Forget-Me-Not Chapter 2
Disclaimer: Candy Candy and all characters belong to Keiko Nagita, character images to Yumiko Igarashi and anime to Toei Animation.
First and foremost, all the favourable reviews and positive feedback to my new drawing of Albert and Terry and/or the first chapter of Forget-me-not are greatly appreciated! Your encouraging words have certainly motivated me to keep writing. 🥰 Before I present the new chapter, I’d like to quote Lynn’s insightful comments on Candy’s relationships with Terry and Albert. I couldn’t have said it better. Thank you, Lynn, for your contribution! 👏👏
— Ms Puddle
Chapter 2
Mr. Cartwright plans to show Albert the extent of the land he possesses by using a horse drawn wagon, but Albert has not allocated time for a tour. Georges will be back to pick him up after running some errands in the village. Thus, Albert reiterates his interest in buying primarily the land where the Pony’s Home is situated.
The landowner nods in understanding and proposes they hike up the nearby hill, where they can overlook the orphanage and the chapel attached to it. Once they reach the crest of the hill, it strikes Albert that things haven’t changed much since last time he was here, reflecting on his life and the meaning of it. He was all alone until a crybaby appeared out of nowhere. Time flies… she’s not a little girl anymore. Albert wonders what she’s doing at the moment. Is she helping inside the orphanage? Doing chores or cooking?
Then the landowner’s voice interrupts his train of thought, “You know, rumours said that… William A. Ardlay was a man… in his advanced years,” says Mr. Cartwright, taking short, quick breaths. “So I was expecting… someone at least my age… but look at you, you’re not even panting!”
Albert merely chuckles in response. Roughly half an hour ago, when he first stepped in Mr. Cartwright’s office inside his decent-looking ranch house, he noticed a confused look on the landowner’s face. With his white brows raised quizzically, he asked the visitor, “You are?”
With that, the blond-haired man shot a brief glance at his wristwatch before he introduced himself, “My name is William A. Ardlay, Mr. Cartwright. My assistant booked an one-hour appointment with you today. Is there any misunderstanding?”
Mr. Cartwright then guffawed. “Yes, I’m expecting Mr. Ardlay at this hour, but not a good-looking lad like you!”
Prior to this, Georges had been contacting the landowner’s secretary through letters and telegrams to arrange a meeting. Yet, Mr. Cartwright, now semi-retired, was traveling around the country to visit his relatives and would not come back till late autumn.
After shaking hands with each other, the visitor revealed he had made his debut at a news conference in Chicago months ago. Mr. Cartwright then replied with a frown, “While traveling I don’t always pay attention to the news.”
In fact, the debut had taken place before Candy left Chicago, but she didn’t show up with Archie, Annie and Patty. Annie said that Candy was not feeling well, and when Albert went home later that day, the butler apprised him, “Miss Candice was here, delivering this letter to you, Master William.” Even a fool knew that she had been avoiding him, which saddened him. As if that wasn’t bad enough, he found out she had written a formal farewell letter, informing him of her plan to relocate.
“So what brings you here today, Mr. Ardlay?” This question jerks Albert back to the present. “Why on earth would an executive from Chicago want to buy land in a rural area? Are you thinking of business investment or commercial development?”
Mr. Cartwright asked this question before, to which Albert responded, “It’s for personal reasons.” He also reassured the landowner he would pay out of his own pocket, so this was not a business venture.
Apparently, Mr. Cartwright is not satisfied with his answers earlier. While negotiating, the landowner shows reluctance to the business proposal as well; Albert has a hunch Mr. Cartwright is a bit anti-development, so this time, when being asked the same question again, Albert opts to disclose a bit more, “I know someone who grew up at this orphanage, and this entire place means the world to this person.”
The landowner’s face breaks into a smile before he asks with a wink, “A lady?”
Albert replies evasively, “I beg your pardon?”
“Never mind,” says Mr. Cartwright, grinning ear to ear. To the old man, it was basically an affirmative answer. “So what do you plan to do with the land?”
“I do have a concrete plan, Mr. Cartwright,” Albert begins in a business tone. “But it all depends.”
“Depends on what?”
Albert dodges that question, “I’ll hire a couple of consultants to examine the old building and give me a feasibility study based on my criteria, and then I will proceed from there.”
“Sounds like a plan to me, but whom are you proposing to? Your lady friend?”
This time Albert is prepared. “I’ll propose to the people in charge of the orphanage.”
“Makes sense to me,” the landowner acknowledges. To prove that he’s earnest, Albert describes his criteria for expansion in detail. No doubt the businessman is full of solid ideas, but it’s difficult for the landowner to imagine without seeing the building right in front of him, so Albert suggests, “Let’s stroll around the back of the orphanage, Mr. Cartwright. I can give you more details of what I have envisioned.”
When taking the descending path down the hill together, the young man continues talking about his vision. By now, the landowner is quite convinced the businessman genuinely intends to enhance the orphanage conditions for a friend, most probably a young lady, so Mr. Cartwright relaxes and somewhat drops his guard. He no longer worries that the land will be used for any commercial purposes.
As they are getting close to the backdoor of the orphanage, they observe a bunch of kids entering the Pony’s Home in single file through the side. The instant Albert identifies their leader, he feels a tug inside his chest, his heart pounding with excitement. Instead of her signature ponytails, she wraps her voluminous golden locks up loosely with a white bandana. It’s been months since he last saw her at the engagement party held at the Ardlay’s principal residence, but what resurfaces in his mind right now is nothing about that engagement party. Rather, he remembers the touch of her fine curls when he threaded his fingers through her silky hair. The next thing he knows, the mental snapshots of that unforgettable night send a rush of warmth up his neck.
That late evening, after waking up from a mistaken identity and remembering who he really was, Albert went home with mixed feelings. He recalled all his previous encounters with Candy, some of which she had already told him; he could also recollect the reason behind his firm decision to take the poor orphan girl under his wing. He meant to give her a much better life. Ironically, she was the one who had offered him the much needed friendship and trust, which gave him an incentive to keep on living.
Yet, having recovered, Albert did not feel like jumping for joy as he had anticipated back in the hospital. On the contrary, he climbed the stairs inside the House of Magnolia one step at a time to prolong the inevitable. After he unlocked the door to the apartment in slow motion, everywhere was surprisingly dark; as he entered the bedroom, he took in the sight with a pang of guilt. His roommate was fast asleep, lying face down on top of a pile of newspapers scattered around the floor. These papers were all about Terry and his bad news. At that moment, the thought of not informing her of anything concerning himself slithered into his mind. Nevertheless, he crouched down and gathered Candy’s sleeping form in his arms with a heavy heart. When carrying her to bed, he saw tear stains on her face, some hair strands stuck to her wet cheeks. Once putting her down onto the lower bunk bed, he stayed kneeling right beside the bed frame, staring at her thick, fanlike eyelashes under her tightly closed eyelids. He also apologized for hiding those newspapers from her, unsure if she heard him. Even in repose, her expression remained melancholic. He could almost feel her pain and struggles, and his heart swelled with compassion for the kindest girl he had ever met. He didn’t know what came over him then, but his fingers, as if of their own volition, reached out to tenderly wipe her tears and stroke the hair out of her face. That was the only time he had touched her in her slumber. Her skin was incredibly smooth, her hair so soft. How he wished he could somehow make her happy, but he felt so powerless when her heart belonged to a man unattainable.
