Dreams of Love and Intrigue

Compilation of Short Stories By Greta Ann Hughes

Contents
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Sofias Tale.....................................................................3 - 9 Kitty's Life......................................................................11 - 15 Saving Lucy....................................................................17 - 25 When Darkness Falls......................................................27 - 50 Money Can't Buy You Love...........................................52 - 65 Annie's Lost Love...........................................................67 - 163 A New Life Begins.........................................................165 - 180 There's Something In The Hedgerow.............................182 - 221 Megans Comeback........................................................223 - 233 My Time To Live...........................................................235 - 254 Spring Time Love..........................................................256 - 266 The Dog Walker............................................................268 - 284

Copyright Greta Ann Hughes 2012

The right of Greta Ann Hughes to be identified as the author of this work has been asserted by her.

Sofias Tale

By

Greta Ann Hughes

Sofias Tale

Sofia awoke with a start. What had the dream meant? Could her darling Jeremy have been taken away from her just as she had got to know him again?

It had been a very lonely month without him. She had started to do some of the things that had been put to one side around their new home. It was an old farmhouse, which hadnt been lived in for a long time. The main part of the house needed very little doing to it. A good clean from top to bottom and paint to brighten the rooms. The ceilings were high, with old-fashioned chandeliers, giving the place a look of grandeur, even though the house was way out in the country.

Jeremy had been the one to find the house. He had an eye for the unusual and was good at bargaining. They got the place for a song, even though Sofia felt very sorry for the old lady selling the property. It had been in her family for a long long time, but she had fallen onto hard times and with her health not being as good as it used to be, she was having to move out into a nursing home. With the little savings that she had and the sale of her home, she would be able to live at the nursing home without too little discomfort.

The house was called Theodora, which the old lady was named after. She told a tale of a sinister death, where even today the ghost was supposedly still seen. The death had been that of her great great grandfather, who after riding home late one evening came upon two vagabonds breaking down the front door. Behind this hid his wife, Matilda, so frightened that they would gain entrance and kill her and her darling son Frederick.

He beat one off quite easily, as the thief didnt expect the sudden attack from behind. The other one had time to gain his ground and pull out the knife from the belt around his waist. He plunged the knife straight into the heart. There was no chance that he could have survived such a wound as that. He died almost at once, but as he lay there, he uttered a curse that who so ever may raise a hand against any female who was to live in the house from that day on, he would haunt, hunt and finally kill the assailant.

So having been told this and being young as they were, they paid no heed to the story.

Yet again Jeremy had been working late, there was always some urgent deadline to be met. You would think that in this day and age of the computer, the internet and e-mail, that the day to day running of an office should be easy. But this was not so. People still kept things to themselves until the last moment. Running in and wanting the job doing without even a thought for anyone else. And as usual, it fell on Jeremy to sort the problems out.

On this particular day he had had enough. Why couldnt they for once think of the one they were dropping this off on? He rang Sofia to say that he was going to be late home, yet again. He may even stop off on his way home for a quick drink to try and wind down from the days mental stresses.

By the time Jeremy arrived home it was very late. He blundered about in the living room. He shrugged off his coat and left it where it fell. He went straight to the drinks cabinet and filled a tumbler full of whiskey. Damn it all, if he was going to get drunk, he

might as well do it properly. There was a note left on the coffee table from Sofia saying that whatever time he arrived home to wake her and she would be there for him. She knew the problems he had at work and said that she was always there to listen to him. She wanted nothing to come between them.

They had such a close relationship that at times it was as if they were Siamese twins. During the last couple of months since finding out that they were to have the baby that Sofia wanted so badly, they had been almost inseparable. It came as such a shock to Sofia that Jeremy had hit out at her with such a force, that she stumbled back against the oak cabinet and finally came to in the early hours of the next morning. Shivering in the cold as the heating had gone off, she made her way unsteadily to their bedroom. Unsure of whether to go in or not, Sofia hesitated at the doorway, then turned and walked into the bedroom at the far end of the house. This room was still unfurnished and was mainly used as a storage room until they had finished off the main part of the house. She lay down on the unmade bed, covered over only by her dressing gown. She wept silently, the tears coursing their way down her cheeks, to leave damp patches on the bare pillow.

When Sofia awoke the next morning, she wondered where she was. Finally fully awake she went hurriedly to their bedroom. Jeremy had gone. His clothes were still where he had dropped them the previous night. She wondered again, why he had reacted like he had. It was so unlike him. Although he was given to outburst verbally, always against others and not her, this had been so uncharacteristic. She went through the daily chores in a semi trance. She hesitated by the telephone several times during the morning, wondering whether to ring Jeremy or wait to hear from

him. The phone remained silent. The day turned into early evening. Sofia prepared the evening meal expecting her husband to arrive home at the usual time.

When he didnt show, Sofia then started to get really worried. She rang his office, but there was no answer. She rang the police, but until someone had been missing for longer than what Jeremy had, they couldnt do anything.

Sofia sat and listened to the wind, which had begun earlier in the evening to howl around the house. It sounded like someone who had gone mad. She finally fell asleep on the sofa. There came a loud crash, Sofia sat upright, staring around madly. Her eyes came to rest on a dark patch on the carpet just in front of her. Her hand groped for the light switch and in a flood of light the realisation that this was blood made her hand go to her mouth to hold back the scream which was waiting to come out.

She went running from room to room calling out for Jeremy. Her echoes were the only thing that came back.

Suddenly a deep chill filled her heart. The memory of the story, which Theodora had told to them, came to her. She was suddenly very afraid that ghosts could come back. Who could she turn to? The police would very likely think that she had gone mad. She had no living relatives, she solely depended upon Jeremy as her friend, as well as being her husband. She went outside, the wind had calmed and the moon was full and bright in the sky, lighting up the whole area she was able to search around the gardens. It was then that she

noticed that there was a light flickering out in the summerhouse. Who could be there at this time of the night? Venturing forwards, using the grass to cover any noise she may have made. She turned the handle slowly, although this was not used the door made little noise as it inched its way open. There lying in a chair in the far corner, she could make out a shape. Slowly and on tiptoe Sofia made her way to it.

Throwing back the cover she found Jeremy. His eyes shot wide open and upon seeing Sofia he reached out and held her tightly. His own eyes were ringed red by the tears he had shed. Once they had pulled themselves apart, he said that he had stayed in the summerhouse all day. Taking glances at the house and seeing the shadow of Sofia as she moved about. He was so ashamed of what he had done and not knowing if Sofia would be able to forgive him, he had remained there all day.

Now tired, cold and very hungry and still clinging to Sofia, they made their way back to the house. Sofia told him about the blood stain, which she had seen on the living room carpet, and on checking this they could find no trace of it. She also confided that she had thought about the story, which had been told to them by Theodora. After realising what the stain could have been, the reflection of the moonlight striking through the vase of flowers, they laughed.

The only thing the dead could do to them was to give them strange thoughts.

So now with the memory of Theodoras story receding to the back of their minds, they climbed the stairs to their bedroom together and to share their love with the rising of the

sun.

The End

Kitty's Life

By

Greta Ann Hughes

Kittys Life

Kitty wanted for nothing. She was well cared for and loved by all the family. It was a large family. There was mamma and papa, with their three sons and two daughters. Jeremy the eldest son had been married for the past four years and had a two year old daughter of his own, Philippa. Marcia the second eldest daughter was also married and had recently had a baby , her name was Jessica. The other three children, two boys and girl were still at home. The youngest of the family, Katrina, had met with a fatal accident just six months earlier. She had been on a skiing holiday with some friends, when the cable car she was travelling in, had broken free from its cable and plummeted to the ground. Her closest friend Sabrina had survived the accident. Katrina was sadly missed by everyone. Each weekend the family got together and it was as if they had all been apart for months, instead of just for a few days. The house was always alive with laughter, even now after the tragic accident.

The house was a huge Victorian building, set in its own grounds. Within the grounds there was a small but wonderful woodland. Planted under the canopy of trees were delicate plants, flowering in an abundance of colour that caught the suns rays coming through the leafy boughs. All the children had played here from an early age, with little chance of coming to any harm. Within the woodland there were hundreds of butterflies, fluttering by and adding their own colours. The sound of bird song filled the air and you could also hear the scampering of tiny feet of the squirrels who were in search of food.

It was on one of these Sunday gatherings that late in the afternoon, all of the youngest

children set off to go and play hide and seek in the woods. Kitty followed at a distance, as she hadnt been asked along. Valerie, who was the shy one, was chosen to be the one to come and find them. As she began to count to one hundred, she thought she caught a glimpse of someone very familiar to her. She shook her head, it must surely be a trick of the light. Reaching the count of one hundred and calling out coming, ready or not, Valerie turned around quickly, hoping to catch any one of them who may have been standing behind her. But no one was there.

As Valerie skipped along, peeping under the thick shrubs and behind the hedges, she still had the feeling that someone watching her. It wasnt like when she had played hide and seek before, when she knew that it was her own brothers, peeping out to see if they were to be caught in the game. As she neared the next hiding place, a small makeshift hut, that they themselves had made years ago, she heard quiet giggling coming from inside.

Quickly jumping in, Valerie joyfully shouted, caught you. Indeed she had, because for more times than they could count on, they always ended up in the hut. She sat down and with a slight shiver she started to tell them all about the feeling of being watched. Each one of them said that they had felt something too. But not one of them could pinpoint from where they thought they were being observed.

They sat and chatted and told each other stories, but it was only when the dark shadows started to show, that they realised that the hour must be late and they must set off back to the house in case they were missed.

Hand in hand they sang their way along the carpet of green grass, but as they neared to where they came back into the garden, they suddenly stopped. A high piercing scream broke the otherwise stillness of the quiet late afternoon. The sound came from within the wood. From the nearby garden table where he elders sat, they too were stunned into their own silence by this shriek. They quickly dashed forwards to the opening of the woodland.

What on earth could have made that noise, papa said to no one in particular. They all stood and listened, their eyes roaming over the now darkened area. Once more the scream pierced the now deadly silence and a movement was seen just a little further in. With startled looks at each other, they stepped forwards. It was mamma who with a shaky hand to her throat uttered, Its Kitty, she is caught in something.

Quickly they ran over to try and help poor Kitty, who by now was visibly shaking. As papa bent down he felt a small hand on his shoulder. Valerie looked at him and said, Please papa, let me, for now I know who has been following me all through these woods.

Valerie knelt down besides Kitty and gently taking the awful old trap that she was caught in from around her hind leg, she gently cradled her on her lap. Looking up towards all their gazing faces, Kittys eyes suddenly changed and with a last gasp of breath, she slowly closed them.

For a long time no one spoke a word. Then slowly standing up, with her arms holding

the now still form of Kitty, Valerie broke the silence and said. I am sure that you all must have seen the change in Kitty. I for one am sure that the eyes, which have just gazed at all of us, were the eyes of our dear sister Katrina. For hadnt we all, at sometime or other commented about these eyes. The loving looks which sometimes caught you unawares. Then there is also the name that we always called Katrina, hadnt she been our little pussy cat?

As they all made their way back to the house, all had their own thoughts on this. But for now they must make a grave for their recent lost one, little Kitty.

Tears glistened from all of their eyes. And in silent agreement they carried onwards.

The End

Saving Lucy

By

Greta Ann Hughes

Saving Lucy

Lucy loved to play. At the young age of 6 she tried to cram into her day everything and anything which she thought she might miss out on another day. Today was a grey day, with little sunshine to be seen. Her mother Becky had called to her to tell her to stay within the garden and not to venture out on to the pavement.

As she was busy chasing around the garden with her kite in full flight, it bobbed about way up in the air, the colours catching in the brief sunlight, and the blue ribbon snaking and whipping about. All of a sudden a gust of wind caught the string and tugged it out of her hand. She gave a little gasp of astonishment that this could have happened. Peeping over her shoulder, she saw that her mother had moved away from the window. She knew that she would get a telling off and that it was very naughty, but she wanted to try and get her kite back. Daddy had bought it for her from the church autumn fayre and she didnt want to loose it.

Carefully she opened the garden gate and as it closed behind her she once again glanced back towards the window. Her mother was not to be seen. I will only be a minute, she said to herself. She skipped along the pavement trying to keep her kite in sight. Not looking about she jumped over a small hole in the pavement. I could go faster like the cars if I used the road. Her mother had told her never to step off the pavement before taking great care of what traffic was coming. They could whip you off your feet before you could say Jumping Jack Flash. This was her mothers favourite saying.

Taking one more careful look over her shoulder, Lucy stepped off the pavement. Staying as close to the parked car, she adventured further out. Seeing that there were no other cars about, she skipped further out into the road. Happily keeping her eyes on the string of her kite, she didn't hear the sound of the car horn, but as the car neared and she heard it's tyres screech. She became scared and she froze on the spot. Nothing else was to be heard.

Lucy, Lucy, where are you? her mother shouted from the garden gate. Looking towards the left she saw the car, parked askew in the road and the driver frantically rubbing his hands through his hair. No, oh no, her mother ran towards the man.

Her hand came up towards her mouth to stifle the scream which wanted to escape from between her tightened jaws. Her mother collapsed on to her knees, and leaning forwards she lifted Lucy's head. Her golden curls falling about her angelic face, her mother cried softly. Why had I not been more alert? Damn the stupid washing machine for breaking down again. I had only wanted to get rid of all of the holiday build up of washing. It was just the sort of day to get such a job done.

In the distance the siren of the ambulance could be heard. Becky finally looked about her. The pale face of the young driver was looking at her.

I am so sorry. I, I didn't see her. She seemed to jump out at me and all I could do was blast away on the car horn. He kept on rubbing his hair. Becky remembered seeing him do this as she approached the car.

I turned the car as far away from her as possible, but the front bumper still caught her. Becky put her hand up to him.

Please, I can see that you truly tried to stop, please just let us hope that the ambulance arrives quickly and they can save her. I can feel her breathing, but ever so slowly.

No sooner had Becky had said this that the ambulance arrived. The paramedics took over. Gently lifting Lucy up onto the stretcher they put her into the ambulance.

Such a long time seemed to pass by. Andrew had been called away from the office and was now sitting by the bedside with Becky.

Just how much longer do the doctors think that Lucy will be like this? Andrew was staring straight at Lucy.

He had never liked hospitals, but right now he was more than eager to get away. Not from Lucy but from where he was. Couldn't he take her away from here. She would get well back home. Surely they could tell that she would be well looked after.

Time ticked slowly by. It was now almost six o'clock in the evening. The doctor was doing his last round for the night. As he approached the bed he saw the anxious looks on the parents faces.

There is nothing else you can do tonight. I would advise you to go home and come back

in the morning. Lucy is in good hands here and if there are any changes we will telephone you straight away. The doctor almost lifted Andrew from his seat.

Slowly Becky and Andrew made their way to the exit and in the next moment they were back at their own home. How soon they had got there they had no recollection.

Day after day Becky and Andrew returned to the hospital. There was never any change in Lucy's condition. The doctors seemed baffled as to what was keeping Lucy from awakening. All her vital statistics showed that she was fine. Her reflexes responded well, but she seemed to be in a deep deep sleep, just like one of her favourite stories, Sleeping Beauty.

Maybe it was going to take a prince charming to make her wake up.

Life as it was carried on back at home, but it was putting a strain on Becky and Andrew. Becky took care of the house, but it was awfully quiet without Lucy running around, chasing after the pet cat Sasha. Lucy had chosen this name after having been told a story at the nursery she went to.

Even there the other children missed her, she was one of those children who was loved by everyone. Her bright eager eyes and happy laughter made even the most grumpiest of people smile.

The man who had run into Lucy as she chased her kite had telephoned several times to

see if there were any changes. One day he rang he asked if he could perhaps visit the hospital to see Lucy.

Obviously I will understand if you say no. Because if it hadn't been for me your child would be home with you. I feel absolutely dreadful. My night's are taken up by sleeplessness and I try to put the accident away during the day, but without any success. My boss has noticed that my work is suffering and asked whether I should perhaps consider taking some time off in which to get myself back to normal. Peter's voice by now was quieter and quieter.

I know I shouldn't say this, but you must try to put this to one side. From all the accounts you were not to blame. If there is anyone to blame then it is me. Becky stifled a sob which was bubbling up. I had told Lucy not to go out of the gate. Andrew and I had been talking about getting a newer much stronger latch that she wouldn't be able to open. But like most things, you put it to one side until it is too late. Becky was now looking through the window and looking at the gate as if it was the first time that she had seen it.

I'm sorry Peter, these days I tend to stray away from what is going on at the present moment. By all means you can go and see Lucy. I only wish that she will be able to tell if you or anyone is there at all.

Peter thanked her and as he put the telephone down on her, he again wished that he could go back to that day and undo the accident.

It was late on in the following afternoon that Peter managed to leave his office early and make his way over to the children's ward at the hospital. After checking which direction the ward was, he hurried along.

Feeling very strange, he made his way to Lucy's bedside. He popped himself down on the stool next to the bed and looked at the pretty little face laying upon the puffed up pillow. Such a tiny little child. He spoke softly, not knowing if he was being heard. Oh how so very sorry I am. He lowered his head and felt the tears spring to his eyes just like they had been doing over the last few weeks.

Not wanting to overstay his time by the bedside, he leaned over Lucy and said, little girl, I don't know if you can hear me or not, but I hope you wake up soon as your parents are longing to have their little girl back with them. I am going to leave now, but tied to the end of your bed, just right where you will look when you awake, there will be a balloon painted with the picture of your favourite kite. Goodbye little one.

Peter tied the balloon to the bed and left without looking back. He couldn't bear to see the shape of the small outline seen through the hospital sheets.

Some weeks later as Peter was working alone late one evening at the office, the telephone rang. Is that Peter Hastings? a male voice said.

Yes, how can I help you? Peter thought that this could be a customer ringing in the hopes that someone was still working at the insurance office.

This is Andrew Smallwood, Lucy's father. I hope that I am not disturbing you. My wife and I have just returned home from the hospital and wanted to let you know straight away that Lucy has woken up. Her first words were, where is my kite, I think I have lost it. You should have seen her face when she saw the balloon which you had so caringly left for her.

Peter seemed to shrink into his chair. The feeling of a great weight being lifted from him was only overtaken by the feeling of great happiness for Andrew and Becky. What they must have gone through for the last couple of months, he could not imagine.

I am so happy for you both. You can now hopefully put this to the back of your minds and in time perhaps to forget this bad period of your lives. Thank you for letting me know, and also for being so kind to me, the one who has caused you this grief.

Perhaps, when we have Lucy back home, you would like to come and see what she is really like. I am sure that this would be good for all of us. Maybe we could show others that not all accidents can turn into tragedies. Andrew offered this with a gratitude that could only be seen by his wife, Becky, who was looking at him at the time. The picture on Andrew's face told of the joy of having his little girl back with him.

Journeying forwards in time the pain which had showed on the three elders faces, as each of them thought of the small child lying there in the hospital, with the sheer whiteness of the sheets against the paleness of her face. Their each individual happiness took on a new role. The one that didn't just take each day for granted, but to seize every moment in

full and take pleasure from it from start to finish. Anyone who feels low, take notice, live now and never mind the tomorrow's.

The End

When Darkness Falls

By

Greta Ann Hughes

When Darkness Falls

Angelina had always been afraid of the night. As soon as she turned out her night light, closing her eyes, she became aware of things moving around in the darkness of her room. For as long as she could remember she had had scary nightmares, where strange happenings and strange people visited her. Her parents had thought that she was making these things up, always trying ways to stay away from going to school. They took her to see numerous doctors, and had tried all sorts of diets for her, thinking that these symptoms were all in her mind.

When Angelina was 14 years old, she awoke one morning after having had a really bad dream, her mother then decided that she would have one last go and called in a psychic. After doing some research in trying to find someone who knew the field of psychic phenomenon, she found one who seemed to fit what Angelina needed. Eva Gilbear came well recommended, also she had recently had a book published on how to detect some of the early signs in someone possessing the ability of psychic phenomenon. Eva wanted very few details about Angelina, preferring to find out first hand from the person concerned. She set about and questioned Angelina in depth and for quite a length of time. Once she had finished with her questions, she then asked the parents to come in.

After speaking to Angelina and finding out all that I can here, I would now like to book a date and time for me to come to your home. I always find that when a person is in their own environment, then things will come out, which never would in a clinical atmosphere.

I would also like to spend the night there as well, because obviously that is when these happenings occur. The doctor smiled pleasantly, she gave nothing away, but sat there patiently waiting for their response.

Well as far as I am concerned any time would not be a bother to us. We would like to get this cleared up and hopefully Angelina can start to live a normal life, said Madeleine her mother.

Right then let me check my diary. How about this Friday, say about 5.30 in the afternoon and then I can set everything up for the night. With this settled they said their good-byes until they were to meet again.

After they had reached home, Madeleine said, you seem very quiet Angelina. Does this visit worry you badly.

No mother, it doesnt. Its just that I seem to get the oddest feelings when I have to talk about these visitations to strangers. It is as though there is a barrier going down, trying to shut out memories or images. Perhaps it is my imagination, like everyone thinks. I am probably the oddball, the black sheep of the family that no one likes to talk about. Someone who should be kept locked up in the attic. Angelina seemed to be really down at heart. This was the first time that she had expressed her views about the people who she had seen over the years, the doctors and specialists.

Do you still want to go ahead with the appointment for Friday. Its still not too late to

back out. You know that both your father and I will always be at your side and any decisions you make, will be OK with us.

Her mother was starting to look quite worried. It was the first time that Angelina had been affected this way. No mother, Ill see what this one can do. It cant be any worse that what I have experienced so far.

So Friday night came round and punctually at 5.30 Eva Gilbear arrived. She unloaded all her cameras and ultra sound equipment. After setting this up she said, please carry on as though all this wasnt here. Although you will pass in front of the cameras, this will only be set off by any entity that is not solid or warm. It acts the opposite to an infrared on an alarm system.

Angelina got ready for bed. Following her movements was Eva, she had placed a couple of lights in the bedroom. So after Angelina had settled into bed, Eva asked, how are you feeling. Are your thoughts mainly on what may happen tonight? Do you think that any of this will affect how you sleep tonight?

Angelina propped herself up on her pillows and said, do you ever track anything down, you know, find something that is there, that no one else can see or feel. The way things are at the moment, only I know that something is there. I can see, hear and feel them. It is as though I am being invaded in my mind, battering at me. When I wake I feel as though I have been running for miles, without having got anywhere. Does any of this

make sense to you?

Some of what you are saying I have heard before from others that I have met. The camera does pick up signs sometimes, things that look like fog swirling around. This is then sent off for further investigation. Most times it is nothing, but there are times when we do find a spectre. This then causes great excitement for us. I remember once that we found a young girl, like you, who had been named after her great great great grandmother. It was she who was visiting and giving nightmares to this youngster. After some time we found out why. The spelling of the name was wrong and being of an old established family, spanning several generations, she wasnt going to stay quiet and let this go unnoticed. The family changed the name and had it registered and as soon as this was done, everything went back to normal. No one has heard anything or seen anything from that day. I hope that what I have just told, you will bear in mind. Something like this can be sorted out eventually. Now try to sleep. I am used to sitting very still, so you shouldnt be disturbed by me.

Angelina laid her head down. Soon after she was fast asleep. Eva kept watched, she made many notes on her pad. At a little after 11.30pm she heard the parents making their way to bed. Madeleine popped her head around the doorway and whispered, is everything OK. Do you need anything?

Eva shook her head, smiled and waved them goodnight. She didnt want Angelina to be disturbed. Sometimes the parents could be the trouble when trying to investigate. Lots of patience was needed for this kind of job and dedication. She had plenty of both. At

the age of 40 she felt that her days of hitting the night-clubs was way behind her. The thought of a singles bar gave her the creeps. Surely some of those who visited such a place had to be complete nerds. No, for her relaxation she enjoyed to snuggle down with a good book. One of her favourite authors was Stephen King, a nice horror story. As she thought of him, her mind focused on the film of The Shining, she smiled, some might think that she could be the nerd.

As the hours ticked by, she was almost coming to the conclusion that if anything happened at all tonight, it would be a fluke. One of her thoughts was that it could be more of the imagination of the parents, as opposed to it being Angelinas. Just as she was going to slip out and use the bathroom, Angelina suddenly sat bolt right up in her bed. Her eyes stared straight ahead and the rooms temperature dropped drastically. The hair on the back of Evas neck seemed to stand on end and a shiver ran through her. The cameras and recording equipment tripped into action. With only the moonlight shining through the closed curtains, Eva could make out wisps of something which looked like mist, rising up just behind Angelinas head. She crept forwards to the side of the bed and ran her hand down to where the pillows lay. It was like a block of ice. She then touched Angelinas forehead, it was red hot, she must be running a temperature, Eva thought as she took her hand away.

It was as she was making her way back to the chair that she turned and looked at Angelina. Her lips were moving rapidly. No sound seemed to be coming from her, but there was a noise coming from the doorway. As she glanced over that way, there was a bright flash and she had to close her eyes against it. When she opened them again, all

was back to normal. The bedrooms temperature was just right, Angelina was once again lying down and sleeping peacefully and a quiet was felt in the room again. Did she just dream the last few moments or had it really happened. She felt quite excited. Hurry up morning was what she thought. She wrote everything down which had happened over the last few moments into her notebook.

She must have dozed, because the next moment she heard the faint sound of an alarm clock going off in the next bedroom. She stretched and then let herself out of the bedroom quietly and went to the bathroom. After washing and changing into fresh cloths, Eva was then ready to pack everything up and get back to the office, where should could start to have the film and recordings analysed.

Over breakfast with the family, she told them of the activities that had taken place during the night. Angelina looked relieved that something had happened. Where as her parents had shocked expressions on their faces. Do you mean that there is a ghost or some sort of possession taking place? asked Madeleine. The father Gareth, seemed to be taking this the worse, he sat twitching and picking at his finger nails.

I doubt that it is a possession. It could be the passing of someone, their spirit form, which Angelina must have some sort of link with. I should be able to tell you more, once I have got all this back to the office and get it linked up to the computer, it should take no time at all. As soon as I have some thing to tell you, I will phone you. Looking at Angelina she said, are you OK, is there anything you want to ask me before I go?

Angelina looked better than of late and answered, Im alright. I am just glad that you have found something which you can try to identify. Just ring as soon as you can please.

Eva rang ahead to the office and told them to get everything set up, I hopefully have sounds and pictures, which should keep us busy for several hours.

Back in the office, Eva ploughed through the photographs which she had taken, there were dozens of them. Scanning and re scanning them, they finally brought into focus a faint outline of a person. It would take several more hours and more takes of the photo, to really enhance this to get a definite picture.

Wow, I have never had anything like this before, especially after only one night of surveillance. It seems remarkable. Evas face was lit up in amazement at her good fortune in getting this case. Right then, lets now make a start on the recordings, see what that can tell us.

They all worked until early evening. They had sent out earlier for sandwiches and drinks and the empty packages lay about in heaps, like small garbage dumping grounds. It was as she looked around at the tired faces she said, lets call it a draw for tonight. I think we could all do with some air and to have some shut eye. See you all in the morning.

Back at Angelinas house, her parents were just getting ready to go out for a meal. Angelina had been ready for ages, she could never understand why it always took her

mother so long to get dressed. Several dresses had already been discarded from the wardrobe, with her saying, too old, too short, not the right colour. She could never be satisfied. The wardrobe fitted right across one wall of the bedroom and consisted of three full sized robes and one with several drawers for all her lingerie. She also had a walk in cupboard which had all her shoes lining the walls, set out in the various colours.

As for her father, his only wardrobe was a small space in the box room, which he had made into a dressing room and small study for himself. He also had been ready for some time. Since Eva had left that morning, he had seemed very quiet and whenever Angelina had spoken to him, he seemed to shrink and mutter any responses to her. Strange she thought, but there again nothing so far in her life had been very ordinary. Finally her mother arrived downstairs and after collecting their coats they set off in her father's car. Why they couldnt have had a meal at home and watched some TV, which they did on most Saturdays, was beyond Angelinas thinking. Never mind, if it made her mother happy, then enough was said.

Why dont you try the house speciality tonight? said her mother. They had eaten at this restaurant before and the food was always very good.

Actually mother, I dont feel that hungry. Perhaps I will have the soup and a salad. If I do find that I could eat something else, then I can always gorge myself on the chocolate cake with fresh cream.

After her father had placed the orders, the waiter arrived with their drinks. It being a

weekend, Angelina was allowed to have a small glass of wine, after these had been set out her father spoke for the first time. The last twenty four hours have been quite upsetting for me. You know that I am not normally affected by anything, but this has been so strange and it isnt over yet. Patting Angelinas hand he continued, I know this has been happening to you and you should be the one who is acting like a quivering heap of jelly, but my mind just wants to block this out. It says, you are not part of this and if you look the other way, it will all disappear. But it wont, will it? So for your sake I have to wait, like you, for the results and for whatever will happen next.

Daddy, its OK, I do understand. I am sorry that you have both had to go through with this. But I am glad that now that there is some evidence, that I havent been hallucinating all this time and that someone is now going to try and sort this out. She kissed her fathers cheek and gave her mothers hand a gently squeeze. She knew that they both loved her and that they would always protect her.

The evening passed quickly and soon it was time to return home. As soon as they got home Angelina said I am going straight up to bed. It has been quite a day one way or another and no doubt the next few days will be full of surprises. Goodnight mum, goodnight dad. Thank you both for being here for me. She kissed them both and went upstairs, but her tread on the stairs seemed very weary. There was a look behind her eyes which seemed full of gloom as well.

Angelina had been right, the next few days brought many calls from Eva and her team of experts. They made an appointment to come round on the following evening, they said

that they had photos and had made a clear tape of coherent words. They would then want to know if any of the material that they had compiled made any sense to Angelina.

Eva arrived promptly, like she always did for appointments. After the customary cups of tea had been handed round, she opened up her briefcase and passed around the photographs which they had been able to enhance to a clear picture. She then turned the tape recorder on and played the tape to them. As they were all looking at the photos, Eva kept a close eye on the faces and expressions which were slowly taking form on Angelina and her mothers faces. Surprise and shock was written across their faces and could be seen quite clearly.

Eva asked in a quiet tone, do you know this person?

It was Madeleine who spoke, Why yes. This is my Aunt Agatha. But how on earth could you have taken her photograph. She lives down at Great Yarmouth and we rarely see her. She became quite eccentric when she reached seventy, nearly two years ago, so she wont have any visitors near her. Her main contact is the couple who have the local shop cum post office.

Eva then asked, is this the voice of your aunts?

Madeleine listened carefully and said, I think it is, but you must realise that I havent spoken to her for a long time. The voice seems strange though, as though it is in the air, like the noise of wind whistling through the trees. It doesnt seem as though it is being

spoken, but mimed. Does that make any sense to you?

Angelina responded quickly to what her mother has just said. I know what you mean mum. It was like the play we did at school, the voice was taped and then the person acting the part mimed and the voice came from behind the stage. We did this when the part that was being played was for a person who had just died. The teachers said that they had read this in a report and that this was what it would have sounded like. You dont think that this is some kind of visitation that I keep getting do you?

Well that does seem to be top of the list. Now you could be a link between here, the living and the next stage that a person who is dying or just died, goes onto. Like the astral planes that you may have heard about. Turning to Madeleine she asked, Could you telephone someone about your aunt, to make sure that everything is OK. Because this could then clear up some of the thoughts, which must be being thought of by all of us present.

Madeleine went straight to the telephone and dialled her aunts house. After numerous rings, she hung up and checked her directory. She then tried her aunts local shop, it was answered promptly and after the initial how are you, she asked about her aunt Agatha. I know that this may sound odd but do you know if my aunt is OK or not. I have tried her house but there is no reply.

The shopkeeper said, I am sorry to have to tell you this, but your aunt passed away early hours of Saturday morning. The police here should have been in touch with you by now.

We heard the ambulance sirens on Friday night and went over to see what was happening. My wife, Freda, decided to go to the hospital with her. She had had a serious heart attack, how she had managed to ring for the ambulance remains a mystery, as she was found unconscious in the hallway near to the front door which was open. I will give you the local police stations telephone number and someone there should be able to give you more information. Once again please accept our sincere condolences.

Madeleine thanked him and said that she would be in touch with the funeral arrangements, once everything was sorted out. She told this to her family and all were stunned with the revelations. Eva asked if any of them could remember if the occurrence of the dreams tied up with any deaths that they knew of. All shook their heads, but remained quiet with pensive looks on their faces. Obviously they all trying to tie up any dates. Eva said that she would leave them alone for the time being.

It was Angelina who first said that when grandma had died, wasnt that one of the nights that she had had her dream. I dont think I like the thought of this. When someone dies am I always going to have to go through this horrible spectacle of ghostly shapes and voices. I will definitely get myself a name, some already call me creepy Lina.

Oh Angelina dont say such things. They might be able to stop you have these sightings or whatever they want to call it. It may be just a phase and will stop when you reach a certain age. Her mother wept.

Mother I am 14 years old. How much longer do you think that I can take having these

dreams. Sometimes neither you or dad know that I have had this experience. I can tell you now that I dont always have to be asleep. I have seen spectres during my studies at school. When this happens I just freeze. Most times I get away with it, but some other times, the teachers have seen me gazing into space and once I finally come round I have to suffer whatever punishment that they think fit, mostly detention. But it is the embarrassment of having been caught that hurts the most, as well as the taunting that follows.

With these new revelations there was a silence which followed. They then thought that it might be a good idea it they were to turn in for the night. They had all gone through a lot in the last few hours.

Over the next couple of weeks there was so much to be sorted out, that there was little time to think of Angelina's situation. But once that they were all settled back into their usual routines, it was at Angelina's request that Eva was to be contacted again, then they could see what could be done.

Eva arrived at the house that evening and was shocked by the way Angelina looked. She seemed to have aged over the last couple of weeks. Her eyes had dark shadows underneath and her skin looked mottled like that of an old person. What on earth has been going on here. Have things taken a turn for the worse and if so please tell me the whole truth.

It was Angelina who answered. In a weary tone she started to tell about the latest

occurrences. Last week was the latest and the most astonishing, as well as being the scariest of all the visitations that I have had. I was just taking a bath before getting ready to go to bed. I was leaning back relaxing in the hot scented water, when I first felt a chill on the top of my head. I opened my eyes to see a cloud like formation, coming down on me from the ceiling. It looked like the reverse of a cyclone. The tip of it hit the water and suddenly I was entombed in a block of ice. The only thing that I could move was my eyes and lips. I cried out for help and when my parents finally broke down the bathroom door, all they could see in front of them was a freezing wall of mist. They managed to walk through this to reach me in the bath tub. I was by this time barely conscious, but whispered to them that I had seen my own death as the water turned to ice. Then I passed out. They called the emergency services and when they arrived all that remained of the block of ice was small cubes, like you have served in your drinks. Funny that, I have never really liked ice in my drinks. They bundled me into a thermal blanket and rushed me to the emergency room at the hospital. After all the various tests carried out, they were none the wiser as to why something like this could have happened. They did find out though that I had suffered a massive heart attack, along with severe frost bite with being in the water. Lying in the hospital bed I had plenty of time to think and to do some reading. I read with great interest in a magazine, on trials in America of electric probes being attached to parts of the brain. This stimulus blocks off some of your memory, letting the patient carry on with day to day running of his or her life. There can sometimes be setbacks with this though. The patient could be left with very little memory and has to learn everything again. Others could be left brain damaged. I would be willing to go through this to stop these happenings. Would you be able to arrange this?

Eva had remained silent through all this and was amazed at the way Angelina was handling the situation. Surely for any other young girl of her age, this ordeal would be too much. But she was taking this very calmly, too calmly in fact. I would have to make a few phone calls to find out about this. Obviously this is something that needs to be thought about fully, before any undertakings are taken.

I dont care anymore. All I want is a normal life. So far all I can remember is nightmares, ghouls, ghosts, spooks or whatever you want to call them. I want it to stop.

Eva said that she would do her best and said good-bye for the time being.

No one spoke for the rest of the evening. The day to day running of their individual lives carried on as usual over the next week. Eventually the phone rang and it was Eva, she had managed to track down the doctor who was carrying out these tests. She had put Angelina's case to him and he was willing to travel down to see them. Eva had made arrangements for rooms to be prepared at the Harrington Clinic. Angelina was to be there in two days time and after preliminary tests to check to see if she would be able to stand the procedure, the operation would be carried out. Her parents had given their permission, even though it was under pressure from Angelina. She had said that it was either the operation or she would take her own life. If there was the remotest chance of being successful, then she was willing to take it.

Although Angelina was very scared about what she was about to go through, she put on a

brave face. All the tests were carried out without any signs of complications. The doctor then said that he was ready for the final commitment, that was if she was still ready to carry on. She nodded slowly and managed a weak smile.

