Title: Counselling Odysseus

Counselling Odysseus © Estel 2004: don't steal any of me!

Rating: At the moment - R, NC17 (May change)

~NB~ To those of you who seem to recognise this - no you're not imagining things, I have posted this before. Due to a major lack of spare time, plus writer's block I lost interest in continuing to post. After a rethink, it's back - and we'll hopeuflly reach the finish line this time!! Be prepared for re-writes is all I can say....you've been warned!!! ;-)


Disclaimer: This fiction is rated R for some adult content as in language and references to sex, and violence. Some chapters will be rated NC17 for obvious reasons! I do not own any of the celebrities or characters in this story. The personalities portrayed are fictional representations of those created in my head. However, I do own the storyline!! This writing is not intended to offend in any way, and if it does cause offence to anyone, my profuse apologies. The opinions featured in this fiction are not my own, they are those of the characters, so please do not assume otherwise and hate me for something they might say or do. This is only a story and is not supposed to be taken seriously.

Any constructive criticisms, advice or comments about this story would be greatly appreciated as this is my first fanfic. I also understand that the storyline is v. farfetched, but hey, it's fiction, right?!

Summary: The year is 2149. A century-old battle rages between the sexes, sparked by the murder of a great man many years before. A fearless young woman, The Merciless lives only to avenge the brutal murder of her mother. She roves her enemy's lands, killing any Lesser she may find. The Order of Mentor is a group of highly skilled and powerful men. Their purpose - to guide the potential leaders of generations to follow. A Mentor, one blessed with a heart of kindness and compassion, unwittingly discovers within himself the power to love what he has been taught not to.


***** I would like to add two points *****

I cannot stress enough how much I would appreciate those who read this story if they could give me their feedback - I don't care what you have to say about it. Whether you love it or hate it, please let me know by posting. It doesn't have to be long, or deep, or particularly thought-provoking. Just to know that I have people reading the story is a great encouragement to me.

I would also like to point out to those of you who begin to read the story but aren’t really into it - be patient - wait till the story truly begins. The content of the prologue does not necessarily represent the style or direction of the main story! Just give it a little while.


***** POST POST POST POST POST POST POST POST POST POST POST POST *****

So...*ahem*...here goes...



Prologue


19th December 2011

I don’t know what to say! It’s coming to the end of one of the best days of my life! Mother’s approval of me attending the rally was the best Christmas gift I could ever ask for. I know that she doesn’t understand why they mean so much to me, but I really couldn’t thank her enough for finally telling me I could go last week. Honestly, the evening was amazing!! Paris Roberts - yes, the Paris Roberts, leader of the WTE – made a speech to the entire crowd, not just her more ‘important’ supporters! Then, she actually walked among the supporters for a brief time! I can’t believe I was one of the lucky few to actually meet her!! She walked past me, and however foolish it might sound, all I could do was stare at her with a silly look on my face! Eventually, I stammered out a hello, and she shook my hand! I might not wash them ever again - not only that, but she spoke to me!! I couldn’t really hear – I believe she thanked me for attending, and then something about being grateful for my support. She is such an inspiration – I couldn’t help but leave tonight with a feeling of abundant optimism for the future! Not to mention how pretty she is. I would be jealous, but I find it impossible to have such unkind feelings towards such a nice lady. I mean, she’s only 3 or 4 years older than myself. Just think what she’s done already in her life! I could achieve anything! I feel like I can now look forward to the future. Not just my future – every girl’s! If they make it to power, all I can see is improvements to the way women are treated. The WTE’s campaign sounds so much more promising, more personal than the others.

On my return, mother didn’t really seem overly excited for me, but then I can understand that. I think it must just be her belief that society treats us perfectly acceptably as it is. I’m assuming I get my self-opinionated nature from Grandma, but then I wouldn’t know. I suppose that is something I do regret about my life – I have never really made an effort to get to know Mother, and in doing so, never found out about her past. She just seems so…I don’t know, ambivalent?? She doesn’t ever stand up for herself, or challenge anything. It’s as if she’s still a little girl, not wanting to speak up in case she gets told to sit back down and be quiet. Perhaps that has something to do with her childhood, or how her parents treated her. Again, how would I know? But then, thinking about it, maybe she thinks I’d be better off not knowing. Anyway, enough of that, it’s starting to get depressing!!

Sitting here on my bed, all I can think about is the New Year. I’m sure that now mother has seen I didn’t get either brainwashed or sacrificed at the rally, she will be easier on me next time. I’m hoping that I can make it to the Open Debate between Miss Roberts and the Morbel Group’s leader, Jonathan Pryce. I can’t wait!!




15th March 2012

It’s now official. I am a member of the Women for True Equality party! I can’t believe this has happened – all of my hard work from the past few months is finally paying off! Before Christmas, the thought of me being a part of this was a mere fantasy, something that was near impossible. I’m on my way to achieving my dreams! I guess that shows how much of an impact Paris has made on me. I tried so hard to make a difference because of her. Mother claims that I idolise her in every way – apparently, I dress more like her with each passing day. I think that’s utterly ridiculous, but…you know mother! I’m not ashamed to admit that though. Yes, she is my idol, but for a very good reason! In fact – more than one reason! She cares about people. I mean, sincerely cares. So many people lack that quality these days… people see the group as a stubborn selfish party forcing people to agree with us, but they couldn’t be more wrong! It would appear that many share the view that we are just pushing to get our own way, being ‘stereotypical women’ – or so I read somewhere! This is just the sort of treatment Paris aims to end. After speaking to the WTE campaign manager today, I have a clearer idea of the ‘official’ finalised party plans…mainly changing particular laws and regulations affecting women in general, and some of specific religions. That was all I managed to understand, the rest sounded a bit too complicated for me, plus the girl telling me was, well…boring…and I was far too excited to listen, anyway!


