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Chapter 1
 
 

“I promise!” Jenny emphatically conveyed. “I’ll get her to call as soon as I see her, Maddy … don’t cry, dear … somehow … I know things’ll work out … she’s been waiting a very long time to hear that … and I know she’d much rather hear it from you … now try to relax … I’ll make sure she calls … okay? … Auf Wiedersehen.”

Jenny was just putting down the phone, when her youngest daughter entered the room.

“Maddy again?”

“Uh huh … she wants you to call and I promised her you would this time. God knows how much you’ve wanted to do that these past few years.”

“It’s been so long…” Gaby’s voice faded as she wondered if she’d even be able to talk to Maddy after all that had passed between them.

“I bet she’s just as scared as you are, if not more…”

“She really wants me to call? She’s not going to hang up on me?”

“All I know is that she has to talk to you and was in tears when we said good-bye just now,” Jenny added in a sombre tone.

“Here … now, call her!” Jenny firmly stated as she passed her daughter the cordless phone. “Carol’s number’s programmed in the phone. If you could’ve heard her just now...”

As she dried her moist eyes, Gaby thought back to the ‘old gang’ and the times they had before that fateful trip to Virginia and later, her fourteenth birthday. Despite it all, deep down, she never did lose her feelings for Maddy and she wondered if her girlfriend still shared those feelings.

“It’s just that ...” Heaving a big sigh, her thoughts began to fade.

Those same thoughts were interrupted as she heard the musical tones of Carol’s number, being dialed up by the phone.

“Has she decided? … What do I say? … Would she even bother to phone if she wanted nothing more to do with me? … Naw … she’d just forget about me … maybe she…”

“Peters residence…”

“Uh … hi… Uncle John? …. Ummmm … it’s Gaby … is … ummm … Maddy there? Mum told me she called.” Gaby felt nervous as she spoke into the handset.

“...Just a minute, Gaby … MAADDDEEE! … It’s Gaby! Hurry up ... it’s lon…”

A rumble reminiscent of a heard of stampeding rogue elephants was clearly heard in the background as Maddy ran up the stairs from the kitchen to take the phone in her room.

(sniff) ” …Got it! Hang up …please?” (click)

(sniff) “…Hi, Gaby?” Despite her best efforts to compose herself before picking up the phone, Maddy failed miserably.

“You okay, Mad?”

“(sniff),” Maddy tearfully admitted.

“I know you said you never wanted to see me again after everything I did (sniff) … and ... okay ... I deserved it … but … I just have to see you, Gabs! There’s things we sniff) … I … have to talk about ... and I think it’s better if we talked face-to-face. Will ... will you ... meet me if I came to Germany? Please? (sniff) Mum already said that I could catch a flight an’ be there for the weekend … if … if … that’s okay with you?”

Maddy paused ever so briefly and then calmly and clearly said the words Gaby lived to hear.

“I love you, Gabrielle Bond … and … I want to be a part of your life ... again … if ... you’ll have me.”

As Maddy paused, she thought she heard the faint sounds of someone crying on the other end of the line and then silence. She closed her own tear-filled eyes and softly pleaded, “You still there Gabs?”

After a short pause, she finally heard Gaby’s weak, emotional voice.

“Yeah … I‘m here, Mad. (sniff) You really can come this weekend? (sniff)”

“I’ve still got two weeks of school left ... but Mum said she’ll let me take this Friday off ... will you be allowed to meet me, then? She thinks I’d have no trouble getting a morning flight to Bonn,” Maddy explained in a stronger voice.

“I’m finished school ... (sniff) an’ I’m pretty sure I can get this Friday off from training. Just give me a ‘ring’ when you have all the details … an’ I’ll be there … ‘kay? ”

“Yeah … okay … Gaby? I want you to know … that … I ... really do ... love you...” Maddy’s voice faded as her emotions once again threatened to overwhelm her.

“You know I’ve always loved you, Mad ... an’ I’ve never denied that ... to anybody. … Now? I’m sorry … but … I gotta go … Mum wants something. Crikey! This better be important! No ... not you, Mad … Mum. Look ... call me just as soon as you get your flight information … ‘kay? I love you, Mad … laters…”

With her voice trailing off, Gaby blew a kiss into the handset, then slowly returned it to its cradle and quickly dabbed her wet eyes.

“Well? What’d she say?” Jenny was all over her daughter like a gossip-starved schoolgirl!

Gaby, looked up from the phone at her mum and quietly replied, “If I tell you … can I have Friday off and take the Volvo to go meet her?”

“Only if you sit down and tell your ol’ mum all about it.” A wide smile crossed Jenny’s face as they sat down at the dining-room table.

After Gaby told her mother all about the phone call, Jenny leaned back in her chair to ponder what she had heard, then sat up and stared deeply at her youngest child.
“You realize your dad won’t get that guest room looking respectable, by the weekend?”

“Well … we could…“ Gaby began.

“You’re right ... we could always double you and your sister … and let Maddy have your room…” Jenny suggested.

Gaby quickly responded with an enthusiastic, “Or we could let Jules have her room, an’…”

Suddenly Gaby felt her mum’s stare boring into her like a dull dentist drill and while she was positive no one had mastered ’the stare’ like her Gran, Gaby always felt her mum was a close second!

“What?” Gaby shouted as she suddenly stood up and moved away from the table, while looking at her mother in total disbelief. “It’s not like I’m gonna get her pregnant or anything!”

Jenny tried to keep a straight face but quickly lost the fight with her daughter’s reaction.

“Okay, kiddo … we’ll put her in with you ... but if you could’ve only seen your face!”

An appreciative Gaby bent down and gave her mum a huge hug.

“Best get upstairs and get ready so we can leave when your dad and sister get home. Remember we’re going out for dinner with the Pinger’s.”

“It’s so nice to have a full house again ... now that Jules is back and working with Dave for the summer.”

As Gaby was just starting up the stairs to go and change, Maddy phoned back.

“Hallo? Yes … she’s here this time … Gaby! It’s Maddy … here.” Jenny handed the phone to her anxious daughter.

“That didn’t take long! Okay … TUIfly 1501 … Terminal 2 … Lufthansa arrivals … 10:50 … got it! Oh! ... Mum said I have the Friday off, so I’ll be there … don’t worry … I love you, Mad...”

As Gaby hung up, she blew another kiss into the phone and then stared at the notes she’d made with Maddy’s flight information.
“Five whole days! … Well, I suppose if I waited this long....”

At the restaurant, Gaby learned from Maria and Jenny, just how long those five days would be!

With the Junior World Cup tour scheduled to leave for Beckley, W. Virginia in two week’s time, the Junior Team Apollinaris would begin full-day training along side the pro team, including daily training rides ranging from 70 to 120 kilometres and having to, as Maria said, ’tolerate George’!

When she heard Maria’s words, a huge grin immediately crossed her face.

“It may have been a few years since the ‘Winter Classic’, Gabi … but I’m counting on you to help me pass on our combined experience with that race to the rest of your team-mates … the competition they will be facing may be generally older und more experienced … but since they’re not pros … we’ll have to deal mit them … just like Atlanta,” Maria mentioned with a smile.

“There’s something else … your mama has told me that you’ve asked for this Friday as an off-day.”

“Ja.” Gaby nervously waited for the other boot to drop.

“That's okay mit me … but could you spare an hour for the team meeting? I think it ist important that you be there. I could schedule it for late afternoon … say three? Would that be okay?”

“Ja.” Gaby suddenly felt like she won the lottery as Maria continued to speak to her.

“Your mama’s mentioned your ‘friend’ ist scheduled to land around noon ... so that should give you plenty of time to get back from the airport by then. Bring her along if you want.”

“We’ll both be there, Maria … Danke!”

Giving a mental sigh of relief, Gaby went back to her food and since the discussion moved on from cycling, she once more found herself turning her thoughts back to being reunited with Maddy.

“What was that all about?” Kat discreetly asked Jules as she watched Gaby become lost in her thoughts.

“Maddy phoned … she’s coming on Friday,” Jules whispered.

“That ist gut … ja?” Kat asked, in an almost inaudible whisper.

“From what I’ve overheard … that’s very good!” Jules replied in a hushed voice.

Both girls glanced at each other, each knowing exactly what Gaby was thinking about.

The next few days flew past in a flurry for Gaby. Both George and Maria hardly gave the Junior team time to relax, working them right along side of the Pro team and expecting just as much from them.

A typical morning for the girls began with joining the women of the Elite team at 7am for a ride that typically lasted a few hours. They’d be constantly drilled in team tactics and repeatedly put through road drills to enforce what they learned. Sometimes, George would give Maria a free hand as she allowed the kids to put theory into practice with a ‘short’ race in which the Pro team took the role of the competition.

Following the morning ride, they’d head inside the training facility for a relaxing soak in one of the hot tubs, a massage and late lunch.

The afternoon would consist of a daily team meeting for the junior team where the morning’s work was re-hashed, followed by a rigorous session in the gym on the various pieces of equipment. If they were lucky, Maria would let them go before 6pm.

Near the end of the week, the girls were chuffed in not only that they trained with their mentors, but they proved that each one of them had what it takes to be able to ride a race side-by-side with the Pro team.

After what seemed to be the longest week in Gaby’s life, Friday finally arrived. She took the rare opportunity to sleep in, awakening shortly after everyone else had left for work. After stepping out of the shower and drying herself, she blow-dried her hair and did her make-up. Heading back into her room, she thought about what to wear.

Standing around in only her panties, she nervously went through her closet trying to select that perfect outfit. After mix n’ matching several items, she settled on pairing one of her denim mini skirts with her white cotton and lace off-the-shoulder peasant top with long loose sleeves that tied at the wrists. Once that decision was made, it was back to her dresser, looking for that perfect bra.

“That strapless bra’s gotta be here, somewhere ... I know it’s not in the laundry...”

A pair of ‘nude’ pantyhose, her black dress pumps with a three-inch heel, a Sterling silver Figaro chain for her neck and matching two-inch hoop earrings, completed her look. With a final brushing of her hair and a quick check in the full-length mirror on the back of her bedroom door, she headed for the kitchen.

Following a quick breakfast and the mandatory washing up, she nervously gave her make-up a final check using the mirror in the hall. Making sure she had the keys before she picked up her bag, she proceeded out to ‘her car’, or at least that’s how she felt when she sat behind the wheel!

There was still one stop she had to make in town before heading out and tackling the Autobahn. Checking her watch, she saw that she still had roughly two hours before Maddy’s plane was scheduled to land, giving her plenty of time to make that stop and get to the airport.

Even though the traffic on the Autobahn was much lighter than she expected, when she exited for the airport Gaby ran into some major road construction. The unwelcome lane closures on a few of the access roads caused her progress to be drastically slowed.

With thoughts of missing Maddy’s arrival running around in her mind, she finally entered the car park for Terminal 2. After finding a spot reasonably near the building, Gaby wasted no time locking up the car and grabbing her package before making her way to the terminal.

Once inside, she became aware of how nervous she really was about seeing Maddy after four years of separation. Calling upon her pre-race routine, she took a few deep breaths to calm herself while she looked around for a ‘ladies’ so she might give herself yet another ‘final’ check before the reunion.

Soon after she entered the large concourse and glanced up at the ‘arrivals board’, she saw that Maddy’s plane was due to land in a matter of minutes. Quickly picking out an unoccupied space opposite the wide hallway leading from Immigration, she proceeded to casually lean up against a column and focus on the closed glass doors.
As she periodically alternated her gaze from the glass doors to the electronic ‘Arrivals’ board, the butterflies in her stomach suddenly became very active as she watched the flight’s status for her love’s plane, change to ‘landed’.

After waiting for what seemed like hours, a large number of people began to stream out of Customs. Gaby intently watched for her girlfriend, but as the group started to thin out and no Maddy, she started to feel anxious. As she looked around and wondered what happened, a single tap on the shoulder made her visibly ‘jump’.

“Hi, Gabs...” Maddy’s voice was quiet, almost apologetic. Gaby turned to look at her and was met with the saddest puppy-dog eyes she ever saw.

“Hi, Mad…” Gaby found herself at a loss for words as she softly greeted her guest.

“Gaby … I’m sor…”

“Mad … shhhhh,” Gaby quietly implored. “Unless you came all this way to give me a ‘dear Gaby’ speech ... you’ve already told me all I need to know … all I really want to know.”

“No … there’s no speech...”

“Then ... this is for you…”

Without letting her finish, Gaby handed her two silk, short-stemmed, red roses, with the stems twisted together.

“Thank you … I…” Maddy’s choked up voice was barely above a whisper.

“They’re beautiful, but…why are they twisted together?” Maddy puzzled.

“I hope they can be us … two roses … two of us … two stems as one … two hearts as one,” Gaby quietly offered.

“After everything I di... (sniff)” Maddy whispered as tears starting to run down her cheeks.

As she lifted her gaze from the flowers, she threw her arms around Gaby and totally ignoring their very public surroundings, pulled her close for a lingering kiss.

“I was beginning to think I’d never be able to hold you again,” Gaby whispered as she continued to embrace Maddy.

“When you walked out of my room that night … (sniff) I was so scared I lost you forever,” Maddy softly admitted. When they released their embrace, Gaby took her finger and gently wiped a few tears from Maddy’s face.

“How ‘bout we get outta here an’ grab something to eat, before we hit the Autobahn? Mum may have let me have the time off to meet you, but Maria still wants me for our daily team meeting. We’ve still got a bit of time to get you settled in and maybe even talk a bit before we have to go … ‘kay?”

“Okay … but what time do you have to be there?”

“Three ... but, don’t worry ... you’re coming with me. Maria said it’s okay.”

“What does she have to do with you?”

“Mum may still be the Training Director for the youth program, but Maria’s taken over the coaching duties.”

“Oh. Umm … Gabs? You never really answered my question on the phone ... will you let me back into your life?” Maddy’s voice had gone quiet.

“You were never gone, Mad …” Gaby’s reply was equally quiet.

“I love you,” Maddy softly whispered as she closed her eyes to prevent another flood of tears as she pulled Gaby into another long hug.

After a while, Gaby gently freed herself from her girlfriend’s embrace and suggested they head for the car. Following a tender kiss, she picked up Maddy’s single piece of luggage and took her hand before leading her out of the terminal.

“Maybe it might be better if we went right to your place an’ had lunch?” Maddy suggested while Gaby was caught behind some slow-moving traffic heading out of the airport and onto the Autobahn.

“At the rate the traffic’s moving … that sounds like a good idea!”

Once on the open road, the drive to the front door was a little more than an hour. A short time later, the girls found themselves in the kitchen making a quick lunch. At every opportunity during the conversation, Maddy tried to apologize and Gaby tried just as hard to dismiss her efforts.

“Don’t you want to know?” Maddy pointedly asked.

“Nope!” Gaby tersely replied.

“Gabeeeee … please? I need to say this,” Maddy whined, her eyes glazing over.

“Why?” Gaby softly asked as she gently took hold of Maddy’s hands.

“I have to ... please?” Maddy weakly replied.

Gently guiding Gaby to one of the kitchen chairs, Maddy pulled up another chair and sat down facing her.

“Okay, but you really d…” Gaby was stopped from completing her thought when Maddy put her finger against her girlfriend’s lips.

“I’ve thought about this many times since I called you an’ now I’m going to go through with it...”

Maddy’s voice faded to a whisper. With a deep breath, she found the inner strength to continue.

“Back in the third levels, even before that Easter disco when we all went as Magna characters … I knew I liked girls.”

Seeing Gaby was about to say something, Maddy again gently silenced her girlfriend but this time, with a gentle kiss on the lips.

“Let me finish, okay? I need to say this ... if not for you … then … for me … please, Gabs?” Gaby squeezed Maddy’s hand and reluctantly nodded her agreement.

“Thank you…” Maddy whispered and following a bit of a silence to gather herself, she resumed her explanation after a huge sigh.

“I had no idea that you were intersexed … and Drew wasn’t really feminine … but … I dunno … a feeling … a voice … something … something made me want to see you as a girl … and … after I got the others to go along with my costume idea … well … you know the rest. The only problem was … I quickly found that I fancied the ‘girl’ I was with … and … as time went on, I needed to be with ‘her’ … more and more…”

“When Britney first told me her ‘rents were expecting two sisters … I was in Heaven because I’d be with 'her' for six whole weeks ... but as time dragged on and I only saw 'Gaby', I realized the focus of my love was changing.

Before we left for the States, you asked me who I loved an' I said ... it didn't matter, I loved you ... 'you' as in Drew an' Gaby. That day we went skiing, I answered that same question ... not with 'I love you' ... but rather ... 'I love you, Gaby'. That was the first time I admitted to anyone that I loved you without mentioning Drew's name.”

“...Mad...”

“Please? ... I'm sorry ... but I really don't know why I did what I did in Grottoes ... an' I've concluded that I never will. What I do know is ... it happened and I hurt the only girl I'll ever love. When you finally called it quits after the comp ... I felt as if you ripped my beating heart from me, threw it on the floor an' stomped all over it. That night when we got back to her place, Jessica an' I had a long mother-daughter type talk ... well, she mostly talked an' held me ... I pretty well cried the whole time. Later, back at school after your race ... you totally ignored me an' that really hurt. Even now, if I close my eyes, I can still feel it.”

Gaby could see how painful the memories were, but Maddy shook off her girlfriend's attempts to get her to stop.

“When I first saw you at your locker, brushing your hair ... I thought you looked so beautiful ... with it long like that an' all ... only to be reminded that we weren't a couple anymore. Later in Washington, I tried to apologize like Jessica suggested, but ... I couldn't ... I mean, how could I after what I did? If I never kept her present 'til your birthday instead of giving it to you at the hotel like she asked ... it might've given us a reason to talk again, another chance to apologize an' maybe start over.”

“Wot 'appened?”

“Fran's decision not to let Mr. Woods mention our win at the comp. I know how upset she was about us an' all, but all I saw was that you were the reason behind it an' something inside me snapped. I saw your birthday as payback.

It was only when you told everyone about that letter, that the full extent of what I did to you an' our families sunk in. The problems with the school an' the 'gang' as a result of that night, only added to any problems I had with you. Then when you moved, that ended my life ... an' I just retreated further into my own dark world.

Knowing that it was 'Gaby' I really hurt, only made it worse. Having to walk by your picture every day at school, seeing all the photos Mom would leave lying around ... an' havin' Mr. Woods constantly keep us up-to-date with your latest races all added to the fact you weren't around an' there was nothing I could do. I lost count of the number of times that I wished I had someone to talk to.”

“You always had Fran, you know.”

“Yeah, I did, but it was a while before I did ... an' then it only was because she kept reaching out as much as she did, that I finally got the courage to talk to you on the phone.”

Gaby quietly rose from her chair and gently pulled Maddy to her feet, into a warm, loving embrace.

“Feel better? I don’t care what happened … or why it happened ... I only know that I love you … an’ I’m not going to let you go this time.” Gaby sealed her promise with a long, passionate kiss.

“Sorry ... I didn’t mean to talk so much,” Maddy softy voiced as she saw the clock on the wall behind them.

“That’s okay, we’ll eat later. C’mon ... I’ll show you where you’ll sleep,” Gaby quietly replied as she took Maddy and her luggage up to her room.

“I’m not throwing you out of your room, am I?” Maddy asked once she saw ‘her room’.

“Nope … we’re ‘roomies’! ... That okay?”

“It’s more than okay...” Maddy playfully whispered as she embraced Gaby in a warm hug.

“Ummm ... don’t you have a meeting to go to?” Maddy reluctantly asked after a few minutes in her girlfriend’s arms.. “It’s bit after two.”

“Thanks,” Gaby sarcastically replied. “I’d much rather stay here … holding you.”

“There’s always after…” Maddy playfully suggested.

“True.” With a gentle kiss, they finally broke their embrace. Gaby saw they had just enough time to freshen up and comfortably drive to the team’s training facility.

A short time later as they turned into the car park, they caught sight of Maria and George talking in front of the building.

“There’s an empty spot up front ... by that green van,” Maddy suggested as they slowly cruised the aisles of the crowded car park.

“Oh, bum ... sorry Gabs ... that’s reserved ... I think,” Maddy pointed out as she noticed a sign posted at the head of the parking space.

“No problem!” Gaby mischievously dismissed Maddy’s warning as she swung into the empty spot. At the same time, Maddy couldn’t help but notice the man Maria had been talking with, was intently watching as Gaby parked the car.

“Won’t you get into trouble? That man over there was watching you park.”

“Naw! George won’t say anything ... it’s Mum’s spot...” Gaby playfully answered. “...An’ this is her car. She drove in with Dad this morning.”

“Where’s Uncle Dave’s car?”

“Beside us.” Gaby smirked while looking over the car’s roof at Maddy as they both got out of the car.

When Maria opened the glass doors to head into the training facility, she caught sight of both girls walking along the walkway toward her and decided to wait for them to catch up.

“Willkommen Maddy! It’s been a few years since I last saw you. How long are you here for?”

“Only the weekend, I’m afraid. I fly back late Sunday afternoon. Unfortunately I’ve still a week of school left.”

“Well … I hope you enjoy your stay. I’ll try not to keep Gaby too long. Komm … the sooner we start...”

Maria ushered both girls inside and steered them past reception and into the smallest of the three conference rooms on the main level where they were quickly joined by the rest of the Junior team.

Moments later, Jenny and Dave walked into the room and as soon as they had taken their seats, Maria started the team’s Friday meeting. After introducing Maddy to the rest of the team, it was right down to business. Later, when there was a short break in the proceedings, Maria approached the two girls.

“Boring, ja?” Maria playfully asked Maddy.

“No ... not really. I’ve ridden a few time trials with Gabs back ‘ome when we were kids and I guess some of that spirit is still there ... so seeing how a team works, is rather interesting.”

Gaby observed a subtle, nod of Maria’s head before she excused herself to have a few words with Jenny. After her coach left them, Gaby turned her attention back to Maddy and continued giving her some background about the purpose of the meetings.

“The UCI have sanctioned a Junior World Cup tour later this summer, so Mum an’ Maria thought daily meetings would sort out any problems in our training an’ help get us ready for our international debut as well as get us use to being a team.”

“So, you going to be on this World Cup tour ... all summer?”

Before Gaby could say anything more, everyone returned to their seats around the table and gave their full attention to Maria as she resumed the meeting.

As the meeting was wrapping up, Jenny was given the ‘floor’ to make an announcement.

“As you all know, you’ve been closely watched, not only by Maria, Dave and myself ... but more importantly by George and Corporate ... and I have to tell you that the Youth Program has exceeded their expectations ... especially you four. Everyone thought your performance when training alongside the Pro team, both individually and as a team ... was nothing short of magnificent. As a result … it was strongly suggested to Dave and myself, to let you continue to train with that ‘other team’ whenever they’re here. It was felt that the interaction between you and the other girls, plus the progress that we’ve witnessed … even in the short span of a week … more than justifies that decision. Congratulations!”

“On that note ... have a good weekend und we’ll see you all bright and early on Monday,” Maria called out as meeting broke up.

Jenny caught up with her daughter just as she and Maddy were about to leave the room with the others.

“We’ll be home soon, dear. Your dad and Jules are just catching up on a few things. Meanwhile … why don’t you two go on ahead and think of what you’d like to do about food?”

“…‘Kay.”

Without thinking, Gaby took Maddy’s hand and headed for the car. Smiling to herself, Jenny mumbled something and went back to her office.

Sometime later, the rest of the Bond family arrived home. As Jules and her mother passed by the lounge to go upstairs to change, they saw both girls cuddled up with each other on the couch, totally oblivious to the rest of the world. Jules continued upstairs to change, while leaving Jenny to address to two lovebirds.

(Ahem) Gaby and Maddy immediately un-tangled each other and sat upright.

“Now that I got your attention ... any ideas?” Jenny wondered.

Gaby looked at her mum with a puzzled expression.

“… for food? Remember?” Jenny prompted.

“Out?”

“I can live with that ... saves me from cooking! I’ll tell your dad he’s taking us out for dinner,” Jenny replied with a huge smile. With that, she left the two girls alone and went off to inform the other two of dinner plans.

Returning to the lounge after a few minutes, she sat down in the chair nearest the couch.

“While the others are getting ready, can I talk to you two?”

“Sure … I guess ...” Gaby answered after exchanging questioning glances with Maddy.

“Can I assume things are now okay between both of you?”

The two girls linked hands again, looked at each other and again nodded their agreement.

“Good … because I wanted to talk mainly to you Maddy … but it affects both of you,” Jenny explained.

“What about?” Maddy asked.

“Well … like … any plans now you’re finished with Warsop College?” Jenny coyly asked.

“I’ve been accepted at UMIST,” Maddy casually replied.

“Any idea what you want to major in?” Gaby asked with interest.

“Not really ... but I’m thinking ‘Molecular Biology’.”

“Wow … heavy stuff,” Gaby quietly responded.

“I’ve always fancied the sciences and the idea of getting into something like medical research sounds interesting,” Maddy admitted. Both Bond women were impressed. At the same time, Jenny hoped Gaby wouldn’t feel inadequate with her own plans to follow in her mother’s teaching footsteps, after hearing Maddy’s goals.

“What about summer plans?” Jenny inquired.

“Dad thinks I could get a part-time clerk position in his office. I know it’s not glamorous, but it pays ... and I can at least help them by taking some of the sting out of my university costs. Why?”

“Maria and I’ve been thinking about this for a while now. Your call last week only made me think that I should ask you ... and today, Maria had the same thought.”

“Ask me what?”

“How’d you like to work with the Junior team during their upcoming ‘World Tour’? It’d be five weeks of international travel … work … and … Gaby … not to mention getting paid a tidy sum over the summer!”

Jenny thought she saw Maddy’s attention level rise.

“I think when it comes to financial remuneration, you’ll find George treats his people very well. Interested?” Maddy enthusiastically nodded.

“What do I have to do?”

“I know you’re already familiar with the bikes and what goes on behind the scenes ... considering all the time you spent at races and on the bike with my youngest,” Jenny chuckled.

“What you’d be doing while on ‘tour’, would be to work with Hans ... he’s the mechanic assigned to us for the summer. That means you’ll be doing everything from helping out in the car during a race, to preparing the bikes for the day’s events as well as assisting in the packing and unpacking of the team’s equipment.” Jenny briefly paused while that registered with Maddy.

“We may have some help assigned to us by the organizer’s for any given race … but you, Hans and myself would be the only ‘official’ support going with the team,’ Jenny revealed.

“As for the travel, we’ll be making stops in the United States, Canada, Holland and Germany ... in that order.”

“Still interested?” Jenny asked.

“After the last four years ... I’d be daft to pass up a chance to spend time with Gabs. I owe us both that much,” Maddy replied while at the same time, giving an enthusiastic squeeze to Gaby’s hand.

“Fair ‘nuff … I’ll call George to let him know I’ve found someone to help out,” Jenny replied as she reached for the phone.

“You two go freshen up … and please put something nice on … no jeans!”

She made a mental note to phone Carol and John to inform them about their daughter’s job offer, after they returned from supper.

Hoping that Maddy would agree, Maria and Jenny had tentatively worked out that she could return to Bad Neuenahr the Sunday following the end of school and then go back to Warsop the last week in August, in time to get set for university.

When the girls joined the rest of the family at the door, Dave was holding out his hand.

“Gaby … the keys?”

As they were driving away from the house, Jenny informed Maddy that George would be dropping by around nine am the next day, to meet her. She also mentioned that he said to tell Maddy that Apollinaris would take care of her return transportation between Manchester and Bonn, once she signed on with the team for the summer.

All three girls were very impressed with Jenny’s choice of restaurant when they saw it was in the five-star Steigenberger Bad Neuenahr Hotel.

“Now aren’t you girl’s glad I asked you to change?” Jenny smugly whispered as they were shown to their table.

Once everyone was comfortably seated, Maddy decided to ask Gaby’s parents a question that had been on her mind.

“Ummm ... can I ask you two a question?...”

“Ask away,” Jenny playfully replied.

“Warsop College’s year-end disco is next Friday … and ... it’ll be my last chance to go. I was kind of wondering if it would be possible … for Gaby to take me?”

“Shouldn’t you be asking her?” Dave quietly asked.

“I guess I wanted to see how you two felt about it, first.”

Seeing Gaby’s dubious expression, she quickly added, “It won’t be like the other times … I promise! If you go … it'll be as my date, not as a girl friend.”

“Gaby? It’s totally up to you, dear.”

Dave and Jules were listening intently, looking back and forth, from the girls to Jenny. They were quickly beginning to feel like they were watching a tennis match.

Putting her hand over Maddy’s, Gaby simply replied, “I’d really like that … but what about Mr. Woods and the others … will they allow it?”

“I’m pretty sure they would. Mr. Woods still stresses ‘tolerance’ of others … but I’ll talk to him when I get back, anyway ... okay, darling?”

It was the first time Maddy used that word since before the cheer competition and its impact on Gaby didn’t go unnoticed. Jenny quickly produced a tissue with practised precision and offered it to her youngest, while Maddy continued to explain about the dance.

“I should warn you that it’ll be formal. All the Upper-Sixth decided we’d make our last one, special...”

“Oh,” Gaby quietly uttered. “I ... umm ... don’t have one ... Mum?”

“Don’t worry ... we’ll find you something,” Jenny said reassuringly.

“I’ve got mine put away … but I wanted to hear what you thought before I bought it.”

“Mum … I could leave on Friday an’ spend the weekend? … Mad and I could fly back on Sunday.”

“Why not return on Saturday?” Jenny inquired.

“I’d kinda like to see everyone, if they’re around … an’ maybe talk to Em,” Gaby quietly replied.

Jenny looked at Dave before turning back and facing Gaby.

“Okay … but you have to check on the flights for Friday morning and let us know. Maybe you could squeeze in a morning ride and still get to the airport at a reasonable time.”

“Thanks!” Gaby smiled at Maddy and gave her hand a squeeze.

After an enjoyable meal, they walked the grounds of the hotel for a while before heading back for a quiet evening and to let Maddy settle in.

“You girls have plans for tomorrow?” Jenny later asked as they were getting ready to call it a night and go upstairs.

Kat and I were going to take Mad into Bad Neuenahr an’ show her around the place,” Gaby cheerfully replied as they both stood at the bottom of the stairs.

Both girls felt like they just fell asleep when Jenny peaked in the door the next morning.

“Guten Morgen! Kat just phoned saying she was running a bit behind and that she’d be here in about an hour … so if you get up now … she’ll never know that you also slept in.”

Gaby thought her mum sounded way too cheerful for that time in the morning! As she rolled onto her side and opened her eyes, her gaze fell upon Maddy looking back at her.

“Guten Morgen, Liebling.”

Gaby leaned over and gently pulled her into a long loving kiss. When they finally surfaced for air, the two continued to lie in bed, holding each other.

Running her fingers through her girlfriend’s hair, Maddy softly asked, “What’s Gooten-morgen Leeb-ling or whatever you said, mean?”

“Guten Morgen … Liebling … it’s German for ‘good morning, darling’,” Gaby quietly replied.

“I love you, Gabs ... and I don’t want to ever lose you … not now… not ever…” Maddy whispered just before she pulled Gaby into a passionate lip-lock of her own.

“If you want a shower, you can use Mum an’ Dad's.”

“You go first … I’ll have mine after you. I just wanna stay in your bed for as long as I can.”

Maddy gave her a soft kiss on the lips before sending her on her way.

Later, when Gaby wandered back into the room, she reluctantly got out of bed and headed off for her shower. When she returned, Maddy saw that Gaby was already in jeans and a bra.

“You planning on wearing a top ... or going out like that?” Maddy sweetly joked.

“Naw ... I’ve thought about it ... but I think I’ll wear this,” Gaby playfully replied while reaching for the plum coloured tank top beside her.

“Well, don’t dry your hair. If you wait a few minutes ... we can do each other,” Maddy suggested as Gaby was finishing brushing out her damp hair.

“Okay,” Gaby replied while plugging in her blow-dryer.

Later, while pulling up her own jeans, Maddy noticed a framed photo of Gaby on the dresser.

“I’d guess this was taken not long after your fourteenth birthday, right?” she asked while nodding to the photo.

“Dad took that in the terminal at Manchester … when we left for Germany.”

“Is that Jessica’s feather, I keep hearing about?” pointing to the photo. “Ally’s told me about it ... several times.”

“She gave me some of her other Indian stuff besides what I’m wearing in that photo … I also got some earrings an’ a pair of moccasin boots.”

Pointing to her wall over her bed, Gaby added, “Jules and I still have our dream-catchers, too!"

“I noticed that last night. It looks like the one I had over my bed when I stayed at her place.”

“Actually … it’s the one that was above Jess’ bed. Jules has the one that was over your bed.”

“It must work … I had a lovely sleep last night...” Maddy mischievously cooed as she pulled Gaby into a lingering kiss.

“You still have Jessica’s stuff?” she quietly asked when they parted.

“I keep everything in this box. The feathers are too fragile to keep with the rest of my jewellery … an’ the moccasin’s are in my dresser … under my nightdresses,” Gaby revealed as she pulled out a box from her top drawer and took it over to her bed. She carefully removed the contents and laid them on the bed for Maddy to examine.

“Wear them for me, today? ... Please?”

“The moccasin’s too?” Gaby asked.

“Uh huh.”

“Okay ... guess it’s dry enough outside.” Gaby then went back to her dresser and retrieved a pair of ankle socks with her moccasin boots.

“...And these earrings, too?” Maddy sweetly asked as she held out a pair of earrings, each with a single feather.

Once the girls finished dressing and drying each other’s hair, Gaby sat on the side of the bed and selected a bit of hair on the left side of her head and proceeded to braid in the leather string for her Hawk feather. She then put on her wide beaded choker and the earrings Maddy picked out, while her girlfriend watched every move. Before she stood up, she took the Moccasin boots Maddy held and pulled them on.

As she stood in front of her, Maddy took her in her arms and softly whispered, “Ally was right ... you do look very sexy in those.”

They only broke their kiss when they both heard a muffled sound from the door. Maddy was a bit taken aback when she opened her eyes. Looking over Gaby’s shoulder, she saw Kat standing in the bedroom doorway.

“Uh … hi … Kat. How long have you been there?”

“Just arrived,” Kat quietly replied as she entered the room and offered Maddy a hug. “Willkommen.”

Examining Gaby as she walked past her, Kat commented, “Mad twist your arm to wear them?”

“She asked me!” Gaby playfully corrected her friend.

Turning to Maddy, Kat smugly offered, “Gut for you! I tried to tell her long ago that she should wear them more often … but she does not listen. That look suits her … do you not think?”

“Definitely,” Maddy suggestively agreed.

“George is supposed to be coming over to see Mad before we go out … so we’ll have to hang around until they’re done,” Gaby explained to Kat as the girl’s left her room.

Shortly before nine, Dave answered the door and took George into his den where Maddy was already waiting. After he introduced the two, he left the room to let them talk.

About a half hour later, they emerged with George declaring that Maddy was now officially the newest member of the Team Apollinaris organization, even if it was only for the summer.

Considering it was already much later than they had planned to start exploring the shops, the girls decided to leave and get something to eat once they got to town.

While the girls explored what Bad Neuenahr had to offer, Gaby noted her girlfriend hadn’t lost any of her fondness of shopping and as far as Maddy was concerned, this was all new territory for her to conquer! They hit all the clothing, craft and jewellery stores they came across.

It was after looking in a couple of the display cases in one jewellery store, Gaby suddenly mentioned that Jenny suggested that Jules and her get ‘registered’. After suggesting Maddy also ‘register’ with the store, Kat started to say something until Gaby turned and glared at her.

“What was that all about? I know your mama said nothing of the kind … certainly not in that store!” Kat later whispered after they got outside and Maddy was distracted with a window display.

“Trust me ... I have my reasons,” Gaby mysteriously replied in a hushed voice.

The rest of the day was spent showing Maddy the town and all it had to offer and later that afternoon, the three left Bad Neuenahr to drive Kat back to her place.

Sunday was set aside for the two girls to quietly spend together, talking. Time seemed to pass all too quickly before Jenny informed the kids they had to take Maddy into Bonn.

At the airport, it was an emotional good-bye which was only made easier knowing that they’d see each other in a week’s time. As she walked through the boarding gate, Maddy was seen carrying her ‘roses’.

It was a couple of days later that Jenny began to notice how quiet Gaby was, particularly when she wasn’t training or hanging around with her friends. She’d also noticed that Jules and her sister seemed to be in deep conversation, much more than usual.

Finally curiosity got the better of Jenny and she couldn’t take it anymore and she decided that it was time for a mother-daughter chat. Later after dinner, she found Gaby alone on the couch in the lounge, reading a pocketbook.

“Gaby … is there anything you want to talk to me about?” Jenny asked as she sat down beside her daughter.

“How does she do that? “ Gaby thought to herself.

“Yeah … but I was gonna wait a bit before I talked to you.”

“Oh? … And how much longer would that be?”

“… dunno ...” Jenny noted Gaby’s uneasiness.

“Now’s as good of time as any...” Jenny softly offered. Gaby took a deep breath and braced herself for a conversation she knew had to happen.

“Maddy’s going off for a few more years at UMIST.”

“You’ll still be able to see her every so often.”

Looking at her mother, Gaby took another deep breath and laid it out.

“Mum? You know ‘ow I feel about Mad. I can’t bear the possibility of losing her again … not now! This weekend just proved to us ‘ow we still feel about each other.”

“And…” Jenny softly added.

“When she’s at UMIST … I want her to know I’m here!”

“And…” Jenny prompted.

“I’ve decided ... that ... I’m going to ask her to marry me!” Gaby stated with firm conviction. Catching her mother off guard, she continued. “We’ll wait until one of us graduates and gets a proper job … but I want her to have her diamond while she’s at school.”

While Jenny sat back in shock staring at her daughter, Jules walked into the room and upon seeing her mother's face, abruptly turned around to head back out.

“Get back in here, Jules! I take it … this is what you’ve been discussing with your sister these last couple of days?” Jules meekly nodded.

“Well?” Jenny prompted, glaring at her oldest daughter.

“Well … everybody had always thought these two would stay together … even get married!”

“Yes … DREW and Maddy!” Jenny snapped back. As soon as the words left her mouth, she wished she never said them.

“MUM!” Jules shrieked. Gaby broke down and started to run out of the room, making Jules lunge to grab her sister as she ran past.

“How can you even think that? When Drew and Maddy fell in love ... it wasn’t with my brother ... it was with a girl named Gaby ... my sister and your youngest daughter ... and you know as well as I do that the only thing that kept Gabs together over the last four-and-a-half years was her belief that deep down, they still loved each other and that they’d get back together. Anyway ... you can’t tell me that you weren’t just as excited as they were, to see those two in each others arms!”

“I know, Jules ... and I’m sorry for saying what I did.”

“Tell ‘er ... not me!” Jules spat out. Turning her attention to Gaby, Jenny restated her apology.

“I’m very sorry, darling. We all knew this day would come if you two were still together and I want to see both of you happy as much as anyone else ... but...”

Gaby didn’t respond to her mother as she clung to her sister like a scared little girl. After Jenny tried to further apologize, Jules’ vicious defence of her sister became more of a calm discussion.

“Mum ... think back. At anytime during the weekend, did they ever try to pretend they were anything but a couple? You and I both know you know the answer to that ... don’t you? You saw them in the house and around town the same as I did ... and so did everyone else. I’ll even bet that when Mad left, they kissed right in the middle of the terminal where everyone could see them ... and it was a lot more than a peck on the cheek … wasn’t it?”

“A whole lot more...” Jenny quietly agreed.

“Lemee guess ... nobody cared and you didn’t say anything … right?” Jenny remained predictably silent.

“This marriage thing isn’t some spur-of-the-moment idea that Gabs came up with when she was bored. She’s given it a lot of thought and she knows exactly what she’s doing! When we talked, she was very worried that they’d be pulled into the same mess that she had to deal with back in Grottoes.”

“Won’t they?”

“I doubt it! I told her that all she had to do is look around. You realize that ever since we moved here, Gaby’s always been open about her preferences when anyone asked. She made that decision because of what ‘hiding’ did for the two of them in Virginia ... and she’s never regretted it,” Jules calmly pointed.

“True ... I admit people here have accepted her,” Jenny weakly agreed.

“Not just here, Mum. People all over are more tolerant than they were a few years ago. Look at all the countries that now either have or are moving to, same-sex legislation. How can they do that if the majority of people in that country didn’t agree? Even if sis stays with cycling an’ turned pro … fans wouldn’t even blink twice with her ‘coming out’. You know it and so do I! All one has to do is read about all the other celebrities and sports figures that have come ‘out’ and ‘it’ certainly hasn’t hurt their popularity… “

As Jenny was getting drawn into the validity of her daughter’s words, Jules kept going.

“Current German and English law says they can legally get married with all the same benefits as heterosexual married couples … so why not let them? All these two want is a chance to have the kind of life together that you and Dad have had. Is that so terrible?” Still holding her sister close to her, Jules made her final point. “You and everyone else were right. These two are destined for a life together … but as Maddy and Gaby! For years, we’ve all accepted that and we’ve seen them together too often, not to. All she wanted from you, Mum … was your blessing. She’s already got mine … and Dad’s. You know Maddy's parents will agree with them tying the knot ... and by looking at you right now, I’d say you agree, too … don’t you?“

“Yes,” Jenny tearfully whispered. Gaby was still sobbing into her sister’s shoulder and didn’t hear her mother.

When Jenny rose from her seat to give Jules an apologetic hug, she knew everything her oldest daughter had said, was right. Moving as much on maternal instinct as guilt, she then knelt in front of Gaby.

“I’m sorry, darling … can you forgive me? Your sister was right. We all knew this day would come when Maddy came back in your life and I certainly can’t blame you for wanting to claim her as quickly as possible. I only hope she knows the value of the ‘jewel’ being offered to her.”

“Thanks, Mum ... I think she does ... now.”

“The only thing I can say in my defence is that I guess hearing you actually say you wanted to marry her … just … threw me. I know I handled that rather badly … I’m sorry, darling...”

While Jenny quietly apologized, she drew Gaby into a long and emotional maternal hug while Jules watched.

“When do you plan to ask her, dear?” Jenny softly wondered as Gaby looked up at her mum.

(sniff) “Friday night … before the dance. (sniff) The jeweller promised to have all the rings sized and ready for me to pickup Thursday evening. (sniff) I should be able to get there before they close if Maria doesn’t find some reason to keep us ... an’ Jules drives me into town.”

“I’ll make sure Maria doesn’t keep you,” Jenny playfully whispered. A weak smile managed to cross her daughter’s face.

“How’d you get her ring size?” Jenny softly wondered.

“When Kat and I took Mad into town last (sniff) Saturday. We went into a jewellery store an’ I gave her some (sniff) story of how you thought it’d be a good idea if Jules and I were ‘registered’ ... I then suggested that she might like to get ‘registered’ as well.” (sniff)

Jenny sat back on the couch and cuddled with her daughter as they spoke.

“You really had this all planned, didn’t you?” Jenny softly observed.

“Ever since she called...”

“Where’d you get the money ... the sponsorship money you set aside for your university?”

“I had to, Mum...” Gaby quietly admitted.

“While I don’t agree with what you did ... I understand why you did it. I think I would’ve done the same thing if I thought it was the only way to hold onto someone I love. I hope Maddy knows how much of a lucky girl she is ... to have someone who loves her as much as you do.”

(sniff)

“When did you actually buy them?” Jenny softly asked.

“Yesterday … Jules drove me into town during lunch.” (sniff)

“What exactly did you mean when you said ‘all the rings’?” Jenny wondered.

“I got two identical wedding band sets,” Gaby softly admitted.

“Planning a double ring ceremony, are we?”

Blotting her eyes, Gaby regained her composure.

“Uh huh ... like you and Dad. I know Maddy talked about having a ‘double ring’ wedding back when we were kids.”

“Does that mean ... two diamonds?” Jenny wondered.

“We’re both girls...” Gaby sniffed.

“Who make a very beautiful couple...” Jenny closed her eyes as she whispered into her daughter’s ear while wrapping her arms around her in a simple hug.

“We’ll make sure you get into town before the jeweller’s closes tomorrow ... okay, darling?” Jenny quietly offered in a soothing voice while gently pushing some tear-soaked hair off Gaby’s face.

“Love you, Mum...” Gaby then gave her mum a big squeeze.

 
 
Comments are Greatly Appreciated!

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To Be Continued...
 

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Viewing Note: This story should be viewed with the Edwardian Script ITC font installed on your Windows platform in the c:/Windows/Fonts directory. Microsoft Word installs this font automatically.

Photo Credit: Licensed royalty free. Provided by PD Photo.org .

 

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Chapter 2
 
“C’mon on, Gabs! Mum and Dad are waiting in the car!” Jules called out. Sometimes it was hard to tell which sister was the more anxious, Jules or Gaby.

“No sauna?” Gaby caught the towel tossed at her as she started to leave for the day.

“Sorry, Kris … gotta go before the stores close!” Gaby exclaimed as she tossed the towel back to Kristen.

“What’s the occasion?” Nina questioned.

“Later … I promise! “ With that Gaby flew out the double doors of the workout room.

She quickly joined the others in the car and they made their way into Bad Neuenahr.

When they arrived in town, they left the car in one of the public car parks and quickly made their way through the pedestrian street’s that make up much of the old shopping district. After a short walk, they stopped outside the same jeweller’s that she visited with Maddy and Kat on the previous weekend.

Upon entering the small store, a sales clerk recognized Gaby and directed her to a counter.

“Einen Moment bitte.” She then disappeared into a back room and after a short time, re-emerged with two ring boxes.

“Well … let’s see them, dear. Open up!” Gaby thought her mum sounded like a little kid at Christmas.

She felt a bit nervous when she opened both boxes for the family to inspect. There before them, sat two pair of virtually identical rings.

“Darling! They’re beautiful!” Jenny quietly enthused. Jules readily agreed with her mum.

“The clerk called ‘em ‘Traditional Celtic’,” Gaby offered. “Once I saw them ... I knew I had to get them ... for Dad an’ Gramps.”

“Thanks, Petal...” Dave whispered despite the growing lump in his throat. “Dad would’ve been so proud of her.”

