Chapter 25 - "When Love & Hate Collide !" - 28th September 2012.

I finally pluck up the courage to confront Rocky about the mysteries of his past. But am I too late ? ....

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You can check out the music slideshow to this chapter on Youtube here ... http://youtu.be/rXHNPuZoVvM

Chapter 25 - "When Love & Hate Collide !".

I couldn’t sleep at all last night, yesterdays strange and surprising events had left me with far too many burning questions and curiosity. Perhaps I should have just walked straight up to Rocky and asked him myself, had a proper mature grown-up chat about things ? but somehow I just didn’t have a clue how to bring it up, or even ask him about his past ?

Seeing as my cowardly streak was now in control, the only option left was to try and do a bit of research and digging myself, to see what I could find out. So I did a little search on the internet, to see if I could find out what a Crystal Ken doll actually is ?

I was rather shocked with the picture that came up on my screen … was that my Rocky ?!

As I looked closer I could indeed tell it was him, well a version of his doll that is. The face looked just the same, even the smile, although I still think this guy somehow didn’t look as handsome as my Rocky. I also started to wonder what had happened to the lovely white suit that he originally came with ?

All this time I had been focussing on the Ken doll, at first I had not really taken any notice of the other doll in the photo. But now that I had, I was a little startled … she was a ‘Crystal’ Barbie, the counterpart to Crystal Ken! I studied the picture closely, the Barbie was so, sparkly and blond, and a touch Princessy, even her facial features had an ever so slight resemblance to my own.

Was this why Rocky liked me ? Do I remind him a little of a Crystal Barbie ? … and more importantly did Holly have a Crystal Barbie to go along with Rocky, when she was little ? … and if she did, what had happened to her ?

I had a million more questions than when I had started …oh no !!

I now knew that I had to talk to Rocky about this, I had to know what was going on ? and if he did in fact, like some of my other older doll friends, have a lost love that has left his heart all wounded inside ?

I looked all over the house, but couldn’t find him anywhere, not even working on his cars. There was only one place left that I had not tried, the wardrobe, but why on earth he would be up there ? … maybe he was looking for me or something ?

As I walked into the room I could hear muffled voices, I wondered what was going on and panicked so hid behind one of the shoe boxes, hoping that the pinkness of my dress might help me to camouflage with my surroundings a little.

I could see straight away that Rocky was up here, just like I had suspected, but he wasn’t alone … he was with another doll !!

It wasn’t just any doll either, even though her hair wasn’t quite a well styled and her dress had lost its sparkle, it was ever so plain to see … she was Crystal Barbie ! … she must be ‘the’ Crystal who Reid had referred to yesterday.

I watched in terror, but couldn’t quite really hear what they were saying ? Rocky definitely looked pleased to see her though, and she the same with him. They looked familiar and comfortable with one another as the talked, I didn’t like it.

I felt like I wanted to look away, as though I couldn’t watch … but somehow could not take my eyes off the pair of them … what is Rocky doing ?!?

Crystal’s face was quite pretty as she spoke, she had lovely violet coloured eyes that looked so very enchanting and almost twinkled when she smiled. But was Rocky finding her as captivating as I was ? that was the question burning me from within, whilst I felt the cracks starting to form in my delicate heart.

I could see they were getting a little closer to one another, as they continued to chat, then out of nowhere a huge smile engulfed Crystal’s face in response to something Rocky had just said to her, she looked ever so excited, declaring rather loudly “Oh Rocky, I’m sooo very pleased” and they hugged! She did not stop there however and continued saying “True love triumphs over all in the end, it’s just all so very Romantic, I think I could just cry”.

Oh my god !! What has just happened ?? Has Rocky just got back together with his long lost love ?? … without even a second thought for me! I felt as though I had been cast off like an old dish rag, and could not really quite believe that this was REALLY happening … and just like that my heart shattered into a million tiny pieces.

I could not contain my shock any longer and just gasped in horror at the scene before me. Which I get the impression Rocky & Crystal must have heard, when they suddenly turned around looking straight in my direction.

Rocky looked a little surprised by my presence, appearing a little startled as he exclaimed “Ella ?!?”.

I had seen enough, I could not take any more of this humiliation, so just turned and ran away. My eyes instantly filled with tears and I could not stop the uncontrollable sobbing that had taken me over. I still couldn’t believe it, I just couldn’t quite believe what had just happened … I thought Rocky felt as deeply for me as I did for him, but now I realised, I was only a consolation prize, until the return of his ‘real’ true love!

Rocky chased after me straight away, but luckily I had a better head start and was actually a much fast runner than he was, so he didn’t even get close as I ran down the stairs and across the house.

I’m not entirely sure where I was headed to, I just wanted to get as far away from what had just happened as possible, I wasn’t really even looking where I was going as I entered the dining room. But Anthony saw me coming as I almost ran right into him.

I stopped in my tracks at the sight of him, feeling ever so confused and vulnerable, I wept constantly as he spoke to me.

“Ella, my dear” he declared, sounding ever so concerned “What on earth has happened to get you in such a state ?”.

I couldn’t really talk properly and only managed to blub a little “its Rocky, he .. he .. he …” and that’s all I could say for the moment, before I was overwhelmed by another wave on uncontrollable sorrow and heartache.

