.
Author:  Vick [ Thu Apr 14, 2011 8:02 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 11/4/11
ChubbyMonkey wrote:
Please don't do that! Ignore me and my silly suggestions - Jack is being a wonderful SLOC here. But things don't sound so good for Joey. I hope she starts to improve soon!

Thankyou.

Unfortunately, I very nearly was rewriting those 20-odd pages! Apologies for lack of postings, but I had a bit of a computer disaster, involoving a nasty virus which crashed the whole thing & I couldn't access anything on it, including all this drabble! :shock: :banghead: :bawling: Luckily, I had emailed the whole thing to Mary the previous day for proofing. Now, I have a shiny new laptop to play with :lol: I was managing to get in the t'internet through the wii, but couldn't really comment on anything since it's hard work trying to type using an on-screen keyboard and wafting a wii remote at each letter :roll:

Anyway, thanks for all your comments, as always and here is some more...

The next month passed slowly for Jo as she continued to rest in bed. Jack came to sit with her whenever he could, but he never stayed long. Jem also stopped by when he had a few minutes, and brought the news that she had a new niece. She was happy for them, but knew she would be unable to see her sister for a while. She made Jem promise to bring in pictures of his newest daughter for her to see. Jem also brought the sad news that his sister had died. Jo was upset to hear this, but she knew how much his sister had gone through, both in Australia and then having to leave Austria.

When she had more X-rays at the end of October, she steeled herself for the worst. She fully expected to be told that she would have to continue on complete bed rest for yet another month. She was, therefore, surprised when Jack came in one afternoon, holding a book and pen and paper. He deposited them onto the bedside cabinet, smiling as he did so.

“I said you would start to improve,” he told her. Jo managed a smile at this, before Jack continued, “you only get half an hour for now, but it’s better than nothing.”

“Thank you,” she said.

“My pleasure.” He left her to investigate the book he had brought.

She found time moved slightly faster, now she had something to do each day. She spent the first week writing letters to her friends and to her brother in India. After that, she read for the allotted time each day. Jack saw that she was much happier, now she had some small occupation. He had posted her letters for her and eventually brought the replies back to her.

Jo’s next lot of X-rays showed yet more improvement, and Jem came to see her one afternoon, after rest hours.

“You may have an hour sitting up now, Jo,” he told her.

“Really?” Jo beamed at her brother-in-law, happy that she would, at last, be able to sit up for longer than just her meals.

“Yes. You’ll have to work up to the full hour ten minutes at a time, though. Your body is used to being flat after five months of bed rest. If you feel anything is wrong when you sit up, make sure you tell us. We don’t want you to be set back again.” Jo nodded. Jem smiled at her and left to continue his rounds.

When Jack came in just before he started work, she was still smiling. He came to sit with her.

“Why so happy?” he asked, pleased to see her smiling for a change.

“Jem’s just told me I can have an hour sitting up,” she replied. Jack clasped her hand in his at this news. He was genuinely happy for her, though she still had a long road ahead of her.

“That’s great news, Jo. Let’s hope it continues to be good.”

It was a week before Jo was finally sitting up for the full hour each day. When she woke up on her birthday, she realised that she was twenty-one, now. She had finally reached her majority. She didn’t feel as if it was something to celebrate, though. She thought back to her birthday last year. It had been so nice to have a few friends to dinner. This year, she was lying in a bed in a Sanatorium, only allowed to sit up for one hour and to read and write for half an hour each day. She sighed, and picked her book up from the bedside cabinet. It didn’t hold her attention for long, though. It fell from her hands, and she stared blankly at the wall. Jem had called in briefly to wish her many happy returns, but otherwise, she had been left alone. She was beginning to think that Jack had forgotten, and felt tears forming. She resolutely drove them back, determined not to cry on her birthday. She ate her lunch and went to sleep.

A few hours later a noise disturbed her. She briefly opened her eyes, but didn’t register that her fiancé had just seated himself by her bed. She rolled over and went back to sleep. Jack just sat with her, until she finally woke properly.

“Happy Birthday, Jo,” he said, when she looked at him.

“Thank you,” she murmured. She was still a little groggy.

“Since I can’t take you out to dinner, I thought we could have it here, instead.” Jo smiled faintly at this suggestion. She was feeling a little happier, now Jack was there. “Have you had your hour up, today?” Jo shook her head. “Good.” He went across the room and dragged a folding table to the bed. On it was a board game. “I managed to borrow this from Rix.”

“You must have been very persuasive,” she remarked. “Rix is very possessive of his games.”

“I know. I’m under strict orders not to break it and to make sure it’s returned to him by tomorrow lunchtime.” Jack laughed, and Jo joined in, stopping quickly when she thought she might start to cough. He came and gave her a hand to sit up, before passing her a wrap for her shoulders. They spent the next hour joyfully playing Sixty-four Milestones, until dinner was brought in. They ate in companionable silence, and when they had finished, Jo was obliged to lie back down once more. Jack stayed with her for a while longer, but he could see she was starting to tire.

“I’m sorry we couldn’t do anything else for your birthday. Hopefully, next year, we’ll be able to have a meal out in a restaurant.”

“That sounds lovely,” Jo replied, sleepily.

“Don’t try to stay awake for me, Jo. I should get going, anyway. I have to start work in fifteen minutes.” He stood up at this and collected the game, intending to pass it onto Jem to take home. “Goodnight.” Jo just smiled at him, then rolled over and was asleep before he had left the room.

I did have a web page to show you the game, but obviously have lost the bookmark to it :roll: It's a very early version of the Game of Life
Author:  Alison H [ Thu Apr 14, 2011 8:09 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 14/4/11
Ooh, I haven't played The Game of Life for years and years! I'd forgotten all about it :lol: . My friend and I used to love it!
Author:  PaulineS [ Thu Apr 14, 2011 9:40 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 14/4/11
Thank you Vicky. Commisserations on the virus, glad you had a back up of all your hard work. Enjoy the new machine.
Author:  brie [ Thu Apr 14, 2011 11:58 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 14/4/11
Thanks for the update. I missed the daily updates, although it sounds like you had a stressful time of it. I'm glad you didn't have to re-write it all. :)
Author:  honey lamb [ Thu Apr 14, 2011 12:19 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 11/4/11
Vick wrote:


I did have a web page to show you the game, but obviously have lost the bookmark to it :roll: It's a very early version of the Game of Life

Here's a link
Author:  Minim [ Thu Apr 14, 2011 12:38 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 11/4/11
Vick wrote:
I was managing to get in the t'internet through the wii, but couldn't really comment on anything since it's hard work trying to type using an on-screen keyboard and wafting a wii remote at each letter :roll:


I've done the same in the past. Tried updating my drabble and found I could only post a line :oops:

Thanks for the update, by the way.
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Thu Apr 14, 2011 5:32 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 14/4/11
Now I'm longing to play Game of Life as well! Might have to see if we still have our old set.

Thankyou - poor Jo, but at least she got to see Jack on her birthday. As if he's the sort of SLOC who'd forget!
Author:  emma t [ Thu Apr 14, 2011 8:48 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 14/4/11
Just had a catch up :) I used to love The game of life - my cousin and I would play it :) great fun!!
Author:  Miss Di [ Fri Apr 15, 2011 2:08 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 14/4/11
Bit different to most 21st parties!

Hope you've got your nasty virus sorted now and thanks for the update.
Author:  roversgirl [ Fri Apr 15, 2011 4:43 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 14/4/11
How sweet; thanks! :)
Author:  Vick [ Fri Apr 15, 2011 7:42 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 14/4/11
Thanks for all the comments :D

Thanks for finding that link, honey lamb, that was the one! Don't buy the new version of Game of Life, people, you don't have the same jobs as the 1980s version, you can be a pop star and other random modern jobs. It just wasn't the same when I played it a few years ago...

I can't wait for the children to be old enough to be able to play our cupboard full of board games. They were something I never got rid of, so they are all from my childhood and well-loved.

Anyway, enough wittering. On with the story...

Before Jo knew it, it was Christmas Day. She looked out of the window at the rain which was coming down in torrents and half-wished she was back in the Tyrol. She hated the wet weather, so typical of the English climate. Sighing, she picked her book up from the bedside table and settled down to read. She was allowed an hour to read and write, now, for which she was grateful. She was soon absorbed in it, not hearing when someone sat down in the chair next to her.

“Merry Christmas, Jo,” Jack said, when she finally glanced up. She smiled happily. She quickly put the book down and held her hand out to him. He took it tightly in his own.

“Merry Christmas, Jack. I wasn’t expecting anyone today.”

“I couldn’t let you spend Christmas Day completely alone. I can only spend an hour with you, though. Your sister has invited me to have lunch with them. I’m on duty tonight, so I’ll be around then.”

“I hope you’re prepared for it. The children are all allowed to join the meal at lunchtime. It won’t be a quiet one, by any means.”

“I’m sure I’ll manage,” he grinned.

“I wish I could be there, too,” Jo continued, wistfully. Jack squeezed her hand at this.

“I know. It won’t be the same without you, but you know you can’t be there this year.” Jo just nodded, tears misting her eyes as she thought about last Christmas. Not wishing for her to brood over what couldn’t be, Jack produced a parcel wrapped in Christmas paper and handed it to her.

“Thank you.” She slowly unwrapped it and found six books.

“It’s nothing exciting, I’m afraid, but I knew you were in need of something else to read.”

“They’re lovely. Thank you for thinking of them.” She admired the dust jackets, before carefully putting them on her bedside cabinet. Jack reluctantly stood up.

“I have to go, or I’ll be late. I’ll see you tonight, when I come on duty.” He quickly clasped her hand once more, before letting go and departing. Jo watched him leave, and then lay toying with the rosary until her own lunch arrived.

She slept all afternoon, only waking when her dinner was brought in. After she had eaten, she lay back down and went to sleep once more, never hearing Jack look in on her when he was doing his rounds.
Author:  PaulineS [ Fri Apr 15, 2011 8:27 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 15/4/11
Poor Joey and Jack. This Christmas is different than the previous one.
Thanks Vicky.
Author:  emma t [ Fri Apr 15, 2011 9:54 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 15/4/11
This is sad :( poor Jack and Joey hope that Joey will be well enough soon and they can get married - was she not 21 when the triplets arrived? I could be wrong!
Author:  Beecharmer [ Fri Apr 15, 2011 12:33 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 15/4/11
Thank you as ever, poor Joey and Jack.
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Fri Apr 15, 2011 6:45 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 15/4/11
Oh, how sad for all of them. Please let them have a happier next Christmas!

Thankyou!
Author:  sealpuppy [ Fri Apr 15, 2011 7:42 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 15/4/11
This is so real and so plausible. Really, really hoping Jack and Joey get married but seriously panicking about possible triplets. Surely not? Maybe - if it all pans out - just one nice little girl, but no more, pleeeasssse: Mary Helena Constance Margaret Maynard, that'll do. :D
Author:  roversgirl [ Sat Apr 16, 2011 5:34 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 15/4/11
Jack is lovely here. I hope she gets out soon. Thanks :-)
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sat Apr 16, 2011 6:58 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 15/4/11
I just can't imagine how Joey coped during this time. I would be so bored through it all. I remember seeing an old iron lung and someone had lived 63 years of their life in one. She was only allowed out for one hour a day. It's amazing what some go through just to live
Author:  Vick [ Sat Apr 16, 2011 9:26 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 15/4/11
Scary thought, Fiona. I couldn't imagine doing that either.

It's an absolutely glorious morning here in Yorkshire, and I'm going to the theatre to watch Jekyll and Hyde this afternoon, starring Marti Pellow of Wet Wet Wet fame :D

Here's some more for you. Not sure if I'll get chance to post tomorrow :roll:

Thanks for your comments and suggestions, as always :mrgreen:

Towards the end of January, Jo had more X-rays and Jem came to tell her the results.

“Your X-rays are slowly improving, Jo,” he said. “I think you can try sitting up for two hours a day, from now on.”

“Really?” Jo asked, surprised. She had steeled herself for the worst, again.

“Yes. Add ten minutes on each day until you get to the full two hours. I don’t want you to rush things. Once you’re comfortable at two hours, we’ll see how you’re progressing.”

“Thank you.”

Jem smiled and stood up. “We’ll get you back home again, Jo. We just have to take it slowly, that's all.”

A week later saw Jo sitting up for the allotted two hours a day. She was beginning to find herself in a little routine, now, spending her time up after rest hours. Her emotional state was improving, too, and she had asked to see the few friends she had living on the island. Her sister came one visiting day each week and one of her friends came on the other. Jack was secretly relieved at this progress. He had worried that she was isolating herself from the world in order to protect herself from being hurt. He knew she still had a long way to go before he would be able to make her his wife, but he could finally start to hope, once more.

