#BookLife8 - Scratchy

Chapter 1 - Her name was Scratchy

Today was a tough day. I needed someone to talk too, even though I'm not a sharer. I sat on the windowsill looking out as I often did, trying to switch my brain off and stare into the void of nothingness.

I felt something rough brush against my sleeve. "Ouch." Suddenly you appeared outside the window floating looking at me smiling with a silly grin.

Your only words ever spoken to me were.. "Hi I'm Scratchy."

Your eyes stared at me intensely and for absolutely no reason you fell about laughing, it was soo infectious I started giggling too.

You held your paw against the window pane and urged me to do the same as though we were connected.

I did and then you gestered me for to talk as you curled up cosily encouraging me. I couldn't though it was too soon.

So you started pulling funny faces and we both chuckled at the absurdity.

You then held both paws out wide as though you were hugging me, saying It's alright, feel this way or that, it doesn't bother me at all. 

I see you, I accept you and whatever happens food will always be our favourite subject.

I'll purr you later..

 Chapter 2 - Her name was ScrabbleBrain

I headed back to my bedroom window in the morning searching for my new pal Scratchy, she wasn't there and with a heavy heart I sat down to wait.

I closed my eyes tightly trying to wish her into existence and a few seconds later there she was grinning at me, tilting her head to one side.

Tapping her paw to ask where have you been, I've been waiting.

I felt so light just seeing her smiling back at me. "I'm sorry I've been unwell so pretty much resting up."

She looked at me and drew a heart on the window and touched her own and I knew what she was saying.

She feels for me. She cares. I didn't respond. I wanted too but I couldn't.

Any sort of affection, kindness or true friendship was alien to me, it didn't feel right. I was suspicious.

I looked down and bit my lip. How do I respond? She didn't tap but glided her hand along the window drawing an even bigger heart.

I looked up saw it and pressed the side of my body to the window and she did the same.

Our hands found each other and we were connected again.

I began to whisper unsure of who was listening. "I did it you know, I told Mama I need a break."

"She probably thinks I'm being selfish or doing this to hurt her but the truth is....."

"Actually the truth is, my family were the first ones to break my heart and I've never trusted anyone since."

She nodded sadly, broke her paw away from the glass and waved Goodbye.

She turned before disappearing and tapped her paw. 

She was saying Don't be late next time.

She was saying she'll listen again.. 

She was saying I'm not abandoning you..

I took comfort in that and walked off.

Chapter 3 - Her name was No-One

I'm looking out at the peaceful garden and the ripe cherry trees, there is a stillness without any wind blowing rustling the leaves.

I'm staring so hard I don't even see your arrival. I'm taken aback when I see frantic paw waving to get my attention.

I smile apologetically. "Sorry miles away." I ask how she is, she smiles and shrugs nonchalantly as if to say, it's not important, I'm here for you only.

I'm a lil uncomfy with that. I'm not used to opening up but maybe it will get easier. I look down at my hands pausing, How much do I share?

It's almost as if I had to remind myself to be cautious. Knowledge is power to be used against me.

I half smile, well today was a lil better. I did want a lot more sleep. I find when I'm extra ill, as in short and longterm, rest heals me quicker but because I had so much to do, I couldn't relax.

As usual there was a pressure to meet other people's deadlines and ignore my health.

But I did make a pressing call and actually she was understanding about it. I felt a lot of relief, it was weighing on my mind and I expected a nasty attitude.

I snapped my head up suddenly realising I wasn't meeting your eyes and the thought occurred to me, whether or not you were actually listening.

It was as if you saw through me. You nodded and touched the glass again and I did too. You did hear me after all.

I felt relieved enough to carry on. After that went smoothly it spurred me on to do something else and that was it. That was all I could manage because every breath ended in a cough.

Tomorrow is another day and more things will get done, even though the tiredness is draining me as is the heatwave.

I looked at you realising I wanted something back in return, this had to be equal. Almost instantly I could hear your thoughts, it was so powerful I had to hold on to the wall.

You were saying I hear you, 

I understand you,

You're doing well.

Keep going,

I got your back,

I'm proud of you.

I shook my head unsure why I was angry. These were very pretty, very flowery words but I still felt empty as though I hadn't earned them. Earned the right to be praised..

I broke my hand away from yours severing the connection and instead drew a broken heart.

Words can hurt, words can heal but sometimes words aren't enough.

You looked at me sadly, tears were falling but they weren't my tears or sadness. I was devoid of emotion.

You tried again to reach out your paw and offer me friendship, comfort and loyalty but it still didn't feel quite right anymore.

I looked at Scratchy and said "Sometimes no matter how much you want to help, you can't make it better. Thanks anyway."

With that I turned my back and you vanished.

Chapter 4 - Her name was Sneezy

I sheepishly looked out the window but this time you had your back turned to me. "Scratchy um.." I saw your paw angrily stick up, I can see you were hurt.

I sighed. "This would be a lot easier if you talked. I'm not a mindreader. I would actually like to get to know you too."

