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anglophiletraveler · 1 year

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In My Life Chapter

There’s a lot going on in this chapter, new characters are coming into play. Hopefully my picture of the outfit that I pictured Demelza in comes out okay, because I really love it! And as always, thank you to my supportive Italian friend, Karen Bockius!! Enjoy!!

Chapter 26

“I Am Yours”

Andry Grammar

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

Demelza and Ross settled into Ross’s BMW and put their seatbelts on. Both let out long sighs at the same time, and looked at each other and started laughing.

“Bloody hell Ross, no offence love, but I’m kind of glad to be out of the house for a couple of hours,” Demelza stated. Ross started the car and headed out the long drive.

“No offence taken, love. And I feel the exact same way. I only hope that the party isn’t all stuffy nonsense and we can actually enjoy it,” Ross added.

Demelza squinted her eyes at something she’s been thinking about ever since they arrived at Nampara. “Ross.”

“Hmmm.”

“There’s something that I noticed today. Do you realise that here at your home, that you call your mother ‘mama’ and your father ‘papa’. But in London when they were visiting for Christmas you called them mum and dad. It’s almost like you fall into being, what is it that Jud and Prudie call you?” Demelza observed.

Ross sighed, “Young Master Ross?”

“Yes! Young Master Ross! Did you get realise that you did that?”

Ross shook his head a little and made a face, “Yeah I guess I do. I guess coming back to my childhood home causes me to do that. Do you think that’s bad? Do you want me to stop doing it?”

“Oh no, you don’t need to stop. It was just something I observed. I think it’s kind of sweet.” Demelza told him.

“What about you Demelza? Drake calls you sister most of the time instead of your name. Did your other brothers call you sister as well?”

“Yeah for the most part. Actually, after me mum died, I hardly ever heard my name unless it was at school. My brothers called me sister, and sometimes I called them brother. Me mum called me Demelza, but my father always just called me daughter,” Demelza got a shiver just thinking about that memory.

Ross grabbed Demelza’s hand and it kissed it tenderly. He could see the pain in her face, and hear it in her voice. “I’m sorry I asked, love. Try to forget about it and have a good time tonight, yeah? You’re going to be the most beautiful woman at the party, and I’ll be the luckiest man there, because you’ll be going home with me. You’ll be on my arm, and I will never let you go.

“Thank you Ross. Does that mean that you’re going to dance with me tonight?” Demelza asked.

Ross rolled his eyes and acted like he was sick with his best Cockney accent, “I don’t knoow if I’ll be able to dance, love. I’ve got a bit of a pinch in me back, right back ‘eeere see.”

“Oh Ross, you’re barmy!”

“Oh babe, of course I’ll dance with you. I don’t think we’ve ever danced together, have we?” Ross asked.

“No, I don't think so, not properly anyway. Well, we best get a move on or all the good appetisers will be gone before we get there!” Demelza smiled, and this made Ross laugh at the ginger.

“Oh my love, I do love you!” Ross sighed. Watching Demelza eat was one of his favourite things to do. She thoroughly enjoyed food, especially Chinese, and she always seemed to have a hollow leg when it comes to eating. He wondered if it was because of the way she and her brothers grew up without a lot of food in the house.

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

“Bloody hell look at this place! Caroline’s uncle certainly has the outside of the mansion decked out. If this is what it’s like on the outside, I can’t imagine what the inside will look like! And valet parking! Well love, I have a feeling that you’ll certainly see servants decked out here! They’ll make ol Prudie and Jud look like street rats!” Ross was clearly impressed by the Penvenan home.

Demelza looked at Ross, “Haven’t you ever been to Killewaren?”

“I don’t think so. If I ever was, I certainly don’t remember it.”

“Hmmm I find it odd that I’ve been here and you haven’t,” Demelza said.

Ross parked the car and got out so that the valet could park the car, and then walked over to Demelza’s side and opened the door for her. He wrapped Demelza’s arms around his and kissed her. He noticed that her face was just glowing. He gallantly led the way to the front steps, “Shall we my love?”

“We shall, my love!” Demelza giggled back. And with that, the dashing couple made their way into the front door.

As soon as they entered the foyer, a servant took their coats for them, and another one guided them to the main hall where the bulk of the party was. Ross tried to look around without looking like a gawking school girl but it was hard. The foyer alone was impressive with a beautiful chandelier above their heads, and a large round marble table in the middle with a tall vase of flowers. Beneath their feet was a marble floor. Ross was wondering how old that was. In the main hall there were sparkling chandeliers overhead, and a spectacular black and white tile floor. Christmas trees decked out in white lights and red and gold ornaments stood on the perimeter of the room. It wasn’t long before Ross heard a loud squeal which made him turn around towards a billowy blue cloud that was heading towards him, which turned out to be a stunning Caroline running over to hug Demelza, with Dwight following behind her like a good boyfriend.

Ross and Dwight shook hands and laughed at their girlfriends hugging each other and carrying on like they haven’t seen one another in years!

Dwight smirked, “Well Ross, if these two keep this up, we might not have to dance at all tonight!”

“We can only hope, mate. We can only hope!” Ross answered back.

Caroline stopped in her tracks and gave a death stare to the two men, “Not a chance Dwight Enys! Don’t even think about it. I’m not wearing spanx and sucking my stomach in for no reason!”

They all laughed at her. Ross offered, “Caroline you look absolutely stunning in that gown!”

Caroline smiled and did a turn in her sleeveless blue ball gown, her blonde hair pulled into an updo. “Thank you Ross. But Demelza looks absolutely spectacular does she not! I wanted to wear some fun pants, but as hostess I thought I should wear a gown.”

“Demelza, you do look amazing. At first I thought you were in a gown until I saw that you were actually wearing pants.” Dwight said.

“Oh thank you Dwight. I went for comfort tonight after today was a bit tiring and emotional.” Demelza offered.

Just then a server came by with a tray of champagne flutes, which the four friends gladly took part in.

“Why, what happened today? And why were you not going to come tonight?” Caroline asked

Demelza looked at Ross, letting him decide whether or not to bring up his mother’s health. Ross looked down, and then sighed. “Um, we can talk about that later on this weekend. Buuut, Demelza had her first driving lesson today!”

Dwight and Caroline gave a shocked, “What!?” Demelza stuck her tongue out at Ross, but she knew that he was just changing the subject.

“How did you do?” Dwight asked.

“It was bloody awful! Ross is lucky that I haven’t killed him yet!” Demelza said.

“Oh she didn't do too bad once she got the hang of it. But just let me tell you Dwight about our darling, sweet Demelza! She has the mouth of a sailor! I couldn’t believe how my sweet and innocent Demelza turned into Cruella Deville once she got behind the wheel. Uh huh, it’s true my friend.” Ross was really getting into telling the story.

Dwight’s eyebrows raised, “Really! I can’t believe it! I’m just shocked!”

“Yes Ross, how did you manage the impossible? I’ve been trying for years to get her to take driving lessons,” Caroline added.

The lights in the hall dimmed and the DJ started to play music to get the night kicked off. Pretty soon Norah Jones was being heard in the ballroom.

“Oh you three are just so funny! Just for that Ross Poldark, you owe me a dance right now!” She grabbed Ross’s champagne flute and set it down with hers and dragged him onto the dance floor.

Caroline raised an eyebrow at Dwight and cleared her throat. Dwight knew that was his cue, “Would you like to dance my darling?”

“Why, I would love to. Thank you for asking, my love!” Then Dwight led her out onto the dance floor.

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

Ross was holding Demelza in a standard hold for lovers dancing, his left hand holding her right hand to his chest, and his right hand on her waist, while Demelza was softly running her fingers through the hair at the back of his neck. Demelza was almost the same height as Ross with her heels on so there was definitely some sweet nothings being whispered in ears, and noses rubbing. Despite his earlier protests, Ross was very much enjoying holding Demelza close like this and dancing. He didn’t really mind dancing like this with his love. It was the waltzes and foxtrots that he learned while growing up with Verity that he really didn’t care for. It was standard for the children of upper society families to take dancing lessons so that they could hold their own at debutante balls, etc. So he was always roped in by Verity to be her partner at various dance lessons.

Another slow song came on next. “Oh, I love this song,” Demelza said.

“Really?” Ross said. “I don’t know if I’ve heard it before? What is it?”

