A Second Chance - Part two
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#1: A Second Chance - Part two Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 7:42 pm


Long Road Home
(for those who want to catch up on what happened pre-this sequel)


archived for length 15/01/05
A Second Chance - Part one
~Vikki~



“Oh dahling, how perfectly awful!” Tamara drawled, her eyes full of sympathy as she wrapped her arms around his waist and looked up at him. “You poor, poor love, you must be beside yourself.”

Edgar hugged her back, and sighed, trying to ignore the pricking of his conscience as he did so. He was by no means sure he had done the right thing in telling Tamara about Amelia’s illness, he was sure that lady would not approve, but he had needed to speak to someone and with Paul, Elsie and others of his friends so far away, and not really having made any close friends round and about his new home, she was the only person there was to tell. And anyway, if he couldn’t talk to his own girlfriend about things of this nature, then they shouldn’t be in a relationship at all.

“It’s not myself I’m worried about, though I’ll miss her terribly when the end does come, we all will. She’s like family to us now, and the children adore her. But I’m more concerned for her, truth be known. She’s putting on a very brave face, but I can only imagine how she must be feeling just now. I just wish I could do more to help.”

“Yes, the poor lamb, it must be terrible for her.” Tamara leant her head against Edgar’s shoulder, “Is there anything I can do, do you think?”

Aware of his stepmother’s feelings towards his girlfriend, though Amelia had never voiced them to him as such, Edgar hastened to nip this idea in the bud. “Thanks for the thought, Tamara, but no, I don’t think so. Better to leave her to deal with it in her own way. In fact I think it’s probably best if you don’t even let on that you know,” he added with an afterthought, “she’s a terribly private person and she’d hate to think that anyone was pitying her in any way.”

Tamara pulled back and nodded. “Of course, if that’s what you’d prefer. I wouldn’t want to cause any upset after all.” Deciding it was time to change the subject, she added, “So, where are those delightful children of yours?”

“Ned’s at school, and the girls are upstairs in the nursery. In fact,” he replied, checking his watch, “there is one thing we can do for Amelia. Ned won’t need collecting for a couple of hours yet, so why don’t we take the girls out for a walk, get them out of her hair and give her a chance to have a rest. She’s only just returned from London and she must be exhausted, with everything she’s been through today.”

It was a grey, windy October day, and there was nothing Tamara fancied doing less than taking a walk through the countryside with two young children, but seeing how keen Edgar was on the idea, she acquiesced. “Wonderful idea, darling, you go and grab the girls and I’ll wait down here shall I?” and reaching up to peck him on the cheek, she gently pushed him in the direction of the stairs and took herself off to the salon to wait.

Five minutes later the salon door opened and Amelia came into the room. Seeing Tamara sat in one of the chairs, she forced a polite smile onto her face and came over to greet her. “Hello Tamara, what brings you here?”

“Oh, well, I knew Edgar would be at home for a few days rather than in London, so I decided to jump in the car and come on down. How are you Amelia?” she added, a slight glint appearing in her eyes. “I was most terribly sorry to hear about your illness. If there’s anything I can do to help, please don’t hesitate to ask.”

Amelia was taken aback, and not a little angry, that her stepson had chosen to discuss her private matters with this woman, but determined not to show it, she quickly recovered her poise and responded with outward calm. “Thank you for concern, Tamara, but I’m sure I’ll manage fine on my own.”

Tamara hadn’t missed the fleeting look of shock on Amelia’s face, and she hastened to repair the damage. “Don’t be cross with Edgar for telling me, will you? I should probably never have said anything. He’s terribly upset, you know, and he really did need someone to talk to. I promise you I will be the model of discretion.” She paused and looked at Amelia with sympathetic eyes before continuing, “It’s such hard lines on you all, especially the children. They do need a woman around the place. What will they do when you’re gone?”

Before Amelia could reply, the door opened again and Edgar and his daughters came into the room, wrapped up ready to face the cold autumn air. Thea, who had begun to mirror her brother’s reaction to Tamara, hung back, clinging to her father’s hand, and merely smiled at their guest, but Marcia, who was everybody’s friend, came running across the room to give her a hug. Tamara lifted the little girl into her lap, giving her kiss on the cheek, then putting her down she stood up, taking hold of Marcia’s hand.

“Shall we get going, Edgar?”

“Yes let’s.” He turned to Amelia, “We shouldn’t be too long, only an hour or so. I’ll be back in plenty of time to go and collect Ned, and Tamara can see to the girls, so you get yourself some rest. You must be exhausted after all the travelling you've done. You look after yourself, we'll see you later.” Giving her a quick smile, he turned and led Thea from the room, followed closely by the other two, and it wasn’t long before Amelia heard the sound of their voices outside as they walked across the vast lawns towards the woods at the far side.

She watched them go, wondering what on earth her stepson saw in Tamara Truman-Davies. They were utterly mismatched, and she hoped it wouldn’t be too late before he realised it to be the case. She had decided not to take him to task for discussing her illness, realising what Tamara had said was true, he did need someone to talk to, but it didn’t make her dislike the woman any less. She gave a big yawn and realised Edgar was right, she was exhausted. Giving them once last glance, she decided to put the situation out of her mind for now, and took herself off to bed.


Last edited by Josie on Sat Mar 12, 2005 9:55 pm; edited 13 times in total

 


#2:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 7:50 pm


poke hammer poke Tamara He'd only just asked her not to let on she knew! Of all the stupid, insensitive, thoughtless... oooof :angry: Thanks Josie Liz

 


#3:  Author: Helen PLocation: Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 8:36 pm


Quote:
“It’s such hard lines on you all, especially the children. They do need a woman around the place. What will they do when you’re gone?”
...and that is the most insensitive bit of all!! Grrrrr!

 


#4:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 8:44 pm


I don't think she was insensitive - the way I read it she did it deliberately, both letting Amelia know that she knew and mentioning when Amelia was dead. Horrible woman.

 


#5:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 9:14 pm


Note to self, do not read 23 pages of drabble all in one go. Josie, you've had me in tears and laughing out loud. I don't like Tamara either (it's the double-barrelled names thing again, isn't it?) Can't wait for more. JackieJ

 


#6:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 10:26 pm


poke Tamara. I do *not* like that woman!

 


#7:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 11:25 pm


Me, I agree with Lesley. Tamara did it a'purpose. On an unrelated topic Lesley, how come JAOW is locked? Cos it's like 45 pages long or cos you don't want any wibbling at the moment? Laughing ETA: Oh. I stupid. Part four of JAOW is now available. :Bang:

Last edited by Sophoife on Sat Jan 15, 2005 11:43 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#8:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 11:27 pm


Nothing to do with me Sophiofe! I suspect it's about to be archived as it's well over the maximum length - just hope it's done soon - I've got another bit to post!

 


#9:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 1:44 am


Adds Tamara to the poking list. I agree she did that deliberately. She is horrible. Loved Corney's wedding scene. I had forgotten her name. Poor Mike!

 


#10:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 10:12 am


Tamara is so horrid! Evil or Very Mad

 


#11:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 1:39 pm


Leaning across her husband’s lap, Cornelia tapped her friend on the arm to get her attention. “Evvy! Do you think I should…”

"Corney, sit up!” Mike’s voice sounded slightly strangled, and looking up at him she was alarmed to see he had gone a little pale.

“Are you okay? Do you feel sick?”

“No, I’m fine now,” he replied, his voice back to normal and the colour returning to his cheeks, “but if you’d kept your elbow dug in where it was, then those children we’ve talked of would never have happened!”

Cornelia went bright red and Evadne burst out laughing, as did Richard, Mike’s brother and best man, who was seated on Cornelia’s other side. “At least try and keep my brother in one piece for a little while, Corney. I realise we’ve had to marry him off with a crash helmet and full-body armour, but the wedding reception is a bit early to start, don’t you think?”

“In case you’ve forgotten, Richard van Alden, it’s my wedding day, you’re supposed to be nice to me!” Corney retorted, pulling a face at her brother-in-law. Then, turning back to her husband, she lifted a hand to his face and looked at him, concerned. “Mike, I’m so sorry. Did I really hurt you?”

Chuckling, he put his arm round her and kissed her on the forehead. “Don’t worry, sweetheart, no damage done. Just watch where you put your elbows from now on, eh? And you leave her alone,” he added, grinning at his brother, “or you’ll have me to contend with.”

Whatever Richard might have said in reply was interrupted by the sound of fork on glass, and the room fell silent ready for the speeches and toasts. Mr Flower gave a warm, heartfelt speech about his daughter, and Mike was as engaging and witty as always. Then came Richard. Some misguided voice had whispered to him that the proceedings may need livening up, and to that end he set about telling the most outrageous stories he could dredge up, from the time the groom had accidentally set fire to the school gym whilst trying to light a bonfire, to when he and some of his fellow airmen snuck out to a fancy dress party whilst in England during the war, and were caught sneaking back into base dressed as Moulin Rouge chorus girls by their C.O. By the time Richard had finished, the rest of the room, including the bride, were almost apoplectic with laughter, and it was a furiously blushing Mike who rose to his feet to go and cut the cake.

Seeing his discomfort, Cornelia slipped her hand into his as they walked over to the table. “If it’s any consolation, I still love you, even after hearing all that. Guess that means you’re never going to get rid of me,” she whispered, grinning up at him.

Mike looked down at her with a smile, “Damn! And there was me gonna ditch you at the first opportunity!” He winked at her, grinning at the look of indignation on her face, and picked up the knife. “Come on, we have a cake to cut.”

Thinking it wise to leave any retaliation until later, Corney put her hand over his on the knife handle, and they pushed it down or at least they tried to. The icing was rock hard and the tip of the knife had barely made an indent. They tried again but the same thing happened.

“Now what do we do?”

Mike shrugged. “I dunno, press harder?”

Seeing nothing else for it, they both pressed down as hard as they could, and the icing finally gave way. So, unfortunately, did the table, and before anyone could move, the top two tiers of the cake wobbled precariously and crashed to the ground. A horrified silence filled the room, permeated by the odd nervous titter of laughter, as everyone stared at the bride and groom. Mike himself was dying to laugh, but he didn’t dare, and he watched his wife’s face with concern to see how she would react. For a minute or so, Cornelia stood stock still, staring down at the smashed up cake at her feet. Then she looked up and glanced around the room, a smile touching her lips.

“Oh well, guess that saves having to cut it anyhow! Help yourselves!” Everyone burst out laughing, and Mike, with a feeling of relief, joined in and put his arms around her, hugging her tight.

An hour or so later, Evadne was in sat in conversation with her father and Mr Flower, when she felt tap on her shoulder and turned around as Cornelia asked her to come and talk to her while she changed to go away. “And bring your bouquet with you, will you?”

Bemused, Evvy got up and picked up her flowers, following her friend out of the room and up to the bedroom she was using to change. Corney looked up at her as she entered.

“Just stick them down on the side, Evvy.” Evadne did as she was bade, laying them down carefully on the bed, and was about to turn around to face her friend when she heard a shout of “Here, catch!” and she spun around just in time to catch Cornelia’s flowers which that young lady had flung in her direction. "

What on earth are you doing?”

Corney looked at her with a smile, “I’m ensuring you’re the one who catches my bouquet. I’m going to use yours to do the official toss."

Shocked, Evadne opened her mouth to speak but Cornelia quickly hushed her and continued, “Evvy, I know you think you’ll never fall in love again, but I think you‘re wrong. I firmly believe you‘ll meet someone one day, fall in love, get married and be every bit as happy as I am today. I just hope catching my bouquet brings you some of the luck in meeting him, okay?”

Evvy stared at her friend, tears pricking the back of her eyes, not knowing what to say. Coming from the unsentimental Corney, this speech had meant a great deal. She threw her arms around her friend and hugged her, Cornelia returning the hug and holding her tight. When they pulled apart, Evvy wiped some tears from the corner of her eyes, then catching sight of Corney’s shoulder she laughed. “Looks like you have lipstick on both sides now!”

Cornelia looked down at the red mark on her shoulder and grinned. “At least I’m symmetrical! Okay, unhook the back of this thing for me, will you? I’d better get changed sharpish, or Mike will be coming up here to find me!”

Fifteen minutes later she was changed and ready to go. Checking her hair in the mirror one last time, she turned to Evadne and took hold of her hand. “Thanks for coming, Evvy. My day wouldn’t have been nearly so special without you here.”

Evvy smiled back at her. “You’re perfect for each other you know. You’re going to be so happy, Corney,” then with a twinkle in her eye she added, “God help us all when you have kids!”

Cornelia laughed. “They’ll be little angels, I’m sure!” and reaching down to pick Evadne’s bouquet up from the bed, she slipped her free hand through her friend’s arm, and they turned and left the room.


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:20 pm; edited 3 times in total

 


#12:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 1:59 pm


I'm so glad for Corney! Is so good that this is a long drabble - it's the first one I check when I come on! Thanks Jo. Very Happy

 


#13:  Author: Helen CLocation: Sheffield/Luton PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 2:12 pm


Thanks Josie love the bit with the cake.

 


#14:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans/Leicester PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 2:20 pm


Just as chaotic and funny and wonderful as Corney's wedding should be. The bouquet was a great touch too. Very Happy Thanks Josie

 


#15:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 2:42 pm


Thank you Josie, what amazing emotions you take us through!! fume at Tamara ROFL at Corney and Mike Crying or Very sad at Corney and Evvy

 


#16:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 3:54 pm


Thank you Jo! You managed to take me from wild giggles, to tears and back to giggles all in one post!

 


#17:  Author: DawnLocation: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 4:23 pm


Jo that was just lovely - the talk between Corney an Evvy was just so moving Crying or Very sad

 


#18:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 5:02 pm


Thanks Jo! Loved Evvy and Corney, and still giggling about the reception and the cake!

 


#19:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 5:18 pm


Awwww! That is so lovely - how wonderful of Corney to do that for Evvy. Thanks Josie. Laughing

 


#20:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 6:35 pm


:crying: That is beyond lovely. Thank you Jo Kiss

 


#21:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 7:41 pm


Thank you Josie, that was great! sniffles to guffaws to sniffles and back all in one post!

 


#22:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 9:05 pm


*cheers Corney* popperpoke insensitive T. T-D. and trusts she'll get her come-uppance soon*wonders just who baked this cake* (garlic pies, anyone?)

 


#23:  Author: Helen PLocation: Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 10:57 pm


Corney and Mike are made for each other Very Happy Laughing I loved the Corney and Evvy bit too *sniffle*

 


#24:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 9:24 am


That was lovely! Thanks Josie!

 


#25:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 11:49 am


Thank you Jo. Tamara is awful - hope Edgar gets rid of her soon! Loved Corney and Mike - they really are perfect for one another.

 


#26:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 4:19 pm


Thanks for all the comments, and glad you enjoyed Corney's wedding. It was so much fun to write! Keep your eyes peeled in the future for the further adventures of Corney and Mike! Wink In the meantime...


Amelia said goodbye and replaced the receiver on the cradle with a sigh. There’d been nothing much she could say to answer Elsie’s questions, primarily because she didn’t really understand things herself. The announcement of his engagement had been as much of a shock to her as it had been to his friends. She’d spent the whole of the previous night, trying to put herself in Edgar’s shoes, to understand what he was thinking, but she failed to see how he thought this was the right thing to do.

Following the news of Amelia’s illness, Tamara had begun to visit the house with increasing regularity, often not waiting to be invited, just turning up unannounced and forcing herself more and more into their lives. She had continued to make comments to Amelia that seemed subtly laced with venom, and she frequently dropped mentions of the children needing a mother into conversations with Edgar all of which convinced Amelia that she was angling to be the next Lady Watson. However on the surface it all seemed innocent enough, and aware that with no concrete facts to go on she could hardly say anything to her stepson, Amelia let things carry on, hoping he would come to his senses soon.

Ned, with a seven-year-old’s blunt outlook on life, had no such qualms about letting his father know how he felt. Battle lines had been drawn between himself and Tamara that that lady was finding hard to cross. To Edgar however, she had appeared the model of patience and understanding with his petulant child, and impressed with the way that she was handling the situation, he had begun to look upon her in a new light.

Then, suddenly, her visits seemed to stop. They had barely seen anything of her since the end of March, and after five weeks Amelia was beginning to get hopeful that the relationship was finally petering out.

Until, that is, the previous evening. Edgar had arrived home from a few days up in London with Tamara in tow, and when he informed her that they had an announcement to make, Amelia’s heart had sunk into her shoes. She had been politely congratulatory when they had told her of the engagement, and had pretended to admire the ostentatious diamond and emerald ring. However, she had taken herself off to bed as soon as she was able, and had managed to avoid the happy couple so far today.

Now, heading back upstairs to the nursery, she was greeted at the door by Ned, looking somewhat cross. “Granny, ‘s’not fair! Daddy promised he’d play with us, but he’s with her again.”

“I’m sure he’ll be up soon, darling. I can play with you for now if you like?”

“No, I want Daddy! I don’t want her here, why can’t she go away and leave us alone!”

Amelia sighed. “That’s enough, Ned. If you’re going to be rude then I’ll have to send you to bed.”

Throwing her a black look, he turned and stalked off towards Marcia, whom he was helping build a tower with blocks, sitting down and turning his back firmly on his grandmother. Amelia knew she should punish this behaviour, but to be honest she didn’t have the heart. So for once she let it go, and assuring herself that all three children were gainfully occupied, she left the room to go in search of her stepson.

She finally tracked him down to the kitchen, where he was drinking a cup of tea and reading the paper. He looked up and smiled as she entered the room.

“There’s more tea in the pot if you want some?”

Shaking her head, Amelia pulled out a chair and sat down at the table facing him. “Edgar, we need to talk. Where’s Tamara?”

“Upstairs getting dressed as far as I know,” he replied, putting his paper down in surprise. “Why do you ask?”

“Are you aware how much your children dislike her, Ned in particular?”

“Well, yes, I realise he hasn’t taken to her, but that’s only to be expected. I’m sure it’s just a natural reaction to him still missing his mother. And the girls get on with her fine, they just follow his example sometimes, that’s all.”

Fighting the temptation to tell him what a blind fool he was being, Amelia counted to ten and decided to try another tack. “Edgar, do you really love this woman?”

This time, she hit a little closer to home. Edgar looked away, refusing to meet her eye, and standing up he made his way over to the window, staring out at the kitchen garden. He was silent for a long time before he finally answered her. “Does being in love really matter anymore? I can’t see that I’m ever going to love anyone in the way I did Madeleine, so I’m not even sure it’s a salient point.” He turned to face her, sadness in his eyes, “I can’t rely on you being here forever, Amelia, you know that, and the children need a mother, especially the girls. As they get older I’m not going to be enough for them any more.”

“But why her, Edgar? I know you don’t want to hear this, but there’s something about her I really don’t trust.”

“Why? Has she done something?”

“Just call it women’s intuition. You’ve got an awful lot to offer, Edgar, what with this house and the money, and most women of her, er, sort wouldn’t let three children get in the way of getting their hands on what they want. I’m not so sure she loves them quite as much you think. Children are very perceptive you know.”

Edgar put his cup down on the sideboard and crossed his arms across his chest. “Look, Amelia, I know you mean well, but with the greatest of respect this isn’t really any of your business. I’m aware that Tamara may not be in love with me either, but we are fond of each other, and I’m sure it’ll all work itself out okay.”

Turning to walk out of the kitchen, he had just put his hand on the handle to open the door when Amelia called for him to wait. “Edgar, please just hear me out, and then I promise I’ll not interfere again.” He paused for a minute, then making up his mind, he came back to the table and sat down, looking her straight in the face. Amelia breathed a sigh of relief.

“As you say, this may not be any of my business, Edgar, but you people are all the family I have and I don’t want to see you or the children get hurt, so please just listen to what I have to say. You may say you don’t care about not loving this woman, but I don’t believe you. You’re doing this whole thing for the children, but they don’t even like her or want her here so what’s the point? You say they’ll need more than you, but you’re wrong. You’re their father and they love you, and that is all they need. They’ve Elsie, or myself while I’m here, if they need advice when they’re older. I’m not saying it won’t be a good thing for them to have a stepmother one day, but not unless it’s the right person.”

She paused, watching his face for a minute as he stared down at his hands. “And don’t forget Edgar they grow up and leave home eventually, then it will just be you and her. If you ever are going to remarry, then shouldn’t it be someone you really love?”


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:28 pm; edited 4 times in total

 


#27:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 10:26 pm


Well said Amelia! Edgar is such a gentleman though, that he probably can't bring himself to break the engagement himself (plus, Tamara might sue him if he does) Liz

 


#28:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 10:30 pm


I really hope that Edgar listens to Amelia's words of wisdom!

 


#29:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 12:05 am


Thanks Josie. Hope Edgar does listen to her but have a feeling he won't - yet!

 


#30:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 12:13 am


*hisses at Tamara* Please listen to Amelia Edgar! Cheers Jo Very Happy

 


#31:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 12:46 am


Yay Amelia! Listen, Edgar, listen!

 


#32:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 3:42 am


Love the cake not cutting. Serves 'em right for having yucky fruit cake with royal icing obviously!Hate Tamara. That is one nasty piece of work.

 


#33:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 10:26 am


awww, great wedding and Yay for Amelia for speaking so plainly But he's a man - will he actually listen?!? thanks Jo

 


#34:  Author: kerenLocation: Israel PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 11:52 am


I think that she will do something really bad, possibly with the children, and he will be forced to see the light.

 


#35:  Author: dackelLocation: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 1:48 pm


Thanks, Josie, both for the hilarious wedding scenes Very Happy , and the thoughtful description of Edgar's situation.

 


#36:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 3:24 pm


“…and he doesn’t even bother to think about whether it’s what I want for my own son, or what he might want when he’s older. Honestly, now I know why he used to drive Ralph nuts!”

“Swans or fans?”

“Evvy, have you listened to a word I’ve been saying?”

Evadne looked up from her plans, a napkin in each hand, “Sorry, did you say something?”

“I was just telling you my head’s gonna turn green and fall off any day now, that’s all.”

“Oh Cassie, I’m sorry,” Evvy placed the napkins down and looked at her friend, a guilty expression on her face. “It’s just I’ve got to get this done by Friday, and I’m off to Boston tomorrow to see Corney and Mike and…”

“…and Richard?”

“Well, yes, and Richard,” Evadne blushed as she spoke, “but it’s not like that, so don’t you start. Corney’s bad enough.” On the return from her trip to Africa with her father, Evadne had spent New Year in Boston with the van Aldens and had been intermittently dating Mike’s brother Richard ever since. This had caused Mike endless amusement, and had Corney declaring how wonderful it would be for them to be sisters-in-law.

Cassie looked at her and laughed, “Well if you’re going to give us such great ammunition, what do you expect? Okay, okay, I’ll let it go,” as Evadne shot her a baleful glare, “Look, you’re obviously busy, maybe it’s best if I just head home, catch up with you later.”

“No, Cass, it fine honestly, stay,” Evvy checked her watch as she spoke, “Give me ten minutes to get this done, then we can head out, grab a bite to eat, and you can have my full and undivided attention. Now,” she added as Cassie sat down again, “swans or fans?”

Thirty minutes later they were settled in a booth in Ed’s Diner, waiting for their food, and Evadne was talking about her work. “It’s not that I don’t enjoy it, I do. It’s just, oh I dunno – seems like there’s better things I could be doing to help the war vets and widows, you know, rather than throwing parties for the idle rich.”

“Evvy, my dear, we are the idle rich!” Cassie replied with a grin.

Evadne laughed. “You know what I mean! We’re hardly like the people who turn up at most of those things. Anyhow, I’ve decided I’m going to give notice for the end of the summer season, so I’ve got ‘til then to decide what to do.” She took a sip of her coke, then changed the subject, “So, what were you bellyaching about earlier when I wasn’t paying attention?”

Cassie rolled her eyes. “Only my father! He had the cheek to come round last night to find out what schools we're looking at for Sam. He wants to make sure we send him somewhere that’ll ‘groom him well to take over the business!’ The kid’s only seven for goodness sake! I was livid, and Andrew wasn’t all that impressed either.” She took a deep breath and sighed, “Should’ve been Ralph dealing with this for his kids, not me.” There was a pause, then realising what she’d said, she gave Evadne a horrified look, “Oh god, Evvy, I wasn’t thinking! I’m…”

“Cassie, don’t be an ass. You’re allowed to talk about your brother.”

“I know, but kids and everything, you…”

“I really don’t mind you talking about it, it’s okay.” Evvy gave her a smile and sat back in her seat. “It’s odd, I’ve been thinking about it a lot myself lately. Us having kids, I mean. I figure we’d have had a couple by now.” A wistful look came into her eyes as she looked at her friend. “We wanted four, you know, two of each in an ideal world.”

“I didn’t know,” Cassie watched her intently, seeing the faraway look that had come into her eyes as she spoke. It was the first time Evadne had talked like this about Ralph, the first time she’d mentioned anything about their hopes and dreams, and hearing her speak of a life that never happened made Cassie realise for the first time just how much her friend had lost.

Evvy’s thoughts seemed to be in another world. “I always wanted a biggish family, being an only child and all. I didn’t want my kids yearning for a brother or sister as I sometimes did. Ralph agreed, said he’d always thought four was a good size family. And he pointed out that you could never have too many Morgans in the world!” The sound of Cassie chuckling at this last statement brought her back to earth, and she smiled at her, a look of sadness in her eyes. “Guess it was never meant to be."

Not knowing quite what to say, Cassie leaned forward and reached across the table taking her friend’s hand and giving it a squeeze. Evadne looked at her for a moment in silence, then grinned, “Guess I’ll just have to be satisfied with being aunt to your two reprobates, won’t I? How are they doing anyhow? Other than your father trying to turn your son into the next J D Rockefeller!”

Cassie laughed and sat up as the waitress arrived with their food, “Oh the usual! They had all the pots and pans out on the kitchen floor the other day, making their own orchestra, and Andrew walked in and stepped right in the mixing bowl, getting it stuck on his foot! Boy, was he mad! Took us an hour to get it off of him my stomach ached with laughter by the end!” and chuckling at this vision the two friends proceeded to eat their lunch, the past back where it belonged once more.


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:33 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#37:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 3:47 pm


Thank you Jo, that was lovely.

 


#38:  Author: Guest PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 4:28 pm


lovely cant wait to see more of this

 


#39:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 4:30 pm


Thank you Jo!! Wonderful exchange between Evvy and Cassie there.

 


#40:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 4:38 pm


Awwww! Thanks Jo Very Happy

 


#41:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 6:49 pm


Lovely scene with Cassie. I do like that they are still friends. It's nice to see Evvy, still sad, but facing what she has lost and now looking forward. I loved the line
Quote:
the past back where it belonged once more.
It said so much.

 


#42:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 9:41 pm


Making his way across the inner room at White's, pausing only briefly to exchange greetings with a couple of people along the way, Edgar headed for a table on the far side, flung his briefcase and jacket on a spare seat and threw himself down in a chair opposite his friend. Paul looked up from his copy of The Times, an eyebrow raised at this rather dramatic entrance, and pushed a tumbler of whiskey across the table towards him.

“Good day so far?” he asked sweetly, grinning at the look that Edgar threw him in return.

“Bad week so far!” that gentleman shot back, drinking down a gulp of whiskey and giving a huge sigh.

Edgar’s initial reaction to Amelia’s words the previous weekend had been one of anger and denial, and relations had been decidedly frosty between them ever since. However, what she had said stuck with him and he had begun to watch Tamara more closely. By the end of the weekend he was convinced that his stepmother had been right. The problem now was how to get out of the situation that he had got himself into. He wasn’t due to see Tamara again until the Saturday coming, and he had no idea what he was going to say.

“How did I get myself into this mess in first place?” Paul regarded him with a wry smile.

“Because you’re an idiot, that’s why.”

“Charming!”

“Seriously, Edgar, I despair of you sometimes. For such an intelligent man you can be none too bright on occasion.”

Edgar grimaced. “Kind of you to say so, I’m sure! And I’d like to point out that your insults don’t help me to get out of this. How am I supposed to break the engagement I’d like to ask? Have you any idea how much this could hurt her?”

“Just tell her, for pete’s sake!” Paul returned, giving his friend an exasperated look. “What’s more important not hurting her feelings or not having your family as upset as they are? You’re far too nice for your own good, Edgar. You’re easy prey for someone like Tamara, and she knows it. Do yourself a favour and just get rid of her.”

“Okay, okay, you’re right, I know. I’ll tell her this weekend. I promise!” he added as Paul raised his eyebrows at him. “It’ll be such a weight off my mind, I can't tell you. I just hope Amelia can forgive me that’s all. I behaved pretty horrendously towards her last weekend.”

“She will as long as you apologise, you know that. She’ll just be glad to see the back of the old boot!”

Edgar laughed at this description of his fiancée and took another sip of his whiskey. “Very true. So anyway, how are you two? I’ve not spoken to either of you in a couple of weeks, other than about Tamara of course.”

“Well, we have some news for you as it happens,” Paul replied, a huge grin creeping across his face. “Elsie’s pregnant!”

“Oh, Paul, that’s fantastic news!” Edgar sat bolt upright in his seat, slopping his drink down his tie as he did so. Hastily dabbing it dry with his handkerchief, he looked up at his friend with a smile. “Congratulations! So when’s she due?”

“End of October. Don’t give me the ‘why didn’t we tell you’ look,” he added as Edgar did the maths in his head and realised she was already over three months pregnant. “We’ve not seen you for a few months remember? You’ve been somewhat otherwise engaged, so to speak!”

“Gosh, has it really been that long? I’m so sorry! How’s Elsie anyway? Is she doing okay?”

“She’s very well, thank you, and we’re both over the moon at the news. Thomas is nearly four now it’s been so long we were starting to think he’d be an only child, and we did so want one more.”

“Oh Paul, I’m so pleased for you both. It’s such terrific news.” He shook his friend’s hand and indicated to a waiter for two more whiskeys to be brought over. “Are you needed urgently back in the office this afternoon?” Then, as Paul shook his head, “Excellent! Then drinks are on me!”

Paul laughed and sat back in his chair. “Well, I certainly won’t refuse if you’re offering! And you must come and see us weekend after next, all of you. It really has been far too long.”

“With pleasure!” Edgar replied with a grin, and he raised his glass in a toast, Tamara forgotten for the rest of the afternoon.


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:38 pm; edited 3 times in total

 


#43:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 9:45 pm


Hurrah for Paul and Elsie! Hurrah for Edgar realising what he has to do! Hurrah for the children! Um...hurrah for Evvy as well!

