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Stories & Imaginings >> Cookies & Drabbles >> Tensions ~ Part Seven
(Message started by: Vikki on Jan 5th, 2004, 3:50am)

Title: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 5th, 2004, 3:50am
Archived for length

Part 1 http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/TENSIO~1[1].DOC 

Part two http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/tension2.htm

Part three http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/tensionagain.htm

Part 4 http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/Tensions4.htm

Part 5 http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/tensions5.html

Part 6 http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/tensions6.html


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Jennie on Jan 5th, 2004, 9:07am
More overtime, Vikki? It looks as if you're archiving every thread that I want to read.

;D

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 5th, 2004, 9:52am
Jennie - there was only a little snippet added to the story - the rest was yibbling, I'll post that little bit again now:

Neither Reg’s training as a doctor, nor his finer instincts had completely deserted him, and as soon as was able to lift his feet and drag himself away from the spot of tarmac to which he had been glued with horror, he approached the edge of the road, with some trepidation.  The scars left in the muddy verge by the car’s tyres told him where to look, but didn’t prepare him for height of the road.  Looking down from this distance, the wrecked car looked little more than a handful of scrap metal.  He felt overcome by a wave of giddy nausea, and instinctively leaned forward to rid himself of the sickness, teetering on the edge of the cliff. 


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Jennie on Jan 5th, 2004, 12:02pm
Huh! Typical of Reg, too p****d to do anything useful.

Is there more to come today, Esmeralda?


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Ally on Jan 5th, 2004, 12:13pm
*Joins in the chanting*

Push him off
Push him off
Push him off

;D ;D ;D


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 5th, 2004, 12:18pm
I was going to add this to the last part as it's another short bit, but as you got there before me.........

Somehow, he pulled himself back from the brink, a manoeuvre which left him sprawled along the side of the road, half in the mud.  He cared little for that though, being only too aware that he had had not one, but two near miraculous escapes from death.  He was not aware that he had also escaped justice - Klinsmann had neglected to radio the results of his mornings work back to the police headquarters; the evidence of Reg’s guilt had been kept in his head, the few brief notes he had made, and the photograph, resided still in his pocket, now rendered unreadable by the copious amounts of blood which flowed from his fatal injuries.
In the upset that followed the detectives death, the theft of a few antibiotics was easily overlooked for a few days, and this gave Reg precious time in which to leave the area completely.
Although he would be told, in the future, neither at that moment, nor for the rest of his life did Reg remember exactly what it was he had done, what he was running from.  He had only the vaguest awareness that he had done something, something  terrible, something unforgivable;  His fear of coming face to face with his own actions was almost as powerful motivating force as his desire to escape retribution.
Knowing there was nothing he could do for the driver of the car , he dragged himself away from the roadside and continued, unsteadily, his walk to freedom.


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 5th, 2004, 2:17pm
Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!

Esmeralda!!! You were meant to push him off the cliff!!! >:( >:( >:(

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Ally on Jan 5th, 2004, 2:52pm
Praps he'll fall off another cliff in his runing away

*hopeful*


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by LauraT on Jan 5th, 2004, 3:00pm

on 01/05/04 at 12:18:14, Esmeralda wrote:
.
Although he would be told, in the future, neither at that moment, nor for the rest of his life did Reg remember exactly what it was he had done, what he was running from.  He had only the vaguest awareness that he had done something, something  terrible, something unforgivable; 

Several observations....Everything he's done is unforgivable!! (or is that only on the drabbles!  ::) )
And what do you mean the rest of his life?! Surely someone will come and throw him off the precipice now!  :'(


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 5th, 2004, 3:02pm
Ooooooooooooooooh!!

Good idea!!
*crosses fingers*

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lesley on Jan 5th, 2004, 6:20pm
Was it the attack on Con that was unforgiveable? Or have I missed something!

Esmeralda this is as gripping as always - more please!


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Jennie on Jan 5th, 2004, 8:11pm
Where's Xanthe whe we need her? If she bounced us into this drabble, WE could push him off the precipice.

Form an orderly queue behind me, no pushing there! Behind me, I said!


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 5th, 2004, 8:36pm
I'm sorry - but I need Reg ALIVE,  you'll see why in a few months time.

And Lesley, yes it was the attack on Con, but he doesn't remember doing it - I think he's got a vague idea that he  smothered someone, but that isn't a memory which he's prepared to examine, yet.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Ally on Jan 5th, 2004, 8:47pm
[quote author=Esmeralda link=board=drabbles;num=1073274637;start=0#12 date=01/05/04 at 20:36:45]I'm sorry - but I need Reg ALIVE,  you'll see why in a few months time.quote]

Poor you!  There is no end in sight then?

*Is this the longest running drabble ever?*


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Jennie on Jan 5th, 2004, 8:51pm
A few months? Don't you mean a few weeks, or a few days, or even better, a few hours?

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 5th, 2004, 8:52pm
*Screams loudly at the thought of still writing this in a few months time!

Actually I meant CS months, not real ones, although the way I've been going lately it might turn out to be the same thing - although I certainly hope not.  I would think that everybody, including me, would have run out of patience with this story long before then.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Carolyn P on Jan 5th, 2004, 9:33pm
We'd never loose patience whilst you were posting.

How long is this now?


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 5th, 2004, 11:40pm
*pats Esmeralda comfortingly on the shoulder*

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 6th, 2004, 12:04am
Carolyn - this is now 87481 words, or will be once I've posted the next part.  I think, that with two full length drabbles, and the Advent stories, you must have written at least twice as much in the same length of time - and Rachel wrote this much in eight days :'( (Sobs)

I really will try and get it finished soon....

Con saw the door opening and looked up expecting to see one of the nurses coming to check on her, and hoping, somewhat irrationally, that it was her fiance coming to visit her.  She had, she thought, asked her father not to tell Andrew she was ill, some hours, or maybe even days ago, and he hadn’t been mentioned since.  ‘Why?’ she wondered, ‘Did her parents always have to respect her wishes, didn’t they understand that he was the one person who could provide her with the solid lump of comfort she needed?’
Seeing her mother standing in the doorway, Con closed her eyes quickly, feigning sleep, but not quickly enough.
Joey came over to the bed and sat in the small chair, taking Con’s hand in her own, “My poor little lamb, never mind, Mamma’s here now, and I shall stay with you till you’re better.  I’ve asked the nurse to fix up a small camp bed so I can stay with you all night, or several nights if need be.”
Con managed not to groan out loud, but she couldn’t prevent a small involuntary shudder, which Jo misinterpreted as an effect of the withdrawal.  She patted Con’s hand sympathetically. 
“But you can’t stay, mamma, who will look after Gwynnie?”
“What? Oh you mean Mary.  I think it’s high time that you three had a sibling named in your honour, and it’s remarkably easy to change a child’s name these days you know.”
Con subsided in bewilderment, thinking that there must be some logic in Joey’s airy statement, if only her mind was not so confused as to be incapable of working it out. 
It was obvious, from the way in which Joey had brushed her query aside, that she was not going to change her mind, and Con began to think that it might not be such a bad thing.  Her father had promised he would look after her, he would make sure that nothing happened to her.  He had also promised to send Joey home.  Obviously she could expect no support from that quarter save empty promises, she mused bitterly.
Joey continued to make soothing noises, but Con soon stopped listening, focusing all her powers of concentration into not giving in to the sudden spasms of pain, into not frightening her mother. 
 

Oh - that's 1999 - is it too late at night to have a party?


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Abi on Jan 6th, 2004, 12:13am
woohoo, thank you Esmeralda! Poor Con :o

Of course it's not too late for a party!! *lets off party poppers*


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 6th, 2004, 12:22am
Why doesn't Con just tell Jo to get out, like she did to Jack?

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 6th, 2004, 12:34am
'Coz she doesn't want to upset her!  She might faint or something.....

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 6th, 2004, 12:36am
Oh, yah-boo-sucks to that!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 6th, 2004, 1:28am
Do you really think Joey would listen, KB?