“Really, you don’t know it? It’s ‘I Am Yours’ by Andry Grammar. It’s just so sweet.”

Ross noticed that Demelza’s eyes were shiny with tears, and he couldn’t help but bring her even closer to him, and kiss her so lovingly, even if it was on the dance floor in front of a hoard of people. Then he spoke, “Well, then I guess this makes it our song.” This made the tears run down her cheeks slowly. “Oh my love, you don’t need to cry. I’m here for you and I will always be here for you.”

“No matr wha’ ‘appens,” Demelza said.

Ross smiled at her Cornish accent coming out, “No matter what happens, my beautiful sweet Demelza.” And he kissed her again.

Caroline was watching her best friend, “Aww Demelza is crying,” she whispered to Dwight. “Happy tears I hope,” he responded back. “Oh Dr. Enys I think they are.” Carolinie looked at Dwight and they shared a soft kiss as well.

But what Caroline didn’t realise is that they weren’t the only ones watching Ross and Demelza share a tender moment on the dance floor. One of the servers working for the catering service was observing the couple and had a pensive look on his face. In another corner of the ball room, Elizabeth and Ruth Teague were both scowling at Ross and Demelza in confusion. Ruth finally spoke up, “That is not Ross’s secretary that he took home that one night.”

Elizabeth snapped her head at Ruth, “Well obviously not! Who is that hideous creature?!”

“I have no idea Elizabeth, but whoever she is, they certainly look smitten with each other,” said Ruth.

Francis walked over with three champagne flutes. “Well, what has the two of you craning your necks over?” Francis stated to the two women.

Elizabeth flashed him a dirty look, “We were wondering who it is that Ross is dancing with.”

“Ross? I didn’t know he was going to be here tonight. Wow. Well, they’re obviously in love. I think they make a great looking couple.” Francis added to the misery that Elizabeth was feeling.

“Well, I don’t!” Elizabeth hissed at her husband. Francis thought for a moment that his wife’s head spun around 360 degrees!

“Well, whoever she is, it’s Ross’s business, not ours. Would you care to dance my dear wife?” Francis asked.

“Shut up Francis. Just shut up!” Elizabeth was practically spitting glass now. Francis did a mock bow to his wife and turned around and left the two vipers to themselves.

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

The song had ended but apparently Ross and Demelza were oblivious to everyone else, until Dwight interrupted their bliss.

“Oi! Mate! The music stopped!”

Ross pulled away from Demelza, “Oh I guess it has.”

“Let’s go find some food. Caroline is playing hostess and I’m starving. She wouldn’t let me snitch a small bite to eat before the party.”

“Sounds good. I’m starving too. Lead on Dwight!” Demelza said.

They headed into the dining room where a large buffet was set up, with servers dishing out the food. On the other side were round tablets for people to sit down and enjoy their food. The three friends didn’t waste time getting in line at the buffet. Everything looked delicious, and there was something for everyone. On the end was a carving station with a large carving roast beef being served.

“Oh gosh, I shouldn’t have worn white tonight. I just know that I’ll drip something on me and leave a big stain right in front. I’m going to have to avoid anything with red sauce in it.” Demelza complained.

Ross smiled at Demelza’s quandary. “We just can’t take you anywhere Demelza!” Dwight thought this was funny as they advanced in the line.

“Hello Demelza.” They all three heard the unfamiliar voice and looked up at the red headed server that said Mo Demelza’s name. Ross heard a gasp from Demelza, and then the next thing he heard was the crashing sound of Demelza’s plate that she dropped on the floor. Demelza’s face was white as a sheet. Ross quickly set his plate down so that he could catch Demelza to keep her from falling. “My God Demelza! Honey, what’s the matter? Are you ill.” He looked at the server, then back at Demelza, and then yelled for Dwight.

“Ross, bring her over here to this table and sit her down,” Dwight ordered. “Can someone please get us a glass of water, and a cold compress or a wet dish towel. Hurry!” The doctor ordered. “Demelza please, let me have a look at you.” He felt her pulse, which was racing. Her pupils seemed normal. She was breathing erratically. “Demelza do you feel dizzy?” She shook her head even though it felt very heavy. “Demelza you’re hyperventilating, try putting your head between your legs. Maybe that will help.” Dwight told her.

Ross looked at Dwight, “What is wrong with her Dwight? Should we take her to hospital?”

“Let’s just give her a moment and see how she does.” Just then a server came over with a glass of water and a wet dish towel. “Okay Demelza, Try sitting up very slowly. We don’t want you to get dizzy again and pass out. Can you drink some water?” Ross grabbed one of her arms to help her sit back up and gave her the water to drink. He bent down in front of her to help her hold the glass since her hands were shaking. “Demelza, can you tell us what happened? What made you pass out like that?” Ross asked her.

Demelza took a minute and looked around at the buffet line that was being cleaned up from the broken glass. Her head was swimming. So many thoughts going through her mind. She noticed everyone standing around staring at her, but Demelza didn’t see the red headed server anymore. Had he really been there or had her mind just play tricks on her? She was mumbling something but Dwight and Ross couldn’t make out what she was saying.

“Everyone is staring at me,” Demelza whispered.

Ross looked at Dwight, “Is there somewhere else we can take her?”

“Of course, follow me to Mr. Penvenan’s study,” Dwight replied. Ross helped Demelza stand up and they took a back way out of the dining hall into Caroline’s uncle’s study. Dwight led Demelza over to the sofa in the room, “Demelza why don’t you lay down for a minute until you feel better.” Dwight took her pulse again and it was still fast.

Ray Penvenan’s manservant came into the room, “Can I be of service Dr. Enys?”

“Norman, yes. Can you get my doctor’s bag from my bedroom and a wet washcloth and a dry towel and bring it down to us please? Thank you, Norman,” Dwight instructed the gentleman.

“Certainly sir,” answered Norman.

Ross sat next to Demelza and held her hand, “Demelza you look so pale. Do you feel nauseous? Are you dizzy?”

“Um, I'm not sure. No, I just feel a little shaky,” she said.

“Were you feeling ill before you arrived at the party?” Dwight asked.

“No, I felt fine,” Demelza replied.

“She didn’t seem sick at all before we arrived. She was fine in the car ride over. Although it has been a bit of an emotional day at Nampara.” Ross recalled.

Dwight gave Ross a questioning look at the comment. Just then Norman arrived with the things that Dwight asked for. Dwight immediately took Demelza’s blood pressure. “Well, your blood pressure is fine. Maybe you just need something to eat. Your sugar might have dropped. Do you think you can sit up alright?” Dwight asked.

“Yes, I think so. I’m so embarrassed at the scene I caused.”

Caroline entered the room in a frantic, “Demelza, what happened? Someone said that you fainted! Dwight, examine her.”

“I did my love. Her blood pressure is fine, her pulse is a little fast, but I think maybe her sugar dropped on her and she just needs to eat something. Do you want this wet cloth on your forehead, Demelza?” Dwight asked.

“No, I’m feeling better. I’m…really sorry. I don’t know what happened. I thought that I saw someone that I used to know,” explained Demelza. “But I… I didn’t see him when I looked again. Maybe it was just my imagination.”

She started to shake so Ross put his suit coat on her. “Demelza, who did you think you saw?” Ross asked.

“Mm my brother, Luke,” Demelza said.

“What? Are you sure? He was here at the party?” Ross asked.

“Well, as a server. I think he was one of the servers in the buffet line. He has red hair like mine. Maybe it was just the hair that tricked me. I haven’t seen him in years.” She recalled.

“Demelza, do you want me to talk with the caterers about him? Surely they would know everyone that they employ.” Caroline asked.

“No, don’t do that. If it is him, I don’t want him to get in trouble and lose his job. Caroline, you and Dwight should go back to your party and your guests. I’m fine, really. I’ll come back out in a little bit,” Demelza responded.

“You should get something to eat Demelza. I think that would help you feel better.” Dwight told her.

“I’ll make sure she eats Dwight. Don’t worry, I’ll take care of her.” Ross said.

Caroline and Dwight left the couple alone. Demelza leaned over and covered her face in her hands. “I’m so sorry Ross. I’m so embarrassed. All of those people were staring at me. I’ve ruined your evening.” Demelza was trying hard not to cry.

“Don’t be foolish, you haven’t ruined anything. And there’s definitely nothing to be embarrassed about. If you feel up to it, let’s go back out and get something to eat, then we’ll make our rounds around the room, and then we can go. Does that sound good?” Ross asked his girlfriend.

