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Back on the Tiernsee (updated 18/8 p12 COMPLETE )

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The CBB -> Ste Therese's House

#1: Back on the Tiernsee (updated 18/8 p12 COMPLETE ) Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 7:31 pm
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This is my first ever drabble, so please tell me if its not good enough to be here, because i'm rather worried about the quality of it myself... constructive critiscism would be appreciated

Lady Russell sighed contentedly. She had not realised how much she had missed that bluer-than-blue lake. All these years had gone by, yet the memories were as clear as if it was yesterday. Of course there had been many bad times that she wished she could forget, but for the moment at least, there was a wave of happiness flowing over her. And the memories were all happy. It had been the right decision to come back here she realised, and she turned to smile at the petite figure standing close by, and watching her so anxiously.

"Oh Madge", the woman said, "To see you smile like that makes me so happy".
"Robin dearest", Madge began,"I'm so glad you made me come back here. I think my life will be easier now that I am only surrounded by memories of Joey before she became so ill..."
She trailed off trying to hold back the tears that were so close to the surface these days.
Robin bit her lip, and asked herself for the thousandth time if this had been the right idea.
Yes, she thought, Madge had been miserable for so long now and she, Robin, knew that it would have been Jo's last wish for her dear sister to be happy in life. And Robin owed Jo so much, and as much as she missed Jo, she must try to be strong.. for Madge's sake.

Last edited by brie on Fri Aug 18, 2006 10:22 am; edited 41 times in total

#2: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 7:34 pm
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This is great, Brie. I am really intrigued and am looking forward to reading more. Have no worries about its qualities - its really good!

#3: Author: arky72, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 7:47 pm
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I enjoyed that and I want to know what has happened to Joey - now! (I am terribly impatient!)

#4: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 7:58 pm
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Hope this makes sense!

Con put down the letter with a relieved smile.
It had been her who had noticed how awful her Aunt Madge looked. That as the months went by Madge's grief was not getting less. Len had refused to listen, to busy with her new son to have time for anyone else. Margot was away, having only been given leave for a short time, for the funeral. That only left Con, and Con was not exactly tactful- and she knew it!
She had hunted through her mind for someone else who was close enough to the family to help Madge, yet not too tied down with their own grief to be of no use to. All of a sudden it had come to her, the small serene figure who had comforted all the maynard children through that troublesome time... Sister Marya Cecilia.

Robin had soon realised that Madge needed a complete change. Since her arrival at the platz there had only been death: first the slow, painful death of her husband, and then only 6 months later the sudden unexpected death of her younger sister, who had been almost a daughter to her.

There had only been one solution in her mind, she had to take Madge to a happier place, one full of sweet memories, not death. One time particuliarly stood out in Robin's memory, and that is why she had been so adament in her insistence of whisking Madge away to the tirol.

#5: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 8:00 pm
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Poor Madge, losing both Jem and Jo so close together. Thanks, brie, this is an excellent beginning.

#6: Author: Lottie, Location: Humphrey's Corner

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 8:04 pm
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This looks good to me, brie. I love stories set at the Tiernsee - it is such a beautiful place. But I want to know what happened to Joey. Poor Madge to lose Jem and Joey so close together like that. Trust Con to notice things, and good that she didn't jump in tactlessly. It's nice that Robin can get awayand come and help the family.

#7: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 8:09 pm
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Thanks, Brie. This is really great so far. I am sorry that Madge has lost Jem and Joey in a short space of time.

#8: Author: Aquabird, Location: North Lanarkshire, Scotland

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 8:19 pm
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This is really good, brie. Please continue. Smile

#9: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 8:41 pm
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Welcome to the CBB, Brie, and this is great so far ... even if it is very sad Crying or Very sad

...

#10: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 9:26 pm
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Thanks for all those nice things everyone has been saying!!

Back on the shore of the tiernsee, Madge and Robin were strolling through the trees, when all of a sudden Robin forgot her dignity, and the fact that the first silver hairs had started to appear on her head, as she let out a squeal of joy, which made Madge jump in shock. Robin broke into a run, and Madge chased after her. The result of this was that the two of them almost pitched into the stream ahead. Luckily although she was small, Robin was also strong, and she managed to keep her balance. Madge started to scold Robin- momentarily forgeting that Robin was no longer six years old! But Robin just laughed, and then pointed to the site which had caused her so much excitement. They were standing right in front of a rock which had water simply gushing over it.

"Madge, Madge!", Robin cried,"It's the dripping rock"

"Oh Robin, its beautiful. But did you really want to go for a swim in this particular stream again?"

"again?"

"Robin don't you remember when you fell in here before? It was rufus who saved you, rufus and..and..", here Madge was forced to stop, as her lip started to quiver at the memory of her young and overenergetic sister.

"Joey? joey saved me?", She owed Joey even more than she had previously realised then. She did not just owe joey for the love and sense of family she had always had. She owed Joey her life.

#11: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 9:35 pm
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This is great, Brie. Lovely to see Robin and Madge interacting as adults.

#12: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 10:01 pm
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as im new to this drabble writing business, i was wondering how I can change the drabble title? Like if i wanted to write that there was updates to the story or whatever? Help would be much appreciated!!
thanks,
Brie

#13: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 10:16 pm
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Open your first post and click on the edit button. You can change the title there.

#14: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 10:48 pm
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Thanks, Brie. It was interesting to see them back at the Dripping Rock.

#15: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 12:07 am
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Welcome to the CBB Brie Very Happy

Thank you for this, I'm really enjoying this and it looks really interesting

#16: Author: arky72, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 7:57 am
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This is lovely, thanks Brie.

#17: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 8:28 am
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Thanks pat, now hopefully (fingers crossed) i will be able to do that!!

Madge was sitting alone. Robin had left a few minutes ago, to go to the chapel to spend some solitary time in prayer. Madge looked up wistfully towards the sonnalpe. Her life had been so much simpler then. It had been a much easier and happier time. She had been newly married, she had given birth to her two oldest children there.

Then slowly her mind wandered back, to that old abandoned chalet that had been so dear to her. Life, she thought, had been perfectly blissful then, all those dear girls. She wondered how she had ever managed to leave here. The sheer beauty of this place just made her want to stand still and drink in the view for hours.

She looked out onto those clear waters, and then suddenly let out a positive gurgle of laughter as she remembered that memorable day when joey had jumped clear over the path and straight into the lake! The girls had not let her forget that for a long time afterwards. Not that Joey had noticably been subdued after her bath. But then, Joey was joey- she was not easily suppressed.

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

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 8:37 am
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Such sad memories - are we to hear how Joey and Jem died?

Thanks Brie.

#19: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 9:31 am
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This is so sad, I feel so sorry for Madge.

Thanks Brie

#20: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 10:48 am
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Sorry, you will all have to wait a wee bit for how they died, i'm afraid it might not be as exciting as you hope though

Robin walked alone, along the shore of the lake. She missed Joey so much, although she hadn't seen Joey for many years. She had never even got to say goodbye. None of them had. Perhaps thats why everyone was struggling so much to get over her death. They had never been able to let go. Joey had been such a big part of all their lives. She had never refused to help someone. Now that she was gone, without her to hold them all together, and look after them, they were all breaking down. Joey had been such an important part of everyones lives. If it hadn't been for her the family would have suffered much more from Jem's slow and painful passing. She had held them together through their grief, and now it was Robin who had to try and take over this role and look after Joey's family- her family- as best as she possibly could.

#21: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 10:57 am
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I wonder how Jem died. Thanks, Brie.

#22: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 11:15 am
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I really hope Robin and Madge can come to terms with their losses. Thanks, brie.

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

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 11:41 am
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How sad - sounds like cancer or something for Jem, but what about Joey?

Thanks Brie.

Last edited by Lesley on Sat Jul 08, 2006 3:58 pm; edited 1 time in total

#24: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 12:38 pm
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Poor Jem Crying or Very sad

#25: Author: MaryR, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 12:54 pm
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i do hope her happy memories will help her recovery.

Thank you, Brie.

#26: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 1:14 pm
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Thank you Brie, I'm sure Robin will rise to the occasion.

#27: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 3:51 pm
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Ruey Richardson sat at home nervously peering out the window. She hoped they wouldn't see her. Afterall how long could they stay here for? Surely Robin would have to go back to her convent soon? Madge would never stay here alone. Ruey was sure of that. She could hide out here for another week or two and then they would be gone. Everything would go back to normal. Ruey felt sorry for Madge's loss, but that would still not convince her to see her. Madge may be hurt now, but she had caused so much pain to Ruey- and Ruey did not forgive easily. Not that she expected an apology, Lady Russell was far to full of her own importance to think that that little scamp Ruey would ever deserve an apology. Even Aunt Joey had not been able to convince Madge of that.

Suddenly Ruey ducked down, and started crawling towards the door into her bedroom. Silence surrounded her. Had she been seen? Surely she had been quick enough? That was that then, she would just have to hide out here. She would live on take-aways if she had to, nothing was going to convince Ruey to have anything to do with that vile, snobbish woman.

I'm not sure if the reference to "take-aways" is a bit much? Did take-aways even exist back then? (then being when the triplets/ruey were about 25, so 1970ish possibly?) If that bit is just stupid please tell me and i will edit it out, thanks

#28: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 3:53 pm
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Oooo, I wonder what Ruey did!

#29: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 3:53 pm
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Hmmm...and how does Ruey fit into all of this? Very intriguing, thanks Brie!

#30: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 4:02 pm
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Oh, a mystery! I'm looking forward to having lots of questions answered, thanks Brie.

#31: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 4:28 pm
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"Madge you look like you have seen a ghost"

"Don't be silly dear, I'm fine"

"Are you sure Madge?"

"Of course Robinette, don't worry. I'm fine"

Madge searched through her mind, for a way to change the subject. She did not want Robin to find out that Ruey lived in the Tirol. She tried not to think about why she didn't want Robin to know.

"So, so what shall we do this evening then, my dear?"

"Well Madge, if you are sure that you are alright, then I have a little suprise for you. "

"A surprise?", said Madge weakly. Surely, she didn't know that Ruey lived in innsbruck.

"Yes, we are going for dinner with some old friends. I wont tell you any more than that. I don't want to spoil the surprise", Robin finished with a cheeky grin which was in total contrast with her angelic features.

Madge breathed a sigh of relief. "Robin, sometimes its hard to remember that you are a responsible adult, a nun in fact, and not a babe of eight"

Robin giggled. "When was the last time you saw an eight year old with streaks of silver in her hair?"

"Robin, you haven't grown up at all have you", Madge laughed in spite of herself, "well you certainly haven't grown in height thats for sure."

Robin's face was a picture.

"Madge, how mean! I'm not sure you deserve to go out for dinner at all!"

Madge just about collapsed with laughter at the sight of Robin's face, and Robin seeing that Madge was finally relaxing also giggled, and their clear laughter could be heard by all the neighbouring tourists, who were mystified, to say the least by these middle aged women laughing like schoolgirls.

#32: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 4:43 pm
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Thanks Brie, I look forward to meeting the old friends too!

#33: Author: Laura V, Location: Merseyside, UK

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 4:49 pm
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just read this one for the first time today and it's lovely! so moving! Thanks Brie!

#34: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 5:10 pm
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Also looking forward to meeting the old friends! & wondering what the problem with Ruey is.

If Ruey's 25 it'll be around 1965.

#35: Author: Lottie, Location: Humphrey's Corner

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 6:07 pm
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Alison H wrote:

If Ruey's 25 it'll be around 1965.

