I sat in the dingy pub with a group of friends from college, sipping a glass of vodka & coke. The boys sat one side of the table and the girls the other. Feeling Will's eyes on me, I kept my head down, and tried to follow the conversation. Ugh, ever since the party last week, things had been weird between us. Why did I let him kiss me? I wondered.
The girls giggled, whispering non stop about the boys. I gulped down my drink stood up to leave. I swayed a little, that drink must've had more alcohol in it than I'd realised. I stepped out of the pub, it was still light, and walked towards the main road. My bus pulled up on the other side of the road.
"Oh shit," I didn't want to miss this bus. I ran straight into the road towards it.
Before I could move far a hand caught my wrist and pulled me back. A car brushed past me, if I had been any further into the road I would have been killed. He beeped as he passed and swore. Adrenaline surged through my body, I gasped, relieved to be alive, and safe. I twisted around. It was Will, still holding my wrist he pulled me closer, out of the road. I looked into his eyes properly for the first time since the party.
"Thank you. You saved my life." A sob escaped my lips and tears spilled over my eyes.
"Shh," he said, drawing me into his arms.
He held me close as I cried, my head against his chest. He smelled so good, like fresh air. Once sated I peeked up at him, embarrassment blazing on my cheeks. He looked at me and I couldn't read his expression. It wasn't pity though, which I'd been expecting.
"Sorry," I said looking down again. "I've soaked your t-shirt."
"Don't be sorry Josie," He lifted my chin until I looked at him once more. He twisted some strands of my blonde hair in his fingers and tucked them behind my ear. "Can I take you out sometime?"
Taking in his kind light green eyes and scruffy brown hair I nodded, "Yes."
He kissed me then, his lips firm on mine for a moment. It finished too soon. I sighed wistfully and he chuckled for a moment. When I looked at him though his expression was almost fierce and he wiped away the tears under my eyes.
"I'll take you home now." He took my hand.
Wednesday, 10 September 2014
Monday, 1 September 2014
Eyes Closed
Eyes closed
She was aware
Of every sound
His lips
His kiss
His breath
His heartbeat
The cool water
He dripped into
Her mouth
His fingertips
Exploring
Her curves.
She was aware
Of every sound
His lips
His kiss
His breath
His heartbeat
The cool water
He dripped into
Her mouth
His fingertips
Exploring
Her curves.
Saturday, 30 August 2014
Rosa's Journey
"And I tackled him...whoosh whoosh," Prince George threw his arms around knocking a dish of vegetables to the ground, with a clatter. The King chuckled and slapped him on the back, "Well done son. You continue to defeat our enemies. I'm very proud." George gave Rosa a smug smile when their father wasn't listening. He had always fought for the King's attention, and won. Now an adult and soldier their father favoured him even more. Servants rushed to pick up the food and dish from the floor. Rosa bit down on her bottom lip, hard, and drew blood. How many times would she have to endure her father's derision for her, for all women. And why did he hate her? Because she was female? She breathed deeply fighting the urge to explode. "Father may I leave the table?" He waved his hand at her, without bothering to look in her direction and without stopping his conversation with her brother about the Crown Championship. She ran to her room and collapsed on the bed, sobbing. "Princess, what can we do?" her servants cried in alarm. "Oh! Your lip!" Rosa shook and sobbed until she was sated as her servants stroked her hair and cleaned the blood from her lip. As she lay awake that night she formed a plan.
The following morning over breakfast she mentioned to her father that she would like to stay with her Aunt for two weeks.
"Fine," he said glancing at her briefly. “But make sure you are back to see your brother win the Crown Championship."
“Of course,” she agreed.
The servants who took care of the horses put the saddle on Hazel, Rosa’s favourite horse and she headed into the forest toward her Aunt’s house. Once hidden by the darkness of the forest she switched directions and headed toward the witch’s house. She finally found it, and tired after riding all day she set up camp about a mile away and spent the night in a tree. The next morning, the sun peeked through the tree tops as she knocked on the door. The door opened with a loud creak though there was no one behind it, just darkness. She shivered, and taking a deep breath she walked inside.
"Your father underestimates you," the witch said, in her high croaky voice. A sob escaped Rosa's lips & her eyes flooded with tears. She fought to regain control of her emotions.
"It's okay dearie," the witch said. The cottage lit up and the witch, who now simply looked like a very short elderly woman patted her arm.
Make me a man," Rosa begged.
"Forever?" the witch asked.