"Me talking all the time, doesn't make me feel close to you and if we are going to bond, we should do it properly."

You turned slowly, still clearly disturbed wiping a tear away with your paw. "Why didn't you just say so? I'm not a mindreader either."

"I didn't realise you wanted me to open up also. I figured you wanted to be the centre of attention."

I scoffed scornfully. "Was that a dig? You know I'm uncomfortable in the spotlight."

"I just mean you looked troubled and I was happy to listen." I shook my head. "Look Scratchy, yesterday wasn't personal, I keep people at a distance for my own peace of mind."

" You have to be patient until I trust you." Scratchy pondered on this and nodded. "Ok, I will do that but don't shut me out."

"I'll tell you about me then. I was always lurking at the window watching your life unfold, seeing the good times and the bad but you never noticed me, which means you never needed me until now."

"I wanted to comfort and support you all those times you were afraid and alone. I wanted you to turn to me. I wanted us to laugh together but you weren't ready to accept me as part of your life."

"I don't know what's changed but here I am and you can ask me anything."

I was not entirely surprised, I sensed a presence but my main focus was on looking internally and trying to survive.

I couldn't help but return to my suspicious ways. "Why are you here?"

"I sense you don't need but want someone on your side."

I begrudgingly nodded. "I didn't ask for you or look for you but maybe you're right. Today was tough. Everything was taxing and seemed like it would never end."

"The more I do, the more the list grows. However I did it all, postponed my appointment, waited for the backlash, none yet, probably tomorrow but that felt good putting my needs first."

"I want to rush through and finish everything but I realise I have to get better first. There is time. I can't push myself more than I have been."

Scratchy looked at me fiercely. "You may not always like what I have to say but it's said with love. There's nothing wrong with slowing down, being vulnerable, opening up or leaning on someone else for strength."

"I know you hate it but it won't always end up with you being cut to shreds."

I shook my head in disbelief. "How do you know?"

This time Scratchy smiled. "I know because you did it before, a long time ago. This isn't the first time we've met."

"We were close friends but then you sorta disappeared from view. It's as though I couldn't reach you. I decided to stick around so if you ever sought me out, I would still be here for you."

I waved Goodbye and wondered if this was the reason I felt close to her.

Chapter 5 - Her name was Burnout

"Hi Scratchy how was your day? You spent the day chasing your own fluffy tail and frolicking in the garden? That sounds nice.

"Mine wasn't as lighthearted. I thought I was going to have a tense meeting that turned out straightforward and short."

"I thought doing something else was simpler but that turned out to be really hectic. I feel like this fluey thing is trying to wear me down and beat me."

"I like knowing I've done today's tasks but I felt so tired and empty. I got it all done and my body and brain was screaming for a break."

"I realised for once I put my needs above others and not only said Please help with this, but also No I'm not doing anymore today."

"That was huge for me. I just feel obligated to do what I perceive is the right thing and constantly focusing on something important instead of slacking off."

"And to be honest, taking care of myself is too self indulgent for me. I can neglect my needs particularly if there is a lot to do."

Scratchy shook her head sadly. "This is why you're sometimes prickly and unapproachable. You push yourself too hard and snap."

I nodded unable to argue. "My cough does seem worse. I had hoped to slow down, it is the weekend soon but I've more stuff to do tomorrow and for the next couple of months."

Scratchy beckoned me closer. "I think it's time you open the window. Let's hangout properly."

I grimaced. "I'm sorry Scratchy. I'm not ready for that yet, it's too soon and I don't trust you fully. I worry about ulterior motives and letting my guard down."

Scratchy gave me a strange look. "Are you sure?"

I didn't like this confrontational side of her. It was too much. "I have to get going, thanks for your company."

I briefly waved farewell and hurried away. I cannot let her in. I just can't.

Chapter 6 - Her name was Guilty

Scratchy was excitedly jumping up and down on the ledge. I had never seen her like this before. She waved as soon as she saw me.

"Look, look. What's different about me?" She was twirling and laughing and I envied her so much. How nice not to have to worry.

I fake smiled pretending I was in a good mood. She was gleaming as though she just had a makeover. "Umm.. You tinted your fur?"

She laughed and shook her head. "You're so silly. No I got pampered at the pet salon. Shampoo, wash, set, massage."

She leaned in closer, looking left and right. "They even asked if I wanted fake fur extensions. I mean purleaseeee. I'm 100% natural."

My eyes widened in disbelief. "They should know you better than that." She nodded. "How did your day go? Are you feeling any better?"

"I'm trying to hide the truth from you but to be honest. I don't feel any healthier. It was busy and I just wanted to lie down."

"But I did what I set out too and took a chat. I feel guilty about letting people queueing down but after that chat I was done."

"Sorry to those that were waiting, it's not personal and I hate letting you down but I have even less energy now."

"Do you remember the picnics we used to have in the garden with fruits and sandwiches and cakes? We would lay out on a purple rug looking up at sky talking about the future?"

