Chapter 42

Chapter 42: Understanding

 

The next few weeks were very routine and today we were sitting at the kitchen table discussing the upcoming memorial service, tomorrow.  It was hard to believe that time was moving so quickly; it was already the last week of July and Isolde had been feverishly working in the trailer for over a week now, and she still couldn’t tell us much.

I decided to get my outfit for tomorrow picked out and then sat on the couch in the family room reading a book.  Alex entered and walked over to me.

“Max wants to go over what we are planning tomorrow for the memorial service,” he smiled softly at me.  He was worried about me going tomorrow, as he knew there was a good possibility that my father would be there.

“Sure, let’s go.” I put my book down and stood up ready to follow him.  Instead he pulled me into his arms and crushed me to his chest.  I melted into his arms enjoying the sudden fierceness of the embrace.

“What is this all about Alex?” I asked in a whisper, looking up at him.

“I don’t want you to go tomorrow.  I want you to stay here where it’s safe, but I know you’ll go and I know it’s the right thing to do, I just don’t like it,” he sighed.

“Will Isolde be coming with us, or is she staying here?” I asked.

“She’ll be here.  Katie and Stephan will be keeping an eye her,” he replied.

“Come on then, we shouldn’t keep Max waiting.” I smiled up at him and he nodded.  We walked into the study hand in hand.  Everyone was there except Isolde; she was outside in the trailer pouring over all of the information she had trying to find an answer for me.

“Anna, glad you’re here we were discussing tomorrow and I think we have everything figured out.  We plan on going as a family and you, James and Alex will go together.  We’ll set up positions around you in groups of two while we are walking into and out the service and we’ll be sitting around you strategically.  That way all sides are covered and your father and his men won’t be able to get at you.  Does that sound okay?” Max was, as always, trying to keep me a part of the decisions that had already been made.  He was a good father figure and I enjoyed how he treated me like one of his own.

“Yes, that sounds good.  Is there anything in particular that I need to know before we leave in the morning?” I looked at him with concern.

“You and Alex will be meeting James at his place in the morning and driving together from there.  Other than that, we just have to wait and see if anything will happen.  I don’t think your father would be foolish enough to try anything with such a large crowd of witnesses.  It’s not his style.” he said confidently.

“Anna?  Anna?  Are ya here somewhere?” Isolde called from the front of the house.

“We’re in the study, Isolde,” I called to her.

She entered the room quickly and a bit breathless.  She looked at the others and then turned her attention to me.

“Be there any others that know of ya tha’ aren’t’ere?” she asked quickly.

“James is the only one who isn’t here, but he could be in a few minutes if he needs to be present,” Max said to her.  She nodded her head.

“I believe tha’ would be wise,” she replied.

Max dialled the number instantly and waited for James to answer.

“James, Max here.  We need you to come to the house now, Isolde is ready,” Max said into the receiver.  He listened for a few minutes and then hung up.

“He’ll be here in ten,” he said looking at Isolde with unveiled curiosity.  He knew she had something big to tell us, especially if she wanted all parties here.

“Let’s go to the living room, we’ll be more comfortable there,” Katie suggested.  We all moved into the family room.  Max stood by the front door waiting for James to arrive, Katie and Isolde were sitting in the blue chairs at the far end of the room on either side of the large screen TV.  Cassy, George, Will and Lizzy sat on one couch while Alex, Stephan and I sat on the other.  James arrived a few minutes later, in casual jeans and t-shirt. 

“What’s up?” James asked as he entered the house a little breathlessly.

“Isolde wanted everyone to be present when she told Anna what she has discovered,” Max replied.  James nodded and sat on the couch next to me.  He squeezed my hand and turned his attention to Isolde.

“Isolde, you can begin whenever you are ready,” Max gestured offering her the floor.  She stood up, walked over to me, and handed me a large file folder with papers and CDs.  I looked at her curiously.

“This be all the information I was able to gather on ye.  Please put it somewhere safe where no one will be able ta get at it easily,” she stated seriously.  I looked at Alex and he nodded taking the file from me. He disappeared and returned seconds later taking his seat again without a word.

“Okay, I’ll be get'n started.  Yer fader is a carrier of the very first occurrence of a particular virus, but it be dormant in’im.  This virus, when active is wha’ changes a human inta a vampire.  I’ave never seen it in a human before like this, however.  It’s as though he be genetically engineered tha’ way through years of blood line manipulation.  If I be right, then yer fader wants ya very badly an I can tell ya why.  I’ve guessed who your fader be, ya don look like him at all, but if I be right, it’s Enrique Reyes from Spain.  His family be very powerful.  Even me parents stay out of their business.  If tha’ be who yer family is, I be not surprised tha’ yer mudder ran.  It was the best thing she could’ave done ta protect ye.  They would’ave killed her if she tried ta interfere wi ’anything, if she’ad stayed they would’ave just used her as a baby factory.  I should explain yer mudder’s part in this before I tell ye why your fader and ‘is family wants ye so badly.  Yer mudder is a carrier of a very rare gene.  This gene will, when combined with the virus, create a new strain o’the virus.  It be taken years before it will cause a change, eighteen years ta be exact.  What that change is depends on the strain of virus it interacts with.  Tha’s ‘ow the different generations of vampires came into existence.  We know of about ten generations which includes children like Cassy, Will, Alex an Lizzy.  I be a part o’the tenth generation, only I stayed human.  My extra abilities are sight and hearin’, an’ I do age, but vera slowly.  I actually be an anomaly of the tenth generation.  Both my parents be vampires, an’it be a very rare occurrence for vampires to conceive; probably only once every few ‘undred years.  Alex, Lizzy, Cassy and Will are half human, an’ half vampire which means they’ave all the abilities of a vampire but they’ave a stronger heart beat.  Some vampires’ave other abilities, some don’t, an’the older they get the stronger they get.  Now, when it comes to you,” she turned her attention to me, rather than addressing the room like she had been.  “I be pretty sure tha’ ye’ll be more like Max’s family than any of us realizes.”

“Are you saying I’m turning into a vampire?” I asked in stunned confusion.

“Aye, tha’s a possibility, o’what I be say’n, only tha’ you will have abilities far beyond wha’ any o’us’as ever seen.  Min’ye, I could be wrong, but it will change ye completely an’yer fader an’is family want to use tha’ in order ta gain more power.  Tha’s what this be all ‘bout, control.  Yer fader’s family’as control over most of da industries o’the world, only no one knows tha’.  The matriarch o’ta family’as been in control fer a vera long, time an’she be not one ta be messed with.  Even if ye manage ta get away from yer fader an’is family, da aftermath o’tha’ betrayal to them will surely enrage them enough ta do something rash.  Ye all need to understand tha’ yer not only dealing with humans, but ye may also be dealing with a vera, vera, powerful vampire who uses its family as pawns in a game, an’she does no like ta loose,” Isolde said with conviction.

“Thank you Isolde, you have been a tremendous help,” Katie said gratefully. “I just hope we haven’t put you in any danger because of this.”

