| General Fiction posted March 30, 2025 | Chapters: |
...5 6 -7- 8... 
|
From Eleanor and Friends
A chapter in the book For Sandra Stoner- Mitchell
Sandra's Get Well Story
by Begin Again
(Sent with love, prayers, smiles and hugs)
Delivered by your favorite ghosts
Eleanor and friends
Delivered by your favorite ghosts
Eleanor and friends
*****
The candlelight flickered, casting golden shadows on the stone walls as the room fell silent. From behind a towering velvet curtain, a figure emerged, draped in shimmering robes the color of parchment, with quills tucked into his sash like swords at the ready. His silver spectacles balanced precariously at the end of a long, dignified nose, and his beard flowed like wisps of old library smoke.
He tapped his scroll once (dramatically, of course), cleared his throat, and stepped into the circle of gathered spirits. Announcing —
"Ladies and Gentlemen of FanStory and Ghosts of Good Standing may I have your attention! By royal summons of Lady Eleanor of the Eternal Estate and under the seal of the High Quill Council of Whispering Winds and Proper Tea Drinkers, I present the following proclamation!"
"Spread the word through cobwebbed halls and cozy cottages, from misty moors to moonlit manors that our beloved Lady Sandra of Southampton, England, has taken ill."
"This sacred parchment bears witness to a gathering of the dearly determined Fanstorians and the dearly departed, who have sworn upon their teacups, biscuits, and spectral honor to restore her strength, rekindle her smile, and remind her that she is never, ever alone."
"And so, this mission is now underway by the light of flickering candles, warm soup, and the power of friendship."
******
The blue candle flickered, indicating calmness, serenity, communication, spiritual protection, and peace.
Eleanor felt it before the flame danced. A tug on her heart. A whisper from the other side — not from those no longer with us, but from someone very much alive and dearly loved.
"Sandra's not herself," Eleanor murmured. "Our beloved friend. The one who cheered when no one else dared. Who believed in us even when we were just echoes on the page."
"She brought us to life," James muttered, fiddling nervously with his ancient pocket watch. "And now she needs us? That's a twist, but one we gladly accept."
"I'll make soup," Lorrie declared, already bustling around the kitchen. "Carrots, celery, chicken and noodles, ghost herbs — comfort and goodness in a bowl." She huffed and added, "Because no one gets better on tea and dry toast. I'll add a spoonful of love and comfort to bring a smile."
"She always laughed at my cooking," Benny added. "Said it was an 'adventure in indigestion.' I miss her laugh."
Lorrie raised an eyebrow. "It's more likely the bourbon you're always imbibing. The lady likes her gin and tonic, you know."
Before Benny could offer a protest, Sebastian appeared in a swirl of celestial light, holding a scroll that sparkled like Roman candles. "Lady Ulla of Spain sent word through the realms, summoning Fanstorian support."
Lorrie brushed her hands against her apron and wiped a tear from her eye. "Oh, bless that girl. It's so kind of Ulla to suggest it."
"And Graham?" Eleanor asked. "How's he holding up?"
"He's right by Sandra's side," Sebastian replied. "Loyal as ever. Regardless of his undying love, he's only human. We've got to give her a spiritual pick-me-up."
Eleanor studied the glowing parchment Sebastian had handed her. Her voice softened as she read aloud —
"We're gathering words, lifting her up — a card, a note, a poem — each one a thread of love. If anyone can reach her, it's us." signed Ulla.
"And it's not just Ulla," Sebastian added. "The messages keep coming like the wind knows her name."
He unrolled a second scroll, long and shimmering, words scrawled in every style of ink.
"Sandra's strength has lifted so many — now let ours carry her." — Debra
"She always knew how to find light in the dark." — Wendy
"Her words wrapped around us like a hug." — Rhonda
"Tell her I'm sending all my love. Always." — Teri
"God bless her. I will keep her in my prayers." — Debi
"I salute your courage for taking this step. Prayers and best wishes." — Pam
"I trust she'll return to us soon and in good health. That is my prayer." — Sally
Eleanor's eyes glistened. "It's not just our mission anymore. It's a gathering of hearts — theirs and ours."
James peeked over her shoulder. "That one signed it with a drawing of a cat in a top hat."
"Ah, Helen," Eleanor smiled. "Always the stylish lady. She has such a big, caring heart."
The scroll glowed brighter.
"Then let's not delay," Lorrie said. "We'll bring the soup, the sass, the sparkle, and the love. All of it."
"Let's gather the team," Eleanor said. "She was always there for us. It's time we return the favor."
*****
The door to Sandra's cozy room creaked (not spooky, of course), and friendly giggles and tiptoeing followed.
Sandra stirred, not fully awake or asleep, but knowing something was happening. She sensed their presence. A smile touched her lips.
First came the smell of chicken soup. Then, a clatter as James tripped over Lorrie's floating ladle. Her faint voice complained, "Well, if you didn't insist on appearing through the dresser mirror." She glared at him. "That's why the living use doors."
Donatelli, still in his leather coat and sunglasses, stepped forward first. "Sandra, dear, we've heard you were under the weather. I brought sarcasm, stubbornness, and my favorite mystery novels by Begin Again. You know, the ones we are in. And for a dash of humor, the Cowboy is here as well. That should make you laugh."
Jenna, radiant and kind, brushed a stray hair from Sandra's forehead. "I made you tea. I don't know if ghosts can steep it properly, so I used the good leaves. The ones I save for Mum."
Sandra offered her a lovely smile. "And how's the baby?"
Returning the smile, she blushed happily, "Growing every day. I'm teaching her to say your name."
Garth stood back a moment before offering a notebook. "You can write in it later. Or draw. Or make lists of the things you love. Just don't give up, because we all know you've got plenty of stories hankering to be told. And so many clamoring to read them."
Benny raised his glass, which shimmered with something golden. "This one's for you, Sandra. And Graham, too. You've both stood tall through every storm. Now, let us be your umbrella. It might be leaky at times, but it's one made of love."
Sebastian unrolled his glittering decree —
You are hereby granted full permission to rest, nap, snack, smile, grumble, and get better in your own time. Anyone who argues will receive a large dose of what-for from Lorrie and the rest of us. We only want you to get better.
Eleanor stepped forward last, her voice warm. "Sandra, if you feel tired, lean on us. If you feel lost, listen for our laughter. If you feel alone — remember this — we're but a breath away. Just call and we'll be here."
Lorrie sniffled and placed a steamy bowl of soup on the nightstand. "I added extra carrots and lots of chicken. Just the way you teased me about."
And with a soft breeze and a twinkle of candlelight, they were gone with sparkles of love hanging in the air.
All that remained was a handwritten note tucked gently under Sandra's pillow, penned in Carol's hand —
Dear Sandra,
This isn't just from Eleanor or her gang. It's from me — your forever friend. You've been my anchor, my spark, and my cheerleader when I didn't believe in myself. I couldn't just send a card when someone as special as you deserved a story of her own.
I hope you know that each night when you see that little angel on your nightstand, you're not just seeing a gift. You're seeing a part of me. My spirit is right there with you, keeping watch while you sleep, whispering prayers into the quiet for comfort, strength, and a gentle, speedy recovery.
We want only the best for you, Sandra. We—Graham, Ulla, me and every soul—living or ghostly — who has ever been touched by your heart — love you beyond words, Sandra.
So, know you're never alone. We're all right here, soup and sparkles included. Rest, breathe, and return when you feel you are ready.
With smiles, hugs, and all my love,
Carol
 Recognized |
I wrote this especially for you, Sandra, hoping it will make you smile and laugh when you and Graham read it together. It's different, but then so am I. LOL.
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