I do not own the 1982 cast but I own a few of the additional characters to my storyline.
Also, I've always wondered how Mr. Warbucks lost all of his hair, so I'm honoring one of my friends who deals with alopecia areata. Alopecia areata is a condition that causes a person's hair to fall out. It is an autoimmune disease; that is, the person's immune system attacks their own body. In this case, their hair follicles. When this happens, the person's hair begins to fall out, often in clumps the size and shape of a quarter. The extent of the hair loss varies; in some cases, it is only in a few spots. In others, the hair loss can be greater. On rare occasions, the person loses all of the hair on his or her head (alopecia areata totalis) or entire body (alopecia areata universalis).
On a side note, this chapter continues with Grace's diary entry (bold, italics), it also has thought patterns (italics), but it contains more dialogue between Grace, Oliver, and Annie (plain text).
Life is still really hectic for me with selling my house, packing, unpacking, wedding planning, and teaching art classes. The writer's block is still occurring but I figured I could post a chapter that has been sitting around for a bit. Thanks for hanging in there!
Also a continued thanks to my reviewers and previewers. You know who you are and I appreciate you so much!
Oh it was awful, Bessie! Once, we entered the elevator it was like the floodgates to Annie's stored up pain and disappointment, she's acquired in her short life were let loose, as her soft cries grew to soul wrenching sobs. I've never felt a shirt soak through so quickly as mine did early. Her death grip on me and her doll Margaret lovingly made her also indicated her need for support and comfort. My heart broke for my strong, brave, charming, and persevering girl, who was finally allowing herself to be the hurt child who needed the comfort and love from a trusting adult. The fact she was allowing me to love and comfort her, Bessie, spoke volumes.
When I reached her room the footmen had just finished placing her trunks and organizer in the far corner. I thanked them before I quickly headed to our rocking chair. Sweet Aaron, stayed back for a moment but then awkwardly left the room. Boys will always be boys, even when they grow into men … I believe girls and all their emotions scare them just a bit.
"Just a bit, humph, I'd say a lot, not to mention all those ribbons and bows too," softly teased Oliver. The only response he received was a knowing look from Grace.
Once, I got us settled into a more comfortable position, Annie curled herself into a tight ball on my lap. I remember silently crying for my baby girl as her whole body shook in my arms. It was probably about ten minutes or so of crying and rocking when Annie's sobs slowly reduced to hiccups and silent tears. She then, oh Bessie, she then apologized … APOLOGIZED! I was serene on the outside but on the inside I was fuming at THAT WOMAN, WHO BETTER NEVER BE IN THE SAME ROOM WITH ME EVER AGAIN! I did allow her to be at Annie's party because she requested it, but never again!
Bessie, my baby apologized for crying her guts out, APOLOGIZED! Do I need to say it again?! My baby girl felt the need to apologize to me for breaking down! How I wanted to strangle that woman's neck right then and there! All I could do though was love and reassure my baby girl that she was allowed to cry and break down from all the stored up pain and disappointment she's had over her life. Bessie, I told her I wouldn't think any less of her because she needed to have a good cry, and if she needed to have another soon it was allowed too!
Have I mentioned how much I would enjoy wringing that woman's neck?! I mean I remember Molly's response the morning after the bridge, and also how the girls responded to their files. It just seems so surreal that their remaining innocence was robbed by that woman, and quite frankly I don't care if the world around them is cruel, she should have allowed them to be little girls and not the emotionless slaves she expected them to be in her little sweat shop! The disservice and unjust she has bestowed on all of them is downright shameful and cruel! I am still flabbergasted about how that woman could twist and turn Margaret and Miss Turner's grand ideas and hard work into something so vile!
Anyway, once, her tears slowed down and her sobs eased, Annie started to sniff and cuddle Raggedy Ann to her. Then after several long sniffs she softy said, "I rem-m-membered more than I let on mom-m-m-my, a whole l-l-lot more."
"I know baby girl, I could tell, but thank you for being honest with me."
"So you're not mad?"
"No, why would I be mad?"
"Well," started Annie with some hesitancy, "that I'm f-feeling all this m-m-melancholy about m-my folks, the B-B-Bennetts, and that I actually kn-new them?"
"Oh Annie, you are allowed to love the Bennetts, it won't make your daddy or I love you any less. After all, we didn't have you ourselves, but now we are blessed to call you our own. The Bennetts appeared to be two people who absolutely adored and loved you. They deserve to have your love and for you to cherish the items they created and left for you. I personally am thankful for their talents so I get to treasure their work too. I'm also lucky because not to many people have the talent that David had, where he was able to capture so many of your milestones on paper. And your daddy and I get to relish in them like we were there! You know, I'd have to say, not too many people who adopt have that chance to view their babies grow, through artwork created by a loved one, into the child they now know and adore."
Annie softly grinned before it turned into a grimace. "Y-You kn-now what's u-p-psettin' th-the m-m-ost?"
"What baby girl?" I asked even though I had a pretty good idea where she was going with her train of thought.
