IT'S OVER...

IT’S OVER…

Chapter 16

“Meditation time”

It was snowing abundantly on the first day of the year 1919. Candy was looking out the window of the room Tom had given her. The little Candice-Marie was asleep in her arms. Tears of sadness were coming down her cheeks, when she thought about the events of the New Year’s Eve party. Michael… he had been so cruel to her, but he felt so betrayed… but why didn’t she tell him the truth from the beginning? A part of her wanted to continue seeing Terry…. It was almost stronger than her. To see Terry at the war was a delight she didn’t want to do without. But… she should’ve told Michael the truth, now he had heard Eliza’s awfully mean and deformed version and he was very angry.

- Candy? Said Tom’s voice, are you ok? She’s asleep?

- Yes, Tom I’m going to put her to bed…

She went to put Tom’s little girl in her crib after kissing her on the forehead. She went back to her room, lay down on the bed. Albert had brought her to her brother Tom’s house, per her request. This last one was happy to help his little sister. When Albert went back to Chicago, Candy told Tom what had happened.

- Oh my God, my poor Candy

- It’s my fault, I should’ve told him the truth from the beginning…

- Maybe, but you were protecting him…

- But now, it’s like I did it deliberately to be with Terry in front of my husband… but I didn’t see it that way, they were best friends, it was the war… I thought Michael could do without the hostility he would’ve felt toward Terry…

- Candy your heart was in the right place… you can stay here as long as you want…

- Thank you Tommy, said Candy hugging him and I can take care of Candice-Marie…

- You have to rest…

- I have to practice; I will have my baby soon, in 4 months….

- Ok, said Tom’s wife, but if you get tired, tell me…

- Don’t hold your breath, said Tom laughing, Candy will never get tired of taking care of children!

Candy smiled. That’s how she was living at Tom’s to get over what happened to her and to think. Her friends; she will call them from time to time from the village. They will understand that Candy needed to be alone.

Candy’s friends were wondering when she was coming back. Albert didn’t want to say anything; he simply told them that she’ll come back when she’s ready.

Michael was at his cousin’s, also thinking. He felt so betrayed, by his wife, and his best friend. To learn that they almost got married…The woman Terry talked about with so much love was his wife! They spent all that time together… Terry told him nothing happened, but Eliza said the opposite…Eliza? How could he believe a word coming out of her mouth…? But Eliza told him the truth…. Something Candy and Terry didn’t do… Candy wanted to talk before the reception, but he didn’t give her a chance… Maybe she wanted to tell him the truth? Was the baby really his? Oh, he loved her so much! He couldn’t imagine himself without her, it was much too painful to even thinking about it. But he needed time to calm himself and to get over the situation.

**********

In New York, Terry was thinking about Candy. How was she? Did she solve her problem? Oh my God, he wanted so much to see her, to console her, but most of all to take her and run away with her with his son for parts unknown, a far away country like Australia or New Zeeland, where they could live their love freely, far away from disapproving eyes… but it was only a dream that would never come true… they both had commitment to honour, spouses and children… He wanted to go and look for her, but he couldn’t. He had to let her fix her problems with her husband. He would only be a reminder of the betrayal…Susanna was still asking him what had happened with Candy in France, but Terry told her that it was none of her concern, and that nothing happened at all! Terry, since his return, was spending all of his free time with his son and continued to ignore Susanna. This whole situation with Candy had upset him a lot. Michael had been his best friend during the war, even after he learned that he was Candy’s husband. Michael felt of course betrayed, he wanted to explain to him it was not the case, yes, they were wrong not to tell him anything, but they respected their marriage vows. He could only pray that the situation gets solved. Candy was going to have a baby; and a baby needs its father, Michael.

Time passed and it was February around Valentine’s Day. Michael and Candy still hadn’t talk. Michael was still living in his family; he couldn’t decide whether he was going to go back to France right away without Candy, or later after the birth of his child. One thing was certain; he had to talk to his wife.

At the Andrew manor, Candy’s friends were wondering how they could help her.

- Archie, said Annie, go see Michael and talk to him

- And tell him what? Said Archie

- I don’t know, what you would want somebody to tell you if you were in that situation? Do it for Candy

- I don’t think he would listen to me, said Archie

- If you don’t try, you won’t know, said Annie, go and try if you don’t succeed, we’re going to send Stear, right Patty?

- Yes, said Patty, I miss Candy; she was my pregnant partner…

- Try bro, said Stear, if he doesn’t listen, I’ll go, ok?

- Ok, said Archie, I’m going to see Michael. He’s still at his cousin’s?

- Yes, said Annie, thank you honey… good luck…

Archie went at Meghan’s, Michael’s cousin to talk to him. He found him in one of the living room reading a book. He raised his head and recognised Archie.

- I don’t want to see anybody, said Michael, did she send you?

- Well hello to you too! Said Archie, I’m fine thank you, and you? “She” didn’t send me; it’s my wife, her sister and best friend…

- Archie…

- Michael, listen. You have to find out where she is, find her and talk to her…

- About what? She betrayed me….

Archie had an annoyed sigh.

- Michael, Terry was right on one point… you’re an idiot!

- What?

- Yes… you’re going to lose Candy and I know you still love her

- Yes, but…

- She didn’t tell you because you were fresh out of the operating room… you were kind of not in a good shape and don’t tell me you would’ve wanted to hear that your new best friend was you wife’s ex-boyfriend… It could’ve killed you!

- No kidding! But after…

- After, she saw that you were friends; she didn’t want to ruin that especially during the war where a lot of people died and lost their lives and their friends everyday… she was wrong not to tell you, but if she says nothing happened, you have to believe her… didn’t she tell you she loved someone before?

- Yes, she told me she had her heart broken, but life goes on… but it doesn’t change the situation… she hurt me, with my best friend

- Michael, as hurt as you are, I’m going to tell you one thing; I would give anything to be in your place!

- What?

- You heard me… I would kill to be in your place, to be Candy’s husband… do you realise how lucky you are? If you hate Terry because he’s in love with Candy, you have to hate me, and Stear, and Albert and Neil…

- You’re all in love with her? Said Michael surprised

- Yes, in the beginning she was in love with my cousin Anthony…

- The one who died of a horse fall, she told me

- I don’t know about the others, but I wanted to wait a little for her to get over her grief to tell her I loved her, but unfortunately for me, she met Terry and her sister and best friend, Annie was crazy in love with me…. I’d lost just with that! I love my wife and I’m happy…But if I had the slightest chance with Candy, I would grab it without thinking…

- You’re telling me that if I let her go, let’s see… Albert is still single; he’s going to grab her, right?

- Who would blame him? He rushed to help her leave the hotel… He’s been in love with her since they were living together… but she was only thinking about Terry…

- She’s not going to go back to Terry?

- They made a decision that night, the both of them, and believe me, they are faithful… if she wanted Terry she would be with Terry…but she wants you, she’s having your baby…

- Terry told me he had to think about her to be with his wife…

- He only dreams about it, you’ve got her…Michael, you love Candy, go find her and make up with her. My dear cousin Eliza is a vile being! Her purpose, since their first meeting, was to ruin Candy’s life. She told you the truth in her own twisted and mean way and don’t believe a word she says about your baby’s paternity, because I can assure you, if Candy was having Terry’s baby, he would never let another man raise his child… Annie told me Candy wanted to tell you the truth before the reception…

- Yes, I was rushing her because I had to make a speech… do you know where she is?

- No, but try the Pony Home…

- Thanks Archie… for your honesty. I don’t hate you…

- Your welcome Michael… good luck…

Eliza, who had come to see her friend Megan, found Michael with Archie.

- My dear cousin, you came to plead the cause of your little slut?

- Eliza! Said Archie, enough!

- Michael, don’t tell me he convinced you…. Candy told me herself, that she was getting it on with Terry…

- Candy confided in you? Said Archie, give a break! She probably said it to get on your nerves, after you probably told her something mean as usual

- Michael, said Eliza, don’t listen to him, let her rot… with her bastard child…

- Eliza said Michael, you’re not going to poison my mind anymore… I love Candy, I miss her like crazy and I’m going to look for her and as soon as our baby is born, we would leave for France for good, far away from your viper tongue!

Archie smiled satisfied and Michael left the room before Eliza could respond. They went to the Andrew manor to ask Albert where Candy was. This last one was a little sceptical, he didn’t want Candy to suffer more, she needed her rest for the baby.

- Albert, said Michael, please, tell me where she is, I’m thinking of going to the Pony Home like Archie suggested. I wanted more details, is she really there or somewhere else?

- She needs calm, Michael if you want to call her names again, you can forget about it. There’s no way I’m going to tell you where she is, if you’re going to upset her again

- I’m not going to insult her, I swear…

- You didn’t even want to hear her out…

Michael understood what Archie was talking about, Albert was in love with Candy, he was protecting her and it was like he didn’t want her marriage to be ok… But Candy was his and he had the right to have another chance with her.

- That’s why I want to see her, please… I have to apologise and I love her more than anything in the world… and I can’t live without her, please Albert…

Albert said to himself that Candy was going to end up seeing her husband eventually. He had already made a decision in her place once, all those years ago, by sending Terry back to Susanna without talking to Candy. Terry went back to New York and married Susanna, which sent Candy to the war the heart in ashes and she found Michael… If she had talked to Terry, they would’ve had reconciled and they wouldn’t have gone to the war, and Michael wouldn’t be in the picture… In brief, Albert felt guilty because of the consequences of his actions… Candy was going to have Michael’s baby, she not going to be available any time soon. Her husband was going to take her back and they were going to continue their life together. He had closed the door on his dreams with Candy, but he had seen a glimpse of hope… he had to think about Candy and her baby…. It was almost against his will, but he finally said:

- Ok. She’s at her brother Tom’s farm…

- Can you give me the address?

- Of course, said Albert softly, if you have any problems, go to the Pony Home, they will be able to tell you where Tom’s farm is and sometimes she’s there , taking care of the children…

- Thank you, Albert, thank you for everything, said Michael leaving

Michael didn’t know, or he knew, that it took Albert all the strengths of the universe to tell him where Candy was. But Candy wanted to reconcile with her husband, he had to respect her wishes. Michael took the train to go to the Pony Home.

Candy was at the Pony Home for the day. She was helping the children doing Valentine’s Day cards. It was the general joy. The children were having fun. She made one with Candice-Marie for her parents. She went back at Tom’s to rest, her belly was getting bigger, she was feeling the baby move and every time, she felt happy. It was becoming concrete, there was a little being inside of her and she will have to take care of it, with or without its father. One thing was sure, if God is willing, her baby will have everything it needs and it would have what she didn’t have, a mother that will love it more than anything in the world. After dinner, she went to her room to rest and see if she was going to hold the food she’d just ate, most of the time, she was throwing up as soon as she drank water. She was sad, because it was going to be her wedding anniversary soon, on Valentine’s Day. Michael… she had hoped he would’ve calmed down and that he would’ve come and see her by now… She decided to go see him the next day to clear things out. She was reading the bible when she heard a knock on her door. It was probably Tom, she was waiting for him; he always come to see her before he went to bed.

- Yes, come in Tom she said…

- It’s not Tom, said Michael’s voice

Candy turned around surprised.

- Michael… come in please

Candy stood up and Michael saw that her belly had grown since the last time he saw her.

- Candy, are you ok? The baby?

- He’s moving a lot. I was resting after dinner because sometimes I throw up almost immediately after drinking my glass of water

- Your brother is treating you well?

- Yes, and I’m practicing by taking care of Candice-Marie

- I came to talk…

- Ok. Have a seat, Michael

He sat down next to her on the bed.

- I’m going to start, said Candy, I’m sorry for not telling you that Terry and I had a past, but that’s what it was, the past… Michael

- Archie told me why you didn’t say anything…first I was too sick and then…

- Yes, but I should’ve let you decide like Terry did; he chose to continue to be your friend, maybe to see me… or so you could tell him about me… I’m sorry Michael. But you have to believe me, nothing happened. I’m not saying that there weren’t any weird moments when we pretended to be husband and wife at the German frontier, but I respected my marriage vows and so did he…

She was thinking about the wonderful kiss; but that was something she was going to take to the grave.

- Sounds like it was a sacrifice…

- No, Michael. I made the decision to leave Terry to Susanna and I’m not going to come back on it. It’s over between Terry and me, for good. I had hoped when he left Broadway all those years ago, that he would come and get me, but that was not the case. He went back to Susanna and he married her…

Michael didn’t say anything. Terry had told him about his story and also about his visit to Chicago before he knew that Candy was Michael’s wife; his friend Albert had stopped him to talk to Candy and just seeing the woman he loved had given him courage and he went back to New York and fulfill his duty. Albert had stopped a reconciliation between Candy and Terry… without that, she wouldn’t have gone to the war and she wouldn’t have met him again… it might not have been the plan Albert had in mind, but it allowed Michael to be with the woman he loved more than anything in the world.

- I’m sorry for saying that you disgust me, you don’t disgust me, my love, I love you more than anything and these last weeks have been hell for me. Forgive me…said Michael softly

- I’m the one that should ask for your forgiveness, my love. Now that I think about it, I shouldn’t have hid it from you. After it was too late… it would have seem fake, but I’m sorry…

- I forgive you, honey, come here.

He took her I his arms and he kissed her passionately on the lips. He was not going to loose the woman he loved, she was having her baby and he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. He spent the night with her in the room and in the morning after breakfast, he decided to go back to Chicago with his wife.

- Tom, said Candy, thank you for having me stay with you…

- You’re very welcome little sister… you’re welcome here anytime…

- Your wife is not jealous, said Michael, your father wanted Candy and you to get married …

- That was a misunderstanding said Tom’s wife smiling

- Yes, said Tom, Candy is my sister, that’s how we were brought up…

- My saviour said Candy…hugging him

“Looks like he’s the only one not in love with her said Michael in his head”

- Goodbye everybody, good bye Candice-Marie said Candy smiling and thank you

- Good bye Candy, said Tom and his wife

- Bye Candy, said the little one

- Bye, said Michael

In the train that was taking them to Chicago, Michael told her that he had booked a suite in a hotel.

- But why? Said Candy

- I want to be alone with you

- Michael, I wanted to stay until I give birth, but… let’s go home, to France

- But you said that the boat made you sick…

- Yes, but we need to get away, honey. Far away from the dirty looks and the whispers

- Eliza is telling to whom would listen that you’re a tramp…

- That idiot! I suggested that something happened with Terry to get on her nerves, because she kept saying that a bullet should’ve killed me… and since she has a thing for Terry…

- Oh…

- About the stray bullet… Terry was there when I opened my eyes… his voice woke me up… I don’t want to hide anything from you anymore… I was dying…

- And Terry’s voice brought you back… the voice of the man you loved…. I should thank him… but not now, maybe one day…

- Don’t worry about that… he understands, I think, said Candy smiling and Michael, now, you’re the man I love…

- I have to say Terry’s attitude never changed when he learned that you were my wife… I don’t know if I would’ve been as nice…

- It’s not to defend him, but life was not easy for him, separated from his mother, his father’s indifference… losing me. I was practically the only positive thing in his life, and even that… he was not allowed to be with me because he had a duty to fulfill… now, he’s got a little boy… it’s probably the only light in his life… I hope he will end up loving Susanna…

Michael didn’t say anything, because Terry had confided in him. He loved only one woman, and that woman was Candy. They arrived at the manor to pick up Candy’s belongings.

- Candy, said Patricia, my pregnant partner, you’re abandoning me?

- I’m going back to France, Patty where it’s calm and where everybody is so happy the war is over, that they don’t listen to gossip…

- Eliza is a viper… to spread rumours she knows are not true, said Annie

- I’m going to the hotel with Michael, I came to take some of my stuff, the rest will follow tomorrow

Meanwhile in the living room, Albert and Michael were talking.

- Thanks Albert, I know how hard it was for you to tell me were she was…

- What do you mean? Asked Albert

- Terry told me how you discouraged him from talking to Candy supposedly so he won’t open old wounds… you knew she would’ve taken him back in a second he had talked to her and told her he couldn’t live with her… that’s what she was waiting for deep down inside, that Terry comes back to her since he had left Susanna… she never knew about it and she made the decision to go to the war when she learned that Terry had married Susanna… not what you had in mind, hein?

- I don’t understand your insinuations, said Albert

- Come on! We’re between us, guys… you hoped that she would turned to you to be consoled and you would’ve seize the opportunity to pour your heart out… but I have to thank you, without you, she would’ve been with Terry and I wouldn’t have met her at the war… it’s crazy how one single event could change the course of your whole life… I’m going to keep your secret… Thank you Albert!

- Michael, said Candy’s voice, I’m ready….

- I’m coming my love, said Michael smiling.

Albert was looking at them. Michael was right; it was because of him if Candy went to France…Candy approached Albert and hugged him.

- Goodbye Albert, I will call you and tell you when I’m leaving…when we’re going back to France

- Oh… very well, said Albert.

She’d said goodbye to her friends and their husbands upstairs in their room. She left at her husband’s arm for the hotel where Michael had booked a suite. In the car that was taking them there, Candy felt her baby move.

- Michael, quick, give me your hand!

She took his hand and she put it on her belly and a few seconds later, Michael felt the baby move. He smiled, he was moved.

- There’s my son…

- Or you daughter, said Candy laughing

- It’s a boy, he’s moving a lot

- I was a real tomboy, said Candy laughing, maybe she looks like me

- Yes, I want a girl like you with your curly blond hair and freckles on the nose

- And I want a boy who’s going to be the splitting image of his father…

He hugged her and kissed her on the lips. He still had his hand on her belly and the baby moved again and they stopped and they burst out laughing.

- It’s like he want to show his presence, said Candy laughing

- Hey, I love you too, baby… said Michael talking to the belly

They continued their ride laughing out loud. Peace and harmony was back in their marriage. They had a family and nothing is more important than a family.

IT’S OVER…

Chapter 17
“Goodbye my love”

Terry was going to his mother’s with his little boy. He went to see her almost every week-end when he was free. Little Richard loved to go out with his father and he followed him everywhere when he was home. When his father came back home, he always ran to him when he was awake.

They arrived in front of a big house, and Terry rang the bell. A maid opened the door and a smile illuminated her face.

- Mr. Terrence, little Richard, she said smiling, come in, come in

- Thank you, said Terry smiling

They got in and they went to the living room where Eleonor was sitting. She stood up to greet her son and her grandson.

- Hello my darlings! She said smiling taking her grandson

She kissed them and they sat in the living room.

- So what’s new? She Asked

- Nothing…

- How are you?

- As usual…

- I heard the rumour about the fight that happened a few weeks ago…

- Oh…

- Why didn’t you tell me anything?

- That I was in the middle of a fight because of Candy, with her husband in front of my wife and all my friends? I don’t know mum….maybe I didn’t feel like it? Said Terry ironically

- Terry, you fought with Candy’s husband in front of your wife?

- Yes…

- Well, who needs the theatre…? All you need is a reception with ancient soldiers! Why were you fighting with the husband of your beloved?

- Don’t call her that…

- What? She’s not your beloved anymore?

- Yes, but Richard is going to start to understand and repeat things …

- Ok… I’m sorry. But answer my question…

Terry told her what happened in France.

- Oh my God Terry! Candy married your best friend?

- My ex-best friend now… he thinks I betrayed him… in a way it’s true… I envied him every time he talked to me about her and I saw them together. I would’ve given anything to be in is place…but despite all my desires, I didn’t do anything and Candy is not the kind of person who cheats on her husband anyway…

- I’m sorry, Terry. What did you tell Susanna?

- Nothing…

- What do you mean nothing?

- Nothing. I had nothing to say to her. It’s not like I’m in love with her and I have to explain myself. I did nothing wrong, I wasn’t unfaithful to my marriage vows…

- She must understand now why you’d rather be at the war… you had Candy…

- You say that like I knew she was at the war… I was as surprise as her to see her in France married to my new best friend…

- But your heart was happy to be able to see her from time to time…

- Mum…

- Ok… But I think this situation is distressing… you should’ve married Candy… I thought that you would’ve gone and see her in Chicago, when you left Susanna all those years ago….

- You don’t know how right you are…

- What? You went to see Candy and you came back to Susanna anyway? Did she send you away?

- No, she never knew I came to look for her…

He told her what happened with his meeting with Albert.

- Terry, I think you’ve been had... this Albert is probably in love with her, because I don’t understand why he thought that if Candy saw you, it would be a bad thing…

- You think mum? But he didn’t marry her… she married Michael

- Because she went to France… do you know when she got there?

- Yes, not long after I married Susanna…

Terry stopped talking and started to think. Candy went to France after he married Susanna. Was it a coincidence?

- Terry, maybe I’m wrong, but I think that Candy went to the war when she learned that you married Susanna…

- Maybe she was hoping I was coming to get her and I did… but Albert… Oh my God!

- I don’t think he anticipated she would go to France…

- I’m surprised he didn’t go with her! The bloody bastard! Living with her…he fell in love with her! I thought he was my friend… I didn’t see anything…

- You were blinded by the sense of duty and your guilt…

- And Albert knew it… he played on that, telling me how Candy had moved on how strong she was… I was ashamed of my weakness

- You were in love Terry…

One single incident can change the course of a whole life. If he had talked to Candy that day… Why did he listen to Albert? He still had the weight of the responsibility to Susanna because of the accident…He heard Candy words:

“You married Susanna, you chose Susanna…”

She had a reproachful tone saying those words; like she wished it was different… of course she wished it was different! But he felt that she was resenting him a little for marrying Susanna. But… that was in the past; he and Candy chose their way. She was now in love with another man and she was going to have his baby.

- Terry, said Eleonor, Susanna came to see me… you’re not even looking at her anymore, why?

- Mum, I have to think about Candy to be with her, it’s disloyal… I’m cheating on her in my heart. No, I can’t do that anymore….

- But Terry, she doesn’t care…

- That’s just it; it’s not normal. A woman who wants me to be with her and call her by another woman’s name… she needs help….

- Something happened with Candy, didn’t it?

- She would never cheat on her husband, mum…

- You didn’t answer my question… what happened between you?

- Nothing…

- Terry….

- Why do you think something happened at all?

- Because, before you were fulfilling your marital duty and now you’re not anymore… come on! Out with it!

- Mum…. Well…. Alright!

He told her about the incident at the German frontier and how that awful custom officer forced them to kiss.

- You kissed her…. Said Eleonor

- We were forced to do it…

- Whatever! But that kiss changed everything for you, didn’t it?

- Mum… it was even better than the first time I kissed her, it was the most wonderful thing in the world, during those few seconds the kiss lasted; we were one. We were made for each other. That disgusting custom officer had given us an unexpected beautiful gift… during that brief moment, I was alive mum, for the first time since our separation. I had the woman I love in my arms and she was as passionate as I was!

