Dear Diary, let’s catch up, shall we?
Since I last wrote, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting this Derek guy. The problem is, he’s really nice, and I like him. Of course, this complicates everything where Ellie is concerned because while I would like to throw a plan into place to snatch her away from him, I don’t have the heart. Besides, who am I kidding? I’ve never had a plan in my life.
Chris and Jules really seem happy. Their baby is now a toddler and his name is Oliver. Paisley is really adamant other people not touch “her baby.” Julie thinks Paisley’s protectiveness comes from the fact that for a while, she was in foster care. They are a nice little family and they’re spending all of their spare time looking for their own house.
I’ve lived with Chris all my life, so it’s going to be strange not having him around but hopefully, they won’t live too far away. I’m really happy for them.
Catch up time was shorter than I thought it would be. I think I’ve made you aware of everything else going on.
As I said before, Derek is still dating my Ellie and it was their idea that we should meet them for a night out at a club. I needed a quick date, so I asked Zelda if she would come with me. She has a very understanding girlfriend who knows we’re only friends.
The club, though, was not what either of us expected. I’m not usually on this side of town. I know that sounds really snobbish but I don’t mean it that way. It’s just a fact. I like brightly lit places with loud music to get crazy with on the dance floor. I don’t drink, so that part is important.
Zelda is a nice person but she couldn’t stop her nose from crinkling. “Oh, my… I mean, I don’t know what I expected for a place called ‘La Brume.’ This place needs the entire mop and a dumpster!”
I tried not to laugh when I told her “brume” meant “mist” not “broom” in French.
Derek saw us enter and waved us over from the bar where he was getting drinks. Taking Zelda’s hand, we strolled over.
“I’m sorry, guys, I thought this place would be… busier.”
I smiled easily at Ellie and shrugged. “We’ll still have a good time unless you’d rather go somewhere else?”
Looking over her shoulder at Derek, she turned back and said, “Well, I wouldn’t want to make Derek feel bad. He picked this place and said he comes here a lot.”
A man entered and began playing music at the piano. What a drag.
But Zelda and I smiled at each other and she shrugged.
“We can liven this place up… maybe.”
As the girls spoke about where they got their dresses, I decided to admire Ellie’s. As if I could help it. I hadn’t expected her to wear one so short, but it wasn’t like she was in Winchester anymore. As usual, she was absolutely beautiful, a diamond in a dark cave.
Oh, yeah, Zelda looked good, too.
As Ellie joined Derek at the bar, Zelda and I had a chance to speak privately.
“You’re right, she’s very pretty. But, dude, you have to stop staring at her. She’s going to notice you are gawking soon and not in a good way.”
“I can’t help it. If you knew her, you’d see how amazing she is. She’s so smart – ”
” – I’ve already had the rundown of her stellarness, thanks. Just keep it together.”
“I’m trying.”
“Mmhm.”
I considered myself fortunate to have Zelda as a friend and that she agreed to help me not look so lame tonight. In a way, it was a lucky thing the club was nearly empty because, with her sultry eyes, pouty lips, and killer legs, she was a man magnet. I wanted to spend the evening figuring out how to get with Ellie, not fighting the guys away from Zelda.
“This is a really swanky club, isn’t it?” Derek asked as he and Ellie joined us.
My opinion is that Derek has no idea what swanky means but I was trying to rise above snarkiness, so I said, “Yeah, this place is great.”
Zelda grabbed my hand, pulling me away. “Let’s dance!”
The pianist was a fine player. Unfortunately, it was all slow music.
“Hey! You! Stop staring at Ellie.”
“Ahem. Sorry.”
“You’re doing it again, Holden. Honestly, talk to me or something.”
I sighed, making a conscious effort to focus on Zelda. “Thanks for this.”
“Anything for you. For anyone else? No, I’d rather be at home, in my jammies watching Netflix with Donna.”
“I know. That’s why I appreciate you so much.”
“Dip me, do something fancy to make her wish she was over here in my place.”
Smoothly, I twirled her and then dipped her low, bending so my face was near hers.
Ellie suddenly squealed and jumped back. It seemed Derek-I-Can’t-Dance-Lawrence had smashed her toes. Even though I was worried the clodhopper had seriously hurt her, I smiled inside and twirled Zelda again.
“I hope she’s okay.”
“She’s fine. Girls get used to that, trust me.”
I laughed a little then paled. “Ellie’s looking at us!”
