A long year....and a break

 Dear readers, 

First of all, hope you're all OK as well as your loved ones. It has been 15 (long) months, roughly, since the start of the pandemic. We had 3 lockdown, many shops have closed, re-opened, closed and re-opend again, many other restrictions, some have been lifted, while some are still in place for the time being. Patience...(yes, I'm aware it's not easy especially when you want to travel and/or see your family). 

But in other good news, vaccine is here! So, don't wait! ;) 

Meanwhile...

I'm not going anywhere but have realized I don't feel as enthusiastic as I was when I first started this blog, nor have written much lately. I'm sure I'll come back at some point or change my mind. Who knows? But for now....a break is needed. 

Thank you again for those who still read what I wrote, even after all this time (11 years, 4 months, 1 week and a few hours give or take but who's counting?) 😉😅

Take care and see you around :) xxx

Coronavirus, or how to slow down the whole world

Dear readers,

Just a quick article today, hoping everyone is OK, safe and more importantly healthy.

As we enter uncertain times, and as most of our daily live is starting to slow down, don't forget that you're not alone. We are all in this together.

Don't forget to stay in touch with your friends, and family (it helps to keep sane, especially if you are working from home and/or in self-isolation), to take a short walk every day-if you can, fresh air can be beneficial, read a good book, watch your favorite(s) TV show or movie(s), drink tea (or coffee if you prefer),  or do some ironing (lol), listen to music, sing along if you want to, but keep busy as much as possible :) so you don't think too much about this bloody virus.

I'm aware it's not easy but every little things (small or big) can help (if not for quoting Tesco catchphrase lol).

Take care, and above all stay safe and healthy (I know I've said it at the beginning of my article but who cares?) *smile*

See around soon for another article xxx

....and 10 years :)

Dear readers,

I hope you're all OK since my last article? Sorry, I haven't taken the time to write very much these past months.

I just wanted to wish my blog a very belated HAPPY BIRTHDAY as it has now reached ten years! :) I still can't believe it sometimes but apparently it's true ;)
So, thank you again for your patience and support, even if I admit, I do write less and less these days. Whether it's because I'm busy or simply because I don't always feel very inspired...
In any case, I hope you're still enjoying it :)

However, the question of keeping this blog active is a recurring thought as I don't know if you're still interested or if I'm inspired enough to continue. Not that I don't like my blog anymore, of course not. It has been a safe place to share my thoughts (books, movies, friendship, love) , anything else going through my mind at the time...) or/and my fears (sometimes) etc... but a part of me feels like I have come to a cross road. Sort of.  And I don't know yet whether to continue or not. We'll see in the coming months.

Meanwhile, for those who celebrate,  happy Valentine's Day in advance and for those who don't (like me), it's OK too :)  there are absolutely no pressure. Don't feel guilty just because you have no plans.
I could probably write a novel on the subject (lol).

Take care and see you all around xxx

The Bridgerton-Update

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK and are enjoying the summer so far...?

Just a quick update related to my previous article regarding the upcoming Netflix series 'The Bridgerton' based on Julia Quinn's famous books, which I've read and read and read again... :)

The cast is, almost I think, complete and the filming has started in London.
It will be on Netflix in 2020. More later :)

Take care and see you soon for another article! :) xxx 

The Bridgerton: Books vs Netflix

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK and are currently enjoying the Summer?
Sorry, I haven't written in a long time...

In the meantime, I don't know if you're aware or know about the Bridgerton already? (If not, you definitely should!). The author (Julia Quinn) imagined a family of eight children, named in alphabetical order (Anthony, Benedict, Colin, Daphne, Eloise, Francesca, Gregory and Hyacinth), living in the middle-of the 19th Century. As you can imagined, a lot happens, with their mother's meddling and encouraging them to marry, their constant banter, the mysterious Lady Whistledown and other intrigues....that I'll let you discover :)  I can guarantee they'll make you laugh and cry at the same time. Almost impossible to stop reading! :)

However, I recently discovered that it was to become a TV series, coming soon on Netflix. I'm a bit...how can I say? Hum...divided, shall we say? In a way, I'm curious and intrigued as to what the result is going to be, as I read the books and I always wondered what the characters would like if a TV series or a movie would ever be made one day. It might be fun to watch after all. It might be a good TV show, despite my misgivings. And I won't know until I watch it, that's for sure. But a part of me is also worried. Not too worried. Just a little bit. Mostly because half the time, whenever they tried to adapt books whether it's for the cinema or the TV, it's a...disaster. Sorry but it can be sometimes. It's either too much. Or too cheesy. Or they cut most of what happened in the books (e.g Harry Potter franchise or Twilight being one of many examples, there are probably others) or tend to change everything. The main reason...money. Or the director has his or her own visions, which can differ, I guess, from the book(s).
Also, Netflix is big machine...so to speak (like Amazon Prime). Some TV shows rarely get a proper chance. And disappear too soon. Whatever the reason is (bad reviews, not many interests, too expensive...). Each streaming company has its own policy.

Anyway, that's just me. You're welcome to have your opinion. And, like I said, above, I won't know specifically until I saw at least one episode (whenever its released, although it might be a while as they are only starting to assemble the cast). So more later....I'll keep you posted.
Whilst waiting, you can read the books in  advance ;)
Take care and see you soon for another article xxx

P.s= There are also prequels....if you are interested?

Wherever you are

Dear readers,

Hope you're OK and have been enjoying this early sunny Spring :)

 I won't be long today, sorry it'll be a short article.  I'll try to come back soon :)
Meanwhile, I think a picture can speak a thousands words or so they say...;-)
I choose this one, not because of the author (although I do enjoy her books) but mostly due to the title...that kind of speak to me.

This article is dedicated to a very special someone whom I  miss very much :) Take care and see you soon for another article :) xxx

And 9 years :)

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK?

First, I apologize for not writing sooner but I wasn't inspired and have been quite busy. I'm still trying to figure out a few things out at the moment.

Meanwhile, a question keeps returning (I think I may have mentioned it a few years ago) as to whether or not I'll continue writing this blog. Mostly because I don't write as much as I used to. But I've decided to keep my blog for the time being, it'll just write sporadically ( not as often).

Anyway, it is with a few days delay that I would like to wish my blog a very happy birthday :) 9 years! I can't still believe it :) Hope you're still enjoying it! :) In any case, thank you for following my articles ! :)

Take care and see you soon for another article :) xxx

A very special thought :)

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK and are enjoying this festive season as another Christmas (makes you realize how time flies by sometimes) is about to roll in...turkey, mince pies, smoke salmon, foie gras (for those who have a big appetite), beans...and probably many others (which I probably forgot!) and of course the gifts...:)

Anyway, just a short article today (don't worry Elsie & Ethan will be back soon), I won't be long.
This article is dedicated to a very special person whom I miss very much :)

Take care and see you soon for another article, have a good week! :)

Elsie&Ethan are back (again)

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK and enjoying the beginning of the winter, despite it being quite fresh!? :)
Sorry (again), I'm aware I haven't been writing very much lately...:)

Anyway, let's go back to Elsie & Ethan, shall we? Last time, if I remember correctly , Ethan was asking H.R for a possible new assistant and Elsie was juggling between her mum living with her and her break-up or shall we say her time part from Ned.

 And now...

