Part 2 - enjoy!
Seasons
A Kestramoon Creation
-----------------
Mid December
Mother, they were a hit and you know it. Jenna argued.
Jenna, darling, it is just not the appropriate music, for this party. Chamber music is much more enjoyable. Mother Abbot replied. Although she remembered how many compliments she received having the two bands for Labor Day, The Monkees for her annual holiday party didnt seem like a good idea. Classical music is the better choice.
Taking a deep breath, Jenna declared Well Mother, since you have uninvited Cassie, and will not have a band for the younger crowd, Eric, the girls and I will not be in attendance.
You are being totally unreasonable and irrational.
No, Mother, for the first time, I am standing up for what I believe in. I will not have you blaming Cassie anymore. She is family. With that final thought, she ran out of the room.
Eric heard the raised voices and then a door slam he wondered what happened. After a few minutes, he entered the den. Seeing his mother in law he asked, Mother Abbot, are you alright? You look upset.
I dont understand Jenna. She has never once, raised her voice to me. She has always been so obedient, and now she is defending Cassie. I know you dont want to hear this, Eric, but I think that your sister has corrupted my daughter.
I am sorry that you feel this way, Eric responds, trying to keep his calm. I can see how you could feel like you have lost control. Maybe you hold me partly responsible, I know that I was not your first choice for your daughter. However, Cassie has nothing to do with this. She is my family and all I had until I met Jenna.
With your family the way they were, how did you end up so normal?
Im not going to argue with you, Mother, I came here looking for my wife. What I find instead, is you accusing my sister of things she has no control over. Eric didnt let her respond. He left the room, bumping into the butler, Miles. Sorry Miles, if you see Jenna could you please tell her that I have gone to the beach.
Yes, Mr. Eric.
Eric never stopped running until he reached the beach. This was his safe haven, sitting down he recalls, Cassie always called me The Calm One. Even when she pushed, I never lost it. He pondered that for a few minutes, also revisiting the conversation with Mother Abbot. He started fuming again. If only Cass could see me now he chuckled to himself. No one, tells me that Cassie May is a problem. Yes, she is a witch, but in all honesty, so am I. A fact that should have nothing to do with anything of this. When he stood, he felt the swirl of wind. So youve come. Mama always said that I could practice any religion I wanted. But truth be told I am connected to the earth. After the next swirl of wind, he shouted, I have done everything you wanted. Why must you torture me so?
The wind left as he heard a twig break. He turned and then paled when he saw Mike.
Howdy. Mike drawled, Do ya always yell at the spirits?
No just when I get upset, which doesnt happen often. He replied.
Problems?
You could say that. Eric told Mike about the scene in the den, as they wound their way to the beach house. They were about halfway there, when Mike asked if they could talk for a moment.
Sure, whats on your mind?
Whelp, Mike said. Its about Halloween. I know what I saw, and what we did; but, Im having a bit of trouble
Understanding what you felt?
Yeah. Your sister is amazing. And so is Ari.
Ah. I think I have an idea. Let me start off, by telling you that Cassie and I are empaths. What that means is, we can sense emotions in people. For me, the feelings have to be very strong, or I have to be in contact with the person. Use it or lose it, Cass says. She always called me a lazy empath. Eric smiled at the thought.
So, I take it, you can read my mind.
No, not thought for thought. However, I can tell you that what you feel for Ari, is very ok. She is also interested in you. Whether you believe it or not, you and Ari made a connection on Samhain. I probably shouldnt tell you this, but remember when she said she had a question for her great grandmother?
Yeah, Mike answered.
Well her question, had to do with a green wool hat and a guitar. Sound familiar? Eric left that as a rhetorical question, knowing that Mike didnt have an answer. After a few minutes, they continued to the flat. Hey, by the way, thanks man.
For what? I havent done anything.
Yes you did. You were there on Samhain. Cassie and I both appreciate that none of you ran in the opposite direction. Many wouldve.
Mike, unsure of how to react, left it at, Cassie is very non-threatening, and Ari isnt bad either.
Man, you got it bad. Leave Ari to me, Ill set it up.
They arrived at the flat, finding Jenna in the living room. Speaking at once, they each asked, What are you doing here? Jenna, trying to keep the surprise a secret, told Eric to go ahead.
After a run in with Mother, I was very angry, went for a walk and ended up at the beach. Which is where Mike found me. You?
I came here after giving Mother two ultimatums concerning the holiday party.
Two?
