Follow your heart or family, part three, chapter 20

15 years later. Mary is 45, Edith is 44, Sybil is 40, Oliver is 21. Sybbie is 21, George is 20, Marigold is 20. Robert is turning 73, Cora is turning 71

It was an early summer day. The sunrise was beautiful. Cora sat outside with a cup of coffee enjoying the morning sounds. Since Robert stopped working, he slept in regularly. Cora didn’t mind she loved her quiet mornings alone. It was still a little bit chilly, Cora had her warm bathrobe wrapped around her. Her feet tucked under her, sipping her coffee. Life was good.

She felt a hand on her shoulder and looked up. She saw Robert’s face. He was getting older, as was she, it was clearly visible in his face. He was still very handsome and attractive.

Robert bent down to kiss her. “Good morning, darling. You were up early.” He sat down next to her with his cup of tea.

Cora leaned her head against his shoulder. “It wasn’t that early, dear.”

“Well, everything before nine, I think is early these days.” He chuckled.

Cora saw him shiver, she tried to pull her legs from underneath her to lay them on his lap, but she stopped when there was a shooting pain through her back. “I should stop sitting this way.” She moaned.

Robert helped her up from the couch. “We will go inside for our breakfast, it is warm there. Are you alright?”

Cora smiled. “I am. Just old.”

Robert laid his hands on Cora’s lower back, and softly massaged her. Cora moaned softly. “Thank you, my back is so stiff recently.” She stretched herself out. Robert’s warmth from his hands was already a relief. “What time is Sybil’s birthday party today?”

“We are invited from 14.00 o’clock.” Robert answered.

“I think I will go lay in the tub, after breakfast.”

+++

Robert entered the bathroom. Cora was half covered with soap bubbles. He could see the upper part of her body. She was still gorgeous, he adored her wrinkles. Especially those in her face. She had smiling wrinkles. Robert joked she smiled too much, and every time Cora had given it back that it was his fault. He made her happy.

“Can I join?”

When they moved in the house, Cora wanted to upgrade their bathroom with a large tub, with jets. She was sitting in front of the jets and looked up. “There is enough room.”

Robert got in and moved behind her. Cora rested her body against his. “This is still the best feeling in the world, being in your arms.”

“Is it not too hard for your back?”

“Not at all. This is quite nice.”

+++

When Cora and Robert arrived at Sybil’s everybody was already there.

“Donk!” Sybbie walked over to hug her grandpapa.

“I hoped you would one day stop with this nickname.” Robert sighed.

Sybbie’s face got sad.
“Your grandpapa secretly loves his nickname, darling.” Cora said fast.

“Really?” Sybbie had a smile on her face again.

Robert tickled her until she couldn’t stop laughing. “Of course (,)I don’t mind darling.”

Sybbie had grown up to a beautiful young woman.

George and Marigold came around the corner. Both hugged Cora and Robert. “Grandpapa, I brought my girlfriend today, do you want to meet her?” George said.

Marigold asked Cora’s attention to show her a new bracelet she got from Bertie.

“Girls and boy, leave your grandparents alone for a second, so they can really come in, and sit down.” Sybil said, while kissing Cora on her cheek.

Sybil had already got her present a few weeks ago. They had bought her a new car.

“Mama, can I come for dinner tomorrow?”

“You don’t have to ask that, you are always welcome home. I really miss you since you moved out. How was Spain” Cora cupped his cheek with her hand. Oliver just came back from six months working in Spain.

+++

Cora made fish and chips, she knew Oliver loved that.

“Why is he coming?” Robert asked while sneaking a chip out of the pan.

“Leave that! you will be full before we will sit down for dinner. I don’t know, maybe he just wants a home cooked meal?”

“Well, I can’t blame him for that. I never had a more delicious home cooked meal than from you.” Robert kissed her neck. His hands were on her hips.

“ahum.” Both Cora and Robert turned around to see Oliver standing in the kitchen with a girl next to him.”

Cora’s cheeks got bright red. “I am so sorry, I didn’t expect you this early. Hello I am Cora.” She walked over to the girl next to Oliver to shake her hand.

“Mum, this is Patricia, my fiancée.”

“Your what!” Robert said brisk.

Cora touched his arm. “Hello Patricia, welcome. I hope you like fish and chips?”

Patricia stuttered a little bit. “I do like that.”

“Oliver, do you mind explaining this?” Robert said.

Cora took Patricia by her arm and guided her out of the kitchen, she closed the door. But they could still hear Robert’s shouting. “My dear, I am so sorry for this. But Oliver never told (us) about you, it is quite a shock you are engaged.”

“It is quite a shock for me too. He asked me this morning and I wasn’t expecting it, but I truly love your son.”

+++

“And you never cared to let Patricia meet us?”

“Dad, I don’t need your permission to get married.”

“That is right, but you could have had the decency to at least tell us about her. Instead of just showing up and informing us about your upcoming marriage.”

“Dad, please.”

“So, we are lucky you aren’t married yet! And you do expect us to pay for your wedding?”

Cora walked into the kitchen. “Oliver, I think it is best if you go to Patricia, I need to talk with your father.” Oliver walked out.

Robert was steaming. “Darling, this doesn’t help. We can be mad, but the fact is, that he asked her to marry him. I would have loved to get to know her before that. But with being mad at him we won’t resolve anything.”

“I won’t have to eat!” Robert walked passed Cora and walked upstairs.

“Mama, I am sorry. I now realise this was a stupid move.”

Cora sighed. “Let’s sit down and eat, dinner is ready, we can talk when we eat.”

Oliver had met Patricia in Spain, she was working for the same company (,)and they instantly clicked, they were dating for 6 months now, and Oliver didn’t want to wait any longer. Today was the day they met exactly 6 months ago. Oliver was like his father, he cared for special dates. They had stayed the whole evening, but Robert didn’t come down anymore. Cora brought him a plate with his dinner.

+++

Robert was already in bed, when Cora crawled in next to him. Her back was hurting again, she would love to just lay down, but she leaned in on Robert. She brushed his shoulder. “Robert? Can we talk?”

“I don’t know what we could talk about.” Robert said without turning around.

Cora let out a deep sigh. “Please go talk with Oliver tomorrow and try to listen.” Cora kissed his cheek and laid back down, giving her back the must needed rest.

Follow your heart or family, part three, chapter 19

Cora arrived at ‘Galvin La Chapelle’. Edith had invited her for lunch, she loved lunching with her daughters. Normally she was the one to invite them, but this time Edith had sent out the invite.

“Hello darling.” Cora kissed Edith on her cheek. “What a lovely place you found.” She said while looking around.

“We wrote about this restaurant in the latest edition of ‘The Sketch’ and I just knew I wanted to go here with you.” She hooked her arm in her mothers and they walked to their table.

Lunch was amazing, Cora had dined in some fancy restaurants, but this one was definitely one she was taking Robert. “How is the business going?”

Edith let out a deep sigh.

“Troubles?” Cora raised her eyebrows.

“My editor. He just doesn’t like to work for a woman and last night I fired him. But that wasn’t my smartest move. I need to send the new edition to the printers tomorrow.”

“Will you manage?” Cora asked.

“Bertie just offered to come and help, so yes I think I will manage.”

“Bertie?”

Edith’s cheeks coloured. “A man I met a few months ago. We had some fun dates and I think I like him.”

Cora took Edith’s hand. “Darling, I am so happy for you.”

After lunch they had walked to Edith’s office building. “Good luck with your magazine and hopefully we will meet Bertie soon” She kissed Edith on her cheek.

+++

“How was lunch?” Robert asked when Cora entered his office.

“I had a good time, we have to go there one day together. Did you know that Edith is dating again?”

Robert’s eyes grew big. “No, are you for real? That would be fantastic, she deserves to be happy. When are we going to meet him?”

