Lily Lawson's Blog: Lily's log, page 13
February 25, 2023
One small child
The shed was always thought to be creepy. Coming down Conway Hill meant either going into town or into the woods. There was a path that led only a short way in and that was the one Faye and Ethan often took when they didn’t have her car.
It was a romantic notion getting married on Conway Hill, then heading into town for a party. This was where they often came to discuss their plans, so it seemed natural to finalise everything between themselves there.
They were meandering down when they saw a girl alone in the woods running.
‘Help!’
‘What’s the matter?’ The child flung herself at Ethan.
‘He’s coming?’
‘Who?’
‘The man who took me?’
Faye had her phone out before the girl had finished speaking.
Ethan wrapped the shaking girl in his jacket hugging her to warm her.
***
‘Get off her. She’s mine.’
A man with a shotgun approached them.
‘Worth good money, pretty thing like that.’
‘She’s a child not a thing.’ Faye moved between them.
‘They like them innocent, pure.’
The man tried to knock Faye out of the way with his gun.
‘Sir you can tell us all about it at the station.’
The police cuffed him and put him in the car.’
‘Best get the child to the hospital get her checked out. I’ll get the parents to meet us there. You coming?’
‘Please.’ The child looked at Faye and Ethan.
‘Yes of course.’ They said together.
***
‘You know that year off we were planning?’ Faye’s fingers curled round Ethan’s.
‘Yes.’
‘I think we can help out here just as well as anywhere.’
‘It’s definitely worth exploring.’
‘That kid’s eyes, she trusted you, the shelter are always looking for people.’
‘You’ve signed us up, haven’t you?’
Faye kissed him.
‘I knew you’d understand.’
February 24, 2023
Lovers not fighters
‘What are you doing? Are you mad?’
‘It’s a butter knife not a deadly weapon.’
‘Will the Italian police see it that way? “Woman on Gondola with knife” doesn’t seem very happy touristy.’
Faye put the knife and the items she had taken from the buffet table in the hotel in her bag.
‘We’re on a budget. This helps.’
‘I’ll take you to Venice you said, I’m an independent woman taking her lover to Italy, it will be romantic, I fail to see the romance in being arrested.’
‘Don’t fuss, the gondolier is unlikely to search me.’
‘Fair point but wait till we find somewhere to eat lunch before you flash that thing around.’
‘Ok will do promise. As long as you kiss me on demand. You are my lover after all.’
‘I think I might manage that.’
Ethan kissed Faye – ‘That’s a freebie to seal the deal.’
February 23, 2023
Conway Hill
The little boy's idea of heaven was sitting on Conway Hill watching the life unfold in all directions before him.
It was a long time since Ethan had been a little boy, but he still loved Conway Hill.
On reaching the summit he spied the human he had loved almost as long.
Faye was pretending to ignore the fact he was in her eyeline. He knew by her face she had been thinking and wanted to talk.
‘Nice of you to come.’
‘Sorry I met Stan.’
Ethan kissed Faye.
‘Who’s Stan?’
‘The man who used to live next door to my grandmother.’
‘Ok’
‘The last time I saw him I was nine.’
‘A lot to talk about then?’
‘He told me then I had already met the love of my life.’
‘I see and who is this may I ask?’
Faye folded her arms.
‘You, of course.’
‘Um. Is that so?’
‘You know I love you, don’t you?’
‘Well, I’ve never been told.’
‘I do see us as being together till we’re old.’
‘Ethan McConville, are you saying what I think you’re saying?’
‘What do you think I’m saying?’
She hit his arm.
‘No, you don’t I’ve waited long enough for you to tell me anything, if this is what I think it is you have to say it.’
‘Faye Montgomery I love you, I’ve always loved you and I always will, Marry me.’
‘I think we better tell people we’re together first, don’t you?’
‘Well I’m not messing about, lets tell them now and see when the vicar can fit us in.’
‘What?’
‘There’s a lot to sort out, where will we live for a start I can’t keep sneaking you into my place?’
‘You can move in with me, the new place I’m moving to has plenty of room.’
‘What new place?’
‘I only looked this morning.’
‘When did you plan all this?’
‘On my way up Conway, it’s a very big hill.’
February 22, 2023
Three little words
Ethan met a man who told him that he had already met the love of his life. Being nine at the time, Ethan thought it unlikely. The conversation took route in his mind, and he would think about it after each failed relationship. He knew the man meant Faye.