The WTE is everything I could wish for - it’s so refreshing to find I’m not alone in my ideals and ambitions…my hopes for the future. Also, I must say my colleagues also seem very friendly. Don’t get me wrong, I realise Paris isn’t the only kind person in the world! I am truly elated to be an effective part of the WTE! I believe in what they stand for so strongly – it would ruin me if we didn’t win the elections next year…

I am so happy, I have given Marie the afternoon off…I shouldn’t worry about mother being angry, she’s not in, again. Marie was awfully glad, and I was pleased to give her good news. I think we can do without the ballroom floor being scrubbed anyway – it’s not exactly as if we use it! I told Marie so, too. She just laughed that loud, infectious laugh of hers, and I couldn’t help but laugh with her. She’s such a nice woman – sometimes, you know, I feel like she knows me better than my own mother - and she really understands me! It’s not surprising really…I do talk to Marie more, and about more personal things!

You should have seen the smile on my face when I got in today…being a chosen applicant has really made my YEAR! I feel silly for being nervous last night! Now I am a Member, I will see Paris every day!! Obviously, I have already spoken to her many times, but things are different now - she’ll see me as half important! I can really see us becoming the greatest of friends!

A very interesting start! I like this a lot, it is very creative! The whole WTE part is intriguing. Excellent job, I really like your banner.

Aw thank-you!! Yay - my first comment - glad you like it so far!!

Check back for updates this weekend!

Yay!!! Hehe, thanks again!!!! :blush:

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(Prologue cntd.)

June 17th 2012

Oh. My. GOD. SO MUCH has happened today!! I am now an ELDER of the WTE!! I am absolutely amazed! How did this happen? I knew I had made some good friends in the past couple of months, but I had no idea it was to this scale!! Ha – I know they’re not all my friends as such, but they feel like it right now. I can’t even put into words how…completely… dumbfounded I am! This is the best thing that has ever happened to me! And I thought being a mere Member was a blessing! Wow…I feel like jumping up and down and dancing like an idiot, my chest feels ready to burst I’m so overwhelmed!! My new title is officially ‘Advisory Elder of the ‘Women for True Equality’ Party Council… wow! Just…wow! That phrase just keeps running through my head – it’s all I can think about! I never in my wildest dreams imagined I could one day be able to say that, and it be the truth!

Paris was ecstatic for me obviously – as was Marie! All I can think is that I must have done something right since becoming a Member! All of my fellow Elders seem awfully nice too – especially Christelle Peacock and Marie Chesterville…at least I think that was her name!! All as new to the job as me, but still, we’re already getting along like a house on fire!!

Oh, yes, and you won’t BELIEVE who was voted onto the Morbel Group’s Council of Elders…Thom Devere!! I almost fainted when I saw him! I didn’t even know he was a Member of MG! It must be, what, 11… 12 years since he moved?? I hadn’t seen him since, either way! As soon as he stepped up to the podium, though, I recognised him immediately! Seeing him now, it’s surprising how accurately I was able to recall his face in my memories… my other memories as old as those I have of him have slowly been forgotten - the particulars and people eventually becoming a blurred mass, an out-of-focus Polaroid snapshot. But with him…it’s like I could, and still can (!), remember and relive every minute of my childhood spent with him with perfect clarity! He hasn’t changed a bit – still the same short, dirty blond hair I used to muss up…the same deep, yet somehow piercing ice blue eyes… his smile…still such a brilliant smile…often more of a boyish grin…it’s a wonder how so many years can pass and someone seemingly change so little. Unfortunately, though, I’m sure he has…changed, I mean. 12 years is a long time after all…a lot can happen in 12 years…and for another, I mean come on, he’s an Elder of the Morbel Group! Surely that means somewhere along the way he’s turned into a chauvinistic pig, or why else would he be a part of that?! To be honest though, I do feel somewhat sad about things. It’s such a shame that what with all that’s been going on – votes and everything else – I didn’t, and probably won’t, get a chance to really catch up with him. We did meet, though!

I was on my way to the toilet, of all places, when I passed him in the hall. I looked straight at him and smiled briefly, hoping he would remember me. He walked straight past, and my heart sank. I realised I would just have to forget about it – he would probably remember me at some point, and even if he didn’t, it’s not like I’d die! There’s no hiding the fact that I was upset for a second, though… I continued to walk down the large empty corridor, just with my mood a little lower than before. I listened to his footsteps on the polished wood below and then suddenly… stop. Thinking he had just gone into a room leading off from the hall, I continued on my way, almost reaching the mid-point of the stretching corridor. ‘It’s not the end of the wor-‘, I thought, interrupted by a questioning, but quiet ‘Hey!’ and a hand on my shoulder. I turned to face the boy I once knew so well standing behind me. He just stood there for a second.
“I thought I knew that smile from somewhere...” I had to say something. A shrug and a muffled ‘Hi’ was all that came out. Another pause.
“Oh, wow. Kiera – I’m so sorry – I’m just so…just…God, what are you doing here??” Before I could reply, his strong arms had wrapped me in a hug I had been missing for what seemed like a lifetime! I started to explain.
“Well, I –“ but glancing at his watch, “Dammit… Kiera I’m sorry, are you here all day??” Not waiting for a reply:
“I’ll come find you later, I’m late for a meeting. We’ll catch up, it’s been way too long!!” Pointing a reassuring finger and throwing me that sideways glance I knew so well, Thom turned on his heels and quickly walked away.