Demelza shook her head yes and stood up so they could head back into the dining room.

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

Ross and Demelza were sitting in the dining room eating, Ross keeping an eye on his love. He had one hand on Demelza’s hand, while eating with the other.

“Ross. I wasn’t expecting to see you here.” Ross put his fork down and turned in the direction of the familiar voice. He saw his cousin Francis standing behind him with a grin on his face. “Nor I you cousin.” Ross answered back in a cold voice. Francis was standing with his hand held out waiting to shake hands with Ross, so Ross stood up and reluctantly shook hands with his cousin. He then noticed that Elizabeth was on his arm, with Ruth Teague standing next to her. He thought to himself that the three of them looked like vultures sitting on a fence.

“Hello Ross. I’m so glad to see you.” Elizabeth said with a porcelain smile on her face. Ross thought to himself that he wondered if she’d had plastic surgery already.

He nodded his head, “Elizabeth, Ruth.”

“And who do we have here Ross?” Francis asked about Demelza.

“Demelza, love, please meet my cousin Francis, Verity’s brother, and his wife Elizabeth and their friend Ruth Teague.” Ross was trying his best not to grit his teeth.

Demelza stood up to shake hands with Francis. “It’s nice to meet you, Francis, Elizabeth.. Did Verity come with you?” Demelza asked since that was the only thing she could think of to say.

“Oh no, she had other plans tonight I’m afraid. Ross, I didn’t know that you had ties with the Penvenans.” Francis asked.

Ross placed his hand on the small of Demelza’s back, “Well actually, Caroline and Demelza are old friends from university.” Elizabeth gave Ruth a side eye at Ross’s comment.

Ruth spoke up, “Oh that’s where I remember you from. I was in university with Caroline as well, although I don’t remember you socialising in the same circles as us.”

“Oh I definitely remember you Ruth. Weren’t you the one who was caught snogging with Professor Despard?” Demelza was trying not to sound too catty but she just couldn’t help herself. Although she did get a smile from Ross at this.

“I don’t recall such an incident.” Ruth said.

“Demelza there you are! I’ve been looking all over for you,” Caroline came to the rescue and wrapped her arm around Demelza’s like the friends always did. “Francis, Elizabeth, I see that you’ve met my roommate. Well, she was my roommate until Ross convinced her to move in with him. Ruth, I didn’t realise that you were to be here tonight.” Ross couldn’t help but smile at the looks on Elizabeth and Ruth’s faces.

“Well Ross, I’m very happy for you. The two of you make a lovely couple.” Francis added.

“Thank you Francis. Now if you’ll excuse us, I owe Demelza another dance.” And with that, Ross took Demelza’s hand, kissed it, and they headed to the dance floor.

“Oh Ruth, do close your mouth before you catch a fly.” Caroline said.

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

“Are you feeling better, my love?” Ross asked during another slow dance.

“Yes, thank you. I just wish I knew for sure whether or not that was my brother.”

“Well, we could ask around for him if you’d like.” Ross said

“I don’t know. Part of me wants to know and part of me doesn’t. But, wait… now I remember. He said my name. He said ‘Hello Demelza’. Demelza remembered.

“Now that you mention it, I do remember someone saying your name. I think that caused me to look up in the direction that it was coming from.” Ross said.

“Oh I’m glad that you heard it too. I was beginning to think that I was imagining it. That’s what got my attention when I was getting some food. He said ‘Hello Demelza’ and I looked up to see who said my name, and it was him, my brother, Luke. Oh Lord Ross. What if he still lives with da, and goes home and tells him that he saw me here tonight!” Demelza was worried now.

“Calm down. Look, the only way to know for sure is to ask about him. After this dance, let’s go back in that dining room and ask someone, one of the other servers.” He could feel Demelza tense up in his arms.

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

Demelza and Ross were explaining everything to Caroline about what they suspected when the partners of Ross’s firm interrupted their conversation. Caroline assured Demelza that she would go question the caterer.

“Gentlemen, so nice to see you outside of the office,” Ross said while shaking the hands of Harris Pascoe and Richard Tonkin.

“Yes, Ray Penvenan sure knows how to put on a display. Very festive. I assume that you’ve known the Penvenans through your parents,” Harris Pascoe said.

“Well, actually I know them more through my girlfriend who went to University with Caroline Penvenan, and were roommates in London. Harris, Richard, let me introduce you to my girlfriend Demelza Carne.” Ross had a proud smile on his face as he watched Demelza hold her own shaking the gentlemen's hands.

“It’s so very nice to meet you finally. Ross has told me so much about the both of you, and how much he loves working at the company.” Demelza had put on her best face, while wondering at the same time what Caroline was finding out.

“Very nice to meet you as well, Demelza. Ross has told us so much about you and your career at the BBC Orchestra,” Richard Tonkin said.

“Oh yes indeed,” added Harris Pascoe. “My wife and I often attend the concerts so I’m sure we’ve seen you play. How long have you been playing the cello?”

“Since 9th grade. We actually just received word that this spring we will be recording an album so we have a lot of work ahead of us to get ready. You should let Ross know whenever you go to a concert and we can meet for drinks afterwards.” Demelza was trying her best to be the perfect girlfriend for Ross in this situation. A situation that she’s never really found herself in before.

“Oh yes, that would be lovely. I’m sure my wife really would enjoy that. Richard, you should come along as well with your wife and we could make an outing out of it.” Harris said.

“Well, Vera is always saying that I don’t take her out to many events with culture, so a BBC concert would check that box for a while. Speaking of wives, Harris, I think ours are signalling us that it’s time to leave. Ross, see you at the office. Demelza, it was wonderful to meet you. You keep our Ross in line. No more foot surgeries! Happy New Year to you both.” Richard shook Ross’s hand and nodded his head to Demelza as he went to go meet his wife.

Harris was shaking Ross’s hand as well, “Take care Ross. You as well Demelza.” Harris scurried off to his wife as well.

Ross pulled Demelza in for a hug, “Thank you for doing that. I know you had your mind on something else.”

“No need to thank me Ross. I was just trying to be the dutiful partner for you. They seem very nice.”

“Oh yes, they are. They are my favourites out of the partners. Since they’re from Cornwall, we get along beautifully. Shall we go find Caroline?” Ross asked.

“Oh yes please, if you don’t mind.” Demelza said. Ross took Demelza’s hand in his and they headed for the dining room. They found Caroline on their way.

Caroline had a serious look on her face when she approached her friends. “I was just coming to find you. I found him, the red headed server. Demelza, his name is Luke. He’s waiting for you in my Uncle’s study.”

Demelza put one of her hands on her stomach like she’d just been kicked. Ross and Caroline looked at each other, then looked at Demelza again.

Ross asked, “Are you up for this Demelza?”

“Not really, but what choice do I have? Will you go with me Ross?” she asked.

“Of course, love. I’ll be right by your side. I won’t leave unless you ask me to.” Ross saw an expression on Demelza’s face that he didn’t recognize. It was as if she became a different person right before his eyes and it worried him. Her rosy cheeks had lost their colour and her skin was almost grey. Her beautiful blue eyes had an empty hollow look to them. There wasn’t a cheery smile, or a mischievous grin, just a slight sag of her face from the weight of the past.

The concerned Ross asked, “Demelza, what if I were to go meet your brother and convey your thoughts to him. You don’t need to put yourself through this. You can sit somewhere alone.”

“That’s a very kind thought Ross, but I think I should see him as well. I don’t want him to think that I’m too good to see him or talk to him. Let’s just go and get it over with and then go back to Nampara.” She placed her hand on Ross’s face, letting Ross take it and kiss her palm and lead her into the study.

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

Ross had his arm around Demelza’s waist as they walked into the Penvenan study. They saw a gentleman dressed in all black with long red hair that was pulled back into a manbun, looking out the window. His back towards the couple. He heard footsteps behind him. He could feel his heart beat quicker the closer the couple got to him. Finally he turned around. Demelza let out a small gasp and put her hand to her mouth. Ross was studying the face of the man standing in front of him. It was like he was looking at a male version of Demelza. Ross gently squeezed her waist to remind her that he was there for her.

“It is you,” Demelza whispered.

“Hello sister,” the man said.

“Hello Luke,” Demelza said.