Yes, Eric. I told her that I wanted The Monkees invited again, to play. More importantly, about Cassie. I want her their as a guest, not the nanny. I decided that if she isnt there, then neither will we. Mother was quite shocked.
Eric stuttered A guest? Cassie?
Yes, darling. I know that I have never showed you how much I care about her. I guess I didnt know, myself, until I started spending time with these guys.
Youve been spending time here?
Sheepishly Jenna replied, Guilty. It was suppose to be a surprise Eric cut her off with a kiss.
Have I told you how much I love you?
All the time, but I never mind hearing it. Jenna replied, thankful that Eric didnt push about the surprise.
Conversation continued. Jenna loved the idea of Ari and Mike. Two hours passed, when there was a knock, it was Miles. He handed an envelope to Mike, who read it out loud.
*It would be our honor, if you could clear your schedule and play for our Annual Holiday banquet. It is being held on December 21st. Enclosed is a four hundred-dollar deposit. We hope that this will assist you with any special arrangements that are needed. Thank you. The Abbots.*
Miss Jenna, Mrs. Abbot also asked me to give you this when I saw you. Miles handed her an embossed invitation for Cassie. He continued It is the invitation that you requested. If Miss Cassie accepts, then Marie will take care of the children. With that he bowed and left.
Jenna could not believe that her mother had broken. She looked at the guys and asked through tears, Will you play?
An invitation with tears attached, how could we refuse? Micky joked. Everyone laughed.
Honey, I think that this is the best birthday present Mother could give me. Cassie will be so honored. Eric said. If you dont mind, I would like to see if Cassie has returned so I can give her the news. He kissed his wife, and left.
Jenna breathed a sigh of relief. That was close, I hate to misguide him but I do want this to be a surprise. They continued rehearsing for another hour, as Jenna was getting ready to leave, Peter took her aside.
He handed her a small wrapped box, and asked, Could you please give this to Cassie for Yule?
You will see her on the 21st, why dont you
I cant, he interrupted, looking at her with those eyes. Jenna relented; since working on the song, they had become friends. She knew that he was interested in Cassie, but between his shyness and her disappearance, things were moving slowly. After setting up the next rehearsal, Jenna thanked the guys and departed.
Davy, who had no problem with the ladies, wanted to help his band mate. Thinking of Cassie, he didnt think that any of the normal tricks would work. Plus, he remembered the last time they tried to help Peter win a girl. They tried to impress her, by posing as a stockbroker, tailor and captain of a yacht. Davy laughed at the memory. Realizing that he had gotten lost in his own world, and the other three were looking at him strangely, he grabbed the money and said Well then, accordin to this ere, the party is formal.
Micky suggested Lets go blow this money on some new monkey suits.
With that they went out and bought new tuxes. Money always seemed to burn a hole in their pockets. It was a good thing that they had already paid the rent.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Yule
The guys arrived early, welcomed by Eric. They set up in the west dining room and started tuning up, receiving a list of special requests from Mrs. Abbot.
At exactly 5:15pm, the commencement bell was rung. Tradition was something that the Abbots relied heavily on. As soon as the bell rang, all eyes were on the grand staircase. Mr. and Mrs. Abbot were the first to descend; she wore a gown of emerald green velvet. Wearing a plum chiffon dress, Jenna and Eric descended next. Followed by Sarah, in a green velvet dress; Allie, in plum chiffon; and Manda in black velvet. A silence fell over the crowd as Cassie appeared, escorted by Miles. She wore a black velvet topped, organza gown, which swept the floor in the back and rose to tea length in the front. Peter nearly dropped his guitar when he saw her. His eyes followed her down the stairs, and then he noticed that she wore the earrings and necklace he gave her. She liked them. He thought.
The Monkees were a hit again, playing for hours without more than a ten-minute break at a time. When the party hit the half way mark, Jenna stood on the bandstand and hushed the crowd. Announcing that today was Erics birthday; she then asked everyone to join in singing Happy Birthday to him. When that was done, Jenna said, Now I have a surprise for him. I have been working with the band since November on a song. Eric, this is my present to you. Micky started the count and soon Jenna was singing Cant Take My Eyes Off You Bringing tears to Erics eyes, as this was their wedding song. He looked over and saw that Cassie was also teary-eyed. When Jenna finished, Eric thanked the band and everyone for such a wonderful birthday present. Cassie smiled when she saw them disappear up the stairs.
Cassie mingled, and even danced a few times. Whenever she was in the west room, her eyes never left Peter. When she was asked to dance, she did. In her heart, she wanted to steal Peter away and thank him. Someday I will dance with him. She thought.