 

Con finally plucked up courage to tell Joey to go away.
Joey's jaw dropped open with astonishment, then she realised that Con was not being rational at that moment.  "I know you don't mean that, Con, you can't think straight at the moment can you?  But don't worry, I won't take any notice, I'll stay here until you do feel better.....etc"


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 6th, 2004, 1:32am
*suggests either violence of the type in certain other stories, or else being sick all over her*

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 6th, 2004, 1:56am
Con reached for her glass of water, slying adding half the contents of salt cellar she had concealed earlier - she took a deep breath and gulped down the liquid.  Seconds later it had the desired effect, and she was violently sick, all over her mother.

Joey, however, hadn't brought up twelve children without succumbing to this sort of accident before, and she carefully mopped hreself up with Con's flannel, while making a mental note to ask Jem to bring her a change of clothing. 
Anna would soon pick out something suitable.....

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 6th, 2004, 1:59am
*sigh* Oh, all right, just bring Jack back in and have him throw Jo out again!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 6th, 2004, 2:30am
*grin*

I like that idea!!! ;D

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 6th, 2004, 2:36am
*hopes Esmeralda will consider it*

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Ally on Jan 6th, 2004, 11:08am
Poor Con, some one just send for her fiance, please!!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Jennie on Jan 6th, 2004, 4:58pm
This is just typical of Joey. Why can't she see that Con has begun to outgrow her? Esmeralda, send for Andrew immediately, if not sooner.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 6th, 2004, 6:04pm
*starts new chant of "Andrew, Andrew, Andrew"*

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Abi on Jan 6th, 2004, 10:52pm
*continues chant, varying it slightly*

Andrew Andrew more please more please Andrew Andrew more please more please (ad infinitum)


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Nicolette on Jan 6th, 2004, 11:59pm
Oh poor Con. Please Esmeralda, get rid of that dratted woman. 

*suddenly feels bad cuz she knows Joey means well*  :-/

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 7th, 2004, 12:35am
*hopes Esmeralda appreciates our chanting*

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 7th, 2004, 1:21am
Well - I can't supply Andrew at the moment, I've got to get this conversation between Jack & Jem out of the way, and it isn't really going that well, but hopefully it should be finished by tomorrow, then I'll be able to leave Jack alone for a while.

And yes, Joey does mean well, it's just as Jennie say's, she doesn't realise that Con has grown up so much and she is indeed beginning to outgrow her.

There was silence in the office after Phil had made his dramatic exit.  Jem, for once, was lost for words.  Jack Maynard had been both his friend and his protégé for many years,  and thanks partly to Jem ensuring that he spent a great deal of time in the Russell family home, or so he fondly imagined, his brother-in-law for almost as long.  Yet it was in neither mans nature, especially Jem’s, to discuss the deeper things in life, and their lengthy friendship had flourished on their shared interests rather than on an exchange of confidences.
Trusting that actions would at least speak as loudly as words, Jem removed his hip flask from his pocket and thrust it t Jack gruffly, “Here, have a snifter of this, might bring some colour back into your face, eh?”
Jack unscrewed the lid and sniffed the contents suspiciously before taking a long sip of the excellent brandy. He felt the warming effects of the alcohol as it passed down his throat, and he felt the knot in his stomach begin to unravel slowly, but he was too well aware of the illusory effects of alcohol to know that it would not prove to be anything other than a false friend.  He carefully screwed the top on and passed the flask back to Jem.
“Keep it, old man, you need it more than me.”  Jem protested.
Jack shook his head, “It’s not the answer, Reg Entwhistle is living proof of that.”
Jem gratefully seized upon the opening to a conversation, “Yes, quite a shock that.  It’s certainly not what I would have expected from young Entwhistle, obviously young Len has more sense than I gave her credit for, I just thought she’d got her head filled with all sorts of fancy ideas.  I never could understand why you didn’t put your foot down when she wanted to call that engagement off.  Obviously it makes sense now.”
Despite everything, Jack could not prevent himself from taking issue with Jem’s final statement, “For God’s sake man, I’m hardly going to force my daughter into an unhappy marriage, am I?  And if you think that’s the right way to carry on, then I feel damned sorry for your girls, especially Sybil, I never could see why you wouldn’t let her take that course of hers.”
Jem brushed off the counter attack, but a small glimmer in his eyes betrayed his satisfaction at seeing the ghastly white pallor begin to disappear from Jack’s face as his normal spirit reasserted itself.  “Hmmm, but this business of attacking a patient, likely to be serious is it?  It’s the last thing we need right now, bearing in mind what’s been going on at the school.”
“I certainly won’t be making a complaint about the San,” Jack responded bitterly, “And I can’t imagine that Con will either.”
“Con?  You mean…?  Oh no.” Jem sighed, “That’s the last thing she needed.  What did he do to her?”
“Does it matter?  He should never have gone anywhere near her,  I’ll tell you now, if I ever get my hands on him I will not be responsible for my actions.”
“You don’t mean?  He didn’t?”
“No!”  Jack guessed the direction Jem’s mind had taken and hastened to put him straight, “He tried to smother her, if you must know, after knocking her around a bit.”
“Well, I suppose that that’s something to be thankful for.”
“What, that he almost killed her?  Don’t you have the faintest idea what effect that has had on her?  Can’t you imagine how she must have felt?”
Jem was not over blessed with imagination, but he had a pretty good idea how he would have felt if he had been the victim of such an attack.  He shook his head sadly, “Poor little Con.  She’s always been such an inoffensive little creature.  But what about Joey?  How has she taken it?”
“I doubt if she knows anything about it.  It’s only a few hours since I found out myself.  Con has had all morning to tell Joey if she wanted her to know, obviously she doesn’t, or not yet anyway.”
“But surely Joey…”
“Don’t you go telling her, Jem.” Jack said warningly, “Con’s wishes are more important at the moment.”
“What is going on between you and Jo, Jack?  You always used to support each other through difficult times, now…..Joey even thought you might have done away with Eugen yourself, for heavens sake.”
“She’s going to be disappointed then isn’t she?  I dare say it would have suited her to think that.  She would have plenty of time to spend with her other men friends then.  Maybe Eugen would still be alive if she hadn’t spent so much time with him.”


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Nicolette on Jan 7th, 2004, 1:27am
Oooooh. Ouch! 

Thank you!


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 7th, 2004, 3:30am
Very definitely ouch! I feel rather sorry for Jem, coming into the middle of all this!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lesley on Jan 7th, 2004, 6:35am
Thank you for that Esmeralda - I also feel a little sorry for Jem, a great many of his illusions about both the School and San are being shattered!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 7th, 2004, 6:44am
*lol* Well, perhaps the branch in England is still going perfectly, so he can retreat there and console himself! 8oo

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 7th, 2004, 5:19pm
Thank you Esmeralda!! :-*

*also feeling slightly sorry for Jem!!*

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 7th, 2004, 5:32pm
Well, I was sort of hoping that Jem might be able to engineer a reconciliation between Jack and Jo....

