"I will go with you, Dr Turner," she announced. The words hung in the air, electric and charged. He could hardly believe it. Emotions surged through him—excitement mingled with nervousness, his heartbeat racing as if it had a life of its own.
A massive smile spread across his face as he gazed at Sister Bernadette. The atmosphere crackled between them, filled with unspoken possibilities.
"That is great… that is great news, Sister!" His voice trembled with enthusiasm. "I'll organise everything with Sister Julienne. If there's anything special you'd like to do, just let me know." He spoke quickly, unable to contain his joy.
Sister Bernadette regarded him with an amused half-smile. "Thank you, Doctor. If there's anything I can do to help you…"
He cut her off gently but firmly. "No, Sister, nothing at all! Just focus on resting for now. Soon enough, we'll be on our way." His tone was steady and reassuring.
As he turned to leave the room, he glanced back over his shoulder one last time, hoping his smile conveyed the warmth he felt inside before making his way down the familiar corridors of Nonnatus House.
On his way out, he bumped into Sister Julienne.
"Sister," he said quietly but excitedly, "the plan is on."
Her eyes sparkled with delight. "Oh, very good! I didn't think we would have an answer so quickly." She paused for a moment before adding kindly, "We shall discuss details later; for now, I believe your patients are waiting."
"Yes," he replied hastily as he continued toward the exit and headed to his car parked out front.
Once inside the car and driving toward his surgery, a grin plastered itself across his face. A whole weekend with her! It felt surreal.
But beyond planning their trip together lay another challenge—his feelings for her. How could he let this opportunity slip away? He yearned to express how deeply he cared for her—the desire to share dinners every evening and spend every moment together flooded his mind. He was hopelessly in love with her.
Arriving at the surgery, reality hit hard as patients awaited him inside.
"I apologise for my tardiness," he said as Mr. Hill stepped forward eagerly. "Would you like to come through first?"
As they walked toward his office together, Dr Turner pushed thoughts of Sister Bernadette aside—at least for now—and focused on what mattered most: caring for those who needed him today.
The weekend would come soon enough; until then, duty called.
xXx
Sister Bernadette stood in the middle of Sister Julienne's office, her heart racing. Dr Turner had just left, and his words echoed in her mind. The offer to spend a weekend away felt like a whirlwind—exciting yet terrifying.
Her emotions were tangled. She felt excitement at the thought of being with him, but worry crept in too. Was this truly the right choice? And what about her vows? The conflict churned inside her like a storm.
Just then, Sister Julienne entered the room. Her presence was calming. "Sister," she said gently, "Dr Turner has informed me you have agreed to the weekend away." Her voice was steady, yet warm.
"Yes, Sister," Sister Bernadette replied, trying to keep her tone composed. "But may I ask why? This goes against many of our vows."
Sister Julienne moved closer and gestured for Sister Bernadette to sit down. As she settled into the chair across from her superior, she clasped her hands tightly in her lap, searching Sister Julienne's face for answers.
"Sister," Julienne began softly, "you are right; this trip does challenge our vows. However, I am deeply concerned for your well-being—not just as your superior but as your friend." Her eyes sparkled with sincerity. "I care for you as if you were my own daughter."
Sister Bernadette felt a wave of emotion wash over her. It was true; Sister Julienne had always been there for her—a maternal figure in times of need.
"I want you to focus on how you feel during this trip," Sister Julienne continued passionately. "You give so much to others—your service is remarkable—but now it's time to turn that care inward."
The weight of those words hung heavy in the air between them. Sister Bernadette's heart swelled with gratitude and confusion all at once.
"I know this is unconventional," she added gently, squeezing Sister Bernadette's hands in hers, "but trust me when I say that finding joy might help you reconnect with Him."
Overwhelmed by love and concern from Sister Julienne, she felt tears prick at her eyes. She had longed for this kind of nurturing since losing her mother as a child.
"Please consider it," Sister Julienne urged softly. "This weekend could be more than just an escape—it might lead you back to yourself."
As she absorbed these words, a flicker of hope ignited within Sister Bernadette's heart. Perhaps this weekend wasn't about breaking rules; maybe it was about rediscovering who she truly was beneath the layers of duty and devotion, especially after what felt like months of agony. She wished for her path to be clear once again.
