A Stooge's Teacher

Ch. 7 - Plans Change

Chapter 7 - Plans Change

"... oh, and honey, to answer your question." "What question?" Rachel looked confused. She hadn't asked a question but only wished her dad farewell as her train was entering the station. "The one from last night about feeling at home with someone after only a short time." "Oh, that one. What about it?" "Yesterday just wasn't the right moment to answer it, nor was this morning at breakfast with everyone there. – I know that for your brothers and for me and your mom love grew slowly. We took our time, but I know from firsthand experience with my relationship with Harriet that instant connection, and even fast love, is possible. You are capable of deep and fast emotions; you care about people and you like being surrounded by your favorite ones. Whatever it is you are feeling for this new man in your life, please, don't fight it. Do not overanalyze it. Just let it be. You'll figure it out as you go." A tear pricked the back of her eyes. Rachel hadn't expected such an emotional response at this moment. "Thanks, Dad!" She hugged him again and said: "I don't want to fight it." Her dad grinned. "Go on. The doors are about to close." Rachel jumped and rushed towards the nearest open door. Once inside, she waved to her dad, then made her way up the carriage looking for an open seat.

"Dear passengers, your attention, please. I'm sorry to have to tell you that our engine seems to have given up the ghost. We are working on fixing the problem and will keep you up to date with our progress."

I'm an hour out of Boston and now the engine has collapsed. I hope they'll fix it soon. – R

Oh no! Sounds bad. But I bet you've got loads to do to pass the time, don't you? – C

True. I got Harry, and I can check plans for the week. – R

How are you? Sober again? – R

Almost there, I'd say. But it's couch and CSPAN for me until I see you tonight. – C

I'd love to be on my couch right now. Well, I'll keep you in the loop on what's happening here. – R

Please do. *heartless kissing emoji* - C

Rachel started on her schedule and lesson plans for the week. With her junior homeroom gone for Shopping Week, she would have a few more free periods but on the other hand, would need to schedule calls or visits with the students in the late afternoons. While she worked, the minutes ran by, and the next update came about half an hour after the first. Progress was being made but they would have to be patient a little while longer. Apparently, they would be towed to the nearest station. Another thirty minutes later, they were told that the tow train was there and they would be moving again in a few.

Progress made. We're being towed into Worcester Main Station now. – R

*party emoji* - C

Rachel sat down on a bench. She was ready to cry as she would have to cancel her date with Colin. The train debacle meant a re-routing for her and hours more on the train until she'd be home.

They're changing the train. It's supposed to take about an hour. But I don't see it. So, it sucks but I think I have to cancel for tonight. I'll be home not much before 7 and after this ordeal, I just really want to relax on my couch with pizza and a movie. Please, forgive me. – R

There's nothing to forgive. I completely understand. Call me when you can and we'll make a new plan. *heartless-kissing emoji* – C

His feelings surprised him. He was gutted that he wouldn't see Rachel and that it would be days before they managed to get together. His week was packed and he remembered her saying something to that effect about her week too. He tried to focus on the CSPAN program again but his attention would slip and his mind turn to Rachel every five minutes. It freaked him out last night that he kept glancing at his phone, yearning to find a message from her but not receiving any. At some point during the late hours of the party, when the program had finished, Rory found him. He tried to hide his phone and disappointment but she wasn't fooled for a second and hit the nail on the head.