After another month and more X-rays, Jem told Jo that she would be able to start building slowly up to three hours up each day. Jo realised that walking to her meals was just around the corner. She wasn’t looking forward to this. She had found it an ordeal last time, when she had been on the Sonnalpe. Although she was improving physically, her mental state was still very fragile. The quietness of the Sanatorium had helped her, but it had been seven months before she had asked to see any of her friends. Meeting complete strangers was another challenge altogether, and one she wasn’t sure she was ready to face, yet. She brooded on this and, subsequently, her appetite started to diminish. When she had barely eaten anything for two days, Jem came to talk to her.

“How are you, Jo?”

“Fine”

“The nurse tells me you’ve barely eaten over the past two days.” Jo didn’t answer. “Do you feel ill, at all?”

“No. I’m okay, Jem, I promise.” He looked keenly at her, and she blushed under his steady gaze.

“Well, something must be bothering you. It’s isn’t like you to just stop eating for no reason, Jo. I just want to help you, but I can’t if you won’t tell me. If you start losing weight, you’ll end up back on bed rest. That’s the last thing I want to put you through, but I don’t have much choice at the moment.” Jo pulled her knees up under her chin, wrapping her arms around them as she stared at the wall beyond Jem’s shoulder. He watched her. Suddenly, she put her head down and started crying. Jem waited, patiently, until the storm had passed. Then he tried again.

“Tell me what it is, Jo, and let me help you.” Jo drew in a shuddering breath, and coughed. Jem quickly passed her some tissues and waited, silently. When she had finished, Jo spoke.

“I-I’m scared.”

“What’s scaring you?”

“Eating. Going to eat in the dining room.”

“You aren’t doing that, yet.”

“No, but it’s what comes next, isn’t it?” Jem nodded, wondering where her imagination was taking her. “I can only just manage talking to my friends. How am I going to talk to complete strangers?”

“You’ll manage it, Jo. You aren’t even at that stage, though. You’ve only just reached three hours time up. I would never make you do anything before I thought you were ready for it.”

“But, last time, I started to go there almost as soon as I had three hours time up.”

“That was last time. When you were on the Sonnalpe, you were able to take on the challenges put before you much more quickly. This time is different. You’re still recovering from an extremely stressful and frightening experience, as well as tuberculosis. You have to be mentally ready for the challenges, as well as physically. At the moment, you aren’t ready mentally, as you’ve just admitted. You need to stop worrying about what comes next and concentrate on what is happening now. Let me worry about the next steps for you. It’s what I’m here for, after all.” Jem stood back up at this. He had other patients to see and Jo was tiring. “Get some sleep, Jo. I want to hear that you ate everything on your plate at your next meal.” He removed her pillows and she lay down. “You’ll get there. It will just take time, that’s all.” He departed at this, and Jo fell asleep, exhausted by her emotions.

Jo had been on three hours time up for a month before Jem decided she was ready to try eating in the dining room. He came to tell her one morning, after breakfast. Jo was worried at the prospect, but he told her that, if she wanted to continue improving, she had to do it.

“It’s not like last time, Jo,” he reassured her. “We only have a handful of patients here, at the moment and, of them, there are only two who are currently eating in the dining room.” Jo didn’t look convinced.

“Are you sure I can do this?” she asked.

“I wouldn’t have suggested it if I didn’t think you were up to the challenge. You’ll have to meet new people at some point. You can’t hide in here, forever. Now, Nurse will come for you with a wheelchair at twelve o’clock.” Jem left on this note, allowing her no chance to argue further.

When she was deposited in the dining room, she found that Jem had spoken the truth. She was wheeled to a table with two other patients and left to it. Jo found herself talking to them, and actually enjoyed her meal. When Jack asked her how she had got on when he came to see her during his rounds, she told him that she had enjoyed it. He smiled at this, pleased to see that she had finally turned a corner and was improving.
Author:  Thursday Next [ Sat Apr 16, 2011 10:11 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 16/4/11
Poor Jo. Glad to see she enjoyed her meal in the dining room despite her worries.
Author:  Abi [ Sat Apr 16, 2011 12:46 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 16/4/11
Poor Jo, her fears are so plausible. Glad she enjoyed eating in the dining room; hopefully that will help to give her confidence for other things.

Thanks Vick.
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Sat Apr 16, 2011 4:03 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 16/4/11
But doesn't the move to England come soon? I don't know if Jo could survive that as well! Oh dear...

Thankyou!
Author:  PaulineS [ Sat Apr 16, 2011 7:49 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 16/4/11
Thanks Vicky.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Sat Apr 16, 2011 7:50 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 16/4/11
Poor Jo, this is so real, as ever. Thanks Vick.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sat Apr 16, 2011 11:58 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 16/4/11
Thanks Vick, glad Jo didn't find eating in the dinning room too hard and glad Jem looked after her and made it as easy as he could for her
Author:  Miss Di [ Sun Apr 17, 2011 6:16 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 16/4/11
Oh dear, poor Joey. I would go mental with only three hours of reading/writing/talking a day.
Author:  emma t [ Sun Apr 17, 2011 9:50 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 16/4/11
Poor Joey, she must be feeling awful :( hope she can cope with it!Thanks Vick
Author:  Vick [ Mon Apr 18, 2011 7:18 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 16/4/11
Many thanks for your comments. :D

Towards the end of May, Jo was told she could have six hours time up. She was progressing well, now, and hadn’t looked back since she had started using the dining room for her meals. The weather was improving, and Jo longed to be able to go outside once more. It wasn’t possible, though, as she was still in the small hospital wing, which had no outside space. Jem was busy converting an old building into a Sanatorium, which he hoped would be ready by the end of June.

When her sister came to visit, one afternoon, she brought news that the school was to re-open at the beginning of September. Jo was interested to know who would be returning. It distracted her from her illness and her sister was glad to see flashes of the old Jo starting to appear as they discussed it. Madge knew her sister would never be as carefree and happy as she had once been. She had been through too much for that. When Madge reluctantly left at the end of visiting hours, it was in the knowledge that her sister was finally coming to terms with her life and was preparing to move on.

When Jack came to see Jo one afternoon in late June, he had news for her.

“It’s good news, Jo. You can have eight hours time up, now.”

“Really?”

“Yes, really.” Jack smiled at her. He was just as pleased as she was. “I have more news, though.”

“What is it?”

“The new Sanatorium is ready, at last. You’re being transferred there in a couple of days.”

“Does that mean I get to sit outside, then?”

“Yes, there’s plenty of space for that.” Jo just smiled in reply to this and Jack continued on his way.

Two days later saw Jo being put into an ambulance for the short journey to the new Sanatorium. Jack accompanied her, and escorted her to her new room, before he left her to continue with the transfers. Jo looked around the bright and airy room. It was simply furnished, and had a small balcony. She went to sit outside, once Jack had left, taking the chance to finally see a view of the island, however small it was.

She was still there when Jack came back. He had finished his shift and brought a chair out with him, placing it by her side. He sank into it, taking her hand in his, and just enjoyed being able to sit in a companionable silence with her. He finally broke the silence when she shivered.

“Maybe it’s time to go back inside, Jo.” Jo just nodded, and he gently hauled her to her feet, before picking the chair up and following her indoors. Once he had replaced the chair, he came over to where she was standing and drew her into a hug. It was the first time he had done so in a year. Jo hugged him back, leaning her head into his chest. He dropped a kiss onto her hair.

“I’d best get going, now. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Goodnight, Jack. And thank you.” Jack just smiled at her, then turned and left for home.

Five minutes after Jack had left, a nurse came to collect Jo and show her to the dining room. Once she had finished, she was accompanied back to her room, where she climbed into bed and fell asleep.

The next morning, after breakfast, a nurse offered Jo the chance to sit out in the gardens. Jo accepted and quickly gathered some things together to take with her. She couldn’t wait to spend some time outside. She was taken to a small shelter, which overlooked a nearby bay and, once she was comfortable and warmly wrapped, was left alone. The island was completely different to the Sonnalpe, and she spent most of the morning taking in the scenery.

Jack found her there, just before he was due to start his shift. Jo smiled at him as he came to sit next to her.

“Happy?” he asked her. Jo nodded. She had been starting to feel a little claustrophobic in the room in the hospital wing. The fresh air had cleared her brain and she felt as if she could do so much more than she was allowed. He stayed a short while longer, chatting happily, before he reluctantly got to his feet.

“I’d better go and take over. I’ll see you later.” He kissed her head and left her. Jo watched him go, wistfully. She wanted to be able to spend more time with him. She enjoyed the few snatched minutes, but it wasn’t the same. She wanted to be able to be alone with him without any restraints on his time. However, she knew this was impossible until she left the Sanatorium and was back at home.
Author:  Alison H [ Mon Apr 18, 2011 8:05 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 18/4/11
This is so hard for both of them.
Author:  PaulineS [ Mon Apr 18, 2011 10:01 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 18/4/11
Poor Joey, as a doctor's wife she will always have to let him go at short notice and for long periods, so she is getting used to her future life, if she did but know it. (she will have seen it with Madge and Jem, but not thought of it as applying to her and Jack in the past.)

Thanks Vicky.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Mon Apr 18, 2011 10:57 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 18/4/11
Am really glad Joey is doing so well
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Mon Apr 18, 2011 4:46 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 18/4/11
I just want to give Jack a hug!

Thankyou.
Author:  emma t [ Mon Apr 18, 2011 4:59 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 18/4/11
Me too, Jack is lovely :) thanks, Vick.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Mon Apr 18, 2011 6:03 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 18/4/11
So glad to see Joey starting to get more of her life back.

Thanks Vick, getting a little wibbly about the effect a multiple birth could have on Jo's health ...

* happy to have excuse to set up a shelter here too, begins shipping in Lego and duplo bricks for one of Minim's wibble shelters, also stocks up on tea and biscuits *
Author:  Abi [ Mon Apr 18, 2011 7:44 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 18/4/11
Glad Joey's doing so well. And Jack is a sweetie. :D
Author:  roversgirl [ Mon Apr 18, 2011 9:35 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 18/4/11
Glad Joey is making progress. Hopefully they can get married soon! Thanks :)
Author:  Miss Di [ Tue Apr 19, 2011 6:42 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 18/4/11
Forget the wedding, I hope she gets better soon!
Author:  Vick [ Tue Apr 19, 2011 7:57 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 18/4/11
Many thanks for all your lovely comments :D

*admires Beecharmer's Lego wibble shelter. Leaves spare bucket of Duplo in case of need*

Two weeks after her transfer to the new Sanatorium, Jem came to find her in her little shelter.

“How would you like to spend tomorrow at home?”

“I’d love to.” Jo smiled happily at the prospect, before adding, “Where is home, though?”

“In Torteval. At least, that’s where we live.” Jem smiled at this point. He realised that, though it was Jo’s official home, she had never seen it, and would probably only be living there for a few months, at most, when she finally left the Sanatorium. “I’ll collect you after breakfast, so make sure you’re ready.” Jo nodded. She was intrigued to see where her sister lived and looked forward to seeing her nieces, nephews and Robin and Daisy. Apart from Robin, she hadn’t seen any of them since before her flight from Austria.

Jem came to collect her after breakfast, as promised. They walked out to his car and he quickly drove her across the island to his home in Torteval. When he pulled up, Jo slowly climbed out and looked at the house. It was a charming old farmhouse, with large gardens to the front and back. Jem came around the car and took her arm.

“Welcome home, Jo. This is your home as much as ours, even if you haven’t had a chance to see it, yet.” Jem smiled at her, but saw that she had tears in her eyes. He realised that she was going through a whole series of emotions as she tried to take it in. She hadn’t made it home, until now. She had fled from Austria and ended up in a Sanatorium in Guernsey. She had taken over a year to finally get here, even for a day, and it was something she was struggling to take in. He waited with her as she tried to re-order her thoughts, knowing he couldn’t push her. Eventually, she turned and looked at him, managing a faint smile. He led her up the path and in through the front door. Once her had taken her coat, he showed her to the lounge where her sister was waiting to greet her.

Madge drew her sister into a hug, realising that words would be inadequate. Jo had been through so much. Jo returned it, holding on for longer than normal. When she finally pulled back, Madge saw tears in her eyes. Sitting on the sofa, she gently pulled Jo down next to her.

“Don’t cry, Joey-baba. You’re home, now. We may be in a different house in a different country, but it’s your home, just as much as it’s mine.”

“I know. It just seems strange. Being here. I’ve been on Guernsey for over a year and, yet, I’ve not seen anything other than the hospital and the Sanatorium. I’ve not lived here before. I expect it’ll just take me a while to adjust.” Jo ran down at this point and looked anxiously at her sister, in case she had caused offence. Madge just smiled at her.

“I understand, Jo. It’s bound to take time.” Madge steered the conversation onto other things. She wanted her sister to enjoy her first taste of home in over a year.

Jo found the day passed quickly. She saw her nephews and nieces for a short time, and also Robin and Daisy. When Jem appeared with her coat, she felt ready to go. She had forgotten just how busy her sister’s house was, even when there were no visitors. When she reached her room that evening, she speedily undressed and dived under the covers, only waking when a nurse came in to remind her that it was nearly time for breakfast. She was sensible enough to decline sitting out in the garden the next day. When Jack came to seek her before he started work, he found her out on the balcony, fast asleep. He checked she was warm enough, throwing another blanket over her, to make sure, and then left her to sleep on.

