Emma’s Journey

An Odyssey

From Darkness to Light

 

Erin O’Rielly

 

© By E. O’Rielly November 2003

eorielly@yahoo.com

 

Disclaimers
	Language: Expletives are used.
	Violence: There are harrowing experiences and depictions that deal with rape and murder.
	Hurt/Comfort: There is definitely some hurt/emotional discomfort with scenes of angst and heartache to be dealt with by the characters.
	Acknowledgment:  Thank you to JM Dragon for encouraging me to complete this story.

 

Introduction

Emma Sanders, at forty-four, could never remember having a friend. As a young child, in her mother’s loving arms, she remembered being rushed out of their burning house. The yellow, red orange and blue flames of the fire shot out of the roof and windows as shrieks of those still inside were heard. Her mother was sobbing as she held her close until she heard of the pleas of her brother, Bobby… Mommy, Mommy, help me. Then she was put down next to a tall oak tree and told to ‘stay put’ as her mother dashed back towards the door only to be stopped by a blast that sent her flying against the rock wall fence.

 

Sirens blared in the night as engines and ambulances raced their way to the inferno on Maple Street. Firemen were jumping out of their trucks and running towards hydrants with fire hoses before a strong stream of water was directed at the Sanders’ home. The men surrounded the burning building desperately trying to save those left inside by putting the fire out. As she sat helpless and alone in the warm night air of summer, Emma tried, as best she could with her five-year-old mind, to comprehend the events happening around her. People in white clothing were crouched on the ground by her mother’s side before gently lifting her onto the waiting stretcher. She watched the white vehicle with a red cross pull away with her mother and began to cry, “Mommy, Mommy, come back.”

 

A policeman took notice of the crying child under the oak tree and came over to her. “Were you in that house?” He asked as she picked her up in his strong arms.

 

“Yes.” She sobbed as she watched the only home she had ever known, collapse into a pile of fiery rubble.

 

The next days were all a blur as she was shuffled from neighbor to neighbor as they all tried to comfort the inconsolable child. She sat alone in the front pew of the church, the sole representative of her family with five dark caskets lining the alter area. Although she was told that her father, Robert, two brothers Bobby, Jimmy, and grandparents Robert Sr. and Claire were resting inside, she did not believe them. Even as the coffins were lowered into the ground she looked around expecting them to all come and take her away from the horrible scene. Instead she stood there quietly sobbing, “Mommy, Mommy.”

 

That one, horrible night shaped her life forever...

 

* * * * *

1

 

Edward Sanders’, Emma’s great great grandfather longed to leave the city and take his family to where they would be free of the filth, smoke and unruly crowds that roamed the city streets freely. He feared for his family’s safety as he watched crime increase to the point where the criminals were running the city.  In 1888 he uprooted his wife Rebecca, three sons, Edward Junior, Richard and Robert, and two daughters Emily and Virginia and moved them thirty miles west to an unsettled peaceful valley. There he laid claim to the entire valley and cleared enough land to built a large house for them to live and a barn for livestock. Their property not only included the valley and small river running through it, but the surrounding mountains where mixed hardwoods grew in abundance. The country cried out for lumber to build houses as more and more people ventured out of the cities. After adding a lumber mill to their homestead, it wasn’t long before he and his sons had a thriving timber company. Sanders and Sons became the best-known source of lumber in the state.

 

The family prospered until 1909 when their numbers were reduced to just three as typhoid ravaged the population all around them. Edward and his two sons, Richard and Robert were all that remained. Edward fell into a deep depression letting the family business falter and almost fall, until the two brothers stepped in and took over although Edward retained control. When the government decided in the early 1920’s, to dam up the river and create a lake it was like a windfall for the family; not only did they make a killing selling the land, but also retained the rights to all the lake front property.

 

Edward’s depression continued off and on for the next twenty-five years and effected how he managed the mill and his money. He held and iron fist on the business and as the years went by and his depression spiraled downward it became evident he had lost all concept of money management or how to successfully run a business. His son’s input and advice was ignored as he turned to unscrupulous advisors, who invested vast amounts of his money in the stock market only to lose it all with the great stock market crash of the thirties. The family was left nearly penniless, land poor and without a father. Edward took the easy road out, and committed suicide like many others of the time did.

 

Robert’s brother, Richard never married preferring to focus all his energies on the business. After the death of their father, Richard salvaged what he could and got the lumber mill up and running again. Once again the family fortunes took an upward turn although it was necessary from time to time to sell off parcels of land. These sales decreased the amount of trees available making the conservation of trees necessary. Not able to meet the ever-increasing demand for lumber the business soon took a nosedive causing it to close forever in 1946. In September of 1948 Richard developed pneumonia; never completely recovering, the disease reoccurred often over the next year until he finally succumbed to its ravages. Robert was the only surviving member of the family and it became his duty, along with his son, Robert Jr., to take over the business.

 

It wasn’t until the early fifties when Robert, Emma’s father, took over the management of the family’s properties that it began to prosper once again. The mountains of pine and hardwoods raised up to surround the lake providing a shield from the weather to the lake below. In many places farmers had cleared the land and began raising milking cows and planting corn and soybeans. Small towns began to spring up around the lake offering the weekend visitors places to eat and spend the night.

 

The lake’s water was clear and clean, chocked full of many species of fish and lush grasses lining the shore. A place in the mountains, known only to the residents, was a spring with the purest and best tasting water. The locals used this water and soon someone began bottling it and selling it to the ‘city folks’. As far as Robert was concerned, it was heaven on earth with everything available in one place. He built a home for his family on the southern most point of the lake.

 

It was then that he realized he could capitalize on the numerous people from nearby cities who came to the lake on weekends for fishing, camping and boating. In addition, the surrounding mountains were ideal for skiing, making the area perfect for year round relaxation and sports. He turned the family’s fortunes around as he began building vacation homes on the lake. On the last remaining mountain that the family owned, he cleared an area for ski runs, lifts and a château. A store was built nearby to sell ski equipment and lift passes. Once it was established, he sold everything for a hefty profit; preferring to concentrate on the management of the homes around the lake.  He envisioned a place where his family could thrive and spend generations running and improving the business. The fire in 1964 brought the end to his dreams leaving his crippled wife and small daughter all his dreams and properties.

 

* * * * *

 

2

 

The trauma of the fire, the life altering injuries to her mother and deaths she witnessed resulted in Emma growing pensive, often uncooperative and vengeful. In her short five years she had endured a lifetime of heartache and sorrow. With her mother in the hospital and no other relatives, she was made a ward of the state and placed in a foster home. She didn’t understand why she couldn’t go and be with her mother and would often throw fits and tantrums hoping she would come and take her away. The only thing they accomplished was to have her removed from one home and put in another time and time again. No one seemed to be able to provide what the troubled child needed to move on with her life.

 

It was in the third foster home that she woke up in a cold sweat crying out for her father. Her foster mother, Martha Gooding, came rushing into the room; angry that this was the fifth night in a row the child woke her up. “What’s the matter now?” She asked harshly grabbing the child roughly out of her bed. “I’m sick and tired of this! Do you hear me? No more or you’re out of here.”

 

The woman, tired from lack of sleep, began shaking the small girl, which resulted in Emma screaming louder, her sobs more insistent as she began kicking the woman. The tighter she was held, the louder her voice became and the more vicious the attack on the woman. Her teeth found the woman’s shoulder and she bit down hard not letting go until the woman’s husband slapped Emma.

 

There was no consoling the child, as she retreated to a corner of the room where she sat and screamed for her mother. Every time Martha or her husband Phil approached the child she would let out a piercing shriek. Finally, Phil throw a blanket over Emma, picked the screaming and kicking child up then forced her to stay down on her bed as Martha strapped her down. Soon social services arrived with the police who took a restrained Emma to the hospital. Seeing the white uniforms of the ambulance workers through Emma into a panic as she recalled them hovering over her mother before they took her away. Once the out of control child arrived at the hospital she was sedated and once again strapped down on a bed.

 

No matter how much sedation was used, Emma never arrived at the state of quiet. She fought the medications just as much as she fought the white clothed people around her. Doctors, nurses and psychiatrists tried to calm Emma without success. She continued to scream and was soon confined to a padded, walled room with no bed only a mattress. Sedation became a way of life for the small child who was unable to communicate her desperate need to see her mother. It wasn’t until a month later when her mother came to see her that she finally settled down and began cooperating with the staff trying to help her.

 

* * * * *

3

 

Esther Sanders lay in her hospital room in a state of shock. Her entire family, except for Emma, was gone. She was incased in plaster from head to toe in an effort to heal her spine from the powerful blow it took in the blast. She could not feed herself; see to personal cleanliness or the need for elimination. Reports about her daughter’s unruly behavior and hospital confinement upset her causing her to insist on seeing the child.

 

She pressed the doctors to bring her daughter to her only to bow to their wishes that the child stay away. Finally the cast was removed and she could be transported to the ward where her daughter was confined. What she saw horrified her...

 

 Emma sat huddled in a corner of a room with padded walls her hair was matted and dirty. The clothes she was wearing were tattered and filthy; covered with food and what Esther was sure was feces. The nurse wheeled, Esther closer to her daughter so she could reach out to her. Slowly, her fingers caressed her daughter’s cheek as tears cascaded down her own. She whispered her name softly, “Emma, Mommy is here.”

 

In spite of the drugged state she was in, Emma recognized the touch and the voice and looked up with wide eyes to the face she longed to see. “Mommy.” She said tentatively. “I want to go home.” She sobbed before standing and trying to sit in her mother’s lap.

 

The nurse barred Emma’s advance on her mother. “No you can’t do that, it will hurt your mother.” Taking the youngsters hand she led Emma to the side of the wheelchair. “Stand her and you can touch her, but you can’t sit in her lap.”

 

“Why? I want my mommy.” The small child pleaded.

 

Esther took her daughters hand in hers. “Sweetheart, Mommy loves you. Will you do something for Mommy?”

 

Hazel eyes looked up lovingly at her mother. “Yes,”

 

“Let the nice nurses give you a bath and clean clothes. My little girl is so pretty so needs to look her best.” She said as she ran her fingers soothingly along Emma’s face. “Will you do that for me?”

 

“Yes.” Finally Emma knew she wasn’t alone, her mother was there and loved her.

 

Despite of endless surgeries and spending, what seemed like forever, in rehabilitation, Esther was to spend the rest of her life in a wheelchair. When the doctors finally gave her the bad news, Esther was not surprised, in fact she had known from the beginning. She felt herself being hurled through the air, her back slamming against the wall and then the lack of sensation in her legs and knew she would never walk again.

 

When Esther was released from rehabilitation, she moved her few belongings out to their home on the lake. The private nurse she hired to help wheeled her around the house. Holding her hand up she asked the woman, Linda Buster, to leave her alone. Sitting alone in the once happy and bustling house, tears began to run down her cheeks. Breathing deeply she could smell the scent of her husband’s pipe tobacco. Looking over to the pegs by the door leading to the porch she saw all the jackets that belonged to her family. Hearing a rustling in the kitchen she turned around expecting to see her mother-in-law standing there, instead she saw her caretaker. It was then that she vowed to never let anyone near enough to cause her the heartache she was feeling. She would close her heart to everyone…even her daughter. “Never again.” She whispered.

 

Once she had the home adapted for her wheelchair and she adjusted to the surroundings, she sent for her daughter to join her. Emma arrived at the home in an ambulance clean and non-drugged. At first the child kept to herself seemingly keeping distance between herself and her mother. For Esther, that was fine as she feared her reactions if she let the child too near.

 

“Emma, it is up to you to help Mommy so we can let Miss Buster go back to the hospital.”

 

“Mommy, I’m just a little girl, can’t I go to school like other little girls?”

 

“No!” Esther shouted. “There will be no school for you! You must take care of me just as I took care of you in the fire. Now take the clothes and put them away, like I told you too.”

 

Hanging her head the young child picked up the basket, which was almost as big as she was, and carried it to the bedrooms. Once alone, anger grew in Emma as she took a crayon and began marking all the clean clothes. With each job she was forced to do the more damage the six year old would do to her surroundings and herself as she sobbed, “It’s not my fault, it’s not my fault.”

 

It soon became clear that her daughter she was incorrigible and completely uncontrollable…for Esther this was unacceptable. Calling Emma’s former doctors she asked that her daughter be once again confined. “She’s just not fitting in at all.” Esther complained. “She is constantly destroying things and now she has taken to hurting herself. I think she needs to be returned to the hospital.”

 

The doctor had no recourse but to agree. He was concerned about the self-mutilation and felt it needed to be understood and cured.

 

Once it became evident to Esther that she could not rely on her daughter to care for her, she became determined to become self sufficient so she would no longer need to rely on others. In a year’s time she felt confident enough to let Linda go and live a solitary life. Every time the doctor’s declared they were satisfied with Emma’s progress, Esther would have her come home. Occasionally, Emma would not irritate her mother too much and she would stay home for as long as twelve months. But, in time, she would do or say something that her mother objected to causing tensions to raise. No sooner had that happened, Emma would find herself back in the confinement of an institution for the mentally ill.

 

With the passing of time Esther became more and more controlling and bitter with the turn her life had taken. Her daughter was the only thread left to the life she lost in that fire years earlier. Emma was whole and seemingly unscathed by the events and for that she would pay; Esther would see to that. Her daughter would do as she said and bend to her will or she would find herself back in the mental ward. Finally Emma submitted to her demands and was allowed to remain in the home. Her mother would teach her all she needed to know so school was never and option for Emma.

 

As it was for most women in the early sixties, Esther was a housewife who tended to the needs of her husband and family. She knew nothing of the business world or her husband’s work, but she learned and took on the management and development of the properties with a savage vengeance creating many enemies in her wake. She became a tenacious woman wanting to control everyone and everything. If a person did not own their property the chances were that the Sanders Corporation held the properties papers. No one dared incur the wrath of the woman in the wheelchair for fear of being thrown out in the cold.

 

* * * * *

4

 

Emma’s life became dedicated to the care of her mother. To survive it was important for Emma to do everything her mother asked without comment. She spent tireless hours cleaning, cooking and tending to her mother’s personal needs.

 

“One can never be clean enough, Emma.” Her mother would tell her over and over again when Emma failed to meet Esther’s high standards. “You are a worthless child, can’t you do anything right!” She would scream, as she loomed menacing in her wheelchair causing Emma to cower or run and hide.

 

She also was expected to take her mother to the grocery store each Thursday and to church every Sunday, come rain or shine. They did not own a automobile therefore, Emma was expected to push her mother down the rocky driveway and up the dirt road hill into the small community without complaint. The only consideration was Esther’s needs; Emma never was a consideration.

 

Due to the injury from the fire, Esther’s lungs became damaged resulting in pneumonia each winter. Emma’s winter job was to be a nurse to her mother providing medications, oxygen and to be available twenty-four hours a day. With each attack, Esther’s lungs grew weaker until they finally failed.

 

A frantic call to 911 brought a medic unit to their home. Emma stood by watching as the team hooked her mother up to monitors and oxygen before placing her on a stretcher then in the ambulance. The horrors of thirty-six years earlier came rushing back and she once again felt helpless and alone. The next time she saw her mother was in the church vestibule where she laid in her coffin.

 

* * * * *

5

 

It was now three months after her mother’s death, and Emma found herself alone to face the formidable task of running the family business. Several of the vacation retreats had been sold over the years to help pay for medical bills, but they still held all of the land around their home. They also owned numerous vacation homes around the lake and other homes in several communities. Fortunately for Emma, her mother hired a management company during the last year of her life making her more of a figurehead than manager. In that last year, Esther would have Emma take a ride in her small fishing boat each month to check up on their properties and to insure the management people were doing what she was paying for. “Never trust anyone.” She would tell Emma. “They’re all out to take advantage of you and will stab you in the back if you’re not on your toes.”

 

Before his death, Emma’s father deeded the entire southern end of the lake bordering their lake house, as a wildlife refuge to the state with the only stipulation it would not be developed. The area was flourishing with thousands of varieties of plants and numerous species of trees. The water along the refuge contained deadwood, reeds, cattails, water lilies and the occasional live tree standing tall in the shallow brackish water. Roads wound through the area allowing the fisherman or the wildlife observer easy access to the refuge. Strict rules were established regarding littering and disturbing the natural settings of plants and animals. It was a popular place for visitors from all over the state and country to visit regularly.

 

Over the years, Emma learned to find solitude from her demanding mother by spending many hours conversing with nature. The lake, the refuge and her gardens became her sanctuary when she wanted to scream out at her mother. The white fiberglass dock was gently swaying, the flotation devices rocked in the water as Emma walked towards the railing at the dock’s end. She watched, as she did every evening, as the pinks, purples, reds and oranges of the sky heralded the end of the day with the setting of the sun. Closing her eyes, she took in a deep breath of the richly perfumed late spring air finding solace and peace. A disturbance in the water brought her out of her reverie. Turning, she saw something dark and ominous rising out of the cold water.

 

A shadowy figure with air tanks, a face mask and wetsuit emerged from the muddy depths and preceded up the boat ramp as flippers slapped against the concrete. Stopping, the water creature slipped the hat of the wet suit off revealing shoulder length light brown hair.

 

It’s a woman, Emma thought as vibrant blue eyes fixed on her. She clutched the front of her gray flower print dress feeling the eyes boring through her as if she were seeing her naked. A sense of danger and uneasiness surged through her body as she began to edge towards the grass at the end of the dock.

 

“Bet you thought I was a monster from the deep!” The blue-eyed woman exclaimed with a dazzling smile. The voice resonated happiness as the woman laughed with great joy.

 

Emma frowned as she tired to conceal her nervousness at being caught out in the open with a stranger nearby. “Not exactly. You’re trespassing on my property.”

 

The interloper only chuckled more at the comment. “Of course I am, I’m lost.” A devilish glint brightened the blue eyes. “Oh please, Fair Lady, save me.” She said mockingly as she gestured with a flourish of her hand in the air before bowing.

 

Emma didn’t know what to make of this woman who took off her flippers then began hopping as she walked along the rock strewn concrete. “I assure you, Miss, I am not a fair lady, nor am I in a position to save you. This is private property and you are trespassing.” Her voice had no humor for the woman’s words or actions.

 

The woman stopped and looked up at Emma. “You need to lighten up.” She said before a disarming smile came back to her face. “There are three ways you can think of me…a wacko, a vacationer or an avid diver. Take your pick…maybe I’m all three.” She said.

 

Emma began walking rapidly down the dock and back to the safety of her house taking care not to slip on the algae that accumulated on the fiberglass. “That is not a great challenge, Miss, you are no doubt a wacko. Now, please, leave my property.”

 

Emma was on the grass when she heard a loud boisterous laugh from the woman who was now so very close to her. “Right in one. If you would be so kind as to tell me where Jones’ Landing is, I’ll be on my way.”

 

Emma stopped her retreat, turned looking squarely at the intruder and pointed to the north. “About a mile that way.” She then turned back towards her house and walked with focused speed back to the safety of her home. Going up the three steps she opened the screen door to the porch, went in, then lifted the hook to lock the screen door. Looking back at the woman, she saw her walking gingerly across the rocks until she sat on the dock. Emma was horrified…no one but me is allowed on the dock! Should I call out to get her off the dock? No, then she would know I’m watching her. What to do, what shall I do? Fear gripped her heart as she continued to watch. Then she noticed the woman was only putting on her flippers before going back into the water.

 

Emma stood in the shadows on the porch watching the intruder until she was certain the trespasser had disappeared into the water’s depths. It was only then that she left the porch for the safety of her home, locking the door behind her. Once she was certain her every door and window was secure she took the shotgun out of the closet; her mother’s words were echoing in her terrified mind. Trust no one, Emma…never let anyone near…ever. It would be a long night; she would wait for the woman to come back and try to break into her home. The piercing blue eyes still vivid in her mind, haunting and terrifying her.

 

* * * * *

6

 

Jones’ Landing was one of the first properties that Emma’s father developed as a lure for weekend visitors. Fifteen wooden cabins of various sizes were built along the lake and into a wooded area. Robert Sanders made sure they had all the conveniences of home so tourists could eat, sleep and relax in the cabins. A bait house was built next to the two rows of docks offering not only bait and fishing supplies, but boat rentals as well. A gas pump was also located there for other boaters on the lake to fill up their tanks. A road leading to a public boat ramp with adequate parking finished off the area making it the perfect resting place for vacationers.  Once the area began to boom as a tourist retreat and the family business became more demanding, Robert reluctantly sold the property.

 

* * * * *

 

Cay O’Neill emerged from the water in a small cove about a hundred yards down the shoreline from Emma’s dock and flung her air tanks over the side of a small dingy. She then nimbly lifted herself into the vessel and removed her flippers before starting the small electric motor. So that is what she looks like, Cay thought to herself, not bad…not bad at all, I’m sure I can pull this off…my future depends on it. Her mind was racing with all the possibilities as she steered the small craft into the dock at Jones’ Landing. She had rented a large cabin there, which had a full view of the comings and goings of all water traffic. It was the ideal location for her base of operations.

 

Stripping out of her wetsuit, she stood in the middle of her cabin naked, as she reached for the notebook and pen on the nearby table. Sitting down in a comfortable chair she began recreating the dialogue with Emma Sanders along with sketching the surroundings and the woman herself. Reading the notes back to herself she recalled the look of apprehension in the woman’s hazel eyes. Cay wasn’t sure if she was annoyed or frightened. I’ll have to find that out now, won’t I?

 

Sometime later, Cay showered and dressed in loose fitting dark blue drawstring pants and a white tee shirt. Her stomach was growling and she looked forward to the home cooking the store offered. As she made her way up a slight hill, she thought about the woman she had encountered earlier and how she would go about getting to know her. There was always a way to gain someone’s confidence some just needed more patience than others. Emma Sanders, she knew, would be one of those. Yes, she will need the kid glove treatment.

 

Every time she entered the Beard’s store, Cay would remembered O’Malley’s Grocery, the old ‘mom and pop’ store that sat on the corner down from her home when she was growing up. The floors were all made of wide wooden planks worn from years of all types of feet moving across them. The six-foot shelves for the grocery items were made of sturdy oak and stood in rows of three per row. The only lighting that seemed to be bright was around the check out area, archaic by modern standards, consisting of an old crank handle cash register and a long wooden counter. The lunch counter looked like an old-fashioned soda fountain counter from an old drug store. Cay could imagine a soda jerk standing behind the counter mixing up cherry cokes and malteds. Instead she would see Zachariah Beard with his handlebar moustache, long gray-white hair pulled back in a ponytail, craggy, weathered face adorned with horn-rimmed glasses and stained apron wrapped around his waist. He would stand behind the counter flipping eggs, sausage or whatever the special of the day was.

 

Cay greeted the store’s owners Zachariah and Hannah Beard. “Good evening.” She said with a broad smile.

 

“Well hello there, Cay, we didn’t think we’d see you tonight.” Hannah smiled as she rang up a customer.

 

Hannah Beard looked in her sixties with graying hair pulled back in a tight bun. Her face was remarkably smooth due, Hannah said, from never letting the sun touch her face. Cay often wondered if it wasn’t because of the tight bun giving the woman a face-lift. The woman was small, yet spry and a bevy of knowledge and gossip, which was invaluable to Cay.

 

“Can you imagine it…I got lost under the water?” Cay laughed out loud as she looked around to make sure no other customers were in the store.

 

“Lands sake, what happened?” The older woman said as she approached Cay.

 

Cay relaxed her stance as Hannah came closer. “Somehow I got all turned around and ended up down by the point.”

 

“Ah, the Sander’s place. Emma doesn’t take kindly to anyone comin’ on her property.” Hannah then looked Cay up and down. “You’re still in one piece so I guess she didn’t see you.” She said in all seriousness.

 

“No, I saw her. She’s not very friendly, what’s her story.” Cay was pleased to see Hannah’s face light up…that meant she had a story and would give up all the pertinent facts; most of which Cay already knew, but there may be a tidbit she didn’t.

 

“Oh, that poor child…her mother died three months ago and I thought for sure Emma would pack up and go, but she stayed...I guess to watch over the properties. Fortunately, she learned the ins and outs of managing properties from her mother before she passed.  Anyway, her mother, Esther, was so demanding of her it is a wonder that child didn’t die first. Her father, Bob, was a wonderful, kind man whose family settled this area over a hundred years ago. Then there was the fire and Esther moved out here from the city; the only place she had left to live, I imagine. Eventually Emma joined her mother to take full time care of her. Every Thursday, come rain or shine, Esther would have Emma push her in the wheelchair to the store.

