Ooooooh
Don't think I read this before - lovely beginning Liz
and I love the soggy elephant
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| The path of true love ... updated 22 June - page 23 http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=1685 |
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| Author: | LizB [ Fri Nov 24, 2006 2:02 pm ] |
| Post subject: | The path of true love ... updated 22 June - page 23 |
I am reposting this from the beginning as it all got lost in the hack and hopefully by the time I’ve caught up with where I’d got to, there’ll be lots more written. This is the final part in the trilogy, the other two parts of which can be found here: Time for a change part 1; part 2; part 3 Felix finds love part 1; part 2; part 3 Phoebe Cecilia Tinlow snuffled softly as she slept, and after checking she wasn’t too warm, Felicity sat back down on the sofa while Emilia sat on the quilted blanket on the floor trying to eat her newest toy. Felicity picked up a magazine and looked for a moment at the beautiful, delicate features, enhanced with careful make-up, with wisps of short red hair brushed forward over her cheekbones. “Let’s see what your Auntie is saying this time, shall we?” she asked her eldest daughter, and flicked open the magazine and began to read aloud. “Pippa will shortly be taking a well-earned break after her recent gruelling concert tour, but she managed to find time to talk to us and answer some of your questions. Pippa, you’ve been having hits in the top ten for several years now, including several at number one – what’s the secret of your success? I’m not sure there’s any big secret to it really. I’ve had to work hard at it like most people have to work hard at their jobs. I’m fortunate in that I love what I’m doing, I love to sing, and other people seem to like it and buy my records. Have you always wanted to be a singer? When I was really little I wanted to be a flautist, and I still play for my own amusement, but as I grew up I discovered I preferred to sing. How did your family feel about you becoming a singer? They’ve always been very encouraging and supportive. My mother can sing, and most of my brothers and sisters are musical. Ah yes, your brothers and sisters – you’re from a rather large family aren’t you? Well yes, my twin and I are the youngest of eleven children, plus we had our adopted brothers and sisters, and my parents had several wards who were all part of the family. And are you a close family? Oh yes, even though we’re grown up and all doing our own thing, we’re still family and we’ll never forget it. We still get together whenever we can. You even wrote a song didn’t you, when your sister had a baby? – that was you, Emilia” Felicity added as an aside before continuing to read. “Yes, it was a spur of the moment thing. I heard the news just before a concert and the words just came to me, so we went on stage and performed it. And it became a hit? It did, much to my surprise. I thought it would be a one-off at that concert and then forgotten. Your concert tour is finished now. What are you planning to do next? Well, first I’m going to give myself a holiday and rest for a while. Then I want to get on with writing my next album. Your last album you gave away the royalties to the National Polio Society. Why did you decide to do that? I suffered from Polio as a young child, I was fortunate because I had very good medical care and although I limped for several years, I eventually recovered completely and there were no long-term effects. But other people weren’t so lucky and I want to do what I can to help them. Completely changing the subject, we heard that you attended several family weddings this summer. Do you have any plans of your own to marry? No comment. But we would like our readers to note that Pippa blushed at this question. – She did, did she?” murmured Felicity to Emilia, who looked at her out of big blue eyes then returned her attention to the now-soggy elephant. |
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| Author: | Dawn [ Fri Nov 24, 2006 2:14 pm ] |
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Ooooooh Don't think I read this before - lovely beginning Liz and I love the soggy elephant
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Fri Nov 24, 2006 4:24 pm ] |
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I missed this before, too. Thanks, Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Fri Nov 24, 2006 5:56 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I remember and love this drabble but I have decided to read it again! Thank you for reposting it. |
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| Author: | KathrynW [ Fri Nov 24, 2006 11:09 pm ] |
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Yay! I always liked this drabble so it's fab to see it back again 
Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Caty [ Sat Nov 25, 2006 4:42 am ] |
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Hooray. Was hoping this would return at some point. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Róisín [ Sat Nov 25, 2006 10:15 am ] |
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Squee! This is back! Thank you Liz. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Sat Nov 25, 2006 11:23 am ] |
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Tanya put down the magazine and looked across the room. “Are you pleased with it?” Phil looked up at her PA and friend. “Yes, they didn’t change too much of what I actually said. They got in the bit about the National Polio society, which is important.” “And what’s this bit about you blushing?” She tapped the page with an orangey-red fingernail. “Well, yes, I could have done without that being included – my family are bound to pick up on that.” “So have Starzz magazine – I had a call from them asking about it this morning. Told them ‘no comment’ of course.” “Thanks.” “But off the record, how’s it going with you and Lance? Is it serious? Do I hear wedding bells?” Phil’s cheeks showed the shade that had drawn the comment from the magazine. “He’s not asked me.” “But if he did? You’d say ‘yes’ wouldn’t you?” “I … yes.” “So it’s just a matter of time then.” Anything further Tanya might have said was forgotten as the phone rang and she answered it professionally. “For you,” she held out the receiver, with her hand over the mouthpiece, “the man himself.” Then as Philippa took the call, she tactfully left the room. |
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| Author: | Róisín [ Sat Nov 25, 2006 11:36 am ] |
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Don't leave us there! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Sat Nov 25, 2006 1:55 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I hope that things work out between Phil and Lance. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Sat Nov 25, 2006 2:02 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz
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| Author: | Mia [ Sat Nov 25, 2006 9:59 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz, nice to re-read!
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| Author: | Ruth B [ Sat Nov 25, 2006 11:14 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz, great to see this back. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Sun Nov 26, 2006 1:24 pm ] |
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Geoff looked up with a smile as the nurse came into the room, “Hello Sandra,” he greeted her, “what can I do for you this time?” Sandra didn’t say anything for a moment, then to his surprise she blurted out “I was wondering if you’d like to come to see the new King Arthur film at the cinema with me next Friday?” “Friday, yes I think I’m free then. Who else is coming?” “Well, actually, I was thinking just you and me.” Her cheeks flushed slightly, and Geoff suddenly woke up to the fact he was being asked on a date. He opened his mouth to give a tactful refusal then thought ‘why not?’ “Ok, I’ll see you then.” He was rewarded with a brilliant smile. Once she had gone, Geoff sat back in his chair, absently twirling a pen between his fingers. He hadn’t felt inclined to date anybody since Angela, but he ought, really to get out there and socialise a bit more. Sandra was a nice girl, he would enjoy her company on Friday, and relax and see where things went. It was more than time he put Angela behind him and moved on, as he was sure she already had. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Sun Nov 26, 2006 2:13 pm ] |
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Hope the date goes well! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Sun Nov 26, 2006 5:05 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I wonder how the date will go. |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Mon Nov 27, 2006 3:25 am ] |
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Why don't I remember what happens next?
*looks hopeful* |
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| Author: | Caroline [ Mon Nov 27, 2006 11:26 am ] |
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Fabby to see this back - thank you so much for reposting. Can't wait to catch up with everything and start seeing some new stuff!!
Caroline |
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Nov 27, 2006 1:36 pm ] |
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Geoff did have a pleasant evening out with Sandra. They both enjoyed the film, and afterwards he took her to the Armiford Arms for a drink, and they stayed chatting until last orders. When, as he dropped her off at the nurses’ home, she thanked him for a lovely evening and suggested they get together again sometime he did not hesitate to agree. |
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| Author: | Helen P [ Mon Nov 27, 2006 1:41 pm ] |
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Thank you Liz, I remember this from before but am really enjoying the chance to read it again and be reminded of what is happening so far! |
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| Author: | Dawn [ Mon Nov 27, 2006 2:39 pm ] |
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This is now begining to ring faint bells of recollection - but I can't remmebr what happens 
so looking forward to lots more posts please Liz |
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| Author: | francesn [ Mon Nov 27, 2006 3:21 pm ] |
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I remember some of it, I think, but looking forward to seeing whether my recollections are correct! Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Chair [ Mon Nov 27, 2006 5:38 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I'm glad they had a nice evening. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Nov 27, 2006 5:43 pm ] |
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As the last update was quite short, here's another one for you, “What do you mean you split up with Geoff? When?” demanded Petra. “At his cousin’s wedding.” “But that was three months ago – why didn’t you say something?” “Well it’s been the summer holidays, I haven’t seen you.” “Oh come on, Angie, that won’t wash. There’s letters, phone calls.” “Ok, I just wanted to wait until I told you. I wasn’t ready for sympathy or questions or anything like that.” “And now?” “Now I’m completely over him.” Angela declared a little too fervently to be convincing. “So do you want to tell me what happened?” Angela shrugged, “Nothing much. We had a silly row.” “But it’s not the first time you’ve rowed with him.” “No, but it made me realise maybe we wanted different things, had different priorities and aims in life. And then he suggested we shouldn’t get married.” “He suggested that you shouldn’t get married?” Petra was incredulous. “I can’t believe he would have said that – he’s bonkers about you.” “He said it … and didn’t stop me walking away …” she sniffed, “and didn’t care that I danced with someone else the rest of the evening.” “Oh Angie, surely you didn’t try to make him jealous?” “What does it matter? It didn’t work. He obviously wasn’t that bothered about me.” “Don’t be silly. Anybody could see how besotted with you he was.” “‘Was’ being the operative word. He’s not now.” “But Angie…” “It’s better that it’s over now than that we had got married and realised how unsuited we are. Now I’m free to concentrate on my studies. Speaking of which I must start researching for this essay.” The dismissal of the subject was uttered with finality, and Petra knew her friend better than to persist. “I’ll leave you to it then – see you later.” She left the room and Angela picked up her book, and spent the rest of the afternoon staring blankly at the page, seeing nothing written there, her mind drifting back and replaying memories. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Tue Nov 28, 2006 1:38 pm ] |
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She had known Geoff Maynard all her life. Phil and Geoff had been just a year older than she was, Cecil three years older, and Marie Claire, slightly younger. The youngest of the Maynard boys was stubborn and, not having much chance to exert his will over his own siblings, had been only to happy to dominate Angela when he had the chance – or to try to dominate, she amended to herself, she hadn’t been willing to sit back and be told what to do. In her view, the year between them did not give him any superiority over her and many and varied had been the clashes between them, much to the amusement of their elders. Every time the families had got together he had always found something to argue with her about, and as they got older she had clashed with him more and more often. As the years passed they had learned to avoid each other. Spending any occasions when the families were together on opposite sides of the room, speaking only when they had to. When they had to speak, each came to the conversation ready for antagonism, and they were generally not disappointed, although as they had grown up their tussles became more verbal and didn’t descend to the physical fighting of their earlier years, although there had been many times she had itched to slap or shake him. By the time she was in her twenties they rarely saw each other. She was living in London, studying architecture, and he was working at the San in Switzerland. Or so she had thought. Then Petra, one of her housemates, had persuaded her to go along to a ‘heros’ fancy-dress party with her. She had dressed as Catwoman with a black skintight suit and a mask that completely covered her face. Shortly after arriving she had started chatting to Zorro and, before she realised it, the whole evening was spent in his company, chatting about books, music, politics, sport, laughing with him, wondering if he felt the same tingle she did when he passed her a drink and their fingers touched. He had asked her to dance and as he took her in his arms for a slow number her stomach had flipflopped. She had never had this kind of reaction to anybody. Let alone a complete stranger. At midnight, the music had stopped. He had taken her hand and led her out of the French windows into the quiet of the garden. “Okay everybody, time to unmask.” The order came through the speakers. Gazing intently into each other’s eyes, they had each reached for their own mask and removed it. It was difficult to tell who was the most shocked as they recognised each other, and then she had received an even greater shock as Geoff bent his head and kissed her, setting world spinning around her. He had taken her back to her home and they had sat and talked, between more kisses, into the early hours of the morning. Before he left he had kissed her again, leaving her with weak knees and a promise that he would call. And he had called as soon as he returned to Armishire. And the next night, and the next … |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Tue Nov 28, 2006 5:26 pm ] |
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I wonder what Miss Annersley would have thought of a "hero's" party at the CS - can't see her approving of anyone dressing as Catwoman! Thanks, Liz. |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Tue Nov 28, 2006 7:35 pm ] |
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Goodness, I though Catwoman was a bad guy rather than a superhero. *brainwashed by 1960s Batman episodes* Great way to meet, though. 
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| Author: | Chair [ Tue Nov 28, 2006 7:51 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. It was nice to see their 1st meeting. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Wed Nov 29, 2006 10:29 am ] |
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This is ace! Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | LizB [ Wed Nov 29, 2006 3:23 pm ] |
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The following weekend he had come down to stay in Philippa’s apartment again, taking Angela out for dinner, and ending the evening with several more of those searing kisses. Two weeks later, after taking her to see the cinema, she couldn’t remember what film it had been – neither of them had actually watched it – he had stopped in the park on the way home and proposed. She had accepted immediately. She had been amazingly happy. She had spent the next month walking on clouds. Then they had had their first argument and she had come back to earth with a bump. She had backed down in the end, even though she didn’t agree with him, and they had had an uneasy truce for the rest of the weekend. The following weekend they had gone to a party, and spent the evening dancing in each other’s arms, and everything had seemed right again. A few weeks later, they had had another argument, again over something trivial, and he had returned to Armishire before they had resolved it. He had phoned two days later and apologised, and the following weekend she had gone to meet him and flung herself into his arms the moment he got off the train. As soon as he kissed her, all other considerations went out of her mind, and everything was right again, it was only when he had gone back home that her reservations resurfaced. Geoff had been convinced that the arguments were the result of being apart and would all be resolved once they were married and together, and had started to ask her to set a date for the wedding. At first she was eager, but then she realised he was expecting her to move to Armishire when she married him, which would mean giving up her course and life in London. A streak of her old independence had reared up. Why should he have it all his way? And so she had started to stall. The weekends were spent in more and more arguments, as he wanted her to set a date, and she tried to evade the issue. Those magic moments in each other’s arms, became rarer and rarer as each obstinately refused to understand the others viewpoint. Then had come Kester and Juliette’s wedding, and everything had come to a head. Two seconds after she had walked away she regretted it, but she was too stubborn to go back. He could come after her for once. But he hadn’t. She had done her best to get a reaction from him. But he hadn’t seemed to care. Maybe he never really had. It was when she returned to London that evening, and saw his picture on her bedside cabinet she had really realised what she had lost. Clutching the photo to her, she had buried her face in her pillow and cried. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Wed Nov 29, 2006 5:48 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I wonder if they will sort things out. |
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| Author: | wheelchairprincess [ Wed Nov 29, 2006 6:57 pm ] |
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Liz this is wonderful. I've spent the last few days reading the other stories in this trilogy and they are all brilliant and kept me griped the whole time. I actually suspect that they won't get back together and hope that I'm right. Methinks those Maynard's are made of stronger stuff! |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 12:55 am ] |
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Liz, I have just stayed up far too late reading Time For A Change, and it's FABULOUS. Am very much looking forward to reading the next one tomorrow! |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 1:24 am ] |
| Post subject: | The path of true love |
Am really glad to see the sequel to this. I only read the whole thing a few weeks ago and loved it, so thanks |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 4:13 am ] |
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Poor Angela. 
Though of course she was right not to assume marriage would sweep away all the unresolved issues. Thank you, Liz.
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 10:12 am ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I hope they can sort through their problems. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 4:19 pm ] |
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Sitting there remembering, she found her eyes welling with tears again and dashed them away impatiently. What had got into her? She was over him now. It was all in the past; he could never have really cared about her – they had mistaken physical attraction for love and it was better they realised it now rather than later. It had been stupid to think they would ever have got on. To her annoyance she found her eyes wouldn’t stop overflowing. She hated crying, and had taught herself at an early age not to cry. She hadn’t cried about him since that one night of weakness when she got back to London, and she wouldn’t let him make her cry him now. There was no point wasting time with regrets. She blew her nose, wiped her eyes and, biting her lip hard, picked up her textbook again and started taking notes with grim determination. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 5:35 pm ] |
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Almost caught up now! Just finished Felix Finds Love. Who needs Mills and Boon when we have you, Liz? This is brilliant! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 8:08 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. *Clare sends lots of virtual hugs to Angela*. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 9:19 pm ] |
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poor Angela 
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| Author: | LizB [ Fri Dec 01, 2006 1:53 pm ] |
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Charles paced up and down impatiently as he waited for the train. He would do his duty, take the girl and her luggage home as he’d been asked to, then make some excuse about work and escape. The train pulled in and he watched as the passengers disembarked, looking for Felicity’s scrawny, mousy-haired friend. He looked in vain, there was nobody he recognised and he gave an irritated sigh. Women! Why couldn’t they manage to get the trains they were supposed to? He decided to go and check the time of the next train. “Charles?” a low, musical voice spoke his name and he spun round. Now she was right in front of him he recognised her, although there was nothing scrawny or mousy about the slender, graceful woman standing there. “Lucy?” He couldn’t quite keep the surprise out of his voice. “Welcome home.” “Thank you.” They looked rather awkwardly at each other. “Luggage.” Charles said, thankful of something vaguely intelligent to say. “Oh yes.” Lucy turned. “Just those.” She indicated a stack of cases and bags a little further along the platform “All that?” “I travel light.” She grinned at him. “Well let’s get these in the car and get you home then.” Charles picked a case up in each hand and stacked them onto a trolley. “I know Aunt Phoebe’s waiting eagerly for your arrival.” Lucy’s face became serious. “How is she?” she asked. “She never says anything to complain in her letters or on the phone.” “She’s as cheerful as ever,” answered Charles, “But you’ll see a change in her, naturally. She doesn’t get out much, but plenty of people go and visit her. Len and Reg are often round there, and Reg takes her out when she feels well enough.” “I should have come home sooner,” Lucy said, as Charles wheeled the laden trolley to the car and started loading the luggage into the boot. “I wanted to stay here after Dad’s funeral, but Mum said not to. She insisted that I should go back to dancing while I could.” “She’s very proud of you.” Charles said, holding the car door open for her. “I know. I always tried to live up to what she wanted.” “I’m sure you didn’t let her down. Now let’s get you home to her.” He was soon pulling up outside a small chalet and turned to smile at Lucy. “Go on – you go inside and say hello, I’ll bring your cases.” “Are you sure?” “She’s waiting for you – go on.” “Thanks.” Lucy gave him a radiant smile and a moment later he watched her slim figure run up the path. He waited a few minutes to give them a chance to say their hellos without an onlooker, then got out and started to unload the luggage and carry it up the path. Lucy came back to the door to help take it in. “Thanks so much Charles. Stop and have a coffee with us, won’t you?” “Thank you.” Charles answered bringing in the last case. “I can’t stop long, though.” He ended up staying for three hours, chatting with Lucy and Phoebe, before going back to his empty home. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Fri Dec 01, 2006 2:44 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. It was nice to see Charles and Lucy chatting. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Fri Dec 01, 2006 3:36 pm ] |
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LOVE these lovely boys! Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | LizB [ Sat Dec 02, 2006 11:49 am ] |
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Lucy waved goodbye as Charles drove off into the darkness and closed the door, then returned to join her mother in the sitting room. She settled back into a chair with a sigh. “It’s good to be home.” Phoebe smiled at her daughter. “I hope it won’t be too quiet for you here after the bright lights and big cities you’re used to.” Lucy smiled back. “Oh, I’ve seen some wonderful places, and enjoyed travelling, but as Dorothy says, ‘there’s no place like home’ and I’m glad to be back.” “It’s good to have you back too. Now, shall I go and rustle us up some supper while you go and start your mountain of unpacking?” “Oh the unpacking can wait; I’ll give you a hand with supper.” Lucy got to her feet and held out a hand to help as Phoebe struggled to hers, then keeping out of the way of the walking frame she led the way to the kitchen. She knew better than to offer to do the whole meal herself, but she covertly watched her mother as she went around the kitchen, noticing the winces of pain, and the difficulty she had in reaching for some items. Phoebe’s movements were slow, and it was some time before a simple supper was ready and they sat at the kitchen table to eat. “It was nice of Charles to go to meet you.” Phoebe commented innocently as they started to eat. “Yes, Felicity asked him to.” Lucy answered off-handedly. “By the way, she sends her love, and I’ve got some photos of your namesake to show you when I’ve unpacked.” The mention of Phoebe Cecilia drove other thoughts from her mother’s mind and the rest of the evening was spent discussing the various offspring of their friends. |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Sat Dec 02, 2006 3:23 pm ] |
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Sounds like a very nice evening.
