| Beyond my Dreams! By Sharon Holtz Chapter Nine |
And so after Vincent's reassuring words, Pascal hesitantly answered, "Not me
directly...but he did hurt you and Father! Have you forgotten when he left us all
those years ago, how devastated you both were? Have you forgotten, it was
because of him, you first lashed out in anger, causing you to question your
nature? And what about Father? Do you remember how guilty he felt about
Devin running away? Father was so lost! But it seems like everyone is just so
willing to forget about all his thoughtless acts, and welcome him back home
without question! Myself included!"
Softly, Vincent replied, "I haven't forgotten how Devin broke Father's
heart...and mine...however, I have tried to put it behind in the past, so we can
move beyond the hurt."
Self-consciously, Pascal looked downward, and said, "I guess you are a bigger
person than I Vincent, and I admit when I first saw him standing there with you
and Father, I too was so happy to see him! Never giving a thought to the past.
But the old resentment just crept back into my heart. And I know you are
right...things are maybe better left in the past...and forgotten."
Genuinely, Vincent said, "Yes...the hurtful things, however there are some
which must not be...and Pascal, I haven't forgotten it was you, who stayed with
me both day, and night along with Father when I lost myself. We have never
spoken about it, but I haven't forgotten...or thanked you directly...but I sensed
you knew..."
Modestly, Pascal looked downward, and said, "I did..."
With concern, Vincent then expressed, "I suppose looking on from your
vantage...Devin needs to earn his way back in. But Father told me, he is just so
thankful he came home, he doesn't want to make the same mistakes, and push
him away again. I am sorry his standing here is achieved so effortlessly."
You don't need to apologize to me...I am sorry, I had no right to speak ill of
your brother."
Firmly, Vincent replied, "You have every right...you work tirelessly to keep us
safe, and many times, unfortunately, our only reward, is our own gratification
we derive from our efforts. But know you are as much as a brother to me as
Devin."
Sincerely, Pascal told Vincent, "I have always thought of you that way, and I
guess sometimes, I must admit, I do resent him for always landing on his feet,
facing life in his precarious way."
As a subtle laugh escaped, Vincent admitted, "He does, doesn't he..."
He then thoughtfully explained, "...however right or wrong Pascal, I suppose if
we are too easy on him, it is only because, as per experience, if we don't accept
Devin on his terms, we won't have him in our lives at all. And he being Father's
biological son, it is too large a price to pay."
Warmly, Pascal expressed, "Yes, well there's a lesson to be learned here, and I
will try to be less judgmental of him in the future."
After sharing an embrace, Vincent and Pascal decided they should join the
kitchen cleanup crew, and after the Dining Hall was tidied up, the entourage was
ready to head for the tour of Ronald's new chamber.
Click on Link to See Ronald's Chamber
Excitedly, Mary and Rebecca lead the group through the tunnels, as they wished
to be the first to present it to Ronald.
At first sight, Ronald absolutely loved the décor, and thanked the women, and
work crews alike, for the work that was done on his behalf.
Catherine reappeared from their neighboring chamber, with some freshly
brewed tea, and zucchini bread squares, to serve everyone at the impromptu
house warming party. She then looked around, and offered her opinion of
Ronald's new home chamber by saying, "Mary and Rebecca, you did a
wonderful job decorating! I think it is so nice and homey."
To which Rebecca stated, "It really was all Mary, I just helped her move things
about."
Everyone then began teasingly calling Mary the Interior Decorator, because
everyone was so impressed by her talent. And who knew? It really was not until
the existence of the expansion tunnels, that Mary had a chance to do any
decorating.
She humbly admitted, she so loved putting the finishing touches on the new
chambers, and she eagerly was standing at the ready, to do her decorating thing,
for anyone else who might ask!
Just then Jennifer appeared at the threshold, and said, "Hi Ronny, hey! I didn't
know there was a party!"
Ronald greeted her, and after a welcoming hug, he explained how he had no
idea there was going to be a party! It just sorta erupted!"