“Jack!  What are you saying man?  You don’t mean it, for heavens sake use a bit of common sense.”
“Yes I do.  I think.  I don’t know, I don’t know what to think anymore, Jem.”  Jack rested his forehead against his hand, for a moment, “Maybe I will have a drop more of that brandy.”
He took the flask that Jem handed over silently, and sat fiddling with the screw top, making no attempt to drink any of the liquid. 
“I think you had better explain yourself, Jack,” Jem said grimly, “Either that or apologise for impugning Joey’s character.”
“Apologise?  Yes, I suppose I should, there’s little point in explaining, after all, if it’s a case of her word against mine you’ll believe her every time.”
“I would like to think that I would be fairer than that, Jack, but yes, if it came down to taking sides, then I would support Joey, every time, even if she was in the wrong.  But I would be very sad if things reached that point, I’m sure there must be some other explanation for your suspicions.”
“Thank you for being so honest, Jem, and I do mean that.  I would be sad too, to lose your friendship, it’s meant a lot to me, through out the years.”
Jem grunted, and pulled out a handkercheif which he used to cover up his feelings, finding himself unexpectedly touched by Jack’s declaration.  “Well, I hope you’d be a damned sight sadder at losing the love of your wife.” he said gruffly.
He was horrified to see Jack’s eyes suddenly fill with tears, having a mannish dislike of such open displays of emotion. 
“Damned brandy!”  Jack slammed the flask down on the desk, almost knocking his chair over in his haste to jump up and walk over to the window.  He too spurned childish tears and he was ashamed of his momentary weakness, and mortified at being overcome by his emotions in front of Jem, of all people.
“Look Jack, I don’t know what’s going on, and I’m not sure that I want to, but I think the best thing you can do at the moment is take Joey home and have a serious talk with her.  I’m sure you’ll find that things aren’t as bad as they seem at the present moment.  You’ve had a lot to deal with over the last couple of days, and I think it’s all getting on top of you a bit, you’re over reacting.”
“You think I should pull myself together, eh?  Well no doubt you’re right, but it’s not always as easy as we sometimes glibly assume, and if anything good comes out of all this it’s that I’ll be a better doctor because of it.  As for losing Joey’s love, I’m beginning to think I lost that a long time ago, I’ve just been fooling myself all these years.  If she ever did love me.”
“What do you mean, if she ever did love you?  Now you are being ridiculous.  That was obvious to everyone.”
“Was it?  Was it real love though?  Len thought she loved Reg after the shock of his accident, Joey and I had been through much more together by the time we married, how do I know it wasn’t the same kind of reaction?”
Jem snorted, “I know it wasn’t, and so do you if you stop to think about it.  It strikes me that you’re just trying to find excuses for your own behaviour.” he paused for continuing in more moderate tones, “If you had seen her when she got that telegram from the Admiralty, Jack, when we all thought you’d been drowned during the war, then you would known how much she loved you.  She had lost everything.”
Jack opened the window wider, heedless of the draught which disturbed the papers on his desk, and lit a cigarette.  Usually, he avoided smoking in the San itself, reasoning that the smoke would not be very beneficial to those of his patients who were already having breathing difficulties, but he felt that for once, he had every right to indulge himself.
“That’s as maybe,” he said eventually, “But she must have had some idea how I felt about her before she went to India.  Oh I know she was trying to get away from that other chap, what was his name now? But she didn’t have to go to such lengths, I would have looked after her then, but she didn’t stop to think about my feelings did she?  And it didn’t stop her having that fling with that officer on the ship did it?  Or having his babies.”*
“What?  What on earth are you talking about?  Friend or not Jack, if you persist in inventing such, such vile rumours, I’ll knock you from here to Kindom come.”

*Mentioned by kind permission of ‘Robin‘.


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 7th, 2004, 5:51pm
Yay!!! I love the way all the drabbles are starting to interlink!! ;D

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lesley on Jan 7th, 2004, 5:55pm
Oooohhhh! Fight between Jack and Jem! Think Jack would win though - Jem must be at least 10 years older, there again if he really doesn't know about Joey's past indiscretions righteous indignation could carry him through!!!

More please Esmeralda! (Of course!)


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Pat on Jan 7th, 2004, 5:56pm
Depends whether it's before or after 'More Shocks' doesn't it? 

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 7th, 2004, 6:00pm
It's set before More Shocks, Pat, sorry I got permission to mention them from Robin before you started MS - I'll edit it out if you want.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Pat on Jan 7th, 2004, 6:44pm
Don't you dare edit it out!!!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by PatMac on Jan 7th, 2004, 7:03pm
Wow! Esmeralda  Great!!

I stayed up till 4.00 am reading Tensions on your web site.  REALLY GOOD ( shouting deliberate).

Keep it going, please.


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Ally on Jan 7th, 2004, 10:08pm
I'm beginning to wonder if the world is one long drabble!! 

That was excellent Esmeralda, but I now have a horrifing thought that Joey will be pregnant by Roger ~ just to add to the problems!


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lesley on Jan 7th, 2004, 10:39pm

on 01/07/04 at 22:08:39, Ally wrote:
That was excellent Esmeralda, but I now have a horrifing thought that Joey will be pregnant by Roger ~ just to add to the problems!

Who admitted he was gay some 50,000 words back!


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Carolyn P on Jan 7th, 2004, 11:03pm
Wow, wonderful develoopments Esmerelda, do keep it up.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Abi on Jan 7th, 2004, 11:13pm
:o :o :o Oh my goodness Esmeralda! Please post more soon!!!!!

Abi *for once almost speechless*


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Catherine_B on Jan 7th, 2004, 11:17pm
Oh wow! 

*also speechless!*

If we all just keep drabbling for long enough, do you think we'll create a whole, consistent, alternative reality?


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 8th, 2004, 12:17am
Thank you all. :-[

 

“Go ahead,” Jack turned to face him, “I dare say I deserve it.  I never imagined that you didn’t know.”
“What?” Jem sat down heavily, more convinced by Jack’s apologetic manner than he ever would have been by any amount of self justification.   “I don’t know what you’re talking about Jack, but having said so much, I think you’d better tell me the rest.”
Jack shook his head, “It’s not for me to tell, Jem.  I’m sorry that I mentioned it, I certainly wouldn’t have if I’d realised she never told you.  The best thing you can do is forget all about it.”
“Forget about it?  How do you propose that I do that?  Good grief, I’m going to be imagining all sorts of things.”
“With respect, Jem, it’s none of your business, and I am not going to start discussing my wife’s private affairs with you or anyone else.  As I said, I would never have mentioned it in the first place if I hadn’t thought you knew all about it, and if I could take the words back, I would have.”
“*********” Jem cursed loudly, “You were ready enough to start discussing her private affairs with Eugen Courvosier a few minutes ago, perhaps you should have thought before you started on that particular topic.”
“Private?  When the Platz is gossiping about it?  I think that makes a difference don’t you?  She didn’t even other to be discrete.”
“Maybe she had nothing to be discrete about.  If her meetings with Courvosier were all above board, why should she try to hide them?”
“I, I….” Jack suddenly found himself at a loss for an answer.
“Well, what did she have to say about it?  Haven’t you even spoken to her?”
“No, I didn’t speak to her, I don’t go quizzing her about every person she speaks to, I trusted her.”
“So what’s changed?  Why have you stopped trusting her now?”
“I, I got a letter…..”
“A letter?  You suddenly decided to start doubting her, discounting, what, how many years of married life on the basis of a letter?” Jem roared, “I really am beginning to think you’ve been overdoing things, Jack, you must have taken leave of your senses.  Perhaps I ought to send David over here to look after things for a couple of months, while you have a break.”
“That will not be necessary.”  Jack bristled at the mention of his nephew, Jem’s son.  When he had accepted the post as director of the Swiss branch he had blithely assumed that it was a stepping stone, preparation for taking over the whole show upon Jem’s eventual retirement.  That had been before David had chosen to follow his father into medicine, but even when David had completed his training, Jack hadn’t been too concerned, nor even when he began to work at the Welsh Branch, lately though, there had been hints that David figured rather more in Jem’s plans for the future than Jack.  And Jem had already clearly spelt out that family came first once that afternoon.  Well, Jack could do nothing about that, but he was damned if he was going to let David Russell get his hands on his present job.
As if he had been reading Jack’s thoughts, Jem continued to expand upon his idea, “Yes, that might be the best solution, give you a break and give David the opportunity to take on a bit of extra responsibility, he needs to develop his managerial skills, after all, I won’t be around for ever.”
“And I said I don’t need a break, I’ll admit that I’ve had a few problems lately, it’s just a case of everything coming t once.  I am still quite capable of doing my job, thank you.”
“Are you?  From what I’ve seen here today I’m beginning to very much doubt it.  You assault one of your underlings, who is later found dead, oh I know you didn’t have anything to do with that, not directly anyway, and you allow another doctor to go on a drunken rampage, and it’s no thanks to you that he didn’t do more damage, and goodness knows what else is going to come crawling out of the woodwork before I go back.  Now as I said before, take Joey home and have a good long serious talk with her.”
“I’ll do no such thing.  We’re short staffed already, if you hadn’t noticed.”
“And how much work have you done today?  You’ll go home Jack, and that’s an order.  I’ll take over for the rest of the day.  I may not have done much medical practice lately, but I’m still more than capable of taking it on if I have to.  Now get out of here.”