 


#44:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 9:47 pm


Aawww that was lovely, thank you Josie. I'm glad Edgar has seen sense and its good to hear Paul and Elsie's good news Very Happy Thank you

 


#45:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 10:14 pm


Great!
Quote:
"For such an intelligent man you can be none too bright on occasion.”
Says it all! Wink

 


#46:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 10:16 pm


Thanks for the update, looking forward to learning more about Evvy and Richard!

 


#47:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 11:38 pm


Awww!!! Bless!! So pleased for Paul and Elsie! Thanks Jo!

 


#48:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 11:43 pm


Looking forward to more Evvy and Riachard - hope she doesn't get too hurt again. Also looking forward to seeing Edgar telling Tamara where she gets off!

 


#49:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 12:51 am


Thanks, Josie! Glad Edgar's seen the light, and that Evvy's able to talk about things finally. A bit worried about the Richard situation though .... and thoroughly befuddled by the swans and fans and napkins.

 


#50:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:41 am


Awww, really pleased for Elsie and Paul, and yay for Edgar for FINALLY seeing sense!

 


#51:  Author: Helen CLocation: Sheffield/Luton PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 10:19 am


Thanks Josie. Really glad for Paul and Elsie and thank goodness Edgar has seen sense about Tamara. Very Happy

Last edited by Helen C on Wed Jan 19, 2005 11:14 am; edited 1 time in total

 


#52:  Author: DawnLocation: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 11:11 am


Kathy_S wrote:
and thoroughly befuddled by the swans and fans and napkins.
Suspect this is Evvy working out what shape the napkins/serviettes should be folded into for the posh dinner So good to see that Edgar has seen sense! Now when's he going to meet Evvy?

 


#53:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 11:56 am


Dawn wrote:
Now when's he going to meet Evvy?


Soon, I promise! One more year to go in EBD's timeline... Kathy - Dawn's right, swans and fans are napkin origami for posh do's!! Laughing And have a little faith in Richard, people! Do you not think the man's aware that Corney would string him up from his dangly bits if he hurt Evvy?!! Wink

Evadne and Richard walked across Boston common, hand in hand, chatting idly. They had spent an enjoyable evening dining with Mike and Cornelia at the Union Oyster House, and had turned down the offer to join the other two in a cab, deciding instead to take advantage of a balmy spring night to stroll back through the city towards the van Alden’s Beacon Hill home. Evadne was due to return to New York the next day and it would be the last time they would see each other in a while.

As they left the common, crossing the main road and heading up Walnut Street, Richard finally got up the courage to bring up a subject that had been on his mind all evening.

“So, I got a piece of good news this week,” he began, trying to sound as light-hearted as possible.

“Oh? What’s that?” “You know how much I hate working up at the courthouse?” Evvy nodded, beginning to get an inkling as to where the conversation was going. Richard was a lawyer specializing in corporate law, and he currently worked in the county prosecutor’s office, a job that he detested and spent most of his time gainfully occupied in trying to get out of. “Well, now I don’t have to work there anymore! I’ve been offered a new job and I’ve accepted.”

“Oh Richard, that’s fantastic!” Evadne squeezed his arm and turned her head, reaching up to peck him on the cheek. “So where is it? When do you start?”

“Well, I don’t actually officially start ‘til the end of the month, but the courthouse have agreed that I can finish up end of next week, so I’ll be heading out almost immediately after that.”

“Heading out? Heading out where? What job is it exactly?”

Richard paused, looking down at her out of the corner of his eye. This was the bit he didn’t really want to say. “Um, well, it’s with one of the studios out in Hollywood MGM to be exact. So, guess I’m heading out to sunny California!” He was trying his best to sound cheery and failing dismally. “What do you think of that?”

Evadne was silent for a moment while she tried to take this in. “Wow! That’s…that’s great! California, eh? That’s…that’s a really long way away,” her voice sounded flat as she spoke, and he saw her face fall as the reality of it sunk in. “Guess we’re not going to be seeing so much of each other then.”

Richard slipped an arm around her shoulders and pulled her towards him, “I know, baby, I’m sorry. It’s just too good an opportunity for me to turn down.” He stopped walking and turned her round to face him, looking down into her eyes. “You know, Evvy, if I thought there was any chance of this really turning into something then I’d ask you to come with me, but there isn’t is there?”

She gave him with an apologetic smile and looked down, shaking her head. “I’m really sorry, Richard. I am really fond of you, you know that, it’s just…”

“I know,” he pulled her towards him and kissed the top of her head. “I’ve known it all along. Just thought I’d ask, that’s all.”

“Well is there really any chance on your part either? Be honest…”

“No, probably not. I’m not really the commitment type, as you know. Not yet anyhow.”

Evadne slipped her arms around his waist and looked up at him with a smile. “It has been a lot of fun though. Just what I needed in fact.”

“Yes, it certainly has been fun.” He ran his hand through her fair curls, bending his head to kiss her. Then pulling back, he looked down at her face. “What kind of fool am I, not putting up a bigger fight to keep you, eh?” he said with a wry chuckle.

“Well, no more of a fool than I am for letting you go!”

Richard smiled and ran his hand through her hair again. “You’re a very special girl, Evvy Lannis. If the right one does come along, let him in, won’t you.”

“Same goes for you, Richard van Alden.” He grinned and kissed her on the forehead, taking her hand again, “Come on, we’d better get you back before Corney sends out the search parties thinking we’ve eloped! In fact, maybe we should. Can you imagine? She’d never forgive us!” and laughing, they turned to continue their walk up the hill.


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:59 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#54:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 12:14 pm


Awwww, yes I know that she gets a happily ever after ending with Edgar, but still!!! Jo, if I ask *reeeeeeaaaaaaaalllllly* nicely will Richard get a happily ever after ending too please? *idly wondering what Jo has stored up in her brain for the next year*

 


#55:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 12:59 pm


aw, lovely if only all break-ups could be so amicable *sigh* I get the feeling tamara won't take it quite so well though... Smile

 


#56:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 5:11 pm


Lovely! Thank you Jo! But I think Robin's right about Tamara!

 


#57:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 5:16 pm


I'm really looking forward to Edgar dumping Tamara!

 


#58:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 5:33 pm


I think Robin said it all, there!Glad Evvy didn't have a big heartbreaking experience.*Sends spine stiffener to Edgar*Thanks Jo

 


#59:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 10:11 pm


Have a feeling that Tamara will be rather difficult to get rid of... Thanks for the lovely updates Josie.

 


#60:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 10:36 pm


Amelia looked at Edgar with a smile and shook her head. “Don’t be such a fool, of course I can forgive you. What did you think I was going to do? Walk around refusing to talk to you for the rest of my days?”

“Well, no, of course not. But I was uncommonly rude to you last weekend.”

“You were uncommonly stupid last weekend, I can say that much for you!”

Edgar frowned. “Paul said something similar the other day. I’ll start getting a complex at the rate you’re all going!”

“Yes, well Paul’s a very wise man. So what are you going to do now?”

“Go and tell her I suppose,” he said with a sigh. “Have to say, I am really not looking forward to doing this. I feel like a prize cad.”

“I wouldn’t worry too much if I were you, Edgar. I don’t think she’ll be hurt much beyond her pride and her potential future bank balance. Where is she?”

“Upstairs reading. She has a headache apparently,” he replied, rolling his eyes. “Oh well, better go and get it over with I suppose,” and standing up, he smiled at Amelia’s wishes of luck, and left the room.

As he headed up the stairs, trying to formulate his opening lines in his head as he went, his thoughts were interrupted by a piercing scream from the nursery followed by the sound of Ned’s raised voice. Taking the stairs two at time, Edgar arrived at the door just in time to hear Tamara screech, “When I’m your mother, you’ll have to obey me whether you like it or not, you horrible child! The sooner you brats are sent away to school the better, as far as I’m concerned.”

Momentarily stunned at her outburst, Edgar quickly surveyed the scene, seeing Ned, his hands on his hips and his little face screwed up in anger, standing protectively in front of a crying Thea who was clutching the left hand side of her face. Tamara stood over them, Thea’s tin whistle in her hand and a manic look sullying her normally attractive features.

“What the..?”

“Daddy!” At the sound of his father’s voice, Ned came running over to Edgar, who bent down to meet him. “Daddy, please, she can’t be our new mummy, she can’t!” he cried, tears springing to his eyes now that his father was here to help. “Daddy, she smacked Thea and shouted and, and…” The little boy was working himself up into a fit and Edgar hurried to calm him down.

“Shhh! Ned, listen to me.” Taking him by the shoulders he looked his son in the eyes. “You go and give Thea a hug, make her better. Can you do that?” He nodded. “Good boy. I’ll be back in a minute, okay?” and as Ned ran back over to his sister and threw his arms around her in a cuddle, Edgar stood up, his face grim and anger flashing in his eyes.

“A word please, Tamara,” and turning, he exited the room, leaving Tamara no choice but to follow him out into the corridor.

Saying nothing, Edgar held his hand out towards her and Tamara handed over the whistle, all the time thinking frantically about what she could possibly say to get out of this one. Edgar looked at her for a moment, disgust written all over his face.

“I suggest you pack your things and leave immediately.” He spoke quietly, but his tone was one of controlled fury and she could see that he was struggling to keep his temper under control.

Touching him on the arm, Tamara gave a flirtatious laugh and tossed her hair over her shoulder. “Oh Edgar, really, you surely don’t believe him do you? You know what little children are like, exaggerating and…”

“My son doesn’t lie, Tamara.”

His tone brought Tamara up short, and she began to see her dream of being Lady Watson slipping away. Changing tack, she looked up at him with pleading eyes, “Edgar, darling, surely we can work this out. I love you…”

Edgar threw her hand off his arm and looked down at her. “No you don’t, you love my title and my money.” He stared her straight in the face, no longer feeling guilty about what he had to say. “And I don’t love you either, I never did I should never have let things get this far. In fact, I was on my way to tell you just that, before I heard what went on in the nursery. Perhaps I should have listened to my children a lot sooner – sometimes they’re far wiser than me. I’m only glad I came to my senses now before you did my family any serious damage.” Looking at her stunned face, he felt a wave of repulsion rush through his body. “I can’t believe I was such a fool.”

The reality of the situation was beginning to sink in, and realising that the battle was lost, Tamara’s face contorted in fury as she worked herself up in to a rage. “You’re a bigger fool than you know, Sir Edgar Watson. I could have done a lot for you. I know all the right people, and I can make your life such a misery you won’t know what’s hit you. You’ll be sorry!”

She spat out the last words in a high-pitched voice, and she sounded so ridiculous that Edgar almost laughed. “Somehow I don’t think I will.”

“And another thing, you’re not having the ring back.”

“I couldn’t care less, keep it. Just get out of my house.”

She shoved passed him, tears appearing in her eyes, and not bothering to give her a second glance, Edgar walked back into the nursery and put his arms out to Thea who came running over, her face still stained with her tears, to be picked up and cuddled by her father. Looking at her face, he could see the red handprint on her cheek, and felt a horrible pang of guilt as he gently kissed the tender area.

“Thea, darling, I’m so sorry. I should never have let her do this to you. Does it hurt terribly much?”

The little girl shook her head and returned her father’s kiss. “’S’okay Daddy, s’better now.” Her voice still shook with the intensity of her outburst, and Edgar held her tightly to him.

Ned walked over, holding Marcia by the hand, and stood in front of him. “Daddy, is she gone forever?”

“Don’t worry son, she won’t be coming back.” Bending down, Edgar lifted Marcia onto his other knee and looked Ned in the face. “It’ll just be us from now on, I promise you.”

“And Granny ‘Melia?”

He laughed at Marcia’s words, and kissed her on the nose. “Yes, darling, and Granny Amelia too.”


This isn't the last we'll see of the double-barrelled woman from hell (thanks for that one Patmac Wink ) but at least he's rid of her for now...


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 11:09 pm; edited 3 times in total

 


#61:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 10:42 pm


Yay!!! She cooked her own goose there!!!

 


#62:  Author: Catherine_BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 10:46 pm


Ha!!!!! Feeling very vindictively glad!!!!

 


#63:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 10:48 pm


Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr to Tamara, what a horrid bitch. Im glad she has gone but I bet she'll try to make trouble!!!Thanks Jo Very Happy

 


#64:  Author: MarianneLocation: Lancaster PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 10:59 pm


evil evil tamara!

 


#65:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 11:00 pm


Oooooh! Will she come up against Evvy at some time in the future? Twisted Evil Thanks Josie.

 


#66:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 11:13 pm


*smacks tamara double-barrelled* not that in any way i condone violence but the woman deserves it!

 


#67:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 1:58 am


sticks out one elegantly shod foot as Tamara goes past and trips her over. Tamara goes headfirst down stairs and chips a nail.

 


#68:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 5:51 am


Great exit for the terrible Tamara! Twisted Evil Also nice to see that Evvy won't ache over Richard.(still bemused by the concept of swan-shaped napkins -- sounds even stranger than folding 'em up fancy and stuffing 'em in the water glasses)

 


#69:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 7:28 am


I looked quickly on google but didn't find swan folded napkins, but follow this link to see some elaborately folded napkins: http://www.butlersguild.com/guests/napkin_folding/index_napkin_folding.html I expect Tamara would have liked them... Mad Thank goodness Edgar came to his senses!

 


#70:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 7:46 am


What a lovely start to my day! Thank you Josie. *Waves cheerily through the window at the departing Tamara* I also chuckled at Miss Di's
Quote:
elegantly shod foot
Feeling sorry for Kathy who never learned to starch and fold linen napkins at school - such a useful skill! My mother had to go and buy one for me to take for the lesson. I now wonder how many mothers had to do the same.

 


#71:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 9:15 am


Thanks Josie! I do hope Evvy has a go at Tamara some time in this drabble! Very Happy

 


#72:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 9:55 am


*hisses as evil Tamara sweeps out* Thanks Jo!

 


#73:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 10:10 am


yay, the witch has gone!glad edgar saw her for what she really was.thanks Jo

 


#74:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 2:47 pm


Quote:
Oooooh! Will she come up against Evvy at some time in the future? Twisted Evil


Oh, once or twice I think... Wink

ETA: Kathye - you're supposed to gloat before the post not after it!!! Rolling Eyes Wink


“Elsie! Elsie Carr…er, Rodwell! Sorry!” Elsie grinned at fair-curled woman waving madly across the restaurant from a table in the corner. Some disdainful looks were cast their way from the other diners, and a dark-haired woman at one table cast a malicious glance in Elsie’s direction, but they couldn’t have cared less. It had been so long since they had seen each other that they were far from interested in anybody else.

Making her way towards the table, Elsie was met halfway by Evadne, who enveloped her in a bear hug. “Oh Elsie, it’s so great to see you! It’s been an absolute age.” Pulling back, Evvy looked her friend up and down. “You look incredible. How’re you feeling?”

Elsie laughed, “I’m very fit thank you, though I think this’ll be the last of this kind of journey I make for a while. Fighting my way down Piccadilly seven months pregnant is not a treat I care to repeat!” She squeezed Evadne’s hand and gave her fond smile. “It’s so good to see you too, Evvy.”

“Come along, let’s get you sat down and off those feet of yours. Lonny’s pouring you a cold glass of water, you’ll feel refreshed in no time,” and taking Elsie by the elbow, Evadne led her towards the table where a distinctly Eastern European-looking woman, hair bobbed at her shoulders, was sitting laughing at the pair of them. She rose to her feet as they reached her, leaning forward to kiss Elsie on the cheek.

“We were beginning to think you’d got lost!”Elsie grinned. “Sorry about that. Paul was being a complete woman, flapping about trying to find things that he hadn’t organised the night before, so we were late leaving home, and then the traffic was murder. How’re Reon and Maria, Lonny?”

“Very well, thanks. Maria’s growing like crazy – she seems to outgrow her clothes on a daily basis!” Ilonka Barkocz, as she had been in her days at the Chalet School, had married a South African diplomat, Reon van Zyl, and along with their year-old daughter Maria they now made their home in the Hertfordshire town of St Albans, just north of London. She pulled out the chair next to her and patted the seat. “Here you go, Elsie, have a seat.”

Thirty minutes later, they were tucking in to their starters and Elsie was questioning Evadne on her reasons for being in England.

“It’s Poppa’s doing really. I’ve been visiting the daughter of an old business contact of his from before the war. The man died last year, and his daughter’s been left all alone with two small kiddies her husband was killed in France in ’44. Pops met her by chance last time he was over here and found out she hardly has two dimes to rub together. The poor girl’s been real ill, she goes without food herself quite often to make sure the kids get enough. Poppa talked it over with me and we both decided we really wanted to help her, but he was worried she’d think we were offering charity and wouldn’t accept. So I offered to come over and meet her, see if I could persuade her it was the right thing to do.” She paused to take a mouthful of her salad before continuing, “It took a while, but think I’ve convinced her. Pops is buying a house in Kensington, and she’s going to move into it, work as the housekeeper. That way she’s working for her money and board, so she feels more comfortable with it all. So now I’m hunting for a house for us. We want to buy quick as we can, as Betty won’t accept anything from us ‘til she can work for it.”

Lonny opened her mouth to say something, then thought better of it, realising Evadne would be embarrassed if she made mention of the Lannis’ generosity. Instead, she decided to move the conversation on. “So are you heading back to the States once you’ve bought then? Don’t you have that job to get back to?”

Evadne shook her head. “Nope. I quit that just after Labor Day, so I’m footloose and fancy free again, as they say. I’m thinking of coming over to Paris for keeps actually. I miss Poppa heaps, and it’ll be so good to be near England again. I’ll get to see so much more of you people too.”

“But won’t you miss New York and all your friends? And what about Corney?”

“Well yes, I will of course, but they can afford to come here on vacation far more than you two can come there, and it’ll give Corney a grand excuse to drag Mike over this way, she’s been talking about it for long enough. Oh, that reminds me!” Picking up her bag, she rummaged around and pulled out a thick envelope, handing it across the table. “Pictures from Corney’s wedding.”

The others fell on them with glee, and were busy exclaiming over Corney’s dress when Elsie felt a tap on her shoulder and looked up to see Tamara Truman-Davies standing over her.

“Hello Elsie. Surprised to see you somewhere like this. Didn’t think it was in your, er, budget.” Tamara had a nasty sneer on her face as she spoke, and Evadne and Ilonka’s mouths fell open in shock at the way she spoke to their friend.

“What do you want, Tamara? I’m busy as you can see, so if you’ve got something to say, make it quick.”

Tamara glared at her and curled her lip. “You can let your friend know that I’m engaged again, so he’s missed his chance. And make sure you tell him I haven’t forgotten what he did, I’ve a long memory.”

“I’m sure he’ll be very happy for you, Tamara,” Elsie replied, rolling her eyes at Evvy as she spoke, “Make sure you pass on my commiserations to your new fiancé, won’t you,” but Tamara had flounced back to her table and missed the end of Elsie’s speech.

“Who was she?” “What an ignorant pig!”

Elsie laughed at her friends’ reactions and shook her head. “She was engaged to a friend of mine and Paul’s he broke it off when he realised what a ghastly old bag she was. He caught her hitting one of his children. Still amazes me what he was thinking being with her in the first place!"

"What did she mean about not being in your budget? Is everything okay, Elsie?" Evadne looked at her friend in concern.

Elsie laughed. "Everything's fine, don't worry. She knows that Paul and I don't have as much money as she does, she's just trying to put me down that's all. Where are you going?” she added, as Evvy stood up, drink in hand.“

Oh, just stretching my legs,” Evadne winked and walked across the room, the other two staring after her with a mixture of anxiety and curiosity. They watched as she made her way between the tables towards where Tamara was sitting, and just as she approached that lady she appeared to trip and tipped her glass of wine right over Tamara’s shoulder and into her lap. Uttering an unintelligible shriek, Tamara jumped to her feet, and Elsie and Ilonka looked on, consumed with laughter, as Evvy stammered her apologies and with an eventual promise to pay the cleaning bill, made her way back to the table again while Tamara stormed out of the restaurant, her companion following in her wake.

“I can’t believe you just did that!” Elsie wiped away her tears of mirth as she spoke, and Evadne sat down again, a mischievous grin lighting up her face.“

Serves her right! Nobody talks to a friend of mine like that and gets away with it! Consider it a little payback for your friend too, Elsie.” She thanked the waiter as he refilled her glass. “Poor guy, he’s certainly better off alone than with a pig like her!”

“Oh that’s for sure. It’s hard for him though,” Elsie looked thoughtful as she spoke, “I think he gets pretty lonely sometimes. His wife died three years ago, and I think he still misses her badly.”

Evvy’s eyes softened as she listened to her friend’s words, and she gave her a slightly sad smile before she replied. “Believe me Elsie, however much he’s hurting, he’s not gonna be happy with second best, not when he’s had the real thing. If he can’t truly fall in love again, he’s better off alone.” There was silence for a moment as the other two looked at her, not sure what to say. Seeing this, Evvy grinned at them, “Anyhow, enough of all that. Lonny, when do I get to meet Reon and Maria then?” and as Lonny replied, Elsie gave Evadne a thoughtful look, an idea forming in the back of her mind.


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 11:16 pm; edited 5 times in total

 


#75:  Author: KathyeLocation: Laleham PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 2:57 pm


Oohhhh the next bits good. *g* Twisted Evil Well I have to remember to gloat sometimes Rolling Eyes

 


#76:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 4:26 pm


well done Evvy!!! hope tamara realised it was deliberate! thanks Jo

 


#77:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 4:49 pm


Laughing Good for Evvy!

 


#78:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 5:44 pm


Lovely to see Lonny again. I loved the way Evvy dealt with Tamara. Elsie, the matchmaker? Great as always, Josie!

 


#79:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans/Leicester PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 6:29 pm


Good for Edgar finally getting rid of that b***h! I couldn't believe she actually hit Thea, or what she said to Elsie (and go Evvy for getting her back!) How stupidly happy was I to imagine Lonny and her family are living in my hometown... Very HappyVery HappyVery Happy Thanks Josie.

 


#80:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 8:04 pm


Grin! Go Evvy!!!!!! Methinks Elsie is planning on a spot of matchmaking........ Wink

 


#81:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 8:51 pm


Nice one Evvy! And of course Tamara will be so happy when Evvy and Edgar get together! Twisted Evil Thanks Josie.

 


#82:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 9:35 pm


Hurrah for Evvy! poke Tamara. Thanks Jo!

 


#83:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 9:58 pm


Go Evvy. And can I just say thank you to Tamara for being so utterly stupid to hit Thea and thus making it a lot easier for Edgar to give her the shove, so considerate, now he won't feel guilty about it. Nice to see Lonny again. JackieJ

 


#84:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 12:54 am


Thank goodness Edgar heard what he did so he had no doubts about Tamara. Elsie Lonny and Evvy were lovely together. Go for it Elsie - but introduce them slowly and gently.

 


#85:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 2:23 am


patmac wrote:
Feeling sorry for Kathy who never learned to starch and fold linen napkins at school - such a useful skill! My mother had to go and buy one for me to take for the lesson. I now wonder how many mothers had to do the same.
Pat, do you mean to say you don't use linen napkins at every meal? Shocked You don't wipe your mouth on your sleeve and your hands on your jeans do you? Evil or Very Mad (mind you we only use 'em because they're more 'green' than paper serviettes and Matt is a bit of a fanatic that way. And I certainly don't starch and fold them into origami!) Looking forward to Evvy and Edgar finally meeting up.

 


#86:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 2:58 am


patmac wrote:
I also chuckled at Miss Di's
Quote:
elegantly shod foot
So did I, patmac! - having been a guest in Di's gracious home (which it is - lovely solid old building, terrific views, nice big windows, and lots and lots of BOOKS!)...Love the wine on Tamara - how stupid is she! Take it gently, Elsie!

 


#87:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 3:01 am


I was wearing shoes! At least, I was when we went out for dinner. Before and after, no comment.

 


#88:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 3:32 am


I never said you weren't! I just chuckled at the adjective you used (mind you I can't talk!)...

 


#89:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 4:00 am


Go, Evvy! And great seeing Lonny again. (would definitely need to invest in a token cloth napkin before trying these fascinating directions as they're meant to be used . Unless a Girl Scout bandana would do, given enough starch. Oops, wait a minute, no starch either...)

 


#90:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 11:37 am


Remembering the jobs of folding hundreds of napkins - always made more interesting by the fact they never seemed to square them before adding the starch! Shrimps are quite fun to make! Thank you Jo. Love Evvy's 'trip'! Look forward to her first meeting with Edgar!

 


#91:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 11:50 am


Miss Di wrote:
You don't wipe your mouth on your sleeve and your hands on your jeans do you? Evil or Very Mad
Nah! corner of the tablecloth does for me Twisted Evil

 


#92:  Author: Rachael PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 1:13 pm


Wow! Shocked I've just spent far longer than I should just catching up on this one drabble! Embarassed Absolutely fantastic, Josie - twisting and turning between heart-wrenching and heart-warming ... Beau Chutney Laughing Fabulous!! Did he look like a "Beau Chutney"?? The scenes with the children are just superb - I love Ned to bits Very Happy Especially the way he saw through Tamara wotsits! Had a tear in my eye when Corney threw her bouquet to Evvy and looovved all the Mike/Corney scenes - sooo appropriate Presumably we're working up to a meeting between Edgar and Evvy (go Elsie!!) so I look forward to more soon ...

 


#93:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 3:37 pm


I can't believe we're discussing the starching and folding of linen table-napkins. Doing that cuts down on valuable CBB time. Get your priorities right girls!

 


#94:  Author: Catherine_BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 4:22 pm


Yay yay yay! Gooooo Elsie! I´ve been looking forward to this bit through all the trauma!) (and HAH! to evil Tamara getting her comeuppance Twisted Evil )

 


#95:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 6:53 pm


“Didn’t”

“Did”

“Didn’t”

“Did”

“Right, that’s enough! Stop that now, the pair of you! I don’t care who started it,” as Thea opened her mouth to protest, “if you can’t behave properly then I’m taking you home, and you’ll not be allowed out anywhere again. This is a churchyard, not a playground. If Marcia can behave herself, then so can you two. I mean it, Ned!” About to stick his tongue out at his sister, Ned stopped and thought better of it as he saw the look in his father’s eye. “How about you run along with your flowers and we’ll catch up, okay?”

Thankful to get off so lightly, Ned nodded and ran on ahead, and Edgar reached down and grabbed hold of Thea’s free hand before she could follow her brother.

Today was the third anniversary of Madeleine’s death. In the two years since their move to Wiltshire, Edgar had frequently taken Ned to visit his mother’s grave, finding that it helped the young boy to come to terms with his mother’s absence. When Ned had informed his sisters where he would be going today, they had clamoured to come along too, and after some consideration Edgar had decided that it was not such a bad idea. Neither girl had any real memories of their mother, and the idea of her death did not upset them, but Edgar was keen for them to know all they could about her and he thought that this visit might help them understand a little more.

Now, as he bent down to take Marcia’s flowers out of her hand before they lost all their petals from being dragged along the ground, Thea suddenly stopped and looked around her.

“Daddy, is Mummy in heaven with all these other people?” she asked, staring at the gravestones that filled the churchyard.

Edgar looked down at her with a smile. “Yes, that’s right.”

She glanced around again, then looked up at her father with a satisfied expression on her face, “Mummy must have lots of friends.”

Crouching down, Edgar ran his hand over her dark, bobbed hair. “Yes, darling, she has.” He was just about to point out a few of the different names to her, when out of the corner of his eye he caught sight of Marcia standing in front of a nearby grave pulling the flowers out of the holder.

“Marcia!” The little girl looked up at her name, just as Edgar came quickly across to where she stood. “What do you think you’re doing?” he asked, taking the flowers out of her hand.

“Gettin' more flowers.”

“You can’t take them from other people’s graves, sweetheart. Their families have brought them just like we’ve brought some for Mummy. They’d be very sad if you took them away. Do you understand?” She thought about it for a second, then nodded, and Edgar put the flowers back in the holder and stood up, lifting her into his arms. “How about we go and give Mummy the flowers we brought for her. Come along Thea.” He took hold of Thea’s hand again, and the three of them walked across to where Ned was already putting his flowers into the holders. Edgar set Marcia on the ground, handing her bunch of asters back to her, and then sat down in front of his wife’s grave and watched with a smile as his children arranged things to their satisfaction.

After a few minutes, Marcia came and stood in front of him. “Daddy, can Mummy see me?”

“Yes, poppet, she can. She’s up there, see?” Edgar pointed up to the sky as she sat down in his lap.

She looked up and gave a wave. “Hello Mummy, I’m Marcia!” Then, turning back to her father, “Do you think she heard me, Daddy?”

Edgar felt a tug on his heart as she spoke, and chuckling, he put his arms around her and hugged her tight. “Yes, sweetheart. I’m sure she did.”

He was so lost in his thoughts as he cuddled his youngest daughter that he didn’t hear the sound of footsteps coming up behind him, and he jumped considerably at the sound of Reverend Furlong’s voice. “Hello Edgar. I thought I’d see you here today. No, no, don’t get up,” as Edgar made a move to get to his feet. “Brought the whole family I see? I do hope I’m not intruding.”

“Not at all, Reverend. We’ve just brought along a few flowers, haven’t we?”

Reverend Furlong smiled as the children replied. “Well, I just thought I’d pop out and see if there’s some little people who might like some biscuits and a glass of squash? We’ve got some delicious shortbread just waiting to be eaten?”

Thea and Marcia exclaimed loudly at this offer, and pleaded with their father to be allowed to go. Laughing, Edgar gave his permission, and they ran off after the Reverend chattering loudly as they went. Ned stared at his mother’s grave for a while in silence and then came over to stand next to his father.

“I miss her, Daddy.”

Edgar looked at him with a sad smile, and put an arm around his waist. “I know son, so do I.”

Ned fell silent again, then suddenly he turned and wrapped his arms around his father’s neck giving him a hug. Edgar hugged him back, feeling a lump in his throat, and they stayed like that for a few minutes until Ned finally pulled back and looked his father in the face.

“We’ll never leave you, Daddy. You’ll have us for ever and ever,” he added, grinning as he remembered what his father said sometimes when he teased them, “even when you’re old and grey!”

Edgar looked at Ned and burst out laughing, reaching out to tickle his son. “Don’t I know it! I couldn’t get rid of you if I tried, could I?”

Giggling, Ned wriggled out of his father’s grip and pulled a face at him, “No, never!”

Giving an exaggerated sigh of resignation that caused his son to giggle again, Edgar rolled his eyes, “Well, I suppose I’m stuck with you then, aren’t I? In that case, how about you and I go and find out what your sisters are up to.”

“Oh yes,” Ned looked at his father and nodded, a serious expression on his face, “it’s bound to be something naughty!”

