Detailed Roleplayers discussion
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McKensie and Lara III
Sada smiled lightly, believing him. "I think you'll be a wonderful father, regardless of how much you know about parenthood. You have the heart for it." She assured him, kissing his cheek. "And you… you know how birthing works, obviously, right? I don't want that to come as a surprise either…."Clara was completely relaxed by the time he finished painting, and she stood when he helped her up. She wrapped her arms around him, leaning her head against his chest. "I trust you." She whispered, fully realizing what he was asking. He would be her first, and this was so incredibly improper, but she trusted him.
The queen thought on that for a moment, her aged face turning contemplative. Then she smiled. "We'll see I suppose." Her eyes lit up as she turned to face her daughter. "Oh baby! Another one?" she asked, thrilled. "When did this lovely development come to be?"
Thomas looked away slightly ashamed "I've only um been in that area besides intercourse once, and that was...terrifying." He sighed "I don't know anything about babies or birthing except it has to come out..."Jackie woke up when Calder needing feeling she took the fussy boy trying to calm him "hush hush im trying to feed you but I can't if you keep crying..." She was panicking she had no idea what to do.
Jack helped her up and held her close getting her dress down as it was morning. He kissed her softly and pulled her to the easel "well, what do you think?" He asked hopefully a smile on his face he was pleased with it. Best work he has ever done.
Marcoux bounced little Ella as they arrived home "why don't you show mommy what you got at the store?" He put her down smiling at Illiana. He was the luckiest man on earth, he wanted to show her that tonight.
Lydia smiled "I took Don to the physican to measure for his hearing aide and the doctor examined me and im pregnant...it's just...I need to talk to you, I'm scared for James..." She showed her the burn on her arm "when he drinks he's not James...and he's been drinking more and more..."
Sada nodded slowly in thought, not judging or looking disappointed at all. "That's alright. I'll explain it to you now so you know what to expect. Basically my muscles will start to contract to push the child out, and the opening will take a while to stretch and expand, that will be painful. But once it is over, then I'll start pushing and the baby can start to slide out. After it has come, then the placentae comes out too." She shrugged. "And that was just about the simplest explanation I could think up."Sampson had been grabbing a snack and a drink for him, and also something to bring back in for Jackie, which he set on the side table. He sat beside her then, watching her with Calder. "Would it help if I held him while you fed him?" He suggested, just wanting to make things easier.
Clara thanked him for getting her dress, and she slipped it back on, tying her hair up in as neat of a knot as she could manage, smiling as he turned the painting around. My goodness did that look exactly like her… and did she always look so… so… bold? Clara blushed. "That is beautiful…" She breathed.
Ella ran up to her mother, holding out the doll they had purchased. "Look Mum! I have a baby to put in my carriage!" She beamed, hugging the doll to herself, as Iliana beamed and hugged them both. "She's beautiful!" She mouthed thank you to Marcoux from behind their daughter.
The queen smiled, thrilled for her daughter. "Well I can't wait to meet the little guy." Her expression turned thoughtful when Lydia explained James's situation. "So the royal life is catching up to him…" she said softly, nodding. "Well… don't forbid him from alcohol, trust me, it will only make him want it more." She said seriously. "Rather try to dilute his drink when you can, or offer something else. Something sweet, or rich. Coffee is a good alternative. Wean him off it and he won't notice it's gone. But it will take a great deal of patience, my girl, trust me, I know."
Thomas flushed embarrased as he slowly nodded "sounds like an incredible amount of work Sada...you are far much stronger then I could ever be." He kissed her forehead inhaling the smell of her hair "how can you not be scared?...im scared for you..."Jackie frowned "im not sure...I...Sada I need help!" She called out looking down at her boy helplessly as she tried to get him to drink "I don't know what to do I never knew my mom or any woman..."
Jack smiled squeezing her hand "yes you are..." He kissed her hand and caressed it against his face "better get you back to the palace the princess would not be pleased if she knew where you were..." He tucked the painting in his knapsack and smiled "our little secret..."
Marcoux smiled and let Ella run off to play tea party with her dolly, he smiled pulling her to him as he slipped the necklace around her neck a string of peach pearls as he kissed her "it was Ella's chouce..."
Lydia sighed deeply and nodded "im just scared...he got rough with me earlier and I cant risk the baby...I can take care of myself but...the baby is too fragile...he doesn't mean it he hates knowing he hurt me..."
Sada smiled lightly, leaning into his embrace. "I'll be ok. I'm sure I'll be ok." She said, trying to assure them both. "I am scared, I am, I'm just telling myself I'm not." She admitted, closing her eyes as she let out a soft sigh.She jerked up however, when she heard Jackie's distressed cry. She rushed in the room, relieved to see everyone ok. "Oh love, it's alright. It's easy to do after the first time." She helped guide the baby and shift her arms around him properly. "There you go..."
Clara nodded quickly, realizing just then how much trouble she would be in if anyone found out. But Jack seemed like an honest man, and she trusted him to keep the painting a secret. "Yes, we should get back." She repeated. She realized that she might look surprised or disgusted by what they had done, so she amended by kissing his cheek and smiling. "Thank you, for a marvellous outing."
Iliana blushed brightly, splaying her hands on his chest as she looked down at the pearls. "They're beautiful..." She whispered, looking up at him. "Did I do something to deserve such an extravagant gift?" She asked, touched and surprised by such a nice and expensive set of pearls. And the doll as well... It was south a sweet thing for their daughter.
The queen nodded slowly, sighing. "Yes, that does pose a problem. You'll have to be extra careful. Maybe I could give him a leave of absence until the child comes? That should reduce the stress and drinking. Just know it won't solve the issue, and children are vulnerable too if the problem persists."