It was at precisely that moment Albert perceived it wasn’t the right time to bring up his “good news”; how could he leave her side when Candy was undoubtedly still hurting from the painful separation? As a result, he decided to keep his recovery a secret from her, at least for a while.
Albert’s reminiscences are cut short by Mr. Cartwright’s exclamation, “Oh my, is that Candy? I heard from Jimmy lately that she’s returned to help out. Look! She’s grown to be such a natural beauty!”
The young man inwardly agrees. When living together as brother and sister, he was accustomed to seeing the pretty nurse without any artificial colours. She’s a girl with inner radiance, and her charming smile and captivating eyes make her endearing to the people around her. For the time being, she does look great without any makeup, wearing rustic clothes.
At the same time, Albert is not the least surprised the landowner remembers the orphan girl well. She has related to her roommate more than once about her adventure with Jimmy during the Christmas season several years ago, mistaking Mr. Cartwright for a servant working for the ranch. It goes without saying that she always cares about the orphanage a lot.
Yet, the young man feigns his ignorance, “Who?”
Just then, the door is closed behind the last youngster, so Mr. Cartwright says, “Well, too late now.”
His pretense is a spontaneous act. If the young man says “yes, she’s Candy” to Mr. Cartwright, he essentially gives away the name of his friend who grew up here. It’s not that Albert is ashamed to be her friend, but the question is, at this sensitive stage of their relationship, would it upset her to be known as a friend of William A. Ardlay?
This also explains why Albert has been debating with himself whether to drop by the orphanage to see Candy after meeting with Mr. Cartwright. What if she does not appreciate an unexpected visit? But just in case, the young boss did tell Georges to meet him at the orphanage later this afternoon. Speaking of which, Georges might be arriving in less than fifteen minutes, so the businessman asks after checking his wristwatch, “Mr. Cartwright, shall we resume our discussion?”
“Yes please, Mr. Ardlay.”
No sooner has he begun pointing at the path that leads to the village than both notice a woman with eye-catching blond tresses heading that direction, her back facing the men.
Albert’s heart constricts at the likelihood that Candy is evading him. What? She has already changed and is leaving? Why? Did she see me?
Yet, the discouraging thought actually pushes him to make up his mind. It’s about time he takes some action to reconcile with her. Hence, the young man utters in a rush, “Sorry for the impertinence, Mr. Cartwright. I must talk to her first.”
Without waiting for the landowner’s reply, the businessman sprints after her. Despite wearing dress shoes, he’s able to shorten their gap in no time. The lady hears heavy footsteps from behind her, and out of curiosity, she slows down and turns her head over her shoulder. The moment their gaze meets, he abruptly halts his steps. Hold it… This is not Candy…
Now that the lady is within an arm’s reach, he realizes he’s jumped to conclusions just now; this attractive lady with hazel eyes looks more mature even though she does bear a faint resemblance to Candy.
Meanwhile, the lady does not recognize the handsome man with short, wavy blond hair. Besides, his cashmere overcoat seems brand new, expensive and tailor-made; she’s never met any wealthy guy in her life. However, while she can easily say “Pardon me, sir” then move on, his striking blue eyes do look extremely familiar, reminding her of the man she’s looking for. Isn’t his hair brown though?
Yet, even with uncertainty, she spins around, staring at him with bewilderment painted across her lovely features. When Albert finally sees her face, something dawns on him. He finds himself in stunned disbelief that they have run into each other again in another continent, but he ventures, “Kim? Are you Kim?”
At the sound of his gentle voice, her eyes light up. Upon hearing her own name from his mouth, all her doubts vanish. Unable to believe her luck, she responds, her lips quivering slightly, “Al?”
=o=o=o=
Like Albert, Mr. Cartwright also assumes the woman leaving the orphanage is Candy. The rich fellow obviously cares about her a lot, even chasing after her in the middle of a negotiation. Hence, the landowner chuckles, shaking his white head. So I was right. His friend is an outstanding lady indeed. What’s their relationship? What’s his goal? Does he want to impress her with an exceptionally generous gift?
At this very moment, to the old man’s utter astonishment, he sees Candy running back from another direction. After talking to Miss Pony and Sister Lane, the girl darts out of the orphanage as though she was running towards the businessman. She doesn’t see the landowner at all, and Mr. Cartwright scratches his head. Wait, then who’s the other lady?
But Miss Pony spots the landowner and warmly approaches him, saying, “Mr. Cartwright, welcome back! How was your trip? Would you like to join us for tea and snacks?”
He likes to accept the invitation, but he explains, “I’m expecting a young man for some business. When he comes, how does he know where to find me?”
“Oh, is that right?”
“But thank you, Miss Pony. I think I’ll wait around. He should be here shortly.”
Miss Pony then responds politely, “Have a good afternoon, Mr. Cartwright.”
“Same to you, Miss Pony.”
While waiting for the businessman to return, Mr. Cartwright ambles around and takes a closer look at the building used as the orphanage, and it does look worn out due to lack of maintenance. As the landowner is pondering on the businessman’s proposal, the old man turns a corner and crashes into someone. The high impact causes him to lose his balance, but the lady beside him grabs his arms to prevent him from falling. Once he looks up, he’s taken aback.
“Candy! What’s happened?”
She promptly wipes her eyes, mortified to be found crying. “I’m terribly sorry, Mr. Cartwright. Please don’t tell anyone!”
Then she dashes off, leaving him behind to deal with the shock. What not to tell? That I saw her running away or that I saw tears on her face?
Before long, Albert returns and speaks to the landowner with a rueful frown, “Thanks for waiting, Mr. Cartwright. I’m afraid we have to arrange another meeting. My apologies.”
Mr. Cartwright raises his white eyebrows, but the businessman explains why he has to leave at once, pointing at the young woman standing about a couple of yards away from the chapel. Within seconds, a sleek, well-polished black Cadillac pulls over and stops right beside her; a black-haired man in a dark suit gets off from the driver’s seat and opens the rear passenger door for her.
The landowner, having taken a fleeting glance at the woman’s face, readily agrees, “Go ahead, Mr. Ardlay. You can book another appointment with my secretary.”
By now, the man with raven black hair has made his way towards them. Albert introduces him, “Mr. Cartwright, this is my right-hand man, Mr. Georges Villers.”
On his way to the orphanage, even from a distance Georges could see his boss talking to a woman whom he was unacquainted with, so he parked the car to check if everything was all right. As soon as Georges knew about the change of plans, he went back to get the car.