Rosa shrugged. "Woman aren't respected. Especially by my father."
The witch watched her for a few minutes and Rosa felt as though she was looking straight into her soul. "Come with me. I will prepare the spell. You will be a man for two weeks exactly."
"If I'm precise," she said throwing ingredients in a bowl, "You should turn back into a woman after the final of the competition. Oh,” she laughed excitedly, “I will have to be there to see this. Now drink." She pored the liquid into a tumbler and passed it to Rosa who looked at the olive green liquid apprehensively for a moment then gulped down the disgusting mixture.
“Bring in your pack dearie.”
Rosa did so and the witch cast a spell over it. “The change will happen over the next twenty four hours. I can see a little into the future. You will meet someone on your journey who will help you prepare for the Championship and be a lifelong friend.”
Rosa thanked her and rode Hazel until the sky darkened. She settled in a tree to sleep and when she woke, she was a man. She gave herself the morning to get used to her new body and at lunchtime she ran five miles to the nearest river. Stopping as she reached the river she grinned, her male body was made for running. As she was topping up her bottles she heard a voice.
“Hello," She looked up to see an attractive man with dark hair and green eyes close to her also filling her bottles
"Hi," she replied.
"Do you live here?" he asked.
"No, I'm training for the Championship."
"Me too. I'm Ro..."oops, Rosa thought and added a different ending to her name, "ry."
“James,” he shook her hand. "We could train together if you like?”
Rosa nodded her response.
After a week of training they were both as ready as they could be. Rosa loved training with James. He pushed them both to the limit and she grew to respect him greatly. She began noticing little things about him, the mole under his eye, his scruffy black hair, what made him laugh. Oh no, she realised. I like him too much! She greatly wished she could have met him as herself. Oh well, focus on the competition, she told herself.
They journeyed to the arena two days before the Championship at the Palace. Once there they were given a room to share for the duration of the competition. Rosa was glad when she found out that James was in one of the other seven groups and would only battle each other if they made it to the semi-finals. They cheered each other on as they beat opponent after opponent.
She saw her father with George each day, seated in their thrones at the North end of the arena. George began to take more notice of Rosa, which terrified her. Would he recognise her? He began preparing for the final early each morning, and his level of skill with a sword was incredible. Rosa’s confidence faded somewhat.
Finally the time had come where she must fight James. It was with a heavy heart that she threw the wining attack. She vowed to stay in contact with him and train with him often. She noticed the witch in the arena too, smiling at her and winking as she walked towards George for the final. His arrogant smirk, gave her the motivation to beat him. He was good. Rosa was soon covered in sweat and filth. She heard James shout her name and she was distracted. George sliced her arm. She screamed, as warm blood flowed down her now numb arm, and lunged at him with her other hand again and again, trying to ignore the pain. She caught him on his chin, and blood poured from the wound. When she heard the whistle sound she fell to the floor, and drifted into unconsciousness.
Medics ran to her, checking her over and bandaging her wounds. She came round, some time later, she didn't know how long she had been unconscious for. They just kept telling her that she had won. The following day, she was brought before the King and in front of all the other competitors she was given her prize, a huge bag full of gold. She thanked him, bowing before him and as she did her body begin to change.
The King gasped in shock. "Rosa?"
"Yes father," she curtsied.
"I don't understand," he said, shaking his head. "You really did it, you're amazing," he said pulling her into a hug. "I love you."
Rosa sobbed and then laughed. “I love you too Father." Finally she pulled out of the hug.
"I underestimated you," he said with a shake of his head, looking into her eyes, properly, for the first time.
Later, she found James. "Hi," she said ruefully.
They hugged.
“I feel so confused,” he confessed with a shake of his head, “I felt something for you that didn't make sense. Does that sound strange?”
“Not when you've been through what I've been through,” she smiled though tears filled her eyes. “I feel something for you too, I have since we met.”
"Is your arm okay?" he touched it gently.
"I'll live."
He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "I’d love to see you again Rosa. Would that be okay?"
"Yes," she said with a grin as he drew her into his arms.
The following morning over breakfast she mentioned to her father that she would like to stay with her Aunt for two weeks.
"Fine," he said glancing at her briefly. “But make sure you are back to see your brother win the Crown Championship."
“Of course,” she agreed.