Anthony looked at me a little sympathetically replying “Oh dear, have you two had a lovers quarrel ? … I’m sure you will sort it out in the end, not to worry”.

For some reason that comment made me sob even harder, I wished that it had been something as simple as just a little tiff between us.

“He’s .. he’s … he’s found someone else … Crystal Barbie !” I blurted, trying ever so hard to fight back my tears as I spoke.

For some reason though Anthony did not look as shocked, or upset as I would have thought by my declaration. I know I was a little distracted with other things at the time, so it may have been that I got the wrong impression, but I had an inkling he was almost a little pleased by the events that were causing me such misery.

I couldn’t control myself any longer though, and just broke down in utter despair at this unbelievably horrible turn of my life. I wept so very deeply on Anthony’s shoulder, I was almost a little worried that I might stain or dirty his posh shirt, but I was in such a state I couldn’t stop myself from continuing, as I sorely needed some comfort from someone.

It was as I was standing there, crying my eyes out on Anthony’s shoulder, that Rocky finally caught up to me. He came flying into the dining room at such a pace, for a moment I wondered if he was going to end up running straight through us in his haste.

There was a look of shock on his face, as he saw the close proximity which I was standing to Anthony, I actually found that slightly pleasing. It might be petty, but I wanted him to feel what I had felt, when I had seen him with Crystal upstairs.

I could tell that Rocky was VERY put out by Anthony’s presence, but he appeared to put that to the side for the moment, and instead said ever so gently to me “Ella, Sweetheart” somehow hearing him call me sweetheart after what had just happened felt ever so painful. I had to muster ever ounce of strength I had, just to turn and face him a little without breaking down again. “are you OK my Darling?” he continued, but it was ever so plain that I wasn’t ok, so he didn’t even wait for a reply before carrying on “Look, I’m not sure what you thought you saw ? But please let me explain ..”.

It was in that moment, all the anger inside me reared its ugly head, cutting him off in his tracks before he even had a chance to finish what he was saying.

“Explain ?!” I blurted rather bluntly “Explain ?! … oh yes an explanation is just what’s needed here” by now my voice was raised and almost shouting back at Rocky “How about an explanation of why you lied to me ? Why you NEVER told me about Crystal ? Why you made me fall in Love with you, only to crush my heart ? … are you pleased with yourself now ? Was it a good little game ? Are you now ever so happy that you’ve been reunited with your one true love, even if you had to destroy me in the process ? I loved you so very much, I would have done anything for you … how could you ? … how could you ?!!!?”.

Rocky looked ever so hurt and concerned by my outburst, he gently grabbed my arm saying a little more forcefully “Ella, please calm down, if you would just give me a moment to explain everything”

“Don’t touch me !!” I screamed back at him, pulling away from his slight hold of my elbow rather abruptly.

I’m not sure if he was trying to help or hurt matters, but it was now that Anthony decided to intervene “I think perhaps you should leave her be for the moment” the tone of his voice was polite but very authoritative.

“And I think you should mind your own business mate !” Rocky replied, he was starting to sound very peeved at the intrusion, especially from this guy.

Anthony’s voice was also sounding a little more surly, as he responded with “And I think it’s quite clear, the lady doesn’t want to talk to you Sir !”.

By now the guys were getting closer and closer, you could feel the intense competition and dislike they had for one another, as things rapidly escalated even further ..

“Look this is between Ella and I, and has nothing to do with you” said Rocky angrily.

Anthony smirked and seemed much more cool in his reply “I respectfully disagree, I think she needs the support here, of someone who is fully on ‘her’ side”.

“and what on earth makes you the right choice for that? We both know the REAL reason you are sticking you nose in here, and it has nothing at all to do with what’s best for her” … I actually think Rocky sort of had a point with this one.

Feeling that he had to remind everyone of the situation which had started this whole big drama, Anthony then added “And what’s best for her is you carrying on with your old flame right under her nose, is it ?” he was not sounding quite as well polished or posh in his delivery by now, I could tell the whole thing was starting to get him very wound up too.

“You don’t know what you’re talking about there … So stay out of it OK!” I think that last statement pushed the wrong button with Rocky, as he was now shouting quite loudly.

“Or what ?” replied Anthony, becoming so much more aggressive himself.

I couldn’t quite believe this !! … I was standing there distraught and heartbroken, and all these two were doing was building up to blows. The whole thing was utterly ridiculous, and I had simply had enough.

“Stop it, stop it … STOP IT !!!” I screamed at the top of my voice.

They turned and looked at me so startled, I don’t think they quite knew what to say or do for a moment.

It was then that I remembered the flower corsage on my wrist, the one Rocky had given to me on our first date. I had worn it every day since as a reminder of that wonderful night, and how I felt about him, and how I thought he felt about me … Now when I looked at it though, it just made me feel like a fool.

I tore the flower from my arm saying “This is all either of you are going to get of me … so fight over that !!” and with that I threw it back at Rocky, hoping he would feel the poignancy of what that meant.

My act had the exact effect I had hoped for, I could see how deeply it cut right through Rocky, as he stood there watching the flower, as it landed on the floor by his feet.

“Ella .. I…” he said, sounding so very hurt and wounded.

I couldn’t take any more though, I was mentally and emotionally exhausted, I didn’t want to hear another word out of either of them. So without even waiting to hear the rest of what Rocky was going to say, I just turned and ran away again sobbing.

