Let’s imagine…
How are you doing? It’s hard to believe I’ve been working from home since mid-March, and today I was told in a meeting that there was no plan to bring us back to office yet. How about you ladies?
As far as I know, unlike other Candy Candy characters, Albert does not have his birthday officially published. He was supposed to remain mysterious till the very end, but some CC fans came up with the date June 28. Please correct me if I am wrong. 😉 Nonetheless, let me present my new fanart for this special day. Hope you like it! ❤️
I was inspired by a letter in Candy Candy Final Story. Can you guess which letter it is? 🙂
Imagine yourself as Candy. What would you have written in your diary on that day? I’d love to hear from you, and I will select the entry that is closest to what I have in mind and update this post. The deadline is Sunday, July 5, 12 PM Pacific Time. You can submit more than one entry, if you desire. 😊 It does not have to be long, and you can write in a language of your choice. ✍️
My friends, as I mentioned before, I did not have high expectation, which explained why my original deadline was only a few days after publishing this post. Thank you very much for your participation, and I am humbled and impressed by the amazing quality of the 20+ submissions! The selection process has been quite challenging, and I have shortlisted and re-read half of the fanfics more than twice. Nevertheless, I must say I have enjoyed reading every diary entry, including the one I’ve rejected (after all, I let out a hearty chuckle 😛 ). Seriously, you all should consider writing English fanfics for Candy Candy. Also, to the newcomers, nice to meet you and hope to see you around more! I appreciate your patience and persistence for waiting for your comments (entries) approved and/or re-submitting. Due to unknown glitches I sometimes don’t get notified of new comments pending for approval. 🙁
Before I make the announcement, I’d like to point out that some of you probably have misunderstood my criteria. Therefore, I will not pick any story if it is not based on any letter in CCFS. Rest assured it does not mean your story is not good.
So, which letter? 😉 My fanart is originally based on the first letter in Candy Candy Final Story Epilogue. I wanted Albert to appear particularly young, and that he was serious and nervous at the same time. You might not have noticed this in my fanart — Candy was holding Albert’s badge in her hand. 🙂 Yet, after I finished drawing, I realized it may not be as obvious as I had expected. Therefore, I will accept any entry that is based on Candy’s letter to Little Bert as well.
Some of you have guessed this right and provided great summaries, like Avon and Fay. However, I was looking for some elements and found them in my final shortlist, which consists of the entries from Michelle (Albert’s confession and Candy’s shock), DanielleV (Albert’s reactions when listening to Candy’s story with her POTH), Lynn (Albert’s face when returning the diary and Candy’s feelings afterwards) and Anita (the embrace in the forest). After careful contemplation, I have decided to select Anita’s entry, even though it’s considerably shorter than most other entries. Yet, I like the intensity of the descriptions of that unforgettable embrace that transformed Candy as well as her realization and acceptance of Anthony’s death being nobody’s fault. Congratulations, Anita! ✨Here let me post your diary entry verbatim.
Without even realizing it, I was swept into Albert’s arms when I felt that my legs could no longer support me as I was overcome with grief standing there at that field where Anthony had lost his life at such a young age. Albert’s initiative came as a surprise to me even during that sorrowful moment because he had never acted that way before. It was me who always ran into his arms and sought comfort in him. This time, however, it was him who took me into his strong arms but in such a gentle and tender way. He did not do this only because he wanted to comfort me but because he also sought comfort from me which I gave to him wholeheartedly. This is really the first time this has ever happened between us and, above all, it’s the first time I felt something different when enveloped in his warm embrace which kept me nestled like a bird seeking shelter from the torrential rain. I had wrapped my arms so tightly around his torso and weeping so profusely that I must have ruined his fine shirt. He didn’t seem to mind as he not only accepted my tight embrace but reciprocated it with equivalent intensity. Without saying much, we shared our grief, guilt and inner turmoil which we had both kept inside our souls for far too long. We didn’t need to seek forgiveness from others or from each other but from our own selves as we were not to blame for this tragic accident which had claimed Anthony’s life. For the first time, I had bid my true farewell to Anthony without being forced into it but because I wanted to liberate myself from years of accumulated guilt burdening my psyche. I wanted Albert to be liberated from his guilt too because it wasn’t his fault. How could anyone have predicted that such a horrific event would have unfolded within a fraction of a second? I wanted to comfort Albert that moment as he had always comforted me throughout these years but I was lost for words. All I did was cry incessantly locking my arms around Albert’s firm body. My head was pressing against his chest to the point where I could hear his heart beating rapidly. I could hear my heart beating just as fast. I’ll never forget the fragrance emanating from him. I don’t know whether he was wearing cologne or if it was the wind carrying the scent of the roses encircling us but I felt that our bodies had become one just like our inner pain and suffering. I wanted the pain to end but not our embrace. As usual, however, Albert was the one who tried to assume the role of the sensible being and pulled back albeit gently. He wiped the tears from my eyes with his long pearl-white fingers and looked at me with those sky-blue eyes of his. He then proposed we go back into the study room as it was getting dark. He was worried that I would catch a cold because the temperature had fallen. But for me, all I could feel was infinite warmth and tenderness in the arms of the man who means the world to me and I want him by my side all the time for the rest of my life.
Hi Ms Puddle, I been wondering which part of the Epilogue your fanart is alluding to and I agree with many of the comments in this section that it has to do with either the first or final letter sent to Albert. It’s just a hunch…
Hope you like my little story.😊
[Candy can’t sleep and she’s decided to open her diary and jot down her thoughts on paper..]
There is so much I’ve been dying to tell Albert but I don’t want to write any of it but tell him in person. His support for me is indisputable and not once has he ever demanded anything in return. Most importantly, he has never pressured me into doing anything I didn’t want. Instead, he constantly encourages me to enrich my life through education and hard work based on the job that I want and not what others expect or demand from me.