Zelda wasted no time. She grabbed me and yanked me closer to her, snaking her hands around my neck.
“Put your hand on my butt,” she said.
“No! She’ll see!”
“That’s the point,” Zelda grinned, her lips near my ear. “Besides you handle my butt on a daily basis, this is no different.”
“It kinda is.”
She laughed and kissed my cheek.
I’m not sure how we managed it, but we stayed until last call. Huddling outside to chat for a moment before we went our separate ways, Zelda (who does drink) kicked off her strappy high heels and jumped into the fountain.
“C’mon, Zel, it’s time to go.”
“Come in here with me,” she said, splashing icy cold water at me.
I laughed as Ellie and Derek looked on. “You’re going to catch something or die from hypothermia. C’mon, Sweets.”
She took my proffered hand, made her lips extra pouty and stepped out.
“You’re a party pooper,” she complained even though she was grinning.
Once she was out of the water, I put my jacket around her and gave her back her shoes.
“Do you need help with these?” I asked.
She winked at me and said, “No, why don’t you get a cab?”
I shrugged helplessly at Derek and Ellie. “Thanks for inviting us out tonight.”
“We’re glad you could come,” Derek said as we shook hands.
A few days later, Ellie stopped by as I was raking leaves.
“Hi there,” I greeted as I leaned the rake against the bench around the tree. “What brings you by?”
“I’ve been thinking and there’s something I want to talk to you about. Do you have time?”
“Sure. What’s going on?”
Instead of answering me, she said, “Raking leaves is good exercise.”
“I suppose so.”
“I thought you’d have people that do that kind of thing for you?”
“Uh, no. I don’t mind doing it, though.”
“That’s good.”
After a long pause, I finally asked, “What did you want to talk about?”
“I’m a very forthright person normally, but there’s something that’s been bothering me and I wanted to clear the air.”
Her words sent an iron fist to my stomach to beat me from the inside like a boxer does with a speed bag. I couldn’t help but freak out because it sounded like she was going to break up with me and we hadn’t even gone out yet.
“I just don’t know how to start.”
“My grandma would tell you to just start talking and get it out,” I said, almost hoping she would change her mind.
“Yeah, she would say just that.” She shifted her weight from one foot to the other like a little bird. “Okay, well, here it is. When I ran into you the other morning in the city and you found out I’d been here for a few months without letting you know, it felt like you were offended. And I’m sorry about that but I had my reasons.”
“What were your reasons?” My stomach clenched tighter and I held my breath.
“There’s something you need to know about me. I’m going to succeed and I’m going to do it by myself. I like being independent and I like school. Whatever I might accomplish in this life, I want it to be my accomplishment, my success. So, before I contacted you, I wanted to have where I was going to live, work, and go to school figured out.”
“That’s all really commendable, but you thought somehow I’d stop you? Or support you?”
“I know you come from money and lots of it. Not just from your mother’s side of the family but from your father’s side, too.”
It suddenly dawned on me and slowly, I let my breath out. “You thought I’d offer you money left and right.”
She nodded, tears coming to her eyes. All I wanted to do was pull her into my arms and comfort her, but it didn’t take a genius to figure out it wasn’t the time. Not yet.
“I may be able to put your mind at ease,” I told her. “Now, I realize, it’s not every day someone gives you a brownstone in a busy city without a mortgage payment. I lucked out on that because I was born into this family, it’s true. This house was a part of my great-grandfather’s estate and was given to Rosetta, me, and Chris as our inheritance from him. My grandparents obviously haven’t taken anything from the estate and seem happy to stay in Winchester. On my father’s side of the family, I don’t work for them in the family business and I told my parents not to pay my way. So, that means bills, repairs, property taxes, that falls on me and Chris. Rosetta works for The Neptune Foundation and at the Off-White House as Chief of Staff, so, she’s basically made of money. She would pay my share of it all if I asked her, but I, like you, want to depend on myself and make my own way. Oh, and when Chris moves out, Rosetta and I have to buy out his third of the house. And there, you have it.”
“I didn’t know,” she mumbled.
“Well, you know what they say about making assumptions.”
There was the laugh I missed. It had the ability to soothe my nerves and caress my soul. “You’ve got me there.”
“Would you like to come in for coffee or something?”
Now she was smiling from ear to ear. “I have a surprise for you. Go inside and I’ll meet you there.”
“Okay.”