So I don't think that there would be take-aways as we know them today, but I should have thought that some of the shops would be happy to deliver anything Ruey might require, so she can carry on hiding from Madge. Why she wants to do that is only one of the things we are still wanting to know about.

Thanks, brie, I'm really enjoying this.

#36: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 7:22 pm
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On returning to the hotel to prepare for their evening in Innsbruck, Robin was surprised to be presented with a somewhat crumpled letter.
"I'm so sorry fraulein Humphries but the letter was lost down the side of my desk at the start of the week, I only just found it now. I'm so sorry", the assistant looked at Robin worriedly but Robin just smiled and thanked her warmly. No doubt it was not important. It could wait till tomorrow at least. Robin hurried after Madge up the stairs and and shoved the letter into the pocket of her blazer.

"Come on Madge" She called, "It would be awfully rude to be late... especially after all these years."

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

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 7:48 pm
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Another mystery - bet the letter's important.

Thanks brie

#38: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 8:48 pm
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You could get fish and chips in the UK then of course - the original and best take-away. Chinese restaurants were just opening all over then, and I think you could get take-aways from them. Not totally sure about that though.

#39: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sat Jul 08, 2006 9:11 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I wonder what the mystery about Ruey and about the letter is.

#40: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 10:42 am
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Despite herself Madge was excited. She was hurriedly searching her mind for friends who were living in Austria at the moment. The train pulled into Innsbruck at this moment however, so she was forced to stop pondering and gather her belongings together. As they stepped on to the platform she started to glance round curiously.
"Madame", a sweet voice called,"Madame".
Madge looked at her curiously there was something familiar about the face but she couldn't place it. Anyway this girl was surely far to young to be the old friend Robin was talking about.
Robin stepped in here.
"You must be Natalie",she smiled her almost cherubic smile at the girl, "I'm Sister Marya Cecilia, but please call me Robin. I remember when you were just a baby and your Mother used to let me help to look after you!"
Finally it clicked in Madges mind. "Natalie Mensch! Oh how you have changed, I haven't seen you in years. How's your mother and Father?"
"They're fine I live nearby so I offered to come and meet you so that Mother could finish cooking the meal. If you don't mind I think we will just walk, it is not far form here."
Madge and Robin walked after her, only half listening to her merry chatter as they drank in the old familiar sights of the town.
They soon approached some pretty apartment buildings. "Don't worry they only live on the first floor so it's not a long flight of stairs", said Natalie laughingly, "They always complain when they visit me and my husband, as we live on the top floor of our appartments".
They had reached the door by now, and it was flung open by an anxious woman whos dark hair was wound round her head.
"Madame! Robin liebchein! Oh how happy I am to see you both!", Gisela stood at the door a happy yet almost unbelieving expression on her face.
"Gisela darling, are you not going to let them in?", a Tall fair man appeared behind Gisela, not all that changed despite the streaks of grey through his short hair. Gisela looked embarassed, and after quickly hugging and kissing Madge and the Robin she finally let them in.
Madge was dazed. "Oh Gisela, i'm so happy to see you again, and you Gottfried!" Then, while Natalie stood quietly in a corner waiting for her parents to come to their senses, it was Robins turn. "Little Robin it is so good to see you again", Gottfrieds exclamation was completely genuine. Afterall he had helped to care for her through her delicate childhood years, and they had a close bond, for Robin would not have been alive today had it not been for Gottfrieds undoubtable bravery during the Nazi regime. Gottfrieds thoughts were running along a similar line. He had not been in contact with the Robin since she had written to tell him she was going to become a nun. He had been so glad she had written to him telling her, he had always had a soft spot in his heart for the angel child he had carried across half of Austria. He had been so touched that she had always remembered his bravery, and always kept in touch with them, even asking his advice on wether he thought she should join the order. Suddenly, Robin could not restrain herself and she flung her arms around Gottfried, and after that it was a free for all in hugs and tears between the four old friends.

Later that evening talk turned to another old friend. One whom even Natalie remembered fondly.

Im sorry if there is any mentions of gisela meeting madge in any of the later books, or of Gisela living somewhere else.

#41: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 10:46 am
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That was lovely, seeing how Gottfried felt about Robin. Thanks, Brie.

#42: Author: Lottie, Location: Humphrey's Corner

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 11:47 am
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I think there are references to Gottfried living in Innsbruck in Two Sams, so you're fine with that, brie. I don't remember Madge and Gisela meeting after they left the Sonnalpe, although I think that they must have seen each other during the years that Gottfried worked at the San in the Welsh mountains, but this is obviously about twenty years later.

I'm wondering about the letter, and about the other old friend - I have every faith that you will reveal all when the time is right. Thanks, brie.

#43: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 12:20 pm
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That was lovely. Gottfried is nice!

#44: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 12:24 pm
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I don't think they had met up before - Gisela and Gottfried lived in America for a while, and not long after they came back to Europe Madge went off to Australia. Nice to see them again!

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

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 12:34 pm
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What a lovely reunion, thanks Brie.

#46: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 12:53 pm
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Thanks, Brie, how did Madge get across Ruey?

#47: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 1:22 pm
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Thanks for all the lovely comments i'm glad you are all enjoying this, and that I havent made any huge EBDisms!

Natalie had been quiet for most of the evening. Despite having left school and getting married, she was still rather in awe of her schools founder. The fact that Robin was a nun, made her unnaproachable to Natalie as Natalie could think of nothing appropriate to say to her. How really was she supposed to have a conversation with a nun she wondered. She had therefore sat there for much of the evening listening quietly. Now her mother changed the subject, and Natalie noticed a sudden atmosphere change in the room, and wondered.

"Madge", said Gisela gently,"I was so sorry to hear about that terrible accident, I want you to know that you have our sincerest sympathys."

Madge nodded at Gisela, up till now this evening had been one happy reunion, but now this reminded her of the one person who Madge would have liked to share the evening with. Gisela was aware that Madge looked uncomfortable with the mention of her sisters death. This would not have surprised her except that under the obvious sadness on Madge's face, Gisela thought she sensed something else. Just the quickest glimmer of guilt, perhaps? However Gisela dismissed this idea quickly, for she could think of no reason why Madge could have had anything to do with Joey's death. Why she had not even been in the country, had she?

#48: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 1:26 pm
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brie wrote:

Just the quickest glimmer of guilt, perhaps?

This is rather intriguing! I'm looking forward to having a full description of Jo's death! Thanks, Brie.

#49: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 2:00 pm
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After a lovely evening, only slightly marred by Madge's quietness towards the end, Robin and Madge stood up to leave. As they were staying at a hotel in Innsbruck for the night it was not until the next morning that Robin got to read her letter. After scanning the letter she put it down and stared blankly ahead. She had not been expecting that. Hesitantly,for the letter had set her mind in a whirl to say the least, she picked it up again to read it more thoroughly.

Dear Aunt Rob

You may not remember me, and i want you to know that under any other circumstances I would not ask such a large favour of you. However desperate times call for desperate measures and when Sybil told me that you were taking Mum to Austria to get over the loss I felt that I needed to write, even if it was just to warn you. You see Mum and I aren't talking anymore, and sybs and josette are convinced that is part of the reason why she is so depressed. I don't agree, I don't think she has much of a heart these days. I don't want to put you in the middle Aunt Robin but something needs to be done, and soon because its only a matter of time before they meet, and that would be a disaster. I can't really explain this well in a letter- its too personal. I think it would be easier face to face, so if you go to the address written on the back of this sheet then you can meet the person at the centre of this whole muddle. And Auntie Rob please listen to what she has to say, a lot has changed since you left us all those years ago. People change- and not always for the better.
Regards,
David

What on earth was David trying to tell her in that letter? Well there was only one answer and that was back in Innsbruck, and if this had anything to do with Madge then she didn't really have a choice but to go, but really of all th cryptic letters! She could gladly have shook David after the third reading of the letter still revealed nothing but more mysteries.

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

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 2:00 pm
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Ooooh, mystery!!!!

Thanks Brie.

#51: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 2:06 pm
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And so the plot thickens! This is keeping me on the edge of my seat, Brie!

#52: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 2:23 pm
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Thanks, Brie. It was nice to see Natalie, Gottfried and Gisela. The mystery is definitely thickening about how Joey died.

#53: Author: Aquabird, Location: North Lanarkshire, Scotland

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 2:26 pm
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This is fascinating, thanks Brie.

#54: Author: Lottie, Location: Humphrey's Corner

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 3:39 pm
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I'm intrigued, too. Presumably David has given Robin Ruey's address. But what on earth has been going on?

Thanks, brie.

#55: Author: jonty, Location: Exeter

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 4:08 pm
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I've just found this, what a thriller! My heart was in my mouth when Robin didn't read the letter immediately, because I felt sure she was innocently taking Madge to meet Ruey.

Thanks, Brie, I'm really enjoying this, and I'm desperate to know what Madge has done Smile

*imagines hit squads and the Mafia*

#56: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 4:20 pm
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We'd like to know about this mystery, Brie. Thanks for the new posts, but they were just a little short.

I always want more drabble.

#57: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 5:12 pm
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This is great Brie, thank you! You certainly know how to keep us on the edge of our seats Very Happy

#58: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 5:27 pm
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Well done Lottie! You guessed it! Im in a bit of a bad mood though as the bunnies have come up with a completely new drabble for me to write rather than helping me finish this one! Oh well never mind, and I will try to make this a longer post... Just to explain the start of this post is a flashback/dream..

The Sports Achievement Ball was proving to be as awful as David had predicted. He groaned as another awful song came blaring out from the truly awful band the university had hired. Rix Bettany turned round and glared at his cousin.
"You could at least try and show a little enthusiasm. This Party is partly in honour of yourself you know."
"Is that supposed to make me feel any better? That its my fault for inflicting this noise on all the people in this room."
Rix laughed, "Ok so they are not great, but look at all these girls. Who would have thought lacrosse players could look so good."
David rolled his eyes. Rix was notorious for his complete inability to not have a girlfriend (or three) at any given time.
"So how many have you asked out yet then?", said David trying to sound as though he was at least slightly interested in his cousins love life.
"None, but I have spotted an absolute hottie of a freshman- that girl standing over there", Rix waved his hand in the general direction of a clump of chattering girls, "Well are you coming or not? and try to act cool please. I don't want you ruining my chances!"
David once again rolled his eyes but condescended to follow his older cousin across the hall. Rix was hailed with enthusiasm by the girls, as they all vied for his attention. However David was more interested in the girl standing slightly to the side of the group, her eyebrows slightly raised, looking unimpressed by Rix's behaviour. In fact she looked frankly bored by it. David looked at her trying to decide how to approach her. She was not pretty, but there was something nice about her face that made him see that she was kind. He didn't normally have time for the kind of girls Rix was forever introducing him too, but this one was different. She didn't like Rix, and that was certainly attractive. He wondered why though, afterall as far as he knew all girls liked Rix. A lot. She caught his questionning glance.
"I have two brothers, I'm used to that kind of behaviour whenever they want anything. Flattery doesn't work for me."
He grinned at her. "i'll have to remember not to say anything nice to you then", he said. She smiled back. "I'm Ruey."
"David", he stared at her wondering if she was joking, "Is that really your name?"
"It's short for Ruhannah."
He raised his eyebrows at this, and she grinned at him, she always enjoyed the shock her name gave to people.