I see where Albert is coming from. He had lived a restrictive life by being continuously pressured as if he was a racing horse by his elders within the Ardlay clan. Being raised to become the head of this powerful magnate family, Albert was coerced to abide by what his elders wanted from him without his consent. From a very young age, Albert had demonstrated remarkable aptitude in the biomedical sciences and wanted to pursue a degree in medicine. However, his elders had other plans for him and hired tutors to monitor his studies and prepare him for academic studies in law and business at either Oxford or Cambridge university. Conscientious as he is, Albert adhered to his elders’ demands and studied very hard thus excelling in his university entrance exams in law at Cambridge. During his second year of studies, however, he decided to make a dramatic shift in his prescribed career path and pursue studies in medicine, instead. He made this choice without offering any prior notice to his family. They found out about it when he graduated summa cum laude in medicine and his elders were so upset with him that they refused to attend his graduation ceremony. Only George had shown up and eventually, Aunt Elroy sent a congratulatory letter to her nephew but that was it.
Why on earth would they become so upset with Albert for choosing such an honorable profession? Not that law and business aren’t highly established professions, but it takes a rare breed of a man or woman to become a medical doctor. I am delighted and proud of Albert for not giving in to his elders’ demands and, instead, he furthered his studies in medicine in order to attain a specialization of his choice based on what he considers ideal for him.
Apparently, the Ardlay elders wouldn’t let him go so easily, therefore, they continued to apply even more pressure on him by urging him to return to the US where George would begin mentoring him on how he should take over the family enterprise. It’s awful how they simply ignored the fact that Albert has become a certified doctor and continued to force him to grab the reins as the so-called “Grand Patriarch”. I am astonished but not surprised that Albert decided to throw in the towel and abandon everyone-including his family, George and me-and achieve his independence in Africa. I was so sad for losing him but on the other hand, I was happy that he was doing the job he loved the most at an ambulatory in Kenya. Albert is known for his activism and social justice ideology. I know that his decision was based on his good will even though he had confided in me that he was selfish in doing so. I disagree with him. There’s nothing reprehensible in trying to attain one’s happiness.
At some point and with the emergence of the Great War, Albert began to feel concern for all of us and decided to come back to us. Even when he lost his memory following his terrible train accident, he was still that same independent and strong-willed individual in essence. I am beyond grateful to Albert for encouraging me to continue my studies in such a commendable field as nursing. He did not choose that profession for me and he has never coerced me into doing anything I did not want. I have yet to encounter a someone who has respected me so much and my freedom as Albert has. Even when I lost my job at the Chicago hospital, Albert would offer me support and reinforce my confidence into finding another job. When I decided to return to Pony’s Home, not only did Albert stand by me on that decision but he even contributed by donating a generous sum of money to build a clinic where Dr Martin and I could provide our services to those in need.
As for Albert, he has resumed his role as the head of the Ardlays but this time, without any pressure. He has changed his outlook on life considerably, yet, his focus on the importance of knowledge, hard work and independence have not been been derailed in the slightest. He just feels that he’s become more mature and he doesn’t want his independent nature to be at the expense of other peoples’ welfare-most importantly, the people most dear to him. I respect his decision and I know that deep down inside, he still wants to practice his craft as a medical doctor. Life is full of surprises and I wouldn’t be shocked at all if Albert decided to return to Africa now that the war is over and provide his medical attention to the people in that continent. This time, however, he’s not going alone but will have an assiduous companion with him and it’s a person who can’t sleep right now but is writing her thoughts in this diary.
__________________
Thank you Myra for sharing your story with us too 🤗 I didn’t expect one from you too, but of course the more the merrier 👏
Tbh, I was a bit divided about it but then I thought, “Why not?”. I’m curious to know which of these entries is closest to the narrative you had in mind. Guess we’ll have to wait until this coming Sunday to find out.😊
Yes please be patient, @Myra 🤗
Now that I look back I’m relieved my criteria is “the closest one to the narrative I had in mind”. All the entries are excellent, so the one I’ve selected does not necessarily mean the others are not as good. You know what I mean? 😉
I agree with you. All the entries I’ve read are well-written without being too long or too short. Whichever one you select, will be ace. Besides, you had already specified that you’re going to choose the one which happens to be closest to what you had in mind.😎
Thank you for this opportunity, Ms Puddle. IMO, your drawing has been inspired by Candy’s last letter to Albert where she recollects those intensely emotional moments they shared at Lakewood. I think his warm embrace came as a pleasant surprise to her to the point where she can’t sleep and wants to write about it in her diary. My story is just a paragraph long and it centers on that moment when he held her in his arms. Actions speak louder than words.😉
“Without even realizing it, I was swept into Albert’s arms when I felt that my legs could no longer support me as I was overcome with grief standing there at that field where Anthony had lost his life at such a young age. Albert’s initiative came as a surprise to me even during that sorrowful moment because he had never acted that way before. It was me who always ran into his arms and sought comfort in him. This time, however, it was him who took me into his strong arms but in such a gentle and tender way. He did not do this only because he wanted to comfort me but because he also sought comfort from me which I gave to him wholeheartedly. This is really the first time this has ever happened between us and, above all, it’s the first time I felt something different when enveloped in his warm embrace which kept me nestled like a bird seeking shelter from the torrential rain. I had wrapped my arms so tightly around his torso and weeping so profusely that I must have ruined his fine shirt. He didn’t seem to mind as he not only accepted my tight embrace but reciprocated it with equivalent intensity. Without saying much, we shared our grief, guilt and inner turmoil which we had both kept inside our souls for far too long. We didn’t need to seek forgiveness from others or from each other but from our own selves as we were not to blame for this tragic accident which had claimed Anthony’s life. For the first time, I had bid my true farewell to Anthony without being forced into it but because I wanted to liberate myself from years of accumulated guilt burdening my psyche. I wanted Albert to be liberated from his guilt too because it wasn’t his fault. How could anyone have predicted that such a horrific event would have unfolded within a fraction of a second? I wanted to comfort Albert that moment as he had always comforted me throughout these years but I was lost for words. All I did was cry incessantly locking my arms around Albert’s firm body. My head was pressing against his chest to the point where I could hear his heart beating rapidly. I could hear my heart beating just as fast. I’ll never forget the fragrance emanating from him. I don’t know whether he was wearing cologne or if it was the wind carrying the scent of the roses encircling us but I felt that our bodies had become one just like our inner pain and suffering. I wanted the pain to end but not our embrace. As usual, however, Albert was the one who tried to assume the role of the sensible being and pulled back albeit gently. He wiped the tears from my eyes with his long pearl-white fingers and looked at me with those sky-blue eyes of his. He then proposed we go back into the study room as it was getting dark. He was worried that I would catch a cold because the temperature had fallen. But for me, all I could feel was infinite warmth and tenderness in the arms of the man who means the world to me and I want him by my side all the time for the rest of my life.”