Each of the diamond rings had a solitaire diamond set in a yellow-gold band that was the width of the stone. A raised ‘Celtic Knot’ chain, in white-gold, encircled the outside of the band. A similarly raised border of yellow-gold on each side of the band finished the rings. Each box also contained a matching wedding band.

“I thought that because of the ‘Celtic Knot’ design, it was better to get the matching wedding bands now, instead of gambling that I’d be able to find them at a later time,” Gaby explained to no one in particular.

“I’m even amazed that Gabs found this design, here. It’s not exactly the kind of thing you’d think a small jewellery store in the Ahr valley would carry,” Jules remarked.

“You know Maddy’s going to love these?” Jenny whispered. Gaby could see that her mother’s eyes were getting moist.

Since the rings were fully paid for, Gaby just had to gather up her purchases, thank the clerk and leave. Once out of the store, Dave threw a sorrowful look at his youngest daughter and squeezed her hand.

“I can’t believe our baby’s getting married,” Jenny choked back.

Looking at both her parents, Gaby realised that it was one thing for them to hear her talk about her plans, but now they had actually seen the rings, those plans had become real.

“I’m not getting married tomorrow, Mum. Mad has to say ‘yes’ ... an’ she’s still looking at four-and-a-half years at UMIST.”

When they reached their car Gaby turned and hugged both of her parents. “You’re not loosing me...”

“Just when they had their hopes up!” Jules playfully quipped.

“I love you too, sis…” Gaby replied with a smile, as they all got into the car.

Next morning, it was business as usual, with all the Bond’s heading for the Apollinaris facility. When they arrived, George quickly cornered them.

“Ah, der Bonds ... Guten Morgen. There’s been a change of plans, Gabi. Der team must leave within the hour instead of lunchtime. You’ll still come mit us und be dropped hoff at Manchester und der team vill fly back to France for the ‘Tour de Feminine’, as planned.”

“Are you sure, George?” Gaby weakly protested. “Dad could drive me to Bonn later and I’d grab a flight from there.”

“Call me cupid...” George whispered as he winked at Jenny.

“Well, kiddo ... looks like you’ll have to forget any plans for a morning ride. I’ll get your bag from the car,” Dave offered before his daughter could say anything else.

Gaby knew that since the race organizers were responsible for arranging all the team's ground transportation, Corporate had gone and chartered a Boeing 737 at the beginning of the 2008 season to give the pro team the extended global reach they needed to get to all the races on the World Cup circuit that they had been invited to .

The trip from Bad Neuenahr to the airport with the Pro team and the loading of the plane was just a blur for Gaby. Sitting back in her seat as the aircraft took off, she found time to think. One benefit of not taking a commercial flight meant that she wouldn’t have to worry about getting her connecting flight from Heathrow to Manchester, cutting her trip by about two hours and a bit.

However, it soon occurred to her that she’d not had time to warn Maddy or Carol of the change in plans.

“I’ll have to ask George if it’s okay to use the plane’s phone when we level off so I can warn Carol of the change in plans. I knew I shoulda brought my mobile. Betcha Mad’s already at the school helping the other seniors get things ready for tonight. Depending on the time, maybe I could ask Carol to stop in and surprise her and possibly see Mr. Woods or Miss C. again?”

“Hello … Auntie Carol? Ummm ... where am I? Ummm … in a 737 leaving German airspace an’ heading for Manchester. No, that’s okay! You still got a bit of time…”

Gaby listened to Carol for a minute and then got into the reason for her call.

“I’m calling because I’ve got a favour to ask. Can you meet me at the airport … like … in about ninety minutes ... give or take? No ... not at the ‘Arrivals’ … I’m not on a commercial flight. Oh ... okay.”

Carol made Gaby hold while she grabbed a pen and paper to write down any new instructions. A minute later she was back on the phone.

“...The team chartered a plane for the race season an’ I’ve hitched a ride with them. You’ll have to meet me over on the side where all the private stuff goes … at ‘FlightLink’ ... just as it sounds ... all one word. You see the ‘FlightLink’ sign when you drive along that long road that goes into the main terminal ... yeah, that’s it ... over there! Thanks ever so much ... see you in a bit!“

As she listened to Carol talking about the impending visit, Gaby heard her name being called.

“Be right there Tina! … Auntie Carol? Sorry to cut you off, but I’m being paged by one of the team … before I go, though … remind me to show you something … no ... I have to show you. You’ll just have to wait ‘til we see each other. Later’s …‘bye”.

“Bet Carol’s going nuts right now, trying to figure out what I have to show her,” Gaby smirked to herself as she hung up the phone and walked back to her seat.

“What are you looking so smug about … Frá¤ulein Bond?” Tina asked as she rose to allow her travelling partner to get back into her seat.

“Ahhh … a girl’s gotta have some mystery,” Gaby coyly replied.

“Mein Gott! … Gerade wie Ihre Mutter!” Mumbled Tina.

“What?”

“I said … Just like your muv-atter!” Tina hissed a bit louder than she intended.

“Danke!” Gaby playfully replied as both started laughing.

George just looked across the aisle at the two of them, smiled and shook his head, before lying back in his seat and closing his eyes.

Having seen the way those two got along on and off the bike, he was quite sure the day would come when he’d have another Bond — Porsche duo riding for the team. He knew Jenny, he knew Tina and he’d come to know Gaby in the few years she’d been in Germany.

It was a little before eleven in the morning, when the Boeing 737 touched down in Manchester. The aircraft taxied up in front of ‘FlightLink’ and with the engines idling just long enough for Gaby to de-plane, the team was once again on the move.

After walking the short distance across the apron to the small terminal, she didn’t have to wait long in the lounge before Carol walked in.

“I have to make one or two stops first ... but I thought if the traffic gods are kind to us … we’ll stop by the school and pick Maddy up. How’s that sound?”

“You read my mind ... I was just going to ask you that! Ummm ... those traffic gods don’t require a sacrifice or anything ... do they?” Gaby playfully replied.

“Don’t worry ... I offered up John’s old football jersey,” Carol joked.

“Please say it wasn’t his ‘Red Devils’* jersey! That was signed by the whole team!”

“Good God, no! Do I look like I have a death wish? Besides ... we’ve finally got it re-framed and back up in his study. This was his old jersey from his team at work. They got new one’s last week,” Carol smirked.

By the grace of lighter-than-usual-traffic and her driving, Carol made all the stops she wanted in Manchester and still arrived at Warsop College a good half an hour before the kids were officially let out for the year. After she turned into the school’s carpark and pulled into a vacant spot, Carol quickly shut off the ignition and turned on her passenger.

“Okay, young lady … now what’s this that you have to show me?” Carol impatiently asked.

“Can it wait until you and Uncle John are together ... without Maddy?” Gaby replied.

“You’d have a better chance of Maddy not knowing, if you show me now … and I can tell her father in private.”

“Yeah … I guess you’re right. She was always nosey!”

“Still is…” Carol replied with a smile.

Gaby went into her bag and took out a small ring box. Opening it slowly, she revealed the two diamond rings.

“Gabeeeeee!” Carol squealed as her eyes quickly misted over. “Are you sure?”

“Never more sure of anything in my life. You know how I’ve always felt about her … an’ … I’m not going to chance losing her again when she goes to UMIST.”

Carol knew exactly what Gaby meant as she smiled at her future daughter-in-law.

“That ‘Mother-in-law’ remark the first time I visited you in Germany. You knew then … didn’t you?”

“I knew what I wanted … if she did,” Gaby softly replied.

“If anyone deserves this … it’s you two. As soon as Parliament passed that law … I thought about you ... and Maddy finding herself. Congratulations,” Carol quietly remarked as she leaned over the car’s centre console and gave Gaby a long hug.

“She still has to say ‘yes’,” Gaby’s voice was subdued and reflective.

“Ohhh … I’m fairly sure she will,” Carol replied while giving Gaby’s hand a couple of squeezes. Upon further examination of the rings, she glanced at her niece and exclaimed, “They’re gorgeous, Gaby!”

“I left the wedding bands with mum. She’s supposed to be putting them in our safety deposit box at the bank.”

“You’ve got the wedding bands?” Carol quietly asked.

“I wasn’t going to chance not being able to get the matching bands at a later date,” Gaby replied.

“How will this affect your plans for university?” Carol wondered.

“I want us to finish our schooling an’ at least one of us to have a job before we start any serious planning,” Carol took another long look at the rings before she let Gaby return them to her bag.

“We both know she’s going to say ‘yes’ … don’t we?”

Carol laid her hand on Gaby’s arm in a hopeful gesture of support, then turned and then slowly re-directed her attention back to her book.

“Go on, dear. I know you want to go in...” Carol softly prodded.

Gaby nervously checked her make-up for the umpteenth time before getting out. Hiding behind the opened passenger door, she took the opportunity to give another tug to the hem of her denim mini skirt before bending down and peering back into the car.

“Do I look okay?”

“You look fine, Gaby … now relax … and go collect your bride!”

“We’re not married yet, Mum...” Gaby playfully pointed out.

“You will be...” Carol softly replied, with a chuckle.

Once inside Warsop College, Gaby was met by an empty main corridor that seemed to be devoid of all forms of life. “It seems forever since I stood here.”

While standing and looking at the mother-daughter ‘team’ portrait that Jenny had donated to the school, Gaby heard faint voices and turned to see Mr. Woods coming out of the staff lounge, deep in conversation with Mrs. Johnston.

“Miss Bond?? … Gaby?? … Good Lord! … It is you!” Mr. Woods enthused as he saw the distant lone figure grinning back at him. Both administrators quickly closed the short distance to the former student.

“Hello Sir … Mrs. Johnston,” Gaby greeted her former headmaster and assistant headmaster.

“Definitely not the young lady who left here!” Mr. Woods quietly exclaimed as the two staff members stood looking at Gaby. “The resemblance to your mum is even more striking than it is in that photo.”

“Thank you.”

What brings you here? ... Visiting?” Mrs. Johnston inquired.

“Maddy … actually.”

“Why am I not surprised?” Mr. Woods remarked. “She has to pass here … final bell hasn’t gone yet…”

“Can I ask you something, Sir? When I spoke with her last evening she’d been unable to speak with you … but I wonder if she was able to have a word with you today?”

“About tonight’s disco? Yes, she did. I saw her briefly this morning and she explained your ... relationship … and her wish to have you accompany her … in her words …’as her date’.”

“And?” Gaby anxiously asked.

“I told her that it was a bit unusual for the College … but considering the times we live in, I saw no problems with her request.”

“Thank you, sir! … Sir? Do you happen to know if Miss Cowlishaw will be there as well?”

“I know Maddy told her that you may be at tonight’s festivities … so I doubt you’ll be able to keep her away!” Mr. Woods replied with a smile.

“And Gaby? I look forward to seeing the both of you there, as well … and you can tell me all about your national championship!”

“Sir?”

“I have my sources, Miss Bond … you should know that!” Mr. Woods smugly replied.

(Brriiiinnngg)

At exactly three PM, the final bell sounded and the corridors quickly filled with excited students. The trio quickly moved to one side, content to let the sea of humanity pass, until they heard a not-so-faint voice call out in the wilderness.

“Gaby!”

Maddy quickly wound her way through all the other students clogging the hall. Finally reaching her target, she stopped short and turned to Mr. Woods with pleading eyes.

“Ohhhh …. go ahead, Miss Peters! Other students do it in the corridor, so why should you be any different? Besides … I’m hardly going to start to discriminate now … am I?” Mr. Woods couldn’t hide his smile on seeing the two back together.

With the Headmaster’s approval, she threw her arms around Gaby’s neck and planted a kiss squarely on her lips! One could swear the noise level in the corridor, immediately dropped to zero.

“Thank-you, Sir! See you tonight!” Maddy excitedly bade the two staff members’ good-bye.

As the girls were leaving, a path that crossed through the crowded corridor and ended at the main doors, seemed to magically open before them. Feeling a bit like Moses with the parting of the Rea Sea, the girls exited the building and quickly got into the waiting car with Carol. In a few minutes they were safely at Chez Peter’s.

After Gaby was installed in the guest room, the three ladies congregated in the kitchen, catching up on events. When John came home for tea, she had no problem finding a reason to take Maddy out of the room so her parents could talk.

Later, the only indication Gaby had that Carol even mentioned anything to her husband was when they returned to help set the table, John gave her a knowing smile and nodded his head. Following tea and the washing up, Carol announced that it was time for the girls to start getting ready for the big night.

After their respective showers Carol did her best to blow-dry and brush each girl’s hair. She was relieved to learn that her hairdressing skills wouldn’t be challenged since both girls wanted it left long and straight.

“Do you want yours parted on the side, like Maddy’s?” Carol asked.

“Ummm ... I think I’ll stay with it in the middle ... for now” Gaby thoughtfully replied.

At Maddy’s request, Gaby had brought her feather earrings to wear. She also gave Carol her ‘dream-catcher’ earrings to pass onto Maddy so both girls could have a similar aboriginal influence to their outfits.

While Gaby was finishing getting dressed, she nervously thought about what she was planning and Maddy’s possible reaction. After zipping herself up and nervously re-checking her make-up, she decided she couldn’t delay any longer.

Walking out of the guest room, she carefully descended the stairs as her mum showed her and made her entrance into the lounge where Maddy’s parents waited. Although they had seen ‘Gaby’ many times in earlier days, this was the first time either one had seen her in a formal.

“Carol!” John quietly prompted his wife when he saw Gaby walking towards them.

“You look exactly like Jen when she was your age,” Carol gushed when she looked up from her seat.

Gaby stood in their midst wearing a black satin, bias cut gown and black open-toed sandals with a three inch heel. Her jewellery was kept equally simple, consisting of a plain black velvet choker, her feather earrings and a watch. Her long, mousey-blonde hair, lightened with highlights for the occasion, reached to the middle of her back and provided a welcome contrast against her black gown.

“Do I look okay?” she innocently asked, as she did a slow twirl for Maddy’s parents.

“You look very pretty, dear…” Carol quietly allowed. John quickly agreed.

“Thank you,” Gaby shyly replied.

A minute or two later, Gaby turned to look as Maddy came down the stairs and entered the room. She was wearing a sleeveless burgundy floor length gown, with a V-neck and a full skirt. Like Gaby, she was wearing a pair of black dress open-toe sandals with three-inch heels.

A lump began to form in Gaby’s throat when she saw the silver double-heart shaped locket around Maddy’s neck. Although now on a longer silver chain, it was unmistakably the one Drew had given her on her fourteenth birthday.

Like Gaby, she kept her jewellery simple with a watch and a plain white gold chain bracelet on her wrists in addition to the locket. Catching sight of the ‘dream-catcher’ earrings when Maddy quickly turned her head, Gaby thought they definitely looked better on her.

“You look … beautiful … Mad…” Gaby breathed.

“So do you…” Maddy softly replied.

Un-noticed by either girl, John and Carol quietly retreated out of the girls sight, to the dining room, but still within earshot.

Gaby gently took Maddy by the hand and led her to the couch where they both sat down. Looking directly into her girlfriend’s eyes and taking both of her hands in her own, she spoke in a quiet voice.

“Mad … not long after we first started hanging around each other and the ‘gang’ … I first told myself that I fancied you …an’ later … it was easy to admit that I’d fallen in love with you. Even after learning I was born a girl ... I still loved you ... an’ not being with you for four of the hardest an’ loneliest years of my life … if anything ... only made me want you in my arms, even more. Now you tell me that I’m looking at being apart from you for another four-plus years while you’re at UMIST ... an’ I don’t think I can take that … not without knowing you’d still be there for me…”

“I...” Maddy began. Gaby softly continued after giving Maddy’s hands a gentle squeeze.

“...Please?” Gaby softly pleaded before taking a second to compose herself. “Attitudes an’ laws are changing all over … an’ ... we can do this now ... if you want to ... it’s just one little word…”

Tears of joy were beginning to run down Maddy’s face as she anticipated her girlfriend’s intentions. Gaby then slowly opened her closed right hand, exposing a diamond ring.

“I love you, Mad …an’ I need you in my life. Will you marry me … an’ stay with me … as my wife?”

“Oh, shit!” Maddy whispered. “I mean … I … oh, God! … yes … YES!”

Gaby then gently took her left hand and slipped the diamond onto her ‘ring’ finger. After she retrieved the other ring from her bag, she presented it to Maddy and quietly asked, “Would you?”

“I guess this means you’re going to be my wife?” Maddy tearfully joked.

“Yes…” Gaby quietly replied while unsuccessfully fighting her own tears.

Maddy then slipped Gaby’s diamond onto her ‘ring’ finger after which both girls sealed their engagement with a lingering kiss, only to have the moment interrupted a short time later by some quiet sniffling, emanating from the direction of the dining room.

As they sat up and turned towards the noise, Maddy’s parents came back into the lounge. Carol immediately offered the girls the box of tissues that she had in her hand. Once all eyes were dried, both girls presented their left hands for close inspection.

“About bloody time you two came to your senses! …Congratulations!” John remarked. Both John and Carol gave each girl a big hug and a kiss on the cheek. “I’ll get the car.”

“Could you call Mum while we’re out an’ see if she managed to put the wedding bands in a safety deposit box at the bank? I don’t need to loose track of them now,” Gaby asked as Carol broke her hug.

“I have to call her anyway. You think she’s not going to hear about this?” Carol replied with a huge grin.

“Better shake a leg if you expect to get to the school by seven … and fix your make-up. You don’t want to go looking like that, do you? John’s out in the car, waiting to drive you two ladies to the ball.”

The girls quickly checked themselves over and went outside to the car. Playing up the role of chauffeur, Maddy’s dad held the rear door open while inviting the girls to get in.

“Ladies?” John offered, gesturing towards the opened rear door with his hand.

Living the moment, Maddy casually replied, “Thank you, John … Warsop College, please.”

“Very good m’lady.” After both girls were comfortably in the back seat, he then closed the door and got behind the wheel.

After a few minutes, Mr. Peters pulled into the car park at Warsop College and instead of stopping in one of the parking slots, he went around and pulled the car up to the front steps of the school. Once he put the car in park, he got out and opened the back door for the girls.

“We have arrived … m’lady,” Mr. Peters intoned as he held the door for the girls to exit. Both girls, especially Gaby, tried real hard to stifle a few giggles.

“Thank you, Daddy. I have my mobile, so I’ll call when we’re leaving … that okay? We’ll try not to be too late.”

Maddy gave her dad a peck on the cheek, then gently took her fiancée’s hand and watched as he drove off.

Gaby looked at her old school and mumbled something about ‘in for a penny’. The two took a deep breath, looked at each other and then at the school’s entrance.

“Well … we’re here now … an’ your dad’s left. Only one way to go. (sigh) Shall we?”

“Now I know how Dorothy felt before seeing the wizard,” Maddy softly commented. Gaby just looked at her.

“You know … Dorothy … the Wizard of Oz?”

“Just hope we don’t meet the wicked witch,” Gaby replied.

“We won’t … unless Cynthia shows up!” She immediately started giggling and soon had Gaby joining her.

All during this time kids and other couples arrived, so after agreeing to press on, they started up the ‘yellow brick road’ to the main doors of the school. They didn’t get far inside when Maddy slowed her pace.

“I need some water!” she hissed, but with a smirk that betrayed her feelings.

“Why?” Gaby quietly inquired.

“The wicked witch is up ahead.”

Maddy motioned to a group of girls who were hanging around outside the gym with their boyfriends. As they approached the small group, Maddy greeted Cynthia and the others.

“Hi, guys...”

“Maddy dear … when will you learn? You’re a big girl now. You’re supposed to bring a date to these things … not your girl friends!“

Gaby just glared at Cynthia. “Meeeowww!”

Maddy quickly looked at Gaby and turning back to face her long-time tormentor, sweetly replied, “Actually … she’s my fiancée.”

The two girls then held up their left hands, palms facing inwards and took great pleasure in watching Cynthia’s jaw hit the floor. They thought the look on her face was priceless!

Only one of the girls in the group seemed initially uncomfortable as they ‘outted’ themselves to Maddy’s fellow students. The remaining girls were more interested in looking at their rings and questioning the two girls on their relationship. A few minutes later, even the one girl who’d initially held back became caught up in the moment.

After introducing her friends to Gaby, Maddy formally introduced her.

“Guys … meet Gaby!”

“You’re the girl who races bikes … and that’s your photo hanging by the main doors … isn’t it?”

“Yes ... on both counts.”

“The Head sometimes mentions you at our assemblies…”

“Maddy?” Gaby was surprised that he would still be mentioning her achievements.

“Not me! … I swear … but he has gone on about some of your races.”

“I’m gonna have to find out ‘ow ‘e does it!”

“Yes, dear…” Maddy smugly replied, amidst the chuckles of her friends.

Meanwhile, the ‘dates’ that were with the other girls were left standing in the hall, wondering what just happened. No one did see Cynthia slink off, but eventually everyone noticed she wasn’t around.

“Better late than never,” Gaby thought as she saw Mr. Woods and Miss Cowlishaw approach.

“Evening, all…” Mr. Woods greeted when they reached the small group of students.

“Evening, Sir … Miss,” The gathered seniors chorused.

A short time later, when Mr. Woods, Miss Cowlishaw and the two girls were about to enter the disco and join the rest of the students, Fran abruptly stopped and reached for the girl’s hands.

“What’re these?” Fran happily asked.

“They weren’t there at final dismissal,” Mr. Woods voiced.

“Gabs proposed before we came to the school,” Maddy proudly beamed as they both surrendered their left hands for inspection.

“I wanted her to have her diamond before she went off to UMIST,” Gaby put in.

“I always felt that despite everything, you two would end up together!” Mr. Woods enthused.

“So did I,” Fran whispered as she hugged both girls.

“Well, ladies … on that note … shall we?” Mr Woods offered as he gave a sweeping motion with his arm, towards the main entrance to the disco.

“What are you two doing here?” Maddy asked when they found both Em and Ally standing inside the doors.

“We heard that you two were going to be here so we thought we’d come and say ‘Hi!”, Ally admitted.

“Em thought we’d be run out when Mr. Woods caught us since we’re ‘former students’, but both he and Miss C were kewel with us being around once we explained we were hoping to see you two,” Ally further explained.

Maddy, noting Em’s subdued demeanour, gently nudged Gaby. Taking the hint, she approached the girl and gently took hold of her hands.

“Em? Remember you once said to me we’ve been friends too long and I told you I might forgive you sometime, but not then? Well … you were right. We were mates for a long time … and now it’s well past time I that I did forgive you.” She then drew her into a hug.

After the two parted, Em could only smile as she nodded her head and quickly grabbed a tissue from her bag.

“OhmyGod!” Ally squealed. She held Maddy’s left wrist and as she made a grab for Gaby’s wrist, Ally frantically addressed her bewildered friend, “Em! … Are you blind?”

“For real?” a shocked Em managed to squeak after staring at their rings.

“Uh huh!” Maddy gushed.

While Em was hugging Gaby and looking at her ring, Ally had Maddy in an emotional hug.

“Didn’t I tell you she still loved you? I’m so happy for you Mad.”

“You knew?”

“Not this!” Ally shot back, as she playfully held her hands up in mock surrender.

“You guys set a date?” Em wondered.

“Give it up Em … they just got engaged!” Ally remarked. “You did just get engaged … didn’t you?”

“To answer your questions … I only asked her before we came to the school … and no … no date … both of us still have uni,” Gaby revealed.

“Did she go down on one knee?” Ally jokingly asked Maddy.

“Are you kidding? In this frock an’ these heels?” Gaby replied with mock annoyance.

“I’ll have you know … I thought she was very romantic,” Maddy softly offered as she cuddled up to Gaby.

The four friends went inside the disco and spent some more time together catching up on things and mingling with Maddy’s schoolmates. Occasionally they talked with either Miss Cowlishaw or Mr. Woods and even had a few dances. Unfortunately, Bernie had left for Scotland with her parents earlier that evening, or it might’ve been a ‘gang’ reunion of sorts.

Other than a ‘curious look’ from a few of those in attendance during the first couple of slow dances and when they snuck the odd kiss, the disco was very enjoyable for the two girls.

All too quickly, the time came when Maddy thought she should phone for a ride and plans were made quickly with Em and Ally to meet the following day and go into town. It was to be Maddy’s last full day in Warsop, for a few weeks.

Next morning, Carol poked her head in the room, “Breakfast in ten!”

Gaby immediately thought she sounded too cheerful for this time of day — like her mum! She smiled to herself as she started to wonder if it’s some sort of genetic condition.

After getting out of bed and taking care of business, she decided to awaken her ‘sleeping beauty’ like in the fairy tales. Tiptoeing into Maddy’s room, she bent over her princess and planted a kiss on her lips.

“Mmmmm … I could get used to this…” Maddy cooed with her arms wrapped around her fiancée’s neck.

“Your mum said ‘brekkies’ in ten, an’ that was five minutes ago! Guess ya gotta get up,” Gaby sweetly replied.

“Oh, pooh!” Maddy exclaimed with a pout, as she tried to playfully pull Gaby into bed.

“Girls!” Carol called up stairs.

Heeding the voice from downstairs, both girls reluctantly hauled themselves out of Maddy’s room and joined her parents for breakfast.

“Gabs, one thing I meant to ask when I was at your place last weekend. I noticed that your Apollinaris skins have small German flags on your collar, but when we were at the team meeting, no one else … juniors or pros, had them on their skins. How come?”

“When you see the national flag on the collar of anyone’s skins, that means they’re a national champion,” explained Gaby.

“So … you’re now the German National Champion, then?” Maddy’s interest was obviously peaked.

“The 2008 German Junior Women’s National Champion for ‘under 19’ … yeah,” Gaby replied as if it was no big deal. She explained that she won the title back in the first weekend of June, in Lahr, but since no one asked her about it, she didn’t mention it!

“That’s one Mr. Woods never mentioned!” Maddy enthused.

“That’s what I forgot last night!”

“What?” Carol wondered.

“I was going to ask Mr. Woods how he always seemed to know all about my races…”

“He kept mentioning Gaby’s races at our assemblies,” Maddy added for her mother’s benefit. “Oh, well … that’s another of life’s mysteries I guess.”

“What’s on your agenda’s today?” John asked no one in particular.

“I still have to pack, but Gabs and I’ve agreed to go into town with Em and Ally for awhile,” replied Maddy.

“I’ve got to get a few groceries or we won’t be eating tonight,” Carol added.

Having officially heard that he’d be left alone, John resigned himself to yard work while the girls were out and Carol volunteered to drive the kids into town, once Em and Ally arrived.

Following breakfast, Maddy went upstairs to get ready, while her mum and Gaby did the washing up. Carol used the time alone to talk to her a bit more. At least by the time she went upstairs, she didn’t have to vie for the ‘facilities’ with Maddy!

The girls filled in the time until Em and Ally got to the house, with Gaby helping Maddy pack for Germany.

“Pack for the summer, luv. Something tells me that we won’t have too much time for shopping. According to the tour schedule Mum told us ... it sounds as if we’ll either be racing or travellin’…”

As Maddy started pulling out various dresses and skirts, Gaby suggested she not get carried away.

“It’s kind of hard to work on bikes in a mini and heels … I think you’ll have more of a need for jeans, trainers and tops.”

“Think you’re right,” Maddy agreed as she began putting some clothes back in her closet.

“Then again…” Gaby thoughtfully uttered as she pondered a few of the sexier outfits that Maddy was putting back. “There’ll probably be a few times that we’ll need something dressier … put these back in.”

“As you wish…” Maddy softly replied and then gave Gaby a gentle kiss as she took the clothes from her.

“Girls! Em and Ally are here … and I’m about ready to go … you two finished packing?” Carol called up from the bottom of the stairs.

“Be right down, Mum!” Maddy called back. “Let’s go.”

Both girls came bounding down the stairs where they greeted their guests with hugs. When everyone was ready, Carol ushered the four girls out to the car.

“Okay … I have to grab some groceries … if you girls want a lift back, meet me here in about two hours.”

“We’ll probably be longer than that … Gabs and I have to pick up some stuff to take with us. We’ll grab the bus back, later.”

“See you back at the house for tea, then … have fun, girls!”

Maddy took the opportunity to get herself some new trainers and jeans. Old habits die hard and Maddy soon had Gaby in a sporting goods store, looking at bathing suits.

“C’mon Gabs … there’s bound to be a pool at these hotels, isn’t there?” Maddy pleaded. “An’ this will look sooo sexy on you….”

After letting her fiancée go on for a short while, Gaby willingly gave into Maddy’s wishes and got a new two-piece bathing suit or two.

Any Warsop shopping trip was not complete until Gaby had purchased one or two pairs of shoes from her favourite salesperson. In fact, all four girls fell prey to Sarah’s ‘salesmanship’!

After a couple of hours wandering the stores, they found a quiet café where they could sit and relax. It wasn’t until late afternoon that they collectively decided to get the bus and head to their respective homes. The lovebirds had a six-thirty flight to catch the next morning and it was going to be an early night for both of them!

Gaby admitted to herself, she enjoyed the shopping as much as Maddy did and yet it felt strange. As she thought about it, she wondered if it was because when she used to shop in those very stores, Drew was always mistaken for a girl by various sales staff and Maddy had played along, at Drew’s expense.

But that was a distant memory. Now she had her future and Maddy to think about.

(Bzzzzzzttt)

Gaby threw her arm in the direction of her nightstand and eventually managed to turn off the radio alarm. As she entered the land of the living, she became aware of an arm across her chest and turning her head, saw Maddy staring at her with an evil grin on her face.

“Shhhh … I couldn’t resist … but I should get back before Mum comes and tries to wake me up,” Maddy whispered as she leaned in to give Gaby a morning kiss.

(CLICK!) “Shit!”

Maddy quickly threw the covers over her head as overhead light was turned on. Carol stood in the doorway and knowingly scanned the room, her gaze finally resting on the strange ‘lump’ in Gaby’s bed.

Gaby propped herself up, leaned over and lifted the covers.

“Busted!” she softly remarked as she looked at Maddy.

“Mum! … I…”

“Shhhh … it’s okay” Carol quietly told her daughter as she stood beside the bed looking at the girls.

“She spend the whole night, Gaby?”

“Not that I know of.”

“I’m surprised!” Carol had a grin on her face that told the girls she didn’t quite believe them as she left the room.

“John’s still sleeping … so keep it down. Better start to get ready.”

“Don’t think she believed you, sweetheart...” Maddy whispered. She then got out of bed and headed for her own room, leaving Gaby with a peck on the cheek.

“Hey!” Gaby shouted in a loud whisper.

“That’ll have to hold you until breakfast … see you downstairs,” Maddy playfully quipped as she exited the ‘guest’ room.

Later, after telling John she was heading out to the airport, Carol led the girls out into the breaking dawn and to the car. Traffic was light at that hour, even for a Sunday and they got to the airport in good time. Carol bade them good-bye and headed back to a warm bed, leaving the girls to make their own way to the boarding gate.

The flight itself was boring, but once back in Bonn, Dave was waiting to pick them up.

“Good flight?” Dave inquired, talking to no one in particular.

“Dunno … we slept for most of it … I think. We were up pretty early,” Maddy replied for the two of them.

“Well … relax for the day … ‘cause you two and Jenny will be up even earlier tomorrow. Everyone’s to meet at the facility by four AM. Apollinaris has given you guys one of their corporate jets for the ‘tour’.”

“I understand they’ve even re-configured the interior to accommodate your bikes and any equipment that can’t fit in the cargo hold. Since there will be only seven of you … you’ll all be pampered … executive style,” Dave revealed.

Dave and the girls eventually made their way to the car. Once on the Autobahn, he had a pretty quiet drive home with the two girls in back trying hard not to doze off.

At the house, Maddy was once again put in with Gaby. After she got settled and both girls rejoined the family downstairs, everyone wanted to know everything about the girl’s weekend.

Both Jenny and Dave had lumps in their throats when they actually saw the girls wearing their diamonds and cuddled up to each other on the couch. Following supper, Jenny and the girls decided on an early evening.

“Everybody up!” Jenny quietly barked as she both tried to hide a yawn and wake the girls up at the same time. Maddy rolled over and looked at Gaby’s clock radio.

“Two AM? Why’d we even go to sleep?” Maddy propped herself up on one elbow and stared at her still sleeping fiancée.

(Yaaaaawwwwn) "C’mon, sweetheart … I think your mum wants us up,” Maddy softly said, as she tried to shake Gaby into something resembling a living being.

With all three women exhibiting reluctance to become mobile, they eventually got showered and dressed, arranged all bags by the door and even managed a bit of breakfast. At three-thirty, Mike appeared at the door, the team van pulled into the drive.

“Don’t you dare say it! It’s way too early to even think about being awake,” Jenny warned, shaking her finger at Mike, eyes half closed and a smile on her face.

Once Mike loaded the girls into the van and collected Kristen, he then drove them to the team facility to join Hans and the other two girls. After repacking the van and getting everyone situated, they headed to the airport and the Apollinaris corporate hanger.

As they walked into the corporate hanger, the ladies saw all five of the Apollinaris Canadair Challenger 604 ‘biz’ jets were done up in the same colours as their team skins, but one aircraft had something extra to the standard paint job.

Beside the door, it had the legend ‘2008 Women’s Junior World Cup Tour’. Immediately below that, the races were listed and below that, the names of all the individuals who were on the ‘Tour’. The words ‘Team Apollinaris’, ‘written’ in fancy script, appeared in four inch gold letters on the side of the fuselage below the cockpit windows. For the girls, it was like a dream come true.

Once everything was loaded and everyone was allowed to board they all wondered if they could ever be satisfied flying on a normal airliner again. They unanimously agreed that they were about to be spoiled!

“Next stop, Charleston, West Virginia! Get comfortable … we do have a microwave and a small kitchenette at our disposal, as well as an entertainment centre stocked with CD’s and DVD’s … washroom is back there,” Jenny announced as they settled in, while pointing to the rear of the cabin.

She explained that they had to fly into Charleston and then by car, take the Interstate into Beckley. It was something like a forty-minute drive.

One of the pilots assigned to the aircraft came back and briefed everyone on emergency procedures and where everything was. All that remained was to get airborne. By now, everyone was extremely excited to actually be on the way!

In due time, the excitement levels diminished and everyone settled into the normal ‘routine’ of a transatlantic flight, after they got used to the idea of crossing the Atlantic ocean in a ‘small’ aircraft.

