Once Upon A Broken Dream: A Creativia Anthology

by Richard M. Ankers

  Having been raised with a few sheep and a horse Geraldine was not averse to animals. But, at her time of life, she had neither really expected or wanted to take on another one, especially one which needed to be seen to in all weathers. But Geraldine was good to her word, and when her neighbour had died, there was nobody else to look after her affectionate little donkey. So Geraldine had stepped up and gave it a home. She wasn't really enamoured by its wiry brown coat, but very taken with the way it looked at her, and so a mutual level of affection had soon grown to one where neither really liked to be away from the other for any length of time.

  Despite her initial reservations, Geraldine enjoyed spending more time outdoors with Blossom. In the summer, she would sit and read her favourite book to Blossom in the shade of the barn. Although Geraldine knew that she wouldn't understand the words it seemed to give them both comfort. Both gentle and quiet, they spent many hours there just enjoying the company of a likeminded soul. It was an unlikely pairing, but one which worked.

  * * *

  Monty walked more quickly. He was sure that his arms had grown at least a foot because of the weight of his shopping, but he was determined neither to stop, or drop any of it.

  “Why do I always do this?” he asked himself. His arms aching and his breathing not quite as good as it would have been had he only bought the essentials. “When will I learn?.”

  As he reached the stone steps of the vicarage he wished that he lived on a nice flat road instead of a hill which felt more like a mountain. Where did I put that key? he thought. He sighed knowing that the inevitable search for his key would not only often go on for several minutes, but when he did find it it would be in the first pocket that he had looked in.

  Being organized wasn't one of Monty's strengths. He annoyed himself over and over again because on a daily basis he either couldn't find something that should be right in front of him, or would lose them again straight after finding them. This was more of a problem because the vicarage was a large old house where there was plenty of room to lose things. So, the space it provided didn't help him at all, however much he liked living there.

  Monty staggered up the wide stone steps and surprised himself by finding his key straight away. He had never quite managed this before and gave a wry smile almost mocking his newfound key finding ability. He unlocked the door, put the tag from his keys between his teeth so that they swung excitedly in front of his mouth, and picked up his heavy bags of shopping before walking inside. Despite the weather the old house wasn't too cold. After all the years that he had lived there he had finally managed to work out the timer for the heating, so all was well.

  Monty unceremoniously dropped the shopping onto the old wooden table in the kitchen and closed the heavy red curtains to keep the cold at bay. He breathed a sigh of relief knowing that after putting the shopping away he could relax in front of the television with the other half of the large cottage pie that he had bought yesterday. He loved evenings where he could just relax because with responsibilities such as the evening services and choir practice they were few and far between.

  With a nice hot cup of tea and a steaming plate of cottage pie Monty took his place in his battered brown armchair in front of the television. Before switching it on he glanced at the small table by the side of him where the day's post sat. Nothing exciting he thought as he picked up the post and leafed through the envelopes. Then he came to a thicker envelope made of what looked like expensive cream paper which had gold lettering on the back denoting the name of a legal firm. He frowned and hoped that it wasn't bad news.

  After finishing his meal Monty put his plate and cutlery into the sink. Returning to his armchair he looked at the letter again and decided to open it.

  “Oh my!” he exclaimed. “What on earth do I know about donkeys? And why me?”

  With a pained expression creeping across his face he sank further back in his chair as he read the letter again. He sighed and rubbed his forehead with the palm of his hand.

  “How on earth can I look after a donkey?” he said. “And why did Geraldine Howe think that I could?” he asked with a bemused look on his face. I know she knew that I liked animals, but this is too much.

  Since Geraldine had passed away, just a short while ago, her donkey, Blossom, had been taken care of by well-meaning villagers. Now, it seemed, that Geraldine had set aside money with a request that Monty look after Blossom for the rest of her days, saying that she didn't want either of them to be lonely. The solicitor's letter had set out Geraldine's request as detailed in her will. Monty knew that it was kind in her own way to think of him. But also that having an animal was a great responsibility, especially as he had no idea how to look after a donkey. The letter confirmed that the field and barn where Blossom lived would also be Monty's to do with as he wished after Blossom eventually passed away. It also requested that Monty attend an appointment at the solicitor's office the following Monday morning at 10 o'clock sharp.

  For the following few days Monty didn't sleep well. His unexpected bequest had played on his mind and he knew that from today he must step up to the plate and take on his new responsibilities for Blossom. He had driven into the nearest town to find a book shop that might have a book on how to care for a donkey. But his journey was without success,so, he had looked on the internet and eventually found just what he was looking for, and had ordered it to arrive the next day.

  That had been two days ago now, and since then Monty had devoured it from cover to cover. Determined to both learn how to care for Blossom to the best of his ability, and not to let Geraldine down, he had learned about Hoof Deformity, Laminitis, and Grass Sickness otherwise known as Equine Dysautonomia, and it all seemed a little scary to him.

  But in those few days since he had received the solicitor's letter he had come to terms somewhat with what he would need to do to keep Blossom well and happy. He was determined to face any challenges head on for both her sake and his. He had decided that he would make a determined effort to get the best information and help, including that of Mr. Darby, the village vet. He hoped and prayed that he could do it.

