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Stories & Imaginings >> Cookies & Drabbles >> Anna's story
(Message started by: Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:04am)

Title: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:04am
The plot bunny has finally manged to force me to get this one down on paper. The rest of it is written (in my head!) and I'll post it if people are interested and once I get time to write it all down. I also apologise in advance for any misspelling or bad german grammar.

Anna sighed as sat back on her heels and surveyed the wet kitchen floor. It was a hot day and even with all the windows and the door open the kitchen was still uncomfortably hot. Through the open windows came the merry sound of children’s voices as they revelled in the freedom of the summer holidays. A shadow fell across Anna where she still knelt on the floor and she looked up to see her mistress Jo Manyard.
“Anna, I told you to leave that floor alone for today. It is far too hot for such work.” Jo scowled at her and sounded fierce as she spoke.
Anna smiled at her in return, she knew that she was held in deep affection by all the family and that her mistress was only concerned for her. “Ja meine dame, but the floor was dirty.”
“Well seeing as this weather looks set to continue you must take tomorrow and Sunday off. The triplets can help me see to meals and Rosli will look after the younger ones.” Jo smiled at her faithful Anna; “in fact we are going to Berne tomorrow. Come with us if you like. Let me know tonight though if you are.” with that Jo picked up the jugs of lemonade which she had originally come to collect and returned to her lengthy family.
“What took you so long Mamma?” Len the eldest of Jo’s eleven children met her Mother as she came down the path. “I was just coming to see if you needed help.”
“Bless you sweetie pie. I was talking to Anna in the kitchen.” Jo stopped and surveyed her tall daughter, Len had always been grown up beyond her years and had a well developed sense of responsibility.” There is something you can do for me though.” Len looked at her Mother through grey eyes and taking one of the jugs from her said “you sound very serious, what is it?”
“I’ve asked Anna to come to Berne with us tomorrow. Try and persuade her to come will you.”
“Of course I will, but why?” Len gave Jo a puzzled look.
“ Len, I’m trusting you with this because I know you are not a chatterbox, and I don’t think Anna would like me discussing this. I just feel Anna has been a bit down recently. We depend on her so much and have done since before any of you were born and sometimes I worry that we take her for granted occasionally.” Jo looked worried as she said this.
“But Mamma, Anna love us all and we love her. Why she is part of our family.” Len exclaimed.
“I know Len and of course we love her. I just think it might do her good to come out with us tomorrow and have a change of scenery for a while. Now come on lets get this lemonade to the troops before they think we have got lost.” Jo cast a matey grin at her daughter and led the way back to where her family was enjoying the shade of some pine trees.


Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:06am
That evening as Len helped clear the table after dinner she broached the subject of the coming trip with Anna.
“Please come Anna. We would love it if you would. There will be plenty of room as well, Mamma said today it was only us three and Felicity who are going. We three all need clothes for going away to university and Felicity needs new summer frocks, Mamma doesn’t fancy dragging the whole mob of us round the shops in this heat.” Len gave a giggle as she thought of the joy on her brother’s faces when they heard they were to be excused the shopping trip.
Anna looked into the pleading eyes of Len and gave in, although she loved all Jo’s children she had always had a soft spot for Len.
“Very well little one, if it pleases you I will come. I need a new dress of my own.”
“Oh I am glad.” and Len, despite her eighteen-year-old dignity, capered for joy.
“Who’s glad about what?” enquired Margot as she and Con entered the kitchen with the remainder of the dishes.
“Anna is coming to Berne with us tomorrow.” Len told her.
“ That is nice,” Con said in a satisfied tone and Margot beamed at Anna.
Anna smiled at the three girls and was touched that she meant so much to them.

The Maynard family were all up bright and early the next day as they had a long drive ahead of them and Jack was not anxious to have to do this under the midday sun. Eight o’clock saw the travellers packed in Minnie the mini-bus and ready to go.
“Come on Jo for goodness sake. We are only going for a day you know!” Jack called through the window to his wife.
Jo grinned at him and finished kissing her remaining children goodbye before settling herself in the bus.
“Keep your hair on old man. I was just saying goodbye.” she shot an affectionate grin at her husband.
“Shut that door correctly woman. Pain though you may be I’m not quite prepared to lose you going round a sharp corner yet!” Jo laughed and obliged and with a fond look at his wife Jack started the engine and away they went.
Seated in the back of the bus Anna watched the exchange between the doctor and his wife and sighed. The couples love grew for one another with each passing year and they were always happiest when together. Sometimes Anna wished she could have known the joy of having a loving husband and children of her own but it had never happened for her. It was true that when she had lived in England during the war there had been a proposal but she had not truly loved the man and so had turned him down.