Jackie sifhed in relief and leaned into Sampson as her son are, it was strange and a bit painful but she was glad he could get some food "I don't know what I would do without you Sada...you'll have absolutely no problem being a mom." Thomas watched amazed and cleared his throat realizing he was staring at his sister in laws breasts and looked somewhere else. "So how does it feel being a father Sam?"
Jack smiled and nuzzled her gently kissing her lips and nose "I love you Clara I have no shame for what we did, it was beautiful and right..." He helped her with her camera as they walked back to the carriage and drove back to the palace "when shall I see you again?"
Marcoux smiled tilting her chin up for a soft kiss and nuzzled her "for being an incredible mother and wife...plus I like to spoil my girls...and you seemed to old for dolls..." He chuckled taking her hand and lacing their fingers "it was good to see Lacey and Maxwell."
Lydia nodded "would you please? I don't want to over stress you but I must wean him off the alcohol before he ever does something he regrets to Donavon or the baby...I will protect my children no matter what..."
Sada's smile was light. "No problem. I'm here as a friend to help." She insisted. Then she rubbed her swollen stomach, shaking her head. "I don't know about that… watching it, and knowing what to do must be completely different than actually going through it. I'm not sure i could."Sampson smiled over at his older brother. "It's scary, and different… but a new adventure, and a wonderfully happy one as well. I think you'll enjoy it. When is Sada due?"
Clara's blush turned into something soft and innocent and she nodded. "I'm not ashamed either Jack. I'm glad you're persuasive enough to have made me feel comfortable about it." She said honestly. She walked up the steps to the palace and smiled. "I'll write as soon as I can. Maybe we can see each other again this weekend?"
Iliana smiled, closing her eyes as she leaned into his embrace. "Well the pearls were a wonderful choice. They certainly are beautiful." She said, fingering a few, and admiring how smooth they were. "How are they doing?" She inquired, wondering about their friends.
The queen nodded, clasping her hands gently between her own. "Yes, he's on leave effect of immediately." she insisted. "Remember, baby steps. Men do love their alcohol." she reminded, pecking her cheek. "Good luck love."
Jackie took her hand "you'll be great Sada...truly, I hopefully will beas good of a support as you were for me. I couldn't do it without you..." She squeezed it softly feeling her stomach "they'll be cousins..." She said in awe looking down at Calder.Thomas smiled and looked over at his wife talking happily with Jackie "in a few months...she still has some time, we need to purchase a house and get settled in before the baby comes. When are you getting back out on the sea?"
Jack smiled and nodded tipping his hat to her "I'll take you to your first photography class and we can develop some of those pictures." He kissed her once more before taking a glove "I think I'll keep this with me..."
Marcoux smiled leading her to the couch and sitting down "they look lovely on you my Illi...I think they are doing well, Lacey seems like she's a fish out of water though...awkward and distant makes me wonder what she saw go on...she won't talk about any of it even with Max..."
Lydia smiled and nodded kissing her cheek as she ran to find James "mother just gave you a leave of absence till the baby comes! Isn't that wondefful darling?...you can spend time with Donavon and hunt do things you love."
Sada bit her lip and nodded, hoping with al her heart that she was right. Carrying a child was already harder than it looked to be. She could only imagine what birthing one would be like. "Yes, they'll be cousins. And hopefully good friends." She agreed. Sampson nodded in understanding. "You have a bit of time to get settled then." he agreed, scratching his chin. "I think we were going to wait for the child's first year before getting to the sea again, as young babies are so susceptible to diseases…"
Clara nodded eagerly. "I look forwards to it." She said seriously, watching as he slid one of her gloves from her fingers. "You can have it." She agreed, smiling lightly. She blushed then and ran up the steps. "I really should go. Farewell for now!" She waved from the top step, beaming.
Iliana sat beside him and leaned her head on his shoulder, enjoying his company. "I felt that way… after my accident. trauma can do that to you." She said honestly. "She'll heal with time." Iliana would know where she was coming from too. She had been through trauma after all.
James looked up from his paper, and put down both his glass and the paper onto the table. "She's giving me leave?" he asked, frowning in confusion. "Whatever for? I thought she needed my help." he was instantly worried that he had done something wrong, and now the queen no longer wanted him helping, or ruling once she retired.
Jackie smiled tilting Calder so Sada could carry him on her shoulder. She smiled softly covering her baby up and watching her friend "see?...your a natural honey..." Her little man was fast asleep "what are you hoping it'll be?..."Thomas nodded "I would say even a bit later, until the boy can walk and manage on his own." He pat his shoulder "you can stay with us until you leave...I found a nice mansion that I want to show Sada...father actually found it.
Jack smiled and put his hat back on as he left going back to his hotel room and holding the glove to his face reveling in the scent and softness. He tucked the painting away never to be seen by anyone else. He got a call from his brother "Matthew what is it?"
Marcoux took her hand and kissed her forehead "indeed you have...im just glad you are ok...it was the scariest feeling of my entire life..." He admitted and watched Ella run around with the foxes and her doll.
Lydia took his arm "darling relax...its a blessing, a favor because the baby and you can spend time with Donavon...please darling she loves and respects you...alright?"
Sada smiled lightly, looking down at the small bundle she was holding. It was quite sweet, and much nicer than she expected. "He's such a sweet little boy…" she crooned, bouncing a little as she walked with him. "I'll honestly be happy with either. I like girls and boys for different reasons." She admitted. "I'm sure Thomas wants a boy, though."Sampson sighed softly, shaking his head. That long from the sea? he wasn't sure if he could manage. "Thanks." He said, glad however, for the offer of a place to say. "Is this new place old and in need of fixing?" He raised an eyebrow, knowing how Thomas liked to mend things. "Because a draughty house will not be good for mother or child."