Hello @Anita, I got two from you. Since they are quite similar, I’m guessing this is the one to be submitted? Thank you 🤗
Thank you for this opportunity, Ms Puddle. IMO, your drawing has been inspired by Candy’s last letter to Albert where she recollects those intensely emotional moments they shared at Lakewood. I think his warm embrace came as a pleasant surprise to her to the point where she can’t sleep and wants to write about it in her diary. My story is just a paragraph long and it centers on that moment when he held her in his arms. Actions speak louder than words.😉
“Without even realizing it, I was swept into Albert’s arms when I felt that my legs could no longer support me as I was overcome with grief standing there at that field where Anthony had lost his life at such a young age. Albert’s initiative came as a surprise to me even during that sorrowful moment because he had never acted that way before. It was me who always ran into his arms and sought comfort in him. This time, however, it was him who took me into his strong arms but in such a gentle and tender way. He did not do this only because he wanted to comfort me but because he also sought comfort from me which I gave to him whole-heatedly. This is really the first time this has ever happened between us and, above all, it’s the first time I felt something different when enveloped in his warm embrace which kept me nestled like a bird seeking shelter from the torrential rain. I had wrapped my arms so tightly around his torso and weeping so profusely that I must have ruined his fine shirt. He didn’t seem to mind as he not only accepted my tight embrace but reciprocated it with equivalent intensity. Without saying much, we shared our grief, guilt and inner turmoil which we had both kept inside our souls for far too long. We didn’t need to seek forgiveness from others or from each other but from our own selves as we were not to blame for this tragic accident which had claimed Anthony’s life. For the first time, I had bid my true farewell to Anthony without being forced into it but because I wanted to liberate myself from years of accumulated guilt burdening my psyche. I wanted Albert to be liberated from his guilt too because it wasn’t his fault. How could anyone have predicted that such a horrific event would have unfolded within a fraction of a second? I wanted to comfort Albert that moment as he had always comforted me throughout these years but I was lost for words. All I did was cry incessantly locking my arms around Albert’s firm body. My head was pressing against his chest to the point where I could hear his heart beating rapidly. I could hear my heart beating just as fast. I’ll never forget the fragrance emanating from him. I don’t know whether he was wearing cologne or if it was the wind carrying the scent of the roses encircling us but I felt that our bodies had become one just like our inner pain and suffering. I wanted the pain to end but not our embrace. As usual, however, Albert was the one who tried to assume the role of the sensible being and pulled back albeit gently. He wiped the tears from my eyes with his long pearl-white fingers and looked at me with those sky-blue eyes of his. He then proposed we go back into the study room as it was getting dark. He was worried that I would catch a cold because the temperature had fallen. But for me, all I could feel was infinite warmth and tenderness in the arms of the man who means the world to me and I want him by my side all the time for the rest of my life.”
Hello Ms Puddle,
My entry focuses on the ways in which Candy reminisces Albert’s lovely smile and voice. She doesn’t want letters from him anymore but to see him and hear his voice again.
Dear Diary,
Even though I’m always excited to receive Albert’s letters, I can’t help but express my yearning to see him in person again. This distance between us is becoming more and more unbearable. While I’m so grateful that Ms Pony and Sister Lane have accepted my return and my job at the Happy Clinic is so fulfilling, there is a void which cannot be filled. I had already found bliss via living together with Albert at the Magnolia to such an extent that I couldn’t imagine my life being otherwise. We may have pretended to be brother and sister but that never mattered to me because I am not concerned with what others think. What matters to me is how I perceived Albert and as I’m always true to my heart, I will spell it out that Albert is profoundly special to me and my experiences with him are the most important in my life. The letters I exchange with Albert bring so much warmth and elation to me; by the time I receive a letter from Albert and read it immediately, I rush to write a response to him and then await impatiently for his next letter. It’s like a cycle which is so exhilarating but it also creates a form of melancholy because Albert’s physical presence is still missing and horrendously missed.
Whenever I read Albert’s letters, I always envision his captivating smile and soothing voice. No matter how vivid my imagination, however, his absence cannot be compensated. Albert and I shared many a beautiful moment at the Magnolia where we would sit by the fireplace savoring a glass of wine after our meal and discuss so many topics. I felt so smart engaging in discussions with him ranging from politics to more personal matters. Albert is an avid reader and he would always try to encourage me to read more literary texts instead of the rather cheesy romances I used to read in bi-monthly magazines. If I know a bit more about English and French literature, it’s definitely thanks to him. Strangely enough, I had never found it odd that a ‘vagabond’ would muster such depth of knowledge in so many fields because I was convinced that his shabby clothes never represented him. His gentle voice and elegant manners constantly betrayed the fact that he derived from a posh background. I was curious to know the reasons why he had decided to abandon his comfortable life and become a world traveler. Both his voice and his smile helped me realize that Albert is not who he seems or wants to be. His harmonious facial features accentuated his radiant smile and vice-versa. My entire being would be overwhelmed with excitement whenever he greeted me with that lovely smile which was more akin to a sunbeam. I couldn’t wait getting home from work to see him again and when it was his night shift, I would wait for his return just to see him walk through the door and bestow that signature smile of his.
Those days we had shared together were so full of meaning and beauty. Our letters bring me happiness but the cannot suffice nor replace our time spent together at the Magnolia. I want to tell him all this not in writing but when we see each other again and I’ll make sure that it will be very soon. Until then, I’ll have no other alternative but to reconcile with the fact that my sleeping patterns will remain disrupted.
-End-
Please ignore a slight typo towards the end of my story. To avoid confusion, I meant to write: “Our letters bring me happiness but that cannot suffice nor replace our time spent together at the Magnolia.”
Thank you @Sarah for submitting one too! I’m so glad I’ve extended the deadline 🤗
Extending the deadline sure helps because writing a story worth submitting takes some time. Thank you, Ms Puddle.
Hi,
I wouldn’t call myself a fanfic writer but since there’s a first time for everything, I guess I could try it out but I’m keeping it just a few paragraphs long. This extract isn’t so much a diary entry as it is Candy’s unsent letter to Albert or, alternatively, the burning questions Candy would have wanted to ask Albert but she doesn’t want to impose or appear indiscreet.