"I-I-I would hav-ve … I w-w-wouldn't hav-ve minded bein' poor if th-they tr-truly lov-v-ved me! I-I-I would hav-ve e-even s-slept on the f-floor!" softly exclaimed Annie before burying her head into her doll and my chest.
"Shhhhh, I know baby girl," I hushed as I continued to rub her back and rock us back and forth in a soothing motion.
Bessie, she then reared back and started to wipe her tears away. "I-I remember when we l-learned a-about Miss T-T-Turner leavin' 'cause she was gettin' married'ta Mr. B-Benson. The a-adults that were always 'round started adoptin' some of the girls, I always guessed it was 'cause they feared that the next person in charge wouldn't allow'em'ta visit or somethin'. After all, that's what happened!"
Annie paused for a few moments as she looked down at Raggedy Ann, she then took another whiff of her before continuing, "I remember the day Miss Hannigan took her from me. It was the first time I was sent to the whippin' closet and got five whacks for bein' insub-insubordinate. 'Cause she went 'round the rooms collectin' our Christmas presents, I guess to hock'em, and she took Raggedy Ann! I went chargin' after her and fought tooth and nail'ta get her back, but I wasn't strong 'nough. I wanted somethin'ta rememba'em by, you know? 'Cause they weren't allowed back!"
She then collapsed back into my arms as she hugged Raggedy Ann tightly to her chest. I thought she was finished but after a few minutes of just rocking back and forth and nuzzling her head, she softly said, "Th-That's why I'm s-so prot-t-tective of my r-red sweater."
"Your red sweater?"
"Yeah, you know, the one I came here with, and I was adamit that Annette give it back'ta me after it got washed."
"Oh yes, it's a bit big don't you think … wait are you saying that Margaret made it for you?"
"No, she made it for Daphne, but Daphne gave it'ta me almost two years ago for my birthday when she grew outta it. She knew that I would take good care of it just like her 'cause I liked Margaret just as much as she did. She also said that she had been waitin'ta give it'ta me since Miss Hannigan took my doll, but feared she would take it from me 'cause it was way'ta big for me at the time! She also knew that I could handle myself against Miss Hannigan, so it was safe'ta give it'ta me for my ninth birthday!
"Can I tell you something else," Annie softly whispered as a yawn escaped her mouth. Bessie, Annie's eyes had been flickering open and closed during her red coat explanation, most likely, due to the rocking motion and my nuzzles of reassurance which were helping her relax after our trying meeting with Mrs. McGuire.
"Yes, my sweet baby girl," I softly encouraged.
"S-Some of th-those wooden b-boxes were Christmas-mas gifts too which were taken by M-Miss Hann-annigan," Annie shared as her voice drifted softer with each word as the sandman finally claimed my emotionally exhausted little girl.
"You have got to be kidding me," proclaimed Oliver on a whisper, "I'll let you wring HER NECK!"
Grace's response was giving him a devious grin.
Bessie, it wasn't long after Annie fell asleep, that sweet Aaron came back up to check on us. When he saw Annie had fallen asleep, he offered to assist me by putting her to bed, but I waved him off. I did, however, request that he bring in my two folding tables, my diary (yes, I told him where to find it), and also a pen so I could write this afternoon's visit down as soon as possible. It was adorable to see how his face turned deep red when I asked him to retrieve my diary. (Just so Oliver, who is grunting next to me, will stop worrying about Aaron, I'll remind you that Aaron is Mrs. Greer's grandson. I've known him since he was a freckled faced eight year old boy who loved to make me mud pies and dandelion jewelry. He's also very smitten with Evelyn Taylor, but maybe Oliver doesn't need to know that since he's her uncle.)
"Leapin' Lizards! Does Christian know?"
"No, but Annabelle does!"
"Is he a good boy? Do I need to have a man-to-man talk with him?"
"Down 'uncle bear,' Evelyn isn't into him as Annie would say. Actually, Annabelle really likes him a lot. He's very sweet and charismatic. You'll actually like the fact that he is working part-time to help pay for college soon. He's a senior this year in school.
"Aaron's been working here for three years now, but worked under Jack for the first two summers. He's actually been investing his earnings so his college will be completely paid for which is unheard of these days. Aaron is also good friends with Twister, and even though Twister is a year younger in school they plan to be roommates in college," supplied Grace quietly.
"Wow, should I be asking him for stock advice?"
"Not necessarily since I supply him with the information," cautiously whispered Grace. "However, he's grasped onto the information quite well, and now he's starting to make his own decisions."
"What do you mean you've supplied him with information?" a perplexed Oliver asked.
Grace's response was to slightly chuckle, "Oliver, when the greatest financial mind in the world is bellowing 'more copper, more copper' into the phone, those around him tend to listen quite willingly. I've also found that you seldom are wrong, but sometimes I go against your decisions. I find it quite invigorating actually, and I'll have you know that I'm glad you love me for me and NOT my money."
This information had Oliver completely dumbfounded and he looked like a fish out of water. He then looked toward Grace again as his expression turned too amazement before he grinned on his next response, "See I told you, you are an amazing woman! Not only are you absolutely stunning to look at but your mind is exceptional! Sooooo, may I ask how rich you are my dear?"
