peri38
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Cooper of The Dark Lady
Posts: 242
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Post by peri38 on Feb 15, 2010 10:07:21 GMT -5
Her head was pounding like 100 Riverdancers were step dancing in her head and her mouth felt like she’d swallowed a pound of sand. Oh God…she needed an aspirin, one about the size of Montana. She groaned as she opened her eyes to the sun shining brightly into her room. There was a swift knock at her door and in walked Ryan’s Aunt Brin. “Good morning to ya Kristine. Now I know your heads a hurtin. Ryan left me a note. Said you’d me needing a glass of my special fix this morning, so I mixed some up for you this very morning.” She sat a glass of something that looked a little like a thick red punch. “Here now…this will fix ya up fine and fit now.” Kristine held back a groan and Aunt Brin helped her sit up. “I don’t know what that boy was thinking letting you have too much of the drink.” She clucked and handed Kristine the glass. It seemed no answer was required from Kristine since Aunt Brin continued a running one sided conversation with herself and walked around picking up clothes and straightening the room. Kristine cautiously took a sip of “the fix”. It didn’t taste too terrible, so she drank it down. “There now, that’s a good lass. You’ll be right as rain in a little bit. I have instructions to get together a picnic for this afternoon. You’re going to the lover’s tree, I hear. Well that’s just fine. It’s going to be a fine day for walking. It looks to be a warm day so wear walking shorts and be sure you have a good pair of walking shoes. It’s quite a long walk.” “Is there really a ghost here at the Inn?” Kristine finally got a word in. “Our Arianne is as real as you and me. I’ve seen her meself…puir girl. Wandering around here…so sad.” “Do you think I might see her?” “Well, to be sure, she likes to walk this part of the Inn. It may be you’ll see her, but don’t be afraid…she’ll not hurt ya. Now…you lay down awhile more and let my fix make you feel better. I’ll come and get you up in a few so you can be ready to go.” “Thank you..Aunt Brin.” Kristine layed back down and closed her eyes. It seemed her head was already feeling better. She fell back asleep. A couple of hours later Kristine was showered and dressed and feeling relatively human. Her head felt surprisingly better which made her wonder what was in “the fix”. She headed downstairs and met Ryan coming down the hall to get her. “Ah! There’s my lass. How’s your head feeling?” He pulled her in a hug and gave her a good morning kiss. “Well..if you would have asked me a couple of hours ago..I would have told you I was dying. But my head is feeling much better now, thanks to your Aunt.” “That “fix” she makes is a life saver. I don’t know what’s in it…so don’t ask. She’s been making it since I can remember. Her family used to own a pub…so it’s a recipe that’s been handed down.” They walked down to the kitchen where Aunt Brin was just finishing up setting out some lunch for them to eat. Ryan packed it into a backpack so they could carry it easily. They headed out the back door. The day was beautiful. The sky was blue with scattered clouds, the wind light. They held hands as they walked, talking about anything and everything. Soon he was pointing out a large tree in the distance. They walked toward it. The tree seemed old as time. It’s branches spanning wide. Next to it sat a rock about the size of Kristine. It was odd shaped, sort of like an old hag, with what looked like a sword handle sticking out of it. Kristine shivered. She could remember the story and could imagine that this rock really was a fairy turned to stone. Ryan sat her under the tree and started setting out the food. Kristine’s stomach was actually feeling hungry.
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peri38
Fantastic Fan
Cooper of The Dark Lady
Posts: 242
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Post by peri38 on Feb 15, 2010 12:17:57 GMT -5
“This place gives me the willys.” Kristine sat down under the tree and picked up a roast beef sandwich. Ryan poured out some soup in a cup for her. “I think it’s peaceful. My friends and I used to come here when we were wee lads and climb the tree. We played Robin Hood and his merry men, robbing the rich and giving to the poor. Once we even heard a galloping horse. Of course we thought it was Conall himself, come to turn us to stone. We all ran like little girls.” “Probably just some farmer riding by.” Kristine ate some of her soup. It was delicious. “Yeah…probably. But when you’re young, you’re imagination is big. I wanted to tell you, I asked a friend of mine to look into finding our baby. He’s into that sort of thing. He belongs to all these ancestry clubs and all that. If she was there, he’ll find her.” “I don’t know Ryan, sometimes it seems like it was just a dream, but I really think I was remembering not dreaming.” “Well…we’ll soon find out. My friend is very good. He may even find out what happened to me. Though I’m not sure I want to know that.” “I’m not sure I want to know either. You might have re-married and had a bushel of kids. You probably lived happily ever after.” Kristine wasn’t sure if she liked that idea…her Ronan remarried. She already felt a little jealous even though it had been a couple of lifetimes ago. “No….I don’t think that happened. No….” He seemed to think about it. “I’m sure I wouldn’t have gotten married again. I loved you so much…” He looked at her. “I wanted to die with you.” “But you might have had a baby to take care of. You needed someone to help you. Back then you may have married again.” “Well, I guess we’ll find out soon enough. When does Meagan fly in?” “She’ll be here next week. I think Teresa is coming with her. I can’t wait to see them both. Did you find a chapel to get married in?” “Yes…my mother and I are on that. You’re not to worry about the chapel…the reception… the lads are planning and the honeymoon… that I’m planning myself. We have that covered.” He smiled. “Well…that doesn’t leave much for me to do then, does it? The lads and the reception? Do I need to be worried here? And what am I supposed to do? Sit around and look pretty?” “Not hard for you to do…you’re beautiful.” He put his arm around her shoulders and hugged her to him, kissing her on the temple. “I’ll give you the job of finding a dress…and picking out what you want the lads to wear. They all have to be in it you know.” “Ryan…I don’t have 2 extra girls to stand up with them…you have to keep it even. 2 girls and 4 lads aren’t even. “ “Kristine…it doesn’t matter! It’s our wedding and we can do anything we want to. There are no rules, the world doesn’t end if there are 4 standing next to me or not.” He smiled. Well of course he didn’t understand…he was just a guy. Kristine thought about it. OK…he doesn’t think it matters? I’ll show him…it doesn’t matter…hah! “I’ll call your mom tomorrow; see if there is a place to look for dresses. Maybe we could wear togas…and have a toga party!” She looked at Ryan for his reaction. His mouth dropped and words seemed to be stuck in his throat. The look on his face was hilarious and she couldn’t help cracking up laughing. “Yeah…you’re kidding right? Kristine? You’re kidding….come on…stop laughing and just tell me you’re kidding.” “Nope…I think togas would be perfect…all the lads…with their knees showing. By the way, did you know your socks are always falling down when you are wearing your kilt? I’m thinking your legs are little skinny sticks and can’t keep them held up.” “Skinny sticks!!! I’ll have you know, I have…fine manly legs.” He pulled up his shorts to show off his legs. Kristine looked down at them. “Yep…little sticky legs” she reached down and grabbed the spot right above his knee and gave it a squeeze, which made him jump. “Maybe I’ll have to rethink the toga idea. Wouldn’t want to let everyone see those little sticky legs.” Ryan started packing up the dishes into his backpack. “Yeah…you definitely need to rethink that idea anyway and I do not have sticky legs.” “Hey! I know! You guys can dress up like leprechauns! You know…like the little guy on the Lucky Charms commercial! You could wear these little green suits and funny hats.” Ryan put his hand over her mouth. “OK…I get it. You’re making me pay for the “it really doesn’t matter” comment. It does matter…it matters a lot. It’s our wedding and it matters a lot, so I’m sorry I said that. Now… give me a kiss and tell me you’re not going to dress me up like a leprechaun.” He kissed her. “Well now…Mr. Kelly, after such a nice apology, I’ll not dress you up like a leprechaun. You lads would make terrible leprechauns anyway…you’re all so tall. Anyway I want to show off my handsome husband…so I’m sure we’ll find something nice. And you’re right….it doesn’t matter if there are 2 girls and 4 guys, as long as they’re our friends. So the lads are planning the reception huh? Do I really want to know how that’s going to turn out?” They walked toward the Inn, hand in hand. Conall appeared standing next to the tree. He watched the young lovers walk away. They were so happy. It had been so long since he’d seen his Arianna. Once again he regretted letting his jealousy rule his heart. His horse appeared next to him. He jumped up and rode the hills..the sound of galloping echoing across the hills. Ryan stopped and listened. “Did you hear that?” “Hear what?” Ryan looked over the hills…. “Nothing…I guess…nothing.” He shook his head and starting walking toward the Inn again.
