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Title: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Carolyn P on Dec 4th, 2003, 5:02pm Archived for length Links are here: part one http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/altrom.html part two http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/altromance2.htm part three http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/altrom3.html part four http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/altrom4.html Part Five http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/altrom5.htm |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 4th, 2003, 7:50pm The car wobbled slightly in its course. Then Kathie removed her friend’s hand, gently. “Freedom for the rich?” she asked lightly. “Is that all liberation is?” There was a silence. “I appreciate the offer, May. But I love my job – giving it up would be a sacrifice. I shouldn’t have to do that.” Mabel sighed, “You could be with me and still teach.” Kathie laughed. “I can’t really see you with a working woman, sweetheart. The lifestyles wouldn’t fit.” She paused for a moment, before adding softly, “And – and I still haven’t given up hope on Nancy. I do love her, you know.” Her passenger glanced over at her. “Well, I just hope she realises how lucky she is,” her usually merry voice was wistful for once. “You always were too good for me, Kay.” “Nonsense,” but her friend’s voice was gentle. “You need someone much more flamboyant. You’d get awfully bored with just a school mistress.” “Mmm,” Mabel looked away for a second, then shrugged her shoulders lightly. “Well, the offer stands, if you ever change your mind.” “Thank you.” The two women sat enveloped in their own private thoughts for some minutes. Then Kathie smiled to herself. “No one’s called me that since St. Hilda’s, you know. I’m ‘Kathie’ to everyone at school.” “It must feel like a different world.” “Yes,” Kathie looked distinctly amused. “There isn’t quite such an active scene here, for one thing!” Mabel grinned, her mood lightening. “Do you remember how I found you out?” “Oh God! It was that film, wasn’t it?” Kathie turned scarlet at the memory. “‘All About Eve’.” “Yup!” Mabel regarded her friend wickedly. “Remind me who was completely rapt in the film but couldn’t even recall the male lead’s name afterwards?” Kathie covered her face with her hands for a second. “Oh, no! What a give-away,” she groaned, before joining in with her friend’s laughter. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Emma_N on Dec 4th, 2003, 8:16pm This is a brilliant story Catherine, i love Mabel, lets hope she sorts everything out!! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lesley on Dec 4th, 2003, 8:28pm Excellent Catherine - looking forward to more! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 4th, 2003, 9:16pm A rather dark passage. Sorry... -- Kathie and Mabel spent the rest of the journey down from the Platz gossiping pleasurably about old friends. As they were approaching the little runway where she had parked her ‘plane, however, Mabel turned to her companion with a serious look. “Kay, I want to say just one thing.” She took a deep breath, “Even if you choose a quiet life, don’t ever let anyone make you feel guilty about what you are.” The women exchanged glances. “I won’t,” Kathie spoke slowly, as though she were making a promise. “Good,” Mabel said briefly. She gazed out of the window, all the humour suddenly wiped from her face. “Do you know, the last woman I dated had been subjected to electrocution?” “What?” Kathie stared at her friend. “Electro-shock therapy, if you want to be precise,” Mabel’s voice was hard. “She was American, apparently they believe in scientific cures over there.” Kathie closed her eyes in revulsion. There had always been rumours of such cases, but she had never known anyone personally involved. “What happened?” Mabel shrugged. “It didn’t cure her, but it sure screwed with her mind.” She drummed her fingers on the passenger seat. “Well, I guess it’s a reason to be careful.” Her driver shook her head, “A reason to stand up for what one believes in.” She glanced at her friend. “As far as possible. Oh, God, May, that’s just unspeakable. I’m so sorry.” “Mmm.” Mabel was silent for a minute. Then she gave herself a sudden shake, “No, I’m sorry, Kay. I came here to cheer you up, and now listen what I’m talking about.” “Don’t be an idiot,” Kathie’s tone had something of her school mistress’s firmness. She put a steadying hand on her friend’s shoulder. “Besides, you have cheered me up - just by being here.” “Right,” Mabel leant back against her seat. “Well,” she added as the car drew up by the side of the runway, “are you ready for a spin?” |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lisa_T on Dec 4th, 2003, 9:44pm *wails* What's 'All About Eve' got to do with it? I could tell you the name of the male lead, but I think the interaction between Margo and Eve is much more interesting that that between Margo and Bill. And the Richards are even better! So I don't see the what the point is that you're making, Catherine! ::) ??? |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 4th, 2003, 10:00pm Oops - just a bad choice on my part, Lisa! (she says, having only just read the synopsis). Sorry - shouldn't reference films I've never seen just because they have good titles and were released in the right year ::) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lisa_T on Dec 4th, 2003, 10:11pm *g* 'All About Eve' is a favourite film of mine. What I actually thought you were referring to is that Bette Davis (i might be wrong here) became something of a gay icon at one point. Can't remember when or why- but there you have it! It's a very funny film, with some lovely 'aww' moments and brilliant oneliners- including a monologue on 'a woman's career' which always seems very modern to me although it was released in 1950/1951. *fasten your seatbelts, it's going to be a bumpy night* - especially if you're dangling off cliffs! Wah! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by xanthe on Dec 4th, 2003, 10:12pm *sniffles* Thank you Catherine :) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Kathy_S on Dec 4th, 2003, 10:25pm Can’t imagine paying attention to who plays whom in a film. It’s the characters that count! (But recently caught niece writing a swooning letter to whoever it is that plays Legolas) (Fabulous job with the characters, Catherine!) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Nicolette on Dec 4th, 2003, 10:41pm Waaah. this is fantabularso Catherine. Mabel is superb, and theres nothing like the green eyed monster to make people wake up to their true feelings. Please let everything work out for N&K (though as someone's already said, based on later books ie challenge, it would appear that they are happy and fairly together) Please m'am, I want some more. :) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 4th, 2003, 10:41pm Oh dear, Kathy, it's Orlando Bloom and keep your voice down or Rachel will get started ;) *he is completely tasty though!* Catherine - consistently brilliant! Thank you! edited to add: I had no idea about the electro-therapy - thinking One Flew ... I am suitably horrified and repulsed |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Esmeralda on Dec 4th, 2003, 10:49pm Thank you for that Catharine, eagerly waiting to see what happens next. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 4th, 2003, 11:10pm Last installment of the night. This one's for Rachael P :-* -- Although both women had reasons to be sober, by the time their flight was over and they had returned to the Chalet School they were feeling in good spirits once more. Mabel joined the staff table for Abendessen and enjoyed both the meal and the company, though she was less exuberant than previously. At last, as the evening drew to a close, she took her farewell. “Thank you so much for coming,” Kathie held her hands as they stood on the school’s gravel driveway, waiting for Mabel’s car to arrive and carry her down to Interlaken, where she was staying for the night. Her face was still glowing from the flight, “I really appreciate it.” “It was a pleasure,” Mabel said truthfully. She smiled at her friend, “And I hope everything works out with Nancy.” Kathie gave her friend a huge hug. “Thanks.” She stepped back as the car drew up before them. “Have a safe journey back, old thing. I’ll pay you a visit next time.” “I’m counting on it,” Mabel said as she got into the vehicle. “Take care, hon. Don’t forget to look after yourself.” “I won’t,” Kathie felt a lump in her throat as her friend’s car began to move off. She waved wildly. “See you at Christmas!” As she turned to re-enter the School buildings, Kathie found herself face-to-face with Nancy and Hilary, who were just walking down the great front steps. “Oh! Good evening,” she said, surprised to see them there. “Good evening, Kathie,” Hilary gave her a friendly greeting as usual. Nancy merely