Edgar laughed again, “Oh, I think you’re probably right!” and getting to his feet, he cast a last fleeting look at his wife’s grave, then taking his son’s hand in his, they walked off in the direction of the church.


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 11:21 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#96:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 7:02 pm


Lovely! Thanks Josie!

 


#97:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 7:24 pm


Thank you Josie, Ned is sooooooooo lovely!!! Hurry up and let Edgar and Evvy meet peeeeeeeeaaaasssssssssss!!

 


#98:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 7:48 pm


Thank you Josie, that was perfect.

 


#99:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 7:55 pm


That was beautiful - I love the idea of Marcia waving to her mummy

 


#100:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 8:03 pm


That was lovely. Tugged my heartstrings to think of Marcia waving to Mummy. Poor Ned, missing her and dear Edgar (notice he's 'dear Edgar' now he's come to his senses again) being such a nice father. Thank you Josie. Every post has me teary or giggly and sometimes both.

 


#101:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 8:25 pm


Awwwwwwwww! Thanks Jo, that was lovely!

 


#102:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 8:45 pm


*sniffle* Thank you Jo!!! Beautiful post!

 


#103:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 9:18 pm


that was such a lovely post i'm glad edgar and ned have bonded again.....and i love ned's comment that the girls will be up to something naughty!!!

 


#104:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 10:40 pm


That was lovely Josie, thank you. I giggle at Ned though, he seems to be becoming a little elderly. JackieJ

 


#105:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 2:53 am


That's so great, Josie! Love the children visiting their mummy, and that she must have lots of friends!

 


#106:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 10:33 am


Elsie watched her husband as he sat doing the Times crossword, a somewhat irked expression on her face. “I can’t see why, of all the weeks, he had to pick this one to go to Paris.”

Paul looked up from his paper, a bemused expression on his face, “He’s not exactly gone for fun, you know. There are some conferences and important dinners and things he has to go to for work. Anyway, why do you care so much whether Edgar’s here or not? It’s hardly as if he knows any of the others, and we see him often enough as it is.”

“I just thought it would be fun, that’s all.”

“I’m sure it’ll be just as much fun without him. What time are they getting here anyway?”

Elsie looked at her watch. “Any time now. Evvy got in a couple of hours ago, and she was going to wait at the airport 'til their plane arrived, then they were catching a taxi so they shouldn’t be too much longer.” She returned to staring out of the window. “I am disappointed in Edgar. I’ll tell him so when I next see him too.”

“You do that, dear.” Still perplexed by his wife’s discontent, Paul shook his head and returned to his crossword, not giving Edgar another thought. A minute later, Elsie gave a shriek that he took to mean that their guests had arrived, and tore out of the room at top speed.

Cornelia opened the car door, and had barely managed to stand up when Elsie came flying across the driveway and launched herself on her friend with a hug that almost sent that lady back inside the car again.

“Corney! You’re really here, I can’t believe it! Oh, it’s been so long!”

Returning her hug, Cornelia laughed and pulled back as Elsie wiped tears from her eyes. Though the two women had kept in frequent contact by letter, they had not seen each other since Elsie had left the Chalet School twelve years previously, so their excitement at their reunion was to be expected.

“Guess you thought we’d never see each other again! I know it crossed my mind,” Cornelia grinned broadly as she looked her friend up and down. “Say, you don’t look a day older than when you left school!”

“Well nor do you! Oh, this is so exciting!” Elsie gave her another brief hug. “ And I still can’t believe you’re actually married! Where’s this unsuspecting chap you managed to get to take you on then?”

“Unsuspecting indeed! He knew very well what I was like, thank you, and he‘s no better himself, so it’s all worked out just fine and dandy!” and Corney dragged her over to where her husband was being introduced to Paul. “Mike, this is Elsie, who you’ve heard all about already. Elsie, this is my husband, Michael van Alden.”

Mike turned round with a grin and held out his hand. “Pleasure to meet you at last. Corney’s told me all about you of course,” he said with a twinkle in his eye.

“I bet she has,” Elsie grimaced at her friend. “Very glad to have you here, Mike. Corney this is Paul, my husband who’s certainly heard all about you! Evvy, how are you?” she turned to kiss Evadne on the cheek leaving her husband to get acquainted with their visitors. “Come on everybody, let’s get inside, then you can relax and we can all catch up properly!” and slipping her hand through Cornelia’s arm, she led the way into the house.

An hour later, they were all sitting chatting in the Rodwells’ front room. Elsie and Paul’s two children had joined them, and Cornelia was now sat on the sofa next to her husband, cradling baby Lily in her arms. Evadne watched them with a grin on her face. “I know I’m biased as she is my own goddaughter, but she’s the duckiest baby I’ve ever seen.”

Elsie smiled, “Well, I think so too! Paul’s sister filled in for you at the service by the way, and Biddy sends her love,” she added, referring to Biddy O’Ryan, Lily’s second godmother. “We’ve got the photos around somewhere, I’ll dig them out later.”

“You do realise the bad influence she’s going to have on your child, don’t you Elsie?” Cornelia put in, looking up with a grin.

Evvy grimaced. “I’ll pretend I didn’t hear that! Say, Corney, you look a complete natural sitting there with her, you know.”

Corney gave her husband a quick glance and then looked over at her two friends. “Well, I hope so. I need the practice,” she replied, a faint blush touching her cheeks.

They stared at her for a moment, then both yelled at the same time, Evadne jumping out of her seat to run over and hug her friends. Elsie sat up so quickly she almost overturned Tom, who was sitting in her lap, onto the floor. “Oh Corney, congratulations! You too Mike. Oh, this is so exciting! When’s it due?”

Mike laughed and put an arm around his wife, who leant into him, a beaming smile lighting up her face. “Guess Corney was right, she said you two would go off half cock at the news! The baby’s not due ‘til December, we only just found out ourselves a few weeks ago. That’s why we wanted to make this visit now, so I can get her home again and make sure she looks after herself properly,” he added, dropping a kiss on Cornelia’s head, then he rose to his feet as Paul suggested that they go and raise a glass to celebrate the news, and they left the room leaving the women alone.

“Well, look at us all grown up!” Evadne returned to her seat as she spoke, curling her legs up under her. “Elsie with two, Lonny with one, and now you with one on the way!”

“Just you to go now Evvy!”

Evadne grinned and shook her head. “Corney van Alden, please tell me I don’t need to explain the why’s of this to you, but that ain’t gonna happen short of a miracle! Anyhow, it’s not just me, I didn’t think Margie had any either.”

“Who knows? It’s so long since any of us heard from her she could be married with fifteen for all we know!”

“Can you imagine? Wouldn’t Joey be cross if she was!”

They all laughed at this and Elsie looked over at Evadne with a grin. “Surely we know someone between us that we can introduce her to, Corney.”

“Don’t look at me, I’ve already tried!”

“And don’t either of you try again!” Evadne retorted looking sternly from one to the other. “Poppa’s been bad enough. He’s taken it into his head recently to introduce me to every vaguely eligible bachelor he meets, and some of the results have been none too pretty I can tell you!”

“Oh, we have to hear this!” Elsie got up out of her seat and reached her arms out to take her daughter from Cornelia. “Let me just go and get Lily settled and then you can fill us in! Come on Tom,” and she left the room with her children, returning ten minutes later complete with a new pot of tea, and the three of them settled down to catch up on all the news.


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 11:28 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#107:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 10:44 am


A semi quintette reunion! Yay! Very Happy

 


#108:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 10:56 am


How lovely! And hammer Edgar and Josie for him going to Paris! Laughing

 


#109:  Author: dackelLocation: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 12:29 pm


Lovely, lovely Very Happy Just waiting impatiently for them to meet!

 


#110:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 12:31 pm


Woohoo! This is so great! Almost a Quintette reunion as Cazx said - fantastic! Thank you Josie!

 


#111:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 3:31 pm


Quote:
I didn’t think Margie had any either.” “Who knows? It’s so long since any of us heard from her she could be married with fifteen for all we know!” “Can you imagine? Wouldn’t Joey be cross if she was!”
Laughing Please, someone, take up the challenge & write a drabble about Margia's 15 children & Joey's reaction? Wink

 


#112:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 5:20 pm


That was great Jo! Yay for Corney and Mike! (and like Lyanne, I'd LOVE to read about Margia's 15 kids...... Wink )

 


#113:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 7:44 pm


Lyanne wrote:
Quote:
I didn’t think Margie had any either.” “Who knows? It’s so long since any of us heard from her she could be married with fifteen for all we know!” “Can you imagine? Wouldn’t Joey be cross if she was!”
Laughing Please, someone, take up the challenge & write a drabble about Margia's 15 children & Joey's reaction? Wink
on its way *winifred bit when i read this post*

 


#114:  Author: KathyeLocation: Laleham PostPosted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 8:53 pm


Josie wrote:
Ned stared at his mother’s grave for a while in silence and then came over to stand next to his father. “I miss her, Daddy.” Edgar looked at him with a sad smile, and put an arm around his waist. “I know son, so do I.”
You made me cry again Jo !!!! :crying: poke Jo - Happy posts now please Wink

 


#115:  Author: Helen PLocation: Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 10:33 pm


Yes, Kathye, that part made me weep too - still got wet eyes even now I've read the lovely reunion bit! Thanks Josie - this continues to be superb.

 


#116:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 11:50 pm


As the train pulled out of Paddington Station, Edgar waved goodbye to his son and smiled as he saw the young boy sitting down in his seat, chattering away to his new schoolmates ten to the dozen. Along with dozens of other parents, he watched as the train pulled out of sight, then feeling a tug at his arm he turned to smile at his stepmother, who was stood next to him holding Thea and Marcia’s hands.

“I can’t believe he’s actually gone. Do you think I did the right thing letting him go on the train? Maybe we should have driven him there after all. I…”

“Edgar, will you stop worrying! Ned’s fine, more than happy I’d say. And we agreed to let him go on the train because he wanted to, remember? Harry is with him, and they already seemed to have made more friends before the train even left. If we’d driven him there ourselves, he would have felt like something of an outsider.”

“Oh, I know, it’s just…well, he’s so young!”

“How old were you when you first went?”

“Eight.”

“And did you hate it? Were you miserable?”

“Well, no but…”

“And how old is Ned now?”

“Eight.”

“So what makes you think he’ll be miserable if you weren’t? Tell you what, Edgar, how about we put the worrying on hold and see how he is at the first exeat. It’s only three weeks away if he seems unhappy when we see him then we can reassess, okay?”

Edgar was still not entirely satisfied, but as what Amelia said made perfect sense, he gave up the debate for now. He forced a grin onto his face and Amelia looked at him sympathetically, knowing how hard it had been for him to say goodbye.

When Ned was born, there had never been any question that he would follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, and accordingly, Edgar and Madeleine had entered him for both of Edgar’s old schools, Dragon School prep and Harrow. Ned had finally turned eight in March of this year, and the family had begun preparing for him to go off to school in the September. Uniforms had been ordered and received, books had been bought and Ned, rather than being reluctant to leave home as could have been expected, was thoroughly excited by the whole prospect of going away. Edgar had made enquiries and discovered that the son of one of his colleagues was due to start at The Dragon School at the same time. The two boys had been introduced, and Harry Pepperell had become Ned’s first firm friend.

As the day of his son’s departure drew closer, it was Edgar who found himself getting worked up at the prospect of Ned going away. His wife’s death had brought him far closer to his children than might otherwise have been the case, and suddenly what had seemed the natural order of things all those years ago didn‘t seem so natural any more. Edgar had wanted to drive his son to the school, to make sure he got there okay and was properly settled in, but Harry was going on the train and Ned had begged and pleaded to join him until his father had given in. So the whole family had packed into the car the previous evening and driven up from Wiltshire to London, right past Oxford where Ned was ultimately to end up, and had spent the night in Edgar’s Belgravia flat. Now they were all at the station, where Ned had greeted his new friend vociferously, said a perfunctory goodbye to his father and family, and dashed off full of excitement about what lay ahead, much to his father’s sadness and chagrin.

Edgar smiled to himself. Actually, now he thought about it, it was exactly what he’d done on his first day all those years ago. Twenty-five years ago to be precise.

“Do you realise it’s twenty five years since Paul and I first went to prep school? Heavens! Makes me feel so old!”

“Since when does thirty-three count as old? Just wait ‘til you get to my grand old age, then see what you’ve got to complain about!”

“Oh, you’re not so old,” Edgar replied with a grin. “Can’t see too much of the fossil about you!”

“Daddy, what’s a fossil?”

“A living thing that’s been preserved in stone, Thea. I’ll take you to the Natural History Museum to see some one day.”

“But Granny’s not made of stone!”

“And that’s why she’s not a fossil!”

“Oh.” Thea fell silent again, and Edgar turned his attention to Marcia who was demanding to know why she couldn’t go on a train and Ned could. Amelia took Thea’s hand and they all turned to leave the platform, walking in the direction of their car. Thea appeared lost in thought as they went along, and she suddenly looked up at Amelia confused.

“Granny, Daddy’s old isn’t he?”

“Yes, darling he is, very old,” Amelia replied, chuckling at the indignation on Edgar’s face.

“And you’re older than Daddy?”

“Erm, well, yes, that’s right.”

“So are you really old then? Are you forty?”

Amelia smiled. “I’m a little bit older than forty, I’m afraid.”

At this Thea’s eyes opened to their widest extent. “Are you a hundred?”

Edgar couldn’t contain himself any longer, and he burst out laughing, clutching his stomach as Amelia glared at him. “Oh, ow…I’m sorry…Oh, that was too funny! Out of the mouth of babes, eh?”

“When you’ve quite finished, shall we go?” and she turned on her heel and stalked off, leaving Edgar to follow behind with the girls, still chuckling as he went.


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 11:32 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#117:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 12:09 am


LOL!!!! Poor Amelia!!! And NORTY Edgar for laughing!!!!

 


#118:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 12:29 am


Ooooh two lovely posts!! The reunion was great, but why did Edgar have to be away!!! *stamps foot* And lol at the children, they are so lovely!!!

 


#119:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 12:30 am


I'm so glad you sent him to the Dragon School! I've always thought it would be a lovely school to be at. I love Thea's
Quote:
“So are you really old then? Are you forty?”
That is just so true to life. Rolling Eyes

 


#120:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 12:43 am


God I feel old now! Laughing Lovely, thanks Josie.

 


#121:  Author: MarianneLocation: Lancaster PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 12:54 am


A brownie, one brownie camp (i was 17, she was 7) asked me my age and i told her. She burst out into hysterical laughter and said, 'your a teenager! your a child! I thought you were an adult, real mummy, like, 50 or 30 or something!' Shocked I remember it well...

 


#122:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 4:36 am


Thanks, Josie. Great set of scenes! Especially enjoyed the reunion interactions, and Edgar’s kids. No distance between 40 and 100, indeed. Laughing Laughing

 


#123:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 9:56 am


Hehe! Laughing

 


#124:  Author: Helen CLocation: Sheffield/Luton PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 11:23 am


Laughing That was great Josie thanks.

 


#125:  Author: nikkieLocation: Cumbria PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 8:48 pm


Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Sounds just like something my kids would say!

 


#126:  Author: KathyeLocation: Laleham PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 9:33 pm


Next bit then please Jo !!

 


#127:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 9:39 pm


I once told my Gran she was a special grandma age she asked what that was "NINETY!" she was sixty-seven

 


#128:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 10:06 pm


Laughing Laughing Laughing Bet you were popular Frances!

 


#129:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 10:13 pm


Standing on the lawn, staring out at a vista dominated by the imposing figure of the Jungfrau, Evadne felt a sense of peace and serenity that she hadn’t known since her schooldays some twelve years ago or more. It wasn’t quite the same, this was not the Austrian Tyrol or the familiar contours of the Tiernjoch, but it was still the Alps and there was a sense of familiarity, of belonging, that she couldn’t quite explain.

“It’s beautiful, isn’t it? Every morning I wake up and have to pinch myself. I can’t quite believe I’m back in the mountains again. It’s not the dear old Tiernsee of course, but it’s the next best thing for now.”

At the sound of Joey’s voice, Evadne turned round and smiled at her host who was making her way across the lawns towards her, a tray containing lemonade and biscuits in her hands. Evadne had arrived at Freudesheim ten days previously, following a summer spent on the Breton coast with her father and friends. Her time so far had been spent with one reunion after another, both with old familiar faces who, like the Maynards, had come out with the school and the san to make their new home on the Gornetz Platz, and also with Frieda, Simone and Marie who at Joey’s invitation had come along to join in the fun. Those three ladies had returned home to their families that morning, and finally Evadne had time to spend time with Joey on her own.

“I’m so glad you decided to stay on Evvy, “Jo said, as if reading her mind, “What with everything going on since you’ve been here, we’ve barely had time to sit down and catch up, and it’s been so long since we last got together. You can’t really count that quick hello/goodbye we had in the summer, though your father was an absolute godsend helping us through customs like that.”

“You know Pops, always happy to help! He’s the best, he really is. I’m sorry I’ve not been in touch that much, Joey. It’s just, what with readjusting and everything, well, you know…”

“I know, Evvy, I never expected anything else. So, tell me, how was your summer in France? Did you have a high old time?”

Evadne looked at her for a minute, then gave a big sigh and sank back in her chair. “Yes and no. Oh don’t get me wrong, it was a lot of fun. It’s just…oh, I don’t know. Everyone seems to want to get me fixed up, settled down with someone. It’s all I heard all summer ‘Any nice young men on the horizon? Any chance of you settling down?’ I know they don’t mean any harm, they just don’t seem to understand it’s not quite that easy…” her voice trailed off and Joey looked at her with sympathetic eyes.

“Has there really been no-one, Evvy?"

Evadne shook her head. “I’m not sure there ever will be. Oh, I’ve dated and stuff, but it’s never going to lead anywhere.” She smiled sadly at Joey, who nodded silently, encouraging her to go on. Evvy looked up at the sky, collecting her thoughts for a minute, then turned back towards her host.

“He was my soulmate, Joey, just like Jack is yours. I can’t imagine anyone ever coming close, and I’m not sure I want anyone to either.” She gave another sigh and sat back, staring straight ahead of her with unfocused eyes, “You know, when we were kids I had no idea it was possible to love anybody that much. Part of me disappeared when he died. I think perhaps it was the part of me that is capable of falling in love.”

She paused for a moment, and Joey opened her mouth to speak, then closed it again, realising she had no idea what to say.

Evvy swallowed hard and continued, “Cassie tried to give me the ring once, you know the one that Ralph wanted me to wear. I think I hurt her when I said no, but I couldn’t take it, Joey.” Talking about what had happened with somebody she knew could understand was giving Evadne a sense of release, and feelings she had kept bottled up for years were now coming tumbling out. “I could never wear his ring and pretend everything’s okay because it’s not. I’m not happy to have been engaged to him, and I never will be, because it’ll never be enough. I wanted to marry him you know, spend the rest of my life with him, have kids with him, grow old with him. That’s what was supposed to happen, Joey, and yet somehow it never did.” Her voice choked slightly as she spoke, and she paused, trying to blink back the tears that were springing up in her eyes. “I just don’t understand why it all got taken away from me.”

Tears escaped down Evadne’s face as she finished speaking, and reaching over, Jo took hold of her hand and held it in her own. She watched her friend wiping her eyes, feeling a mixture of empathy and guilt. She knew only too well the emotions that ran through Evadne’s head, the feelings of abandonment, of loneliness, of a future snatched away. The difference was that Joey had had that future returned to her, the day Jack had come home alive.


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 11:36 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#130:  Author: Caroline OSullivanLocation: Reading, Berkshire, UK PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 10:17 pm


Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad *reaches for the tissue box - again* (((Evadne))) Thanks Josie, hope Evvy and Edgar meet soon

 


#131:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 10:23 pm


Oh! That is so poignant, thanks. Crying or Very sad Glad that Joey realises she doesn't know what to say and doesn't just babble on. Think the line
Quote:
She knew only too well the emotions that ran through Evadne’s head, the feelings of abandonment, of loneliness, of a future snatched away. The difference was that Joey had had that future returned to her, the day Jack had come home alive.
is perfect.

 


#132:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 11:13 pm


Crying or Very sad (also glad to see Joey being sensitive)

 


#133:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 11:23 pm


*sniffles* very moving glad joey is being sensitive to evvy's feelings and not pushing her own procreative impulses

 


#134:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 12:15 am


Waaaah!!! Jo! You made me cry again!!! Crying or Very sad

 


#135:  Author: MarianneLocation: Lancaster PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 12:22 am


Joey always was fairly sensitive wasnt she? Poor Evadne Sad

 


#136:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 3:40 am


patmac wrote:
Miss Di wrote:
You don't wipe your mouth on your sleeve and your hands on your jeans do you? Evil or Very Mad
Nah! corner of the tablecloth does for me Twisted Evil
Oooh. Tableclothes. You are Posh! Wink Nice to see Joey being so sensitive. Poor Evvy.

 


#137:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 5:01 am


Marianne wrote:
Joey always was fairly sensitive wasnt she?
Well she was supposed to be - but she could also be cringingly tactless - thinking her comment to Simone here. Glad to see that, on this occasion she knew what to say - ie nothing. Thanks Josie.

 


#138:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 6:59 am


Also impressed by Pat's mouth-wiping classiness - I generally just use my sleeve!! Wink Thanks for all your comments everyone Very Happy

Edgar threw his bag in the boot of the car, slammed it shut and turned to say goodbye to his family.

“Frankly, a large part of me wishes I could just stay home with you and play scrabble! The Dalton’s parties are bad enough at the best of times, but New Years Eve!” he shuddered as he spoke. “I suppose that’s why Elsie was so insistent that I go along. They need someone to commiserate with over their miserable night!”

Amelia laughed. “Quite possibly. But it won’t kill you, and maybe it won’t be as bad as you think.”

“Nice try, Amelia, but that one doesn’t work. I say that to myself every time I go to one of their parties and they always turn out to be exactly as bad as I think!”

“Well be that as it may, you can just stop grouching and go and enjoy yourself! You need to celebrate and usher in the New Year. At least you’ll be with Paul and Elsie, even if the party is boring beyond words.”

“Wasn’t it you that told me that all the years just roll into one these days?” he retorted with a grin.

“Yes, but I am old and grey and well past my prime! Now, stop nattering and get in the car and go! Otherwise you’ll never make it to London in time and you’ll have to put up with both myself and Elsie giving you what for!”

Edgar laughed. “Yes Ma’am!”

Turning, he crouched to say goodbye to his children. “Now listen you three, you do exactly as Granny tells you okay? I want no squabbling, no practical jokes,” he looked at Ned who had come back from his first term at school complete with a whole new repertoire to which he had spent the holidays subjecting the family, “and no getting out of bed once Granny tells you that’s where you should be.” This last was directed particularly at Marcia, who had recently decided she resented that being the youngest meant being sent to bed first, and had taken to inventing endless reasons every night why she suddenly couldn’t sleep. “If I hear any tales of misbehaviour when I get back tomorrow then there’ll be no treats for the whole of the year. Understand?”

He was greeted by a chorus of “Yes, Daddy,” and three angelic-looking faces, and he smiled as he kissed them all round and rose up to his full height.

“Butter wouldn’t melt, eh?” He turned back to his stepmother with a wink that they couldn’t see. “Granny, you have my full permission to give a double dose of castor oil to anyone who does anything to deserve it,” he said with a twinkle in his eye, grinning at the look of horror on his children’s faces. “I’ll be back sometime tomorrow afternoon, okay? Definitely before Marcia’s bedtime at any rate.”

Amelia nodded and walked with him as he made his way to the car and opened the door. “Listen, Edgar, try and have a good time, won’t you? You never know, maybe 1951 will be the year when everything starts to come good again."

Edgar smiled as he climbed into the car and looked back up at her. “You’re right, you never know. Let’s hope so, eh?” and with a final goodbye he closed the door, started the engine and drove off down the long driveway wondering what the evening had in store.


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 11:40 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#139:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 8:16 am


I loved Evvy with Jo. She needed to get that out. Is this when Evvy meets Edgar - if Elsie has anything to do with it, it will be Wink Bet it's not as simple as that though! Thanks Josie.

 


#140:  Author: KathyeLocation: Laleham PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 8:22 am


Thanks Jo, cant wait to see what happens when they meet.

 


#141:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 9:29 am


Evvy's chat with Jo was perfect, looking forward to when Evvy and Edgar meet!

 


#142:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 10:05 am


Im glad Jo's chat helped Evvy, its nice to see a caring Jo portrayed sometimes!!! Hurry up Edgar and get to that party!!!

 


#143:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 10:30 am


Lots of lovely updates! THank you Jo! Look forward to the party.

 


#144:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 11:08 am


really lovely updates, thanks Jo

 


#145:  Author: Rachael PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 11:35 am


Wonderful - thanks, Jo Very Happy

 


#146:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 12:36 pm


*also crossing fingers that Evvy will be at the party!* Pweeeeeeeease Jo? Pwetty pweeease???

 


#147:  Author: Catherine_BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 2:55 pm


Oh oh oh! Can't wait to read the next installment! And I hope it doesn't start too disastrously - though I'm sure it won't be entirely plain sailing!

 


#148:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 2:59 pm


Yay! Evvy will be there, won't she?? And good for Joey at knowing when to keep her mouth firmly shut!

 


#149:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 3:06 pm


For once!!!!!

 


#150:  Author: RoseaLocation: Edinburgh PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 3:56 pm


So many wonderful updates - thank you. Looking forward to seeing what happens at the party!

 


#151:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 4:04 pm


“I can’t believe I’m letting you drag me to this thing. I still don’t see why we couldn’t just stay in at yours instead of trekking all the way up to London.”

“For goodness sake, will you stop complaining! I’m beginning to wish we had left you at ours and not paid for the babysitter!”

“Well, I did offer!”

Elsie glared at Evadne, who subsided with a grin. She had spent the Christmas holidays at the Rodwells’ Hampshire home, preferring to stay in Europe rather than join her father who had headed to Louisiana to visit some elderly relatives. They had travelled up to London that afternoon, stopped off at the Lannis’ Kensington home to drop off their belongings and change, and were now on their way to Richmond and the Dalton’s New Years Eve party. Elsie had already filled Evadne in on just how boring the Dalton’s parties generally were, and she had spent the last forty-eight hours trying to find a way to get out of going. Elsie had been insistent, however, saying that there was no way she was going to leave her friend to stay in alone on New Year’s Eve, and Evvy had eventually run out of excuses and had resigned herself to the tedious evening ahead.

Now, as they pulled through the gates of Lord and Lady Dalton’s home and drove up in front of the large Georgian house, Evadne turned to her friend and smiled. “Okay, I promise I’ll try and have a good time.”

“Good, that’s all I ask. If all else fails, at least we’ll be here together and we can go and commiserate in the corner with a bottle of champagne!”

Evadne laughed. “You have a deal! Come on then, let’s go get this over with,” and she turned and opened the car door.

A minute later, as they crossed the marble floor of the vast entrance hall and entered the large ballroom, Evadne felt her heart sink. She didn’t think she’d ever been at a party with less atmosphere in her life. She groaned audibly, and Elsie turned round to face her with a grin.

“I did warn you!”

“And you really weren’t kidding! How early do you think it would be polite to leave? Two minutes past midnight?”

Elsie laughed and grabbed two glasses of champagne as a waiter passed with a tray. “At least we don’t work with these people. Poor Paul has to make polite conversation with them all night! Here, have one of these, it’ll numb your senses,” and she gave one of the glasses to Evadne and took a swig out of her own.

“Seriously, Elsie, where did these people come from? I’ve never seen such a dull crowd in my life!”

Elsie smiled, only half-listening to what Evadne was saying. Her eyes had been scanning the room since they’d entered, and a smile spread across her face as she finally spotted the person she wanted.

“Come along, come and meet our friend Edgar. He looks as enthused about this as we are!”

Evadne followed her friend’s gaze across the room to where a tall, blonde-haired man was perched on one of the window seats staring around with a thoroughly bored expression on his face. He was certainly attractive, she could say that much for him, but he didn’t look any more interesting than anyone else in the room.

“Must I, Elsie? No offence, but I’m not sure I can deal with talking to any of these stuffed shirts before I’ve at least had a few more of these,” she said, taking a swig of champagne.

Elsie took hold of Evadne’s elbow and started to pull her towards Edgar. “He’s a good sort, Evvy, give him a chance. You’ll like him.”

Evvy rolled her eyes and thought otherwise, as she allowed herself to be dragged across the room.


(Have had to add the next post on here as it somehow got deleted in the board move Confused )

Edgar looked up with a relieved smile as he spotted Elsie making her way towards him.

“About time! I was beginning to think you’d got me here under false pretences and you two weren’t going to turn up.” He stood up and stopped to kiss Elsie on the cheek. “Where’s Paul?”

“He got accosted by Archie Roberts the minute he walked in the door and carried off to meet someone or other who’s name frankly escapes me. I’m sure he’ll get away soon enough. He’s had enough practise.” She pulled Evadne forward, causing her to slop champagne down her front. “Edgar, this is Evadne Lannis, and old school chum of mine. Evvy, this is Sir Edgar Watson.”

“Pleased to meet you.” Evvy smiled as she quickly shook his hand, then turned towards Elsie with a grimace, dabbing her front with a flimsy lace handkerchief she had pulled from her bag. “You could be more careful, you idiot! I’m not a rag doll you know!”

“Oh, stop making such a fuss! You can’t even see it, you’re wearing black for goodness sake! How are you, Edgar, good Christmas?” she said, leaving Evadne to her own devices.

“Very good thanks. Ned’s come home from school full of beans and practical jokes which kept us all on our toes. It was wonderful to have him home again, though.” He was watching Evvy as he spoke, and pulling out his handkerchief from his pocket held it out to her. “Here, use this. That flimsy bit of cloth isn’t doing anything.”

She took the handkerchief and looked up at him with a grateful smile. “Thanks! Sorry, I know I’m being horribly rude not having met you before, it’s just…”

“We have met before actually.”

“We have?” She’d stopped what she was doing as he spoke, and was now staring at him completely bemused.

Edgar grinned at the confusion on her face. “Only once, just after the end of the war. You’d been working in England and came to the 100 Club with Paul and Elsie one night.”

Elsie, who’d been looking as bemused as Evadne, suddenly gave an exclamation. “That’s right! It was Madeleine’s birthday, wasn’t it? Gosh, I’d forgotten all about that!”

The mention of Madeleine’s name had rung a bell with Evvy, and she thought she recalled the night in question as well. “I think I remember now. Madeleine’s your wife, isn’t she? Petit, dark curly hair?” Edgar nodded. “Is she here tonight?” she asked, looking around. “I seem to remember her being a really lovely lady.”