His younger brother's tone was frantic, and clearly frightened. "Jack!" He exclaimed. "Oh thank goodness you answered… I've… I mean… we… well… we're out of money." he blurted quickly. "I'm so sorry! It must have been the university funds that sucked it dry, but with you gone at the war, and now visiting in England… we barely even have single pounds left, Jack. What will we do?"
Iliana nodded slowly, closing her eyes. She hated thinking about what had happened, and how that had turned out. "I'm glad it's over." She whispered, shaking her head. She let the silence draw on for a moment before she opened her eyes again. "It's getting late… I should tuck Ella into bed."
James sighed in relief and nodded, relaxing again. "I'll have to thank her." He mused, before turning to his love and smiling. "And I assume you had some part to play in it too." he kissed her cheek. "thank you, for whatever you did to earn me a break."
Jackie smiled watching her closely, she never felt such protectiveness and territorial of her little angel. She took him back and sighed patting his back carefully "I actually think I heard he said a wanted a little girl...I think a girl would be sweet. Or a boy either would be nice..."Thomas shrugged "It's intact, not a fixer upper but it'll be safe for your baby and Jackie...I will want to do projects but not until it's just me and Sada."
Jack swallowed "Alright I'll think of something, don't panic Matthew...I'll get the money...I'll be leaving to go home soon." he shook his head upset that it got to this. He had to steal the money, there was no other option. He went to the bank and stole just enough without getting caught, he knew Clara wouldn't approve.
Marcoux nodded "I think Meredith got her in a bath and tucked in, she really cares for the girl sweet lady." he kissed her head and nuzzled her "Cant you just stay a moment? We haven't been together for awhile..."
Lydia smiled and nodded "I'm going to your study if you need me. Donavon is in the library maybe you should go talk to him...get to know your son at this age..."
Sada smiled lightly. "Strange… that he would tell you and not me. I didn't think him one to be self-conscious of such topics." She shook her head. "I'll honestly be happy with either."Sampson nodded, squeezing his shoulder. "Thanks, for thinking of us… and honestly, if you want to work on the house while we're there, that's ok too. Just not where we're sleeping or the baby is, ok?" He winked.
Matthew nodded slowly, obviously stressed. "Please come home soon." He repeated softly, putting down the phone when his brother hung up.
Clara got the news the next day of a bank robbery, but of course, not knowing who had been the culprit, she just looked sadly at the ad, shook her head, and continued with her chores."
Iliana smiled softly then. "Oh she's so helpful. I'll have to remember to give her a raise. She's such a nice woman…" She blushed then. "I don't have any other engagements…" she kissed his lips. "I think I can afford the time." She smiled playfully.
James nodded, raking one hand through his disheveled hair. "Alright. Thanks love." he agreed, getting up and going to find Donavan. He smiled when he saw his son and he knelt by him, signing, 'How's my favourite boy?'
Jackie shook her head "I overheard him talking to Sampson he didn't tell me, we hardly talk." she assured and pat her belly "as long as it's healthy then I'll be happy afterall im it's only aunt I will spoil it as I expect you to spoil Calder."Thomas chuckled "sounds fine, really it'll be great just like a ship out of water...your son is handsone though that mark...do you think it will fade?"
Jack sighef writing a telegram to Clara telling her to meet him outside the palace. He packed up everything knowing he'd be leaving for Ireland soon. He had to say goodbye to her though it was the hardest thing he has ever done.
Marcoux picked her up bridal style and took her upstairs to their bedroom locking the door and leaving none thing but the pearls on.
Donavon looked up and grinned excited to see his father he hugged him tightly "you have time father? You have time to play?"
Sada nodded in understanding, rubbing her stomach as they talked. She laughed softly. "I promise that I most definitely will be spoiling Calder." she vowed. "And I'll appreciate you spoiling my kid as well." she smiled. "You did wonderfully, by the way. Was it all worth it?" she asked, wondering about birth.Sampson shook his head, his smile soft. "Yeah… the no water thing is exactly the difference between a ship and a house…" He grew more serious then. "I don't know. We'll love him regardless, even if it is permanent."
Clara got the telegram and smiled, changing into something nicer for seeing him. She and no idea why the change of plans so suddenly, but she was eager to see him again anyways. And hopefully many times after that as well. She waved when she saw him and ran up, hugging him immediately. "Hi!"
James smiled lightly and nodded, 'Yes, my boy, I do.' he signed. And he sat with Donavon and played the piano with him, getting his son to teach him some songs they could play together. He finished off the evening by helping him practice lip reading, and then tucked him into bed. Feeling exhausted, he headed to the library and plopped in his chair with a book and a bottle of scotch.
Jackie shook her head "it was very much worth it, he is my life and id die to make sure he is happy..." She admitted and kissed the little forehead "I just can't imagine my life without him, he's so perfect...and you'll love your little one just the same."Jack looked up mournfully and sighed holding her close to him as he kissed her head "Clara we need to talk...I have to leave on the 9:00 train back to Ireland...I had to see you before I left..."
Lydia had switched his scotch with Apple cider in fact all of the alcohol was switched or half of water. She was watching him from the fur rug "good day?..."
Sada nodded, glad to hear that at least. It made it better to know that her friend thought it was all worth it in the end. "I hope you're right." She agreed softly, watching her play with her daughter. Clara's happy smile diminished when he said they needed to talk, and then it disappeared all together. He was leaving!? So soon!? Clara looked up at him, close to tears. "Will I see you again?" She whispered, hurt that he was leaving already. Had she scared him off?