“Don’ worry ‘bout me, m family is well protected.  I be more worried about all o’you,” Isolde looked at all of us with concern in her eyes. 

 

I sat in stunned silence.  Isolde had explained so much about all the strangeness I had been experiencing, I was turning into a vampire.  I felt the blood draining from my face as I thought of all the things she had told us.  Alex watched me quietly as he pulled me in tighter to his chest.  I looked at him without really seeing him, instead I looked past him out the window and into the trees.  I caught a flash of light and focussed in on it, easily spotting a man dressed in black with a strange device in his hand up in one of the trees.

“There’s someone in the trees,” I whispered barely audibly, Stephan was gone in an instant.  A few moments later he had pulled the man out into the open.

“Alex, I’m going to lie down.  I’ve had enough excitement for one day.  I don’t think I can handle much more today,” I said as I rose to my feet and headed for Alex’s room.

“Anna, are you okay?” Alex asked with concern.

“No, not really.  I need to process what I’ve learned, and I need to figure out how I feel about this.  Just give me some time alone, okay?  I think better by myself.” I looked pleadingly into his eyes and gently touched his face with my fingers.  He nodded without saying a word.

 

I curled up on the bed in Alex’s room, and smiled to myself.  I guess I should really call it our room.  So, what did I think about turning into a vampire?  Well that would explain the night vision, I haven’t noticed any other changes with my scenes, so I guess that would be coming.  Okay, I could handle enhanced hearing and strength.  It doesn’t explain the energy field though, unless that’s an extra skill.  Well, that would be cool too.  Moving at great speeds would be really interesting, but I had already sort of done that once.  I loved it when Alex ran me to school.  Drinking blood? Could I handle that? It might explain the cravings I’ve been having for steak.  I could experiment I guess, meh, maybe not.  I shivered.  I closed my eyes and tried to picture myself as a vampire, but all I could do was picture myself pale and sick.  Well, it doesn’t really matter does it?  It’s not like I have a choice, I’m going to change whether I want to or not.  I decided I could handle most of it, and I would deal with the rest as it came. 

 

I slept for about two hours and when I woke up I realized there were a few questions I needed to have answered.  I blasted out of the room and arrived in the family room in seconds. The sudden motion of my ‘warp speed’ startled me and I felt suddenly nauseated.  I turned quickly to the bathroom by the front door before I lost my breakfast.

Alex was at my side in seconds, holding my hair back.

“Anna, are you okay?  Ddo you need me to get something?” he sounded worried.

“Just motion sickness I think,” I replied as I retched again. 

“Motion sickness?  From what?” he asked confused.

“Well, I just had my first experience with that whole speed thing that you do.  I wasn’t expecting to do that so I was a bit taken off guard that’s all,” I replied.  I turned on the tap and rinsed my mouth out. 

“I need to go brush my teeth.  Is Isolde around?  I need to ask her a question or two.” I walked slowly back to our room while Alex followed behind, making sure I really was okay.

“I’ll get her in a minute.  You ran like me?” he asked curiously.

“Yes.  From our room to the family room.  It was like I made the decision to be in the family room and then I was there.  It was rather disorienting.” I half smiled as I walked into our bathroom and started to brush my teeth.

“Huh. You’ve never said our room before, I like that.” He smiled as he leaned forward and kissed the back of my neck.  Finished brushing, I turned to face him and put my arms around his neck.  He wrapped his arms around my waist and pulled me into a gentle embrace.

“Are you okay with all of this Anna?” he asked quietly searching my face.

“Most of it I think I can handle, but some things I’m not so sure about.” I smiled wanly.

“I can understand that.  I’ll help you get through all of the changes.  You know that, right?” he said softly.

“Yes, I know you, Lizzy, and everyone else will help me, but I still need to talk to Isolde.  I have one more important question to ask her, and I think this might involve you as well.” I slipped my hand into his and started for the family room at a normal pace.  We found Isolde and Max in the backyard still questioning the man who had been in the trees.

 

“Isolde, can I speak to you for a moment?” I asked.

“O’course ye can,” Isolde replied with a smile.  She walked gracefully toward us like a dancer.

“I have a few more questions that perhaps you could answer.  The legend of the Rising Starr states that I have to be claimed.  What does that mean exactly? Will I be forced to go with my father?” I asked fearfully.

“I be not sure exactly but there be a time when ye change that yer loyalties will be to blood kin and blood kin alone.  Tha’ tie ta family is stronger than most an’tha’ may be what the legend be referring to. Why do ye ask?” She looked at me questioningly.  Max was listening as well and Alex looked horror stricken.

“On my eighteenth birthday I have to meet my father.  He plans on claiming me, and I guess there really is no hope of getting away from him, is there?” I looked down at my feet sadness taking over.

“Ye don’ know tha’ child.  Yer bond ta this family be also strong.  Perhaps even strong enough ta bind ye ta them.  The real question be, would they claim ye fer themselves?” Isolde explained patiently.

“I would never ask that of any of them,” I looked into her pale grey eyes sadly.

“Tha’ be a decision fer the family ta make, not ye.” She looked at Alex and then Max with a poignant stare. 

“Isolde, will I become a full vampire like Max and Katie, or will I be different like Alex?” I cocked my head to the side hoping I phrased my question right.

“I don’ know tha’ answer ta tha’.  I suspect tha’ ye’ll be both different and similar.  We won’ be know’n until it’appens.  I’d like ta stay an’’elp ya through tha’ process if ya don’ mind.” she looked at me hopefully.

“Yes, I’d like that.  It’s nice to have someone around who understands the changes that are happening to me.  Well, at least sort of.” I smiled weakly at Isolde and she nodded.

“I’ll be watch’n over ye child.”

I nodded and then turned my focus on the man George was holding in place with a single hand.

“Don’ worry ‘bout tha’ right know, we ‘ave some interesting news ta tell ye.” Isolde smiled.

I looked at her questioningly as Max grinned at me.

“It looks like this man is willing to tell us pretty much anything.  Your father sent him here to find out what you know about yourself.  Apparently he’s hoping you haven’t figured it out yet,” Max smirked.

“Max, would I be able to turn against them? Would I be able to fight them?” I asked.

“That depends on you.  Your bonds to us are strong, but a family bond can be stronger. Alex is bound to you already in more than one way because you saved his life by giving him your blood, plus his intense feelings for you.  I believe that wherever you go he’ll follow and there is nothing your father can do about that.” Max stated smugly.

“What do you mean?” I looked from Alex to Max.

“Vampires choose only one person to be with Anna, and once that choice is made it changes us forever,” Alex whispered into my ear.  My eyes widened as I looked up into amazing swirling green eyes.  All of his emotions were there for me see, something he rarely showed to anyone.

“Max is right.  I would follow you wherever you went, even if it’s only in the shadows.  I would always try to bring you home, back to our family,” he said with such intense feeling that I couldn’t help but feel his love for me.  I nodded and smiled up at him warmly.  I loved him and his family, almost more than life and I wanted to stay.  Isolde watched us carefully and then gave Max a strange knowing look.  He nodded to her and they smiled at each other.

