"People On A String"

Αντε. Με πεισατε. Σας δινω λιγο λιγο, γιατι ειμαι η βασιλισσα του σταγονομετρου , το φικ μου "People On A String".

Τα πρωτα λιγα κεφαλαια τα ειχα ανεβασει στο fanfiction.net το 2007. Σας κανω αντιγραφη/επικολληση ακριβως τι ειχα αναρτησει εκει. Απο κει και υστερα... βλεπουμε...

Αν μητι αλλο, θα εξασκησετε τα αγγλικα σας. Δεν ειμαι ομως και τελεια στη γλωσσα, μην σας παρω στο κεφαλι μου.

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Introduction

My story is set after the end of the Candy-Candy animated series, but plot-wise it takes elements from both the anime and the manga. Basically, I mix the manga and anime's endings a bit and weave them into my idea of events. I have no beta-reader and English is my second language, so any mistakes are mine and please let me know about them.

Warning number 1: I have to let Terry-fans know that your most beloved boy appears in just one chapter of this story. Other than that, he's just mentioned occasionally, with all due respect. Candy has moved on with her life and there's an original character that plays a crucial role.

Warning number 2: There will be some mature themes. Nothing too explicit, but never the less mature.

Disclaimer: All characters belong to Kyoko Mizuki, except Doctor Paul Matheson whom Iʼve made up myself.

All poem verses that will occasionally appear in the beginning of various chapters are from the song “People On A String” by Roberta Flack thatʼs featured in the original soundtrack of the film “White Nights”.

Finally, something I need to make clear, just to avoid any misunderstandings: The plot of my story has been in my head for more than a year and I know very well where it's going and how it's going to end. If some elements seem similar with other fanfic stories, that is a pure coincidence.

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και ελεγα πως θα φρεσκαρω τα αγγλικα μου!!!!!!

γιουπιιιιι!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! σε καταφεραμεεεεεε!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Chapter 1

Candy turned off the light, trotted towards her bed and lay down with a content sigh. A smile crossed her face. She was happy. Still surprised, a bit tired, a bit overwhelmed, but happy.

And how could she not be? In a matter of six days, she had lived through the most surprising events of her life. She was taken before Grand Aunt Elroy and the Rangans and told she were to marry Neil under Great Uncle William's personal orders. That was unacceptable! She protested, refused, yelled, but the trap had been set. It'd left her no choice than to desperately seek Great Uncle William himself to clear things up. With George's help, she'd finally found him in Lakewood... and all the clouds that had ominously gathered over her sky were scattered away.

Albert was Great Uncle William. Her Albert. The bearded vagabond who had saved her life, the sweet friend who had given her comfort when she'd lost Anthony, the strong and carefree worker at the Zoo who laughed with her and her friends. And then the mysterious patient with his memory lost, alone and desperate, the man she had urgently ran after with tears in her eyes, the one she considered like a brother, vowed to take care of and love with all her heart, lived with under the same roof until he silently left... Her Albert... was Great Uncle William.

Oh, and her Prince of the Hill.

Her smile turned into a huge grin. It all made sense. It all made such a wonderful sense at last... Albert again was the boy she had met when she was six years old, dressed with his Scottish uniform, playing the bagpipes and dropping his brooch for her to find and treasure. And Anthony looked like him, her Prince, because he was his nephew, his sister's son. "I remember a boy always by my mother's side", Anthony had told her.

Oh yes... Albert was that boy. The only direct heir of the great Ardlay name and fortune, forced to hide under the shadow of the "Great Uncle William" until he was old enough to take over.

And yet... Candy still found it difficult to believe. She had tried to pretend to speak to "Great Uncle William", finally reciting the speeches she had prepared for for such a long time, but Albert's so familiar face, laugh and blush at her words had made her give up for good. No matter what, he was her Albert, nothing was different between them.

Mrs.Pony and Sister Mary were so happy for her. All her friends, all her family had gathered at one big party in Pony's Home. They ate, drank, laughed, sang and danced till late nightfall. Well, late nightfall for Albert, Tom and herself. Long after the children had gone to bed and Annie and Archie had left, the three of them kept telling tales and laughing to tears.

"B..Βut, Aunt Elroy, this man c..cannot be Uncle William! H..He was staying with Candy c..claiming to have a..amnesia... he's a t..tramp!" Albert mimicked Neil's panicked, stuttering voice.

Candy had laughed her eyes out. She sooo wished she had been there to see Neil's pathetic face and excuses when Albert had gone to clear things up! But she had already left for Pony's Home, after having spent a most wonderful day with Albert in Lakewood.

And now... now she was back in Chicago, in her apartment. Tomorrow she'd start working with Dr.Martin again. She wanted to stay in Pony's Home, but Mrs.Pony and Sister Mary had insisted that they could still handle things on their own.

"We are still doing great, while Dr.Martin has lots of poor patients to look after with no other help. He needs you more than we do, my child", Mrs.Pone had told her.

So... there she was again. But happy now. Happy as she'd almost never been before.

Two days afterwards, to Candy's surprise, Great Aunt Elroy asked to meet her. Her driver picked her up from the "Happy Clinic" and brought her to the Ardlay mansion in Chicago. Candy didn't know what to expect from this and her nervousness grew when she was told that "Mr. Ardlay", Albert, was out on business. She was to see Elroy alone.

After all these years... and even after Albert's revelation... I still kind of dread this woman... Candy thought to herself and chuckled.

"Come in, Candy," Aunt Elroy commanded in her usual strict voice. Candy obeyed and took some deep breaths while a servant served them tea.

"First things first," Elroy began. "I have to give you credit and thank you for taking care of William when he was... lost to us. He told me what you did for him and... although it's not lady-like to live with a man you are not related or married to, in this case it proved most helpful."

Candy had to blink several times. Aunt Elroy was thanking her?? That was a first!

"I did what I did to help a dear friend. Albert was so distraught those days, it was the least I could do in return for all the things he had done for me."

"Yes...", Elroy trailed, her eyes narrowing. She noticed how Candy called him 'Albert', not William. "And now you know the truth... Who he really is and what he's taking over..."

"Yes...". Candy was not sure where this discussion was heading.

Elroy took a deep breath, sat fully back in her chair and looked at Candy straight in the eyes.

"I'm not going to dance around the issue, Candy, I'll be straight up and forward. Now that William is two days away from his first public general appearance this Saturday evening, I have to make sure that his image is spotless. The people and the media will go wild, digging into every record of his life, every detail, every event and decision... One of those decisions was your adoption years ago. If he had asked my opinion, I would have been firmly against it, but he had presented me with the papers already made and signed."

Candy bit her lip and waited for Aunt Elroy to take a sip of her tea and continue.

"Now, it wasn't long ago when you told me that you wished to have your adoption annulled, but that was never brought up again. Well, I am bringing it up now. Do you still have this wish?"

"Huh?..." Candy was taken aback. This was the last thing she expected to hear from Aunt Elroy. She stared at her with her mouth open, unable to think.

"Candy," Aunt Elroy said, her voice losing some of its strict tone, "I need you to listen to what I have to say... very carefully. It will affect your future, William's future and the best interests of all..."

One hour later, Candy was on her way back to the "Happy Clinic" deep in thought. And she didn't stop thinking until very, very late at night...

The following morning, a clerk from the Ardlays came and left her an envelope and a large box. The envelope contained the official invitation to the grand gala in the Ardlay mansion, the gathering that would introduce Albert to all Chicago. The box had a beautiful evening dress with matching shoes and a purse.

Candy smiled ruefully. "I'm so sorry, Albert..."

************

Συνεχιζεται.....

Kαι ανοιγω ξεχωριστο θρεντ σχολιων.

Chapter 2


Albert took a long sip of his morning coffee, let out a deep breath and turned his gaze to the Sunday's papers. To read, or not to read... No use delaying the unavoidable... he thought and grabbed and opened the first newspaper on the pile. Just as he'd expected, the editors had worked all night long so that the last evening's gala was featured in full glamor on the front page.

"CHICAGO'S EVENT OF THE YEAR! Mr. William A. Ardlay in full light!" the headline wrote.

