The CBB :: View topic - The Path You Choose

The Path You Choose

The CBB -> Cookies & Drabbles

Suggest the drabble's title

Reflections in the wind

11%

[ 4 ]

Given away but still loved

[ 0 ]

The past catches up

11%

[ 4 ]

Secrets at the Chalet School

37%

[ 13 ]

Lost daughters of the Chalet School

34%

[ 12 ]

Other (please feel free to suggest away)

[ 2 ]

Total Votes : 35

#501: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Mon Mar 22, 2004 11:32 pm

I notice Peggy said her "so-called" parents as if it was common knowledge...is she guessing, dropping hints, or do the staff know?

#502: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Mon Mar 22, 2004 11:41 pm

Tonight's bit...

“Laura?” Laura glanced up as her husband Sam entered the room. “Is everything alright? You’ve been so quiet since you got back yesterday, you’ve hardly said anything about Switzerland.”
“I’m sorry, it’s just I’m so confused about everything.”
“Do you need to talk it over?” asked Sam sitting down next to Laura.
“Who am I Sam?”
“What kind of question is that?”
Laura sighed. “I don’t know who I am anymore. I always thought I was Laura Jennings before I met you, then I was Laura Cartwright. Now I don’t feel like her at all, but I don’t feel like Cherry Wilson.”
“Cherry?”
“That’s my real name, what Nell named me. Don’t you see Sam? Tracing Nell has just thrown me completely, I feel like I’ve let my parents down.”
“Laura, you haven’t let them down. You have a right to know who you really are.”
“That’s just the thing Sam. I don’t really know who I am anymore. I don’t expect you to understand.”
“Did you not get on?”
“With Nell? We got along fine, she’s an amazing woman. She’s so strong, she’s been through so much. She’s coming for half term, you’ll meet her then.”
“What about your real father?”
“He doesn’t want to know.” Laura paused. “He’s Jem Russell.”
Sam looked quizzically at Laura. “The big cheese in TB?”
“That’s the one. He’s married to the school’s founder, Madge. I’ve met her, she’s lovely but he won’t have anything to do with me. He won’t accept it.”
“Laura, I’m sorry. This is all my fault, making you trace your real parents.”
“You mustn’t blame yourself Sam. I thought it was for the best as well, and I am glad I did it but at the same time I’m so horribly confused by it all. I don’t know how I’m going to explain everything to the children, they’ve been through so much with losing their grandparents I’m sure this will only confuse them.”
“They’ll understand.”
“I hope you’re right.”

#503: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Mon Mar 22, 2004 11:51 pm

Oh, golly! I wondered how she would cope with all that, and I was hoping it might be easy for her...

#504: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2004 12:37 am

Poor Laura. Finding your birth parents can't be easy to go through whether they're welcoming like Nell or disbelieving like Jem. At least Sam seems to be a "solid lump of somfort" for her.

#505: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2004 12:46 am

Thanks for the latest posts, Pim. Feel sorry for Laura - ust be terrible suddenly having to question who you are - at least she and Nell have a mutual respect. And perhaps her kids will come to look on Nell as a grandparent - not to replace the ones they've lost but as an extra!

#506: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2004 2:12 pm

It must be very confusing for Laura at the moment.

#507: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2004 2:22 pm

thanks for all that Pim! This is looking really good and dont' worry about it being longer than the dissertation...its more fun! When your ready could we have some more please...

*hoping jem continues to see sencse and that Laura is able to sort things out in her head abit*

#508: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2004 3:33 pm

Poor Laura/Cherry.

THis is wonderful Pim more soon i hoep!

#509: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2004 5:19 pm

excellent drabble Pim, keep up the good work, I'm really enjoying it.

#510: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2004 6:26 pm

Poor Laura. I hope she can turn it round into a positive experience.

#511: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2004 9:31 pm

A bit for now, may post some more before I go to bed since tomorrow is my last posting day before my HOLIDAYS!!!!!!! Sorry, very excited *g* And Nell, yes, this is more interesting than my dissertation - but not as easy to write.

The first week of the new term had been relatively uneventful at the Chalet School and Saturday saw Jo taking Madge down to Geneva to catch her flight back to England.

“Do you know what you’re going to do yet Madge?” asked Jo.
“I have a plan concerning Laura and Jem” said Madge. “And I’m not going to tell you about it Jo until after it has taken place. As for Jem and I, I have no idea. We have a lot of things to talk over and I know it’s going to take a long time for us to start repairing the damage we’ve allowed to happen. As for the children and I, I wouldn’t know where to begin. I’ve done so much wrong with them that I worry they won’t forgive me.”
“I’m sure they will Madge” said Jo gently. “I’m not so sure I can say the same thing about my own children however. I’ve behaved so appallingly towards them, especially Len. I should have realised that as adults they are free to make up their own minds no matter how hard I try to influence their lives.”
“We’ve both identified where we’ve gone wrong I think Jo. And as we know that, I hope we can go some way to repairing the damage.”
“I hope you’re right Madge.”

Madge arrived back at the Round House with a feeling of trepidation, she knew how much she needed to talk to Jem to begin working through their problems but at the same time she wanted to run away and ignore everything. Before she had a chance to reflect further Jem appeared in the front doorway.

“Madge” he called as he came to meet her.
“Jem” she replied as he took her bag from her and they entered the house. “We need to talk.”
“I know we do.”

#512: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2004 9:35 pm

Oh! Please not behind closed doors. We really need to hear this conversations, please, Pim.

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

Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2004 9:56 pm

Have had four days of great drabble to catch up on Very Happy

This is so great Pim, please don't make the interview be behind closed doors, we want to know what happens.
Oh and Caroline is Evil or Very Mad

#514: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 1:04 am

Dum de dum... closed doors? Okay, I said a bit before I went to bed.

Jem stared thoughtfully at Madge as they sat down. “Where did it all start to go wrong Madge?” he asked.
“Which part? You and me? Or us and the children?”
“All of it.”
Madge shrugged. “I don’t know Jem, I really don’t. Up until this week I didn’t realise how many problems we have to address; I don’t know if I blanked them out, tried to deny their existence or whether I was generally unaware of them. But what I do know is that this business with Nell and Laura has made me sit up and take stock of my life.”
“And?”
“Jem, I don’t want to lose you, and I don’t want to lose my children. I’ve got so many bridges to build with them, and whether you like it or not, Laura is your daughter.”
“How can you be so sure?”
“You haven’t seen her Jem. Besides, do you truly believe that Nell would lie to you about such a thing?”
Jem sighed. “I would hope that she wouldn’t, but you didn’t know her back then Madge. Things were so different. I was madly in love with Nell, but she… I don’t know, I don’t think she ever felt quite as strongly as I did. I was hurt when she ended things, I realise now that I behaved appallingly towards her then, but I only did it because I loved her so much. There’s a part of me which wants to accept Laura as my child, which wants to believe that Nell is telling me the truth. Yet there’s a part of me that keeps pushing it away, saying that it can’t possibly be true.”
Madge placed her hand on her husband’s arm. “The only way you’re going to be able to confront this Jem, is by meeting Laura.” She paused and stared at Jem. “It’s the only way.”
“I think you’re right Madge.”
“And as for our own children, I had no idea how selfish I’d been in insisting that Sybil and Josette gave up everything to come to Australia with us. We hardly ever see Ailie; David we haven’t seen in almost two years. Kevin and Kester, there’s time to repair some of the damage before they leave school.”
“Damage?”
“Jem we pushed our children away from us; when were we ever really there for them? There was always somebody else to look after them, then we sent them to boarding school. What kind of a relationship do we have with our children? It took meeting Laura to realise, in a few days she established a relationship with Nell that I can only dream of having with our children. We need to address this Jem.”
“And what about us?” asked Jem quietly.
“We have all the time we need to work through our problems. I still love you, despite everything that’s happened in the past week, but I need to know that you respect me. Jem, there are times when I feel so trapped, I don’t recognise the woman I’ve become.”

#515: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 3:03 am

Oooh!! thank you Pim!!!
Waiting patientlyish!!

#516: Author: Cathy, Location: Australia

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 4:30 am

Ooh thank you Pim, just reading the drabble in its entirety for the first time and loving it more and more as I got into it. Please write more soon, I can't wait to see what happens.

May I suggest a title too (I was one of the ones who clicked "Other" in the poll?). How about Mothers and Daughters at the Chalet School. (Maybe it's not as good as some of the other suggestions ...

Takes a deep breath, preparatory to beginning chant ...

#517: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 7:48 am

Good for Madge, having the courage to come out with that! I only hope Jem is willing to actually pay attention to her!

#518: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 11:12 am

I think Jem sounds as if he is prepared to be decent.

#519: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 11:23 am

Pulls out sofa bed ready for a nice long wait for Pim.

#520: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 7:17 pm

Thanks for your lovely posts, Pim. for the first time, I think we may have a happy ending Laughing

Have a lovely break in Finland and come back all refreshed both for the CBB and RL.

#521: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 7:19 pm

Wow thnaks Pim more soon i hope!

#522: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 7:59 pm

Okies, first bit for tonight, before my HOLIDAYS. *bounces excitably* There's a bit more to come tonight to keep you going in my absence. lol

“What a day” groaned Sharlie as she flopped into the nearest chair upon entering the staff room the following Thursday.
“What have your little darlings been doing to you?” asked Nancy with a wicked grin.
“Oh nothing out of the ordinary, I suppose. Clémence Piolat managed to upturn the entire contents of her inkwell over that new girl in Lower III, Ileana de la Cruz. Emma Ritchie caught her tunic on her desk and put a lovely rip all the way up the back of it. And to cap it all off, Bella Deglan was tilting – sideways, I ask you – and crashed over, bringing her entire desk down with her. I packed her off to Matey where she’s spending the night in the San feeling very sorry for herself.”
“Well you seem to have had a lovely time of it” remarked Peggy.
“I suppose I should be grateful that it’s just high spirits and general silliness on their behalves” remarked Sharlie. “Things could really be a lot worse.”
“Caroline Webster worse?” asked Nancy.
“Something along those lines. She really doesn’t seem to have improved at all over the last year. What is her history, anyone know?”
“No idea” commented Nancy. “Rosalie would be the one to ask I suppose.”

In the meantime, the third form common room had descended into it’s usual levels of chaos, largely on the part of Cecil Maynard who had declared that although she might be form prefect for Upper III she was not going to stop having her fun. Cecil’s latest idea of ‘fun’ to alleviate the boredom involved everybody standing on their chair and poking the person nearest to them to see who fell off first. Cecil uttered a squawk as her good friend Louanne Morley prodded her hard and she fell gracefully from her chair thus making her first ‘out’. They continued in this manner for quite some time until the noise levels attracted the attention of the Prefects who had descended upon the happy scene to find a good half of the third forms in various states on the common room floor and the other half squealing madly as they tried to remain on their chairs. Samaris Davis, the Head Girl, dealt promptly with the miscreants, sending several of them off to Matron to deal with sundry scrapes and bruises.