When I got inside, I explained to Rosetta that Ellie was there and had a surprise for me.
“This, I have to see,” she said.
As Ellie entered, my eyes were drawn to a little dog that came click-clacking in beside her.
“Tada!” Ellie said with a grin. “I went to a flea market and this guy was just giving these puppies away. I couldn’t resist but since you said you’d never had a dog of your own, I thought you might like him. If not, I’ll sneak him into my apartment.”
“Oh, dear,” Rosetta moaned, “I don’t even want to know what a flea market is.”
Ellie laughed and I could tell she thought Rosetta was kidding. “Don’t worry, this little guy doesn’t have fleas.”
“Good heavens, you’re not suggesting we take in this mongrel and let him live inside with us.”
“Not at all,” I said as I scooped the little dog up into my arms, “she’s suggesting I do that.” I didn’t hear what Rosetta said after that because I was busy making kissy faces to my new buddy.
“Hey, little boy, do you like the name Murphy? Whaddya think of that?” I found that I could sound quite schmoozy when I talked to him.
“I think Murphy is a great name!” Ellie said.
“I think you two are crazy if you think I’m living here with that thing!”
“Too bad, Sis, I can’t afford for you to move out just yet. Who’s a good boy? Who’s a good boy?”
“You’re just my darling little boy, aren’t you?”
“Well, I can see it makes you happy,” Rosetta said, her nose still scrunched in disgust. “Keep him out of my bedroom. If he pees on anything – ”
” – I’ll clean it up,” I finished for her.
“I know that’s right,” she muttered as she grabbed her purse. “I must go. Please watch him closely, he makes my skin crawl.”
“You make my skin crawl,” I said to her.
She made a fed-up noise as she left.
“Spoken like a true brother,” Ellie said with a laugh.
Things were starting to get back to normal and it felt good. Because of Ellie, I had my own dog now, too.
“Thank you so much,” I told her as I pulled her into my aching arms.
She rested her head on my shoulder for just a moment but it was moments like those that would carry me through until the next.
“Will you go somewhere with me?” I asked her.
“Where?”
“It’s a surprise.”
“I like surprises!”
“I can’t believe you perform on this stage in this huge building!”
I couldn’t help but smile as I looked out across all the floor seats and up into the balcony of the opera house. It was empty except for a few people cleaning and the lighting guys who were going over some things in their booth.
“It’s exciting performing on this stage.”
“And you’ve never brought anyone else to see this except me?”
Shrugging a little, I said, “I guess it was an experience I wanted to keep to myself until now.”
“I’m so pleased you brought me.”
“Look at how many seats there are. I would faint!”
Laughing, I said, “You can’t see the audience real well when you’re up here because they turn the house lights off while we perform. But being up here in front of them, dancing… it’s my favorite thing in all the world. It’s what I was meant to do.”
“I’m so glad for you. Some people go their entire lives and never know their purpose.”
“I suppose.”
“Holden, will you dance for me since we’re here?”
“Oh, umm, I could get you and Derek great seats for our next show, if you want.”
She shook her head. “This is your calling, it’s a big deal. I’ve seen you run and do pilates so that you are in shape to do what you do, but I’ve never seen you dance.”
Giving in, I took her hand and led her into the wings. “You owe me a new pair of pants if they split.” Which was a good possibility.
As she giggled, I warmed up a little bit. I wasn’t in the right clothes and I wasn’t warmed up properly, but I would do the best I could for my Ellie. Taking my place, I began to dance a piece from Star of the Gods, briefly explaining the plot as I went along.
When I finished, she clapped vigorously.
“It’s better with music.”
“Oh, it was wonderful! I can’t wait to see this with the music and costumes!”
She was a girl after my own heart.
When I’d shown her the rest of the opera house, it seemed like something might be bothering her.
“Are you okay, Ellie?”
She appeared to be deep in thought as I gazed at her. She didn’t meet my eyes with her own and one arm was wrapped around her middle.
Gently, I touched her arm. She still didn’t look at me. “What’s wrong?”
“Nothing,” she said, barely above a whisper.
Tenderly, I lifted her chin with the tips of my fingers. “I don’t believe you. Can’t you tell me?”
“I want to but I can’t. Not right now.”
Not wanting to disturb the moment of closeness but also filled with concern, I gingerly rested my forehead against hers.
“You make it so difficult,” she whispered.
“What’s so difficult?”
“Resisting you.”