- Oh my God Terry!

- So you see, I can’t be with Susanna anymore…

- But Terry…

- I want to be honest with myself. I don’t want to live a lie anymore… things are what they are, I have a son I love more than anything… and Susanna…

- Did you talk to her?

- To tell her what? That I don’t want to use her as a replacement of Candy in bed anymore? No, mum. I’m going to try to convince her mother to take her to a doctor…

Eleonor had an exasperated sigh. Her son was unhappy; he should’ve been with Candy. She cursed Mrs. Marlowe for pressuring her son; she wished she could’ve protected him and stopped Candy, the only good thing that had happened to him, from leaving. Terry spent the day with his mother and his son. He told her about the collection of poems; “The queen of my thoughts”, he was writing about the one he loved. He recited a few lines to her;

It was a cool and foggy night

You came to me as a light

I had tears in my eyes coming down

And I was surprise by the dawn

I was stunned by you

By the sun you brought with you

The sun had given you the cutest gift

By putting freckles on your pretty nose…

You were like a ray of sunshine
Chasing all the rain away
When you come around
You bring brighter days
You're the perfect one for me
and you forever will be
and I will love you so, for always…

- You should publish your collection of poems, it’s really beautiful and so full of love…Said Eleonor

- But mum, it’s about Candy…

- Did you put her name somewhere?

- No….

- So no one will know and you could use a pen name…

- Great idea! I’ll think about it… I’m going to find a pen name and…we’ll see!

**********

Candy was packing her stuff for the trip back to France. She was now in a hurry to go back, far away from problems, the rumours, far away for gossips, far away from Eliza… far away from Terry. She had to concentrate on her marriage and on her baby and France was the perfect place. Annie and Patricia came to see her everyday before she left.

- Candy, you’re leaving for France, we’re going to miss you… said Annie

- Yes, Candy, said Patty, you’re leaving us again…

- It’s better that way, I’m going to live in my husband’s country said Candy calmly

- Why didn’t you marry an American like everybody? Said Annie

- He’s half-American, said Candy

- You know what I mean… the rumours are going to stop, said Annie

- Maybe, but I just want to be calm for the rest of my pregnancy. To be called an adulteress by Eliza, is not my idea of calm and rest…

- Someone should make her eat her words one day, said Patty

- Don’t worry, she’ll get her comeuppance said Candy, what goes around, comes around…

- She managed to get rid of you yet again… said Annie

- Don’t see it like that, said Candy, you could come and see me in France and we’re going to have fun and I will teach you French…

- Ok, said Annie, but we’re still going to miss you…

- It was actually the first time Eliza admitted that Terry and you were in love and were going to be married, said Patty

- I wonder what it took her to finally admit that, said Candy

- That Terry and you were in love? Said Annie, all the pain in the world!

They burst out laughing. They all took Candy to the train station; Annie, Patty, their spouse and Albert who was staying a little behind. Ever since his little conversation with Michael, he was avoiding him. Candy said goodbye to her friends and got on the train with her husband, to her new life. Once in New York, they went to eat something in a little restaurant before they got on board the boat. Their luggage was already on the boat.

- But Candy, said Michael, we’re going to eat on the boat…

- I’m going to be sick on the boat, Michael, so let me eat and take advantage of the firm ground as long we’re on it.

They sat a down at a table and they ordered their food. The owner approached them to say hello.

- Welcome to my… but… Candy?

This last one looked at him.

- Charlie? Hello! She said smiling

- Hello Candy, how are you? Said Charlie hugging her

- I’m fine. This is my husband Michael, said Candy

- Hello, said Michael

- Hello, said Charlie smiling

- You’re not mad at the world anymore? Asked Candy

- I’m sorry about that, I was a lout…. What happened to that impossible redhead with curls? Asked Charlie

- She’s still around making everybody’s life miserable, said Candy a little bitter, you know she harassed me for the money she spent on you when she thought you were Terry?

- Oh… that’s why you were trying to make flowers for sale… and how did you manage to pay her back? Asked Charlie

- Well Terry learned by a reporter that you were in Chicago in the hospital passing yourself off as him, and he sent me a cheque to cover the cost of your care…

- Oh… that was very generous of him, said Michael

- He said that you helped him when he was little and he owed you that and if using his identity is going to keep you out of trouble for a while, good, said Candy, that’s why he paid for your medical care, he knew sooner or later they were going to discover that you’re an impostor, and there will be bills to pay…

- That’s my buddy Terry! I didn’t know he did that! He never told me… but then again, he doesn’t really like to brag about his good deeds… said Charlie smiling.

- He told me to buy you a strawberry soda pop with the rest of the money, because it was your favourite… but when I came back, the police already took you away… your doctor and I drank the soda…

- Oh darn! I missed my soda! Said Charlie smiling; now I’ve paid my debt to society and I’m out of trouble for good. I’m married and father of a little boy; Sam. I married Sandra, by the way…

- Oh… congratulations, said Candy smiling

- She’s in the back, I’m going to tell her you’re here… you’re expecting a bundle of joy… said Charlie

- Yes, in 3 months, said Candy smiling and touching her belly

- Congratulations too…

- Thanks…

- Are you visiting New York for a few days with your husband?

- No, said Candy, I’m going to France for good with my husband…

- Oh…said Charlie smiling, so good luck… let me go get Sandra…

Sandra arrived a few minutes later with a little boy in her arms.

- Candy? She said smiling…

- Sandra! Said Candy getting up to kiss her, oh it’s good to see you again!

The two friends kissed laughing. Candy took little Sam in her arms.

- Hello you! Oh you’re so cute! Said Candy laughing

The baby was giggling.

- Candy, said Sandra, how are you?

- I’m fine. This is my husband, Michael….

- Pleased to meet you, said Sandra

- Pleased to meet you, said Michael, you have a beautiful baby

- Thank you. So what’s up with you, Candy?

- I went to France during the war, said Candy; I came back in September when I got pregnant…

- Oh…said Sandra smiling, I see. Candy you were at the war and you thought being part of a band was dangerous…

- I went to help the wounded, Sandra, not fight…it was my way of softening the horror by taking care of war victims…

- Of course Candy, you’re always ready to help others, said Sandra smiling, and you were right about me… I’m trying to imagine Sam revolting and joining a band… and it makes me sick….nauseous

- Maybe you’re having another baby…said Candy

- Candy…you’re very perceptive…said Sandra smiling

- I’m a nurse…said Candy with a smile…

- I’m three months pregnant said Sandra with a smile

- Congratulations! Said Candy and Michael

- Thank you, said Sandra

- How’s your father? And Cookie? Asked Candy

- My father is fine, still out at sea… and Cookie is now a real moose on the Seagull said Sandra

- That’s good, I’m happy for them. Tell them hi the next time you see them…

- Ok, said Sandra

Charlie brought them their meal and they started to eat. Sandra left with Charlie and the baby

- Like they say in France; Bon appetit! Said Charlie and I’ll see you later…

- Bon appetit! Said Sandra, I’ll come and see you before you go

- Thanks Sandra, thanks Charlie

- Thank you, said Michael…

Michael barely spoke during their conversation

- Michael, are you ok? Asked Candy

- Yes, why?

- Because we were talking about Terry, that doesn’t bother you?

- No, he’s a friend you have in common…

- I didn’t know it was Charlie’s restaurant, I assure you…

- I know, honey. Don’t worry about it, said Michael smiling

*
* *

Terry was passing by on his way to the theatre; he wanted to talk to Charlie about a play date for their sons. As soon as he got in, he felt her presence. He went behind in the kitchen and hid to look at her, he saw her eating with her husband. He was relieved to see that they had reconciled. Michael would’ve been a fool to let Candy go. He looked at the woman he loved with her husband; he was touching her belly which was now bigger and she was laughing out loud. Charlie saw him and followed his eyes.

- Terry?

- Charlie, hi… I’m going to the theatre. So I’ll see you tonight with Sam?

- Ok…. She’s going to France with her husband, for good…

- Oh… said Terry, the heart torn…

- You love her so much, Terry. I’m wondering why you’re not together…

- You know how…

- I mean, all this love should’ve won… against duty and obligations… I’m sorry I wasn’t there; I would’ve stopped from doing that foolishness…

Sandra arrived and got in the conversation.

- You and Candy are way too good for your own good, said Sandra

- I’ll see you tonight, Charlie said Terry, I’ll get out by the service door, Bye Sandra

- See you tonight, said Charlie

- Bye Terry, said Sandra, hang in there… I know it hurts you to see her with her husband…

- Thanks Sandra, said Terry

He looked at the queen of his thoughts one last time and got out by the service door.

Once in every life
Someone steals your heart
And you are forever changed
Even when you must part
You find it hard to leave
The feelings aren't gone
But a voice inside is telling you
You can't hold on

So say goodbye oh I can't say that I won't cry
Cause I'm so glad
For everything we had
The good and bad
Say goodbye
If you could just look at me
You'll know that I still love you so
Even though we have to say goodbye

No matter where you are

“Goodbye my love he said in his head”

*
* *

Candy and her husband finished their meal. Before they left, Charlie and Sandra came to say goodbye. They hugged each other…

- Good luck Candy and continue your work, you’re an excellent nurse…

- Thank you Charlie, bye and kiss little Sam for me….

- Bye Candy, said Sandra, come back and see us with your baby… I would really like to see it…and you’ll also see the new one

- Ok, said Candy smiling

- Michael, goodbye and good luck. Don’t let her go, she’s a really good wife, said Charlie

- I know, said Michael without cracking a smile

- Good luck Michael, said Sandra

- Goodbye Sandra, said Michael

Candy and Michael went to the harbour to take the boat for France

- I hope the ocean is calm said Michael

- Me too, said Candy

- I will be there with you all the way, honey. Everything is going to be fine

Michael felt better once they were on the boat. He was going to France with the woman he loved, far away from Terry, the man she still loves… Because for Terry’s voice to bring her back from the dead, she must’ve absolutely wanted to see him, he must’ve begged her with loving words to make her come back. She always had that spark and that body language when she talked about him… But Archie was right, she was his wife, she chose him, and he had no intentions of letting her go. He was crazy in love with her.

*
* *

At the Grandchesters, Mrs. Marlowe was trying to convince Susanna to go see a psychiatrist. Karen was also there.

- But mom, I’m fine…said Susanna

- No, said Mrs. Marlowe, Susanna, it’s just to talk, that’s all…

- Talk about what? Asked Susanna

- Karen, said Mrs. Marlowe, you try, maybe she’ll listen to you…

Mrs. Marlowe got out of the room to go see her grandson.

- Susanna, said Karen, listen, I know you think everything is fine, but…

- Karen, all I want is my husband… what’s the harm in that?

- The harm is that you want him intimately and he has to think about another woman, that’s not normal…

- But he was doing it before! It’s since he came back from the war… it’s because of Candy! That damn Candy! Why can’t she leave us alone?!

- Susanna, Candy has nothing to do with this…

- No, she has everything to do with this! She was with him in France! That’s why he didn’t come to see the baby… he wanted to stay near her! That’s why he wanted to go the war…

- He didn’t know she was there….

- I’m not so sure about that…

- Susanna, you know that if Candy wanted Terry, all she had to do is tell him and he would be out of here in a New York minute?

- What do you mean?

- I mean, you have to stop blaming Candy for your problems, that’s all. She left you the man she loved… she’s married and she’s having a baby…

- It might be Terry’s… I don’t believe in her “miss goody two shoes” act, she’s a pious little hypocrite!

- You see want I mean? You have to talk to someone…

- No!

Karen had a sigh and dropped the subject. She went to the theatre for the rehearsal and she went to see Terry

- Hi Terry…

- Karen, what’s up?

- I’m fine, but your wife…

- Now what?

- Ever since you’ve come back, you’ve been ignoring her…

- So what?

- So, she refuses to accept reality… she’s crazy about you. She thinks you’re refusing to be with her because of Candy…

Terry remained silent. Susanna was not wrong…

- Terry, said Karen, she’s right it’s because of Candy?

- Karen, you have to know that without Candy, there wouldn’t even be a baby… I don’t want to live a lie anymore….

- You mean, you don’t want a replacement anymore, because you’ve had the real thing! Oh Terry!

- I was wrong to do it the first time…

- You were wrong to do it with Candy! Said Karen outraged

- I didn’t do it with Candy, Karen

- But, then…why?

- Because, I simply decided not to live a lie anymore, it’s that simple. I’m going to talk to her. Thanks Karen. You’ve been a very good friend to her.

- You’re welcome. In the beginning I was feeling guilty to have obtained the role of Juliet after the accident…

- But you became friends… let’s go work Karen…

In the evening, when he went back home, his wife was in the living room waiting for him.

- Good evening Susanna how are you?

- Terry, she said with a beautiful smile, did you have a nice day?

Terry looked at her. Why was he punished that way? She was nice, but he didn’t feel anything for her. He didn’t even miss her during the war…

- Susanna, you didn’t have to wait for me…

- I like waiting for you, Terry, you know it…

- Susanna…

- I love you Terry, I love you so much… why won’t you be with me…?

- Susanna, it’s disloyal, you deserve better…

- But… I don’t care…

- You want to come with me to see the psychiatrist? I have to talk to him…

- Really?

- Yes, let’s go together…

- If you come with me, ok. If it could help our couple… even better!

- Now, you want to come with me upstairs and read a story to little Richard?

- Ok, she said smiling

Terry had a sigh of relief. To go with her was maybe the only way to take her to a psychiatrist. And a session would be good for him too. So the Grandchester couple started to go regularly to see a psychiatrist to talk about their lives, their childhood, and their married life: they had a lot on their plate…

*
* *

On the deck of the boat, it was foggy and Candy was taking a walk. She was thinking about one foggy night she had met that obnoxious boy who laughed at her freckles…but she had seen his tears and she wanted to cheer him up. In a way, she did, because he was laughing at her and not crying anymore.

If I should stay I would only be in your way So I'll go, but I know I'll think of you every step of the way

Nothing is so good it lasts eternally

Perfect situations must go wrong

But this has never yet prevented me

From wanting far too much for far too long

Looking back, I could have done it differently

Won a few more moments, who can tell?

But it took time to understand the man

Now at least I know, I know him well

Wasn't it good, wasn’t it fine

Isn't it madness he can't be mine?

But in the end, he needs a little more than before

Take care of his responsibilities and his duty

I would have prevent him from doing the right thing

I know him so well

No one in your life is with you constantly

No one is completely on your side

And though I could move my world to be with him

Still the gap between us is too wide

Looking back, I could have played it differently

Learned about the man before I fell

But I was ever so much younger then

Didn't I know how it would go?

We kept missing each other…

If I knew from the start

Why am I falling apart?

I never though it would be easy to be without him

But I didn’t know it would be worse than torture

Isn't it madness he can't be mine?

Stuck with an unwanted duty he’s miserable

Perhaps the offspring is a ray of sunshine

It took me some to understand him

Bittersweet memories

That is all I'm taking with me

So goodbye, please don't cry

We both know that’s what we have to do

I hope life treats you kind,

And I hope you have all you've dreamed of

And I wish to you joy and happiness

But above all this, I wish you love

Farewell my love, I will always you

Candy was crying thinking about Terry. She thought she felt him at Charlie’s, but she didn’t want to start and look for him in front of Michael after everything they’ve been through. So she was on the deck, in the fog, thinking about Terry, saying goodbye to Terry, the love of her life, for good.

“Goodbye my love, I will love you forever”

IT’S OVER…

Chapter 18
“That’s life…”

Candy was now leaving in Paris, in the apartment they shared during the war. The country was trying to get over the horrible war and the population although sad to have lost so many men, was very happy not to hear, gunshots, shell bomb exploding anymore. Candy was trying to speak French, but she always spoke in English with Michael. She wasn’t doing anything; Michael had a house keeper who was taking care of everything. He continued to work at the hospital and was trying not to take night shifts in case his wife needed him. He didn’t want to leave her alone. The house keeper left only when came back home. Candy was feeling lonely sometimes, but Michael’s family was there supporting her and encouraging her. Candy couldn’t wait to have her baby; at least she won’t be alone during the day anymore. Sometimes she wondered what her life would’ve been like if she had married Terry… how many children would she have had? He had a boy with Susanna… how many children did he want? Tears came to her eyes and she wiped them. She could tell herself a million times that Terry was in her past, but she couldn’t stop her head thinking about what might have been, if she had chosen to stay after the accident. Now that she thought about it she was wondering what went through her head to have put some else’s desires before hers… No, she had to think about her baby, her husband even if she felt her life was incomplete…. She thought everything was fine with Michael, until that day at the German frontier with Terry; that awful custom officer forced them to kiss and she never felt what she felt during that unexpected kiss, totally by chance… she had the memory of the stolen kiss, as magnificent, but what she felt during that second kiss was more wonderful than the dream, and she never felt that way again. That kiss had been marvellous but it was also a disaster, because it made her realise what she was missing with Terry. That's why she didn’t want to talk about it with him after….he was Susanna’s husband, and she was the one who had the joy to be his wife and the mother of his son.

She had no idea, of course, that it was not the case. That, like her, ever since that kiss at the German frontier, Terry had put his whole life in question… Terry had decided not to leave a lie anymore, not to be with his wife anymore because he was thinking about the one he really loved. She went with Susanna to the psychiatrist and they had individual session, for months. In the end, Susanna accepted the situation. Terry would rather practice abstinence instead of imagining her in Candy’s place. He didn’t want to use her to satisfy his desires. She became bitter with him but was behaving well in front of her son. Terry was telling himself if he had been more mature and older he wouldn’t have gave in to Mrs. Marlowe’s pressure, because he was now stuck with a woman he would never love. Little Richard was the only positive thing in that story. And even that, it was because of Candy, it was her face he had seen instead of Susanna’s….Oh my God! What a craziness that was! Well it won’t happen again… much to Susanna’s disarray.

Time passed and Candy was ready to give birth. Michael tried not to be on the night shift, but he had to do it at least once a month. Candy had to get to the hospital alone. Michael was going to be sorry he was working that night. But he was a doctor; he’s going to be in the hospital. She managed to catch a cab and she arrived at the hospital. The nurses recognised her and ran to help her. They called Michael who ran to his wife’s bedside.

- Miss Daredevil, you had to choose tonight…

- It’s not me, it’s your child… said Candy, I’m happy you’re a doctor, what if you were a security guard somewhere….

Michael burst out laughing and stayed with his wife until she gave birth. It was a very beautiful little girl, blond like her mom and dad she even had the freckles on the nose!

- Oh Candy, she’s perfect, said Michael with tears in his eyes, she looks so much like you, and she even has your green eyes…

Candy smiled weakly. She was so tired. She hadn’t slept all night and she only wanted one thing, that was sleeping. But not before she kissed her little girl and named her…

- Did you think of a name? Asked Michael

- I thought about one…

- Go ahead…

- The world is getting over the war, and it’s hoping to have a good life from now on, “la vie en rose” so I thought about “Rosemonde”…

- Rosemonde… that’s pretty

- Well for her middle name, how about the feminine form of her father’s name?

- Rosemonde Michelle Durand…you didn’t notice something special?

- What?

- What’s today’s date?

- The…. Oh my God!

- So we’re going to add your given name, Rosemonde Candice Michelle Durand, because she was born on the day of your birthday

- Thank you Michael, said Candy with tears in her eyes

- No, thank you for this beautiful little girl…

He kissed her on the lips for a long time. Then she was so tired after all the labour, that she fell asleep. Michael stayed near her.

**********

Time passed and in Chicago, Patricia also had a little girl, she called Caroline. She was very happy and she wished Candy was there with her.

Eliza, even since the problems she caused Candy, was having problems with her husband. He didn’t understand how she took such a pleasure to twist the truth by adding her own lies and telling Michael about Candy and Terry. She was trying to make up for it by taking more care of her daughter and her husband.

Neil and is wife had another baby a girl this time, name Annabelle, the first one was a boy, Neil Jr.

Albert finally got married and also started a family of his own. He had a son, Will and a girl Maryrose. This time he was sure that Candy was off limits… she was on another continent, happily married with a family of her own.

Annie was pregnant but she didn’t tell anybody in the beginning because she was a little ashamed to have gotten pregnant so soon after Anthony…Her husband kept her secret, until it was not possible to do so anymore. She had a little girl she named Nina, with black hair like hers.

Terry had finally published his collection of poems. He didn’t mention the name of his beloved. He was calling her “the Queen of his thoughts”, it was also the title of the book and the author was Tony George Gorman. It was a bestseller because each and every one of his poems were so touching and so full of love. They talked about their meeting, their time together, their separation, their reunion, their separation and meeting again during the war and their separation for good… it was in figurative way and it was very romantic. Every lover recognised themselves in those poems. By publishing his most intimate and deep thoughts, he was hoping she would read the book and that she would understand that he loved her more than anything in the world. But she was now living in France, and his book will take a few years to be published in France… but his message was sent and it was going get to its destination sooner of later.

Susanna didn’t know that Terry had published the collection of poems he wrote on Candy; otherwise she would’ve had one more reason to hate her rival. That rival who had left them but didn’t seem to want to disappear completely from their lives.

The author Tony George Gorman was unknown. The critics were more than nice. Some thought it was a pen name, but they couldn’t be certain. With the end of the war, the world needed love, the collection was translated in different languages among them French and it was also published in France.

What the world needs now is love, sweet love
It's the only thing that there's just too little of
What the world needs now is love, sweet love,
No not just for some but for everyone.
Lord, we don't need another mountain,
There are mountains and hillsides enough to climb
There are oceans and rivers enough to cross,
Enough to last till the end of time.

Lord, we don't need another meadow
There are cornfields and wheat fields enough to grow
There are sunbeams and moonbeams enough to shine
Oh listen, lord, if you want to know.

If there was more love in this world

This awful war, from which we are still recovering from

Would never have happened

The blood bath would have been avoided

The young men would be worried about their prom

Instead of thinking about killing themselves

With the face of the enemy

So let’s rebuild our beautiful land

That God so kindly gave us

But that we destroy without a second thought

Just to satisfy our selfish ambitions

So yes indeed, truer words were never spoken

What the world need now, it’s love, sweet love

That’s the only thing, that there just too little of…

**********

Time and years passed and the children grew up. Michael had inherited of a castle in the Loire region from his godfather. The castle came with the title of count… the Count of Montour, had a little fortune now. His wife and his daughter looked more like two sisters than mother and daughter, were living with him. They were happy and they lived in harmony. But there was a black cloud; the count’s health was deteriorating, an old war wound that had become infected again….it was nobody’s fault really, the bad sanitary conditions during the war…that horrible war had long term repercussions. He was not alone, a lot or others found themselves sick years later. They say Michael had been exposed to toxic gases during his time in the enemy army, some even said they were exposed to radiation…The Germans did experience on war prisoners….Some were lucky not to have catch anything, or anything life threatening that is, some were not so lucky. His wife, heart broken, was taking care of him everyday. She was a nurse, she might not have worked for a time, but she was taking care of her husband very well.