Later on, I ate lunch with Paris. Whilst we sat and ate in the courtyard, a suited man shuffled across the square talking animatedly to a figure blocked from view. By the time I realised it was Thom, all I had time to do was wave, and all he could afford was a nod of acknowledgement. Of course, Paris immediately jumped on the issue, giving me the Spanish Inquisition about why I was affiliating with such an ignorant, selfish excuse for a human being…a…dare I say it…boy!? I explained that I once knew him, but didn’t elaborate on the fact…knowing Paris, it would become such a big deal. She seems to have formed an immediate dislike for him - I asked her why but she refused to say. I’m proud to say I stuck up for him, though, however much he may have changed inside. I told her he was a perfectly nice young man, who just happened to have made the wrong political choices…you can imagine what she had to say about that!! The fact that I don’t hate every single man on Earth like she does obviously makes Thom and I married in her eyes!!

Hey,

You're posting again. So I guess that means you found it. I think the prologue is very intriguing even though it's different from the main story. Just keep going this time.

Anneka

Thanks Annie - yeah I found it, finally figured out how to access my college files from home!! Woot! ^_^

Nice of you to check in on this again....fingers crossed it will get finished this time!! We'll soon see I guess...haven't seen you online recently but we've probably just missed each other! I'll be sure to catch up on TGoA soon!! Hope you're well.

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(Prologue cntd.)


June 28th 2012


I should really get to bed, as it’s the wee hours of Sunday morning! But, I feel I must write about my evening. I turned up at the Stradbroke Hotel unusually on time, dressed up to the nines like I knew Sophia would be (I wouldn’t want to look frumpy compared to my perfect sister!!) I had the most adorable little black dress and had ‘borrowed’ those beautiful white gold ear-rings that Mr. Donahue gave mother for Christmas. If I may say so myself, I could have almost been competition for Sophia! So, there I was, waiting in the forecourt… for no less than 40 minutes (!!), when she finally decides to call me to say ‘Sorry darling, I have a date…you understand, don’t you?’…Well, I was hardly going to say no…I probably wouldn’t have enjoyed it had she turned up!! And as it turns out, I’m glad she didn’t. I had the most enjoyable evening anyway…

I put the phone down and sighed in frustration at my useless sister. ‘Why does she have to wait until I’ve wasted as much time as possible to let me know?’ Shaking my head at no-one in particular, I walked towards the hotel reception to ask for a taxi. There was nobody in line so I stepped up to the counter and cleared my throat, the woman behind the desk remaining completely unaware.
“Um…Excuse me? I need a taxi to Redcourt, please?”
The woman looked up, surprised, “Oh, yes of course, madam. I’m sorry, I didn’t see you there. If you’d like to take a seat, I can let you know when it will be here.”
“Thanks very much.” I nodded in appreciation and turned to the lounge area of the Stradbroke forecourt.
“Kiera! Wait there!” called a voice close on my left. Looking round, I saw an old friend trot towards me.
“Oh hi, Thom. I didn’t see you in the queue behind me, I’m sorry. I would’ve said something…”
“That’s ok. What are you doing here?”
“Um…going home, really. You?”
“Supposed to be dinner with the girlfriend…gone and cancelled on me. I was going to get a cab home, but…are you busy now?
“Well, not really but I should probably get home, becau-”
Glancing over his smartly suited shoulder, putting an arm around me, he called over the desk.
“She’ll cancel that taxi!”

So, we went and ate a delicious meal in the hotel’s Green Room, a smallish lobster bar where Thom had booked a table for himself and ‘Caitlin’. The place was busy, but with a booking we were able to sit down immediately. The thought crossed my mind that the idea of eating with Thom was a bad one – what if we were spotted? It wouldn’t look good for either of us, being in competition – but I dismissed it quickly. If we were seen, so what? We had reason to be there, and there was no law against it…I have never stated publicly any negative opinion of men, and so couldn’t be quoted or proved to be a hypocrite in any way…although, Paris would probably disagree! We settled into our seats and ordered from the menu, and from that point onwards to the minute we said our goodbyes, I didn’t stop smiling! I haven’t laughed as hard as I did tonight in years (Probably, about 12!).

“Look at you, all suited up!” I said at once the food had arrived. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so smart before...” I could think of one occasion… his father’s funeral, when he was 10, but I wasn’t about to bring that painful memory up.
“Well, you did after school, but I was anything but smart then! Come on, a kid of, what, 9?! What do you expect?”
I laughed. “It’s so strange, you’re so grown up, and you used to feel like my little brother!”
“I could say the same for you, Kay. No offence, but you were a bit of a tomboy back then!” He nodded towards the top of my dress. “You’ve changed a bit, yourself! Never had those, for one thing!”
Embarrassed, I laughed and crossed my arms to avert his once innocent eyes away from me. I’d never had to worry about things like that with him!
“Well, we all change, Thom.”
“I know, I know, but I wish we didn’t have to.” He paused and looked at me for a few seconds.
“Listen…” Reaching across the table, he took my hand. “I have to say this, in case I don’t see you again for another 12 years…” He glanced down at the table for a second.
“I’ve missed you. A hell of a lot. And I can’t tell you how sorry I am that I didn’t try to contact you or write to you or… well, just… stay a part of your life. I want you to know that I did get your letters, and I tried to reply, I really did. But it was so hard for me…after…well, you know…”
I smiled at him. “Thom, I do know. And I understand… I never hated you for it at all. I’m just glad we got this opportunity to see each other…I really thought I’d never see you again after you left.”
Smiling, he said: “I know. Neither did I, and I’m not about to let it happen again.”