Then Mr. Cartwright and Georges greet and shake hands with each other. After that, Georges murmurs to his boss, “Sir William, we are ready.”
Albert swallows hard and turns to the landowner, his brow creased with regrets. “Once again, I’m sorry for the short notice.” The last thing he wants is to leave a lousy impression.
“No worries. The land is not going anywhere,” replies the landowner, chuckling. “See you another time.”
“Yes, definitely,” affirms the businessman. Then he breathes out a long sigh of resignation and follows Georges to the car.
When the landowner can no longer hear the swish of the luxurious vehicle with a family badge on the door, he looks up and utters out loud, “Are you still there, Candy?”
Before the businessman reappeared, Mr. Cartwright heard some noises of rustling leaves and snapping twigs behind him, as if someone was climbing a tree, but now nobody is in sight. Thus, Mr. Cartwright scans the surrounding trees and speaks up, “Just so you know, I’m leaving now.”
He then walks towards the front yard of the orphanage. The kids are now free to roam, and Sister Lane and Miss Pony are minding them. After making some chit-chat with them, Mr. Cartwright questions, “I was told that Candy has come back for good?”
So Miss Pony invites him to sit down by a picnic table, and they begin talking about how Candy has been a great help all these months. The landowner keeps nodding, and when they are done, he asks, “Wasn’t she adopted? What’s the family name again?”
Once he hears the family name from Sister Lane, he’s intrigued. “Did you say ‘Ardlay’?”
“Yes,” Miss Pony confirms. “But Candy explains to us that she wasn’t adopted like Annie. The man who has generously provided for her is more like her benefactor. Candy has not met him until recently, and his assistant has been her acting guardian.”
“What’s his name?”
After exchanging a glance with each other, Miss Pony furrows her brow, saying, “We don’t remember, Mr. Cartwright. It somehow slips our minds, because Candy rarely talks about her adoptive family.”
“Do you know why she left her family then?”
Both women answer almost simultaneously.
“We wish we knew.”
“We are hoping she’ll tell us.”
Their near unanimous replies speak volumes. At this point, Sister Lane becomes aware that something is not right. “By the way, where is Candy? Didn’t she say she would be right back?”
Miss Pony smiles with confidence however. “I think it should be fine. She’s a big girl now, and she knows the entire area by heart.”
“True,” Sister Lane mumbles, her brow knitting together.
Candy’s teary face and glistening eyes flash across the old man’s mind. Nobody can be unaffected by that, and he feels pity for her. She appeared rather perturbed, and Mr. Cartwright has been wondering what exactly upset her. If appropriate, he would like to help, but he respects her wish and decides not to say anything. He also feels tired; he’s really starting to show his age lately, so he says after a yawn, stretching his arms, “I think it’s time for me to go.”
When he’s leaving, the memory of a certain Christmas years ago returns to Miss Pony’s head, “Oh I remember now, Mr. Cartwright. Candy calls her benefactor ‘Granduncle William’.”
The old man can hardly believe his ears. “William? William Ardlay?”
“Sounds like it,” replies Miss Pony, wondering what piques his interest about Candy’s adoptive family.
As the landowner begins a slow saunter back to the ranch, he mulls over the business proposal. If he refuses to sell the land, the old building will continue to deteriorate, withstanding the normal wear and tear. But if he sells this part of the land, the rich guy will possibly pay for the renovation or expansion to upgrade the orphanage. While weighing his options, the landowner can’t shake off the feeling that Candy’s emotional distress had something to do with the rich fellow today. Because of that, the landowner is a little wary about selling the land now. Even though Mr. Cartwright likes the fellow and his attitude, the fellow is an outsider who originates from one of the major cities in the country nonetheless.
Come to think of it, the young man is plausibly the grandson of Candy’s benefactor. Could it be that stumbling upon him today has ripped open the orphan girl’s old wounds? Are they in love? Is their romantic relationship being frowned upon or forbidden, so she had to leave? Or has he misled her into thinking that he loved her and played with her emotions?
But the young man said he would pay everything out of pocket, so the landowner reckons his speculations may be far from the truth. Perhaps the fellow actually wants to purchase the land and upgrade the orphanage for Candy’s sake. On the other hand, the lady without a name is seemingly important to the businessman too, so much so that he had to attend to her needs without delay. Interestingly, that lady and Candy look somewhat alike.
To Mr. Cartwright, it’s not a surprise the remarkably dashing young man born with a silver spoon in his mouth can charm any woman. Although it’s not Mr. Cartwright’s nature to be inquisitive, the last thing he wants is to be involved, directly or indirectly, in other people’s private affairs. As a matter of fact, once the land is sold, the businessman can practically do anything to fulfill his dreams. Who knows for certain if the businessman will keep his word about enhancing the orphanage? What if the young man is a wolf in sheep’s clothing, that he has a hidden agenda? If that’s the case, the future of the orphanage is at stake.
Last but not the least, the landowner cares about Candy too. He doesn’t feel completely at ease with the businessman, wondering if the reconstruction proposal is some sort of compensation to her. Therefore, if the fellow’s motive is questionable or his actions will further aggravate her situation, Mr. Cartwright feels responsible to protect the orphans, especially Candy.
=o=o=o=
Candy is still wandering around in the vicinity of the Pony’s Home, struggling whether to go back. It’s the busiest time of the day at the kitchen when Miss Pony and Sister Lane have to prepare dinners for the hungry kids; also, they must be worried about her by now.
Mr. Cartwright, in spite of his old age, is still mentally sharp. He could tell she had climbed a tree. As a child, every time an orphan left with his or her adoptive parents, Candy almost always climbed the tallest oak tree to get a better view of their departure. Usually, she was able to get back to normal soon afterward, but the day Annie left with the Brightons, Prince on the Hill was the one who alleviated the pain of Candy’s loss. Even to this day, whenever she remembers her prince’s dazzling face, she feels motivated to cheer herself up.
Today was an exception unfortunately. Being high up on the tree, Candy deliberately took a trip down memory lane. Prince on the Hill said she looked prettier when she smiled than when she cried, but as she tried to smile, she saw Albert leaving with the nurse and Georges. Though her tears had stopped trickling down her face, a part of her remained emotionally disturbed. Her mind was filled with questions about the nurse called Kimberly and the nature of her relationship with Albert. The problem was, Candy couldn’t quite interpret her own feelings. What’s actually going on in my head? Am I jealous or envious or what?
So she harshly reprimanded herself more than once. I’m not supposed to pry into his private matters! And who am I to be jealous!?
That’s why she can’t show up at the Pony’s Home yet. She’s currently incapable of faking even a weak smile, so Miss Pony and Sister Lane or the kids will soon find her behaviour abnormal; consequently, they will ask her out of concern, but Candy does not feel like lying or talking to anyone for the time being. She realizes Albert knows everything about her past romantic relationships while she knows absolutely nothing about his love life. No doubt he’s not obligated to tell anyone, let alone an estranged friend like her. That being said, Candy can’t seem to stop imagining things, despite her best efforts.
