Home » The Archives » Chapter 6 » Celebrations and Challenges
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1455 is a reply to message #1454] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:02   |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Saturday, May 5, 2068, 7:30 p.m., Cody, Wyoming
"I think I need this walk," Jeff said as he and Dianne walked slowly down the open area of the mall they were visiting. "That barbeque place was too filling."
"Oh, you've got that right," Dianne replied with a small groan. "I couldn't eat another bite."
"It was nice of your mother to take the boys off to find the arcade. It will make keeping track of Cherie and the girls a whole lot easier."
"Yes, and they'll think they're getting special treatment, too." She glanced around at the stores and the people who were walking by, pretty much ignoring them. "Nice not to be under the fisheye lens for a change. New York is always so... attuned to our comings and goings."
"Ned Cook isn't helping the situation there, either. I hear he's been pestering the public relations department for more 'updates'," Jeff said with disgust. "I hope he leaves us alone during our trip to New Hampshire."
"So do I," Dianne agreed fervently. She linked arms with him. "I wonder how long it will take for Cherie to spend that gift card you gave her?"
"Not long, I suppose," Jeff said with a shrug. "I just hope she buys some things for her friends as well as for herself."
"I don't think that's going to be a problem," Dianne replied, giving him a nudge. "Take a look."
The six girls were coming towards them, giggling and laughing together. They were all wearing new, matching jeans and shirts that, although differently colored, were similar in style. Each of the shirts had something different emblazoned across the chest. Erika's shirt was lavender, and read, "Cute, But Dangerous". Bonnie's was red, and said, "Spicy Hot!" Ellen had on a pink one that said, "Pretty Sassy". Maggie's was green and had the words, "Lucky Lady". Lorena's was yellow and said, "Sunshine Girl". And Cherie's was a royal blue with the word, "Princess", picked out in silvery lettering.
Jeff and Dianne looked at each other and chuckled together, then Dianne sighed. "Sometimes I wish we lived like normal, average people," she murmured. "It's hard on the kids to be so far from their friends."
"I know, love," her husband said quietly as he moved his arm to around her waist and drew her close. "But even if we didn't have the 'family business', we'd still have... the other family business, and it would affect how we lived." He kissed her on the head, his nose buried in her short waves. "We could still send her back to Greenville for school, you know."
Dianne sighed, leaning her head on his shoulder. "Yes, I know. But then... I'd miss her."
"And so would I. I've just barely begun to really get to know my daughter. I don't want to let her go so soon."
By this time the girls had gotten near. "Well?" Cherie asked, turning around with her arms held out. "What do you think?"
"I think you girls look great," Jeff said with a grin. "Especially you... Princess."
Cherie leaned in and gave him a kiss on the cheek. "Thanks, Dad! C'mon, girls. We've got more shopping to do!"
The couple watched as the girls sauntered off down the mall, still giggling and whispering, shopping bags hanging off their arms. The adults changed direction, strolling along in the wake of the gaggle of girls. They watched as the girls stopped to talk to Dom and Joshua. The nurse was grinning at them, and little Josh held up a stuffed horse for the girls to see.
"Y'know, love, I haven't bought you anything special and today is your birthday," Jeff said quietly.
Dianne gave him a long-suffering look. "You mean the time alone with you won't be special enough?"
"Well, yes, it will, but today is the actual day, and I think I should get you something to remember it by," Jeff said. "Let's take a look around in... here." He pulled her into a shop next to the music store the girls had disappeared into. "I bet the girls will end up in here later, but right now, it's just you and me."
"Oh, Jeff," Dianne said with a chuckle, shaking her head.
About twenty minutes later, the girls walked into the store, and spied Jeff and Dianne finishing up their purchase. "Dad! Mom!" Cherie called. "What are you doing in here?"
"Oh, I'm just buying your mother a special birthday gift," Jeff said with a grin.
"What is it?" "Can we see?" "Show it to us, please?" The girls crowded around Dianne. With as smile and a sigh, she opened the box and pulled out... a stuffed cat. But not just any stuffed cat. This was a custom-made white cat, wearing a formal dress of dark burgundy satin, and a stuffed golden crown on its head.
"Oooh!" "Oh, she's so cute!" "I want one like that!"
"Is she a princess?" Lorena asked, stroking the cat's soft, plush fur.
"No," Jeff said. "She's a queen... just like my wife."
From: TikatuSent: 8/31/2005
  
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1457 is a reply to message #1455] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:02 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
]******Tracy Island; Sunday May 6, 2068; around 9 a.m.******[/I]
Emily Tracy sat in a chair on the balcony of the lounge and enjoyed her cup of tea while taking in the view of the ocean. With her son, daughter-in-law, and most of her grandchildren away in Wyoming, things were very quiet.
Kyrano, stroking a purring Asterix, took a seat next to Emily. "Hello, Mrs. Tracy."
"Hello, Kyrano."
"How are you feeling?"
She sighed. "With most of the family away, I miss all the usual noise, especially of the grandkids."
"I understand. I miss my Tin-Tin, but I also hope she is enjoying herself."
Finishing her cup of tea, Emily leaned back in her chair. "She deserves some happiness for herself after all the trouble she's had lately." She frowned and spoke with an upset voice. "That Giles Tallman... oh, I mean Giles Hightower... he leads our Tin-Tin down a garden path, and all he wanted to do was use her! Then, just when things were looking promising with that Christopher Jordan, he ups and quits IR!"
Kyrano nodded in agreement. "I have spoken with my daughter about her situation. She understands the right man will come in her life one day."
"Well, I'm grateful she's surrounded by family and friends to help her get through the tough times."
"As am I."
She looked at Asterix. "The poor little one. He's been left here all alone."
"No, he is not alone," said Kyrano as he shook his head. "Like Tin-Tin, he is also surrounded by love. In fact, I have decided upon a new name for him. I wish to name him Durian, after an Asian fruit. His fur matches in color."
She started stroking the marmalade tabby cat. "What do you think about that, Durian?"
The cat just continued enjoying the feel of the two humans stroking him.
"Sounds like you've got yourself a winner, Kyrano," Emily said with a chuckle.
"Indeed I do, Mrs. Tracy."
From: TracyFan4Ever Sent: 9/2/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1458 is a reply to message #1457] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:02 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Dianne breathed deeply, enjoying the smell of pine and water and leather and... horse. She chuckled under her breath and glanced ahead to the lead rider, his salt and pepper hair almost fully hidden under a cowboy hat. It was the last ride for the girls as a group, and the only ride Dianne and Jeff would enjoy while they were here. After this, the guests would be flown home and get to Greenville in mid-afternoon, while the boys would take Cherie out for one last ride before returning to the island.
"Mom?" Cherie said, dropping back a bit where the path by the river was wide enough for two, "Can't we stay a little longer? Please?"
Dianne shook her head. "I'm sorry, hon, but no. Your friends have school tomorrow, and because of the IDL, you and your brothers will miss a day anyway. Tyler can't afford that, and neither can you with exams coming up and all. Plus, I'd really like to get the rest of my birthday present underway. But don't worry; we'll find time to get out here this summer, maybe even bring some of yours and your brothers' friends out again."
"Hrmph," Cherie said with a pout. "You'd think that because we're rich, we'd have time to do whatever we wanted whenever we wanted."
"Cherie," her mother said in a warning tone. "That'a a bad attitude to have and I won't stand for it. Yes, we're rich. But with that wealth comes responsibilities. I was just talking to your Dad last night about how much I sometimes wish we lived just like ordinary people, and he pointed out that even if we didn't have the 'family business', we'd still have responsibilities to the other family business, the one that generates the wealth. So get it into your head that we can't come and go at our leisure." Dianne sat up straighter in the saddle, stretching her shoulders back a bit. "Besides, you'd still have school, and for you and your brothers, that comes first."
Cherie looked down at the pommel of her saddle. "I'm sorry, Mom. I guess you're right." She sighed. "I just sometimes wish... this kind of thing could last forever."
"If it lasted forever, you'd get bored of it," Dianne said with a small smile. "Better to let it end so you can come back and really appreciate it when it does happen." She looked ahead at the trail. "Uh oh. The trail's narrowing again. You'd better pull ahead of me."
"Okay, Mom," Cherie said with another sigh. She gave her horse a light kick and Dianne pulled back on her reins so that Cherie could get ahead of her.
~Sometimes I have to agree with her, Dianne mused. ~Sometimes I wish our lives were one big party. But then, would I feel as fulfilled as I do working with IR? And would our kids be the selfless, giving people they are or are becoming? I'm sure Jeff's boys would have to work hard not to fulfill the "playboy" image they often cultivate, despite Jeff and Lucille's smart training. But my kids? Without IR and the example of giving they see every day, they might not become the selfless individuals that I want them to be. So in that respect, I'm glad that we're not the usual "rich and famous" family. She sighed, then turned her attention back to the scenic area they were passing through.
From: Tikatu Sent: 9/4/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1459 is a reply to message #1458] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:02 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Sunday, May 6, 2068, 10:30 p.m., Greenville, SC
"Oh, this feels... wonderful," Jeff said with a satisfied sigh. Dianne smiled as her skilled hands worked the kinks out of his back and shoulder muscles. She knelt on the king-sized bed, straddling first his buttocks then his thighs as she worked her way downward.
"I wish I could do the same for you, love," he murmured, his head pillowed on his hands, his eyes closed. "But I'm not as skilled at this as you and your mother are."
"I know," Dianne replied soothingly. "But you give great foot rubs, and I'll expect one after I'm done with you."
"If we don't get involved in something else, first," Jeff said, a smile touching his lips.
"Even if we do get involved in that 'something else'," she replied. "I still expect a foot rub."
"Yes, ma'am," he replied, as another heavy, satisfied sigh trailed off into an audible moan. "I'm glad we decided to take a hotel room," he continued, his voice becoming deeper and huskier. "I still don't feel right about being in your mother's house while she's away."
"She wouldn't have minded," Dianne told him as she massaged his sides. "But this way, we don't have to do any clean up before we leave."
"No, we don't. And it means I get to pamper you as you ought to be for your birthday." He reached down awkwardly with his left hand, searching for hers, and when he found it, he grabbed her by the wrist, letting his thumb caress the inside and drawing her arm up toward his face so he could kiss where he was caressing. This brought Dianne's body down onto his back and he smiled as he felt her weight on him and signs of her excitement through her skimpy silk chemise. He kissed the palm of her hand as she lavished her own caresses, butterfly light, on the back of his neck.
Without a word between them, she slipped off his back, rolling onto hers as he kept hold of her wrist. Moving onto his side, he kissed her arm all the way up from wrist to shoulder, then finally let go as he reached her neck, coming up on hands and knees above her.
"How about this kind of massage?" he asked in her ear between kisses.
"I like it," she replied with a low moan. "But it doesn't get you out of the foot rub."
He stopped and pulled back to grin at her. "Yes, ma'am." Then he planted his lips on her eager ones as they got busy with that "something else".
From: Tikatu Sent: 9/7/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1460 is a reply to message #1459] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:03 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Tracy Island; Monday, May 7, 11:30 AM
Brains looked up as Tin-Tin walked into the lab for the first time since returning from Wyoming. He noticed that she seemed different. She looks so refreshed and... well, happy!
She smiled at him and went to her desk to check her computer files and mailbox, not hearing his quick intake of breath. She turned it on and was soon engrossed in the mail that had piled up while she was gone.
For the first time in a very long time, Brains looked at his screen without seeing what was on it. He found himself less interested in his work and more in his co-worker. Her smile had knocked him for a loop, although she didn't seem to notice. He sat there, staring at nothing in particular, thinking about it, until his computer beeped at him, indicating that he'd gotten an email message. It startled him and he jumped, causing his legs to hit the underside of the desktop. "Ow!"
She turned around. "Brains? Are you all right?"
"Er, uh, yes, uh, Tin-Tin. I was just concentrating, and was startled," he replied, rubbing his legs. Then he screwed up his courage and said, "You seem to be -- I don't know -- more relaxed and happy than I've seen you in a long time. I guess you must have had a good time at the ranch?"
She smiled again. "Oh yes. It was so enjoyable. And you know what? I wasn't annoyed or jealous or anything like that when some of the girls drooled over Alan. It felt -- no, it feels so good to finally be over him. Now, maybe I can find someone with whom I can share a more permanent relationship."
Wow! She's really over Alan! I wonder if -- no, I can't. How would I approach her? And what would it do to our relationship here in the lab? Can I risk that? Should I even think of taking the chance to --
"Brains!"
"Huh? Oh, I'm sorry, Tin-Tin. What did you say?"
"Never mind. It'll keep. You know, you have been working too hard. You haven't had a real break in ages. I think we should both stop and take a long one."
"What, now?"
"Sure. No time like the present. How about the two of us taking a walk along the beach? We could take a picnic basket, since it's almost lunchtime. I think it would do you a world of good."
His jaw had dropped as she spoke. Now he closed it quickly and swallowed hard. "Y-you want to have a picnic on the beach -- with me?"
"Right now I can't think of anyone I'd rather have a picnic with. Oh, come on, Brains. I'm sure anything you're working on can wait until this afternoon. I tell you what. I'll change into a swimsuit and see what's in the kitchen that we can take with us. You go change into some swim trunks, and I'll meet you by the pool in half an hour. We'll leave from there. Okay?"
"S-sure, Tin-Tin. Half an hour it is. See you by the pool!"
From: Hobbeth Sent: 9/7/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1461 is a reply to message #1460] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:03 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Monday, May 7, 2068, 2:30 p.m., Black Mountain, New Hampshire
"Here it is," Jeff said quietly as he pulled the SUV to a stop.
Dianne's eyes opened wide with wonder. "Oh, Jeff! What a beautiful place!" She turned to him, her eyes shining, but her countenance fell when she saw the look on his face. She reached out a hand to cup his cheek and draw his eyes toward her. "Oh, love. It's hard, isn't it?"
He swallowed heavily, his blue eyes meeting her brown ones frankly, and nodded slightly. "It is. Much harder than I anticipated."
"We don't have to stay," she offered. "We can go back to New York, spend the rest of the week at the penthouse."
He sat quietly for a moment, looking down, avoiding her gaze, then raised his eyes back to hers again and shook his head. "No. I bought this place for you and I'm not going to let... what happened... interfere with your enjoyment of it. Or mine. Let's go up and see the inside." He pressed his hand over hers for a moment, then turned his face to kiss her palm.
She smiled at him. "Let's go."
They walked up to the A-frame cottage together, arms around each other's waists. He held the door open for her then stepped inside after her.
"Oh my!" she said as she looked around. Turning to him, she asked, "Did you pick out the furnishings?"
"Yes. It didn't make sense to come up here to an empty house. Anything you don't like, we get rid of and replace," he said. "But I thought I knew your tastes well enough to do some of the decorating."
"Oh, I love it!"
The furniture in the great room, where they now stood, was made of a redwood tone, in the plain Mission style of the Southwest. Braided Native American rugs covered some of the knotty pine floors, and a log cabin quilt hung above the flagstone fireplace. The cushions were of dark brown leather, and had pillows done in Native American patterns on them. The dining area was also of the Mission style, with a wide table and padded wooden chairs done in Native American prints. The kitchen was sunny and bright, the walls covered with a fine lined plaid in light blue. Curtains were white and light blue, and the dishes were white with a rim of dark jewel colors.
Together they climbed the stairs to the master bedroom, where the plain Mission style held sway, but there was the old fashioned feel of quilts done in dark plaids. The bathroom was done in the dark jeweltones on bright white.
Dianne sighed in contentment. She turned to give Jeff a sweet, passionate kiss. "It's all lovely, dearest," she said, her voice breathless. "Jes' me an' you heah, foah a whole week."
He smiled at the drawl that had surfaced, and moved his hand slowly down the side of her neck as he returned the kiss, making it deeper and slower before saying, "I've longed for this... just the two of us."
A sudden banging on the door interrupted the building passion. They exchanged glances full of surprise and annoyance at whoever dared to bother them.
"Ah'll go downstayahs an' find out what they want," Dianne said levelly. Jeff shook his head. He had heard this tone of Dianne's before and seen the glint in her eye and knew it meant trouble.
"I'll come with you. For backup."
She studied him for a moment, knowing very well what he was saying without words: "I'm going to make sure you don't make a fool of yourself." There was a pregnant pause, and then she nodded curtly. "Let's go."
The knocking continued. Outside, Ned Cook stood, microphone in hand, Joe at his right on the deck, camera at the ready. Two or three other reporters, smelling a story, were standing on the ground, hoping to catch a snippet from the famous and reclusive Jefferson Tracy and his still-new wife.
Cook heard the lock on the door being unfastened and pointed to Joe, who started his camera rolling. "Hello, America. Ned Cook here, waiting to get an exclusive interview with reclusive multibillionaire, Jefferson Tracy and his lovely new wife, Dr. Dianne Tracy. They've come to a property somewhere in New Hampshire for an undisclosed reason. The property is not far from the site where Mr. Tracy nearly lost his life in a helijet crash three months ago. Now, the door is opening and I hope that the couple will come out and answer a few questions. Here's Dr. Tracy."
He thrust his microphone in Dianne's face as she stepped out onto the deck, closing the door emphatically behind her. "Dr. Tracy? Could I ask a few questions? Why are you and your husband here, so close to the place where, if not for the actions of International Rescue, he would have lost his life?"
Dianne stood firmly and impassively, her arms folded over her chest, and no one could miss the thunderous look on her face. But it was with a clear and seemingly calm voice that she said, "Mistah Cook. Ah don' know how you found out wheyah we were. But th' only words Ah'm gonna give you ahr th' same ones Ah gave you in New York. The same ones mah children gave you theah when you harassed them. An' th' same ones mah husband gave you when you tried to break into his hospital room." She took out one finger and pointed it at him, punctuating every word with a stab toward him as she stated succinctly, "Mahnd. Yoah. Own. Bizness."