I’ll shut up now, I’ve already written more than I planned and I’m wiped out, but I had to write these things down in case I forgot how kind his words were...I needed to hear them so much. After that, we sat and talked for hours, reminiscing and talking about our families and lives and what became of the Turner brothers and is that old hag who lived two doors down from you dead yet. How is Sophia, what’s Jimmy up to these days, I heard your mother’s business closed down after you left, is she keeping well, how long have you been a part of the Morbel Group? We got off the unavoidable subject of our business in politics as quickly as possible. By the time I realised we were the only ones left in the restaurant excluding the tuxedo-clad piano player and maitre d’, it was gone one thirty! I suggested to Thom that we leave as the manager was looking tired…we shared a taxi to the corner of Redcourt, as he was headed past there anyway, and as we said goodbye, and I thanked him for a wonderful evening, I felt a nostalgic pang of love for him – not love love, but a sort of brotherly-sisterly love that can only come from being such close friends for many years. He hugged me goodbye and held me longer than he had before…I think he was experiencing that same feeling. It was only in his arms then that I realised how much I had missed him, too. I had thought many years ago that I was over what we had, I’d disregarded how we both thought we would be friends forever, but tonight, I shockingly realised that I have hidden those feelings of hurt and regret under a blanket of pretence. Maybe those feelings have been waiting for closure, but even so, I don’t think I’ve gotten that from tonight. Hopefully, if we don’t wait another 12 years to talk again, now I won’t need it.

Great chappie Hope it's nice to meet friends after a long time you captured the emotions well.

Have to agree with Anneka... you should keep this up... excellent prologue!

:love:

Oh my God! I remember this!
This was so awesome.. I loved it!

And I did a review on it, when I was working with the reviewing team..
When I saw the title I thought I'd seen it somewhere, and I checked my computer and I actually found the review file!!

Ooh, I'm really excited to see this again!
It's the first I've read since I got back
(yesterday, I was fLower!, dunno if you'll remember me)

I don't remember that much, but I know it was awesome!
I'm glad you're posting this back!!

=)

Hey kukka, yes of course I remember you, and ESPECIALLY your review because it was awesome!! Thank-you so much for that, it meant a lot to me!! Well, I'm glad that you're back and you are enjoying what I've got up so far. I decided to repost the story since I thought it would be such a shame if I never finished it!! So...here's the next part....I hope you all like it!!


5th July 2012

I have decided that if my mother were to read this diary she would die of heart failure on the spot. Especially with what I am about to write.

So…last night, I had returned from a great evening out, even though it was to do with work. The Independence Day Picnic was great fun – the Elders and I, as well as Paris, sat on a huge blanket together on the Green of Fisher’s Park. We ate watching the summer sun set, laughing and giggling, the beautiful music of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra filling our ears, serenading us, filtering through the trees to the many others around us. The Supporter’s Organisation had set up the event, and on receiving the invitation in the mail last week, I had thought the night would be a complete drag. But no…it really was lovely. We didn’t even get hassled by many of the public, just a few photos and autographs, which was a nice break! The fireworks began just as night fell and the show was fantastic! In sparks of every colour imaginable, bright shapes and patterns of all sizes I didn’t know possible filled the sky, and as I looked around at each of my friends around me, their faces glued to the sky with a look of magical awe on their faces, I knew this was where I was meant to be…

Yes, I know, that’s so sentimental, but that’s how I have been feeling these past few days. It’s like something’s changed in me…I don’t know what it is, but it’s making me see things in a different light - I notice even the littlest things in my life that are good and they make me smile, I feel suddenly so lucky – before, I knew how lucky I was with the WTE obviously, but now…it’s like everything that’s happened to me in the past few years has been leading up to this point…I have a job I love, friends there who mean the world to me…someone to talk to, finally someone who understands me and what I believe in, Paris…and, not forgetting Thom…someone who I thought I had lost forever, suddenly turns back up again in my life, and now it’s like he never even left. I know it’s been difficult to see him since we had our little reunion, but we’ve managed considerably well what with both of our demanding jobs, our ‘difficult’ situation…granted, we’ve only been out on a few occasions, and had lunch together maybe twice, but it all counts…I still can’t get over how it feels when we talk. It’s like all those years without him didn’t exist…talking to him about everything, even more than I tell Paris, is just…strange, really. To have someone who knows and understands a lot of what you’ve been through, even been through it with you and vice versa is a blessing I don’t think I deserve, but I’m so glad I have it.

I think that must be what had me in that strange mood last night… anyway, I’m getting sidetracked, as usual. At the end of the fireworks, we all said our goodbyes, and each of us made our own way home. Mairi and Christelle by cab, Paris by her driver, the other’s on foot, and me by Underground. I reached home about twenty-five minutes from leaving Paris at her limo, unusually having to wait for a train for a few minutes. Walking across the street under the orange glow of a streetlight, I sighed wearily, just thinking of sleep…

