An Education: New Lives

Postby KP Presents » Tue Apr 22, 2014 2:34 am

The annual Music Evening at Holderness Manor was one of the things I have always enjoyed, but this year had a special resonance – one I had to admit I liked as I sat in the library, watching Andrew and Daniel Brown as they walked unsteadily from chair to chair. Grandmother and Grandfather were discussing the event next Wednesday with my father and Uncle Alexander.

“Hard to think they’re a year old now, isn’t it,” Mum said as she looked at me. I nodded silently – and it had been, if I wanted to put it less politely, one hell of a year.

Last May, I didn’t have a boyfriend – well, not in the full sense of the word. I also hadn’t been held hostage by a masked robber for the weekend, or any number of other things, but that was last year. Heck, at that time I’d only just got used to the idea I had a baby brother – especially one who was now dribbling on the knee of my jeans as he looked up at me.

“Hey Andy,” I said as I picked him up and sat him on my lap, “Want to see a magic trick?”

He giggled and nodded as I frowned, and then smiled again, frowned, smiled, frowned, smiled – and then rubbed her head on his tummy.

“Again!”

I looked at Mum, and then at Andrew, as he looked at me and said “Again!”

“Did he?”

“I do believe he just did,” Mum said quietly, “Who’s a clever young man?”

“Miigggglll” he burbled as the door opened and Dad came in with Sarah and Brian. She was looking tired, as if she wanted the pregnancy to come to an end.

“Simon!! You just missed his first word.”

“Not again,” he said with a groan. “Every one of my family, I’ve missed their first word. What pearl of wisdom did he impart, Anne?”

“Again.”

“What pearl of… Oh, I get it now,” Dad said as he tickled Andrew’s tummy. “Nice choice kiddo.”

“Our turn will come,” Brian said as he sat with Sarah.

“Not soon enough – I’m just glad Kayla is arriving today,” Sarah said with a groan. Kayla Smith was apparently their doctor, and was coming over to look after Sarah while she gave birth to the twins.

She and Brian had become an integral part of the family now, with them having their wedding last January at the manor house. I was one of the bridesmaids, alongside Angela, Jenny and our three American friends Heidi, Cindy and Natalie. Suzie and Cassie were the flower girls, while Anne Duncombe, who had helped all of us at one time or another over the last year, was the maid of honour.

We tend not to do quiet weddings at the manor, and this was no exception, with all her UK and US friends attending, and all the usual trappings. Yes, right down to at least one dance when we were all bound and gagged – but that’s a story for another day.

One other thing happened that day – Cassie’s Aunt Cassie proposed to her partner Jo, and their wedding was taking place tomorrow at a hotel outside Holderness. We were all invited, but it was going to be a much more low key affair.

Anyway, Jenny and the rest of her family were preparing for that day, which meant I was here with Mum looking after Danny Brown while his mum looked after Cassie and Jo, in her role of Maid of Honour.

“The last weeks are always the worst,” Mum said as she looked at Sarah. “When does she arrive anyway?”

As if on cue, the door opened and a thin, blonde haired woman came in. She walked up to Brian and Sarah and hugged both of them, before sitting and looking at my American relative.

“You’re looking well, all things considered,” she finally said as she looked at us. “Hi – I’m Kayla Smith. Anne and the others told me to say hello.”

“They’re not coming over?”

“Not immediately, no – they can’t get the time off. But they are thinking of and praying for you.”

“Thanks,” Sarah said as she held the young woman’s hand, and then groaned.

“Don’t tell me it’s contractions already – I didn’t sleep on the flight over because I was afraid /I would not make it in time!”

“No – they just kicked again. I’m not going to have any backbone left once they come out.”

“Come on, up you get,” Kayla said as she stood and took Sarah’s hand, helping her up with no effort at all.

“Have you been working out with Anne?”

“No comment,” Kayla said as she looked at me, and then they walked out.

“Does she think I don’t know,” I said as I looked at Brian.

“She’s from the South – they have their own ways,” Brian said with a smile. “Anyway, I need to get going – your father and I are going to watch the rugby at Twickenham today.”

“Oh yeah – the final. Enjoy yourselves.”

“We will,” Brian said as he stood up and left the room.

“Talking of which, don’t you need to get going? I seem to remember you saying you had some shopping to do in town for tomorrow?”