- Candy, said Michael, thank you for everything you’re doing for me…

- Michael, don’t be ridiculous, you’re my husband…

- I’m sorry, I couldn’t make you another baby…

- Michael, Rosemonde is wonderful, we have a child

- I wished I had a son, to leave him my title…

- You’ll leave it to your daughter, said Candy smiling, and she’ll give it to her son, when she’ll have one…

- I have something for you… he said, when I went in town the other day to get my magazines, I saw a book, a collection of poems wrote by an American, the title is “The Queen of my thoughts”

Candy was startled. “The Queen of my thoughts”? That was one of the nicknames Terry gave her; the most recent actually because he called her that when he thought she couldn’t hear him, when he was begging her to come back.

- What a beautiful title, said Candy smiling

- Isn’t it? Said Michael smiling giving her the book

- Thank you Michael

Candy opened the book and she read the firs page which had the message;

“For you my love, I hope it’s going to make you happy. For always…”

Candy felt all funny, she thought she heard Terry’s voice talking to her, while she was reading those lines. She looked at the name of the author: Tony Georges Gorman, T.G.G….Terrence Graham Grandchester…

“Oh my God! Terry!” She said in her head

- Thank you again Michael, I’m going to read it during my free time…

- You’re welcome my love. Is Rosemonde back?

- She should be back soon…

- I was thinking of sending her to England, boarding school

- In England? Why?

- For her English, of course

- But she speaks English perfectly…

- I know, but I want her to be more…refined…I read that St. Paul college in London was good…

- The Royal College of St. Paul? You’ve got to be kidding me!

- No it’s got a very good reputation now…

- Now?

- Yes, the sisters are less severe on their punishment, they don’t lock up children in attics or donjons anymore

- But… the program has changed?

- Yes, now, they have different courses…you come out of there ready for university… she still wants to be a doctor?

- Yes…but, to be separated from my daughter…

- Candy, you’ll end up separating one day…

- What about you? You don’t have long to live, you really want to be separated from your daughter in your last days?

- Candy, she will need to keep her mind busy when I’m gone. To stay here, is going to remind her painful memories…and you would probably want to go see your friends in America…

- Yes, but…

- And she wants to go, all her friends are there…

- Ok then, if that’s what she wants….said Candy sadly

- Candy don’t be sad. Life goes on, even when I won’t be here anymore…you’re too young to stay alone. I’m not going to resent you…

- Michael, don’t talk like that, please

- Candy, I got used to the idea of dying, I’m ready.

They heard noise at the door. Rosemonde was back. She ran while she climbed the stairs, two by two and she arrived breathless in her parents’ bedroom.

- Mom! Dad! Hello! She said happily

She ran to her mother and she jumped to her neck, she ran to her father and did the same thing. She was wearing her uniform and her blond hair was curly and falling on her shoulders to the middle of her back. She was the splitting image of her mother.

- Mom, dad told you for England?

- Yes…

- It’s the same school as you!

- I know, but…

- Please mom, I want to go to England so much

- But boarding school…

- I’m going to adapt fine, you know I adapt to every situations… and dad agrees with me….

Candy looked at her daughter and shook her head. She was so full of life… she saw herself at that age in college… but the college reminded her of Terry…

- You can come with me… said Rosemonde and make sure that everything is alright

- Ok, honey, if you want it… said Candy with weary tone

- Thanks mom! She said jumping to her neck all happy

- Are you sure it’s not for Anthony Cornwell you want to go there?

- Anthony who?

- Come on, said Candy I know you like him….

- Mom, I don’t know what you’re talking about…

Candy smiles and didn’t respond. But she didn’t want to be separated from her daughter. She left Michael and her daughter and went to the living room to read her collection of poems. She recognise her story, “their story”, the meeting on the boat, the college, everything was there! TGG; he kept the initials in case she didn’t recognise the author… but just with the title and the first words of the book, Candy knew that the book was for her. Terry had sent her a message, that he loved her, that he will always love her, for always…

You're the perfect one for me
and you forever will be
and I will love you so, for always…

“Oh Terry, she said in her head, I love you too, but you will know about it…”

Tears started to come down on her cheeks. Life was not fair. Michael was dying little by little; she was going to be a widow….and alone.

She took her daughter to England with Michael; he was in wheel chair, so he won’t get too tired. They took advantage of their time to visit London for a few days and Candy was hit with memories, the donjon, the meditation room, Terry…Candy showed Michael around. Sister Margaret was now Mother Margaret. She was very happy to see Candy and her husband and to have her daughter in her school.

- Candy! Said Mother Margaret hugging her, it’s so good to see you, you haven’t changed a bit!

- I’m Rosemonde, Candy’s daughter…

- Oh… but said Mother Margaret smiling , sorry she looks so much like you…

- Hello Mother Margaret, said Candy hugging her, it’s good to see too. This is my husband Michael

- Hello Mother Margaret, Candy always spoke highly of you….

- Mr. Durand, I’m very pleased to make your acquaintance…It’s so good to see all the former students bring their children here…

- That’s thanks to you, said Candy…you were very nice to us…

- You were a handful, Candy said Mother Margaret smiling

They talked about old times while they took Rosemonde to her bedroom. In the hallway they met the other students, among them Caroline, Patty’s daughter and Nina, Annie’s daughter…

- Rosemonde!! They both yelled

- Caroline, Nina! Said Rosemonde running to hug them

The young girls were screaming and laughing. Then they went and hugged Candy and Michael. They took Rosemonde to her room and talked for a while. Then Candy and Michael had to leave.

- Rosemonde , we have to go, honey… said Candy

- Ok, mom. Dad. I’m going to be fine…

- Ok said Michael, I just want you to be happy…

- I am daddy said Rosemonde hugging him hard. Don’t worry about me…

- Goodbye darling said Candy hugging her…

- Bye mom…

- Bye Aunt Candy, bye Uncle Michael said Caroline and Nina…

- Bye girls, said Michael, be good.

Candy and Michael took the boat back to France. She was sad to be without her daughter but she had Michael and she spent the maximum time with him.

Rosemonde was happy to be in England in boarding school. All her friends were there, that was one of the reasons she wanted to be there so much…With Annie and Patty’s daughter, they had their group… Elizabeth Preston, Eliza’s daughter didn’t like her at all. Maybe it was in the blood…

Rosemonde had thing for Anthony Cornwell, but she didn’t want her mother to know, because she might tell her aunt Annie who would tell her son… Anthony was so charming, but he barely realised she was alive. She was still happy to be with all her cousins…

- Rosemonde this is so great! Said Caroline, they should’ve put us in the same room…

- I know, but if we were in the same room, we wouldn’t sleep at night! Said Rosemonde

- No kidding! Said Nina

Rosemonde went on the pretend Pony hill, her mom talked about so much. She was trying to imagine her mother at that age… she was thinking about Anthony and she was imagining she was talking to him…

- Oh Anthony, you are so charming and cute… she said out loud

- Well, if you tell me that, I’m going to run for my life!

- Anthony!

- No, sorry, I’m not that corny!

- Anthony is not corny! And it’s very impolite to eaves drop on other people’s conversation!

The young man was on the tree and he jumped down. He had big blue eyes and dark brown hair a little long… he had a mocking smile.

- So, you shouldn’t have talked out loud…

- I thought I was alone…

- You should check and see if you’re alone, if you want to humiliate yourself like that for that dandy…

- Anthony is not a dandy!

- Walls have ears and windows have eyes…

- There are no walls here…

- But the wind could take your words and take them were there not suppose to and create problems for you…

Rosemonde looked at him surprised, he seem so poetic all of a sudden.

- You’re the new girl that had just arrived from France?

- How do you know that?

- I could hear your French accent… and your nose, your freckles… it’s funny and it’s cute

- Funny? My freckles are funny! Is that your idea of flirting?

- Who says I’m flirting with you? You overestimate yourself, my dear French girl… I’m not your corny dandy… he said with a mocking tone

- You ill-mannered lout! Anthony is a thousand times better than you! She said angry

- The blond dandy better than me? Give me a break! You have no taste my dear little French girl… I bet you won’t be able to stop thinking about me after our meeting, I’m irresistible!

- Modesty, sir, is a virtue!

- Charity begins at home…Le soleil t’a donné le plus beau des cadeaux en mettant des taches de son sur ton joli nez…(The sun had given you the cutest gift,byputting freckles on your pretty nose)…

- You know French…

- I can give you some English lessons if you want…

- I don’t need any English lessons, my mother is American!

- I can teach you the “upper class English accent”…

- What’s wrong with my accent?

- Aside from the French heritage? Everything!

- Tu n’es qu’un petit anglais sans manière!!! (You’re just a little English boy with no manners what-so-ever!)

- Et moi j’adore ton accent français (and I like your French accent)…bye little French girl… See you later…

He left leaving Rosemonde a little puzzled. Who was this mysterious young man? But… no, Anthony… but… oh… she went back to her room more confused than ever. She wrote a long letter to her father telling her about her day and also about the mysterious young man. She knew her father didn’t have long to live, and she wanted him to have news from her every single day. So it was like she was writing him a journal with a daily log…

**********

Candy was in France with Michael, whose health was getting worse. He liked receiving letters from his daughter and he was glad she was so happy. His days were numbered and Rosemonde came back from England a few days before his death. She was telling him about college and the British the discipline… She was prepared to see her father die, but she was still devastated. That’s one of the reason she wanted to be in boarding school, so after her father’s death she’ll have somewhere to be, not the castle that reminded her of him. Michael’s whole family was there to say goodbye.

Candy was in tears at her husband’s bedside. She cursed the war for the thousandth time, for those terrible consequences.

- Candy, I love you, he said weakly

- I love you too, my love, I love you so much said Candy crying

- Candy, be happy…promise me you’ll be happy…

Candy felt like she was hearing Terry’s words on those hospital stairs…

- I promise you, Michael, don’t over do it…she said

- Oh it’s the end, I can feel it…Rosemonde…

- Yes, daddy said the young girl in tears

- I love you, my little girl, don’t forget it. Be good to your mommy and if she has a new husband, you can love him too, I won’t be mad… ok?

- Oh daddy! Said Rosemonde crying on him

- Mom, dad, everybody…goodbye said Michael

Michael’s mother was crying on him and his sister was hugging her father and crying.

- Candy… said Michael

- Yes…

- Farewell, my love…

And he expired. Candy burst into tears and her daughter came and hugged her, they cried together the loss of the man they both loved.

Michael was buried two days later, his whole family was present. Candy was inconsolable for days. Her friends suggested she come and see them in America. Candy decided to go on a cruise around the world; maybe the pain will go away….

Rosemonde went back to school and threw herself into her school work. She didn’t laugh anymore, all she did was work. Her friends and cousins tried to console her, in vain. She didn’t go outside anymore, either. She spent her time crying over her father when she was alone. One evening, she heard some noise at her window; it was the young man from the pretend Pony hill.

- What do you want? Said Rosemonde, leave me alone! What are you doing in my bedroom? She Asked in tears

- I came to present you my condolences and to tell you that I know what you’re feeling…

- How?

- I lost my mother last year… you feel like the pain is going to kill you, but time goes on and the pain is still there ,so are you and it’s not killing you…

- But he was so young…

- My mother was also young…

- It hurts, it hurts too much!!! Oh Daddy why did you have to live us? She said bursting into tears

The young man approached her and took her in his arms. Rosemonde cried against his chest. He went to sit on the bed with her, without letting go of her and she ended up falling asleep. He waited a little and then he put her on the bed, covered her and left the room.

*
* *

Candy was on cruise and she was trying to have fun. Despite the cloud of sadness that was following her everywhere. Michael… it was not fair, he was so young! There were some masquerade ball, but she couldn’t get the courage to dance. In the long run, she got used to the pain. Michael… she thought about him everyday, like she thought about Anthony everyday and she thought about Terry everyday… she thought about the collection of poems he wrote for her. That book was published a few years ago, but Michael gave it to her just before his death….like he wanted to give her hope…

*
* *

Terrence Grandchester was coming back from the theatre. He was now the manager of the Strasford troupe. He has been a widower for a year and his son was in school in England. He found his house empty and lifeless. He decided to put the house up for sale. That house reminded him so much painful and unpleasant memories. Susanna’s house, he wanted to erase any trace of his painful past. Her fragile health which only deteriorated after the birth of their son; never got better again. She finally passed away peacefully one morning and Terry was relieved that she won’t have to suffer anymore.

His son was devastated. He had seen that his father didn’t love his mother. Sometimes he was hearing them fighting. She was always talking about “her”; he didn’t love her because of “her”, damn “her”. Richard started to hate “her” without knowing who it was, the one who was stopping his mother to be happy with his father, “her” was a monster. But why did his father love a monster? He had tried to ask his father who “her” was, but he told her that it didn’t concern him, that it was grown up things.

- Dad… who is “her”? asked his son

- No one you should worry about, son

- But mum is always talking about her in such mean terms…

- Richard, I assure you, it’s not your problem, I’ll take care of it….

- You don’t love mum, why did you marry her then? Did you get her in trouble?

- Richard, please….not now

- It’s always the same thing with you! You never tell me anything, and you make her cry! I hate you! Said Richard getting out of the room

He went to his mother who was crying and hugged her.

- Don’t worry mum, I’ll always be with you

- Thank you honey said Susanna crying

Terry would look at the scene powerless. He tried to love Susanna, but he couldn’t. He loved only one woman…

Susanna was now gone and his son hated him.

The future seemed so empty and unpredictable. He had no financial problems, he had written a lot of plays and a lot of books under his real name and also under his pen name. He was managing the theatre. Robert Hathaway who was managing the troupe before had lost his wife in a car accident almost 5 years ago and 3 years ago, he started to court Eleonor Baker and he had married her. Hathaway had become his stepfather… Terry was happy for his mother; she needed someone to make her an honest woman. That was never too soon!

He had an apartment for a while where he used to go to be alone and write in peace. He decided to live there while he waited to buy another house. He wanted his son to be with him, so they could choose together. But his son was angry with him, and he blamed him for his mother’s sadness, that’s why he was in boarding school on another continent.

- I just want to get away from you! Said Richard

- You’re punishing me for not loving your mother…

- Why didn’t you love her…?

- You can’t chose who you love, Richard…you’ll learn it soon enough

- But she loved you so much! Boy, you’re heartless…! At least I’ll be far far away from you from now on!

Terry had an impression of déjà vu; angry with his father because of his indifference for his mother… Life was repeating itself, over and over…

IT’S OVER…

Chapter 19
“The May Festival… 21 years later…”

Rosemonde got used to the pain of the loss of her father. Life goes on. Her father was in a better place, and he wasn’t suffering anymore. He was happy and in peace. Her joy of life came back little by little. Life was too short to stay sad she said to herself and her father wouldn’t want her to mop around because of him, he would want her to be happy. Her friends were glad to find the pranky girl back. Despite their moment of closeness, the young boy with brown hair and her, were not in better terms. They continued bickering at every occasion! Caroline and Nina, talked to her about it.

- Rosemonde, I thought you like my brother, said Nina

- I do like your brother, why? Asked Rosemonde

- You seem to like your cute brown hair boy…said Caroline

- Are you kidding? I think he’s unbearable! He’s a lout! He’s arrogant, too sure of himself, pretentious, bossy!

- And he’s got eyes to die for! said Nina

- Rosemonde, there’s a thin line between love and hate… said Caroline

- You’ve got a thing for your cute brown hair boy with blue eyes… said Nina

- No, said Rosemonde

- Yes, said Caroline, and you’ve got good taste, he’s great…

- I thought you’ll be for your cousin, said Rosemonde

- My cousin is an idiot if he can’t see you… said Caroline

- He needs glasses, said Nina joking

- Caroline, Nina, stop it please, said Rosemonde thinking

But Rosemonde couldn’t stop thinking about those very blue eyes… Her heart was racing every time she saw him and it jumped every time she thought about him….

**********

Candy continued to cruise around the world. The pain, she knew it wouldn’t go away, but it was seeking shelter in a part of the heart and stopped hurting. Michael… Life goes on. She had made him the promise to be happy and it’s not by being down in the dumps all day long that she’s going to be happy. The boat she was in, arrived in New York. She decided to get off and to go to Chicago to see her friends. They were very happy to see her.

- Candy! It’s so good to see you… how are you? Said Annie

- I’m fine… I’m ok… I’m better… said Candy

- That’s good, said Patricia, you’re back in America to stay?

- Yes, everything in France reminds me of Michael… I put the castle up for rent…

- And Rosemonde how is she? Asked Annie

- She’s better too; I talked to her on the phone in New York…said Candy

- Life goes on, said Patty…

- You want to buy a house here in Chicago?

- Maybe… I’m going to go to the Pony home. How’s Miss Pony?

- She’s fine, she’s just very old… she can’t take care of the children like before, said Annie

- She like the queen mother… said Candy

- Yes, Sister Maria is not that old, she can continue yelling at the children…said Patty

- I would’ve taken Sister Maria over the Mother Grey at St. Paul, anytime, said Candy

- Yes, you called her an old hag… said Patty

- And to apologise, I told her I was sorry to have called her an old hag, even if I really meant it! Said Candy laughing

- All that for my turtle, said Patty, Oh Candy I missed you so much!

- I missed you all too said Candy hugging them

They talked about good old time and they laughed out loud. Annie had two more children, a girl, Sherry and a boy Bobby and Patty had two more boys Stear Jr. and Ethan and one girl, Martha, after her crazy grandmother.

Candy went to the Pony Home to see her two mothers. Miss Pony was old. She spent her days sitting on a chair, looking at the children. The orphanage was now big and there were a lot of employees. Annie and Albert had made sure that all the members of the staff had a heart of gold. Sister Maria was older, she was now responsible for the Pony Home.

- Candy, honey, said Sister Maria, how are you?

- I’m fine, thank you. I’m hanging in there… how are my dear brothers; Tom and Jimmy?

- Tom is fine, Candice-Marie is now a very beautiful young girl… she has two brothers, Tommy and Steve

- I know, I was corresponding with him… and he sent me pictures…

- Jimmy is now taking care of the Cartwright farm ever since his father passed away, even before that

- How’s Miss Pony?

- She’s fine, she’s there. But she’s not doing anything, she’s too tired

- Can I see her? Where is she?

- She’s in the living room

Candy got in and she saw her mother on a rocking chair reading a book. Her face was wrinkled, but it was still smiling and warm. Sister Maria approached Miss Pony and told her…

- Miss Pony, we have a visitor….Said Sister Maria

- Who? Asked Miss Pony with a shaky voice

- Me, said Candy, it’s me Candy, Miss Pony

- Candy? Oh my God! Said Miss Pony

Candy approached her and she hugged her.

- Candy, you lost your husband, how are you?

- I’m fine thank you…

- How’s Rosemonde?

- She’s fine, she’s in college, St. Paul…

- Like you…that’s good

Candy, didn’t stay for a long time, so she didn’t want get her too tired. She then went to the Cartwright farm to see Jimmy.

- Boss! Said Jimmy hugging her

- Jimmy! Oh, it’s so good to see you!

- You too… how are you?

- I’m fine… I’m hanging in there…

- Come and meet my wife…

He introduced her to his wife Dora and his 4 kids! There names were; James, Jeremy, Jeanny and Dorina. She spent some time with them and then she went to see Tom and his family.

- Candy, my poor little sister! I wanted to come and visit you in France, Said Tom

- Thank you Tom, she said hugging him, where’s your daughter?

- Candice-Marie? Called Tom

- Yes daddy! Said a very pretty young girl with brown hair and blue eyes

- Come and say hello to Candy, said Tom

- Aunty Candy? Oh…

She ran and jumped to her neck.

- How’s France? Paris, fashion? How are you?

- Great, I’ll take you there one day if you want to, I’m fine… I brought you some clothes said Candy giving her a bag…

- Really? Thank you aunty Candy! She said hugging her, what a nice surprise! When are you going back to France? You really can take me there?

- Yes… But I’m going to stay in Chicago for a while…

- Oh… but tell me if you’re going to France… come on let’s go and talk…How have you been holding up since your husband died?

She took her in the house where she saw, Tom’s wife and the other two children. She spent some time with them and she went back to Chicago in the evening.

She found the men who where at work when she arrived in the morning, home; they screamed and laughed, kissed each other, with tears of joy.

- I missed you all so much! I’m back for good, for now at least… said Candy

- Great! Said Stear

- You want to stay here? Asked Albert

- I want to buy a little house….

- Oh but Candy, you’re welcome here, you know that…

- I know, thank you, said Candy

- Welcome back Candy, said Neil

Candy brought a little house and she spent her time volunteering in charity centres. She was working 2 days a week at St. Joan’s hospital. She even found some of her colleagues, among them Flammy who had come back from France after the war. She was married and she had a little boy.

- I’m sorry for Michael Candy, she said, he was a good man. I worked with him in moving hospitals…

- Thanks Flammy… said Candy with tears in her eyes

**********

Time passed and it was spring again, the time for the May Festival. Candy remembered how much she wanted the great uncle William to come to the May Festival. Her daughter was born in May, the same day as her. She will go to England for the May Festival. She wrote her daughter to tell her the good news. This last one was crazed with joy. Her mother was coming… Candy’s friends decided to go to London too; they were going to make the trip as a group to their old school.

In the end, everybody was in London, everybody didn’t take the same boat, meaning Eliza, but everybody found themselves in the school yard. The memories came back and they were all smiling, and talking. The students were happy to see their parents.

- Mum!! Said Rosemonde running to her and jumping to her neck

- Oh baby, how are you?

- I’m fine, what about you?

- I miss you, honey…

- I missed you too, mum…I’m happy you came…

- Me too… it’s reminding me so much memories… said Candy smiling

- You told me… it must’ve been funny to disguise yourself as a boy; Romeo, then as Juliet…

- Yes. Sister Margaret is now the reverend mother, she was much nicer than Mother Grey …

Candy went to her daughter’s room with her.

- So, did you manage to get Anthony’s attention?

- Mum…no… I think he sees me like a little sister like Nina or a cousin like Caroline…

- I’m sorry honey….

- Oh, it’s ok… I’m still young…

- Do you have any other suitor?

- Yes…No…I don’t know…

- You don’t know?