Edgar looked down awkwardly, not knowing what to say, and Elsie stared at her, slightly aghast. Evadne looked from one to the other, confused again. “What?”

“Um, Evvy,” Elsie glanced at Edgar as she spoke, “Madeleine died, four years ago.”

Evadne went bright red and put a hand over her mouth, a mortified expression on her face. “Oh god, I’m sorry. I…”

“Evadne, it’s okay, really,” Edgar smiled at her and laid a hand on her arm as he spoke, “you weren’t to know.” He could see how awkward she now felt, and decided being frank about it was the best way to overcome that. “She died of cancer four years ago, about six months after our youngest daughter was born. And you’re right, she was a really lovely lady. I’m glad you remember her that way.”

Evvy smiled at him, still feeling too awkward to speak, and Elsie decided it was time to move the conversation along. “They all live down in Wiltshire now, in this great, big, rambling old house. You should see it, Evvy, it’s amazing. Like a museum! They just rattle around in it, there’s only five of them; Edgar, his stepmother Amelia and the three kids.” She turned to Edgar with a grin. “Maybe you should have kept Tamara after all, she could have filled up some space in one of the rooms!”

Edgar chuckled, and Evadne suddenly realised what they were talking about. Before she knew what she was saying, she’d blurted out, “Oh I’ve heard about you. You’re Elsie’s friend who nearly married that frightful woman!”

Edgar stared at her dumbfounded for a moment, as Elsie tried to smother her giggles, and then he burst out laughing. “Yes, that would be me!”

It suddenly dawned on Evvy what she had said and she went bright red again, and tried to stammer an apology. Then, feeling like a complete fool, she muttered something about needing to go to the bathroom, and turned on her heel and fled, leaving the other two staring after her.


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 11:52 pm; edited 4 times in total

 


#152:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 4:09 pm


Lovely lovely! And I know it's hideously greedy... but please can we have some more? Oooh it's snowing! Shocked

 


#153:  Author: KathyeLocation: Laleham PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 4:12 pm


I've been told that you have promised they will meet today, we'll I hate to tell you that as yet they still havnt actually met !!!! Being in the same room definitely doesnt count

 


#154:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 4:27 pm


So there had better be another post tonight...even if I am out!

 


#155:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 4:52 pm


definitely greedy to ask for more, but I'm going to do it anyway! Please Jo?!?

 


#156:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 5:15 pm


Jo? Sweet, shiny, talented, not-at-all-addicted-to-red-wine Jo? May we have some more please?

 


#157:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 5:41 pm


Just being in the same room is not enough!

 


#158:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 5:43 pm


*Wondering how long Jo can drag out the walk across the room Twisted Evil * *Settles down in the corner of the room with a glass of champagne to criticize all the boring people and watch for THE MEETING*

 


#159:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 9:04 pm


I love the way you are drawing this out Jo, especially as the meeting is extremely shiny............... Twisted Evil :angel:

 


#160:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 9:31 pm


Mexican Wave They've met! Since Elsie didn't see fit to tell Evvy the details, I'm not surprised she put her foot in it. Thank you, Jo.

 


#161:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 9:34 pm


Josie! Get Evvy back here! Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Lovely posts - thank you.

 


#162:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 9:36 pm


So typically Evvy to do that. Thank goodness Edgar seems to be amused by her. Well, why isn't there any more of this? I want to do the weeping sentimental tears into a tissue bit, very soon.

 


#163:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 10:19 pm


Just caught up on all of this and is VERY shiny, thank you Jo!! Kiss Please make him go after her? Soon?

 


#164:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 10:31 pm


*groans* oh EVVY!!!!!

 


#165:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 10:42 pm


Yay they've met! Let the romancing begin! Heart

 


#166:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 12:24 am


So tactless. So like Evvy. Looking forward to see which foot goes in mouth next!

 


#167:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 12:45 am


That broke the ice, alright. Poor Evvy. But at least Edgar won't consider her boring! *giggling helplessly*

 


#168:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 1:47 am


*hugs poor Evvy!!!* Jo that was a mean thing to do to the poor girl! (but so very, very funny!!!! Wink )

 


#169:  Author: Rachael PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 9:35 am


Wonderful - completely Evvy-esque Very Happy *beams* Please can we have the Heart :love: Kiss bit ... *expectant and impatient* ... and a nice scene with Corney would go some way to repairing the damage that a certain other lady's drabble may have done to that good woman's reputation! Mr. Green Pretty please!!

 


#170:  Author: Helen CLocation: Sheffield/Luton PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 10:55 am


Yay so glad they've met now. Very Happy Poor Evvy opps!

 


#171:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 11:19 am


Wonderful! Thank you Jo! Typical Evvy - but then if Elsie hasn't told her the details what could she do!

 


#172:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 11:26 am


Rachael wrote:
Please can we have the Heart :love: Kiss bit ... *expectant and impatient*

Have patience, people! Wink Robin's right. This is Evvy, it's never going to be plain sailing... Laughing


Rachael wrote:
... and a nice scene with Corney would go some way to repairing the damage that a certain other lady's drabble may have done to that good woman's reputation! Mr. Green Pretty please!!

This I can do! Keep eyes peeled for a few posts time as I begin to try and redeem Corney! Very Happy Wink Wink

Now, back to New Years Eve...


“Will you stop laughing, it’s not funny!”

“Oh come on, Evvy, it is a bit funny.” Elsie was trying her hardest to keep a straight face but she was having great difficulty. “Honestly, I can’t take you anywhere, can I?”

“I’m glad I amuse you so much! Sadly, I don’t think your friend’ll find the whole thing quite so humorous, do you?”

“Edgar? Don’t worry about him, he won’t be offended. He was still laughing his head off when I left him.”

They were standing out on the driveway, where Evadne had fled to after leaving the ballroom, and Evvy shivered in the cold night air, wrapping her arms across her chest and rubbing her bare arms in an effort to keep warm.

“It’s not so much the last comment I’m worried about.” She looked at her friend with a distressed expression on her face. “You could’ve told me about his wife, Elsie. The poor guy, he didn’t know where to look. I’ve never been so embarrassed in my life.”

Elsie gave her a repentant smile. “Yes, sorry about that. I never expected it to come up to be honest. I’d totally forgotten you’d ever met before.”

“So had I, but you know how I am by now. If there’s something inappropriate to be said, I can generally manage to find it!”

Elsie laughed. “Oh come on, you’re not that bad. And he’s not worried about that anyway, he knows you didn’t do it on purpose.” She noticed Evadne shivering, and feeling cold herself, she took her friend by the arm. “Evvy, let’s go back inside, it’s freezing out here. We’ll just go and grab a table out of the way, sit and chat. Honestly, don’t worry about what happened,” she added, seeing the hesitation on Evvy’s face, “it’s not a big deal, okay?”

Realising her friend was right, it really was cold, Evvy smiled and rolled her eyes. “Fine, I’ll come back in. But we leave as soon after midnight as we can, okay? Quite frankly, the sooner this night is over the better.”

“Agreed! Come on then. Apart from anything else, I think we should probably go and rescue my poor husband about now!”

“That’s a point I’d forgotten all about Paul!”

“Don’t let him hear that, whatever you do. That really will offend!” and grinning, Elsie turned and headed back into the house, Evvy chuckling as she followed.


An hour or so later, Edgar glanced around and caught sight of Evadne sitting alone at one of the large round tables. Smiling to himself, he walked across the room, dodging Lord Dalton who made moves towards talking to him, and came to stand next to her, looking down at her with a grin.

“Room for a little one, d’you think?”

Evadne looked up in surprise, then glanced around the empty table and smiled. “I’m sure we can squeeze you in somehow!” She watched him as he pulled out the chair next to her and sat down. “You’re a brave man, aren’t you? There’s no saying what may come out of my mouth next, you know.”

“What can I say, I’m a glutton for punishment.”

Her face coloured as he spoke, and he watched her closely, an amused expression on his face. “Say, I’m sorry about before.” Evvy was still feeling awkward, and her cheeks burned as she spoke. “I couldn’t have been ruder if I tried, could I?”

“Forget about it, please. You weren’t rude at all.”

She looked at him, eyebrow raised. “Nice of you to say so, but we both know that’s not true. You’d reckon I’d have learnt to think before I speak by my age. Never was my strong point,” she added with a wry smile.

“Ah well, it’s refreshing to meet someone who speaks their mind.”

Unsure whether she was being ridiculed, Evvy glanced at him suspiciously, then seeing the twinkle in his eye, she relaxed and laughed. “Well, that’s one way of putting it!”

Edgar grinned. “It makes a change. Especially as I’m not entirely sure most of the people in this room actually have minds!” Evvy laughed again. “That’s better. Now, how about we start over again.” He held his hand out towards her, “I’m Edgar. Pleased to meet you.”

Evadne hesitated for a second, then smiled, putting her hand in his and shaking it. “Evvy. Pleasure to meet you too."


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 11:49 pm; edited 6 times in total

 


#173:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 11:43 am


Thank you Jo! Glad Edgar isn't holding it against Evvy - look forward to seeing them getting to know each other better - and to the redemption of Corney!

 


#174:  Author: KathyeLocation: Laleham PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 11:45 am


yay - thanks Jo Dont worry we all love Corney

 


#175:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 11:56 am


Yay for meetings and lol at Evvy, glad Edgar understood!!!

 


#176:  Author: Rachael PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 12:17 pm


Marvellous! Edgar is a big sweetie-pie! Very Happy

 


#177:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 12:28 pm


brilliant, let the fun begin! Out of interest, which book is it in that Evvy tells Joey she's getting married to Edgar? thanks jo

 


#178:  Author: Helen CLocation: Sheffield/Luton PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 12:32 pm


I think it might be trials

 


#179:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 1:13 pm


Nice post Jo! I thought for a minute that was a false start and she would go home before they talked. I love Corney too! Trouble is if you wander round the drabbles and archives long enough, I think everyone has come out seeming rotten at some point! You'd sometimes think we hated the books Shocked

 


#180:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 6:49 pm


*grin* That was great Jo! I'm so glad Edgar didn't get all huffy and offended!

 


#181:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 7:28 pm


Once the ice had been broken, the two of them settled into comfortable small talk. Elsie soon rejoined them, dragging a relieved looking Paul behind her, and they all passed the time until midnight laughing and joking, keeping to themselves and having a far better time than any of them had thought they would.

As midnight approached, Paul was leant towards his wife, his arm around her shoulders as he whispered something in her ear, and she was laughing and holding his hand. Evadne had gone quiet, and turning to speak to her, Edgar saw her watching her friends with a sad look on her face, seemingly lost in thought.

“Penny for them?”

His voice brought her mind back to the present and she turned to look at him with a smile. “Sorry, I was miles away. Just thinking that’s all.” He raised a questioning eyebrow at her, and she shook her head. “It’s just…well, let’s just say midnight on New Years Eve is not my most favourite time of year.”

Edgar returned her smile. “Yes, I can relate to that. Something to do with ushering in the New Year alone I think.” He picked up his glass and held it out towards her. “What say we agree to dislike it together this year? Will be nice to have the company.”

Evvy picked up her glass and chinked it against his. “You’re on!”

He looked at his watch. “Righto, we have two minutes to think up what we want 1951 to bring us. You first.”

“Um, happiness and peace?”

“Hmmm, too big an ask I think. We need to aim smaller and more pathetic. I’ll go, then you’ll get the idea.” He sat back in his chair, his face screwed up in thought. “Okay, I wish for less holes in my socks, the perfect cup of tea and not having to come here for a single party the entire year. Your turn.”

Laughing, Evvy thought for a moment. “Let me see, what do I want? Okay, I wish for a limitless supply of chocolate cake, stockings that don’t ladder and managing to put my foot in my mouth a little less often! That do?”

“Perfect!”

Someone began the ten-second countdown to midnight, and they got to their feet with everyone else. As they reached zero and cheers rang out around the room, Edgar turned to her and raised his glass again. “Happy New Year, Evvy. I hope all your dreams come true.” He looked her in the eyes as he spoke, and felt a slight flip in his stomach. Hastily he shook his head, trying to pull himself together.

Evadne hadn’t noticed his reaction, and chinking her glass against his with a “Happy New Year!” she turned away laughingly as Elsie grabbed her arm and pulled her into a hug.

Fifteen minutes later, Elsie managed to convince Paul that they wanted to leave, and the four of them walked outside to track down their respective cars. Edgar shook hands with Paul and pecked Elsie on the cheek. Then turning to Evadne, he held out his hand, “It’s been an absolute pleasure, Evvy. I’ve actually had a very good night.”

She smiled at him and shook his proffered hand, “Yes, me too. It was real nice to meet you. I thought you were just another stuffy old shirt when I first saw you, but you’re not like that at all!”

There was silence for a moment as Edgar stared at her, a smile touching the edge of his lips, then Evadne realised what she’d said and turned bright red for the third time in the evening. “I’ve just done it again, haven’t I?”

Edgar laughed and nodded his head. “Yes, but I’ll take it as a compliment! Go on, Elsie’s calling you. ‘Bye Evvy.”

With a quick goodbye, Evvy turned and ran over to where Paul and Elsie were already in the car. As she slammed the door and they drove off down the driveway, Elsie twisted round in her seat to look at her. “So, did you have a good time? You and Edgar seemed to get on well.”

Evvy grinned. “Yes, he seems like a nice guy. Not sure I could go through one of those parties again though, I have to say. How long were you stuck with that man with the bad wig, Paul?”

Paul laughed and replied to her, and the conversation turned away from Edgar as they pulled onto the main road and headed for Evadne’s house where they were all spending the night.

Back in the drive, Edgar watched the lights of the car disappear into the distance, then climbed into his own, started the engine and headed off in the direction of his Central London flat, hoping it would not be too long before he next saw Evadne again.


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 11:55 pm; edited 4 times in total

 


#182:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 7:33 pm


Yay!!!! Lovely Jo!!! thank you!

 


#183:  Author: DonnaLocation: Liverpool PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 7:51 pm


aww, aren't they both so lovely?! and Corney, and elsie, and Paul and Ned and Amelia (I think you get the picture!). I haven't posted much lately, but I love this Josie - I can't wait for more! Smile

 


#184:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 8:31 pm


Awwwww, that was lovely Josie, thank you. (And Rachael you are in sooooooo much trouble! Twisted Evil )

 


#185:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 8:45 pm


Lesley wrote:
(And Rachael you are in sooooooo much trouble! Twisted Evil )
Heee heee!! Rachael's in trouble!!!! Wink

 


#186:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 8:55 pm


Beautiful Josie! Very Happy

 


#187:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 9:13 pm


Beautiful Josie, thank you and if Rachael's in trouble does this mean it's revenge drabble time? JackieJ

 


#188:  Author: auntie karryLocation: Stoke on Trent PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 9:18 pm


Quote:
Back in the drive, Edgar watched the lights of the car disappear into the distance, then climbed into his own, started the engine and headed off in the direction of his Central London flat, hoping it would not be too long before he next saw Evadne again.
Awwwww that is so sweet! Heart Thanks for showing us that!

 


#189:  Author: RebeccaLocation: Kendal/Oxford PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 9:52 pm


Lovely stuff! I've just caught up with about a month of this (yes, my essay was sadly neglected this evening) and, well... Smile Mad Shocked Neutral Crying or Very sad Very Happy I feel like I've gone through them all - this is soooo good!

 


#190:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Jan 25, 2005 10:55 pm


Great Josie! I'm so glad they hit it off. I suppose I'm wishful thinking that they won't have any more hiccups? Wink

 


#191:  Author: Rachael PostPosted: Wed Jan 26, 2005 9:02 am


*stocially ignores Lesley's comment Wink * That was lovely, Josie - so Edgar realises that Evvy may begin to mean something to him - I wonder when the penny will drop with her?

 


#192:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jan 26, 2005 10:26 am


“Here you go, one cup of tea!”

Paul handed the drink to Edgar and crossed the front room to sit down in a big armchair by the window. It was ten days into the New Year, and Edgar was on his way home from dropping Ned off to get the train back to school. The two girls hadn’t wanted to come along this time, and as Amelia was away for a couple of weeks and they could hardly be left at home alone, Elsie and Paul had agreed to have them for the night. He had now arrived to pick them up and was waiting downstairs on their strict orders whilst they packed up their stuff and finished whatever it was they were doing that he wasn’t allowed to see.

“So, Evvy not here then?”

“No, you’ve just missed her. Elsie took her to the airport this morning to catch a flight to the States.” Edgar’s face fell slightly at this, and Paul caught the expression before his friend had time to correct it. “You seemed to get on very well with her at the party the other week?”

“Yes, she’s a nice girl.” Edgar was trying to sound as casual as possible, and not doing a very good job. “So is she not in Europe permanently then? I thought she told me she lived in Paris?”

“She does part of the time. She’s back and forth between there and the States, though she’s more often in Europe these days. I think she’s moving over permanently this year. Her father’s lived in Paris for a while now he’s a merchant of some kind, can’t remember what exactly.”

At that moment the door opened and Elsie came in, a wicked grin on her face. “They’ll be down in a minute, Edgar,” she said blandly perching herself on the arm of her husband’s chair.

Paul looked up at her as she sat down. “Darling, what is it that Arthur Lannis does again?”

At the mention of the name, Edgar sat up straight in his seat. “Arthur Lannis? The agriculture merchant and philanthropist?” he exclaimed before Elsie could answer.

She looked at him in surprise. “Yes, that’s him. Do you know him then?”

“I know of him. The Foreign Office does work with his firm, though I never have personally, and he does a lot with the FAO as well. I’ve come across his name when I’ve been over in Geneva. Small world! I didn’t realise that’s who her father is. She just called herself idle rich the other day.”

Elsie laughed. “Is that what she told you?”

“Yes, why? Is it not true?”

“Well, it sort of is. She is rich, and she can certainly be idle when she chooses! I suppose she doesn’t work at the moment either, though she did have a job for a veteran’s association back in Long Island for a while. She helps her father out with some of his bits and pieces these days. They do quite a lot to help out some of the war widows it started with a friend of the family, or something, but I know they help out at least four others now too, and they’re paying for a couple of kids to go through school and stuff. I think she’s coordinating it all for him but I don’t really know the details, she doesn’t talk about it much.”

“Really? She never mentioned any of this the other night.”

“No, she wouldn’t. Why are you two talking about Evvy anyway?”

Before they could answer, there was a scrabbling sound outside the door and it was flung open, admitting Thea into the room.

“Daddy, you have to come and see!”

“Don’t I get a kiss first?” he replied, looking quizzically at his daughter.

“In a minute! Come on, Daddy!” Edgar rose from his chair, looking suspiciously at Elsie who was trying to stifle her giggles, and followed his daughter into the hall. He was greeted by Marcia, who was standing proudly next to, well, he didn’t really know what it was. He could see that it had once been a large packing crate, four long thin logs, a smaller wooden box and several lengths of a very hairy material, but what it had become at the hands of his daughters was beyond him. All he could think was how was he going to fit it in the car?

“It’s…er…it’s lovely! Is it for me?”

Thea grabbed her father’s hand and dragged him forward. “It’s for all of us!”

“She’s called Millicent Mary, and she’s our new dog.” Marcia gave him a beaming smile and he had to bite his lip to stop himself laughing. He knew where this had come from. All three children had spent all Christmas nagging him to be allowed a dog, but as he often had to stay overnight in London, and was wary of Amelia’s health, he had refused. Obviously they had decided this was the next best thing. Marcia patted the ‘dog’ on the head. “It was Uncle Paul's idea, and him and Auntie Elsie helped us make her too!”

“Yes, I bet they did.” He heard a chuckle from behind him, and turned round to face Paul. “Thanks a bunch. How am I supposed to get this home?” he asked in an undertone.

Paul shrugged. “I’ve no idea old chap. Let’s go and see if we can fit it in shall we?” and grabbing an end each, and followed by the two girls and Tom, who had helped make it and had come to join in the fun, they carried it out to the car.

Twenty minutes and much pushing and shoving later, they had somehow managed to fit the creature in the boot of the car, albeit with the boot wide open and secured with a rope, and with a toot of the horn the Watsons’ car pulled out of the driveway and disappeared down the road.

Laughing, Paul put an arm around his wife and they turned to walk back into the cottage. “Well, at least they’ve got plenty of room for it in the house!” He shut the door behind them, and they walked into the front room, Paul sitting down in his chair with a sigh. “Phew! I’m exhausted after that.” Elsie came and perched on the arm of his chair and he looked up at her with a twinkle in his eye. “Well, my dear, unless I am very much mistaken, I believe that Edgar is rather smitten with our Evvy.”

Elsie gave a squeal of excitement. “I knew it! I knew if I could just introduce them…” She turned round suddenly to face him, almost falling off the arm of the chair as she did so. “Oh Paul, how exciting!”

Paul laughed at her enthusiasm, as suddenly her recent behaviour began to make sense. “So that’s what you’ve been trying to do.”

“I’ve been trying to introduce them for over a year! Can you imagine if they got together? What could be more perfect?”

“Well, I can’t disagree with that. All the same, Elsie,” he added more soberly, “don’t push it, okay? Edgar’s not said as much to me, it’s just a feeling I get. And you’ve no idea if Evvy’s even remotely interested. You know how fragile they both are, so don’t go blundering in there like a bull in a china shop. If anything is to happen, leave them to work it out on their own.”

“Oh I won’t push it, I promise. I do think that we should see a lot more of Evvy over the next few months though,” she added with a grin. “I’m sure there’s a few places we can take her where we know he’ll be!”

Paul laughed. “Honestly woman, you’re incorrigible!”

A sudden crying from upstairs alerted them to the fact that Lily was awake, and standing up, Elsie held out a hand to pull her husband to his feet. “Go and see to her will you, Paul? I need to get the dinner on.” He nodded and she kissed him on the cheek. “Thanks, you’re an absolute love. Give me a shout if you need me!” and with that she left the room, leaving him to head upstairs, the matter of Edgar and Evvy pushed to one side for now.


Last edited by Josie on Tue Mar 08, 2005 11:58 pm; edited 3 times in total

 


#193:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Jan 26, 2005 10:37 am


Hehe, Millicent Mary is fab!! Laughing I love Elsie's reaction as well, she's such a lovely friend.

 


#194:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Jan 26, 2005 10:56 am


Aww lovely thank you Jo! Love the pet dog! And love Edgar and Evvy - when will she realise?

 


#195:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Jan 26, 2005 11:23 am


I always have such a grin on my face when I read this - I'm sure people must think I'm a complete loon! Smile Smile I love that Evvy managed to break her new years wish quite so quickly, and also that Paul is sensible enough to try and restrain Elsie's enthusiasm a bit. And that hairy dog Shocked

 


#196:  Author: Rachael PostPosted: Wed Jan 26, 2005 1:25 pm


*g* After reading Ally's comment as I flicked to where I left this, I thought Millicent Mary was going to be another character (real and human, that is Rolling Eyes ) Fabulous!! Laughing Laughing Poor Edgar - I hope Evvy comes back to Europe soon ... Isn't Elsie good-tempered? Given the company she keeps (Corney & Evvy!!) is a bit much that her husband warns her not to blunder about like a bull in a china shop!!

 


#197:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Jan 26, 2005 1:27 pm


Brilliant Jo!!!more soon please!

 


#198:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans/Leicester PostPosted: Wed Jan 26, 2005 6:04 pm


I LOVE the dog, it's a fantastic idea Very Happy Thanks Josie

 


#199:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Jan 26, 2005 6:14 pm


Love the dog! I laughed at the fact that Paul has only just realised what Elsie was up to! Looking forward to Evvy coming back to Europe.

 


#200:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Jan 26, 2005 7:29 pm


Wonderful! Laughing Laughing Laughing Thanks Josie.

 


#201:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Jan 26, 2005 9:17 pm


I really like Elsie and Paul's relationship!

 


#202:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Wed Jan 26, 2005 9:23 pm


Yay for Evvy and Edgar! And Elsie has grown on me SO much since the days when I didn't really like her very much in the books... sorry I dont make much sense, I haven't had much sleep! Rolling Eyes

 


#203:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Jan 27, 2005 7:52 am


I'm off to the sun, sea and smog of LA for a few days of work and pleasure, so this will be the last update before next Tuesday.Have a good weekend everyone. Very Happy

ETA: Have discovered Corney's first kid was actually called Terry, so have edited accordingly!



Evadne glanced up from her book and looked at her friend with concern. They had been sitting in the van Alden’s salon reading for the past couple of hours, and to all intents and purposes Cornelia appeared to have her head buried deep in ‘Life’ Magazine but it had not escaped Evadne’s notice that she had not turned a single page. Evvy opened her mouth to speak, when the shrill ringing of the phone cut through the silence, and like a shot Cornelia jumped out of her seat and dashed from the room to answer it, leaving Evadne to stare after her bewildered.

She’d been staying with Mike, Cornelia and Therese, their new addition, since the end of January, and for the first couple of weeks everything had been fine. Two-month-old Terry was a bonny, smiling baby with a shock of fair hair and enormous blue eyes just like her mother’s, and Corney and Mike were as proud and happy as any new parents could be. For the past week or so, however, Cornelia had not seemed herself at all. She was quieter, she laughed a little less, and her temper had become shorter to the point that for the last couple of days Evadne had felt like she could do nothing right. Mike had been more his normal self but even he was quieter and a little more subdued. That there was something wrong, Evvy could see, but whenever she had asked, Corney had either laughed at her question or bitten her head off, and she wasn’t sure what else to do.

Now, as Evvy sat there pondering what could be wrong, she suddenly realised that Cornelia had been gone for over half an hour and the house had gone very quiet. Thinking she should go and check that everything was all right, she put down her book, uncurled herself from her seat and left the room in search of her friend. It didn’t take Evadne long to track her down to her bedroom, and she was shocked to find Cornelia lying face down on the bed, her face buried in the pillows and her body shaking with sobs. Corney never cried Evvy could count on one hand the occasions over the years on which she had seen tears escape from her friend’s eyes.

Hurrying forward, she sat down on the edge of the bed and put an arm around Cornelia’s shoulders. “Corney, what’s wrong? What’s happened?”

Corney started as she felt Evadne’s hand on her shoulders and heard her voice, and she turned her face away from her. “Nothing’s wrong, Evvy, I’m fine. Just leave me alone I’ll be okay in a minute.”

“No, I’m not going to leave you alone. You’re clearly not fine, you haven’t been for a few days now, and I’m not leaving here until you tell me what’s going on.”

Seeing Evadne wasn’t going to be moved that easily, Corney sat up and scrubbed her eyes with her handkerchief, her shoulders still heaving slightly. “I really am fine, Evvy, I promise you. I’m just being an ass.”

“Why? What’s happened? Who was that on the phone?”

“It was Mike.” She looked her friend in the eyes, and seeing the look of determination on Evadne’s face, she sat back and gave a sigh. “He was calling to say that he’s been failed by his draft board.”

“Which draft board? What do you mean?”

Corney looked at her with a weak smile. “He got a letter a couple of weeks ago calling him to a draft board to go to Korea. They’re starting to call a lot of people up now apparently, starting with any vets who are still fighting age. Mike was in the army air corps during the war in Europe. We’ve been waiting to find out whether he’d be going or not, and he’s just heard today that he’s been turned down something to do with a combination of an old shrapnel wound and his age.”

Her shoulders heaved again as she finished speaking, and Evvy took hold of her hand. She now understood what had been setting Cornelia on edge this past week or so. “Surely that’s good news though?”

“I know, I told you I was being an ass. I’m just so relieved, that’s all.” Corney looked at her friend and the tears began to well up in her eyes again. “Oh, Evvy, I’ve been so scared. I thought he was going to be sent away from Terry and me. All these thoughts have been going on in my head what if anything happened, if he went and never came back. I couldn’t stand it, I couldn’t live without him.” Her voice choked with sobs again, and she hastily pulled herself together and rubbed her eyes. “I’m sorry, Evvy, I know I’m being horribly selfish. I shouldn’t be talking to you about this.”

“Why ever not?”

“With everything that’s happened and…”

“Now you are being an ass.” Evvy’s voice was gentle as she reached out and put a hand on Cornelia’s shoulder. “Corney, I’m exactly who you should be talking to about this. After all, who better than me to understand?” She pulled her friend towards her and into a hug. “Plus, you’re my best friend. If I can’t be there for you, what kind of person does that make me?”


Cornelia’s spirits were vastly improved for the rest of the day, and she returned more or less to her normal self, but it was clear that she was still on edge, and that evening when Mike’s key sounded in the door, she jumped up and threw herself into her husband’s arms as he entered the room, bursting into tears again. Mike held her tightly to him, stroking her hair and soothing her, and feeling like she was intruding, Evadne got up from her seat and announced that she was going upstairs to read.

Mike looked up as she spoke. “Evvy, don’t be silly, you don’t need to leave.”

“Yes I do, and I really don’t mind. You two need some time alone together and I want to finish my book. I’ll listen out for Terry, you just concentrate on yourselves, okay?” She gave him a smile as she reached the door, “I’m glad it’s worked out this way, Mike. Goodnight.”

She walked across the hall and was just heading up the stairs when Corney ran up behind her. “Evvy, are you okay?”

She gave her friend a grin. “Of course I am! Now, go on you, scram! Go and spend time with that husband of yours, you deserve it.” She leaned forward and kissed Corney on the cheek. “Goodnight.”

“Night Evvy, and thanks.”

Evadne smiled at her. “Any time,” and as Corney returned to the salon, Evvy turned and walked up the stairs to her room.

It wasn’t until her door was firmly shut that she let her feelings out, and leaning back against it she gave a sigh and felt the heaviness in her heart. Seeing them together like that had brought a lump to her throat, and as she got changed and ready for bed, she was angry with herself for feeling a little jealous. She didn’t begrudge them their good fortune, but she couldn’t help feeling a slight sense of unfairness that fortune always seemed to favour everybody else. Why, when everybody else got to be happy, had it not seen fit to give her a break.

Securing her hair back from her face, she climbed into bed. Then, leaving her book on the bedside table, she turned out the light, wriggled down between the sheets and cried herself to sleep for the first time in several years.


Oh, and Kathye insists that I thank her for her all round beauty, good sense and general perfect qualities. Oh, and for her proof reading as well. Twisted Evil Wink


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:03 am; edited 2 times in total

 


#204:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Jan 27, 2005 8:10 am


I can well understand Corney's feelings. Poor Evvy, though. Have a great time, Josie.

 


#205:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Jan 27, 2005 9:07 am


*hugs Evvy* Poor Corney too, she must have been dreading Mike leaving. Enjoy LA!!! Very Happy

 


#206:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 27, 2005 9:27 am


Poor Evvy! So pleased for Corney and Mike though! Thank you Jo and have fun in LA!