But she figures she will be out of this agitated state eventually. It’s just a matter of time. Somehow, she ends up leaning against a tree on Pony’s Hill, pensive. From her favourite refuge she can enjoy the spectacular view of the last hour before sunset, when the landscape is engulfed by the warm, golden glow from the setting sun, and the sky is painted with colours that range from pink to magenta and violet with fluffy cirrus clouds of similar shades.
There’s nothing more magical to Candy than watching a magnificent sunset like this, which always has a calming effect on her, like that evening when she was in mourning for Stear in a Chicago park. Back then, as she stood near the treetop thinking about Stear, Albert unexpectedly landed a hand on her shoulder from behind, which caught her completely off guard. She welcomed him to join her of course. As he sat down beside her, they began talking about Stear, and within seconds, Candy got a lump in her throat and felt tears stinging her eyes. Albert kindly pulled her closer to him by wrapping his strong arm around her. She willingly leaned into him, breathing in his familiar musk. The warmth of his body drifted across her shoulder and through her entire being, comforting her beyond words. For a long time there was no need to talk; their grief was mutual.
Presently, Candy is choking back tears. Hundreds of these vivid memories with Albert, including the inside jokes and shared secrets, were unshakably imprinted in her heart. One of the most cherished moments was the night when he came home and discovered that she had cried herself to sleep while reading a bunch of old newspapers found under the bunk bed. After being carried to bed, some of her hair was stuck on her cheeks, which was a bit uncomfortable, and yet she was fully aware he was right beside her watching her, so she pretended to be fast asleep still. But what transpired next was least expected and truly memorable. His warm hand gently stroked her face while his fingers carefully got her hair unstuck and wiped away her tears. After that, he left her side without a word, and she could not stop shedding tears of appreciation behind his back. This gesture of kindness, which touched the depths of her soul, reminded her of her foster mothers’ love and care in her childhood.
Unbeknownst to him, his disappearance months later had left a vacuum in her heart. She looked back nostalgically of the times they spent together, and she often recalled this particular moment, specifically his tenderness and the feel of his feathery touch. She kept renting the apartment, hoping he would suddenly show up one day, and the constant longing deep inside her drove her to blindly hop on a train to go to Rockstown.
Needless to say, the mere sight of Albert this afternoon proves that her attempts to fight her feelings all these months have been futile. Because of this brief encounter, at one point Candy even regretted leaving Chicago, and yet, after she cleared her head, she concluded moving back to the Pony’s Home was still the right decision. For one thing, it’s too lonely to live in that apartment by herself. For another, she has zero interest in moving into the Ardlay’s residence, not to mention nobody has hinted about this at all. In other words, staying in Chicago will likely make it more difficult for her to adjust to her new life without him.
All of a sudden, Candy senses being observed. Guided by her instinct, she twirls in the right direction. The very second she notices the man standing not very far away, she draws in an audible gasp of stupefaction, her face flushing. An awkward silence ensues. The lady is at a loss how she ought to react, and the man is acutely embarrassed to be caught in the act. Never has he felt so on edge before. He had no intention to intrude on her privacy, but he was mesmerized and could not help staring at her amazing looks, her wistful eyes literally sparkling under the dramatic sunlight.
At this moment, he only hopes that he has not offended her, so he braces himself to break the silence, “I just want to know you’re safe. Sorry to interrupt your solitude. Please excuse me.”
After that, he turns on his heel and walks away with swift strides. It’s only then that she awakes from her stupor and shouts at the top of her lungs, “Albert!”
She has no idea how much it means to him to hear her call him by his middle name again.
=o=o=o=
Writer’s note:
Thank you for reading! I hope you liked the new chapter as much as I enjoyed writing it. Again, this story is mainly inspired by Candy Candy Final Story and the manga version.
Also, my appreciation goes to Lakewood for providing links to several references for my question about the age of majority. For your interest, for this fanfic I assume Candy’s birthday is May 1898, and she (aged 16) started living with Albert possibly in the Fall after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria on June 28, 1914, the spark that ignited World War I.
In Candy Candy Final Story (CCFS), Patty wrote about Stear in her letter to Candy and stated that US was seemingly joining the allies. It’s a known fact that the United States declared war on Germany on April 4, 1917. Perhaps the letter was written some time between January (when the Sussex pledge was violated) and April in 1917.
In that letter Albert was still living with Candy as the amnesiac patient. Based on the manga, Albert vanished in Candy’s life not long after Stear’s funeral, and this is likely the case in CCFS as well. For this fanfic, it’s purely my own imagination that Candy discovered Albert’s true identity in late spring of 1917 and moved back to the orphanage in early summer. By then Candy should have turned nineteen years old. If you think this does not make any sense or if you spot any mistake in this chapter, please kindly let me know. Thank you in advance!
P.S. Soon after I published this chapter, someone sent me a private message of a long list of questions regarding some rumours circulating online about Albert in Candy Candy. Some fans claimed that the main character Albert was created by the manga artist Yumiko Igarashi rather than the author Keiko Nagita herself or something like that. I skimmed through these questions only because I’m not in the least interested in dealing with these groundless rumours, which are laughable to say the least. 😀 That being said, I’m truly thankful to Leda and Michelle for providing their insights just in time. You practically came to my rescue, my friends! Thank you very much for your contributions too! 🤩
Dear Ms Puddle,
Thank you for resuming your creative content with regards to writing and drawing. It’s always a pleasure receiving further updates.
I have enjoyed reading your most recent story and I have also found some time to catch up with your previous stories posted on your forum. Based on my reading of your work so far, I would say that “Peculiar Relationship” is by fay one of my favourite. However, there are so many others which I find just as rewarding to read such as “LNF”.
Most grateful for your contributions and I anticipate further discussions with you as your perspectives are sensibly balanced, rational and intelligent. Your forum is a refreshing exception to various sordid and toxic ones slithering about. Your integrity and class definitely do not go unnoticed; on the contrary the educated and respectable critical readers of the CC community know how to appreciate your hard work and the high calibre of your character.
With Kind Regards and Many Thanks.
Apparently, I meant to say [..by far one of my favourite..]. Pardon for that minor typing error and thank you again for your time.
Thank you so much @Chiaroscuro for your kind words and positive feedback, and most of all, reading my fanfics❣️
So glad you like “Peculiar Relationship” too. Some of my favourite fanarts are dedicated to this fanfic as well. 🤗 “Love Never Fails” is my longest and will always be special to me. 🥰
Have you ever considered drawing George? He’s arguably the most underrated character in the novel but I regard him as one of the most complex too. I’ve been reading from various online sources that the older versions of this novel had devoted extensive material concerning his youth and especially his unrequited love for Rosemary. Is this true? Whilst he being held in very high esteem in the new novel (even the rather cranky Aunt Elroy reveres him), it appears that much of his past and his character have been left to the imagination of the reader.
And here’s another typing error-or rather, omission..
The final sentence needs a verb, apparently:
[..Whilst he is being held in very high esteem in the new novel…].