“Leave me alone, the both of you … PLEASE, just leave me alone !!” …
 

Chapter 24 - "Come Back To My Love" - 27th September 2012.

It seems that my new admirer feels the need to plant a little seed of doubt in my innocent mind, which most certainly starts to sprout after the shock arrival of someone from my dolly-pal, Calamity's, past. And that gets me thinking ... How much do I REALLY know about Rocky ? ... 

You can find the FULL story on my facebook blog here ... https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.151114831709892.35168.150797015075007&type=3

You can check out the music slideshow to this chapter on Youtube here ... http://youtu.be/W2yjPpD7M6M

Chapter 24 - "Come Back To My Love".

Today we were all together again, and back in the gym, it had been so long since our last visit here that the room almost felt a little strange and unfamiliar, but it was nice for us all to get a change of scenery for a while.

I was still feeling a little fluffy about yesterdays events, when Rocky had asked for us to live together. It was a big step, we had talked about it a lot and decided that we weren’t going to rush things, after all there was a lot of BIG decisions to make, including the most important one, which was ‘where’ ? I know it might sound a little daft as it’s not as though we would be moving out of Holly’s house or anything, but there were still a lot of different rooms to choose from. Would Rocky move into the wardrobe with me ? or would I move in with him and the cars in the kitchen dining area ? Or would we just find somewhere else in the house to make ours ? It was a lot to think about, and it’s not as though there is any rush, so we are taking our time and considering the options so we can do it right.

A nice bit of distraction in the gym was just what the doctor ordered to give my mind a little rest bite from everything that had been going on. With that in mind, Millie had convinced me to have a go with her on the abcircle, it was like some strange kind of doll fairground attraction that spun us from side to side, and up and down the incline of the circle, almost like one of those pirate ship rides, where the boat swings back and forth getting higher and higher.

After a while on it though, I started to feel a little queasy and faint, so had to ask her to stop and give me a rest for a bit. I think she wondered what all the fuss was about ? It was as though she could have spun around on it all day without any problems, perhaps her constitution is made of sterner stuff than mine or something? who knows ? Either way I was glad when it had finally come to a halt.

I was still feeling dizzy and not totally sure of what was happening when, of all the people, Anthony decided to approach me.

“Greetings Ella” he said politely, I think he wondered what on earth I was up to on this strange contraption.

I hadn’t quite got my brain back in gear at that point, I think I must have looked a little spaced out and not with it ,as he looked at me a little worriedly asking “Are you ok Ella ? … you don’t look quite well”.

As I looked down at him, with my mind still all foggy and confused, I remember thinking that he is still very handsome, almost pretty, but somehow looked very young, like he belonged in some kind of boyband, or something. Personally I prefer older guys, like my Rocky … oh god, I forgot about that, I was supposed to sort things out with this guy wasn’t I !

My head was starting to clear a little when I finally remembered what it was that I needed have the little chat with Prince Prettyboy about. Oh no, I had to let him know where he stands, or in fact didn’t stand, with me. I had hopes that if I could clear things up a little and make him realise that I wasn’t interested then he would stop pursuing me !

I slipped down off the abcircle and onto the floor with much more grace than I normally would, in fact, usually I would have probably slipped on the floor and landed on my face. But then at least not having a clumsy moment now was a good thing, so that I could actually get down to having the chat, although in all honesty I hadn’t got a clue where to start ?

I knew he was looking at me, waiting for me to say something, but I could not quite look him directly in the face just yet. And even though I could not see myself, I got the feeling that Rocky was probably most likely watching the two of us together very closely from across the room, so I needed to get on with it and get to the point. I just needed to try and figure out what I wanted to say first … Errrmmmm ???

“Look Anthony” I started, still not having quite worked out how I was going to say this “I just wanted to say, in case there has been any confusion, that even though I’m a ‘Cinderella’ doll and you are a ‘Prince Charming’ doll … well, that doesn’t mean that we are going to get together or anything” Hmmm was that perhaps a touch too blunt ? … oh well too late now.

As I spoke the expression on his face did not alter at all, he was very hard to read, somehow that made me feel more uncomfortable as I wondered if he was really taking in what I was saying ? But I continued on anyway “You see I’m with Rocky, and we’re very happy … and … and … that doesn’t really leave room for any possibility for anything happening between you and I … if you get what I’m saying ?” I really wished I had thought about things more before I had opened my mouth, on reflection what I had said sounded so clunky and odd. But maybe it came out that way because I was still a bit dizzy from the abcircle ?

I couldn’t really tell if he was processing what I had just said, or if he just didn’t understand, as for just a second he stood there, still looking very blank.

“Ella my dear, if I have given you any cause for concern or upset then I am indeed mortified” He always sounded so formal when he spoke, it made me feel like I was quite common and unpolished, and I wasn’t quite sure I liked that he had called me his dear, that felt a little too familiar, I only liked it when Rocky spoke to me like that. Anyway he hadn’t quite finished what he was saying and so went on “I can only offer my sincerest regrets and apologies, and beg your forgiveness for any intrusion on my part … I of course understand you already have a beau, and I would not want to be the cause of any disharmony between the two of you, or do anything that would jeopardise your future happiness”.