"Rich enough that I could have quit a few years ago, but I love my job. However, my million doesn't stand a chance to your billion," sassily answered Grace.
"Leapin' Lizards!" Oliver exclaimed as he ran his free hand down his head and neck in nervous excitement. "You're telling me that I could have lost you years ago?"
Grace quickly mollified him as she grasped his hand in hers, "Oliver, I love my job, you keep me on my toes and I get to use my college degrees. I maybe your private secretary, but you've always treated me better than that. I learned long ago that the boy's club would never take me seriously and I accepted that notion; but, I also wanted to be near you, even if I couldn't completely have you." Grace responded to her own announcement immediately by ducking her head down due to the turmoil the statement caused her.
It was Oliver's turn to assist Grace with her awkwardness as he tilted her head back up after her declaration. "Grace, I've been such a fool, and I apologize for taking so long to see …," trailed off Oliver as he stumbled over what to say, but finally just gestured between the two of them.
Grace softly chortled, "We make a fine pair Oliver because I also have been a fool." After her response she leaned into capture his lips.
Little did they know someone was 'playing possum' due to being awakened earlier from Esther's intrusion, but continued to pretend that she was asleep in order to listen to her parent's tête-à-tête. I know I should tell'em I'm awake, but I just like bein' 'round'em, and if I'm bein' honest with myself I want'em all'ta myself for a bit longer. 'Cause I know once they know I'm awake we'll have'ta join the others sos we're not bein' rude. I'm just glad my matchmakin' skills helped'em come'ta their senses! I also like bein' cuddled by both of'em, and if I'm bein' honest with myself I NEED THIS RIGHT NOW! I've not cried so much in my entire life like I have these past few days.
Leapin' Lizards! But mommm … hmmm mommy … or mama, I don't know which one sounds better but she responds'ta all three of'em right now! Daddy or daddy Warbucks just fits, but I'm still tryin'ta figure out which one fits mom … mommy … or mama! Anyway, I know I'm still tired 'cause my mind just wandered 'gain, but mommy keeps sayin' I'm allowed'ta cry whenever I'm truly upset! So my eyes have been workin' overtime these past few days! Anyway, I'm gonna still play like I'm sleepin'ta stay in this comfy spot for a bit longer!
Once the love birds pulled up from their endearing kiss Oliver asked the question that had been nagging him since Grace told him about the sum she's incurred via the stock market. "Graccce, just how many people know the exact amount you've made in the stock market?"
Grace impishly responded to Oliver's worried look, "Only you my dear, besides I didn't want some fortune hunter on my skirt tails wanting me for only my money. I think I deserve more than that …" Grace suddenly trailed off as her eyes looked toward Annie forlornly.
"Grace, what is it?"
"Oh Oliver, our baby girl will have to fight off fortune hunters! She won't know what really love is," quivered Grace as her eyes returned to Oliver's. In that moment Oliver's heart filled even more than he thought possible, and instead of looking concerned he beamed with joy. However, his expression did not go over well with Grace, "Oliver, what is the matter with you? I just said that our daughter was going to have fortune hunters after her for the rest of her life! Oh my goodness, she'll also have people pretending to be her friends! Oh Oliver!"
"Grace, let's not get ahead of ourselves! For one thing, Annie's going to have six childhood friends to grow up with now! Also, let's give Annie some credit she's pretty sharp when it comes to false pretenses versus geniality," cheekily replied Oliver. Then he openly supplied, "My initial response which sent your Irish guard up was my reaction toward your insinuation that we are marrying for TRUE LOVE."
Grace's initial reply was nonverbal with an 'are you kidding me?' look. She then backed it up with, "Oliver, I would hope by now, after ten years of working together, that you would know that I am not the kind of girl that goes around 'making out' with every bald headed rogue out there!"
"I'm a bald headed rogue, huh? I never dreamed my diffuse alopecia areata would cause a beauty such as yourself to be attracted to me," brazenly teased Oliver as he went in for a kiss but was rejected by Grace as she pulled away from him with slight disappointment. Oliver's classic eyebrow quirk of inquiry immediately occurred after assessing Grace's look. "Grace? I was just kidding."
"Oh Oliver … really," huffed Grace as tears began to well in her eyes again, and one accidently slipped but Oliver instantly caught it with the pad of his thumb. He then traced his thumb down to her lips as his puppy dog eyes of regret begged her for forgiveness.
"Grace … I," stumbled Oliver as he removed his free hand from her face as he rubbed his neck again in agitation before returning his attention back to her. "Grace, look, I meant it in jest, b-b-butt I am still trying to wrap my head around the idea that you DO LOVE ME! You weren't kidding early when you said our story wasn't Cinderella but Beauty and the Beast … I mean look at me, I'm almost twice your age …"
"No your only 12 years older … THAT is not twice my age," interjected Grace softly but with an edge of rebuttal to her voice.
"Okay, well you're sweet and accomplished in so many things …"
"And so are you … maybe not always sweet but accomplished as well."