I searched for the back door key in my bag, felt the cool metal under my fingertips and snatched it up. Letting myself in, a strong odour of pine furniture polish and washing up liquid filled my nose. Making my way out of the utility room, across the kitchen, my eyes fell on the remnants of someone’s dinner on the sideboard, utensils in the sink, waiting for the morning when Marie would wake and fill yet another day with clearing up other people’s mess.
‘Why can’t mother just give the poor woman a break…if she’d only been thoughtful and eaten earlier, she would have caught Marie before she went to bed - she wouldn’t have something else to ruin her day. She already has enough to do, and it’s not as if she’s getting any younger…’ Letting my bag fall to the floor, I turned on the hot tap, and reached for the ghastly pink, flower-covered rubber gloves hanging over the sink’s edge, that Marie insisted on wearing.
‘She might be lovely, but she could do with some taste…’ I muttered to myself as I began to wash my mother’s designer plates. When the last dish was clean, I wiped the sideboard over and threw the gloves in the sink.
‘Finally…I can get to bed.’ I walked towards the stairway and contemplated looking in on Marie, saying goodnight, but decided against it.
‘However much I’m sure she’d love to hear about tonight, she’ll only be tired tomorrow… that’s not fair. I’ll see her in the morning,’ I thought. I made my way to my bedroom quietly, creeping by mother’s bedroom so as not to wake her, bypassing the one noisy floorboard in the entire house right at her door, which I knew from a previous (unpleasant) experience. The muffled snore coming from her mouth continued to emanate from the slightly open door, and confident I hadn’t woken her, I went to my room, closing the heavy door gently behind me.

A few minutes later, I was in my nightdress and robe, brushing my teeth. Humming almost silently, my thoughts turned to the sweet dreams I could be having within minutes… The house was not quite deathly silent, the only noise the resonating tick of the Grandfather clock in the dining hall underneath my bare feet. I switched off the overhead light of my room, closed the ugly peach curtains hanging above the window box that Marie always forgot, and dragged my aching feet to bed. Moving the decorative cushions from my bed, onto the waiting chair beside it, the noise of a creaking floorboard from the hallway outside stopped my dead in my tracks. My eyes were stuck to my bedroom door, my heart thudding in my chest. The brass gilded door handle moved downwards, the door slowly inched open until a small gap was created.
‘Miss Kiera!’ a whisper urgently called from the hall.
‘Marie?!’ I whispered back. I unhunched my back and walked hurriedly to the door, my open robe flowing behind me. ‘What is it you w-’
‘Miss Kiera, I’m sorry to wake you, but he insisted he see you…I tried to tell him, but he wouldn-’
‘Marie, what are you talking about?’ I said in a hushed voice to the half of her face visible in the dim light, squeezed between the door and frame. Pulling open the door, I was about to tell her that whoever it was would just have to sleep outside and see me in the morning if they were that desperate…
‘Marie, whoev-’Marie’s wide but very short frame greeted me in the hall. Over her greying hair, I could make out a white shirt and loosened dark tie, both in hues of blue under the moonlight falling through the window next to them. Black shoes stepped into the pool of light in front of them. I was looking at a tired, dishevelled and sorry-looking Thom.
‘Thom?’ Still whispering.
‘I’m sorry, Kay, but I didn’t know what els-’
Marie, but now angry, if anything: ‘Miss Kiera, like I said, I am sorry for waking you, but the stones thrown unrelentingly at my window by him-’ at this, she pointed a thumb over her shoulder ‘-pulled me out of a very nice dream, that I would very much like to return to…’
‘Certainly Marie, I’ll take care of it, go on off to bed, won’t you.’ Marie slowly turned herself around and limped off, grumbling quietly under her breath.
‘Used to be such a nice boy…’
‘Ugh, Tom, what are you doing here?’ Ushering him into my room, I heard mother call out sleepily:
‘Kiery darling??’ Followed by Marie’s reply from halfway down the stairwell:
‘It was just me, Mrs. Daley. Left my…uh…duster…in…the...the bathroom. Nothing to worry about…’
I silently thanked Marie for lying for me, however blatantly, even though I doubt mother was with it enough to notice even if she had told the truth, and followed Thom into my room.

He was sitting on my grudgingly empty bed.
‘What’s happened?’
His handsome face fell. ‘I’m sorry Kiera, but I didn’t know what to do. It’s over…’ He struggled with his words for a minute.
‘Me…me and Caitlin. Its over.’
‘Oh Thom, I’m sorry.’ I sat beside him and put an arm around his shoulder. I expected him to say that she had dumped him over something stupid…that’s the only thing I could conclude from how upset he was.
‘I finished it.’
‘What? Why?!’ That was the last thing I expected. He had always said such nice things about her, telling me about how much in love with her he was and how she was the best thing to ever happen to him.
‘I…I don’t know! That’s the stupid fucking thing! I don’t know! I just said some crap about how I can’t be there right now, with Morbel and all…all that stuff, but that isn’t why…I don’t even know why!! I just…what have I done? She was so upset, but she was so…so nice about it…God, I’m an idiot! Why was I so fucking stupid?!’ A lone tear fell from his eye, and traced a wet line down his distressed face. He covered his face with his hands. I didn’t really know what to say.
‘Did you just decide this before tonight? Or was it, like, a spontaneous thing?’
‘God… I don’t know. I was just sitting at the table, and it suddenly occurred to me that I was unhappy. And I just figured that must have been why…I’d had way too much to drink, what with the MG paying for the whole dance, and I just…I don’t know.’ Thom fell back onto my bed with an exasperated sigh. I copied his movement, and, feeling the mattress underneath my tired body, teasing me, taunting me, I longed for sleep even more. But I knew I couldn’t. I thought about how to say what I was about to.
‘Thom…’ I laid an arm across his chest, trying in some way t comfort him. ‘Maybe…maybe you really were unhappy with her…maybe it just took a while to realise. Maybe she just wasn’t as right for you as you thought she was…you can’t make yourself love someone, however much you might want to.’
‘You think?’ He sniffed quietly, a hint of hopefulness in his voice.
‘Yeah, I think. And like you said…she doesn’t hate you. Maybe she realises that, too.’
‘Yeah…maybe…I don’t know…’ However hard I willed myself to stay awake, my eyes slowly fluttered closed, and Thom’s voice drifting away, fading further into the background, as I fell into a deep, dreamless sleep.