“Oh lord yes,” I said as I handed Andrew to Mum and stood up. “Dad – can you give me a lift…”





“Hey – I wasn’t expecting to see you before tomorrow,” Martin said as I went into the music shop.

“I know – but I need to pick up an order I made. Has it come in yet?”

“Oh yeah – your present to the bride and bride. Hang on a minute.” I watched as he disappeared into the back of the shop, and I heard him talking to his mum, before he came back out with a wrapped box.

“Here we go,” he said as he handed it to me, “the complete Charlie Parker at Savoy Records collection. I didn’t know Cassie Craig was into jazz?”

“Actually, it’s Jo who is, but never mind – Cassie can enjoy it as well.” I paid for the present and then said “So when are you getting there tomorrow?”

“About an hour beforehand – I don’t have anything to do this time, so this is one of the rare occasions we get to go just as guests. You?”

“About the same time I think, Andrew permitting. I think Eddie might take Angie separately from us, though.”

“The joys of growing up,” Martin said with a smile. “See you tomorrow then.”

“You bet,” I said as I reached over the counter and kissed him, before leaving the store and walking down the high street. I waved over at Mary as she walked down the other side, and then called into the florists. I wasn’t surprised to see Cathy behind the counter, smiling as she looked up.

“Hey – your order for tomorrow?”

“You got it,” I said as she went into the workshop at the back, and brought through a small box which she placed on the counter.

“There we go – two button holes and three floral arrangements, pre-paid.”

“Oh? By whom?”

“Jenny’s grandmother – she insisted that all the flowers were paid for by her. She came in yesterday with her brother.”

“Jethro? Well, this is really going to be a family affair, isn’t it?”

“Looks that way – see you tomorrow?”

I nodded and left the shop with my packages in my hand. It was just starting to rain, so I jumped into a taxi and got home, keeping them as dry as possible as I went inside.

“That you mum,” I heard Angela call down from upstairs.

“No – it’s me. I got the flowers for tomorrow.”

“Okay – want to put the kettle on? I want to talk to you about something.”

“Sure,” I said as I went into the kitchen and put the boxes on the table, filling the kettle and putting it on as I put coffee in two mugs.

“Hey,” Angela said as she came in, wearing an old school sweatshirt and leggings.

“Hey yourself,” I said as I added milk and the hot water to the mugs and then handed her one. “How’s the revision going?”

“Painfully slowly, but at least it’s going,” she said as she sat down and rubbed her eyes. “Did you see Sarah today?”

I nodded and said “Kayla arrived as well.”

“Good – I like her,” Angela said before she sipped her coffee. “Listen – I haven’t told Mum and Dad this yet, but Eddie had asked me if I want to go to France with him on holiday this summer. Do you think they’ll object?”

“I don’t think they will –so long as you’re around in August.”

“He’s thinking end of June, beginning of July – his exams and mine are over then.”

“Sounds good to me – I wish I had that extra freedom.”

“Oh your turn will come,” Angela said as she looked at me, “and then you’ll realise just how lucky you are at the moment. Enjoy it while you can, Kiddo – adulthood is coming.”

“You’re a real ray of sunshine today,” I said with a smile.

“Oh, and one other thing,” Angela said as she stood up and took her coffee mug with her, “Jenny called. Can you go round to her house at four for an hour? She says there’s something she wants to talk to you about.”

I looked at the clock on the kitchen wall, which said three fifteen. “Now she tells me,” I said as I shook my head and started to drink the coffee.

Forty minutes later, I walked up the path to Jenny’s front door and knocked.

“Hey,” she said as she opened the door, “thanks for coming round.”

“Sure – what’s up?”

“We’ll talk in my room,” she said as she took my hand and dragged me upstairs. Closing the door to her room behind her, she turned and watched as I sat on the bed.

“What’s up,” I said as I looked at her.

“Monday night.”

“Monday night… Monday night…. What about Monday night?”

She turned and looked at me. “You’ve forgotten, haven’t you?”

“I’ve…” I suddenly opened my eyes as I said “Yeah – I had. The shower.”

“Exactly – Mum says we’re expected to e there as well, but what are we going to get her?”

“Hey, you’re the one with twin siblings – what do you think?”