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

I Am Yours by Andry Grammar https://youtu.be/qOAiw54saOw

#aidan turner #modernpoldark #six sentence sunday #work in progress #eleanor tomlinson #demelza carne #ross poldark #poldark #demelza poldark

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anglophiletraveler · 2 years

Text

In My Life - Chapter 14

CHAPTER 14

Act Naturally

Written by Morrison-Russell

It took me a while to figure out a song for this chapter. There’s a lot going on with different people and different situations. Dwight finds himself in a couple of awkward situations and really just wants to get the heck outta there!! I had forgotten that the Beatles had recorded this song. I knew it originally by country-western singer Buck Owens. This was on the Beatles ‘Help’ Album and it was sung by Ringo Starr, which sounds like something he would do!

A big thank you to Jersey Girl Karen Bockius for proofreading and being my beta!

It was strange for Dwight to be on this end of things. He wasn’t used to sitting in a waiting room while someone he cares for is in surgery. He kept busy texting updates to everyone, Grace, Jenny, Demelza, Caroline. The volunteer working the waiting room chatted with him off and on and served him coffee, which was a good thing. He now realised that being the one doing the waiting can tire a person out. He found a new appreciation for the family members in the A&E who waited with their loved ones to be seen, or for test results. He figured that Ross had probably another 45 minutes before the surgery would be over and he would be sent to post-op. Hopefully by then his family will be here. He was thinking about the mess in Ross’s bedroom - he should get there before anyone else sees it and get it cleaned up. Hopefully the bed linens aren’t stained too badly. He needs to let Seamus out after he gets the blood cleaned up downstairs.

“Dwight!”

Dwight jumped out of the chair to hug Grace. He looked up and saw Joshua there as well and reached out to shake hands with him. “Joshua, it’s good to see you. Sorry it’s under these circumstances.” Just then Verity came from behind Joshua. “Verity!” He gave her a kiss on the cheek, “I didn’t know you were coming as well. Please, everyone come over and sit. Can I get you anything?”

“Oh no Dwight, just tell us how Ross is doing. I’ve been worried to death.” Spoken like a true mother.

“I’m sure he’s doing fine. I expect the surgeon to come out shortly to give us a report.” He looked at Joshua, “How was the drive up? It looks like you made good time. The snow must not have slowed you down.”

Joshua had helped himself to some coffee, “No it was fine, we made good time. Grace wouldn’t let me stop once along the way.”

“Well, I’m just glad that we made it here before he got out of surgery.” Grace said. “So Dwight, can you tell us again what happened please … you said he stepped on a piece of broken glass? What broke?”

Dwight didn’t want to tell them what Ross had said about throwing a bottle, so he just said that Ross had knocked a bottle over. “The house is a mess because he lost a lot of blood. And he walked all over the place because Seamus needed to go out, so there are bloody footprints downstairs, and his bathroom upstairs looks like something out of a slasher movie. When things settle down here, I’m going to go back and take care of Seamus and clean things up.”

Verity spoke up, “Dwight you don’t need to do that. You’ve done enough. I’ll go over later and clean it up.”

“No Verity I really don’t mind. And Seamus is used to me so, it’ll be fine.”

“Dwight, Ross sounded a little shaky on the phone before he went in. Was that from the pain medication?” Grace asked.

“Oh yeah, if someone isn’t used to that stuff it can do you in. So, I guess this means the three of you will get to meet Demelza!” Dwight remembered how teary Ross was from talking to Demelza, and decided to try to change the subject.

“Oh yes! Verity and I were saying on the ride up that if anything good came out of this, it was that we were going to get to meet Demelza! She sounds like a lovely girl. So I take it that you’ve met her Dwight?”

Dwight had noticed that Joshua was ensconced with the news on the telly.

“Oh yes, I’m seeing Demelza’s flatmate Caroline Penvenan, so we’ve all gone out together. Demelza is a lovely girl. And very talented. You’ll like her.”

The volunteer came over to talk with Dwight. Apparently the surgery was over and she gave him instructions on where they should go to meet with the surgeon. “If you want, you can leave those things here, and I’ll keep watch on them for you while you talk with the surgeon.”

All three Poldarks had stood up to go to meet the doctor. Dwight said, “I can stay here if you’d like while you speak with the doctor.”

Joshua spoke up and put his hand on Dwight’s shoulder, “No, Dwight, I think you should come along and help decipher medical jargon for us. Besides, you’re part of the family.”

Dwight nodded at Joshua.

*****

Dr. Stevenson greeted the family in the very small consultation room. Dwight introduced himself to the doctor, and then introduced him to Ross’s family. “It’s nice to meet all of you. The surgery went very well. The laceration is on the lateral side of the foot, about 6.5 cm wide. He did nick the lateral plantar artery which is why there was so much blood. We took care of the artery and stopped the bleeding. The muscle was a little trickier but we were able to repair it.

“What about the toe?” Dwight asked.

“I think it’ll be alright. He might have some loss of feeling in it but it shouldn’t be a problem. He will need to spend at least tonight in the hospital. As far as tomorrow goes, we’ll just have to wait. I’ll be monitoring his labs in case he needs another transfusion. If his labs are good, then he can go home tomorrow. But he will have to be non-weight bearing for six weeks. I don’t know what his living situation is like, but if he can, he needs to avoid stairs. We’ll get him some crutches before he goes home. Any questions? He should be moved to a room within an hour I would say. If you think of any questions, I’m sure that Dr. Enys here, or the nurses on the floor can help you out. It was nice to meet all of you.”

Joshua got up to shake hands, “Thank you very much doctor, we appreciate everything.”

“My pleasure.”

*****

The family was back in the waiting room until it was time to meet Ross in his room. Dwight was looking at his watch and wondered what was keeping Demelza and Caroline. He didn’t want to leave until they got there so that he could make the introductions.

Grace looked up at Dwight, “Well, he was very nice, very personable.”

Dwight smiled at her, “Yes he was. Did you folks understand everything he said? It was pretty cut and dry.”

“Yes, he didn’t get too technical for us. Although I don’t think Ross is going to like being non-weight bearing for six weeks. He should probably sleep downstairs.” Grace was planning everything in her mind. “Verity, maybe you and I could take turns staying with him, or better yet, we could take him back with us to Nampara for six weeks.”

Verity spoke up, “I wouldn’t mind taking turns staying with him. I don’t know if he would want to go back to Nampara for the whole time, do you Dwight?”

“My guess would be that he would prefer to be in his own home, he’d be more comfortable there I think. It’s closer to his office …”

Grace interrupted, “Well he won’t be able to go into work will he? Not while he’s non-weight bearing.”

“Probably not, but I know he’s working on an important acquisition right now, so I’m sure as soon as he gets his bearings he will be working at home as much as possible.” Dwight was starting to get really antsy. He was starting to feel he might be caught in the middle between Ross’s folks and Demelza. He also didn’t want to have to be the one to tell his mum that Ross wouldn’t want to go to Nampara and be that far from Demelza. “I’m going to go see where things are with Ross getting to his room. I’ll be right back.” He walked over to the volunteer desk to see if he could get things moving along. The volunteer made a phone call which brought some relief.

“Transportation said that they were just called to go pick up Mr. Poldark from recovery and take him to his room. So you can go up and meet him in his room if you’d like. He’s going to room 5321.”

Dwight let out a big sigh and gave her a big smile, “Thank you so very much. You’ve been very helpful. I’ll tell his family.”

*******

The Poldark entourage caravaned up to room 5321 to … wait some more! Dwight was really feeling exhausted by now, and would give anything to be in scrubs seeing drunk patients in the A&E.

Verity cleared her throat, “Dwight, can you show me where the loo is?”

Dwight waved his hand, “I’m at your service milady!” Verity giggled at this. They walked a ways down the hallway and Verity stopped him at the chapel.

“Dwight, I don’t need the loo, I just wanted to chat with you in private, away from Grace.”

“Ahhh, go on. What is it that you’re dying to find out?”

“Ross’s home. Is it really a mess from the blood?”

Dwight sighed and shook his head. “Yes. The downstairs isn’t as bad - just some bloody footprints on the stairs and in the kitchen from when he let Seamus out. But upstairs in his bedroom and bathroom it’s pretty bad. I’ve been worried that it might upset Grace. I’ve been trying to figure out a way to get back there and get it cleaned up before Grace sees it. But I don’t want to leave before Demelza gets here. I would hate for her to be alone when she meets Grace and Joshua, not that they are terrible people mind you. I just think it could be a bit …”

“Intimidating to meet all of us under these circumstances. I totally understand that.”