‘Son, when I was your age, I met my future wife. Isabelle was the one for me. Fate, written in the stars, all that stuff if you believe in it. Not sure I do but she does. Anyway you’ve already met yours, she told me, asked me to tell you, thought it might be better coming from me, man to man like, she didn’t say who it was but I think you might know if you think about it, not that loves about thinking really, the old ticker makes it mind up and you’re sunk, yours will keep you right. Worked for us, been together longer than I care to remember. Wouldn’t have it any other way. Whoever she is don’t stuff it up.’
He hadn't seen the old man since.
***
Today he was meant to be meeting Faye. He was walking towards Conway Hill when he bumped into him.
‘I don’t know if you remember me.’
‘I do. You tell that girl you love her yet?’
‘Um, well, we are going out.’
‘That’s not what I asked lad.’
‘I’ve tried to show her.’
‘Let’s hope you’ve moved on from pushing her over, I don’t think that was working.’
Ethan laughed.
‘No, me neither. I buy her cards and presents.’
‘Yes, that is better, never seen you two together though.’
‘We’re keeping it secret.’
‘Is that her idea or yours?’
‘Both, I think.’
‘Is that what you want?’
‘It was. Keeping her to myself before everyone stirs it.’
‘Was?’
‘I have to tell her, don’t I?’
‘People need those three words spelling out to them once in a while.’
‘Where you meeting her?’
‘Conway Hill. I’m late actually.’
‘Well you get gone and tell that lass you love her, you hear? Cos if you don’t she might find someone who will.’
‘I can’t lose her.’
‘Then she needs to hear that too.’
‘I know you’re right.’
‘Then what you doing still gabbing to me lad, don’t keep the lass waiting.’
‘Thanks.’
February 21, 2023
Just between us
Where was Ethan? This meeting in secret locations so people didn’t know they were together had its downsides. Todays being waiting for him in a field.
When he arrived she was going to talk to him about telling people so they could be seen together. Maybe somewhere a damn sight warmer than the back of her car. Although they did manage to warm each other up.
Faye tried to recall when Ethan stopped being the boy who pushed her over and brought her sweets and became the man who made her insides go gooey.
He said he loved her even then. He had learnt better ways of expressing it, but it did take some time.
***
The teenage valentine’s cards he shoved through the letterbox.
‘Roses are red,
Violets are blue,
If I must have a girlfriend
I guess you will do.’
‘I like you.
You don’t like me.
I still want to kiss you.
We are meant to be.’
She had all of them in a shoebox under her bed with every letter he’d written her while they were apart.
She ignored them at the time – too busy with her studies, her friends and going out with boys she fancied but who were in the end boys rather than grownups. No-one lasted long.
When she saw Ethan again, she realised she’d been comparing them to him, and no-one matched up.
The years of people trying to push them together brought too much pressure to be the golden couple. They decided to be together in secret to see if it worked so they could save face if it didn’t and be each other’s one that got away.
Sitting on the bonnet of her car waiting for him she admitted to herself she saw a future with him. She was bursting to ask him if he agreed.
February 20, 2023
Playing the game
He opened the door to find her standing there, crying.
‘What’s happened?’
Faye’s small dark head looked at her father.
‘Ethan.’
‘Again? What did he do this time?’
Mark hugged his daughter.
‘We we’re playing football. He pushed me over to get the ball.’
Mark bit his lip.
‘Never mind, it will be ok, come and have some juice, I got some of that cake you like this morning.’
Faye rolled up her trousers to see what damage had been done to her legs from her latest land on the tarmac courtesy of Ethan.
‘I’ll get the first aid kit. Bit of magic cream will sort that.’
Faye returned her Father’s smile as he applied the cream to her knees.
‘That’s better already.’
‘Thanks Dad.’
There was a knock at the door.
Ethan stood on the doorstep with a bag of sweets.
‘Tell Faye I’m sorry.’
‘Come in Ethan.’
Ethan head down followed Mark to the kitchen.
Faye took the proffered sweets.
‘Thank you.’
‘Can I come knock for you tomorrow?’
‘Okay.’
***
The following day they were back playing football.
February 19, 2023
Jenn MacLeod Interview
Bio.