 

Now, that woman was on the heavy side so you know it wasn’t easy for poor Emma, but she did it and never complained.” Hannah smiled, and then continued. “I remember one time they came in and Esther was in a particularly harsh mood and told her daughter to stand by the counter until she was done. I was putting flowers in a vase…she was watching me real intent like and told me daisies were her favorite so I offered her one. At first she smiled then a look of fear crossed her face when she heard her mother’s voice. She didn’t take the flower…I always have felt sorry for her…I don’t think she ever had anyone care for her, not even her mother.” A sad look came over the old woman’s face. “Here I am rattling on and on and I am sure you have some shopping to do.”

 

“Hannah, you know I always like your stories.” Cay winked. “That’s why I come in here.”

 

Hannah laughed and waved her hand in the air. “Oh, you!” She exclaimed before turning back to stocking the shelves.

 

Cay reached in her pocket and switched off the recorder before picking up a loaf of bread and some deli meats for dinner. Tonight she would make herself sandwiches and go over the tape and other information hoping to find the niche that would lead to Emma Sanders’ trust.

 

So, she never complains and likes daisies. That could prove useful. Cay thought to herself as she walked back to her cabin. There was something about the tall, thin woman that Cay was sure she could use to her advantage. Her hazel eyes held sadness, but there was more, they were empty and lonely. The calf length gray flowered dress that the woman wore was right out of the fifties. If ever there was a person in need of a friend, its Emma Sanders, Cay thought as she made herself a sandwich and placed it on a plate. Sitting at the small table she took a long swallow of her beer before bringing the sandwich to her lips. The woman on the dock filled her mind as she thought of all the possibilities that lay before her. Use the tools you have, Cay. Her father would tell her when she had a particularly difficult case. The answer is there you just need to be open to it when you come across it. “You’re right, Papa.” Then she began reading the files she brought with her, once more before listening to her recent conversation with Hannah.

 

* * * * *

7

 

Emma woke turning her head in all directions hearing crackles as she tried to work out the creaks in her neck. Opening her eyes, she looked around the room and wondered why she was in the front room sleeping with the shotgun in her lap. Closing her eyes again she remembered the strange woman who emerged from the water and a shiver ran up her spine. She looked up to the clock on the mantle; it was five-thirty and time to get up. Stretching once again, she sighed before getting up to begin her day. Returning the shotgun to the closet she wondered if the woman would ever come back and kill her.

 

Someone is always out to get you, Emma; you never know when they will strike. Trust no one if you know what’s good for you. I won’t always be here to protect you. Her mother would tell her over and over and now, it would seem that she was right. A sense of foreboding sent shivers through her body.

 

Going into the kitchen she set the kettle on to boil as she began to prepare her usual breakfast…dry toast, fruit and tea. The menu never changed, it had been her breakfast fare for as long as she could remember. At precisely six-thirty, as it was each morning, the dishes were done, and she had showered and was dressed for the day. An hour later she gathered up her gardening tools and headed for the flowerbed and the pesky weeds before seeing to the emerging seedlings in her garden.

 

Standing in her yard she looked towards the refuge as the familiar sight and sounds of a flock of geese glided to the surface; she felt at peace. Cool morning breezes made the glassy water ripple gently as a light mist seemingly rose from the water. The entire refuge seemed to be partially enclosed in a shroud of fog giving the entire area a surreal appearance. Water droplets on the various water plants sparkled in the new sun’s rays seeming like shinning silver or diamonds. To Emma, it looked like what she imagined the forest of the fairies in Middle Earth did and wondered if Legolas, of J. R. R. Tolkien’s books, would somehow appear.

 

Turning back to her chore at hand she placed her tools on the grass, knelt down and began weeding. At some point, out of the corner of her eye she caught a glimpse of something. Glancing towards the lake, she saw a kayak gliding effortlessly across the peaceful lake before disappearing in to the refuge. A frown crossed Emma’s face as she realized that soon the summer crowd would invade her lake and she would have to endure the constant disturbance of her tranquility. Her eyes narrowed as she noticed that something that did not belong there was on her dock.

 

She put her tools down and got up off the ground as she cautiously walked towards the dock. Her heart was racing and her breathing quickened as she slowly walked down the slippery dock towards the object scowling. “Who has been on my dock and left their garbage behind.” She growled as she tried to figure out what it was. Closing in on the item she noticed a large bouquet of daisies wrapped in florist paper. Her eyes scanned the area to see if anyone was lurking around. Noticing no one, she bent over and picked up the flowers breathing in their distinctive scent. I wonder who…where. She thought, walking back down the dock, stopping once again when she was on land. Turning towards the lake, she searched the lake once again until her eyes rested on the wildlife preserve. A slight smile crossed her face, perhaps the fairies are about after all, she thought before going back to her gardening carrying the flowers.

 

The sun was beginning to beat down as she moved along the flowerbed where emerging plants peeked up at her. Emma stopped and listened to the melodic sounds of a wood thrush. “Rain is on its way, thank you for telling me.” Through the years she had noticed the thrush never sang its song unless it was going to rain. She sped up her weeding before the showers began.

 

Just as Emma was pushing her garden tools down into a bucket of oil soaked sand it began to sprinkle. A nice spring shower she thought as she picked up and admired the daisies. Going inside, she carefully removed the paper, and then began to clip each stem before finally placing them in a glass vase. They’re beautiful. She thought with a smile, as she placed the container on the kitchen table. Who put them on my dock, I wonder? My favorite flowers...what a nice touch in the kitchen.

 

Going into the front room she paused by the picture of her long lost family. A pang of sadness filled her heart for what never was. For Emma, her punishment for surviving was to play nursemaid to her mother. Her guilt-ridden life would hold no hope or happiness as long as she insisted on holding onto the past. Sighing, she headed for her small room to gather what she needed before walking to the store; it was Thursday, which meant it was shopping day.

 

* * * * *

 

She watched, through binoculars, as Emma walked cautiously out on the dock to retrieve the flowers; smiling victoriously when the woman carried them away. Observing that the woman was leery of the gift she wrote a quick note about confidence before continuing her surveillance. The kayak was not the best for carrying equipment, but it was small enough to conceal close to the shore. When Emma reached the end of the dock and looked back on the lake, Cay held her breath fearing she had been spotted. Gazing around her surroundings and her location she breathed easier. Tall water plants were thickly woven together hiding her completely from the shore. No way anyone can see me here. She had been out every morning for several days hoping to catch Emma outside. Now, I can watch and learn.

 

The Sanders’ home was unlike the others on the lake; built out of native rocks with a large screened in porch facing the lake. She was certain she saw Emma watching her from that porch after their meeting of the night before. The well-kept, landscaped yard was adorned with many flowerbeds with emerging plants. A flagstone walkway lined with numerous rose bushes led to a large oak tree where two white Adirondack chairs sat. To one side of the grass was a fenced in area that looked as though it was a vegetable garden.  Observing Emma working in her yard, Cay surmised the woman was responsible for the well cared for grounds. Somehow she didn’t think Emma would have a gardener or other stranger on her property. Jones’ Landing bound the property to the north and the wildlife refuge was the southern boundary.

 

As she studied Emma working in her garden, Cay took in the woman as a whole. When she saw her the day before she thought her scrawny, but now, watching her move, she realized she was very fit. She no longer wore a dress, but what looked like men’s trousers, held up with suspenders and an oversized grey shirt with the sleeves turned up exposing slightly muscular arms. The clothes, as was the case from the night before, were clearly from a gone by era. I wonder whose clothes those were? Cay asked herself. Are they her father’s or mother’s?  The woman certainly was becoming more and more intriguing; not at all what Cay expected. Meeting the woman face to face should have answered questions, not made more.

 

Once Emma finished gardening and went into her house, Cay began to paddle back to her cabin as gentle raindrops fell. She would transpose all her observations into her notebook before going to the store for some much needed breakfast.

 

* * * * *

8

 

“Good morning, Cay.” Hannah called out as the blonde woman strode casually into the store. “You going to have the usual for breakfast?” She asked with a smile.

 

Mike Timmons, a grizzled older man with a substantial beer belly, who ate breakfast there every morning, joined in. “Girl, if you don’t change your eatin’ habits those arteries are going to close up on you.” He said as he let out a belly laugh as he gave her the once over.

 

“Mike, you been telling me that every morning for the last week. I notice that you might have a problem too.” Cay said laughing as she pointed to his greasy plate of eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes and biscuits.

 

“Well, it’s Hannah’s fault…she’s too good a cook.” Mike replied.

 

Cay patted the man on his back as she sat down at the counter next to him. “Thank God for that or I’d starve to death.” She said as she placed her hands around a waiting mug of coffee and drank the delicious brew.

 

“How’s the writing going?” Hannah asked as she placed a plate of fresh biscuits, butter and jelly on the counter.

 

“I didn’t know you was writin’ a book.” Mike interjected into the conversation. “Dang you don’t look like the book learnin’ kind.”

 

“Gee, thanks for the compliment, Mike. She said as she slapped his shoulder. “Actually a friend told me it was a good way to relieve stress and since I came here to do that I’m giving it a try. To answer your question, Hannah, it is going pretty good.” Cay began to laugh. “The biggest problem is coming up with an idea.”

 

Everyone laughed heartily until Hannah began to move away from the counter towards the arriving customer.

 

Turning, Cay’s heart skipped a beat when she saw Emma Sanders arrive in the store. This must be my lucky day; I didn’t think she would be in this early since it is raining. She thought, as she looked the woman over. Much to her surprise, Emma was wearing the same clothes she had on when gardening, even the old worn hat. This puzzled Cay as she thought the dress of the day before was the norm. I may have to rethink my initial thoughts. Her mind racing not noticing her breakfast set in front of her.

 

“Hey, Girly, you want your food or not?” Zachariah asked loudly.

 

Turning, Cay looked at the old, unshaven man puzzled by his question until she noticed the full plate of food before her. “Sorry, yes, thanks.” She began to wolf the food down which did not go unnoticed by Mike.

 

“Golly, Girl, you sure are hungry today,” Mike said trying to divert Cay’s attention from Hannah and Emma. “What’s so interesting about them? That Sanders gal is nothing but loony, just ask anyone.” He continued.

 

That comment got Cay’s attention. “What do you mean by that?” She asked casually still trying to make out what the two women were saying.

 

“Well, she stays out thar at that big ole house all by her lonesome. Don’t talk to no one, but let one of us be late with our rent and she’s got the sheriff out after us.” He snorted. “No secret she’s been in and out of the mental hospitals.”

 

Cay turned and coldly looked Mike squarely in the eyes giving him an icy stare. “She seems to be talking to Hannah and I have spoken with her myself, Mike. Maybe she’s just particular about talking to just anyone. Because someone wants to be paid on time doesn’t make them loony.” Throwing her money on the counter, she got up and headed towards the two women.

 

Mike’s face turned red as he began to bluster and snort before putting his money on the counter and making for the door. He made sure his path went close by Emma sneering and muttering bitch under his breath before storming out of the store.

 

Cay was standing by the canned goods discreetly listening to two women’s conversation when Mike flew by. Looking up, she captured Emma’s eyes, “What a slob.” She said softly as she reached in her pocket to start the mini recorder.

 

Emma didn’t know what to do as her eyes darted around the store; anywhere but on the woman standing near her. Other than Hannah, no one had ever spoken to her before and certainly no one ever spoke badly of Mike Timmons. He was one man you didn’t want to get on the wrong side of…she had first hand experience with that. Casting her eyes downward she whispered. “Yes, he is.” She could feel the pull of the blue eyes looking through her…again she began to clutch her shirt trying to protect herself.

 

“Excuse me, Hannah. If I wanted to make a beef tips dinner would I use this or this?” Cay asked holding up a can of cream of cauliflower soup in her left hand and one of Harvard beets in the other.

 

A great laugh of pure joy came out of the shopkeeper. “Just how much cookin’ have you done, child?” The phone began to ring and Hannah hesitated hoping her husband would get it…he didn’t. “Hold on a minute.” She said as she scurried off to answer the phone.

 

Cay stood there holding the cans and looking at the other choices on the shelf, seemingly perplexed as what to do. She became aware of Emma standing closer to her and held her breath as she hoped the woman would speak.

 

A soft, almost inaudible sound came from Emma. “I can help you.” She eked out, her body trembling from the bold action. She was rewarded with a radiant smile.

 

“You can…I mean you would? I sure would appreciate that. I’ve been here a week and diner food and sandwiches are about to do me in. I thought I would make myself a decent meal…well, as decent as the stove will allow in my cabin.”

 

Emma listened to the soft low tones of the woman’s voice and marveled at how she was so open. “You said you wanted to make beef tips, do you have the beef already?”

 

Cay let out a low, joyous laugh. “You need beef?” She said teasingly until she noticed the dour look on the woman’s face. “I’m sorry, that wasn’t too funny was it…and all you were doing was trying to help. I don’t have any of the ingredients.” She said, pretending embarrassment.

 

Shifting her feet, Emma didn’t know what to say. She was certain the woman’s remarks was meant to be funny, but she could see nothing funny about the comment. If you were making beef tips you certainly would need beef!

 

“I’m back.” Hannah said as she closed in on the women. “Oh, I see you have been talking with Cay, Emma. Do you two know each other?” She asked innocently.

 

“She trespassed on my property!” Emma exclaimed. “Now, I have shopping to do, please excuse me, Hannah.” Then she turned to Cay. “Hannah has all the answers you’ll need.” She said brusquely before turning and proceeding down the aisle.

 

Watching the woman walk quickly away, Cay looked at Hannah for the answer. “Was it something I did or said?”

 

Hannah patted Cay’s arm. “No, dear she doesn’t get along well with other folks.”

 

Little did either women know that Emma was carefully watching them speaking to each other. Why did I ever speak to that woman? She chided herself as she felt her face redden with the thought.

 

Cay’s eyebrows crunched together. “Why Hannah? Is it because of her mother?”

 

“Partly, but I think it is mostly because she has never been around people all that much. Her mother kept a tight reign on her and never let her out of her sight. I think her mother terrified her into thinking we are all enemies. Of course, there was that one incident with a one of the kids whose family lived here during the summer that Esther hired to clean up after a big storm.”

 

“An incident? What kind of incident, Hannah?” Cay could feel her body begin to react with anticipation to finding out what happened.

 

“Not real sure, just know that he worked there for about two weeks until Esther called the sheriff and the kid was arrested. It was all kept quiet, I only know ‘cause the sheriff, was here when he got the call.”

 

Cay was rapidly trying to digest everything and rested her arm against her pocket relieved that the mini recorder was still going. “Mike said she owns properties, but I don’t think he likes her too much.”

 

Hannah shook her head. “Actually, she owns a great deal of the lake properties, but I think she has lawyers that tend to that. That’s what I heard anyway. People don’t know what to make of her so they spread stories without any meat to them.”

 

“I know all about that.” Cay said softly.

 

“Now, what was it you wanted to make?”

 

“I’ve changed my mind…maybe tomorrow.” She said as her eyes scanned the store for Emma’s whereabouts. Spotting her by the fruit she debated about approaching the woman again. “No, I will keep to the plan.” She said to herself.

 

“What plan dear?” Hannah asked.

 

Shaking her head, Cay silently chastised herself for speaking out loud. “My plan for the day. I was going to change it, but I think not. I’ll see you later.” Cay smiled and walked outside where she took up a position where she could covertly watch for Emma to leave the store. This day was proving to be the best since her arrival.

 

Taking out a cell phone from her bag, she dialed a number and waited for an answer. “I’ve made contact.” She said.

 

“Excellent, you know what to do.”

 

Closing the phone, she watched as Emma left the store and headed down the gravelly road pulling her shopping basket behind her. “Damn, if only I could have seen what she bought.” Cay said to herself as she moved in the shadows towards her cabin and her car.

 

* * * * *

 

Walking down the road, Emma was lost in a world of her own listening to the birds and the rustle of the wind in the trees. She never noticed the car speeding towards her until it was right upon her. Startled, she dove for a grassy area as the car sped by her. Getting up off the ground slowly she wiped the mud off as best she could noticing her torn trousers and the blood on them. Noticing her groceries strewn along the roadway she muttered to herself, “Stupid! Pay attention, Emma,” as she bent over to retrieve a box of teabags.

 

“Need some help?” A voice asked.

 

Looking up holding her hand to shield her eyes from the sun, trying to make out who was speaking to her. Frowning she said. “No, no I can manage.”

 

A tender touch on her arm made her stop. “You’re bleeding. Let me help.”

 

The voice and the face were so sincere Emma had no choice but to say, “Thank you.” Looking down at the torn trousers covered in blood she shrugged. “I’m sure it looks worse than it is. Probably just a scratch,” she said, determined not to let the other woman see her pain.

 

Cay finished reloading the basket. “There that is all done. Why don’t you let me drive you home?”

 

Emma looked apprehensively towards the small forest green VW convertible parked along side the road then into the blue eyes. “I…I don’t know.”

 

“Come on, I would hate to have you walk the rest of the way and injure yourself further.” Cay was smiling her most persuasive smile as she lifted the grocery cart into her car. Opening the door she waved to Emma. “Please.”

 

Emma took one step towards the car only to stop as pain shot through her leg. Suddenly the woman was by her side. “Let me help you,” she said as she gently, but firmly guided Emma towards the car.”

 

“I can’t, I just can’t! I don’t even know your name.” Emma protested.

 

“Cay, Cay O’Neill. And you are?”

 

For a brief moment, the woman gently holding her up took Emma aback. “Emma Sanders.” She said as she tentatively held out her hand.

 

Smiling broadly Cay took the hand and squeezed. “Pleased to meet you.” She said as she guided the injured woman into her car.

 

“Stop here,” Emma said when the car came upon her driveway, “I can walk from here.”

 

The driver just smiled as she turned and maneuvered her car down the rocky driveway her eyes taking in all the surroundings. Stopping by the side of the house she turned to Emma. “Sit right there until I come around and I’ll help you into your house.”

 

Horror and apprehension filled Emma’s face. “No!” She exclaimed. “I can do it myself!” she said as she hastily tried to exit the automobile. “Ow!”

 

Once again Cay was by her side. “Let me help you, please. I won’t hurt you…I promise.”

 

Emma didn’t know what to do. This woman scared her and she didn’t want her in her house. Gritting her teeth, she turned in the seat and forced herself to stand up. “No, I’m fine. Would you please lift my groceries out of your car?” She said in what seemed to be an annoyed voice.

 

Cay frowned. “Sure…if that is what you want.” Leaning into the car, she grasped the grocery cart and easily lifted it out of the car.

 

Nodding her head in thanks, Emma took hold of the handle and began walking towards the door and safety. The pain she felt in her leg was almost unbearable, but she would not let the other woman know that. Reaching the door, she unlocked it then turned back towards Cay. “Thank you.” She said curtly before going inside and closing the door.

 

Cay stood there astonished as she watched the door close. She was certain she had made headway with Emma, yet she was on the outside. Getting in her car she started the engine. “Well, looks like I need to change strategies. Hmm, I will go over everything I learned today…I’m sure the key is there.” She said to herself as she entered the highway from the drive. Yep, just a momentary setback. She thought as she shifted gears.

 

Standing inside her house, secure from the invasion of the stranger, Emma watched as the automobile left her property. Confusing feelings about the strange woman were running rampant through her mind. She thought she saw sincerity in the woman’s eyes and face, yet she hesitated. Why? A shiver ran through her body as she recalled similar faces, so kind and caring in the hospitals only to tie her down and drug her. It was good I didn’t let her in; everyone has an agenda. She thought as she turned only to feel the sharp pain in her leg.

 

Limping to the table she sat down clumsily on a chair. Bending down she spread open the tear on her trousers. Shaking her head she reprimanded herself for allowing the injury to happen.

 

One good thing about taking care of her invalid mother, Emma had amassed an entire pharmacy of drugs and other medical devices. She had removed her trousers and moved into the bathroom to treat her leg. She opened the large linen closet, pulled out an oversized plastic container that held what she needed, and placed it on the floor. Lowering the toilet lid she sat down only to be stunned by the coldness of the seat against her bare legs. She shook her head as she gently cleaned off the wound. “I will have to go back there and see what could have caused this. Strange, I don’t remember it happening.”

 

The gash on her lower leg was about two inches long and fairly deep. Stitches she thought as she reached into the bin for gloves and a surgical kit. One thing missing was any local anesthesia so she would have to tolerate the pain. “No use going to a doctor and paying him to do what I can do myself.” She said as she began to stitch her leg.

 

That night Emma’s dreams turned into nightmares. Men in white clothes that wanted to stop her were chasing her. Vivid colors filled the skies in what seemed to be a kaleidoscope of fireworks as she found herself lying on her back on hard cold ground. She knew if she stayed very still the men in white clothes would pass her by. As the sky filled with more colors the men drew nearer calling out her name…Emma, Emma where are you. She was sweating from the terror that filled her body, as ghostly creatures seemed to fly just above her head. Her eyes grew large as she saw a familiar figure standing over her. Who could it be? The figure was holding out a hand saying come with me Emma, I will keep you safe. Then she was standing, her body naked as the ghostly figures pricked her skin. She raised her arms and flung them at the figures. Get out of here! She screamed only to have them torment her more. All the voices began calling her, wanting her to come with them as the ghosts taunted her with stinging arrows. Suddenly she saw her mother waving her over and she floated to her side. Her mother grabbed her…I’ve got her boys, come get her, the naughty girl. All the white clothes were around her tying her arms and legs before carrying her off. Then, they stopped. Emma looked up in the sky and saw piercing blue eyes boring down on the men turning them into stone. Emma screamed…No! You won’t take me! Then she woke, her sheets soaked, her heart beating fast and her body trembling.

 

She could feel her body burning up with fever and attempted to get out of her bed to go for aspirin and antibiotics. Pulling her body up into a sitting position and dangling her feet over the side of the bed, she attempted to stand. Excruciating pain shot through the wound and up her leg causing her to scream out before falling back onto the bed and passing out. She floated in and out of consciousness for the next two days as nightmares continued to haunt her.

 

* * * * *

9

 

Two days had passed since Cay found Emma injured on the side of the road. Her constant surveillance of the residence produced nothing but a stuffy nose from sitting out in the elements. Emma seemed to be missing in action, not even spending the end of her day on the dock.

 

Hearing her alarm go off, Cay turned over repeatedly hitting what she thought was the button until it finally stopped. Dragging out of bed she went to the bathroom then took a quick shower before dressing. It was four thirty and she planned to take the dingy down to Emma’s dock and sit there watching for the lights to come on in the house. If she saw none, she would speak with Hannah and hopefully they would go check on the woman.

 

Cay had watched the Sanders’ house enough to know that around five thirty each morning the lights would go on. Now, on the third day, she sat huddled in the dingy that was boldly tied up to Emma’s dock. Her emotions were mixed as she hoped the lights would go on to signal the woman inside was okay. At the same time, if she was going to accomplish her job she needed the home to continue to be dark. I don’t want her to be sick, but I need in and this could be the only chance I’ll have. She thought, as six o’clock rolled around and not one light shown in the residence. Guiding her small craft back to the docks she considered how she would approach Hannah about checking on Emma. It would be tricky, but she was certain she could convince the woman they needed to check on Emma.

 

Hannah looked up from reading the paper as the only guest in the cabins strolled into the store. “Goodness, Cay, you certainly are early this morning. Did you have trouble sleeping?” the older woman asked with concern.

 

Smiling Cay greeted Hannah and Zachariah. “Good morning,” she said with a smile, “just woke up and thought I would get an early start, Hannah. How are the two of you this fine morning?” she asked before making her way to the counter and taking a seat. “I think I’ll have something different this morning.” She announced in a cheerful voice.

 

Zachariah frowned. “Girly, ever since you’ve been comin’ in here you’ve always had the same thing. Why you want to change?”

 

An infectious smile crossed Cay’s face as she winked at the old man. “Variety is the spice of life and I need some spice. This morning I’m havin’ flapjacks and sausage.”

 

No sooner had she said that before Hannah sat down beside her and patted her back gently. “You getting lonely, honey? Can I help?”