David woke with a jolt. He had fallen asleep at his desk. Again. He banged his head of the desk three times. Why had he let her get away? He needed her like he needed to breathe. Yet she was gone and it was all his fault. Well his and of course the source of all the problems in his life- his mother.

I'm not really sure about the age gap between these two. It must be about 5 or 6 years? I hope its not more, but that flashback was supposed to be set when Ruey was just starting university and David was near the end ( as he is studying medicine and that is a long course, hopefully this is realistic)

#59: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 5:35 pm
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Thanks Brie, I'm not too sure of the ages myself but this looks very intriguing!

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

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 5:36 pm
—
Interesting, very interesting. Think David is some five years older than the triplets who are about a year or so older than Ruey, so that works!

Thanks brie.

#61: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 5:41 pm
—
David was nearly 7 when Josette was born, so he'll be about 8 years older than Ruey. EBD always seemed to think that girls should go for older men so it must be a perfect match Laughing

! Can't wait to find out what happened to Joey.

#62: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 7:07 pm
—
Thanks, Brie. It's interesting to see Ruey and David meet and not realise the connection between the 2 of them.

#63: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 7:20 pm
—
For the fourth time Robin bent down to check the adress on the sheet of paper. Hoping that David had at least copied down the adress properly Robin knocked on the door. She wasn't sure what she was going to say. She might not even know the person. David could at least of told her who she was going to meet.

* * *

Ruey heard the doorbell ring and hesitated.Should she answer it? It could be anyone afterall. The chances were it was someone she wanted to see- or at least not Madge. Madge wouldn't be hunting her out, Ruey didn't think. Yes, it was probably okay to open the door.

She opened the door cautiously, and then groaned inwardly.

Robin looked at her curiously before introducing herself.
"i'm Robin Humphries, she said.
"Yes, I know sister",Ruey looked at her and then grudgingly invited her in.

"I'm sorry, i don't know you", said Robin apologetically.

"No, why would you? I was never an important member of the family. I just faded away after you all got bored of the new wards." Ruey's tone was bitter. "So why have you come here? Did she make you come? Did she order you to harangue me till I left her precious family alone?"

Robin almost leapt back at the viciousness of Rueys voice, and she looked slightly scared. Ruey had the grace to look slightly ashamed at herself. "I'm sorry" she said,"Of course she didn't send you, you don't even know who I am do you?" Robin shook her head slowly.
"I'm Ruey", even now she could not resist the surprised look on Robins face. "It's short for Ruhannah". "Please come in", and with that Ruey led Robin into a small rather dim sitting room. "I'm afraid the light in here is not great" she said.

"So why have you come here if you don't even know who I am?", then seeing that there was still confusion in Robins eyes, she explained, "Im one of Aunt Joey and Uncle Jacks wards ."
Finally Robin understood. Well that might be an exaggeration, but at least she knew who the girl was.
"I think you should read this, I didn't understand it but you might. David did send me here afterall." With this she passed the letter to the dumbstruck girl. David, David had sent this nun here, he had never thought to write to her, to talk to her. Indeed, why send a girl flowers, when you can send a nun? Ruey glowered at the letter, but nonetheless excepted it and started to read.

#64: Author: MaryR, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 10:51 pm
—
You've certainly set us a few mysteries, Brie. Shocked

Wondering now about this letter..

Thank you.

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

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 11:29 pm
—
Hadn't thought that - that Robin wouldn't know Ruey. Wonder what Madge has done to her?

Thanks brie.

#66: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 11:37 pm
—
Thank you for all these fab updates, Brie!

#67: Author: Lottie, Location: Humphrey's Corner

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 12:23 am
—
This just gets more intriguing.

Thanks, brie.

#68: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 5:32 am
—
It's a shame that Ruey is so bitter, I'm looking forward to what's made her this way. Thanks, brie.

#69: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 12:29 pm
—
Very intriguing. I wonder what's been going on and what Ruey's been up to?

#70: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 12:36 pm
—
Why has Madge taken against Ruey? Wonders.

#71: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 1:04 pm
—
I am interested to finding out what happened.

#72: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 7:02 pm
—
I assumed that Robin and Ruey wouldn't have met as Robin is away in her convent in France(?) also she might not know who Ruey is, as in Adrienne I think it is mentioned that dhe receives sends little corespondance. I also thought Ruey and David probably haven't met and David at least might not even know that Ruey exists.

Thoughts were swirling madly around Rueys head. That letter. Of course only David could write a letter like that. Such a letter might have in other circumstances have made Ruey smile, but these were not laughing circumstances. The letter mentioned nothing about them. What they had ment to each other. As she read that letter Ruey started to doubt that their relationship had meant anything to him. Was she just another girl? Of course here and there there were references that showed he was perhaps on her side- or was he just on the side opposing his mother? It wasn't an unhappy letter though, there was nothing in that letter that even slightly implied that he missed her. Robin interupted her thoughts here though.
"Ruey, are you alright?", Robin sounded concerned, she wondered if there was something in that letter that she had somehow missed.
"I'm fine." Ruey was shaking slightly, but there was a slight iciness in her tone which stopped Robin from inquiring further.
"I..I don't think I can help you. I'm sorry, you will have to try somewhere else." Ruey kept her eyes on the floor as she said this.
Robin tried to keep the disappointment out of her face at this. She knew that Ruey knew something but she felt it unwise to inquire further at this point. "Perhaps I could meet you again sometime."said Robin tentatively, "I should like to get to know my ... niece." Robin had no idea of their relationship to each other and had decided it would be simplest to call Ruey her niece. Although Robin didn't know it the use of the word "niece" went a lot furhter towards thawing Ruey than anything else could possibly have done. Ruey smiled at her, a flicker of her old cheeky self showing through her serious facade. "I would like that. You seem different from the rest of them."

#73: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 7:21 pm
—
Let's hope Ruey thaws enough to give Robin some answers.

#74: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 7:30 pm
—
*echoes Becky* I'm desperate to know what's been happening!

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

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 8:36 pm
—
David and Ruey may have seen each other at Peggy Bettany's wedding, but given the crowds of family there, and the fact that Ruey's two brothers were also present, they probably had very little to do with each other beyond a basic introduction - and that is very easily forgotton.

THere is no occasion when Roin would have met Ruey. Jo would probably have mentioned her adoption in a letter, or the triplets might have, but that does not mean Robin remembers every detail that she is told.

#76: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 8:38 pm
—
This is intriguing, so may we have some more please?

#77: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 8:44 pm
—
Thanks, Brie. I really hope that Ruey will open up to Robin.

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

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 9:01 pm
—
Very intriguing - what has happened to make Ruey so defensive and bitter???

Thanks brie.

#79: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 10:09 pm
—
Very moving.
Please carry on.

#80: Author: Aquabird, Location: North Lanarkshire, Scotland

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 10:10 pm
—
*intrigued*
Thanks Brie, this is great.

#81: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 9:27 am
—
I have just been searching for Ruey, and the book has gone completely missing Evil or Very Mad

so I cannot check up on anything- so I hope you can all forgive me for any shocking mistakes I make later on!!

As Robin sat on the train taking her home, she tried to order her thoughts. There was something going on of that she was sure, but what? Robin liked Ruey, despite the fact that she had been shouted at and been lied blatantly to by her. This puzzled Robin. Why did she like such an angry, confused young woman. There was something about her, Robin decided, which made them kindred spirits. She did not know what- they were so different. Then Robin realised, it was the faint air of sorrow about her, and the sense that she did not belong. Robin recognised both these things. She had felt these when she had grown up too. By this time Robin had already got off the train and onto the steamer going across the lake. She smiled at the lake. This is where she belonged. Alone or not alone. It was a lonely life being a nun. But very fulfilling, she reminded herself. She prepared to get off the steamer, and walk back to the Kronz Prince Karl. She walked slowly, lost in her thoughts. She detoured up to the Chalet which now stood abandoned and souless. Then slowly, slowly she walked back to see Madge. She was pounced on by an agitated girl.
"What took you so long! C'mon, I don't want to stay here longer than I have too." The surprised Robin speechlessly trailed after the girl who did not stop till they were back up at the chalet.
* * *
For Ruey to think was to act. It had not taken her five minutes after Robin left to realise that she wanted to confide her problems in someone, and what she had just seen of Robin she liked. Yes, Robin was genuine. It did not occur to her to wait another day or two to contact Robin again, no she chased after her there and then. Only to find she had just missed the train. A half hours wait was possibly not the best thing for an impatient Ruey, but she did try to calm herself down after her mad rush. She did not stop to think that she might run into Madge, until she was standing outside the hotel and there was still no sign of Robin. Thus as soon as she had seen the Robin she rushed her away.

Robin looked at her captor with raised eyebrows. This day, she thought to herself, was starting to get interesting. Now that she was here, Ruey had rather run out of steam. She cursed herself for once again throwing herself headlong into something without stopping to think. Right, she thought, just say it. Straight out. It wasn't a big deal. She screwed up her courage, and opened her mouth to begin.

#82: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 9:29 am
—
How can you leave us there, Brie?

#83: Author: Lottie, Location: Humphrey's Corner

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 9:37 am
—
This is fascinating, brie, but please come back and tell us what she said.

#84: Author: MaryR, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 10:14 am
—
Hopefully she will unburden herself to Robin and find some help.

Thanks, Brie.

#85: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 11:08 am
—
Very mysterious!

#86: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 11:11 am
—
Thanks, Brie. I hope that you will come back soon and tell us what happens next.

#87: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 11:33 am
—
I wonder what Ruey is going to tell Robin?

#88: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 2:16 pm
—
What a cliff! Thanks Brie, I hope you come back soon and tell us what she said!

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

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 5:39 pm
—
Nice cliff brie! Wink

#90: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 8:25 pm
—
I hope this doesn't disappoint.

Ruey felt rather tongue-tied. Everything was in a muddle, and she could hardly think straight. Robin had perched herself on a rock and was outwardly waiting patiently, inwardly there were fireworks going off in her head. Was she finally going to find out what everything meant she wondered, despite herself Robin was extremely curious about this whole affair.

Ruey cleared her throat. "It all began back when I was just starting University, I had only been there a term but I had joined the universities lacrosse team." Here she stopped. She was aware that if she went on in such detail they would be here all day, so she proceeded to lay out the barest of facts to Robin, who's face was full of sympathy as the story poured out. Robin suddenly realised that neither Ruey nor Madge had done anything dreadful- the situation had just got out of hand. Ruey found Robin to be a good listener for although Robin could not fully understand Rueys situation, afterall she had never been in love, her sympathy was genuine. Robin hugged Ruey and walked her to the steamer, promising to come and visit her soon to hear the full story as Ruey had decided to be brief and had calmly told Robin the basic story of several years in less than five minutes.

On returning to the hotel Robin found Madge lying outside basking in the sun whilst indulging in a novel. She plumped herself down beside Madge and decided that now was as good a time as ever to find out a bit more about what had been going on in madge's life for the last few years.

* * *
Ruey sat on the steamer, and felt almost happy for the first time in a long while. She had been very fair to Madge, she felt, she had not let her personal opinion show through at all, that could come later when she knew Robin better. She did not want Robin to hate Madge but just to clarify that it wasn't herself who was in the wrong, and to make sure that that nagging thought that there was something wrong with herself was not true.