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peri38
Fantastic Fan
Cooper of The Dark Lady
Posts: 242
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Post by peri38 on Feb 18, 2010 9:09:12 GMT -5
The next week flew by for Kristine. Meagan and Teresa arrived to help. Paul met them at the Dublin airport and drove them up to The Moy. Kristine was ecstatic to see her friends. She hadn’t realized how homesick she was for her friends and family. Meagan and Teresa were properly fussed and clucked over by Aunt Brin and settled in the room next to Kristine’s. They all met in Kristine’s room for a little girl talk after unpacking. Kristine brought them “up to date” on the happenings. “No Way! You think you had a baby?” Meagan exclaimed when she heard. “I think so. Ryan has a friend looking into it. He’s sure if there was a baby, he’ll find her.” “That’s crazy! So show us your dress! I can’t wait to see it!” Teresa got up and looked in Kristine’s closet. “I haven’t had a chance to even look for a dress yet. But now that you guys are here, you can help me. We’ll start tomorrow since I know how tired you are. My first day here, I dropped like a rock.” “Well I am tired, but we both slept on the plane.” Meagan told her. “Just wait….it’ll hit ya soon.” Kristine smiled. “By the way Kristine, I’m lovin the Irish lilt you have goin now.” Meagan smiled back. Kristine looked at her in surprise. “Lilt? I don’t have a lilt!” “Yes you do…I hear it too.” Teresa agreed. “Not real strong but your definitely turning Irish on us.” Kristine smiled at the thought. She’d never noticed it herself but it made sense. She had always love Ryan’s soft lilt. One of the many things she loved about him. “Well how about dress shopping tomorrow? I haven’t driven a car here yet so this might be interesting.” “You’re not going to kill us or anything, are you?” Teresa looked at her suspiciously. “I’ll try to keep us all in one piece. After all, I don’t want to get married in a cast.” Just as Kristine predicted, the girls started tiring, so she sent them off to their room to take a nap. She promised she would wake them around 6:00 pm. She headed down to the kitchen to talk to Aunt Brin and arrange for something to eat when they woke up. She walked into Ryan, Paul and Damian sitting in the kitchen eating breakfast. “Hey Damian!” She gave him a hug. “Haven’t seen you around since I got here. What you been up to?” “Just catchin up with my mates. You settled ok? This guy treating you right?” “I’m great! Hey Paul…thanks for bringing the girls from Dublin. I appreciate it.” She hugged Paul too. Ryan scowled as Paul hugged her longer than he liked and kissed her smack on the lips. “How you doing, luv? Ready to drop this bozo and run away with me yet?” Paul smiled at her. “HA …HA” Ryan said. “Such a kidder! Come…sit down and eat some breakfast. Did you get the girls settled then?” “Yes…they’re taking a nap. By the way….can I borrow your car tomorrow to go dress shopping?” Ryan looked at her in horror. Turning he looked at Paul hopefully. “Don’t look at me…I had to borrow my parent’s lorry to get the girls up here. You wouldn’t believe the luggage!!! You would think they were visiting for a year!” He turned back to Kristine. “Well now lass, I don’t know… as you’ve never drove a mile by yourself in Ireland and I’m very attached to my car.” “What are you saying Ryan? That you’re more attached to your car than getting married to me? That I can’t drive? That you don’t want me to find a wedding dress for our wedding?” “No! I’m just sayin, you haven’t driven in Ireland yet. You might get lost or something...” He turned to Paul and Damian. “A little help here guys? ” “Don’t look at me! I’m staying out of this one.” Damian smiled. “If I had a car here luv, I would definitely let you drive it.” Paul took her hand and kissed it. Ryan made a sound in his throat that was somewhere between a groan and a hmmmph. “Yeah sure…you’d let her drive your new little sports car.” “Ryan…I promise, I’ll be very careful. I’ll drive slowly and look both ways before crossing the street. I want to take the girls and find the perfect wedding dress and you can’t be there to see it. It’s bad luck.” She gave him her best puppy dog look. Ryan looked pained, but finally he gave in. “Ok...OK...OK…Kristine…you can take it...but I want you to be very careful and take that new cell phone I got you, just in case you run into trouble.” “Thank you sweetie! I promise I’ll treat it like my own baby. I love you so much.” She hugged him and ran over to talk to Aunt Brin about Meagan and Teresa’s dinner. “Oh boy.” Damian said watching her talking to Aunt Brin. Paul started laughing. “You know Paul…you’re really starting to get on my nerves.” Ryan frowned at him. “Can’t help it, boyo. I’m lovin watchin you squirm.” Paul kept laughing.