James looked up from his book, smiling lightly when he saw her. "It was nice having time off." He said honestly, taking another sip from his glass. He frowned at it and set it on the table, wondering why it tasted off. "How were you today, love?"
Jackie smiled and bounced her boy as she kissed his hair "it's worth it honey and I can't even remember the labor at all, the pain is a tiny blip in raising this little man...and you'll have so much support and love."Jack shook his head holding her "my brother said that we are out of money, I had to take some to even get home...I don't know when I'll be coming back...it breaks my heart leaving you Clara you are my love...my heart is yours."
Ludia smiled "I actually had a nap, it was marvelous I haven't slept in a while. And I spent some time with Emma and the girls...they are the sweetest little darlings!"
Sada smiled lightly, sitting beside her. "Thank you… you know just how to make me feel better." She watched her play with Calder. "It's so nice having you for a friend… especially with so many sailors around…" She shook her head. "It's nice to have a female someone to talk to."Clara tucked her head against his chest, hating that he had to leave. She missed him terribly already. And there was no promising he would ever come back. "Don't forget me." she whispered, her eyes filling with tears as she stepped back and looked up at him, memorizing his features. "And please… try to send telegrams or something." Her smile was weak. "We'll still keep in touch, right?"
James smiled, setting his book down. "Lovely! I'm glad you had such a relaxing afternoon. I learned some piano songs, with Donavon's help, of course… and he really is getting quite good at lip reading." he said honestly, trying another drink from his glass. "I'm going to have to see the cook about this scotch… it's absolutely ghastly." he murmured to himself.
Jackie nodded her agreemebt pecking her cheek and squeezing her hand "I would not know what to do with myself without you Sada, you were my best support and convinced me that it's ok to have a feminine side. Men like it better when you do..."Jack sighed "Clara...I could never forget you...you were my first...but I must go before the police find out anymore information on the robbery, I had no choice we are going to lose the farm...everythinh..."
Lydia friwned "darling you picked this bottle yourself, said you couldn't leave sonething this important to the cooks...shall I get another one? Maybe you are just disliking the taste now...it happens."
Sada smiled, her face scrunched with emotion. "I hope we stay such good friends for a very very long time." She said seriously. "And I'd… I'd like you're help when the time comes with the child. I'm sure I'll panic and forget everything." She admitted. Clara was completely tense, and she was trying to forget that he had stolen, and that there were police after him. It was better to just not think of it. "I'm so sorry. I'd offer you all my money… but I have none. I'm sorry. I hope you manage to find fortune somehow, and can find your way back to me. Until then…" She kissed his cheek. "That is for luck."
James sighed heavily, rubbing his temples. "No, no, don't trouble yourself with it dear. I'll be fine without a glass tonight. I just swear it tastes different." he shook his head, confused. Not wanting to be troubled when it was such a happy occasion, he looked up again. "Can I challenge you to a game of chips?" he raised an eyebrow, gesturing to the painted board they had crafted for the game that they had invented.
Thomas came back into the room "Sada darling do you want to come see the new house while Jackie and Sampson get some rest. They are exhausted honey..." He kissed her cheek helping he up "im excited to show you our new place."Jack shook his head "I wouldn't accept it anyways...I couldnt, you need your money for your life. And I will come back for you And marry you darling I promise." He kissed her deeply and let her go "I love you honey..."
Lydia smiled and nodded "but of course! We haven't played for so long..." He usually drank and then passed out they didn't spend much time together.
Sada looked up as Thomas entered and she smiled sheepishly, not having meant to keep them up. "Oh of course!" she pulled herself slowly to her feet under the weight of the child and smiled "I can't wait to go see the new place."Clara was having a very hard time not crying, but she didn't want to cry in front of him, so she put on a brave face and smiled lightly, stepping back with the feeling of his kiss still on her lips. "I love you too. I'll see you soon." She said bravely, waving from the top step as she watched him go. She had no idea how she was going to survive.
James grinned, pulling over the board and setting out the chips. "I bet I'll beat you every round love…" he challenged, grinning. "What's the wager?" looked through his pieces. He had some good pairs, and even one triplet.
Thomas helped her into the carriage as they drove to the town house and he helped her out "welcome to your new home." It was decorated with her fancy scarves and beads to make it look like a gypsy caravan. "do you like it?"Jack dried his tears as he ran to her once more and kissed her deeply, he laid the medal in her hand from the war "keep this safe...im going to need that back..." He left quickly and found Mstthew at the train station "we have to leave soon."
Lydia smirked "you owe me much money, I think you can't wager much more."
Sada rode with nervous anticipation to the house, and when she stepped out, she gasped and placed a hand over her mouth in shock and admiration. It was the most wonderful thing she had ever seen. A permanent home with all the charms and whimsy that she was used to back in her caravan. She flung herself on Thomas, hugging him tightly. "it's so perfect!"Clara really couldn't keep from crying then as she stared down at the medal in her palm… a promise. She knew immediately that she would cherish it more than any of her other possessions, and she waved, clutching it to herself as he left.
Matthew expression visibly relaxed as he spotted his brother approaching. "Thank you, for coming… the boarding school said I can't attend next month until the debts are payed." he said honestly, shaking his head. "But less talk of dreary subjects. Who was that girl?" he raised an eyebrow.
James laughed then, shaking his head. He was confident he could win with his chips if he played them right. "Ok. So money isn't a worthy prize… how about… gifts? be they words, or acts of service, or secret notes, or hidden knickknacks?" he offered.
Thomas spun her around and smiled carrying her through the threshold and to their bed room "there isn't much furniture but I thought a woman's touch would be better...oh and uh I found a kitten living here she doesn't want to leave." He held up the calico kitten sleeping on the pillow.Jack sighed handing him the money "go back to school, I'll go home and earn more money for you and take care of the farm...just earn your teaching degree you deserve it alright?..."