 

Cay tilted her head before speaking. “Now, Hannah, how could anyone ever get lonely with two fine people like you and Zach here to keep them company?”

 

Hannah laughed loudly before tapping Cay on the arm. “Oh, you flatterer.” Looking up at Zachariah she scowled. “Hurry up old man get her some griddle cakes.” She then smiled at the woman next to her. “Tell me, how is it going…the book I mean?”

 

“Fabulous! I am starting to make headway.” She said shaking her head and grinning. “I might ever have a chapter done today.” Then she paused for a moment as a serious expression came over her face. “I wonder if you have seen anything of that woman I met in here the other day?”

 

Crunching her eyebrows together, Hannah had to think of whom Cay was speaking about. “Oh, you mean Emma Sanders. I don’t expect to see her before next Thursday that is when she comes in here. Why do you ask?” Hannah could never remember a time when anyone asked her about Emma and now Cay was asking in a very solemn tone.

 

Cay knew she had to tread lightly and not give Hannah any reason to suspect she had other motives. “Last Thursday I was driving south and from a distance she seemed to jump out of the way of a car and she took a spill.”

 

Hannah covered her mouth. “Oh no! Was she hurt?”

 

“I think so, she had a sizable gash on her leg. I drove her home and offer to take her groceries inside and look at the wound, but she refused.” Cay shrugged her shoulders. “She acted like I was going to steal something.”

 

“That would be Emma. She is very afraid of strangers.”

 

“It would seem so, Hannah. I wished she would have let me help her…that cut looked real nasty and dirty.” Cay watched the expression on Hannah’s face as she began to make the connection Cay hoped she would.

 

“Goodness, that poor child is there all alone, no one would know if she was sick or not!”

 

“Maybe you could call her and see if she is okay.” Cay suggested.

 

“I can’t do that, there’s no phone there.” Hannah said as worry began to fill her eyes.

 

Cay took a breath. “No phone? How can that be?  Everyone has a phone these days.” She could feel the rapid beat of her heart. “That wound was so dirty, I’d worry about infection.” She held her breath hoping the older woman would take the bait.

 

“Is that your car out there?” She asked and was answered with a shaking head. “Good! Old man I gotta’ run an errand.” She hollered into the kitchen.

 

Now reel her in. Cay thought trying hard not to smile.

 

“Come on, you’re takin’ me there.” She ordered as she headed for the door.

 

“Hey, what about this here food?” Zach called out to the retreating backs.

 

Cay followed close behind a slight smile of victory on her face. Game, set match. She thought as she climbed into her car.

 

* * * * *

 

Hannah seemed to jump out of the small car and walk quickly up to the side door of Emma’s house. Rapping lightly on the door she frowned when she received no answer.  Next, she began banging on the door and calling out the woman’s name. “Emma, are you in there? It’s Hannah, dear, please let me in.” Still nothing…she tried turning the doorknob without success. Fear gripped her as she now was convinced something was terribly wrong.

 

Cay quietly stood by the older woman’s side biding her time. “Want me to go to the front door and try?” She asked with a note of worry in her voice.

 

“Better let me go, if she sees a stranger she won’t answer.” Hannah said as she patted Cay’s arm. “Why don’t you come along?”

 

 The worried expression on the old woman’s face told Cay she was right on the mark about Emma Sanders condition.  Shaking her head she told Hannah, “Why don’t I stay here and look around, who knows, maybe she has a key hidden somewhere.”

 

“Okay, dear, do what you want, but if you find a key I will be shocked.” Hannah said as she headed for the screen porch and the front door.

 

Watching the woman walk away, Cay silently laughed. Oh I’ll find a key, no doubt about it. Once Hannah was out of site, Cay took a tool kit from her pocket and easily opened the locked door. Quietly opening the door she looked inside only to find three steps leading to another door. Stretching, she tested the knob…it was unlocked. Backing out, she shut the door quietly and went to the front of the house.

 

Hannah was again banging on the door calling out Emma’s name. “Emma, please open the door, I’m worried about you.” She was startled as a hand touched her back.

 

“Hannah, any luck?” Cay asked softly.

 

“Oh, its you.” She said as she grasped her hand over her heart.

 

Sincerity filled Cay’s face. “Did I scare you?” she asked. “I’m sorry. Hey, listen, I tried the door back there and it is unlocked.”

 

Hannah shook her head slightly as she wrinkled her face in a doubtful look. “Unlocked?” I thought I tired that and it was locked, I must be losing my mind. She thought and shook her head. “I can’t believe Emma would ever leave her door unlocked. Are you sure?”

 

Arching her eyebrows, Cay replied. “Well I turned the knob really hard and it opened. I didn’t go any further thought you should be the one to go inside.”

 

A look of horror crossed Hannah’s face. “Oh no, I just thought that maybe someone broke in. Maybe that is why the door is unlocked. Hurry we need to get inside and find her!” Hannah urged as she briskly walked out of the screen porch.

 

The upper door creaked as Hannah opened it slowly. “Emma, Emma are you here?” she called out. Hearing no reply she crept further into the house with Cay close behind her.

 

“Hannah, why don’t you let me go first just in case someone else is in there?”

 

It had never occurred to Hannah that she might be in danger, but when Cay mentioned it she suddenly shivered in fear. “Good idea.”

 

Cay moved quietly in front of the older woman moving further into the kitchen. What she saw amazed her.

 

The small, but functional kitchen was in museum condition. The old Frigidaire refrigerator looked like it just came from the showroom, as did the stove. The Formica countertops still had the sheen of new not fifty years old. The chrome of the kitchen table still showed bright enough to blind someone. The only thing out of place was the vase of drooping daises dropping petals on the tablecloth. A subtle scent of lavender filled the air.

 

Hannah just stood there with her mouth open as she looked around the area. “My goodness.” She managed to say. Finally she remembered why they were there. “Emma, are you here?” She called out.

 

Cay peeked into the front room and found the conditions much the same as the kitchen. The walls were adorned with rose pattern wallpaper and several quality waterscapes. The furniture, although dated, remarkably still looked new with a high polish on the tables. “I didn’t see her in there.” She said as the moved towards the hallway.

 

The first door they came to opened into the bathroom, which was also immaculate. Cay moved a few steps inside and noticed bloody bandages and gauze in the garbage. Not a good sign. She thought as she followed Hannah down the hall.

 

Opening the next door they found the bedroom that apparently belonged to Emma’s mother. A wheelchair sat in one corner with a robe draped over one side. The bed was turned back with a nightgown laid out waiting for the wearer to return. Cay took this all in as she surveyed the room quickly while Hannah moved on down the hall.

 

“Cay, come quick!” Hannah called out with alarm.

 

Walking quickly down the hall, Cay entered a small bedroom where she saw Emma Sanders lying under white sheets as still as death. Hannah was standing still with her hand over her mouth. Cay touched her shoulder as she moved past her towards the woman in the bed.

 

“Is she dead?” Hannah whispered.

 

Cay knelt down, felt for a pulse, and found one. “No, she’s alive. She’s burning up though.”

 

Emma came up to the bed and took Emma’s hand. “Emma, wake up, dear.” Getting no response she gently shook the woman. “Emma, wake up, we’re here to help you.”

 

Emma began to groan as she struggled to open her eyes. “Mother.” she said groggily as she tried to focus on who was speaking to her, “Hannah, is that you?” she croaked out.

 

Hannah sat down on the bed soothing the disoriented woman as Cay carefully inspected the injured leg.

 

“Who’s that?” Emma asked in fear as she struggled to raise her head.

 

“It is Cay O’Neill, sweetheart.” Hannah said as she patted the cold, clammy hand of Emma.

 

Emma’s face became contoured in a grimace as Cay removed the saturated bandage. Closing her eyes, the injured woman seemed to doze off until she began speaking again. “No strangers…can’t have strangers in the house, Mother will be angry…you have to leave before she sees you.”

 

Cay shook her head when she removed the last of the bandages. An area of red, hot skin surrounded the sutured area with what looked like pus oozing all around. This is bad. She thought as she stood up and moved to the head of the bed.

 

Dizzying thoughts whirled through Emma’s head. How can I let these people stay in the house? I need their help, but mother will be so angry. No…no more hospitals, mother please, I’ll be good. What should I do? I need to get up and stop them! Struggling to free her upper body from the bedclothes that seemed to entangle her, Emma cried out. “Stop!”

 

Both women stared at Emma, who seemed to be dazed and disoriented.

 

“Hannah, she needs to go back to the doctor and have this looked at, I’m positive it is infected.” She quietly told the older woman. “The fever seems to be making her delirious; that is not a good sign.”

 

“Oh dear.” Hannah said with a confused look on her face. “I don’t know what doctor she uses…let me go out in the front room and look in the desk.” then she got up. “Cay, you sit next to her, it seems to calm her if someone is near.”

 

After Hannah left, Cay sat cautiously down on the bed next to Emma wondering what she should do. This was the perfect opportunity to look around, yet she felt the need to comfort the ill woman. Taking Emma’s hand, she looked at the face of the woman. Her features were soft with full lips and a square chin with just the hint of a cleft. Her hair, that had once been very dark, had a few streaks of gray, which seemed to blend flawlessly with the dark. Her skin was flushed, but Cay could tell it was well taken care of looking as if she were much younger than her years. Noticing her hands were large and calloused, probably from gardening, she thought until she looked around the room. “And, all the cleaning.” She said softly.

 

Emma began to stir then opened her eyes and pulled back in horror. “Where is Hannah?” she said with a tremor in her voice.

 

Cay smiled slightly trying to give Emma a sense of calm. “She is out in the front room to find your doctor’s name. She’ll be right back.”

 

The hand Cay had been holding flew out of her hand and grasped her shirt tightly as the woman rose up off the bed. “No doctors…please.” Emma cried out.

 

“Your leg is infected we need to get you some medical help or you might end up losing your leg or worse.” Cay pleaded. “We can take you to the hospital if you prefer.”

 

The hand holding her shirt pulled Cay closer. “NO! No hospital. You can help me!”

 

Cay frowned. “I…I don’t know what to do, Emma. You need a doctor.”

 

“I know what to do I just need your help.” Emma managed before falling back on her pillow releasing Cay’s shirt. “In the bathroom linen closet…plastic box…I need it.” She whispered before closing her eyes.

 

Sighing deeply, Cay was bewildered and surprised as she rested her hands on her knees. “Okay, I’ll help you,” she said quietly before standing up and heading out of the room almost running into Hannah.

 

“Oh, I didn’t see you coming out!” Hannah exclaimed surprised by the woman in the doorway. “I couldn’t find any doctor’s name, guess we should take her to the hospital.”

 

Cay led the older woman further down the hallway. “She refuses to see a doctor or go to a hospital. She’s asked me to help her treat the wound…said she knew how.” Cay shrugged her shoulders. “I’m not sure we can do it, but I’m willing to try if you are.”

 

The older woman patted Cay’s arm. “Don’t worry, we can do it together. I hadn’t thought about her fear of doctors, but I’m not surprised. The last time she saw her mother alive was when the ambulance took her to the hospital.” She thought for a moment, “I’m pretty sure she will know what to do after all she took care of an invalid for over twenty years.” Then she smiled fondly, “Now, I’ll go find some aspirin or something like that for the fever.”

 

“Okay, I need to get some sort of container from the bathroom”. She said as she headed down the hallway.

 

Opening the linen closet, Cay saw the white plastic container; carefully pulling it out she sat it down on the sink. Lifting the lid she was surprised by the amount of prescription drugs and other medical equipment. Maybe she does know what to do. Cay thought putting the lid back on before carrying it down the hall.

 

Standing in the doorway, Cay studied Hannah and Emma speaking softly to one another. Hannah’s voice was soothing and Emma seemed to react to it in kind. Storing that observation, she cleared her throat. “Here’s the container, hope it’s the right one.” She said entering the room.

 

“Good.” Hannah said. “Emma, dear, you need to stay awake and tell us what to do, okay?”

 

Emma shook her head and attempted to open her eyes. “Wash hands…gloves,” she said weakly.

 

Soon the women were back and opening the container. “Emma, what should we do now?” Hannah asked as she and Cay put gloves on.

 

Lifting her head slightly, Emma pointed to her leg. “Take the stitches out.”

 

“Cay, dear, can you do it? My eyes are not all that good and I left my spectacles at the store?” Hannah asked, but seemed more to be pleading.

 

Cay rolled her eyes and sighed. “Sure, no problem.”

 

Swallowing hard, Cay found a suture removal kit containing tweezers and scissors in the box, and carefully opened the sterile pack. “I’ve never done this before.” She said as she worked up courage to begin.

 

A somewhat stern voice was heard, “Take the stitches out now!” Emma commanded before laying her head back on her pillow.

 

“You’re the boss.” Cay said as she began lifting and cutting the stitches. “Okay, that’s done. What’s next?” She said looking squarely into Emma’s eyes.

 

“In the box…a brown bottle…small…it has long ribbon material in it.” Emma said trying to focus on what to do. “Pack the wound with it after you clean out the infection.” She said breathlessly.

 

Cay found the bottle, some gauze pads, a bottle of sterile water and bandages. She placed them all on the bed beside the injured leg and began to clean the wound. She thought seriously about throwing up as she began to wipe gently across the pus filled injury. Glancing out of the side of her eye, she saw Emma lying there still and marveled at her composure.

 

Hannah stood next to Cay and assisted by handing her new gauze pads and giving moral support. “Are you okay, dear?” She asked as she watched the woman pack the brownish strip into the wound.

 

Cay could only nod her head; her stomach was doing flip-flops. She worried if she lost her concentration she would loose whatever was left all over Emma’s leg causing an even worse infection.

 

Finally they were done. “Well, that’s the best I can do for you.” Cay said as she looked at the pale and far too thin woman. She never flinched. She thought. That must have hurt like hell.

 

A whispered thank you could be heard before Emma closed her eyes and sighed.

 

Hannah stood by the bed and took the woman’s hand. “Emma, dear, you’re in good hands now. I need to get back or that old man will come lookin’ for me.” She bent over and whispered something then turned to Cay smiling. “I’ll be back later on.”

 

There must have been a look of terror on Cay’s face for Hannah patted her arm. “You will do just fine.” She moved in closer. “If we need to we will get a doctor.”

 

Digging in her pocket, Cay took out her car keys. “Why don’t you drive back? I have my cell so I can call you if I need you to come back.”

 

“Why thank you dear…I will take good care of your car.” Emma said as she took the keys and headed out of the room.

 

* * * * *

 

Emma woke from a sound sleep and raised her head slightly; what she saw brought horror to her face. A stranger was sitting in a chair next to her bed with the head bent in sleep. “W-w-who are you?” she whispered, hoping beyond hope that this person was not going to kill her. There was no movement so Emma poked the arm of the sleeping stranger. “Who are you?” she said louder and stronger.

 

Cay heard the voice and tried desperately to open her eyes, but they wouldn’t cooperate. “Cay, I’m Cay.” She said as she twisted her neck in an attempt to relieve the giant spasm she felt there. Opening her eyes she looked into a face of fear. Instantly she realized what was happening. “Emma, remember, I fixed your leg?” she asked.

 

Emma’s head returned to the pillow and she closed her eyes trying to recall the recent events. “Yes, the fall on the side of the road, the cut.” Her hazel eyes opened sharply. “It was infected! You and Hannah…where is she?” Emma said as panic returned to her voice. “Did, did you kill her?”

 

“No, I didn’t kill her, she went back to the store.” Cay said as she stood up and moved closer before placing her hand against Emma’s forehead and cheek. Emma backed away from the touch. “It’s okay.” Cay said in her softest voice. “I was just checking for fever. You don’t seem as hot, I think it has broken.” She took a step back. “How does your leg feel?” She asked calmly.

 

Emma closed her eyes and breathed deeply. “The leg feels much better. I think I am well enough that you can go back to whatever you were doing before Hannah forced you to come here.” She would not open her eyes and make eye contact with the woman standing there. “Thank you for all you did. Please leave now.”

 

As her eyebrows furled, Cay tried to figure out what had just happened. “I wasn’t forced to come here, I wanted to…I was worried about you. Why are you so afraid of me? I won’t hurt you.” She said gently. “All I want to do right now is help you. How about a nice bowl of soup or something to eat?”

 

Emma opened her eyes, turned her head and looked into the blue eyes that seemed to beg her to trust their owner. Somewhere, deep inside her, she desperately wanted the woman to stay. Old fears kept haunting her, as did her mother’s words. The world is out to get you Emma, I’m the only one you can trust and depend on…don’t let anyone near…ever. The woman, whose eyes were as blue as the summer sky, had cleaned out her wound then stayed and slept in a chair by her bedside. I’m so tired of being lonely. She thought before speaking. “Soup would be nice.” Her reward was a sparkling smile.

 

“Great! How does chicken noodle sound? You have some don’t you?” she asked realizing that she was offering something that might not be available.

 

An infinitesimal smile came to Emma’s face. “Yes, in the kitchen…the cupboard next to the refrigerator…left door, second shelf.”

 

Cay smiled again. “Be right back with the soup. Oh, do you need any help getting to the bathroom or anything like that? You must need to go and you could clean up some at the same time.” She said soothingly.

 

Emma’s mind began to race. Do I let her help me or try it myself? She thought as she moved the injured leg. “The leg is good, I can go myself.” She said as she tried to sit up and dangle her legs over the side of the bed only to have her head spin violently. Taking a deep breath she steadied herself and managed to stay upright. I can’t let this woman see me as weak. Her mother’s words rang out in her fuzzy head. Weak people get taken advantage of, Emma. Never show your weakness. She said to herself. “See, good as new.”

 

Cay looked suspiciously at Emma. She was indeed sitting up on the bed and had no outward appearances of being incapacitated. Yet, there was something in her eyes that belied her, telling Cay all was not as rosy a picture as Emma was painting. “Okay, if you’re sure. You know we are both going the same way, why don’t I walk along with you just in case you need a shoulder.”

 

Mustering everything she had, Emma inched her feet closer to the floor and slid her slippers on her feet. Standing for a moment, she steadied her trembling legs, adjusted her long, white nightgown then began to step forward. “Let’s go.” She said as she began her slow journey to the bathroom.

 

Closing the bathroom door, Emma rested her back against it. She was fairly certain the she had fooled the woman into thinking she was able to walk on her own. Recalling the twenty foot walk, she could count at least six times she wanted to take the stranger’s arm, but chose the wall instead. Moving slowly towards the toilet she sat down. She sat there a bit longer to remove the bandage so she could get a good look at the injury. Satisfied it was improving she got up and went to the sink to wash up. “She said I needed to wash up some, guess she thinks I smell bad.” She said to herself as she ran a warm washcloth over her face. “Once she is gone I’ll take a proper bath.” She retrieved her robe from the hook on the bathroom door and put it on before going back to her room.

 

Cay found the soup, opened the can, poured it in a pot and turned the stove on. She thought about the woman in the bathroom and how mistrusting she seemed to be of everyone. Why do I always get the difficult ones? She thought until the smell of the boiling soup got her attention. Turning off the burner she poured the soup into a bowl and placed the bowl on a plate with a spoon. Open several lower cabinet doors she finally found a bed tray. Placing the soup bowl and plate on the tray she started for the bedroom then stopped at the kitchen table. Finding a daisy that was not too wilted she placed it on the tray alongside the napkin and spoon. I’ll have to remember to put water in that vase. She told herself as she continued to the bedroom. Not expecting Emma to be back she was surprised to find her back in bed.

 

“Soup time.” She said as she carefully positioned the tray across Emma’s lap. “Be careful it is very hot.” She cautioned. “If you want I can find some crackers or something like that.”

 

Shaking her head Emma said, “No.” then picked up the flower resting on the tray and brought it to her nose.

 

“I will put more water in the vase when I take the tray out.” Cay watched as Emma seemed to be in some sort of trance. “I hope you don’t mind my bringing the flower along with the soup,” she continued.

 

Emma’s hazel eyes looked up at Cay. “No, I love flowers…I’ve missed my garden.” She said absentmindedly. Then she put the flower down before carefully bringing a spoonful of soup to her mouth blowing on it to cool it off some. “Oh, that is awful.” She said loudly as she spit the soup back into the bowl. “Didn’t you add water?”

 

A bright red filled Cay’s face, “I…I…I’m not much of a cook…” Her shame was evident. “Let me fix it for you, I will add the water this time, I promise.” She said trying to take the tray. “I’m so sorry. Guess I should have read the directions.” She said making light of the situation to hide her embarrassment.

 

Emma, for the first time, looked the woman over. She guessed her to be in her late twenties maybe early thirties, with shoulder length hair that looked as if it originally had been blonde. Her body, which was taut and sinewy, looked like she should be an athlete of some sort. It was the face and the blue eyes that held all the mystery. If she plays poker no one knows what she’s holding…and that could be dangerous. Emma thought. 

 

It was Cay’s shuffling of her feet that brought Emma out of her musing. “Oh…I’m really not that hungry. I’m sure you need to get back to your own business. I’m feeling much better so you can leave.” The tone of her words were not unkind, but matter of fact.

 

This turn of events was not what Cay expected. “Hey, its no problem I can stay here as long as you need help.” She said smiling sweetly at the propped up woman.

 

Be careful, Emma, trust no one…ran through Emma’s mind just as she was about to accept Cay’s offer. “Thank you, but you should go. I’m not used to having anyone in the house with me.” Emma saw the look of hurt on the woman’s face and shrugged her shoulders. “I’m sorry.” she really wasn’t, but it was all she could think to say.

 

Cay’s hand went to her eyes and rubbed them while she tried to buy time. She had been so busy watching over Emma that she had no time to look around the house. She needed to stay…but how? She asked herself. “Emma, I’m not going to hurt you, if I wanted to do that I had plenty of opportunity to do so.” She said as she moved closer to the bed. “It would be awful if I left and you had a turn for the worse.” Reaching down she placed her hand on the woman’s forehead. “You feel like you might still have a bit of a fever.” Giving Emma her most sincere look, Cay continued. “Please, trust me, I only want to help.”

 

The words of her mother screamed in Emma’s head warning her not to trust this woman even if she seemed sincere. She sighed deeply, closing her eyes in an attempt to blot out everything. She knew what she had to do, “Please leave.” She finally said.

 

Cay couldn’t mask the disappointment she felt with those words. “Okay,” she reached for the tray and was stopped as Emma took the daisy before releasing the tray. “I’ll water the flowers on my way out.” She said, turning for the doorway until she stopped and turned her head to look at Emma. Such sorrow, she thought. “Do you want me to send Hannah back? I know you like and trust her.” Bitterness was evident in her voice.

 

This is such a strange feeling. Emma thought. I so want a friend, but I can’t, not yet. I need to know I can trust her. Then her mother’s voice began taunting her. Who’d want you for a friend, you’re worthless. She knew the words were right. “No, I’m fine by myself…if you don’t mind, I’m going to sleep now. Please lock the door on your way out.” She then turned her back to Cay.

 

Cay stood there for a minute, and then did as she was asked. Before leaving she disposed of the soup and rinsed out the bowl, plate and spoon then wiped off the tray and put it back in the cupboard. She brought the vase to the sink, sorted out the dead flowers and added water before placing it back on the table. Satisfied that everything was done she left the house locking the door behind her. I can always get back in if I want to. She thought as she turned up the driveway and back to Jones’ Landing.

 

* * * * *

10

 

Standing outside the house, Cay rapped loudly. It had been twenty-four hours since she had left Emma alone and for some inexplicable reason she felt concern for the woman. She waited several minutes before knocking once again harder nervousness causing her to shuffle back and forth on her feet as she waited for a response. Cay began to worry that the woman inside the house had once again took a turn for the worse and was in need of help. Turning her fist sideways she pounded on the door and called out. “Emma, its me, Cay O’Neill. Please open the door I’m worried about you.” This is stupid, I don’t need and invitation to go inside I’ll just do what I did yesterday.

 

Reaching in her pocket she took out the black leather container and began to unzip the fastener. Just as she began to insert the thin piece of metal into the lock she heard the inside door open. Quickly she put the instrument in a pocket before the door cracked open and Emma peeked out of the opening. “What do you want?” she said gruffly.

 

Cay looked the woman over; noticing she had the same nightgown on that she wore the previous day. Emma’s hair was dirty and matted and she definitely had a serious case of bed head. In spite of her disheveled look her pallor was much better and that alone gave Cay cause for hope that the woman was on the road to recovery.