So…this morning, I woke up with Thom. How weird does that sound?! He was sleeping silently next to me as I sat up and stretched. A wave of guilt suddenly came crashing over me as I realised I had fallen asleep when he had really needed to talk to someone. I dressed quietly and went down to make some breakfast. Marie told me that she had let me sleep purposefully, and had rang Christelle to let her know I was ‘feeling very ill and needs to rest’ for the day. How I love that woman!! I took up some toast and tea for Thom, and walked in to find him sitting up, his eyes squinting slightly at the bright sun, slowly roaming around the room.
‘Morning, gorgeous.’ He whispered as I stepped into the room.
‘It’s ok, no need to whisper, mother’s gone shopping as usual.’
‘Um…shouldn’t we be at work, or did I sleep though a whole day?’
‘I’m guessing they’ll figure out we’re not going in eventually…’ I placed his breakfast on the bedside table, and gestured to him to move along.
‘Shove up a bit, I’m cold…’ Once between my bed sheets, warmed by Thom’s semi-naked body:
‘Thom, I’m sorry about last night… I was just really tired and…’
Thom faked shock. ‘You mean, you fell asleep?’ Laughing, he assured me it was fine.
‘Kay, I’m the one that should be sorry. I completely imposed on you last night, and Marie…you know, I think I might have upset her a teeny bit…’
‘Yeah, I think you did…oh well, she’ll already be over it!’
‘Ok…seriously though, I’m sorry. I never should have turned up here…woken everybody, and then stayed! I figured the room with the lamp on downstairs would have been yours, I mean your bedroom used to be there, so…’
‘Oh, yes, when Marie’s husband died, she moved in with us…I gave her my room, and mother said I could have Sophia’s, so…’
‘Anyway…are we ok?’ He looked at me with that boyish grin…expectantly. I playfully punched him on his bare arm.
‘Thom, could we ever not be ok?’ Smiling, I hugged him. I tactfully suggested a shower…the strong smell of alcohol from the night before hadn’t worn off…just gotten staler. He clambered out of bed, and left the room.

So, that’s where he is right now. It’ll probably be the only chance I get to write about our little escapade last night…I’ve written quicker than I ever have done in my life! Even still, Thom’s taken a century in the shower…he didn’t smell that bad! I’d better go and check he’s ok, and hasn’t locked himself in that only Thom could be clumsy enough to do…

Hahhaha
Gosh, they're so sweeeeeet!! ^_^

And Marie is my hero, that woman kicks ass!!
I love her! Haha

No,seriously, that was really sweet, and it showed clearly what she said about it seeming as if they hadn't spent so many years apart.

Looovely =)

Hey!

Thanks for the encouraging comment kukka (or should I call you 'fLOWER!'? lol) it's so great to get some positive feedback!! :shine:

Haha! I'm so glad someone finally appreciates her!! lol she deserves it!

Well, I'm glad you're enjoying how this is going - thanks so much for reading!! :yay:

Hope
xxx

23rd July 2004

The poets describe love as a dream, a wonder - as a miracle. They talk of how its power can leave you breathless, how its lingering touch can warm your soul for a lifetime... books and sonnets, ballads, fairy tales... they speak of enlightened spirits full to the brim, complete beings… hearts so full with emotion - emotion that one can neither deny nor explain…they speak of an overwhelming, indescribable truth – they speak of love, and I believe it all. I feel it all. I cannot eat. I cannot sleep. I can think of nothing else but him.

It was the early evening of last night. My tense body sat curled up in the small window seat, I had slept for a long time. I cried myself awake from a forgotten nightmare, hot tears rolling down my face, mirroring the shimmering raindrops spattering on the cool glass against my cheek. My hand was reaching out, desperately clawing, but grasping nothing but air. It had been an unintentional nap. Slowly, my eyes adjusted to the sudden darkness of my empty room. It had been filled with bright summer light when I had seen it last. I remembered – I had been watching the world go quickly by, thinking deeply and worrying for Paris. She had told me yesterday she’d been asked to return to hospital for more tests. Her doctor had said he can’t explain why her headaches are getting worse, more frequent… her fainting, why she should be so tired all the time…I know it has to be serious, and I could see in her eyes that she knows it, too, but she said I’m not allowed to worry. How can she say that? My best friend may be seriously ill, and I’m not to care… I am so afraid for her, I don’t know how to help…I offered to go with her to the hospital, but she said no. A seemingly cruel thing, but unbelievably, admirably strong, at that. She must be petrified, and there is nothing I can do. I had been feeling helpless and miserable, so had sought comfort in my old friend, the child’s window box once made for my sister.