Lydia smiled lightly "Mmm if I win you sing that song to me every night before sleep...and little secret poems in meat like when we were dating...if you win I make all of your favorite meals and deserts also leaving secret notes in the meat."
Sada was smiling like a child just given a block of chocolate. And she laughed, a true, joyous laugh. "I can think of a few pieces of furniture that would look nice in here." She agreed. "But love… you've done a wonderful job already…." Her heart melted at the sight of the kitten and a gasp escaped her lips. "Oh…" She breathed, cradling the small scrap of fur. "it's so precious…" She said, petting the small thing. Matthew shook his head in surprise and delight. "Wow… already? Where did you get it all?" he beamed at him. "Thank you brother!" He boarded the train with him. "I don't know what I'd do without you… are you sure you're ok on the farm alone?" he asked, worried.
James laughed then, scratching his chin as he thought about that. "You want me to sing… hmmm?" he shook his head, his eyes twinkling. "Alright." he agreed, holding out his hand to shake. He almost forgot how much he was missing his drink.
Thomas smiled and watched the kitten yawn and snuggle close to Sada. "I supposw that means we are keeping her?" He kissed her hair and rubbed her stomach "our little family...in our big house..."Jack sighed and nodded "I'll be fine...just take care of yourself, make sure you get good grades and make me proud alright?" He insusted and opened up his notebook handing him the manuscript to his novel "get this published for me please...don't give a name just...try and get his published..."
Lydia kissed him deeply as she sat back and waited for him to play, she had two triplets and a straight so she was feeling pretty confident.
Sada smiled, finding comfort in holding the small creature. She felt important, like she mattered to so many people, to her love, and the small being in her arms. "Yes, we're keeping her…" She whispered, leaning her head back against him. "Baby will be coming soon. Wonder what they'll think of the place… of us…" She mused. Matthew nodded, smiling his thanks. "I promise." he vowed, one hand over his heart. Then he peered in interest at the manuscript, a grin splitting his features. "You're finally getting it published!?" He slid the papers into his bag. "Oh that's wonderful! I'll let you know the moment I have any responses." he vowed. They talked the rest of the trip and then Matthew was waving this goodbyes at the station.
Back at the farm, a banker was waiting for Jack, tapping his foot. He had come to collect the due payments on the farm, or to proclaim them as bankrupt.
James grinned at her, looking over his chips. He selected a mediocre play to start with, placing down two butterfly tiles. "Your play." He said casually, keeping his face straight to keep his hand hidden.
Thomas smiled ruffling the fur of the little squishy furball, he chuckled as she sniffed and licked his hand playfully "well it looks like she likes us just fine...and im sure the baby will too, it knows our voices and it knows it's mama and loves her dearly."Jack arrived and swallowed going up to the banker "I heard about the...debt, I didn't know it had gotten so bad...I have 1,000 for the payment today but that's it..." Why had he not kept track of this? Why did he put it off? "I'll sell things to get some money you just have to give me more time..."
Lydia bit her lip knowing that he played small the first hand and two butterflies wasn't the most insignificant amount. She played a rook bird and two swallows.
Sada smiled, watching him play with the scruffy ball of fur which seemed content to lick his fingers. "We should fetch it some milk. It might be hungry." She mused. She looked down at her stomach and smiled. "I hope you're right." She rubbed her stomach, finding it harder and harder to get comfortable with such a weight on her front. "I can't wait to meet you…" She whispered. The banker didn't look like a kind man. He had deep frown lines, and his constant tapping showed he was clearly agitated, and wanting to move on. He was a man on a tight schedule. "That's what they all say." he grumbled, writing something down. "I'll accept the $,1000 now, but the bank can not wait for their money…" he said seriously. "You have until I return at the end of the week to gather the rest of the money. Or you lose the farm."
James watched her play, and watched her carefully for any tells, before placing down another two tiles. White and speckled eggs. His play was lower, but because of her previous play, and their relation, he got double the points for his chips.
Thomas had her lay down as he rubbed her belly "think I have some fish for her." He pecked her lips tenderly and went to the fridge and pulled out a can of tuna and fed the little kitty rubbing the scruff "do you like that?...huh?" He spothed.Jack quickly grabbed all of the money he could find and paid the banker, he shook his head sobbing as he left as he gathered all of his mom's jewelery and clothing to sell. He couldn't allow the farm to leave the family. He had barely any food left, he had to do something...
Lydia smiled lightly "I remember sitting and painting these...before Donavon came..." She rubbed her belly "I think it's a girl...wouldn't that be lovely?" She played a rose and a daisy before connecting the pieces "the butterflies flitter to the flowers which means..." She lay down the rest of her chips "I have over 500 points."
Sada watched him with the small cat, who immediately started purring like the hum of a car motor as she pawed at the tuna, and then started gobbling it up. "Greedy little kitty…" She laughed, shaking her head as the small thing seemed to inhale it all at a crazy rate. "Poor thing must have been hungry."People came to visit the farm, as they heard he was selling out as much as he could. And taking pity on him, many of the farmers paid more than they should have for some of his things. But at the end of the day, it was still not enough. One collector came to the house to look at some of his paintings. He uncovered one under a tarp and immediately was captivated by it. "How much for this painting of the girl?" he asked.
James's smile was light, but he was feeling a little sick. His body wasn't used to not having alcohol, and it was protesting. "Yes, I remember that as well. You're such a talented artist." he said, laying down his chips. "And it would seem that you have won." he kissed her lightly. "Now I get to sing you to sleep?"