She glared out at the other reporters and waved a hand in their direction. "Thet goes foah th' rest o' you. Mahnd yoah own business." She stopped, turned as if to go back inside, then swiveled back. "An' whayle yoah at it: GET OFF MAH PROPERTY befoah Ah call th' sheriff an' have y'all removed." Then she spun on her heel, marched inside, and slammed the door in his face.
While she was confronting the media and keeping their attention, Jeff was quietly closing the vertical blinds that covered the lower windows of the A-frame. So when the startled Cook signaled Joe to try his luck, the windows were impenetrable.
"Yes, I'd like the sheriff's office please," he called on his satellite phone when he had finished with covering the windows. "Hello, this is Jefferson Tracy calling.... no, it really is Jefferson Tracy. Yes, THAT Jefferson Tracy. Listen, I don't have time for small talk here. My wife and I are at our cabin on Black Mountain... yes, it's the A-frame on Mountain Creek Road. We have a small group of reporters outside our house and we'd like your people to remove them... now." Jeff's face began to grow red with anger, and Dianne put a hand on his arm and gave him a warning look. "Yes, NOW." There was a pause. "Then let me talk to the sheriff himself. Oh, he is, is he? Where? Listen, I don't care if he's lunching with the governor! I want some action here! Never mind. You'll be hearing from Concord in just a few minutes." Jeff slammed down the phone and muttered imprecations under his breath.
"Looks like this is going to be a trying vacation for both of us, love," Dianne said, rubbing his shoulders.
"Not if I have anything to say about it," he replied with a growl. He picked up the phone. "I want the number of the governor's office in Concord, please."
From: Tikatu Sent: 9/12/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1462 is a reply to message #1461] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:03 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Monday, May 7, 2068, 10:30 p.m., Black Mountain, New Hampshire.
The music wound down and Jeff and Dianne stopped dancing. They kissed, long and deeply, and Jeff's hand slid up Dianne's back to find the zipper of the dress she was wearing for the occasion.
They had made dinner together, including a small chocolate cake to celebrate Dianne's birthday. Jeff had set the table, including candles and a fine wine to accompany the meal. Everything was quiet, almost too quiet for a pair that was used to the comings and goings of various offspring, parents, employees and friends. They had talked softly, and Jeff had pulled out two small boxes, one long, one short, wrapped in golden paper. He had watched Dianne's face as she opened them.
Her eyes had grown wide at the emerald necklace she found in the longer box. The large green stone, cut in the traditional near square, was flanked by tiny emeralds that ran along the platinum chain for at least two inches on each side. "Oh, Jeff, it's beautiful!" she had gushed as she took it out. Then she had turned her attention to the smaller box. Inside were matching emerald earrings. She had taken off the earrings that she was wearing, and slipped the new ones in, then had taken out the necklace. "Would you help me?" she had asked.
"Of course," he had murmured. He had gotten up and stood behind her, had fastened the necklace around her throat, then had leaned down to kiss her neck and as she had turned to him, her lips.
"Thank you, love! They're beautful!" she had said breathily before kissing him again.
"Happy birthday," he had replied.
Jeff had moved over to the sound system and had turned on some of her favorite dance music, soft and slow, then returned to pull her chair back and offer her his hand. "May I have this dance?"
She had smiled and put her hand in his.
Now the zipper was slowly moving downward, exposing her back and her shoulders as the gap behind her widened. Jeff began to kiss the exposed skin while Dianne pulled his shirt tail from his pants. She was far too close to undo the buttons on his shirt and she was loath to let him stop his kisses. But at last she pulled back a bit and whispered, "Why don' we take this someplace moah comfortable?"
He looked at her with amusement. "You mean you don't want to make love before a roaring fire in the fireplace?"
She shook her head. "Not on a hahdwood floah. Ah lahke a little bit o' padding beneath mah back. An' leathah is so hahd t' clean..."
He chuckled and said, "All right. You win... this time. Someday I will get you to make love on the kitchen table or the living room couch."
"You kin keep tryin', Mistah Tracy," Dianne said coquettishly. "Foah now, owah bedroom awaits." She took his hand and led him to their bedroom. The lights and the fire could wait for later.
From: Tikatu Sent: 9/14/2005
[Updated on: Thu, 26 July 2012 22:04] Report message to a moderator |
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1463 is a reply to message #1462] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:04 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
May 8, 2068; Tracy Island, around 2 p.m.
Gordon came into the kitchen where Emily was making one of her trademark apple pies for the evening's dessert. He stood watching as she finished her preparations and put it in the oven.
"Mmm," Gordon remarked, taking in the scent of the cinnamon and fresh apples. "It already smells great!"
"Thank you for the compliment," Emily replied, turning to her grandson, a wooden spoon in her hand. "But it won't get you a piece until AFTER dinner so don't even try." She waved the utensil in his direction for emphasis.
"All right, I get the message," Gordon said, putting his hands up in mock surrender. "I just came to ask if you've talked to Virgil. I haven't seen him since breakfast."
"No, I haven't talked to your brother. Have you tried Thunderbird Two?"
xxxx
Virgil sat in Thunderbird Two's pilot's seat, going over a list of things that needed to be checked before they were called out again. Going to the storage area behind the cockpit he started taking inventory of the tools. He paid special attention to the oxyhydnite tanks and the laser cutters, making sure the tanks were full and the cutters were functioning properly. From there, he went to the lockers containing the fire suits. He pulled them out, checking them carefully for tears. After close inspection, he discovered a small tear in one of the suits. "I'll have to get Grandma to repair this," he remarked, setting the damaged suit aside.
He was on his way to check the food stores when Gordon's voice came over his wristcom. "Hey Virg, where are you?"
"I'm down in Thunderbird Two, checking supplies."
A few minutes later, Gordon joined his brother. "Hey, I was wondering where you'd gone off to. I wanted to see if you'd like to go diving. Maybe check out the reef on the other side of the island."
"Sure thing. Just let me finish here then we'll go."
"Great. I'll meet you at the boat pen."
It took Virgil an hour and a half to finish with the equipment check and he hurried to join Gordon at the boat pen. He found his brother waiting patiently by one of the cabin cruisers.
"It took you long enough, Virg. Any longer and I would have left without you."
"Sorry, Gordon," Virgil said, tossing his diving equipment into the boat. "I was just making sure everything was okay."
As the two brothers made their way to the other side of the island, they talked about the lack of rescue activity.
"It's strange to go more than a few days without a rescue call coming in," Gordon said to his brother while steering the boat.
"I know. But it'll come soon enough. And when it does, we need to be ready. In the meantime, let's enjoy the peace."
As the boat sped through the water, Gordon described in detail what they'd find. Virgil smiled, leaning back in his seat, listening to his brother's enthusiasm.
From: Magicmaster8 Sent: 9/14/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1464 is a reply to message #1463] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:05 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Tracy Island; Wednesday, May 9, 8:45 AM
"Brains, I want to talk to you."
Startled, the engineer looked up to see Alan standing in the doorway with a look on his face that told Brains why he was here. But considering all the heartache he put Tin-Tin through, I'm not going to let him off easy. "Of course; come in and sit down. What's wrong? Is there a problem with Thunderbird Three?"
Alan moved further into the room, but didn't accept the invitation. Instead, he leaned against a table and folded his arms across his chest. "No, the vessel is in perfect condition. Look, I'll get right to the point. Is it true that you and Tin-Tin went for a walk on the beach and had a picnic the other day? Just the two of you?"
"I don't see that it's any of your business, Alan, but yes, we did."
"Why?"
"What? What's your problem, Alan?"
"I don't have a problem, but you will if you don't answer the question. Why did you go walking alone with Tin-Tin?"
Brains shook his head, but when Alan straightened up, and moved closer, he replied, "Because she asked me, and I wanted to, okay? And both of us enjoyed ourselves. It was a nice break from work, and we both returned relaxed and refreshed."
Alan relaxed his stance a little. "Well, okay, but don't make a habit of doing that kind of thing."
Brains found himself becoming irritated. "If Tin-Tin wants to go on a picnic with me, or do anything else with me, why shouldn't I agree to? If I like her and she likes me, that's between us."
"Don't you realize what's going on here? She's just trying to make me come back to her. The poor girl is --"
"Is completely over you, Alan Tracy." The two men looked up, startled, to see Tin-Tin standing in the entrance, her hands on her hips. "I asked Brains to go picnicking with me because I wanted to be with him. He's a nice man, and I like him a lot. We had fun, and I hope that we can do it again, soon."
"Now, Tin-Tin --" Alan moved toward her, but was stopped in his tracks by her next words.
"Don't you 'now Tin-Tin' me! You told me it was over between us. Do you expect me to curl up and die, pining away for you?"
Brains leaned against his desk, admiration for Tin-Tin and amusement at Alan's predicament warring with each other for priority. He folded his arms and waited.
"Of course not; I --"
"You really should get over yourself, Alan. I'm so not into you that I was amused by all the attention you got from Cherie's girlfriends. And you know what? It felt good. It feels good. You have no right to tell anyone how to treat me, or whether or not to go out with me. You gave that right up the night you told me it was over between us."
"Tin-Tin, it was for your own good that I broke it off between us; I told you that at the time. You don't understand that I --"
"Alan, you never gave me a chance to respond that night. Well now I'm going to. How dare you treat me like I am just a child who has no involvement in any rescues? You seem to forget that I was with you when we went to rescue that Sun Probe rocket, and nearly got fried ourselves. I've been there from the first, and I know how dangerous it can get. But you don't have to be a member of International Rescue to be in dangerous situations; the victims that you have helped can attest to that. No, Alan. It's for a different reason entirely that you broke up with me. And you would agree, if you were being honest. So don't tell me it was for my good!"
Alan turned to look at Brains. "Don't you have anything to say?"
Brains grinned. "Not really. I think she's saying it all." He looked past him to Tin-Tin, who was glaring at Alan. "I will say that I find your 'I-don't-want-her-but-you-can't-have-her' attitude somewhat childish." He was rewarded by a smile of approval from Tin-Tin.
"I suppose you two will want to move in together, then?"
"Alan!"
"Alan, that was totally uncalled for," Brains admonished. "I think it's time you left before you embarrass yourself any further."
Shaking his head, the youngest of the five original Tracy brothers turned and walked out.
From: Hobbeth Sent: 9/15/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1466 is a reply to message #1464] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:12 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Tracy Island Wednesday May 9th midday
John whistled as he entered the kitchen. Emily Tracy smiled at her grandson. "You sound in a happy mood."
"I am, Grandma. Kat made me dinner last night and I offered to return the favour. But... I'm not the world's best chef."
"Lands sakes, well why did you offer then? And I thought you were the intelligent one," Emily said with a wink.
John shrugged and grinned.
"It seemed like a nice thing to do..."
"Well, why don't you take her on a picnic?" Emily suggested. "I can help you to pack a picnic basket."
"Sounds great!"
John helped his Grandma fill the basket with both vegetarian food for Kat and some of his favourite picnic foods.
"Thanks, Grandma," John said, giving Emily a peck on the cheek.
"Oh, you," she said, swatting him lightly on the back as he retreated.
John headed out through the lounge and down past the pool towards the beach. He had arranged to meet Kat on the beach. She was sitting on a large towel on the sand, head in a book. She looked up as his shadow fell across her. Shading her eyes, she said, "Oh hi, John."
"Hi, Kat. What are you reading?" John inquired, as he sat down beside her.
Kat showed John. "Brains has given me a manual on Thunderbird One. We are starting maintenance work on Thunderbird One now, and he has lent me this manual to look at to help me. I thought that it would be easier to read away from the others."
John smiled. "Well, I promised I was going to make you a meal, the truth is I would probably poison you. So, I've decided to take you on a picnic. Where would you like to go?"
Kat put the manual to one side. "Why not stay right here?"
"Sure," John nodded, "Let's have a swim first." They headed for the surf. John swam around strongly for a time, and then looked at Kat. "Come on in deeper."
Kat launched herself into the waves. The water was so warm. She swam lazily around for a while. John playfully tried to drag her under the waves. Kat began to splash John, and they splashed around in the water for quite a time, before Kat called for a truce.
Laughing they returned back to where they had left their towels. They sat down and John opened the basket. He brought out some slices of various cheeses, hard-boiled eggs, fresh fruit, a large bowl of mixed salad, and Waldorf and pasta salads. As they ate, John asked Kat what she had thought of the book he had lent her.
"It was so very interesting. I really enjoyed reading it. Have you written any more? I still blush at how naïve I must have seemed that night we looked at the stars. But there are one or two questions I would like to ask."
"Ask away," John replied, pouring two glasses of orange juice and handing one to her.
She hesitated. "Well... please don't laugh at me, but I can never quite understand black holes."
"Kat, I would never laugh at you. It's really great to be able to discuss my hobby with someone who is really interested. Now a black hole is where a star shrinks under an incredible gravitational pull, which crushes it into a sphere of increasing density and decreasing size. As the density builds up, the escape velocity at the surface of the star gets higher and higher until it eventually exceeds the speed of light. At this point, light rays, which up until then have been able to escape from the star, are bent back on themselves and are unable to leave. Eventually there will be a point at which the light can break free. This is the 'event horizon', enclosing a zone forever hidden from our view. This zone is known as a black hole."
Kat nodded thoughtfully. "Can you see a black hole?
He shook his head, "No, but there are indications that a black hole is there."
She took a sip of her drink. John lay back on the sand, hands behind his head, watching her.
"I remember years ago when I was visiting my aunt and uncle in Scotland, the aurora borealis was very visible. It was quite breathtaking. Have you ever seen it?" Kat turned to look at him.
"Yes I have," John acknowledged. "They were very visible on an arctic rescue we had to undertake."
"All of this is absolutely fascinating. I could go on listening to you and discussing astronomy forever." Kat smiled enthusiastically.
"Well, then, we must spend another evening watching through the telescope," John replied. "Now, how about some of Grandma's apple pie?"
They continued eating, watching the waves and the sea birds wheeling above them and landing on the sand. Kat felt her eyes closing. John watched her with amusement. She opened her eyes as a shout hailed them.
"Hello you two! Is there any food left?"
Kat giggled.
"Sorry, Gords, no. We have just finished it all." John frowned at his brother and then rolled his eyes at Kat, who just laughed.
"We are going swimming. Want to join us, John?" Brandon asked.
"No, we've already had a dip," John said. "But enjoy!"
Kat lay back on her towel as the two aquanauts walked further down the beach. John watched her for a moment and then said, "There's a comet due to pass over the Southern Hemisphere in July. I know that Alex and probably Tyler will want to see it through the telescope, and I was wondering whether you would care to join me on the roof one night to watch it."
"That would be lovely, John. Yes, I would like to see that very much."
John started to repack the picnic basket. "Guess we had better be heading back. I did agree to play a game of foosball with Alex, and if I don't get there on time, he'll be mad and he'd be right to be."
The two headed back, the setting sun throwing long shadows and a cooling breeze gently wafted the trees. Kat thought what a wonderful place it was, and how lucky she was to be living and working here. She stole a sidelong look at John. He was so good looking. She silently prayed that the two of them would become very good friends. At the villa they parted company.
"Thanks for the picnic, John," Kat said
"Thank you for your company. I'm glad you enjoyed it."
John headed for the lounge and the games room, whilst Kat returned to her apartment.
From: Tawnyangel22 Sent: 9/15/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1467 is a reply to message #1466] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:13 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Wednesday, May 9, 2068, 9:00 p.m., Tracy Island
"To bed with you," Lisa told Tyler when she found him in the game room, playing pinball.
"Can't I stay up just a little longer?" the boy wheedled. "Just to finish this game?"
"No," his grandmother replied curtly. "You have school tomorrow."
Tyler pouted, and let the ball drain. With a scowl at her, he stomped off, heading for the stairs that would take him to the upper level, and his bedroom.
Lisa sighed and shook her head as she followed. She was joined on the upper level by Emily, who was also shaking her head and clucking her tongue. Alex glared at them both as he joined his brother. The two boys glanced at each other, and broke into a run, almost running smack dab into Scott, who whirled and quickly caught each by an arm. "No running in the house," the eldest Tracy son said firmly, "except in cases of emergency."
Neither boy said anything; they didn't dare mouth off to their eldest adoptive brother, but the looks on their faces said so much more than words. They shook off his grip, and walked as quickly as they dared down the hall to their suite, breaking into a run near the door.
Scott shook and scratched his head, a look of puzzled annoyance on his face. He turned when the two grandmothers caught up with him. Throwing a thumb over his shoulder he asked, "What's with them?"
Lisa sighed again. "I wish I knew. I think it's a combination of jet lag, time zone change, and just plain orneriness. Plus the fact that Jeff and Dianne aren't here."
"Yes," Emily said in agreement. "Tyler's trying to catch up with his schoolwork and he's probably not one hundred percent over his troubles. Alex might be feeling a bit on the left out side; after all, Dianne danced attendance on Ty while he was sick, then there was the focus on Cherie for her birthday... speaking of whom, I'd better go warn her that her own bedtime is around the corner. Any idea where she might be?"
"Well," Lisa said, looking at her watch, then thinking for a moment. "She won't be online with her US crew; it's too early in the morning there. But there might be a couple of internet friends in this time zone... try the schoolroom first."
"Good idea," Emily replied. "Can you two handle the twin terrors while I see to Miss Cherie?"
"Sure, Grandma," Scott said. "Grandma P. and I can handle them. And if we can't, I'll call in reinforcements."