nodded. “Thanks for covering my walk at such short notice today,” the younger woman looked at her partner, “I appreciate it.” “No problem.” Nancy’s tone was impersonal. “I hope you had a good time.” “I did,” Kathie couldn’t have stopped her eyes from sparkling at the memory of the afternoon’s flight, then, if she’d tried. “I’d never seen the mountains looking so beautiful before.” “Delightful,” Nancy sounded dour. “How fortunate that you have friends like Miss Cartwright.” “Lady Cartwright, actually,” Kathie shot back. Then she glanced at Hilary. “Oh, don’t mind me,” Hilary had been at Abendessen and had sized up the situation clearly. “I’ll walk down to the gates – catch me up, Nancy?” She slipped away tactfully, leaving the other two to talk. “I suppose that’s one of your ‘normal’ friends from St. Hilda’s?” Nancy hissed, as soon as Hilary was out of earshot. Kathie refused to react to this blatant provocation. “Mabel is fortunate in having the means to live as she pleases,” she said neutrally. “Certainly. And she must be very fond of you to fly all this way just to see you for the day.” Kathie’s temper began to rise. “I believe she is, yes.” “Indeed!” Nancy’s tones were so acid, she sounded as though she’d swallowed a lemon, whole. “You must have been very close at college.” She glared at her partner. Kathie returned the glare with interest. “She’s been an admirer of mine for several years, if that’s what you mean. And still is.” “Hmph!” The green-eyed monster was in complete possession of Nancy that evening. “I suppose she came to pay her attentions, then.” “You suppose wrong, as a matter of fact. She came to cheer me up. Strangely enough, I hadn’t been feeling particularly well recently,” Kathie’s sarcasm cut like a knife. Nancy sucked in her breath, “So she didn’t ask you to go away with her?” The younger woman regarded her colleague through narrowed eyes. “Given your recent behaviour, I can’t help thinking that thatt’s none of your business,” she said after an icy silence. She drew herself up to her full height. “Good evening, Nancy.” It was Kay, not Kathie, Ferrars who turned and stalked back into the building. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Angel of the North on Dec 4th, 2003, 11:16pm WOWWEEEE Another breath-taking chunk. I'm loving this, especially the comment about names. I know what that means, having left my old name behind, and gone to being 'Angel' full time. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lesley on Dec 4th, 2003, 11:17pm Good for Kay/Kathie - about time something woke Nancy to just how badly she's been treating Kathie! Really love this Catherine - suitably horrified about ECT - but not shocked - it's been used for any number of nasty reasons in the name of 'Science' and 'Correct Behaviour' |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 5th, 2003, 2:08am Good on Kathie! I hope that wakes Nancy up a little. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Vikki on Dec 5th, 2003, 2:46am Catherine, this really is a masterpiece!! I desperately want Kathie and Nancy to work things out!! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by mandyz on Dec 5th, 2003, 2:57am This is fantastic! Was really surprised to hear about the elcectro-schock therapy though. It seems rather absurb..(not Catherine_B's writing but the technology itself) how can it possibly work? |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 5th, 2003, 8:47am Poor Nancy, it must be difficult having such an internal battle - Kathie's very lucky that she's so sure of herself and who she is, )in a Kay/Kathie kind of way ;)) ... *wondering whether Hilary will be able to impart any words of wisdom* Thanks, Catherine :D - I could feel the tension between them - ouch! Still, when they get through this, they'll be all the stronger ... |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Carolyn P on Dec 5th, 2003, 10:04am Thank-you Catherine, those were very powerful scenes. I had heard about the stupid EST theory before although I never thought of it when reading this, and whilst I wanted to respond, just couldn't find the words. I'm glad Kathie has some good friends, although she will have to be careful if she doesn't want to 'come out' to the rest of the staff. Just wondered, is this alternative CS universe, or real CS universe, 'cos if it's real we can look for a happy'ish ending, but if it's alternative...then I'm stocking up on tissues and Ben and Jerry's ice-cream. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 5th, 2003, 12:56pm Don't worry, Carolyn - it's real :D We all roared for more at the beginning when Catherine tried to end it and asked her to explore everyone else's attitudes, faiths etc when they got back to school She warned us it might get sad but we're all set for a happy ending .... *has every confidence* (If not, I personally swear to drive down to Oxford, search every student-looking house, (particularly those where there's friction because of lazy house-mates ;)) and chain her to her keyboard until we get a happy ending!) However, you'll probably need the extra tisues and B&J's for the journey ;D |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Chloe on Dec 5th, 2003, 5:15pm :o WOW, WOW and WOW again those last posts have been so gripping they're great. More soon please! :) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Carolyn P on Dec 5th, 2003, 5:21pm Thank you for the reassurance Rachael P. I had forgotten all about those comments at the beginning of the thread. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 5th, 2003, 5:38pm Hey! Remember - I tried to end it happily and you lot wouldn't accept it! Edited to add: The next few scenes are written, but my plane is calling - argh! If I get a chance I'll post from the airport or Delhi - otherwise you'll have to wait until Wednesday. Sorry!! -- In the end it was Hilary who had to return for Nancy, as the latter remained, fuming, on the gravel pathway for several minutes after Kathie's departure. "Nance?" Hilary regarded her friend queryingly. "Is everything OK?" Nancy looked up with a frown. Then she emitted a low howl of frustration, "No! No, it isn't! It's all quite, quite wrong!" She gnashed her teeth, "Hilary, I just want to scream." "Right," Hilary said firmly, "In that case you're coming home with me. Not much use in screaming here, is there?" She gripped her friend's elbow. "The car's at the gates. Come on - or do I have to haul you?" she added, as Nancy showed signs of resisting. "All right, all right," Nancy allowed herself to be dragged down the driveway after a few seconds. "But I'm warning you - I'm going to be bad company." "Excellent," her companion said equably. "I've had far too much good company lately. Some bad company is just what I've been needing." "Oh - you!" Nancy's frown began to lift despite herself. She pulled a semi-serious, semi-humorous face at her chum, "I suppose you're going to be all wise and adviceful." "That's a nice word," Hilary returned blandly. "Shades of the Abbess." She kept the conversation deliberately light until they reached the gates. Then her voice grew gentler, and she put a comforting arm around her friend as she helped her into the car. "Come on, Nancy - in you get. We're going home." |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lesley on Dec 5th, 2003, 7:03pm Come on Catherine - I see you're on the Board - post more!!!! ;D Can't bear to think I'll have to wait till Wednesday - don't they have computers in India?? :-/ |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Esmeralda on Dec 5th, 2003, 8:06pm There have been moments when I've almost wished that this story had ended at the railway station, almost, but not quite. The last few episodes have been so powerful, and painful at times, I really am looking forward to a happy ending. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 5th, 2003, 9:00pm Hooray for our persuasive powers! I love seeing jealous Nancy! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by xanthe on Dec 5th, 2003, 9:04pm Thank you Catherine ;D |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Alex on Dec 5th, 2003, 9:15pm Belated humble grovelling Catharine for calling you the wrong name before, that's what happens when you read too many drabbles in one go! Hope you continue to be so inspired. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 5th, 2003, 9:24pm *also gnashing teeth* WEDNESDAY??!! Oh well, at least Nancy's with Hilary ... I suppose we can be grateful for something |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Carolyn P on Dec 5th, 2003, 9:32pm *mantra like chant* Hillary will help. Hillary will help. Hillary will help. Hillary will help. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Vikki on Dec 5th, 2003, 11:22pm Thank you Catherine!! Have a great time in Dehli! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Chloe on Dec 6th, 2003, 4:29pm Have fun in Dehli :) And i can't wait for the next bit to be posted! :) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 10th, 2003, 4:33pm Back! (Sorry for not posting from India btw - computers were too communal to feel comfortable about typing up any of this story. Oh, and four days of continuous partying proved something of a distraction ;)) -- Less than an hour later Nancy, Hilary and Phil were ensconced in the Graves’ comfortable living-room at Sonnenhofen. The environment was as warm and welcoming as always, but Nancy – who generally felt quite at home with Hilary and her husband – was for once ill at ease. She regarded her friends with a somewhat ambiguous expression and seemed in no hurry to start the conversation. Hilary, seeing her friend’s hesitation, though not understanding its causes, decided to be direct. “Nance, if you want to talk about anything, I hope you know that Phil and I are always glad to listen,” she glanced over at her husband, who nodded swiftly in agreement. Nancy saw the glance, and gave a sigh. She fiddled with her hands for a moment, then, unable to restrain herself any longer, “You two don’t know how much I envy you!” she blurted out in tones of considerable bitterness. “Tell us,” Phil said calmly. Hilary was too taken aback to reply. “Your house – your family – your money – your marriage – your comfort -” Nancy gestured around the room to emphasise her point. “You have so much -” she closed her eyes for a moment as though to block out her surroundings “- and I have so little,” she said in a whisper so quiet that Phil and Hilary had to strain to hear her. Her listeners’ hearts flew out to her, despite the animosity in her words, for they could feel the pain beneath them. “Nancy – darling -” Hilary slipped over to the sofa where her school chum was sitting, “You do know we count you as part of the family, don’t you? You’re our friend and Lois’s god-mother – there’ll always be a place for you in our house.” She sounded distressed. “Yes,” Nancy was wrestling with herself after her outburst, “Hil, don’t think I don’t appreciate it. I’m not ungrateful, but -” she trailed off into silence. After a moment she gave a despairing cry and buried her head in her hands “I simply don’t know what’s come over me recently! I’m envious of my closest friends, cruel to Kathie, and – and now jealous too. It’s as though the old me has disappeared and been replaced by - by a perfectly hateful one. I just don’t know what to do!” |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 10th, 2003, 4:35pm Hurray! - it's Wednesday which means Catherine_B must be back - hope you had a good time in India and that you tell us all about it Off-Topic Meanwhile, how about a post? *hoping that your long-haul flights have given you lots of inspiration ;D* *waiting eagerly ......* I know you're there ...........................................................!! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 10th, 2003, 4:38pm :-[ Sorry - posts crossed - over eager! Welcome back! Poor Nancy - if only she would realise she has got so much - a fulfilling career, loyal friends like Hilary, a partner like Kathie |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Katarzyna on Dec 10th, 2003, 4:40pm Hurrah Catherine's back. Glad you enjoyed yourself in India. The emotions you are giving the characters are so realistic. can't wait for the next bit of story. (not too subtle hint) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Esmeralda on Dec 10th, 2003, 4:41pm Poor Nancy, this must be hard on her too, I do hope Hilary, and Phil, help her feel better about herself. btw - glad you had a good time in Delhi - awful long way to go for a party tho'! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 10th, 2003, 4:43pm :-* Rachael *going off for a loooong soak in the bath to make up for a long night on the plane* -- Hilary put her arms around her friend. “Well,” she said unexpectedly, and in a slightly shaky voice, “if you want to talk about envy, do you know how much I envy you your job?” Nancy sat up in astonishment. “But – but you’ve seemed so happy here with the children,” she said in surprise. “I am!” Hilary gave a rueful laugh. “But I miss teaching. And Phil knows it, too” she added swiftly, as Nancy cast a glance at her husband, “I wouldn’t change my decision to get married for anything in the world, but I do miss being in the midst of all the activity. Here I’m on the fringes of both worlds – School and San – and I have no idea what I’ll do when the children are old enough for school. Baking cookies and playing bridge just don’t fill my day,” she wound up with a fearful grimace. “I – I -” Nancy was still digesting this information. “Well, I suppose it makes sense,” she said slowly, after a moment. “You were such a capable leader at school. But couldn’t you find some other kind of work…?” Hilary shook her head impatiently. “Nance, let’s not discuss my concerns right now. Just – I wanted to say that no one’s life is perfect, really.” Phil leaned forward in his armchair, suddenly. “But there’s no harm in wanting more than you have,” he said seriously, focusing on Nancy’s concerns. He had always got on well with his wife’s school friend and had come to share Hilary’s feeling that Nancy all too often didn’t expect enough for herself. “You’ve got a well-deserved reputation for being sunny-tempered and obliging – and those are extremely likeable characteristics -”, he shot her a sudden grin, “but don’t you think that putting yourself first might be a good thing, just occasionally? If you know what you want, that is…” Hilary nodded, with a contemplative look at her friend. “Nancy, the last few times you’ve visited us, you’ve been accompanied by a delightful, animated young woman, who seemed to make you happy,” she said slowly. “I don’t want to make any judgements for you, but it did seem to me that you knew what you wanted…” Nancy gave a sigh. “Won’t you tell us what’s been happening between you and Kathie?” her friend’s voice was gentle and persuasive… |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by xanthe on Dec 10th, 2003, 4:50pm *bouncing excitedly* glad you enjoyed India Catherine ;D thanks for the installments... |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Angel of the North on Dec 10th, 2003, 4:51pm Ooh, wonderful. Goes off to her own cliff to start playing agan... |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 10th, 2003, 4:52pm *happy sigh* Settles back, ready to listen to what Hilary has to say to Nancy - at last, the voice of reason! And she's so right - it is Kathie who makes her happy and they must be in love because the flip side of the coin is it's unlikely that anyone else could make her so miserable ... Enjoy your bath, Catherine, pour yourself a nice glass of wine or whatever and we'll be here avidly awaiting the next post ;D |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lesley on Dec 10th, 2003, 5:45pm Aaaahhhhh! I have missed this - Welcome back Catherine we've missed you! ;D Any more please? Really, really want Nancy and Kathie to be happy together. :) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Carolyn P on Dec 10th, 2003, 7:27pm Welcome back Catherine. Looking forward to a happy ending................. eventually! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 10th, 2003, 9:17pm Well, I hope Nancy is finally willing to listen! Is she broken down enough to do so yet? *hopeful* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 10th, 2003, 9:45pm "OK, it's like this," Nancy began at last. "I suppose you've heard about the sermon that was preached a month or so ago?" She checked her friends' faces. "Gossip does travel round the Platz pretty quickly," Phil assented drily, "though it dies out almost as swiftly," he added as an afterthought. "Mmm," Nancy ignored the latter remark. "Well, it was a fairly horrible experience. But actually, after the initial shock, the religious element didn't trouble me so much. Kathie and I talked about the sermon for a couple of weeks, and she pretty much convinced me that the passage was about - about lust," she blushed slightly, "rather than love." "So?" Hilary wondered where this was going. "Are you saying that you've settled down to a platonic friendship?" There was a hint of scepticism in her voice. "No-o," Nancy hesitated. "That is - Kathie did suggest it. More for my sake, I think, than her own. But it just didn't make sense to me." She mused. "You see, I can't separate caring for her emotionally, and wanting her physically - it's a completely impossible distinction. And I fail to see how being physically attracted can be a bad thing, if the root cause is love." "Well?" Hilary looked perplexed. "I thought Kathie had a similar perspective - isn't that what you said?" Her friend nodded. "So what's the problem, Nance?" |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by PatW on Dec 10th, 2003, 9:47pm [quote author=Catherine_B link=board=drabbles;num=1070557336;start=40#46 date=12/10/03 at 21:45:21 "So what's the problem, Nance?" [/quote] Yes , so what *is* the problem? |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lesley on Dec 10th, 2003, 9:51pm You are going to be posting more tonight, aren't you Catherine? |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Chloe on Dec 10th, 2003, 9:52pm And the problem is... |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 10th, 2003, 9:53pm Does this count, Lesley? ;D Dear me, I am feeling sleepy tonight... ;D ;D |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Carolyn P on Dec 10th, 2003, 9:56pm So, do I stay on or do I have that earlyish night I've been promising myself? |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 10th, 2003, 10:02pm NOOOOOOOOO!, Catherine, PLEASE! What is the problem? *begging* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Vikki on Dec 10th, 2003, 10:42pm Thank you Catherine! Glad you had fun in Dehli, but please don't keep us hanging like this!!! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 10th, 2003, 10:53pm “Well, it’s something the minister said afterwards,” Nancy said, slowly. “You see, I went to talk to him a few times about the sermon – I wanted to think through the theology properly.” Hilary pulled a face inwardly. Her approach to religion had always been much more pragmatic than her friend’s, the one major area of disagreement between them. She supposed that Nancy’s more literal interpretation of Scripture reflected her naturally analytical streak, but on occasions like this she couldn’t help wishing that her old school-mate would take a more flexible approach. ‘It would be so much less complicated!’ she thought despairingly to herself. Wisely, however, she bit this back, and concentrated on the immediate question. “So? What did he say?” “Well,” Nancy gnawed upon her fingernails, “he was talking about why homosexual relationships were wrong, because they couldn’t produce children. And – and – I guess it just hit me how many things I can’t give Kathie, that she deserves. No -” she cut off her friend’s attempt to interrupt, “Listen to me, Hil. I’m serious.” She started counting on her fingers. “First thing, no children – and that’s a big one, because I know she loves kids. Second thing, not making her family happy – I can’t exactly see her Aunt and Uncle welcoming me with open arms, can you, especially since she’s an only child? Third thing, no public recognition of our relationship – she’d be living a life perpetually in the shadows, having to lie and deceive people all over the place. Fourth thing, no home or financial security – even our combined incomes are meagre.” Nancy threw up her hands in despair. “And believe me, those are just for starters. I’m no good for her, Hil – she’d be infinitely better off getting married...” |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Sugarplum on Dec 10th, 2003, 10:59pm would she ??? I love this drabble ,,,,,, its exploring depths of characters that EBD just left alone. Although I do wonder if this was what she had in mind for them and couldn't write? |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Vikki on Dec 10th, 2003, 11:16pm Awwww! Poor Nancy!! :'( :'( |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 10th, 2003, 11:32pm Oh, Nancy - noooooooo! You can't make those decisions for Kathie - it's up to her to decide whether you're giving her enough - let her make her own mind up and her own compromises! Focus on what you can give her ... love, respect, fulfilment .... Come on Hilary - tell her!!! (er ... Catherine, I know that it's, technically, just a story but it's so well written that I'm immersed ...... thank you!) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Nicolette on Dec 10th, 2003, 11:46pm Catherine, I was so pleased there was more story posted tonight, I'd begun to experience withdrawal symptoms - really. I hope Nancy comes to realise that Kathy just wouldn't deceieve herself or anyone else by getting married for the sake of it. Oh, drat that minister. Why couldn't he just let it alone. Poor Nancy, she's so confused. *wonders whether we can use the hugs box to send hugs to fictional people* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 10th, 2003, 11:47pm Your wish is my command, Rachael :) -- Hilary glanced helplessly at her husband in the face of this tirade. Everything that Nancy said was true, but it didn’t mean she accepted her friend’s conclusions. Phil took the hint. “But even if what you say is true, Nancy, shouldn’t you let Kathie decide for herself how much those things matter to her? From what I saw, she looked like a woman who knew what she wanted – and that was you.” He spoke bluntly, feeling that in her present mood Nancy would be impervious to more subtle arguments. Nancy’s eyes flashed, but she shook her head stubbornly nonetheless. “Phil, I’m older, I’ve had time think about whether I want a home or family. But Kathie’s ten years younger than I am. It would be unpardonable of me to allow her to make that kind of decision now.” Suddenly, Hilary emitted a wail of frustration. “Nancy Wilmot, what is your problem?” She stamped her foot. “Plenty of women make life-determining decisions when they’re much younger than Kathie. And most of the men they marry aren’t half as nice as you are. For goodness sake, why don’t you see how much you have to give, yourself?” “Hil, I haven’t -” “You are talking such blethering rubbish!” Hilary had abandoned all hope of influencing her friend through gentle persuasion. “If you’re too stupid to judge your own character properly, you can jolly well listen to someone who’s known you for twenty years! Nancy, if Kathie is in love with you, she has good reason to be. You’re the best friend I have. You’re funny, intelligent, attractive, warm-hearted, and selfless to a fault. You’re hard-working, reliable and a complete professional in your job. You obviously make Kathie happy, at least when you’re not behaving like a first class idiot, like at the moment. And actually,” she glared ferociously at her old schoolmate, “the only thing I can think of to criticise you for is modesty!” Nancy gaped at her friend. “It’s no use dithering, either,” Hilary was going to have her say or die, this evening. “Because contrary to your assertions, I can’t see a single shred of evidence that Kathie would get married if you broke up with her. In fact, I’d say it was much more likely that she’d disappear with that pilot friend of hers, judging by this weekend’s performance. And then where would you be, Nancy?” she demanded fiercely. “Well? You tell me that!” |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Vikki on Dec 10th, 2003, 11:52pm Yay!! Hilary to the rescue!!!! :) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Nicolette on Dec 10th, 2003, 11:53pm *stands and applauds Hilary* Thanks Catherine. Anymore tonight, possibly? ;) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 10th, 2003, 11:56pm Sure, Nicolette - Thursday night, that is! Can't believe I've just sacrificed my lovely, long, making-up-for-missed-night-on-the-aeroplane sleep for the sake of this drabble! *curses self for stupidity* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Vikki on Dec 11th, 2003, 12:02am Well, we appreciate the sacrifice Catherine! :-* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 11th, 2003, 12:24am Well, after having put up these wonderful parts, I think you may go to bed with a feeling of satisfaction for a job well done! This is an amazing story, with very powerful emotions, and I hope that we'll soon see some positive ones from both Kathie and Nancy! As for Hilary, I feel like giving her a huge hug! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lesley on Dec 11th, 2003, 4:40am Agree, Hilary needs a big hug - so does Phil. Hope this shakes Nancy into action - she and Kathie belong together! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Carolyn P on Dec 11th, 2003, 8:27am Well done Hillary and Phil. Now we just need Nancy's response ;D |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Chloe on Dec 11th, 2003, 9:26am on 12/10/03 at 23:56:48, Catherine_B wrote:
Wellwe're al going to appreciate it :-* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:48am *bursts into spontaneous applause* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Vikki on Dec 11th, 2003, 8:01pm *wonders if Catherine's caught up on her sleep yet?* :-* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 11th, 2003, 8:33pm “Hello Ricki! Eyes better?” Nancy greeted the returning schoolgirl at the door of St. Luke’s Hall, where the school’s Christmas play was about to take place. “Good! It must be a great relief to be seeing properly again.” She smiled kindly at her pupil, “We’re looking forward to seeing you back next term, so mind you don’t disappoint us.” Turning to Jo Maynard and her twins, she uttered rapid greetings, before glancing at her watch, “I must fly! It’s nearly time for the overture!” With a grin to the party, she whirled around and disappeared into the auditorium to take up her stewarding position at the back of the hall, from which she could survey both the play and audience. As the orchestra struck up, Nancy smiled privately to herself. It was not just Richenda who was seeing the world afresh in recent days. Thanks to Hilary’s forceful admonition the previous weekend, she had finally allowed herself to re-evaluate her relationship with Kathie, and the conclusions she had reached during the past few days had rendered her much calmer in spirit. To be sure, her reflections had not all been pleasant; the recollection of her friend’s recent visitor from England had caused her some misgivings as to Kathie’s state of mind. In addition, her younger colleague had been too busy of late with rehearsals for the Christmas play even to make an appearance in the staff-room, let alone to meet for a private conversation. Nonetheless, Nancy felt considerably relieved at having regained her own certainty as to what she wanted. As the overture drew to a close, she vowed fervently that she would find Kathie after the play, and initiate a proper conversation that same evening. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Angel of the North on Dec 11th, 2003, 8:53pm AWWWWW Lovely. *loops the loop on her broomstick, and heads off to quidditch practice* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 11th, 2003, 9:02pm Three cheers for Hilary! HIP, HIP .................................... I do so love a bit of straight talking - that's pretty much what I was dying to say ..! Hope Nancy gets to speak to Kathie soon and that Kathie is still willing to listen .... Any more coming tonight, Catherine? *winning smile* *applauds Catherine for her sterling (sp?) duty to the cause and forfeiting her sleep - we appreciate you :-* * |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Vikki on Dec 11th, 2003, 9:10pm Thank you Catherine! :-* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Chloe on Dec 11th, 2003, 9:35pm *applaudes* Thank you Catherine! :) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lesley on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:03pm Thank you Catherine - more soon as you're rested! Just had a horrible thought :o Suppose Nancy has left it too late and Kathie is about to go off flying high with Mabel? |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Julie on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:06pm once again, thank you so much Catherine do you know Lesley, I just had exactly the same thought :'( *eagerly awaiting the next installment* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Chloe on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:08pm Nooo Lesley don't even suggest such a thing |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:12pm Lesley! ;D >:( The rest of us were trying not to put that into words in case Catherine's plot bunny acted on it .......... ! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:25pm The first scene of Joey Maynard’s play was set in a medieval banqueting hall, where a lord and lady – tall Hilary Bennet and vividly pretty Vi Lucy – were awaiting impatiently the arrival of a king. Beneath the gaiety and pageantry there was an undercurrent of tension, for the king was new to the throne, and none at the court had yet set eyes upon him. Into this scene appeared a herald to announce visitors. To the annoyance of many of the revellers, however, it was not the monarch who came, but a couple of destitute beggars seeking shelter for the night. The lord of the manor frowned, but upon hearing that the pair carried a babe, he heeded his wife’s entreaties and accepted them to his household. Joey’s writing was gripping as always, and the audience were captivated by the realistic enactment of her work. At this moment, however, there was a distraction as Marjorie Graves recognised her baby sister in Barbara Chester’s arms. “Vat’s my sister!” she proclaimed excitedly, before anyone could stop her. There were a number of chuckles from around the auditorium, but Nancy heard only a quiet giggle at her shoulder. “Kathie?” she looked down, her heart skipping a beat. In the darkness of the hall, she had not noticed her friend’s appearance at her side. “Shh,” the younger woman glanced up at her, “Listen to the play, Nancy.” Kathie’s eyes danced with amusement, nonetheless. Her backstage efforts complete, now she could only watch and hope that the actors would follow her directions. At length the king appeared, regal in his crimson robes and golden crown. After acknowledging the lord’s humble obeisance, he looked around the room. “Heeded ye my forerunners? The beggar pair; the lost enemy?” Mary-Lou Trelawney’s uncompromising gaze confronted the courtiers and audience alike. “Are they here and welcome?” The lord bowed low once more, though not grasping the monarch’s meaning. “Yes, sire,” he replied humbly, “We have received some unexpected visitors this evening, and they have joined our court.” At the king’s behest, the guests thus described stepped forward from the back of the room. “You did rightly,” the ruler said approvingly to his subject. “For those that show consideration to the poor as to the rich, to enemies as to friends, shall they be my courtiers. I bid you attend upon me as king’s adviser, and your wife as royal almoner.” His eyes swept across the banquet hall, taking note of the red-faced courtiers who had spoken out against the unexpected guests. Then he turned to face the audience. “Heed ye well my words. It is not those who value riches and high status that shall be welcomed in my kingdom, but those who show generosity to the poor and the friendless; for love cannot be measured in money, but rather in kindness and compassion…” |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:29pm Quote:
Lesley, just because nothing ever goes well in your stories doesn't mean it will in other people's!!! And Catherine, this is wonderful! Thank you for having so much for me to read this morning! I'm sure Kathie will be full of the message of the play and willing to listen... |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:33pm Awww, that's lovely, Catherine ... ... and Kathie's words/behaviour bode well for Nancy .... Thank you :D |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:35pm Quote:
8oo KB - don't you think that's a teeny bit harsh? Surely by now you're reconciled to the fact that what will go wrong, will, but they'll pull through in the end! :D |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:39pm Well, that's the opinion I've always had of her stories! There's no point looking for a happy bit until you see 'The End' at the bottom of the message. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:42pm *shakes head* So cynical in one so young ........................................ ;D |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 11th, 2003, 10:45pm *lol* Yes, dear, something like that. *sometimes thinks I have good reasons to be so* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 11th, 2003, 11:02pm The words were Joey’s, but the direction was all Kathie’s, and the younger woman glanced up at her neighbour in some anxiety to see whether the play’s message had reached home. The expression she saw on Nancy’s face reassured her, however, for the taller woman was so moved by both the message and the drama that she didn’t even notice her friend’s glance, but continued to gaze at the stage as though spellbound. Kathie gave an inward sigh of relief, and returned her attention to the play. The scenes changed from medieval banquet hall to Tudor household and Mumming play, interspersed with carols sung by a bevy of angels. Finally, just before the curtain rose on the tableau with Madonna, St Joseph and child, the school choir – hidden this time – sang the beautiful hymn by Cristina Rossetti, Love came down at Christmas. Whether it was Nancy or Kathie who moved first is impossible to tell. Suffice it to say that, at some point during the third verse, their hands met, and it was thus that they remained, holding hands, until the last chorus of the Adeste was sung and the lights went up again in the hall. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Vikki on Dec 11th, 2003, 11:03pm Thank you Catherine! *hopes this will be a happy development!!* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 11th, 2003, 11:05pm Uh, one little quibble: wouldn't Kathie have been backstage prompting? I think she usually was... |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 11th, 2003, 11:05pm :o Good heavens! How much happier do you want? Surely you don't think I'd do anything nasty, now.... .... do you? |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 11th, 2003, 11:07pm No, dear. Vikki is just measuring you by her own standards. ;) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Angel of the North on Dec 11th, 2003, 11:08pm [ cynic] No, of course you wouldn't dump us on another rollercoaster just as we'd dropped off the last one in semi-coherent heaps... |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Vikki on Dec 11th, 2003, 11:17pm Please note the time of my previous post! While I was typoing you were posting more story!!! (PS Typoing should read typing, but that's how it came out, and it seemed so appropriate I decided to leave it in!!) ;) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 11th, 2003, 11:40pm Dear oh dear, Vikki, see what you've inspired. ;D ;D ;D -- “Congratulations, Kathie,” the quiet voice of the Head startled them all of a sudden. Neither had noticed that they had company at the back of the hall. “The production was beautiful.” “I -” Kathie was speechless for a moment. “Thank you, Miss Annersley!” she said at last, releasing Nancy’s hand lightly. It would have taken a very keen observer indeed to see with what reluctance she did so. A slight shadow passed across the Headmistress’s face, “Excuse me, ladies.” The younger women stepped back to let her pass by. Then, with the merest hint of hesitation, she turned back. “I should like to see you both before the end of term, if that would be convenient?” One eyebrow was raised. “Of course,” Nancy replied for the two of them, seeing that her friend was quite unable to speak. “Good,” Miss Annersley nodded. “Would you come to my study tomorrow morning?” She cast a light smile at her Staff Baby, “Thank you once again, Kathie, for the play.” Then she moved on for good, leaving the two mistresses standing there alone. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Angel of the North on Dec 11th, 2003, 11:43pm Vikki seems to do that to the most well meaning drabble writers... I like that last post, it bodes well for plenty of dramatic tension. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Vikki on Dec 11th, 2003, 11:45pm NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! Catherine! Please don't do anything nasty!! And don't try and place the responsibility on me!!! We crossed posts earlier on! :o :'( |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 11th, 2003, 11:48pm *whistles innocently* Oh - sorry - it's midnight! Must get some sleep tonight - had to pretend to be jet-lagged today in the office, for some reason couldn't bring myself to admit that I was exhausted because my CBB drabble had only let me sleep 5 hours last night ;D Btw - KB - in answer to your quibble - I know Kathie was usually involved in a hands-on sense, but 'Richenda' doesn't actually mention it - and as it's quite early on in her career, I took the liberty of assuming that she's not quite as busy as she would be later. (OK, OK - I just wanted the poor things together in the half-light! Just bear with me!) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Vikki on Dec 11th, 2003, 11:54pm *tries to drag Catherine back to the computer!* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Angel of the North on Dec 12th, 2003, 12:00am *very gently and insistently leads Vicki back down her modem, to get on with her own story* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 12th, 2003, 12:00am *reminds Vikki that she's got a nasty blister on her arm and suggests that physical exertion is probably a bad idea today* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Vikki on Dec 12th, 2003, 12:06am *reluctantly agrees, and then realises this is another good reason for not being able to write more New Family!!* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Esmeralda on Dec 12th, 2003, 12:50am Catharine - I know I've said it before, but this is wonderful, I'm so happy that Nancy and Kathie are together again, but please don't let anything bad happen now - I can't help thinking that Hilda isn't to pleased to find them holding hands, please don't let her be nasty to them. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 1:05am Okay, Catherine, I'll give you credit for that and stop quibbling the little points. It was a lovely scene. And Angel, there is a minimum word limit on all posts of at least three. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Angel of the North on Dec 12th, 2003, 1:15am Ooops. I seem to be getting into trouble today. *Goes back and edits post* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 1:17am *gives Angel a hug* I don't mean to be a nag. Sorry! :-* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Angel of the North on Dec 12th, 2003, 1:18am S'OK As I said on my introductory post, I seem to have this unfortunate tendency to joeyfy everything... |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 1:19am *lol* Great description! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lesley on Dec 12th, 2003, 6:44am Catherine - love the last few posts - glad to see Kathie and Nancy making up. Not so sure about the faint shadow across Hilda's face - doesn't bode well for the interview - looking forward to that! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 7:10am on 12/12/03 at 06:44:43, Lesley wrote:
*hoping it just means that Hilda will have to tell them that, while she minds, other people aren't happy about it, and could they not be demonstrative in public* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:22am Love the last posts, Catherine - very sweet and beautiful touch to use the Rossetti hymn so they make up against the background of the true message of Christmas Am also concerned about the shadow across Hilda's face but agree with KB - Hilda is probably more concerned about who else might have seen their intimacy (e.g. the girls) rather that her own reaction - and as she's seen it, she can't really ignore it ... Am very much looking forward to the scene in her study though - she will have to call upon all her wisdom and insight to handle this appropriately .... .... bet N&K are very, very nervous! I would be! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Carolyn P on Dec 12th, 2003, 10:50am I think she intends them to be nervous, she knows what such a summons would do. I hope she is just trying to make them think about public displays of affection. Is Bill going to be present at the interview, or will we have a separate scene with Bill and Hilda discussing it afterwards? |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 11:06am Does it matter what it is, as long as it's another part? |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 12th, 2003, 11:14am In to the home straits! -- “Morning, Rosalie,” Kathie greeted the School Secretary with some trepidation in her voice. “Um – is the Head available at the moment? She asked to see us,” the younger woman explained with a glance at Nancy, who had followed her into the office. “Really?” Rosalie looked faintly surprised. “Well, in that case you’d better go through to the study. Hilda went to Freudesheim a while ago – she and Joey were making a call to Madame in Australia – but I’m expecting her back in the next few minutes. Just go on in and make yourselves comfortable,” she waved the two mistresses on towards the Head’s inner sanctum. -- Nancy and Kathie stood together on the carpet from which so many schoolgirl sinners had faced the Chalet School headmistress. “What do you think Hilda wants to see us for?” Nancy looked perplexed. “Don’t know,” the younger woman was close enough to her own schooldays to feel decidedly uncomfortable in this environment, “Unless we’re in trouble for yesterday.” Kathie’s apprehension was double, for the two women had not managed to talk since the play, and she was still somewhat uncertain whether Nancy’s gesture of the previous evening signified more than a return to mere friendship. Nancy saw the fear in her companion’s eyes, and rebuked herself with considerable severity for what she had put Kathie through in the past few weeks. “Surely not,” she said aloud, soothingly, “We were right at the back of the hall – no one could possibly have seen us except Hilda. And anyway, holding hands is hardly a mortal sin,” she added with a slight smile. “Do you think not?” Kathie’s eyes traced the taller woman’s features. “Oh, hardly,” Nancy’s voice was gentle. She held her hands out to her friend, who took them with the faintest catch in her breath. “There. That’s not so bad, is it?” “Not at all,” Kathie’s answer betrayed her hands, which seemed to have a memory of their own and were rediscovering a hundred delightfully familiar sensations. “Well, then.” The younger woman’s heart leapt despite herself. “Do you – do you think it would be wrong to go any further?” She attempted valiantly not to let a note of hope creep into her question, but only half succeeded. “Hard to say,” Nancy’s voice also had a quality that hadn’t been heard for a long time. “Perhaps you should try.” “If you say so,” Kathie extracted her hands gently from Nancy’s, and placed her arms lightly around her friend’s neck. “What about this – would you find this too objectionable?” Nancy curled her arms around her partner’s waist. “No, I don’t think so.” Waves of happiness flooded through the younger woman at this embrace. “Well, this then?” She stood on tiptoe to place the lightest kiss beneath her partner’s ear, “What would you say to that?” “I – mmmm,” Nancy murmured, her cheek brushing softly against her partner’s, “Is that all?” “It doesn’t have to be,” Kathie’s faithful brown eyes regarded her fleetingly, before closing again. “Oh, Nancy,” she whispered after a moment of blissful silence. “You don’t know how much I’ve missed you!” |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 11:21am *happy sigh* Oh, I'm so glad! And what a lovely way for Kathie to find out! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Angel of the North on Dec 12th, 2003, 11:23am waiting for the *ahem* as Hilda walks in... More, please |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 11:31am And I thought I was the only one waiting for that. ;) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 12th, 2003, 12:31pm That was truly moving, Catherine -they're so tender and loving with each other, that how can it be wrong? Please, please, PLEASE, don't let Hilda arrive at an inopportune moment - I just couldn't bear it ... Though have to say, in the Head's study? :o I'm impressed by their daring / foolhardiness (there's a touch of the boss' desk about that ;)) Oh and is anyone else thinking Four Weddings?(when Andie MacDowell and Hugh Grant get together) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Julie on Dec 12th, 2003, 6:11pm now I'm feeling really nervous with butterflies in my tummy waiting for them to be caught *perhaps getting somewhat overinvolved here lol* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Chloe on Dec 12th, 2003, 6:43pm *happy dance* Yay their back together :) Please tell us what happens next Catherine soon! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Carolyn P on Dec 12th, 2003, 6:45pm Hilda has to walk in at that moment. As long as she is going to be nice about it. If she is going to be nasty she can jolly well wait till they are ready for her, even if it is her study. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 7:45pm *bounces impatiently* Well, are we going to find out whether Hilda will walk in on them soon? |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by catherine on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:23pm Come on, Catherine!! Don't keep us in suspense! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:26pm We-ell... there aren't many installments left... I thought perhaps I should ration them out a little ::) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:30pm Never mind that, Catherine. As soon as this one is over, we'll be begging you for a sequel! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:33pm *collapses in horror at KB's suggestion* Do you know, the part since the railway station (i.e. the last 80% of this story) has been entitled "Nancy and Kathie - The Epilogue" on my computer :o ;D |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by catherine on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:33pm Don't ration them, please! As KB says, we'll be wanting a sequel once this is finished!! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:40pm on 12/12/03 at 20:33:40, Catherine_B wrote:
*revives Catherine by throwing a jug of water over her* And why can't it be the epilogue to an epilogue? |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by RachelD on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:44pm Please can we have some more - my computer network is not going to be working from 9.00pm tonight until Mon morning. I really want to know what Hilda's going to do!!!! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:45pm Just for you, then, Rachel... -- “Hello, Rosalie!” Hilda Annersley entered her secretary’s office with a light tread. “Is everything under control?” “So far!” that lady cast a rueful glance at the piles of paper covering the big desk in the office, “I think I’ll make it to Tuesday in one piece – just!” The headmistress and her assistant exchanged understanding smiles. The end of term was always one of the busiest times for both of them. “Oh, by the way, Nancy and Kathie came in a couple of minutes ago,” Rosalie added as an afterthought. “They said you’d asked to see them, so I told them to go through to your study. They’re waiting there for you now.” “Indeed!” Miss Annersley bent thoughtfully over some papers that Rosalie was asking her to sign. Her meaning yesterday had merely been to invite the mistresses for separate end-of-term interviews, but they had evidently interpreted her words as a joint invitation. “Did they say what it was about, Rosalie?” she inquired casually. Her secretary looked surprised, “No – nothing. Why?” “Oh, no reason,” the Head mused again for a second. Though rarely in the staffroom, she was well aware of the dynamics between her staff, and knew all about the tensions between the two mistresses during the past half term. Kathie’s fears to the contrary, her frown the previous evening had reflected nothing more than regret at interrupting what was evidently a private reconciliation. The Head’s brows furrowed again for an instant. Then she straightened up with a slight smile. “In that case, I’ll go on through to the study.” Her voice was distinctly louder than usual. Rosalie stared at her in astonishment. The Abbess was famed for having a voice that reached the furthest corner of any room without any effort, and her secretary simply couldn’t imagine what had caused her to shout like this. Then her mouth formed a perfect ‘O’ of surprise, and she turned an attractive shade of pink as the headmistress winked at her before walking past. Hilda Annersley had no intention of interrupting another intimate scene between her two mistresses! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by RachelD on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:49pm Thankyou very, very much! She has got tact. See you Monday. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by catherine on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:49pm So what's she going to say to them then, Catherine? Is she going to tell them she knows? Come on! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 12th, 2003, 8:58pm *finds that the cold that kept her in bed today has turned into pneumonia due to KB's harsh treatment, and fears that she may not survive to finish this story* :P |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by catherine on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:04pm KB!! Come back and make Catherine better or we'll never get anymore story!! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:09pm Oh .... ow!! ;D The Head winking at Rosalie - haven't we all under-estimated her! Bless her! What a lovely, lovely lady! Catherine, am sending you lots of relevant pneumonia-beating drugs down the airwaves - miraculously they work instantaneously ...... I love Hilda - she's so sweet ... and thoughtful ... and ... and... Can't wait to see what she says though ... Please, please don't keep us in suspense, Catherine - it's pure torture! *throws self before Catherine_B's mercy ...* (seriously - I've got a friend staying for the w/e from tomorrow am so not sure when I can next log-on ...) *bats eyelids hopefully!* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Carolyn P on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:09pm Thank-you Catherine. (is that 2 or 3 words?) (It doesn't matter now anyway?) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:25pm “Ah, good morning, ladies. Thank you for dropping by,” Miss Annersley regarded a slightly flushed Nancy and Kathie with the merest hint of amusement. “I just wanted to have an end-of-term chat with each of you.” “Oh!” Kathie suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to giggle at this unexpected announcement. She didn’t dare look at her partner, “I thought – we thought -” “Would you rather see us separately?” Nancy gave her friend a violent poke as the headmistress walked past them to her chair. Miss Annersley motioned to them to sit down. “No, that’s quite all right,” she studied them meditatively for a moment, before adding, “After all, the two of you do seem to have been jointly involved in most of the trials and tribulations at the school this term.” Kathie wondered inwardly just how much the headmistress knew. Then she decided firmly that discretion was the better part of valour, “It has been a rather tiring term,” she replied in heroically demure tones. “What with the flood at St. Cecilie…” “… and Richenda’s accident,” Nancy chimed in, finding her voice once more after her first shock at Hilda’s remark. “Quite!” The Head said dryly. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by catherine on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:32pm Cath-e -rine! Stop teasing us! This is so good and you know we all want more!! Please? |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lesley on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:34pm Oh this is sooooo good - thank you Catherine for making Hilda so understanding!!!! (Now even more please? Pretty please with sugar on top? ;D) |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:37pm *echoes Catherine's plea* This is quite brilliant but we need more postings and lengthier postings in order to appreciate the sheer scale of brilliance ... *hoping that works ;)* I don't want it to end but need to know MORE ...!! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Chloe on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:39pm Catherine please don't leave it there for too long! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:40pm Well, Rachael, seeing that I'm writing this as I go along tonight, you can either have 'soon' or 'lots' - but not both simulataneously, I'm afraid! ::) OK, I'll save all my energy for one fat installment. It might be late-ish, though! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Sugarplum on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:45pm OOOOOOOh I just read 5 pages in one go ...... I wasn't expecting it to finish LOL ;D Good Old Hilda - at least shes dealing with it discreetly |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:47pm Well, we're in your hands, Catherine ..... ! ::) *resolves to sneak on in the morning if Catherine hasn't posted by logging off time ...* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:51pm on 12/12/03 at 20:58:43, Catherine_B wrote:
*summons Matey from Lesley's story to cure Catherine* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:54pm Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrggghhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!! *runs away screaming* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:57pm It's wonderful how effective that treatment is! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lesley on Dec 12th, 2003, 9:59pm 8oo8oo8oo Yes that'll get any malingerers out of bed in a hurry! More please Catherine - don't care how late - I'm going to Bournemouth tomorrow - and I'm not driving! So can sleep in car! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Today at 12:24am Is this long enough? *exhausted!* -- “Well, let’s get down to business,” Miss Annersley saw the two women’s discomfiture and took pity on them at last. “Nancy, I’m sorry that I have to say the same thing to you every term,” her eyes twinkled as she turned to address the senior maths mistress, “but I’m also glad that your work has been excellent, as always.” “Thank you, Hilda!” the reply was soft, “You know I love teaching.” The two elder women exchanged understanding glances. This term Nancy’s words were truer than ever, for in recent weeks she had found her work a light when everything else was in darkness. “I also appreciate all your hard work in St. Therese’s,” Hilda continued. “I know how many hours of your own time you sacrifice for the girls’ sake, and I couldn’t ask for a more dedicated house-mistress.” She smiled at her listener, then her beautiful voice grew suddenly grave, “All the same, I shouldn’t like you to find your work a burden. You are still young for the responsibilities you hold; please don’t allow yourself to become overwhelmed with cares and duties at school.” “I won’t,” Nancy looked slightly startled. “Good!” Hilda smiled again, “I didn’t mean that as a personal criticism, Nancy. It happened to me at your age, and it took the efforts of a good friend and colleague to rescue me.” There was a moment’s silence. “Fortunately, I think you also have friends who will support you,” the headmistress added softly. Her eyes began to twinkle again, “Kathie and Hilary are very good influences, Nancy, so please listen to them if they ever tell you to stop working!” “Now… Kathie,” the headmistress turned to her Staff Baby with a warm look. “I’ve been very satisfied with your work too, my dear. Vb have been a difficult form this term, especially the new girls, but you’ve handled them with tact and sensitivity. They have much to be grateful to you for.” Kathie, initially daunted at being addressed by the headmistress in front of her partner, found herself blushing at this public praise. “Thank you, Miss Annersley!” “I know you had some doubts at the start of term,” the Head flashed her a vivid smile, “but I hope those have been dispelled. I know it hasn’t been an easy term for you -” Nancy’s blushes suddenly rivalled her partner’s as she recalled how many of Kathie’s troubles she had been responsible for “- but I think you have dealt with your difficulties admirably.” The younger woman returned the smile shyly, “Your advice helped a great deal.” “I’m glad to hear it!” the headmistress’s eyes danced. “Oh, by the way, Rosalind Moore approached me yesterday to suggest that you might like to take one of the senior classes for geography next term.” She regarded the junior geography mistress with one eyebrow raised, “I think you might enjoy it, Kathie. It would be more challenging - intellectually at least - than working with the younger girls.” “Oh! I’d love to,” Kathie face lit up with pleasure at this unexpected proposal. “If my timetable will allow it, that is,” she added hastily. The Abbess smiled at her. “Well, you’ll have to negotiate it with Nancy and Rosalind,” she glanced across at the head of maths, “but I’m sure it can be arranged. Rosalind tells me that Joan Bertram has some spare time and would be happy to take over a couple of your geography classes with the juniors.” Kathie grinned inwardly in pure delight. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lesley on Today at 12:37am Oh goodie - thought if I waited long enough i'd see more! Wonder just how pleased Kathie is going to be informing Joan that she has to give up some of her free time to take over Kathie's classes!!! ;D More please Catherine as soon as you've recovered!! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Today at 12:51am “So, ladies, I think that’s all I have to say,” their headmistress wound up at last. She eyed them slightly quizzically, “Is there anything on your part?” Nancy and Kathie glanced at one another. “No-o,” Kathie said slowly. “Thank you, Miss Annersley, I think that’s all from us too.” “Hmmm.” The headmistress looked thoughtful for a moment. “Well, I hope you both have a lovely Christmas. I understand you’ll be spending the New Year together?” Nancy nodded, privately wondering whether there was anything that Hilda didn’t know, “We’re hiring a cottage in Scotland.” “Excellent,” the Abbess rose to show that the interview was concluded, “I’m sure you’ll have a delightful time.” “Thank you,” the two mistresses got to their feet, taking the hint. They made their way to the door, both thanking their lucky stars for such an interview. “Oh – just one more thing,” the Abbess’s calm voice pulled them up short, just before they reached the door. |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Dorothy on Today at 1:05am Catherine that is so MEAN!! You cannot and may not *no-one's gonna catch me out* leave it there!!! :) Dorothy |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Today at 1:07am Oh, sorry Dorothy, did I forget to post the last line? ::) -- They turned to see her regarding her Staff Baby with a smile. “Kathie, don’t you think it’s time you called me Hilda?” |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Dorothy on Today at 1:12am Ahhhhh!!!!!!! You were just waiting for someone to react! :-[ It's not what I expected :-[ Dorothy |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Lesley on Today at 1:14am Catherine you are a ratbag!!! You have obviously learnt from a master! ;D Looking forward to more whenever *sigh* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Catherine_B on Today at 1:39am :-* Lesley :-* At least I didn't leave you overnight on that one *giggle* Night night! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Tassie_Ellen on Today at 10:00am Oh, Catherine, that was just lovely! I haven't been able to log on for a few days, so have just read almost all this bit in one go, and it's beautiful. Yay for Hilary, Phil and Hilda; Boo for Joan (but even bigger YAY that it looks like her uppance is about to be comed ;D ). Will you be submitting this to Liss for the Fiction page? Ellen *waits eagerly for Catherine's next drabble - but no pressure ::) )* |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Chloe on Today at 10:52am Aww thank you Catherine! |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by Rachael P on Today at 11:08am Tassie_Ellen - this is already headed for the Milk Train site, I think Catherine - magnificent, even if you are a ratbag! That was very, very naughty but very funny! You had us ...! Love Hilda's all-knowing tact and diplomacy! NEXT!! .................................................................... please |
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Title: Re: An Alternative Romance Pt6 Post by KB on Today at 10:05pm Catherine, you're a rotter! And an excellent writer!!! This was a lovely part, and I do adore Hilda when she's like this! |
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