Albert felt like hitting his head on the table. He hated big words, pompous speeches and flattering remarks. He had tried his best to be polite, pleasant and humble during the gala, when all he wanted to do was leave as soon as possible. It wasn't that he didn't enjoy positive comments, he did, but from one point on he felt tired of them.

After all, those people did not know him, not the real him. They were seeing the "wealthy, charming, handsome, mysterious" William A. Ardlay. They had no idea who he was.

William A. Ardlay... 'A.' for his middle name, 'Albert'.

I'm an initial, he thought and gave a small laugh.

The event would have been easier for him if one person had been there. Candy. He had counted on her presence, knowing that when things would turn uncomfortable for him, he would take one look at her grinning face and feel all right again. However, to his great disappointment, the car that was supposed to fetch Candy had come back empty, with only a note of apology.

"My dear Albert,

I'm really sorry, but something has come up and I'm afraid I cannot come to your party. It's not health related, don't worry, I'm perfectly fine. I'm sending you my best wishes for you début, don't be nervous, you'll do great. I'll be thinking of you!

Love,

Candy."

He had no idea why Candy had not come. And unfortunately he didn't have the time to find out right away. He was invited to one club and two parties this Sunday and from Monday on it was business week. He'd be lucky if he'd have at least the following Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday off.

I'll miss you, my Candy... I already do...

x x x

Fortunately for Albert, Friday proved an easy day. By four o'clock in the evening he had read every contract, signed every document, given every instruction, dismissed all personnel and was free to go. Free to go surprise Candy who he'd missed so much.

When Candy opened the door of her apartment late in the afternoon, her eyes opened wide. There was a huge bouquet of beautiful flowers on the living room table, together with two kinds of pie, a cake and two empty cups of tea.

"Albert?!" she called out, for she could think of no other.

"Over here!" his voice promptly came from the kitchen

"Oh, I can't believe you're here, it's so good to see ... you... " she ran to the kitchen talking, but stopped dead on her tracks when she saw Albert turning to face her from the stove.

"And I've been looking forward to this all week long!" he grinned. "What's wrong?" he asked at her gaping expression.

"Your hair...", Candy trailed, for he looked completely different. Gone were his longish locks, replaced by a formal shorter cut, smoothed down with brilliantine. It made him look older, sophisticated, aristocratic.

"Oh, that!", he said, raising one hand to touch his neck briefly. "It was either me having a proper haircut or Aunt Elroy having a heart attack. Hair can grow back. She claimed she would not survive."

Candy continued to stare at him.

"I know it looks ridiculous, but this is the 'business look'. I didn't have time to wash the brilliantine off before coming here."

"N.. no, it doesn't look ridiculous, just... very..."

"..Not me, I know! I avoid mirrors myself when I can."

Candy had to laugh at his adorable pout and opened her arms to hug him.

"Honestly, it's not that bad, not bad at all. I just have to get used to it," she said and trailed her fingers lightly down the side of his head.

"Good, one thing settled. Tea?", he said picking up the steaming pot.

"Love to!"

"The pies and cake are Mrs. Ellison's, the best cook ever, I grew up watching her."

"Great, 'cause I'm starving!"

x x

After a joyful chat, two plates of food and in the middle of their second cup of tea, Albert couldn't wait anymore. He had to finally ask her the thing that had troubled him all week long.

"So... miss Great Nurse..." he teased her with the way a patient had been calling her recently, "why didn't you come to the party last Saturday and left me all alone with the monsters?" he asked softly.

Candy took a deep breath. She knew this was coming and it would not be easy.

"Albert... I've been thinking hard and pretty long about this... and it's time for me to finally tell you," she began carefully.

"Tell me what?"

Candy bit her lip and looked into his questioning eyes. "You do remember that I had once sent you... well, sent Great Uncle William a letter telling him that I wanted my adoption to be annulled... and I had spoken to Aunt Elroy about it too."

"Yes... long ago", Albert answered. "But that was before you knew who your Uncle William really was," he added with a playful wink.

Candy couldn't help but grin at that. Indeed learning that Albert was the mysterious Great Uncle William had changed many things. But other things remained the same.

"Yes, that's true... but... I haven't changed my mind, Albert. On the contrary, I'm now determined even more." She looked at him, knowing that it would affect him.

Albert's smile faded, just as she had expected it would.

"Why?", he asked confused. "I mean, now that I'm out in the open, everything is much easier for you, Candy. And for me. I can take care of you freely."

Candy smiled at his passionate undertone. "Because I'm your adopted daughter..." she pointed.

"Yes!"

Candy moved so that she sat facing him straight on. "Albert..." she said strongly, "your are how many years older than me, ten?

"Nine."

"Nine," she corrected herself. "And you are supposed to be my step-father. Father, daughter nine years apart?"

Albert gave a small laugh. "That's just in the papers. The point is that you are a member of the Ardlay family."

"Yes... but in those papers... I am supposed to inherit whom? Whose heiress am I?" she asked seriously, looking straight into his gray-blue eyes.

Albert's mouth opened as if to answer her, but he stopped. He stood still for a moment and then slowly looked away.

"I'm yours, aren't I?", Candy confirmed. "As a direct one."

Albert kept looking down. He seemed lost in some thought or memory, his face clouded.

"How will Chicago's society take this," Candy continued, "or the press?".

Albert reacted to that. "Oh come on, Candy... Gossip will be gossip." His voice had a hint of irritation.

"All right then." She took the other approach. "What about your true heirs? Your children? You will marry and have a family one day. Where will they stand in all this?"

"They will respect my decisions!" Albert exclaimed.

Candy hid a smile. She had almost seen a trace of Aunt Elroy in Albert's outburst. "No, Albert... it won't be as easy as that. And you know it."

Indeed he knew. She could see it in his eyes. He shook his head and looked away again, clearly lost for words.

Candy placed her hand on his, earning his attention. "You were there for me when I was a child, alone and vulnerable. You gave me things I couldn't even dream of! And I will always, always be grateful for that!" she said with passion. "But now I've grown up. I've chosen my path and stood on my own two feet. As you have too! It's time for me to move on without the Ardlay name... and you to honor it with pride."

Albert searched her green eyes. "Has Aunt Elroy put you up to this again?" he asked after a few moments.

"No... It was something I always wanted. I would have asked Great Uncle William again that day when I was ordered to marry Neil, but..." Candy shrugged, "...seeing you, it slipped my mind."

That was half the truth of course. The other half was that Aunt Elroy had indeed talked to her that time at the mansion before the gala.

"William has a lot to prove to the Ardlay family, to Chicago's society, to our country and to many partners abroad, Candy. He is finally taking over everything as main heir, owner and director of businesses across the world. That is a tremendous responsibility. Too many people and things depend on him. He's under close watch and the fact that he's still young, not even in his thirties yet, immediately scrutinizes him even more. I don't want him, and I'm sure you don't want him either, to face cruel early remarks about a decision of his youth to adopt an orphan 12-year-old girl, when he was barely twenty one himself. Not to mention that appearing in public with that girl, who is now a lady old enough to marry, will cause tremendous gossip,"Aunt Elroy had said. But Candy would never tell Albert about that meeting. She was sure that Albert would be upset, even angry at his aunt.

Albert nodded and half smiled. "Well, I cannot say that I don't understand you, Candy. The Ardlay name is both a blessing and a burden." He tenderly brushed a stray curl off her cheek. "Can't I talk you out of it?"

"No, Albert... please."

A thought passed his mind. "Is that why you didn't come last Saturday?"

Candy nodded. "I thought that if I am to be out of the Ardlay family, I shouldn't appear in public by your side, especially in your first big event. It would create all sorts of issues that would be hard to explain afterwards."

Albert kept regarding her with an undefinable look on his face. He then took a deep breath and seemed to have come to a decision.

"All right... If this is your wish, then... I will respect it."

"Thank you, Albert," Candy smiled and moved to hug him.

Facing opposite and holding him though, she missed seeing him sadly closing his eyes.

x x x

Συνεχιζεται....

Chapter 3


Two days later in his office, Albert sighed. He couldn't postpone it anymore. He had to do it. He stood up and slowly walked towards the file cabinet. After a few minutes of search, he took out a folder, walked back to his desk and opened it.