Dear Albert,
I wonder when you’ll decide to speak more about yourself instead of just listening to my ramblings. Every time I try to direct the discussion to you and your life, you always manage to find a way to adeptly change the subject and pivot the topic back to me. Although you know so much about my personal life, you have not once told me anything about yours. We had spent a lot of time together during your amnesia but there was no point in asking you questions about your past, apparently. However, sometimes I wonder whether you didn’t remember or simply did not want to tell me. Were there details of your life you wanted to keep hidden from me? Have you ever fallen in love? Were you in a relationship during your studies at university in England? What about Africa? Did something happen between you and your colleague in Kenya? Why did you decide to return to the United States? Did she also return or did she enlist as a registered nurse for the Salvation Army? Who was she? What was her name?
(Right..
I’ve got to stop with all these questions. On second thought, I’m not going to ask any of them because I may appear too desperate or inquisitive. You’ll probably react like a colt and run off again. I’m glad this is just a hypothetical letter which will never be sent to you.)
I’ll go for these questions instead (I’ll ask the other ones later on-mind you) which have to do with your memory and when you had regained it. I had been talking your ear off about the Prince of the Hill and I had even displayed his (your) badge to you. Had you already regained your memory at that point? I wouldn’t be able to tell from your facial expressions because you’re such a poker face. You’ve got so much self-control that no emotion ever seems to escape you. If only you were a bit more spontaneous. On the other hand, I find your resolve so intriguing and admirable. It’s your charm. The strong silent type.
What were you thinking of me when I was telling you about the Prince? You probably thought I was just a silly little girl. The truth is that I had never forgotten about that beautiful young man and I’m so happy that I have found him again. I’m even happier that I’ve spent so many years together with him even though unforeseen circumstances had often drifted us apart. No matter how many times we had separated, there was always something which would bring us back together. Do you feel the same or is it just me rambling again?
Till we meet again and hopefully very soon,
Candy (the insomniac)
Thank you @DanielleV for sharing your ‘unsent letter’ with us. 🤗 It might appear short when compared to the others but I never asked for long entries in the first place. 😉 Thanks again!
Yeah, I’ve noticed in the CCFS that Candy deploys a similar style whether she’s writing in her diary or writing an ‘unsent letter’, so I decided to do the same for congruence.
Yes it’s true Candy liked doing this, @DanielleV 😉
I’ve decided to write about how Candy felt when she saw Albert’s reaction when giving her back her diary after all those years. Hope you like this story @Ms Puddle.
———-
I’ll never forget the look on Albert’s face when he gave my diary back to me. I had been feeling apprehensive about him being the recipient. That had never been my intention. Especially with everything that has transpired between us, I came to dread the very moment where this topic would emerge. I used to talk to him extensively about Anthony and Terry but that was way before our relationship started to attain a different meaning. Inadvertently, I no longer wanted to talk about the past with Albert but the present and future. So did he but for different reasons. He never wanted to talk about the past because it had been so painful to him. I have the impression that he may even want to sell the Lakewood property in the near future because the memories are all too unbearable for him. Our trip together to Lakewood may have been a form of farewell to a place which comprises wonderful but also horrific memories. I don’t want Albert to sell that property but if he does, I will understand and support his decision.
When he took me in his arms while I was crying uncontrollably at the place where Anthony had perished, I felt the anguish in his voice in tandem with the pain which ran all through his body. I embraced him so fiercely that I felt my body had become one with his. We shared a single pain and that was the loss of Anthony. We also shared feelings of guilt. I never knew that Albert was consumed with guilt over the death of Anthony just as I had been feeling guilty. Yet, neither of us are responsible for what had happened and I’m relieved that we finally allowed all those bottled up emotions to be set free. We need to move on and put the past behind us.
The same goes for that diary I had written in haste back when I was only fourteen years old. So many years have passed since then. Time changes people and this is inevitable but also forthcoming. Those who are glued to the past are those who have condemned themselves in stagnation and monotony. By no means am I that same little girl who was so insecure during my studies at St Paul’s boarding school in London. I am grateful that I was encouraged to continue my studies in nursing by my friends and guardians when returning to America. My education as well as career have given me so much confidence and faith in myself. Most of all, I’m in debt to Albert who has always supported my intention to expand my horizons and become an independent individual. He is also so independent and I wish I could have had a fraction of his erudition and proclivity to higher learning.
Given the fact that Albert is such a smart person, I’m sure he has no doubts about my feelings for him. Yes, my feelings for Anthony and Terry were very strong and I loved them both but that’s in the past. Dwelling in the past is unhealthy and my purpose is to enjoy life without fear or regrets. Albert is determined to know where my happiness lies and I’m definitely going to provide an answer to his query. My happiness is here in the present and it includes my relationship with Albert. I don’t know how much that diary has affected him after reading it. To be honest, I wouldn’t be particularly pleased reading it myself if it had been the other way around and I had come across Albert’s diary about another woman-perhaps that pretty nurse he had mentioned when he was working in Africa. I can understand that he may be feeling slightly jealous because I also feel a bit jealous about that American nurse even though he had mentioned her only once. Nevertheless, a small dose of jealousy is alright in a relationship provided that it’s not blown out of proportion.
Because I know that Albert is going to give me an awfully hard time in talking about that diary, I want to put an end to any of his doubts, once and for all, and give that diary back to him. I haven’t even opened it. I know the content of that diary and there’s no need to read it as it belongs to the long and distant past.
I have a present and hopeful future to work on and I want Albert to be in it. I hope he feels that way too.
Since I can’t sleep tonight, I might as well quit dwelling in my thoughts and take action by putting all these thoughts and intentions in writing for my next letter to Albert. Then I’ll try to convince him to meet again so I can say all this to him in person.
Time to put all the ghosts of the past behind us and move on with our lives.
P.S. Please feel free to edit my story and add/remove whatever you want @Ms Puddle.
Thanks again!
Got it @Lynn and no I won’t modify your story or anyone’s entry. 😉Every story is unique and no doubt I’ll be having a hard time to decide by next Sunday. Thank you for sharing your story 🤗
That’s alright. I just wanted to let you know that if you want to edit my story, I’m perfectly fine with that.