The party finally arrived in Berne after an uneventful journey and Jack after kissing his family departed to go to his meeting calling final instructions as he left “be back here at 16 sharp. I don’t want to be too late in getting home.”
Jo watched her husband disappear round the corner and turned to Anna and the girls “how about a cup of coffee before we start?”
Everyone agreed so the party set of to Burnstein’s café, which had the reputation of possessing the finest patisserie and bread in the city, and were soon enjoying hot cups of coffee and crusty rolls with honey. When everyone had eaten and drunk their fill the group departed to make a start on their purchases. Anna had elected to go and do her own shopping for as well as a Sunday dress she wished to find a present for her youngest niece’s birthday. An hour and a half later Anna had succeeded in finding a dress she considered suitable for going to mass in and were considering where her next stop would be. She was unused to the big bustling city and was starting to feel harassed and hot, getting a dress had proved more difficult than she had imagined, as the current fashions had not seemed appropriate to either her years or her church. As she was nearing the café where they had visited earlier she decided that another cup of would refresh her and allow her to better take stock of what to do next. The café had been a quiet, gentile establishment and seemed to be one where a single woman could safely enter alone. Anna made for the door, trying to arrange her handbag, parcel and shopping basket to allow her to enter the somewhat narrow entrance. Just as she came to the door a man came striding out colliding with Anna and sending her, the parcel and handbag flying. A strong hand gripped Anna’s arm in time to prevent her from falling into the road but her dress was not so lucky. As the parcel hit the ground the string had loosened and the dress came tumbling out onto the dusty pavement.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:07am
“Ach, I am so clumsy an oath. See, I have spilled your parcel and hurt you!” the man, gently guided Anna away from the edge of the pavement and then bent to pick up handbag and dress. When the man stood up to return her items Anna found herself being towered over by a veritable giant of a man. Alarmed Anna took a step back, straight into a passer by; again the man gently caught her and steadied her.
“Danke sehn” Anna murmured embarrassed and looking up she saw a kind face dominated by a pair of concerned brown eyes.
“Come, coffee will calm you and we will see if the dress is damaged,” and taking her arm he guided her into the café and installed her in a seat in a quiet corner. “Mitzi, bring coffee and some of our finest cakes for the fraulien,”the pretty waitress smiled at the man  “Ja Herr Burnstein.” and left to return a few moments later bearing a tray containing coffee and cakes for two.
“ Fraulien, if you will allow Mitzi to take away the dress she will inspect it for damage and re-wrap it for you. If the garment is damaged then I must insist upon replacing it for you, for it was my clumsiness which caused the accident.”
Anna tried to protest that no damage had been done and the accident had been as much her fault but seeing that her friendly giant looked so sincere finally allowed the young waitress to depart with the mistreated dress.
“ Now, “continued the man “you will allow me to introduce myself. I am Georg Burnstein and I apologise for my treatment of you and your items.”
“Burnstein? But then..” Anna remembered the sign above the door they had just entered.
“ Ja, this is my humble establishment and I bid you welcome to it.” Georg did indeed look as though he had remained a humble man despite the obvious success of his business.
Anna realising she had not yet told him her name and not wishing to appear rude quickly introduced herself “I am Anna Pfieffen. It is a pleasure to meet you Herr Burnstein.”
Herr Burnstein poured coffee for them and offered the cakes to Anna. Under his friendly attentions Anna found herself telling him all about her life up at the Gornetz Platz and the errands which had brought her to Berne that day. When the young waitress brought her dress back, which fortunately was undamaged, Anna gathered her parcels together and thanked her host.
“Perhaps Fraulien Pfieffen you will permit me to escort you to a charming toyshop that I know, you may be able to find a gift for your niece there?” he enquired tentatively.
Hesitatingly Anna gave the required permission and Herr Burnstein promptly relieved Anna of her bundles before offering her a gallant arm. The pair departed for the toyshop with Herr Burnstein keeping up a pleasant stream of conversation which Anna found easy to respond to. The toyshop was as charming as promised and did indeed yield a delightful wooden Ark and animals for her young niece. Once this purchase had been made it was time for Anna to depart for the hotel where she was to lunch with the Maynard family. Herr Burnstein insisted on escorting her to the hotel which, was located in a busy street and on route suggested that if she had no other plans for the afternoon he would be happy to show her some of the sights of Berne. The flustered Anna was unsure how to answer, after all she scarcely knew the man, however, just they reached the hotel a familiar voice hailed her companion.
“Burnstein old chap, how are you?” and there stood Jack Maynard grinning.
“Why Doctor Maynard this is a delightful surprise. I am very well as you can no doubt see!” Georg grasped Jack’s outstretched hand and pumped it vigorously. It did not escape Anna’s notice that after running a professional eye rapidly over her new friend’s face that Jack did not look too convinced at his statement of his health.
“I didn’t realise that you knew Anna!” jack said quizzically.
Georg had quickly explained the situation that had brought him into Anna’s company when a golden voice exclaimed joyously “Oh Jack, are you able to join us, how wonderful!” and Joey had arrived.  A quick round of introductions and explanations were made and then Jack suggested “Why don’t you join us for lunch Georg?”

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by PatW on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:13am
More please! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by xanthe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:13am
Yay!  Thank you lanswythe!  

*Feels compelled to admit that the words "gold" and "miniskirt" crept unbidden into her mind while reading about Anna's dress hunt*

This is really good though - *all intrigued and eagerly awaiting some more*

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:28am
Kind hearted Joey quickly reiterated the invitation, “yes please do, it was so kind of you to assist Anna with her shopping and I’m sure she would love to have you join us!” which brought a hot flush to Anna’s cheeks, something which did not escape Jo’s notice. Thus pressed Georg agreed to join them for lunch and it was a very merry party who entered the hotel. Over a delicious meal of roast beef followed by ice cream, Jo informed her husband that she had managed to get all Felicity’s dresses but still had the triplets to shop for. “ I don’t know if Felicity is going to manage any more shopping though, I think she has had enough. Haven’t you sweetie pie?” she said smiling down at the flaxen haired little girl.
“Yes Mamma, I’m bored now!” Felicity informed her Mother with extreme candour.
“ Meine dame, I will take the liebchen for the afternoon if you wish.” Anna offered.
“Oh would you Anna, but aren’t you spending the afternoon with Herr Burnstein?” Jo sounded slightly conscious stricken at taking up what was supposed to be Anna’s time off.
“But why do the three of us not go to see the bears? That is if you will entrust your daughter to my care Frau Maynard?” Herr Burnstein suggested, “I will then drive her and Fraulien Pfieffen to your vehicle in my car.”
“That is very kind of you Herr Burnstein,” Jo had no qualms in allowing Anna and Felicity to go with a man her husband had spoken of so highly in the past.
With this agreed the meal continued with general talk before the various groups separated to their own pursuits.
Anna and Felicity spent an enjoyable afternoon watching the bears being fed golden syrup before going to visit a couple of other close attractions which were suitable for Felicity. Georg proved himself to an amusing and informative companion for the young Felicity, who was soon hanging onto his arm and chattering as fast as her tongue would go.
Sixteen hundred hours found Anna and Felicity being deposited back at Minnie where the rest of the family awaited them.
“Well thank you Georg for looking after them, it was most kind of you, “ said Jack shaking Georg’s hand. “And we’ll see you up at the Platz in a week’s time! Take care old chap, good bye.”
Jo and Anna added their thanks and goodbyes before being packed into Minnie and whisked home.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:29am
“Jack, what did you mean when you said you would see Herr Burnstein up here in a weeks time?”  Jo and Jack were sitting in Jack’s study enjoying a rare moment of solitude the following day.
“ Nosy woman!” Jack said teasingly, “as it happens my dear I was going to talk to you about this. Georg Burnstein is coming here to recover from a bad bout of pneumonia. He does a lot of work for charity, helping the poor families and local orphanage. However he tends to help other at expense of his own health and last winter her took a severe cold which turned into pneumonia. He hasn’t recovered as well as his doctor would like, so is coming up here for a rest. He doesn’t have any family so I was rather hoping you might cast a friendly eye to him every so often to make sure he is quite comfortable!” he explained.
“Of course I will Jack, I’m sure Anna will too!” Jo said sweetly.
Jack glanced suspiciously at his wife “Don’t go making mountains out of molehills Jo” he warned, “Anna had a chance to marry before and turned it down and Georg has never shown any inclination that way! He is a very kind and helpful man.”
“ I don’t what I would do without Anna, Rosalie has enough to do with the babies.” Jo said meditatively
“Aye well they aren’t exactly babies now!” Said Jack thinking of four year old Phil and Geoff.
Jo said nothing but merely smiled sweetly before running her hand gently across her stomach. Jack caught the look and gesture “You don’t mean!” he started, then grabbing Jo to him he pulled her onto his knee, one arm protectively round her. “When?” he asked.
“I think about eight weeks ago. I thought it was just my age, but it seems I might get my quads after all!” Jo giggled.
Jack groaned but he kept a tight hold on Jo and his kiss was tender.
“Looks like I’ll have to get used to changing nappies again!” he said.
“Jack Maynard, I don’t think you have ever changed a nappy in your life!” Jo declared.
“I have too! I distinctly remember changing Charles’s nappy once.” Jack sounded injured; Jo giggled as she remembered the occasion and the nappy sliding off as soon as Charles was picked up.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:35am
The following week passed quietly with no excitements beyond Jo contriving to capsize her three tier tea trolley whilst fully laden. Jo’s shrieks had brought her husband running to see a mess of tea, cream cakes and china covering the hall floor and Hilda and Nell, the guests whose tea was currently on the floor, standing open mouthed. Order was quickly restored and Nell and Hilda were soon sitting over fresh tea and lemon biscuits and giggling over Jo’s latest. Saturday finally came and with it the new arrival to the community on the Platz, Georg Burnstein.