Thank you, Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Sat Dec 02, 2006 4:52 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I'm glad that Lucy is there to help Phoebe. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Sat Dec 02, 2006 6:20 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz
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| Author: | LizB [ Sun Dec 03, 2006 10:52 am ] |
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The following morning Lucy was dismayed to see her mother was much worse than she had been the previous evening, and was confined to her wheelchair. Phoebe claimed she wasn’t in much pain, but Lucy could see the shadows under her eyes, and the involuntary wrinkles of her brow that told a different story. After lunch she managed to persuade Phoebe to lie down for a while, and was pleased to eventually see she had fallen asleep. Lucy returned to the sitting room after checking on Phoebe and paced restlessly up and down berating herself. She felt guilty for following her mother’s urgings and staying away for so long. Why hadn’t she come back sooner and seen for herself how she was, instead of accepting Phoebe’s word that she was alright? Why hadn’t anybody else told her the true state of affairs? When a knocking on the door turned out to be Charles with a small bag that had been left unnoticed when he unloaded the car the previous day, she asked him outright. “Why did nobody tell me?” she asked, dispensing with any other greeting. “Tell you what?” Charles was bewildered. “How ill Mum is. You might not have known – but Reg must have, and Auntie Joey and Uncle Jack. So why wasn’t I told?” Charles leant against the door frame. “She made everyone promise not to. Said she would tell you herself when the time was right. Mamma tried to convince her to let you know, but she wouldn’t have it. She said you deserved your youth while you could have it, and she wasn’t going to take it away from you.” “Someone still should have told me,” insisted Lucy angrily, “I would have come back like a shot.” “But that was why she didn’t want you told,” Charles said gently, “she knew you would want to come back and she didn’t want you to give up your dancing for her.” Lucy’s anger drained away, “I wouldn’t have cared about that. I should have been here with her.” Her eyes filled with tears. Charles gently put his hand on her shoulder, and steered her into the hallway, pushing the door shut behind him, then through to the sitting room, propelling her in the direction of a chair, where she sank down gratefully. As she searched for her handkerchief he produced his own and tucked it into her hand. “Here, use this.” He paused while she did so. “Aunt Phoebe was so proud of you and your career, she got so much enjoyment out of hearing about you, reading the reviews, even seeing you on television – she wouldn’t have wanted to miss that for the world. And, Reg or Papa will tell you, the days like today aren’t as common as the days like yesterday when she’s able to get about and do quite a lot. Why don’t you get Reg over when he and Len get back from their holiday, or if you can’t wait I’ll ask James to come and see you, and he can tell you everything.” “Thank you,” Lucy sniffed, “I’ll do that. And sorry for leaping on you like that when you arrived.” “Don’t worry about it.” He smiled at her, determined to cheer her up before he went, “I’m used to having irrational female questions thrown at me – Catherine would do it all the time when she was living with me.” “You must miss having her around.” “Well, she’s not that far away, but yes I do.” “Well, if you ever feel desperate for company, feel free to drop by here.” “Thank you, and if there’s ever anything I can do to help you, just give me a call.” He wondered, as he left a little while later, if he would regret making that offer. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Sun Dec 03, 2006 12:44 pm ] |
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Poor Phoebe and Lucy. |
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| Author: | Helen P [ Sun Dec 03, 2006 1:00 pm ] |
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Charles, what a solid lump of comfort you are!
Thank you Liz. |
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| Author: | wheelchairprincess [ Sun Dec 03, 2006 2:08 pm ] |
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I spy romance ahead! Yay! Thanks, Liz! |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Sun Dec 03, 2006 3:57 pm ] |
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Helen P wrote: Charles, what a solid lump of comfort you are!
The Maynards, Russells and Bettanys seem to BREED solid lumps of comfort! They are the most solidly comforting families I have ever encountered. And I would like to marry one if any are left at the end of your trilogy please Liz, see what you can do, eh?
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| Author: | Chair [ Sun Dec 03, 2006 8:33 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. It's good that Charles explained things to Lucy. |
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| Author: | Josie [ Sun Dec 03, 2006 11:54 pm ] |
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Fab to read this from the beginning again. So glad it's back. Thanks Liz.
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Dec 04, 2006 1:57 pm ] |
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“Oh, come on Pippa, you would if you really love me.” “How do you work that out? If you loved me, you wouldn’t pressure me.” “I’m not pressuring you – you want it too, you know you do. Your body doesn’t lie. You know you like it when I touch you here.” “Don’t!” “But you know you like it.” “I’m just not sure it’s right.” “Oh, come on. It’s not like you go to mass every week.” His tone changed. “I love you, I just want to show you how much and I thought you’d want to do the same. C’mon sugarlips.” He kissed her and started to slide his hands inside her clothes. For a moment she was passive, then she pulled away. “No.” “C’mon baby, don’t tease me. You know I won’t hurt you.” “I’m just not ready yet – I’m sorry Lance.” “Well, when will you be ready?” “I … I don’t know. It’ll be soon, I promise,” she finished desperately as he turned away. It had better be. I have needs you now. And I can’t wait forever. I’ve been very patient as it is.” “I know … just a little longer, I promise.” “Well, alright then.” He turned back grudgingly. “As long as it’s not too long. It’s not healthy you know for a man not to …” ”I’m sorry Lance.” “Hey, don’t cry sugarlips.” He held her in a tight embrace and she didn’t feel she could protest as his comforting stroking gradually moved to a more intimate fondling – she owed him that much for his patience at least. |
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| Author: | Helen P [ Mon Dec 04, 2006 2:33 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
What a git he is!! And 'sugarlips? ' *Shudders*
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| Author: | Fatima [ Mon Dec 04, 2006 3:03 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
He's gross! Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Mon Dec 04, 2006 5:27 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Don't do it Pippa! Never trust anyone who unironically uses the phrase "c'mon sugar lips". Don't fret though, I have faith in Liz's ability to find you someone lovely. Look what she did for every unattached member of your family so far...
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| Author: | Chair [ Mon Dec 04, 2006 5:35 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I'm sorry that Lance is so horrible. |
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| Author: | wheelchairprincess [ Mon Dec 04, 2006 7:36 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Ugh Lance is slimy and makes me want to take a shower. And he's not real either! Ick. This is really well written Liz. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Tue Dec 05, 2006 6:30 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Felicity looked up as Anthony came into the room. “Is she settled?” she asked. “I hope so,” he said, sitting down on the sofa. “I don’t think she’s disturbed Phoebe this time.” “Let’s hope not,” Felicity scooted over to lean against him and he put his arm around her. “You look tired, sweetheart.” “I am,” she admitted, “I’m hoping Emilia’s tooth will be through soon and we can have some more peaceful nights.” “Well, why don’t we get an early night – get the sleep while we can?” “It’s only eight thirty.” “So? Who says you can’t go to bed now if you’re tired.” “I suppose … “ the ring of the telephone interrupted her reply, and Anthony got up to answer it. “Wrong number again,” he said from the doorway a moment later. “Are you coming?” “That’s the third wrong number this evening.” Felicity said as she got to her feet. “And that’ll probably be the fourth.” She predicted as the phone started to ring again. She waited while Anthony gave a succinct answer to the caller and hung up. “There won’t be much sleep if that carries on all night.” Anthony lifted the receiver from its cradle and laid it on the table. “Problem solved. You go on upstairs, I’ll lock up.” ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ As the nine o’clock news came on the television, Phil suddenly decided that maybe Felicity could help. She couldn’t talk to her mother or Len or Con about it, but Felicity might understand, she picked up the phone and dialled. If nothing else, Felicity would listen while Phil talked and maybe help her get her thoughts straight. When she was still getting an engaged tone later that evening, Phil gave up. Maybe she was meant to come to the decision herself without getting anybody’s advice. It was too late to phone anybody else and, apart from Catherine, there was nobody else she felt she could confide in. With a sigh, she turned out the light and went to bed, although her thoughts kept her from sleeping for a long time. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Tue Dec 05, 2006 7:41 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks, Liz. I'm sorry that Phil wasn't able to get through to Felicity. |
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| Author: | Mia [ Tue Dec 05, 2006 9:18 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks Liz Am enjoying this.
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Tue Dec 05, 2006 10:34 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Poor Phil! Thanks Liz, this is great. |
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| Author: | wheelchairprincess [ Tue Dec 05, 2006 10:44 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Poor Phil and maybe i just have a suspicious mind but I was reading about all the wrong numbers thinking about what happened to Catherine/Cecil and thinking Felicity and (i forget his name) have found themselves a stalker.
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Wed Dec 06, 2006 11:41 am ] |
| Post subject: | The path of true love |
I was thinking that too. Hope I'm wrong and hope Phil works it out |
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| Author: | LizB [ Wed Dec 06, 2006 9:52 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Phil picked up the phone and began to dial. Geoff rushed downstairs, grabbed the bunch of flowers from the sink, and hurried out of the house. As he half-ran down the driveway, he didn’t hear the phone start to ring. Even if he had, he probably wouldn’t have stopped for it. He was due to pick up Sandra to go out for dinner and he was running late. He just about managed to get there on time, running his hand over his dishevelled hair as he waited for Sandra to answer the door. She was ready, exclaimed delightedly over the flowers and paused to put them in water, before he escorted her to a small restaurant in Armiford where he had booked a table. The conversation between them flowed, pausing only as they ate the delicious food, then once he had paid the bill, Geoff suggested a walk along by the river before they returned home. Sandra agreed with alacrity, and soon they were ambling contentedly along the river bank. “Do you know, I don’t have the faintest idea what any of them are.” Sandra said, gazing up at the stars. Geoff stopped and looked up. “See those three in a row there,” he pointed, “that’s Orien’s belt.” Then if you look just over there,” he moved his arm slightly, “Those stars there, that’s the great bear.” “The ones that look like a bent saucepan?” Geoff laughed. “Yes that’s the one.” “What else?” “Well, over there,” She turned to look where he was now pointing, “is the evening star, which isn’t really a star, it’s Venus.” Somehow they were now standing very close together. Sandra turned her head again, to look into Geoff’s face. Geoff looked down at her, then bent his head and gently brushed his lips against hers. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Wed Dec 06, 2006 10:11 pm ] |
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*sigh* Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Thu Dec 07, 2006 1:38 pm ] |
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Aw, lovely! Thank you, Liz. |
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| Author: | Miranda [ Thu Dec 07, 2006 1:49 pm ] |
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Awww *mushy* for Geoff Awww *sympathy* for Phil Awww *admiration* for Liz
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| Author: | Chair [ Thu Dec 07, 2006 3:52 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks, Liz. That was a lovely scene between Geoff and Sandra. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Fri Dec 08, 2006 8:53 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
By the following Saturday, Philippa had come to a decision on her own. She would do it. After all, she loved Lance didn’t she? He loved her and, as he had told her, it was a natural expression of that love. Ok, her parents wouldn’t approve, but as he had argued, she couldn’t live her life according to her parents’ old-fashioned standards. Lance had hinted that once she had shown how much she loved him he would ask her to marry him. Mamma and Papa need never know if they had pre-empted their vows. It couldn’t make any difference in the end really. She ignored the niggle in the back of her mind that suggested she wasn’t quite comfortable with the decision. What could be more natural as Lance had told her, than they express their love for each other in this way? And she couldn’t keep hurting him by refusing him, it wasn’t fair to encourage his kisses and lead him on like that and then say no. Especially when, as he had explained, it could make him ill. Once she had decided she knew she had to go through with it straight away. They had a date that evening, but she knew he would be home that afternoon, so she dressed carefully, nervously pulling on the lacy lingerie that had been sent as a gift but never worn, carefully applying her make up, then clutching a bottle of wine, got into a taxi to Lance’s flat. There was no answer at the door, but he had told he kept a spare key under the mat that she could use if she needed to, as she had on one or two previous occasions. She soon found it and let herself in. She hung up her coat and checked her appearance in the mirror. Lance liked her to wear low-cut tops, but she wasn’t sure she liked the amount that this one, one he had persuaded her to buy, showed and tugged uneasily at the neckline. Then reminding herself with a nervous smile that he would soon be seeing a whole lot more of her than that, she smoothed down her skirt and picked up the bottle of wine from where she’d set it on the hall table. |
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| Author: | Caroline [ Fri Dec 08, 2006 9:16 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
Oh poor, poor Phil! Caroline (who remembers what happens next!) |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Fri Dec 08, 2006 11:44 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
LizB wrote: And she couldn’t keep hurting him by refusing him, it wasn’t fair to encourage his kisses and lead him on like that and then say no. Especially when, as he had explained, it could make him ill.
BAH! *sharpens a suitable stick with which to poke Lance* Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | wheelchairprincess [ Fri Dec 08, 2006 2:24 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
I have a huge sense of impending doom about this. Don't do it Phil! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Fri Dec 08, 2006 2:35 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks, Liz. I have a bad feeling about this. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Fri Dec 08, 2006 5:30 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
What a horrible thing for Lance to do. Poor Phil. |
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| Author: | francesn [ Fri Dec 08, 2006 8:08 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
I remember this bit too... *waits in readiness* Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Sat Dec 09, 2006 3:27 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
'make him ill' forsooth! I'd make him considerably more than ill! "Dead" has a nice ring to it.... Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sat Dec 09, 2006 8:19 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
I remember all this - nasty piece of **** Lance. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Sat Dec 09, 2006 5:42 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thank you to those of you who remember this, but didn't give it away Philippa opened the door to the living room and froze. Time seemed to stand still as she took in the scene. The clothes strewn across the floor, the gasps and moans of pleasure, the naked bodies writhing together on the leather couch. Neither Lance nor Tanya noticed her as she suddenly found the ability to move again and softly closed the door, grabbing her coat and running from the flat. How far she ran for she didn’t know. Eventually a stitch in her side forced her to slow to a walk and then stop, gasping for breath. Looking around her she saw a small park nearby and she went and found a secluded bench where she went and sat, staring blindly at the bushes opposite her. As twilight fell she suddenly remembered she was supposed to be having a date with Lance that evening. Was he still expecting her? Should she go to the restaurant and confront him? What if she went and he didn’t turn up? Well that would answer all her questions anyway. She looked at her watch and realised she didn’t have time to go home and change if she was going to go. She made her decision and pulled out her compact, wiped away the streaks of make up, reapplied her lipstick and went to find a taxi. |
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| Author: | bethany [ Sat Dec 09, 2006 6:27 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Poor Philippa I remembered what happened from before, but was hoping I was wrong.
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Sat Dec 09, 2006 6:44 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Oh, yes, I remember this. Not only Lance the Compleat Scumbag but the backstabbing best friend.... *pokes the pair of them with ice-cold poking sticks* Poor Philippa -- but thank goodness she caught them now rather than later. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sat Dec 09, 2006 10:37 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Unable to type my opinion of Lance and Tanya. 
Poor Philippa. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | francesn [ Sat Dec 09, 2006 11:21 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Grrr and there I was hoping Liz had edited it a little. Please make Phillipa happy again... |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Sat Dec 09, 2006 11:24 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
I didn't know that was coming, but sort of guessed it might be. Not with her best friend though! Dastardly! Can I have one of your ice cold poking sticks, Mary? Although I think even that might be too good for them... Thanks Liz! Make Phil happy! I'm trusting you! |
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| Author: | LizB [ Sun Dec 10, 2006 10:28 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
Lance was at the restaurant before she was and gave her his usual charming smile when she arrived. They were shown to a table in a secluded corner and he scooted his chair closer to her as they sat down. “You look really hot tonight, babe.” He said, his eyes glued to her neckline. Phil opened her mouth to protest, but the waitress arrived to tell them the specials so she closed it again, deciding to wait until later, when they wouldn’t keep being disturbed. She concentrated on her menu, despite her lack of appetite, trying to decide what to have. Lance glanced at his menu, then returned his gaze to her cleavage, and rested his hand on her knee. Phil took his hand in hers and carefully removed it, glad for the interruption of the waitress again before he could protest. They ordered their food, which arrived in due course, and Lance poured out the wine. “Here you go hotlips,” he said, passing her a glass and taking a swig from his. “Something to help you relax a little. You seem a little tense tonight.” “Do I?” “Mmmmm. Not nervous are you?” His hand was on her knee again, briefly, then started creeping up her thigh. “Why would I be nervous?” “Well, what you’re wearing is promising things I hope you’re going to deliver, babe, ‘cos they are making me want you so much.” He took the hand Phil was using to stop his from creeping any further up his leg and held it to his groin. “You see how excited you make me sugar. Don’t be shy,” he laughed as Phil snatched her hand away, “you know you’re panting for me too. Why deny it any longer?” He inched his chair closer and pressed a sloppy kiss against her ear, putting his hand back on her thigh “We could skip dessert and go somewhere quiet, just the two of us.” he leered suggestively, his hands wandering again. Phil wondered what had happened to the Lance she had met, the one who had swept her off her feet with his declarations of adoration, who had seemed so gentle and caring. The one who had assured her he loved her and would do anything for her. How had she not realised that it was a mask and this was the real Lance she was seeing now. She shuddered inwardly at the thought of what might have happened if Tanya hadn’t been at the flat when she’d turned up that afternoon. It would not have been a sharing of love and commitment. It would not be anything special. When had his gentle caresses turned into this sweaty pawing? It had happened so gradually she had hardly noticed, had felt silly objecting as he pushed her barriers a little further each time. The discomfort she felt was not because being touched was new to her as Lance had explained. It was because deep down she didn’t want to take these steps with him. How could she have thought she was in love with him? How could she have considered … |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sun Dec 10, 2006 11:19 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
Smarmy piece of s*** Oh, just remembered what happens next!
Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Sun Dec 10, 2006 1:07 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
What a complete jerk Lance is. A really nasty piece of work. I hope Phil gives him what he deserves and not what he wants! |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Sun Dec 10, 2006 2:07 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Argh, now he's calling her Hotlips! Too much! Run, Phil! Or, you could throw your glass of wine in his face... |
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| Author: | Chair [ Sun Dec 10, 2006 8:13 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks, Liz. I don't actually remember what happens next. I hope that Phil will take her revenge. |
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Mon Dec 11, 2006 1:06 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thank goodness she's found him out in time - repellant individual that he is.... |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Mon Dec 11, 2006 4:45 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
He's completely obnoxious and I hope Pippa tells him so now, preferably nice and loudly so that everyone hears. She deserves so much better. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Dec 11, 2006 8:26 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
She pulled away from the kisses he was pressing on her neck, and removed one of his hands from under her skirt and the other from her bra strap. “Hey, Pippa babe, what’s the matter – there’s nobody near to see what we’re doing.” “I know about Tanya.” “What do you mean? What about Tanya?” “I know that you’ve been cheating on me with her.” “I haven’t.” “I saw you. This afternoon in your flat.” “It wasn’t what you think it was.” “Lance, it was exactly what I think it was. You and she were … were …” she stopped, hating the sound of tears in her voice. “Well you didn’t expect me to just wait around for you to stop playing the tease did you? C’mon Pippa, baby, be realistic. I’m a man with a man’s needs and if you weren’t going to do anything about them then I needed to get it somewhere else.” “But you said you would wait.” “And I did wait, I was very patient with you. But when you kept getting me all worked up and hot for you, then leaving me hanging I had to turn elsewhere.” “How could you do that to me? You said you loved me.” “I did it for you – you wanted me to wait, and it was so hard when I wanted you so much, the only way I could keep being patient with you was by relieving my frustration with Tanya. I would have finished with her as soon as you said yes, baby. You know you’re the only one I want.” “How can I know that after what I saw this afternoon?” “Because I was only ever thinking of you baby. The whole time I was with her I was thinking of you.” He reached out and pulled her towards him. “Come here and see how much I want you.” He pulled her closer, ignoring her resistance. “C’mon let me get you another drink and then I’ll make you forget all about Tanya. You and me babe, that’s all I’ve ever wanted.” |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Mon Dec 11, 2006 10:30 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
What a nasty rat! |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Dec 11, 2006 11:36 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Evil git! |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Tue Dec 12, 2006 4:53 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
He's just so horrible! Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Tue Dec 12, 2006 6:19 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
So he cheats on her with her best friend, and it's HER fault?!! What a %^$#@*&! |
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| Author: | wheelchairprincess [ Tue Dec 12, 2006 11:28 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
what a piece of *&^% ditch him Phil but that said I am enjoying this. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Tue Dec 12, 2006 1:38 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
“No!” Phil pushed away and stood up. “Don’t make a fuss, sugar.” He grabbed her wrist and pulled her back down into her seat. Phil had a horror of making a scene and, aware of the waitress glancing their way, kept her voice down as she protested. “Lance, I don’t want to ...” “Course you do baby, you’re just confused. Why else would you have come to see me this afternoon if you didn’t want to?” she remained silent; things had seemed so different only a few hours ago. “We could be so good together, babe. You know we could. Don’t let a little thing like this afternoon come between us.” He tried to press a kiss on her lips, but she turned her head away. He grabbed her chin and pulled her back to face him. “Don’t keep teasing me, baby.” “I’m not. Lance, you’re hurting me.” “I’m sorry, sugar, I didn’t mean to hurt you. I just want you so badly it hurts that you won’t let me show you how much.” “But how can that show you love me if you and Tanya …” “I told you that was nothing Pippa. I only did it because I want you so much and couldn’t have you – can’t you understand that. C’mon, come home with me and let me show you and everything will be alright.” “Lance, I can’t. I don’t want to.” “What do you mean you don’t want to? You owe me.” “I what?” “You think I’m going to keep taking you out places and buying dinner for nothing in return?” Phil could hardly believe what he was saying. “That doesn’t mean I owe you anything!” “You’ve led me on all these months, teasing me, promising me and now you won’t deliver! You … oh!” |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Tue Dec 12, 2006 1:42 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
He is so nasty. Poor Phil. What an awful situation to be in. |
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| Author: | Ruth B [ Tue Dec 12, 2006 2:17 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Nasty Lance! But sniggers cos I can remember what happens next. |
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| Author: | wheelchairprincess [ Tue Dec 12, 2006 3:35 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Lance makes me mad. What does happen next? I am very curious especially by all the comments from those who do know! |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Dec 12, 2006 9:06 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Ratbag! Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Josie [ Tue Dec 12, 2006 9:15 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Urgh - had forgotton what a slimeball Lance is.
Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Tue Dec 12, 2006 9:27 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
LizB wrote: “You’ve led me on all these months, teasing me, promising me and now you won’t deliver! You … oh!”
*hoping that Phil may have kneed him somewhere painful* |
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| Author: | Chair [ Tue Dec 12, 2006 10:47 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks, Liz. I hope that Phil will get her revenge. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Wed Dec 13, 2006 2:38 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
“Oooops!” Neither of them had noticed the waitress heading their way until she tripped and upended the jug of iced water into Lance’s lap. “I’m so sorry sir.” She apologised as she regained her balance and put the empty jug on the table. “Oh, you’re soaked. There’s a hand dryer in the gents, why don’t you …” “You careless girl!” Lance angrily got to his feet and headed to the back of the restaurant. The waitress waited until he had gone through the door then turned to Philippa. “If I’m interfering, you can tell me to get lost and I will, but I got the impression you didn’t want his attentions.” “I … he … thank you.” Phil answered. “I suggest you get away before he returns. There’s a taxi outside if you want it.” Phil got to her feet and found she was shaking. “Here.” The waitress put her arm around her shoulders and guided her along to the door, then paused a moment. “Does he know where you live?” Phil nodded. “If I were you I wouldn't go back there straight away then. Have you got a friend you can go to?” Phil thought a moment. Before today she would have instantly said Tanya, but now she couldn’t face seeing her. The waitress saw her hesitation and fished in her pocket. “Here.” She handed a key to Phil. “This is for my place. Let yourself in and make yourself a coffee or something. I’ll be finished here in a couple of hours. You’ll be safe there until then.” “Are you sure?” asked Phil. “You don’t know me.” “I’m Gini.” She pushed Phil towards the taxi. “Philippa.” “There, see, now we know each other.” By now she was closing the door of the taxi and giving an address to the driver. “I’ll see you soon, Philippa.” The taxi pulled off and Gini returned to the restaurant to mop up the water from the floor. |
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| Author: | Caroline [ Wed Dec 13, 2006 3:55 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Ahhh - I remember Gini! She's one with the interesting.... No, I won't spoil it for anyone. Bless her for interfering and helping Phil to safety. BTW, considering Phil is a top pop star, shouldn't more people recognise her? Or am I missing something. Thanks for posting this again, I'm really enjoying it. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Wed Dec 13, 2006 5:49 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks, Liz. I'm glad that Gini was so kind to Phil. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Wed Dec 13, 2006 7:18 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thank goodness someone was there to help her. Thanks, Liz. |
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| Author: | francesn [ Wed Dec 13, 2006 7:53 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
*also remembers Gini* Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Wed Dec 13, 2006 11:20 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | KathrynW [ Thu Dec 14, 2006 12:29 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks Liz, I remember this well from last time round but it's great to catch up with it all again! |
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| Author: | LizB [ Thu Dec 14, 2006 1:27 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Having paid the taxi driver, Phil let herself through the strange door and went up the stairs immediately in front of her. She found herself in a small flat, and half-sat, half-collapsed, mentally and emotionally drained, on the sofa. She was still sitting there when Gini returned home nearly two hours later. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Thu Dec 14, 2006 3:49 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Good for Gini! Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Dec 14, 2006 8:06 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Lovely Gini - Phil needs her. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | wheelchairprincess [ Thu Dec 14, 2006 11:46 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
This is really great but I don't know what's more intriguing, the cliffs in the story or the not giving the game away comments from those who read this previously.
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| Author: | LizB [ Tue Dec 19, 2006 2:06 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Caroline wrote: BTW, considering Phil is a top pop star, shouldn't more people recognise her? Or am I missing something.
In her professional capacity she'd be wearing a lot of make-up - it's early 80s, so think New Romantics - and there weren't all the magazines publishing photos of stars going about their everyday life that there are today- so I figure most people wouldn't recognise her straight off, and she's generally able to go around without being mobbed. “Philippa?” Gini gently touched Phil’s shoulder, drawing her out of her thoughts and back to her surroundings. “Are you ok?” “Yes, thanks.” The polite reply came automatically, then Phil continued. “Thanks for your help earlier. He didn’t cause you any trouble after I’d gone did he?” “Oh, he was obviously angry that you’d gone, but didn’t suspect I had anything to do with it. Apart from asking me which way you went – I just said you’d got into a taxi and it had driven off – he paid and stormed out.” “Thanks. And thank you for throwing the water over him.” For the first time in hours a real, if fleeting, smile touched Phil’s face as she recalled Lance’s expression. “Well, you looked like you needed a bit of help.” Gini smiled. “Now, I’ve a spare bed if you’d like to stay the night.” “I don’t want to put you to any more bother …” “No bother at all – it’s already made up.” “If you’re sure?” “I’m sure – you don’t look like you’re in a fit state to be on your own. Hey, it’s ok,” she soothed, as Phil burst into tears, touched by this stranger’s kindness. Gini passed over a box of tissues, and left her to herself, returning a few minutes later with a couple of steaming mugs, “Here you go,” she handed one over to her now-composed visitor and sat down. “Sorry,” Phil apologised, tucking a damp tissue into her pocket. “No need to apologise,” Gini told her. “Now, do I have to call you Philippa the whole time, or do you shorten it? Did I hear you called Pippa earlier?” Philippa nodded, “Yes, but my family and friends generally call me Phil.” It suddenly occurred to her that Lance had never called her by anything other than her professional name. Had he ever seen her as anything other than Pippa the pop star? She filed the question away to be considered at a later date, and turned her attention back to Gini. “What about you – is Gini short for something?” “Virginia actually. But I hate being called by my full name, and don’t like ‘Virgy’ either.” “Gini is nice,” Phil smiled, “and it’s unusual.” Mamma would love it, she thought to herself, although now she had declared she was retiring and had written her last book, it wouldn’t be any use to her. “Thanks. Anyway, let me show you around – not that there’s much to see.” |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Tue Dec 19, 2006 2:10 pm ] |
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Quote: Had he ever seen her as anything other than Pippa the pop star?
I think probably not. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Tue Dec 19, 2006 3:23 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Tue Dec 19, 2006 6:10 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I hope that Gini will be able to help her. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Dec 19, 2006 7:59 pm ] |
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Gini is so lovely |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Tue Dec 19, 2006 8:38 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Wed Dec 20, 2006 9:01 am ] |
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“And here’s the spare room. Not very big, but the bed’s comfy enough.” Gini opened the door and switched on the light. Like the rest of the flat it was tiny, and furnished sparsely, but with good-quality furniture, and scrupulously clean. Gini cross to the chest of drawers and pulled open the top one. “Here you go,” she said pulling out a t-shirt, “this is an old one of my brother’s, but if you don’t mind that you can wear it to sleep in. I’d lend you something of mine, but my spare pyjamas are still in the wash.” “This will do fine,” Phil answered, accepting the offer with a smile. “You’ve done more than enough just by offering me a bed.” “Well, us girls must stick together.” Gini replied. “I’ll just have a quick wash and then the bathroom is all yours.” “Thanks again.” “No problem. See you in the morning.” “G’night” |
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| Author: | Caroline [ Wed Dec 20, 2006 9:06 am ] |
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Thanks, Liz - and thanks for the explanation. I hadn't thought of this being the 1980s - I guess the odd cover of Smash Hits and appearances on Top of the Pops would be about all the exposure Pippa would get, other than to her biggest fans. No tabloid / celebrity / Heat magazine culture back then! More please! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Wed Dec 20, 2006 5:57 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Wed Dec 20, 2006 7:58 pm ] |
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Thanks for the update, Liz. I'm glad she had someone like Gini to help her out. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Wed Dec 20, 2006 10:40 pm ] |
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LizB wrote: “Here you go,” she said pulling out a t-shirt, “this is an old one of my brother’s, but if you don’t mind that you can wear it to sleep in.
Her brother? Reeeeeeaally?? Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | LizB [ Thu Dec 21, 2006 12:37 pm ] |
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Lizzie wrote: Her brother? Reeeeeeaally??
Yep, reeeeeeaally - want to meet him?
Clad in the t-shirt, which came nearly to her knees, Phil left the bathroom, opened the door to the spare bedroom and flicked the light switch. There was a ‘ping’ as the light bulb flashed briefly then died. Phil shrugged to herself, and waited a moment for her eyes to become used to the darkness then made her way to the bed. She lay awake for a while before dropping off drifting in and out of an uneasy sleep, her dreams or thoughts tangling the image of Lance and Tanya, with the feel of his hand moving insistently up her leg. Semi-awake she suddenly felt the covers lift and the bed dipped as someone climbed in next to her. Philippa gave a yelp of shock and kicked out, hard. The body next to her froze in shock for a moment as her presence was painfully registered, then bounded out of bed. “What the …?” Philippa sat up, “I might ask you the same thing.” she said, managing to keep her voice steady, her eyes, accustomed to the darkness, picking out the tall male figure. She heard him sigh. “I suppose you’re one of Gini’s friends. I did say I might turn up some time this week, instead of next, but she must have forgotten. She didn’t mention she would be having someone to stay.” “Should she have?” Phil’s voice was haughty. Who did he think he was, waking her up and questioning her? He hadn’t even said his name. His eyes had obviously adjusted to the dimness, because he grabbed her arm, not roughly, with unerring accuracy. “Come out into the light where I can see you if we’re going to have a conversation.” He tugged gently. Phil, decided that resistance would probably only end up with her looking undignified, so climbed out of bed, pulling the t-shirt down as far as it would go. “You needn’t manhandle me!” she objected. She had had enough of being pawed by men for one day. For one lifetime. He let go at once. “Sorry,” he muttered as he led the way into the sitting room, turning on the light as he did so. “So you should be!” she fired back, no longer scared, but on her mettle now. “I still don’t have a clue who you are or why you woke me up and hauled me out of my nice comfortable bed!” “I’m Peter.” She looked at him blankly. “Gini’s brother.” |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Thu Dec 21, 2006 12:41 pm ] |
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Let's hope that Peter is much nicer than Lance! Thank you, Liz. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Thu Dec 21, 2006 1:19 pm ] |
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I also hope Peter is nicer than Lance - but that wouldn't be hard! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Thu Dec 21, 2006 3:44 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I hope that Peter and Phil can sort things out. |
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| Author: | wheelchairprincess [ Thu Dec 21, 2006 3:46 pm ] |
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I think I'm going to like this brother! |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Thu Dec 21, 2006 5:40 pm ] |
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Yaaaay!! Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | francesn [ Thu Dec 21, 2006 9:22 pm ] |
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Huzzah! Thank you, Liz |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Dec 21, 2006 10:20 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz - not surprised Philippa was surprised.
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Fri Dec 22, 2006 2:01 am ] |
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I think I'd react a little more violently when awakened that way! Good excuse though, given it's his own bed. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Fri Dec 22, 2006 1:48 pm ] |
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Peter had had a long flight, followed by a convoluted journey from the airport to avoid roadworks. He had a spare key to Gini’s and an open invitation to stay whenever he needed to. They had an agreement that if he would let her know when he might be likely to turn up, she would let him know if she anyone staying, although he had never known her to have a visitor even once over the last few years. Admittedly he had been a bit vague about when he was turning up this time, but it had never been a problem before. Gini was used to him suddenly appearing at breakfast. It occurred to him that the strange girl in his bed had not known who he was, had not known Gini had a brother called Peter. He looked at her suspiciously. “Well, that’s who I am. Who are you? And what are you doing here?” Phil glowered at him. “I would have thought it would be perfectly clear to anybody with even half a brain that what I am doing here is – or rather was, until I was so rudely disturbed – sleeping.” “Look, I’m sorry I disturbed you – I couldn’t see in there. The light isn’t working.” “The bulb went,” Phil deigned to inform him, “after Gini had gone to bed. I didn’t want to disturb her for another one, and it didn’t occur to me that it would be a problem.” A tiny part of her acknowledged he was just as surprised as she was, but she remained on the offensive. “Now, if you have quite finished questioning me, I would like to get back to sleep.” “Okay, I won’t keep you, I’d quite like to get some sleep myself.” he looked with disfavour at the sofa, guessing that was his only option and sighed. “Could I just get a blanket or something from the drawers in there?” “I’ll get them.” Phil left him and returned with a sheet and couple of blankets, which she deposited on the sofa, ignoring his outstretched hand. She left the room without another word, and he thought she had gone, but she reappeared again with a pillow. “Here you are.” she said, dropping that on top of the blankets. “Good night.” “Good night, whatever your name is.” She paused in the doorway and looked back. “Philippa.” “Good night, Philippa.” There was no reply. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Fri Dec 22, 2006 1:55 pm ] |
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I hope she's going to give him a bit more of a chance once she's had some sleep. Thank you Liz. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Fri Dec 22, 2006 4:44 pm ] |
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Perhaps things will look better after they've all had some sleep!
Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Sat Dec 23, 2006 1:55 am ] |
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Poor Philippa - all on edge because of Lance, and poor Peter, exhausted after his journey. No wonder they didn't exactly hit it off. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Sat Dec 23, 2006 11:38 am ] |
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A bit of an awkward situation. I hope things will be easier in daylight. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Sat Dec 23, 2006 5:23 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | LizB [ Tue Jan 02, 2007 8:49 am ] |
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Peter soon discovered his assessment of the sofa had not been wrong. Eventually, he abandoned his efforts to get comfortable enough to sleep and instead lay wondering about his sister’s houseguest. She spoke well, and was obviously from a good background. How had she met Gini? She can’t have known her long. He wondered how she had come to impose (as she must have done) on Gini. Gini was too soft hearted for her own good of course. Well, he would soon find out if this girl was scheming at something and put a stop to it. She had certainly been very angry, more angry than was warranted by his unexpected appearance, he thought, remembering the sparks flying from her eyes. He ruefully rubbed his bruised shin – and she had a fierce kick for such a small person. He wondered how old she was. Seventeen maybe? He turned over, and landed on the floor. Muttering something unintelligible, he got back onto the sofa and pulled the covers over him again. Why did manners say that a woman should have the bed? Admittedly she had been there first, but she wouldn’t have trouble with her lower legs sticking off the end of the sofa. She was so tiny she could probably stretch out on it without a problem. Discovering that his legs rested on the arm just where his bruise was he drew his knees up. And how, he asked himself again, did such a small female have such a painful kick with a bare foot. Maybe he should be glad it was only his shin she had attacked. Despite his tiredness and discomfort, his sense of humour got the better of him and he chuckled to himself in the darkness. Still smiling to himself, his last thought before he finally fell asleep was that that had been his t-shirt she was wearing. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Tue Jan 02, 2007 10:25 am ] |
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I can't wait for them to meet in the morning! Breakfast could be an interesting meal! |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Tue Jan 02, 2007 10:47 am ] |
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Yaaaay! It's back after a well-deserved Christmas break! Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Tue Jan 02, 2007 12:52 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I hope they can sort things out in the morning. |
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| Author: | wheelchairprincess [ Tue Jan 02, 2007 2:31 pm ] |
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Hope you had a good Christmas Liz and thank you for giving us some more of this! |
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| Author: | KathrynW [ Tue Jan 02, 2007 3:04 pm ] |
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Thank you Liz - I have spent the last hour or so happily engrossed in this universe
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Jan 02, 2007 5:30 pm ] |
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Of course Phil was not really reacting to him - he was just the last straw. Thanks Liz - can remember some of the bits to come but not all so hurry up and get there. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Tue Jan 02, 2007 8:24 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. Really enjoying this! |
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| Author: | LizB [ Wed Jan 03, 2007 8:32 am ] |
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Despite the lack of pillow because she’d had an unaccountable impulse to give hers to Gini’s brother, Phil pulled the covers over her and fell almost instantly into a deep, dreamless sleep. When she awoke it was daylight. Once she’d remembered where she was and why, she resisted the urge to pull the covers over her head and stay there forever, and got out of bed. Remembering the visitor who had arrived in the night, she dressed before she ventured out of the room. But the only other occupant of the flat was Gini, whom she found in the kitchen. “Morning, did you sleep well? Peter didn’t disturb you when he came in did he?” Gini didn’t wait for an answer “I didn’t realise he was coming or I’d have left him a note to say you were in the spare room. Sorry if he woke you.” “Oh, that’s ok,” answered Phil, not wanting to cause a fuss when Gini had been so kind and helpful. “I woke up, but went back to sleep again. I’ll just strip the bed for you and then I’ll be out of your way.” “There’s no hurry.” “No, honestly, you’ve gone too so much trouble for me already, I can’t put you out any more than I already have.” “Well have some breakfast at least.” Gini urged, pulling some toast out from under the grill and putting it on a plate. “Here you go.” She put the plate on the table and gestured to a chair. Phil decided it would be rude to argue, so thanked Gini, sat down and, to her surprise, managed to eat a couple of slices. By the time the two girls had eaten, stripped and re-made the bed, then sat and drunk cup of coffee, Phil recognised that as well as being rescued from Lance, she had found in Gini a friend for life. When she finally left Gini’s flat it was with a promise that she would call soon. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Wed Jan 03, 2007 8:36 am ] |
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What a shame Peter had already gone! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Wed Jan 03, 2007 5:25 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I'm glad that they are getting on well. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Wed Jan 03, 2007 5:31 pm ] |
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Gini seems like a lovely person. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Wed Jan 03, 2007 5:36 pm ] |
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Are there any single Maynards/Bettanys/Russells for Gini I wonder... Thanks Liz!! |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Wed Jan 03, 2007 5:44 pm ] |
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Nice person, Gini.
Thank you, Liz. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Wed Jan 03, 2007 6:43 pm ] |
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Good that Phil has a friend - especially as, as well as a boyfriend, she lost a friend last night. Looking forward to seeing when Phil confronts the pair of them. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Wed Jan 03, 2007 10:06 pm ] |
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Thank you Liz |
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| Author: | LizB [ Thu Jan 04, 2007 12:12 pm ] |
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A brief interlude ... “Hello Lucy.” Lost in a dream world as she wandered among the pines, Lucy started as Charles spoke. “Sorry, didn’t mean to make you jump, are you ok?” “Yes, fine thanks.” “Good.” He smiled at her. Lucy felt her heart beat faster, but told herself it was just because of the shock he’d given her a moment ago. He fell into step beside her. “Where are you headed for?” “Yesterday.” “Pardon?” “Just taking a walk down memory lane. We used to come and picnic here as children. And when we were older Fliss and Marjorie and I used to come here and talk when we wanted some privacy. Just over there,” she pointed, “Marjorie told us that she had decided to become a doctor. And just here.” she paused between two trees, “is where I told them I’d been accepted into ballet school, and the triumvirate had to be broken up.” she smiled at the memory. “I was worried how Fliss would take it – we’d always planned to go together, but by that time she knew she would never been good enough, but she didn’t begrudge it for me at all. She told me she’d come and see me perform, and she was sure I’d become a world-famous ballerina.” “And so you are.” “And so I was.” She gave a little sigh. He looked at her sharply. “You don’t regret it do you?” “Not a moment of it.” “Then why the sad sigh?” “Because I just don’t know what to do with my life now that’s over.” “What do you want to do? Teach?” “Oh no, I couldn’t teach. But I need something that won’t take me away from Mum. She’s been on her own for far too long. So I’ve got to stay here.” “Write your autobiography?” Her laugh rang out. “Nobody would be interested in that.” “Oh, you’d be surprised.” Charles answered. “But if that won’t do, then I’ll have to try to think of something else.” He proceeded to make various weird and wonderful suggestions as they continued their walk, and was pleased to see his efforts made her laugh again. With her worries about Phoebe, she had generally been serious whenever he had spoken with her since she had returned home, he realised. It was good to hear her laugh. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Thu Jan 04, 2007 12:35 pm ] |
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Ooh, I'd forgotten Charles and Lucy... Thanks Liz, keep it coming! |
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| Author: | Ruth B [ Thu Jan 04, 2007 12:35 pm ] |
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*Sigh* Lovely Charles and Lucy! |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Thu Jan 04, 2007 1:57 pm ] |
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Yes, I'd forgotten them, too. And will we hear about Mike and Laura? Please? *Bribes with Belgian chocolates* Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Thu Jan 04, 2007 4:17 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. It was nice to see Lucy taking a trip down memory lane. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Fri Jan 05, 2007 9:01 am ] |
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Philippa hunted through her bag, and eventually found the key and inserted it into the lock. She jumped when she heard a voice behind her. “Miss Maynard?” She turned around slowly. “Oh, hello Mrs Jefferson.” She smiled at her neighbour. “Miss Maynard, I’m glad I caught you. I thought you should know there was someone here last night, banging on your door and shouting. Making a terrible racket.” Philippa paled. “Don’t worry, my dear, he’s gone now. Mr Atkins threatened to call the police and he went, but I’m not sure he won’t come back again.” “Do you know who it was?” asked Philippa, although she was sure she already knew the answer. “Mr Atkins said it was the young man you’ve been seeing. My dear, I don’t want to interfere, but maybe you’ve been taken in by him, because the language he was using last night and the things he was saying was not the sort of thing a nice young girl like you should be listening to.” “Thank you Mrs Jefferson, you’re right. I was mistaken in him and I’m not going to be seeing him any more.” A kindly smile crossed Mrs Jefferson’s place. “I can’t say I’m sorry to hear it my dear. He never held doors or stood aside for anyone on the stairs you know. You can tell a lot about a young man by the way he treats other people. You remember that.” “Thank you, Mrs Jefferson, I will.” “Well if you need anything Miss Maynard, you just come and ask. Oh, and make sure you bolt your door tonight in case he comes back.” She gave Philippa a pat on her shoulder and retired back to her own apartment. |
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| Author: | Smile :) [ Fri Jan 05, 2007 9:26 am ] |
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Just finished reading this trilogy from start to here (obviously not all today). It's brilliant thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Fri Jan 05, 2007 10:01 am ] |
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What a friendly neighbour - poor Philippa, Lance obviously isn't going to go quietly! |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Fri Jan 05, 2007 10:49 am ] |
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At least Pippa has people looking out for her now. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Fri Jan 05, 2007 1:28 pm ] |
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Poor Phil. I'd be quite scared on my own in the flat if I knew Lance had been round trying to get back in. He's a nasty bit of work. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Fri Jan 05, 2007 2:41 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I'm glad that Phil wasn't there when Lance came round. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Fri Jan 05, 2007 7:45 pm ] |
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Hmmmm, so does Lance just hate the thought that he's been dumped? Is he after her money/fame etc? Or is there something more sinister going on? Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Becky [ Fri Jan 05, 2007 8:27 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz, really enjoying this |
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| Author: | Josie [ Sun Jan 07, 2007 10:32 pm ] |
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Ugh - Lance is a creep. It's probably his ego not accepting that he's been dumped! Love Lucy and Charles - Charles is just what she needs just now. Thanks Liz. Have loved catching up with all of this!
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Jan 08, 2007 1:43 pm ] |
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Philippa let herself into her apartment and closed the door behind her, making sure she double-locked and bolted it. Then she made her way to the bathroom, dropping her clothes on the floor and stood under a steaming hot shower for a while. Eventually, she came out and wrapped herself in a big fluffy towel. As she went through to the bedroom the phone rang. She stopped still and listened as the answerphone picked it up. “Pippa? Pippa, sugar, it’s Lance. Look, about last night, I never meant to scare you away. I know it’s a big decision for you. And I promise I’ll wait as long as you need babe. I really need to see you and talk to you. Just give me a call, sweetlips, and I’ll come straight over. Everything will be alright. You’re the only one for me, babe, you know that.” There was a click as the machine stopped recording. Pippa stayed there for a while as if in a trance, then moved slowly over to the machine and pressed the play button. “Pippa! How could you walk out on me like that? It was so humiliating! Did you think it was some sort of joke? You’re not going to get away with treating me that way!” Beep “Pippa! I don’t understand what was going through your head tonight. Call me back and we’ll talk about it.” Beep “Phil, it’s Fliss. Just calling to see if you’re free the weekend after next and fancy coming over for lunch. Geoff’s coming and I’m going to invite Kez and Juliet, so you can probably catch a lift with them if you want to. Anyway, give us a call and let us know. Bye.” Beep “Pippa! Pick up if you’re there. Pippa! Don’t ignore me now, after what you did. I know you’re there. Look, if you don’t pick up I’m going to come over there.” Beep “Pippa. Right I’m coming over and we’re going to sort this out.” Beep “Pippa, it’s Tanya, Lance phoned me. He’s really worried about you. Look, I know I’m probably the last person in the world that you want to talk to right now, but I never meant to hurt you, you know. Let me know you’re ok, at least.” Beep “Pippa, I’ve hardly slept all night. Look can’t we talk and sort things out. Come on sugarlips. You can’t hide away for ever.” Philippa switched off the machine as it started to play the final message. She stood there for a moment longer, then picked up the receiver and began to dial. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Mon Jan 08, 2007 1:46 pm ] |
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I'm not sure if I want Pippa to be calling Lance to give him a piece of her mind, or if I want her to completely ignore him! Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Mon Jan 08, 2007 2:43 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz! |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Mon Jan 08, 2007 4:02 pm ] |
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Ooh, it's so good! Who's she going to call? Please post again soon Liz, I'm seriously near the edge of my seat. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Jan 08, 2007 5:56 pm ] |
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Lizzie wrote: Who's she going to call?
Ghostbusters! 
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Jan 08, 2007 7:20 pm ] |
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I wouldn't want to speak to either of them - they deserve each other. Philippa call Fliss. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Mon Jan 08, 2007 9:31 pm ] |
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LizB wrote: Lizzie wrote: Who's she going to call? Ghostbusters! You have an answer for everything, don't you?
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| Author: | Chair [ Mon Jan 08, 2007 9:41 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I hope that Phil calls Fliss. |
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Mon Jan 08, 2007 10:34 pm ] |
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Sweetlips!!! Uurgh! Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | francesn [ Mon Jan 08, 2007 10:59 pm ] |
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*sniggers at the suggestion Phil might call Ghostbusters* What she really needs is to get AWAY from the creep. Preferably by him going and drowing himself or something... Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Alex [ Mon Jan 08, 2007 11:03 pm ] |
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Note to self: Never date a man who calls you anything with "lips" in it. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Tue Jan 09, 2007 1:39 pm ] |
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“Angela?” “Yes?” “Angela, it’s Philippa … Maynard” “Philippa, hi. How are you?” “I’m, well actually I’m phoning to ask you a favour?” “Sure, ask away,” “Look, I know it’s a bit of a cheek, but I’m kind of looking for a place to stay for a couple of nights and I wondered if …” “You want to come and crash here. Of course – I can’t offer you a bed, but the sofa’s not too bad.” “Are you sure?” “Of course. When do you think you’ll get here.” “Erm … probably in a couple of hours if that’s ok?” “Yes, that’s fine. I’ll be here.” “Thanks. I really appreciate.” “No problem. See you later then.” “Bye.” |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Tue Jan 09, 2007 3:50 pm ] |
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Alex wrote: Note to self: Never date a man who calls you anything with "lips" in it.
I think we would ALL do well to remember that simple rule. Thanks for the update, Liz, I suppose Angela's a good substitute for The Ghostbusters...
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| Author: | Fatima [ Tue Jan 09, 2007 4:48 pm ] |
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But what about Mike and Laura? Thanks Liz.
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Tue Jan 09, 2007 11:37 pm ] |
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Thank you Liz. |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Wed Jan 10, 2007 2:22 am ] |
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Good move. I'd almost forgotten about Angela and Geoff. 
Thank you, Liz.
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Wed Jan 10, 2007 10:50 am ] |
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Thanks, Liz! |
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| Author: | LizB [ Wed Jan 10, 2007 6:00 pm ] |
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Fatima wrote: But what about Mike and Laura
They're in Switzerland, so a bit far away to call for an emergency place for the night! But otherwise they are fine, and Laura's pregnancy is progressing nicely without any complications
“Come on in,” Angela welcomed her guest. “Let me take some of those bags for you.” She suited the action to the word and carried the bags through to her room. “Thanks. Sorry to dump myself on you like this. I didn’t know where to go and …” she trailed off. “Hey, no problem.” Angela took a quick look at the misery on Phil’s face and the shadows round her eyes, and made an accurate diagnosis. “Man trouble?” Phil nodded. Angela steered her over to the bed and sat her down. “Want to tell me about it?” Angela was righteously indignant when she heard about Lance’s behaviour. “What scum!” she exclaimed, “Oh if only I had 10 minutes alone with him and a pair of rusty scissors. I’d soon teach him a lesson!” Despite her misery, Phil giggled at Angela’s vehemence. “Remind me never to become your enemy.” Then she became more serious. “Thanks for helping me out Angela – I wasn’t sure if I should call you.” “Whyever not?” “Well, because of what happened with Geoff.” “Well if he had called I might not have felt inclined to help, but it’s not your fault that things went wrong between us.” Angela decided to steer away from the topic. “So you stayed at this waitress’s place last night?” “Yes, her name’s Gini. She was great – although I can’t say as much for her brother.” “Oh?” “Yes, obnoxious, bad-mannered idiot!” “Oh well, I don’t suppose even if you see Gini you need to see him again.” “I certainly hope not!” Phil decided she had enough problems to think about without having to worry about meeting him again and determined to put him completely out of her mind. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Wed Jan 10, 2007 6:45 pm ] |
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Nope, that won't work Phil.
Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Thu Jan 11, 2007 3:13 am ] |
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Appropriate sentiment about Lance, Angela. 
Not so sure about Gini's brother, though.... Thank you, Liz.
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| Author: | LizB [ Thu Jan 11, 2007 8:46 am ] |
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Phil may have put Peter firmly out of her mind, but the reverse was not the case. He told himself he was relieved that she had left Gini’s by the time he returned there that evening, and was grateful that he had a proper bed that night. At least he would get a decent night’s sleep. Or he would, if his thoughts didn’t keep wandering to the bed’s previous occupant. Gini was convinced that Philippa wasn’t a sponger or con artist, but Gini was gullible – an easy target for someone to take advantage of, and just far too trusting, taking in a girl she had only just met. He had told her as much, of course, and she had retorted that it was her life and her flat and she could invite whomever she wanted to stay. There was nothing much he could say to that, apart from hope that she didn’t get taken advantage of again. Of course it was just for Gini’s sake that he hoped this girl wasn’t a fake, he told himself when he heard the news that Gini intended to see her again. There was no reason to think he would see her again anyway. Once his bruise faded there would be nothing to remind him of her. Which was just the way he wanted it to be. Wasn’t it? |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Jan 11, 2007 2:30 pm ] |
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Methinks the man doth protest too much!
Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | KathrynW [ Thu Jan 11, 2007 2:42 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Chair [ Thu Jan 11, 2007 3:20 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I hope that Peter and Phil will meet again soon. I'm glad that Angela was happy to have Phil to stay. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Thu Jan 11, 2007 4:34 pm ] |
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Of COURSE you don't want to see her again, Peter. Of COURSE you don't want to see him again, Phil.
Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Thu Jan 11, 2007 5:05 pm ] |
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I had been wibbling that you planned to do awful things to Laura, Liz, so thanks for the reassurance! |
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| Author: | Kat [ Thu Jan 11, 2007 5:11 pm ] |
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I spent a very large part of yesterday evening and today reading from the very beginning of Time for a Change, right the way through to this, and I only have one thing to say... MORE!!!
(please, Liz?) |
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| Author: | LizB [ Fri Jan 12, 2007 8:56 am ] |
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Nothing to remind him of her, that is, except for the picture of in his mind that he couldn’t quite banish. An image of a delicately built, red-haired girl, with eyes that spat fire. He remembered the length of slender thigh unconsciously exposed as she raised her hands to run her fingers irritatedly through her hair. What would she would look like if her eyes were lit by a smile, or a different flame … He firmly quenched the thought. He must be tired if he was allowing himself to think of a woman’s attractions, let alone those of a girl whom he had met once, would never see again, and would believe about as far as he could throw her. Which probably was not a good comparative as he could probably throw her quite a way if he had to; there wasn’t much to her, and he found himself wondering what it would feel like to hold her slight weight in his arms. What on earth had come over him? He was sworn off women. With the exception of his sister they were nothing but trouble and could not be trusted. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Fri Jan 12, 2007 11:12 am ] |
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They're perfect for each other! Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Fri Jan 12, 2007 3:07 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I think that they need to be set up on a date! |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Fri Jan 12, 2007 3:35 pm ] |
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Peter and Phil, sitting in a tree, K.I.S.S.I.N.G... Thanks Liz! More soon please! |
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| Author: | Smile :) [ Fri Jan 12, 2007 4:49 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Kat [ Fri Jan 12, 2007 5:51 pm ] |
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*grinning* So, when are they getting engaged, Liz?
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| Author: | Lesley [ Fri Jan 12, 2007 7:59 pm ] |
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Awwww, he's got in bad!
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Jan 15, 2007 1:19 pm ] |
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Tanya almost dropped her mug of tea as Philippa breezed into her office on Tuesday morning, carefully dressed and made-up to create an air of confidence. “Pippa! I’ve been so worried about you – are you ok?” “I’m fine thank you Tanya. Now about the interview with Starzz. Confirm that for Friday morning will you. And can you call Oliver and make me an appointment with him sometime tomorrow.” “Pippa, about Lance …” “What about him?” Philippa was proud of how disinterested her tone was. “Well, about Saturday …” “Saturday?” she picked up the pile of post and leafed through it as she walked across the room. “Well, me and Lance …. you know.” Philippa looked up. “Tanya, what you choose to do in your own time is your business and no concern of mine.” She met her PA’s gaze coolly. “I shall be in my office. Please let me know when you’ve confirmed those meetings for me.” She opened the door, walked through, closed it behind her, then sat at her desk, to all intents and purposes absorbed in reading a long letter from a fan. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Mon Jan 15, 2007 2:00 pm ] |
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Way to go Pippa! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Mon Jan 15, 2007 5:35 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I think that Phil handled the situation the best way she could. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Jan 15, 2007 6:16 pm ] |
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Well done Phil. (Though personally I'd have liked to rip her face off! )
Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Mon Jan 15, 2007 6:45 pm ] |
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Nice one Phil! Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Smile :) [ Mon Jan 15, 2007 10:03 pm ] |
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Go Phil! Thank you Liz |
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| Author: | LizB [ Tue Jan 16, 2007 1:54 pm ] |
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By the end of the day, Philippa was exhausted. She had, however, managed to maintain a professional businesslike attitude when dealing with Tanya, ignoring any of her PA’s attempts at personal conversation, taking some satisfaction by the confusion she could see that was causing. The façade nearly broke down when Tanya buzzed to say Lance was on the phone, but she managed to say “take a message” in a calm voice, before hanging up and returning her now-blurred gaze to her desk. She pulled a blank sheet of paper towards her and began to scribble, as always, finding relief as she expressed her feelings in the lyrics. Having spent the previous two nights with Angela, she was both nervous and glad to return to her own home that evening. A quick phone call to Mrs Jefferson had confirmed Lance had not put in another appearance, so after returning to pick up her bags from Angela’s house and thank her for all she’d done, she made her way back to her apartment. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Tue Jan 16, 2007 2:22 pm ] |
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Just as I started reading this, 'Take My Breath Away' from Top Gun came on Pandora. I like a good romantic soundtrack for my reading! Thanks Liz! Bring back Peter! |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Tue Jan 16, 2007 3:08 pm ] |
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Poor Phil; she's doing the right thing, though, keeping Tanya at arm's length. |
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| Author: | Ruth B [ Tue Jan 16, 2007 3:39 pm ] |
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Good for Phil! Hope she can keep it up. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Jan 16, 2007 8:06 pm ] |
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Very well done, Phil - especially the 'take a message' bit. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Tue Jan 16, 2007 8:54 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I'm glad that she is still ignoring Lance's calls. |
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| Author: | Smile :) [ Tue Jan 16, 2007 9:09 pm ] |
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Good for Phil. Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Wed Jan 17, 2007 2:33 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz! |
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| Author: | LizB [ Thu Jan 18, 2007 8:29 am ] |
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Phil sat on the sofa, the TV on but not penetrating her thoughts. How things had changed over the last few days. Only on Saturday she had convinced herself that she and Lance would be together forever. Now she never wanted to see him again. She picked at the corner of a cushion, wondering how she could have been so blind, so stupid. She thought back over her relationship with him. Why had she never noticed that he only ever called her Pippa? Why had she allowed him to push her further and further along a path she did not want to go? She had to face up to facts. She had been flattered by his attention. He was good-looking, smooth-talking, charming when he wanted to be, and had seemed to be devoted to her – she snorted, so much for devotion. She couldn’t help wondering, had there been other women? How long had she been taken for a fool? How long had he been seeing Tanya? How could Tanya have done this to her? How had she kept up a front – even asking if she was going to marry Lance and while be seeing him behind her back? How could have been so deceitful to a friend? At the memory of the betrayal, the man she had thought she loved and the woman she had believed was her friend, she buried her face in the cushion and sobbed. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Thu Jan 18, 2007 10:28 am ] |
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Poor Phil it was a double betrayal for her. If I were her I would find a new assistant soon too |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Thu Jan 18, 2007 11:00 am ] |
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Oh Phil... Thanks Liz, more soon please! |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Jan 18, 2007 12:45 pm ] |
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Poor Phil - I agree, Tanya doesn't deserve to keep her job - hers was just as bad a betrayal. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Thu Jan 18, 2007 1:40 pm ] |
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Yes, I'm in favour of Tanya getting sacked, too! Poor Phil. I hope she's feeling happier soon. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Thu Jan 18, 2007 5:03 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. Tanya deserves to be sacked. |
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| Author: | Alex [ Thu Jan 18, 2007 5:16 pm ] |
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I think she should be assassainated - sacking is too good. |
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| Author: | Smile :) [ Thu Jan 18, 2007 6:45 pm ] |
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awww poor Phil. |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Fri Jan 19, 2007 3:16 am ] |
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I think last time around this was the point by which I'd given up entirely on the last-hope-for-friendship scenario in which what Phil saw of Tanya involved use of drugs by an even more wicked Lance.... Poor Phil.
But thank you, Liz. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Fri Jan 19, 2007 9:00 am ] |
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Kissing Sandra had been a pleasant experience, Geoff thought. Not bone-melting, earth-stopping, all-encompassing like kissing Angela had been, but enjoyable, and one he intended to repeat when he had the opportunity. After all, Sandra was completely different from Angela; it would surely be more disturbing if kissing her had been the same. Maybe he would never find another woman whose kisses set him on fire like Angela’s did. But she had not wanted to marry him, had said to have his child would be a disaster, could not have loved him. He knew she had felt the same physical connection, but obviously the emotional involvement had all been on his side. He didn’t intend to make that mistake, open himself up to that kind of hurt, again. That was why he was taking things slowly with Sandra; not rushing into anything, making sure his heart was safe. The phone ringing disturbed his reverie. He answered it to hear Sandra’s voice at the other end, saying she’d now got her rota and would be able to come to lunch at his sister’s in a couple of weeks time. Geoff forgot his previous thoughts as they chatted away and, when they eventually hung up, he went to bed feeling content. Sandra was a genuinely lovely girl; he enjoyed her company and looked forward to seeing her again. That was all that was needed. It wasn’t, however, Sandra’s face he saw, her laughter he heard, or her lips he kissed in his dreams. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Fri Jan 19, 2007 9:29 am ] |
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Oh dear - poor Geoff. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Caroline [ Fri Jan 19, 2007 9:36 am ] |
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Yes, poor silly Geoff. Settling for second best just because it's easier, and "making sure [your] heart is safe" is never going to work... Thanks, Liz - I'm really enjoying this. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Fri Jan 19, 2007 10:40 am ] |
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Poor Sandra - I hope she doesn't get hurt by Geoff's attitude. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Fri Jan 19, 2007 12:21 pm ] |
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Oh dear, Geoff. Take care. Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Fri Jan 19, 2007 12:30 pm ] |
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That's very sad. Poor Geoff. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Fri Jan 19, 2007 1:42 pm ] |
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I don't think its a bad thing he's taking it slowly especially after a bad relationship. He does need to sort out what he wants and be careful of Sandra's feelings too |
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| Author: | Smile :) [ Fri Jan 19, 2007 2:22 pm ] |
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Poor Geoff. Thank you Liz |
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| Author: | LizB [ Sat Jan 20, 2007 11:33 am ] |
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“Come on in,” Felicity welcomed her guests, holding the door open to allow Juliette and Kester into the house, followed by Phil. “The hordes are in the living room. Give your coats to me and I’ll put them upstairs.” Once divested of their coats, and in Phil’s case kicking off her shoes, they made their way into the living room, where they were greeted by a chorus of ‘hello’s, and got absorbed into the general chatter. Juliette and Kester sat on the sofa next to Roddy, and Phil made her way to a low footstool near to Geoff and Sandra, and had soon been introduced and was chatting away, gradually relaxing in the comfort of being with family. It wasn’t until they were sitting round the table eating that Roddy suddenly asked, “So, where’s Lance then Phil? I thought you’d have brought him with you.” Phil put down her fork, her appetite suddenly gone. “Lance and I aren’t together any more.” “Oh. What happened?” Roddy asked curiously. Felicity saw Phil stiffen and the pain shadowing her eyes and wished Roddy would learn some tact. A quick, surreptitious flick of her hand sent her wine glass toppling over, the red liquid spilling across the table. It was a shame to sacrifice her best tablecloth, but it could be replaced and drastic measures were needed. By the time everything had been cleared off the table, a clean cloth spread on it, and everything put back again, they were all too busy teasing Felicity for her clumsiness to return to the question. Felicity did not forget, however, and resolved to keep an eye on her younger sister for a while, without asking any awkward questions. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Sat Jan 20, 2007 12:38 pm ] |
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I love Felicity, she's great. Is Roddy married to anyone yet? Or is he just visiting in a sort-of-brother capacity? I've been so caught up in the Lance "Hot Lips" Saga, that I've forgotten all about everyone else! Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Sat Jan 20, 2007 1:09 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I hope that Geoff won't hurt Sandra. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sat Jan 20, 2007 3:26 pm ] |
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Felicity you're a star!
Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Sat Jan 20, 2007 4:13 pm ] |
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Loved the strategic wine glass! Thank you, Liz. |
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| Author: | Smile :) [ Sat Jan 20, 2007 6:56 pm ] |
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Felicity is ace, so nice to her sister. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Alex [ Sat Jan 20, 2007 11:16 pm ] |
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*Sends Lance the bill for a new tablecloth* Thanks, Liz. |
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| Author: | Mary [ Sun Jan 21, 2007 11:54 pm ] |
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Liked Phil kicking off her shoes...I recognised that little thing in me! Felicity is lovely-her best tablecloth! All these characters are fabulous Liz. I'm really enjoying this. M x |
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| Author: | Nell [ Mon Jan 22, 2007 12:56 pm ] |
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Yay for Felicity! Thank you Liz. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Mon Jan 22, 2007 1:35 pm ] |
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Glad Felicity was able to rescue the situation. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Jan 22, 2007 1:56 pm ] |
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The rest of the meal passed smoothly. Afterwards, everyone insisted on helping in the kitchen, and there was chaos for a few minutes before Anthony, who was washing up, took control. “Okay, you, you and you can dry stuff,” he picked on the three nearest people. “Fliss you’d better supervise putting stuff away or we might never find it again.” he grinned. Felicity laughed. “We’ve still not found the pickle fork since Papa put stuff away when they visited last year.” she explained “goodness only knows where he put it! Who can I have to supervise?” “I’ll do it.” volunteered Kester. “Okay, that’s enough then.” Anthony decreed. “You two,” he looked at Phil and Geoff, “can get out of the way here and go and keep an eye on Emilia and Phoebe.” The twins went as ordered, and settled themselves comfortably in the living room, where Emilia was building a tower, while Phoebe slept in her baby chair. “Sandra seems nice.” Phil commented, as she handed a brick to Emilia. “She is.” agreed Geoff. There was a short pause before he asked: “You want to tell me what happened with Lance?” Phil looked down and turned a brick round and round in her hands for a long moment, then looked up. “He cheated on me,” she told him, “and not just that, but with Tanya.” Geoff was raging. “How could he?! What scum! If only I had 10 minutes alone with him. I’d soon teach him a lesson!” Phil gave a watery smile. “That’s what Angela said.” “Angela?” “Yes, I went to stay with her for a couple of days, just to get away. I know you two rowed and split up, but she didn’t mind me calling her.” The questions raced round in Geoff’s head: How is she? Did she mention me? Is she seeing someone else? Does she regret us splitting up? Does she even think of me any more? Then from the chatter in the kitchen he suddenly heard Sandra’s voice as she answered a question, and pulled himself up short. Angela was in the past, he reminded himself. He was with Sandra now. He turned back to Phil. “And are you ok?” “I will be.” It was said with a determination he recognised. “Well, let me know if I can do anything, ok?” “Thanks, I will.” Brother and sister smiled at each other in understanding, then, in unspoken agreement changed the subject to discuss plans for Christmas, a topic that kept them amused until the others trooped back in from the kitchen. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Mon Jan 22, 2007 2:42 pm ] |
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That's really nice of Geoff. I think its pretty understandable he's still interested about Angela |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Jan 22, 2007 4:29 pm ] |
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Pleased that Phil was able to tell her twin. Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Mon Jan 22, 2007 5:15 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz. I think we'd ALL be glad if Geoff taught Lance a lesson... |
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| Author: | Chair [ Mon Jan 22, 2007 5:17 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. It was nice to see Geoff and Phil together. |
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| Author: | Kat [ Mon Jan 22, 2007 5:23 pm ] |
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Thank you, Lizard!