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peri38
Fantastic Fan
Cooper of The Dark Lady
Posts: 242
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Post by peri38 on Feb 21, 2010 23:55:01 GMT -5
Kristine decided to drive to Dublin the next day to try and find her perfect dress. Ryan dropped off his car on the way to playing basketball with his friends. He gave them a map giving them driving directions, made sure Kristine’s cell phone battery was full, kissed her and sent them on their way. Kristine had a little trouble getting used to the wrong side of the road but got to Dublin with only a few near misses. Dublin was a beautiful, bustling city full of shops for everything you could think of. The girls had a great time shopping in each of the stores and purchasing gifts for their friends back home, clothes for themselves and Kristine even bought a little pretty sweater for Ryan as a thank you present for letting them borrow his car. They bought a lot of great things but the one thing they didn’t find was a dress that seemed perfect for Kristine’s wedding. “What the heck am I going to get married in…my jeans and a T-shirt?” Kristine was frustrated. She didn’t realize it was going to be this hard and her wedding was only 2 weeks away. “Don’t worry sis, we’ll find the perfect dress if it takes us the whole 2 weeks.” Meagan hugged her. “Your right Megs, I have a whole two weeks. If my wedding was tomorrow, I’d have something to worry about.” The girls headed back to Ryan’s car and put their bags in the trunk. It was getting dark as they made their way back to The Moy. Kristine figured it was that and one of those crazy turnabouts somewhere that made her take a wrong turn. Unfortunately, it wasn’t until they were smack dab in the middle of nowhere when they finally figured it out. They were lost. “Hate to say this, girls…but I have no clue where we’re at.” Kristine said as she drove down a one lane road. “Well, keep going until we come to a village or something. Surely this road takes you somewhere! Then we can ask for directions.” Teresa looked at the map in her hand. An hour later, they drove into a tiny village on the edge of the sea. Kristine figured it was the Irish Sea. Well…if it was the Atlantic Ocean, she would be in huge trouble. At least she knew what direction she was going now. Finding a little pub open, they stopped for something to eat and to get directions back to The Moy. On the way in, Kristine noticed a little antique store next door. It had a beautiful old wedding dress in the window. “Oh my God!!! That’s it!!!! There’s my dress!” Kristine grabbed Teresa’s arm and pulled her to the window. All three girls stood at the window staring at an old beautiful dress, laid out in the window. It was an antique lace wedding dress, with long sleeves and a round scoop neckline. “This is the dress I was wearing when I married Ryan before!” Kristine stood stunned, “I can’t believe I’m seeing this. I mean…what are the chances I would get lost and come here…and find my dress.” “Let’s go in.” Meagan pulled Kristine into the shop. A woman sat behind a counter reading a book. “We’d like to see the dress in the front window please.” Teresa asked the woman. “Well now…that’s a beauty isn’t it?” She went to the window and brought it over to the girls. “Belonged to the Quinn family. They brought it in last week. Times being as it is…they needed the money, with their youngest off to the university ,he is. Must be over 100 years old.” Kristine ran her hand over the dress. Her eyes were looking at the dress when it was fresh and new. Her mother had worked months on it. Her grandmother had tatted the lace on it. Kristine herself had sewed the pearl buttons down the back. She remembered it as if it was yesterday. Tears came to her eyes as she looked at the yellowed aged dress. She wiped the tears away with the back of her hand. “Yes…we’ll take it. The Quinn family you say? Was it handed down then?” Kristine asked. “I believe it belonged to Molly Quinn, who was an O’Malley before she married Angus Quinn.” “And before that? Do you know Molly O’Malley’s mother’s name before she was married?” Kristine asked her. “Well now…you’re going back a way there.” The woman thought. “I’m not sure you see, but seems to me Molly’s mother was a Henry. Was raised by an aunt, O’Kelly was the name. Moira O’Kelly was a saint around here. That’s it! Shannon Henry was her name…now I remember. She was named after the river, they say. Ah..such a sad, sad story it was.” The woman lovingly packed the dress in paper and boxed it up. Kristine hugged her. “Thank you…thank you so much.” Kristine took the box and walked out to the car. “Kristine…are you ok?” Meagan asked as she walked beside her. “Megs…did you hear her. Shannon….that might have been my daughter! Moira O’Kelly!!!! MOIRA. My sister’s name was Moira! You were Moira! Remember?” “Okay…I remember the story. What are the chances of getting lost and coming here? This is too strange. I can’t believe this is the same dress.” “I guess I’m starting to believe in fate, Megs. Ryan and I were meant to be together and all the pieces are starting to fit. I can’t wait to tell him what I found out. “ The three girls went into the pub and found an open table off to the side. It was very busy with the supper crowd. Tables of families and people just off of work filled pub with noise and laughter. A waitress greeted them and left menus, promising to return soon. Meagan decided to try a Guinness for the first time since she was 18 and old enough to drink in Ireland. Teresa decided to join her but Kristine stuck with hot tea. Not only was she driving, but her memory of the hangover was still fresh in her mind. When the waitress came back, they all ordered fish and chips. Meagan couldn’t stop staring at the incredibly handsome man behind the bar. He was building 2 Guinness’s for her and Teresa. He saw her staring at him and flashed her a smile. Meagan blushed and looked away. The waitress picked up the Guinness’s and brought them over to the table. “Hey…my brother Aiden says …no charge.” She looked over at the bartender and so did the girls. “He smiled at the blushing Meagan again. “He says he likes her beautiful face, especially when it’s so red.” Teresa and Kristine started laughing, which made Meagan blush even more. She took a quick sip of her Guinness. “Ah …Meagan…look at you!!! Picking up the handsome Irish men.” Kristine giggled. A young, very nice looking man came out of the kitchen, carrying a tray with their fish and chips on it. He was obviously another brother since he looked very much like Aiden, the bartender. He suddenly broke out in song. Aiden joined in. The men sang in perfect harmony. He stopped at their table and gave them their dinners, all while singing his song. Grabbing up Teresa’s hand, he pulled her up and started dancing her around the pub. Everyone started clapping to the music and singing the refrain. When the song ended, he gave her a big kiss right on the lips and whispered something in her ear which made her laugh. She sat down with a slight blush to her face and a little out of breath. “So? What did he whisper in your ear?” Meagan asked her. “He thanked me for dancing with him and said “I did a fine job of it, for a yank.”” She said it with an Irish accent that made Kristine and Meagan laugh. “This is such a fun pub! I love this pub!” Meagan giggled and ate her dinner. She was ¾ of the way done with her Guinness and was starting to get that flushed, glazed look in her eyes. “No more for you, Megs or we’ll be carrying you out of here tonight.” Kristine told her. The crowd in the pub started to thin out. Kristine asked the waitress if she could give them directions back to The Moy. The waitress didn’t know for sure and went to get Aiden the bartender to help them. Aiden pulled up a chair and sat next to Meagan. Teresa brought out the trusty map Ryan had given them. He explained how to get back and drew a line on the map to follow back all the while flirting outrageously with Meagan. He seemed to really get a kick out of making her blush. “So…do you think you might be back then? Come back for a visit?” He asked the girls. “I have a feeling we’ll be back here again.” Kristine thought about her daughter. She definitely wanted to bring Ryan back here. Maybe they could get some more information. “Well then…there’s something to be looking forward to. Hope to see you real soon.” He kissed Meagan goodbye and smiled at the other girls and walked back to the bar. “Wow! They sure like to kiss people around here!” Meagan said with a goofy smile on her face. “Well notice he didn’t kiss either of us…I think he just likes you Megs.” Kristine laughed. “He is handsome…but not as handsome as Damian.” She looked at Aiden again. When Kristine tried to pay the bill, Aiden refused her money. “Just call it a “Welcome to Ireland” gift from me. You lasses take care now.” He waved goodbye as they walked out of the pub.