Oliver didn't know what to say next because Grace's determination to rebuttal each of his arguments had him perplexed. Grace, however, saved him. "Look Oliver, I'm only going to tell you this ONCE and only ONCE because I LOVE YOU and have LOVED YOU FOR YEARS. No one has ever stood a chance, because I gave you my heart the very first time I ever laid eyes on you at William and Esther's house years ago."
Flabbergasted is the only way to describe Oliver's look after Grace's statement. She then cupped his face in her hands before stating, "Oliver, I was the gawky teenager that you barely looked at during your visits. Now, as an adult and seeing your reaction initially with Annie, I've also come to realize that you are or were uncomfortable around children especially girls. However, now that I know you've had a 'sister' in Annabelle, and a 'niece' in Evelyn, I must confess I'm a bit confused by your continued reaction toward girls."
"W-W-Well," Oliver stuttered as he pulled at his collar a bit, "I was n-nervous around girls … still nervous around most women period. It wasn't easy as a kid working on boats with all males, and returning to land where the opposite sex roamed. I guess you could say I was comfortable with 'my family,' I knew how Annabelle worked and she loved me for me, diffuse alopecia areata and all."
Grace just gave him a 'seriously?' look and then nodded for him to continue.
"Graccce, I was awkward around girls, and still am! As a kid they saw me as some bald headed tongue-tied freak that didn't go to school, but worked on ships instead. I mean J.B. taught me how to read and to do math and if he didn't know Janice or Annabelle would assist me. I'd spend some of my ship money on books about ships, business, and finances just so I could prove people wrong … you know … that I was a smart kid even though I worked instead of going to school.
"Don't get me wrong, J.B. and Janice always said I could quit working … and I know deep down they wished I would, but they never pushed the issue," Oliver exhaled on a sigh as his ears started to turn red from sharing so much personal information. After all, it was foreign being so open with someone other than his adopted family, however, one glance at Grace's genuine interest and coated with a hint of love had him continue a bit more with his explanation. "Anyway, there were no books to purchase pertaining to girls, and how to impress them without hair and a formal education."
Grace gave him an incredulous look before uttering, "Oh Oliver! Well, I'll have you know that when I first laid eyes on you my heart thumped another beat. I didn't quite understand it at the time, after all, I was only fifteen, but when your baritone voice answered William's question it also skipped too.
"Sundays, became my favorite days because you would show up a few times a month to eat with us. I'd primp a bit more and tried to act more like an adult, but I soon realized you weren't aware of my efforts," sadly sighed Grace. "That's when I realized I wasn't beautiful enough to entice my handsome rogue."
"Where's this rogue coming from? And to be truthful, I did notice you, but not in THAT way until years later, sadly," whispered a chagrined Oliver.
"Oliver, look at me, I'm not trying to scold or reticule you! I am well aware of the gawky teenager I was, but inside I STILL feel like that teenager half the time. So, when the man I love showers me with compliments it warms my heart especially when he calls me his enchantress. As for rogue, you've always been a bit of a rogue, William stated it one evening after you left and it just stuck … so in my head you've always been my incredible rogue. Now where was I?"
"He called me rogue?" a dumbfounded Oliver exhaled as his face turned too puzzlement then to hurt.
"Oliver, look at me! Papa William, respects and loves you as a family member. Even though he is adored and respected by a lot of men and women, he only harbors mutual feelings toward those who truly reciprocate the same qualities. However I'm afraid the majority of his acquaintances only pretend to emulate them. Iffff you must know, what he totally said that night so long ago to ease your mind …" trailed off Grace as she watched Oliver nod his head in consent like a little school boy fearing his hero thought less of him, "He said, 'Oliver is a bit unorthodox and considered a rogue for most of the business world because he doesn't fit the standard mold; however, those who truly understand his brilliant financial mind and can look past his rougher exterior have found a truly powerful ally in this world, who oozes with high esteemed ethics, loyalty, and honor toward those he calls associates.'"
Oliver for a moment was speechless as he soaked in the praise William bestowed on him so many years ago especially when he was still considered 'that rugged unrefined young millionaire from the shipping docks' by most of the ton. The humility that overtook him caused a renegade tear to slide down his face which was quickly thumbed away by Grace.
Annie also nuzzled into her daddy Warbucks to show her support after feeling his body posture change a bit; however, she attempted to do it slyly in order to avoid alerting her parents that she was truly awake and eavesdropping on their conversation. Nevertheless, Grace's 'mama gene' had switched on the day Annie came to stay with them; so she had become suspicious a few moments earlier that their little pixie was 'playing possum,' and her nonchalant nuzzle confirmed her earlier feeling. Hmm, just like I thought, I knew Annie was 'playing possum' when her breathing pattern changed! Well, I know my cuddle bug is relishing in Oliver's newly unleashed softer side just like me; and, most likely attempting to enjoy it as long as she can knowing that work or guests will drag us all away from this 'safe haven for three' when she 'does wake up!'
"Olivvvver, pplllease, let me finish my story? I want you to fully understand how much I've loved you over the years!" Grace softly pleaded with a lilt of exasperation to it as she continued to cup his face. His slight head nod was his only answer to her plea.