After several hours in the air, one of the pilots came back and announced they were coming into Charleston.

~~~~

* ‘Red Devils’ is the club nickname for the ‘Manchester United’ football club.
 
 
Comments are Greatly Appreciated!

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To Be Continued...
 

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Viewing Note: This story should be viewed with the Edwardian Script ITC font installed on your Windows platform in the c:/Windows/Fonts directory. Microsoft Word installs this font automatically.

Photo Credit: Licensed royalty free. Provided by PD Photo.org .

 

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Chapter 3
 
“Something wrong, sweetheart?” Maddy asked as they were exiting the plane after landing at their destination. She sensed something was not quite right, but couldn’t put her finger on it.

“Why?” Gaby replied. The voice Maddy heard was quiet and weak, not the strong happy voice she heard only hours ago.

As the others followed Jenny and stood around the plane’s wingtip awaiting their ride and a customs official, Maddy wrapped her arms around Gaby’s shoulders and held back her fiancée.

“Talk to me, Gabs…” Maddy softly pleaded. “You were getting more uptight the closer we got to landing! Now talk to me … please?”

“Sorry … I didn’t think it showed,” Gaby quietly replied.

“We’re here now and if something is bothering you … talk to me or if not me … your mum … but get it off your chest. You’ve got a race to think about!” Maddy forcefully whispered.

“You know me … get me on two wheels...”

“Yeah … but it’s the rest of the time that bugs me. C’mon … we’re going to be married an’ if you can’t talk to me now…”

“You’re right, darling … sorry,” Gaby whispered.

“I wuz just thinking of Grottoes … an’ how they treated me ‘cuz of who I loved. When we moved to Germany … I decided I wasn’t going to hide what I am an’ people still accepted me for me. While this may not be Germany … I’m not hiding again ... but…”

“But what? Who cares? You don’t have to hide … just be yourself! It’s their problem if they feel like that! Sod ‘em!”

“But … now I have you to think about.” Maddy didn’t miss the concern in Gaby’s voice.

“As your future wife, do I have a say in this?” she softly asked as she gently laid her head on Gaby’s shoulder.

“Always.”

“Then, I’m not hiding either! This isn’t Grottoes and I’m wearing your ring ‘cuz I love you ... an’ we’re gonna be married! We’ll face whatever is thrown our way ... together ... whether they like it or not ... end of discussion!” Maddy gently lifted Gaby’s chin and stared lovingly into her eyes.

“Thank you,” Gaby whispered as she held Maddy in a tight embrace.

As they heard Jenny’s approaching footsteps on the tarmac, they reluctantly released each other.

“Anything wrong, girls?” Jenny was sounding quite concerned, having observed their discussion from a distance.

“It’s okay now, Mum. Mad helped me through it,” Gaby quietly replied.

“I was getting a bit concerned. You looked upset. You sure you’re okay?”

“Yeah … (sigh) I was just remembering how it was in Grottoes …”

“I told her … sod ‘em! We love each other … an’ we’re not going to pretend otherwise!”

“Good for you! Good for both of you!”

Jenny finally understood the true extent that her daughter’s previous US experience had scarred her and she could only now imagine the apprehension and uncertainty that was going through her child’s mind.

“I’ll really be okay Mum … just get me on a bike,” Gaby softly told her mother.

Turning to look at Maddy, she gently took hold of her hand and the three ladies joined the others still gathered over by the plane’s wing tip.

A Chevy Tahoe and trailer soon pulled up and a lone occupant emerged.

“Jenny Bond? Hi … I’m Brian Schaum. I’ve been assigned to be your driver while you and your team are here.”

Jenny quickly introduced the team members.

“Pleased to meet y’all … once someone from customs gets here, we can start with the unloading of your equipment,” Brian declared.

By the time they reached Beckley and their hotel, the summer sun was already starting to set. Maddy and Hans quickly made sure everything was locked down before checking in. That evening was set-aside for everyone to relax from the trip.

After Jenny checked in for the team, she passed out the plastic ‘punch cards’ that served as the room keys for their reserved rooms.

“Okay. We have four rooms … so everyone’s got a roommate. Hans … you and Brian are in 112 ... here! Gaby and Kristen … you have 115 ... wait ... your key cards. Nina and Judith … you got 116. Your cards … and you’re with me, Maddy. Oddly enough, we got 117.”

As the shuffling settled, Jenny continued. “As it’s late already, I would suggest everyone just put their luggage in their rooms. I’m told the restaurant across the road is pretty good ... so once everyone’s back here ... we can go.”

Following dinner, Jenny started to organize things for the next day with Hans while the girls drifted to Judith’s room, just to unwind.

Even though the others had seen both girls holding hands or even sharing the odd kiss, it was the first real opportunity for the team to talk amongst themselves since Maddy joined the ‘tour’ and Gaby’s teammates were anxious to hear exactly what’s going on with those two.

As soon as both girls wandered into the room and joined the others, Gaby had a good idea that she and Maddy would be a topic for discussion.

“Judith knows from school … so she’s okay with me. Kris knew about Drew, Gaby an’ Maddy … an’ she knows about the real Gaby … so ... how does she feel about two lesbians? Guess we’ll soon find out … then there’s Nina. We haven’t known each other that long … so I’ve no bloody idea how she’s gonna react … on the up side … they’ve all seen Maddy an’ me together … an’ it’s not like we’ve tried to hide our rings either…”

“Okay, kids ... sitzen Sie. The time has come to tell us of many things ... like ... exactly what ist going on between you two!” Judith playfully ordered while staring at their diamonds.

“No mystery. You’ve all seen Mad an’ I together.”

“Is that why you ran out on us last Thursday?” Kristen asked while pointing to Maddy’s ring.

“Uh huh. I had to get to town an’ pick them up before the jewellers closed.”

“What about Friday? You weren’t around,” Nina wondered.

“Back in Warsop ... proposing to Maddy.”

“You’re engaged?...” Judith asked in disbelief.

“...To each other?” Kristen quickly finished the question.

“We’re both wearing diamonds, Kris...” Gaby dryly pointed out.

Although the girls expected some kind of a reaction, they didn’t expect the stunned silence that descended onto the room. After several minutes with no one saying anything, they rose without uttering a sound and unexpectantly walked out, leaving the others back in the room.

While slowly walking down the hall towards the lobby, Gaby came across a side exit. Peering through the door’s window, they saw it opened onto the side parking lot with a manicured treed grass area beyond that.

“Come with me...” Maddy whispered as she took Gaby’s hand and opened the door.

“Where we going?”

“Those trees … it’s a nice night.”

The two crossed the parking lot and stopped under a clump of trees, holding each other and listening to the night sounds.

“It’s happening all over … innit Mad?” Gaby tearfully whispered. “I thought…”

“No ... it’s not! It’s nothing like before. Kris and Judith already knew about us. They just need a bit of time to get over the engagement thing, sweetheart ... you’ll see … it’ll be alright. Even if they have a problem with it … your mum’s not going to let their ‘problem’ ruin this tour!” Maddy softly reasoned.

Both girls continued to silently embrace each other and only released their hold later when they heard a door close and nearby voices.

“I think that ist them over there … by those trees!” Maddy thought it sounded like Judith, but they both remained silent.

“Hey … you two! We haff been looking for you,” Judith called out as she and the others approached.

“When ve told Jenny what happened und you weren’t in your room…” Nina added.

“I’m sorry Gabi. I should have expected this. For as long as I haff known you, you haff always talked about ‘your’ Maddy,” Judith quietly apologized as she hugged both girls.

“Mein Gott, girl! We don’t even haff steady boyfriends yet ... und you tell us that you’re ready to get married! You two set a date yet?”

“Nein…” Gaby started to quietly reply until Kristen approached them.

“I’m sorry guys! Crikey, Gabs ... talk about being gobsmacked! You don’t do anything in half measures ... do you, girl? You’d think that for as long as I’ve known you two, I would’ve expected you’d to go off and pull something like this ... and then when you do...”

“Still, you gotta admit … a bit of a shocker, innit? It’s not every day a girl friend tells me she’s getting married to another girl. Anyway … I’m so happy for both of you!” Kris quietly squealed as she gave a hug and a kiss on the cheek, to both Maddy and Gaby.

“I never knew you liked girls, Gabi. I admit it did throw me to see you guys together und I didn’t really notice your rings until we were talking in the room. At first … I was … how you say … repulsed … then I realised that you’re still the same person I’ve always known und you’re still meine Freundin,” Nina sheepishly admitted as she hugged the two girls. “Congratulations!”

“C’mon! We gotta get you back to your mum so she knows you’re safe!” Kristen advised.

As the four girls entered the main lobby of the hotel, Jenny hurried to embrace both of her girls.

“The others told me what happened. When we tried your room and you weren’t there … I started to get worried. Where were you two?” Jenny anxiously inquired.

“Outside … lookin’ at the stars. I had to go somewhere to think an’ Mad came with me,” Gaby softly explained to her mother. “When the others didn’t say anything ... all I could think about was Grottoes.”

Jenny was aware of her eyes misting over as she hugged her daughter and whispered, “It’s not going to happen, darling…”

“Will you be okay or would you like me to swap Maddy and Kristen? Maddy might be able to help you if...”

“Tempting ... but I’m fine, Mum ... really,” Gaby joked as she and Maddy clung to each other.

“Okay ... but if things get too much, you let Maddy know and I’ll try to give you two some quiet time together. I’m not Jules...” The veiled significance of Jenny’s closing comment didn’t escape Gaby.

“Don’t worry, Mum ... not gonna happen ... I promise,” Gaby whispered as she quickly hugged her mother.

The next morning at seven sharp, she called each room, with a personalized wake-up call. The girls were told to dress casually for breakfast and meet in the lobby in an hour. Gaby claimed the shower first and promised Kristen that she could have it first the following day.

Once Gaby relinquished the shower, Kristen got up off the bed and gave her ‘roomie’ a big hug before heading off for her own shower.

“You will send me an invite to your wedding … right?”

“Of course…” Gaby replied, somewhat caught off guard by her teammate’s playful demand.

“Good! Now that we got that settled…”

Following a peck on the cheek, Kristen walked into the bathroom.

“This looks like the right room … an’ she looks like Kris. A clone, maybe? Naw!”

Once everyone was gathered in the lobby, Jenny explained that although the race wasn’t for another day, there was still a lot to do.

The day’s planned workload was light to give the girls a chance to get over any jet lag, but still included a drive over the race circuit and a follow-up team meeting. When Jenny mentioned that all of West Virginia lay within the Appalachian Mountains, the rest of the team instinctively turned to look at Gaby. They had a feeling that any tactics they thought up, would likely build upon her hill climbing talents.

A short time later the girls donned their team jackets and walked across the road from the hotel to the restaurant. While they were waiting to be seated, they caught the eyes of many of the customers who were already eating. Several of the cyclists among them openly focused their gazes upon Gaby and her flag festooned collar.

“Apollinaris! Guten Morgen!”

As Gaby and the others scanned the room, they noticed a couple of the girls from Team High Road beckoning them over to two empty tables beside them.

“Can we be seated with them?” Gaby asked the hostess while pointing to the source of the greeting.

“Sho’ can!”

As they followed the hostess to their tables, the other cyclists present in the room silently watched the scene unfold. They knew the reputation of both teams and what kind of competition they now faced.

“Can we make room for three others?” Gaby asked as she saw Diane Biggs walk in, followed by Erin and Jessica.

“No problem … but keep your mum’s seat open, Gabs...” Kristen replied while the others shifted over.

Gaby immediately waved to get their attention and the three women soon found themselves seated amongst two of the powerhouses in women’s junior cycling. After they got settled, she began the lengthy round of introductions amongst those seated at the three tables.

“Erin and I read in the Comics you guys were coming to this race, so the three of us thought we’d come see how you were doing,” Diane mentioned, while pointing to Erin and Jessica.

“Diane’s not riding this time. She was curious to see how it’s done in the big leagues,” Erin grinned as Diane playfully slapped her in the arm.

Once Jenny finished with her call to Dave, she walked up to the hostess’ table and asked where the rest of the team were seated. As she was being shown to their table, a wave of respectful silence descended amongst the cyclist’s in the room.

Although accustomed to some attention, Jenny was caught off balance by this and momentarily froze, causing the restaurant’s hostess to also stop and scan the surreal scene. It had been awhile since she had encountered a reception like that and it made her feel warm inside. Jenny eventually nodded her head and smiled in thanks, before continuing to the table and her ’reserved’ seat beside Gaby.

Shortly after Jenny was seated and their food orders taken, Jessica noticed Gaby’s ring.

“What’s this?”

“Things worked out,” Gaby quietly offered while directing Jessica’s gaze to Maddy’s hand. Still feeling a bit uncomfortable with her surroundings, she wisely kept her voice low.

“You’re not going to keep me away, you know. I’ll expect an invitation...” Jessica quietly, but cheerfully hinted.

“That’s two! Guess we better start a list, Mad…” Gaby whispered.

By this time, both Erin and Diane had picked up some of the hushed conversation and noticed the diamond rings on both girls.

“Let’s...” Diane excitedly began.

“Shhhh ... later,” Jessica silently mouthed while looking directly at her two fellow Virginians.

Following breakfast, Brian brought the van around and the team climbed in for their planned tour of the race venue.

“Before we leave to tour the circuit … all I want to say is that this area is quite rugged, as you’ll see. It’s only a single lap … starting and ending in Beckley. However, don’t let that fool you. It’s a very technical thirty-six miles … thanks to the rugged terrain in these parts. Okay … everyone set? Let’s go.”

Three hours later, they arrived back at the hotel and went into their ‘huddle’ to discuss the course, in detail, as well as what everyone can expect during the race. After the informal meeting, Hans and Maddy made sure everything was in order with the team’s Tahoe and the bikes, in preparation for race day.

Later at dinner, Erin and Diane happened to meet the two girls outside the restaurant.

“Jess told us! I guess congratulations are in order ... both of you!” Erin quietly enthused as she and Diane hugged the two girls. “Damn … you two sho’ make a purdy couple!”

“It doesn’t bother you?” Gaby asked.

“Hell, no! We’re not all like that … but after listening to Jess. We understand why you kept your voices down.”

“Better add two more names to that list, sweetheart…”

“Listen to her Gabs,” Diane mischievously put in before the four of them entered the restaurant to join the others.

During the meal, conversation naturally drifted to the upcoming race. Erin and Diane quickly volunteered to help out the team at the feed. Rather than rely only on the race organizers, Jenny was grateful for the offer and in return invited Jessica to ride along in the van with her and Maddy.

Race day and preparations were finalized for the ten AM start. Erin and Diane had already positioned themselves at the ‘feed’, which was located near Harper, just over seventeen miles into the race.

As the start time drew closer, Jenny took her place behind the wheel of the SUV, while Hans sat in the front passenger seat ready to spring into action should his mechanical talents be required.

Maddy sat behind Jenny with the water and some other supplies beside her.

“Jen ... what can I do besides take up room?” Jessica asked once she sat down on the bench seat, opposite Maddy.

“Maddy?” Jenny put Jessica’s question directly into her lap.

“There’s not much to do ... but I guess you can keep these two cases of water between us and hand me some bottles or some of those energy snacks when I ask for ‘em.”

“That all?”

“It makes my job of passing ‘em out a little easier,” Maddy joked.

“Will those four go through all of this?” Jessica seriously asked.

“Considering the nature of this course ... it’s quite possible,” Jenny answered as she quickly glanced over her shoulder, into the back seat.

Team Apolllinaris took their positions, ready for the mass start. Jenny positioned their SUV amongst all the other support vehicles, behind the cyclists. Besides the individual riders and the two European teams, there were a number of American-based club teams as well as Giant Canada/Team Whistler from Canada. The race was only two years old, but the field for the 2008 edition consisted of some seventy-five individual cyclists from three countries.

Exactly at ten AM, the peloton moved off. For the first eleven miles or so, it remained rather static, with everyone more or less out for a relaxing ride, checking out the course.

Like in Atlanta, Gaby chose to position her team near the front in the early stages, content to let Team Giant and Team High Road do the initial work with setting the pace.

As the field approached Surveyor, there was plenty of movement with many of the rider’s jockeying for positions within the peloton. It appeared that her strategy paid off once again as the activity level in the field, increased.

Once past Surveyor, the first serious break came when two of the Canadian riders took off, with one of High Road's girls close behind. They were quickly brought back in, but in the process when all attention was focused elsewhere, Gaby and Kristen blew by the leaders and opened a lead between them and the rest of the peloton. Uta and Sabine, from Team High Road, eventually crossed the gap and joined up with them.

Shortly after the successful break, a girl from the Canadian squad tried her luck and crossed the gap, unchallenged by the other riders. In time, with help from the local terrain, the gap between them and the main peloton was extended to almost three minutes!

A short time later, eleven others that included the rest of Team High Road and Team Apollinaris broke from the main peloton while ascending a fairly long grade.

Upon reaching the feed at Harper, Gaby remembered Atlanta, years ago and the way she felt after crossing the finishing line. This time she wisely decided to take Erin’s offering of a mussette. Besides, Lance wasn’t around!

By slowing down the pace for the feed, it gave the girls of the chase group the opportunity to join the five leaders resulting in a tidy little group of sixteen, leading the way.

Between Harper and Maple Fork, the main peloton closed the gap to the point where the leaders could see the breakaway group. It looked as if they would eventually absorb the leaders, but sheer determination on the part of the lead group eventually saw the gap again grow, this time to almost seven minutes by the time they passed by Bradley.

A fourteen-mile run to Beckley now lay before them and with the number of strong riders amongst the leaders, it appeared to Gaby that if it came down to a mass sprint, that the team’s role would be to position Kristen in the pack so that they would be able to take full advantage of her sprinting ability.

With all of Team Apollinaris together once again, it meant Jenny’s job was easier in that she didn’t have to run between the main peloton and the leaders to keep her girl’s supplied with water, energy snacks and advice. It seemed about the only one that got off lightly, was Hans. Thankfully, except for a quick on-the-fly adjustment to Judith’s gears, there was little demand for his talents.

At the one-mile marker, there was a lot of activity within the lead group. At the half-mile marker, Sabine from Team High Road and Jenelle, from Team Giant, broke from the group of sixteen. Several of the other girls quickly responded but they didn’t catch them until the last hundred or so yards! Jenelle kept her momentum going and threatened to trigger an all-out sprint!

Gaby and Kristen emerged from a small group within this new breakaway and chased down the two girls. At about fifty yards, Sabine couldn’t keep the pace and dropped back, but in so doing, caused Kristen to ease up a fraction to avoid a collision.

Sensing that her teammate wasn’t with her any longer, Gaby seized the initiative and called upon all her reserves to overtake Jenelle in the last few yards. Uta sprinted up to the leaders but she faded with only yards to go. In the end it was Gaby, by less than a bike length — followed by Jenelle and Kristen.

The official times put only fractions of a second between the top three! Uta crossed the line a full half second after Kristen. In terms of team efforts, it was the three non-American teams that took the top four positions, with Team Apollinaris capturing first and third, Team Giant grabbing second place and Team High Road coming in a respectable fourth.

The race organizers had booked one of the hotel’s conference rooms for a small reception that evening, for all to relax. The following day was deemed a ‘travel day’ for everyone.

Next morning Gaby was already dressed and just closing her luggage, when her mum came around and knocked on the door with her seven AM wake-up. When she entered the room, Jenny noticed that it was all cleaned up, bags packed and Kristen was seated on one of the room’s chairs.

“Up early … were we?” Jenny asked with a smile.

“Ummmm … five-forty-five sound about right, Kris?” Gaby asked as she walked past her mum.

“Give or take…”

“Okay … breakfast at eight. Meet in the lobby.”

As Jenny left to awaken the rest, Maddy walked into the room, past Kristen and straight to Gaby with a ‘good morning’ kiss.

“I could easily get used to this,” Gaby dreamily commented as she held Maddy in her arms.

“Ready for your last brekkie in Beckley?”

“Just need our jackets,” Kristen replied.

Both girls grabbed their team jackets and Kristen made sure she had the room pass before the three girls walked out the door, letting it lock behind them.

Once the team assembled, they walked over to the restaurant only to discover that it was very busy with the other bike teams having the same idea. The team was spared the long waiting time when one of the girls from T-Mobile approached the hostess desk after spotting their team jackets.

After the previous morning, this time when T-Mobile was originally seated, they informed the hostess that Team Apollinaris and their friends were to join them. Erin, Diane and Jessica were already seated when Jenny and the team arrived.

Following breakfast and a few tearful farewells between the two girls and their three American friends, everyone adjourned back to the hotel. A short time later, the team was on the road back to Charleston.

As he closed the plane’s cabin door, the co-pilot turned to his passengers.

“Guten Morgen, meine Damen … Hans … Sicherheitsgurte, bitte?”

After bidding them a good morning and asking them to fasten their seat belts, he proceeded to remind them of the emergency procedures as pilot began to taxi the aircraft.

A short time after he returned to the cockpit, they were airborne and heading to Toronto, the first of two Canadian stops on the ‘tour’.
Since the flight was going to be a couple of hours, Jenny took the opportunity to let everyone know that this race will be quite different from Beckley.

“This will likely turn out to be a sprinter’s race … so your focus will be to get Kris through this. It’s to be run on a pistol-shaped paved racecourse. In fact an F1car race was run on the same track last week. This means you can expect a mainly flat course with wide paved surfaces, some sweeping curves, a couple of very sharp curves and fast long straight sections ... in other words … a fast track.”

“The bulk of the course sits on their permanent exposition grounds, but it also uses a long straight section of a city street. The road race will be seven laps for a total of 70 kilometre.”

Following a brief pause, she continued her talk.

“Okay … just like Beckley. Today is set aside to get registered and settled in … then tomorrow, we do it!”

Almost as an after thought, Jenny added, “We’ll be at the ‘Westin Harbour Castle’ hotel. Any complaints with the room assignments you had in Beckley?”

As soon as she asked the question, Jenny threw a subtle glance towards Gaby and Maddy.

“Good! We’ll keep them for the rest of the tour. Well ... that’s it for me … any questions … comments … no? Then relax for the rest of the flight.”

Approximately two hours later, Eric returned to the cabin to ensure all his passengers were prepared for landing at Toronto’s Pearson International. Since they approached Toronto from the west, but had to land from an eastern approach, the team’s aircraft assumed its spot in a large flight pattern that circled a large portion of the city. This gave the girls a good chance to see Toronto from the air.

Finally they were on the ground and taxiing over to the north side of the airport to the ‘Field Aviation’ facilities, where they where met by two customs officials and another van, trailer and driver, supplied by the race organizer’s.

The driver introduced himself as Ron and following introductions of the team members, he helped Maddy and Hans unload the plane. Once everything was secured in the van and trailer and they were cleared by customs, they started their 25 kilometre trip to the hotel.

During the drive to the hotel, he took Lakeshore Blvd to the Canadian National Exhibition grounds and the site of the next day’s bike race. Finding the stretch of pavement that doubles as ‘pit row’ for the annual Molson Indy, Ron quickly found the ‘pit’ allotted to Team Apollinaris.

Maddy and Hans quickly unhooked the trailer and secured it, assured that the race organizer’s also had security for the night. Meanwhile, Jenny and Ron took the opportunity to drive the girls around the planned course and let them study it first hand.

“Not overly technical … is it?” Judith pointed out.

“But it is fast,” Kristen pointed out. “I think I see some potential … don’t you Gabs?”

“Uh huh.”

At the hotel, with the girls already familiar with the room assignments, things went quickly.

“Okay ... that was painless. Any ideas before dinner?” Jenny asked once they were together in the hotel lobby.

“Wouldn’t mind a peak at the CN Tower. You can walk to it from here ... according to that guy over there,” Kristen voiced while pointing towards the reception desk.

“Ja. That ist the tallest free-standing tower in der vorld!” Nina enthused.

“Any objections?” Jenny asked. “Okay. Let’s go.”

Arriving at the base of the tower after a short walk from the hotel, the girls discovered that it’s the world’s tallest free-standing structure at 1815.5 feet. Ever the adventurous one, Kristen led the others into the high-speed elevator for the short trip up 1,122 feet to the outdoor observation deck and its glass floor.

After they took in the indoor observation deck above them, it was time for the team to descend to ground level where they headed to their reservations at one of the local eateries. Following supper, it was back to the hotel and a team strategy meeting.

During the meeting, Gaby and Kristen noted that except for the sharp ninety-degree turns off Princes Blvd. onto Lakeshore Blvd. and again off Lakeshore onto Ontario Drive, the course consisted of wide two and thee-lane roads with for the most part, gentle sweeping curves and long straights.

They also noted the course dramatically narrowed at those two turns, which could cause potential ‘bottlenecks’ for the peloton. However, a few riders in single file could get through at speed and the team could potentially use that to their advantage.

Their training with the pro Team Apollinaris saw the girls regularly hitting 45-50kph, so the idea was to use speeds like that in bursts to wear down the competition. On one hand, the trick was not to use it so much that the team also tired out in the process, but on the other hand, they were confident that their training with the pro team had gone a long way to prepare them for such an effort.

Next morning, a six AM wake-up and breakfast with another ten AM race start. Toronto police had already closed off a portion of Lakeshore Blvd. for the race when the team had arrived at the Exhibition grounds.

Ron pulled into the team’s position on ‘pit row’ before eight-thirty. This gave Hans and Maddy plenty of time to prepare the support van as well as let the team and the bikes go through the registration process.

Jenny called the team together for a last minute talk. When it was time, they assumed their start positions. Maddy remained in the ‘pit’ while Jenny and Hans took the van to its position at the rear of the field in preparation for the mass start.

Once the race started, Gaby again, took her team up to a position near the front, content to allow others to do the work and set the pace. The peloton quickly slowed and bunched up to negotiate the sharp corner leading to the narrow single lane road that allowed access onto the wide straight that was Lakeshore Blvd.

As soon as all the team was on Lakeshore, Gaby used their speed and surprised the competition by leading the three other girls in an early breakaway. Several others, including two from Team High Road also broke out and joined Team Apollinaris, but soon found that in order to keep up, they had to maintain the fast pace that Team Apollinaris had not only set, but were maintaining.

Leading the pack, Kristen next prepared the group for the turn off Lakeshore Blvd., back onto the exhibition grounds via Ontario Drive. They followed her, single file to the right-hand side of the road where they were able to enter the rather sharp turn, taking the corner wide and ending up near the left-hand curb as they exited the turn.

Despite the efforts of this lead group to take the turn at speed, one of High Road's girls failed to negotiate the curve, sliding into the hay bales that lined the sides of the sharper corners, taking down three others, including Nina. Judith, being the fifth cyclist, went into the bales but quickly rejoined the race and chased down her friends.

Jenny was driving the first support vehicle on the scene, followed by the race’s medical team. Fortunately, injuries were minimal — cuts and scrapes. Nina’s front tire was bent from the impact and had to be replaced, but Hans soon had her back in the running.

As a result of the minor pile-up and the sharp turn, the larger numbers of riders in the main peloton slowed right down and were forced to ‘string’ themselves out to make the same turn. Even when the peloton had snaked through the turn, the breakaway group still had a two-and-a-half minute lead.

Entering the wide sweeping turn that would take them off Ontario Drive onto Princes Blvd and the straight run past ‘pit row’, Kristen noted both Judith and Nina had rejoined the rest. Being careful not to use body language that would give her intentions away, she upped the pace, pulling the rest of the team away from the initial breakaway group. Her computer showed that they hit 54kph during that breakaway attempt.

As they raced down the straight past ‘pit row’ they resumed a slower pace to make the sharp right, back onto Lakeshore Blvd. The four girls intentionally let the peloton close the gap while on the straight, giving themselves a bit of a rest and knowing the main field would have to slow for the sharp turn, while they would be able to take the turn at a fair speed. Back again on the Lakeshore, Gaby and the others resumed the fast pace.

Throughout the race, they continually varied their pace and took advantage of the track’s layout to slowly wear down the opposition while increasing the gap between themselves and the main field as well as fending off at least two attempts to chase them down.

On lap six, Kristen took the turn onto Ontario Drive a bit too wide almost hitting the retaining wall, leaving Gaby to take up the slack. Soon after she rejoined her friends, seven others including Jenelle, Lisa and Heather from Team Giant, managed to catch and this time stay with Team Apollinaris.

Once they reached Princes Blvd on the bell lap, it was clear to all that this would have to end in a sprint, given the talent in the lead group and the nature of the course. Gaby decided to force the issue knowing Kristen was in a good position to go — if they could do something about Jenelle.

Once they hit the straight, Gaby and Judith broke out in a mad dash with a few hundred metres to go. Although Gaby knew she wouldn’t win a sprint at this distance, she hoped two of the Canadian girls would chase after her and Judith. With a wide straight, Lisa fading and Jenelle occupied, Kristen went wide to the right, passing the four girls and catching Jenelle by surprise.

Seeing Kristen go past her, Gaby gave it her all and in the end it was another victory for Team Apollinaris in a clean sweep. Kristen was first by several bike lengths, with Gaby and Judith next to cross the line. Jenelle came across the line in fourth place, less than a wheel length behind Judith.

With the all-out effort in the sprint, Gaby was ‘spent’ when she crossed the finishing line. Unlike Atlanta, she managed to stay on her bike until she approached the team’s trailer on ‘pit row’, where Ron ran out to help her off the bike and guide her to a place she could sit down.

Despite High Road's best finish with Elsa, who crossed in fifteenth position, there was a friendly but competitive three-way rivalry shaping up between Team Apollinaris, Junior Women's Team High Road and Team Giant.

Following the podium ceremonies, the trailer was loaded up and the team went back to the hotel. There, Hans unhooked it, leaving it for the night in a secured compound in the hotel’s parking lot.

That evening at dinner, on the eve of their first scheduled ‘off-day’ of the ‘tour’, Gaby and Maddy approached Jenny.

“Mum?”

“You two want something, don’t you?” Jenny asked with a smile.

“We didn’t say anything,” Gaby innocently replied.

“No … but I know my daughter and that tone of voice ... now, what can your ol’ mum do for you?”

“Tomorrow … do you think we could go to that beach that Jessica mentioned is near here?”

“An’ to that Indian reservation, no doubt … hmmmm? Don’t forget I talked to her, too!”

“… But after what you girls pulled off today … I think we can arrange it … now all we have to do is to find how to get there ... you wouldn’t happen to know the name of this place, so we can ask at the desk?”

“Sandbanks Provincial Park!” Maddy confidently volunteered a bit too quickly for Jenny.

“You’re sure?” Jenny asked while trying to suppress a knowing grin.

“Uh huh…” Gaby confirmed, once again demonstrating her mastery of conversation.

“I don’t suppose you also know how to get there?”

“Not really … but … Jenelle does ….her Gran lives in Picton … so she knows the area really well,” Gaby hastily admitted.

“Jenelle? Picton?” Jenny flatly echoed.

“Jenelle Harrison. She’s with Team Giant,” Maddy offered as Jenny turned to look at her.

“... and Picton?” Jenny pressed for more information.

“It’s a town near the Sandbanks,” Gaby provided.

“An’ this Reservation?”

“That too. Oh! … by the way, Mum? This is Jenelle,” Gaby casually replied while motioning for another girl to come into the room.

“Okay ... you win! Let me talk to Hans and see if he has any plans for tomorrow,” Jenny conceded with a chuckle while she picked up the phone to call his room.

“Okay … that’s settled,” she mentioned when got off the phone.

“Turns out that Ron’s invited Hans to spend the day with him … so that leaves us with the van and me to do the driving. If Jenelle wants to come along and be our guide … she’s more than welcome ... assuming she’s got the day of as well.”

“I do,” Jenelle quickly confirmed.

“Okay, then ... I’ll go find her team manager to get his permission.”

“I guess that means you’re comin’ …right?” Maddy quickly turned to their new friend for her answer. Jenelle enthusiastically nodded her head and then ran off to help Jenny look for her team manager.

After a short hunt, Jenny found Team Giant’s manager and quickly got the necessary approval for Jenelle to accompany the team the following day. After Gaby and Maddy joined their new friend, the three girls took off to round up the others while Jenny found herself in an enjoyable discussion with her counterpart after finding they shared some common ground.

By mid morning the next day, after a bit more than two hours on the road, they were unloading the van at the Provincial Park. Jenny and the girls soon found themselves walking barefoot through the warm sand, following Jenelle to one of the many cabin-like change huts scattered along the length of the beach. Once in their bathing suits, they all gathered on the warm sand, holding their towels and beach bags.

“Now, which way?” Jenny asked. The girls were impressed when they crossed over some low dunes and saw a wide stretch of sandy beach in both directions.

After locating a bit of territory with an empty picnic table and a bit of shade they could claim as their own, the girls became aware they weren’t the only one’s impressed with the scenery!

“Blimey! School’s out...” Kristen quietly enthused as they saw a bunch of athletic college-aged guys looking at them.

“I think I’ve been going to the wrong school…” Judith playfully remarked as she noticed a few of the boys in particular. Moments later, the girls were all laughing and chasing her into the warm waters of Lake Ontario.

Nina voiced her surprise at how far out they could go before they were out over their heads and how sandy the bottom was! All too soon, it was decided it was time to head back to the table and the lunch they picked up at one of the stops along the highway.

When it came time to ‘catch some rays’, nobody skimped on the sunscreen as no one wanted to wear skins with a sunburn. Early in the afternoon, it was collectively decided to get dressed then head for stop number two and some shopping at the “Trading Post” on the Tyendinaga Indian Reserve near Shannonville.

Some time later, after travelling on country roads, they’d left Prince Edward County and were pulling up in front of their destination.

“Doesn’t look like much,” Judith offered.

“Papa would call this a tacky tourist-trap,” Nina quietly mentioned as she looked at the three log-cabin buildings, covered in all sorts of knick-nacks fastened to the outer walls.

“You guys gotta see inside … there’s three floors of stuff … all made here on the Reserve!” Jenelle urged the others to head inside.

“Mein Gott! This ist amazing!” Judith enthused as the girls ventured through the doors of the main building.

The exterior might’ve been not as grandiose as its reputation but after entering, all the girls quickly discovered it was clearly a case of ‘not judging a book by its cover’. As a couple of the staff stood by, Jenelle explained that most of the clothing and jewellery were on the first floor, furniture and art on the second and third floors.

“Okay, girls … away you go! Explore … but … remember we’ve still got a long drive in front of us … and whatever you buy has to go into your luggage!”

Jenny turned the girls loose on all three floors of Mohawk-made merchandise, but in the end packing considerations decided jewellery and clothing were to be the most popular items. However, no one came out of that store, empty-handed.

“Gabs … whaddya think?” After having worn Gaby’s pair, Maddy was eyeing her own pair of moccasin boots.

“Think you’ll have to try them on … somehow I doubt they have a size conversion chart,” Gaby jokingly replied.

“Should get a pair, Kris … they make real comfy slippers on those cold winter nights and they look ‘kewl’ in the summer,” Maddy related as Kris was also examining the moccasins.

Both girls also bought a few pairs of earrings and other jewellery. Gaby bought another ‘Nighthawk feather’ as she thought her other one was starting to look a bit worn, despite Maddy’s assurances to the contrary. She also came away with another fringed rawhide jacket to replace the one she got on her fifteenth birthday.

Just before she walked out, Gaby made sure she picked up a business card and brochure for the store.

Jenny was feeling a bit lighter in the wallet as well, after she also purchased a pair of moccasin boots and jewellery for herself, plus a plain rawhide jacket for Dave and a woman’s beaded rawhide jacket for Jules.

Finally they all climbed back into the van and once again, hit the highway, this time back to Toronto and their last night in the city.

Tomorrow, the ‘tour’ would jet off to the West Coast of Canada and their last Canadian stop — Vancouver.
 
 
Comments are Greatly Appreciated!

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To Be Continued...
 

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Viewing Note: This story should be viewed with the Edwardian Script ITC font installed on your Windows platform in the c:/Windows/Fonts directory. Microsoft Word installs this font automatically.

Photo Credit: Licensed royalty free. Provided by PD Photo.org .

 

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Chapter 4
 
Back at the hotel parking lot, Jenny removed the key from the ignition and the girls started to unload the van.

“It’s now seven. I think we should consider getting some food before long. Anyone else feels the same?” she asked the whole group while she glanced at Jenelle. They all quickly agreed that food was a priority.

“You’re more than welcome to join us, Jenelle.”

“Thank you, Jenny … I’d like that.”

Before they headed to their respective rooms, it was unanimously decided that they’d all meet in the lobby at eight-thirty, but first they all wanted to get the beach out of their swimsuits and towels as well as freshen up.

Some time later Gaby answered a knock at the door to their room. Kristen was drying her hair, so rather than say anything and fight with the sound of the blow drier, Maddy just walked in and flopped down onto one of the two beds. When Gaby walked back into the room and joined her, Maddy noticed how quiet and preoccupied she appeared.

“Penny for your thoughts, sweetheart...” Maddy asked while cuddling up to her favourite girl.

(sigh) "I’ve been thinking … an’ I really think I need to talk this over with both you and Mum.”

“You want me to go and get her … or would you rather wait until later?” Maddy stood up as if to leave.

Holding onto Maddy’s hand, Gaby looked up at her with a blank look and said, “Might as well do it now.”

Jenny was ‘killing time’ as she looked over the individual stats for the tour on her laptop when Maddy came into their room.

“Jenny? Excuse me … are you in the middle of something?”

“No … not really. What’s up?”

“Gabs asked me to get you … she wants to talk to both of us.”

“Sounds serious. Best go see her then, hadn’t we?” After closing down her laptop, both women walked into Gaby’s room where they found Kristen and Gaby sitting on their beds, talking.

“Want me to leave and give you three some privacy?” Kristen asked her teammate as the other two came in the room.

“Might as well stay Kris … you guys will learn about this discussion anyhow,” Gaby softly offered.

The two lovebirds moved over to snuggle on the couch while Kristen remained sitting cross-legged on her bed and Jenny took one of the chairs in the room.

“Okay … what’s on your mind, kiddo?”

“What would happen to my cycling if I took time off to go to university? … How’d you deal with it?”

“If you’re asking me how can you keep up your training and concentrate on your studies … the answer is simple … you can’t.”

Before Gaby could say anything, Jenny added, “Unfortunately … you’ll have to make a decision where your priorities lay.”

“In my case … I chose to continue my studies and was lucky enough to be able to resume cycling once I graduated … but I had to work hard to get back where I was. Fortunately the part-time nature of my teaching position at Warsop College allowed me the time … but that may not be the case when you graduate. It all depends on your boss and the teaching position you end up with.”

“How ‘bout if I turn pro after we get ‘ome … or… do you think it would be better to get my degree and teaching certificate like you did?”

“Well … we both know what George would like … but let’s examine this carefully and in the end you’ll have to make the decision … not me … you!”

Jenny realised she had to try to discuss both sides of the equations fairly and let Gaby know her options — not the easiest thing to do, considering her bias. She sat back in the chair and looked off into space for a moment and then the three of them carefully examined the facts.

First they looked closely at Gaby’s academic choice and possible careers. Jenny acknowledged that she could have both her degree and teaching certificate, possibly even be teaching by the time Maddy graduated. They weighed that against what may well happen if she returned to cycling after a two-year break and had to acknowledge a ‘return’ might never happen, with Jenny using herself as an example.

Then they looked at Gaby’s prospects for turning pro and the earning potential she could realistically bring in, assuming she stayed with her existing sponsorship contracts. Jenny pointed out that if Gaby were to get the Women’s Junior World Champion title that it would increase her net worth when pro teams looked at her.

“I’m not doing this to sway your decision, kiddo … but I’m only telling you this so you have all the facts. According to the current download of UCI stats for the various junior teams … you have a very good shot at getting that title if you keep doing what you’re doing,” Jenny imparted.

“If you feel once you turn pro, that you still want to get your degree or teaching certificate … you can always do that online. It may take longer, but that’s what Tina did.”

After she heard Jenny’s bit of wisdom, Kristen finally spoke up.

“May I say something?”

“Please do,” Jenny replied.

“You’d be crazy if you don’t do it, Gabs. Like your Mum said … you can always work online toward your degree in the ‘off season’ … but at least you’d be earning a good bit of coin for you and the ‘missus’ in the meantime.”

“For me an’ the ‘missus’? Cor! … You do have a way with words … don’tcha?” Gaby playfully remarked.

“Sweetheart … she has a good point. You’d be doing something you love … and getting paid for it, while I’m in school. You do keep saying you want one of us to have a good job before we get married…”

Maddy snuggled in closer. “Besides … I think you’ve already decided … haven’t you?”

“Say I do want to turn pro … what do you think?”

“It’s your life … so it should be your decision,” Maddy quietly replied while tightly holding onto Gaby’s hand.

“It’s our future, Mad … yours and mine … I want to hear what you have to say.” As the words left Gaby’s mouth, Maddy leaned over and tenderly kissed her fiancée’s cheek.

“Turn ‘pro’, sweetheart. Kris is right ... and ... we might not get this chance again.”

“You sure?”

“Very sure. Turn ‘pro’…” Maddy confirmed her answer with a gentle kiss.

“Okay, then … (sigh). Mum can you let George know I’ll sign after we get back?”

Getting up off the couch, Gaby went over to her mother and gave her a hug while whispering, “Thanks, Mum…”

“You’re sure this is what you want. I don’t want you saying we pressured you into making this decision,” Jenny cautioned.

“No, Mum … Mad’s right. I kinda already decided … but I wanted to hear what the two of you had to say.”

“In case you weren’t thinking clearly?” Jenny knowingly wondered.

“Something like that…” Gaby softly admitted. When she wrapped her arms around her mum, Jenny closed her eyes and just held her tight.

She realised that events of a few years ago were now repeating themselves, only now instead of her and Dave, it involved Gaby and Maddy. This time, Gaby was avoiding the mistakes her mother made by actively involving Maddy in the decision making process — something Jenny didn’t do and it almost cost her, her family.

As these memories flew by in her mind, Jenny’s eyes began to tear up as she also thought of her daughter’s future.

“I handled things so badly and almost threw everything I really loved, away. She’s done what I should have. She remembers…”

“Mum always said God works in mysterious ways … maybe my cancer was His way to bring me back to my family …and to see things that really matter. I know it sounds odd … but … Thank You!”

Jenny a felt more tears run down her cheek as she held Gaby tightly in her arms.

(sniff) “Can you forgive me?” Jenny whispered

“Why?”

“I think you know...” Jenny breathed. Her words were almost inaudible even though she said them in Gaby’s ear.

“Mum...” Gaby softly replied as she held back a growing lump in her throat. “...there’s nothing to forgive ... Dad, Jules an’ I ... we all love you...”

The room fell silent for several minutes while mother and daughter continued to hold each other and shed a few tears. After a while, they released each other and Jenny sat back in her chair, dabbing her eyes with a tissue that seemed to materialize from thin air.

“Before I go and call your father … I need to know … again. You’re positive you want to do this…” Jenny affirmed in a very serious, but emotional voice.

“I’m sure,” Gaby confidently replied, then turning to look at Maddy’s smiling face, she corrected herself. “...We’re sure.”
As she started to go back to her room to get her bag, Jenny hugged Maddy and gave her a peck on the cheek. The two exchanged whispered comments, which caused Maddy to shed a tear.

On the way out of the door, she reminded the girls to meet the others in the lobby. They still had to eat!

Back in her room, Jenny placed the call to her husband even though it was very early in the morning back home. Dave pointed out that he’d have to contact the University of Bremen and cancel Gaby’s admission as well as request any paid tuition be refunded so that she’d have it by the time the team returned home.

Meanwhile, back in the girl’s room, the phone was ringing.

“Gabs … it’s George! Here…” Kristen hissed as she handed the phone to Gaby.

“No … he couldn’t … could he?” Gaby whispered as she accepted the receiver.

“The jungle drums are working overtime, tonight...” Kristen quietly mumbled to herself.

“Hallo? … Ja … Danke…” There was silence for a few minutes while the sounds of conversation could be heard through the phone’s handset. “Gute Nacht, George … und Dank wieder.” Gaby slowly returned the receiver back to the phone.

“Well … what did he say?” Maddy impatiently asked.

“He congratulated me an' said he'll have a contract waiting for me when I get back...” Gaby replied. “Crikey! You believe that? I only told Mum a few minutes ago!”

After the three girls touched up their make-up, they grabbed their team jackets and bags. As they got ready to leave, Maddy noticed that Kristen’s mood became somewhat reserved.

“You upset over what we just talked about?” Maddy whispered.

“No way!” Kristen softly responded.

“Then … is it Gaby and I?” Maddy guessed.

“Nothing’s wrong, Mad … nothing to do with you two, anyway...” Kristen talked in hushed tones.

“But … I … umm ... I felt like I was intruding. What happened here was a bit more than just a discussion about Gaby turning ‘pro’ … wasn’t it?”

“Yeah … it kinda turned out that way,” Maddy whispered.

“I hope everything’s okay.”

“I think it finally is,” Maddy quietly allowed.

“See you two kids at the elevator?” Kristen abruptly asked, changing the subject. As she started to go out the door, Gaby started to follow then turned back into the room and pulled Maddy aside.

“What did Mum say to you, Mad?”

“She told me how happy she and your dad are for us ... and … I’m to take good care of ‘her baby’.”

“Is that all?”

“I promised her that I would ... till death do us part...”

They both looked deep into each other’s eyes as she wrapped her arms around Gaby’s neck and gave her fiancée a long, passionate kiss.

“Now that’s a ‘Kodak moment’!”

The girls quickly broke their embrace upon hearing a disembodied voice coming from behind them. When they looked towards the door, they saw Kristen posed in the entrance hall to the room with a big grin on her face.

“Ladies … the elevator?” She asked, standing to one side and motioning the two girls, through.

Gaby gave a quick look through her bag for her room ‘key’ while Maddy went ahead with Kristen. Once she found it, she ran out of the room letting the door lock behind her and quickly joined the other two by the elevators.

(Ding)

“Good timing! Your mum’s already gone down, by the way…” Kristen mentioned as Gaby walked up.

Jenelle stood inside looking back at the three girls as the door opened.

“Speaking of good timing!” Maddy enthused as they entered the elevator.

“Thanks for hangin’ out with us today, Jen … I think we all had fun … I know I did,” Gaby commented as they started to descend to the lobby.

“Thanks Jen,” the other two chorused. A few moments later, the doors opened to the lobby and they joined the rest of the team.

Mindful of the time, Jenny asked the desk clerk to recommend somewhere close-by to eat and after a short walk, the girls found themselves at Gretzky’s Sport’s Bar. Once they ordered their meals, Gaby rapped the top of the table to get everyone’s attention.

Trying to sound serious, she leaned forward on the empty table so that all could hear.

“Guys … I’ve got a bit of an announcement to make.” Gaby paused to ensure she got their undivided attention and was amused when she saw one or two eyebrows shoot up in anticipation.

Looking briefly at Maddy, she continued.

“Ahhh … no … not yet!” A chorus of quiet groans soon emanated from her teammates while Maddy turned a deep red. Gaby took a deep breath and pressed on.

“I’ve thought about this quite a bit … an’ earlier tonight I talked it over with Maddy … and Mum ... an’ I’ve decided that at the completion of the tour … I’m turning ‘pro’ an’ signing with Team Apollinaris.”

Congratulations came from everyone at the table. However, Jenny noticed from their faces that Gaby’s announcement had an unspoken impact on the rest of the team and wondered if they too would have similar thoughts by the time they returned to Germany.

The next morning when the team went for breakfast, they found the hotel restaurant was busy. Despite the horde of departing cyclists, they were packed, checked out and back to the airport, all in good time. Once the plane was loaded, they bid good-bye to Ron and boarded for their flight west to Vancouver.

Their aircraft’s departure from Pearson International required them to head east before turning towards their destination. This afforded them a last look at Toronto in the morning summer sun, as they over flew the city.

When Gaby turned in her seat and peered out the window with Maddy, she had a nagging feeling that this was not the last time the two of them would see the city.

As they reached cruising altitude, Jenny got everyone’s attention.

“We’re going to be in the air for a few hours, so while Judith passes out some drinks from the plane’s kitchenette ... I’ll get the business bit out of the way and then we can all relax.”

Hearing no objections, she began talking about their next challenge.

“The race venue is Vancouver’s Stanley Park. It’s probably the prettiest course you girls will find yourself riding, but keep focused on the job at hand. You can sight-see after the race, okay?”

Looking directly at Gaby, she continued, “A 9 kilometre individual time trial will be run in the morning.” Shifting her gaze back to the entire team Jenny added, “Followed by a 75 kilometre race, in the afternoon.”

She explained the road race would be five laps of 15 kilometres each, on a two-lane road that ran around the circumference of the park. The time trial would be run along the Seawall, a bicycle/foot path that follows the winding shoreline of Stanley Park.

What followed was a full briefing on the courses, the geography of the park and the expected competition for each race. It was pointed out that parts of the road race were winding and that the whole park was heavily forested.

“Use the trees and the winding roads as cover if you’re in a breakaway … a chase group seems to get a second wind if they can see their quarry.”

Jenny also mentioned that once the team was on the ground, they would have the opportunity to tour both courses in the park

“I know you can all do well on this course … but hopefully we’ll have Kris in position if it comes down to a sprint. We all know what you’re capable of Gaby, but if we can get Kris into position, I want you to be her leadoff. Get her within 100 metres then cut her loose ... but you remain in the sprint! It’ll confuse the heck outta them. However, let’s keep our options open and keep them guessing.”

“Now ... we’ll be using the van as the team support vehicle for the race but the path running along the seawall wasn’t designed for full-sized cars. So, for the time trial ... each team will be supplied with two of those elongated ‘electric carts’ you see in airports. Hans will take one and I’ll take Maddy in the other. That way, we can follow two of you on the course simultaneously.

Hans … Maddy? I’ll leave you two to work what we need to carry on the carts for the time trial.”

Before she returned to her seat, Jenny summed up her talk.

“Tonight, before dinner … we’ll get to tour both the park and the Seawall to see what we’re up against. That’ll be follows by the usual get together back at the hotel … any questions? Complaints? No? Well then … I guess all that remains is to relax for the rest of the flight.”

“Sweetheart? Back in Toronto … did you realise we were about a fifteen minute walk from legally getting married at their City Hall?” Maddy cooed.

“Wot about the licence?”

“A minor technicality...”

“I kinda fancy a church wedding, though … don’t you?” Gaby quietly replied.

“How ‘bout an outdoor wedding?”

“Hmm ... I can think of a few places back ‘ome I’d like … but you’re always second guessing the weather … an’ you have to have a ‘Plan B’ in case it rains. Why add to the hassle?”

“You wouldn’t be thinking of a certain ‘Town Church’ as the church of choice ... would you?”

“Umm ... uh huh.”

“I shoulda known there was a method to your madness when you and Kat took me shopping and showed me the town.” Maddy playfully whispered.

“You had it all planned when you and Kat took me shopping ... didn’t you?”

“I did ... Kat was as much in the dark as you...”

“Think they’ll marry us?” Maddy softly asked, as she snuggled up against Gaby’s shoulder.

“Who … the church? They should … it’s legal now,” Gaby whispered back.

“...But I guess we’ll just have to add that to the things we have to look into it when we get back.”

Maddy gazed into her fiancée’s eyes and softly kissed her on the lips, before laying her head back on Gaby’s shoulder.

“I know we weren’t going to really start planning things just yet … but it’d be nice to know our options before we start ... wouldn’t it?”

“It would,” Gaby whispered as she held Maddy tighter.

The wedding dreams of the two girls were interrupted by the clattering of Kristen rummaging through the onboard DVD collection. Seems the rest of the girls decided now was a good time for an in-flight movie.

“Find something suitable we can all enjoy … including Hans,” Jenny reminded Kristen.

“What about this? It’s got something for everybody.” Kristen held up a DVD for the rest to see and approve.

Obviously she was pleased at her selection and when all agreed, she put it on. Nina and Judith were just passing out drinks and a few bags of ‘nuked’ popcorn, when the title appeared on the built-in 40” screen in the front partition of the passenger cabin — ‘Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves’. The flight passed quickly with everyone enjoying the movie.

As the closing credits appeared on the screen, they were accompanied by the song, ‘Everything I Do (I Do For You)’. Kristen came up and knelt down beside Gaby’s seat.

“I can hear why you and Mad like that song so much … it sounds like it was written for you guys,” she quietly commented. Maddy only snuggled closer to Gaby, closed her eyes and started to quietly sing along with the track.

“Yeah … it means a lot,” Gaby sighed with a nod as she used her free hand to hold and squeeze Kristen’s hand.

As she went back to her seat, the voices of the two girls could just barely be heard as they quietly sang along. Upon hearing the girls, Jenny decided to let it play until the very end, before putting the movie away.

“You two have lovely voices,” she whispered as she walked past. Her comment caused both girls to blush and sit up a bit straighter in their seats. They weren’t aware the others had heard them.

Shortly after they cleaned up the cabin, the team was informed to prepare for landing at Vancouver International. As all eyes peered out the windows to get their first glimpse of the city, Jenny pointed out Stanley Park, when it came into view.

They were quick to get on the ground and just as quick to taxi past the large passenger terminals and directly to the corporate airpark.
When the aircraft shut its engines down, the team was met at the plane by the now familiar van/trailer.

“The van and I are here just to move you and the team to and from Stanley Park. I’ll also be using it to take you around the course later on after the park closes, but for the actual race ... you’ll be using one of those new Toyota electric-gas hybrid’s as the team car ... all the teams will have them. You’ll get the keys at the hotel when you get your car assigned.”

By now Hans and Maddy had the unloading routine down pat and in relatively quick time they were starting on their way to the hotel, via Stanley Park.

As they toured the planned racecourse, they made note of the all the geographic features that would figure in any team strategy.

When the van pulled back into the parking lot at the main entrance to the park, the team found themselves being shown to one of the two ‘electric carts’ assigned to the team. Being empty, the cart easily held the entire team as they joined other teams in inspecting the Time Trial course along the top of the Seawall.

As the moved along, the girl’s saw several features of the proposed time trial course, like the twisting nature of the south shore line and the width of the bicycle path along with the vertical rock face that was on the park side of the path for a portion of the south course and of course. Gaby commented on the ‘decorative ledge’ or lack thereof that separated the bicycle path from the vertical edge of the seawall and the water.

“It’ll be great fun taking that at speed ... as long as it’s dry.”

Like the racecourse, one couldn’t escape the dense ‘forest’ of old growth trees, park side! These were all definitely factors that would limit the speed of the competitors.

Back at the hotel, the team decided that they’d all ‘dress’ for dinner as a chance to escape their ‘denim uniforms’. Hans appeared in dress slacks and a shirt. For the ladies, mini skirts and ‘heels’ replaced the usual jeans and trainers.

Partly because they had them and partly because it was a ‘kewel’ statement of team identity, all the girls decided they’d wear the ‘feathered’ earrings they got back at the Tyendinaga Reserve, in addition to their team jackets. Even Jenny joined in the ‘team spirit’ and wore a pair of her earrings from the Trading Post.

Conversation at dinner evolved into the team meeting Jenny had planned for later in the evening. In any case, combined with Jenny’s talk on the plane, their enthusiasm and their tour of Stanley Park, it wasn’t long before they hammered out a plan for the next day’s race and time trial.

In place of the planned meeting and considering they were all dressed up, the girls adjourned to the hotel’s dance club to relax for a couple of hours, before calling it a day.

Next morning, the girls went to breakfast wearing tracksuits over their ‘skins’ and then it was a quick drive to Stanley Park.

Maddy and Hans quickly unloaded the special time trial bikes from the trailer, along with the aerodynamic helmets — each one equipped with a radio receiver to allow communication between the following support vehicle and the rider. In addition, they unloaded two spare time trial bikes, one for each ‘electric cart’.

Each cart also carried a spare front and rear wheel, first aid kit, walkie-talkie as well as a few items not normally associated with a bike race. Since this was being run along the waterfront, they also carried a beach towel, blanket, life ring and a length of rope.

Jenny had returned from checking in with the race organizers with their individual start times. Out of sixty riders, Judith was to start in the thirtieth spot, Nina in the forty-eight position, Kristen in the fifty-fifth position and finally Gaby — dead last. It meant that they had some time to prepare before they actually rode and that they had two strong time-trialer’s on the team.

Since there was a two-minute interval between individual starts and a three-minute interval between the last two start times, it meant a two-hour wait before Gaby actually started the course from the time the first rider was started.

The ‘Beep … beep … beep’ of the countdown, followed by the gentle pressure of the starter’s hand on her back, sent Judith down the shallow ramp of the starting podium and onto the course. A few seconds behind her, Hans pulled out in his cart, staying behind her but keeping her in sight. From the radio on the seat beside him, he was able to hear them relay the times of the riders ahead of her to Judith. At the first checkpoint just after Brockton Point, she checked in with the third best time of the day.

She completed the run with a time of 13.32, putting her temporarily in fourth place.

By the time Judith finished her ride, Nina was preparing to go — probably already on the start podium. Hans relayed Judith’s critique of the course to Jenny who, having the luxury of another body with her, had Maddy relay the information to Nina after she was on the course. During this time, Hans quickly drove back the short distance from the finish at ‘Second Beach’ to the start at Coal Harbour to get ready to follow Kristen on her ride.

As Nina raced through the first checkpoint, she recorded the best time of the day, by .023 of a second. About mid-way between Brockton Point and the second checkpoint at the inlet for Beaver Lake, Nina lost her chain. She rubbed the seawall ledge while negotiating a sweeping turn, but managed to retain control of the bike. Thankfully, she stayed on the bike path and didn’t go over the Seawall’s ledge, ending up in the water.

Jenny quickly pulled the ‘electric cart’ up behind Nina. Maddy had the chain back on the sprockets and Nina back on the course in a matter of seconds, but she’d already lost her lead. Crossing through the second checkpoint Maddy relayed to Nina that she had slipped to tenth position.

By the time Nina crossed the finish line, she managed to re-gain three spots, but was still seventh with a time of 13.64. Jenny had only a few minutes to get back to track Gaby.

Kristen was already well onto the course and through the forth checkpoint at Third Beach, where she recorded the second best time of the day. She completed the course after dropping down to third with a time of 13.25 and an average speed of 40.75kph or 25.23mph.

(Beep … beep … beep) Trisha from Team Exxon, Gaby’s closest rival in the overall tour standings, was off on her run. Seconds after Jenny pulled into her start position Gaby rode up onto the start podium to await her three-minute countdown.

(Beep … beep … beep) Gaby took off like the proverbial 'bat outta hell', with Jenny in hot pursuit. From her radio contact, Jenny learned Trish passed through the first checkpoint with the third best time of the day and Maddy promptly relayed Trish’s time to Gaby as she neared Brockton Point.

Gaby started her ride at a blistering pace. She entered all the tight turns leading to the first checkpoint the same way, by staying on the outer edge and then as she went through, she crossed over to ride the inside shoulder of the turn.

At times she came very close to the rock face that formed some of the Park’s edge to the bike path, but in this manner she was able to maintain her speed through the individual turns. As a result, she was 1.29 seconds better than the previous best time recorded at the first checkpoint.

With the sharpest series of turns behind her, Gaby upped the pace, making Jenny speed up just to maintain the gap. When she passed through the third checkpoint at Prospect Point Lookout, she had slipped back to third position, but only by .22 of a second.

By the fourth checkpoint at Third Beach, she was .011 of a second behind Trisha for first place. Gaby knew there was only one sharp turn left then a relatively clear run to the finish at Second Beach.

As she crossed the finish line, she’d clocked the best time of the day at 12.85. Her computer told her she averaged 42kph or 26.1mph. Gaby learned Trisha finished with a 12.88.

As soon as Jenny stopped the cart, Maddy was out and headed in Gaby’s direction. She had to thread her way through the people at the finish, but found her fiancée. Ignoring those nearby, Maddy threw her arms around Gaby’s neck and gave her a quick kiss on her cheek.

As Jenny took the bike, Maddy directed Gaby to a bench for one of her “patented leg rubs”. It had been years since she had one and as she began, Gaby lay back on the bench and enjoyed every moment of it!

Hans soon had the van at the finish line and together with Maddy, loaded up the trailer with all the team’s equipment. Following a hearty lunch back in town, it was back out to Stanley Park for the two PM start of the 75 kilometre race through the park’s road system.

Starting at the Park’s main entrance, all sixty cyclists were moving towards Brockton Point at a relaxed pace and it continued like that, for the first couple of laps. Due to the width of the double-lanes of the road, the peloton was strung out over a longer distance than one would usually expect. Only slight movement was evident in the pack with everyone becoming accustomed to the course

By the beginning of the third lap, Gaby had the team up close to the front of the peloton after starting off in the middle of the field. After a quick survey of the situation, she felt things had remained status quo long enough. From behind her, Nina watched for her signal, a very subtle nod that could easily be taken for just a normal head movement caused by shifting a rider’s weight and finally she saw it.

She exploded in a burst of speed that brought her from behind Gaby and out, way in front of the main group. A member of Team Exxon and Team Alberta immediately broke away and chased her down, but not before the damage was done.

The ruse worked in that the duel breakaway attempts startled a complacent peloton and caused a void in which the remaining three girls in the team were able to use to launch themselves clear of the main body. As they passed the initial breakaway, the three became six. It worked far better than they planned as the entire team was now in the breakaway group!

Initially out of the saddles to power themselves away from the peloton, they soon opened a forty-second gap between them and the main group. Once the lead group hit the first bend in the road after the break, they sat down and assumed the classic aerodynamic crouched position, taking them through the turn.

Riding in single file, the group of six started performing ‘piano’ — the regular rotation of cyclists at the front, providing ‘drafting’ for the others, thus easing the workload for the group. With the course heavily forested on both sides of the road, they knew that as long as they stayed a bend or two ahead of the main body, they remained hidden from the direct view of the peloton.

After they cleared Prospect Point Lookout, they still enjoyed an almost one full minute lead over the main peloton.

However, everybody in that group knew that until they reached the main entrance to the park and began another lap, the roads were relatively straight with only gentle curves in which to hide from the others. Also, this second half of the course was much faster than the winding first half of the course. This meant the peloton had a chance to close any gaps.

Rounding Ferguson Point, Judith looked over her right shoulder and back along the bending shoreline, to see the lead riders of the peloton riding by Siwash Rock.

As Kristen rode past her to take her turn at the front, Judith suggested that she up the pace a bit. Judith’s computer showed her she was already cruising along at 38kph. The result of her suggestion was that they successfully held their position through the ‘feed’ now set up at the park entrance and maintained it well into the fourth lap!

After the peloton rounded Brockton Point, the lead group became aware of a second breakaway group from the peloton chasing them down.

It wasn’t until the original six entered the twisting roads leading to Prospect Point Lookout that the second group of nine came within sight and when the six slowed to negotiate the sharp turn at Prospect Point Lookout the two groups joined as one. Even now, they enjoyed an almost two minute lead over the peloton. Heading down the long open road going back to the park entrance and the last lap, Kristen recalled Jenny’s prediction of a sprint.

They did lose about a half-minute of that lead once the peloton hit the open road but as soon as they passed the park entrance for the bell lap and started into the winding section of the course that approached Brockton Point, they were able to make up some of the lost time.

As Kristen commented later, “The course was pretty fast, but it had its speed bumps in the form of a couple of winding sections around Brockton Point and Prospect Point Lookout.”

On the final half of the course, there were no less than seven breakaway attempts, four of them initiated by Team Apollinaris. The net result was that the lead group lost five riders and of the nine that remained, Kristen noted four were very good sprinters. Once the group turned onto the final 2 kilometre run along the Lost Lagoon to the park entrance, what few ‘attacks’ there were, became more serious in nature.

At the 200m marker, the ‘attacks’ amongst the leaders noticeably increased in frequency. There were no friends now.

At 100m with Kristen riding on her back wheel, Gaby shot out from the pack. She was quickly followed by about a half-dozen other riders. As they passed 50 metres, a couple of riders where still keeping the blistering pace with the two Apollinaris girls.

With nothing more than a quick glance back at Kristen, the two suddenly parted company as they both dramatically upped the pace. Initially, the move had generated the confusion they wanted, but the more experienced players in the sprint soon saw signs that Gaby was fading and quickly focused their efforts on Kristen.

Many seconds later, the leaders started crossing the finish line. After all was said and done, it was Kristen by a wheel! Gaby, Judith and Nina placed 5th, 7th and 8th respectively.

Hans and Maddy were quick to wipe down the bikes and pack everything up, while the girls used the time to cool down. As he raised the trailer’s ramp, Jenny ushered Maddy and the girls into the van for their ride back to the hotel. She had also decided they were to make use of the hotel pool and sauna facilities to relax, before dinner. No one questioned that decision.

A bit more than two hours later they were all back in their rooms, changed and ready to meet for dinner. As Jenny was finishing her make-up, Maddy answered a knock at their hotel room’s door. Gaby greeted her fiancée, then entered the room and walked up to where her mum was seated.

“Mum … can I ask you something?” Gaby asked.

“I’m your mother, kiddo … you know you can talk to me about anything that’s bothering you,” Jenny light-heartedly replied. Gaby gently grasped Maddy’s hand and pulled her closer.