I was born and raised in southwestern Ontario, Canada. I earned a degree in 19th-century English & history with a focus on Great Britain. As a child, my favourite authors were Lucy Maud Montgomery and J.R.R. Tolkien. My interest in mystery authors began in early high school, but in university, I fell in love with the Romantics. If I’d had a son, I would have named him Blake (after William Blake). I was called to teaching from a young age, always desiring to help people. I earned a teaching degree and have been involved in the educational world for 21 years. I have taught every age, and everything from English Lit. to creative writing, history, social sciences, French, special education, and developmental education. I was even a guidance counsellor for a couple of years. I hope to retire in young(ish) so I can devote myself entirely to writing and editing.
How and when did you start writing?
I’ve been writing my whole life, from my earliest memories. I was an early reader, and a voracious one. The only time I ever remember getting ‘in trouble’ in school was when I wouldn’t hear the teacher say it was time to put silent reading books away and get out math textbooks! I wrote my first longer work around age 9 or 10. It was called The Jennings Family.
Once I got into university, I didn’t have time for creative writing; instead, I was researching and writing essays. Two degrees later, I got married. Once again, life took over and I didn’t write creatively for many years. I believe the absence of art made it more difficult to deal with life’s challenges. As soon as I divorced, I started writing. I wrote every day for about 4 years straight, until the pandemic shifted my routine once again.
Tell me about your books?
My debut novel was Abalone. I started writing the book in the early years of my marriage and then, forgot about it. After my divorce, I added 400 more pages to complete what I would describe as a fictional memoir that helped heal my soul.
A trip to Ireland inspired The Adventures of Lady Ellen Montagu trilogy. Many of the characters are historical figures; therefore, I did not have complete creative freedom, but I did base the story loosely around real events, and combined those with my own journey through the country, as well as my need for a little melodrama and romance at the time.
I believe by the time these works were completed, my spirit was much lighter. I wrote the first two romantic comedies, The Future Bride and The Past Love, to take a risk and branch out into a niche subgenre. These stories include a heroine with a black belt in karate, and many Scottish characters pulled directly from my research into my own family tree.
I have also written a work of science fiction that blends romantic suspense and teaching experience into a fast-paced read. A Moment in Time is intended to be a guilty pleasure.
If you could be a character in one of your books, who would you be and why?
I know that readers will expect me to say Brigid, because who wouldn’t want to end up with Ferghus? But my answer is Lily. She is my oldest protagonist, and we have the most in common. We have both experienced abuse, stalking, and addiction, and know how difficult and rewarding teaching can be. Lily’s story shows me that someone can go through absolute hell, and work to heal. Even when we think we are unworthy of love, we are more than enough.
What do you consider your biggest challenge?
My greatest challenge right now seems to be balancing numerous responsibilities with my own mental health and creative needs. I work full time, have three young children, and assist my mom now that my dad is gone.
What writing advice have you been given that really helped you?
I used to have an ‘all-or-nothing’ way of thinking about writing, but that is unhealthy. If I can’t write full time, or sit for hours upon end, I used to think I was failing. Now, I know that even researching a topic, or editing something, or marketing past novels is still engaging in the ‘craft’ of writing. If I write a sentence, it’s more than I had before. I need to celebrate small successes and not feel guilty for taking time for myself. Daydreaming is necessary, too.
What do you consider your greatest writing accomplishment?
I set a goal to try something different with each book or series. This meant taking large risks. For example, to branch out of realistic, new-adult fiction into historical romance, romantic comedy, and even a domestic thriller would normally sound intimidating, but I viewed it as an opportunity for growth. I am a complex person with various interests, skills, and strengths. Niche genres help me express these sides of myself.
What’s the best thing someone has said about your writing?
With Abalone, it was that they felt less alone after reading it. With my trilogy, it was that they could picture each setting in detail. With my Brigid adventures, it was how much they fell in love with Ferghus, as well as how all of the supporting characters were equally dynamic. Finally, with A Moment in Time, I had more than one person say they cried at the end because it had such a deep impact on them. These are all compliments that I cherish.
What do you want your readers to feel when they have closed the last page of your book?
I hope that readers will feel empowered and entertained. I want people to escape from the world for a time and get lost in my settings.
What would you do if you didn’t write?
This is not possible, because I am someone who craves writing to feel balanced.