Thank you so much for reading my story. I’ve read some of the entries and they’re so interesting.
Hi Ms Puddle,
This is my contribution. The title is “Ardlay Badge”.
On a mere whim, I handed over my precious badge back to Albert. He was startled at first but somberly accepted it without saying a word. He then whirred off and got into his car driving away without casting a single glance back at me. No sooner had I handed that badge back to him, than I instantly regretted it.
What had got into me? Why would I do something so foolish? During a party at one of Albert’s estates in Chicago, I overheard Eliza gossiping with her friends in that loud voice of hers that Albert became one of the most eligible bachelors ever since his identity as the Ardlay Patriarch had been disclosed. In particular, she was talking about a young woman who had just graduated from an Ivy League university medical school and was spending quality time with Albert and going together to many academic conventions in Chicago and New York. I hadn’t seen her at the party but based on Eliza’s description, she must be a very beautiful and intelligent woman. I know that Albert is that type of man who is attracted to women with brains and brawn so my inner jealousy was burning even more inside of me.
I hadn’t said a word to Albert during the party. I wanted him to say something to me even if it led to an intense altercation but that’s not Albert’s style. He would never stoop to that low level and I now acknowledge that my tantrums were silly and downright petty.
It became even worse. When Albert drove me back to the orphanage, we hadn’t exchanged a single word during the entire journey. He simply told me in a mundane voice that we have arrived and he hopes I enjoyed my time in Chicago. He got out of the car and as a true gentleman he always is, he opened the door for me to get out of the vehicle. Instead of thanking him, I opened my purse and took out my invaluable badge and gave it back to him apologizing for having ‘stolen’ it and that such a lovely badge should be offered as a gift to the woman most dear to him.
He then looked at me straight in the eyes with a stern gaze and without uttering a single word, he took the badge and drove off. I just stood there motionless having already regretted for acting in such an asinine way. It’s so strange. I had never been so jealous of Anthony or even when hearing the rumors about an alleged affair between Terry and Susanna. Yet, I completely lost it when I overheard Eliza mentioning that Albert is interacting with another woman. How did I become so possessive? It’s not as if Albert has any obligation to me. We’re not a couple and I am the one who had decided to return to the orphanage. Admittedly so, I do hold it against him that he never made any effort in advising me against that decision. Maybe he wanted me to leave. Not once had he ever told me what he felt about me. Perhaps I was nothing more than a mere friend to him to whom he felt obligated for having helped him during his amnesia.
I tried contacting him again via correspondence to rekindle our friendship and he was responsive but he continued to maintain the distance between us. Albert can be so friendly but he’s also capable of sending the message that he doesn’t want to get any closer without being rude. I don’t know how he manages to achieve that. Maybe it’s his formidable demeanor.
After about a month and when I was almost convinced that everything was lost, Albert showed up-out of the blue-at the orphanage to supervise the reconstruction of the entire complex. At least this is the explanation he had provided. When he returned from the ‘tour’ of the entire complex which my directors had offered him, Albert walked to my side and asked to have a word with me. He wanted us to take a walk outside in the fresh air. I accepted and as we approached a small pond framed with various water lilies, Albert then spoke in that lovely gentle voice of his that he’s taken my advise and he’s decided to hand his badge to the woman most dear to him. My heart sank at listening to those words but I was going to show some class this time and wish him and that beautiful aspiring doctor all the best.
As the sunlight was reflecting on his face making it even more radiant than it already is, Albert took out the badge and placed it over my palm. His tender gaze made my heart skip another beat. My hand must have been trembling because I almost dropped the badge. But it didn’t fall. Instead, I held on to it firmly and looked back at Albert. We didn’t have to say a word. We knew what was in each others’ hearts.
Thank you @Jesse I wanted to read this earlier but got held up by priorities. Yet I can finally tell you now I’ve read it. Thank you for submitting 🤗
Thank you @Ms Puddle for devoting your time reading my entry.😊🙏
Thank you for inviting us to submit our own fanfic. Mine has to do with Candy’s thoughts on Albert confiding in her about the many tragedies in his family as well as his own personal turmoil. Candy empathized with Albert’s suffering but she was also pleased that he had finally started to be more expressive with her and entrust her with his feelings and other personal matters.
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I can’t stop reading Albert’s last letter over and over again. Even though I am saddened to know about the pain he had gone through with the loss of his dearest family members, I am also grateful that he has finally decided to confide in me. I want him to trust me and I believe that I have earned his trust after everything we’ve been through together. I expect from him to continue to confide in me as I have always confided in him without any reservations.
Behind those serene eyes of his hides a man who has suffered immense pain due to the death of his most beloved sister. She was a mother, sister and best friend to Albert. I could only imagine what he had been through after her death. It must have been a massive blow for him and he had no one else to turn to for support as had lost is mother when he was born and his father shortly after. His sister’s demise must have been the reason why he slipped further into self-isolation and loneliness. Albert sought refuge in nature and wild animals because he felt disappointed with humanity and wanted to be away from it.
It really goes to show that money cannot buy happiness. Even amid all his wealth, Albert was deprived of affection and forced to live a life in confinement by concealing his true identity from the rest of the Ardlays.
I may have lived under meager resources at Ms Pony’s but I was so happy because of all my friends and wonderful teachers-Ms Pony and Sister Lane. We had very little money but loads of love and affection. It’s not surprising that Albert looks so happy and comfortable whenever he visits us. Ms Pony and Sister Lane know how to make anyone feel at home. No matter where I go or no matter how many difficulties I face, the fact that I’ve got a wonderful home to turn to with such good people gives me strength. I’m so glad that Albert is also sharing that same sentiment with me because I can see it in his eyes how thrilled he is whenever he spends some time with me at Ms Pony’s home.
I hope George will allow Albert to have a bit more leisure time so that he can pay a visit more often. George is my white knight but he’s too strict with Albert.
I’m joking..
I know that George is such a commendable person and Albert is perfectly right for revering him and being so conscientious in his career. It’s just that selfish side of me which wants Albert all to myself. If only we were living together as we did before he regained his memory. I know it may sound awful but there are times when I wish he hadn’t regained his memory. Much I as I love being back at Ms Pony’s, there is someone missing and that’s Albert. I don’t feel lonely because his soul has opened up so generously to me but I want it all.. I want to see him again and this time, tell him what I feel. I have so much to tell him and, in turn, I want him to tell me more about him and his life such as his adventures, world travels and what he wants from life. I also want to know how he feels about me.