During the final procedure she would remain conscious. Part of her head had already been shaved. Her head was then held still in a vice like looking piece of equipment. A cool gel was applied to the shaven area and with steady hand the doctor place the drill against her skull. Once the hole had been bored, a minute optic thread was passed down the tube and placed against the nerve in the brain. Just as this touched, a flash of bright blue light appeared at the side of Angelina. The temperature in the theatre dropped to freezing. Slowly the bright blue light started to take form. The image that appeared amazed them all. It was like looking at a mirror image of Angelina. A voice spoke, but it seemed to come from all around the room, not just in one place. I have tried for so very long to come and see you all. Hello mum, hello dad, but most of all, hello my big twin sister. I have grown up knowing all of you, without any of you knowing that I existed at all. For as far as you were concerned, I had died at birth. Although you grieved for me, you put all your extra love Angelina's way. Now that she trying to get rid of the suffering which she has gone through during her life, she is also going to do away with herself. You must stop this now before it is too late. In time she will be able to forgive you. I have also had the chance to see you and now I will be able to rest and to carry on my way to the far off world where I should have been since my death.

Angelinas image wavered before disappearing in a whoosh through the ceiling. The temperature in the room went back to normal immediately. The doctor quickly took out

the probe at the parents request and soon Angelina was in a bed in the recovery room.

This was something that no one had experienced before. No one even knew what to say. All that remained was for Angelina to come round, as she has fainted as the apparition had disappeared.

Once back at her own house Angelina refused to talk about what had happened. Life started to get back to normal. As normal as could be expected anyway. It was just before her fifteenth birthday that she asked her parents, why did you never tell me that I had had a twin sister. That knowledge may have been of use to me, with all the suffering that I have been through. Perhaps if I had known, then she may have spoken to me. I dont think that I will ever forget this, or either of you for keeping this back from me.

From time to time Angelina was visited by her sister, but now that she knew what it was, she was able to deal with the situation. She never told anyone about these visits. As the years went by, she took up a post in a private psychology clinic. There she felt comfortable with the patients, as many of them were going through similar situations like she had experienced. With her first hand knowledge of how they were feeling, she was able to help them along their way and to show them that all could end well.

Angelina's other main contact was Eva. Eva would visit her at her small flat and would set up her recording equipment. On many occasions there would be something recorded and back to the lab the tests would go. Since the first time that I met you, I knew that you were special. Although you may not think that way. And now that you are in a

similar field as mine, these recordings are a great help to us all. There is a seminar coming up at a hotel, locally, and I was wondering if you would be willing to help me out. Eva enquired with a raised eyebrow.

How on earth will I be able to help you. Dont look at me that way Eva. I can now see what sort of help you want. Sending me into a trance again, is that it: Angelina replied.

It is all in the aid of research you know. And to help your fellow man. Eva could talk her way round anything.

Well OK then. But you must promise me that you will not tell my parents. They don't agree with me and they think it is a waste of time. On the assurance of Eva, Angelina agreed.

On the night of the seminar, Angelina was as usual very quiet, like she always was when she was about to be discussed and as she termed it, used as a guinea pig. Eva introduced her as a friend, not giving out her real name. After settling Angelina down, she put her into a deep sleep. As in the past, she was soon under and Eva started with her questions. Soon the area about them started to go very cold, this was all being monitored and the audience could see on the screens in front of them the changes which were taking place. There were gasps of amazement which went around the room. Eva spoke quietly and put her questions over very carefully and slowly. The spectre which could now be clearly seen, was of an elderly lady, but the replies which she got back, came over in a strong tone, with no evidence of uncertainty. The spectre said that all around her were people

who were in terrible pain, their screams were echoing up and down the road. Also that there was an intense heat rising from the fire, which was creeping steadily across their path.

All of a sudden the doors to the meeting hall were flung open. They were all told that the hotel was being evacuated due to a serious accident, just out on the main road. Eva switched all her equipment off and slowly brought Angelina back. After making sure that she was alright, they followed the staff members out through the emergency exit. Once outside they could see that there were many people dashing one way or another. Pandemonium was rife, as opposite the hotel was a primary school. The children had been in the playground just as the crash happened. Parts of two of the vehicles involved had been catapulted into the playground and a couple of the children had also been injured. Angelina staggered backwards and was caught by one of the staff.

Im OK, really. I just overbalanced and with just coming out of the trance, well the sight of what is out here, it just hit me. Angelina smiled weakly at the concerned faces looking at her.

Once Angelina and Eva managed to get away from the scene and back to the safety of the office, Angelina could then let herself really go. Tears streamed down her cheeks and her sobs racked her whole body. I do not ever want this sort of thing to happen to me again. I can still feel the pain and the fear which was running riot out there. My skin feels as though it has been burnt off. The agony of those poor people. With saying this a fresh wave of tears took her over again.

Angelina dozed for a short while, then waking and feeling slightly better she said goodnight to everyone and made her way home. The early evening was quite warm and she decided that she would walk the short way to her flat. This gave her some time in which to try and clear all the thoughts which were running havoc through her mind. She let herself in and after popping a meal into the microwave and making herself a cup of tea, she sat in the kitchen looking out of her window. Concentrating she called upon her dead twin sister. It was unusual that she couldnt make contact and with the feeling of being left completely on her own, she decided to go to bed straight after eating her meal.

Angelina slowly undressed and after using the bathroom, she sat at her dressing table and applied her night face cream. It was as she was putting the bottle down that her eyes were drawn to the sleeping tablets that her doctor had prescribed for her many months ago. Dont be so stupid, an inner voice was telling her, as her hand reached out to the bottle. Her fingers tightened around the bottle and she took this across to her bed. Settling against her pillows and still holding on to the bottle of tablets, her mind went over the days happenings. Slowly she unscrewed the bottle top. Next she leaned over and took out the writing pad which she always kept at the side of her bed. She wrote a short note to her parents, saying that she had forgiven them for keeping her in the dark about her twin sister, but that they had always been close to her heart, even though she hadnt been able to tell them this to their faces. She would always love them and would keep a close eye on them, from wherever her next journey onwards led her. She was also sorry for what she was now going to do, it was something she had wanted to do for a long long time. She sealed this note in an envelope and placed it on the bedside table.

Next she wrote to Eva. In this she put that she was glad that she had been able to give Eva and her colleagues many opportunities to delve into the physic fields. Their findings had been able to offer help to many people, who without their knowledge may have been given psychiatric treatment. She wrote that her own state of mind was starting to crumble, the many torments that she had felt over the years, were now getting too tough to handle. She said that she knew that this was the easy way out, but as there was no other avenue of help open to her, then she had to end it herself.

She placed this letter next to the one to her parents and then one by one she took all of the sleeping pills. Angelina lay herself down and slowly closed her eyes. The last thing that she looked at was the wind chime. She had put this up as soon as she moved into the flat, sometimes this tinkled just before she had one of her experiences. As the tablets took effect, she just made out a very faint tinkle and she felt herself smile a little, as she wondered whether this could be her own passing.

After a couple of days of no response from Angelinas flat, Eva decided to call round to see if she was OK. Knocking on the door several times and calling out her name, a neighbours door opened. The gentleman standing there said, I havent seen or heard her for a day or so. Normally she is singing to the radio or is in and out of the place all day.

Eva thanked the gentleman and decided that she would use the key that Angelina had given to her a long time ago. Opening the door she called out and after receiving no reply she turned round to ask the neighbour whether he would accompany her inside.

They went into each room together and on reaching the last room, the bedroom, Evas hand went up to her throat, which had closed up on seeing Angelina lying on the bed.

Oh my goodness, is she dead, asked Eva in a trembling voice.

The neighbour approached the bed and slowly touched Angelinas hand. I am afraid that I think that she is. Would you like me to call the police for you. With a nod of her head, he then led her back into the living room and dialled the emergency number. Within a very short time the police were at the flat. Many questions were asked and Eva managed to answer them, but with a shaking voice. The officer in charge asked Eva would she kindly identify the body for them. They led the way back into the bedroom and Eva glanced down at the still form of Angelina. Ever so slightly she nodded her head. Yes, this is Angelina. For the first time she looks as though she is perfectly at ease. The constant furrowed brow has smoothed out and she has a smile, a smile that is ever so knowing, as though she is quite aware of where she is going.

Just as they were all leaving the bedroom, the wind chime suddenly tinkled in the otherwise silent air. With a smile spreading across her face Eva said, There she finally goes and now I am sure that she has attained everything that she has ever wanted. Peace for herself.

Eva now left the flat and said a silent farewell, the next time that she would be near to Angelina, would be at the funeral. But for now Eva could leave with the knowledge that her friend was happy and no doubt at some time or other be in contact through some

channel or other. The mysteries of the departed souls would always remain a secret, for no one would ever truly know where they go.

The End

Money Can't Buy You Love

By

Greta Ann Hughes

Money Cant Buy You Love

Penny had everything, the looks, the figure and the money. But there was one thing that she didnt have and that was someone to love her. She had had plenty of followers for her money. She was a very wealthy person. Her father had built up a multi-million pound corporation, which dealt in the components used in satellite transmissions. Her elder brother, James, would one day take over the running of the business, but for her she had very little to do with any sort of work in the company itself.

Penny had been given a boutique as a present for her eighteenth birthday by her parents. She was very happy popping in there from time to time, just to check on how things were going. She had employed four talented and attractive girls to run the shop for her. It wasnt that she was lazy, it was just that she couldnt concentrate on anything for too long. She got bored and her attention started to wander. What she was good at was playing the hostess at parties. The other was travelling. She loved to see the sights of all the countries she visited, as well as keeping her tan up on the glorious golden beaches.

It was on one of her many trips that she met Angelo. She was staying at the beautiful town of Sorrento, with the breathtaking views and the island of Capri and the busy centre of Naples. With such a setting as this, she felt that she must find the true love that she so wanted to have.

After breakfast the next morning, Penny decided to go for a walk through the market. There was very little that she needed, but there was always such an array of goods to

catch your eye and to tempt you, that just the thought of this made you want to go and buy. As she was busy browsing through the stalls, a very handsome, tall bronzed man started to follow her. The way she moved through the crowded narrow aisles, showed that she was very sure of herself. The elegant lift of her shoulders, combined with the slender neck, which held aloft her face which could bewitch a man. He followed in the wake of her perfume, breathing in the scented air which she left behind. When she decided to sit down and have a cappuccino at one of the bars, he took the time to introduce himself to her.

Signorina, may I please join you at your table. I have been following you for a short while, taking in the way you move and the beauty of your face. My name is Angelo and I live just a few streets away.

The way he spoke to her made her stomach do somersaults and she uttered a shaky response, Please, do sit down. You took me by surprise, I had had no idea that you were following me. My name is Penny. She held out her hand in greeting to him and he bent his head low and gently kissed the smooth skin on the back of her hand.

His English was excellent, which was just as well, as Pennys Italian wasnt very good at all. She could manage to get by when she was out shopping or ordering from restaurants. She had tried on many occasions to try to learn another language, but she had come to the conclusion that it just wasnt in her to learn. She used to lapse off into another world and would suddenly be jolted awake by one of the other students to tell her that the class was over.

Penny and Angelo covered many topics of conversation and the more that they talked, the more that Penny started to feel as though she was falling in love with this man. His eyes were like deep fathomless pools, which she felt as though she could dive into and never reach the bottom. His soothing accented voice, lulled her into a state of heavenly dreaming. She shook her head slightly, to try and dispel some of the feelings and to try to get herself under control. Dont be such a silly fool, she said to herself. You have been in this situation hundreds of times, for once do not let your emotions carry you away on a wave.

After having had their second cups of cappuccino, Angelo asked her to meet him later and they would go for an evening meal. He said that he would pick her up at her hotel at 7 oclock that evening. He kissed her hand again and they said their good-byes.

Penny was all of a dither for the rest of the day. She bathed and dressed, but then decided she didnt feel comfortable in the dress she had chosen. She changed again and repaired her make-up. Then she was finally ready for her dinner date.

The telephone in the room jingled quite suddenly, which made her jump. The call was to announce that Angelo had arrived and was waiting in the foyer for her. She decided to take the stairs, it would give her time to get herself calmed down. She noticed him at once as she reached the foot of the stairs. He looked more gorgeous than he had earlier. He was dressed casually, but the way he held his shoulders back, with his head tilted to the side, gave him the air of someone who had much confidence. She was also glad that she had chosen to wear the deep blue silk dress, which clung to her body like her own

skin, this was topped with a shear gossamer lace shawl, which went over the silk and shimmered as she walked.

Penny approached him and said, Good evening Angelo, I am sorry if I have kept you waiting. The look in his eyes made her legs go weak. Mia cara, you look absolutely stunning. I dont know if I should be taking you out in public. So many will want to catch your eye, but I hope that I will out shine them all. For I would not like to left without you.

Angelo led the way out of the hotel and after a short walk they arrived at the restaurant. The view from their table looked out to sea, across which the lights of Naples could be seen. Many boats were still going across the water, the lights shimmering like stars on the dark water.

After they had eaten Angelo suggested that they take a walk. The night air was still and balmy. The air was filled with the sound of the night life. There seemed to be a buzz around the town. People walked around, looking in at the many shops which stayed open till late. The younger people walked up and down, showing themselves off like beautiful peacocks on parade. Angelos arm circled her waist and he drew her to him. My house is just here, please would you like to come in for some refreshment. It has grown quite warm as we have walked and I am sure that something cool would be ideal. She said yes straight away, that look was back in his eyes and she couldnt say no.

He led her inside and they were greeted with a cool air, which touched the skin like the

soft fur of a kitten and sent a slight shiver down her spine. After taking a seat in the lounge, Angelo brought in chilled champagne and after filling the glasses he sat beside her. She smiled at him and sipped at her drink. She was overcome by shyness and couldnt think of anything to say. This was something that she was not used to. She could always hold a good conversation and had many stories which she could tell. Angelo could tell that she felt different from their morning conversations, as she had gone very quiet and seemed to be in a world far far away. He gently took the glass from her hand and after placing these on the table nearby, he drew her to him. His kiss made her melt and she had the feeling of sinking into the couch which they were sitting upon. Soon his hand was expertly undoing her dress and tugging this gently down to her hips. His lips fell upon her breast, her nipples were like the full buds on a new rose tree. Soon they were both naked.

When they both finally pulled themselves away from each other, all that could be heard was the leaves rustling in the night breeze which fill the room. They were both breathless with the frenzy of their lovemaking. Angelo wrapped her in a robe which he had brought in from his bathroom. As his fingers touched her glistening skin, a fresh wave of excitement ran through her.

Once she had gained her breath she said, I dont know what you must think. The only thing that I can say is, that the way you look at me just makes me go so weak. The power which you have over me, is so strong, that I cannot resist you. I must also say that I really wouldnt want to either. This last she said looking straight him.

It is I who should apologies to you, but I cannot say that what we have just done, was something that I had planned, it wasnt. Today was the first time that my life felt as though it has been taken over. You strike me as someone who is totally different from other girls that I have met. Most of them wanted me for one thing. The riches of my family.

You dont know how that sounds to me. For as long as I can remember, all the guys that I have dated have been the same. My father owns ONeil Morgan Electronics, the largest company dealing in satellite components. As soon as I have even mentioned the company name, I have seen their faces change. You can read the expressions, money, is read across them. Penny looked at him in a new light, sure her feelings this time were right. Could she have found Mr Right?

They talked for what seemed like hours. Angelo had made coffee and they sipped the strong black coffee as they told each other about themselves. Soon the new day was dawning and as the sun started rise, they found themselves in a new embrace of love. This time they took the time to explore each other. Angelo took in way that the small birthmark, at her hip, which looked like a tulip opening up fully, seemed to get redder each time that he caressed her. Penny felt the power which seemed to pulsate through him. His shoulders were broad and strong, his chest shone with small beads of heat.

For quite some time afterwards, they lay side by side. The warmth of the early morning sun slipped across their naked bodies. Penny thought, soon I must leave and go back to the hotel. What will they think when they see that her bed had not been slept in. A smile

turned up the corners of her mouth. As Angelo saw this he asked, What could you be thinking about, may I ask. If it is more lovemaking, then I must disappoint you, you have worn me out. But as he said this, his face gave away the small lie that he was telling.

No you mustnt. I have to go back to the hotel. I must look an absolute wreck. And what will they think when they see me walk in, looking like this. Penny gently pushed him aside and made her way to the bathroom.

After freshening herself up she went into the kitchen. Angelo had made fresh coffee, the aroma which filled the room was soon tantalising her taste buds. The coffee made her feel more awake. She thought that she would feel embarrassed now that they were both fully clothed again. But as Angelo slipped his arm around her waist and pulled her to him gently she felt so at home with him.

Dont go, he whispered in her ear. Now that I have found you, I dont want you to ever leave my side. Someone else may take you away from me.

After all this time that I have been alone, I dont think that that will happen. You can take it from me, that I will be here forever. That is, if you still want me. Penny held his face and stroked the strong outline of his jaw, with the darkness of the hair waiting to be be shaven off. But it also gave him a certain ruggedness.

I will ask you now, but I must ask you to give this your deepest thought. I said that I dont want you to leave me, so now I ask, will you marry me? After saying this, Angelo

turned away from her. He didnt want to risk seeing her face, if her answer was to be no.

After several moments of silence, Penny took hold of his hand. As he turned around to face her again, he saw that there was the biggest smile that he had ever seen. Her eyes shone with a brightness and he felt dazzled in them. The only word that she spoke was, Yes. Although she knew that this was a whirlwind romance, she was sure that she was making the right decision.

After they had made arrangements for Angelo to pick her up at her hotel later on in the day, Penny took the time to stroll back to her hotel. She wanted to have the time to herself and to think of the happiness which she had found. She also thought of what she would say to her parents. This time when she said that she was going away for a break, they had told her that it was about time that she started to think more about her future and of who else she could think better who could become her husband, than that of a friend of the family. They had told her that the son of one of the directors of the company was of eligibility and they thought there was nothing wrong in trying to arrange a marriage for her.

This would certainly come as a shock to them. But she couldnt see herself walking down the aisle to be married to someone who she didnt love. All that now would be changed.

As she continued to walk back to the hotel, she glanced at the many shops. She stopped outside of one, Italian designed wedding dresses were on display. She could picture

herself in one of the long flowing dresses. Her step quickened and by the time that she arrived at the hotel she was a little out of breath.

After getting her key from the reception desk and having noticed the raised eyebrow from one of the waiters, she hurried up to her room.

She quickly showered and changed and then took a few moments to get herself together. There was an important telephone call which she was about to make and she didnt want to get herself all worked up.

Penny dialled her home number carefully. After several rings her mother answered the call. Mummy, I have some wonderful news. I have met the most wonderful guy you could ever want to meet. I am sure that you and dad will think that he is fabulous too. Please say that you can come out straight away. I need you here. His name is Angelo and he has asked me to marry him. No, please dont say anything. I have said yes.

But Penny, how on earth can you marry someone that you hardly know. What could you have been thinking of. I cant imagine what your father will have to say about this. You know that he would like you to marry into the Harrington family. Young William would be ideal for you. Her mother sounded near to tears.

Oh please dont worry so mummy. Please just call me back and let me know when you will be arriving here. There is so much to do. Also I have yet to meet his parents. This is something that I am not really looking forward to. No doubt he will be feeling the

same. Dont you feel happy for me: Pennys voice sounded like when she was very young and she had got a new present, full of cheer.

Finally her mother said, OK, just stay by the telephone for a little while. I will go and tell your father.

Later on in the day when Penny was starting to make out her wedding list, the telephone rang. Ciao mia cara. I will be along in a little while to pick you up. We are going to my parents house for early drinks and evening meal. I have told them all about you and they cannot wait to see who has stolen my heart.

Angelo, I still cannot fully accept that I am to be married. You do still want to marry me. My family will be arriving in two days time. They will be staying here at the hotel with me.

They do not need to stay at the hotel, they must come and stay at my family home. There is plenty of room and we can all get to know each other better. You must also come and stay.

Angelo arrived promptly at her hotel and they set off to his parents home. It wasnt very far away, they took the route for Amalfi and turned off up a hillside. Along with the villa there was also several hundred acres of vineyards. The fields were busy with people, as with the heat they had to keep the grapes tended so that they wouldnt loose out at picking time. The grapes were then sent to their factory, to be made into wine. The

familys name of Maravalli was given to the wine. The red wine which was produced, had the flavour of ripe damsons, with a bouquet of wild cherries.

Soon they arrived at the house. The gardens were in full bloom and in the late afternoon sun the colours were brilliant against the dark red brick of the building. Angelo took her arm and led her up the short flight of steps and in to the cool interior of the hall. They had no sooner entered, when Angelos mother came down the stairs. She held out her hand in greeting. Just one look at you and I must say that my son is a very fortunate young man to have caught your eye. Please, welcome to our family. Your papa will be with us in just a few moments. Come, let us go into the lounge. I have got a special champagne for us to celebrate with.

With that they settled themselves down in the luxurious room. The room was decorated in deep sky blue and rich dark gold brocades. It gave a feeling of wealth but not ostentatious. As they sipped their drinks, Penny was asked many questions. She was not put off at all by the most intimate questions, which were asked. Obviously they wanted to know that their son and he was the heir to the company, that he wasnt making a mistake and that Penny was serious and not just out for his money.

By this time Angelos father had joined them. He took her hand and kissed her on the cheeks and welcomed her to the family. I dont think that there can be any doubt that arrangements for the wedding cannot be started straightaway. We have waited for this day for a long time.

The evening passed by very quickly. They made plans for everyone to stay at the villa, then it was time for Penny to get back to the hotel. As Angelo drove them away he said, You dont really think that you are going back to the hotel do you? All evening I have been breathing in your perfume of wild roses and drinking in your beauty, I now want to peel away your clothing, like the petals on a rose and to take in the ripeness of your revealed loveliness. Saying that he whisked her away to his apartment.

The day came when Pennys parents arrived and they all set off at once for the villa Maravalli. It was the first time that Pennys mother had been to Italy and she was taken aback with the beauty of the place. You could see the heat shimmering across the sea, sending silver sprays into the air. Once everyone was settled in at the villa, there then came the discussion of when the date would be best for them all. Talk seemed to go on forever, soon Angelo and Penny were looking at each other and they could sense that they both wanted to go out and be alone for a while. Both families knew that these preparations seemed to be moving quickly, but the young couple wanted the wedding to be soon.

We can see that the two of you want to be together. Go out and let us continue with the boring aspects of your wedding, the lists of who sits with whom etc. This was said with a wave of Angelos mothers hand and wide smiles from everyone else.

As Penny and Angelo walked through the gardens, all that could be heard were the singing of the crickets and the shining of the stars above. Angelo held her close and as Penny reached up to hold his face closer to hers, she whispered, They said that money

cant buy you love, but for us ours has brought us together.

Inside the villa the two families talked on until late. Now that their two dearest children were to be wed, they could look forward to all their new futures.

The End

Annie's Lost Love

By

Greta Ann Hughes

Contents

...................... Annie's Life ..................... The Meeting ..................... William's Tale

Part One

Annie's Life

Annie's Life

Annie was lost in her own private thoughts. As she gazed out over her balcony at the oncoming tide as it swept its way in on the darkened seas. There had been a time, a very long time ago, that she had spent hour upon hour looking out at the sea. She had been searching over the darkness for a sign that he was returning to her. Now on this chilly dark night, she was deep in thought.

It was now a year since Robert, her husband, had died and many memories were now flooding into her mind. She was thinking of all the happy times that she had spent with him. They had run barefoot across the white sandy beaches, had swum in the sun warmed sea and later with their children had made sandcastles with moats and ate icecreams, which melted in the heat of the sun. But there was also another memory which now forced itself upon her. This night of all nights, it just wouldn't go away.

As Annie thought of this, her mind carried on wandering over the past and with a deep sigh she let the distant pathway open up, and she was carried further into the picture which her mind was now creating for her.

Annie's first love had been William. He was tall, dark and handsome, just like the men you read about in the romantic story books, that Annie was so mad about. They had first come across each other at the local dance hall. Annie had been a frequent visitor there, along with her best friend Freda. Every Friday and Saturday nights both of them could be found there, dancing away to the sounds of the popular tunes of Glenn Miller, which was played by a local band called The Norfolk Band.

It was just as Freda was going to the bar to get them both a refreshing drink, the evening was a very hot one, and they had both been dancing since getting into the hall, that the tall dark stranger accidentally bumped into Freda. Oh, please pardon me, I wasn't looking where I was going. I hope that I haven't damaged your foot by treading so heavily on it with my size 10 boots. His smile lit up his face and as Freda mumbled that no, no I think everything is alright.

She then quickly made her escape from him and breathing a sigh of relief she ordered two shandies from the barman. Glancing back to where she had left Annie, she saw that the stranger was now deep in conversation with Annie and that by the look on her face she was enjoying his company very much. Freda at first felt a little jealous pang tug at her heart, but she knew that he wouldn't have really given her a second glance, especially with Annie being present. Annie had always been able to talk to anyone about absolutely anything. But as Freda was thinking this, a smile came to her face. She had brought forth an image of Dan. He was the assistant foreman in the warehouse, at the manufacturers of overcoats and where Freda. also worked. Walker & Sons had been in business for over 40 years, they were designers of coats and were made on the premises as well. Many of

the coats were specially commissioned for some of the wealthier people who lived in Cromer and the surrounding areas.

Annie and Freda had finished school at the same time and both of them had enquired about work at Walker & Sons. Annie who was the creative one, was taken on and had a place in the design department, and as Freda had nimble fingers she had been taken on in the finishing department, stitching the intricate designs onto some of the elegant evening cloaks which were made there. Both of them were extremely lucky they said to have landed the opportunity to be working together in the same place.

The company had also just received a commission to do some work for the military, they were to make the overcoats to keep the brave men and women of the forces warm, when out in the battle fields. This work would keep them all very busy for quite some time. Some said that it could last for several years. As the war now waged on between Germany and Great Britain, time was also something to cherish as there was so much sorrow being shed throughout the country, especially amongst the bereaved families.

Freda finally gathered up the two drinks and headed back to where she had left Annie. Even though the stranger was still keeping Annie fully occupied with some story or other, she felt that it was time for her to intervene. You had to be so careful, there was too much hurt which could be caused if you didn't watch yourselves, because where a seemingly innocent moment was happening, this could turn as quickly into a tragedy.

Hi Annie, I'm back. I bet you thought I had perhaps run off with the barman. Here's

your drink, it should still be cold, even though I have been gone for quite a few minutes. Freda smiled pleasantly at the stranger. Are you going to introduce me. Even though my foot has been well acquainted with his. This was followed by a shy nervous laugh.

Well hello there, my name is William, but all my friends call me Bill. As I was saying to Annie, I am stationed nearby at the RAF airfield. Half a dozen of our squadron have been given a 24hour pass and we thought maybe it was time for us to have a short break and get ourselves a little enjoyment. I don't know if you can imagine it or not but there are very few hours when we do manage to get time off. But ladies, please don't let me be the wet blanket of the night. Who wants to keep a lonely RAF guy company by dancing the light fandango?

This man's smile could melt even the most hardest of hearts. Feigning that her foot still hurt her a little, Freda almost pushed Annie towards and into the waiting arms of the now not so secret stranger called William.

As the night's hour approached 11.30 and although they thought themselves old enough to be out late at night, both sets of parents agreed that because of the war and the frequent unscheduled blackouts, they preferred it if they were both home by midnight.

Annie made her way back to where her friend was sitting and with one hand held against her breast she said somewhat breathlessly, I don't think that I have danced for so long and with someone who without a doubt knows how to glide across the dance-floor. I feel totally exhausted. I do hope that you will not think me too rude if both Freda and myself

now say good-night. We like to be home by 12 o'clock. I know, just like Cinderella, although I do have to say that neither of us have ever lost a shoe and by such a consequence been sought out by a dashing young prince. Annie fluttered her long blonde eyelashes, lashes so long that there was no need for any cosmetic's to make them longer or fuller. Mascara was one of the things that had to be used sparingly due to rations.

Ladies, please do not fear. I can quite understand how people are feeling today. Scarcely a day, or night, goes by without someone that we know, if only by association of knowing them third or fourth hand, that some ill-fate has befallen them. Would you like me to escort you home? William was of course speaking more to Annie, even though he included Freda by giving her a sideways look.

No, but thank you for your kind offer. We live such a short way away that it would be a shame to take you away from the entertainment which will no doubt be going on for at least another hour.

It would be no trouble. But I can see from your expression that my idea will still be met by a negative response. He put his hand inside his jacket pocket and took out a notebook and quickly wrote down his full name and where he was stationed. Perhaps, you may like to write to me. I know that I am not far away, but even the briefest of notes can mean so much to us who don't know where they are going to be sent off to the next day.

His hand held the slip of paper out to Annie. As she smiled up at him, she felt the first fluttering of her heart. She shook her head ever so slightly so as not to make it look as though she was saying no, and took the paper from him. Their hands touching ever so briefly.

I'm not much at writing letters, but I will gladly send you news of what is happening here. We must be setting off now. I hope you enjoy the rest of the evening, and one never knows, but you could be back here very soon. The sooner the better she thought to herself. With nothing else to say, Annie and Freda said their final good-nights and left William and the dance hall to set off back to their homes.

The next week passed by so quickly that Annie didn't have a chance to do anything in the evening, apart from eat her evening meal and drag herself off to an early bed. She was so worn out after her day at work. Business was extremely busy, what with the new season coming up and all the samples to be prepared, also the new contract had been set out with strict deadlines. With it being a government contract there was no going back on the dates which had being given out and agreed to. Failure of the company to comply could mean the contract being canceled and with that a great deal of money would also be lost.

As Friday evening came around, Freda called for her friend at her usual time of 7 o'clock.

She knocked at the door and was let in by Annie's mother and was told that she could go straight up to Annie's room. Are you ready Annie, I thought that we might try to see the new play at the Derby Theatre. I have heard that it is very funny. I could do with a laugh after all the hard graft I put in at work this week. Oh my, what on earth has happened to you? Freda had come to a complete standstill, she had not even looked at Annie when she had first entered her bedroom, but had just continued chattering on. You look absolutely awful. Sorry, but I cannot lie. Your face is puffed up and your eyes are like two little peas.

Just saying this made Freda start to laugh. She was not one at the best of times to keep a straight face. But looking at her poor friends face, she started to giggle again. This has got to be better than going to the theatre. Freda continued. Her shoulders shaking with her laughter.

It's OK for you, just you wait and see what happens when you have to start to use that awful material that they are calling lining for the military overcoats. It has some sort of cheap thermal fibre that they are using. Jeepers but it doesn't half itch. Annie started to rub at the side of her face again.

Just as Annie had started to scratch her face, in came her mother carrying a large bottle which contained some very pink liquid. Annie dear, please stop scratching, you are only going to make it worse. I have been down to Jenkin's the chemist and he has made up some calamine lotion for you. He said that for this to work properly you must put plenty on and don't wash it off for several hours. Hello again Freda, I'm sorry that you

have come around here tonight expecting to go out, but as you can see by Annie's face, she is in no state to go anywhere. I do hope that this isn't something which all of you at work are going to get. I'll bet on my last penny that Mr. Walker will not be very amused if you all end up looking like our Annie. After saying this she left the two girls on their own. But not before saying to apply the lotion straight away if she wanted her face to get better soon.

Left on their own again, Freda said that she would put the calamine lotion on Annie for her. As soon as this was done, they talked about their weeks work and that now that the weekend was theirs to do as they pleased, even though Annie didn't feel up to much, but they thought that perhaps if she was a little better the next day, then they might just pack a light lunch and go for a picnic on the beach. They knew of a quiet spot and as the holiday season was almost over, they were pretty sure of not being disturbed there. Many of the tourists had stayed away this summer. The cost of travelling had risen too much. Many more also preferring to stay where their loved ones were.

I'm sorry Freda, but would you mind awfully if I asked if I could be left alone, I feel pretty miserable and I am sure that you must have something better to do than to look at my horrid face. I'll see you in the morning and we will spend the time on the sea front all being well. Thanks for being such a good sport in sitting here for so long. Freda bent over and placed a sisterly kiss on to her friends cheek, careful not to get too much of the calamine lotion on herself.

Goodnight then. See you tomorrow. Keep your hands down by your sides, perhaps I

should tie them together so that you won't be tempted to sneak a quick scratch.

The next day arrived bringing with it a clear blue sky, with just the hint of a cool breeze. Annie's face was looking much better, the lotion had taken the bright red blotches away and had stopped the incessant itching. Packing a small lunch box with sandwiches and cool lemonade, both girls made their way to the beach and set themselves up for the day. With the sun cream covering them, they lay down to soak up the sunshine. As Annie lay back she said, Can you imagine what I found in my purse last night? Well I'll tell you. Remember the air force guy William, it was his address at the barracks where he is based. I had almost forgotten it. But being bored I thought I would tidy up my handbag of all the pieces of paper you pick up, and there it was. At first I thought perhaps I should just pop it into the bin along with all the other bits I was throwing out. But then again I thought that if he was as lonely as he said he was, then maybe a short note could be just the thing to perk him up. You'll never believe me, but I have written to him. Yes, yes I know, don't be giving me that look, I know what I am doing. I even got my brother to put it in the post for me, after bribing him with the money so that he can go and see the afternoon matinee at the cinema.

Annie, I think that you must be barmy. The itchy face must have affected your brain as well as your looks. And no, you still have a pretty face, of that I'm sure you already know. But what do you really think of him, did you find him attractive? Freda was now sitting up and smiling down at the still form of her friend.

Still not moving, Annie replied, Umm, well he was quite hunky wasn't he? It may be

fun to actually have a date with him. But I'm sure that I must be barking up the wrong tree to be thinking of such a thing. I wonder if he will write back. This last she said more to herself than wanting a reply from her friend.

The day wore on and after having their picnic lunch, they set themselves up in the shade and talked at length about their hopes and dreams of where they wanted to be when the war was over and who, if they could choose, they would like to spend the rest of their lives with. Silly girl talk, but something that almost always got the imagination racing far ahead of what may or may not happen.

Several more hot sunny days followed, everyone was making the most of the sun. But on waking on the Saturday morning, the weather had changed dramatically, bringing with it dark heavy clouds which threatened a downpour of rain at any moment. A cold wind was blowing in from the sea. Just then the morning post arrived. Bobby the postman had brought her a letter which was completely drenched with the rain which had been threatening to fall all morning. The address was just about readable, as the writer had used a fountain pen and the ink was still somewhat wet and running down the envelope.

Quickly opening it and getting the folded paper out without causing any further damage to the enclosed paper, Annie read the brief but very compact letter.

My dear dear Annie,

I truly thought that I would not hear from you ever again. But my wishes have been heard and I can now say that you have made me the most happiest of men stationed here. I have managed to wangle a late pass and I will be at the dance hall tonight. I do hope that you can be there. May I also say that I hope that your friend Freda will not be too put out, but I have asked a friend of mine to come along. Not that I want to play matchmaker, but I would really like to have the time to spend the evening with you. I will finish in the hopes that you will be there tonight, perhaps you might want to keep this our little secret and keep quiet about it until you are both there. Although please do not think that I am wanting to split up a friendship which you have obviously shared for many years. Until tonight then, with my fondest wishes, William.

He had even put the little cross symbolising a kiss. With her heart going ten to the dozen Annie ran upstairs to check through her wardrobe. She knew that she was being silly, but this was surely going to be a night to remember and she wanted to look her best. Maybe she could pop into town to the little charity shop which had recently opened. With the war on, any of the latest new fashions on the high street to wear, was something that was taking a back seat. But you could always be sure to pick up a bargain which, with just a little tinkering and a few pieces of ribbon or fake jewellery, you could make up your own fashion outfit. So thinking, she took herself off down to the high street.

It wasn't long before she found herself a a pair of trousers and a pretty blouse. The trousers were just like the ones she had seen in a magazine a few weeks earlier. Even though the style was something which she would be copying from an American designer,

she thought what the heck, in for a penny in for a pound. The blouse which she had bought to accompany the trousers was quite plain, but had large puffy sleeves. She hoped fervently that the rain would stop and that all that she would need to top her outfit off would be the light pale blue cardigan that her mother had made her for the summer months.

Back home she hurriedly unpacked her goods and made straight for the sewing machine. This was something which was in constant use in their house. Her mother was very cleaver in altering and making things. People in the street always knew where to come if they needed anything repairing or making. She had made many bridal gowns and bridesmaids dresses. This was where Annie had got her eye for any intricate embroidery or stitched designs. She also knew how to cut the many fabrics in which to make the new designs that there were to be made.