No worries, @Chiaroscuro. I make mistakes all the time ☺️
Thanks for asking, @Chiaroscuro! Yes, I really like Georges myself and even wrote a fanfic from his first person perspective.
About drawing him though, I’m not sure at this point because the other artist and also fanfic writer Gosie has done excellent works by drawing Georges a few times already. I won’t rule him out yet, of course. 😉
About Georges’ past, the story in the old novel, from my vague memory, is almost the same as in CCFS. The only differences are his unrequited love for Rosemary and his assistance to her elopement (which was also omitted in CCFS).
Have you heard of the rumours circulated decades ago that Candy might be Rosemary’s illegitimate child? Because in the story Candy was told that she looked like Rosemary, remember?
Perhaps because of that Nagita-sensei eliminated everything suggestive of their resemblance and if I’m not mistaken, in the novel nobody said Candy looked like Rosemary anymore.
Thank you for clarifying, Ms Puddle.
As for various rumours circulating, I really don’t bother with any of them. My only concern is what the author says herself as well as her team of authorized professionals such as the editors and translators. When I refer to the editors and translators, I’ll reiterate that the only ones I take seriously with regards to the CCFS are the ones which have provided official translations of Nagita’s CCFS text and have been endorsed by her which are three being (in chronological order of publication) Kappalab, PIKA and Arechi Manga. Everything else is just noise. As for those who claim to be self-proclaimed Nagita ‘experts’ or so-called ‘scholars’ of Nagita, they are laughable to say the least. Needless to mention that those terms are utterly ridiculous and pitifully pretentious. It’s such a pity that those who use such pompous terms to adorn their ego aren’t ashamed or embarrassed for continuously humiliating themselves in the end. That simply shows the level of their unlimited imbecility and delusional disposition, both of which are probably ‘incurable’. They are divorced from any form of self-knowledge and self-awareness.
Therefore, it doesn’t matter what sort of gossip or rumours disseminate online because they are not authorized, confirmed or endorsed by Keiko Nagita. Some delusional people can say whatever they want but no one in their right frame of mind takes them seriously.
You’re absolutely right, @Chiaroscuro. Sadly some fans spread rumours with intentions to confuse readers or cause the fans of the other side to doubt. The aforementioned rumour concerning Rosemary and Candy was one of them, which started decades ago unfortunately.
Hello Ms Puddle,
Wonderful chapter and artwork (I’m referring to the fanart from your previous post)!
So far, your new fanfiction seems to be engaging and I like the way you have pronounced the growing tension between Candy and Albert. Delving into their thoughts and inner insecurities further develops their characters into well-rounded ones and not mere caricatures or tropes. TBH, I prefer this version of Candy who is less of a simplistic “happy-pants” but more of a relatable and intricate character who is capable of getting a bit wary and angry from time to time. Who doesn’t?
IMO, I think that Candy was always too forgiving and tolerant of others who abused her physically and psychologically; she would easily forgive Eliza and Neil as she would easily forgive Anthony and Terry for having hit her. This could be a contributing reason for Candy having lukewarm-if not frigid-appeal to the younger generations of women because modern-day women would neither tolerate nor forgive anyone hitting and demeaning them. Some folks are stuck in the 70s and 80s but the world has moved on, thankfully, and so have mentalities.
I’m looking forward to the progress of this new story you’re writing but without that having to compromise your much needed leisure time. Are you planning on going on vacation this summer? I hope you get some rest and recharge those batteries.
Stay safe!
Well said @Lakewood!
In contrast to Candy’s previous relationships, Albert never abused Candy physically or psychologically. On the contrary, Albert always demonstrated utmost respect and gratitude to Candy.
Needless to mention that it’s a refreshing note to see that modern day women – at least those who are erudite and respect themselves – have zero tolerance for toxic male characters who abuse women whether in fiction or in real life. As for those insignificant and decadent aging few who desperately try to advocate in favour of such toxic male characters, they are nothing but pitifully wretched creatures nobody holds in esteem or any form of infinitesimal respect.
Apparently, you’re right about how times have changed even though some older folks are still fixated in the past. The world moves on, however, and that’s what matters. For those who lag behind and loiter, it’s their problem and nobody’s else’s.
Hope you have a pleasant summer!
Well said @Myra! Indeed things have changed, and the fact that more women are educated nowadays really makes a difference!
Enjoy your summer ☺️
Thank you very much, Ms Puddle! Enjoy your summer as well!
I appreciate your kind words and feedback, Myra. Have a nice summer and stay safe.
Hello Ms Puddle,
Wonderful chapter and artwork (I’m referring to the fanart from your previous post)!
So far, your new fanfiction seems to be engaging and I like the way you have pronounced the growing tension between Candy and Albert. Delving into their thoughts and inner insecurities further develops their characters into well-rounded ones and not mere caricatures or tropes. TBH, I prefer this version of Candy who is less of a simplistic “happy-pants” but more of a relatable and intricate character who is capable of getting a bit wary and angry from time to time. Who doesn’t?
IMO, I think that Candy was always too forgiving and tolerant of others who abused her physically and psychologically; she would easily forgive Eliza and Neil as she would easily forgive Anthony and Terry for having hit her. This could be a contributing reason for Candy having lukewarm-if not frigid-appeal to the younger generations of women because modern-day women would neither tolerate for forgive anyone hitting and demeaning them. Some folks are stuck in the 70s and 80s but the world has moved on, thankfully, and so have mentalities.
I’m looking forward to the progress of this new story you’re writing but without that having to compromise your much needed leisure time. Are you planning on going on vacation this summer? I hope you get some rest and recharge those batteries.
Stay safe!
This looks like a duplicate to me, right, @Lakewood? Did you have difficulty submitting your comment? I’d like to know if it’s a technical glitch or something. 🤔
It’s probably a glitch..
Hello Ms Puddle,
Wonderful chapter and artwork (I’m referring to the fanart from your previous post)!
So far, your new fanfiction seems to be engaging and I like the way you have pronounced the growing tension between Candy and Albert. Delving into their thoughts and inner insecurities further develops their characters into well-rounded ones and not mere caricatures or tropes. TBH, I prefer this version of Candy who is less of a simplistic “happy-pants” but more of a relatable and intricate character who is capable of getting a bit weary and angry from time to time. Who doesn’t?
IMO, I think that Candy was always too forgiving and tolerant of others who abused her physically and psychological; she would easily forgive Eliza and Neil as she would easily forgive Anthony and Terry for having hit her. This could be a contributing reason for Candy having lukewarm-if not frigid-appeal to the younger generations of women because modern-day women would neither tolerate for forgive anyone hitting and demeaning them. Some folks are stuck in the 70s and 80s but the world has moved on, thankfully, and so have mentalities.
I’m looking forward to the progress of this new story you’re writing but without that having to compromise your much needed leisure time. Are you planning on going on vacation this summer? I hope you get some rest and recharge those batteries.
Stay safe!