Excitedly, Catherine asked Jennifer how she liked Ronald's new chamber, and
after Jennifer checked everything out, she said she absolutely loved the place.
Thoughtfully, she agreed with Catherine, it was very cozily done, and said Mary
definitely had it going on in the good taste department.
Catherine offered her some zucchini bread, and expressed how glad she was,
Jennifer just happened to venture down to the tunnels for a visit tonight.
To which Jennifer anxiously told her, "With all the excitement of Ronny's new
place here, I almost forgot why I came! Your order arrived this afternoon, I
knew you and Vincent were hoping to receive it, before tomorrow."
Questionably, Vincent asked, "Are you referring to our drafting supplies and
tables?"
To which Jennifer happily said, "Yes...and its all in the basement."
Catherine excitedly looked up at her husband, and couldn't help but smile when
she saw the joyfulness within his eyes. And the delivery was perfect timing too,
because just tonight after Supper, he had voiced his disappointment, of how
they will have to begin their class tomorrow without their drafting tools.
And so she said, "How wonderful Vincent. Now we will be fully prepared."
Dreamily, he huskily replied, "Yes..."
Ronald then offered, "If you want, I'll help you haul it over to your chamber,
and set it all up tonight."
With a tipping nod of his head, he gratefully answered his friend, "Thank you,
yes, I would appreciate your help Ronald."
And so right after the party broke up, Ronald and Vincent brought down the
several boxes of supplies. After entering their chamber, Vincent found Catherine
in one of the empty alcove's within, and compliantly asked his wife, "Is this the
alcove you want for our workspace?"
With certainty, Catherine answered, "Yes, because this is the only alcove large
enough for both of our tables."
She then worriedly asked, "Unless you wanted us to each have an alcove of our
own..."
With a smile in his eyes, Vincent answered, "No. I in fact had hoped, we would
be working side by side Catherine."
With relief, Catherine happily said, "Oh good, me too. Then its settled, this
alcove will be our den!"
And so Catherine and Jennifer sat and watched, while Vincent and Ronald built
the two tables, and laughed along with the two men, as they joked of how the
directions were actually easy to follow for a change.
After the task of building the drafting tables was completed, Catherine served
some tea, and the four sat in the little kitchen area, excitedly talking about the
details of their classes, and made plans to meet Jennifer, in the parking garage
tomorrow.
Growing tired, Jennifer yawned, and looked down at her watch and said, "Oh
my! It is getting late! I better head for home."
Gallantly, Ronald offered, "I'll walk you."
Happy her night was improving by the minute, she smiled at him and replied,
"Sounds wonderful."
She then said goodnight to the newlyweds and headed above with Ronald.
After they left, Catherine and Vincent emptied the last box of reference books,
and placed them on the shelves.
Anxiously, Catherine then sat at her table, and said, "This is so cool! My own
drafting table!"
She then coaxed, "Sit down at your table Vincent! Don't you want to try yours
out for size?"
Though he was wanting to, he felt a little silly, sooooo, it took a little bit of
prodding from his wife to get him to play along.
Matter-of-factly, she then reasoned, "We do have to make sure its the right
height don't we? Come on please! I want to see how you are gonna look,
working away at your table."
And so ultimately, Vincent did, and as he rested his arms on the slanted surface,
he looked at Catherine and said, "Well, what do you think?"
Click here to see Vincent and Catherine
With a raised brow, she said, "Just as I suspected, you look like you belong
there..."
Feeling encouraged, he brought out his drafting pencil, and held it in his hand.
With an assured demeanor, he replied, "I feel as if I do belong here."
He then gazed back at his wife, and after mentioning the hour was quite late, he
then suggested, it was time they get some rest. And so as Vincent helped his
wife from her wooden stool, they put out the torches, and walked arm in arm to
their bed chamber.
The next day, immediately after breakfast, Catherine lead her little entourage
over to the next tunnel, where the hospital chamber was housed. Calling out to
Jacob, she announced their arrival.