Seven thirty on the dot both Annie and Freda stepped into the dance hall. I don't know what has come over you tonight, but you have been like a cat on a hot tin roof. Jumping at the slightest thing that I have said. And just look at you now. Who are you expecting to see? Oh I get it, don't look at me like that, I know you too well. It's him isn't it? Well I wish you had told me and you cannot deny that you know nothing, because by the look on your face, you have already arranged something.

After having said this, from behind Freda a voice said, good evening ladies, I am glad to see you both looking so well and I do hope that you are both going to enjoy tonight dancing the night away with us. But please, where are my manners. Let me introduce to

you my friend, Graham. We both joined the forces at the same time and so we have both been in the same position together, that is not knowing where our right foot or left foot should be going. It took us both the same amount of time to get the rhythm right so that we could march properly.

Standing beside William was a young man, slightly smaller but much rounder in the face than William was his friend Graham. With a nervous cough he finally said hello. Talk about shy, he had about as much go in him as a deflated balloon Freda thought. Just as she was going to say something, she realised that she had been left alone with him. Far out on the dance floor she could just make out the couple dancing ever so close together. Well what the heck, why should she spoil her friends nights out, even though she would have been more than happier if she had been told about the pre-arranged rendezvous.

The evening wore on far too quickly for Annie, but not as quick for Freda, for her night had been quite boring. She would have preferred to have spent the time at home baking with her mother, than with this man who could just about string two words together. I'm sorry that we have to leave so early, but if we don't get back to our barracks we could possibly get a charge and I know that we have a rather delicate task to do in the afternoon. So, Annie, I will say goodnight and I will wish for the time to go speedily until we can next meet.

Annie looked as though she might have cried at any moment, but as his arms went around her and his lips gently brushed against hers in the briefest of kisses, and then in the next moment both he and Graham were driving off down the road, leaving her feeling

breathless and out of control.

Finally she shook her head and looked at her friend, oh Freda, I think that I have fallen in love. He held me so close as we danced, that I felt if we were to move apart I would surely fall over, like a building without its walls. Can you just imagine that Annie's smile radiated right across her face and if there had been no lights around them, they would still have been able to see just with the shine which was coming from her glowing face.

Annie, I don't want to be the wet blanket, but please be very careful. I know what you are thinking, I sound just like your mother. But don't ever forget, she normally knows what she is talking about. Where as me, I could so easily get entangled up with the wrong person and end up in goodness knows what sort of predicament. You know what I am talking about. Things which we have read about in our magazines which our parents don't know we read. Freda was always the sensible one, if you needed to be put off something, go and see Freda as she would soon sort you out in next to no time at all.

But this night was the beginning of the romance that Annie had only read about in her books. Although she kept up her friendship with Freda, they started to go their separate ways in the evenings.

Freda had managed to gain the affections of Dan, and she just about had him wrapped

around her little finger. Freda was nearly always the one to take the lead, leaving Dan with little alternative but to follow her, which he did just like a big puppy dog. He was not a man to show his love openly, but one Saturday night when he called at her house to take her to the cinema, he asked if he could have a word with her father. He fumbled about for a few minutes and finally said, I would like to marry your daughter. Erm, that is with your permission. But erm, I know that we are still quite young, but even though you need to take each day as it comes, there has to be a time when you just have to take the bull by its horn, so to speak, and do something quickly about it. Dan stopped talking quicker than he had begun.

There was little doubt, as her father already knew, that if he said no, then Freda would just go over his head and marry Dan anyway. But it was with her fathers blessing that Freda was now telling this to her best friend. Annie's joy at hearing this happy news made her think that maybe, just maybe, they could possibly have a double wedding. Just like her friend, her love had also been going from strength to strength. William and she had spent as much time together as they could get. In the last three months he had managed to get passes for at least every other weekend. This they tried to spend walking along the sea front, or holding hands at the cinema. Not wanting to have any interference from other people around them, they become one soul when they were together.

This Saturday she had asked him if he would like to come to tea before they went out to the dance hall. They had heard that a new band was to be playing there and were looking forward to dancing to some new tunes. When dancing he could hold her close to him.

He had been delighted as he was wanting to have a word with her parents. This would be the fourth time that he had called at her house, but hadn't had the opportunity to stay very long, as Annie was always wanting to dash off with him.

But tonight was going to be different. At 6.30 the door was opened before he even knocked upon it. Smiling brightly Annie led the way into the back room. A warm cosy fire greeted him, even though the smile from Annie had warmed his heart. The smell from the days baking, which her mother had been doing, spread throughout the house, making him feel a little homesick for his own family. His mother could always been found in the kitchen baking, they had always had fresh bread and many cakes and desserts. But today some of those things were just impossible to get. The ration books didn't cover such fancy things. All ingredients tended to be dried, milk and eggs were just two of the main items. But there again, with what you could grow in your garden or even on some of the allotments which were still going, a variety of meals could be had by some people. Many of the neighbours shared their home grown products, so that communities continued to grow, even when some of the younger folks were drafted away.

Today Annie's mother had really been able to lay out a grand table for them. She had chosen a warming dish of poor man's goose, although this lacked the goose, the contents of the pot when cooked, resembled the taste of goose. They were also very lucky to have a large back garden and cornered off to one side, they kept going three to four chickens. With the eggs that they produced most days, she was able to keep up a good supply of a tasty food on their table. Today she had kept a few back in which to bake a large custard

tart. Very filling meal for just a little amount of money and coupons.

When the evening's meal was ready to serve, they were all sitting around the dinner table waiting patiently for her father to pour out a glass of wine for them all. He had managed to find a bottle which he had been saving for just an occasion as this. William had been able to have his talk with her father and now as he tapped his glass to draw attention her father said. Well mother I think that I can say for both of us that we are very happy to welcome you as part of our family. We knew that Annie had given her heart over to someone, and I am very pleased that it is to you. A toast, to a very long and happy life to you both. To Annie and William.

As the glasses were raised to toast the announcement of their engagement, Annie couldn't help it, but tears suddenly welled up and threatened to come pouring down her cheeks. She managed to blink them back and smiled out to both her parents. I don't think that there is a happier person then me at this moment. Thank you so much daddy, and mum this dish which you have served to us tonight will always be from now on the best of meals for me. It will always be a reminder of what a wonderful evening that this has turned out to be.

Obviously Mr. Wilson, I am overjoyed that you have agreed to our engagement. We would like to marry soon. This war cannot go on for much longer. Each day we are gaining more and more on the Germans, making them back down. Now with the Americans on our side as well, the time is surely almost up for them. It will take quite some time before we can regain something of a normal life again, but there is one thing

that we can be sure of and that is that we will be able to enjoy a safer and quieter country for all. William raised his glass in the direction of his future mother-in-law and then extended the gesture towards her father.

The evening wore on and before they knew it, it was time for William to say good-night. He had only been able to get a few hours leave and needed to be back at the barracks for 11.30 that evening. Pulling the front door closed, but without locking it, Annie held onto William. Oh gosh, I wish that you didn't have to go back so early. Perhaps next week you could maybe stay over? She looked up at him, her large blue eyes showing how much love she held for him. Then searching his eyes for the same feelings, she smiled as she then felt his heart beating out against her own chest. Two hearts, thumping and bursting with life and love.

I have to go my love. But never fear, my heart will always be here with you, even when I am far away. Until next week. He kissed her long and hard. Even though the evening had turned cold, the heat which was now coming from them, if there had been ice under their feet, this would no doubt have been melted by the fierceness of their emotions.

With a backwards look and a wave, William set off into the darkness of the late evening.

During the following week Annie and Freda saw very little of each other. The business was extremely busy, what with the new contract and their normal workloads, they had

only a very short time for themselves. As the day approached finishing time on the Thursday, Freda managed to pop her head into the design department and to catch a brief word with Annie. How about coming out for a drink later tonight. I just need to have some time with you, to catch up with all our news. Shall I meet you at the Coffee Pot at 7 o'clock? Annie managed a quick yes, before the telephone started to ring again. Dashing off with a happy wave, Freda picked up her coat and said goodnight to everyone who was left in the office.

She hadn't been sat down for more than a minute when the door opened and in came Annie. Her coat whipped about her slim legs by the wind which had started to blow only a few moments earlier.

How I hate this weather. One minute lovely and sunny and the next a wind which could freeze you if you stood still long enough. Oh how wonderful, a huge beaker of chocolate, just how did you guess that this is what I wanted? Annie smiled and gently patted her best friends hand. I think that you had better go first with your news, because if I know you we will have to book this table again for tomorrow night so that I can get a word in.

Their friendly and happy way of speaking to each other only emphasised how much their knowledge of each other was. They had grown up together and there had been plenty of days and nights when they spent them together, not going home to their own homes. Many people thought that they were sisters because of their closeness.

Well now, where shall I start. As you have no doubt have heard, Dan has proposed to

me. He was ever so shy, I practically had to say the words and ask my dad myself if he had any objections to me marrying Dan. But in the end he got his words out and I was over the moon when dad said that he would be very happy to have Dan as his son-in-law. As you can imagine I was jumping about and giving dad loads of kisses, until in the end he told us both to get out from under his feet, just as if we were two little kids. But there again, I must say that I was behaving very silly. But I was just so excited and my only other wish was, that you could have been there. Freda during all this time had kept hold of her friends hand and was now clasping it so hard that Annie had to shake her hand to get the circulation going through it again.

You are daft you know. Anyway when is the date going to be. And my goodness, just look at your ring. You never said that you had been to the jewellery shop. Tell me which one did you go to. Don't say Jackson's. It was wasn't it. Oh my goodness he really is going to spoil you. They must be the most expensive jeweller's in the high street.

Yes they are. Dan has been going in for weeks and weeks, putting money down for a ring. But it wasn't until he was sure that he had enough that he asked me to marry him, because he wouldn't have liked it if he hadn't been able to give me a ring to show how much he really loves me. Don't you think that that is so sweet? Freda was now holding out the ring to show off how much the light caught in the diamond and how it made a myriad of colours when the light caught upon it. We haven't actually set a definite date as yet, because I wanted to ask you if we could perhaps do a double wedding. I have always known that William was going to propose to you, but I didn't think that he would have taken so long. Would you consider a

Christmas wedding, I am sure that it would be best for both of us? Instead of trying to find a more summery wedding outfit, we could be snuggled up with fur mufflers. I am sure that Mr. Walker would let us buy a couple of them from his stock of samples.

Freda was looking very excited at the prospect of walking down the aisle dressed in winter whites with a dark blue velvet cloak draped over her shoulders and cascading in fluid lines down to the ground. With them both being very clever with dressmaking, they could both look almost like twins.

Annie just couldn't let her friend down and the more she thought of how they both could look, she also caught on to the fabulous idea of Freda's.

Wow, you sure know how to plant a picture in someone's mind. I am just dying to get to the fabric shop tomorrow to start looking for the materials for our wedding gowns. But also, have you thought of who could be our bridesmaids? I have so little family on my side, but do you know, I haven't a clue of what relations William has? Oh dear, I am so caught up with his love, that I haven't even thought of his family. Isn't that awful?

By now some of the elation was starting to fade from Annie. She lost herself in thoughts of who and how many relatives she could be gaining when she was married to William. She made a mental note to herself to ask more about his family when they next met. But for tonight, both of them were going to have a wonderful girly evening and do nothing but talk about the many preparations which they would have to do. Shall we go back to my house and we can start to write down everything that we are going to need? We can

stop at the off licence and buy ourselves a treat, something chocolatey to make us feel very naughty in eating it.

They finished off their mugs of hot chocolate, this just had to be the beginning of something truly wonderful.

Over the next couple of months all the families were busy planning and preparing for the double wedding. They had also called in help from the local florist to do all of the intricate workings of embroidered flowers to be sewn onto the bridesmaid's dresses. The two girls, although they really wanted to be finished early and be at home sorting out their own dresses, were now having to work overtime at Walker's due to the ministry putting more pressure on them to get their orders out to them earlier than what was previously agreed. The weather had turned decidedly colder and the troops were in need of the extra warm clothing. But this was something that Mr. Walker was not going to argue about. He would in the end be being paid a great deal of money for this work.

As December approached, thoughts of the wedding were put on hold for several days. During one evening there was an air raid which partial destroyed the pier and also caused substantial damage to the church. All the local people rallied round giving aid to some of the many wounded people, who had been caught in the sudden attack. These poor souls had had no time in which to reach the shelter and were in the open when the planes had dropped their deadly loads.

Having heard the news of the bombing William and some men from his squadron came down to the town to try and help with some of the repairs. Having cleared everything with his senior officer, he had also managed to bring some building supplies in which to start doing the repairs. Most of the repairs would be to make sure that there was little or no danger to the people of Cromer, by any falling masonry from the church and also to a couple of the houses nearby, which had also suffered critical damage.

They had not been working for very long when Annie walked by the church and was somewhat taken aback to see William, with a wheelbarrow in front of him and working in an old cut down rugby shirt, which showed off his strong arms. Just seeing him like this made her heart jump and miss a beat.

Hello there. I can see that you are hard at work, could you use another pair of hands? I seem to have some time to spare and I'm not shy at doing any sort of dirty jobs. Her radiant smile made the day glow bright, even though there was still a great deal of sadness about the place. But with the tranquility of the surrounding churchyard, she made it feel such a wonderful day.

Well of course we could. What is that saying many hands make light work something like that anyway. Well lets see. You could go and help Simon, he is clearing up on the other side. There are many roof tiles there which need to be put on one side so that we can use them again to patch up the roof. As William handed her a pair of working gloves, which were slightly too big for her, he quickly took the time to steal a

kiss. Ah, that feels so much better. And with a gentle squeeze of her arm he sent her on her way.

With all the extra help which kept arriving at the church, the repairs were being finished off very quickly. There would only be the roof left to be finished off, but that could wait for another day. It was now starting to get dark and as the lights were not allowed to be shown at night, it was time for everyone to set off back to their homes and for the men from the squadron to return to their barracks. Tomorrow would be another long day, but with the wonderful morale that the people of Cromer had shown today, they were sure that the next day would be full of the same happy sounds of men, women and children all working together side by side. For several more days the streets were filled with the sounds of hammering and sawing as the work was being carried out. As the weekend approached, William called at Annie's to say that he was sorry but he had been requested to return to the camp and that his leave was to be cancelled for the next couple of weeks. I know that you are disappointed, just knowing that I have been here working when I could have spent the time with you, but I have to carry out the orders which have been given to me. There will be plenty of time after we are married in which we will be able to spend it together. He kissed her gently, but then he had to draw away from her as he knew that what his heart wanted and what he wanted would be too much for them. Until next week my love, I must now say goodnight and that I will be dreaming of you each and every night.

As he left her standing at the garden gate, Annie felt a shiver which ran straight down the centre of her back. Oh dear, she said to herself, that felt like someone walking over my

grave. This thought was one of dread, which was constantly jumping to the front of her mind in the months to follow.

On the Wednesday evening as she arrived home from work, she was greeted at the front door by her father. She had an awful sensation in the pit of her stomach. Daddy was very rarely at home at this time of the evening. He called her into the front room and there seated by the fireside was the commanding officer from Williams squadron.

Good evening Annie, I am sorry that I have to be here tonight and to be the bearer of some sad news. He glanced up at her father, who nodded his head as if he was giving his consent to what was to be said next. The thing is, William and his team set off late on Saturday evening to do a secret landing. This was carried out successfully, but it was as they began their return that a couple of the men got detached from the main group. Gun shots were heard and in the ensuing chase over open land several of the other men were also caught in the gunfire. I am sorry to have to tell you, but William, whose body as not yet been found, has disappeared. This could mean that he is a prisoner of war, which is something which all of us would prefer to think. As it is early days in our enquiries to find out where our men are, we can at the present only hope that he will turn up safe and well.

As the commander finished the telling of this news, in walked her mother and was ready to be with Annie as the reality of what she had just been told fully hit her. And she was

sure that this would be the first of many evenings and to be followed by days of broken heartache.

As the wedding day grew nearer and there was no word of where William was or even if his body had been found. The two families got together and said that although this was to be the most happiest of times for them, they would also have to think of Freda. It was after all to be her wedding day as well. And even with the unhappiness which would no doubt cloud the day, they all said that Freda and Dan's wedding should go ahead as planned.

On the day of the wedding, the morning broke with a cloudless sky and with the sun shining high above. During the wedding ceremony the Reverend Hutchinson, put aside a few moments of quiet to say a prayer for the safe return of William. William had also touched the hearts of many of those present at the church this day.

Annie said thank you to those who were gathered about during the time when the photographs were being taken and then going over to her best friend, she placed her arms about her and wished her all the love and happiness which would follow them both. She then said good-bye to her friend as she didn't want to be the one with a long face to spoil the happiness of the day. She left her parents at the wedding buffet telling her mother that she just wanted some time alone. Some time for her to think of what the future was to hold for her. For her to wonder whether she would ever feel the happiness and love that had so cruelly been taken away from her.

Many months later Freda came dashing round to her friends house. She wanted her to be the first to know of the child that she was now carrying. Freda and Dan had both agreed that when she found herself to be expecting, then she was to tell Annie first. Although the news was the best news that could be told at this time, Annie was in a somewhat quiet mood as she had been told that William was now being classed as missing in action and that they were to fear the worst. Over time everyone kept saying that things would get better, but how could it Annie thought. My hopes and dreams of spending the rest of my life with the man the I love, was now to be classed as over, when really their lives had only just begun.

In time Annie did put her heartache to one side, even though she knew that the hole that was now open and empty would never truly be filled. She did find someone who wanted to hold her and to take care of her, his name was Robert. She had met him at a reading club that she had become a member of. Reading was one thing which took all her sorrows away and she grabbed at this chance as often as she could. Books were something which held fantasies, and of other loves which were lost and found again. If only mine could be found, Annie thought to herself.

As Robert and her, almost always ended up being seated next to each other at the club, it was only time which gradually brought them together. Robert worked on his fathers farm and as his job involved him in getting up at the very early hours of the morning, this reading club was one way in which he could unwind from a busy working schedule

where no two days were the same. Farm animals were not something that could be predictable. They were often very stubborn and needed to be coaxed out of giving the milk or eggs. The one constant element with them was, that they needed to be cleaned out daily.

One evening as they prepared to leave the reading group, Robert asked if he could walk with her. This was the start of their brief courtship. And so, almost a year and a half to the day that she had had her first proposal of marriage, Robert asked her to be his wife. She told him that although she loved him, part of her heart was still broken, but if he could accept her as she was, then she would be his wife and would be proud to have him as her husband. She would always be there for him when he needed her.

The wedding bans were read and after a very quick and quiet service, with a small get together afterwards. Annie and Robert sneaked away and went back to the farm to pick up their cases. They had booked a one week break in a small hotel down in Dover. Many people thought that the wedding was a cover up for a baby which was surely to be had soon. How wrong could those thoughts have been.

Over the years her friendship with Freda lessened. Annie finished working at Walkers, saying that she was now needed more at the farm. Her father-in-law had had a stroke and had now become bedridden. As there was only Robert to look after everything on the farm, she felt that it was her duty to take care of her husband and father-in-law. Her daily routine now began by getting up before dawn to make sure that a good hot breakfast was cooked for Robert and that he took out with him a packed lunch, because many a time he

was caught up so much in his farm work that he rarely came back in until late in the evening. The other reason which Annie had kept to herself, was that she was unable to have children. Her best friend had been blessed with having three really sturdy and happy children and the ocassions when she saw them she felt a resentment which she knew that she shouldn't have. It wasn't the little ones fault. The fault lay in the dreadful accident in which Robert was involved in.

One day as Robert had been seeing to the cattle in the far field, one of the cows had decided to run amok in the field and in trying to protect the rest of the herd he was trampled on and when she found him he had been unconscious for several hours and had lost a great deal of blood. The doctors at the hospital had been marvellous in being able to rescue his arm, but his lower back had been seriously injured and he had been told that he would not be able to father any children. They both said that they were just so happy to have each other, that this unfortunate circumstance in their lives, they would be able to cope with.

Over time that Robert spent with Annie, showing her how to manage the farm, they had very little time for any leisure pursuits. Getting up in the mornings together and wending their weary way to bed in the evening, was the only thing that they did together.

A neighbouring farmer Burt, who was also a good friend, stepped in one week, to give them both a break. Don't you think that this would be a good time to get away. You have both worked far too hard and Lily and I both say that you need this time alone. Now off you go. This was something that they were both very grateful for. Also it

worked both ways for the two families. So now every other year they looked after each others farm, whilst the other one managed to go away for a holiday. For quite some time after the war there was hardship, but as everything started to settle down, more and more businesses started to grow in the area, which was good for the economy and the tourists started to return to the seaside resort.

Do you know, I can't remember the last time that we had a break? Even our honeymoon was cut short due to my father falling ill. Robert held her close to him, taking in the beating of her heart which he could feel through the thin material of her summer dress. I wonder, he thought to himself, could this time together change Annie, just a little bit to how he once knew her. He could only hope that that would be so.

Annie did start to feel a little happier. Their excursions out to the other towns did a great deal for her complexion. The pain which could often be seen in her eyes dimmed and laughter started to be heard coming from her. Now when they were in the farmhouse, singing was heard coming from the kitchen. She baked daily and took lunch out to Robert. Staying with him and having a bit to eat herself, they became closer and on some of the balmy evenings when all the cattle had been rounded up for the night, they often took to taking walks.

On one such evening Robert pulled her into a freshly bundled hay stack. There he gently made love to her. Oh Robert, you must think that I am an awful wife. You have been so caring towards me and I have given you so little. But from now on all that will change. Annie kissed him back with a passion that she never knew that she possessed.

From that day their lives did change.

Robert decided that it was about time that he employed someone to work with him with all the changes that had taken place, an extra pair of hands were needed. A young lad called Matthew was taken on. He was doing night classes in agriculture and needed more experience working in the farming community. He was eager to learn and could be left with little supervision. This gave Robert time to start work on the extra acres of land that he had been able to buy at a very good price. It had become a time of more relaxation at home, time that both Annie and Robert were happy about.

The time of pressure that had now been taken with the hiring of help, got Annie thinking of something that she had been missing. Annie got in touch with Mr. Walker to ask him if he needed any work done which she could do from home. Well my dear, it is very good to hear from you. There is so much change to the world of fashion that I would welcome any knew ideas. If you are free one day next week, we could perhaps go over some ideas and you can take away some of the magazines which we have, to see what sort of fresh angle you can come up with.

Later that evening she told Robert what she had done. I know that I should have spoken to you first about this idea of mine. But it just popped into my head and being the person that I am, I did the first thing which came to mind and that was to ring Mr. Walker first. Please don't be cross. Annie looked up at Robert's face only to see him smiling down at her.

Annie, you don't know how much all this means to me. You are like a breath of fresh air. This sudden impulse of yours is making you look radiant and that is all that I care about. For far too long you have been down and I will never stop you doing what you feel that is right.

That evening as they lay in bed, holding each other close, Annie could feel the love pulsating between them. Maybe I should have done this a long time ago, she thought to herself. But from now on there will always be lightness whenever we are together.

The next night Annie set out a grand meal for them. She had been thinking all day long about another that matter that was missing in her life. Children. She had so very much wanted to have children, but when the accident had halted this she had put it to the back of her mind, until today. She had done lots of research over the last few days, with the early mornings spent at the library on how to foster or adopt children. She was sure that Robert would be in agreement with. He also knew how much a family meant to them both.

After sitting down with a glass of wine Annie brought the subject up. Robert, I've been doing a lot of thinking today. Maybe we could try for adoption, what do you say?

The lost expression was back again in her eyes as she looked up at him. My darling, as far as I can see this could be the only way to bring a family into this house. I do say that I think that you have been very sneaky. I can now see that your face is changing and that there is lots more for you to tell me. His face broke into a wide smile.

Oh Robert, I think that you have just made me a very very happy woman. And yes, there is something which I omitted to tell you. I have already arranged for us to go to see the adoption services. There can be a long wait, but if you are not wanting a small baby, you can, if all our papers go through easily enough, be able to adopt an older child. I know that I am making this sound as though it is the easiest thing in the world, but I have got to look more on the positive side. I have lived so much just thinking of myself and not given enough time to you and how your feelings are on the matter of not having our own children. Please be patient with me a little longer and I can tell you, I can now honestly say that I will not let you down again. She held him tightly against her with so much strength in her arms, that Robert was struggling to get his breath.

10

They were coming up to their 4th wedding anniversary and as Annie collected that days post from off the door mat, many of the letters were bills, but there was one letter which stood out from the rest. She poured herself another cup of tea and turning the letter over, she gently slit open the envelope with the knife which she had pulled from the drawer. Even more carefully she opened up the letter, she knew that she should call Robert in. This was something which would affect both of their lives. During the many appointments and interviews which they had had to attend for this adoption, it became

obvious that Robert was taking this very seriously. With only one eye open, she read the letter, scanning over the pages quickly at first, then more leisurely to make sure of what she was reading.

Pushing back her chair, which scrapped across the wooden flooring, she made a dash out of the kitchen door and down to the far field where she knew that Robert would be working. Robert, Robert, she cried as she ran across the newly ploughed field. We are going to be parents, she shouted as she got nearer to him.

What, do you mean to say that I can now start to call you mummy? He picked her up and spun her around. The must have looked just like a pair of school children jumping around. When is this going to be? he now had to be a little bit more serious, this was something which was now going to be a major part of their lives.

I can't remember. Come on back to the house, this can surely wait, it will still be here tomorrow.

This was the first time that Annie had almost dismissed their livelihood of the farm. But he couldn't hold that against her, he himself was also feeling very selfish and wanted to get back to read the letter. He also knew that Matthew as working close by, that the lad would take over the jobs yet to be done. Matthew was young and eager to learn everything there was about farming.

After sitting and reading the letter over and over again together, Robert said, I think that

we should be even more selfish today and go round to your parents to tell them of this good news. They will no doubt be over the moon as well as they too have missed out on being grandparents. Then next, I think that it is time that you met up with your best friend Freda and tell her. I am sure that you too will be sharing more and more tales again. Instead of swapping your own dresses and blouses, you can possibly try some swapping of children's clothes.

Making sure that Matthew was OK and telling him that a lunch was waiting for him back at the house, it only remained for Robert to have a quick wash and a change of clothes.

Robert handed her coat to her and in doing so, he was making sure that she was not going to back down from this visit. Annie had cut herself off from her family for a long time as well. Not wanting to be reminded of times gone by and of what could have been if not for that fateful night.

Her parents were over the moon. Her mother took her handkerchief from out of her pocket and all through their stay at the house she kept on wiping the tears of joy which kept on spilling out over her eyes.

Their next stop was at Freda's. With a slight push forwards from Robert, she put out her hand and gently knocked on the front door. As if she had been stood waiting behind the door, it opened before Annie had managed to put her hand back down by her side. They both looked at each other and as they knew each other so well, there was no reason for either of them to say anything. Please come on in, we are going to start such a

whispering in the neighbourhood if we carry on standing here like this.

Freda held the door wide open and they both walked in as though the years apart had never been. I think that you must have some wonderful news. I can tell by the look on your faces. Dare I guess? Freda patted the seat next to her on the settee.

Well yes. But of course you know that we can never have a child of our own, but we have just had the letter to say that we have been successful in being given the chance to adopt. We can go and get the little boy next week. As you have been such a great friend of mine and it was only because I hid myself away that we grew apart, we had to come and tell you our news.

Annie had been trying to put such a brave face on things, that this mask was now starting to fall and soon the tears began to course down her cheeks. She held out her arms to both Freda and Robert and in doing so their friendship was once again sealed.

Some hours later and with promises that they would keep in touch, Annie and Robert made their way back to the farm. It would soon be time to bring the cows in for milking. There would also be hundreds of other little jobs to do, as they had been away form most of the day. But there again, they now had Matthew and were sure that some of these jobs would already have been done.

As the months wore on Annie bloomed with her new responsibility, the child which they had so much wanted was called Martin. He was a happy smiling little boy, always

making laughing noises from his playpen. Her energy also seemed endless. Up at dawn with her husband, she also shared some of the workload with him and in doing so they grew closer than they had ever thought they would. One evening she said that she now felt that they were at long last a family. Holding Robert close that night in bed, he tenderly made love to her. I wish that we could have another child. Maybe a little girl. Have you thought of this? Robert leaned over her and gently moved the lock of hair which had fallen down over her cheek.

Do you think that we would be able to manage? I know that the prices have fallen at the market and that the cattle have not fetched as much as last year.

I'm sure that we can. It may mean that I sell the untended field at the far end, but that could be invested and we could use the interest that this would gain. What about it, shall we go to the agency again, they did say that if we ever thought about adoption again, then we would be looked at favourably, as we already have a child. Robert seemed more eager that Annie, but there again this was another Robert that she was just beginning to see.

This time the process was not so bad. They took Martin with them, and their assessment officer Ruth, looked at the happy little child and said, just look at those rosy red cheeks, your farm air must be doing him good. I think that he would like a little sister. So let me see what I can do. I will be in touch as soon as I have some news for you. Goodbye little Martin. And waving his chubby little hand about, they set off back home. But before they did, they called in on Freda.

I must really learn how to drive. It has been weeks since I saw you and just look at him. Just how he has grown. They never stop you know and before long he will be wearing Robert's trousers. Take my word for it. They sat and chatted for a while, only stopping to take a sip from the lovely hot tea and to sample the freshly baked scones. They are the best thing that I can make. Dan has bought me more cookery books than you can think of. But all to no avail. Everything that I try turns out like a block of concrete. Never mind though, the birds love my cooking, especially when I have left it to soak in water to soften it up.

They all laughed at the thought of tiny sparrows pecking away and chipping more off their beaks than off the food. Well we all can't be perfect. You must make up for it with all your embroidery. You still do embroidery?

Oh yes. The village fete is always well and truly stocked up with napkins, doilies and handkerchiefs which they can sell on the stalls. Do you remember that awful material that Walker's brought in for the jackets we were making. It brought you out in that nasty rash. As soon as Freda said this, she wished that she could take it back. The far away glazed look came into Annie's eyes and they knew that she was thinking of another.

Well I think that we had better be getting off home. Martin here will be wanting his dinner and all hell will be let loose if he doesn't get it.

During the journey back, Annie remained quiet. But on entering the farmyard she smiled

brightly over to Robert and squeezed his arm. I'm OK, honestly. Just a silly little moment, but all is now well again. Come along, let us get inside and get the stove on. There is a chill in the air and I don't want you catching a chill. And that goes for you as well Robert. No loitering in the cow shed after the milking, come inside and we will have hot chocolate before bed.

Matthew came to see them the next day to say that he was going to be going to college full time and that he wouldn't be able to stay with them much longer. He was feeling quite bad about this, because they had given him have the run of the farm. Trusting him to be left alone. Don't you be silly. Education is something that you must have if you are to the qualifications to land a better job. Robert was sorry that he would have to go, but there would be an opening for him back here if he should ever want it. They would work out new rotas and if necessary take on someone part time.

11

Over the next few years, time passed by quickly. The children grew and schools had to be found for them. Who would have thought that their lives would change so much in so short a space of time.

But now Christmas was almost upon them. They were now the perfect family, one boy, one girl and they had even bought a dog. Not a working dog this time, but one for the children. But like the children the tiny little puppy was growing and getting to be quite big, but a very big softy. Choosing presents to go under the tree they decided to take a

break and they went into town early and would spend the day there, taking in lunch and maybe the evening meal as well. Burt and his wife Lily from the neighbouring farm, would be getting their day out as well. Robert was going to look after their farm for them on the following weekend. Things had worked out very well for both of these families. Taking turns at working on each others place, was good for them.

As they returned to the farm, the fields were just getting the first peppering of snow. Bright white flakes were falling and making the dark earth seem even darker. Unpacking the presents later that evening when the two children had been put to bed, Robert pulled Annie into his arms and as ever he kissed her tenderly. Their romance had steadily grown and now they were so close they were like siamese twins, their arms and legs entwined as they made love in front of the open fire. The delicate flickering from the flames from the fire, fueled the intensity of their love. Later when the fire seemed to be going down, he looked into her eyes and quietly whispered to her maybe it is time for us to go up to bed ourselves and maybe, this he left unsaid, but the look in his eyes told her what he wanted to say.

In the morning Annie rose even earlier. She knew that their clothes were still scattered about the living room and although no one would be calling on them, she felt a little embarrassed about them just lying there, like empty seashells on the beach. Moving quietly so as not to wake Robert up, she tiptoed out of the bedroom. After clearing their discarded clothes up, she went to prepare their breakfasts. As she waited for the kettle to boil she set the table, but then she had another idea. Maybe they could try to have their own breakfast in bed, without the children clambering for attention. They wouldn't be up

for a little while yet, so the two of them would have plenty of time left on their own. She felt quite naughty about this, like hiding something from your parents when you were young.

Taking a small tray upstairs, she placed this on the bed side table and gently nudging Robert awake she handed to him his cup of tea. As their eyes met, there were words which needn't be said as the look told them everything. He placed his cup down and pulled her to him. Maybe after all this time she had been wrong. Maybe he was the one which she did truly love.

Christmas day arrived bringing with it even more snow. Their home was well stocked with food and with the cows safely settled in the cowshed, they would be guaranteed sufficient milk. The Christmas tree was laden with a variety of treats and all the presents were laid out under the lowest branches. Bright baubles glistened as the sun streaming through the window hit upon them. After they had had an early lunch, which today would be their main meal, as afterwards they would no doubt be catching bites to eat all day long. The snow had started to fall again, but heavier this time, they hoped that the weather would clear up a little as they were expecting to have many visitors that day and the many pies, sandwiches and desserts would be devoured by all. There wasn't a great deal which stopped the locals from visiting their neighbours homes. Most still kept a horse or two which could pull a cart along to carry all their family in.

By now the children were getting excited, they wanted to open their presents. Santa has left them for us, hasn't he? Martin asked. Looking up at her with his large dark eyes the

colour of melted chocolate. Of course he has been and all of the packages are just waiting for little fingers to open them. Come along let us all see what is inside of them.

She felt quite excited even though she already knew what they contained. But the look on the faces as the two children busily opened parcel after parcel and the gleeful squeals of delight when each gift was seen for the first time, brought happy tears to form in Annie's eyes. She quickly brushed these aside so as not to spoil the happiness of her children.

This Christmas was followed by many many more. Each one appearing to be more happier and more exciting than the previous Christmas. But as the years passed by, so did the youthfulness of both the children and their own advancing years. Instead of the sounds of oh mummy or oh daddy, the words were now being spoken by their grandchildren. Of which both their children had given them plenty of. As she herself had once wanted many children of her own, she was now surrounded by many feet trampling through the farmhouse.

Part Two

The Meeting

The Meeting

But today, Annie's thoughts had turned down another avenue. This one had opened up because of the memory of her late husband. A couple of years before his death they had decided to sell the farm, lock, stock and barrel and to move into the town. They were both getting older and wanted to be sure that they were in easier reach of the doctors, especially as Robert had not be in good health for several years. They had bought themselves a three storey house overlooking the sea. The sounds of the water ebbing to and fro gave them a feeling of tranquility and peacefulness for their advancing years. If they were woken up during the night, just listening to the sounds of the sea lapping against the sandy shore, was enough to be lulled back into peaceful slumber.

Again as Annie gazed out over the sea she found herself staring down at someone who seemed very familiar to her. She couldn't believe her eyes. She quickly snatched up her door keys, wrapped her warm coat around her and stepped out of the front door. Making sure that there was no traffic coming down the main street, she crossed over to the sea front. With rapid footsteps she approached the familiar man. Excuse me, but I saw you from my window and you looked so familiar to me that I have had to come to speak to you to really find out who I think you are.

He turned towards her. Even though I cannot see your face, I would know that voice

even if we were surrounded by many other voices. Annie, my true love. I can tell by the air around us that I have taken you by surprise. But please do not fear, I have not come here today to frighten you, but perhaps we could go somewhere a little more private and quiet to talk, maybe?

Yes, but of course. I only live across the road from here, we can sit and talk for as long as we like. But I cannot get over seeing you like this. At first I thought that I must be dreaming. Then of course I realised that it was daytime and that you had to be real. Now, I think that we should talk. Please would you care to come with me? Annie felt quite calm outwardly, but inside her she was in turmoil.

May I take you arm, it helps to guide me immensely when I am in a strange town. Although I should know the lay of the land around here, saying this he smiled at her.