Candy's adoption papers were looking straight at him.

Knowing what he had to do, he swallowed hard.

A few days later, another set of papers were looking at him. The annulment papers.

"... Candy White Ardlay is excluded from the Ardlay family, there by only to be known as Candy White." Strict, legalese language.

My God... I cannot sign this...

But he had to. It was her wish. And even though he hated it, he understood it. He understood it more than he dared to admit.

He took a deep breath, clenched his jaw and signed quickly. A numbness started to envelope him. And then a terrible urge to rip that paper into thousands of pieces.

But he did not.

Instead his mind started working on another document. A document that he began writing later that same night. A document that would ensure the welfare of his precious Candy no matter what happened to him.

x x x

"Oh, look who's here, look who's here!!"

"Hello, Dr.Martin," Albert greeted his former doctor and got out of his car.

Dr.Martin gave his characteristic heartily laugh. "You look great, my lad!" he said and shook Albert's offered hand, giving his shoulder a firm pat as well.

"Thank you, you too!"

"Naaa... I'm getting old and grumpy, while you young ones are having the time of your lives." Dr.Martin scoffed. "You aren't nose deep in business all the time, are you? You need to have fun as well," he added with meaning.

Albert laughed. It felt good that Dr.Martin still treated him simply and friendly like back in the old days. Not that Albert hadn't used the Ardlay name for the "Happy Clinic", he had arranged a program to renovate it and keep a steady financing for all its needs.

"CANDY!!!! Leave my brandy alone and come out here!!!" Dr. Martin shouted. "I could swear that every time I get out in the garden, she takes the opportunity to water my drinks!" he complained to Albert.

"She does?" Albert teased and laughed at Dr.Martin's grumble.

"Albert!" Candy's happy voice filled the air. Stopping a few steps away from him, she looked at him, put her hands on her waist and nodded in approval. "Yes, that's more like it! Shorter hair, but normal! Avoid the oily thingy whenever possible!" she declared.

"Believe me, Candy, I will!", Albert laughed and bend down to give her a quick hug. "Now tell me, aren't you making sure that Dr.Martin's brandy stays in top quality?" he asked her in mock seriousness.

"Absolutely!" Candy caught his teasing.

"Absolutely!" Dr.Martin repeated in a silly voice, shaking his head in mockery. Albert and Candy burst out laughing. "You two are a menace!"

"Tell you what. With your permission, I'll pry Candy away from your precious brandy for a little while. I need to talk to her about something," Albert said to Dr. Martin.

"Oh, please do! Go! My precious brandy and I thank you!"

Albert took Candy and they walked towards the small park opposite the clinic. She could tell by his posture that whatever he wanted to say wasn't easy.

And seeing him with his shorter hair free had made her feel funny. He looked just like her Prince of the Hill again... and Anthony. Only older than both, a grown man.

"It's done..." Albert finally said. "Your adoption is annulled. All of your official papers have been updated too."

Candy knew it wouldn't be easy hearing this, but she found it even more difficult than expected.

"I see... Thank you."

Albert nodded silently.

"I'll have to remember not to add 'Ardlay' to my name anymore," she tried to laugh.

Albert regarded her silently for a moment. "Well, Ardlay or no Ardlay," he replied "it doesn't mean anything to me. I've given clear orders to Aunt Elroy, the Rangans, my staff and everyone and their pets that you are still family to me. Nothing has changed, just the paperwork. Whenever you need anything, don't ever hesitate to ask, I'll be there. All right?"

"All right. Thank you, Albert... for everything." Candy smiled and felt tears welling in her eyes.

"Anytime, sweetheart," he smiled and lightly pinched her chin. Candy grinned.

"And now the bad news," Albert continued with a deep sigh. "I'm leaving on a business trip, a long one unfortunately. I have to show up and off overseas as well, so..." he shrugged.

"Overseas? You mean Europe?...But the war?..." Candy asked with worry.

"Great Britain is safe at the moment, although France is out of the question. Don't worry, we're not going to be in danger," Albert assured her. "Aunt Elroy will kill us otherwise", he added with a laugh.

"Then you'll be fine!" Candy said with relief.

"No, I'll be busy, pressed and fed up, but I'll live through it," Albert sighed.

"How long will you be gone?"

"Well, it's August now. With fall and winter coming, I don't think I'll be back till spring time."

"The best time to return! Together with the new flowers blooming!" Candy grinned.

Back in the clinic, Albert bid goodbye to Dr.Martin as well.

"Take care of yourself, lad. You're on your way to great things." Dr. Martin said with pride.

"Thank you, doctor. I'll surely do my best... Oh and, sorry, I almost forgot. On the matter of the second doctor we talked about the other day, everything is settled. You can have him come whenever you decide," Albert said.

"Albert, you are one fine man! I mean it. Knew it from the moment you first woke up in that bed over there!" Dr.Martin said, clearly moved.

"And if it weren't for you, Dr.Martin I wouldn't have gotten out of that bed. I owe you a lot."

"Second doctor?" Candy asked surprised.

"Yes, it's something Albert and I have been discussing lately. I'll tell you all about it later," Dr. Martin answered.

Candy escorted Albert to his car outside and gave him one last firm hug.

"I'll miss you, my Candy."

"And I'll miss you too, my Albert. Don't forget to write to me!"

"I won't."

They looked at each other for a few moments more and then Albert reluctantly let go of Candy's hands and got in his car.

Watching him drive away, Candy's heart felt heavy. Was it because they were legally related no more? Was it because he was leaving for so long? Was it because his short haircut had made him look somehow even more familiar and yet... new?

Closing the clinic's door, Candy took a deep breath and put her big smile back on. Dr.Martin hadn't missed the chance to pour himself some brandy (the deliberately watered brandy...) and was playing with his trinkets as usual.

"So what was all that about a second doctor?" she asked curiously.

__________


To Be Continued...

Interlude


Two days later, when Candy went to the "Happy Clinic", she found a small parcel left for her.

"A clerk from the Ardlays brought it and asked me to make sure you get it," Dr.Martin said.

Candy took it curiously and carefully unwrapped the paper. Inside there was a dark purple velvet jewel box and a card with a note. Candy recognized Albert's elegant handwriting at once.

"My dear Candy,

I found this yesterday by chance. It was my mother's and then my sister's, both loving it for it's simple beauty. I'd like you to have it now, as I know Anthony would too.

With all my heart,
Albert"

Candy opened the box and her mouth fell open. Inside there was a small silver pendant in the shape of a rose, together with its silver chain. Indeed it was simple, just a little full sculpted rose with some leaves, but it was beautifully made, a perfect blossom with intricate petals. It was as if you had just picked it up and could smell it.

Echoes of words long ago spoken filled her mind.

My mother loved roses... I will name this "Sweet Candy"...
She was a very kind woman. I loved her very much, for she was the only sister I had...

Tears sprang to Candy's eyes. She sat staring at the shining pendant with a smile for long, long moments.

----------

To Be Continued...

Chapter 4


One cool September afternoon, a coach stopped in front of the "Happy Clinic". A well dressed man got off, paid the driver and took a few moments to look around. This would be one of the two places where he'd be working from then on.

Knocking on the clinic's door, a young woman with curly blond hair and large green eyes came to answer.

"Hello? May I help you?"

"Good evening, I'm Doctor Paul Matthews." he introduced himself.

"Oh, hi! You're the new doctor, right? We've been expecting you, welcome! I'm Candy White, the nurse. Please come in!" the woman greeted him with a genuine grin.

"Thank you, Miss White."

"Paul, you little lad!" Dr. Martin's booming voice filled the air. "It's so good to see you!"

"You too, Dr.Martin," Dr.Matthews answered and returned the quick hug.

Candy had to stifle a laugh at the characterization "little lad" and the sight in front of her. Dr.Matthews was so tall, maybe a little taller than Albert even, that with his short frame Dr.Martin looked like a child in comparison. The funny sight was over as soon as Dr.Matthews was offered a seat and Dr.Martin started serving them coffee.