On the Sunday Anna rose at six as she did every morning, she would attend the 06:30 mass before coming back to start on the breakfast for the family. Putting on her new dress and pulling a light shawl over her hair Anna set out into the early morning dew for the church. As she drew level with the small chalet Georg had taken for his stay on the Platz she met him coming out of the gate, destined for the same location as Anna.
“Fraulien Pfieffen, how wonderful to see you again.” Georg exclaimed, “Might I walk with you to Mass?”
“Herr Burnstein. Yes, that would be most kind of you.” for some unaccountable reason Anna could feel herself begin to blush and dropping her eyes quickly she took his proffered arm and resumed her walk to the church.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Jennie on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:40am
Please let Anna have a chance of her own happy marriage now, she's done enough housework and cooking for other people.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Rachael P on Sep 2nd, 2003, 10:12am
This is fabulous - I love your ability to switch so easily from the complete OTTness of Pop Idol to straight EBD-style

Good for Anna - I look forward to the wedding scene ...

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ray on Sep 2nd, 2003, 10:30am
Yes - this is wonderful. Very much looking forward to more :) It's definitely time Anna found some happiness :)

Ray *eager for more*

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 10:52am
Their devotions over Herr Burnstein insisted on seeing Anna safely back to the Maynard house. Anna tried to refuse for she was growing alarmed at the increasingly grey pallor appearing in Georg’s face and the shortness of his breathing. Once he had seen her to the kitchen door of the house he turned to leave but Anna would not allow it. Taking a firm hold of his arm she propelled him to a seat beside the big stove and bidding him to rest quietly she set about making him a cup of coffee and heating some rolls for him. Setting this meal in front of him she slipped from the room to find her mistress and explain to her about her guest. Jo was in the Salle with Jack when Anna found her.
“Meine Dame, I hope you do not mind but I have taken Herr Burnstein into the kitchen and given him coffee.” Anna explained.
“Why ever would I mind Anna. You know you are free to take your friends in and give them coffee. Not that you ever do.” Jo said easily.
“Is Herr Burnstein alright Anna?” Jack could see that Anna looked agitated.
“His breathing wheezes and he is so pale!” Anna told him.
“I’ll go and take a quick decko at him,” and Jack headed in the direction of the kitchen and Georg.
Anna went and started to set the table for breakfast to allow Jack the chance to talk to Georg in private. Jack found her here five minutes later, “ He is Ok Anna, the journey yesterday took it out of him more than he realised and then of course he had nothing to eat before going to mass. Keep him here for a while and see he eats something.” Jack smiled reassuringly at her and left her to return to the kitchen. Georg was still sitting in the seat Anna had left him in but he rose quickly as soon as she entered the kitchen and she was relieved to see that his colour had returned.
“ My apologies Fraulien Pfieffen, I have taken up far to much of your time and kept you from your work. I will leave now and thank you for allowing me your company.” Georg looked around for his hat, but Anna mindful of Jack’s instructions had no intention of allowing him to leave just yet.
“You must rest awhile yet. Stay and have some breakfast with me, please.” Anna entreated.
Thus pressed Georg agreed and once Anna had served the Maynard family she made sure that Georg ate a hearty breakfast of porridge, rolls and coffee.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Domino on Sep 2nd, 2003, 10:57am
More more!!! :D

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by LulieCat on Sep 2nd, 2003, 11:00am
Please let Anna have some happiness. I love this.

Is Georg a Jack-type character? He seems to be. We want more Jacks in the world  :) :) :) :) :)

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Esmeralda on Sep 2nd, 2003, 11:11am
Oh yes please let there be a happy ending.....it's time someone found some happiness on this board, and Anna probably deserves it more than most after all those years of hard labour and devotion to the Maynard clan.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 11:29am
The weeks of summer slowly slipped away and Anna and Georg fell into the habit of attending mass together before returning to Freudeshiem for a light breakfast.  Anna found herself looking forward to his company and on one occasion when a light summer chill kept him indoors found herself missing him. On Georg’s part he was very taken with the demure Anna and increasingly began to hope that maybe his long years of lonely bacherlorhood would soon be at an end. Jo was aware of the sweet little romance unfolding for her faithful handmaid and rejoiced for her. Jo herself was in good spirits over her pregnancy although she had suffered from quite bad sickness during her first few months that now seemed to be passing. The rest of the family had been told and all had been overjoyed at the news, all except Len. Jo was puzzled at her eldest daughters somewhat blasé reaction to the news but had been unsure how to broach the subject with her. The triplets would all be leaving in a week’s time for university life and Jo wondered if Len was possibly embarrassed at the thought of having a sister who was so much younger than her when she herself would be a bride shortly. However, Len had shown no such feelings at the birth of Geoff and Phil four years previously and Jo found increasingly lurid thoughts going round her head. Was Len jealous or was she regretting her engagement to Reg and didn’t know how to tell her parents. Len, unaware of her mother’s turmoil, was in fact suffering from a much simpler emotion, worry.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Marianne on Sep 2nd, 2003, 11:51am
ooooo, tell us more, please!

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 12:05pm
Prior to Jo breaking the news of her pregnancy to her eldest daughters, Len had found herself reading a casebook belonging to Reg one day. The book had been about pregnancy and Len had taken the opportunity of finding out a bit more about the mysteries of giving birth. Several of the cases had been about older women giving birth and the problems that the mothers and babies could experience. Reg had arrived back from visiting his patient and Len had thought no more about the matter until her mother had made her announcement. Now she was concerned about the health of her mother and the baby but did not wish to broach the subject with her mother and possibly worry her. It was Reg who ended up solving the problem. He had seen his fiancé become somewhat withdrawn during the past couple of weeks and not being aware of her concern over her mother had begun to worry that she was regretting her engagement. Loving her as deeply as he did he had no desire to make her unhappy and did not wish her to go to Oxford in this frame of mind and for her work there to possibly suffer. Therefore, he determined to discuss the matter with her before she left. His opportunity came on his next day off when he had arranged to take a walk with her.
“Look here Len, you know how I feel about you but are you sure that you are ready to be engaged to me?” Reg began somewhat nervously.
Len turned astonished grey eyes onto her intended, “Reg are you saying you don’t want to be engaged to me anymore?” in her worried frame of mind Len automatically jumped tot he wrong conclusion.
“Good Lord no! You know I’m crazy about you Len. It’s just you have been very subdued recently and I was worried that you were regretting it. You know I would never hold you to anything you didn’t want to do Len, I love you too much to want you to be unhappy!” Reg took a hold of Len’s hands and looked at her with worried eyes. “What’s the matter sweetheart, can’t you tell me?”
Len choked back a sob and burying her head in Reg’s shoulder told him all her worries regarding her mother.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Chloe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 12:18pm
awww thats so sweet i can't wait for more