The servants who took care of the horses put the saddle on Hazel, Rosa’s favourite horse and she headed into the forest toward her Aunt’s house. Once hidden by the darkness of the forest she switched directions and headed toward the witch’s house. She finally found it, and tired after riding all day she set up camp about a mile away and spent the night in a tree. The next morning, the sun peeked through the tree tops as she knocked on the door. The door opened with a loud creak though there was no one behind it, just darkness. She shivered, and taking a deep breath she walked inside.
"Your father underestimates you," the witch said, in her high croaky voice. A sob escaped Rosa's lips & her eyes flooded with tears. She fought to regain control of her emotions.
"It's okay dearie," the witch said. The cottage lit up and the witch, who now simply looked like a very short elderly woman patted her arm.
Make me a man," Rosa begged.
"Forever?" the witch asked.
Rosa shrugged. "Woman aren't respected. Especially by my father."
The witch watched her for a few minutes and Rosa felt as though she was looking straight into her soul. "Come with me. I will prepare the spell. You will be a man for two weeks exactly."
"If I'm precise," she said throwing ingredients in a bowl, "You should turn back into a woman after the final of the competition. Oh,” she laughed excitedly, “I will have to be there to see this. Now drink." She pored the liquid into a tumbler and passed it to Rosa who looked at the olive green liquid apprehensively for a moment then gulped down the disgusting mixture.
“Bring in your pack dearie.”
Rosa did so and the witch cast a spell over it. “The change will happen over the next twenty four hours. I can see a little into the future. You will meet someone on your journey who will help you prepare for the Championship and be a lifelong friend.”
Rosa thanked her and rode Hazel until the sky darkened. She settled in a tree to sleep and when she woke, she was a man. She gave herself the morning to get used to her new body and at lunchtime she ran five miles to the nearest river. Stopping as she reached the river she grinned, her male body was made for running. As she was topping up her bottles she heard a voice.
“Hello," She looked up to see an attractive man with dark hair and green eyes close to her also filling her bottles
"Hi," she replied.
"Do you live here?" he asked.
"No, I'm training for the Championship."
"Me too. I'm Ro..."oops, Rosa thought and added a different ending to her name, "ry."
“James,” he shook her hand. "We could train together if you like?”
Rosa nodded her response.
After a week of training they were both as ready as they could be. Rosa loved training with James. He pushed them both to the limit and she grew to respect him greatly. She began noticing little things about him, the mole under his eye, his scruffy black hair, what made him laugh. Oh no, she realised. I like him too much! She greatly wished she could have met him as herself. Oh well, focus on the competition, she told herself.
They journeyed to the arena two days before the Championship at the Palace. Once there they were given a room to share for the duration of the competition. Rosa was glad when she found out that James was in one of the other seven groups and would only battle each other if they made it to the semi-finals. They cheered each other on as they beat opponent after opponent.
She saw her father with George each day, seated in their thrones at the North end of the arena. George began to take more notice of Rosa, which terrified her. Would he recognise her? He began preparing for the final early each morning, and his level of skill with a sword was incredible. Rosa’s confidence faded somewhat.
Finally the time had come where she must fight James. It was with a heavy heart that she threw the wining attack. She vowed to stay in contact with him and train with him often. She noticed the witch in the arena too, smiling at her and winking as she walked towards George for the final. His arrogant smirk, gave her the motivation to beat him. He was good. Rosa was soon covered in sweat and filth. She heard James shout her name and she was distracted. George sliced her arm. She screamed, as warm blood flowed down her now numb arm, and lunged at him with her other hand again and again, trying to ignore the pain. She caught him on his chin, and blood poured from the wound. When she heard the whistle sound she fell to the floor, and drifted into unconsciousness.
Medics ran to her, checking her over and bandaging her wounds. She came round, some time later, she didn't know how long she had been unconscious for. They just kept telling her that she had won. The following day, she was brought before the King and in front of all the other competitors she was given her prize, a huge bag full of gold. She thanked him, bowing before him and as she did her body begin to change.
The King gasped in shock. "Rosa?"
"Yes father," she curtsied.
"I don't understand," he said, shaking his head. "You really did it, you're amazing," he said pulling her into a hug. "I love you."
Rosa sobbed and then laughed. “I love you too Father." Finally she pulled out of the hug.
"I underestimated you," he said with a shake of his head, looking into her eyes, properly, for the first time.
Later, she found James. "Hi," she said ruefully.
They hugged.
“I feel so confused,” he confessed with a shake of his head, “I felt something for you that didn't make sense. Does that sound strange?”