Two weeks after her visit home, Jo was given another chest X-ray. Jem came to find her in the garden the next day.

“You are doing really well, now, Jo,” he told her as he sat down next to her. “So well, that I think you can go home.” Jo gaped at him. She hadn’t been expecting him to say that, at all.

“Home?” she finally managed to ask.

“Yes. I don’t see why not. You’re improving in leaps and bounds. I think it’s time for a new challenge.”
Author:  Miss Di [ Tue Apr 19, 2011 8:05 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 19/4/11
Thank you Vick! I knew if I kept the computer on long enought you'd come and do something nice for Joey (finally)
Author:  Liz K [ Tue Apr 19, 2011 8:55 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 19/4/11
Wonderful! Thank you, Vicky.
Author:  robinette [ Tue Apr 19, 2011 9:05 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 19/4/11
So glad Jo got to go home for the day and enjoyed herself. Hoping that she will cope well with going home permanently!

Thanks Vick
Author:  PaulineS [ Tue Apr 19, 2011 10:04 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 19/4/11
Thanks Vicky. Pleased Joey is going home before the School restarts.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Tue Apr 19, 2011 12:38 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 19/4/11
Thanks Vick, also for leaving me some duplo :-)

Glad things looking up for Joey.
Author:  Minim [ Tue Apr 19, 2011 4:30 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 19/4/11
Thinks things look good.

Co-ordinates all Lego/Duplo wibble-shelter building because I started all of that.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Tue Apr 19, 2011 4:51 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 19/4/11
Minim wrote:
Thinks things look good.

Co-ordinates all Lego/Duplo wibble-shelter building because I started all of that.


*Bows down in full acknowledgement of Mimim's wibble shelter mentorship. *

*wondering if I can nick the keys for Vick's monster truck while she not looking*

* also wondering if minim put a portal in wibble shelter and where it would go*

Thanks Vick, it's so nice to see Joey getting on with life gradually. Also very helpful of you as I've accidently made the triplets a year younger than they should be in my drabble, so ( if you let the triplets happen - *looks pleadingly at Vick* ) your version seem to make my EBD ism almost possible ! :-)
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Tue Apr 19, 2011 5:05 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 19/4/11
Thankyou, it's nice to see Joey getting better at long last!

But... the evacuation...
Author:  roversgirl [ Tue Apr 19, 2011 7:08 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 19/4/11
I'm glad she can go home and looking forward to what happens next! Thanks :-)
Author:  Abi [ Tue Apr 19, 2011 8:30 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 19/4/11
Glad Joey's doing so well, but also wibbling about the future.

Thanks Vick!
Author:  CareBear [ Tue Apr 19, 2011 9:03 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 19/4/11
Yippee glad joey's going home, thank you Vick
Author:  Vick [ Wed Apr 20, 2011 8:10 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 19/4/11
Thanks for all the comments :D

A week later saw Jo leaving the Sanatorium for good. She was still unsure about whether she was really going home. She had never lived at her sister’s house on Guernsey, and she probably wouldn’t be living there for long. Once he knew she was to go home, Jack was keen for them to start thinking about their marriage. They had been engaged for over a year, now, and he wanted the right to be able to look after her as her husband.

When she arrived at Bonne Maison, the Russell’s home, she was quickly drawn into the lounge by her sister. Madge explained that they didn’t have the space to offer her her own sitting room this time, but there was a chair in her bedroom for when she needed some solitude. Jo thanked her, and went to unpack the few possessions she had brought home with her.

Those first few days living at her sister’s house were strange to Jo. She couldn’t decide whether she was a guest, or if she truly lived there. As much as she loved her family, she realised that she needed to have some peace and quiet, something which was in short supply at Bonne Maison. Jack had been busy working, and had only managed to visit a couple of times. Her sister had discreetly left them alone on each occasion, but Jo knew it wasn’t an arrangement which could be kept up for much longer.

When Jack finally had a day off, he came to collect Jo and whisked her back to his own cottage for the day. Jack was insistent that they just spent the day relaxing. Jo acquiesced, relieved to be somewhere quiet. She was happy to curl up on the sofa with Jack’s arm around her and just enjoy the companionable silence between them. In fact, she fell asleep in his arms for a good hour. Jack just held her close. When she eventually woke, she stretched and looked up at Jack who smiled at her.

“I’m so sorry for falling asleep,” she apologised.

“There’s no need to apologise, Jo. If you want to sleep, I don’t mind.”

“It’s so much quieter here than at Bonne Maison. There are so many people, you can’t have any peace at all. I don’t know if it’s because it’s a smaller house, or I’m just not used to the noise, any more.” He looked at Jo, noting faint circles under her eyes, which bore out the truth of her statement.

“Maybe it’s a good time to think about organising our wedding. Then, you’ll have all the quiet you need, once you’re living here.” He smiled down at her, before adding, “I don’t think I make too much noise.” Jo smiled and slowly nodded. “Shall I talk to the priest then?” Jo agreed. They spent the rest of the morning discussing when it should be and who to invite. Jack made Jo rest after lunch. She slept on the sofa for a good two hours, only waking when Jack brought them both a drink in. Jo sat up and accepted hers, moving slightly so Jack could sit down next to her. They spent the next few hours talking and listening to the radio, until Jack finally stood up and collected their coats. He drove them back to Bonne Maison, where he was invited to stay for dinner. He accepted easily. Jo retired to bed immediately afterwards and he left for home.

Jack duly spoke to the priest and their wedding day was arranged for late August. Suddenly, there was a whirl of activity as everything had to be organised and made in a short space of time. Jo was a little overwhelmed by it all, but her sister told her not to worry and to allow her to deal with it.

A week before her wedding day, Jo was taken to the Sanatorium for X-rays and pneumothorax. She spent rest of the day in bed, as she recovered from the procedure. She didn’t manage to sleep well, though. She found Bonne Maison to be extraordinarily noisy that day. When Jem came to see how she was, he found her nearly in tears through tiredness and frustration.

“Is something wrong, Jo?”

“I can’t sleep. Every time I drop off, something wakes me back up. It’s so noisy, here, and someone keeps passing my door every two minutes.”

“I’ll have a word with everyone and make sure they don’t come near for the next few hours. You try and sleep again.” Jo obediently closed her eyes, and Jem stalked off downstairs to the lounge, where most of his family were currently congregated. He sent Robin to find the rest of them and, once she returned with them, proceeded to inform them all that they weren’t to go upstairs again until after tea and to keep the noise down.
Author:  Alison H [ Wed Apr 20, 2011 8:12 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 20/4/11
Poor Jo. It can be hard work sharing a house with a load of other people.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed Apr 20, 2011 9:33 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 20/4/11
Can completely relate to having to try and sleep in a noisy house and how frustrating it is not being able to sleep cos of the noise.

Thanks Vick
Author:  PaulineS [ Wed Apr 20, 2011 10:21 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 20/4/11
Poor Joey. I well remember trying to sleep during the day when on night duty and everyone around me was on days!

Thanks Vicky.
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Wed Apr 20, 2011 5:00 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 20/4/11
I can empathise too! I couldn't help giving a little shocked gasped at her being allowed to go to Jack's house unchaperoned - how very modern! :lol:

Thankyou!
Author:  Beecharmer [ Wed Apr 20, 2011 5:31 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 20/4/11
Thanks Vick, glad they heading towards a wedding. :-)
Author:  roversgirl [ Wed Apr 20, 2011 8:26 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 20/4/11
Poor Jo? i can understand struggling in a big, noisy household. Thanks :-)
Author:  Abi [ Wed Apr 20, 2011 9:42 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 20/4/11
Poor Jo; hard for her to try to acclimatise to such a different atmosphere.
Author:  Miss Di [ Thu Apr 21, 2011 12:54 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 20/4/11
yay a wedding is coming at last!

But I'm a little bit shocked at Jack and Joey being unsupervised all day :lol:
Author:  Vick [ Thu Apr 21, 2011 8:37 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 20/4/11
Thanks for all your comments.

You've now worried me Chubby Monkey & Miss Di about being them being unsupervised all day. :? Then I figured that he had been taking her out alone for a while before they were even engaged...

On with the story... This is the one you've all been anxiously waiting for :mrgreen:

Finally, the day of Jo and Jack’s wedding arrived. It was a lovely sunny morning, and Jo hoped it would stay that way all day. The ceremony was to be at ten o’clock, followed by a wedding breakfast back at Bonne Maison. They didn’t want a big wedding, and had only invited a handful of guests who weren’t family to join in their special day. A knock came on Jo’s door at this point. Her sister poked her head around the door, smiling when she saw Jo was awake.

“Good morning, Jo,” she said, smiling at her sister. “You stay here and I’ll go and fetch your breakfast.” Jo nodded, sitting up in bed, ready. Madge quickly returned, bearing a tray, which she placed across her sister’s knee. Jo smiled and thanked her, before tucking in to the contents. Once she had finished, she set the tray to one side and climbed out of bed. When she returned from the bathroom, her sister helped her to dress in the simple white gown, trimmed with lace, and brushed her glossy black hair until it shone, before settling her veil for her. When she was ready, Madge smiled at her with tears in her eyes.

“I hope you have a very happy day, Jo, and that your future with Jack is long and loving.” She hugged her at this, and then turned to leave. “I need to check the children are all ready and looking clean and tidy. Jem will be with you shortly, I expect.” Jo nodded. She was starting to feel nervous, now, the time was so close. She had waited for this day for over a year, and now it had finally arrived. She went over to the window and stood looking out at the view. She never heard the door open and Jem slip into the room. He came to stand next to her, waiting patiently for her to finally turn and notice him. Eventually, she did so, smiling faintly at him.

“Ready, Jo?” She nodded. Jem held out his arm to her and she took it. He could feel her trembling. Together, they went downstairs and out to the waiting car. Andreas drove them through the leafy lanes to the tiny church where the ceremony was to take place. Jem helped Jo to climb out of the car and Madge quickly straightened her dress for her. Then Jem took her arm and walked her down the aisle to give her away to Jack.

Before she knew it, Josephine Mary Bettany had become Josephine Mary Maynard and they were walking back down the aisle as husband and wife. Jack smiled down at Jo, who returned it happily. Andreas drove them back to Bonne Maison and they enjoyed a lavish wedding breakfast provided by Marie and Rosa. Afterwards, Jo disappeared up to her room to change. When she came back down, she threw her bouquet. Grizel Cochrane caught it, much to her surprise. Then, Jack took her arm and they left.

When they arrived at Jack’s cottage, Jo found she was tired. Jack made her sit down in the living room, while he made them both a drink. When he returned, she had fallen asleep, curled up in the corner of the sofa, her head on the arm. He woke her gently, and took her upstairs to the bedroom, where she laid on the bed and was soon asleep once more. Jack threw a blanket over her and went back downstairs.

Jo slept for most of the afternoon. When she finally came back downstairs, she was full of apologies. Jack waved them aside, telling her that it was only to be expected. She came over to him and they curled up together on the sofa, planning what to do over the next week as Jack was on leave. He knew they wouldn’t be able to do too much as Jo still only had eight hours time up, but they wanted to make the most of their week.

Once they had settled what they planned to do, they went into the kitchen to make something to eat. Between them, they managed to make a reasonable meal, washing up afterwards. Jo pointed out that they would have to go shopping in the morning if they were to be able to eat for the rest of the week. Jack acquiesced, suggesting that they spend the next morning in St Peter Port.

After they had eaten, Jo retired to bed. She was still tired from the excitements of the day. Andreas had brought her suitcase over earlier on in the day. She quickly found her pyjamas and washing paraphernalia, leaving the rest to unpack the next day. When Jack came to bed later, he found her fast asleep. He quickly undressed and climbed in. Curling up behind her, he laid his arm across her waist and followed suit.
Author:  brie [ Thu Apr 21, 2011 10:15 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 21/4/11
thanks for the updates, the wedding was lovely but sad as well that they couldn't enjoy it to the full
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Thu Apr 21, 2011 10:28 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 21/4/11
Thanks Vick, I'm glad they finally got their wedding. It was lovely.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Thu Apr 21, 2011 11:46 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 21/4/11
That was lovely, thanks Vick.

I really like the detail of the arm over her waist, gentle and protecting. Lovely.
Author:  PaulineS [ Thu Apr 21, 2011 1:22 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 21/4/11
Thanks Vicky. A lovely wedding which they can look back on with fond memories I am sure.
Author:  Elbee [ Thu Apr 21, 2011 2:22 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 21/4/11
Ahhhh! Glad they finally got married.