“Do you know if Mad and I can get married at the ‘Town Church’?”

“Is that what you two want?” Jenny questioned, addressing the two girls.

“Uh huh … they have to marry us don’t they? It’s legal an’ everything,” Gaby wondered.

“Why worry about it now? After all you and Maddy have said it won’t happen until she’s finished university.” Jenny glanced at Maddy as she spoke.

“Still … it’d be nice to know if we’re going to be planning a church wedding … or something smaller at City Hall … wouldn’t it?” Gaby replied.

“You’re right, of course. A bride should know these little details. But remember … although same-sex marriages are now legal … it just means the Federal Government made it legal ... and City Hall has no choice but to marry you. As I understand it, though … an individual church still does have that choice,” Jenny explained.

“Don’t you girls worry about it now … okay? I believe the senior vicar at the church is still Reverend Albrecht. We’ll stop in and make some inquiries when we get back, okay? Now let’s go and meet the others for dinner!”

Both girls gave Jenny a hug before all three left the room for dinner and their last night in Canada … for now.
 
 
Comments are Greatly Appreciated!

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To Be Continued...
 

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Photo Credit: Licensed royalty free. Provided by PD Photo.org .

 

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Chapter 5
 
As the team plane lifted off from Vancouver International, Jenny announced they only have one more stop in Canada.

“It’ll be a refueling stop in Gander, Newfoundland … just to top up the tanks and then a direct flight to Amsterdam, Holland.”

She then decided to give them a glimpse of what’s to come and to give them a pat on the back for a tour well ridden.

“I’ll say a bit more later … but up until now this team has done beautifully. You’ve handled everything thrown at you and you’ve done it very well … both individually … and as a team.”

“These last two races on the ‘Tour’ will actually be world class in every respect, including the competition. We’ll see more teams and individual competitors than we did in the US or Canada. Being a World Cup race … you’ll also get your first real taste of world-class size crowds … as the fan base in Europe is much greater than in North America … even for a junior event.”

She paused for effect and then continued, “This team has been entered in the junior ‘Ronde van Gelderland 2008’ … out of Apeldoorn, Holland.”

Jenny glanced over to Kristen and noticed she resembled the Cheshire cat from ‘Alice in Wonderland’.

“Thought you’d like that, Kris …your Grandmother still lives there?”

“I haven’t seen her in three years … do you think I’d have time before we have to leave?”

“We’ll make time … don’t you worry about it,” Jenny quietly replied.

“Now … the last thing I’ll say about the ‘Ronde van Gelderland’ is this that this one is for the … 2008 Women’s Junior World Champion.”

This time, she looked at both Gaby and Kristen.

“The final race will be back in Germany in a town called Schmá¶lln … and this’ll be for the 2008 Women’s Junior World Cup title.”

“The course you’ll be riding, there is the same course used for Stages 4 and 5 of the 2006 Internationale Thá¼ringen-Rundfahrt der Frauen ... and like Vancouver … it’ll consist of both a time trial and a road race on the same-day.”

She finished up by stating, “We’ll have three days before the ‘Ronde van Gelderland’ so for today, we can relax.”

As Jenny rose from her seat to go back to the kitchenette, Judith approached her.

“Jenny … can we talk to you for a sec?”

“Certainly … what about?” Jenny asked as Nina and Kristen joined Judith.

Nina spoke for the three girls.

“We haff been thinking ever since Gabi told us she was going pro … und we would kind of like to stay mit her … also go pro … if you think ... we are ready.”

“I’ve been wondering when you girls would ask. I thought I saw it in your eyes when Gaby announced her plans back in Toronto,” Jenny admitted.

“As for being ready … all of you have proven and not only to me on this tour … but to George … even back when you were training with the pro team … that you can easily make the transition.”

“… and what’s more … both George and I think you’re ready. We just had to hear it from you.”

Jenny looked at her daughter and called over to her.

“Gaby … you’ve got some real friends here. They all want to follow you to the pro team.”

Returning her gaze to the other girls on the team, Jenny informed them of her intentions, then immediately issued a cautionary warning.

“When we get back to Bad Neuenahr … I’ll ask George for a meeting with each of you … alright? But don’t let this go to your heads. You still have two very important races to ride.”

“We won’t Jenny … Danke!” Judith enthused.

The stopover at Gander, although short as promised, was long enough to allow everyone an opportunity to grab something to eat. It was late afternoon when they finally left Newfoundland behind and headed out over the Atlantic.

“Can I have your attention? I know our bodies think it’s still early … but I think it might be a good idea if you set you watches ahead and then seriously consider getting some sleep. It’ll make things a lot easier when we land.”

“In Amsterdam, it’s now eleven PM. There’s some blankets back there in the closet … if you want them.”

“Uh … Jenny?” Kristen quietly called out as she moved from her chair to collect the blankets.

When she got Mrs. Bond’s attention, she pointed over to the two lovebirds already snuggled together, asleep on the small couch that was along one wall of the plane’s cabin.

“At least someone’s got the right idea,” Jenny quietly agreed.

Kristen covered the two girls before grabbing a blanket for herself and heading back to her seat.

A few hours later, Eric came back into the cabin and proceeded to quietly awaken Jenny from her sleep.

“Frau Bond! You asked to be awakened when we are approaching the English Channel. We are there!”

“Danke Eric … let Hans know and I’ll get the girls up.”

When she walked back to the kitchenette to put the kettle on, she shook Maddy’s shoulder as she passed the couch.

“Rise and shine, dear … and wake my daughter while you’re at it?” Jenny softly requested.

“ Mmmm … morning lover,” Maddy quietly cooed and then followed her greeting by a light kiss on Gaby’s lips.

“Mornin’ … (sigh)…”

As signs of life began to show amongst the others, Jenny cheerfully let the girls know they were almost ready to land.

“Eric tells me that it won’t be too long until we put down in Amsterdam. When customs are satisfied, it’s just a short drive to our hotel in Apeldoorn. Once there … we can all freshen up, grab a good breakfast and generally try to join the living … okay?”

Shortly after being asked to fasten their seat belts, the girls felt the plane begin its descent into Amsterdam and a short time later they were on the ground and heading for a private corporate hanger.

After checking in at the arrival desk, Hans collected the keys for the team’s leased van and trailer. While the others waited at the plane, he brought it around where he and Maddy made short work of off-loading the team’s equipment from the plane under the watchful eyes of customs officials.

The paperwork completed, everyone piled into the van and then with Jenny navigating and Hans doing the driving, the team finally made their way out of Amsterdam and set off towards Apeldoorn.

After missing a turn or two, the group eventually arrived at their hotel and Hans located the reserved area in the car park for the cycling teams.

“I think I should’ve let you navigate, dear. There’s a reason your ol’ man would rather have you do it on trips and unfortunately ... everyone now knows,” Jenny playfully whispered to Gaby as they both got out of the van.

“I won’t tell ‘im you got us lost...” Gaby mischievously hissed.

Once in the hotel, Jenny gave some last minute instructions.

“Okay, before you all run for the showers … it’s … ummm … almost nine. How about we meet back here at ten-thirty? That should give everyone time to unpack and make themselves pretty…”

A few chuckles broke out amongst the team as all eyes shot towards Hans.

“Well ... most of us, at least,” Jenny continued as she realised her blunder.

“Meet back here at ten-thirty like I said … then we’ll decide the question of food.”

Once in their room, Kristen offered the shower to Gaby while she picked up the phone and started to punch some numbers.

“You go ahead, Gabs. I’m gonna call my Grandmother and let her know I’m in town.”

“Thanks … I’ll try to be quick!”

“Hallo?” Kristen heard a familiar voice in the handset.

“Hallo is oma … met Kristen!” Kris enthused. “Ik ben hier in Apeldoorn met het team. We verblijven het Bilderburg Hotel DE Keizerskroon. Ik deel kamer 615 met een ander meisje, Gaby Bond.”

After explaining that she’s in Apeldoorn with the Junior Team Apollinaris to compete in the ‘Junior Ronde van Gelderland 2008’, she promised to call again when she had a better idea of the team’s schedule. Kristen also told her that the team’s Direktor assured her that she would have time to visit.

When finally Gaby emerged, Kristen eagerly ran for the shower.

At the appointed time, the team gathered in the hotel lobby and began their search for food. Jenny mentioned there would be a short team meeting following their late breakfast and then everyone was free to rest up for the task at hand.

“Did you manage to call your Gran, Kristen?” inquired Jenny, between bites. She nodded her head.

“I let her know I was in town and told her I’d call back when I had a better idea of our schedule.”

“Well … after the meeting … you’re free for the day. I’ll keep it short,” Jenny countered.

“Okay people! I just to let you know what you’re facing this time … then tomorrow we’ll take a good look at this course!”

Jenny paused briefly and then revealed, “This will be your longest race to-date ... it’s 140 kilometres in length … starting and finishing at the Loolaan in Apeldoorn.”

Allowing that to sink in, she scanned the long faces of her team.

“I know you can do it as you’ve all ridden those distances … and longer … with the pro team. It’s really all just mind over matter,” Jenny urged.

“You can always think of it like this … once on the pro team … 140 kilometres is just another boring day in a stage race,” she added with a playful grin.

Calling up the official race site on her laptop, Jenny linked to the course map and profile. The four girls huddled close around the screen as Jenny described the course.

“Okay … when you start out, you’ll be taking a small road along the river Ijssel where you can expect a few hills. The first one will be just outside of Rheden, about 77 kilometres into the race. Because you loop around at that point … you’ll encounter the same hill at the 85 kilometre mark.”

Jenny mentioned there were a total of nine hills that vary from a 30-meter to 100-meter ascents and detailed every one in terms of height, the ascent grade and were they are on the course.

“I want to point out, that two of the nine hills are right at the start/finish routes … just outside of the city … so keep that in mind … and pace yourselves accordingly.

She wrapped up the meeting with a summary on the expected competition and also gave the team their first look at the Route Schedule.

The rest of the day saw the team doing the tourist thing, with Kristen acting as guide. They even managed to get in some shopping and later that evening, Kristen’s grandmother hosted the team for dinner.

The next morning saw the girls out with Jenny and Hans, on the course. Since the circuit wasn’t yet closed to normal traffic, they all piled in the van to drive rather than ride, the full course. Hans made frequent stops to allow the girls to study a feature.

Jenny pointed out that even though kilometre 0 is at the Loolaan/Heuvellaan, the official start is in Wiesel, 2.4 kilometres away.

On the way through the various towns, Jenny and the girls noted any features of the roads, like concrete islands, roundabouts, narrowing of the road and other points of interest — including hills and a lift bridge! They also noted there would be a single feed at Middachterallee, 71.2 kilometres into the race.

The first two hills they would encounter, was the Zijpenberg with a 90-meter ascent. Since the course looped at Rheden, the girls would encounter this hill twice. Jenny pointed out of all the nine hills they would negotiate, this particular one was the highest but she made sure the girls were familiar with each and every one as well as all the twists and turns.

When they got back to the hotel, she immediately called another team meeting to thoroughly discuss all they had seen. After lunch, she donned her skins, grabbed one of the spare bikes and took the girls on a short ride following the last portion of the course between Apeldoorn and Arnhem, a round trip of approximately 95 kilometres.

The final day prior to the race was spent with practising tactics and honing skills.

The Dutch were well represented with several teams, but the girls noted their competition also included teams from Great Britain, Canada, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Italy, the US, Switzerland and that other German team. There were 150 riders at the two-thirty start, far more than the girls had encountered in a single race thus far in the tour.

Even before hitting the official start at Wiesal, the leaders in the peloton were setting a fast pace, averaging 35-40kph. In keeping with their successes in North America, the team had come to prefer initially keeping a comfortable position back in the peloton, but not so far back that they couldn’t move up when they felt the time was right.

After snaking through the streets of Vaassen, the peloton was beginning to stretch out over a long distance and upon exiting the town, Gaby felt they hung back long enough. In the 4 kilometres between Vaassen and Epe, she’d gradually eased the team up to a point where they could see the leaders and breakout if given the chance.

As the field approached Deventer and its three small narrow bridges, all of Team Apollinaris made their move. Nina slowly moved up and then burst out of the mass of cyclists, inviting others to chase her down.

“Will they never learn? … Not that I want them to!” Gaby thought as some girls from the Dutch Junior Women’s National Team, Team High Road and the Swiss Junior Women’s National Team took the bait.

Like in Vancouver, the ruse worked yet again, causing chaos among the peloton’s leaders and allowing the rest of the team to escape almost unchallenged. As they passed Nina and the remnants of her breakaway, she re-joined her teammates. In the process they acquired four other riders, Monique and Noortje from the Dutch Junior Women’s team and two old friends - Uta from Team High Road and Denise from the Canadian Junior Women’s team.

After winding through several towns and working together, the lead group of eight found themselves a full minute and a half ahead of the main peloton. Even when she wasn’t taking her turn at the front of the group, Gaby’s computer was showing a speed of 43-45kph!

She recalled her mum had mentioned the Route Schedule was calculated on an average speed of 40kph, so they weren’t far off the pace. It was the rest of the peloton that was below the mark.

Once they hit Ellecom, Gaby knew it was a straight 7.2 kilometres to her first hill — the Zijenberg. She knew she could out climb the rest of her teammates, Uta and Denise but she was less sure of Monique and Noortje.

As she approached the Zijenburg for the first time, she rose out of the saddle and broke from the group when they were well into the ascent. The only one to follow was Noortje and at the crest, it was close but Gaby still took the points. Her plan had worked and she was now aware of her competition for the remaining hills.

It wasn’t long before she realised she that was a far better descender than Noortje and that was her ‘Achilles heel’ she could exploit whenever possible. Jenny always told her she had no fear in the descents and she was bound to prove her mum right, even if she did still have a healthy respect for pavement and gravity.

At the bottom of the descent, knowing it would be far easier to work in a group, Gaby deliberately sat up allowing the others to catch up to her.

As the small group completed the long loop in the course and approached the hill for a second time, Gaby changed her strategy.

Still feeling good, she again made her break in the ascent but this time much further up the steep grade when the others were too committed to struggling up the hill to try anything. Although she struggled to rise out of her saddle this time, her gamble paid off and she reached the crest unchallenged.

Back at the bottom, she again eased back, waiting for the others to join her.

The next four hills were much the same with a battle between Gaby and Noortje. Of the first three, Gaby only allowed Noortje to take one — Geitenkamp near Arnhem. Noortje also took Terlet, outside of Arnhem but only because the sustained fast pace was taking its toll on Nina and Gaby hung back, pacing her teammate up the grade.

With a little over 32 kilometres to go, the small group still had the original eight and their lead over the main peloton had increased to a little over two full minutes.

Gaby knew she had one hill left before Apeldoorn and that was the Berg De Dalweg at Hoenderloo. The team had earmarked that one for her and they acted accordingly. Even though it was only about a 30-meter ascent, it was steep but she was able to call upon her hill-climb competition experience and as a result, easily took the points.

For the next 22 kilometres the course was all downhill, through Beekbergen then on to Apeldoorn. They re-entered Apeldoorn with 17 kilometres remaining, only to exit the city at the 11 kilometre mark and prepared to tackle their second last hill.

As they approached Wilsaan, Judith and Denise noticed the group of eight was now six with both Nina and Noortje having dropped back but still remaining in sight. With her main hill-climbing rival behind her, Gaby easily took the points on Wilsaan and Amersfoortseweg,

The good news for Team Apollinaris was that three of them were still together and Nina was less than a half of kilometre back, facing a nice easy downhill run to the finish. The bad news was that they still had three strong riders with them in the persons of Uta, Denise and Monique.

Gaby and Kristen had seen both Uta and Denise fade in shorter races and judging by their faces, they didn’t have much more to give.

However, Monique was an unknown. She was also riding on ‘home turf’, so she was determined to give a good accounting of herself.
With 4 kilometres left to go and Monique at the front of the six, Gaby, Judith and Kris took turns attacking her, trying to bait her into a chase in an effort to determine just what she had left in her.

Just after the 2 kilometre marker Gaby signalled Judith to break out. Monique took the bait and chased her down but no sooner did she catch her than Kristen bolted past them. Again Monique gave chase.

At the 1 kilometre marker all six were back together and Monique was once again the subject of a game of cat and mouse. She was the cat, up against three very troublesome mice!

Passing the half kilometre marker, Kristen started to break to the right but found herself boxed in against the curb by Uta, Denise and Monique. They obviously thought she was the main threat and planned to contain her until the last possible moment then break for a short sprint.

Sensing that they had been all but forgotten, Judith and Gaby seized the moment with Judith rocketing up the middle of the road past the four girls. At the same time, Gaby bolted off on the left curb. As expected, Uta and Denise started to give chase to the two girls, but faded before they seriously threatened either girl.

Denise and Monique were possible threats to Judith so while she kept their attention and with a little over 100 meters to go, Gaby called on whatever she had left and made her move.

Monique decided to leave Kristen’s side and rose from her saddle to challenge Gaby but by the time she had enough speed to be a serious threat, Gaby crossed the finish line with a good five or six bike lead! Judith crossed second and with the other three leaving her alone, Kristen came in third. A clean sweep by Team Apollinaris! Gaby’s official time was 3:15:15.

As Gaby’s bike slowed to a walking pace, Hans ran up and grabbed it. Maddy ran up to Gaby excitedly yelling, “You won! … You’re the new Women’s Junior World Champion!”

As she got closer, she lunged to grab a slumping Gaby as the three other girls approached with their bikes.

“Gabeeee … say a few syllables! … please?” Maddy pleaded as she held Gaby while race officials tried to keep everyone at arm’s length except for team members.

“Uh huh,” Gaby mumbled through a smirk. Despite her chest heaving to take in oxygen, she accepted Maddy’s loving embrace.

“Are you going to finish all your races like this?” Maddy asked as she wrapped her arms around Gaby and looked at her bewildered fiancée.

With a tearful sigh, Maddy momentarily looked up at the sky then returned her gaze to Gaby and mumbled, “Oh, gawd … what am I going to do with you?”

“Well…” Gaby breathed with a mischievous smirk.

As Jenny found the team in the crowd, she looked at Hans and then smiled at the lovebirds. “I guess I’ll just have to get used to standing in line to congratulate my own daughter.”

“I can take a hint,” Maddy jokingly shot back as stood aside to allow Jenny to hug Gaby.

During the podium ceremony, Jenny’s pride in the Junior Team Apollinaris was quite evident. Back at the hotel, she hosted a small celebratory dinner for the girls.

“Gaby’s captured the 2008 Women’s Junior World Championship and it was the longest single race the girls had ridden thus far — what’s more, they all stayed together and rode as a team, all the way! All that and a 1, 2, 3 finish - God, these girls have done really well!”

While the girls enjoyed some well deserved ‘down time’, relaxing in Nina/Judith’s room, Jenny put in a conference call to both Dave and George informing them of the day’s race results. She found it hard not to be excited over the level of teamwork displayed by the girls, not only in this race but also in the whole World Cup series, to date.

Jenny was also justifiably proud of her daughter’s accomplishment, earlier in the day.

She also mentioned the wishes of the other three girls, to turn pro with Gaby after the race in Schmá¶lln. Once she finished, Jenny went to inform the girls of the call and to tell them to pack after breakfast as they were scheduled to leave for Germany late the following morning.

At seven-thirty, Jenny’s requested wake-up call rousted the girls from their beds. Later, she visited each of their rooms, gathering the team members and herding them down to the lobby.

“C’mon people … let’s get some breakfast … then back upstairs to pack and when you’re done … my room!” .

Back upstairs, Jenny looked at their eager faces.

“Since the flight will be only about an hour, consider this as our usual meeting.”

She continued with a detailed run down of the course, courtesy of her laptop.

“To begin … we’ll be landing in Leipzig and then it’s only a short drive to Schmá¶lln. The course for the time trial and the road race is identical … the only difference is that the road race is four laps for a total of 74.4 kilometres and the time trial is a single lap of 18.7 kilometres.”

“Both will be held on Tuesday with the time trial in the morning and the road race in the afternoon. On Monday, we’ll have a one-lap ‘recon’ ride to take a look at the course. Today, we get settled in and check in with the organizers ... the usual routine.”

After a brief pause to see if anyone had any comments, she continued.

“When we get out on the course, you’ll see why it was meant for our resident mountain goat … even the so-called flat sections are a slight uphill or downhill grade. Not too much in the way of level road, I’m afraid. The two rated ascents on the course are both seven percent.”

“You’ll also discover your first climb is right at kilometre 0. Like I said before, it’s a seven percent grade with a vertical rise of some forty metres. The last climb on each lap is a three-step ascent with a vertical rise of about sixty metres … but what a nice downhill run into the finish!”

Jenny paused again, then resumed.

“Finally … keep these two things in mind when formulating your strategy on Monday’s ride … again … it’s a course well suited to all of you … but … especially to Gaby’s hill climbing and descending talents!”

“Since the finish is at the bottom of a long downhill … it’s not going to be the sprinter’s that decide this close race. It’s going to be the one who can handle the descent the best. They’ll have the advantage at the finish … and that may be your ace-in-the-hole if you find yourselves in a group on that final descent.”

Following the meeting, they made their way down to the van and eventually back to the Amsterdam airport. After an uneventful flight to Leipzig and the short drive into Schmá¶lln, the team arrived at the hotel.

Following check-in, while Hans and Maddy took care of the team’s equipment, the girls took care of the registration process for the race and by the time everyone completed their tasks, it was time to hunt for food and settle for the evening.

On Monday, Jenny again took one of the spare bikes and led the team on a familiarization ride over the course. Even though each lap of the course is only expected to take about a half hour to ride, the team found themselves stopping frequently to study the area or hone their skills needed for this course by re-riding a particular section, several times. Six hours later and feeling confident about the next day’s race, they finally made it back to the hotel.

Tuesday arrived and as usual, everyone was up and mobile by seven AM. Following breakfast and all the various individual preparations, the girls were on the line at Markt Pfarrgasse for their turn to start the Time Trial. Like Vancouver, the ranking of the cyclists meant they started in the last quarter of the field with Gaby again dead last on the course.

Precisely at nine-thirty, the first of 120 riders was off on the course. Four hours later, the best time of the day to beat was 28:47:26, posted by Amanda Sullivan of the Australian Junior National team. So far the best for the Junior Team Apollinaris was Nina with 31:15:47. Good enough for twelfth position.

(Beep, Beep, Beep)

With a gentle nudge on the back by the starter, Gaby was off on the course. She took the Bergkuppe with its 500m slope with relative ease. Going through the first checkpoint at Kummer, she recorded a 3:33:00, third best time of the day. At the mid-way point at Weisbach, she went through at a blistering 12:04:01, by far the best time of the day. Soon as she cleared Weisbach, Gaby entered her first long descent, which she powered through despite the two right hand turns at Selka and Sommeritz.

After a quick left at the watertower in Sommeritz, she pedaled through her second major descent with her computer showing a fast 85kph. Just outside of Sommeritz the descent reversed itself to become her last major climb, this one being some six hundred meters at a rated grade of seven percent The momentum gained from the previous descent, bled off quickly but she still recorded the best time going through the final checkpoint at the crest of the hill. There was only a long downhill run to the finish. She crossed with a 28:00:00, winning the Time Trial.

Following a massage, lunch and a quick briefing, it was back in the bike saddle for the girls and the four-thirty start of the 74 kilometre road race. With the team now totally familiar with the course, each girl knew what had to be done. Gaby was still relying on the team gaining a position near the front to the peloton early in the race.

Critical to the team’s planned strategy was to not only get them up the hills together, but to stay together throughout the race. If they became separated on the descents, the plan was to re-group at the bottom. It was very successful in Apeldoorn and they hoped they could adopt the formula for Schmá¶lln.

Jenny knew it was Gaby’s climbing ability coupled with her aggressive, almost reckless descents that would combine to be a very real advantage for the team. At the same time, she was concerned with the girls’ ability to stay grouped. Where Apeldoorn was relatively flat with a few hills, Schmá¶lln was the exact opposite.

As the peloton rolled past the official start at Markt Pfarrgasse and onto their first hill, the four hundred meter grade of Bergkuppe, the team was sitting in the first third.

Approaching the hill, Gaby rose out of the saddle followed by the rest of the team. The maneuver had two benefits. It allowed the weaker hill-climbers like Nina to add power to get up the slope, thus keeping the team together and unexpectedly, allowed the team to move up a few places in the peloton. Although she’d expected some riders would lose momentum on the slope, she didn’t figure it would be as many that actually did. As a result the main peloton became stretched out, temporarily breaking into three distinct groups.

Once the girls were able to make any kind of a breakaway, the profile of the course played right into the hands of the team’s strategy.

Pedaling through the descents rather than freewheeling, as the majority of riders would do, allowed the team to increase any time gaps. Any increased speed they had when they reached the bottom of one hill served to greatly assist any effort to ascend the next hill, while the few flat areas served to offer a chance to rest and gather themselves for the next descent or hill climb.

Over the course of three laps, the peloton split twice and suffered a few failed attempts by some to breakaway. One attack did go unchallenged on lap three and managed to chase down Team Apollinaris during the six hundred metre ascent outside of Sommeritz, leading back down into Schmá¶lln.

It was during the descent that half of this newly arrived ‘chase group’ was dropped because of their weaker descending skills. Judith’s computer read 87kph when they neared the bottom of the hill and they found themselves having to brake so they could safely make the long left into Schmá¶lln.

Whether it was skill, reckless abandon, an adrenalin rush or a combination of all three, it carried the leader’s effortlessly up the next slope and over the crest. Back on the ‘flats’, the rogue group quickly re-assumed ‘piano’, with each cyclist taking turns to lead the group.

It was during one change of leadership, when Kristen was drifting back to assume her place at the end of the line, she glanced over her shoulder and realized the main peloton or the lead elements of the peloton were no longer in view. As she drifted past, she informed Gaby of this development.

As the merry band approached the large hill at Kummer for the last time, Gaby knew that with it being roughly the halfway point of the bell lap, something would have to be done with their ‘guests’. She quickly decided that they’d keep the status quo until the very last climb. Her plan was to try to loose them on the ascent, providing the rest of the team wasn’t exhausted themselves.

As each of her teammates drifted past her after doing their stint at the head of the line, Gaby gave them a subtle signal to follow her lead. Another thing in their favour was that the lead group had become somewhat complacent with their large gap, relaxing the pace a bit.

About one-third of the way up the last climb, Gaby once again rose out of her saddle and powered her way out front of the leader’s. Although the other three tried to do the same, Judith had the only other successful attempt. Together they reached the crest a few bike lengths ahead of the leader of the group they just left.

Once past the crest, they were gone. As both girls powered down the descent into Schmá¶lln, they were well aware of that sharp final turn at the base of the hill.

Judith approached it by riding across the lanes right-to-left and holding to the middle of the road as she went into the turn, then recovering near the right-hand curb as she exited.

Gaby followed much the same line of approach, but appeared to have overshot her entry. As soon as she made a sudden correction, her bike started to shake and it appeared as if she was going to lose it at the height of the turn.

She recovered, missing the right-hand curb by inches and in the process narrowly passed Judith in a short dash to the finish. In the end, it was Gaby and Judith, followed within a bike length by Kate Spratt of the Junior Australian National Team.

Jenny ran up to congratulate Gaby and hugged her tightly.

“You keep that up, young lady … an’ you’re going to give your ol’ mum a coronary!” Jenny whispered in her daughter’s ear and in a more normal voice, added, “I’m so proud of you! … It’s only a very select few that can claim both the Women’s Junior World Cup and Junior World Championship in the same year.”

Maddy’s first comments were a bit more forceful and direct.

“Don’t ever … do ... that ... again!” She then added, “But ... I’m so proud of you!” and then proceeded to wrap her arms tightly around her fiancée.

Next morning, life had returned to normal and traffic into Leipzig was the usual Wednesday stop and go. Once the team made it to the airport and got things loaded onto the aircraft it was less than an hour’s flight from Leipzig to Bonn.

When the engines of the Challenger 604 finally shut down in front of the Apollinaris corporate hanger, Mike was there with the same mini-bus that he used to drive them to the airport.

“Willkommen! Let’s get all this stuff packed and we go back to Bad Neuenahr, Ja?” Mike enthusiastically greeted the team as they got off the aircraft. “George und Dave are anxious to see you girls.”

On the way back, Mike chatted with Hans and Jenny while the girls largely stayed silent. They were just glad to be getting back home. Maddy and Gaby had mixed feelings and just sat quietly in their seats, cuddled up to each other as much as the bus’ seating would allow.

On one hand, they were both glad to have completed the World Cup and spent the summer together but on the other hand, their time together was fast drawing to a close. Maddy would be retuning to Warsop on Sunday.

It was just after noon when the mini-bus pulled into the Team’s training facility. Together Mike, Hans, Kat and Maddy made short work of off-loading everything. Soon after they started to wipe down the bikes, Jenny appeared in the shop door and asked Maddy to accompany her to George’s office.

“Something wrong?”

“No … we just need a witness to a signing … and I thought of you. I can’t do it as I’m related to Gaby.”

“You could witness the others.”

“True … but it’d look better if the same person signed all four contracts.”

When the two entered George’s office, they saw the entire Junior Team Apollinaris, Dave and another man that Jenny identified as lawyer for the Team Apollinaris’ organization, all sitting around the large table that dominated one half of his office.

As they sat down, George started off by stating how pleased everyone including corporate Apollinaris, was with the junior team’s performance and with Gaby for winning both the Women’s Junior World Championship and being overall first in the standings for the Junior World Cup. As far as they were concerned, the junior team validated the decision to go with Jenny’s suggestion of creating a youth program.

He went on to also say how very pleased he was to be able to offer each of the four girls that made up the Junior Team Apollinaris, an initial two-year contract with Team Apollinaris.

The lawyer then went through the contracts with the girls, ensuring they understood every detail. When everyone was satisfied with everything, each girl signed their contacts, in all the indicated spaces. Maddy then countersigned each contract.

Following the meeting, George, Dave and Jenny socialized with all the girls before leaving the complex for the day. While Mike drove the girls to their homes, Maddy and Gaby went with her parents and Jules.

“Dave … it’s still early enough in the day … could you swing around to the ‘Town Church’ on the way home? The girls would like to see if Rev. Albrecht is around.”

Jenny put her hand on Dave’s arm as she settled in the front passenger seat.

“Don’t you have to schedule things like that?” Dave asked.

“At least the girls could meet him. Right now they just want to know if they can get married in the church … or … if they should be thinking city hall … and I agree. It’s just not right for them not to know. They can’t do any planning … let alone even dream of their wedding until they know what they’re dealing with.”

At the church, Jenny and the girls were able to briefly meet with Rev. Albrecht where they learned that the church would perform a same-sex wedding. They also briefly met his new assistant, Rev. Gotthard. Before they left, the girls were asked to schedule a longer meeting at a later date.

Jenny informed the two ministers that Maddy was off to university back in England, but would be in Bad Neuenahr for the occasional visit and that Gaby would schedule a meeting to coincide with one of her visits. The girls left the church feeling another hurdle had been conquered.

Ever since they left the training facility, Gaby noticed her dad had been noticeably quiet whenever the subject of her signing with Team Apollinaris came up in conversation.

While Jenny and Maddy prepared supper, Gaby looked for her dad and eventually found him alone in his den.

“Daddy … what’s wrong? You‘ve been terribly quiet ever since I signed. Was I wrong?” Gaby asked as she put her arms around her dad.

(sigh) “It’s your life, Petal ... but watching you sign … I just saw your mother … and it brought back some uncomfortable memories,” Dave quietly replied.

“Promise me you won’t repeat her mistakes with Maddy … she doesn’t deserve that.”

Gaby laid her head on her dad’s shoulder and whispered, “Don’t worry, Daddy. I may be like Mum when it comes to bikes ... but … don’t forget I was also on the receiving end … just like you an’ Jules were. I remember it all too well.”

“Even if Drew didn’t always show it … it was there ... (sniff) an’ it hurt...” Gaby added in a breaking whisper. She then heaved a heavy sigh and held her dad tightly.

“I promise … I’ll leave the sport before I start treating Mad like that … I can’t put her through what we went through.”

Then in a more upbeat voice she exclaimed, “C’mon … betcha supper’s almost ready.”

Meanwhile, back in Warsop…

“Carol … sit down, luv … I’ve got something we have to discuss,” John solemnly announced as he came home from work.

“I’m listening.”

“Don called me into his office this afternoon and dropped a bombshell into my lap. It seems there’s a vacant high-level management position and that they feel I’d be the right person for the job.”

“More money?” Carol asked.

“Oh, yeah…” John grimaced.

“Do you think you can do it?”

“Yep…”

“Why do I see a big ‘but’ on the end of that?”

John saw a chance to wind his wife up even more. In a serious voice, he revealed, “We’d have to move from here...”

He paused to let Carol’s reaction register and when he saw her face drop, he cheerfully added, “To Germany! It’s in our Bonn office.”
Carol was excited at the prospect of moving to Germany.

“My God ... take it! You said it’s more money and we’d be close to Jenny and Dave again. From what Maddy tells me … Mayscho០is an easy commute to Bonn … by train or car. We’ll also get to see our daughter a lot more than if we stayed here.”

“Huh?” John was confused at Carol’s last comment.

“I think they plan to live in Mayscho០or near Bad Neuenahr after they’re married, dear.”

“Oh … well ... in that case I better tell Don that I accept the position tomorrow when I see him at the club ... hadn’t I?”

“When would we have to move?” Carol asked.

“I guess I’ll be over there a few days a month until I get the ‘lay of the land’. I wouldn’t expect the move to be done for a while yet but I’ll learn more after I talk to Don.”

“I’ve got to call Jen!”

“No you don’t ... not yet, anyways. Let me at least accept the job first,” John joked.

“If things go well, it looks like I’ll be making my own call to Dave next week to get an idea of the local housing picture. Don also told me that if I took the position being upper management and all, the firm will cover any relocation costs ... which means m’dear ... nothing comes out of pocket.”

“When we pick Maddy up Sunday … we’ll tell her.” Carol insisted.
 
 
Comments are Greatly Appreciated!

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To Be Continued...
 

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Photo Credit: Licensed royalty free. Provided by PD Photo.org .

 

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Chapter 6
 
Four and a half years later - 2012;(Gaby and Maddy are now 23)

“GABY … DAD’S READY TO GO!” Jules shouted to her sister from the bottom of the stairs.

“… ARE YA REad … dee?” As she saw Gaby descend the stairs, Jules fell into a stunned silence.

“WOW! … An’ exactly who you planning to seduce?” Jules mischievously asked.

Well aware her mum was within earshot, the temptation to wind her up was just too great to pass up. Gaby shot back a reply without missing a beat.

“Maddy … if I can lose her parents for the evening.”

“Gabrielle Drew Bond!” Jenny stormed out from around the corner.

Judging by the ‘outrage’ in her voice, Gaby knew her mum took the bait. However, that anger quickly changed to embarrassment when saw the faces of Dave and the two girls.

“Bloody ‘ell! And you … David Bond! You just stood there!”

Jenny tried to turn on her husband, but she was laughing too hard to sound convincing.

“I must say … you do look … very lovely,” Jenny managed to get out after the laughing had died down and some dignity recovered.

“Thank you,” Gaby replied as she gave her mum a hug. “I’ll see you Sunday,” she added before giving her mum a peck on the cheek.

She also gave Jules a hug before turning to go out the door with her dad to pick up Maddy’s parents on the way to the Ká¶ln-Bonn Airport.

They arrived at the departures terminal in plenty of time and after they confirmed their Sunday return flight, Dave assured them that he’d be there to meet them and then started his journey back to MayschoáŸ.
Gaby was joining the Peters to fly to Manchester for Maddy’s graduation from UMIST.

She figured that since the ceremonies were on the Friday, it would allow plenty of time for the two of them to go into Warsop to see Em and if they were around, Bernie and Ally.

On the appointed day, ‘Convocation Hall’ was predictably full of ‘pomp and circumstance’ with all the graduates, their families and faculty observing the traditions of the university. After the ceremony, Maddy found her parents in the crowded reception hall at a pre-arranged location.

“You guys made it!” Maddy enthused as she greeted both of her parents a hug. As she stepped back to look at them, a previously un-noticed lone figure quietly approached and stood just off to Maddy’s side.

(Ahem)

“Gabeee!” Maddy squealed as she whirled around to come face-to-face her fiancée.

“Why didn’t you tell me you got the time off, sweetheart?”

“I wanted to surprise you,” Gaby replied as she stood there holding her fiancée’s hand.

“That you did!” Maddy whispered she pulled her girlfriend into a tender kiss.

Since many of Maddy’s things had already found their way back home, John arranged with her to pick up the rest of her clothes from her residence before going to the hotel. She then quickly turned her attention back to Gaby.

“Remember we were talking a bit about who we’d like to see in our wedding party?”

”Yeah … you wanted Kat as your Maid of Honour an’ Bernie and Ally as bridesmaids...”

“Change of plans. Bern’s medical unit’s in Afghanistan...”

“That could be a problem ... couldn’t it?”

“It is ... and lately, they’ve been staying over there up to a year before coming home. Even her mum isn’t sure when she’ll be back.”

“Kinda rules her out, huh? I guess we should at least send her an invite. You got a Plan B?”

“Uh huh ... can you guys excuse Gabs and I for a sec?” Maddy asked her parents before pulling her aside to talk to her.

“Have you managed to narrow your choices down to three names, yet?” Maddy asked.

“Nope … at least not three. I know there’s Sis … an’ I thought about askin’ Kris an’ the others … but if I do … someone’s gonna be left out an’ I don’t wanna hurt anyone’s feelings.”

“That’s four.”

“You’re forgetting Em … that’s five!”

“So?”

“I assume there’s a point to all of this?”

“Ummm … yeah. I want Ally and Kat...” Maddy sheepishly replied. “...but I’ve also got three more close friends to chose from ... and like you ... I don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings.”

“In other words …five’s the magic number, then.”

“Ummm ... sweetheart?”

“So what’s the problem? We’ll each go with four bridesmaids an’ a Maid of Honour.”

“I thought we were trying to keep it at three?” Maddy quietly wondered.

“We were ... but these are our friends, Mad. Can you choose which ones to drop? I can’t...” Gaby softly reasoned.

“I can’t either…” Maddy whispered.

“Then it’s settled.” Gaby rewarded her fiancée with a gentle kiss.

“Thank you, sweetheart...” Maddy breathed. “Would you like to meet them?”

“Are they here?”

As the two girls re-joined John and Carol, Maddy asked the three of them to wait while she went off to get her friends, who were waiting nearby with their parents.

A few minutes later, she returned with three girls and their parents.

“Gaby … Mum … Dad … I’d like you to meet my three closest friends. If it wasn’t for them … I think I would’ve gone insane.”

“This is Ann Jordan … Brenda Helmsley and Cathy McGuire … and guys ... this is my fiancée … Gaby Bond … and my parents.”

Even though Gaby told Maddy that she wasn’t going to hide anymore, Maddy’s candid introductions caught both her and her parent’s slightly off guard.

“Very pleased to meet all of you,” Brenda responded while Ann and Cathy nodded heir agreement.

“Mum, Dad, Gaby ... may I present Mr. and Mrs. Jordan, Mr. and Mrs. Helmsley and Mr. and Mrs. McGuire. These two are my parent’s ... and this is my fiancée … Gaby Bond.”

In the four and a half years Maddy had been at UMIST, she had met her friend’s parents many times and they had come to unconditionally accept her orientation and like their daughter’s, they were pleased to finally meet Gaby.

“Gaby’s a professional cyclist with a German based team ... Team Apollinaris. Her mum was the 2003 Women’s World Champion while riding for the same team,” Maddy quickly added with pride.

Turning to Maddy, Gaby asked, “When did…”

“Oh, she didn’t have to say anything ... but it helped,” Cathy offered.

“The clues were there if you looked in her room … you know ... little things ... like your photo ... her diamond...” Ann joked.

“The clincher was when she told us she was in love with the most beautiful girl in the whole wide world...” Cathy added.

“You guys set a date?” Brenda asked.

“Maybe we should start thinking about it … right, sweetheart? I have graduated … and … you do have a good income,” Maddy hinted ever so sweetly.

Gaby just rolled her eyes, appeared to think for a second or two and then offered up a seemingly random date.

“I dunno … what about a year today? May 18, 2013 sounds as good as any … at least that should give us some time to put things together.”

“What day is that?” Maddy asked.

“Saturday...” Gaby murmured.

“You’re right ... it’s a Saturday,” Brenda confirmed as she pulled her Blackberry out of her bag & checked the date.

“You had that date in your mind all along ... didn’t you?” Maddy pointedly asked.

“That obvious, huh?” Gaby smirked.

Maddy glanced at her fiancée before turning back to her friends.

“While everyone’s here … I’ve got a question for you guys. I know it’s not your traditional ‘wedding’ … but Gaby and I are looking at getting married in a church in Bad Neuenahr, with our own bridesmaids an’ stuff. I’d really like it if the three of you would agree to be beside me… whaddya say?”

“Two brides?” Mrs. McGuire questioned.

Ann answered without hesitation, “I’d love to!”

“We wouldn’t miss it!” Cathy and Brenda both replied for each other.

“Even though it’s same-sex?”

“Maddy … we know that,” Brenda flatly voiced.

“As long as you’re okay with it,” Maddy questioned.

“I think we all just agreed,” Cathy softly pointed out.

“Thanks, guys!” Maddy hugged all three girls in turn.

“I’m hoping to take the summer off and accompany Gabs to her races … so except for the few days I’d be back home in Germany … I’ll be on the road. We can always keep in touch, though ... by email. I’ll always have my laptop and ‘net access ...plus if you really … really … have to get a hold of me … I’ll have my mobile.”

While the parents chatted, the five girls exchanged all their contact information, including home and mobile phone. As they parted company, they all promised that they’d keep in constant touch.

“Well, young lady ... ready go to your room and get the rest of your stuff?” John asked.

“Be right there.”

“Shouldn’t take too long, luv...” John told Carol. “No use you two coming. I’ll ring you before we leave, then meet you outside before heading back to the hotel.”

Later that afternoon, once she was settled in Gaby’s room, Maddy decided to place a call to the Morgan residence in Warsop, before they met her parents for tea.

“Hi, Sylvia? It’s Maddy Peters … is Em around? Thanks … hi … Em? … hold on.” Maddy then passed the phone to Gaby.

“Em? It’s Gaby! Mad and I are just going out the door to meet her parents … but are you gonna be in tomorrow? We’d like to stop by and see you … and Ally … if she’s around. GREAT! Around noon? Okay … see you then … bye.” Gaby was looking forward to meeting up with her friends again.

Following tea in the hotel restaurant, everyone decided to walk around and check out some of the nearby stores. After agreeing to meet back at the hotel, the four soon parted company with the girls leaving John at a W.H. Smith’s browsing through some books while they hit the shops.

The two girls were stopped in front of a window display of a bridal boutique, when Carol caught up with them.

“C’mon girls … let’s go in. Now that you’ve set the date, you’d better start looking! The earlier you get your gowns … the better your nerves,” Carol bubbled.

Almost as soon as they were in the store, a salesclerk descended on the three women and asked if they needed assistance. Carol politely explained both girls were beginning their search for a wedding dress, but she intentionally let the salesgirl labour under the belief that it was for a double wedding. The girls didn’t see any need to clarify matters.

When asked as to their tastes, Maddy deferred the question to Gaby, preferring to follow her lead.

“I’m not really sure, but I want it to be kept simple … nothing fancy,” Gaby offered after thinking about it for a brief moment.

Maddy readily agreed and they were shown a few dresses, but the few choices that fell under Gaby’s criteria proved not to be what they were looking for. After looking them over, the three women thanked the salesclerk for her trouble and left the store.

On their way back to the hotel after some serious ‘window shopping’, Gaby noticed a store that supplied Medieval and Renaissance clothing for re-enactment Faires.

“There!” She exclaimed. “That’s it!!”

Gaby pointed at a poster showing several styles of men and women’s period clothing.

“Why couldn’t something like these be our wedding dresses? … Mad?”

“I dunno … why?”

“Why not?”

When she saw Gaby was serious, Maddy took another look. “They do have a certain elegance about them … don’t they? Let’s go in!”

Soon the three found themselves in the store, browsing through the various styles of dresses. Although Carol initially favoured a more contemporary wedding dress, the longer she spent in the store and listened to the girls, the more she warmed to their ideas.

At first they looked at period wedding dresses, but in each case dismissed them for being much more extravagant than they wanted. Many of the gowns were more ornate and fancier than modern wedding dresses.

As they wandered through the store’s copy of their printed catalogue, both girls realised that the more ‘every-day’ dress of a Renaissance noble woman was in line with their vision. Since closing time was approaching, Gaby asked for a business card and a catalogue.

“Look Mad … they’re online! When we get ‘ome, we should do a search an’ see what other stores we find,” Gaby enthused once outside the store.

“I liked a few of the dresses in there,” Maddy replied.

“I did too … especially that one the girl said was for a ‘noblewoman’ … but it won’t hurt to see what else is out there.” Gaby suggested.

“Besides … we have time … don’t we Carol?”

“Some … but I wouldn’t leave it too long.”

“Mum?”

“I can’t see either of you walking down the aisle dressed like a ‘Tavern Wench’ … but I have to admit … there were a few dresses…” Carol replied to Maddy’s unasked question.

“Let me tell your dad we’re back and I’ll join you girls. I’d like to see what’s in that catalogue. You’ve got me curious, now!”

The more she thought about it, the more Gaby’s idea of looking at Renaissance fashion appealed to her. She had to admit that it was a much more romantic time with simpler tastes and that as far as she was concerned, summed the girls up rather nicely.

The next day, John leased a car and all four drove into Warsop for the day. While Maddy’s parents visited with friends, the two girls went around to Sylv’s to see Em and Ally.

“Both girls are out on the patio, kids. I’ll call Em if it gets busy in here but she’s free until one o’clock.” Sylvia motioned for Gaby and Maddy to go on through.

“Hi, Em … Ally,” Gaby greeted their hosts, while Maddy nodded to each of the girls.

“Hi guys,” Em replied in a subdued tone. “Gaby … l…”

She knew what Em was going to say, so she stopped Em by gently putting her finger up against her own lips.

“C’mon over here … let them talk alone,” Maddy whispered to Ally.

“Shhhhhhh … Em. Don’t keep trying to apologize. I’ve told you to forget it. It happened, okay? What’s done is done … an’ I really don’t want to hear any more about it.”

After softly admonishing her friend, Gaby quickly put her arms around Em and held her in a long hug. “Just drop it … okay?”

As Em closed her moist eyes, she quietly replied, “I’ll try ... but … I just feel so bad about everything.”

“I know … but forget it ... subject closed!” Gaby firmly but playfully stated. She then changed the subject as they joined the other two.

“Guys … Mad and I came here for another reason than wanting to hear Em try an’ apologize again,” Gaby playfully joked. “Em … you and I have a lot of history together ... don’t we?”

“We’ve been mates as long as I can remember,” Em quietly agreed.

“An’ you’re aware Mad an’ I are getting married ... right?” Em silently nodded.

“Okay…” Gaby paused for a second or three before continuing, “So ... I’m a bridesmaid short. You interested?”

“You mean it?” Em squealed. Her blank expression immediately changed as she gave her friend a tearful hug.

“You really are all girly … aren’t ya?” Gaby playfully whispered.

“Only doing wot comes naturally,” Em grinned.

Even before Em released her hold on Gaby, Maddy turned her attention towards Ally.

“Your turn ... please?”

“You really think I’d say ‘no’?” Ally quickly nodded her approval and gave Maddy a hug.

The rest of the visit was occupied with talk of the upcoming wedding and generally catching up on events in their lives. Before parting, Maddy reminded Ally and Em that they would rely on email while she accompanied Gaby on the World Cup circuit.

“Sorry to break this up … but … your one o’clock is here, Em,” Sylvia announced from the patio door. The four girls parted company, with more hugs all around.

“Gabs asked me to be a bridesmaid!” Em excitedly told her mum as she passed her in the door.

While she went off to her appointment, Sylvia touched Gaby’s arm as she started to walk past her on the way to the front door.

“You know you just made my daughter very happy, don’t you Gaby?”

“I couldn’t get married without having my oldest friend, there.”

“If you two have a few minutes … I got some time before my next appointment. How about sitting down and telling an ‘old busybody’ about this wedding?”

“Why not? Let Mum an’ Dad visit a little longer,” Maddy answered with a smile as she held onto Gaby’s arm.

Ally went to keep Em company while the girls sat down and talked with Sylvia. When her appointment arrived, the girls bade good-bye to everyone and then left to meet Maddy’s parents for the drive back to Manchester.

The next morning saw the four up early, packing and getting to the airport for their flight back to Germany. The flight arrived in Bonn just before noon and Dave was there to meet them, as planned. On the way back home, John filled him in on all the news from Warsop and their mutual friends.

Back in MayschoáŸ, Dave dropped the Peters off at their place but not before Maddy asked Gaby to stay with her for the afternoon.

“I’ll just leave your stuff in your room, then,” Dave mentioned as he prepared to drive off.

After Maddy was unpacked, they called Kat to check if she was free later and then after a quick bite, they walked over to the Pinger’s.

“I heard a rumour that you had graduated … so … you going to go for your Masters, now?” Kat was smiling when she met the girls at the door.

“Maybe ... I hadn’t really thought about it,” Maddy replied with a smile.
Mad and Kat traded a few university stories before settling down for the rest of the afternoon.

“You two thought any more about your wedding?” Kat innocently wondered.

“Funny you should ask...” Gaby replied with a mischievous grin.

Kat was quite enthralled about their idea for their wedding dresses and together they spent some time exploring online Renaissance clothing supply stores, starting with the one the girls visited in Manchester.

“At least you don’t have to worry about what to do mit your hair … looking at the girls in these pictures … long und straight seems to work best mit these dresses,” Kat observed.

“Mad and I were thinking of keeping ours like that.”

“Why not have everyone have their hair like that?” Kat asked. “Like I said … it seems to work best mit these dresses.”

“I love how this girl thinks...” Gaby joked as both girls looked at Kat with the same impish smile.

“Kat … I think Gabs mentioned that we’re both having our own bridal parties ... didn’t she?” Maddy hinted.

“Ja...”

“That means two sets of bridesmaids and two Maids of Honour, doesn’t it?” Maddy pushed.

“Ja...” Although Kat believed she had an idea what was coming, she let Maddy finish.

“My bridal party has one vacancy left ... I still need a Maid of Honour ... interested?” Maddy playfully asked.

“Say ‘yes’, Kat...” Gaby playfully urged.

“...Ja!” Kat excitedly squealed. “Danke ... vielen Dank ... both of you!”

“You realise that means no more thinking ‘bout cutting your hair every time you pass a hair salon...” Gaby playfully mentioned.

“I keep mein hair long … for you und Maddy!” Kat replied as she enthusiastically hugged both girls.

The sky was beginning to darken and the first drops were falling as the girls left the Pinger’s and quickly walked back to the Bond’s.

“I’ll get the keys and drive you home,” Gaby suggested when they arrived back at the house.

When she returned after taking Maddy home, she sat down with her mum in the lounge and talked about the weekend. While the talk inevitably turned to the early progress in the wedding planning, Jules walked into the room.

“Mad’s got her attendants all lined up. Kat’s gonna be her Maid of Honour. Ally an’ three friends from UMIST will be her bridesmaids.”
“You and Maddy now going with five each, are you?”

“Neither of us could decide who to drop...” Gaby quietly acknowledged.

“How about you?” Jenny asked.

“I’ve only asked Em so far. I still have to ask Kris an’ the others.”

“You got a Maid of Honour?” Jules hinted.

“Uh huh … why?” Gaby cheerfully stated, without thinking.

Soon after the words left her mouth, she noticed her sister starting to get visibly upset and realised what she had said. With Jenny looking on, Gaby put her arm around her sister’s shoulder in an effort to comfort her.

“I’m your sister … you never asked me... (sniff)” Tears started to run down Jules’ cheek.

“I’m sorry, sis … but … sisters are always the Maid of Honour. I just assumed…” Gaby quietly told her, as she tightly hugged Jules.

“You never asked.”

“Sorry. I didn’t think I had to … sorry.” Gaby continued hugging Jules while quietly talking to her.

“Sis ... for all the rough times an’ … even the good times we’ve had … you always … always … stood by me ... an’ there’s no reason that should change ... nor do I want it to. I really want you to be my Maid of Honour. Will ya do it?”

“Yes... (sniff)“ Jules softly replied.

A short time later, Jenny reminded Jules that Heinrich would be by early the next morning to take her into Bonn for her interview. With that, everybody called in a day.

“Okay, ladies … shall we go for a little early morning ride to wake up?” The next morning, George exited the team clubhouse and was crossing the car park when he addressed the assembled team.

As they mounted their bikes, the four newest members of Team Apollinaris were all cynically thinking what George meant by a ‘little ride’ and they couldn’t help but quietly laugh among themselves. Still, they knew that with the upcoming 2012 UCI* World Cup schedule, they couldn’t let up on their training.

Four hours later, a weary bunch of women rode into the car park of the Apollinaris clubhouse. George was well pleased with the workout and he didn’t hesitate to pass his feelings onto the ladies.

“Go cool down und I’ll have a lunch brought around for you. We’ll all get together later … around two? Nein … make it three, ja?” George called out as he retired to his office.

‘Cooling down’ is what all the girls looked forward to, for it meant a dip in the pool, a sauna and a massage, not necessarily in that order.

Later in the sauna, Gaby cornered her three friends.

“Guys … this is the first chance since the weekend that I’ve had to talk with you ... together.” Gaby was quite serious when she approached her friends.

“What’sup?” Kristen wondered.

“My wedding,” Gaby volunteered.

‘Oooo ... tell us!” Judith pressed.

“Okay ... now that Mad’s officially graduated, we’ve actually set a date and started to plan things. We decided we’re having two brides an’ two bridal parties. Mad’s got all her attendants ... but I’m short three bridesmaids ... well?”

Judith glanced at the other two before enthusiastically answering for them all.

“You serious? You know we would! ... Danke Gabi.”

“Just one more thing … Mad an’ I want you to keep your hair long ... at least like you have it now.”

“Interestin’ request,” Kristen voiced.

“We’ve decided we’d do something a tad different ... all of our dresses are right out of the Renaissance ... and we’d kinda like everyone to wear their hair long an’ straight,” Gaby explained.

“Where are you finding those dresses?” Nina wondered.

“Mad an’ I found several stores that supply clothes for Renaissance re-enactment groups ... we just have to choose one.”

“Kew-el!” Kristin enthused. “I guess that makes us your Ladies-in-waiting?”

“I promise you … you’ll be well treated. You’ll only be required to curtsey an’ address me as m’lady when in public,” Gaby dryly intoned.

“When’s the date?” Judith inquired.

“Next year … May 18th … if our schedule allows!” Gaby responded.
She then proceeded to let the girls know what she and Maddy had already discussed.

“We’re all getting our dresses at the same place, then?” Kristen asked.

“That’s the idea. So far, it looks like it’ll be from a place in Manchester ... but let Mad an’ I worry ‘bout that for now, okay? Maybe we can find some way to lessen the number of times we hafta fly back an’ forth.”

Following the team meeting later that afternoon, Gaby approached George and asked if she could have a moment.

“And how ist die Hochzeit coming along? It’s all your Mama seems to talk about!” George joked as the two were walking back to his office.

“Actually … that’s what I wanted to talk to you about.”

“Oh? How may I help?” George asked as they entered his office.

“Two things really … I was wonderin’ if you or Mike could use some extra help on the remaining World Cup Tour?”

“Like Maddy?”

“Uh huh ... it’d be so much easier to plan things if we’re together, rather than relying on phone and email. She helped Hans on the 2008 Junior World Cup … so I thought that maybe she could work with Mike?” Gaby asked.

“We’ll still be using the Internet to get ideas and email to keep in touch with everyone … but for some things ... you really need face-to-face interaction.”

While George listened, he took his seat behind his large desk.

“Kat’s already told me she won’t be able to help Mike this year,” she hurriedly added, as he looked at her.

“Ja … that ist unfortunate … she was gut.” Gaby remained silent, nervously biting her lower lip while George pondered her request.

After some minutes, he finally looked up at her.

“Ja. We could always use another body … but … I think not mit Mike. I … ja … I haff something else in mind. Haff her call me tonight at home und we’ll set things up. Now what was the other matter?”

“Is there any way I could get a team schedule for the rest of the year? That’d really help us plan the times when we could actually get together with everyone, like … getting our dresses an’ stuff.”

Gaby looked at George, hoping he’d appreciate the need for her request.

She added, “We’d probably need that schedule to go into next year or at least get a new one in the New Year.”

“You haff a date then?” George thoughtfully asked.

“We’re tentatively looking at May 18th … assuming that next year’s World Cup has a break in the schedule like it does this year,” Gaby replied.

“I’m sure the break will be there but I’ll try to confirm the timing with the UCI, for you. As for the schedule … we’ll have to work on that one and see what we can come up with … ja?”

Gaby thanked George and started to leave to meet her parents and go home but as she moved to get up, George casually held up his hand up, indicating that he wanted her to stay.

“Bitte?” George softly asked. “I’d like to talk mit you a bit more … if I may. It’ll only take a couple of minutes.” Gaby quickly searched her mind for something she did or didn’t do.

“Now, I understand from talking to your parents … that you und Maddy chose to pay for your own wedding … ist that correct?”

“We just felt our parents shouldn’t have to pay for our ideas … they have enough to worry about,” Gaby replied.

“I know all about your ‘ideas’ from your Mama, Gabi. I also know that repeatedly travelling between here und a certain city in England ist a big concern for the both of you ... ja?”

“A very big concern,” Gaby agreed. “We want to get married in Bad Neuenahr … but half of our wedding party’s back in England … an’ it’s possible we may be getting our dresses from a shop in Manchester ... so, if we do … there’ll be a lot of back an’ forth travel.”

I know … that’s why I decided to speak mit der CEO at corporate Apollinaris earlier today.” Gaby stared at George as he pushed his chair back from his desk.

“Both you und your Mama have done a lot for this team und Apollinaris would like to give you und Maddy a wedding gift to help mit your travels … you use of one of their planes to fly you und your friends between Germany und England when you need to. They vill even fly the British girls back home, after your wedding.”

George noticed the odd tear rolling down Gaby’s cheeks as she walked around his desk and gave Maria’s ‘teddy bear’ a big hug.

“Vielen Dank!” Gaby tearfully whispered. “You have no idea what this means to us...”

“Ja ... I do. You just told me...” George quietly answered.

Looking up, he saw Jenny smiling in the doorway and somehow he managed to flash a weak smile to her as he returned Gaby’s hug.

“Your Mama’s waiting … you go mit her, now. I’ll see you tomorrow … ja?”

“Ja … und Dank wieder, George…” Gaby softly replied as she turned to leave his office.
“How’d the interview go, sis?” Gaby later asked when she arrived home and saw Jules in the kitchen.

“I think it went okay, but I’ll have to wait until next week before they make their minds up.”

“Hi, luv. We got our first wedding gift today,” Gaby nonchalantly stated when Maddy came over later that evening.

“From who?” Maddy excitedly wondered.

“Apollinaris,” Gaby coyly replied.

“Well ... what is it?” Maddy was starting to get frustrated with her fiancée’s playful evasiveness.

“They’ve given us the use of one of their planes to fly between here and Manchester, when we need it. George said that even includes taking Em and the others back after the wedding!”

“Wow! That saves us a ton of money, doesn’t it?” Maddy replied as she sat down after hearing the news. “I’ll definitely have to thank George when I see him!”

They made sure they emailed Em and all of Maddy’s bridesmaids informing them of the free travel as well as their unusual request for the long hair.

Later in the evening, they were joined by both of their mums and Jules around the kitchen table for a tea and what had become, a semi-weekly wedding update.

“Because we’re gonna have a bit of a Renaissance-look to the wedding party with the dresses … Mad and I thought it would look nice if everyone lets their hair grow out … like the three of us (pointing to Maddy, Jules and herself) … including you two,” Gaby mentioned to both mothers.

“Us?” Carol wondered. “We’re not in the wedding party.”

“Yes … and … no,” Maddy replied. “Gaby and I thought it’d be nice if both parents walked each of us up the aisle.”

“We figured since the dads will be in a suit … you two could just wear a gown that would kinda fit in with the rest of us,” Gaby added.
“An’ if you wore your hair like us…”

“I think that’s a lovely idea, girls!” Jenny enthused. “I know your father’s going to like it. As I recall … he was rather disappointed when I first got my hair chopped off for riding.”

“It’s been ages since I had hair like you two!” Carol eagerly agreed to their daughter’s request as she ran her fingers through her own shoulder-length hair. “Although I don’t know how much it’ll grow by the time of your wedding.”

“It’s not too early to think about invitations, you know...” Jenny advised.

“If you girls haven’t already started …I’d suggest you draw up a guest list. The earlier you get them out, the better … particularly if they’re going to have to make any travel plans.”

Letting the girls think about it for a few seconds, she added, “Carol and I could probably add a few names. Why don’t you two come up with your list and we’ll come up with our own? Once we’re done … we’ll compare notes and put together a final list.”

“Sounds good,” both girls agreed.

“Oh! Before I forget … you’re to call George tonight. Mad. Mum’s got his number.”

“He’s working tonight?” Jenny questioned.

“No ... he wanted Mad to call ‘im at ‘ome.”

“Okay. Here you go, dear … use the phone in the lounge … it’s quieter,” Jenny mentioned as she wrote out George’s number and slid it over to Maddy.

A few minutes later, she came back into the kitchen where the others were still sat at the table.

“That didn’t take long,” Carol casually mentioned.

“He wants to see me first thing, tomorrow.”

“In that case, maybe it might be easier if we pick you up … say about seven-thirty?”
“Sounds good!”

Since Carol was staying a while longer, Gaby drove Maddy home after they reluctantly agreed to call it a night.

“Morgen, Liebling … you look pretty,” Gaby greeted her fiancée the following morning as she slid into the backseat, beside her.

“Morgen,” cooed Maddy.

“You’re only seeing George,” Gaby mentioned as she inspected Maddy’s outfit.

“An’ what makes you think I wore this for him?” Mad asked in a sexy voice, as she put her hand behind Gaby’s head and leaned in for a kiss.

Then with a pout and her puppy-dog eyes, she added, “Besides … if I get the job … it might be the last time you see me in a skirt for quite some time.”

Maddy agreed to stay at the Apollinaris facility following her interview with George and meet Gaby for lunch. Jenny told her someone would run her back home when she was ready.

When they pulled into the car park, Gaby was going to walk Maddy to George’s office but plans changed when they met him in the parking lot.

“Morgen, George,” both girls chorused. When he turned to return the greeting, they both asked him to convey their thanks to the sponsor for their wedding gift.

“Good luck, Mad … see you at lunch!”

After Gaby gave her a quick peck on the cheek, she hurried off to join the rest of the team preparing for their morning training ride.

“I got it! Starting next Monday. I’ll be working with George keeping the stats and stuff while the team’s on the road … so I’ll be with you when the team leaves for Montreal on the 23rd!” Maddy later exclaimed as she joined Gaby for lunch.

“In fact, you’ll be stuck with me every day until the tour is over, early September,” Maddy smugly stated. Then she very quickly added with a seductive little pout, “Well … as far as this job is concerned, anyway.”

The mood quickly changed, as she excitedly added in a hushed voice.

“Here’s the best news! George gave me the schedule you asked for … PLUS the World Cup Tour schedule. Notice what’s listed for 23rd of June?” Maddy handed a copy of the schedule to Gaby.

“Your Mum know?” Maddy excitedly continued.

“I expect she does,” Gaby looked up at Maddy and flatly replied.

“Here’s the ‘kicker’. Does she know George wants you to ride the ‘Fem’?” Maddy leaned over towards Gaby and quietly asked.

“He told me he’ll announce the rest of the schedule and the selected cyclists for each race at this afternoon’s team meeting … an’ he wants me there as well as both your ‘rents. Sweetheart … you okay?”

“Yeah. I’d kinda like to see Mum’s face when she’s told,” Gaby solemnly replied as the realization dawned on her.

“You know … ever since she won the Tour de Feminine and both Jules and I shared the podium with her for the PR shots … I’ve dreamed of riding in the ‘Fem with her an’ we’d share the podium as teammates.” (sigh)

“Technically … you’re still teammates. So it may happen yet,” Maddy whispered.

Gaby’s training between races and her individual performance in races became if anything, more aggressive for the remainder of the 2012 World Cup series. She left Montreal with a fourth place finish and a firm hold on second place in the overall World Cup standings.

It was only when the team was enroute to France, Gaby learned that her parents would be there to see her ride every stage of the race. The Apollinaris organization had decided to bring the participants in their 2012 youth program along, to observe the “Tour” first-hand.

Her wish had kind of come true. Jenny ‘rode’ every kilometer with her daughter in spirit and re-lived the day’s ride with her, in the evenings!

Jenny thought it ironic that her involvement with the youth program during the race season meant she’d never been able to take time-off to see Gaby race as a pro. Now that the Apollinaris youth program was viewing the ‘tour’, she had the chance.

Riding in her first ‘Fem’, Gaby captured two of the five stages, including the Time Trials. She placed fifth in the last stage of the race but came in overall third in the ‘Tour de Feminine’ with her accumulated points and won the ‘Best Young Rider’ jersey.

In the first part of August, Gaby proudly rode for Great Britain in the 2012 Olympics. In a very close finish over a 125 kilometre course that wound around the Regent Park site, she managed to win a silver medal behind her teammate Nicole Cooke, by less than a wheel-length. Katherine Bates of Australia came a distant third.

In all the 2012 World Cup series, Gaby had been on the final podium a total of six times and with the ‘Tour de Berne’ and the ‘Holland Ladies Tour’, those podium appearances were for first place. She’d managed to convincingly keep her place in the GC and ended the season second overall in the World Cup standings as the youngest cyclist in the top 10!

She also got her podium wish, in a round-about way.

Like in Paris, back when Jenny won the ‘Fem’, the three Bond women shared the podium for the ‘Holland Ladies Tour’. This time, it was Jenny and Jules who flew in for the last stage and ended up posing with Gaby. Jenny was simply beside herself with pride in her daughter!

Team Apollinaris was very pleased with their newest ‘Bond girl’, that year. George finished the season believing he had found the perfect all around combination with the addition of Gaby, Kristen, Judith and Nina to the pro team. He also had his Porsche — Bond duo back, just like he always thought he would.