- We keep arguing and he gets on my nerves…

Candy didn’t respond. She was back years earlier when she had just arrived in college…

- Mum? Mum?!! You’re daydreaming?

- Oh…I’m sorry. Get dressed; you’re one of the May girls…

- I like your costume mum, it’s very nice…

- Yours is nice too, it’s a costume party…

The May Festival was fun; there was music, a play, dances, a parade, and finally the party, with a lot of food and drinks. There were a lot of people; they were all dressed in costume from the Romeo and Juliet theme, the parents included. Candy was with Rosemonde getting something to drink, when they heard;

- Here’s the little French girl! Your French accent doesn’t seem to want to disappear… where’s your blond dandy?

Candy turned around and she had the impression of having a vision… but, it was impossible!

- Richard! Said the voice of a man, be more polite with the young…

He stopped when he saw the daughter but really went he saw the mother. Oh but…

- Freckles? Candy? Hello…

Candy was looking and she saw a Terry more mature and very attractive. He still had his long hair. She never thought she would see him again in St. Paul College. Her eyes drowned in Terry’s blue eyes. Oh… she was falling in love with him all over again…all over again? She’s always been in love with him!

- Terry! Oh…Hello…

Terry was looking at the queen of his thoughts and didn’t seem to realise that she was in front of him, after dreaming about it for years; she was even more beautiful than in his memory, more mature, her long blond hair and wavy were falling on her shoulders. She looked more like Rosemonde’s sister than her mother…

The two teens were looking at them surprised. Their parents knew each other? And they seemed mesmerised by one another! What was going on?

- Mum, you know the father of this lout? Asked Rosemonde

- Dad, you know the mother of this little French girl with no manners?

- Who are you calling no manners? You gentleman in shorts! Said Rosemonde

- Gentleman in shorts? Did you find that on your own? Said Richard with a mocking tone

- Terry, this is my daughter, Rosemonde, said Candy

- Pleased to meet you… said Terry kissing her hand

- Sir… said Rosemonde stunned

- And this young man so charming, is my son , Richard, said Terry

- Please to meet you, said Candy…

- Madam, said Richard kissing her hand

- Rosemonde, your British accent has improved a lot, should I thank this young man here? said Candy ironically

- Mum! Said Rosemonde

- Of course, without me she would still be rolling her “R”s and would be saying “Ze” instead of “The”…said Richard

- I was speaking English before I met you, you little pretentious! Said Rosemonde

- I don’t know what language you spoke, but it wasn’t Shakespeare’s language… said Richard laughing

- How dare you…! Said Rosemonde

They continued arguing, but their parents weren’t listening anymore, they were looking at each other… they didn’t think they would see each other again… they both thought they were dreaming… then, they realised that their children were still exchanging words. They were both back years earlier…

- Richard! That’s enough, said Terry

- Rosemonde, said Candy, stop it!

- But mum…said Rosemonde

- But dad…said Richard

- That’s enough! Said Candy, it’s party time and you keep arguing, you have to have fun, you’re young only once in your life…

- That’s true, have fun instead of arguing… I can tell you Richard that the time I time I spent here, in St. Paul, is the one of the best time of my life… said Terry

- Me too, said Candy, I have one of my most beautiful memories of school here and in Scotland…

- Yes, Scotland, said Terry looking at her tenderly

The two teens were looking at them astonished… what the heck was that?

- Did we miss something? said Richard

- Apparently…Mum do you have something to tell me?

- Yes, dad, did I miss something, or what? Said Richard

Candy and Terry looked at each other; it was déjà vu, all over again!

- Why don’t you two go and dance, said Candy, we’re going to talk later…

- Yes later, said Terry

The waltz that was starting was “Anthony’s”… Terry remembered; he got angry…but now that he thought about it, he thought it was so ridiculous…

- Princess Juliet, may I have this dance? Said Terry

- Are you sure? Said Candy hesitating

- And certain… he said winking at her

- Then, I’d be delighted, Prince Romeo… she said like in a dream

Terry held her close and they danced to the end of the music this time. Their children were looking at them still stunned.

Annie and Patty saw them from afar.

- Candy is dancing with Terry? Said Annie

- Yes, he’s the one for her… he lost is wife too, they could finally have a chance to be together and happy…

- He lost his wife? When?

- About a year ago… I heard some ladies talking over there… they thought Terry was cute… Candy can finally be with Terry if she wants to…

- From your mouth to God’s ears Patty, from your mouth to God’s ear!

Eliza was looking at the scene, Candy and Terry dancing.

“Twenty years later, she’s still the only one he sees! But he’s even more handsome than in my memory and so attractive… she said to herself, why was I such a pain? Oh Terry, I still love you so much…”

She decided she was going to try and seduce him. She has been a divorcee for a few years, her husband had left her… and as a male companion, Terry would fit the profile perfectly… He was still the future duke of Grandchester…

Candy was on cloud nine. This meeting by chance was for her a very beautiful thing. With all the memories coming to her, he was the missing piece, and he was there. They were both smiling during the few minutes the dance lasted.

- Your daughter is your splitting image, said Terry

- Your son looks a lot like you too, said Candy

- He’s getting on her nerves…

- No, she likes him…

- You think so?

- Yes, when Rosemonde is angry, she speaks French… and she’s speaking English, and a very good English, I might add with your son… she likes him…

- He likes her too… it was like watching a movie of the two of us 21 years ago…

- No kidding…

The music was over, and they went back to their children.

- Rosemonde, you didn’t dance? Asked Candy

- There’s no way I’m dancing with this boor!! Said Rosemonde crossing your hands and sulking

- And me with this frenchie! Said Richard

Candy and Terry burst out laughing. The scene was so funny. Is that how they were all those years ago? Oh if only they knew how ridiculous they were, they wouldn’t have argued like ragmen…

- You think it’s funny mum? It’s not funny at all! Said Rosemonde

- Yes it is! Said Candy laughing

- You two look so ridiculous, said Terry, Richard invite her to dance…

- And Rosemonde you say “yes” said Candy

Richard complied and took Rosemonde to the dance floor, who was not too sure about herself. When they stop arguing, they have a good time together, like the night he came and console her when her dad passed away…. Nina and Caroline were right; she couldn’t stop thinking about him.

Candy and Terry were looking at them; all that seemed so unreal.

- How are you? Terry finally asked her

- I'm fine, what about you?

- Fine… did Michael stay in France?

- Oh you don’t know…?

- What? Did something happen to him?

- He was exposed to toxic gas and radiation during the war when he was prisoner in the German army… the consequences showed up years later… in short, he died a few months ago…

- Oh my God! Candy I’m sorry… Michael was a good friend. I’m sorry I didn’t make peace with him…

- Thank you, and how’s Susanna?

- You don’t know either?

- What? Did something happen to her too?

- She died a year ago…

- I’m sorry…

- We’re both widowed…

- Apparently… don’t get too many ideas….it’s over between us, remember?

- Candy…

- I’m going to go see my friends, she said walking away, see you later…

She walked to her friends. Yes, they were both free, but he had chosen Susanna, and she was still hurt by that…

- Candy, said Annie, it’s Terry…

- Yes… said Candy, I know…

- What are you doing here? Said Patty, go stay with him…

- Why? Said Candy

- Why? Said Patty, he’s only the man you love with all your heart and he’s available and you too… you’ve got another chance, Candy, don’t let it pass…

- He chose Susanna, said Candy with a weary tone

- You’re still mad at him for that? Said Annie, go talk to him and get things straight, but Candy, I beg you, I know how much you love him still, and you’ll always love him and he’s free… free!

- His son is dancing with Rosemonde, said Patty, like mother, like daughter…

- Like father like son… said Annie laughing

- Oh stop it you two! Said Candy laughing

Terry on his end, had met the others, it was good to see his old school friends.

- It’s like a high school reunion of St. Paul, said Stear

- Like it was planned, said Archie

- Well we’ve got the party, there’s plenty of food and drinks and the music is there… I say, let’s have our little reunion! Said Terry

- Ok, said Archie

They called the other parents who were ancient students and they sat at a table in the same corner and they started to talk about the past and present. The May Festival was now a mini-high school reunion for St. Paul former students. Eliza approached Terry and tried to seduce him…

- Terrence, hello! She said with a soft voice

Terry turned around and he was surprised to see Eliza.

- Eliza Reagan? Said Terry with a mocking tone

- Yes. Terry, how are you?

- You mean after you ruin our reputation; mine and Candy’s?

- You’re not going to hold that against me after all those years… Said Eliza

- To hold something against you would mean that I feel something for you… Eliza, for me, you’re not even worth the dirt I step on…said Terry walking away

Eliza blushed and went to get something to drink. Candy who had followed the scene, couldn’t help laughing at Eliza

- Eliza, she said with a mocking tone, you still can’t get the attention of “your Terrence” twenty one years later?

- Shut up Candy! Said Eliza angry

- This time you can’t set a trap for us or tell on us to our spouses… we’re both free to be together finally, you can’t do anything against us… it’s over!

Eliza walked away fuming. Annie and Patricia who had heard what Candy had said, talked to her.

- Candy, said Annie, so you’re going to give Terry another chance?

- Yes, said Patty, you know you want it….

- Eliza gets on my nerves, I said that to annoy her, said Candy

- Candy, you never say anything you don’t think, said Annie

- Alright, but I have to talk to him first… said Candy

- Of course said Patty, that’s the least you could do, but please Candy, don’t let the opportunity to be happy with the one you love pass you by again!

Patty was of course talking about the Susanna matter; when Candy and Terry had sacrificed their happiness for Susanna, only to be unhappy separated. Candy knew that Annie and Patty were right, but… she had to talk to Terry first. She wanted to make him sweat for 5 minutes…

Rosemonde and Richard continued dancing together and they had a lot of fun. They realised that when they weren’t fighting they actually liked each other’s company…

The party continued with the children and their parents, who had their own little reunion… Terry of course wasn’t going to let Candy go so easily, he continued talking to her, and Candy was, of course making him sweat a little…he finally managed to get her alone on the side.

- You want to run to the pretend Pony hill? Asked Terry

- Ok, said Candy smiling

He took her hand and they ran to the pretend Pony hill, laughing and looking at each other tenderly. They were back 21 years before… they arrived on the hill and they fell on the grass, breathless and laughing out loud. They were lying on the grass.

I was walking along, on my little hill

The air was so nice that I stayed there resting

I lay down in the grass

To listen to the wind sing

To listen to the song of the grass…

- Terry, let’s go back to the party, said Candy

- I want to talk to you; I thought I would never see you again…

- Terry, please…stop…

- You’re a widow… you’re not married anymore…

- You’re not expecting me to just fall into your arms?

- Of course not, but…

- But what? You chose Susanna…

Richard had taken Rosemonde to the pretend Pony hill to talk calmly. The father and the son had the same idea. They saw their parents and heard them without showing themselves.

- You know why I chose Susanna, you left…said Terry

- Yes, but later, you had left her and Broadway… for a while… I thought you were going to come and get me to tell me you couldn’t live without me… I was waiting for you…

She was waiting for him! He came to see her and Albert… he cursed himself for the thousandth time for listening to Albert!!

- Oh my God Candy! I came…said Terry

- What? Asked Candy

- I came to Chicago, I saw you at the Happy Clinic with the children…

- At the Happy Clinic? But when? She asked stunned

- Before I went back to New York, to Susanna…

Richard and Rosemonde couldn’t believe their ears!

- Susanna? Whispered Rosemonde, who is that?

- My mother, said Richard coldly

- Oh…

Candy and Terry continued talking unaware that their children were listening to them.

- Before you went back to Susanna, you were in Chicago to see me? Why didn’t you talk to me?

- I met Albert in a bar of the area, he told me that I was going to open old wounds if I see you and talked to you… I saw you from a far so happy with the children… I was ashamed of my weakness…

- You saw me and you didn’t talk to me? You went back to Susanna and you married her? Oh Terry!!

- I should’ve talked to you, I regret it now… I don’t know why I listened to Albert…

- I went to the war, when I learned you got married…

- And you reunited with Michael… said Terry

- And I married him… if only you had talked to me…

- Candy, you know I married Susanna because of duty…

Richard couldn’t take it anymore! The bastard! He never loved his mother, because of “her”! He showed himself before Rosemonde could stop him.

- That’s “her”, the one mum was talking about all the time! It’s “her” that you love? It’s “her” who made mum unhappy!

- Richard! Said Terry surprised

- And now you’re not even ashamed, you want to take her back? You bloody bastard!

- Richard, said Rosemonde

- It’s your mother, the cause of my mum’s pain and sorrow! Your mother! Said Richard upset

- That’s ridiculous, Richard; you heard them, she was married to my father, said Rosemonde

- But my father never stopped loving her… he made my mother miserable! Said Richard

- Well it’s not her fault if your father is in love with her! Said Rosemonde

- Stop arguing! Said Terry, Richard, you come with me!

- No, I’m not going anywhere with you! Stay with the one you love! Yelled Richard running away from there

- Richard Terrence Grandchester! Come back here at one! Said Terry upset

Candy had become livid. She had no idea about the tension between father and son.

- Candy… said Terry looking at her

- Go after him Terry, I’ll see you later, said Candy

- Ok… I’ll see you later

Terry ran after his son to talk to him. Rosemonde stayed with her mother.

- Mum… said Rosemonde

- Rosemonde, it’s not what you think…

- If you were in love with Richard’s father and you still love him, then it’s what I think…

- Rosemonde….it’s complicated….

- You grown ups always say that when you don’t want to talk about something… mum, dad told you to be happy on his deathbed… if you still love Mr. Grandchester, go ahead…

- Are you sure you’re ok with that?

- If you’re happy mum, I’ll be happy too and he’s likeable and very handsome…. Plus, 20 something years later, that’s kind of romantic!

- But his son…

- He’ll get over it, don’t worry about it…

- Thanks honey… what were you two doing here? Oh… I’m sorry for ruining your intimate moment…

- Don’t worry about it, mum…now that he might become my stepbrother…it’s too weird…

They burst out laughing and they walked to the party together.



Chapter 19

“The May Festival… 21 years later…”

Rosemonde got used to the pain of the loss of her father. Life goes on. Her father was in a better place, and he wasn’t suffering anymore. He was happy and in peace. Her joy of life came back little by little. Life was too short to stay sad she said to herself and her father wouldn’t want her to mop around because of him, he would want her to be happy. Her friends were glad to find the pranky girl back. Despite their moment of closeness, the young boy with brown hair and her, were not in better terms. They continued bickering at every occasion! Caroline and Nina, talked to her about it.

- Rosemonde, I thought you like my brother, said Nina

- I do like your brother, why? Asked Rosemonde

- You seem to like your cute brown hair boy…said Caroline

- Are you kidding? I think he’s unbearable! He’s a lout! He’s arrogant, too sure of himself, pretentious, bossy!

- And he’s got eyes to die for! said Nina

- Rosemonde, there’s a thin line between love and hate… said Caroline

- You’ve got a thing for your cute brown hair boy with blue eyes… said Nina

- No, said Rosemonde

- Yes, said Caroline, and you’ve got good taste, he’s great…

- I thought you’ll be for your cousin, said Rosemonde

- My cousin is an idiot if he can’t see you… said Caroline

- He needs glasses, said Nina joking

- Caroline, Nina, stop it please, said Rosemonde thinking

But Rosemonde couldn’t stop thinking about those very blue eyes… Her heart was racing every time she saw him and it jumped every time she thought about him….

Candy continued to cruise around the world. The pain, she knew it wouldn’t go away, but it was seeking shelter in a part of the heart and stopped hurting. Michael… Life goes on. She had made him the promise to be happy and it’s not by being down in the dumps all day long that she’s going to be happy. The boat she was in, arrived in New York. She decided to get off and to go to Chicago to see her friends. They were very happy to see her.

- Candy! It’s so good to see you… how are you? Said Annie

- I’m fine… I’m ok… I’m better… said Candy

- That’s good, said Patricia, you’re back in America to stay?

- Yes, everything in France reminds me of Michael… I put the castle up for rent…

- And Rosemonde how is she? Asked Annie

- She’s better too; I talked to her on the phone in New York…said Candy

- Life goes on, said Patty…

- You want to buy a house here in Chicago?

- Maybe… I’m going to go to the Pony home. How’s Miss Pony?

- She’s fine, she’s just very old… she can’t take care of the children like before, said Annie

- She like the queen mother… said Candy

- Yes, Sister Maria is not that old, she can continue yelling at the children…said Patty

- I would’ve taken Sister Maria over the Mother Grey at St. Paul, anytime, said Candy

- Yes, you called her an old hag… said Patty

- And to apologise, I told her I was sorry to have called her an old hag, even if I really meant it! Said Candy laughing

- All that for my turtle, said Patty, Oh Candy I missed you so much!

- I missed you all too said Candy hugging them

They talked about good old time and they laughed out loud. Annie had two more children, a girl, Sherry and a boy Bobby and Patty had two more boys Stear Jr. and Ethan and one girl, Martha, after her crazy grandmother.

Candy went to the Pony Home to see her two mothers. Miss Pony was old. She spent her days sitting on a chair, looking at the children. The orphanage was now big and there were a lot of employees. Annie and Albert had made sure that all the members of the staff had a heart of gold. Sister Maria was older, she was now responsible for the Pony Home.

- Candy, honey, said Sister Maria, how are you?

- I’m fine, thank you. I’m hanging in there… how are my dear brothers; Tom and Jimmy?

- Tom is fine, Candice-Marie is now a very beautiful young girl… she has two brothers, Tommy and Steve

- I know, I was corresponding with him… and he sent me pictures…

- Jimmy is now taking care of the Cartwright farm ever since his father passed away, even before that

- How’s Miss Pony?

- She’s fine, she’s there. But she’s not doing anything, she’s too tired

- Can I see her? Where is she?

- She’s in the living room

Candy got in and she saw her mother on a rocking chair reading a book. Her face was wrinkled, but it was still smiling and warm. Sister Maria approached Miss Pony and told her…

- Miss Pony, we have a visitor….Said Sister Maria

- Who? Asked Miss Pony with a shaky voice

- Me, said Candy, it’s me Candy, Miss Pony

- Candy? Oh my God! Said Miss Pony

Candy approached her and she hugged her.

- Candy, you lost your husband, how are you?

- I’m fine thank you…

- How’s Rosemonde?

- She’s fine, she’s in college, St. Paul…

- Like you…that’s good

Candy, didn’t stay for a long time, so she didn’t want get her too tired. She then went to the Cartwright farm to see Jimmy.

- Boss! Said Jimmy hugging her

- Jimmy! Oh, it’s so good to see you!

- You too… how are you?

- I’m fine… I’m hanging in there…

- Come and meet my wife…

He introduced her to his wife Dora and his 4 kids! There names were; James, Jeremy, Jeanny and Dorina. She spent some time with them and then she went to see Tom and his family.

- Candy, my poor little sister! I wanted to come and visit you in France, Said Tom

- Thank you Tom, she said hugging him, where’s your daughter?

- Candice-Marie? Called Tom

- Yes daddy! Said a very pretty young girl with brown hair and blue eyes

- Come and say hello to Candy, said Tom

- Aunty Candy? Oh…

She ran and jumped to her neck.

- How’s France? Paris, fashion? How are you?

- Great, I’ll take you there one day if you want to, I’m fine… I brought you some clothes said Candy giving her a bag…

- Really? Thank you aunty Candy! She said hugging her, what a nice surprise! When are you going back to France? You really can take me there?

- Yes… But I’m going to stay in Chicago for a while…

- Oh… but tell me if you’re going to France… come on let’s go and talk…How have you been holding up since your husband died?

She took her in the house where she saw, Tom’s wife and the other two children. She spent some time with them and she went back to Chicago in the evening.

She found the men who where at work when she arrived in the morning, home; they screamed and laughed, kissed each other, with tears of joy.

- I missed you all so much! I’m back for good, for now at least… said Candy

- Great! Said Stear

- You want to stay here? Asked Albert

- I want to buy a little house….

- Oh but Candy, you’re welcome here, you know that…

- I know, thank you, said Candy

- Welcome back Candy, said Neil

Candy brought a little house and she spent her time volunteering in charity centres. She was working 2 days a week at St. Joan’s hospital. She even found some of her colleagues, among them Flammy who had come back from France after the war. She was married and she had a little boy.

- I’m sorry for Michael Candy, she said, he was a good man. I worked with him in moving hospitals…

- Thanks Flammy… said Candy with tears in her eyes

Time passed and it was spring again, the time for the May Festival. Candy remembered how much she wanted the great uncle William to come to the May Festival. Her daughter was born in May, the same day as her. She will go to England for the May Festival. She wrote her daughter to tell her the good news. This last one was crazed with joy. Her mother was coming… Candy’s friends decided to go to London too; they were going to make the trip as a group to their old school.

In the end, everybody was in London, everybody didn’t take the same boat, meaning Eliza, but everybody found themselves in the school yard. The memories came back and they were all smiling, and talking. The students were happy to see their parents.

- Mum!! Said Rosemonde running to her and jumping to her neck

- Oh baby, how are you?

- I’m fine, what about you?

- I miss you, honey…

- I missed you too, mum…I’m happy you came…

- Me too… it’s reminding me so much memories… said Candy smiling

- You told me… it must’ve been funny to disguise yourself as a boy; Romeo, then as Juliet…

- Yes. Sister Margaret is now the reverend mother, she was much nicer than Mother Grey …

Candy went to her daughter’s room with her.

- So, did you manage to get Anthony’s attention?

- Mum…no… I think he sees me like a little sister like Nina or a cousin like Caroline…

- I’m sorry honey….

- Oh, it’s ok… I’m still young…

- Do you have any other suitor?

- Yes…No…I don’t know…

- You don’t know?

- We keep arguing and he gets on my nerves…

Candy didn’t respond. She was back years earlier when she had just arrived in college…

- Mum? Mum?!! You’re daydreaming?

- Oh…I’m sorry. Get dressed; you’re one of the May girls…

- I like your costume mum, it’s very nice…

- Yours is nice too, it’s a costume party…

The May Festival was fun; there was music, a play, dances, a parade, and finally the party, with a lot of food and drinks. There were a lot of people; they were all dressed in costume from the Romeo and Juliet theme, the parents included. Candy was with Rosemonde getting something to drink, when they heard;

- Here’s the little French girl! Your French accent doesn’t seem to want to disappear… where’s your blond dandy?

Candy turned around and she had the impression of having a vision… but, it was impossible!