* * *

"Madge I have been meaning to ask you, how are your children?", Robin felt that this was not too probing a question as too make Madge suspicious or uncomfortable, also she really wanted to know for she only really remembered them as small children, and she knew the twins not at all. Madge sat up, and closed her book. "This could take a while", she smiled,"Afterall there are six of them! Well the twins of course are still at school though Kester wants to leave as soon as possible so he can join the Navy. At one point I hoped Kevin would join the army, but that never happened instead he decided to become a doctor- like his father." Over a year had passed, and now Madge was managing to remember Jem with fondness rather than sadness. "Ailie has just left school, and is training at university. She wants to become an illustrator. She is in London just now. I heard from Steve Maynard who shes staying nearby too, that shes the beauty of the place, and popular with everyone. Luckily she has her head screwed well on, and is still non too fond of anything "Mushy" to quote her. As you know Sybil and Josette are both in Australia, and married. Josette has two sons, yes,"she siad laughingly,"I am a proud grandmother two times! Sybil has no children as yet but she has recently taken up church embroidery and I hear she is absolutely loving it." Luckily for Madge, there was a phonecall through for Robin at this point so she had to get up and leave, and Madge was not forced to endure talking about her eldest son.

Madge sat back and as she stared at the lovely scenery around her, her eyes clouded over.

David was coming back today. She was so excited, she hadn't seen him in so long, he had always been away at school or university and they had been in Australia. But now he was back on a vacation for three weeks. She was so thrilled. Jem came slowly down the stairs, trying to disguise his laboured breathing. Luckily for him, his wife was to excited at the prospect of seeing her son again to notice anything amiss.
"So have you made all the plans for this party tonight, then?", Jem looked at his wife with an amused smile, well did he know that she had relished in the planning of this welcome home party. "Of course i have Jem, as you fine well know!". Here Madge smiled a small secret smile, for she had planned an extra surprise which no one else knew about. She had wondered why her son had not shown any appearances of settling down, or having found the right girl yet. He was afterall over 25 years old. The matchmaker in her had decided that a party would be the perfect opportunity to introduce David to a nice girl. Ever since she had found out that David would be coming home that summer,she had been planning, turning over suitable girls in her mind to find one good enough for her son. She had finally come to a decision, she was convinced she had found the perfect girl for her son. A girl everyone liked. In fact there was really no one else like her. She was pretty, kind-hearted, smart, and she had a maturity beyond her years which Madge felt would endear her, to her rather serious son.

I wonder how many of you can guess who the girl is? I will post some more soon, I wouldn't want to overload you with too many cliffs in one day Wink

Im also sorry for any innaccuracys in ages, and the carrers/lifes of the Russell children. Of course some of it is made up, but im just hoping that nothing disagrees with anything EBD wrote

#91: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 9:52 pm
—
Not Mary-Lou, was it?

So if Ruey hasn't done anything "wrong", why's Madge so annoyed with her - is it just because she didn't think she was suitable for David Rolling Eyes

?

More soon, pretty please!

#92: Author: Aquabird, Location: North Lanarkshire, Scotland

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 11:05 pm
—
More please, brie!

#93: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 11:09 pm
—
Mary-Lou is the only one I can think of off the top of my head...can't wait to find out more, thanks Brie!

#94: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 12:11 am
—
Thanks, Brie. I look forward to finding out whom Madge had in mind.

#95: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 1:55 pm
—
Mary Lou came to my mind, too!

#96: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 2:13 pm
—
Oh no, it's bound to go wrong, whether it's OOAO or another girl.

#97: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 4:42 pm
—
All the guests had arrived, and Madge was anxiously watching the door. As she peered out the window she caught sight of the car coming up the drive. She hurriedly arranged everyone in the hall, so that David would see them all when he arrived. She pushed Mary-lou into the centre and quickly fixed Mary-lous hair much to that young ladys surprise. Madge looked at her future daughter in law with pride. She was wearing a beautifully cut white dress. Which made her look elegant and stunning.

Suddenly, the doorbell rang, everyone inside went silent and they could hear the rumble of Jems voice talking to his son. Madge went to open the door, and that is when the precious dream world she had been creating in her head came crashing down. David was there, tall and dark, but without the serious look on his face that he usually bore. Standing to one side of him was jem- leaning heavily on the porch railings and looking expectantly at Madge. On the other side was a slender, plain-looking girl with brown hair and freckles. She smiled nervously at Madge.

"Mum, Its great to see...", his voice was drowned out by the welcoming calls of his family and friends who were all gathered in front of the stiars. In the ensuing chaos no one noticed madge's tightly drawn lips, and the fact that she had never welcomed Ruey.

David cornered his mothers at the table where the drinks had been laid out.
"Mum, this is great! Dad says you've been planning this for weeks...Mum are you alright?"
"Fine David, fine,"She forced a smile onto her lips," Will you take a drink, oh and will you take this one over there to Mary-lou. You remeber Mary-lou don't you David? Hasn't she turned into a beauty."

"Ummm, yes i suppose so.. Mum theres someone i would like you to meet, whenever you get a moment- please mum?"

"Well dear I am rather busy at the moment. Why don't you give this to Mary-lou just now, and make sure you stay and talk to her, shes anxious to see you again." and with an innocent smile Madge walked away, convinced that no one would ever choose anyone else over the one and only Mary-lou. A little helping hand from herself and David would realise that Mary-lou was perfect for him. Satisfied, she looked around for her husband. She saw him sitting down talking to one of the young girls invited, she was wandering over towards him when she realised it was that tramp David had brought with him. She hadn't even bothered to learn the girls name, and she wasn't going to bother now.

"Jem, darling I need you, come here will you" ,Madge simpered.

"But Madge, why don't you come here and meet this wonderful young lady?" One look at Madge's face told him that this wasn't going to happen. "Excuse me." He said somewhat embarrasedly to Ruey, before going over to meet his wife. David, busy trying to disentangle himself from Mary-lou saw his parents and suddenly noticed the gaunt appearance of his father. However Mary-lou did not leave him time to dwell on it at the moment as she insisted on talking herself hoarse to him about her precious school and her aunt Joey. He tried to interrupt and ask why at 23 she was still calling the woman her aunt- but it was perhaps lucky that Mary-lou was bulldozing the conversation and not allowing him to get a word in edgeways.

Last edited by brie on Wed Jul 12, 2006 4:55 pm; edited 1 time in total

#98: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 4:51 pm
—
Now I understand why Ruey's not too keen on Madge!

Thanks Brie.

#99: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 5:07 pm
—
No wonder there's no love lost between Madge and Ruey!

#100: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 5:41 pm
—
Oooh...thank you Brie!

What a party that was indeed...poor Ruey, must have been awful for her.

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

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 5:50 pm
—
What a horrible situation - and when's David going to wake up and realise what his other is doing?

Poor Jem Crying or Very sad

Thanks Brie

ETA Changed name as got wrong one! Embarassed

Last edited by Lesley on Thu Jul 13, 2006 4:57 pm; edited 2 times in total

#102: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 8:31 pm
—
Thanks, Brie. I'm sorry that Madge is not being nice to Ruey.

#103: Author: MaryR, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 10:26 am
—
Complications all round. Crying or Very sad

Thanks, Brie.

#104: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 12:08 pm
—
Eeeek!

Only just found this Brie, but it looks fantastic. Please keep going.

#105: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 12:10 pm
—
Match-making for your children never works out. Madge ought to have more sense than to push David at OOAO, she's still not grown up.

#106: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 10:47 am
—
Robin came back outside to see madge still lazing outside with a dazed look on her face. "Madge", said Robin.
"Robin dear, I was just thinking why don't we go visit the Sonnalpe tomorrow?" Madge smiled at Robin, determined to enjoy her holiday, despite the pangs of guilt she was feeling. Mentally, she shook herself, what was she thinking? That girl Ruey would never be good enough for her son. She was unruly, and if her family- what was left of it- was anything to go by then she was actually probably crazy.

Robin, meanwhile was trying to decide whether to tell Madge that she had plans for tomorrow- and who they were with. Not realising that Ruey had given her an extremely watered down version of what had happened, she felt that this situation could be easily resolved...

"Well Madge, perhaps in the afternoon, I'm busy in the morning" here Robin paused, not sure how to go on. Madge raised her eyebrows, but thinking that Robin just meant she was going to chapel she nodded. "You see I'm meeting someone" Robin struggled on, but she realised she was getting nowhere so she trailed into silence.
"Who are you meeting robinette, is it another surprise?" Madge said- her mind going back to their meeting with gisela a few nights ago.
"Well its actually, ummm , its actually Ruey Richardson." Robin finally got the words off her tongue. Madge was silenced.

#107: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 11:05 am
—
Hoping David shows up soon - feel sorry for Ruey, hiding out there on her own.

#108: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 11:08 am
—
I hope Madge doesn't get the opportunity to be mean to Ruey again.

#109: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 2:53 pm
—
Poor Ruey. I hope Robin can help sort the situation out.

#110: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 3:42 pm
—
I wonder what Madge's version of events will be!

Thanks Brie

#111: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 8:01 pm
—
Madge looked Robin straight in th eye, and uttered one simple word. "why?" This floored robin who had not being expecting this. Robins silence gave Madge the push she needed, and her next words came out in a muddled flood.

"Why would you want to spend time with her, she's not family. She's nothing, she thinks shes so important, shes arrogant.. and she doesn't even have anything to be arrogant about. I mean look at her family, a crackpot of a father who didn't care enough about her to bother staying on this planet. She lived in a pigsty where she was trusted to look after her family- and she failed. Robin she failed. She couldn't even look after her pathetic attempt at a family yet she wants the right to look after my son?? How dare she steal him away form more deserving girls. Girls who have been well brought up. Girls who put others before themselves..." She could have gone on for a lot longer, and Robin who was standing with her mouth wide open would probably not have stopped her. But Madge had been silenced by a pair of steely brown eyes, very much like her own.

#112: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 8:10 pm
—
Thanks, Brie. I hope that Robin will put Madge in her place.

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

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 8:25 pm
—
Oh, is that David on the scene?

Think Robin has a better idea of what happened now.

Thanks brie

#114: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 8:37 pm
—
Ooooh...very interesting! Thanks Brie Very Happy

#115: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 9:01 pm
—
Gosh, Madge was downright nasty there!

#116: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 9:09 pm
—
Ooh, that was horrible of her! *Pokes Madge!*

#117: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 9:36 pm
—
david had been dreaming of her constantly, thinking about her constantly, and talking about her constantly to anyone foolish enough to listen. The climax to this had been when he had convinced himself he had seen Ruey in the street and had started chasing after her, he was, he reflected behaving shockingly, and the scared look in the girls eyes when he had stopped her had finally convinced him something had to be done. A short visit from his cousin and his wife had soon convinced him that he needed Ruey.