Thomas nodded and smiled "little scamp...she steals like a pirate." He chuckled picking up the cat by his scruff and letting her pad around on his chest playing with the pendent around his neck. "See? Even likes treasure!"Jack looked up, he was sickly cancer but he hadn't gone to a doctor. He ran a hand through his hair "I...it's not for sale...it wasn't supposed to be out..." He admitted and cocered Clara's body again "I have other sketches of woman more detailed and graphic if you are interested..."
Lydia shook her head "I want something else..." She tugged him to the bed grinning "just because I'm a princess...doesn't mean I'm always proper...you need some love..."
Sada laughed softly, shaking her head as she watched the comical ball of fluff toddle around and swat at Thomas's pendent. "Quite the little rascal." She agreed, watching it play. "We could call her Patch…" she offered, as the thing's coat was quite patchy, and it was a pirate… so why not?The collector was quite disappointed when he said it wasn't for sale. He was entranced by that image, by the emotion in it, in the soft colours, and sincerity. In the nervousness and yet boldness in the girl's gaze. "I'll pay you four thousand for it." he blurted. He was a rich man, and had money to spend, and while four thousand was an outrageous price for any painting, he was a collector, and he wanted that painting, no matter the cost.
James's smile was soft and playful as she pulled him into the bedroom. "I can roll with that…." he said, pulling her closer as he kissed her passionately. He was already tired though, his body protesting, wanting drink. But he ignored it, not wanting to break the moment just to go searching for a glass. "I love you…" He whispered, kissing her.
Thomas smiled "I like that...little Patch..." He lay her on Sada's stomach and the kitty settled down and curled up falling asleep immediately. He kissed Sada's cheek "looks like the scamp likes you best Sad'a...cone on we should get some sleep as well especially you...we don't know the exact day the baby is supposed to come..."Jack felt tears in his eyes as he slowly nodded it would be beyond foolish to refuse a price like that when he had nothing. But this was his Clara he didn't know if he'd ever see her again "please care for it...it is my soul..." He admitted wrapping it up in the tissue paper carefully. He was shaking being so sick a true starving artist the cancer taking over his body slowly.
Lydia smiled lightly and kissed him with the same passion holding him close as they pleasured eachother until dawn. She fell asleep on his chest never feeling so safe, they had been sleeping in seperate beds because he was up drinking and working...
Sada was already nodding off as the warm little kitten curled on her stomach and fell asleep. She leaned her head on Thomas's shoulder and yawned deeply, letting her eyes close. "Goodnight love." She whispered, too tired to move or change or do anything at all really as she drifted off and fell asleep.The collector beamed, handing him the money and carrying the painting out to his carriage. He shook Jacks hand then, his smile bright. "Use some of that money for a doctor, man. Theres more than enough there to cure you," he advised, before tipping his hat and taking his leave.
He did not sell the paintings again, but it became very famous as he took it on tours and shows.
Clara had been a nervous wreck back at the palace, waiting and watching everyday, hoping Jack would return. But he never did. And when she received news of the painting through a maid, she burst into tears, Jack had sold her painting, had ruined her reputation... Scorned her love, he wasn't coming back. And Clara had to leave the palace, and her only salary behind when the gossip got to much. the only place that would hire her was a dingy tavern where the maids helping serve the ale were made to dress in skimpy uniforms and offer their services to patrons.
A note was sent to Lacey, notifying her that her former Comrade in arms was deathly ill, and without medical help,
James was feeling quite sick by the time morning came and he had to rush to the bathroom to throw up, before wobbling back into bed, looking pitiful and clearly weaker. His body was trying to cope with the sudden changes, and the transition would be rough on him.
Lacey covered her mouth crying as she received the notice and went to Maxwell handing him the notice "it's Jack...we have to do something, please he saved my life multiple times..." She sent a telegram to Clara telling her to meet her at her home knowing she would want to know. She thought the painting to be romantic not scandalous!Jack paid off the banker and had a mere thousand to his name again. But the debt collectors would never be coming around again it was paid in full. He wrote a shaky letter to his brother explaining that everything was alright now, to move on to his career and use the farm to raise his future family." He tried to write a letter to Clara but nothing came out right and he gave up laying on his bed trying to find comfort in the warmth.
Lydia wax doing her own share of throwing up, she hugged him when he came out "are you alright? I'll get some warm tea for you..." She made the tea and added some Englush myffins on the plate serving it to him hersekf.
Maxwell read over the note slowly and shook his head, not quite sure what they were going to do about that. "We can give him some money." he suggested. "Arrange for some of the top doctors to see to him, I'm sure he could get better if its caught soon enough." He offered. Clara got the note, and while she really didn't want to see anyone, not after how much her life had fallen apart, she agreed to the meeting. She didn't have any other dresses beyond the ones given by the tavern, that were completely low cut and revealing, 'befitting of her new status' as so many people told her. So she couldn't change into something appropriate. But she did wrap a shawl tightly around herself to hide the dress as best as she could as she walked up to Lacey's place and knocked on the door.
Matthew got the letter and smiled lightly to himself, moved nearly to tears by the generosity of his brother who was always looking out for him. He wrote back his thanks and huge appreciation, expressing his respect and how much he valued his brother, closing with the proper well wishings. He sent it off, and went back to schooling, determined to graduate with good grades.
James grimaced and shook his head a little. "Fine." he said, trying to convince himself of that as well. Food sounded horrible at the moment, as his stomach was protesting so violently that he knew he probably wouldn't be able to keep anything down. "I just need a drink, is all." he mumbled, looking her over in worry. "Are you alright love?" He asked.