She really didn't know what the right term was as she hated the term 'we're on a break', which constantly reminded of the running gag between Ross and Rachel, in the famous T.V show (and her favorite in passing) F.R.I.E.N.D.S, you rarely ever knew anyway what it meant. You could either think your relationship was over and therefore (if the opportunity arises) might be tempted to seek comfort elsewhere OR you thought you were temporarily apart and might be able (hopefully) to put this all behind and reunite. Everything was possible. Exactly. Who is to say that Ned may have already set his attention on someone else whilst away from her? Or that like he said, he needed time to think this through on his own? Elsie sighed. Her mum's words certainly didn't help either. Why did she have to take Ned's side? Why not try and see her point of view? Was it too difficult? She thought as her mum's footstep faded away.
A few minutes later, her phone vibrated. Lost in her thoughts and still thinking about what Ned was doing, Elsie forgot to check the caller I.D as she answered: 'Ned?'

'Um, sorry, no. Is this Miss Elsie Fitzpatrick?'
'Y-yes....who is this?'
'Hello, I'm Mrs Watson from H.R at Martin&Wood Associate?' There probably wasn't a interrogation point needed but Elsie could still hear it.
'Hello, yes...what can I do for you?'
'It's rather...um...' She paused. '..an unusual request actually...'
'Oh? Is there a problem?'
'No, not exactly...'
'OK, can you tell me why you're calling me? I don't-'
'I apologize. There isn't any problem...it's just-'
'Am I fired?'
'F-fired? No!' Mrs. Watson exclaimed. 'Absolutely not. Sorry. Again. It's just Mr. Martin-'
Why couldn't she get to the point? Elsie took a deep breath. 'What is it?' What did they want now?
'Mr Martin needs a assistant'
'Yes. So? Doesn't he have one already? I'm on maternity leave...I've been told that-'
'We know' She interrupted her. 'However, none of them seem to work out'
'Why not? It's not that complicated, well, maybe sometimes but-'
'I'm aware. Mr Martin is, shall we say, getting impatient' (in better terms, he wasn't getting his way) ' and despite our best effort, we haven't been able to find a suitable candidate'
'I'm not sure how I can help...usually-'
'She isn't here at the moment' Mrs Watson said referring to Marge, one of his usual assistant. 'She is off sick'
'Oh, I hope she feels better soon'
'Mm-mm... anyway, we need you to come back until she's recovered. I don't think it'll be long. Of course, you'll be compensated for your troubles. In meantime, if you could-'
'Wait! Stop! Listen, I'm sorry for...everything but I'm afraid I can't'
'Why not?'
'Because for one, I'm pregnant'
'Yes, we know' She replied patiently.
'And second, I'm on bed rest. This is why I had to leave a little earlier than planned. My doctor doesn't-'
'It should be fine' She interrupted Elsie. 'You'll mostly be sitting at your desk anyway, it shouldn't be a problem'
No, I won't! If Elsie knew something about her job, is that she was rarely sitting down, more like running around all day. Barely having a minute to herself.
'Listen, I'm sorry. I'm sure there are plenty of other assistant who can help him better than I can at the moment. I-I have to go. Good luck' Elsie hang-up, feeling tired. She turned off her phone, just in case. She wasn't in the mood. Suddenly, being in the four walls of the bedroom, wasn't enough. She needed some fresh air...
A short walk should do the trick.

Meanwhile...

'What do you mean? She said what exactly?'
'She said she couldn't do it' Mrs Watson repeated, not for the first time.
'Why ever not? Didn't you mentioned that she would-'
'I did'
'And that she also would get-'
'Yes! I'm not stupid'
'I apologize I've never implied that you were. I just...' His voice trailed off. 'Never mind. Do you have another candidate?'
'Not at the moment. But I'll keep looking'
'Thank you' Ethan was about to hang-up when he asked one last question (or favor) to Mrs. Watson.

To be continued....
Hope you're still enjoying it? :) No worries, they will meet soon...;-)
Take care and see you soon for another article.
Copyright-all rights reserved.

Elsie&Ethan (let's call it this way for now) :)

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK and enjoyed your summer?! Sorry, I haven't been writing much...but I have had a lot of my mind (still do actually).

Anyway, let's go back to Elsie&Ethan :)
Last time, Ethan was going to an event with his then 'girlfriend' but the evening didn't turn out the way it was suppose to. They ended-up parting ways. As he went to his office the next morning, a serious conversation with his assistant was in order, not that the latter seemed very concerned...
Whilst, Elsie had to deal telling her mum there wasn't going to be a wedding because her and Ned were on a break. It wasn't easy of course but somehow her mum blamed her!

And now...

'You wanted to see me, sir?' His assistant said, still looking innocent. How does she do it? Ethan wondered.
'Yes, indeed. Can you explain something to me?'
'Um, sure. But explain what?'
Oh dear God! Ethan had to stay calm. He took a deep breath. 'Explain about last night?'
'OK, what about last night?' Was she doing that on purpose? 'Didn't you have a good time?'
'Well, let see, shall we? The car you ordered was late, consequently, there was traffic, so we were late. Nor that it mattered fortunately, because Selena loves to make an entrance. Anyway, the evening didn't exactly ended there. We were sitting at the same table and-'
'So? You are a couple, aren't you? Why wouldn't you be seated at the same table?'
'Yes' Ethan replied as patiently as he could. 'However, we were also seated at the same table as one of Selena's rival. And let me tell you, it wasn't fun! Because then Selena even wanted more attention..by wanting to dance with me in front of these people! Making an even more fool of herself'
'Oh...'
'Indeed.  Now, tell me, what happened?'
'Nothing. I did exactly as you asked' His assistant - Crap, I'd better learn their names...what is Bethany? Beverley?-shrugged.
'I wonder if you did because the evening didn't go according to plan and-'
'It's not my fault!' She exclaimed.
'How is it not? You were the person in charge, were you not?' Stay calm...
'Well, yes but-'
'But what?'
'I'm just a temporary replacement' She explained. 'I usually work with Mr Wood'  He was Ethan's partner and associate. A good friend and hard working mostly but he preferred fun to work whenever he could. 'H.R asked that I filled in for a while. Mr Wood is-'
'...away, yes' Ethan interrupted her. No need to go into detail. 'However, whether you're a temporary replacement or not, you should still be able to do your job properly'
'I did!'
Ethan sighed. She was really determined. 'Don't tell me it was because last night was anything but...despite having left specific instructions'
'If you say so...now can I get back to work, please?'
What? Ethan blinked several times. Was she for real? 'Excuse-me?'
'I need to get back to work. I'm also handling Mr Wood's-'
'Just go' Ethan resigned himself to ask human resources to find someone else to cover. Dave's assistant would go back to her old job.
Beverley/Bethany or whatever her name was (I might need to learn it) shrugged and left his office. A few laughs were heard soon after. Damn it! That is it!
Ethan  immediately called human resources and  all they could do was being surprised and asked: 'Again?'
*****

'Elsie! I know you're in there!' Her mum knocked on her bedroom door. Elsie stayed silent. 'Come on, let's talk about this, like adults'
Like adults? Ah! Elsie wanted to laugh. She'd just announced she was leaving her husband and practically refused to talk about it.
'Elsie!' 'I'm sure you can find a compromise. Ned is a-seems at least-like reasonable guy. If you apologize to him, he might-'
Wow, wait a minute! Elsie got-up. 'Excuse-me?'
'Ah, I knew you were there. Open the door, so we can talk'
'No, I'm not opening the door, Mum. How could you!'
'How could I what?'
'Don't you see? You're taking Ned's side, but I'm your daughter, you should support me'
'I'm!'
'By telling me, I made a mistake turning down Ned?'
'Well, you did. Men like Ned don't often come around and you're not getting any younger'
'Oh, OK, so, I should just marry Ned just for the sake of it? Huh? Well, sorry to disappoint you, that's not how things work. At least not for me. I want the real things. I want to be able to make my own decision on whether or not, I want to get married. And could please, just this once, believe in me? Take my side? Believe that I'm doing the right thing?'
'Honey, I-'
Elsie brushed away her tears. 'So nice of you. Can you just go, please?'
She looked under her door, her mum's feet hesitating before her steps faded away. She sat down on her bed, her heart beating faster. Had this really happened?