Grandma Tracy chuckled at her eldest grandson's comment. "F-A-B. I'll go find our girl; you two make sure those two monkeys don't destroy their room... any more than they already have." She turned and walked off down the hall, disappearing into the schoolroom.
Scott shook his head. "Used to be when the twin terrors we were talking about were Gordon and Alan," he commented as he pressed the button to open the door to the boys' suite.
The door refused to slide across, and Lisa pulled out a key. "I would have loved to see you five as kids, tearing up the house and giving your Dad those silver hairs he has today."
"I'll find you some vids," Scott said wryly as the door swished open. He gestured to the portal. "After you, milady."
Lisa snorted a laugh and entered the little boys' sitting room. Scott took a deep breath, looked ceilingward as if praying for strength, and followed.
From: Tikatu Sent: 9/15/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1468 is a reply to message #1467] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:13 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Wednesday, May 9th, 2068, 10:50p.m, Tracy Island
Alan walked briskly from the Tracy Villa and down to the beach with his hands in his pockets. He was still in a mood from when he spoke with Brains and Tin-Tin. ~Tin-Tin and Brains? She's just using him. That's it. She's using him to try and get to me. Alan kicked the sand under his feet a few times. ~How dare she chew me out like that? And in front of Brains, too. And Brains had the audacity to agree with her? He had no right saying what he said to me.
Alan's stomping slowed to a gentle walk as he approached the Cliff House. ~I can get any woman I want. I'll show Tin-Tin. Alan looked up at the Cliff House apartments as he heard laughter flowing from the balcony. He looked up, calling to the two who were there and waving to them.
Brandon looked down at Alan and invited him to join them.
It didn't take long for Alan to make his way up. When he arrived, Brandon and Nikki were still laughing.
"You two look like you're having fun," Alan said.
"And you look like you could do with a laugh," Brandon observed.
Nikki frowned. "What's up?"
"It doesn't matter. But you're right, Brandon. I could do with a laugh," Alan answered.
"I heard Cherie's friends were pretty interested in you and your brothers. Must have been interesting." Brandon tried to keep a straight face.
"Interesting? More like embarrassing. You'd think they would drool over guys their own age." Alan folded his arms and noticed Nikki biting her bottom lip. "Don't laugh."
Nikki giggled slightly, trying to contain an outburst. "I can't help it. Alan, it's natural for teenage girls to drool over older guys. Trust me, I've been there."
"Who was the guy?" Brandon asked.
"I can't remember," Nikki replied.
"Yeah, right! Both men answered in unison.
"It doesn't matter who he was. You guys wouldn't know him." Nikki stood up. "I'm going to get a drink. Do you two want anything?"
"Nah. I'm going to head to my apartment and leave you two to chat." Brandon stretched as he also stood up. "I'll see you in the morning." He bid them goodnight and left.
"Do you want anything to drink, Alan?" Nikki asked after Brandon left.
"No, it's ok."
"I'll be back in a minute."
"Actually, I'll come with you. I need to ask you a question."
"Sure, go ahead."
Alan walked beside Nikki. He wasn't sure if he should ask her his question in case she bit his head off. He thought about how to phrase it right first. "Just say you've been dating this guy for a long time... wait let me start again... would you... no."
"Alan, what's the question?"
Alan took a deep breath. "I was talking to a friend earlier who has a problem. He's been dating this girl for a long time and he broke up with her some months back because his job is too dangerous for him to carry on his relationship. Anyway, he thinks his ex is now dating a colleague of his."
"Is there more?" Nikki opened the door to her apartment and made her way to her kitchen to get a glass of water. The part about the job being too dangerous to continue the relationship sounded familiar.
"Well, my friend thinks his ex is using this colleague to get to him and pretending that she's over her previous relationship."
"What makes your, er, friend think that she's pretending?"
"She's moved on too fast. People don't move on that quickly." Alan sounded like he was starting to get angry.
"Whoa, Alan, calm down." Nikki put her glass down. "Your friend needs to realise that his ex can move on whenever she likes and with whoever she likes. He can't expect her to pine away for him and hope he takes her back. He broke up with her and she's moved on with her life. She's a free agent, so he needs to get over it." She was about to pick up her glass again when something else came to mind. "It also sounds like your friend needs to get over himself too. There are lots of people out there who have dangerous jobs but still manage to have healthy relationships, even families. Your friend needs to think about that because it sounds like if he continues with the way he is going, he'll probably end up being miserable or even alone."
"Isn't that a bit harsh?"
Nikki shrugged. "It's the truth."
From: Nikki-browneyes1 Sent: 9/18/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1469 is a reply to message #1468] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:13 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Wednesday, May 9, 10:30 a.m., Black Mountain, New Hampshire
Delayed Fallout, pt. 1
"Are you sure you want to do this?" Dianne asked, a concerned expression on her face.
"Yes, I'm sure," Jeff answered firmly. "I need to understand everything, even if I don't remember it all."
Dianne sighed heavily. Tuesday had been a long, lazy day for them both. They had gone exploring in the SUV, checking out the scenery which was still just becoming fully green in many of the mountainous areas. The press was kept at bay by a cadre of discreet security guards as they traveled. They had spent some time looking for a nice restaurant, and soon discovered that many were still closed because the tourist season had yet to begin. The plan for Thursday was to drive up Mt. Washington and visit some of the natural wonders in Franconia Notch. But today, Jeff wanted to go out to the crash site. He wanted to see where it was and hear Dianne tell him what happened. He had read all the rescue logs, yes, but he wanted the immediacy of being there.
He had given Callie a call, and asked her to go through the logs and find out the exact spot where the helijet went down. She was puzzled by the request but obliged him. Then he put in a call to New York and asked Steve, the head of the Tracy Industries hangar, to give him a more precise description. Steve didn't like it, but Jeff pressed him, and finally the hangar chief caved. Now Jeff was dressed in jeans and a light shirt of the traditional checked flannel and was ready to go.
They drove off the property in silence, Dianne with her arms wrapped tightly around her. It had finally dawned on her that the reason she didn't want Jeff to go to the crash site was not because of the effect it would have on him, but what it would do to her. ~Jeff doesn't realize what he's asking me to do and I don't know how I can tell him, especially when this might be something I need just as much as he does.
Jeff followed the GPS indicator and they bumped along the old logging road that led to the clearing they were looking for. When the device showed that they were close to their goal, they got out, Dianne hesitating as Jeff held out his hand. He had taken a smaller GPS unit with him, one that he could hang from a belt loop, and he consulted it as they penetrated a small stand of woods, Jeff in the lead, Dianne following numbly.
The white birch woods gave way to a wide, green clearing, the soft new grass already grown calf deep and with spring wildflowers waving in the sunshine, an occasional insect buzzing about them as it tended to its business. Jeff looked around in confused wonder at the site. "It's a lovely place."
"It didn' look lahke this back 'n February," Dianne said in a shaky voice that broke on the last word.
He glanced over at her, concerned, and sudden comprehension dawned. "Oh, God! Dianne! I'm... I'm sorry. I had no idea." He pulled her to him and held her close, feeling her tremble in his arms. "C'mon. Let's go back. I don't need to see this."
"But... Ah think Ah do," she murmured into his chest. "Ah've been goin' along all this tahme, thinkin' Ah had dealt with it, an'... now Ah'm not so shoah Ah have." She pulled away and gazed up into his blue eyes, her own filled with tremulous, yet-to-be-shed tears. She swallowed hard, and said, "Let's do what we came heah t' do."
"Are you sure?" Jeff asked, his voice persistent, his gaze into her eyes intense in his concern. "We don't have to do this."
Dianne nodded wordlessly, and Jeff drew in a deep breath, letting it out slowly. "All right," he finally agreed. "We'll continue. But will you trust me to know if it's too much for you? Will you trust me to pull you away if I see you're overwhelmed? Because, frankly, I don't know that you'll be aware of it."
Dianne nodded again, and he let her go. "Okay, dear heart. Tell me what happened."
She clutched his hand in an almost painful grip, and silently pulled him into the clearing.
tbc....
From: Tikatu Sent: 9/18/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1470 is a reply to message #1469] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:14 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Delayed Fallout, pt. 2
"There wasn't enough room for Thunderbird One to set down," she began, her voice distant, as if reciting something that had happened to someone else. "Scott got down t' within about three meters befoah Ah bailed."
They were walking slowly uphill, stirring up the grass as they went, Dianne looking back every so often to try and gauge where everything was. Finally she stopped, one meter to the left of a flattened, rotting tree stump. "Heah. Heah's where Ah landed. God, it was cold! An' it was dark. All Ah could see was th' whahte o' th' snow, an' th' whahte on black o' th' trees, th' dark angry gray o' th' skah, an' th' black mess that was th' helijet." Her mind's eye brought her back to that time, and she shivered as if she was cold. "Th' snow was still falling, coverin' everythin' on th' ground, making mah depth perception useless. Ah still jumped. Once Ah reached th' ground, Scott threw down mah medikit."
Jeff looked around at the clearing from this point of view and agreed silently that Scott could not have put down, not with his wings out. Nor could Virgil have dropped the pod. He glanced at Dianne, who was crouched down, as if she had just jumped from Thunderbird One's belly. He was about to put a stop to the whole procedings when she stood, one arm extended but not pointing. Then she walked quickly back down the hill a bit, bearing to her left.
"Heah's whayah th' fuselage was."
Jeff could see the patch of bare ground, still dark with oil and other fluids that had leached into the soil. The bare spot wasn't big enough to indicate the helijet's entire form, but that didn't matter to Dianne. "Th' doah was off, an' th' entryway was crumpled, but Ah still could climb inside. Ah shone mah flashlaht around an' called foah Elise."
She walked down the hill a few paces, passing him, her mind still in the moment three months ago. "She was heah, next t' you. She had broken ribs, an' she was cold, but my first priority was... you."
Uttering the pronoun seemed to bring her back into the here and now, and she took a deep shaky breath. "Th' doah an' some o' th' seats had fallen on you. You don't know how happy Ah was t' feel yoah pulse! Ah ran mah medical scannah ovah you an' read off th' injuries. Theyah were so many. You were gray. You were hypothermic. You had a concussion, an' broken bones, an' internal injuries. Ah tried t' bury mahself in mah work, tried t' be th' professional. It worked some..." She stopped and took a deep breath. "Ah was able t' tear mahself away long enough t' prepayah Elise foah transport. Ah got her ready an' Gordon, Brandon an' Dom came down. They helped me put her on an A-grav an' Brandon an' Dom took her up t' Seven's sickbay. Gordon stayed behahnd t' set up th' winches."
She paused, a long silence that concerned Jeff. When she spoke again, her voice was hesitant and very low. "Ah almost lost it heah. Twice. Two tahmes Ah saw you as mah husband an' not mah patient. Th' first tahme was befoah we sent Elise up. Ah begged you not t' die on me. The second tahme was when Ah was gettin' ready foah th' boys t' lift th' debris off o' you. Ah was goin' ovah mah equipment an' suddenly, you were mah husband again. Scott got me through that one. Tole me not t' give in oah give up. Tole me Ah had t' be strong, foah you, foah everyone. He helped put me back on track. Then Brandon came back down... an' he an' Gordon started liftin' th' debris off o' you. An' Ah got too busy t' think 'bout anythin' but bein' a doctor."
She wrapped her arms tightly around herself again. "Ah stayed with you in th' surgical bay all th' way t' New York, an' had t' disguise mahself a bit t' help bring you down t' th' ER. Brains tole me Ah had t' get mah drawl undah control. It was hard, but Ah did. Then... Ah had t' leave. It was th' hahdest thin' in th' world t' leave you theah at Mount Sinai, t' leave you theah in th' hands o' strangeahs. About broke mah heart. But Ah did it, an' Ah chivvied Virgil t' let me off at th' penthouse so Ah could put in mah appearance as Missus Tracy. Th' bad weathah had turned cooperative bah then, workin' foah us an' not against us lahke it did heah. Scott, who was followin' in One, dropped Gordon off so's Ah wouldn't be bah mahself. Good thin', too. Ah needed his support. Ah needed everyone's support. 'Cause Ah was so damn scayahed Ah was gonna lose you, lose mah beloved husband... lahke Ah lost Rick. An' Ah knew... Ah knew Ah wasn't strong enough t' go through that again."
tbc....
From: Tikatu Sent: 9/18/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1471 is a reply to message #1470] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:14 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Delayed Fallout, pt. 3
Dianne stopped talking. She just looked at the ground, holding herself tightly. Jeff was at a loss; he didn't know what to say. Finally, he asked simply, "When did you sing to me?"
She swallowed and replied, "On th' way t' Mount Sinai. Theyah wasn't anythin' Ah could say without breakin' down. So, Ah just stroked yoah hayah an' sang softly." She looked up at the white clouds that floated serenely across the blue spring sky. "Ah was surprahzed that you remembered it."
"I did. I don't know why, but I did. I kept looking for you throughout that house in the dream."
He stepped over to her and took her in his arms, holding her close. She was stiff, and would not relax into his embrace. He held her head to his shoulder, and rubbed her back comfortingly.
"You would have gotten through it, Dianne. You would have. Don't ever sell yourself short. You were so strong for everyone, especially me. There were days when I just felt like giving up and you were the one who kept me going. You would have carried on without me, Dianne... but I'm so damned glad it wasn't necessary. And that's due to your skill and dedication as a doctor." He kissed her head, then laid his cheek on her hair. "You went above and beyond, my love; did things that would have broken most people, man or woman. I am amazed that you could even stand to be here and recount this to me, and I am so glad you shared your heart... and your pain and your fear."
He pulled back a little, and put a knuckle under her chin, raising her face to his. "You've carried all this around far too long. Let it go. Please, let it go. And let me be strong for you this time."
Dianne breathed in deeply, almost convulsively, then began to shake and sob. She clung to Jeff's neck, burying her face in his flannel shirt, making it damp with her tears as he continued to rub her back.
It seemed like time stopped in that clearing and there was nothing there save the two of them. But eventually Dianne calmed, and Jeff became aware of birdsong, and of the insects buzzing, and of the clouds moving along again. Dianne was spent and leaned heavily against him, her arms still around his neck.
"Ah did this once with yoah mothah, y'know. In New Yoahk. She was... a rock for me." She glanced up at him. "Yoah rahte, y'know. Ah would have survahved. But only because o' th' suppoaht o' owah family." She closed her eyes and nestled her head closer. "But Ah am damned glad it wasn't necessary."
"Hmm." Jeff hummed, looking up at the sky, a hint of humor in his voice. "Where have I heard that before?"
Dianne snorted a small laugh, just big enough for Jeff to know that she had reacted. He looked back down and kissed her on the forehead. "I think we're done here, don't you?"
She nodded wearily, and together they left the grassy clearing, and everything it represented, without a backwards glance.
From: Tikatu Sent: 9/19/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1472 is a reply to message #1471] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:14 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Thursday May 10 2068, 8.20am, Tracy Island
John roughly towelled off his hair as he wandered into his room from the en suite, grinning. He threw down the towel and picked up his hairbrush, contemplating the matted blond thing masquerading as his hair. He hummed as he tamed the mess and carefully styled the lock over his forehead, before drying off and throwing on a t-shirt and shorts.
He began to whistle as he collected up his towels and threw them in the washing basket, and opened the en suite window to let in fresh air to waft away the shower steam. He had risen not long before in an inordinately good mood. Never one to be particularly depressed, the jaunty feeling John felt was still unusual. Yet it was not unwelcome. He wondered if his mood had anything to do with his dreams. John sat down on the bed and laced his fingers together, brows drawn. He couldn't remember what exactly they were, but he could feel a lingering sense of elation. Shadows and outlines danced at the edges of his memory, out of reach. If only he could only remember... Perhaps it would help explain.
John stood and let out a quick breath, and began to hum again as he searched for his socks and shoes. One reason for the happiness that he did know, however, was the memories of the picnic the day before. He grinned and began to tie his laces. It had gone off without a hitch. Both he and Kat had enjoyed themselves, both in the water and on the sand. She was so easy to talk to, so interested, and he had to admit, it was great to have someone who was genuinely interested in learning about the stars. It'll be fun to show her the comet, he thought. I know she'll appreciate it -- Alex and Tyler will too.
He strode over to the door, ready to get some breakfast, and suddenly he stopped, one hand poised over the door handle, and felt the grin slip off his face. Realization had dawned. This was unusual, unexpected, and a feeling he had not felt in some time. He was happy, overly happy, and wanted to become, perhaps, even happier... He let his arm drop. My God, I think...I think I have a crush on her!
From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 9/20/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1473 is a reply to message #1472] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:15 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Of all the days in his life, John couldn't remember one of such turbulent emotions. The happiness of the morning had given way to a feeling of complete confusion, which in turn had given him a temper roughly equivalent to a bear with a branch stuck in its behind.
He had gone on to breakfast as planned, but his jaunty step had been replaced by slow wandering with his hands deep in his pockets. Emotions battled inside of him. The happiness at the thought of being with Kat, just talking to her, stargazing with her, simply holding her hand, still simmered in his mind. The confusion had tainted its edge, however, and John did not know what to do. This was not as simple as having feelings for someone next door or a work colleague. Kat was both, which meant that she was always around, which increased the potential awkwardness and embarrassment from an unrequited affection quite significantly. He was thinking exactly of that when he collided with something large and solid, and sprang back with a yell.
"Whoa, John!" Virgil said, grabbing the top of his brother's flailing arms to stop him falling backwards. "Easy, boy. What's up? Left your eyes in your room?"
John steadied himself and stepped backwards out of reach. He gave Virgil a grin that didn't reach his eyes; a quick exit was necessary to avoid unwanted questions.