Lacey embraced her like a dear lost friend and ushered her inside "that dress is far too...revealing fit this kind of weather." It was beginning to snow as winter does, she ushered Clara into the bedroom and had her try on some of her old dresses. Once she was satisfied she couldn't catch her death she sat her down on the bed "Clara...I received a letter about Jack...he's fetally Ill and has no money to his name...Max and I are heading to Ireland to get him to the best doctors...but I think he would like to see you most of all..."Jack couldn't stay warm in the farmhouse, he was chilled to the bone coughing up blood and closing his eyes wishing the sickness would just take him. He clenched the silk glove to his face imagining that it still smelt like his Clara...she probably moved on, became a famous photographer tired of waiting for him...
Lydia had him sip the tea "it has properties to calm an upset stomach darling...see? Isn't that better?...it worked wonders with Donavon..." She pushed his hair back and kissed him softly "im worried about you..."
Clara was shocked by Lacey's generosity in giving her one of her dresses, and she was beyond touched. It was such a large gift to her, as now she had something she could wear that would give her a scrap of dignity when she wasn't working at the tavern. She sat down with Lacey, feeling much more lighthearted, but the second Jack's name was mention, all joy turned cold, and she seemed to shrivel in on herself. She wanted to murder that man for the way he had played her and earned money from her demise, and yet each night she cried for loneliness, and the love she lost. "Im afraid I can't get away from work." She said simply, not feeling close enough to Lacey as a friend to tell her her true reasons, even if it was true that she needed to work. "Please send him my condolences. And…" She pulled out his medal which she had tucked in her pocket. "Please give him this. He had said he wanted it back, and I'm afraid I won't be able to return it myself." She placed it in Lacey's hand. A doctor arrived at the house, searching for Jack. When he found him sick in the cold farm house, he tsked and got right to work on lighting a fire. "The collector who was here earlier sent me to care for you." he explained simply once there was a roaring fire in the hearth. "I'm to care for you until you are well. And you can't argue out of this. It's already been paid for." he got out some of his medicines he had brought with him, as he suspected that it was actually a lung infection he was suffering from. Lethal if not treated in time, but he figured with a little work, and a miracle, it could happen. "Drink this." he insisted, handing him a warmed mug of tea that had some medicine mixed in.
James obviously wasn't going to refuse his wife, so he forced himself to swallow a few small sips for her, hoping to heaven his stomach would accept it and he wouldn't need to rush to the bathroom again. "It's staying down so far." he admitted. "I hope that means it's helping." he closed his eyes as she pushed his hair back, just resting. "No need to be worried for me love. I'm fine." he said, even though he knew it was a lie.
Lacey refused to take it handing it back to her "a man came to talk to me about Jack...the man that was showing off your painting...he said the man refused to give it to him, he was deathly pale and frail working to the bone and selling everything he had to keep the farm and maybe some bread...he said he had to offer 4,000 dollars to even get him to consider...but Jack was crushed and begged him to care for it because it was his soul..." She got up and moved near the fireplace revealing the painting and giving it to her "I had to pay a hefty price but it belongs to you...no one else should have seen it..."Jack coughed up blood shaking as the doctor came in, he was too weak to protest as the doctor had to lift his head to get him to drink the warm tea. He shuddered at the warmth in his frigid body his dry tongue shocked by the sudden liquid he nearly wheezed it back up but kept it down.
Lydia sighed "you can't lie to me Jamison...I know you are ill...I've already contacted a doctor...stop being so stubborn it's unbecoming and im trying to help..." She felt the guilt since she knew it was her fault in the first place.
Clara found herself overwhelmed with emotion at the story. To the point that tears were falling down her cheeks by the end, and her shoulders were shaking with quiet sobs. She didn't know what to think. On one hand… he had sold the painting, and her life was now in tatters because of it, and she would probably never see him again. She had to stay here and work, and she didn't know if she wanted to see him again, she was angry and ashamed, and broken. And on the other hand, a part of her cracked and shattered at the knowledge that he might have still loved her. That he tried to keep the painting, that he was sick. She covered up the image again and held the wrapped canvass against herself like it was a blanket she was cradling, or something fragile. "Thank you." she whispered hoarsely. "I'll still not be going to Ireland. But please know that this means a lot to me. And tell Jack thank you." She whispered, tucking his medal back in her pocket. She would keep it, if only as a memory, of something good that was lost. She knew she was no longer the same woman, and that that part of her life was over. The doctor helped him with the tea until the cup was over half empty and then he smiled in satisfaction, moving him closer to the fire and wrapping blankets around him. "There you go… that's it." He encouraged. "We'll have you bert in no time." he began to whistle cheerily as he went to the kitchen to fix up some food to try feeding him. "You don't worry about a thing." He called from the kitchen, as a pot started to bubble on the stove.
James sighed softly, knowing she was right. Of course she would see through what he said. He just didn't like her worrying. "I know you have good intentions, love." he assured. "I'm just stubborn naturally, and I don't like to be made a fuss over. I don't like you worrying." He said honestly, wincing as his stomach turned over again. Where was his blasted drink? And why was there none in the house all of a sudden?
Lacey had to find a way to get her and Jack to see eachother, she'd never forgive herself if he had died and she didn't know how much he loved her. She dug in her purse "I need a nanny for Eloise when we go and im not leaving her in England I'll pay you $200 dollars a day to watch over her and play with her...does that seem fair? I'm willing to pay more." She said sincerely knowing true love didn't have a cost.Jack was barely coherent as the doctor cared for him and moved him closer to the fire...he didn't want to live knowing he couldn't see Clara again and get the painting back...yes he had other things to live for but what use of them without love...he slowly sipped the soup the doctor fed him feeling warmth again as he coughed up more blood resting in the arm chair near the fire.