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Carolyn P on Sep 2nd, 2003, 12:25pm
Reg as a goodie again. Does this mean the SSOR has helped us get rid of all our negative feelings towards the poor boy. ;)

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by xanthe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 1:43pm
Yay, thank you lanswythe, this is brilliant  ;D

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 4:47pm
Reg stood with Len in his arms relieved that she didn’t want to break their engagement and concerned at the worry she was experiencing.
“But Len why didn’t you talk to me or your Father?” he asked.
“I don’t know, I didn’t want to worry people I guess” she confessed.
Pulling her over to some convenient rocks Reg sat Len down.
“Now tell me exactly what you are concerned about and I will try and put you worries at rest!” Reg told her, so Len questioned her fiancé about pregnancy and Reg answered each question honestly.
“Len I won’t pretend that there isn’t an increased risk with pregnancy in older women but your mother is not that old and she has given birth to eleven healthy children over the last eighteen years. She will have the best of care and if there is the slightest worry she will be taken straight to the san. I really think you should speak to your mother, she is probably worrying about you and that isn’t good for her.” Reg finished up. Len nodded her agreement and allowed Reg to pull her to her feet much happier than she had been previously. Len duly had her talk with Jo before leaving for Oxford and the two women were both much happier as a result.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Marianne on Sep 2nd, 2003, 5:06pm
*breathes a sigh of releif*
Can we have some more soon, please?!

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 5:46pm
The summer days melted into autumn, bringing with it winds and rain. The triplets departed for university life and quickly settled into their respective colleges. Jo’s bump continued to grow and the kicking new life became increasingly stronger. Both she and Jack began to suspect that there could be twins on the way again and both were delighted to think that what must surely be the end of their long family could be another double birth. In Anna’s life Georg, as she had been asked to call him, was becoming increasingly important. Her days off were now spent in his company and she frequently found herself being asked to advise over some aspect of the café or his domestic life. It seemed inevitable that Anna and Georg would marry and indeed Georg had commissioned a jeweller to add a single diamond to his own mothers wedding band.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Marianne on Sep 2nd, 2003, 5:59pm
Please make it quads - please, please, please! ;D

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 6:24pm
It was a cold; December day and Jo stood at her study window looking out on the day. She shivered as she watched the sleet lash the garden and the wind howl through he trees. For once she was completely alone in the house, Jack was at the san, the older children were all at school and Rosalie had taken the younger three to the birthday party of another young resident of the Platz. Anna, whose day off it was, had accompanied Georg to Berne to help him decide on some redecoration he was having done in his own house. He had decided that since he was staying on the Platz until the early spring that now would be the ideal chance to have some much needed painting carried out in the house. Since he cherished the hope that a new wife would accompany him upon his return he had decided it would be prudent to ask that lady’s advice. One of the babies moved restlessly inside Jo and she stroked her bump speaking softly to her yet unborn children, “Not long now my darlings. Only another ten weeks till you arrive, I can’t wait to meet you.”
The lights, needed on such a grey day, flickered overhead as a particularly violent gust of wind shook the power lines and Jo realised that she was getting cold standing where she was.
“A warm cardigan and a cup of coffee is in order, I think,” she said to herself and suiting the action to the word she walked carefully upstairs to get herself a cardigan. Once in her bedroom she discovered the pile of mending she had meant to tackle that day, “Oh, bother, I forgot all about that. I suppose I’d better take it with me and make a start on it,” she sighed. So wrapping herself up in a warm cardigan she picked up her mending basket and made her way back down by the kitchen stairs.

Jo had just started down the narrow stairs when the lights gave a final flicker and died.
“Oh bother, blast and confound!” Jo exclaimed crossly. A scampering nearby warned her that the local field mice had been driven inside by the inclement weather. Holding her basket more securely she proceeded slowly down the now dark staircase. Jo negotiated another couple of steps and had just reached the halfway mark when her foot encountered the soft body of mouse underneath her slipper. Instinctively Jo drew back sharply and lost her balance. Wildly she grasped at the banister but her chilly fingers slipped and missed. Screaming, Jo pitched forward and tumbled head first down the stairs, her hands clutched protectively round her bump.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Rachel on Sep 2nd, 2003, 6:30pm
The minute I read that Joey was completely alone in the house I knew you were going to do something nasty to her!

Hurry up and send Jack home from the San!

Rachel ~ fingernail chewing in anxiety

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Chloe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 6:32pm
huh  :o, no don't let her lose the babies or die herself please

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Carolyn P on Sep 2nd, 2003, 6:56pm
Arggg. :o :o :o

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 7:00pm
Jo landed with a thump at the bottom of the stairs; there was a crack and a sharp pain as her ankle twisted underneath her. Reaching weakly for the banister she tried to pull herself upright but the pain in her ankle caused blackness to swim threateningly in front of her eyes. A pain shot across her stomach causing her to whimper and hunch over her unborn babies. Every movement brought fresh pain so Jo gave up on any thought of dragging herself to the telephone in the hallway. For an hour Jo lay on the cold floor drifting in and out of consciousness. Pains, which Jo was now recognising as contractions, were becoming at alarmingly regular intervals and still no help came.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Rachel on Sep 2nd, 2003, 7:02pm
Eeeeeeeeeeeeek!

Please Jack! Hurry up and get to Joey!

Rachel ~ balancing on tenterhooks!

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ray on Sep 2nd, 2003, 7:18pm
*teeters on the edge of chair*

Cmoncmoncmon! More!!! Don't leave us hanging like this! Please?

Ray *feeling the chair slip away from her*

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by xanthe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 7:22pm
*dancing on tiptoes for more*

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Chloe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 7:38pm
that isn't xan it's me dancing with excitment i didn't notice she'd changed user as she was susposed to only be checking a letter so i just noticed that i'd been posting as her :-[

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 7:46pm
Anna had an enjoyable day in Berne; Georg’s house had proved to be a charming, spacious chalet in a quiet residential area. Anna had helped him to pick paint and paper for the main rooms and had even advised on the recovering of the salle couch. Georg had sought her opinion on the various rooms and had taken great joy in having the woman he loved help arrange his home. Driving her home in the late afternoon they shared memories of their childhood with one another and the journey passed quickly. Pulling up to the door of Freudeshiem Anna thanked Georg for the wonderful day before making a dash through the rain for shelter. Entering the house Anna was struck by how silent it was and in passing the salle she saw that the fire had burnt very low. Greatly wondering Anna went through to the kitchen, removing her outdoor clothes as she went. There on the floor lay Jo, moaning piteously and clutching her stomach.
“Meine dame, meine dame!” Anna shouted rushing to her mistress’s side.
“Anna, my babies. Get Jack!” Jo begged.