 

“I was worried about you and wanted to make sure you were doing okay.” Cay said sincerely.

 

“Don’t worry yourself over me, I’m fine.” Emma said coldly as she started to shut the door.

 

Cay quickly pressed her hand against the door. “Please…may I look at your wound?”

 

Emma’s eyes seemed to be on fire. “I told you, I’m fine. Now, please, take your hand off my door!”

 

Reluctantly Cay removed her hand. “Sorry. I’ll be back tomorrow and check on you.” She said smiling at the woman. “Bye for now.” She then turned and began back down the driveway.

 

Emma slammed the door shut, locking it securely. Slowly she limped back into the kitchen confused by Cay’s actions. Why would she come here? No one has ever done that before.”

 

* * * * *

 

The next day Cay arrived at Emma’s house at the same time as the day before and knock loudly on the door while calling out, “Emma, its me Cay.”

 

Several minutes passed before Emma opened the door glaring at Cay. “I told you yesterday I’m fine! Why do you insist on bothering me?” Emma demanded coldly.

 

Emma actually looked much better. Her clothes were clean and she appeared to have taken a bath or shower. She took fact that Emma was irritated by the visit to be a good sign that the woman was on the mend.

 

“Is there any chance you will let me see how your leg is healing?” Cay asked softly.

 

“No.”

 

Cay smiled. “I see you are feeling better, Emma. I’m off now, but will return tomorrow at the same time.”

 

“Don’t bother!”

 

Waving at the woman, Cay smiled and headed away.

 

Closing the door securely, Emma leaned against it. “Why does that woman keep coming here to check on me?” She asked before retreating to the familiar rooms of her house.

 

* * * * *

 

On the third day Cay rapped at the door and once again called out. “Emma, its me, Cay.”

 

With each passing day the interval between her knocking and Emma answering grew closer and Cay took that as a good sign in gaining trust. Emma, still in her nightclothes, opened the door with what seemed to be a slight smile on her face.

 

“You again.” She said matter-of-factly. “I’m doing much better today. There certainly must be other things you can do besides come here.”

 

A playful grin crept over Cay’s face. She was dressed in running clothes and her breath was slightly labored from jogging the mile to Emma’s house. She was running slowly in place as she talked. “Actually there isn’t and I’m concerned about you.”

 

“Why?” Emma wanted to understand what this woman’s motives were.

 

Cocking her head, Cay’s blue eyes captured Emma. “Isn’t it evident to you, Emma? I care about you.”

 

Emma’s brow creased with a puzzled look on her face. She didn’t know what to say or how to act so she just stood there speechless. She only says she cares; you’re a stupid fool if you believe her. Her mother’s voice scolded.

 

“I’ll be back tomorrow.” Cay said touching Emma’s arm gently before jogging back down the drive.

 

Emma, still confused, watched the woman’s agile body run effortlessly. No one, not even my mother, cared about me. She thought as she returned to her house. How can this be? Why does she care about me, I’m not special at all? Her mother once again invaded her thoughts. You’re such a miserable person no one cares about you. Face it, you’re worthless, Emma.

 

* * * * *

 

Emma watched the clock as the time came and went when Cay should have knocked on her door. A sense of disappointment and loss filled her heart. Guess she really doesn’t care that much about me. She thought as she finished up the dishes while watching out the window. She woke up, dressed, had breakfast and began anticipating her visitor well before the sun rose. A strange feeling welled up in the pit of her stomach as she paced through the house. A friend, she thought. Maybe I have a friend.

 

Now, sitting at her table nursing a cup of tea, she felt a great sadness and loss. For a moment in time she had hope…hope that her lonely existence was gone. Her mother’s words screamed at her. If you let someone in they will hurt you, you can’t trust anyone but me. As always, her mother was right once again. Then her mind filled with fear. What if something has happened to her? I should do something, but what?

 

* * * * *

 

Cay’s green bug sped down the road towards Emma’s house. She had been in a heated debate with her employer and was now late. Damn him, I got to think of a way out of this. She thought, remembering some of the earlier conversation.

 

…“I understand your point of view, but I don’t think this is the right way to go about it…she is so mistrusting it is going to take a long time before I gain her trust. How much money are you willing to invest in this?”

 

“Now, you pay attention, Ms. O’Neill. I really don’t want your input on what I should do! What I want is for you to do the job I’m paying you very well for and I expect results. That bitch’s mother owed me and now she does! You are to see that it happens!” The man’s voice was low and ominous.

 

“I’m not sure I can gain her trust.”

 

“I’ve heard all about your special ways of gaining trust, I’m sure you can work your magic on this matter. Listen, I took a chance on you and you don’t want to disappoint me; that would be a very stupid move on your part. I’m sure you know my reputation…I take no prisoners. Now, get the job done!”

 

Cay pulled her ear away from the phone as the man hung up. She closed her eyes and sighed. “How can I do this?” she asked. There was no denying that she felt protective of the timid woman, but she had a job to do. The success of this job would redeem her reputation and lead to more jobs. “I’ll do it because my future depends on doing a complete job.” She said, while in the back of her mind was the niggling thought, at what cost.

 

Pressing on the brakes hard, the car skidded to a stop. Cay didn’t bother to close the door, her only thought was to see Emma and explain why she was late. Knocking on the door she heard rapid footsteps coming her way.

 

Emma heard the car coming down the drive and practically ran to the window to see if it was Cay. Her heart began to beat rapidly as she saw the woman exit her car. Going quickly to the door she opened it and couldn’t help responding to the infectious smile on Cay’s face.

 

“Hi, I’m sorry I’m late. I had a phone call that lasted longer than I expected. Will you forgive me?’

 

For the first time in forever Emma felt playful. “I’m not sure I can, Cay, you did cause me to worry you know.” She said in a very serious tone.

 

Cay’s eyes brightened; Emma actually said her name. “Did you?” she questioned as a glint appeared in her eyes. “Oh really, I guess you now know how I felt when I came to check on you and you took forever to answer the door.” she said softly.

 

Emma could feel her face becoming hot and flushed. She was blushing! To the best of her knowledge, she had never done that before. “I’m sorry.” She said sincerely.

 

A tender smile crossed Cay’s face. Obviously she was making some headway if Emma was embarrassed. Taking pity on her she changed the subject. “You look like you feel much better today. Any possibility of my looking at your wound today?”  She asked hopefully.

 

Emma hesitated for a moment before answering. “Its fine, really.” Emma said with a slight smile. She so wanted to invite the woman in and have a conversation with her. How I long for someone just to talk to. She thought as she observed the hurt look on Cay’s face.

 

The blue eyes searched Emma’s face for a bit of hope and found some. “Is there anything I can bring you? Do you have enough food?”

 

Uncharacteristically, Emma reached out and touched Cay’s hand. “I have everything I need. Thank you for caring.” She said as she quickly took her hand away.

 

“Okay, I’ll take your word…see you tomorrow.” Giving her best smile she turned towards her car, opened the door, then turned around and asked, “Any chance you would show me your garden tomorrow?”

 

Taken aback, Emma didn’t know how to respond. “Perhaps.”

 

“Fair enough.” Cay said before entering her car and backing out the drive.

 

* * * * *

 

Standing outside Emma’s door, Cay hesitated a moment and was surprised when the door opened. What she saw was Emma, looking radiant, in a calf length, light blue dress with her dark hair pulled back in a braid.

 

Swallowing hard at the sight, Cay spoke. “Hi, you look wonderful!” She exclaimed.

 

Emma smiled slightly then pulled her dress up past the wound. The bandage was gone and the wound was close to being completely healed. “See it’s all better.” She said sticking her leg out slightly.

 

“That’s amazing.” Cay said as her blue eyes took in the leg then worked their way up to the woman’s face. There was something different there, a glow that seemed to engulf her whole being.

 

For several awkward minutes the two women stood there at a loss for what to say or do.

 

“So, are you going to give me a tour of your gardens?” Cay said as she pointed towards the front of the house.

 

Emma, clearly out of her element, didn’t know what to say or how to act. She felt foolish by getting all dressed up and greeting Cay the way she did. “Um, well…I guess it would be okay if you looked at it on your own. You will have to be careful where you step, I have new plantings everywhere.” Apprehension was evident in her voice.

 

Cay smiled compassionately towards the woman. “Why don’t you accompany me?”

 

“No, no I can’t.” Emma said stumbling over her words.

 

“Sure you can, Emma. I promise I won’t bite.” Cay’s words were light and playful.

 

Something wonderful was happening to Emma, as she felt happy for the first time in over thirty-six years. A genuine smile crossed her face. “I would enjoy showing off my garden.” She said as she stepped tentatively out the door. “No one has ever wanted to see it before.” She remarked as the set out for her lake front yard.

 

The look on Emma’s face was something to behold as she spoke lovingly of her garden; it was clearly her pride and joy. Emma seemed to be one with nature moving freely amongst the plantings as if she belonged. “Over there, along the wildlife preserve, is a large planting of Rhododendrons and Laurel. In about a month you will see a sea of whites and reds.” Emma said, the awe evident in her voice. “By the first week in June my yard will be a sea of different shades of pinks, whites reds, greens and yellows.”

 

“I bet that’s beautiful. What do you have over there?” Cay asked pointing to a fenced in area.

 

“Oh, that’s my vegetable garden…the leaf lettuce is up as are the radishes, carrots and beets. I’m sure they are in need of attention. Later on there will be tomatoes, cucumbers, beans and maybe squash. Beyond that is a small barn, but I never go near it…it scares me.”

 

“I just love fresh vegetables, don’t you?” Cay’s face was soft and caring towards the older woman. She had noticed the note of fear in Emma’s voice as she spoke of the barn. Interesting, she thought.

 

Smiling, Emma turned around and looked at Cay. “You’ll have to come and have some then.” Her face then contoured into a serious look. “How long are you staying here?”

 

 “I’m not sure, really.” She replied softly.

 

“Oh.” Emma said sadly. She had made an attempt at friendship and it was now abundantly clear to her that it may not last. “If you don’t mind, I’m rather tired…I think I will go in and lie down.” She didn’t make eye contact afraid her disappointment would show.

 

Cay’s heart skipped a beat when she realized the woman might be sad if she left.  The sudden change in Emma’s demeanor concerned Cay. They were getting along so well and she was sure there was a friendship blooming along with the plants. “Emma, have I done something to upset you?”

 

“No.” Came the simple, yet unconvincing answer. She still avoided looking into Cay’s eyes concentrating instead on the emerging plants in her garden.

 

Bending her head so she could see Emma’s face, Cay saw fear in the woman’s eyes. “I’m not going to do anything to hurt you, Emma. Please tell me what the problem is.” She implored. Cay was mystified by her feelings of concern for the woman; for some unknown reason it was extremely important to her that she hadn’t hurt the woman in anyway.

 

Finally Emma lifted her head and looked at Cay. “I can’t…I just can’t.”

 

“Will you tell me why so I can understand? Please.”

 

Searching Cay’s face and eyes, Emma saw only concern and caring. Can I take a chance on her? “It’s because of my mother.” She said hesitantly. “She always told me not to trust anyone…”

 

Cay’s face furled, “She was wrong, Emma.” She said gently. “You can trust me…I’ll never hurt you or betray you.” Cay said, although she knew her words were a lie.

 

“Can I?”

 

Emma was rewarded with a brilliant smile. “Yes, you can. Now, why don’t you go nap, and I will come back tomorrow and take you out to lunch. Would you like that?” Cay was hoping for a positive response, as it would be her chance to complete the job.

 

It had been a long time since Emma felt happy enough to smile outright, but now a sense of happiness was creeping into her being. “Out to lunch? You mean like a restaurant? I’m not sure I can do that.” Emma said timidly.

 

Suddenly, Cay began to understand exactly what the woman next to her had gone through in her life. She knew about the fire and the hospitals, but now understood how she lived her life. In total fear of disappointing her mother! She must have been a horrible woman. Cay thought.

 

Touching Emma’s arm lightly, Cay smiled. “How about I put together a picnic basket, rent a boat and go out to that island out there.” She said pointing to a very small landmass in the lake.

A genuine laugh came from Emma. “We can’t picnic there, it is more of a bog than an island and it is filled with snakes.”

 

“Snakes? How can that be? Are they poisonous?” Cay asked finding it hard to believe.

 

“Yes, they were trapped there when the lake was created.”

 

Cay joined in the laughter. “So much for that idea.”

 

Emma touched the hand still on her arm. “Thank you.”

 

“For what?” Cay asked.

 

“I can’t remember the last time I laughed.” Emma said as she lowered her head again. “I’ve never had a friend.”

 

Cay reached out and lifted Emma’s face. “You have one now.” She said as her words stabbed her in the heart. “Why don’t we have the picnic right here?”

 

“I would like that.” Emma tried to stifle a yawn. “I’m sorry, I really need to lie down.”

 

“No problem.” Cay said smiling. “I will be back tomorrow with a basket full of yummies.” She said as they both walked back towards her car.

 

“I’ll look forward to it.” Emma was smiling as she stood next to the green car.

 

“Me too.” Cay got in her car and wound down the window. “See you tomorrow…bye.” She waved goodbye as she moved her car towards the road.

 

Emma stood there, smiling, as the car disappeared from view. Then her mother’s words screamed in her mind. You foolish, worthless girl, no one wants to be your friend. They all have motives, Emma! You’re so stupid! “No! You’re wrong, Mother, she is my friend!” She said fearfully to the voice that was taunting her. “I’ll not listen to you anymore!”

 

A great sense of tiredness overcame the woman as she went into her home. I won’t allow you to do this to me anymore, Mother.

 

* * * * *

11

 

That night Cay tossed and turned punching the pillow repeatedly trying to eliminate the irritating bump she felt. At first it was too hot in the cabin so she opened a window only to find she needed to pull the blanket up close around her shoulders. The more she was determined to fall asleep the more awake she became. The face of Emma Sanders kept floating to the top of her consciousness as Cay realized she despised herself for what she was about to do to the woman. What she didn’t understand was why this was upsetting her to this extent. In the past she had done jobs and used people on a much bigger basis than this, yet now, she felt ashamed. Never before had she allowed herself to care about a target…it was get in, get out leaving all personal feelings locked away. The plan for Emma Sanders was now in full motion and that terrified her. Why?

 

Getting up, she paced the wooden floor trying to make sense of her feelings. Usually she was hard and professional, but for some reason, Emma Sanders had gotten to her. The question was why did she feel the need to protect the timid woman. She had encountered others just as needy and had no problem cutting them down when it was necessary. Can I do that to Emma?

 

“Maybe I’ve lost my edge.” She said to herself. She remembered her last case, the one that destroyed her reputation, could that be the reason for my apprehension now? She wondered. Maybe, she thought as she raised her eyebrows and curled her lips.

 

The case had felt wrong from the start…her little voice kept telling her not to take the job, but she ignored the warnings and red flags that kept finding their way into her consciousness. Willable Industries had hired her to track and connect with, Jack Salmon, the head of research and development, whom they suspected of selling prototypes of their latest inventions. It was an easy enough case, one that she had done hundreds of times in the past, yet it gave Cay pause and that was unsettling to her.

 

She arrived at the corporate headquarters under the guise of a newly transferred scientist. Jack Salmon had quite a reputation among his fellow workers as narcissistic womanizer who was power hungry. He had worked his way up the corporate ladder stepping on anyone that got in his way for he was good at what he did and didn’t mind telling others. With this knowledge, Cay was confident she could gain his confidence and then compel him to include her in his plans. To her, completing the job was all that mattered and she would do whatever it took to accomplish her task. She did draw the line, however, at using sex as a tool; nothing was worth compromising her body in that way. When Salmon first came on to her she readily accepted his advances knowing if she withheld sex he would give into her demands to be included in his lucrative ventures. As their relationship grew hotter there was something in the back of her mind screaming to get out while she could. She ignored the warnings; after all she never made mistakes, she was the best.

 

Cay was at the top of her game and with that came an air of cockiness and infallibility. Never in her wildest dreams did she think she could be taken down…never. Then it happened and her whole world collapsed around her. Jack Salmon was no fool and had known who she was and why she was there from the start. When it became evident to him that Cay would not have sex with him he put in place an elaborate plan to look as though she was the traitor. Hundreds of thousands of dollars were traced to an account in her name originating from a competitors account. An anonymous letter was sent to the CIO of Willable outlining the corporate sabotage that led to Cay’s who supposedly sold out her employers trying to pin the blame on Salmon.

 

Eventually, Cay, because of her meticulous notes and files, was able to prove her innocence.  But, it was too late to salvage her reputation for the word had gone out in the industrial and corporate community that Cay O’Neill could no longer be trusted. Her career for all intents and purposes was over as soon as the John Salmon presented evidence that exposed Cay as a traitor. She had forgotten the number one rule; never underestimate your target.

 

For a year she lowered herself to follow insurance fraud suspects or infidelity cases for an investigation firm known as the sleaziest in the area. She was forced to sell her BMW convertible, give up her expensive apartment and the lifestyle she was accustomed. She was disgraced and considered poison until a man, who refused to give his name until they met, contacted her.

 

That brought her to this valley and her latest quest, Emma Sanders. Her job was simple really…gain Emma’s trust and then bring her to her employer. In the past, what happened after that was of little consequence to her as long as she got paid. Now, she feared for Emma and that was quite disconcerting. Her employer was evil personified; Emma would be in serious trouble once Cay handed her over. That’s never bothered me before. She thought while finishing up a beer. And, it can’t now! My life depends on it! What an idiot I am to have agreed to work for that man in the first place. If I don’t come through he will kill me, I’m sure and if I hand Emma over he will kill her. Shit!

 

Crawling back in bed, Cay looked at the bedside clock, calculating how long before she would see Emma again. “Ten hours, then I will do what I must.” She said to herself as she began to doze off. “Forgive me”, were her last words before a night of restless sleep began.

 

* * * * *

 

Emma opened her eyes and stared at the ceiling. Today her new friend was coming over to have a picnic lunch. She smiled, then closed her eyes realizing for the first time in too many years she was happy. Swinging her legs out of the bed she headed for the bathroom and a nice long bath to start the day.

 

Scurrying around the house, Emma felt a happiness she had never known. I have a friend! She thought as she straightened up the kitchen then began dusting the front room. Finishing up her chores she looked at the clock and was dismayed when she saw there were still two hours to go before Cay arrived. Picking up an old quilt her grandmother made, she headed outside to find the perfect spot for the picnic. As soon as she walked down the stairs to the yard, Cay saw her yard in a new light, as a place for a picnic. Scanning the area she decided on a spot under a the hundred year old oak tree her great- great grandfather planted. Perfect, she thought as she spread the quilt on the ground then felt for any twigs or rocks that might be hiding underneath.

 

The day was a glorious, warm spring day. The sky was a bright clear blue meaning there would be no rain to spoil the day. Once she was satisfied with the placement of the quilt, Emma looked at her surroundings noticing things she had never seen before. Although the yard was well taken care of, she could now see the house needed a touch up with paint around the windows and the porch. A momentary sense of fear coursed through her body as she considered hiring someone to paint. I will do the painting myself. She thought just as she heard the familiar sound of Cay’s car coming up her driveway. Standing up she waved at her friend while walking towards the car.

 

“Let me help carry something.” Emma said as Cay emerged from the car. “I set out a quilt for us on the lawn.”

 

Cay smiled broadly at the woman. “Great that is the one thing I forgot.” Reaching inside her car she pulled out a picnic basket and cooler. “Here, can you carry this?” She said handing the cooler over to Emma.

 

Emma beamed as she took the cooler then walked silently next to Cay towards the waiting blanket.

 

Taking the cooler from Emma, Cay motioned towards the ground. “Now you sit yourself down and I will spread a fest worthy of a queen.” Watching Emma comply, Cay began to take items out of the basket and lay them neatly on the quilt.

 

“I hope you’re hungry.” Cay said happily as she started placing salads, sandwiches and deserts on the blanket. “I didn’t know what you like to drink so I brought lots of different things. We have soda, tea, water, beer, wine coolers and lemonade.” She said proudly. Emma’s astonished face told her she had gone overboard. “Too much?”

 

Shaking her head, Emma began to laugh. “Just a bit, but you meant well.” Taking a plate, she began to fill it full of food.

 

Cay’s eyes turned into saucers when she saw how much food Emma took. Guess I didn’t overestimate after all. She thought. “What would you like to drink?”

 

Emma finished chewing the bite of chicken salad. “Tea would be nice, thank you.”

 

Handing over the cold bottle of tea, Cay was perplexed by the look on Emma’s face. “What’s the matter?”

 

Casting her eyes downward, Emma hesitated before answering. “I…I’ve never had tea like this before.” Clearing her throat, she continued. “My mother would buy them for herself, but she told me I wasn’t allowed to have any.” She said, embarrassed by the revelation.

 

“Hey, you want to talk about it? I’m a good listener.” Cay asked sympathetically. Noticing Emma still had her head down, she changed tactics. “Why don’t I tell you about me first?”

 

Lifting her head, Emma smiled. “I would like that.”

 

“Good, why don’t you keep eating and I will bore you to death with the story of my life.”

 

“I doubt your life is boring, Cay.” Emma remarked as her appetite returned and she began to dig in once again. “Please tell me everything.”

 

“Okay. I guess I should begin with I’m the last of nine kids.”

 

“Nine! I didn’t know anyone had that many kids anymore.” Emma said as she started on a turkey sandwich.

 

“Well, my mother did…she wanted a girl and wasn’t stopping until she had one.” Cay shrugged her shoulders. “Of course, my dad was disappointed since he was hoping for a complete team.”

 

Emma scrunched her eyebrows together not understanding what Cay was speaking of. “Complete team?”

 

“A baseball team.” Cay replied, noticing the confused look on the woman’s face. “You need nine players and his ninth child was a girl.”

 

“You can’t play baseball?” Emma asked still not sure of the conversation. “I don’t know anything about baseball…sorry.”

 

Cay laughed, “No problem. Anyway, my mother was reading a story that my brother had for school. It was called ‘The Cay’ and she thought if she had a girl that is what she would call her. So, here I am named after an coral island.” Laughing, Cay winked at Emma. “Some days I’m soft like sand and other days I’m razor sharp like coral. An apt name I think.” Her eyes scanned the lake hoping Emma wouldn’t see her sadness.

 

Continuing, she spoke again. “At any rate, my dad is a police officer and so are four of my brothers, one is a lawyer and three are firemen. A real family affair; I even have uncles in high police positions.” She hesitated for a moment; talking about her life was harder than she thought it would be. “I, of course, was expected to join the force and I did, but it didn’t last. I had a really hard time understanding why the criminals had all the rights while the cops had to go by the book. It seemed as though I was constantly watching my back hoping no one would accuse me of brutality. Not the way I wanted to live my life so I quit and went into private investigation.”

 

Emma was fascinated by Cay’s revelations. “Please continue.”

 

“I’m not boring you?”

 

“No, not at all.” Emma said smiling with her face full of wonder.

 

“Alright then, but don’t forget it will be your turn when I’m done.” Cay reminded the woman.

 

“My brother, Sean, he’s the lawyer, Put me in contact with a company that was experiencing problems with confidential information finding its way to competitors. Since I was new in the business they were leery of hiring me so I made them a deal they couldn’t refuse…I offered to do the job free less expenses. To make a long story short, I was able to uncover the names of the two employees who were making a very good living selling secrets. Soon after that the word got around and I never lacked work.” A look of sadness came across her face. “I had the best reputation in the field until I came across someone who was better and turned the tables on me.” Cay became very quiet and still. “I lost everything.” She finally whispered.

 

Emma listened to the pain in her new friend’s voice and felt sympathy as she cautiously reached across and touched Cay’s hand. “Not everything, Cay.”

 

Cay looked into the hazel eyes. “No, not everything, but what was most important to me at the time. I lived through it and here I am today.” She said mustering a smile.

 

“What do you do now? If you don’t mind my asking.” Emma asked taking the largest piece of apple pie.

 

Shaking her head Cay laughed, “Where do you put all that food? I thought I brought too much.”

 

“It’s very good. I thought you didn’t cook.” Emma said frowning, as she thought that Cay might have lied to her.

 

“I can’t believe you thought I did all this. I bought it from Hannah; she made some of the stuff special. Do you like it?”

 

“Oh, yes it’s marvelous.” She said as she finished off the pie. “So, what are you doing now…here?”