“Not when you've been through what I've been through,” she smiled though tears filled her eyes. “I feel something for you too, I have since we met.”
"Is your arm okay?" he touched it gently.
"I'll live."
He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "I’d love to see you again Rosa. Would that be okay?"
"Yes," she said with a grin as he drew her into his arms.
Monday, 11 August 2014
Friday, 1 August 2014
Us
Why is it
That we see
The worst
In ourselves?
Stare at our faces
And wish
For a different face
Or body?
Instead
Let's throw away
Airbrushed pictures
Of perfect celebrities
And live life
Remembering that
We are all unique
And created wonderfully
In God's image.
That we see
The worst
In ourselves?
Stare at our faces
And wish
For a different face
Or body?
Instead
Let's throw away
Airbrushed pictures
Of perfect celebrities
And live life
Remembering that
We are all unique
And created wonderfully
In God's image.
Thursday, 3 July 2014
Liz and Ed
I've been writing a romance chain story on twitter. I have combined it (and tweaked it a little). I hope you enjoy it. What do you think? You can follow me on @libbysstories if you like. I use it for writing and a break from the chaos of my main account :)
It was afternoon, the heat of the day intense. Sweat beaded on Liz’ forehead as she picked roses, & placed them in the basket. "Hi," the worker next to her said and she nodded in greeting. He caught her attention,and she smoothed her hair glancing at him. Liz felt a sudden pain as a thorn ripped through her hand, "Shit," she exclaimed as thick red blood ran down her hand.
"We'd better clean this," the worker said. "No, I won't get paid_" Liz started but he emptied his basket of flowers into hers. "Now let's go." He wrapped an arm around her waist and carried her basket in his other hand, "Can I ask your name?" "It's Liz," she said, "And you?" She asked distracted by the gold flecks in his dark, almost black eyes. "Ed." "I can't take these flowers Ed." "Shh, let's get your hand fixed."
They headed into the farmhouse and he cleaned her hand, gently so it barely hurt, before applying a bandage. "All done," he smiled. "Mary, I'm taking Liz home, she's filled a basket," Liz heard Ed say from another room. Her hand throbbed steadily. Liz felt herself falling, and a strong pair of arms catch her, "Got you," he whispered. I'm taking you home." "No Ed." she said clinging to him.
"Your husband will be worried." He glanced at her. "I'm not married." Your wife won't like you carrying me." Liz said watching him. "No," his eyes glittered mischievously. "Hmm," she said and she stood again. "I just felt a bit light headed." "I'll take you home now,” he said, “Oh and I'm not actually married," he smiled widely. "Oh. Thanks for clearing that up," Liz said. “Could you drop me at the coffee shop, I don't quite feel myself." Ed looked at her, “You do look pale," he commented and wrapped am arm around her.
"You didn't have to join me," Liz said half an hour later as they sipped on hot tea and munched scones with cream. "I was worried." Ed smiled as Liz's cheeks regained their rosy colour. “And I'm enjoying your company. Oh your bandage needs redoing," he said. A circle of blood had seeped through the white bandage. "Um." "What is it?"
Be brave, Liz whispered to herself for she was enjoying his company and didn't want to leave him. "Would you like to have dinner with me?" "Tonight, I mean," Liz added. " I'd love to, " he smiled and Liz grinned herself. He was charming and she was looking forward to spending more time with him. "I'll do your dressing before we go," he said.
Liz opened the door of her cottage to meaty smells. The slow cooker lid was full of condensation. "Do you live here alone?" Ed asked. "I moved her two years ago to care for my Gran. She died last year. This place is a bit big for me but it has so many memories."
"Would you mind chopping salad?" Ed chopped while Liz added dumplings to the stew. "This looks and smells wonderful," Ed said. They sat at the kitchen table to eat and Liz poured wine. "Where do you live?" "In a caravan, about twenty miles from here. I move every season when work dries up in one place." "How long will you stay here?" "Till all the flowers are picked, most of summer." He shrugged. "Are you happy here?" "That's a difficult question." Liz smiled but it didn't quite reach her eyes. A tear trickled down her face. "Wanna talk about it?" Ed asked. She shook her head.
Ed cupped his hand around her cheek and wiped the tear with his thumb. Liz put their plates into the dishwasher. “Could you check my cut again, it’s really painful," she said. Ed removed the dressing. The gash was red and shiny, the gash was red and shiny, there was pus in the centre. "This doesn't look good. We need to go to A&E." He lifted Liz into his arms and carried her into his car.