Annie gently took his arm and threaded it through hers and guided him across the road back to her home. Once inside she quickly made tea and joined him in the lounge. He seemed to her to look a little uncomfortable, perhaps it was because the surroundings were strange to him. She soon put him at ease as she told him about the town and how that very little had changed over the years. The main thing which was new was the pavilion, which had been built along the sea front only two years back. It had been the councils decision to try and bring more younger families to the town for holidays. During the daytime it held games for the young children and then in the evenings they had various entertainment programmes, from amateur dramatics to disco nights. Finally their talk turned to the night when he and several of his squadron hadn't returned from the

midnight flight over to France. William began to tell her of that dreadful night.

Slowly at first he describe how they had parachuted in and landed exactly as they had planned back in the barracks, but it was as they had met with their contacts that they came under attack. Many of the men ran back to the shore in the hopes that the boats had managed to get close enough to pick them up. Like a few of his men he was amongst those who got wounded, but he managed crawl into one of the many sand dunes and in great pain from the wound in his leg and a numbness which was by then gathering in his face, he covered himself up with the sand. He prayed that he would not be found. Many stories had been told of those who had become prisoners of war and of the treatment which was given out to those men who were found stranded.

Next morning I was woken by something scrabbling away at the sand. Not daring to breath in case it gave me away, I tried to hold my breath as long as I could. But with only a thin covering I was soon discovered. At first I was blinded by the light which seemed to bear down on me with such intensity, then as if a switch had been flicked the light went out and I was left in a blurred darkness. A voice came to me through this darkness, it was a voice which I had only heard on the telephone back at the headquarters. But I didn't want to give anything away, so I pretended that I couldn't understand what it was they were saying, giving only my name rank and number as we had been trained to do. I must have drifted off, as the next thing that I remember was being carried along on some sort of stretcher. I couldn't get used to the darkness which seemed to be a constant

companion. William broke off from telling his story. A haunted look was now on his face. Can I please have another drink, this is something which I have not told to anyone for a long time and I am afraid that the recollections of those days still touch me very badly.

Annie was saddened by his look. If this is too hard for you to tell, please do not go on. Even though I truly would like to know where and what you have been doing all these years, I cannot tell you how much it pains me to see the hurt which stretches across your face.

My dear thoughtful Annie. You haven't changed, I can tell by the sweetness of your voice. Just listening to you makes my heart leap with happiness. How I have longed to just hear you and to touch your hand. But what you must have thought all those years ago and the hurt that my disappearance must have caused you. I cannot even think of that without my heart breaking just a little more. But I must tell you of my years away from here. In the hope that in the telling of this, that you can try to forgive me for not returning to you. William took a deep breath before continuing.

After several days of drifting in and out of consciousness I finally awoke. I was now even more confused about where I was. But I desperately needed a drink and after managing to call out, I then heard that familiar voice. But this time I knew that it was one of the contacts we had been sent over to meet. Her name was Collette and she was a

member of the resistance. She told me that the wound had been more serious than what I had originally thought. It had become infected and the original numbness which I had felt in my face had been because the bullet had hit a nerve. They had been able to remove the bullet but the nerve had been permanently damaged. This was the reason why I couldn't see. I had been blinded. Something which was very difficult for me to come to terms with at first. As you know one of my past-times had been painting, but now this was not going to be possible for me to do again. I felt bitter. Why me, I wanted to shout aloud. My next thought was that I would never see your smiling face again and from what I started to find out over the next few weeks I then wondered whether you would even want to see me. My only way of seeing was to use my hands. I wanted to regain some of my independence and I started by washing and shaving myself again. I was not at first very successful with this as I kept cutting myself. But taking it slowly I soon got use to navigating about my face. It was then that I noticed that my left side drooped quite a bit and that of my left eye as well. What as sight I must looked, so I then decided that I would stop shaving and grow a beard to hide the ugliness. Shame on me, there were many many more people out there in much more degrees of war torn injuries than mine. Another reminder was time, this meant very little to me as well. Months passed me by as I wallowed in my own self pity. It was now well over a year that I had been missing, probably presumed dead, but I had in fact gone awol. But I was not in a hurry to be found, and I didn't care one way or another what anybody thought. The war was now over, but for me it would never be. The war had taken so much away from me, your love for me was the main one. But I couldn't return back to England.

After saying all this William bowed his head, he didn't want Annie to see that what he

was now telling her had made him ashamed of being so selfish, when there had been others who undoubtedly had been in similar situations and had been able to come to terms and to deal with them. Please William look at me. Don't ever think that I am thinking of you in any other way than that I still care for you. There had been a time when I thought that you had taken an easy way out of becoming my husband. But I knew you too well for that. So there was only one other explanation, and it was one which my mind desperately wanted to discard. I will say that it did take me a long very long time to come to terms with and sometimes when I think of Robert, my late husband, I now realise that I must have put him through hell with my constant changes in moods. Because I did at one time think that I should become a recluse. Now that I am saying this I know that I was being unkind to myself and to the memory of how we had once loved each other.

Annie let out a sigh. She leant forwards and placed a tender kiss on his cheek. Maybe it would be a good idea for us to start afresh tomorrow in telling each other of what we have done over these many years apart. Tonight we are both getting tired, we are both not as young as we once were. And tomorrow we will not be afraid as we have been today. Would you care to call here again in the morning or maybe I can call for you at your hotel? Annie asked.

Having said that he would be grateful if she would come for him, he left her standing on her doorstep and set off to walk the short distance back to his hotel. He wanted a little fresh air, he had the feeling of being swallowed up by the darkness, just like he had first felt when he knew that he had lost his sight. He hoped that the cool breeze would help

him to clear his mind and help him to relax before he retired to his room for the night.

They both knew that what had transpired this day would give them both many hours to think about.

As daylight came pouring through the curtains, if was followed by a gentle breeze from the partly opened window. Annie felt that this was a day that was sure to bring more surprises but also a day that would be full of memories, some good and some bad, from both of their pasts and now that they had once again become friends, she hoped that it would be full of future promises of joy.

After a quick shower she dressed in a pair of casual trousers, which she topped by a deep blue coloured blouse, which set off the blue of her eyes, she was then ready to go and meet with William. Making good time to the hotel she was just parking the car when she saw William standing on the steps of the hotel. She decided to go straight up to the steps and after saying good morning and letting him take her arm, she led him to the open car door.

It is such a very refreshing morning. My mind is so full of everything which I want to tell you, that it feels as though it is going to burst. Does that sound silly to you my dear? William looked over towards the driver's seat where Annie was seated.

No it doesn't. This morning there was a breeze which was blowing in through my open window and I could feel myself becoming awash with all my thoughts and emotions.

Last night there were many thoughts flitting here and there in my head which gave a feeling of being trapped, but that was because we were both so afraid of what we were thinking of each other. Today all that will be changed. Now that Annie had become used to seeing him again she took their friendship a step further and kissed him tenderly on his cheek. Smiling she set off driving them back to her house and to the happy feeling of spending the day with him.

The morning passed by quickly and as they sat around her dining table slowly eating the lunch that she had prepared, their talk continued about all that had happened. William continued, as I said Collette had taken care of me for many weeks and I grew to depend on her. I still had some of my eyesight at first, but as my body regained its strength, my sight began to fade, until one morning when I awoke, it was to the perpetual darkness that I now take for granted. Collette's home was on a vineyard. It was the home of her late parents and she had stayed on because of the vines. She knew which of the grapes were the best for all of the wines,which were also made and sold on to the local people. The vineyard is still going today, but now their wines are shipped to various countries and are quite well known for the distinctive flavour of the area. One of the wines, a ruby red with a seductive damson taste has now been given an award. I think it was partly because of the vineyard as well, that also played a part on my not returning. In the morning air a myriad of smells came to me. I had always been good at distinguishing smells, but this had grown more acute after my sight had gone. Now I could smell the freshly turned

land, which on a damp morning took on the smell from an underground chamber, which seemed to cleanse your mind, like raindrops on dry leaves. William held out his hand to her and as she placed hers he closed his other hand around it. I can picture your face, bright lively eyes shining from your radiant face. This image of you makes me feel young and in need of excitement. Do you think that we are too old for such ideas as this? William asked her.

I have the feeling that we will never be too old to take this opportunity which has been given to us. I say that we should take advantage of every moment that we have. There have been too many years apart to think of what we may not get. I hope that you are going to be staying here. I could even help you find a flat, there are so many these days, because many of the larger houses have been converted into self contained apartments. The upkeep of the large houses became too much for many of the owners, that they have been sold off to management companies willing to transform the properties, and at the same time the companies can make a lot of money out of renting them. Annie hoped that he would agree to this, but there again did he really want to stay here she wondered.

That sounds like a very good idea. I can tell that some things have changed here. The repairs that some of the guys did on the church, have they been able to live up to the many years of weather changes?

Annie nodded her head and said, they did up until about three years ago when we had one almighty storm one evening that tore up the high street and stripped off many on the roofs in its path as it burst on by. The church took a battering, but it was the roof once

again, that caught the worst of it. This time they had to call in the roofers, which was very costly. But like many things, the locals turned out and held dances, tea afternoons and sponsored runs and generated a lot of the money to pay for the repairs in this way. The church itself said that as the funds were low, the repairs would have to wait. Money was needed for something else. But we never found out what the something else was. I think that it was their way of getting out of signing a cheque. Not a very Christian thing to say, but many of us know that it is the truth. The church has taken a drop in the amount of people who attended these day. But I believe that there will always be some families who will be true to the faith of the church

There was a pleasant quietness for some time. Both of them were engaged in their own memories of that other time. William gave a nervous cough and said, I have something to tell you and I hope that you are not going to be angry with me and also with the person I am now going to mention. She couldn't tell by the look on William's face whether it was something she did want to hear. But he carried on, I am afraid that I have not been completely honest with you. For over a year now I have been in contact with Freda. I asked her to keep our correspondence a secret from you. I wanted to be the first to actually see you, that is feel your closeness to me. She told me only a little about you and the way your life had turned out, because there again I wanted to hear everything from you first hand. I did at one point want her to warn you that I was going to come over, but there I go again, I wanted to be sure in my own mind that what I was proposing to do was something which would not hurt you, as you had already been hurt badly by me once before.

Annie's whole body had become tense. Freda had never given any clue as to that she had known about William and where he was. Her mouth and lips felt dry, she needed a drink. Excusing herself, she went to the drinks cabinet, even though the hour was still early, she poured herself a generous amount of whisky and on second thoughts, she then carefully poured William one too. This was obviously something which was as painful to him as it was to her. William, I don't know what to say, other than that I am very glad that you did decide to come to me first. My initial reaction to this news was that I wanted to close my ears and to blank out what you were saying. But then, we have missed so much of what could, or could not have been, with our years apart. Let us now start to enjoy what we can now do.

You don't know how happy you have just made me. Oh my darling, how I have wanted to hold you, to kiss your soft lips and to hear your gay laughter. Do you know, I've just had a thought. There used to be a restaurant which was quite expensive, and I always said to myself, one day I will take Annie there, and you know what, tonight I am going to do just that. He leaned over and took old of her face, and ever so tenderly kissed her.

Although many years had gone by, she still felt the same to him, young and full of energy. But he must also remind himself that they were not the same two people of that long ago time, they had both lived different lives and in different countries.

After saying that he would make the booking at the restaurant, he said goodbye to her and made his way back up the high street. The town seemed to be bustling with activity and striding out as if he had lived here all his life, he counted his footsteps so that he knew where his turnings were. He had learnt to do this from the beginning of him going blind.

He had been given a guide dog, Sheba, who had been his eyes for over 13 years, but like him she had grown older and now she herself had become a victim as her eyes had now dimmed, so now she had become his companion, mainly sitting by his feet and giving him a feeling of reassurance that he was not alone, that someone was beside him if he did have an accident. He had put in for a new dog, but there was a long waiting list, but he was not in a hurry. Time for him had now slowed down and with all the things that he was now planning to do, a new dog was not a priority, there were many more people out there who's needs were greater than his.

But now his footsteps had become more sure of the ground he was walking on. He strode out with a purpose, making his way to the well remember restaurant. As he walked along the cobbled street, he thought back to another time when he had taken Annie to a restaurant. It had been for her birthday. He had been able to book a table and they had had a wonderful meal and the manager had made a special cake for her. William arrived at the restaurant and asked if they had a table free for that evening. Unfortunately they were fully booked and so William made a reservation for the following evening. He asked for a special table for them, somewhere a little out of the way of other diners. After saying goodbye he made his way back to the hotel. It was only a very short distance and the refreshing air gave him a feeling of gladness that he had finally chosen to make to the journey back here and to confront all his old fears of what Annie had thought of his disappearance.

The hotel he was staying in had been very good to him and had volunteered the services of one of the chambermaids, she would look after his faithful dog when he wasn't in they had told him. Of course he had made sure that both his cherished hound and the young girl took to each other, the last thing that he wanted was to be given any cause that would mean him loosing Sheba. After enquiring at the reception desk if all had been OK with Sheba, but just before he did leave the reception desk, he asked to have a call to be put through to Annie where he let her know that a table had been booked for the next evening. He then took the lift up to the 4th floor and after walking passed three other rooms he opened the door to his room. He was greeted immediately by the sound of thumping from the wagging tail. Well hello there Sheba, I hope that you have been having a good day. I am full of news for you, but first, let me make sure that we are both refreshed with drinks and a treat for you. William busied himself for a short while and once he was satisfied that Sheba was comfortable, her arthritis was getting bad these days. He then started to tell her all about Annie. He had never felt foolish when he was talking to his dog, she was after all his eyes and ears to watch and listen out for dangers from the traffic. But she was also his companion.

He felt her head snuggle down onto his feet and he continued on. I can tell that Annie will love you instantly, because I know now that without a doubt that the two of us, let me rephrase that, the three of us are going to be together for as long as we have left. He reached down and tickled Sheba behind her ear and said, I think we both deserve an early night and then tomorrow we shall both be ready to meet up and talk about our future. Before long he felt his eyelids drooping but he had very little resistance to the encroaching sleep which soon took him over. Hours later he awoke with a stiff neck and

a chill around his shoulders. Feeling down towards the carpet he sought out the familiar form of his dog, she too had fallen asleep at his feet, but as soon as she realised that he was awake she stood and stretched out her legs and caught on to his sleeve to show him the way to the bathroom. You needn't worry yourself, I can easily find my way around in here. Go on back to sleep as we shall be up in next to no time. I can tell that the stars are starting to fade, to bring in the morning light.

Part Three

William's Tale

William's Tale

As both Sheba and William set out early the next morning on his way to Annie's house, he started to feel slightly nervous, it was going to take quite some time in telling all that had gone on for the last 50 years. Even thinking of the length of that time made him feel quite old. They had both been young and innocent when they had first met. He could still see her as she was then. She had bright shining blue eyes and golden hair which caught the light from the sun and made you think of wheat fields blowing gently in the breeze. He remembered how she danced and the tinkling of her laughter, like wind chimes tinkling as they were being blown. He could also imagine what sorrow he must have caused her when he didn't return from that fateful landing on the shores of France. William's mind carried on thinking in this way and soon he was totally immersed with those thoughts.

His squadron had been called in for their final briefing. The commanding officer spoke quietly to the men who were gathered around. You are all now about to undertake a mission in carrying over to France documents which are of vital importance to winning this war. It will be an extremely dangerous mission, and we pray to God that you will all return safely, but in war we cannot rely only upon our prayers but on our strength as a

whole unit. Once you have handed over the documents, you will have only a few minutes in which to turn yourselves around and head off back down towards the waters edge where waiting to bring you back will be a flotilla of small boats. The men in these boats are all volunteers who will be risking their own lives in the knowledge that their children and the future of grandchildren will have a country which will be a safer place to live in. The commander finished his briefing and saluted all of the men who were setting out on a mission which could be fraught with danger.

William gathered his group around him and went through the final details. He too knew that this was not going to be an easy mission. Looking around the field tracking room at the other men and women who would be following their flight paths and the landings, he hoped with all his heart that he would be back here soon. This was one flight which he had a strange feeling that he wouldn't be seeing some of these familiar faces again.

William's mind jumped ahead again. Only this time it was of memories of him hearing his team talk about football and going to the Friday night dances, but he was wrong. What he did hear were voices talking in a strange language. As he drifted in and out of consciousness, he had a feeling of being scared of moving in case it drew attention to himself.

He had no idea of how long he had been in this condition, but when he woke up and heard those foreign voices talking, his immediate fear was that he had been caught by the

enemy. He wasn't strong enough to fight off the heavy burden which was keeping him motionless, he soon felt himself drifting once more back down into a darkness that opened up its arms to take him in and to rock him back to sleep. Sleep he thought, that would be the best thing, they wouldn't be able to do anything to him if he was still unconscious. The next time he awoke, he felt his head being bathed with a cool soothing cloth and to the sound of a young woman singing softly. He dared himself to open up his eyes, but all that he could see was a blurred image. He licked at his dry lips and in doing so he brought attention to himself that he was now waking.

Ah monsieur, we thought that you would never regain consciousness. Please, let me give you a drink, slowly now, we don't want you to over do it. My name is Collette, I was with the men who you had come over here to meet with. Please take things slowly now, you have been drifting in and out of consciousness for over two weeks now, and I know that this is going to be the hardest time of all for you. She held the cup of cool water to his lips again and when she knew that he had had enough, she gently let his head rest back upon the soft pillows.

As he rested, he once again tried to focus his eyes onto something, but his vision remained the same. With a deep breath he plucked up his courage to speak. Mademoiselle, can you tell me if many more of my group were picked up, either by some of your people or by the enemy? I feel that I may have let them down very badly, bringing them into this ambush. He paused to catch his breath, with not speaking for quite a long time, he found that his throat was rasping, but he managed to ask Collette for another sip of the cool water.

After making sure that he had taken a few more sips, Collette replied. I think that I should let my brother Marcel tell you all that we know. I will go an fetch him and while he is bringing you up to date with all the news that we have, I will get you something to eat. A little soup perhaps and some fresh bread. Now rest again, you need time to get used to everything here. And so Collette left him while she went in search of her brother and to prepare the small meal for William.

Time, William thought to himself, that was something else which he felt sure that he would have plenty of for the moment. That was if he wasn't found. If he was found, what would happen to these people. They were the ones who had risked their lives many times for the sake of others. They were simply carrying out their own orders, as they battled with the enemy. Being with the resistance meant they were on their guard at all times. He noticed quickly that his hearing appeared to be much clearer, this was to be something which he would have to rely on for the rest of his life. Marcel arrived at his bedside. He had know Marcel for some time now, as they had communicated on many occasions before this latest arrival. As Marcel, sat down by him, he listened without asking any questions. Marcel related how on the evening that he had landed on the shores, how they had all been taken by surprise. For several days before the meeting, Marcel and his group had been round the town asking questions at the local bread shop and at the post office. A watch was put on regarding the movement of the German soldiers, who had recently taken up residence in the main hotel in the square. They had already started to punish some of the local men, for no reason other than that they had looked at the German soldiers. The had no care, they took to beating the men in

front of young children, so as to make sure that the women would do as they were told to. Being frightened was something that the Germans loved to see. Marcel continued with the events leading up to their arrival. We set up early along the sand dunes and waited for the hour that you would land. It was a good night, very dark, with big curling black clouds. Just the right sort of cover that you needed to take up your flight and to parachute down in. The moon flitted in and out of the clouds, but with little effect to the blackness of the night. We had heard the drone of the aircraft's engines, but we saw nothing of you coming down. Then all of a sudden gunfire rang out all around us. I am sorry to say that some of our men did take off. People were running all over, and in the confusion some ran into each other. Then we saw you and how you were all trying to get free of your chutes. It was the worst that we had seen. Your men from the boats had also started to come ashore in the hopes of rescuing some of you. My other brother Alain ran down to the waters edge and in the brightness of a volley of shots I saw his body arch backwards before he sank down to his knees and to his death. You were only a few metres in front of me. I swallowed hard and blinked back my tears of what I had just seen and I reached forwards for you.

Marcel helped himself to a glass of water. The telling of that dreadful night had brought back the sadness of loosing his youngest brother. We do not know for sure how many people lost their lives that night, but I can only guess that it was in the hundreds. The resistance lost 35 men and women alone in that one night. I can also tell you that we have since found out who had been the spy amongst us. It was a young man, new to our group and to the town. He had given to us a reference from one of our neighbouring villages and from a man who himself was highly thought of. So of course we were always eager

to accept new recruits. But he had given himself over to greed, what could be his if he only let the Germans know of any landings being planned. He had been told that a great deal of money could be coming his way, if only he would let them know of any plots of invasion by the English and of the aid that the resistance groups gave. Of course once they knew of your coming, he was taken away and put into hiding. We have also heard that he has since been killed by the Germans, having fitted into their plans for that time he was then considered to be of too high a risk to them and therefore he needed to be silenced. A cruel fate for him, but there again his is only one more for the suffering of all that he had been a witness to.

There was a silence for a little while, both of them were thinking of how families on both sides of the waters had lost their loved ones. As Collette has told you, you have been here for a little over two weeks and in that time many things have changed. We are being watched constantly and some of us are afraid to speak out about that night in case we give ourselves away to another one who has changed their allegiance. I believe from what I have been told, that your French is good, would you like me to speak to you in French? Very good then, as least if someone was to call upon us they would only overhear us speaking in our native tongue.

Marcel continued on with the other events from that evening. We saw that the men from the boats could only manage to rescue a mere dozen or so men before they were finally driven back towards the water and to the safety of their boats. Steering away from the shores as fast as they could get their crafts to go. The Germans also ceased their firing and withdrew themselves as they couldn't see any further movements on the beach. As

quietly as I could I first dragged you and then carried you back here and to safety. I hope that we can one day soon arrange to have you re-united with what remains of your unit back home. Until then and I can also speak for my sister with regard to this, you are very welcome here. The package which you were carrying, we also managed to save. In it was the information that we needed relating to how many more of the German army units that are on their way here. This has been sent over to our headquarters and the interception of these units are now, as we speak, being put into force. I can see that all of this talk is tiring you. We will continue tomorrow, so until then I bid you a good night. Sleep well and wake rested.

Marcel left him alone with his thoughts. But he was soon to be joined by Collette with the light meal that she had made for him. Slowly he managed to eat some of the soup. It tasted wonderful to him. The slight salty taste of the fish soup reminded him of the restaurant that he had loved to go to back home. He couldn't remember having eaten during the last couple of weeks, but he must have done, else he would not have been feeling as strong as he did. His strength was more in his mind than in his body. As his body still felt quite weak with only lying in the bed.

Soon after he had eaten, William did sleep again, but now his dreams were very vivid. He saw his men going down, the area awash with the light from the gunfire. His best friend fell right in front of him and there was nothing that he could do to stop the horror going on all around him. He shouted for help, but none came. He seemed to be running and running, but never reaching the hand that he saw being held out to him. As he awoke he felt his head once again being bathed with refreshing cool water and that his right hand

was being held by another, but much smaller hand. He opened his eyes, and there again his vision was blurred. Don't rush things, everything will eventually start to come back. Until then, use whatever help that I can give you. Collette's voice was something that gave him reassurance. There was another voice that he longed to hear. Dear Annie, he wondered what she had been told. It was a little while yet before the wedding. He prayed that he would be home. As he drifted off again, her face became so real and so close to him, that he wanted to place a tender kiss upon her soft full lips.

The next time that he woke, he knew that he was feeling much better and stronger. The lightness from him had gone and in its place a feeling of wanting to do something, other that just lying there. He made himself sit up, feeling a little dizzy at first. Soon though he began to scan the room he could just make out slight shapes. It wasn't a large room, to his right was a small bedside table and further along a set of drawers, tall and strong looking. Next came the door, which he could just make out that it was open a little. Along the next wall was another piece of furniture, perhaps a wardrobe, all made from the same strong wood. At one time he could have named many pieces of wood, oak, teak, mahogany. But at the moment this was another thing that was lost to him. He then made out the shape of the window, a curtain billowing in the breeze and he heard the cry of seagulls as they swooped up and down in the sky. He noticed as well that his sense of smell had come back to him. This was extremely puzzling as he recalled that during one of his bouts of boxing back at the barracks, his nose was one night given quite a punch, which had left him without a sense of smell. Even if an offensive piece of bad meat had

been placed right under his nose, he still couldn't smell it.

The breeze felt good, so he decided to be even braver and made the biggest attempt to get himself up and out of the bed. With arms held out in front of him and taking small, shaky steps, he headed towards the window. The chair must have been put there on purpose, as it was the most welcoming thing just to sit himself back down and to rest after having got himself this far. I am so out of condition, he said to himself. Now that I have made it this far, next I must see if I cannot get back to my own shores and next into the arms of Annie.

As he rested his head against the window frame he heard footsteps approaching his room. He then heard the intake of breath as the person who entered and saw that he wasn't in his bed. Good morning William, you took me by surprise, but it is very good to see that you have decided on your own that it is time for you to start living again. My brother has given some of his clothes to me, as you are almost the same size. Do you think you are up to trying them on and maybe we could go downstairs and you can sit outside in the garden and take in some of the late autumn sunshine?

It felt good to hear Collette's voice. It had such a soothing tone, that you were lulled by it. That is the best suggestion that I have heard in many a long time. Yes, I will take you up on this offer. But I feel that I may need your assistance in getting dressed, as I cannot see button holes, so I would no doubt have my shirt on upside down. Saying this, he let out a small cry of laughter. Something that he hadn't done in a long time. Holding on to Collette's arm he made his way back to the bed and sat down again. Soon

enough he was dressed and on his way through the kitchen and out into the garden. A wooden table with seats were just a little way from the doorway. After settling William in one of the seats, Collette said that she would go and get his breakfast. That sounds wonderful. The air is already starting to work on my appetite. I may just eat and eat until I burst.

With a friendly touch on her arm, he let her go. Later as he sat there drinking the last of his coffee, he heard Marcel return and from the conversation which was now taking place, he knew that he had brought bad news. Not more he said to himself. William, we must get you away from here, by this evening at the very latest. The German's have heard that they are going to be hit soon and they are determined to find all, or any of the people who helped you get the documents over here. We have an uncle who has a vineyard in northern France and we know that there is no risk whatsoever in that area. Everyone there is safe. So can you be, along with Collette. I cannot leave here as my wife is about to have our child any day now and the travelling would not be good for her. Do you think that you will be able to go? Collette is very worried that after all our efforts in getting you well again, that you will be taken away from here by the Germans if they were to find you here.

Have no fear of that. After the sunshine that I have had today, I feel quite refreshed. Although I am quite aware that I am far from being my normal self. That may only come back to me with time. William was quite bold in saying this. Much more bolder that what his inner feelings were saying.

OK then, let us see about setting you up with some clothes in preparation of the journey. Collette has already made a start. She has set up food for a couple of days. You will have to travel slowly so as not to draw attention to yourselves. The German's have many spies about and one cannot take enough precautions.

And so a little over an hour later, Collette and William said their goodbyes to Marcel. William couldn't thank Marcel enough for all the trouble he was going to. But that was the way of the people who were in the resistance. I hope to see you again very soon and to see your new child. It goes without saying, please be careful yourself and my thoughts will be of you always. William shook Marcel's hand warmly and finally they set off on their journey.

As they travelled they took care to keep to the small country roads, Collette told him a little of her life before the war had come. She had spent much of her time at the vineyard, her parents had both died due to phneumonia. She had survived it, but since then she had always had a weak chest and was quite susceptible to any sort of chill which sometimes the bad winters brought on. Up at the vineyard, she had grown stronger, due to the warm air which wafted over the open fields. Most of her days she spent outside, especially when it was the time for the grape picking. That was the best time of all for her. I once spent the whole day and early evening out in the fields. Many of the others had packed in the hard work of selecting the grapes and hauling them over to the tipping carts. Although I sometimes grew short of breath, the sheer delight in seeing the grapes

being gathered just urged me on. Collette's voice sounded so contented that William barely uttered a sound of recognition to what she was saying. W ate heartily at the end of the day's work. Normally wine is served at all mealtimes, but on the last day of picking, huge tables were put out and many dishes of food were prepared to thank everyone for their help in getting the harvest in. The party atmosphere normally lasted until the early hours. You could find children asleep under the tables, where they all snuggled up together to keep themselves warm, because as the evening drew on the cooler air of the night settled in around them all. At last the parents gathered up their belongings along with their children and set off back to their own homes. The following day was a day of no work, but of course they would be back to the fields the day after this, cutting everything back in readiness to start the routine all over again for the next year's planting.

William was lulled by the tone of her voice. She had such a way of speaking that you could almost be tempted that you could heard music being played. Please, tell me more of what your country is like. I was fortunate enough to have been able to travel before the war, and I remember happy times spent over here. My parents had taught French at the high school in our home town of Scarborough. So it was without a doubt that I could also speak French. When I joined the air force I was singled out straight away because of this knowledge. I undertook strenuous training to get my body fit so that I could parachute down into the most remotest of places. My mental state was also worked on. How never to give in to the enemy. Even now in my somewhat still battered body they would never get anything from me. Oh I'm so sorry for prattling on like this. You must still be remembering your own loss. Maybe one day soon, we will be able to try to move

on and begin to live again. Why had he started this. He had put a complete wet blanket on the whole atmosphere of the day. What had originally started off as happy, was now clouded over by his morbidity. Perhaps if they carried on a little in silence the tranquility of the days beginnings may once more rise up.

The sound of the car engine took over and they traveled for some time before Collette brought the car to a halt. There is nothing to worry about. We are just going to take a short break. This stretch of road goes on for many kilometres and is rarely used, so we should be safe here. Maybe we should take a little light refreshment to carry us on to our next stop. That one will be for the night. As I am sure you know any light from the headlamps would attract someone's attention to us and set them onto our tail.

They settled down to eat some of the fayre which they had brought along with them. The cheese which was made locally to them and the fresh ham. The only unfortunate thing about their meal was that the bread which had been freshly baked that morning, was now getting to be a little stodgy. Bread was something which needed to be eaten fresh. The taste of the golden baked crust which then mingled with the stark whiteness of the soft insides, made your mouth water. Not wanting to take too many risks, they ate fairly quickly and afterwards made sure that they had picked up anything which may give them away to the enemy.

Do you think that you will be able to drive for some time yet? You aren't getting too tired are you? I do feel rather bad that I cannot help you in any way. You who have been so good to me in helping me get myself together and in helping to heal my wounds.

Would you care to hear of what it is like over the water from where I have my home? There are so many questions that I have put to you. But that is something which I have noticed in myself, that although I cannot see your face, it is as though I have got to carry on and say more. William was now feeling quite stupid. Blathering on like an old maid. Maybe that is what he is going to turn into.

No William, I am feeling quite refreshed after our light meal. You mustn't put yourself down so. There are going to be plenty of days in which you can relax, regain your strength, and who knows, your sight itself may also come back. But even if it doesn't, there are going to be so many things that you will be able to do, you may not think so now, but in time many opportunities will open themselves up to you. Collette once again gave him a feeling of reassurance.

He was in a foreign country and although he knew the language it was still alien to his own native tongue. He had better not let his superiors hear him say something like that. They would have him out on his ear before he could say another word. William started to think about what Collette had just said to him, maybe she was right about other avenues which would open up for him. His interest back home had been music. A lover of the sounds of a piano, his mother had taught him from a very young age and he had mastered it quite well. There again without a doubt he had been the first one who was called upon to play at parties and at the local dance hall. His mind drifted off on another angle. What would Annie be thinking of him now. It was still early days since he had been stranded over here on these shores, but there wasn't a day which went by when he didn't think of her.

Sighing he relaxed in the quietness of the early evening. The sound of the tyres rolling over the fairly smooth road lulled him. It was a few hours later that he awoke to find that the car was now motionless. He could feel eyes looking at him. Goodness me, you really needed that sleep. I hope that you will be able to sleep during the night, as I have now stopped because of the lateness of the hour. I do not want to draw attention to us by using the headlamps. Would you like a drink, there is still some of the lemonade left, which was made yesterday, but it may be a little warm? He nodded in acceptance of the offer. Moments later a warmish glass was put into his hands. Drinking thirstily, he drained the glass in a few swallows.

Thank you. That was lovely. You have had some yourself I hope. William asked her.

Yes, just a few minutes before you woke. It is now 9.30, I think that we should try to get some rest and then as the first lightness of the morning we will make our way onwards to the vineyard. Goodnight William, sleep well, with pleasant dreams.

Goodnight Collette, and thank you again for just being you.

They both slept fitfully. But on waking they did feel refreshed and were eager to continue on with their journey. Collette told him that she had traveled this road many times over the years. Her uncle's home was a place which was visited frequently

throughout the year. Not just for the harvesting of the grapes. She told him that there had been times when after her own mother had died, she had spent more of the holiday breaks there as well. Learning how to cook and how to bake. She could always be found in the kitchen a few weeks before Christmas. Preparing everything for the week of festivities which were always held at her uncle's vineyard. We used to have so much fun. Often the children were allowed just to sleep where they were found, curled up under tables, or sitting on the bottom stair of the grand staircase. My father was quite strict and didn't think that the gaiety of all who attended these affairs was quite appropriate. But this was something that my mother had enjoyed and he had been so in love with her, that no matter what he thought, she was allowed to go ahead and enjoy herself. I was so like her, that I was then given the same privileges.

It sounds like something out of a movie the way you have told me this tale. I feel that I would be able to fit right in there. I love to hear music, mainly the tunes which you can create upon the ivory keys of the piano. My own mother had, before I was born, played the piano at the amateur dramatic society in our town. She told me once that if she hadn't fallen in love with my father, that she had aspirations of becoming a professional pianist. Along with the French which she had learnt from her grandparents, both grandparents had come from Boulogne, she had been quite talented for a young woman of her time. Once she had married my father, who had then just been taken on as French teacher at the high school in Scarborough, she had felt a little left out. But not for long, mother was and still is, quite a pushy sort of person and before a year was out, she herself had also acquired a post as the junior French teacher. This job finished as soon as I was born. Her time she told me with laughter in her voice, was well and truly taken up with looking

after me and my father.

Once more they travelled on in companionable silence when all of a sudden Collette exclaimed in a light tone, oh my goodness, I wish that you could see the sight unfolding before me. The whole landscape as far as my eyes can see are full of green and black grapes, swaying along gently in the late afternoon breeze. Soon my dear William we will be in a safe place, where you will quickly heal and become strong again.

The car coughed and spluttered and came to a sudden halt. It is a good thing that we have arrived. The supply of fuel has finally given out and I am sure that the engine will be rather worn out as well, because we have been running on air for the last few kilometres. But no fear, we shall stride out and be welcomed at our final resting place in only a few minutes.

Catching hold of her arm he let himself be guided along. The road was a little uneven in places, but the stillness of the air around him, gave him a wonderful feeling of coming home. A home that would be his for many many years to come, but this was something that he knew nothing of at that precise moment. Uncle Gerard, Collette called out. Moments later a booming voice echoed all around them, you gave me quite a surprise, my just look at you. You seem to grow more beautiful each time that I set eyes on you. But please, introduce me to your friend, I do not wish to appear rude. Welcome to you both to my home, what is mine is now yours as well to enjoy. Come let us go inside, I am still so happy to see you that I am forgetting my manners.

Saying this he then took an arm of each of the young couple and led them towards the open door. After calling out to his wife Margarite, who eagerly rushed out to greet them both, kisses and tears of joy from Margarite as she ushered them into the sitting room. Gerard then arranged for the car to be towed up and for their suitcases to be taken up to the bedrooms, they then sat down in comfortable chairs in the large sun filled sitting room.

Soon after as they sat in comfort, they told of the atrocities which had befallen them since the night of the raid when they had picked William from the beach where they had parachuted in. We couldn't take any more risks of staying and of hiding out. William had brought over the essential documents and we felt that we had to keep him safe. From all that we have heard of the tortures that the Germans were doing to the prisoners of war, we could not let this happen to him. Collette smiled over at William and held onto his hand. Confirming to him that she did care for him. His heart gave a little jump at the thought that he was perhaps falling in love with her. Could this be true. If his eyesight never came back or improved, he would never see the lights which shone from the green grey eyes which twinkled when she smiled.

Coughing to overcome a sudden nervousness William said, I thank you from the core of my heart for taking such a risk in even entertaining me for a short time, not to mention that you are allowing me to stay for a duration which non of us can say how long it will be. It is because of such friends as yourselves that we will win this dreadful war.

You can be assured of that my new found friend. And yes, it is a dangerous time and a

dangerous venture that I am putting myself and my family in. But in time we will emerge from this and be able to put some of the evils to the back of our minds. There again, we will always remember those who did not survive and of the horrors which will always remain with us. Uncle Gerard handed out glasses of wine and as Margarite came in bearing a tray of freshly baked bread and goats cheese, they sat around and talked of happier times and of the harvesting of the grapes.

That is one thing which will bring some colour to your cheeks my friend. I will set you going at picking time and in no time at all you will get stronger and some of the gauntness from your young face will fade. But for the present I think that it is time for you to retire for the night and to get a good sleep. You both must be extremely tired after all the travelling that you have done to get here.