 

Damn, I thought I distracted her…now what do I say? Cay thought as she tried to put together a plausible story. Giving Emma her most sincere look she began to speak. “Well, I did some divorce work and insurance fraud, but it wasn’t what I wanted to do. I came here to get away for a bit and try my hand a writing a book about my investigating experiences.” Shrugging her shoulders she said, “That’s about it. Now, what about you?”

 

Emma sat quietly as she tried to decide what and how to share her life with Cay. The woman sitting on her quilt was a stranger by all standards, yet she seemed genuinely concerned about Emma’s welfare. Her mother’s voice began taunting her until Emma closed her eyes and concentrated on making the nagging influence disappear. Looking back across at Cay, she saw nothing but kindness and compassion. Yes, I can trust her. She thought. Yes, I can.

 

Cay waited patiently for Emma to speak. She could see that the woman was having some sort of dilemma with herself. Maybe I’m pushing her too much…if she tells me nothing then we both can stay alive longer. The thought sent pangs of regret through her mind and heart. For someone who is suppose to be hard as nails I’m am turning into a big ball of mush. She was brought out of her contemplation when Emma began to speak.

 

“I remember the house I was born in…it was white with green shutters, a large front porch and a big oak tree just like this one.” She looked up at the branches above her head before continuing. “Although I think the house seemed, to my young mind, to be enormous in reality it probably was even bigger. I remember there being three stories and a weather vane sitting on top of the tallest peak of the house; the kids all had their own bedrooms…my brother Bobby had a room on the third floor.” Closing her eyes she could still hear his pleas to be saved, the words echoing in her mind and always haunting her… Mommy, Mommy, help me. “Of course, it’s gone now so I’ll never be able to find out exactly how big it really was.” Emma’s face held no expression as she spoke. “I remember my father as a giant man who always smelled like the pipe he smoked. Every night he would come home and I would run into his arms and he would lift me up in the air before hugging me close.” Her hand gently stroked her cheek. “I remember how soft his beard was against my face. It reminded me of my cat, Molly’s, soft fur.” She said absentmindedly. “How I miss him.” She said with a deep sadness in her voice.

 

“My grandparents lived with us…I remember how they always seemed so much in love. I think I was their favorite.” She wiped away and errant tear. “My grandmother always smelled of lavender when she didn’t smell like whatever she was cooking. She let me help her with dinner…I remember making biscuits one night and everyone said how good they were. Grandpa made a big fuss over them and that made me so very happy.” Emma seemed lost in her memories not aware of her surroundings or Cay’s presence.

 

“I had two brothers, Bobby and Jimmy…they always picked on me because I was the smallest and youngest, but they would look out for me and make sure I was always safe. I can still see Jimmy’s sweet trusting smile…he had blonde hair; everyone else was dark. I remember my mother saying the stork must have gotten the order mixed up. I don’t remember much about Bobby except…” Emma’s face became drawn, as she seemed to be reliving a tragic event. “They all died in a fire.” She said in a matter of fact tone as if she were watching the events, but not involved. “My mother saved me and ended up an invalid. She would always tell me if it wasn’t for her I would be dead and I should be more grateful. Any time I went against her will she would send me to a psychiatric hospital until I learned how to act properly.”

 

Emma began to rub her wrist. “I was only a little girl, but they would tie me down and drug me so I would be still. After a while I learned that if I stayed very quiet and made myself very small I wouldn’t be tied down. After years of confinement and isolation I finally realized if I just did the same thing at home my mother would let me stay.” She shook her head. “I figured out how to play the game to survive from the wrath of my mother. My mother, can you believe a child would have to plot against its own mother? When I was eighteen I moved here permanently only to learn the most important lesson of all…never trust anyone.”

 

“Emma, you don’t trust anyone? Isn’t that a lonely existence?” Cay asked. Her heart was bleeding for this poor woman sharing a picnic with her.

 

“Lonely? Maybe, but it was how I survived this long.” She said sadly. “After I lived here for two years we had a huge storm that did extensive damage to the property. My mother hired the son of a family with a house on the lake to do the clean up. He was the first person in my life, since my father that made me feel special. Eric Borland was his name.”

 

Cay froze when Emma spoke the name. “Did you spend a lot of time with him, Emma…was he your first boyfriend?” She asked then held her breath for the answer.

 

Emma bowed her head then spoke so low Cay had to strain to hear her response. “I’d rather not talk about him.”

 

“Okay, no problem.” Cay responded. After a few awkward moments Cay asked another question. “I understand you own quite a bit of the property around the lake, Emma. Do you manage it all yourself? I imagine that is a big job.”

 

Thankful for the change of topics, Emma smiled. “My mother made sure I was well prepared to take charge by making sure I knew all about the business. She didn’t trust management companies or lawyers for that matter.” Forming her words before she said them she paused. “I guess in answer to your question, yes I manage it, but the year before Mother passed she did hire a management firm. It is too big for just me to manage.”

 

Cay retrieved another beer from the cooler before finishing off her sandwich. “Would you like more to drink or eat?” she asked of her picnic partner.

 

“No, I’ve had enough.” Emma said as she patted her belly. “This certainly has turned into a wonderful day.”

 

“Not a cloud in the sky and warm…what more could we ask for? I have an idea…why don’t I rent a boat and we can take a leisurely ride around the lake. You could tell me about the lake and it’s history.” Cay’s voice was upbeat and happy. “What do you say, Emma, are you up for an adventure?”

 

Emma couldn’t help but grin at the goofy look on Cay’s face. She reminded her of a child full of excitement and curiosity. “Now why would you rent a boat when I have a perfectly good one.”

 

“You do? I didn’t see a boat house, where do you keep it?” Cay’s eyes searched the lake around the property for a boat.

 

Emma let out a hearty laugh. “It is probably right next to your cabin. I store it at the landing and they keep it maintained for me.”

 

Cay was amazed! The thought of Emma Sanders skimming across the lake in a speedboat was never a consideration. “What do you use the boat for?” she asked unable to keep the shock from her voice.

 

Once again Emma laughed. “For fishing and sometimes I go by the properties to check on their condition. I’ve shocked you, why?”

 

Cay’s face turned bright red. “Well…you see…it never occurred to me that you would be out on the lake in a speedboat.”

 

“Who said anything about a speedboat?” Cay quipped. “It is a small fiberglass boat with a thirty-five horse power motor with an additional electric one for fishing among the weeds. It’s just perfect for me. Do you fish, Cay?”

 

“Yes. It just occurred to me that I’ve been an idiot! I’m sorry for being so nosey and asking you so many questions earlier. You must think I’m quite the busybody.” Cay cast her eyes downward. “I’m truly sorry.”

 

Emma watched her new friend’s embarrassment and felt responsible. After all she did tell me everything about herself…or did she? “Cay, do you have a boyfriend?”

 

Cay didn’t know where this question was leading and decided to answer honestly. “No, not at the moment.”

 

Emma’s brow furled. “A pretty young woman like yourself without a special someone…I find that hard to believe.”

 

“Well, its true. I’ve never found anyone I wanted to share my life or my body with.” She said shrugging her shoulders and looking away. “I lived a life in the shadows…that makes it hard to form close relationships.”

 

“Surely, you have lots of friends…don’t you?” Emma was puzzled by the answers Cay was giving.

 

Shaking her head, Cay said, “Not really. I have my family, but no real friends.” Then she smiled. “Until now.” Cay surprised herself when she realized the truth her words held.

 

All of a sudden the past came tumbling back into Emma’s consciousness and the frightening events were too much to hold inside any longer. Quietly, and unexpectedly she began to speak as her hazel eyes searched Cay’s face. “No, he wasn’t my boyfriend! Remember I pointed out the barn?”

 

Cay shook her head astounded by the turn of events.

 

Emma’s voice began to quiver. “That’s where he raped me over and over again until my mother, hearing my cries, rolled her wheelchair in there.” Emma closed her eyes to fight back the tears that threatened to flow. “She screamed and went after him with the rake she found propped up against a post. He just snickered and called her an ugly crippled pig as he stood up and casually zipped his pants.

 

There was no way she could get at him and move her wheelchair, but that didn’t stop her from shaking the rake and screaming obscenities. “You god damn piece of shit you’ll pay for this. I’ll see to it that you never see the light of day again.”

 

He only leered at her and said, “You an who else, bitch? There’s no way you can touch me.”

 

I was so overcome with shame I couldn’t move until he turned around and told me, I’ll be back to finish the job. I lunged at him scratching at his face, but he was bigger and stronger and pushed me away after slapping me across the face.

 

I can still hear his laughter as he nonchalantly left the barn…it was so full of evil. My mother screamed at me to call the sheriff.” Emma rubbed her forehead as if she had a headache. “Once the sheriff came and saw the condition I was in he went to the Borland home and arrested Eric over the loud protests of his father. From what I gathered at the time the rest of his family had left after the storm. We were all in the police station; my mother, Eric’s father and me as the sheriff fingerprint Eric. His father pushed me out of the way and wheeled my mother over to the other side of the room. When she came back she told me to drop all the charges. I had no choice if I didn’t want to be committed again.” The tears began to course down her cheeks. “Why would she do that? Make me let that pervert go?” She asked while trying to wipe tears away.

 

Cay handed her a napkin. “Here.” She said as she moved closer and put her arm around Emma. “Go ahead and cry, Emma, it will help release the demons.” Soon she was rocking Emma gently as the tortured woman sobbed uncontrollably.

 

Trying desperately to speak through her tears, Emma blurted out, “She made me give my baby away! How could she do that? She wouldn’t even let me see it or know if it was a boy or girl. My own mother did that to me! She said I would never be a good mother I was too sick in the head. I wasn’t!” She screamed as she gave into the tears completely. “I wasn’t.”

 

Pushing away from Cay and standing up to create more space between them, Emma smiled as she wiped away her tears. “Thank you. Other than Hannah, consoling me at my mother’s funeral, no one has ever cared how I feel.”

 

“Anytime, Emma.” Cay said sincerely as she bent over to collect the picnic items and put them back in the basket. “Its never a good idea to carry around pain and guilt by yourself…it needs to be shared to lighten the burden.” Cay looked up into the tear stained face. “That’s what friends are for.”

 

Emma cocked her head and smiled. “Do you mind if I go out on the dock for a moment?”

 

“Not at all.” Cay replied. She watched Emma straighten her back as her long strides took her towards the dock. Sighing deeply, she shook her head; amazed by the strength it must have taken for Emma to survive everything for so many years. “Now, what will I do? How can I undo everything?” She looked out towards the lake and Emma standing on the dock. Tears began to flow down her cheeks. Oh, Emma, what have I done?

 

Part Two

 

 

* * * * *

12

 

Waking early, Cay put on her shorts, tank top and running shoes and headed out of her cabin, up the hill and onto the road. She needed to think and running would help her once she was away from the surroundings of the lake. Ever since hearing Emma’s revelations about her life’s experiences, Cay knew there would be no way she could continue on the path she set.  Somehow she would have to think of a way to convince her employer that pursuing Emma Sanders would be unwise.

 

Standing beside a bench, she did some light stretching before she began a slow jog down the now familiar highway. Finally she hit her top speed as her mind clicked through all the various scenarios and their outcomes realizing there would be no easy answers. Beating herself up for taking the job wouldn’t do her any good; she needed to come up with a solid plan of attack. Finally, as she arrived at the point to turn around, she knew what needed to be done. She would never convince her employer to stop his quest for revenge; once she told him she would no longer help in his endeavors she was certain he would kill her then go after Emma himself. She would have to find a way to protect Emma…to keep her safe from harm.

 

“Now I just need to figure out how to do that and not raise her suspicions.” She said as she reached Jones’ Landing. Walking around in a large circle to cool down and plan a strategy, she didn’t notice the person staring at her. “There’s got to be a way!”

 

“A way? Are you lost Cay?” Emma asked softly as she came up to the woman.

 

A radiant smile crossed Cay’s face. “Emma, I didn’t see you there. How are you doing today?”

 

Emma couldn’t help but smile back. “Good, its shopping day…I go every Thursday.” She said cocking her head in question. “So, are you lost, Cay? Can I help you find a way?”

 

Laughing, Cay smiled broadly. Fate seemed to be showing her a way to solve her dilemma. “I’m not lost, Emma, I just need to figure out how I can keep staying here in the cabins. My funds are dwindling.” She patted her friend’s hand as she saw her frown. “Not to worry, I will find a way.” Looking at the full shopping cart, Cay saw an opportunity, “Are you finished with your shopping? I can give you a lift home if you’d like.”

 

“That would be nice.” Emma responded.

 

“Great! Will you give me a minute to change out of these sweaty clothes? I’m sure I must reek!” Cay said with a wink.

 

“Not really.” Emma said, not quite grasping the derisive intonations. Noticing the playful look on Cay’s face she realized it was a joke. “Oh,” she said laughing, “You’re joking.” A slight tinge of red covered her face.

 

“Yes, I was. Why don’t you come along with me to my cabin while I change?” She asked while motioning towards her present residence.

 

Old fears coursed through all of Emma’s being. How can I go into a stranger’s house? What if she tries to hurt me or even kill me? She thought as panic filled her face. “I…I’m not sure.” She said weakly. You’re so stupid, Emma, don’t you see that woman wants your money! Her mother’s voice ridiculed her once again.

 

Cay was puzzled by the radical change in Emma’s demeanor. “Have I done something?” she asked.

 

Emma’s mind was screaming to run and hide, but in her heart she knew she had nothing to fear. Trust and have faith. Taking a deep breath, she smiled. “No, not at all, Cay…old fears are hard to die.” She said softly. “Which cabin is yours?” She asked, heading down the hill with her grocery cart in tow towards the row of lakeside cabins.

 

Following close behind, Cay said, “Over there.” as she pointed to the last one. “See my car?”

 

Opening the door, Cay suddenly felt embarrassed. “Not only can’t I cook, but I’m not much of a housekeeper either.” She said looking over the disarray of the cabin. After letting Emma enter she quickly went around picking up clothes and empty food containers.

 

Emma laughed at the sight of the, up until now, confidant woman trying to clean up the messy room. “Please stop, it looks lived in. Why don’t you go and change, I do have refrigerator items I need to get home.”

 

Cay unceremoniously dropped the load of clothes into a chair. “You’re right, it does look lived in.” She said laughingly as she headed for the bedroom area. “Be right back.”

 

Looking around the untidy area, Emma found a chair to sit in and began straightening up the table in front of her. Standing up she picked up some dirty dishes, took them to the kitchen sink, and looked around for dish soap. Finding the green liquid she poured some over the dirty dishes and began running the hot water. Her mind drifted back to Cay’s saying her funds were dwindling and her mother’s warning. I can put her to a test and see if Mother is right. I will offer to give Cay some money if she takes it I’ll know she can’t be trusted. A door closing brought her out of her musings.

 

Cay came into the large room and saw Emma standing in front of the sink as steam from the hot water wafted up causing the window to cloud over. “Emma, are you planning on doing the dishes?”

 

Turning towards the voice, Emma smiled. “I thought I could help out a bit while you were changing. It will only take a moment.”

 

 

“I have a better idea. Why don’t we let those soak, they probably need at least a day, and we get those groceries back to your house?” Cay said brightly.

 

“I really don’t mind.” Emma offered.

 

“I know, but you do have frozen food, remember. Come on, let’s go.” Then she took hold of the cart and opened the door. Gesturing to the outside world, “After you,” she said with a flourish of her hand and arm.

 

* * * * *

 

Cay carried the shopping cart into Emma’s house and placed it on the spotless linoleum floor. She then started pulling the various bags out and transferred them on to the counter. “Do you want me to put these away for you, Emma?” she called out.

 

From her bedroom, where she was changing her shoes, Emma responded, “No, I will as soon as I come out…” she said as she left the bedroom. “You don’t know where everything goes.” She continued as she walked out into the kitchen. “Why don’t you help me?”

 

Cay turned to see her new friend, who had changed from a calf length purple dress into her pants and oversized shirt, smiling. “Sounds good to me? Looks like you will be doing some gardening today.”

 

Emma began to take various items out of the bags. “This goes in the refrigerator…oh, and so does the butter.” She put the box of oatmeal and loaf of bread away as Cay came up beside her. “If you can put these in the pantry for me we should be all done.” She said handing the woman several canned items.

 

“All done.” Cay smiled. “I guess I’ll let you get on with your chores.” She said as she made her way to the door.

 

“Cay,” Emma said hesitantly. “If you need money I will give you some.”

 

The shock was evident as Cay felt the hot flush of embarrassment cover her face. This was the last thing she expected from her friend and didn’t know how to respond or act. Clearly, Emma, was trying to help her out, but this was not they way.

 

“I’ve insulted you, I’m sorry.” Emma said, shrinking away from Cay and bowing her head.

 

Instantly Cay was by her side. “No…no you haven’t, its just I…I can’t take your money, Emma. I will work something out or I’ll go back home.” She said quietly.

 

“Go home? You would go home?” Emma could feel her heart sink.

 

“Not right away. Let’s not worry about that now.” Cay said with a smile. Want to go fishing later this afternoon? I heard the some of the guys at Hannah’s that the fish are starting to bite.” She bent her head sideways so she could see Emma’s face. “I’ll buy the worms.”

 

As hard as she tired, Emma couldn’t resist smiling. “Considering your fortunes, maybe I should buy the worms.”

 

“Emma, you should smile more often, you have a lovely smile…did you know that?”

 

The blush on Emma’s face was evident. “No, no one has ever told me that.” She said as her eyes met Cay’s. “What time do you want to go fishing?”

 

“I’ll pick you up on your dock about four if that’s okay.” Her voice was light and happy.

 

“Perfect, you can use my boat. Just tell Zachariah and he’ll take care of everything.”

 

Opening the door, Cay turned back and smiled. “See you later.” Once outside she slid into her car and started the motor. Glancing back at the house, Cay asked herself, I need time to think, but time is running short. Something needs to be done soon.

 

* * * * *

 

From her kitchen window, Emma watched Cay get into her car and look back at the house. You’re a strange one Cay O’Neill, but you wouldn’t take my money; that’s a plus for you. I wonder? She thought before gathering her gloves to go work in the garden. “Bet I find a few worms out there.” She said laughing all the way out to the garden.

 

Standing in her garden, Emma saw all the newly emerging plants fighting their way up through the soil to feel the warmth of the sun and thirst for the rain. Kneeling down, she tenderly held a soft green leaf feeling the life coursing through the veins. Touching the soft soil she closed her eyes and began to slow her breathing down as she became one with the earth. Here in her garden is where Emma felt alive; where all her senses came alive and she knew she belonged.

 

Deep in her meditation, Emma didn’t notice Cay’s kayak skim silently across the water in front of her home. Nor did she see the vessel positioned amongst the bulrushes close to the wildlife preserve. Neither woman taking notice of the other, each seeking answers to questions without answers.

 

Cay sat amongst the reeds, listening to the singing birds, wishing she could go back a month. Emma Sanders was an innocent in any vendetta against her mother and now, because of Cay’s actions, was in danger. Before she could call and refuse to continue in the job she needed to be sure Emma would be protected. The question was how to get Emma out of her house and away from the danger that was sure to come her way.

 

Looking up at the cloudless sky she sighed. “Nothing will happen to you, my friend.” Closing her eyes she wondered; did I need you as a friend as much as you needed me? “Probably.” She said out loud. Grabbing the paddle she exploded out of the reeds and sprinted full speed towards the landing.

 

Emma’s mind was at peace, one with her surroundings until the slapping of water brought Emma abruptly out of her tranquil state. Looking towards the water she saw a figure in a kayak gliding quickly along the water. Shaking her head she spoke, “summer will soon be upon us!”

 

Standing up, she looked at her house, contemplating how much her life had changed over the last weeks. A friend, she had a friend! The thought made her feel happy, yet sad with the thought of Cay leaving. Looking back towards the lake, she smiled as she considered the fishing outing with her new friend. “Guess I better find some worms.” She said as she took her trowel and headed for the garden.

 

The soil was rich with loom making it a perfect home for big, fat red worms. ‘The perfect kind for fishing.” Emma said kneeling in her garden as she carefully pulled one out of the earth. In no time at all she had a soup can filled with the dark soil and worms. Putting a plastic cover over the can she gently poked holes in the top with one of her garden tools.

 

* * * * *

 

Emma could hear the familiar pitch of her motor before she saw the boat and her new friend come into view. She felt giddy with the anticipation of sharing her favorite fishing sites with another human being. This was a new adventure and, for Emma, completely out of character; in her heart she felt the rightness of connecting with her new friend. Crouching down she grabbed the small craft as it slid in next to the dock. “You did that like you’ve done it before, Cay” she commented.

 

“Oh, I’ve done it a time or two before. I see you’re ready to go.” The casual response came.

 

“I packed us some drinks and sandwiches for later on, just in case the fish are biting so well we don’t want to leave.” Emma said tentatively until she saw the smile on her friend’s face. Holding up the silver can she waved it in the air, “Oh and I have the worms too, right out of my garden.” She said as she handed her belongings along with the can of worms to Cay.

 

Raising her hand upward, Cay offered it Emma. “Here, let me help you.” Emma took her hand, stepped into the boat and took a seat. “You’re sitting there?” Cay’s eyes grew wide. “I don’t know any of the places to go, I can’t drive it’s your boat.”

 

Emma laughed long and hard. “Of course you can. You should see your face! Don’t panic I will tell you all my secret fishing holes.”

 

Cay laughed realizing how silly she must have sounded. “Okay, then let's get going…which way?” She asked as she slowly navigated the boat away from the dock.

 

As they moved along the water at a slow pace, Emma pointed out various sites along the lake including Snake Island the spot where Cay wanted to picnic.

 

“Up close I can see why it wouldn’t make a very good landing area. Are there really snakes there?

 

“Oh yes.” Emma replied smiling as she felt a gentle breeze cross her face.

 

“Why hasn’t anyone removed them? Aren’t they dangerous to unsuspecting boaters who might stop there?”

 

“Actually there was an effort to capture the snakes and relocate them, but they couldn’t find them all and decided to just leave nature to itself. There are signs warning of the danger.” Emma pointed down the lake to a small cove. “Head down there and then we’ll stop.”

 

They sat in companionable silence as each woman cast her line into the water. The afternoon was slightly overcast, but the wind blew warm in promise of the summer soon to come. The pronouncement of fish biting seemed to be exaggerated, as they hadn’t a nibble in the hour they had been fishing.

 

“Cay.” Emma said hesitantly.

 

As Cay cast her line out landing softly on the water she responded. “Yes.”

 

Emma sat frozen on the bench as she suddenly was overcome with emotion. The day had been wonderful and she was for the first time since the fire happy and glad to be alive, but she couldn’t help the tears that were leaving trails on her cheeks.

 

After several minutes of no response Cay turned around to look at the woman who spoke her name. “Emma, what’s the matter? Why are you crying?” She asked when she saw the tears rolling down her friend’s face.

 

Emma shook her head, unable to speak immediately. “I…I…” she began sobbing. “I don’t want you to leave.” She swiped her hand across her nose. “I’ve never had a friend and I don’t want to lose you.”

 

Cay’s face softened with compassion. “Emma, I will always be your friend.” She smiled as she cautiously moved forward. “I will figure something out, I promise.” She said touching her friend’s arm lightly.

 

With glistening eyes, Emma tried to smile. “I’m sorry for being selfish; it’s just that I have found what has been missing in my life…someone I can talk with…a friend.”

 

“Silly girl, you’re not selfish. I’ll tell you a secret.” Cay said smiling. “I’ve needed a friend too.”

 

Suddenly, Emma felt a strong tug on her line, but let the fish run with the line until it spit out the hook. “Won’t you let me help you? I have more money than I can ever use…I should use it to help others…my friend.” She said quietly, her eyes averting Cay’s.

 

“Emma, you have to understand, I can’t take your money; it wouldn’t be right.” How can I make her understand without hurting her? She thought. Damn, what a mess this has become. “I’ve made it a rule of my life not to take money from friends or family.” She said pleadingly.

 

The look on Emma’s face told her story. She was distraught with the idea of Cay leaving the area. “What can I do then so you will stay?” she said tearfully.

 

“Emma, trust me, I will find a way.” Cay said trying to diffuse the situation. I never intended on getting this involved. I need to get a hold my emotions; both our lives depend on it. “I will find the money or another place to stay, I promise. Will you please trust me?”