There you go, help has arrived!

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Chloe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 7:52pm
huh please you have to post more tonight, if been adding to what the furture holds today so not keeping up propperly, but i'm taking a break now so want to sit back an enjoy what someone else has to write ;D

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 8:31pm
Outside in his car Georg noticed that Anna had left her umbrella. Driving round to the kitchen door he jumped out in time to hear Anna’s shout. Without standing on ceremony he dived through the kitchen door and found Jo lying there with Anna by her side.
“Your phone where is it?” he asked rapidly.
Dumbly Anna pointed to the hallway and Georg rushed out to phone for an ambulance. Anna went and pulled a couple of picnic rugs from the cupboard and quickly wrapped Jo in them, then holding her in her arms she murmured soothing words.
“The ambulance is on its way and Herr doktor Maynard is coming with it,” Georg came back into the kitchen.
Jo smiled faintly when she heard her husband was on his way then lapsed into unconsciousness, which lasted until the ambulance arrived fifteen minutes later.

Jack sat in his office waiting for news, his lips moved silently as he prayed to the Lord to save his wife and babies. Jo had been in the operating theatre for the past hour whilst the surgeons worked frantically to save her unborn children. A nurse had taken him a cup of coffee but it lay untouched on his desk.  The door opened and Jack sprang up as Eugene Courosier entered the room.
“Well?” Jack demanded.
“We had to perform a caesarean Jack, we couldn’t stop the labour. Jo is still under the anaesthetic and won’t waken for a couple of hours. It was two girls Jack.” Eugene told him.
“Are…are they ..” Jack couldn’t finish the question.
Eugene sat down looking suddenly weary.


I'm off to walk the dogs;. :)

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ray on Sep 2nd, 2003, 8:34pm
OK.

No.

Ianswythe this is cruelty to dumb CBB'ians.

You canNOT leave us hanging like this. Not for long.

Would it help if I started grovelling?

Ray *grovels anyway*

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Chloe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 8:35pm
No thats evil and wrong can't somoen else walk the dogs :(

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Rachel on Sep 2nd, 2003, 8:50pm
Ianswythe you get back here right now and tell us what Eugene is about to say! How dare your dogs require walking! I don't know if I'm supposed to be sobbing or cheering yet so am swithering between emotions! How could you do this to me?

Rachel ~ Hanky in one hand, whiskey in the other, typing with her teeth

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Chloe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 8:56pm

on 09/02/03 at 20:50:13, Rachel wrote:
Rachel ~ Hanky in one hand, whiskey in the other, typing with her teeth

intresting talent you have :)

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Rachel on Sep 2nd, 2003, 8:59pm

on 09/02/03 at 20:56:57, Chloe wrote:
intresting talent you have :)



You should see what I can do with my legs!

Rachel ~ with an "interesting" medical condition called "Benign Gross Joint Hypermobility Syndrome" that makes all my joint bend backwards in case you wondered   ;D

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:06pm

Quote:
You should see what I can do with my legs!


!!!!!!!!!! Now, now there may be minors on this board!!!!

Do you want some more?


“Jack they are alive but they are very weak. I think it would be best if you called for the priest and had them baptised quickly.”
Jack’s face paled and he felt the tears well up in his eyes.
“Jack there is one other thing. Jo injured herself quite badly and she bled internally, heavily. I’m sorry but we had to perform a hysterectomy or we could have lost her!”
Jack bowed his head, tears rolling down his cheeks.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Rachel on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:08pm
Hear that twanging noise?

It's my heartstrings!

Poor Jack and Joey   :'(  I do hope someone is going to survive the aftermath?

Rachel ~ wondering whether she would like to see Joey survive or not

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ray on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:11pm
Ianswythe I hope there's more coming soon.

Ray *hoping for a miracle and borrowing from the communal tissues*

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:26pm
Eugene clasped him gently on the shoulder before leaving him to his grief.  Forcing himself to remain in control Jack rose and went to make the necessary arrangements to have his two youngest children baptised. Then going to the special room where the two little girls were being kept warm he saw his daughters for the first time.
The tears flowed again as he watched the two frail little babies struggle to cling to life. Blue veins showed through their translucent skin but other than that they were perfect. One twin was slightly stronger than the other was but both looked pitifully weak

The Priest entered the room, ready to baptise the babies. Clasping Jack’s hand he tried to convey some strength to the distraught father.
“Have you decided on names, Jack,” Father Dominique asked.
“Names?” Jack sounded confused. He and Jo had discussed possible names but had not decided on anything concrete. Now Jo was still asleep from her anaesthetic and names had to be picked urgently.
“Lilly Anne” said Jack pointing to the first twin “and Rose Anne” indicating the other.
The Priest performed the baptism ceremony for the twins, then glancing at Jack he gave them the last rites.


By the way I have not got a clue regarding the history of incubators and premature baby survival in the 60's so if I'm being horribly innaccurate then I apologise.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Rachel on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:31pm
That was gorgeous - even though you stole my names for the twins!

Rachel ~ hunting madly for a dry corner on her hanky

(Where's Miss A when you need her? Or a kindly Head Girl with a box of tissues?)

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Chloe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:31pm
if you can't save them both at least save one and let it be Lily Anne as i prefer the name, pretty please :)

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by LulieCat on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:37pm
I don't think the outlook was good. Incubators were around for baby chicks and so on, but I don't know if they were used in hospitals or not.

When I was born in 1976, at 14 weeks early I was considered something of a miracle because not only did I survive, I survived with no brain damage or anything of that kind. Four years earlier my borther was born prematurely and didn't survive, but girls are better at surviving than boys.

From what you've written, though I'm no expert, I think the weaker of Joey and Jacks baby twins has a lot bleaker outlook than the stronger. It all depends how evil you and the plot bunny are feeling today  :)

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:46pm
Jo came round from the anaesthetic to find her leg in plaster and any chance of ever bearing another child gone. Gently Jack broke the news to her about the perilous state of the twin’s health.
“I want to see my babies Jack,” was all Jo said.
Jack arranged for Jo to be wheeled along in her bed to the twin’s room, there she lay beside them watching her tiny babies. Eugene came back to check on the babies’ progress but it was clear that little Rose Anne was quickly becoming weaker. Shaking his head at Jack he said softly, “I’m sorry Jack, it is just a matter of time.”
“Let me hold her, please,” Jo’s voice broke as she made the request but her eyes remained dry.
Jo was propped up against some pillows and the small bundle was lifted from her crib and handed to her mother. Jack and Jo sat together cradling their little Rose as her life slowly slipped away. Five hours after she had entered the world Rose Anne Maynard quietly left it.


Ok, especially for Chloe I have saved Lilly instead of Rose. I even edited the earlier post regarding the names to make it fit! I'm all heart me!

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by COS on Sep 2nd, 2003, 9:55pm
Incubators were certainly around in 1971 as I was in one then!  I weighed 3 lb 4 and a half oz.

Caroline - who has more than made up for it since then!