Too soon, the night was over. Mr. Abbot thanked the band and paid them generously. Cassie approached after he left.
Ello love. Davy said, as he was the first to notice her. Did you ave a good time?
It was amazing, I couldnt have dreamed any better. She replied. The song for Eric was beautiful, it was so nice of you to help Jenna with it.
Twirling a drumstick, Micky said It was nothing for us. Jenna on the other hand worked her butt off.
Agreeing Mike added, But it all worked.
Well thank you again. Umm, Peter, could I see you for a moment?
Sure
Peter and Cassie went out to the balcony. She shivered, not that it was cold, but inside had been so warm. Peter noticed, took off his jacket and put it around her shoulders.
Thank you. I wanted to thank you for your gift. I love the necklace and earrings. Did Jenna tell you about my love of moonstones?
No. he replied. When I saw them, they reminded me of you. Almost like they spoke to me.
Cassie whispered, Mama
Can I asked you where youve been? I mean, well, we havent seen you around.
I went back home for awhile, it was calling me.
Oh, Ok. Conversation became strained. Peter had so much to tell her, but didnt know how. Cassie knew the feeling. Mike tapped on the window to signal it was time to go. Peter stepped closer to her and she panicked. For the first time, he saw her fear.
His voice softened, Please, dont fear me. He stepped away, turning to go inside.
Wait, she pleaded. Taking a deep breath, she touched his face and whispered, Soon you will understand and dream of me. She hugged him. Confused, he turned and left.
Eric saw the guys leave and then noticed Cassie on the balcony still wearing Peters jacket. As he got closer, he knew she was upset. Hes falling for you.
I know, but
But nothing, he is not Ken.
You sound like Mama. Cassie said. She visited my dreams again. She told me not to be afraid of what I felt for Peter. Mama said that there is nothing in him that could make him anything like Ken. But how can I be sure?
Listen to Mama, look what happened when I did. Did I want to, no. I wasnt good enough for Jenna. Who told me that Mama does what is best for us?
I did.
We all love you, Cassie May. Did we make the wrong choice with trusting Ken? Yes, we did. But you cant let what he did, stop you from caring again.
I guess, She replied.
Eric embraced his sister, together they felt the swirl of wind; and then they went inside.
Seasons
A Kestramoon Creation
-----------------
Mid December
Mother, they were a hit and you know it. Jenna argued.
Jenna, darling, it is just not the appropriate music, for this party. Chamber music is much more enjoyable. Mother Abbot replied. Although she remembered how many compliments she received having the two bands for Labor Day, The Monkees for her annual holiday party didnt seem like a good idea. Classical music is the better choice.
Taking a deep breath, Jenna declared Well Mother, since you have uninvited Cassie, and will not have a band for the younger crowd, Eric, the girls and I will not be in attendance.
You are being totally unreasonable and irrational.
No, Mother, for the first time, I am standing up for what I believe in. I will not have you blaming Cassie anymore. She is family. With that final thought, she ran out of the room.
Eric heard the raised voices and then a door slam he wondered what happened. After a few minutes, he entered the den. Seeing his mother in law he asked, Mother Abbot, are you alright? You look upset.
I dont understand Jenna. She has never once, raised her voice to me. She has always been so obedient, and now she is defending Cassie. I know you dont want to hear this, Eric, but I think that your sister has corrupted my daughter.
I am sorry that you feel this way, Eric responds, trying to keep his calm. I can see how you could feel like you have lost control. Maybe you hold me partly responsible, I know that I was not your first choice for your daughter. However, Cassie has nothing to do with this. She is my family and all I had until I met Jenna.
With your family the way they were, how did you end up so normal?
Im not going to argue with you, Mother, I came here looking for my wife. What I find instead, is you accusing my sister of things she has no control over. Eric didnt let her respond. He left the room, bumping into the butler, Miles. Sorry Miles, if you see Jenna could you please tell her that I have gone to the beach.
Yes, Mr. Eric.
Eric never stopped running until he reached the beach. This was his safe haven, sitting down he recalls, Cassie always called me The Calm One. Even when she pushed, I never lost it. He pondered that for a few minutes, also revisiting the conversation with Mother Abbot. He started fuming again. If only Cass could see me now he chuckled to himself. No one, tells me that Cassie May is a problem. Yes, she is a witch, but in all honesty, so am I. A fact that should have nothing to do with anything of this. When he stood, he felt the swirl of wind. So youve come. Mama always said that I could practice any religion I wanted. But truth be told I am connected to the earth. After the next swirl of wind, he shouted, I have done everything you wanted. Why must you torture me so?