 


#207:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Thu Jan 27, 2005 9:48 am


I was so worried that baby Jessica was going to be ill and die and that was what was making Corney sad. So glad she's not though! Poor Evvy though!

 


#208:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Jan 27, 2005 10:15 am


Josie wrote:
They’re starting to call a lot of people up now apparently, starting with any vets who are still fighting age.
I read this and thought to myself 'why on earth do they need animal doctors in Korea?!?' Confused Confused but have worked it out now!Poor Evvy, must be hard to see your friends so happy without thinking of what you're missing. Pleased that Mike is not going to have to go though.Thanks Jo, have a fab time in LA(Edited for spelling!)

 


#209:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Thu Jan 27, 2005 2:25 pm


Thanks, Jo! Glad to see Corney & Mike's fears relieved, and hope Evvy gets to meet Millicent Mary and her creators soon. Have fun on the trip Smile

 


#210:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Thu Jan 27, 2005 7:56 pm


Thanks Jo! Have a great time! I'm so glad Mike isn't being called up again. Must have brought up so many memories for Evvy. And poor Corney having to live with that dread!

 


#211:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Jan 27, 2005 9:38 pm


Thanks Josie -lovely post.

 


#212:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Jan 27, 2005 10:24 pm


awwwww poor corney having to live with that hanging over her poor evvy having to put on a brave face

 


#213:  Author: MarianneLocation: Lancaster PostPosted: Fri Jan 28, 2005 12:52 am


Poor Evvy!!! Sad

 


#214:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 28, 2005 4:00 pm


I've just caught up on over a week's worth of this - Jo I don't know if I've laughed or cried more (especially if you include crying with laughter) but it's brilliant - thank you Hope you have a good time in LA Liz

 


#215:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Sat Jan 29, 2005 10:28 pm


I too have just caught up with over a weeks worth of posts, far too many to comment on individually. A lovely drabble. Really hearwarming.

 


#216:  Author: KathyeLocation: Laleham PostPosted: Sat Jan 29, 2005 10:38 pm


Cant wait for you to get back from LA Jo, hope you are having a wonderful time, I miss you Crying or Very sad

 


#217:  Author: dackelLocation: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Sun Jan 30, 2005 8:36 pm


Yey, they've met at last, can't wait for the next bit! Hope you have (had) a lovely time in LA, Josie!

 


#218:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Sun Jan 30, 2005 9:06 pm


Thanks Jo! Hope you have a good time in LA Very Happy

 


#219:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 3:41 pm


Joooo! I just saw you lurking! Does this mean you're back and we can expect some lovely updates that were written on the plane??? *looks hopeful* Smile Smile hope you had a fab time!

 


#220:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 4:30 pm


Here you go, Robin, your wish is my command. Very Happy And yes, had a lovely time thanks.

As his driver steered the staff car around Eaton Square and into Chester Row, Edgar looked out of the window at the pouring April rain. Even the weather could not dampen his mood today work was going wonderfully well, he had been asked to head up an important project which he was hoping would have a beneficial bearing on advancing his career in the direction in which his aspirations lay. Added to that, the previous evening had seen him visiting his old prep school for his son’s first ‘Head’s interview’, and he had been delighted to discover that Ned was becoming one of the Dragon School’s shining lights, on the playing field in particular. He had chuckled at the Headmaster’s reference to the boy’s ‘penchant for keeping his peers entertained’ they were almost exactly the words used many years ago to describe his own and Paul’s love of practical jokes, and it all brought back happy memories indeed. Yes, life was definitely good.

As these thoughts ran through his head, he stared ahead of him up the road, and his gaze landed on the figure of a young woman, soaking wet, hair plastered down by the rain. She was crouching down, seemingly pulling at the back of her shoe, and her face was hidden beneath her hair that had come loose and was falling around her shoulders, but Edgar couldn’t help feeling there was something vaguely familiar about her. As the car approached the spot where she was crouched, he was still trying to place her when a pedestrian suddenly darted out into the road, causing his driver to swerve and run right through an enormous puddle at the side of the road, sending a wave of water over the woman and soaking her even more. Calling to his driver to pull over, Edgar grabbed his umbrella and jumped out, apologies on the tip of his tongue, when he heard himself being cursed in a familiar American accent. Despite the expletives being uttered from her lips, she still hadn’t looked up and smiling to himself, Edgar walked over to her, placed his umbrella above her, waiting for her to raise her head.

Evadne was having a truly bad day. It had begun with Betty, the Lannis’ London housekeeper, announcing that she was leaving them to get remarried. Though she would miss her terribly, Evvy was very happy for Betty, who had been through a horrendous ordeal both during and after the war, and deserved all the happiness she could get. It did, however, mean the need for a new housekeeper, so Evadne had headed out to an agency in nearby Belgravia to register for new help. After an arduous hour detailing her needs to the supremely snobbish and not-particularly-bright girl behind the agency desk, Evvy had just left the office when the heavens opened. She pulled out her umbrella, which was promptly turned inside out by the wind, leaving her with nothing but a small purse to shield her from the torrential downpour. Setting off at a run towards Eccleston Street, from where she hoped to be able to hail a taxicab, she had managed to get her heel stuck in a drain, and try as she might, she could not pull it out. Crouching down, yanking at her shoe with all her strength, she was just thinking that her day could not get any worse when she heard a squeal of breaks from behind her and she was engulfed by a sudden wave of water, ensuring she was soaked through to the bone.

Uttering expletives that she knew would have turned her old Headmistress's hair white should she have overheard them, Evvy continued to pull at her heel, determined to at least save her shoes in all this mess, when she became aware of the fact that someone had got out of the car and stopped beside her. Her heel came free at that moment, and looking around she noticed a pair of highly polished shoes and expensively tailored trousers, and she stood up, still furious, turning to look at their owner.

“You bl…” The words died on her tongue as she found herself staring up into Edgar’s apologetic, smiling face. “Oh, it’s you.”

“Hi Evvy. You okay?

“Do I look okay?” She had lowered her voice, but was still in a filthy temper and not inclined to be particularly polite.

"Well, no actually, you look like you’re having a bit of a bad day.”

“Can’t think what gave that away.” He moved his umbrella over her to make sure she was fully covered, and she looked up at it with a certain amount of scorn. “No offence, Edgar, but that’s not going to do a whole heap of good right now, is it? Was that your car that deluged me just then?” she added staring at the large automobile parked a few feet away.

Edgar gave her another apologetic smile. “Er, yes, sorry about that. My driver couldn’t avoid it I’m afraid. Some chap ran out in front of him and he had to swerve.” He noticed her shivering as he spoke, and he looked at her with some concern. “You poor thing, you’re absolutely frozen you’ll catch your death if we stand here any longer. Look, my flat’s just around the corner. What say you hop in and come back there with me have some tea whilst you dry out a bit and warm up. It’s the least I can do.” Noticing her hesitation, he hurriedly added, “That’s if you’ve nowhere else to be of course.”

Evadne was still somewhat cross, and was just about to turn his offer down, when she suddenly realised that it was still quite a walk back to Kensington, she was frozen, and his offer made a lot of sense. “That would be good, thanks.”

Edgar smiled. “Excellent. Come along then, the sooner we get you out of this rain and into somewhere warm, the better,” and taking her arm he steered her towards the waiting car.


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:09 am; edited 3 times in total

 


#221:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 4:34 pm


Well, thank goodness for that. What kept him? Isn't he slow? We know she's the right woman for him, so how much longer is he going to take to realise it?

 


#222:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 4:36 pm


Thank you Jo! Welcome back - glad you had a good time! Poor Evvy, what a horrid day! But glad she gets to spend more time with Edgar!

 


#223:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 4:55 pm


Yay Jo is backed!! Im glad you had a great time Very Happy Poor, poor Evvy, what an awful day, but on the upside Edgar, aka knight-in-shining-armour was very handily nearby.

 


#224:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 5:17 pm


hurrah thanks Jo! Very Happy (glad I asked so nicely!) Lovely Edgar, although I do feel sorry for Evvy standing there all soaking wet having had a rubbish day. Hope his good mood rubs off on her a bit.

 


#225:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 5:51 pm


Awww! Poor Evvy! But i'm sure the dreadful day will prove to have been worth it in the end!! Good to see you back Jo!

 


#226:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 6:17 pm


Hurrah Jo - ours (if she doesn't mind being called that) not Bettany - Evadne & Edgar are back! Mexican Wave Liz

 


#227:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 6:27 pm


Welcome back, Jo. Glad you had a good time. Poor old Evvy. That'll teach her to wear high heels! At least he knows what he's letting himself in for, hearing her 'best' language.

 


#228:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 6:42 pm


Hehe I bet Evvy will blush over that last meeting in the future!

 


#229:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 6:59 pm


Thank you Josie -that was lovely! Laughing

 


#230:  Author: nikkieLocation: Cumbria PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 7:18 pm


Typical Evvy Laughing

 


#231:  Author: DawnLocation: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 8:28 pm


Glad you had a good time and thankyou for a very shiny (if somewhat damp) update Very Happy

 


#232:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 9:33 pm


Welcome back Josie LOL, that was funny, and so typically Evvy. Lovely JackieJ

 


#233:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Feb 01, 2005 10:11 pm


very shiny!!! poor Evvy - sounds like she's had a helluva day to cope with!

 


#234:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 12:10 am


Lovely coincidence. Very Happy (Welcome back, Jo!)

 


#235:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 1:53 am


Poor Evvy. I hope that she managed to get her heel out of the grate! And that she doesn't get a cold. Quick! Administer Brandy!!

 


#236:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 1:57 am


Jo! You're back! Spiffing to see you again old thing! Wink *Grovels - I promise to catch up soon, honest! But as you can see by the time, it's rather late Embarassed and I hear my bed calling me... so I'll save catching up for another night Twisted Evil *

 


#237:  Author: Rachael PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 8:52 am


Great to have you and Evvy & Egdar back ... and good to see they're both on form Thanks Jo! Very Happy *has high hopes for a scene in the flat to push this romance along*

 


#238:  Author: kerenLocation: Israel PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 10:15 am


First thing, I looked for this. Imagine, someone comes back from a trip, and first thing they do is put up the next espisode in the drabble. Thanks a lot for the effort!

 


#239:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 1:20 pm


Rachael wrote:
*has high hopes for a scene in the flat to push this romance along*

Okay, Rachael, you've twisted my arm! Laughing Wink


“Here you go, here’s a towel and there’s a jumper and spare pair of trousers for you on the bed. They’ll be a bit large I’m afraid, but at least they’re dry. The trousers are my stepmother’s, so hopefully they won’t be too bad. I’ll leave you in peace to change, just come on through to the front room when you’re ready,” and with a smile, Edgar shut the door behind him.

Evadne went into the small en-suite bathroom, stripping off her wet clothes and hanging them over the rack that Edgar had set up above the bath. Then returning to the bedroom, she pulled on the dry clothes he had laid out, and sat down on the bed, looking around her. The room was sparsely furnished, just a bed, dresser, armchair and wardrobe, and it was clear the flat was merely a place to stay as opposed to a home. It was only prevented from looking like a hotel guestroom by two photographs that stood on the dresser – one of three young children playing on a lawn, the other of a beautiful, delicate-looking woman, her face full of laughter. Smiling, Evvy got to her feet, and made her way out into the hall.

She found Edgar crouched over, lighting the fire, and he looked up with a grin when she came into the room, a grin which soon turned into a laugh when he saw what she looked like. Evadne just reached five feet four in height, and was petite in build. Edgar’s jumper was made for his broad, six foot frame, and literally swamped her. Even Amelia’s trousers hung loosely on her hips and trailed around her feet. She looked down at herself and returned his grin.

“Very chic, don’t you think?”

“Oh, very. A little on the large side, perhaps, but I hear that’s the look these days.”

Evadne laughed. “If I’d actually fitted into your jumper properly, I’d have shot myself! So, is one of these teas for me?” she said, looking at the tray he had set down on the table.

“Absolutely! Help yourself,” he replied, pulling a chair nearer to the fire as she poured herself a cup. “Here you are, sit yourself down here, you’ll be warm in no time.”

She gave him a grateful smile as she made her way across to the chair. “Thanks for this, Edgar. I’m sorry I was so rude to you out on the street. Guess I just lost my temper with everything going wrong. I shouldn’t have taken it out on you though.”

“Don’t be, really. I’m sure I’d have been equally rude if it had been me.”

“Somehow I doubt it.”

Edgar grinned. “Well, my vocabulary isn’t so wide-ranging, so perhaps not quite.” Evvy looked at him, mortified, then seeing the twinkle in his eye, she laughed and relaxed. He stared at her as she curled herself up in the chair. “Don’t think any more about it, okay? We’ll pretend it never happened.”

“Deal.” Evvy gave him a smile and took a sip of her tea, staring around the room. Edgar watched her as she did so, thinking to himself how naturally pretty she was. There was no doubt that she was beautiful, he had realised that when he’d first met her, but she had been made up then, ready for a night on the town. Now, curled up in his chair, swamped in the over-sized clothes, her damp curls tumbling loose around her shoulders, she had a fragile prettiness that he found attracted him far more.

Shaking himself out of his reverie, he followed her gaze and saw that she was looking at a photo of his wife that stood on a table nearby. “That’s Madeleine.”

She turned to look at him. “She’s just as pretty as I remembered.” He gave her a sad smile, and she gazed over at him, her eyes full of sympathy. “I’m so sorry to hear what happened, Edgar. Elsie told me all about the illness and what you went through.” She swallowed hard before continuing, “I lost someone once too, so I know something of how it feels.”

Edgar looked at her, his eyes soft. “I know you did.”

“You do? How?”

“I remember Elsie telling me, the first time I met you, just after the war.”

Evadne stared at him in surprise. “I can’t believe that I couldn’t even remember you, and you can remember details like that! I manage to get ruder by the minute, don’t I?”

Edgar smiled. “You’re not rude at all. I remember because it made me realise how lucky I was at the time, and I was so impressed with the way you handled yourself. I reminded myself of that a few times when I was trying to come to terms with my wife’s death.” He paused, and Evvy looked at him, thinking how kind his face was. He was good looking, and his face lacked the arrogance of many English upper class men, making his kindly green eyes and wide smile shine all the more. He looked down at his hands for a minute, and then continued. “I’ve learnt to deal with things now, though it’s still a bit hard at times. It helps to have the children, you know, they’re a godsend when I’m feeling a bit down. They remind me why it was worth rebuilding my life.”

“Ralph and I never got as far as kids.”

Edgar stared at her, his eyes very tender. “Do you mind me asking what happened, Evvy? Don’t feel you have to tell me, if you’d rather not,” he added, seeing the hesitation on her face.

Evadne saw the look in his eyes, and realised, to her surprise, that she didn’t mind him asking, that he seemed to understand how she felt. She looked down at her fingers and smiled. “I don’t mind you asking at all. There’s not too much to tell really. He was in the army air corps during the war, got shot down over the Mediterranean when he was stationed in North Africa in ‘43. They never even found his body. We were engaged at the time we were planning to marry as soon as he could get back to England, but he never made it. ” She paused for a moment and took a deep breath. “I guess it just wasn’t meant to be.”

“Oh, Evvy, I’m so sorry.” His voice was full of sympathy as he spoke. “At least I got to have the children, and some of my life with Madeleine. Makes me feel lucky, listening to you.”

“Well, you are in a way, I guess, but it’s all relative, Edgar. I can’t imagine what you went through with the illness and everything. At least I didn’t have to face anything like that, so in a way I’m lucky too.” She grinned at him, “Anyhow, let’s talk about something a bit more cheerful, shall we? What have you been up to since new year? It’s months since I last saw you.”

Edgar replied, and they soon settled down into a relaxed conversation, talking about anything and everything that had gone on in their lives over the past few months. They had so much to say that time simply flew by, and it was with some shock that Evadne checked her watch and saw that almost five hours had passed. Realising that if she didn’t leave now she would be late for dinner with her father, who was in town, she jumped up and ran off to get changed, her clothes now fully dry, if a little creased.

Edgar got up to see her out, and as she opened the door she turned to him and held out her hand. “Thanks so much, Edgar, I’ve had a really terrific afternoon. You’ve cheered up my day no end."

He was scribbling on a piece of paper as she spoke, and he finished what he was writing before he looked up and shook her hand. “Yes, it’s been a lot of fun. You know, Evvy, if you ever need to talk to someone who understands, if things get too much or anything, or even if you just fancy a chat, you know where I am now, and here are my details in Wiltshire too.”

He handed her the piece of paper and she smiled, taking the pen off him and writing down her number, before tearing it off and handing it back to him. “Same goes for you.”

Edgar hesitated for a minute, and looked at her. “Listen, Paul and Elsie are coming down to us for the weekend in a month or so. If you’re free, why don’t you join us? It would be lovely to have you, and you can meet my little horrors too.”

Evadne grinned. “I’d like that. Thanks.”

“Wonderful! Talk to Elsie and Paul about getting down, and we’ll look forward to seeing you. Goodbye, Evvy. See you then, if not before.”

“Bye, Edgar, and thanks again for this afternoon.”

“You’re welcome.” She smiled at him and turned to walk down the stairs, feeling as if the day hadn’t been a wash out after all she’d made a good new friend.

Edgar watched her as she walked down the stairs, and when he could no longer see her, he closed the door with a smile. He was aware he would have to take things slowly if he wanted to get closer to her, but he knew now, beyond doubt, that he’d be prepared to wait.


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:14 am; edited 2 times in total

 


#240:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 1:28 pm


Josie, thank you - that was lovely. Feeling all warm and snuggly now. Good to have something nice to read with my lunch too!

 


#241:  Author: Rachael PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 1:35 pm


Oh how totally lovely! Very Happy Edgar is so strong and gorgeous and I can't wait for Evvy to realise he's "the one" ... (Can't help giggling that their relationship will be based on agreeing to forget lots of unfortunate incidents!! Laughing ) So, Jo, what happens if I twist your arm a little more? Wink

Last edited by Rachael on Wed Feb 02, 2005 1:35 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#242:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 1:35 pm


Awww that was lovely!

 


#243:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 1:39 pm


A lovely scene! I do like them both. thanks Josie.

 


#244:  Author: DawnLocation: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 2:17 pm


Simply wonderful Josie, thankyou

 


#245:  Author: Caroline OSullivanLocation: Reading, Berkshire, UK PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 2:23 pm


Thank you Josie. That was wonderful Very Happy Looking forward to seeing Ned, Thea and Marcia's reactions - after Tamara they're bound to be suspicious.

 


#246:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 2:26 pm


*feels warm and fluffy* I wonder what the children will make of Evvy........

 


#247:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 2:29 pm


awww lovely warm and fuzzy really glad Edgar has seen the light - now it's evvy's turn.....

 


#248:  Author: KathyeLocation: Laleham PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 2:54 pm


She goes home to recover from jet lag Crying or Very sad

 


#249:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 3:03 pm


That was so fuzzy as to be delicious, Josie! Many thanks!

 


#250:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 4:04 pm


Jo, that was lovely. I'm so glad that Edgar and Evvy can share the sad things in their past as well as laughing together. Liz

 


#251:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 6:15 pm


Awwww, lovely, thanks Jo Very Happy

 


#252:  Author: aliLocation: medway, kent PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 8:07 pm


Just what I needed after a really crappy day. I got into my car tonight and cheered myself up by contemplating an hour on cbb catching up with my favourite drabbles, and it's worked.

 


#253:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 8:22 pm


awwww bless them glad they're bonding well - can't wait for Evvy to meet the children!

 


#254:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 8:36 pm


That was so lovely, so natural. Thanks Josie. Kiss

 


#255:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 8:39 pm


I'm glad that Edgar has realised at last! Men, honestly!

 


#256:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Wed Feb 02, 2005 9:06 pm


That was wuvverwy Jo *hopes there's no more hiccups* JackieJ

 


#257:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 1:40 am


Jo, that was lovely!! Can't wait for Evvy to meet the kids! Hope it goes well!

 


#258:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 1:50 am


Very fluffly and sweet. Look forward to the description of the weekend. Hope Evvy moderates her language around the kids! Where did she learn to swear so profficiently? And is it in English, German or French?

 


#259:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 9:58 am


Well, since Evvy is just a big child herself, in some ways, she'll probably take to them and they'll take to her.

 


#260:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 4:49 pm


Edgar was in his study trying to complete some last minute work before his guests arrived. It was now the end of June and the weekend visit he had mentioned to Evadne was finally about to happen. It had been due to take place a month previously, but mid-May had seen Tom and Lily struck down with chicken pox, and they had had to wait until both were out of quarantine before the visit could go ahead. Now they were due to arrive just after midday, and Edgar was trying to ensure that he had everything done for a conference he was attending in Paris the following week, so that he could enjoy the weekend with a clear conscience.

He was almost finished, when he was interrupted for the umpteenth time by the sound of shouting coming from upstairs. The two girls had been instructed to tidy the nursery, and had been bickering on and off all morning about who should do what. Finally, Amelia had taken a hand and sat with them until they had finished it as amicably as possible, and then both had been sent to tidy their bedrooms in the hope that keeping them apart might enable the rest of the morning to pass in peace. However, from the sounds emanating from upstairs, something had set them off again, and laying down his pen with a sigh, Edgar rose from his seat and headed upstairs to find out what was going on.

“I’m not in your room!”

“You are too!”

“Not!”

“Yes you are! Get out!”

Edgar rounded the corner of the hallway, just in time to see a doll come flying out of Thea’s room, missing Marcia’s head by millimeters, and hitting the wall on the other side before falling to the ground. Marcia turned round to pick it up, and was just about to hurl it back at her sister when, out of the corner of her eye, she caught sight of her father and stopped in her tracks.

“I’ll take that, thank you very much.”

Realising from her father’s tone of voice that she was in trouble again, Marcia handed over the doll and looked up at him with her big, green eyes, an angelic expression on her face. Appearing in the doorway at that moment to demand the return of her toy, Thea was about to berate her sister again when she noticed Edgar and hastily closed her mouth, a guilty expression on her face and her eyes on the doll he now held in his hands.

“Yours, I believe.” He stared at her as she sheepishly took the doll from him, then he looked from one to the other. “Now, who’d like to tell me what’s going on? Thea?”

“Nothing, Daddy.”

“Well, it didn’t look like nothing to me. Why did you throw your doll at your sister?”

“’Cause she was in my room.”

“Wasn’t!”

“Was I talking to you?” Marcia went bright red under her father’s gaze and shook her head, and he turned back to Thea again. “That was no reason to throw anything at her, Thea, you could have hurt her. You should know better than that by now. Apologise to Marcia please.” She hung her head and mumbled an apology, and deciding it was the best he could hope for, he turned to face Marcia.

“Now, madam, what were you doing in your sister’s room?”

“I wasn’t in her room.”

“Well, what were you doing standing just outside her room then?” Shocked to be rumbled so easily, Marcia looked down at her feet. “Come on, I’m waiting.”

“Nothing.”

“Really?” Marcia went red again and mumbled something incoherent. “Speak up please, Marcia, we haven’t got all day, and I intend to get to the bottom of this.”

“Was calling her names.”

“And may I ask why?”

“’Cause she called me names earlier.”

“Yes, and she got told off for that at the time, and you were hardly innocent in all that either. I thought Granny told you to go and tidy your room.”

Have tidied it.”

“Then why didn’t you come downstairs instead of deliberately coming to annoy Thea? I thought you were more grown up than that, but clearly I was wrong.” At this insult to her five-year-old dignity, tears came to Marcia’s eyes. “Do you want to spend all weekend confined to your bedroom?” She shook her head as she tried to hold back her tears, and Thea turned horrified eyes on her father.

“Oh Daddy, you can’t do that!”

“Well then Marcia’s got to learn to behave. Have you finished your room, Thea?” She nodded. “Then how about you run down and find Granny, she has to go to the village to get some things and you can go with her.” Shooting a sympathetic look at her sister, Thea ran off and Edgar turned back to his youngest daughter. “Now, you go back to your room and have a think about whether you can behave or not. Go on,” he added as she opened her mouth to speak, and seeing nothing for it, she turned and went back to her bedroom.

Edgar sighed and returned to his study to finish his work. Half an hour later he had everything completed, and after tidying his papers, he made his way back upstairs to Marcia’s room. She was lying on her bed, her face red and tear-stained, and she looked up as he came through the door.

“I’m sorry, Daddy.”

Her voice choked as she spoke, and Edgar came over and sat on the edge of the bed. “Do you think you can behave properly for the rest of the weekend?” She nodded her head, and taking out his handkerchief, he reached over and dried her tears. “Right then, we’ll say no more about it. Just try and be a good girl, okay? As you know, there’s a lady coming who’s never met you before, and you don’t want her to think you’re naughty, do you?”

Marcia shook her head and wriggled herself around so she was cuddled up against his side. “Is she a nice lady?”

“Yes, darling, she’s very nice. She’s a friend of Auntie Elsie’s”

“What’s her name?”

“Miss Lannis.”

“Can we call her Auntie, like Auntie Elsie?”

“I don’t know, poppet. She may let you call her Auntie Evvy, but you’ll have to ask her that yourself.”

“I will.”

He looked down at her with a smile and ruffled her blonde curls. “Jolly good. Now, how about we get some juice, and then we can go and play outside ‘til Granny and Thea get back. What do you say?”

“Yes please.” She wriggled down off the bed and turned to look at him. “Can I pick some flowers for Auntie Elsie and her friend?”

“Yes, if you like.”

Marcia gave him a beaming smile, and taking her by the hand, Edgar led her from the bedroom and they made their way downstairs.


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:19 am; edited 3 times in total

 


#261:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 4:55 pm


Of course she'll let them call her Auntie Evvy. That was lovely Jo, you really seem to have the knack of writing the kiddies. JackieJ

 


#262:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 5:14 pm


Awww Marcia is a sweetie!

 


#263:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 8:18 pm


Awwwww!!!! Jo!!! They are SO real! Thank you!

 


#264:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 8:32 pm


Lovely Jo! Edgar is such a good father.

 


#265:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 8:48 pm


very CS approach to discipline there! I really wanted to pick Marcia up and give her a hug when she came to say she was sorry. I hope Evvy falls in love with them instantly.....just like she has with their daddy even if she doesn't know it yet.

 


#266:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Feb 03, 2005 10:35 pm


Awwww, that was soooooo loverly! Laughing

 


#267:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 1:16 am


Josie that was so lovely! C'mon Evvy!

 


#268:  Author: Rachael PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 9:21 am


God to see Edgar being such a good father - bless him and bless the kids ... but frankly I'd like to scoot over to Elsie and Paul's - please?

 


#269:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 9:30 am


Lovely thank you Jo! Edgar's such a great father and the kids are so real and v sweet!

 


#270:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 10:44 am


Will Elsie and Paul at Edgar's do for you, Rachael? Very Happy Wink

BTW, according to EBD, they know each other for two years before they get together and over three years before they get engaged, so a little while yet before Evvy's penny fully drops! But just think, you get to see them fall in love over the next eighteen months or so. Very Happy


“Mummy, are we nearly there yet?”

“Tom, for the last time, will you please get your feet out of the back of my seat. And yes, we’re just turning into the driveway now, look. You remember this, don’t you?”

Tom stopped kicking the back of his mother’s seat and turned to look out of the window. Seeing the familiar gates that were the entrance to the Watson’s farmland, he answered affirmatively and stopped his moaning, settling down in the knowledge that he would soon be out of the car. Evadne looked up from trying to entertain Lily and followed his gaze. She gave a whistle as she saw the land stretching out on both sides, just able to make out the walls in the distance that marked where the farmland ended and the estate began.

“Is all of this really his? How the deuce does he look after it all?”

Elsie turned round in her seat, a grin on her face. “He doesn’t, not the farmland anyway. He’s got a team of people that look after that, he just does the finances and stuff. He does run the estate though, that starts behind that wall over there. Heaps of the staff have gone now, so think he’s just down to the butler, gardener, a couple of maids and the cook.”

“Sounds like something out of a Jane Austen!”

“Yes, it is a bit!” replied Elsie with a laugh, her hand reaching behind her to grab her son’s legs as they began kicking her chair again. As she spoke, Paul drove the car between the another set of gates set in a high stone wall, turned a corner and began to sweep downhill as a view opened up across the vast gardens and the house set in the shallow valley below. Evadne gaped as she looked at the vista.

“Wow! What a beautiful house.” A frown crossed her face as her thoughts wondered slightly, “Must be a devil to clean though, don’t think I could do it!”

Paul chuckled. “Trust you to think of something like that!” He pulled the car up in the wide forecourt and turned off the engine. “Okay Tom, we’re here now so you can stop tormenting your mother.”

They were just climbing out of the car when they heard the sound of childish voices, and Thea and Marcia appeared round the side of the house, their hands full of flowers. They ran across the courtyard, shedding blooms in their wake, and threw themselves on their brevet aunt and uncle who greeted them with hugs and kisses as their father appeared behind them, a wide smile on his face.

“What time do you call this then?”

Paul grimaced as he shook his friend’s hand. “I know, sorry old chap, took us a bit longer to get someone in the car this morning,” he said with a look at his son, who was tugging excitedly at Thea’s arm as that young lady handed her flowers over to Elsie, who in turn was trying to balance Lily on one arm and take the blooms with her free hand.

Feeling uncharacteristically shy, and not entirely sure why, Evadne was standing to the side watching all this go on when she became aware of a bunch of somewhat crushed flowers being thrust in her direction.

“I picked these for you.”

She crouched down to take them, and smiled as she looked at the blonde-haired little girl in front of her. “Thanks sweetie, they’re beautiful.” She held them up to her nose. “And they smell wonderful. I’ll be sure to put them in my room, make it real nice and pretty.” Marcia beamed at her, pleased with the reaction her flowers had received, and Evvy gave her another smile. “What’s your name?”

“I’m Marcia, and that’s Thea,” Marcia replied, pointing at her sister who was regarding Evadne slightly suspiciously from her vantage point next to Elsie. “You’re Miss Lannis, I know that. I wanted to call you Auntie Evvy, but Daddy said I had to ask you first.” She had spoken all of this without taking a breath, and as she paused for air, Evvy looked up at Edgar who was watching her with a smile on his face.

“Did he now? Well, I’d like that a lot. You can call me Auntie Evvy from now on if you’d like.” Marcia gave her another beaming smile, as Edgar came over with his other daughter clinging to his hand, and Evadne turned to look Thea in the face, thinking what a contrast she made to Marcia, with her straight dark hair and deep brown eyes. “You must be Thea then?”

Thea stared at her for a minute, then moved slightly behind her father’s leg, refusing to return Evadne’s smile. Edgar put his hand on his daughter’s head and tried to pull her back round in front of him. “Thea, aren’t you going to say hello?”