Rix had struggled with his key in the door, and had reached the grunting and swearing stage when the door was pulled open to reveal a bemused david. "Trying to lock us out now are you David?" was Ted's first words as she stumbled in out of the cold, " I don't understand English weather- i mean its July!"
"It must have been all those years spent in Switzerland", interjected Rix at this moment, knowing from experience that his wife could complain for hours. Ted glared at her husband, and David grinned it felt like being back at university. "So thats what married bliss is like?" he asked innocently.
"Some bliss", they both muttered simultaneously. David laughed, and soon they were sitting in his battered living room exchanging news. David could still hardly believe they were married, the idea of Rix wanting to be a one woman man, and the idea of Ted accepting Rixs proposal would once have made David laugh. "David, theres something wrong with you, don't think you can hide it from me!" Ted said ferociously. Rix put his arm round Teds shoulders, "Relax darling hes just mad at himself for letting Ruey go."
"Yes that was rather stupid of you, david. I never thought of you as a stupid man, but i suppose you are related to Rix.." whatever she was going to say next was cut off as she started giggling at Rixs mutinous glare. David, knowing that these two could bicker for Britain hurriedly decided to come out with it and agree with Ted. "I know" He said. Teds face immediately softened, but Rix had to try and be clever and said, "What? You think I'm stupid?", however he was quickly silenced by a swift kick from ted. "Well David",she said meaningfully,"I think you know what you need to do.." David looked at her blankly. "Go after her you goop!! And try and sort things out with your mother" ted stared at him, waiting for him to jump up and agree with her, but David just sat there. How could he have been so stupid? "She won't want me back" He stated. Ted rolled her eyes and thought to herself what would they do without her? "Well you have to go, you can't stay moping about here!", this form unromantic Rix jolted David into agreeing

Shortly after this he had found himself on a plane to Austria, to dazed to even think about what he was going to do when he arrived, or how he was going to find his darling Ruey, the love of his life.

I have been thinking about writing a drabble about Ruey and David, and their time at university? what do you think? I can't decide wether I can write about this part well enough...

#118: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 10:41 pm
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Nice to see Rix and Ted together. I wonder if David will find Ruey?

Do write about their time at university, Brie. I am enjoying this and would like to read more.

#119: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 11:04 pm
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Would love to see how Ruey and David got to know each other Very Happy

#120: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sat Jul 15, 2006 12:39 am
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Thanks, Brie. I would also like to see how Ruey and David met.

#121: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sat Jul 15, 2006 4:19 am
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Yes, it sounds good to me, too.

Thanks, Brie.

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

Posted: Sat Jul 15, 2006 5:25 am
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Definitely write about Rix and Ted if the Bunny's biting!

Thanks brie.

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

Posted: Sat Jul 15, 2006 11:53 am
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Surely David should be able to find Ruey easily enough seeing as he gave her address to Robin.
I'm really enjoying this drabble, I want to know how Joey died!

#124: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sat Jul 15, 2006 12:36 pm
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Ted, david reflected had always been the organiser- the brainy one. It had been her who had bought his plane ticket and booked his hotel room. Rix was obviously having a bad effect on her. Imagine booking him into the same hotel as his Mother. He narrowed his eyes, surely she hadn't done it on purpose? David reminded himself to strangle her the next time he saw her.

Madge was floored, why had she opened her mouth? It was she realised now a slight exaggeration perhaps, but she was right. She was a Mother she wanted the best for her children. A tiny voice in her head whispered that she had no right to interfere in his life after having ignored his prescence for all these years. She resolutely pushed that voice to the back of her head. She remained silent staring back into those eyes defiantly.

Robin, wanted the earth to swallow her up- to put it mildly. She was vaguely realising that there were wheels amongst wheels here, and it wasn't simply a case of david and Ruey loved each other, and were struggling to get Madge to see this. Then her eyes widened in horror as she saw Madge lose it. There was no other words for it, she just went mental. She had been under a lot of strain for a long time, and this last sight of her son had been too much for her. She just cracked up.

Sobs wracked through Madges body. These were punctuated with muttering and hair pulling. David looked away. What had his Mother become? A small wave of sympathy ran through him for the first time. Robin clutched madge to her and hurried her inside.

An hour later Madge was lying in bed alseep, the doctor was standing over her. For the first time in years Madge had agreed to be dosed and put to sleep. The doctor looked grave. Robin was worried, but trying to hide it. She was not succeeding. David was worried too, though he tried to pretend he didn't care, but he kept stealing glances at the suddenly frail woman lying down.

Swirls of guilt were flowing through Robin. This was all her fault. She had mentioned Ruey, she had mentioned David. She had not noticed how ill Madge was. The fact that she was the only member of the family who had really tried to help Madge did not occur to her, and if it had it would probably not have mattered. She had failed Joey, Joey with her gift of insight would have solved this problem easily. Joey would not have allowed this to become a problem Robin realised. She had failed her Joey, this thought repeated itself over and over and over in poor Robins head. David glancing at her realised something was wrong, more than just the casual worry he had expected. He wondered what had been going on while he had been in England.

#125: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Sat Jul 15, 2006 12:43 pm
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Things don't look too good for them. Thanks, Brie.

#126: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sat Jul 15, 2006 10:12 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I am wibbling about everyone involved.

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

Posted: Sat Jul 15, 2006 10:33 pm
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Poor Robin, and poor Madge - even if she is wrong about David and Ruey.

Love David's mental note to strangle Ted! Laughing

Thanks Brie.

#128: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 16, 2006 9:55 am
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Thank you Brie, however wrong Madge may have been, she's had to much to deal with recently that I'm not surprised she lost it.

#129: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jul 16, 2006 4:29 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I think Madge needs a good long rest, after all, if she thinks that OOAO is going to make a perfect daughter-in-law, she's probably delusional.

#130: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sun Jul 16, 2006 8:14 pm
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The doctor turned worried eyes onto the two other occupants of the room. A tall, dark haired solemn looking man, and a petite, beautiful woman with troubled eyes. David stared back into the doctors eyes, he had not been consulted, yet he was also a doctor. "She is suffering from stress and depression." said the doctor. David looked annoyed, talk about stating the obvious he thought. The doctor continued," I have phoned her normal doctor, and he has told me that she was taking mild anti-depressants for the strain she is under. He thinks they have reacted badly against her, her emotions have been a lot closer to the surface whenever she has not been taking them" David nodded slowly, it was not until Dads death, that Mum started acting really shockingly towards Ruey, before then she had just been disinterested in her, and hopeful that he would move on. " He thinks they have made her slightly delusional, she had been taking them for over a year, and now Dr Stafford has been trying to wean her off them slowly, this has obviously resulted in todays mental breakdown. Usually something unexpected triggers these breakdowns but not always." Here David and Robin exchanged guilty glances, both were feeling that it was their fault that Madge had collapsed. The doctor continued," All I can prescribe is complete bed rest for a week, Dr Stafford does not want her to continue taking the pills anymore as they are obviously affecting her badly, and her body is becoming addicted to them. Therefore she may be restless and struggle to sleep for the first few nights. You must,"he stressed these words,"You must make sure there is nothing or rather no one here who will bring her stress,"Here his eyes rested on David, but he was careful not to say anything," I would advise someone to stay with her at all times, the dose I gave her will wear off soon, I am not keen to dose her again so just try and keep her as quiet as possible. You know where to contact me if you need me."And with that he was gone. Leaving David and Robin alone. "I had better go", said David reluctantly,"i don't imagine waking up and finding me here, will de-stress Mum." He bent over the bed, and swiftly kissed his Mother before departing. Robin was left sitting in the room alone, apart form Madge. She felt that this was definetly a time for parayer.

Meanwhile, downstairs in the reception of the hotel David was writing urgent telegrams to his sisters asking them to come over. Seeing his Mother lying there, completely helpless had made hiom forget the way she had been acting this past year or two. For some reason his mind went back to that year, so long ago now, when his parents had been in Canada and he had not been allowed to join them. Swiflty he wrote another telegram, this one to his younger brothers,for no matter what anyone said schoolwork was not as important as seeing your parents. Perhaps they would excite her too much though? He hastily revised the telegram, putting them on "stand-by" rather than calling for them to come to Austria. His sisters however he wanted to come, it was not fair to leave everything to Auntie Rob. He wondered up to his room after this, for the first time in weeks his thoughts did not include Ruey.

#131: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Sun Jul 16, 2006 8:19 pm
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Oh dear, poor Madge. She's obviously been under a lot of strain.

Imagine a doctor who isn't too keen on doses! Laughing

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

Posted: Sun Jul 16, 2006 8:23 pm
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David is being extremely patient and gentle here. Hope Madge pulls through.

Thanks brie

#133: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 16, 2006 9:39 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I'm still wibbling about everyone involved.

#134: Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 12:53 pm
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Just found this Brie, it's excellent! V intrigued by all the family dynamics!

Would also love a Ruey and David at university story

#135: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 12:54 pm
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Madge is definitely in need of some care here, but David can't do it all, and neither can Robin. What does Madge really have against Ruey? As a Maynard ward, she ought to be perfectly acceptable.

#136: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 9:04 pm
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Two days had pased since Madge's collapse. Although she had briefly slept deeply and dreamlessly, this had not lasted. Yet, despite her strongest pleas she was still not allowed to get up. Now as she tossed and turned, her light sleep was fractured with memories she had tried so hard to forget.

Freudesheim. she was seeing Joey again, her adored little sister. Jo greeted her rapturously. They had not seen each other for so long

She tossed so violently, that she almost landed on the floor. Robin turned concerned eyes on Madge, but she appeared to still be asleep, so Robin went back to her knitting.

The salon, in front of the french windows, a view of the beautiful jungfrau could be seen. Jo looked troubled. She looked at Joey closely, worried for her. Jo told her, Ruey was her ward. How could she cause so much pain to Ruey. She disagreed, she was only doing what was best for them both. They weren't suited for each other. The two sisters argued, and pleaded with each other like they never had before. She stormed out, why was Joey so stubborn, couldn't she accept when she was wrong.

Silent tears rolled down Madges cheeks, she sat bolt upright in bed as the last, most painful memory came flooding back.

The cool, dry morning had washed away their argument, their hurtful remarks, she felt hope as she opened the gate to freudesheim. She opened the door. Cecil ran out. Len grabbed for her but missed. She tried to catch her but also missed. The car came round too fast. The screams would haunt her forever. Her baby sisters face. The dawning comprehension as Jo realised she had killed her child.

Madge held her ears, hoping lens screams would be drowned out. She burrowed her face in her blanket, hoping to block out Jo's face. She clutched her neck, rembering Jos death. No one had known she would do it, if anyone could cope with loss and guilt it would be Jo, she had helped so many others. One final memory returned to torture Madge.

Jo wanted to be alone, but she had crept in. Jo would need her. Her sisters body swinging. The noose round her neck. Jo had finally lost her appetite for life. Jos complete love for others, her devotion to everyone but herself had brought this, she had nothing left to live for, not now

#137: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 9:10 pm
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Oh dear, what an ending for Jo. But Madge mustn't be allowed to rule David's life for him.

#138: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 9:26 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I'm sorry that Madge has had to go through all that.

#139: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 9:33 pm
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Oh dear, what a horrible series of events Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 9:37 pm
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Poor Jo, Crying or Very sad

#141: Author: Lottie, Location: Humphrey's Corner

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 9:51 pm
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Goodness!!! Shocked

I certainly wasn't expecting that as the cause of Jo's sudden death. Poor Madge - she will find it very hard to live with the fact that she might have been in any way part of the cause of her sister's suicide. The problems she has accepting Ruey in David's life pale into insignificance. The trouble with suicide is that the people who are left behind spend the rest of their lives wondering what would have happened if they had acted differently at any time. You always feel thay you should have been able to prevent it, even if your logical brain, and everybody else around, tells you otherwise. I'm not surprised that she has collapsed, but I think she probably needs to talk to someone, not try to sleep and have lots of nightmares.

#142: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Tue Jul 18, 2006 5:20 am
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Shocked

I also never expected anything like that. Poor Jo. And Cecil dead too. Shocked

What a tragedy for the family to come to terms with.

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

Posted: Tue Jul 18, 2006 5:25 am
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What a terrible thing to happen - and can actually understand Joey's despair - can't be anything worse. Poor Madge though - to know that her sister died with the arguemwnt not resolved.