Jenny looked and me and said “I have no idea – you got any?”
Read stories of ordinary women in distress at http://www.kppresents.com

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby skybird137 » Tue Apr 22, 2014 4:28 am

A wonderful start as always, KP.
Calling Fifty Shades of Grey a Bondage Story is like calling Titanic an Iceberg Movie...

http://skybird137.deviantart.com

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby Tom Ford » Tue Apr 22, 2014 9:55 am

So it’s Alicia’s turn again, is it? Well, what can I say? I’ve always enjoyed it when she narrates, and I’m sure she can perfectly capture the essence of the events to come.

My, it will be a very busy story. First would be Aunt Cassie and Jo’s exchange of vows, then the baby shower for Monday. But the title will certainly mean that it would only be in a very short while before Sarah gives birth to Bart and Sarah. Then of course there’s Lord Holderness’ little “scare” as mentioned in the Williamsons and the Widow. By the way, would there be any meeting between The Williamsons and Brian and Sarah in these story?

I look forward to the next tale, and I hope for more tie ups! But I’m sure the games could be somehow integrated into it!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Tue Apr 22, 2014 10:33 am

Nice!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Tue Apr 22, 2014 10:34 am

This is going to be a fun set of events!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Tue Apr 22, 2014 10:35 am

Great start!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Tue Apr 22, 2014 11:40 am

Great chapter!!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby Imp Caesar Augustus » Tue Apr 22, 2014 7:34 pm

What a story!!! So many things will happen, I can't wait to see what happens next!!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby William F Somebody » Tue Apr 22, 2014 8:10 pm

We learn a few things.

Jo and Cassie senior are officially tying the knot!!

Jo likes Jazz, but not Cassie, but Cassie does not dislike them!

Kayla Smith, Sarah’s doctor, is here!

The baby shower will be on Monday!

Sarah’s babies’ kicks are making her miserable (and happy at the same time!)

Angela and Eddie will go to France! I wonder if her absence will coincide with some important stories!

Alicia is once again the narrator!

I wonder if the Williamsons will have a part? I am sure that John will invite his childhood friend to Jo and his sister’s wedding, but I hope we could see Brian and Sarah interact with Mark and Yvonne, and their relationship would be increased, so much so that in the next story, not only would they let them go after finding out about Jay and McPhee, but even actively encourage them to continue their criminal ways!!

This tale is looking up to be a very very good one!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Tue Apr 22, 2014 8:58 pm

Great update!!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Tue Apr 22, 2014 8:59 pm

PLease please update really really soon!!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Wed Apr 23, 2014 12:52 am

Hope you update soon!!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby KP Presents » Wed Apr 23, 2014 6:44 am

“Well, I suspect the mums will get more than enough for the babies,” Jenny said as she sat on her bed, “What about something for Sarah?”

“Got an idea?”

“Maybe – let’s meet up after school on Monday and get something on the way home.”

“Sounds good to me – where’s Cassie anyway?”

“Downstairs with Pippa, Claire and Hazel, I think they’re working on a project.”

“Really? I didn’t hear much from them when I came in.”

“Actually, now that you come to mention it…” We both went downstairs and into the front room, to see the four of them lined up in front of the television, sitting with their legs in the lotus position. Their legs were tied together where they crossed, and a rope ran from their ankles to their chest, where a second rope was tied round their arms.

Walking behind them, I saw their hands were behind their back, tied parallel to each other as they watched the film of The Iron Giant.

“They wanted time to appreciate the film in silence,” Jenny’s mum said as she came in, drying her hands on a towel. Walking back round, I saw now the clear tape over their lips, and the way their cheeks were puffed out.

“You four all right,” I said, and they all nodded before going back to watch the film.

“Drink?”

I nodded and followed Jenny and her mum into the kitchen, where the twins were sat in their high chairs, having their tea. David was sucking on a slice of carrot, while June was chewing away at a brown bread sandwich finger.

“You’re getting big as well, aren’t you,” I said as I tickled them under the chin.

June giggled while David grabbed my finger and shook it.

“So, ready for the fun tomorrow?”

“I think so – at least it will be a quiet wedding this time,” I said with a smile on my face.





It was a bright and clear Sunday morning as we arrived at the front entrance to the Rochester Hotel. “Well, here we are,” Dad said as we all got out, me in a pale cream jacket and skirt with a white blouse, Mum in a grey silk dress and dad in a suit, shirt and tie. Andy had on a little sailor suit, as I carried him into the hotel reception.