A few minutes later, Elsie had barely recovered for the conversation with her mum when her mobile vibrated. Lost in her thoughts, she didn't check the caller ID. 'Ned?' She replied absently.

To be continued...
Hope you're still enjoying it? Thanks again for following their adventures. And I meant what I said, Elsie and Ethan will meet soon...just  a little bit patience :)
Take care and see you soon for another article, xxx
Copyright-all right reserved.

Elsie&Ethan: title still in progress (although maybe I should simply call it "Elsie&Ethan")

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK, despite all the rain we have had lately :)

Tonight, another small extract of Elsie&Ethan's adventures…:)

A brief resume of what happened last time: Elsie, after a horrible evening at Ned'd parents, found herself taking a break from her relationship with Ned (not her idea). As for Ethan, he's now more than convinced that something at his office IS definitely going on…

And now…

'Ethan? Aren't you going to say something?' Selena's voice came.

The car had been late. The traffic had been awful, therefore they'd arrived late, although that part Selena didn't seem to mind. She loved the fact they were fashionably late as she put it. She thought it was the thing to do. Everybody did these days apparently. Then, their names wasn't on the list, and they had to clear-up the misunderstanding. If it wasn't for the assistant of the person organizing the black tie event recognizing them eventually, they might have had to turn around. By then, Ethan wondered why Selena was still with him.
Even more so, when they found themselves at the same table of one of Selena's rival. Everyone knew it. And everyone knew that they always avoid each other if they could. The only person not having known that fact was his current assistant...Ethan had a feeling they were going to have a very different conversation tomorrow morning.
Later on, as the evening passed, Selena had insisted on dancing. A very reluctant Ethan had had to agree, hoping she would put this silly rivalry off-at least for the rest of the evening. Except it wasn't to be so. Selena, not only wanted to be the centre of attention, she also wanted to the queen of the dancefloor. Not kidding…
At some point, having had enough for one evening, Ethan finally insisted that they returned to their table. Selena wasn't too happy but she followed him nonetheless. However, she practically ignored him for the next hour. If she thought Ethan cared, he didn't. Go figure…

After mingling and exchanging a few words with a few other guests, Ethan decided to leave. He was tired and wanted to have a good night sleep. Silly but right now, very much true. Maybe his recently married brother had rubbed off on him…
Ethan smiled as he made his way towards the exit. He'd tried to look for Selena but she seemed busy elsewhere, not that she'd noticed whether he was here or not.
As he waited for the car, Selena, probably warned by someone, had joined him, looking rather furious.

'Ethan...aren't you going to say something?'
'Me? What am I suppose to say?' Ethan turned towards her.
'That you're sorry the evening has been a disaster? That you're going to make it up to me?'
'Selena...' Ethan sighed. 'What would be the point?'
'Excuse-me? This whole thing has been all your fault and-'
'No, it's not and I have had about enough of your accusations' Ethan replied.
'Ethan, sweetheart, I really like you but right now, I'm not certain I do, so unless you apologize in the next few seconds, you're going to-'
'To what, Selena? Regret it? Is that it? Well, let me let you on a little secret, sweetheart, I already do'
'Oh!' Selena gasped.
'Now, if you'll excuse-me, I'd like to go back to my appartement...alone'

Which Ethan did. As his car drove away, he looked outside the window. But not at the others cars driving around, or the tall illuminated buldings or the people still out, no, he was looking at the stars…

******
The next morning,

'So, how did it go last night?' Elsie's mum asked as soon as Elsie arrived in the kitchen for breakfast. Had she been up all night waiting to ask Elsie? Or simply got-up early so she could ambush her? Knowing her mother, it could be both...oh boy!

'And hello to you too mum' Elsie mumbled as she made herself a cup of tea and a toast.
'Hello...now, did you have a good time? I bet you did...Ned is such a gentleman...I mean at first, I guess I was bit skeptical but when I talked to him whilst you were getting ready, I realized you could do worse than him...at least, so unlike your father, you should count your blessings, Elsie! That Ethan is a keeper! He is determined to marry you and everything! Oh, I'm so happy, my little girl finally getting married!' She clapped her hands, smiling.

'Mum, I-' Elsie tried.
'Finally! I will able to tell Mrs Goldberg' (their neighbors), 'that old harpie! Always judging! Just because her son and two daughters did marry, and they have another son practically engaged, that's not a reason to brag...'
'Mum, come on, that's not-'
Ah, I'd love to see her face when I tell her the news!' 'It'll be priceless!' Yes, but what about my sister? She got married...Elsie thought. Except her mum was on a roll...
'
Mum, I-we, um, don't care about-'
'No, of course, not! You're the best...and you're going to have such a beautiful wedding! I can't wait to help you organize it! Oh, this going to be so much fun...choosing the dress, the flowers., the venue,..ah' She sighed again. 'Oh, I forgot, have you set a date yet? Because it could be a Spring wedding? Or summer wedding, although maybe not...it might be too hot? Or late summer? Early autumn can be very romantic as well...you know. Or you could-'
'Mum!' Elsie exclaimed 'Stop it! Just stop, please?'
'Elsie, honey? What's wrong? I'm sorry if I got carried away but it 's your wed-'
'If you say the word 'wedding' one more time, I'm kicking you out! And I don't care where you're staying!'
'Elsie!' Her mum gasped.
'Mum, I'm sorry to disappoint you but there isn't going to be a...wedding, OK?'
'Why ever not? Didn't Ned propose? That scoundrel!'
'Mum, no, he-'
'Wait, you're not already married are you? Because if you're and you didn't tell me, I-'
'Mum!' Elsie managed. 'The reason there isn't going to be one is that...Ned and I...are taking a break'
'A break?'
'Yes and I would appreciate if-'
'A break? Elsie! What did you do? Why Ned broke-up with you?'
'We didn't break-up...we're just taking some time a part to think about what we want' Elsie felt silly repeating almost word for word what Ned had said last night. But strangely that was the only thing that helped. Maybe if she said it enough time, it might make sense. 'And why do you assume it's my fault?'
'Because you're the one who don't want to commit'
'Oh my God!' Elsie exclaimed. 'Of course, I want to commit, but like I said, although apparently everyone conveniently forget we live in the twenty-first century, we don't have to get married just for the sake of the baby!'
'No, but...it's the right thing to do!'
Elsie groaned. She gave-up. What was the point? It appeared that everyone was against her. That they didn't care about her feelings or listening to her point of view…
Slowly, Elsie got-up and took her cup of tea along with her.
'Elsie? Where are you going? You haven't finish your breakfast yet!'
'I'm going to my room, so I can have some peace and quiet! And I'd like NOT to be disturd'

On that note, Elsie did exactly that.

******

As Ethan arrived at his office, his assistant greeted him as if nothing was abnormal. As if nothing had gone wrong the evening before. As if everything was the same. And went back to talking to one of her colleagues...OK, maybe it wouldn't be so difficult after all...

'My office, now...' Ethan said firmly. His patience had run out…

To be continued…
Don't worry, Elsie&Ethan will meet very soon…:)
Take care and see you for another article :) xxx

Elsie & Ethan: Title still undecided

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK and enjoying the beginning this late Spring, early Summer :)

Sorry, I haven't written these past few months. First, work was quite busy and still have a lot on my mind.

Anyway, let's go back to Elsie&Ethan, shall we? :) Hope you're still enjoying it?!