Oh well..
I know I won’t be able to extract all that from him at once but with a bit of perseverance, anything can happen.
As for now, I’ll try to force myself to get at least a couple of hours of much needed sleep because I’ll be dozing off at the clinic again. Dr Martin will not be pleased.
Goodnight Albert and I can’t wait to know more about you and your extraordinary life. Whatever happens, we’ll always have that invisible thread between us which never breaks but keeps us inseparable.
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Hi @Leda I already read your story and thank you very much for submitting 🤗
How considerate of you. Thank you so much.😊
Have a nice weekend!
Hello Ms Puddle,
I’ve decided to contribute to this mental exercise and provide my own musings surrounding Candy’s inability to sleep. My story will delve into her musings about the three types of affection she had experienced with three people; the innocent and pure love with Anthony during her early adolescence; her intense and sexually-driven love with Terry during her mid/late adolescence; her intricate and nuanced love with Albert during her adulthood.
***Dear Diary,
In spite of my initial qualms, I’m glad I mustered the courage to send Albert a letter after he had confessed to me that he is the POTH. I had been meaning to get in touch with him earlier but I was held back by my own insecurities. Even when I was writing that letter to him, I was overwhelmed with fear and doubt in sending it to him and whether he’ll bother to respond. I was elated when I received his letter so soon. I would have wanted him to write a longer letter but it seems that he is just as eager as I am to maintain our correspondence and dispense with the formalities. Hopefully, he’ll be able to come and visit me at Lake Michigan so that we can discuss in private and at ease.
How I miss those days we had been living together at the Magnolia! I had never realized what a massive impact his absence would have on me until he suddenly vanished without a trace. All he left was a note and some money as a token of gratitude in my bank account. I never wanted that money and I definitely never wanted him to leave like a thief in the night. I had been searching for him all over Chicago and in the outskirts but to no avail. Going back to a house without being greeted by his beautiful smile and sweet voice had made my stay at the Magnolia unbearable. I really didn’t see the point in continuing to reside in that place since every nook and cranny reminded me of him. It’s ironic that I had never imagined that his presence was so important to me. His absence made me realize how much I needed him. Sometimes the absence of someone has a greater impact than his presence.
Albert’s absence coerced me to realize that my feelings for him were not as simplistic and straight-forward as I had originally fathomed. I had convinced myself that he was a brotherly figure to me who was always supportive in the good and bad times. Never have I trusted anyone to such an extent as I’ve trusted him-not even Annie and Patty. I had even entrusted him with my feelings for Anthony and Terry by providing details that no one else would ever be aware of. Albert would listen to me patiently without interrupting me. He would only provide his advice when I requested for it and I always did. His words of wisdom do not align with his young age. He is someone who is governed by logical reasoning but that is never at the expense of the sensitive and emotional side of his character. I doubt it if I have ever encountered someone who is so level-headed and emotionally balanced. Even though he has experienced so much pain and loss in his life, he has neither anger nor resentment in him. Instead, he stoically accepts the ups and downs of life and focuses on living with dignity. I admire that about him and my intention is to follow suit.
Yet, there are moments when I wish Albert and my feelings for him weren’t so complex. I long for those days of my childhood past when love was so simple, clear and pure. The moment I had cast my eyes on Anthony, I had immediately fallen in love with him. I accepted everything from him even when he became upset with me for running away from Lakewood. I knew his heart and I never wanted to upset him. Our relationship was so spontaneous without holding any reservations for our feelings. I was certain that Anthony would be the most important person in my life and I believe that he thought the same for me. If he hadn’t died, we would have probably been happily married and grown old together.
It was Anthony’s death which paved the way for me to meet Terry later on whilst travelling to another country thousands of miles away from home. As in Anthony’s case, my attraction to Terry was also immediate but different. Terry’s confrontational attitude made our relationship belligerent but also exciting. It was a whirlwind affair which was almost as brief as my relationship with Anthony. Something different had happened along the way, however, and that was my sexual awakening. As I was in the latter phase of my adolescence, I could feel my body reacting in a way unbeknownst to me whenever Terry approached me. I was acutely attracted to him but I wanted this relationship to mature through the passage of time. Terry didn’t appear to agree and lacked the patience to respect my consent. Back then I thought that his forced kiss demonstrated his love for me but I was wrong. Although I’m sure that Terry did love me as I loved him, there was a very dark side to his character which frightened me, especially his violent streak and utmost despair when facing challenging situations. I am tempted to believe that his self-esteem had been debased due to his upbringing and being perceived as a stain within the Granchester family. Perhaps if he had been raised with love and respect, he would have developed into a more stable and confident person.
As for Albert, I don’t even know where to begin. I feel as if I’ve known him my whole life even though his identity continues to remain a mystery for me. I had felt so comfortable with him from our very first encounter at Pony’s Hill. He looked so divine and ethereal that I thought in my childhood innocence and naivety that he was a fairy-tale prince. His inner beauty reflected his outer appearance with those blue eyes which had remained etched in my mind. His wavy blonde hair was as bright as the sun and his face seemed to shed a light of its own. His gentle voice had that uncanny ability to soothe and excite me, simultaneously.
I failed to recognize him during our next encounter because he looked so different with his long dark hair and glasses. He had grown even taller becoming more broad-shouldered and muscular. He was very different to the image of the lanky boy I had spoken to on Pony’s Hill. That grizzly beard of his when I met him again in Lakewood didn’t help me recognize him either. I was glad that he had shaven that beard when I saw him again in London because I could see his lovely face. He always had an air of elegance which could never match is outer appearance with that shabby safari jacket and those worn old trousers. Nonetheless, his beauty wasn’t overshadowed even by his vagabond-like appearance.
My biggest shock was when he was rushed into the hospital where I used to work in Chicago. He looked so worn and pale. He had lost considerable weight for his lofty height but his noble features continued to shine. I was startled to notice that his hair wasn’t dark but blonde. There were rumors circulating that he was a criminal but I had never believed them. I was sure that Albert had his own reasons for being in disguise which had nothing to do with any form of criminal activity.