After he had bathed and put on fresh pygama's, William lay down on the bed, upon which were fresh cotton sheets, which were scented with the smells from the vines. It was some time before William could sleep. But as he lay there in the comfort of the bed which seemed too big for him after the small cot which he had grown accustomed to at Collette's old home, he let his mind drift away to thoughts and ideas which kept on popping up in his head. The sounds of the night started to lull him, giving him a feeling of safety. The owls hooting from the nearby barns, calling to each other of the flights that they were off to for the evenings forage for fresh food. The soft bark of the family dog as it too settled down for the night. As these thoughts took over his tired brain, his eyelids became heavy and soon he too fell into a dreamless sleep.

Next morning he woke to the delightful smell of freshly baking bread. He heard voices coming from below, a family deciding on the days work to be done. He at first was a little afraid to join them, don't be silly he chided himself. They have after all taken you in and it was now up to you to show them that you can give them something back in payment of their sincere kindness.

Dressing slowly, he then made his way downstairs to the kitchen, lead by the aromatic smells coming from the homely kitchen. As he entered the room, there came a sudden silence, which was as quickly taken over again by the constant chatter of the younger children in the room.

Good morning William. We hope that you have had a good night's sleep and are ready for the first day of your new life. We have been having a small family discussion about you and we are of one belief that you are young, strong and have a great mind, which can only be put right by giving you the chance to show us of your talents. Uncle Gerard spoke without any dilly dallying over niceties. What he had gathered about William he felt sure that this was how he would welcome being thought of.

A very good morning to you all as well. You give me much more credit than how I actually feel at the present. But yes, I do want to to get myself working again. My mind has lain dormant for many weeks now, with only the horrors of that dreadful evening keeping it in a continuous flow of emotions. May I ask what you have thought that I can

be of assistance with? William smiled in the direction of Gerard.

Well as this is now very late in the year of winemaking we have to carry out the pruning the vines. This you will be able to do with the limited sight that you have. By touching the vines, this will also give you a feel of how they grow. There is also the topping up of the new wines, this is also something that can be done by feeling. Then the rest is up to you.

Sounds quite easy the way you have put it. But no doubt that there has to be a strategic way of pruning? William said.

Of course, but once we have set you off, you will be able to do this without any assistance. But now, please enjoy your breakfast. To your right a little forwards you will find a large jug of fresh orange juice and to your left coffee. Fresh croissants, toast and home made jam will be coming in soon. Enjoy, my friend.

William thought to himself, these people are not going to pamper to me. They are going to let me feel my own way around and to help myself. Which of course is the only way that I am going to learn how to do things on my own. Once breakfast was over, William put on a huge thick woolly jumper and was lead out into the fields. His partial sight limited him to see the vast rows of vines, but he knew from his past that many acres were spread out before him.

His guide for the day was Maurice, an old hand in the fields and within only a short time, William was left to pruning on his own. How time seemed to fly away, although it was back breaking at first, because he was not used to being bent over, and his thighs ached from being squatted down, but he felt that his lungs were working overtime with the fresh air and there was a newness that he could smell as each time he cut away the old dying vine so that in time new shoots would come alive. It gave him ample time as well to let his mind think of the goodness of these people. People whom he and his comrades had come over here to help. But no, he would not let himself think of that night. Not today, he was enjoying the peace which surrounded him and the smell of the soil as he trod his way down the rows of vines.

He was brought back to what he was doing, by a gentle tap on his shoulder, it was Maurice. Monsieur, it is time for lunch, please leave what you are doing and we shall take a well earned break.

Thank you, time has gone so quickly that I was sure that I had worked right through. Ah, you think that we play joke and leave you here. No my friend, but I must say that from what I can see that you have done, you must have been moving along as though there was no tomorrow. The fields will be done in next to no time at all, thanks to you.

And so for the next couple of weeks, William worked his way, along with Maurice, through the fields. The bags of discarded vines were collected by the children in the afternoons, after they had returned from their school. Nothing was left to go unused. The

dead and drying branches were used on the fires. Giving off a pleasant smell as they burnt quickly through. Their evenings were spent by pleasant chatter, the children taking up a lot of his time as they were in constant demand of fresh knowledge and to learn English. This they did in the safety of the house and not outside. They also knew that it was dangerous to tell anyone about the arrival of the male visitor. Whilst the children learnt English, at the same time his French took on a more local accent. His pronunciation of the language became stronger as more and more he spoke in French. Which was a good thing. No one knew when strangers could come up to the house and if he was caught, so would the whole of the family be. Even though the war was now at an end, there were still small bands of angry men about who were looking for anything from which they could profit.

Now that all the vines had been cut away, William was then taken into the the huge rooms which stored the vats. He was shown how to up the wines. There should not be any space left as the wines would spoil with the air. Soon he got the hang of topping up the new wines. Sampling from each of the vats and of the various tastes and textures that the wines went through. A lot of the time he was left alone. He seemed to be a natural with this process. Perhaps this was what he had been set out to do. Enough of the classrooms and of teaching. His way in life was the open air and of the beauty of making fine wines.

One evening after the family had eaten and they were all sitting comfortably out on the veranda, feeling the remaining warmth from the sunshine which they had enjoyed that day, when William was asked what had been his occupation before he had joined the

airforce. I was still at university. Studying to become a history teacher and to follow in my fathers footsteps. My father was headmaster at a school and my mother used to teach the piano to young students. But now I don't know what fate has befallen them. Their school had taken the full force of a bombing one evening. This was information which Collette had been able to find out one day, when they had been to the market in her village.

But now, my work here has shown me that there is more to my life than sitting in a classroom. I am still learning but in a more practical way. Without you all I am sure that I would have given up. I once felt that I wanted to. But was moved by the effortless and unselfish thinking of Collette first of all and then of all of you. Maybe one day I will return to England, but for now my home is here.

There followed a pleasant silence. All of them lost in their own thoughts. Without any prompting, each of the family stood and said their goodnights. As they passed by the chair in which William sat, all in turn gave him a companionable pat on his shoulder, which said more than words ever could.

As the weeks passed into months and soon another year had gone by. William had worked his way through the vineyard and the cellars. Learning each day the many practices in the ways of wine making. His ways were of touch and smell, the aromatic bouquet tantalising the sensations in his nose. He and Collette grew closer as well,

because of the nearness of their work. One humid evening as Collette walked beside him through the fields, he turned to her and held her face in his hands. His fingers traced sensual lines along her cheek and down her slender neck , coming to rest in the soft hollow of her throat, the feeling sending a cool ripple along her arms. But as she lent in towards him the coolness turned into a heat which they both knew that there would be no turning back. He pulled her down to lay amongst the grasses which had grown tall enough in which to hide them. Slowly so as not to frighten her, William made love to her gently and as she responded, their lovemaking became more urgent, both knew that they had been missing out on their growing up. The terrible war had made young people grow older before they had been able to enjoy their youth.

Much later, as the air became cooler with the darkening of the evening, William held onto her again. Whispering into her ear he asked, my dear Collette, will you become my wife? I have many times at night tried saying this to you as I lay alone in my bed. There is no going back for me now. I belong here. With you and with your family.

William waited, barely wanting to take a breath. Not knowing what the reply would be. But praying that it would be yes.

As he felt tiny kisses covering his face, he knew. Ah Collette, you will not regret this. I will make it my life to make you happy and to bring you much laughter.

During the next couple of months as the preparation of their wedding, William had a few nightmare's where he was waiting for his bride to walk down the aisle and as the bombs

rained down before him, breaking off his vision of the delight as he saw his bride to be coming towards him, then suddenly halt and disappear as the dust and debris flew straight at him. No, please God no, don't let her be taken away from me. It isn't her fault that this evil is amongst us. On waking he was drenched in a cold sweat and with his breath coming in short bursts. Today as he awoke from a dream free night, he knew that all was going to be well. After a good breakfast he went back to his room to dress for his wedding day. Maurice was to be his best man, with Uncle Gerard giving Collette away as though she was his own daughter. There was a gaiety in the home as they all prepared and as William came down the stairs once again, he sensed the happiness all around him.

The wedding and the party which followed was a very noisy and joyous affair, the garden teeming with many relations and friends from near and far came to the homestead. Neighbours had been preparing food in their own kitchens to help out and as they all danced and sang, the daytime sunshine finally settled into a star lit night. A true romantic night and one that was to be remembered for many many years to come.

After a week away on their honeymoon Collette and William returned to the vineyard and were soon settling back into their own roles around the homestead. One evening as they lay close, Collette breathed slowly and turned her face towards the face which she had so grown to love, she whispered what would you say to you becoming a papa?

Collette, my darling, that is something which I never thought that I would be. But please tell me, how long have you known? Only since this morning after I had been to see doctor Renee. He confirmed what I had known since the day we had made love. You

remember the day that we went for our walk along the stream and the scent of the harvesting cornfields was in the air, we settled down and you made love to me. It was then my love that our child to be was conceived. A child who will only know of love and happiness and nothing of the sorrows of our own young lives. Promise me that you will try to protect us from any further ugliness.

Collette's arms wrapped about his torso and he felt himself giving all of his strength to her and in feeling this she knew that he would never let her down.

10

Time went by quickly. Soon their first child, a boy was born. He was followed soon after by a delightful girl child. The two children could not be separated. Each of them cared for the other. When one child was ill, the other never strayed far away, always wanting to be near. There was a protectiveness about them that couldn't seen in any other children. During their growing up and into their teens, they remained brother and sister, but more than that they were friends. The other children at the school sometimes taunted them for being so close, but to their true friends there was nothing. Uncle Gerard had given up his work due to ill health. The dreaded arthritis which crippled his hands had made his job too difficult for him. But at 72years of age, he knew that he could leave it all to his son Maurice and to his son in law William. Both of whom were trusted, as were the many men and women in the employ around the vineyard.

The wines were now being sold far and wide. Over the channel in England, wine was

now been drunk more now, from the usual beer which was drunk in the bars. Peoples tastes had changed, especially as travel was now within the easy reach of many people. Holidays for some had been a week at their nearest seaside town, but as the air began filling up with more aeroplanes, many countries could be visited. Soon their own busy main town of Reims was also taken over by the many foreigners taking in the delights of the grand cathedral and the splendid tastes of the champagne, their local wines were bought up by the eager buyers of such fine wines, something that had been withheld from so many for so long. Riches were to be made everywhere. From the delicate laces made by the local elders, to the mouth watering chocolates and the aromatic blends of coffee. All was bought. The towns which were once poor, were now filling up with younger people with money which they wanted to spend. As William and Collette went about their own shopping, they could see and feel the vast difference from their own young beginnings. Now was the time for the young. Danger had passed by these youngsters and with it came another time of love.

Although they spent most of their time at the vineyard, it was on one of the days off that they had gone into town that William sensed a danger nearby. As they were just having an early evening meal at a restaurant that they had visited on several occasions,when Collette grasped at William's hand. A pain as sudden as anything shot through her chest. Holding onto him he felt her slowly descend towards to the floor. He followed her down to where she had come to rest and as the waiters came quickly over, there followed a voice as someone shouted for an ambulance to be called. William could feel the slackening of the hold that Collette still had on his hand. He knew that she was slowly ebbing away from him. Her breathing slowed right down, then there was no more.

She was only 56 years old. Too young to be taken away from him. They had so many more things that they wanted to do. Their two children were now grown up and had families of their own. But they were not very far away from them. In easy reach for the weekend lunches, which had continued from the day that William and Collette had arrived at vineyard. It had only been the weekend before that there had been talk of them taking a cruise. Sailing over the oceans to romantic places. The sea breezes to be blown around their faces. But this was to be no longer a dream come true for them.

Collette's funeral was filled with all the people who new and loved her. Some people were just mere acquantancies, but they had come to pay their respects to a women who had made so many smile with her own happy love of life.

11

It was a very bleak time for William, as he pondered over what he would do alone as this was the first time, since he had arrived on this land. He took her death very badly. Hardly moving away from the house, staying in the kitchen most of the time. The warmth of the fire kept the ever present chill away from him. Even on a warm day he felt a coldness. Theirs had been such a close relationship, that now there was a void. His sight also took a drastic fall. Nearly totally blind now, he was advised that it would be best for him to have a dog. This was something that he had never given a thought to. Collette had been his eyes. But she was no longer here and he did need someone.

Claudia his daughter, took it upon herself to find her dear papa the guide dog. A young labrador dog the colour of white chocolate, came to be his best friend. She soon took charge in the house. Pushing him from his usual seat beside the kitchen fire, she first took him around the fields which had once been the only place that he had walked without any guidance. Next came the short trips to the local market. Friends called out to him and once again he felt the closeness of his early years here. Now he called in at least once a week. Monsieur Rocher at the Cafe Rocher, often had small titbits for Sheba. Her tail wagged as she saw the brown paper bag being handed to her new master. But if there was a stranger about, she kept as close by as she could. Guarding as well as guiding William, he knew that he would be safe with her. Well my pet, shall we be off home to see what tempting treat there is in here for you? By the wagging of her body against his leg he knew that Sheba understood him. Once home he made himself a small pot of tea to go with the fresh bread and cheese which he had decided to have. Sitting by his side was Sheba, her dish of mutton from Monsieur Rocher by her other side, she waited patiently for William to start eating his own afternoon treat.

One evening he sat listening to a programme about British seaside resorts. His thoughts turned to the delightful town of Cromer where he had met his first love Annie. I wonder what she is doing now and if she had remained in Cromer for all these years. Well Sheba, I think that I am going to do a little investigating. How would you fancy a trip over the English channel to my old home town? I think that I will take this tapping of your tail as a yes. OK, I think that I am going to have to involve my dear daughter Claudia in this. Nothing against you, but she will have to start me off in the right place to try and track down the people who I knew many years ago. Tomorrow will be early

enough to start.

And so the tracing back to his old roots began. Over the next couple of years, with the help of his daughter, William found Annie. But once he knew where she was he started to get quite anxious as to how to go about meeting her. His next thought was to be a bit of a chicken and to seek out her friend Freda and to see what sort of approach he could make there.

Freda had also remained in the resort of Cromer and so he felt more at ease in contacting her first. Sitting down that evening, William painstaking dictated into his recorder a letter to Freda.

After all these years, this may come as somewhat of a shock to you, to receive a letter from me. Someone who you most probably took to have been killed during the attacks on the coast. I am a little ashamed to say, that it took me a very long time to adjust to my disablement, which I have been left with as a result of being shot during battle. You may think that I took the cowards way out of not returning back to my own country. I was taken care of by some of the people from a resistance group. I eventually became one of the family, working out in their vineyard. Even later I became more of their family, I married the young woman who had taken care of me from the very beginning. Her name was Collette. It has now been some years since my wife died and I took to listening to a programme about Cromer, which set my mind wondering of you and of course of Annie. I know that I am treading on very thin ice, especially in asking you first, as to how I can ever get in contact with Annie. My own daughter has done most of the hard work for me

in tracing you both. I know a great deal about what has taken place during these many many years. You know absolutely nothing about me and where I have been. If you think that I am wasting my time in writing, I would not blame you for telling me so. But on the other hand, if there is a slightest chance of Annie wanting to know about me, please tell me first. Like all of us, I am getting older and like a young child, I can also say that I am afraid of being left totally alone.

William added more to his letter, telling Freda of his many years here and of his marriage and children. He left nothing out. Once he had finished, he felt that a whole weight had been lifted from his shoulders. Please dear God, let them not take pity on me, but feel as I do, a longing for the good days. Of times when we were happy.

Two whole months passed by from his letter being posted to England. As he sat close by the the fire one late morning, he heard a familiar voice call out to him. Bonjour William. I have many letters for you today. You have even got a letter from England.

Pasqual was a very good friend to him, that William often had him read his letters to him when he knew that Claudia would not be around for some days. Today however, William was not too sure as to whether he wanted to know what had been written. Would he have been told to stay far away, as he had already been doing for all these years, or would he be given a chance to be let back in.

Pasqual, my friend, may I ask of you a huge favour? This letter is one that I have been hoping to receive. Of its contents, I am not too sure as to how I will have been received.

Tonight I would enjoy your company. Perhaps you would like to have a meal with me and later read the contents of the letter to me? William waited for a reply.

Of course I will come. I shall even bring along some of my own wine for a change. I shall be here about 6 o'clock. So my friend, au revoir for now.

12

During the afternoon William kept his mind busy by preparing a meal for the two of them. Sheba followed him from table top to cupboards, dogging his side every time he moved. Even once having her paw stood on. That was your own fault. What do you think that I am going to do. Hurt myself with a slice of lettuce. You silly dog you. All this was said in a happy tone though. William had made up his mind that whatever was written upon the pages inside the envelope and there were many pages within he could tell by the thickness of the envelope. He would accept the criticism. He was the one who had not returned to England, so therefore he was the one who was in the wrong.

Sheba was the first to hear the sound of the car engine approaching the house along the dirt track which ran up from the main road. You could hear the happy greeting in the wagging of her tail. Sweeping from side to side on the kitchen floor. Sometimes he thought that sweeping brushes were something that were not necessary in his house, as Sheba swept away any unwanted dirt.

William had his front door open and greeted Pasqual as soon as he stepped out of his car. What a warm and pleasant evening to have our dinner outside said Pasqual. I will go and set up the table at the back.

Between them both they soon had their meal laid out, with Sheba sitting alongside of them. You have always been able to serve a good meal William. You should get married again you know. Ah mon dieu, I have said something wrong I can see by the expression on your face. Please accept my apologies. I would not wish to make you unhappy.

No, you have not made me unhappy. But I think that it is time for you to read to me the letter which you brought to me today. In there, there could be some harsh words which I have already resigned myself to hearing. William handed over the letter. Its envelope was quite creased, as during the day it had been handled quite a lot. Its unknown contents squeezed as if by doing so they could reveal what had been written upon the pages.

Pasqual settled down and placed his spectacles on his nose and without any further hesitation he opened up the envelope. He began.

My dear William, My reply to you has taken me some time to set down onto paper. Your letter and all that it has told me, took me a long while to adjust to. After you had been listed as missing in

action, Annie changed. She became a loner, never wanting to meet or be friends with anyone. Our own friendship suffered greatly. She cut herself off from me. As planned I did get married, even though Annie came to my wedding, she left early. It was if some of what was happening was her fault and she didn't want to inflict any pain to anyone else. She was the one who had to suffer.

In time however, as you already know, Annie did meet a man. He was at times too understanding with her. But they did have a good life together. Although not being able to have children herself, they adopted and made sure that fun and laughter was given in plenty to the children. Most of what I will tell you, will be of my later years, when Annie and I became friends again. Before then, I can only tell of what was gossip told to people and passed around the town.

The letter was signed, with fondest wishes, Freda.

Freda had given William hope in her letter to him. She had also sent him a few photographs. Pasqual did his best to describe these to him. Maybe you should go over to this place called Cromer. Between Claudia and me, we should be able to find you a suitable place to stay at. Maybe a vacation would be good for you.

And so after several more letters had exchanged between Freda and William, he took himself and Sheba off to Cromer. Now tonight as he recalled everything that he had found out about Annie's life, he waited with baited breath to hear what she now felt.

To say that all of this has come as something of a shock to me, is putting is very mildly indeed. My emotions are ranging from the incredibility of what you have told me, to one of distaste. That you have even thought of contacting me, but then shied away and took yet another route altogether and approached Freda. This is again somewhat distasteful. But on the other hand, I see your face and although your eyes do not see, they show a remorse and of hurt that only you yourself can feel. Oh William, I cannot tell you how I feel. My love for you has never gone away. It was only put to one side waiting for the day that you would return. Now, with whatever time that both of us have left, let us not waste it with the past. But look to a future together.

In saying these last words, Annie felt the familiar memory of his strong arms around her. Their embrace was one of love. A love that was no longer lost.

The End

A New Life Begins

By

Greta Ann Hughes

A New Life Begins

It had been a very bleak Christmas. What with Marys father just being made redundant from the steel works and her mother not being well, it had fallen yet again upon Mary to try and do her best in making this time of the year as festive as possible.

Her father had taken to going straight to the local pub as soon as they opened and on most days he would be brought home by one of his drinking friends. Then he would sleep and snore the rest of the day by. But on waking he would be in such a fearful mood, that woe betide anyone who got in his way. He would bellow for his evening meal and if this was not ready she would feel the weight of his hand on the back of her head.

More often than not it was her mother who suffered the outbursts of rage. She was the one who should have been looking after him, after all that is why he had married her in the first place. Someone to keep the house clean and have all his clothes washed and ironed and to have food on the table.

And so on the eve of the new year of 1956, Mary was toiling through the dirty washing, trying to get the clothes dried, which she had washed earlier in the day and making sure that these were all put away tidily, before she could get herself off to bed. She was so tired. Her parents had decided that they would go out and celebrate the New Year and so she had been left alone for the evening. With no friends that she could call upon, Mary carried on as if it was like any other day. She was woken up in the early hours of the morning and at first she thought that the noise

of the people shouting outside, were revellers on their way home from parties at friends houses or the local pubs. Then she smelt the acrid smoke, which was starting to creep under her door. Jumping out of her bed and putting on her slippers and housecoat she dashed to the bedroom door. Opening it a little way and peeping out, she was forced back inside as the smoke rushed towards her. Hurriedly she closed the door and pushed her pillows against the bottom of the door and going to her window she looked down. There below her were her neighbours and men from the fire brigade. Gesturing for her to open her window and climb out, she did so, even though she was very afraid. The firemen had set up a ladder, so as she pushed the window upwards, they were there to guide her out and down to safety.

Mary was taken to the nearest hospital and the next morning when she woke she was very frightened. She had no idea of what had happened to her parents and was so worried that she had somehow caused the fire. The doctor soon arrived and told her as gently as possible that her parents had not survived and that he was sorry that he had to give her this sad news. But what will I do now, sobbed Mary. I have no other family and nowhere to go.

Please do not upset yourself so, I will get in touch with the authorities and we will see what they can do for you, and he patted her hand gently and left her to make his call. She was such a sad little thing, hardly anything to her and he felt a tug at his heart. He and his wife and not been able to have children and from what the doctor had heard about Mary and her upbringing, he wanted nothing more than to protect and care for her. The authorities said that as she was almost of an age where she could start work and that

she would most probably be put into a childrens home. Then it would be up to her to make her own arrangements of finding a job and a place to live of her own. The authorities were very overworked and one case was just like the previous one. They couldn't afford to show too much emotion, otherwise if they did they wouldn't be able to do their jobs

Dr. Shaw was aghast at this news and as soon as he could, he rang his wife Dorothy, to see if she would be prepared to let him bring Mary home with him. Dorothy said yes straight away, how can I let a poor thing like that go into a home after what she has been through. I will make up the spare room straight away for her."

Mary so unaccustomed to having any one care about her cried, how will I repay you, you are such a generous man and your wife must be like an angel. You must tell her that I can clean and cook, wash and iron and anything else that needs doing

My dear girl, you will not be coming to our home to do these things. You must rest and when you are well, finish off your schooling, so that when you leave school you will be able to get the job that you want. Have you thought about the type of work you would like to do and dont tell me cleaning house, he said teasingly.

I have not really thought about my career. Outside of doing my chores at home, I rarely have time for myself. I have never had a childhood like other children have. The other children at my school tease me and call me names, so I dont even have a friend as such to call upon. Mary said.

She looked so forlorn that Dr Shaw was worried what her experience so far in life would have on her.

Dr Shaw and his wife Dorothy made preparations to the spare bedroom so as to make Mary feel welcome. They didnt want to overdo it, as it might look as though they were showing off how well they seemed to be. Dorothy hummed away to a tune as she put the new prettily embroidered bed cover on, which matched the bright floral curtains. The view from this room overlooked the park. Mary would surely love being in here, Dorothy thought.

All the arrangements had been made for Mary to leave the hospital and for the burial of her parents. It would be a very quiet service and committal as there had been very little money left by her parents.

On the day of the funeral Mary held on to Dorothys hand and as their coffins were lowered down she cried, Why should I feel so bad that they died and I survived. Do not let yourself feel like this Mary, you are young and have a full life ahead of you Dorothy said in a quiet tone. Of course you will feel sad, but you must remember the good times which you had and I am sure that there must have been some.

As they prepared to go, Mary took a last look back and said in a quiet voice, Mother never seemed to have many happy times, it was my father who had the most enjoyment, out nearly all the time and when he wasnt, he had prime spot in front of the fire. Why is

it that the good things in life are not spread evenly out amongst people? Even in the poorest families you can find that there is lots of love amongst them. But there was little love in our house. This was said in such a sad tone, that Dorothy was near to tears.

She led Mary away and all three of them made their way back to the doctors house. It would be the first time that Mary had been there and she felt a little nervous and wondered what they would expect of her. As they approached the house Mary looked about at her new surroundings, taking in the cleanliness and the bright colours that the houses were painted. She felt a little like a character in a Charles Dickens novel, the poor relative. They made their way through the front gate, up a path which on one side had a beautifully mown lawn, one which looked like a bowling green, lines going straight one way and then the other. Even though this had not been mowed since late autumn, it still looked as fresh. Winter shrubs edged round to the back garden, the vivid green of the leaves stood out dotted with red and white berries, which had not as yet been eaten by the birds.

The back garden had a small summerhouse at the far end, which currently held all the garden chairs in store, until the warmer weather arrived.

Mary stood looking about her in amazement. She had never had a garden at her old house and was wondering what it would be like in the summer, when it would be full of colour and scents from the flowers and bees buzzing hungrily about.

Come along inside Mary and I will show you to your new room. I do hope that you will

like it, and Dorothy led the way.

As they went up the stairs towards Marys new

room, she looked around her at the pretty china and beautiful paintings that were in the hall and stairways. She was ushered into her room and Dorothy said gently everything here is for you to use, do not be afraid to touch or hold anything you like. At a later date we can buy you some ornaments or anything that you want.

Mary looked about her and then she ran into the arms of Dorothy. I dont know how I can ever thank you. But you can be sure that I will never be any trouble to you. You will hardly even know that I am here.

Oh Mary it is us who should thank you. You have already brought us joy in coming to stay with us. Dorothy said in a sincere tone. When you have looked about your room, come on downstairs and we can have lunch and then we will have a chance to talk with you.

It only took Mary a few moments to put away the few things that had survived the fire at her old house. What hadnt been burnt, had been badly damaged by the smell of the smoke, that no matter how much it had been washed and cleaned the smell would not leave it. She looked at the view and thought that she would have wonderful dreams from now on.

Mary made her way downstairs and found Dorothy and the doctor sitting at the kitchen table. Lunch had been laid out on the table and the aroma, which hung around the kitchen, made her realise just how hungry she felt. As she took the empty seat where the

table had been set for her, she clasped her hands together and said a silent prayer of thanks for everything, which seemed to be coming her way. As she took a forkful of the savoury steak pie she said, this taste so good, did you make it Dorothy?

Yes I did, I like to keep busy in the kitchen and after Tom has finished his shifts at the hospital, I like him to have a good cooked meal. After lunch they went into the cosy lounge where they could be more comfortable to have their talk about Marys future.

From now on I would like you to call me Tom, after all I am now your guardian and not your doctor, except of course if you get flu or something. Next, something which you may have been wondering about, your school. We have been to the local school just down the road and they are prepared to let you carry on your education there. It is a very nice school and the children are all local to here, so you must not feel afraid. Dorothy and I will go with you on Monday to see the head teacher and to get you settled in. Now do you have any questions to ask us?

Mary sat on the edge of her seat and with a frown crossing her face she asked, What will the people at the new school think of me. What sort of uniform do they have? How will I buy it? It seems such a lot of trouble for so little time that I will be there. She sat back and carried on by saying, You asked what sort of career had I thought about, well since then and seeing how I have been treated, I think I would like to try and look after those who are in need themselves. The thing is, what sort of qualifications will I need for something like this and where would I be able to get training on it. Well now lets try and get some answers for you. First of all the school, the teachers

have been told that you were in involved in a fire at your home and that we are now your guardians, until you reach the age of 21. What they will think of you I cannot say, other than that you are a lovely girl with a lovely manner and you shouldnt have any problems at all there. Next the uniform, they do have one and Dorothy will be taking you shopping tomorrow to get you anything that you might need, so that should take care of those questions for you. As to the choice of career, well I think that on Monday when we go to see the head teacher this is something that you can ask her about. I am quite sure that she will be able to point you in the right direction. So now that we have got all that out of the way, what do you both say about going to see a movie tonight. I am sure that this could be a real treat for us all.

And so the first turning in Marys new life began. On the Monday morning they all arrived at the school early. Mary had her new uniform on and completed her dress by wearing new socks, shoes and coat. She felt like a million dollars. The head teacher Miss Sparrow was very impressed by Marys turnout and the way she spoke. On the question of her career she said that during the day that she would look into this and if Mary would call in at the office when her last lesson was finished, she would hopefully have all the answers for her then.

She said good-bye to the doctor and to Dorothy and then led Mary to her first class. Normally she would have been to the morning assembly and then on to the first lesson, but just for today she had been let off this.

Her first class was English and after being introduced to the teacher and to her fellow

students, she settled down at her desk to begin her lesson. She soon found that she seemed more advanced, but perhaps that had something to do with all the books she had read in the past. With very little else to do, other than the housework she had to get done, she had read a great deal and could always be found at the library.

The rest of the day went by in a flash and Mary made her way to Miss Sparrows office. She knocked and heard a voice saying enter. Hello Mary, just give me a moment please, I have all the information for you. Ok, so let me see now. You have good marks in both English and mathematics, which are a must if you want to follow the courses that you need to take. As you are now fifteen and will be finishing in just a few months time, you will either be able to sign up for a day course at the local college or you could do the course at night, leaving the day for you to find a job in which to carry you over until you have passed all the examinations needed. As the course goes on for 3 years, you may want to do this at night school, as I do know a little of your situation. Please do not think that I am being presumptuous about this, but if you find yourself a job in the meantime, you may not feel as though you are relying on anyone. I must also stress to you that you must take this up with your guardians and let them help you to make your decision. I must also say that the teachers you have seen today have been very pleased with your work. I hope that you will enjoy your time here and in time make new friends.

Mary felt tears come to her eyes but blinked them back quickly and said, I must thank you for all the trouble you have gone to for me today. I think that you are probably right in suggesting that I get a job, because that will then give me some money with which to buy books and anything else that I may need. Also I wont feel as dependant on Dorothy

and Tom. They have both been so good to me. Thank you again and I am looking forwards to my next few months here. This was said very sincerely, it was such a treat to find young people who had respect for others Miss Sparrow thought.

Mary felt so happy that she felt like skipping her way home, but instead did a gentle jog. She let herself in with the shiny new key that had been cut for her and from the kitchen she could hear Dorothy singing a tune. She trod very quietly to the kitchen doorway and listened to the soothing voice that was singing and as Dorothy turned and saw her standing there she stopped and gave her a big smile. Have you had a good day Mary: Oh it was really truly good. Everyone is so nice and all the lessons seemed to go by so quickly. Then I went to see Miss Sparrow and she told me about what course and the time that this would take. I have decided that I will do the course at night school, so that I can earn a wage during the day. I will be able to earn my keep and learn at the same time. Oh I feel so happy. Will you let me make you both a special meal on Saturday?

And so Mary carried on for the next few of months with her studies. She made friends with the girls in her classes and was a credit to the school, as she achieved top marks in all her subjects. When it came time for her to leave the school, she had already been busy in going for interviews and finally found employment with a local company, which dealt in fine silk fabrics. She was to assist in the offices and was looking forward to starting her job. So during the next week before she was to start her new job, she enrolled herself in at the college and was given the times for when to attend and what lessons they were to be. Mary took advantage of having a few days just lazing about. This was something that was most unusual for her, as her days had always been so full in the past. She went

for long walks and thought a lot about what the future could hold for her.

She also sat in the garden, which was now in full bloom, and the scents from the flowers filled the air around her. During this time of thinking she also thought of how she had changed. She was no longer lonely and her once thin gaunt figure had started to fill out. Her skin had a youthful glow to it and she prided herself in the way her new cloths fitted her. Dorothy and Tom had done and given her so much, that at times she felt that she would never be able to repay them. The job which she would be starting paid a reasonable wage and working things out, giving some money for her keep and all the books and papers she would need for college, she calculated that there could be a small amount, which she could save. This was very exciting for Mary, because as she had had so little in her past, everything that was new held a special meaning for her.

On Monday morning she woke bright and early, as she wanted to make a good impression on her first day. She had managed to buy a couple of new blouses and was able to adapt part of her school uniform for everyday wear. As the night school class was going to be starting soon after her finishing time at work, she took along with her the new briefcase, which Tom had bought for her, packed with all her books and papers, which she needed. Her day passed by quite quickly and she was amazed at how much noisier a place of work can be. People chattered away constantly, it was a wonder how much work that they could accomplish. Mary had been so used to a room where there was either no talking at all, or if there was, it was one person at a time.

After her day was over she went straight to college where she met up with all the students

who were waiting in the reception to be given their new term programme schedules. The majority of those present were new to the college and like her, they all seemed to be going from desk to desk to find where their classes should be. It was total confusion, but in the end they all found their way about.

After a few weeks at night school Mary felt as though her head was about to burst. She was taking in so much new information that she thought that she had taken on too much. She said to Dorothy one evening after they had eaten, I dont think that I have the ability to complete this course, everyone is so much brighter than I am. I am sure that I am falling behind and will never pass the exams. Mary was near to tears but Dorothy said to her soothingly Dont upset yourself like this, just take one day at a time and you will get there in the end. You probably dont think that things will slot in to place, but they will. These are new avenues which you are going down, and there are going to be times when this will be difficult. But always remember that we are here for you and if either of us can help you, you only have to ask.

The soothing way that Dorothy had, calmed the fears which Mary was having. I am so grateful for all you have done for me. You must think that I am complete fool, always bleating about one thing or another.

Dorothy patted Marys hand and said My dear you are no trouble whatsoever, so you must not think like that. You have brought a great deal of joy into our home and we wouldnt want it any other way. And so with these words of comfort they settled down for a quiet evening together. Tom

was working late at the hospital and as for Dorothy she now had a reassurance of being safe with someone else in the house. It had taken away the lonely moments that seemed to creep up on a person at the oddest of times. She was so used to Tom working the different hours that he did, but on occasion she would wander about the house and listen for all sorts of strange noises, which most times she had made up in her own mind. And so the night passed by all too quickly and as they said their goodnights, they both felt a togetherness with each other and giving one another hugs they went to their own rooms.

As Mary carried on with her exams, it was during the Christmas break that Tom came down with influenza. So unlike Tom, he took to his bed and remained there for two weeks. Dorothy fretted about the house, wringing her hands and crying. This was the first time in all their married life that Tom was ill. Working in a hospital he somehow always managed to get away with any of the flu bugs, which got hold of many of the staff there. For Mary, she was able to practice her nursing skills on him. Plumping his pillows up and taking his temperature. She also made sure that he had plenty of fluids on hand. Soon Tom started to feel much better. After breakfast he started to get up and sit downstairs and to join Dorothy and Mary for lunch. After that he usually had a nap later on in the afternoon, but then managed to join them again for dinner. Once this was over, Mary with hands on hips, would order him back to bed. How on earth do you think that you will ever recover if you are not going to rest? With that he would be led upstairs and neatly tucked in for the night.

After another couple of weeks of pampering, Tom was fully recovered and said that he felt able to go back to work. The evening before going back to the hospital, Tom had a

talk with Dorothy and Mary. I think that I will say that I am going back on short time. This influenza really shook me up and now that I am not the young man that I used to be, I want more time to spend at home with you and to tend to the gardens in the summertime.

And so as the new year approached, Mary started to think about the previous new year and what she had achieved since then. It was Mary who suggested that they have a small party. A double celebration. One, that Tom was going to be spending more time at home and two, for Mary to thank them both for everything, for without them she wouldnt be where she was today.

The next couple of years flew by for Mary and with all the exams taken, all that was left now was to wait for her results to come through. It was a very tense few weeks, each morning the post was scanned thoroughly before Mary set off for work. Finally the morning came when the result letter arrived, she opened this with shaking fingers and read the page through. Yes, yes, yes, she cried. I have passed with full grades. I can now start to look for a new job within the health service. I do so hope that my dreams of caring for people in need will not be dashed. Oh Tom will you be able to put me in touch with the right departments. I know I always ask you. Mary gave him that little girl look which always made him smile.

She had been such a breath of fresh air in their household. He and Dorothy would do anything for her. Well first of all young lady, let me say congratulations and if

Dorothy is agreeable, why dont we all meet tonight and go for a celebratory meal. Also

my dear one, you neednt ask as you well know I will do my utmost to help you and that goes for Dorothy too.