Thanks brie

#144: Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Tue Jul 18, 2006 11:15 am
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oh how awful!

#145: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 18, 2006 2:48 pm
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How awful for them all. Thanks brie

#146: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Wed Jul 19, 2006 9:54 am
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"Tante Marguerite!!" The shock of seeing Madge like this caused her to lapse into her old pet name for madge. Madge turned tearful eyes to Robin. "Its all my fault." Robin looked at her in confusion. "What is Madge?" She asked gently. Madge's face was white as she tried to reply. "Joey" was all she managed to squeeze out. She gripped her blanket tightly between her fingers. "I...I promised I would never tell." She hesitated. "Me and Jack, we decided it was for the best. No one must ever know. The children, don't you understand Robin, it was for the children." Robin had no idea what Madge was talking about, but she looked at her with sympathy. "You can tell me", she said encouragingly.
"The triplets know, they saw, you see but they don't know everything. Thats why Jack left. He couldn't bear to be there anymore. It destroyed him. It destroyed us.We couldn't let it destroy the whole family." Robin did not know how to deal with this, but she realised that Madge needed somone to be there for her, someone to talk to. "Its okay Madge, you can tell me." Madge turned wide haunted eyes onto Robin. " The triplets dont know everything you see. Only me and Jack.Me and Jack" She repeated their names softly. Robin didn't know what to do. What was Madge talking about? Was madge hallucinating or was this true? "I know who killed cecil" Madge finally announced. Robin had not been expecting that. Her dear namesake. She had never gotten to meet her own god child, that was one of Robins deepest regrets in life. "I can't tell you Robin it would break your heart, like it broke mine." Robin had a sense of foreboding, she realised she didnt want to know. For Joeys sake she told herself firmly. "Please tell me Madge. You need to tell someone. " Madge looked at Robin with deepest sorrow in her eyes, and shook her head slowly. Noone must know about how and why Joey died. Cecils death would remain a mystery, and Joey died naturally of heartbreak. Noone must know. She was protecting her family. Madge was resolute, it was not fair to tell Robin no matter how much Madge wanted to talk.

#147: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Wed Jul 19, 2006 10:00 am
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Oh poor Madge - what an awful secret to have.

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

Posted: Wed Jul 19, 2006 10:07 am
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Tell Madge - holding this inside will kill you. Robin is strong, she can take it.

Thanks brie.

#149: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Jul 19, 2006 12:22 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I hope that Madge will be able to talk to Robin.

#150: Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Wed Jul 19, 2006 12:24 pm
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You have to tell her Madge! Otherwise it will kill you too (possibly literally!)

#151: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 11:07 am
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Such an old-fashioned idea, but why has it turned her against Ruey?

#152: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 1:09 pm
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Madges haunted eyes followed Robin long after Madge had fallen into an exhausted sleep. Robin needed to get Madge to talk to somone, she was hurt that Madge wouldn't confide in her but she realised Madge was mistakenly trying to protect her. Robin had been protected all her life. She had been smothered in cotton wool, becoming a nun had been her only escape. She loved her family Jem, Madge and Joey. She knew how much they loved her, but she couldn't live the life they had had planned out for her. Her life as a nun was verty fulfilling she reminded herself... again. She looked anxiously at madge. Then there was a knock on the door. Robin cautiously went to open it. There were two girls standing there, she recognised them both. She looked at them greatfully. Adrienne Desmoinnes hugged Robin and Robin felt comfort and drew strength from her hug. Adrienne whispered, "You two need to talk, I will stay here." She looked wistfully at Robin before leaving the other two together. Robin took Ailie Russell's arm and walked her away from the room, she couldn't help but look worriedly back though. Ailie reassured her, "Adrienne is training to be a nurse, she will look after mum well." Calm, self-assured Ailie couldn't help but stumble on the last few words. She looked hopefully down at Robin. "Will she be okay?" Her auntie Rob (as all the Russell children called her) gave her a reassuring smile. "She wil be alright i am sure, trust in god my child." "Trust in god? I hate it when you people are always saying that, they said it at school as well whenever anything went wrong. I cant just trust in god, I need to know. What if god does nothing? What if he does not care? What if he does not exist? I cant lose another parent. I just can't! Dont you understand?" Robin didn't know what to say, " Ailie madg.. your mum will be alright. She is just depressed. She also lost your father, and your aunt, but I know she will not let you lose her. " Ailie gave Robin a watery smile. "Can I see her now then please?"

#153: Author: Eilidh, Location: North Lanarkshire

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 1:50 pm
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Thanks brie.

#154: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 5:01 pm
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Thanks, Brie. It was nice to see Robin comforting Ailie.

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

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 5:07 pm
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Poor Ailie - glad Robin is there for her.

Thanks brie

#156: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 5:38 pm
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Ruey sat in her dark living room, in her rather scabby armchair, with her arms folded tightly across her chest. Ruey had felt acceptance from Robin, and she had felt a bond between the two of them, yet where was Robin? they had been meant to meet up three days ago and what had happened, Robin had not even had the decency to call. Ruey bit her lip, she wanted to be mad but she couldnt help but be worried. Robin had seemed so nice- and well responsible. Ruey couldn't imagine her just forgettting, should she just go up to the hotel? just to check, afterall in some weird completely not by blood way they were related.

Not much more than an hour later Ruey arrived at the hotel. Slightly out of breath( but this was not unusual for Ruey) from her run to the hotel. She was just about to step inside when she saw him. surely it wasnt? how dare he come here and not even tell her? did he not want to see her? Ruey had never felt more hurt, she felt like there was a deep wound in her stomach and she coudn't breathe. she felt her face steaming up with hot, passionate tears. She had thought about him constantly. The hurt she was feeling refused to go away but now it was joined by anger. If he didn't want to see her then he wouldnt. it was as simple as that. She was walking away now, the tears flowing uncontrollably down her face. She heard running steps behind her. She felt herself spun round. She was in his arms. She tried to resist. It was hopeless. They embraced long and hard. She couldn't stop her tears flowing. She couldn't look into his eyes. She loved him so much. She hated him more.

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

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 5:52 pm
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Poor Ruey - hope David can explain all that's happened.

Thanks brie

#158: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 7:07 pm
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"Ruey" he could barely choke the word out. She didn't hear. How could he have forgotten her. The sympathy he had been feeling for his mother these last few days disapeared. He was going to lose Ruey again, and he hadn't even got her back yet! He ran after her. He was right behind her. He could smell her delicate scent. Her messy hair tossing in the wind. He couldnt help himself he reached out for her. He needed her. He pulled her to him. he held her. Not believing she was in his arms again. He felt her try to pull away, but he couldnt let her go. he felt her surrender. She leant against him. He couldn't look down at her.He couldn't look her in the eye. Not after all he had done. All he had made her suffer. She had gone through so much for him, yet he had let her go. He was so ashamed. he just held her tighter. He was not prepare to let her go this time. He heard her ragged breathing, and he heard her sobs. He bent down and lifted her face to look into his. He had meant to comfort her, but his longing was too much. His lips brushed hers. She pulled away. She shook her head at him. He felt his world fall apart. He couldn't lose her. He could never be parted from her. She was a part of him. His life was empty without her. He had to make her see this. he had too. He had no idea what to say yet he opened his mouth to speak. The words just fell out. "Ruey, will you marry me?"

#159: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 7:10 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I hope that Ruey will say yes.

#160: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 7:17 pm
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Poor Ruey; but I do hope she says yes, too!

Thanks brie.

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

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 7:53 pm
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Awwww, say yes, Ruey.

#162: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 7:59 pm
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Ailie had seen her mother, and after the initial shock of seeing her so white and wan had regained her usual cool composure. She had insisted on staying with her mother alone and letting Adrienne and Robin do some much needed catching up. Sadly the time Adrienne had been so looking forward to was not destined to happen at this moment in time. She took one look at Robin and sent her to bed. "You look as bad as tante Madge" she said severely, not allowing Robin to see how worried she felt. Robin was in no position to argue, and was soon sleeping soundly. Adrienne left Robin and wandered back to Ailie. She thought her friend might need the company. she had been old enough when her parents died to understand how terrifying it could be. She stopped outside the room intending to knock. However she hesitated when she heard voices. She looked guiltily around before putting her ear up against the door to try and hear who was speaking. Ailies loud tones were for once moderated, and Adrienne did not recognse the other even quieter voice. Since she didn't actually approve of eavesdropping, she left then reassuring herself that she hadnt been being nosy she was just trying to make sure her friend was alright. Since this was true her conscience rested and she walked downstairs to sit out in the sun until Robin woke up and came for her. She settled down and looked about interestedly she saw that there was a scattering of tourists and that was about all. She looked towards the lake wanting to see if it lived up to all the fabulous descriptions she had heard of it. It was indeed a vivid blue. Tante Joey had been right there. Adrienne smiled softly, though she was sensitive she had gotten over the shock of her guardians death and now remebered her fondly. Her greatest testament had been her funeral. The church was overflowing Adrienne remembered.

Adrienne slipped into the church, she had never seen a church so full. Despite Joeys connection to the school they had not been able to have it in one of the schools chapels. There had been too many people. It was as though every person Jo had met had been touched by her, and wanted to pay their final respects. The front rows were overspilling with family. Adrienne had been so gratified when Steven had asked her to sit with the family. She saw a beloved figure with her arms wrapped around another. They were both crying. She saw Jack white of face staring unseeingly at the two caskets- one big and one small. The entire school was sitting at the back The mistresses did not need to try and silence anyone so solemn were they all. And in the middle, were people she had never seen before, hundreds of them literally hundreds of them- old and young. All the doctors from the san were there. Towards the end of the service there was not a dry eye in the place. Adrienne with young phillipa in her lap, and Ailie Russell clinging to one hand, felt she had never had such red eyes. She saw Madge ascend the dais. She was supported by Con. Cons face was white and her eyes red but she had an air of calmness about her that would have startled people had their eyes not been on Madge. Madge was shaking despite Cons grip on her arm. She opened her mouth, "Joey will always be known as a butter-in. I think most people in the room could testify to that!" There were a few watery smiles and sympathetic glances as Madge struggled to carry on. "I dont think there are words to describe what Joey means to me. She never grew up, and I think that helped me stay young." Here there were a few nods of agreeement chiefly from the chalet staff, and a trio of women, obviously foreign, and not memebers of the family but who were sitted with the family nonetheless, they all had their arms linked as though to give each other strength. "She was my baby sister..." Con gave Madge a reassurign hug but it was clear Madge could not go on. Dick Bettany walked slowly up to his sister. He gripped her hand, and then spoke. "We agreed there would only be one speaker here today. Otherwise we would have been here for the next year. Everyone in this room has a story to tell, a way that Joey changed and brightened their lives. We have got to respect Joey and her cheerful butting-in ways and make sure we live our lives as well and as cheerfully as she did." Here Con decided to take a hand. Her voice shook as she spoke both from nerves and from grief. "Mama would have hated to see us here intears like this. As matey would say we must not grow up to be spineless jellyfish. Let us remember her fondly, not sadly. With a smile not with tears." As she turned to the casket she smiled through her tears. And though Jack got into so much trouble afterwards, everyone agreed that it was the right way to finish Joeys funeral. Jack Lambert stood up and in her position as head girl called out ,"Three cheers for Joey!" Adrienne heard instant cheering but not from the school as she expected but from the three women she later learnt were called Simone, Frieda and Marie. Everyone joined in after that, and though the noise was atrocious they were all smiling and laughing through their tears. Con standing at the front looked at them all beaming, "Mama would have loved this" and everyone there was forced to agree.