"I forgot, it's late," Liz said as they drove, "I should let you go home." "Not a chance," Ed said as he sped up the narrow country lanes. Liz drifted off to sleep as Ed drove. Only waking when Ed opened the passenger door and crouched down next to her. She shivered, her whole body shaking. Ed shrugged off his jumper and helped Liz into it. "Thanks," she said. Ed lifted Liz into his arms again but she resisted, telling him she was fine.
Ed smiled, “So stubborn,” he muttered, cradling Liz closer. Her long dark hair blew in the breeze, and he smoothed it down placing a kiss on her head. Liz' cut wasn't considered particularly serious so they waited to be seen, Liz curled up next to him, her good arm wrapped around him. "Can you believe we just met today?" he asked. She barely stirred & her forehead was much warmer than usual. "Nurse, we need to be seen NOW”, he shouted.
Liz woke to find a nurse smoothing down her bedsheets. "Where am I?" "Your boyfriend brought you. You had an infection," she said. Liz looked over at Ed asleep his neck twisted in the chair. "He was very forceful. He said she must be seen," nurse said indulgently. Liz giggled. "I said exactly that," Ed chuckled stretching, "You okay darlin?" Liz patted the bed and shifted over. "Sure?" he frowned. "Sure." Ed perched on the end of the bed. "I want to thank you, for everything really," she said. "It's nothing.” He touched her arm. “I'm just glad you're okay."
"I want to take you somewhere today," Ed said. "Where?" Liz asked. "A surprise," he grinned. An hour later Liz was released with Antibiotic's for the week and they set off. "Close your eyes," Ed said smiling as they arrived. "No cheating," he said as he helped her out of the car and linked fingers with her. "Where are we?" Liz asked, distracted by the feeling of her hand in Ed's. "You can open them now."
Ed released Liz’ hand and stroked her shoulders as she took in the site of a large caravan. "This is where you live?" Liz asked. "Yes, come in." Once inside Ed opened windows to let in some air. "Would you like a drink?" Liz nodded and Ed poured two glasses of chilled white wine. "What do you think?" he asked taking a sip of wine. "'What do you like about living this life?" "Being able to move around. Freedom," he answered.
Ed took Liz's hand in his and stroked along her fingers. "Stay with me for a couple of days?" "I don't want to leave you_" "But?" Liz laughed, her sea green eyes sparkling. "Let's just say, I don't want to move too fast." She watched Ed. "Okay." He nodded. "I'll sleep up there," he pointed to a small space. "Okay?" "Okay, I'll stay for a day or two," Liz agreed. The next morning Ed drove Liz home to collect a suitcase and then they drove to the sea, arriving close to lunchtime.
Ed took Liz's hand as they walked to a cafe for lunch and she realised how quickly she had grown to love his company. Was it really only three days since they had met, she wondered.
Later that day they sat on the beach watching the sun set. "I'm glad you're here with me," Ed said. He touched his lips to Liz'. "Me too," she whispered, savouring the impression of his lips on hers.
The next morning over breakfast Ed asked, "What do you want to do today?"
"Get to know you better," Liz said sipping tea. They walked along the beach, barefoot, sea water running over their feet. "What do you want to know?" Ed asked linking hands with Liz. "Well I don't even know your surname." "My full name is Edward Robert Sanderson You?." "Elizabeth," Liz stuck her tongue out. "I hate my forename," she said narrowing my eyes. "What were my parents thinking!" she said rolling her eyes. "What’s the rest of your name?" "Swan." "That’s lovely," Ed smiled. "Lizzie Swan, I'm glad to know you." "And you Eddie," Liz chuckled. "Oh dear. Let's agree, no nicknames?" he said. "Agreed," They shook hands.
"Any more questions?" Ed asked. "I feel like I know you well, then I realise we've only known each other three days." "Stay then." "You said two days, you will take me home?" Liz's eyes widened. "Please stay, get to know me better." Liz shook her head. She pulled her hand out of his and walked away. He watched her walk away. “What have I done?” he muttered. Liz threw her clothes into a suitcase and caught a bus home. What had she been thinking trusting a guy she hardly knew. She shook her head, telling herself to stop being so naive.