"I'm sorry Scratchy it just doesn't ring a bell." I felt bad all Scratchy wanted to was reconnect and all I wanted was to forget the past.

"Talk soon Scratch." 

Suddenly I had a flashback, it was me and Scratchy, we were making up stories somewhere, drawing, painting and laughing but I didn't recognise where. Am I making this up?

#BlogLife600 - Blogaversary challenge *600th post* BookLife7 - Paloma's Holiday Hijinks

Song of the day - Whitesnake - Here I Go Again

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oohFGOmcxuo

I put way too much pressure on myself to be more and more accomplished and when I don't necessarily achieve that, I get pretty down on myself.

That's why I haven't done much each BlogLife milestone but 600 seems like a big number so I want to make the effort to challenge myself.

The Christmas story isn't ready. It will be a miracle if I can publish it before the year is out so that was not an option for today.

Instead I thought what if I did an on the spot mini BookLife, that I compose tomorrow and publish tomorrow.

All fiction, although there is probably an element of truth in all my stories.

It has to come from somewhere right? I'm only writing this bit and will begin tomorrow's tale when I wake up properly and freefall any subject that springs to mind..

Wish me luck and happy reading :)

Paloma's Holiday Hijinks

"Hi my name's Paloma and as it's Christmas I wanted to share a special story with you."

"My age and looks don't matter because I'm not a Princess, I'm just an ordinary girl!"

"I grew up surrounded by water in a small coastal beach area, simply referred to as Oceana."

"I didn't like it as much being on land, but being in the water splashing and frolicking felt more natural."

"I always remember throwing a tantrum whenever I was lifted out of it."

"Calua, my sister and I were at the beach collecting shells, when it all started."

"I saw it first, give it back to me." I snatched it out of Calua's hand and sprinted away from her grabby sandy fingers.

"You're always stealing from me. My clothes, my snacks and now this."

"Er m-my o-our parents.. She twisted her head and looked at me amused and smugly.

"What rubbish are you spouting now? We both have the same parents!"

Calua's smile widened in that moment a big toothy grin followed.

She chuckled. "Yea, yes that's what you were supposed to think but last night I heard Mama and Papa talking about how they found you abandoned on the beach."

I stepped back in a daze. Dropping the beautiful shiny shell I had just fought over.

I shook my head. "You're lying to get me back because I took the sh-shell from you."

She fumbled around in her pocket. "I knew you wouldn't believe me so I brought proof with me."

My eyes widened and tears were already falling down my plump round cheeks.

Shakily I reached out and took the paper reading the note.

Darling Paloma,

I hope you never have to read this before I can explain myself. Your Papa Tur abandoned us.

We tried so hard to have a baby and began fighting a lot. It was a tough time all around.

I couldn't get myself together, to be the parent you deserved. I knew a family that always picnicked at this time, would find you and care for you, the way I just couldn't.

I will be back for you I promise on December 24th 2023. Wait for me by the beach.

I'm sorry. Don't hate me and be well, live your water-baby life. 

Your loving Mama 

Rocy

XxXx

I dropped the note and ran into the water screaming. I swam and swam, letting the icy water splash and numb me.

After what seemed like eons passed I finally swam back to shore and shivered on the beach, exhausted and raw.

I heard skipping behind me but I was still too out of it to comprehend much of anything.

My parents pulled me up scolding me. "Where have you been? Haven't I told you to stay with your sister??"

I stared up at them blankly, tuning them out. Their scowls no longer affecting me. I was near exhaustion and my legs wanted to collapse.

I closed my eyes and let my legs give way and felt myself carried home by who I thought was my Papa but now I knew different.

The scary thing was that tonight was the 23rd and tomorrow was Christmas Eve.

I rubbed my eyes and blinked to see my surroundings getting clearer and more in focus.

I was back home? I guess, the place where I had lived for most of my life but everything seemed new and scary.

I felt Papa touch my forehead. "Phew you don't have a fever." He hugged me and seemed genuinely concerned.

"What's for dinner?" I croaked the words out and everybody laughed. There was never anything wrong when I had an appetite.

I shivered and Mama put a purple shawl around me. I mumbled a Thank you, feeling too choked up to speak further.

We ate chicken and barley soup in silence or at least that's what I assumed as my thoughts were on sneaking out tonight and not being caught.

I excused myself without having dessert, mumbling that I was too tired.

I saw my parents shoot themselves a worried look but I wanted to be alone with my thoughts.

It struck me that I didn't look like either of my parents and somebody had always made a running joke that I was kidnapped.

But nobody paid attention to that, although sometimes later on when I glanced over at their faces my Mama had seemed particularly disturbed by it.

I climbed on my bed and rested on my knees looking out the window. I saw the lanterns flicking on and heard the waves, which always put me to sleep.

I turned around as I heard a soft knock on the door. Mama stuck her head around the door.

"Are you alright sweetie? You are very quiet today?" I felt guilty but nodded.