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Lesley on Sep 2nd, 2003, 10:02pm
Babies survive even without. My grandmother born 1902 weighed 2 pounds at birth!

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Carolyn P on Sep 2nd, 2003, 10:05pm
Reaching for the communal tissues.

Do you realise how many weepies we seem to have on the go at the moment?

Are we all feeling hormonal, or sad, or in need of chocolate, or is it pure co incidence.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Marianne on Sep 2nd, 2003, 10:09pm
Oh really? did you have to kill one of them????

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Rachel on Sep 2nd, 2003, 10:09pm
I'm concerned about baby Lilly - she's had the last rites performed on her too.  Does that mean her survival is only temporary?

Rachel ~ off to hunt out more tissues, more chocolate, and more coincidences

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by xanthe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 10:36pm
*makes strangled sobbing noise and reaches for the communal tissues*

wargh, lanswythe this is TOO sad  :'(

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 10:48pm
Jo was taken back to her room shortly afterwards and, despite her protests, was given something to make her sleep. Jack, after phoning Anna to tell her the news, spent the night sitting by his remaining daughter’s side. As the grey light of dawn started to appear Lilly Anne still managed to retain her tentative hold on life. Jo woke late in the morning but did not ask to see her daughter. When Jack went to visit her prior to going home to change his clothing and freshen up he was shocked at the dead look in her eyes and the lack of emotion she displayed when told of Lilly Anne. Unable to get through to her the grieving Jack returned to Freudeshiem, knowing that he must inform his other children of the tragedy their family had suffered.

When he arrived home an anxious Anna greeted him. With as few words as possible Jack told her what had happened. Georg, who had come over to help Anna and Rosalie to look after the children and run any errands the family might need, appeared behind Anna.
“Jack, I am sorry for your loss. If there is anything I can do to help you, please just ask,” Georg said sympathy deep in his voice.
“If I write some telegrams would you send them for me please. I must get back to the san as soon as possible. But I must let the family know first, the triplets and boys will have to come home early for the funeral.” Jack’s voice broke as he said these words, but hastily he pulled himself together. “Jem and Madge are in Australia and Dick is in Ireland. I wish they were in England to help the kids on the journey, but the triplets will have to manage.”
“Jack if it will help I will go to England and see the young ones safely home” Georg offered.
“Georg, if you would it would greatly relieve my mind. Thank you.” Jack clasped Georg’s hand before going to change his clothing and freshen up.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Chloe on Sep 2nd, 2003, 11:01pm
thank you for saving Lily anne its not that i don't like the name rose as it's noe of my middle names but rose anne together annoys me for some reason ???

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Kathryn on Sep 2nd, 2003, 11:47pm
Please, pretty please, no more deaths in this thread. It is lovely.
*reaching for the communal tissues*

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Esmeralda on Sep 3rd, 2003, 1:06am
*sobs*  I just knew something was going to go wrong - but I dudn't expect it to be this.  
Am also a bit concerned about Geotg going to England - he is well enough to undertake such a journey I hope?

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Susan on Sep 3rd, 2003, 2:38am
What a fantastic story.

Sue replacing the communal tissues after using the last one

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 3rd, 2003, 9:19am
Jack returned to the san after a meal and a short rest, he had planned on just freshening up but Georg and Anna had insisted that he needed to rest in order to be of any help to his wife and daughter. Lily’s condition had not altered but she had now survived longer than the doctors had hoped for and Jack experienced a faint burst of hope. However, as a doctor he knew that there was still a long way to go before she could be considered as firmly in the land of the living. It was Jo who was causing Jack the most worry. Since Rose had died in her arms Jo had not asked to see her other daughter or even wondered how she was. She just lay in her bed staring with blank eyes out of the window. When Jack explained to her about the hysterectomy she turned her face away and said nothing, her face devoid of emotion. Jack sighed and returned to his little girl praying as he went for God to help both Jo and Lily. Two days crept slowly past with Jack alternating his time between Jo and Lily and grabbing what sleep and food he could.

Georg prepared for his trip to England to bring the older Maynard children home, his heart heavy as he remembered his earlier conversation with Anna. Unwilling to broach the subject of marriage at a time when the family she cared so much about were undergoing so much heartbreak he had nonetheless still wanted Anna to be aware of his feelings before leaving. Anna had listened to his faltering attempts to declare the love he felt for her, then choking back a sob had told him “I love you but I can not leave the Maynards, not now, they need me!” before running from the room with tears streaming down her face. The box containing the ring he so wanted to give to Anna weighed heavily in the pocket of his jacket as sadly he picked up his bag and left for the airport.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Chloe on Sep 3rd, 2003, 9:27am
*lying crying into pillow tissues just too far away*
:'( :'( :'(

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ray on Sep 3rd, 2003, 9:30am
I had a feeling this might be how things were going to go. Beautifully written.

Looking forward to seeing more.

Ray *glad she's alone in the office today so she doesn't have to hide the fact that she's crying*

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Rach on Sep 3rd, 2003, 9:36am
Sue - you've used the last tissue - am I going to be sniffing all day at work?  I think I'm going to have to log off before my colleague comes back into the room or there'll be tears all over my keyboard!

It's another beautiful story - please make it work out for Anna....

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 3rd, 2003, 11:31am
The third day after Lily’s birth and Jack was greeted with some good news upon entering the san, Lily had gained a small amount of weight and her pulse was stronger. The doctors and Jack began to hope that this tiny baby who had fought so valiantly might just make it. Jack sped along to Jo’s room to tell her the good news hoping that it might just shake the icy wall Jo had built up around herself but all Jo said when told was “Oh”.  Jack looked at his wife lying in her bed, her face pale except where it still showed the bruises from her fall and felt a longing to shake her and scream at her that he too was grieving for the loss of their child. Clenching his hands together Jack turned and left the room leaving Jo alone in her misery.

The following day saw the triplets and boys come home. Georg had looked after them well on the trip, comforting them when they wept and answering their questions regarding the accident. Len had taken the news especially hard and had been inclined to blame herself for leaving her mother at a time when she may have needed her. Georg firmly pointed out to Len that she could not have stopped the accident from happening and that such notions were neither helpful to her father and mother nor healthy for herself. Len recognised the truth in his words and put such thoughts behind her, greatly to the relief of Jack who knew his eldest daughter well. Jack greeted his children with tender kisses; Felicity came home from the Chalet School where she had remained until now so the family was together. In some ways this made the absence of Jo seem even more acute, she should have been preparing excitedly for Christmas and looking forward to the birth of her babies. Instead she was lying in the san, one baby dead and the other still far from being safe.