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peri38
Fantastic Fan
Cooper of The Dark Lady
Posts: 242
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Post by peri38 on Feb 22, 2010 21:30:05 GMT -5
Kristine drove out of town and down the lane that the map indicated she should go. A fog was rolling in from the Irish Sea, and made it hard to see. She prayed she was going the right way. The fog seemed to thicken and became a mist. Kristine had to run her windshield wipers every now and then. “I think you take a right at the next turn.” Teresa was looking at the map. Just then something flashed in front of the car. Kristine slammed on the brakes and turned the wheel. The car slid into a spin and rolled headfirst down an embankment. It stopped after hitting a tree at the bottom of the hill. “Oh my God….is everyone alright? Megs???...Teresa??? Are you alright? ” Kristine sat, stunned at what happened. “Calm down Kristine…we’re fine…are you alright?” Teresa looked at Kristine who was shaking. “Ryan’s car…he’s gonna kill me.” Kristine got out of the car and ran to the front. The front was caved in but it wasn’t terrible. “Jeez Kristine….what happened? “ Meagan asked her as she circled the car. “I don’t know…I was driving and something ran across the road. I swerved to miss it and lost control. What am I going to do?” Kristine felt the tears starting to form. Her hands were still shaking. Teresa pulled her into a hug. “Hey…it’s going to be ok. Come on now…we’re all ok. Now, I guess we better call Ryan and tell him what happened.” Teresa held on to the shivering Kristine. “No…I can’t tell Ryan. Maybe we can drive the car back up on the road.”Kristine looked up the hill. “Kristine…it’s muddy and there is no way that car is going to get back up that hill. Call Ryan.” Meagan said. “Ok..ok..ok. I’ll call him. But I feel like an idiot. He’s going to be mad.” Kristine went to the car and reached into her purse for the phone. She hit the speed dial 2 and listened for an answer. “Kristine! Where the heck are you? You should have been home hours ago.” Ryan answered the phone. “Ryan? We were in an accident….” Then the tears began. Kristine tried to tell him what happened but was crying so hard he couldn’t understand her. “Kristine? Is everyone ok? Hey….honey…please stop crying. Hey…it’s alright. Just can you tell me where you are?” Teresa finally took the phone. “Hey Ryan. Yes…we’re all fine. Something ran across the road and Kristine swerved to miss it. Umm…yes. Well the car slid off the road and rolled down a hill. Ummm yes …no…no…it hit a tree. Yeah..well …yeah…uh huh…” She took out the map and gave him directions to where she though they were. “Yeah well we kinda got lost. Uh huh…no…ok…we’ll see you then…ok…you want to talk to Kristine again? OK …bye Ryan.” She handed the phone back to Kristine. “Kristine? Walk up to the road. I’ll be there in about 45 minutes. Ok?” “OK.” Kristine sniffed. “I love you Kristine….it’s going to be ok…ok?” Ryan didn’t sound mad…just very scared. “OK.” “Go sit in the car for a little bit, so you don’t get wet ok?” “OK.” “Kristine? Are you going to be alright, a grha?” “Yes, I’m fine” “I’m on my way. See you in a little bit.” “Ok. Bye Ryan”
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peri38
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Cooper of The Dark Lady
Posts: 242
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Post by peri38 on Feb 24, 2010 8:02:35 GMT -5
Forty five minutes seemed like 5 hours, sitting in that car. The girls were really spooked. The fog made it seem like something was walking around out there, just past the lights of the car. When about one half an hour went by, the girls decided to climb the hill to the road so that Ryan could see them. Climbing the hill sounded easier than it was. The hill was muddy and the girls kept slipping back down. Finally they made it to the road, and 5 minutes later a car approached and came to a stop. Ryan, Paul and Damian all jumped out of the car and ran over to the girls. “You girls ok? “ Ryan came up and wrapped his arms around Kristine. “We’re fine, like I told you on the phone. Meagan has a bump on her forehead and I bumped my arm on the door. But all and all, were lucky.” Teresa told him as Paul hugged her to him. Damian looked at Meagan’s forehead and kissed it, then gave her a hug. “So where’s the car?” Ryan asked. All three girls looked down the hill. There it sat with the emergency lights flashing, the front end smashed up against the only tree for ½ mile around. “You had to find the only tree didn’t you?” Ryan sighed. “Look at it this way, Ryan.”Paul pointed out. “If they hadn’t hit the tree…they might have gone on for who knows how long and really been injured. The tree stopped them.” “Yeah…well, let’s all get in the car. I’ll have the car picked up tomorrow.” Everyone started walking to the car. All except Kristine, who wouldn’t budge. “I can’t leave without my dress.” “Come on Kristine, we’ll get the dress tomorrow.” Ryan pulled on her. “No. I’m not leaving without my dress, Ryan.” She started walking toward the car. “Kristine. The dress will be fine until tomorrow. You are not walking down there to get the dress!” Not listening, she started sliding down the hill toward the car. He, of course, went down after her. “Of all the crazy, lunatic….Kristine!” She was almost to the car when he slipped and slid down the rest of the way, landing in one big giant mud puddle at the bottom. She didn’t even look back, just opened the trunk and took out a bag, then slammed the trunk shut. It was then she turned around and looked at Ryan, just getting up and covered from head to toe in mud. He wasn’t looking too happy. In fact, he was looking pretty mad. At the top of the hill, they could hear Paul laughing hysterically. “Oh boy.” Was all Kristine could think of. “Are you alright? Holy Cow! You’re a mess!” “Yeah…let’s just get home ok?” Ryan said through gritted teeth. “OK…I’m ready now.” They both struggled up the hill again. By the time they got to the top, they were both muddy and soaked to the skin. The two of them sat in the front seat, while everyone else sat in the back, all squished together. No one wanted to get close to them since they were both so wet and muddy. “So that dress must be pretty special.” Ryan said. “It’s one of a kind, Ryan. I could never ever find a more perfect dress than this one here. If anything happened to it, I don’t know what I’d do.” Nothing more was said. She leaned her head on his arm and fell asleep the rest of the way back to the Inn, in her arm was the bag with themost perfect dress.
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peri38
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Cooper of The Dark Lady
Posts: 242
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Post by peri38 on Feb 25, 2010 12:28:51 GMT -5
Ryan dropped off Paul, Damian and the girls at the Inn and drove the sleeping Kristine and himself over to his house. Pulling into the driveway, he shut off the car and nudged Kristine awake. “Hey…where are we?” “My house…I have to shower.” He felt the mud, starting to dry on his clothes. The minute he entered his house, he started stripping off his muddy clothes, and headed to his bedroom to shower. She figured he was pretty mad, just from the silent treatment she was receiving. Well…she’d just see about that! She sat her muddy butt down on the couch to wait. It didn’t take long, not more than five minutes, he came walking back out of the bedroom freshly washed and wearing sweats and a t-shirt. “Well! What do you have to say for yourself? I have never been so mad in my whole life. Why didn’t you call me when you got lost? Instead of driving all over the country, hanging out at pubs, getting Meagan drunk, driving my car down a hill and into a tree. I was scared to death something happened to you. But do you care? No! You just drive around, wrecking people’s cars, then go running off to get a dress, then the mud puddle…let’s not forget the mud puddle...” Ryan was pacing back and forth in front of Kristine as he ranted. Every time she tried to say something, he started ranting more, arms flying. Kristine calmly stood up and said nothing, just headed to the bathroom and slammed the door, locking it behind her. “Kristine….I’m not done with you yet! Open this door!” “Ryan…If you’re not going to let me explain you can just yell at the door. I am taking a shower now. We can TALK when I get out. Until then, you better get over yourself or we are going to have a major fight here. By the way, do you think you could find