“So what does he know?” I pointed to the man who had been questioned while I was dealing with the knowledge of becoming a vampire.

“Your father knows where you are staying, obviously, and he’s hoping you haven’t figured out that you’ll become a vampire.  He’s also trying to figure out what he can use as leverage to get you to do what he wants and he’s completely baffled as to why you’re staying with us,” Max retorted amused.

“He doesn’t get why I’m here/ What? Is he really that stupid?” I asked in disbelief.

“Apparently he is,” Alex mused.

“He knows that George and Stephan are your protectors, but he does not believe in the ties of friendship or love.  The only ties he knows is to his grandmother and that’s why he doesn’t understand you.  You grew up with your mother and she taught you about friendship and love whereas your father only knows fear and loyalty to his grandmother.  At least that is what we have managed to figure out with what little information we have on the man,” Max said confidently.

“So there may be hope after all.  I don’t know my father except as a murderer, so there is no bond of love there.  Only the fact that he is biologically related to me could cause problems,” I mused to myself.

“We’ll figure it out Anna,” Alex stated.

“So what are we going to do with him?” I asked, gesturing again to our captive.

“He looks like a pretty good snack.” George replied with an evil grin.  The man stiffened, fear rippling through him as his horrified eyes met mine, pleading.

“Yes, I’m sure he does George, but could we not use him to our own benefit?” I grinned trying not to laugh at George’s theatrics.

“You just had to go and spoil all my fun, didn’t you?” he said with mock petulance.

“Well, if he doesn’t do what you want him to, then by all means snack away, but perhaps we could send him back to my father with a simple, but misleading story.  I know how good you are at telling stories.” I smiled widely at George as his eyes twinkled with mirth as we used a play on words to terrorise our captive.  George finally nodded and decided what the man should tell my father and went to work reprogramming the spy’s mind.

“Now, don’t forget, if you deviate from the story at all I’ll have you for dinner.  Am I clear?” George asked the man.  He nodded, terrified.  George then let him go, and we watched until he was out of sight.

“Why George, I had no idea that you could be so supremely terrifying!  You almost gave that man a heart attack,” I teased.

“Watch it kid, or I’ll do it to you next time,” he barred his teeth and growled playfully at me.  I placed a hand to my throat in mock terror and then giggled.  George ruffled my hair and went to discretely follow the escaping spy.

“I’ve definitely had enough excitement for one day.  So what are we having for dinner?” I asked, looking hopefully at Alex.

“Let’s go find out.” Alex grabbed my hand and pulled me towards the front of the house.           

Chapter 41

Chapter 41: Dr. Isolde McNeil

 

When I finally woke, I was my own bed with Alex’s arms still wrapped around me.

“When did we get home?” I asked groggily

“About three hours ago.  I didn’t want to wake you,” he replied softly.

“What did you do to me on the plane?” I asked as I woke up more.

“I guess you could say I hypnotized you.  In a way that’s just what we call it.  I used the suggestive power of my voice and the relaxing quality of my sent to lull you to asleep.  That’s what we do to human prey.  If George had done that to you, you would have been out in seconds. With me it took a bit longer because I’m not yet a full vampire.  Although I’m just as effective as George, but I wasn’t sure how long you would be out for.” He gave me a crooked smile as I sat up.  I ran my fingers through my hair trying to clear my head, then I remembered my reflection yesterday and how strangely I looked.

“Do I still look like a ghost?” I asked wide-eyed with worry as I looked into his eyes.

“No. You are back to normal.  You’re a bit pale but certainly not opaque, like earlier.  You really had us worried, that’s why we rushed home.  We were actually planning on spending a night in Miles City, but we didn’t think it would be safe.” His voice was still laced with concern.  My stomach took that opportunity to growl loudly, I rolled my eyes and shook my head.

“I guess I should get something to eat.  We don’t have steak by any chance do we?” I asked sheepishly looking at my hands, but secretly hoping to satisfy that craving.

Alex gave me a big grin and nodded.

“How do you want it done?” he laughed.

“Medium rare, but more on the rare side, if you please,” I replied with a smile.  I got up slowly to test out my balance and then went to the washroom to wash my face and brush my hair. Overall, I felt like I’d been hit by a truck, but Alex was right.  I didn’t see any sign of that haunted-looking girl from yesterday when I looked in the mirror.  When I walked back into the room, Alex put gathered me into his arms and held me tightly for a minute.  I sighed quietly, perfectly content.  He then swung me up into his arms and carried me to the kitchen.

“I can walk you know,” I looked sideways at him, only slightly annoyed.

“I’m aware of that but I enjoy annoying you and I love seeing you blush.  Unfortunately for me, it didn’t work this time,” he smiled as he sat me on a chair.

“How are you feeling?” Katie asked as she and Max entered the room.

“Okay, I think.  I’m more hungry than anything else.” I looked at all their worried faces.  It was really hard to look at everyone; they were all so worried about these strange changes in me that came on suddenly and went away just as fast.

“I’ve called a friend of mine to come and check you out.  She’s a doctor, and has been for about a hundred years, and we are hoping she might be able to shed some light onto your unique situation,” Max said watching me cautiously for my reaction.

“She’s a vampire,” I stated bluntly.

“No, not exactly.  She’s an anomaly.  She’s human, but her parents are vampires.  She doesn’t age at the same rate as humans do, but she still ages.  However, her life span is undetermined.  At any rate, I think she’s very interested in meeting you.  She’ll be here tomorrow.” Max explained as Alex pulled the steak out of the fridge.  The smell of it was overpowering to me; I realized I could have eaten it raw as my stomach growled in response to the intense smell.  Max and Katie smiled at me, amused, but certainly not surprised at my reaction.

“When did you last feed this poor girl Alex?” Katie demanded.

“Last night I think,” I replied absently as he lightly spiced the steaks.

“If you expect to keep her around, you should be taking better care of her.” Katie took the steak from him and walked out to the deck and put them on the barbeque.  She returned to the kitchen and started making the rest of dinner.  Alex crossed his arms and glared at her.  Katie was unfazed.

“I don’t care what your excuses are Alex.  Anna needs to eat at least three times a day and you are slacking!” she teased.  He glowered at her.  I stifled a giggled.  He looked at me in disbelief that I would take her side.

“Don’t blame him.  Alex was rather preoccupied with my ghost like appearance at the time.” I grinned at him and winked.

 

Alex, Will, Cassy, Lizzy and I ate dinner in the kitchen while Max, Katie, George and Stephan watched.  If someone had been watching us they would think that we were just sitting down to a regular evening meal.  Our dinner conversation was light and relaxed, leaving the more serious issues to be discussed later.

“I’d like to start going through everything I brought back tomorrow.  I’m not exactly sure what I have, so it may take a few days,” I commented to the group.

“We’ll help, of course!  That way it won’t take as long,” Lizzy said cheerfully.