"As I told you in my letter, Paul, I've been too busy lately. And I've had some cases that needed specific surgical skills, not that I didn't manage them, but I could have used some extra help. Thank God that Candy here isn't at all squeamish when it comes to lots of blood!" Dr. Martin tilted his head at Candy and grinned.

"Well, Martin, I'll be happy to help you and Miss White out whenever you need me. My schedule at the hospital will vary, but my free time will be yours." Dr.Matthews answered.

"That is excellent! As I've already told you, Candy, Paul here is one of the finest surgeons in the state! He's a master with the needle and thread!" Martin praised him to Candy.

"I just do the best I can," Dr.Matthews humbly commended.

"Then we are very fortunate to have you here," Candy grinned and Dr. Martin gave his usual heartily laugh. Dr.Matthews simply smiled.

"Did you attend the Medical Convention in Boston? What news is there?" Dr.Martin asked Dr.Matthews and they began talking about the latest medical findings.

Staying politely out of their conversation, since she was a mere nurse, not a doctor herself, Candy used the time to eye the new doctor over. She guessed he was in his late thirties to early forties. He had dark brown hair and expressive hazel eyes. His calm face was angular with sharp features, a broad forehead and strong square jaw. Along with his soft spoken voice, his presence was strong, but gentle, with an air of confidence and trust. She could tell he was a doctor that had earned the respect of many colleagues and patients. He was also of a serious nature, smiling, but rarely grinning or laughing.

"So, have you already moved in, Paul? Have you found an apartment?" Dr.Martin changed the subject after the medical novelties were all discussed.

"No, I'm staying in a hotel at the moment. I need a somewhat large apartment with an extra room for my books and I'm afraid that this time of the year these may be hard to find."

Candy thought for a few moments. Ever since Albert left, her apartment felt too big for her alone. Her landlord had mentioned that a smaller apartment on the first floor would be vacant in a few days and she had considered moving down there. The rent would be cheaper too.

"Uhm, Dr.Matthews?" she interjected politely, "I live in a pretty large apartment right now, but I intend to leave it for a smaller one. You are welcome to come and see it if you like."

The new doctor looked at her with his inquisitive eyes and she fell quiet. His whole presence made her feel strange, very self conscious.

"Thank you, Miss White, I appreciate that," he finally said with a smile.

Candy returned the smile shyly. "And please, call me Candy, everyone does so."

Dr.Matthews gave a small nod of agreement.

"Dr.Martin told me that you'll also be head surgeon in St.Joanne's hospital. I studied there, it's wonderful," Candy continued.

"Yes, it's a good hospital from what I know and can become even better. Are you working there too?"

"Uh, no, I used to, but... uhm..." Candy trailed and fidgeted. She didn't want to discuss her former employment and the troubles she had.

"But she chose the best doctor in Chicago to work for in the end!" Dr.Martin winked, saving her. "And I need her services all day, every day... even Sundays sometimes!"

Candy laughed relieved. "Well, as Albert said, someone has to make sure your brandy stays in top quality," she teased him back.

"Yeah... top quality..." Dr. Martin grumbled in fun.

"Still fancying a drink or two, Martin?" Dr.Matthews turned to the older doctor with a serious tone.

Dr. Martin seemed to be taken aback for a second. "No! No, no, no, no, no," Martin shook his head vehemently. "Those days are over, Paul, I swear," he said most earnestly. "Now it's just a sip after work! Tell him, Candy!"

"Honestly, he never drinks at work. And all the bottles are diluted with water anyway," Candy confirmed.

"That is good to hear..." Dr.Matthews said. "Because I remember one time when I first stitched a patient and then a certain drunk doctor who tripped on a table and fell hitting his forehead."

"And I never got any more stitches after that," Dr.Martin said with meaning.

"No, no that you didn't," Dr. Matthews agreed and lifted his mug for a salute.

"To no stitches that we can avoid!" Dr. Martin returned the salute and the two friends drank to their new collaboration.

x x x

The following day, Dr.Matthews notified Candy and he went by to see her apartment.

"You are living here alone?" he asked Candy, looking around in obvious approval of the place.

"Yes, nowadays that is. I used to share it with a friend of mine, but now he's gone and it's really too big for me."

Dr.Matthews narrowed his eyes at her words. "Shared it? With a male friend?"

Candy bit her lip at her blunder. Not all people had approved of her staying with Albert and apparently the doctor belonged to that category.

"Uhm... it wasn't what you might think. He was ill and I was taking care of him. He's really like a brother to me," she rushed to explain.

"I see..." he replied. "Well..." he turned his gaze back at the apartment, "it surely is large enough... And that room there is good for my library... I think I would be fine here."

"Great! I'll talk to the landlord and... we'll all be fine!" Candy laughed awkwardly.

This time, Dr.Matthews returned the laughter. And although he wasn't what you would easily call handsome, the laughter gave him a charming streak. Candy thought that maybe he just needed more time to lighten up. Time would tell.

------
TBC


Author's Note: I don't think we are told, either in the manga or anime, what doctor Martin's full name is, or whether 'Martin' is his first or last name. I think it's his first name. However, the 'doctor/Dr.' prefix in English goes with the last name, so saying 'Dr.Martin', if Martin is his first name, is actually wrong. I don't want to invent a last name for him though just to be linguistically correct, so I keep the 'Dr.Martin' title. With the new doctor though, it's 'Dr.Matthews' or simply 'Paul', never 'Dr.Paul' or anything.

*****************

Εδω τελειωνει το τμημα που ειχα ανεβασει στο fanfiction.net και μαζι ο,τι ειχα ετοιμοπαραδοτο. Το επομενο κεφαλαιο ειναι μισογραμμενο και δυστυχως δεν προλαβαινω να σας το δωσω συντομα. Λογικα θα το εχω ετοιμο αρχες Ιουλη. Μεχρι τοτε, παρακαλω την υπομονη σας! Και ευχαριστω!

Παρενθεση...

Αυτο ειναι το τραγουδι "People On A String" της Roberta Flack. Τα λογια του ταιριαζουν ακριβως στην ιστορια, γι'αυτο και πηρα τον τιτλο ως τιτλο του φικ.

Σπόιλερ:

Κατεβαστε το απο το λινκ που σας δινω ως free user. Το λινκ το εκρυψα για προστασια απο μηχανες αναζητησης. Το ειχα στο YouTube και μου το σβησανε για copyright...


People On A String

All things beneath the sun,
beneath the sun seem real, seem one.
But all things are not the way they're meant to be,
free from all harm and dishonesty, dishonesty, my love.

No night, not one star that shines,
no star that shines
stands truth and time,
when hands faster than the eye can see
take all we really love.

Tell me now, tell me now.
Hard to keep on waiting.
Can I count on you,
or do I lose you, too'
Are we like all things,
like people on a string?

When games go beyond the game all others play
No one is free from harm and dishonesty, dishonesty, my love.
All things, all things we know, all things beautiful,
soon we find they change and go, change and go.
When fools want to take control of destiny,
no one with a heart is ever free, not ever free, my love.

Tell me now, tell me now.
It's hard to keep on waiting.
Can I count on you,
or do I lose you, too'
Are we like all things,
like people on a string?

******

Αμααααααν..... συγνωμη παιδια, βιαστηκα και εκανα μια μεγαλη γκαφα!



Οταν ανεβασα το φικ στο fanfiction.net ειχα το επιθετο του Πωλ ως Matthiews. Ωστοσο μετα διαπιστωσα οτι υπαρχει ηδη στην Καντυ-Καντυ ενας Μαθιου/Μαθιους ως χαρακτηρας, και ειπα να αλλαξω το επιθετο του σε Μαθεσον για να μην υπαρχουνε μπερδεματα! Σημερα ομως που εβαλα το ετοιμο κεφαλαιο.... ξεχασα να κατσω να αλλαξω ολα τα Μαθιους σε Μαθεσον!

Συγνωμη!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Θα δω αμα μπορουν οι moderators εδω να σβησουν το κεφαλαιο και να ανεβασουν το διορθωμενο!