me something to wear?” Kristine turned the shower on and didn’t hear what he had to say. She took off her clothes and got into the warm water. She didn’t realize she was so cold. The water felt delicious. She scrubbed the mud out of her hair and washed up. When she was done, she dried off and wrapped the towel around her. She opened the door to the bedroom and stuck her head out, finding a pile of clothes lying on the floor by the door. Ryan was nowhere to be found. She slipped into the clothes and ran a comb through her hair, then headed to the living room. Ryan sat on the couch, saying nothing just watching her. “I’m sorry about your car. It was an accident. Something ran out in front of me, it was raining and I lost control. I’m sorry I didn’t call you when I got lost. I figured I could find my way home, probably would have if I hadn’t run off the road.” “Come here.” He said. She walked toward him as he held out his hand to her. “I’m sorry I yelled. I was just so worried and scared. Then when you called crying, I was terrified. Please Kristine, I wouldn’t survive if something happened to you again. Promise me you’ll call right away if it happens again.” “Cross my heart, hope to die.” “Never EVER, say that again.” She held his hand and he pulled her to him, enfolding her in his arms. She snuggled in as he rubbed her back and held her to him. “Was this our first fight?” Kristine asked. “Our official first fight, we’ll probably have more.” Ryan said. “So..can we kiss and make up now?” “Absolutely…I can’t think of anything better to do right now.” Ryan squeezed her. “Well, we could play cards or bake cookies.” Kristine teased. “Why don’t you tell me about the dress. I take it you found one.” Kristine’s head popped up. Her dress! She’d almost forgotten it! “Ryan! You wouldn’t believe it! I found my dress! The one I wore at my first wedding. It was just sitting there in a window of an antique shop. I saw it and went in and bought it.” “You found your dress in Dublin? Are you sure it’s the same dress?” “I’m absolutely sure. But it was in an antique store in the village we stopped at for directions, after we made the wrong turn. I talked to the woman who ran the shop. She told me the history of the dress.” She went on to tell him about her conversation with the woman. “So it originally belonged to Shannon Henry and she was raised by Moira O’Kelly. I’ll send that on to my buddy. What was the name of the village you were at?” “Oh Crap! I never thought to ask. How could I be so stupid! It was on the sea..a little village.” “A village by the sea? The Irish Sea? You got that far before you stopped! Kristine…why..?” Kristine put her hand over his mouth. “We’re really not going to go there again are we?” She pulled her hand away. “Yeah…you’ll have to give me time to get over my terror…probably have nightmares for months. Until we’re married, I’m not letting you out of my sight for a minute.” He pulled her up tight to him. He looked over at the front door and noticed the bag that had her dress in it. “So show me the dress.” “No way! It’s bad luck! You can’t see it until the day we’re married.” Kristine lay her head in her favorite spot, right on his shoulder, her face in his neck. Lord he smelled good. “That can’t happen soon enough for me.” Ryan yawned and hugged her to him. It had been a long day. “You want to sleep here tonight? I’m pretty much toast here.” He asked her. “Sure. I’ll sleep here on the couch if you get me a pillow and a blanket.” She said. “No…I’ll sleep on the couch, you can have the bed.” “I am not taking you from your bed; I can sleep on the couch.” “Lord…you are stubborn! I guess we both sleep on this couch then, because I am not moving.” He said. “Talk about the pot calling the kettle black. Ok…I’ll go sleep in the bed.” She gave him a goodnight kiss. “Goodnight baby, see you in the morning.” “Running at six!!! Should I wake you up?” He yelled after her as she walked into the bedroom. “Not if you value your life.”
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peri38
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Post by peri38 on Mar 8, 2010 18:06:11 GMT -5
Kristine stood in her room the next day looking down at the bed. Meagan and Teresa flanked either side of her. All three looked down at the wedding dress, spread out before them, with a look of horror across their faces. Yesterday, Kristine had seen the dress through "remembering" eyes. What it had looked like when she had worn it the first time. Now looking down at the yellowed dress, bits of lace torn and disintegrating, she couldn’t believe she could ever wear this dress in 2 weeks. The dress looked 100 plus years old. “What am I going to do? I can’t wear this dress like this!” Kristine cried. Tears formed in her blue eyes and fell down her cheeks. Yesterday she was so happy to find her dress. Now, she felt sad and depressed. A knock sounded at the door. Aunt Brin bustled in, all smiles, with a handful of towels. “Now what’s this? Tears??? What’s the matter child?” Aunt Brin walked over to look at what the girls were staring at. “Ah now, what a lovely dress. Where did you get it?” “In an antique store…but I can’t wear it…it’s in too bad of shape.” Kristine started crying on Aunt Brin’s shoulder. Aunt Brin patted her back softly. “And who says you can’t wear it? I know someone that can restore this lovely lady to almost it’s former glory. If you like…I take it to her today and see if she can’t put a rush on it.” “Could you Aunt Brin? Can it really be fixed? “ Kristine looked at her hopefully. “There now child…of course it can be fixed. It won’t be as the original, but certainly with a bit of this and a bit of that, we can have her looking beautiful again. And you will look beautiful wearing it. I can see the dress and you were meant for each other.” Aunt Brin wiped the tears from Kristine’s eyes. “Thank you …thank you so much. You don’t know how much this dress means to me.” “I think I do lass. I have the perfect veil you can wear. It almost matches this lace perfectly. You may borrow it if you like. It was the one I myself was married in. You weave fresh flowers in the top part and the lace comes down from it. Very simple but it seems to go with this dress.” Aunt Brin gently folded up the dress, wrapped it in tissue and gently put it in the bag. “It sounds perfect…I just can’t thank you enough.” Kristine hugged her and started a fresh bout of tears. “There now…all will be well…I promise you. We’ll get this dress fixed up and see you walking down the aisle… the prettiest bride in Ireland.”
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peri38
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Post by peri38 on Mar 14, 2010 0:39:33 GMT -5
The wedding was a week away. Only a week. Kristine felt the pressure building. He parents would be in Ireland in a few days. Apparently the plans were all set in place. At least she thought so since no one would tell her the plans, even though it was her wedding. Ryan would just smile when she asked him some of the details. It was driving her crazy! And her dress…her beautiful dress. She hadn’t seen it since Aunt Brin had taken it away. What if it wasn’t done in time? What if it couldn’t be saved? Her stomach was starting to hurt. It was her wedding!!! She needed to know what was going on!!! Ryan could sense her nervousness and planned something to distract her. He arranged a night out for just himself and her at a nice restaurant. He told Damian and Paul about his plans so they could get Meagan and Teresa out of the way. They happily made their own plans with their girls. Kristine dressed in her prettiest dress, her hair and makeup perfect. She looked at herself in the mirror and smiled. It was the first time she’d smiled in days. She was looking forward to her date with Ryan tonight. It seemed like weeks since she’d had any "alone" time. Well, except for the little spat they had the week before. She heard the knock at the door. Opening the door she smiled. Ryan stood there, smiling back. He was dressed in black slacks with a dark green shirt. The green shirt made his eyes turn a dark green. She looked at him and couldn’t believe he loved her. Her. Kristine. Out of all the women in the world…he chose her to love. The ever present tears started forming in her eyes again. She just didn’t understand where they were coming from. Ryan looked at her with a stricken look in his eyes. “Hey….what’s the matter?” He hugged her to him. “Nothing…just feeling a bit overwhelmed.” She buried her face into his shoulder. He always smelled so good….she inhaled his