“I did so enjoy that game” sighed Cecil as they were finally left alone. “It’s no fun having to be sensible all the time.”
Polly nodded in agreement. “We need to have fun from time to time. I’m sure we’ll think up something soon though Cecil.”

#523: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 8:15 pm

Love the poking!!! Did you get the idea from Chloë?

More please!

#524: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 8:22 pm

What a horrible game Razz

Goodness knows what they'll come up with next!

#525: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 10:01 pm

Next bit for tonight... This time tomorrow I'll be in Stockholm *very bouncy*

The weekend came around and brought the sunshine to the Gornetz Platz. Jo was in her study singing to herself and trying to write when Anna brought Nell up to her.

“Nell, how lovely to see you” said Joey as she embraced her visitor briefly.
“You too Jo” replied Nell as she perched on the edge of a chair piled high with papers.
“Oh let me move those” began Jo.
“Don’t worry about it, I’m not stopping long.”
“Well really we should go down to the salon.”
“Jo, I just need to know if you’ve heard from Madge.”
Jo’s face softened. “Not in any detail Nell, I wish I had. I’m worried about her.”
“It’s all my fault.”
“Rot” retorted Jo.
“Sorry?”
“If anyone’s at fault here it would seem to be Jem.”
“Nell, I believe Madge over Jem, she’s my sister after all. You weren’t to know that this would happen.”
“I should have been honest about Jem from the start.”
“What good would that have done?”
“None probably. But it could have saved all the heartache now.”
“And what if Laura had never traced you? Nell, you made a mistake once, and it was a long time ago. Madge has accepted it, I’ve accepted it, Jem hasn’t and you don’t know how much I wish he would. Madge has changed so much in the last couple of weeks, she’s exposed holes in her marriage and relationship with her children that I never even knew were there. Holes that I wouldn’t have noticed if she hadn’t pointed them out. She and Jem have got a lot that they need to address, maybe they would have noticed them eventually, but Laura provided a catalyst.”
“I just wish…”
“Don’t wish Nell.” Jo took Nell’s hands in her own. “You deserve this chance to get to know your daughter, she deserves the chance to know her father. If Jem doesn’t want to take this chance then that’s his own tough luck. And in a funny way, this whole experience has been good for us all. Madge, is more like the old Madge – it’s made her a lot stronger, and I’m glad about that.”
“Jo, I can’t believe you’ve been so understanding.”
Jo smiled. “Nell, this is one time I can’t don my mantle as champion butter-in, but you know where I am if you ever need to talk. And as soon as I hear from Madge I promise I’ll let you know.”
“Thanks Jo.”
Jo’s eyes twinkled wickedly. “Oh and Nell Wilson” she began with a jokey air. “Just remember who the grandmother is among us.”

#526: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 10:18 pm

See Jo can be understanding and thoughtful without butting in!
*drops dead from shock*

Seriously though, I'm sorry Nell is blaming herself though I can see why she might.

#527: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 10:22 pm

Thanks for that Pim, and for thinking of us before your holiday, I hope you have a great time - you'll probably even be there by the time I read your next post.

#528: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Wed Mar 24, 2004 11:43 pm

Thanks for leaving us that nice bit before you go Pim. We'll expect you to come back with loads of ideas in your head.

Have a good trip.

#529: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Thu Mar 25, 2004 12:46 am

Last bit that I promised for tonight. Hopefully some more whilst I'm in the wilderness, depends on the parents' temperamental puter/dial up connection Sad

“What’s the matter mum?” asked Elizabeth as she and her younger brothers settled down on the sofa facing their parents.
Laura stared at her children sitting before her and took a deep breath. “I’ve got something important to say to you three.”
“Mum?” asked Elizabeth, a worried edge to her voice.
“You remember your Gran and Granddad don’t you? My mum and dad?”
“Of course we do” piped up William, the youngest of the boys.
Laura looked at Sam for support, he smiled gently. “They weren’t my real mum and dad.”
Elizabeth frowned. “What do you mean?”
“My real mum couldn’t look after me, she was too young so she gave me away to Gran and Granddad so that they could look after me properly.”
“You were adopted then?” asked Elizabeth. Laura nodded. “Oh right.”
“I found my real mum, that was why I went to Switzerland. I went to see her, she’s going to come and visit me in a few weeks time.”
“So she’s going to be like a new Gran then?” asked Patrick, her middle child.
“Sort of” replied Laura. “I know you all miss Gran and Granddad, and this won’t be the same”
William gazed at Laura, a thoughtful expression on his face. “I miss Gran” he announced. “But I like the idea of a new one.” Laura was taken aback by William’s statement as he leapt up and strangled her in a bear hug. “Can I go and play now?” Laura nodded and William ran off gladly.
“Elizabeth? Patrick?” she asked, knowing that they wouldn’t accept things with William’s seven year old simplicity.
Patrick slid off the sofa. “I understand as well mum” he said before leaving the room.
Elizabeth bit her lip hard. “Mum? She won’t be like replacing Gran will she? Your real mum, I mean.”
“Of course not Elizabeth. Just think of Nell as an extra Gran.”
“It won’t be the same as Gran though.”
“I know it won’t.” Laura knew how close Elizabeth had been to her grandmother. “But Nell won’t try to take Gran’s place, she just wants to know you.”
Elizabeth nodded. “I want to meet her too.”

#530: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Mar 25, 2004 12:59 am

Lovely two posts Pim - Joey is very understanding. And I think Laura's kids reacted perfectly! Hope to get more soon - but have a good holiday!

#531: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Thu Mar 25, 2004 7:20 am

Have an excellent vacation, Pim! And thank you so much for not leaving us on a cliff. I so needed a happy story tonight, and you just provided it.

#532: Author: Tassie_Ellen, Location: Tasmania, Australia

Posted: Thu Mar 25, 2004 11:20 am

What a lovely last bit to leave us with, Pim! Laura's children were so great, and I love the idea of Nell as "an extra Gran" - my daughter has 3 grandmothers (as I have a step-mother) and she loves spending time with all three!

Hope you have a lovely holiday and come back rested and ready to give us lots more drabble Very Happy

#533: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Thu Mar 25, 2004 1:02 pm

Thanks Pim. I think Joey interacted perfectly with Nell there, especially the grandmother teasing.

#534: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Mar 25, 2004 5:08 pm

I'm glad Laura's children are so accepting of the situation, let's hope that they like Nell.

Jo not butting-in, makes a nice change, doesn't it?

#535: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Fri Mar 26, 2004 3:02 am

Thank you pim! that was lovely! havce a great hol!!

#536: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Fri Mar 26, 2004 3:50 am

*echoes* have a great holiday.
But oh! It means we have to wait before seeing the meeting between Nell and the grandchildren!

#537: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Mar 26, 2004 1:35 pm

Have a great holiday, Pim. Perhaps you'll find an internet cafe in Finland.

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

Posted: Sat Mar 27, 2004 4:46 pm

Thanks for all the drabble Pim!
Have a lovely time in Finland, am v. jealous of you! Very Happy

#539: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Sun Mar 28, 2004 2:17 am

Thank you for all this lovely story Pim. I'm a bit behind with the drabbles at the moment so am glad to have caught up with this one.

#540: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Wed Mar 31, 2004 8:46 pm

*chuckles madly* I've written loads of this wilst I've been away, just need to get it into some sort of order which will be a bit on the difficult side. Not to mention the two new PBs I acquired whilst on my jollies.

I don't know yet whether popsicle's puter will read my memory stick, if it won't no more drabble til after Easter, if it will over the next few days when I've typed up/battled the dial up connection to get online. Grr....

#541: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Thu Apr 01, 2004 10:49 am

Good Luck Pim....home the home computer can cope!

#542: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Thu Apr 01, 2004 11:41 am

It has to cope. Otherwise no more story until after Easter. Sad

#543: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Apr 01, 2004 1:26 pm

That would be a great shame, Pim, as I'm enjoying this very much.

#544: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Sat Apr 03, 2004 6:48 pm

Yippeee! My lovely daddy managed to borrow me a laptop from college for the holidays as his puter will only supoprt my brother's memory stick but not mine or my dad's. So after a few wibbles this morning trying to find the floppy disk drive for the laptop (it comes separate) I thinkI'm ready to roll again, yay!

“C’mon Claire” grumbled Polly under her breath. It was Tuesday and therefore German day, and Polly was keeping a look out in the Splashery as Claire rifled through her locker.
“Aber ich kann mein Worterbuch nicht finden” groaned Claire in reply as she flicked through her things yet again. “Es ist nicht hier, ich weiss nicht wo es ist.”
Polly raised an eyebrow, almost sceptically, not wanting to believe that Claire could be this stupid this early on in term. “Wir mussen gehen” she reminded her friend.
“Aber ich muss es finden.”
“No time for buts Claire, Miss Andrews will have us if we’re late.”
“You’re right” replied Claire as she shoved her possessions back in her locker hoping that Matron wouldn’t take it upon herself to do a locker check. “I’ll just have to try and explain why I haven’t got it.”

“It’s just not like her to be so careless!” exclaimed Sharlie that Thursday night to Nancy and Joan Bertram. “And I most certainly refuse to believe that Claire would be this stupid with her possessions so early on in term.”
“You think someone’s responsible for this then?” asked Nancy.
“Not Caroline?” asked Joan in a shocked voice. “She wouldn’t be so daft surely?”
Sharlie shrugged. “I want to give Caroline the benefit of the doubt. At the moment it just seems like carelessness on Claire’s part; everything that’s gone missing has turned up the next time she’s needed it. And Matey’s had to have words with her over the state of her locker – she’s been leaving it in a right mess, although I can only assume it’s happened as she’s been looking for things.”
Nancy gazed thoughtfully at her younger colleague. “Well we certainly can’t worry Kathie about it. I saw Peter the other day, he said she’s in no fit state for anything – she’s absolutely worn out – which does rule out my visit at the weekend.”
“Oh I’m sorry Nancy” said Sharlie sympathetically. Marriage and motherhood had had no effect on the friendship between Kathie and Nancy and they were as close now as they ever had been, and Sharlie knew how much they valued the time they managed to spend together.
“Well there’s nothing we can do about it Sharlie. I’ll just have to hang on to spend some time with my goddaughter and namesake. Anyhow, this doesn’t solve the problem of Claire does it?”
Joan turned to Sharlie. “Any ideas at all?” she asked.
“None at all without placing the whole form under suspicion” replied Sharlie. “Which I do not want to do. Nor do I want to believe that Claire has been so careless of late.”

