Eight - New Beginnings

They made it back to England just in the nick of time - literally. The Queen had very little time left.

True to its reputation, the fruit of the Eden Tree did the job and saved her life, quickly returning her to good health, and those who had plotted against her where sentenced accordingly.

"It's good to have you back, Doctor," she told him.

"It's good to be back," he admitted, earning a smile from the Queen, his new apprentice, and Carina.

The group was handsomely rewarded for their services by Queen Victoria herself. A grand ceremony was held at the palace during which the reward was presented. For her part of the reward, Carina was given enough money to fund her not only her trip to, but all her classes in Paris. She could set off right away - she couldn't believe it was actually happening! Literally a dream come true!

The day she was to leave, Tommy met her down at the docks to say goodbye. "I know I said I didn't need a governess, but I want to thank you for always being there for me and never giving up on me. Thank you for always being a friend."

"Well of course, Tommy. And thank you for doing the same for me. And I know you'll do great things at the sanctuary." She gave him a hug, which he returned with a smile.

"Thanks."

After much less convincing than before, Dolittle took on Tommy as his official apprentice.

"Well, we'd better let the others say goodbye as well," Tommy said, pulling away from their hug. Dolittle and the animals had gathered to bid her farewell too and she was very touched by the gesture.

"Farewell, Doctor."

"Goodbye, Miss Timmons.

"Oh, and I would like you to have this." She reached into her bag and withdrew the portrait she had drawn of the animals aboard the ship.

"Thank you. I shall cherish this lovely gift."

"I'm glad."

"Write to us."

"I will."

"You will always be welcome at the sanctuary."

"Thank you."

"Bye!"

"Farewell Carina!"

"We'll miss you!"

"Have a safe journey!" The animals were calling to her, but to her it sounded like a bunch of chittering and growling and squawking.

With one last wave she boarded the ship that would take her to Paris, take her forward into her dream.

One year later...

Arriving at the front doors of the sanctuary, Carina lifted a gloved hand to knock at the door.

Not really to her surprise, Chee-Chee opened the door, hooting in excitement when he saw her. He led her into the house.

"Carina - whoa!" Tommy stumbled off the ladder he had been standing on looking at books on one of the high library shelves. He fell, but safely landed in Chee-Chee's arms.

"Tommy, careful! I see your time as appreciate has made you no less reckless."

Tommy only grinned.

"So tell me what you've been up to. Keeping yourself busy are you?"

"Oh yes! The Doc and I are putting together a book, we've welcomed many more animals to the sanctuary, and Rose and I are courting now."

"Rose? As in Lady Rose from the palace?"

"Yes."

"Oh, that's wonderful, she seems like a sweet young lady."

"She is." Tommy blushed. "But Paris! How's Paris?"

"Oh it's incredible," she sighed dreamily. "Everything I hoped it would be and more! I have a display in a gallery coming up."

"That's brilliant!"

"It's just a small showing, but it's a start."

Before they could continue catching up, a familiar Welsh accent was calling through the halls, drawing near. "Stubbins! These medical tools won't clean themselves - oh." Dolittle stopped and stared. "Miss Timmons. I wasn't aware we had a special guest - a very special guest."

"Hello, John."

"Carina. How have you been?"

"Very well, thank you. And yourself?"

"Oh yes, very good. Busy."

"So I see."

"Please, will you stay for a while?"

"Thank you, that sounds lovely."

"Excellent. Now could I perhaps interest you in a tour of my sanctuary? Then maybe tea afterwards?"

"Sounds wonderful, Doctor."

"Well, only the best for our special guest. Miss Timmons." He offered her his arm which she took.

"Doctor Dolittle."

And together they began wandering the grounds, happy in each other's company.

And there you are, you've reached the end! Thank you so much for reading and, as always, I hope you enjoyed! :)