The following day, Liz opened her front door to Ed. "I'm so sorry Liz, I should have just taken you home, please forgive me," he said. "Go away," Liz said, her voice cracking, her lips mashed into a hard line. "Liz, I'm truly sorry," Ed said. "Just leave me alone," she said, though the tears that gathered in her eyes betrayed her. She brushed them away as they ran down her cheeks. "I miss you so much Liz," he said. "Please just go away," she said, closing the door on him. She returned to work two days later. She caught his eye but quickly looked away. The next day Ed was waiting for her He said “Good morning," but she ignored him and walked away. Liz wondered when he would go, move on. The last thing she needed was another man who didn't keep his promises.
When Liz arrived home that night there was a hand written letter waiting for her. "Liz, please forgive me," it began. "I am deeply regretful about the way I acted. Please give me another chance to earn your trust, on your terms." Tears landed on the page as Liz read on, "I care about you too much to give up. Please give me a chance to make amends."
The next day at work Ed was waiting for Liz once more. "Hi," he said. "Hi," she said walking past him. He placed an arm in her way stopping her. "Meet me later at the bakery this afternoon?" "I don't want to forgive you, I've been let down before." Her lips trembled & her eyes filled with tears. "I'm leaving tomorrow." "So why do you care, you said you were moving on anyway?" Liz screwed up her face. "I would stay for you,” he said pain causing his voice to crack. "I can't trust you," she said. "Just give me one more chance to show you that you can."
She shook her head, brushing away stray tears. "Just go, move on. I can't give you what you want." She cycled home in floods of tears. The next morning Liz called Mary to let her know she wouldn't be at work. "Don't worry love," Mary said. "See you when you feel better." Liz tried to relax but her mind wouldn't let her. Instead she relived the time with Jon when she was eighteen.
Long buried heartbreak resurfaced and Liz grieved again for her aborted baby. And Jon. Disappearing straight after the abortion. Liz was so caught up in her grief that she didn't hear the doorbell ring again and again. Ed pressed his weight against the door which finally gave way, he ran to Liz who was curled up on the floor and sank down on his knees in front of her and wrapped his arms around her. "I heard," he said out of breath. "I realised_"
Liz clung to Ed sobbing until she was cried out and calm once more. "I'm a mess," she said wiping her eyes ineffectively with her fingers. “No,” said Ed, “You needed to let go. Can I get you anything?” He brought make-up removal wipes which she asked for and a cup of tea that she hadn't. Liz cleaned her face, embarrassed that Ed had seen her in the worst possible way. She looked at him.
He was watching her, his eyes revealing his concern. "Thanks for coming. I'm sorry you saw me like that." "I'm glad you let me in," he touched her forehead. "You heard about what Jon did?" He nodded. "I haven’t really recovered from what he did. I tarred you with the same brush. Sorry." "I won't treat you like that." He stroked Liz' cheek. "I promise to take care of you on your terms until I've earned your trust." Liz smiled, "Thank you Ed." She moved into his open arms and wrapping her arms around his neck, she kissed him.
It was afternoon, the heat of the day intense. Sweat beaded on Liz’ forehead as she picked roses, & placed them in the basket. "Hi," the worker next to her said and she nodded in greeting. He caught her attention,and she smoothed her hair glancing at him. Liz felt a sudden pain as a thorn ripped through her hand, "Shit," she exclaimed as thick red blood ran down her hand.
"We'd better clean this," the worker said. "No, I won't get paid_" Liz started but he emptied his basket of flowers into hers. "Now let's go." He wrapped an arm around her waist and carried her basket in his other hand, "Can I ask your name?" "It's Liz," she said, "And you?" She asked distracted by the gold flecks in his dark, almost black eyes. "Ed." "I can't take these flowers Ed." "Shh, let's get your hand fixed."
They headed into the farmhouse and he cleaned her hand, gently so it barely hurt, before applying a bandage. "All done," he smiled. "Mary, I'm taking Liz home, she's filled a basket," Liz heard Ed say from another room. Her hand throbbed steadily. Liz felt herself falling, and a strong pair of arms catch her, "Got you," he whispered. I'm taking you home." "No Ed." she said clinging to him.
"Your husband will be worried." He glanced at her. "I'm not married." Your wife won't like you carrying me." Liz said watching him. "No," his eyes glittered mischievously. "Hmm," she said and she stood again. "I just felt a bit light headed." "I'll take you home now,” he said, “Oh and I'm not actually married," he smiled widely. "Oh. Thanks for clearing that up," Liz said. “Could you drop me at the coffee shop, I don't quite feel myself." Ed looked at her, “You do look pale," he commented and wrapped am arm around her.