#545: Author: catherine, Location: York

Posted: Sat Apr 03, 2004 6:51 pm

Glad you've got things fixed up, pim! More please!

#546: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sat Apr 03, 2004 8:03 pm

Nice to see this back again Pim.

#547: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Sun Apr 04, 2004 1:03 am

Just had a marathon session reading all 28 pages in 1 go - whew
Wonderful and PLEASE can we have some MORE now you've got hold of a nice shiny laptop typing

#548: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sun Apr 04, 2004 1:54 am

Thanks Pim, I didn't see the last bit you posted before you went on holiday so that was a lovely bonus.
I'm glad you've acquired a laptop, it means we can expect more sonn, yes?

#549: Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Sun Apr 04, 2004 2:01 am

Hooray for laptops! I never thought I'd love a story that saw Kathie happily married, but....

#550: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Apr 04, 2004 10:02 am

Yay for laptops indeed! And for pim's dad bringing one home. That does mean we get lots, doesn't it Pim? You wouldn't want to waste his effort would you Twisted Evil

#551: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Sun Apr 04, 2004 3:56 pm

*eyes Pim hopefully*

#552: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Sun Apr 04, 2004 5:17 pm

Right, I'll try for about the seventh time to post this, stupid dodgy temperamental dial up connection keeps throwing me off Crying or Very sad

Plus I have been spectacularly defeated by my own stupidity once again and lost my memory stick which has all my drabble and uni work on it - the floppy disk only has essential bits Crying or Very sad

Madge spotted Laura the moment she stepped down from the train. “Laura!” she called, heading over to meet her.
Laura turned to face Madge. “Oh Madge, how lovely to see you again.”
Madge smiled. “I’m glad you could come.”
“The children weren’t too happy about me not being with them for the weekend, but they understand. Does he know?”
“That you’re coming? He has no idea.”

Madge and Laura made their way into the Round House to go and find Jem. He was, as ever, in his study. Madge poked her head round the door.

“Jem, we’ve got a visitor. You’d better come downstairs, if only for politeness’ sake.”

Jem sighed and followed Madge downstairs, not really in the right frame of mind to be receiving visitors but he knew that he didn’t dare question Madge at the moment. As they entered the sitting room he noticed the woman gazing out of the window, her back to them. He noticed her hair first, a familiar colour Of course, the same as Nell’s had been all those years ago. Jem felt a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach.

“Laura” said Madge. “Allow me to present my husband Jem to you.”

The woman turned around to face Jem, he looked at her for a moment. Then realisation dawned on him.

“I think I’ll leave you two alone” said Madge as she slipped out of the room.

#553: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Sun Apr 04, 2004 5:20 pm

Oooooh!!!
*settles down to watch the pretty fireworks*

#554: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Sun Apr 04, 2004 6:15 pm

Fireworks indeed!

#555: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Sun Apr 04, 2004 8:48 pm

Well done Madge!

Now come on Jem...be sensible for once.

#556: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sun Apr 04, 2004 9:07 pm

Yes? And what is he dgoing to say? Is he going to accept her as his daughter?
Great respect for Madge, BTW, if I was her I'm not sure that allow Laura into the house, never mind invite her.

#557: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Apr 04, 2004 10:56 pm

Why not Ellie? The affair with Nell was over long before she and Jem met, and in any case Laura's not to blame for it.

Pim, lovely post - hope you find your memory thingy!

#558: Author: Kathryn, Location: Melbourne/Hamilton until 11 September

Posted: Sun Apr 04, 2004 11:33 pm

Carolyn P wrote:

Now come on Jem...be sensible for once.

You think that'll be possible for him? But then again stranger things have happened!

#559: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Apr 05, 2004 9:19 am

Pim, where are all the pretty fireworks? It's cruel to leave it there!

#560: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Mon Apr 05, 2004 12:34 pm

I think Jem showed signs earlier of possibly being ready to accept Laura. We'll have to see if I'm right.

#561: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Mon Apr 05, 2004 4:02 pm

Glad you enjoyed your holiday Pim, and that your dad got you a laptop so you can continue your drabble. Hope yuo find the memory stick soon, as I would like more soon.

#562: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Apr 05, 2004 4:53 pm

So would I. More, more, more.

#563: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Mon Apr 05, 2004 9:24 pm

*dances about happily* Found it! *ahem, koff koff* where I left it... Embarassed

So here you go... *lights the pretty fireworks*

Laura crossed the room and offered her hand to Jem. “Laura Cartwright,” she said as he shook it. “Nell Wilson’s daughter.”
Jem regarded Laura for a moment. “How nice for you,” he said emotionlessly.

There was a silence, awkward and stony as father and daughter stared at each other. Jem was in turmoil, his heart told him that Nell had been honest with him and that Laura was his daughter; but his head told him to stick by his initial guns that she couldn’t possibly be who she claimed to be. Yet what other explanation could there be for this woman who had unmistakenly inherited his jaw, his nose and his eyes? Laura felt sad as she realised that even a forced confrontation could not force Jem to accept what everyone else believed to be the truth.

“You still don’t believe her, do you?” asked Laura quietly.
“Laura, wait I never said…”
“You didn’t have to, it’s written all over your face. Acceptance, that’s all I ask from you; I don’t want you to be my father or anything like that. I just want you to accept the truth, but it’s obvious that you can’t even when it’s pushed under your nose like this.”
“And just what is the truth? You’re willing to believe every story Nell waves in front of you, how can you be so sure that she’s telling the truth?”
“The truth is that you’re my father,” shouted Laura. “I can’t help it if you won’t accept the facts. I can see why Nell wouldn’t stay with you; she was far too good for you.”
Jem scoffed. “She made all the decisions Laura, she never once consulted me. That leads me to think that maybe, just maybe, she knew that I wasn’t your father. She decided your future without once thinking about how it would affect me.”
“Oh don’t talk rubbish. It all adds up, the dates and everything. Nell made the decision to have me adopted because she knew that she couldn’t face a lifetime’s punishment with you to make up for one moment’s stupidity. Do you know how much she hated you by the end? I’m glad I was adopted; far better to be brought up by two parents who loved each other and really wanted me than to be brought up by two parents who were only together because of me. Nell made the right choice.”
Jem felt as though Laura had just kicked him. “If that’s the way you feel.”
“Yes it is, and I’m not sorry. I was never going to trace my birth parents; it felt as though I was letting my adoptive parents down. But I’m glad I traced Nell; I don’t see her as my mother, but the relationship we’ve managed to form now is something different, something unique. She’s an amazing woman, and so for that matter is Madge. I don’t think you appreciate how lucky you are to have Madge. I’m very fond of her.”
“She’s very fond of you too.”
“I’m not asking a lot of you,” said Laura quietly. “I just want you to accept me. We never have to speak to each other or see each other again after this; but I need your acceptance so I can try and work out who I am.”
“I accept you,” whispered Jem.

There was a moment of mutual understanding, of realisation between the two. In that moment they knew that their paths would probably never cross again but their path that had once crossed in the past was now clearly marked.

#564: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Mon Apr 05, 2004 9:26 pm

That was lovely Pim. I had fears for Jem there for a while, but he seems to have at least given Laura what she needed from him.

#565: Author: Chickpea,

Posted: Mon Apr 05, 2004 9:26 pm

Yay! Go Laura!

Thank you Pim, that was excellent!

#566: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Apr 05, 2004 9:30 pm

Thank you, Pim. that was really touching.

#567: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Apr 05, 2004 9:33 pm

A - M - A - Z - I -N - G Exclamation

That was so good! Jem, being Jem, has probably gone as far as he can with respect to Laura - but think how good it was for his soul Laughing

And Madge has the upper hand and has woken up to his faults Yay for Madge!

More, more, more!

#568: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Apr 05, 2004 11:02 pm

Thank you Pim, glad that Laura pushed for that, hope she can sort out any lingering issues she has - love her relationship with Nell.

Go Madge!

#569: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2004 12:58 am

Pim that was really lovely and well woth the wait. Looking forward to the next part.

#570: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2004 2:01 am

Pim, that was wonderful! Thank you!

#571: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2004 3:36 am

*impressed by Laura*

*gives Jem's feeble little conscience an encouraging pat*

#572: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2004 12:03 pm

Glad to see that Laura is far more mature than Jem and has a stronger grasp on reality.

#573: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2004 1:59 pm

I'm glad Jem has accepted Laura, but I do feel sad he seems to have ruled out any relationship with her in the future.

#574: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2004 4:28 pm

His loss, and dare I say it, her gain.

#575: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2004 6:09 pm

OK, tonight's bit... In fact I had the worst dream about this drabble last night... *wibbles* I'll tell you all about it when I'm a little less traumatised

“How’s the term going so far Sharlie?” asked Rosalie Dene the following Monday morning when she had come to collect some correspondence.
“Oh not bad” shrugged Sharlie in reply. “Apart from Cecil’s ‘poking game’ incident, and the day of mishaps my form decided to have last week, not to mention Claire contriving to lose practically everything she owns at some point or another. I just hope that last week doesn’t set the stage for the rest of term as far as that lot are concerned.”
Rosalie laughed. “You poor thing. Hopefully it was just a blip and things will start to get better now.”
“I hope you’re right.”
“No trouble from Caroline Webster yet?”
“No. But look here Rosalie, what’s the yarn with that kid? She seems to have had some sort of a stance against the school since she got here last year.”
“There’s not much to tell really. Her father died a few years back, and when her mother remarried, Caroline’s stepfather wasn’t too keen on having the kid around so they packed her off to us, poor thing. There’s shades of Grizel Cochrane, or rather Sheppard, there.”
Sharlie nodded thoughtfully. “That would go some way to explaining her attitude towards the school, but not at all why she seems to have taken against Claire in the way that she has.”
“Jealousy? Claire settled in here so easily, found her feet and a good group of friends.”
“Well I thought that at first, but now I’m not so sure. What I do know is that it can’t be healthy for a girl of Caroline’s age to be acting in this way. And Claire’s still such a kid, even after everything that mother of hers put her through last year.”
Rosalie eyed Sharlie carefully. “How much do you know about Claire?”
“Everything” replied Sharlie quickly. “And I’m assuming you do too.” Rosalie nodded in reply. “Doesn’t solve any of my problems though does it? I suppose short of being on my toes constantly with that lot there’s not much I can do. Especially as a real bunch of monkeys seem to have been moved up from Upper II, including Polly McKendrick. I hoped being Form Prefect would shake her up, but no, it only seems to have sharpened her instinct for mischief!”
Rosalie chuckled. “I can only wish you luck! How glad I am it’s not me!”