Cora smiled. “I don’t know yet, I think she wasn’t ready to tell me, but his name slipped.” She chuckled. “Are you ready to go home?”

“Just let me finish this, then I will go with you.”

+++

“This smells delicious.” Robert said while walking into the kitchen. He kissed Cora.

“Hello, darling. I hope it is delicious too, I want to give Bertie a good first impression.”

“Whatever you make, it is always divine.” His hands were on her hips, and he moved with her.

Cora turned around and wrapped her arms around his neck. “You need to behave tonight. We don’t want to embarrass Edith.” She kissed him.

“Mama, do I have to be at home for this dinner ?” Oliver said with an annoyed voice. He just turned 6 this year and was getting so big.

Cora got down and brushed his cheek. “Don’t you want to meet Bertie?”

“You will only talk about grown up stuff.” Oliver complained.

“Marigold will also be here.” Robert said.

Oliver breathed in and walked away.

Robert looked at Cora and they started laughing.

“What is so funny here?” Edith said

Cora let go of Robert and straightened her blouse. “Darling, I didn’t hear the bell.”

“We let ourselves in, mama, papa, this is Bertie.”

A nice looking man put out his hand to shake Cora’s. “Nice meeting you.” He said.

+++

“How did the sending to press go, without an editor?”

Edith looked in surprise. “oh that, that went very well. We were a wonderful team.” Edith winked at Bertie.

“That is wonderful to hear. What do you do, Bertie?” Robert asked.

They talked the whole evening. Robert and Bertie went outside on the terrace to enjoy some Whiskey. Oliver was in his room with Marigold. Edith helped Cora clean up the kitchen.

“That was a nice meal mum. Thank you.”

“I am glad you liked it.” Cora answered.

“What do you think of Bertie?” Edith asked shy.

“Darling, you are happy with him, that is the only thing that matters. Not mine or papa’s opinion.”

“But, do you like him?” Edith asked again.

“I do, he is interesting and very nice. And it looks like he makes you happy. And that is all I want for you and Marigold to be happy. Does he have children of his own?”

“No, he doesn’t. But he loves Marigold as a daughter already. Mum, I never expected to find love again. But I think I found it.”

Cora embraced Edith. “That makes me happy.”

+++

That night in bed, Robert couldn’t hold it in. He turned on his side. “Cora? Are you awake?” “hmm, barely, what is it?”

“I should not tell you, but Bertie asked for Edith’s hand tonight.”

Cora was right awake. “He did what!” She exclaimed.

“He truly did. And of course, I gave him my blessing.”

“Oh darling, she is going to be happy. Finally. She has so many troubled years, but now it is finally happening.”

+++

Edith walked into the office, both Cora and Robert were present and in Cora’s office, looking at photo’s

“Darling, I didn’t expect you here today.” Cora said.

Edith held out her hand. “I know, but I needed to show you this.” On her finger there was a ring with a shimmering stone.

Cora got up and hugged Edith. “oh my darling, what a wonderful news.”

Robert stepped in on the hug. “Let me see what he picked out for you.” And he took her hand to look at the ring closely.

+++

Edith’s wedding day was a sunny spring day. Both she and Bertie, didn’t want to wait long, nor did they want a big wedding. Marigold was her bridesmaid.

Just a few people had attended.

Mary and Sybil insisted on getting a picture with them three. Now they were finally all married. Oliver had watched them and looked a bit sad.

“What is wrong my boy?” Cora asked.

“I will never belong. I am too young to be their brother, but I am different than Sybbie, George and Marigold.”

Cora squatted down next to him. “You are their darling little brother, and you belong. In a few years, you will take a picture like this when you will get married.

“But Mary is 24 years older, she could be my mum.” Oliver pouted.

Cora brushed his hair. “Darling, you are loved by your father and me. And your sisters adore you.”

Sybil had watched the scene and sensed what was happening. She walked over and said. “This day isn’t complete with a picture with all four of us.” She took Oliver’s hand and they got some fun pictures with them together. Oliver’s face lit up, when Sybil had approached him.

Robert slid his hand in Cora’s. “Look at them, how precious they are.”

They were taking pictures with their husbands and children. Cora leaned in on Robert. “I said this before, but we are lucky.”

“Stop being touchy and feely and join us in our pictures,” Mary said.

Both Robert and Cora laughed out loud. Mary would never get used to seeing them being in love with each other.

Follow your heart or family, part three, chapter 18

Cora had searched for a new home and found the perfect place in Embankment.

She and Robert had a viewing today. The reception room with double-height ceilings had spectacular views over the river and its iconic buildings. “Cora look, we can see the Houses of Parliament.” Robert exclaimed.

“It is beautiful! Look at that terrace. This place is really lovely.”

“We will have a bedroom for Oliver, a spare bedroom and we both can have our study. You can have your music room. And did you see the view from our bedroom? Oh darling, I missed this skyline.” Robert said.

Robert made an offer and they were lucky to get it.

+++

“Good morning, birthday boy.” Cora and Robert stepped into his room, singing a birthday song. Oliver sat right up with a big smile on his face. He opened his presents and enjoyed his pancakes that Cora made him.

Cora brushed through his hair. “We have a surprise for you today. Sybbie, George and Marigold are coming over and we are going to ‘Shrek’s Adventure!‘

“Mama, are we really?” One day Oliver had watched Shrek with Robert and since that day he was obsessed.

Cora kissed him on the top of his head. Before she could answer the kitchen was flooded with his sisters and cousins.

Robert pulled Cora close. “We are a lucky couple, look at them.” They looked at Mary, Matthew, Sybil, Tom and Edith interacting with their children and Oliver.

The day had been fun, they had lunch at Sky Garden, but dinner was at home. Oliver had requested Cora would make bangers and mash and Cora had said it was enough excitement for Robert for one day.

“You are exactly like your sister Sybil. That is her favourite meal too.” Robert tickled Oliver.

“Only when mama makes it. I tried it myself, but mama does something special with it.” Sybil said.

“Mama has a special ingredient.” Robert said.

“Dad, when is the move?” Mary asked.

They all sat in the conservatory, while Cora and Edith were in the kitchen making dinner.

“We hope to move in October, we need to put this house on the market soon.”

“I will miss this place.” Sybil said. “This is where we grew up.”

“We didn’t.” Mary answered. “Edith and I were not born here.”

Robert intervened, he didn’t want a fight today. “Both you and Edith were too young to remember the apartment we lived in. This is the home you all grew up in. The place where……. ” His voice trailed off.

Cora had been listening and stepped towards Robert. She brushed his shoulder. “He is coming with us to our new home!” She bent down and kissed his cheek. “Dinner is ready.”

Everybody got up and walked into the dining room. Cora and Robert stayed behind.

“26 years already, he would have had a girlfriend by now, or even be married.” Robert said with a thick voice.

Cora hugged Robert. “I also miss him, but we have four wonderful children, let’s be happy and celebrate. Enjoy our grandchildren and each other. Look at us, 30 years of marriage. Who would have thought that.

+++

Robert started working with Matthew. Mary made it clear she wasn’t interested in taking over the company, but Matthew was eager.

Cora made sure Robert took his rest and did not work full days. It was hard for him, but he was adjusting slowly. Some days he came home looking really pale and that worried Cora.

“Darling?” Cora laid her hand on Robert’s chest. “Are you awake?”

“I am.” He answered, touching her hand.

“Are you really feeling alright? This afternoon you looked so tired.”

“Really, don’t worry about me. It is just everything together, our last night in this house, the move tomorrow. Matthew taking over the company.” His voice trailed off.

Cora got closer to him, she kissed his neck. She didn’t say anything, she just held him close.

+++

“Oliver, can you please stay out of the way!” Cora said annoyed. She almost tripped over him carrying a box to the moving van.