Unusually for a weeknight, especially one on which mother was out gallivanting, I heard the doorbell ring. I waited for the inevitable shuffling of Marie’s slippered feet over the entrance hall floor, but when no such sound came, the bell sounded once more. ‘Where can she be....?’ I thought to myself, and concluded that she must be in the cellar.
Rushing downstairs, my ears strained to hear the sound of our maid’s constant humming coming from anywhere in the house. ‘Where the hell is she…?’ I struggled with the heavy oak door for a few seconds, fiddling with the locks, unable to see the closed latches clearly in the unlit hall. At last, I swung open the door only to get a bunch of wild flowers thrust into my face by Thom.
“Get your best dress on, girly, we’re going to the Opera.” From his inside pocket, he withdrew two white squares of card, inviting us to attend ‘Cosi con tutte – A celebration of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’.
“But…what?” I looked at him inquisitively, not being able to stop a smile spreading across my face. “Why? I…Thom, I can’t. Marie, she…”
“I rang…let her off for the night.”
“You what?! Why?!”
“She called me, told me about how upset you were. Figured you needed something to take your mind off things…” An impish smile. “So…here I am! I called her back a while ago…she mentioned something about a single’s night at the memorial hall…” Trying to hide his amusement, Thom snorted loudly with laughter.
“Thom, don’t be mean!” I laughed. “She’s a very sweet woman!” I jokingly hit him with the bunch of flowers I had gratefully accepted from his hands.
“Yeah, if maybe a little desperate…”
“Well…even so…!” Thom followed me into the entrance hall. That explained why all the lights were out, Marie had probably thought I was asleep. I was sure I’d find a note from her somewhere in my room explaining where she’d gone, I just hadn’t known to look for it. “This is really sweet of you, Thom. And these…” I sniffed the colourful petals of a pink daisy, “are beautiful. Where did you find them? There’s no florist around here…”
“Um….” He winced. “I….kinda….stole them.” I whirled around in shock, my eyebrows flew to the top of my forehead.
“Thom!!” I thrust them back at him. “I can’t take these now!!”
“Sure you can, I’m sure the council won’t miss them…they’re only from the park!” My face relaxed slightly.
“Oh, well…in that case…” I reached and took the flowers back from his outstretched hands. “They alright…I suppose!”
“Aw, shut up! At least I made an effort to cheer you up…and they’re better than nothing!”
“Thom, right now…they’re perfect. I don’t care where they came from…you bothered. Thank you.”
A satisfied smile. “No probs. So…you gonna go get changed? No offence, but…I, um, don’t think you’ll exactly fit in, wearing a basketball shirt and bed hair… ”
“Ouch, you really know how to hit a girl where it hurts!” I poked out my tongue and laughed at my own childishness. I watched Thom walk towards the sitting room, and as I watched him flip on the large TV in its centre. ‘He’ll be fine for a while…’

A short while later, I entered the lounge in an ivy green silk gown, and black pashmina scarf. The black shoes fastened tightly to my feet were a Christmas gift from Marie – beautiful, with black silky straps and a four inch heel - this was the perfect opportunity to christen them. Interrupting Thom’s programme, I announced my presence.
“I assume we’re getting a taxi…these shoes’ll kill me otherwise…” Thom stood, eyes still glued to the screen…slowly, his body turned, “Ok…um…just once sec… this is over soo-” throwing a quick glance in my direction, he did a double take.
“Whoa. Wow. You look…wow. Uh...good....you look...good. Amazing…” His green eyes repeatedly looking me up and down, I realised he was actually shocked I had made a particular effort –after all, I had needed to feel better about myself.
I reached for the remote and switched off the TV while he stood aghast, mouth gaping open.
“Thom. Shut up. Let’s just go.”

We made it to the Opera House, just a little late. In the dark, we apologetically made our way to our seats, squeezing past Gucci-clad knees and Versace heels. Just as we reached our seats, Thom literally fell into his chair and covered his face with the show programme. I sat beside him, embarrassed by the funny looks we were getting from the couple next to us.
“What the hell are you doing?!” I whispered. Thom poked an urgent finger repeatedly at the chair in front.
“Shit, shit, shit! It’s George.”
“Huh?”
“George.”
“George?!” Was I meant to know who this was?
“SHHH! Yes…George Morgan!”
“Oh my God. That George?!” I slumped further into my seat, almost falling to the floor. George Morgan is also an Elder of MG, like Thom.
“Will he recognise you?”
“Kiera…I went to high school with him, he’s my best friend, and he lives with me…I think he MIGHT!”
I rarely cursed, but couldn’t help it. “Shit.”
“Don’t worry, he won’t get a chance to see me. I can see from here.” The opera began, but I couldn’t help but giggle when my gaze wandered over to Thom. He looked so ridiculous, folded up in the small chair, legs squashed into the seat in front, programme covering most of his face except his eyes, intently staring at the stage. At the interval, I rushed to the restroom, and took down my hair, covering my face. George would most likely recognize me, and we couldn’t be spotted! What would the media make of it? I cursed myself for being stupid enough to not think of a ‘disguise’ before we left. I knew that it was too late to worry about that though, I couldn’t go back and change it. I returned to my seat, to find Thom hadn’t moved an inch. Oh well, it was certainly fun…if not for him, for me, anyway.