The week passed by slowly which meant that everybody was glad when Friday came around even if it was a German day. Claire had had a better week as far as keeping track of her things was concerned and had put it down to general forgetfulness on her part. There were, however, a few people who didn’t agree with Claire’s edict and one of these got hold of Polly and Cecil that evening.

“Polly, can I talk to you?” It was Emma Ritchie, Caroline’s partner in crime. Polly glanced awkwardly at Cecil. “I should probably tell Cecil too.”
Cecil shrugged. “Okay shoot, only make it snappy or we’ll all be in hot water for speaking English.”
Emma looked pointedly at Polly. “I think Caro’s behind Claire’s stuff going missing.” Cecil arched an eyebrow, a trick she had acquired from her mother. “She was saying at the beginning of term that Claire needed taking down a peg or two…” Emma trailed off.
“Look Emma” said Polly. “Claire’s put it down to her own untidiness and forgetfulness, besides it’s only happened twice this week. I don’t really think Caro would want you casting aspersions like this.”
“I know you and Amelia have pulled your socks up this term” interrupted Cecil. “But maybe you should be encouraging Caro to do the same.”
Emma gaped open mouthed at the two of them. “Fine” she said, turned on her heel and walked off.
“What do you think?” asked Polly.
“It’s a possibility” replied Cecil. “But we’ve no evidence, just Emma’s suspicions. I think we need to keep our eyes and ears open.”

#576: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2004 6:21 pm

Thanks for those two parts Pim, I'm so glad that Jem finally made the right decision - I do hope he and Madge can now rebuild their relationship.

When Sharlie said she knew everything about Claire, did she really mean she everything, or just everything she thinks there is to know?
I'm glad that Caro's friends have got past the stage of following her lead blindly, and I hope that Claire's friends will be looking out for her even more now.

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

Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2004 8:31 pm

Yay lots of drabble to catch up on! Laughing

It's all great Pim!

#578: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2004 8:37 pm

Thank you Pim - hope the dream isn't a taste of things to come on this drabble!

#579: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2004 9:19 pm

*chanting in Pim's direction*

#580: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Apr 07, 2004 2:08 pm

Thank you Pim. Another lovely part of story. Also wondering if Sharlie knows 'everything'?

Eagerly awaiting developments between Claire and her form mates. (which is another way of saying I want more!)

#581: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Wed Apr 07, 2004 4:03 pm

Pim i just caught up and this is as good as ever more soon i hope Smile

#582: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Wed Apr 07, 2004 9:20 pm

*trips up on the way in here* Popsicle's puter keeps throwing me off Crying or Very sad

Oooooooh, and I named the Bunny at long last - it's name is Charley as it's still of indeterminate gender Confused

Feeling a little less traumatised by the dream, decided I can save it for after I finished the drabble - when I wrote it down it was quite amoozing *g*

My dear Jo,

I’m sorry this letter has been a long time in coming but there was so much Jem and I needed to deal with before I spoke to you at any length. I’ve sensed a change between us these last few weeks, and it is a change for the better. We’ve finally spoken properly about the direction in which our lives are going and we’ve both been guilty of being blasé about things of late, just existing and not wanting to confront the holes in our relationships with each other and with the children. David cabled last week, he will be coming home for Christmas this year which will give me the chance to build bridges with him. I’ve written to Sybil and Josette as well, but I don’t know when I’ll hear from them. How did I let myself drift so far from my children Jo? It’s taken me so long to realise how selfish I was in my relationship with them, especially the girls. I can only hope that it’s not too late to try and repair the damage that I’ve caused.

Jem has finally come round about Laura. I did the only thing I could think of and forced a confrontation between them, Laura knew I was going to do it. They’ve reached an uneasy compromise. Jem accepts Laura as his daughter and that Nell was telling the truth but their relationship ends there, for the moment anyway. Laura seems happy enough about it, she says she only wanted him to accept her as his. Maybe in time they will have something more, I don’t know, it’s not for me to decide. Still Laura and I will continue to stay in touch; I am very fond of her after all Jo.

In many ways I’m glad that this has all come out into the open, the whole situation has made me assess my life and I’ve realised where I need to try and improve things. I’ll write again soon to update you on things, in the meantime I hope that you, Jack and the children are all well.

Your loving sister, Madge.

Dear Nell.

This letter is one of the hardest I’ve ever written. I want to apologise for the way I behaved when you told me about Laura. I’m sorry I didn’t believe you, it all came as such a shock to me. I think, in a way, that I was angry with you for having never told me and deciding our child’s future by yourself. I know you weren’t happy with me towards the end but we could have worked something out together if you had only told me. Can you imagine how different things would be now if you’d told me? However, finding out like this has been, oddly enough, a good thing for Madge and I. It’s helped us see where the holes are and now we can try to sort our problems. For that I suppose I should be thanking you. Laura and I have agreed to remain at an ‘acceptance’ stage for the time being. I don’t know where we’ll go from here, maybe nowhere, maybe somewhere. But now is not the right time to be making these sorts of decisions. I know she’s still hurting over the death of her adoptive parents. In the meantime I know that you two have established a relationship that obviously means a lot to you both and I hope that this will continue.

Yours, Jem.

#583: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Apr 07, 2004 9:35 pm

I'm so glad that Madge is more her old self. I wonder if EBD's plot bunnies made Madge turn into a 'sweet Lady Maynard' and she couldn't overcome them? When drabblers talk about how their characters do things they don't want them too, I do wonder.

I'm glad your plot bunnie let you restore Madge to her rightful self, Pim.

#584: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Wed Apr 07, 2004 10:07 pm

Nice one Pim.

Good to see people being sensible

#585: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Wed Apr 07, 2004 10:39 pm

Thank you Pim!!! Another lovely post! And hello Charley!!!

#586: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Apr 07, 2004 11:15 pm

Thanks Pim - so nice to see Madge taking control and Jem growing up!

Please pat Charley for me!

#587: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Thu Apr 08, 2004 12:50 am

*offers Charley a carrot*
Thanks for those bits pim (just catching up, it takes forever when you go away!) I'm so glad to see Madge back to her old self and Jem actually accepting Laura and even apologising to Nell. Now lets just see how Claire and Caro are getting on...

#588: Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Thu Apr 08, 2004 2:13 am

So lovely to catch up on all of this. I'm glad Laura and Jem have sorted things out. She really does show him up in matters of maturity. Looking forward to more fun and games with Claire and Caroline *looks hopeful*

#589: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Apr 08, 2004 8:33 am

Lovely post, Pim. It's good to see Madge get some of her old sparkle back.

#590: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Thu Apr 08, 2004 10:25 am

The letters are lovely Pim more soon i hope!

#591: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Thu Apr 08, 2004 1:18 pm

Thanks Pim - lovely! Sends Charley more carrots!

#592: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Thu Apr 08, 2004 10:07 pm

Excellent Pim, glad that Madge & Jem are managing to work things out, and I'm pleased that Jem was gracious enough to apologise to Nell.

#593: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Fri Apr 09, 2004 6:51 pm

Today's bit... Charely says thank you very much for all the carrots and pats and things. I'm worried about him beinga bit spoilt now, he's starting to bite a little too much... Confused

Claire was having a bad morning, she’d managed to put a hole in her stocking and pull two buttons off her blouse whilst getting dressed and now she couldn’t find anything she needed for her lessons that morning, with the exception of her French prep, which was now covered in inkblots.

“Come on Claire” urged Léonie from the doorway of the Splashery.
“I can’t find anything Léo,” wailed Claire. “Even I’m not that stupid as to lose all my books for one day. I can only find my French prep and that’s got ink all over it, which I can’t explain I didn’t do it is all I know.” Léonie frowned, it seemed so much more than general carelessness this time, but who would do something so spiteful? “Well I’ll just have to take whatever punishment they decide to throw at me,” declared Claire slamming her locker shut. “I can’t believe it, that’s the first time this week.”

A knock at the door broke Kathie’s thoughts as she eased herself to go up and answer it. She was absolutely exhausted and in no frame of mind for visitors. She ached everywhere and was grateful to Biddy for having taken the twins off her hands for the afternoon. She had no idea who’d be calling on her now, but she supposed it would be polite to find out. She opened the door and got the shock of her life.

“Annabel.”

#594: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Fri Apr 09, 2004 6:53 pm

Uh oh!!!
*wibbles*

#595: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Fri Apr 09, 2004 11:01 pm

Do you think she wants Claire back?

#596: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sat Apr 10, 2004 9:38 am

What a cliff! Thanks Pim!

#597: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Sat Apr 10, 2004 12:41 pm

PIM!

Cliff edge! Warning needed!

*sits down to aviod going right over the edge*

#598: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Apr 10, 2004 12:46 pm

I'll join you on the sofa, Chloe.

#599: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Sat Apr 10, 2004 4:44 pm

*perches precariously on the arm of the sofa!*

#600: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Apr 10, 2004 4:47 pm

Here we are waiting, and Pim hasn't posted more drabble.

Let's start a chant.

#601: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Sat Apr 10, 2004 6:07 pm

Sorry no drabble today Embarassed

I've been packing all afternoon and seem to have *ahem* packed the drabble...

#602: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Sat Apr 10, 2004 6:07 pm

What more cliffs! I think Charley really might be getting carried away! Thanks for the new bit pi, I think Confused

#603: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Sat Apr 10, 2004 6:18 pm

Are you off back to uni already Pim?

#604: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2004 1:57 pm

Yay, back to the (relative) sanity of St Andrews, my lovely shiny puter, and my lovely wonderfully fast and shiny internet connection. So here's some more drabble!

“Kathie, I’m sorry to just show up like this. But I need to talk to you, it’s important.”
“It better had be” returned Kathie as she shut the door behind Annabel. “You’re lucky I’m in on my own.”
“It’s not good news I’m afraid,” said Annabel as they sat down.
“Is it about Claire?”
“Well it concerns Claire.” Annabel paused. “Nick’s dead.”
Kathie gasped. “When?”
“Last Monday.”
“Why didn’t you let us know before now? You could have telephoned, or cabled, or written.”
“Kathie please don’t be mad at me, I haven’t been able to think straight since he died. I had our children to consider as well, besides I thought it would be better if I came and told you face to face. It was so unexpected I’m finding it hard to accept.”
“What happened?”
“He fell off the house roof, he and a friend were looking at the roofing tiles. He died from his injuries. The funeral was last Friday, I didn’t feel that I could leave Bobby and Jane until now, it’s been so hard on them.”
Kathie felt as though someone had just smacked her across the face. “What about Claire? She’s just as much Nick’s child as Bobby and Jane. Did you not think she had a right to know?” Kathie broke off as a wave of nausea passed over her; she ran into the kitchen and proceeded to be elegantly sick into the sink
“I’m sorry,” said Annabel as she appeared behind her, laying her hand on Kathie’s shoulder.
Kathie pushed her hair out of her eyes. “I can’t blame you for this, I’ve been feeling this rough for a few weeks now.” As she rinsed her face the situation hit her suddenly. Nick was dead. The first man she’d ever fallen in love with, the father of her daughter. “Oh God” she whispered, clapping a hand to her mouth as the tears formed in her eyes. “I can’t believe it.” She turned to Annabel. “Tell me it’s not true” she whispered, almost pleading.
Annabel shook her head sadly. “I’m sorry,” she said quietly. “I wish it wasn’t so.”