~~~~

*UCI — Union Cycliste Internationale: based in France, the UCI is the governing body for the sport of cycling, covering both amateur and professional levels.
 
 
Comments are Greatly Appreciated!

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To Be Continued...
 

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Photo Credit: Licensed royalty free. Provided by PD Photo.org .

 

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Chapter 7
 

Seven-and-a-half months, but who’s counting…

(Ting-a-ling)

The door chimes sounded as Jenny and the other thirteen ladies of the wedding party stepped into the Ye Ol’ Faire, the Renaissance-clothing store that the girls had previously visited on the occasion of Maddy’s graduation.

“Ahhh … heat!” Ann exclaimed. Although early October, Manchester and the surrounding area was experiencing some relatively cool weather for the region.

“May I help you ladies?” A middle-aged gentleman inquired as he approached Jenny.

With Carol looking on, Jenny greeted the gentleman and pointed at Maddy and Gaby.

“We’re the Bond-Peters wedding party … I believe you set up an appointment with our daughters to …”

“Ah yes! My wife and I have been expecting you, Oh! … I’m sorry. I’m Jay and this is Linda,” Jay said pointing to his wife.

“I’m Jenny Bond and this is Carol Peters … and this one’s mine.” Jenny put her hand on Gaby’s shoulder. “This is Gaby.”

“And Maddy is mine,” Carol added while touching Maddy’s hand.

“You kids can do your own introductions,” Jenny playfully suggested.

“Okay. This is my sister and Maid of Honour … Jules … an’ my bridesmaids … Mfawny … Judith … Nina an’ Kristen.”

“This is my Maid of Honour … Katia … and my bridesmaids … Alison … Brenda … Ann and Cathy,” Maddy proudly announced soon as Gaby finished her introductions.

“Very nice to meet all of you,” Linda replied.

“When Gaby and Maddy first emailed me and explained their idea, Jay and I were quite intrigued. Amber, our resident seamstress, is already in the back waiting with the dresses you already picked out online and some refreshments.”

“Well, then … on that note, I’ll leave you ladies in my wife’s capable hands. Very nice to meet all of you,” Jay mentioned as he left to attend to another matter.

Linda then motioned for the ladies to go through to the fitting area in the back of the store. The plan was to fit one bridal party at a time and since Gaby’s dress was the first one Linda put her hands on, they started with her bridal party.

“I must say … this has to be the single largest wedding party we’ve dealt with.”

As she brought Gaby her dress, Maddy grabbed hold of her fiancée’s arm. “It’s beautiful!” Gaby exclaimed.

It was love at first sight for Gaby. The off-white velvet dress was of a sleeve-less design with a boned re-enforced front for tight lacing of the low bodice and ties on the shoulder, ending in a full skirt.

“I’d like to point out a couple of things that you may find … well … different from what you’re used to,” Linda commented.

“These fashions were worn long before the bra was invented and are not intended to be worn with said bra. I assure you, though ... the laced bodices will give you all the support you need!” Linda explained with a knowing smile.

“All the dresses of the Renaissance period are worn with this ... a chemise. You’ll also notice a distinct lack of zippers or elastic … just laces.”

When Gaby inspected hers, she noticed the chemise was a loose fitting, knee-length cotton garment with drawstrings around each wrist and the neck. To her it looked like a very plain white cotton nightdress.

“I should point out Gaby, that your chemise has detachable sleeves and depending how you tie the drawstring at the neck … an adjustable neckline.”

“Hmmm … does Maddy’s?”

“No. Her sleeves aren’t detachable ... but the neckline is adjustable ... like yours.”

“I’ll be keeping the sleeves, then.” Linda acknowledged Gaby’s comment with a nod of her head.

“Although it’s not historically accurate for the sixteenth century, some of our ‘noblewomen’ who wear this style of dress, cheat and wear a crinoline under the chemise just to give a little better shape to the skirt. We have some over there, if you’d like to see what it’ll look like.”

“I think I would … thank you.”

“Right, then … follow me and we’ll get you sorted.”

Linda gathered up Gaby’s dress and chemise. She also went over to another rack and selected a crinoline, then waited for her to join her. When Gaby started to follow Linda back to a change room, she began to remove her ‘feather’ from her hair.

“Don’t you dare!” Maddy called out in an uncompromising voice.

“You serious?” Gaby questioned as she looked at Maddy.

“I want to see what it looks like … please?” A quick scan of the girl’s faces told Gaby that the others agreed.

(sigh) “Looks like I’m out voted … again,” Gaby admitted.

“Okay … but I’ll have to take it out to get changed. I promise that I’ll put it back in before I come out … fair ‘nuff?” Hearing no objections, she then turned for the change room.

“Gaby! Your shoes!” Jules stepped forward and handed her sister a bag with her white dress pumps, before letting her continue back to the change rooms. “I don’t think trainers go well with that dress,” Jules sarcastically added.

“Thanks!”

Sometime later, she emerged and walked out to present herself to her gathered friends and family. Linda offered her hand to steady Gaby as she stepped up onto a small round stage. Amber quickly swooped in to mark a few small alterations before standing back.

An approving smile swept across Maddy’s face when she saw that her fiancée chose to wear her chemise off-the-shoulder and show a hint of cleavage.

“Whaddya think Mad?” Jules quietly asked as Gaby made her appearance.

“She’s gorgeous!” Maddy sighed.

“I meant about the ‘feather’!” Jules hissed.

“That’s not what you asked!” Maddy discretely shot back.

“Sweetheart … I think your ‘feather’ really looks good with the dress. You really should keep it.”

“Ya think?” A quick poll of the others quickly showed Gaby she had been out voted, again.

“There’s a definite trend here…”

“I dunno…”

“Well … look for yourself, then!” Kristen urged.

Once Amber was finished, Gaby and Linda returned to the change room, but not before she was directed to a 3-way full-length mirror. As she caught sight of her reflection, a hint of a smile began to form.

“Just like in Drew’s dream…”

In the meantime, Amber had retrieved one of their ‘Fair Maiden’ style dresses and a plain ‘Celtic Chemise’ from the rack.

Reading the tag, she called out, “Jules.” The two women then went off to one of the change rooms.

A short time later, Gaby had changed back to her street clothes and returned to the others. She was helping herself to a tea and a biscuit as Linda came back out and retrieved another dress and chemise.

“Mfawny,” Linda called out as she read the identifying tag on the dress. After Em put down her tea and picked up her dress pumps, she followed her to a change room.

When Jules emerged with Amber, her ‘baby’ sister gave her a typical ‘wolf whistle’, much to the amusement of the others.

“I’ll take that as a compliment,” Jules sweetly answered back.

“Whaddya think, sis?” Gaby asked.

‘It’ll take a bit getting used to these sleeves … but I really like it!” Jules replied as she held her arms out straight letting the ‘drop sleeves’ of the chemise hang to their full extent.

Unlike Gaby, Jules wore a floor-length, white cotton chemise with a square neckline that tied at the shoulder. Over that she wore a dark blue sleeve-less ‘dress’ with decorative trim on the edges of the low bodice.

As Jules pointed out, all these ‘dresses’, except Gaby’s, were more like a floor-length vest, entirely opened at the front and only joined by the lacing at the bodice.

Carefully eyeing Jules’ dress, Amber marked of a couple of minor alterations and then waited until Linda returned with Em.

When Linda took Jules’ back to get changed, Amber remained out front and assisted Em up onto the small stage where she proceeded to mark off any required alterations.

All of Gaby’s bridesmaids wore the same ‘Fair Maiden’ dress paired with the same ‘Celtic Chemise’ as Jules, except where she had a blue dress, the bridesmaids had red. The fitting of the remainder of her bridal party went quickly.

While Amber was finishing up with Judith, Linda took charge of Maddy and led her off to a change room.

“Would you like to try a crinoline as well, Maddy?”

“Yes, please...”

Later, all eyes were on her as she walked out and stepped up onto the small stage.

“Wow!” Gaby quietly enthused to Jules.

“You do have a way with words, sis…” Jules playfully whispered.

Her knee-length chemise had full drop sleeves but unlike the one Jules wore, her ‘Celtic’ style was a bit more ornate in that it had a drawstring at the wrists and an embroidered strip with the intricate ‘Celtic knot’ design running along the top of each arm from the wrist to the shoulders. It also had a drawstring neckline, which allowed a choice of different neckline styles to be worn.

Like Gaby, she elected to show some cleavage by wearing her chemise with a low, scooped neckline.

Her ‘Celtic Maiden’ dress was a similar style to the ‘floor-length ’vest‘, that Jules would wear, but with ties at the shoulders as well as the front bodice. The lacing on her bodice was a simpler pattern compared to that on Jules’ dress, plus the edging on both sides of the bodice along the lacing had a wide embroidered strip of the same ‘Celtic knot’ design that was on the sleeves of the chemise.

While her ‘heavy’ cotton dress was ivory, the chemise and floor-length cotton petticoate* were white, providing a subtle contrast.

“Mad? You realise your ring an’ the embroidery match?” Gaby pointed out.

“What can I say?” Maddy innocently replied.

The fitting of the rest of her bridal party went quickly, with each one also wearing an identical ‘Celtic Maiden’ style of dress, petticoate and chemise that Maddy wore, only in different colour combinations.

As Maid of Honour, Kat wore a rouge dress with a burgundy bodice, over a marine blue petticoate and the bridesmaids each wore dresses of hunter green over a burgundy petticoate.

As with the other girls in Maddy’s bridal party, Kat wore her chemise with a more modest neckline so as not to draw attention from either of the brides.

“That’s it? … Amber?”

“Things worked out perfectly for a couple of the shorter girls here. Their dresses were too long, but with their heels, they fit beautifully … as for the others … give me two weeks to let out the hem on their dresses.”

Seeing one or two worried faces, Amber sought to reassure the girls by showing them the hem of one of the dresses.

“Don’t worry. Even with them being ready-to-wear, there’s still plenty of material …see?” Kristen and Judith both let out a collective sigh of relief.

“It’ll depend on my schedule an’ that of the others … as to when we can come in again … but let’s leave it at two weeks and I’ll email you in the next few days with a final date. Is that okay, Linda?”

“That’ll be fine.”

Later, when everyone was gathered on the sidewalk outside the shoppe, Carol thoughtfully asked, “Anyone fancy a bite to eat?”

“There’s a good Italian place very near here,” Cathy volunteered.

Hearing no protests, Jenny handed down the verdict.

“Italian, it is … and since you had the idea, Cathy … you can lead the way.”

After a short walk, the fourteen ladies soon found themselves seated in an upscale Italian eatery, tucked away on a quiet side street away from the city traffic. Having ordered, the table talk among them naturally turned to the wedding.

“How’s the guest list coming, girls?” Jenny inquired.

“We’re done. It’s not large … but we’re done,” Gaby replied.

“When we get back home … Carol and I’ll sit down with both of you. We’ll get this list sorted so you can get the invitations sent out. Any thoughts on where they’ll stay? You should really reserve the rooms … the earlier, the better.”

“The Steigenberger Bad Neuenahr isn’t too shabby,” Gaby suggested.

“Nice choice,” agreed Kat.

“I should think that place could probably handle both the reception and the guest’s rooms,” Carol added.

“If you want … I’ll phone the hotel next week and set up an appointment so we can go see what packages they can offer.”

“Thanks, Mum…” Maddy quietly replied.

“If you girls do decide to book anything … be sure to ask for the maximum number of rooms according to the list. That way you’ll have the rooms reserved,” Jenny advised.

“Shouldn’t we wait for the replies?” Maddy asked.

“You can always free up some rooms once the RSVP’s come in,” Carol pointed out.

While they were waiting for their food to arrive, Gaby leaned forward on her elbows and looking around the table at the others, she asked a simple question.

“Do you guys really think my ‘feather’ looks okay with the dress?”

“Yes!” Several voices chorused.

“It just seems that everyone is always trying to get me to wear it...”

“Und why not Gabi? It looks beautiful on you … und you saw how it looked mit your dress,” Kat observed. “I think you should really consider wearing everything.”

“Everything?” Gaby echoed.

“Der ‘full Indian’,” confirmed Kat.

Looking directly across the table at Maddy and Kat, Gaby softly asked, “You two really think ‘that’ would look okay with my dress?”

“Yes!” Maddy confidently offered as Kat nodded her agreement.

Pausing to think for a moment, Gaby ventured, “How ‘bout with both of our dresses?”

Before they could answer, Jenny inquired, “What exactly does Kat mean by … the ‘full Indian’?”

“It’s how she describes all the stuff I got from Jessica … but in this case I think she’s only talking about my Nighthawk feather, the feather earrings and my beaded choker … right, Kat?” Looking at Gaby, she nodded her agreement.

Jenny and Carol thought about it for a brief moment and then Jenny spoke up.

“Too bad you didn’t have your choker with you at the fitting, then we could’ve seen how it looks with your dress … but you know what? I think Kat’s on to something.”

“What’re you thinking about, sweetheart?” Maddy could see that Gaby had a far-away look in her eyes.

“I’m not sure … but … maybe Kat does have something. I just got to think about this a bit more,” Gaby thoughtfully replied.

“If you guys are watching the Euros … I’ve a suggestion that could save a few and be a lot of fun!” Kristen piped up.

“We look rich? Out with your idea, girl...” Maddy voiced.

“Instead of reserving hotel rooms for your friends here, for a few days … why don’t we put them up? Each of us could host one girl. Saves you guys money and it might be fun … well?”

“I’m all for saving money,” Gaby cheerfully commented.

“Sounds great … so far,” Carol offered. “What do the rest of you think?” A quick scan around the table showed unanimous agreement with the idea.

“Who gets who?” Gaby asked.

“I’ll take Ann if she wants,” Kristen offered. “I’ve an extra room.”

“Und Brenda can stay at my place … I haff room also,” Nina allowed.

“Cathy can stay mit me … no problem!” Judith volunteered.

“I think Ally can stay with us … can’t she Mum?” Maddy asked.

“Of course.”

“Em? Looks like you’re stuck with me,” Gaby voiced.

“I’d like that Gabs … thanks.”

“Looks like you lucked out, Kat!” Maddy observed.

“That’s okay. As Maids of Honour, Kat and Jules will be too busy!” Jenny jokingly observed.

After dinner, they all said their good-byes and checked that everybody still had everyone’s contact information. Later, Em and Ally drove back to Warsop. Maddy’s friends went off to their respective homes and the ‘German contingent’ went back to their hotel.

“Ya gonna tell me what you were thinking back there?” Maddy cooed, when she and Gaby were alone, cuddling on the couch back in Jenny’s room.

“I think we could use a holiday … don’t you?” Gaby questioned.

“Gabs! We’re planning our wedding … an’ you’re thinking of a holiday?” a disbelieving Maddy asked. “An’ just where would we go?”

“Toronto?” Gaby mischievously suggested.

“Hmmmm … if it’s just the two of us … I’m listening,” Maddy seductively replied as she ran her fingers through Gaby’s hair.

“Well … maybe more of a ‘working’ holiday. We need a few things for my idea to work,” Gaby mused as she snuggled closer to Maddy.

“Thinking of going back to the Trading Post … are we?” Maddy quietly asked.

“You know me pretty well, wife…” Gaby playfully replied.

“Not your wife yet ... but I like your thinking,” Maddy seductively suggested.

“Well?” Gaby expectantly voiced.

“You’ve got an idea … haven’t you!” Maddy probed.

“If I have to wear Jessica’s stuff, I think it only proper you do too … but … why stop there? Why not the entire wedding party?”

Without waiting for Maddy to respond, Gaby began laying out her idea.

“Picture this … everyone wearing some aboriginal jewellery. The two of us would wear everything … but we’ll get different decorative shields for the Hawk feather … plus different style earrings and chokers,” Gaby enthusiastically explained.

“Hmmm … sounds good so far,” Maddy agreed. “What about the others?”

“Jules and Kat would wear the same earrings an’ choker that we’d be wearing … an’ our bridesmaids would wear the same earrings we’re wearing. The jewellery would separate our bridal parties … but because we’re all wearing aboriginal stuff ... it would kinda unite the entire wedding party. What’d ya think?”

“I love it ... but ... what about our mums?” Maddy wondered. “You might want to identify them with each of us.”

“Yer right! Well ... ‘ow ‘bout if they wear the same jewellery as Jules an’ Kat?” Gaby suggested.

“That works. Do you think we should tell ‘em or just let it be a surprise?” Maddy softly asked.

“It might be a good idea to tell them … ‘specially since it looks like we’d hafta go when the team breaks for Christmas,” Gaby reluctantly suggested.

Oh … Christmas, huh?” Maddy sighed.

“Unless George can let me go earlier,” Gaby quietly replied.

“I thought the season is over … no races,” Maddy reasoned.

“Just because we don’t have any races doesn’t mean we’re sitting around. George’s got the team down for a lot of personal appearances in the next few weeks,” Gaby explained.

“Oh … okay,” Maddy replied dismissively.

“Now ... which earrings would you like to wear … the ‘dream-catchers’ or ‘the single feather’?” Gaby softly asked.

“You’re always seen with the ‘feather’ earrings, so I’ll take the ‘dream-catchers’. No use confusing people now,” Maddy softly replied.

“Just thought I’d ask. So? Whaddya think?” Gaby wondered.

“We’re going to Toronto!” Maddy squealed as she threw her arms around Gaby.

“We’ll have to fly commercial this time, though. George mentioned the gift of free air travel applied only between England and Germany,” Gaby cautioned.

“I knew it!” Maddy disappointedly replied as a concerned look crossed her face.

“Hey! I figure with what we’ve saved between Apollinaris’ wedding gift and Kris’ little idea for cutting hotel bills … we can afford it.”

Gaby quietly reassured her fiancée as she leaned over to kiss her on the lips, while Maddy’s hand unconsciously caressed her future wife’s breast.

“Oi!” Jenny’s voice suddenly rang out. Both girls jumped, as neither one had heard their mother’s come into the room when she used her room pass.

“We’re just talking about the wedding!” Gaby quickly volunteered.

“We can see you two were deep in discussion,” Jenny jokingly replied.

“We were!” Gaby half-heartedly protested. ”Listen …‘member Kat’s idea with the jewellery at dinner? We’ve done some thinking an’ kind of taken that a step further.”

The two girls spent the next little while telling their mother’s their plans for the wedding parties and the need for the transatlantic flight.

“We figured we’d go for a couple of days an’ be back before Christmas … you said George’s always gave two weeks to allow for travel an’ all.”

“You just make sure it’s okay with George before you go running off,” Jenny said as she walked over and hugged her daughter.

“I will.”

Both Carol and Jenny took a chair and sat opposite the girls.

“We did our own thinking and came up with our own idea for the holidays. What do you two think about your grandmothers spending Christmas with us in MayschoáŸ? We’ve already talked to your fathers and they love the idea!”