I brushed my lips across her forehead then kissed her there. “Do you have to?”
Resting her hand on my chest, she must have felt the thumping beat of my heart. A heart that longed only for her.
“Derek is really sweet and kind but… but the truth is, he’s not you.”
My heart leaped at her words and relief coursed through me in euphoric waves. Was this really happening?
As I pulled her closer to me, she touched my lips with her fingers. I wound my fingers into her silky hair and drew her mouth close to mine. I couldn’t keep my emotions in check any longer.
“I don’t want anyone but you, Ellie. Ever.”
She sighed, her lips finally against mine. There was an intense tingling at the touch of her mouth that sent warm waves through me, awakening my desire even more. Little Ellie Duberry from an island called Winchester had given me the most erotic kiss of my life.
Author’s Note: Thank you, Bee, for the beautiful dance poses and for your sim Ellie! You can find Bee’s story HERE and her pose pack site HERE. The ballet poses are HERE.
You may have noticed last week that comments were broken. This happened because of a Jetpack update which they have since fixed. Thank you for your patience. xo You are all truly the best.
I cannot wait to see what you think of this chapter! By the time this is posted, I expect to be at the Farmer’s Market but I’ll get to your comments ASAP!
As always, thank you for reading, commenting and liking,
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I’m so glad you labeled this chapter as “awesome!” ❤️❤️❤️
I feel bad for Derek, too, but hopefully, he’ll move on and find the right person. It does my heart good, that your heart was done good. lol ❤️
I love Murphy! You’re right about Rosetta. hahaha She needs to get over it.
Oh my! What an awesome chapter!
I feel bad for Derek because he’s a nice guy and will be upset over this. I was so happy, though, when Ellie returned Holden’s feelings. 😄 It did my heart so good. ❤️❤️❤️
Murphy is adorable! Talk about love at first sight. Rosetta is just going to have to get over herself. LOL.
I had to giggle when Holden told Ellie she’ll owe him a pair of pants of they split. LOL! That was just way too funny. Looking forward to the next chapter.
I am so happy for Holden but Ellie might not playing with a love triangle.
Thank you 🙂 That’s a good point about Ellie. Don’t worry, she will talk to the guy she’s dating to break up with him.
I was worried a little bit, Holden was so heartbroken by his love interests.
That’s so true!
But as the idiom say : Jamais deux sans trois. (never two without three)
If it’s meant to be, it’ll be 🎶
It looks like Blue was right! Holden and Ellie are a thing.
Derek is a nice kid, but that’s not a good enough reason to stay with him without feelings.
Thank you so much, Violincat. 🙂 I totally agree with you. Hopefully, Derek will understand.
I love Chris and Julie’s family together! I hope they find the home of their dreams!
I’m sure Derek is a perfectly nice guy, just because he’s not so rich and can’t dance, not everybody is born with a finesse for these things.
I don’t know, I do find what Ellie said to be a bit flimsy, and I agree with Jowita that maybe she knew they would rush it if there wasn’t something to stop them.
I hope she feels as confident to be with Holden the next time she talks to Derek! It wouldn’t be right to lead him on.
Thank you so much, Heather. 🙂 I think Chris and Julie have a really nice family. <3 I can’t wait to show you their house.
You’re right about not everyone being born with those things. I think sometimes Holden comes off as a snob. lol
I think Jowita was on to something and that you’re right in that her excuse sounds a bit flimsy. Whatever the case, she was probably right to put the breaks on.
You’re right also that she should speak to Derek right away.
LOL handles her butt on a daily basis .. I was dying! What a great friend Zelda is <3 I hope my wish for ELLHol is not premature!
LOL Thank you, Lisa <3 Zelda is so much fun. I don’t think your wish EllHol is premature at all. 😀
Phew … finally
LOL 😀 😀
Poor Drew
I think he’ll be okay although Ellie did seem to do things in the heat of the moment and out of order. LOL
Oh my lol
LOL 😀
Awww….my wish is going to come true…..she’s going to get to see him perform. ❤️❤️❤️❤️ I loved this chapter and seeing them get over their awkwardness and finally discover they both want the same thing. 😍😍😍
Thank you, Audrey! 🙂 I’m so glad your wish is coming true in this case. <3 <3 And I’m glad you liked the chapter, too. I can’t believe we’re already halfway through Holden’s generation. I’ve been having so much fun writing him. <3
I adore Holden, but you already know that!