There was a moment of mutual understanding between the two women, a moment of shared grief, finding comfort in each other’s arms, grieving for the man they had both loved.

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

Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2004 2:08 pm

Oh I don't know what to say! Poor Kathie, Poor Claire! Evil Annabel for not telling Claire sooner, she had a right to know and go to her own Father's funeral!
Question: Did Claire and Nick have a good relationship or not?
*Am jealous of your uni connection I have to wait another week for my 24 hour access to the CBB*

#606: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2004 2:11 pm

Oh no! I didn't expect that to happen! As if Claire needs any more unhappiness.
It would have been better, of course, if Annabelle had told them earlier, but I suppose I can see that it has been a difficult time for her too.

#607: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2004 5:30 pm

Look! Title! Title! *bounces* I was inspired!!!!!

#608: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2004 5:53 pm

Thanks Pim for the latest post.

Like the title! Very Happy

#609: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2004 7:32 pm

Thanks Pim. That was a great reaction, and a totally inexpexcted development.

#610: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2004 7:54 pm

Poor Annabel, Poor Kathie, Poor Claire.

Good title, though Pim!

With shiny pc, shiny 24 hr connection, that means MORE!

Hooray!

#611: Author: catherine, Location: York

Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2004 8:50 pm

Poor Kathie and Claire. Poor Annabel, Bobby and Jane too!

Love the title Pim - very good choice.

More please!

#612: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2004 9:11 pm

Nice title pim!

*huggles all of pim's characters*
Totally unexpected but then I suppose accidents like that always are. Crying or Very sad

#613: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2004 9:24 pm

I like the title, Pim. Poor Kathie, poor Claire.

#614: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2004 10:00 pm

Oooooooooooooh!!!!
Love the shiny title Pim!!
More story please!!!

#615: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2004 10:48 pm

More, since I'm phenomenally bored and have nothing else to do, except go to bed.

The third form common room had descended into its usual chaos, but with a more nasty air to it than usual. Claire, feeling sore over everything that had gone wrong that morning, had snapped at Polly who’d promptly snapped back. It hadn’t taken long for both forms to become embroiled in the argument whilst at the same time trying to work out just why they were having it. They had resorted to shouting to make themselves heard and it had become a positive babble of English, French, German, Spanish, Italian and Finnish as they all resorted to their mother tongues. Emma and Caroline had resorted to pulling each other’s hair as Emma had accused her friend of being responsible for Claire’s missing possessions. Polly and Léonie were trying to break up the fight and Cecil was trying to create some sort of order. It was upon this scene that Sam Davis, the Head Girl, stumbled along with her Second, Althea Glenyon, and Games Captain Val Pertwee.

“What is going on here?” asked Sam in her iciest tones. The room instantly fell silent as everyone looked uncomfortable. “Cecil, Polly, perhaps you’d care to explain.”
“Well… we… um…”

Cecil got no further as there was a knock at the door and her sister Felicity poker her head around it.

“I’m sorry Sam,” she said. “But Miss Annersley wants to see Claire Fisher in her study right away.”
“Very well then. Claire go with Felicity, I’ll talk to you later.”

Claire scurried off, quaking in her shoes as to why she had been called to the Head’s study.

#616: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2004 11:24 pm

I know that sort of fight, horrible when nobody quite knows why it's happening. I hope they all rally round when they hear the news, for Claire's sake.

*hugs Claire tightly*

#617: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 1:43 am

Poor Claire. Bad, bad day and getting worse.

#618: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 9:01 am

I sounds as if they need a dose of something! Poor Claire though.

#619: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 9:23 am

Bet Claire will wish herself back in the Third Form common room rather than have to hear the news Hilda has for her!

More please Pim.

#620: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 11:40 am

Feeling very sorry for Claire, hope Caroline leaves her alone now.
It's horrible knowing what's coming next when she doesn't.

#621: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 4:03 pm

Ho diddly hum, bit for today. Really, anything to avoid writing my presentations and cleaning the house *whistles innocently*

Claire knocked on the study door with a feeling of trepidation.

“Come in” called Miss Annersley’s voice.
Claire crept in and bobbed a curtsey. “You wanted to see me Miss Annersley?”
“You’ve got visitors Claire” said Hilda softly as she stood up and slipped out of the room.
Claire spun around and caught sight of Kathie, and flung herself mercilessly on her mother. “Mum! What are you doing here?”
Kathie disentangled herself from Claire. “I’ve got some bad news I’m afraid.”
Claire suddenly noticed Annabel sitting in the chair next to Kathie. “What’s she doing here?” she demanded. “I’m not going back to England.”
Kathie pulled Claire gently on to her knee. “Claire darling, your father’s dead.”
Claire looked between the two of them. “And? Am I supposed to care? Because I don’t.”
“Claire” snapped Kathie.
“Well it’s true. He didn’t care about me, he didn’t even like me so I don’t see why I should care that he’s died.”
“He was your father Claire.”
“Some father. Uncle Peter’s done more for me in the last year than he ever did.” Claire looked pointedly at Annabel. “And as for her, I’m glad she wasn’t my real mum.” Claire slid of Kathie’s knee. “I’m not sorry. But mum, it does mean that I can stay with you and Uncle Peter forever though doesn’t it?”
Kathie nodded. “Miss Annersley’s given leave for me to take you home until Monday; we’ll be better talking about things there. We’ll go and find Matron so you can get your things together.”

#622: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 4:18 pm

Still feeing very sorry for Claire, no wonder the poor kid is all mixed up.
I hope Annabelle doesn't have any dastardly plans afoot to take her back again.

#623: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 6:14 pm

Well I suppose it's an understandable reaction but still... poor Kathie having to hear her daughter say that about her first love and poor poor Annabel.

Thanks for the more though pim.

#624: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 7:27 pm

Poor Claire, what a shock. I suppose her reaction is undestandable considering what had happened to her.

#625: Author: catherine, Location: York

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 7:29 pm

Thanks pim. Please can we hae some more?

#626: Author: Nina, Location: Peterborough, UK

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 7:58 pm

Wow Pim, I don't know how I missed this earlier - just read it all the way through Very Happy

it's really good!

#627: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 9:41 pm

catherine wrote:

Thanks pim. Please can we hae some more?

Can you or may you Catherine? *chuckles wickedly*

#628: Author: catherine, Location: York

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 9:48 pm

GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

Please Pim, MAY we have some more? Twisted Evil

#629: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 10:01 pm

You may indeed. Tomorrow. Twisted Evil

#630: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2004 10:08 pm

Oooh! Thank you Pim! More please!!

#631: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Tue Apr 13, 2004 12:42 am

Well it's now tomorrow... *g* So I s'pose you can have the new bit now... but don't blame me if it's tomorrow when you get the next bit.

Kathie slipped quietly out of Claire’s room later that night and found Peter waiting for her on the landing.

“Did you manage to get Claire to sleep?”
Kathie nodded. “It was hard though, poor thing nearly cried herself to sleep. I think she’s more upset about Nick than she’s letting on.”
“What about you?”
Kathie shrugged. “I don’t know. I’m not really sure what I feel right now,” she said burying her head in Peter’s shoulder as he put his arms around her.
“You don’t look too good. You really need to get yourself checked over by a doctor.”
“I’m just tired.”
“I’m worried about you.”
Kathie looked up into his eyes. “Don’t be,” she whispered as she kissed him gently. “I should go and talk to Annabel.”

Kathie pulled away from Peter and headed downstairs where she found Annabel curled up in a chair reading. She looked up as Kathie entered and flopped down on to the sofa.

“How’s Claire?” asked Annabel.
“More upset than she’s letting on. She nearly cried herself to sleep.”
“Oh.”
“Oh indeed. Did you not think Annabel, that just turning up like this would be bound to upset her? It’s taken a long time for Claire to settle, to finally feel that she belongs here as part of our family; and then you go and show up like this and confuse her all over again. I can’t believe you’d be so insensitive, wait, I can.”
“Kathie I didn’t mean to…”
“No, I don’t want to hear anymore Annabel. You never mean to do anything, or so you say. But you promised that you’d take Claire, that she’s be your responsibility, and to think I believed you.”
“Kathie please…”
“No, don’t even talk. I’m too angry with you. The least you could have done was to let us know about Nick before you showed up like this. Did it not even cross your mind how this would affect Claire? You have no idea how much I regret agreeing to you and Nick bringing her up.”
“What else would you have done Kathie?”
“She’d have been adopted, with parents who really wanted a child of their own for all the right reasons rather than as a sick form of revenge. I love Claire more than anything and I would have done whatever I had to in order to ensure that she was happy, I would gladly give my life for her, do you know what I mean?”
Annabel stared open mouthed at Kathie; this had certainly never crossed her mind. “But why did you take the job out here?”
“Because I couldn’t stand to see you and Nick bring her up as your own knowing that she was mine. Do you know how much that hurt me? It cut like a knife to hear her calling you mother, knowing that was my place. I had to get away to escape the pain I felt.” Kathie paused to brush the tears out of her eyes. “And now you show up with no warning to tell me that Nick’s dead, in the same manner as when you left Claire with us, and now I just don’t know what to think.”
“I think that anything else should be settled by our lawyers,” said Peter who had suddenly entered the room. “I’m not sure either of you are in any fit state to deal with this. Anyway Kathie, Claire’s asking for you.”

Claire was sitting up in bed when Kathie entered her room. “Mum.”
“What’s the matter darling?” she asked perching on the edge of Claire’s bed.
“I don’t know; it’s all so confusing.”
Kathie stroked Claire’s hair. “You’re allowed to be confused.”
“What’s going to happen to me?”
“I’ve told you Claire. You’ll stay her with us, you’re ours remember. You mean the world to me, and I don’t intend you to be anywhere, except here with us. You have no idea how precious you are.”

Claire bit her lip and tried hard not to cry as Kathie took her in her arms, knowing that she never intended to let Claire go again.

#632: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Tue Apr 13, 2004 5:26 am

Hears someone mutter "Good riddance to bad rubbish" as Annabel stalks off.

#633: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Apr 13, 2004 9:34 am

Hisses as she leaves the room.