“Good morning,” Dad said to the lady behind the desk, “the Craig wedding.”

“The Moray suite,” the lady said, “to the right, and on the left.”

“Thank you,” Dad said as we walked down, Mum carrying a present wrapped in gold and white paper. As we entered the room, we were greeted by Jenny, who was wearing a blue dress with elbow length sleeves and a skirt that came to just below her knees, a white belt and gloves, and black heels with dark tights.

“Hey,” she said, “presents can be left on the table over there, and the drinks are at the bar.”

“Thanks,” I said as Mum placed the present on the table, and we walked over to where Colin was standing with his parents.

“She looks great, doesn’t she,” Colin whispered as I stood next to him.

“I’m sure she always looks great to you,” I said with a smile as Uncle Alexander came in with Bobby and Suzie. Both he and Bobby were also wearing suits, while Suzie was wearing a short sleeved blue dress with a white sash round her waist.

“Simon,” Uncle Alexander said as he joined us, “nice quiet affair eh?”

“I think so,” Dad said as he looked round. “Who are most of these people?”

“From Cassie and Jo’s previous work, I imagine,” Uncle Alexander said as we looked at the groups of people gathered round. One in particular caught my eye – a tall grey haired man who stood wearing a grey suit, blue shirt and striped tie.

“Is it just me,” I said to Dad, “or does he look familiar?”

“Who,” Dad said, as Grandmother and Grandfather came in. The tall grey haired man came forward and stood ramrod straight, as he said “Captain Holderness!”

“Colonel Grant,” Grandfather said as he stood as straight, and then they saluted each other before embracing. “God, how long has it been Donald?”

“Too long,” the man said as he hugged Lucinda. “How have you both been?”

“Fine,” Grandmother said, “but we were sorry to hear about Betty.”

“Yes – that was painful,” the man said as he looked round. “Alexander – how are you?”

“Not bad, thank you Sir,” Uncle Alexander said as he shook his hand. “This is Anne’s husband Simon and his daughter Alicia. Simon, this is Donald Grant.”

“THE Donald Grant? An honour,” Simon said as he shook his hand. “Alicia, Mister Grant worked with your grandparents when they had – a different job.”

“Mister Grant – I don’t think I can get used to that. So you know Cassandra and Joanne?”

“They’re friends of the family,” Dad said quietly, but how do you…”

“Donny Grant, you old rascal!”

“Miranda!” Mister Grant turned and embraced Jenny’s grandmother, who was wearing a green coat dress, hat and shoes, “How are you?”

“The better for seeing you – thank you for coming. I wasn’t sure if you would make it.”

“What, and miss two of the finest officers I ever commanded pledging their troth? Of course I would not miss this – and I see many of their colleagues have come as well.”

“Indeed – I’m glad – for them especially. Excuse me – I’ll see you later.” Miranda said as she went to join Grandmother and Grandfather. Grandmother as wearing a cream coloured dress with a matching jacket.

Jenny’s parents then came in, as did their Aunt Jessie, along with Mister and Mrs Williamson. I smiled at them as Mary came over with Cathy.

“Well, another wedding,” Mary said with a smile as I saw Eddie with Angela.

“Oh yes,” I said as Sarah and Brian came in. Sarah wore a pink smock over grey trousers, while Brian like the others was in a suit, shirt and tie. They stopped and talked to the Craigs and the Williamsons, smiling as they did so.

“Ladies and Gentlemen!!”

We all turned to see Jenny standing at a set of double doors.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, please take your seats.”

“Shall we,” Dad said as he took Mum’s arm and we walked in. As we did so, Cassie and Patty were standing inside, wearing the same dress as Jenny as they showed us to our seats.

Once we had sat down, the music started to play – a selection of what I believe Martin would call “Cool Jazz.”

“It is cool, isn’t it?”

I almost jumped out of my seat before I turned round and saw Martin sitting behind me with his parents.

“Sorry – couldn’t resist,” Martin said before he gave me a little kiss. As a door to the side opened, I saw Cassie and Connie Craig come out and into the room, standing in front of the white cloth draped table. Cassie was wearing a dark trouser suit and white blouse, with black ankle boots, while Connie wore a white long skirt with a blouse over it.