Joyfully, Jacob stepped to the threshold, wiping his sanitized hands dry, and
with a smile he welcomed them within the hospital's alcove, where he felt it was
safe for them, and where Eric could hear them clearly.
As Jacob accepted the homemade Get Well cards for Eric from the children, he
warmly told them, how important it was to always visit the sick, and of how
today's concert, would boost Eric's spirit greatly.
Catherine smiled as she noted the pride in the eyes of all the mini humanitarians,
and knew Jacob was using this good deed, for a reason to emphasize one of
life's important lessons to the children.
Catherine then handed Jacob the cards the children made for him, and for a
minute he was confused, and said, "More for Eric?"
To which the children all chimed in that they were for him!
Warmed by the sentiment, he said, "Thank you all! As much as I would love to
read them right now, I will wait...as Eric is most anxious for the concert to
begin."
He then motioned to Catherine, they could begin, and he said he would step
back to be at Eric's side during the concert.
The songs ranged greatly in style, and also in tone! There were a few squeakers
in the bunch, but all in all, they sounded wonderful.
And Jacob really enjoyed his song too!
Afterwards, Eric and Jacob applauded, and told them all, thank you for the
songs and the cards.
Catherine stepped closer, so she could be heard and said, "Eric, I miss you so
much, and as soon as Father says it is all right, I am going to give you such a
hug. I love you sweetie."
Secretly, she hid her tears, as she heard Eric reply, "I wish I could be with you
and the kids."
Confidently, she told him, "Just a few more days, and you will be. I will even let
you pick out our next book to celebrate! How does that sound?"
Happily, Eric said, "Great! I know which one too! It's gonna be my new book
Peter just sent down to me, titled, Einstein Adds a New Dimension!"
Jacob was still at Eric's side during this exchange, and he couldn't help but be
taken aback by his literary choice, and told him how very pleased he was with
his expanding intellect!
Catherine and the children said their good-byes, and promised to visit again
tomorrow.
Meanwhile, Vincent was delivering, one of the pieces of furniture, Mary had
chosen from the renovation chamber.
Caringly, Mary cautioned, "Be careful Vincent! This is a heavy piece of
furniture! Maybe you should get someone to help you! I don't want you to get a
hernia!"
With a burst of adrenalin, he moved it a little more, and said, "Don't worry so
Mary."
And just as he finished pushing the heavy dressing table into place, he tipped his
head, and knowingly told Mary, "I hear Catherine and the children."
Excitedly, Mary said, "They must be coming from the hospital chamber. Let's
go see."
Vincent stepped to the chamber's threshold, and poised with his hands on his
hips, he breathlessly said, "Hello Catherine, children. Tell us, how did Eric like
the concert?"
In reply, the children all shouted at once, that their concert was terrific!
Just then, Jamie, Laura and Brooke approached Catherine and explained, they
had a hike planned for the children today, and they wanted to go to the mirror
pool. Eagerly, Jamie added, "Since it is a bit of a hike, we were hoping to get
started..."
Laura then signed, asking, "Is it all right if we take them with us now?"
Thinking a hike sounded like a lot of fun for the children, Catherine happily
said, "Of course!"
The children all squealed expletives of delight, and just as they thought life
couldn't get any better, Brooke held up a picnic basket, and boasted, "William
even packed us a picnic basket!"
Over the cheers, Mary, Vincent and Catherine, told them to have a good time.
As the brood trailed on, Catherine sadly expressed, "Poor Eric. It is quite hard
on him being sick. He would have loved going on this hike with the rest of the
children."
With a commiserating manner, Mary optimistically said, "It won't be long Dear,
and he will be running with the pack again."
Wanting some details about the concert, Vincent asked, "So Eric did enjoy your
visit today?"
As Catherine turned back to answer, she saw her brawny husband had sweat on
his brow. So she took her hankie, and wiped off the perspiration to help refresh
him, and happily added, "Oh yes! And I think Father enjoyed our visit too. The
children made cards for him too, and there was a song or two included for his
benefit."