scent and relaxed against him. “Ryan, are you sure…are you really, really sure, it’s me you want to marry?” “Kristine. I am absolutely, positively sure, there is no other woman out there that is more perfect for me than you. You are a piece of my soul and without you, I would not survive.” He hugged her to him harder. “Now…are you ready to go eat?” She nodded into his shoulder. “Let’s go…can we have movie night after dinner?” she wrapped her arms around him as they walked down the corridor. “Sure…as long as it’s not some girlie, female movie.” He kidded. “Well I like “P.S. I Love You”. How about that?” “No way…I’m not watching some chick flick.” He shook his head. “How about “Star Trek”. I hear that’s a really good movie.” “Ugh…boring…are you trying to put me to sleep?” Kristine laughed. “Hey…Star Trek is not boring. That’s good stuff.” “Hmmm…ok…I get to pick a movie and you get to pick a movie. Fair?” “OK…sounds fair. Let’s go eat.” They got to the car and Ryan opened the door for her. She slipped into the seat. He got in and drove off to the restaurant. “So…is this a loner car?” Kristine asked. “Yeah…my car is in the shop probably until next week.” “Um, was it expensive getting it fixed?” “Let’s just say, it was 500 euros just to tow it and then drop the subject.” “Yipes…I said I was sorry! It was an accident!” “Drop it Kristine. I want to have a nice quiet evening with you, ok?” They pulled into a parking space at the restaurant and walked in. A lovely lady escorted them to a table in the back. The restaurant was very expensive looking, with a chandelier and crystal on the tables. There was soft music and soft lighting, Kristine felt uncomfortable. She would have been happier going to the pub, but she didn’t tell Ryan that. He thought he was doing something special for her, so she let him. He ordered a bottle of wine as they looked at the menus. They both ended up ordering steaks. “I gave my buddy the information you gave me. He gave me the history on this Shannon Henry. Would you like to know about her?” Kristine felt a jump in her stomach. “Yes, of course. Do you think she was our baby?” “She was Kristine. She was born to Ronan and Kiera O’Kelly on November 6, 1878. Her mother died of small pox when she was only 4 months old. Her father went off to war and was killed in 1879. She was raised by her aunt and uncle, Daimhin and Moira O’Kelly. She married a Patrick Henry on April 17, 1896. She had 6 children and died of old age at the age of 72. That’s all I know.” Kristine smiled. At least she knew. She never got to know her baby, but there was Moira there to take care of her. And Moira actually married Daimhin. She was happy for her. “Just think Ryan…We had 6 grandchildren and who knows how many great…great, great …maybe even great, great, great grandchildren!” She reached over and held his hand. “We might even be our own great, great, great grandchildren.” “Yeah. That’s something I really don’t want to get into. Are you ok?” He squeezed her hand. She nodded. “I’m ok. It just seems so surreal. Like it’s a dream but it’s not. I mean, we’re talking about people that are dead and gone. But somehow you know them. They’re us. It just makes me kind of sad.” She looked up as the waiter brought their food. “Hey. We found each other again. What are the chances of that happening? I mean…you lived in the middle of America and I live in Ireland. We were meant to be together and fate has brought us here. Sort of like our second chance.” He held onto her hand. “Well…here’s to second chances.” She lifted her glass of wine and clinked it with his. They each smiled into each other’s eyes as they sipped their wine. “Okay…well, no more sad talk. Let’s eat! I’m starved! “ Kristine started slicing her steak.
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peri38
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Post by peri38 on Mar 23, 2010 21:32:09 GMT -5
Three days and counting. Kristine’s stomach was tied in knots. Her mom, dad and baby brother had arrived a couple of days before and was finally adjusting to the time difference. Last night, Aunt Brin and Ryan’s mom announced a bridal shower for her the next night. Well, they actually called it a “Hen” party, whatever that was. Kristine assumed it was a bridal shower. It was going to be “out of town” but no one bothered to tell her where. If someone would just tell her something and quit springing surprises on her, she’d probably feel better. When Kristine asked Aunt Brin about her dress and when it would be ready, she would just pat her arm and tell her “no to worry lass”. “Well that’s a little hard to do considering I’m getting married in three days!” Kristine said to herself as she packed her bags. She was told to pack everything because she wouldn’t be back to the inn. She realized she would miss this cozy little room and Aunt Brin. She was a little disappointed she didn’t see the ghost, although one night she heard a woman crying. Her mother walked in the room. “Need any help, baby?” “No…thanks Mom, I got it. I’m just about done now. So…did you hear where we’re going?” “Honey, I wouldn’t know even if they told me.” Her mom answered as she folded a shirt. “Yeah…I suppose not.” Meagan walked through the connecting door. “Hey Kristine. Can you hang our dresses in your car? We don’t have room in ours.” She hung the dresses up in the closet by Kristine’s other packed bags. “Oh! Let me see…let me see.” Her mom walked over and unzipped the garment bag. Kristine was very happy with the dresses they had picked out for the girls. It was right there in a dress shop in The Moy where they found them. They were a spring green color with off white lace overlay. The dresses looked beautiful on Meagan and Teresa. She decided to go with black suits with a green tie for the lads. She just wanted simple and neat. So her job was finished. She only hoped everyone else did their jobs. A young man came to get their bags. He loaded all of Kristine’s bags and everyone else’s overnighters. Of course, everyone else would be back here after the wedding. Kristine had no clue where she would be. Her stomach knotted again. At this rate, she was going to have a nervous breakdown before the wedding. Everyone climbed into 2 cars and headed out. Kristine rode with Ryan’s mom and her mom in one car while Meagan and Teresa rode with Aunt Brin. The cars headed west. Kristine’s mind drifted as she looked at the scenery out the window. Both mothers were getting to know each other and seemed to genuinely like one another. Kristine was listening with half an ear when the Ryan’s name came up. “…he’s headed to Dublin tonight for a bachelor party.” Ryan’s mom was telling her mom. “What! He’s going to a bachelor party? Tonight?” she asked. “Now Kristine…it’s not that big of deal. The lads just wanted to take him out to the pubs to blow off a little steam. I’m sure nothing is planned that you’ll be upset about. Anyway..we have our own little hen party planned.” She answered. “Ok..that’s what you told me. What is that? Some kind of bridal shower?” “Well now…it could be, if that’s what’s planned. However, this hen party will be a bit more than that. “ she smiled. “Ours is going to be a few girls getting together and having a bit of fun.” “Does Ryan know this?” Kristine asked. “What Ryan doesn’t know won’t hurt him. We deserve a bit of fun, and you need to relax…I hope you don’t mind me sayin…you’ve been a wee bit tense lately.” She smiled at Kristine in the rear view mirror. “It would help me to know a little of what’s going on…I near scared to death of what to expect.” Kristine told her. “Not to worry Kristine, Ryan has taken care of all the details and that boy knows what he wants. He only wants to make you happy. And believe me…you are going to be very happy with this wedding.” This statement made Kristine feel so much better. She took a deep breath and relaxed. She was ready to have a little fun and this hen party sounded like it would do the trick. The car finally came to a town. The streets looked awfully familiar. Looking around Kristine saw the pub that she and the girls visited when they were lost. There next to it was the antique store that she bought her dress. Aunt Brin drove through the town and pulled up to a bed and breakfast on the edge of town. The bed and breakfast looked very familiar. Just like a bolt of lightning, recognition hit her. It was her parents house from her past life. She stepped out of the car and looked at it. It looked exactly the same. Well ok..it wasn’t exactly the same but basically. She couldn’t wait to go inside and look around.