She smiled at all of us as the registrar came in and stood in front of the desk, her assistant to one side. “Will you please stand,” she said, and as we did so the music stopped, and the Louis Armstrong version of Here Comes The Bride played as the doors opened, and Jo came into the room, accompanied by Cassie and Jenny. She was wearing a white Edwardian style dress, with a high collar and a long skirt that flowed in layers down to the ground, and she held a posy of flowers in her hands.

She stood at the front, Patty coming down to join the other two, as the registrar stood in front of them. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here to see the joining of these two people in the state of matrimony. If there are any present who know of…”

The ceremony was very similar to a church one, but without the smells and bells, as Bobby is apt to put it. At any rate, within twenty minutes, I was wiping my tears as the registrar said “Therefore, by the power invested in me, I declare that you are now legally married. You may kiss your wife.”

“Now that is something I never thought I would hear,” Mum whispered as Jo and Cassie kissed each other, to the sound of cheers and clapping. They then turned and smiled at everyone as we sat back down.

“If you will both step this way, along with the witnesses?”

They walked over, joined by Brian as the photographer took pictures of them as they signed the register, witnessed by Connie Craig and Brian Holderness-Carter.

“I do so love a good wedding,” Mum whispered as we looked on, and waited for the legal part of the ceremony to finish. Once everything has been signed, we stood and clapped as Jo and Cassie left, accompanied by Brian and Connie, and then the three girls.

“Right,” Martin said as he put his hand on my arm, “would you care to go for a walk before the wedding dinner?”

“I’d like that,” I said as I went outside with him, while the rest of the guests moved out and stood in small groups.

“Nice day for it anyway,” Martin said as we walked round the grounds of the hotel.

“Yeah – it’s funny, being at a wedding and not having a part to play in it.”

“It’s good though – I get so nervous when I have to perform that it’s nice just to relax.”

“You? Nervous? When?”

“The time Bobby got me in the attic with you?”

I smiled at the memory of that, and said “Oh yeah – I’d forgotten about that for the moment. Still, that was the start of us, wasn’t it?”

“Yeah – but I was still nervous. Normally, I challenge that into my performance, but today no need – so I’m totally relaxed. Like I say, nice.”

I nodded a she put his arm round me and we walked across to where the photographs were been taken.

“Hey,” Jenny said, “we want a picture of all of us together. Come and join us.”

I smiled as Martin and I joined her and Colin, as well as Cassie and Bobby, and the photographer took a picture of us, and then started to take family group photos with Cassie and Jo.

“We need to go and do something,” Jenny said as she took Cassie and Patty, “see you in a few minutes.”
Read stories of ordinary women in distress at http://www.kppresents.com

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Wed Apr 23, 2014 8:56 am

Nice!!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby Imp Caesar Augustus » Wed Apr 23, 2014 9:57 am

That wedding was very sweet!!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Wed Apr 23, 2014 10:04 am

This wedding is very nice!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby Tom Ford » Wed Apr 23, 2014 10:28 am

I am so happy for Jo and Cassie. And it’s a treat to see Pippa, Hazel, and Claire! It’s been so long since we last saw them! I can’t remember what story it was. Coming Together, wasn’t it? Although it’s sad that the number of events in this story compressed the wedding, it was still fun to read through! And we have a new character, though I suspect a brief one! Colonel Donald Grant! I wonder if he has any bearing to the story?

Anyway, I still look forward to Desmond’s “Scare”, the birth, and of course, the baby shower!!

I wonder what presents Sarah and her babies will receive? I’m sure she’ll get baby clothes. Since she has both a boy and a girl, then the guests can just buy anything. If it’s for a girl, it’s for little Sarah. If it’s for a boy, it’s for Bart! And of course, little toys, milk bottles, cribs, diapers, etc.

And what could that scare be? Is there something from Desmond’s past that would like to do away with him, or just scare him? Or is it a health scare? He is getting on in age, and he won’t survive long, but we know he is good for the next tale. Hope it isn’t serious, but judging by the next tale, it would give enough concern to Alexander.

And what tie up games will happen? Perhaps Patty and Rachel could be tied up in the baby shower so they will “behave?” and Cassie and Suzie and Lisa will join them?

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby LordNelson » Wed Apr 23, 2014 12:51 pm

Wow! After reading the other replies it seems like I'm intruding on a family reunion!!!