  * * *

  Monty walked nervously into the office of Nevis and Brown. He hadn't been into a solicitor's office for a long time and so was a little nervous.

  “Good morning sir,” the receptionist said with a smile. “Please take a seat and Mr. Nevis will see you soon.”

  “Thank you” Monty said smiling awkwardly.

  He leafed nonchalantly through a magazine from the table in front of him. Not really reading it, more perusing it than anything.

  “Mr. Nevis will see you now sir,” motioning towards the door to her left.

  Monty nodded and made his way through the door.

  During the next half an hour Mr. Nevis explained what Geraldine had requested including the money he had been left to look after Blossom, and that the field and barn where she lived would be Monty's to do with as he wished when Blossom had finally passed. Monty nodded but didn't really take in much of the information. He still couldn't quite believe that he would be Blossom's owner and all of the responsibilities that that entailed.

  On his way home, despite being in best clothes, Monty decided to visit Blossom. She knew him quite well as he had visited with Geraldine several times. So when he leaned over the gate to her field and called her name, she plodded over to him without a fuss.

  “Well who would have thought it old girl?” he asked as he patted Blossom's back. “It's just you and me now.”

  Blossom brayed loudly and shook her head, looking up at him with her big brown eyes and beautiful long eye lashes. Monty smiled, “Don't worry old girl. It will all be OK.”

  * * *

  The weeks came and went, and life moved on. Monty was feeling much more confident in his abilities to care for Blossom, and except for the time that he spent at her field, his life ran on as normal. That was until he received a call from the Emma Smythe, the headmistress of the village school.

 
“Good morning Vicar, and how are you this fine day?” asked Emma.

  “Very well thank you,” said Monty. “You?”

  “As well as can be expected with a school full of excitable children.”

  “I'm sure they are, with the Christmas holidays soon approaching.”

  “Quite,” Emma answered. “That is actually the reason that I am calling, Vicar. I was just checking that Blossom will be able to perform her usual duties this year at the Christmas concert?”

  “What duties?” Monty asked.

  “Where she carries Mary as she makes her way into the stables for the nativity scene.”

  “Oh. I hadn't thought of that,” Monty glanced at his reflection in the mirror over the fireplace. “I…I mean I know that she always does play a part, but had forgotten about it entirely, this being the first year that I am in charge of her so to speak.” He sighed inwardly to himself at the thought of it, but at the same time knowing that they couldn't let the children down.

  “The dress rehearsal is Tuesday afternoon Vicar. I take it that you can both attend?.”

  Monty quickly checked his diary. “Yes of course,” he replied.

  “About 2pm then Vicar. Come to the side entrance and we will let you both in when the children are settled in their places.”

  “Yes. OK. See you then.”

  * * *

  The next few days came and went, and Monty busied himself with his usual duties. The only difference was that he had given Blossom a good wash and brushed her coat. She seemed to quite enjoy it he thought. They were gradually forging a trusting relationship which he was pleased about. Monty wasn't too worried about walking her the short distance along the lane from her field to the school. He was thankful that Blossom was quite a docile creature who seemed to enjoy any attention given to her from those passing by. They walked slowly along the lane but were at the school in just a few minutes.

  Judging from Emma's smile, she was pleased that they had arrived.

  “Just in time Vicar,” Emma said with a smile as they reached the verge by the side entrance. She opened the large oak doors and lead the way into the main hall of the school where the dress rehearsal was to take place. A long, gently rising slope at the back of the stage was where Blossom would make her grand entrance. Monty was pleased that it was one which she could easily walk on, not wanting her to slip before she got onto the stage. Blossom didn't disappoint, walking up it like an old pro. When she got to the top and onto the side of the stage the children all welcomed her warmly. Blossom seemed to lap up the attention and Monty smiled to see her so content. It was nice to see her so settled he thought.

  Monty looked at Emma as she clapped her hands.

  “Come along now children, all settle down. We have a lot to get through this afternoon.” They watched as the children all scurried into their allocated places and sat to await further instructions.

  Monty had already been informed that John, one of the older children, would lead Blossom the few paces from stage right to where she would stand for the rest of the show. Monty was pleased because his only job was to sit in the wings at the side of the stage and make sure that nothing unforeseen happened along the way. He nodded his approval when given his instructions and settled on the chair as directed. His smile grew as he listened to each performer say their lines. Some making mistakes, but not seeming to mind too much.

  Throughout the rehearsal Monty saw that Emma encouraged the children beautifully, knowing that for some it was a quite daunting task. He thought how pleased she looked at how even the little ones had coped, and he smiled when she told them that they could all choose a book to take home for the night in recognition of their sterling efforts. They all filed back to their classrooms looking pleased with themselves. Monty waved as they went and patted Blossom's side.

  “Thank you so much Vicar,” Emma said.

  “You're most welcome Emma,” Monty said with a smile.

  “Blossom was her usual calm self. We really are lucky that you agreed to let her attend.”

  “Think nothing of it Emma. See you on the big day.”

  “Yes Monty. See you on Friday,” Emma said, nodding and leading them back out of the large oak doors at the side of the building.