Απο δω και περα, ολα τα κεφαλαια ειναι περασμενα και απο τη ματια της Libra, ειναι η beta-reader μου, ο διορθωτης μου. Τη χιλιοευχαριστω για το μερακι της και την ενθουσιωδη συμπαρασταση της!

-----------------------------------------------------

Chapter 5

Autumn and winter passed relatively quietly for Candy. Her job kept her busy, mornings and afternoons. The only thing that broke the routine was the presence of Dr.Matheson at the “Happy Clinic”. Unlike Dr.Martin, Dr.Matheson had the habit of seriously explaining to his patients what their condition was in great detail and giving them equally detailed instructions on what to do to recuperate. Candy found it fascinating and listened to every word very carefully.

“Iʼm all finished, Dr.Martin, Dr. Matheson! Iʼll be heading home! See you tomorrow!” Candy bid farewell one late February evening.

The two doctors wished her goodnight, and watched her leave.

“Candy is a very amiable young lady,” Dr.Matheson remarked.

“Oh yes, that she is. Sheʼs got the heart of an a n g e l,” Dr. Martin agreed.

“Mmm... I would like to get to know her better. Do you think she would accept going out for a dinner with me?” Paul asked.

“Why wouldnʼt she?” Dr. Martin grinned

“I donʼt know... And thereʼs something Iʼve been wondering about, something sheʼs said. That she once lived with a male friend of hers... Do you know anything about that, Martin?”

“Yeah, she lived with Albert, you know, William Ardlay, our patron.”

“With Ardlay? Why on Earth would they live together in an apartment like that?” Paul asked clearly puzzled.

“Ah, long story. Albert had lost his memory in an accident, he had no clue who he was. Instead of letting him wander aimlessly around, Candy took him in and looked after him,” Martin explained. “Heh, she was protecting him like a lioness, you should have seen her,” he laughed, “when a car hit him and he was brought over here, she ran to the streets in her nightgown to find him!” Martin gave another laugh.

“I donʼt understand. Why didnʼt she just take him to his family?” Paul frowned.

“Thatʼs another long story, which I think that Candy could tell you better. Ask her over dinner,” Martin winked.

Paul stayed silent in thought.

***

One Saturday afternoon in early March, work in the “Happy Clinic” finished early and both Candy and Dr.Matheson had the rest of the day off. The doctor asked Candy if she would like to have dinner with him and Candy, surprised, accepted the offer. He chose a nice restaurant a few blocks away.

“So... Candy... tell me a little about yourself,” the doctor asked while they were waiting for their order.

“There isnʼt that much to say,” Candy shrugged, being somewhat nervous.

“Where did you grow up? Whereʼs your family from?”

“I donʼt know. I never knew my parents. I was raised in an orphanage, ʽPonyʼs Homeʼ,” Candy smiled.

“I see. Iʼve heard of that orphanage, itʼs a good place.”

“Youʼve heard of it?”

“Yes, I once treated an ill mother of five, who kept saying that if she didnʼt make it, her younger children would have to be sent there, but she was calm about it, since itʼs a good place.”

“It is... Mrs.Pony and Sister Maria are the loveliest, most caring people, they are true mothers to all. I owe so much to them,” Candy said in admiration.

“Was it them who suggested youʼd become a nurse?”, the doctor asked.

“Um... Not at first. I got the idea while watching a doctor treat a child and then Mrs.Pony and Sister Maria were very supportive. I like the idea of helping people, of being there for them.”

“Yes, itʼs very rewarding...”, he agreed.

“Did you become a doctor for the same reason?” Candy asked shyly.

“Partly...” Paul started, “My father was a doctor, he had this small practice in Colorado. You could say I followed his footsteps... My mother was a teacher, sheʼs long retired now.”

“You grew up in Colorado?”

“Yes, and my mother and sister still live there.”

“Thatʼs wonderful... I mean, having a real family to go back to must be wonderful.”

“Yes, Iʼm very close to them, even though my work is keeping me far away.”

Just then, their food arrived and they spent a few minutes focused on that.

“I seem to remember you telling me about having a brother of some sort... The man you shared your apartment with,” Paul broke the silence.

“Um, yes... Well... Thatʼs one very long story.” Candy started feeling a bit uncomfortable. She well remembered how people disapproved of her living with Albert. And the doctor had seemed appalled by it as well.

“Thatʼs what Martin said,” Paul commended, after swallowing his food.

Candy almost choked on her sip of water. “Dr.Martin told you about Albert?”

“Yes, just some things, that he once needed medical help himself, Martin treated him and heʼs been a friend and patron of the ʽHappy Clinicʼ ever since,” Paul said. “But what puzzles me is what you would have to do with a man of William Ardlayʼs status...” Paul said, curiosity in his low voice.

“Dr.Martin told you that Albert is William Ardlay too?” Candy said, alarmed.

“Well, I knew that Ardlay is the patron of the clinic, so Martin told me a bit of how he came to be so,” Paul answered calmly.

“Oh...” some of the alarm left Candy. “Yes, I suppose one thing leads to another...” She took a deep breath. “As I said, itʼs a very long story... I... When I was twelve I was taken to be a play friend to the children of the Rangan family, attached to the Ardlays. One night I almost drowned falling down a waterfall, but a strange kind man saved me and became my friend. He introduced himself only as Albert, never told me anything about himself. And when the Rangans falsely accused me of stealing and sent me away to Mexico, Great Uncle William Ardlay, who no one had ever seen, decided to adopt me and bring me back to Lakewood.”

“And Albert was that man?” Paul gathered.

“Yes, but I didnʼt find out until many years later and after Albert had recovered from a terrible accident that had caused him to lose his memory. It was during that time that weʼd shared the apartment. With no memory, Albert was at a loss of who he was, what we would do... I couldnʼt leave him like that, I owed him,” Candy said.

“I see...” Paul said and studied Candy for a few moments.

Candy held his penetrating gaze for a while and then looked away. “Anyway... Albert finally remembered, he left to join his family... and after a while I learned the truth of him being William Ardlay...”

“The man who had adopted you...” Paul cut in.

“Yeah... but heʼs only nine years older, so heʼs always been more like an older brother to me... the older brother I never really had.”

“Mmm....” Paul nodded. “And how come a daughter of the Ardlays is a nurse, I wonder,” he genuinely asked.

“Oh, I never felt like a daughter of the Ardlays. Not really anyway,” Candy shook her head. “I chose my own path, never relied on them. And a little after learning of who Albert really was, I asked him to annul my adoption. Iʼm no longer an Ardlay, just plain Candice White.”

Paul raised both his eyebrows. “Iʼm impressed. Youʼve turned down the fortunes of the Ardlays? Right when you could have it all?”

“I never wanted the fortunes of the Ardlays. I just wanted a home and a family. And I guess I did have those... for a while,” Candy simply said.

“For a while? I donʼt understand. Didnʼt Albert make sure youʼd be taken care of? He was your guardian. Wasnʼt he there for you?”

“He was, he did, but Great Aunt Elroy would not hear of it,” Candy explained. “When Albert was away, she was always fighting me. She never approved of my adoption, me an orphan girl in the Ardlay family out of ʽWilliamʼs whimʼ. And besides, I didnʼt know then that Albert was Great Uncle William then, they were keeping it a secret from everyone... And then Albert went on a long trip to Africa, his train blew up in Italy when he was returning, he lost his memory, fortunately sent over here to the hospital I was working, I took care of him... and you get the rest.” Candy lowered her eyes. “And now that heʼs officially the head of the Ardlay family, I thought that I should stop being his adopted daughter, it would be better for his... status as you said.”

Paul thought for a few moments, clearly impressed by her honestly and humility.

“What I do get is that before me sits an extraordinary young lady,” his voice low and velvety, a faint smile on his lips. “From poor orphan to rich foster daughter to simple nurse... that is quite a journey. And it takes courage and pride to stay true to yourself.”

“It was Albert who always supported me and told me to be strong and find my own path in life. And I did... Iʼm happy in the path Iʼve chosen,” Candy smiled.

Paul smiled at her too, his face softening.

“May you always be happy in the path you walk on,” he raised his glass to her.

“Thank you,” Candy said, feeling her cheeks redden. She felt like she had been going through a test and passed it with a good grade.