To which Mary eagerly said, "Cards too? Oh splendid! Well, I am sure Father
did enjoy your visit! How could he not? Music and correspondence all in one!"
Mary then thoughtfully added, "I think Father is getting cabin fever, but I have
offered repeatedly to relieve him, but he insists on being isolated along with Eric.
I don't think he has forgiven himself yet for little Ellie's death. And he is bound
and determined, nothing even close to that terrible event in our history, repeats
itself."
In agreement, Vincent replied, "Though he has not spoken of it lately, I know
you are right Mary..."
Still grieving herself, for the little girl who died in her arms, Catherine softly said,
"I think we all felt a little bit at fault for not being able to save Ellie."
With a stunning calm, Mary said, "Yes, and we will all work through those
feelings...the passage of time, will also bring us peace. Then suddenly one
day...when we think of Ellie, we will be able to smile again."
Vincent and Catherine, both felt at a loss for words, for they knew Mary lived
through the tragedy of losing her own children, before she came to the tunnels.
What could they possibly add to her words of wisdom, concerning the healing of
a broken heart.
Wheeling the wooden cart, Mouse approached them, and announced, "Here is
the chest you wanted Mary. Where should it go?"
Turning to Mouse, Mary excitedly told him, "Right over here! Thank you for
bringing it straight away Mouse! I was most anxious to re-arrange my chamber
with the two new pieces you and Vincent were so kind to bring over for me."
Vincent humbly said she was welcome, and then turned to ask, "Do you need
help with the chest Mouse?"
To which Mouse admitted, "It is heavy...maybe so."
And as they worked together, Mary smiled, feeling so pleased, Vincent reached
out to Mouse in such a way. And as Arthur danced on top of the chest as they
moved it, both Mouse and Vincent couldn't help but laugh at the little rascal,
even though he made the chest harder to maneuver!
Catherine and Mary laughed too, and though Mary laughed, she was concerned
his nails may scratch the vintage wooden chest! And so, not wanting to be too
harsh on Mouse's animal again after the bubble incident, she kindly shooed him
off, saying, "Arthur! Careful dear...don't scratch the surface now!"
As Arthur jumped back on his perch, which was Mouse's shoulder, they were
then able to place the chest where Mary wanted it.
Mouse appreciating the kinder tone, replied, "See Arthur listens good Mary!
Don't need to scare him with a broom!"
Mary humbly repeated, "I know Mouse...I apologized for scaring him, and
promised it won't happen again."
To which Mouse looked up at his furry friend, and replied, "Arthur knows you
are sorry Mary!"
Mary then cleared her throat, as she felt so badly about her attacking Arthur,
and she really hoped, this was the last time Mouse would bring it up!
Mary, then heaved a sigh, and as she looked about, she changed gears, and
exclaimed, "Exquisite! Thank you both."
She then admitted, "I think with all the renovations going on, it gave me
inspiration to do just a little something different here in my own chamber.
Change kind of gives you a lift, doesn't it!"
Catherine smiled, as she agreed, saying, "You are right Mary. It kinda does."
Mouse then excitedly said, "Better go, wanna meet up with them at the mirror
pool."
To which Catherine said, "The girl's didn't say anything about you going too.
That's too bad they didn't wait for you Mouse."
With a sly smile, Mouse replied, "They don't know I am going..."
Vincent patted his friend on the shoulder, and expressed, "I hope you are not
planning on pulling any pranks on them."
Looking a little guilty, Mouse admitted, "Arthur and me are going to hide above
the pool, on a crag, and drop pebbles in while they were looking into the mirror
pool."
Catherine giggled, and said, "That should add some fun to their adventure!"
With caution, Mary said, "WELL be careful neither you or Arthur drop in too!"
They all then bade safe travels to Mouse, and included his friend Arthur as well.
And as it was time for the newlyweds to say goodbye to Mary too, Vincent then
escorted his wife to the library.