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 8th, 2004, 12:44am
Ooooooooooooooooooooooh!! Nepotism........................

Thank you Esmeralda!!!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 8th, 2004, 12:51am

on 01/08/04 at 00:44:12, Vikki wrote:
Ooooooooooooooooooooooh!! Nepotism........................

Well - this is he Chalet School we're talking about!


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 8th, 2004, 1:15am
I'd forgotten that!!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lesley on Jan 8th, 2004, 5:05am
Thank you Esmeralda - another wonderful episode!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 8th, 2004, 5:22am
I'm not surprised that Jem was grooming David for that position. I'm rather astonished that Jack didn't realise it before now!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Pat on Jan 8th, 2004, 11:55am
*Wondering how Jack was supposed to have stopped Reg*

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 8th, 2004, 8:22pm

on 01/08/04 at 11:55:49, Pat wrote:
*Wondering how Jack was supposed to have stopped Reg*

May I suggest pushing him off the edge of the Platz? ;) ;D


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Susan on Jan 8th, 2004, 11:05pm
Oh Esmeralda this is so good. Really enjoying it.

Dare I say more soon please?  Oops I just did!!


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Carolyn P on Jan 8th, 2004, 11:21pm
Great again Esmerelda. Is Davis going to turn up, it will be interesting to see what you have made of him, he didn't appear much as he grew up did he?

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 9th, 2004, 12:25am
Pat; I think Jem felt that Jack shiuld have noticed Reg's behaviour earlier, and tackled him about it.

Carolyn;  I'm not sure if David is going to turn up or net - he may do, but I don't think he'll have a very major role, but as you say, we dn't see much of him, so he could be anything really - I do have one or two thoughts, but we'll have o wait and see, and I do mean we at this point you probably know nearly as much as me.
I do know what is going to happen to some of the characters, but not all of them, unfortunately.
Oh, and I know I said I was going to leave Jack alone for a while, but....
 
 

Realising that he had little to gain, and maybe much to lose, by continuing to oppose Jem, Jack did as he older man had ordered.  As he walked away from the office he realised that it was something of a relief to be able to hand all his responsibilities over to someone else, for a short time at least.  Maybe he did need a break, but he was damned if he was going to admit it.
That was not the uppermost thought in his mind though, rather more urgently, he was wondering how the hell he was going to persuade Jo to return home with him.  That was rather easier for Jem to suggest than it was for him to accomplish, but then Jem, being married to the more biddable Madge, would never have considered that.  He knew that Jem was right about one thing, though, he and Jo did need to talk, if they could manage to have a conversation without it degenerating into the painful squabbling of the previous day.

As it was, it turned out rather easier to persuade Jo to return home than he had imagined,  Jo was beginning to regret her promises to Con; After the initial pleasure at seeing her mother had worn off, Con hadn’t seemed to be too bothered about her presence.  Indeed, she had spent virtually all of the last hour with her eyes shut, almost as though she didn’t want her to be there.  Moreover,  thanks to Jem, Jo no longer had any doubts about her daughters eventual recovery, but having vowed to spend with the girl, she felt that she had no option but to see it through.
Just when Joey was wondering if it might not be breaking her promise to slip out for another cup of coffee, Jack walked into the room.  She looked at him warily, but he spoke to her civilly enough, no doubt because of Con, she presumed.
“All right, Jo?  How is she?”
“Quiet,” Jo replied in the same low tones, “I don’t know, I really think she might be a little better.”
“Hmm,”  Jack was less convinced, his long experience alerting him to signs that Jo had missed, but he had no intention of discouraging Jo’s opinion.  “”She’ll soon be over the worst,” he said, “But not soon enough eh, young lady?”  The last was addressed to Con who had suddenly opened her eyes, believing that her father had finally got around to keeping his promise.
“Is it true?  Am I soon going to be better?”  Con looked at him pleadingly.
“In a couple of days, most of his will just be a bad memory.” 
Con shuddered slightly, knowing that there were some things which she would remember for the rest of her life. 
“I’m sorry, about, about what you’ve had to go through, Con.  I promise it won’t happen again.”  Jack turned away, unwilling to see again the look of reproach which had glinted in her eyes earlier.  “Jo, I need to talk to you, can you slip outside for a minute?”
“You can talk to me here, Jack, I’m not leaving Con’s bedside.  I’m staying here tonight, that nurse is going to sort out a put-me-up.”
“That’s not necessary, Jo.  Con needs some peace and quiet, a bit of time on her own with nothing to disturb her.  That’s why she’s here, there’s nothing here to disturb her.” He gave Con a quick glance, hoping that she would understand the meaning behind his words.
“I promised Con I would stay with her, and stay with her I shall.” Joey said determinedly.
“There’s no need, Mamma, it’s really sweet of you, but I think I really would rather be on my own,” Con broke in, willing to admit to her mother that she did not want her extended company now that she had someone to back her up.
“Jo, I understand that you feel it’s your place to be by Con’s side, but shouldn’t Con’s needs come first?  Jem’s told me the rest of the day off, to give us chance to have a bit of time together, come home with me now, and I promise I’ll bring you back later, and then if Con does feel that she wants you stay, you can.  There are some things I need to tell you, Jo, will you come?”
Jo looked at Con, “Do you really want me to go, my lamb?  Yes?  Very well then, but I’ll be back later, I promise.”  She stood up, “Very well, Jack, I’ll come you, there are a couple of things that I would like to discuss.”  The look she gave him contained none of the tender concern which she had shown towards Con, just a warning that he could expect to be given a hard time once they were alone.

 


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 9th, 2004, 12:25am
Left to himself, Jem began rearranging the papers on the desk, discovering  one or two documents which he found very interesting.

The day seemed to be passing by relatively peacefully, with no emergencies arising to test Jem's skills, and he wasn't disturbed until Phil Graves  knocked tentively on the door an hour or two later.
"If you dont mind, I'd like to ask you something, I'm sorry, if you think I’m being presumptious, but I do  think that as I'm in charge when Jack Maynard isn't here,I have a right to know if it's true that you have suspended him?"
"What?” It was not a question that Jem had been expecting, and he was quite horrified to think that his actions had been misinterpreted in such a manner, he decided that this was one rumour which needed squashing immediately “Presumptuous?  I’ll say you’re being presumptuous. Where on earth do all these scurrilous stories come from, that's what I would like to know. And why on earth would you think that I would do  such a thing?"
"I take it it's not true then, in that case I'm sorry to have disturbed you," Phil tried to leave before he managed to upset Jem any further, but Jem was having none of it.
"Now you wait a minute, before you go skulking off.  I want to get to the bottom of this, where did  the idea come from in the first place, and how many people have already decided to believe it? Come on, I'm waiting."
"Very well, first, he was seen leaving the building without saying anything much, secondly, you were overheard arguing earlier, and third,  with all this business with Eugen, and young Entwhistle who has obviously  been a liability for some time, it would hardly be a surprising outcome."
"And quite a desirable one from your point of view, eh?  well it's a pity your spy didn't bother to listen to all the  conversation" Jem replied scathingly. "And it's a pity you decided to take such title tattle seriously. As the rest of it, if Entwhistle's  behaviour has really been so obvious why didn't you do something about it?
As you just reminded me Phil, you are second in command here, which does give you some authority, not to mention responsibility,  but frankly I can see little evidence of you  exercising it.  Yes, I did send Jack home today, but for no other reason than that  he needs a break." Jem picked up a sheaf of papers and waved them at  Phil, "Do you realise thati t's well over six weeks, closer to seven, since  he last had a day off?  I can see from these rota's that there have been  quite a few absences lately, with sickness, injuries and not to mention staff holidays, but everyone else has had at least one day off every week,  including you, I might add.  You’re paid a considerably higher salary than most of the doctors here, precisely because of this kind of eventuality.  Maybe it’s time you began to justify it.  Who worked these rota’s out?”
“We did them together, and Jack certainly never asked me to take on any of his days.” Phil attempted to defend himself.
“It shouldn’t have been necessary should it?  I suggest you go and think about your own behaviour before you start condemning anyone else, and you can put a stop to this vicious rumour while you’re at it.  And one more thing, Dr Graves, at the moment I’m in charge during Jack’s absence.”
Phil left the office, feeling very squashed, and heartily wishing he had never plucked up the courage to approach Jem in the first place, which was exactly what Jem had intended.  No matter what he may have to Jack earlier, in private, he was damned if he was going to allow the rest of the staff say the same things behind his back.  Besides which, he had his reputation to think of, he had already done more than enough sympathy for one day, if he wasn’t careful people would start thinking he had gone soft.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Susan on Jan 9th, 2004, 1:32am
Two super posts Esmeralda.  Thank you so much.  Poor Phil feel a bit sorry for him. Hope Jo and Jack get things sorted!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 9th, 2004, 1:55am
Thank you Esmeralda! Waiting eagerly!!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 9th, 2004, 3:52am
Wonderful, Esmeralda! I'm thinking more of Jem after that little exchange. I can't help but think, though, that the whole San is about to be doctor-free soon!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lesley on Jan 9th, 2004, 7:15am
Many thanks for the last two posts, Esmeralda - wonderful as always!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by PatMac on Jan 9th, 2004, 7:45am
Thank you Esmeralda, your writing is really good and as for your imagination  :D :D :D