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| Author: | Smile :) [ Mon Jan 22, 2007 8:00 pm ] |
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Thanks! |
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| Author: | LizB [ Tue Jan 23, 2007 1:33 pm ] |
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“I had a lovely time.” Sandra told Geoff as he dropped her off late that evening and walked her to the doorstep of the nurses’ home. “You’ve got a nice family.” “Thanks. I’m glad you came.” “Me too.” she leant in and kissed him softly, and he put his arms around her and kissed her back. “I’ll see you on Thursday then,” she added, when they pulled apart. “I’ll pick you up about 7.30.” “Great.” She smiled and this time he initiated the kiss, before she opened the door and went inside. Geoff returned to the car and drove home. He had had a good time with Sandra. He liked her very much and did enjoy being with her. He would not think about Angela again. But that, he discovered, was easier said than done. |
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| Author: | Ruth B [ Tue Jan 23, 2007 1:36 pm ] |
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Geoffrey, Geoffrey, Geoffrey. *Shakes head* Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Tue Jan 23, 2007 5:41 pm ] |
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It was just because Phil had mentioned her, he decided. That was all. Otherwise she wouldn’t have come into his head. But now he had been reminded about her, he couldn’t help remembering. How her eyes would sparkle with laughter, how her head would tilt to once side as she considered a question, how her smile made him feel warm from head to toe, how her chin would jut out in determination, how her head felt so right resting against his shoulder, how one glance from her could have him desperate to kiss her, how she fit perfectly in his arms when they danced, how just thinking of her now, had him aching to see her, to touch her, again. But that wasn’t going to happen. It had all gone horribly wrong, he reminded himself. And he was with Sandra now. She would never hurt him that way, she was nice, she was fun to be with, they had other friends and work in common, they were comfortable with each other. He was doing the right thing. Given time Angela would fade from his memory. Given time he would forget about her. Given time she would not consume his thoughts, fill his dreams. Yes, time was all he needed. |
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| Author: | Kat [ Tue Jan 23, 2007 6:32 pm ] |
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Awww
Poor Geoff! Liz, be nice to him, let him be happy! |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Jan 23, 2007 7:44 pm ] |
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Poor Geoff - I think he's protesting too much there - and poor Sandra if that is the case. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Alex [ Tue Jan 23, 2007 8:19 pm ] |
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Even if he's not protesting too much I still don't think he's being very fair to Sandra. |
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| Author: | Smile :) [ Tue Jan 23, 2007 9:48 pm ] |
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Poor Geoff Thank you Liz. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Wed Jan 24, 2007 1:36 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Wed Jan 24, 2007 8:50 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I think that Geoff is trying too hard to convince himself. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Thu Jan 25, 2007 8:47 am ] |
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“Mum, have you got those letters you wanted posted?” Lucy came into the living room as she asked the question. “I’m off to the post office – anything else you want while I’m there?” Phoebe smiled at her daughter. “Here they are. I don’t think there’s anything else, thanks.” “Okay, I won’t be long. See you later.” She gave her mother a quick kiss on the cheek and was off. It didn’t take her long to walk along to the village, post the letters, purchase some chocolate and a few other items, and head back again. Even though she still hadn’t decided what she was going to do with her time, she was feeling content. There was no great hurry to settle down to doing something else; she had decided to give herself a few months break first. And she was enjoying herself. A good talk with Reg had given her peace of mind about Phoebe’s health, after that first worrying setback her mother had recovered and there had been no further scares. Old friends and acquaintances came to call to welcome her back and the little chalet had become quite a busy place, with visitors dropping by most days. Phoebe had enjoyed having the company too, and Lucy had felt another rush of guilt as she thought how lonely her mother must have been while she was away. She was blaming herself unnecessarily. Phoebe had plenty of friends on the Platz and had not been at all lonely. Neither would she have wanted Lucy to have stopped dancing and come home to be with her any sooner than she had. Lucy, however, kept her worries to herself, so could not be reassured on that point. Just now though, all worries were gone from her head, banished by the sunshine and fresh air, and she danced a few steps as she made her way along, drawing a smile from the man who had just reached the road from another path, seen her and was waiting. “Charles, hello.” She greeted him with a bright smile. “Hi, Lucy. Been shopping?” “Oh, just some writing paper and so on. Nothing exciting. Are you headed my way?” Charles conveniently forgot that he had been intending to visit the post office himself and fell into step beside her. “Allow me to escort you home, mademoiselle.” Lucy laughed. “Why, thank you kindly sir.” She tucked a hand companionably through his arm. “So, how’s things with you? Any more trips abroad coming up?” “Not for a couple of weeks. Then I’m off to America for nearly a month.” Discussing his upcoming trip filled the rest of the short journey back to the chalet. “Won’t you come in for coffee?” Lucy invited as they reached the gate. “Mum would love to see you.” “Well, if you insist.” “I do insist. Come on.” She pushed open the gate, and he followed her up the path. She opened the front door, “Hi Mum, I’m home. We’ve got a visitor,” she called as she entered. “Mum?” she called again, when there was no response, and hurried to the living room. “No!” she gasped. A second later she was across the room on her knees beside the still body of her mother. “Mum!” Her voice was full of panic as she reached for Phoebe’s hand. “Mum!” |
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| Author: | Nell [ Thu Jan 25, 2007 9:18 am ] |
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No...what's happened to Pheobe? Good thing Charles is there... Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Ruth B [ Thu Jan 25, 2007 9:40 am ] |
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oh noooooooooooooo! I was guessing that part must be coming soon, but I was hoping you would have changed it Liz! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Thu Jan 25, 2007 10:29 am ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I had remembered that part and was dreading it. |
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| Author: | Kat [ Thu Jan 25, 2007 11:46 am ] |
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*growls* Lizard, come back and post some more! Please! *hugs Lucy and cries* |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Thu Jan 25, 2007 3:13 pm ] |
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Poor Phoebe - and poor Lucy. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Jan 25, 2007 3:41 pm ] |
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So pleased Charles is with Lucy. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Thu Jan 25, 2007 4:36 pm ] |
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Oh no! This is terrible! Poor Phoebe. And poor Lucy, but I'm very glad she met lovely, lovely Charles. Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Fri Jan 26, 2007 4:25 am ] |
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Poor Phoebe. I've just got my GGB copy of 'Rescue', so I'm looking forward to reading all about Phoebe and refreshing my memories of her. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Fri Jan 26, 2007 8:39 am ] |
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There was no response to her frantic calls. She was dimly aware of Charles beside her, reaching over for Phoebe’s other hand and laying his fingers on her wrist. Then he leapt to his feet and rushed to the hallway to pick up the phone. She did not hear what he said, all her attention being focused on Phoebe. “Mum, please answer me. Mum, please.” She begged, her eyes filling with tears, although they did not fall. “Mum.” She reached out to shake her, but Charles, back at her side now, stopped her. “Better not to move her,” he said, “there’ll be an ambulance here any minute.” It wasn’t long at all, but it seemed an age to the two kneeling there before there was a knock on the still-open door and James entered the room, followed by two men with a stretcher. James and Charles exchanged a glance and then Charles gently tugged at Lucy. “Come on, Lucy, let James examine her.” Lucy reluctantly moved away, although he could not coax her to leave the room as James checked Phoebe over, then gave her an injection. She watched with frightened eyes as her mother was carefully lifted onto the stretcher. “Is she ….?” The whispered question hung in the air. “We need to get her to the San, Lucy. We’ll need to x-ray her and run some tests.” James told her, not wanting to say more until he had the chance for a more detailed examination. “Charles, my car is outside. If I go in the ambulance with Phoebe, will you bring Lucy along?” Charles nodded, and kept his arm around Lucy as they stood back to let the stretcher pass. “Come on Lucy,” he gently escorted her out to the car, “they’ll take good care of her.” He helped her in and fastened the seatbelt around her. The ambulance had already departed, and he started the car and followed behind. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Fri Jan 26, 2007 9:15 am ] |
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It's a good thing Charles was there to support Lucy. I hope Phoebe's going to be ok. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Fri Jan 26, 2007 1:22 pm ] |
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I also hope Phoebe is going to be alright. What a good thing Charles was there to support Lucy. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Fri Jan 26, 2007 5:10 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Kat [ Fri Jan 26, 2007 5:33 pm ] |
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More, please Liz, soon! I want to know how Phoebe is
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| Author: | Chair [ Fri Jan 26, 2007 6:06 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I hope that Phoebe will be ok. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Fri Jan 26, 2007 7:22 pm ] |
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((((Lucy and Phoebe)))) Pleased Charles is there. Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Becky [ Fri Jan 26, 2007 9:28 pm ] |
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Really enjoying this, thanks Liz. Dare I ask if you'll be nice to Phoebe?! |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Sat Jan 27, 2007 8:58 pm ] |
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Oh, dear.
Glad Charles was there, at least. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Jan 29, 2007 1:33 pm ] |
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The next few hours passed in a blur to Lucy. She was vaguely aware that Charles’s comforting presence never left her. She gripped his fingers tightly when the doctors came to speak to her and nodded mutely to show she had taken in the news they had told her. With a shaking hand she signed the forms they brought her. She accepted the cups of sweet tea that were pressed into her hands, put on the jacket he slipped around her shoulders when she started shivering, and nodded ‘hello’ to various people who turned up and sat with them, although she barely registered the presence of Jo and Jack, Len or Hilary Graves and, seeing the state she was in, they tactfully withdrew to wait until they were needed, leaving her to Charles’ care. Eventually, James and Reg returned to the room where they were waiting. Lucy jumped to her feet when she saw them. “Mum, is she … ?” Reg smiled gently at her. A tired smile, but a smile nonetheless, and she felt a surge of hope. “The surgery was successful. She’s stable. She’s unconscious at the moment, but you can go and see her for a few minutes if you’d like to.” “She’s going to be ok?” whispered Lucy. “We can’t say for sure yet, but we hope so.” The room spun around her and then went dark. Charles caught her as she fell. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Mon Jan 29, 2007 1:45 pm ] |
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I hope so too. Charles is such a wonderful SLOC! Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Kat [ Mon Jan 29, 2007 1:58 pm ] |
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Luffly Charles!
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| Author: | Sarah_G-G [ Mon Jan 29, 2007 2:24 pm ] |
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I've spent the past 2 days reading this entire trilogy- I'm almost sorry I've got to the end and will have to wait for the next bit! Such nice characters! |
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| Author: | Sarah_K [ Mon Jan 29, 2007 3:58 pm ] |
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Good for Charles! Nice to see Joey and Jack will have raised their boys to be lovely SLOCS
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Mon Jan 29, 2007 4:25 pm ] |
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What a lovely boy... Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Mon Jan 29, 2007 5:01 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. It's good that everyone is being so comforting. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Jan 29, 2007 7:40 pm ] |
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Pleased Lucy had all that support. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Smile :) [ Mon Jan 29, 2007 7:47 pm ] |
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Caught up again, thanks Liz. Poor Lucy that muast have been awful for her. |
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Mon Jan 29, 2007 10:40 pm ] |
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Poor Lucy - thank goodness Charles was there. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Tue Jan 30, 2007 1:26 pm ] |
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Charles is a true SLOC! I'm so glad he's been there for Lucy. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Tue Jan 30, 2007 1:31 pm ] |
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The faint was only momentary. She had barely been lowered gently down onto the floor before her eyes fluttered open. For a moment she gazed into the grey eyes above her in puzzlement, then she remembered and tried to sit up. “Mum!” “Slowly, Lucy, we don’t want you fainting again.” James told her, as Charles held her back with a firm hand. “That’s it.” This time she was helped to sit up more slowly. “Now stay there for a few minutes.” “Lean against me.” Charles instructed her, and she obeyed, glad for the support. She sipped slowly at the glass of water Reg presented her with. “Feeling better?” Reg asked after a few minutes. Lucy nodded. “May I go and see Mum now?” “Of course,” Reg agreed, “careful now.” he added, as Charles helped her stand up. “Come on, I’ll take you to her.” |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Tue Jan 30, 2007 1:53 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Jan 30, 2007 7:33 pm ] |
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Poor Lucy - good thing Charles is there for her. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Tue Jan 30, 2007 9:51 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. Everyone is being so supportive. |
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| Author: | francesn [ Wed Jan 31, 2007 1:43 pm ] |
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Aww Charles is LOVELY. So glad he was there for Lucy. Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | LizB [ Thu Feb 01, 2007 1:33 pm ] |
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Phoebe lay motionless and white in the bed. Lucy looked worriedly at the paraphernalia surrounding her, and Reg hastened to explain. “This one’s keeping track of her heartbeat. You know she has a weak heart, don’t you,” Lucy nodded, “Well, this shows us what it’s doing – and it’s fine, nothing to worry about.” He continued to tell her about the other equipment, then with a few more reassuring words, and telling Lucy not to hesitate to call him if she had any questions, he left the room. Lucy leant a little over the bed. “What were you doing Mum, giving me a shock like that?” she asked softly. There was no response from the bed, just the continuing beep of the machines. Lucy’s eyes started to overflow with tears, which started slowly, but could not be stemmed. Standing slightly back from the bed, Charles saw her shoulders start to shake and felt a sense of unease. He searched in his pocket and withdrew a handkerchief. Stepping forward next to her, he held it out awkwardly. “Here.” he offered. Lucy took it from him, wiped her eyes and let out a sob. “Come on,” Charles said, hoping he was doing the right thing, and gently guided her away from the bedside and out of the room. He felt relief flood over him as he saw Jo sitting a short distance down the corridor and steered Lucy into her waiting arms. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Thu Feb 01, 2007 2:48 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. It's good that Reg explained things to Lucy. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Feb 01, 2007 2:56 pm ] |
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Poor Lucy - glad Jo is there for her. Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Sarah_K [ Thu Feb 01, 2007 3:06 pm ] |
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Nice to see Reg explaining things so carefully, and I'm glad Joey's there to mother Lucy a bit *hugs her and Charles who's been being very good* |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Thu Feb 01, 2007 3:24 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz, I feel very bereft on the days when there's no update of this lovely story.... |
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| Author: | LizB [ Fri Feb 02, 2007 8:43 am ] |
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After a good cry in Jo’s motherly embrace, Lucy felt exhausted. She was loath to leave the San, wanting to return to Phoebe’s side, but allowed herself to be persuaded to go and rest for a few hours, after she had been assured there was no possibility of Phoebe waking up for a while, and promised a phone call to let her know if there should be any change (the words ‘for the worse’ hung in the air but were not spoken) in her condition. Despite Jo’s entreaties Lucy refused to go to Freudesheim to sleep, maintaining she would rather go back to their own home, and Jo was wise enough not to press her on the matter. Charles, who had loitered uncomfortably in the vicinity, unsure what to do while Lucy was sobbing, was pressed into service as chauffeur again, this time driving Jo’s little runabout, and before long Jo was tucking Lucy up in bed, while Charles brought her a mug of cocoa. Once he’d delivered the cocoa, Charles retreated to the living room. Lucy’s bags were still kicked to one side of the doorway, where she had dropped them earlier, and he picked them up and put them on the armchair, then straightened up the furniture that had been pushed aside. He had just finished and sat down with a freshly made mug of coffee when Jo appeared in the doorway. “She’s asleep.” Jo said, dropping onto the sofa. “I promised her that we would wake her if anybody phoned, and that she can go to the San as soon as she wakes in the morning.” “We?” asked Charles. “You look absolutely bushed, Mamma. You shouldn’t stay here all night. Why don’t you go home?” “I can’t leave Lucy on her own.” Jo objected. “Apart from anything else Phoebe’s my friend. I can’t let Phoebe down.” her voice was trembling as she finished the sentence, remembering how helpless and small her friend had looked in the hospital bed. Charles scooted over the sofa and put his arm around her shoulders “Lucy won’t be alone, Mamma.” he assured her. “I’ll stay here and answer the phone if anyone rings. You should go home and sleep yourself, otherwise you’ll be no good to man nor beast in the morning.” Jo gave a slight smile at the argument she herself had used to Lucy only a short while earlier. “You’ll call me if there’s any news?” she asked, capitulating. “Of course. Drink this.” he pushed his mug into her hands. “I’ll go and phone Dad.” |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Fri Feb 02, 2007 9:12 am ] |
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Awwww, lovely Charles, lovely Joey. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Fri Feb 02, 2007 10:37 am ] |
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Thanks, Liz. Charles and Jo are doing a really good job of looking after Lucy. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Fri Feb 02, 2007 10:56 am ] |
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Charles and Jo are both being so good here. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | francesn [ Fri Feb 02, 2007 11:25 am ] |
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Yay for Charles and lovely Joey! Thank you, Liz |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Fri Feb 02, 2007 11:37 am ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I'm so glad that Lucy has such great support from her friends. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Fri Feb 02, 2007 11:46 am ] |
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Lovely, lovely, lovely! Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Nell [ Fri Feb 02, 2007 12:46 pm ] |
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Thank you Liz. Lovely Charles and Joey. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Sun Feb 04, 2007 5:53 am ] |
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Charles and Joey are being lovely there. Thanks for the updates |
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Feb 05, 2007 1:40 pm ] |
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It wasn’t long before Jack arrived, and took Jo home, putting her to bed in much the same way she had Lucy. “Jack, will Phoebe be alright?” Jo asked, as he climbed into bed next to her. “I don’t know Jo. I know Reg and James were satisfied with the operation, but you know as well as I do that she’s always had a weak heart. We can only wait.” “And pray.” she added. “And pray.” he agreed. There was a silent pause. “Jack?” Jo murmured a while later, her voice sleepy. “Yes?” “Did I ever tell you what a solid lump of comfort you are?” Jack drew her into his arms. “I believe you may have mentioned it once or twice before.” She could hear the smile in his voice. “Well, it’s true.” she snuggled closer and they drifted off to sleep, taking comfort from each other’s nearness. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Mon Feb 05, 2007 1:48 pm ] |
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That was lovely, Liz. Joey and Jack are so strong together. |
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| Author: | Ruth B [ Mon Feb 05, 2007 2:10 pm ] |
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Aww! Are we on "new" stuff now Liz? I don't think I remember that bit. |
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| Author: | Mary [ Mon Feb 05, 2007 2:28 pm ] |
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Oh. How lovely. Everyone in your stories are just so great. Thanks Liz. M xx |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Mon Feb 05, 2007 3:21 pm ] |
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Don't you just love it when Jo calls Jack a SLOC?! Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Feb 05, 2007 4:09 pm ] |
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Awww, snuggle. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Mon Feb 05, 2007 4:55 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. Jack and Joey are so sweet together. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Mon Feb 05, 2007 5:25 pm ] |
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*Sigh* Lovely, thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Feb 05, 2007 5:43 pm ] |
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Ruth B wrote: Aww! Are we on "new" stuff now Liz? I don't think I remember that bit.
No - I think there's six more updates to go before we get to the new stuff - which I'd better get on with writing! |
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| Author: | Nell [ Tue Feb 06, 2007 2:13 pm ] |
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Thank you Liz x |
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| Author: | Josie [ Fri Feb 09, 2007 9:45 pm ] |
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Oh, I love Jo & Jack! And Charles, and Geoff, and Felicity, and Phil, and ... ...you get the picture! Thanks Liz. Have loved catching up with this and am really looking forward to more. x |
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| Author: | francesn [ Sun Feb 11, 2007 5:30 pm ] |
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That last post was just so "awwww" and melty. Thank you Liz |
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| Author: | Smile :) [ Sat Feb 17, 2007 12:48 pm ] |
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Caught up with this eventually although rl did its best for a while. Thanks Liz, all your charaters are so lovely. The last post was lovely also. Will there be any more soon? |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Fri Mar 09, 2007 4:26 pm ] |
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Ahem. More? Please? |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Fri Mar 09, 2007 4:47 pm ] |
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I agree. We really do need more of this, please Liz. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 3:11 pm ] |
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Sorry, RL needs a bit of kicking into submission. I'll try not to neglect this again, but may be a bit sporadic in updates for a while (although I've got a week off work, which may help). Back at the chalet, Lucy also slept; the deep sleep of the emotionally exhausted. In the living room, Charles sat awake and alert. Listening in case she woke up, listening in case the phone rang. He occupied himself for a while doing the small amount of washing up, then made himself another mug of coffee and scanned the bookshelves and selected a whodunnit. At about two in the morning he was assailed by pangs of hunger and realised, to his surprise, that he had not eaten since breakfast the previous day, having been too occupied taking care of Lucy to notice the passing hours. He made a foray into the kitchen and soon returned with a plate of sandwiches and another mug of coffee. He paused in the hallway, outside Lucy’s bedroom, but she still slept, and he settled back down to the book. Dawn was just breaking as he closed the book, with the satisfaction of having worked out the murderer correctly less than halfway through. He took the empty plate and mug to the kitchen, and put the kettle on to boil again. Once more he listened outside Lucy’s door, but all was quiet. It was early yet, and she was tired. No doubt she would sleep a while longer. He had just sat down again, the fresh coffee on the table beside him, when the silence was shattered by the ringing of the telephone. |
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| Author: | Lexi [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 3:17 pm ] |
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Yay, it's back
Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 5:22 pm ] |
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*volunteers to help kick real life into submission* Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 6:42 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. It's great to see this back. I wonder who is calling. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 7:08 pm ] |
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Good to see more of this - thanks Liz.