“One small problem, Mum … Gran doesn’t know about these.” Gaby pointed to her diamond.

“Ummm … actually ... she does. She just hasn’t seen them yet,” Jenny sheepishly corrected.

“You ... didn’t tell me. What did she say?”

“Just that she’ll talk to you.”

“Oh,” Gaby’s soft tone of voice left no doubt that she wasn’t looking forward to that talk.

“Darling … your Gran loves you and she knows how you feel about Maddy. Now don’t worry.”

“It took a while for her to come around … but your Gran also knows,” Carol mentioned to Maddy in a subdued tone.

“It’s too late to call now … but tomorrow Carol and I’ll invite your grandmothers and if you’d like ... speak to them about your engagement, again… okay?”

Jenny then looked at Gaby and added, “But now … Carol and I want to get to bed. So say ‘gute Nacht’ girls … and let them go to their own room.”

“Gute Nacht, Liebling,” Gaby whispered as she once again leaned over to kiss Maddy, before she and her mum left for the night.

The next morning the nine women met for an early breakfast then after checking out of their rooms, caught the hotel’s shuttle bus to the airport and had the driver take them over to the General Aviation complex and the FlightLinks terminal. As soon as their luggage was stowed and they were on board, the plane departed for Bonn.

Upon their arrival back in Germany, Mike and Dave met the ladies with the teams’ mini-bus at the Apollinaris corporate hanger.

“Good weekend, dear?” Dave asked Jenny.

“Very … but remind me to call Mum once we get home?” Jenny replied.

Soon after Jenny arrived at work on Monday, George walked up the hall and knocked on the doorframe of her office.

As she looked up, he asked, “Jenny? Ask Gabi to join us in my office, bitte?”

“May I ask why? What’s she done?” Jenny was a bit worried by the serious tone of his request.

George looked at her and sensing Jenny’s concern, stated, “Nein … nein … nothing like that.”

“We’ve received some requests asking for both of you to make a few appearances and I just wanted to discuss them.”

A short time later, the two women were in sitting in front of his desk, waiting for him to begin.

“Just to bring you two up to speed. While you were gone last Friday, I received this request from ‘Das Erste’. Seems they’re making a documentary on Germans and sport. They want to do a piece on the team und estimated they’d be filming here for about a week sometime next month … but there’s also a good probability they vill be tagging along for a time when we go to Australia in February,” George explained. “The final dates for filming haff yet to be set.”

“The next request is from the American-based Versus television network. As I understand it they re one of those sports networks. They wish to come here for a couple of days … Oct. 30th und 31st to be exact … to do a story on the team … und on you two, specifically. I’ve already okay’d their request.”

“We also have one from that new shopping complex north of Bonn. The sports chain Foot-Locker is opening up a large store and they’ve requested the team along with you, Jenny … and Maria, to do a public appearance and autograph session. That’s the 14th of December. It’s a Saturday … any problems?”

“Nein,” both women answered.

“Now, I believe this next request is from an acquaintance of yours … Caro?” George stated. The mention of her name got the undivided attention of the two ladies.

“The British Cycling Federation in Manchester is having a charity track event to help some local food banks und they are asking that the both of you make an appearance … do a few laps … show yourselves … that kind of thing.”

Re-adjusting the papers on his desk, George continued.

“Caro also asks that Gabi compete in a few team and individual heats and if you feel up to it, Jenny … she says they’d love to haff you also compete along side of her … but she strongly emphasizes that it is totally up to you.”

“Sounds like Caro,” Gaby commented as she addressed her mother. George looked confused with the obvious familiarity displayed by Gaby.

“Sorry George. Caroline’s a family friend and Gaby’s Godmother,” Jenny hastily added for George’s benefit.

After some reflection, George quickly added, “I know that’s very short notice for you Jenny … especially if you decide to compete … but think about it? The date that was given is Dec.7 … which is a Saturday. If you do it … you can be there on the Friday morning and come home Monday … let you have a day with your friends, ja?”

As Jenny started to rise, Gaby put her hand on her mum’s arm.

“Mum ... can we do it?”

Jenny resumed her seat and thought about it for a brief time.

“It might be fun, at that...” Jenny confirmed as she beamed a smile at her daughter. “I’ll give Caro a ring when I get back to my office and give her the good news.”

On the way back, she turned to Gaby and commented, “That gives you and the team about a-month-and-a half to get me in shape, kiddo!”

As she ran off to find the others, Gaby called back to her mum, “We’ll do it!”

Later on the way home, Gaby started thinking aloud.

“Mum? How ‘bout having Mad an’ the others come to Manchester with us? If we arrived on the Thursday night ... we could have our final fittings Friday morning ... an’ be at the Federation’s velodrome in the afternoon, for the charity ride.”

“Kill two birds with one stone, eh? I’ll ask George if he can arrange it, first thing tomorrow,” Jenny said with a smile.

The next morning at the team building, Jenny came into the weight room upon noticing that Gaby and ‘her girls’ were in there, working out.

“Everything’s arranged for Manchester and for better or worse ... I’m all yours in the afternoons,” Jenny announced while sporting a silly grin.

“Oh ... make sure you take Jessica’s things with you so we can see what they’ll look like with your dress,” Jenny added before she headed back to her office.

Gaby knew her mum was thrilled to be getting back in her element, even if it was a one-time effort for a ‘home-town charity event’.

A month later……

When Gaby took the key out of the ignition, Maddy leaned over and firmly planted a kiss on her fiancée’s lips.

“For luck, sweetheart,” Maddy whispered into Gaby’s ear.

Deep down, she was a bundle of nerves and she knew that Gaby felt the same, despite her calm appearance. This marked a big step in their plans. They were finally going to have their scheduled meeting with Reverend Albrecht and his assistant, Reverend Gotthard.

After their lips parted, Gaby let out an audible sigh before they got out of the car. She found the chill of the early November evening air was ‘just what she needed’, as she walked around to join her fiancée.

Taking Maddy’s hand in hers, the girls exited the public car park and walked across the almost empty town square. As they approached the ‘Town Church’, they ignored the large front doors and silently walked along the side of the stone wall of the structure until they came to the smaller ‘South Door’.

“What now?” Maddy asked as they stepped inside.

“We wait…”

At the appointed time a tall middle-aged man wearing a minister’s collar and looking more like a Canadian lumberjack with his red plaid flannel shirt and blue jeans, approached the girls.

“Guten Abend, Damen … Frá¤ulein Bond … und Frá¤ulein Peters? … Willkommen”.

“Danke,” they both replied.

Rev. Albrecht bade the girls accompany him to his office. As they entered, they found his assistant, Reverend Gotthard already there.

“It’s so nice to see the both of you again. I recall when I last spoke to your mama, Gabi … she mentioned you had some ideas for the ceremony?” Rev. Gotthard asked.

Gaby turned to look at Maddy and then grasping her hand, returned her attention to Rev. Gotthard.

“We do … but we don’t know if you’ll allow them.”

“Then why don’t you tell us and let us decide?” Rev. Albrecht softly asked with a smile.

For the next little while, both girls outlined their ideas and the reasoning for their inclusion into the ceremony.

“I don’t see why we can’t accommodate your wishes. They certainly don’t conflict with the teachings of this church,” Rev. Albrecht mentioned after both he and Rev. Gotthard listened intently to the girl’s plans.

Following a brief silence, Rev. Gotthard turned to the girls. “Would you mind waiting here for ein Moment? I’d like to have a quick word with Rev. Albrecht.”

The two clergy then left the office and went out into the hallway. Both girls could hear muffled conversation as they discussed whatever was on Rev. Gotthard’s mind. When they came back into the office and re-took their seats, the girls were a little anxious.

“Sorry about that, but Rev. Gotthard is junior to myself and she raised a point about your wedding that she felt required my guidance before she brought it up.”

“As I sat here listening to you explain your ideas … a thought crossed my mind ... but before I said anything ... I felt I needed to consult Rev. Albrecht … und now ... I ask you,” Rev. Gotthard quietly began.

“As I sat here watching und listening to both of you … I couldn’t help but be moved by the love you obviously have for each other. I would be honoured if you allowed me to marry you … if … you have no objections?”

The girls looked at each other, then back to Rev. Gotthard.

“None whatsoever! It’s us who would feel honoured if you did ... Danke,” Gaby voiced. Rev. Albrecht nodded his approval.

After Rev. Gotthard noted the wedding date in the church schedule and the girls gave her their contact information, they prepared to leave with a much better feeling for the future.

As promised by George, on the evening of December fifth, the German half of the wedding party including Jenny and Gaby were whisked to the corporate hanger in Bonn.

The following morning, the entire wedding party assembled at Ye Ol’ Faire. The fittings went without any problems and in the end all the girls went away with their dresses and anxiously anticipated when they could wear them ‘for real’.

After all the ‘good-byes’ were said, everyone returned to their respective homes and the German contingent returned to their hotel. Having put the dresses in their rooms, they waited at the hotel’s main entrance for the Federation supplied transportation.

After Caro’s charity event for the food bank was over and contributions tallied, it was deemed a huge success. With a capacity crowd at the facility’s Velodrome, the final tally was some 10,200 pounds of food donated for the food bank.

Both Jenny and Gaby did a few laps with some of the juniors training with the Federation. However in a last minute decision, Jenny graciously declined to participate in any competitive heats.

Gaby did ride in three of the competitive heats with two being team events while the last event was individual. The teams for the team events were composed of one pro — Caro and Gaby, plus juniors from the Federation’s youth development program.

She won the individual event with little difficulty, although Caro did give her a few anxious moments. Her team won one of the team events, but lost the other by less than a wheel.

When it came time to meet the fans and sign autographs, Caro felt she really found a treasure with Kristen, Nina and Judith sitting in the stands. Following some token persuasion, Caro now had most of the core members of Team Apollinaris signing and mingling with those who came out for the afternoon’s events.

Dec.16th-21st…

As Lufthansa flight 1754 touched down at Pearson International, Maddy’s first thought when as she looked out the window, was snow and lots of it!

She couldn’t believe that she and Gaby were back in Toronto, alone!

“We couldn’t have come last July, could we?” Maddy sarcastically asked Gaby.

Gaby leaned over and looked out the window. When she sat back upright, she calmly looked at her fiancée and then grinning, shook her head side-to-side.

“I can’t believe a whole week with just the two of us (sigh). That was nice of George to give you the two weeks...” Maddy cooed as she held Gaby’s arm and laid her head on her love’s shoulder while the plane was taxiing up to the boarding gate.

“One week here … one week at home with the folks,” Gaby softly sighed.

“I love you,” Maddy whispered as she gently turned Gaby’s face towards hers and planted a gentle kiss on her lips.

After clearing customs and getting their luggage, the girls boarded the shuttle bus for the Royal York Hotel. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, it was literally right across the street from the train station.

Once checked in and settled in their room, Gaby phoned ‘Via’** and reserved two tickets for the following day, on the eastbound train to Belleville.

“We’ll hire a cab at the train station in Belleville to get us out to the Trading Post. It’d probably be easier if we leased a car ... but you have to be 25, just like back home,” Gaby mentioned.

Changing the subject, she asked Maddy, “I talked to the girl at the reception desk … the stores are opened late tonight. You want to go shopping for some Christmas prezzies or wait until we get back?”

“Wait…“ Maddy’s softly replied.

“Hungry? There’s bound to be some good restaurants around here.” As Gaby asked the question, she noticed Maddy had a mischievous grin on her face.

“Maybe later…” Maddy seductively breathed. As she got up off the couch, she offered Gaby her hand.

The next morning found the two up bright and early. After a good breakfast, they braved the labyrinth of Toronto’s downtown large underground shopping concourse. Even though the route from the Royal York Hotel to Union Station was only a very small portion of the total complex, they found they had to follow the signs quite closely.

Once they managed to get to the main level of the station, they picked up their tickets and made their way to the lower level of the station’s main building, where they quickly located the proper boarding gate. The hour-and-a-half train ride east through a winter wonderland, proved to be very enjoyable and relaxing for the girls.

When they arrived in Belleville, Gaby had a crazy idea but she thought she’d surprise Maddy. Instead of phoning for a cab from the station, she leafed through the local phone book until she found what she was looking for. As she turned her back to her fiancée, she pulled out her credit card.

Fifteen minutes later, she informed Maddy that she saw their cab pulling up to the front door. When the two exited the station, they encountered a small line of taxi’s looking for passengers. Gaby promptly walked past them and approached a middle-aged man standing beside a black limousine.

“C’mon … ya just gonna stand there …or ya gonna get in?” Gaby playfully asked as the driver opened the back door for the girls.

“You’re bloody daft, Gaby Bond!” exclaimed Maddy as both girls got in.

“You’re just figuring that out?” Gaby laughed as Maddy grabbed hold of her fiancée’s arm. “Besides … you’re worth it.”

Once they arrived at the Trading Post, the girls went inside and armed with a list, they went directly to the jewelry. There would be no browsing through the store this time since they were ‘on the clock’ with the limousine waiting outside.

With help from the staff, they quickly found everything they had come for and more, including the prized ceremonial shields for the Nighthawk feathers. Along with their purchases, they once again entered their ride and headed back towards town and a much anticipated late lunch.

Later that afternoon, they grabbed a cab at the restaurant and headed to the train station to catch the train back to Toronto. The return trip was relaxing but uneventful, with both girls just taking in the scenery as they sped along within sight of Lake Ontario.

Back in their hotel room while preparing to go for a late diner, Maddy turned to her intended.

“Are we daft? You realise besides flying across an ocean … we just traveled a total of some 300 kilometres just to shop at one store?”

“It was the closest store to us with the things we were looking for…” Gaby shrugged.

“When you put it that way...” Maddy breathed as she gently pushed Gaby back on the bed and lay down beside her. For several minutes, they silently held each other as their tongues met in a very intensely passionate, ‘French’ kiss.

MayschoáŸ, Dec.21-Jan.3

“You seem nervous, sis … it’s only Gran,” Jules remarked as they were waiting for their mother to return from Bonn after picking up Josy and Maureen at the airport.

“You realise that this is the first time I’ve seen her since I gave Maddy her ring? I know Mum and I’ve talked to her … but…“ Gaby nervously wondered.

“Enough already ... okay? I’ve heard it before … over an’ over! You don’t need to repeat it,” Jules raised her voice at her sister in frustration.

“Sorry, Jules...”

Gaby visibly cringed at her sister’s words and Jules immediately felt bad as she realised how apprehensive her sister was about the visit.

“It’s me who should be sorry ... not you. I know how much this means to you and Mad. I agree ... things have changed a bit since we last saw Gran.”

“Only a bit?” Gaby echoed in mock disbelief.

“Well … come to think of it … actually a whole lot … but … she’s talked with Mum quite a few times ... and I really don’t think she’d come all this way for Christmas if she had a problem with you or your engagement to Maddy … now would she?” Jules quietly stated as she put her arms around her sister and held her.

“I guess you’re right … but I still reserve the right to be nervous until Gran gets here and says something,” Gaby flatly commented.

“I imagine Maddy’s having the much the same thoughts about her Gran,” Jules offered.

“Yeah (sigh). I know exactly wot she’s going through...” Gaby muttered.

”At least our Gran still has one granddaughter ... with a boyfriend,” Gaby smugly pointed out. “Maddy’s Gran’s just been told by her daughter that her only grandchild’s engaged ... to another girl … an’ now ... she’s going to have to meet this girl ... me ... for the first time...”

“Sis ... you’re getting worked up about nothing. It’ll be okay.”

“Maybe ... but I‘ll be glad when it’s over,” Gaby weakly replied.

Later, Dave returned from his shopping expedition to find the girls had done a lovely job of getting the place ready for the Holidays and their grandmother.

“Mum phoned about twenty minutes ago and said Carol and her were on the way back from the airport with the two Gran’s,” Jules informed her dad as he hung up his coat.

As Jules went off to join Gaby in front of the telly, Dave headed off to his study check his email.

“Hey kids! … You forgot something!” he later called out to the girls.

When the girls came back to the kitchen door to see what the fuss was about, they saw Dave had just finished hanging Mistletoe in the doorway.

“Now we’re ready!” Dave was proud of his decorating accomplishment.

Then he looked at his daughters and with a smile on his face, flatly remarked, “Not that you two will need any encouragement with Maddy or Gerhardt, but I thought I’d make it ‘official’.”

A few minutes later, Jenny’s voice rang out as Josy and her entered the back door, “We’re back! … Sorry we took so long but we had to drop Carol and Maureen off.”

“GRAN!” Both girls shouted in unison, as they ran through the house, towards the back door and Josy’s waiting arms. Josy couldn’t help but notice the small hesitation by Gaby, when she scooped up her youngest granddaughter.

“Have you been crying?” Josy softly asked.

(sniff) “I thought you’d be mad at me...”

“FerGodssake ... why, child?”

“Me and Maddy...” (sniff)

“Why would I be upset? Gaby ... you’re my granddaughter,” Josy quietly reassured her as the two continued to hold each other. “Correct me if I’m wrong ... but I thought we’d settled this a while ago...”

“That was before I gave Mad her diamond...” Gaby weakly replied.

Taking off her coat and boots, Josy steered her youngest grandchild into the lounge where they sat down on the couch.

“Listen to me … true, you’re both women … but … you’re not the only lesbian couple in the world. Maybe in this family … but not in the world...” With that bit of understated humour, Josy briefly paused to watch a small smile form on Gaby’s tear stained face.

“Gaby ... I see something much more than just two girls wanting to get married. I see a very precious love. One that shouldn’t be thrown away ... for anything. Not many couples … let alone couples your age … can claim to have a relationship as strong as yours … or gone through similar trials to what you both endured ... and survived. So … promise me you’ll do everything you can to hold onto it?”

It was like a psychological dam had been breached when she heard those words. Gaby tightened her embrace around her Gran and held it for several minutes before letting go.

A short time after Gran was finally settled in the guestroom, the Peters showed up to join the Bonds for their dinner reservation.

Before they set out for the evening, Maddy cornered her fiancée as she was coming out of the kitchen.

“Come with me, sweetheart ... there’s someone I’d like you to meet.” Taking Gaby by the hand, they found her way to where Maureen was seated in the lounge talking with Josy.

“Gran? This is the girl I’m gonna marry ... Gabrielle Bond. Sweetheart? ... My Grandmother.”

“Nice to meet you Gabrielle. About time I met the girl who stole my granddaughter’s heart,” Maureen sweetly offered.

“I have to admit that when my daughter first told me my granddaughter not only liked girls ... but ... that she was also engaged ... I felt numb. As Carol and I continued to talk ... I learned about your long relationship and I came to realise just how happy Madeline is now that you’re back in her life. It’s clear to me that she’s made the right choice ... for her ... and as far as I’m concerned that’s all that matters. You kids certainly have my blessing.”

“Thank you, Gran...” Maddy gushed as she threw her arms around Maureen’s neck and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

“Yes ... thank you...” Gaby softly echoed and then also gave Maureen a kiss on the cheek.

The rest of the Holidays went by in much the same spirit. It was the first time in many years that the extended families of the Peters and the Bonds had been together for Christmas.

Both girls attended services at the Town Church and were able to briefly speak to Rev. Gotthard following the Christmas service. Gaby informed her that they would be on the World Cup tour starting in February, occasionally returning to Bad Neuenahr. They also let her know they could be reached by email all other times.

Both of the grandmothers were intrigued with the girls’ wedding plans and how far along they had come. They were especially interested in hearing about their choice of dresses as well as seeing photos of all the dresses online.

On the morning of January 3rd, Maureen and Josy said good-bye to everyone and with their luggage bulging, they each climbed into the Bond’s Volvo wagon for the trip to the Bonn airport.

Within their luggage professionally done family photos as well as photos of daughters, husbands and granddaughters were safely packed, to be later hung on their walls.

In addition, each of the grandmothers had another photo, this one probably a bit more special than the others only because it represented a new branch of the family tree — a portrait of Maddy and Gaby.

~*~

* Petticoate — old English spelling of petticoat. Participants in Renaissance Faires
(Live-action re-creations) use the proper terminology and old English spelling when referring to the Renaissance. In modern terms, the petticoate would be described as a floor-length, full skirt with a drawstring at the waist.

** Formerly ‘Canadian National Railways’, ‘Via Rail’ currently handles Canada’s passenger rail traffic. Canadian Pacific, Canada’s other major rail operator and one-time competitor to CN, specializes in freight.
 
 
Comments are Greatly Appreciated!

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To Be Continued...
 

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Viewing Note: This story should be viewed with the Edwardian Script ITC font installed on your Windows platform in the c:/Windows/Fonts directory. Microsoft Word installs this font automatically.

Photo Credit: Licensed royalty free. Provided by PD Photo.org .

 

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Chapter 7A
 
Author's Note: A few of you have expressed an interest in the wedding and in particular, the girl's choice of 'non-wedding' dresses from the Renaissance period.

Way back when I was originally writing "Reconciliation 7", I went online to various Renaissance-related stores and found the dresses I envisioned the girls wearing. The description of those dresses in the chapter is derived from the photos and the specified colour choices are the actual choices provided online.

The only liberty I took was in the colour of Maddy's dress and petticoate. Those colours were not an option for her dress choice, but as much of the work for these re-enactment Faires is a combination of ready-made and custom work, it didn't seem too much of a stretch to see Maddy's dress as a one-of-a-kind creation based on an existing design.

I thought it might be helpful and interesting if you were able to see those photos:


This first photo is Gaby's choice for a wedding dress. Despite looking like a one-piece dress in the photo, it's actually a dress worn over a chemise - as described in the story.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

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To Be Continued...
 

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Viewing Note: This story should be viewed with the Edwardian Script ITC font installed on your Windows platform in the c:/Windows/Fonts directory. Microsoft Word installs this font automatically.

Photo Credit: Licensed royalty free. Provided by PD Photo.org .

 

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Chapter 8
 
On the first morning back at the Team Apollinaris complex after the Holidays, life was starting to settle back into a routine.

Jenny, Dave and Maria went back to planning out the coming year for the Youth Development Program and George went back to dealing with the pro team. His immediate focus was on the upcoming 2013 World Cup Tour with training scheduled to start in mid February, in Australia and he had to finalize arrangements with his staff.

“Gabi … ein Moment, bitte?” George called out to Gaby as she and Tina passed his office on the way to the weight room. Tina continued on her way after telling her that she’d meet her there.

As Gaby entered his office, George motioned for her to take a seat.

“The UCI finally got back to me about the 2013 schedule … und they confirmed that there ist a break in May, from the 11th to the 28th … but when you take into account any additional training we can get in between races … that break shrinks to nine days … from the 12th to the 20th.”

Gaby remained motionless and silent while she thought about what she was just told.

“Sorry … but that’s the best I can give you, Gabi. We haff Montreal on the 29th this year,” George said apologetically.

“That’s fine, George. We’ll take some time in the off-season. The main thing is that the 18th is free,” Gaby cheerfully replied.

“Frohes Neues Jahr, Gabi!” George enthused as she started to leave his office.

“It’ll be a very happy New Year, George ... Danke,” Gaby happily replied. She couldn’t help but be walking on the proverbial ‘Cloud 9’ as she continued to the weight room. More pieces were falling into place.

That evening when Gaby went over to Maddy’s place, after telling her that George had confirmed the chosen date was okay, she asked about the invitations.

“I gave Daddy all the invitations, sweetheart. He’ll mail them for us at the main post office in Bonn when he goes into work,” Maddy confirmed.

“I got some good news today, too. George phoned and asked me if I have a job yet. When I told him ‘no’ …he asked if I’d come back as his assistant for this year’s World Cup Tour. Claimed I was too efficient last year.”

“You take his offer?”

“Naturally! Gives us a bit more money … and we’ll be able to keep on top of things in the evenings.”

While the girls sat at the kitchen table, taking stock of the wedding preparations and with only four and a half months to go, it suddenly occurred to both of them that they’d not put any consideration into finding their own place.

The team was scheduled to depart for Australia at the end of the month and with Maddy going along as well, that left no one to pursue the housing question. Added to that, they realised they’d have to trust their mothers to make all of the remaining arrangements.

“It’s too late to begin looking for a place … isn’t it?” Maddy asked.

“We have three weeks … but the only real option I can think of is to see if George can set things in motion to get us an flat like he did with Mum. We’ll just have to trust ‘em to follow-up while we’re gone,” Gaby thought out loud.

She quickly added with a sombre tone in her voice, “I know Apollinaris still have the few flats they had when Mum was riding with the team ... question is … if there’s a vacancy.”

Seeing how upset Maddy was getting, Gaby reached across the table for her hand.

“It probably won’t be for long … just enough time for us to see what we can afford and find something … ‘kay?”

“At least tomorrow’s a work day. We can always ask George about the flat when we see him. How could we forget about something like this?” Maddy asked in disbelief.

“I don’t know, luv … too caught up in all the other things, I guess. We’ll just have to wait an’ see what George can do.” The more they thought about it, the angrier Gaby became with herself.

Later that evening, she talked to her parents about their housing problem. Together, they tried to think of and explore different options the girls could look into before the team left for Australia, As the evening progressed, it became clear that their best hope rested with George looking into the possibility of getting the girls into one of the ‘team flats’.

“On that depressing note ... I think I’ll just go to bed. ‘Nite, Mum ... ‘nite, Dad.” After giving her parents a kiss on the cheek, Gaby slowly headed up to her room.

Later that evening, Jenny took the opportunity to continue the discussion with Dave in the privacy of their bedroom.

“Dave … what if George can’t put them into a flat and they can’t find their own place in three weeks? They’ve put so much into this and now it’s … isn’t there something we can do to help the kids?”

He sat quietly on the bed beside his wife and put his arms around her shoulders. After a minute or two of thought, he arrived at a possible solution.

“I have an idea … but let me work on it a bit … okay? I don’t want to give you or the kids false hope if this doesn’t look like it’s going to pan out.”

Then he quietly added, “It might work to our advantage that the girls are leaving on the World Cup ... c’mon … morning comes early.”

Jenny nodded in agreement and they both settled into their bed and turned out the lights.

“Mornin’ dear …. feel better?” Jenny softly greeted Gaby as she entered the kitchen.

“Not really. We still need a place to live … unless the house-fairy came last night an’ left the keys under my pillow. Maybe I should check?” Gaby mentioned with a hint of sarcasm.

Jenny chanced a quick glance at Dave before she looked back at her daughter and saw the usual sparkle in her eyes, was gone.

“I told Mad I’d go see George today. Hopefully he can put us in one of the team flats.”

“What if he can’t, darling?” Jenny asked.

“I dunno. Mad an’ I don’t really have time to look around before we hafta leave.”

Gaby was in the midst of making herself a tea, when she suddenly turned to face her mother sitting at the kitchen table.

“You don’t think George will make either Kris or Nina move in with the other would, you? “

“Well … they are two-bedroom flats…” Jenny softly pointed out.

“He didn’t with you! You had your own place … an’ so do Kris an’ Nina.”

“Yes … but he also had the flats available to him to let him give each girl who needed one, their own place. You lived here and didn’t need a place. Now you’re getting married and you need a place of your own.”

“I know … but I don’t want one of our friends to move just for us. It doesn’t seem fair.”

Jenny rose up from her seat and hugged her youngest daughter. She could tell the stress and frustration of the wedding was beginning to take a toll on Gaby.

“Tell you what. Let us … George … your father … and I … have a crack at the problem. We’ll try to work something out so your friends don’t have to move … okay? Either way … your dad and I will make sure you and Maddy have a roof over your heads … even if it’s here. Now, let us help … you two have enough to worry about.”

“Thanks Mum…” As Gaby laid her head on her mum’s shoulder, a tear escaped and ran down her cheek.

“Don’t hold it in, dear…” Jenny whispered. The two continued to hold each other for several more minutes, before parting.

(sniff) “I’m fine Mum,” Gaby replied in an emotional and subdued voice.

“You sure?”

(sniff) “Yeah … I just needed that hug.” (sniff)

“Anytime you feel you need one…” Jenny softly replied while holding back one or two tears of her own. The two carried on with their breakfast and generally getting ready to face another day.

Since Jules was now carpooling with Heinrich to her new job in Bonn, it was a relatively quiet ride to work for Jenny, Dave and the two girls. Gaby’s parents did score a victory of sorts in that both girls reluctantly resigned themselves to letting their parents worry about the housing situation.

When they got out of the car at the training facility, Jenny hugged Gaby and reminded her to focus on her job and let others focus on the housing. She just nodded and silently walked into the complex with Maddy.

A few minutes after they got to their respective offices, Dave noticed his wife walking past his door, apparently heading for George’s office.

“Jen …” Dave called out before she was out of earshot. He quickly rose from his chair and joined her outside his door.

“We’ll see George together. I want him to help if he can … but I don’t want him to do anything that he can’t undo … you follow?”

“No, I don’t. You want to put that in plain English?” A confused Jenny asked.

“I’ll explain when we see him, okay?” Dave replied as they both walked to George’s office.

The same time they were having the impromptu meeting with George, the entire pro-team and their support staff, were gathering in the main conference room for a pre-World Cup Tour meeting.

“Okay, people … hot off the press … your 2013 World Cup schedule.”

Tina started passing them out to everyone gathered for the meeting.

“I’ve been told that George has been delayed for a few minutes … but when he gets here, he wants to go over these in detail. In the meantime … I suggest we look them over,” she added in a business-like manner.

As individuals began to look over the schedules, eyes began to turn towards Maddy and Gaby. By the time George arrived, both girls were blushing profusely under the stares of their friends.

“Have the schedules been handed out Tina?” he asked as he walked into the room.

Scanning the faces of the assembled team members, his gaze fell upon the happy couple and the smug look that was on both their faces.

“Ja … I guess they have.”

After a few minutes of joking around, he got down to business.

“Before we get into the thick of things … I want to say something. You all know Maddy Peters from last season. She’ll be joining us again this year … und like last year ... she’ll be responsible for keeping your stats straight as well as helping out in the team car ... so be nice to her.”

George quickly added with a knowing smile, “If you know what I mean.”

He then spent the next couple of hours running down the entire schedule and taking questions and comments from the team. Even though the first race wasn’t scheduled until the 23rd of the month, they were scheduled to begin their road training in Australia on the 6th of February.

Once the schedule began, Gaby aggressively tackled her training and races, during the ‘Tour”. She was determined to capture the 2013 World Champion title for her mum. This year the World Championship was once again, to be determined at the completion of the race ‘down under’.

She convincingly took Australia’s World Cup — Geelong in a 70-meter sprint, narrowly beating out Jocelyn Loane of the Australian National Team and Anna Beyer of RG Stuttgart. The victory gave her the World Champion title she had been looking for.

Kristen and Susan were unfortunately taken out of the final sprint when an enthusiastic fan accidentally clipped a T-Mobile rider, causing her to lose control and brush up against one of the crowd control barriers.

The pile-up that resulted took several cyclists down to the pavement. Most walked away with a few deep scrapes but Kristen got the worst of it with a sprained right wrist and a gash to the arm. The team doctor would evaluate her on a day-to-day basis to determine if she was fit to race.

The girls were also concerned that her injury to her arm might prove serious enough to exclude Kris from the wedding.

In the New Zealand World Cup, Gaby came in fifth place overall, but she took the ‘Queen of the Hill’ title with a very decisive performance in capturing all but one of the hill climbs.

Kristen had started the race but was forced to abandon after the first 25 kilometres due to her wrist. Fortunately there was a rather long period before the Tour des Flandres in Belgium, during which she could recover.

Later, in the Tour de Berne, Gaby again stood on the podium, this time taking first place overall in addition to capturing all the hill climb points.

The final results saw a podium sweep by Team Apollinaris. Kristen felt she had something to prove with her withdrawing from the New Zealand race. Her fierce determination resulted in a third place on the podium, losing out by a wheel to Tina. Now, a clear signal had been sent to the other teams and the cycling world in general that they were the women’s team to beat!

During the course of the race, the cycling world had sat up and taken notice of Jenny Bond’s youngest daughter, for her abilities as much as her heritage. Her peers always knew she was good, yet she was always seen as being in her mum’s shadow.

In the opening clashes of the current 2013 World Cup tour, Gaby had firmly established herself as a very real triple threat as a tactician, a superb hill climber and as someone who was more than capable in the short sprints.

Just as importantly, she’d earned a reputation of being an aggressive competitor like her mum, both early on as a junior and now as a pro. On this World Cup, her peers would learn just how aggressive she could be.

In Spain’s Gran Premio Castilla y Leon, Gaby took her third first place finish and for the second consecutive race, also took the coloured jersey for the “Queen of the Hill”.

The following day was a chance for the team to catch their collective breath after the performance they gave during the first half of the season. As George sat in his hotel room and pondered the first half of the season, he was aware that something or someone had inspired his team. Corporate Apollinaris was ecstatic and George was sure he had to find some way to bottle this new-found drive that gripped the team.

The following day, they packed up to head back to Bad Neuenahr.

May 12th, 7 days and counting…

“Say Auf Wiedersehen to sunny Spain, you two. Faster you guys are on board … faster you will be back home.” Tina excitedly exclaimed as she walked out to the waiting aircraft with the two girls.

The excitement of their upcoming wedding was infectious to everyone who’d accompanied the team on this leg of the World Cup. The good natured joking between Tina, Susan and Gaby, only reminded her that in seven days, she’d be a married woman.

“Enough of that … both of you! You trying to scare the girl?” George playfully berated the two ladies as they boarded.

The three who would serve as Gaby’s bridesmaids, occupied the row of seats in front of the happy couple while Tina occupied the window seat beside Maddy and Gaby.

“Achtung … bitte,” George stood up in the aisle by his seat and got the group’s attention once the plane was airborne. “Danke.”

He began his little talk with congratulating the team with all their successes thus far in the World Cup.

“Apollinaris is proud of you and I’m proud of you. We’ve had an excellent season so far ... und for our troubles ... we’ve become everybody’s target!” and then pointing menacingly towards Gaby, he added, “Und you Frá¤ulein! You’re number one on their ‘hit list’!”

Once the laughing and good-natured jibes had faded, George once again addressed the group.

“All I can say is that on behalf of our sponsor und myself …Danke … for all your efforts to-date!”

“Now … if I can change subject for ein moment.”

He remained standing in the aisle with his hands resting on the backs of the seats to either side of him, as he looked directly at Maddy and Gaby.

“Gabi … like your Mama … you’ve managed to crawl under the skin und into the hearts of everyone in the Team Apollinaris organization. As if that’s not enough … you brought Maddy mit you … und she had the same intoxicating effect on us as you did.”

George then walked the few steps up the aisle to where the girls were sitting and put a hand on the headrest of seat in front of Gaby. Following a brief pause to choose his words he took a deep breath before going on.

“Gabi … Maddy … I know the next few days are going to be chaotic at best for both of you … so I’ll say it now. On behalf of everyone on this plane … I want to wish the two of you all the best … not only for Saturday … but for the many, many years to come. Your union may cause more than a few eyebrows to be raised around the world … but I’m convinced that if you remain the Maddy und Gabi we’ve all come to know und love … the rest of the world will have no choice but to follow.”

As both girls rose from their seats, they had tears of joy in their eyes. Once they stepped out into the aisle, he received a hug and a peck on the cheek from both girls, to the sounds of applause from the rest of the cabin’s occupants.

Before they sat back down, each girl turned and thanked the rest of the team for their wishes. As they settled back in their seats, Tina passed them the seemingly ever-present tissue.

“Thought you might need these,” Tina smugly commented.

“Danke, mama…” Gaby playfully answered through a huge grin.

A short while later, George once again approached the girls.

“Gabi ... bitte?”

With a questioning glance to Maddy, she followed him back to his seat where he then picked up his opened laptop and motioned for her to sit in the now empty seat beside him.

Passing her the laptop, he casually mentioned, “I thought this would interest you. I’d like to show it to your mama when we get back … ja?”

Gaby looked at an Excel spreadsheet showing all the stats for the 2013 World Cup races that have been ridden to date. While it sat on her lap, George reached over to indicate a few of the displayed columns.

“Everyone on the team has a detailed spreadsheet like this ... und this is yours. With this, I can keep track of your stats for a full season ... but your sheet is also unique. Notice how each race listed has two lines ... und there ist a purple line of stats ... even for races you’ve yet to ride.”

“Ja.”

“Well, there’s a reason for that ... those are your mama’s,” George admitted. Gaby looked at George with a puzzled expression. He merely directed her attention to specific races listed on the display.

“Look closely, Gabi ... especially here ... here ... und here.”

At first, Gaby marvelled at seeing her mother’s stats for her last season of competition. She’d set records in several of the same races and on the same courses that Gaby had ridden or will ride. What shocked Gaby was that in three of the six races she’d ridden to date, she’d either broken or shattered some of her mother’s records, according to the display that she saw in front of her.

“You’re first overall in the GC standings at this point … and by a good margin, too … but don’t get over confident und let that lead slip away. You can take it this year if you remain focused … und I know you can.”

Gaby looked at the screen then turned to George, not really knowing what to say.

“Now go back to Maddy … und enjoy the rest of the trip. You’ll be home in a couple of hours.”

“Danke George,” Gaby quietly replied as she rose from the seat.

“Did he show you?” Maddy asked as her fiancée returned to her seat.

“You knew?” Gaby was genuinely surprised.

“Duh! What have I been doing all this time? Who do you think dug up your mum’s stats and compiled that spreadsheet? George was only curious to see how you compared. Boy ... was he surprised!” Maddy softly replied as she leaned over to give Gaby a gentle kiss.

All this time Tina was watching the girls.

“Sorry … I didn’t mean to just sit here und stare,” Tina apologized after Gaby noticed her.

“Not that you had much of a choice … sitting there, I mean...” Gaby replied with a giggle as she indicated Tina’s window-seat. “It was either the tops of the clouds … or us … an’ I’d know where I’d be lookin’.”

For the remainder the trip, the five girls discussed the remaining days leading up to the wedding. They made a ‘check list’ for everything that had to be done before Saturday and a few times, Tina was even asked for her opinions. Above all else, both girls were very anxious to get back and see what their mothers had done to all their plans.

“I’m going to ask George if he can arrange to fly Em and the others over in the next day or two … okay, sweetheart?” Maddy asked.

“Good idea,” Gaby replied as she moved to let Maddy out from her seat.

“That’s all set. Now, when he knows which day we can have the plane … we can phone the girls and let them know the plans,” Maddy quietly announced as she returned and sat back down.

In what seemed all to short a time, they were asked to fasten their seat belts as they lost altitude and joined the landing pattern at the Ká¶ln-Bonn Airport.

As the chartered Airbus A319CJ taxied up to the Apollinaris corporate hanger, they were able to see that the team’s mini-bus and trailer was brought around from its long-term parking and was waiting by the hanger.

Once the engines shut down, Mike and Hans helped the ground crew unload the team’s equipment from the aircraft while the girl’s of Team Apollinaris climbed on board the bus and patiently waited for Mike to slip into the driver’s seat.

Unlike on the plane, the mood was more somber, almost as if the team was reflecting on what exactly they’d accomplished and what was to come. For five of the girls, that reflection included some non-cycling issues.

A little more than an hour later, the bus turned into the car park at the Bad Neuenahr training facility and was met by Dave, Jenny and Maria. As they got off, everyone got their luggage and prepared to head home following the summoning of their respective rides.

“Dave? … Jenny? … bitte?” The elder Bonds followed George into his office, as the two girls put their bags in the back of the Volvo.
While waiting at the car, the girl’s found Dave’s mobile and Maddy decided to call Kat and fill her in.

Some time later, Gaby’s parents emerged from the building. When an elated Jenny reached the car, she threw open her arms and tightly embraced her daughter.

“I knew you had it in you!” Jenny enthused.

“George already showed you the stats?” Gaby asked.

“Uh-huh. I’m so proud, darling! When you phoned after your races, why didn’t you tell me?” Gaby saw that her mum had a few tears rolling down her cheeks.

“I didn’t know myself until George showed me on the plane,” Gaby replied.

Jenny gave her daughter another squeeze before they all got into the car and began the short drive home.

“Mum? Did you remember to pick up the wedding bands from the safety deposit box?” Gaby asked.

“They don’t close for another 45 minutes, so we still have time … now relax. Carol and I have everything running smoothly,” Jenny cheerfully replied.

The two girls skeptically looked at each other and then Gaby turned back to her mum.

“Why do I feel like Mad and I should be really afraid?” Gaby playfully asked.

“You don’t trust us?” Jenny pouted.

“Seriously, Mum … is everything okay? Church … hotel … reception … salon appointments … our flat … everything?” Gaby questioned, hoping her mother would take the hint and convey some news about their housing or lack thereof.

“Nerves?” Jenny asked trying to deflect the issue.

“I guess so…” Gaby turned and looked at Maddy, before she replied.

“Everything’s just fine. Now don’t worry.” Jenny spoke in a reassuring tone as she left the car to go and pick up the wedding bands.

When she got out, Jenny had a sparkle in her eyes as she gave a knowing glance to her husband. The girls weren’t really paying attention to what was happening up front or they may have caught the subtle signals passed between the two.

While the three of them were sitting in the car waiting for Jen, Dave’s mobile went off.

“Hallo? … Ja, ist sie hier.” Dave answered the phone and passed it to Gaby. “It’s George.”

“Hallo, George? … das ist wundervoll! … vielen Dank … Auf Wiedersehen.”

The other two could feel Gaby’s excitement as she passed the phone back to her dad.

Maddy was the first to speak. “Well… do we have a place?”

“Not quite ... but we do get the plane to pick up Em and the others, on the 14th. Might as well let Kat and the others know to expect
Company. I’ll give Em a call tonight with the details so she can let your friends know.”

“That was quick!” Maddy enthused.

“I guess you’ll need this,” Dave intoned as he passed the mobile back to Maddy.

Jenny returned with the rings just as Maddy completed another call to Kat and was passing the mobile back to Dave. Gaby let her mum know about George’s call and that she’ll be calling Em later.

When the girls pressed about the housing, Jenny looked at Dave.

“Everything’s under control. We managed to get you our old flat and they’re fixing it up as we speak. Don’t worry … it’ll be ready in time.” Jenny said, reassuringly. Neither girl caught the subtle side-glances exchanged by the two up front.

“Can we go see it?” both girls asked.

“Das ist verboten!” Dave firmly replied and then trying to stifle a smile, added, “You’ll just have to wait.”

The next day consisted of various housekeeping chores, for everybody that was on the World Cup Tour, both at the Team’s training facility and at home.

The pro team & the mechanics were busy with all the little adjustments to the bikes that were required after a tour like the team just rode. In addition to all the mid-season break activity, finalizing wedding plans and getting things ready to house the British girls was never far from the minds of those involved.

On Tuesday, while most everyone on the pro team had their first real day of rest, Jenny took the family’s van to the Apollinaris hanger at the Ká¶ln-Bonn Airport. Jules and Kat kept the happy-couple busy going over the many last minute details one encounters when planning a wedding.

Apollinaris was to fly Jenny to Manchester to pick up the rest of the wedding party and then fly everyone back to Bonn. She figured if things continued to go smoothly, the entire return trip should only take a few hours.

“That’s a big IF … knock on wood.”

The flight took a little more than ninety minutes and Jenny arrived in Manchester about one in the afternoon, local time. As she walked into the FlightLinks’ waiting room, the level of excitement she felt from the five waiting girls was almost palpable.

“Hope everyone had lunch, but if you’re starving … I’ve put some crisps and pop on board … an’ if a certain young lady remembers to make dinner reservations at one of Bad Neuenahr’s better Gasthaus … you’ll all be enjoying some real German cooking tonight,” Jenny announced. “Otherwise … you’re stuck with my cooking.”

“Once we land … I’ll take you to the Team Apollinaris training facility outside of Bad Neuenahr, where the other girls will be waiting for us.”

To her slight amusement, Jenny soon discovered the wedding wasn’t the only cause for the excitement.

Ann and Brenda had never flown before and were looking forward to the new experience. By contrast, both Em and Ally were seasoned travellers, having flown to America, but it was their first trip in something smaller than a large airliner and the excitement or rather apprehension was certainly there.

Cathy was the most experienced flier of the five girls, acquiring her private pilot’s licence at the age of 16.

While they walked out on the tarmac to the parked aircraft, Em made a sweeping gesture at the plane and commented in a monotone voice, “After this … even a limo will seem sooo ordinary.”

“That’s for us?” Ann wondered.

“I gotta find me a millionaire!” Brenda enthused while staring at ‘their private jet’.

“William may be married, but I heard that Harry’s still available,” Ann quickly replied.

“I’ve still got a chance!” Brenda quickly shot back.

That brought more than a few chuckles from the girls, including Jenny.

After allowing the ground crew to stow their luggage, everyone boarded and prepared for departure.

As they were approaching Bonn, Jenny put down the handset of the plane’s in-flight phone and announced, “Good news, girls … Gaby remembered our reservations!”

The next four days would be taken up with all the girls double-checking that every little detail had been done, as well as just enjoying Bad Neuenahr and area.

Jenny and Carol had hoped that by keeping Maddy and Gaby employed as tour guides showing their friends around, they just might find a bit of time to unwind from all the accumulated stress that came from planning their own wedding.

Friday evening would have everyone attending the wedding rehearsal and the following rehearsal party at the Peters.
 
 
Comments are Greatly Appreciated!

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To Be Continued...
 

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Viewing Note: This story should be viewed with the Edwardian Script ITC font installed on your Windows platform in the c:/Windows/Fonts directory. Microsoft Word installs this font automatically.

Photo Credit: Licensed royalty free. Provided by PD Photo.org .

 

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Chapter 9
 
May 15, 2013, Dulles International (Washington, DC)

“May I have your attention please? ... United flight 920 is now ready to board … Please have your passports and boarding passes ready ... Thank-you.”

“Ready, Deb? ... It’ll sure be nice to see Gaby and Maddy again ... just wish the guys came along with us!” Despite her efforts to sound calm, Britney’s excitement was evident to those around her.

“For the umpteenth time, sis … Ken couldn’t afford the time! He’s got to work on his thesis so he can get it in on time. Now if you want to talk about missing boyfriends ... c’mon … pay attention! The line’s movin’.”