Dorothy was still sitting at the kitchen table, a handkerchief dabbing at her eyes, wiping away the tears of happiness for Mary. You are a clever girl and you must always remember that we are here for you whenever you need us. As for tonight let it be a late meal, because I would like to meet Mary and we could do a little late shopping at the new boutique that has opened and it will be my treat for that special dress that you have been looking at.

Mary thanked them both with big hugs and kisses and then wiped away her own tears of joy. She was now well on her way in her chosen career and with more studying on her own part and the love from her guardians, who she now considered to be her adoptive parents, she could see the shining light at the end of the dark tunnel which had taken her so many years to pass through.

The End

There's Something In The Hedgerow

By

Greta Ann Hughes

Theres Something In The Hedgerow

Richard and Penny were finally on their way to retire to their home in Italy. A long awaited day. They had bought the old country house several years earlier and had since then been spending only their holidays there. Each time they left was harder than the first, especially as their neighbours had become their close friends.

After their last packed box had left the apartment to go onto the removal van, Richard and Penny took a last look around their rented apartment to make sure nothing had been forgotten. Handing in the keys at the reception desk, they said their good-byes and made their way to their car for the long drive to Italy.

Thank God that this will be the last time that we have to do this long haul to Dover said Richard.

Tiring as the journey was, the longest and the most weariest, was the one from Manchester down to Dover.

If it wasnt for that stupid channel crossing, we could be over in no time at all. Why couldnt they have made the tunnel so that you could just drive through it. Richard ranted.

I hope he is not going to be like this all the way, Penny thought. Today he should be the

happiest man. Humph some happy man.

The journey down to Dover, along with the ferry crossing to Calais, went like a dream. No delays and the traffic kept on moving.

After travelling for almost two days non-stop, except for short breaks for snacks and the use of the toilets and oh my goodness, some of these were diabolical. How on earth anyone could get a turd to balance on the edge of a toilet seat, well they had to be a magician.

On the last stop to fill up with petrol, they bought a daily paper. Although there was still a language barrier, because they didn't know a lot of Italian, but they knew enough. On the second page was a small news item, which told of several people who had gone missing over the last couple of months. The missing people had all been travelling along the autostrada towards the exit at Pedaso. Which just so happened to be their turn off point. The only items, which the police had been able to find so far, were small items of jewellery or pieces of clothing. Small things which had been caught on the many shrubs which grew along the roadside.

Bloody hell, I hope you dont want to stop for anything. If you do, tough, Im carrying straight on said Richard. I want to have a few years of enjoyment before I disappear, he carried on.

What the devil could have got them. Its always so quite down this way. Apart from the

idiotic driver who thinks he can beep you out of the way said Penny.

As they neared the turn off for Pedaso, they scanned the hedging along the road for any signs, of what they couldnt say. They just craned their necks like all the tourists do.

But just as they passed by, a slight shiver ran down Pennys spine.

The last leg of the journey passed by quickly. All the flowers were in full bloom, as they drove by all the houses leading up to Tavernelle. As it was a Sunday there was still a lot of movement on the road, as many people went about visiting their relations. Big family gatherings for lunch on a Sunday was something which still happened here.

Doesnt it feel good that we will now be staying here. Not just for a week or so, but always. Hey, have you noticed anything? No, well we have clear skies, no sign of clouds for a change. This has got to be a good omen. Penny ventured to say. Hope I havent opened my big trap too soon she added.

Well soon see, when we drop down the last lane and catch sight of our house. If we see clouds bubbling up, we will know that the rain will follow soon after. Richard answered back.

Taking the last narrow road slowly, as this road always seemed narrower on the first day, they rounded the bend and saw their home. All was quiet, no visitors about. Most unusual. But this did give them a chance to check out their house before going in and

turning on the lights. After a quick tour around each of the rooms, Richard then went and opened up the garage and turned on the water. All was well in there as well. So far so good. What bombshell was there lurking for them.

The next few weeks were hectic ones. They had to clear out of the old furniture, before they could start on repainting the whole house. A mammoth task, for where could everything that they wanted to keep go. In the end it was decided that the old stables would be cleaned out and that they would use that space. When they first bought the house and they had looked at the stables, they had the idea that this could have been made into a small bedsit. Maybe they could have rented the main house our for bed and breakfast and they would have slept in the stables. But no, far too much work would be involved, plus all the extra money that it would cost. So after brushing and scraping all of the walls, and a coat of white emulsion, it had transformed itself into a nice storage area. Having accomplished this, Richard and Penny started work on the main house. One room at a time. But all too soon they had finished it all off. All they had to do now was move a little more of the furniture and wait for a couple of more days for the rest of their belongings to arrive.

Perhaps we might get a little beach time in before starting work when the removal van has been, Penny said. Oh I do feel excited, like a kid with a new toy.

Indeed they did get to the beach. The weather stayed glorious all day long. Although on the first evening there was a little rain.

Furniture day arrived and the first of their problems began. Phone call after phone call and telling the removal men that they were trying to drive into the hamlet from the wrong direction and that if they did drive through the right way, then yes, their van would be able to get to us. In the end after lots of arguing, the men said that they would have to hire a smaller van and then bring our furniture to us in several trips. No way were we going to pay for the hire of the van, Penny told the manager. Just make sure that they get everything to us tomorrow, or there would be trouble.

A wasted day, hanging around doing nothing but argue. They had bloody well get our stuff to us tomorrow, or they can stick it up their fat backsides, Richard fumed. Bloody well quick enough to take your money and the amount that this has cost us. If I had known there would have been this much farting about, I would have dumped it all back in Manchester and made do with what we had here already, he added.

So 24hours later and the furniture van finally arrived with its first load. Meeting the driver and his mate for the first time, well just to look at them made up your mind straightaway. Neither of them seemed to have a brain between them. After four trips in the hire van they finally got it all unloaded. All that remained now was to put everything in place. How easy that sounded.

But with Richard and Penny it was more like Laurel and Hardy. Whichever end of a piece of furniture Richard said lift, Penny always got hold of the wrong one. Lots of sniggers and with shoulders shuddering in laughter, Penny couldnt help herself, especially when Richards face remained so straight. But for now they said that they had

done enough for one day. Tomorrow bright and early they would make a fresh start.

After working ceaselessly for the next few days, all the work was done. Sounds easy but it wasn't. Thank heavens for that Penny groaned. I dont think I could do anymore. My whole body aches from bending, lifting and shoving. Its OK for you, youre a man, big and strong, me Im just a weakling. She carried on.

Cup of coffee sounds good to me Richard smirked.

OK then, lets drink it outside and have a well earned rest.

Over their cups of coffee they discussed what they were going to do next. As usual top of the list was the beach, along with days of going to the shopping centre. One of the best things that they loved to do together was shop. Never had they gone home empty handed. They always found some bargain to pick up.

Life settled down to their own daily routines. Richard helped out with doing local odd jobs, anything from helping with the planting or picking of vegetables. Helping out with any repairs on houses. Richard had learnt a great deal over the last few years of owning their own old farmhouse. From replacing the roof tiles, fitting glass into windows and most of all plumbing. Their so called beautiful bathroom, describe in the sales blurb, was something else. Nearly all the pipes had had to be replaced from either having blown off the walls, or the rubber lining perishing. All that could be heard one night was What the hell has happened now. Damned bathroom. Im completely soaked. Dont

just stand there do something Richard bellowed.

As he ranted on, getting more purple in the face, Penny ran up and down the stairs getting cloths to mop up with and tools for him to fix the burst. All the while she tried to keep a straight face, but in the end she couldnt. After more snorts of laughter and that included Richard, the situation eased and Richard calmed down and managed to do the repair without any more bouts of blasphemy.

With more time on Pennys hands, she decided that she would try and start up her own collection of knitted baby clothes and toys. She knew that she would be able to ask one of her friends to put them in their shop, to see how well they sold. If they didnt sell, well she could always try something else.

Richard had been in to town to pick up a few more tools and had brought back with him the daily paper. Something which they hadnt bothered with for several weeks.

As they sat outside, enjoying the peace and quiet and drinking their coffees, Richard started to read the paper.

Hey, remember the story which we read weeks ago about the people who had gone missing near Pedaso, well it seems that another one has gone missing. Lets see, it says here, latest victim is a young lady, who had recently passed her driving test and had decided to go for a short drive. Her car had run out of petrol, typical woman Richard muttered, and there was no other sign of her. Richard read on, this in now the seventh

disappearance and the police and local authorities and volunteers were no further in their investigations in finding out what was going on. A full list had also been released in the newspaper of everything, which so far had been found near to the site where these people had disappeared. Anyone who thought that they may recognise any of the items or who may know of some reason for these disappearances, should ring a local number to give their information to.

Bloody hell, this is like something you read about in a Stephen King novel. Penny remarked. As avid Stephen King readers, anything ghoulish was right up their street, as the saying goes. Gives me the heebie jeebies though. I hope we never have to stop anywhere near there, continued Penny.

Later on that night when they went to bed, Richard clambered in beside her and started to creep across the bed sheet, making sucking noises and hanging out his tongue. Im the thing from the hedgerow and I am going to gobble you up slurp slurp. Richard murmured as he nuzzled against her neck.

Oh God, stop it, youre making me squirm. Stop slobbering you beast. Pushing him away Penny dried her neck and turned to face him again. Later after they had made love, they both lay there awake. It was Penny who first spoke, I wonder what the families of the missing people are going through. Lying here with only the sounds of the night animals, you cant imagine anything like that happening around here.

I know what you are saying. We think it is ideal living in such a quiet place, but being

so close to the sea, you never know if these people have been caught to be traded out. Im sure this still goes on. As we have read that most of the missing people are females. Get paid more for them, as you can get more work out of them as well. Said Richard

Cheeky bugger, said Penny, giving him a dig in the ribs. Trust you to think of something like that. Any way, Im going to try some shut eye, Ill see you in the morning, love you, night night Penny said.

Morning came around very quickly, a beautiful bright sunny morning. Pushing back the bed sheets, Penny tiptoed downstairs to put the coffee on. Opening up the shutters, she stood looking out over the hillside. Oh what a beautiful place, she thought, so quiet and tranquil. But also her thoughts crept back to the missing hedgerow people. Who or what could have got them, she pondered. All of them had been in cars, as no one walks along the autostrada, unless they had broken down. Other things like drinks or any sort of liquid were also mentioned as being gone. This was something which the newspapers had reported. Penny shrugged her shoulders as the percolator rasped out its last drop of water, which brought her back to getting the coffees poured. Penny carried the coffees upstairs, wake up sleepy head, Penny whispered as she gave Richard a nudge to wake him. Coffee has arrived.

Dont I know it, he said, with the racket you make in the kitchen, no one can stay asleep. He stretched out and gave a long yawn, his mouth as wide as a tunnel. Sitting up he looked out of the bedroom window. Oh great, just the kind of day I like. Spot of sunning myself as I finish off the repair on the garage roof. Any chance of giving me a

hand with some of the tiles. Richard gave that sweet smile of his.

Ill see, I have sill got the shawl to finish for Rosa, she needs it for Friday.

Later on in the evening Penny received a call from her friend Louisa, who had a house down by the sea front, only a couple of hours drive away. After finishing the call she went outside to tell Richard. Louisa was wondering if I could go and see her and perhaps stay for the weekend. She has been a bit down of late, since loosing her baby and was thinking to herself that she could do with a bit of company to cheer her up. I told her that I didnt think you would mind, but I will ring her back later. I could go on Friday and be back later on Sunday. I know that you will be out most of Friday and possibly out shooting on Saturday morning. You dont mind do you? Oh good. Love you lots you know. Penny ran back indoors and made the arrangements to see Louisa on Friday about midday.

When Friday morning came, Richard got ready to go off to help out at a neighbours field, digging up the carrots. Well drive carefully now and dont go speeding. Richard ducked as a playful punched was aimed at him. Have a good time and give my love to Louisa. Tell her she must come and stay here one weekend. Love to get together with Pino again. Richard kissed Penny on the cheek and gave her a quick pat on the bottom, whistling as he went.

Penny soon followed. She locked the house up and with her overnight bag in her hand, she went out to her car. Soon she was off down the road and with thoughts of what they

could do for the afternoon, she soon found that she was nearing the tolls to get on to the autostrada. With another half hours drive, Penny soon took the turn off to get to Louisas. All the hedges surrounding Louisas house were still in bloom, their fragrance hung in the hot air. Penny was hopeless at remembering plant names, but they had large purple flowers, with a heady scent. Parking the car, Penny called out. Ciao Louisa, caught you napping in the midday sun have I. They hugged affectionately and Penny sat down under the sun umbrella. It is so good to just sit in the shade. Driving has been so bad in the car. Is it far too noisy with the windows open, but far too hot when they are closed. Next time Im going to get a car with air conditioning. Moan, moan, and here I am supposed to be cheering you up. Well what have you got planned for us to do this afternoon? Penny leaned back in her chair and took a long drink from the cool fresh orange juice which had just been handed to her.

Louisa replied I though that we could go the new store which has recently opened up nearby. They have some wonderful paintings. Then maybe we could go to the ice cream bar, I know how much you enjoy ice creams. When we return, I have already prepared a meal and I thought we could just put our feet up and have a long chat, pure nonsense, but something to make me laugh. Pino has been away for two weeks now and still has another two weeks to go before he gets back. It is the biggest time of the year for him. Getting everything ready for the annual Fieri in Milan for next seasons hotel requirements. Hopefully we can then book a holiday and maybe get out to see you for a weekend, to see how your house looks now after all your work which you have done. How is Richard?

Oh hes fine. Loving every minute of his early retirement. But keeping busy as well. You do know that he has taken up doing any sort of odd jobs for anyone, Penny replied.

No I didnt. But I can imagine him doing it though. It was something he always said that he wanted to do. I remember one night when you were staying with us, the lights all went out and all you could hear from Pino and Richard was, bugger me, what do you do with that and Richard replying, put it in the slot and screw it up tight. You and I were in fits of laughter, doubled up when they finally came out of the cupboard. At first they didnt know what we were laughing at until we told them. That was a great night.

After several hours of shopping Louisa drove them the short distance back to her home. Unpacking the car with all the gifts which they had bought, they then set to in finishing the preparations for the evening meal together. Louisa laid the table out for their meal, then they sat down and ate in silence for some time. A cool evening breeze blew through the open patio doors. Lightly moving the fine white gossamer curtains. I think that this has been the most enjoyable day that I have had for a long time. It has been like having a breath of fresh air with you being here today. I have not had any time to sit thinking about what could have been, if only my baby had lived. Thank you so much for today. Louisa leaned forward and gently grasped Pennys hand.

I am only too glad that I have been able to take your mind off things for a little while. They do say that with time the pain does ease. You are still very young and I know that it is little consolation at this time, but there will be other children that you and Pino will have one day, Penny said.

They sat in comfortable silence for quite some time. Both of them thinking back to the times gone by. The silence was finally broken by Penny who yawned long and loud. I think it is well past my bedtime. I have always been one for going to bed early and just look at the time, well past midnight, it is extremely late for me. She leaned over to Louisa and gave her a sisterly kiss on the cheek and bid her goodnight.

Penny woke up and could hear the sea gently sending in its waves on to the beach. She was looking forward to having a lazy day on the beach, soaking up some of the sunshine, which had continued all through the month of September. Now as October was nearing, the cooler weather would be arriving, but the weather was never anything like it was back in England. She dressed ready to go to the beach and made her way to the cosy kitchen where Louisa was already sat, sipping a cup of morning coffee. Good morning to you, I hope you had a good sleep. I went straight off for a change. It must have been the wine which made me go to sleep so quickly. Please help yourself to coffee and juice, and there are fresh rolls in the bread basket. Louisa said.

It is good to see you so cheerful. I hope you are looking forward to having a lazy day on the beach today. The sky is so clear and blue, and listening to the waves when I woke, has also made me look forward to having a quick dip in the water as well. I do love going to the beach and when I think of the days that I had to spend sitting at a reception desk all day long. Penny gave a sigh of relief.

The rest of the day and evening went by very quickly. But by the look on Louisas face,

it showed that some of her anxieties had been laid to rest, for the time being anyway. Sunday morning came around and Penny made ready to take her leave to go back to Richard and her home. Penny picked up her small suitcase and placed it in the boot and turning to Louisa she said, I have had a wonderful time. I hope that you can get out to see us soon. The grapes will be ready for picking shortly, perhaps you can come up for that. We are going to have a go and make our own wine. Goodness knows what it will turn out like. But with Ginos help, it should be OK. Thinking of Richard, poor man has been left all on his own for the last couple of days. You never know what he can get up to. I just hope that Gino hasnt been tempting him with the wine jug. When they get together, well all I can say is that there have been times when he has had to be carried back home. They both laughed at the thought of Richard being carried home. With Richard being well over six foot tall, the image of their two friends, who were only small, carrying the large frame of Richard, it did conjure up a funny vision. Please do not leave it too long before you get in touch. Penny added.

After lots of good-byes Penny set off for the journey back home. She filled the car up with petrol just before she got on to the autostrada. With thoughts of the painting which she had bought for Richard, she hadnt realised how quickly she had reached the sign for Pedaso. The road was very quiet, even for Sunday morning. The car gave a slight shudder, then another one. Glancing at the controls, Penny was struck wondering of what was wrong with the car. It wasnt getting overheated and the petrol level was two thirds full. She was still pondering over this, when the car gave a final shudder and practically stopped in the lane that she was driving in. Managing to get the car on to the hard shoulder, where it came to a standstill. She tried turning the key in the ignition again,

but all that she got from it was a rattle. Penny opened the car door and went round to the boot to get her handbag and to get her mobile phone. She was still thinking that the traffic on the road was quiet, when all of a sudden she caught a glimpse of something slithering up from the undergrowth along the verge. As it neared her it split into many long thin strips, of what looked like string. Still puzzled about what was happening, Penny reached into her bag and took out her phone. As quick as a flash the long stringy things sprang forwards. Each of the strands driving their way forwards to their own position along the car. Penny gave a little squeal of surprise and made to run away from the one, which appeared to be making its way towards her. But she was too slow to get out of its way. With rapid speed it quickly wrapped itself around her ankle, making her fall forwards, and landing on her hands and knees. She gave out another squeal of surprise that such a thin looking thing could be so strong.

As she sat there, she could hear a faint sucking noise, rather like an elderly lady having to sip through a straw that she wasnt used to doing. The thin strands of string started to grow, as if they were gaining weight. It then dawned on her that these things were slowly draining the fluids from the car. Realising this, she then understood what was happening. This was the something from the hedgerow. As if sensing that she was beginning to understand what was going on, the strand coiled around her leg tightened its grip and started to drag her forwards. The other strands started to come away from the car and attached themselves to Penny, helping the first strand to pull her into the verge. Screaming and trying to grab hold of anything which came to hand to try and stop herself from being dragged forwards. The strands far outnumbered her in strength. With each tug she was pulled further and further into the hedgerow. Managing to lift her head

upwards to look in the direction she was being pulled, she saw that the strand had started to join itself up to being one thick strand again. It appeared to be coming from a long slit at the base of one of the hedges. Both of her ankles had a couple of strands attached to them and as her feet approached the narrow slit, the slit opened up more to allow her to go through without scraping at her.

Slowly she saw her legs, then her lower body being enveloped by the black slit. She was still screaming as she was finally pulled through and she was put into complete darkness. With her hands still free, Penny felt around her surroundings, trying to make out what sort of hole or burrow she was still being pulled down into. Raising her hands palm upwards, she felt along the roof. Feeling nothing but a smooth surface, she brought her hands down to the sides and then onto the floor. All of which felt the same. Even and smooth. This wasnt some animal burrow she was in. It felt more like man made. There were other things that she started began to notice, the air she was breathing was clean, like being in an air-conditioned room. Also the silence, even though she was still being pulled along, there was a stillness to the atmosphere.

When after an indeterminate length of time, Penny realised that she was no longer being pulled along. Sitting up she started to feel at her ankles, nothing was there. All the time that she had been being dragged along, she had been in total darkness. Now that she had stopped she tried to focus her eyes, but there was nothing at all to be seen. Starting to panic again, Penny slowly raised herself onto her hands and knees and began to explore her surroundings. The room, for a better word, was not high enough for her to stand, but by kneeling up she could stretch her back. She shuffled around the room and felt three

solid walls, but the fourth one, was something she couldnt make out. When she put her hand on it, there was a resistance to it. Like when you press a balloon, your finger goes so far, but then wont go any further.

Completely mystified and very scared, Penny moved backwards and sat down resting herself against the wall. As she sat there, wondering all the while what was going to happen next, she saw a faint pinprick of light coming towards her very slowly. As it neared her, the light began to grow, lighting up the whole area. As it grew lighter in her room, she was able to see that the walls seemed to be made of some kind of ceramic tile, all one piece, very shiny and slightly warm to the touch.

Finally the beam of light stopped maybe a metre away from her. It then took on the shape of an orb, and as it did so, it started to waver in front of her, as if it was making a search of her. A piece of the orb broke away and attached itself to the wall to her right, the rest of the orb quickly sped away the way that it had come. The piece which was left on the wall, still light up her room, enabling her to watch the doorway.

Penny had no idea of how to escape. She sat there alone and frightened. It was only when she started to cry and needed a tissue to wipe her tears, that she realised that she still had her handbag. She had put this over her shoulder and head when she had first opened up the boot on her car. She was overjoyed that she had been able to keep something from the outside with her, that she stopped thinking about her tears, which has now dried on her cheeks. She looked at the bit of orb attached to the wall, wondered to herself if it was still watching her. Taking no chances, she turned her back on it and

crouching over her bag she started to look through it to see what, if anything that she could possibly use to try and get her out.

The only thing that was of any use, but she was pretty sure that it would probably not work with her surroundings, was her mobile phone. She was too afraid to try it for the time being and returned it to her handbag. Not wanting to be apart from her handbag, Penny kept it across her shoulders.

Looking at her wristwatch, she saw that the time was almost 2 oclock. By now Richard would be wondering where she was. She had rung home before she had left Louisas to say that she was on her way. That had been at 10 oclock. She was now nearly two hours late in returning home. As she was thinking of Richard, she didnt notice the stringy thing pushing a tray towards her. Startled, she pushed herself backwards until she couldnt go any further. The tray stopped at her feet and the string slid away.

After several moments looking at the tray, Penny reached towards it. There was a glass with some white liquid in it and a plate of what looked like biscuits. She carefully dipped her index finger into the liquid and with a drop hanging from the finger she slowly brought this to her nose, there was no smell attached to it, so she thought, well here goes lets have a taste. Very gingerly she put the small drop on her tongue. She was so relieved after tasting it to find that the liquid was milk. Surely then whoever had brought her here had to be human. But why? Penny settled back against the wall and slowly sipped at the milk. Her thoughts once again went back to Richard.

Back at home Richard looked at his watch for the umpteenth time. Where the bloody hell could she be. He decided to give Louisa a ring to see if Penny had delayed coming back for some reason. Even though he had spoken to her earlier that morning.

Hi Louisa, is everything OK, only Penny hasnt got back home yet and I was wondering if she had left later than planned? Richard tried not to sound too worried.

Penny left soon after she spoke to you. She didnt say that she would be stopping off anywhere, replied Penny.

Ive tried her mobile, but I dont seem to be able to pick up a signal. But knowing her, everything will be locked in the car boot. Some things are hard to stop doing if you have lived in main busy town, with loads of villains about. Well if she does ring you, can you please tell her to get in touch with me. I dont want to start a search party for her yet, especially it being a Sunday, everybody is out visiting their relatives! laughed Richard.

After saying good-bye, Richard sat outside, taking in the peace and quiet of the early Sunday afternoon. Gino and Palma had been taken out for an unexpected meal by their son Roberto. Richard had been working on the back of the house since returning from the morning shoot. He was now feeling a little tired and all too soon his eyes closed and he drifted off to sleep.

A short while later he woke up and glanced about wondering where he was. Still half asleep, he went back indoors, stretching as he went, as he had been sitting on the garden

bench and had aches and pains all over him. Once inside he looked up at the kitchen clock, the time now read 4.10pm. There was still no sign of Penny and he went to look at the answerphone to see if there had been any messages left while he had been sleeping. There were none.

Richard started to feel a little anxious as to the whereabouts of Penny. He decided that he would pop next door to see if Gino and Palma had returned. He would need to have a little help in how to start looking for her and who to telephone first to ask for help. Thank goodness they had come home. Knocking gently on the door, he heard Palma call for him to enter. Sitting down at the kitchen table and having been offered coffee, Richard began to tell them about Penny not arriving back home. Fortunately their son Roberto was still there and between lots of sign language and broken Italian he managed to get his story over. It was Roberto who straightaway went to the telephone to ring the local police, the carabinieri. The one sided conversation which could be heard seemed to go on forever. Finally Roberto put the receiver down and explained that there was nothing to be done until tomorrow morning. The carabinieri would then come to the house to take more details, that is if Penny was still missing. She may in the meantime have arrived back home.

Something just didnt seem right to Richard and after telling his friends what he thought, Richard said that he was going to start looking for her. Roberto said that he would come along with him, two pairs of eyes would be better than one, especially as Richard would be driving and he would have to concentrate on the road.

It was now a little passed 5.30pm, the day was still very light and hopefully would remain so for a few more hours yet. Taking the route they always took down to the autostrada at Pedaso, Roberto kept his eyes focused on the hedging. Passing through the small towns Roberto had Richard stopping, so that they could take a look around to see if Pennys car was parked up anywhere. There was never any sign though.

Surely by now we should have heard something, or seen something. Where on earth could she be. Richard gave out a long sigh and shaking his head followed Roberto back to the car.

Maybe she called out the breakdown people, suggested Roberto.

But just supposing she did, why cant I get hold of her on her mobile and I am sure that she would have rung me first. Penny has never done anything without asking me first. Just knowing her, well, its not right. I have a very deep creepy feeling that something terrible has happened. Richard sighed again.

Picking up the ticket for the autostrada, they set off in the direction of Ancona. Soon they came to the turnoff for the road to Louisas. I hope that Louisa is in. Maybe I should have rung her first. But what the heck, this is an emergency, to me it is anyway. Richard came to a stop outside Louisas and was lucky in find her in her front garden.

Not wanting to appear rude, but in an obvious state of worry, Richard asked once again what time had Penny left that morning. The answer was the same, 10 oclock. Richard

thanked Louisa and with a promise of keeping her informed, set off once again with Roberto.

This time, Richard kept his speed down, so that they could really take a good look around. Reaching the autostrada again, Richard kept in the right hand lane. No matter what was dawdling in front, or what went speeding by, they both kept a careful lookout.

Just before they come to the turnoff for Pedaso, Richard pointed ahead of him and stuttering said, look, just ahead, look theres her car. Oh for Petes sake, hurry up you heap of shit in front.

Calm down, we will be there any second. Roberto tried his best to make him slow down.

Pulling off, and parking the car right behind Pennys, Richard jumped out of the drivers seat. The car was empty and there was no sign of Penny. Shit, where is she. Roberto, just take a look at this will you, what do you make of it?

Peering closely at the passenger door handle Roberto tried to make out the mark which looked like the trail that a snail leaves behind it. I havent the foggiest idea what that is. It might be worth not touching anything and wait until we get the police out here.

OK, but first Im going to take a look along the hedgerow, maybe she pulled over to be sick or something. Most unusual if she did. But something strange has happened here.

Walking slowly along the verge, Richard prodded away with his foot, but finding nothing he returned to Roberto and let him take over to ring the police.

They seemed to stand around waiting for a long time, but when the police did arrive it was only a little over a quarter of an hour later.

Richard let Roberto do the talking, but with very little prompting, Richard was able to get his side of the story over. Richard pointed out the marks on the car and after taking a closer look, the officer in charge made a call out for further assistance.

Soon the area was cordoned off and Pennys car was taken away for examination by a specialist.

Tonight, as it is now getting darker, there is very little else that we can do. We will however leave a guard around the area and we will return tomorrow first thing. The chief officer handed Richard his card and told him that he would telephone him at 9 oclock in the morning.

Posts and cordoning off tape were placed all around the area and two officers were left in charge for the night.

Below ground it was a hive of activity. Across the opening to Pennys cell, a strobe of light stretched across it. More of the string things were snaking up and down the corridors outside. What could be going on Penny thought.

The strings were clearly agitated. She could hear strange shrieking noises.

As the strings came to the opening of the edging to the roadside, they whispered to each other in their high pitched shrieks. Back in the main enclosure, theirs sounds were being translated into human language. The old professor tapped away at his computer keyboard, rapidly calculating his next move. He couldnt risk taking any chances. He instructed his probes to seal off the openings.

As his orders were being carried out, one of the police officers who was left on duty, was having to take a leak. The toe of his boot was just inside one of the very thin openings, and as the probe ran its sealant across the opening, the officer cried out in alarm. The toe of his boot was slowly being squeezed tight.

The officers mate came running towards him. What the bloody hell are you doing? The officer who had his boot fast was struggling to get the boot off. It was sealed in so tightly, that he feared that he would loose his toes.

Hobbling back to the patrol car he radioed in and tried to explain what had just happened to him. Hey, what have you been drinking out there, too much Grappa? This isnt some sort of alien site, you know. The radio operator laughed.

Well, you just bloody well come out here and see for yourself. And when you do, bring me a pair of size 43 boots while youre at it. This was one job the young officer hated.

He didnt like guard duty at the best of times. He was more at home when he was patrolling around the local town. He knew that his uniform suited him and that it showed off his tanned and well muscled body. He pretended that he didnt notice when the girls all looked at him. But tonight, hopping about in only one boot, he just hoped that this wouldnt get out and make him look a fool.

As dawn broke through and the birds started their morning choruses, the relief team came to take over.

Any further developments since last night, the older of the two asked. Or was it only the one boot that was abducted, he tittered. By the way we have also brought you your new boots and to make sure that you dont lose another one, we have had them footcuffed.

You think you are so clever, just you wait and see what happens next. Maybe you might get stuck up to your neck. That would be a laugh. Shut your fat face up that would.

An hour later the full investigating team arrived. Inspector Carbone asked straight away to be taken to where the young officer had lost his boot the night before.

Putting on protective gloves, Inspector Carbone knelt close to the boot. Sure enough it was stuck solid. Using a sharp knife, the inspector sliced away at the surrounding soil. Luigi, bring me a trowel and some sample bags over. This is mighty peculiar.

As the inspectors orders were being carried out, a slight tremor was felt along the ridge. Did anyone else feel that, the inspector looked around at his crew.

Sir, just a little over here. The soil seemed to collapse in a bit. Want me to dig around some here.

Slowly and very carefully, was the inspectors reply. We don't know what we are up against here.

It was Chief Officer Cabrelli who had made the call personally to Inspector Carbone the previous evening. They had both been involved with the other missing females. He had seen the anxiety on the faces of the families of the others who were missing and had felt their deep sorrow. As he told Inspector Carbone, this one seemed to be different. The woman who had gone missing, had only been missing for a few hours. It was only through the husband, who had retraced is wifes last possible movements, that the search had been started so quickly. That and the slime mark left on the car. It had been the extensive search of the car which had revealed more of the trails. It had all been sent off to the laboratory for analysis. So far nothing had been identified. They were completely flummoxed by it. Graziella, the senior laboratory technician was renowned for her work. She never let go once she was given something to track down.

Looking more like a dainty doll with her large blue eyes and long curly ebony hair, noone could really envisage her with large plastic goggles on her pretty face and with a long white coat on, none of which came in her size and seemed to drown her slim body.

Marco, come quickly. What do you see when I put the flame closer: Slowly, Graziella turned the flame to the slide which held a spec of the slime. As the flame crept closer to the slime, it slid itself away.

My God, it appears to be alive. Try two flames coming in together. As they did, the slime wriggled about, as if it was looking for a place to escape.

I must call this through to Inspector Carbone. It may give them a little to go on until we have analysed this thing more thoroughly.

Graziella peeled off the surgical gloves and quickly tapped in the inspectors private number. The phone rang and rang, and just as Graziella was about to hang up, the inspector gruffly answered the phone, but on hearing her, he became more pleasant.

Hope you have some good news for me Graziella. But there again I may have something else for you to test your brain with.

He went on to tell her about the tremor and after digging around had found more of the slime. This though looked as though it had been frozen. It had been solid and had taken quite a few raps with a small picket for it to be cracked.

Try putting a flame to it and tell me what happens. Graziella waited silently on the other end of the telephone.

Christ Graziella, what the hell is it. I just flicked my lighter at it and the damned thing practically jumped away. The inspector didnt like it when he thought he was being got at. But he should have known , Graziella wasnt someone who played practical jokes.

Good she replied. The boot, is it still stuck in the ground? Try using your lighter or heat up a blade and slide it round the boot and then call me back. Im just going to try something else.

And on saying that the inspector was left holding his telephone with only the dial tone to be heard.

He instructed one of his men to do what Graziella had asked and he went to sit in his car. Lighting one of the small cigarillos, which were a favourite smoke of his, he pondered over what was happening out on this quiet stretch of road. Most of the traffic slowed down when nearing the site and he saw inquisitive eyes as they searched along the scene.

Inspector, quickly you must come and see this. No one will believe me. The young officer led him to where the boot, which until only a few moments ago had been completely stuck. The boot could now be moved, ever so slightly, but there was movement. Another lighter, its flame flickering in the light breeze, slowly made its way towards the boot again. Now even more of the boot came free.

Inspector Carbone waited no longer. He had seen enough. Almost running back to his

car, he put a call through to the station requesting hot cutting gear to be brought out immediately to the site. He was hoping that his hunch was right. Maybe he could even save the missing woman called Penny.

His next call was to Graziella to see if she had been able to come up with anything else.

After giving her all the latest news, he waited for her response.

Just what I thought. This substance has some sort of intelligence. We put a flame to either side of it, next moment it had split itself in two and moved in the opposite direction. Are you going to be staying at the site? Good, Im going to come down there to see this for myself. See you in half on hour.

After replacing her receiver, Graziella picked up the few things which she knew that she would need and checking that she had her car keys, she set off to Pedaso.

Soon Graziella was turning onto the hard should where all the activity was. Inspector Carbones latest equipment had also just arrived and was being set up. Men in protective clothing were about ready to begin their work. Graziella took a look about and examined the spot by the boot. The movement was now clearly visible when it was being pulled.

Chief Officer Cabrelli also arrived at the scene. And after being brought up to date with everything, he decided to put a call through to Signor Roberto Maravalli, the friend of the

missing woman, instead of telephoning the husband Richard Evans. The revelations from the mornings findings would be far too difficult to try and tell Signor Evans.

Buon giorno Signor Maravalli, this is Chief Officer Cabrelli. I am out at the site at the moment and I have just been briefed on the findings so far. The reason for me telephoning you and not Signor Evans, is that I may find this a little hard to put into words to him. Let me please stress that we have not as yet found Signora Evans, so that may be a little reassuring. But our further investigations to the slime which you showed to us, has brought several things to light. We have been making extensive searches along the hedgerow and are now just starting up with some heavier working materials to help lift up the grass. We believe that this may lead to some sort of underground chamber. Hopefully our findings will include your missing friend. We may be here for quite some time, but I will keep on calling you with more updates as soon as I receive them. Please pass my deepest thoughts on to Signor Evans, and give him my assurance that everything is being done to find his wife.

Chief Office Cabrelli broke the connection and returned to where all the activity was. The heated metal blade had been inserted at the edge of the partially movable boot. The sealant seemed to move rapidly away from the heat and soon with the help of the spades, an opening was clearly visible.

Inspector Carbone called out for the heavier digging machine to be brought forwards. Once in place the soil was quickly dug away. The revelations were astonishing. There was indeed an underground chamber. The sides of which glistened in the bright light,

which was being directed into it. The feel of the sides was like touching silk, cool but yet warm. Not knowing what was ahead of them, special trained officers were sent for.

Down below, still in his sealed cell, the old professor was fighting hard to keep his secret safe. But it was becoming clear to him that he would soon be caught. He had built the chamber, using materials made from the findings of a possible UFO. People had scoffed of his idea of men from outer space, crash landing their craft, out in one of the many hills surrounding the area. Professor Bianco used much of the universitys equipment to make the discovery. But once he himself had been discovered, he found that he had to go into hiding, taking with him the equipment and computers on which he had saved all his data.

He had already made a good start on his new laboratory when he had had to make it his new permanent home. At first he found it quite startling, living in an area that was both smooth and sensual. Also no matter how loud you shouted, the noise level was ever so quiet, as though it had been whispered. Here he could now continue with his other project. Another of which had been frowned upon by the high and mighty of the university hierarchy. He had been using a new formula, which combined fluid and light. He had reached a stage where the probes, as he called them, were able to split into thousands of separate pieces. Also when they came into contact with each other again, they were able to join up again, without any effort. It was like watching two small pools merging together to become one.