Thea shook her head, and Evvy stood up, thinking it best not to push things. Edgar looked at her, slightly embarrassed. “Sorry, Evvy, she’s not normally this shy.”

Evadne smiled at him and shook her head. “Don’t worry about it. I’m sure it can be a bit much meeting someone new sometimes.” Seeing that she wasn’t expected to talk to her father’s friend, Thea pulled her hand from his grasp and made her way back over to where Tom and Marcia were chattering away at Elsie, as Paul tried to unpack the car. Evvy watched her go, then turned back to her host. “How are you anyway, Edgar?” she said as she shook his hand. “Thanks so much for inviting me. You have a beautiful home by the way.”

“Thanks Evvy. I’m glad you could make it, I…” Whatever he was about to say was drowned out by his daughters shouting and they turned to see what was going on. Thea had hold of Elsie’s hand and was tugging her towards the front door, Tom following them and giggling. “But you have to come and say hello to Millicent Mary, Auntie Elsie, you know her.”

Elsie was laughing and letting herself be tugged along, and suddenly remembering Evadne, Marcia came running over and grabbed her hand. “Auntie Evvy, come and see Millicent Mary,” and she began to drag Evadne in the direction of the house.

Letting the little girl pull her along, Evvy turned to Edgar, giving him a quizzical look. “Who’s Millicent Mary?”

Edgar looked back at her, a broad grin on his face and a twinkle in his eye. “Millicent Mary would be the family pet. You’ll see soon enough,” he added, as she opened her mouth to ask him another question. He strolled along beside them, refusing to say another word, and looking at him suspiciously, Evadne let Marcia drag her across the forecourt, wondering exactly what she about to ‘meet’.


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:22 am; edited 2 times in total

 


#271:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 11:27 am


awww bless Marcia. Hope thea comes round soon and we might just forgive you the time frame Jo, as long as it's all this shiny!

 


#272:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 11:42 am


Marica is soo sweet and I'm sure Thea will come round in time. Looking forward to Evvy's reaction to Milicent Mary! Laughing Thank you Jo - and EBD's time frame means we get even more of this!

 


#273:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 12:24 pm


Im more worried about Ned, seen as he was so suspicious of Tamara. Thanks Josie, Marcia is so lovely Very Happy

 


#274:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 12:39 pm


Hehe bet Evvy is going to love Millicent Mary!

 


#275:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 12:41 pm


Lovely, Josie. I don't think we will object to this continuing for three years Wink

 


#276:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 1:59 pm


Shocked Just so long as we're not waiting 3 years real time Jo. The kiddies were again lovely, esp. Marcia. Thank you Jo. JackieJ

 


#277:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 1:59 pm


Thanks Jo Very Happy

 


#278:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 4:09 pm


awwww Marcia is so cute and I can quite understand Thea being suspicious of Evvy -I just hope she gets over it quickly.

 


#279:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 4:10 pm


Entering the hallway, Evadne noticed Elsie, Lily, Thea and Tom crowded round a large animal that was stood over to one side. Still mystified as to what it could be, she stepped forward to look, when Elsie suddenly moved and she caught her first full glimpse of Millicent Mary in all her hairy splendour. Unable to stop herself, she let out a laugh, which she hastily turned into a coughing fit in order not to offend Marcia, who was looking at her with eager eyes. Seeing what had happened, and trying very hard not to laugh himself, Edgar moved forward and patted her on the back, pretending to ease her coughs.

Her hand still over her mouth, Evvy turned slightly so she was facing him. “Horse?” she whispered, trying not to giggle again.

“Dog,” came the muffled reply, as Edgar, infected by her giggles, had his hand over his own mouth trying not to show his amusement.

Hastily, Evadne pulled herself together and turned to face Marcia, who was still holding onto her hand.

“Are you okay, Auntie Evvy?” she said, turning concerned eyes on her new brevet aunt.

“Yes thanks, sweetie, I just swallowed the wrong way, that’s all. How about you introduce me to this magnificent dog of yours then?”

Marcia, who had not heard the whispered exchange between Edgar and Evvy, looked up at her with a huge grin, very pleased that her new friend seemed to immediately know what Millicent Mary was. Even her father had not known that. She pulled Evadne towards the creature, and patted it on the head as she made her proud introduction.

“This is Millicent Mary. She’s our dog, ‘cause Daddy wouldn’t let us have a real one, so we made her instead with Auntie Elsie and Uncle Paul.”

“Well, she’s a mighty fine dog, I must say,” returned Evvy, patting the dog’s ‘head’ as she spoke. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Thea watching her with interest, and she turned towards her. “Did you help make her too, Thea?” The small girl looked at her for a moment then nodded, a faint ghost of a smile touching her lips.

Before Evvy could say anything more to her, she felt Tom tugging on her sleeve. “Me too, Auntie Evvy!”

“Well, she’s really terrific, you’re all very clever.”

“Excuse me, but I helped make her too,” Elsie put in with mock indignation. “Does that not make me clever as well?” “Yes, but I’ll bet you didn’t do all that much to help, just stood and held the glue or something, which actually makes you very lazy as opposed to very clever,” Evvy retorted. “Am I right?” she asked the children, a wicked grin on her face. Marcia and Tom nodded and giggled, and even Thea gave her a fleeting smile. “I knew it, you can’t fool me, Elsie Rodwell.”

Elsie grimaced at her and was about to retaliate when she noticed her daughter had fallen asleep against her shoulder, and deciding retribution could wait for later, she turned to her host. “Edgar, are we in our normal room? I think I need to get Lily down for her nap.”

“Yes, you know where to go.” Elsie nodded and headed up the stairs, and he turned to face Evadne, “Come on Evvy, I’ll take you up and show you where you’re sleeping too.”

“Can I show her, Daddy?”

He turned to Marcia with a smile. “Yes, poppet, if you like. In that case Thea, you and Tom come with me and we’ll go and see if we can help Uncle Paul to bring things in, shall we?” and he turned and led them back out into the forecourt, leaving Evvy and Marcia to climb the stairs.

They made their way up to the guest room which had been assigned to Evadne for the weekend, Marcia chattering non-stop as they went. Always happy to engage in conversation at any level, Evvy gladly answered her back, and by the time they reached her room, she had already learnt a great deal about the Watson family, from the fact that Ned was away at school in Oxford, down to what they all ate for breakfast. When they reached the room Marcia clambered up onto the bed and sat herself down, turning round to face their guest.

“Auntie Evvy, you know you’re Auntie Elsie’s friend, and Uncle Paul’s and Tom’s and Lily’s and Daddy’s?”

“Yes?”

“Well, will you be my friend too?”

Evvy looked at her with a grin. “Of course I will be. Will you be my friend too?”

Marcia nodded, and jumping down off the bed, she came across the room and hugged her new friend round the waist.

“What’s going on here then?” They both looked round as Edgar came into the room carrying Evvy’s case, and laid it down on the bed. “I hope you’re not bothering our guest too much, young lady.”

Evvy smiled and shook her head. “Not at all.”

Marcia released Evadne and came over to her father, a big grin on her face. “Daddy, Auntie Evvy says she’ll be my friend too.”

“Well, I’m very pleased to hear that,” he replied, ruffling her hair with his hand. “Now, how about you leave your friend in peace to get freshened up, and we go downstairs and find Granny, tell her our guests are here.” Marcia nodded and ran out of the room. “Make yourself at home, Evvy. We’ll be down in the front room when you’re done, it’s the first room to the right of the front door.”

“Thanks, I’ll be down shortly.”

“No rush, take your time.” He walked towards the door, and just before leaving the room, he turned back and looked at her with a smile. “I’m glad you came,” and with that he disappeared through the door, shutting it behind him, leaving Evadne to unpack her suitcase, very much looking forward to the weekend ahead.


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:25 am; edited 1 time in total

 


#280:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 5:02 pm


Why can't all little kids be like Marcia?

 


#281:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 5:29 pm


This is SO cute. After an absolutely appalling (and horrendously busy) week it is so nice to sit down, come on here and read all about happy fictional characters. Thanks Josie! Has really cheered up my day Very Happy

 


#282:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 5:55 pm


How sweet that Marcia is so friendly and outgoing. Thanks Josie. I'll echo Laura on the relief of the end of a horrendous week. I found myself making up a drabble of it in my head - but it's too far fetched for the CBB. Wink

 


#283:  Author: nikkieLocation: Cumbria PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 8:23 pm


patmac wrote:
I found myself making up a drabble of it in my head - but it's too far fetched for the CBB. Wink
I thought that would be impossible! Thanks josie the kids are so sweet!

 


#284:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 8:41 pm


Lovely posts, Josie- thank you. Laughing

 


#285:  Author: dackelLocation: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Fri Feb 04, 2005 9:11 pm


These last few post have been really lovely, they've made my evening! But I don't know if I've got the patience to wait another 18 (fictional) months...

 


#286:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 11:13 am


Oh but I wouldn't want to rush it - it'll be lovely to see Evvy's feelings gradually changing and them overcoming the inevitable obstacles (not convinced Tamara's had her last appearance yet, for instance). Thanks Jo Liz

 


#287:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 3:10 pm


Lots of nice, cheerful posts! Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy Auntie Evvy & co. are wunnerful. (And glad to hear we have another few years of this Very Happy)

 


#288:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 9:00 pm


“Well, Evvy, I think congratulations are in order.”

Evadne looked up from the conversation she was having with Paul and Amelia, and gave Edgar a puzzled look as he flopped himself down in a chair on the terrace, a wide grin on his face.

“They are? Why?”

“Unless I am very much mistaken, you are the first person ever to succeed in getting Marcia to out-talk herself! She barely uttered a peep the whole time she was getting ready for bed, and she was asleep almost before her head hit the pillow!”

Amelia chuckled at her stepson’s words and gave Evadne a pleading look. “I don’t suppose we can hire you as a full-time babysitter can we? Anyone that can cause Marcia to be quiet by bedtime deserves every penny they earn! She generally has at least another fifty questions that need answering and good few stories to tell you before she finally agrees to go to sleep!”

“I don’t suppose Evvy’s had the same influence on my son, has she?” Paul asked, looking up. He sighed as Edgar shook his head with a smile. “No, I suppose that was a bit much to ask.”

“Oh, it’s not as bad as all that. Elsie’s just reading him a story he got into bed quite willingly from what I heard. By the way, she said that I should remind you that you're on ‘tooth duty’ tonight and it would probably be a good idea if you went to bed soon. In fact, her exact words were ‘tell Paul I’m going to sleep when I’ve finished this, and that if he knows what’s good for him he won’t be far behind,’ and then she added something to the effect that if Lily woke her tonight you’d be lynched.”

Lily had been teething for the past week, and thanks to Paul’s succession of late nights for ‘work do’s’ and the resultant deep sleeps the whiskeys consumed at these ‘do’s’ had sent him into, Elsie had been the only one attending to her daughter’s late night crying all week, and she had barely had a wink of sleep. She had finally snapped that morning, and told her husband, in none too polite terms, that it was about time he took his turn looking after his daughter. It had been agreed, or rather he had been told, that he was on ‘tooth duty’ tonight, and on hearing his wife’s message Paul got resignedly to his feet, grimacing at Edgar who had delivered it with a supercilious smile.

“You couldn’t have enjoyed that just a little less?” Completely unrepentant, Edgar simply grinned at him, and as the other two laughed, Paul rolled his eyes, “No, of course you couldn’t. Okay folks, after that summons I suppose I’d better make tracks. When Elsie’s this sleep-deprived she’s as likely as not to act on any threat she issues, and I have no desire to begin the weekend by being lynched! Goodnight all, sleep well,” and to a chorus of ‘goodnight’ he disappeared through the french doors.

Evadne sat back in her chair and gazed across the lawns to the far side, where the sun was just beginning to set behind the trees. They had had a very pleasant Friday afternoon, playing in the garden with the children and taking a stroll through the grounds so that Evvy could get a sense of the place. Marcia had hardly left her side all day, and had talked so much that Edgar had been moved to threaten her with a muzzle. However, Evadne was extremely taken with the little girl and refused any offers he made to take Marcia away from her. Thea was still keeping her distance and refused to engage in any conversation with their guest, though Evadne had made a point of throwing the odd comment her way and had been rewarded with an occasional smile.

Dinner had been taken out on the terrace, as it was a balmy summer’s evening, and they had remained there talking and laughing, Elsie and Edgar disappearing off at nine o’clock when they suddenly realised it was time the children went to bed. Now, as Edgar and his stepmother chatted between them, Evvy took in her surroundings, soaking up the remains of the evening sun and thinking how beautiful it all was.

She was brought back down to earth by Amelia’s voice. “Right, time for a quick nightcap I think. Did you say Thea’s still reading, Edgar?”

“Yes, I told her she was allowed to read for half an hour or so.”

“Okay, well I’ll pop up and tuck her in, and then get some drinks on my way down. Evvy, what can I get you?”

Evadne looked up with a smile. “Nothing for me thanks. I’m gonna head to bed myself shortly. I reckon Marcia’s tired me out almost as much as she has herself!”

The other two laughed and Edgar turned to his stepmother. “Just a small one for me, Amelia, thanks.” Then, as she nodded and disappeared through the french doors, he turned back to face Evadne again. “Seriously, Evvy, if Marcia gets too much, please don’t hesitate to send her off to someone else. She can yatter like no child I’ve ever met when she really gets going!”

Evadne chuckled and shook her head. “Nonsense, it’s fine! She’s adorable, they both are.”

“Well, I like to think so, but then I am a bit biased!”

“No biased about it. Seriously, Edgar, you should be very proud. It can’t have been easy bringing them up alone.”

Edgar smiled. “Thanks, but I can’t take all the credit by any means. I’m not sure we’d have coped at all without Amelia being around. She’s been an absolute lifesaver these past few years.” He gave a sigh. “By the way, Evvy, I’m sorry about Thea, she’s not normally this reticent you know. I’m not sure what’s got into her.”

“Don’t worry about it, really. I’m well aware some kids take longer than others to warm up to new people.” Evadne returned his smile and sat back in her chair.

Silent for a moment as he gazed over at her, Edgar finally replied, “Yes, I suppose you’re right. So, are you enjoying yourself?”

“Yes, thanks, I’m having a swell time. You’re very lucky you know, Edgar, you’ve a terrific family and a wonderful home. I wondered how homey this place could be when I first saw it, but I’m amazed, it’s so warm and welcoming.” Looking around her, Evvy suddenly became aware that he was staring at her with an amused expression and she hastened to clarify what she’d just said. “Sorry, that didn’t come out quite right. I just meant ‘cause the house looks so imposing, that’s all.”

Edgar laughed. “Don’t worry, I know what you meant. It’s funny, I grew up here and that’s all it ever seemed to me – a large pile of imposing stone, a bit cold and empty really. I always felt far more at home at school I know my brothers thought the same. The influence of my somewhat severe parents I think,” he added with a frown. “It was one of my reservations about coming back to live here as it happens, but it feels the complete opposite these days.” He sat back, a broad smile lighting up his face. “I can’t tell you how much I love getting back here after having to stay up in London for work. I think it’s the influence of the children more than anything I just find them such a joy to be around.” Looking back over at Evadne, he gave a laugh, “Listen to me, the crashing parental bore!”

Evvy smiled at him. “Not at all. I think I’d be pretty happy to come home to kids like them too.” Getting to her feet, she put her hand over her mouth as she yawned. “Well, I think I’m gonna make a move to bed.”

“I really have bored you haven’t I?”

At his words, Evadne went bright red and began to protest, then looking at him she noticed the twinkle in his eyes and grimaced, shaking her head. “I fall for it every time you do that.”

Edgar laughed. “You’ll learn. Have you got everything you need?”

“Yes thanks, goodnight Edgar.”

“’Night Evvy, sleep well.”

Passing her as she went inside, Amelia bade her a goodnight and came across to the table with two tumblers. Picking his up, Edgar took a sip. “Everything okay with Thea?”

“Yes, she’s been as good as gold. She was just turning her light off when I got there in fact.”

“Good, good.” Taking another sip of his whiskey, Edgar put the glass down on the table and looked across at her. “Do you think she’ll be okay with Evvy? I don’t really understand why she’s acting so oddly,” he asked, frowning slightly.

Amelia was amused to see the concerned expression on his face. “Memories of Tamara I think, Edgar.”

“Yes, that’s what I thought, but it’s not quite the same, is it? I mean, Evvy’s just a friend.”

“True, but she’s still a stranger to Thea, remember. I’d be very surprised if she didn’t come round very soon Evvy’s a lovely girl, it won’t take Thea long to see that. I must say,” she added with a grin, “Marcia’s certainly taken to her – I’ve never seen her so adoring of anyone except for you!”

Edgar gave her a smile. “And you too, but yes, I know what you mean. Evvy certainly seems to have a fan! I’m glad she came down this weekend.” He paused and looked at his stepmother, a questioning eyebrow raised, “You like her then?”

“Yes, very much.”

“Jolly good.” He downed his drink and got to his feet. “Right, I’m going to turn in. We’ve a full weekend ahead.” Wishing his stepmother goodnight, he pecked her on the cheek and turned to head in through the terrace doors. Amelia watched him go, a knowing smile on her face, then chuckling to herself, she stood up, drained her own glass, and headed inside, shutting the doors behind her.


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:30 am; edited 3 times in total

 


#289:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 9:40 pm


Hopefully Amelia's approval will help Edgar realise just how much he likes Evvy. That was lovely though, thanks Josie. JackieJ

 


#290:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 9:42 pm


Wow, I just commented and you’re already back again! *impressed* Yes, I can see the evil Tamara would be enough to make Thea more than a little suspicious.
Quote:
”I wondered how homely this place could be when I first saw it, but I’m amazed, it’s so warm and welcoming.” Looking around her, Evvy suddenly became aware that he was staring at her with an amused expression and she hastened to clarify what she’d just said. “Sorry, that didn’t come out quite right. I just meant ‘cause the house looks so imposing, that’s all.”
She had to clarify this for me, too! In American terms, “homely” is downright insulting, and usually refers to a person’s looks rather than a building’s appearance. Took me a while to remember that you guys can use “homely” for “homey.” That girl’s been corrupted....:laughing:

 


#291:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 9:45 pm


Laughing thanks Kathy - will edit for 'authenticity'!! Wink

 


#292:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 9:47 pm


Josie that was wonderful- such a perfect happy family scene - why on Earth did it take them so long to get it together????? Laughing

 


#293:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 10:30 pm


Jo, thank you!! Those posts were WONDERFUL!!! Marcia is a darling!!!!

 


#294:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 10:37 pm


Lovely, Josie! this is such a nice family.

 


#295:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Sat Feb 05, 2005 11:34 pm


Kathy_S wrote:
Quote:
”I wondered how homely this place could be when I first saw it, but I’m amazed, it’s so warm and welcoming.” Looking around her, Evvy suddenly became aware that he was staring at her with an amused expression and she hastened to clarify what she’d just said. “Sorry, that didn’t come out quite right. I just meant ‘cause the house looks so imposing, that’s all.”
She had to clarify this for me, too! In American terms, “homely” is downright insulting, and usually refers to a person’s looks rather than a building’s appearance. Took me a while to remember that you guys can use “homely” for “homey.” That girl’s been corrupted....:laughing:
I remember a boyfriend's mom who commented that it was so nice seeing a modern girl who was still 'homely' when I brought cookies as a thank you for having me to dinner. I was very shocked - I'm no beauty queen, but still! Her husband gently pointed out that she meant 'homey' - she was a British ex-pat. I love the kiddies in this!

 


#296:  Author: KathyeLocation: Laleham PostPosted: Sun Feb 06, 2005 11:47 am


This is lovely Jo, Cant wait to see her become friends with Ned and Thea, am sure there are going to be a few bumps along the way, but when arnt there in relationships ! I just want to keep reading and reading this, and then I get to the end of the post Crying or Very sad

 


#297:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Sun Feb 06, 2005 12:22 pm


Thanks Jo, Marcie is lovely! Hoping the others realise how great Evvy is soon.

 


#298:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sun Feb 06, 2005 2:09 pm


That last scene was great! Really looking forward for Evvy realising that Edgar is the one!

 


#299:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sun Feb 06, 2005 3:07 pm


Glad Amelia approves!!! Wink Lovely scenes, thank you Jo Very Happy

 


#300:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 12:31 am


Hearing the sound of childish sobs, Evadne looked up from her book to see Edgar coming across the lawn, a tearful Thea lying in his arms, grazes clearly visible on her left leg. Throwing her book aside, she jumped to her feet just as Edgar came up the steps and onto the terrace.

“What happened? Is she okay?”

“She will be. Just a case of somebody doing exactly what they were told not to do, isn’t it?” he replied, looking down at his daughter with a rueful smile. Then, as Thea began to sob louder at his words, he bent to kiss her on the forehead, “It’s alright, darling, you’re not in trouble. I think you’ve given yourself enough of a punishment, don’t you?” Walking over to a sunlounger that stood to one side of the terrace, he gently lowered his daughter onto it and sat down next to her, turning his head around to face Evadne.

“Evvy, can you do me a favour? There’s a first aid box up in the main bathroom, can you run up and grab some cotton wool and disinfectant for me? Oh, and a bandage and safety pin too if you can carry them? Thanks,” then, as Evvy nodded and headed for the house, he turned back to his daughter. “Right, young lady, lets have a look at this leg of yours. Well, your ankle’s a bit swollen, but that’ll mend in a day or two, and none of these cuts look too serious. We’ll just get them cleaned up, and then I’ll see if I can hunt something out to cheer you up, okay?” Thea nodded, choking back her sobs, and Edgar bent his head to kiss the top of hers. “That’s my girl. Won’t be long now.”

A minute later, Evadne reappeared with the items from the first aid box, and it wasn’t long before they had her cuts cleaned and her ankle strapped up. Now she was cuddled up under a blanket on the sun lounger, a lollipop clutched in her hand, as Edgar and Evvy packed everything away.

“So what happened?”

“Despite being told not to, she and Tom insisted on running up the steep part of the bank where it’s really slippery, and she tripped just as she reached the top, turned on her ankle and fell backwards into the stream. The grazes are from where she caught her leg on the rocks on the way down. She’s lucky not to have done herself far more damage to be honest. Children, who’d have ‘em, eh?” He grinned at her and rolled his eyes as he spoke. “How’re you feeling, anyway?”

Evadne had woken that morning with a bad headache, and rather than join them down at the stream at the bottom of Edgar’s land, she had opted to stay up at the house with her book in the hope that it would clear by lunch and she could then enjoy the rest of her day. She gave Edgar a smile. “Much better, thanks. I’ll be right as rain by lunch. Do you want me to keep an eye on her for you?”

“Are you sure you wouldn’t mind? It’s just I promised Marcia I’d get on with teaching her to swim, otherwise I’d stay myself.”

“Of course I don’t mind! Now go on, scram, I’ll finish putting these away.”

Impulsively, Edgar bent down and pecked her on the cheek. “You’re an absolute gem, thank you,” and with a quick ‘be good’ to his daughter, he left the terrace and headed back down towards the stream. Evvy finished clearing away the first aid things, chuckling to herself as she did so. She could see Thea watching her closely, and as she went to take the things back into the house, she turned and smiled at the little girl.

“I’m going to get myself some juice, Thea, can I get you one?”

Thea stared at her for a second, then gave a shy grin. “Apple juice, please.”

“With a straw?”

Thea nodded, and Evvy smiled and winked. “Apple juice with a special straw coming right up,” and she headed into the house, feeling like she was finally about to make some progress, as these were the first words Thea had spoken directly to her all weekend.

Five minutes later she returned, two glasses of apple juice in her hands, one containing a straw with a ribbon tied around it. “Here you are, one apple juice with special straw, only served to princesses and very brave little girls.”

Thea giggled as she took the drink, and she stared at Evvy intently as that lady made her way back to her own sun lounger, setting her drink down beside it and pulling on her sunhat. “You don’t have a special straw.”

Evvy smiled. “Well, that’s because I am certainly not royalty, and rather than being a very brave little girl, I happen to be a very cowardly adult.” Thea giggled again, and Evvy took off her sunglasses as she looked over at her. “How’s your leg now, feeling any better?”

Nodding, Thea turned around to face her. “Yes thank you Au…” Her voice trailed off and her small cheeks went red as she looked at Evadne.

“Thea, would you like to call me Auntie Evvy, just as Marcia does?”

“Yes please,” came the shy reply, and Evadne sat up and grinned.

“Well that’s good, because if you’d called me Miss Lannis, then I’d have had to call you Miss Watson, and that would’ve gotten very tiresome, let me tell you!”

She took a sip of her drink, as Thea studied her curiously. “Auntie Evvy, where are you from?”

“Where am I from?” Evadne exclaimed in mock indignation, putting her drink down and shaking her head in an exaggerated manner. “You mean you can’t recognise an accent from the good ole U.S. of A.? What do they teach you at that school of yours?”

She was putting on a broad New York accent as she spoke, and Thea went off into a fit of giggles before she replied. “Don’t go to school, Granny teaches us at home.”

“Really? Well looks like I’ll be having words with that grandmother of yours, won’t I? Do you know where America is?”

Thea nodded, her shyness forgotten. “It’s over the sea. Granny showed me on my globe. It’s next to Canada, and President Truman is your President, I’ve seen a picture of him.”

“Have you now?” Evadne was impressed. “Well, looks like you know more than I do, I thought Donald Duck was our president!” As Thea giggled again, Evvy noticed her trying to shield herself from the sun. “Is the sun too hot for you, Thea?”

“A little bit.”

“Let’s move you into the shade then, shall we?” Getting up, she walked across to where the little girl lay, when she had a sudden idea. “”Forget that, I’ve had a brainwave! Wait here,” and she dashed off into the house, leaving Thea to stare after her in amazement. Ten minutes later she was back, looking somewhat dishevelled, and dragging behind her the two large clothes-horses from the laundry room, several large sheets draped over her shoulders.

Thea’s eyes opened to their widest extent as she saw the state of her. “What’s that for?”

Throwing the sheets down on her sunbed, Evvy turned round to look at her, a huge grin lighting up her face. “You’ll see,” she panted, slightly out of breath. “Now, you just pick up your drink and lay still, okay?” and still with no idea what was going on, Thea nodded and did as she was told.

And so it was that an hour later, returning exhausted and hungry from their morning playing in the stream, the others arrived on the terrace to be greeted with the sight of what appeared to be a large white tent. Curiously, Elsie made her way across to what looked like the front and was about to the lift one of the flaps when she was stopped by Evadne's strict voice.

“No entry without the password!”

“Well, I don’t know the password do I?”

“Entry denied, I’m afraid! Nobody’s allowed in without the password, except by special permission of her royal injured-ness, Princess Thea.”

The sound of giggling could be heard from within, and Elsie withdrew, defeated. Grinning, Edgar stepped up to the flap and coughed. “Er-erm. Excuse me, your highness, please can your humble father come in and see you?”

A muffled whispering followed, and then Thea’s voice rang out. “Enter, common subject.”

“Common?” Edgar mouthed indignantly at a giggling Paul, Elsie and Amelia, and he pulled back the flap and bent down, entering the tent. Inside, he was greeted with the sight of Evadne and his daughter, each sat on a sun lounger, wearing sunhats and sunglasses – Thea had borrowed Evadne’s spare hat and was having trouble seeing out from under the brim. He grinned at the vision, and made his way over, still crouching, to perch on the end of Thea’s bed. “So, I gather the patient’s feeling a little better then?”

“Yes thanks, Daddy. Do you like my castle? Auntie Evvy made it for me.”

Edgar shot Evadne a grin, and then looked back at his daughter. “Yes darling, it’s wonderful. Have you had fun with Auntie Evvy then?”

“Yes, lots!”

“Well, I’m glad! Now, if you’re both hungry, and not too grand, I think cook has lunch ready. Are you interested?” Getting affirmative answers from both, he stood up again to a crouching position, and lifting Thea from the bed, he mouthed a ‘thank you’ to Evadne and backed his way out of the tent.


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:36 am; edited 2 times in total

 


#301:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 1:17 am


Fabulous. Those kids are wonderful. Love all the new updates. Glad Edgar is taking things slowly but glad Evvy is a big hit with the girls. Wonder how Ned will take to her?

 


#302:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 5:06 am


Ah, that was lovely! Thanks Josie.

 


#303:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 7:25 am


Lovely Josie. Evvy certainly has the touch when it comes to children!

 


#304:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 9:16 am


Thanks Jo that post was great! It was just like something Evvy would have done as a middle in Tyrol!

 


#305:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 9:45 am


That brought tears to my eyes.

 


#306:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 11:22 am


Wonderful! Thank you Jo!

 


#307:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 11:26 am


Thanks Josie, as usual, that was lovely. I'm so glad Evvy was able to get past Thea's barriers. Liz

 


#308:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 1:23 pm


those kids are just so lovely! and evvy is fab with them too thanks Jo

 


#309:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 3:21 pm


Just a little bit to finish off the weekend...

The remainder of the weekend passed in relative peace. True, on the Saturday afternoon Elsie and Evadne, with shades of an exploit from Elsie’s school days, decided to try and climb one of the big trees in the wood to prove that they could still do it and consequently got stuck, leading Paul to have to come and rescue them with a ladder much to the amusement of everybody but the ladies themselves. Sunday morning saw them all strolling down to the small parish church in the village for the morning service, and the remainder of the day was spent playing in and around the house, including a mammoth game of hide and seek during which Edgar got himself locked in the wine cellar, and Tom cut his arm on an old nail whilst trying to hide himself in one of the enormous toyboxes in the nursery.

It was three in the afternoon when Paul, mindful of getting home before his daughter’s bedtime, began to gather them all together. Forty-five minutes later, following protracted goodbyes, during which the two Watson girls extracted promises out of Evvy to come and see them again soon, the visitors finally all piled into their car, and with a toot of the horn Paul drove them off down the driveway, Thea and Marcia running and waving in their wake. As they saw the car turn out of the estate gates at the top of the hill, Edgar and Amelia turned to walk back into the house.

“Well, barring a couple of minor injuries and some dented pride, that was pretty good fun all round!” Edgar grinned at his stepmother as he spoke. “Have a feeling it’ll be a while before Elsie and Evvy climb any more trees though!”

Amelia laughed. “Well, after you locking yourself in the cellar, the less you talk the more you’ll shine my boy! Remember that when you’re ribbing them about it, won’t you?” She turned her head and watched the two little girls as they stood at the top of the hill, getting ready to race each other down the grass back to the house. “I think the girls have found themselves a new friend, anyway. Something tells me their father may have done as well,” she added, glancing sideways at her stepson, a grin on her face.