Last time, Elsie was reminded by her mum that she was having dinner at Ned's parents. Doesn't really look foward to it as they keep hinting that they should get married. And Ethan receives a visit., whilst being distracted as he's trying to figure out what's going on his office…

And now….

'Elsie!'
Elsie growned but didn't move. For once, she was comfortable. All she wanted was some peace and quiet. For a few hours. If possible...'Elsie!'
Go away. 'Elsie!  Wake-up! Honey, you're going to be late...'
Late? For what?
'Elsie!' Someone gently shook her. Elsie opened her eyes slowly, getting used to the light. She saw her mum standing over her. Elsie frowned.
"I'm awake...no need to shout' Elsie mumbled 'What's going on?'
'What's going on? I'm going to tell you what's going on! Neds here and he's waiting for you! So while, I keep him compagny, you're going to change, brush  your hair, maybe put some make-up on and parfum because you don't have time to take shower. And hurry!'
'Ned's here…?' Elsie frowned before it came to back her. Ned's parents! They were supposed to have dinner with them. 'Oh, god! Sorry, I fell alseep...'
'That you did! But now not the time to dwell on that, you should get ready...'

Elsie took a deep breath. She really didn't want to go. What was the point? She was tired. she wanted to stay and snuggle on the couch, whilst watching a movie and fall alseep in front of it. except she'd to go and play nice with  Ned's snobby parents. Great! Kill me now. Elsie must have mumbled it  at loud because:
'I heard that!' her mum exclaimed.
'Oh, sorry...' Elsie slowly got-up and made a quick stop by the bathroom. She still didn't know how she managed it but soon they were, although a little late, on their way…

******

'What do you mean it's me?' Selena, Ethan's current girlfriend  asked.
'No reason...' Ethan got-up and kissed her gently. 'Sorry, just a lot going on..did we have a date or Something?'
'Ethan!' Selena exclaimed 'Is this a joke?'
'A joke? What? No….what are you talking about?'
'The black tie event…? That's tonight and you invited me, remember?' 'Or have you forgotten already?'
'No, I haven't forgotten...' Ethan pretended. 'I'd know, come on, you're hard to forget'
'I know' She nodded 'but how do you know you haven't? Because unless your assistant isn't trying to take care of the last minute details for tonight, I'm pretty sure she has or you have forgot for that matter'
'If she is, what's the problem? Oh...' Ethan realized.
'Indeed...I was right once again' Selena sighed.
'Listen, I'm really sorry if I did forget, that wasn't my intention...it's just that lately, things at the office have been kind of strange'
'Strange how?' Selena frowned. 'I mean your assistant might a little over her depth, but otherwise, it's the same to me'
'I know. And I have been trying to convince myself, that is the same, except it's not'
'Oh?'
'You see, my schedule is all messed-up, my appointements are either cancel or double-booked, messages get lost, people are getting impatient...'
'Is this why you...have been distracted lately?'
'Yes'
'I see. Well, there is one thing to do'
'And what is that?'
'Hire another assistant'
'Another one? As...severals assistants working together or...completely change?'
'The latter' Selena replied.
'I appreciate the advice...however, no one is firing anyone just yet. I'm sure there is a perfect explanation...maybe it's just a computer glitch'
'If you say so' Selena shrugged 'but don't say I didn't warn you'
'Mm-mmh...OK, then...are you still up for going tonight?'
'Of course, I'm!' She exclaimed 'I wouldn't missed it for the world!'
'Great!' Ethan grinned. 'Let's go then...'

******

Elsie glanced at Ned, who was driving (well who else, she couldn't anymore). He was focusing on the road, looking very serious. She sighed. the evening had been a disaster. Not only Elsie had tried (again) for the sake of their future baby, her effort had gotten shut down completely. She barely had the chance to show them who she was. They had clearly already made-up her mind about her.

'You''ve been rather quiet since we left, are you OK?' Elsie asked.
'I'm fine' Ned replied.
'Ned, l'm sorry if I-'
'Elsie, I don't want talk about it, if you don't mind'
'OK' Elsie turned her head, glancing outside. Looking at the stars. Cliché but somehow it made her feel better. Less alone.
A few minutes passed before Ned spoke:

'Why?'
'Why what?'
'Why is it that every time we see my parents,  it always ends in a fight and I have to pick a side?'
'Ned, you know that's not true...' Elsie protested.
'Oh, really? So, that comment about being an independant woman and not wanting to get married wasn't perhaps?'
'Oh, come on! That's unfair and you know it'
'How?'
'Ned, we...dated a couple of times in all, we slept together which lead to...you know' Elsie glanced at her large belly. 'and now, your answer, despite agreeing with me before, is to get married!'
'Why not? I mean I know I've been reluctant before, but that's not a bad idea. We could be a family. A real family'
'Aren't we already?'
'Y-yes but we could such much more and I want to give my baby...the best. A mum and a dad. together, living under one roof'
'And married I take it?'
'Exactly'
'What suddenly made you change your mind?'
'My parents...they showed me what it could be and growing-up I couldn't imagine-that if I ever chose to get married-not having the same kind of marriage they had-have today'
Elsie wanted to laugh. Really laugh. She had to bite her tongue in order not to. Then again, she'd to respect Ned's opinion.
'I'm glad they did' Elsie replied carefully 'but that doesn't mean we have to...get married, just because people are telling us we should'
'Yes, so you said'
'Ned...'
'I want more Elsie and I have tried to be patient, to give you the space you needed but...lately, I don't know'
'What are you saying exactly?'
'I'm saying we should take  a break, take time to think about what we really want'
'A break? Are you Breaking-up with me?'
'No, a break as...pushing the pause button, you were right, we don't know each other that well'
'Wow...I knew the evening was a total bust but I-I didn't think we would, um, break-up' Elsie didn't want to cry, but when you were a pregnant woman, your hormones levels was doubled. Or tripled.
'Elsie, sweetheart, we're not breaking-up, we're just taking some time to think'
'So...why does it feel like it is?' Elsie murmured. To that, Ned had no answer. Maybe that was for the best…

******

Meanwhile, accross town, another evening. Another disaster. And suprisingly not Ethan's fault….

To be continued…
Thank you again for following Elsie and Ethan's adventures, and for your patience. They'll met soon…:)
Take care and see you soon for another article :) xxx
Coyright-all rights reserved.

Elsie&Ethan: another extract :)

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK since my last article :)

Last time, we followed Elsie, trying to balanced between her mum still living with her and her baby's arrival soon, as for  Ethan, he keeps wondering what's missing in his office...

And now...

'Oh bugger!' Elsie hung-up her phone. She had tried calling her dad and asked for his help, possibly convince his wife to come back home, and she'd gotten his voicemail. Not unusual, per se, as she didn't expect him to stay glued to his phone. However, she'd a feeling her dad was avoiding her. She couldn't explain it. Or maybe it was just her hormones. Elsie sighed. In any case, it was a moot point. Her mum could be as stubborn as a mule. So was her dad. So...it would be a long long time before the two of them found a middle ground.

Sitting on a park bench, Elsie patted her belly, absently looking around, wondering whether the other people's life was as crazy as her at the moment. Probably not. Her mobile rang, interrupting her train of thoughts. Distracted, she answered, thinking it was her dad, calling her back. It wasn't.