- Richard! Said the voice of a man, be more polite with the young…

He stopped when he saw the daughter but really went he saw the mother. Oh but…

- Freckles? Candy? Hello…

Candy was looking and she saw a Terry more mature and very attractive. He still had his long hair. She never thought she would see him again in St. Paul College. Her eyes drowned in Terry’s blue eyes. Oh… she was falling in love with him all over again…all over again? She’s always been in love with him!

- Terry! Oh…Hello…

Terry was looking at the queen of his thoughts and didn’t seem to realise that she was in front of him, after dreaming about it for years; she was even more beautiful than in his memory, more mature, her long blond hair and wavy were falling on her shoulders. She looked more like Rosemonde’s sister than her mother…

The two teens were looking at them surprised. Their parents knew each other? And they seemed mesmerised by one another! What was going on?

- Mum, you know the father of this lout? Asked Rosemonde

- Dad, you know the mother of this little French girl with no manners?

- Who are you calling no manners? You gentleman in shorts! Said Rosemonde

- Gentleman in shorts? Did you find that on your own? Said Richard with a mocking tone

- Terry, this is my daughter, Rosemonde, said Candy

- Pleased to meet you… said Terry kissing her hand

- Sir… said Rosemonde stunned

- And this young man so charming, is my son , Richard, said Terry

- Please to meet you, said Candy…

- Madam, said Richard kissing her hand

- Rosemonde, your British accent has improved a lot, should I thank this young man here? said Candy ironically

- Mum! Said Rosemonde

- Of course, without me she would still be rolling her “R”s and would be saying “Ze” instead of “The”…said Richard

- I was speaking English before I met you, you little pretentious! Said Rosemonde

- I don’t know what language you spoke, but it wasn’t Shakespeare’s language… said Richard laughing

- How dare you…! Said Rosemonde

They continued arguing, but their parents weren’t listening anymore, they were looking at each other… they didn’t think they would see each other again… they both thought they were dreaming… then, they realised that their children were still exchanging words. They were both back years earlier…

- Richard! That’s enough, said Terry

- Rosemonde, said Candy, stop it!

- But mum…said Rosemonde

- But dad…said Richard

- That’s enough! Said Candy, it’s party time and you keep arguing, you have to have fun, you’re young only once in your life…

- That’s true, have fun instead of arguing… I can tell you Richard that the time I time I spent here, in St. Paul, is the one of the best time of my life… said Terry

- Me too, said Candy, I have one of my most beautiful memories of school here and in Scotland…

- Yes, Scotland, said Terry looking at her tenderly

The two teens were looking at them astonished… what the heck was that?

- Did we miss something? said Richard

- Apparently…Mum do you have something to tell me?

- Yes, dad, did I miss something, or what? Said Richard

Candy and Terry looked at each other; it was déjà vu, all over again!

- Why don’t you two go and dance, said Candy, we’re going to talk later…

- Yes later, said Terry

The waltz that was starting was “Anthony’s”… Terry remembered; he got angry…but now that he thought about it, he thought it was so ridiculous…

- Princess Juliet, may I have this dance? Said Terry

- Are you sure? Said Candy hesitating

- And certain… he said winking at her

- Then, I’d be delighted, Prince Romeo… she said like in a dream

Terry held her close and they danced to the end of the music this time. Their children were looking at them still stunned.

Annie and Patty saw them from afar.

- Candy is dancing with Terry? Said Annie

- Yes, he’s the one for her… he lost is wife too, they could finally have a chance to be together and happy…

- He lost his wife? When?

- About a year ago… I heard some ladies talking over there… they thought Terry was cute… Candy can finally be with Terry if she wants to…

- From your mouth to God’s ears Patty, from your mouth to God’s ear!

Eliza was looking at the scene, Candy and Terry dancing.

“Twenty years later, she’s still the only one he sees! But he’s even more handsome than in my memory and so attractive… she said to herself, why was I such a pain? Oh Terry, I still love you so much…”

She decided she was going to try and seduce him. She has been a divorcee for a few years, her husband had left her… and as a male companion, Terry would fit the profile perfectly… He was still the future duke of Grandchester…

Candy was on cloud nine. This meeting by chance was for her a very beautiful thing. With all the memories coming to her, he was the missing piece, and he was there. They were both smiling during the few minutes the dance lasted.

- Your daughter is your splitting image, said Terry

- Your son looks a lot like you too, said Candy

- He’s getting on her nerves…

- No, she likes him…

- You think so?

- Yes, when Rosemonde is angry, she speaks French… and she’s speaking English, and a very good English, I might add with your son… she likes him…

- He likes her too… it was like watching a movie of the two of us 21 years ago…

- No kidding…

The music was over, and they went back to their children.

- Rosemonde, you didn’t dance? Asked Candy

- There’s no way I’m dancing with this boor!! Said Rosemonde crossing your hands and sulking

- And me with this frenchie! Said Richard

Candy and Terry burst out laughing. The scene was so funny. Is that how they were all those years ago? Oh if only they knew how ridiculous they were, they wouldn’t have argued like ragmen…

- You think it’s funny mum? It’s not funny at all! Said Rosemonde

- Yes it is! Said Candy laughing

- You two look so ridiculous, said Terry, Richard invite her to dance…

- And Rosemonde you say “yes” said Candy

Richard complied and took Rosemonde to the dance floor, who was not too sure about herself. When they stop arguing, they have a good time together, like the night he came and console her when her dad passed away…. Nina and Caroline were right; she couldn’t stop thinking about him.

Candy and Terry were looking at them; all that seemed so unreal.

- How are you? Terry finally asked her

- I'm fine, what about you?

- Fine… did Michael stay in France?

- Oh you don’t know…?

- What? Did something happen to him?

- He was exposed to toxic gas and radiation during the war when he was prisoner in the German army… the consequences showed up years later… in short, he died a few months ago…

- Oh my God! Candy I’m sorry… Michael was a good friend. I’m sorry I didn’t make peace with him…

- Thank you, and how’s Susanna?

- You don’t know either?

- What? Did something happen to her too?

- She died a year ago…

- I’m sorry…

- We’re both widowed…

- Apparently… don’t get too many ideas….it’s over between us, remember?

- Candy…

- I’m going to go see my friends, she said walking away, see you later…

She walked to her friends. Yes, they were both free, but he had chosen Susanna, and she was still hurt by that…

- Candy, said Annie, it’s Terry…

- Yes… said Candy, I know…

- What are you doing here? Said Patty, go stay with him…

- Why? Said Candy

- Why? Said Patty, he’s only the man you love with all your heart and he’s available and you too… you’ve got another chance, Candy, don’t let it pass…

- He chose Susanna, said Candy with a weary tone

- You’re still mad at him for that? Said Annie, go talk to him and get things straight, but Candy, I beg you, I know how much you love him still, and you’ll always love him and he’s free… free!

- His son is dancing with Rosemonde, said Patty, like mother, like daughter…

- Like father like son… said Annie laughing

- Oh stop it you two! Said Candy laughing

Terry on his end, had met the others, it was good to see his old school friends.

- It’s like a high school reunion of St. Paul, said Stear

- Like it was planned, said Archie

- Well we’ve got the party, there’s plenty of food and drinks and the music is there… I say, let’s have our little reunion! Said Terry

- Ok, said Archie

They called the other parents who were ancient students and they sat at a table in the same corner and they started to talk about the past and present. The May Festival was now a mini-high school reunion for St. Paul former students. Eliza approached Terry and tried to seduce him…

- Terrence, hello! She said with a soft voice

Terry turned around and he was surprised to see Eliza.

- Eliza Reagan? Said Terry with a mocking tone

- Yes. Terry, how are you?

- You mean after you ruin our reputation; mine and Candy’s?

- You’re not going to hold that against me after all those years… Said Eliza

- To hold something against you would mean that I feel something for you… Eliza, for me, you’re not even worth the dirt I step on…said Terry walking away

Eliza blushed and went to get something to drink. Candy who had followed the scene, couldn’t help laughing at Eliza

- Eliza, she said with a mocking tone, you still can’t get the attention of “your Terrence” twenty one years later?

- Shut up Candy! Said Eliza angry

- This time you can’t set a trap for us or tell on us to our spouses… we’re both free to be together finally, you can’t do anything against us… it’s over!

Eliza walked away fuming. Annie and Patricia who had heard what Candy had said, talked to her.

- Candy, said Annie, so you’re going to give Terry another chance?

- Yes, said Patty, you know you want it….

- Eliza gets on my nerves, I said that to annoy her, said Candy

- Candy, you never say anything you don’t think, said Annie

- Alright, but I have to talk to him first… said Candy

- Of course said Patty, that’s the least you could do, but please Candy, don’t let the opportunity to be happy with the one you love pass you by again!

Patty was of course talking about the Susanna matter; when Candy and Terry had sacrificed their happiness for Susanna, only to be unhappy separated. Candy knew that Annie and Patty were right, but… she had to talk to Terry first. She wanted to make him sweat for 5 minutes…

Rosemonde and Richard continued dancing together and they had a lot of fun. They realised that when they weren’t fighting they actually liked each other’s company…

The party continued with the children and their parents, who had their own little reunion… Terry of course wasn’t going to let Candy go so easily, he continued talking to her, and Candy was, of course making him sweat a little…he finally managed to get her alone on the side.

- You want to run to the pretend Pony hill? Asked Terry

- Ok, said Candy smiling

He took her hand and they ran to the pretend Pony hill, laughing and looking at each other tenderly. They were back 21 years before… they arrived on the hill and they fell on the grass, breathless and laughing out loud. They were lying on the grass.

I was walking along, on my little hill

The air was so nice that I stayed there resting

I lay down in the grass

To listen to the wind sing

To listen to the song of the grass…

- Terry, let’s go back to the party, said Candy

- I want to talk to you; I thought I would never see you again…

- Terry, please…stop…

- You’re a widow… you’re not married anymore…

- You’re not expecting me to just fall into your arms?

- Of course not, but…

- But what? You chose Susanna…

Richard had taken Rosemonde to the pretend Pony hill to talk calmly. The father and the son had the same idea. They saw their parents and heard them without showing themselves.

- You know why I chose Susanna, you left…said Terry

- Yes, but later, you had left her and Broadway… for a while… I thought you were going to come and get me to tell me you couldn’t live without me… I was waiting for you…

She was waiting for him! He came to see her and Albert… he cursed himself for the thousandth time for listening to Albert!!

- Oh my God Candy! I came…said Terry

- What? Asked Candy

- I came to Chicago, I saw you at the Happy Clinic with the children…

- At the Happy Clinic? But when? She asked stunned

- Before I went back to New York, to Susanna…

Richard and Rosemonde couldn’t believe their ears!

- Susanna? Whispered Rosemonde, who is that?

- My mother, said Richard coldly

- Oh…

Candy and Terry continued talking unaware that their children were listening to them.

- Before you went back to Susanna, you were in Chicago to see me? Why didn’t you talk to me?

- I met Albert in a bar of the area, he told me that I was going to open old wounds if I see you and talked to you… I saw you from a far so happy with the children… I was ashamed of my weakness…

- You saw me and you didn’t talk to me? You went back to Susanna and you married her? Oh Terry!!

- I should’ve talked to you, I regret it now… I don’t know why I listened to Albert…

- I went to the war, when I learned you got married…

- And you reunited with Michael… said Terry

- And I married him… if only you had talked to me…

- Candy, you know I married Susanna because of duty…

Richard couldn’t take it anymore! The bastard! He never loved his mother, because of “her”! He showed himself before Rosemonde could stop him.

- That’s “her”, the one mum was talking about all the time! It’s “her” that you love? It’s “her” who made mum unhappy!

- Richard! Said Terry surprised

- And now you’re not even ashamed, you want to take her back? You bloody bastard!

- Richard, said Rosemonde

- It’s your mother, the cause of my mum’s pain and sorrow! Your mother! Said Richard upset

- That’s ridiculous, Richard; you heard them, she was married to my father, said Rosemonde

- But my father never stopped loving her… he made my mother miserable! Said Richard

- Well it’s not her fault if your father is in love with her! Said Rosemonde

- Stop arguing! Said Terry, Richard, you come with me!

- No, I’m not going anywhere with you! Stay with the one you love! Yelled Richard running away from there

- Richard Terrence Grandchester! Come back here at one! Said Terry upset

Candy had become livid. She had no idea about the tension between father and son.

- Candy… said Terry looking at her

- Go after him Terry, I’ll see you later, said Candy

- Ok… I’ll see you later

Terry ran after his son to talk to him. Rosemonde stayed with her mother.

- Mum… said Rosemonde

- Rosemonde, it’s not what you think…

- If you were in love with Richard’s father and you still love him, then it’s what I think…

- Rosemonde….it’s complicated….

- You grown ups always say that when you don’t want to talk about something… mum, dad told you to be happy on his deathbed… if you still love Mr. Grandchester, go ahead…

- Are you sure you’re ok with that?

- If you’re happy mum, I’ll be happy too and he’s likeable and very handsome…. Plus, 20 something years later, that’s kind of romantic!

- But his son…

- He’ll get over it, don’t worry about it…

- Thanks honey… what were you two doing here? Oh… I’m sorry for ruining your intimate moment…

- Don’t worry about it, mum…now that he might become my stepbrother…it’s too weird…

They burst out laughing and they walked to the party together.

IT’S OVER…

Chapter 20
“If only we’d talked…”

Richard Terrence Grandchester ran inside the donjon, where Candy was held after Eliza’s trap. Terry had followed him and he was invaded by memories… all that time he spent outside talking to her inside through those thick walls. The donjon wasn’t use as a punishment place anymore. The door was opened, Terry got inside, it was dark and cold.

“My God, my poor Candy spent days here, in this cold, dark and dirty place…”

- Richard? Are you there? He called

No answer. He continued walking calling his son’s name. It was getting dark outside and the donjon was getting also darker. The college was renovating the donjon into a library. Terry found his son behind a wall half painted and was sitting on some stairs.

- Richard… said Terry, you could’ve at least answered me…

- You never loved her… you’re regretting that I was born…

- NO!! Don’t ever say that! You’re the only positive thing that came out of all this fiasco!

- Fiasco?

- Listen Richard, I could lie to you and tell you that I loved your mother…but… I’m going to tell you what happened…

Terry told his son his whole story; his meeting with Candy on the boat, the college, Scotland, the trap, the separation, their reunion, their plans, the accident, the separation, his trip in alcohol hell, his visit to Chicago and how went back to Susanna to marry her. He also told him about what happened at the war, how he was hurt to find the woman he loved married to his new best friend…and their new reunion a few hours ago which he witnessed. His son had listened and he understood his parents’ situation better. His father and his mother were unhappy because of duty and obligations! My God! His father must have suffered as much as his mother…

- But why didn’t you separate? You were both miserable in that marriage….your arrangement and your devotion to it was …stupid! Dad, why didn’t you tell me anything? I hated you 3 z for all those years because mum was miserable… I never thought for one second that you were miserable too… to live all those years without the one you loved…

- You were there, and we didn’t want to divorce because of you…we didn’t want to tear up the house

- And a house without parents in love with each other you think was better? Dad, when I went at Sam’s and I saw how Uncle Charlie was with Aunt Sandra, I was wondering why you and mum weren’t like them….

- We didn’t want to traumatise you with a separation; me having you every other week end… neither your mother nor I wanted leave you…

- But you were miserable! Oh my God, dad! You look more like grandpa than you care to admit! He left grandma to fulfil his duty!

- In the beginning you were too young to understand and then you knew what was happening; that I didn’t love your mother, and blamed me…

- Dad, you had plans; to marry the girl you loved… how could you have let her go without a fight?

- A fight?

- Yes, you should’ve stood up to grandma Marlowe, and not comply to her demands… you would’ve avoided a lot of heartaches, yours, mum, Rosemonde’s mum…

- I was alone, I had no body to advise me, or defend me like Susanna had her mother… I was a teen… and Candy did the only thing she thought was possible to help me choose; she removed herself from the equation; because she had nobody to advise her either… if we had thought more about the two of us… but were thinking about Susanna… but you wouldn’t have been born and I think it was worth it just for you Richard…

- Oh dad! If you hadn’t married mum, I would be Mrs. Durand’s son and Rosemonde would’ve been my sister…Whoa! Weird! You’re right, I’m happy to have been born, because I can’t stop thinking about Rosemonde…

Terry smiled; life was repeating itself… his son was in love with Candy’s daughter. He felt relieved to have been able to tell his son the truth. That had been the dark cloud of their relationship and why he’d rather be in college in England.

- She’s “The Queen of your thoughts”? Asked Richard

- “The Queen of my thoughts”?

- Yes… I saw your manuscript one day in your apartment, then the book you published under Tony George Gorman…

- Well, so much for me being anonymous….

- It was for “her” wasn’t it? I would’ve never known if I hadn’t seen the manuscript… all that passion, all that love… I was wondering where it came from, dad…you were so cold with mum… now I know…

- I wanted her not to forget that I loved her… I don’t even know if she read the book… I was praying she’d read it one day…

- You’ve published your most intimate thoughts, just to send her a message that you loved her? Wow! I’m sorry for disrespecting you, dad. Maybe it’s because I’m in love with Rosemonde, I understand you better…

- Let’s forget about it Richard…

- I laughed at her freckles the first time I saw her…

Terry felt like déjà vu…

- And she got angry, said Terry smiling

“The sun had given you the cutest gift, by putting freckles on your pretty nose…” recited father and son at the same time…

- Oh my God, said Richard, those lines you wrote them for her mother… you laughed at her freckles too?

- I even call her Freckles…

- Yes, that’s how you called her when you saw her earlier…

- Looks like you’re following my footsteps…

- Yes, it looks like it indeed, said Richard hugging his dad

- Let’s go see our beloved ladies…

- Ok…

Meanwhile, Candy and Rosemonde were walking to the party but they came back on their steps to the pretend Pony hill, they climbed the tree together and they were sitting on a big branch. Rosemonde was surprise to see her mother climb the tree so easily!

- Mum, I didn’t know you could climb trees so well!

- Rosemonde, I was a real tomboy! Your aunt Annie was always afraid when I climbed too far, she was having panic attacks!

- Well, I’m learning new things about you today… that you climb tries better than me, that you’re the love of Mr. Grandchester’s life…

- Honey, I didn’t think I would see him again and here…

- But you do still love him? Don’t you?

- That doesn’t mean I didn’t love your father…

- I know you loved him, mum; I saw you two together… but tell me what happen with Richard’s father, why didn’t you get married? I’ve only heard bit and pieces of your story…

- I never thought I would tell you this story one day… but life has decided differently… it put Terry back on my way…

Candy told her daughter all her life story, since the Pony Home, the Reagan’s, Anthony, Terry, Susanna, absolutely everything! Rosemonde listened, fascinated by her mother’s story. She had no idea her mother had been so unhappy in the past. But like Richard, she thought the sacrifice for Susanna was useless and futile.

- Mum, what the heck possess you to leave the man you loved to another woman?

- I was thinking about Susanna…

- You also saved her life, didn’t you deserve for her to give you back the love of your life? Mum “Charity begins at home!” You didn’t have to be the saint; it was your happiness… now you lived 20 years without the man you loved! Uncle Albert didn’t make things easier by stopping Mr. Grandchester from talking to you…

- He thought he was doing it for my own good, said Candy to defend him

- Yeah right! He was probably in love with you…. Because I don’t see why he would’ve stopped the man you loved with all your heart from speaking to you. He knew you were waiting for him, didn’t he?

- Rosemonde!

- But you went to war, when you learned that the man you loved got married and you found dad again… I bet you anything that Uncle Albert didn’t anticipate that!

- You do know that if I had married Terry, you would be Richard’s sister?

- Yes, but at least he would’ve grown up in a house with two parents in love…I was luckier than him, you loved daddy…

- Do you love Richard?

- I don’t know mum. I can’t stop thinking about him, but every time we see each other, we argue… but he was so nice to me when daddy died… he told me that he’d lost his mother a year ago…

Candy smiled, she knew what her daughter was talking about; that’s how it was in the beginning, when she had just met Terry and she thought he was a lout, but the next second, he was nice to her.

- I know how you feel, said Candy, I thought Terry was unbearable in the beginning and he became the love of my life…

- So, we’re going to be the second generation… we’re going to succeed where you failed…maybe…well I don’t know if Richard…

- I can assure you that Richard Terrence Grandchester is in love with you, said Candy and I know the men of the Grandchester family!

They burst out laughing. Terry and his son were passing by, looking for their beloved. They heard the laughs on top of the tree and they looked up and they saw the mother and daughter laughing, sitting on a branch.

- Candy? Said Terry smiling, you haven’t stopped your habit of climbing trees yet?

- We’re back in college, so old habits come back! She said laughing, wait, I’m coming down!

She tried coming down, but she missed a branch, she screamed and she would’ve fallen if Terry hadn’t caught her in his arms.

- Thank you Terry, she said softly looking him in the eyes

- The pleasure was all mine, Mrs. Tarzan!

They burst out laughing together. Rosemonde came down from the tree also and went to stand near Richard; they were looking at their parents…you could finger their chemistry.

- Richard, said Rosemonde, let’s go, they have to catch up…Come on!

They quietly left their parents, leaving them alone. They went back to the party and they were talking on their way there.

- Your mother told you their story? Asked Richard

- Yes, and your father told you what had happened?

- Yes…if I understand correctly, we were almost brother and sister…

- I suppose there’s a reason for everything, if those two get married…

- “If”? Said Richard, did you hear the same story I have? If it were up to those two, they would be married yesterday! They’re getting married; you can take that to the bank!

- So we’re still going to become brother and sister then…? She said sadly

He felt her sad tone and he stopped walking and he held her arm.

- Rosemonde, we have no blood relation, fortunately because… I can’t stop thinking about you, I don’t want to do like our parents, let’s not let circumstances separate us… I love you Rosemonde

Rosemonde was speechless. All that time they spent arguing, he liked her, he loved her! Caroline and Nina were right; she was in love with Richard!

- I love you too, Richard…

He leaned to kiss her lightly on the lips. Rosemonde felt a little warmth on her lips, her eyes were closed. She opened her eyes, Richard’s face was getting away from her, she put her arms around his neck and put her lips on his…he put his arms around her waist and kissed her back. They stopped for a few seconds.

Because I'm crazy for you
Touch me once and you'll know it's true
I never wanted anyone like this
It's all brand new, you'll feel it in my kiss
I'm crazy for you, crazy for you…

- Well, you’re a real frenchie…that French kiss was really good, said Richard with a sensual voice

- Really? You’re the first one I try it on … said Rosemonde

- And the last one, I hope…

- And the last one, she said smiling

Richard took her lips and they continued French kissing…Anthony Cornwell was passing by and he saw them for afar and he felt a pain in his heart. Caroline and Nina saw him and they followed his eyes.