With newfound determination mingling with uncertainty, she nodded slowly at Sister Julienne—a silent promise to explore what lay ahead while holding onto faith and love tightly in both hands.
xXx
Sister Julienne had waited patiently for the right moment. After dinner, she excused herself from compline, citing urgent business. With purpose in her stride, she made her way to Dr Turner's home.
A firm knock echoed through the evening air. The door swung open, revealing Dr Turner with a warm smile. "Good evening, Sister! Please come in." He stepped aside, inviting her into his cozy abode.
"Thank you," she replied as she entered. He led her to the living room, where warmth enveloped them.
"I'll fetch some tea," he said, disappearing into the kitchen.
Settling onto the yellow settee, Sister Julienne glanced around the inviting room. She mentally reviewed their plan for the weekend away—a plan that could change Sister Bernadette's life forever.
Dr Turner returned with a tray of steaming tea and placed it on the coffee table before sitting beside her. He handed her a cup with care.
"Thank you, Dr Turner." She took a sip before continuing, "I have a rough plan for this weekend; however, we need to iron out some details."
He mirrored her actions and set his cup down carefully. "I've already found a seaside village and booked accommodation."
"Oh good! Where are you going?" Her curiosity piqued.
"Sheringham," he replied confidently. "It's about a two-and-a-half-hour drive—far enough that we shouldn't run into anyone we know."
"Very good," she nodded thoughtfully. "Are you staying in a hotel?"
"No," he said thoughtfully. "I thought it might be overwhelming for Sister Bernadette with other guests around. I found a private cottage right on the beachfront."
"That sounds peaceful," she smiled at the image of Sister Bernadette walking along the shore—finally finding solace.
"I'll pick up Sister Bernadette early Friday morning," Dr. Turner continued earnestly. "We need to avoid too many questions about our whereabouts."
Sister Julienne paused before adding, "When they ask where you both went, I'll say you two are attending a medical conference together."
She took a moment before proceeding gently: "I'll organise Sister Bernadette's bag; she will leave in her habit—but as soon as possible, allow her a chance to change out of it."
"Of course," he assured her sincerely.
"What about young Master Turner?" she asked softly. "We can care for him this weekend."
"Oh, thank you, Sister! But I've already spoken to his grandmother; she's excited to have him over."
"Very well then," Sister Julienne replied with relief. "You'll be back on Sunday?"
"Yes," he confirmed with certainty. "By afternoon at the latest."
She hesitated before asking softly, "Are you alright financially? We don't have much in our funds…"
Dr Turner interrupted firmly but kindly: "Absolutely not, Sister! I told you before—I want to fund this trip myself because I want to help Sister Bernadette more than anything."
Gratitude washed over Sister Julienne like sunlight breaking through clouds—a reminder of their shared mission and commitment to helping their dear friend through this trying time.
As they sipped their tea together in comfortable silence, hope blossomed between them—a promise of peace and healing just within reach for Sister Bernadette on that tranquil seaside getaway.
In that moment of quiet camaraderie, they both understood: sometimes all it takes is love and kindness to light the way forward.
xXx
Sister Bernadette was in the midst of packing her suitcase when a gentle knock interrupted her. She turned to see Sister Julienne enter, her presence warm and reassuring.
"Good evening, Sister. How are you feeling?" Sister Julienne asked softly.
"I'm a little anxious about tomorrow," Sister Bernadette admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
Sister Julienne approached and took her hand. "I know this is all very strange, but try to relax. I have full faith that He will guide you and Dr Turner will keep you safe." Her words were like a balm, soothing Sister Bernadette's worries. "You will find your answers and peace on this trip."
With a gentle smile, Sister Julienne handed her a wrapped brown package. "Now, these are for your trip away. They may not be much, but they'll be enough."
Curious, Sister Bernadette placed the package on the bed and began to unwrap it carefully. As she revealed the contents, vibrant colours emerged—a small pile of neatly folded clothes that took her breath away.
"Oh Sister, these are beautiful! Where did you find these?" she gasped as she held up a lovely dress that seemed to dance in the light.
"I've received some donations recently," Sister Julienne explained "I set aside some of the better pieces for you."
Turning towards Sister Julienne with gratitude shining in her eyes, Sister Bernadette said, "Thank you so much! I cannot express how much this means to me." Emotion welled up inside her as tears threatened to spill over. "Your support makes all the difference."