An hour later, reaching their building, Paul stopped by the front door.

“It was a very lovely evening, Candy. Itʼs been a long time since Iʼve enjoyed myself this much.”

“Yes, it was, I had a wonderful time as well.” Candy grinned at him.

“I would very much like to repeat this in the future... Another dinner, or lunch perhaps?” Paul said.

“Thank you, Iʼm...” Candy trailed for the right word. “I would like that too,” she finally said.

“Iʼm honored,” Paul said.

They went up the stairs to the first floor where Candyʼs apartment was.

“Till next time...” Paul said, took Candyʼs right hand and lightly kissed her knuckles.

Candy blushed to her ears.

“Goodnight, my lady...” Paul said.

“G...goodnight, Doctor.”

With her heart beating fast, she opened her door and disappeared inside.

****

Some days later, in the “Happy Clinic”, Candy was tending to her neighborʼs, Mrs.Carrington, broken forearm, a nasty injury that Dr.Matheson had set straight.

“Ah, bless Dr. Matheson, he is one fine doctor... I was so worried my arm would not heal well,” the old lady said. “When I slipped and fell on it, I thought I was doomed!”

“Yes, Dr.Matheson did a fine job, but you also are a very good patient, following his instructions word for word! I can see that you rest your arm and it heals beautifully indeed!” Candy smiled.

“Such a good doctor... And nice man too... Heʼs still single, isnʼt he, Candy? Now thatʼs the kind of man Iʼd love to see you married to!” the old lady beamed.

“Mrs. Carrington?!...” Candyʼs jaw dropped and she blushed.

“Oh come on, Candy dear! Heʼs perfect for you! Youʼd make a beautiful couple!... Doctor and nurse... Oh, it would be wonderful!”

Candy gasped shaking her head. “Iʼm not marrying anyone...”

“Not marrying anyone?? Oh but dear, why not, you are certainly of age and such a sweet girl!” Mrs. Carrington persisted.

“I mean I will marry the man I will fall in love with...” Candy clarified.

“And Dr. Matheson is not a man to fall in love with? Are you serious? Heʼs gorgeous!” the old lady grinned and laughed.

“Mrs.Carrington?!?!?” Candy took a deeper shade of red at her boldness. Old ladies and their ease with words...

Just then, Dr.Martin came back from his morning chores and saved Candy from further match making attempts.

****

To Be Continued....

Chapter 6

****

Early in June of 1916, on a bright Saturday noon, a couple was walking towards their building, talking. The girl was laughing with something they were saying, the man was smiling. Suddenly, they saw a car parked alongside and a young man leaning on it with his arms crossed. The girl recognized him immediately.

“Albert?.. Itʼs Albert!” Candy cried out and run to him. Paul paused a little watching her.

Albert grinned at the girl. “Surprise!”

“Albert, youʼre back!” Candy said and held out her arms. Albert picked her up in a great hug and off her feet, both of them laughing.

“When did you return?” Candy asked as soon as her feet touched ground.

“Late at night yesterday! Havenʼt even unpacked properly yet!”

“Oh, I was so worried all this time! I got only two letters from you, mister, two in all these months!” she poked him on the chest. “And I didnʼt know whether my letters had reached you!” she complained.

“I know, sweetheart, Iʼm sorry... Overseas correspondence was not easy with the war, no communication was. Even my aunt got only two letters, one telegram and a botched telephone call. And I got two letters from you in London and one was re-routed to Chicago and I found it this morning,” Albert smiled.

“Oh...” Candy understood. “How did business go?”

Albert shrugged. “Not too bad, considering the war again.”

At that moment Paul caught up with them. Candy noticed him.

“Oh, um... Albert, this is Dr. Paul Matheson, the clinicʼs new doctor. Paul, this is the Albert that both Dr.Martin and I have been rambling about,” she introduced the two men.

Albert and Paul shook hands.

“Pleased to meet you, Doctor.”

“How do you do, Mr.Ardlay.”

Albert smiled and shook his head. “Just ʽAlbertʼ, please, like Candy and Dr.Martin call me. Though Iʼm afraid to guess what they have rambled about...” Albert gave Candy a look.

“Only about good things. What else would we say?” Candy replied innocently.

Albert gave her a playful narrow-eyed side look.

“Well, if you will excuse me, itʼs been a long day. It was nice meeting you.” Paul said.

“You too, Doctor,” Albert replied.

“Have a nice evening, Paul,” Candy added.

Paul touched the hem of his hat in salute and entered the building.

“I want to hear everything about your trips,” Candy turned to Albert joyfully.

“Good, because I want to hear all about your doings as well, so... how about you pack a few things and we drive up to Lakewood for the weekend, mmm? Itʼll be just the two of us, everyone else is here in Chicago.”

“Wonderful! Just give me a few minutes to change!... Come on in!”

Candy trotted towards the entrance and Albert followed her.

“Here we are!...” she said opening her door and walking in.

Albert took a look around. “Hmmm... itʼs a bit different from our old one.”

“Yeah, the kitchen and living room are one, plus one bedroom and bathroom. Itʼs smaller, but suits me just fine,” Candy smiled.

“And you said in your letter that Dr.Matheson has rented the other?”

“Yeah, and you wouldnʼt believe with how many books heʼs filled it with. Itʼs more like a library than an apartment!” Candy laughed.

Candy went to her bedroom, leaving the door open. She whisked her suitcase from under her bed and began filling it with some clothes. Albert watched her leaning on the door frame.

“So... how has having Dr.Matheson as a neighbor been?” he asked.

“Um...” Candy searched for the word, “Educational!.. Iʼve borrowed a lot of books to read.”

“Really? You reading books? Thatʼs a surprise, it never was your favorite pass-time.”

“No, but Iʼve grown to love it! I started with medical books, way more detailed than the ones we had in the Nurseʼs School, and then I read some literature as well.”

Albert raised one eyebrow and half smiled.

“Well, I had nothing else to do in the cold winter afternoons, I had no house-mate to chat all the time!” Candy responded to his teasing.

Albert laughed at that.

Candy finished packing and glanced at the hat box lying on top of her wardrobe.

“Hmm... I think Iʼll take my summer hat for Lakewood,” she said and moved to take a stool she had near to step on so that she could reach the box.

Albert intervened. “Hey, let me get that for you, sweetheart,” he easily reached up, took the box and gave it to her.

“Oh, thank you, Albert” Candy grinned. “Iʼve forgotten what a treat it is to have a tall man in the house!” she laughed.

**

They arrived at Lakewood a couple of hours later, just as the sun was beginning to set. Candy was surprised to see Albert taking a different road around the estate and reaching a metal gate sheʼd never seen before.

“Where are we?” she asked.

“Youʼll see...” Albert answered with a smile and got out to open the gate.

A five minute drive later, a familiar house appeared around the corner.

“Thatʼs the old abandoned house!” Candy beamed.

“Yes, it is! I just brought us here by the back road!” Albert said.

“Brilliant!” Candy hopped out of the car as soon as it stopped and run to the front door.

“Itʼs not locked, let yourself in!”

Candy let herself in and her mouth opened in surprise. The place had been renovated, with a new set of two couches in front of the fireplace. Albert entered as well.

“Wow, I have to admit that it looks a lot better now!” she grinned.

“Yeah, the cobwebs were out of fashion as decorative pieces. Something had to be done!” Albert grinned.

“And the kitchen is renovated too, wow! I love it!”

“The thing is, I prefer this place to the main mansion when Iʼm here on my own,” Albert added. “I like the smaller space where everything is near. In the main mansion, the kitchen is like two miles away and the front entrance three! Ugh! The only thing missing is electricity, but Iʼll have that taken care of soon as well. ”

They unpacked their supplies from the car, lit candles and oil lamps, and Albert began preparing their dinner. Candy offered to do it herself, claiming that sheʼd become a better cook during the past months, but Albert would not hear of it.

“I love cooking, you love my cooking, so you just sit there,” he insisted.

They kept chatting all the time, with Albert mostly telling Candy about his time in England. It hadnʼt been a very cheerful journey, with the terrible war casting a heavy shadow over business and every day life. Albert confessed that some of the Ardlay investments had not gone well, but that was to be expected with Europe simply trying to survive.