- Oh my God, said Nina, she’s finally with him! I told her she liked him!

- I wish I was in her place, getting kissed by a boy like that…said Caroline

- But…since when? Said Anthony surprised and hurt

- Anthony, said Caroline, Rosemonde did everything to get your attention, you weren’t even seeing her… you thought of her like a little sister or a cousin

- But… she had a thing for me? Nina, why didn’t you tell me anything? Said Anthony

- Rosemonde would’ve killed me if I did, and I think you’re old enough to take care of your own love life… said Nina

- What does she see in that snotty nosed British?

- Well he’s kind of handsome, said Caroline laughing

- And those very blue eyes, said Nina

- Enough! Traitors! said Anthony with anger

Caroline and Nina burst out laughing, they were happy for their friend. Rosemonde and Richard went to dance some more, smiling at each other and looking at each other with love. Elizabeth Preston was looking at them with mean and jealous eyes.

Meanwhile, Terry and Mrs. Tarzan were talking.

- I can’t believe you came to Chicago and you left without talking to me… wasn’t it the reason you came? Asked Candy

- To see you so happy from afar…, said Terry

- Happy? Terry, I was with children, I was a nurse, of course I was smiling, it was part of the job description! I was smiling with everybody so I wouldn’t worry them… I was dying without you Terry!

- Seeing you gave me courage to go back to Susanna and fulfill my duty…if only I’d known…

- How could you have not known?

- You left without turning back…

- And you let me go kind of easily…

- I didn’t want to let go of you Candy, believe me, I wanted to keep you with me… you went to Susanna’s room announcing me that you’re going back to Chicago, to Albert!

- I had to say something to discourage you… you really think I wanted to leave you? She said with tears in her eyes, you can’t imagine how much I was happy to go to New York; I was finally going to be with you… but what I found… you didn’t tell me anything about Susanna’s accident. You even let me do the remark that I was happy she wasn’t playing “Juliet”, that I would’ve been a little jealous!

- I know forgive me. I was listening to you talk about Susanna and I was tortured; her mother was pressuring me to marry her… I sent you the one way ticket, because I wanted to keep you with me, I wanted to marry you, I never wanted to let you go again… Candy, I wished so much that things were different…

- Terry we were kids, barely older than Richard and Rosemonde, I don’t see them make such a big decision without our guidance, our support or our advice… We had no one and Mrs. Marlowe was there for her daughter… and she took advantage of the situation. You were only a child, me too and she knew it… We didn’t even have our friends to support us and give us their point of view… and with all the emotions and the guilt, the duty the obligation, not the mention the high tension… Now as an adult, I analyse the situation and I realize that we took the wrong decision… we were pressured by Mrs. Marlowe… I went to the hospital when I heard the rumours that Susanna wanted to force you to marry her, to tell her it was blackmail, that I loved you and I wouldn’t let her take you away from me… but when I got there she was on the verge of suicide…I realised she had lost her leg and that she loved you so much… I couldn’t tell her that I didn’t want to leave you because I was going to die without you…

- It wasn’t fair! After everything we had been through, we had the right to our happiness… our reunion… I wanted so much to take you in my arms and kiss you… but

- I could feel that something was bothering you, but I didn’t know what…

- I’m sorry for letting you go…

- I’m sorry for leaving so quickly, without discussing with you first… if I had stayed one more minute, I would’ve been incapable of leaving she said with tears coming down her cheeks…

- That wouldn’t have been so bad… for us…

- No kidding…hein?

They were sitting on the pretend Pony hill like in the old days, the hill were they liked to see each other.

- To learn that you got married hurt me deep down inside; life was not fair! We didn’t hurt people, I was wondering why I was punished like that. It was like they took my heart and cut it into a millions peaces and that I was feeling every cut of the knife…

- I’m sorry Candy… that’s why you went to war… it was my fault…

- I needed a change, to get away from everything, keep my mind occupied with more noble cause, instead of feeling sorry for myself. I reunite with Michael, and I hanged on to him like a life buoy… I had to live Terry; otherwise I was going to go crazy. Michael came back into my life at right time and I was happy, even after I saw you again… then you saved me… your voice brought me back to life, I was going Terry, I was following Anthony, I didn’t want to live in a world where I wasn’t with you….

- I couldn’t let you die, Candy, otherwise I would’ve died too…you’re a part of me…

- After that, the forced kiss at the German frontier… I didn’t want to talk about it, Terry because were both married to other people… the conversation would’ve taken us nowhere… now I can tell you that after that kiss, nothing was the same for me. I had a taste during those few seconds that kiss lasted, of what I was missing by not being with you…

- Me too… I’m ashamed of saying it, I was using Susanna as your substitute, I was seeing your face when I was with her, I was even calling out your name…

- Oh my God! Said Candy outraged

- And the worst part, was, that she didn’t care, she’d rather have me calling her “Candy” than not have me at all. After the kiss, I couldn’t continue….

- You mean…?

- Yes… and I have a son because of you too…

- At least one good thing came out of this whole fiasco, our children… oh my God!

- I saw you the day you were going back to France with Michael…

- I know…

- You saw me…?

- No, I felt your presence…

- You felt my presence…?

- Yes… but I didn’t want to look for you even with my eyes, because of Michael…

- Wow… I’m speechless…I went to Charlie’s and I saw you from afar your belly was bigger…I told you goodbye in my heart and I left…

- I did the same thing on the deck of the boat. Oh Terry, I couldn’t stay in America anymore, Eliza ruined my reputation…

- And mine…

- I wanted to wait to have Rosemonde, but we had to leave America to be in peace… Michael became ill not too long after that… he was sick for years, but at least he saw Rosemonde grow up…

- Susanna died about a year ago now… after a long illness too.

- Michael gave me a book as a gift before his death, a collection of poems, “The Queen of my thoughts” by Tony Georges Gorman… you know it…?

Terry didn’t answer.

- While you were calling me to come back, at the war, when I was dying… one of the nicknames you used was “the Queen of my thoughts”… and all those poems, I recognised them, they talk about us, Terry… Tony Georges Gorman; TGG, the same initials as you… and the dedication…it was you, wasn’t it?

- It was my message for you, to tell you that I still loved you, since I couldn’t speak to you; I published the book…Candy, Michael…knew I was calling the one I loved “the Queen of my thoughts”…

- You think he gave me that book as some kind of blessing that I could now be with you?

- It’s a possibility… maybe he wanted you to be happy after him…

- He made me promise to be happy… Oh my God!

- It’s not too late, Candy, look at me…

He took a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped the tears that were coming down her cheeks.

- Candy, life is giving us a second chance; let’s not waste it…

- Terry, are you sure? This time we’re not deluding ourselves?

- Candy, this time it’s real. We’re on the pretend Pony hill at the tree were we were falling in love more and more every day… 21 years later… this is where everything can start over, if you want to Candy… what we sacrifice 20 years ago, we can have it now… my darling, it’s not too late. I love you Candy…

- I love you Terry… Oh my God, I’ve wanted to tell you that for 21 years… I yelled it when I got to the harbour and I saw the boat living… when I followed you

- The boat? At Southampton? That was you? I thought I was dreaming… you followed me?…oh my God!

- Yes and I missed you, I didn’t want to stay in college without you. You left without saying goodbye…

- I’m sorry Candy, it was one of the conditions, you would’ve been freed from your punishment and authorised to stay in college only if I left the premises right away… I didn’t know what to do; I even went to my father for help…

- Thank you Terry… and then, I missed you at the Pony Home…

- At the Pony Home?

- Yes, the cup of tea you drank was still warm and the snow hadn’t covered the traces of your footsteps yet on the Pony hill…

- We could’ve seen each other and I would’ve taken you with me, and everything would’ve been different…oh my darling! All that lost time!

- I love you, Terrence Graham Grandchester…

- I love you, Candice White Andrew Durand…

- Countess of Montour

- Countess of Montour…

They burst out laughing and their lips were welded in a deep long and passionate kiss. He held her against him to make sure that he wasn’t dreaming, this time, that he really had the Queen of his thoughts in his arms for good. They stopped, breathless… after a very long moment.

- Candy, will you marry me?

- Oh yes, Terry, I’ll marry you!

He kissed her again and again and again, they couldn’t stop!

- We have to go back to the party, our children are going to be looking for us, said Candy softly

- Yes or I won’t be responsible of my actions he said in a breath

Candy burst out laughing. She was so happy; she was feeling like the young girl that was going to New York at the premiere of “Romeo and Juliet”, with her one way ticket to go be with the man she loved for good… They were walking holding each other, to the party. They saw their children from afar kissing…

- Your son is kissing my daughter, said Candy

- And your daughter is less prude than you… I bet she didn’t slap him…

- I’m sorry for the slap…that kiss became one of the most beautiful memories of you Terry, she said with a little voice, I wished I could’ve kissed you more…like she’s doing…

- I’m sorry for slapping you too, my love…you were just so beautiful…and I loved you so much…

- I didn’t believe you then, but I believe you now. It’s kind of weird to see my daughter that passionate with your son!

- If they love each other as much as we do; at least this whole story produced their soul mates…

- No kidding! Said Candy laughing

They joined the group of former students of St. Paul.

- There you are, finally! Said Patty

- Holding each other…said Annie smiling, the pretend Pony hill made its miracle?

- Yes, said Candy smiling

Annie hugged her and Patty too. They also hugged Terry.

- Finally! Congratulations! Said Annie

- Yes, said Patty, you were the first to fall in love and you’re the last one to get together!

- The circumstances of life, said Terry smiling, in any case, this time, I will let no one get between me and my Freckles…

- And I will let nothing come between Terry and me, said Candy

Rosemonde and Richard arrived and found their parents holding each other.

- Mum? Said Rosemonde

- Dad? Said Richard

- We’re getting married, said Candy smiling

- Oh… said Rosemonde smiling, congratulations!

She kissed her mother and Terry on the cheek.

- Bravo! Said Richard, and congratulations. Rosemonde I told you they would be in a hurry…they’d lost enough time…

- They already know each other, said Rosemonde, why wait?

- You’re right Rosemonde, said Terry, since everybody is in England and if you agreed Candy honey, we could get married here in a few days…

- Here on our hill, said Candy, you think Mother Margaret will let us do it?

- Of course, said Terry

- Great! Said Annie, Candy, we’re going to go shopping! We’re going to have fun preparing your wedding!

- This time, we’re going to be there, said Patty laughing

Stear, Archie, Neil come to congratulate them and the rest of the party continued in happiness, joy, laughs and dances. Terry invited everybody to his wedding, everybody he knew and didn’t know. He went to talk to Mother Margaret who gave them permission to have their wedding there in college. Father Joseph was going to perform the ceremony. The wedding was going to take place next Saturday.

The students say goodbye to their parents and they went back to their rooms. The parents left St. Paul College after a wonderful day full of joy and memories.

Eliza was with her daughter, Elizabeth in her room, she was in a very bad mood, her daughter too.

- Mom, why are you sulking? Asked her daughter

- Candy and Terry got back together! Said Eliza, 20 years later!

- Oh… and Richard and Rosebud got together… said Elizabeth

- Richard Grandchester?

- Yes… mom, he’s so handsome. He was nice to me… she stole him from me! The bitch!

- You didn’t see her coming?

- No, they were always arguing! The next thing I knew they were sucking their faces off! I didn’t know she was stealing him away from me!

- She’s exactly like her mother! She stole Terrence from me, right from under my nose!

- How do I get him back, mom?

Eliza looked at her daughter and she said to herself, if she couldn’t be with Terry, at least her daughter could have a chance with Terry’s son. She decided to help her daughter the only way she knew; which was lying.

- Well, you can tell them that Rosebud is Terry’s daughter, which will make them brother and sister and they won’t be able to be together anymore…

- Yes! Great! They’re brother and sister… it’s only a rumour, but it should be enough to separate them… are you sure about that mom?

- I’m sure they got together during the war… and Rosebud was conceived during the war… there was also a fight at the New Year’s Eve party between Michael and Terry because of Candy and the baby…

- I remember hearing you guys talking about that… Thanks mom! But, what about you, can you get Terrence back?

- No, I’m afraid that boat has sailed a long time ago said Eliza bitter, I’ve burned all my bridges with Terry…it’s over…

Eliza finally realised that Terry would never be hers; like she didn’t see it 21 years ago! But she had given her daughter a very bad idea, so she can ruin the blossoming love of Richard and “Rosebud”.

Candy and her friends were living in the Andrew castle of London. And Terry was in his father’s castle in London.

- You want to come and have a last drink, home with me Freckles?

- Ok, Terry. Annie, you guys go ahead, I’m going with Terry…

- Of course, said Archie a little weird

They all left together in the happy college atmosphere to the Andrew castle and Candy went with Terry to his father’s castle. Eliza was alone; since her husband had left her, so she went to get a drink in an English pub and find herself some company…

Candy was with Terry in the Grandchester’s castle. She knew the one in Scotland not that one. It was bigger than the one in Scotland and a lot more majestic.

- My father is resting in Scotland, he has been a little sick, said Terry

- How’s your mother? Asked Candy

- She’s fine; she married Hathaway three years ago…

- What? Oh… well I always thought that she was too beautiful and too young to stay alone for all those years… better late than ever… I’m happy for her

- “Better late than never”…Every time I saw you during the war, it was like they were sticking a knife in my heart… but I was happy to see you, even in the arms of my best friend…

- I’m sorry…Stear told me that I didn’t want to go back to America because I had the two man I loved with me… he was right, there’s no other place I wanted to be, than near Michael….and you.

- The danger and the horror of the war, didn’t seem to scare you… and it killed me every time to tell you to get pregnant so you could go back to America… and when you finally got pregnant…I was sick to my stomach

- So you know how I felt when you told me that Susanna was in the family way… oh Terry I thought it was over between us for good…

- Susanna accused me, after the reception and the fight with Michael, that I stayed at the war to be with you…

- For Eliza, I'm sorry… she was bugging me on the fact that a bullet should’ve killed me… I told her I almost died and you brought me back… and she insinuated that I was cheating on Michael with you under his nose; so I said, “yes of course, under the bullets and bombshells, it was a real pleasure!” She must’ve heard Annie, Patty and I talking at the hotel that Michael didn’t know about the two of us… I wanted to tell him Terry… but Eliza told him in her mean way twisting the truth… I’m sorry…

- Don’t worry about it, Freckles; I didn’t say anything because I liked seeing you too…

- That’s what we were reduced to… to see each other and be happy in our hearts with the wall of marriage forbidding us from doing anything…

- I know that you would’ve never cheated on your husband, Candy and I would never have asked you that, even if I was dreaming of making love to you every single night…

- Well there’s a way to make that dream come true now, my love…

- Candy, I love you so much he said taking her lips

I'll hold you, and touch you

And make you my woman

I'll give you my love

With sweet surrender

Tonight our hearts will beat as one

And I will hold you and touch you

And make you my woman tonight

There's something in your eyes I see

A pure and simple honesty

Hold me in your arms tonight

Fill my life with pleasure

Let's not waste this precious time

This moment's ours to treasure

Hold me in your arms tonight

We'll make it last forever

When the morning sun appears

We'll find our way together

I believe you

When you say that you love me

Know that

I won't take you for granted

Tonight the magic has begun

So won't you hold me

Touch me

Make me your woman tonight

There's something in your eyes I see

I won't betray your trust in me

Hold me in your arms tonight

To fill my life with pleasure

Let's not waste this precious time

This moment's ours to treasure

Hold me in your arms tonight

We'll make it last forever

When the morning sun appears

We'll find our way together

She put her arms around Terry’s neck and responded to his kiss with passion. Terry carried her without stopping kissing her and he climbed the stair of the castle’s big staircase to his bedroom. He closed the door behind him and put Candy softly on the bed… they took their clothes off, looking in each other’s eyes, full of love. When they were in Adam and Eve costume, Terry took the lips of his beloved, caressing her everywhere with his hands. Candy felt the essence of her cells get on fire. She had never felt like that, so hot, so passionate, so excited…She started to caress the man she loved and kissing him everywhere. He took one of her breast in his mouth and was caressing her nipple with his hot and soft tongue. She moved her head to the back with a moaning of pleasure and he was caressing her hair….when he finally was inside her, when they finally were one, after dreaming about it for years, they almost didn’t believe that all that happiness was happening to them… the pleasure was big, progressing little by little to the mother of all climaxes, making them scream loud their apotheosis. They had the impression the earth moved…they were sweating and breathless. He turned on her side to take her in his arms and he realised that she was crying in silence. He got worried.

- Candy? Are you ok? Did I hurt you, my love? I’m sorry, I…

- No, no, she said laughing in the middle of her tears, no, my love, you were wonderful…

- But why are you crying then, honey?

- Joy, pleasure, sadness, love, all that lost time…

- We have all the time in the world now… and since we know what it is to be separated from one another, we will always stay together and we won’t lose a minute of our happiness…I will never let you go again, I love you Candy. You brought me back to life…

- You too. A part of me die when we separated, and the other one with Michael…he was my life buoy. Maybe I used him, but I loved him…

- You’re lucky...at least you were able to choose your husband, a man you loved, he said a little hurt, I was stuck with Susanna… I even tried to force my heart to love her; in vain…I didn’t even miss her during all those years at the war…

- Terry I loved Michael…we can love in different ways, and I loved Michael… but I never stopped loving you Terry, not even for a second… you’re my soul mate and the communion we just shared only confirmed what you and I knew in our hearts since our first meeting; that you and I are one…

- Since our first meeting?

- I know, I was thinking about Anthony… he had just died. But you never got out of my head…I couldn’t stop thinking about you, even if I thought you were unbearable…

- I was provoking you because I couldn’t stop thinking about you…

- I had an impression of déjà vu seeing Rosemonde and Richard arguing…

- It’s like we transmitted our love to the next generation

- At least one positive thing came out of all this story; our children…

- You told me we had to live for our children… and something else too

- That I would’ve died if you had died… I thank Susanna for saving your life… even if it brought everything that followed… we’re together, 20 years later, but together…

- After a thousand and one ups and downs…

- Terry that was really romantic; carrying me to climb the stairs… I felt like Scarlett O’Hara Butler…

- “Gone with the wind” an excellent book by Margaret Mitchell… I felt a little like Rhett Butler…

- I didn’t know you read romance novels…

- Honey, I’m an actor, I write too and I read to search for new ideas for plays… and it’s also an historical book…

- Oh… so Rhett Butler, she said with a southern accent, do you want to repeat the infraction we just did?

- Infraction? Oh, we’re not married yet… but Candy, I married you in my heart the day we met; you’re my wife in every sense that matters… Scarlett O’Hara Butler, he said with a southern accent…

- Oh Terry, Rhett Butler, she said with tears in her eyes, that’s the most beautiful thing you’ve ever said to me…

He kissed her passionately and they spent their first night of passion, talking, laughing, without letting of each other or course, and devoting themselves to the pleasure of the flesh. They didn’t sleep all night. Finally at dawn, they fell asleep, exhausted, physically and mentally without letting go of each other.

IT’S OVER…

Chapter 21
“Like a Greek Tragedy…”

It was the end of the afternoon in St. Paul College; the students were walking around in the college property. Rosemonde and Richard were sitting by the tree on the pretend Pony hill, talking and holding each other. Their friends were not too far either. Everybody was talking and chatting. Elizabeth Preston, who liked Richard, was looking at them with a mean eye. Anthony, her cousin, was next to her. Caroline and Nina were also there and they were looking at Rosemonde and Richard.

- They’re overdoing it! Said Anthony irritated

- Anthony, would you stop it please, said Caroline…

- Yes, said Nina, Anthony stop

- You think she really loves him? They’re going to be brother and sister, that should’ve stopped them…Said Anthony

- Who says they’re not really siblings? Said Elizabeth, I heard my mother say that Candy was pregnant by another man than her husband…

- No, said Caroline outraged, that’s not true! Aunt Candy would’ve said something to Rosemonde…

- I don’t believe a word of it! Said Nina, considering the source…

- You can believe it or not…maybe her mother didn’t tell her anything, said Elizabeth, maybe she thinks it’s not serious between them…

- Brother and sister, said Anthony please, what if it’s the truth?

- It’s not true! Said Caroline

- Elizabeth, you’re really mean! Said Nina

- I say it’s the truth, said Elizabeth, wait until I tell them, they’re going to be flabbergasted!

- Elizabeth, you can’t say something like that without being sure, said Caroline, that’s mean, you only want to break them up…

- So what? I want Richard, he’s so gorgeous and I thought he couldn’t stand her… he was with me…

- He was probably just being a gentleman, said Caroline, you can see that he likes Rosemonde…

- He’s never been with you Elizabeth and you know it, said Nina, you’re deluding yourself! And Anthony, I can’t believe you’re so desperate that you listen to Elizabeth’s rambling!

- She’s his sister said, Elizabeth, and I’m going to tell them…

- Elizabeth, said Caroline, don’t…

- Anthony said Elizabeth, if I drop the bombshell on them, she becomes free, and she has a thing for you…

- That’s all you’re interested in? Said Nina, to separate two people in love?

- It’s incest, said Elizabeth… we’re doing them a favour

- You know it’s not true, their parents saw them together, they would’ve said something, said Caroline

Neil Jr. came to sit next to them, and he asked them what they were talking about.

- Junior, said Elizabeth tell them that Rosemonde and Richard are brother and sister, you heard what mom said, didn’t you?

- Yes, said Neil Jr. , but…

- But what? Candy was with Richard’s father during the war, there was even a fight between Richard’s father and Candy’s husband at the New Year’s party…

- How do you know all that? You weren’t born or you were a baby, said Caroline

- My mother told me… said Elizabeth

- And Aunt Eliza always tells the truth, said Nina ironically

They were still looking at Rosemonde and Richard, kissing and laughing. Elizabeth stoop up, she couldn’t take it anymore… she had to make them miserable, because if the rumour was not true, it was enough to make them miserable for a little while. When they were going to hear that they might be brother and sister, they were going to be disgusted by one another for a while or for good…. She arrived in front of the lovebirds and she was looking at them with envy and jealousy.

Richard was holding Rosemonde in his arms and he was kissing her on the neck whispering words at her hear and she was laughing.

- Richard, said Elizabeth, I see you’re busy… you forgot all about me…

- Elizabeth, you’re only a friend, there’s nothing between us, said Richard

- And you spent your time arguing with Rosemonde and now she’s the love of your life?

- Yes, she is… I love her, said Richard

- Oh Richard, said Rosemonde, I love you too…

They kissed lightly on the lips and looked at each other with love.