“Oliver, why don’t you come with me, you can play with Sybbie.” Sybil said.

Cora gave her a thankful look. “Robert, that is way too heavy, let the movers do that, please.”

Robert put the box down. “I will go to the office, just call me when the movers are done.” He walked out the door without saying goodbye. Cora let out a deep sigh.

At the end of the day, all three girls were home.

“Where is papa?” Mary asked.

“He is at the office.” Cora answered. “I think I got on his nerves.”

“Mama, sent everybody away today!” Oliver said with a smart face.

Cora brushed his hair and smiled at him. “I am afraid you are right. I will call papa to come home.”

Robert took Matthew and Tom with him. He kissed Cora. “I am sorry for this afternoon.”

“Don’t worry, darling, I was wrong too.”

“I will miss this home.” Edith said and Sybil agreed.

“We will not be able to sleep over anymore.” Mary said.

“We will always have room, for you girls. We will put mattresses in the living room. We had some good years here with all of us.”

They said goodbye to their home and Robert closed the door behind them. Cora took his hand. “Our story will continue in our new home.” She got on her toes to kiss him. With the years she had hoped Robert would shrink, but she shrunk with him and was still shorter.

Robert had ordered dinner, and they ate it in the new dining room. They all enjoyed the stunning views from this apartment. After the girls, left with their husbands and children Cora put Oliver in his bed.

“You sleep well my darling.” She kissed him on his forehead, he was asleep before she left his room.

Back in the living room, Robert had dimmed the lights, lighted candles and turned on romantic music. He was waiting for Cora. He took her hands and started dancing. “We should spend the first night in this home in a good way. We could have some fun.” he said with a cheeky smile.

“As long (as) Oliver is asleep, we can do anything, my darling.” She gave him a passionate kiss.

Robert hands were trying to take of her blouse, he struggled with the buttons. Cora helped him, softly touching his fingers. “Maybe we need to move to the bedroom, I don’t want Oliver to walk in on us.”

Robert’s hands stopped trying to unbutton her blouse. “What a way to kill the mood.” He moaned.

Cora let one shoulder of her blouse down and moved with her hips. “I will be upstairs, if you want more!” And she walked up the stairs.

Robert followed as quickly as he could. Before Cora reached their new bedroom, he stopped her, took her in his arms and carried her over the doorstep. “I didn’t do that when we entered our home today!”

Cora kissed his neck. “Be careful darling.”

Robert froze for a second and Cora realised what she said. She teased him with her tongue. “You are too old to have fun.” She said in a playful manner.

Robert pushed her against the wall, Cora had wrapped her legs around him. He worked on her, by kissing her breast line. He pressed against her, she could feel he was getting hard.

Suddenly he stopped, turned around and laid her on the bed. He finished taking of her blouse and bra. He slowly moved his hands over her body. Her skin started too wrinkle, it aroused him even more. He had loved her young skin, but knowing that she was his for all these years…… He kissed her bellybutton and moved upwards.

Cora moved her hands over Robert’s back, she had taken of his shirt and was working on his pants. Her hand slipped inside. She felt his body react in shock. She worked on him, until he couldn’t stand on his legs. She pulled him on the bed on top of her. Her skirt was halfway down, but she didn’t bother taking it off. She opened her legs so Robert could enter.

“I love you so much.” Robert moaned in her ear when he reached his high.

“I need more!” Cora said with a hot breath. She moved on top of Robert. Her hands roaming over his chest. His chest hair had gotten grey. She kissed his chest and moved down until she touched him. His hands cupping her head. He arched his back.

“Now it is your turn.” He said while turning Cora on her back. His fingers slipped inside her, and he played with her. She didn’t need much before she peaked. Her whole body shuddered, Robert was still a master in finding her pleasure spot. His mouth found hers and she could taste his minty breath. She loved his taste, his warmth inside her.

Robert slid down next to her, his fingers still inside her. He felt she was ready for more, he pulled her on top of him. She moved her hips and he entered again.

Both were breathing heavily when they laid next to each other. Cora’s legs strangled in Roberts, her head on his arm. “Not bad for an old man,” she joked.

“Nothing wrong with my heart.” He joked back “But with a wife as beautiful as you, it is easy to stay young.” He kissed the tip of her nose. He pulled the covers over them, when he felt Cora falling asleep.

No better way to celebrate a new house. He thought.

Follow your heart or family, part three, chapter 17

Cora woke up in the middle of the night, Robert wasn’t there. She felt Robert’s side of the bed and that was cold. She had gotten to bed early, Robert had not come to the bedroom when she fell asleep. She got up and checked the bathroom, also empty. He wasn’t in Oliver’s room and also his study was empty. Cora got downstairs, the kitchen and conservatory were empty. Then she heard his snoring, she opened the guest bedroom on the ground floor. Robert was sleeping in that bed. She didn’t know why he did that, but she decided to let him sleep for now and ask him tomorrow morning. Robert was still exhausted, even though he had worked from home for the last week and slept every afternoon. Cora got back in bed and tried to sleep some more. It was hard to fall asleep again, she was worried about Robert.

In the morning the smell of breakfast woke her up. She put on her bathrobe and walked downstairs. Robert was in the kitchen, making breakfast and humming to the music that was playing. “Robert? Why did you sleep downstairs?” Cora asked.

Robert turned around. “I tried walking up the stairs last night, but I got so out of breath that I gave up and decided to sleep there.”

“Robert, you really need to go to a doctor. This isn’t normal. You sleep so much and the fact you are constantly out of breath without doing anything, worries me.”

“I will take a week off next week. No working, also not from home, so I can really rest.”

+++

Robert had indeed taken the week off. Some days he felt really good and some days he couldn’t do anything. He sat on the couch watching the birds in the garden. Cora sat down next to him, she leaned against him. “How are you feeling today?”

“I think I have a good day.” He leaned back in too the back of the couch.

Cora scooted closer and laid her head on his chest. But she got up quickly. “Robert? Do you feel that yourself?”

“What do I feel myself?”

“Your heart? It doesn’t have a regular beat! You need to get that checked out, maybe your fatigue and shortness of breath comes from that.”

“Oh, I have that for a long time now, I am used to it.”

“Please go for a check-up, darling. I need you longer in my life.”

+++

Robert got an appointment the next day, when he called and explained his symptoms, the doctor wanted to see him directly. Robert didn’t understand all the fuss, but he followed. He knew by now, that when Cora was worried, he better listened, she would not calm down otherwise.

The doctor listened to his heart and send him in for some tests. He suspected a heart rhythm disorder. Robert got a lot of tests that same day and it turned out he had a bad arrhythmia, but the reason for that was even worse. He had partially obstructed coronary arteries, he needed surgery soon. The doctor had asked if he felt any tightness in his chest. And Robert had to answer yes to that question.

He called Cora as soon as he was back home “Where are you?” He asked when she answered her phone.

“I am at the park with Oliver, what took you so long? Did they find something?”

“They did, can you come home, please?”

+++

Cora send Oliver upstairs to play in his room, she found Robert in the conservatory. He was staring into nothingness. She slightly touched is arm. “Is it bad news?”

Robert pulled Cora close. She let him hug her, she knew it didn’t help if she pressed him to answer her now.

“I need surgery.” Robert started. “I am at the edge of a heart attack.”

Cora looked shocked. “Oh my God.”

“I am not having one.” He took Cora’s hand. I am just not far from one.

“Please, take care of yourself!”

“That’s what I have you for. And you are doing so well.” Robert smiled at Cora.

“You need to watch your diet from now on. No more alcohol and slowing down with coffee. White fish and chicken.” Robert pulled a face. “I will be strict!”

+++

Robert’s operation was scheduled within a week. Oliver would stay at Rosamund’s, so Cora would be free to go to the hospital.