The wind left as he heard a twig break. He turned and then paled when he saw Mike.
Howdy. Mike drawled, Do ya always yell at the spirits?
No just when I get upset, which doesnt happen often. He replied.
Problems?
You could say that. Eric told Mike about the scene in the den, as they wound their way to the beach house. They were about halfway there, when Mike asked if they could talk for a moment.
Sure, whats on your mind?
Whelp, Mike said. Its about Halloween. I know what I saw, and what we did; but, Im having a bit of trouble
Understanding what you felt?
Yeah. Your sister is amazing. And so is Ari.
Ah. I think I have an idea. Let me start off, by telling you that Cassie and I are empaths. What that means is, we can sense emotions in people. For me, the feelings have to be very strong, or I have to be in contact with the person. Use it or lose it, Cass says. She always called me a lazy empath. Eric smiled at the thought.
So, I take it, you can read my mind.
No, not thought for thought. However, I can tell you that what you feel for Ari, is very ok. She is also interested in you. Whether you believe it or not, you and Ari made a connection on Samhain. I probably shouldnt tell you this, but remember when she said she had a question for her great grandmother?
Yeah, Mike answered.
Well her question, had to do with a green wool hat and a guitar. Sound familiar? Eric left that as a rhetorical question, knowing that Mike didnt have an answer. After a few minutes, they continued to the flat. Hey, by the way, thanks man.
For what? I havent done anything.
Yes you did. You were there on Samhain. Cassie and I both appreciate that none of you ran in the opposite direction. Many wouldve.
Mike, unsure of how to react, left it at, Cassie is very non-threatening, and Ari isnt bad either.
Man, you got it bad. Leave Ari to me, Ill set it up.
They arrived at the flat, finding Jenna in the living room. Speaking at once, they each asked, What are you doing here? Jenna, trying to keep the surprise a secret, told Eric to go ahead.
After a run in with Mother, I was very angry, went for a walk and ended up at the beach. Which is where Mike found me. You?
I came here after giving Mother two ultimatums concerning the holiday party.
Two?
Yes, Eric. I told her that I wanted The Monkees invited again, to play. More importantly, about Cassie. I want her their as a guest, not the nanny. I decided that if she isnt there, then neither will we. Mother was quite shocked.
Eric stuttered A guest? Cassie?
Yes, darling. I know that I have never showed you how much I care about her. I guess I didnt know, myself, until I started spending time with these guys.
Youve been spending time here?
Sheepishly Jenna replied, Guilty. It was suppose to be a surprise Eric cut her off with a kiss.
Have I told you how much I love you?
All the time, but I never mind hearing it. Jenna replied, thankful that Eric didnt push about the surprise.
Conversation continued. Jenna loved the idea of Ari and Mike. Two hours passed, when there was a knock, it was Miles. He handed an envelope to Mike, who read it out loud.
*It would be our honor, if you could clear your schedule and play for our Annual Holiday banquet. It is being held on December 21st. Enclosed is a four hundred-dollar deposit. We hope that this will assist you with any special arrangements that are needed. Thank you. The Abbots.*
Miss Jenna, Mrs. Abbot also asked me to give you this when I saw you. Miles handed her an embossed invitation for Cassie. He continued It is the invitation that you requested. If Miss Cassie accepts, then Marie will take care of the children. With that he bowed and left.
Jenna could not believe that her mother had broken. She looked at the guys and asked through tears, Will you play?
An invitation with tears attached, how could we refuse? Micky joked. Everyone laughed.
Honey, I think that this is the best birthday present Mother could give me. Cassie will be so honored. Eric said. If you dont mind, I would like to see if Cassie has returned so I can give her the news. He kissed his wife, and left.
Jenna breathed a sigh of relief. That was close, I hate to misguide him but I do want this to be a surprise. They continued rehearsing for another hour, as Jenna was getting ready to leave, Peter took her aside.
He handed her a small wrapped box, and asked, Could you please give this to Cassie for Yule?
You will see her on the 21st, why dont you
I cant, he interrupted, looking at her with those eyes. Jenna relented; since working on the song, they had become friends. She knew that he was interested in Cassie, but between his shyness and her disappearance, things were moving slowly. After setting up the next rehearsal, Jenna thanked the guys and departed.
Davy, who had no problem with the ladies, wanted to help his band mate. Thinking of Cassie, he didnt think that any of the normal tricks would work. Plus, he remembered the last time they tried to help Peter win a girl. They tried to impress her, by posing as a stockbroker, tailor and captain of a yacht. Davy laughed at the memory. Realizing that he had gotten lost in his own world, and the other three were looking at him strangely, he grabbed the money and said Well then, accordin to this ere, the party is formal.