“Exactly. And Ross hasn’t told her about Elizabeth or Claude yet, so it’s important that there aren’t any slip ups.”

“The whole thing about knocking over the bottle sounds strange to me. Was Ross drunk?”

“No, that’s another thing. He threw the bottle at the bedroom wall.”

“What??? That doesn’t sound like Ross?”

“I know but, last night I had dinner with him at the pub and I could tell he was a little out of sorts. You know how his dating history has gone over the years, one night stands right after Elizabeth, and then breaking up with women if they start to get too close. Demelza is a really sweet person, and she’s had a hell of a life. Her mum died when she was young, her father beat her… I think I upset him when I told him not to hurt her. Earlier today when we were still in the A&E he told me that after he got home last night, he called his mum and began realising that he hadn’t ever brought a woman home since Elizabeth. We didn’t get to finish our talk so I don’t know what else was said, but I think it definitely triggered something in him. He was pretty emotional, Verity. I’m pretty worried about him.”

“Buggars Dwight! Now I’m worried about him. Listen, I’ll go help you clean up the house. The blood won’t bother me. We will get it done quicker that way. Can you nab some gloves from here before we go?”

“Of course! No problem there. And thank you in advance….” Just then Dwight saw the transporters pushing Ross towards his room on a stretcher. “Oh, there’s Ross, we better get back to the room.”

“Of course. Thank you for confiding in me Dwight. I had a feeling something was going on.”

*******

Grace and Joshua were out in the hall letting the transporters and nurses get Ross settled in his bed and the IV’s untangled when Dwight and Verity got back to the room.

One of the transporters came out in the hallway, “Hiya doc, they are wantin t’ see ye in ther.”

“Thanks Dave.” Dwight went in and chatted with the nurse and tried to act like she was telling him something important, then he went to Ross.

“Hey! You’re alive!!”

“I guess so. I saw my parents and Verity are here. Thanks for babysitting them for me.”

Dwight smiled, “That’s what I’m here for!”

“Have they been to the house?”

“No, they came straight here. And don’t worry I haven’t told Grace and Joshua a thing, although Verity cornered me a little bit ago and interrogated me. She’s going to go back to the house and help me clean it up.”

“Dammit. I don’t mind her knowing, but I hate that the two of you are going to clean it up. Is Demelza here yet?”

“No, she is not, but as soon as she gets here and I can make the introductions, I’m going to take off and take care of Seamus and the house. I’ll probably take him back to mine tonight.”

“You’re brilliant mate. I love you like a brother. She should be here soon.”

“Yeah, I love you too. I better let your parents in here before they storm the village!” He went to the door to tell them to come in.

Of course Grace was the first to kiss and hug her son like the wonderful mama bear that she is. “Oh my handsome! I don’t know whether to hug you or shake you for doing such a silly thing like stepping on broken glass!! How are you feeling?”

Joshua was finally able to get his kiss and hug in, “How are you feeling son? Still groggy?”

“Yeah, yeah a bit. Verity I wasn’t expecting to see you. Did Mum drag you along to get some shopping in?”

“No, I wanted to come along and meet this beautiful woman that has cast a spell on you! I should give you an enema for not ringing me up about her sooner!” That got a laugh out of everyone.

“Da, did you have a hard time driving up in the snow?”

“No, not at all. But you city folk have a lot more up here than we do.”

There was a knock at the door and then it opened slowly. A beautiful head of copper hair was peaking through the door, and Dwight hurried over to open the door. “Demelza! Come in, you’re in the right place!” Dwight gave her a reassuring hug.

“Judas! This hospital is a big place. I kept getting turned around in the halls.” Dwight placed his hand on the small of her back for reassurance and guided her in. She found herself looking at three pairs of eyes staring back at her. They definitely looked like they were related to Ross with their dark eyes and hair. Ross seemed to favour his father. They were all standing in front of Ross’s bed, so she didn’t even know if Ross was in the room. She looked up at Dwight, “Dwight, is Ross out of surgery yet?” Then she heard Ross’s voice, “Demelza, I’m here!” She was relieved to hear him!

Verity stepped back so that Demelza could see Ross, “My dear, please excuse our rudeness, I’m Verity, Ross’s cousin. It’s lovely to meet you.”

“Likewise.” She noticed Ross holding out his arms for her so she made her way to his bedside. She wasn’t sure if it was proper to kiss him or hug him in front of his family, but she couldn’t help herself. “Oh Ross! I’m that glad t’ see ye! I been that worried all day.” She couldn’t help the tears as she leaned down for a hug. Ross grabbed one of her hands with one hand, and then lovingly tucked a run away strand of hair behind her ear with his other hand. She stood up and Grace handed her some tissues. “Thank ye. I'm so sorry for cryin.”

“No apology necessary my dear,” Grace spoke in a soft voice.

Dwight stepped forward, “Well, since Ross has forgotten his manners, Demelza, this is Ross’s parents Joshua and Grace Poldark.”

They all reached over Ross to shake hands, Joshua went first. “Hello luv, it’s wonderful to meet you. I’d like to say that I’ve heard a lot about you, but I haven’t until yesterday.”

That made Demelza chuckle and she raised her hands and said “Surprise!” which eased the tension in the room.

It was time for mama bear to shake hands, “Hello Demelza. And I can say I have heard a lot about you and they’ve all been wonderful things.”

“Oh Judas! Thank you. It’s wonderful to meet you as well.” She turned her attention to Ross, “How are ye feelin, Ross? Ye look awfully pale.” Ross could see that she was trembling a little, so he moved to hold both of her hands.

“I’m fine. I guess I lost a lot of blood so that’s why I’m pale. But I’m ready to go home now, Dwight, can you write up my discharge papers?”

“No can do mate. You’re here for at least tonight and possibly tomorrow night as well depending on how your lab work goes.” He could see that Demelza didn’t understand, “Ross’s Hgb - his haemoglobin, was in the grey area so they had to do a blood transfusion in the A&E before surgery. If that value stays the same or gets worse, they will probably transfuse him with another unit of blood. But if it gets better, he can go home tomorrow. By the way, where’s Caroline?”

“Oh she dropped me off at the front door and then went to find a parking space. She should be up shortly.”

“Right, well after she gets up here, Verity and I are going to go back to Ross’s and take care of Seamus, and clean up the blood everywhere.”

Demelza said, “I can help you do that.”

Verity spoke up, “No, my dear, you stay here and visit with Ross. Besides, you're probably tired after working all day.”

Just then the door came flying open, “Dr. Enys, are you in here?”

Ross started cracking up, “Well now you get to meet Hurricane Caroline!!”

“I heard that Ross Poldark!”

Everyone turned their heads to lay their eyes on Caroline, as she flicked some of her blonde hair back. Ross was still laughing, “That’s quite an entrance Caroline! Mum, da, Verity, please meet Dwight’s girlfriend, and one of Demelza’s flat mates, Caroline Penvenan. Caroline, these are my parents Joshua and Grace Poldark, and my cousin Verity Poldark.”

“Hello everyone, it’s lovely to meet you all. Please excuse my tardiness. I had words with a parking attendant who was trying to prevent me from parking where I wanted. Dwight, your hospital really needs to do a better job ploughing the snow in the parking lots.”

Dwight cleared his throat, “I’ll be sure to pass that along. But now that you’re here, I need to leave and go take care of Seamus and Ross’s house.”

“Dwight, I was just thinking, my brother Drake, that works at the dry cleaners, might know of someone who could go into Ross’s house and professionally clean up the blood. Would you like me to text him and see?”

Grace spoke up, “Demelza that sounds wonderful, but it would have to be tonight, especially if Ross goes home tomorrow.”

“I’ll text him and see what he can do.”

Joshua moved around Verity so that he could speak with Caroline. “Caroline, by any chance do you have family in Cornwall?”

“Yes, my Uncle Ray Penvenan lives on the family estate, Killewarren. Do you know him?”

“Yes, of course we do. We’ve been dear friends for years. I think we may have even seen you flitting around as a young lass with blonde curls at some of his parties.”

“That was me! I gave up the curls at Uni. I just went back to take care of him a couple of weeks ago when he had a bad spell with his heart.”