  Monty and Blossom walked back to her field peacefully. Even when a large lorry had come a bit too close to them she had just carried on walking as though she didn't have a care in the world. She was placid and calm throughout and Monty loved that about her.

  * * *

  The day of the performance quickly arrived and Monty made sure that Blossom looked her best again. They had received their instructions to be at the side entrance of the school at exactly 9.50am. Knowing that it would only take them a few minutes to walk there Monty led Blossom from her field in time to have a gentle meander along the way. She enjoyed the new smells and all was well. Monty could see the sea lapping below them in the bay. Even though it was nearly Christmas the sun shone on it making it shimmer. He thought that it looked beautiful.

  He saw that Emma looked flustered as she welcomed them.

  “Sorry for the wait,” she said as she opened the door. “I was trying to get the shepherds into line.”

  “Oh, don't worry about that,” Monty said with a smile. 'We are here and ready for Blossom's performance as planned'.

  Emma smiled and ushered them towards the slope at the back of the stage.

  “Come on old girl. It's time for you to play your part.” Then he gently led Blossom up the slope towards the stage.

  Within a few minutes the crowd had taken their seats and an excited air had filled the room. Monty stroked Blossom's side and he felt her relax. Then he handed the reins to John for him to walk Blossom the few steps onto the stage.

  Emma appeared a little flustered, but clapped her hands together briskly and smiled at the crowd. There were many familiar faces, and also a few that he hadn't seen before. As Emma looked around the room the whispers lessened and everyone looked towards the children up on the stage with anticipation.

  “Welcome everyone,” Emma said enthusiastically. “I am sure that you are all going to enjoy this year's performance. The children have worked incredibly hard and I am sure that you will give them a warm welcome,” and she smiled and motioning towards the stage as the crowd clapped loudly.

  Monty listened to Emma as she explained, “As usual we haven't charged for tickets for the show. However, we shall be collecting donations afterwards by the exit doors at the back of the hall. As usual all proceeds go towards school outings for the children,” she said pointing towards them. “Now, if you are all ready, we shall begin. The first carol is The Holly and The Ivy.”

  Emma turned to look at the children and signaled for them to stand up. She then nodded towards Mrs. Dent who was sat waiting at the piano and the music began.

  Monty joined in the singing heartily. He had always liked the Christmas carols and so he was as enthusiastic as usual, smiling broadly as he sang and looking around him admiring the wonderful costumes and set. This is a good day he thought.

  Blossom had behaved impeccably and all was well. The children were all doing as they were meant to, and everyone in the audience seemed duly impressed. Emma smiled at them all and gave them an encouraging smile.

  It was soon time for Blossom to carry Mary over to the manger. Monty watched as she went, secretly proud of how she had done exactly as asked. Mary sat by the manger and Joseph was just about to speak. The shepherds were also about to enter from the back and walk towards the manger to deliver their presents to baby Jesus.

  Suddenly there was a deafening bang. One of the shepherds had tripped and fallen into quite a large piece of scenery and before anyone could help him the scenery had come crashing down towards the floor with yet another loud bang sending puffs of dust up into the air that made everyone who was near enough cough and splutter. Luckily the falling piece of scenery had missed both the children and animals. But in fright many of them had started to scream loud
ly and to run towards the front of the stage.

  Parents dashed to help them down onto the floor below the stage, comforting them and telling them that that they would be fine. But as they did, Blossom bolted from her charge and made a run for it. Monty, who after too many cups of tea, had been to the lavatory when the commotion started, came back to the stage just in time to see John flying along the floor whilst trying with all his might to hold onto Blossom. '

  “Oh no! Oh dear. What on earth is going on?' Monty asked with a bemused look on his face as he saw the mayhem and flung himself as fast as could towards Blossom. Unfortunately, Monty wasn't quick enough and so Blossom carried on running to the front of the stage and down the steps towards the audience. John had managed to keep hold of Blossom's rein until she jumped off of the stage and then he had lost hold of it. Luckily, he had landed in the lap of Mrs. Shields the nursery class teacher, so although he was a little shaken, he was actually unhurt except for a slightly grazed leg.

  Amidst all of the confusion Monty managed to finally grab hold of Blossom's bridle and to calm her down. It was probably only seconds, but had seemed like hours. He tried to move her to the back of the hall as quickly as possible whilst dodging screaming children and bemused looking parents. Despite the chaos Monty managed to get Emma's attention. He signaled that he was going to take Blossom home and Emma nodded.

  In the meantime, John had thought it highly amusing to have been flying through the air like an aeroplane all helped along by Blossom. He thought it even more funny when he had landed in his teacher's lap, especially as she hadn't seemed at all amused by it. In fact, her horrified expression made him giggle. The more Mrs. Shields grimaced, the more John laughed.

  As his horrified mother approached him she saw that he was laughing almost to the point of not being able to control himself. He rocked back and forth and was pointing at Mrs. Shields enthusiastically as he guffawed. Then one by one the other children started to laugh and point at her too. The shepherds were particularly enthusiastic in their efforts which made Mrs. Shields blush. She had always hated being the centre of attention and by this time she was visibly squirming.