Using key words, the professor was also able to make them understand instructions. The

probes responded by using a series of peeping noises, rather like someone standing on a squeaky toy. All this was working fine, until he noticed that there was a foreign substance, which had attached itself to the main probe. This must have been picked up when the probes were splitting and then rejoining.

He had started to send his probes outside for trial runs to collect things for him. First of all for any flowers or grasses. He wanted to see how they would bring these items back to him. They were really clever in doing this. They were able to slice through the stem of the flower and seemed to cauterise the area, where they had severed it. Seeing this, he then wondered if they would be able to bring back fluids. Many people stopped along the roadside, either to stretch their legs from driving or to stop and have a drink or a sandwich.

At first the probes were quick to snatch up a small drink. They pierced the container and as if using themselves as a straw, drew in the drink, and afterwards sealed the small hole. Many times the unsuspecting supplier of the drink, never realised that their drink had been taken.

Sometime, around the time when the professor had realised about the mutation in the probe, the probes themselves had started to act alone. Foraging, usually at night, but then getting more confident about not being caught, they started out during the day. The professor was finding it more and more difficult in controlling them. They had even sealed off his doorway. Fortunately he was not worried about provisions, as he had stock piled these to last him for a couple of years.

His main concern was trying to solve the problem of the mutation. If he could find the answer to that, then hopefully he would be able to put everything right again.

Up at the roadside the specially dressed officers were now making their way through the tunnel. They each carried a thermal heated rod, just in case they came across any of the hardened slime, they would be able to cut their way in. They had not gone far, when the officer stopped. He pointed to the right of him and communicating through the microphones attached to them he said, look inside, to the far right of the room in the corner, it looks to me like a bundle of cloths. Maybe a human.

The other officer peered over his colleagues shoulder and replied, Maybe we should take a closer look. Pushing forwards they hit a barrier, even though they couldnt see anything, something was blocking their entrance. Using one of the heated rods the leading officer slowly drew the rod around the doorway. As the rod neared the bottom of the doorway, a slight change of tone in the air around them was discerned. The officer was also able to enter the room. Both of them moving slowly forwards, they headed in the same direction of the bundle of clothes. The one nearest knelt down. Slowly he peeled away the cloth from the top. Wisps of hair floated upwards as the cloth came away and underneath it revealed a female head.

The body looked as though it had been there for several weeks. With the dry atmosphere, the body had not started to really decay, but looked as though it had been drained. Not being medics, they decided to call up for a stretcher to have this taken away and to ask if

they were to continue with the search.

Of course we need you to carry on. I need to know immediately if you find Signora Evans. I will send down more men to bring up any evidence you find. Inspector Carbone bellowed down the microphone. He was not used to having to take a back seat, preferring to be on the front line himself.

Muttering to himself, he made up his mind that he would go down and see for himself what was down there. No use hanging around here, I might as well make myself useful and put on a suit and join them. After making this decision, it was not long before Inspector Carbone was entering the tunnel. He noticed at once the continuous humming sound. It sounded like the trailing note from a triangle when it has been played. Although they had not tested the air, the inspector took the risk and raised the visor from his suit and at the same time turned off his air supply. Not taking his hand away from the air valve, Inspector Carbone drew in his first breath. Exhaling slowly and with no alteration to his breathing pattern or heartbeat, he took a further breath. Making a call out to the control, where he knew that Gabriella was waiting, he started to give them an indepth description of what was there. The walls are silky to touch, with a slight warmth to them. I have pushed back my visor, I know the air hasnt been tested yet, but I can tell you that it is breathable. I am having no problems in breathing and my pulse rate appears normal. I am now in the room where the first body is, I have asked the stretcher bearers to hold off until I can give you details of how the body is lying. I know that this is being photographed, but my eyes may be able to tell us more. Taking a deep breath the inspector continued. The body is lying on its back. I am now peeling back the cover

some more. It is for definite a female. Her body looks as though it has collapsed inwards. With my visor off, I can detect no smell, even though the body may have been here for some time. The medics are now going to bring the body up. Please have this taken away for a full forensic. Gabriella, I dont know if you want to stay on site or go and find out what has happened to this poor unfortunate girl. She only looks about 18 or 19 years old.

Looking about the room, the inspector took measurements. It appeared to be a complete square, 7 foot all over. There were no joins either, just smooth panels. Stepping back out into the corridor, the inspector walked on further. As he had heard over the microphone, other bodies had been found. He approached each room and walking slowly to where the covered body lay, he gave out further descriptions of what he saw. As he entered and approached the fourth body, he noticed something slightly different to the others. This one lay in a foetal position. It also appeared to be intact. No deflation was apparent. Maybe this one had only recently passed away.

Inspector Carbone started to wheeze. His breathing became ragged and when he breathed in he felt a tightness in his chest. Oh God, have I been too foolish and just walked about here without any care. But then he realised something else. There was a smell in the room. Something that all the other rooms hadnt had. This was what was causing his breathing problems.

Wiping his forehead on his isolation suit, he reported his new findings. Please send Gabriella this new information and have this body sent directly to her. She may be able

to come up with why these bodies differ.

As he came out of the room, he almost collided with one of the initial officers who had been sent in first. Ah, Inspector Carbone, please come quickly. We think we may have found Signora Evans. She is alive. She is very very confused and will not come out of the corner where we found her.

Inspector Carbone asked the two officers to stay outside for the time being. He entered the room alone. After settling himself on the floor close by to the Signora the inspector introduced himself.

My name is Inspector Carbone, my first name is Marco. I hope that I am assuming correctly that you are Signora Penny Evans. If I am right, please nod if you do not wish to speak to me. I hope that you can understand my English. It has been a long time since I have had to speak in English. My late wife was English, she was born in a small seaside town in Cornwall. The name of which I cannot remember. You have obviously been very brave and no doubt somewhat very frightened by what has happened to you. Your husband, Richard, didnt wait around. He set off straight away on the search for you. I must thank him personally, as we have been under a lot of pressure with these disappearances. Signora, are you ready to come with me and we can get your husband out to you. Good. Take it very slowly, do not be afraid, Inspector Carbone gently helped Penny to her feet. She still hadnt said a word. Only tiny gasps were heard from her.

Leading the way, Inspector Carbone guided her to the way out. Once outside and in the sunshine, Pennys nerve seemed to break. Falling to her knees, Penny sobbed into her hands. After several moments she calmed down and looking up into the Inspectors eyes, she gave him the first smile that she thought she would never do again. Thank you. Thank you, she repeated. When I was dragged down there, I never thought I would see anyone again. Although those things never hurt me, it was the feeling which came from them, a deep loathing of humans, but also a feeling that they needed to know more about us. Drinks were brought into the room for me. But the other most awful thing was the constant light. It could be made dimmer, but not nearly enough for you to relax.

Try to relax now signora Evans. We are taking you to the hospital in Ascoli Piceno. There your husband will be waiting for you. Later when you have been checked, we can then carry on with our talk. Inspector Carbone handed Penny over to the waiting ambulance staff. Hands clasped behind his back, he returned to the underground chambers.

Sir, please come this way. The young officer led the way to the far end of the chambers. We thought that this was just a wall, but it was our sniffer dog which lead us to a very tiny gap at the bottom corner. This had been sealed from the other side. When we got through this is what we found.

Stepping to one side the young officer allowed Inspector Carbone to carry on past. Once inside the room the Inspector slowly scanned all around him. Always within his sight as he looked around, was the bound figure in the centre of the room. The rest of the room

was bare. Centred, was a large work bench with computers and printouts. But it was the figure, which kept his gaze the most. Clearly a male figure, it was covered in the string like substance, which gleamed in the bright lights, and which really did look like snail trials.

Has anyone tried to get this stuff off him. Obviously we do not want to burn it like we have done on the doorways and such. Let us try using cutters.

One of the men started using small wire cutters. They went through the strings with ease.

Sir, this stuff is so unlike all the others, where it seemed to run away from you. His looks as if it is dead, the officer was bagging up everything which he had cut away.

Inspector Carbone called for further men to come and take away all the computer equipment. Let us hope that this will be able to tell us more of what has been going on here.

The last of the string like stuff was finally cut away. The look on the face of the old professor was one of sheer terror. Even in death you could feel the pressure that he must have been under, when his airways had been blocked by the probes. They had forced his mouth open and had filed it up with the sealant. His nostrils had also been sealed to cut off his air supply. His eyes had been kept open so that he could see what was being done to him.

This is terrible, just terrible. But where have all the live probes gone. The Inspector was left with no further ideas or clues. Would what was in the computer tell them the answer. He couldnt even hazard a guess at this stage. Taking a last look around the now empty room, Inspector Carbone made his way out for the last time.

But was it really the end.

The End

Megans Comeback

By

Greta Ann Hughes

Megans Come Back

As Megan gazed through the window, she watched the rain fall. It had been raining all morning and made her heart feel heavier than it should. She sighed deeply and on looking out once again, she saw that the clouds were parting and that the sun was starting to peep out. Just then a rainbow formed and the end of it appeared to be at the gate at the bottom of her garden. On seeing this it made her feel a little happier and she decided to go for a walk through the woods, which were just beyond her garden.

After putting on some sneakers and a waterproof jacket, Megan closed her door and set off. The air seemed full of different smells, which the rain had brought out. The grass, which had been cut the day before, still held its fresh mown scent. The flowers from the hawthorn and the apple blossom trees, sent their own sweet aroma into the air. Megan had kept herself to herself for the past few weeks, since the sudden death of her husband. Matthew had been the life and soul of any party. His fine antique shop in the main town was always busy. He bought and sold all over the continent and was also on the local town peoples committee. His shop was currently being run by his ever faithful and competent assistant, Freddy. Freddy had been at the shop since leaving college at 18. Now ten years on, he could cope under any situation, as he had been left in charge many times in the past, when Matthew had gone away to the numerous antique fairs. Sometimes he also went along and had enjoyed the bargaining of the items on auction.

As Megan carried on with her walk, she collected some of the wild flowers, these would add a little colour in her country kitchen. She thought about the shop and what she

should do about it. Everything had been left to her, with only one other relative on Megans side, there had been no trouble in settling the estate. It was very rare that she went to the shop and wasnt really looking forward to seeing the staff in there. On the occasion that she had called in, they were all smiles, but underneath this she could detect a feeling that they thought that she was useless. This was something that she had grown used to. She had been born to quite wealthy parents and had had no real need to find any employment after she had left university. At the university she had studied for accountancy. She had always enjoyed working with figures and could always solve any intricate math equation which was given to her. She supposed she could pop in and see if there was anything that she could help out at in the accounts department, especially now that she had seen the bank statements. On thinking of this she decided that tomorrow would be a good day to start. Megan finished off her walk and returned home feeling much happier now that she had set herself a task to do.

Next morning Megan rose early and after having made herself a light breakfast, she then set off to the antique shop. The drive there was only a short one and she parked her car outside of the shop. Opening the door to the shop, the bell tinkled to announce the arrival of someone. Entering she saw a face peep round the corner and quickly disappear again. No doubt her arrival was now being relayed to everyone. As she looked about at the fine antiques on display, she realised how much she must have missed out on all these years that she had stayed at home being a housewife. She picked up the newly printed brochure and browsed through it. Everything was in its own division, with all the prices detailed discreetly at the back. This was a shop who catered for the type of client who rarely looked at the cost of anything. They bought simply for the name or the beauty of

the piece.

Eventually Freddy emerged from the back of the shop. His smile she noticed was somewhat forced, as if he was dealing with someone beneath him and not for who she was. Especially now that she was the owner. Good morning Freddy and how are you today? Megan asked him.

Er, Im fine, simply fine. May I ask what has brought you down this way today? Freddy enquired.

Well I thought it was about time that I looked in on you all and to see if there is anything that I can help out with. Looking through this brochure has made me realise that there are a lot of beautiful things which pass through here. Megan smiled sweetly at him, hoping that she was giving him something of which to think about.

As you can imagine, this is not something that you can just walk into. A lot of knowledge in what you are buying or selling is needed, so as not to be conned. There are a lot of unscrupulous people out there, just waiting to get hold of a lot of these items and if you hesitate in the slightest, they will trip you up so fast. Freddy was trying to put her off she was sure. But now that Megan was in the door, there would be no turning back.

After some small chit-chat with Freddy, she wound her way through to the back of the shop and up the stairs to the offices above. All was spic and span up here as well. The jangling of the telephone and the rapid clicking of the keys being tapped on the

computers, were the only sounds to be heard. Everyone spoke in quite tones, giving an atmosphere of respect to what they were dealing in. After smiling at the staff, she made her way to the accountants office, Bert Bingham. Bert had been with them for about 5 years. He had come well recommended from an auctioneers office in the city. Megan had only met him on one or two occasions, usually when they had the Christmas party. He was a small man, with eyes which darted about, never looking at you, but always looking over your shoulder or at the floor. Megan had said that he looked a little shifty, as she always looked people in the eye when speaking to them. She always felt that this looked more sincere and honest.

Hello Bert, I thought that I would look in on everyone and at the same time see if there is anything that I can help out with. Megan still kept the pleasant smile on her face.

Bert coughed nervously and looking this way and that said, Everything is under control. I am not sure what you would be able to do, for as you know this is a specialists field and someone with little knowledge, well, they could possibly do more harm than good. Bert shuffled about his office.

I am fully qualified in accountancy, perhaps some of the ledger entries, those that are boring to some people, I could easily do. Also, I really do need to do something. For sitting at home is no good. Megan really did want to try and find out if there was something amiss here. After Matthew's death, Megan had been given copies of bank statements and on seeing these, there looked as if there should have been more in the account. Matthew had told her of some of the deals that he had recently completed and

the figures that he had quoted had made her raise her eyebrows. So she was a little bit suspicious and had at last decided to check up on this.

OK then, I do have two of the clerks off at the moment, one of whom I dont know when will be coming back, as she has had a nasty accident and is currently in hospital. I will show you around and any of the staff will be able to show you where things are. All work is done on the computer, you do know how to use these. Of course, silly of me. And so Bert finally showed Megan around the office and where the ledgers were kept. Then leaving her with the invoicing to start off with, Bert hesitantly went back to his own office.

Megan quickly picked up the way they worked and after doing the few invoices, she started to browse through the accounts set up. There were some accounts that the names rang a bell with her, the ones that Matthew had spoken about from time to time. As she started to check up on the paper files, she started to notice some discrepancies. Printing off what she could, she set up a personal file for herself and anything which she thought was a bit suspicious, she added to this file for her to take back home to read through more carefully.

Megan came and went to the office at the times that she chose. They soon started to find out that she wasnt the featherbrain that she seemed to come across as. Bert seemed as fidgety as ever, as well as Freddy, who, whenever she arrived at the shop, was always moving or straightening the displays. He seldom seemed to relax. Now what could have made these people react this way, Megan wondered.

It was after one particular morning, when Megan had been so engrossed in tracking back a rather seedy sounding company, that she decided that what she really needed was to look deeper into Berts office. For she was sure that there were books in there, that were not necessarily for the common use for all. Stretching out and yawning widely, Megan said that she would finish off for the day. She had the full set of keys which had been Matthews and she knew the security alarm number and so later on that evening she made her way back to the shop for a closer look at what she thought could be fraudulent.

Making sure that the front door was secure, she made her way upstairs. Letting herself into Berts office, she switched on the lights. His office was in a far corner, which had no windows to it and so no lights would be seen from outside. Why she thought of this, she couldnt say, as the business was hers and she could be there at any time that she pleased.

After looking through the filing cabinets, which she had keys for, she couldnt find anything amiss. It was only when she found a small cabinet at the side of his desk, and couldnt gain access to it, that she started to wonder what could be inside. She searched all over his desk. Feeling like a spy, she got on her hands and knees and looked under the desk. There she found a key taped to the back of the desk. Removing this carefully, so as not to make the tape look too rumpled, she inserted the key into the desk. Some hours later, Megan glanced up and wearily rubbed at her tired eyes. Her suspicions had been right. Double entries and dealings done on the side, were neatly written down in Berts own handwriting. Megan spent the next hour photocopying every little piece of paper that she could find in there.

Securing the offices up, Megan made her way back home. After resting for a couple of hours, she sat herself at her kitchen table and pondered her next move. She knew that she needed advice on what to do next, but who to turn to was the question. As she only went in to the office at the times that she chose to work, there was no need for her to ring in. Megan decided to go into the main town to see the police there. The police station in the village was more like your next door neighbour, looking for a lost cat or some other small thing was probably the hardest work that they were used to. Also you could never be quite sure if your private conversations would be repeated.

After speaking to Detective Watson, it was up to her what her next step would be. As far as he could see at the moment, she had a good case for fraud and to win the case.

Numbly Megan nodded her head. Yes, there has been too much lost and for this to carry on I would be giving him a go ahead to carry on stealing. My husband put all his effort and his time in making the antique shop what it is today. I would like it to carry on with his good name.

Unannounced, Megan and the police arrived at the shop. They made their way directly to Berts office, while the constables watched over the other members of staff. Detective Watson said, It has been suggested that there has been fraud committed on these premises and we have a warrant to search your office. I would be obliged if you would remain in the office while this is carried out.

With a nod from the detective, the search commenced. All papers were collected

together and then boxed and carried out to the waiting police van. Bert was taken along to the station for questioning.

During the next couple of months, Megan took over the running of the accounts. Berts office felt tainted, Megan thought, so most of the work she carried out at home. The office spaces she was going to have re-designed and a new open fronted office, so as nothing underhand could ever happen again. Along with Bert, his secretary was also later arrested. She had sorted out pieces of art which she thought would not be missed. They had been able to carry on with this scheme for the past three years. Many hundreds of thousands of pounds had been placed in a bank off shore. The proceeds of which were then split between them from time to time.

At the trial it was said that they had thought that Matthew had seemed like a pompous money hoarder and why should he have so much. So they decided that some of the deals should go their way. It also came out at the trial that Bert had forged his letters of reference. The large antique dealer in the city had never heard of Bert Bingham and was astonished that their name could have been used in this way of introduction.

Bert had a string of convictions, going back many years. He had started off with petty thieving, then he had been found guilty and given a long prison sentence for the hijacking of a transit load of antiques, which had been bound for Canada to a multimillionaire business man, who had emigrated there. The hi-jacking had gone wrong and the driver had been left paralysed. He had managed to get an early release, as he said that he had been converted and that he was truly sorry for his crimes. In prison he could

always be found with a bible in one hand and reciting psalms and passages wherever he went.

As soon as he was released, the bible was forgotten and he picked up from where he had left. This time he decided to try something a little different and had managed to secure himself the post at Matthews antiques shop.

Bert Bingham was given a 12 year prison sentence, with the judge saying that there should be no allowance for Bert to be given any early release this time. Berts secretary was given a 3 year sentence, but would probably be released after 12 months, with this being her first offence.

Megan couldnt believe what had been said at the trial. Especially Diane, as she was on a very good salary and received all the benefits that were given to all employees. Everyone at the antiques shop were very well paid. Matthew gave them excellent bonuses during the year, along with the small Spanish villa, which any of them could holiday at, at no expense. Megan cried. Perhaps if Matthew hadnt been so generous, but who could say. It was now up to Megan to carry on with the antique shop. The remaining staff had been very supportive and with them she would be able to put this behind her and hopefully succeed.

A new Monday morning arrived and they were all gathered together in the main office. Megan stood amongst them and said that she was very grateful for all the support that they had given her and thanked them all individually. Let us all now put this unsavoury

business behind us and carry on with getting more business in here. The staff applauded her and they settled down to the days work.

During one lunch break, which she now tended to spend with the girls in the office, she learnt that Freddy had had a crush on her. He never seemed to have a girlfriend and once one of the other girls in the office had asked him what he did outside of work. His faced had blushed right through to the top of his head and he stuttered that his main hobby was reading. He found girls to be rather daunting and a scary experience. He was the youngest in a family of six, all of the others being female and he had been bullied by them since his birth he said.

Now that Megan was there all the time, she had given over to Freddy the full responsibility of attending antique fairs and for the buying of the items at auction. She also attended these auctions with him, but let him have the say about whether or not an item would be of value to them. He seemed to have matured during this time and he didnt fumble around as much as he used to. Perhaps this new responsibility was good for him and maybe at their next Christmas party they could find a partner for him. Megans come back was looking good. Her time was now taken up to the full and her nights rarely felt empty. She normally took home the catalogues and would draw up new designs for the advertising campaigns which they were now doing. All this she would do at her desk at home, looking up at regular intervals at her favourite photograph of Matthew and knowing that he would be proud of her. The End

My Time To Live

By

Greta Ann Hughes

My Time to Live

From her earliest memory Maureen had been taken for granted. When only a child she had had to help out at home, many times all alone. Her mother had brought her up on her own, after her father had died when she was only a baby. But Maureens mother thought of it as a curse and refused any help from the other neighbours or from her own family. He has gone and left me with this child, so it must be a sign that I have to carry on and bear the burden and the grief. Her mother had been such a strict churchgoer and believed that any misgivings dealt to a person, that it was a test of strength being delivered to see how strong of faith you were.

Giving little notice of the tiny child, she carried on until one day when Maureen was just 10 years old, she collapsed out in the back garden, when hanging out the washing. With the last bit of strength she had, she called out to Maureen, come quickly child, help me indoors and then you must fetch the doctor. Having said this she leaned her weight onto the small thin frame of her daughter and hobbled into the front room.

Maureen dashed about, putting up her mothers feet and getting a damp cloth, she placed this on her mothers head. She quickly took down the bunch of keys hanging by the front door and ran as fast as she could to the doctors house.

This being in a very quiet little village, the doctor had kept up the old ways of having his surgery at his house. Although he was a young doctor, he didnt want to spoil the way

the village had worked for the previous doctors. He had had the house made larger, extending the house out at the back and making more of the small summer-house at the bottom of the large garden.

Maureen stumbled through the old heavy door and out of breath shouted for the doctor. No one was about in the reception area and she was getting quite frantic about having left her mother just lying on the sofa.

Young doctor Henderson appeared, now what is all this noise about young lady. Take it easy and tell me slowly what is wrong.

Paul Henderson had a very boyish look to him, which also made him very popular with all the ladies, be they young or old. After listening to the tale of little Maureens mother, he soon picked up his doctors' bag and taking Maureens hand he gently guided her out and into his car.

The drive was only a short one and they were soon inside the house and into the front room. Her mother lay there, just as she had left her, but by the very slight movement of her chest, it showed that she was still breathing.

Doctor Henderson took out his stethoscope and after seeing the frightened look on Maureens face, he asked her to go and make them all a cup of tea. This was really just to get her out of the room so that she neednt see anymore.

Doctor Henderson resumed his examination, he wanted to make sure that his findings were right. Afterwards he rang through for an ambulance to take Mrs Pilkington to the hospital in the main town.

Come here Maureen, your mother is going to be alright, but she needs to take things much more easier than she has been doing. I am sending her to the hospital for a few tests. Can you go and stay with a relative or a friend? Doctor Henderson smiled sweetly at Maureen. In between choked sobs Maureen said that she would probably be OK at her aunt Mauds. Your mother doesnt want to go the hospital, but I have told her that it is for the best. She wont be in for long, but she does need some rest.

Maureen quickly made up a small case with night clothes and toiletries for her mother. Mrs Pilkington none too gently slapped away the doctors hand and beckoned for Maureen to come closer. Dont you be making yourself a nuisance at your aunt Mauds. Make sure that you come here after school to keep the house free of dust and only then can you go to aunt Mauds. Also you keep up with your homework. I dont want you lagging behind with your grades. You may think that your brain is clever and will get you through everything, but mark my words child, a lazy brain will soon shut down and wont work.

Soon the ambulance arrived and took Mrs Pilkington away. After making sure that Maureen would be alright, Doctor Henderson waved goodbye and left her standing alone on the doorstep. Closing the door gently, Maureen made her way into the kitchen to clear up the few dishes which had been used for breakfast. This would be the beginning of her

many years of confined housework, which would see her through all her teenage years and her young adult life, until she reached her forties.

Maureen was a very bright child, she met all her grades and was given the chance to go to university. When she asked her mother whether she could go, she was told very bluntly, No. I dont know where you think that your fancy education will lead you, but you are needed here. Not gallivanting off and staying up all night at parties. Her mother kept her a virtual prisoner. Maureen had very few friends, and those that she did have, had never once been invited back to Maureens for coffee or to go over and do their homework together. Each time one of them asked her, she always replied with the same, Im sorry, but my mother is ill and even the faintest of noises can upset her. This was always said with her head hanging down, so that no one could see the tears, which always came so close to falling down her cheeks.

Maureen found herself a job very quickly after leaving school. She started at the local town branch of a leading building society. She soon gained confidence in dealing with all the customers and over the next 20 years there she soon climbed the ladder to become branch manager. But also during all this time, she also worked at home. Keeping house and at the beck and call of her ever ailing mother. Sometimes, late at night, when sleep wouldnt come, she thought of ways of escaping her life there. If only her mother would go into the nursing home. There were people there trained to do everything to help her mother, but she refused even to give this idea one little thought. You are my daughter, I gave you life, it is your duty to take care of me. Now look what you have done with you uncaring way of speaking to me. I can hardly catch of my breath, bring me my oxygen

mask. Dont be slow girl, or are you wishing me dead. Her mother grasped the mask to her mouth and greedily sucked in the air. Thats better now. Off you go and finish up in the kitchen before locking up for the night.

After another glance at her mother, Maureen made her way down the steep stairs and quietly, so as not to annoy her mother nay further, put the rest of the clean dishes away.

Making herself a fresh cup of tea to take up to bed with her, she turned off the downstairs lights and went up the stairs to her room. Swiftly she changed into her nightdress and turning on the small lamp set at the side of her desk, she switched on her computer. This was the best thing she had bought for herself. Her life had been made much more endurable through this machine. She had completed many home courses and had received many certificates in business studies, technology and had taken on a couple of language courses. These had been the most difficult as she had no one to test her pronunciation on. Everything had been done either through the computer or sent on a tape by post. But with all her time spent at home, she had little else to do, so she had made every effort to pass these tests. In the end she had been awarded and also received best student award.

One night as she came home, a little later than usual as they had been carrying out the year-end audits, she noticed straightaway that the light was not showing in the window of her mothers bedroom. Getting quite panicky, Maureen dropped her keys and after fumbling around on the darkened doorstep, she finally got hold of her keys again. This time she carefully put her key into the lock and turned it. Flicking the switch for the hall

light she hurried up the stairs. Pausing just enough to catch her breath, she opened the bedroom door. Peering round the doorframe she glanced at the bed. Her mother lay there, her eyes open wide, staring at the ceiling. Tiptoeing, so as not to make a sound, but why she didnt know, she made her way to the bed. Reaching out and touching her mothers hand, she then knew for sure that she was no longer alive. Her hand was frozen and very stiff.

As she had done many many years before, she ran down to the doctors surgery. The young Doctor Henderson, was now the much older Doctor Henderson. Almost at retirement age, he still ran his practice as he always had. Apart from having to have all his patients listed on a computer, this was the only change he had had to make. Slow down Maureen. I take it from your out of breath condition that you have run all the way here. No doubt at another panic attack from your mother. Mrs Pilkington had become quite well know in the village, especially the way she treated her daughter. I think this time doctor, that I am too late. I am sure that she has died during the day, and I wasnt there to help her. Maureens sobs became much more louder and she sounded very scared. Doctor Henderson called for his receptionist to take her into the back and to get her a cup of tea. Best thing for you dear, Sheila the receptionist said, as she gently guided her to the back of the house. Meanwhile Doctor Henderson had taken the door key from Maureen and was now making his way out of the front door of his surgery. As Doctor Henderson walked up the short pathway to the front door of Mrs Pilkingtons, he couldnt help but notice a sort of peace had fallen over the house. Shaking his head as if to clear his view, he opened up the front door. Wiping his feet on the Welcome Home mat, he headed for the stairway. Taking the stairs two at a time, he soon reached the top

and turned towards Mrs Pilkingtons room. The door was open and the light from the street lamp directly outside of the large bedroom window. Doctor Henderson made a quick examination and then called for the ambulance service. His next call was to the surgery, where he left a message with Sheila to confirm that indeed Mrs Pilkington had passed away. He also thought to say that he was sure that she had not suffered and for this information to be passed on to Maureen.

The day of the funeral came around and Maureen had made sure that everything was straightened and that enough refreshments for those wishing to call back at the house after the church service. Her mother was to be laid to rest with her own parents. Hopefully there she would truly be at peace.

Maureen had been overwhelmed by the many kind words from all of the neighbours, even those that she only had a nodding acquaintance with. They all were of the same mind, you must now do what you have always wanted to do. To travel and to put to use the languages she had learnt. Why else should she have studied so hard and for so long. It did take Maureen many more months before she could pluck up the courage to set off on an adventure. Carefully going over the international job vacancies web pages she found on her computer, she decided to try for a three month stay and work programme based in Venice. A glorious city well renowned for its beautiful square, its glassware and most of all the romantic gondolas on the grand canal.

With a tearful good-bye to all at the building society, she flew off for her first taste of excitement. At 42 years of age she was wondering if she had made a mistake. What

could she have been thing about when she handed in her notice to fly off, to end up doing a job as a tour guide. She thought to herself that her mother must be having a very good laugh at her. As the plane landed and everyone started towards the exit door, Maureen felt panic rising. On unsteady legs she made her way through customs and was taken aback when she noticed a sign being held aloft with her name on it.

Ah signorina Pilkington, welcome to Venice. Please, if you will follow me the short way to where my car is parked. My name is Claudia Spinetti, you will be staying at my apartment for your say here. Unless of course you wish to find something for yourself. Claudias smile and happy go lucky way made Maureen feel very welcome. At once she said that she would consider it to be an honour to remain with Claudia. Claudias apartment was in the centre of Venice, further in from the Grand Canal, along one of the many side canals. After parking the car they took one of the water buses into the main square St Marks. All of Maureens luggage had been sent on the week before, so carrying only the small hand luggage case, they made their way through the heavy throng of visitors, down the narrow canal streets to Claudias apartment. This was Maureens first time in the city and the magnificent view of the square had quite taken her breath away. Dont you get lost for words when taking a touring party round, asked Maureen when they arrived at Claudias doorway. Sometimes your words tend to get rather drawn out, as if searching your memory for something which you know should be straightforward. I have been here for three years now and I still keep on finding more and more fascinating buildings to look at. Of course, you do have to stick to the main topics of the tourist guide, but sometimes there can be an interest from a separate source to be given a more personal tour. These I like the best, because then you can really show off the hidden

gems that you have found.

When Claudia spoke of Venice, her whole face lit up with the wonder of the city. Maureens luggage was already waiting for her in the bedroom, which was to be her place for the next few months. After unpacking and putting all her things away, she asked Claudia if she would like to go out for a meal that evening. Something typically Venetian and not on the tourist route. There will be more than enough time for me to savour all those delights daily on my guide days.

The next few days were the most tiring of all for Maureen. After spending so long working in an office, the most walking she had done was from one room to another. Here she was on her feet all day. And talk, she never knew that she could carry on, many times one sided conversations. Not only in English, but in Italian and German, for these were the main nationalities she had in her tour parties. During her first week the only thing that she was capable of doing when arrive back at the apartment, was first to take a long soak in a warm bath and then to collapse into her bed. There were no set days off, her working rota was 7 days on and on, with a two day rest after three weeks. Maureen and Claudia saw each other only very briefly at breakfast time. This usually passed by with the occasional, please pass the coffee or another roll, thank you. But today they had bother managed to get the same tow days off together. Even though they looked at the magnificent architecture and marvellous paintings each day, they were eager go out and find more treasures.

Dressing more casually in cotton trousers, t-shirts and pumps, they set off down the

narrow meandering streets. These alleyways were way out from the crowds and although some of the buildings could have done with some renovating, the owners of these apartments took great pride in them, adorning their balconies with dazzling arrays of colourful flowers. As the rays from the sun hit the drops of liquid on the recently watered plants, they looked like tiny diamonds twinkling amongst the plant pots. As their eyes adjusted to the now darkened street they saw the tiny doorway of a very old church. Unable to even hazard a guess of how old it was, they opened the door to take a peep inside. Looking at each other, they nodded their heads in agreement to go inside. It was the most amazing tine place of worship that either of them had every seen. The fresco whci covered the entire ceiling looked as though it had only just been finished. The colours vibrant and alive, giving a feeling of peace and the most tranquil feeling of being completely safe. A picture of Mary, standing over a young Christ, with such a huge area of bright light, like a halo, keeping them safely hidden from any of the dark forces which wanted to get into the heavenly abode. Sitting very close to the altar steps was an old lady, dressed completely in black and holding onto an even older copy of a bible. The old lady saw them standing in the open doorway, she beckoned for them to come forwards, with a gesture from her arthritic liver spotted hand. The door closed to behind them as they made the short distance towards her.

Speaking in a very quiet voice, the old lady said, good morning to you young ladies. It has been a very long time since any visitors come here. Please tell me how you found this place and from where you have come from.

Claudio began to tell her that we were both tourist guides working in Venice. It was out

day off and we loved to explore the city, to try and find more exciting and beautiful buildings. I am from Milano, another beautiful city, but far more busier with the cars racing about the streets and trying to beat the ever changing traffic lights. Here in Venice I find life is much calmer, people do not rush about as much and they take their time over everything. Although the tourists do make the squares and churches very crowded. My friend Maureen, is from a little village outside a town called Knutsford in England. I shall let her tell you more of there.

Claudia had to give me a nudge to start me off speaking to the old lady. It wasnt as if I was not used to speaking to many people, my job called for me to give clear and precise information, a stutterer would have been no good. So after giving a slight nervous cough I started my side of the story. Pardon me please if my Italian is not like what you are used to hearing. I taught myself from a computer course back in my home town in England. Your pronunciation is very good, for the little I have heard from you, please carry on, I do enjoy having new people to talk to. The old lady smiled at me, which gave me a boost to my confidence. Grazie Signora Cavello. With me now speaking more Italian during my tour guiding, it has become a little stronger and no longer alien for me to speak it. I come from a very quiet little village, only maybe 750 or 800 people live there. Se we all know each other quite well. Also little has been done to change the look of the village, keeping up old traditions. They may have been changes inside of peoples houses, but the structures havent. When my mother passed away recently, I decided to have a change. I felt as though I was being strangled and suffocating in the village. That is why I am now in amongst the multitudes of visitors who stream into your beautiful city. Like Claudia, I too have a passion to see more of the many splendours

here, which have survived the ravages of our now much busier times.

With an almost shy and downcast look, Maureen became quiet. The silence of the small chuch was broken only when Signora Cavello said, Bravo young lady. Your Italian is very good, and I have really enjoyed listening to you tell of the beauty of my city.

After saying goodbye and also agreeing to going back one day soon, they left the peacefulness of the church and walked back the way that they had come, through the now sun drenched walkways. This was to be the only time that Claudia and Maureen had the same days off together. On Maureens next free day, she made her way back to the small church. At first when she entered it seemed empty. But as her eyes became focused to the dim light, she made out the small frame of Signora Cavello. Walking aquietly up to the front seats, Maureen bent her head and said a quiet prayer. When she looked up she saw that the signora was smiling at her. I am glad that you came. I could tell that there was a real interest in this church and of the Italian way. What is it that you would like to know my dear?

Signora Cavello waited patiently for Maureen to begin. Who actually did the murals in this church? Although they have been skilfully painted, there is, I noticed, a very slight hesitancy to the brush strokes that the artist has made. The church itself is also very plain, befitting the remoteness and more local patrons of it. Maureen hoped that her wording was good enough for the signora to understand and that she had not said anything to upset her.

My dear, you are very observant. The artist was a local man, who was also a merchant of fruit and vegetables. Selling his goods up and down these very streets. His name was Giovanni Spinetti. His main interest was of the arts, in particular the painters. The colours intrigued him. Which colour blended with another, to make a further colour. He taught himself, as in those days to pay for a tutor was something which he couldnt afford. When the church was built and the then residing pope had blessed it, Giovanni asked permission to do the murals that you see here today. There is only one remaing of his family left today. You are very wise, so no doubt you have come to the right answer. I am the last of his family. My own family, my husband, two daughters and a son, all died in a tragic boating accident. So many years ago now, but to me I can still recall their faces. Signora Cavello stayed quiet for a long time after recalling this say story. Maureen thought that it would be wise for her to leave and to let the signora take comfort in her surroundings. Maureen was able to get back to the church one more time before she had to leave to go back to England. As she entered the church, she carried with her a small bouquet of flowers. Bright yellows and crimson roses. Two of the colours which were abundant in the murals painted here. Signora Cavello smiled and thanked Maureen for bringing in some welcome sunshine. I have a little gift for you also. It has been with me for many many years and I would like you to accept it and I have no doubt that you will treasure it. As she handed over the small framed picture, the look on Maureens face must have been a picture in itself, as the signora couldnt help but have smile pass her face.