Edgar caught her look and rolled his eyes. “Yes, Amelia, and that’s all she is, a friend. There’s nothing more to it than that, so don’t start barking up that tree. You’ve got it all wrong,” but he couldn’t stop himself blushing slightly as he spoke, and Amelia regarded him with amusement.

“Give me some credit Edgar, I am neither blind nor stupid,” she retorted, “I can see perfectly well how fond of her you are, and I can’t say I blame you. She’s a lovely girl.”

“I really don’t think…” Under his stepmother’s glare, Edgar stopped protesting and sighed, a resigned look on his face. “Fine you win! I like her, okay? I like her very much. But you are not, under any circumstances, to repeat that to anyone. And no trying to help me out either,” he added, pre-empting Amelia’s words as she opened her mouth. “You let me do this at my own pace, please.”

“Fine, have it your own way,” she returned with a smile. “Just remember you said that when you have a date and need me to babysit!”

Edgar opened his mouth to retort, when a piercing scream broke through their conversation, and they turned round just in time to see Marcia, who had reached the bottom of the hill well ahead of her sister due to that young lady’s poorly ankle, trip over the verge at the bottom of the grass and land on the gravel forecourt on her hands and knees. Running across the forecourt towards, her, Edgar picked her up and cuddled her to him, then lifting her into his arms, he stood up and turned to head back in the direction of the front steps.

“No peace for the wicked, eh?” he said, shaking his head at Amelia, and as she chuckled and went off to fetch Thea, who had come to a halt halfway up the hill, her ankle hurting her, Edgar turned and carried his youngest daughter towards the house.


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:38 am; edited 1 time in total

 


#310:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 4:00 pm


Jo, those were WONDERFUL posts!!! Love Evvy and Thea in their 'castle'!!! and Evvy and Elsie up the tree!!!!!

 


#311:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans/Leicester PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 4:18 pm


The castle was fantastic and only just about topped by Evvy and Elsie trying to climb a tree! Nice to see they never really grow up Very Happy

 


#312:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 4:24 pm


The picture of Elsie and Evvy stuck up a tree is just hilarious!

 


#313:  Author: Rachael PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 4:51 pm


Superb - so many lengthy posts to catch up on and Evvy's rapport with the kids is wonderful Just hope she gets on OK with Ned too ... but I'm not going to read anything into anything because everthing is just spell-bindingly lovely as it is ... Thanks Josie!

 


#314:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 5:40 pm


I love Elsie and Evvy stuck up a tree!!! What a fantasic weekend in all, now Evvy has just to meet Ned!! Confused

 


#315:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 7:22 pm


Wonderful images! Laughing Thanks Josie.

 


#316:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 7:24 pm


Thanks Jo, those posts were lovely! Very Happy

 


#317:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 8:28 pm


Everyone else has said what I think. Lovely Jo. thank you.

 


#318:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 8:57 pm


Love Elsie & Evvy climbing trees - and also Amelia's comment to Edgar about him being locked in the wine cellar (at least he wouldn't die of thirst if they never found him Laughing ) and - well all of it really Jo. Can I adopt them all and make them my family? Liz

 


#319:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 9:30 pm


Thank you Jo, that was wonderful. I was giggling my head off. JackieJ

 


#320:  Author: Caroline OSullivanLocation: Reading, Berkshire, UK PostPosted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 9:32 pm


Thank you Jo Very Happy Very Happy There's so many lovely bits that I'd have to quote all the last few posts. So glad that Thea is now friends with Evvy. I suppose Ned will be the next hurdle. Hope Amelia gets to do lots of babysitting before she gets too ill to do so.

 


#321:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 12:17 am


Lovely roundoff to the weekend. Poor little Marcia falling on gravel is horrible.

 


#322:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 11:19 am


Edgar thanked the waiter for his drink, sat back in his chair and looked around the lounge of the Hotel de Louvre. He was attending a lunchtime function in the hotel and should currently have been sitting in his seat at the table, listening to yet another boring speech from yet another dignitary, but after two hours he had been battling to stay awake, and had decided to make his way out to the bar for a much needed respite. Taking a sip of his drink, he was just wondering to himself how he could get out of the rest of the afternoon, when he was startled out of his reverie by a voice at his shoulder.

“Glad I’m not the only one who was losing the will to live in there!” He looked up to see a large, fair, jovial man standing over him. “Say, mind if I join you?” the man continued, in his soft, American accent, “This place is a mite full at this time of day, and I noticed you escaping the lunch around the same time I did, thought we might be able to commiserate together.”

Edgar laughed, and gestured to a seat at the table. “Be my guest. Could do with the company.” He watched as the man took a seat and ordered himself a drink, and then Edgar held out his hand to his new acquaintance. “Edgar Watson.”

“Arthur Lannis, pleasure to meet you,” the gentlemen replied, shaking the proffered hand. Then as he saw the look of recognition on Edgar’s face, he stared at him, confused. “Do I know you? You’re sure looking at me like I should, but I’m afraid no penny’s dropping at all.”

Shaking his head, Edgar laughed. “Sorry, I’m being terribly rude, staring at you like that. I was just thinking what a small world it is. No, you don’t know me, but I know you or I know of you, at any rate.” Seeing the deepening look of confusion on Arthur’s face, Edgar hastened to explain. “I work for Jock MacLellan at the British F.O our department does a fair amount of dealings with your company I believe.” Then, as Arthur’s look changed from confusion to comprehension, Edgar smiled and added, “I’m also a friend of your daughter.”

“You know Evvy?” Edgar nodded.

“Yes, she’s a close friend of some old pals of mine. They were all down staying at my house this weekend past, as it happens.”

“Well, I’ll be damned! What a coincidence! Well, I may say this changes things. Any friend of Evvy’s is a friend of mine! Another drink? Garçon!” He called the waiter over before Edgar had time to reply, “Two more of your finest scotch, s’il vous plait,” and as the waiter nodded his head and departed to get the drinks, Arthur turned back to face his new friend. “So how is that daughter of mine, anyway? Sounds like you’ve seen her far more recently than I have, from all you’ve said.”

Edgar laughed and replied, and the two men settled down into an amicable conversation, whiling the afternoon away discussing Evadne and then moving onto their work and other common ground. It was four hours, and several scotches, later that Edgar suddenly realised he was supposed to be attending another function that evening, and not only was he already running late, but he was also feeling decidedly light-headed. Getting unsteadily to his feet, he shook Arthur’s hand with a promise to catch up next time he was in Paris, and made his way out of the hotel, bouncing off several chairs as he went, and disappeared into the Paris night.

Arthur finished his drink, and after settling the bill, he left the hotel and set off across the 8th Arrondissement towards his apartment, weaving his way down the pavement as he went, and mulling the afternoon over in his mind. As the afternoon had gone on, it had become more and more apparent to him that Edgar was very fond of Evadne, and having taken quite a shine to the young man, Arthur had made up his mind to try and see if he could help things along.


A couple of weeks later, Arthur and Evvy were in their Long Island home, packing up those of their belongings that they wished to ship to Europe, and readying the house to be put on the market. After much discussion, Arthur had decided that it did not make good financial sense to keep on such a large house when neither of them were living there any longer, and coupled with the fact that he wanted to purchase a villa on the French Riviera, he had made up his mind that they would keep the Manhattan apartment and put the Long Island house up for sale. They had spent a great deal of time over the past few days reminiscing about old times, coming across memories and mementoes that had made them laugh, and occasionally brought tears to their eyes, as in the case of a box of bits and pieces belonging to Evadne’s mother, who had died some twelve years before.

Arthur now sat on the bedroom floor, an old birthday card from his late wife clutched in his hand, and looked across at his daughter with a sigh. “Would you believe it’s been thirteen years since we moved back here before the war? Where the years have gone is beyond me!”

Evadne looked up from the box which she was busy sealing. “Feels a lot longer than that sometimes,” she responded, giving him a smile. She paused for a moment and regarded him thoughtfully. “Poppa, are you sad to be leaving this place? Actually selling it, I mean, what with the memories of Mom and all…”

Arthur looked around him and considered the question for a minute before he replied. “I guess I am, in some ways. But when you stop and think about it, we haven’t had a whole lot of joy here, have we? Your mother was so sick when we moved here, then with her death, and the war coming, and…well…and everything else, somehow it’s just been one thing after another. I guess those memories stick out most in my mind makes it easier to let it go.” He put the card he was holding into the box that stood at his right hand side, and picked up the last bundle of papers that were lying on the floor. “How about you? How d’you feel about it all?”

“I’m not really sure to be honest.” She finished sealing the box, and pushing it to one side, she sat back, propping herself up against the wall. “I thought I’d be real sad when it came to actually leaving, but when I really stop to think about it, the only things I’ll really miss will be Cassie, Andrew and the kids, and being so close to Corney and Mike. But it’s not like I’ve seen a whole heap of them in the last couple of years anyway, and they can all afford the trip over to Europe from time to time.” She heaved a sigh and turned her head to gaze up out of the window. “In many ways it feels like a clean break, an opportunity to leave the past behind. And anyway, I like it over in Europe, being so close to everyone in England, and spending time with you in Paris. In many ways it feels more like home over there than it ever has here.”

Arthur sat back and looked at her, deciding it was time to broach his idea. “Actually Evvy, I was going to ask if you’d like to take up residence in the London house for a while. Would be a big help to me with the things we’ve got going on in England, and you can come over to Paris whenever you want. And that way you’ll be nearer your friends as well. What do you say?” He looked at her anxiously, hoping that she’d want to go along with this plan.

At his words, Evadne gave him a surprised look. “But Pops, are you sure? I mean, isn’t it best for me to be in Paris with you, looking after you and stuff?”

“Evvy, I’m sixty-two years old, and I’ve looked after myself so far,” he retorted with mild indignation, “I think I can manage just fine! And it’ll only be like it has been in recent months anyway. You’ve been spending so much time in London, you may as well be based there.”

“Well, if you sure?” He nodded, and she gave him a beaming smile. “Then, yes please, I’d love to stay in London.”

“Excellent, then that’s settled,” and throwing the bundle of papers he had been leafing through into the box, he began to close it up. “Oh, by the way,” he added casually, “I met someone you know a couple of weeks ago.”

“Oh? Who?”

“Sir Edgar Watson, I believe his name is.”

“Edgar?” She looked at him in surprise. “How did you meet him?”

“At some dull lunch thing we both happened to be attending in Paris. He works as a consultant for the F.O. on agricultural and farming matters.”

“Does he? I didn’t realise. Actually he may have told me at some point,” she admitted, looking slightly sheepish, “but I probably wasn’t listening!”

Arthur smiled he was well aware of Evvy’s lack of interest in his line of work. “Well, he seems like a nice guy anyway. We spent a pleasant afternoon chewing the fat over a bottle of scotch!”

Evadne laughed. “Yes, he is nice. I haven’t known him that long, to be honest. He’s a friend of Paul and Elsie’s.. Remember I went to stay in the country a few weeks ago? I told you about the gorgeous kids I’d met? Well, it was his place, and they’re his children.” She caught the knowing smile on her father’s face as she spoke, and rolled her eyes. “It’s not like that Pops, he’s just a friend! You have to stop trying to find me a husband or I’m gonna start hunting you out a new wife!” She glared at him with mock severity, and he chuckled. “His wife died a while ago though,” she continued, “so I guess we kind of understand where each other are coming from.”

Arthur smiled at her. “I’m glad sweetheart. It’ll do you good to have a friend who understands.” He looked at her for a moment and then gave her a nonchalant grin. “And as for me finding a new wife, well it may not be as far-fetched as you think.”

Evvy’s eyes opened in amazement. “What?"

He laughed at the expression on her face. “Oh, don’t have kittens, I’m not getting married!” he said with a chuckle, “But next time you’re in Paris, I will introduce you to Veronica.”

“Who’s Veronica?”

“She’s my new friend.”

“And why didn’t I know about this?”

“Because as you’ve said to me before, I don’t have to tell you everything!”

“But…”

“She’s English, and she’s very charming and sweet, and I want you to meet her,” he continued, ignoring her indignant protests. “I think you’ll get on together just grand. Now, how about you close your mouth, seeing as you look like a stranded codfish, and we give this a rest for now. It’s high-time we were heading out to meet Cassie and Andrew for lunch,” and getting to his feet, he turned and walked out of the room, leaving her to follow after him, still exclaiming in disbelief.


(Edited for my usual crappy spelling!!)


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:43 am; edited 4 times in total

 


#323:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 12:09 pm


Edgar is a lovely poppa! Now I want him and Amelia to meet so they can start doing some serious plotting! thanks Jo

 


#324:  Author: kerenLocation: Israel PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 12:15 pm


maybe veronica is that horrible woman with a new name?

 


#325:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 12:30 pm


Hehe love the shock Evvy got there! Very Happy

 


#326:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 12:34 pm


Thank you Jo! Arthur is lovely and I enjoyed Edger and him getting to know one another!

 


#327:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 2:38 pm


keren wrote:
maybe veronica is that horrible woman with a new name?
Don't even think it! Veronica is a very lovely woman who will make Evvy's dad very happy - right Josie??

 


#328:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 3:23 pm


Lovely long post - Thanks Jo Liz *adding Mr Lannis to the list of potential adoptees*

 


#329:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 3:43 pm


Don't worry, Chelsea, Veronica is perfectly nice, and is certainly not Tamara in disguise!!

Here's another post as I'm feeling extra generous today


By the end of September, Edgar had finally decided the time had come to make his move. He and Evadne had bumped into each other several times following her permanent relocation to London in mid-July, both on nights out organised by Paul and Elsie, and a couple of times at dinner parties held by mutual acquaintances they were unaware that they had. By mid-August they had fallen into an arrangement of getting together for an hours lunch once a week in order to catch up, and they were well on the way to becoming fast friends. From Evadne’s point of view, Edgar had become an invaluable confidante, someone to whom she could talk about the things which she generally kept bottled up. For his part, Edgar was becoming more and more fond of her with every moment they spent together, and he had now made up his mind to take a chance at moving the friendship on a little further.

She had been over in Paris for the last three weeks, and he was not due to see her again until the following week when they were going out with Elsie and Paul. He had decided that he would engineer some time on his own with her and ask her if she would come out to dinner with him sometime. He was now lying on his bed in his London flat, staring up at the ceiling and imagining how the conversation might go.

“Evvy, I was wondering if you would like to join me for dinner one night.” No, that was too chummy, she might not understand that he meant it to be a date.

“Evvy, I was wondering if you would do me the honour of…” No, too formal, it sounded like he was about to propose.

“Evvy, I’ve become very fond of you over the past few months and was wondering if there was any chance of…” No, too long-winded and stilted.

“Evvy…”

His train of thought was interrupted by the shrill ringing of the phone, and heaving a sigh, Edgar got up to answer it. Fifteen minutes later he hung up the receiver and returned to his bed, but every opening line he came up with sounded as bad as the one before. In the end, he decided to give up trying. He’d just wait until next Wednesday and say whatever came into his head at the time. Checking his watch, he realised it was almost eight o’clock, and putting Evadne out of his mind for a while, he returned to the telephone and called his children to say goodnight.

==

Sitting in the salon of her Kensington home, Evadne’s evening was suddenly interrupted by a knock at the door. Wondering who could be paying her a visit at eight o’clock at night, she got up out of her chair, taking the needle off the record to which she listening, and made her way into the hall. Opening the door, she was startled at the sight of the person stood on her doorstep, a broad grin lighting up his friendly face.

“Richard! What the…”

“Hey Evvy! Surprised to see me?”

“Just a bit! What the blazes are you doing here?”

“Can I come in, by any chance?”

“Cripes, sorry! Yes, come in,” Evadne stepped back from the door to allow him to enter, and as he did, she reached up to give him a hug. “Oh, it’s so good to see you!” she exclaimed as he returned her hug. “How come you’re in England? How long are you here for?”

“Well,” he replied, grinning as she removed his coat, flinging it over a chair, “I’m here for only a couple of weeks. I got in yesterday morning, and I go back a week Monday. I’m staying round the corner at the Royal Garden Hotel. As for why I’m here, I had some vacation owed to me, so I thought I’d come over and visit, surprise you. Looks like I succeeded!"

“I’ll say! But it’s a long way to come just for a vacation isn’t it? Wouldn’t you rather have gone back to Boston? Not that I’m not glad you’re here of course!” she added hurriedly, realising how rude she was sounding.

He gave a grin at her last comment, and ran his hand through his tousled brown hair, his face becoming serious again. “Well, it’s not just a friendly visit to be honest,” he replied, his grey eyes looking straight into her blue ones. They still hadn’t made it out of the hallway, and he reached down and took hold of her hand. “I miss you, Evvy. It’s been over a year, and if anything I miss you more now than when I first left Boston. I was a complete fool to let you go as easily as I did.” He paused for a moment and took a deep breath. “I know it’s probably a lost cause, but I had to come and at least try to persuade you to come back to Los Angeles with me.”

Evadne was flabbergasted. She opened her mouth to speak, but no sound came out, and Richard gave her wry smile. “Guess I really have surprised you now!”

Evvy shook her head to try and pull herself together. Removing her hand from his clasp, she looked back at him, twisting her fingers together, an expression of regret on her face. “Oh Richard, I…” she swallowed as she seemed to get tongue-tied again, and then looked up at his face. “Richard, you know how I feel.”

“Yes Evvy, I know. I remember what you said, but just do me one favour okay?” He had a pleading look in his eyes, and Evadne felt a sense of guilt sweep over her body. “Will you at least think on it for a while, and let us enjoy the two weeks that I’m here? You’re not with anyone are you?” he asked with an anxious afterthought, and felt relieved when she shook her head. “Okay then, just think on it, and tell me your final decision either way when I leave. If it’s no, then I’ll accept it and never try and persuade you again. But please just promise me you’ll do that.”

She was still staring at him in silence, and taking her hand again, he bent his head to kiss her. Evadne turned her face away and took a step backwards, trying to resist her sudden desire to wrap her arms around him. “Richard, I’m not sure this is such a good idea.”

“Evvy, I’m not going to read anything into it that’s not there, I promise. Can’t we just be like we were for the next couple of weeks? Please?”

She winced at the look of hurt that had flashed across his face, and looking up at the ceiling, she closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “I don’t know Richard, I…I’ll think on what you asked, okay, but I’m fairly sure my answer will still be no. You know how fond I am of you, but…”

He reached down for a third time to take hold of her hands. “I know, Evvy, but you will think on it won’t you?”

Looking up into his eyes, she felt her resolve slipping, and this time she made no attempt to remove her hand from his. “Okay, I promise.”

“Thank you, that’s all I ask.” Returning her gaze, Richard lifted his hands to either side of her face, and smiled down at her. “I’d almost forgotten just how beautiful you are, Evvy Lannis.”

Evvy felt a lump come into her throat as she returned his smile. Slowly, he bent his head and brought his lips down to meet hers. For a moment she stood there, static as he kissed her, then she gently wrapped her arms around him and kissed him back.


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:47 am; edited 2 times in total

 


#330:  Author: KatieLocation: London, but my heart belongs to Harrogate PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 3:48 pm


Silly Evvy - doesn't she know her future's already planned? Wink And poor Edgar - he's going to be gutted!

 


#331:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 3:51 pm


Yay Im glad Arthur has found someone!! Nooooooooooooooooooooo I like Richard but nooooooooooooooooo get out of the way!!! *flaps at the fly*

 


#332:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 3:52 pm


Ah, Josie, no. There I was thinking that Edgar was going to ask Evvy for a proper date and her old flame turns up. Hope Edgar doesn't take it badly. JackieJ

 


#333:  Author: kerenLocation: Israel PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 4:07 pm


well I am sure that this main will both get Edgar going more, as well as making Evvy "aware of her true feelings"

Last edited by keren on Tue Feb 08, 2005 9:33 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#334:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 4:17 pm


noooooooo! Cue mass confusion and upset when Edgar sees evvy with Richard. So wrong. Idiot man Richard, just go back to the states.. (PS. thanks Jo! Love Edgar practising his 'lines')

 


#335:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 4:34 pm


Well, we knew ther would be a few sticky moments along the way but I didn't expect that one! Poor Edgar! *cheers up knowing it will all end happily*

 


#336:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 4:42 pm


Nooooo Evvy!!!!! Poor Edgear, poor Richard. Cue confusion all round I'm guessing... Thank you for another shiny post Jo!

 


#337:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 4:46 pm


Hopefully next time Evvy sees Edgar she will realise that he not Richard is the ONE!

 


#338:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 5:02 pm


Eeeek!!!!!! Jo!! What are you DOING???????

 


#339:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 7:25 pm


Of course this is probably the point when Edgar appears and sees Evvy and Richard.... Josie that's sooooooo mean - but I suppose the course of true love never runs smoothly!

 


#340:  Author: dackelLocation: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 8:47 pm


I like Richad, he's nice...but can't he just go home...now? Wincing at the thought of possible future scenes, but not about to put any evil ideas into your head! Can't spell!

 


#341:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 9:58 pm


nonononononononono richard - go back to america where you belong!!!!!

 


#342:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 12:06 am


Isn't that just like the thing? Life seems to be toddling along nicely and then a dilemma like this pops up. Poor Evvy, hope she lets Richard down gently.

 


#343:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 2:29 am


Shocked It was a friendly kiss on the cheek wasn't it? (I hope)

 


#344:  Author: Rachael PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 9:19 am


This is fantastic, Jo!! Exactly what Edgar needs to stop dithering and declare his attentions! Practising his lines - honestly! Rolling Eyes This is Evvy we're talking about - she'll appreciate a blunt, foot-in-mouth approach! Laughing Can't wait to find out what happens next ...

 


#345:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 9:46 am


Jo that's NORTY. Argh, um, erk, *wibbles*

 


#346:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 10:23 am


Thanks Jo - If Edgar sees them together and draws his own conclusions then it might help explain why it takes them so long to get together. In the meantime, I hope Evvy and Richard have some fun and he's not too heartbroken at the end of it. Liz

 


#347:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 12:08 pm


I suppose we have to remember that, although Edgar is now sure of his feelings for Evvy, she still just thinks of him as a friend. This will give her time to meet Ned as well. (But I'm sending ((hugs)) to Edgar who will be devestated when he sees Evvy's 'boyfriend'.)

 


#348:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 2:09 pm


Opening the door to the club, Edgar felt his stomach tighten. He could not remember the last time he had felt this nervous. He kept telling himself he was being silly this was Evvy after all. They had been friends for a while now, he was never uncomfortable around her, never lost for words. But try as he might, he could not quash those nerves. Part of it was excitement the thought that by the end of this evening, he and Evadne would have taken the first step to becoming more than just friends.

He heard Elsie’s familiar laugh ring out, and looking around, he spotted her and Paul sitting at a table, Evadne opposite them with her back to him. Smiling, he began to walk towards them when he was suddenly brought up short. There, sitting next to Evadne, was a man he had never seen before. He had an arm around her shoulders, and as the four of them laughed at something she was saying, this stranger leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. Edgar was rooted to the spot. In an instant the nerves were gone from his stomach, only to be replaced by a feeling of nausea. He could not believe what he was seeing. Who was this man? What was he doing with Evvy? For a moment he had no idea what to do. Then all of a sudden he was gripped by an urgent need to get out of the bar, to get some fresh air, to get away from his friends.

Turning on his heel, he was about to walk out of the club when Elsie looked up and spotted him.

“Edgar, hi! Over here!”

Realising it was too late to leave, he paused for a moment with his back to them, gathering himself together. Then taking a deep breath, he fixed a smile on his face and turned around.

“There you are!” He walked towards the table, and bent to kiss Elsie on the cheek. “I didn’t see you there, thought I must be early or something. Hi Paul,” he leant over to shake his friend’s hand, and then turned to face Evadne. “Hello Evvy, how’re you?” he asked, offering his hand to be shaken.

A little confused, she had thought that they were past the handshaking stage, Evvy shook his proffered hand and smiled up at him. “I’m good thanks,” she replied, turning towards Richard as she spoke. “Edgar, this is Richard van Alden, a friend of mine from back home. Richard, this is Sir Edgar Watson, better known as Edgar to his friends,” she added with a grin.

Keeping the smile fixed on his face, Edgar shook Richard’s hand and looked around for a spare seat. He was about to pull up a chair when Evvy nudged Richard and they both moved up the large bench on which they were sitting. “Here you go, you can squeeze on here.”

Edgar sighed, smiled again, and sat down. This evening was going from bad to worse, but realising he had little choice but to make the best of it, he ordered himself a drink and turned to talk to Paul.


An hour and half later, Edgar was feeling like he was in his own personal version of hell. Richard kept his arm firmly around Evadne’s shoulders all evening, and every time he kissed her on the cheek, or whispered in her ear causing her to giggle, Edgar found his heart sinking further towards his shoes. He tried his best to ignore them, directing his conversation towards Paul and Elsie and avoiding contact with Evvy unless she directed a question straight to him. But as the evening wore on he became more and more monosyllabic, wishing he could be anywhere else in the world.

Elsie could see what was happening, and leaning forward, she touched him on the arm. “Edgar, are you alright?”

Looking up at her, he forced a smile onto his face yet again. “I’m fine thanks, just a bit tired, that’s all.” Suddenly he saw a way out. “In fact, I think I may be coming down with something, so if you can all forgive me for being terribly rude, I think I’m going to excuse myself and call it a night.”

Giving him a sympathetic smile, Elsie nodded her head. “Of course we don’t mind. You go home and get some rest, see if you can nurse yourself back to health,” and getting to her feet, she leant forward to kiss him on the cheek and give him a hug, before the others could ask him any further questions.

Returning her hug, Edgar shook Paul and Richard’s hands, and then saying a cursory ‘goodbye’ to Evadne, he left the table as quickly as he could, retrieving his coat from the cloakroom and heading up the stairs to the street above. As he stepped outside, the cold evening air hit him and he leant back against the nearest wall, his head thrown back and his eyes closed, trying to make some sense of what had just happened. Then catching the sound of footsteps coming up the stairs, he forced himself upright and turned to walk in the general direction of his flat.

The footsteps were coming up quickly behind him as he walked, and he had not gone fifty yards when he felt a hand on his arm. He turned to find himself staring down into Evadne’s face.

“Edgar, are you okay? What’s wrong?”

“I’m fine, Evvy, I’m just tired, as I’ve already said. I just want to get home,” and pulling his arm free, he began to walk off again.

Stepping forward, Evadne grabbed his arm again. “Are you sure? You were so quiet tonight, it’s not like you.”

Edgar took a deep breath and turned back to face her. “Yes, Evvy, I’m sure I’m okay.”

“Well, if you’re sure.” She looked up at him, concern showing on her face. “Listen, we haven’t had much of a chance to talk tonight, and it feels like an age since I last saw you. Richard goes home Monday will you come over next Tuesday, we can have a proper catch up? I’ve heaps to tell you.”

Edgar stared at her for a moment, and then shook his head. “I’m sorry, I can’t. I’ll be tied up with work all day.”

“Well, how about another day then? Wednesday? Or Thursday?”

He shook his head again. “I’m sorry, Evvy, I’ve so much going on at work, I’m going to be really busy for while. What say I call you when I’ve got some spare time?”

Feeling distinctly like she was being brushed off, Evadne looked at him, confused. “Erm, yeah, okay.”

“We’ll leave it at that then. Right, I’d better get going. Goodnight Evvy,” and turning on his heel, he walked off, leaving her staring after him.


It was almost three hours later when Evadne and Richard strolled up Pitt Street and stopped outside her front door. They had not spoken much on the walk home. Evadne had been trying to figure out what was making Edgar behave so strangely towards her, and Richard, seeing where her thoughts lay, was busy making some decisions of his own. Now he turned to face her, still holding her hand, and looked down at her with regret in his eyes.

“Evvy, I’ve been thinking, and I’m not gonna stay ‘til Monday. I’ll speak to the airline first thing in the morning and see if I can leave tomorrow instead. I can stop off in Boston on the way home, go and see Mike and Corney.”

Evadne stared up at him in surprise. “How come?”

Giving her a sad smile, he lifted a hand to stroke her cheek, then dropped it back to his side. “You’re not coming back with me, are you?”

She was caught off guard by his words, and a look of guilt flashed across her face as she shook her head, looking down at her feet. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. I knew it was likely to end like this, anyhow. I should probably never have come in the first place, but I just had to know for sure.” Putting a hand under her chin, he lifted her face so that her eyes looked into his own. “I realised tonight that there’s no point in stringing this out any longer. We’ll always stay friends, Evvy, but for my own sake I need to leave now. Your heart belongs to someone else, even if you don’t realise it yourself.”

Evvy looked at him, confused. “I don’t understand? What do you mean ‘my heart belongs to someone else’?” Richard smiled and shook his head, and Evadne had a sudden thought. “I suppose you mean Ralph. I guess you’re right,” she said, swallowing hard, and deciding now wasn’t the time to correct her, Richard simply ran his hand through her curls, bending his head to kiss her gently on the forehead.

“Goodbye, Evvy, look after yourself, won’t you?”

Tears welled up in Evadne’s eyes as she looked up at his face. “I’m sorry, Richard.”

“I know,” and with a final squeeze of her hand, he turned and walked back up the street towards his hotel, leaving Evvy to enter her house with a heavy heart.


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:52 am; edited 2 times in total

 


#349:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 2:16 pm


Ok Richard is forgiven now - but it wold all have been easier if he'd not come in the first place. Though I'm not sure what Evvy's response would have been if Edgar had asked his question. Poor Edgar, poor confused Evvy. And Elsie is lovely! ETA: Forgot to say thank you, sorry Jo! Embarassed

 


#350:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 2:25 pm


yes, I suppose we will have to forgive Richard now. poor edgar, hope he realises his mistake soon thanks shiny Jo!

 


#351:  Author: Rachael PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 3:55 pm


Good for Richard - what a gent Very Happy Pleased that someone can see the writing on the wall!! Now, please don't let it be aaaaaages before Evvy and Edgar meet again, Jo!!

 


#352:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 4:31 pm


I feel sorry for Richard. You can't really blame him for trying! ((((Edgar))))

 


#353:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 5:00 pm


Lucky Evvy having all these men after her, I wish I had at least one after me! Thanks for the post Jo!

 


#354:  Author: Catherine_BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 5:17 pm


*feeling somewhat more charitably disposed towards Richard* Come on Evvy... everyone else can see what's going to happen!!!

 


#355:  Author: KathyeLocation: Laleham PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 6:29 pm


Hee hee heeI LOVE this drabble, next bits not bad either *g*Poor Edgar shes not gonna let him slink off that easily.......

 


#356:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 7:49 pm


Please can we have some more? And Kathye don't be smug! Rolling Eyes

 


#357:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 9:34 pm


Thank you Josie - poor Edgar, let's hope Evvy comes to her senses soon.