The way he spoke was so ‘wordy’ and sounded almost old fashioned, I felt as though I needed a moment just to try and translate what he was saying in my head. I found it quite funny that I understand what Calamity says easier than this guy.

“Thank you for understanding Anthony” I replied a little shyly, for some reason I started to feel worried about the way I spoke in front of him now, I wondered how on earth he had managed to be so refined straight out of the box, and I was, well, just me ?!

“I would of course understand if you feel that any further acquaintance between us was improper or inappropriate ?” Eh ?! It took me a while but I think I figured out he was asking me if we could still me friends ?

“We can be friends” I replied hoping that I had in fact understood what he was asking before, as I added “but ‘just’ friends though”.

“Naturally” he said, looking a little pleased by my answer. It was the first glimmer of emotion or expression change that I had seen from him this whole time.

There was now a little awkward silence, neither of us seemed to have a clue what to say next. Then Anthony came a little closer and asked “Ella, if it’s not an imposition, I was just curious if you had managed to set a date yet ?”.

“Date ?? .. for what ?” I enquired feeling ever so confused.

“Why, for the Wedding of course” he replied enthusiastically.

“Wedding ? What Wedding ? who’s getting married ?” I blurted, getting more and more confused by this whole strange conversation by the minute.

“Oh, I do apologise” said Anthony, looking as though he knew exactly what he was doing as he spoke “I just assumed, as you and your beau have been making plans for co-habitation that meant he would have done the right and honourable thing of proposing matrimony first. Please accept my sincere regrets if I have caused you any further confusion or distress, I will of course drop the matter at once”.

I stood there feeling ever so unsure about what had just happened … why was he implying that Rocky was not being honourable to me ? Was there something wrong with the fact that we were planning to live together but were not married ? I hadn’t thought so before, but now I started to wonder … ?

Now, all the while I had been chatting with Prince Prettyboy, the others had been just going about their business in the gym as usual. Rocky and Rio were playing with that shake weight again, still not managing to get anywhere with it. Jackson had found a quiet spot to observe from. But Calamity, she seemed to have found something interesting in the corner.

It seems that Holly’s been going through the loft recently and had being finding out more of her old toys and dolls. This little box had been placed in the gym out of the way whilst things were being brought down but then forgotten about, so here it sat looking all innocent.

The only trouble was, the box was not innocent, it was plain to see even from a distance that it was a box with a bag load of old broken doll parts in it. Now I know that probably doesn’t seem like a big deal to you humans, but imagine if you found a box full of varying severed human body parts !!! … yeah, it’s a bit creepy isn’t it. And as such we had all given the box a pretty wide birth during our time in the gym.

That is all except Calamity, she had such an insatiable curiosity and wasn’t at all squeamish, so could not resist the chance to have a quick peek inside …

“Oh Calam, what are you doing ?” protested Jem as she watched in horror at what Calamity was up to.

“I’m jus curious, me ole bowdy miyght be in heyre” she replied getting a bit closer so that she could have a better look.

Jem rolled her eyes and could not quite believe that Calam was actually going to have a poke about in the bag. I don’t think she wanted to watch really, but she couldn’t quite take her eyes off what Calamity was doing.

“Oh my lowrdy !!!” squealed Calam, none of us were surprised though, she was digging around in a bag of body parts after all, so we were sort of expecting the screams. Buts it’s what followed next that really caught our attention.

“Gosh Amighty, it’s Reid !!!!” she hollered.

All of a sudden the room went quiet and we all looked over to where Calam was … it appeared that she had actually found a doll in the bag, and not just any doll, her Cowboy doll friend, the one she had had a little fling with back in the day !

We all just dropped what we were doing and rushed over to her to find out what was going on. Everyone gathered around the box where Reid was laying inside the bag of body bits, at that moment I think we all wondered, if he was indeed all there ? Or if it was just … parts of him ? but no-one really wanted to ask.

All except Millie that is, who peered over him asking “Is he dead ?”.

None of us could quite believe she had actually come out with that! But then that’s Millie, she doesn’t really do the ‘thinking’ thing. But in truth I think we were all wondering the same thing a little anyway ?

Rocky held me close in his arms for comfort, and I felt such a wave of sadness come over me, oh this was awful … just awful !!

Luckily in that moment Reid looked up saying “Calamity ?? … is that you?”.  We all breathed a huge sigh of relief that he was conscious.

“Yes I’m heyre” she replied looking ever so pleased, I could see her eyes were starting to water a little. It was not at all like Calamity to get emotional like this, it was quite surprising how much of an effect this whole thing was having on her.

“Well aren’t you a sight for my tire old eyes” said Reid in response. His voice was very deep and a little croaky, it had a rather old ring to it, he didn’t speak with the same ‘country’ style accent that Calamity had, but still sounded ever so Cowboy.

Calam helped him out of the box, she insisted on doing it herself and would not let anyone help even though we all offered. Considering he had been in there for the last 15 years it was impressive how quickly he found his feet and started to recover. I think we all wanted to know how on earth he had ended up in such a gruesome bag? but didn’t really feel it was appropriate to ask at that point, the poor guy had been through enough trauma as it is for the moment.

As he and Calamity stood together, I saw her face glow again, just like it had done when we had all watched her film together. It was such a magical moment, and I felt truly privileged to have been there to share the joy with my very good friend.