"Nothing, Virg," he said. "I just slept badly, that's all. I think I need a good breakfast to wake me up." The lie felt bitter on his tongue. Suddenly he wasn't hungry at all.
He kept the smile up, ignoring the concerned gaze of his brother, until he rounded a corner. It dropped off his face like a slate blown off a roof as he entered the kitchen. He accepted Kyrano's offer of a cup of coffee and leant against one of the counters. The retainer said nothing of his deflated mood. The same could not be said about his siblings gathered around the table. Cherie and Scott were scrutinising him carefully; John knew that look, and decided to beat a fast retreat before they started on him. Gordon, however, never the most diplomatic of people, threw John an amused look.
"You look happy," he said. "Got out of the wrong side of the bed?"
"Something like that."
John drank his coffee with closed eyes. This was not what he wanted right now. He drained the cup and set it down, thanking Kyrano. He made to leave, when Gordon piped up once more.
"Not having breakfast?"
"I'm not hungry," John said.
"That's not like --"
"Leave it, Gordon," John snapped, and strode out of the kitchen without a backward glance.
His face burned and his fists clenched in fury at himself. He wanted to go and apologise, but his legs carried him all the way down to the poolside, blissfully empty so early in the morning. He fell into a recliner and ran a hand over his face, pulling at his features. Why was he overreacting so much? He folded his arms and stared off across the pool. The sea in the distance was flat; he wished his mind echoed the calm. Why are you acting like a hormonal teenager? he asked himself. But he knew the answer. A battle was ongoing in his head. The white armoured champions of his feelings charged headlong into the darker warriors of worry. There was no doubt about it. He definitely wanted to be with Kat. It was as clear as the cloudless sky above him. If the situation was different, if they didn't live in such close quarters on the island, John wouldn't have had a second thought about asking her out. But the fact was that they did, and so he could do nothing. I'm not going to ruin Dad's dream, he thought. I'm not going to jeopardise the team by throwing a wrench in the middle of my friendship with Kat. What if she doesn't want to be with me? What if I make her really awkward? And then everyone will start asking questions... I'll be mortified.
It was settled in his mind that he would do nothing. His white champions were firmly stamped down. That didn't mean he stopped feeling for her, however. In fact, it seemed to make him feel even more strongly. You've seen Romeo and Juliet, he thought. Unrequited love didn't get him anywhere. In fact, neither did true love... It had always been a minor thought that with the arrival of the new recruits some couplings could occur. John, however, had never thought that he would be involved in any.
He lay back and closed his eyes against the rising sun.
"What am I going to do?"
From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 9/20/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1474 is a reply to message #1473] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:15 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Scott sped up as he saw his towheaded brother flop down into the lounger by the pool. Even from his view at the top of the steps from the balcony, he could see John's frustration. Scott's brows tightened. What on earth is the matter with him? he thought. As he neared his brother's side he heard a muttered, "What am I going to do?"
"What am I going to do with you?" He asked with a slight smile.
John jumped up as if burned and nearly feel sideways off the lounger.
"Don't do that," he said, clutching at his chest.
Scott shrugged and sat down on the side of the lounger next to John's and laced his fingers together, arms resting on his knees.
"Care to let me know what that was all about in the kitchen?" He asked.
Scott had played this game before more times than he could count. Sometimes he felt like 'Auntie Scott', forever the shoulder for all his brothers. John settled himself back on the lounger, composing his face into a look of unconcerned calm.
"Nothing," he said, looking into the distance. "I just wasn't hungry, that's all."
The look didn't fool Scott for one moment; as if that wasn't enough, John's stomach gave a loud protest at the lie. Scott shook his head as his brother coloured. John glanced over, and Scott pinned him with his best 'don't-give-me-that-bull-just-tell-me-the-truth' look, and as planned, John deflated like a punctured beach ball. Scott softened his gaze. Jackpot, he thought.
"I never thought it would happen," John said, looking back out to the horizon. He seemed to be talking more to himself. "I mean, I knew it could happen, but I didn't think it would happen to me..."
"Care to let me know what 'it' is?" Scott asked.
"It's bad, Scott, really bad. I can't believe it..."
Countless situations began to whiz through Scott's mind, getting progressively more serious with every idea. What John in trouble? What was he keeping from them all? Was he sick?
"For goodness' sake John, what?" he asked irritably.
John turned to him, his eyes almost mournful. Scott's heart skipped a beat. What was wrong?
"I think...no, I know...I...IhavefeelingsforKat!"
It took Scott a few moments to take in the information. It was far from what he was expecting, and the relief, annoyance, and hilarity he felt burst out in one bark of laughter. John scowled at him.
"It's not funny, Scott!" He said.
"Oh, it is," Scott said around his laughter. "I thought... You had me expecting the worst! That's all that this is about?" He asked, schooling his face into a more sombre expression.
"Yes, it is!"
Scott lent forward and lightly smacked the side of John's head, grinning widely.
"That's my John all right," he said. John looked even more confused than before, so Scott continued. "Why are you making such a big deal out of this? It isn't even new news to me!"
"What? Well, it was to me this morning!" John was becoming more irritated.
Scott chuckled.
"I can read you like an open book, John Tracy," he said. "Me and Virgil were discussing it just yesterday."
"Virgil knows too?" John asked.
"And Gordon. He's probably told Alan, as well. And I'm pretty sure Grandma knows."
John's eyes were practically bulging out of his head. It made Scott chuckle even harder.
"Man, John, lighten up? Why are you so stressed about this?"
"Why? Why not? There's every chance that this'll mess everything up! What if I make a move on her, and she doesn't reciprocate? What if it makes her feel so awkward that she decides to leave the island? It has the potential to ruin Father's plans."
Scott shook his head and sighed. Typical John.
"Johnny, listen to me. You're blowing this all out of proportion. You won't ruin things for Dad, no way. With the new recruits, it was inevitable that there would be some relationships. And if something goes wrong? It doesn't have to end in another departure. Look at Alan and Tin-Tin. They broke up, and the world didn't cave in, did it? And believe me, John, you're blind if you don't think she wants to get to know you better, at least."
John blinked.
"Really?"
"Yes, really."
John sounded much more like himself now. Scott grinned, and reached across to pat John's shoulder. Crisis averted, he thought. Chalk another victory up to Auntie Scott.
From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 9/20/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1475 is a reply to message #1474] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:16 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Thursday May 10 2068, 1.45pm, Tracy Island
Idle tinkling filled the quiet of the lounge as Virgil's fingers wandered over the ivories. He sat in half a doze, not really wanting to play a particular tune. They had been enjoying a few weeks of blessed downtime; other than training the newbies, there wasn't much to do. That was something Virgil was not complaining about.
His mind wandered with his fingers, and he thought back to that morning. Something was bugging Johnny, that was for sure. Gordon had recounted the incident in the kitchen, sounding a little stung. He had said that Scott went after him; thus Virgil knew he would fine out what was wrong soon enough.
As if beckoned by some strange psychic bond, Scott appeared in the doorway and made a beeline straight for the piano. Virgil stilled his fingers and sat up, lifted from his doze. Scott was grinning and shaking his head slightly. Virgil looked at his inquiringly, and Scott leant on the piano's edge with his eyebrows raised.
"Well?" Virgil asked.
"We were right."
Suddenly everything clicked, as if a key had been turned in a lock.
"Ah ha," Virgil said. "I knew we were onto something."
"Yep. And, in typical Johnny fashion, he blew it waaay out of proportion. The way he was talking at first, I thought there was something seriously wrong! He was babbling on about screwing up Dad's plans. I pointed out that it hadn't happened when Alan and Tin-Tin split up, and it wouldn't happen now."
Virgil hummed a little and rubbed his chin.
"Sooo, we've got one potential pairing. Who's up next?"
"Search me," Scott said. "But I'm sure another will present itself soon enough."
"Oh really," Virgil said with a pointed look.
"That's not what I meant!" Scott said.
"Uh huh."
"Really!"
"Uh huh."
"Stop that Virg."
"Uh huh!"
"Virgil!"
From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 9/20/2005 5:42 AM
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1476 is a reply to message #1475] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:16 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Friday, May 11, 2068, 11:00, p.m. local time, Los Angeles, California
"Hmmmm."
Dianne sighed with contentment as she slipped into the hot, perfumed waters of the Jacuzzi. They had started their flight back to the island, racing the sun to the West Coast, where Jeff wined and dined her as a final touch to her weeklong birthday celebration. They had taken a luxury hotel suite for a overnight stay, and would resume their journey in the morning.
The door slid open, and Jeff came in, wrapped up in one of the thirsty white terrycloth bathrobes that the hotel provided. Dianne glanced over at him, looking him up and down once before closing her eyes again in relaxation.
"So, dear heart, how was your birthday?" he asked, sitting down on the tiled edge of the hot tub.
"Refreshing. Revealing. One of the best birthdays I can remember," she said with a satisfied sigh.
"Just one of the best birthdays?" he asked.
"Yes, well, it won't compare to having a baby in my arms for a birthday gift," she elaborated.
Jeff nodded sagely, though she couldn't see it. "Ah, I see. So, if I can give you a baby for next year's birthday..."
Dianne opened her eyes and gave him an exasperated look. "Don't even think about it."
He chuckled, and she relaxed back into the water at the sound. "All right, I won't. I haven't forgotten that we both agreed we're too old to start another family... which would be the result of our having a child at our respective ages. Not to mention the fact that one or the other of the kid's older brothers might make us grandparents before the kid got into kindergarten." He paused, watching her close her eyes again and smile. "What about the cottage?"
"Ohhh, it was lovely, Jeff," she murmured. "I'd love to stay there during ski season. Or maybe visit during the fall. The foliage in that area is supposed to be spectacular."
"I'll keep that in mind," he replied. He moved closer to her and put his fingers in the hot water, smoothing a dripping digit along the edges of her face, tracing the lines of cheek and jawbone then following her exposed neck down to lightly brush each collarbone.
"Hmmmm," she sighed again, this time sounding less like a sigh and more like a low moan.
He lowered his lips to hers and grazed her soft, open mouth with them, teasing her with the contact until finally they came together with a gentle yet passionate kiss. She kept her eyes closed and heard a rustling, then the sound of the water rippling quietly as he entered the tub. His hands cupped her face and he planted another, firmer kiss on her lips, tongue rubbing on the surface, begging for entry. She allowed it, and brought her head up from where it was resting, opening her eyes to gaze at him. Her wet hands smoothed his hair back from the temples and followed the curve of his head to clasp behind his neck.
"Hmmmm," he sighed, sounding much as she had a moment earlier. She smiled, and came to him, the two of them holding each other close in the steamy, scented waters, loving each other in an exquisite moment of peace and passion.
From: Tikatu Sent: 9/22/2005 8:39 PM
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1477 is a reply to message #1476] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:16 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
]******Saturday, May 12, 2068; Thunderbird Five; 4:30 p.m. (Tracy Island time)******[/I]
Callie had been flagging calls most of the day, none of them requiring assistance from International Rescue. Despite the tornado outbreak in the Midwest several days earlier, many people had heeded the warnings and only a few needed rescue, all of which were handled by local units.
As dinner time approached, she took a break and started preparing her meal. She passed a photograph of herself and her family and suddenly realized that the next day was Mother's Day. "Oh, goodness, I didn't even think about getting Mom a present. I don't know if I can get her one this late in the game."
She sat down to where her photo was and looked at it closely. It was when she had received her Master's Degree from M.I.T. "Mom has always been one of my strongest supporters when it came to reaching my goals..."
******Flashback to May 22, 2066; Massachusetts Institute of Technology******
"Callie Louise Spencer," said the school president as she walked up to accept her Master's Degree in Communications Engineering just six months after earning her Master's in Bioengineering. "Congratulations, Miss Spencer."
"Thank you, sir," she said as she took the leather-bound folder from one of his hands and shook the other. After the ceremony ended, Callie went to join her parents and two brothers. "The day's finally arrived!" she exclaimed.
Lorraine smiled at her daughter. "Oh, honey, we're all so proud of you and all you've accomplished." She held up an envelope. "The World Space Agency sent this to our house by mistake instead of to you here at M.I.T. Did you put your home address on your resumé?"
"Yes, I did," Callie said. "I figured I'd be temporarily working with you in the steel business until I got a response from the WSA. I didn't know it would come so quickly. I sure hope it's not a rejection letter."
Her father, Richard, said, "Don't keep us in suspense, sweetie. Go on, open it."
Callie opened the envelope and looked at the letter. Thoroughly reading the message, her eyes lit up with more excitement. "I can't believe it! The World Space Agency has accepted my application and wants me to start training in two weeks at their home base in Space City!"
"You're kidding!" yelled Brian. "That's awesome!"
Her mother hugged her. "Sweetheart, this is one of the greatest moments you can have in your life. I'm so glad you didn't give up on your dreams."
"Mom, I owe you so much." Callie cried tears of joy. "When all those kids picked on me because of my goals, you were the first person to tell me not to stop believing in myself. You pushed me harder to succeed, and even though I won't be going into the steel business with you, I'm grateful to you for being there for me."
"Honey, you don't owe anything to me or anyone else. You did all the hard work on your own, and I can't wait for us to hear from you when you do reach Space City. We couldn't be any prouder than we already are."
******Flashback Ends******
Callie smiled and decided to write a special e-mail to her mother after she finished supper.
About 30 minutes after her meal, she sat down at the computer to first check for websites that delivered flowers and gifts for Mother's Day. After seeing a package with a dozen white roses and a sparkling silver necklace, she ordered it and made sure it would be delivered to her mother at the right address. Satisfied with her results, she typed up her e-mail.
Hi, Mom!
I just wanted to say Happy Mother's Day to you. I've never forgetten what you have done for me in my life. You have always been there for me through all my ups and downs. If it weren't for you, I really don't know where I would be right now. Even when there were days when I didn't act like I was appreciative, deep down I've always appreciated you and everything you do. You'll be receiving something from me on Sunday. I know this e-mail and the present would never be enough to tell you how much I love you. I hope your Mother's Day will be special.
With love,
Your daughter Callie
A satisfied smile on her face, she clicked "Send" to deliver the message to her mother back in her hometown of Opp.
From: TracyFan4Ever Sent: 9/22/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1478 is a reply to message #1477] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:17 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Sunday, May 13, 2068, 9:00 a.m., Tracy Island
"Happy Mother's Day!" Jeff said, beaming at his mother as he came into the dining room, a bouquet of roses in one hand.
"Oh, my!" Emily cried. "I wasn't sure you'd get home in time!"
He leaned over to kiss her, and presented her with the flowers. "We managed. And now we're ready for a second breakfast."
Dianne glanced up from where she was presenting Lisa with a similar bouquet. "You'd better get on into the kitchen then, Jeff. After all, the tradition is that the children make the breakfast for the moms."
Jeff laughed, and disappeared into the kitchen.
She kissed her own mother on the cheek. "Happy Mother's Day, Ma!"
"And to you, too, honey," Lisa replied, smiling as her daughter took the chair beside her. "I think the children have something more planned, perhaps for dinner. They weren't sure when you'd get back."
Dianne exchanged Mother's Day wishes with Emily as Gordon came out of the kitchen, a huge pile of pancakes stacked precariously on the plate he was carrying. "Hey, Mom!" he cried. "Happy Mother's Day!"
"Thank you, Gordon," Dianne said with a smile. She peered over the top of the plate as he served three pancakes to Lisa. "What do we have here?"
"Blueberry pancakes," he explained. "And believe it or not, Scott made them!"
She inspected the pancakes that he slid onto her plate. "Are you sure? They're not burnt."
Gordon chuckled. "Yes, I'm sure. He's got Kyrano out there watching his every move like a hawk! Virgil's frying up bacon, the kids are squeezing orange juice, John's in charge of the coffee, and Alan's doing the fetch-and-carry."
"Well, at least the coffee will be drinkable," Emily commented. "John's got a deft hand with the coffee maker."
"What's Jeff up to?" Lisa asked, cutting into her stack of pancakes with the side of a fork. Gordon left the plate on the table before them and went back into the kitchen.
"Double checking that we have the table set properly," Jeff said as he came out, a small stack of plates in his hands. He counted the places at the table, and did a quick computation, then set two more places just as Tin-Tin and Brains came into the dining room.
"Happy Mother's Day, Mrs. Tracy!" Tin-Tin called, giving the old lady a kiss on the cheek.
"Now, Tin-Tin, I told you a long time ago to call me Grandma!" Emily protested even as she accepted Tin-Tin's kiss. She returned the salute, saying, "Thank you for your lovely wishes, my dear."
"And happy Mother's Day to you, Dianne," the Malaysian girl said with a smile. She came around the table to kiss Lisa on the cheek. "And to you, too, Lisa."
"Thank you, Tin-Tin," Dianne replied, echoed by Lisa a second later. Brains gave the three women a slightly nervous wave, and wished them a happy Mother's Day as well. He spied the plate of pancakes and asked permission to take them down to his end of the table. Dianne watched out of the corner of her eye as the engineer politely served his assistant, who sat next to him with a big smile on her face.
Alan came out with a pitcher full of fresh squeezed orange juice. "Now, if there are any seeds in this, you can blame the kids," he said as he poured glasses for each of the celebrants. He glanced down the table to where Tin-Tin and Brains were talking quietly, then he sighed and marched down to pour juice for them as well.
Dianne leaned across the table to Emily, glancing down the table. "What's going on there?"
"I'm not quite sure," Emily replied, frowning on the sight of the three young people. "But I intend to find out."
"Mom!" came a cry from Tyler as he pelted out to give his mother a near strangle of a hug. "You're home! Happy Mother's Day!"