To be continued
Chapter Ten
directly...but he did hurt you and Father! Have you forgotten when he left us all
those years ago, how devastated you both were? Have you forgotten, it was
because of him, you first lashed out in anger, causing you to question your
nature? And what about Father? Do you remember how guilty he felt about
Devin running away? Father was so lost! But it seems like everyone is just so
willing to forget about all his thoughtless acts, and welcome him back home
without question! Myself included!"
Softly, Vincent replied, "I haven't forgotten how Devin broke Father's
heart...and mine...however, I have tried to put it behind in the past, so we can
move beyond the hurt."
Self-consciously, Pascal looked downward, and said, "I guess you are a bigger
person than I Vincent, and I admit when I first saw him standing there with you
and Father, I too was so happy to see him! Never giving a thought to the past.
But the old resentment just crept back into my heart. And I know you are
right...things are maybe better left in the past...and forgotten."
Genuinely, Vincent said, "Yes...the hurtful things, however there are some
which must not be...and Pascal, I haven't forgotten it was you, who stayed with
me both day, and night along with Father when I lost myself. We have never
spoken about it, but I haven't forgotten...or thanked you directly...but I sensed
you knew..."
Modestly, Pascal looked downward, and said, "I did..."
With concern, Vincent then expressed, "I suppose looking on from your
vantage...Devin needs to earn his way back in. But Father told me, he is just so
thankful he came home, he doesn't want to make the same mistakes, and push
him away again. I am sorry his standing here is achieved so effortlessly."
You don't need to apologize to me...I am sorry, I had no right to speak ill of
your brother."
Firmly, Vincent replied, "You have every right...you work tirelessly to keep us
safe, and many times, unfortunately, our only reward, is our own gratification
we derive from our efforts. But know you are as much as a brother to me as
Devin."
Sincerely, Pascal told Vincent, "I have always thought of you that way, and I
guess sometimes, I must admit, I do resent him for always landing on his feet,
facing life in his precarious way."
As a subtle laugh escaped, Vincent admitted, "He does, doesn't he..."
He then thoughtfully explained, "...however right or wrong Pascal, I suppose if
we are too easy on him, it is only because, as per experience, if we don't accept
Devin on his terms, we won't have him in our lives at all. And he being Father's
biological son, it is too large a price to pay."
Warmly, Pascal expressed, "Yes, well there's a lesson to be learned here, and I
will try to be less judgmental of him in the future."
After sharing an embrace, Vincent and Pascal decided they should join the
kitchen cleanup crew, and after the Dining Hall was tidied up, the entourage was
ready to head for the tour of Ronald's new chamber.
Click on Link to See Ronald's Chamber
Excitedly, Mary and Rebecca lead the group through the tunnels, as they wished
to be the first to present it to Ronald.
At first sight, Ronald absolutely loved the décor, and thanked the women, and
work crews alike, for the work that was done on his behalf.
Catherine reappeared from their neighboring chamber, with some freshly
brewed tea, and zucchini bread squares, to serve everyone at the impromptu
house warming party. She then looked around, and offered her opinion of
Ronald's new home chamber by saying, "Mary and Rebecca, you did a
wonderful job decorating! I think it is so nice and homey."
To which Rebecca stated, "It really was all Mary, I just helped her move things
about."
Everyone then began teasingly calling Mary the Interior Decorator, because
everyone was so impressed by her talent. And who knew? It really was not until
the existence of the expansion tunnels, that Mary had a chance to do any
decorating.
She humbly admitted, she so loved putting the finishing touches on the new
chambers, and she eagerly was standing at the ready, to do her decorating thing,
for anyone else who might ask!
Just then Jennifer appeared at the threshold, and said, "Hi Ronny, hey! I didn't
know there was a party!"
Ronald greeted her, and after a welcoming hug, he explained how he had no
idea there was going to be a party! It just sorta erupted!"