 

The tearful woman just stared off at the rippling water. Why is life this cruel to me? She wondered. There must be something I can do to help Cay out…there has to be! Cay’s words floated around in her head…another place to stay. “Of course!” she blurted out.

 

The utterance startled Cay. “What did you say?”

 

“The solution is so simple!” Emma said excitedly. “You can stay with me! I have lots of room and it would be so nice to have someone else in the house.” She said rapidly. “Don’t you see, Cay, its perfect? Please say yes.”

 

Cay was at a loss for words. Never did she imagine Emma would ask her to stay at her house with her. Things are working out; at least by being in the house I can keep Emma safe.

 

“Please say something, Cay.” Emma implored.

 

With eyes narrowed and a serious look, Cay spoke. “Are you sure that is what you want, Emma?”

 

“Yes!” The strong reply came.

 

“Have you thought about what the townsfolk will think about you inviting a stranger into your home?”

 

“I don’t care what they think, Cay. Never have.”

 

“Then we shall give it a try.” Cay said with a smile.

 

Emma’s face brightened into a full smile. “Yes, we shall. Would you like one of the sandwiches I brought?” she said holding up the bag.

 

Cay smiled. “That sounds great all of a sudden I am very hungry.”

 

Passing a ham and cheese sandwich to her friend and soon to be houseguest Emma felt content and truly at peace.

 

* * * * *

13

 

Walking into the quaint store, Cay approached Hannah. “Hi.” She said smiling fondly towards the older woman. Trepidation filled Cay’s mind wondering how to tell the older woman that she would be leaving. Even more troubling was admitting where she was moving.

 

“Well, hello yourself.” Hannah spoke while giving change to a customer. “The kitchen is closed, but I can find you some leftovers.” She said as she turned towards Cay, smiling.

 

“Oh, no, that’s not why I’m here, but thanks for the offer. I just wanted to let you know that I will be moving out of the cabin…and I need to settle up with you.” Her confident tone was hiding her anxiousness.

 

“I’m sorry to hear that, I’ll miss you.” Hannah said sincerely.

 

A big smile crossed Cay’s face. “Not to worry, I won’t be far away.” Taking a deep breath she continued. “I’m moving in with Emma.”

 

“Emma!” The shock was evident on her face. “Just what are you up to, missy?” Hannah said giving Cay a once over. “We don’t take kindly to anyone taking advantage of one of our own!” She crossed her arms over her chest and glared at the woman across from her. “Emma is an innocent so don’t think you can just waltz into this area and take advantage of someone who is vulnerable.”

 

Cay held her hand up. “Hey, wait a minute, I’m not trying to pull anything, and there’s a simple explanation.”

 

“I’m waiting.” The older woman said tapping her foot on the wooden floor.

 

“I’m running out of money and Emma asked me to stay with her. That’s all there is to it…nothing nefarious at all.”

 

The look on the woman’s face told Cay she wasn’t buying the story. Hannah, took out her ledger, set it down on the counter loudly, opened it to accounts receivable, and quickly wrote on a scrap piece of paper. “You owe us two hundred and thirty-seven dollars and twenty-six cents…in cash!” she said coldly.

 

“Cash, of course.” Cay said as she counted out the proper amount. “I will be gone by noon tomorrow.”

 

“Check out is eleven.” Hannah barked out.

 

“Eleven, then.” Cay said as she left the store. She would have to work late into the night to pack up her belongings. Then, there was the matter of her phone call to her employer. Better do that after I’m settled in Emma’s house…no sense taking any chances. She thought as she entered her cabin. She was about to start taking some of her possessions out to her car when the work cell rang.

 

“Yes.” She answered.

 

“You went fishing with the woman today, how soon before you deliver her to me?” the evil voice said.

 

“Like I told you last time, it isn’t going to be easy.” Cay said calmly even though her heart was beating double time.

 

“Listen to me, bitch, you have till the end of the week! Do you understand?”

 

“I understand, but you have to understand what is going on here.” The strong answer came.

 

“I don’t have to understand a damn thing! You listen and listen well, either you finish the job by the end of the week or you will pay!”

 

There was silence as the phone was hung up. Cay looked around the cabin and all that she had left to pack. He’s got someone here watching me, damn it all to hell! Packing everything quickly she stacked it by the door and was done within a half an hour. Before she went to live at Emma’s she needed to make sure she wasn’t being followed. There’s no sense in letting them know about my plans, better scout out the area. She dressed in all black, pushed her Colt into the holster on her back, turned out all the lights and quietly exited the cabin through a window blending in with the shadows.

 

Carefully she made her way along the side of the cabin, all the while scanning the area for any movement or sign that someone was there. She was the only resident living in the cabins therefore anyone around the cabins or docks at midnight didn’t belong there. She froze in place when she detected the faint scent of cigarette smoke. Crouching down, her eyes scrutinized the direction from where the wind was blowing. Off in the distance, towards the docks, she could see the glow of a cigarette.

 

Making her way in the shadows she moved towards the dock and the dark figure leaning against a dock piling. Drawing close enough to make out it was a man that she didn’t recognize; she devised a plan to confront him. She cautiously moved back a few yards to a tree and stood up keeping the tree between herself and the man’s line of vision. Touching her back she felt for her gun, breathing a sigh of relief that it was still there. Side stepping, she became visible to the man and anyone else watching. Walking towards the dock, she kept the man, who hadn’t seen her yet, in sight. He was a heavyset man with broad shoulders, brown hair, about five ten and in his mid forties. Suddenly he saw someone moving towards him and seemed to be searching for a place to hide, but it was too late.

 

Passing by the man, Cay nodded. “Great night for a walk isn’t it?” she asked.

 

The man hesitated, as he nervously seemed to look around. “Yeah.” A deep voice said as the man casually put his hand inside his jacket.

 

In a flash Cay’s gun was pointed at the man’s head. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” She warned. “Take it out, barrel first and throw it far out in the water.” She hissed in a low ominous tone.

 

The man did as he was told. “Okay, I did what you wanted; now get that gun away from my head.”

 

Cay pushed her gun harder against the man’s head. “You’re in no position to be giving the orders. Why are you following me?” she demanded.

 

“I don’t even know you, why would I be following you?” He said anxiously.

 

The gun twisted against his skin. “I’m sure you’ve been briefed on what I’m capable of doing to those that upset me! Don’t push me, mister or your next lie will be your last!” Cay spat out as she cocked the gun hammer.

 

“Okay, the boss sent me to make sure you were doing your job.” He said with a slightly trembling voice.

 

“Well, why don’t you go back and tell ‘the boss’ I don’t need a babysitter.” Cay said in a threatening tone as she continued to twist the gun. “Got it?”

 

“Yes.” He said trying to pull his head away from the barrel of the gun.

 

“Good, now you and I are going to walk up the road to your car before you get the hell out of here!” She said as she scrapped the gun across his cheek.

 

The man led the way with Cay following behind him, the gun resting against his back. “This yours?” she asked as she pressed the gun deeper in his back.

 

“Yes.” The man spit out. “The boss ain’t gonna like this, he’s gonna kill you then we’ll see whose so smart then.”

 

“Just what do you think he’s going to say when you go back and say you were found out?” Cay chuckled. “If I were you, I’d lay low until this is all over.”

 

“Yeah, you should take your own advice if you know what’s good for you.”

 

Poking the man with her gun, Cay’s voice became low and foreboding. “Open the door and get in,” she ordered. “Now you go back and report that I found you out and chased you away. I’ll make sure I send flowers to your funeral.”

 

The man slammed the car door shut and started up the engine before backing out of the parking lot. With screeching wheels he left the area, but not before giving Cay the finger.

Cay really didn’t care what he did as long as he got the message and didn’t go back and report his failure.

 

Once his car was out of site, she ran back to her cabin, quickly put her belongs in the VW and took off. She would spend the night parked elsewhere so no one could follow her when she went to Emma’s in the morning. Her plan to protect Emma, hinged on her being in place along with all of her safeguards before she quit her job. Parking her car in the shadows of a hotel parking lot, Cay mapped out the route she would take to Emma’s to ensure she wasn’t being followed. Then she took out her cell and dialed a familiar number.

 

“Hi, can you do me a favor?” she asked of the person on the other end. “I need the name of the owner of a tan Taurus; the license number is New York OGR-8732.” As she waited for the information her mind was racing with all she would have to do to protect Emma Sanders. Writing down the name and address she thanked the person and closed her phone. So, that was Bruno. She thought as she fingered her gun. I won’t let anyone harm you, Emma. That’s a promise. Slowly her eyes closed as she fell into a semi sleep.

 

* * * * *

14

 

Cay guided her car down Emma’s driveway and was pleased to see the woman standing there waiting for her. The happiness on Emma’s face was unmistakable and for Cay that solidified her resolve to protect the woman. Stopping her car Cay was surprised when Emma came over and opened her door.

 

“You came!” She exclaimed excitedly. “I have your room all ready.”

 

“Good morning, of course I came.” Cay said as she slid out of her car. “I brought you some bedding plants as a thank you gift.” She then bent back in her car and pulled out a flat of impatients. “I thought you could put them here along the house where it’s shady.” She said shrugging her shoulders and raising her eyebrows.

 

“How wonderful! You’re right they will be perfect here. Why don’t I put them down next to the house and then we can get your belongings in the house.” She said taking the flat and placing it next to the door before turning back and looking at Cay. It was then that she took a long hard look at the woman who just arrived and saw the tired, drawn face. “Are you okay?” she said softly.

 

Although she tried, Cay couldn’t stifle the yawn. “Yeah, I’m just a little tired, couldn’t find a comfortable position all night long.”

 

“Well, now that you’re here, that will change, this is a perfect place to rest it is quiet and peaceful.” Walking over to the car, Emma looked in. “What can I carry for you?” It was hard for her to hide her excitement. With her arms filled with Cay’s belongings, Emma headed for the door. “Cay?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“I don’t have a television.” She said apologetically.

 

Laughing, Cay responded. “Not a problem, Emma, I rarely watch television.”

 

Emma sighed in relief. “Guess I better tell you everything.” She said causing Cay to raise her eyebrow. “I don’t get a newspaper either.”

 

Cay rested her bags on the ground. “Emma, I came here to get away from all that.” She pulled the door open to allow Emma inside. “Looks like rain, we’d better hurry.”

 

Once everything was unloaded from the car and Cay parked it in the barn, the two women looked around the room at the clutter. “Looks like I need to get busy putting things away.” Cay said.

 

“All the drawers are empty as is the closet. I’ve made up the bed and placed a set of towels on that dresser for you.” Emma said nervously. “I guess I should get the impatients in the ground. Let me know if you need anything.” She said as she began to leave the room.

 

“Emma, thank you for letting me stay here.” Cay said with a smile.

 

Turning, Emma looked at her new boarder. “You’re welcome…I’m glad you’re here.”

 

* * * * *

 

Sitting at the kitchen table, Cay sighed. “Emma that was wonderful. Thank you.” Cay said of the meal of creamed chicken complete with homemade biscuits and a fresh from the garden leaf lettuce salad. She stood up and began clearing the table.

 

“No, I’ll do that.” Emma protested.

 

“Please let me, it’s the least I can do after you prepared that wonderful meal.” Cay sat the dishes down on the counter, turned the water and squirted dish liquid into sink.

 

Emma rushed over to the sink where hot water was filling it causing the lemon-scented soap to bubble and fill the air with its sweet fragrance. She reached out and took Cay’s hand. “I really don’t feel right with you doing the dishes.”

 

Cay patted the hand on hers. “Tell you what, why don’t I wash and you dry. Do you think you can feel right about that?” Cay said with pleading eyes.

 

“Not really, but I will try.”

 

“Good, let’s get them done; I have a present for you.” Cay said as she began rubbing a wet dishrag over the glasses.

 

Emma’s eyes lit up. “Really, what?” Her voice sounded like a small child’s excited about Christmas.

 

“You’ll see.” Was all Cay would say.

 

Sitting in the front room, Emma waited for Cay’s return from her bedroom. This is so wonderful, she thought. No one has ever been this nice to me. I’m so glad I asked her to stay. She was brought out of her musing when Cay came back.

 

Cay sat down in the chair next to Emma’s. “Here you go.” She said as she handed Emma a package.

 

Eagerly opening the package, Emma’s face looked up in question. “What is this?” she asked turning the item over in her hands.

 

Cay was taken aback. “It’s a cell phone…Hannah said you didn’t have a phone and I though if you ever got in trouble you may need one.” Cay said almost apologetically.

 

She looked over the item until Cay gently took it and flipped it open. “Oh, I see now.” Emma said happily. “I don’t know why Hannah told you that, I do have a phone…I couldn’t conduct business without one.” Looking over at the disappointed look on her friend’s face she added. “This one will be very useful out in the yard or in the boat…thank you for your thoughtfulness, Cay.”

 

Cay’s face lit up with a smile as she leaned in closer to Emma. “Its really easy to use, I programmed my number in so all you have to do is press the five, it will automatically dial my number, and you will always have me a call away.”

 

They spent the rest of the evening talking quietly about the phone and its features and their living arrangement. Emma tried to stifle a yawn, as her eyes grew heavy. “I’m sorry; I think the excitement of the day has finally caught up with me.” Another yawn came as she stood up and smiled. “Good night, Cay. Make yourself at home; if you need anything don’t hesitate to ask.”

 

A warm feeling came over Cay as she listened to her friend. “Thanks, I’m sure I’ll have all I need for tonight, if something comes up I’ll let you know in the morning. Sleep well and don’t let those bedbugs bite.”

 

Emma paused. “I remember my grandmother saying that before I went to bed,” she said smiling. “Thank you, for helping me in remembering her love. See you in the morning, goodnight.”

 

“Good night.” Cay said as she watched Emma walk down the hallway.

 

Several hours after Emma had gone to bed, Cay made her way outside.

 

The wireless motion detectors and cameras she brought with her to track Emma would now be used to alert her if unwanted visitors came onto the property. Hearing the breaking of a branch, Cay froze in position as her head turned towards the noise. Crouching down behind a large tree she watched and listened until she saw the emergence of a doe and her offspring. Breathing a sigh of relief, she continued setting up the equipment. While positioning the devices, she considered areas that she and Emma might hide if it came to that. Noting three areas that would afford them complete protection she finished the set up. Lastly she climbed a pine tree and attached a listening device that’s range covered much of the property before heading back to the house.

 

Yawning as she crawled into bed, Cay knew that this would be the last night for her to get sleep. In the morning when the opportunity presented itself she would make the call that would change Emma’s and her lives forever.  We will either live or die, she thought as she drifted off into a deep, dreamless sleep.

 

* * * * *

15

 

Cay sat out on the screen porch, in a large comfortable chair, watching the rain falling softly, watering the thirsty plants in Emma’s garden. Her laptop, resting on a small table, was monitoring any activity on the property surrounding the house. She heard the sounds of Emma getting up for the day and knew she would soon find her. Switching to a word program she brought up the story she was writing.

 

The door to the house opened and the home’s owner poked her head out. “Good morning, Cay, you certainly are up early.” Emma said smiling until she saw the laptop. “What’s that?” she asked pointing to the object on the table.

 

“This?” Cay asked touching the computer. “It’s my laptop.” She said confused by the question.

 

Emma cocked her head and narrowed her eyes. “A laptop? I don’t know what that is.” She replied honestly.

 

“It’s a portable computer.”

 

“I thought computers were so big they filled a room.” Her eyes were filled with wonder, as she looked over at the small notebook size computer.

 

“Oh, those days are long gone, Emma. The phone I gave you is somewhat like a small computer. On this laptop I can do all sorts of things that we used to do with pen and paper like writing, calculations or reading…I can download and entire book and read it here if I want. I can even travel around the world with it…visiting Europe, the Far East or just down the street. It is really remarkable how far technology has brought us.”

 

Emma’s eyes were as big as saucers. She had never heard of such a thing and thought that some of Cay’s claims were outrageous and exaggerated. “That is all so hard to believe…I’m not sure that I do.” She said softly.

 

“Tell you what, Emma, how about later this morning I show you how it works.” Cay said smiling brightly realizing that the laptop and the phone last night must be so very surreal to the woman. She has spent all of her life sheltered from the real world; why would she know about any modern technology? She asked herself.

 

Hesitantly Emma replied. “Okay.” Pausing, unsure of what to make of all Cays’ toys, she smiled. “I usually have toast, tea and fruit for breakfast, but I can make you something else if you want.” She said, her voice lacking confidence.

 

The scrape of her chair could be heard as Cay stood up. “Toast and fruit sound lovely. Shall we go?” She said waving her hand towards the house.

 

An hour later, while Emma tended to her daily chores, Cay retreated to the porch. She checked the surveillance and found nothing unusual. Pulling the work cell out of her pocket, dialed a long distance calling card number then punched in the number of her employer. She didn’t want him tracing her whereabouts and the calling card would have an anonymous number.

 

“Yeah.” Came the crude greeting.

 

“Borland, this is Cay O’Neill.”

 

“You better have some good news for me if you know what’s good for you.” He growled.

 

“Not really…I no longer wish to be in your employ so I’m quitting.” Cay said confidently although she could feel her stomach in an upheaval.

 

“NO ONE QUITS ON ME!!” he screamed into the phone.

 

“There’s a first time for everything.” She said sarcastically back to the horrible man she allowed to hire her.

 

“You’re a dead woman!” he said coldly.

 

“Ya gotta find me first.” Cay said with a laugh. “Oh, I sent your man Bruno packing, but you probably already know that. I don’t work for someone who doesn’t trust me!” she said forcibly.

 

Then Cay heard what she hoped she would, the man’s plans. “As soon as I finish with the Sanders woman, you’ll be next…like I said you’re a dead woman.

 

Cay was certain he was trying to trace her number and would be even angrier when he couldn’t. “Gotta go, see ya,” she said before hanging up. Her heart was pounding and her breathing was ragged and uneven. She had issued a challenge and now, Bruno, or someone equally heinous would hunt Emma and herself down.

 

For both women the day was busy. Emma spent the entire morning in her garden while Cay helped by cleaning the dock, which had become extremely slippery. 

 

Lunch consisted of sandwiches. “Cay, since the boat is still down here what do you say I show you around the lake this afternoon?”

 

Cay calculated in her mind how long it would take for Borland to organize his assault on Emma before speaking. “That sounds like a wonderful idea; I’ve only seen the entire area from the road.” Taking the last bite of her sandwich she added. “Will you give me some background and other interesting facts?”

 

Laughing, Emma stood up from the table. “I’m not sure how interesting it will be but sure. Let me clean up and then we shall go.”

 

In a flash Cay was standing and taking the dishes off the table and heading for the sink. “Shall I wash again?”

 

The small craft bumped over the wakes as it crossed the vast expanse of water. The air hung heavy as the sky threatened rain. “Emma, it looks like rain should we turn back?” Cay shouted to be heard over the roar of the motor.

 

The whine of the outboard engine quieted as the boat continued its forward motion before finally stopping in the water. “It’s not going to rain yet,” Emma informed her friend, “later on this afternoon or early evening.”

 

“Now, just how do you know that, are you some sort of weather person?” Cay asked laughingly.

 

Emma’s smile seemed a grimace as a strong breeze blew in her face. “No, silly, I’m just observant.” She then pointed to a ramshackle old house. “That was the first house my great great grandparents built when they first came to the valley.”

 

“Do you still own it?” Cay spoke loudly.

 

“Yes, I always thought we should restore it, but Mother said no and that was that. Now it is too far gone to save.” She then started up the engine and headed further down the lake.

 

As they approached the northern most shore, the wind began to strongly gust rocking the small craft back and forth. “I think we’d better head back.” Cay yelled out as she turned the boat around. “If it gets much worse we will have to dock at the Landing and walk home.”

 

Cay nodded her head as she braced herself as the boat went back over its own wake.

 

Once back to the safety of the Sanders’ dock both women gave a big sigh of relief. “Wow that came up quick, Emma, does that happen often?”

 

“Why Cay O’Neill I do believe you were scared.” Emma laughed as she carried the tackle into the house.

 

Holding the door open wide, Cay shook her head, “You mean you weren’t, those waves were really knocking us around out there!”

 

A long, boisterous laugh was heard. “Cay that was nothing. Wait until tomorrow when it is really windy and raining then you will see.”

 

True to Emma’s predictions the rains came and it rained and rained for two days.

 

* * * * *

16

 

Cay, perched high in a tree on an old hunter’s platform, scanned the area with night vision glasses. The remote detection warning device was set on vibrate and attached to her waist. She huddled under a plastic camouflage sheet shielding her body from the insistent rain. Other than wildlife, she hadn’t observed any movement towards the house and Emma. This worried Cay; two days had passed since she quit the job and nothing untoward had happened. Just what are you up to Borland? She wondered. He won’t find anyone else to do my job for him…I was the bottom of the barrel. Noticing the time, she quietly removed the cover and began climbing down the wooden slates that acted as steps. She needed to be back in her bed before Emma woke up and found her gone.

 

As she maneuvered through the undergrowth her mind went over several scenarios Borland might use. The original plan to gain Emma’s confidence was now by the wayside and Cay suspected his actions would become a full frontal assault. If that were the case, she would need to be on alert at all times waiting for…what? How, where and when will he go after Emma? She asked as she closed in on the house.

 

She felt the vibrating alert and instantly crouched down, her eyes scanning the area. The alert was coming from the mouth of the driveway; carefully, yet rapidly she moved in the shadows towards the presumed threat. A vehicle had pulled a few yards into the driveway and parked, turning the engine off and the lights out. The occupants were unaware of her presence as she stood behind a tree practically on top of the car.

 

Her night vision glasses allowed her to see inside the four-wheel vehicle. At first there seemed to be no one inside until she heard low moans. Moving close enough to peer in the window she saw two figures lying in the backseat apparently making love. Moving back to the cover of the darkness, she scanned the area once again for others and found none.

 

Now the cat and mouse game began. It is after five in the morning why would they be parking now? Midnight even two I can understand, but now? This is suspicious, but what can I do?  She could not confront the occupants of the SUV fearing they were sent there to draw her out. At the same time she couldn’t return to the house until they left. Emma! She thought. She’s going to find me gone! Damn! Leaving the two ‘lovers’ she quickly returned to the house only to see the lights on. “Shit!” she said as she removed her camouflage clothes revealing her running outfit. Lifting her face so the rain would cover it she used the discarded shirt to wipe the black away. “I’ll come out for these clothes later,” she said to herself.

 

Entering the house through the kitchen door she saw Emma standing there with tears in her eyes. “Good morning.” She said choosing to ignore the moist hazel orbs. “I went for a run and thought I’d be back before you got up.”

 

Emma’s eyebrows creased. “A run? Are you crazy? Its pouring rain outside!” she said shaking her head. “Look at you, Cay; you look like a drowned rat! Get yourself in the shower and I’ll make you a hot cup of tea.”

 

Cay was touched by the concern Emma was showing. “It was kinda like a stupid thing to do, wasn’t it?”

 

“Yes, now go before you catch a chill.” She commanded as she turned to start the kettle.

 

“Yes, mommy.” Cay said laughingly as she headed for the bathroom. Once there, she checked her monitors and was relieved to see the SUV had left.

 

With the rain prohibiting outside activities, the two women got to know each other even better. Emma slowly opened up more about her past and the horrors she endured in the mental institutions. Cay spoke openly about her family and different jobs she had when she was at the top. It was during that conversation she touched on the job she just quit.

 

“I hated sitting around watching cheaters and liars…I felt so sleazy doing that.” Cay said bowing her head. “A man approached me…he was pure evil, no one with any self respect would go near him, but I did. He offered me the chance to get back into the game I loved and I was so desperate I accepted.” She sighed. “It was the biggest mistake of my life.”

 

“Bigger than letting those other men get the best of you and ruining your career?” Emma asked.

 

“Yes.” Cay said so softly that Emma had to lean in closer to hear.

 

“What happened?” Her voice was soft and caring.

 

Cay lifted her eyes and smiled. “I quit, the price was too high.”

 

Emma reached over and patted her friend’s hand. “Good for you, Cay. Self respect is too precious to lose...believe me I know now that you have helped me regain mine.”

 

Nodding her head, Cay spoke reflectively. “Yes it is…I just hope the fallout won’t…” Coming out of herself, Cay shook her head and smiled. “Enough of the past. What do you say I show you more about the computer, who knows, you might just like it.”