As they walked past the desk at the entrance to the boarding gate and down the boarding ramp Debbie turned to her sister.

“Make sure you got your boarding pass for the connecting flight in London!”

“Yeah … I got it. See?” Britney impatiently waved it in front of her sister’s face.

“Sorry … just sometimes…” Debbie calmly stated.

“Yeah … I know ... sorry, sis. Anyway, like I was saying … I thought Matt was really more open-minded than that!” The disappointment was evident in Britney’s voice.

“Like Mom and Dad?” Debbie sarcastically inquired. Before Britney could say anything, she added, “Well … you know how I feel about it!”

“You’re not the only one…” Britney agreed as she gave a knowing glance to her sister.

“But there is a difference ... we don’t have to think up an excuse for Matt!” Britney observed, as the two entered the waiting Boeing 767 and began searching for their seats.

“Here we are ... I get the window!”

Britney’s enthusiasm reminded Debbie of a similar trans-Atlantic flight almost a decade earlier.

“Well … we have a few hours to think up a good un’ for Mom and Dad.” Debbie mentioned as they sat down.

“Why? Jus’ tell ‘em the truth. I’m sure at least Gaby remembers the crap she encountered!” Britney exclaimed.

“I’m sure both of them do ... considering ... but I doubt Gaby thought Mum and Dad would be like that,” Debbie quietly replied.

“Remember Mom’s reaction to me kissing Gaby before she got on the bus? ... At least Gaby was spared that!” Britney recalled.

“Yeah, but back then you thought Gabs was a boy named Drew ...” Debbie countered. “Then again … Mom only saw her youngest daughter laying down the ‘mother of all kisses’ on another girl.”

“Boy ... girl ... whatta kiss,” Britney softly cooed as she closed her eyes and reminisced with a growing smile.

“So … which one did you have the crush on? Drew or … Gaby?” Debbie asked seductively.

“You really want to know?” Britney coyly replied.

(Ahem!) “Maybe you’re right, sis. If they ask about Mom and Dad … go with the truth,” Debbie flatly stated as she tried to suppress her own smirk.

“Miss? Please fasten your seat belt. We’re departing the gate,” the cabin attendant requested as she passed Debbie’s seat.

“Sorry,” Debbie replied.

As Britney turned to watch out the window, they felt the aircraft being pushed back from the boarding gate by the tow tractor.

“Hey Deb! We’re going!” Britney excitedly told her sister in hushed tones.

While they were taxiing out and sitting awaiting their turn to depart, the cabin crew were going through the talk on safety precautions that all airlines require.

Moments later, the big jet moved onto the active runway and as the whine of the massive jet engines grew to a higher pitch with the increased power settings, the aircraft began its take-off run. While the aircraft was still climbing after departing Dulles International, Debbie touched her sister’s arm to get her attention.

“Whattcha thinking, sis?” Debbie asked.

“I dunno, really…” Britney philosophically replied.

“Well … when you do … let me know?” Debbie playfully replied.

As the plane reached cruising altitude, the cabin crew started to come around asking the passengers if they’d like a drink.

“Excuse me ladies … can I get you anything?”

“Umm … I’ll have a Coke, please?” Britney asked after looking over the selection.

“I’ll have a ginger ale, please,” Debbie replied.

After the cabin attendant handed over the two drinks along with the usual bag of peanuts, she left the girls as they settled back in their seats, for a long flight.

Britney closed her eyes and started to relax while her sister tried to get interested in a rather thick paperback that she purchased before boarding. Occasionally, Debbie would notice her sister glance over to her then abruptly turn back. She let that go on for some time and then decided she had to say something.

“Brit … what’re you doing? You’re constantly looking at me like you want to say something … then go back to looking out the window! Now what’s up?”

“I dunno … just thinking about all the times we had with Drew,” Britney softly replied

“You mean Gaby, don’t you? We hardly ever saw Drew … and the odd time we did … we got him in a dress or skirt pretty fast!” Debbie softly countered.

“I couldn’t help it if he was prettier as a girl!” Britney admitted.

“I think you mean more attractive … not … prettier!” Debbie whispered while suppressing another smirk. She still loved how Britney blushed every time she hinted at her sister’s crush on the younger Bond.

“You gotta wonder at times … I wouldn’t be the least bit surprised if Brit came out and told me she’s a lesbian … I’d love her just the same … even if Mom and Dad couldn’t.”

“Okay … but that was a long time ago. Maddy’s got her now … and I’m extremely happy for both of them!” Britney acknowledged. She then turned and stared out the window at the water passing below.

As they prepared to over-fly Nova Scotia, Debbie finally got into her book while Britney preferred to stare out the window, in deep thought.

“It’s ironic … in Warsop … Deb and I knew you were a boy … but after we learned about Gaby, the challenge was just too good to pass up … it became like a drug … we couldn’t stop putting you into skirts even after your dad had talked with us … you were just so damned pretty! Mom and Dad were just as convinced that you were a girl ... but according to what Jessica told us after you left Virginia … when you and Jules came to Grottoes ... the only thing Deb and I were right about, was that you had a penis!

Geez … Can’t believe how Mom went ballistic until Dad and Jessica calmed her down. To be fair, she wasn’t angry at you Gabs … you didn’t ask to be born that way … she was just angry at us for deceiving her until Jessica convinced her that even we didn’t know.

When you think about it ... who was deceiving who? Like Jess said ... you were always ‘Gaby’. If there were any doubts, one just has to look at that last photo you emailed me ... I certainly wouldn’t throw you out of my bed!

Looking back ... maybe it was a good thing that we didn’t know the truth about ‘Gaby’. We’d probably have ended up as mental wrecks, keeping your secret. As it was, I really thought I was protecting you from those sex-obsessed Neanderthals in the school when I let loose with the ‘lesbian comment’. I didn’t plan to say it … it just came out! … But after I said it … I felt like I did good … you never did get hit upon … but ... I just never thought of how it would hurt you! If Jules never stopped you, you would’ve killed yourself … all because of the shit you had to go through while in the US … all because of what I said. I destroyed your life and ruined friendships. SHIT! …It’s now taken how many years to get just some of that back?

… Deb was right … the kids were just bigots and I didn’t think things through before I acted! God ... I really messed things up for you ... didn’t I, Gabs? I’m sorry...

Though ... it’s kind of funny … in a weird kind of way. I think that half of those kids that pretended to hate you for being a lesbian, really wanted to be your friend but were too afraid to stand up to the others! I betcha half of those kids were girls, too! I can still hear some of the cheerleaders whispering to each other about how much they hated what Casey told them they had to do … and how they really felt about you … at least Sandra and Nikki wanted to get to know you a whole lot better … to put it mildly. It always amazed me that Casey never clued-in to what her precious cheerleaders were thinking in the change room!

It still pisses me off that despite Jessica’s and Mary’s efforts, parents and the school board rallied around the bigots and the kids. Showed Augusta County’s true colours ... that’s for sure. At least the school was removed from the exchange program. Man, was I glad to leave that town!”

If Debbie had looked over at her sister, she’d have seen a big smile inexplicably cross Britney’s face.

“At least some good did come out of all this, Gabs … dunno about the rest of your gang ... but I know you’re still friends with Ally … and best of all … your family is back together … you’ve built a good life for yourself in Germany with new friends and now to top it all off … you’re finally marrying your childhood sweetheart.”

After a long silence Britney turned and looked at her sister.

“You looked preoccupied … so I thought I’d leave you alone,” Debbie offered. “What were you thinking about?”

“Gabs.”

“Oh.”

“Deb?“ Britney softly asked.

“What?”

“I’m kinda nervous about seeing her again … you know ... because of what I did,” Britney quietly admitted.

“Why?” Debbie questioned.

“Maybe ‘cause I almost killed her … twice?” Britney admitted in a hushed voice.

“Three times, if you think about it...” Debbie smirked.

“Deeeb!” Britney whined.

“Brit … a lot of water has passed under the bridge since they were in Grottoes an’ you’ve been emailing each other all these years. Don’t you think if she was even a bit P/O’d, she’d have let you know?” Debbie softly replied.

“I guess so. You remember that Community Ski just after Gabs and Jules arrived in Grottoes?” Britney quietly asked.

“Like it was yesterday! Remember Mom? God! … was she mad!” Debbie quietly recalled. “For a moment I’d thought she’d discovered Drew’s secret, the way she carried on!”

“I never told anyone before ... but I was really scared for them when she and Maddy didn’t show up with the rest an’ it started to get dark!” Britney quietly admitted as she turned and faced her sister in the next seat.

“Things worked out,” Debbie mentioned.

“Only because you and Jules found those two before they froze to death. I almost killed them, sis!”

“They would’ve found Jack’s if they kept skiing,” Debbie soothed.

“Would they? It was getting colder an’ dark. As I recall they were already frozen. They could’ve easily got lost in those woods.”

“I’m sure they...”

“When I first mentioned the ‘race’ to Gaby … she wasn’t supposed to end up being hours overdue ... half frozen...” Britney tearfully lamented.

“She stayed to help Maddy! You couldn’t possibly have guessed that she’d be in trouble. Ummm ... Mad really was in trouble ... wasn’t she?” Debbie questioned.

She saw the tears in her sister’s eyes as she continued to mentally replay the unpleasant event.

“She had nothing to do with it,” Britney quietly admitted.

“Then don’t worry! It’s all in the past. If either Gaby or Maddy held you responsible in any way … they’ve forgiven you by now,” Debbie pointed out as she gave a squeeze to her sister’s hand.

“I hope you’re right…” Britney softly replied as she sat back in her seat.

“Deb?”

“Yeah?”

“When you told me Gaby tried to kill herself ‘cuz of all the crap she had to take on that exchange visit ... I … I … never imagined!” Britney emotionally confided in a quiet voice.

”An’ don’t tell me she’s forgiven me for that…” Britney suddenly found the armrest between the seats, of interest.

“If I could do it all again, I’d stand up to Casey and the others … what’s wrong with being a lesbian?”

“What makes you think that?”

“She’s never answered me … no matter how often I ask,” Britney reluctantly whispered.

“Look … sis … I know for a fact that she’s forgiven you for that…” Debbie softly reassured her sister.

“She told you?” Britney suddenly raised her eyes to look at her sister.

“No … she told you ... by sending you a wedding invitation,” Debbie softly replied as she squeezed Britney’s hand and watched her sister relax back in her seat.

After another thought-filled silence, Britney turned back to face her sister just as Debbie managed to get back into her book.

“You think Mom and Dad will ever want to see either of them again?”

As Debbie thought about the question, Britney again found her thoughts travelling back in time to the exchange visit.

“I don’t know what I was thinking when I agreed to get you to go to the Valentines Day dance ... but I’m glad you learned how to say ‘no’. If you did give in … I don’t know if I could’ve lived with myself.”

Britany’s thoughts were interrupted when she caught some movement out of the corner of her eye. When she looked around, Debbie was looking back at her.

“I dunno. Their loss if they don’t. They adored Gaby at one time. Anyway ... you said something about Matt, earlier … what happened?” Debbie whispered.

“We had a big fight after I told him about the wedding invitation. I broke up with him when he told me it was either my ‘lezzie’ friends or him … so I told him since he put it that way, it was no contest!”

“I’m sorry, sis…” Debbie whispered.

“I’m not! It’s good I found out now. I’m never going down that road again and that’s all there is to it!” Britney confidently replied. After a brief thoughtful pause, she mischievously added, “Maybe … I don’t really want a man.”

“Wouldn’t surprise me,” Debbie quietly giggled as she linked arms with her sister.

“Ahhh … sisterly love!” a soft voice emanated from the direction of the aisle.

“JESSICA!” Britney enthused as the two girls turned towards the familiar voice.

“Diane told me you two were going to Gaby’s wedding … but I didn’t think I’d be lucky enough to run into some friendly faces on the way,” Jessica replied. “Your parents come as well?” Their silence spoke volumes. “I’m sorry…”

“It’s all for the better, I guess. Maddy and Gaby don’t need to have their day spoiled,” Debbie allowed. Jessica acknowledged with a nod and a knowing smile.

“As it is … I know they’ll be very glad to see the both of you,” Jessica replied.

“Is Diane on board?” Britney wondered.

“No … Erin, Aidan and her took an earlier flight, but she said we’ll all meet up in London.”

“How come?” Britney wondered.

“When we’re both looking at our tickets the other night … we discovered that there’s only one connecting flight,” Jessica explained.

“Oh...” Britney quietly replied.

“Your husband come?” Debbie asked, looking at Jessica’s wedding band.

“We’re sitting a few rows behind you. Speaking of husbands … I guess I’ve got a few things to catch up on! Congratulations would seem to be in order...” Jessica enthused after she noticed Debbie’s diamond. “Set a date yet?”

“Not yet … Ken’s still got a bit of schooling left.”

“Where are you now?” Jessica asked.

“Seattle … near the university.”

“Oh, sorry! Jessica mentioned as she straightened up to allow a fellow passenger passage down the aisle. “Looks like I’m blocking the aisle.”

“I should really get back to Rob anyway ... but if we don’t get a chance to talk before we land … we’ll meet up when we get off the plane. With a bit o’ luck we’ll find our way to our connecting flight. You guys staying at the Steigenberger Bad Neuenahr?”

“For a couple of nights … then Deb and I are going to travel a bit before going back,” Britney revealed.

“You girls getting there on your own … or is someone meeting you?”

“Someone’s meeting us … probably either Gaby’s or Maddy’s dad. In her last email, Gaby mentioned something about them sitting around feeling useless,” Britney answered.

“After talking with Diane, it sounds like we’re all meeting the same person. Kind of makes even more sense to stay together, doesn’t it?”

“Yeah,” Debbie agreed while Britney nodded her head.

“I guess I should really clear this aisle and get back to Rob … talk to you two, later … bye!” Jessica stated before she returned to her seat.

After dinner and watching a movie, Debbie planned to read for an hour or so, before settling back and trying to get some sleep.

On the other hand, Britney closed her eyes and sat back in her seat, mentally reflecting upon the things that have happened since she first met Maddy and Gaby. Minutes later, she nudged her sister away from her engrossing read.

“Kinda romantic … isn’t it?” Britney quietly asked for no apparent reason.

“What is?” Debbie replied.

“Them ... Maddy and Gaby. I mean … after all they’ve been through ... Drew … Gaby … Maddy … Maddy’s schemes … their break-up … Gaby’s move … and despite all that, love’s always been there … hasn’t it…” Britney reflected. “Now they’re getting married.”

“I know. I doubt that Hollywood could come up with a better storyline,” Debbie softly agreed.

“I think we should drink to their friendship and their happiness!” Britney firmly suggested.

“Good idea!” Moments later, Debbie caught the attention of a passing cabin attendant.

“Miss? Any chance of getting another glass of that wine you served at dinner?”

“For both of you? Certainly … be right back!” the stewardess cheerfully replied.

“Deb? You don’t think Ken didn’t come ‘cuz he really felt like Mom and Dad … do you?” Britney softly asked. Debbie absent-mindedly played with her diamond while pondering her answer.

“One thing you’ve got to realise, sis ... is that not everyone feels like Mom and Dad ... or for that matter, some of the people back home. It’s a totally different atmosphere where Ken and I are now. People are more tolerant. We’ve even got some openly gay friends,” Debbie softly explained.

“It’s a shame Ken didn’t get as far along on his thesis as he hoped … I know he’d love meeting the girls.”

“You like it out there, huh?” Britney longingly inquired.

“Grottoes may be nice to visit now and again … but we’re planning to stay out there,” Debbie confirmed.

“Maybe I should come check it out … you know … post-graduate stuff?” Britney playfully mentioned.

“Anytime, sis … we’ve got room,” Debbie smugly replied.

“Ladies?” The girl’s train of thought was interrupted by the arrival of their wine.

After the flight attendant had poured the wine and left, Debbie turned to her sister and asked, “What should we drink to?”

“How ‘bout this? To Maddy and Gaby … a love re-captured and tamed … may their little bit of heaven … be a place on earth!” Britney quietly toasted. Both girls took a sip from their glass before they put them down.

“That was lovely, sis.” Debbie quietly commented,

“Just saying how I feel about those two,” Britney replied as she finished her wine.

Passing her empty glass over to Debbie, Britney stowed her table and before closing her eyes, turned out her overhead lights. “Think I’ll try to get some sleep. Somehow I think it’s gonna be a long day tomorrow … ‘nite sis.”

“I’m gonna read for a while … but I don’t think I’ll be too far behind you …’nite Brit,” Debbie quietly allowed after she stifled a yawn.

“Oh! … thanks, Miss,” Debbie whispered as a flight attendant came over and collected the empty glasses. It wasn’t too long after that, that she stowed her tray, closed her book and nodded off herself.

What only seemed a short time later, both were gently being woken by one of the cabin crew.

“Excuse me, ladies. Please prepare for landing and make sure your seat belts are fastened. We’re about to arrive at Heathrow.”

“Sorry … what time is it?” Debbie wearily inquired.

“Ten after six in the morning …Greenwich Mean Time.”

“Six-ten?” Debbie echoed, looking at her watch.

“You must still be on Eastern Time.”

“Huh?”

“Your watch … it’s still on Eastern Time. England is five hours ahead.”

“Oooo … thanks!” She sheepishly began to set her watch to the correct time.

May 16, 2013, Heathrow (London, UK)

“Deb! … Brit! Over here!” Jessica called out as she saw them emerging from the boarding tunnel.

“OKAY … now we have about a three hour lay-over to kill. According to the picture signs over there … we just follow them to the shuttle bus that will take us to Terminal 5.”

Thirty minutes later, they were through security and in the departure lounge.

“Got to admit … they’ve got an efficient system going here!” Robert enthused. “Our own airports could take a lesson from these people!”

“At seven in the morning, there’s not a lot of people around … so I’d imagine that’d make a bit of difference,” Britney added.

“Hey guys!”

Both Debbie and Britney swung around when the heard a familiar voice calling out behind them. Erin, Aidan and Diane were just getting off the ‘up’ escalator from the lower level. As the seven converged in the middle of the open area, there were hugs all around.

“We saw you guys downstairs … an’ seein’ how you didn’t see us … we just followed ya,” Aidan admitted.

“Told ya we’d meet in London!” Diane enthused as she addressed Jessica.

“Anyone for breakfast? I dunno about anyone else ... but we’re gonna be here for a spell and I’m starved,” Erin declared.

“I don’t know about the rest of you … but I’m going to find a restroom and freshen up before I do anything!” Jessica firmly stated.

“Good idea,” Diane agreed.

“Well … we’re stuck here until twenty-to-ten ... so I guess we have time,” Rob agreed as he began scanning the information board for restaurants.

“Let’s see … what about this place? ... Huxleys...”

“As long as we can get some real food,” Aidan jokingly mentioned, referring to the usual airline fare. When the group started off towards the eatery, he hung back to walk beside Britney.

“You excited Brit? I’ve nevah been outta the States before!”

“More nervous … if anything,” Britney quietly admitted.

“Yeah … I guess it’s been a long time since we’ve both seen Gabs,” Aidan acknowledged.

“It’s more than that, Aidan. You saw how things were for her when she was in Grottoes … an’ I wasn’t exactly in her good books when she left.”

“You’ve said you two’ve emailed each other quite a few times.”

“I know … but still...” Britney muttered in a hushed voice. “...How will she react when we meet face-to-face?”

Aidan gently grabbed Britney’s arm as he stopped walking, causing her to swing around and face him.

“Brit … I don’t know what you did or think you did … but that’s all in the past. We’re not back in Grade 9 ... things change! If either one of them still held a grudge, do you think they’d invited you to their wedding?”

“You sound like you’ve been talking to Deb. She said the same thing.”

“Well … it’s true!”

(sigh) “I know. I guess I just need to hear it from Gaby.”

“Everything’s gonna be okay … you’ll see all this worrying is for nothing. Now let’s go eat!” With that, Aidan and Britney both ran to catch up to the others as they headed towards the restaurant.

“Okay, people … restrooms are over there … then food!” Robert suggested as they stood outside Huxleys.

Later that morning...

“May I have your attention please? ... United Airlines … flight 9225 is now ready to board … Please have your passports and boarding passes ready ... Thank-you.”

“Sounds familiar,” Debbie commented.

“Different accent,” Aidan dryly put in.

“Must be it ... now c’mon ... that’s us!” Diane enthused. Checking her watch as she rose from her chair in the departure lounge, Diane commented “Nine-thirty … not bad.”

“I thought we were flying United. Why’s the board say ‘Star Alliance-slash-United Airlines’?” Britney wondered as she read the digital read-out identifying the flights, behind the boarding desk.

“I read about it on the flight here. ‘Star Alliance’ is only an operating name. Several airlines that share common routes have formed a partnership of sorts. United and Lufthansa are only two of the airlines involved. It sounds as if they still refer to the flight under the originating carrier,” Robert explained.

“Why do you say that?” Aidan asked.

“...Because, according to the pamphlet ... this part of the flight is operated by Lufthansa,” Robert revealed.

As they walked down the boarding ramp and into the Boeing 737-500, a flight attendant standing just inside the cabin door re-checked their boarding pass and directed each passenger to their assigned seat.

“10a … und b … over the wing to your right.”

He then handed the passes back to Jessica and Robert as they started towards their seats. Debbie and Britney drew 15b and c while across the aisle, Erin, Diane and Aidan had 16d, e and f. Boarding proved to be quick and a check of the watch, showed they were back on schedule as a member of the cabin crew secured the forward cabin door.

“How long’s the flight?” Aidan asked Erin as the found their seats.

“About ninety minutes, hon … barely enough time to get a decent nap in!” Erin jokingly conveyed as she stowed her carry-on in the overhead. “Should be there for lunch, though.”

“Anyone know who’s going to meet us?” someone asked.

“Gaby’s dad!” Britney quickly piped up. “Or … maybe Maddy’s dad.”

“Hope whoever-it-is has a big car,” Aidan jokingly added.

As they taxied out to the runway for departure, Erin wasn’t the only one in their group who settled back to grab as much of their robbed sleep as possible before they arrived in Bonn. Thankfully, they had the next day to combat any jet lag, before the big day.

Taking Aidan’s words to heart, Britney felt like a weight had been lifted from her and that she was looking forward to seeing her two friends again. As she settled in her seat beside her sister, she turned to look out her window at the busy airport while the ‘mule’ backed the 737 out of the gate.

“I wonder how much we’ve all changed…”

“Won’t be long now, sis!” Debbie enthused as she linked arms with her sister.

True to Erin’s words, ninety minutes was hardly time enough to settle down for the flight. To the Walters girls, it seemed mere minutes ago that the airliner left the runway at Heathrow. Now, they all were filling out the mandatory customs forms, in preparation to landing in Bonn.

A gentle bump soon conveyed they were finally in Germany.

“Please remain seated und seatbelts fastened until the plane comes to a complete stop… Ensure that you take all your carry-on und your customs declarations. On behalf of myself, Captain Armbrust und the entire flight crew, I thank you for flying Star Alliance … Bitte bleiben Sie sitzen und angeschnallt bis das Flugzeug am Terminal vollstá¤ndig zum Stillstand gekommen ist. Bitte vergewissern Sie sich, da០sie all Ihr Handgepá¤ck mitnehmen und halten sie Ihre Dokumente bereit. Kapitá¤n Armbrust und Seine Besatzung bedanken sich im Namen von Star Alliance, da០Sie mit uns geflogen sind. Auf Wiedersehen."

May 16, 2013, Flughafen Koln-Bonn (Cologne-Bonn Airport, Germany)

A little less than an hour later, the seven travellers emerged along with their luggage, from immigration and security into the large ‘arrivals hall’ in Terminal 1. All eyes scanned the crowds, looking for anything that hinted that they had found whoever was to meet them.

“Mr. Bond! … Mr. Bond! … Over here!” Britney shouted.

“Where you looking, sis?”

“Over there by that post … beside the guy holding the sign that says ‘Bond-Peters wedding’!” Debbie shifted her gaze to where her sister was pointing.

“Ya always did have good eyes Brit,” Erin commented. “Well? Don’t just stand there, girl … lead on!”

“Hi, Mr. Bond!” the Walters sisters chorused.

“Willkommen in Deutschland, Má¤dchen,” Dave cheerfully replied as they both gave him a quick hug. As the others approached, he also greeted Diane and Erin with a hug then turned to greet Aidan with a handshake.

“Haven’t seen you guys since Atlanta. You’re all looking well,” Dave enthused while addressing Gaby’s former teammates. “Gaby’s overjoyed that you’re all able to make it.”

“Is she here?”

“Unfortunately not, Jess. Both she and Maddy are running around like the proverbial chicken with its’ head cut off … re-checking everything.”

“What about Jules,” Debbie asked.

“Jules and the rest of the wedding party are with them … trying to keep the panic to a minimum and helping the girls out as much as possible,” Dave replied.

“Jen’s made reservations for everyone at a Gasthaus in Bad Neuenahr for dinner tonight. Hopefully being around some friendly faces will calm those two.”

“A bit nervous?” Debbie sarcastically asked.

“You could say that,” Dave answered with a grin.

“Fran here yet?” Jessica inquired.

“The bunch from Warsop arrived earlier this morning and they’re at the hotel. Henrik here, has already picked them up,” Dave answered.

Realizing his omission, he quickly added “I’m terribly sorry … this is Henrik … one of the Team Apollinaris’ invaluable support personnel. He’s kindly volunteered to act as hotel shuttle with the mini-bus. This is our second trip today.”

After everyone greeted Henrik, Jessica took Robert’s hand and led him out from behind the others.

“Henrik’s not the only new face around here,” Jessica playfully mentioned as she approached Dave. “…Dave … this is my husband … Robert Lindsey… Robert … David Bond … he’s Gaby’s father. Her sister Jules, is her Maid of Honour.”

After the introductions, Gaby’s American friends along with their luggage porters followed Dave out of Terminal 1 to the curb to await Henrik’s return with the bus.
 
 
Comments are Greatly Appreciated!

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To Be Continued...
 

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Photo Credit: Licensed royalty free. Provided by PD Photo.org .

 

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Chapter 10
 
(Sat., May 18, 2013 came around at last…)

das Peters’ Haus (the Peters’ house)

“Time to get up, darling! The girls will be here in about an hour,” Carol chirped as she poked her head in Maddy’s room before heading over to the guest room.

“Gaby’s right ... mother’s are way too cheerful in the mornings!” Maddy thought as she pulled up the sheet and rolled onto her side.

“Ally … time to get up, dear … you can use our bathroom … I’ve already put fresh towels out.”

“Thanks Mrs. P,” Ally replied.

“C’mon Maddy … shake a leg … you’ll be late for your own wedding!” Carol encouraged as she walked past her daughter’s open door.

“Mum? … Can I talk to you for a sec?” Maddy called out from her bed.

Carol thought she sounded a bit upset as she entered her daughter’s bedroom.

“Lousy sleep last night ... or nerves?” she softly asked as she sat down on the edge of the bed.

“I don’t think I’ve had a real sleep since we met with Reverend Gotthard ... too many things to worry about.”

“Hmmm ... sounds like nerves ... now … everything will be just fine! Once today is over you can relax.” After a very short pause, she thoughtfully added, “Well … maybe not tonight…”

“MUMMMMM!” Maddy shrieked as she abruptly turned to face her mum with a look of disbelief.

“Oh, calm down. I’m not that old that I can’t remember what it was like,” Carol chuckled as she put her arms around her daughter and pulled her close.

“Can I pass along some advice, though … mother to daughter?”

“Please?” Maddy whispered.

“I know how much you two love each other … but … there’ll be times you will fight, believe me ... and when that happens … always remember something my mum told me on my wedding day.”

“What’s that?” Maddy weakly asked.

“Never go to bed mad at each other.”

“Whattya mean?”

“Talk out all your problems before going to sleep. If you sleep on them and let things fester, they’ll be a much bigger problem in the morning.”

“I won’t let that happen … I promise,” Maddy softly replied. “I almost lost her once because I didn’t talk to her.”

“Go have your shower, darling ... you’ll feel better.”

Carol kissed Maddy on the forehead before sending her off. As she headed downstairs, she felt a couple of tears run down her cheek.

Just as Maddy was starting to enjoy the warmth of the water cascading over her, she heard the bathroom door suddenly burst open.

“Mum?”

“Guten Morgen Madeline!” Kat cheerfully yelled over the sound of the water as she peeked behind the shower curtain.

“Scheiße! Fer Christsake, Kat! Ya wanna give me a bloody heart attack?” Maddy popped her head out from behind the shower curtain at a slightly drowned Kat and stared at her dripping hair.

“Why are you wet, Fräulein?” Maddy sarcastically wondered.

Kat looked at her with an exaggerated pout and then informed her, “Your mama told me to tell you she ist making us some breakfast … so get out!”

“I have to rinse off, first!”

After turning off the water, Maddy pulled back the curtain to get out and found Kat standing there with a silly grin and a large opened bath towel. When she stepped out of the tub, she noticed the matching towel was piled in a heap by Kat’s feet and her hair was in desperate need of a good brushing.

“Danke ... tell mum I’ll be down in ten ... but brush out that hair, first.”

“Ja.” After Maddy passed her a brush, Kat quickly sorted out her damp hair and went to deliver her message to Carol.

The same time Kat went downstairs, Maddy ran to her room to quickly get ready for the morning. Looking in her drawers, she hurriedly selected some underwear then threw on some jeans, her UMIST sweatshirt and trainers before going downstairs.

When she entered the kitchen, she noticed Ally and Carol were there, but someone was missing.

“Morning, Ally … where’s Kat?”

“Gone to get the door,” Carol replied without looking at her daughter. Turning around, she couldn’t help but notice Maddy’s extremely casual appearance.

“You’re not planning to go get your hair done looking like that are you? ... And your hair’s a mess.”

“Mummm. We’re going to a beauty salon. Who cares what I wear as long as I don’t wear it walking down the aisle?” Maddy cheerfully replied. “Besides, it’s comfortable...”

“I thought I’m supposed to be the nervous one today,” Maddy joked.

“Well … what do you expect? I’ve never had a daughter get married before.”

“I hope you’re not too nervous. You do remember your line, don’t you?” Maddy playfully asked, referring to her mum’s part in the wedding.

“I think so,” Carol replied with a quiet chuckle.

Maddy threw her arms around her mum’s neck and tightly held on. Before releasing her, she whispered in her ear “I love you, Mum.”

As Maddy gave her mum a kiss on the cheek, Kat entered the kitchen with the three remaining bridesmaids.

“Kat … take the girls up to the guest room and have them leave their things there until it’s time to change,” Carol cheerfully suggested.

“Ja, Frau Peters. C’mon guys!”

“Don’t take all day. Mum’s got breakfast ready!”

“Nervous, Mad?” Ann asked as they returned to the kitchen, moments later.

“I wasn’t until you mentioned it,” Maddy replied with a bit of a chuckle.

Later, as the girls finished their light breakfast, Carol had them go into the lounge to await their ride to the salon.

“You guys go ahead. I want to talk to Ally for a minute…” When they were alone in the kitchen, she turned her attention to her friend.

“Hey, I’m sorry. I really wanted to talk with you yesterday, but you know what things were like. Anyway … what’s with you and Em? You okay being paired with her in the wedding procession?”

“Why?”

“No reason, really. It’s just that you looked … ‘down’ … when you were walking with her at the rehearsal. Would you rather go with one of the other girls? I could switch your place in the procession if you’d like.”

“It’s not that,” Ally quietly stated.

“Then what is it?”

“I dunno … me, I guess,” Ally almost whispered, as she cast her eyes to the floor.

“After what the two of you pulled at Gabs’ birthday, I didn’t want to ever talk to Rhod again. His whole attitude was becoming too prissy an’ arrogant … like Em’s … and I definitely didn’t want anything to do with her!”

“But…” Maddy firmly prompted.

“When you told me that Gaby was coming to your graduation from Warsop ... we sorta called a ‘cease fire’ between us so we could be there for you two. By the end of the weekend ... well ... then when I went off to university … we started to hang out with each other if I was home ... but...”

“Something changed … didn’t it?” Maddy quietly asked.

“Besides her surgery?” Ally joked.

“You know wot I mean...” Maddy softly replied.

“When I got that job in London ... we still didn’t see much of each other ... ‘cept the odd weekend I was home. Last year was the most we’ve been together … and that was mainly because of you and Gabs … but…”

“But what?”

“She’s changed, Mad ... she’s not the same Em that was in Virginia. She’s much more comfortable with herself … more considerate … thoughtful … and … fun … like Rhod was…”

“Go on…”

“When we’re together … I just feel good.”

“Like Rhod?”

“We were only kids then. No … it’s much more than that. I really think I’ve fallen in love with her,” Ally softly confessed.
“Are you sure?” Maddy slowly asked.

“I’ve had boyfriends, Mad ... but none have made me feel like this. If you want to be with a person so much that you can’t get them out of your mind when you’re not with them ... isn’t that love?”

“Have you told her?”

“No … I never thought about having a relationship with another girl…”

“Until Em…” Maddy quietly completed Ally’s thought.

“Maaad? What do I do? All I know is that I want to be with her!”

As she looked into Maddy’s eyes, she softly added, “When I’m around her ... I just feel so ... so...”

“I know that feeling very well,” Maddy softly replied in a soothing voice.

“Mad-eee ... tell me...” Ally quietly whined.

“Okay. Tell her how you feel ... today ... and take it from there. You already know how she feels about you … so that kinda cancels out any question of her making a scene and walking away … doesn’t it?” Maddy replied with a knowing smirk.

“Just like that?” Ally asked.

“Just like that...” Maddy droned.

“What if she makes a scene? I don’t want to ruin your day...”

“Trust me ... she won’t.”

“You sure?”

“Ally!” Maddy hissed out of mock frustration as she tried hard to keep a serious expression on her face.

“Okay ... okay ... today...” Ally quickly conceded.

“Ironic isn’t it? I seem to remember that it wasn’t too long ago that I was the one convincing a good friend to listen to her heart…” Her voice faded as she closed her wet eyes and hugged Maddy.

“Send us an invite,” Maddy softly suggested as she continued to hold her friend.

(sigh) “Guess we should join the others … thanks, Mad…” Ally whispered as they parted.

Soon after they joined the others in the lounge, John answered the door and informed the girls their ride to the salon was waiting outside.

“What about the flowers for the girl’s hair ... and your ‘feather?” Carol asked her daughter as they were leaving.

“Gabs said to put that stuff in after we get dressed or else they’ll get ruined,” Maddy stated as she took her mum’s arm and started out the door.

“Jen and I figure we’ll be back around noon, so enjoy the quiet while you can,” Carol told John as she kissed him good-bye.

“Oh … and don’t forget that you and Dave have to deliver the girl’s bouquets to the church ... this morning.”

das Bonds’ Haus (the Bonds’ house)

“Rise and shine, sis…” Jules sweetly called out as she entered Gaby’s room, only to find it empty.

“GABEEE … where are you?” Panic tinged her voice as she quickly turned around and called out for her sister.

“She’ll be back shortly,” Dave stated as he walked past the bedroom door. That was enough to set Jules off.

“Back? Where’d she go? She’s supposed to stay here … not go off on some unknown expedition whenever she gets an urge! What’m I supposed to do if she’s late for her hair appointment? Phone up Maddy an’ tell her Gabs ran off?”

“Sorry, Petal … It was my fault. I should’ve told you when they left … but I thought you could use the extra sleep.”

Dave put his arms around Jules to calm her down.

“Your mum and sister went out for a ride a couple of hours ago. You know how it helps her when she gets a bit overwhelmed … and you also know your mum’ll make very sure they’re back in plenty of time.”

“But why today of all days? She’s not supposed to take off like that ... not on her wedding day. She could’ve at least told me last night she was gonna do this,” mumbled a distraught Jules. “What if they have an accident or get a flat?”

“I don’t think she knew or she certainly would’ve told you. Anyway ... they’re both very careful … and they both have their mobiles. If they run into any problems they’ll call me and I’ll pick them up. Now try to calm down and relax.”

“Okay … I’ll try. At least I can shower without her pestering me,” Jules playfully claimed as she headed off to get ready for her shower.

“Is Em up?”

“She’s using our shower … should be out shortly. I told her your mother will need it as soon as they come back,” Dave replied.

He then went downstairs to the kitchen to start their breakfast and to await the return of his other two girls.

A short time later Em walked into the kitchen and at Dave’s invitation began to make herself a tea. Not long after she sat down at the table, Dave had to get up to answer the door.

“Guten Morgen, Kristen … girls … c’mon in. Jules is in the shower … Em’s in the kitchen and Gaby and Jen should be back shortly.”

“Kristen … take the girls and put your things in the guest room with Em’s stuff … then come back and grab some breakfast,” Dave offered.

At the same time they were going upstairs, he heard his wife and daughter come through the back door.

“Good ride?” Dave asked when he saw the two women heading for the stairs.

“In more ways than one!” Jenny replied for both of them.

As mother and daughter continued upstairs to get cleaned up, Jules was visibly relieved as they passed her in the hall. Following a quick shower, Gaby joined the rest of her bridal party in the kitchen for a tea and a light breakfast. Jenny joined them a few minutes later.

“Where’d you go, luv?” Dave asked his wife once she sat down.

“Altenahr and back.”

“That took over two hours? That’s only a few minutes down the road.”

“Gaby needed some time alone … with her mother.”

Later, when he’d just finished doing up the breakfast dishes, Dave went to answer a knock at the door.

“Guten Morgen … Herr Bond?”

“Ein Moment bitte … Limo’s here!” The chauffer returned to the limousine to await the arrival of his passengers. “Everyone ready?”

“Sis? It’s not too late to back out. You really want to do this?” Jules kept a serious face as they all got up to leave.

“An’ you’re only asking me now?“ Gaby joked.

“Gabs … got your ‘feather?” Kristen asked.

“I’m leaving it here. It’ll be better if I put it in myself after I’m dressed.”

“What about the flowers for our hair?” Nina questioned.

“Do them after you’re dressed or you’ll ruin them.”

As the six ladies filed past Dave and out the front door, Jenny gave him a peck on the cheek with some final instructions.

“Relax and try to stay out of trouble. We’ll be back by noon-ish … and make sure you take the flowers to the church before we get back … okay?”

der Schönheitssalon (the beauty salon)

A short time after the ladies departed the Bond and Peter residences, both limousines arrived together in front of the beauty salon.

Once everyone got out and gathered in front of the shop, they encountered a locked door and a sign in the window with the words “Heute geschlossen” (closed today).

“Gabi! They’re clos… never mind…” Nina started to read the sign in the window before it dawned on her.

Kat knocked on the door. After one of the staff pulled the small door curtain to one side for a look, she then opened the door.

“Der Bond-Peters Hochzeit?”

“Ja,” Jenny replied.

“What’d she say?” Em whispered to Gaby as the twelve women entered the salon.

“She asked if we’re the Bond-Peters wedding,” Gaby quietly answered.

Elsa, the owner of the salon, came over and apologized for the sign and the locked door but with a wedding party of fourteen she decided it would be better to close for the morning than to try to accommodate other customers.

Seeing a couple of blank looks and recalling overhearing bits of English conversation, Elsa asked Brenda, “You are all English?”

“Most of us are … but only four girls don’t speak any German,” Jenny quickly explained.

“Then we speak English … ja? Now … who ist die Braut … erm ... bride? I do her first,” Elsa announced.

“We are!” Maddy and Gaby chorused while simultaneously pointing at each other.

“Ach … ja! You did tell me zwei Bräute when you phoned. When you get old … das memory sometimes ist not so good. Now, how do you want the hair, again?”

“Everybody’s basically the same … just a wash and trim any split ends without changing the length too much. We’d like it kept long and straight. Oh, yeah ... highlights for everyone! I want my hair parted in the middle ... but Mad an’ I’ve told the others they can have it parted how they like,” Gaby outlined.

“Oh! Don’t forget ... the manicures ... but only apply a clear coat … no colour ... and of course, facials ... and we’d like the make-up to be kept ‘natural’ and understated,” Maddy added.

Elsa had half the girls take a chair while her staff started to work their magic. The others just had to wait their turn.

“No headpieces?” Elsa inquired after surveying around the room.

“It’ll be easier if Mad an’ I put our ‘feathers in ourselves … after we’re dressed,” Gaby casually replied.

“Feathers? Sounds interesting. You must bring some pictures around later,” remarked a perplexed Elsa.

Three hours later, they all exited the salon, only to find the limousines and a small crowd of curious onlookers, waiting for them.

“This must look really weird to these people.” Judith commented.

“Why?” asked Em.

Judith explained, “Well … twelve women…”

“Fourteen if you include der mamas...” Nina playfully pointed out.

Judith quickly glanced at Nina while she resumed her explanation, “I stand corrected … fourteen beautiful women … und two stretched limos … not exactly a common sight in this town.”

Gaby added, “Guys! If you think we have a crowd looking at us now … wait until after the wedding when we all go out the front of the church.”

“Ja...” agreed Kat. Seeing puzzled expressions on the faces of Mfawny and Ally, Gaby stepped in with the explanation.

“We’ll literally be the centre of attraction in a busy town square ... on a Saturday afternoon.”

“Whaddya mean, ‘centre of attraction’?” Em cautiously asked.

“Weddings always draw really big crowds ‘round here...” Jules grinned.

“Yeah … but we won’t have to worry if you and Maddy decide to wear those necklines as low as you did at the fittings…” Kristen playfully shot back while making a run for her limo.

zurück am Peters’ Haus (back at the Peters’ house)

“Ah … you’re back! … Lunch is waiting … it’s going to be a while before the reception.”

Later while John cleared the table and started to wash up, the girls quickly disappeared upstairs to get ready.

“What’s the rush? …You girls have plenty of time,” John stated.

“No we don’t ... trust me!” Maddy called out as she ran upstairs. John just shook his head and went back to the task at hand.

Kat and the other girls headed for the guest room to get changed, while Maddy went to her room.

“Give me a few moments to get dressed and I’ll be in to help you, ja?” Kat mentioned to Maddy as they parted company.

A short time later, Kat was dressed with help from one of the other girls and knocking on Maddy’s closed bedroom door. When she got no immediate answer, she slowly opened the door and peaked in.

“You decent?”

“No … but you’re gonna come in anyway, aren’tcha?”

“Sex-eee! … You look like you stepped out of one of those Victoria Secrets thingies!“ Kat enthused as she entered the room and quickly closed the door behind her.

“Like it? That’s for when we get changed,” Maddy mentioned as she removed the lace-trimmed, black push-up bra.

“I’m sure Gabi will,” Kat suggestively replied as her friend stood in front of her, only wearing her panties. Maddy blushed a vivid crimson as she tried to change the subject.

“Pretty ‘hot’ yourself, kid! You look really sexy … in a sixteenth century kinda way. I bet when he sees you … poor Kurt won’t know if he’s coming or going.”

“You think so?” Kat blushed at Maddy’s comments.

“Trust me...” Maddy replied with a mischievous grin. Again changing the subject, she nodded to Kat’s hairpiece. “I love the flower in your hair.”

“Danke.”

“Did you put it in?”

“Ja … mit some help from Cathy. I don’t think it’ll come loose. She wove it in pretty gut.”

“Tell Cathy to make sure all the girls have their flowers firmly secured in their hair … and make sure it’s above their right ear.” Kat left the room to pass the message along.

After she returned from checking on the others, Kat resumed helping Maddy to get ready. She paid particular attention not to muss her friend’s hair as she slipped her chemise over her head.

“Don’t worry about it, Kat. I already mussed it up when I took off my sweatshirt. A quick run-through with the brush and it’s as good as new.”

Between the two of them, it didn’t take as long as they initially thought it would to get her looking as desirable as she did at the fittings. Once she was set, Maddy went and sat on the bench at the end of her bed.

Taking the rawhide strip in her fingers, she proceeded to fold the length in half and then gathering a few strands of her hair on the left side of her head above the ear, she braided a short length of the rawhide into the lock of hair, leaving the majority of the strip to hang free. Next, she slipped the feather’s quill up through the braid so the feather appeared to hang freely down the side of the head. She found the process was actually quite simple, once she had a few lessons from Gaby.

“Now where’s that shield? Have you seen it Kat?” Maddy was furiously looking all around.

“Calm down Mad … here it is!” Kat quietly replied as she reached down and plucked it from Maddy’s lap before handing it to her.

Where does it go?” Kat inquired.

“It covers where the quill is pushed through the braided rawhide,” Maddy explained. “...Gives it a more finished look.”

“I haff never seen Gabs wear one.”

“They’re worn mainly for formal and ceremonial occasions.”

“Like a wedding...”

“Uh huh.”

“Does the design on the shield mean anything?”

“Dunno. I might be able to find out later … if you’re really interested.”

Once it was clipped in place, Maddy looked much more relaxed. Next, Kat passed her the dream-catcher earrings. Finally Maddy carefully gathered her hair and held it up while Kat put the choker around her neck and fastened it at the back.

“I’ve haff not seen that kind of choker before. Reminds me of a segmented toy,” Kat thoughtfully contemplated. “...But it looks lovely on you.”

“Danke ... Gaby calls it a four-strand ‘boned’ choker. I like this polished stone at the front ... it really sets it off,” Maddy commented as she posed in front of her dresser mirror.

A final brush to her hair and Kat declared Maddy was ready to go.

“Think Gaby will like?” Maddy wondered as she posed for her Maid of Honour.

“Ja … I know she will.”

In a sudden moment of panic, Maddy threw open her bedroom door as she remembered the flowers.

“Mummmm! Did you deliver my rose and the bouquets to the church ... or are they still here?” Maddy called out.

“Relax … your dad took them all over this morning while we were at the salon.” Carol replied in a calming tone, as she reached Maddy’s door.

She stood in the doorway staring at her daughter for several moments, then after a deep sigh, embraced her daughter in a tight hug.

“You look absolutely beautiful, dear,” Carol whispered in Maddy’s ear. “Love the feather.”

“Thanks, Mum. You look lovely yourself,” Maddy replied and then motioned to the corner of her dresser.

“Do me a favour and take that bag downstairs with you? It’s the gifts for the girls.”

“Okay, dear. Oh! … I almost forgot … your Gran’s charm bracelet. It even has a blue stone in it,” Carol pointed out. As Maddy held out her wrist, her mum let out a sigh of relief.