I’m so glad you do! <3 <3 I really am.
Oh wow, Ellie in a bar?! This girl keeps on surprising me, but in a good way of course. I like how she seems so open and confident to try new things. Rather different from the Winchester crowd — which I’m happy for, because I wasn’t completely on board with Ellie x Holden at first, she just seemed too young and innocent (compared to Holden) to me. But now I see she is quite the grown up, which is relieving because I still kind of raised my eyebrows at the last line… geez, Holden 😛
I am glad that Derek is nice, we should have trusted Ellie’s judgement haha. YAY for the kiss although the timing is really not ideal, poor Derek… I hope Ellie can break up without hurting him too much.
Awesome chapter <3
Thank you, Lila. 🙂 Yes! Ellie in a bar. lol She is full of surprises, that girl. I think she’s maintained some of her pre-Winchester attitudes since she didn’t move there until she was fourteen.
LOL @ your “geez, Holden.” hahaha He kills me sometimes, too.
I think Derek will be okay. It’s too bad he’s so likable because no one wants to see him get hurt. lol
To be honest, from the title I was afraid Fletcher had shown back up with that line!!! =( I am SO glad it was Ellie! They are soul mates, no doubt about it. ♥ Poor Derek, I don’t think you would be doing him any favors by sicking Zelda on him!! lol I hope he will be understanding, and he will be if what we have seen so far is really his sweet personality. I love that Holden is so romantic, but most artistic types seem to be. You did a great job writing this adorable chapter!! I could just see the steam coming out of Rosetta’s ears!! And of course, the wonderful kiss at the end!! Sigh It has been well worth the wait! =D
Thank you, Marj! 🙂 Ooooh, Fletcher! LOL I’m not ready for him to return. lol I think Holden and Ellie are soul mates, too. LOL at sicking Zelda on Derek. He might not be able to handle that, I get it. LOL I think he’ll be okay, though. I think you’re right that artistic types seem to have a romantic side. That’s how it is with Holden, anyway. Oh, and Rosetta! LOL She might get used to Murphy… or not. haha
I’m glad you thought the kiss was worth the wait. Hopefully, they will live a long life of happiness.
Aaaaaah, finally!!! As soon as I read the title I had a feeling it would come to this, but it couldn’t be more perfect! 💕
I think I’ve said that before, but I feel like Holden has gotten so fed up by the more cynical people he’s met in the big city, that it was only natural he’d get drawn to Ellie’s sweetness. Apart from that, she’s smart and ambitious and ready to abandon Winchester (and not just for him), so it’s the perfect combination!
I really enjoyed reading about Holden’s thoughts in that club! 😁
Awesome chapter, can’t wait to find out what’s next! <3 <3
Thank you so much. 🙂 Yes, I remember you saying that about Holden’s experience in the city and I do believe you are right that Ellie’s sweetness and innocence draws him to her like a moth with light. I like, too, what you said about how she is ready to leave Winchester but for her own reasons because that is so true. I think Holden would feel guilty if she left because of him.
Haha! I’m glad you enjoyed Holden in the club. 😀 <3 <3
SQUEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!
OK now that it’s out of my system… I can’t wait for Ellden to be a thing! Ellhol? Holell? Hollie? That last one is too much of a real name 🤔😕 Spraberry? Dubrague? Ah crap… Of all the times for my ship skillz to ditch me 😭😭😭
Well, whatever we end up calling them, I’m just glad the HS and ED are gonna be a thing now 😁 lol can we call them Desh lol kidding! Sort of…
Thank you, Mags! That squeeeeee is exactly what I did after I wrote this chapter! haha
I knew you would find a name for our pair. 😀 You are so good at that! LOL
I’m so glad they are a thing now, too. Desh!! LOL Why does that seem so fitting? haha
Maybe because it’s short and sweet and uncomplicated, just like Ellie 😁 and Holden to a certain degree.
Glad you like the name 😁 I wasn’t really sold on any of them until Desh lol
LOL 😀
Yessss! Go get her tiger! I’m only sorry we didn’t get to see him admitting to her that Zelda had just gone along with him to make her jealous. I can imagine her finding that hilarious.
Ellie has such a beautiful, unique face. Ugh, I could stare at it for hours!
I feel like Derek is just the nice guy that you settle for. Nothing exciting, but nothing bad, either. No risks. It makes senses that he pales in comparison to our Holden!