She took my hand and led me back to the living room. My eyes widened as I looked up at the tree. 

It was only half decorated as my parents were swamped with work and other responsibilities so tonight we were finishing it off.

I had completely forgotten about it. My eyes went fuzzy from all the neon bright party decorations, it was a sight to behold, with all the walls shiny and festive.

Christmas cards in a wreath on the door. Gold, silver, red and blue ornaments covering the tree.

A gold and silver star at the very top that my sister and I had made together built out of paper and glue and a bottle of sparkling glitter.

Could I really leave all this behind I wondered? I walked to the kitchen to get a glass of apple juice and wiped a tear away.

Time passed and my sister and I yawned in unison. My parents carried us to our separate rooms, kissed us goodnight and swept the hair from our foreheads.

I snuggled in and pretended to sleep but as soon as they each closed the door I perched upright.

I set my alarm for midnight, laid out my favourite red dress with a bow in the middle and a bow for my hair.

My shiny red shoes with a mini bow. Yes I'm obsessed with bows and then fell into a deep sleep.

I sleepily swotted a buzzing fly that would not be quiet and then remembered it was my alarm clock.

I shut it off quickly and got dressed and looked around my room that I probably wouldn't see ever again.

I bit my lip and quietly tiptoed out of my room. I shushed all the squeaky floorboards nervously and made it to the lounge.

My hands were shaking. I quietly grabbed the red glitter pen to write a farewell letter.

Dear family,

I love you all and thank you for helping to raise me but I can't stay any longer.

I need to be with my real parent.

I'll never forget you. Please don't forget me.

Goodbye forever.

Ps don't look for me at the beach.

Paloma

XXXXXXXXXXXXX

Oh and don't punish Calua for telling me...

I wiped my face clean and sternly told myself to be strong and brave.

I stood on tiptoes and unlocked the door and took one last breath, scanning the warm cosy home I once knew and then shut the door behind me shivering.

My teeth were chattering and I smacked my head. In my haste to not wake anyone up. I had forgotten my warm wooly coat.

Oh well, it was too late to go back and get it now. I was halfway there.

Maybe my new Mama would have something. I smacked my mouth. What did I call her?

I was so mixed up. All this was hurting my brain and my heart. I got to the beach safely and it was very quiet.

Nobody was around and I sat huddled bringing my knees up and unclutching the shell and note that had been tightly resting in my palms.

I wondered how long I would have to wait. Would I recognise her? Would she know me? How would I feel? How would she feel?

I swept the sand away from my clothes and hands, wanting to be as smart as possible and make a good impression but I was fading fast.

I couldn't stop yawning. Soon I had curled up and fallen back asleep again, resting my head on my lil hands.

I was abruptly awoken by the sounds of screaming and my name being shouted.

"Palommmmmmmmma Palomaaaaaa. Where are you??" I covered my eyes as the flashlight bore into me.

"Oh thank heavens she's safe." My parents scooped me up and covered me in kisses.

The shell and note had fallen out of my hands and I looked guiltily away as Mama picked it up.

She blinked away the tears, trying to focus and read it. She covered her mouth in an anguished cry and buried her head in Papa's shoulder while handing it to him.

He scanned it and crumbled it angrily. I was put down and I bit my lip.

"Umm are you angry with me? I have to leave you. N-not because I want too. I think it's the right thing to do because I was only loaned to you for a while and now. Umm I have to go back where I belong."

My parents made a gargled sound of frustration and pulled me closer.

I had never seen my parents so upset that they were actually both shedding tears.

"We were worried sick about you and you belong with us." I shook my head.

"Listen darling I know this must be terribly confusing for you but we can explain it."

"First though we are going to get you inside, warmed up and out of this freezing weather before you catch a cold."

I stubbornly folded my arms, while my Papa wrapped me in a blanket and bundled it tightly around me.

I didn't even realise I was shivering. I saw my parents looking at each other, wondering how much they should reveal to me.

I sneezed and broke into their thoughts. Papa picked me up despite my protests and carried me home.

Mama put a warm jumper on me and Papa brought me some hot chocolate to sip on to bring my temperature up.

But I had a few gulps and then petulantly pushed it away.  Papa's voice broke as he said...

"If something had happened to you.. O-our hearts would have broken and never been the same again."

"Promise us you will never try to leave and run away ever again."

Mama's voice interjected this time. "Despite what you think, you are our daughter but the letter has some merit."

My eyes widened as I listened. "Your Papa and I desperately wanted lots of children but the Doctor's said it would be a miracle if we could get pregnant."

"Um do you remember when you were very lil, a woman named Aunty Rocy?"

I shook my head. "Sh-she wasn't really your Aunty, just a close friend of the family and she cooked you in her tummy, from parts of err your Papa and Me."

I scrunched my face in disbelief? "Like an omelette?" They both smiled. "Something like that."

Papa cleared his throat. "See the problem was that Rocy started to think of you as her child and wanted to keep you."