Micky suggested Lets go blow this money on some new monkey suits.
With that they went out and bought new tuxes. Money always seemed to burn a hole in their pockets. It was a good thing that they had already paid the rent.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Yule
The guys arrived early, welcomed by Eric. They set up in the west dining room and started tuning up, receiving a list of special requests from Mrs. Abbot.
At exactly 5:15pm, the commencement bell was rung. Tradition was something that the Abbots relied heavily on. As soon as the bell rang, all eyes were on the grand staircase. Mr. and Mrs. Abbot were the first to descend; she wore a gown of emerald green velvet. Wearing a plum chiffon dress, Jenna and Eric descended next. Followed by Sarah, in a green velvet dress; Allie, in plum chiffon; and Manda in black velvet. A silence fell over the crowd as Cassie appeared, escorted by Miles. She wore a black velvet topped, organza gown, which swept the floor in the back and rose to tea length in the front. Peter nearly dropped his guitar when he saw her. His eyes followed her down the stairs, and then he noticed that she wore the earrings and necklace he gave her. She liked them. He thought.
The Monkees were a hit again, playing for hours without more than a ten-minute break at a time. When the party hit the half way mark, Jenna stood on the bandstand and hushed the crowd. Announcing that today was Erics birthday; she then asked everyone to join in singing Happy Birthday to him. When that was done, Jenna said, Now I have a surprise for him. I have been working with the band since November on a song. Eric, this is my present to you. Micky started the count and soon Jenna was singing Cant Take My Eyes Off You Bringing tears to Erics eyes, as this was their wedding song. He looked over and saw that Cassie was also teary-eyed. When Jenna finished, Eric thanked the band and everyone for such a wonderful birthday present. Cassie smiled when she saw them disappear up the stairs.
Cassie mingled, and even danced a few times. Whenever she was in the west room, her eyes never left Peter. When she was asked to dance, she did. In her heart, she wanted to steal Peter away and thank him. Someday I will dance with him. She thought.
Too soon, the night was over. Mr. Abbot thanked the band and paid them generously. Cassie approached after he left.
Ello love. Davy said, as he was the first to notice her. Did you ave a good time?
It was amazing, I couldnt have dreamed any better. She replied. The song for Eric was beautiful, it was so nice of you to help Jenna with it.
Twirling a drumstick, Micky said It was nothing for us. Jenna on the other hand worked her butt off.
Agreeing Mike added, But it all worked.
Well thank you again. Umm, Peter, could I see you for a moment?
Sure
Peter and Cassie went out to the balcony. She shivered, not that it was cold, but inside had been so warm. Peter noticed, took off his jacket and put it around her shoulders.
Thank you. I wanted to thank you for your gift. I love the necklace and earrings. Did Jenna tell you about my love of moonstones?
No. he replied. When I saw them, they reminded me of you. Almost like they spoke to me.
Cassie whispered, Mama
Can I asked you where youve been? I mean, well, we havent seen you around.
I went back home for awhile, it was calling me.
Oh, Ok. Conversation became strained. Peter had so much to tell her, but didnt know how. Cassie knew the feeling. Mike tapped on the window to signal it was time to go. Peter stepped closer to her and she panicked. For the first time, he saw her fear.
His voice softened, Please, dont fear me. He stepped away, turning to go inside.
Wait, she pleaded. Taking a deep breath, she touched his face and whispered, Soon you will understand and dream of me. She hugged him. Confused, he turned and left.
Eric saw the guys leave and then noticed Cassie on the balcony still wearing Peters jacket. As he got closer, he knew she was upset. Hes falling for you.
I know, but
But nothing, he is not Ken.
You sound like Mama. Cassie said. She visited my dreams again. She told me not to be afraid of what I felt for Peter. Mama said that there is nothing in him that could make him anything like Ken. But how can I be sure?
Listen to Mama, look what happened when I did. Did I want to, no. I wasnt good enough for Jenna. Who told me that Mama does what is best for us?
I did.
We all love you, Cassie May. Did we make the wrong choice with trusting Ken? Yes, we did. But you cant let what he did, stop you from caring again.
I guess, She replied.
Eric embraced his sister, together they felt the swirl of wind; and then they went inside.
Alwaysforever,
Kessy
A mind is like a parachute, it only functions when open.
Kessy
A mind is like a parachute, it only functions when open.