“There … you’re all ready!”

“I thought Gran was coming to the house.”

“She said there’d be enough confusion around here and that she’d meet us at the church.”

“You ready, luv?” Carol called out to John as she grabbed the bag and started towards the door.

“Waiting for you down here!” John called up the stairs.

Meanwhile Kat had checked on the progress of the other girls and ushered those who were ready, downstairs.

Finally, Ann joined the others and as all gathered at the base of the stairs, they watched in silence as Maddy slowly descended the staircase.

When she stepped off the bottom step, Carol handed her the bag. Reaching inside, Maddy pulled out a number of boxes and laid them on the small table by the stairs.

“Now, the finishing touches.”

“For my Maid of Honour and the Mother-of-the-bride,” Maddy said with a certain air of ‘pomp and circumstance’. “These are for today.”

She produced a pair of earrings and a ‘bone’ choker identical to hers, for both Kat and her mum. After both ladies put on the earrings, Maddy assisted them with their chokers.

“There! Now you got your own, Kat...” she added with a wide grin.

Then turning to her attendants, “Und für meine Brautjunfern…”

Maddy handed each bridesmaid a box containing a pair of earrings identical to hers, then stood back and watched as they put them in.

“You two really thought this ‘look’ out, didn’t you?” Carol remarked while admiring Maddy and her attendants.

Before they left for the waiting limo, John took several photos of his daughter and her bridal party.

“Mark this day well dear ... you’ll never see your father looking so handsome again,” Carol playful commented, as she tightly clutched one of John’s arms.

The time to leave for the church came and the bridal party departed in their limousine while John and Carol followed in their own car. Like the rest of the guests, they would park in one of the town’s public lots and walk to the church, while the girls got door-to-door service.

zurück am Bonds' Haus (back at the Bonds’ house)

As the girls started to file through the front door, Dave came out from the kitchen.

“You ladies get something to eat. We don’t need anyone passing out because of an empty, nervous stomach … do we … Gaby?”

A few moments later, he’d served a light lunch to the six ladies at the kitchen table.

After all had eaten and relaxed for a very few minutes, they headed upstairs to get ready, Gaby and Jules to their own rooms and everyone else to the guest room.

“You coming to get ready, luv?” Jenny asked, as she was about to leave the kitchen.

“Takes you longer … go ahead. I’ll be right up in a few minutes, after I wash up here,” Dave replied.

“Em? You give me a hand so I can get in and help Gaby?” Jules asked as Em started to go with the rest of the girls.

“I’ll help you after you finish mit Jules,” Nina mentioned as Em started to follow Gaby’s sister.

When she entered Jules’ bedroom, she found Jules stripped down to her panties and pantyhose and just about to lower her chemise over her head.

“Wait a minute, Jules! Let me help … don’t want to muss your hair if we can help it.”

“You sound like a hairdresser.”

“I am … remember? Now let’s get your shoulders laced up and then we can get you into your dress.”

“Em? I know we haven’t seen each other since back then … but I just wanted you to know that I’m glad you and Gaby are friends again … and if she can forgive you for what you did … so can I.”

Em tearfully accepted the offered hug. After she dabbed her eyes, she laced Jules into her dress.

“How’s that?”

“Think the bodice could be a little tighter.”

“Breathe in … and … uuuuuuh! How’s that?”

“Perfect! You really have to wonder how women dressed themselves back then.”

“Thankfully, we don’t need to worry about that. Now just let me fix the hair…”

After a quick brush of Jules’ hair, Em secured the wild flower above her left ear and then stood back to let Jules admire her work.

“That’s really nice, Em … seems like it’s going to stay, too … thanks! Last thing I need is to have it fall out while walking up the aisle.”

Following a short awkward silence, Jules looked at Gaby’s long-time friend.

“Em? Are you really happier now?”

“Yes,” Em softly answered as Jules embraced her.

“Sorry I was such a bitch back in Warsop … but…” Jules whispered.

“You were protecting your sister … I know … and I wasn’t exactly the best of ‘mates’, either…”

“Either way … I’m sorry I was mean towards you.”

“Thank you … I’m just sorry it even happened.”

“Well … c’mon … Gabs’ going to start wondering what’s happened to us. When you get back … you wanna make sure all the girls have their flower in their hair … above their left ear?”

Following a last minute check of the make-up, Jules went across the hall to help her sister.

“Ready for me, sis?” Jules asked as she peaked around the door. As she walked in, Gaby was stepping into her crinoline while just wearing panties, nylons and a suspender belt. She then picked up her chemise off the bed and held it against herself while looking in her full-length mirror.

“Sexy!” Jules seductively offered.

“I know wot ya mean!” Gaby sarcastically enthused. That got the two sisters giggling and eased some, but not all, of the nervous tension.

With her sister’s help, Gaby carefully slipped the chemise over her head and as she shook it out to let it fall into place, she looked up at her sister.

“Just remember how beautiful you looked in your dress,” Jules encouraged.

“I could really use another ride!”

“You’ve got a wedding to get through, first … sister o’ mine! Now stand still and let me tie you up!”

“Sis ... do you really like your dress or were you just being polite at the fitting?”

“I really like it. I think it’s comfortable and something I can actually see wearing again. As far as I’m concerned, you guys had a great idea when you decided to go with these dresses!” Jules slowly twirled around for her sister’s inspection.

She smugly continued as she cupped her breasts, “Ye old ‘push-up’ has nothing on the laced bodice … except comfort.”

“You’ll get used to it,” Gaby replied with a straight face.

Jules’s smug look changed to a devilish grin as she retrieved her sister’s dress from the closet. “Glad you feel that way … your turn, sis.”

After tying the wrist drawstrings on Gaby’s chemise, Jules lowered the dress over her sister’s head. Once she smoothed down the skirt, Jules tightly laced the bodice.

“How’s that feel?”

“Alright.”

When adjusting the drawstring for Gaby’s neckline, Jules paid particular attention in helping her achieve that seductive off-the-shoulder look, just leaving a glimpse of cleavage for Maddy. Finally, she tied off the shoulders of her sister’s dress.

Inspecting her efforts, all Jules could manage to get out before choking up was, ”Sis…”

Gaby reached for and gently squeezed Jules’ hand. “This isn’t the time for tears, okay? You’ll get me going an’ Ros put a lot of work into this make-up! Now … shall we continue?”

Jules managed to nod her head in reply. Gaby turned around and held the back of her hair up as Jules fastened the beaded choker around her sister’s neck.

“Something ‘borrowed’ … this is Mum’s … it’s the bracelet she wore when she an’ Dad were married,” Jules commented as she fastened it onto Gaby’s wrist.

“We don’t have anything blue … do we?” Jules asked.

“All taken care of,” Gaby replied while playfully patting her butt as she sat down on her bed facing her dresser mirror.

“Maybe it might be better if you do it, Gabs,” Jules cautioned as she held the rawhide string and Nighthawk feather that would be her sister’s headpiece.

As she looked on, Gaby grabbed a few strands of hair above her left ear and quickly braided the rawhide strip into the hair. Next, she inserted the quill of the feather into the top of the braid and clipped the decorative ‘shield’ in place.

“You did that so fast … and without a mirror!” Jules exclaimed in amazement.

“I find it’s actually easier not to use the mirror.”

She then put on her ‘feather’ earrings and with a final check in front of the mirror, turned to her sister.

“Looks good…” Jules declared. “Ready?”

As Gaby turned towards the closed bedroom door, Jules reminded her, “Your shoes?”

She took Gaby’s pumps off the bed and then continuing to play the role of a Lady-in-Waiting, knelt down to put them on her sister’s feet.

“You keep forgetting ‘em, m’lady…”

With her shoes on, Jules looked at her sister and softly proclaimed, “Now … it’s time!”

“Love you, sis…” Gaby whispered in Jules’ ear as they embraced each other in a sisterly hug. “Now, let’s go before I do something stupid ... like start crying.”

On the way to the stairs, the two sisters met Mfawny as she came out of the guest room and while Jules continued on downstairs, Gaby gave her long-time friend a long hug.

“It’s hard to believe this pretty young thing in front of me, was a shy, geeky lad … you look absolutely lovely, Em...” Gaby softly conveyed while holding her at arm’s length.

“Thanks, Gabs.”

“One of these days … you’ll be walking down that aisle, ya know!”

“I doubt it. No matter who I’m with, I always seem to end up thinking about Ally … but…” Em’s fading response was quiet and weak.

“I’ve a strong feeling things will work out between you two. Give it time,” Gaby quietly comforted her childhood friend.

As Em threatened to tear up, she broke the hug and told Gaby, “You better let me go down first. You know … your Grande entrance an’ all.”

With that, she turned to go down the staircase leaving Gaby alone at the top, ready to make her debut as the beautiful bride.

With everyone waiting at the bottom of the stairs, she lifted her skirt with one hand and with the other hand on the banister, slowly and cautiously started down.

As she stepped off the bottom step, Jules handed her the bag that she had brought back from Canada.

“Thanks.”

Gaby then led her parents and her attendants into the lounge where she placed the bag on an end table by the couch. Reaching in, she pulled out two of the larger boxes.

“Before you ask … these are to be worn now. For Jules and Mum...”

Gaby handed both of them, a pair of earrings and a choker identical to hers. After they put in the earrings, she helped them with their chokers.

“What does dad think of your hair?” Gaby whispered in her mum’s ear as she fastened her choker for her.

“He won’t let me cut it, now…” Jenny playfully whispered back.

“I don’t blame him,” Gaby softly hissed while remaining close behind her.

“Thank you…”

“An’ for my girls.”

Turning to her attendants, Gaby handed each of her bridesmaids, a small box containing a pair of feathered earrings identical to her own.

As the girls opened them, a chorus of thank-you’s rang out and they all took a few minutes to admire each other as they put them in.

“See? There was a reason I told you guys ‘no earrings’.”

“Let me get a few quick shots … before you girls get in the limo.” Dave requested.

After several photos and a long hug from Gaby, Dave assisted each girl into the limousine and then watched them as they departed for the church. He went around to the passenger side of their own car and helped Jenny to get in, before following the girls to the church.
 
 
Comments are Greatly Appreciated!

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To Be Continued...
 

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Viewing Note: This story should be viewed with the Edwardian Script ITC font installed on your Windows platform in the c:/Windows/Fonts directory. Microsoft Word installs this font automatically.

Photo Credit: Licensed royalty free. Provided by PD Photo.org .

 

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Chapter 11
 
 
Look into my eyes - you will see
What you mean to me
Search your heart - search your soul
And when you find me there you'll search no more

Don't tell me it's not worth tryin' for
You can't tell me it's not worth dyin' for
You know it's true
Everything I do - I do it for you

Look into your heart - you will find
There's nothin' there to hide
Take me as I am - take my life
I would give it all - I would sacrifice

Don't tell me it's not worth fightin' for
I can't help it - there's nothin' I want more
Ya know it's true
Everything I do - I do it for you

There's no love - like your love
And no other - could give more love
There's nowhere - unless you're there
All the time - all the way yeah

(background quote) To your heart baby

Oh - you can't tell me it's not worth tryin' for
I can't help it - there's nothin' I want more
Ya I would fight for you - I'd lie for you
Walk the wire for you - ya I'd die for you

Ya know it's true
Everything I do - awww - I do it for you

… Bryan Adams Everything I Do (I Do For You)

Sat., May 18, 2013 - the ‘Town Church’…

About a half hour prior to the ceremony, the two limousines pulled up to the ‘South Door’ of the church. As the chauffeurs assisted the girls out of each limousine, they assembled in the bright sunshine, on the narrow strip of lawn that ran alongside of the church.

A few minutes later, they were joined by both sets of parents and following some pre-wedding pleasantries, they entered the vestibule of the church where they were directed to a larger room to await Reverend Gotthard.

Maddy, her parents and rest of her bridal party were eventually escorted by the minister through back halls and into a room at the front of the church directly opposite the one they left, still occupied by Gaby and her people. The plan was to have each bridal party enter from the opposite side of the church, when it came their time to walk up the center aisle.

As the hour approached, the invited guests began to make their way across the busy town square and filter through the opened main doors of the ‘Town Church’. The local populace that happened to be milling around that day had guessed a wedding was about to occur from the way people were dressed, but they also noticed things were a bit unusual.

In Bad Neuenahr, a town that was home to a pro cycling team, a few nationally recognized faces on the town streets was not unusual.
What was unusual was the number of well-known faces that were headed for the church.

Once inside, the guest’s were instructed to fill in the seats where ever they wanted, as there was no traditional seating plan.

At the appointed time, the Church doors were closed and Reverend Gotthard walked up the center aisle towards the back of the church, to take up her position in front of the invited guests. As she held her prayer book against her chest, she addressed the assembled friends.

“Guten Tag, Damen und Herren … err … sorry… Gut afternoon … ladies und gentlemen.” Scanning the assembled guests, she carried on in almost flawless English.

“Before we begin … I’d like to take a few moments to explain what you’re about to witness. Several times over the last year, I haff talked to both Maddy und Gaby. During that time, I like to think that I haff come to know them ... maybe not well enough to be called ‘best friends’ ... but I think ... well enough for me begin to understand the depths of their genuine love for each other.”

She lowered her eyes to her prayer book as if in deep though and after a few seconds of silence, she raised them again to look out among the gathered.

“At some point during our talks, they asked if they could make some changes to the Church’s standard wedding ceremony. Naturally, Rev. Albrecht und myself had to hear what they were asking before we could even consider granting their requests. To make a long story short, I feel it ist fair to say … with all the thought they had put into this … they haff done what they wanted to do … make it their own.”

The minister briefly paused again before continuing.

“The girl’s haff informed me that everyone here either speaks English as a first language or ist reasonably fluent und since not all here speak German … the majority of the ceremony will be conducted in English.”

“However, while it ist true both of the families are English ... they are quite fluent in German. So, keeping that in mind … I haff agreed with the girls, to make this a bilingual service ... of sorts. Parts of this service will be performed in both languages. If I ask the same question to both girls … they haff decided that Maddy or her parents will respond in English … while Gabi or her parents will respond in German.”

Following another brief pause, she continued to explain the changes the girls requested.

“You’ll notice that there ist no ‘groom figure’ standing here before me. Instead … there will be two brides und two bridal parties … separately walking down the aisle … each bride escorted by both her parents.”

“Also … there will be no traditional Wedding March. Both girls have elected to walk down the aisle to a single selection of recorded music by Bryan Adams, entitled “Everything I do, I do for you”. I understand the piece has great sentimental significance for the girl’s und after listening to it last night during rehearsal … I can see why.”

“I invite everyone gathered here to pay attention to the lyrics as the girls walk up the aisle. It almost sounds as if it was written for them.”

“Perhaps the most striking change requested by the girls … ist what will occur once both brides have reached the front. As the vocals end … the instrumental portion will fade to serve as the background for one last symbolic kiss … the final one between Fräulein Madeline Peters … und Fräulein Gabrielle Bond.”

Pausing to look over the faces of the guests, she continued.

“Although each bride’s attendants will carry the small traditional bouquets of wild flowers … each bride will only carry a single, silk rose. The symbolism of this rose will be made evident as the ceremony unfolds.”

“Finally … the girls have combined their thoughts und written their own vows. When called upon ... Maddy will say hers in English und ... Gabi will repeat that same vow … in German.”

Shortly after she concluded her remarks, the piano intro to the Bryan Adam’s tune began and all eyes turned to the back of the church. *

As the lyrics of the first verse began Mfawny appeared, nervously holding her bouquet in front of her. After a very short pause, she slowly began walking up the aisle, in time to the music.

With each girl separated by a few paces, she was followed in turn by Nina, Judith, Kristen and then Jules.

Finally, Gaby made her appearance, holding her rose in both hands and escorted by Jenny on her left and Dave on her right. As she walked past the assembled guests, she nervously scanned the pews searching for her friends from Virginia and Warsop.

As they reached the back of the church, the girls turned to their right and walked to their places. Almost as soon as Gaby arrived and stood beside Jules, she joined the rest of her attendants and turned to look back. Like everyone else, they wanted to catch that first glimpse of Maddy walking up the aisle.

“Any time now, sis…” Jules leaned forward and whispered into Gaby’s ear. “You okay?”

“Nerves,” Gaby quietly admitted.

“I’ve heard that’s normal … you’ll be fine … just take a few deep breaths and relax,” Jules replied in a quiet, yet concerned tone.

Gaby’s heart started to race in anticipation as she saw Ally slowly walking up the centre aisle. Finally she saw Kat turn by the last pew and begin her slow, calculated walk towards the back of the church. She was followed a few moments later by Maddy carrying her single rose and escorted by her parents, with John on her left and Carol on her right.

At the end of that walk her parents fell back, leaving her to take that one last step and stand opposite Gaby in front of the minister. A few words were exchanged between the three of them before the girls each turned to hand their rose to their respective ‘Maid of Honour’.

Maddy privately vowed since it was the ‘last kiss’, she was going to make the best of it. With the music playing softly in the background, she slowly embraced Gaby and tenderly, but passionately kissed her on the lips. They parted after a few moments but continued to hold each other.

“I’ll never stop loving you!” Maddy whispered.

Gaby unexpectedly pulled her bride closer and gently returned her kiss. This time when they parted, the music had faded and they continued with the ceremony as if nothing unplanned happened.

Both girls retrieved their rose from their respective ‘Maid of Honour’ and then turned to face Reverend Gotthard.

As she silently offered the open prayer book to both girls, each lightly kissed her flower and with the bloom facing towards themselves, placed it like a bookmark between the opened pages. Having done so, the girls once again faced each other, reached out and joined hands.

“Dearly beloved … we are gathered here today … to witness the union of Fräulein Madeline … Elizabeth … Peters … und Fräulein Gabrielle … Drew … Bond … in holy marriage.”

She briefly paused, then followed with the declaration, “If any one here can show just cause why these two should not be joined … speak now or forever hold your peace.”

Switching to German, she repeated the question. "Wenn jeder hier gerechte Sache nachweisen kann, warum diese beiden nicht verknüpft werden sollen ... jetzt sprechen oder für immer schweigen."

Reverend Gotthard paused and upon hearing only silence, let out an almost inaudible “sehr gut”, then turned towards Maddy and her parents.

“Who gives this bride away?”

“We do.” Carol and John both replied in unison.

The minister gave a single nod for them to be seated. Turning her attention to Gaby and her parents, she asked the same question.

“Wer gibt diese Braut weg?”

“Wir.”

A nod from Reverend Gotthard sent Jenny and Dave to their seats.

Once the parents were settled, the minister said a few words about the sanctity of all marriages and then looked at the guests.

“Madeline und Gabrielle have decided to express their true feelings … with the writing of their own vows … Madeline … “

While Maddy was saying her vows, the minister offered the opened prayer book to Kat, who then placed Gaby’s wedding band on top of the two rose stems. As she was completing her ‘vows’, Maddy took the offered ring and lifting Gaby’s left hand, slipped it on her ‘ring’ finger.

Reverend Gotthard then turned to Gaby. “Gabrielle…“

Gaby then repeated the vows in German, with Jules placing Maddy’s ring on the rose stems.

After she’d finished her vows and had slipped the wedding band onto Maddy’s finger, both girls then ascended the two steps to the raised floor behind Reverend Gotthard and walked the short distance to the alter.

Upon reaching it, they each picked up a small lit candle and using them, together lit a larger ‘Wedding Candle’. After blowing out and replacing their candles, they returned to their positions at the front.

Silently the minister once again, offered the prayer book, first to Maddy and then to Gaby, allowing each girl to remove a single rose. Following a gentle kiss to her bloom, Maddy offered it up to her bride who then held the two flowers side-by-side and with practised ease, twisted the coated wire stems together.

Still without a word being said, Gaby looked up from the roses and into Maddy’s eyes. While holding the ‘single stem’ in her right hand, she reached across with her left hand to gently grasp her bride’s left hand and with a gentle squeeze to her hand, spoke in a clear voice.

“Just as these two roses are now joined … so are our hearts … our souls … our love.”

Gaby then raised the roses to her lips and lightly kissed both flowers before passing them to Maddy.

The minister blessed the couple and then announced, “With the authority bestowed upon me by the church … I now pronounce you … married ... you may now both … kiss the bride.”

They did.

“We did it, darling…” Maddy softly conveyed as their lips parted.

The newlyweds, along with both Kat and Jules, then retired to one side of the church where a table had been set up for them to sign the registry in full view of their parents and assembled friends. After several minutes, they returned to their positions at the front.

When everyone was back in their places, Reverend Gotthard had the happy couple turn, face the guests and join hands. At the same time, the rest of the wedding party turned to face the newlyweds.

When she first asked the girls how they would like to be introduced, since they both would be either a ‘Mrs.’ or ‘Frau’, it caused the three women to think for a moment. It was Maddy who eventually suggested the phrasing that expressed both her wish to take the ‘Bond’ name and at the same time, reflect both languages.

“Damen und Herren … I’m pleased to publicly present for the first time … Mrs. Gabrielle und Frau Madeline … Bond.”

As she heard Reverend Gotthard’s words, Maddy found herself suppressing a nervous smirk as she thought how odd it would sound to formally introduce the three Frau Bond’s, at the same function.

The large doors to the church’s main entrance were swung open as the newlyweds led the rest of the wedding party, back down the centre aisle and their first public appearance as a married couple.

“Are you ready for your public debut, Frau Bond?” Gaby playfully asked as they paused ever so briefly at the opened door.

“You really do mean … public … don’t you … Frau Bond?” Maddy nervously observed as they eyed the bustling town square in front of them.

Already, some of the townspeople were looking expectantly towards the opened doors of the church.

“Ya gotta admit … this will be a little different than what they’re used to seeing,” Gaby smugly replied as the couple stepped through the doorway.

“Too late to duck out the side doors?” Maddy quietly joked.

As they walked out of the church and into the afternoon sunlight, the girls became aware just how much attention a wedding received from the locals. Besides posing for numerous photos, they spent much of the time mingling with the guests and some of the more familiar faces in the crowd of well-wishers. Finally, they were ushered back into the limousines for the short ride to the planned reception at the “Steigenberger Bad Neuenahr”.

The international guest list of eighty was small, but it included those closest to the girls. While walking down the aisle, Gaby noticed her American friends all sitting together. Scattered amongst many personalities from the pro-cycling world, she noticed Josy and Maureen as well as several of their friends from Warsop. Even Josh Waugh managed to fly in from Scotland.

Both the current Junior and Pro Team Apollinaris were there, as well as George Má¼ller. Maria and Heinrich Pinger were easy to pick out, being seated with Gaby’s parents.

While she and Maddy were between conversations, Gaby happened to turn and saw Britney and her sister coming towards them.

“We did it!” Gaby squealed as she held her arms open ready to give each of the two sisters, a hug.

“I hope I look as beautiful as you two when my turn comes. Where did you guys get those dresses?” Britney asked.

“Gabs’ idea,” Maddy admitted, after exchanging hugs with the sisters.

“Neither of us liked the wedding dresses we saw ... all too fancy ... we wanted something simpler. In a nutshell … while we were wanderin’ in Manchester … we saw this store that supplied clothes for Renaissance re-enactment groups … an’ the rest is history.”

“How does the Indian stuff fit in? … Not exactly related … but it looks great!” Britney conveyed.

“Blame Jessica … she got me interested in the stuff. Actually … I made the ‘mistake’ of wearing my Hawk feather to a fitting and the other girls felt it would look good with the dress and the idea just evolved.”

“Actually ... we insisted,” Maddy joked.

“If you noticed … each of the girls in the wedding party is wearing some jewellery that matches either Maddy or myself, depending upon whose bridal party they’re in...” Gaby pointed out.

“I know Jessica certainly noticed,” Britney commented as she was looking at Maddy’s earrings. “I’ll have to remember this for my wedding.”

“Well … you two really pulled it off!” Debbie gushed. “The ceremony was beautiful … love the twisted roses … that was soooo romantic … and that ‘symbolic last kiss’…“

“Bit more than ‘symbolic’ … I’d say,” Britney mischievously added. All eyes in the group, turned to look at Maddy.

“Well?” Maddy playfully whined.

“I wish Mom could’ve been here,” Britney quietly mentioned to Debbie as an aside.

“Speaking of …why aren’t they here?” Gaby wondered aloud. Debbie quickly shot her sister a subtle glance.

“I don’t think we even got an RSVP from them,” Maddy added.

Both of the Walters girls looked a little reluctant to answer, but finally Debbie spoke up.

“We know how you got on with them when you stayed with us … but when they got your invitation…”

“You told me Jessica sat down with you guys after I left,” Gaby replied.

“She did … and they’re okay with you … and Maddy,“ Debbie injected.

“They could understand if the two of you just decided to live together … but … I got the feeling they were uncomfortable with the idea of a wedding and just didn’t know how to say it without hurting you two.”

Both girls could see Debbie was a bit uncomfortable having to talk about it.

“Gabs … I just want you to know that I don’t think it was Mom … not by the way she talked on the phone after she told me they got your invitation. I really believe she wanted to be here … but she wasn’t going to come without Dad,” Britney revealed.

“That’s understandable. Well … if it means anything, when you next speak with them … or to your mum … please let them know we were disappointed they decided not to come. Maddy and I would’ve loved to see them again.”

“Of course,” Britney replied.

“We’ll burn you a copy of our photo CD once we get it from the photographer … so you can show your mum,” Gaby offered. “Or we could email it. Would that be okay?”

“Try to email it first. If neither Brit nor I can download it … we’ll have to resort to ‘Plan B’.”

“Make sure my mum has a mailing address for one of you ... just in case,” Gaby suggested.

“I’ll make sure she’s got mine before we leave here,” Debbie volunteered.

“Mom’ll love that … thank you,” Britney quietly replied.

“Where you guys going for your honeymoon?” Debbie asked, changing subjects.

“No idea yet. Gabs still has to finish out the season,” Maddy offered.

“I’ve told George … he’s my boss … that I’ll take some time … probably late in the fall. That’ll give us a little time to decide.”

Later at the reception, the girls did the ‘normal’ things like greet the guests plus endure the speeches and the ‘embarrassing’ anecdotes from family and friends, alike. Much to everyone’s credit, whenever the tale involved Drew, it was Gaby’s name that was mentioned.

During the dinner, the girls asked the guests to refrain from the custom of the ‘tinkling of glasses’. Although left unsaid, they thought that at some point the ‘resulting kiss’ would eventually include members of the wedding party and they didn’t wish to ‘force’ themselves on their friends for the sake of the festivities.

When it came time for the traditional ‘first dance’, Carol walked up to the microphone on the podium by the head table.

“Could everyone form a circle around the dance floor … bitte? Also … once the girls have had their ‘first dance’ … please remain in a circle while they dance with their fathers ... Danke.”

“C’mon you two! … Get out there!” Tina playfully urged as she stood aside, providing an opening in the circle for the two girls to pass through.

Once out in the middle of the floor, Gaby took Maddy in her arms as the opening cords of U2’s “All I Want Is You” ** filled the room. During the song, Maddy could be seen quietly serenading Gaby as she looked into her eyes, while the pair slowly moved around the empty dance floor.

When the music faded, the two lightly kissed and walked over to where their fathers stood. Taking them by the hand, the girls led them onto the dance floor as the familiar opening ‘riff’ of Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb” *** came through the sound system.

“Very appropriate,” Dave softly mentioned while he and Gaby swayed to the music.

“Whaddya mean?”

“Kind of says up how you looked when we got home after the rehearsal party … no small wonder after all everything you two took on.”

“Sorry…” Gaby whispered as she put her head on Dave’s shoulder.

“Don’t apologize, Pet… there’s no need,” Dave quietly replied as they continued dancing.

“I’ll have to speak with my wife on her choice of music,” Gaby jokingly commented.

“Don’t blame her … she asked her dad for suggestions…”

“So I have to talk to him?”

“…And me … we both looked through my collection and decided this would be nice … hey! … It’s easy to dance to!”

“Okay … I’ll grant you that…” Gaby softly replied with a small chuckle. “I think it was a very nice choice ...”

They continued with their dance until after the first instrumental, when the two girls unexpectantly changed partners and finished up in their father-in-law’s arms.

“Nice touch,” Jenny mentioned as she and Carol rejoined their husbands when the four came off the dance floor.

“We had no idea these girls were planning that,” Dave replied.

“Somehow it seemed appropriate,” admitted Maddy.

The rest of the time, the girls spent more time mingling with the guests and posing for photos, than on the dance floor.

They both happily noted that Em and Ally seemed to have overcome their issues and were paying a lot of attention to each other, as the evening progressed. Maddy even swore she saw them out in the adjoining garden, bathed in the romantic moonlight and locked in a kiss.

“Sweetheart? … Come with me?” Maddy softly asked as she later took Gaby’s hand and led her out to the same spot in the garden that Em and Ally had occupied earlier in the evening. Once alone and outside, she turned and gently took hold of both of Gaby’s hands.

“I just needed to be alone with my wife,” Maddy seductively whispered as the two embraced and shared a long passionate kiss.

“… it must be the moonlight,” Gaby dreamingly sighed as they broke the kiss.

“Worked for Em and … mmmmm…”

Maddy was pleasantly interrupted as Gaby pulled her close and their lips met for a second time.

(ahem) “People are beginning to wonder where you two went,” Jules quietly commented once the girls came up for air.

“Comin’ ... just needed a little ‘alone’ time,” Maddy quietly offered. As they walked past Jules on their way back to the reception, both girls gave her a kiss on the cheek.

While the girls flitted from table to table, socializing with all their guests over the course of the evening, Debbie noticed that her sister still seemed to be pre-occupied with guilt feelings steaming from Gaby’s Virginia trip back in 2004..

“Excuse me for a sec,” she mentioned, addressing no one in particular at their table. As she got up, Debbie received quizzical looks from both Erin and Jessica, but her sister didn’t seem to notice.

She returned a few short minutes later, with no explanation and several minutes after that, the newlyweds appeared at their table. Aidan was quick off the mark and offered Gaby his chair, while ever the Southern gentleman, Robert gallantly offered Maddy his.

“Why … thank you, suh…” Maddy sweetly offered in her best Southern drawl.

“Finally … we get to spend some real time with you guys!” Gaby playfully enthused. “Thought Frank and his wife were coming? … We got an RSVP saying they’d be here.”

“They both send their regrets and best wishes … but Frank’s wife had hip surgery two days ago,” Erin replied.

“What happened?” Gaby asked, although a bit louder than she intended.

“They were driving through an intersection in Richmond and a dump truck ran the red and t-boned their car ... Frank had a few minor injuries but the passenger side … and Eileen took the impact,” Erin explained.

“I should email them … are they home?” Gaby wondered.

“Eileen’s still in hospital in Richmond and Frank told us that he was planning to stay with her … but I’ll email you when they’re back … okay?”

“Okay … but don’t forget, now...”

Maddy and Gaby spent the next while trading stories with everyone at the table about notable events in each other’s lives since their days as exchange students in Grottoes and generally having a nice little visit.

Eventually Debbie caught Maddy’s attention, who in turn gently put her hand on her wife’s arm while glancing in Britney’s direction. Gaby took the hint and turned to her friend, quietly asking her to go out to the patio with her.

“Be right back, guys,” Gaby announced as they both rose from their seats.

“I think we need to get something cleared up,” Gaby softly allowed once they got outside.

“Deb tells me that ever since you got on the plane … you’ve been bothered by something … Grottoes maybe?”

“I have to know Gabs … I can’t stop feeling terrible abou…” Gaby stopped her mid-sentence.

“Britney … I forgave you a long, long time ago … I thought you knew that!”

“No … you never said anything.”

“If I was still mad at you when I left Grottoes … I would’ve never let you kiss me behind your mum’s car.”

As she spoke, Gaby could see Britney’s eyes starting to tear over as the long awaited words registered.

“Hey! … No tears, huh? ... You’ll ruin your makeup.”

Britney produced a crumpled up tissue that she had tucked away.

“I came prepared ... waterproof mascara. I knew I was going to cry at your wedding … sometime.”

After Britney dabbed her eyes dry, she was pulled into a warm embrace.

“This for all the good times we did have together, though...” Gaby whispered and then tenderly kissed Britney on the lips.

“We should be getting back to the table ... c’mon,” Gaby suggested as they parted.

“Maddy’s not gonna give you grief over that kiss ... is she?” Britney asked as they approached the table.

“The Missus gave me ‘er blessing,” Gaby playfully replied.

When they approached the table, Maddy noticed the concerned look on Britney’s face and got up to meet the girls a short distance from the table.

“Something wrong?” Maddy softly asked so as not to alert the others at the table.

“The kiss,” Gaby quietly replied. “She doesn’t want it to cause problems between us.”

“You tell her?” Maddy whispered.

“Yes ... but ...”

“Don’t worry Brit … I told Gabs it was okay...” Maddy tried to reassure their friend, while wrapping her arm around Gaby’s waist. “Now ... just put it all behind you ... you’re our friend...”

“Thank you, Maddy...” Britney quietly replied.

“Anyway ... you’re just in time, sweetheart … the photographer’s looking for both of us.”

“Oops … gotta go. Catch you guys later,” Gaby replied as the two started off towards the photographer.

After they had discussed some upcoming photos they wanted, the girls noticed Kat and Jules walking up to the microphone at the podium.

“Maddy und Gabi … there’s a bunch of young ladies out there ... who’ve been patiently waiting...” Kat sternly announced as Jules thrust out two more traditional bridal bouquets for the girls to toss.

After meekly retrieving the bouquets from Jules, they started to accompany their Maids of Honour out to the dance floor. Jules only managed to take a few steps before Gerhardt, her boyfriend of three years, approached her and without any warning took her by her hand and went down on one knee.

“Yes!” Jules shrieked after he said a few quiet words to her. Her outburst could be heard throughout the room and for a time, Gaby and Maddy gladly conceded the limelight to the next happy couple.

“Didn’t see that comin’...” Gaby softly admitted.

“Don’t think your sister did, either...” Maddy playfully observed.

After things returned to something that resembled normal, the bouquet toss or rather tosses, went ahead without Jules.

To those on the sidelines, the crush of young women scrambling for the floral prizes, resembled a cross between the crush of shopper’s at the annual sale at Harrods’s department store and a rugby scrum. After the dust had settled, it was Kat and Britney that emerged victorious.

Before the girls went up to their hotel room, Dave reminded all the wedding party of the post-wedding lunch the following day at the ‘elder’ Bond’s. It would also be the last chance for the girls to visit with the guests that had traveled from England and America.

The next morning, Gaby’s parents arrived at the hotel to pick up the newlyweds, much earlier than originally agreed. After quickly getting dressed and an even quicker breakfast, they were ushered into the backseat of the family car. With no reason being offered for the early morning rush, the frowns on the girl’s faces showed they were less than amused.

“Where’re we going?” Gaby innocently asked.

“Never mind … just sit back and enjoy the scenery,” Jenny replied.

Gaby knew from her mother’s tone of voice, that asking further questions would be pointless. Instead, she reached over to take hold of Maddy’s hand as Dave drove away from the hotel.

Heading back into MayschoáŸ, he eventually pulled into a drive and a very new looking Audi S8 before turning off the engine.

“Dad missed the turn for our street,” Gaby flatly pointed out then as she realised that her dad had shut the car off, naturally asked. “Who lives here?”

Remaining silent, Dave and Jenny turned in their seats to face the two girls seated in the back.

“Each of you hold out a hand!” Jenny ordered. The girls did as they were told and without another word, Dave and Jenny dropped two sets of keys into each.

“What’s this?” Maddy was the first to find her voice and directed her question to no one in particular. Both girls were genuinely surprised.

Jenny pointed to the keys in Gaby’s hand and simply stated, “Car.”

Dave nodded at Maddy’s hand and flatly stated, “House.”

As Dave and Jenny got out of the car, the girls slowly emerged from the backseat in a proverbial state of shock. Jenny took her daughter-in-law’s hand and led her around to the front of the Volvo where the other two were already standing.

“You’ll need these if you’re going to look at your new car and house with dry eyes.”

She then produced a pocket pack of tissues from her purse which the two girls gladly accepted after they unsuccessfully tried to suppress their tears of joy. After taking a moment to comprehend what was in front of them, both girls turned to embrace Dave and Jenny in an emotional hug.

“We never did have Mum’s old flat … did we, Daddy?” Gaby sniffed.

“Nope! … Never asked about it either,” Dave proudly whispered as his daughter held him.

“Hey! … Save some of that for us!” The girls looked up and saw Maddy’s parents come running out of the house.

After Carol and John joined the four standing by the car, the floodgates opened again as the newlyweds hugged both sets of parents. Once they regained their composure, the girls realised that it was no dream. The Audi was Gaby’s ‘team car’ from Apollinaris and the house standing in front of them, was theirs!

“Things have certainly changed since I joined the team … I only got a small Mercedes,” Jenny jokingly quipped as a very wet-eyed Gaby stared at the car.

“Are these are really ours?” Maddy asked between sniffles.

“Yes darling … they really are,” Jenny quietly spoke as she reached over and pulled Maddy into another hug.

“How? … Where did the money come from?” Gaby asked her parents as Maddy’s arm wound around her waist.

“We’ve been putting aside money for your education, for a long time … then forgot about it when you got your ‘Specialized’ contract and you said you were going to use it for your university,” Jenny volunteered.

“We didn’t even think about it until you girls forgot to look into a place to live … and I remembered the account,” Dave added.

“The timing of the 2013 World Cup was better than I hoped … it got you out of our hair while your Mum … Maddy’s parents … and I worked on this.”

“That account let us put down a good down payment on this place … as well as get you some furniture,” Jenny explained.

“As soon as we got the keys … we started to get this place ready … before you got back.”

“These two are responsible for furnishing some of the rooms,” Dave announced while pointing at Carol and John.

“Which ones?” Maddy asked of her parents.

“Your bedroom … the lounge … and the formal dining room,” Carol proudly replied. “Jen and I did the kitchen.”

“And … you remember Stefan, Gaby?” Jenny asked.

“George’s cousin? … The one who build our house?”

“George got him to do some custom renovations … we’ll show you once we get inside,” Jenny replied.

“What about the car?” Gaby wondered.

“George asked the sponsor to look into your team supplied car once you and Maddy started planning your wedding,” Dave revealed. “You didn’t really need it while you were at home.”

“The only thing you girls have to do is bring your stuff over … otherwise you’re all set,” Carol added.

After a guided tour of the house, the girls followed both sets of parents back to the ‘elder’ Bonds in their new car.

Back at the parent’s house, Jenny and Carol wisely decided to have a catered lunch for the thirty-plus that arrived. For the rest of the day and into the evening, the girls relaxed with family, friends and all their guests from Warsop and Grottoes.

Both Jules and Gerhardt rightfully shared the spotlight. It was hard to tell who was more excited for them, the newlyweds or Jenny and Dave. Now they had another wedding to look forward to and the sobering prospect of ‘an empty nest’.

From the beginning of the 2013 World Cup Tour, Gaby’s aggressive style of riding convincingly put her in the standings as first overall.

Following the short break in the schedule, the team resumed the ‘Tour’. Later that summer, Maddy, Gaby and the rest of the team headed to France for the prestigious ‘Tour de Féminine’ and Gaby’s second real try at the ‘yellow jersey’.

It was during their travel preparations that Gaby finally conceded to Maddy’s insistence that she should get a full-time job to help out.

She had to agree with Maddy when she pointed out that they still had to pay off the house despite the generous down payment her parents managed and Maddy steadfastly insisted that she wasn’t about to let her Gaby shoulder that responsibility by herself.

Maddy eventually applied for some of the positions applicable to her degree in a couple of the local hospitals, including the large teaching hospital in Bonn.

During the ‘Tour de Féminine’, Gaby not only dominated the field as an individual but also played a key role in leading Team Apollinaris to an impressive overall second place standing. Kirsten took the green jersey and as icing on the cake, she also won the sprint on the final stage.

Even though Gaby didn’t win the final stage, she took the polka-dot jersey as ‘Queen of the Hill’. In addition, she easily took the yellow jersey as the race leader, with her overall point total that she accumulated on all five stages of the ‘Tour de Féminine’.

The victory finally gave her something she had fought for so hard for; not only for herself but also for her mum.

It was during the podium ceremony for the yellow jersey that Gaby, in front of the crowd and gathered international news media, simply ‘lost it’.

Gaby was thoroughly surprised when both her mother and Maddy, walked out on the stage carrying the prestigious jersey. As she slipped it on her daughter, Maddy stepped up onto the podium behind Gaby, to fasten the jersey’s back Velcro closure.

“You guys are supposed to be back in MayschoáŸ...” Gaby softly remarked even as her eyes threatened to mist-over.

“Now ... take a few deep breaths, dear … can’t have you all teary-eyed for the papers,” Jenny whispered as they hugged.

“Can’t help it, Mum...” Gaby softly replied as the first tears started to flow down her cheeks.

As they posed for the mandatory photos, it was very evident that emotion overcame all three of the women. The camera shutters went off at a furious pace! After Gaby had a chance to freshen up, both Jenny and Maddy joined her for a press conference.

Once they were seated at the front, George quickly brought the room to order by introducing the three women and then let the media ask their questions. The general mood of the affair was relaxed as Gaby and occasionally Jenny, fielded several questions with ease and confidence.

One reporter, obviously more interested in the fact Maddy and Gaby walked into the room holding hands and sat together at the front table, nodded towards Maddy and then looked back at Gaby.

“Gaby … I don’t think anyone in this room could help but notice you and Maddy when you came in … and…”

George and the girls knew the question was bound to come up sooner or later. Once the tabloids even suspected the two were a couple, they both would be hounded until they admitted it. Even Jenny would be ‘fair game’ and Gaby didn’t want to allow that to happen.

“Better answer him Gabi … we knew it would come,” George whispered into her ear. Maddy looked at Gaby and gently squeezed her hand as she silently nodded her agreement.

With an assured confidence, Gaby turned to face the reporters once again. It was plain to all that were around the journalist in question, that the combination of the uneasy silence that fell upon the room and Gaby’s burning stare made him extremely uncomfortable.

“An’ ... you work ... for?” Gaby slowly asked. Upon hearing the name of the paper, she slowly sat back in her chair and her eyes narrowed.

Putting her weight on her elbows and leaning forward over the table, she cupped the base of her table microphone stand with her hands and slowly spoke directly to the reporter like a mother admonishing her child.

“You’d love nothing more than for me to ignore the question all together or give a ‘no comment’ … wouldn’t you?”

As she stared down the ‘reporter’, Gaby let an awkward silence fill the room once again before sarcastically addressing him.

“Well ... I’ll answer your question ... if only to prevent the unethical hounding of me or anyone I know by you or your tabloid friends.”

Total silence fell upon the room like a heavy curtain, as Gaby lowered her sights on the hapless reporter.

“I figure with all the reputable media represented in this room ... both TV an’ print ... someone’s bound to report it correctly an’ then you people wouldn’t have anything to write about ... would you?”

Taking a moment to calm herself, Gaby looked up and after a deep breath, she calmly addressed the room as a whole.

“It’s no secret … Maddy and I are a couple … as in … legally married … she’s my wife … an’ I’m hers…”

Her blunt admission had caused a shock wave that immediately spread amongst the gathered journalists and before any questions could be asked of either her or Maddy, Gaby forcefully closed the door in a tone of voice that left no doubt the subject was closed.

“Now! … That’s the last question we’ll answer on that subject. Any more cycling questions?”

Maddy slipped her hand back on top of her wife’s and looked at her. The room understandably went silent with Gaby’s candid, abrupt and totally unexpected answer.

One of the other reporters finally broke the awkward silence and asked, “I got the impression that you were all pretty emotional on the podium. Can each of you describe what you were feeling at the time?”

Following a brief pause, Gaby looked around, took a deep sigh and then leaned forward to speak again.

“Whatever happens to me in the future as a pro cyclist … nothing will … or can … mean more to me … than when Mum walked out on that stage and put the yellow jersey on me. It’s one thing to be awarded the yellow jersey from someone you regard as a cycling legend … but when that legend is also your mum … I really can’t put it into words what I felt … except to say it was literally … a dream come true.”

Taking hold of Maddy’s hand, Gaby continued. “...An’ to have Maddy up there with Mum and I…” As Gaby choked back a few tears, Maddy pulled her close and held her.

Jenny quickly spoke into her microphone while the two girls were occupied. Amidst the buzz of clicking shutters, she glared at the alleged tabloid reporter and answered the same question. Her voice was a combination of anger and pride.

“I’m very proud of everything … and I do mean … everything … both my daughters have done in their lives … and today is one of those days that will stay with me … for the rest of my life. I’ve always said Gaby would be better at the sport than I was and I take great pride in watching her prove I was right!”

The tone of Jenny’s answer had the desired effect on the offending reporter, causing him to break eye contact and sheepishly focus on the note pad he held in his hands.

When she’d finished her response, Gaby turned and hugged her. Again, all one could hear was the sound of camera shutters before she turned back to face the gathered media.

As Gaby turned to look at her, Maddy took her cue to respond to the question.

“I’m very proud of Gaby and what she’s accomplished ... I’m also extremely happy … that … I could be here to share this moment with her.”

Both girls leaned over in their chairs and lovingly embraced each other. Then as if to leave no doubt about the two of them, Maddy gave Gaby a lingering, tender kiss on the lips. The sound of shutters permeated the air, once again.

“Just in case they didn’t understand the concept,” Maddy playfully cooed as their lips parted.

Following several more questions that had Gaby recounting the individual race stages from her perspective, they finally rose from their chairs and were about leave the press conference, when from somewhere in the room came a request.

“Gaby? … One more shot with the three of you, please?”

The End?
 
 

~*~
 
 
Postscript:

* http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0pdQU87dc8&NR=1

As selected by the girls in their wedding ceremony. From the album ‘Waking Up The Neighbourhood’

** http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWBKBkEJQRk

As selected by the girls for their ‘first dance’. From the album ‘The best of U2’

*** http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hUYzQaCCt2o

Maddy asked her dad and Dave for ideas for the Father’s dance ….
 
 

This is the final chapter of Book Three - Reconciliation
and concludes the 'Notes of a Journey' Trilogy.

I hope you enjoyed it ~PB
 

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