Realising that as Reid had been out of the loop for a while, he didn’t actually know a few of the dolls there, Calamity decided to give a few introductions.

“Thiys heres ma very goowd friend, n Rockys new girwl, Ella” said Calam, looking so pleased and proud as she presented me to her guy.

It was when I was shaking his hand that I first noticed how short he was, he wasn’t just shorter than Rocky or the other guys, he was shorter than Calam and even me! But then I guess being a 70’s cowboy doll he was not really designed to be a Barbie scale, and its not like height really matters anyway, Calamity obviously didn’t seem to mind, but I think they had so much more in common, their deep connection went way beyond their physical appearances.

“A pleasure to meet you Ma’am” said Reid, he appeared full of genuine interest and enthusiasm at meeting me, which was nice. As I looked closely at him, I noticed how old he seemed, the paint of his hair was worn and thin in a lot of places and his face looked a bit tired, and his clothes looked a little frayed and mismatched, to be honest I got the impression that these were not actually his proper cowboy clothes anyway. I did not honestly find him at all handsome, but then I guess I didn’t have to. I did notice a little mark on his cheek though, it reminded me of the one Rocky has in a similar spot and that made me smile.

Reid then turned to Rocky and happily enquired “So’s Crystal about then ?”.

Rocky looked a little awkward about the question, and didn’t say a word and I noticed Calam whisper something into Reid’s ear, he then glanced at Rocky and replied “Ahh, sorry” in a sympathetic tone.

Both guys then quickly changed the subject and went on to chat with the other dolls, to catch up with everyone else. I could not help but feel curious about who ? or what Crystal was ? … and why everyone had reacted a little odd at the mention of the word. I mean I know Rocky is a Crystal Ken doll, but in truth I had never actually asked him more about that and what it actually meant ? … now wasn’t really the time though I guess, but its something that definitely needs further investigation, to try and find out what on earth this mystery was ? … and what it had to do with my Rocky ?

As I stood there, slightly behind where the rest of the happy reunion was taking place, Millie came up to me. I was actually rather surprised she had noticed I wasn’t with everyone else.

She looked at me and said in her usual high pitched squeaky tone “Isn’t it exciting Ella, he’s back from the dead !”

I smiled at her and wanted to point out that he wasn’t actually ‘dead’ in the first place, only missing. But didn’t want to be cruel so simply replied “Oh yes, I’m ever so happy for Calam”.

“Makes you wonder though doesn’t it ?” she continued, looking as though she was actually trying very hard to think something.

“Wonder what ?” I asked, I was starting to get curious here, as this must be quite important, if whatever it was, had actually got Millie thinking !

“Makes you wonder, who else may be up there, waiting to be found?” she said. I was actually quite impressed that she had managed to think of that one before me, but then she carried on “I heard that Holly brought another box of old dolls down from the roof earlier today and is sorting through them now … I wonder who else from the past is going to make a surprise return from the grave and back into ‘their’ lives ?” and with that she glanced over to where our friends were all grouped together, chatting in such a familiar happy manner.

As we stood there, watching everyone else, I started taking in every detail of their fun, laughter and familiarity with one another, it was suddenly clear how much history they all shared together, they had literally known each other for decades. There was so much I didn’t know about them all, so much that must have happened before I had been brought into their lives ? so much I wanted to know, but didn’t quite have the nerve to ask !

It was then that Rocky spotted me standing apart from everyone else “Are you ok Sweetheart ?” he asked lovingly placing his hand on my shoulder.

“Yes I’m fine” I replied, hoping that he was too caught up in everything going on to notice that I wasn’t being entirely truthful.

You see the truth of the matter is that, the doll who’s past I was most curious about, was of course, Rocky. Somehow I suddenly had the feeling that maybe I didn’t know him as well as I thought I did. Like what is this Crystal mystery ? and why had he not told me about it ? … maybe I should have just asked him then and there to get it all out in the open ? But I didn’t really quite know how to ask … so I just smiled at him. It was lovely to see both he, and all our friends so joyous, and I wasn’t going to be the one to put a downer on Calamity and Reid’s special day.

Chapter 23 - "Hideaway" - 26th September 2012.

After deciding that I'm not up to facing all the DRAMA surrounding our new addition's presence, I try hiding from the rest of the gang ... Funnily enough however, that doesn't stop THEM seeking me out instead. And after a bit a chat, and a wake-up call to remind me that I cant HIDE from my problems forever, I'm rather stunned by an unexpected proposition which follows !! ... Ooooh-errr, hey ...

You can find the FULL story on my facebook blog here ... https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.151110938376948.35167.150797015075007&type=3

 You can check out the music slideshow to this chapter on Youtube here ... http://youtu.be/-sLfp1_uUn4

Chapter 23 - "Hideaway".

I wasn’t hiding, well I guess I was a little bit, oh dear this sounds familiar, but I promise this time its leading in a totally different direction ! After the curious events of yesterday had left us with a new arrival, who seemed to have taken a bit too much of and instant liking to me, I sort of decided to try and stay out of his way for a while, in the hopes that Anthony would come to his senses and realise he didn’t know me, and his advances were not at all wanted or welcome.