The mood changed when they began eating and Albert started talking about his brief stay in New York City on his way back. Archie and Annie had traveled there to meet up with him as well and sent Candy their love. The couple had been living in Boston since the previous September, with Archie in his first year of Law School, and gotten engaged at Christmas. Unfortunately, Candy had not been there for the happy event, stuck in Chicago as she was.

“I had forgotten how big Central Park is,” Albert said between mouthfuls, his eyes bright with excitement. “I went for a walk one afternoon and totally lost sense of time and orientation! It was after midnight when I was back in the apartment and George was shaking his head with a look of pure ʽIʼll kill youʼ all over his face!” he laughed.

“Poor George! He has his hands full of you and your whims!” Candy joined the laughter.

“It wasnʼt a whim, it was just a walk!” Albert protested.

“Yeah, in Central Part late at night?? With all the crimes happening in there?? Iʼd have killed you too!” Candy teased him.

“Nooo, you would have come with me!” Albert said, pointing at her with his fork.

“And then George would have killed us both,” Candy chirped. “ ʽCouple murdered by their butler after late night walk in Central Parkʼ ”, Candy said like reading a newspaper title.

Albert laughed out loud.

Candy swirled her fork in her salad and nervously asked the thing she wanted to ask ever since the New York part came up. “Did you see anyone else in New York?...”

“Anyone else?”

“Terry is performing there...” she said quietly.

Albert sobered up and gave her a fond smile. “I thought about looking him up... But I knew it would upset you, so I chose not to... I heard heʼs doing very well though.”

“Yeah... And he married Susanna last April.” Candy swallowed hard and lowered her gaze.

Albert looked at her, his eyes full of compassion. He hated seeing her in pain, even after so long.

A thought crossed his mind. “You know, I havenʼt been to Florida in a while and both Aunt Elroy and George keep telling me to show my big ʽWilliam Ardlayʼ face over there as well, so how about you coming with me? You do need some summer holidays to cheer you up! We could leave in a week!”

“Florida?... Oh Albert...” Candyʼs face fell, “Iʼd so love to, but Iʼm committed already... Thereʼs this special course for nurses this summer, ʽOperating Room Trainingʼ. Paul will be teaching too. And heʼs put in a good word for me and St.Joannaʼs will have me back, in the course and in employment afterwards. Iʼm really interested in it.”

“Oh...” Albert sounded surprised and disappointed. “Summer studies? No summer fun?”

Candy smiled at him. “There will be time for fun too, but... I really want to attend this course... Saving a life on the operating table is very hard and precious... I want to learn how to do the best. I hope you understand...”

Albert nodded with a smile. “I do understand, Candy... Itʼs very you.”

“It finishes mid August...” Candy added. “Where will you be then?”

Albert thought for a moment. “Well... If not still in Florida, then probably in Texas on the way back. My rough schedule has me back in Chicago in late September.”

“September??” Candy protested.

“Believe me, I donʼt like it any more than you do... ”

“Youʼll be gone all summer long...” Candy complained.

“I know, I know... The price of running the Ardlay affairs..” Albert shook his head and sighed.

*

Having finished their dinner, Candy insisted on washing the dishes herself. Albert watched her, waiting to dry them up.

“So... Dr.Matheson... Paul... You are on first name basis I see...” he looked at her with meaning, a crooked smile on his lips.

Candy blushed a little. “Yeah, well, you know... Working together has brought us close. Weʼve had lunches and such.”

“Lunches?? Book exchanges and lunches?” Albert raised one eyebrow and his smile grew.

“Stop teasing me, a girl has got to eat, right?” Candy said faked being offended.

“Sure, Iʼm not saying otherwise,” Albert tried to sound serious.

“Heʼs a very good doctor... and a nice man,” Candy said, focusing on washing a plate. Then a thought came to her. “The neighbors keep saying what a great husband heʼd be,” she smirked.

That sobered Albert up.

“You remember Mrs.Carrington, from next door? She keeps telling me, ʽCandy, is it time for me to buy a new fancy dress for your wedding yet?ʼ”

“Your wedding?” Albertʼs eyes widened.

“Yeah, theyʼre all playing match-making these days,” Candy shook her head, brows high.

“What, you and Dr.Matheson?”

“Yeah! Doctor and nurse! They describe it as idyllic!” Candy snickered.

Albert blinked and shifted his posture awkwardly. “And... what do you think?”

“Me?”

“Yeah. Do you want to get married?”

“Sure, I do,” Candy chirped.

Albert kept staring at her.

Candy caught his expression and gave a small laugh. “What, to Paul you mean?”

“Well, he is the idyllic groom weʼre talking about...” Albert shrugged and shook his head.

Candy burst out laughing. “No, no.... I mean, I donʼt know... Paul is not the kind of man Iʼve ever dreamed of getting married to.”

“Oh?... What kind of a man have you ever dreamed of getting married to?” Albert asked, crossing his arms over his chest.

“Well... you know...” Candy looked away and took a few moments to answer. “Anthony... Terry...” she added with a low voice. She scratched a plate with her fingernail, lost in memories.

“Sooo....” Albertʼs voice kicked started her again, “you donʼt have any feelings for Paul then?”

That got her to pause again. “I donʼt know,” she looked at her friend. “I donʼt know what I feel... He makes me feel....” she shook her head. “I learn so many things from him... I admire him... I want to do my best for him, to impress and make him proud of me. I know Iʼm just a nurse, but when he congratulates my work, it means a lot to me... And I feel safe with him, Iʼm not alone....” She took a deep breath. “Anyway, as I said, heʼs a good man and Iʼm flattered that heʼs taken an interest in me.”

“I see...” Albert said and thought for a moment. “Heʼs a bit older though,” he added.

“Yeah, that he is,” Candy admitted. “Heʼll be thirty nine this August.”

Albert raised both eyebrows at that.

“But both Mrs.Carrington and Mrs.Coulby had much older husbands, so itʼs not uncommon,” Candy rushed to say.

Albert nodded, eyebrows still high.

“Oh, come on, stop teasing me!” Candy pouted. “Iʼm not saying I will marry him! For goodnessʼ sake, Iʼve known him for less than a year and nothing has even happened between us yet! He may not even be interested in me that way and all this could be old womenʼs talk!”

“Iʼm sorry,” Albert grinned, but his tone was sincere.

Candy sighed and looked down. “And with my luck... I may never marry anyway...” she said sadly. “I seem to lose those I love...”

“Oh come on, donʼt say that...” Albert trailed his finger on her cheek. “I bet there are dozens of men out there taken with you. You will find love again...”

Candy looked at him, her face still sad. Seeking his comfort, she turned and placed her head and hands on his chest spontaneously. Albert wrapped his arms around her at once.

“Oh, Albert... Iʼve missed you... even your teasing.” she mumbled.

“Me too, sweetheart... And donʼt you turn pessimistic on me, you hear me?” he said, rubbing her back and head. “You are not alone...” He grabbed her shoulders to look at her. “And hey... If no one else, youʼve got me to love you!” he added in a merry tone.

That made Candy chuckle. “Thank you...” she said, feeling a knot in her throat.

Albert smiled and gave her a light kiss on the top of her head.

“Ahhh.... I got your shirt wet!” Candy squeaked. In her move to hug Albert, she had completely forgotten that she had been washing the dishes.

Albert looked at his shirt and laughed. “Donʼt worry, itʼll dry off.”

**

“There you go,” Albert gave Candy her mug of tea and sat beside her, his own in hand. They had ignored the couch and sat on the fluffy carpet on the floor, their backs to the couch.

Candy thanked him and continued staring at the flames in the fireplace. Although it was early summer, the nights were still cool and a small fire was welcome.

“I do like it,” Candy said after taking a sip of her tea. “You were right!”

“Yup, as I said, this brew is delicious and relaxing. I downed gallons of it in London and brought a lot back home. Remind me to give you a pack in case I forget.”

Candy nodded. She then noticed that Albert rubbed his neck and rolled his head again, something that heʼd done a few times more during the past hours.