“Yes, I had heard that he wasn’t feeling well. I’ll have to go visit him and let him know that we met his beautiful niece.”

Grace was noticing how Ross was looking at Demelza, and caressing her hand while he was holding it. She was very touched by the scene.

“Alright, Drake said that after he closes up shop around 7:00, he and another worker can go over and steam clean. They have all of the equipment at the store to do the job. If there’s blood on any fabric he can work on that as well.”

“Oh Demelza, that will be a big help. Be sure to tell him to leave the bill at the house and we’ll take care of it. That’s one less thing to be worried about.” Grace said. “Now Ross, the doctor said that you have to be non-weight bearing for six weeks. I want you to think about going back with us to Nampara so that I can look after you there. You can bring Seamus with you.”

Ross’s eyes widened at this development.

“Mum, I appreciate the offer, but I need to stay here and work as much as possible. Plus, I don’t want to leave Demelza that long. I’ll be fine on my own. I don’t need a babysitter.”

Mama Bear was determined, “But Ross, you have to be non-weight bearing for six weeks. You won’t be able to sleep upstairs. I suppose Verity and I can take turns staying with you …”

Demelza spoke up, “I can stay with Ross, I don’t mind.”

“But don’t you work during the day?” Grace mentioned.

“Daytime rehearsals are just for this week, and then we go to our Christmas concert schedule.”

Just then a nurse came in, “Hello Mr. Poldark. My name is Philipa, and I’ll be your nurse until 7 pm when the next shift comes in. Dr. Stevenson has ordered another unit of blood for you since your last haemoglobin hasn’t improved. Now I saw in your chart that you received blood this morning in the A&E so your blood bracelet should still be good. You’ll have to sign all of the paperwork again, and like before, I will be checking on you every 15 minutes to check for signs of allergic reaction. Any questions?”

“No, I think I remember how it went this morning. And please, call me Ross.”

“Sounds good. I’ve just sent the runner to go collect the blood for us, so as soon as it gets up here, I’ll have you sign the paperwork and I’ll start the transfusion. So I’ll see you in a few.”

“I’m going to go ahead to Ross’s place and take care of Seamus and let the cleaners in. Ross, I probably won’t be back tonight, but call me if you need me. Verity you don’t need to come with me since there are going to be cleaners.” He took Caroline’s hand, “I’ll call you tonight if I don’t fall asleep watching TV.” Dwight was more than ready to leave the hospital.

“Thanks mate. Give Seamus a hug for me. Do you still have my mobile?”

“Here ya go mate. But I’m afraid it’s dead and I don’t have the charger for it.”

Demelza spoke up, “I have my charger with me. Let’s see if it fits… thanks for everything Dwight.”

Everyone else said their good-byes to Dwight as he left. Demelza made herself more comfortable on the chair next to Ross when Joshua made a suggestion to everyone.

“How about we all leave for a bit and walk across the street to one of the restaurants for some supper while the nurse works with Ross and his transfusion?”

“I think that sounds like a marvellous idea.” Caroline said.

“I appreciate the offer Mr. Poldark, but I think I’ll stay here with Ross.” She turned to smile at Ross. He raised her hand and kissed it which made Demelza blush in front of his family. “I think that sounds like a brilliant idea.” He said.

“Don’t worry Dem, I’ll bring back something for you to eat.” Caroline said as she tried to herd the Poldarks out of the room. Ross mouthed ‘thank you’ at Caroline which got a smile from her.

*****

Ross let out a big sigh, “I thought they’d never leave!! Now come here beautiful and kiss me!” Demelza giggled and did just that. “Is this still Tuesday? I’m so confused right now.”

Demelza was running her fingers through his hair, “Mmmm yes it is. It’s been a very long day.” She leaned over to give him another lingering kiss which elicited a moan from Ross. They were both staring into each other’s eyes when Ross got a devilish grin on his face. “What are you thinking about, Ross Poldark?”

He was biting his bottom lip when he pulled back his covers and patted the mattress beside him.

Demelza got a shocked look on her face which tickled Ross. “Ross! We can’t, I can’t do that! Tis not proper!!”

This really got Ross laughing, “Bloody hell I love it when you slip into your Cornish accent. It’s so adorable! Sooo Demelza…”

“Hello I’m back to hang this unit of blood! Sorry to interrupt but it takes awhile to infuse, so it’s best that we get it started.”

Demelza stood up, “Do you need me to leave the room?”

“Oh no. I’m actually going to work on his right arm since he has an IV going in the left arm. So you can stay right there. Everyone else gone for supper?”

Ross raised the head of his bed up some more. “Yes, they did. I thought they would never leave!! I’ve had about all the mothering I can handle for one day. Besides, I needed some alone time with my beautiful red head here.” He kissed Demelza’s hand again.

“Aww you two are so cute! I’ve always wanted red hair. I tried a bottle of it once, but it just made me look like Pippi Longstocking!” They all laughed at this.

*****

Joshua, Grace, Verity and Caroline were all getting to know one another at supper in the restaurant across the street from the hospital. Caroline filled them in on the other two flatmates in the house, and how she is the only non-musician in the house. “I feel like I’m an honorary member of the BBC Orchestra since I have three members under my roof. But it’s fun. We all get along, and it becomes quite musical on the days of concerts when they are warming up at home.”

“Do you own the home Caroline?” Verity asked.

“No, I’ve thought about buying it since I pay the majority of the rent anyway, but I’m not sure that once we all go our own ways, that I’ll want to stay on that side of town.”

“Well, you could always keep it as a rental for the income later on when you move on.” Joshua suggested.

Caroline pointed at him, “That is an excellent thought. I’ll have to keep that in mind.” Caroline looked over Grace’s shoulder, “Oh dear, I haven’t seen that dreadful creature since Uni. I hope she doesn’t see me…. Ugh too late.”

There was a loud squeal and everyone at the table turned to see where it was coming from, and then there was a collective moan from all four sitting at the table. “Oh God help us, it's Ruth Teague.” Joshua spoke for everyone!!

“Well, Caroline Penvenan I haven’t seen you since Uni!! Where have you been keeping yourself?”

“Working in London, and avoiding you Ruth. It was nice while it lasted! Ruth, do you know the Poldark family?”

Ruth pulled up a chair and made herself at home. “Yes of course I do! Verity! Joshua and Grace! Are you all here visiting Ross? How is he doing?”

Grace gave Ruth a fake smile, “Ruth how on earth did you know about Ross’s surgery!”

“Surgery? I didn’t know anything about a surgery? Is he ill? He doesn’t have cancer does he?”

Verity rolled her eyes, “Oh Ruth!! Shut up for once!” Verity yelled at Ruth and Caroline was quite impressed! “Ross isn’t ill, he doesn’t have cancer. He just cut the bottom of his foot and had to have surgery on it. He’ll be home tomorrow in the arms of his girlfriend, so don’t even think about spreading rumours about him, and don’t even think of making a move on him. Just stay away from Ross. The last thing he needs is a twat like you clawing on him.”

“Well, I never! Grace, can you not reign in your homely niece and teach her some manners!”

Grace was now laughing at Ruth! “As Verity said, shut up Ruth! Verity conveyed exactly how we all feel. Now please, leave us in peace.”

Ruth stomped her foot and left the table.

Joshua picked up his glass of wine, “I think a toast to Verity is in order!!” They all raised a glass, “To Verity!!”

Verity was beaming, “That did feel good to tell her off!”

What they didn’t know was that Ruth was now busy texting Elizabeth to fill her in on everything she just found out.

*****

“Demelza, what I started to say before the nurse interrupted us, I wanted to tell you that before all this happened, I had planned to ask you over tonight. There’s something that I need, that I want to tell you.”

She could tell by the tone of his voice that Ross had something serious in mind and it made her feel uneasy. “Do you want to break up with me?” She was trying to brace herself for the worst.

“What? No Demelza! That’s the last thing I want. I’m more afraid that you’ll want to break up with me after I tell you what I have to say.”

She raised her hand to run a finger over his cheek with the scar. “Is this about the scar on your face? You know that it doesn’t bother me at all. I think it’s sexy.”

He held her hand on his cheek. “I was so lucky to find you Dem. Part of it is how I got the scar. But, now is not the time to go into all of it. Maybe tomorrow after I get home?”