“Thanks, I’d like that,” I smiled gratefully at her.

“I think you should get to bed early tonight Anna.  I know you feel fine, but I think it would be prudent if you had as much rest as possible over the next few weeks,” Katie said using her motherly no-nonsense voice.  I nodded in agreement.

“How was the assembly at the school?” I questioned, interested in the answer.

“The memorial will be held in two weeks at the school.  The family wants time to grieve on their own before they deal with everything else.  No one even realized that Lizzy wasn’t you, she apparently does a very good impersonation of you.” Max looked fondly at her.

“Should I be worried?” I teased.

“I don’t think so,” Stephan smiled “She’s pretty good, but she can’t blush the way you do and if anyone was really paying attention, they would have figured it out.” He teased Lizzy. She glared back at him and stuck her tongue out like a four year old.  We all started laughing.  We talked quietly for the rest of the evening, discussing the upcoming memorial for Jeff.

 

It was raining out this morning.  A cool breeze was coming in through the open window and I stretched luxuriously and listened to the birds singing.  It was peaceful and joyful music, the birds sounded as though they were playing happily with one another.  A little while later there was a knock on the door.

“Come in,” I said quietly.

“Anna, you awake yet?” Lizzy asked as she stepped into the room.  I rolled onto my side grabbed Alex’s pillow and buried my face in it.  Inhaled deeply. I sighed, missing him; Alex had gone hunting last night and wasn’t back yet.  Lizzy put her hand on her hip and started tapping her foot as she arched her perfectly sculpted brow at me.

“Are you just going to lie there until he comes home?” she demanded teasingly.

“Yup, that’s my plan,” I answered smugly.  Her eyes narrowed and a split second later she dove onto the bed landing on me. I groaned.

“Not happening! Get up lazy bones we got stuff to do!” Lizzy happily beamed at me happily.

“You truly enjoy torturing people in the morning don’t you?” I asked moaning as I slowly rolled over shoving her off me.

“Of course! It’s fun!  Especially when the tormentee is not a morning person,” she was so happy it was really annoying.

The next thing I knew I was being attacked by a pillow.  So what could I do but defend myself?  I grabbed my pillow and swung it at Lizzy and that’s when the pillow fight started.  We were giggling loudly and beating each other soundly with the fluffy softness when suddenly the pillows exploded into a white cloud of feathers.  We sat there convulsing with laughter as the white down drifted throughout the room.  She took in the scene and chuckled softly.

“Girls, I think you had better clean up this mess before Alex gets home,” she smiled.

“Later. I need a shower and I’m starving,” I replied.

“No problem. I’ll put some eggs on,” Katie said as she left the room.

Lizzy dashed out of the room after Katie.  I sighed, surveying the mess.  It looked like it had snowed in Alex’s room.  I shook my head jumped into the shower.  I got clean and food first.  Priorities.

I turned the water off, put my robe on and exited the bathroom to find Alex sitting in the middle of the bed in a pile of feathers with his arms crossed over his chest and a smirk on his face.

“I leave you alone for one night and you trash our room?” he looked at me curiously.

“Lizzy attacked me with a pillow this morning and it got a teensy weensy bit out of hand,” I said sheepishly, avoiding his eyes. I peeked up at him biting my lip.  He burst out laughing.

“I’ll clean up the mess, I just wanted to get something to eat first.  Promise.” I walked slowly towards him and stopped directly in front of him.  His arms flashed past me and before I knew it, Alex pulled me into him and twisted so that I was lying on the bed.  I took a deep breath and looked into his eyes.  He leaned down and brushed his lips over mine causing me to automatically lace my fingers into his hair and pull him closer.  He tightened his arms around my waist, then whispered into my ear.

“Next time you have a pillow fight, I hope to be here to watch.” There was a suggestive teasing note to his voice; I could almost guess what he was thinking.  I hit him jokingly on the chest.

“Get your mind out of the gutter.” I said laughing.

“What? I just mentioned I wanted to watch.  I want to place a bet on who would win,” he said faking innocence.

“Ya, okay, sure.  Now let me up.  I’m hungry and I have to pick all the feathers out of my hair.” I shook my head for emphasis causing a puff of feathers to become airborne.

“Leave them, I kind of like it,” he teased as he pulled me back to bed using the belt of my robe.

“You’re such a guy” I said in mock exasperation as I sat up and brushed my fingers through my hair.

“Ya, I would hope so,” he whispered smirking as he placed his hand on my face and then slowly traced a finger down my throat.  My breathing increased instantly and my eyes closed as I enjoyed the sensation of his hand moving on my skin.  My robe fell open slightly exposing my right breast and his hand slowly moved down the centre of my chest to my abdomen and then back up to gently cup my breast.  I gasped at the intensity of the new feelings he was causing in me and I couldn’t help but want more as his lips kissed the side of my neck and slowly moved down to the hollow of my throat.  He pushed the robe off my shoulders and gazed at me for a moment as he slowly moved his hands along my sides.  My heart was hammering as I leaned forward and brushed my lips against his.  He stiffened suddenly and pulled my robe back up onto my shoulders.  He closed his eyes and shivered slightly as he tried to gain control of himself and my breathing started to slow.

“I don’t want you to stop,” I whispered breathlessly.

“I know, but I don’t want to rush you.  I shouldn’t have taken that indulgence, but I couldn’t help myself,” he said softly as his eyes clouded slightly.

“Alex, I want to be with you.  I want you to touch me. I want it more than I can stand some days!” I said quietly.

“Not until you’re of age.  We’ll just have to wait a bit longer.  Believe me, it took everything in me to stop.  I want to be with you more than anything, Anna, but it isn’t right to rush you into something like this when you’re not ready.  I know you think you’re ready, but you have enough stress with what’s coming and I won’t add to that,” he said gently and sighed, then kissed me as he stood up.

“I’ll get a garbage bag so that we can clean this mess up.” Alex smirked and left the room, coming back a few seconds later.  I was buttoning up my jeans as he entered the room and once I finished getting dressed I helped him clean up the majority of feathers before my stomach took over and demanded, quite loudly, to be fed.  Alex chuckled at my gastronomic symphony.

“Go get something to eat.  I’ll meet you in the kitchen in a few minutes.” I smiled gratefully at him.

“Thanks.  I’m really sorry about the pillows, but your sister started it.” I kissed his cheek and headed for the kitchen.

Katie had eggs and toast waiting for me on the table.  I smiled at her in thanks and eagerly dug in.

“My friend will be here in an hour.  I hope you remember every symptom you’ve had as she’s very interested in seeing you,” Katie said.

“I may be able to help her more than she realizes.  I have some information from my mother about a virus and I have a full DNA work up of her and my father.  I hope it will help her, but my concern is that she’ll want to take the information somewhere else.  I don’t want any of the documents I have to fall into the wrong hands, so I won’t let anything off the property including my own blood if she needs it.  At least not without you or one of the others to supervise,” I said sternly.