#634: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Tue Apr 13, 2004 3:55 pm

*hopes for more soon!*

#635: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Tue Apr 13, 2004 3:56 pm

yes gets off msn and come and post more....

#636: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Apr 13, 2004 3:59 pm

Feeling extremely sorry for Claire. t least she will be able to stay with Kathie now.

Love the nice new title.

#637: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Tue Apr 13, 2004 8:08 pm

Here's tonights bit, the part Charley and I were arguing about earlier... Yes Charley, it needed writing - but not when you kept biting me!

Annabel left the following morning. Kathie found the note as she cleared up the kitchen later that day.

Dear Kathie,

I’m sorry about the way things have worked out between us. I realise it was wrong of me to not tell you about Nick and just turn up the way I did. I should have told you, if only for Claire’s sake. I know Nick and I didn’t have the best relationship with Claire, but it was difficult for us both. It was hard at first, people talking about Nick and I, about how we’d obviously had to get married because of Claire. That was hard, she wasn’t even mine. I should have never talked Nick into taking Claire on; I think, in a way, I wanted to punish him for cheating on me. He told me about you the day after we got married Kathie, can you imagine what that was like for me? And to find out that you were having his child… You were right, I took Claire on for all the wrong reasons. She was a daily reminder for Nick of what he’d done. I know we went about bringing her up wrong; we shouldn’t have allowed her to get as out of hand as we did. Maybe Claire should have been adopted, but then you wouldn’t have known her at all. I admire the way you and Peter have handled her, she’s a different child and she’s obviously very happy with you. I’m handing over full and official responsibility for Claire to you and Peter; I know it’s the right thing to do. But Kathie, please remember that Nick was her father and she does have family in England who love her dearly, especially her siblings. Please don’t deny Claire the chance to know Nick’s family. I realise that we can never be the friends that we were at university, but we’re both equally to blame for the way things have turned out. I wish you all the best for the future and hope that you and Peter continue to be as happy as you are now. I did try my best to love Claire as my own; but the relationship you and Claire have runs deeper than anything I could possibly aspire to.

Annabel.

Kathie laid the letter back down on the table, feeling slightly happier about things than she had in a long time.

#638: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Tue Apr 13, 2004 8:16 pm

Yay! Thank you Pim!! And Charley!!!

#639: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Tue Apr 13, 2004 9:00 pm

Wow, she did the decent thing! Good, clare deserves that at least.

#640: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Apr 13, 2004 9:24 pm

I think Annabel's explanation makes a lot of sense. She probably wasn't acting rationally when she insisted on taking Claire. She was young, felt cheated, and did it for all the wrong reasons.

Now she is really alone after Nick's death and, oddly enough, I feel quite sorry for her.

Lovely posts Pim and we look forward to more Wink

#641: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Tue Apr 13, 2004 10:56 pm

*takes back nasty crack about Annabel*

well done, Pim.

#642: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Tue Apr 13, 2004 11:17 pm

Thanks Pim, glad that Annabelle doesn't have any plans for Claires future, though like others, I do feel sorry for her, really.
I hope that Claire will be able to settle down and be happy now, and that she doesn't forget her siblings

#643: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Wed Apr 14, 2004 10:26 am

I'm glad Annabel could see sense. Claire should feel more secure now.

#644: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Apr 14, 2004 11:40 am

Thanks for all the lovely posts Pim - and thank Charley for me!

Glad that Annabel has left Claire with Kathie and Peter - think they'll be able to help her

#645: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Apr 14, 2004 3:04 pm

Pim and Charley, thank you for writing more. It is so good that Annabelle didn't want to take Claire away from Kathie. Just wish the truth could come out now without anyone getting hurt. Hope Jo manages to keep her big mouth shut.

#646: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Wed Apr 14, 2004 4:01 pm

Thank you, Pim, that was lovely.

#647: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Wed Apr 14, 2004 6:04 pm

6pm! 6pm!!!!! Okay, who stole my day????!!!!! Actually quite proud of the last post I made of this - just all came out the way I wanted it to Very Happy

Wasn't going to include it but realised I couldn't not let Annabel justify herself (cos I'm a nice person really *ahem*). Anyways, new bit...

It was a somewhat subdued Claire who returned to school the following Monday to be greeted by Polly and Léonie, who were similarly subdued. Following the mini riot that had broken out in the Thirds common room the previous week they had been at the Prefects’ mercy until that morning. Nobody had wanted to drop anyone in anything so the Prefects had never found out the cause of the argument. If the truth be told the Thirds were feeling slightly silly about it all, and on hearing the news about Claire’s father had decided to forget about the whole incident once the weekend was over.

“Gosh I’m glad to be back,” said Claire as they collected their books for the morning’s lessons. “What happened with the Prees after I got called to The Abbess’ study last week?”
Polly stared at Léonie and back to Claire. “Ghastly. They’ve treated us like a bunch of kids ever since. We had to go for plain walks with them instead of games, plus we’ve not been allowed on our own at any point all weekend. But that all stopped today. The staff know what happened, I think. And Sam still wants to talk to you at some point, later today I think. Anyway, we all decided not to talk about it anymore.”
Claire pulled a face. “Think I’d rather have been here.”
“Everything okay Claire?” asked Léonie.
“Why shouldn’t it be?”
“Well your dad just died,” pointed out Polly.
“I know, but it doesn’t make that much difference to me.”
Léonie and Polly exchanged glances. “Well if you ever want to talk…” began Polly uncomfortably.
“No, I don’t think so,” said Claire. “Now, hadn’t we better get to class? You can tell me everything about the weekend on the way, and I suppose we’d better be changing to French. I’m not up for an order mark first thing on a Monday morning, especially as I seem to have all my things together for once.”

Caroline had a slightly uneasy conscience as she saw Claire that morning, knowing that she was the one behind Claire’s things going missing. She knew that she should have owned up the previous week after the argument when the Prees had descended on them; she knew that she should probably own up to Claire now but Caroline’s pride was working against her. Still she knew that she needed to talk to Claire, if only about her father, it couldn’t hurt, after all she knew what it was like. She finally got her chance to talk to Claire after lunch.

“Claire, can I talk to you a moment?” she asked tentatively.
“Yes, of course you can.”
Caroline looked around nervously. “Look, I’m sorry.”
“What for?”
“About your dad.”
“Why should you be? I’m not.”
“I just know what it’s like to lose your dad, that’s all. Mine died a few years back.”
“I didn’t know.”
“Not something I really talk about. My stepfather decided I was a nuisance so I got sent out here to school.”
“Oh.” Claire realised that she and Caroline had a lot more in common than previously thought.
“It’s just, if you ever needed to talk to somebody who knows what it’s like then…”
“Thanks Caro, but I don’t think I’ll need to talk to anyone about this. I don’t think we can ever really be friends either, even though we’ve got this in common.” With those words Claire turned on her heel and went off to join her own particular group having called an uneasy truce.

#648: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Apr 14, 2004 6:28 pm

Hmmm, think Claire could have handled that a little better - possible that caroline will feel snubbed and revert to her old behaviour.

Thanks Pim!

#649: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Apr 14, 2004 6:36 pm

Poor Claire and poor Caroline. I wonder if Caroline's stepfather really feels that way or if she just feels insecure?

It's a shame Claire can't talk to anyone.

#650: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Wed Apr 14, 2004 10:27 pm

Ooooh!!!
Piiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiim!! please don't leave us there!!!

#651: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Thu Apr 15, 2004 12:59 am

Pleased to see Caroline listening to her conscience, hope she doesn't think Claire snubbed her.

#652: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Thu Apr 15, 2004 1:23 am

Well an uneasy truce is better than no truce at all.... right pim?
Confused

#653: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Apr 15, 2004 10:20 am

Come on, Pim, give us some more, it's just hotting up.

#654: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Thu Apr 15, 2004 3:03 pm

I think I agree with Peter and the lawyers should formalise Claire living with him and Kathie.

I can't help feeling Annabel may have something more up her sleeve.

#655: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Thu Apr 15, 2004 7:37 pm

What could Annabel be planning Mandy? I can't imagine she'd want to do anything devious now.

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

Posted: Thu Apr 15, 2004 9:17 pm

Thanks Pim for all the drabble! Am still worried about Claire, though I think I can understand her act of not caring as she thinks that Nick didn't care for her.

#657: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Thu Apr 15, 2004 9:32 pm

Loooooooooonnnnnng post, sorry. Charley was a right pain over this and kept giving it in bits whilst i was on my jollies and didn't realise how long it had got until I got home and typed it up! Told you he was a bully!