“Is your neck troubling you?” she asked concerned.

Albert turned surprised. “Mmm? Ah, no, itʼs nothing. Just a bit stiff from the long hours in the train, thatʼs all.”

Candy frowned, raised her hand and gave the muscle at the base of his neck an experimental gentle but firm pinch. Albert slightly flinched and winced at her gesture.

“Thatʼs not a bit stiff, thatʼs properly all knotted up!” she said gently. “Is there any alcohol or rubbing oil?”

Albert mimicked her frown in humor. “Why?”

“To give you a neck massage, you silly! Otherwise, it may be even worse tomorrow!”

“Oh...”

“Alcohol or some oil. Now.” Candy commanded.

“Yes, maʼam,” Albert got up.

A couple of minutes later, Albert was back with a bottle in hand.

“Will this do?”

Candy read the label. ʽAlcohol, 70%ʼ. “Perfect! Now, sit down with your back towards me and lower your shirt, please.”

“Yes, nurse White.”

Candy stifled a laugh and gave him a light smack on his shoulder. Then she knelt behind him, poured some alcohol in her cupped hand and trickled it down his neck and shoulders.

“Is this hurting you?” she asked trying light pressure on his muscles.

“No.”

“This?” she increased pressure.

“A little.”

“This?” she pressed harder.

“This yes!” he gasped.

“Alright...” she soothed, “it must hurt a little, but not too much. OK?” she adjusted her pressure.

“You are the nurse,” Albert said and let out a breath.

For a few minutes neither spoke, Candy focusing on kneading his stiff muscles, Albert breathing heavy both from slight pain and slow relief.

As she was working on his left shoulder, Candy noticed that scar again just under her left thumb. It was the one Albert had received from the train explosion in Italy. A piece of metal had embedded itself over his left shoulder-blade and it had taken four stitches to close the deep gash. The first time Candy had seen it was when Albert was still in the hospital. She had noticed his wincing and favoring his left shoulder as he was changing his night shirt, helped him and seen the dressing on the wound. (*)

“Does this still bother you?” she asked him, tracing her fingers over it.

“Sorry?”

“This old wound here...”

“Oh, that!.. No, no itʼs fine now.”

Candy sighed. “I remember when you were first brought in the hospital on a stretcher... I almost didnʼt recognize you...” she added, her massage more gentle.

“And I certainly did not recognize you at all,” Albert chuckled.

Candy smiled faintly. “Now we laugh... But back then I was terrified for you... When you disappeared from the hospital... And then when you left home... ”

She unconsciously paused in her memories for a moment and then caressed the hair at his neck. His blond locks had grown a bit.

Albert turned around to look at her.

“At least now I know where you are and that George is with you,” Candy said with a smile, but seriously.

“Iʼm sorry Iʼd left like that... you know, back then.” Albert said.

Candy felt a shiver at his voice and the look he gave her. The dim light darkened his grey-blue eyes.

She smiled wider and Albert smiled back. She felt that strange shiver again and looked away.

“Itʼs gotten late,” Albert shifted and pulled his shirt close. “Sleepy?”

“A bit,” Candy admitted.

“Well... thereʼs the couch here and the bed in the other room. The bed is more comfortable, the couch warmer because of the fireplace. Which do you prefer?”

“What about this couch?” Candy pointed at the smaller one.

“Thatʼs small.”

“No, itʼs not, itʼs fine,” she said and hopped on it and curled up to prove her point. She couldnʼt stretch her legs if lying on her back, but on her side curled up, she fitted just fine.

“See?” Candy grinned smugly. “I didnʼt grow tall for a reason, I fit anywhere!”

“That you do!” Albert laughed. “But you may end up stiff curled up like that.”

“I never get stiff!” she grinned. “Do you fit that couch?” she pointed at the larger one and lifted one eyebrow.

“Yup, fortunately I do, on my side like you. And I prefer it to the bed actually, because I love watching the fire.”

“Wonʼt you get stiff?” she asked.

“Iʼve got a nurse that gives excellent massage.”

Candy giggled.

“Iʼll go get linens and blankets,” Albert finished.

*

Half an hour later, they were both lying down, eyes half closed.

“I havenʼt asked...” Candy broke the silence. “Have you met anyone interesting lately?”

“How do you mean?”

“You know, Aunt Elroy or George or neighbors asking when to buy fancy clothes?” Candyʼs voice was full of tease.

Albert didnʼt get her meaning at first, so he got a second look at her. Seeing her looking at him with screaming meaning, trying to stifle a grin, he finally got it, rolled his eyes and laughed.

“I am not marrying anyone, no!” he said firmly.

“Oh, come on!” Candy half sat up, laughing. “I bet there are dozens of... countesses queuing up to charm you!”

“Countesses?!?!”

“Yeah, you know, high class ladies! All with French laces and elegant English hats!”

Albert snorted. “As if I give a damn if they have French laces or elegant English hats!”

“Mmm... I see Aunt Elroy already having checked evening dresses out...” Candy kept teasing.

“Yeah, sheʼs bumped into Mrs.Carrington in the shop and theyʼve exchanged opinions on what looks better on them!” Albert teased back.

They both paused imagining that and burst out laughing hard.

“Does beige or green brighten my face better?” Albert did a perfect imitation of Elroyʼs voice and Candy held her stomach laughing even harder.

“Oh my... Now Iʼll never be able to see Mrs.Carrington without imagining her with Aunt Elroy shopping!” tears of laughter streamed down Candyʼs eyes.

“Oh, believe me, Candy...” Albert said when they had calmed down, “my aunt has noted down every possible match for me, and Iʼve been rained down with names ever since I came of age.” He shook his head. “When Iʼm not behind a desk working, I have to endure nagging to headache point... Honestly, sometimes I stay longer in the office just to shorter the Elroy-talk afterwards.”

Candy smiled in sympathy. “Poor puppy... I still canʼt imagine you behind a desk working though.”

“And yet itʼs the awful present reality...” Albert let out a deep breath. “The days of fun are over.”

“Well, you had some fun today... No paper in sight.” Candy said softly.

“Yeah, youʼre right...” Albert realized. He paused looking at her for a few moments. “Thank you,” he added with a deep tone.

“For what?”

“For today... And... Mostly for still having me as plain old Albert. It means a lot to me...” he said seriously.

“Why wouldnʼt I have you as plain old Albert?”

Albert gave a bitter smile. “Believe me, Candy, Iʼve seen people change their attitude towards me the moment they hear my full name... People Iʼd considered friends...”

“Well, youʼll always be my old Albert to me,” Candy smiled. “I canʼt even think of calling you ʽWilliamʼ!” she joked, earning a short laugh from Albert. “Really, if Iʼm ever expected to call you that, formally or whatever, then Iʼve got to warn you, that will never happen. Iʼll stutter every time.”

“Then, please, never even try!” Albert grinned.

“Or ʽMr.Ardlayʼ,” Candy continued. “Eww, thatʼs freezing cold! ... And itʼs like imagining you like I used to think Great Uncle William was, all white hair and chest long white beard!”

Albert laughed again. “Now, thereʼs an idea for a look in forty yearsʼ time...”

Candy gave one last sleepy laugh. “Go to sleep, Albert...”

“You too, Candy...”

A moment later.

“Goodnight, William.”

Pause.

“Goodnight, Candice.”

Pause.

“Iʼve never heard you call me ʽCandiceʼ before... ”

“And youʼve never called me ʽWilliamʼ either.”

“My teachers called me ʽCandiceʼ... I hate it.”

“I know the feeling.ʼ

“ ʽWilliam Ardlay, I did not expect this from you!ʼ”

“No, it was usually ʽWilliam Ardlay, were on Earth have you been, youʼre late again!ʼ ”

“And where had you been?”

“As far away as possible...”

Pause.

“Sweet dreams, Albert...”

“You too, Candy...”

*******


To Be Continued....


(*) This wound was never in the manga, novel or anime, Iʼve made it up myself. Albert had ran away chasing Puppet and the train had exploded behind him, the blast wave lifting him off and thrashing him away. Among the zillion shards, I believe he got hit by at least one.