Excitedly, Catherine asked Jennifer how she liked Ronald's new chamber, and
after Jennifer checked everything out, she said she absolutely loved the place.
Thoughtfully, she agreed with Catherine, it was very cozily done, and said Mary
definitely had it going on in the good taste department.
Catherine offered her some zucchini bread, and expressed how glad she was,
Jennifer just happened to venture down to the tunnels for a visit tonight.
To which Jennifer anxiously told her, "With all the excitement of Ronny's new
place here, I almost forgot why I came! Your order arrived this afternoon, I
knew you and Vincent were hoping to receive it, before tomorrow."
Questionably, Vincent asked, "Are you referring to our drafting supplies and
tables?"
To which Jennifer happily said, "Yes...and its all in the basement."
Catherine excitedly looked up at her husband, and couldn't help but smile when
she saw the joyfulness within his eyes. And the delivery was perfect timing too,
because just tonight after Supper, he had voiced his disappointment, of how
they will have to begin their class tomorrow without their drafting tools.
And so she said, "How wonderful Vincent. Now we will be fully prepared."
Dreamily, he huskily replied, "Yes..."
Ronald then offered, "If you want, I'll help you haul it over to your chamber,
and set it all up tonight."
With a tipping nod of his head, he gratefully answered his friend, "Thank you,
yes, I would appreciate your help Ronald."
And so right after the party broke up, Ronald and Vincent brought down the
several boxes of supplies. After entering their chamber, Vincent found Catherine
in one of the empty alcove's within, and compliantly asked his wife, "Is this the
alcove you want for our workspace?"
With certainty, Catherine answered, "Yes, because this is the only alcove large
enough for both of our tables."
She then worriedly asked, "Unless you wanted us to each have an alcove of our
own..."
With a smile in his eyes, Vincent answered, "No. I in fact had hoped, we would
be working side by side Catherine."
With relief, Catherine happily said, "Oh good, me too. Then its settled, this
alcove will be our den!"
And so Catherine and Jennifer sat and watched, while Vincent and Ronald built
the two tables, and laughed along with the two men, as they joked of how the
directions were actually easy to follow for a change.
After the task of building the drafting tables was completed, Catherine served
some tea, and the four sat in the little kitchen area, excitedly talking about the
details of their classes, and made plans to meet Jennifer, in the parking garage
tomorrow.
Growing tired, Jennifer yawned, and looked down at her watch and said, "Oh
my! It is getting late! I better head for home."
Gallantly, Ronald offered, "I'll walk you."
Happy her night was improving by the minute, she smiled at him and replied,
"Sounds wonderful."
She then said goodnight to the newlyweds and headed above with Ronald.
After they left, Catherine and Vincent emptied the last box of reference books,
and placed them on the shelves.
Anxiously, Catherine then sat at her table, and said, "This is so cool! My own
drafting table!"
She then coaxed, "Sit down at your table Vincent! Don't you want to try yours
out for size?"
Though he was wanting to, he felt a little silly, sooooo, it took a little bit of
prodding from his wife to get him to play along.
Matter-of-factly, she then reasoned, "We do have to make sure its the right
height don't we? Come on please! I want to see how you are gonna look,
working away at your table."
And so ultimately, Vincent did, and as he rested his arms on the slanted surface,
he looked at Catherine and said, "Well, what do you think?"
Click here to see Vincent and Catherine
With a raised brow, she said, "Just as I suspected, you look like you belong
there..."
Feeling encouraged, he brought out his drafting pencil, and held it in his hand.
With an assured demeanor, he replied, "I feel as if I do belong here."
He then gazed back at his wife, and after mentioning the hour was quite late, he
then suggested, it was time they get some rest. And so as Vincent helped his
wife from her wooden stool, they put out the torches, and walked arm in arm to
their bed chamber.
The next day, immediately after breakfast, Catherine lead her little entourage
over to the next tunnel, where the hospital chamber was housed. Calling out to
Jacob, she announced their arrival.