The morning of his operation, Robert sat on the settee. Cora sat in front of him on her knees. Her hands in his hands. “Cora, if this is it, just know that I have loved you very, very much.”

“This isn’t it, darling. We won’t let this be it.” Cora gave Robert a tender kiss.

A tear escaped Robert’s eye. “I am really nervous.”

“I will be with you every step.”

+++

The operation went smooth no complications. Cora was waiting for him to return. The girls all had called to ask if he was already back up and if they could come. Cora told them she would call if she knew more. Robert was brought back to the room. He was still groggy from the anaesthesia.

Cora brushed his hair. “You are back! Thank God, you are back.” The doctor told her what they did during surgery. Robert should, from now on, always watch his diet and adjust to being more fatigue. His arrhythmia was still there but the blockage in his veins was gone.

Cora sat next to Robert waiting for him to fully wake up. She watched him anxiously, he was turning 58 this November, he was too young to die. She was going to take better care of him. Healthier meals and more free time. Maybe now was the time to prepare Matthew for the takeover.

She must have fallen asleep, because she woke up from Robert squeezing her hand. “You are awake, darling.”

“I am for a while now, but you were sleeping so peacefully. I didn’t want to wake you.

“I told the girls, I would call the moment you woke up. But now I fell asleep myself. I am sorry. Did you already call them?”

“No not yet, I wanted to be with you. You never know how long we have together, and I want to soak up every moment with you.”

Cora’s eyes filled with tears. “Don’t say things like that, you are not going to die. Not yet. The doctors told me that you will be fine, as long as you take care of yourself. And I will make sure you will do that. Please don’t say things like that.”

Robert touched Cora’s cheek. “I am sorry, darling. I didn’t mean to make you cry.” He tried getting up to kiss Cora, but he couldn’t. Cora smirked and got up to kiss him instead.

+++

Cora left the room when the girls arrived, it would be too busy for Robert. Three was not allowed said the nurse, but she would turn her eye for this once. Rosamund was in the waiting room with Oliver. He ran towards her. Cora got down to pick him up. “Your daddy will be home soon!” She kissed him on his cheek.

Rosamund had a worried look on her face. Cora embraced her. “He will be alright, the operation went well. He is already looking better. Why don’t you bring Oliver to him?”

“Are you sure? Don’t you want to be with him?”

“He is your brother, go and talk to him.” Cora notched Rosamund towards the door. She closed the door behind her and took in a deep breath, tears started welling up in her eyes. Suddenly she felt arms around her. Her girls had entered the room and were hugging her.

“Dad will be alright” Sybil said.

“He is a fighter, and he will be back home soon” Mary said.

Edith didn’t say anything, but she was the one who held Cora the tightest. Cora kissed all three of her girls on their cheek and squeezed Edith’s hand. “I am blessed with you three as my daughters.”

+++

Robert stayed in the hospital for a few days. He could walk again, without shortness of breath and the wounds were healing fast. He got some exercises to do every day. For his arrhythmia he got medicines and a monthly check up for the upcoming months.

Cora helped him out of the car and walked him back inside. She made the spare bedroom their temporary bedroom. She didn’t want him to climb the stairs already.

“Darling, maybe it is time to sell this house?” Cora said while bringing Robert his cup of tea in the conservatory.

“What?” Robert looked at her in surprise. “But this is your dream home?”

“I know, but it is getting too big for us. We could move back to an apartment building?”

“I leave that up to you. You found this gem, so I bet you will find a new palace for us. But for now, please sit next to me, so we can enjoy this lovely summer day together. By the way we still need to buy a present for Oliver, he is turning 5 at the end of this month.”

“How could I forget that? How stupid of me, I didn’t make any invitations for his birthday party. I will start doing that tonight. But now I just want to enjoy this cup of tea and being together with you.

Follow your heart of family, part three, chapter 16

Four years later. Mary is 29, Edith is 28, Sybil is 24, Oliver is 5. Robert is turning 58, Cora is 55. Sybbie is 6, George is 4, Marigold is 4.

“Oliver stand still for a second will you!” Cora tried to tie his tie around his neck. It was the first day of school for him.

“Look at my boy, all ready for school” Robert got in the room. “Here, let me.” He took the tie from Cora’s hands. He tied it around his own neck and then transferred it to Oliver.

“I don’t like this tie, why do I have to wear it?”

“All boys at school will wear one.” Robert answered.

“You don’t wear a tie to work?”

Robert brushed trough Oliver’s hair. “When you have my age , you can decide not to wear a tie, now let me look at you!” He stepped back to look at his son.

+++

“I will be back before dinner.” Robert kissed Cora on her cheek an got in the car.

Cora looked at him worried. He got in bed early yesterday evening. He was very tired the last weeks and was out of breath all the time. Robert shoved it aside when Cora mentioned it. He just needed a holiday soon, that was all. But deep down, Cora felt something was wrong.

She turned around and got back in their home. She had a photoshoot this afternoon. The weather wasn’t looking good. She needed to think of a different location, because with this rain, shooting in Hyde Park wasn’t going to work out. She opened her laptop and started searching. She made a call to Kew Gardens and after offering some money, they said they could arrange a clear area for them this afternoon. It always amazed Cora how easy things were when you have money. She realised how blessed she was, growing up she lived an easy life and after marrying Robert, it only got easier. They never had to worry about money. There was a constant flow of it. She looked at the clock and jumped up. She had one hour left, before she needed to be at the office. She hurried to get all her equipment and rushed over to the office. The rest of the team was already waiting on her. She looked around to see if she saw Robert.

“Rosamund? Where is Robert?”

“I think he is in his office, he asked us not to disturb him.”

Cora knocked on his door and opened it. Robert wasn’t at his desk. She entered the room and she found him lying on the couch. She walked over to him, he was asleep. Cora brushed his hair out of his face, he needed to go to the hairdresser she thought. His skin was clammy. “Robert?” She asked in a worried voice. Robert didn’t react. Cora got on her knees next to him. “Darling? Are you alright?”

Robert opened his eyes. “I am so tired, darling. Please let me sleep.”

“Darling, I will bring you home. You need to go to bed. You can’t sleep here.”

“No, no, you have that shoot. I will just sleep a little bit more and will be up to work later.”

“None of that, I was bringing Jessica for this shoot, she can do it alone. I am taking you home. Just lay here, I will get the team out on their way.” She kissed Robert’s forehead. “I will be back soon.”

Cora closed his door behind her and called Jessica over. “I can’t go on this shoot today, do you think you can manage on your own?”

“But I am not near as good as you?” Jessica protested.

“Why do you think I hired you? You definitely have talent, believe in yourself.”

When everybody was out, Rosamund gave Cora a puzzled look. “Is there something wrong?”

“Robert is extremely tired and I want to bring him home.”

“When he entered this morning, he was out of breath, just from walking from the car to here.” Rosamund said. “Take good care of him, hopefully, he is just overworked.”

+++

Cora stood at the gate of the school. Oliver came running towards her. “Can I go back tomorrow?”

Cora got down. “Of course, you are, you will attend school every day from now on. Sweetheart, when we come home, I want you to be quiet. Daddy isn’t feeling well, and he is asleep”

“Can I go play with Sybbie today?”

“That’s a good idea. We will go there directly.” Cora notched him towards the car.

Sybil opened the door, with a look of surprise. “Mama? I wasn’t expecting you today?”

“I am sorry, darling, I am here without a phone call first. But can Oliver play here this afternoon? Papa isn’t feeling well, and he needs some rest.”

“Is it bad?”

“I don’t think so darling, papa just needs to take it a little slower. Do you really have time?” Cora answered

“Of course, I have a night shift tonight, but Tom will be home soon.”

+++

When Cora came back home she found Robert in the kitchen, hunched over the kitchen table. “Robert???? What’s wrong?”

“I just need to catch my breath.” Robert said. “I walked too fast.”