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 9th, 2004, 9:55am
*suggests that a chant is called for*

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Carolyn P on Jan 9th, 2004, 12:31pm
Wonderful Esmerelda, and Jem was right, to Jack (if a little harsh) and to Phil.

Now, what is going to happen between Jack and Joey?? ?? ?? ?? ?? 

*Chanting*


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Jennie on Jan 9th, 2004, 1:25pm
Two posts, thank you Esmeralda. Will there be a third very soon?

Hint, hint.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 9th, 2004, 1:31pm
Jem continued to sort through the paperwork, there were one or two letters which had arrived that morning which needed to be attended to fairly quickly, and after a few moments thought, he dealt with them himself.  The rest of the correspondance, which was not so urgent, he sorted into an orderly pile for Jack to look at upon his return.  He also made one or two changes to the staff rota for the forthcoming week - carefully excising Eugen Couvoisier’s name from the lists. 

Later, he did the rounds of the patients, finding himself wondering, when he had finished, why he didn’t take the opportunity to interact with his own patients more often.  It was after all, the reason he had trained to become a doctor, but somehow, during the development of the San, all that had got left behind.
He took an especial interest in the patients from the school, knowing that Hilda would be anxious to hear of their progress.  On the whole, the withdrawal process was taking it’s it’s inevitable course, and there was little good that he could say to Hilda, except that all the patients were getting the care and attention they needed, and eventually, it would all be over.  He didn’t expect any of them to suffer any long term effects; having been drugged involuntarily, and without their knowledge, they were not going to have any physiological cravings to contend with,  his only concern on that score was for Con, not because of the drug, but because of Reg Entwhistle.
When he had walked into her room, he had noticed her reaction at the sound of unfamiliar heavy footsteps, before she realised it was her uncle, and although she made a good show of being unconcerned, he felt that her fears would probably return in force once the darkness began to fall.  Bearing that in mind he asked her if she might be happier in a shared room, rather than on her own.  Con turned down his offer, tempting as it was, her reluctance to reveal herself to other people in a state of vulnerability overcoming her fears, besides which, as she explained, Jo had promised to spend the night with her, if that was what she wanted.
“Is that what you want?” he asked her.
“Not at the moment.  I know she only wants to look after me, it’s just a bit much sometimes.” Con admitted, “I wish Andrew could be here….”
“Not long till you get married, now is it?  He’ll be with as much as you want then.  What is it? Six months?”
“Nearly seven.”
They talked about the forthcoming wedding for a few minutes longer, until Jem, seeing signs that he was beginning to outstay his welcome, bade her good night.
 
 
 
 
 
 

 


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 9th, 2004, 1:32pm
Although Con didn’t know it then, as a result of the conversation, Jem immediately sought out Neil Shephard, and after a short consultation, Andrew Hamilton was contacted at his hospital in England, and arrived on the Platz the following morning, much to Con’s surprise and delight.

Before leaving for the day, Jem rang Hilda, to find out how both she, and the school in general were coping.
“With two mistresses and one Matron short, we’re all having to rush around too much to have time to brood,” She assured him, “And to top it all, a few of the middles, seem to be developing colds.  No there’s no need to get alarmed, Jem, it’s nothing to do with Matey, it seems the silly little girls had a pillow fight, which resulted in some of the pillows flying out the window, which they sneaked out and retrieved in their nightclothes, if you please, which needless to say, they then slept in all night, regardless of the fact that they were exceedingly damp.  To be honest, Jem, we could do with some help, if you happen to have a spare nurse or two.”
“I’ll see what I can do,” He promised, “I’ll be back shortly.”
When he did return, he was not alone, being accompanied by an extremely competent nurse, with a friendly, welcoming expression, but a glint in eyes which told that she was well prepared to squash even the most mischievous and errant middle.
Hilda Annersley approved of her instantly and was almost prepared to offer a full time position on the spot. It was only a reluctance to poach staff from the San which prevented her from doing so.
Once introductions had been made, Hilda and Jem took the nurse on a quick tour of the school, showing her the staff room, where she was generally made welcome, although her appearance was met with some surprise from those members of staff who had still to discover the full extent of matey’s behaviour.  After the nurse had sampled, and made the right noises about the coffee, although she was assured that it was much better ‘when Jeanne made it.‘ The tour moved onto the school sanatorium, where Isabel almost fell on her with relief, before Hilda led her off, leaving Jem to examine the middles who had most definitely been caught out in their unlawful activities.
“This will be your room….”Hilda began to say as they stood outside Matey’s door.
“Oh, lovely, may I see?”  before Hilda could do anything to prevent her, the nurse opened the door and stepped into the room, coming to a sudden stop at the sight of the small, wiry woman who was gazing at her malevolently from the room’s one and only armchair.
“Who are you?  What are you doing in my room?” 
“I’m terribly sorry, I didn’t realise, I was under the impression…” the nurse began to retreat.
Hilda decided it was time to take a hand.  “Gwynneth, this is Lesley Green, she will be taking over the nursing duties forthwith.”
Matey’s eyes narrowed, she glared at Hilda, her expression a mixture of loathing and pain, then she turned to the new nurse and hissed, “You ratbag!”
 
 

 


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Nicolette on Jan 9th, 2004, 3:06pm
Ooh, is Matey going to kick off with the nice nurse? As is Hilda hadn't had enough to deal with. 

And thankyou to Jem for sending for Andrew. at least someone's got some common sense. 

Esmeralda, thanks for introducing me to an entirely new experience...being genuinely pleased to see Jem!  ;D

This is all fantastic. Can't wait for more.


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lisa_T on Jan 9th, 2004, 5:43pm
*wondering if Matey is actually Vikki in disguise..* Hey, Esmeralda's just introduced Lesely, for goodness sake!

Psst: are you sure that was a good idea?! 
*having visions of another RCS style confrontation and goes to check the defences*


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lesley on Jan 9th, 2004, 5:55pm
8ooESMERALDA!!!!8oo

I nearly fell off my seat when I reached the end of your post!!! Not sure whether this is such a good idea - but I'm very honoured to be in your story!8oo

Oh and, most definitely, more please!


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 9th, 2004, 7:49pm
Nice one Esmeralda!!

Wish I could have seen your face Lesley!! (Now you get to experince how we felt in Real CS!!!)
And as for you Lisa!! For that comment, you get biffed with a pillow!!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lesley on Jan 9th, 2004, 8:36pm

on 01/09/04 at 19:49:37, Vikki wrote:
Nice one Esmeralda!!
Wish I could have seen your face Lesley!! (Now you get to experince how we felt in Real CS!!!)
And as for you Lisa!! For that comment, you get biffed with a pillow!!

LOL!!! I laughed solidly for ten minutes - it was so totally unexpected! I mean at least in Real CS you were all in it from fairly early on - but Emeralda has been writing this for months now!!!