"Thank you. Now where was I? Ah, yes, so Sundays were always my favorite after I laid my eyes on you and my heart thumped a different beat; but, soon my teenage nativity and delight dwindled when I realized you were a man of the world, who'd experienced so much already in your life, and … well … how was a gawky, knobby kneed, smitten teenager supposed to compete with the world which held a number of beautiful woman you could easily choose from and who were also closer to your age and more sophisticated?
"Yes, the realization and disappointment that you not only ignored me because I was a girl … AND don't you look at me like it's not true because you never hesitated to play ball with Ellis," Grace chastised when Oliver's face started to change to disbelief before she continued on, "but that you didn't even notice my primping attempts hurt my teenage pride in addition to the times I attempted to join your intellectual conversations with Esther and William and your only response was indifference."
"Gracccce"
"Oliver, you promised to let me finish, and again I'm not trying to hurt you. The past is the past! Now, the only thing my teenage pride knew to do, to get back at your indifference, was to ignore you right back at dinners as I continued to try to act like the adult I so wanted you to see. Now quit smirking, because you know it didn't work!"
"It's actualllllly, how do I say it? Ahhhhh, yes, quite adorable, how hard you tried, but Grace even if I had acknowledged you as you deserved, a romantic notion would have been impossible because …"
"Oliver! Don't you think I know that now? Our age differences mattered then, but not now! Being a teenager in high school and dating a man 12 years my senior would have been preposterous, and downright wrong plus Esther and William wouldn't have allowed it anyway. However, my teenaged mind refuted all the rational reasons at the time, and still became crushed, that after all my efforts, you still didn't seem to take an interest in me.
"I remember comparing every boy to you, and if I'm totally being honest with myself and you, every man I've every dated as well," added Grace as Oliver's eyes bugged out with the last comment, "Oliver, I'm not dead and I definitely never considered BECOMING A NUN! If you must know, I was always trying to get you out of my system, but it never worked. I mean, I went to college and received two additional minors in languages I never considered studying … Oliver, it was because you made a statement to William one night on one of your rare visits that you wished you had a trusted associate who spoke Spanish and French fluently!
"Oliver, who in their right mind decides that not only will she go to college for a business management degree, but also adds Spanish, French, and typing/dictating minors to her class load each semester?" Oliver's response was to shake his head in wonder. "Oliver, don't you see I did it all because I loved you, and in some cockamamie way I felt if I earned all those degrees you would finally be impressed by my brain at least. However, you stopped coming over on Sundays by the time I was in my second year of college. My heart was miserable, and the more dates I went on the more confused I became. I was always comparing them to you, and I feared … well I've always wanted a family Oliver, and at the time I was miffed at my heart because it wouldn't let you go."
Oliver cleared his throat and attempted to say something, but Grace put her finger on her lips, "Let me finish, Oliver. That night in Papa William's office, my brain finally came to an understanding with my heart. It realized that what I felt for you wasn't teenage infatuation but true love. Because the moment you entered the office and I laid eyes on you, my heart filled and skipped a beat again.
"Papa William never told me you were the person coming in that night, just that he and an associate would possibly need my excellent secretarial skills that evening. Oliver, to say I was giddy and nervous would be an understatement. I feared I would screw up and all my dreams to prove to you that I was a competent person would shatter. Thank goodness I had other work to complete, in order to help keep my body composed and compartmentalize my tumult emotions before Papa William called me into his office.
"The look on your face when I entered was not what I expected. Up until then, you'd never looked at me that way before, and it was so foreign; but, when I shook your hand I was completely immobilized for a moment when a shock ran straight to my heart, it was earth shattering. I knew then I needed to really impress you or I'd never forgive myself.
"Oliver that whole evening was surreal, and when we discussed different topics at the dinner table you truly appeared to be intrigued by my thoughts instead of indifferent. Oh, and when we did the dishes together … after your initial rebuff … my heart was so elated that I felt like I was walking on air. I hate doing dishes, by the way, but I didn't mind that night because 'we' were doing them together, and I had you all to myself."
"Gracccce, that evening is one of my favorite memories," softly interjected Oliver, "You not only impressed me with your efficiency as a secretary, but you were and are breathtakingly beautiful from the inside out. I was so enamored with you … I'll confess you became my nightly enchantress that evening."
"WHAT?!" breathlessly exhaled Grace.
Oliver had an impish grin on his face during his reply, "You once asked me why I slept so easily even with all our daily stress. I just said 'because I always have pleasant dreams.' I just never said about whom or what."
"Oh you!" huffed Grace before Oliver silenced her with a kiss, however, once they pulled up from their kiss Grace saw in her peripheral view[NN1] Annie grinning slightly. Oh ho ho! She's definitely a cute possum, but the jig is up! "Miss Annie, have you been enjoying our conversation?" questioned Grace as Oliver initially gave her a puzzled look. Grace replied with a wink before she began to slightly tickle her daughter as she planted endearing kisses on her cheek. Annie's attempts to not be affected and continue to 'play possum' were no match for Grace's tactics! However, before Annie could completely thrash about from being tickled and possibly maiming Oliver in anyway, Grace stopped her onslaught as she pulled her up into a sitting position on Oliver's lap.