"Of course she's home, silly!" Alex said, following at a more sedate pace. "You saw Dad in the kitchen." He leaned over to kiss his mother on the cheek. "Happy Mother's Day, Mom."
"Thank you, Alex, Tyler," Dianne returned. She took a bite of her pancake, and a sip of her juice. "You did well with the juice, boys. Where's Cherie?"
"Right here, Mom," said the teen as she brought out a thermal carafe and poured coffee into her mother's cup, then moved onto fill each of her grandmothers' cups. "Happy Mother's Day."
Dianne chuckled. "Thank you, Cherry." She glanced at her mother and mother-in-law. "I have a feeling we're going to hear a lot of that today."
The three women laughed together, then applied themselves to the meal as more food and more family came to join them at the table for the special celebration.
From: Tikatu Sent: 9/24/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1479 is a reply to message #1478] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:17 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Tracy Island, May 14th -- 10.30 a.m.
Kat's phone began to play her familiar pop tune ring tone. Reaching for it, she answered it with, "Kat Williamson."
"Kat, my dear, how are you?" Lady Penelope looked particularly glamorous; her hair was piled up on top in curls, with some falling down over her shoulder, and her diamante drop earrings sparkled as she moved her head.
"Lady Penelope, how lovely to hear from you!" Kat headed for the balcony and sat down on a chair to carry on the conversation.
"Well, I am just ringing to catch up with the latest gossip. I understand you were helping with the tsunami rescue."
"Oh, yes, that rescue. I have never mended so many old generators, nor worked on such archaic vehicles in such a short time. Nor have I been so dirty! I think I have become known on the island as little Miss Grubby!" She laughed.
"Well that must have been a worrying time for the Tracy's, as the wave washed over the island," Lady Penelope remarked.
"Yes, it was. But, I'm sure they found it a relief to know Mrs. Tracy, Kyrano, and the little boys were safe at Bongo-Bongo."
Kat thought about the island when they had returned from the rescue. She remembered the broken catamaran, and could imagine Gordon's face when he saw the state of the boat. She shuddered as she remembered the massive clearing up that they all had to help with.
"So," Lady Penelope asked in her cool manner, "is there any more news?"
"Well, Christopher has gone, been sacked really, but I'm sure you may already be aware of that," Kat answered. She was still unsure as to what had really happened between Christopher and Mr Tracy.
"Oh, my dear! I'm so sorry." From what Jeff had told her, he had entertained high hopes for Mr Jordan.
"I think maybe things started going wrong when Christopher talked to a reporter when we were rescuing the British Prime Minister from Tower Bridge," Kat added, although she didn't sound too convinced. She changed the subject. "Lady Penelope, you remember when I left, Lil gave me a wok as a leaving present?" Kat gave a short laugh "Please tell her that I have had a lesson with Kyrano on learning to cook with a wok."
"How did that go?" Lady Penelope asked.
"Well, the lesson was a success and Kyrano kindly leant me some ingredients. I had intended to cook for my friends. But things didn't go according to plan."
"Oh?" Lady Penelope queried. "What happened?"
"Well, you see I was doing a dummy run for practice, but, um, you see, while the oil was getting hot, I knocked over a glass dish. It broke, and when I went to fetch something to clear the debris away, I sort of forgot about the oil. Suddenly the room was full of smoke and the sprinkler was set off."
Lady Penelope raised her eyebrows, looking surprised. "Oh my dear, really? That doesn't seem such a catastrophe."
"Oh, but it was! You see, my smoke alarm set off the alarms in the villa, and I had John, Virgil and Gordon come running with fire extinguishers to see where the fire was."
Lady Penelope laughed out loud. "Oh, Kat, that could only happen to you!"
"They were very good about it, but I suffered from Gordon's wisecracks and jokes all the next day."
Lady Penelope smiled at Kat. "That is so typical of Gordon, he always has had a sense of mischief about him. The pranks he has played in the past! I would have thought you got off very lightly with him just teasing you. Anyway, my dear, the main purpose of my call is to advise you that a friend of Lofty called and saw your car in the garage. He seemed very interested in purchasing it. Apparently his present Lotus is rather beyond repair and he would dearly like to get another one. I told him that it was not for sale, but he seemed so keen that I promised that I would get in touch with the owner and ask whether it could be sold."
Kat was silent. ~Sell my car? My pride and joy? Oh I couldn't part with it! It was a twenty first birthday present from my parents.
Noting the silence, Lady Penelope continued. "Of course, if you do not wish to sell it, it can remain here. So when you come back for a holiday, it will be there for your use."
"Lady Penelope, could I think about this and let you know?" Kat said quietly. "It would be a wrench to sell it and, to be honest, I don't really need the money at the moment. However, if the gentleman is a keen collector of Lotus Elise's then, well... maybe."
They chatted for a while longer, with Kat enquiring about her parents, then Lady Penelope advised she had to go. She had an appointment to launch a ship, and so the conversation ended.
Kat wandered down to the beach, deep in thought. She loved her little car; it was so speedy and her pride and joy. She was so immersed in her thoughts she didn't see Alan until she almost walked into him.
"Hey, Kat! You look as if you have the weight of the world on your shoulders."
Kat smiled a little. "I have quite a dilemma," she told him.
"Need some help, or friendly advice?" Alan asked as he fell in step with her.
"Alan, have you ever had something that you were really fond of, but knew it was no use to you, and you had the chance of getting rid of it, what would you do?"
Alan looked at Kat. "Hm, I don't quite follow, Kat. Sure, there are lots of things that I have been, and still am fond of. I was extremely fond of motorcar racing. I am fond of my family, and where I live, but apart from the racing, there is no question of getting rid of anything."
Kat looked thoughtful. "Alan," she began, "on my twenty first birthday, my parents gave me a Lotus Elise. It was, still is in fact, my pride and joy. When I left for Tracy Island and International Rescue, Lady Penelope agreed to my car remaining at Creighton-Ward Manor."
"You have a Lotus Elise? Wow!" Alan said. "What a beautiful car! No wonder you are so proud of it. That's one car I would sure love to drive."
"The thing is, though," Kat said, "Lady Penelope has been approached and has been asked to contact the owner, with a view to the car being sold."
"And now you are not sure what to do?" Alan asked gently.
"What would you do, Alan? You like cars; would you get rid of a favourite, in fact, only car?"
Alan hesitated and looked at the young woman walking by his side. "I would say, Kat, go with your gut feeling. Do you really want to sell your prized possession? True, you won't need it now, nor maybe in the future, but I assume that you will occasionally go back for vacations. If you sell your car, I think you will really miss it. If I were you, I would hang on to it for the moment."
Kat smiled at Alan. "Thank you for your advice; it has really made my mind up for me. Yes, I am going to ring Lady Penelope and tell that the car is definitely not for sale."
The two headed back to the villa chatting about cars, mechanics and Grand Prix races. Alan told Kat that he was going to the Monaco Grand Prix later that month. There followed a lively discussion on the present drivers, who were and who weren't doing well, and why.
"I think Pete Johnson, British driver for the McLaren team is so cool. He was just beginning to race in his first season, when Dad and I went to Silverstone last year. He is doing very well," Kat stated.
Alan had to agree, although he told Kat that he really rooted for the American driver for the British-American Racing Team.
With a grin, he said. "Say Kat, how about a little bet on which Driver--your British Pete Johnson or my American Dexter Thompson--gets highest in the points at the end of the season."
"You're on, Alan," Kat grinned back at him and they solemnly shook hands, before continuing back.
From: Tawnyangel22 Sent: 9/24/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1480 is a reply to message #1479] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:18 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Monday, May 14 2068, 1.30pm, the gym, Tracy Island.
Melancholy. That word about summed it up. And this type had nothing to do with black bile. Bloody Medieval people... Dominic arched his back and slipped into another pose, concentrating on his breathing. In...and out...in...and out... He held it for quite some time, willing the built-up tension to evaporate. In...and out...
"AAAAAAAAAAAAH!"
Dom fell out of the pose with a strangled yelp and looked across the room to the source of the cry.
"AHH AHH AHH AHH!"
Apparently, Joshua was no longer asleep. He was wrenching the bars of the spacious play pen Dom had erected in an attempt to get some peace to practice his yoga without handing the child off to someone else. At first it had worked well -- Josh had even gone to sleep! The novelty had worn off now, and Dom clambered to his feet and across the room. Maybe it would work again in future.
"OUT! WANT OUT!"
"Yes, yes Joshua, you'll get out. Now please stop shoutin'."
"NOOO! OUT!"
"Joshua, stop that right now."
"NOOO!"
Red-faced, Joshua threw himself onto the floor of the playpen and beat his heels on the floor. Dominic took a deep breath and stepped over the low gate. Give me strength...
In the past month or so, Joshua had become increasingly bad-tempered. The frustration the child faced every day pained Dominic, but there was nothing he could do. It was a part of growing and learning. Unfortunately, it brought with it tantrums. The phrase 'terrible twos' didn't quite cover it. Dominic grabbed Joshua's soft nap blanket and sat cross-legged on the floor, holding his hands out to the child.
"Come on Josh, that's enough." More wailing. "Josh." Still more crying. "I can sit here longer than you can, you know."
As expected, eventually Joshua gave up -- Dom knew that he would rejoice on the day that he stopped the tantrums for good -- and clambered into his father's lap. Dominic wrapped the blanket around him and stroked his son's blond hair.
"See? There was no reason for that now, was there?"
Joshua snivelled and buried himself further into the blanket. Dom let out a long breath and inhaled deeply. Someone up there is makin' fun of me. He turned Josh around and stood up, surveying the gym. He would come back and clean up later. He pushed his mat and Joshua's things into an out of the way corner with his foot before heading towards the monorail. He didn't really feel like going back to the apartment, however, so he changed course and headed for the pool. Joshua was complacent now. He wondered how long it would last.
Brandon, Alan, and Gordon were sitting at the poolside, the latter two engaged in an unenthusiastic game of chess. Brandon waved as Dom approached, and shot him a questioning glance when he sat down on the recliner with the air of a man who had just run a marathon.
"What's up?" He asked.
Dom attempted to settle Joshua on his lap, but one glimpse of red hair had set his mind afire again, and he jumped off and went straight to Gordon, who hoisted him up into his lap and cast a grin at Dom.
"I dunno. I'm just feelin' a bit out-of-sorts, I 'spose."
"Is the little guy giving you trouble?"
"Aye, but it's to be expected. He's two years and five months old exactly tomorrow." Dom let out a sigh that could only have been described as melancholy, and folded his arms.
"I get the feeling there's something else here, though," Brandon said.
"Hmm. I guess the mother's day stuff kinda threw me, yesterday. I should have been making breakfast and writing cards from Josh. I doubt if he can even remember his mother at all."
"Short-term girlfriend?"
"More like short-term wife."
"Wife?" Brandon asked. "Man, that must have hurt."
"More than you can know."
The conversation tapered off from there, before eventually Dom stood up and stretched.
"Could you keep a wee eye on him for me, Gordon?" He asked. "I've to go do some tidying up."
"Sure thing, Dom," Gordon said.
Brandon watched Dominic's retreating back with a small frown. There always seemed to be things that you didn't know about your friends.
From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 9/24/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1481 is a reply to message #1480] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:18 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Tuesday, May 15, 2068; Washington D.C.; 8:30 AM (12:30 AM May 16 on Tracy Island)
Tom knocked on Lena's open door and she looked up and smiled at him. He said, "Lena, do you have a minute? There's something going on out here that you should see."
Curious, she got up and followed him out into the cubicle area. Everyone on her staff was standing around a table where they had a cake and balloons. "SURPRISE! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" they all shouted.
Laughing, she shook her head. "You didn't have to do dis. You people are too much."
"Oh, come on now. We have birthday parties for everyone in our department. Why would we not have one for our boss?" Louise brought out a box from behind her and handed it to Lena. "Happy Birthday, and many more."
"What on eart?" Lena untied the bow and lifted the lid. She found a plaque inside that read, "To Our Boss on the Anniversary of the Day the World was Graced With Her Presence". It also had the date and the signatures of every one in her department. "Tank you," she said, tears coming to her eyes, "Dis is wonderful. I'll put it where I can see it every day I'm in de office."
Everyone applauded and Tom said, "Okay, Lena; enough with the emotional outburst." He grinned at her. "Time to cut the cake." He held out the knife.
She chuckled and took it from him, moving to the table. A few minutes later everyone had a piece of cake and some coffee, or tea. They ate and chatted, and every once in a while, one or another of them moved off to take a call.
Louise asked her, "Do you have any plans for after work?"
"My family and I are getting togetter at my son's house for a quiet celebration. Since it's on a weekday, de kids have school and de adults have to be at work de next day, it will be small and end early."
"That's good. Often the best celebrations are the small, quiet ones."
The group chatted and celebrated until 9 AM, then Lena went back to her office, followed by more good wishes from her staff. Then everyone got back to work, but the good feeling lasted through the rest of the day.
From: Hobbeth Sent: 9/27/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1482 is a reply to message #1481] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:18 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
]******Wednesday, May 16, 2068; Thunderbird Five; 1:30 p.m. (Tracy Island time; 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 15, somewhere in Nebraska)******[/I]
Callie was having another hard day of flagging calls, checking which seemed to be of higher priority. Then, she heard what sounded like a child's voice. "Calling International Rescue, can you hear me?"
She opened communications and said, "This is International Rescue. What is your emergency?"
"Wow! You can really hear me?"
"Yes, I can. Can you tell me what the problem is?"
"Gee, I didn't know they had women. Is this really International Rescue?"
"Yes, I promise you, you have reached the right organization. But you have to tell me what's wrong, or I can't help you."
"Oh. I'm sorry. It's my teacher. I'm in the sixth grade. She's assigned us to write an interview, or mock interview, with a hero. All the others are writing about rock stars, or athletes. Susie Jenkins is even writing one about a person who's dead! I think her name is Marie Curie. But I want to write about you guys. You don't mind if I use the word 'guys', do you? I know some girls don't like to be called that."
"I don't mind at all." Callie had to let go of the button. "How do I respond to this? It's not an emergency."
"Are you there, International Rescue? Can you help me? Pleeeeeaaaassssee?
Pressing the button again, she said, "Stand by, please." She pressed another button and said, "Base from Thunderbird Five, come in, Base."
Jeff was sitting at the desk when the eyes of John's picture began to flash. He hit the switch that connected him to Callie. "Thunderbird Five, this is Base. What's the emergency, Ursa?"
"Base, I have a sixth-grader sending a call, but it's not an emergency. I know the rule is to turn it down. The problem is this is for a report on heroes, and he's chosen International Rescue. I'm not sure how to respond properly to him."
Jeff's eyebrows rose in surprise, then he began to chuckle. "I'm not sure this has ever happened before. Stay on the line; I'm going to call Quasar. He may have had experience in this." He muted communications and placed the call to John.
Two minutes later, the young man hurried into the room and over to Jeff's desk. He turned to his portrait - which now showed Callie - and said, "Hey, Ursa. What's up?"
"Have you ever had to respond to a call like this? A sixth-grader wants to do a report on us, but I'm not sure what to say to him without giving away secrets." She shrugged. "Can you help me out on this one, Quasar?"
"Are you sure this kid is the real thing? I've had a couple of calls, but it turned out to be an attempt by reporters to get some information that would have compromised our security."
"He sounds like a genuine sixth-grader. Even the 'pleeeeease' sounds authentic. What should I do to confirm he is in fact a sixth-grader and not another reporter?"
"Actually, I don't think you can. They pay kids to ask questions they write out. Only when he or she asks one that you feel is out of line, will you know."
"International Rescue? Are you still there? I've got to get this done tonight. The assignment is due tomorrow. Please help me."
"I tell you what," John said, when he heard the voice. "Go ahead and agree to the 'interview', and I'll listen in. Keep an eye on the screen. I'll signal you if the question is not one you can answer."
"F-A-B, Quasar." She pressed a button to respond to the boy. "Young man, you have your interview. Just keep in mind that there will be questions I may not be able to answer for security reasons."
"I understand, Miss. How can you tell if there's a real emergency and not a false alarm?"
"We have a way of monitoring all communications and know about potential emergencies before we get a call. So we can pretty much tell. And if we can't and decide to go, the person who arrives at the location first can."
"Okay. Next question: How many people are part of International Rescue?"
Callie looked at John, who shook his head. "Before I answer that, what's your name?"
"Peter Fink. But I ain't one - a fink, I mean."
Callie smiled, and so did John. "Well, Peter-not-a-fink, I can't tell you the answer to that question. All I can say is that we feel we have enough to handle just about any situation we might encounter."
Peter chuckled before asking the next question. "Why did International Rescue get started in the first place?"
Startled, she looked up at her screen, to see John make a slashing movement. She told Peter to hold on; she had to take another call. She muted him and looked questioningly at John.
"The answer to that question could be considered another security breach. Just tell him the founders felt there was a need, and were able to come up with the means to meet that need."
Callie nodded and, opening the channel, repeated what John told her.
"I'm glad the founders did start it, or a lot of other people wouldn't be alive right now. I have one last question. If the world runs out of people needing to be saved, would you continue with International Rescue?"
The question startled a laugh out of Callie. "Peter, I doubt that would ever happen. All I can say is that International Rescue will be around as long as it's needed. And that's something you and anyone else can quote me on." She saw John nodding in approval at her statement.
Peter smiled. "Thank you, International Rescue. This'll make a great report."
"Glad to assist, Peter. Good luck with your report."
"Thanks. Oh, I just thought of something. Are you the only girl - er, lady - in International Rescue?"
John nodded at her and mouthed, "Don't tell him how many there are, though."
She nodded back and replied, "No, I'm not. But that's all I can tell you."
"Okay. Thanks again. Goodbye."