After the show (which was amazing!), Thom and I fled from the building before the final curtain hit the floor to avoid being seen. I think we were both on a natural high…being that close to being found out, the adrenaline rushing through our veins…it was… exhilarating to say the least! We left the station laughing like idiots, worrying even the tramp sleeping huddled in the entrance, and ran to cut the corner across Hyde Park. My shoes sank in the damp soil, and I ripped them off, giggling along, screaming without reason, my hand in Thom’s. It was then that the sprinklers decided to come on. We were both immediately drenched with water – a welcome relief from the stifling summer heat remaining of the day, however sunless the sky. Laughing all the harder, we ran around aimlessly, jumping through jets of water – time moved in slow motion, the night around us feeling endless and ours to do with whatever we wished… it felt as if we were making up part of the childhood Thom and I had missed together. Eventually, the water stopped, as did we. Out of energy, we collapsed onto the wet grass. I stared up at the sky, sighing a happily tired sigh, noticing how clear the night was, how beautifully crisp the stars.
“Wow,” I said, barely above a whisper.
“I know…Kiera…what was that?”
I giggled, “I don’t know, but it was fun!”
“Heh…yeh. It was…” I didn’t need to look at Thom to know he was looking at the sky with the same expression as I was – awe. I tuned my head towards him, watching him looking up at the sky. He sensed my eyes, and turned to look back at me.
“What?”
“What?!”
“Shut up.”
“Shut up.”
“Grow up.”
“Ok…sorry.” I feigned a quivering chin, and he feigned sympathy back.
“Awww, poor little Kiery…” His eyes stopped on my cheek. “Wait there, don’t move.” He sat on his side, and leant across me, pulling a pink blossom from my hair. His fingers lingered on my head, just for a second, but enough to notice. Our faces were inches apart, our noses almost touching, so close I could smell the bittersweet taste of wine on his breath. I was aware of my heart suddenly pounding in my chest, and all I could do was stare back up at him.
It should have come as a shock, but somehow didn’t.
“Kiera,” he whispered, and paused, narrowing his eyes. “I…I think I love you.”
“I…Thom… I think I love you, too,” I whispered back. His face remained above me, and searching the caverns of his eyes, I could feel his heartbeat through his shirt, pounding, just like mine.
“I’m scared.”
“Me, too,” he said, looking into my eyes.
“I don’t want to ruin anything,” I choked out, and I meant it.
“I know.”
As Thom’s face moved closer, as his lips brushed mine, my aching heart fluttered. I closed my eyes, took a breath, and looked up at him again.
Barely audible, “Screw it…” escaped my lips just as Thom’s mouth met with mine. Melting into his embrace, all doubt dispersed into the night air, along with the fear of losing him again - his kisses gentle, yet desperate in a way only meant for me, and in that moment, I knew it was right.

Oblivious to the world around me, I lay in his arms. For what felt like hours, I knew only of an endless kiss it seemed I had been waiting for all my life. My world was now Thom. I cared not for the stars, for the silver moon, not for the crystal sky or the warm summer breeze flowing through my wet hair. I could feel nothing … nothing except him.

In his tender kiss, I finally realised what I had been destined to discover in this boy. Finally discovered the truth in his beautiful eyes that only I was destined to see. After all this time I finally knew – I had never been waiting to forget, had never been waiting for closure, I had been waiting for this.

I have confided only in Marie. Somehow, it seemed, she knew. As I tried desperately to explain how I felt, she just nodded in understanding, a sly smile on her face.
“Miss Kiera. I knew it would happen. From the way you used to be together…never leaving one an other’s sides… I knew. No two people, however old you may have been, could care for each other more than that. Fate was waiting for the right time, girl. I trusted in it, though…and I knew that when the right time came, destiny would eventually bring you together again, and you would see it, too. You can’t keep soulmates apart, Miss Kiera. They always find each other…” And with that, she walked off.

I've saved this! and will reply later, but I've read the begiining and i think it's great hun! Gotta go! else I'll be killed if I'm found online! HEE!

:heartbeat: Pat

That last chapter was really sweet I can't read the next one cos I've got abible studying thing I need to go to but i'll be back. Glad you are writting again.

Hey guys!!

Ok first I have to apologise and say hi to Bloomiecurse!! Welcome to my story!! I'm so sorry I didn't notice your reply until now!! Thank you also for the response =) opinions are always useful!

Also....greeetings to Airefeaiel too. No problems about not managing to read it all - just to know that people are reading it a little is enough!! Thanks for taking the time to comment regardless!! *waves*

Anneka - we must catch up soon ok??? I reeeally have to call you! I miss you hun! I've been reading Lofters - don't know if you noticed, but I think you're doing a wonderful job!! :yay: You sound so busy, :bow: for keeping on track on with everything, even your writing! I could never do it! I hope you're enjoying yourself at uni when you're not rushing off somewhere!

Thanks for all the feedback girls - I'm so happy you've enjoyed the last couple installments, I put the most work into them so it's greatly appreciated!!

More up soon!

xxxxxx

AAAAAAAAWWWWWWWWW

cute
cute
cute
SOOOO
cute!!!

I loved it!! ^_^

They're the cutest thing ever and, damn! MARIE IS SO WISE! hahahaha! No, seriously, I'm gonna bow to that woman :bow: she's awesome!!

And yesss, it's so sweet!!

I just can't say anything else

I loved the sprinklers thing
It was a lovely sort of flashback of their childhood and again proof of how little things had changed between them, despite the distance
And now they're awww so cute

Still, having to hide.. Their political situation..
Hmm..
Not nice, if I recall well

And Paris is sick? :unsure:
That could bring trouble..

Loving it, Hope!! =)

is this fic dead? I hope not... :cry:

I am afraid it is really...

So sad, I thought it was a new story and just started reading.
Then I realise It is probably not going to be continued.

Talk about annoying things... I was really enjoying this.

Umm. Hey everyone.

I'm not sure if anyone is reading this anymore, I doubt it very much - I just wanted to let any of you know that were interested - I'm thinking of actually finishing it. I have just today had an interview for an American and English Literature with Creative Writing degree course, and I figure I'm gonna need some more practise if I want to make a decent go of my grades *if* I get in (I screwed up my interview rather horrendously!).

If anyone's interested in hearing how it goes, please let me know and I'll repost it as it (hopefully) progresses.

Hope everything is cool on EWAC - it's been a long time!!

xxxx