Lydia sighed and nodded not knowing what else to do. She couldn't give him a drink, she couldn't risk him becoming an alcoholic and hurting her or the baby. She pressed her lips to his forehead "get some rest...I'll talk to the doctor..."
Clara swallowed, knowing money like that wasn't something she could just pass up on. But that was also very dangerously close to where Jack was… and it would be harder to avoid him when she was working there. She'd rather not see him at all, then to have to face him and see the look on his face when he discovered what had happened to her. She'd have to explain why she no longer believed in love, and she didn't want to break his heart, just as hers had been broken. But she felt capable in her abilities to avoid people, and the pay wasn't something she could turn down. "Alright." She said softly, standing and heading for the door. "I'll be here in the morning with my things packed." She agreed. "Thank you, for telling me all this, and I'll see you tomorrow." She said, taking her leave and returning to the tavern. She had to risk the wrath of the inn keeper as she explained where she was going for the week, but he seemed satisfied with her promise for return and his anger didn't turn to blows this time as he wished her a nice trip. The doctor watched him carefully as he ate, making sure he got a good amount of soup in his stomach, and talking the whole time to keep him comfortable, and try to raise the spirits, even if he got no responses. "Your friends are coming to visit." he said finally, giving him a soft smile once he was satisfied that he had enough food and drink in his system, and was taking the medicine well. "You want to get better so you can greet them properly. They're worried sick."
James nodded slightly, wanting nothing more than to just rest for a bit, he was so tired. "Thank you." he whispered, letting himself drift off.
He was still asleep when the doctor came, and he was tired enough that he stayed asleep while the doctor examined him. He smiled sadly at Lydia once it was over. "His system is so used to alcohol that it has been relying heavily on it. It's going to be a rocky transition off it again, and I suggest you make sure he eats and drinks as much as possible, and gets enough fresh air and exercise. A healthy lifestyle will help his body cope and get used to being off alcohol again."
Lacey sighed tirefly as she explained to Maxwell the conversation "she wants nothing to do with him Max...I know her reputation was tarnished but he had no other choice...I don't know how this is going to work but they have to see eachother he won't care to see us when he hears she's in the country but refuses to see him...it'll kill him."Jack shuddered again as he tried to get a breath of air in but kept coughing as the doctor cleaned the blood off of his mouth and chest, he gave a slow nod to show he had heard him but couldn't do much else he just clenched the glove to his chest closing his eyes and dreaming of that night in the barn...
Lydia nodded in understanding and rubbed her stomach feeling unsettling pains but this was no time to worry about herself when she had to care for her husband "thank you doctor...I'll get him outside when he wakes up...he loves to walk the dogs, is there not any medicine you can give him to make it easier on him?"
Maxwell looked up when she returned and he hugged her gently, "Hey… you did a huge thing by just convincing her to come along." He insisted. "She's a sensitive soul, Lacey, you've always known that. That's why you thought she'd be good for Jack. For a girl like that, that sort of ridicule would probably feel like the end of the world." he said softly. "I'm sure it will get better with time. If you don't tell Jack that she doesn't want to see him, and you schedule a visit when Clara knows nothing of it, then the two will have to at least talk, and that's all we can do."While Jack was sleeping, the doctor took the opportunity to clear as much fluid and blood out of his lungs as he could, his suspicions confirmed when he saw how filled his lungs had become. "Well that should make it easier to breathe…" he said, patting the man's shoulder once he had finished. He made sure he was comfortable, before resting at last in a chair by the fire, so he could doze and watch his patient through the night.
The doctor nodded, waving his hand lightly. "Don't mention it." He insisted. "I have already given him something to help," he held out a small bottle. "You can mix this in with his food once a day." he smiled lightly then. "And dear, are you sure you're ok? You're quite far along… and I couldn't help but notice that you look uncomfortable…"
Lacey nodded and buried her face in his neck and just held him close feeling relief and comfort being in his arms. She kissed him and nodded "I suppose that will be best...it'll be nice to see him nonetheless he's like a brother to me...and this plan makes it that Eloise will come and that's a blessing as well."Jack woke up the next day and felt better, really his chest wasn't as painful and he could breathe without wheezing, still coughed up blood but it was a process. He gave a smile to the doctor "young...to be..a doctor...aren't you?..." He slowly spoke his voice hoarse still and it caused a coughing attack after but he was trying he wanted to get better.
Lydia swallowed looking down at her stomach "just some slight pains...nothing much...I don't feel her moving around as much either..." She said softly her stressed face full of fear as well.
Maxwell nodded, "Exactly." He agreed. "And Eloise will love Ireland." He insisted. "But for now, love, let's rest, as we have a big journey tomorrow…" he insisted, heading to bed with her. Early the next morning, Clara was there waiting at the door with a small bag of belongings and things she may need, and the dress Lacey had given her on. She knocked on the door and waiting patiently for an answer.
The doctor looked up from the food he was preparing and smiled lightly. "Yes, I suppose." he agreed, bringing over some sound and placing it in his hands. "Drink as much of this as you can. I cleared some of the fluid from your lungs, are you feeling better today?" He asked, sitting by him. "You can call me Dr. Balt if you wish." He added, knowing that first name basis wasn't something between a doctor and patient, but knowing some name was more friendly than just 'doctor'.
The doctor frowned and he assisted her to a nearby bed. "Still, I'd like to have a look, if that's ok with you?" He asked gently, "Just to confirm that everything is normal." he added, worried about her descriptions.
((stillborn?))
Hours later Jack had finished and smiled helping her up and holding her close not being able to resist any longer "let's wait for the paint to dry...I know something we can do to pass the time..."
Lydia smiled lightly "after retirement are you going to marry him? I think he's wondetful and he treats you well...your going to be a grandma again so that will make things dlightly more stressful but James manages..."