The two of us decided to live together after I had convinced him not to search for his identity alone. His amnesia worried me and I wouldn’t let him go no matter how hard he tried to run away again. During our cohabitation, I enjoyed the heart-warming life we were sharing pretending to be brother and sister. I think that our pretending so much may have led us to actually believing it at some point. We were just deceiving ourselves but we didn’t care because we had each other and we had promised to share everything together-the good and the bad times. Albert didn’t keep his side of the bargain, however, and kept so many secrets from me. He continues to do this but I know it’s because of his character and not of ill intent. His secretive character makes our relationship even more intricate but I am determined to venture into the unknown with him because he’s worth the risk. After all these years, I can finally admit that I am in love with Albert but I will not tell him that yet. I want him to become more natural and expressive with me but we need a bit more time and we both have the patience to endure that. All great things in life take time and, most importantly, require patience. My love for Albert is nowhere near as immediate and straight-forward as it was with Anthony and Terry but by no means does it make it any less significant. On the contrary, my love for Albert and my growing bond with him are the most important experiences I have endured in my life. I hope he feels the same for me and I am willing to find out.
I won’t get much sleep tonight but I hope Albert is enjoying a beautiful dream.***
Thank you for your time in reading my narrative.
Thank you so much @Avon for submitting your story! 🤗 I won’t comment on it just yet but I do want to acknowledge this. Is this your first fanfic too?
Thank you again for your time, Ms Puddle.
It’s the first time I’ve written a fanfic based on the CCFS. I’ve written quite a few based on the ‘Lord of the Rings’ (J.R.R. Tolkien), ‘Fionavar Tapestry’ (G.G. Kay) and the ‘Time Quintet’ series (M. L’Engle). Those three writers are among my favorite.
Have you written fanfic based on other stores apart from the CCFS?
Hi Avon, are you still writing fanfics then?
I’ve read the Time Quintet series too but I still like “A Wrinkle in Time” the most. None of the movie adaptations can measure up. 🙁
I’ve tried writing about other stories but never published them. The only one I’ve published apart from Candy Candy was the Hunger Games but for unknown reason I lost my muse after watching the movie. It’s the only one that’s incomplete but I left it there collecting dust. I am thinking of buying the recently published prequel but at the same time I’m hesitating. I’m afraid it’s not as good as the trilogy. 😛
Until my PhD, I used to write a lot but workload and research hampered any further involvement with the fanfic pastime. The only hobby I’ve got time for are sports. I meet up with my colleagues and friends and we head to the gym or go to the swimming-pool.
From the ‘Time Quintet’ series, my favorite is “A Swiftly Tilting Planet” but I enjoy the entire lot. It’s so well-written and the character development is superb.
I haven’t read the ‘Hunger Games’. I’ve watched the movie but I found it rather mediocre.
If you haven’t read it yet, I would recommend a trilogy by Lewis Grassic Gibbon called the ‘Scots Quair’. The first novel is my favorite which is called “The Sunset Song”. The other two novels-“Cloud Howe” and “Grey Granite” are worth reading but below par when it comes to the first novel of this trilogy. There’s also a film adaptation based on the first novel. It’s worth watching.
Hello Ms Puddle and Avon,
I’ve only read the Sunset Song from the Scots Quair trilogy and it is a fascinating novel. It’s incredible with how much respect and thoughtfulness a male writer delineates the trials and tribulations women faced, especially during the early 20th century.
By the way, Avon, I have enjoyed reading your short story. You definitely have a knack in writing.
Thank you @Avon and @Lynn for the recommendation. I’ll add this to my ever growing to-read list 😉
Thank you for your feedback, Lynn. I decided to remove a couple of paragraphs because it was getting a bit long and I didn’t want the story to drag.
Hello,
I wasn’t planning on writing a story cause fanfics aren’t my thing but I reconsidered and let’s see if you like it. It’s short and (bitter-)sweet. 😎
I’ve called it “A Skirmish and a Confession”.
The story begins with Candy writing about a brief but intense conflict she had with Albert and how it was resolved with an unexpected confession. Candy can’t sleep over the fact that an array of powerful emotions were exchanged between her and Albert in such very little time:
“What happened today was mind-boggling and I really haven’t got a clue how to deal with it. Much of the blame should go to me (and to him) but I could no longer contain my frustration. Besides, his reticence in being honest with me has gone too far and I’m fed up with the ways in which he keeps on avoiding me. Even at the party in Chicago, he did everything possible to eschew contact with me. I kept on trying to talk to him and it seemed as if he was brushing me off to talk to others. I know this is not his style but I wasn’t going to take any of it so I finally managed to be alone with him for a short while in one of the study rooms of the mansion.
I didn’t beat around the bush but cut straight to the chase as this charade had been going on for far too long. I asked Albert openly, honestly but firmly:
-What is wrong with you? Why are you avoiding me like this?
He was take aback by my forwardness but he still managed to feign calmness. His voice wasn’t gentle but cold and distant:
-I’m not avoiding you. It’s all in your head. Now, if you don’t mind, I’ve got a multitude of errands to attend to as I have to discuss with potential investors who have been cordially invited to this party.
He was about to turn around and head for the door but I grabbed his arm-a gesture of mine which surprised him even more. He wasn’t pleased.
-I told you I have to go. We’ll talk some other time.
I didn’t let go of him. Instead, in a firm voice I asked him again:
-Why have you been avoiding me? I won’t be fobbed off with any lame excuses.
His eyes had narrowed and his facial muscles had tightened. Yet, he still managed to maintain his calm demeanor. I was expecting him to reiterate that same excuse but he didn’t. His unpredictability never ceases to amaze me.
-It appears that you know no boundaries when it comes to respecting one’s space. Even though I have always respected your need for independence and having some time for yourself, you never return that favor. Take note that you’re not the only one in need for some time alone. I am just as independent as you are-if not even more.
He was curt in his response and that froze me to the spot. I think that’s when I let go of his arm. Albert had never spoken to me like that but then again, I had never treated him with such possessiveness. I had to concede to the fact that he was right; I had never respected his needs as he had always respected mine. Perhaps I had taken him for granted because that it was he thought and he said it to me straight to my face.