Thanks Vick.
Author:  Alison H [ Thu Apr 21, 2011 3:06 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 21/4/11
Awww :D .
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Thu Apr 21, 2011 3:27 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 21/4/11
Awww, lovely, thankyou :D

I've rather worried myself with sinister thoughts of what Jack might have been doing while Jo was asleep! But now I'm amusing myself by wondering if anyone's warned Joey to expect Jack sleeping with her - if not, he might be awoken by a rather loud scream in the morning!
Author:  roversgirl [ Thu Apr 21, 2011 7:28 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 21/4/11
That was very sweet, particularly the arm round the wasit. Thanks :)
Author:  Abi [ Thu Apr 21, 2011 8:37 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 21/4/11
Awww, so sweet. :D
Author:  Vick [ Fri Apr 22, 2011 1:15 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 21/4/11
ChubbyMonkey wrote:
But now I'm amusing myself by wondering if anyone's warned Joey to expect Jack sleeping with her - if not, he might be awoken by a rather loud scream in the morning!


Now that would be something worth reading...

*packages plot bunny up with bunny treats and leaves out for someone to pick up* :lol:

Thanks for all the comments. Updates may be a little sporadic over the next week as we are taking the girls camping for a couple of nights and have other things which desperately need to be done whilst SLOC is off work...

Another happy post. Two in a row... now that's a miracle! :lol:

Jo woke early the next morning. She rolled over and looked at Jack, who was still slumbering. She slipped out of bed and went downstairs to the kitchen. She made a pot of tea and placed it onto a tray along with two cups and some milk. She carefully carried it back up to the bedroom. Just as she was placing it on the bedside cabinet, Jack woke. He smiled sleepily at her. She climbed back into bed, feeling awkward. He pulled her into his arms, holding her close.

“Are you going to pour the tea, then?” He asked her after five minutes. Jo nodded, climbing back out of bed. Jack sat up and she handed him a cup, before she came to sit next to him with her own.

“I think I could get used to tea in bed in a morning,” he joked. Jo just smiled at him. “Do you want to use the bathroom, first?” Jo nodded and disappeared, returning ten minutes later. Jack then went off, leaving Jo to dress. Once she was ready, she pulled the bedclothes back to air and opened the windows wider. Jack came back at this point and pulled his own clothes on.

“I really should unpack my case,” she said. Jack obligingly hefted it onto the bed for her.

“There’s plenty of room in the drawers and wardrobe. I’ll go and start breakfast.” Jo smiled at him and turned to her case. Jack picked the tray up and went downstairs to the kitchen. Twenty minutes later, Jo had finished. She fastened the case, leaving it on the bed for Jack to move, before going to join him in the kitchen.

“Can you make another pot of tea, Jo?” he asked her, as she entered. Jo obligingly did as she was asked, placing it on the table when it was ready. She set two places and then sat down to wait for her breakfast. Jack placed it in front of her five minutes later.

“It’s nothing special, I’m afraid,” he told her.

“It’s fine,” she smiled. “Will you say Grace?” Jack obliged and they ate in silence. When they had finished, Jo cleared their plates away, ready to wash up. They enjoyed a second cup of tea together, before Jo went to the sink. She washed the pots and Jack dried for her. Once they had finished Jo asked for a pen and some paper and made a shopping list. Jack got the car out and they set off to St Peter Port to do their shopping.

They spent a happy morning shopping for everything they needed. Jack took Jo for lunch at one of the hotels. Afterwards, they returned home. Jo went straight upstairs to rest. She was tired and soon fell asleep on the bed, only waking when Jack brought her a drink up mid-afternoon. They spent the rest of the day curled up on the sofa listening to the radio.

The rest of the week passed quickly. They spent their mornings exploring the island, and the afternoons at home. Jack noticed that Jo had settled down into a routine and was starting to thrive now she was somewhere quieter.

Their week drew to an end, and Jack informed Jo that he would be going back to work the next day. Jo looked upset at this news, but said nothing. When she woke the following morning, she was alone. She spent the day pottering around, not really able to settle to anything. After lunch, she went and lay on the bed to rest, as usual. Normally, she would sleep but, today, she found it difficult. When she finally slept, it wasn’t restful and when she woke she still felt tired. She rolled over in an attempt to sleep some more, but it didn’t work. She decided to get up and make herself a hot drink. Just as the kettle started to whistle, the front door opened and Jack appeared in the kitchen doorway. He smiled as he watched her carefully pour the water into the teapot, before crossing the room to her. She broke into a smile as she realised he was home and turned to greet him, happily. He drew her into his arms and dropped a kiss onto her hair. Jo leaned her head on his chest as she returned the hug. She pulled away and continued making the tea, whilst Jack removed his jacket and tie and went to sit in the lounge. Jo came through a few minutes later with their drinks and curled up on the sofa next to him.

“How was your day?” she asked.

“Busy. What have you done, today?”

“Not much, really. I couldn’t settle to anything, for some reason.”

“I’m sure you will, once you’re used to having the place to yourself.” Jo nodded, but didn’t look convinced. Jack moved the conversation on to other things. When the clock chimed six, Jo went off to the kitchen to make a start on dinner. Jack could hear plenty of noise and, sensibly, decided to stay out of the way until Jo should call him. When she eventually came through to fetch him, she was covered in flour, even her hair had white streaks, where she had run her fingers through it, in her attempts to keep it out of her face. She set the dinner on the table and they both sat down to eat, talking about what Jo planned to do the next day. When they had finished, Jo removed the plates and prepared to wash to up. Jack stopped her.

“I’ll wash up. You go and have a bath. I don’t know what you were doing with the flour, but you’re covered in it, including your hair. How on earth did you manage that?”

“Oh, I had it all over my hands and my hair fell into my face,” Jo replied, smiling at him.

“Well, go and clean yourself up.” Jack kissed her and pushed her gently towards the door. He turned to survey the mess she had made and laughed. Turning on the hot tap, he slowly filled the sink and started to wash up. When he had finished, he put the kettle on the stove to make them both a drink. Going upstairs, he found Jo in the bedroom trying to rub her hair dry.

“Let me do it,” he offered. Jo handed him the towel and turned so her back was to him. He gave her hair a vigorous rubbing, until it was almost dry. The kettle started to whistle in the kitchen. “Come back down when you’re finished, and have a drink.”

“I’ve had my eight hours up, though,” Jo said, sadly. Jack came back across the room to hug her.

“In that case, I’ll bring our drinks up here.” He quickly departed and Jo could hear him in the kitchen. She slowly brushed her hair and climbed into bed. Jack soon returned with their drinks and came to sit on the bed with her. Jo drank hers, and then snuggled down under the covers. She was feeling tired, now, and yawned. Jack smiled at her, before gently smoothing her hair from her face and kissing her goodnight. Picking his book up from the bedside cabinet, he read, until he, too, was tired.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Fri Apr 22, 2011 3:17 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 22/4/11
Thanks Vick, a nice gentle update.

*Swerves to avoid plot bunny, congratulates self on such skillfull avoidance... then walks right into remembering description of that household in the book, and finding it a bit strange that Daisy and Robin lived with Newly wed Jack and Jo so soon. Now in full backstory to that, teenage issues with Madge and Jem, and then awkwardness of honeymoon period with teenagers in tow plot bunny ...*
:banghead: :banghead: :banghead: :banghead:
Author:  PaulineS [ Fri Apr 22, 2011 3:30 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 22/4/11
Thanks Vicky. They may not need Daisy and Robin yet, but they sound as if they could use Anna, both to keep Jo company and to do the cooking if Jo makes a mess of herself and the kitchen every time she tries to cook.
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Fri Apr 22, 2011 6:43 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 22/4/11
:lol: No, you're keeping that plot bunny my girl. I don't want it. Honestly, I really don't! I hope that someone madder than me does take it though!

Thankyou for another nice update. I hope that Daisy and Rob can come to keep Jo company soon.
Author:  emma t [ Fri Apr 22, 2011 7:25 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 22/4/11
Excellant diversion from what ought to happen during the honeymoon period!! :lol: Looking forward to when you do get to post more
Author:  Abi [ Fri Apr 22, 2011 9:14 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 22/4/11
They are so sweet. :D
Author:  Miss Di [ Sat Apr 23, 2011 6:39 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 22/4/11
Aww lovely, thank you.

Enjoy your camping trip, hope it doesn't rain (it always rained when my folks took us camping over Easter. Always).
Author:  Vick [ Sat Apr 23, 2011 8:44 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 22/4/11
ChubbyMonkey wrote:
:lol: No, you're keeping that plot bunny my girl. I don't want it. Honestly, I really don't! I hope that someone madder than me does take it though!


I have enough on with random plot bunny storylines from this drabble, none of which I can post yet, since they are all in the future :banghead:

Many thanks for all your comments :D Here is a little more...

The next morning, Jo and Jack spent the morning listening to the radio. At quarter past eleven, they heard the news they had been dreading. Britain had declared war on Germany. Jack pulled Jo into his arms. He could feel her trembling, as she fought emotions forgotten since she had left the Sanatorium. He knew she was still easily upset by anything like this. He held her close for a long time, before he looked down into her black eyes, full of unshed tears.

“It’ll be all right, Jo,” he said, gently.

“It won’t be, though, will it? And what about all those people who are already suffering? All my friends who are still in Austria and Germany? All the people who will have to go and fight? They may make you go, too. You’re the right age and they’ll need doctors.” The tears trickled down her cheeks, and Jack realised she was letting her imagination run away with her.

“Stop it, Jo! You’ll make yourself ill again if you keep this up.” He shook her slightly and she gulped, though the tears still fell. He went to make them both a drink, returning with a steaming cup in each hand.

“Here, drink this,” he told her, handing one to her.

“I-I’m sorry,” she whispered.

“I know. You have to stop letting your imagination to run away with you. I may be conscripted, but I hope not. We can’t worry about things that may or may not happen in the future. For now, I think you should go and lie down and rest.” Jo just nodded. Jack pulled her to her feet and she made her way up to the bedroom. When he checked on her ten minutes later, she was fast asleep.

He made himself something to eat. He had to be at work in a couple of hours. He looked in on Jo, just before he left, but she was still sleeping. Scribbling a note, he propped it on the bedside cabinet, where she would see it when she finally woke. Jo slept for most of the afternoon, only waking because she was hungry. She saw Jack’s note and picked it up.

Gone to work. Will be back late. Don’t worry. I love you. Jack xxx

She smiled and replaced it. She put her dressing gown and slippers on and headed to the kitchen to make herself something to eat and a drink. When she had finished, she collected her book from in the lounge and headed back upstairs to bed. She intended to read for a while, but she soon fell back to sleep, the book slipping from her hand. When Jack arrived home, he found the lamp still burning and the book open on the bed. He picked it up, before gently removing the pillows from behind her so she was more comfortable. He crawled in beside her and kissed her forehead.
Author:  Minim [ Sat Apr 23, 2011 8:49 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 22/4/11
*starts building extra-large Lego wibble shelter because it's been too good lately*
Author:  Abi [ Sat Apr 23, 2011 9:04 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 23/4/11
Poor Jo; she'd feel completely lost without Jack in this universe. :(
Author:  PaulineS [ Sat Apr 23, 2011 9:54 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 23/4/11
Thanks Vicky. I hope Jo goes to England sooner rather then later in this Universe.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Sun Apr 24, 2011 12:33 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 23/4/11
Yay!! Double dose of Vick!! (that was meant to be a compliment, but somehow reads a bit like extra strength cold relief medicine)

Hope they can avoid the nasty crossing, but guess its not possible.

Thank you. :-)
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sun Apr 24, 2011 4:45 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 23/4/11
Thanks Vick, am loving this interlude
Author:  chris84 [ Sun Apr 24, 2011 12:15 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 23/4/11
Thanks Vick, am really enjoying this but poor Jo.
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Sun Apr 24, 2011 2:20 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 23/4/11
Well, at least we knew it was coming.

*resigns self to inevitable and gets out chocolate biscuits - anyone joining me?*

Thankyou!
Author:  Jools [ Sun Apr 24, 2011 6:46 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 23/4/11
Oops appear to have eaten all of the biscuits whilst worrying about Jo. Surreptitiously replaces with a brand new packet and tiptoes away.
Author:  emma t [ Sun Apr 24, 2011 6:57 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 23/4/11
awwwww!!! :) hope you are eating lots of chocolate to feed the plot bunny :P
Author:  Vick [ Sun Apr 24, 2011 11:21 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 23/4/11
Thanks for all your comments :D

Hope you've all had a good Easter. Have drunk slightly too much wine tonight but, hey, here's an update anyway...

“You have your appointment at the Sanatorium, tomorrow,” Jack told Jo when he arrived home from work, a couple of weeks later.

Jo just nodded in acknowledgement. He came over to hug her, but she quickly pulled away, going into the kitchen to make them a drink.

“Is everything all right, Jo?”

“Everything is fine, Jack. Go and sit down.” Jo busied herself with the teapot and cups. Jack left her, realising that she wanted to be alone. It was her way of coping with her illness. He knew she still found it difficult to accept that he was also her doctor. He found her to be distant that evening as she withdrew into herself.