 

Emma was curious about Cay’s not finishing her thought. What fallout? I will leave that for another time. She thought. “Okay.” She said tentatively.

 

Emma’s office consisted of a small room with an oak roll top desk and bookshelves filled with ledger upon ledger detailing all the Sander’s business dealings for the last forty years.

 

Raising her arm and pointing to the shelves of ledgers, Cay shook her head. “Emma, I can show you how you how to take all the information you need for the business and have it take up no more room than my laptop.”

 

Emma laughed. “I find that difficult to believe or imagine.”

 

“Would you like me to show you?” Cay asked.

 

“I…I don’t know.” Emma said with trepidation. “Mother always told me to avoid the trappings of the modern world…that it was just a way to throw money away.”

 

“Why don’t you let me show you? Then you can decide for yourself. We could use one of the ledgers and I will setup a database with the information.” Cay said eagerly.

 

“I…I guess we can try. You won’t use a recent ledger, will you?” Emma was fearful of letting the woman know her business dealings.

 

“Nope, we will get one of the earlier ones.” Cay then selected a leather bound ledger from 1982. “Is this one okay?” She asked and was pleased that Emma nodded yes.

 

Cay was impressed by Emma’s ease of learning about databases; she had an open mind and easily grasped the concept of what a database was. The questions she asked were intuitive and indicated a clear understanding of the subject.

 

“Cay, I can’t believe how simple it is to keep records!” Emma exclaimed. “Will you help me choose and set up a computer for the business?” she added, excited by the afternoon’s lesson in databases.

 

“Are you sure you never knew about computers? You sure took to this like a duck to water.” Cay said laughing. “Of course I will help you.” Looking out of the window, she sighed. “Do you think it will ever stop raining?”

 

Emma got up and went to the window then turned and opened the porch door, leaving Cay alone. “Come on out here, Cay, maybe I can teach you something.”

 

Cay readily joined her friend on the porch. “I’m ready, teach me.”

 

Emma pointed to the grass, the leaves and the sky and how they looked. “See the type of clouds that are up there now?” she asked pointing to the sky. “Earlier this morning and yesterday, you could only see a gray sky without formed clouds. The rain will be stopping by tonight and tomorrow will be sunny.” She pronounced.

 

“I’ll hold you to that.” Cay said with a smile.

 

“You do that, besides tomorrow is shopping day and I don’t like walking in the rain.”

 

“Emma, I do have a car. By the way, thanks for letting me keep the bug in the barn.”

 

“The bug?” Emma asked. “Oh, your car, yes it does look like some sort of creepy-crawly beetle.”

 

Cay laughed again. “Emma, you are too much. What’s for dinner or do you want me to go pick something up at the diner?”

 

“While you’re living here with me, you’ll never have to go out to eat again, Cay. I thought I would make a stew…it’s a good rainy day meal.”

 

* * * * *

 

Cay woke up suddenly, her body cramping from the cold, damp night and the hard surface she had been sleeping on. She had been sitting under the tarp since ten the night before and now checking her wristwatch it was five in the morning. Stretching, her bones creaked and cracked and her muscles protested being moved. She scrambled down the tree and quickly, yet quietly made her way back to the house. Once inside, she opened her computer and scanned the logs of the sensors. Nothing. Foreboding filled her mind as she undressed and crawled under the covers. Something is wrong…I’ve overlooked a key aspect, but what? Her mind started going over all the various scenarios for the hundredth time as her head found the pillow and sleep. 

 

Emma quietly opened the door and saw Cay fast asleep. Creeping inside the room she pulled the covers up over her friend then left. Once she smells the coffee she will be up. She thought as she went into the bathroom for a quick shower.

 

She had finished cleaning up the kitchen after her breakfast then quietly knocked on Cay’s door. There was no answer; guess staying up all these nights has finally caught up with her. Emma mused as she went outside to work in her garden. Ever since her visitor’s arrival, Emma had heard her moving about during the night. The woman speculated that Cay was having difficulty sleeping in new surroundings. Looking up at the clear skies and bright sun, Emma smiled as she knelt down on the soggy grass and began tending to her garden.

 

Some time later, Emma reentered her home listening for any signs that Cay had gotten up. Softly opening the door to her friend’s room she saw the light brown hair draped across a pillow the face buried under the sheet. Going over to the bed she gently nudged Cay.

 

“Cay, I’m going shopping.” She said softly.

 

“What?” Came the sleepy response.

 

“I’m going to the store.” Emma said a bit louder.

 

“Okay.” Cay said wearily before falling back into a deep sleep.

 

Emma smiled then left her friend and her house to walk the mile to town. On her way she wondered if Cay would be awake when she returned. I wonder if she’s ill. She was out in the cold, early morning rain the other day. I’ll have to make her my special tea when I get home.

 

Entering the store, Emma was immediately greeted by Hannah. “Hello, Hannah, its good to see the sun at last isn’t it?

 

“Oh, Emma, I’ve been so worried about you.”

 

Emma’s face wrinkled in question. “Why?”

 

“Having that woman in your home! What on earth possessed you to have her come live with you, child? You know nothing about her…she’s just there taking advantage of you!”

 

* * * * *

 

She was deep in sleep, her mind filled with terrible dreams. In a dreamscape she saw a man chasing a woman with a hatchet in his hand. The woman was screaming and terrified. Cay couldn’t make out whom the woman was, but she felt she knew her and could feel the woman’s body quake in fear. The man caught up to the woman and wrapped an arm around her as he lifted the hatchet in the air ready to strike the first blow. The woman turned in horror, her face begging for help.

 

“EMMA!” Cay screamed as she sat straight up in her bed. Her heart was beating rapidly and sweat was dripping down her brow. Looking around and orientating herself to her surroundings, she realized it was a dream. The sun was shining through the window and Cay smiled realizing Emma’s prediction of the weather was correct. Suddenly she gasped in fear. Cay, I’m going shopping.

 

“Shit!” she sprang from the bed and rooted around on the floor for clothes to wear. Running full speed out the door she decided it would be faster for her to run to the store than go get her car. Damn, how did I let this happen? Oh, Emma please be safe! What an idiot I am, shit damn it all to hell. Run…run faster!

 

Arriving at the store Cay was relieved to see Emma’s back in what appeared to be a conversation with Hannah. Entering the store she found it difficult to not hear her friend’s voice.

 

“You know, Hannah, I don’t owe you an explanation of who does or does not live in my home. Cay is a good friend and I take exception to you implying she is up to no good! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have shopping to do.” Emma turned away from the troublesome woman, anger evident on her face until her eyes saw her friend standing in the door. A wonderful smile crossed her face as she went to Cay.

 

“I see you finally woke up, sleepyhead.” She said laughing. “I’m glad you’re here.”

 

Smiling back at her friend, Cay noticed the glare of Hannah in her direction. Raising her hand she waved. “Good morning, Hannah.” She said in her sweetest voice.  She couldn’t fault the woman for her suspicions; after all she was just looking out for Emma just as she was. Her eyes scanned the store and rested on a stranger sitting at the lunch counter. He was slouched over reading a newspaper…the bulge in his back undeniable. Calm, girl, remain calm. She said to herself as she made mental plans of escape for Emma and herself. Through the large plate glass window, she saw a dark car parked near the building with New York plates. “Emma, I need to go outside for a minute and cool down, I ran all the way here.” She said to her friend.

 

“Okay, I just need a few items and won’t be long.” Emma replied as she noticed a strange look in Cay’s eyes. “Are you okay? I’m afraid you might be coming down with something after that run in the cold rain the other day.” Her eyes were filled with compassion and caring as her hand began to reach for Cay’s forehead.

 

“Nope, I’m fine, just needed to do some stretching, that’s all. Be right back.” She said smiling as she went out the door. Once outside, she made her way to the dark vehicle reaching far under the fender, she placed a tracking device, and then slashed a tire. Casually walking around to the other side she faked dropping something then bent down on the ground, reached under the car with her knifed hand and cut the brake line. Getting up, she looked around to see if anyone was watching; relieved that the stranger seemed to be alone. Gazing through the window she saw the man covertly watching Emma as another man joined him. Borland! Damn!

 

The big question for Cay was did the men see her as well. She decided to operate on the assumption that they did as she continued observing the men and Emma. Noticing her friend heading to the counter and Hannah, Cay knew the shopping was done and Emma would be outside shortly. Racing towards the dock, Cay jumped in Emma’s boat to make sure it was full of gas and ready to go…it was. Running back up the hill towards the store, Cay arrived just as Emma emerged.

 

“Hey, I’m over here.” She called out in a hushed voice to her friend.

 

Emma’s head turned when she heard her friend’s voice. “What are you doing there?” she asked.

 

“I thought we could take the boat back and maybe go fishing later on.” Cay replied casually.

 

“What a great idea!” Emma replied as she started towards her friend with shopping basket in tow. She was unaware of the dark eyes that followed her as she crossed in front of the store.

 

Cay steered the small craft close to the dock and turned off the engine. Emma grabbed the round piling to stop the forward progress of the boat and tied off a rope. Both women worked quietly and efficiently as they secured the craft before taking the groceries to the house. For Cay, her body and mind were on full alert, ready at a moments notice to defend and protect Emma and her property. Her first job when they got to the house was to start up her computer and check the logs. Then, she needed to think of a way to keep Emma safe without alarming her. Damn it all to hell. She thought as they entered the house.

 

* * * * *

 

Evan Borland and his companion, Tony Giovanni, casually twirled their seats around to watch Emma Sanders leave the store. As they watched her walk in the opposite direction than they expected they looked at each other. “Get out there and see where she’s going.” Borland demanded.

 

“I’m going, boss.” Tony said as he his stocky body stood up and walked towards the door.

 

Borland snorted as he watched the man walk away. What a looser, damn Bruno, where the hell is he? “Zach, I need to settle up.”

 

“Here you go,” Zach said as he filled the man’s coffee cup up again. “When do you want that boat and the gear?”

 

Evan was about to answer when Tony came up to him quickly. Bending in close he whispered, “She went in a boat with a woman.”

 

“O’Neill.” He growled under his breath. “Can you make us up some sandwiches to go? Then we’ll need the boat. My friend here tells me the fish are starting to nibble at the bait.”

 

Zachariah looked at the two men as he watched Hannah make the sandwiches. “Those two don’t look much like fishermen.” He said absently.

 

Hannah looked up at the two sitting anxiously at the counter. “No they don’t, look like mobsters to me…especially that Borland fellow, never did like him.” She said as she continued to make the sandwiches.

 

Borland stood about six feet tall with a lean body; his white thinning hair was cut short accentuating his small, beady and menacing eyes hidden behind thick glasses. His skin was tanned as if he had recently been in Florida. Although his appearance was ordinary the aura surrounding him was evil. His compatriot was shorter and not in good physical shape. His hair was thick and black combed back and slicked down. His features, although bloated, were rather appealing in a big brother sort of way. Had he not been with Borland one would think of him as a kind gentle man.

 

“Sandwiches are ready, Mr. Borland.” Hannah said handing the man a paper sack.

 

“Hey, does the Sanders’ family still live on the lake?” He asked as he gave Tony the bag.

 

“Yep, same place.” Hannah answered.

 

“I need to get the boat ready, give me ‘bout an hour or so.” Zachariah said as he began wiping up the counter.

 

Paying his bill, Borland started to leave before turning back. “I’ll meet you down by the dock, in an hour and a half be on time! I don’t like to keep my prey, the fish, waiting too long for their last meal.” He laughed in a threatening tone that sent shivers up Hannah’s spine.

 

Outside the man made his way to his car where Tony was standing shaking his head. “What’s the matter?” He snarled.

 

“Someone’s slashed the tire!”

 

“Well change it you fool we need to check out the Sanders’ place.”

 

“No problem, boss.” Tony said as he opened the trunk for the spare then looked down and saw the fluid. Instantly he was on his knees looking under the vehicle and saw fluid dripping from a line under the car. “Boss, you aren’t going to believe it! Someone cut one of the lines under the car.”

 

“Fuck! God damn woman, she will pay for this!” he shouted. “Get it fixed, NOW!” he ordered before heading down towards the water. His mind began working on how it would make the O’Neill woman for collaborating with Emma Sanders. I’ll make her sorry…her death will be long and slow. An evil grin crossed his face as he closed in on Zachariah and the boat that he would use to finish both women off.

 

* * * * *

17

 

Over the next two hours Cay paced around the house trying to be inconspicuous as she inspected the window locks and the sensors she had in position. All seemed to be in place and secure, yet the danger Cay felt would not be placated. She would constantly look out windows or touch the monitor in her pocket hoping to see the attack before it arrived. Occasionally she would sit at the kitchen table with her laptop open watching the various monitors placed around the property. We are sitting ducks just waiting for the hunter to find us. She thought as she glanced at Emma sitting in her favorite chair reading a book. I will keep you safe, Emma if I have to die doing it! She vowed.

 

Although it appeared that Emma was deeply immersed in her book she spent most of the time watching Cay. The woman was acting like a caged animal wanting to be released from its confines so it could go on the prowl. Something was going on she knew it, but what? A lesson of spending time in a mental institution when you are sane is you develop a talent for reading people. When Cay first came out of the water onto her property, Emma thought her to be cocky and sarcastic. That opinion did not change when they met in the store, but when the woman stopped to help her along the road; Emma’s judgment began to change. What she saw was a caring, sincere person who had genuine compassion. She remembered waking from her sickbed to find Cay sleeping awkwardly in a chair nearby. Her devotion and honest concern for Emma’s well being was real; Emma could see it in her eyes.

 

Emma closed her book loudly causing Cay to jump. “Is something the matter?” Cay asked with great concern.

 

“No. It is time to go fishing!” Emma declared as she rose from her sitting position.

 

“Fishing? Now? It’s the middle of the afternoon, isn’t that too early? Besides, we don’t have any bait.”

 

“Not to worry, Cay, I am going to show you a new technique where you won’t need worms or minnows.” She said as she took her fishing hat off the wooden peg by the door. “Let’s get going, times a wastin’. Don’t forget to lock up.”

 

“But…but I…” was all Cay could say as Emma disappeared out the door with her fishing pole and gear in hand. Scrambling to catch up, Cay thought, Emma, you’re making my job much more difficult! Shit this could turn out to be so dangerous…damn it all to hell! They could pick us off one at a time out in the open! She grabbed her backpack on the way out; glad that she had stowed away her gun and a few other defensive items in it earlier.

 

Emma was already in the boat when Cay caught up to her. Climbing in, she covertly scanned the area before turning to her friend. “I’m here, let’s go.” She said, anxious to get away from the dock and the exposure to the danger they were in.

 

Emma steered the boat away from the dock and moved rapidly away towards the wildlife refuge. All the while Cay was watching their backs as the land behind became smaller and smaller. The squint of her eyes as the darted around the lake and the deep concern on her face didn’t go unnoticed by Emma.

 

The craft soon turned in towards the very reeds and cattails Cay had hidden behind in what seemed like ages ago. Emma stopped the motor and switched on the electric one before proceeding. Slowly the boat went deeper and deeper until they were surrounded; it seemed, on every side by tall, dense water plants. The motor came to a halt and all around them was an eerie silence.

 

“We’re going to fish here? I can hardly see the water.” Cay said confused by the area Emma chose to stop and fish in.

 

For what seemed like forever, Emma didn’t speak or move. Finally as Cay spun around to face the woman she spoke. “What’s going on, Cay?”

 

Cay’s brow furrowed. “Going on? I don’t understand what you mean.” Her eyes darted away.

 

“I may not be up on all the modern technology, Cay, but I’m not stupid.” She said sternly. “Every night since you moved in you have gone out and not returned until early morning. A while ago in the house you were pacing around like a dog in heat anxious to get out and find a mate.” Her voice took on a lower octave. “I repeat, what’s going on? I want the truth.”

 

Cay brought her hand up over her mouth and held it there as she contemplated what to say. Finally she bowed her head and began to speak. “Do you remember me telling you about the job I took then quit?”

 

“The evil man?” she asked. “Yes, I remember.”

 

Raising her head, Cay looked into the trusting eyes of her friend knowing she didn’t deserve the trust. “The job concerned you.”

 

Emma’s never changing gaze remained on Cay. “What about me?” she asked cautiously.

 

Her eyes diverted from Emma’s gaze. “I…I’m so ashamed.” She said in an almost imperceptible tone as she studied the rivulets of water on the boats flooring. Sighing deeply, knowing that she had to finish the story, Cay continued. “The man wanted me to come here and seek you out and become friends with you then take you to him.” She blurted out.

 

Emma wanted to run and hide. Her mother and Hannah had been right; she never should have trusted Cay! Her eyes rested on a distant tree as she fought the urge to cry out and attack the woman who no longer was her friend. “I see.” She said shaking her head. “What exactly did this man want with me?” Something isn’t right, why would anyone want me? I don’t know anyone except Hannah and her husband…why me?

 

Cay could see how devastated Emma was and it broke her heart. Hopefully I can make it right. “I don’t know, Emma, I was never privy to that information. All I know is that he said your mother owed him and now you did.”

 

“You said you quit, the price was too high…what price, Cay? I trusted you, I let you move into my house, I fed you…I thought we were friends.” Her tone was low and defeated as if she couldn’t quite believe what was happening. Suddenly, Cay was coming at her pushing her down in the boat and covering her body with her own. Her fingers went to Emma’s mouth as she whispered. “Shh.”

 

Soon the hum of an electric motor could be heard very close to them with the low inaudible sounds of two men’s voice. It seemed as though they were almost on top of them when their motor stopped. Cay spread herself over Emma further protecting her from what was to come.

 

A hushed whisper was heard. “Tony, did you see where they went?”

 

“They disappeared behind the reeds where we came in, boss, they have to be around here somewhere.” The other man murmured.

 

Emma closed her eyes realizing they were in danger and Cay was protecting her.

 

“Damn it, how did you let them get away? I told you we were position too far away! You’re useless, I’d be better off alone!” the other man said in a menacing whisper.

 

“I don’t hear anything, let’s look over there. I’m sure we’ll find them. Besides, we know where the house is we can get ‘em there.”

 

“You better hope so if you know what’s good for you! Now get going!”

 

The purr of the electric motor could be heard again as the men moved away from Cay and Emma’s hiding place. They waited a long time before they moved.

 

Cay lifted her body then held her hand out to Emma. “They’re gone, you can get up now.” She whispered. “Did I hurt you?”

 

Emma took the offered hand and rose up slightly then slid onto the seat. “No, I’m okay. What’s going on, Cay, I deserve to know.” The fear in her voice was evident.

 

“Yes you do. I quit the job because I couldn’t do anything that might harm you. You told me you never had a friend, Emma, well neither have I until you came into my life. I never let anyone in…I think I was afraid of getting hurt…just like I have hurt you now. All I want to do is protect you from that monster and if it means making the ultimate sacrifice I will.” Her eyes fixed on Emma. “You’re worth it to me.”

 

Emma’s mind was in a whirl as was her heart. She had in the space of an hour gone from happiness to heartbreak, curiosity to bewilderment and from rage towards Cay to tenderness. “I don’t know what to think anymore.” She said softly. “How much danger are we in?”

 

“I won’t mince words with you…Borland isn’t the kind of man you walk away from or who gives up. It’s bad, very bad.”

 

“Borland? Eric?” Emma was filled with fear.

 

“No, Evan.”

 

Closing her eyes in resignation, Emma squeezed them tight as if to blot out the thoughts. “His father, what does he want from me? What are we going to do? Run?”

 

Cay shook her head. “We can’t run; a man like Borland will hunt us down. We will stand and fight.” She said confidently. “I will protect you, Emma, you can count on that! Now, do you know how to get out of here and back to your house without them seeing us?”

 

“Yes, I know this place like the back of my hand.”

 

* * * * *

18

 

The small craft that Emma guided with the quieter electric motor made its way through the water lilies, reeds and cattails. The boat stopped at the edge of the growth, still hidden although they were able to see the house. Cay removed the monitors from her bag and checked to see if the area around the house had been breeched.

 

“What’s that?” Emma asked curious about the instrument Cay held.

 

“It’s a monitoring device. I set up motion detectors and cameras around your property. This,” she held up the small apparatus, “lets me know if anyone is in the area.” She said as she looked over the data.

 

“Is there?” Emma asked her heart beating double time.

 

“No, it seems to be clear. Is there a way to get to the house without docking the boat?”

 

Emma’s eyes scanned the area. “We can go in over there.” She pointed to an area where the wildlife area bordered her property. “It will be about a hundred yards to the house from there.” She added.

 

“We can move along that tree line for cover.” Cay said. Dusk was quickly approaching and would give them added camouflage. Stripping off her dark shirt she handed it to Emma, “Here put this on.”

 

Emma frowned as she looked at Cay sitting in the boat with a black bra and no shirt. “Why? I can’t do that you will have nothing to wear.”

 

“Take it Emma and put it on, your white shirt will give you away once you’re out in the open.” Cay ordered.

 

“But, what about you?” she protested.

 

“I’ll be fine, no put it on, please.” Once the shirt was on Emma she motioned with her hand, “Okay, let’s head that way, I’ll keep an eye out in case our visitors return.”

 

Emma ran the boat aground on the soft moss that accumulated there and turned off the motor. They quickly gathered the important equipment and made their way along the edges of light and dark towards the house. Cay held out her hand to stop Emma when the edge of the trees was reached so she could scrutinize the nearby vicinity.

 

Holding the monitor up and close to her body to deflect the light, she motioned for Emma to stand beside her. “See here.” She pointed to the surreal images on the screen. “This is you and me, its how an intruder would look. Remember that.” Her eyes landed upon the entrance to the cellar. “Emma, can we get into the house from the basement entrance?”

 

“Its locked, but I have the key.”

 

“Good, give me the key, I’ll go over there and unlock the doors then motion you to come.”

 

Emma handed over the keys indicating which one open the lock then watched as Cay moved, in a semi crouched position, silently towards the house. The twin doors were unlocked and pulled back with a loud screech. Cay stopped immediately holding the doors motionless as she looked back at Emma. She then gently lowered the doors as quietly as she could. Emma held her breath until she saw Cay wave to her to move forward. In spite of the terror she felt, Emma ran across the open area until she reached her friend.

 

“Can we lock this from the inside?” Cay asked in a whisper motioning for Emma to go inside.

 

“Yes, bring the lock.” Emma answered as she started down the steep set of stairs.

 

Once inside, Cay pulled the two doors shut, weaved the lock through the rings and snapped it closed. The basement was pitch black as Cay carefully made her way down the stairs. “Emma?” she called out. “Is there any light down here?” Suddenly there was a beam of light directed towards her feet.

 

“Be careful the last two steps are shaky.” Emma said in a loud whisper. Once Cay was standing next to her she spoke again. “Hold on to my shoulder and I’ll lead the way.” She said directing the small beam of light from a keychain flashlight at her feet.

 

For a moment it was difficult for Cay to give up the lead and trust Emma to get them to where they needed to be. Nevertheless, she placed her hand on the woman’s shoulder as they proceeded towards the stairs to the main floor.

 

When the reached the top of the stairs Cay whispered, “Let me go first,” she said while she checked the monitor. “I don’t see anyone inside, but it is good to be careful.

 

Emma stepped aside so Cay could move past her. “Here, you need to unlock the door,” she said as she handed her the keys.

 

The key slid into the lock and was turned gently to avoid as much noise as possible. Turning the doorknob, Cay smoothly opened the door a short way before peering inside. “Come on.” She said motioning Emma inside before relocking the door.

 

Safe, for the moment, inside the house, decisions needed to be made as to what to do next. Taking Emma’s hand, Cay led them to the living room then to the porch. “Sit.” She commanded. “We need to make a plan, Emma. Are you with me?”

 

The woman hesitated for a moment, “Yes, just tell me what I need to do.”

 

“We need to quickly change into all black outerwear, Emma.” Cay said shrugging her shoulders as she sat there clothed in her bra and jeans. “It will make us harder to see in the dark. Oh, and make sure you have on sturdy boots and gloves. Meet me back here when you’re done.” She added. “Quietly.”

 

Emma, moved from her sitting position and went quickly inside as did Cay. Meeting back on the porch, Cay hastily checked the monitor again before handing it over to Emma. “I need to go back inside and check everything out. Can you stay here and keep watch? Most likely they will come from the water so you will need to listen very carefully. I put a motion light out by the dock and it will come on if someone gets near.”