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| Author: | Ruth B [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 7:15 pm ] |
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Yay! Thank you Liz! |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 8:09 pm ] |
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*hopes it's not bad news* Thank you, Liz! *pokes RL as needed* |
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| Author: | francesn [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 8:35 pm ] |
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*prods RL* Thank you, Liz. I hope the phone call is good news. |
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| Author: | Dawn [ Tue Mar 13, 2007 1:24 pm ] |
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((((Liz))))) fingers crossed for the phone call being positive |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Tue Mar 13, 2007 4:11 pm ] |
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Thanks for the updates, Liz. Great to see this back. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Tue Mar 13, 2007 7:55 pm ] |
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WAHOO! Thanks Liz, I felt rather nagging bumping this to the top of the list for my own selfish ends, so I hope you didn't feel too 'prodded'. That said, I'm very pleased to have an update on the lovely Charles and Lucy... More please, when you can
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| Author: | Elbee [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 8:43 am ] |
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I've been steadily reading my way through this from the beginning of Time for a Change, and I think it's great. I'm glad it's back and I'm really looking forward to some more soon. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 3:48 pm ] |
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Charles leapt to his feet in an instant and was in the hallway lifting the receiver from its cradle before it had finished its second ring. “Hello?” “Hello, is Lucy there?” The voice was female and completely unfamiliar. “She’s asleep at the moment.” At least, he hoped she still was, and he kept his voice low. “Oh …” There was a hesitation at the other end of the line. “Have I got the time difference wrong? It’s mid-afternoon here.” “Well it’s not yet daylight here.” Charles answered. “Would you like to leave a message?” “Oh, no I was just phoning for a chat. Can you tell her Suzie called and I’ll try again another time – we’re doing our last performance here tonight and then moving on, so I’m not sure when it will be, but tell her I said ‘hi’ and I’ll catch up with her sometime soon.” “I’ll let her know.” “Oh and tell her I’ve got some really juicy gossip about Christophe; she’ll just die when she hears it.” “I’ll let her know.” Charles repeated and hung up before she could continue. Hearing a sound behind him, he turned to see Lucy framed in her bedroom doorway, her eyes large and full of fear. “Is it …?” she couldn’t complete the question. “No.” The reassurance in his gaze flooded over her. “It was someone called Suzie.” She nodded, although she barely heard him, as she focused on the first word he’d spoken. “Nobody’s phoned?” “Nobody’s phoned.” “I must go to see Mum. I’ll just get dressed.” She disappeared into her room, and emerged again less than 10 minutes later to find him in the kitchen. “Will you drive me there?” He placed a mug of coffee next to the boiled egg and fresh toast on the table. “When you’ve eaten breakfast.” She opened her mouth to argue, but he didn’t have half-a-dozen younger siblings for nothing and, at the look in his eye, she meekly sat down and picked up a knife. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 4:01 pm ] |
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I hope we meet Suzie properly soon! Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 5:05 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I think that Charles did the right thing in making Lucy eat breakfast. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 6:48 pm ] |
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Ahh, he's a lovely boy. It's so great to have this back, Liz! |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 9:02 pm ] |
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Well done Charles! Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Thu Mar 15, 2007 3:56 am ] |
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Charles is lovely. Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | francesn [ Thu Mar 15, 2007 4:54 pm ] |
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Awww bless him, he's so cute. Hope Lucy isn't missing her old life too much, and I wonder who Christopher is! |
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| Author: | Miriam [ Sun Mar 18, 2007 12:05 am ] |
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Picking up a knife doesn't sound a very meek thing to do. It could be potentially violent. How sharp is it? Did she also pick up a fork? |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Sun Mar 18, 2007 12:14 am ] |
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Nice Charles.
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| Author: | LizB [ Wed Mar 21, 2007 1:06 pm ] |
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Miriam wrote: Picking up a knife doesn't sound a very meek thing to do. It could be potentially violent. How sharp is it?
Did she also pick up a fork? Not to spread her toast:D Approximately 1 month later “Oh, that’s great news, Lucy, you must be so pleased. … Well, we’ll see you when we come over for Christmas, will you still be at Mamma’s then? … Okay, thanks for calling and give my love to Auntie Phoebe. … bye.” Felicity hung up the phone and returned to her guest. “That was Lucy,” she said, “Auntie Phoebe is much better. They’re going to let her out of the San next week and she’s going to stay with Mamma and Papa for a while.” Phil looked over the sleeping baby in her arms to smile at her sister “That’s good, isn’t it.” She looked back down again. “I think her namesake is finally out for the count as well. Shall I take her upstairs?” “I’ll come with you and check on Emilia,” Felicity got to her feet and led the way. They returned a while later, having satisfied themselves that both children were fast asleep, and settled on the sofa. Felicity produced a box of After Eights and placed them on the table within easy reach of both of them. “So, how’s the work on the new album going?” “Okay I suppose.” “Only okay, and you suppose?” Felicity picked up on the lack of enthusiasm in Phil’s voice. “Well, I’ve written a few songs for it.” “But?” prompted Felicity gently. “It’s just they all seem to be about heartbreak and betrayal. And I don’t want my next album to be all about that and Lance to think he’s had that much impact on me.” She paused. “I need to write something happy, but I just can’t.” Felicity leant over and hugged her sister. “It will get better, just give it time. You know you’re welcome to stay here as long as you like. And spend lots of time cuddling Phoebe – it’ll do you loads of good.” “Thanks, I will.” Phil hugged her sister back and then reached for another chocolate. “Where’s Anthony gone to today?” “Oh, he had a meeting in London, although,” Felicity looked up at the clock, “he should really have been back a while ago.” “He might have missed his train, or it might have been held up somewhere.” Phil suggested. “I’ve got a friend that happens to an awful lot.” “Yes, but he usually phones if he’s going to catch the later train.” “He might have done, but you were talking to Lucy, so he wouldn’t have been able to get through.” Phil pointed out reasonably. “Of course, you’re right.” Felicity agreed, she looked at the clock again. “I think that film starts in about 10 minutes – do you fancy watching it?” |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Wed Mar 21, 2007 1:20 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I hope Anthony's ok. |
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| Author: | Miranda [ Wed Mar 21, 2007 2:02 pm ] |
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*joins the Anthony wibbling club* Glad Phoebe is better though
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| Author: | Chelsea [ Wed Mar 21, 2007 2:29 pm ] |
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Sign me up for the Anthony wibbling club as well. Good news about Pheobe though. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Wed Mar 21, 2007 3:14 pm ] |
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*also wibbling* Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Wed Mar 21, 2007 4:42 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks, Liz. I'm wibbling about Anthony as well. I remember this part from the original, but I can't remember what happened next. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Wed Mar 21, 2007 5:55 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Sarah_K [ Wed Mar 21, 2007 6:09 pm ] |
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I keep thinking we've got beyond what I remember from before and then I remember more and now I'm wibbling again 
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| Author: | LizB [ Fri Mar 23, 2007 8:39 am ] |
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As the film wore on Felicity got more and more restless, and, several times, Phil saw her looking anxiously at her watch, although she said nothing. Phil made no comment either, just pushed the chocolate box slightly nearer her in silent comfort. Finally the end credits rolled up and Felicity jumped to her feet. “Something must have happened for him to be this late.” Phil got up and switched off the TV, then put her arm around her sister. “Fliss …” she got no further for at that moment there was the sound of the key in the door. Felicity flew into the hallway and flung herself on her husband. “Where’ve you been – I’ve been so worried.” “Sorry, sweetheart,” Anthony said, dropping his briefcase to return her embrace. “I did try to ring, but I couldn’t get through. I bumped into an old college friend and we got chatting and I missed the train. You weren’t really worried were you?” “I’ve been sitting here for the last hour and a half thinking of all the terrible things that could have happened to you.” Felicity admitted, tilting her head to look up at him. “I don’t know what I’d have done if something had. I don’t know what I’d do without you.” “I don’t know what I’d do without you either.” he replied, his arms tightening about her. Neither of them noticed as, with a small smile on her lips, Phil slipped discreetly though the hall and up the stairs to the guestroom. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Fri Mar 23, 2007 8:40 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
Phew! I'm glad he's ok! |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Fri Mar 23, 2007 8:54 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thank goodness for mobile phones nowadays! Pleased Anthony is OK. Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Miranda [ Fri Mar 23, 2007 12:57 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Well, that sure was a waste of a good wibble!!
Glad he's ok though... |
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| Author: | Chair [ Fri Mar 23, 2007 5:56 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks, Liz. I'm glad that he is safe. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Fri Mar 23, 2007 7:12 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Fri Mar 23, 2007 9:54 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Sat Mar 24, 2007 7:28 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Glad Anthony is ok! |
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| Author: | francesn [ Sat Mar 24, 2007 10:10 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
Glad I missed the wibbling! Hope Phil gets over her block soon. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Tue Mar 27, 2007 7:31 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
It was good to see them and be reassured that love like that really did exist, thought Phil, still wide awake in the early hours of the morning. Would she ever find someone she could love like that who would love her like that in return? Would she be able to tell the difference or would she be fooled again? Was there any way to guarantee that she wouldn’t get hurt? There must be other men out there – like Anthony, like Reg, like her brothers; they couldn’t all be like Lance. If she ever met someone she thought might be the right one, would she dare to take the risk? |
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| Author: | Chair [ Tue Mar 27, 2007 7:51 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
Thanks, Liz. I hope that Phil will find the right man. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Tue Mar 27, 2007 9:40 am ] |
| Post subject: | |
Chair wrote: Thanks, Liz. I hope that Phil will find the right man.
So do I. it's hard being single when all you know are married or with someone |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Mar 27, 2007 5:31 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
((((Phil)))) Of course meeting Lance would knock anyone's confidence. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | francesn [ Tue Mar 27, 2007 9:06 pm ] |
| Post subject: | |
I may be being suspicious but I hope all is well with Felicity and Anthony.... (((Phil))) |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Tue Mar 27, 2007 9:15 pm ] |
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But you HAVE met him, Phil, THINK!!! (Sorry, got a little over-involved there. Thanks, Liz, I love this story...) |
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| Author: | LizB [ Thu Mar 29, 2007 12:44 pm ] |
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Despite sitting awake thinking late into the night, Philippa was down to breakfast early in the morning, arriving in the kitchen just as Felicity put Weetabix into Emilia’s bowl. “Coffee’s perked.” Felicity greeted her sister. “Thanks.” Philippa poured each of them a cup and put them on the table, carefully out of reach of little hands. “Toast for you?” “Yes, please.” Felicity kept an eye on Emilia, making sure more of the weetabix went in her mouth than in her hair, while Phil lit the grill and cut several slices of bread. “Anthony will be down in a minute, so do enough for him, will you?” Anthony appeared a few minutes later and took over the supervision of Emilia’s last few mouthfuls, while Felicity cut some buttered toast into fingers and put them in front of her daughter. “So what do you ladies have planned for today?” Anthony asked with a smile as they finished their meal. “Change the beds, hoover the stairs, if we get the chance go into the garden and plant those bulbs. Go down to the shops for bread and milk and so on.” Felicity recited. “If we can stand the excitement of all that, that is.” She grinned at him. “Well it looks like a good day for it.” Anthony told her with a glance at the sunshine outside. “Why not join us?” suggested Phil. “I might if I can get finished … No, Emilia!” he gently removed the buttery toast she was rubbing in her hair and reached for always-near, damp flannel to clean her fingers and wipe her face. Emilia merely chuckled at him. “You go and get to work then, if you’re hoping to join us later.” Felicity told him, relieving him of the flannel and then lifting Emilia from her high chair. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Thu Mar 29, 2007 1:55 pm ] |
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Ah, a lovely morning scene. Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Thu Mar 29, 2007 1:56 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. That was a lovely scene. |
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| Author: | Dawn [ Thu Mar 29, 2007 2:16 pm ] |
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Oh so familiar with weetabix and toast going everywhere
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| Author: | LizB [ Fri Mar 30, 2007 7:44 am ] |
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This is the last of the reposted bit. Brand new posts coming this way soon :D Felicity and Philippa got the housework done cheerfully between them, with pauses to pay attention to Emilia and Phoebe. After lunch, with the infants settled to sleep, they headed out to the garden, armed themselves with trowels and hand-forks and discussed with great seriousness the best patches for the bulbs. Having made the decision they set to with enthusiasm, and were soon engrossed in their work. After a while Felicity heard Phil humming to herself, and smiled as the same sequence of notes was repeated over again and then the odd word caught her ears, and she recognised the signs of a song in the making. She caught Anthony’s eye as he came out to see them and he understood the silent message not to interrupt the inspirational process. Returning her smile, he started to dig a hole in the place his wife indicated, and they continued to work quietly until a wail from the house told them that Phoebe was awake. |
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| Author: | Miranda [ Fri Mar 30, 2007 9:29 am ] |
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I'm glad that Felicity and Anthony understand Phil so well
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Fri Mar 30, 2007 11:41 am ] |
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Really enjoying reading this |
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| Author: | Dawn [ Fri Mar 30, 2007 12:25 pm ] |
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LizB wrote: This is the last of the reposted bit. Brand new posts coming this way soon :D
Looking forward to them muchly Liz
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| Author: | francesn [ Fri Mar 30, 2007 3:56 pm ] |
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New posts! New posts! Hurrah! |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Fri Mar 30, 2007 4:04 pm ] |
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Yaaaay! Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Fri Mar 30, 2007 6:12 pm ] |
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Pleased Philippa's creativity has returned. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Fri Mar 30, 2007 7:30 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. It's nice that they're so happy. |
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| Author: | Josie [ Sat Mar 31, 2007 11:37 pm ] |
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*looks forward to new bits!* Thanks Liz. Fab as ever.
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 12:23 pm ] |
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The promise of Spring The promise of hope Of light after darkness And warm sun again The words had come to her as she had been putting the bulbs into the ground and imagining the display of colour they would bring in a few months time. Phil could hardly wait to get them down on paper, and when she did found the verses came spilling out after it. She could hear the tune in her head, and by the time she came down for dinner, she had that scribbled down. She would work on the harmonies later. Felicity noticed the change that had come over her sister, and was pleased. It seemed that Phil was able to start to leave what had happened with Lance behind. Now if only she could introduce Phil to some nice young man. Carefully of course; she hadn’t forgotten her disastrous attempts to matchmake her twin. They all laughed about it now, but she knew it hadn’t been one of her brightest moments. It would take time too, there was no point trying to rush Phil into anything before she was ready. But possibly after Christmas. She began to run the young men of her acquaintance through her mind. Maybe she should ask Anthony if he knew anybody. That college friend he had bumped into the other day, perhaps … |
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| Author: | Caroline [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 12:37 pm ] |
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Oh, Felicity! Haven't you learnt anything?
Now, we know a lovely young man who Phil needs to get to know better... Thanks, Liz! Looking forward to more new and shiny updates.
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 4:00 pm ] |
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Thanks for the updates, Liz! |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 4:02 pm ] |
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Ooh, Christmas! I love Christmas stories! Regardless of the season... Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 4:03 pm ] |
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Not so sure about the matchmaking , but -- wonderful that the music's come back. And undepressing music.
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 6:42 pm ] |
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Wonder if Anthony's college friend happens to be a brother of a certain waitress.... Thanks Liz
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| Author: | francesn [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 8:30 pm ] |
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Now that would be convenient, wouldn't it Lesley! Thanks Liz - can't wait to see more of this. |
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| Author: | Dawn [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 9:40 pm ] |
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YAY!!!!!!!!! 
thankyou Liz |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Tue Apr 03, 2007 4:31 am ] |
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It's great to see Philippa so much happier. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Thu Apr 05, 2007 7:38 am ] |
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“I’m going to go back to London after the weekend.” Phil told Felicity a couple of days later. “It’s been lovely staying with you, but I think I need to stop hiding away and get on with things.” “Well, you’re welcome to come back here any time you want to.” Felicity answered, giving her a hug. “It’s been lovely having you here, too. And you can always phone if you just need someone to rant to about anything.” Phil grinned. “As long as it doesn’t mean Anthony can’t call to let you know he’s going to be late!” “Well, yes, there is that!” Felicity admitted, with a laugh. “Although it’s not often that he needs to do that, so it shouldn’t be a problem. Anyway, never mind Anthony’s misdemeanours, what would you like to do for your last couple of days here?” |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Thu Apr 05, 2007 7:53 am ] |
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Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | LizB [ Thu Apr 19, 2007 7:31 am ] |
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“No, she’s not said anything. Not a word. I don’t understand it. You know Pippa was absolutely crazy about you and …” The words were spoken in a low voice and stopped as Tanya saw Philippa, but not before she’d heard them. “Tanya, a word in my office please.” Phil did not even glance at her erstwhile friend as she crossed the room. In the three days since she had returned, she had maintained a strictly professional relationship with her PA, although she had been aware of several surreptitious phone calls going on when she was in her office. “Yes of course.” Tanya held her hand over the mouthpiece to answer, then as Philippa walked through the door she uncovered it. “She’s back, I’m going to have to go, but I’ll see you later.” She paused to listen. “I’ll see what I can do. I’ll ask …” “Now please, Tanya.” Philippa’s voice cut across, and with a quick ‘goodbye’ Tanya hung up the phone and hurried into Phil’s office. “I’m sorry, I was just …” “A personal call, Tanya?” “Yes, but …” “Please do not use the office phone to make them in the future. Now, I need these dealt with urgently.” She thrust a sheaf of papers into Tanya’s hand. “Thank you.” Tanya turned to go, paused and turned back again. “You can’t never talk about it, Pippa.” “Talk about what?” “You can’t pretend it doesn’t matter. It’s been weeks. Why don’t you just say something, anything? Yell at me if it’ll make you feel better.” “About what?” “About me and Lance.” “I have nothing to say about you and Lance.” Philippa was proud of how steady her voice sounded. “How can you have nothing to say? He was your boyfriend. You were in love with him, and I'm your friend and I’ve been sleeping with him. That Saturday wasn’t the first time you know.” “Well I’ve learnt a few things about love and friendship recently. I won’t be so easy to fool in either of them in the future. Now, as I said, those letters are urgent, so please get on with them straight away.” “But, Pippa …” “Tanya, if you are unable to get on with your work, please say so and I will find someone who can.” “No, that’s fine. I’ll get them done now.” Without trying to argue further, Tanya left the room and got down to work. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Thu Apr 19, 2007 7:38 am ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I'm glad that Phil stood her ground. I also had the same thoughts as Lesley. |
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| Author: | Ruth B [ Thu Apr 19, 2007 8:03 am ] |
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Good for Phil! Very impressed at her calmness. |
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| Author: | KathrynW [ Thu Apr 19, 2007 8:59 am ] |
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Oooh lovely new posts! Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Thu Apr 19, 2007 9:08 am ] |
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Yay! Thanks Liz! LizB wrote: “How can you have nothing to say? He was your boyfriend. You were in love with him, and I'm your friend and I’ve been sleeping with him. That Saturday wasn’t the first time you know.”