"MMMMom," whined Annie, "I was enjoyin' listen'ta you two share stories! Plus, I'm glad daddy knows you love'im for'im and not all his money, now!"
"How long have you known she was awake Grace?" asked a marveled Oliver.
"Hmmm, should I really reveal my new 'mother radar skills' to our little chickadee here?" playfully questioned Grace causing both her loves to respond differently.
"You're quite right my dear, we shouldn't share all our secrets with Annie especially when it concerns our parenting tactics," cheekily responded Oliver.
"Mommmm, dadddddy that's not far," huffed Annie in irritation because she not only got caught playing possum, but her mom knew she'd been awake for a while and wouldn't share how she figured it out.
"Annie," started Grace as she ran her finger through her thick red locks, "I'm just jesting my dear, I figured it out when your breathing changed after Mama Esther left the room. I figured her entrance into the room woke you. You've slept for nearly two hours anyway."
"Leapin' Lizards! Two hours?! Mama, I've never taken so many naps in all my life, let alone a two hour nap," exclaimed Annie while Grace responded with a sweet perceptive smile. Annie's been playing with all the different titles to call me interchanging them regularly as she addresses me. I'm not sure which one she will finally choose, but I will continue to respond to each one lovingly, in addition, to relishing in each moment because I'm finally someone's mom.
"Annie, it's okay to take naps when your body needs them. We've all been riding on an 'emotional roller coaster' this past week, and your mom has also shared with me that you may not have slept a lot at the orphanage. Is that right?" inquired Oliver. Annie's solemn nod was the only response he got from his probing.
"Your daddy's right sweetheart, as tough as you are, you are still a little girl who needs sleep and good cries to release all your bottled up emotions," added Grace as she tenderly stroked Annie's head.
"I know, I hear what you are sayin,' but I still feel weird 'bout bein' so e-e-emotional all the time. M-Mom, I slept with you more than I've ever slept with anybody … I mean I would sleep with Molly or one of the other girls when they asked me too, but I've never …" trailed of Annie with embarrassment.
"Anne Margaret Warbucks, look at me, please," insisted Grace as she softly tilted Annie's head toward hers. "I will continue to repeat my sentiments over and over again until your pretty little mind allows them to rest in your heart. You are allowed to be emotional, that's being human and more specifically a child. We know you're not a baby and you are one of the toughest kids we know, but let us be your safety nets now. We love you so much and we want you to have a normal childhood from here on out. You deserve it!"
Annie impishly grinned and then swiped it away before commenting, "Wellll, I guess it's great that I'll have all my friends adopted too, so I don't have all those fortune hunters pretendin'ta be my friends." Her comment earned an instant belly laugh from Oliver before both parents started a tickle fest with her.
Once, Annie called uncle to their assault and all three were able to contain their laughter, Annie opened the monologue about what occurred in Oliver's office after she and Grace departed for her room. "Daddy Warbucks, are my friends truly goin'ta have families too?" Annie's hopeful puppy dog look had both her parents gulping for air to find the right words to make her dreams come true, but Grace not knowing the answer finally glanced toward Oliver for answers as well.
"Annnie, Graccce, it's not as easy as your adoption," Oliver started as he rubbed his neck.
"What do'ya mean daddy Warbucks?" questioned a slightly puzzled Annie with a lilt of nervousness to it.
"Yes, Oliver, what do you[NN2] mean?" questioned a growing perturbed Grace.
"Gracccce," warned Oliver, "Annie, dear, there's more to it than just having background checks, legal assistance, and steady work. There needs to be home visits too. Mr. Donatelli, wants to be very thorough with the girls' adoptions especially in light of recent events."
"Ya'mean my friends aren't allowed'ta be adopted 'cause of that stupid Rooster Hooligan and his dame!" exclaimed Annie whose parents continued to be mystified by her never ending cleverness.
"Annnie, no name calling, but yes because of the recent publicity of Miss Hannigan's loose ethics and the scheming of Mr. Hannigan and Miss St. Regis, they are going to go by the book this time," Oliver stated but held up his hand before both girls could interrupt, "However, I persuaded Mr. Donatelli to allow the girls to stay here during that time period, and he agreed."
"What time period?" Grace inquired with an edge to it.
"Grace, I am only the messenger, so please …"
"Oliver, my Irish temper is not aimed at you, and I know you are just the messenger! I just think this is all silly and preposterous," countered Grace.
"Grace, trust me, the boys were just as upset initially, until William and Ellis sided with Mr. Donatelli." This statement did not go over well with either of the girls.
"Daddy, why would Uncle Ellis and Grandpa William side with Mr. Donatelli," faintly whined Annie.
"Annie, Mr. Donatelli and his crew have uncovered many miss handlings of Miss Hannigan this weekend. There needs to be at least two home visits to insure each of the girls are being placed in a safe environment. Needless to say we didn't have one, before you were brought here initially," Oliver stated as he glanced sideways to Grace. "Miss Hannigan should have insisted, even with all my money, that she visit the mansion to give it at least a once over to insure your safety. Now, I'm not saying we were in the wrong, we were not provided that information otherwise your mom wouldn't have jumped through that hoop. Am I right Grace?"