'Hello?' 'Um, yes...'
'Oh, thank God! Finally!' A voice exclaimed. It sounded familiar but somehow Elsie's brain (probably due to the pregnancy was working slowly).  'I've left a bunch of messages! Don't you ever answer your phone? Do you know in what century we're living in?'
'Er...I think so and no, I'm sorry I-'
'No need. Apology accepted. Now, I need-'
'I didn't-' Elsie protested but the person seemed unware and on a roll.
'...I need to know where the file is?'
'The f-file?' Elsie frowned. What was she on about?'
'Yes! The file! Keep up, will you? I don't have all day, OK? Oh, and I also need to know if you confirmed the black and tie event tonight on Mr Martin's schedule? I need to book a car and-'

Mr Martin. Right. As in Ethan Martin. Her boss. Who didn't even know she existed. Let alone what her name was. Not that the desperate assistant, Elsie deduced, appeared to know either.

'Listen, let me stop you right there...I'm sorry but I'm on leave a the moment and all important informations related to Mr. Martin's specific needs or expectations are not that complicated to figure out...but if you really don't know the answer, ask Marge. Goodbye' Elsie turned off her phone. Enough. I need peace. And then some more.

*****
Why did it keep happening? Ethan wondered as he made his way back to his office. Everything was a mess. Lately, it was as if chaos had replaced peace. Appointements were either double booked or disappeared entirely. Or cancelled even. Or moved to other dates. Lunch or dinner dates were mixed-up. Gifts too. Phone numbers  were not they were supposed to be and his messages...well, let's not that about that. Or the fact that his filing system was also a mess. The elevator doors opened. Ethan got out and went directly to his office, not stopping to hear anyone. Ethan closed the door behind, indicating he didn't want to be disturbed. Hopefully, they would get the message. Or not...apparently someone was brave enough to come knocking on his door.

'Yes?' he replied, tersely. 'Oh, it's you...'

*****
'Elsie! Where have you been?' Her mum exclaimed as soon as she came back. 'I have been worried to death...' Elsie looked up to see her sitting on the couch, a wine glass on the coffee table, watching T.V, a cooking show or other.

'I see...' Very worried indeed. 'Um...I'm going to-'
'Next time, it would be nice to know where you're disappearing to. That's what phones are for'
'I know, Mum. Now, I'm going to my room and-'
'Get ready...I imagine'
'Ready? Ready for what?' Elsie frowned.
'Ned's picking you up in an hour'
'He is?'
'Yes. You're going to dinner at his parent's house...or have you forgotten?'
'Um, n-no, no...sorry, I-sorry. Thank you' Elsie nodded, turning around and going to her bedroom. Oh crap! Dinner with Ned's parents? Kill me now! Sorry, that wasn't fair. They were nice people. In all. It was just-OK, there was no other way to say it. They were...a bit judgemental on the fact that she and Ned weren't married. And didn't plan to. They were always dropping hints here and there about 'how it was the right thing to do' and  they at least 'consider getting married for the baby's sake. Yeah, we were in a modern world. A world where you don't necessarily need to get married because you felt like you had to. Elsie had so wanted to explain it to them. Yet, another moot point. They only listened to their own opinion. So, she'd stopped trying and went along with their constant remarks, gritting her teeth, whenever she'd to see them. Fortunately for Elsie, it wasn't very often. Tonight being the exception...
Elsie lay down on her bed, head on the pillow, and closed her eyes...just for a few minutes and then I get ready. Oh my, it feels good to relax...

To be continued...:) Don't worry, Elsie and Ethan will meet soon ;-) Take care and see you soon for another article! :) xxx

Copyright-all rights reserved.

Elsie & Ethan are back :)

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK and are enjoying the beginning of the Spring...:)
I apologize for not writing sooner but I had (still have) a lot on my mind lately.

So, today, another extract on Elsie &Ethan's adventures, hope you still like it ;-)
Last time, we left them, Elsie had Ned visiting and Ethan nursing (or he will be) a hangover...

And now...

'So here we are on the different objectives we had previously...' the voice was closed but also seemed far away. Ethan hide a groan. Man, if I'm not dead before this presentation is over, it'll be a miracle! His hangover was indeed still there from the previous evening. The aspirin taken earlier had yet to take effect. He moved in his seat, trying to focus on what Miles, his colleague, was explaining. Usually, he'd found it interesting but today, it sounded like gibberish. Or something very dull. But he'd to set the examples and appear as if it was interesting. Easier to say than done...Ethan glanced at the window briefly. A whole other world...people coming and going in the street, cars, buses...
'....don't you agree, Ethan?'

He froze, as he finally registered his name had been called. Oh bugger! Ethan cleared his throat, trying to buy himself some time.

'Don't I agree?' Ethan repeated.
'Yes...' Miles replied. 'So?' He's not going to help me, is he? I'm on my own, aren't I?
'Um, I...I'm not sure exactly...'
'Oh. Why?'
'Well, um, I have think it over first...before I-we make a decision'
'Really?'
'Is there a problem?' Ethan frowned, looking Miles directly. 'When in doubt, always stand on your own two feet...and don't back down, otherwise your opponent is going to think you're a fool..' a famous sentence from his late grandpa. One he'd never forget...and seemed rather useful at the moment, even though Ethan wasn't so sure...
A few minutes or a few seconds (it could have been more) passed, and Ethan thought he was going to admit forfeit as Miles seemed perfectly capable and handling the situation, yet...

Miles looked away first. He cleared his throat. 'No, no problem. Take all the time you need. OK, next'
Ethan couldn't believe it. Thanks Grandpa! He hide a smile, as the rest of the meeting went on...

A few days later,

Different. Different can be good, right? There was no rules against it. It meant change. It could also mean a fresh start. If that was the case, why was she plagued by doubts ever since Ned's last visit? Why did his words sounded false? Elsie groaned, putting away her book. I'm going crazy. It probably means nothing anyway. Ned was just being...Ned. Kind and affectionate and thoughtful. It seems he wanted to make things work between them. Except...

'Elsie?' Came her mother's voice.  Oh boy, what now? Elsie wondered. 'We have a problem'
'What problem?' Elsie asked, as patiently as she could.
'This flat, it cannot continue like this!'
'Oh?' A flicker of hope appeared in Elsie's heart. Could it be?
'This isn't possible anymore' Could her mother realize it was time to go back to her dad?
'Um, what do you mean?'
'It's not going to work...this situation'
'OK...well, if you want to g-'
'This flat is a deathtrap! It's not safe!'
I should have known better than to hope. I should have known taking her in would mean she would never ever leave! Elsie wanted to scream.
'My flat is safe, Mum'
'No, it's not! It needs...babyproofing if you still call it like that these days'
'We do and Ned said-'
'I don't care what Ned said...you shouldn't trust men, didn't I teach you that, already?'
'Um...'
'Never trust a man that takes you for granted, let me tell you!'
Oh boy, here we go again...Elsie braced herself for another lecture.

                                                               *****
So, if I were a very important file, where would I be? Ethan looked around, once more. Not like  he hadn't been looking for the past hour but there you go. Actually, it wasn't only this hour, it had been going on for a while now and something, whether people realized it or not, was different. His office looked different. What was a usually well oiled machine, didn't look like one anymore. More like a rusty one. Damn it! Ethan swore. I'm pretty clever, usually, so why can't I figure it out? What's missing?

                                                             ******
Elsie closed the door of her appartement behind her. Enough. She needed to take her life back before it was too late...
To be continued....
Take care and see you soon for another article. Thank you again for following me and my stories :) xxx

Just a few words...

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK ? :)

Just a short article today, I won't be long and let the picture speak for itself :)

Dedicated to someone very special that I still miss very much :)

Take care and see you soon for another article, xxx

Elsie&Ethan, their adventures continues...:)

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK, despite the very fresh temperatures we've got lately and that you're keeping yourself warm enough! :)

Meanwhile, still a lot on my mind and missing England like crazy, more every day...:-) Sorry, I hope I'm not bothering too much you with all that...;-)

Anyway (a word, if you've been reading my blog, that I use quite often^^), let's go back to Elsie&Ethan...