“This isn’t normal, darling! You should not be out of breath from just walking.”

Robert gave Cora a reassuring smile. “I will be ok, I really think I just overworked myself. I will take some days off” He cupped her cheek with his hand. “Where is Oliver?”

“He is at Sybil’s and Tom’s, he wanted to play with Sybbie.”

“They are lucky to have each other.” Robert smiled. “What’s for dinner?”

“I was planning on making bangers and mash.”

“Then we need to invite Sybbie. That’s her favourite.” Robert smiled

+++

Sybil and Tom arrived around dinner time with Sybbie and Oliver. Sybbie ran towards Robert. “Donk”

Robert picked her up. After sleeping the whole afternoon he felt a lot better. “You will never stop calling me Donk?”

Sybbie smiled and said. “No, you are Donk.”

The evening was full of laughter and joy. Robert didn’t show any signs of his tiredness anymore. Cora hoped it was really just tiredness and nothing more. Maybe he just had a cold, that could be the reason he was out of breath. She was going to take better care of him and watch him like a hawk.

Tom and Robert returned from a walk in the garden. Robert looked delighted. “Tom finally accepted my offer to come and work for the company. He will join Matthew, they have young minds and will let our company grow even bigger.”

Cora wrapped her arm around Robert. “I am happy for you. Tom welcome in the company. When will you start?” After some more talk about Tom’s new job, Cora said. “It is time you will bring that little girl home, I have to bring that little boy upstairs.” Sybbie had fallen asleep on the couch in the conservatory, Oliver was sleeping next to her.

That evening Cora crawled against Robert. “Darling, are you feeling better?”

“I think I am. But now I just want to sleep. Thank you for this afternoon. I really needed it.” He kissed Cora and turned around. He was asleep before Cora could answer.

Follow your heart or family, part three, chapter 15

The first thing Cora did when she got home was cuddle Oliver. He started to coo when he heard her voice. His little body moulded against hers.

Robert stood behind her and kissed her in her neck. “He is happy you are back home, as am I.”

Cora leaned back against him. “I missed you two.” They stood there for some time. Soaking up each other’s body warmth.

Robert hands roamed around her body. “I missed feeling you. I can’t sleep without you next to me.”

Cora turned her head to kiss Robert. “I love you.”

“I will take the day off tomorrow. We can do something fun with the three of us.” His hand caressed Oliver’s back, who had fallen asleep in Cora’s arms.

“Oh?” Cora said in surprise. “I had hoped to just stay in. I am exhausted.”

Robert looked guilty. “Of course, sorry, I forgot. We will stay home and just have a relaxing day. I will ask Sybil to come and get Oliver, or we can call Nanny?”

“No.” Cora pulled Oliver closer to her body. “I missed this little guy so much.”

Robert smiled. “I can guarantee you, he missed you too.”

+++

He let Cora sleep in, Robert could handle another morning with Oliver alone. He himself finally had a goodnight sleep with Cora’s little snores next to him. He wasn’t complete without her next to him.

Mary had called and also Sybil, he had told the girls they needed the day together. This evening they would be welcome after dinner. He felt Cora’s hand on his stomach while he was on the phone with Sybil.

“Good morning,” she whispered, and leaned her body against his.

“Sybil, will you tell Mary and Edith, we will eat around 19.00 o’clock, so anything after that is ok.” Robert said, while placing one hand over Cora’s.

“The girls and their husbands are welcome to eat here, if they want?” Cora interrupted Robert. “I will make Beef Wellington.”

Robert’s eyes lit up. “Sybil, did you hear that? Please tell your sisters, we will see you tonight.” He hung up the phone. “Are you sure? Making dinner for 7 people is a lot.”

“I am sure, I love being in the kitchen. We can go to the shops together. Just being nice and homey.” She picked up Oliver from his highchair. “And you are coming with us.” She twirled him around.

+++

Cora and Robert decided to walk to the shops. Oliver was in his stroller, and they walked arm in arm. “I love this simple life.” Cora said.

“It was high time we would get our simple life. Enough drama in the last years. Now it is our time.”

“We must not forget Edith is still mourning. We aren’t back fully.” Cora answered.

“You are right and with our girls! Life will never be simple.” Robert chuckled.

Cora bought all the things she needed at the butcher and the local supermarket. They weren’t ready to go home yet, so they walked around some more. Oliver had fallen asleep. They chatted about everything and nothing and just enjoyed being together.

“Cora?” Robert asked after a few minutes of silence.

“Yes dear?”

“What would you say, if I make Matthew, head of the company? With Tom at his right hand?”

Cora looked surprised. “Already? Darling, are you sure? You have at least 10 more working years ahead of you? I am not ready to retire I think.”

“Hmm, maybe you are right. I still love working. I just thought we could have so much fun, just being free.”

“We will have our free days together, you can start with working less hours a week?”

+++

Cora was in the kitchen, when Sybil entered with Sybbie on her arm.

“Hello, darlings.” Cora greeted them. “Look at you! You are growing up so fast.” She said to Sybbie. “Where is Tom?”

“He is with papa, talking about cars.”

“Your husband is a bad influence on mine.” Mary said while entering the kitchen with George. “Hello mama.” She kissed Cora on her cheek. “It smells delicious, I missed a home cooked meal from you.”

Cora gave her a warm smile. “How is my darling boy doing?” She took George from Mary’s arms.

“All of us in the same kitchen, that’s a long time ago.” Edith said when she also entered the kitchen.

“All my girls back home. You girls can’t make me happier. Hello sweetheart.” She brushed her finger against Marigold’s cheek and kissed Edith’s.

The girls had sat down on the table. Sybbie was crawling around the kitchen.

“I missed this sound.” Robert said when he stepped into the kitchen. Tom and Matthew followed him. He stepped next to Cora and put his arm around her shoulder. “How wonderful to have you all here.” Robert saw Edith’s face. “Michael will always be with us in our hearts.” He walked over to Edith and kissed the top of her head.

Dinner had been long, the family stayed at the dinner table the whole evening. Marigold, George and Sybbie were put down in the guest bedroom until they all went home. Robert watched Cora while she was busy in the kitchen. He had checked on Oliver, he was sound asleep. He loved how Cora moved around, she had turned on some music. She was humming on the beats of -Growing old with you- from Restless Road.

Robert walked in and started singing with the chorus:
‘What you say we put us down some roots?
Find a house up on a hill
Travel ‘round this world
Put some pictures on the shelf
Maybe one day our babies go
And have some babies of their own
And you’ll get all my time ‘til all my time is through
I feel like growing old with you
Growing old with you
I feel like growing old with you‘

He wrapped his arms around her and moved slowly to the beat. “I will never stop loving dancing with you” he said softly in her ear.

“I will never stop loving you,” Cora said in response. Her body tight against his. “You make me feel whole again.” The music changed to -How long will I love you- from Ellie Goulding. Cora turned around to face Robert, she laid her arms in his neck and they slow danced together. “This was a wonderful day. I loved every second of it, but we should go to bed.”

“To sleep?” Robert said with a cheeky smile.

“Yes, to sleep. We both have to work tomorrow. I have that photoshoot at the London Eye at sunrise”

“Hmmm, maybe you are right.” His hands cupped her breasts. “We can be quick?”

Cora chuckled, “Not tonight, darling”

Follow your heart or family, part three, chapter 14

“Why did mama had to go to Switzerland.” Mary complained to Sybil.

Sybil had picked up Oliver and brought him with her to Mary. She was playing with him and looked up to Mary. “Edith needed mama? Of course, she went to Switzerland.”

“Edith always has something, I get pregnant, she gets pregnant. I give birth and her boyfriend dies. It is just her boyfriend!”

“Mary, you can’t say that. Edith was in love with Michael.”

“Why didn’t they marry then? She always wants to be different.”