“I understand.  That is why she’s coming here with her mobile lab.  She won’t compromise you, or anyone else for that matter, she is far too professional for that,” she reassured me.

“Okay, I had better get all my stuff in one area so we can start going through it one piece at a time,” I said quietly, more to myself than to her.

“Alex and George put everything in the rec room downstairs.  There is more room for you to spread out and look at things,” she smiled.

“Thanks, that’s where I’ll be then,” I said as I finished eating.  I got up from the table and put my dishes in the sink.

“What about the feathers?” Katie asked.  I laughed as Alex appeared in the doorway with two garbage bags full of feathers.

“I see,” she grinned, laughing as Alex rolled his eyes.  I skipped down the stairs into the rec room so that I could tally up what I had brought home with me.  I spotted the two large black duffle bags and three black backpacks sitting beside the large leather couch.  I started with the backpacks.

The first backpack contained all the letters, keys and the small package I brought back from the safe deposit box.  I placed those things on the pool table so I could look at them later. The second backpack was my overnight bag and change of clothes.  I took my clothing out of the bag and put them in the laundry room, and took the bag and the rest of the contents upstairs and quickly put them away.  Returning downstairs, I started looking through the third backpack.  It contained the two books we had gotten in Arkansas.  I placed them on the pool table with the other things and I put the empty backpacks in the corner.  Then turned to the duffle bags and unzipped them both. I pulled out several things wrapped in plastic.  There was a label on each item telling me what it was.  There was a hand knit quilt, a few baby outfits and blankets, and two afghans all hand made by my grandmother.  A short note from my mother said that she had saved them for me to use when I had my own home.  I bit my lip as a wave of emotion swelled in my chest.  I felt tears welling up in my eyes as I looked at these precious gifts that my mother was able to save for me.  I heard Lizzy coming down the stairs even though her steps were so light on the stairs they hardly made a sound; Alex was with her.

“So what do you think?” Lizzy asked.

“I’m a bit overwhelmed, I think.  Apparently my grandmother made these things and my mother saved them for me to use in my own home one day.  These are a priceless piece of my heritage; of a family that I never knew.” I was in awe as I examined the knit items, as they were very intricately done.  Lizzy and Alex smiled as they looked at the items from the first duffle bag.

“You haven’t done anything like that in a while Lizzy, perhaps you could show Anna how,” Alex suggested.

“Perhaps some other time.  I’m not in the mood for needle work, and, I never really liked doing that kind of thing anyway.  I prefer instant gratification.” Lizzy narrowed her eyes at Alex as she helped me put these items back in the duffle bag.

“I’ll put these in our closet,” Alex said quietly and he and the bags were gone an instant later.  I looked after him in silent wonder.  It always amazed me how fast they could move when they wanted to.

“What is it Anna?” Lizzy questioned.

“It just amazes me how fast you all move when you want to, and I also liked the sound of him saying ‘our closet.’  I still think of it as his room not mine,” I admitted with a small smile.

“That’s silly of you.  The two of you are almost always together.  I don’t think he would fare well if you decided to move back in with James.  He’s gotten rather used to having you here and, to be honest, where ever you are I am sure he’d follow,” she stated.  My eyes widened at what she had said.

She smiled. “Anna, he’s in love with you.  He may not have said it, but it’s pretty obvious.  He’ll bend over backwards for you.  He doesn’t even do that for me,” she smirked, looking at me amused.

“I don’t do what for you?” Alex asked as he walked back into the room.

“Pine over me, do my bidding, and all that other stuff,” Lizzy admitted dramatically.

“That’s what Will’s for,” he stated matter of factly and kissed her cheek.  She pouted up at him as he ruffled her hair playfully.  It was nice to watch the two of them tease each other.

 

Katie and a petite woman with flaming red hair and crystal clear grey eyes entered the room. 

“Anna, this is Dr. Isolde McNeil,” Katie introduced the striking woman.

“Hello Dr. McNeil.” I held out my hand to her.  She took it gracefully and smiled.

“It be a pleasure ta meet ya,” Isolde said warmly with a strong Irish accent.

“So, I’ear tha’you ‘ave a wee problem. Would ya tell me of it please,” she asked happily.

“Um, sure.  Well, I started being able to do weird stuff when I moved here last September.  For example, I can see in the dark, I can visualize my energy flow and manipulate it, I have crazy dreams that, at times, come true, I get wicked cravings for steak, and my skin and eyes have been doing some strange things too,” I blurted almost at once.

“Well, I see tha’ we’av our work cut our fer us,” Isolde smiled.

I nodded.  I walked over to the pool table and picked up the large envelope that had been in the black book.  I opened it and pulled out a file folder with copies of my mother and father’s DNA profile and other blood work ups that had been done.  I motioned for Isolde to come over.

“My mother gave me this and explained that she and my father had some kind of virus.  Each of them had a different strain of this virus and when they mated you get someone like me.  She called the virus the Starcrisless or Legacy.  She said there were other names for it but she didn’t know them.  All I know is that when I turn eighteen my abilities will be fully awakened and that my father wants me.” I looked at her tiredly.

“May I take a blood sample? I wan’te check an’ make sure it’s all okay,” she looked at me with respect and great interest. 

“You can draw the blood but I don’t want the results to go anywhere.  If there is something in my blood that shouldn’t be, I don’t want anyone else to find it,” I said concerned.

“Ya don'av to worry ‘bout tha’. I’av my lab jus’ to the side o’the ‘ouse.  You kin watch me every move if ya like,” she offered sincerely.

I nodded, greatly relieved.  I gathered the file my mother gave me and followed Isolde outside to a large trailer.  Alex, Katie and Lizzy came with me because they knew I didn’t want to be alone.   

We entered the large trailer it and I was surprised and delighted to see that it looked like something out of a science fiction movie.  It was obvious I loved it, which made Isolde smile even more warmly at me.  She motioned me to sit in a chair.  I did so and handed her the folder with my parent’s information in it.  She placed it on a small counter to her left that held all sorts of tubes and medical supplies.  She gathered a rainbow of tubes, a tourniquet, and a needle with a vacutainer.   She took my left arm and tied the tourniquet around my upper arm.  It was tight and I could already feel my hand going numb because of it.  She cleaned the crease of my elbow and felt for a vein with her finger.

“Yer vein bounces, nicely, that’s what I’m look’n fer.  You’ll feel a wee poke now,” she told me.  It felt like a quick bee sting, and she began to put the tubes into the vacutainer one at a time collecting my blood.  She took nine vials, then gave me a glass of juice and a muffin.

“Ya better be eaten something, I don’want ya ta faint on me,” she chuckled.  I did as she instructed with a small smile.  She started to review the papers in the file after she set some of the tubes into a spinning machine.  She copied some of the papers and blacked out the names, instead just put a one or two on each page.  When she got to the picture of the virus she stopped, her mouth fell open and her eyes widened as she slowly turned and looked at me.  She seemed to go a bit pale, but it was hard to tell as she was relatively pale to begin with.