In the last episode, Ethan was still trying to figure out what seemed different at the office and also decided to go have a few drinks with some friends, whilst Elsie is dealing with her mum, now living with her, having suddenly decided to leave her husband of thirty-five years...let's see what happens next! :)

And now...

After she managed to calm her mum down, reassuring her that the food was indeed healthy and that she was absolutely following what her doctor had prescribed, Elsie was about to go back to her room, when the doorbell rang. Elsie stopped in her tracks. What now? Hopefully, not her sister having also left her husband or her dad coming to get his wife back (although that would be helpful), or...someone else with their own problem because she wasn't sure she had any strengh left in her.

'Well...don't stand there and open the door!' Her mum had joined her. 'Why don't you do it yourself then?' Elsie almost blurted out 'as you obviously made yourself at home!' but at the last second, Elsie held her tongue. Not now. She'd to learn how to chose her battles. That wasn't one of them.

Elsie opened the door. 'Ned!' She exclaimed, surprised. Although, why should she be? He was her boyfriend (kind of) and also the father of her baby, he'd the right to come and see her. However, to be honest, with everything going on, Elsie hadn't had time to think about Ned. Was it strange? Elsie frowned.

'Hey honey...' Ned smiled. 'Surprised to see me?'
'Hey Ned...yes, sorry...um, were you suppose to-'
'No, I mean yes, I planned to come earlier than that, but work kept me busy...' He apologized.
'Oh, don't worry, that's OK...I'm happy to see you'
'Me too. So, how's the baby? You haven't been doing anything-'
That was Ned for you. Thoughtful and kind. Always worrying. Elsie shook her head, ready to reply when her mum beat her to it.

'Young man, I'm here to make sure Elsie keeps her feet up at all times...so, you don't have to worry'

'Er...hi and who might you be?'

'I'm Elsie's Mum, Polly,  it's nice to make your acquaintance and I'm guessing you're Ned? She held her hand out.

He shook her hand. 'I'm...and nice to meet you too' 'Um, I didn't know you were visiting'

'Oh, I'm not visiting'

'You're not?'

'No, I'm staying here. With my daughter. For a little while'

Suddenly, Elsie wanted to disappear. Ned glanced at her. 'You...are? I'm not following'

'N-Ned, will you come for a minute? Please?' Elsie managed. Fortunately, Ned got the message and followed her to her bedroom. He closed the door behind them.

'Would you mind explaining?' Ned crossed his arms.

Elsie did. 'So, she's actually leaving with you?' Ned asked, five minutes later.

'Yes, she is...'

'For how long?'

'I have no idea and stop looking at me like that..it's not like I invited her here...she came on her own!'

'I know, I know but can't you tell her-'

Elsie shook her head. 'I...I can't. I mean I tried but...at the end of the day, she's my mum and-'

'I'm aware of that' Ned interrupted her 'However, this is your life, you've to set-up boundaries and you've-we've got the baby coming soon...how do you see it working?!'

'I haven't thought this far ahead and she'll probably go back to my dad soon...it's just a phase' Elsie said, despite knowing deep down, that it might not be just a phase. Yet, what else could she do?

'Let's hope, it is because let me tell you...we absolutely can't live here the four of us...'

'I'm sure it's-wait, what? What did you just say?'

'I hope it's just a phase?'

'No, no, not that part. The part after that?'

'Oh, we can't live the four of us together here...'

'Yes, that one. What, um...what did you mean by that?'

'You, me, the baby and your mum, we can't-'

'Ned, we...how...I...' Elsie stopped.

'It's a bit early to plan everything, I know, but I thought you'd be glad  for us to be a family...'

'I....got that...and I'm...I just wasn't...expecting that' Elsie admitted.

'Why ever not?'

'I don't know....it's-we barely know each other, that's all and this baby is-was a surprise, I didn't know how you felt exactly...'

'Well, it's a way, like any other, I guess and when I said I wanted to be involved, I meant it'

'Oh....'

'You don't seem happy about it?'

'No, um, sorry....' Elsie chuckled 'I...I'm happy...sorry'

Ned smiled, relaxing. 'I'm not going anywhere? OK?' He kissed her gently, before helding her in his arms. Normally, Elsie loved it. Yet, in the middle of all these beautiful words and promises, something felt...different. But what exactly? Oh, stop it! And enjoy the moment, Elsie told herself as she hugged him back.

A few hours later, not so far from Elsie's flat, a taxi picked-up Ethan. He groaned softly as he finally arrived back at his flat. He let the lights off, made a quick trip to the bathrooom before falling asleep on his bed, still wearing his clothes. Last time, I'm ever having this much to drink....was his last thought.

To be continued...:)

Hope you still like their adventures? :) Take care and you soon for another article! :) xxx

Elsie&Ethan's new adventures :)

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK?!

I hope you're still enjoying like I do whilst writing their stories, Elsie&Ethan's adventures....? :)

Last time, we left Elsie dealing with the unexpected arrival of her mum, who had decided to leave her husband...
So let's see what happens next :)

And now...

Something was still...not the same. Yet, Ethan knew it couldn't be possible. After all, everything seemed to be the same as ever. Everything was running smoothly. His professional life as well as his personal was fine.  He had run over in his head every possibilties, every scenario as to why something would be off. It wasn't. OK, Sarah had also noticed something when she'd stopped by to yell at him. But even that didn't prove it was or wasn't the same. Oh, damn it! He sighed. Stop driving yourself crazy! Everything's fine! Stop seeing things that aren't there!

Ethan went back to work. Without too much interference from the rest of his staff. Towards the end of the day, as most of the employees had already left, he turned his computer off, took his jacket and briefcase, closed his office door, making his way towards the elevator. His phone buzzed as the doors opened. Ethan took it out as he went in.

Friends were inviting him from a drink. Drinks more like. The same bunch he often hang out with. They were fun and not too complicated, which Ethan needed right now. Although a part of him wished they could take things more seriously from time to time. Stop making silly jokes (OK, some were still funny) but...some were less fun even though he laughed, just to fit in. Or would give sound advice. Listen. Would be there in case of emergency. Because at the end of the day, these friends weren't going to be around if anything happened such as losing his compagny or if he had a car accident. Fun,yes, they were there a hundred per cent. Serious stuff? Ah, are you kidding me? No way. Not like Paul, his brother was. Or....well, Sarah was. If that was possible. He may have tried to seduce her but that was all pretend. She never took shit from him. She was always straight with him. Never afraid of telling him what she thought of him. And, not that he'd admit it, but he considered Sarah a friend.

The elevator's doors pinged indicating he had arrived at the ground floor, interrupting his thoughts. Maybe for the best or he'd turned into one of...his ex-girlfriends? No. Nope. No. That's not me. He shook his head. What just happened? Ethan glanced at his phone, buzzing again. OK, maybe just a drink. A few at the most. Ethan texted back before he could change his mind.

A few miles away, Elsie was trying NOT to go crazy, such as losing her mind. Living with your parents or one of your parents was one thing when you were growing-up but living with them when you were an adult...not so much! Elsie took a deep breath. Give me strengh...give me strengh not to-

'Elsie!' His mum's voice interrupted her. Barely two days and- 'What kind of food is this? You're pregnant! You should eat healthy! Not that...junk! Who is-' she drove her crazy! 'You won't even know I'm here....she'd said. Well, guess what? I know you're here! 'Oh, that's remind me, we need to-'

OK, kill me now...Elsie sighed, going out of her safe heaven that was her bedroom and see what her mum wanted...