What is your ultimate dream as a writer?
My greatest dream as a writer is to be financially secure enough to do this full time.
What are your current projects? What should we be looking out for?
Watch for The Once and Future Love, the third installment in my time-travel adventure series, this summer. Ferghus will get a taste of 21st-century Canada as he helps Brigid navigate karate classes, survival competitions, and time travel. Prepare to have your mind blown as most of the mystery is finally revealed!
Links: Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/J. - G. -
MacLeod/author/B07F25Z73T?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalE nabled=true
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jgmacleodauthor
Author Website:
Goodreads:
February 18, 2023
The things we do for love
‘Okay you got your stuff back can I go now?’ Aaron made for the door.
James got hold of his arm. ‘Can you sell it legit?’
Aaron rolled his eyes and shook James off.
‘I’ll go back to the dealer but you’re coming too or he’ll have me arrested.’
***
‘A little light on the stock bro?’
Aaron mooched around Steve’s shop. ‘Got that stuff AND the owner so you see I’m legit.’
‘Can’t be too careful in this game there’s bending and there’s breaking know what I’m saying?’
Steve picked each item up and examined it.
‘I get it, don’t stress. You have checked this stuff before.’
James stood arms folded.
‘Um when you’ve both finished can we concentrate please? I do have stuff to do even if you haven’t. James checked his watch.
‘Ok boss, keep it calm. This is James the owner.’
‘Great collection you’ve got. Will fetch a wedge, this is my offer.’
Steve put a handful of notes on the table.
Aaron knocked his arm.
Steve added more notes to the pile.
Aaron knocked him again.
‘OK but last offer.’ He added a few more.
James counted the notes.
Aaron picked a brooch off the shelf.
‘Sweeten the deal? I could be banged up if he’d reported me. Think his wife might like this.’
‘Iris would love it.’
‘Ok but you’re paying me for that.’
Aaron pulled some notes from his pocket and Steve took them.
‘Hey’
‘I could have gone down too with your antics.’
‘And you’re squeaky? You don’t ask questions and you’re glad of what you get.’
‘The less I know the better usually. I was tempted but I’m not going that shady.’
‘Guys can I go? Places to be. House to sell.’
‘You’re selling up?’
‘We’ve lived in this city forever. Iris and I are going travelling, that’s why I sold my stuff.’
Aaron put his arm round him.
‘Awww the things we do for love.’
February 17, 2023
Revenge
There was a rap at the door. Aaron was stood on the doorstep.
‘Can I come in?’
‘Ok what’s this about?’
‘I’ve been a prick.’
‘I’m not arguing.’
Aaron started carrying boxes from the car and bringing them into the house.
‘What the?’
‘I took them, tried to sell them.’
‘You’re giving them back?’
‘Dealer said that code you put on them made them traceable. So, you can call off the cops.’
‘You got all pally with me to nick my stuff? Now you want me to take back my report. You amaze me. What kind of person are you?’
‘Payback weren’t it’.
‘For what? What did I do to you?’
‘You hurt me?’
‘How?’
‘You crashed into me.’
‘When?’
‘A few month back on the roundabout.’
‘That was an accident, you were speeding, you’d gone before I even got out the car.’
‘I’d had a few, didn’t want the bill knowing.’
‘How bad were you hurt?’
‘My leg was a banged up, lost my place on the footy team.’
‘You’re a footballer?’
‘Top of the Sunday league we were. With me out of action for a stretch they lost the trophy.’
‘So, you found out who I was and nicked my stuff. Why not just tell me?’
‘Now come on Jamie boy where’s the fun in that?’
February 16, 2023
French Toast
James stood at the lake; the dawn mist cleared to reveal the sunrise. Images of his wife Iris ran through his head. Her waking and padding to the kitchen, meditating on the deck. Iris watching him as he made them breakfast. Their nightcaps watching the sun go down. He made his decision.
***
‘French toast? You’re in a good mood.’
‘Let’s go travelling.’
‘Can we afford it? ‘
‘If I sell my stuff and we write on the road. I think we’ll be ok.’
‘You’d do that?’
‘Yep. Losing it all, made me realise, its stuff that keeps us where we are and what matters is us.’
Iris kissed him.
‘That must have been some sunrise.’
‘It was. Come with me tomorrow.’
‘You know what I just might.’