I am new here and have not yet read enough of the other stories to know the characters as well as the other members seem to but I'm hoping that I can get caught up.

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby KP Presents » Wed Apr 23, 2014 12:55 pm

LordNelson wrote:Wow! After reading the other replies it seems like I'm intruding on a family reunion!!!

I am new here and have not yet read enough of the other stories to know the characters as well as the other members seem to but I'm hoping that I can get caught up.


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Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby Mister Mistoffelees » Wed Apr 23, 2014 1:18 pm

I find the intersection of baby shower and TUGs intriguing--not to mention all the honeymoon possibilities for Jo and Cassie... :quirk:
Welcome to Snowden! Enter at your own risk...

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Wed Apr 23, 2014 7:43 pm

Great chapter!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Wed Apr 23, 2014 8:29 pm

Great update!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Wed Apr 23, 2014 8:48 pm

Please please update really really soon!!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby William F Somebody » Wed Apr 23, 2014 8:56 pm

I forgot! Congratulations on Andy for his first word! I am so sorry that Simon missed the first word of his son, as well as that of his daughters!!

But I’m sure he will be at the other milestones, like his first walk?

Congratulations for Joanne (I thought it was Josephine) and Cassandra Senior for doing it! May they live the rest of their lives in happiness and peace! Though with the track record of both families, them living in peace seemed like hopeless task! But they can manage, I gather.

Glad that Martin get to be a guest, rather than a singer in this one. It has got to be a relief that he won’t be practicing this time, just watching.

Now I guess it’s time for the baby shower! Still, I hope there would be more focus in TUGs!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Wed Apr 23, 2014 8:58 pm

Hope you update soon!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby KP Presents » Fri Apr 25, 2014 2:49 am

“Where do you think they’re off to now,” I asked Bobby and Colin as we walked over.

“Duties – they have to show people to the tables for the reception.”

“Oh – they are taking them seriously, aren’t they?”

Bobby nodded as a man came out and said “Ladies and Gentlemen, please take your places for the reception.”

I joined Mum and Dad as we filed in, and Cassie showed us to the table we were sharing with Colin and his mum and dad.

“Well, at least they had a nice day for it,” his mum said as we sat down, and were joined by Martin and his parents.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, please by upstanding for the happy couple.”

We clapped like mad as Cassie and Jo came in and sat at the high table, joined by Connie and Brian, as well as Cassie’s mother and…

“Colonel Grant?”

“Well,” Dad said, “Jo’s parents both died when she was young, and she doesn’t exactly get on with the rest of her family. I guess he is the closest she has to a father.”

Cassie junior, Jenny and Patty also sat at the high table, as the meal was served. I liked it, and we talked about all sorts of different things as we ate – and Martin rubbed my leg with his foot under the table.

“Stop it,” I whispered as the man who had called us in stood up and said “Ladies and Gentlemen, pray silence for Miranda Craig.”

As Jenny’s grandmother stood up, she said quietly “Well, first of all, you get me instead of Cassandra’s father, but let me say this – if he had still been with us, he would have been as proud to stand here as he was for John, and would have been for Connie.

“David was a proud man, and he served his country with honour, but he also loved his children, and he would have wanted them to be happy and successful. They are, and so he would be happy as well – and I most certainly am.

“Jo, you are already part of our family, but today you made my Cassie a very happy woman, and I thank you for that. I don’t wish to say any more than that – but I know Donald wishes to say a few words.”

As she sat down, Colonel Grant stood up and looked at them.

“Cassie, Jo, I’ve known you both for many years, and I only want to echo what Miranda said. Your fathers would both have been very proud of you, what you have achieved, and what you have become. I offer you both my congratulations and my best wishes for the future, and ask all of you to raise your glasses and toast Cassie and Jo.”

“CASSIE AND JO!”

We all clapped again as Cassie stood up.

“I actually don’t have too much to say, except thank you all for coming, thank you for supporting us, and thank you for not being too formal – I had this horrible vision of Jo and I coming out under raised arms.”

“Still time,” one of her former colleagues called out, which made everyone laugh.

“Still, I want to thank Mum for arranging today, and we have a little something for her.”

I looked over to see Cathy carry in a large bunch of flowers and had them to Miranda, who smiled and said “thank you.”

“I also need to thanks our stewards for today – I’m not going to call them bridesmaids, because they were much more than that. Still, Jenny, Patty, and – dammit what’s the name of my other niece?”