To be continued...:) Take care and see you soon for another article :) xxx

Elsie&Ethan-temporary title

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK and that the start of the new year has started off well :)

In the meantime, sorry I haven't been writing much lalely. I've had a lot on my mind. Anyway, let's go back to Elsie&Ethan's adventure, shall we?

What happened previously? Elsie, heavily pregnant, is put on bed rest by her doctor. She's a bit worried about her work but knows it's best for the baby. After a small misunderstanding concerning her maternity leave, Elsie has to come to the office to sort it out. At the same time, her boss, Ethan is starting to feel something is different but can't put his finger on it....

And now...? Well, let's find out! :) 

Bored. Bored. Bored...Elsie sighed. She knew she was supposed to be 'putting her feet up' and enjoying her maternity leave and she was...in a way. There was no paper pushing, no phone calls, no messages, nothing urgent. Peace and quiet. Just her. So, why wasn't she feeling happy? relaxed? 

Probably because she had had time to catch-up on her reading, her T.V shows, movies she hadn't seen yet, read every magazine she posessed, cleaned every inch of her flat she could without exhausting herself, separating winter and summer clothes, starting to build her babies coat, make a list of things she missed and Ned could get for her later, paying her bills (trying to no think about her salay decreasing every time...) these past few weeks. She hadn't even known she could do all of this. I guess when you have a lot of free time, you can do a lot...

Friends and close relatives had also visited at first but after a while, they had to return to their own lives. Elsie couldn't held them hostage. Shame...we might have had some fun. She laughed, what a crazy idea. See what nothing to do all day, does to my brain? The baby moved, interrupted her train of thoughts. Yeah, I know...Elsie patted  absently, her pregnant belly and soon had to go to the bathroom. 
As she went back to the living room, the door bell rang. Elsie went to open.


'Mum!' She exclaimed. 'What are you-'
'Can't I just visit my daugther?' 
'Of course, you can. i just...wasn't expecting you today, that's all. And-Mum?'
'Yes, honey?' She asked, innocently.Elsie frowned. What was she up to?
'If you're only visiting for a day, why do you have a suitcase?'
'Oh, that...it's, um, a few things I wanted to give-'
'Mum...you're a bad liar, your ears are red..now, why are you really here?' Elsie crossed her arms.
'You know, you look a lot like your father when you do that...'
'I-Mum!'
'What?'
'Stop it! Why are you here?'
'I just thought...I could spend some quality time with you and the baby'
'The baby isn't born yet..'
'And? I can still...' Elsie kept her arms crossed. 'visit for...a few days'
Why had she paused? Why had she paused before finishing her sentence? 
'Besides, you said Ned was...a bit busy lately; so...I won't be in the way' She continued. 
Not in the way? Elsie thought Are you kidding me?
'Mum...you don't vist, remember? Most of the times, I have to come and see you...spill the beans!'
'OK, fine. I have left your father, finally'
'Wait, what?' 'But...I don't understand'
'There is nothing to understand. I was married. I won't be soon. End of story'
'Mum! You threatened to leave him every day but you don't follow through. Why would it be any different? You love Dad...don't you?'
'I do but honey...he won't change. I've cooked and cleaned and...kept a tidy house, paying the bills on time, raised his children, made sure we had rooof over your head. Although apparently that's not enough for him! It's never enough. He takes me for granted you know! Well, not this time! This time I'm taking back my life and I intend to make up for the lost time'
'I...can't you guys talk about it first before doing something...shall we say, irrevocably stupid?'
'Elsie, when you are married, for as long as we have, then you'll undertand. In the meantime, don't judge'
'I'm not, I'm trying to understand'
'Understand what?'
'I don't know...for example, why after more than  35 years of marriage, you suddenly drop a bombshell on us-'
'Your sister doesn't know and I'd like to stay it that way...'
'Even better' Elsie mumbled. 'Mum, this is ridiculous. You can't-'
'I can actually and I did...I won't change my mind...'
'I know' Elsie sighed again. When she got an idea into her head, it was hard to let go. 
'Listen, I'm not planning on staying forever, just a few days, to get back on my feet...' 
'I...no, you-'
'Please, please...you won't even know I'm here' Yes, I will! 
'Mum...' Elsie wanted to be firm, to tell her mum to stop being stupid and talk with her dad like adults. To sort things out. Except...that wasn't how her mum worked. Oh no...quite the opposite in fact. She avoided any sort of conflict, mostly when it didn't serve her own interest. She loved to be right. Hated when she was wrong. However, Elsie made the mistake of looking into her mum's imploring eyes (not really, but she was a good actress whenever she wanted). 'You can't...I mean I-fine, you can stay...but only a few days like you said'
'Thank you, thank you' She hugged her, which she rarely did. 'A week at the most. You won't regret it' I already do...

Suddenly, as Elsie watched her mum making herself right at home, she had a feeling it would be more than a few days or even a week. Great...

Wilst Elsie was trying to figure out a way to cohabitate with her mum and not jumping out of the window (kidding of course), her mobile vibrated. The ID on her screen indicated it was her office calling...but Elsie didn't notice. Maybe that was for the best...at least for now. 

To be continued...
Hope you still like the story! :) Take care and see you soon for another article. xxx

Untitled

Dear readers,

Hope you're all OK and had a nice start in this New Year! :) All the best once again ;-)

So, as promised, here is another extract of my story. I'm not completely sure about the title yet but will let you know. :)

Previously, we left Elsie,  one of our main character, in the doctor's office, being made to take her maternity leave and having to stay on bed rest...:) despite the fact that she has a very demanding boss...

Read what happens next! ;-)

Meanwhile...

Ethan knew something was different. He just couldn't pinpoint what it was exactly. It had been a week. A week of people telling him there was nothing out of the ordinary. Yet, somewhow, it did seem different. 
Not his personal life. No, that part was going fine. Better than fine. Women were always interested in him. He had no problem getting regular dates. Whether or not it was serious was another matter. Ethan liked his life the way it was. Maybe one day, like his older brother Paul, who had recently gotten married, he would think about tying the knot. Just not right this moment. He didn't feel ready to settle down. 
It was more of his professional life that looked...not the same. At first, Ethan hadn't noticed. Why would he? Everything was always ready when he came to work. Everything was neat and tidy. Everything was working like clockwork. Usually. 
Not this time apparently.  Although he did appear to be the only one noticing something was out of place. Everyone else was focusing on their work. Well, Ethan thought, good for them. After all, that what I'm paying them for. However, there is something going on...I just don't what that is! 

A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. 'Come in' Ethan said.

'Ethan Martin! If you don't stop right this minute, I'm going to strangle you or personally ruin every future date you're going to have!'

'Sarah!' Ethan's face, lightened-up. Finally something normal. He'd missed it for the past week. 

'Erase that smile of your face! How many times do I have to say I'm not interested!'

'Well, if you aren't, why are you here? Yelling at me in my office?'

'Oh please! Do be serious for a minute! You know as well as I do, that...this' Sarah pointed out at both of them. '....won't work! Besides, I already have an...overbearing mum who can't wait to marry me off and a...well, never mind...um...so, please...stop sending me flowers and such because I-'

'I-flowers?'

'Yes! Flowers...why?' Sarah frowned.

'I do send flowers sometimes, although not that often, I'm more a jewellery kind of guy, but...I, um, haven't send you flowers recently'

'Y-you didn't?'

Ethan shook his head. 'Sorry'

'Oh my...God! How...embarassing!' Sarah put her head between her hands. She groaned before raising her head. 

'Maybe but it got you to come to my office'

'Not helping!' 