“What is it?” Alex demanded.

“If this information be right, your wee friend is gonna be very powerful indeed,” Isolde replied awed.

“Do you know what that is?” I asked her.

“I do, but without clarification tha’ya have it, I don’want to be tellen ya much,” she said.

“Are you hiding something from me?” I asked, a hint of anger in my voice.

“No child. I jus’ wanna be sure before I tell ye what I think ye are.  It’ll take me at least a week ta decipher all the information tha’ I have’ere.  I guess I’ll be a stay’n around fer awhile.  I hope ya don’mind Katie,” Isolde said looking at her friend.

“Not at all.  I’ll have your room ready in a few moments.  I know you’ll be working out here in the lab most of the time,” Katie smiled graciously and left the trailer.

“Will you be able to let us know what this virus is about at least?” Lizzy questioned.  Isolde smiled, understanding our curiosity.  She looked at us and spoke, “The virus is in your father’s blood, but what your mother’as is not a virus.  It be a gene sequence tha’ enhances the virus.  I’ll be tellen ya more once I be sure o’the results.  It’ll be maken more sense ta me then.” She turned to her computer and looked at what was on the screen.  I glanced over her shoulder and saw what looked like a normal blood test result.  I had seen this before in the hospital.

“Ya need to be eaten more protein child, yer iron levels be low,” Isolde commented.

“Now leave me be.  I be haven work ta do.” she dismissed us as she turned back to her computer.  We left the trailer slowly as she studied the numbers that popped up on the computer screen and transcribed them to a pad of paper.  She stopped just before I exited and looked at me with almost fear, I knew that she was worried, I could tell but the reason behind that fear in her eyes was what bothered me.

Chapter 40

Chapter 40: Trip

 

“Anna, it’s time to get up, you need to get ready.” Alex murmured into my ear around five thirty in the morning.

“Okay,” I replied sleepily.  I dragged myself into the shower to wake myself up and get ready for what I knew would be a whirlwind of a day.

“Alex, where are you?” I asked as I entered the empty room.  I had already gotten dressed and put on the wig and contacts.  I looked around; it was like he had vanished.  He usually waited for me and we would go to the kitchen together.  I frowned trying to get rid of the strange feeling in the pit of my stomach.

“Anna, you look great.  I wouldn’t have believed that was you.” Lizzy said smiling as she looked in the door.

“Thanks.  Where is Alex?   He usually waits for me,” I asked quietly.

“He took your bag and his to the car.  You need to hurry, they’re almost ready to leave,” she said as she gave me a quick hug.

I grabbed my slouch pouch with my wallet and passports and followed Lizzy to the kitchen where a bowl of cereal waited for me on the table.  I ate quickly and ran back to the washroom to brush my teeth again; looking in the mirror, I scrutinized my appearance.

“You’re Alia Stevens now.  That’s all you need to remember.  You were born September tenth 1991,” I said aloud to myself.  I nodded and made my way out to the car where the others waited for me.

 

We arrived at a small airport just outside Huntsville; George parked the car and we climbed out grabbing our bags before we headed to the hanger.  Once we were at the hanger George stored our bags at the back of the plane.  He then spoke quietly to a man wearing dirty jeans and a grease stained sweater.  The man went to the hanger doors and opened them, then he spoke to George for a moment.  George handed him our flight plan, the man nodded, and we got into the plane. 

It was small and cramped inside as it was really only meant for two people so the guys sat in the front while, Cassy and I sat in the back because we were smaller. Thankfully our flight wasn’t very long; we reached New Hampshire by nine in the morning.  George had arranged a rental car and it was waiting for us when we landed.

“What’s the address we need to go to?” George asked as he concentrated on driving.

“11 South Main Street.  We shouldn’t be long I hope,” I replied. “How long will it take us to get to Montana?”

“A few hours, maybe more depending on the wind speed.  Do you know what to do when you get to the bank?” George asked me seriously.

“Yes, I believe so.  Will you come in with me?”

“Do you honestly think I would let you go in there without backup?  Cassy will be in the driver’s seat and Alex will be look out while we’re inside.  I’m also hoping we’ll be in and out rather quickly.”

“Thanks George.” I said quietly.  He looked at me through the rear-view mirror, his concern evident.  He knew I was nervous and that I was trying to hide it.

 

We arrived at the bank twenty minutes after we landed.  George and I got out of the car and entered the bank.

“May I help you?” a pretty receptionist asked.

“Yes I need to open my mother’s safe deposit box please.” I replied.

“Do you have your key and identification?”

“Yes, I brought my mother’s death certificate too in case you need to see that as well.”

“Just one moment, I’ll get the manager,” she smiled.  I nodded and waited patiently.

A tall, pleasant looking man in his mid forties returned with the receptionist. 

“Hello, I’m John Mitchem.  I’ll take you to your safe deposit box.” He gestured at me to follow him.

“Do you have identification with you?” he asked as we walked.

“Yes, I do,” I said handing him the passport with my real name and my mother’s death certificate.  I had taken off the red wig and left it in the car, but I hadn’t removed the contacts.  He looked over my paperwork as we entered the vault, then nodded and handed my papers back to me.

“Do you have your key?” he asked with a friendly smile.

Nodding, I held up my key. The room we walked into was cool and three wall were lined with silver metal boxes.  He stopped in front of a row of boxes and placed his key into a slot, motioning me to do the same.

“On the count of three turn your key to the right,” John instructed.  I nodded my understanding.  He counted, we turned our keys on three and John slid the box out and placed it on one of the small tables in the room.

“I’ll be right here if you have any questions,” he stated retreating to give me privacy.

“Thank you.”  My throat tight, I opened the box slowly and looked inside.  All the bittersweet memories crashed around me and I felt tears surfacing again.  George put a hand on my shoulder, giving me a reassuring squeeze.  I picked up a small package wrapped in brown paper and a large envelope with my name on it.  I checked all sides of the box carefully to make sure that my mother hadn’t taped anything to the sides where I couldn’t see.  She used to do that when she was hiding things, but there was nothing.  I closed the box and took the items out of the room with me.  I looked at the manager sadly, “Thank you, I won’t be needing this box anymore.”

“Will you be closing her account today as well?”

“Yes, I don’t plan on being in the area for awhile,” I replied quietly as we walked.

“May I ask who the gentleman with you is?” he asked curiously.

“He’s my guardian’s son.  He’s like a brother to me and he knew I would have a hard time with this so he came to be my support.” I could feel the tears ready to spill over at any moment.  Mr. Mitchem led me to an office and motioned for George and I to have a seat.

“I remember when your mother first came here; I was a teller then.  She was very beautiful, not someone you would forget easily.” He smiled wistfully.  “You look a lot like her. I’m sorry to hear that she passed away.  May I ask what happened?”  I looked at the floor as I answered him.