Once they had eaten dinner and washed up, Jo went to the door.

“Goodnight, Jack.” She disappeared upstairs, not even kissing him goodnight, something she would normally do. Jack watched her go, wanting to be with her. He felt oddly alone and realised that this was probably how Jo had felt most of the time she was in the Sanatorium. He made a drink for himself, debating whether he should go upstairs to her. When he had finished he decided to risk it and went to check if she was still awake. She was lying with her back to the door, but he could hear the quiet rattle of his rosary as she allowed the beads to slip through her fingers. He lay on the bed next to her, but remained silent, not wishing to force her confidence. Eventually, she rolled over to face him. Saying nothing, she just snuggled into the crook of his arm, laying her head on his chest. He stroked her hair and the slow, rhythmic movement soothed her more than words could have done. She fell asleep with her arm across him.

The next morning, Jo woke to another note from Jack. This time it was about her appointment.

Jem will pick you up at 2.30 and I’ll bring you home when you’ve finished. Love, Jack xxx

Jo spent the morning reading, before making herself a sandwich for lunch. Normally, she would make dinner for them, but she knew she would be unable to do much when she arrived back. She decided to prepare the vegetables, now. This was quickly finished and she left the pans on the stove. She went upstairs and lay on the bed to rest until Jem arrived. She was woken by knocking on the door. Sliding off the bed, she poked her head out of the window. Jem was standing at the door.

“I’ll be two minutes,” she called down.

“Don’t rush!” Jem called back, but Jo had disappeared. He heard footsteps coming down the stairs and smiled as she opened the door. She returned it as she stepped back to let him inside.

“I won’t be long. You woke me, so I just need to straighten myself out.” Jem grinned to himself. Her hair was all over and her skirt was looking crumpled.

“Hurry up, then. I have to start work in half an hour and it’s still a good fifteen minutes drive from here.” Jo disappeared back upstairs, returning ten minutes later, looking much neater. She grabbed her coat and handbag from the hallway.

“Ready,” she said.

Jem quickly drove them to the Sanatorium. He left Jo to find her own way to X-ray and the operating theatre waiting room. Once she had had her pneumothorax, she was taken to Jem’s office.

“I think you’re doing well enough to try ten hours time up now, Jo.”

“Thank you.” Jo beamed at him. Jem went to the door and stopped a passing nurse.

“Please could you take Mrs Maynard to the entrance hall to wait for her lift home.” Jack was already waiting for her and he helped her to the car, driving quickly home. He unlocked the door and helped her upstairs to the bedroom, leaving her to undress and climb into bed. When he looked in on her ten minutes later, she was sleeping.

It was nearly seven o’clock, when Jo woke again. She could hear movement downstairs and the smell of cooking wafted up to her. She lay quietly, trying to breathe normally, as she had been told to. She was just dozing back off when she heard Jack coming up the stairs. He came in bearing a tray in each hand. Setting one carefully on the bedside cabinet, he turned the light on. Jo quickly closed her eyes against the harsh glare, before slowly opening them again.

“Sorry,” Jack said, seeing her blink. “I didn’t wake you, did I?” Jo shook her head. “I’ve brought you some dinner.” Jo slowly sat up in the bed. Jack pushed some pillows behind her, and then placed one of the trays across her knee. Jo smiled her thanks at him as he sat next to her with the other tray. When they had finished, he returned them to the kitchen. After he had finished washing up, he brought a hot drink up .

“What did Jem say?”

“Ten hours, now.”

“That’s good news,” he said, smiling at her. Jo nodded and yawned. “Shall I leave you to sleep in peace?” Jo shook her head. Jack stayed where he was, holding her hand until she fell back to sleep.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Sun Apr 24, 2011 11:49 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 25/4/11
Thanks Vick, she's getting there slowly but surely :-)

I did have a mini wibble at the idea of her leaving the house with pots on the stove, but thankfully you are not as evil as I would have been and haven't let her burn the house down :-)
Author:  Alison H [ Mon Apr 25, 2011 5:53 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 25/4/11
She's getting there! It must be strange for Jack being married but living as friends, though.
Author:  PaulineS [ Mon Apr 25, 2011 8:54 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 25/4/11
Thanks Vicky. It is good to see the continued improvement.
Author:  emma t [ Mon Apr 25, 2011 5:33 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 25/4/11
Glad that Joey is improving :)
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Mon Apr 25, 2011 7:41 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 23/4/11
Vick wrote:
“Don’t rush!” Jem called back, but Jo had disappeared. He heard footsteps coming down the stairs and smiled as she opened the door. She returned it as she stepped back to let him inside.

“I won’t be long. You woke me, so I just need to straighten myself out.” Jem grinned to himself. Her hair was all over and her skirt was looking crumpled.

“Hurry up, then.


How very contradictory and typical of a man! :lol:

Thanks for the update; slightly more positive, this time...
Author:  roversgirl [ Mon Apr 25, 2011 7:52 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 25/4/11
Just caught up on three lovely days. Hope things continue this way but am wibbling a bit. Thanks :-)
Author:  Abi [ Mon Apr 25, 2011 8:53 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 25/4/11
It's good to see Joey improving again. Hope nothing else happens to set her back.
Author:  Vick [ Mon Apr 25, 2011 10:49 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 25/4/11
Thanks for all the comments :D

I know it's still technically the 25th but, I'm going to Filey for a few days first thing in the morning, so I thought I'd let you have this little update tonight.

Enjoy... :lol:

A week after Jo’s appointment, Jack came home from work one afternoon to find a letter waiting for him. It was his call-up papers. The war had been going on for three weeks, now. He had hoped that he would avoid at least the first round of conscription, but it wasn’t to be. He went to find Jo. She had obviously picked the letter up and placed it on the mantelpiece for him. She wasn’t in the house. This was unusual, as she generally left him a note if she went out. He quickly checked all the obvious places, in case he had missed one, but none was to be found. He went outside to check she wasn’t in the garden. Nothing. He was extremely worried, now, it was so unlike Jo to just disappear. Going back indoors, he put the kettle on. He was just about to go and phone her sister to see if she was there, when he heard the front door open. Going into the hall, he saw Jo slowly hanging her coat up, breathing heavily.

“Jo? Where have you been? I was worried about you.”

“I needed to walk,” she gasped out.

“Go and sit down. I’ll make you a drink.” Jo obeyed, going slowly into the lounge. Jack went to the kitchen and made them both a drink. He returned a few minutes later, to find Jo curled up in the corner of the sofa, her head on the arm. Setting their cups on the table next to her, he crouched down so he could see her face. Her eyes were bright with unshed tears, and she was still breathing quite heavily.

“That letter. You’ve been called up, haven’t you?” she whispered.

“Yes. I have to report in the next few days. Is that why you went walking?” Jo nodded.

“I couldn’t stay here. I needed to clear my head.”

“By walking yourself into this state? That won’t help either of us.” Jo’s tears began to fall, and Jack gently wiped them away. “Don’t cry, Joey. You knew it might happen.”

“Not so soon, though.”

“We saw what was happening when we were still in Austria. I had a small taste of it that week I was taken to Innsbruck. If I can help the people fighting that regime, then I should go.” Jo didn’t answer. She knew he was right. She managed to sit up and picked her drink up. Jack watched her, anxiously. When she replaced the cup, he suggested she go up to bed. She just nodded, but made no attempt to move. She was exhausted. He hauled her gently to her feet, placing his arm quickly around her waist when she swayed. Once he got her up to the bedroom, he helped her into her pyjamas and tucked her into bed. Kissing her, he left her to sleep.

When Jack woke the next morning, he rolled over and looked at Jo. She was still sleeping, and looked even paler than normal. He knew that she would be spending the next few days in bed to recover. He wasn’t at work until later on, so he could look after her until he had to leave. He slipped out of bed and quietly dressed. Going downstairs, he made himself some breakfast. He checked on Jo an hour later and found she had just woken up.

“How do you feel?” he asked, sitting down on the bed.

“Tired.”

“Stay where you are and rest for today. You did too much, yesterday. Would you like something to eat?” Jo shook her head.

“Just a drink, please.” Jack looked keenly at her. He knew she needed to eat, but wasn’t going to force her, yet. He went off to the kitchen, quickly returning with a drink. She had dozed back off, so he gently placed it on the bedside cabinet, in case she woke. When he appeared at lunch time with a sandwich for her, she was still sleeping. He woke her and told her to sit up.

“I’m not hungry,” she protested.

“You have to eat, otherwise you’ll end up back in the Sanatorium,” he told her. He passed her the plate and picked up the now-cold drink from earlier. “I’ll go and get you a fresh drink. When I get back, I want that plate to be empty.” He walked off at this, leaving Jo alone again. When he reached the kitchen, he dropped heavily into one of the chairs, rested his elbows on the table and put his head in his hands. He hated having to be so authoritative to his wife. She was impulsive in her nature, though. He knew the reason for her walk yesterday. She hadn’t thought about how easily she could make herself ill again. Jack worried how she would cope when he was gone. He decided to have a word with Jem, when he got to work. He had to tell him about the call-up papers, anyway. He stood back up and made a drink for himself and Jo, slowly returning to the bedroom. Jo had managed to finish the sandwich, and he smiled at her. Setting the cups down, he sat down beside her, pulling her into his arms.

“I’m sorry,” Jo said into his chest. “For yesterday. I didn’t mean to worry you. I just needed to stop myself from thinking about all the awful things that might happen to you. Walking was the only way I could do it.”

“I know, Jo. I can’t help worrying, though. You mean the world to me and I don’t want you to make yourself ill again. You could so easily have set yourself back, by walking like that. I understand why you needed to do it, but it hasn’t helped. You’ve ended up having to spend today in bed, and tomorrow, too.” Jack held her tighter, wishing he could stay with her, but he needed to get to work. He reluctantly let her go, and she lay back down. “I have to go to work, now. You get some more sleep. Your sister is coming over, so you won’t be alone.” He kissed her and left her to sleep.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Mon Apr 25, 2011 11:20 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
Poor Jo, she still doesn't understand the need for absolute routine, nor that she is still sufficiently far from fully recovered that the slightest over-exertion, whether physical or mental, can set her back. TB remains such a treacherous illness in this time period before the advent of streptomycin.

I do hope it's possible for someone to go and stay with her once Jack has to leave, rather than her being plunged back into the more hectic life at Madge's home.

Thanks, Vick - I continue to enjoy this.

Have a great time at Filey and I hope the weather stays kind for you. Wonder if the beach is still as wonderful as it used to be?
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Tue Apr 26, 2011 12:41 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
I wonder if Daisy or the Robin will move it to help keep her mind off Jack being away or is it too much of a risk for Robin? Or Anna? Doesn't she arrive around about now?

Thanks Vick
Author:  roversgirl [ Tue Apr 26, 2011 4:22 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
I hope they find a solution so Joey doesn't stay alone; Thanks :)
Author:  Alison H [ Tue Apr 26, 2011 5:38 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
Thanks Vick. Enjoy Filey!
Author:  Miss Di [ Tue Apr 26, 2011 6:48 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
Thanks for sharing Joeys slow but ongoing improvements. Enjoy Filey (wherever/whatever it may be)
Author:  chris84 [ Tue Apr 26, 2011 7:09 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
Thanks for the update :D. Enjoy Filey! :) :)
Author:  PaulineS [ Tue Apr 26, 2011 9:14 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
Thanks Vicky. Enjoy Filey.

Hoping that Robin and Daisy come to stay which makes sense under these circumstances, they not are imposing on a newly married couple, but helping both Jo and Madge by giving Madge space and Jo company.
Author:  Chris S [ Tue Apr 26, 2011 1:38 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
Thanks Vicky. Reading your story made me wonder how I would have coped if my husband had gone off to war when we were newly married. It doesn't really bear thinking about, but it happened to such a lot of young women. Those with children stayed at home, but everyone else went out to work. Jo didn't fit into either camp, added to which she needed looking after. I've never liked Jo, but the more I read the more I'm warming to her. Enjoy your trip to Filey.
Author:  emma t [ Tue Apr 26, 2011 3:01 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
Thanks Vick! Enjoy Filey - have some fond memories of school holidays spent there :D
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Wed Apr 27, 2011 4:56 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
I hope that you enjoy your holiday. Now I'm wibbling lots and lots and lots; if Jack is worrying about her and then gets a letter saying that she's pregnant... with triplets...

Thankyou :D
Author:  thefrau46 [ Thu Apr 28, 2011 4:08 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
she's pregnant... with triplets...

Have I missed something? Have they actually consummated the marriage? According to my reading there seems to have been a lot of Jack's kissing Joey and her falling asleep but nothing else! Or as this is not St Mildred's, was I supposed to imagine the rest? :lol:
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Thu Apr 28, 2011 4:31 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
For poor Jack's sake, I've been desperately hoping we just imagine the rest! (Which I haven't been, I hasten to add, for the record!)
Author:  thefrau46 [ Thu Apr 28, 2011 8:12 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
:D Thanks, Chubby Monkey. I'm loving this drabble.
Author:  Vick [ Fri Apr 29, 2011 2:10 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 26/4/11
ChubbyMonkey wrote:
For poor Jack's sake, I've been desperately hoping we just imagine the rest! (Which I haven't been, I hasten to add, for the record!)