(BTW Love the fact that Nicolette didn't know!)

Love it - please keep writing Esmeralda!


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Carolyn P on Jan 9th, 2004, 9:47pm
*chanting until I'm a little horse*

*neigh*

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 9th, 2004, 10:27pm

on 01/09/04 at 17:55:56, Lesley wrote:
8ooESMERALDA!!!!8oo

I nearly fell off my seat when I reached the end of your post!!! Not sure whether this is such a good idea - but I'm very honoured to be in your story!8oo

Oh and, most definitely, more please!

Well Lesley, did you really think you could send me skinny dipping in a sewerage plant and get away with it?
 

PS If any one else wants a name check I'll be happy to oblige, but you can't appear as yourselves I'm afraid, this is definitely NOT Real CS.


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Carolyn P on Jan 9th, 2004, 10:42pm
I think you should surprise people with name checks just dropped in rather than have everyone ask, because everyone will ask.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 10th, 2004, 12:14am
Yes, Esmeralda, you've opened the door now! *watches as people rush to be included*

And that was a great part! I giggled like mad when Lesley arrived!


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Susan on Jan 10th, 2004, 1:30am
Yay Andrew's back.  And Lesley - Esmeralda you are brilliant.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Kathy_S on Jan 10th, 2004, 2:10am
What?  Tensions between Lesley & Matey?  And to think I’d thought all possible opponents had already squared off.... ;D

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 10th, 2004, 3:29am
Haven't you been paying close enough attention, Kathy? ;)

I'm just not sure what Matey is still doing there. I wouldn't have expected her to still be on the school premises.


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 10th, 2004, 12:34pm
Jem just has't got round to sorting her out yet - actually thanks for mentioning it, I was going to draw a veil over the remainder of the particular day (I think that at 24,000 + words it has gone on long enough) but I suppose he ought to tell her what he's going to do before he puts his slippers on and settles down for the night.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Jennie on Jan 10th, 2004, 5:06pm
Esmeralda, I thought that you had given us another lovely long post, I'm so disappointed that it isn't.

This is another of my subtle hints.
;D ;D ;D


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 10th, 2004, 5:20pm
*sends Jennie a copy of the dictionary definition of subtle, as she seems unfamiliar with it!* ;D

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Nicolette on Jan 10th, 2004, 5:37pm
*slaps self on head as she realises who the nurse is* Doh!  :-[

embarrased to admit I never did read the whole of Real CS, Lesley, do you have it in its entirety without all the yibbling? And if so, could you send it to me please, I really feel like I've missed out on something big. 


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 10th, 2004, 9:04pm
Nicci, I think she already has a link to it. Click on the little house under her avatar.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 10th, 2004, 10:08pm
You're in for a real treat Nicci, Real CS is brilliant.

OK, KB, I am now getting Matey off the premises.

With no other warning, Matey suddenly picked up the nearest object, a half filled cup of coffee, now stone cold, and hurled it in the direction of the new nurse.  Lesley instinctively jumped to one side, and suffered no injury save for getting a good soaking from the now less than nectar like liquid.  Hilda though, wasn’t so fortunate, Lesley had been standing in front of her, obscuring her vision, and the nurse’s evasive action meant that Hilda’s left cheek took the full brunt of the cup. 
She gasped and staggered slightly, clutching at her face. Lesley spared her a quick glance, before carefully backing away from the women in the armchair, keeping her eyes on her lest she decided to send the saucer after the cup.  Reaching Hilda, she put her arm around her shoulders and pulled her through the door.
Once outside the room Lesley took a quick look at Hilda’s face, thankful to find that the cup hadn’t hit her in the eye,  although she was slightly concerned by the small trickle of blood which was running from the head’s mouth.
“It seems as though you have the honour of being my first patient,” she said, “I expect Dr Russell is still in the San, do you think you can manage to walk up there?”
“I would be a spineless jellyfish if I couldn’t, and I don’t think I’ve reached that stage yet.”
Lesley grinned, thinking that she and the head were going to get along together very well.  If she decided to stay at a school which clearly contained more than it’s share of mad women.
Jem Russell was still in the san, and Lesley handed Hilda over to his care, not because of any doubts about her own ability to minister to the injured woman, but as a matter of courtesy.  She was vaguely aware that Dr Russell had some connection with the school, although she was unsure of the details, and she assumed that he would expect to be deferred to while he was still on the premises.
While Jem looked at Hilda, Lesley told him what had happened to cause the injury. 
“Right, that settles it.” He exclaimed as he finished his examination, “You’re going to have a nasty bruise, Hilda, I’ll give you some lotion to put on it.  She’s loosened a tooth too, that’s where the blood is coming from, but thankfully it’s no worse.  I dare say you’ll have to arrange a trip to see Herr Francius, is it, in the next couple of days, but it could have been worse, eh?  Nurse Green will give you a couple of aspirins, then I suggest you take things easy for a while, maybe an early night’s in order eh?  Now, I think it’s time I dealt with Matey for once and all, and after this, she can forget about a job stacking sheets in Wales.”
“But, Jem…..”
“I’m sorry, Hilda, I’ll give her a generous enough severance pay, so she can set herself up somewhere, but that’s all I’m prepared to do for the woman, and that’s more than she deserves.”
He turned to Lesley, “I’m sorry you had such a, an unconventional welcome the Chalet School, Nurse Green, but I promise that Matron Lloyd will be off the premises within an hour.  In the meantime, maybe Isabel could find her somewhere to sleep, just for tonight?” He looked enquiringly at the young girl who had been avidly listening to their conversation.
“Err, yes, of course.” Isabel flushed at being caught out in such a manner and hastily headed off to the laundry cupboard.
It occurred to Jem for the first time, in the middle of his speech, that he had no idea where he was going to sleep himself.  When he had left England that morning, he would, if he had thought about the matter at all, have assumed that he would spend the night at Freudesheim, but bearing in mind what had happened since then, that no longer seemed  to be a viable idea.  Nor would it be seemly for him to spend the night at the school, which left him with two choices, either he could beg a bed at the San, which in its self would give rise to even more speculation, or he could book himself into the same hotel as Matey.  As unappealing as he found the idea of spending the night in the same building as the embittered woman, he decided that on the whole, that was his best option.


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Nicolette on Jan 10th, 2004, 10:20pm
I can't believe Matey threw the cup at Hilda! I'd be running from the Chalet as fast as my legs could carry be if I'd done that!

And Matey and Jem in a hotel together.... (or is that just my mindset?)  ;)


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 10th, 2004, 10:23pm
Nicci! :o  How could you think such a thing?  Please pick your mind up out of the gutter and give it a good wash.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Nicolette on Jan 10th, 2004, 10:40pm
*blushes* I couldn't really see it happening, but it sure would cause some Tensions!  ;)

*finds that washing mind causes it to shrink, which can not be good, especially as it was only tiny to start with*  ::) 


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lesley on Jan 10th, 2004, 11:56pm
Excellent episode Esmeralda! Thank you! ;D

*Bet Hilda wishes her new nurse hadn't moved so fast! ;)*


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lisa_T on Jan 11th, 2004, 1:16am
Yes, how do you feel about being responsible for an injury to your favourite character, Lesley?

Ooops. How silly of me(!) You've done worse than that to her! ;D ;D

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 11th, 2004, 2:28am
Jem kept his interview with Matey brief and to the point, explaining that there was no future for her at the Chalet School, and that he wished her to leave almost immediately since it was clearly not safe for her to remain on the premises, if she could not restrain herself from throwing objects at innocent victims.