Cassie looked daggers at her aunt, who smiled and said “Only kidding – Jenny, Cassie and Patty, thank you for all your help today, and once the meal is over, you can do whatever you want. But whatever you do – do not lose these.”

She handed each of them a thin white box, and said “Thank you. Finally, I want to thank Donald and all our former colleagues for coming, you honour us with your presence.

“And lastly, Jo – thank you for becoming my partner in everything. I love you.”

The two of them kissed as Cassie sat down, and Connie stood up.

“I get the Best Man role – which means I get to rip right into my darling sister,” she said with an evil grin, and then said “The thing is, I don’t want to. Even when we were kids, Cassie was the one who looked out for me, and the one who helped me in so many ways. That’s why it’s an honour for me to stand and support her today, and nothing will change that – although trust me, my back is telling me something different.”

She put her hand on her bump, and said “Now, there have been a few cards and messages sent, and it is my duty to read some of them. One or two are brown envelopes, and I will leave them for you to read privately.”

Connie picked up one card, opened it and read “Our heartiest congratulations – and good luck. June and George.”

Moving to the next card, she opened it and read “To the bravest women I know – thank you and may you both be richly blessed. Amy and Dorothy.”

As she opened the next card, Connie stared at it for a few moments, and then showed it to her mother. She looked up and nodded as Connie said “To Captains Craig and Frost, many congratulations on your wedding. William and Kate.”

Jo and Cassie looked at each other and then at Connie as she showed them the card, and then nodded.

“I… I think I just want to say well done, and ask you again to toast the happy couple.”

As we did so, Martin whispered to me “You don’t suppose…”

“Given their previous employment,” I said quietly, “it would not surprise me one bit.”

“And now,” the man called out, “the cutting of the cake.”

As we turned to look, Colonel Grant whispered something to Jo and Cassie, both of them nodding as they walked over to where the cake stood on a small table. He then stopped down and picked up a scabbard, holding it as Cassie pulled out a ceremonial sword. With both of them holding the hilt, they pushed down into the cake to applause and flashes going off.

“If you will retire to the bar,” the man said, “we will prepare for the dance.”

I went through and joined Jenny with Colin, finding her sitting in a corner with her feet up on a bar stool and a large glass of soft drink next to her.

“I am so glad that’s over,” she said with a sigh, “being a bridesmaid is bad enough, but this was worse.”

“What did they give you,” Colin said as we sat down. Jenny handed him the thin box, and he opened it reveal a set of pearls inside.

“Are these real,” he said as he held them up.

“Want to try dropping one in here, see if it dissolves?”

Colin looked at Jenny, before saying “I deserved that” and handing her the box back.

“I’m going to take a leaf out of Natalie’s book,” she said as she slipped her shoes off, and flexed her toes. “Ah – that’s better – so enjoy today?”

“Yeah,” Colin said, “but I’ll enjoy it more when the music starts.”

“Amen to that,” I said, “amen to that.”

And that prayer was answered an hour or so later, as the disco began and Jo and Cassie took the floor for their first dance – Eternal Flame by the Bangles. After that, it was a genuine free for all, with everyone up and dancing.

So when Mum came up to me and said “Can I borrow you for a minute or two, Alicia,” I did wonder what was going on. She took me off to a side room, where Angela was waiting.

“Any idea what this is about,” I said as Mum closed the door.

“None – Mum?”

“All will be explained in a few minutes,” she said as the door opened again, and Grandmother and Grandfather came in. They were followed a few minutes later by Uncle Alexander and Aunt Susan, as well as Dad.

“Okaayyyy,” I said as the door closed once again, “want to tell me and Angela what this is all about?”

“We’re going to tell you something,” Aunt Susan said, “but we need to ask you to keep it a secret until later this week, when I have been to get some test results.”

“You must not tell anyone – especially Bobby and Suzie. We’ll tell them ourselves as soon as we know for certain,” Uncle Alexander added.

“Tell them what,” I said, and then I noticed Angela had her hand to her mouth.

“Oh my god,” she said quietly, “are you?”

Aunt Susan smiled and nodded, and suddenly I understood the news as well.

“How far…”

“Not far – a month or so, but I’m so regular and – well, you just know. I see the doctor tomorrow, and if it is confirmed, I’ll tell everyone after the baby shower.”