"She became confused and wrote you this letter but you completely are 100% a member of this family."

I thought about this long and hard and thirstily drank the remainder of my hot chocolate.

I stood up ready for bed. "So Aunty Rocy was a microwave that cooked me but you're still my parents and I can still call you Mama and Papa?"

They both shrugged, laughed and nodded. "We'll always be your family and we are incomplete without you."

I hugged them both. "It's been a really long day and I didn't have dessert last night, tomorrow can I have pancakes shaped like Christmas trees with lemon, maple syrup and blueberries please?"

They both gasped at my outrageous request and said "Bed!" In unison.

I walked off turned around and giggled. It was good to be home, where I had a place that almost seemed magical and full of love.

The end

#BookLife8 - I hate my fiancee (fiction) unfinished

Prologue

Her name was Coco but I called her Cuckoo. She wasn't the prettiest woman in the world but she might as well have been.

Try as I might, I couldn't avoid her. She didn't like any of things I did and I certainly had no interest in her quirky hobbies.

This was a fiasco but this marriage of convenience would only last six months to a year and then I could dismantle it and never see her again.

That thought should bring me joy but I wasn't smiling. I had known her since childhood, we didn't travel in the same circles but we were aware of each other.

I was Mr Popular, outgoing and an organiser of many events, where she was a bookworm, completely anti social and should have been a frump with those thick unsightly glasses.

Her hazel eyes however always hypnotised me. I watched her grow from a distance and then put her out of my mind forever.

Then two years ago she returned and we reconnected and started dating. Then got engaged.

We started a business together. Cupid Connections. We vetted each member carefully and did background checks and got endorsed by various companies.

But the harder we worked, the more the relationship suffered until we hit a breaking point both professionally and personally.

Everyone assumed we were married and now to save our business, we had to get hitched and go on a promotional tour.

The only thing I wanted to do was ditch her and date someone else but we had both invested our life savings and I had to be practical.

The new investors (our families, were calling the shots and they would only bail us out on the proviso we give the relationship a proper chance).

Chapter 1

"You're late Cu-Coco." I grimaced. "Call that name once more and see what happens to you."

Fabian smirked. "Always so easy to rile up and totally hot when you're mad."

He reached out to touch my cheek but I swatted it away impatiently.

"Cut it out, let's just order and decide what we are going to do once and for all."

"We both know what happened to us. We took each other for granted and let the romance die. Turned into friends, rather than passionate lovers."

I nodded, unable to disagree. "We have several options." Firstly we could go through with this cockamamie scheme our well meaning but interfering parents have cooked up.

We both shook our heads. "Secondly we could file for bankruptcy, admit we failed and couldn't hack it in the real world, move back home and go into the family businesses."

Our eyes met as we said in unison. "I can't do that." I bit my lip as he said the last choice.

"What if we have a sham marriage, go through with it and make it seem like we are trying to strengthen our relationship but instead date other people?"

I felt queasy. I was over him but the thought of moving on for real seemed scary and I'm not sure I was ready.

"Isn't that misleading everyone? Could you/we really lie to our families?"

"They already warned us about the consequences. They would disinherit and kick us out of the family."

"Look I don't care about the money but I draw the line and not being able to speak to them."

Fabian took my hand. "Firstly drama queen it's not going to come to that. It's just idle threats."

"Secondly nobody will find out, we'll keep it just between us but even if they did realise. Nobody could resist those hazel eyes of yours, trust me I know."

I blushed Fabian could still turn on the charm when he wanted to but it was still a big step and my stomach was in knots.

Chapter 2

"Fine a farce of a marriage it is but you better be discreet with your extra maritals before the world finds out we are playing at happy families!"

"You're not planning on seeing anyone? Not over me yet huh? I don't blame you."

I rolled my eyes and wanted to choke the grin right out of his conceited face.

"Look Romeo I just want to get this catastrophe over and done with and get on with my life as an eligible bachelorette."

"I've had multiple offers during the time we were together and since our breakup but unlike you guys who jump from woman to woman without an emotional break and closure.."

"I just want some time being single and free again. I'll still date occasionally, it just won't be a priority."

"Just stay away from my friends." I grinned. "Don't talk to me, tell them that. Two have already approached me for dates."

Suddenly Fabian looked annoyed and a lot less smug.

Chapter 3

I covered my face that was chortling in utter satisfaction. His arrogance was unattractive but revenge was always delicious and he was a good sport actually.

"Alright on a serious note, we both have to agree not to date each others mates, deal?"

"Uh huh, that's tasteless." I couldn't recall the last time we had hung out like this, being mostly civil and not at each others throats.

"How are we going to do this and make it seem legitimate? You know how closely they'll be watching us for any signs of deception."

Fabian pondered. "Yea you're right, we have to be extra careful, which means a hell of a lot of pda whoop. Let's start practicing now."

"Get away from me. Why did I ever think talking to you was a good idea? All you can think about is sex, sex and more sex. Yeesh!"