“Nell.” Kathie was pleasantly surprised to see Nell at the door that Saturday afternoon.
“I hope you don’t mind me dropping in on you unexpectedly like this” said Nell wriggling out of her outdoor coat.
“No, not at all” replied Kathie quickly. “Let’s go and sit down, I’ll stick the kettle on. I must say, you’ve picked a good time to call.”
“Why’s that?” asked Nell as they entered the salon.
“Peter’s taken the twins out for the afternoon. I can give you my full attention,” grinned Kathie as she slipped into the kitchen to boil the kettle.
“You’ve got him well trained,” said Nell as she sat down.
Kathie giggled. “I wouldn’t call him that, he’s just very good. I’m very lucky to have him,” she added as she sat down opposite Nell.
“You don’t look too fit Kathie,” remarked Nell, surveying her friend’s pale face and dark circled eyes.
“I’ve not been sleeping too well, and I just feel downright uncomfortable and sick a lot. Jack gave me the once over the other week and he said everything’s perfectly normal so I suppose I’ll just have to put up with it. Still, it’s not forever is it?”
“I’m sorry to hear about Claire’s father.”
Kathie shrugged. “It makes thing simpler in a lot of ways it has to be said. I mean she’s definitely ours now. But it was a shock; you can’t just turn off your feelings.”
“Claire seems to be taking it well,” said Nell as Kathie left the room again to make the coffee.
“Better than I thought she would” replied Kathie as she came back in with the tray and poured Nell a coffee. “It was really tough on her. It hurt her more than she let on at first.”
“Kathie, I need to talk to you about something,” announced Nell as Kathie sat back down.
“I thought you might.”
“You know?”
“Nancy told me, but please don’t be mad with her Nell. She thought you might want to talk to me about it eventually and it might be easier if you didn’t have to retell the story. She hasn’t told anybody else, I promise.”
“I’m not angry with her for telling you, as she thought it does make things a bit easier.”
“How did you feel when Laura just turned up like that?”
“Shell shocked. I honestly thought I’d never see her again after she was born.”
“And now?”
“I’m glad she decided to trace me. I know it’s really set the cat amongst the pigeons, but I’d always wondered what became of her; it’s nice knowing.”
“I can’t believe you went through all that on your own. Weren’t you terrified by it all?”
“Well, yes and no. But only because I knew it was the only thing I could do, I had no other choice. I knew I was doing the right thing for both Laura and myself.”
“I don’t know how you coped. I was absolutely petrified with Claire, and I had Annabel and Nick. Although, that may have been more of a hindrance than a help.”
“I wasn’t completely on my own though Kathie. My best friend at university, Susanna, knew and then I went to an unmarried mothers’ home. There were three of us who arrive at the same time, myself, Clem and Elizabeth – who we all called Izbet. We all had our babies within three days of each other, Clem first, me two days later and Izbet the day after that. We were all so close, we shared everything in those months that we were together. Izbet was a dreamer, always convinced that her baby’s father would come back and marry her so they could bring the baby up together. She wasn’t strong anyway and she died the day after her baby was born. Clem was the absolute opposite, tough as old boots and realistic with it; the father of her baby was in the army and she knew that they had no chance. I saw Clem once after we left there, but things were different, we’d become different people. I was the only one of the three of us who got to hold their baby; Clem’s little boy was whisked away straight up, and Izbet collapsed and never regained consciousness. Afterwards it was just something I had to put behind me so I could get on with my life.”
Kathie shuddered involuntarily. “There were times when I wished Annabel and Nick hadn’t let me spend time with Claire when she was first born. It made the separation so much harder.”
“When did you tell Peter about Claire?”
“The day after the twins were born. He asked me why I’d cried every time I’d held them, I was such a wreck I told him everything. I cried almost constantly for the first four days; the whole experience brought everything back to me.”
“It changes everything doesn’t it, having a baby?”
“It took me a long time to learn to trust people again, especially men. In fact, since then I’ve only trusted Peter and I don’t know what it was about him. All he did was help us out of a sticky situation on that half term trip to Geneva; I honestly thought I’d never see him again. And then he turned up here.”
“But aren’t you glad he did?”
“Yes I am, very. He’s a million miles away from Nick. At first though, there were times when I couldn’t get Nick out of my head. It’s so hard when you love someone so much to let them go, to let your memories of them go. When came out here I was running away. I couldn’t stand to see Annabel and Nick brining up Claire, my daughter, as their own, it should have been me watching her grow up. I was running away from my jealousy, I’ve never been so relieved as when I got the job offer here. I saw it as a chance to leave my past and my demons behind, a chance to start afresh where people knew nothing about me.”
Nell sighed. “But there’s the difference Kathie, you really loved Nick. Jem, I don’t believe I ever loved him… Well not in the way that you were in love with Nick. I was certainly fond of Jem, and had a lot of affection for him, but love… I don’t believe I’ve ever really loved anybody in that way. Oh don’t look so shocked Kathie, Jem wasn’t the only man to pass through my life, he wasn’t the first and he wasn’t the last.”
Kathie blushed. “I’m sorry Nell, I didn’t mean to…”
“It’s quite alright Kathie. People don’t tend to expect it of me; it’s not something I care to bring up as a rule. But I haven’t always been the moral, upstanding headmistress that I am now,” added Nell with a grin.
“It must have been quite a shock when you joined the school and there was Jem.”
“It was hard at first, but I could hardly run away, could I? It wouldn’t have been fair on Madge; I couldn’t have explained it to her. Jem and I, we only broached the subject of our past once when we first met again; we decided to leave it in the past and not talk about it again. It was the best thing to do; it would have been too awkward otherwise. I could have told him about Laura then, but it seemed pointless. I didn’t want to rake up the past all over again, as far as I’m concerned we made the best decision we possibly could.”
“Did he believe you when you told him?”
Nell shook her head. “He’s accepted it now though; but I’ve got Madge to thank for that rather than myself.”
“There was no point Nick denying it, even though he tried his best, Annabel knew. He swore he’d make me pay; a few weeks before Claire was born he threatened me. I never dreamt that he and Annabel would take their revenge in the way that they did. But I’m glad that they did. I’ve been given a second chance with Claire, you should see it as that for you and Laura, with or without Jem, you should take this chance.”
“You’re right Kathie. You know, when you told us about Claire last summer I began wondering what I’d do if Laura ever turned up – what I’d tell her, especially about Jem. It would have been so much easier to lie to her and make something up about her father, but when it came down to it, I couldn’t. I knew he’d deny it; I just didn’t bank on Madge being so understanding, or Jo for that matter.”
Kathie nodded in agreement. “I don’t know what’s come over Jo lately, she hasn’t been butting in all over the shop like she usually does. I’m not complaining mind you, it’s been quite refreshing.”
Nell smiled. “I think she’s in shock about things at the moment. I’m sure once she comes round, she’ll be back to normal.”
“Oh I hope not, I’m getting quite attached to this new reformed Jo. It’s much easier to reason with her now.”
“I think Jack would agree with you there as well, he’s lost that hunted look he’s been wearing for quite some time. But I have to admit that this whole situation has been a lot easier with Jo being so reasonable. For some reason, I wasn’t worried about how Madge would react, but rather how Jo would when Madge told her.”
“That’s why we’ve never told Jo the truth about Claire and I. Peter let it slip to Jack but he’s promised to keep mum about it, so to speak.”
Nell groaned. “Lovely pun there Kathie.”
“I didn’t even realise. But you know what I mean. The whole thing is hard enough for us without Jo casting her aspersions left, right and centre. I think it’s more than enough that she realises one of us has such a reputation, two of us would probably push her over the edge and then it would be goodbye to reasonable Jo.”
Nell chuckled. “I think you’ve got a very fair point. Poor old Jo, we do give her a lot of stick behind her back.” Nell watched as Kathie shifted herself into a more comfortable position. “You alright?”
Kathie winced. “Yes, just uncomfortable. You know how it is, I can’t sit still for more than about ten minutes these days.”
“I remember it well.”

Kathie smiled at the older woman sitting opposite her. They were bound by a shared experience in their respective pasts; something they probably would never really discuss again. But each of them knew that there was somebody out there who would understand.

#658: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Thu Apr 15, 2004 10:09 pm

A lovely long post and without any of the horrid tension or cliffs of certain other drabbles!! Thanks pim! Nice to see the understanding between Kathie and Nell.

#659: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Thu Apr 15, 2004 10:12 pm

*cries*
First Lesley then you, I'm never going to stop weeping at this rate.

That was so beautiful pim, however bully like Charley gets we appreciate your sacrifice *g*

#660: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Thu Apr 15, 2004 10:12 pm

Aaaaaaaaaaaaw!!!!

Thanks Pim! that was a lovely scene!!!!

#661: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Apr 16, 2004 11:29 am

A really emotional scene, thank you.

#662: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Fri Apr 16, 2004 12:36 pm

that was beautiful pim.

#663: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Apr 16, 2004 3:34 pm

Pim that was really lovely. Glad they were able to talk to each other.

#664: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Fri Apr 16, 2004 3:40 pm

Thank you Pim, glad that they both have each other, knowing that have both been through similar experiences.

#665: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Fri Apr 16, 2004 5:52 pm

Something a little cheerier after the more depressing recent parts. Pleased to report Charley behaved himself in the library today letting the presentation and essay bunnies get a look in (*mentions nothing of the procrastination bunny*).

That same afternoon the Thirds were ripe for mutiny. The rain that had plagued the Platz for the previous few days had finally stopped but it was completely unfit to go out for walks. There was only a few days to go until half term but that was really beside the point. Claire, Polly, Léonie and Bella were engaged in a game of Scrabble, as Miss Andrews had pointed out that their English vocabulary needed expanding and this would be an ideal way of doing it.

“I’ve got an idea,” announced Cecil, appearing at Claire’s shoulder with her own select band of miscreants, Araminta (Minty) Reilly, Louanne Morley, Daphne Bettany and a new Irish girl she was sheepdogging, Caoimhe Murphy. “Something we can all get involved in, using the Scrabble board.”
Claire looked up. “What?”

Cecil rapidly gathered the members of both forms together and announced her plan. It was really quite straightforward. One person would pick the letters out of the bag and they had to make an action from the letters; then everyone would have to do the said action without causing damage to anyone else or anything in the room. It started out easily enough with words like walk, sit and jump. Cecil made the word face and announced that this meant everyone pulling the most awful face they could possibly manage; the results were interesting. Caoimhe created poke from her selection, but mindful of Cecil’s earlier poking game they were careful not to create too much havoc. The havoc came after a good half hour when Léonie came up with hop which Cecil decided would be more fun if they did going round the room. The consequences vaguely resembled a rugby scrum and the wild shrieks the girls produced brought retribution on them from the Prefects. It also involved a trip to Matron for most of them with sundry scrapes and bruises, not to mention damage to various items of clothing. Before the Prefects the Thirds wibbled visibly at the prospect of losing their half term treats, fortunately the Prefects decided to be kind. But their free time would be carefully supervised until half term.

#666: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Fri Apr 16, 2004 5:57 pm

*giggle*
thanks Pim!!!

#667: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Fri Apr 16, 2004 6:47 pm

definitely more cheerful, thanks Pim.

#668: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Fri Apr 16, 2004 6:59 pm

Thank you for some lovely long posts there, Pim!

#669: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Fri Apr 16, 2004 7:37 pm

Lesley's right, they've been lovely long posts pim, thank you (and thanks to Charley too).

I love the idea of the Thirds wibbling in front of the Prefects. If they're like this now goodness knows what will happen as they move into the Fourth form and traditional middle naughtiness!

#670: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Sat Apr 17, 2004 3:15 pm

Dum de dum, a bit more for today. And Sarah, goodness I don't even want to contemplate what that lot would get up to in the fourth!!!!!!

The school had headed off on their various expeditions for half term weekend and Hilda and Nell had headed to England to spend it with Laura and her family. Laura met them both at Stockport station on the Thursday afternoon to drive them to her home on the edge of Derbyshire.

“Nell it’s wonderful to see you again,” said Laura as they hugged. “You too Hilda.”
“Likewise, I must say you’re looking very healthy,” remarked Nell.
Laura smiled coyly. “I’ve got a bit of a secret to let you in on. But be careful what you say, the children don’t know just yet.” Nell raised an eyebrow. “We’re expecting an extension to the family at the beginning of March.”
Nell’s face broke into a broad grin. “Oh that’s simply marvellous news, I’m so happy for you.”
“You must be pleased,” added Hilda.
“Well it certainly wasn’t planned; it was a bit of a shock to us both,” laughed Laura as they loaded the luggage into the car. “But yes, we’re very happy. You’re coming for Christmas both of you, aren’t you?”
“Well we wouldn’t want to impose…” began Nell.
“Rubbish, it wouldn’t be imposing. We all want you there, both of you.”
“In that case…” Nell failed to notice the doubtful expression that flickered across Hilda’s face. “We’d love to.”