Well, there was only one correct and proper response to this, as we hugged Uncle Alexander and Aunt Susan.





“Here – I think she will like this.”

I looked over at Jenny as she stood a little further down the aisle in The Body Shop, looking at some of the beauty packs. Walking over to join her, I looked at her and then the Body Spa pack she was holding in her hands.

“Perfect,” I said, “let’s get it.” We were both still in school uniform, on a budget and on a deadline, so we went to the counter, paid for it and some giftwrap, and literally ran to the card shop to find a suitable card.

We then retired to a coffee shop, and sat down with a cold drink each while I filled in the card.

“There,” I said as I signed and passed it to Jenny, “you add your name, and then we can get home to get changed.”

“Want me to bring it with me to Wissenden?”

“If you could – I need to get home and…” I then remembered I was not meant to say anything to Jenny about another possible announcement, so I bit my lip and stayed quiet.

“What’s up?”

“Oh, nothing,” I said as I saw Dad in the coffee shop window, smiling and pointing to his watch. “I gotta go – see you there.”

“Sure,” Jenny said as I grabbed my bag and headed out. “Heard anything,” I said as I got into the car.

“Yes and yes – if you can get changed quickly, we’re having dinner at the hall, and we’ll be there when they tell Suzie and Bobby.”

Well, of course I could change quickly, out of the uniform and into a pale green short sleeved dress, before I joined the rest of the family and we drove out to Wissenden Hall. When we arrived, we saw Mister Bridges opening the door of the car as Sarah and Brian got out, followed by my grandparents.

“Shall we,” Grandfather said as Mrs Boyle opened the front doors, and we entered Wissenden Hall.

“Congratulations,” Mum said as she hugged Uncle Alexander and Aunt Susan. “So, have you told them yet?”

“No – and this is as good a time as any.”

“Told them what,” Sarah said as we went into the front room. Uncle Alexander opened the door to the library and said “Bobby, Suzie, join us for a minute will you?”

We looked at them as they came through, still in their school uniforms, while Brian helped Sarah to sit down.

“What’s up,” Bobby said as he looked at us. “Strange as this may sound coming from me, I want to finish this essay before dinner.”

“Don’t worry, it won’t take a moment,” Aunt Susan said, “we just wanted to ask your advice on something.”

“Oh,” Suzie said, “what?”

“We’re going to need to convert one of the spare bedrooms into a different use,” Uncle Alexander said, “and the question is, which one?”

“Depends,” Bobby said, “What are you going to convert it into? Another office? A games room?”

“Actually,” Uncle Alexander said as he took Aunt Susan’s hand, “we were thinking of a nursery.”

“A…” Bobby and Suzie looked at each other, before Suzie said “Are you saying…”

“Yes,” Aunt Susan said with a smile, “You’re going to have a baby brother or sister.”
Read stories of ordinary women in distress at http://www.kppresents.com

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Fri Apr 25, 2014 4:00 am

What fun!!!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby John Kennon Smith » Fri Apr 25, 2014 4:03 am

To Cassie and Jo!!

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby Tom Ford » Fri Apr 25, 2014 4:58 am

New Life! New Life!!

When I thought of new life, I was envisioning the birth of Sarah’s twins. But with the announcement in this update, it also meant Susan’s new baby! Oh boy, after all these years, Suzie and Bobby will finally be followed!

So let’s make a list of the new family members! It would be babies galore!!

Let’s see.

Andrew Bowden
June and David John Craig
Daniel Brown
Bartholomew and Sarah Holderness-Carter
Connie’s second baby
Susan’s third baby

That’s eight babies growing up! But Bart and Sarah will grow up in Maine presumably, but I hope they visit often so they know the other members of their generation!!

Anyway, the reception for the Jo and Cassie was beautiful! The real surprise was the message from William and Kate! I wonder if they represented HM the Queen, or the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, or do the message just represent themselves?

I am so looking forward to the baby shower!

Hope we can have more tie up games in that as it would be a private party! Perhaps the girls could have a race while hogtied across the hall for the entertainment of Sarah? And then an escape challenge?

Re: An Education: New Lives

Postby Imp Caesar Augustus » Fri Apr 25, 2014 6:43 am

Now that I didn't expect! Who knew Susan and Alexander would be parents once more?