“Who wants to be different?” Robert asked while entering the room.

“Papa, what are you doing here? Who let you in?”

“Matthew answered the door. I finished working and came to pick up Oliver.” He bent down and picked up his son. “Hello, darling boy, were your sisters nice to you?” He looked up at Mary again. “Who wants to be different?”

“Oh, nothing papa. How is mama doing?” Sybil asked.

“She called this morning, Edith slept and now they are going to the funeral home to arrange everything. Mama will stay with Edith until the birth. Edith can’t travel.

Mary sighed. “So, you are left to take care of Oliver?”

“Mary? What are you implying?”

“Never mind, I will go and get George.” He had started crying.

+++

“Edith, I made you lunch. You don’t have to eat everything, but you need to eat something. Think of the baby” Cora said, while putting down a plate in front of her.”

Edith looked up at her mother. “Thank you so much for being here.”

Cora brushed Edith’s back. “Of course, I am here.”

“But Oliver? He needs you?”

“Darling, your papa is more than capable to take care of him. He is bottle fed now.”

Edith started crying again. “Oh, mama, I can’t believe this is real. Michael is really gone.”

That afternoon they went to the funeral home to arrange everything. Michael would be cremated in Switzerland and his ashes would come back with Edith to London. His ashes should stay in Switzerland for at least one month, but that wasn’t a problem. Edith had about 5 weeks to go to her due date.

+++

Cora helped Edith to bed. She was exhausted, there was so much she needed to do. Michael’s office had called to let her know “The Sketch’ was now hers. Cora sat next to Edith, singing to her until she was asleep.

She called Robert.

“Cora!” He picked up the phone.

“Oh darling, how I wish you were here. Edith is a mess and there is so much she needs to do.”

“If you really need me, I can be there for you two?”

“You are precious, I will manage. Oliver needs you. How is Mary doing with George.”

“George is a darling, such a sweet baby.” Robert answered.

“I am glad.” In the background Cora could hear Oliver crying. “Darling, we will talk tomorrow, Oliver needs you.”

“Oliver is fussy today, just stay on the line, I will get him. But I want to hear your voice a little bit longer.”

Cora waited for Robert to return. Her heart ached when she heard Oliver’s cry. He was really upset. “Darling, can you put the phone on speaker?”

Robert did as she asked, and Oliver settled down when Cora started talking to him. “Darling, just sleep now, papa is there for you. Sleep my darling.”

+++

Cora slept in Edith’s bed for the last weeks. Edith didn’t want to sleep alone, and Cora didn’t mind. This way she was there when she woke up from a bad dream. Tonight, she was woken up by Edith’s panicked voice.

“Mama, I think I have contractions.”

Cora was right awake. “Are you sure? How long apart are they?”

“I didn’t time them yet. But I think this is how contractions feel.” She breathed heavily and bend forward.

Cora got up. “We will time them from now on. Concentrate on your breathing.” Cora called the hospital, and they said she could come in if she wanted, but she could also wait at home

Edith wanted to go in, she was scared. “Mama, you have lost a baby, maybe this one will go wrong too?”

“Don’t you worry about that. You still feel the baby, right?”

Cora coached Edith. She focused on her breathing and held her hand. It was a special moment, to be present.

Hours later Edith sat in bed with a little girl in her arms. “I will call her Marigold.” Edith said.

“Congratulations darling, you did splendidly.” Cora kissed Edith on her forehead.

“Do you want to hold her?” She gave the little girl to Cora.

Edith called her father to tell the news. He was overjoyed. “Oh Edith, I am so proud of you.”

“Are you really, daddy?”

“I am as proud as I can be, and I can’t wait to hold you in my arms again. Edith, you are a strong and brave woman. I love you.”

+++

A couple of weeks later, Cora, Edith and Marigold entered the plane. Michael’s ashes were in a special box in the overhead compartment.

“I can’t believe, I am bringing Marigold home without her father. Mama, I miss him so much.” Edith started crying, that upset Marigold.

Cora took Marigold from Edith and tried to calm both down. Marigold was easier than Edith. The flight attendant checked in on them. Cora said, Edith would be alright. She needed a minute. She wrapped her arm around her and kissed her temple. “Sweetheart, I know this is incredibly hard, but you have to be strong now. Marigold needs you.”

“Thank you, mama. Can I come with Marigold at your place for a while?”

“You are always welcome at our place, but I think you and Marigold need a fresh start together. Not at your mama and papa’s. You can come in everyday, but it is important to bond with Marigold together.”

“I know you are right. But it is so scary. What if I can not do it.”

“I know you can, and your father and I are here to help. You can always ask us, always.”

Follow your heart or family, part three, chapter 13

The date of births of the grandchildren aren’t correct. I made some mistakes there.

Robert stormed in Cora’s office. “It has begun!”

Cora got startled. “You scared me, what has begun?”

“Come on, we have to go. It won’t take long now.” Robert was putting on his jacket.

“Robert, can you tell me what you are talking about?” Cora asked with annoyance in her voice.

“Mary’s labour. She is in the hospital now.” Robert was jumping from foot to foot.

“Darling, calm down, it is her first, this will take a while. I am coming with you, but please calm down.”

“No, Matthew said she is starting to push. We have to go!”

“What! Why didn’t Mary call me sooner. I could have been there for her.” Cora jumped up and got in her jacket, Robert was holding up.

“Come on, grandmamma, we are going to meet our new grandchild.”

Cora followed Robert, but she felt cold inside. Why didn’t Mary let her know she was in labour, she was her mother.

+++

At the hospital they were greeted by a radiant Matthew. “Welcome mama, papa, you have a grandson”

“A grandson, how wonderful.” Robert exclaimed.

They entered the room Mary was in. She was sitting upright with a bundle in her arms. “Come meet George, papa.”

Cora followed and she saw the most perfect little boy in her arms. “Oh, darling, you did so well. Congratulations.”

“Papa, you want to hold him.” Mary said.

Cora stepped next to Robert to admire the baby. Little George grabbed her finger. “Mary, he is just perfect.” She brushed over his nose. “His perfect little nose and ears. He is adorable, darling.”

Robert handed George to her. “He needs to meet his grandmamma in a proper way.”

Cora rocked George in her arms and he fell asleep. “Do you want me to lay him down?” She asked Mary.

“No, this is alright, he is content and safe in your arms. Can we talk?”

Robert and Matthew left the room and Cora sat down next to Mary, with her free hand she took her hand. “I am really proud of you, my darling. My first born has a child now of her own.”

“Oh mama, I am sorry.”

“Why? What for?” Cora asked.

“I resented you for having Oliver, and still did until now, when I saw you with George. I acted childishly.”

“That’s alright sweetheart. I am your mother, whatever happens. I will always love you.” She laid George in his crib and kissed Mary on her cheek. “Now try to sleep, you worked hard, you earned your sleep.”

+++

She had stayed with her until she was asleep and left the room. She found Matthew and Robert in the family room. “Mary is asleep, Robert, we should go home.”

She took Robert’s arm and started walking towards the exit.

“Are you alright, darling.” Robert asked.

“I am. Don’t worry about me.” Cora tucked in her arm a bit more.

“It is just…. well……” Robert stuttered. “Mary is so distant lately towards you.”

“Really, don’t worry about that. Mary is this way since Edith is born and I also think she doesn’t like me being an American.”

“It is one of the things that makes me love you even more! And she is forgetting the fact she has your American blood.”

“Darling, can we forget about it. For now, it is alright.”

“I only wish I had corrected Mary before.”

“Robert, both Edith and Mary aren’t nice to each other. We tried correcting them, it just didn’t work.”

+++

Cora was singing a lullaby to Oliver, when Robert entered the room. “Cora.” He said in a whisper. “You need to come, Edith is on the phone.”

“Is the baby coming? That would be one month early?” Cora said in surprise.