“She was murdered a few years ago.  I wasn’t old enough to deal with some of the things that needed to be done, so I had to wait until I was ready.  I’m honestly not sure I’m ready to see what she’s left me, but I miss her and this is the only thing I might have left of her.” I couldn’t stop the tears from spilling over.  John handed me a tissue box, I quietly thanked him and took one and wiped my eyes.

“I’m truly sorry for your loss.  Did they ever find the killer?” he asked as he was typing on the computer.

“No.  I call every few months for an update, but they still haven’t found anything,” I choked.  He nodded sadly.

“I’m truly sorry for these unfortunate circumstances.  If you’ll excuse me for a moment I’ll be right back with your cheque.” He got up graciously and exited the office.

“Anna, you didn’t have to tell him the truth you know,” George said quietly.

“I know, but I don’t care who knows any more.  She was murdered, and I’m not going to hide that information anymore.” I said determinedly.  He nodded in understanding.

Mr. Mitchem returned a few minutes later and handed me the cheque.  I took it from him and folded it without bothering to look before placing it in my pocket.  I gracefully rose from my seat, shook his hand and turned to leave the office.

“Take care of yourself miss.” he said.

“Thank you.  You have a good day too, Mr. Mitchem,” I replied quietly.  George put his arm around my shoulders and looked at me with concern as we walked out of Mr. Mitchem’s office.

“Are you okay kiddo?  Do you want to sit for a minute? There’s no hurry.” I looked into his worried eyes and smiled slightly.

“I’ll be okay.  Can you just take me home? I don’t think I can handle going anywhere else today,” I admitted as we left the bank.

“Of course,” George smiled reassuringly.  We walked slowly to the car and he opened the front passenger door for me so that I could get in.  I hadn’t even seen Cassy move to the back seat, George must have given her a signal because she and Alex were sitting in the back.

“He’s still watching us,” George said quietly.  I put my hands to my face and leaned on George’s shoulder, something that I had never done before, but it felt safe, and like the right thing to do at this time.  George wrapped his arm protectively around me as he started the care and backed slowly out of the parking spot and left the parking lot. 

As soon as we were safely down the street I sat up and ran my hands over the packages on my lap.

“You’re very good at subterfuge, you know.” George smiled proudly at me.  “You don’t have to open those now Anna, it can wait.  We’ll be back at the airport and on our way in about half an hour.” 

I nodded, not saying a word.  Alex reached around from the back seat giving me a kind of hug.  I sighed in gratitude and placed a hand on his strong forearm.  

 

Once we reached the airport and our plane, I stored the large envelope and package in my backpack with the letters from my mother.  We were in the air and headed for Montana within an hour.  I sat staring out the window, thinking about everything; I didn’t want to talk.  Cassy held my hand comfortingly; I liked being with her because she always let me figure things out before interrupting my thoughts.

“Are you okay Anna?” she asked quietly.

“Yes. I didn’t think this would be so hard.  I’m going to be pretty tired when all this is done.” I looked at her sadly.

She nodded in understanding and Alex turned to watch me for a few minutes, the love and concern evident in his eyes.

“We’ll arrive in about half an hour and we should easily make it to the bank before it closes.  Are you sure you’re up for this?” Alex asked watching my face.

“Yes, let’s just get it done.  I don’t think I’ll be able to do much else after this though, and I’d like to see what’s in these packages.” I looked into his concerned eyes and gave him a floppy smile.  He knew I was doing my best and I knew they were all there to support me.  He nodded and turned to the front of the plane again.

We landed just outside Miles City, Montana around two in the afternoon.  I hadn’t eaten much and my stomach started to protest, but we didn’t have time to stop yet.  George changed his jacket and put on a hat and sunglasses.  It had been cloudy in New Hampshire, but it was sunny here so he needed to cover up so that he wasn’t a distraction.  Another car was waiting for us here. It had dark tinted windows and just looked sleek and powerful.  I saw the insignia on the front of the car as we walked towards it and realized it was a Mercedes Benz. I whistled softly.  Alex and George shared a glance and chuckled at my reaction to the car.

“We’ll get something to eat after we’re finished at the bank.  I’ve booked us a room at the Holiday Inn,” George informed us.

“We’re heading to 1115 Main Street to the First Interstate Bank,” I said looking out the window at the scenery whizzing by.  I didn’t feel like talking anymore.  I was on my last mission to find what little was left of my mother.  The packages and letters she left for me were all that I had left of the amazing person I missed so much.

The second bank was pretty much the same as the first except this time I found three letters addressed to me, one to James, and a small black book.  I closed the account my mother had there and placed another cashier’s check in my pocket without looking at it first.  I didn’t want to know how much money it was for, that was not at all important to me when I was dealing with such a profound sense of loss. 

We went to the Holiday Inn and checked into our rooms.  I opened the sliding door so that I could let the evening breeze cool the room down.  I pulled out all of the things that I collected from the two banks and laid it out on the bed around me.  I looked at the envelopes the first one said “Anastasia open immediately,” the second read “Anastasia open on your wedding day,” and the third said “Anastasia open when your first child is born.”  My heart ached and I had tears in my eyes.  She had thought of everything.  I couldn’t believe it, I would get to read her advice at least two more times after I read this letter. 

Smiling sadly, I slowly opened the envelope and took out the sheet of paper inside.  I inhaled deeply, it even smelled like her!  I would never forget her scent of jasmine and roses.  It was my favourite smell, floral, with a soft, rich, sensual aroma.  I sighed quietly and smiled to myself.  I always pictured her with her hair down blowing in the wind, her pale blue eyes sparkling with excitement as we walked together to our standing lunch date, every Wednesday afternoon.  I looked at her hand writing, recognizing it as the same neat scrawl that I missed so much.  As I read her letter I heard her voice in my head once again.  I missed that voice so much, so I re-read her letter, this time more slowly:

 

Anastasia

Sweetheart I know you’re scared traveling all over the place collecting

the items that I’ve left for you.  I guess I need to explain a few things.  First, as you know, you

 are the Rising Star.  In the black book you will find a copy of my DNA profile as

 well as your father’s.  We both have a dormant version of a particular virus or         

 something like that.  I didn’t have time for proper scientific explanations when I received

this.  What I’ve learned is that my dormant strain of the virus wakens when it comes

into contact with the strain your father has.  Beyond that I can tell you very little

 about the virus.  It has many names, I know it as the Starcrisless virus, or

 the Legacy virus, I don’t know the other names, perhaps James

can look into it.   Second, there is a list of all my accounts and account numbers

in the black book.  You were only aware of a few.  I have several accounts all over the world

as I was given a very large settlement when my marriage was annulled. I split the

money up with James’ help and we were living off the interest.  You have become a very

wealthy young lady, Anna.  Third, the package wrapped in brown mailing paper contains

some heirlooms that I wanted you to have.  Some of the items belonged to my

mother and the others I collected over the years.  I hope you enjoy them. Forth, the

large envelope has the only family pictures that I managed to save from my family

and there is one of your father’s family too.  I wrote all the names on the back

so that if you run across them you would be able to recognize them.  Finally,

when you go to the house there are some bags for you with other things I thought

that you might like.  There is also a clue for you there in the back of our favourite

book.  I know you’ll figure things out, you were always good at puzzles.  You

have a choice Anastasia, so choose wisely. Live life, be happy, stay strong,

find love, cherish those you care for and never give up hope.                                                                                  

My sweet beautiful girl

you are my heart

you are my life

I love you,

Mom

 

I didn’t realize that I was crying until Alex wiped the tears from my cheeks with a gentle brush of his fingers as I looked up into his beautifully vibrant emerald green eyes.  He smiled at me and softly stroked my cheek with the back of his hand.