So, I made the decision to spend the day in my room, the wardrobe that is. It was nice to have a bit of time to myself to think, but I did miss my friends, and of course Rocky. But then I had to keep reminding myself that my actions had a purpose, and once Anthony had gotten over his rather instantaneous interest in me, then Rocky would also see that there was nothing to worry about, and things could go back to normal … or at least I hope they will ?

I was sitting in a little corner or the room, lost in my own thoughts when I saw Holly approaching again … oh no, what does she want this time ?!?

“Ella, there you are, what are you doing hiding up here ?” she said looking a little confused. At this point I was just praying she would not ask me anything about how things went with Prince Prettyboy !! … oh no, I really shouldn’t call him that … Rocky why did you put that name in my head ?! … I mean Anthony… Oh dear. Anyway, luckily Holly did not wait for an answer from me, and just continued on saying “oh, I forgot to give you these yesterday” she then proceeded to present me with a lovely new set of dresses.

I now felt a little guilty that I had reacted in such a way when I had seen her coming, as this was actually a very nice gift, but I’m still not sure if I have quite forgiven her for meddling in my love life yet.

I thanked Holly for the present, and she then placed the dresses on the floor in front of me, saying “Have fun” as she walked away to carry on with her daily business.

As I looked down at my new clothes, I could see they appeared to be a little glittery, hmmm, you all know how I feel about glitter ! … But they were a gift after all, and maybe they wouldn’t be anywhere near as bad as my original dress was, when it came to shedding sparkles. So, I excitedly proceeded to free them all from their plastic packaging.

It was whilst I was sitting there, happily having a proper look at all my new goodies, when I spotted Jem coming over to see me.

“So this is where you are hiding … Ooh new clothes ?!” she said rather excitedly.

I wasn’t quite sure at first which one I should respond to, but as I didn’t really want to get into the whole, I am hiding but I’m not thing again, we all know how well that conversation had gone with Rocky before, so I decided to focus more on the dresses part.

“Yes, Holly just gave them to me, aren’t they pretty” I replied, full of enthusiasm that I now had someone to share this girly moment with.

Jem sat herself down on the floor alongside me so that she could have a better look at everything, and I continued by showing her a necklace that I had found in the set.

“Oooh that’s nice” exclaimed Jem, looking at the little string of pale blue plastic beads in my hand.

I glanced at her a little as we talked, and came to the realisation that the necklace looked as though it would match her dress rather nicely, and so I offered it to her to try on.

She was a little hesitant at first, but when she finally agreed to give it a try, it was very clear that it really looked so very lovely with her dress and hat, and complimented the hint of blue colour in her eye shadow so well. I knew in that moment she would have to keep it, it was never going to look ‘that’ good or well placed on me.

“Oh Ella, I couldn’t possibly” was Jem’s initial response after I told her to keep the necklace.

“Look, I have more than enough new stuff here” I replied hoping that I could convince her to keep the little gift “besides, I never really wear necklaces anyway, so it would just go to waste, and end up getting lost … so in a way you would be doing me a favour”

“Oh alright then” she agreed joyfully “Thank you so much Ella”.

I really didn’t feel like she needed to thank me, after all the help and support I had received from her during my time here, I owed her much more than just a little plastic trinket. But I was pleased all the same that it had made her so happy.

Jem then looked at me full of excitement saying “So, which one are you gonna try on first then ?”.

I had been pondering that very question a little myself, but as I stood up I instantly knew the answer. It was the pink dress, it had to be the pink one, something about it was calling to me, so I picked it up and asked “how about this one ?”.

“Great” replied Jem, almost as though she would have started with exactly the same choice “well go put it on then, I cant wait to see you in it !”.

I went behind the little pile of boxes beside us to change, and when I came out again I felt ever so pretty, I strutted over to Jem and did my very best ‘bad’ hand on the hip model type pose, whilst enquiring “How do I look ?” in a playfully joking voice.

“Wow, Ella” said Jem, looking ever so impressed “Rocky’s gonna bust a limb joint when he see you in that !!”

She was probably right as well, Rocky has commented before on the fact that he loves it when I wear pink, supposedly he adores it when the colour of my dress matches my cheeks, when I get a little embarrassed and shy that is. And anything that helps me out, even the tiniest bit, during one of my awkward little moments has to be a good thing, doesn’t it.

Anyway, onto the next dress … This one was nice and comfortable, and was made of a stretchy fabric that felt all soft and silky to the touch. It was nice to have another version of my simple day dress, but for the life of us, Jem and I could not quite figure out why oh why they had made the apron part all sparkly ? What on earth use was that ? … oh well, still a nice addition to my wardrobe though.

The 3rd gown was a version of the classic blue Cinderella dress, but this one had a much slimmer skirt and a darker colour to my normal classic princess gown. Jem said she thought I looked ever so regal in it, and I must admit it did make me feel a bit more like a princess. At this point I caught myself wondering if my self-righteous twin would have treated Rocky and I better the other day had I been wearing this dress ? But I didn’t really want to dwell, and who cares what she thinks anyway !

“Oooh, I like the headband” said Jem, looking quite interestedly at my hair decoration as she continued “that really sets off the whole ensemble”.

I was pleased that she thought it looked so good on me but, in reality it was a little tight on my head, so I doubted that I would wear it that often, but then us girls always like to have options of extra accessories for when the need arises, don’t we ?!