Demelza looked down and sighed. “Do you mean home here, or home Nampara?”

“Definitely home here. I know that my mum would love for me to go back to Nampara to recuperate, but there’s no way in hell that I’m leaving you for that long!!”

“Are you sure? I can tell that your mum really wants you to go back with them.” Demelza was starting to feel a knot grow in her stomach from everything.

“I’m positive Dem!! Besides, I like the idea of you taking care of me. I might even let you give me a sponge bath! … Just kidding on that.”

She smiled at Ross. “I will only be there part of the time. Between the concerts and my quartet gigs I wouldn’t be able to take care of you full time.”

“I know. We will figure something out.” Ross tried to give Demelza a reassuring smile and leaned down to kiss her.

“Hi guys, just checking to see how the blood is doing? Are you having any allergic reactions? Itching, fever, hives?”

“No, I’m fine, no reactions.”

The nurse was checking the IV lines and the blood. “Good! I couldn't help but hear a little of what you were talking about when I walked in. If you need help at home after you leave here, we can get you set up with home physio, and a home health aide.”

Ross perked up at that thought. “Really? That could work don’t ya think Dem?”

“It might. Maybe they could be there when I can’t?”

“Great. I can have social work come in and talk to you in the morning, they’re probably gone for the day. Everything looks good here. I’ll see you in another 15.”

Ross waited for the nurse to leave the room. “See! I knew we could find a solution. It’s all going to be fine. Please don’t worry. I’m sure Caroline can bring you over tomorrow after work with some clothes and whatever else you need. You can even borrow my Star Wars lounge pants again if you want!” He pulled Demelza in for a kiss.

“Well, you seem to have it all figured out, don’t you Ross.”

“I’m really looking forward to seeing you in my Star Wars pants again. So sexy!” They both started laughing.

They heard the door open and Caroline walked in followed by the Poldarks. “Well someone is having a good time! Here’s some soup for you Dem. So what’s so funny?”

“I was just telling Dem how sexy she looks in my Star Wars lounge pants!” This really made Demelza blush in front of his parents.

“Now there’s something that I wouldn’t think belonged in the same sentence… sexy and Star Wars!” Demelza was laughing at her flat mate.

“Caroline I am very hurt! How dare you desecrate Star Wars!

Verity chimed in, “Oh Caroline be careful of the battles you pick with my cousin. Unfortunately, he’s never outgrown his Star Wars phase. And for sure don’t start an argument over which is the best Star Wars movie. Ross, I’ll never forget that argument that you had with Claude over which Star Wars movie should’ve been shown first. I think that went on for days!” They were all laughing, but it died down when Ross went silent. Grace and Ross noticed that Joshua walked over to look out the window. “Oh Ross, I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to bring up sad memories.”

Ross smiled at Verity. “It’s alright, Verity. Those are actually happy memories.” Grace squeezed Ross’s hand. Demelza gave Caroline a small nod when it looked like she was going to say something. Ross looked at Demelza, “You’d better eat your soup before it gets cold.” and she smiled at him. Ross noticed that Grace was carrying a shopping bag. “Mum, I see that you’ve found a store to shop in. What did you get?”

“Oh we just went to the gift shop. They had some mobile chargers so I bought a couple in case Demelza’s didn’t fit. Have they brought you up something to eat? I bet you're starving?”

Ross took the chargers out of the bag and found one that worked on his mobile. “Thank you mum. Uh no they haven’t brought me anything to eat yet. I’ll ask the nurse about it the next time she comes in. Dem can you plug this in? I think the plug is over on your side.”

“Oh sure.”

The awkward silence was still in the room and it was getting on Caroline’s nerves. “Demelza you’ll never guess who I saw at the restaurant! Ruth Teague!”

Ross and Demelza both said “Ruth Teague!” at the same time, and then looked at each other. “You know her?” They both laughed at this which broke the silence.

“Ross, how do you know Ruth Teague?”

“I went to school with her unfortunately. She was always trying to get me to go out with her, and was always trying to hang around all of us, Verity, Francis, me. Elizabeth and her were always best friends and they hung out together. Christ almighty the thought of that woman makes my skin crawl! How do you and Caroline know her?”

Verity was now wondering if Ross opened a can of worms when he mentioned Elizabeth.

“Caroline and I went to university with her. She was horrible to me, and was always looking down her nose at me because I was on scholarship. I couldn’t stand her. But for some reason she always thought Caroline and her were best mates, didn’t she, Caroline?”

“Lord yes. Well hopefully after Verity told her off at the restaurant we won’t be hearing or seeing from her again. I think she majored in finding a husband because I never saw her study. She was asking about you Ross - if you were ill or had cancer!!”

Ross raised his eyebrows at Verity, “You told her off Verity? I would’ve paid to have seen that!!”

“I bloody well did!! I didn’t want her to look you up here in hospital and interfere when you have a wonderful girlfriend in Demelza. I wouldn’t trust her any farther than I could throw her.”

“Thank you, Verity. That’s so very sweet of you. Did you tell her that Ross’s girlfriend was me?”

“No, I didn’t. I didn’t realise at the time that you two knew each other. We’re better off her not knowing who his girlfriend is.”

Philipa the nurse came in with the nurse that will be taking over. “This is Becky. She’s going to be your nurse for the next 12 hours. I’ve already given her report. And I’ve also ordered a full liquid tray for you to try and see if you can keep down. We like to ease surgery patients into their diet. I imagine that you’re hungry. If you do alright with the full liquid tray, then we can advance your diet.”

“Thank you Philipa. My stomach is growling.”

“No problem. It looks like your blood is almost done. Becky will be taking care of that on her shift. And Ross, I did order that social work consult that you asked about, so I’m sure that you’ll hear from them in the morning as well as physio. Hopefully you’ll be gone by this time tomorrow. Any questions?”

“I think you’ve covered everything. Thank you for all of your help today.”

“My pleasure. It was nice to meet all of you today. Take care.”

Ross noticed that Joshua turned and came back into the conversation. “Did she mention social work? What’s that for, son?”

“Social Work is going to set up a home health aide as well as home physio for me. I think between that and Demelza, I’ll be fine at home.”

Joshua was shaking his head in agreement, “Sounds like a plan to me.”

“But I thought Verity and I could take turns…” Grace stopped herself. “You know what, I think that will work fine. But if you do need one of us to come up, please don’t hesitate to call.”

“Thanks for understanding mum. Are the three of you staying tonight somewhere?”

Demelza and Caroline were observing the family dynamics play out.

Joshua said, “Yes, we’re staying at one of the hotels across the street. Hopefully Ruth won’t be staying there as well!” They all chuckled at that. “Son, are you in any pain? I imagine the pain medication from surgery is starting to wear off.”

“Just a little throbbing so far.” Just then Ross’s tray came in. “Oh yay for me! What do we have here? A bowl full of broth? Some sort of juice, gelatin, and coffee. I could eat 5 of these trays!”

Demelza started to help Ross with his tray but saw that Grace had already opened his juice for him so she sat back down. A move that Joshua caught. “Grace, why don’t the three of us go check in at the hotel and leave Ross to his dinner. Hmm?” He put his arm around Grace and she gave him a knowing smile. “That sounds like a good idea. Ross, we’ll see you in the morning after breakfast.” She bent down and gave her son a kiss, and Joshua gave him a hug and a wink which surprised Ross. Verity gave him a hug as well. “Love you cousin.” Ross smiled, “Love you back!”

“I’ll walk with you downstairs.” Caroline said, leaving Ross and Demelza alone again.

*****

Caroline was saying her good-byes to the Poldarks in the hospital lobby when Verity asked, “Are you going to be leaving soon?”

“I think I’ll hang out down here for awhile until Demelza is ready to go.”

“Oh that’s right, Demelza rode with you.” Verity replied.

“Well yes, Demelza doesn’t drive.” They gave her a questioning look.

Caroline let her mask come off. “She never learned to drive while she still lived at home, because there wasn’t the money for her to take driver’s training. It doesn’t sound like they had a care most of the time anyway. Then when she went to University she always lived on campus or with me, so she didn’t need to drive, plus she still didn’t have money to learn or buy a car. And then after we moved here, well, she just learned to use public transportation just like a lot of Londoners do. She rarely needs a lift anywhere, and she’s very self-sufficient. And whenever she needs to bring her cello home, she and James usually ride with Henry. He has an old van so they all fit with all of their instruments.”