-Listen here, Candy. I fully understand your frustration following my departure from our home and all the explanations I still owe you. I have reminded you many a time that I am planning to pay my dues to you and provide answers to all your questions. However, now is not the time as I am swamped by tons of obligations and affairs which need to be attended to as soon as possible. I have been away from my obligations for too long and I must honor my duties to my family and most importantly to my own self.
His words hurt me like sharp pins but my response was immediate almost superimposing and interrupting his final words:
-And what about me? Am I not included in your priorities?
His reply was also immediate:
-Just as I am included in yours.
There was a brief deafening silence between us. He smashed that silence with words I didn’t want to hear because they weren’t true but he believed they were much to my astonishment and in a way, I was responsible for him feeling that way:
-I’m not your reservoir. When you decided to return to the orphanage and work there, I supported you. Never have I complained or ever tried to impede on your aspirations. Yet, you fail to notice that I also have needs and there are times when I ‘need’ to be on my own and focus on my work and other factors which have got nothing to do with you. The world isn’t only about you or me or any other single person. If you want to be valued, you must also learn how to value others and not take them for granted.
At this point I was fuming with rage because he had completely misinterpreted my intentions:
-Never have I..
He warned me to keep my voice down but I didn’t listen. I was too upset.
-Do you hear me? Never have I taken you for granted (not true-I did in a way..)!
How could you say something like that?
-It’s the truth, Candy, and it’s an unpalatable one but I’ve got to accept it.
-No, it’s not. You’ve misunderstood, Albert. By relying on and trusting you doesn’t mean that I’ve ever taken you for granted. At least I had never done so intentionally.
My shoulders as well as my defenses had dropped. Deep down inside I knew he was right. Every time I faced difficulties, I kept running to him for help and support. Yet, not once had he ever asked for mine. Maybe this made me feel that he was made of solid granite which could withstand anything. The tone of my voice became calmer as I tried to rectify the situation as much as I could. Albert was drifting away from me and my stubborn stance was exacerbating the situation:
-For what it’s worth, I have never considered you to be some sort of ‘reservoir’ as you have just said. I would have expected from you to give me a bit more credit. Just as you would have never exploited me, bear in mind that I would also never do that to you either. Our paths crossed again at strange times when I was involved with someone else and you were a man without a past. We both needed each other and, arguably, I needed you even more than you needed me when I broke up with Terry in New York. You have always been my emotional support and that person I always seek his wise advice but that doesn’t mean that I have taken you for granted in any way whatsoever. If I have done so, it has been utterly inadvertent and I apologize profusely for having caused you any pain.
Albert’s eyes met mine which I tried to keep from welling up with tears but in vain. Both his face and his eyes had softened. His voice has resumed that gentle tone which I so adore:
-There’s no need to apologize. I am far from perfect myself. I would appreciate it if you understood that I’m going through a lot of pressure and your complaints aren’t helping me. All I ask from you is to be a bit patient for a while and respect the fact that I am a very busy man. It’s true that I have been avoiding you but not for the reasons you believe. At some point, we will discuss this further when we’re calmer. I think we can both benefit from this space between us and sort out our feelings a bit. What do you think?
I nodded and responded that I agree with him albeit reluctantly. Albert is not that type of person who revels in drama. In a way, he’s right. Perhaps I wanted to conflate him with Anthony and Terry, both of whom were far more overt in their emotional outbursts. Albert is a very different type of person and I still can’t figure him out. I don’t want to lose him though so I decided to share his sensibility and maintain a steady composure as well.
As we both decided to call it a day and return to the party, I took the liberty (and the risk) to ask him one final question:
-Albert, what am I to do you?
He turned around and faced me startled:
-What do you mean?
-What am I to you? Do you know that when you had left without leaving a trace I was so worried about you that I felt that I had become ten years older or even more?
He gave me a wry smile and replied:
-That wouldn’t have been so bad because I would prefer it if you were a bit older and not taken for my younger sister.
-But weren’t we supposed to be living as brother and sister?
-Is that how you felt, Candy? Did you see me as your brother?
-No, I didn’t. Besides, I don’t even have a brother.
-Good. Then we finally agree because I have never seen you as my sister. I had one sister and her name was Rosemary. That’s enough for me.
The look on his face that moment has ever since remained indelible in my mind to the point where I find it so hard to sleep. Those were the final words we had exchanged before heading back to the party where I returned to the company of my friends and Albert resumed his business liaisons with those prospective investors. At one point I turned my head to look at him shyly only to find out that he had also cast a shy glance at my direction as well. I’ll never forget the way in which the light fell on his youthful fresh face and azure eyes which looked like the clear sky after a heavy but thankfully very brief storm.”
That’s the end of my story. Be as ruthless as you want with your response to it.😎
Hi Valkyrie,
You’re spot on in depicting the dynamics in the relationship between Candy and Albert. Some fans naively and superficially believe that there was no passion or tension between those two main characters but that’s definitely not true. You’ve grasped that underlying tension and longing being formed between Candy and Albert after he had left the Magnolia and later on when revealed his identity as W.A.A.. This is pronounced in the correspondence exchanged between them in the Epilogue but Candy also drops quite a few hints about the tension and agitation she feels when reflecting upon her relationship with Albert in Section 3 of the CCFS. Just because there aren’t any forced sexual advances and physical abuse going on-as it had occurred during that disturbing May Fest scene-doesn’t mean that the relationship and mutual attraction between Candy and Albert lack in any form of passion or intensity. On the contrary, the passion and intimacy between two consenting adults who respect each other is far more meaningful and laudable than any raging-hormone teenager who beats up a girl because she didn’t give in to his advances. Candy had mentioned that there are many forms of love and the same goes for passion. Some folks like it rough while other want a relationship based on the foundations of mutual respect and consideration. To each to their own.
Thanks for sharing your fanfic with us. The dialogue structure makes it an enjoyable read.
Thank you @Valkyrie! As I said to others I’d better not comment on each one for now but thanks for submitting your bittersweet story 🤗 It’s not short at all. In case anyone else is interested to write please don’t feel obligated to write long stories. 😉
Thanks for your reply @Ms Puddle and @Anita. It wasn’t any obligation at all. It was enjoyable to write and I didn’t expect that as I’ve never written a fanfic before. Who knows? Maybe I’ll write another one some day.😎
Yay! Another new fanfic writer 👏👍
Sounds like fun!