Rose Anne was buried five days after she died. The funeral was held in the san church and the building was packed with people come to show their grief for the Maynard’s loss. Jo did not seem to care if she was there or not but Jack did not give her the option. Knowing that one day she would regret it if she did not say goodbye to her little girl he ordered that she be placed in a wheelchair and taken to the service. There was no question of her attending the burial for the snow had come and Jo herself was still far from recovered. The small church had been prepared for Christmas, the manger scene was in place and the place smelt of incense and holly. The small white coffin lay in front of the altar, a circlet of holly intertwined with fifteen Christmas roses, one for each Maynard, was the only decoration Jack had allowed. The mourners silently took their places, Jo sat in her wheelchair staring stonily ahead only the agitated twisting of her slim hands giving away any of the anguish she was suffering. The priest kept the ceremony short reminding all that one day they would be reunited in the Lord’s care. The reading was given and then Len, Margot, Con and Felicity rose and took their places at the front of the church.  Singing in perfect harmony their young voices rose to the high vaulted ceiling of the church as the four girls sung the beautiful words of  Silent Night, a tribute to the baby sister they would never know in this life. As the sweet voices rose the wall Jo had built round herself to protect her from her loss broke and burying her head in her husbands shoulder Jo sobbed for her dead child and for the little twin fighting so valiantly.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ally on Sep 3rd, 2003, 11:44am
That's so beautiful  :'(

I need one of those tissues

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Vikki on Sep 3rd, 2003, 11:55am
*sobs*
*goes off to find some more tissues!* :'( :'( :'( :'(

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 3rd, 2003, 12:56pm
Jo’s storm was a violent one and when she was finally more composed she asked to see Lily. She was allowed a brief look at her and then was returned to her own bed and given something to help her sleep. Jack, with his mind much relieved over Jo, carried his daughter’s tiny coffin to the graveyard for burial. His own composure cracked only once as they tried to take the casket from him. Clutching it to him his body shook with sobs and it was Con who gently loosened his grip from it before taking him in her arms and holding him close. The burial over the family returned home and prepared to try and make Christmas a joyous occasion for the young Cecil, Phil and Geoff.

Jo returned home on Christmas Eve, still weak but happier in her mind now that she had allowed herself to grieve. The news of Lily continued to be promising with her gaining in weight and strength every couple of days. Even so it would be some time before she would be able to leave the San. Christmas passed quietly for the family, they tried to make it a merry occasion for the children’s sake but it was difficult for the adults to keep the pretence up. It was at this time that Jack noticed that Georg did not seem to be such a frequent visitor to the house. Jack had been very grateful to Georg for seeing his children safely home from England and as a result felt an interest in the man’s happiness. Not wishing to question either Georg or Anna regarding their personal affairs he resolved to try and find out what had gone wrong with such a promising relationship. It was the New Year before Jack was able to find out what had occurred between the pair. The 1st of January had seen Jo and Jack able to hold baby Lily for the first time. She was now three weeks old and they were only able to hold her for a minute each but it had brought great joy to the couple. Jo was now able to move about slightly on crutches and feeling more positive by being able to hold her baby decided to invite a few friends to thank them for the help they had given during the difficult times. Georg was one of the small group invited but when Jack went to issue the invitation he had been surprisingly reluctant to accept.
“Look old chap, I know it is none of my business but I can’t help but notice that neither yourself or Anna are looking very happy these days. Would it help to talk about it?” Jack asked kindly.
Georg looked into Jack’s warm blue eyes and found himself telling him all about Anna’s refusal to leave the family at such a difficult time.
“Her dedication to you and your wife is such that she feels she can not abandon you. She is truly a noble and wonderful woman! But sadly it hurts us both too much to see one another and so I have stayed away.” Georg informed him.
Jack sat in silence, a feeling of guilt rising in him at the thought of Anna putting her happiness aside for his family.


Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ray on Sep 3rd, 2003, 1:01pm
This is truly beautifully done. I've gone through several tissues this morning and I suspect I'll go through a few more before you've done.

Looking forward to more

Ray *touched*

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Susan on Sep 3rd, 2003, 2:21pm
Ianswythe this is a truely beautiful story. But please try and make it work for Anna - she deserves it.

Rach I did replace the tissues when I used the last. Someone else must have used them all before I got here this morning. However we have some nice ones in the Staff shop I'll go and get a new box when I have my break. In fact as they are on special offer I'll get a few boxes or would kitchen roll be better the way we are going? I didn't dare leave reading all these until tonight as I am out again and was up till after 3 this morning reading all the drabbles, so I am trying not to sob out loud for fear of attracting attention from the Security guys.  My boss has just rung me from Manchester - hope he couldn't tell I was nearly in tears on te phone.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Rach on Sep 3rd, 2003, 2:30pm
Thank you so much for the tissues, Sue, I've found them now and my keyboard is drying out.

And thank you for the story Ianswythe - it's lovely, and now that Jack is aware of Anna's feelings I hope he can manage to make both her and Joey happy.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Chloe on Sep 3rd, 2003, 2:30pm
i just spoke to my dad on the phone and paniced him as i was in tears :-[, but he said it must me good as i don't normally let films or books, etc affect me :)

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Marianne on Sep 3rd, 2003, 3:54pm
Don't blush Chloe, crying is grand!

This is a beautiful story.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Carolyn P on Sep 3rd, 2003, 5:01pm
This is beautiful. I hope things work out for Anna.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by xanthe on Sep 3rd, 2003, 6:39pm
:'( *sniffling quietly* :'(

this is too sad...

brilliantly written lanswythe

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 3rd, 2003, 7:29pm
“Georg I don’t know what to say. I’m sorry I had no idea that Anna felt that way. Please accept our invite and allow us to try and do something to put the matter right,” Jack said.
“Ah Jack, my intention was not to make you feel guilty. My Anna is a very loyal woman and she is very attached to your family, it is for these very qualities that I love her. But you must forgive me for being selfish and wishing to steal her away, I am not a young man and I am often lonely, I never thought I would find someone like Anna.” Georg told him with a smile.
Jack rose to leave “I promise I will do everything I can to make sure that you get your Anna.”



Short post because the dog keeps pulling out the network cable and generally being a pest! >:(

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 3rd, 2003, 9:48pm
“Georg I don’t know what to say. I’m sorry I had no idea that Anna felt that way. Please accept our invite and allow us to try and do something to put the matter right,” Jack said.
“Ah Jack, my intention was not to make you feel guilty. My Anna is a very loyal woman and she is very attached to your family, it is for these very qualities that I love her. But you must forgive me for being selfish and wishing to steal her away, I am not a young man and I am often lonely, I never thought I would find someone like Anna.” Georg told him with a smile.
Jack rose to leave “I promise I will do everything I can to make sure that you get your Anna.”

Jack walked home pondering the problem of how to persuade Anna that she should put her happiness first.
“I can’t ask Joey to interfere, she is still not strong after everything she has been through,” Jack mused to himself.
Jack arrived back at Freudeshiem having still not come to a solution. He did not wish to speak to Anna about the matter as he had a horror of women’s tears and had no idea of how she would react. For the rest of the week he gave the matter considerable thought but to no avail, Jack could not see how he was supposed to solve this problem.