Im not sure about this bit, but it was so hard to write a funeral!!

#163: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 8:14 pm
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Crying or Very sad

That's just so sad.

Thanks Brie.

#164: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 9:19 pm
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Funerals are always difficult Crying or Very sad

#165: Author: Nic, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 9:38 pm
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im almost in tears reading that. it must have been so awful for poor jack. please write more, let ruey and david get together too!

#166: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2006 10:21 pm
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Thanks, Brie. That was so moving.

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

Posted: Fri Jul 21, 2006 5:14 am
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May have been hard to write but it was excellent - thank you brie. Crying or Very sad

#168: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Fri Jul 21, 2006 9:15 am
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aaarghhh im in a bad mood!! I have just realised (im not much of a planner you see) that this is to be one of three, but i have already started posting three!! grrrr so im going to have to stop adding posts to "Amys girl" till i have finished this young drabble and no. two. I know what I am going to write but its all in my silly little head so hopefully I wont forget anything... on a more evil note im wondering just how long to make you wait for Rueys answer Twisted Evil

Don't worry Im really a very nice person ( Shocked

) so i might just let you see it now...

Rueys body sank against David. Her tears soaking through his shirt. She felt his cold hand gently stroking her face, then her face was tilted to look into those beautiful dark bottomless eyes. She knew she was lost. He opened his mouth and she just wanted to reach up and kiss him, but she didnt she was still angry. Or was she? She couldn't take her eyes of those eyes. The most beautiful, deep, worried she realised, eyes ever. His deep powerful voice began to speak. She hadn't heard him right, all her longing wanted what she had heard to be true, her anger wanted it to be false, her anger was fading fast, she did not try to release herself from him she just wanted another few moments to dream that he wanted her back. "Ruey" the pain in his voice told her she might not have been dreaming. "Ruey i can't bear to lose you again. I have spent all this time thinking about you constantly, you were always there, you are a part of me I cant get rid off, that I dont want to get rid off. I cant lose you" She felt him hesitate, then he whispered the most beautiful words in her ears, "Ruhannah I love you more than anything in the world, will you marry me?" She turned to face him, this time staring fearlessly into those magnificent eyes, her mouth was dry, she tried to force the word she was longing to say out of her mouth but she couldn't. She reached up to his face instead and placed her lips on his. There they remained for almost an hour until they came to some sort of senses, and headed back towards the hotel ready to break the glad news to anyone willing to listen.

#169: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Fri Jul 21, 2006 10:02 am
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Hope Madge doesn't spoil things by not being pleased!

#170: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Fri Jul 21, 2006 10:42 am
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Ailie Russell was sitting watching her sleeping mother when Madge stirred. She opened her eyes widely, and then scrubbed at them to make sure she was seeing correctly, "Ailie?" Ailie hurried forward and hugged her mother. "Mum im so worried about you, please get better soon." Madge looked at Ailie and saw the genuine worry in her eyes. Was she really doing the right thing? She knew that the dark secrets she held locked up were destroying her, she didn't think her children and her nephews and nieces and everyone who had looked up to Joey could handle the truth, even her wards had been truly devestated by her death. Her wards, why did she hate Ruey so much? "Ailie can I ask you something?" Madge asked tentatively. "Anything, mum, anything at all." "Do you like Ruey?" Ailie was flabbergasted, then she remembered her brothers hurt when her mother had refused to accept Rueys existence over the "superior" Mary-Lou, she resolved to try and fix things for her older brother. "Yes, mum," she said carefully, " I really do, she was so kind to me , when I was so nervous about D..Dad she really took me under her wing. When you were busy ignoring her" here ahe tried to stop the accusing tone from slipping in, "She spent a lot of time with me, she really helped me with kind words and letters, I dont know how I would have managed through Dads illness without her." Madges face was lined with sorrow, "He has gone to a betterplace, darling" "Yes Ruey helped me see that, that it was only kind to end his suffering..." Ailie hugged her mother fiercely, and said into Madges long curly hair, "Mother dont leave, please get better, I cant lose you," The tears sprung up in Madges eyes, " You wont lose me Ailie, I wont let myself be taken from you. Im a fighter- like you." She sat and hugged Ailie for a while, " Ailie there are some things I need to do, and get off my chest if Im going to get better for you. " Ailie looked at her expectantly. She had not seen her Mothers eyes this bright and determined in a long time. "Ailie will you please get Robin to come to me soon" she hesitated, but then her determined air returned she had to become a mother to her children again, she looked at Ailie her hair short, and her face tear stained but most definetly Madge realised an adult. Her children were all adults now, even her twins were growing up, and it was time she did too, she had to realise that they could all make their own decisions and did not need her approval first. "Ailie will you please ring up Ruey and ask her to come and see me please?"

#171: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Jul 21, 2006 11:30 am
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Thanks, Brie.

#172: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Fri Jul 21, 2006 2:19 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I wonder what Madge will say to Ruey. I'm glad Ruey and David have worked things out.

#173: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri Jul 21, 2006 2:20 pm
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I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Madge is going to be nice.

Thanks Brie.

#174: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jul 21, 2006 4:04 pm
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Thank you Brie, I've really enjoyed catching up with this. I hope Madge realises what a nice girl Ruey is

#175: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Fri Jul 21, 2006 9:55 pm
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Madge was alone. Ailie was foolishly trying to get through to Ruey on the phone, and robin still lay asleep in her room. Adrienne was lying outside sunning herself and watching with startled eyes as Ruey Richardson alternately kissed, hugged and yelled at David Russell. she raised her eyebrows at this interseting sight. However her head was hidden under the big shady hat she wore.

One of the maids timidly knocked on madges door. "Come in" came a sweet if tired voice. The young girl hastily came in and said in broken english, "These letters, are for you, mein Frau". Madge accepted them with a smile and thankyou, and the nervous maid tripped out of the room. Madge looked at the letters. There were a few from the platz and two from innsbruck. She decided to open the Innsbruck ones first. She slit the first one open to reveal a little card with pretty sprays of flowers on it. Inside it read Dear Madge,
I hope you feel better soon, so we can meet up again, missing you,
Gisela and Gottfried
She smiled once she had read it, how sweet she thought. She opened the second one which was along the same lines except it was form Natalie and her husband Karl.
The letter from the platz she opened smilingly, expecting more of the same, not realising that apart from her children no one knew of her illness. It was not until later that Madge learnt that Gisela had phoned the hotel to arrange to meet them again and that was how she had found out about Madges collapse. Everything had been so frantic that Robin had never got the chance to tell their many relatives about madges illness. So she opened the letter innocently.

Dear Lady Russell,
Perhaps you are wondering why I am addressing you so formally? Sadly it is because this is a formal letter, that is very distressing for me to have to write to such a dear friend. As you know you are the majority share holder in the Chalet School Company, especially since you inherited Mrs Maynards. It is very hard for me to write this to you so I feel it is easier and more professional to keep this letter to a formal basis. I have been speaking with the lawyers, and I am afraid that this business is no longer viable. We cannot keep it afloat, although the Glendower House branch is flourishing as is the St Mildreds finishing Branch. The Gornetz Platz branch of the school is struggling to bring in pupils and the cost of keeping the school open in such an expensive area is just draining all our resources I am afraid. If we are to be able to pay the staff a decent severance pay, that is all we will be able to do before the school is forced to close. From the profits of the other two schools we may be able to pay the expectant parents something for the inconvenience we have caused them. although Glendower House and St Mildreds are still going strong they were always the smaller less profitable schools, paid for easily by the Gornetz Platz. I worry in case you are not able to keep these two open for long either. Although for myself it does not matter, I am as of now newly retired, but for your sake and for your future, and your nieces and nephews futures, i advise you to try and find yourself an income, as your money from shares will no longer be forthcoming. Please contact our lawyer- Mr S. T. Green.
Regards,
Hilda Annersley
P.S. I found out only this morning about the situation, and felt it my duty to warn you before you must meet with the lawyers.

#176: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 22, 2006 12:10 am
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That's probably the last thing that Madge needs to hear now Sad

Thanks Brie

#177: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Jul 22, 2006 11:45 am
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Thanks, Brie. I wonder what this will do to Madge?

#178: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sat Jul 22, 2006 12:17 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I'm sorry that the school is going to need to close.

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

Posted: Sat Jul 22, 2006 12:51 pm
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Oh dear - it had been going so well - Ruey and David together, Madge seeming to become stronger and looking to accept Ruey. Now this Crying or Very sad

Very interested in what's going to happen.

Thanks brie

#180: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sat Jul 22, 2006 5:21 pm
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Madge dropped the letter with an exclamation, for years she had not taken more than a financial interest in the school she started, and this past couple of years not even that. She loked drearily at the letter, how was she supposed to support her children still at school and college.. and all the maynard children who whilst being looked after amongst themselves, were under her financial care. Not for the first time did she wish that she had listened to her staffs opinions on the wiseness of moving to switzerland. She had been right for the first few years but the price of living had rose and rose, and school profits had gone down and down. she thought that hopefully glendower House would be able to remain open, but about the Millies she was doubtful- it was not a conventional finishing school, and school fees could not rise much higher, whereas the cost of living could and would. She wished once again that life was simple, and she closed her eyes at the thought of having one more secret to keep.

Then her lips formed a straight, resolute line. The days for blaming others, and letting others lead her were over. She had to take charge of her own life. So many people, she realised, depended on her and needed her. She was not going to let herself fade away without a fight. she narrowed her eyes- the Madge Bettany of old was back!

#181: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sat Jul 22, 2006 5:37 pm
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I'm glad she's not going to be a spineless jellyfish, but it's not going to be easy for Madge, is it. Thanks Brie.

#182: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sun Jul 23, 2006 10:52 am
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She didn't want to burden Robin with her problems. Then she closed her eyes, Robin was a mature young woman, she could cope. she was strong Madge was forced to admit, not the delicate specimen Madge remembered. She could cope, couldn't she?
Then everyhting happened at once. There was a knock on the door. Outside the dor was clustered the entire assembly of her family here in tirol. Adrienne had arrived first with an arm through the still sleepy Robin. Robin had wanted to be reassured about Madge before they went for a walk together. Ailie came just moments later, with Ruey and David trailing after her- all three looked nervous. David gripped Rueys arm tightly, he had wanted to run away, and leave telling everyone till a later date. Ruey refused to let them act like cowards though inwardly she was dreading it- what if david left her again? The five of them clustered around the door waiting to be let in.

#183: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 23, 2006 11:02 am
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Thanks Brie, I look forward to seeing what happens next!

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

Posted: Sun Jul 23, 2006 11:57 am
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Hope that Madge can settle things - she's going to need them.

Thanks Brie.

#185: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 23, 2006 12:28 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I wonder how things will go between Madge and David and Ruey.

#186: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jul 23, 2006 2:09 pm
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It's about time Madge got a grip on herself and everything else.

#187: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sun Jul 23, 2006 6:27 pm
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Madge was only human afterall. When the door opened to reveal them all she didn't smile, she just gritted her teeth and determined to get on with it. They all filed in hesitantly.

Adrienne, with her big shady hat and coloured glasses, and her curly hair tumbling about her. Robin, small, petite, with bags under her eyes but with a hint of that angelic smile, and the dimples she had always had. Ailie Russell, slim with those twinkling eyes and short messy hair that always stood on end. David Russell, tall dark and handsome his fingers intertwined with Rueys, who was plain with brown hair hanging down past her shoulders and all mussed up by the wind, her nose lightly sprinkled with freckles, and a nervous but rebellious look in her eyes.