I'm definitely leaving all that to your imaginations! :shock: I found it hard enough to write an engagement & marriage.

We had a lovely time in Filey. C loved camping, but E was a lot more dubious. It was freezing cold at night, though sunny during the day, so we got to build sandcastles on the beach :D

Thanks for all the comments. Have a little more...

Jo slept all afternoon. Her sister came to sit with her, but didn’t disturb her. When Jack had rung her that morning he had just told her that Jo was unwell, and could she come and sit with her, while he was at work. It wasn’t until Jem came to the cottage on his way home from his own shift, that she discovered the reason why. Madge let him in and they went into the kitchen, where they would be unlikely to disturb Jo, as the bedroom was above the lounge.

“Jack’s been called up,” Jem said, as he sat down in one of the chairs.

“That’s awful news. When does he have to go?”

“In a few days. He found out yesterday. Apparently, Jo guessed when the letter dropped through the door and she picked it up.”

“Is that what’s wrong with her? Jack just said she was unwell on the ‘phone this morning.”

“She went walking to try and stop her imagination running wild. She was in a terrible state when she finally arrived back home.”

“Why didn’t she just ring me? If she didn’t want to be alone, I could have come over.”

“You’d have to ask Jo that question. All I know is that she’s now exhausted herself, and Jack’s making her stay in bed whilst she recovers.” Madge just nodded. Her thoughts alternated between anger at Jo for going walking when she wasn’t up to it, and feeling sorry for her as she had had such a short time to enjoy married life with Jack.

“Is she still sleeping?” Jem asked.

“She was when I checked an hour ago. Do you want me to go and see?” Jem nodded and Madge quickly ran upstairs, returning a minute or so later. “Still fast on. I don’t think she’s even moved since last time I checked.”

“Good. Jack also asked me if we could think of anything to keep Jo occupied, while he’s gone, so she doesn’t fret. I told him I would ask you.” Madge looked thoughtful for a few minutes, before going to turn the ring on underneath the kettle. When she had placed a drink in front of her husband, sitting down opposite him with her own, she had an idea.

“What about if Robin comes to stay here, with her? She’s missing Jo, now she doesn’t live with us,” she asked.

“Hmm. That may be an idea. She isn’t noisy and would be at school during the day, so Jo can still rest properly.”

“The only thing is that Daisy would miss her company. Unless Daisy comes here, too.”

“It’s certainly much closer for them to cycle to school from here. Daisy is so much more boisterous than Robin, though. I don’t know if Jo could cope with her as well as Robin.”

“It’s mainly the weekends that Jo will struggle with her. We could insist that they both spend Saturdays at our house, so Jo can have a break.”

“We could always try it. If it’s obvious that Daisy is too much for her, she can come back to us. I’ll suggest it to Jack and see what he thinks.” He stood up at this. “I’ll just have a quick look at Jo, and then I’ll get off home.” He disappeared upstairs and was gone a good ten minutes. Madge concluded that her sister had woken, and set about preparing something for her to eat. She had just put the meal onto a tray, when he came back in. He smiled at her, but she could see he wasn’t happy.

“Make sure she eats it,” he told her. He kissed her goodbye, and left. Madge took the tray up to Jo. She was sitting up in bed, but looked very tired and pale. Placing the tray across her knee, Madge smiled at her. Jo returned it with a wan one of her own.

“I’m not hungry, Madge.”

“Jem says you have to eat it. If you don’t, you’ll be facing his wrath, as well as Jack’s.” Knowing Jem’s wrath all too well, Jo reluctantly picked up her fork and tried to make an effort. She managed to eat most of it, though she refused anything else. Madge didn’t push her. She was just relieved to see she had eaten something. She took the tray from Jo, who immediately lay back down, and was soon asleep once more. Madge departed back to the kitchen to wash up. Just as she had finished, and was putting the last plate away in the cupboard, Jack came in through the door.

“How is Jo?” he asked her.

“She’s just eaten something and gone back to sleep again.” Madge replied.

“Good. Thank you for staying with her.”

“You’re welcome. Do you need me to come tomorrow?”

“No. It’s my day off, so I can manage.”

“Just ring me if you need me. I don’t mind coming to sit with her.” Madge picked her coat up at this. Jack escorted her to the door, and watched her climb into her car and set off for her own home. Climbing into bed as quietly as he could, so as not to disturb Jo, he was soon asleep.

Jo stayed in bed for the next two days. Jack finally allowed her up again the day before he was due to present himself at the recruiting office. Jem had given him the day off so he could spend the time with Jo. They didn’t go out since Jo wasn’t allowed to do anything strenuous. Jack could see she was trying to keep her emotions in check, so she didn’t spoil his last day at home. Towards the end of the afternoon, they were sitting on the sofa, Jo curled up next to him, her head on his chest and his arms around her.

“Jo?” he murmured.

“Mmm?”

“I want you to promise me something.” Jo didn’t reply, so he carried on, “Promise me you won’t go walking again, like you did a few days ago and that you’ll try not to worry too much. I don’t want to come back and find you back in the Sanatorium.” Jo made no sound, but he could feel her body shaking as she sobbed silently into his shirt. He tightened his grip on her, allowing her to cry. Eventually, he moved, forcing her to sit up. He wiped her tears away, and held her face up to his. He could see love and anguish in her eyes, and felt tears pricking the back of his own eyes. “Promise me, Joey.”

“I-I promise,” she whispered.

“I love you, Joey Maynard. I love you more than anything, and I’m going to come back to you as soon as I possibly can. I want you to be here when I do come back.” He drew her back into his arms again at this, his tears falling on her hair.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Fri Apr 29, 2011 2:15 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 29/4/11
Thanks Vick. This makes so much more sense than exile to me.

Poor Jo though.

Glad you had a good time and got to make some sandcastles :-)
Author:  Alison H [ Fri Apr 29, 2011 5:29 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 29/4/11
Jo's lucky that she's got Madge and Jem there: they're being brilliant.
Author:  whitequeen [ Fri Apr 29, 2011 6:53 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 29/4/11
That's really sad, I feel so sorry for Jo. Horrible to be newly married and losing your husband so soon. :( I couldn't imagine it.
Author:  PaulineS [ Fri Apr 29, 2011 7:54 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 29/4/11
Poor Joey and Jack, they have had so little time together due to her illness that his call up will be hard for them both. Pleased Madge and Jem are going to let Robin and Daisy stay with Jo. I hope it helps.

Thanks Vicky, pleased you had a good time in Filey.
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Fri Apr 29, 2011 8:11 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 29/4/11
:cry: How horrible for them - and is she still going to get her telegram, as well?

Thankyou!
Author:  emma t [ Fri Apr 29, 2011 8:24 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 29/4/11
Have a tear in my eye :( must be awful to have to go away to war when you are just married. Hope that Joey doesnt fret too much
Author:  Abi [ Fri Apr 29, 2011 8:47 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 29/4/11
Awful for both of them. Thanks Vick. :(
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sat Apr 30, 2011 2:49 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 29/4/11
Thanks Vick, that was so sad
Author:  roversgirl [ Sat Apr 30, 2011 7:13 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 29/4/11
This is awful for all of them. I would like to see Robin and Daisy living with Jo. It's the only thing missing for me as I liked their close relationship with Jo in the books. Thanks :-)
Author:  Vick [ Sat Apr 30, 2011 8:59 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 29/4/11
Many thanks for all your comments :D

Three weeks after Jack’s departure, Jo was beginning to settle into a new routine. Robin and Daisy had duly moved in with her, and were sharing the spare room. Their company was a distraction from her worry over what might be happening to Jack. She enjoyed hearing their chatter about school, and what their friends were doing. When she was alone, she tried to occupy herself with other distractions. She was mindful of her promise to Jack on his last day and hadn’t gone walking to try and clear her mind. Her sense of responsibility towards Robin and Daisy also stopped her.

Winter drew in, and with it the bad weather. Jo had received a few brief notes from Jack, but none of them calmed her fears for his safety. She tried to keep them to herself, not wanting to worry anyone else. As a result, she had a shorter temper than usual, snapping at the smallest provocation. Jem spoke to her the day after her next appointment at the Sanatorium when he came round to see how she was managing. They were alone in the house, as Robin and Daisy were at school.

“How are you coping, Jo?”

“Okay. I think I’ve got used to taking it slowly for the next few days after my treatment, now.”

“I don’t mean that. You’re worrying, aren’t you?”

“Oh.” Jo lapsed into silence as she tried to gather her thoughts. Jem watched her, concerned. “I just feel as if something isn’t right. With Jack. I don’t know what it is, though. I haven’t heard from him, at all, this past week.”

“I’m sure he’s fine. He probably just hasn’t had any time to write, that’s all.”

“That’s not like him. He’s written every week, however briefly.” Jo stared, uneasily, at the fire in the grate.

“Don’t let your imagination run away with you, Jo. Remember what happened last time.”

“I know. I’m trying not to. I promise.”

“If you want to talk about anything, your sister or I will always make time for you. We don’t want you to make yourself ill again, through worry. Nor would Jack want it.” Jo nodded, though she stayed silent. She knew Jem cared about her well-being but her feelings were too deep for her to try and talk to anyone, let alone her brother-in-law. He left her not long afterwards and she managed to occupy herself with innocuous tasks until Robin and Daisy arrived home.

Her worries re-surfaced that night when she was alone in bed. She tossed and turned, unable to sleep. In frustration, she climbed back out of bed and went downstairs to make herself a hot drink. Turning the ring on below the kettle, she slowly prepared the teapot. She was tired and not paying attention to what she was doing. When the kettle started to whistle, she turned the ring off and lifted it to pour the water. She was holding the teapot steady in her left hand when the water missed the teapot and she poured it over herself. Dropping the kettle onto the side, she screamed as the pain began to register. This woke both Robin and Daisy, who came racing downstairs to see what the noise was about. Jo was just standing in the middle of the kitchen in tears and holding her left hand.

“Jo? What’s happened?” Robin asked. She saw Jo was holding her hand and wrist, which were bright red. “Have you hurt yourself?” Jo just nodded, unable to speak. Catching sight of the steaming kettle on the kitchen side, she ran across the room and pulled Jo to the sink. Turning the cold tap on, she thrust Jo’s hand underneath it.

“Daisy, go and ring Bonne Maison and ask Jem to come.” Daisy nodded and ran to the telephone. Robin could hear odd words over the noise of the tap and hoped Jem was home. Daisy re-appeared a minute or so later.

“He’s on his way,” she said. “He said to keep running cold water on it until he got here.” Robin nodded. Daisy shivered, feeling cold. She realised that neither she and Robin were wearing dressing gowns or slippers, such was their haste to get downstairs. She quickly ran back up and put hers on, bringing Robin’s down for her. She had just dumped them on the kitchen table, when a knock came at the door and she ran to let her uncle in. He strode over to the sink and gently moved Robin out of the way, telling her to dry her hands and to put her dressing gown on, then wait in the lounge with Daisy.

Jem quickly dealt with Jo, who said nothing the whole time. She was in shock and, once he had bandaged her up and given her some painkillers, he escorted her back up to bed and tucked her in, telling her to stay where she was in the morning. He then went back downstairs and into the lounge. Robin and Daisy were both curled up together on the sofa.

“Do you know what happened?” he asked, as he sat with them.

“No. We just heard a scream and came down to see Jo standing in the middle of the room, holding her arm,” Robin explained. “Is she all right?”

“She’s a little shocked, but otherwise, yes. She’ll have some pain from that scald for a while, though. You did the right thing to call me,” he replied. Daisy yawned. “Now, I think you had both better go back to bed. It’s late and you should both be asleep. Don’t worry about school in the morning, we’ll let Miss Annersley know you won’t be there for the first lesson. I’ll come back first thing to check on Jo and talk to you then.” He stood up at this, the girls following suit. They both went upstairs and quickly climbed into bed, Jem tucking them in. “Goodnight.” He left them at that and let himself out the door, pushing the key back through the letterbox.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Sat Apr 30, 2011 10:52 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 30/4/11
:cry: Poor Jo :-(

Well done to the girls for dealing with it so calmy.

Thank you.
Author:  Abi [ Sat Apr 30, 2011 8:12 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 30/4/11
Oh dear, poor Jo. :(
Author:  PaulineS [ Sat Apr 30, 2011 8:16 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 30/4/11
That hand will hurt. Hope Jo hears from Jack soon.

Thanks Vicky.
Author:  emma t [ Sat Apr 30, 2011 9:27 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 30/4/11
Poor Joey, hope she's going to hear from Jack soon
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sun May 01, 2011 2:24 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 30/4/11
emma t wrote:
Poor Joey, hope she's going to hear from Jack soon


I hope so too
Author:  Miss Di [ Sun May 01, 2011 10:13 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 30/4/11
Well at least they didn't try and butter it! I've always wondered how on earth butter was considered good for burns.