Sister Julienne stepped closer and enveloped her in an embrace. "You're more than welcome, my child. You mean the world to me too." Her voice was soft yet strong—a motherly comfort that filled the room with warmth.
After a moment, they pulled apart. "I'll let you continue packing," Sister Julienne said gently. "Get some rest soon; tomorrow will come early." With that, she exited the room quietly, leaving behind an air of calm.
Sister Bernadette returned to her suitcase with renewed energy and hope. She packed the beautiful garments with care before placing her case by the door.
Climbing into bed, she felt exhaustion wash over her like a wave—ready for sleep to embrace her and carry her into dreams filled with promise and clarity for what lay ahead.
xXx
A soft knock at the door stirred Sister Bernadette from her slumber. Sister Julienne entered; her voice gentle yet firm. "Sister, it's time to rise. Dr Turner will be here soon to collect you."
Sister Bernadette sat up quickly, a rush of anticipation flooding through her. Oh yes! Today was the day she would accompany Dr Turner.
"Thank you, Sister," she replied, feeling a mix of gratitude and anticipation.
Sister Julienne nodded and exited the room, allowing her some privacy. Swinging her legs over the side of the bed, she stood up and gathered her bathroom supplies. The hallway felt cool against her bare feet as she made her way to freshen up.
After a quick wash, she returned to her bedroom. She slipped into her habit and wimple with practised ease before grabbing her suitcase. The scent of breakfast wafted through the air as she headed down to the kitchen.
Sister Julienne was busy pouring tea and buttering toast when Sister Bernadette entered. Looking up with a warm smile, Sister Julienne said, "Here you go, Sister. You don't have long—only about 15 minutes before Dr Turner arrives."
She walked over to the dining table where a steaming cup of tea awaited her alongside a perfectly buttered slice of toast. "Thank you, Sister," she responded gratefully as she settled in.
As she ate, they chatted about mundane things—the weather, upcoming community events—anything to distract from the fluttering nerves in Sister Bernadette's stomach. But soon enough, there came a light knock at the door.
Sister Julienne sprang up and made her way to greet their guest.
"Good morning, Sisters!" Dr Turner's voice rang out like music on that chilly morning.
She felt an electric thrill course through her as their eyes met; he was undeniably handsome. Her heart raced while butterflies danced in her stomach—a delightful chaos that left her momentarily speechless.
Gathering herself together, Sister Bernadette stood and approached the front door where Sister Julienne and Dr Turner awaited her arrival.
"Have fun, Sister," Sister Julienne advised cryptically but kindly. "Try to relax and focus on what He might be trying to tell you—even in His silence, there is always a message right in front of us."
Dr Turner smiled warmly at her as he reached for her suitcase with ease.
With one last glance back at Sister Julienne—who wore an encouraging smile—Sister Bernadette stepped outside into the crisp morning air beside Dr Turner.
He placed her suitcase in the boot before coming around to open the car door for her. With a shy smile, she slid into the seat; warmth enveloped her from inside the car.
As he settled into his seat and started the engine, he looked towards her with a bright smile that made everything feel right in that moment.
Sister Bernadette turned back for one last look at Nonnatus House and waved goodbye to Sister Julienne standing on the steps—a pillar of support as always.
As they drove away, an overwhelming feeling washed over Sister Bernadette: something about this trip would change her life forever. The road stretched ahead like uncharted territory filled with possibilities—and perhaps even divine messages waiting just for them along their journey together.
xXx
The car hummed softly as Dr Turner and Sister Bernadette navigated the winding roads. The silence wrapped around them like a thick fog, heavy and palpable. Dr Turner felt a knot twist in his stomach. He longed to break the quiet, but fear held him captive. What if he said something wrong? What if he made her uncomfortable?
Just then, Sister Bernadette's voice broke through the stillness like a gentle breeze. "Where exactly are we going, Dr Turner? I never actually asked." Her tone was soft, melodic.
"Sheringham," he replied, stealing a brief glance at her. "It's a seaside town—about two and a half hours away." He caught her gaze fixed on him, curiosity dancing in her eyes.
"Have you ever been there before?" he inquired, eager to keep the conversation alive.