"You're such a prude, lighten up, I was half kidding but if we are serious about this arrangement, There has to be some real affection, you can't keep scowling at me."

I sighed he was right unfortunately but the thought of cosying up to him made me queasy. We didn't have a traditional breakup, a lot of things were left unsaid and I didn't want to revisit it.

"Okay but you have to respect my wishes, meaning no pawing at me. Just kisses on the cheek and if we must, some tame hand holding."

Fabian scoffed. "It hardly seems worth it. Then he waggled his eyebrows. "What about your wifely duties?" I rolled my eyes.

"Will you grow up? This is difficult enough. I don't want to spend anymore time with you than is necessary."

"Hah! Don't worry Cuckoo I feel the same way. The sooner we get it over with and separate the better."

I got up having lost my appetite. "Bye Fab." I don't know why I just used his old nickname. Crikey this was already getting to familiar.

I hurried out and jumped on a bus. The less time we spent together the better.

She called me Fab. "My plan seems to be working. Outwardly I was against this marriage but I was the one that had come up with this scheme to win her back, she just didn't know it.

To be continued

#BookLife7 - Fighting Fate (fiction) unfinished

Chapter 1

I sat down on the bench with a book in my hand. I was too preoccupied to read it but in order to stop fidgeting I needed something in my hands.

I wasn't sure if this was a good idea, it seemed a bit ludicrous. I had joined a writing forum two months ago and sparked interest with another creator who related to me.

We had both individually published books that were unsuccessful but thought by talking and meeting today, maybe we could support each other and possibly even collaborate on something exciting.

I had tried this before and it was unsatisfying. My previous ally had no vision and I was pulling all the weight and making all the decisions which is why I terminated it quickly and didn't want to go through it again.

Something about Lautaro's manner though, captured my interest. He was sarcastic, smart, dedicated and more optimistic than I was, I suspect braver too.

He lived locally about half an hour away, which was even more peculiar that we could have met and known each other prior to this meeting.

My phone rang and I searched my bag to locate my it. "Hi.. Yes I'm already here, early for once. Alright I'll head towards the Park entrance."

It was only 5pm in the afternoon with plenty of light out but I still felt nervous. I was grateful that a lot of people were around, albeit scattered here and there.

It didn't take me long to reach the front and I bit my lip wondering if he would be the same person offline..

I felt a hand on my shoulder and I whipped around panicking. "Gianella is that you?"

"Lautaro?" "Yes." We each said it at the same time and smiled awkwardly.

"I've never been to this park before but it is quite spacious and lovely."

He nodded. "Yes I find myself here quite often, taking in the tranquility and being inspired to write little thoughts and poems."

"We can come here together next time, if you like." I raised my eyebrow at his bluntness.

"Look let's just get through today first, see if you're the gentlemanly type, before I commit to another outing."

"Wow Gia you are so sceptical but whatever you feel comfortable with, I just know that, this won't be our only time together."

I remained on the fence and shrugged. He maybe determined but I would patiently see how he behaved first.

Chapter 2

"What are you reading?" He indicated to the book in my hands and my face coloured. "It's ummm.."

"Mmm...Go on." I half laughed. "Just one of those manuals on how to write a book."

Lautaro smacked his forehead. "You don't need that. I've read your work remember. It's excellent, just raw and in need of polishing."

"Don't let these jaded authors corrupt your confidence and enthusiasm. I'm happy to give you pointers."

I scrunched my nose up. "Are you forgetting we are both in the same boat?" 

"There is very little interest and feedback from our collective works and those that were somewhat keen, wanted so much editing that in the end it wasn't the same."

He held his hands up and shrugged. "It just means they were not the right fit. A publisher has to believe in you and your vision, it's not all about the profits."

"Yea right." We both chuckled. "Why don't we continue this discussion in that coffee shop over there. A lot of struggling writers frequent it."

"Okay." He held the door open and my nostrils were hit with the delicious smell of fresh coffee. 

I sat down in the corner into a soft cushioned blue chair that was very comfortable. The large square tables were a few feet apart.

It wasn't squashed at all. "I've never had such a beautiful partner to collaborate with before."

I rolled my eyes. "Stop right there. This is strictly business. Our acquaintanceship is not going to get complicated, at all."

His smile grew wider as he leaned forward, holding my gaze. "Gia I have every intention of keeping this platonic."

"However writing can be an intimate event and who knows what passions may rise to the surface during our partnership. Shouldn't we remain.... Open to the possibilities?"

I shook my head. "No! I like to keep focused and I don't have room for time wasters!"

He leaned back but didn't shake the grin from his face. "Whatever keeps you near me and smiling, is fine with me."

"Ugh! Can we just order already before I throttle you?!" His eyes twinkled mysteriously.

"I seem to stir you already, this is a good sign, it means we are a good match."

I put my face in my hands sighing and was relieved the waiter had come to take our order.

"Hi can I get a whipped chocolate coffee please and a cinnamon muffin thanks."