Strangely enough it was Joey who ended up putting the matter right, albeit unknowingly. Since Jo’s physical scars had started to improve and she no longer needed to rest so much she had found that the time hung heavily on her hands and she was apt to dwell on her loss. In order to combat these feelings she had taken to joining Anna in the kitchen as she worked and had begun to notice that her maid seemed to be in very low spirits. Not realising what had occurred between Anna and Georg she assumed that Anna was grieving over the loss of Rose. A long chat with the Priest had helped to put Jo on to the road of acceptance and now she sought to convey some of these feelings to Anna.
“You know Anna despite everything that has happened I really am an extremely lucky woman!” Jo began casually on the day her guests were coming.
“Luck Frau Maynard?” Anna stopped in the act of making up sandwiches and looked at her mistress in a puzzled manner.
Jo finished filling a tray of hollow buns with cream before continuing, “Yes lucky. No matter how short a time I had Rose for I still thank God that I had her at all. Rose will always be a part of me and I will mourn and love her always, but I have a wonderful husband and my twelve beautiful children still with me. So many women never know the love that I have known, so yes, I consider myself fortunate. I am glad that you and Georg have found one another Anna, very glad.” Jo rose and leaning heavily on her stick, limped from the kitchen leaving Anna alone.
Anna sat down on a chair deep in thought, she stayed like this for some time and when she finally rose her eyes were sparkling and it appeared as if a great weight had been lifted from her shoulders.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by xanthe on Sep 3rd, 2003, 9:53pm
Thank you lanswythe - just read last installment to Chloe, who reckons 17 is NOT too old for a bedtime story!

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Marianne on Sep 3rd, 2003, 9:54pm
Tisn't!

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by LulieCat on Sep 3rd, 2003, 10:29pm
And neither's 26. I need somebody to read me a bedtime story, Xanthe, puh-leeeeease?

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Carolyn P on Sep 3rd, 2003, 10:46pm
What about 35. It's a long time since anyone read me a bedtime story.  :'(

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by KB on Sep 4th, 2003, 12:14am
*KB comes back from her prolonged hunt in the Head Girl's study for the jumbo-sized box of tissues she had been keeping there for just such an occasion*

Ianswythe, this is a beautiful, gentle story. Thank you so much for writing it and please don't keep us in suspence for too much longer.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Esmeralda on Sep 4th, 2003, 12:41am
Aah, lovely, and there is going to be a happy ending after all.
There is, isn't there? Please?

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Kathryn on Sep 4th, 2003, 1:19am
There better be, otherwise....

Anna deserves some happiness after her long life of running after the Maynard kids. A bit like Grizel and Neil, both lonely people finding the comfort and security at a later stage in life.


Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 4th, 2003, 9:09am
Jo’s guests arrived promptly at fifteen hundred hours. Jack had flatly refused to allow her to host a large gathering so there was only Hilda, Nell, Biddy and Eugene beside Georg. Anna wheeled the laden tea trolley into the Salle, her heart beating fast at the thought of seeing Georg again. As she entered the room she felt Georg’s eyes on her and lifting her head she sent a smile full of love straight at him. Georg stood up as Anna left the room,
“Excuse me Frau Maynard, I have a small matter to attend to,” then without waiting he went to claim his Anna.
“Well” said Jo; “it looks like I’ll have to find someone else to help in the house!”
Georg did not return to the Salle for the rest of the afternoon. Once her guests had left Jo pushed the trolley along to the kitchen. There she found the pair, Anna with a diamond sparkling on her hand, staring adoringly at one another.
“Oh Anna, congratulations,” and Jo swept her into a warm embrace.

Anna was married in the small church on the Platz three months later. Jack did the honours of giving the bride away, whilst Jo sat cradling baby Lily, who had finally been allowed home the month before, in her arms. After the ceremony the new Frau Burnstein placed her simple bouquet of spring flowers on Rose’s grave, an act which brought tears to Jo’s eyes, before leaving on her honeymoon to Austria.


Jo sat with the eighteen month old Lily on her knee. Despite her traumatic start in life Lily was now a thriving toddler. As with all Jo’s children she had a colouring uniquely her own, golden brown curls covered her head and she looked out on the world through eyes of tawny green.
“Well I must say you are looking exceptionally pleased with yourself!” Jo said.
Anna leant back against her pillows and she did indeed have a very self-satisfied smile on her face.
“Yes, I am very happy,” she agreed.
A small mew of a cry came from the cradle by her side and she reached over and picked up her newborn daughter. Georg entered the room, a large smile on his face, sitting by his wife’s side he kissed her gently.
“So Frau Maynard, what do you think of our beautiful children?” he asked picking up his little son from the cradle.
“They are just that, beautiful” Jo told them as she looked at the happy couple sitting there with their twin babies in their arms. “What are you calling them?”
“They are to be Marie Anna and Friedel Georg” Anna told her, “I am a very lucky woman!”

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ray on Sep 4th, 2003, 9:16am
Very nice.

Ray *borrowing another tissue*

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Rachel on Sep 4th, 2003, 9:17am
Awwwwwwwwwwww bless!   :D

I had been thinking that maybe Anna would just be able to scrape in at least one baby (she is described somewhere as not being that much older than Joey isn't she?!) but she got twins! Ah well, I suppose you couldn't really give her Joey's quads!   ;)

Rachel ~ happy lickle bunny

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by KB on Sep 4th, 2003, 9:21am
I confess, I was quietly hoping for her to have quads. It would have been nice to see someone best Joey. But it was a very lovely ending. Thank you.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by keren on Sep 4th, 2003, 10:00am
beautiful story, please put on the story bit on the site.
I must admit i held off crying till the part where she put the wedding bouquet on the grave

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Vikki on Sep 4th, 2003, 10:50am
This really is beautiful Ianswythe, it generally takes a lot for a story to move me to tears, and you managed it!
*wades through a mound of soggy tissues*

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Carolyn P on Sep 4th, 2003, 11:04am
Thank you for giving this a happy ending.

It is a lovely piece and the touch of the Flowers on the grave was wonderful.

I'm glad the babies were not named after Joey.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Rachael P on Sep 4th, 2003, 2:48pm
Wonderful - thank you

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by xanthe on Sep 4th, 2003, 3:24pm
lanswythe, thank you so much, this was brilliant, and I loved the end  :)

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Chloe on Sep 4th, 2003, 5:22pm
thank you soooo much it was such a moving story :) :'(

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ianswythe on Sep 4th, 2003, 5:27pm
Aw gee shucks, thanks everyone!

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Lesley on Sep 4th, 2003, 6:52pm
Wonderful, thank you Ianswythe.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Susan on Sep 5th, 2003, 12:11am
Thank you Ianswythe, a lovely moving story with a satisfyingly happy ending.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Esmeralda on Sep 5th, 2003, 12:23am
Thank you for the lovely story and the happy ending Ianswythe.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Jennie on Sep 5th, 2003, 12:10pm
Are you going to be writing Rosli's Babies next, Ianswythe? It would be very good if you did, I'm sure it would be just as touching and heart-wrenching.

Title: Re: Anna's story
Post by Ally on Sep 5th, 2003, 2:57pm
That was wonderful, thank you.  :D



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