#671: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Sat Apr 17, 2004 3:55 pm

Um... why is Hilda doubtful, I see no reason to doubt... all is cheerful I thought.

Confused

Thanks for that bit pim.

#672: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Apr 17, 2004 3:58 pm

uh, oh -- foreshadowing?

#673: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Sat Apr 17, 2004 5:34 pm

What is Hilda worried about?

#674: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Sat Apr 17, 2004 10:47 pm

*feels very nervous*

#675: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sat Apr 17, 2004 11:23 pm

She's probably only doubtful coz she's not 'part' of the family, hope so anyway.

#676: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Sun Apr 18, 2004 9:58 am

Here's some more, there may be another bit later on as I appear to have messed up the number of parts I've got left with my date schedule for posting them, ho hum...

“Here we are” announced Laura as they walked up the drive to her house and entered. “Just leave your bags in the hall, we’ll sort them out later.”

Sam appeared at the foot of the stairs as they laid down the cases. He made a beeline for Nell and offered out his hand.

“You must be Nell,” he said as Nell shook his hand. “There’s something about you that’s written all over Laura. And it’s wonderful to meet you finally, I’ve heard so much about you.” He turned to Hilda. “And you must be Hilda, I’ve heard a lot about you as well.”
Hilda laughed as she shook his hand. “Only good things I hope.”
“Sam, where are the children?” asked Laura suddenly.
“Sitting room,” he replied.

Laura pushed open the door and Nell followed her in, leaving Hilda and Sam out in the hall.

“Not going in?” he asked.
“I want Nell to have the first moments alone with them.”

“Elizabeth, Patrick, William” said Laura. The three children sitting on the sofa turned to see their mother and another woman. “This is Nell, my real mother.”

The four of them exchanged unsure glances in an awkward silence, broken by William who suddenly leapt up and threw himself at Nell, flinging his arms around her.

“Hello Granny Nell” he said.
Nell felt a rush of warmth as she looked down on her youngest grandson. “Hello William.”

Patrick followed William’s lead, and was tentatively followed by Elizabeth. Holding on to her three young grandchildren Nell felt a sense of peace that she hadn’t known in a long time.

#677: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Apr 18, 2004 2:18 pm

There's only one thing to say. 'Aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

#678: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Sun Apr 18, 2004 2:32 pm

How lovely. Hope it all works out all right for them.

#679: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Sun Apr 18, 2004 3:40 pm

Awww. It's so sweet. Now lets see Hilda greeted by them too (very Hildaish thing to do letting Nell go in first Very Happy

)

#680: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Apr 18, 2004 4:10 pm

Awwwwww! Hope all remains well. Little worried by Hilda's expression when mentioning Christmas - but perhaps she was just worried about how they'd react to Nell.

(Hope so!)

More please Pim!

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

Posted: Sun Apr 18, 2004 6:20 pm

Awww it's all so lovely that everyone is getting along! More soon though please Very Happy

#682: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sun Apr 18, 2004 6:56 pm

Lovely, feeling all nice and warm inside.

#683: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Sun Apr 18, 2004 7:26 pm

The next wee bit as promised.

The evening had passed in an enjoyable manner. Laura’s children had taken instantly to both Nell and Hilda, the boys more so to Nell and Elizabeth had latched on to Hilda. As the evening wore on Hilda had retired to the kitchen to try and catch up on some letter writing before she went to bed. In part because it needed doing, in part because there was a niggling feeling that she couldn’t quite shift. Laura had also sensed Hilda’s niggling feeling and left Nell and Sam discussing some obscure cricketing rule.

“Hilda.”
Hilda looked up from the letter she was tackling. “Laura.”
Laura sat down in the chair beside Hilda. “I’m sorry.”
“What for?”
“For all this. I can’t begin to imagine how hard this must be for you to suddenly have to come to terms with. I know how much you and Nell mean to each other and there is no way that I want to come between you. Hilda, both Sam and I want you to feel that you have a home here with us and that you are as much a part of this family as Nell. You’re one of the most amazing women I’ve ever met, and you’ve been so supportive to both Nell and I that I wouldn’t know where to begin to thank you. Besides, the children are very taken with you as well, especially Elizabeth.” Laura paused. “Hilda, Sam and I want you to be Godmother to this baby when it arrives.” Their eyes met for a moment and Hilda felt any niggling doubts she’d had over the situation fading away. “What do you say Auntie Hilda?” asked Laura with a wicked twinkle in her eye.
Hilda reached for Laura’s hand. “Yes, I would love to be. And Laura, thank you, this means a lot to me.”
“I mean it Hilda. I don’t ever want you to feel that you’re not wanted here, because you are.”

#684: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Apr 18, 2004 7:36 pm

(That's happy tears!!)

Hoped it would be something like that - only natural that Hilda should feel maybe a little left out - Laura is wonderful - a credit to both her real mother and her adoptive parents.

Thanks Pim!

#685: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Sun Apr 18, 2004 8:21 pm

That's lovely.Thank you Pim.

#686: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Sun Apr 18, 2004 9:45 pm

*wipes eyes*
That is a beautiful gesture by Laura and Sam.
Thank you pim.

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

Posted: Sun Apr 18, 2004 9:52 pm

Laura is so nice!
More soon please!

#688: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Mon Apr 19, 2004 1:15 am

Pim, that was sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo sweet!
More soon please!!!

#689: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Mon Apr 19, 2004 1:17 am

Laura is amazing!
Thanks, Pim.

#690: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Mon Apr 19, 2004 9:43 am

Aww this is so lovely. Glad they are all getting on so well, and that both Nell and Hilda have been accepted by Laura's family.

Poor Hilda she must have been wondering if she was going to be pushed out for Nell's new relations, so nice that Laura was able to reassure her.

#691: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Apr 19, 2004 1:25 pm

Such a lovely thought from Laura.

#692: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Mon Apr 19, 2004 1:50 pm

That was a lovely gesture from Laura, I'm glad that she has taken time to consider Hilda

#693: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Mon Apr 19, 2004 4:46 pm

Today's bit, another aside-y type bit.

Two weeks had passed since half term, two rather peaceful weeks in fact. The staff were suspicious, knowing only too well it couldn’t last. The bad weather had begun in earnest and they had all been housebound for the previous four days and ‘itchy feet’ syndrome was beginning that Saturday afternoon.

“I’m so bored,” announced Cecil Maynard to her select band of followers.
“Well what do you propose we do then?” demanded Caoimhe Murphy, a regular imp from Cork who had been new that term and soon settled under Cecil’s wing.
“I don’t know,” said Cecil with a huge sigh. “Daphne, Louanne, Minty, any ideas?” Her comrades shook their heads. “The only problem is that we need to do something really original; I was looking through ‘Legends’ the other day and everything seems to have been done. I don’t want to go recycling anything; especially if my mother did it in the first instance.”
Daphne raised an eyebrow. “Well if you’re after anything Auntie Jo hasn’t done then we’ll be hard pushed to find anything, won’t we?”
“Well if you lot are going to be worse than useless, I’ll go and ask Claire and her crew if they’ve got any ideas.”

Cecil’s friends watched as she walked off; muttered a few words to Claire and returned followed by Claire, Polly, Léonie, Bella Deglan and Joëlle.

“I just wish we could go out,” sighed Polly as she flopped down into the nearest chair. “It’s absolutely sickening being stuck indoors. But it’ll be fun to be able to go out and ski when it eventually stops.”
“Skiing!” exclaimed Cecil as her eyes lit up. “I do believe you’ve hit the nail on the head there Polly.”
“What on earth do you mean?” asked Claire, her eyes wide in amazement.
“Skiing, well we need to practice don’t we, silly?” said Cecil.
Louanne’s eyebrows shot through her fringe. “How can we practice when we can’t even get outside? Even the skis are outside.”
Caiomhe looked thoughtful for a moment. “But the tea trays aren’t. They’re in the kitchen, and there’s nobody in the gym. I heard Val Pertwee saying that at lunch.”
“And the gym floor’s just been polished,” added Léonie. “We’ll be able to slide quite easily.”
Cecil looked around the group. “Right, Claire, Daphne, Bella and I will go down to the kitchen and sneak the trays. The rest of you go to the gym and we’ll meet you there. We’ll just have to hope that nobody takes it upon themselves to check on us.”

Without further ado the miscreants did their bidding and assembled in the gym a short while after. They spent an enjoyable half hour sliding up and down the gym floor on the tea trays trying their level best not to fall over as they did so. The bright spark to propose the race was Cecil and she, Claire, Caoimhe and Léonie lined up on their trays to see who could ‘ski’ to the other end of the hall first. It all started so well until Caoimhe’s foot slipped off one of her trays. With a wild shriek she grabbed at Claire, bringing them both down as she did so. Léonie, who had been directly behind Claire, promptly fell over Claire and joined the heap on the floor. Cecil, who had been in the lead, turned round sharply to see what was happening, lost her balance and landed flat on her back. Of the bystanders Daphne and Polly kept their heads best and pulled Caoimhe, Claire and Léonie apart whilst Louanne dashed to help Cecil up. The four of them were a real sight for sore eyes all covered in dust. Caoimhe had managed to catch her tunic and ripped the hem as well as sporting the beginnings of a very lovely black eye. Claire had taken the knees out of her stockings and had grazed her left knee quite badly. Léonie had managed to lose a button off her blouse and put a lovely tear in the elbow, but seemed unharmed otherwise. Cecil’s clothes had come out of it in one piece but she had a lovely bump forming on her head.

It was upon this sorry scene that Peggy Burnett chose to stumble as she’d come to look for something. Without further ado she gave her tongue free reign to the group as a whole before packing the racers off to Matron to be cleaned up. Matron was spared them no less than Miss Burnett as she cleaned up their injuries and packed Cecil and Caoimhe off to bed before sending Claire and Léonie off to the Head’s study to join the others. The Head decreed that since they were obviously not fit to be trusted they were to be treated like KG babies for the next week, and were to spend the rest of the day in silence and apart from their friends. It would certainly be a long time before they tried that particular trick again; but Cecil felt a certain kick knowing that she had managed to achieve something that her mother hadn’t and had added to the legends of the school.

#694: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Mon Apr 19, 2004 5:10 pm

Yay!!!!!!!
More drabble
More excellent drabble in fact - thanks Pim

#695: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Mon Apr 19, 2004 5:26 pm

Well it was certainly original! 0_o

*giggles at the girls*

Should have known they'd get caught though.
(Thanks pim)

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

Posted: Mon Apr 19, 2004 6:15 pm

Lovely Pim!
Feel sorry for Cecil though feeling stuck in her Mother's shadow!

#697: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Mon Apr 19, 2004 7:14 pm

Wow an original prank...always a hard thing to come up with, well done Pim! Laughing