Matey tried everything she could think of to make him change his mind, she pleaded, she cried, she tried the attempt at flirtatious behaviour which had so horrified him earlier, and when all that failed she resorted to screaming and swearing, coming out with some expressions that made even Jem blush. 
He remained unmoved and waited, stern faced,  until Matey was either thoroughly exhausted by her tantrum, or came to realise that nothing she could do could alter his mind.  As he anticipated, sooner, rather than later, Matey slumped back into her armchair, with a final wail, “It’s not fair.”
“No.  It isn’t fair that there are four people in the San suffering because of your actions, if there were any real justice in the world, you would be suffering alongside them.”
“I don’t feel well, Jem.  Jack, last night, he poured all the draught away, and the poppies…” Matey turned head and for the first time Jem noticed the small pile of broken terracotta in the corner of the room.  With a small exclamation he walked over to the woman and looked into her eyes, before shaking his head with disbelief and walking out of the room. 
He retraced his steps to the schools sick quarters where he sought out Isabel and sent her to pack a couple of suitcases for Matey, reasoning that since she already knew most of the story it would do no harm for her to be in at the end of it. 
There was no sign of Hilda, but the new nurse, freshly changed and with her hair still damp from being washed gave him a cheery wave from the far end of the room.  He waved back, satisfied that he had chosen well, and that no-one need have any fears for the quality of nursing at the school in the near future, before he descended the stairs to the office.  He begged the use of the telephone from Hilda and made a couple of phone calls before he negotiated for the use of the school’s car for the night, promising faithfully to return it first thing in the morning.
“You’re not staying at Freudesheim, then?” Hilda asked, “Having been privy to the second of his calls.
“Joey and Jack need a bit of time to themselves, I think.  Hilda?”
“Yes?”
“This is going to sound pretty awful no matter how I put it, but I think it would be better if Joey wasn’t troubled by any of the school’s problems in the next few days.  I know you tend to discuss things with her, but I honestly think she’s got enough on her plate at the moment.  Jack too come to that.  I think, barring any problems back in England, that I shall stay here for a few days at least.  There are a few things that I need to sort out at the San, and there is certainly a dire need for another doctor at the moment.”
Hilda’s eyes flashed, You’re right Jem, it does sound pretty awful.  As if I would burden my friends with my problems at the moment.”
“Yes, well,” he faltered uncomfortably as she treated him to her best headmistress gaze, “You are right.  I shouldn’t have said anything.  I’m sorry.”
“You’re forgiven.  I’ll admit that I was furious with Joey when I realised that she had called Madge behind my back, but I have to say now that I’m rather pleased she did.  You’ve been a great support to me today, Jem.”
“Well,” Jem suddenly developed a hitherto undiscovered interest in the patterns on the carpet, “Well. I’d best be off, eh?  And I’ll bring the car back in the morning.”

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 11th, 2004, 6:16am
Ooh, is there something between Jem and Hilda that we have so far not been privy to? 

More wonderful 'tension', Esmeralda. And thank you for taking care of Matey, although that went above and beyond all of my expectations! :o


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lesley on Jan 11th, 2004, 8:58am
Thank you Esmeralda - this just keeps getting better and better! ;D

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 11th, 2004, 2:58pm
No, there's nothing going on between Jem and Hilda - that was another drabble, he was just feeling a bit embarrassed by what Hilda said.  And even though he may have been unfaithful to Madge a couple of times, he wouldn't get involved with anyone so close to home, so to speak.

The journey to Interlaken was made in silence, Matey had become sullenly quiet once she realised that this really was the end of her career at the school, whilst Jem could think of nothing to say, and had no wish to engage the woman in conversation anyway.
He was relieved when they reached the small private clinic in Interlaken.  Wordlessly, he escorted Matey inside, and explained the situation to the receptionist.  Thanks to his earlier phone call, preparations had already been made and Matey was quickly escorted to the comfort of her own suite of rooms.  Before she was taken away, Jem hastily wrote out and handed her a cheque for her future provisions, the amount of 0’s on the end making the woman’s eyes widen in astonishment. 
It had taken Jem quite some time to decide on the final figure, which was far more than the woman deserved, but all in all, he had decided that both that, and the grossly expensive fees of the clinic were well worth paying if it meant that Matey was out of their lives for good, although, he reflected, the fact that she had been taking her own medicine probably explained quite a lot.
A few minutes more driving brought him to the Hotel where he had reserved rooms for the night.  He handed over the car keys to the attendant, who made it clear that he was not impressed by the school run a round.  Jem retaliated by deliberately giving the man a tip small enough to be an insult, before carrying his own small case into the lobby.  To his surprise it was full of people, some in rather strange attire, who seemed to be wandering around purposelessly.  He begin to make his way to the reception desk, grumbling softly to himself, when he was suddenly nearly knocked off his feet by a horse.
“Oh goodness, I’m awfully sorry.”  The horse apologised in decidedly female tone. 
“For goodness sake take that horses head off, Carolyn.  How do you expect to see where you’re going?”
Jem looked around, but whoever it was that had spoken had already disappeared in the throng of people.  He snorted, and continued to push his way through the crowd, beginning to wonder if everyone in the world had gone mad, save himself.


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Pat on Jan 11th, 2004, 3:01pm
Is Carolyn the horse a coincidence, or do we all know her, Esmeralda?!!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by PatMac on Jan 11th, 2004, 3:06pm
Another twist to the story!  Hooray  :D :D

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 11th, 2004, 3:07pm
I suppose that at this point I should insert the standard disclaimer about any similiarities to any person being purely coincidental etc,  or, alternatively,  I could just direct you to the top of page five8oo

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Pat on Jan 11th, 2004, 3:10pm

on 01/11/04 at 15:07:13, Esmeralda wrote:
I suppose that at this point I should insert the standard disclaimer about any similiarities to any person being purely coincidental etc,  or, alternatively,  I could just direct you to the top of page five8oo

Ah yes!  But surely a little horse is a pony?!!  Who else is there in fancy dress I wonder!!


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lisa_T on Jan 11th, 2004, 3:13pm
8oo! Oh, Esmeralda! LOL.

That'll teach Carolyn to make spelling mistakes like that and share them blatantly! 

More please. Soon. Very soon. I think you get the idea!


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 11th, 2004, 4:47pm
No more fancy dress I'm afraid - that was just a little bit of  light relief, something this story has been somewhat lacking in, I think, and since that one day had accounted for over a quarter of the whole story, it's more than time to skip to the following morning.

 

If Hilary might have hoped that her friends would be in a more reasonable state of mind the following morning, but she was to be disapointed. Not only did she find that no - one else in the dormitory was speaking to her, but she also discovered that Stella had reclaimed her original spot on the bathing list.
Being late already, through having to struggle through her cubey tasks without Stella's help, she flew in and out of the bathroom in record time.
Such speed, however, did nothing to improve her habitual messiness and she had scarcely begun to pull on her clothers when she found the curtains around her cubicle being thrown back to reveal Louise, who was in as bad a temper as anyone could ever remember seeing her. 
“I suppose you thought you were being clever, leaving the bathroom in a state like that?  Well I can tell you now, that there’s nothing clever about it all and you can joly well come back and clean it up now.  It’s your own fault no-one’s talking to you anyway, you’re the one who’s being an obstinate pig.”
“What am I supposed to have done?” Hilary, who had hitherto failed to realise how much help Stella had given her, looked at Louise in bafflement.
“The floor’s knee deep in puddles, you didn’t rinse the bath out, it’s still full of your scummy soap and your mangy hair…”
“My hair isn’t mangy, and it’s all still on my head.” Hilary snapped back, “And I don’t know what you’ve been doing to the bather, but I’m certainly not going to come and clear up after you.”
The other girls, all in various stages of preparation had by now stopped what they were doing to watch the argument.  “It wasn’t me, why would I try to make myself late,” Louise appealed to the audience.
“Qiute right, Lou, you tell her.”  Murmurs of agreement came from certain members of the dormitory.
“I will.  Right, you, get back to that bather now.”  Louise shouted at Hilary.
“I shan’t.”
“Yes, you will.” Louise grabbed Hilary’s arm and tried to bodily drag her from the cubicle.
“Get your hands off me.”  Hilary drew back her free arm and made as if to hit her tormentor.
“Girls!  What is going on here?”  It was inevitable that the noise would attract the attention the authorities, but it still came as shock to the girls to see the head herself standing in the doorway.
An oppressive silence fell over the room.  Louise may have been furious with Hilary, but she scorned telling tales, and Hilary was certainly not going to own up to a crime which she, in her ignorance, did not believe she had committed.  As it was her renitence did nothing to endear her to the other girls
Seeing that answers would be hard to come by, Hilda decide to delay the enquiry until a more opportune moment.  “Very well.  If you do not wish to speak you may continue to bath and dress in silence.  When you are ready, I will escort you to Fruhstock, where you will apologise to the rest of the school, and the kitchen staff, for the lateness of meal.  Apart from that, you will remain in silence until you come to my study immediately after your meal..  Now continue, quickly please.”
The girls did as she said, but the majority of them were inwardly seething, and in doubt as to who was to blame for their present woes.