"Goodbye, Mr. Not-a-Fink."
Peter laughed as he turned off his radio. "Now I've got a great report to turn in tomorrow."
Callie terminated the call at her end and turned back to the screen. "Thanks for your help, Quasar."
"You're welcome, but I think you would have managed on your own. Interesting that you had something happen to you on your tour that never occurred when either Indy or I was aboard Five."
Jeff, who had watched and listened to the whole thing, agreed, saying, "You did very well."
******By TracyFan4Ever and Hobbeth.******
From: TracyFan4Ever Sent: 9/29/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1484 is a reply to message #1482] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:19 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Tracy Island, Thursday, May 17th - 10.30 a.m.
Kat looked at her watch, only five minutes more. She had been working steadily on the treadmill. Her hair was caught back in a wide bandana, and she was wearing shorts and T-shirt; she was working at a steady run. ~Phew~ she thought, ~here's me thinking that I was fit... Slowing the machine down so that she was doing a brisk walk, she kept the rhythm going, not noticing Dom entering the Gym.
Dom watched her for a few moments before heading for the weights. Eventually Kat brought the machine to a halt, and grabbing a towel, wiped her face and hands. As she headed for the water machine, she caught sight of Dom working with the weights. Strolling over to him, she marvelled at his lean, lithe frame.
Flopping down beside him, Kat could barely speak.
"Working hard?" Dom asked, smiling at her.
"Gosh! There must be an easier way of keeping fit," she said, still fighting for breath.
"Try some weights," Dom suggested, reaching for a pair of light weights and handing them to Kat.
Showing her how to work with them, the two worked in silence for a few minutes.
"Dom?" Kat asked. "Didn't Brandon, or maybe it was Gordon, say that you do Yoga?"
"Sure, I practice Yoga," Dom replied.
"I'd love to try it," Kat said.
Without further ado, Dom put down the weights and showed Kat the lotus position. Kat tried to copy, but could only get one knee in the correct position, and try as she might, she could not quite get her other knee across.
"Dom, would you give me some Yoga lessons?" She asked. "In fact I am sure that you could give us all Yoga lessons." She continued eagerly.
Dom smiled nervously, and rubbed the back of his neck. "I guess so," he said. "I've never given lessons before, but I'll do my best! Tell the others if you like, the more the merrier."
Dom helped himself to a drink before taking up the weights again.
"Where's Josh?" Kat asked.
"Oh, Cherie and Mrs Tracy are babysitting at the moment. I think that they are taking him to see Durian."
"You know, if ever you want some time to yourself, I know I would gladly baby-sit. I love having him around.." Kat told him.
"How are you with stories?" Dom laughed as he answered her question.
"Oh, um, well, I can read a story, I'm not much good at making up my own stories."
"That would be fine, although some of his favourite stories he knows by heart, so if you want to skip a few pages to read the book more quickly, he will soon let you know."
Kat laughed. "I can just imagine Josh telling someone off for rushing his story."
"Of course, you could always sing to him." Dom said, a twinkle in his eye.
Kat groaned. "I don't think so, although it would be nice to get my guitar out, I haven't unpacked it since arriving here."
Dom grinned, "maybe we could have a musical evening, Virgil on the piano and you on the guitar."
Kat rolled her eyes. "No way, I'm not playing my guitar alongside Virgil on the piano. He is a very good pianist, I couldn't hope to compete with him."
Just then Cherie and Mrs Tracy appeared with Josh.
"Dada, kitty," Josh was trying to say.
"He wanted to bring Durian back with him." Cherie explained.
Dom and Kat both laughed. "I guess you may have a pet in your apartment yet." Kat said.
Kat collected her shoes and towel and calling goodbye to the others, headed back to her apartment.
From: Tawnyangel22 Sent: 10/1/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1485 is a reply to message #1484] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:20 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Friday, 18th May, 2068, Tracy Island, 3:20pm
Outside, Nikki and Elise were relaxing on the balcony conversing about anything and everything. It started off with Nikki talking about her flight training that day. It didn't take long for them to get onto the subject of life before Tracy Island. Nikki spoke very fondly about her friends and workmates back in England. A few times, they laughed about the antics they got up to.
"You did what?"
"I know, I know, a really dumb thing to do but I was seventeen and I wasn't thinking about the consequences. I was really..."
"Dumb?" Elise repeated Nikki's word from earlier while she laughed. "I can just picture you falling asleep on that street corner and your friend picking you up and carrying you on his shoulder."
"Yeah, well, it wasn't funny back then. I was going to get a cab home but a mate of mine cancelled it and decided to call my mum to pick me up. She was so disappointed, but she didn't chew me out which was weird. I never wanted to touch another drink after that. But then my eighteenth birthday came up that month and, of course, eighteen is when you become legal in England. At least I was sensible during that night." Nikki smiled. "But you know what? Whenever there was a party, my best friend always reminded me about that incident."
"That's what best friends are for," Elise remarked. They both fell silent for a little while before Elise spoke up again. "I enjoyed this chat. We should get all the girls together and just have a girls' night. And not just with us newbie women either. It could be a way to get to know each other better than we already do."
"That sounds good. We could have it in my apartment. But when?"
"How about for Kat's birthday."
"You're on. Though I doubt I'll be repeating that story."
"Oh, come on."
"It's embarrassing."
"That's what makes it good." Elise dodged a flying cushion and walked inside to get herself a drink.
From: Nikki-browneyes1 Sent: 10/3/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1486 is a reply to message #1485] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:20 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Saturday, May 19, 2068, 8:20 a.m., Tracy Island
John didn't look up from his packing as the door buzzer rang. "Come in," he said in a distracted tone. He heard the door swish open, then the quick light thudding of footsteps on the carpet. A thin body tackled him from behind and a skinny pair of arms wrapped around his chest. The force really wasn't enough to knock him over, but John knew how to play this game and fell onto his bed, missing the garment bag he had spread on it.
"Gotcha!" Tyler cried gleefully.
John laughed. "You sure did, Spud! Now, are you going to let me up or do I have to.... tickle you!" He reached down to the boy's exposed side and began to run his fingers up and down Tyler's ribs like a fast moving spider.
"No!" Tyler shouted between peals of laughter. "No tickles!" He laughed some more as John tapered off on tickling him. Once the tickling had completely stopped, Tyler levered himself off of his bigger brother, still breathless from the exertion.
John rolled over and came to a sitting position on the bed. The boy joined him. Looking at the garment bag, Tyler asked, "Where're you going?"
"Monte Carlo," John answered. "To watch a Grand Prix race."
"Monte Carlo... that's one of the tiny postage stamp countries in Europe, isn't it?"
"Yes, and no, Spud. It's a city in one of those teeny-tiny countries. The country is named Monaco."
"Oh, okay," Tyler said. He got up to peek inside John's garment bag. "Is Alan going, too?"
"Yep," John replied, returning to his packing. "I didn't get to go to Alan's birthday party, so he's invited me to share part of his present from Dad and Mom. He and I haven't had much opportunity to spend time together, until now."
"How long will you be gone?" Tyler asked, flopping down on the bed next to the garment bag.
"Just the weekend. The race only takes a day." John went to his closet and brought out a dressy suit with a double breasted, ivory jacket, and a dark blue shirt to wear with it.
"Why the suit?" the boy asked quizzically.
"Oh, I think we're going to the casino while we're there and it's usually a dress-up occasion to go there in Monte Carlo," John replied absently, adding a black tie to the dark blue shirt. "There, that should do."
"Can you bring something back for me?" Tyler asked. "Maybe a t-shirt or something?"
John ruffled the boy's stiff hair. "I suppose I can. I promised Kat I'd bring something back for her. She's really into auto racing, it seems."
"Kat? Into car racing? But she's a girl," Tyler said in disgust. "Girls aren't supposed to be into racing cars."
John laughed. "Spud, when it comes to women, you have a lot to learn."
"I hope I never have to learn it," Tyler muttered. He looked at his brother with a speculative eye. "Hey, how come she asked you to get something and not Alan?"
The older brother's eyebrow went up. "Well, why did you ask me and not Alan?"
Tyler rolled his eyes. "Duh! Because you're my favorite big brother, that's why!"
"Well then, Kat probably asked me because... because we're friends. Yeah. That's it. We're friends." John gave Tyler a smile.
The boy sighed. "Don't tell me you're going to get all kissy-face with her."
"Well, maybe," John drawled. "It all depends."
"Depends on what?"
"I don't know yet. We'll see," was the cryptic reply. The blond glanced over at the boy and said, "I promise I'll bring back something for you, too. Now amscray so I can finish packing."
"All right," Tyler said, slouching his way out of the room. He made kissing noises at John's back as he left, then hurried away as his older brother turned to throw a balled up pair of clean socks at him. The socks hit the door frame and bounced off, and a cheeky Tyler stuck his head back into the doorway with his hands stuck like antlers to his head and wiggling. "Neener, neener, neener," he said in sing-song. "You ca-an't hit me!"
John threw another sock ball at him and missed again, and Tyler took off down the hall toward the lounge, laughing. The blond stuck his head out the door in time to see the boy slam through the double doors at the end of the hall. Tyler paused one more time to stick out his tongue, then he disappeared.
The man shook his head and sighed, then went back to packing. "Kids," he muttered as he retrieved his socks.
Tyler passed out into the open air, and slowed down. "Kat! Hmph!" he said in disgust, huffing a breath. "Blech. If John gets all kissy-face with her, he won't have time for me." He sighed heavily. "But what can I do about it? All the big boys are gonna get kissy-face with someone sometime. Still... I don't know. We'll see how things go. If he makes time for me, then fine. If not... well... we'll see."
From: Tikatu Sent: 10/3/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1487 is a reply to message #1486] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:21 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
MONACO GRAND PRIX - PART ONE
Tracy Island, May 19th 2068
Alan and John settled themselves for the flight to Monaco." So, we are going to the casino tonight?" John queried.
"Yep, we sure are," Alan replied, "and according to Kenny, there are some real cool babes working as croupiers."
John smiled to himself; he was certainly looking forward to a few days away. He thought back to the day that Alan had asked if he would like to accompany him to the Monaco Grand Prix. They were on the return to base, having left Callie on Thunderbird to do her month's duty. John had been delighted to accept. Before they left the island, Kat had asked if he could possibly buy her a shirt or some other souvenir from the Jordan team. She had explained that she thought their British driver was cool. John had agreed to buy something for her. He hoped to find something really unique, and possibly get an autograph, too.
"So, John," Alan broke into his thoughts, "What do you make of our new recruits?"
John hesitated, then, "Well, Brandon and Dom have settled in; they seem to be fitting in. It's a pity about Christopher; he had the makings of a fine Thunderbird pilot."
"No, John, not the males, the females. I'm not interested in how Brandon and Dom have settled in."
John laughed. "Well, you didn't make yourself clear."
"Honestly, John, I don't want to discuss the males. Now what about the females?"
"Callie is very nice, very competent; she was very good working with me on Thunderbird Five. I have no concerns about her working up there on her own. She was excellent company; we discussed all manner of things, and we even had a bet on whose basketball team would win."
"So, whose did?" Alan asked.
"Hers," John replied, "but instead of making me do the chores, which the loser would have done, we shared, which was nice of her."
"I find Nikki very nice," Alan said, rather quietly.
"Oh?" John queried. "Nothing more?"
"We've had one or two chats, and I suspect that she had got the better of me on more than one occasion."
"She's a very good and conscientious nurse," John added.
Alan laughed. "And she had very definite views on the male population."
"Elise is very nice, although I haven't had much to do with her," John said. "I'm glad to see her coming along in her training on Two. I wonder how she'll do with Scott, training on One."
"That leaves Kat," Alan said.
"Ah yes, our mechanic," John replied. "We've talked a few times." Alan smiled.
"Well, I brought her to the island and returned her back home. I was the one who broke it to her about International Rescue. The other new recruits all knew, but for some reason Kat was quite unaware."
Alan raised his eyebrows. "I didn't know that."
"Well, she wasn't told about International Rescue until she had accepted the job. She was very hurt and angry when I told her. But that's history."
Alan just gave him a look. John turned to look out of the window. "She was very cut up about her mother having a serious operation. I called on her to offer my support, and we chatted for quite a while."
"Hmm. I had a conversation with her, too, recently. She asked my advice on whether or not to sell her Lotus Elise."
"And what did you tell her?"
"Not to sell. She considers it a prized possession and she should keep it."
"Hey!" John said with a smirk. "A first from you: good advice!"
Alan rolled his eyes as John laughed. Then the two brothers fell silent. Alan concentrating on piloting the jet, and John thinking about Kat. He had been more than a little surprised when he had confessed to Scott that he had feelings for her, only to be informed that Scott already knew. In fact, Scott had implied that Virgil, Gordon and Alan, not to mention Mrs Tracy, were aware. ~I wonder who else has seen it?
From: Tawnyangel22 Sent: 10/5/2005 3:40 PM
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1488 is a reply to message #1487] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:21 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Tracy Island, Saturday May 19th, 4:15 p.m
Brandon sat by the swimming pool checking his dive gear. Gordon had told him about a coral reef on the other side of the island and he wanted to check it out. He was so preoccupied with making sure everything was working properly that he didn't hear footsteps behind him.
"Hi, Brandon," Kat came and sat down beside him. "Are you going to try out your gear in the pool? I'd love to watch you. If you have time, would you teach me?"
Brandon looked over at Kat's eager face and shook his head. "Sorry, not this time." He then explained where he was going.
Kat looked rather sad. Then she brightened up. "Would you let me accompany you? I could just sunbathe and watch you at the same time. It's rather quiet at the moment with Callie in Thunderbird Five and Alan and John away at the Monaco Grand Prix. Everyone else seems occupied at the moment."
Brandon thought a moment. He liked diving solo but at the same time he didn't want to disappoint Kat. Finally he spoke up. "I have a better idea. How about we go snorkeling instead? That way you can enjoy the underwater beauty."
For a moment Kat's face lit up and then she looked unsure. "Actually, I haven't done much snorkeling, and I don't have any equipment of my own. Do you think I could borrow some from the Tracys? I'm sure they must have some spare equipment."
Brandon smiled reassuringly. "I'm sure Mr. Tracy won't mind you borrowing some equipment. Then you can practice in the pool before we go."
Kat's face brightened. "Thank you, Brandon. I'll go ask Mr. Tracy straight away and be back in a few minutes."
It wasn't long before Kat reappeared, a smile on her face. "There is plenty of equipment in that huge box at the far end of the pool." Brandon went along with her and, after much laughing and joking, managed to find some equipment that she was comfortable with. Then Kat followed Brandon back towards the edge of the pool. Standing on the edge, Kat remarked, "Okay, now what?"
"Now we get into the water," he replied in a deadpan voice. Kat blushed and followed him into the water. "Okay, you need to make sure you mask is tight. You don't want it to flood." Brandon knew what he was talking about. It had happened to him several times and it was not a pleasant experience. After making sure her mask was secure, he taught her the basics of how to breathe through the narrow plastic tube.
Slowly, Kat followed Brandon, gently placing her face under the water, and moving along at a slow pace. When they reached the end of the pool, they both stood in the shallow water. "Now, can we go snorkeling in the sea?" Kat asked, her enthusiasm showing.
"We'll do a few more passes in the pool to make sure you're ready, then we'll go." Brandon pushed himself off the side of the pool, Kat following behind him.
Kat and Brandon swam two more lengths. She was fit, but the effort of keeping her face and body under the water whilst swimming hard to keep up with Brandon, made her breathless.
"Hey, wait a minute. I need to catch my breath."
Brandon stopped swimming. "Sorry, Kat. I just wasn't thinking."
After a short breather, the two continued swimming up and down the pool. Eventually Brandon stopped swimming and said, "Okay, Kat, let's head for the beach."
The cabin cruiser approached the other side of the island, Brandon at the controls, with Kat standing beside him. Occasionally they would look across the water, seeing a pod of dolphins swimming in the distance. Finally, they arrived at their location and prepared to swim. She watched him in disgust as he spit in his mask and rinsed it off in the water.
"That's gross," Kat remarked as Brandon looked up at her with an amused look on his face.
"Hey, I know it looks bad, but it keeps the mask from fogging up."
Even though she felt disgusted at what he did, she thought that she had better do the same.
"Okay, Kat," Brandon said, replacing his mask. "Now just follow me." Going to the side of the boat, Brandon stepped down the boarding ladder, Kat following behind him.
They cleared the water from the snorkels and began a slow leisurely swim to the reef. Kat stared in amazement at what she saw. The brightly colored tropical fish swam to and fro, some disturbed by the human intruders.
The sea was a clear turquoise blue, and the fronds of seaweed and anenomes waved gently in the slow underwater currents. It was breathtakingly beautiful. When they arrived at the reef, the colours of the different corals looked almost luminescent in the clear water around them. Ooh, Kat thought, this is awesome.
For about an hour they swam around the reef, marveling at nature's colors. There was a moment when a large fish swam by them, surprising the two swimmers. Finally the water began to darken, telling them that it was time to head back.
The two climbed back on board the cabin cruiser. Taking off their masks and flippers, they both sat down on the deck. "Man, that was awesome! We must do that again sometime," Kat said. "I can't wait to tell Nikki and Elise how beautiful it was: all those colours, and the different fish. Wow!!."
"Of course we can do it again," Brandon replied as he started the boat's engine. As they headed home, they talked about the day's experiences.
Post by MagicMaster8 and TawnyAngel22 Sent: 10/5/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1489 is a reply to message #1488] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:21 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
MONACO GRAND PRIX - PART TWO
Kenny Malone was waiting in the Arrivals lounge. He waved to Alan, and a moment later the two embraced, then Alan turned and indicated his brother. "I invited John along for this trip."