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peri38
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Post by peri38 on Mar 26, 2010 23:03:56 GMT -5
Kristine walked the halls of the bed & breakfast. Flashes of memories ran through her mind. Her and Moira, sliding down the banister laughing. Her mother scolding them. Playing house in the little closet under the stairs. Family dinners in the dining room. The owners had painted and updated, but hadn’t changed the basic character of the house. The house even smelled the same. “I’m home. Hello home…I’m back.” She said to herself and smiled. Everyone was shown to their assigned rooms. Whether it was accident or fate, she was assigned her own old room. Meagan and Teresa’s room was next to hers. Her mom was across the hall. Her bags were brought up but she wasn’t going to unpack them. She was only staying here for a few nights anyway. Aunt Brin knocked on her door. “Kristine. We’re running down to the pub in about an hour for dinner.” “Thanks…I’ll be ready.” She picked up her cell phone to text Ryan. “Hey..you wouldn’t believe it…in my old house now. The one before. Sitting in my old bedroom right now. I miss you” she pressed the send button. Minutes later there was a reply. “Wow…how does it feel? Going out with the lads tonight. What are you girls up to?” “It feels like home. Going 2 the pub tonight. Don’t know tomorrow. Be good! I love you” she pushed the send. Reply from Ryan. “I love you too. Be wide. Irish lads can be a bit bold. Watch out for my mom. She gets gacky when buckled.” “Yeah..sure. Whatever you say. Haven’t you ever heard of the “Female Code of Silence”? she sent. Reply from Ryan.“ ?” “Nothing that happens shall ever pass my lips.” She pressed send. Reply from Ryan.“OK…that’s a scary thought. You better tell me all.” “Nope…”Female Code of Silence”…it’s a unspoken rule.” She pressed send. Reply from Ryan. “I have ways to make you talk.” “LOL…do your worst..I stand firm with my fellow sisters.” She pressed send. Ryan’s reply. “I’m thinking of ways right now. ” Just then Ryan’s mom knocked on the door to let Kristine know they were ready to go to dinner. “The gacky one calls…time to go to dinner.” She pressed send. Reply from Ryan.“Ok…have fun. But not 2 much fun. I love and miss you. Only 2 more days.” “I can’t wait…love you too. Only 2 more days. NNGB. Keep out of trouble!” she pressed send.
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peri38
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Post by peri38 on Mar 30, 2010 17:53:04 GMT -5
Everyone walked into the pub a half hour later. Aiden, the bartender, looked up and waved a hello. “It’s glad I am to see beautiful faces back again. And how’s my sweet Meggie doin?” Meagan smiled and turned red. Which made Aiden laugh. “Just the same I see.” “We’re celebrating tonight, Aiden. Kristine is getting married on Saturday. We’re here to send her off right.” Teresa told him. “Well now. A celebration is it? Go find a table. What will you start with?” “A round of Guinness would will do us for now young man.” Ryan’s mom told him. “Yes ma’am. Coming up.” He started building a pint and winked at Meagan. They found a table for six and sat. A young woman came over to the table and handed out menus. “Young lady, we’ll start with a round of shots. Jameson I think.” Ryan’s mom ordered. “I’m not sure I can do a shot of whiskey, do you have something a little milder?” her mom asked. “Now Sharon, nothing says party like a shot of Jameson. Just pound one down and you’re on your way to partytown.” Aunt Brin told her. “Well, ok, I’ll have just one. Just to toast Kristine, but that will be the last.” Teresa leaned over to Kristine. “I think we’re in trouble here. These girls sound like they are ready to party.” She whispered to her. “Let them have some fun. I know it’s been a long time since my mom has had any fun. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen her drunk. We’ll just have to keep an eye out for them.” Kristine whispered back. “Oh boy…this is going to be some night.” Teresa whispered back. Kristine nodded her agreement. In Dublin, Ryan sat at in the pub with a number of his friends including the lads from Celtic Thunder and his buddies from The Moy. He smiled and accepted the rounds of drinks and good natured ribbing he was getting. It was all good craic. Damian came up and slapped him on the back. “Hey…ready for the ole “ball and chain” to be attached?” Ryan just smiled. “Never been more ready. I’m afraid I’m in for a time of it though.” “That’s for sure. Kristine is a headstrong one.” Damian agreed “Well I wouldn’t change her…if I could. I love her just the way she is. Kind of reminds me of my mum.” “Yeah…aren’t they all with your mum right now?” Damian asked. “She said something about having a “hen” party.” Ryan told him. Just then Paul walked up. “A “hen” party! Ha…CLASSIC!” He started smirked. “What’s that supposed to mean? Do you know what a “hen” party is?” Ryan asked him. “Sure it’s the female version of a “stag”…but you know women….they can be a bit wild.” “Wild like….wild how?” “Well you know…drinking excessively…dancing with men…crazy presents..” “Men??? What men?? Kristine didn’t say nothing about men. There aren’t any men there.” Ryan sounded a bit nervous. “Ok..yeah….there isn’t any men there.” Paul starts smirking. “Do you know something I don’t know?” Ryan asked. “Don’t listen to him, Ryan. You know how he is…he’s just yankin ya.” Damian smiled and slapped him on the back. Ryan frowned and took a drink of his beer. He picked up his cell and tried to call Kristine. No answer. He tried texting her a message. “hey..just here thinking of you…having fun? No answer back. Someone bought him another Guinness and a shot. He downed the shot and smiled at his buddies. Where was she?
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peri38
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Post by peri38 on Apr 2, 2010 23:14:26 GMT -5
Kristine was taking a drink of her Guinness and shaking her head. Things were starting to get out of control very quickly. Someone had put rock music on the jukebox in the corner and the whole bar was up and dancing. “No way! I am not seeing this!” She watched her tipsy, conservative mother was dancing with an older gent that looked to be the oldest man she had ever seen. “Oh no…don’t do the bump…don’t do the bump…oh Jeez…she’s doing the bump with him.” Kristine took another gulp of her Guinness as her mom laughed and bumped her rear end with the old man. Meagan started giggling. Which started the other two laughing. Pretty soon all three girls were laughing so hard they had tears running down their faces. “I think I just peed my pants” Meagan said wiping the tears from her face, which started another fit of laughing from the girls. “Hey…c’mon. Let’s go have some fun too!” Teresa pulled the girls up and the three of them started dancing. Kristine danced up to Aunt Brin, who was dancing with a young man that didn’t look a day over 16. She did the bump with Aunt Brin, which started Meagan and Teresa laughing. Aiden came out from behind the bar and started dancing with Meagan and Teresa. Everyone was laughing and having a great time. That is until Kristine felt someone grab her from behind and started dancing with her. She looked up to see who it was, but she looked at the face of a stranger. “Yeah…hands off buddy!” Kristine peeled his hands away and started to walk toward the table. “Hey…come on..I just wanna dance with the bride.” The drunk guy grabbed her arm and pulled her back to the dance floor. “Hey..I don’t know you and I don’t want to dance with you ok?” She tried to pull her arm out of his grasp. “Just one dance. My name is Sean. I just want to dance with the bride.” He pulled her to him and started to dance with her. Just as Kristine was going to let him have it, the door of the pub slammed open. Kristine didn’t notice who it was, she was too busy trying to get away from the creepy drunk guy. The next thing she knew was the guy being pulled away from her and a fist was flying in his face. The guy fell back on the dance floor but came up swinging. Soon people were screaming and fists were flying. Teresa and Meagan pulled Kristine back to the table. “Holy Cow…that’s Ryan!” Teresa said. Paul walked up next to them, smiling. Damian stood next to Paul. “What are you guys doing? Go and stop him!” Kristine yelled at them. “Why?…he seems to be doing pretty good on his own. He’s winning isn’t he?” Paul said. “That’s not the point. I don’t want him fighting anyone…and I don’t want him hurt before the wedding. Now go stop him!” Kristine started tearing up. “C’mon Paul…let’s go break it up.” Damian walked toward Ryan who was pounding the heck out of drunk guy’s face. It took both of them to pull Ryan off him. “Hey Ryan… c’mon…you beat him. Let it go.” Damian held onto his arm. Paul grabbed the other arm. “There ya go slugger…ya beat the tar out of him.” Paul said. Ryan wiped his bleeding mouth with his sleeve. He turned his head and checked to make sure Kristine was ok, then headed for the door, slamming it as he walked out. Kristine watched him go. His mom walked up to her. “Don’t worry about him honey…he just needs to walk off his mad. He’ll come back when he’s ready.” Ryan’s mom pulled her into a hug. Kristine was still in shock. How could everything go so wrong so fast. Ryan was supposed to be in Dublin. What was he even doing here? She turned to Paul and Damian. “What the heck are you guys doing here?” she asked. “I dunno. Ryan said our party was done. So we thought we would drive up and join yours.” Damian told her. “We never expected to see you on the dance floor with some guy.” “Yeah…for your information. I wasn’t with that guy, I was trying to get away from him.” “Sorry Kristine.” Damian looked over at Meagan. “So Megs, who’s the guy you were dancing with? You two seemed to be pretty chummy.” “Let’s just all sit down and catch our breaths here. Aiden…give us a round here.” Aunt Brin, the voice of reason, shooed everyone over to the table. Kristine kept looking at the door. “Ahh sweetie, he’ll be back. He always does this when he gets mad. He goes stomping off. Then he comes back better for it.” Ryan’s mom grabbed her hand. But he never came back. Even when walked out to their cars, he never showed back up. Kristine was worried. Did he blame her? Would he call off the wedding?