"I'll take an espresso and a ginger cookie thanks. It's normally quite busy in here."

I nodded and turned away. This was obviously an error in judgement, he justed wanted to flirt and mess around. I will make an excuse and leave in a few minutes.

He rustled in his bag and brought out a notebook. "I know what you're thinking Gia but I'm serious about working with you."

"In fact I set us a challenge to write a short story in a week and then submit it to Aaron's Publishing House."

"A meeting has been arranged." The waiter set down our order with napkins and a smile and I whipped my head around to Lautaro.

I scoffed. "This is a sick joke right? How do you even know a publisher, let along have an appointment set?"

"My friend hooked us up. You should be excited, this could be our big break."

I stood up and turned my back to leave. This was too much. He had to be lying.

He handed me a card with Aaron business details on it. "Ring it up and confirm it, the appointment is in your name."

"How do I know that you haven't just coerced someone into a pretence?" He googled the address and the number and unfortunately it checked out.

I dialled and spoke to a receptionist who confirmed it. I slumped back in the chair.

"What have you gotten me into?" He covered my hand in his and squeezed it.

"We can do this. It's easy. There is just one tiny hiccup.... I'm going on a business trip tomorrow for a week, which means you have to come with me in order to get this done on time."

Chapter 3

My jaw hit the floor. "There is just bombshell after bombshell with you, isn't there??"

"Do I look like a rookie to you? What makes you think I would just be careless and take off with a complete stranger?" 

Lautaro raised his eyebrows trying to look like a boy scout. I wasn't buying it.

"Nothing about you screams foolish at all. I just think this would be an adventure and would get the creative juices flowing."

"There will be separate rooms in the same hotel and not adjoining either. I won't do anything to ruin this trip and our budding friendship."

He pulled out the printed booking details and everything he said was confirmed but I still felt uneasy. I wasn't a spontaneous person at all.

However maybe my writing had become stale and I needed a jump start.

I sighed looking wearily at him. "I just want to be crystal clear. I have no intention of becoming romantically involved with you. Emotionally, physically or anything in between."

"We are just collaborating to benefit each other. This eventually may become a friendship once I know that you can be trusted and are not sleazy."

He wiped his forehead in relief. "I'm glad you are willing to give it a go, you won't regret it. All I ask is that you have an open mind."

I nodded still unsure if I was doing the right thing. We stood up having cleared our plates. He excused himself to pay the bill and I looked at the door wondering if I should escape..

I had never been to Cardiff or Wales before and I googled the touristy hotspots. There was a castle, a waterfall, a national park. I just loved waterfalls..

This might not be so bad after all. I was not a shutterbug but I could see myself taking snaps to inspire the story along and maybe using one or more as the cover or to title chapters.

I slowly began to smile just as Lautaro walked back. "I just need your address to pick you up tomorrow. We have to leave quite early I'm afraid around 6am as it's a 4 hour car ride..

"Oh I have so much to do and there is no way I'm giving you my address. You can pick me up at the local station where I feel comfortable."

He sighed. "As you wish but it would have been easier if I carried your bags and you got treated like a pampered passenger."

I folded my arms and he laughed. "Alright I give up, you call the shots. Just please try to be on time and I'll see you bright and early tomorrow."

"It's going to be so much fun, you'll see and maybe once you relax you'll even see me in a new light.." I smiled as reassuringly as I dared but inside I was a mess.

We parted company and I started making a mental list of what I needed to do and on top of all that I had to wield a fanciful tale to enchant the new publisher. Ugh I was overwhelmed.

Chapter 4

I got in locked the door and began to pace back and forth. What on earth had I just agreed too?

Had I lost my common sense? Some of the excitement was being taken over by fear.

I would be trapped in a car with a total stranger and what if he was..... I shuddered at the thought of him being possibly inappropriate and me not having an exit.

However I had made a commitment to him and just because I was apprehensive I would not chicken out.

I would be sure to pack my spritz that would double as mace and I would not be wearing a skirt or dress in the car, just to be safe.

I packed a mixture of casual and smart summer and winter gear, dresses, some skirts, trousers and short/long sleeved blouses.

I wasn't really a fan of shorts because they always rode up when I was seated.

At last my leather black and white polka dot suitcase was filled and I placed it near the door.

The taxi had been booked for tomorrow morning as I didn't fancy lugging the bags on the jostling bus.

The sun was piercing through my slumbering eyelids, how had it become morning so soon? I had only just closed my eyes.

Or at least it felt like that. I squinted and looked at the timer on my phone.

The alarm had been buzzing for quite a while. I wasn't running late but I should get ready.

I looked at the stand alone full length mirror in the corner of the room.

I just had my eyebrows done recently and yet needed to pluck a lil to be as flawless as possible.

I had creases under my eyes where my bags made me look like I hadn't slept.

I turned from side to side and grabbed the scissors. I was tired of playing it safe.

I wanted to be edgy and unpredictable. I angled the scissors and snipped downwards.