Thank you so much! 😀 Oh, that would have been fun, Ellie finding out about why Zelda was even there. haha Maybe she will still find out. 😛
Ellie really is unique, I agree. I think Bee makes such gorgeous sims. She showed me a few different ones before I saw Ellie. She just had that innocent look and beautiful eyes that I thought would match Holden’s personality.
You are absolutely right about Derek. Ellie was settling, yes. That is totally true.
I’m so happy that Holden and Ellie are a thing! Feel a bit bad for Derek though, the guy is so clueless haha
Thank you so much. 🙂 I feel a bit sad for clueless Derek, too. hahaha Somehow, I think he’ll be okay. 😀 I’m so glad you like Holden and Ellie together.
OMG look at that little baby Oliver! He is adorable. 😍 It makes my heart so happy that Chris and Julie have found happiness together.
That scene with Holden and Ellie on stage where he performs gave me such a nostalgic feeling. In high school, I was in drama and performed in the One Act Play competition for three years. My senior year we got alternate to State, and it is one of my fondest memories! I loved acting and being on stage, and his love for performing is one I share.
I love how Holden called her “my Ellie” before anything actually happened between them lol. And while I’m glad they kissed all I could think about was poor, nice Derek and how Ellie should have broken up with him before that kiss with Holden ever happened. But heat of the moment, I guess. 😓
I think Oliver is adorable, too, and I can’t wait to see what he looks like as he grows up! 😀
I love that the stage scene brought back lovely memories. It’s really cool how much you enjoy acting and being on stage. You can really relate then. 🙂 I’m so glad to learn that about you and perhaps in your future, you will enjoy acting again? <3
I’m glad you understood the “my Ellie.” He doesn’t mean it in a possessive way, it’s more of an endearment. I was wondering how that would go over. lol I agree that breaking up with Derek first would have been the correct order of things and more admirable. She just couldn’t resist that darn Holden any longer. hahaha
I’ve thought about maybe auditioning for our community theater, but I just don’t have the time right now. It is something I love to do though so maybe in the future once I’m done having kids. 🙂
And hey, can’t blame the girl for not being able to resist him any longer! Holden has such a wonderful personality, and he isn’t bad to look at either! 😄
Yes, you definitely should but maybe when you’ve had your children, as you said. I was a professional singer and when I had my first child, I tried to continue with vocal training and all that but it became too much. So, I totally get you there.
Ellie was definitely mesmerized. lol 😀
Wow, a professional singer that’s impressive! 😀 I wish I could sing, but my voice is pretty plain. I performed in one musical in theatre and did a decent job, but I’ll never make a career out of it let’s just say that haha. 😅 Do you think you will ever sing professionally again?
I doubt it. It’s no longer a passion for me. But I say if you still enjoy acting, go for it! 😀
Cool. No other words necessary!
YAY! Thank you so much! xo
An amazing chapter, filled with doubts and concerns, with humour and romance and a beautiful scene at the end.
How much I like Holden, I told already, did I ? *lol
Not every heir is equally loveable.
Chris and Jules look so grown up and responsible with their cute kids.
Brother and sister’s argument about the little dog is hilarious, the silly cuddling too.
You should see and hear me, caressing my cats. Big smile.
The stage really is impressing and having such a beautiful dancer dancing only for you is probably melting every heart.
How can she resist, if hers already beats for him ?
Holden and Ellie will make a cute couple.
It will be hard to swallow for Derek, if Ellie breaks up with him.
Maybe some dance lessons with Zelda would help him to get over it.
I’m curious, what next step will be, forward or hesitating back.
Thank you so much. 🙂 I’m so glad you enjoyed this chapter. And I’m glad you like Holden, too. He is different than any character I’ve written and he’s been so much fun for me.
I was hoping the argument about the dog would be funny. In the end, Rosetta had to give in because she wants Holden to be happy. lol BTW, I’m the same way with my cats. 😀
I think Holden’s dancing for Ellie and showing her the stage did melt her heart, you’re right about that.
I think it will be hard for Derek, too, but it must be done. He is an unfortunate casualty of love.
Hey, the dance lessons with Zelda are an awesome idea! I like that a lot and might use that. 😀
Hahaha.. I loved Zelda! She’s hilarious.
While Derek is nice, he’s just not the one for Ellie. That kiss at the end kinda made me need a cold shower! lol
Great chapter!!!