Grace answered a bit chagrinned, "Oliver you are absolutely right! I wouldn't have brought you home that day Annie if I'd known that a home visit was required; BUT, I'd still have insisted on you being the child we would take home though." Grace softly stroked Annie's cheek on her last comment. "Annie, money does give us more privileges, but something your daddy and I both have in common is that we like following the rules that apply to everyone. So, your daddy is right, if Mr. Donatelli is wanting to follow their guidelines we all have to abide by them."
"I understand mama, but can I not like it?" questioned Annie.
"Absolutely!" emphatically answered Oliver, "That's why I fought to have the girls remain under our care. Your mom and I have been granted temporary guardianship over the girls until all the paperwork and home visits are met. Which means when the girls stay with their future parents they are under our protection and responsibility if anything fishy should occur."
"Don't Annette, Michael, Cecile and Jack live here? Where do the others live and why don't they live here?" inquired Annie.
"Yes, they do! Oh, no! Oliver, Annette and Michael live here in the servant courters, and it's only a one bedroom. Where Jack and Cecile live in one of the caretaker cottages! Jane, Dexter, Mabel, and Rolland live closer to town in brownstone townhouses with at least one spare bedroom each, so they shouldn't have a problem with the home visits; but, it will definitely be a problem for Annette and Michael," worriedly expressed Grace, but before Oliver could say a word Annie jumped in to alieve Grace's worry.
"Mommm, a one bedroom won't be a problem 'cause we've shared a room for years. July and Tessie will think it's a vacation or somethin' like that 'cause there's less people in the room."
"Annie, I wish it were that easy, but I'm sure the state will want the girls to have a separate room from their parents. Oliver what are we to do? All the caretaker cottages are occupied!" cried Grace.
"Grace calm down, if you two ladies would let me jump into the conversation for a moment, you're worries over the Jenkins' situation would lessen," Oliver quipped as he eyed both his girls, who were both giving him stink eyes, but nodded their consent to continue, "Grace, Annie, after the men and I departed from the main hall and William and Ellis hashed out most of the legal work required for the families, word quickly spread throughout the house about the home visit requirements for the adoptions; and, before Michael could even come up with a solution for Annette and himself, Mrs. Pugh came bursting through the door stating that she and Mr. Pugh would be swapping residencies with the Jenkins…"
"That's swell of Mr. and Mrs. Pugh!" interrupted Annie with gusto as she gave enthusiastic hugs to both her parents causing Oliver's next comment to die on his lips as he embraced his little girl. Once, the hugging ended Annie continued, "So, why are Mr. and Mrs. Pugh wantin'ta switch all of the sudden?"
"Well, Annie, I was getting to that point, but instead I received some very important hugs from this cute little redhead I know," responded Oliver with his tongue in cheek. Annie's response was to reach up and give him a raspberry on his cheek which elicited one of his favorite sounds, Grace's belly laugh, which was quite catching since Annie and he both joined the merriment.
Once, the laughter died down Oliver continued, "As I was saying, Mrs. Pugh came bustling into the office, and excitedly stated that she and Mr. Pugh had been talking about downsizing to a small apartment in the servant's wing. However, because there were no rooms available they were just waiting for the right opportunity to switch with another family, or until one became available."
"I hope you didn't buy it for one moment Oliver! I've not heard one word that the Pughes wanted to downsize," Grace added as she slowly shook her head after grasping the unselfish sacrifice the Pughes were doing so the Jenkins could adopt July and Tessie. Oliver's pleased grin indicated he was well aware of the Pughes' unselfishness.
"Grace, I am well aware. Mrs. Pugh, may think she's sly, but you can't out sly the fox. Let's just say she and Mr. Pugh will be well taken care of for the rest of their lives when they are finally ready to retire, though I am not looking forward to that day anytime soon."
"Mommy and daddy, you are talkin' in adult riddles 'gain. What are you sayin'? That Mr. and Mrs. Pugh don't really want'ta move?" inquired a puzzled Annie.
"No, my dear, Mr. and Mrs. Pugh have never mentioned moving before or wanting to downsize. Your daddy's property only has eight caretaker cottages and most of them are full with staff members and their families. Only two of them, Grandpa J.B.'s and the Pughes have no children residing in them, because all the children who once lived there are now all grown up; but, I'm well aware that several times a year the Pughes host family gatherings within their home. Oliver, we'll have to let them host their family events here in our house …" Grace trailed off as she watched Oliver beam with elation. "What Oliver?"
"You called the mansion our house. It has a nice ring to it," exhaled Oliver. Grace softly grinned as a blush started to creep up her neck.
"You two are funny, mommy and daddy, this has always been your house," reassured Annie. Grace quickly planted a kiss on both her loves cheeks.