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lesley on Jan 11th, 2004, 4:54pm
Love the little snippet with Carolyn! Has she seen it yet?

Like the fact we've picked up another thread in the story - excellent as always, Esmeralda! ;D


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 11th, 2004, 7:43pm
Esmeralda! Have you been feeding your bunnies on speed this weekend? ;)

Thank you for lots of story, and it's great to see Matey getting her uppance comed!!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 11th, 2004, 7:49pm

on 01/11/04 at 19:43:43, Vikki wrote:
Esmeralda! Have you been feeding your bunnies on speed this weekend? ;)

*Admits to putting her foot down when driving home on Friday night :P


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by PatMac on Jan 11th, 2004, 8:10pm
You fooled me with your horsey diversion!

And before anyone else says it "Easy to do!"


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Carolyn P on Jan 11th, 2004, 9:37pm
Just read it!!  ;D

Had me holding on my head as I laughed so that it didn't fall off.

BTW, it wasn't a spelling mistake, I did it on purpose!

Love this Esmerelda, more, more, more, PLEASE!


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 11th, 2004, 10:07pm
*Relieved that Lesley and Carolyn have taken this in the spirit intended.

Jem Russell came strolling through the door as Hilda was shepherding her flock of miscreants to the Speissasal.  He looked at girls curiously, but made no comment.  Hilda paused, “Go and take you’re places, girls quickly,” then having dismissed them she greeted Jem, “Good morning Dr Russell.   Would you care to join us for Fruhstock?”
“Er no, I’ve all ready eaten, thank you.”  Not for anything would Jem consider causing a minor sensation by partaking of his breakfast in front of the whole school, “I just came to tell you that I’ve brought the car back.  I’ll be getting off to the San now, I think.”
He suited his action to his word and set off along the road at a brisk pace.  Long before he arrived he was well aware that the years, and too much easy living, had caught with him.  What her formerly been pleasant stroll left him short of breath with a slight burning sensation in his lungs and an unaccustomed ache in his legs.
Seeing that there was no one around he stopped and leant against a tree while he caught his breath, before he resumed at a more sedate and comfortable walking pace.  Even so, he was not sorry when a car drew up beside him. 
“Good morning,” He uttered a greeting as he clambered into the passenger seat.
“Morning.”  Jack put the car back into gear and pulled back out onto the road, biting back a remark about Jem’s state of fitness.  There was an awkwardness between the two men which had never been present previously, and the conversation between them languished until they arrived at the San.
Once they arrived in the office the atmosphere lightened slightly, both men subconsciously relaxing as they found themselves  on more familiar territory.  Whilst Jack organised coffee for the two of them, Jem deliberately drew one of the visitors chairs up to the desk.  “It looks as though you’ve a bust day ahead of you,” Jem motioned to the appointments dairy while Jack took his own seat, “Otherwise I would ave liked to have given you more time off.”
“That isn’t necessary, I’m quite capable of doing my job.”
“I daresay, but you can’t keep going on the way you have been, Jack, you need a break as much as the next man.  I’ve spoken to Graves about it, I think you may find that he’s more prepared to do his share, now.  No, I know you’ve been trying to be fair to him, along with everyone else, but it’s time you started to be fair to yourself as well.  We need to do something about the staffing situation here, and I’ve got a few ideas, but we can discuss that later. How’s Joey?”
Jack picked up his cup and drank slowly before answering, “She say’s that she wants to go back to England with you, when you return.”


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by PatMac on Jan 11th, 2004, 10:12pm
Oh, dear!  Sounds as though Jack was as tactful as ever!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lesley on Jan 11th, 2004, 10:28pm
Thank you Esmeralda - glad that Jack and Jem are speaking once more. Not sure if Jack and Joey are though!

(Seriously impressed with the amount posted on this thread this weekend! ;D)


Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 11th, 2004, 11:17pm
*also very impressed*

Esmeralda, this is great! I'm so glad we're seeing the school as well as the San!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Susan on Jan 12th, 2004, 11:08am
Well done Esmeralda this is brilliant.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Abi on Jan 12th, 2004, 12:37pm
oooh, thank you Esmeralda, this is great (loved the little horse  ;D ). You must have been very busy lately!!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Esmeralda on Jan 12th, 2004, 7:57pm
He took another sip of coffee, “I had to tell her that I’d let the cat out of the bag regarding that India business, she wants to explain everything herself, to you and Madge.  Also, she thinks it will do us good to spend a few days apart, give us time to calm down, and look at things rationally.”

“And what about you?  What do you think?”
“Frankly, I think I’ve been a bloody idiot.  Most of the time at least.  But….” He shook his head, “Anyway, as you pointed out, I’ve a busy day in front of me.  I can’t sit here talking all morning.” He picked up the staff rota, looking up at Jem as he noticed that he had added his own name to the list of doctors on duty.
“I’m on hand, it would be a bit of a poor show if I couldn’t justify my existence.  Just tell me what you want me to do, and I’ll do it.”
“I see you checked on the patients yesterday evening, if you wouldn’t mind doing so again this morning, I’d be grateful.  There’s one particular patient that I’d like to see for myself though, in fact, I think I’ll pop in and see her right now.”
Con’s condition had visibly improved since the previous night, and she was eager to confirm that she was beginning to feel better, “I don’t feel quite right yet, but I do feel much better than I did yesterday.  But how is Mamma?  I don’t think she slept very well on that camp bed.”
“No, I don’t think she did.” Jack replied non - committally.  He and Joey had taken great care not to give Con any hint of the current bad feeling between them, but he had no idea if she had managed to pick up on the atmosphere.  If she had, she gave no sign of it, “Poor Mamma.  I hope you sent her straight to bed.”
“Hmmm. Now what about you?”  Somehow he managed to keep the conversation on safer topics for the remainder of his visit. 
Jack had not been given the opportunity to keep his promise to drive Joey back to the San the previous night.  After their talk had degenerated into yet another bitter quarrel, Joey, with a declaration that she didn’t even want to be in the same building as him at that moment, never mind the same car, had driven herself to the San, her own temper thoroughly aroused, so much so that the short journey did not provide her with enough time to calm herself and she had had to sit in the car park for a good fifteen minutes before she felt composed enough to face her daughter.  She had been furious when she heard the full story of what had passed between Jack and Eugen, but compared to what followed, when she discovered that Jack had so casually let slip the secret she had kept for all those long years, it seemed, to him, as if she had almost been acting out her anger, rather than feeling it.
He had taken note of Jem’s comments, that he was trying to find excuses for his own unreasonable behaviour, and yet, he still could not rid himself of his suspicions.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Jennie on Jan 12th, 2004, 8:51pm
All I have to say about this, Esmeralda, is 'Wow'!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 12th, 2004, 9:50pm
Excellent stuff, Esmeralda. I can't wait to see whether Jack's suspicions are justified or not!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Vikki on Jan 12th, 2004, 9:54pm
Thank you Esmeralda!!! More soon please!! :-*

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Carolyn P on Jan 12th, 2004, 10:08pm
Well done Esmerelda, and I love the way the other drabbles are being interwoven into this.

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by KB on Jan 12th, 2004, 10:36pm
*joins in the chant*

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Lesley on Jan 12th, 2004, 10:53pm
Also joining chant - Esmeralda I've run out of superlatives - sorry if I'm repeating myself - this is wonderful - and I want more!!!

Title: Re: Tensions ~ Part Seven
Post by Nicolette on Today at 12:25am
I've loved the last couple of posts Esme, I'm not sure how you're managing to switch from various scenes without getting confused, but you're doing a mighty fine job. Can't wait for the next installment.  :)

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