Joyfully, Jacob stepped to the threshold, wiping his sanitized hands dry, and
with a smile he welcomed them within the hospital's alcove, where he felt it was
safe for them, and where Eric could hear them clearly.
As Jacob accepted the homemade Get Well cards for Eric from the children, he
warmly told them, how important it was to always visit the sick, and of how
today's concert, would boost Eric's spirit greatly.
Catherine smiled as she noted the pride in the eyes of all the mini humanitarians,
and knew Jacob was using this good deed, for a reason to emphasize one of
life's important lessons to the children.
Catherine then handed Jacob the cards the children made for him, and for a
minute he was confused, and said, "More for Eric?"
To which the children all chimed in that they were for him!
Warmed by the sentiment, he said, "Thank you all! As much as I would love to
read them right now, I will wait...as Eric is most anxious for the concert to
begin."
He then motioned to Catherine, they could begin, and he said he would step
back to be at Eric's side during the concert.
The songs ranged greatly in style, and also in tone! There were a few squeakers
in the bunch, but all in all, they sounded wonderful.
And Jacob really enjoyed his song too!
Afterwards, Eric and Jacob applauded, and told them all, thank you for the
songs and the cards.
Catherine stepped closer, so she could be heard and said, "Eric, I miss you so
much, and as soon as Father says it is all right, I am going to give you such a
hug. I love you sweetie."
Secretly, she hid her tears, as she heard Eric reply, "I wish I could be with you
and the kids."
Confidently, she told him, "Just a few more days, and you will be. I will even let
you pick out our next book to celebrate! How does that sound?"
Happily, Eric said, "Great! I know which one too! It's gonna be my new book
Peter just sent down to me, titled, Einstein Adds a New Dimension!"
Jacob was still at Eric's side during this exchange, and he couldn't help but be
taken aback by his literary choice, and told him how very pleased he was with
his expanding intellect!
Catherine and the children said their good-byes, and promised to visit again
tomorrow.
Meanwhile, Vincent was delivering, one of the pieces of furniture, Mary had
chosen from the renovation chamber.
Caringly, Mary cautioned, "Be careful Vincent! This is a heavy piece of
furniture! Maybe you should get someone to help you! I don't want you to get a
hernia!"
With a burst of adrenalin, he moved it a little more, and said, "Don't worry so
Mary."
And just as he finished pushing the heavy dressing table into place, he tipped his
head, and knowingly told Mary, "I hear Catherine and the children."
Excitedly, Mary said, "They must be coming from the hospital chamber. Let's
go see."
Vincent stepped to the chamber's threshold, and poised with his hands on his
hips, he breathlessly said, "Hello Catherine, children. Tell us, how did Eric like
the concert?"
In reply, the children all shouted at once, that their concert was terrific!
Just then, Jamie, Laura and Brooke approached Catherine and explained, they
had a hike planned for the children today, and they wanted to go to the mirror
pool. Eagerly, Jamie added, "Since it is a bit of a hike, we were hoping to get
started..."
Laura then signed, asking, "Is it all right if we take them with us now?"
Thinking a hike sounded like a lot of fun for the children, Catherine happily
said, "Of course!"
The children all squealed expletives of delight, and just as they thought life
couldn't get any better, Brooke held up a picnic basket, and boasted, "William
even packed us a picnic basket!"
Over the cheers, Mary, Vincent and Catherine, told them to have a good time.
As the brood trailed on, Catherine sadly expressed, "Poor Eric. It is quite hard
on him being sick. He would have loved going on this hike with the rest of the
children."
With a commiserating manner, Mary optimistically said, "It won't be long Dear,
and he will be running with the pack again."
Wanting some details about the concert, Vincent asked, "So Eric did enjoy your
visit today?"
As Catherine turned back to answer, she saw her brawny husband had sweat on
his brow. So she took her hankie, and wiped off the perspiration to help refresh
him, and happily added, "Oh yes! And I think Father enjoyed our visit too. The
children made cards for him too, and there was a song or two included for his
benefit."