“Please, just come. She needs you and not me.”

Now Cora was worried, she kissed Oliver on his head and took the phone out of Robert’s hand. “Dear?” She asked.

She only heard crying on the other side of the line. “Edith?”

“Mama….. Michael……” no more words were coming true, she could only cry.

Cora looked up at Robert. Her eyes full of questions. “Edith, dear, try to calm down, I don’t understand a word. What happened?”

“Mama, can you please come.”

“Sweetheart, I will, I am going to book a flight right now. The earliest one I can get, and I am coming.” Robert already opened his laptop. “Is there something wrong with you? Or with the baby?”

“It is Michael. He is dead.”

Cora got white as a sheet. “He is what? Darling, what happened. Oh, my dear. I am coming, your papa is booking a ticket right now. I can be in Switzerland around 10 in the morning. Can I do something for you right now. Oh darling, how I wish I could hug you right now.”

She ended the phone call and just looked at Robert. “Michael is dead!”

“What? How? You need to go there as soon as possible. I will arrange a private flight, you are not going to wait until the morning. Go pack a bag, I can have a plane in 3 hours!”

“I, I don’t know what happened, Edith couldn’t tell me. You are an angel for arranging a plane, I will go and pack my bag.” Cora rushed upstairs to pack some clothes and essentials. She didn’t know how long she would be there, but she and Edith had the same figure, so she could barrow her clothes. Back downstairs, Robert had  indeed arranged a private plane and a taxi who would bring her to the airport.

“Darling, please call Sybil if something is wrong with Oliver, or when you need something.”

“Oliver, is my fourth child, I am sure I know what to do.” He kissed Cora. “Be careful, I love you.”

“The girls were raised by me and Nanny.” Cora winked but kissed him back. “I will call you when I am at Edith’s place, I love you too.”

+++

Cora arrived in the middle of the night in Switzerland. She took a taxi to Edith’s home. Edith opened the door and stumbled in Cora’s arms. She was a mess. Cora held her and brushed her back. “Darling, come we will sit down.”

Edith sniffed and tried to stop crying.

“You cry my dear. You can tell me later what happened. I am here now, you just cry.” They sat on the couch for a while until Edith was able to speak again.

“Michael went hiking on his own and he must have slipped and fallen down, because he was found dead on a mountain today. They couldn’t tell me exactly what happened, but this is the most likely scenario.” Edith leaned in on her mother. “Oh mother, what should I do now. I want Michael to be buried in England, but I am not allowed to fly. And I don’t feel alright enough to sit in a train for all those hours.”

“We can send Michael home and let papa arrange his funeral. But maybe we can get him cremated and send his ashes home? We will figure this out in the morning. Now I want you to go to bed and although it will be hard, try to get some sleep.”

“Will you sleep in my bed tonight mama?”

“If you want that, I definitely will. Come we will go upstairs.” Cora helped Edith changing her clothes to pyjama, she put her down in bed. She gave her a kiss on her forehead and got in on the other side of the bed. She wrapped her arms around Edith and held her close until she fell asleep.

Follow your heart or family, part three, chapter 12

Cora, Robert and Oliver arrived at Sybil’s and Tom’s place.

“You picked the perfect house for them.” Robert said smiling to Cora.

Cora was rocking little Oliver to sleep in his baby carrier. “It’s a lovely home indeed. I am still happy Tom accepted it”

Mary was the one to open the door. Cora smiled at her. “You are starting to show.”

“Mary caressed her abdomen, “4 months now. I still can’t believe it” She kissed her dad on his cheek and just laid her hand on Cora’s shoulder.

Cora felt like Mary had put a dagger in her heart, but hid the fact that she hurt her. Robert hadn’t noticed, he walked in with Mary, cheerfully chatting.

+++

“Now the party can start”, Sybil said smiling when they entered the living room. Sybbie was on Toms arm.

“Hello birthday girl, one year already.” Cora said while tickling Sybbie. She kissed Tom on his cheek.

The moment Sybbie saw her grandpapa, she started squirming. Robert took her from Tom and danced around with her.

“They already adore each other.” Sybil said smiling. “Who wants cake?”

“I will help you with the coffee and tea.” Cora laid Oliver down in his stroller, carefully not to wake him, she followed Sybil into the kitchen.

“You made this house a real home. I love how you have decorated it.”

“We wouldn’t be able to do that, without the money papa and you send us regularly.” Sybil said a little bit down.

Cora wrapped her arm around her daughter and pulled her close. “Darling, we have a good life, and we can help you. We are only happy we can.”

“I wish Tom would accept dad’s offer to come and work for ‘Abbey Advertisements’. He has so much more potential, than working with cars.”

“Can I do something to help?” Cora asked.

“I don’t think so but thank you.”

+++

That evening, Cora was sitting in the conservatory, feeding Oliver. At night she still breast-fed. During the day she pumped, to get him used to bottles. He was only 2 months old, but her body was giving her signs, she needed to stop the breastfeeding.

There was a knock on the door and Edith appeared in the doorway.

“Darling? What are you doing here?”

“I need to talk.” Edith said with her eyes low.

“Is something wrong? Are you feeling alright? Is it the baby?” Cora had a worried look on her face.

“I will follow Michael on his business trip. I want to be with him, and I want him to be present when the baby is born.”

Cora’s eyes grew big. “And where are you going?”

“We will live in Switzerland for the next 10 months.”

“If that makes you happy, you have to do that darling. What’s holding you back?” Cora asked.

“Papa, still doesn’t know I am pregnant. I can’t come back and show up with a baby. He will disown me”

“He has to pass me first if he wants to disown you and he won’t. But why aren’t you telling him. He would be delighted to know there is a third grandchild on it’s way.”

“He will be disappointed. Sybil and Mary both married and here I am! Living together unmarried and pregnant.”

Cora put Oliver down in his stroller and pulled Edith close. “Darling, I said this before, we don’t live in the 1920’s. Of course, papa would like you to be married, but you are his daughter. He loves you very much and will love this little bean too.” She touched Edith’s abdomen. “Three months already.”

Edith leaned in on her mother. “Are you sure, about papa?”

“What does your mother have to be sure about” Robert walked in the conservatory.

Edith jerked right up, and her cheeks were red as a tomato. “I, I, uhmm, I.” She couldn’t say a word.

Cora took her hand. “Robert. Edith needs to tell you something, please sit down.”

Edith looked at Cora scared. “Mama! I can’t.”

“Do you want me to tell it?”

Edith just nodded. Cora told the whole story, she could see a range of emotions going over Robert’s face. When she was done. Robert stood up and hugged Edith.

“My darling girl. How could you think I would be mad at you? Michael makes you happy, of course you are following him to Switzerland. I am only sad we won’t be there when this little one is presenting itself.”

Cora looked at Robert, she fell in love with him, over and over again.

+++

“Why do we have to make such a big deal out of this.” Mary complained while putting up the decorations.

“Because your sister will be away for the next 10 months, and we want to say a proper goodbye.” Cora answered

“She isn’t going away forever, it is just 10 months.”

“I once made the mistake of not saying a proper goodbye, and I will never let that happen again.”

“That is such a sad story mama, I am happy dad survived that accident.” Sybil said.

Cora smiled at Sybil, her little peace maker. Although she wasn’t little anymore with her 19 years. “Mary, be careful on that ladder.”

“I remember, you being mad at dad for worrying to much, can you please stop that.” Mary bitched at Cora.

Cora turned around to hid her face. She knew Mary had a point, but Mary was so hostile against her since she was pregnant. Even worse than before. She walked into the kitchen, to finish the cake.

Robert walked in. “Why aren’t you with the girls”

“Oh, they are alright, they don’t need me to decorate.”

Robert saw her face change for a second. He wrapped his arm around her. “Look at that little boy in his crib, he still needs you very much.” He kissed her cheek.