This last outfit was my favourite one though, I was so very excited to have my very own nightdress! It’s not at all that common for us dolls to have night clothes, we usually end up having to sleep in whatever we have worn throughout the day, so this was a real novelty.

“Taa daaah !!” I blurted, oozing my overly eager enthusiasm for my new night wear.

“I like that” replied Jem with a big smile on her face, I could tell she was feeding on my excitement “I bet that will be so comfy to sleep in”.

And she was right, I felt so relaxed and at ease wearing it, so I decided I might as well keep it on for the rest for the rest of the day, after all it’s not like I would be going anywhere, seeing as I was still hiding out.

Now that the little fashion show was over with, I sat down next to Jem so that we could chat. I could tell as soon as I seated myself that there was something on her mind, and I started to wonder if indeed her visit with me today actually had a purpose beyond us getting distracted by all the girly new clothes excitement ?

“I don’t mean to pry Ella” she started, sounding ever so timid about even talking to me “and please tell me to mind my own business if you want to … I just wanted to know how you and Rocky are doing ? … you know, with all this Prince Charming business” The concern in her voice was ever so apparent, but I was a little confused by it, as I thought Rocky and I put all that behind us yesterday ?

I think Jem could see the bewilderment written all over my face, so she decided to be a little more clear in her meaning “It’s just that Rio and I adore you both, you’re like family to us … we would hate to see anything, or anyone, come between you”.

All this time while she was talking my mind started to wander, there had to be a reason why my closest friends were so worried ? Had Rocky said something ? Had Prince Prettyboy .. I mean Anthony ? Maybe I was being a little naïve yesterday in thinking that one little chat about the situation would make everything ok ? It was a lot to think about.

But then Jem was sitting here, still waiting for me to respond … oops oh dear !!

As I turned to her, I could feel all the confusion tying itself up in endless knots within my mind, and just like that, the world and everything in it seemed ever so complicated again.

“We talked a little about it yesterday” I finally responded, in such a meek, unsure of myself tone “I told him that I’m not interested in a flashy Prince, and that I only want him … he seemed to believe me at the time … do you think he didn’t then ?”.

Jem looked at me full of sympathy saying “Oh Ella, I don’t know … the minds of men can be a mystery you know, they seem to have their own unique way of dealing with things, that us girls will never understand, its all primal, instinctive and caveman like sometimes, especially when you hit the wrong nerve” yeah I got a great showing of that between the two of them yesterday, I thought to myself !

I could tell that there was more Jem wanted to say, but was being a little reluctant again, until she finally found her nerve once more “You have to remember though that none of us know what Anthony is really like, what he may do ? think ? or feels for that matter ? … so perhaps Rocky is not the ‘only’ guy who you need to talk to about this? Maybe you need to give Anthony the plain and simple truth of things too, so he also knows where he stands in all this ? …. Rather than just hiding away from everyone … and the whole situation … up here alone ?”

I could see what she meant, and felt ever so silly that I had convinced myself that hiding away would be the answer to my problems. I tried to smile at her, and nodded my head so she would know that I had heard and understood what she had said. It was then that she put her arm around me in a ‘big sisterly’ kind of way, and I knew that, even if I found it hard to face things, she would always be there for me when I needed her. She was such a good friend, who would always be honest with me and tell me the truth, even when I didn’t really want to know, or hear it.

The moment between us did not last long however, as we suddenly thought we heard voices crossing over from the other side of the wardrobe, and not just any voices, guy voices, and not just any guy, it was our guys !! This was a turn up for the books, they never came in here, were they lost or something ? As they certainly appeared to be when we saw them wandering through, looking a little confused and bewildered by all the pinkness and clothes everywhere.

Jem and I sat there watching them, they were like two little lost sheep, or fishes out of water, they were alone in an environment that was totally alien to them, I could not help but smile. It was quite obvious by now that they were looking for us, but rather than help out we just sat there and giggled waiting to see what they would do next.

They looked so relieved when they finally spotted where we were sitting “So this is where you’ve been hiding” said Rocky, looking his usual smiley mischievous self.

“Yeah, you’ve been gone ages” added Rio “We got a bit worried so decided to send out a search party, but seeing as ‘she’ never came back, we thought we had better go and find you both ourselves” he always seemed to have the most sarcastic sense of humour, but was a genuinely lovely and funny guy all the same.

Jem jumped up with great delight to see her husband, she was eagerly keen to show off the new necklace which I had given her.

“That’s smashing Babe” he said, looking ever so pleased at how happy the little gift had made his wife. He then turned to me saying quietly “Cheers Ella” and gave me a little friendly wink of appreciation.

Rocky’s face lit up like a Christmas tree at the sight of me, he took my hand in his, and stood back to get a better view, looking my up and down as he smiled with interest and enquired “Oooh, new dress ?”.

I giggled a little that he had actually noticed, but then something hit me, the realisation that … I was standing there, with Rocky & Rio, two guys … with me in my nightdress !! … Oooh !!! Somehow it felt so odd and wrong, and a little embarrassing for me to be seen by them in my bed clothes. But as they had not yet appeared to realise, I hoped that I was safe, for the moment at least.