Thank you so much. 🙂 I’m so glad you enjoyed Zelda. 😀 She’s a lot of fun to write.
LOL at that kiss at the end. I think Holden felt the same way as you! 😀
Finally!! Ellie and Holden finally kissed! What a magical moment. The stage was so intimate for their first kiss. Although I don’t think she should’ve kissed Holden while still in a relationship with Derek, I’m oddly glad that she did. Now to just break them up and have Ellie+Holden become official lol
Thank you so much, Raymond. 😀 Yes, they finally kissed! Derek Who? LOL Ellie really does need to take care of that. :O I agree, let’s tie up loose ends and get on with our couple. 😀
Oh! Murphy! That was so sweet of Ellie to get him a dog! Apart from a relationship, that may have been the most meaningful present should could have gotten him.
Thank you! That’s what I thought, too. I mean, why include the previous dog discussion if there is to be no future dog? LOL 😛 Ellie was paying attention. 😀
True!
Weeeeeeeee! That happened fast, but appropriately fast! I dig it. Now, who’s gonna tell Derek?? LOL I need to order more popcorn for that. This one cracked me up: Oh, yeah, Zelda looked good, too. LOL, I’m glad they’re great friends and she was there to coach him on how to get his woman.
Rosetta cracks me all the way up. She’s like a cross between Hyacinth Bucket and the Dowager Countess of Grantham LOL. Her classic line “What is a weekend?” came to mind when Rosetta said she didn’t want know what a flea market was LOL. Murphy, please don’t pee on her walls. I mean, the floor. 😛
Thank you! 🙂 It was fast once it took off, wasn’t it? It’s moments like these that I wish I hadn’t limited myself to 30 chapters per heir. lol
I thought Holden’s line about Zelda looking good, too, as an afterthought was funny, too. I’m glad it cracked you up. If she hadn’t been there guiding him, I shudder to think what he may have done to get his woman. haha
Oh, Rosetta! LOL Yes to being a cross between Hyacinth and the Dowager Countess Grantham! hahahaha To me, that is a perfect combination. I’m dying that you think that because YES! LOL “What is a weekend?” LOLOL Yes, mind the wallpaper, Murphy. haha
Oh no no. Limits are good! Moments like these give you generations like my 8th! It was epic…in all meanings of the word LOL.
Awww man, we would have a total mess on our hands of Zelda wasn’t there! If they hadn’t gotten together so quickly I would have suggested she hire a sitter. 😛
Murphy is going to be a fun addition to the family as long as Rosetta stays lol.
Epic is good! I felt like Mango coming back and healing Leo was kind of epic but I don’t know if I’ll ever have a moment like that again. haha
Hahahaha A sitter. A very strict sitter. lol 😛 Zelda is really too kind when it comes to Holden.
LOL Rosetta better stay. I think this might be a fun aspect, too. 😀
14x chapters were fun, but I’m never doing that again LOL.
Yes, stay, Rosetta!
Yay ! I’m so happy for them ! I’m glad Ellie is so honest . Holden needs that. And showing her the stage felt so intimate .
Thank you so much, CT 🙂 I’m glad you’re happy for them. I think you’re right that Holden needs someone honest and uncomplicated. I was hoping that showing her the stage would feel intimate like that.
I love how sweet and innocent Ellie’s personality has turned out to be. You can tell she was well raised and Winchester had great impact on her, but deep down sweet and innocent is who she was always meant to be. That is what makes her so beautiful. I also love how independent she is as well. I couldn’t wait for this chapter to come out so I could finally say…
EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!
You and I yesterday squealing in delight the day was finally here! Perfect, perfect match. I think their temperaments match perfectly and their children will just be adorable!! I simply can’t wait till next weekend.
Thank you, Bee. 🙂 Holden really digs sweet and innocent. With Ellie, he also gets independent and self-confident, too.
I know! I was so excited! I couldn’t help but squeal in delight that this was happening. 😀 I think their temperaments match, too. 😀
“I don’t want anyone but you” – What a romantic, I want to find a guy that says that! Great chapter and have fun at the market 🙂
Caz x
Thank you so much, Caz. 🙂 Holden is a romantic through and through. I’m so glad you liked the chapter.