Cora cupped his cheek with her hand. “You are a darling.”

+++

Cora and Robert were standing at the airport waving Edith and Michael goodbye. Oliver was in the baby carrier on Cora’s chest. She was fighting against her tears.

“She will be alright, she has Michael. She isn’t on the other side of the world. We can visit her soon if you want to.” Robert had his arm around her waist. She leaned against him.

“You are right. I am being silly. Come, we are going for a coffee.”

“Make that a cup of tea and I am in.”

“Oh, you Brit, we will get you a cup of tea.” Cora chuckled.

Arm in arm they walked out of the airport. Robert guided her towards a car.

“Robert, where are we going? That’s our car?” She said when she saw the Bentley.

“It is indeed and in the trunk are our suitcase. Sybil helped me pack, so I wouldn’t forget anything for Oliver. Andrew is our driver again.”

“I still don’t know what I did to deserve you.”

“You make me the happiest man on earth.” He kissed Cora, opened the car door for her. “I will sit in the front, I didn’t want to put the car seat on the passenger seat.”

“You are a darling. Where are we going?”

“I booked the Stable Suite at the Artist Residence in Oxford. We will have a super king bed, roll-top bathtub in the bedroom, luxurious bathroom with rainfall shower, private terrace and comfy seating area with log burner. We will stay for 4 nights. Just the three of us.”

Follow your heart or family, part three, chapter 11

It was a hot summer day and Cora was sitting in the garden. She didn’t know how to sit comfortably anymore. Robert had put a fan next to her to give her some cool air. She was one week overdue.

“Mum” Edith stepped into the garden. “Do you have a minute?”

“As long as I don’t have to move, I have. I am all ears.” She looked up at her daughter.

“I need to tell you something, please don’t get mad.”

Now Cora was worried. “Darling?”

“Michael asked me to live together, and I said yes.”

“Why should I get mad?”

“Well, we aren’t going to marry yet.” Edith stuttered.

Cora chuckled: “We don’t live in the 1920’s. If this makes you happy, I am happy.”

Edith hugged her mother. “Thank you.”

“Before you go, can you bring me a glass of water, an extra pillow and move the fan a bit closer?”

Robert was the one who returned with her requests. He helped her get the pillow in the right position behind her back. “Darling, I can go and get an air-conditioning for the bedroom? So, you can stay in the cool?”

Cora took Robert’s hand. “I will be alright.”

“No sign of the birth?” Robert caressed her belly.

“I had some cramps earlier, but that’s it, unfortunately.”

Robert put his mouth against her belly. “Little one, your mother wants to meet you, do you want to come out?” The only response he got was a kick. It clearly hurt Cora. “Darling, are you sure you are alright.”

“There is nothing we can do but wait.”

“We can try to shake the baby out.” He laughed.

Cora gave him a faint smile.

Robert took her hand and tried to get her up. “Dancing can help! We will dance the baby out.”

“Darling, please it is way too hot for that.” Cora protested, but she gave in on Robert when he kept trying to get her up.

Robert slowly moved Cora around in the garden. He was singing ‘Take Your Time Girl’ from Niels Geusebroek.

“You are positive this is another girl?” Cora asked.

“Who knows, boy or girl, I am happy.”

“You really mean that, would you be happy with another girl?” Cora asked unsure.

Robert tightened his grip on Cora. “I am, truly. It doesn’t matter if it is a boy or a girl. All I want is a healthy baby. And I hope we will not have to wait for too long now.”

He guided Cora back inside. She laid down on the couch in the conservatory. The dancing had worn her out, but no sign of the baby yet. “You rest, I make dinner.”

“Can you please move the fan back inside, before you start cooking.”

+++

In the middle of the night, Cora woke up. She wasn’t sure why she woke up. She tried to get in a different position without waking up Robert. When she tried to turn around, she needed to go to the toilet. She barely managed to get up.

On her way back to the bed, she felt her legs getting wet. Her water broke. She steadied herself against a nearby chair. The first contraction she felt was pretty strong. “Robert.”

Robert only turned around but was sound asleep.

“Robert!” Cora tried again.

This time Robert woke up, a little bit disorientated he looked at her. He turned on the light and saw her wet pants. She was breathing heavily. “Has it started? Oh my, it started.” Robert jumped out of the bed, changed in his clothes. Grabbed Cora’s hospital bag, dumped it in the car and started the car. He then realised, Cora was still upstairs.

He ran back upstairs. Cora was still in the same place. “I can’t have you stress out, darling. This is the fifth time, please calm down.”

“I am sorry, it is just so exciting. Two weeks over time, but finally the day is here”

Edith had woken up and got down the stairs. She found her mother leaning heavily on her father, breathing away a contraction. “Good luck mama.” Cora tried to give her a smile.

+++

This time the doctors were prepared for a fast delivery. The birth of Sybil had almost taken place in the car. And this little one wasn’t far from a car birth either. Robert rushed Cora inside, who was fighting the urge to push.

Not much later, Cora got a little crying baby on her chest. The birth had been fast, but hard. Cora almost didn’t manage, to push through the end. But here she was, holding her little one in her arms.

“You can’t believe how proud I am of you. Oh darling, I love you so much.”

“Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Crawley, you have a baby boy.” The nurse said.

“A boy?” Robert’s whole face lit up and Cora’s eyes started twinkling.

Cora pulled aside the blanket and indeed, it was a little boy.

“Welcome to the world, Oliver……” Robert’s voice stopped.

“Oliver Robert” Cora filled in. “Named after his father.”

Robert couldn’t say anything, his eyes were filled with tears. He kissed Cora and Oliver.

+++

Cora had to stay in the hospital, she had lost a lot of blood during the birth. The first days she had only slept and fed Oliver. Robert stayed in the hospital. He was worried, he was going to lose Cora. She was really weak. But after a few days, she got her colour back on her cheeks.

“Darling, did the girls come already?” Cora asked with a weak voice.

“They did, very briefly, they will come once you are ready for it.” He turned around to pick up Oliver, who was crying. “This little one is hungry.” He helped Cora to sit up and gave her Oliver.

“Will you please call the girls, I want to see them.” Cora said, while she latched Oliver on her breast.

+++

Cora was sitting up in bed. She felt a lot better, she had gotten a blood transfusion. The door opened and all three of her girls were standing there, behind them all three partners.

“Congratulations, mama. You did wonderful papa told us.” Mary was the first one to say something.

Sybil followed with Sybbie on her arm. Edith had stayed behind a little bit.

“Girls, I am so sorry to bring a brother into this world the same age as your children.”

“Mama, don’t you worry about that.” Sybil said. “They will have a special bond later in life.”

They had talked for some time, even Tom, Matthew and Michael were chatting freely.

“Girls, it is time to go. Your mama needs her rest.”

They all kissed Cora goodbye. Edith was the last one. Cora grabbed her hand. “Can you stay a little bit longer?” Cora asked. “Robert, can you leave us alone, please?”

Robert looked surprised, but followed Cora’s request and walked out with, Mary, Matthew, Sybil, Tom and Sybbie.

“Edith, please tell me what’s wrong.”

“How do you know something is wrong?” Edith answered.

“I am your mother, and I sense something is wrong.”

Edith sat down. “I might be pregnant.”

Cora’s face lit up. “Darling, what a wonderful news! But why such a sad face?”

“Michael has to go away for business, he will be gone for the next months. And what would papa say, I am pregnant before I am married.”

“Oh, that’s indeed sad news. Don’t you worry about your papa. I will talk to him. Dear, please enjoy this moment. Having a baby grow inside you is a wonderful feeling.”

“You only complained the last 3 months.” Edith said.

“I am 50 and you are 23. There is a big difference.” Cora winked. “Women on my age aren’t supposed to be pregnant.”