To which Mary eagerly said, "Cards too? Oh splendid! Well, I am sure Father
did enjoy your visit! How could he not? Music and correspondence all in one!"
Mary then thoughtfully added, "I think Father is getting cabin fever, but I have
offered repeatedly to relieve him, but he insists on being isolated along with Eric.
I don't think he has forgiven himself yet for little Ellie's death. And he is bound
and determined, nothing even close to that terrible event in our history, repeats
itself."
In agreement, Vincent replied, "Though he has not spoken of it lately, I know
you are right Mary..."
Still grieving herself, for the little girl who died in her arms, Catherine softly said,
"I think we all felt a little bit at fault for not being able to save Ellie."
With a stunning calm, Mary said, "Yes, and we will all work through those
feelings...the passage of time, will also bring us peace. Then suddenly one
day...when we think of Ellie, we will be able to smile again."
Vincent and Catherine, both felt at a loss for words, for they knew Mary lived
through the tragedy of losing her own children, before she came to the tunnels.
What could they possibly add to her words of wisdom, concerning the healing of
a broken heart.
Wheeling the wooden cart, Mouse approached them, and announced, "Here is
the chest you wanted Mary. Where should it go?"
Turning to Mouse, Mary excitedly told him, "Right over here! Thank you for
bringing it straight away Mouse! I was most anxious to re-arrange my chamber
with the two new pieces you and Vincent were so kind to bring over for me."
Vincent humbly said she was welcome, and then turned to ask, "Do you need
help with the chest Mouse?"
To which Mouse admitted, "It is heavy...maybe so."
And as they worked together, Mary smiled, feeling so pleased, Vincent reached
out to Mouse in such a way. And as Arthur danced on top of the chest as they
moved it, both Mouse and Vincent couldn't help but laugh at the little rascal,
even though he made the chest harder to maneuver!
Catherine and Mary laughed too, and though Mary laughed, she was concerned
his nails may scratch the vintage wooden chest! And so, not wanting to be too
harsh on Mouse's animal again after the bubble incident, she kindly shooed him
off, saying, "Arthur! Careful dear...don't scratch the surface now!"
As Arthur jumped back on his perch, which was Mouse's shoulder, they were
then able to place the chest where Mary wanted it.
Mouse appreciating the kinder tone, replied, "See Arthur listens good Mary!
Don't need to scare him with a broom!"
Mary humbly repeated, "I know Mouse...I apologized for scaring him, and
promised it won't happen again."
To which Mouse looked up at his furry friend, and replied, "Arthur knows you
are sorry Mary!"
Mary then cleared her throat, as she felt so badly about her attacking Arthur,
and she really hoped, this was the last time Mouse would bring it up!
Mary, then heaved a sigh, and as she looked about, she changed gears, and
exclaimed, "Exquisite! Thank you both."
She then admitted, "I think with all the renovations going on, it gave me
inspiration to do just a little something different here in my own chamber.
Change kind of gives you a lift, doesn't it!"
Catherine smiled, as she agreed, saying, "You are right Mary. It kinda does."
Mouse then excitedly said, "Better go, wanna meet up with them at the mirror
pool."
To which Catherine said, "The girl's didn't say anything about you going too.
That's too bad they didn't wait for you Mouse."
With a sly smile, Mouse replied, "They don't know I am going..."
Vincent patted his friend on the shoulder, and expressed, "I hope you are not
planning on pulling any pranks on them."
Looking a little guilty, Mouse admitted, "Arthur and me are going to hide above
the pool, on a crag, and drop pebbles in while they were looking into the mirror
pool."
Catherine giggled, and said, "That should add some fun to their adventure!"
With caution, Mary said, "WELL be careful neither you or Arthur drop in too!"
They all then bade safe travels to Mouse, and included his friend Arthur as well.
And as it was time for the newlyweds to say goodbye to Mary too, Vincent then
escorted his wife to the library.
To be continued
Chapter Ten