"Oh Annie, yes this has been where we've lived for years, but it's hard to explain … sometimes it takes something special to make it feel like a home. We were missing that piece until you came along," softly explained Grace as she lovingly cupped her daughter's face before placing a tender kiss to her forehead. Her endearment sent warm fuzzy feelings right to Annie's heart which drove her into Grace's body for a tight bear hug. Then the floodgates of all her mixed up emotions for the week unleashed again as tears of happiness, disappointment, and sadness overtook her little body.
"Shhhhhh, baby girl it's okay," soothed Grace as she affectionately held and rocked Annie. Initially, Oliver felt awkward, but one tender look of encouragement from Grace was all he needed to engulf his loves in a supportive embrace as he rubbed Annie's back with love.
When Annie's tears finally subsided, she hiccupped, "Mrs. P-Pugh is awf-fully sw-weet. D-Daddy, y-you should g-give her a raise." This comment caused Oliver's eyebrows to nearly reach his forehead in shock which sent Grace into a round of giggles. "Mam-ma, wh-what's so fun-ny?"
"Oh Annie, your daddy is realizing that your generosity and enthusiasm to show your appreciation may send him to the poor house in the future," quipped Grace in between giggles as Oliver gave her a playful glare.
"Huh?"
"What your mom is trying to say, Annie, is that earlier she teased me that if we left your with President Roosevelt for too long, you would be volunteering half our fortune to his New Deal," Oliver supplied.
Annie face scrunched up as she digested this information as an impish look spread over her face right before stating, "Nah, I just volunteered a quarter of it, daddy." Oliver's face screwed up in mortification until he saw both his girls' faces. The revelation that he'd been playfully fooled again caused that foreign feeling of amusement to unleash once more as he joined both his girls in a fit of laughter.
Unfortunately, there time together was abruptly interrupted as someone's stomach growled. All three knew that once they opened Annie's door to retrieve the food cart their solitude would be interrupted by the daily humdrum of the Warbucks household. However, before getting up all three embraced each other in a tight hug before Grace pushed herself up from the couch. She then reached for Annie's hand to help her off of Oliver's knee, and once she was up she dashed over to her bed to lovingly place Raggedy Ann on top of it. While Annie was taking care of Raggedy Ann, Grace had returned her focus on Oliver by lending him a hand, and as her reward Oliver quickly embraced her as he placed a knee dipping kiss to her lips. Annie's giggles of delight soon reached the two lovebirds helping them return back to reality before things really got carried away in front of their innocent daughter.
Annie then crashed into her parents one more time before all three of them went to wash their hands in Annie's restroom before returning to her room. Oliver, then, silently volunteered to retrieve the food cart as Annie and Grace moved another chair over to her little bistro table, so there were three chairs around it. During his attempt to retrieve the cart unnoticed, Oliver immediately knew he was unsuccessful because Punjab and the Asp were right outside the door guarding it. He eyeballed them momentarily before sending them a silent plea to not divulge this information just yet to the others as he rolled the cart inside. I truly don't want this time with my girls to end just yet. Hopefully, the wedding planners won't be needing Grace anytime soon; and, with any luck the ever persistent FDR will be able to curtail his need to chew my ear off about his new great scheme, called the New Deal. For some reason he believes it will fix all of America's financial mess, but I'd rather be in the company of my two loves instead of hashing out the country's affairs, even if the person wanting to discuss them is the President of the United States! I'll be damned if anyone takes this opportunity with my girls away. After all, I've waited ten years for one and the other has taught me that life is too short not to enjoy its beauty. POWER, CAPITALISM, AND MONEY BE DAMNED!
"Mom, are ya goin'ta finish your notes?" inquired Annie, bringing Oliver out of his silent reverie, as she started to load her plate up with two slices of American cheese sandwiches, and just as she was going for a third slice Grace's firm yet gentle hand stopped her as she silently indicated not to ruin her dinner. So, Annie finished filling her plate with some fruit before pouring herself a glass of milk.
"Yes, Annie, I'll finish it after we eat together, that is, if you and your daddy don't mind? I'll just need to add your daddy's information about the time he spent in his office away from us," replied Grace as she pointed to the bistro table while giving Annie a pointed look of 'you be careful.'
"Oh, about the adoptions?" asked Annie as she sat down at the table as she watched her parents fill their plates as well.
"Yes, dear."
"Well, don't forget 'bout Mr. and Mrs. Pugh's sacrifice for July and Tessie," supplied Annie as she started to dig into her plate once her parents sat down with her and gave her the go ahead. Her comment had both her parents grinning at her cute antics. Grace then ruffled Annie's hair before she started eating her own food.
It wasn't until 30 minutes after they consumed their light lunch that there little safe haven was interrupted. However on a good note, Grace had already caught her diary entry up for the day, and was just starting to bask in the joy of finally having a family of her own while she gazed upon them as they played a friendly game of checkers. Unfortunately, William's innocent intrusion on the family was just a simple reminder that they eventually needed to leave the safety of Annie's room and face the rest of the world or at least their guests within the Warbucks household; and, after glancing quickly at the clock on the wall and verifying that the time was indeed 4 o'clock in the afternoon, they realized they needed to suck it up and face the music now especially when the current maestro in the house was the President of the United States.
To be continued …