Oh signora, this is a great honour. You are quite right, I will treasure it and keep it safe. One day hopefully I may marry and have children of my own to pass on the wonderful

story and of the most wonderful lady who gave this to me. After a tearful farewell, Maureen clasped her painting to her and made her way back to the apartment. In the morning she would be flying back to England and to another new beginning.

A few days went by when Maureen decided that it was about time that she took stock of her own house. She still hadnt had the heart to do anything in her mothers room, but today she was determined that she was going to get started in there. She had called Dr Hendersons surgery and had asked if Sheila had time to spare to help give her a hand in sorting through her mothers things.

No problem whatsoever. I shall be round there after morning surgery. Shall we say one oclock. Good, thats settled then, see you later Maureen.

Sheila was good to her word and arrived promptly at one oclock. Taking their cups of coffee upstairs, Maureen and Sheila began the job of selecting the best of her mothers clothes to go to charity and the rest to go to the dustbin. Once they got started the time flew past and it was only when Maureen looked at her watch and saw that they had been working away for almost two hours she said, I think it is time for a well earned break, let us go and have a coffee and put our feet up for a few minutes. What do you say

Sheila? Sheila was in full agreement. I wouldnt have though that there was this much stuff in your mothers room. I know that she rarely left this room, most of the time she spent in bed. Sheila looked around at all the plastic bags which they had filled. My mother wouldnt let me throw anything away. Her favourite saying was, you never know when this will come in handy.

Maureen smiled a little when she said this. It was very rare that her mother had given any reason to smile in this room. They chatted away over their next coffees, which they drank sitting at the table in the bright cosy kitchen. Maureen told about her work in Italy and of the many treasures there. Well, I think that if we are to finish off today, we had better get back upstairs again. I think that there is only one other place which has to be sorted out. That is mothers old writing desk. She sometimes had spent several hours writing in her diaries there. I often wondered what she wrote about. But I always respected her privacy. I suppose now will be the time to find out what she did write.

Maureen opened the writing desk with the small key, which was always kept on the table besides the bed. Pushing up the roll down top, she first looked in the small pidgeon holes set out at the back of the desk. There she found a selection of postcards. All written to her mother and dated years before Maureen had been born. There were only a couple which had been sent after Maureens birth. As she read through these she felt as though she was prying into someones love affair. The postcards were quite affectionate and a little daring for going through the post. Especially in those days, maybe forty years ago, gossip was something which could be spread faster than a fire. Maureen could come to only one conclusion, that the sender was her father

Her mother had only ever spoken of one man. When he had dies, Maureen had been very young and her memory of him was very dim. Maureen placed the cards carefully back into the slots, as though she wanted to give the impression that they hadnt been touched.

Next she opened up the large drawer in the desk. Her she found several old diaries, but placed at the top with a pen still clipped to the front, was her mothers last diary. She felt her heart beating within her chest. Her breathing slowed down, until she hardly seemed to be breathing at all. Slowly she turned the pages in the diary.

She looked at the beginning, January 1st. Her mother wrote, Yet again the skies are dark, with cold winds fighting each other in the sky. The cold seeps into my room, but it will not make me leave here. I can hear Maureen downstairs, preparing an early lunch for us both. She has been my constant companion. Also a much loved daughter to me. Although I cannot voice my true feelings to her, perhaps by writing in my diaries, she will one day know that I have always loved her. I will rest again now. These days my hand cannot hold my pen for very long. I am so very tired.

Maureen let her breath out, and out came a sob with it. Sheila came and sat beside her and took her into her arms, to offer some sort of comfort, from what she as yet did not know. Maureen, do you want to carry on, or would you rather leave this for another day. I can always come back to be with you. Sheila waited for a reply.

Thank you Sheila, but I must finish this. Just this little bit has shown me that my mother was not the person that I knew. She seems so much more lonelier that I ever thought.

As Maureen flicked through the pages of the diary, she made sure that Sheila could also see what was written there. They came to the last entry in the diary, just a few days before her mothers death. Her she also found an envelope addressed To be opened in

the event of my death. Through the weeks since the first entry of the New Year, more of the same had been written. More feelings being showered down onto the pages, all of the highest regard and of how she had followed Maureens triumphs in her studies in art and the languages. There was even one other reference to her father, with her mother writing, My darling husband, Maureen has certainly inherited your quick aptitude in grasping foreign languages. She has always been very quick in solving problems. I have had very little to do with anything financial. But there will be a surprise for her one day. A day that I know is not long in coming. I shall soon be with you again my dearest one.

This entry was her mothers last one. Folded neatly at the back of the diary was the envelope addressed to Maureen.

Maureen looked over at Sheila, her eyes full of unshed tears. She held out her hand, for she needed to be comforted. Maureen had always relied upon her own strength, so this was something which she wasnt used to. Taking a deep breath Maureen neatly sliced open the envelope, using her mothers heavy letter opener. Inside was a single sheet of notepaper. Her mothers own brand of pale blue which she had always used. In her neatest writing her mother wrote, my dear child. I still think of you as a child, but of course that is something that was taken away from you when you were just a very young thing. I can only put onto this paper the words, which should have been said to you many years ago. I was so afraid that I would loose you after the sudden death of your father that I struck out in the only way that I thought was best. I now realise that that was a very unwise and very selfish thing to do. You were robbed of your own childhood and even with my constant callings upon you to always be here, you never showed that you

resented me. I can only hope that you can one day forgive me for the lonely days and the even longer lonely nights that you had to bear because of me. On the reverse of this note to you, you will find an address of a solicitor in the main town square. Go to him and he will give to you a letter, which I gave to him for safe keeping many years ago. It was when I became completely housebound that I had more hours in which to think and to draw up the papers, which he has for you. I go now to the other one who has always been my light during the darkest hours. You are and always will be my daylight guiding angel.

Sheila led Maureen down the stairs and sat her at the kitchen table. This was a room so full of light, that it gave off the feeling of peacefulness. Pouring out a small amount of brandy which she found in the cupboard, she pressed this upon Maureen to take a sip. Her colouring had gone to quite a pale shade, but the hopes that a measure of the brandy would put some colour back into her cheeks.

I think that I may leave it a day or so before going to this address. The revelations of today have been quite something, which has given me a lot to think about. I thank you so much for being with me today, your silent presence has been of great comfort to me. I now think that it is time for you to go home, spend as much time that you can with your family. For after today there is no telling of when tragedy can strike. I do not wish to make you anxious in any way, please do not think that of me.

Maureen pressed her friends hand, and after walking to the front door and waving her goodnight, she herself went up to her room. She lay down upon her bed, fully clothed.

Too full of thoughts to undress ready for sleep, she stared up at the ceiling. Seeing her mothers words sketched upon the walls of her room. Her mother had loved her, of this she was now quite sure. But for all her life she had carried the thought that she was only there to act as her mothers servant. Many times giving vent to her own temper, of having to always keep silent. Now her mothers words of kindness kept repeating themselves. As she drifted off to sleep, she though she saw her mother smiling down at her. Turning slowly onto her side she smiled and said a quiet goodnight to her mother.

Maybe in her mothers words to her, this was her time to live.

The End

Spring Time Love

By

Greta Ann Hughes

Spring Time Love

The sun looked like a huge bright sunflower, with small fluffy white clouds floating in a sky that was a clear blue as far as the eye could see. Although it was still early spring, it was quite a warm day. Anna had set up her easel and was painting the fields, which were full of early flowers. Bright yellow and white, in a sea of green.

This area was still untouched, but you never knew how long it would remain this way. The constant building of new homes was taking over all of the countryside. Soon there would be very little of it left.

As she sat there she thought of Sam, he had been someone to whom she could always trust in tell her the truth about her paintings. Whether she should carry on or abandon her choice of work, or to find some other profession. But more than that he had been her lover. But all of a sudden Sam had decided that he wanted to be on his own and without any reason he had left her.

So deep in thought was Anna that at first she didnt see the dark shadow that was being cast over her canvas. As she gazed up towards the face that was looking down at her painting, it looked like the face of a sun god. Eyes the colour of bluebells that shone out of a face that was bronzed and lips that made you feel as though tiny drops of morning dew were kissing your skin.

She brought herself together and said in a slight haughty tone Isnt it rather rude to be

looking over someones shoulder? In a voice to match the Adonis looks, he whispered his reply,Not when I had been invited by the artist My name is William and I recently bought one of your paintings via a friend off ours, Sam. On hearing Sams name she was taken off guard slightly. Of course, I do apologise for not recognising you. The last time we met you had recently come back from a skiing accident and what wasnt bandaged had been covered in bruises They laughed at this description of him.

So what brings you here to this quiet little village. Anna asked.

I am on the look out for some colourful paintings for my new apartment. Looking at this one in front of me, I think I may have found the first one he said.

Their eyes met and Anna felt tingles go rippling through her body. She had thought that no one could touch her heart the way Sams love had. She made herself pull her gaze away from his and giggled rather girlishly Oh but you wouldnt want this one, Im sure that there must be plenty of pictures elsewhere if only you took a moment to look.

She must get herself under control. He took her hand and kissed the tender spot on her wrist. She felt herself feeling very light headed and when his lips met hers it took all her will power to keep from falling faint.

Williams husky voice murmured against her ear. Anna my darling, you have been in my thoughts since the first time we met. Now that you are free, I can show my love for you. Please say that you will not turn me away. Have dinner with me tonight.

I would really love that. I know that you wont know many places round here, but I know a small Italian restaurant, Ginos, who serves the best of pastas and has his wine sent over from the Le Marche region of Italy. Tonight then at 7pm, I will book the table for us said Anna.

She waved good-bye to William and then packed her paints and canvases away. On reaching her small cottage she sat down at the kitchen table and hugged herself. She seemed to be trembling all over. Get hold of yourself, she said aloud. You are acting like a schoolgirl. But even so she couldnt help but feel so happy and gay.

Anna bathed slowly, luxuriating in the warm perfumed water. After drying and styling her hair, she added just a touch of colour to her eyes and gloss to bring out the fullness of her ripe lips. She carefully chose a light beige coloured dress, which she topped with the silk shawl that had been handed down from her mother. After glancing at her reflection in the mirror she was ready to set off to the restaurant.

The sound of her heels made a slight tapping noise, which could be heard in the stillness of the evening, as there was very little traffic in the village. William was already waiting at the doorway to Ginos and walked forward to greet her.

You look radiant in that dress, the colour melts into your skin making it look like milk chocolate. Good enough to eat. Having said that I am starving, I do hope that Ginos lives up to what you have told me.

William led her into the restaurant and said Good evening, we have a reservation for 7pm, William and Anna. Buona sera signor et signorina, this way please. As the waiter left them to read through the menu, William took hold of Annas hand. Once they had chosen and the orders given to the waiter, he still kept hold of her hand. I feel as though we should have been together for a long time. But I never thought that one day that we could be. Do you feel the same. He asked. At the moment I cannot really say how I feel, except to say that when you looked at me earlier this afternoon, my heart missed a beat and my pulse quickened. Anna replied.

Their meal arrived and it was every bit as good as Anna had said. They had chosen the pasta with tomato and basil sauce, with a sprinkling of parmesan cheese, followed by thinly carved slices of chicken with porcini mushrooms, rosemary and garlic sauce and a green salad. For dessert they chose tiramisu, followed by a small coffee and brandy.

By the time that they had eaten and talked about her paintings it was getting late. They were the last to leave the restaurant, even though it was only a small village, Ginos was a popular place to eat. William walked her back to her cottage, but declined the invitation to go in for a coffee. He didnt want to put her in a position where she felt as though he had to stay. He did promise to call her first thing in the morning and with a long lingering kiss he said goodnight.

Anna felt over the moon. As she lay awake recalling everything that they had done and said, she still couldnt believe that she could be falling in love. He obviously thought the

same way about her. Finally her eyes became very heavy and she fell into a wonderful sleep.

When she awoke the next morning, it was to a dull miserable day. A day so unlike the previous one, but Anna did not let the weather spoil the happiness she was still feeling. She pulled out the canvas she had been working on when William had come upon her. She knew the view off by heart and the memory of yesterday was still fresh upon her mind. She would finish this painting off and give it as a present to William. She worked all morning and by lunchtime was just putting the finishing touches to the canvas. She hadnt realised how hungry she was, but checking on the time decided that she was ready for a break.

She settled for a fresh salad and crusty white bread, with a cool glass of sparkling water to refresh her. It was as she cleared the dishes from the table that she noticed the card at her kitchen window. Opening the door she found the basket of flowers, the card on the windowsill was slightly damp from the rain that had been falling for most of the morning. The card read, I rang your doorbell but got no response from you. I hope that you like flowers as much as you enjoy painting them. Will call on you again later. Love W.

She couldnt recall hearing the doorbell and went straight away to check on this. The bell wasnt working and she went back indoors to fetch a piece of paper to write a note Please use door knocker, the bell is not working and made a mental note for herself to get this fixed.

Anna returned to her canvas to put the last finishing touches to it and as soon as it was dry she would wrap this up for William. She was very pleased with the way the painting had turned out. The colours seemed to have come alive and there was warmth to it. Perhaps she was being silly, but just maybe the encounter and memorable day in which she had painted it was making it feel like this.

The afternoon moved on into early evening. It was when she had to put the lights on, as the day grew darker that she realised that she still hadnt heard from William. She went to the door to check that the sign was still there and hadnt blown away. Maybe he had more planned for the day than he originally had expected. It was still early so she really shouldn't have been getting worried like she was. But there was a strange niggling feeling at the back of her mind. Please dont let him have gone away as well.

She drew the curtains to shut out the dark night and as the darkness had come down, it brought with it a chill that made the house feel cold. Anna brought in some wood to light a fire in the living room. It soon got going and took away the chills that were gathering around her.

After preparing a light evening meal, she settled down to read. Soon the heat from the fire made her eyelids feel heavy with sleep. She decided to lock up and go to bed. As Anna drifted off she felt herself start to dream. Images of Sam leaving her came to the forefront. Tears formed and pushed themselves out of her sleeping eyes. Her body shook with sobs that were uncontrollable. The image of Sam was then taken over with Williams face. Smiling brightly at her and whispering words of love.

What could he know of love if this was the way he treated her. People in love didnt just disappear, but that is how it felt that William had done to her.

Anna awoke from her dream and the dampness of her pillow was cold against her cheek. She turned over too tired to care. When she next woke it was early morning and the day was dawning bright and sunny, so unlike the day before.

She went into the bathroom and showered, it made her feel fresh and took away the nights dreams of sorrow. She finishing dressing, making herself feel light and bright as the day with the pastel colours that she chose to wear. She went downstairs and made herself breakfast, toasted wholemeal bread buttered and topped with her favourite damson jam. Very fattening, but extremely nice. She also made herself a pot of tea and settled down at the kitchen table with the morning paper.

After cleaning everything up, Anna decided to go for a walk to really chase away any remaining wisps of her dream. She picked up a light jacket and making sure that her keys were in her bag, she set off on her walk. Her note was still pinned to her front door and being the female that she was and didnt have a clue of how to fix anything, she decided to call in at the local hardware store. The man who owned the store was the local fixer, anything broken, Bill would fix it. She had often said to herself that she must learn to do odd jobs around the house and to cut out paying some of the silly prices that repair people came up with. If you gave Anna anything feminine to do, she would have it done in no time at all.

So after calling into Bills shop, she next stopped at the local bakers. Buying the still warm, fresh crusty bread, she also decided on the locally made cheese which they sold as well. Carrying her basket of goods, Anna carried on walking along the lane until she came upon the fence which circled the small woodland at the edge of the town.

Anna climbed over the stile and with her tread falling softly on the carpet of leaves and grass she meandered her way through the trees. She breathed in the scent of pine needles and the freshness of the early spring flowers. Bluebells were ablaze all around her. She took in all of these sights and keeping them in her mind, she decided to turnaround and go home, where she would try to recapture the colours onto a new painting.

She was not far from her home when she saw someone waving a wooden walking stick in her direction. As she neared she realised who it was. With a cry Anna ran forwards, What on earth has happened to you, she exclaimed. Williams response was a shrug of the shoulders and in a sheepish tone said, After leaving your house yesterday and I do hope you liked the flowers, I then went hurrying off to try and catch the train into town. I slipped off the pavement and landed on my backside with my ankle at an odd angle at the curb edge. It was only as I tried to get up that I knew that it was more than a sprain. Your local odd job man came to the rescue. He called an ambulance and I spent practically the rest of the day in the emergency room at the hospital. As you can see I am in plaster again!

Anna lowered her head to try and hide the laughter which was starting to bubble up.

Unable to control it her shoulders started to shake with the fit of laughter which took her over. I think that I had better take you under my wing and make sure that you dont keep on ending up like some Egyptian mummy

As they walked together back to Annas house, William said that he was truly sorry that he had not been able to get in touch with her after leaving her the flowers. Although he knew where she lived, he didnt know her surname and couldnt get her telephone number from the information he had.

Anna didnt say anything. She was just so relieved that he hadnt left her. Couldnt she for once have given a thought to someone else? Why hadnt she thought that there could have been some kind of accident? She was glad though that he wasnt too badly injured.

On reaching her house, she noticed that her out of order sign had gone. Bill must have been already and fixed her doorbell for her. She opened her front door and after making sure that William was comfortable, she went into the kitchen to make coffee for them.

She poured the coffee out and handed a cup to William. As she settled back in her own chair, she looked over to where he sat and the feeling of contentment settled upon her again. They both started to speak at once, but after gaining control of themselves William said for her to speak first.

So, shyly to begin with, Anna continue to say that she was falling in love with him. Hoping that she would not be turned away and feel foolish she looked over at William

again.

With eyes that were shining he said My wonderful silly artist of course I love you. I have for such a long time. It is me that should be feeling foolish in wondering if you would feel the same. I have something for you. He then took from his pocket a small ruby red box, inside which was a single diamond ring. This is for you. Will you marry me he asked. Then added quickly, Im sorry I cannot get down on one knee.

Anna gasped and went over to him at once and said Oh William yes, oh how I wish I could dance around the room with you."

One day soon you will he replied.

As they held each other tightly, outside the night had drawn in and the moon and the stars had come out. It was a night made for lovers.

The End

The Dog Walker

By

Greta Ann Hughes

The Dog Walker

Up until now Margarets life had been a very busy one. Although she had not worked since marrying Duncan, there had always been the morning coffee get togethers, lunch dates and the arranging of the many dinner parties given by her and Duncan at their home. Her husband had a well-positioned job in an investment company in the city, Jeeves, Harbrook and Stevenson. They entertained on most weekends and sometimes during the week as well.

Margaret had become well known for the splendid dishes, which she served and she always made sure that she was the one in the kitchen, preparing the meal and seeing it through to almost the time it was to be served. She then handed it over to the people she hired to serve and to clean up afterwards. So Margaret was top of the list in being the ideal hostess. She made everyone feel welcome and chattered away in many topics of conversation.

So it came as a severe shock to her when Duncan was struck down by a speeding car and killed outright. He was only 36 years old, the youngest in the company at the top ranks and his death was also a major blow to the company as well.

Duncan had been well liked and there was a huge gathering at the funeral and many followed on to the buffet, which had been arranged and set out at a local restaurant. So many came and gave her their condolences, that their faces were a blur. It was when old

Mr Jeeves came to speak to her that she suddenly became quite overcome with the constant noise of talking and the many people circulating about. He took her arm and led her away to a quiet corner.

Margaret, please let me arrange for you to be taken home. You have done so much and been such a credit and strength to your late husband that I think that you now need to rest. I have a small beach house in France that you are most welcome to stay at, for as long as you wish. All you need to do is ring me and I will send the keys and arrange any transport for you. Now you must let me do this, for without you we would not have been able to get some of the clients that Duncan secured. But now, I think that it is time that I call my driver and have you taken home. With that he signalled to his driver and she said her hasty thanks to all those who were still there and was then driven home.

As Margaret prepared to go to bed that night, she sat at her dressing table and took a long look at herself. At the age of 34 she was still a very good looking woman. They had decided that they wouldnt have children as this could stop them doing the things that only they wanted to do. It may have seemed a little selfish to some people, but that was their choice. It was just at this moment though that she thought that maybe they had been wrong. Her days now looked as though they would drag on and on. As she only had herself to cater for now, she was going to have so much time on her hands. Her only employment many years ago had been at a florists. Today there were so many shops available, that she would probably find it difficult in finding a suitable place to work. She leant forwards and cupped her hands to her face and sobbed. She didnt know if she was crying at the loss of her darling husband or that she was feeling sorry for herself. It

wasnt like her to feel selfish, but as she finally dried her eyes, she said aloud to herself, why did you have to die, you know that I am useless on my own, my whole world revolved around you and the company you worked for. Sleep came to her quickly when she finally retired to her bed.

When Margaret awoke the next morning, the sun was shining and it was a beautiful day. Although her eyes were puffy and her skin felt very tight with the crying she had done the night before, she had made her mind up that she would take up the offer of the house in France. The different scenery and long awaited holiday would be good for her. There she would have none of the things around her to remind her of Duncan and she would be able to take walks and think about what her future could be. But first she had a lot of papers to sort out and to transfer everything into her name. She would probably be kept

at this for some time. Also as she started to think about this, it might seem as though she didnt care and that all she wanted was to go away.

So over the next few months she was kept busy at the house. Some of their friends had remained loyal, inviting her out, while others had drifted away just saying, we must keep in touch. But there again some of these friends had been Duncans and she supposed that they may feel embarrassed with her now being on her own. It was also a very good summer that year, blue skies and glorious sunshine. Just staying in her own garden and tending to the flowers, which had really come into bloom, made her feel safe in her own surroundings.

Six months had passed since Duncans death and although she had been busy, she was now thinking about a holiday. She then remembered Mr Jeevess invitation of the house in France. Later on in the morning she rang Mr Jeeves at his office, his secretary put her through straightaway and she was greeted by his friendly voice. It has been a very long time Margaret, I hope that you are well. I have recently returned to the office, after being away for the last couple of months. Taking a rest before I retire. Now as I recall I offered you the keys to the beach house, I do hope that this call is to say that you are going to ask for the keys.

As a matter of fact I am. Margaret said in a happier tone than of late. I have been busy getting the affairs of the house in order and I have had a good think about my life and I thought that a break away would be good for me. Your offer seemed ideal, as I havent the faintest idea of where I would like to go.

Mr Jeeves asked, would you like to meet me for lunch and I can tell you about the house and give you the keys.

I would really love that. It will also make a change for someone to wait on me, she joked lightly.

Over their lunch at the popular restaurant near to the offices, she was told of the quiet town of Wissant in France. Margaret had already decided that she would travel in her own car, so there would be no need for Mr Jeeves to arrange any transport for her. I think that it will give me more confidence in finding my way about. I have been too

dependant on others for a long time, so it is about time that I start now in trying to look after myself. Margaret said in a positive way.

Although deep down she felt nervous, she put on a good face and after the bill had been paid she thanked Mr Jeeves profusely and said that she would send him a postcard and would keep in touch with him. She would let him know when she would return and then she would make arrangements to get his keys back to him.

All that remained now was for Margaret to book a ferry crossing from Dover to Calais and she could be on her way. She spent the rest of the afternoon going around the shops. She bought herself new jeans and sneakers, as she was looking forward to taking long walks and to do some sightseeing. She also took herself along to the bookstore to find maps, as she knew that there were no up to date reference books or maps at home.

She felt an excitement at the prospect of the journey that she was about to make. Normally she only took the car locally or in to the city, so this would be the first time that she would be driving any distance. After she had unpacked the car and had sorted through her new purchases she settled down with a coffee and planned her journey. The journey down to Dover was easy enough, it would probably take about an hours time. She had been told that there was very little distance from Calais to the village of Wissant and looking at the map it looked straightforward enough. She smiled to herself as she remembered what she was like at finding places, the word hopeless sprang to mind. It was something that she had always left to others. Just thinking of that made her sigh a little, from now on she would have to do things for herself.

She booked a crossing on the ferry and her ticket would be at the terminal for her. She had the weekend to pack her suitcases and let her neighbours know that she would be away for a little while. They were a super group of families who lived on the crescent. There were only a dozen houses and it was a very quiet area. She then got the local garage to give her car a quick check over and when Monday morning arrived she was ready to set off. She had a leisurely breakfast and then made sure the house was locked up safely and checking her purse to make sure she had her money and passport, she backed off the driveway and with a glance in her rear view mirror drove off.

When she arrived at the ferry terminal, she went straight to help desk and was given her tickets. She had arrived in plenty of time, but as she passed through the various stages ready for driving onto the ferry the time seemed to go by quite quickly. Once aboard she had ample time to have some refreshments and then to browse around the on board shop. All this was very exciting for her. All too soon it was time to get into their cars ready to drive off. This was going to be the testing time for her. She started to get butterflies in her tummy, but said to herself, you only have to remember to drive on the opposite side of the road, everything else would be the same.

As she drove along the AutoRoute she kept a close eye on all the signs. Knowing very little French, she didnt want to end up driving and missing her turning. But she had no fear of that, it was clearly marked and she soon wound her way through the tiny roads into Wissant. Mr Jeeves had given her clear directions to the house and soon she was parked out in front of the house. The peacefulness of the place was the first thing that

struck Margaret. The few people she saw walking about, looked as though they had all the time in the world to get where they were going. The only sound that she could hear, was the sound of the waves coming in from the sea on to the beach. She knew right away that this was the place where she would find solitude and peace of mind, so that she could think of what she was going to do with her future.

Margaret settled herself in after unpacking her suitcases and the boxes of grocery, which she had thought to bring along. She took a cool glass of lemonade out in to the garden and watched the late afternoon go by. As the day was clear, you could look across the waters and see the headland of Britain. So if she happened to feel a little homesick, she only had to glance out.

She had picked up a couple of pieces of local history. From Julius Caesar embarking there in 54BC, to the 100 year war and to the Germans occupying the area from 1940 to September 1944. Margaret was looking forward to exploring the area and to speaking to the locals. Later in the evening she found a small restaurant, which served a selection of omelettes, all of which sounded very tempting. She also decided to try the local cider, a drink that she had not had in many many years. All the people she had met so far seemed very nice. She had taken along with her a French phrase book and with lots of gestures she managed to get by. Also they were all very patient and many spoke English, which she was grateful for and thanked them very much.

After being there for several days, she noticed that there seemed to be a lot of dogs being taken for walks. One person seemed to be out and about most of the day with various

types of dogs. He was very handsome, with dark eyes and dark hair and was tall of stature and had a way of walking as if on a catwalk at a fashion show. Margaret thought to herself, what on earth can his work be about. It was on the following day that as Margaret took a walk along the sea front, that the handsome guy approached her. For the first time he was without a dog and looked as if he didnt know what to do with the empty hands not holding on to a dogs lead.

Mademoiselle, would you please permit me to walk with you. I have seen you on my many occasions that I have walked by here, but as you see, today I am alone. I would like to walk by your side and see the sunlight dazzle through your golden hair. May I introduce myself, my name is Gerard. He slightly bowed forwards, with one arm behind his back, which Margaret thought to herself, this should have been in a scene in a film, not along the seafront.

Thinking what a very polite man he was, she inclined her head slightly and said, I would like your company very much. My name is Margaret and as you can already guess, I am here for a while taking a break from my home in England. As she said this, a slight twinge of homesickness flashed in her mind. Also, it was such a long time since she had been approached by someone, that she felt a little bit awkward.

Gerard offered her his arm, which she took rather timidly and he said in his sexily accented tone, as you have probably guessed, I have the job of taking the varieties of dogs for walks. My father has a boarding kennels just on the outskirts of the village, called Escalles. Most of what you see around here has had some historical moment. Did

you know that King Ethelred 11 of England sailed from the port here in 1013? Just a little something for you think about, as you wile your time away here. This was said with tongue in cheek, as she could tell by the twinkle in his eyes, when he gazed at her.

His look took her breath away. How could she start to feel like this after only being with him for such a short period of time? It must have something to do with having been left on her own so suddenly, because she had always been so used to meeting strangers, with Duncan bringing them home for the many dinner parties. She smiled at him and said quietly you must forgive me for being so quiet. I am not used to having attention being given to me so directly. Gerard asked her Have dinner with me tonight and then we can get to know each other better. There is a restaurant nearby, which has seafood as its speciality. Please say that you will dine with me.

His manner of asking her made her smile and she accepted without a second thought. They said their good-byes for the moment and with a wave went their separate ways.

Margaret fussed over what she should wear, finally she selected a deep purple dress, which fitted closely to her curved body. Just to take off the plainness of the dress, she wore a gold bangle with matching earrings and pinned to the left side a small gold owl brooch. Satisfied with her appearance, Margaret set off for her dinner date. Just thinking of the word date, made her feel strange. It had been a long time since she had had to talk about herself to someone new. Her usual topics of conversation were about the weather, holidays and what her late husbands company dealt in. Tonight she would probably talk about Duncan to a stranger for the first time. The thought of this was a little daunting,

but Gerard seemed such a thoughtful person, that she shouldnt find any problems.

As she walked along the quiet street, she passed by an art shop and made a mental note to go and have a look in there the next day. She could possibly get a new painting to take back home with her. As she continued on, Gerard was walking towards her. She smiled as they got closer and Gerard held out his hand to her. He lifted her hand and brushed a faint kiss on the back of it. This sent a tingle rippling through her. You look delightful, like a wonderful Iris flower, tall and slender, dark and intriguing. Gerard had such a way of speaking that she felt as if she was floating.

Margaret smiled shyly and said, Oh you are a smooth talker, I wouldnt mind betting that you have all the girls wrapped around your fingers.

Mon dieu, you shame me. I only have eyes for you and I express my feelings with all honesty. You do believe me, dont you? Gerard feigned a look of disbelief in what Margaret had said. Together they laughed and she said, Please let us carry on for dinner, I am truly hungry and I am looking forward to the meal and of course your company.

During their meal they talked about the news of both their countries. Margaret found these topics no problem, she was used to small chit chat topics from all the dinner parties she had given. The evening passed by very quickly and soon it was time for them to leave the restaurant. The night is still young, would you like to go for a walk and then I will take you home? Gerard asked as he slipped her coat on to her shoulders. I would

like that very much. she replied. Gerard led the way, he took her passed a very old house, most of which had fallen down and it was surrounded by a high brick wall. In the moonlight it seemed as if someone was watching them. Margaret had a sinister feeling of eyes following her.

Who lived in that house. It feels like a very sad house and as though something tragic has happened there? Margaret asked quietly.

Gerard led her down to the sea front and told her the tale of the house. That house has remained empty for many many years. The young man who was the last of the family who owned it died in very tragic circumstances. He had been engaged to be married to a local girl Marie, who had become a famous model. She had been on tour when the train she had been travelling in came off its rails and crashed down an embankment. Most of the passengers were killed outright, Marie was amongst them. He vowed then that he would never marry, for his love had died with Marie. He slowly went mad. It was said that he could be seen on some nights prowling through the corridors and looking out from the tower. It was on a bright starlit night, that he took his own life, he threw himself out of the window of the tower. The next morning the cook found him lying there. It is said that even today, that on clear moonlit nights he can be heard crying and calling for his love. Now after listening to that story, do you believe in ghosts? For as you can see, tonight is brightly lit, with the stars shining way up in the sky.

Well all that I can say is that you are a very good story teller. I am sure that his heart must have been broken, but as for ghosts, no I do not believe in them. Margaret

shivered slightly as she said this. She shook her head as if to dispel the feeling. You are shivering. Please let me take you home right away. It was foolish of me to keep you so long by the sea, with the cool wind blowing in. Gerard gently took hold of her arm and escorted her to her front door. They stood there for a few minutes until Margaret broke the quiet by saying I thank you so much for the lovely evening. You neednt worry about me having dreams of the haunted house, because I will fall into a deep sleep until morning. She leant forwards and kissed Gerard on the cheek and said goodnight.

Sweet dreams my angel of the night. I will call on you tomorrow, but I may not be alone, for tomorrow I will be back with my dogs. Gerard kissed her hand again and bade his goodnight to her.

Margaret made her way to bed and was soon fast asleep. It was in the early hours of the morning that looking around her and being afraid, she realised that she was standing outside the gates of the old house. She didnt know how she could have got there or how long she had been outside. She was dressed in jeans and a thick jumper, but couldnt recall getting dressed either. As she stood there she glanced up at the empty window, the old curtain was blowing in and out of the broken window. Faintly she could hear crying. Soon she was running back to her house, she ran faster and faster, until on reaching her door she stood panting and trying to get her breath. What on earth has come over me? It must have been the events of last nights story and too much wine.

She took herself off to bed again and lay there for a while, sleep seemed to come to her

slowly, but the next time she woke, it was morning and the sun was shining and she felt no lingering trace of last nights adventure outside. She thought perhaps that she had dreamt the whole thing. It was only when she came to get dressed after her morning shower, that she found that her trainers were full of sand. Perhaps when she met Gerard later she could ask him more about the story of the house.

It wasnt until nearly noon that she met Gerard, he said that he had been busy working at the kennels and had just started to take the dogs for their walks. What more can you tell me about the haunted house, she asked quietly.

Well I think that I told you about as much as everyone around here knows. He was madly in love with Marie. I believe that he is buried in the family crypt, which is on the grounds. Why do you ask? Gerard responded.

You will probably think that I am crazy. I had a dream last night, I was standing outside the house and there was crying, very softly, but I could make it out to be that of someone who was very sad. This morning as I went to put on my shoes, they were covered in sand. Now I dont believe in ghosts, but I cannot explain how my shoes were in this condition, unless I had been there. Margaret kept her eyes to the ground as she told this to Gerard.

This I have heard before. Some other young ladies have been seen walking and sometimes running, away from the house in the early hours of the morning. But this was

a very long time ago and I cannot recall any talk of their adventures. Gerard looked quite concerned. They finished their walk and Margaret said that she was feeling quite tired and decided that she would go back and rest and probably have an early night. They parted with a friendly kiss on the cheek and went their separate ways.

Over the next few nights, Margaret had the same dream again and again. It was on the third night that she actually saw the man for the first time. As he drew closer to her, she recognised him. She turned to run away, but the next moment she felt herself falling. It seemed to go on and on, until she felt herself cradled in strong arms, which had caught her before she reached the ground. When she came around she was lying on an old chaise lounge. Kneeling at her side, with head bent downwards and holding her hand, was Gerard. She took a gasp of air and sat upright very quickly.

You are the one that I have been looking for all my life. I should have told you from the beginning who I really was. Please forgive me. Gerard stood back from her and looked at her with eyes that were filled with love.

I dont understand. Where are we and what is it that you should have told me? Margaret was feeling scared. Her surroundings were not familiar to her and she could feel the cold night air.

My name is Gerard, that part is true. Also where I work, is also true. Perhaps for me to tell you everything, we should go somewhere warmer. May I take you to your house, where we could be more comfortable and I promise to tell you everything. Margaret

nodded and they returned to her house, walking in silence all the way.

Once they had settled in and Margaret had made them both hot drinks, Gerards real story came out.

My name is Gerard, like I said. My parents are not my real parents, they adopted me when I was a baby, they told me this when I was quite young. It was about three years ago that I found out who my real parents were and it took me a very long time to come to terms with the new knowledge. You see my real father, although I dont have his family name, was Edourd, the young man whose tragic death I told you about, who lived in the old house. My mother was Marie. She found out that she was expecting me during her modelling tour. She had been away for almost six months on the road and she was on her way back to tell Edourd the news, when the accident happened. She died before she had time to tell him. My mother was barely alive when the emergency people found her, but as soon as the doctors found out that she was expecting, they operated quickly and I survived. The house isnt really haunted. It was me who you heard crying when you thought you were dreaming. I can call out to people and reach them even in their deepest state of sleep and beckon them. When I first saw you, I knew that you were the one for me. I have searched for a long time for the one that I could truly love. Please say that you will be mine.

As Margaret slowly took all this news in, she looked deep into his eyes. What she saw there was pain, but the kind of pain when you are hurting inside. She knew that what he spoke of was the truth. She also knew that one day she could find a new kind of love

with him. A love of being with one another and maybe one day, the love of a close family. She could no longer stand the look that was on his face, the look that she may turn him away. She held out her arms to him and they clung to one another for a long time. The embrace was all there was to say. He had finally found the one to love and maybe the lonely walks, with only the dogs to keep him company, would now be at an end.

The End

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