- Well, it’s kind of normal for a brother and sister to love each other, but the kiss is kind of disgusting, said Elizabeth

- Elizabeth, our parents are getting married, we’re not really brother and sister, said Rosemonde

- Oh… you don’t know? Your parents were together at the war…Rosemonde, you’re Terrence Grandchester’s daughter…

- WHAT???!!! Said Richard and Rosemonde at the same time

- Yes, there was even a fight between your adopted father Rosemonde and Richard’s father…

- No, said Richard, my father would’ve told me…

- You really think he would tell you if he cheated on your mother? And you Rosemonde, you think your mother would tell you if she was unfaithful to your adopted father?

- Stop saying that! Said Rosemonde, I’m Michael Durand’s daughter, not Terrence Grandchester’s! That’s a vicious lie!

- Really? Why did your fathers fought in front of everybody? Because of your mother! My mother said they were together during the war, that’s why they fought…

Rosemonde and Richard were speechless.

- Caroline, Nina, said Rosemonde finally, is this true?

- I don’t know, said Caroline, but I’ve heard the rumours

- Me too said Neil Jr.

- It’s only rumours, said Nina

- Rosemonde, said Anthony, Richard is your brother, stop touching her! he said to Richard

- Rosemonde, said Richard, it’s not true, don’t believe a word they’re saying!

- Can you be sure 100? She asked him

- No, but…

Rosemonde freed herself from Richard’s arms and Anthony tried to take her in his arms to console her, but she ran to her dorm room.

- Rosemonde, wait! Cried Richard

- Let her go, Richard, said Anthony, you really want to risk being with her without being sure?

- She’s not my sister! Yelled Richard

- Yes, she is, said Elizabeth, go ask your father…your parents were lovers during the war!

- Believe me, I will! Said Richard

- He’s going to confirm what I just said, Rosebud is your sister!

- No! Stop saying that! Yelled Richard, why are you so mean? I thought we were friends…

- I am your friend, Richard, said Elizabeth, I’m stopping you from committing incest, believe me

- No, you’re stopping me from being with the one I love! You’re mean and vindictive! Why didn’t you say something before?

- Before, you weren’t that close, you were fighting like cats and dogs and you were taking care of me…

- So, that’s it? You’re jealous?! Oh my God!

- No, I’m telling the truth. You can’t be with Rosemonde, but I’m available, said Elizabeth coming close to him and touching his arm

Caroline had weary sigh and followed Rosemonde to her dorm room with Nina. Richard freed himself from Elizabeth and went for a walk to clear his head. His sister? He was kissing his sister? But… No! That was too disgusting to even think about it! He loved Rosemonde with all his heart…

Rosemonde was in her room crying when Caroline and Nina arrived.

- Rosemonde? Are you ok? Asked Caroline

- No, I’m not! I was kissing my brother! My brother gave me my first kiss! Oh my God! That’s so disgusting!

- Rosemonde, Elizabeth is jealous of you… she…, started Caroline

- You did say you’ve heard the rumours too? Didn’t you? Asked Rosemonde

- Yes, but it was only a rumour… said Nina, I’ve heard Aunt Eliza talking, but you now how she is…

- Where there’s smoke, there’s fire… they were together during the war in France, and I was conceived during the war… said Rosemonde

- But your mother told you their story, didn’t she? Said Caroline

- You think she would tell me if she was unfaithful to my father? No, that’s the kind of things grown ups don’t talk about! Oh Caroline, I love Richard so much!

- Don’t believe Elizabeth, Rosemonde, said Nina, your parents are not crazy, they would’ve told you…

- Maybe they didn’t know we were together… said Rosemonde

- After the spectacle you made of yourselves? Said Nina, the whole world saw you! Even the reverend mother!

- Oh my God! What that’s awful! Said Rosemonde, I was kissing my brother and everybody saw me!

Caroline and Nina were hugging her and consoling her the best way they could. They went back to their own rooms a little later. Rosemonde continued crying and she heard some noise at the window. She went to see, it was Richard.

- What do you want?

- Rosemonde, please, listen to me… you can’t believe…

- Can you guaranty me 100 that it’s not true?

- No. but…hey

- Oh that Elizabeth has planted a seed of doubt in our mind…

- That’s enough to break us up…no, I love you Rosemonde…

- Don’t say that, please…

- No, I’m going to say it…because it’s what I feel…listen, there’s a simple way to solve this; let’s go to the source…

- To the source?

- Yes, let’s go see our parents, let’s ask the two persons involved in all this…

- How? Do we call them here?

- No, that would take too much time, and they won’t be able to come before tomorrow…let’s go see them…

- Get out of college? That’s forbidden…

- Do you want answers or not?

- Yes, but…

- This is an emergency, we have to talk to them now…

- Ok then, let’s go!

- We’ll have to climb the wall…

- No problem…

- You’ll always surprise me, my little frenchie…

Candy and Terry were at the castle, they had just had dinner and they were sitting in the living room on a couch, curled up against each other, talking and laughing happily. They were talking about the night they spent together in the truck, even though it was platonic, it was one of the most beautiful things in their lives.

- The night we spend in the truck, curled up against each other, said Candy was one of the most beautiful nights of my life, to sleep all night long against the warmth of your body…

- It was to not freeze to death during the night, but you can’t know how happy I was to be stuck with you in that truck… but you called out Michael’s name when you woke up…

- That’s because I was feeling guilty to love being in your arms so much… I was dreaming about Michael and I was trying to reassure him that nothing happened… For me too, spending the night with you was magic…

- Magic? Said Rosemonde’s voice, so it’s true? Je suis la fille de Monsieur Grandchester? (I’m Mr. Grandchester’s daughter ? )

Candy and Terry turned around surprised.

- Rosemonde! Said Candy

- Richard! What are you doing here? Said Terry

Their children were looking at them astonished. Magic night? So it was true?

They were lovers? Oh…No!

- We came to get answers… said Richard upset, but we already got them. How could you do this to us?

- Answers about what? Asked Candy

- What did we do? Asked Terry

- You’ve transformed our lives into a Greek Tragedy!!! Said Richard

- A Greek Tragedy? Said Candy surprised, but what the heck are you talking about?

- Maman, said Rosemonde, est-ce que je suis la fille de Monsieur Grandchester? (Mum, am I Mr. Grandchester’s daughter ?)

- WHAT???!!! Said Candy and Terry at the same time

- You heard her, said Richard, is Rosemonde my sister?

Candy and Terry were so stunned that they didn’t know what to say for a moment. Candy stood up and approached her daughter.

- Honey, who told such a story? Asked Candy

- Is it true? Asked Richard

- Who told you that? Asked Terry to his son

- Elizabeth Preston, said Rosemonde

- Oh… said Candy

- Elizabeth Preston? Said Terry without getting it

- Eliza’s daughter… said Candy

- Oh… said Terry, the apple doesn’t fall far from the mean tree…

- Like mother, like daughter, said Candy

- Tell me Richard; Elizabeth has a thing for you? Asked Terry

- We were friends, at least I thought we were, we talked often… he said

- You talked often? Said Candy

- Yes, we get along great, said Richard

- And today she tells you, after seeing you and Rosemonde together I suppose, that you’re brother and sister? Said Candy

- She’s jealous, said Terry

- Vous n’avez toujours pas répondu à ma question! Said Rosemonde irritated (You still haven’t answered my question!)

- You’re right, said Terry to Candy, she speaks French when she’s angry, she looks like you like it’s not possible!

- What about the mini-you over there? Doesn’t he look like you? Said Candy smiling

- Maman! Said Rosemonde getting impatient

- Dad! Said Richard, a little attention, please…

Candy took her daughter by the hand and sat with her on the couch.

- Sweetie, look at me. I’ve never lied to you and you know it… so believe me when I tell you that you’re Michael Durand’s daughter, and there’s absolutely no chance, what so ever, that you’re Terry’s daughter…

- I can confirm it sad Terry, there’s absolutely not a chance that you’re my daughter…

- But you were just talked about a magic night you spent together, said Rosemonde in English showing that she was calming down, she said you were lovers during the war…

- Yes, one night, stuck in a truck during the war in the winter. Nothing happened, said Candy, I’ve never cheated on your father, Rosemonde, you can believe that…

- And I’ve never cheated on your mother, said Terry to his son

- But why did daddy fight with Mr. Grandchester in a party? Asked Rosemonde, it wasn’t because of that?

- No, it was… for something else… said Candy

- What? Said Richard

- It was….a misunderstanding, said Terry, that’s all… you really think that we would’ve let you two get closer if you were brother and sister?

- Really, said Candy, what do you think we are…nuts?

- You see Rosemonde; I told you it was a lie…, said Richard

- Your girlfriend wanted to break us up, she said

- She’s not my girlfriend…..said Richard

- Really? Then why is she so jealous? You talk to her, you give her hope…

- But I didn’t know she would be so jealous… and you’re one to talk! Your blond dandy Anthony Cornwell was ready for you to fall into his arms…!

- Anthony? But…

They continued arguing. Candy and Terry were looking at them, than they looked at each other…

- Maybe I should’ve confronted you about Eliza too… said Candy

- Eliza? Said Terry surprised

- Yes, if you hadn’t been so nice to her, if you hadn’t kissed her hand, if you hadn’t gotten her out of that hole in which she had fallen…

- You didn’t want me to let her rot inside that hole…?

- And why not? Didn’t she deserve it? Especially since her brother made that hole for me… it would’ve been poetic justice…but you had to save her…

- I can’t help it, I like helping damsels in distress…

- Aren’t you the real Prince Charming? If you hadn’t kissed her hand, if you hadn’t saved her from her pretend drowning…

- I didn’t know she was faking it…

- We all knew! She had you with her red curls, she wanted your attention and she got it!

- It’s not my fault if she fell in love with me…!

- What about the diabolical trap? Whose fault was that? You had to make fun of her and insult her…

Their children had stopped arguing and they were looking at them. They realised they were joking, to show them how ridiculous they looked…

- Ok, said Rosemonde, we get it…

- We look ridiculous, said Richard

- If you don’t go back to college in the next two minutes, said Terry, we’re going to take you there by the front door…

- You’ve never been here, said Candy

- Richard, let’s go! Said Rosemonde, thank for everything…!

- Let it be the last time you do this, next time, you’re going to be punished for climbing the wall and leaving the college without permission in the middle of the night, said Candy

The kids left the way they came. They were relieved by their parents’ answers.

- Oh my God, can you believe that?! Asked Candy

- That our children don’t only have the physical resemblance with us?

- But also the emotional and rebel side too…

- Climbing the wall in the middle of the night…

- At least it’s not to go get drunk and fight with thugs!

- I was a snotty-nosed kid, wasn’t I? But you took care of me…

- And you left without waiting for me…

- I didn’t want you to get into trouble… I felt better and if you remember correctly, I didn’t want you to go out…I’m sorry for being a little insolent, but I was very grateful, even if I didn’t show it…

- You were impossible you mean! You used to make me so angry… but I couldn’t stop thinking about you… and when I saw you at the zoo with Albert laughing with all your heart with the ray of sunshine on your face, you looked so irresistible…

- Those were the good old days… said Terry smiling and kissing her hair

They were back on the couch in each other’s arms.

- Yes… I loved that college, just because of you , said Candy

- Me too…

- Eliza is not possible, how could she tell her daughter lies, like that? To give her hope? Based on lies? Life keeps repeating itself… Rosemonde and Richard, like us; there’s an Anthony, Archie and Annie’s son who’s got a thing for her… Elizabeth Preston, Eliza’s daughter, who’s got a thing for Richard, Neil Jr. who’s not as mean as his dad was, and her two best friends, Caroline, Patty’s daughter and Nina, Annie’s daughter

- Wow the next generation of our group, amazing!

- And we’re going to be there to advise them. We’re not going to leave them alone; like we were… we had no one…

- And we made a sacrifice way too big for our age… I look at our children and I don’t see them as big as we thought we were… despite the fact that they’re about the age we were at that time…

- Let’s not think about that… Brother and sister? Oh my God! A real Greek Tragedy!

- I can’t believe they came here to ask us that question!

- And without notice… we could’ve been…

- Could’ve been what? Said Terry getting closer to her

- Making ourselves feel a lot of pleasure she said taking his lips…

Rosemonde and Richard went back to college. Richard took her to her bedroom.

- Are you satisfied now? Asked Richard

- Just hold me hard in your arms, she said, the thought that we were brother and sister made me sick. I love you so much…

- I love you too… he said holding her, everything is going to be fine. We can be together…

- Forever?

- Forever!

He stayed with her for a little while, and then he went to his room.

Ever since they got back together, Candy and Terry were living together. She went to get her stuff at the Andrew castle, the day after their kids confronted them. They were doing whatever pleased them, because, they had no intention of worrying about what other people would think. They were thinking about them, first and foremost. What they wanted ever since their tragic separation, was to be together, and together they were.

- So, said Annie, how was it?

- What do you think? It was more wonderful than in my dreams! Said Candy smiling

- A passion that had been refrained for 20 years… I can imagine said Patty smiling, you’re going to stay at his father’s castle with him?

- I don’t ever want to be separated from him, said Candy

- I can see, said Annie smiling

- Oh, Annie! I didn’t know anyone could be this happy! After all those years… I though it was over with Terry for good…

- Life is full of surprise, and I’m so happy for you Candy, for the both of you! Said Annie hugging her

- Thank you Annie, said Candy

- Me too, said Patty smiling, it’s so good to see you happy!

- Thank you Patty, said Candy smiling and hugging her.

- By the way, said Annie, Anthony called me about the “Greek Tragedy” with Rosemonde and Richard…

- Yes, said Patty, Caroline told met Elizabeth told them they were siblings?

- Oh….yes. Rosemonde and Richard came to confront us at the castle…

- I can’t believe Eliza is encouraging her daughter to tell lies…said Annie

- And an awful lie, said Patty

- Well she doesn’t have a good role model with her mother and grandmother…said Candy

- Anthony is disappointed; he just realized he loved Rosemonde…

- Oh… said Candy, Rosemonde liked him until she arrived in college and met Richard…

- Sounds like I’ve heard that story somewhere, said Patty

- Yes, said Annie, about 21 years ago…

- I can’t believe my daughter is in love with Terry’s son! Said Candy

- Well she does look like you… not only physically apparently…,said Annie

- And apparently the Grandchester man like freckles… said Patty

The three friends burst out laughing. Candy took her suitcase and they decided to go downstairs to join the men in the living room.

- Are you ready honey? Asked Terry

- Yes, my heart, I’m ready

- Let me take your suitcase…

- Thanks honey said Candy smiling

- You’re not staying for lunch? Said Stear

- No, said Terry some other time, we are invited by friends of my father’s…

- Are you going to take over after your father Terry? Asked Stear

- We’re not there yet, we’ll see said Terry

- That wouldn’t bother me to be the duchess of Grandchester, said Candy smiling

- You’re already a countess with Michael, said Archie, you were destined to be in the nobility, Candy

- Go tell that to Eliza and her mother, said Candy

- Eliza is a woman alone and unhappy, Mrs. Reagan is ashamed of her daughter’s indecent behaviour, while she was married and since her divorce, said Patty…

- What goes around, comes around said Annie

- But I’m still sorry for her, said Candy

- I didn’t expect any less from you, Freckles, said Terry laughing, you’re way too good…

They burst out laughing and Candy and Terry left, promising them to come for diner in the evening.

Stear and Archie told their wives that Candy should’ve stayed at least with them until the wedding.

- They could’ve waited to be married to live together, said Archie

- Yeah, said Stear, why couldn’t she come and sleep here?

- Archie, said Annie, you know long they waited to be together, how long they waited for this moment?

- Yes, said Patty, they wanted to be together even before we realised that we wanted to be together…

- So, let’s leave her alone, she was deprived of the love of her life for far too long, said Annie.

- The circumstances should’ve convinced them that they were not made for each other, said Archie

- But their love was so strong, said Stear, she’d rather be at the war than in America because Terry was there…

- They finally found each other, let them savour their love and their reunion, said Annie

- They’re not taking the time they have for granted anymore said Patty

- I’m so happy to see her so radiant… said Annie

Meanwhile in college, Rosemonde and Richard were inseparable again. Anthony and Elizabeth saw them and they went to talk to them.

- You’re still together? Said Elizabeth

- Rosemonde, said Anthony, you want to risk it….?

- Anthony, I asked my mother, and she said that I was my father’s daughter…

- But of course, said Elizabeth, what would you want her to say?

- Elizabeth, said Rosemonde, my mother is not a liar, as opposed to yours! She always tells me the truth, especially on things so important!

- But…! Started Elizabeth

- It’s over, said Richard, you tried, you failed. Rosemonde is with me. Our parents are getting married, and we’re all going to be one big happy family in the same house.

- Isn’t it every teenager’s dream to live in the same house as their boyfriend or girlfriend…? Said Rosemonde smiling

- No kidding, said Richard laughing

- Now Elizabeth, you can beat it, leave us alone. I still can’t believe you were so cruel!

- Her mother was odious to our parents, said Richard, she set a diabolical trap for them… like my father said, the apple doesn’t fall far from the mean tree!

- You both go to hell!! Said Elizabeth leaving

Anthony didn’t say anything, he looked at Rosemonde sadly and he left. He had no chance with her; he could feel she loved Richard. He cursed himself for not seeing Rosemonde’s feelings sooner… Caroline and Nina were happy for their friend…

The preparations for the wedding were going fine. Albert had been contacted by Archie on his business trip, and he will arrive just in time with his wife for the ceremony. He wanted to walk Candy to the altar. After all those years, she was finally marrying Terry. This time, nothing was going to come in their way, or disturb their dream.

The day before the wedding Candy and Terry spent their day writing their vows. They had dinner for the last time as singles. The duke of Grandchester, even though old, arrived without noticed and he was surprised to find his son with …

- Candy Andrew? He said looking at her

- Your grace? I’m surprised you even recognize me, much less my name said Candy

- I never forgot the young girl who pleaded my son’s case so well… and I left him alone because of you… said the duke, you look exactly the same….

- Really? Said Terry, you’ve never told me that, Freckles… I’ve always wondered why my father never came after me, and let me pursue my dream of being an actor…

- I forgot about it myself said Candy laughing

- You’re full of surprised, Mrs. Tarzan…you’re giving me one more reason to love you. Dad, I’m marrying Candy tomorrow, in the court of St. Paul College…

- Oh, said the duke, I gave so much money to that college that it’s practically mine…

- I would like for you to be there…said Terry

- I will be honoured to be there, said the duke, congratulations to both of you.

He hugged his son and Candy too. His son was finally going to be happy, it was not too late for him… he, on the other hand, didn’t get the same luck; Eleonor was finally married and he regretted not to have married her himself.

Annie and Patty went shopping with Candy to buy a white dress. They also bought the flowers for her hair and a veil. The court of St. Paul College was transformed and decorated for the wedding. Chairs with flowers, an altar and a white carpet for the dance floor and a very big table which was full of food from a caterer. An orchestra was suppose to play the “Canon” by Pachebel and the “Wedding March” by Mendelssohn, for the ceremony and as the music for the reception. But there was also a record player so the orchestra could also rest and for the youngster to dance to their music. Everything was ready for our two lovebirds to be united by marriage officially forever, because in their hearts, they had been united since the day they met.

IT’S OVER…

Chapter 22
“After the rain, comes sunshine…”

The orchestra was playing the “Canon” from Pachelbel. Rosemonde entered with a basket of rose petals, which she dropped on her ways; she was wearing a light pink dress in chiffon and her long blond hair was falling on her shoulders. Terry was waiting at the altar with his son, they were both wearing tuxedos. The bridesmaid arrived Annie and Patty with light pink dresses too. Everybody stood up to greet the bride, and the wedding march started.

Candy arrived at Albert’s arms in a lace white dress that Annie had chosen and modified… the veil had small heart shape drawings on it and she was wearing a tiara and her hair was up in a beautiful chignon… they arrived at the altar and Albert gave her hand to Terry.

Candy and Terry had spent the night before writing their wedding vows. Terry started;

- So many years gone, still I remember How did I ever let my heart believe In one who was never enough for me And we'll have no ending if we can hold on And I think I've come this far because of you There could be no other love, but ours will do You are the Queen of my thoughts, the one I never thought I’ll have You are the one romance, I've had deep down in my heart You are the miracle, I never thought I’d have You are the one more chance I didn’t think I’d deserved No one will ever touch me more And I only hope that in return I might have saved the best of me for you I love you infinitely, honey

And here is Candy’s answer;

- And so many years gone, love that was so wrong I can't forget the way it used to be And how you changed the taste of love for me I will never feel that for anybody else And I know you love me as much, if not more No matter how much we have to learn That my heart belongs to you forever You are my one more chance I never thought I'd find You are the one romance I've always known in my mind No one will ever touch me more The universe finally reunited us, forever this time And I only hope that in return I might have saved the best of me for you I love you so much my love

Candy was crying of joy… and Terry too! They contaminated the whole assembly who also started to cry. It took them 20 years, but the finally realized their dream, on the hill where they used to see each other, where they fell in love everyday, more and more and their wedding day was no exceptions… they were united for good, more in love than ever and nothing is going to come and separate them. They kissed for a long time when the priest declared them man and wife; the guests were starting to whisper… But our newly-wed felt the kiss lasted 3 seconds! When they finally stopped, every body was applauding. Rosemonde kissed her mother and her new stepfather, Richard kissed his new stepmother and hugged his father. All their friends and family came to congratulate them…

Since it was the week end, most of the students were gone, but those who were there, were invited to join the party. Candy and Terry opened the dance floor looking at each other with love and the others followed them. They ate and drank as much as they wanted. Candy danced with Albert.

- Terry must’ve told you about his visit to Chicago before you went to war, since Michael apparently didn’t tell you anything…said Albert

- Michael knew? Said Candy

- Yes, Terry told him before he knew he was your husband… I wanted to protect you, Candy, that’s all…

- I know Albert, I’m not mad at you…

- But, that’s why you left, because you were hoping he would come and get you… he came and I send him away… I lied, I was in love with you, Candy

- Albert…

- That’s why I discouraged Terry; he was going to ruin everything between us. We got along so well. That’s why I didn’t tell you right away that I got my memory back. I wanted to let you time to get over Terry… but I didn’t think you were going to go to the war…

- That’s all in the past, Albert. I’m sorry if you had to suffer… let’s forget about it… I’m married to the man of my dreams and I’m very happy. You’re married too now, and happy

- Yes…

Candy danced with her cousins, she even danced with Neil. But most of the time she was in her husband’s arms.