They shook hands. "Great to see you again, John. I have a car outside. Where're you staying?
Alan told him.
"Okay, I'll take you to your apartment. When you've freshened up we can go for a meal."
Once the luggage was placed into the car's boot, they left the airport. Kenny drove through the streets at a startling speed.
"Hey, Kenny," Alan laughed. "Just because the race drivers uses these streets doesn't mean that you have to drive like one of them."
"Oh, come on Alan, you can't pretend that you don't feel the adrenaline flowing. Given the chance, I bet you would drive equally as fast, if not faster."
After fifteen minutes of his fast driving, with a squeal of brakes, he pulled up outside a very palatial block of apartments.
John and Alan followed him into a large lift, arriving at the third floor. When they got out, they could see ahead of them a large ornate door. It opened into a large and highly decorated room. There were several other doors leading off. Ahead were some large French windows. Opening the windows, John found that the view of the sea and harbour, full of yachts and cruisers, was breathtaking. The apartment overlooked both the start and finish. At one end there was a large screen. This would enable them to see the entire race.
"I can't wait for tomorrow!" Alan stated enthusiastically.
After arranging to collect Alan and John later, Kenny left.
A few hours later, Kenny knocked on the apartment door. John opened it.
"Hi, Kenny, we're just coming." Alan shouted from his room. Both Alan and John had dress suits on.
Kenny led the Tracy brothers back down to his car. It was only a short drive to the restaurant. The waiter led them towards a table in an alcove at the rear of the restaurant.
Seated at the table three young women and a young man, much younger than Kenny, but so like him that Alan and John were not surprised when Kenny introduced him as his brother, Robert. Kenny introduced the young women. "May I introduce, Monique, Fabia, and Gabriella? They're very old friends. Monique and Fabia's boyfriends are mechanics for Ferrari, and Gabriella is my girlfriend. The ladies will joining us at the casino tonight, but their boyfriends will be far too busy getting ready for the race." John and Alan shook hands with each of them.
Monique and Fabia both had their long blonde hair piled on top of their heads in curls. Monique had a figure hugging, long emerald green dress, with a low neckline and a high split. Fabia was wearing some tight black trousers, and a strapless Basque fastened down the back. After the meal in the restaurant, they hailed a taxi, and were driven to the casino. Once there they headed for the gaming tables.
"Come and play roulette," Monique said, leading John over to the tables. They sat down. The croupier passed some chips to Monique. "What number shall we have?"
"Oh, um, seventeen black." John grinned. He was beginning to enjoy himself. He had no idea where Alan and Fabia were, nor Kenny and Gabrielle. All he was aware of was Monique's perfume as she leant close to him.
"Dix-sept noir." The croupier spun the roulette wheel and tossed in the small ball. After a moment he called, "Vingt-cinq rouge."
"Oh, hard luck," Monique pouted. "Let's try again."
After several luckless games, John finally won. Soon Monique seemed to lose interest. "I don't see your brother and Fabia, nor Kenny and Gabrielle. Why don't we go back to your apartment for a nightcap?"
"What would your boyfriend think?" John asked.
Again Monique pouted. "He is busy, and not thinking about me. Why should I worry what he thinks?"
To John's relief, Alan appeared alone. "Where's Fabia?" Monique sounded sulky.
"Dunno," Alan replied. "She said she saw someone she knew, and she disappeared into the crowd."
"Maybe you should try and find her," John suggested diplomatically. Monique hesitated, and then hurried off.
"Did I appear at an inopportune moment?" Alan asked his brother.
"Well, she wanted the two of us to go back to the apartment for a nightcap," John said. "But she has a boyfriend."
"That obviously doesn't worry her," Alan said.
"Well, it concerns me. I think I'm heading back; coming with me?" John asked.
"Yes, let's go a hail a taxi." This was easier said than done; Monaco at the time of the Grand Prix was a very busy place. Finally Alan managed to get one to stop, giving the driver instructions for the apartment. Both brothers collapsed in the back; it had been a long day.
Alan and John stayed up late, discussing the girls and the casino. John was quite pleased that he had actually been lucky.
Soon after breakfast Kenny knocked on the door.
"Only you and Robert?" John enquired.
"Yeah. The ladies," Kenny explained, "have gone down to the pits."
From: Tawnyangel22 Sent: 10/6/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1490 is a reply to message #1489] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:22 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Tracy Island
After changing into her nightwear, Grandma Tracy sat at her writing desk in her room with her journal open in front of her. She thought for a few minutes, then began writing.
"May 19, 2068
"I noticed some strange behavior on the part of Alan, Brains and Tin-Tin at breakfast last Sunday. After thinking about it for a day or so, I decided to approach Kyrano, since after all he is Tin-Tin's father. He told me he had noticed it, too, and was considering talking to her about the situation. I suggested that we confront them together.
"He agreed, and the opportunity came that very day, when the two scientists didn't appear for lunch. We prepared trays for them and took them to Brains' lab. When we arrived, I was pleased to see them hard at work, and I noticed that Kyrano was, also. But what we thought they could do in that cluttered place, I can't imagine. I suppose we both expected them to be gone, maybe on the beach or out by the pool.
"I was glad when Kyrano took the initiative and asked his child what was going on. His cultural background enables him to be so tactful. I'm sure I would have been more direct. And Tin-Tin's reply was so respectful, and honest.
"She said, 'Father, after Alan broke things off with me, and the fiasco with Giles, I was very unhappy. Then when I realized at the ranch that I was finally over Alan, I wanted to celebrate. When I returned here, I saw Brains, and thought how good a friend he'd been all this time. Plus he's sweet, honest and up front, not to mention intelligent. He's thoughtful, and whenever we've been alone together, a perfect gentleman.'
"She went on to explain what happened the day after she returned to the island, then when Alan confronted Brains a couple of days later. Kyrano listened and I watched Brains while she talked. When she finished, I asked Brains how he felt about the whole situation.
He told us how much he admired Tin-Tin and enjoyed both a professional and friendly relationship with her. 'I find myself more than willing to pursue a closer relationship with her, if she wishes, and there is no objection. And we promise not to let it interfere with our work.' Tin-Tin agreed.
"Her father and I both told them we had no objection, but couldn't speak for anyone else. Then Kyrano said something to Tin-Tin in what I presume to be Malaysian, and she colored slightly, then smiled at him and hugged him. We left shortly after that.
"Later that same day, I told Jeff and Dianne what I had learned. Jeff looked thoughtful and Dianne looked at him questioningly. He smiled at her abashedly and told us that he'd taken his engineer for granted, not thinking about how he should have a personal life, as well as his professional one. I guess we are all that way. Brains is such a genius, coming up with so many scientific and technical discoveries, that we tend to forget he's a human being.
"I suppose I should have a chat with Alan about this, but I haven't been able catch him alone. I probably haven't tried very hard; this isn't a conversation I'm looking forward to having. But I will.
Grandma put down her pen and closed the book. She was tired and ready for sleep. Putting the book away in a drawer, she took off her robe and draped it at the foot of the bed. She slipped between the sheets and was soon asleep.
From: Hobbeth Sent: 10/7/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1491 is a reply to message #1490] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:22 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Sunday, May 20th, Tracy Island, Lunch time.
Elise rubbed her tired hand across her forehead. The headache looming in the back of her brain was threatening to burst forward at any moment. She inhaled deeply, then let it all out in a huff. Looking at her surroundings, she decided that Thunderbird One's interior wasn't as welcoming and, well... as cozy as Thunderbird Two's. Of course, now she'd be lucky if she could tell them apart. Sometimes it seemed as if the two machines were melded into one.
"Cross training? Whose bright idea was that?" she said aloud to herself.
Since the announcement had been made that she was to begin cross training on TB1 as well as continue training on TB2, Elise had been more tired than she'd ever been, more confused than she'd ever been and, to top it all off, she was now more burnt out than she'd ever been. "Flying used to be fun! What the hell happened?" was another thought spoken aloud. She knew exactly what the answer was: Scott Tracy. Sure, he was a great pilot and a great teacher, but did he have to be such a great pain in the rear?
Elise thought back over the last few days. She had read and re-read chapters of both manuals of One and Two and found herself mixing the two aircraft up. Not good! When Scott had first shown her the controls of One, she'd told him he was nuts.
"Are you SERIOUS? The ASI says 15,000 mph? That's ridiculous!" She smiled, as she remembered her statement and Scott's reaction.
"I'm VERY serious. Yes this 'Bird can reach that speed. I need to get to the disaster zones ASAP and assess the situation. I need a craft that can do the job, and I need it running at 110 percent, 24/7." His stern look had told Elise that it was best if she kept any further comments to herself for the moment.
The training had gone on like this every day. She'd question something and Scott would all but bite her head off. He was stressed because she had to split her time between Thunderbird One and Thunderbird Two, and yet he needed her to be a fully checked out pilot on One in less time than it would normally take. Elise was giving both aircraft everything she had. Unfortunately, she was now thinking she'd run out of everything she once had.
A sudden noise brought her back to the present. "Ready to try this again?" It was Scott. He was not happy and hadn't been since the practice flight earlier that morning.
Elise had powered up too fast; her launch was sloppy and the whole "horizontal-to-vertical-flight" changing thing had thrown her for a loop. She'd gotten the nose too far down once she'd attained horizontal flight and Scott had "reminded" her of it at least 3 times even after she'd corrected the problem. Wing retraction had been okay, and her vertical landing on an open strip on the other side of the island had improved, but tilting One and reversing her back into her launch bay had proven tricky. Needless to say, the ensuing conversation between teacher and student had been a very heated one!
"Yeah, sure, whenever you're ready," Elise replied.
"Well, don't look too enthusiastic. You might have to do this for a real emergency someday."
That did it! She was done! She mentally counted to ten before she spoke. "You know what? I've had it up to here!" she said loudly, a hand flattened out by her brow indicating just exactly where she'd 'had it' to.
"I'm done, Scott! I can't do this any more today! I need some food, so I'm going to lunch!" With that, she unbuckled her seat belt, and clambered out of the aircraft. She paid no attention to the yells and comments coming from Scott.
Without turning to look at him, she simply said, "Fly the damn thing yourself!" and walked off.
Scott muttered his own "Damn" and watched her go. He didn't want to be the bad guy, but he needed to get her trained. He knew she was giving it all she had, and in spite of himself, he admitted that she was very good and handled his 'Bird almost as good as he did. But there were times he didn't know whether to hug her or hit her! Memories of his Air Force days with her danced across his mind. "Good luck this afternoon, Virgil," Scott muttered aloud.
From: FrankieCTB2 Sent: 10/9/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1492 is a reply to message #1491] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:23 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Tracy Island. Lunchtime.
Once she'd walked out on Scott, Elise headed for the kitchen in the main house. Kyrano always had something good fixed and besides, her little apartment refrigerator was looking rather bare.
"Good day, Miss Elise," Kyrano said in greeting, bowing his head and smiling.
"Hello, Kyrano," came the almost dejected reply.
"Something is wrong, I see," said the Malaysian.
"Yeah, you could say that. So, what have you got going on in the way of lunch? I'm starved." Elise obviously wanted to avoid the subject and Kyrano was wise enough not to pursue it.
"I am making various cold cut sandwiches. Just tell me what you would like and I will make you one as soon as I have finished preparing Mr. Virgil's."
"Oh, he's here?" she asked, glancing around the room.
"He just stepped out but will be returning shortly," Kyrano filled in.
Elise told him what she would like and then went to sit at the table. Virgil walked in just as she sat down and he immediately noticed how tired she looked. He turned to Kyrano who had just approached with sandwich plate in hand.
"What's wrong with Elise? Is she all right?"
"It is not for me to say, Mr. Virgil, but I would guess that something is wrong."
"Thanks, Kyrano," Virgil replied, taking the plate and heading towards Elise. "Mind if I join you?"
The blonde looked up at him. "No, go ahead, just as long as you're not planning to tell me how to eat my sandwich."
Uh oh Virgil was starting to recognize that 'look'. Something was definitely wrong. He made himself comfortable and waited until Kyrano had delivered her plate before continuing. "Let me guess: Scott, right?"
She looked at him silently for a few moments. How could this guy in front of me be possibly related to Scott? He's so much the opposite of him. "In a word--yes," Elise answered. "Virgil, I have had it up to here with him! I mean, he's a great pilot and all, but he's being such an ass!"
Virgil actually laughed.
"I'm serious, Virgil! How come he has to be like that?"
"Well, someone in this family had to be 'the ass' and he's the oldest, so it just kinda...."
"Oh, stop!" *Elise cut him off before he could finish, and he noticed she was smiling. He liked her smile.
"He's being tough on you, isn't he?"
"Yes. I understand why, and believe me, Virgil, I can take it, but he's absolutely driving me INSANE!"
"I'm sorry," Virgil offered as an apology for his overzealous brother.
"Not your fault. It's just with cross-training, I'm getting a little tired, that's all."
Virgil looked thoughtful for a moment and then suggested something. "Look, we can delay flying in 'Two until a little later, if you want. Instead, take some time for yourself to relax for a while."
She was almost shocked at his suggestion. "But your dad wants me checked out on both aircraft ASAP."
"I know, but I also know that a tired, stressed pilot can make sometimes fatal errors."
He was right and she knew it. She sat back and sighed deeply, glancing out of the window and the ocean and island around her. She turned her gaze back to Virgil.
"Okay, you win, Mr. Tracy! I'll go for a walk or something."
"Good." He winked at her.
Once they'd finished their lunch, they both stood to leave. On impulse she turned to Virgil
"Would you like to come for a walk with me?" "Sure, if you don't mind the company."
He smiled softly and suddenly Elise was very aware of how handsome Virgil was. She shook her head to clear her thoughts. She had enough on her mind without any more complications!
By FrankieCTB2
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1493 is a reply to message #1492] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:23 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
MONACO GRAND PRIX - PART THREE
Alan, John, Kenny and Robert settled down to watch the race. Kenny had brought some cans of beer, and the balcony was cool with a breeze from the sea. From where they were situated they could clearly see the start. Twenty-five cars lined up with the current leader, the Italian, in pole position. The only British driver was in sixth.
The red lights came on, then the green light, and they all sped away on the promenade lap to warm up their tyres. Once round the track they again lined up, ready for the race to begin.
On the green light all the cars raced away, negotiating the right hand Virage St Devote for the first time, jostling for position on the dangerous corner. The Belgian driver was unlucky and his car touched with the Italian, and was forced to run off into the tyre wall.
Accelerating up the hill into Casino Square, the drivers had a chance to change gear. The road was slippery and the German driver nudged the British in an attempt to overtake. The British driver held his line and the German remained behind him.
"Wow!" Alan said. "This is great! Better than the Malaysian and I thought that was really something."
Trying to out-accelerate the Italian, the Brazilian miscalculated and hit the barrier very hard, causing severe damage to his bodywork. He had to head for the pits.
The cars had to slow down for the tight left and right through Casino Square, and then they accelerated down the hill passed Hotel Metropole.
The beer was very welcome, and John was really enjoying the race. Robert was standing at times, shouting his head off.
Kenny looked at Alan. "Wishing you were down there?"
"How did you guess?" Alan replied.
On the cars raced, down through the hairpin at the Monte Carlo Grand Hotel and the sharp right hand past the fountains then into the Virage du Portier and the tunnel. Here the British tried to overtake the French and managed it, coming out of the tunnel into the bright sunlight at 170 mph.
"Great!" Kenny shouted. "With the Belgian taken off, that means that Jack is now in 4th. Could end with a podium finish if he can get past the Canadian."
"You're cheering the British?" John queried.
Kenny looked slightly sheepish. "Well, to be honest, the American driver was injured in the last race and is not taking part. Jack is a friend, so yes, I guess I am cheering for him."
A tight left-right chicane led into a short straight and then the swimming pool complex. This was followed by a hairpin turn of Virage Rascasse. Here the Canadian came undone as the driver completely blew it and ploughed into the barriers, thus making the way clear for the British to go into 3rd place.
As the cars roared past on to the second lap, the four young men cheered and shouted encouragement. Lap followed lap. The Italian had a terribly slow pit stop, which put him back three places. The British had incredibly bad luck with a puncture. On the final lap there were a few hair-raising moments, but the French finished in good style, followed by the Finnish and the Brazilian
"Let's go down and see the winners on the podium," Kenny suggested
Walking down to the street below, they battled through the milling throng of fans, sightseers and mechanics that were now spilling on to the streets. Eventually, they managed to get in front of the podium. This had been erected, just behind one of the main stands. All four cheered as they watched as the trophies were given and then the usual champagne fight, as the bottles were shaken, opened and sprayed over the winners and the crowd watching.
"Hi there!" a female voice shouted, and Monique hurried over to where they were standing. Fabia, and two young men, dressed in bright red, Ferrari team overalls, followed her. Smiling at John, Monique introduced her boyfriend, Antonio, and Fabia's boyfriend, Carlos. Both young men shook hands with John and Alan.
"It was a good race?" Carlos asked.
"Yes, it was," Kenny answered. "Shame about your driver."
"Oh, next time it will be different. You'll see," Antonio replied. He linked arms with Monique and Fabia, saying, "Come on, girls. Let's go and see how Giuseppe is feeling." Then all four wandered away.
"Well, I think we had better be heading back to the airport and home," Alan told his friend.
"Before we go, I promised I'd buy something for Kat and Tyler," John explained as he went over to where souvenirs were being sold. He bought Kat a T-shirt and baseball cap. ~Too bad I can't get an autograph. Then he looked around for something for Tyler. Finally he bought him a T-shirt and a model racing car.