 


#358:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 10:46 pm


Sends Edgar a hot water bottle for that cold, empty feeling inside... Prehaps he should try to get out more & meet different women? if Evvy sees him with someone else she might realise how she feels about him.

 


#359:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 10:21 am


Lyanne wrote:
Prehaps he should try to get out more & meet different women? if Evvy sees him with someone else she might realise how she feels about him.

Think he's a bit too much of a gent for that! Wink

Kathye - glad to see you've remembered to get a gloat in Laughing Wink Thanks for proofing yet again matey. Very Happy


It was now mid November, and Edgar had been studiously avoiding Evadne for the past six weeks, not returning her calls, and always too busy to talk to her properly on the odd occasion she did manage to get hold of him.

Evvy had finally had enough. She was still none the wiser as to what she had done to upset him, but she was certain it must be her fault it was just so uncharacteristic of him to behave like this. On waking this morning, she had come to a decision that she had to tackle him head on, and knowing that he would be in London today, she ate a speedy breakfast, got dressed and set off for his flat to confront him.


Edgar was due at a meeting in Whitehall in half an hour, and having overslept, he was already running very late. Bolting down his breakfast as he dressed, he pulled on his suit jacket, drained the last of his tea, and headed into the hallway to grab his coat and briefcase, just as the doorbell sounded. Cursing under his breath, Edgar flung the door open, and, to his surprise, found himself staring Evvy in the face.

“What are you doing here?”

“Charmed to see you too, I’m sure! Can I come in, Edgar? I think we need to talk.”

Edgar rolled his eyes, an impatient look on his face. This was the last thing he needed right now. “Sorry, Evvy, it’ll have to wait. I’m just on my way out, and I’m already late,” and grabbing his coat, briefcase and umbrella, he tried to usher her back out into the hall.

Feeling that he was fobbing her off with another excuse, Evadne felt her temper starting to rise. “Why is it every time I want to talk to you lately, you’re too busy? I can’t see where you’re going in such a rush anyhow, you’re still wearing your slippers!” Edgar looked down at his feet and saw that she was right. Feeling like a complete fool, he cursed himself and turned back into the hallway, kicking them off and bending down to retrieve his shoes from underneath the dresser. As he sat down in a chair to pull them on, Evadne came and stood in front of him. “Edgar, what’s going on? I don’t understand. What have I done wrong? Why are you avoiding me?”

Hearing the note of desperation in her voice, Edgar suddenly felt very guilty. She had no idea what had gone on that night, why he had seemed so out of sorts. It was not her fault that he felt as he did. And he knew he had no right to expect her not to be seeing anybody else. Suddenly he realised how horrible his recent behaviour must have seemed to her. Sitting up and looking into her eyes, he gave her a guilty smile.

“Evvy, I’m sorry. I really have been very busy. And I genuinely am late for a meeting, I promise you. Though what they’d have said if I’d turned up in my slippers, I shudder to think!” He stood up as he spoke, and ushered her out into the hallway, closing the door behind him and locking it, then turned and led her towards the stairs. “Look, what are you up to tomorrow afternoon?”

“Nothing I can’t put off.”

“Good. Then how about I come round to yours? About two’ish suit you?”

“Two’ish would be good.”

“Excellent, I’ll see you then.” He pushed open the main door to his building, nodding to the concierge as he went, and they walked down the front steps and onto the road. “’Bye Evvy, see you tomorrow,” and with a quick wave of his hand, he climbed into the waiting car. Evadne stood and watched as the car pulled off down the street and turned into Chester Row. She was still not convinced by his explanation, but at least he was talking to her again, and her questions could wait until tomorrow afternoon. Heaving a sigh, she turned and walked back in the direction of Sloane Square and home.


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:54 am; edited 2 times in total

 


#360:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 10:25 am


Thanks Jo! Hope Evvy and Edgar manage to have a good chat! Very Happy

 


#361:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:09 am


Thanks Jo Hope Evvy and Edgar can get back to being friends again, if nothing else. Poor Richard - I hope he eventually finds happiness with someone else. Liz

 


#362:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:21 am


Thanks Jo! Want to bang their heads together! Laughing

 


#363:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:30 am


Thank you Jo! Hope they can clear the air a bit in their meeting.

 


#364:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:43 am


thanks Jo looking forward to their meeting tomorrow afternoon! (is that our time or their time?!?)

 


#365:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:47 am


Thank you Jo Very Happy Glad the Richard thing has been sorted! Im vair much looking forward to the next 11 posts or so. Laughing

 


#366:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 1:05 pm


Robin wrote:
thanks Jo looking forward to their meeting tomorrow afternoon! (is that our time or their time?!?)

Would you look at that - it's tomorrow afternoon already!! Wink

At quarter to three the following afternoon, Evadne was just beginning to think that he had stood her up again when the doorbell sounded, and jumping to her feet she went into the hallway and opened the door to a very harassed-looking Edgar.

“Sorry I’m late, couldn’t get out of the office,” he grimaced, as he came through the door and took off his coat. “Today has not been a good day!”

Evadne took his coat from him and hung it up on the coat stand to the right of the door. “Why? What’s happened?”

Edgar gave her an amused smile and raised an eyebrow. “Are you really interested?”

She opened her mouth to protest, then caught his eye and started to laugh. “Well no, not really. But it’s polite to ask!” Edgar chuckled, and she shrugged, leading him into the salon and gesturing for him to take a seat. “Well, I was going to offer you a cup of tea, but in the circumstances, maybe a scotch would be more the order of the day?”

“I think you’ve just read my mind!” He grinned at her as he sat down, leaning back in the chair and stretching out his long legs.

Smiling, Evadne left the room, and ten minutes later she was back, a bottle of her father’s finest scotch in one hand and two glasses in the other. Putting them down on the table and pouring it out, she handed Edgar a glass and made her way to the sofa, sitting down and curling her legs up underneath her. Edgar took a sip, then sat back again and looked around.

“So, has your friend gone home to the States?”

“Richard?” She looked up at him in surprise. “Yes, he went back weeks ago. I told you he was going, the night you met him.”

“So you did. Sorry, I forgot.” He took another sip of his drink, then placed it down on the table. “How long have you been seeing him, then?”

Evvy gave a laugh. “I’m not seeing him at all!” She thought for a minute, then realised what had caused Edgar to think that she was. “Well, that’s not strictly true. I used to date him back in the U.S. His brother is married to my best friend. We broke it off when he moved to LA, before I moved over here for good. He actually came over to try and persuade me to give it another go, to go back to the U.S. with him.” She flushed slightly as she spoke, and Edgar gave her a curious look.

“So, I presume from the fact you’re still here, that you decided not to go?”

He had a hopeful look on his face as he spoke, and Evvy gave him a grin. “No, don’t worry, I’m going nowhere. I’ll still be here to top you up with whiskey and listen to your weekly gripes,” she replied, pulling a face at him.

Edgar felt relief flood through his body. Clearly this ‘thing’ with Richard was not as serious as he had imagined. “Do you mind if I ask why you decided to stay?”

Evadne looked at him curiously for a minute, then shook her head. “No, I don’t mind. I guess I just couldn’t see any future in it. I’m very fond of him, but that’s where it stops well, on my part anyway. I figured Los Angeles is a long way to go just to have that confirmed, and it wouldn’t be fair to him either. To be frank, I’m not really interested in dating anyone any more. It just seems so pointless, it’s never gonna go anywhere.” Shifting position in her seat, she wriggled to get comfortable once more, and stared, eyes unfocused, over his left shoulder, thinking hard. “I reckon you only really fall in love once, and Ralph was that once for me. I’m not sure I want to be with anyone unless I can feel that way again, and I don’t think that’s possible, so…,” she shrugged, bringing her eyes back into focus to look over at her guest.

Edgar stared at her intently, his mind racing as he listened to her words. For the first time, he was thankful that he had not got the chance to tell her how he felt the last time he’d seen her. He had the feeling that things would not have worked out quite as he would have liked. “Do you really think you’ll never fall in love again?”

“Doubt it very much. Why, do you? Think you’ll fall in love again, I mean?”

“I’d like to think I can. I certainly wouldn’t rule it out if the right woman came along.” He smiled to himself as he added in his thoughts, ‘…and I think she already has.’

Evvy smiled at him and shook her head. “I’m not sure I have your faith.”

“Well maybe you shouldn’t give up just yet. You never know.”

“Yeah, maybe.” She paused and regarded him with a quizzical air. “Edgar, what’s been going on these past few weeks? Why have you been avoiding me?”

Edgar was caught off guard by her direct question and abrupt change of topic, and he started guiltily. “I haven’t been avoiding you.”

“Oh, please. You don’t call not returning a persons calls and refusing to see them avoiding someone? ‘Cause that’s what it adds up to in my book.”

“I just…I…well…,” Edgar was completely flustered, he had no idea what to say. He could hardly tell her the real reason, especially after everything she had just said. He valued her friendship too much to jeopardise it by declaring his feelings for her. He sat there, his cheeks burning, and stared at the floor.

Luckily for him, Evadne presumed he was trying to spare her blushes by not telling her what it was she had done to offend him, and she decided to take pity on him. “Look, whatever it was I did, I’m very sorry, okay? You know me by now tact is not my strong point.” Despite himself, Edgar smiled at this last comment. “I’ve no doubt I said something horribly rude to you, but next time, just tell me okay? Don’t do this whole avoiding me thing at least, not without telling me why first. ‘Cause I’ve gotta tell you, it doesn’t feel so good.”

Edgar knew the easiest thing to do would be to just go along with her train of thought, but he couldn’t bring himself to do so. It was not fair to let her think that it had all been her fault. “You didn’t do anything to offend me, Evvy, please don’t think that.” He sighed and gave her a guilty smile. “I’ve just had a lot of things going on in my mind recently I suppose I’ve let them take over somewhat. But I’m sorry, I should never have taken it out on you. That wasn’t fair.”

“Anything you want to talk about?”

He shook his head. “Thanks, but no. I have to sort this one out on my own.”

Evadne nodded. “Okay, well, you know where I am if you change your mind.”

Much to Edgar’s relief, she then decided it was time to change the subject, enquiring as to the welfare of his family, and for the next couple of hours they chatted and laughed in the way that they always did, their differences forgotten. Finally Edgar checked his watch and got to his feet. “Right, I have to get going. I’m heading home this evening, and I promised I’d be there before Marcia goes to bed.” Walking into the hall, he took his coat off the stand and put it on, then he turned round to face her. “I’ve missed this, you know. I didn’t realise how much until this afternoon.” He smiled down at her. “I’m sorry for being such an idiot, Evvy.”

“Well, I guess I can forgive you,” she retorted, a twinkle in her eye. “I’m just glad we’re back to normal again. I was real worried I’d upset you somehow.”

“Not at all.” Putting a hand on her shoulder, he bent down and kissed her on the cheek. As he pulled back, he looked into her eyes, and she felt a slight jolt in her stomach. Shocked, she quickly blinked and pulled herself together. “Anyhow, I’ll see you for lunch next week?”

“Absolutely, I’ll see you then,” and walking down the front steps, he opened the door of his car and climbed in, gave a quick wave, and drove away.

Evadne shut the front door and leant back against it. Had she just imagined that? The look in his eyes, the feeling in her stomach? She stood there, staring ahead of her for a minute in confusion, then pulling herself together, she gave a shake of her head and told herself to stop being silly. Of course she had imagined it. This was Edgar, after all.


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:58 am; edited 1 time in total

 


#367:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 1:11 pm


Oh yay Evvy has finally realised! Very Happy

 


#368:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 1:42 pm


Thanks Jo I'm not sure that Evvy knows what she's realised yet. But hopefully it won't be too long now. *hopes for one of those fast-forward things to happen* JackieJ

 


#369:  Author: RobinLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 1:51 pm


me thinks I hear the penny beginning to drop! thanks Jo - really glad they are friends again

 


#370:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 1:57 pm


Gosh doesn't time fly when you're enjoying yourself! Thanks JO. And yay looks like Evvy's starting to realise - but I can see her not wanting to say anything to Edgar cos she's not sure how he feels...

 


#371:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 2:11 pm


Lovely Jo, thank you. Even messing with time, they've still got some way to go to get to the date they do tie the knot. Luckily for us because it's a really good drabble. Razz

 


#372:  Author: kerenLocation: Israel PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 2:22 pm


Jo, it is really nice of you to give us a new part of this every day (at least one if not 2 sometimes) I am enjoying it very much

 


#373:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 3:01 pm


'Bout time Evvy realised! Thought she was supposed to be pretty bright! Laughing Thanks Josie.

 


#374:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 3:26 pm


Awww, lovely thanks Jo! Dare I hope that they'll realise that they're meant to be together and that it will all run smoothly from here to the wedding day? Well, I can dream...

 


#375:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 3:40 pm


Thanks, Jo. It's about time Evvy realised that Edgar's the one for her.

 


#376:  Author: Rachael PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 4:58 pm


What a lovely long post! Thanks Jo - you're portraying the growth of their relationship absolutley magically ... I almost want them not to get together because the anticipation and your build-up is so wonderful ... ... almost .... Very Happy Wink

 


#377:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 5:18 pm


almost but somehow not quite...! And I appreciate that there's probably still a year and three quarters to go! Thanks Jo! Would love some more... Very Happy Apologies for the greed!

 


#378:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 7:20 pm


Lovely posts Jo!! Thank you hunny!

 


#379:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 11:04 am


That was lovely Jo - although I guess from what Evvy said about not loving again it might be some time before she accepts what's happening. Liz

 


#380:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 11:53 am


It was New Years Eve before Evadne finally met Ned. The end of November had seen her heading to Paris to be with her father, who had come down with a bout of chronic influenza. Although not serious, it had confined him to bed for a couple of weeks, and Evvy had rushed to be with him, both to nurse him back to health and to keep house. Whilst there, she had finally been introduced to Veronica, to whom she had taken immediately, and by the time Christmas came around the two women were fast friends, much to Mr Lannis’ delight.

She had returned to London between Christmas and New Year, and New Years Eve saw her heading down to Hampshire. Elsie and Paul had been talked into holding a party this year, and they had decided to make it an affair for all ages. Edgar and Amelia came up with the children, and, to Evadne’s delight, Ilonka and her husband also accepted the invitation and attended along with their daughter Maria, now a rough and tumble little girl of almost three.

It was the first time since the summer that Evvy had seen Edgar’s children, and the two little girls had treated her to a vociferous greeting and then refused to leave her side for the rest of the day, much to their father’s amusement. She was introduced to Ned along with Ilonka and Reon, and the young boy had given them all a friendly but cursory greeting, politely answered a couple of questions, and then run off to play with Tom, not giving his father’s friends a second thought. It was not until the following morning that Evadne’s presence permeated his consciousness once more.

Following incessant nagging from Thea and Marcia, Evadne had been persuaded to visit Wiltshire to spend a few days with the Watsons before returning to London. Plans had been made that she would follow behind Edgar’s car in her own little MG, which her father had purchased for her the previous November as an early Christmas present, and after a heated debate between the two little girls it had been agreed that Thea would accompany her in the passenger seat, with Marcia promised a drive of her own later in the week. Ned had been playing out in the garden when these arrangements had been made, and was not listening when his father informed him that they were to have a guest for the rest of the week, and he was consequently very surprised on New Years Day when the time came to leave and Thea climbed into Evadne’s car.

“What are you doing?”

“I’m driving home with Auntie Evvy. Daddy said I was allowed!”

She stuck her tongue out at him and Ned stared at her for a minute, then turned and walked over to his father who was saying goodbye to their hosts. “Dad, why is Thea driving home with Miss Lannis?”

“Because I said she could.” Edgar looked down at his son with a smile. “I’m sure she’ll take you for a drive later in the week if you ask her nicely.”

“I don’t want to go for a drive with her,” he retorted, glaring at his father. “Why is she coming to stay?”

“Because your sisters asked her to, and she said yes! Now hurry up with your goodbyes and get in the car, for goodness sake, I’d like to be home before lunch.”

With a black look descending on his normally charming face, Ned said a grumpy goodbye to Elsie and Paul and climbed into the back of his car, sitting down next to Marcia, his mouth set in a scowl. Ignoring all attempts his sister made to get a reaction out of him, he stared out of the window at the passing countryside, his mood becoming ever more brooding. By the time they arrived back at Whitlingford Hall he had succeeded in working himself up into a thoroughly bad temper, and he stomped off into the house without a word to anybody, going straight up to his bedroom and staying there until he was called down to lunch.

Edgar shot a concerned look at Amelia. “Think one of us should go after him?”

“I’d leave him if I was you, he may work himself out of it by the time lunch is ready.”

At that moment they heard the grinding of gears, and turned round to see Evadne’s car come into the forecourt and bunny hop a few times before grinding to a halt. She grinned up at them as they both stared at her with mild concern. “Still getting used to stick shift I’m afraid. Sure I’ll get there eventually,” and leaning across Thea, she helped her open the passenger door before opening her own and climbing out.

Thea jumped down from her seat and came running over to her father. “Daddy, that was such fun! I wanted the roof down, but Auntie Evvy said it was too cold,” she gushed, seemingly completely unconcerned at her driver’s talent, or lack thereof.

“Well, Auntie Evvy’s right, it is cold. Now, how about you go wash your hands and get ready for lunch?” then as she ran off he walked over to Evadne who was busy pulling her bag out of the boot of her car. “Here, let me take that. You know, I could give you some lessons if you like? Try and help you with those gear changes?”

Evvy grinned at him and shook her head. “Thanks, but you needn’t worry. Paul gave me some pointers yesterday morning after I got to theirs. I’m already way better than I was,” and hearing Marcia calling her from the top of the steps, she made her way towards the house as Edgar turned to his stepmother, his eyes wide in horror at Evadne’s last sentence. Amelia merely chuckled and shook her head, and they turned and followed the others indoors, Edgar wondering whether letting his daughters in a car with Evadne was such a good idea after all.

Ned refused to emerge from his room until lunch was on the table, and as he came to take his seat, Edgar could see that his son’s mood had not improved at all. He was silent all throughout most of the meal, until a comment from Evadne regarding his father’s London flat made him look up at her sharply.

“How do you know my Dad?”

His sudden input into the conversation made them all jump, and Evvy turned to face him with a smile. “Well, Auntie Elsie and I were at school together and we’ve stayed friends, and she and Uncle Paul introduced me to your father, and now we’ve become friends too.”

Ned glared at her as she spoke and put his fork down on his plate. “Dad doesn’t need any more friends. He’s got lots already, and he’s got us, so he doesn’t need you as well.”

Struck dumb by his words, Evadne turned to look at Edgar who was staring at his son with a shocked expression on his face. “Ned, apologise now! It’s none of your business who I choose to be friends with, you’re not even ten years old yet!”

“No, I’m not sorry! She should leave you alone!” Before his father could speak again, Ned had turned back to Evadne, his eyes flashing. “You’re the same age as Auntie Elsie, so why don’t you have a husband of your own like she does?”

Edgar was absolutely furious, and began to order his son up to his room, but Evadne stopped him before he could finish getting the words out. “It’s okay, Edgar, I’ll answer his question.” She turned round to face Ned, the calm look on her face belying the emotions that were churning within. “I almost did have a husband, Ned, but he died.”

It was the last answer Ned was expecting, and he simply said “Oh,” and fell silent.

Evvy looked around the table, seeing the looks of horror on Edgar and Amelia’s faces, then wiping her mouth on her napkin, she pushed her chair back and stood up. “If you’ll excuse me, I think I’ll just head upstairs and read awhile,” and shooting a small smile at Edgar who was giving her an apologetic look, she turned and left the room.

Marcia jumped down from her seat to try and follow her, but Edgar grabbed her arm and held her back. “No, poppet, you stay down here. Give Auntie Evvy some peace and quiet for a bit,” and as the little girl returned to her seat, he swung round to look at his son, “Well, I hope you’re proud of yourself! I suggest you go and spend the rest of the afternoon in your room. I don’t think I even want to look at you just now. I’m thoroughly ashamed of you.”

Ned opened his mouth to argue back at his father when Thea rounded on him, her little face scarlet with anger. “You’re just the meanest boy ever, Ned Watson. You’ve upset Auntie Evvy and she was being your friend and being nice. You’re so horrid, I hate you!”

“Yeah, well I hate you too!” and feeling thoroughly aggrieved, Ned flung himself out of his chair and made for the door. As he reached it, he turned back to face the table, tears in his eyes, “You don’t care about me, you just care about her! I hate you all!” and with that he left the room, slamming the door behind him. They heard him stomping his way up the staircase, and as his bedroom door slammed overhead, Edgar heaved a sigh and leant forward, his head in his hands.


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 1:02 am; edited 3 times in total

 


#381:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 11:54 am


Thanks Jo lovely posts to catch up on. Love the way Evvy is slowly beginning to realise but I suspect it will be a long while before she accepts the situation and I would also think that Edgar will be very careful how he approaches her after what she has just said to him. This is such a lovely happy feeling drabble.

 


#382:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 12:20 pm


That poor MG!!! Edgar is very trusting to send his daughter out with Evvy!! Laughing Ned's reaction is very realistic given what happened with Tamara, Im very glad his sisters stuck up for Evvy!! Thanks Jo Very Happy

 


#383:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 12:35 pm


Aww poor Ned! Hope he comes round soon and hope that Edgar can talk to him about how he's feeling.Love Marcia and Thea and their love of Evvy. But that poor MG!

 


#384:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 12:54 pm


Poor Ned - I hope Edgar can understand how hard it is for him to suddenly find Evvy established as a friend of everyone else in the family when he's not met her before. Hope Evvy is ok - I have a horrid feeling she might not be reading. Thanks Jo Liz

 


#385:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 12:59 pm


Lucky Evvy getting an MG! I wonder how long it will take Ned to come round to Evvy's charms!

 


#386:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 1:11 pm


Poor Ned. I can quite understand how he feels. (((all of them))) thank you Josie. This is just so realistic.

 


#387:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 1:32 pm


Poor Ned, he's still wanting to protect his father after what happened with Tamara, although I think Evvy's reply may have given him something to think about. Loved the girls though Very Happy Thanks Jo JackieJ

 


#388:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 2:06 pm


Poor Ned Sad But the girls were wonderful, only the car... the car! Thanks Jo Very Happy

 


#389:  Author: KathyeLocation: Laleham PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 5:56 pm


Jo How COULD you let her do that to a MG Shocked Oh god the trauma.................. :pale:

 


#390:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 7:29 pm


im not at all concerned about the car - im worried about NED! he used to be so lovely! *pokes tamara whatsherface*

 


#391:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 9:33 pm


Can totally understand Ned's reaction - but hope he comes round soon - Evvy's reply will have given him something to think about. Poor Evvy. Crying or Very sad

 


#392:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 10:05 pm


Thanks Jo!!! Poor Evvy, and poor Ned!

 


#393:  Author: KathyeLocation: Laleham PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 10:28 pm


francesn wrote:
im not at all concerned about the car - im worried about NED!
Well I'm pretty convinced (can't think why) that Ned will survive and all will be well .............................. the car I'm not so sure about, the way Evvy drives Shocked

 


#394:  Author: FelixLocation: Bristol PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 10:47 pm


I have just spent the last few hours reading both this and Long Road Home from the beginning and it is brilliant! Very Happy I came down with a cold today and was feeling pretty grotty, but the evening has simply flown - not without a few tears here and there, but also with a great deal of enjoyment. I can't believe I have caught up now though and have to wait for the next part like everyone else. At least Evvy is slowly beginning to realise how she feels! Thank you Jo!

 


#395:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 11:24 am


Sitting on her bed, her back against the headboard and her arms resting on her knees, Evadne stared out of the window lost deep in thought. A knock on the door recalled her to her senses, and with a “Come in”, she turned her head as Edgar came into the room.

“Book’s good then?” he quipped, his eyes on her copy of The Catcher in the Rye that lay on the bedside table.

“Didn’t feel much like reading.”

Crossing the room, he came and perched on the edge of the bed, looking at her with concern. “Are you okay? I’m so sorry he upset you.”

Evadne smiled. “He didn’t, not about Ralph in any case. But I don’t think he likes me all that much, Edgar, and if that’s the case then perhaps I shouldn’t be here.” Edgar opened his mouth to protest but she cut him off. “You don’t need me creating trouble in your family. I can easily go home today and then come and see the girls some other time when he’s back at school. This is Ned’s home, and if my being here is so upsetting for him then that’s not fair.”

Edgar shook his head. “Evvy, I’m not sure what’s up with him, but you mustn’t think it’s your fault, okay? He should never have been so rude to you. I think he’s a bit protective after what happened with Tamara, but that’s no excuse for talking to you the way he did. He hardly knows you, and he was fine with you yesterday when we were at Paul and Elsie’s he even seemed to quite like you then!”

“Yes, but then I was just another one of your circle of friends at someone else’s party. I wasn’t in his home, being treated as part of his family. You can hardly blame him for acting up after Tamara I mean, think how uncertain Thea was of me at first. They’re not used to you having close female friends, Edgar, or not ones that come without a husband at least, and Tamara’s the only real example they have of that. It’s no wonder he thinks I’m trying to worm my way into your life.”

“I suppose so.”

“Please do me a favour, don’t force him to apologise, okay? It really is no big deal.”

“I’m sorry, Evvy, I can’t do that. He has to apologise, I’m not bending the rule on that one. Whether he likes you or not, he needs to learn that he cannot talk to people like that.” As she looked at him, she could see the determination in his eyes, and decided not to argue the point. Edgar smiled at her and reached out, putting a hand on her arm. “And you’re staying put, alright? I won’t hear any argument. We all want you here, and Ned’s got to realise he can’t always get his own way.”

“Oh come on, Edgar, that’s not really fair. He’s just looking out for you all, especially you.”

Pausing to consider this for a minute, he recognised the truth in what she said, and inwardly kicked himself for not realising it sooner. “Yes, I think you’re right.”

“Of course I’m right!” Evadne grinned at him, then seeing the worry etched on his face, she placed a hand on the one that still clutched her arm, and gave it a squeeze. “Go and talk to him, Edgar. He needs you far more than I do right now. I’m big and ugly enough to take care of myself!”

Edgar smiled and stared at her in silence for a moment, thinking, not for the first time, how glad he was that she had come into his life. He gave her arm a final squeeze and retracted his hand, getting to his feet. “Thanks, Evvy,” and as she returned his smile, he left the room in search of his son.


On first entering Ned’s room, Edgar thought that it was empty and turned to leave again, thinking that the boy must have gone downstairs. He was just about to walk out of the door when his ears caught the sound of a shuffled movement, and walking back around the bed, he found his son sat on the floor, his back against the bed, hugging his knees to his chest. Edgar stared down at him for a few seconds and then sat down facing him with his back against the wall.

Ned looked up at his father, and giving him a glare, he turned to face away from him. His temper had calmed down shortly after reaching his room, but he was still feeling sore at his perceived ill-treatment, and he did not understand how his father couldn’t see he was about to make the same mistake all over again.

“Ned, do you want to tell me what’s going on?” Ignoring the question, Ned stared at the wall in silence, screwing his eyes closed to try and pretend that his father wasn’t there. He heard Edgar take a deep breath. “Ned, if you don’t talk to me, tell me what’s bothering you, then I can’t do anything to help, can I?”

His words were greeted with further silence, and thinking he should perhaps leave the talk until later, Edgar got to his feet and started to walk away.

“Why did you have to get another friend?”The question stopped Edgar in his tracks, and retracing his steps, he sat down again. Ned lifted his head and looked his father in the face. “You said that after Donkey Face, it would just be us and Granny. You promised!”

Despite himself, Edgar almost laughed out loud at this reference to his ex-fiance. He knew the nickname that his children had given Tamara among themselves, but this was the first time he had heard one of them say it out loud. He pulled himself together and returned his son’s gaze. “Yes, Ned, I did say that, you’re right. But Miss Lannis isn’t a friend like Tamara was she’s a friend like Uncle Paul and Auntie Elsie are. She’s come down to stay for a few days because the girls asked her to, that’s all. There’s nothing more to it than that.”

Ned stared at him for a few seconds, then said, “Oh,” and looked down at the floor.

Seeing that his son appeared to be listening to him, Edgar continued. “She’s very nice you know, I think you’d like her if you’d give her a chance. She was at school with Auntie Elsie and they’ve been friends for a very long time, just like Uncle Paul and I have. You don’t think Auntie Elsie would be friends with someone who wasn’t nice, do you?”

Ned shook his head. “No, I s’pose not.”

“Look, Ned, I know why you said what you did and that you don’t want anyone to hurt us again, and I appreciate you trying to protect me, I really do. But you’ve got it wrong this time, son, it’s not like it was before, okay?” The young boy nodded his head. “Now, I’d like you to go and see Miss Lannis and tell her that you’re sorry you were so rude to her. Even if you don’t like somebody, you should never speak to them in the way that you did.”

Continuing to stare at the floor, Ned set his mouth in a straight line. “Maybe.”

Edgar gave a sigh. “Well, then you’ll stay up here and think about it until that ‘maybe’ becomes a ‘yes’. You’re not coming downstairs again until you’re ready to apologise.” Pausing for a minute, he looked at his son’s obstinate expression. “And she’s staying here until Sunday, Ned. She’s our guest, and myself, Granny and the girls all want her here, so you have to get used to that.”

Deciding that there was little else to be said right now, Edgar got to his feet. He looked down at his son, who was still staring at the rug on which he was sitting, and then he left the room, leaving the little boy alone to think about what had been said.

(removed double post - Kathye)

ETA: thanks Kathye


Last edited by Josie on Wed Mar 09, 2005 1:06 am; edited 3 times in total

 


#396:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 11:40 am


That was lovely,Josie - glad Edgar insisted that Evvy stay. Hope Ned will come round soon.

 


#397:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 11:51 am


Thanks Jo Very Happy Hope Ned realises that Evvy is a Good Thing soon.

 


#398:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 11:55 am


Thanks Josie - I'm so glad Edgar didn't come down heavy-handedly on Ned - not that I thought he would because he's so yummy!! And I did laugh out loud at 'Donkey Face' :laughing: Liz

 


#399:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 2:00 pm


Poor Ned! I can understand his fears after the experience of 'Donkey Face'. Twisted Evil Edgar is handling things really well and I think Evvy is showing a tremendous amount of maturity, here.

 


#400:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 3:56 pm


Very believable! You can’t really expect Ned to fall over Evvy after Donkey-Face (such a good name Laughing). Pleased to see both Evvy’s & Edgar’s responses – though I’m sorry for Evvy. Imagine needing proper comfort reading and having only Catcher in the Rye available. Shocked

 




The CBB -> St Agnes's House


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