I could not help but get so caught up in the lovingly engrossed way in which Rocky watched me. He looked so happy, so full of life, like he hadn’t a care in the world. At this point I was pretty much 99% convinced that he must be over the Prince Prettyboy problem of ours, yes I was very convinced … well perhaps 85% convinced .. but then again, OK 70% …. Alright I hadn’t got a clue in truth, as like Jem had said, the mind of a guy is like a strange unsolvable mystery to us women sometimes !

“Give us a twirl then ?” said Rocky cheekily, still full of enjoyment at seeing me so happy in my new little dress.

As I spun around though, he still had a firm hold of my hand, so I ended up twirling my way into his arms. I wondered if that is what he had planned all along ? He held me close, very close, and softly whispered in my ear “You look beautiful my Darling” as he gently kissed my cheek.

I now had a rather abrupt rush or exhilaration and excitement, I don’t know why? As its not like this was the first time Rocky had kissed me on the cheek, or the first time he had called me beautiful, perhaps it was the nightdress ? More likely it was the passionate way in which he was holding me close whilst I was wearing my bed clothes. Something about the whole thing felt a little taboo, and that was a touch thrilling to say the least.

Whilst I was getting a little side tracked, going over all these emotions in my head, Rocky whispered in my ear again “Sweetheart the nightdress is perfect for you” … what ?!? … what did he just say ?!?

I turned around to him a little startled and self-conscious as I ever so quietly murmured “So you knew ? you knew all along this is a nightdress ?”.

The look of bewilderment on his face was quite plain, he smiled at me and softly replied “Of course I knew, I’m not a total idiot you know” he then had a little chuckle and appeared a little devious as he went on to admit “besides, Holly had shown us all the dress set downstairs when she was looking for you earlier, so I kind of noticed it then”.

“Oh!” I whispered, for some reason I had a sudden feeling of utter embarrassment, almost as if I was standing there on show in my underwear with everyone staring at me, or something !

Noticing that my demeanour had become a little more uncomfortable and on edge, Rocky asked “It doesn’t bother you, does it ?” he had a look of genuine concern about him as he spoke.

“No … well yes” I replied, still trying to gather my thoughts to explain “…well, its just that … I dunno, I just feel a little awkward coz, … they are sort of, a personal intimate kind of thing … and … you’ve never seen me in a nightdress before !”

It may sound a little bit of an odd thing to be worrying me, especially as it had not really bothered me just a few moments ago, but somehow him knowing what the dress was made things feel totally different to me.

You see, I had always slept alone in my spot in the wardrobe, Calamity has her wigwam in the conservatory, Jem & Rio had their little place together on the sofa in the games room, but then they were married, so it was expected that they have the same sleeping place. But Rocky, he didn’t stay in the wardrobe, in fact, I am not entirely sure where he did sleep at night ? but I suspected that it was somewhere either in or near his cars. So we have never actually been together in that close, intimate, bed time, spending the night with one another kind of way.

“Sweetheart I’m sorry that it bothers you, but I cant really change the fact that I’ve seen it now, can I ?” he said chuckling lovingly, although as he continued to speak he was starting to sound more and more serious “My Darling, I want you to always feel comfortable around me, no matter what you are wearing, or what time of day or ‘night’ it is … you know, it might be nice to see the nightdress on you again some time?” Eh ?!? I started to feel a little curious at where he was leading with this ?

Rocky now looked a touch uncomfortable and was having a little trouble actually getting to the point of what he was trying to say to me, which left me feeling even more confused ? He took a deep breath and continued to try and finish “So perhaps it’s something we need to discuss at some point soon … you know … the idea of maybe, thinking about … living together ?”.

Living together ?!? … oh my!! That’s a big step! But for some reason the thought did not scare or worry me at all, in truth, it almost sounded more natural than the current way we both lived in separate parts of the house. You know what, I think I like the idea a lot. It was then that everything started to bubble up inside me …

I was so shocked, excited and overjoyed at what Rocky had just asked me, and also that I had admitted to myself that I really liked the idea, I couldn’t help but leap into his arms with happiness. I think he was a little taken aback by my overly zealous and eager reaction. But he did look ever so pleased and relieved that I had not taken offence to his suggestion.

My enthusiasm continued, spilling over, to when my feet touched the floor as he put me down, I planted a big passionate kiss on his lips. Again I appeared to have taken him by surprise, but I’m sure he wasn’t going to mind my affectionate response really, after all it seemed to me that he was rather enjoying my directness.

“Oh man, will you two get a room ?!” said Rio in a lovely playfully sarcastic tone, it was an obvious response to Rocky & mines rather public display of affection.

I had almost forgotten they had been standing their all this time, but at this point I didn’t really care what they had seen, I was just so happy, I could have floated away on a little fluffy cloud.

Rocky looked at me, his face was so very delighted as he chuckled and said “I’ll take that as a yes to the idea then, shall I ?”.

I felt so perfectly content, this is just what the two of us needed, we would be able to get to know each other on an even more personal level. And it would be the start of some kind of proper commitment between us! … I would be lying if I said I wasn’t already thinking about the possibility of where that could lead us to ? … dum dum dee dum, dum dum dee dum … oh no I shouldn’t be thinking that already, honestly what am I like ? … Back to the moment and focus on the joy at hand please !

It was then that Rocky turned back to Rio and Jem in response to their ‘Get a room’ comment, and smiled at them simply saying,

“That’s ‘exactly’ what we’re planning to do !”.