The market was great! I really love picking out fresh veggies. 🙂
Aaaah, yesss 😀 Perfect <3 But little Ellie Duberry can’t forget to break up with her boyfriend, now can she! Oh well, it was still perfect and lovely, and Holden actually didn’t do anything too dumb! You can argue that kissing a girl who’s got a boyfriend is a little dumb, but eh… we knew it wouldn’t last anyway 😉
Awesome chapter, Kym. Hope you have a good time at the Farmer’s Market!
Thank you, Louise. 🙂 Yes, there is the Derek thing to take care of. lol I was pleased at how restrained Holden was. If it hadn’t been for Zelda, I’m sure things would have been much different. haha
The Farmer’s Market was really wonderful! We loaded up on so many great veggies. I can’t wait to start cooking. 😀
Holden behaved admirably. Good thing he had a “chaperone” 😛
That sounds wonderful! There’s nothing like cooking with fresh veggies <3
LOLOL Yes, I’m glad he knew his limitations and invited the chaperone 😛 😀
Oh my goodness, Derek is just so stupidly adorable. I really thought he was Holden’s boyfriend at first, though, lol. I think I misunderstood the title, but I get it now. Btw, the honking doesn’t suit him.
Ah, Julie is finally happy. To be honest, I never would have guessed she’d end up with Holden when we were introduced to her.
Zelda is fire! And she’s lesbian too, or bi? Reminds me a bit of Adaeze. She’s into dance and Adaeze was a devoted martial artist. I love her personality and she’s really beautiful, too.
“As usual, she was absolutely beautiful, a diamond in a dark cave.” – Holden talking about Ellie.
“Oh, yeah, Zelda looked good, too.” – Holden about Zelda.
Oh my darling! Don’t get it wrong, but I honestly think Zelda is more beautiful than Ellie. But shh, don’t repeat it to Holden.
So that’s the French reference you were talking about! Cool!
It cracked me up when Holden was staring at Ellie all the freaking time. You must have had such a blast in game watching this.
So that’s why Ellie didn’t contact him? She thought he’d give her money? How silly of her. I think the real reason is because she was so much into him she was afraid of being near him and giving in too easily. But would ya look at that? She eventually did give in! Yay, the kiss! The ship is sailing nicely. Sobs Still not entirely over Julie. By the way, I thought the stage photos were really picturesque.
I’m sorry I’m getting to this so late. I wasn’t feeling very well after we got home yesterday. 🙂
Yes, Zelda is lesbian. Her gf is named Donna. 😀 I can see how similar she is to Adaeze now that you mention it.
Zelda is a beauty, it’s true. She and Ellie are two different kinds of pretty, I think. I love how fiery Zelda is but I don’t think Holden would ever be attracted to her like that because physical beauty isn’t the first thing on his mind. He treats his body like a temple and Zelda drinks, there are differences like that that he really wouldn’t find appealing. What attracted him to Ellie was that she was full of knowledge and not self-conscious. In this chapter, he found out how independent she is, too, which really seals the deal. LOL
Oh my goodness, you’re so right about how much fun this chapter was to do! Even in the game, it’s Ellie for him, so no matter where she was, he wanted to be with her. I had to keep reminding him he was there with Zelda. LOL
I like your idea for the “real” reason Ellie didn’t contact him. You are actually probably right about that. The money did bother her, but I could see her also being afraid of giving in too easily.
I’m sorry about Jules. :'( I really am. And I’m glad you liked the stage pics.
It’s okay, really. Bee got me worried yesterday when I read her FB post about you right before falling asleep. Glad you’re okay!
Oh, good to know I got that right 😀 It often feels like LGBTQ people find their way to the other ones of the community. It’s fun that Zelda and Holden can have such a good relationship without getting involved in anything romantic, just purely professional.
No, I agree that Holden and she are not fit for one another, but I still love Zelda. She seems like a total badass to me! Ellie and she are so different.
I could see how much fun you had there! Oh my!
I think that could be a plausible reason.
I know… Well, Ellie it is. Matt it is (still heart-broken, but at least Dax didn’t die in a fire, lol).
Stage pics are a delight!
I didn’t see Bee’s post. I’ll go find it. 😀
I really like Zelda and Holden’s friendship, too. They don’t have to worry about all that “should I date my friend” stuff. It’s uncomplicated and fun.
Zelda is a badass, for sure! That’s one of the reasons Holden asked her to go with him. He knows he was bound to do something stupid to get Ellie’s attention. hahaha Just think what might’ve happened if she hadn’t been his date that night. LOL
I just ruin everyone’s ships all the time. LOL I do apologize for that. 😀