Madges mouth felt dry, how could she admit that she had failed them all. She had tried to protect them, she was still trying to protect them. She looked at them all closely. Years ago, when she had still taught she had been a good judge of character, she was a bit rusty but she tried to measure them all up.

She opened her mouth. Adrienne merely looked curious, though she knew more than people guessed. just because she was pretty people were apt to forget she had a brain. The rest looked nervous. Ailie was worried for her mother, Robin had a bad sense of foreboding, and Ruey and David were nervous for each other and their fragile, freshly renewed relationship. Madge was the most nervous of them all, not about admitting her faults which would be hard, but she had realised that this strange group of people were capable of looking after themselves, and deserved to do so. She was about to turn their lives upside down.

"I need to tell you all something. This is not me making excuses for my behaviour but trying to explain it. I feel you have a right to know, but i need you to realise that you will be the only people who know about this apart form me. This secret is destroying me, but i would have taken it to the grave, had it not been for Robin, trying to make me explain. None of you want to know this secret. Trust me, i will be more than happy not to tell you, for i cant watch it do to you what it is doing to me. I have come to realise that you are all capable of making your own decisions, so i will tell you if you really want to know." Madge suddenly closed her eyes and lay down, she was already regretting what she had just said, she could not let her children be weighed down in life like she was. The tears streamed silently down her cheeks as she remembered blindly cutting the rope down herself keeping everyone away till jack came, lying Joey in bed as though it had been natural. Only jack knew, they had let no other doctor see her, everyone thought she had died naturally of grief. She had done so much to protect them, she couldn't stop now. As the memories, as clear as photographs circled through her head she didn't know what to do apart from grieve.

#188: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 23, 2006 9:51 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I wonder how they will respond.

#189: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Mon Jul 24, 2006 5:55 pm
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Adrienne opened her eyes wide. Was there something she didn't know? or was the stress really telling on her Aunt Madges brain? Robin was alert was Madge finally going to tell her what she was so worried about? David Russell cleared his throat. "Mum you know?" Madges painstricken eyes looked at David, "You know?" she asked rather hopelessly. Ailies eyes were bulging, she hated being the youngest why was she never told anything? Madge whispered, " Joey and Cecil?", David nodded, a stricken look on his face. He felt a flow of hatred for his uncle jack at that moment, how could he have told Mum, how could he have done this to her?, "How do you know?" he asked. "I was there." was the terrible reply. David sat down suddenly. The look of compassion he gave his mother was genuine. He couldn't even imagine being there, being told had been bad enough. Her voice was now a monotone as though she was totally devoid of emotion, "It was me who opened the door when Cecil ran out. Dont you see? It is all my fault. And it was me that found Joey..."

#190: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 24, 2006 6:01 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I am still feeling sorry for everyone involved.

#191: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jul 24, 2006 8:18 pm
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Thanks, Brie.

#192: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Tue Jul 25, 2006 9:53 am
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David couldn't believe that his mother had been through all this alone. All to protect them. His mother might not always make the right decisions for him, but now he knew just how much his mother loved them all. It was a relief to know that she did. He hadn't been able to get through their deaths without being able to talk to someone he just hadn't been able to. First he had talked to Uncle jack, and then later he had confided in Ruey. he had to admit he agreed with his mother to a point, there was no need to tell the maynards or not the younger ones at any rate, perhaps the triplets, and steve and chas? it was so hard to know what to do.

They knew now, Madge had told them her terrible story, and they had all appeared strong for her. They were all adament it was not her fault. Though she had not expected it she felt better now she had released her story. But afterwards she was only really fit for a long sleep. The others had all retired along to the room Ailie and Adrienne were sharing.

Adrienne put her arms comfortingly round Robins shoulders. Robin she realised probably felt it most of all. david and Ruey had known before although she knew that the fact that madge had discovered the body, and taken it down had disturbed David deeply. ailie was lying curled up on top of her bed. She needed time alone. Adrienne wanted to help her but she didn't know what to do. Anyways she had to look after Robin, she was shaking slightly, and she had not uttered a word since she had heard the news. Her whole world must have been turned upside down Adrienne realised.

Robin was slightly disturbed by the religious aspect, was Joey a bad person for taking her own life? She had commited a grievous sin, was she safe in heaven? Had it been the right thing to do? Robin had not seen Jo in a long time but she knew that she couldn't have lived with herself after killing her own precious child. Robin hated to admit it but her own faith in God was faltering, it had been faltering all of this holiday she now realised, but now it had tumbled and fallen. She couldn't feel love or respect for a God that could have done this. For the first time Robin understood Ailies outburst earlier about trusting in God, how could one trust God, when he might do so much wrong with his power. Poor, poor Joey she thought to herself.

Ruey looked at the desolate people group surrounding her, she was not a selfish soul, but this was not the engagement day she had envisioned. Not that anyone knew they were engaged, they could hardly break the news and get out the champagne after everyone had heard that. also she knew something that no one else knew, perhaps she thought wryly Madge didn't want to break to much bad news in one stint. The fact that they were in financial ruin was, she reflected, rather minor compared to my sister murdered her own child and then commited suicide. She had nothing but sympathy for Madge now, but she had also realised that she did not belong in the way she had always hoped she did, she was not a member of this family. Somehow she felt so apart from the other grieving people in this room.

#193: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue Jul 25, 2006 11:02 am
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Thanks, Brie. It was moving to see peoples' thoughts.

#194: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Tue Jul 25, 2006 3:44 pm
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Almost finished!! yay!!

Ruey had ended up spending the week at the hotel with the rest of them, the hotel had been busy as it was the middle of the tourist season. She had shared Davids room (with David sleeping on the floor of course).

"David you know that christmas wedding we discussed?"

"Of course i do, how could i forget?"
David looked worried though, surely ruey wasn't getting cold feet already.

"No of course not" Rueys voice was small, " Its just what if thats not soon enough?"

"Ruey what do you mean?" David looked puzzled.

Rueys cheeks were surprisingly red, "You know, you are the doctor after all" she said meaningfully.

"i mean i might not be, but what if i am? We would have to have the wedding early, I don't think your mum could take it otherwise. I mean i'm surprised at how well she took us being together and all.."

"Are you...pregnant?" he said eventually

"Well, i don't think so, but i might be and then what would we do?"

"we will cross that hurdle when we get to it." he didn't seem overly worried.

"How come this is not bothering you?"

'Ruey, its not bothering me because whether we are married or not, I would be very happy for us to have children."

Ruey just about fainted, since when had David been this mature? aloud she said, " Do you mean that?"

she didn't seem much reassured though. "what else is bothering you?"
she almost smiled, he had always had an uncanny ability to read her.

"It's just I know why Madge isn't getting much better, theres one more problem, and its big, and its going to affect everyone. "

Ruey was still not overly fond of her future mother in law. She knew that david had forgiven madge completely, but whilst Ruey was sympathetic towards Madge she was still wary of her.

david looked at her anxiously, though she tried to hide it from him, he knew she still didn't trust his mother. He didn't blame her, but nonetheless he couldn't help but wish she could forgive and forget.

"i saw a letter, i didn't mean to read it, its just that a line caught my eye, and once i'd seen that I was hooked. I know i shouldn't have read it but i did." She looked troubled.

"Well, what did it say?" he asked abruptly.

"madge is going to be penniless." was the short, straight answer he got.

Not for the first time, David wished Ruey would learn to soften the blow. He sat down heavily. This was not good.

#195: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue Jul 25, 2006 5:07 pm
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Thanks, Brie. I wonder what David is going to do.

#196: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Jul 25, 2006 6:19 pm
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What about the two Sans that Jem owned, there'll be money from them, surely?

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

Posted: Tue Jul 25, 2006 6:20 pm
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Thanks brie - so many threads here.

#198: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Wed Jul 26, 2006 11:43 am
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As these things tend to do, it was not long before all of the family knew that the schools were to close.

"Ruey, listen to this" David asked of his fiance, "Its a letter about that awful Mr Green!"

'that awful Mr green' had been their lawyer, and they had all learnt that he was not quite of the quality they needed.

"oh no!" said Ruey despondently, "What now?"

"You might well ask! Mums going to be crushed"

"Oh David, get to the point will you, you will insist in talking yourself hoarse before you even get to anything of any use"

"What just because im not as blunt as you?"

"Im not blunt" said Ruey, though she knew fine well that she was very much so.

David gave her a look, "fine you want the core of it, then you can have it- no cottonwool attached"

Ruey grinned. "Good thats all i want my dear"

"The schools in a much worse state than mr Green lead us to believe. There are massive debts, and no savings. It appears Mr Green squandered as much of the school earnings as he could get his hands on, and then to crown it all he somehow managed to make away with all the emergency savings!"

Ruey let out a gasp. "I thought he was just a bad lawyer, I didn't realise he was crooked."

"I think you will find all lawyers are a bit crooked" said David cynically.

"But what are we going to do?"

"Theres not really a big choice is there. we'll have to sell the welsh san. we can't touch the Swiss one, thats in uncle Jacks name, and god knows where he is."

"But the sans your inheritance David are you really willing to sell it?"

"i don't have much of a choice do i?"

"Will there be any money left?"

"Not much, im sorry Ru, I shan't really have any money of my own now. I undertand if you don't want to marry me. I.. I'll be carrying a lot of the family, i dont suppose there will be much money around."

He looked at Ruey doubtfully. He need not have woried however. Ruey flung her arms around his neck.

"Your not getting rid of me that easily David Russell!"

He smiled and kissed the top of her head.

"Once the staff at the san and the school are both payed a decent sum, i dont expect there will be much left, especially as the school is now in debt. We'll definetly have to close St Mildreds too, perhaps we can get a decent sum for the building. Luckily when Dad died he left the others a sum of money, and though i dont knpw what sybs, and jo have done with theres i know ailie, kevin and kester haven't spent theirs yet. That will get them through school and university."

Ruey wanted to asked about the plentiful amount of Maynards, but she didn't dare.

"Aunt Joey left money for all her kids, but when you spread it between 10 and then the six wards, it doesn't leave a lot. "

He unwittingly answered her question.

"Me and Roger and Roddy don't need anything, David. Me and Roger put roddy through his first years at College, and though i don't have a job right now Roger can afford to put Roddy through his last year. I got a letter from Con this morning saying her journalism is paying off and she will pay for Mike to finish his training, except Mike isn't to know. She doesn't think Mike would accept her money."

David nodded, Con was right of course.

"Also, Len may have her own family now, and she may no longer have a job, she taught at the school remember, "She added at Davids blank look, "But Reg is still working and they have always had more money than they need, they are going to pay for Chas's next year of his medical training and by that time hopefully he will have scared up enough, or we will have found some money to put him through his next year. "

David nodded again. that just left the kids, though how they were going to pay to get them through school he didn't know. He felt like he couldn't abandon his mother, and he knew Madge wouldn't abandon the Maynard kids, she was their legal guardian now that Jack had left.

"Wait, he said, "What about Adrienne?"

"Don't worry about her. Robins payed her through her nurse training so far, i doubt wether she'll stop now."

#199: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Wed Jul 26, 2006 12:34 pm
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Goodness! Such a lot has happened since I was last on line. Thanks, Brie.

#200: Author: brie, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Wed Jul 26, 2006 2:57 pm