"You didn't have to join me," Liz said half an hour later as they sipped on hot tea and munched scones with cream. "I was worried." Ed smiled as Liz's cheeks regained their rosy colour. “And I'm enjoying your company. Oh your bandage needs redoing," he said. A circle of blood had seeped through the white bandage. "Um." "What is it?"
Be brave, Liz whispered to herself for she was enjoying his company and didn't want to leave him. "Would you like to have dinner with me?" "Tonight, I mean," Liz added. " I'd love to, " he smiled and Liz grinned herself. He was charming and she was looking forward to spending more time with him. "I'll do your dressing before we go," he said.
Liz opened the door of her cottage to meaty smells. The slow cooker lid was full of condensation. "Do you live here alone?" Ed asked. "I moved her two years ago to care for my Gran. She died last year. This place is a bit big for me but it has so many memories."
"Would you mind chopping salad?" Ed chopped while Liz added dumplings to the stew. "This looks and smells wonderful," Ed said. They sat at the kitchen table to eat and Liz poured wine. "Where do you live?" "In a caravan, about twenty miles from here. I move every season when work dries up in one place." "How long will you stay here?" "Till all the flowers are picked, most of summer." He shrugged. "Are you happy here?" "That's a difficult question." Liz smiled but it didn't quite reach her eyes. A tear trickled down her face. "Wanna talk about it?" Ed asked. She shook her head.
Ed cupped his hand around her cheek and wiped the tear with his thumb. Liz put their plates into the dishwasher. “Could you check my cut again, it’s really painful," she said. Ed removed the dressing. The gash was red and shiny, the gash was red and shiny, there was pus in the centre. "This doesn't look good. We need to go to A&E." He lifted Liz into his arms and carried her into his car.
"I forgot, it's late," Liz said as they drove, "I should let you go home." "Not a chance," Ed said as he sped up the narrow country lanes. Liz drifted off to sleep as Ed drove. Only waking when Ed opened the passenger door and crouched down next to her. She shivered, her whole body shaking. Ed shrugged off his jumper and helped Liz into it. "Thanks," she said. Ed lifted Liz into his arms again but she resisted, telling him she was fine.
Ed smiled, “So stubborn,” he muttered, cradling Liz closer. Her long dark hair blew in the breeze, and he smoothed it down placing a kiss on her head. Liz' cut wasn't considered particularly serious so they waited to be seen, Liz curled up next to him, her good arm wrapped around him. "Can you believe we just met today?" he asked. She barely stirred & her forehead was much warmer than usual. "Nurse, we need to be seen NOW”, he shouted.
Liz woke to find a nurse smoothing down her bedsheets. "Where am I?" "Your boyfriend brought you. You had an infection," she said. Liz looked over at Ed asleep his neck twisted in the chair. "He was very forceful. He said she must be seen," nurse said indulgently. Liz giggled. "I said exactly that," Ed chuckled stretching, "You okay darlin?" Liz patted the bed and shifted over. "Sure?" he frowned. "Sure." Ed perched on the end of the bed. "I want to thank you, for everything really," she said. "It's nothing.” He touched her arm. “I'm just glad you're okay."
"I want to take you somewhere today," Ed said. "Where?" Liz asked. "A surprise," he grinned. An hour later Liz was released with Antibiotic's for the week and they set off. "Close your eyes," Ed said smiling as they arrived. "No cheating," he said as he helped her out of the car and linked fingers with her. "Where are we?" Liz asked, distracted by the feeling of her hand in Ed's. "You can open them now."
Ed released Liz’ hand and stroked her shoulders as she took in the site of a large caravan. "This is where you live?" Liz asked. "Yes, come in." Once inside Ed opened windows to let in some air. "Would you like a drink?" Liz nodded and Ed poured two glasses of chilled white wine. "What do you think?" he asked taking a sip of wine. "'What do you like about living this life?" "Being able to move around. Freedom," he answered.
Ed took Liz's hand in his and stroked along her fingers. "Stay with me for a couple of days?" "I don't want to leave you_" "But?" Liz laughed, her sea green eyes sparkling. "Let's just say, I don't want to move too fast." She watched Ed. "Okay." He nodded. "I'll sleep up there," he pointed to a small space. "Okay?" "Okay, I'll stay for a day or two," Liz agreed. The next morning Ed drove Liz home to collect a suitcase and then they drove to the sea, arriving close to lunchtime.
Ed took Liz's hand as they walked to a cafe for lunch and she realised how quickly she had grown to love his company. Was it really only three days since they had met, she wondered.