Did Tanya WANT Phil to thump her? More! More, more, more!!! (please) |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Thu Apr 19, 2007 11:49 am ] |
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Lizzie wrote: Yay! Thanks Liz!
LizB wrote: “How can you have nothing to say? He was your boyfriend. You were in love with him, and I'm your friend and I’ve been sleeping with him. That Saturday wasn’t the first time you know.” Did Tanya WANT Phil to thump her? Probably, it would make her feel less guilty. Echoes all the other pleas for more |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Thu Apr 19, 2007 12:21 pm ] |
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Glad Phil managed to remain so calm. |
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| Author: | francesn [ Thu Apr 19, 2007 6:13 pm ] |
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Well done, Phil! Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Apr 19, 2007 7:34 pm ] |
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Wouldn't have Phil's restraint. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Nell [ Thu Apr 19, 2007 9:46 pm ] |
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Thank you muchly - just about keeping up to date! xx |
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| Author: | ness [ Thu Apr 19, 2007 10:10 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz just joined properly after lurking for ages. Have read all of this and really loved it. |
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Fri Apr 20, 2007 12:13 am ] |
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Very nicely handled Phil! |
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| Author: | Miranda [ Fri Apr 20, 2007 4:25 am ] |
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Well done Philippa! That was well handled. Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Fri Apr 20, 2007 5:55 am ] |
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Whatever is Tanya thinking?
*suspects Lance is using her for something* Phil's behaving heroically here. Hope she's OK afterwards... Thank you, Liz.
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| Author: | Fatima [ Fri Apr 20, 2007 7:00 am ] |
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Phil was brilliant there. I wish she'd just fire Tanya, though. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Fri Apr 20, 2007 7:54 am ] |
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After that, Tanya didn’t try to ask Phil any further questions and there were no more surreptitious phone calls. Phil finished the song she’d started at Felicity’s and then the next one followed. Spare time was filled up with Christmas shopping, finding the perfect presents for her multitudinous family. She went out with Angela a couple of times, spent a weekend with Felicity while Anthony was away, and invited Gini round for dinner. Then a week before Christmas, she met up with Geoff and Roddy at the airport, and the three of them flew home together. Phoebe and Lucy had been at Freudesheim for a while now, ever since Phoebe was discharged from hospital. The rest of the family not already living in the area would arrive over the next few days, the last would be Mike and Laura with Joaquim and Isabella the day before Christmas Eve. Day after day, Freudesheim rang with laughter and chatter from morning to night. |
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| Author: | Ruth B [ Fri Apr 20, 2007 8:40 am ] |
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Yay for Christmas, it will be great to catch up with everyone again! |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Fri Apr 20, 2007 10:23 am ] |
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Yay! It's nearly Christmas! I love a big festive family reunion... Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Fri Apr 20, 2007 4:22 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I hope they all have a good Christmas. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Fri Apr 20, 2007 4:25 pm ] |
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Think Phil is very forgiving - Tanya would have been out on her a*se if I were her boss! Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Josie [ Sat Apr 28, 2007 6:13 pm ] |
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Love the way Phil's handling Tanya.
Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Fri Jun 01, 2007 9:46 am ] |
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*ahem* Liz? I realise that I'm the last person that should be asking people to update their stories, but I want to know what happens to Phil!
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| Author: | LizB [ Tue Jun 05, 2007 8:03 am ] |
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As you asked soooo nicely :lol: Philippa and Catherine escaped the chaos to Philippa’s room, where she handed over various items she had been commissioned to buy in London. “I think that’s everything – is it all ok?” “Absolutely. You’ve done a wonderful job Phil. Thank you so much for getting it all.” “That’s ok.” “Right, I’ll see if I can sneak this lot downstairs then.” Catherine started to gather things up. “Catherine?” Hearing the tone in Phil’s voice, Catherine stopped what she was doing and turned to look at her. “What’s up?” “When …I mean what did you … How did … ” she trailed off. Catherine abandoned everything in a pile on the floor and came to sit next to Phil on the bed. “How did I what?” she asked gently. Phil was quiet for a while, then “How did you get over Eric and know you were over him? And how did you know you were ready to love someone else, really love them this time?” Catherine settled herself a bit more comfortably. “Well. It helped when I realised that he was not worth breaking my heart over, or spending time regretting. There’s nothing like seeing what a fool you’ve been over a guy to help you get over him.” “Oh, I was a fool, alright!” muttered Phil. Catherine was encouraged by the comment. If Phil could see it that way, she was well on the way to recovering from the hurt. “It takes time of course – you can’t rush it and sometimes something will set you back. Like the time I bumped into Eric in Interlaken. Although that also was like a last jolt to get it all out of my system. I really saw him in his true colours. And although I didn’t realise it at the time, I had something more real to compare him with.” She smiled softly to herself as she thought of James. “But how did you – when did you know you were ready to fall in love with James?” “Well, I didn’t really. I mean I just suddenly discovered that I had. Love’s like that; you can’t decide who you’re going to fall in love with, or when. It just happens to you when you’re ready to, and when you meet the right man. And then you suddenly discover that you are. Ask Mamma or Len or Felicity – they’ll all tell you the same.” “How do you know it's the right man?” Catherine smiled an enigmatic smile and hugged Phil to her. “You’ll know.” |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Tue Jun 05, 2007 8:08 am ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I hope Catherine's words help Phil. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Tue Jun 05, 2007 8:41 am ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I also hope that the words will help Phil. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Tue Jun 05, 2007 10:35 am ] |
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Yay! Thanks Liz! Pestering works! It's official!
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| Author: | Sal [ Tue Jun 05, 2007 10:44 am ] |
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Thanks Liz. It's good to see Catherines experience helping Phil. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Tue Jun 05, 2007 3:19 pm ] |
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I hope Phil can move on now. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Jun 05, 2007 5:27 pm ] |
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Awwwwww, so glad that Catherine could help Phil. Thanks Liz.
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| Author: | Sarah_K [ Tue Jun 05, 2007 5:44 pm ] |
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| It's always lovely to see more of this Liz!
I like the way all of the Maynard siblings have their own, very different but also very close, relationships with each other. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Wed Jun 06, 2007 9:28 am ] |
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Sarah_K wrote: :D It's always lovely to see more of this Liz!
I like the way all of the Maynard siblings have their own, very different but also very close, relationships with each other. echoes Sarah |
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| Author: | LizB [ Thu Jun 07, 2007 7:41 am ] |
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Geoff hurriedly wrapped the last few presents, wishing as he did every year that he hadn’t left it until quite such the last minute to do so. He would find it difficult to sneak them under the tree without being spotted as he had been last year. This time last year he (thanks to a rather obvious prompt from his twin) had announced and celebrated his engagement to Angela. How things had changed in a year. He had been so happy convinced that she loved him as much as he had loved her. How stupid he had been. Thank goodness she had ended the relationship before it had gone any further. She had saved them both from making a huge mistake and getting married. For a moment he dwelt on what marriage to Angela would have been like, if only she had loved him. Then he shook his head as if to clear it. He would not think of her today. Today was for family and happiness. And for looking towards the future. And his future wasn’t with Angela. Maybe his future lay with Sandra. He didn’t know for certain yet. She was fun and he enjoyed her company. Was that enough? They could talk about things without arguing. She was calm and rational and caring. This time he wouldn’t be rushing into anything and letting his emotions take control, rather he would control his emotions and be ruled by his brain. He hadn’t really missed her since he’d come away, but then he was used to not seeing her for several days at a time, depending on her shifts, so that wasn’t really surprising was it? She was working over Christmas, but would be flying out to join him at Freudesheim for New Year. He was looking forward to seeing her again. His thoughts were interrupted by a shout from Roddy. “Geoff! Sandra’s on the phone for you.” Just as he was thinking of her. What timing. He hurried down to take the call in the privacy of his father’s study. |
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| Author: | Miranda [ Thu Jun 07, 2007 7:44 am ] |
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Hmmm...I wonder what this phone call will be about?? Quote: He hadn’t really missed her since he’d come away, but then he was used to not seeing her for several days at a time, depending on her shifts, so that wasn’t really surprising was it?
Um...Geoff?? I don't think that's exactly a sign of true love... I hope he isn't going to completely squash his emotions. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Jun 07, 2007 5:09 pm ] |
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Think he still wants Angela - hope this doesn't mean he will hurt Sandra. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Chair [ Thu Jun 07, 2007 5:24 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. If it is Angela he wants, I hope he won't hurt Sandra too much. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Thu Jun 07, 2007 6:13 pm ] |
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Thanks Liz, enjoying this as always! |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Mon Jun 11, 2007 3:25 am ] |
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*wonders if Sandra's plans have changed* Somehow neither seems overly invested in the other. Thank you, Liz. |
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| Author: | LizB [ Mon Jun 11, 2007 12:26 pm ] |
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“So,” Jack began when Anna, Jo and their minions had been persuaded to leave the dinner to cook itself for a while and join with everyone in the salon for a pre-dinner glass of sherry (or apple juice for the younger members of the family, much to Mollie and Jamie’s disgust), and six-year old Marie was proudly and carefully carrying glasses and handing them out as they were poured, “is there anything we should be toasting? Anybody got an announcement they’d like to make before dinner? Engagement? Name change? Pregnancy?” he looked round his family with a twinkle as he asked the question. Those who recalled previous occasions when they had made such announcements giggled and Catherine blushed. “I’m pregnant,” volunteered Laura, after a pause, “although I don’t think that’s quite a shock announcement.” “In that case,” said Jack, raising his glass when the ripple of laughter this had provoked had died down, “to Mike, Laura, Bella, Quim and the baby. And Happy Christmas to us all.” “Happy Christmas!” chorused forty-two voices in response. “And no waters breaking before we’ve finished dinner!” Roddy added with a grin, putting his glass down. “What’s waters breaking, Uncle Roddy?” asked Marie. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Mon Jun 11, 2007 12:35 pm ] |
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Yay! Update! Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Mon Jun 11, 2007 12:38 pm ] |
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Thanks for the update, Liz! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Mon Jun 11, 2007 4:03 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I wonder how Roddy will reply. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Jun 11, 2007 4:50 pm ] |
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Good to see more - thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Sal [ Mon Jun 11, 2007 9:59 pm ] |
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LizB wrote: “What’s waters breaking, Uncle Roddy?” asked Marie.
Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Tue Jun 12, 2007 9:35 am ] |
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Love the update with this |
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| Author: | LizB [ Thu Jun 14, 2007 7:46 am ] |
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“Ask your father;” Roddy answered promptly, “he’s a doctor.” “Daddy?” Marie turned to Reg. Reg pulled Marie onto his knee. “You know Auntie Laura is going to have a baby.” “Yes, it’s in her tummy and that’s why she looks fat.” “Well, when the baby is ready to come out, he or she has to tell Auntie Laura so she knows to get ready for it. And we call that the waters breaking. You see?” Marie nodded. “But why did Uncle Roddy say for it not to happen?” “Because Uncle Roddy likes his dinner and doesn’t want it to be interrupted by the baby arriving.” “But if it arrived today it would be a Christmas baby, like baby Jesus.” “It would, yes, but we don’t think the baby will be quite ready yet. We hope it will grow in Auntie Laura’s tummy for just a few more weeks. Okay poppet?” “Okay, Daddy.” “Good, now why don’t you go and tell Grandmamma that Uncle Roddy has volunteered for after-dinner washing up duty.” He kissed Marie on the nose and she slid off his lap, while Roddy grimaced at Reg, but accepted his fate with good grace. |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Thu Jun 14, 2007 1:05 pm ] |
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Very good answer.
(to both Marie & Roddy )
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| Author: | Chair [ Thu Jun 14, 2007 2:46 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I think that Reg gave a good answer to Marie. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Jun 14, 2007 5:21 pm ] |
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Well done Reg - and Roddy? You deserved that!
Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Ruth B [ Fri Jun 15, 2007 10:56 am ] |
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LizB wrote: “Yes, it’s in her tummy and that’s why she looks fat.”
Out of the mouths of babes and infants... |
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| Author: | LizB [ Fri Jun 22, 2007 12:18 pm ] |
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Dinner was delicious; the cooks were praised and thanked, amid much noise merriment. Roddy recruited half-a-dozen of the younger generation to help in the kitchen; Joey followed them in to make sure her best china did not come to any damage and was chased out again by Mollie, so had to content herself with dire threats as to what would happen to anyone who dropped anything. The youngest ones were taken up to the old nursery – reinstated for the occasion – for a nap while the washing up went on, while the remainder of their elders settled comfortably in the salon for a chat (or in some cases a doze). The peace was shattered when the washer-uppers trooped back in, insisting that it must now be time for presents, and the rest of the afternoon passed by in chaos and laughter as gifts were passed out, unwrapped and admired. “Are you ok?” Mike asked Laura as she paused in helping Bella to open a large box to shift uncomfortably in her seat. “Just a bit of indigestion. I think I ate too much dinner.” “I think most of us did.” Mike answered with a grin, and then turned to admire the train Quim was waving at him. |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Fri Jun 22, 2007 12:26 pm ] |
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LizB wrote: “Are you ok?” Mike asked Laura as she paused in helping Bella to open a large box to shift uncomfortably in her seat.
“Just a bit of indigestion. I think I ate too much dinner.” Indigestion, Laura? Or LABOUR???? Probably jumping the gun there, Liz, but I'm too excited to have an update! |
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| Author: | Ruth B [ Fri Jun 22, 2007 1:15 pm ] |
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Indigestion? I think not! |
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| Author: | Chair [ Fri Jun 22, 2007 4:37 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz. I am echoing Lizzie's thoughts. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Fri Jun 22, 2007 6:28 pm ] |
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It sounds like labour - still, there's more than one doctor there, isn't there?
Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Becky [ Fri Jun 22, 2007 9:56 pm ] |
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Thanks, Liz, another great update
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Fri Jun 22, 2007 11:24 pm ] |
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Indigestion? Ah well, she'll soon know if it isn't!
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Sat Jun 23, 2007 1:53 am ] |
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Well, if your suspicions are correct, both the uninterrupted dinner desirers and the Christmas baby faction could be satisfied.... Thanks, Liz.
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| Author: | Fatima [ Sat Jun 23, 2007 3:35 am ] |
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But if they were hoping Laura wouldn't have the baby for a few more weeks, might this be a little soon? I hope it's all okay for her. Thanks Liz. |
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| Author: | Rob [ Sat Jun 23, 2007 9:55 pm ] |
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Looking forward to the next update. Thanks Liz! |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Sun Jun 24, 2007 12:16 pm ] |
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I hope Laura and the baby will be ok if it is labour. Thanks, Liz. |
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| Author: | Sal [ Sun Jun 24, 2007 10:54 pm ] |
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Two great updates I loved Reg's answer to Marie's question. Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | Ariel [ Mon Jul 09, 2007 10:42 pm ] |
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This is wonderful, Liz... Laura's labour is taking its time though...
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| Author: | Josie [ Wed Jul 11, 2007 10:16 pm ] |
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I'll be sorely disappointed if Laura turns out to have a spot of wind!
Thanks Liz. Have really enjoyed catching up with this. Very glad it's reappeared in my absence! |
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| Author: | Lizzie [ Sat Jul 28, 2007 8:20 am ] |
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*ahem* |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Sat Jul 28, 2007 2:04 pm ] |
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 We really do need some more of this, please Liz.
 Pretty please?
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| Author: | Sunflower [ Tue Aug 21, 2007 12:29 pm ] |
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Wow, i cant wait for the next bit. it took me about a week to read this drabble, and now i'm at the end, i cant wait for more...
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| Author: | Rebecca [ Wed Aug 29, 2007 1:22 pm ] |
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I've spent the last week or so catching up from 'Time for a Change' and absolutely loving the stories. Would really like to find out happens next... |
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| Author: | roversgirl [ Thu Nov 08, 2007 8:13 pm ] |
| Post subject: | re. |
hey! i jsut found this and thinks it's fantastic. although i couldn;t access parts I and II. Hope you have time to update it sometime. |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Thu Nov 08, 2007 10:36 pm ] |
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I have just updated the links in the first post, roversgirl, so they should work now. Another place to try if links within a drabble don't work is the Index Drabble-orum, which is stickied in Ste. Therese and alphabetized by author. |
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| Author: | crystaltips [ Fri Dec 05, 2008 5:07 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: The path of true love ... updated 22 June - page 23 |
I found the earlier parts during a random trawl in the Drabble-orum & loved them. Was really chuffed to find this, but then it stopped.....& I can't find anymore  I think this drabble really needs to be bumped & then maybe Liz will take pity on me & continue it.....pretty please. *lookes for a begging icon & fails* |
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| Author: | Emma A [ Fri Dec 05, 2008 7:26 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: The path of true love ... updated 22 June - page 23 |
Agrees completely with crystaltips. Come on, Liz, please may we have some more? |
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| Author: | lexyjune [ Fri Feb 20, 2009 9:32 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: The path of true love ... updated 22 June - page 23 |
Have just finished reading this from the begining, really loved it and would like to add my plea's for more. |
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| Author: | mush [ Sun Oct 11, 2009 5:29 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: The path of true love ... updated 22 June - page 23 |
Have just found this and read it all! Would like to add my pleas for more! Thanks Liz |
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| Author: | aitchemelle [ Sat Oct 31, 2009 3:25 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: The path of true love ... updated 22 June - page 23 |
Lovely Lizard, I can't believe I didn't read this the first time round. As you know I've read Time for a Change, Felix finds Love and this over the last 24 hours and I loved them! xx
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| Author: | mush [ Tue Nov 03, 2009 9:04 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: The path of true love ... updated 22 June - page 23 |
I've been looking for felix finds love, does anyone know where it is???? Thanks
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| Author: | shazwales [ Sat Nov 07, 2009 8:12 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: The path of true love ... updated 22 June - page 23 |
Just found this,lovely drabble would be very nice to see some more of it hint hint 
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| Author: | aitchemelle [ Sat Nov 07, 2009 11:25 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: The path of true love ... updated 22 June - page 23 |
xchaletschoolloverx wrote: I've been looking for felix finds love, does anyone know where it is???? Thanks If you look at page one of this drabble, there are links to Felix Finds Love!
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| Author: | laurelbay [ Sat Nov 28, 2009 7:29 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: The path of true love ... updated 22 June - page 23 |
This is great Liz!!!! More please!!!
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