Thanks for the updates, hope Jo hears from Jack soon. Please?
Author:  jmc [ Sun May 01, 2011 11:20 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 30/4/11
I hope she hears from Jack soon as the longer this goes on the more she will fret and then she might get sicker again.
Author:  chris84 [ Sun May 01, 2011 11:41 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 30/4/11
Poor Joey :cry: :cry:. Also hope that she hears from Jack soon. Thanks Vick.
Author:  Vick [ Sun May 01, 2011 2:08 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 30/4/11
Thanks for your comments :D

The next morning, Jem came to check on them. The girls had just risen and were eating breakfast when he knocked on the door. Picking the key up from the mat, Robin let him in. He followed her to the kitchen, where he accepted a drink. They both looked a little tired, still.

“Is Jo awake, yet?” he asked them.

“She wasn’t half an hour ago, when we came down,” Robin replied.

Jem nodded. “You had both better get off to school, if you’ve finished. If you go now, you’ll be there in time for break.” Robin stood up at this and went to find her things, whilst Daisy quickly finished her drink, before following. Jem looked after them and smiled. It had been a good idea to send them to Jo. They were growing up fast, now, and the calm they had showed the previous night had impressed him. He thought of his sister and how proud she would be of Daisy. Once he had seen them both setting off for school on their bicycles, he went upstairs to check on Jo. She had just woken, and was rather dejected.

“How are you feeling, Jo?” Jem came over to the side of the bed.

“It hurts.”

“I’m not surprised. What were you doing downstairs at that time of night, anyway?”

“I couldn’t sleep. I thought if I went and made a drink it might help. I managed to miss the teapot somehow.”

“Luckily, Robin and Daisy heard you scream and came to investigate.”

“Where are they?”

“Gone to school. They left about ten minutes ago. I’ll leave you some painkillers on the kitchen side.” He set off towards the door. When he reached it, he turned back to her. “Try not to do anything with that hand. I’ll come to look at it tomorrow and change the dressing.” He left her alone once more at this.

Jo sighed and threw back the covers with her good hand. She went to the bathroom and managed to have some sort of a wash. She found getting dressed to be a challenge, especially trying to fasten buttons one-handed. She felt thankful that she had kept her hair in a short bob since leaving the Sanatorium.

Madge came round to see her and stayed for lunch. Jo was thankful for some company to take her mind off the pain and her worry about Jack. Madge kept the conversation light, but could tell her sister was still worrying. She didn’t push the matter, knowing that if Jo wanted to talk, she would do so in her own time.
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Sun May 01, 2011 4:00 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 1/5/11
Oh dear - Jack can't have disappeared already, can he? And what about Joey being busy?

Lots of wibbling here. I should take up knitting to do while I wibble!

Thankyou.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Sun May 01, 2011 4:13 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 1/5/11
Thank you Vick, I'm glad the girls are there with Joey too, wish could stop her worrying but can totally understand why she is doing so.
Author:  chris84 [ Sun May 01, 2011 4:23 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 1/5/11
Thanks Vick. :D
Author:  emma t [ Sun May 01, 2011 5:51 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 1/5/11
ChubbyMonkey wrote:
Oh dear - Jack can't have disappeared already, can he? And what about Joey being busy?

Lots of wibbling here. I should take up knitting to do while I wibble!

Thankyou.

I was also wondering about Joey being busy too, any sign of that news yet? thanks, Vick!
Author:  Abi [ Sun May 01, 2011 7:13 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 1/5/11
Also wibbling a bit about Joey...
Author:  roversgirl [ Sun May 01, 2011 7:39 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 1/5/11
Poor Joey. I hope she finds a way to cope. Thanks :)
Author:  PaulineS [ Sun May 01, 2011 7:44 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 1/5/11
Thanks Vicky, I too hope that Jo hers from Jack soon. Wibbling that it is when Jack had the chest infection and was not in touch for a while in EBD universe.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sun May 01, 2011 10:01 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 1/5/11
Thanks Vick, really hope Joey hasn't heard from Jack due to slow post or something.
Author:  Miss Di [ Mon May 02, 2011 2:53 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 30/4/11
Vick wrote:
She felt thankful that she had kept her hair in a short bob since leaving the Sanatorium.


Three Cheers for Vick for getting rid of the Princess Leia earphones! :lol:
Author:  Vick [ Tue May 03, 2011 7:35 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 1/5/11
*bows to Mis Di's cheers.* :lol:

emma t wrote:
ChubbyMonkey wrote:
Oh dear - Jack can't have disappeared already, can he? And what about Joey being busy?

Lots of wibbling here. I should take up knitting to do while I wibble!

Thankyou.

I was also wondering about Joey being busy too, any sign of that news yet? thanks, Vick!


I would like to point out that it is late November 1939. They didn't get married until late August 1939 in this universe, therefore.... :devil:

Thanks for all your comments. Hope this prevents any more wibbling for a short while :D

A week after her accident with the kettle, Jo went over to visit her sister one morning. When she returned, she let herself in, closing the door behind her. She was slowly undoing the buttons on her coat, when Jack appeared in the doorway of the lounge. Jo stared at him for a minute, before flinging herself into his arms.

“Oh, Jack! How I’ve missed you. I’ve been so worried about you, too.” She hugged him tightly. He returned it, before putting her away from him.

“I’ve missed you, as well. How about you finish taking your coat off and then we can sit in the warmth, instead of standing here in the hallway.” Jo smiled and finished her buttons, before shrugging her coat from her shoulders. Jack noticed she was doing everything one-handed, and then caught a glimpse of white covering her left hand. He came and took her coat from her, before it landed on the floor. After he had hung it up, he gently took her left arm in his hands.

“What have you been doing, Jo?”

“I managed to miss the teapot,” she told him, ruefully. Jack sighed and released her arm, before leading her into the lounge where a fire was burning merrily in the grate. He sat down on the sofa, and Jo curled up next to him, leaning her head on his chest. They sat in silence for a while, just glad to be together again. Eventually, Jack broke the silence.

“Don’t you want to know why I’m back?” Jo sat up and looked at him, enquiringly. “I’ve been ill. They’ve given me three weeks sick leave.”

“Oh, Jack!” Tears welled up in her eyes. “How ill? It must have been bad for them to send you home.”

“It was quite bad.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I didn’t want you to be worried, Jo. You’ve enough on your plate, as it is.”

“That doesn’t stop me from worrying about you, Jack. That’s how I did this.” She pulled back from him and held up her bandaged hand. “When I hadn’t heard from you in over a week, I couldn’t sleep one night and decided to get up and make myself a drink. Somehow, I managed to pour the water over my hand, instead of into the teapot.” Jack drew her into his arms once more, dropping a kiss onto her hair.

“I’m sorry. I thought it would be better if you didn’t know at the time. I didn’t want you to worry any more than you already were and make yourself ill again.” He changed the subject. “How have you been managing to do anything, with only one hand?”

“Slowly. Robin and Daisy have been wonderful. They’ve helped out with everything, including making dinner every night.”

“Speaking of eating, isn’t it lunch time, now?” Jo glanced at the clock on the mantelpiece and stood up.

“It is, but you’ll have to make yourself a sandwich, I’m afraid. Robin made one for me this morning but, since we had no idea you would be back, there isn’t enough for you as well.” She led the way into the kitchen and produced a plate carefully wrapped in greaseproof paper.

“Will you put the kettle on, please?” Jack obliged, before making his own sandwich. Jo managed to prepare the teapot and, when the kettle started to whistle, went to pick it up. Jack was quicker.

“I’ll do it. You sort out the cups and sit down.” Jo did as she was asked. She knew Jack just wanted to help but, for some reason, it irritated her. She said nothing, though, preferring to keep the peace.

When they had finished, Jo departed to rest in bed, as she normally did. Jack followed her upstairs and snuggled down next to her, his arm across her waist. He lay thinking for a while as he listened to Jo’s quiet breathing. He realised that she had become very independent during the weeks he had been away. Although she had said nothing, he had seen the look of irritation cross her face when he told her that he would make the tea. She had managed alone for the past week with only one good hand, and hadn’t come to any harm. His natural instinct was to try and protect her but, he realised, she didn’t want to be protected. She wanted to prove that she could cope with whatever challenges were put in her path. He made a mental note to try to think before his instinct made him do things for her. He then fell asleep, as he was still recovering from his own illness.

When Jo woke, Jack was still asleep. Robin and Daisy were due home in an hour, so she left him to sleep on, knowing there wouldn’t be any chance of resting once they saw him. She went into the kitchen and made a pot of tea, sitting down at the kitchen table with it. Just as she was finishing her first cupful, Jack came into the room, looking apologetic for having fallen asleep. Jo smiled up at him, before standing to fetch another cup. He sat down opposite her and accepted it with a smile. Ten minutes later, the front door opened and Robin and Daisy appeared. When they saw Jack they came running to greet him. He returned their hugs with a smile. Robin made a fresh pot of tea and they all sat down to enjoy it as a family.
Author:  brie [ Tue May 03, 2011 7:55 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 3/5/11
Lovely Vick, and glad to see that Jacks considering staying the nice guy that he was in Tirol and not turning into a dose-giving dictator :D, and independent Joey- Yaaaay
Author:  PaulineS [ Tue May 03, 2011 7:56 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 3/5/11
Thanks Vicky. Pleased it was only an illness that stopped Jack writing. Hope he learns that Jo is capable of dealing with life as a adult after all she has been through.
Author:  jayj [ Tue May 03, 2011 8:02 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 3/5/11
I think Jack having to go away could really be the saving of their marriage - or if not the saving (because that is a little melodramatic) then at least the making of it.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Tue May 03, 2011 3:09 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 3/5/11
Thanks Vick, really nice seeing Joey start to get her independance back.

And I refuse to wibble about it being November 1939 as I have myself messed up the timeline and had the triplets born Nov 1940 :-)

When it gets to Nov 1940 though I may cry if they are still like this :cry:

Thanks again :-) :-)
Author:  Minim [ Tue May 03, 2011 4:35 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 3/5/11
Awwwwww.

Thanks, Vick.
Author:  Abi [ Tue May 03, 2011 5:06 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 3/5/11
I'm glad Jack's thinking about Joey and able to see that she needs independence, even when he's around.

Thanks Vick!
Author:  emma t [ Tue May 03, 2011 6:25 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 3/5/11
This was sweet Vick, feel an awww coming on :)
Author:  roversgirl [ Tue May 03, 2011 8:08 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 3/5/11
Glad to see Joey becoming more independent and also their being a family. Thanks :-)
Author:  JS [ Wed May 04, 2011 7:20 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 3/5/11
Quote:
He made a mental note to try to think before his instinct made him do things for her.


Jack is just so smashing. Thanks Vick.
Author:  Vick [ Wed May 04, 2011 7:32 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 3/5/11
Thanks for all your comments. :D

It was early December, and Jo was drying the pots as Jack washed up after breakfast. Jo’s hand was healing well now, and it was no longer bandaged. It felt strange to her, but Jack assured her that it would improve, as she started to use it more. Jack had been back home for two weeks and was feeling much better than when he had arrived. He had spent quite a lot of time sleeping and Jo had been inclined to worry over him. He had managed to alleviate her worst fears, telling her it was the best thing for him. Just as they were finishing the washing up, they heard the rattle of the letterbox. Jo went to pick the mail up and sorted it on the kitchen table. She picked her letters up and went off to read them in the lounge. Jack collected his, but stayed to read them at the kitchen table. When he had finished he put the kettle on, and made a drink for them both. Taking the cups through, he went to sit beside Jo, who was reading a lengthy screed from an old school friend. She looked at Jack with a smile.

“Anything of interest?” he asked, as he passed her a cup.

“Thank you. Just a letter from Mary Burnett. Yours?”

“Nothing exciting, I’m afraid. I have to go and see the medical board next week, though. They’ll be sending me back before long.” Jo’s smile faded at this news. She had known it would happen but, she had secretly hoped he would be home for longer. Jack put his arm around her, pulling her in to him. She leaned her head on his shoulder.

“You knew it must come, Jo.”

“I know that, but it doesn’t make it any easier.”

“But if it’s to rid the world of something evil, surely it’s a small price to pay? You’re one of the lucky ones, Jo. You have family to support you. Many women watch their loved ones go, knowing they have no one else.” He cupped her face in his hands, looking into her eyes, full of unshed tears. “As hard as it is for you, it’s just as hard for me. I want to stay here and look after you but, I know I have to do what I can to help those who are fighting for us.” He kissed her gently, before drawing her back into his arms. They stayed like that for a long time, both reluctant to let go.

An unexpected knock at the door finally broke them apart. Jo slowly went to answer it. Whoever she had expected, it wasn’t the person standing there.