Then I cut 4 inches off the ends of my hair until it sat just below my shoulders.

I repeated the same motion with the side wisps and soon it was all manner of layers.

I tossed the ends in the trash and combed through the length of my hair.

I wondered if I would be able to wash and go now? I shook my head and felt doubtful.

Chapter 5

I walked to the bathroom and tweezed the few hairs that were noticeable and then I tapped my speaker to fill the space with music.

I always felt sluggish in the mornings so I used music to perk me up.

As a random mixture of tunes flickered on my phone. On my way by Illijah popped up and I immediately smiled and relaxed.

A quick shower followed by an even swifter blow dry with a leave in conditioner spritz was all I needed to get ready.

Well maybe just a dab or two of foundation, a sweep of eyeshadow, a mild slice of eyeliner, one coat of hazel tinted mascara and some mauve lipstick.

My phone beeped and up popped a message from Lautaro. "Don't keep me waiting."

I rolled my eyes and combed through my unruly strands, it hadn't turned out too badly.

Hmm now what shall I wear for Mr Impatient?? I glided my hands through the unorganised rack of clothes that I couldn't be bothered to sort through and bit my lip in confusion.

But then my eyes narrowed on this red and white slash neck new top that I hadn't worn before.

It would pair perfectly with the plain white silky trousers that I rarely wore.

I will just slip on my thick woolly men socks that protected my dainty tootsies and follow that with my violet hiking boots.

One last check in the mirror to make sure I didn't have lipstick on my teeth and then I will grab a quick bite.

I toasted a wholemeal bagel and slapped some sweet chilli dip, unsmoked salmon and cod chunks inside and licked my lips gleefully.

Simple yet delicious. While I munched I booked the Uber and in 10-15 minutes I would be face to face with him.

I washed the dishes and moisturised my hands, then I doused a lil perfume on my neck and wrists and reapplied my lippy.

I had never travelled alone with a man before and soon I would be spending an entire week with one.

The car horn tooting broke into my thoughts, I locked up, handed the bags over to the driver and waited for him to hold the door open for me.

I confirmed the destination and tried to look settled and confident.

I stepped out from the drive quicker than I would have liked and paced along the station with my phone in my hand.

Chapter 6

"You beat me to it, well this is a nice surprise." Before I could dissuade him, Lautaro carried all my luggage to the back of his car and gently placed them in the boot.

He opened the front door and I slid inside, popping my gold and red tinted sunglasses on.

I popped in two orange tic tac mints in my mouth and cracked the window open slightly, not caring if my hair got messed up.

I hoped I wouldn't get car sick but I would try to keep from getting agitated either with the radio or possibly some banter.

"All set? Not forgotten anything? Well it's too late anyway." I tugged the seatbelt but it wouldn't budge but with one hard yank, it obeyed him and our eyes met as he secured me in place.

I quickly looked away and out the window. "I'll put the music on later, for now I think we should get to know each other."

My hand snapped away from the tuner and I flushed as though I had touched something I wasn't supposed too.

"What was your ex like?" I sharply turned to face him. "How is that any of your business? What makes you think I'm not involved with someone presently?"

His lips formed a slow smile as he turned to face me. "No man in their right mind would allow you to travel with a stranger, all alone."

Irritation flooded my face. I tilted his chin towards me. "Hear me plainly. Nobody owns me, I do as I please and my relationship status has nothing to do with this trip or you."

"All business remember? That was the deal!" His face broadened into an even wider grin.

"I'm just laying the foundation, we have to know each other a lil bit, our strengths and weaknesses, to be successful."

"Although on our downtime.....Who knows.."

I grunted in frustration. "During our various breaks, you can do as you please but I'll be savouring the time away from you."

He laughed. "I'm really not that bad and a beautiful woman, should never be alone in new area, I may need to protect you."

Ha! I scoffed. "You assume I am some weak and feeble woman? I've taken precautions, a few self-defence classes, personal alarms and pepper spray."

"Bravo but humour me, we need to experience things together so that the writing flows better."

I closed my eyes. I hated that he was probably right. I just wasn't going to agree.

Chapter 7

I needed to settle down, all this teasing he was doing was giving him all the power and he relished making me squirm.

I let my eyes close and if I slept so be it. I needed a break from being constantly agitated.

He had no idea what it was like for a woman, to be constantly on her guard.

To not say anything open to interpretation so that the wrong message was conveyed.

It was exhausting and I wanted to be straight forward because my past relationships had made me suffer.

I wasn't willing or ready to jump into a new one. I still felt shaky from all the emotional haranguing I was put through.

I just felt better concentrating on work, that was my sole focus at present, not fighting off some gigolo.

On the surface he seemed fine but I knew better than to trust my initial perceptions.

They had let me down so many times before, still I had to look on the bright side, a complimentary getaway, a beautiful change of scenery and possibly adequate company, eventually, when he settled down.

That was my last thought, the anxiety had worn me out. I drowsily turned my face towards the window and slept deeply.

To be continued..