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peri38
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Post by peri38 on Apr 3, 2010 18:41:06 GMT -5
Kristine tossed and turned in her bed. No matter what she did, she couldn’t turn off her brain. The drama from the night kept re-running over and over in her head. The sparks in Ryan’s eyes before he turned and headed out the door wasn’t a sight she was ever likely to forget in a very long time. Oh God! What if he called off the wedding! Tears started pooling in her eyes again. TAP…TAP…TAP “What the heck?” She thought. TAP…TAP…TAP…TAP…TAP…TAP…TAP The tapping was coming from the window. She got out of bed and pulled the curtains aside. Ryan’s head appeared in the window. She scrambled to unlock the window and open it. “What the…Ryan, what are you….?” “Shhh…don’t wake my mother.” He whispered loudly as he threw one leg over the window sill and pulled himself in her room. “She’ll skin me if she finds out I’m here.” At that Kristine flung herself into his arms and started crying. “Hey….Hey….I’m sorry..don’t cry…please, baby, don’t cry. I’m sorry I ruined your party. Just don’t call off the wedding Kristine. Please a ghra…don’t cry.” Ryan held her tight and rubbed her back. “Call off the wedding? I thought you were going to call it off. You were so mad. Aren’t you mad at me?” Kristine looked up at him. “Why would I be mad at you? I saw how that jerk was manhandling you. I just saw red. Do you forgive me?” Ryan wiped a tear from her cheek. “Nothing to forgive. That loser deserved it. I was just about to give him a knee and one of my famous right hooks.” Ryan laughed and hugged her tight. “I should’ve let you have him. So…we’re still on in ….19hrs and 20 minutes?” He looked at his watch. “It’s definitely a date. How come you didn’t come back?” “Mom told me last week, I wasn’t allowed to see you until the wedding. After I cooled off, I knew I couldn’t see you, so I went walking around town. I just had to make sure we were okay. Are we okay?” “Yes…we’re okay. At least I’m okay. Are you okay?” “Never better…I love you Kristine.” “I love you too.” Ryan kissed her. “Well…I have to get out of here before Mom catches me. There’ll be heck to pay if she does.” “Bye…see you in…20 hours and 10 minutes.” “I’ll be counting the minutes.” He let go of her reluctantly and swung his leg over the sill. His foot found the top rung of the ladder. “Hey…hold the ladder steady, will you?” He called down. “I’ll do my job, don’t worry about it…you just be careful coming down and don’t fall on me.” Someone called up. “Who’s down there?” Kristine yelled down. “Just us, Kristine.” Damian called up. She heard Paul laugh. “You two take good care of him. Make sure he gets to the church in one piece.” “We’ll treat him like he’s our only child.” Damian called up. Kristine heard Paul start singing “Get Me to the Church on Time” from “My Fair Lady”. She laughed and gave Ryan one last kiss as he started his descent. “Bye…miss me.” She whispered loudly. “Always…a ghra.” He whispered back. “19 hrs and 56 minutes.” She laughed and closed the window. Laying down on her bed, she hugged her pillow and drifted off to dreamland.
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peri38
Fantastic Fan
Cooper of The Dark Lady
Posts: 242
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Post by peri38 on Apr 6, 2010 20:07:41 GMT -5
“It’s so beautiful!” Meagan stood behind Kristine and looked at her in the mirror. “You’re so beautiful! I can’t believe that the same old dress we saw 2 weeks ago. That woman is a miracle worker.” “And it fits you perfectly.” Teresa stood on the other side. “Now, what are we going to do with your hair?” “Now don’t worry about that…your veil will be here in just a few minutes with the wedding flowers. Oh child…” Ryan’s mom looked her over, “you look like an angel.” Kristine smiled as tears started to pool in her eyes. “Now don’t start the watering pot. You’ll ruin all this morning’s work.” Aunt Brin stated matter of factly. They had just spent the whole morning at the beauty shop. The three girls had gotten the works: A facial, hair, makeup, manicure and pedicure. It really helped Kristine get rid of some of the nervousness. “You girls need to go get your dresses on now.” Aunt Brin shooed the girls to their room to get dressed. “Now…I’m going to check on the flowers. Ah look…here is your mum now.” Aunt Brin and Ryan’s mom headed out the door, to let Kristine and her mom talk. “Hey mom…you look so pretty.” Kristine hugged her. “And you look so grown up and beautiful. I wonder how that happened? First you’re a little girl with pigtails, playing baseball, and now you’re a lovely young woman, ready to start a new chapter in her life. Your dad and I love you so much…and we are both so happy for you. Ryan’s a good and decent man. I’m just going to miss you so much.” She hugged Kristine hard to her, like she would never let her go. “Now Mom…if you wrinkle this dress, Brin is going to fuss. Anyway..with facebook and email, it’ll be just like I’m living in the same town. And I can come stay with you guys when Ryan is on tour. I don’t want to stay in Ireland by myself and I can’t travel with the lads. So you’ll be stuck with me for a couple months a year. How does that sound?” “Sounds very good to me. I love you Kristine. Be happy.” “I will Mom…I promise.” Aunt Brin knocked lightly at the door and opened it. “Well now…you didn’t wrinkle the dress did you? I’ve brought the veil. They did a fine job of it, I think.” She held up the veil which was a ring of flowers with a flowing lace veil falling down the back. The lace matched the dress perfectly. It was lovely. She set the veil on Kristine’s head and pinned it in place. Meagan and Teresa walked in with their dresses on. “Well it looks like we’re ready to go. Everyone have their things? Kristine…did you get someone to put your bags in the trunk? You won’t be coming back here tonight.” With a nod from everyone, Brin led the way out the door and to the cars. Kristine’s dad was waiting by the car. “Daddy’s little girl…all grown up.” He hugged and kissed her. Kristine couldn’t believe the tears in his eyes. “Ah dad…not you too.” She started tearing up again. “I swear…I haven’t cried this much …in …ever!” “Now dad…don’t start the girl a cryin again!” Brin said in her matter of fact way. Everyone got into the cars and headed to the chapel.
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