“Frieda!” she cried, before pulling her, quickly, into her arms. Frieda returned the hug. Both were so happy to see each other, they never gave a thought to the door which stood wide open, letting the cold rain in on them. Jack had heard Jo’s cry and came to see for himself. Frieda broke away from Jo to greet him, and he returned it, happily, before suggesting that they should close the door before anyone caught a chill. Taking Frieda’s coat from her, he sent them into the lounge, before going into the kitchen to make a fresh pot of tea. When it was ready he took it through, joining the two women, who were both rather tearful. While they were talking, Jo suddenly noticed a gleam of gold on her friend’s left hand. She wanted to know when it had happened and who the lucky man was. Frieda blushed, telling them that she had married another of the doctors from the Sonnalpe Sanatorium. Both Jo and Jack were overjoyed to hear this news and that he was also safe. Jo enquired why he hadn’t come with her, but Frieda informed them that he had had other things to do that morning. Eventually, Frieda noticed the time and reluctantly took her leave as she was expected elsewhere. Promising that she and her husband would come to dinner one night next week, she left them alone once more.
Author:  Alison H [ Wed May 04, 2011 7:42 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/5/11
Lovely to see Frieda turning up at a time when Jo really needs a friend.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed May 04, 2011 9:12 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/5/11
Really glad Frieda has turned up safe and sound (and Bruno)
Author:  emma t [ Wed May 04, 2011 12:44 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/5/11
Nice to see another friend re-appear just when Joey will need her :)Thanks, Vick.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Wed May 04, 2011 2:15 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/5/11
Thanks Vick, I really like Frieda, so glad that she is there.

Thank you again!
Author:  PaulineS [ Wed May 04, 2011 2:31 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/5/11
Good to see Frieda again, glad she is married to Bruno.
Thanks Vicky.
Author:  Spoot [ Wed May 04, 2011 2:57 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/5/11
PaulineS wrote:
Good to see Frieda again, glad she is married to Bruno.
Thanks Vicky.


Her husband was never actually named here. It seemed (to me) as if his name was purposefully left out...
Author:  chris84 [ Wed May 04, 2011 3:33 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/5/11
Thank you. Am glad that Friedas turned up safe. :D
Author:  Abi [ Wed May 04, 2011 7:39 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/5/11
Also glad to see Frieda; she'll be very good for Joey I'm sure.
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Wed May 04, 2011 7:55 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/5/11
It's so nice to see their relationship developing in different little ways. You've got me wibbling about Joey's busyness, or lack thereof, now though. Curses to you!

And, um, thankyou for the updates :D
Author:  Miss Di [ Thu May 05, 2011 1:09 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/5/11
Spoot wrote:
PaulineS wrote:
Good to see Frieda again, glad she is married to Bruno.
Thanks Vicky.


Her husband was never actually named here. It seemed (to me) as if his name was purposefully left out...


Hmmm exactly what I was wondering.

Thanks Vick, hope you will put us out of our missery and let us know who Frieda is married to soon!
Author:  roversgirl [ Thu May 05, 2011 4:38 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/5/11
Nice to see Frieda but am alsow ondering about her husband. Thanks :-)
Author:  Vick [ Thu May 05, 2011 7:37 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Updated 4/5/11
Oops, sorry :shock: I didn't intend to leave Frieda's husbands name out at all..... honest :lol: It is Bruno. I was a tad unsure about that whole bit, to be honest, so many thanks for all enjoying it. however, I seem to have done an EBD with her & not mentioned her again :roll:

Sorry, Ariel, I'm going to have to leave you wibbling on that situation.

*Passes more Lego, biscuits, wool and a cushion to Ariel*

Well, this is the last post. For now anyway. :wink: I have been writing more, but it's not been proofed as yet, and I really need to do some other things.

I'd just like to say big thank you to you all for reading and commenting. It's much appreciated and encouraged me to keep on writing.

Thanks also to PaulineS for answering my random TB-related questions.

A huge thank you and big hug to MaryR for being patient enough to proofread all of it and correct my many errors.

And finally, thanks to the Beautiful South for their large back catalogue. I think I know all the words to every song, now. :lol:

That's it. Oscar speech over....

Before Jo had chance to realise it, Jack was gone again. Robin and Daisy had spent Jack’s last day at Bonne Maison, allowing Jo to have some time alone with him. They missed him, but knew he was helping those fighting for freedom. Christmas was almost upon them, but Jo didn’t feel inclined to celebrate. Her husband was away at the front and she spent her time anxiously waiting for any news from him, hoping he was safe.

At her next appointment at the Sanatorium, Jem decided to have a word with her. He had noticed that she was looking a little thinner than normal. Careful questioning of Robin and Daisy had revealed that she wasn’t eating properly. When a nurse had pushed her wheelchair into his office, he came round the desk to sit with her.

“What’s bothering you, Jo?”

“Nothing.”

“I don’t believe that. You aren’t looking as well as normal and, I’m willing to bet that you aren’t eating properly.” Jo didn’t reply. She stared at the wall, unable to meet Jem’s steady gaze. He sighed, before continuing, “I can’t let you have any more time up, until you start to show more improvement. Worrying over Jack like this isn’t helping you to get better. He wouldn’t want you to be in a permanent state of anxiety. He wants you to keep on improving, just as much as I do. At the rate you’re going, you’ll end up back in here.” Jo just sat there, tears coursing down her face. She had tried to keep her worries to herself, hiding behind a façade of normality, but Jem had seen through it. He saw the girl he had known for so many years, determined to try to carry on as normal, whilst her imagination was running away with her. He let her cry on for a few minutes, knowing she had to have some release, though he was concerned for her. She had just had pneumothorax and was breathless enough, without the added stress of crying. As soon as he saw her starting to struggle, he spoke again.

“Jo. You need to stop crying, now.” Jo gulped, trying to catch her breath. Jem passed her some tissues. Eventually, she calmed down, though she was still struggling to breathe. He wondered whether he should keep her in the Sanatorium overnight, then decided against it. He knew she would fret even more if he did that, as she would think he was re-admitting her. She needed to be back at home where she was with people she loved. Robin and Daisy were only young, but they were Jo’s family, now, even more so with Jack away. He gathered his things together, and then turned back to her.

“Let’s get you back home, or Robin and Daisy will be worrying about you.” He pushed her out to his car and helped her in, before driving as quickly as he could back to Jo’s cottage. Helping her upstairs, he left her to undress and climb into bed while he had a word with the girls. When he went to check on Jo, just before he left, she was fast asleep, worn out by her emotions.

Jem came to check on Jo the next morning. She was still in bed when he arrived, Robin letting him in as she and Daisy left for school. He looked in on Jo and saw she was still sleeping. Going back downstairs, he went to sit in the lounge and wait. He was determined to see her eat a proper meal, so he had planned to take her to Bonne Maison for lunch. When he checked on her an hour later, she had just woken. She managed a faint smile at him, which he returned, before suggesting she got up and came down for some breakfast.

Jo appeared twenty minutes later and went into the kitchen to put the kettle on. Making a pot of tea, she poured one for Jem as well as herself. Jem thanked her and watched as she produced some cereal from a cupboard and ate a bowlful. Thankful that she had eaten something, Jem kept their conversation light and observed that she looked a little better than she had the previous day. He invited her to lunch, which Jo accepted. When she had woken during the night, she had done some serious thinking. She knew that Jem had been right when he said that Jack wouldn’t want her to make herself ill through worry. She had remembered her promise to him before he had first departed. Jem’s intervention had reminded her of that promise.

Lunch passed off, easily. Jo ate everything she was given and Jem was thankful to see it. He didn’t want to have to re-admit her, but, he knew that it would have been unavoidable if she had started to lose weight through worry and not eating. He hoped that she was back on the way to recovery once more, and that she would learn to cope with her worry over Jack. He knew she wouldn’t be able to completely escape it and she would always have it in the back of her mind, but if his intervention had done something to help her, he was happy.

When they had finished lunch, he drove Jo back to her cottage. They sat in silence for the most part, Jo watching the countryside passing her window. When he pulled up at the cottage, Jem spoke.

“Jo?”

“Mmm?”

“Don’t let yourself get into that cycle of worry, again. I know it must be hard to deal with, but, bottling your feelings up doesn’t help you. If you need to talk, do so. I don’t mind listening. In fact, I’d rather listen, than have to threaten you with being re-admitted.”

“I won’t.” Jo turned to face him, her eyes full of unshed tears. “I know I’m not the easiest of people to deal with, but I am who I am. I can’t help it. Sometimes, thoughts just carry me away and once it starts, I can’t stop it.”

“I know, and I don’t want you to try and be something you aren’t. I’ve known you for half your life, now, and I can tell when something isn’t right. You’re just as much my sister as you are Madge’s, and I worry about you as much as she does. Perhaps even more so, over the last couple of years.” Jo didn’t answer this, she just leaned over and hugged him, as well as she could in the confined space of the car. Jem returned it, confident that she had turned the final corner, now, and wouldn’t intentionally go down that path again.
Author:  Beecharmer [ Thu May 05, 2011 8:30 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Thank you Vick, have been really enjoying the regular updates, but can see this is a good place to leave this if you have to do so :-)

Thank you again, and good taste with then Beautiful South I think :-) even though I would guess you won't want to hear them again for a while!

:-)
Author:  Alison H [ Thu May 05, 2011 9:15 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Thanks Vick, this has been great.

I think I've got most of The Beautiful South's albums as well - I was so excited when they got to no 2 in 1989 with a song which included the word "Alison" (I seem to have been a rather self-obsessed kid, I'm afraid!!).

We hear so much about the San in the books but we don't really get to see it in action, and this ahs been fascinating.
Author:  Elbee [ Thu May 05, 2011 10:08 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
I have enjoyed reading this so much, and it has been very moving.

Thanks, Vick.
Author:  PaulineS [ Thu May 05, 2011 12:56 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Thanks Vicky. Pleased you are leaving it with Jo and Jack safe. Jem is being positive as well.

Have a good break and catch up on the rest of life.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Thu May 05, 2011 2:59 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Thanks, Vick - you have painted a very realistic picture of the ups and downs of recovery from TB before the advent of streptomycin treatment, especially for someone as highly strung as Joey. You've also shown us clearly how much longer full recovery could take the second time around. Here's hoping that she will be able to respond to Jem's very sound advice and avoid her imagination running away with her - it won't be easy, but the strength of the family support (Robin, Daisy, Madge and Jem) behind her in Jack's absence should help.

Have a good break - we'll hope to see more of this in due course.
Author:  ChubbyMonkey [ Thu May 05, 2011 4:08 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
I hope that you enjoy your break (I'll knit you something nice while I wibble!) but do come back soon with more. And I approve of your music choice! :D Listen to the happy ones though, please...

Thankyou!
Author:  Bryony [ Thu May 05, 2011 4:51 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Thank you so much Vick, this has been an amazing drabble to read and I hope you can start part III soon (RL allowing).

Can't be doing with the Beautiful South myself I'm afraid, but life would be v boring if we all liked the same things!
Author:  jayj [ Thu May 05, 2011 7:42 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Thanks Vick! This has been a really compelling story and given you've put Jo through a lot of difficult ordeals, it's good to see her still in one piece! Weebbling slightly about what you might do to her in part III, though....

*joins the anti-Beautiful South camp, though is potentially prepared to be more charitably disposed towards the Housemartins*
Author:  Abi [ Thu May 05, 2011 8:45 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Thanks Vick; this has been brilliant - fascinating and very informative too. Looking forward to the next bit!
Author:  Miss Di [ Fri May 06, 2011 1:53 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Thank you Vick, I have really enjoyed following this drabble (even though I don't know who Beautiful South are) and hope you can post more at some point.
Author:  JS [ Fri May 06, 2011 8:21 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Thanks Vick, have really enjoyed this; it's been my breakfast treat so I'll really miss it. Looking forward to more when you get the chance.
Author:  jmc [ Fri May 06, 2011 1:07 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Looking forward to Part III when you get the chance. Poor Jo has been through so much. Thanks Vick
Author:  roversgirl [ Fri May 06, 2011 8:22 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
This was lovely. Glad she's turned the corner and hope it continues in Part III. Looking forward to it when you have the time. Thanks :-)
Author:  Merlot [ Sat May 07, 2011 5:33 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Vicky Have so enjoyed this, am sorry its come to a temparary (i hope) halt, so looking forward to the next part :D
Author:  charli [ Sun May 08, 2011 1:07 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Thanks Vick, i have really enjoyed reading this. I too hope there is more in the future!
Author:  emma t [ Sun May 08, 2011 6:53 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Thanks, Vick, really loved this, and will miss having my catch ups after being at work for 4 days :) however, will look forward to the next part when RL allows you to write again!! Thanks again :)
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Tue May 10, 2011 11:15 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Jo's Biggest Challenge, Part II. Completed 5/5/11
Thanks Vick, have really enjoyed this. Have a nice break
All times are UTC
Powered by phpBB © 2000, 2002, 2005, 2007 phpBB Group
http://www.phpbb.com/