They said goodbye to Robert, and Kenny drove them to the airport, stopping at the apartment to collect their luggage. In the departure lounge, they all shook hands. "Until the next race?" Kenny asked hopefully.
"We'll see," Alan said. "But don't get your hopes up."
"Okay. Anyway, nice seeing you, John," Kenny added.
"Same here," John replied.
On the return, Alan said, "That Monique is very beautiful."
"Mm, yeah" John murmured. He sighed and closed his eyes. Yes, Monique was beautiful, but she had a boyfriend. Besides, he had someone else he'd rather think about.
Thanks to Tikatu and Hobbeth for these posts.
From: Tawnyangel22 Sent: 10/9/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1494 is a reply to message #1493] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:23 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Sunday, May 20, Tracy Island. Early evening.
Although the training session with Elise had ended a while ago, Virgil was still putzing around on Thunderbird Two. He always found something to fiddle with or re-check. It was more habit than it was routine. His mind wandered back over the events since lunchtime.
Elise had been tired all afternoon, and although she made small, very subtle errors, he had caught them. He'd not said anything to her, knowing how stressed she'd been, but he certainly was going to say something to Scott! No one needed to be pushed as far as Scott was pushing her and Virgil knew that his brother knew it, too! Virgil's mind then wandered back to the after lunch walk he had shared with Elise.
****flashback****
"So how are you adjusting to life here--besides all the training that is?" Virgil asked as they walked slowly along the shoreline.
"I'm getting there, slowly, but getting there all the same." Elise replied, looking out to sea.
"That bad, huh?"
She glanced sideways at him, noticing how the wind ruffled his chestnut hair. "Well, it's not THAT bad!" She laughed."It's just SO different from New York. It's like a whole different world out here. It's almost like it's not real. It's paradise, but with a rescue squad attached!"
Virgil laughed out loud. "I guess I've never seen it like that! It's just 'home' to me."
They continued walking and chatting and laughing until Virgil steered the conversation towards a more serious topic. "Elise? Can I ask you something personal?"
"Sure. What?"
He stopped walking and she did the same. Elise looked at him, waiting for his question. "Are you still having nightmares about the helijet accident?"
She averted her eyes for a split second, caught off guard. She recovered quickly and answered, "No, not about the accident. I know I still have a few fears to face about it, but the nightmare stopped a while ago."
Virgil understood those fears. He'd faced a few himself over the years, but there was still one question he needed an answer to. It had been bugging him since the night he'd heard her scream in the guest room and she was in the throes of a nightmare. He'd been there to comfort her, but she'd said some things that didn't make sense to him.
"Why do you ask?" Elise said.
Virgil looked softly at her, seeing her honesty and trust in her eyes. "I was just remembering the nightmare you had when you were in the guest room; you seemed to be scared of something other than that crash."
She seemed quite surprised that he'd still be concerned about that night. "Virgil, that was ages ago!"
"I know, but I still think you're bothered by something. I'm just concerned, that's all."
Elise started to stiffen. "Concerned that I'm going to crack under all this training pressure?"
~Damn it! This isn't how I want this to go. "No! That's NOT it. I feel like something is holding you back, Elise, and I want to help, if I can."
The anger she had started to show deflated and she remained silent for a few moments. She knew eventually she'd have to share with someone other than Callie. The sound of the waves lapping on the shore suddenly became louder and so did the silence between them. "Okay, you really want to know?"
"Yeah, I do."
"Fine. I'm ...," she drew in a breath before continuing, "I'm terrified of drowning. I still have nightmares about that day... that day when my parents... when they died." A sudden rush of unexpected emotion threatened to spill out of her in the form of tears, and she turned away from Virgil, who clearly saw that she was struggling. He took a step closer to her, then she continued talking. "That whole tsunami brought it all back again. If it hadn't been for your dad, I would've drowned. The water got me, and he grabbed me just in time. It was like being 9 years old again, struggling to stay above the water, watching the waves suck my parents under."
"Elise, I'm so sorry, honey." Virgil sincerely meant it, and just hearing him say it so compassionately almost broke her. But she was tougher than that and held it together. She turned back around to look at him.
"Virgil, I feel like I escaped death when I lost them, and I wasn't meant to. It's like death or fate is chasing me down. I've spent years flying and staying as far away from water as possible. Even if I had to fly over it, I took the route with the most land, and now I'm surrounded by water and I'm scared."
Virgil saw before him a frightened young woman who was trying to stay brave and mask her fears. He instinctively drew her close and put his arms around her in a comforting gesture which she accepted willingly. They stayed this way for a while, neither one speaking. Virgil was the first to eventually say something. "Do you think you'd like to talk this over with Dianne?"
"Maybe. I dunno. Maybe I'm just overreacting because I'm tired and stressed, and don't want to fail anyone."
"You won't fail, Elise. I'll make sure of it. Besides, Thunderbird Two told me she's starting to like the way you handled her!" He smiled and winked at her and she laughed a little.
"Yeah, I'm sure she did. Speaking of 'her' we'd better get some flying time in today."
"Yes, we should." They started making their way back towards the villa.
"Thanks Virgil, for listening and for understanding, I didn't mean to dump it all on you like that."
"S'okay, I have knack for getting 'dumped on'!"
They both laughed out loud, the tension from earlier now gone. The afternoon continued with training, the nightmare conversation was not brought up again. But Virgil noticed how it had affected her and he noticed how tired and irritable she became when things didn't go as smoothly as she wanted when flying Two.
****end flashback****
Virgil came back to the present. Glancing at his watch, he decided now was the perfect time to have that little chat with Scott! Elise was becoming a great pilot and he'd be damned if he let his brother's bullying and pressuring bring her down.
revelations by FrankieCTB2 Sent: 10/15/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1495 is a reply to message #1494] |
Thu, 26 July 2012 22:24 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
******Sunday, May 20, 2068; Thunderbird Five; around 9:30 p.m.******
Callie stretched her arms after another long day of checking and flagging calls. "Oh, man, I never thought pressing so many buttons could do a number on my hands. I haven't done that in quite a long time." Sending a call to the base, she said, "There are several calls I'm keeping close tabs on, including possible volcanic activity at Mount Etna in Italy and the first tropical depression in the Eastern Pacific. The warmer waters around that depression will cause rapid strengthening."
Jeff nodded. "I understand, Ursa. Stay on top of those transmissions in case something develops out of either or both. Anything else to report?"
"Well, yes, sir, there is. I'm out of creamy peanut butter, and I've just got to have that with crackers and PB&J sandwiches."
After she heard Jeff chuckle, she asked, "Don't any of your sons eat peanut butter?"
"They normally won't eat it unless there's nothing left to eat. I guess we'll have to stock up on a lot of peanut butter on changeover. Speaking of my sons, it's nice to have all five of them together, and I have to thank you for making it possible."
Callie smiled. "It's good they have that extra time. To change the subject, sir, am I going to have to do any cross-training when I return to Earth?"
"You may have to, but we'll go into more detail about that when you get back."
"Okay, sir. I'm almost done with the daily diagnostic check. The communication systems are functioning properly, and the one bank to be emptied is almost done. Five more minutes, and then I'll head to bed."
"F-A-B, Ursa. Good night."
After ending the transmission, Callie saw the monitor read System Clear. "Ah, that's it. The daily check's done."
Going to the refrigerator, she grabbed a bottle of fruit-flavored water. Upon passing John's room, she noticed his plant. "Hmm, it looks like it could use some water." Looking at her water bottle, she said, "No, I don't think the plant would like the lime taste." Callie had to go into John's room to get to his little bathroom. "All I need is some regular H2O, so there's no need for me to be nosy." After pouring water into the cup, she went back to "feed" the plant. "There you go. I know you need your good health for when John returns. Does Alan take good care of--" With a giggle she said, "I haven't talked to a plant since I was a kid."
Callie then went into her quarters and found her journal on the table near a photo of her family. Sitting on the bed, she grabbed the journal and nearby pen, opened the book, and started writing.
Today was another busy day, but once again, no calls for International Rescue to come out. I've been very lucky so far during my first solo run as space monitor. I think the most exciting call I've gotten so far this month was from that little boy, Peter Fink. He was so eager to do a report on us, even though I couldn't tell him too much. Not even John or Alan has had this problem before, so I got to have a first for IR while being up here. If he got a good grade, more power to him. I'll be going home in less than two weeks, but I have a feeling we'll be needed soon enough. The question right now is when.
It sure can be quiet and lonely up here. But like I told John when I came up here with him, it's the vital info I send back to Earth that makes all the difference.
I'm so happy Mom got her flowers and card on time. Because I completely forgot about the time difference between here and Opp, I actually thought I was too late.
She sighed as she continued writing.
Sometimes I worry that a call could come from my own family, and they would immediately recognize me if I responded. I pray nothing happens to my family. If they do have to call, I hope it'll be a time when either John or Alan is up here.
Well, that's all I can think of for now. I need some sleep because tomorrow will be another day of pressing buttons and checking calls.
After closing her journal, she walked to the closet. She took off her uniform and changed into a comfortable nightgown. Upon finishing her water, she tucked the bottle away for later recycling. Entering the bathroom, she brushed her teeth and then her hair with the hairbrush in her right hand. When she was done stroking her hair, she tied it up in a bun for the night, her way of keeping her hair straight while sleeping. Finally walking out of the bathroom, she pulled down the blanket and slipped under it. With a smile she looked at her family photo before she turned out the light for the evening.
From: TracyFan4Ever Sent: 10/15/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1596 is a reply to message #1495] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 15:38 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Tracy Island, Monday May 21 st 2068, night time
Kat felt restless, sleep seemed to be denied her. She got up and opened the French windows, and looked at the clear starry night. ~I wonder! she thought to herself. Getting dressed, she left her apartment and made her way up onto the roof where John kept his telescope.
Everything was quiet and peaceful. She had just readjusted the telescope so that she was able to look through the lens, when an amused voice, made her jump.
"Someone else having difficulty sleeping?"
"Oh, John, you startled me, I hope you don't mind. Yes, I couldn't sleep and the stars looked so welcoming. I just had to come and have a look." Kat replied.
John came over to her side. "You'll always be welcome here, Kat," he said.
Suddenly a shooting star shot across the sky.
"Look at that!" Kat remarked. "Make a wish," and she closed her eyes.
On opening them, she saw John looking at her with amusement in his eyes.
Feeling foolish, she said, "I guess it is just superstitious nonsense."
"Well, you never know, wishes can come true," John replied.
He thought back to a few days earlier, when they had all been sitting round the pool. He had been unable to take his eyes off her, a fact that his brothers hadn't failed to notice. He had looked at Gordon, who was rolling his eyes in a lovesick manner, with his hand pressed against his chest. John had left them to their silly games, hoping that Kat hadn't noticed. Now, back on the roof, he wasn't sure how to approach her.
"It's sure great to have all you new personnel here on the Island," he said, "and it's a great help and relief to Dad, and in fact to all the family."
"It's great to be here," Kat replied. "Just think that my world has been turned upside down in the space of a few months. Last New Year's Eve Party at Creighton Manor, I met your family, and now here I am actually working for International Rescue."
Suddenly another shooting star flashed across the sky. John closed his eyes. Kat laughed and closed her eyes as well.
On opening his eyes, John looked at Kat and said, "I have a feeling that our wishes might come true."
Kat blushed.
"It depends on what we wished," she said.
John smiled at her.
"Well, I think I might have a remedy for your sleeplessness," he said.
"Whatever you think will be wonderful," Kat said.
John was taken aback slightly by the tint of adoration in her tone. He cleared his throat and continued.
"I thought we could go down to the kitchen and make some hot chocolate."
Kat nodded enthusiastically.
"Oh, gosh, that would be lovely!"
They headed for the kitchen, where John made their drinks. They chatted about both their hobbies and interests. Kat talked about the times she used to ride.
"Did you compete?" John asked.
"Sometimes, although I wasn't very good. Mainly I rode for pleasure, just riding through the countryside. You simply can't beat riding a horse really early in the morning in summer. Everything is so quiet and peaceful. It seems as you and the horse were the only two living beings." She flushed slightly. "Sorry I get carried away when I am talking about horses." Kat laughed, and then glanced at him "Did you ride whilst you were at the ranch during Cherie's birthday celebrations?"
John replied that, yes, he had, but nothing more than a steady hack around the ranch.
"I suppose you ride western?" Kat queried. "I'd love to try that style."
"Maybe you will someday" John answered her, hoping that she would get a chance to go to the ranch.
Suddenly Kat tried to stifle a yawn.
"Oh, my, I do apologize, John," she said, "but I really must head for my apartment, otherwise I shall fall asleep here."
John walked with her back to her apartment.
"Goodnight Kat, and thanks for the company,"
"Goodnight, John and thank you for the hot chocolate." Kat replied, letting herself into her apartment.
From: Tawnyangel22 Sent: 10/16/2005
|
|
|
|
| Re: Celebrations and Challenges [message #1597 is a reply to message #1596] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 15:39 |
artisticrainey
Messages: 1228
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northern Ireland
Karma: 2
|
Field Commander
Switzerland |
|
|
Tracy Island, Tuesday, May 22nd 2068. Early morning.
Even though the sun had barely started to rise on the horizon, some of the inhabitants of Tracy Island were already up and about to start their day. Virgil Tracy was one of them. Although he was known for his usual habit of sleeping later than his brothers, today was not one of those days.
He poured himself some freshly made coffee and headed out through the lounge to the balcony. Sipping the hot liquid carefully, he gazed out over the ocean admiring the glorious colors of the early morning. His keen artist's eye noted every color and hue as the hazy sun began to rise. It was peaceful this time of day, unless there was a rescue being launched. Then there would be a buzz of rushed activity with his brother Scott in full Commander mode.
Virgil looked about him. Scott would be shocked to see him up before the sun! Scott was always first up, but not this time. Nope, Virgil was up and it was Scott's fault that he was.
Gulping down another mouthful of coffee, Virgil's mind recalled the reason for his lack of sleep this past night: Scott and his training methods with Elise.
****flashback****
Virgil had intended to find Scott when he'd left Thunderbird Two on Sunday night but Scott had been engaged in a serious game of pool with Gordon and Brandon and by the time they were done, Virgil had fallen asleep watching a movie. So it was Monday morning before the two brothers were able to be alone long enough to have 'a chat'.
"What's on your mind, Virge?" Scott asked, knowing automatically by the way Virgil walked onto Thunderbird One's gantry and into the cockpit that something was bothering his brother.
Virgil thought he had carefully planned what he was going to say, but the more he thought about how miserable Elise was, the more angry he got about it.
"Scott, just what in the hell are you trying to do to Elise?"
Scott's blue eyes met his brother's brown ones. He sighed. "I'm trying to do what Dad wanted me to do. Cross-train her to fly One ASAP." He turned his focus back to what he was working on.
"Well, it's not working! You need to ease up on her, Scott. She's exhausted and making mistakes!"
Again, Scott stopped what he was doing and looked his brother in the eye. Virgil rarely raised his voice to anyone and the fact that he was doing it now showed Scott that there was a problem.
"Damn it, Virge! We need backup pilots and if I didn't think she could handle it, I wouldn't push her! She knows the expectations and she's more than capable of meeting them!"
"That may be, Scott, but your pushing her harder than you need to. She's not one of us! You can't expect her to live up to the Tracy standard that we've all had to since we were born. It comes easy for all of us and I think you're forgetting that."
Scott didn't like his brother's outburst and didn't appreciate being told how to train Elise. "Don't you dare stand here and preach to me about forgetting who I am and why we're here." Scott was now pointing an angry finger at Virgil. "I trained her in the Air Force and I'll have her trained as backup on Thunderbird One before you know it!"
"Great, Scott, just great," came the reply, dripping with sarcasm. "And just when do I get to train her on the pod vehicles? Hmmm? Not to mention she needs practice in dropping Four with Gordon on board!"
Scott hadn't actually thought about that aspect of the training on Thunderbird Two. His concern was getting her checked out as a pilot for both aircraft. He sighed deeply.
"We need to refigure this schedule with her, Virge. I don't want anyone feeling like they're being pushed over the edge." He thought for a moment. "How about I get her for one full day, she takes a day off and you get her for...say, 2 days? Then she gets one off and I get her back?"
Virgil digested this proposal and looked at his brother. "Sounds even crazier than what we're doing now, but I guess we'll try it."
Scott was offended. "What do you mean 'even crazier'? Damn it, Virgil, you got a better idea?"
"What I meant was that neither one of us, especially you, can take her for more than half a day without want to kiss her or strangle her! And no, I don't have a better idea." He sounded defeated, but managed a smile when he saw Scott grinning at his comment.
"I told you, bro, she does that to you! Now, who owes who the hundred bucks you mentioned at the start of all this training with Elise?"
****End of flashback***
Virgil swallowed the last gulp of his coffee. Today they started the new schedule. He would have Elise for 2 days, but at least Gordon would be there for part of it. Why did he have to be the one to break the news to her about the revised schedule? He turned around to head back into the villa and all but bumped right into Scott.
"You're up early. Are you okay?" asked Scott, genuinely concerned. Virgil was never up first, not even on Christmas morning. That was always Gordon's shining moment.
Virgil looked at him. "Elise. Two days. Remember?"
"Ah. Yes. I do remember. It'll be okay; underneath it all, she's an ace in the air."
"I know, Scott. It's on the ground where I fear for my life!"
They both chuckled, glad to be once again at ease with each other.
From: FrankieCTB2 Sent: 10/24/2005
|
|
|
|
| Pages (4): [ 2 ] |
  |
Goto Forum:
Current Time: Thu Apr 25 00:44:25 EDT 2024
Total time taken to generate the page: 0.01349 seconds
|
International Rescue: The Next Phase
Search
Help
Members
Login
Home