Hello @Lakewood, thank you so much for your positive feedback regarding my fanfic and fanart❣️
To me, Candy is already more human in CCFS, where she’s actually angry at Albert when she discovered his identity. In the manga, it’s a very touching episode filled with beautiful illustrations, but Candy forgave Albert at once about lying to her. I guess back then Nagita-sensei was really pressured to end the story soon?
About Candy’s forgiveness to Anthony and Terry, I absolutely agree with you. I think her love for those two is part of the reason. It’s the case for many women, even nowadays, when dealing with their abusive partners, not necessarily in North America but in Asia. Cultures still play significant roles, unfortunately.
Thank you for asking about my vacation plan. I don’t know yet, because the current situation is still unstable. Perhaps I’ll think about road trips. 😉
Take care and stay safe too, my friend 🤗
Unfortunately, some women are too tolerant and, even worse, they tend to blame themselves for being victims of abuse. Some go as far as to believe that they deserved being hit as in Candy’s case where she kept on trying to pardon Anthony and Terry for having hit her. In both cases and especially in Anthony’s case, Candy believed that she deserved to be hit because Anthony was worried about her after she had run away. This is absolutely unacceptable because no one has the right to exert any form of physical and/or psychological abuse no matter how worried or stressed or ‘concerned’ he/she is. Abuse is abuse irrespective of the impetus or driving force behind it. Best to call it what it is. Therefore, nobody has the right to abuse another person and there are so many other ways to express one’s concern for someone else. Hitting someone does not mean love or concern; it means utmost disrespect, abuse and violence. End of.
That’s exactly the case @Lakewood and it appears that Candy remains way too tolerant when it comes to such forms of abuse in all versions of this story-manga, anime and novel.
Perhaps the TOEI producers tried to modernize Candy a bit by making her less tolerant to such toxic masculinity and also by trying to convert her character into a more empowered and feminist one given the fact that the anime was addressing a 1980s instead of 1970s audience.
It’s a pity though that Nagita made no effort to modernize and empower Candy, however, even though she had the liberty to do so being the sole author and exclusive intellectual property owner of this story. Apparently, certain mindsets do not manage to change and keep up with our progressive times even if they have all the available opportunities to do so.
You’re making an excellent point and it could also explain the reason why the anime version of Candy’s character had a stronger and far more widespread appeal than the other versions.
A similar situation has occurred in other stories as well such as the “Lord of the Rings” and “Last of the Mohicans”. In the film version of LOTR, Arwen’s character is far more dynamic and resourceful than the original text. Accordingly, the film version of the LOTM paints Cora in a more independent and rebellious light, as opposed to the original text where she’s more shy and timid.
It’s often the case where subsequent versions of an original text not only receive equivalent but even greater acclaim. It’s ironic but not impossible. In the “Last of the Mohicans”, for example, most critics consider the film to be superior in terms of character development than the original text by Cooper. In this case, it seems that the director of the film has surpassed the author of the original text. Such a phenomenon does not constitute an isolated case.
Not isolated cases at all! On the contrary, there are many instances where the movie surpasses the novel. Even though I prefer reading the original text to watching the movie, there are quite a few movies which turned out to be much better than the novel it was originally based on. Naming but only a few, I would add the following movies to the two you’ve already mentioned:
1. The Godfather;
2. The Shining;
3. Misery;
4. No Country for Old Men;
5. Blade-Runner.
However, I do consider the Lord of the Rings trilogy to be a literary masterpiece which the movie, albeit close to perfection in terms of visuals, could never come close. Nonetheless, Peter Jackson did a fine job with Tolkien’s grand tale of Middle-Earth and I agree with you that his depiction of Arwen is different to the original (textual) one. I think that Arwen’s character in the movie is closer to Eowyn’s character in the trilogy.
I would agree with both of you and add another book by Stephen King which turned out to be much better as a film production which is “Christine”. Not that King isn’t an adept writer. On the contrary, he’s superb and one of the best in the relevant genre of horror and mystery. However, there are cases when the subsequent film productions manage to outshine the actual author.
In Nagita’s case, the anime turned out to have far greater popularity than the manga and novel put together. Let’s face it.. Had it not been for the anime, hardly anyone would have bothered even casting a simple glance at the novel. Or rather, this story belongs to the category of a ‘light novel’ as specified in the Manga Barcelona Festival in 2020.
https://tinyurl.com/3eve3h4w
Either way, what captured the attention and appeal of so many kids and adolescents back in the 1970s and 1980s were the visuals and, in particular, the ‘eye Candy’ of the handsome male characters in Candy’s life as depicted in the anime and manga.
Those who pretentiously try to downgrade the impact visuals and other forms of pictorial representations and cinematography have on people are simply deceiving themselves and no one else. There are instances where novels cannot stand on their own without the visual representation and Nagita’s CCFS is indisputably one of them. She even admits so herself in the “Author’s Note” of the CCFS and thus advices her readers to bring into mind Igarashi’s illustrations of her characters when reading the text. Unfortunately, the narrative techniques as deployed by the author did not suffice so as to liberate this text from the aforementioned visual impact and appeal. Unless the circumstances change anytime soon, the greatest majority of CC enthusiasts will remember and cherish the story of Candice White thanks to the anime. The manga would come as a distant second and the novel a very far away third..
Agreed. Much as I enjoyed reading Nagita’s novel, I can understand why it no longer appeals to the younger generations and it doesn’t appeal to the majority of older ones which had grown up with the anime either.
It’s beyond any shadow of a doubt that the story of Candy hasn’t aged well and the fact that Nagita decided not to provide a decent plot and definitive ending to the story sever the appeal of this novel even further.
For my part, I had no issue navigating myself through this narrative since I was already acquainted with the story from the anime and manga, beforehand. Yet, that’s the problem because this novel was supposed to disassociate itself from the anime and manga but it failed completely in both aspects. Needless to mention that this novel achieved the opposite effect in making the greatest majority of readers yearn for the anime and manga even more. The irony is rich in that respect.
Perhaps Nagita will revise her text and provide a novel of better quality content in the near future. Based on her interviews, she does not wish to write anything more about Candy but you never know as the material circumstances may change.
Nothing is set in stone.
Your example regarding the “Last of the Mohicans” is spot on, @Lakewood. At least in the case of James Fenimore Cooper’s book, it was purported to be more of a historical novel and less of an adventure story or romance. This is, arguably, one of the reasons why it was harder to follow than the aforesaid movie by Michael Mann; the book was apparently more ‘cumbersome’ than the lyrical style of the movie.
Resuming to Keiko Nagita’s 2010 novel, however, the issue lies elsewhere as the story suffers from a severe lack of congruent plot and it’s also utterly devoid of an ending proper. Not even the most famous of writers would have ever dared to pull a stunt like that by bringing such profound disappointment and horrendously embittered online feuds amongst the fans.
The question remains whether this mess ensued was made deliberately or inadvertently by the relevant parties involved in the making, editing and subsequent marketing of this novel. Much has been said (and interpreted) as many voices have been heard surrounding this debacle but there is no conclusive evidence to support any such claim or opinion.