Later that day they sat on the beach watching the sun set. "I'm glad you're here with me," Ed said. He touched his lips to Liz'. "Me too," she whispered, savouring the impression of his lips on hers.
The next morning over breakfast Ed asked, "What do you want to do today?"
"Get to know you better," Liz said sipping tea. They walked along the beach, barefoot, sea water running over their feet. "What do you want to know?" Ed asked linking hands with Liz. "Well I don't even know your surname." "My full name is Edward Robert Sanderson You?." "Elizabeth," Liz stuck her tongue out. "I hate my forename," she said narrowing my eyes. "What were my parents thinking!" she said rolling her eyes. "What’s the rest of your name?" "Swan." "That’s lovely," Ed smiled. "Lizzie Swan, I'm glad to know you." "And you Eddie," Liz chuckled. "Oh dear. Let's agree, no nicknames?" he said. "Agreed," They shook hands.
"Any more questions?" Ed asked. "I feel like I know you well, then I realise we've only known each other three days." "Stay then." "You said two days, you will take me home?" Liz's eyes widened. "Please stay, get to know me better." Liz shook her head. She pulled her hand out of his and walked away. He watched her walk away. “What have I done?” he muttered. Liz threw her clothes into a suitcase and caught a bus home. What had she been thinking trusting a guy she hardly knew. She shook her head, telling herself to stop being so naive.
The following day, Liz opened her front door to Ed. "I'm so sorry Liz, I should have just taken you home, please forgive me," he said. "Go away," Liz said, her voice cracking, her lips mashed into a hard line. "Liz, I'm truly sorry," Ed said. "Just leave me alone," she said, though the tears that gathered in her eyes betrayed her. She brushed them away as they ran down her cheeks. "I miss you so much Liz," he said. "Please just go away," she said, closing the door on him. She returned to work two days later. She caught his eye but quickly looked away. The next day Ed was waiting for her He said “Good morning," but she ignored him and walked away. Liz wondered when he would go, move on. The last thing she needed was another man who didn't keep his promises.
When Liz arrived home that night there was a hand written letter waiting for her. "Liz, please forgive me," it began. "I am deeply regretful about the way I acted. Please give me another chance to earn your trust, on your terms." Tears landed on the page as Liz read on, "I care about you too much to give up. Please give me a chance to make amends."
The next day at work Ed was waiting for Liz once more. "Hi," he said. "Hi," she said walking past him. He placed an arm in her way stopping her. "Meet me later at the bakery this afternoon?" "I don't want to forgive you, I've been let down before." Her lips trembled & her eyes filled with tears. "I'm leaving tomorrow." "So why do you care, you said you were moving on anyway?" Liz screwed up her face. "I would stay for you,” he said pain causing his voice to crack. "I can't trust you," she said. "Just give me one more chance to show you that you can."
She shook her head, brushing away stray tears. "Just go, move on. I can't give you what you want." She cycled home in floods of tears. The next morning Liz called Mary to let her know she wouldn't be at work. "Don't worry love," Mary said. "See you when you feel better." Liz tried to relax but her mind wouldn't let her. Instead she relived the time with Jon when she was eighteen.
Long buried heartbreak resurfaced and Liz grieved again for her aborted baby. And Jon. Disappearing straight after the abortion. Liz was so caught up in her grief that she didn't hear the doorbell ring again and again. Ed pressed his weight against the door which finally gave way, he ran to Liz who was curled up on the floor and sank down on his knees in front of her and wrapped his arms around her. "I heard," he said out of breath. "I realised_"
Liz clung to Ed sobbing until she was cried out and calm once more. "I'm a mess," she said wiping her eyes ineffectively with her fingers. “No,” said Ed, “You needed to let go. Can I get you anything?” He brought make-up removal wipes which she asked for and a cup of tea that she hadn't. Liz cleaned her face, embarrassed that Ed had seen her in the worst possible way. She looked at him.
He was watching her, his eyes revealing his concern. "Thanks for coming. I'm sorry you saw me like that." "I'm glad you let me in," he touched her forehead. "You heard about what Jon did?" He nodded. "I haven’t really recovered from what he did. I tarred you with the same brush. Sorry." "I won't treat you like that." He stroked Liz' cheek. "I promise to take care of you on your terms until I've earned your trust." Liz smiled, "Thank you Ed." She moved into his open arms and wrapping her arms around his neck, she kissed him.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)