“You okay?” he asked.

“Yes, I just miss her.” I replied solemnly.

“I’m here if you need me Anna, I’ll always be here for you,” Alex whispered.  I smiled and brushed the back of my hand across his cheek.

“I know.” I felt so much older in that moment than I really was. 

We ate a simple dinner at the diner across from the hotel and went to bed early.  George wanted to be in the air first thing in the morning. 

 

We arrived fifteen minutes outside Pine Bluff Arkansas around eight the next morning.  There was another black Mercedes Benz with tinted windows waiting for us there.  We drove it to 605 Barrow Drive, a small house with a white picket fence, just like in all the stories.  I walked up to the front door with Alex, Cassy, and George with me every step of the way.  Grateful for their support, I slowly unlocked the door and opened it.  I took a deep breath and walked into the small foyer. 

 

The house was pretty bare.  There was a utilitarian couch and TV in the front room, both coated with about an inch of dust.  The kitchen was small and just as dust covered; it looked as if no one had been inside the house in years.  I went upstairs to the bedroom and looked in the closet.  I found two black duffle bags in the back of the small closet exactly where my mother always put things for me to find.  She was always consistent, I had to give her that.  I smiled wistfully as I grabbed the bags and brought them down the stairs. George took them from me and carried them to the car.

“I just want to check the entire house over once and then we can go.  Is that okay?” I asked George from the doorway.

“Do whatever you need to do.  Your mother went to a lot of trouble to get you here. Check everything,” George replied.

“Alex, Cassy would you two check and see if there is a basement?  I want to see if there is anything else hidden away, and your senses are far better than mine,” I asked politely.  They nodded and went to search the main floor while I went back upstairs and searched each room.  There were only three rooms and all were empty, except one which had a shelf with two books on it.  I picked up the first book and read the title.  I was shocked that it was an original first edition copy of Sleeping Beauty.  My mom used to read this to me every day; I loved this story.  I looked at the other book and it was another favourite, Rush Cape.  It was also a first edition - these were priceless memories from my past.  I checked the rest of the room and the bathroom, but everything else was clear.  I made my way back downstairs and met Alex, Cassy and George at the base of the stairs.  I was holding the books up for them to see.

“Look what I found!  They’re my favourite stories, I thought we had lost them in one of our many moves.  Mom would read them to me all the time.” I smiled wistfully in remembrance. The next thing I knew, Alex was saying my name as Cassie looked on, a puzzled look on her face.

“What?  Oh sorry, did you say something?” I questioned, feeling slightly dazed.

“You completely zoned out there for a minute,” Alex said, touching my face reassuringly. “Anyway, we checked the rest of the house and didn’t find anything.  If you are ready, we should get going.  We should be able to make it home this afternoon and that way you can go through everything in a safe quiet place.” 

“Anna, we’ll go through everything together.” Cassy promised.  “We’ll all help you sort through everything,” Cassy was so sincere and gentle as she took my hand and pulled me towards the front door to leave.  I slipped, but caught myself at the last second, and when I looked up I caught a glimpse of my reflection in the glass of the door. It stopped me in my tracks; my skin was so ghostly pale and my eyes swirled almost like Alex and Cassy’s did.  My eyes widened and I started to skake.

“What’s wrong with me? Why do I look like this?” Fear rippled through my voice.

“I don’t know Anna, but we have to get you home, NOW.” George said urgently.  “Alex, carry her to the car we have to get in the air as soon as possible.  She’s changing faster than we anticipated and we need to get her to a safe place so we can figure out what’s going on with her.” Alex easily swung me into his arms and ran to the car, gently placing me in the back seat and strapping me in.  The entire time he didn’t take his eyes off me and slid in beside me, gathering me in his arms.  When we arrived at the airport Alex unbuckled my seat belt and carried me to the plane.  Once we were aboard he handed me a bottle of water.  I gratefully took a sip but started retching.  The water actually it felt strange in my mouth, and I knew it wasn’t what I wanted.  I wanted was steak, and the craving was almost overwhelming.

“I need steak, I want steak,” I whimpered weakly.

“Anna you couldn’t even handle a sip of water,” Cassy said worriedly.

“But I need steak…..I must be low in iron.  That has to be it.” I whispered.

“George, can you hypnotize her until we get home to help her get through the flight?” Cassy asked, looking at me with concern.

“Alex should do it.  She trusts him and he is very good at keeping her calm.” George replied.  Alex nodded.  He gathered me into his arms, so I was gazing up at him as he began to speak.

“Anna, rest now.  Close your eyes and rest.” Alex’s voice was all soothing bells and melody.  I stared at him wide eyed, my attention riveted on him. I had never heard him speak like this before, it was the most amazing sound I had ever heard and I could feel myself relaxing.  He leaned towards me and breathed slowly into my face, his breath warm, sweet, and so soothing. My eyes felt heavy and I felt as though I would fall asleep at any moment.

“Alex, what’s going on?  Why am I so tired?” I blinked trying to shake off my lethargy.

“You are safe, Anna.  I won’t let anything happen to you.  Now rest and I’ll wake you when we’re home, I promise.” His voice rang like bells again and my eyes closed as he pulled me closer and I sank into oblivion.  It was peaceful, but I still managed to hear a strange conversation while I was in this dream-like state.

“Is she asleep?” I heard Cassy asked.

“I think so.  George let’s get out of here, she doesn’t look so good,” Alex said urgently.

“I’m pretty worried about her myself.  I’ve never seen anything like it, she went so pale and her eyes; did you see her irises?  They almost went liquid!  That’s not something a human can do.  What is she?” George’s voice was soft and questioningly, full of worry.

“I wish I knew,” Alex whispered “I’m really worried about her.  I don’t know what I’d do if anything were to happen to her.” I could hear the fear in his voice.

“We all know you love her, Alex.  The real question is what would you do to keep her? Would you claim her in order to keep her?  To keep her safe from her father and his family? Would you actually be willing to do the one thing you promised you wouldn’t do?” George whispered.

“I don’t know George, I want to but I could never betray her like that.” Alex’s voice was sad and far away.

“You’ll have to make a choice Alex, and likely sooner than you want to,” Cassy whispered.

“I know,” His voice was so uncertain.  I wanted to reach out to them, tell them not to worry but it was just a dream, a strange far away dream.  At least I think it was.  I didn’t hear any more far away voices as I drifted deeper into a dreamless sleep.