Interesting thoughts, @Sarah. 🤗 But if I’m not mistaken, the anime version started about a year after the manga was first serialized in Nakayoshi Magazine, so the anime was still in the 70s. They finished roughly the same time in 1978 or so. If I have time I’ll double check the dates. 😉
Candy might be tolerant but she did fight back by hitting Terry too and scolded him harshly. The way she reacted to Anthony’s slap was such a huge contrast. 🤔
I couldn’t agree more with you, @Lakewood, especially about the victims’ mindsets. Nobody has the right to use any form of abuse, regardless of their excuse.
Speaking of which, I must say I was shocked when I first read that a gentle boy like Anthony would slap Candy out of anger. It goes without saying that he was still very immature. At least he apologized afterwards, and it never happened again.
Hello!
Pleased to read the second chapter of your updated fanfic. I am curious to know more about Albert’s alleged affair with this beautiful American nurse during his stay in Kenya. Even though Keiko Nagita wrote very little about her, it seems that this young lady had made quite an impression on Albert. I wonder why the author didn’t write more about her. To be fair though, Nagita did mention in her latest interview that she had intended to write much more about Terry and Albert (their past, in particular) but she had to disembark from that venture due to editorial constraints. That’s such a pity because I’m sure many readers would have wanted to know more about those two male characters which played such an important roles in Candy’s adolescent and adult life, respectively.
Nonetheless, I’m glad there are adept writers like you around to shed some light into these characters even if it’s fanfiction. Your literary approach to Keiko Nagita’s characters is always manifested in the form of sensitivity, intelligence and respect.
Best Regards!
Typo – “..which played such an important role in..”.
Hello @Jesse, thanks for reading! Your positive feedback is greatly appreciated❣️
I totally agree with you regarding Albert’s stay and the nurse he met in Africa. It seems the author implied something about them, and even Candy and Terry were very curious what the nurse looked like (in the manga version).
Thanks again for your encouraging words to my writing, and to be honest I don’t consider myself an adept writer. However, I’ll try my best for sure. 💪💪 Hope you’ll like how the story unfolds.
Take care and best regards! 🤗
Didn’t Terry and Candy also comment about Albert mentioning the American nurse in the novel too? I had the impression that the manga scene and novel were similar at this point. Do correct me if I’m wrong here. When I’ll get the chance, I’ll read that section again and let you know. Just bear in mind that I’ve got access to the translated novel but it’s an official translation as it’s the Kappalab one as published in 2015. I haven’t got the original text and, apparently, I don’t know Japanese. Therefore, I am not in the position to say whether the original text is slightly different or almost the same with the official translated texts.
As for you being an adept writer, the positive feedback you keep on getting by so many readers confirms this. I’m sure that your subsequent work will be just as awesome.
Best Regards!
You’re right about that, @Jesse. I should have said “also in the manga”. 😉 Yet, I prefer the manga version, including Albert’s letter from Kenya and Candy and Terry’s reactions after reading.
In what way was the manga different in that respect?
Hi @Jesse, I guess I really like the visuals provided by Igarashi’s brilliant illustrations for this particular episode. 😉
Who could blame you? It appears that Igarashi could convey more nuanced meaning via her illustrations than Nagita via her textual narrative. Irrespective of her controversial character and dubious practices, Igarashi is indisputably one of the finest manga artists of our modern era. She is truly charismatic and the absence of her illustrations from Nagita’s storyline has left a massive void in its wake.
Sigh… I couldn’t agree with you more, @Jesse. Igarashi has her flaws but I really admire her drawings and illustrations 🥰
It’s a pity that Igarashi’s greed and massive ego weighed in and superimposed her artistic talent.
As always, you have given us a wonderful piece of writing, Ms. Puddle. Your new story is very intriguing, especially since you have introduced for the first time the American nurse Albert met in Africa who seems to be a new love interest for him (or an old flame, maybe). Also Candy’s reaction to Albert’s new identity is quite interesting as it differs from the original story. You have developed a new possibility in your story. Candy is angry with Albert because he kept his secret from her, whatever his reasons might be. Besides, she doesn’t give him the chance to explain to her since she’s been avoiding him. Maybe that’s a little unfair on her part, but it’s natural. I can’t wait to see how their last meeting will evolve.
I’m glad you added that particular scene from the manga colored by you. One of the most beautiful and expressive illustrations of Igarashi. So many feelings depicted there. It’s a pity that some people can’t see it and keep deceiving themselves.
Thank you again for your hard work. Take care.
Hi @Fay, first of all, so glad you like the coloured manga picture I posted for this chapter❣️ Like you, I think this particular scene speaks volumes of their relationship, and it’s too bad some people choose to ignore the evidence.
About my new fanfic, yes, I’ve exaggerated Candy’s reaction to Albert’s identity but I hope it’s not too far off 😂 After all, in Albert’s reply to Candy’s letters in CCFS Epilogue, he did mention she had reasons to be angry. In her letter to Georges she also directly quoted Albert’s asking her for forgiveness again (with exasperation). I think in the official translations this part is different, unfortunately.
About Albert’s relationship with the nurse in Africa, l’ll write a bit more in chapter 3. Please stay tuned. 🤗
Excellent job, Ms Puddle, and I appreciate the fact that you take the time to share your thoughts and creativity with us even though you’re so busy. Your commitment and respect for your work and the CC community are indisputable.
The only “problem” is that this new fanfiction you’re currently writing is making us eager to know what’s next. Of-course, you should take your time and provide updates to your work-whether it be fanfiction or articles-whenever convenient for you. No pressure at all.
Thank you again, Ms Puddle!
Thank you @Halcyon Days for your positive feedback and highly encouraging words, considered you’re a good writer yourself 🤗
Hope you don’t mind the “problem” lol 😅 Appreciate your understanding and patience!
No “problem” at all.😉
Hello Ms Puddle,
This new fanfic of yours is quite gripping and the tension between Candy and Albert appears to be more pronounced than in the novel. That would make sense given that the young American nurse was not re-introduced in Nagita’s original novel. Had she reappeared in the novel as well, I’m certain that the tension between Candy and Albert would have been more severe.
The common denominator, nonetheless, is the complex conjunction of mutual feelings of apprehension and awkwardness between Candy and Albert following the revelation of his identity as WAA. This is in tandem with both of them struggling to come to terms with the inner realization that they’ve got feelings for each other which apparently transcend mere paternal or fraternal ones. In the novel, Candy is much more expressive than Albert and she admits to herself that even though she was supposed to be living with Albert like a brother and sister would have done, that was never the case. She makes it perfectly clear in the novel that she does not perceive Albert as a brother but as man who is very special to her.
That said, the author of this novel is giving her readers ample information that the relationship between Candy and Albert is proceeding into a different level which is a far cry from anything paternal or fraternal. Those who keep on repeating those same old junk arguments and lame excuses that Albert is like a father or brother to Candy are dwelling in denial and refuse to read the actual textual evidence as clearly indicated in this novel.