"No," she admitted with a hint of excitement lacing her words. "But I do love the beach. There's something so soothing about the ocean lapping at your feet."
Dr Turner nodded in agreement, memories flooding back from his teenage years spent by the shore with his parents. "I can't remember the last time I relaxed at the beach—maybe when I was a teenager."
"Tell me, Doctor," Sister Bernadette teased with that cheeky smile of hers, "what was teenage Dr Turner like?"
He chuckled softly, warmth creeping into his cheeks. "Awkward and gangly," he confessed with a grin. "Hopeless with girls and always buried in books."
Her laughter filled the car—a sweet sound that made his heart race faster than ever before. She was beautiful when she smiled; it lit up her entire face.
She covered her mouth with her hand as she giggled at his admission.
"I think since you're laughing at my expense," he said playfully, "you should call me Patrick." Sharing that name felt strangely intimate.
For a moment, surprise flickered across her face before she turned to him again with that small smile lingering on her lips. "Patrick—it suits you." Her Scottish accent wrapped around his name like a warm embrace.
His heart fluttered at those words; he could listen to her say it forever—a smile dancing on his lips.
As they approached a quaint little town, Dr Turner spotted a café ahead on their left. "How about we stop here? You can change out of your habit" he suggested.
Sister Bernadette bit her lower lip nervously but nodded in agreement.
He parked swiftly and hurried around to open her door, offering his hand for support as she stepped out of the car gracefully—removing her wimple and sliding off her wooden cross while keeping her cap intact— the start of temporary transition from sisterhood to freedom.
"Thank you, Patrick," she said softly as their hands touched briefly—a spark igniting between them that neither could ignore.
He smiled warmly back and retrieved her suitcase from the boot before handing it over gently.
"Thank you," she whispered again; this time accompanied by an endearing smile that lit up not just her face but also his heart even more than before.
As they walked toward the café together, Patrick suggested casually, "Why don't you get changed while I order us tea and something to eat? We can sit down and relax for a while before continuing on?"
Sister Bernadette smiled brightly at him. "Thank you! That would be lovely." She headed toward the bathroom while he approached the counter to place their order.
Finding a table by the window, Patrick sat down eagerly waiting for Sister Bernadette's return. He could hardly believe where he was or who he was with—his mind raced ahead into possibilities yet unspoken between them.
Lost in thought about how much to reveal during this holiday together—and how good life could be—they both were unaware of what awaited them just moments later.
In his peripheral vision flashed green and white fabric drawing nearer until suddenly he pulled himself from daydreams to reality—the sight stole his breath away entirely!
Sister Bernadette approached their table dressed in an enchanting white-and-green patterned dress—the semi-full skirt falling gracefully just below her knees—with delicate cap sleeves framing modest neckline perfection! Her porcelain skin glowed under soft sunlight; honey-coloured hair cascaded beautifully around shoulders framing bright eyes sparkling behind glasses!
Patrick stood up abruptly—his mouth hanging open from sheer shock! He knew she'd change out of habit but witnessing it firsthand sent waves crashing through him! She looked absolutely breathtaking!
"Wow… just um, wow," he stuttered out as Sister Bernadette blushed, her cheeks flushing bright pink as she looked down at the floor.
Clearing his throat, Patrick indicated for her to take a seat opposite him at the table. They sat down, Patrick still unable to tear his eyes away from her while she looked everywhere but at him.
Suddenly interrupted by the waitress bringing over cups of tea along with two plates of food, Patrick took a moment to collect himself.
"Here you go – enjoy!" the waitress announced once she had placed the food on the table and walked away.
Patrick turned towards Sister Bernadette but realised it may not be appropriate to call her 'Sister' anymore now that she had shed the habit for this holiday. "May I ask… What can I call you? May I know your birth name?" he asked softly, his eyes never leaving her beautiful face.
She looked up and caught his gaze; surprise flickered across her features before responding thoughtfully, "I suppose I hadn't thought about that… You may call me Shelagh."
Shelagh—what a beautiful name! Patrick thought with admiration blooming in his chest.
"Well, I hope you have an appetite! I wasn't entirely sure what you would like so I ordered a big plate of breakfast," Patrick informed Shelagh with a beaming smile as they began their meal together—a moment filled with promise and new beginnings unfolding right before them.