Ethan chuckled. 'So, what made you think I had...?'

'...sent me flowers?'

He nodded. 'Oh, er...there was a card attached and...' Sarah took it out of her jacket. 'I...it's silly really' 

'May I?'

'Sure...' Sarah gave it to him. 

'Oh my, this guy is really...cheesy! He even signed 'Your secret admirer'!'

'No need to-'

'And...how could think it was from me?

'i don't know! OK! I just-' Sarah exclaimed 'I'm sorry...I-'

'It's alright' Ethan assured her 'It could have been from me...if I was seventeen and very-aouch!' Sarah had punched him on the shoulder. 

'That's for making fun of me!' 

'I wasn't-'

'You were going to!'

'OK, OK...just please, don't punch me again'

'Fine. I'll let you go back to work'

'Thanks' 'So, any clue as to who it could be?'

'No...' Sarah said softly 'maybe...I-I'm not sure...anyway, it doesn't matter...probably just a prank from...someone'

'Mm...' 

'OK, I'm off...and could we keep that between us?'

'I don't know...what do you offer in exchange for my silence?'

'Ethan! I'm not in the mood to-'

'I was kidding! Your secret's safe with me'

'It better be...' Sarah glanced around, frowning.

'What?'

'Er...nothing, it's just...um, nothing'

'No, what?'

'Your...um, office looks...different'

'It does? I haven't noticed any....changes' Didn't he?

'Not that I know, I rarely come to your office...so, I'm probably wrong'

'Yeah...' Ethan wasn't sure either. 

'Anyway, have a good day'

'Mm...thanks' 

And Sarah left. Ethan sat down at his desk, lost in his thoughts. He didn't notice Elsie going in the elevator. She had to come to the office, as there had been a misunderstanding with her maternity leave. Elsie sighed. What a week...

'Could you hold the elevator please?' Came a voice. 

'Oh...' Elsie pushed the button to hold the door just in time.

'Thanks' the woman said, smiling. The elevator door closed just as Ethan risked a quick glance outside his office...

To be continued...hope you still like it!? :) Take care and see you soon for another extract...:) xxx

Work in progress

Dear readers,

Hope you had a nice Christmas and that Santa spoiled you this year...:)

I didn't think I'd write today, but there you go...sometimes inspiration can surprise you and what better way to end this year with a smile :) hopefully you'll like this article as I'm listening to a few christmassy songs and enjoying a little fire in the cheminey...;-) can't help it, probably am still in the Christmas spirit! :) Never hurt anyone, did it?

Anyway, as the end of the year approaches, my head is still full of questions but no answers just yet...hopefully I'll figure it out soon...I don't know exactly...I do like my current job, it's quite interesting and I'm learning a lot but the enthusiasm (if you could say that) isn't there anymore...my head is full of dream of writing and going back to England if possible (bloody Brexit though!)....in one word, I quite apprehend the next year...but enough about me-at least for now (rire) let's enjoy the rest of the day and prepare ourselves to go into 2018 peacefully...:)

So to do just that...here is a little surprise for you...please bear with me...no I haven't met anyone special yet, nor am I getting married (rire), OK, I know that was silly! I'm sure you weren't assuming lol :) I meant I wanted to share a story with you and as it is just coming out my head (not literally), you have guessed, I'm writing it as I go along...that's why! :) this story (like others) has been in my mind for while and I don't know...just taking a leap of faith and hope you'll like it as much as I do enjoyed writing it...:) although, this will only be a (short) extract as I decided to write the other extract over the next few weeks or at least soon...if that's OK with you?! :) let's hope so! ;-)

Here it is then....
But before I start, I will just add that one of the character will appear in another one of my stories...don't worry, you won't be lost, he only makes a few brief appearances.  So it won't be too difficult.

'So, that's why I decided to put on-' the doctor was saying but Elsie wasn't listening. Her gaze on the poster, on the wall behind. '...rest. I think it's best for now and-' What is it how it happens exactly? Could you actually feel it? Actually, how were you suppose to feel? Happy? Estatic? Overwhelmed? And more importantly: Did it hurt? Did you need so many painkillers you couldn't remember what had happened whilst giving birth to your first child?  Oh boy...'take it from here...I'll see you in a few weeks to check-up on...Mrs Fitzpatrick? Are you...listening to-' her doctor paused, following her gaze. '....Oh, I see. This is just to show how...the baby grows inside of your womb and...how it changed position before-'

'I know' Elsie replied, trying not to panic. She really did love her baby. No doubt about that. Since the first scan actually. She could never forget seeing her baby for the first time, nor could she forget hearing its heartbeat. It was simply magical.Yet it was also...going all so fast. Everyone seemed to expect something of her and Elsie was trying to make everyone happy. It wasn't easy though. This baby hadn't been exactly planned, nor had she planned to meet the dashing and handsome (in his own way) Ned. A friend-well more of an acquaintance- had introduced them (well, it had been more a happy accident) at the Christmas office party. He was actually trying to avoid Alice, consequently bumping into her. A wirlwind romance had ensued and the rest as they say is history...

Not long after, as they were only suggesting they might go on a holiday together for more than a week-end, the unexpected had happened. Elsie had find herself pregnant. Despite assuring him he didn't have to be involved as she certainly didn't want to tie Ned up, especially as they were still learning to get to know each other, Ned had surprised her. He actually didn't run in the opposite direction. He stuck around, making sure she and the baby had everything. Which was more than great as Elsie certainly hadn't expected it. They hadn't been dating for long. She sighed.

'....I read all the...pregnancy books and stuff...' She continued. 'And I went to the...lamaze classes'
'That's great...see, there is nothing to worry about...you'll be fine as long as you stay on bed rest, keep your feet-up and relax'

Keep your feet-up, relax...um, maybe. Elsie wasn't sure. Her work as an executive assistant did keep her busy or she was just a bit...too perfectionnist sometimes, as her mum would always say 'you don't need to make everything perfect, Elsie' Yep, story of my life. Stay in-wait!
'Did-did you say...bed rest?'
'Yes, why? Is there a problem?'
'Er...well, no...but-'
'Mrs Fitzpatrick...that's not negociable. It's bed rest or you going on labor earlier than planned..and personally I'd like to avoid it if I can...so, your boss will have to'
'It's Miss...I'm not married or Elsie, but-'
'No but...I'm not taking the risk...I'm sorry'
'Sorry? You're not the one who has to stay on bed rest...and deal with your...boss' Well, OK, not directly. As Elsie hadn't dealt with him personally. He had his own assistant for that. She was just a small fish in a bigger pond. No doubt he'd never even heard of her anyway. He had many people working under him (no sexual connotation intended), answering to his every whim...twenty four seven...
Nevertheless, Elsie still needed her job. Ned might make enough money for the both of them but Elsie had insisted she wanted to give her share too. No way she was letting Ned pay for everything.
Also why, she kept pushing back her maternity leave date, telling herself, she was mostly sitting at her desk anyway. Yet, it didn't seem enough. Her doctor was insisting she stopped working right now and enjoy the rest of her pregnancy. Barely two months anyway...Oh bugger!
'Fine...' Elsie reluctantly agreed. 'I'll do as you say...but if my boss fires me, that's on you'
Her doctor smiled. 'If you want but I'm sure it won't come to that'
'You certainly haven't met my boss, doc...' Elsie sighed again. Her hand slowly patting her belly. I'll be lucky if I have a job...but hey, at least, I'll have you...

To be continued...:) Take care and see you soon for another article! And of course, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! All the best! ;) xxx

P.s: As you can see...this article has been published in 2018...:) as it took me a little while longer to write it. Anyway, happy new year again! ;-)