I would like to thank you for taking the time in producing such high quality fan-art and fan-fiction. I’m so looking forward to delving into more of your written work. Your contributors also do a fine job and offer excellent commentary surrounding the nuanced meanings of this novel and its characters involved.
Hello @Anita, nice to hear from you. Have you decided about the vaccines yet?
Thank you so much for reading, and yes, I did take some liberty with my writing this time. The periods between Candy’s discovery and the other events like Stear’s Memorial or Archie’s engagement are vague. That’s why I let my imagination run wild by involving the American nurse ☺️
About the rest of your comment, I couldn’t agree with you more. In short, Albert was clearly a man to Candy, not father or brother. They began as friends and pretended to be siblings, but her feelings for him undoubtedly changed over time. Like you said, Albert held a special place in her heart. 💕
Yes, I’ve already had the first shot with Pfizer. So far, no side-effects.
As for Candy and Albert, certain biased fans have no other alternative but to respect the wishes of Keiko Nagita for creating the character of Albert purported as a prospective suitor for Candy during her legal adulthood.
In Keiko Nagita’s own words during the interview held in Paris by PIKA in 2019, “..it’s up to Candy to decide whether she will be with Terry or Albert”. This statement is powerful as it eradicates all those inane claims that Albert was nothing more than a paternal or brotherly-like figure for Candy. None of that lurking and loitering minority of desperate and delusional fans can spin-doctor Nagita’s words because they are crystal-clear. It’s beyond any doubt that Anthony, Terry and Albert constitute love interests for Candy. The story ends with the reader never knowing whether Candy selected Terry or Albert but both male characters have the exact same possibility of being Candy’s partner or spouse during the Interbellum.
Wonderful news, @Anita! So glad to hear that you had no side effects after the first shot. Are you planning to get your second dose soon?
Regarding Candy and Albert, I honestly don’t understand why some people just can’t see they have developed romantic feelings for each other by the time Candy was an adult.
Yes you’re absolutely right that those fans should really respect the author’s own words and authority. It’s her story after all, and it’s clear since the beginning that Albert was one of Candy’s loves, never a father figure to her. Though she might have regarded him as a big brother initially, it doesn’t mean her feelings would not evolve. 😉
Very soon and my doctor is keeping a close monitor of my blood tests, especially with regards to the blood platelets. We’ll see how it goes..
Did you experience any side-effects?
As for Candy and Albert, their romantic relationship began only after Candy became an adult. There was absolutely nothing going on between them before that time; Candy was still trying to cope with her grief over the tragic loss of Anthony whilst becoming attracted to Terry; and Albert had his own inner ‘demons’ to combat in tandem with his own turmoil and escapism. That said, the two of them were just friends during Candy’s adolescence and nothing more than that. Neither Candy nor Albert had any form of romantic interest for each other during that time. Instead, Candy was torn between her mourning for Anthony and growing dependence on Terry whilst Albert’s main goal was to leave everything behind and pursue a new life in Africa, independent and free from all the ties of his traumatic past.
Yet, Nagita had other plans in store for both Candy and Albert and she brought them together following Albert’s amnesiac state. During their adulthood and having spend many years together, Candy and Albert eventually albeit unexpectedly and unbeknownst to them developed a mutual attraction and reciprocal love for one another. It couldn’t be stressed enough, however, that this romantic courtship began when both Candy and Albert were two legally consenting adults. I want to make this crystal clear for all parties involved irrespective of their personal preferences concerning the said CCFS characters.
It would be wise for all readers of Keiko Nagita’s CCFS novel to respect her indisputable intention which has already been uttered and specified by her which is the notion that it is up to Candy to decide whether she chooses Terry or Albert as her love interest and, apparently, it is also up to Terry and Albert if they’re still interested. In a consensual relationship, it takes both individuals to agree and want to further this intimate bond.
Hi @Anita, wish you all the best when it’s time to get your second dose. 🙏 I didn’t experience side effects after my second shot even though I was mentally prepared, because many of my friends have various reactions for their 2nd doses.
I couldn’t agree more with you re your analysis of Candy and Albert’s relationship and how their friendship evolved. May I quote you in my next post?
Pleased to know that you haven’t experienced any side-effects from the vaccine.
On a different note, you’re always welcome to quote my commentary as long as it’s useful to the discussion and analysis.
If you would like further references, just let me know.
Thank you Anita! 💕
Very intriguing chapter! This story is so vivid that it’s as if you’re watching it on Netflix.😹
Interestingly enough, Keiko Nagita had mentioned during her interview in Paris about a couple of years ago that she had always wanted to write much more about Albert and Terry but she would have to fill entire volumes of written work in order to achieve that. She also wanted to write more about Susanna and her achievements as a thespian, albeit short-lived, because she considered her to be a fascinating character.
Have you ever considered writing about Albert’s travel experiences, especially his life and activism in Africa? Nagita had wanted to write more about him but she was limited by the publishers to limit her work to up to two volumes max. At least this is what she had claimed during the said interview in Paris.
Your new story seems great and I can’t wait to read the chapters which will follow.
Thank you!
Awww, @Aurora, thank you! Your positive comment made my day! 😍
About the interview in Paris, it’s very interesting Nagita-sensei wanted to write more about Susanna. After all, the author made her die too young and suffer a lot. 🙁 Susanna might not be a beloved character, but I think she deserves better, IMHO. Eliza should be the one being punished, lol.
Come to think of it, the author could not exceed the limit, so Nagita sensei ended up sacrificing Terry but elevated both Albert and Archie.
Exactly! The fact that Nagita reduced Terry’s character whilst improving Archie’s and amplifying the significance as well as relevance of Albert’s character is indicative of this author’s true intentions. Since this novel has been written by Nagita and the rights as well as characters in this story belong to her exclusively, it is noteworthy that Albert’s character has been given far greater weight and importance in this new novel-especially with regards to his profound bond with Candy. Nagita has made her point crystal clear and those with a sharp mind and adept reading comprehension skills definitely understand this.
My sentiments exactly, @Aurora! I couldn’t have said it better 👍🤗
Hi Ms puddle,
Really enjoying this story! I have been binge-reading all your stories during this lockdown, please upload the next chapter soon 🙂
I have always wondered what happened to Albert and Candy’s relationship after Candy returned to Pony’s home to help out. Also love that you’re writing about Albert’s life in Africa, he has always been a mysterious character but I have no doubt he’s had interesting experiences travelling the world. As for the “young American nurse” he met in Africa, I agree that Albert probably had other loves before falling in love with Candy. It would explain why he was so mature when giving Candy advice about Terry.
Thank you @lalaland007 for your highly encouraging feedback and thanks for reading my fanfics ❣️ Nice to meet you here 🤗
At this point I still have not decided how much I’m going to write about Albert in Africa, but I’ll definitely write about Albert and Kim (American nurse). Please stay tuned. 😉