Candy and Terry stayed in Europe until their children were on vacation to go back to America with them. But in the mean time, they travelled in Europe; in France where they able to visit calmly as opposed to when there was the war; in Belgium where a lot died during the war; in Germany they went back to the frontier where they shared that forced and magnificent kiss, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Spain, Portugal , Italy, Switzerland Greece, etc…In Austria, they went to the Great bals of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Vienna and they danced waltzes after waltzes without getting tired, as long as they were dancing together. Around the end of July, they went to get their children in college and the other children went back with them to America by boat.

Terry had his apartment in New York where he used to go to be far away from the tension with Susanna. That’s where he was going to take Candy and his family. Then they will look for their dream house together.

During the crossing, Rosemonde and Richard were asking themselves how their parents couldn’t get enough of each other. They were inseparable. Their friends told them about it too.

- Your parents… are not getting tired of each other? Said Caroline

- Yeah said Anthony, it’s like they’re 16…

- Well said Rosemonde, they were separated for way too long and wrongly, they’re making up for lost time…

- And they’re just in the beginning, said Neil Jr., it’s going to change…

- I don’t think so, said Richard, I’ve never seen my father so passionate and in love with a woman

- My mother loved my father, but I can see how much she loves Terry like crazy…My father told her to be happy after his death…

- Well it’s convenient to have the husband’s blessing to marry your lover, said Elizabeth

- Elizabeth, said Rosemonde, one more word on my parents, and I’m going to beat the crap out of you!

The others burst out laughing and Elizabeth shut up, she was afraid of fighting; Rosemonde was a tomboy and she was stronger than her… And on top of that, Elizabeth realized that she will never have Richard.

Once in America, they went to the Terry’s apartment and the others took the train to Chicago.

- Didn’t you live in a house with Susanna? Asked Candy to Terry in their bedroom

- Yes, but I didn’t want to bring you on Susanna’s deathbed, honey

- Oh, I wouldn’t have wanted that either, to sleep on her bed, but there must have been other bedrooms… you shouldn’t have bothered…

- Honey, I had this apartment for a while; I used to come here to rest emotionally and think about the Queen of my thoughts…This is where I imagined myself with you, where I kept everything that reminded me of you, my lost love, your letters, the poems I was writing on you, memories of St. Paul… and that dream has finally come true, because you’re here with me and you’re my wife…

- Oh Terry! She said jumping to his neck

Terry remembered all of sudden what had saved his life during the war…

- The harmonica… Candy the harmonica…

He let go of her, and went to his drawers and got out what was left of the harmonica. It was a shapeless metal thing, which once was an harmonica he was supposed to play instead of smoking… he gave it to Candy

- What is this? Asked Candy surprised

- The harmonica you gave me…

- The harmonica? What happened to it?

- I got a bullet during the war, on the chest, and without the harmonica, I would’ve gotten it in the middle of my heart and I would’ve died on the spot… the harmonica was in my pocket…

- Oh my God!

- You saved my life, my love, he said coming near her, thank you, thank you for giving me this harmonica to stop me from smoking… if I had any doubt at that moment, when Michael told me that the harmonica had stopped the bullet from killing me, even though we weren’t together, I knew without a doubt that you were put on this earth for me… you saved my life, thank you my love…

Candy didn’t know what to say. She was so surprised by what Terry had just told her.

- But the material from the harmonica couldn’t sustain the bullet of a gun, said Candy

- It’s a real miracle, honey… I wanted to die at the war too, that bullet was going to grant my secret wish…

- Terry… it wasn’t your destiny to die at the war, we were destined to finally be together, even though it’s years later, but were still destined to be together…I’m happy that harmonica saved your life. If you had died, I would’ve died too in the long run… I love you so much my love, and I will never get tired of telling you

- I will never get tired of hearing it. I love you… he said taking her lips

Rosemonde and Richard were passing in front of the open door of their parents’ bedroom, and they saw them kissing on the bed.

- I’ve never seen a couple more in love, than those two! Said Rosemonde

- I didn’t know my father could be so passionate, said Richard

- It’s a wonder how they lived without each other for all those years…

- I’m happy that my father is finally with the woman he loves…

- And I’m happy that my mother found her lost love… she was happy with my father, but now I can see something was missing and she found that with your father…

- 20 years later… it’s never too late in life… but I hope we’ll be luckier than them

- In any case, their life story is going to serve us as a lesson

- Nothing is going to stop us from being together, Rosemonde, I promise you…

They were walking to the living room, and once there, Richard hugged her to reassure her. Anyway, after what happened to them, their parents will not leave their children fall into the same situation as them, if something was to happen…

Eleonor, Robert, Karen, her husband Ken, her children she had two girls Kelly and Tara, Charlie, Sandra with Sam and their daughter, Sandralina, all came to see them to welcome them home. Sam and Sandralina, and Karen’s girls left the grown ups in the living room and they went to Richard’s bedroom with Rosemonde.

- Richard? Your little sister? She’s great…, said Sam

- She’s mine Sam…said Richard

- What? But…said Sam

- You heard me, I love her like crazy…said Richard

- Your little sister? Said Sam

- Stop saying that, our parents are married, that’s all…said Richard

- It’s still kind of weird…said Sam

- Guys! Said Rosemonde, I’m here… but just act like I’m not here…

- Sorry, hon, said Richard, I was just telling Sam that you’re out of reach for him

- Out of reach? There were others that weren’t? Said Rosemonde

- Are you kidding? Said Sandralina, those two used to play ping pong with girls!

- Really? said Rosemonde

The boys remained silent. Rosemonde shook her head and burst out laughing.

- I wish you could’ve seen your faces…if you promise me that there won’t be any others…

- I promise you said Richard, you’re the only one I said “I love you” to…

- You told her you loved her? Said Sam, man you’ve really fallen hard for her!

- I love you too, said Rosemonde kissing him…

- Aren’t you two so cute?! Said Sam smiling

It was the first time he’s seen his friend so serious with a girl, and it was also the first time he saw his uncle Terry so happy with a woman. That’s because it wasn’t any woman, it was his soul mate.

- Come on girls, said Rosemonde, let’s leave the guys talk about their “ping pong”…

They burst out laughing and Rosemonde got out with the girls to go to her bedroom. The boys stayed to chat and listen to music. The girls were in Rosemonde’s bedroom.

- Do your parents know you’re together? Asked Sandralina

- Yes… said Rosemonde

- And it doesn’t bother them?

- No… at least they can keep an eye on us…

- So, you’re not…doing it yet?

- Doing what? Oh….no!

- It must be tempting… still

- Maybe, but I’m not ready for that… I’ll wait until I’m married

- That’s a good idea said Kelly

- Yeah, you wouldn’t want to get pregnant… said Tara

In the living room, the grown ups were also talking.

- Candy, said Eleonor, finally! You’re my daughter in law! I bet Terry married you the same day!

- Almost, said Candy laughing, a few days later!

- The universe was finally kind with you two, it’s never too soon! 20 years later!

- It proves that’s it’s never too late in life, said Charlie

- Yes, Terry, I’m happy for you. I wish I could’ve done more, at the time, but I didn’t really have the right to defend you to Mrs. Marlowe, said Robert

- I know Robert, and I was too proud at that time to ask for help anyway, I wanted to solve everything by myself…

- And the result was a catastrophe! Said Eleonor, you should’ve come to me, I would have talked to Mrs. Marlowe, she was there for her daughter, I should’ve been there for you…

- I know mum, thanks. Said Terry

- It was a crime to separate the two of you, said Karen

- All is well that ends well, said Candy smiling, let’s talk about the present now…

- Yes, said Eleonor, I heard my grandson is in love with your daughter, Candy?

- Weird isn’t it? Said Candy, he is his father’s son; they have the same taste for blonds with freckles…

- And like her mother, Rosemonde loves good looking British guys with blue eyes, said Terry

- This is the case to say it, the apples doesn’t fall far from their tree, said Eleonor

- The next generation is going to be luckier than you; they are living under the same roof! Said Karen as brother and sister…

They continued talking of everyday things, they had diner together and spent a nice evening.

They looked for a house together and they were able to move in before school started. Rosemonde and Richard, didn’t go back to St. Paul College, they stayed with their parents. The atmosphere of love that was there was irresistible and very pleasant. Rosemonde went to the French school in New York, and Richard went to a private school. They were both wearing uniforms. They wanted to be in the same school, but Rosemonde really wanted to study in French. They were living in the same house anyway, and their schools were not that far away from each other. Their romance was blossoming slowly. It’s like their parent’s passion was a little overwhelming for them, so they were taking things slow…they had all the time in the world

Candy and her new family were sitting in the living room one night, when the butler announced that someone was there to see them…They weren’t expecting anybody.

- Let the person in, said Terry

- Very well sir, said the butler

A man in his forties came into the living room. He was dressed in a grey suit and he had a briefcase.

- Good evening, Mr. Grandchester, madam, children… said the man I’m Gilbert Duchatelet attorney at law

- Good evening sir, said Candy, please have a seat…

- Thank you, said Mr. Duchatelet

- You want something to drink? Asked Candy

- No, thank you. I’m fine.

- What can we do for you? Asked Terry

- My firm works with another one in France and I represent the estate of Michael Durand, Count of Montour, in America. I have envelopes to deliver to you only; if the Count’s widow, the Countess of Montour, is married to Terrence Grandchester… said the lawyer

Candy and Terry looked at each other.

- That’s the case, right? You did marry Mr. Grandchester madam? Asked the lawyer

- Yes, said Candy

- That’s perfect, said the lawyer taking out a file from his briefcase; he gave to Candy with a pen, can you sign here please, madam…?

Candy signed the paper and the lawyer gave her an envelope. He also gave one to Terry.

- Thank you, said Terry

- Alright. I’m going to leave you. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me. My address and my phone number are in the envelopes. Goodbye.

- Goodbye, said the family

- What is it, mum? Asked Rosemonde

- A letter from your father, said Candy moved

- Dad? Said Richard

- A letter from Michael said Terry

- Oh… said Rosemonde emotional, we’re going to let you read your letters in peace, let’s go Richard…

- Are you ok, sweetie? Asked Candy

- Yes, mum, I’m fine…Said Rosemonde with tears in her voice

Richard took her by the arm and they got out of the living room to go to their bedroom. Rosemonde was thinking about her father and she was crying, Richard was consoling her.

In the living room Terry opened Michael’s letter and read it out loud.

Hello buddy!

If you’re reading this, that means I’m in the great beyond and you’ve got my widow in your arms! Don’t worry; I haven’t forgotten the good friend you were to me. I was angry with you for hiding the fact that the woman you loved was also the one I loved with all my heart. I would’ve done the same thing in your place. But I can’t forget about the time we spent together, during the horror of the war. We lost a lot of our friends and our friendship got stronger during tough times.

I forgive you for hiding the identity of the Queen of your thoughts. I know she still loves you, she told me from the beginning that you’ll always be in her heart, so make her very happy, because she made me very happy, until the last second. Take good care of our wife and don’t take any second for granted… I read your collection of poems “The Queen of my thoughts”; I now know that she gave you the harmonica that saved your life. I understand better your emotions and your tears that day; our wife saved your life without even knowing it…I’m happy you’re alive, because now I’m sure she’s going to be with a man who loves her as much as I did, if not more…Be happy together, and I trust you’ll be a good step dad for my daughter too.

Goodbye

Michael

Candy read her letter out loud too, with tears in her eyes.

Candy my love

If you’re reading this, it means that I’m not there anymore and you’ve moved on with Terry, the love of your life. I’m not mad honey. You were the perfect wife, on every point and you had given me a beautiful little girl. I’ve never doubted your love for me, my darling. I was very happy with you. But I left too soon, so I hope you’re happy after me… with the one who never stopped talking to me about the one he loved, the Queen of his thought, the one who never stopped loving you, the one you loved before me… Be happy, my love, life is too short, take it from me…

I love you Candy, be happy , don’t be sad because of me. I only want you to be happy.

Your first husband,

Michael

Terry approached her and hugged her, Candy was crying in silence. Michael wanted them to live in peace. Terry was relieved that his best friend had forgiven him and that he died in peace.

- You were right, honey, Michael gave me your book to show us that we had his blessing… oh Michael!

- He was a good man, Candy.

- I know; I miss him everyday…

- I know honey

She kissed her husband and she stood up.

- I’m going to go see Rosemonde

- Ok, honey…

Candy went to see her daughter in her room. She was still crying. She took her in her arms and they cried together. Richard left them to go join his father in the living room.

- Rosemonde… are you ok?

- Yes, mum. What were those letters about?

- I can tell you now…

She told her daughter what had happened during the war, and why the fight between Michael and Terry happened

- He forgave you? Said Rosemonde

- He was a good man, said Candy crying

- He didn’t want Terry and you to feel guilty…

- We can now have closure and put all this behind us…

Terry, in the living room was telling his son what happen.

- Now, you can live in peace, without feeling guilty said Richard

- I’m so relieved he forgave me… we can now put all that behind us. Thank God.

Candy didn’t take long to be in the family way. With all the trips around Europe, her cycle was a little disturbed. She was suspecting a pregnancy, but she went to see a doctor to be sure. The doctor confirmed her suspicions. She was so happy. She went to a baby store and she bought two pairs of boots, a blue one and a pink one. When she arrived home, she one of the blue boots and one of the pink one, and she put in a transparent box. She asked the cook to make a special dinner of her and Terry. The children had dinner in the kitchen and they were doing their homework.

Terry came back from the theatre after a long day. He remembered the time where he’d rather stay at the theatre, as late as possible, because he didn’t feel like going home to Susanna. He went back for his son, only…. But he spent a lot of time at the apartment, especially went he started to have problems with his son… Susanna accused him of having a mistress, because he didn’t want her to come to the apartment. She wasn’t that far off, he had a mistress; the Queen of his thoughts. It was his sanctuary and he didn’t want Susanna to see it. Susanna would’ve been less hurt to find him with another woman than to find a shrine devoted to Candy, the woman he will love forever… the one who was in his thoughts, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

But now, in his new house, with the Queen of his thoughts waiting for him, it was the only place in the world he wanted to be, he was living in paradise on earth. He got in the house and Candy was waiting for him at the entrance.

- Good evening, honey, she said smiling, and kissing him on the cheek

- Good evening my love, he said smiling

She took his coat and put it on a hanger. She took him by the hand and walked him to the living room. She took his blazer off and undid a few buttons from his shirt.

- You want an aperitif before dinner, honey? She asked

- No, I’m famished…

- Ok, hon, let’s go eat then…

They went to the dining room, holding each other

- Where are the kids? He asked

- They already had dinner, they’re doing their homework… it’s only the two of us tonight

- Oh… let’s eat then

They ate talking about their day and looking at each other with love. The staff, who worked at the Grandchester since the Susanna era, was surprised to see the change in their boss; he was now always smiling, and so in love with his wife. They had ears and they knew that their boss had married Susanna Marlowe for duty and obligations. The house was always sad…but since he married the one his heart loved, and they were living in the new house, with his son and her daughter, the house was always full of laughter joy, love. Terrence Grandchester had now everything to be happy before, except the woman he loved. Lamartine was right when he said; “You miss only one being and all is depopulated…” He had found his other half, the missing piece in his life and every body could feel it.

Came the time for dessert. They brought them both a covered plate. Candy opened hers and it was a fruit sherbet. Terry opened his, and he discovered the little pink baby boot and the little blue baby boot. He was wondering where his sherbet was, but baby boots…? He looked at his wife, and she smiled…Oh… he stood up from his chair, he took her by the hand, she stood up with letting go of each other’s eyes.

- Candy? Is it true? You’re having a baby? He asked softly

- Yes, my love, I’m going to have our baby…!

Terry screamed loud and held her up until his head was at Candy’s belly level, he kissed the belly and spin around with her laughing and yelling of joy. He screamed so loud that the kids came down to see what was going on, and the staff, curious too, did the same thing. They found them spinning, laughing and kissing…

- Mum, said Rosemonde, is everything ok?

The couple stopped kissing and cheering, they looked at their kids smiling.

- Yes, everything is fine, said Candy, I’m going to have a baby…

- Un bébé? Said Rosemonde in French, mais c’est merveilleux! (A baby? but that’s wonderful!)

She jumped to her mother’s neck, and her stepfather’s. Richard did the same thing. They were going to have a little brother or a little sister… Could they still be together?

- Wow, a baby, he said, I can’t wait to have a little brother or a little sister…

- …that you’re not going to kiss on the lips with your tongue? Said Terry teasing him

Rosemonde became bright as red and Candy burst out laughing.

- Euh… we can still be together, right? He asked worried

- Of course, said Candy, the baby I’m going to have will be linked by blood to the both of you…

- She’s going to be really your little sister, Richard, said Terry, don’t forget it!

- Terry, stop teasing the little one! Said Candy laughing

- Come on, Richard, let’s leave those two lovebirds celebrate their good news, said Rosemonde dragging Richard out of the room…

They went back to their room leaving their parents alone. Terry, who was at war when Susanna was expecting Richard, didn’t want to miss anything this time around. He was going to pamper the Queen of his thoughts. He talked to the baby in the belly everyday, like he was there. Candy was laughing but she let him do it, it made her happy, it made him happy. They had lost 20 years of their lives, 20 years! They now had the rest of their lives in front of them. Terry didn’t work too much, so he could spend more time with his family. They didn’t really need to work, both their fortunes reunited allowed them to live without working for the rest of their days, if they wanted to. Candy had gained a lot of weight during her pregnancy. The doctor told her she might have a multiple pregnancy. She was with Terry in the doctor’s office.

- A multiple pregnancy? Said Candy, oh but doctor, it’s a little risky, isn’t it?

- Yes, but with a lot of rest, everything is going to be fine, said the doctor

- When you say “multiple”, doctor, said Terry, what does it mean exactly?

- Multiple, means, 2, 3, 4…

- Oh… are you sure? Asked Terry

- In any case, I hear two heartbeats… but we will know for sure when the time comes…

- Two? Said Candy, oh my God, Terry…

- Or more, said Terry smiling, looks like the universe is trying to make up for our lost time…

- I’m sure of it! Said Candy laughing

Candy became literally a queen. She was doing nothing, expect eat, drink and sleep. She was a little bored, but she was thinking about her babies’ health first. Terry had taken some time off to take care of his wife. When the time came, Terry, Richard and Rosemonde were in the hospital’s waiting room.

- Why is it taking so long? Asked Rosemonde worried

- Because there’s more than one, said Terry

- More than one? Said Rosemonde, twins?

- Yes, said Terry, well we think so…

- Wow! Said Richard, after all the bad luck you had, you’re getting blessings…

The doctor arrived to tell them the news himself. Terry walked to him and he held his breath.

- So? Doctor? Said Terry

- Congratulations Mr. Grandchester

- So, what is it? Asked Rosemonde

- Follow me, said the doctor

They followed the doctor in Candy’s room and they found her sitting on the bed smiling.

- Freckles? Said Terry, so? What did we have?

- Terry, said Candy, come here my love… you too guys, come in…

They entered the room, and they looked around and they didn’t see any babies. The children went to stand near the bed, and Terry sent to sit on a chair near the head bed close to Candy. This last one, smiled, she took Terry and kiss him on the lips passionately.

- Mum, you want us to get out? Said Rosemonde

- Yes, said Richard, don’t mind us or anything!

Candy and Terry stopped and burst out laughing

- Thank you honey, said Candy to Terry, thank you with all my heart

- You’re very welcome, Freckles, but for what? Said Terry

- For this, said Candy showing the nurses coming in

The nurses came in; Terry got one baby, Rosemonde got another baby and Richard got one too!

- Three? Said Terry, three? Triplets?!

- Everybody, let me introduce you to my babies, said Candy

- Mum! This is wonderful! Said Rosemonde with tears in her eyes

- Oh Candy, said Richard, this is great!

- Rosemonde, you’ve got the girl, Terry and Richard, you have the boys, said Candy smiling

- Two boys, one girl, said Terry with tears in his eyes

He had children with his Freckles, his Miss Tarzan, the Queen of his thought, the woman he loved with all the fibers of his body, he had children with Candy his wife.

- Every good things come in three, said Rosemonde

- I was saying it earlier, said Richard, the universe is blessing you this time, blessing us, I mean

- Yes, Richard, the universe blessed us and it’s going to continue doing so for the rest of our lives, said Terry

- What are we going to call them? Asked Rosemonde without taking her eyes off her sister

- The girl’s name is Espérance (Hope) Eleonor, but we’re going to call her “Nellie” said Candy

- One of the boy’s name is Emmanuel, which means “God is with us” said Terry, and you can chose the name of the second one, said Terry to the kids

The kids looked at each other and they whispered for a while and finally Rosemonde said;

- Thank you mum, Terry, for letting us chose the name of our second brother. To stay in the Bible atmosphere, we chose to call him “Matthew”.

- Matthew, said Candy smiling, that’s great!

- Don’t worry mum, I’m going to help you the best way I can, we’re going to help you! Said Rosemonde

- I’m going to hire a nanny for each of them said Terry, so you can rest Candy, when you’re tired…

- Thank you honey. Thanks to all of you! Thank you God for our beautiful family! Said Candy closing her eyes

The beautiful family was going to continue to live in peace and harmony. Candy had another little girl, Gloria and another boy, Marc. Rosemonde and Richard finished high school. Rosemonde went to med school and Richard went to business school. They got married when Rosemonde became a doctor. Anthony and Elizabeth had hoped that they would’ve broken up in time, and have a fraternal relationship but it didn’t happen…they were more in love than ever. It was a little complicated to explain to their little brothers and sisters that their brother and sister were going to get married. It sounded weird to Candy and Terry’s ears too… their children were getting married to each other! Rosemonde had a baby boy, that she named Michael Durand Grandchester; he looked a lot like his late grandfather and name sake. For Candy and Terry, becoming grandparents, was the icing on the cake!

Life repeats itself constantly… Candice White Andrew and Terrence Graham Grandchester had met on the boat that was taking them, without them knowing, to the same destination, to a brand new life… That was over, with Eliza’s diabolical trap. Then there were the missed meeting in America, finally the big Romeo and Juliet premiere… that was over with the Susanna matter. Then came the war, the years of separation; they were both married to other people, they had their own family, and they thought it was going to be forever, but they both lost their spouses and that too, was over… Then came the May Festival in St. Paul College, 21 years later, with their children who were the mini replica of themselves. To meet again on the pretend Pony hill, where they were falling in love when they were young, was magic… The reconciliation, the wedding, the family, this time what was over was, the sadness, the tears, the regrets, the bad luck, for good…because now, even if it took them 21 years, Candy and Terry were living their lives like they wanted to, with their children, grandchildren, they were finally happy and calm. For them, life was a long calm river. The suffering, the desolation, the broken hearts and the rest of the bad luck of the world for them… now, it was over.

THE END