Grace spoke up, “I see. Will she be able to get to rehearsal from Ross’s place?”

“Oh I’m sure. There are tube stops all over the place. And if not she can always uber or take a cab. She’ll work it out. Like I said, she’s very self reliant. She’s had to be her whole life.”

Grace gave an understanding smile, “Yes, I guess she has. Thank you for everything Caroline.” She gave Caroline a hug and kiss good-bye.

*****

Night nurse Becky had come in and removed the empty bag of blood, took Ross’s vitals, added some pain medication to his IV, and ordered another tray for the still starving Ross, and left the two lovebirds to themselves. Ross had finally convinced Demelza to sit on the bed next to him so that he could wrap his arms around her, her hand on his chest. They both let out a yawn at the same time, which made them giggle. Ross carefully caressed Dem’s check with his hand that had an IV in it, and kissed her on the nose.

“I am so glad that you’re here, Dem. This day has been so long, it’s felt like it’s been two days in one and that I haven’t seen you during both of them. I’ve missed you.” He feathered her cheek with kisses.

“Oh shoot! Talking about the days reminds me, Ross. I won’t be able to come to yours right after rehearsal tomorrow. I have a … an appointment tomorrow. But I’ll come straight away after my appointment.”

“That’s okay, just come over whenever. Mum and da might still be there anyway. Do you have a lesson after rehearsal?”

“Yeah, a piano lesson. I’ll probably cancel them after that one until after Christmas because I won’t have time for them. I’ll probably take my suitcase with me to rehearsal so that I don’t have to waste time going back to the flat. I can pick up supper on my way to your place if you like.”

“Well, let’s just wait and see first and make sure that I am going home tomorrow. Hopefully I will. Mum and da and Ver will be able to take me home and get me settled. I’ll ask mum to go to the shop and stock up the kitchen. That will give her something to do and make her happy.” Demelza smiled up at him for that statement.

“She really loves you doesn’t she.”

“Yeah, we are pretty close. I guess I’ve just let her do her thing with mum stuff because she only has me ya know.”

“Do ya think you would’ve gone home to recuperate if I hadn’t been here?” Demelza had a smirk on her face now, expecting what the answer might be.

Ross giggled and rolled his eyes, “Maybe! I admit it. Busted.” He looked in her eyes and kissed her again, “But I do have you, and I am so glad that I do.” He gave her a lingering kiss and Demelza finally pulled away, “So am I.”

It was going on 8:30 and there was a knock on the door from Caroline. “Hello, is my roomie still here?”

Ross covered Demelza up and said “No she’s not here. I don’t know what happened to her?”

“Haha very funny Poldark.” She pulled the blankets to expose Demelza. “C’mon Dem it’s getting late. And I expect you have to pack some clothes.”

“Oh alright, if you must go. But promise me that you’ll text me so that I know that you made it home alright.” He grabbed one more kiss from Demelza.

Demelza smiled at him. “Alright, I promise. You get some rest, yeah”

“Goodnight Ross. Sleep tight.”

“Goodnight Caroline. Take care of my girl!”

*****

Caroline and Demelza were in the car on their way home.

“So Demelza, does Ross know about your doctor appointment tomorrow?”

“No. I just told him that I had a piano lesson. I’m not ready to tell him yet.”

“You’re not going to tell him that you’re going on the pill?”

“No. I’m not quite ready yet. I just want to be prepared. He told me that he has to tell me something important tomorrow and that he’s afraid that I will break up with him afterwards.”

“That sounds ominous. Any clue what that might be?”

“No. But it scares me. I can’t imagine what he might tell me that would make me break up with him. I’m not very good at waiting in these types of situations. I wish that he hadn’t told me, because now that’s all I’m going to be worried about.” Demelza started crying.

“That was kind of cruel for him to drop that on you. Oh Dem I hate to see you like this.”

Demelza was sobbing now. “Oh Caro! I, I …”

Caroline had pulled into their driveway now and was calling someone on her phone.

“Who are you calling?”

“Dwight hi! I’m sorry to be calling so late.” Demelza was motioning for Caroline to hang up.

“Caroline! Is something wrong? Is Ross alright?”

“Yes, yes he’s fine. Demelza and I just left him. They just gave him some pain medicine so he’s probably happily asleep now. I need to ask you something.” Demelza was still trying to get Caroline to hang up, but Caroline wasn’t having any of it.

Dwight was confused by now. “Okay, I just got back to mine with Seamus. What’s going on?”

“Demelza is crying her eyes out right now because Ross said something that upset her.”

“Oh bloody hell, what did the wanker say?”

“He told her that he has to tell her something important tomorrow and he’s afraid that she might break up with him afterwards. He didn’t give her any clue as to what it is and now my dear friend is a nervous wreck and has to wait 24 hours until Ross tells her. Now Dwight I’m mad as hell! What kind of a twat would do that to a girl??? I’m only calling you because I hate to see her wait like this!! I’m sorry if I’ve offended you and your friend and if you want to break up with me over it than fine, but I want to know what the fuck is going on!!”

Dwight was completely bowled over by Caroline now. Wow. Caroline used the F word. He had never heard Caroline use that language. But Caroline was really upset and rightly so. He could hear Demelza crying in the background and he was getting madder by the second at his best mate for doing this to her. “Hold on Caroline, try to calm down. I have a feeling what Ross was talking about. Sometimes Ross doesn’t think about what he says and how it might come across. It’s not my place to tell you or Demelza what he’s probably going to talk to her about. But I will tell you, that I honestly don’t think Demelza will want to break up with Ross over it.”

Caroline had Dwight on speaker by now so that Demelza could listen. “Then why would he say such a thing to her?”

Dwight huffed. “I don’t know how to explain it without telling you, but like I said, it’s not my place. It’s not my story.”

Demelza stopped crying long enough to ask, “Is it about his brother Claude?”

“Yes, most of it is. It’s a very touchy subject with the whole family. I think Ross and his mum will talk about him a little, but Joshua never, ever talks about him.”

Caroline thought back to the earlier conversation about Claude in the hospital room. “So that’s why Joshua went all quiet when Verity talked about Claude tonight.”

“Verity talked about Claude? In front of Joshua? That blows my mind. What did she say about him?”

Demelza spoke up, “Ross was saying how sexy I looked in his Star Wars pants, and that started this whole conversation about Star Wars. Verity mentioned how Ross and Claude argued for days over something related to Star Wars. There were a few laughs over it, but Joshua absolutely went silent. I noticed that he walked over to the window and just stared out of it for the longest time.” She was still wiping the tears from her eyes.

“That sounds like him. Demelza, I really don’t think you have anything to worry about. And I’m truly sorry that Ross went all secretive on you. I’m surprised he even brought it up to you at the hospital. Maybe it was the drugs talking.”

“Maybe. He did say that he had plans to have me over tonight and was going to talk about something important, but of course that all changed. I knew that there was something to do with his scar, but I was trying to give him space and not force him to tell me. Thank you for trying to reassure me Dwight. And please don’t tell him that we called you. I don’t want him to know that I was upset.”

“I won’t. Try to get some sleep. I don’t know if I’ll see either one of you tomorrow, I have a shift at 7P. “

Caroline said, “Thank you Dwight. I’m sorry that I went off on you like that.”

Dwight smiled to himself, “Don’t worry about it. You were just protecting your friend. Goodnight you two.”

“Goodnight Dr Enys.”

Caroline hung up and sighed and took Demelza’s hand. “There. Feel any better?”

Demelza shook her head yes, “Thanks for calling even though I didn’t want you too.”

“That’s what friends are for. Now let’s go to bed. I’m bloody knackered!!”

********

Act Naturally

Written by Morrison-Russell

“I sang ‘Act Naturally’ in Help!. I found it on a Buck Owens record and I said, ‘This is the one I am going to be doing,’ and they said ‘OK’. We were listening to all kinds of things.”

–Ringo Starr

They’re gonna put me in the movies

They’re gonna make a big star out of me

We’ll make a film about a man that’s sad and lonely

And all I gotta do is act naturally

Well, I’ll bet you I’m gonna be a big star

Might win an Oscar, you can never tell

The movie’s gonna make me a big star

‘Cause I can play the part so well

Well I hope you’ll come and see me in the movies

Then I’ll know that you will plainly see

The biggest fool that ever hit the big time