 

“A motion light?” Emma asked confused by the words.

 

“Yes, it will come automatically if it senses motion.”

 

“Really?” Emma replied amazed that such a thing existed.

 

“Yep. Do you have the phone I gave you?” Emma shook her head, no. “Where is it?” Cay asked annoyed that she now would have to retrieve the phone for Emma.”

 

“By my bed.” Emma said meekly.

 

“Shit!” Cay murmured under her breath as she quickly went to Emma’s bedroom. Returning she handed the woman the phone. “I’ve set it to vibrate, if you see or hear anything at all out of the ordinary I want you to press the number five, I will feel it immediately.” Stopping for a moment, Cay could see the fear on Emma’s face. She smiled and gently patted Emma’s hand. “Everything will work out, I promise.” She said, wondering to herself why she was giving out promises that she didn’t know she could keep. There has to be a way. She thought as she made her way back into the house.

 

Emma sat in fear, paralyzed by the thought that strangers were stalking her and in all likelihood, wanted her dead. What she couldn’t figure out was why Eric’s father wanted to take her life. She had dropped the charges and given her child up, what more could he want and why? She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn’t realize that Cay had returned to the porch.

 

“Anything happen?” Cay said in a whisper.

 

Startled, Emma jumped as terror gripped her body. She was in panic until she heard Cay’s soothing voice. “Hey, it’s only me. You’re safe.”

 

Sighing, Emma smiled weakly. “Are we going to get out of this, Cay?” Then looking into the house she asked, “Why are the lights on, I thought we were keeping them out…they will see us!”

 

“We need the lights on to attract them or they will just sit and wait until they see us.” Noticing the terrified look, Cay continued. “Emma, I promise you that I will do my very best to see that neither of us are harmed.”

 

“Okay, I’ll hold you to that.” Emma said as a small sense of calm came to her.

 

It seemed as though it happened from out of nowhere when the light by the dock went on. Both women froze in position as they saw a boat and two men pull alongside the dock. Then there was the faint whizzing sound of a silenced gun as the light bulb broke into pieces leaving the area in darkness once again.

 

“They’re coming for us.” Emma cried out. Every part of her wanted to run and hide…she longed for the safety of her bedroom closet where she would find solace when her mother was on a rampage.

 

“Shh.” Cay said quietly as she leaned to whisper into Emma’s ear. “You can choose to run or stay and fight, Emma. Whatever you decide to do I will support you.”

 

Emma knew the time had come for her to finally stand up for herself. She had done nothing wrong and there was no reason that she should allow these men to come onto her property and terrorize her. Yes, she would fight them to the end if necessary…she would shed the cloak of fear and emerge as a new and stronger person. “I’m with you.” She said confidently. “What do we do now?”

 

“Just watch and wait, I have a few surprises arranged for them. Here,” she handed Emma a pair of night vision glasses, “put these on, you’ll be able to see them.”

 

Emma watched as the pair crept along her soggy yard towards the house. Once they reached the large oak tree, one man motioned to the other to go left as he proceeded towards the porch. Suddenly, she saw them both lifted off their feet, shaking before being thrown backwards.

 

Cay chuckled. “Surprise number one…electrical shock. There will be another.”

 

The bigger of the two men moaned. “Boss, they know we’re here. We need to get out of here before she kills us!” He screamed out as quietly as he could before starting his retreat to the boat.

 

“Get back here, Tony, you fuckin’ coward!” the other man commanded. Realizing the man wasn’t returning, he shot him, grazing his leg.

 

Tony struggled to his feet holding the bleeding leg as he tried to stop the blood. He stood, looking at the man who just shot him, knowing if he continued to the boat he would be killed. “Boss, let’s get out of here and come back when its light. Don’t you see they have the advantage now?”

 

“You spineless piece of shit! Get the fuck over here, now! We will finish this tonight, now move your ass.” Borland demanded as he turned back towards the house.

 

Tony turned and limped quickly in the direction of the dock and boat. He’s mad I have to get out of here! If I can just make it to the boat I can get out of here. Shit! No wonder even Bruno wouldn’t came up missing. He thought as a bullet ripped through his back into his heart just as he was about to step into the boat. He slumped into the boat taking his last breaths as he reached for the key to start the engine.

 

Emma gasped as she watched in horror. “He killed him.” She said shakily. “He must be crazy; we’ve got to stop him, Cay.”

 

Borland continued moving towards the house, carefully stepping over the area where he was shocked previously only to find that he was shocked and thrown back once again.

 

When it was evident that Borland would not be deterred, Cay tapped Emma’s arm and motioned for them to go inside. “Emma, I want you to sit in that chair and act like you are reading a book. Can you do that for me?”

 

“Yes.” She said as she went to the chair and sat down finding a book on the table next to her. She looked across from her and cocked her head at what she saw. The plunger was sitting upright on the chair with one of her mother’s wigs covering the rubber part at the top. Her eyes looked at Cay in question. The reply was a wink.

 

Cay positioned herself in the shadows behind the door. Patiently they waited, their hearts pounding in fear and excitement.

 

Again, Borland was back up on his feet and headed for the house, his anger and distain for the two women swelling to epic heights. “They’ll pay with their lives.” He muttered as he went up the few steps, his hand poised on the screen doorknob. His eyes searched through the screening for any more surprises, seeing none, he carefully and quietly tried to open the screen door only to find it locked. Taking out a credit card he slid it between the door and the doorjamb and lifted the hook, freeing the door. Silently opening the door, holding his breath that it wouldn’t squeak, he stepped onto the porch and crept towards the opened doorway.

 

Peering inside, he could see Emma Sanders in a chair and the head of the O’Neill woman in another. They don’t even know I’m here. He thought arrogantly. Stupid Tony! If only you were alive to see how wrong you were. He sneered. He could feel the excitement rise, knowing that tonight he would take back what was taken from him. His mind flashed back to the day so long ago standing in the police station looking at the miserable cripple, Esther Sanders.

 

He had taken the wheelchair bound woman aside to convince her to drop all charges against his son.

 

“If you know what’s good for you and your daughter, you will see that this all goes away.” He warned.

 

“Your son raped my daughter and he will pay for that.” Esther’s replied.

 

“Oh I don’t think you heard me, bitch.” he said as he leaned in close to the helpless woman. “Drop the charges or I will have twenty guys in here swearing they all did your daughter. She will be known as the town slut in addition to the town wacko.” His eyes were menacing and filled with anger.

 

“You can’t do that, everyone knows she’s not like that.” Esther protested, her voice rising.

 

“Keep your voice down!” the man commanded. “When I’m done with that moron you call your daughter she won’t have a reputation worth shit. Are you willing to take that chance? I guarantee you my son will get off and your daughter will be scorned forever! Go ahead and take me on, bitch. I’d like nothing better than to bring you and that wacko down.” He spat out at the crippled woman.

 

Esther had done enough business deals to know when to cut and run and she knew this was such a time. The man hovering over her with his fetid breath and threatening looks meant business. Emma would just have to live with no justice, but not her mother. No, Esther had plans and she would see them through. She would keep a copy of the arrest report even though she knew Borland would insist it all be expunged. Yes, she would see there was justice.

 

“The charges will be dropped.” She said in a defeated tone.

 

“Glad you see it my way.” The man snorted out as he turned and walked away.

 

Unfortunately for his son, the raped haunted him everywhere he went. Every college he applied to turned him down. It wasn’t until Evan Borland physically threatened an admissions registrar that he found out why…anonymous letters including a police report accusing his son of rape. It didn’t stop there…every woman he asked on a date would accept only to not go out with him at the last minute. It seemed they had calls about Eric being a rapist. The only job he could find was as a dishwasher in a restaurant. Finally it got too much for Eric and he took his own life.

 

But, I still have Claire. He thought as he crept his way ever closer to his target. Soon I will introduce myself and bring her home. He smiled with that thought as he entered the front room further and raised his arm leveling his gun at Emma’s head.

 

He felt the blow to his arm as his gun clattered on the floor sliding out of his reach. Suddenly he found himself laying face down on the wooden floor with a knee lodged in his back holding him securely down. He desperately tried reaching for his gun screaming. “Get off of me, bitch.” He was astonished when a slender, gloved hand reached down and picked the gun up. “That’s mine! Give it back!” he demanded as he lurched in an attempt to free himself only to find his hand being jerked backwards and quickly tied together with a soft robe tie.

 

“I don’t think you’re in any position to demand anything, Borland.” Cay said as her knee left the man’s back as she stood up.

 

“Look, Cay, isn’t this a gun?” Emma said. Her eyes had a glazed look as she continued. “My finger just fits in this curvy thing. Wonder what will happen if I move it?” the bullet shot silently out of the gun lodging itself in the floor next to the man’s head.

 

“Take that away from her!” he demanded. “She’s a nut case; can’t you see it in her eyes? She’s dangerous!”

 

Cay didn’t know what to do. Clearly, Emma was in a world of her own as she brandished the gun around. Then, she looked squarely at her friend and saw a momentary glint in her eyes. Shaking her head and smiling she spoke to Borland. “Well, ya know she isn’t quite right in the head and there is no tellin’ what she might do to you.” She grabbed the back of the man’s jacket, pulled him up then threw him back into the chair with the plunger. “I think you might do yourself a favor and start talking.” Cay said her voice filled with venom.

 

“I don’t need to tell you a fuckin’ thing, the rest of my boys will be here any minute.” He spat out. “You two bitches are as good as dead.”

 

Cay was eye to eye with the man. “Now, now, Evan, you know no one else is coming. Only Tony would work for you and you killed him…oops, Evan baby, that means you are at the mercy of two wackos.” She said with a sneer.

 

“You’re a dead woman, O’Neill! Do you hear me, a DEAD WOMAN!” he screamed as he spat in her face.

 

Out of nowhere Emma was at his side, the gun she held resting against his head. “There is no loud talking in my house.” She said in an oddly disturbed sounding voice. “Now say you’re sorry to my friend for your tone and for spitting at her. Do you know how many germs are in your spit? You really should be ashamed of your actions, mister. When my mother gets here she’s not going to be very unhappy with you.” The smile of an insane woman crossed her face.

 

“Get this loony tune away from me,” he growled.

 

“I’m afraid when she gets in this mood, Evan, there is no controlling her…sorry.” Cay said shrugging her shoulders.

 

The man’s anger grew into fury. “I know all about your daughter and where she is…I plan on adopting her as my own.”

 

Emma’s eyes blazed as she slowly slid the gun along the man’s head. “Do you think I don’t know where Claire is or how she is doing? The nun’s allowed you to send money for her, but they know she’s mine. You stupid old man, do you think I would let you get your hands on her? You’re nothing but pond scum just like your son! Now get yourself up out of that chair.” She put the barrel of the gun against his head and pulled back the trigger. “I said get up!”

 

The man finally stood up, but that wasn’t Cay’s concern. Who is this person? She wondered. Maybe she is mad just like I’ve heard. Her friend seemed out of control and totally unlike the perception Cay had of the woman. “Emma, what are you going to do?”

 

The rage burning in Emma’s eyes cooled when she looked at her friend. “I’m taking my life back, are you with me?”

 

Cay could see the determination on her friend’s face. She was neither deranged or out of control that was clear. Taking your life back indeed, its time you do that Emma. She thought as she nodded.

 

“Of course.” Cay said as she took Borland’s arm and led him struggling outside. Reaching in her pocket she took out her monitor and punched a few buttons to disarm the electricity. “Where are we going?”

 

Emma’s voice was hard and cold. “To the dock and his boat, we’re going for a little ride. Be sure you have your gloves on, Cay.”

 

Once the man was securely in the boat with no chance of escape, Emma whispered in Cay’s ear. “Will you go get my boat and take it out to that little patch of land? I’ll meet you there.”

 

Cay smiled as she found new respect for the once timid Emma Sanders. This experience was transforming her into a strong, decisive, vibrant woman. “I’ll see you there. Are you sure you’re okay alone?”

 

Emma nodded her head as she started the motor and her journey to justice. She sat in the boat until she heard Cay’s arrival then saw the small craft pull along side Borland’s boat.

 

“Tie your boat up on the stern then board this one.” Emma ordered. Once Cay was on board, she gunned the motor slightly to beach Borland’s boat. “Get him out, but you stay in the boat.”

 

Cay frowned at the order, but did as requested. Emma took a knife and gun from the dead man, stepped out of the boat into the water and with amazing strength pushed the man face down onto what was a small patch of land. Bending over the prone man, while she remained in the water, she cut the cloth tying his hands together and gathered up the pieces. He grabbed for her legs, but she quickly moved further back in the water all the while pointing Tony’s gun at the man.

 

Borland saw his opportunity when Emma handed Cay the rope pieces and was on his feet immediately, lunging at Emma. Calmly and coolly she shot his left knee sending him once again to the ground writhing in pain.

 

“Emma, what are you doing?” Cay asked. Her heart was pounding in her chest with fear raging in her mind for her friend.

 

“Just stay in the boat, Cay. If you don’t participate you can’t be blamed. I know exactly what I’m doing.” She said, moving back towards the boat. “Get my boat started.” She told Cay as the tall woman nimbly got in the boat. Then Emma took the dead man’s hand wrapping it around the gun before firing another round in Borland’s direction, causing the man to cover his head.

 

Emma took the opportunity to scramble into her own boat checking along the way that nothing of theirs was left behind. “Cay will you back up a bit, can’t leave his boat for him to get away.”

 

Cay did as she was asked and slowly backed up until the larger vessel was in the water. Emma leaned over, untied the knot of the rope and pulled it back into her boat noting that Borland was on his feet.

 

She threw Borland’s gun towards him. “I won’t leave you here defenseless, Mr. Borland.” She said as he dove for the gun before grabbing his knee in pain. “There is one bullet left…you have two choices you can use it on yourself or on the snakes that inhabit this little bit of land.” She said coldly.

 

“Or, I could use it on you, bitch.” He yelled as he felt the pain in his knee and the warmth of the blood running down his leg. Picking up his gun he once again leveled it at Emma’s head.

 

“Emma, get down before he shoots you!” Cay commanded.

 

“He won’t shoot me,” she said confidently.

 

“Get down!” screamed Cay.

 

Slowly, and with much delight Borland squeezed the trigger only to hear a click. “You bitch you said there was a bullet.” He cried out.

 

“There is,” Emma said softly. “Just not in the first chamber. Turning, she smiled at Cay. “Let’s go home.”

 

Cay smiled and slowly guided the boat back towards Emma’s house. Halfway there she took a cell phone out of her pocket and removed the battery then let it slip into the water.

 

“Why did you do that?” Emma asked. “How can I reach you now?”

 

“It was the phone I used to contact Borland. Don’t worry; I still have the one you call.”

 

They then continued across the lake on their way to home and safety.

 

* * * * * *

 

Early the next morning Emma was busy in her yard digging up the area where Tony was first shot. She worked the bloody grass into the dirt until it was no longer recognizable. Cay had removed the bullet from the floor, replaced and cleaned up the broken light bulb and was busy using bleach to clean off any blood on the dock or Emma’s boat. The barrel used for burning garbage was blazing with the week’s rubbish along with two pair of gloves and pieces of cloth.

 

“I’m all done here, Emma. I think I will go and dismantle the sensors and cameras.”

 

“Good idea.” Emma said with a knowing smile. “Before you do that will you bring me my hat from the house?” she asked.

 

“Yep.”

 

Emma was continuing to turn the soil when she heard a boat approaching her dock. Looking up, she saw it was Edward Nester, the sheriff, and his deputy, Pete Greenway. Steadying herself she gave the men a stern look. “What are you doing on my property?” She asked gruffly.

 

“Sorry to bother you ma’am, but did you notice anything unusual on the lake last night?” the sheriff asked.

 

Emma looked the man over and frowned. “My lake, last night? When?”

 

“Not sure yet, Ms. Emma. We found a boat back against the reeds in the refuge with a dead man in it…Hannah said she rented the boat to two men yesterday, I was wondering if you saw them since the boat was down here at this end and she said they were asking about you.”

 

“Me.” She said fearfully. “Someone was asking about me? Oh dear why are they asking about me? What do they want with me?” Panic written all over her face.

 

Cay chose that moment to return and went immediately to Emma’s side noting the small wink from the woman who appeared to be shaking uncontrollably. “Are you okay? What have you men done to her?” she accused.

 

The officers were completely taken off guard. “We didn’t do anything…we were asking about any goings on in the lake last night.” The sheriff offered.

 

“Last night? Hmm, well we played gin until about eight-thirty out on the porch and I don’t recall hearing anything.” She said as she patted Emma’s hand that was clutching tightly to her.

 

“Exactly who are you, miss?”

 

Cay held her hand out. “I’m Cay O’Neill, Emma’s friend, companion and caretaker. I live here.”

 

“Yes, yes she does.” Emma confirmed as her eyes were wildly searching the men. “Mother told me you’d come after me! Are you taking me back to the hospital?” she asked. “Please, don’t! My friend takes care of me,” she pleaded.

 

Just then a breeze blew in from the lake. Sniffing, Edward turned to his partner. “Pete, do you smell bleach?”

 

“Yep.” Pete said.

 

The sheriff was certain it was nothing to do with the crime, but he needed to ask anyway. “Ms. Emma why were you using bleach out here?”

 

A crazed look crossed Emma’s face as her eyes widened and her body became rigid. In a quavering voice she spoke. “Do you have any idea how many creepy, crawly slimy things are on that dock at night leaving behind their hideous droppings that could cause illness from the diseases they spread?” she said, clearly distressed by the thought. “My mother said it needed to be cleaned daily and if I don’t she’ll take a switch to me.”

 

“Now, Ms. Emma, there’s no need to get yourself all worked up, I know how neat and clean you are.” Sheriff Nester said in a placating voice. The woman had a reputation about being fanatical when it came to the summer visitors littering her property.

 

Tears began streaming down Emma’s face. “Well, if you know that…why are you here questioning me about cleaning my dock?” She said sniffling and wiping the tears from her face with the sleeve of her shirt.

 

Cay put an arm around her friend, “its okay, Emma, he is just doing his job.” She said quietly. “Did you take your medications today?”

 

Another look of horror crossed Emma’s face. “Oh, no I forgot, Mother is going to tan me for sure.”

 

Cay looked at the two men. “Do you have all the information you need? We go to bed pretty early around here and I didn’t hear anything unusual and we were up at five and saw nothing then either.”

 

“We’re finished here, but we’ll be back if we have any more questions.”

 

Just then a voice was heard over his walkie-talkie. “Hey, Sheriff, we found another body out here on Snake Island.”

 

“Okay, Rich, I’ll be right there.” Turning to Emma and Cay, he said, “Good day ladies.” Then tipped his hat and headed for his boat.

 

Once the boat was out of sight, Emma turned to Cay and laughed. “Did you ever hear that song that had a line that went something like this…it’s so nice to be insane you’re never asked you to explain?” Laughing again she took Cay’s arm. “I’m ready for a nice cup of tea. Will you join me?”

 

“Yes, you know we need to fill in that bullet hole and make it look like it was never there.” Cay said as they walked towards the house.

 

“No problem, I’ve had to repair the floor before from the wheelchair.”

 

As they entered the house, Cay sat down at the kitchen table while Emma put the kettle on. “Emma, will you tell me something?”

 

Emma turned around and smiled although a sense of trepidation fleetingly swept through her mind. “Okay.”

 

“Until yesterday you had no idea about Borland coming to kill you, but last night you acted like it was planned for a long time. How did you know what to do to cover your tracks? And, this insane act…we both know you are saner than most. Please help me understand.” Cay pleaded.

 

Sitting down on a chair next to Cay, Emma stared off out a window. “My mother was a controller…if things didn’t go her way or suit her mood there would be hell to pay. No matter how hard I tried I could never please her and she let me know just how much of a disappointment I was. I never went to school, did I tell you that?” Sighing deeply she continued. “She would take a switch to me on a regular basis telling me it was for my own good. After a while I got used to it…I had to or she would commit me again and believe it or not what she did to me was far better than at the hospital.” Emma paused for a moment as tears began to fall. “To answer your question, Cay, it was planned, but not for Mr. Borland it was for my mother. I hated her!”

 

Cay was out of her chair and placed a comforting arm around Emma.

 

Patting the hand on her shoulder, Emma continued to speak. “I hated my mother for all that she had put me through…for not loving me. After she died I went through her papers and found the birth certificate for my child and hundreds of pictures of her. My mother had made a deal with the nuns at the convent to care for my daughter and raise her in a Christian way. In turn, she gave them generous gifts of money and even the retreat they have on the lake. I hate her for that most of all! Keeping my child from me for the last seventeen years.”

 

“I’m sorry; I didn’t mean to bring back bad memories for you.”

 

A small smile came to Emma’s lips. “Cay, you saved my life and then had to participate in what I did to that man, you deserve answers.”

 

“Emma, I didn’t have to do anything, I could have walked away at any time, I could have alerted the authorities, but I did none of that. We are in this together, no matter what.”

 

* * * * * *

19

 

State police boats and helicopters filled the airways and boating lanes as the investigation into the two murdered men converged onto the lake. Daily, the repetitive tone of helicopter engines could be heard overhead as news teams hovered above hoping to scoop other stations for the big story.

 

Emma and Cay went about their normal business not changing their schedule at all. They could be seen sitting out on the lawn seemingly chatting amicably all the while they were intently watching the police comings and goings.

 

“Do you think they’re done yet?” Emma asked after the fourth day of investigations. “What else do you think they’re looking for?”

 

Cay patted her friend’s hand. “You need to be patient. By now they have identified Borland and know all about his business dealings and foul temper. He was also a prominent man in the city so they will want to be meticulous in their investigation.” She watched as a helicopter hovered over the small island with a cameraperson hanging precariously out the door. “Look at that idiot up there…what they won’t do to get the story.” She said shaking her head and laughing.

 

“Well, Cay, you know sometimes you just have to do what you must.” Emma said with a quirky smile.

 

Cay returned the smile. “Yes, I certainly know that.” Returning her gaze to the water, she saw a large state police boat heading towards the dock. “It looks like we’re about to have company.” She said lifting her head and nodding in the direction of the dock.

 

Emma glanced at the dock and saw the boat being tied up and several men exit the vessel. “Interesting,” she said, “looks like they have sent the militia to question little old me.”

 

“Indeed it does my friend. Are you ready?” Cay asked with concern.

 

Emma reached across and touched Cay gently. “I have been rehearsing for this moment most of my life. I’m ready. Let’s go see what they want.”

 

The officers, dressed in dark jumpsuits and vests with the letters SP in large white letters on their backs, stopped when the two women walked towards them. Emma’s facial expression became hard and cold. “Do you people know you are trespassing?” She said sternly.

 

Detective Mark Reigns had been with the state police for ten years, rising rapidly to become a detective. He was known for his tenaciousness in leaving no stone unturned in every investigation he participated. Ambition to rise higher in rank was he sole motivator; he just needed one big case to make that happen.

 

Sizing up the two ladies before him was an easy enough task. The one accusing them of trespassing had to be the owner Emma Sanders who was known to be rather bizarre. The other woman must be the saner of the two and the one he would have to talk with first.

 

“Ma’am, I’m Detective Reigns with the state police and I need to ask you some questions.” The tall, muscular man with a stern looking face said softly. “I’ll try not to take up too much of your time.”

 

Her eyes began to dart between the detective and the six others with him. “Why are you here?” She said cowering away from the men and retreating to Cay’s side.

 

The officer turned to Cay. “May I have a word with you, ma’am.” He said motioning her away from Emma.

 

As Cay began to move, Emma clung to her. “Please don’t go.” She cried out. “Mother will be so angry that these men are here.”

 

Cay turned towards Emma and held her hand gently. “Emma, I will just be over here. I promise I will be back in just a minute.” Her eyes were boring into Emma as if she were pleading for understanding.

 

Emma shook her head letting her hold on Cay go.

 

“What can I do for you Detective?” Cay said in a matter of fact way.

 

“Exactly what is your roll here, Ma’am?”

 

“I’m Emma’s companion and caretaker,” she said with a friendly smile. “Cay O’Neill.”

 

Satisfied with the answer he continued. “I understand from Sheriff Nester that Ms. Sanders is…well…a little on the excitable side. Do you think you can help me? It seems that your friend may have had a history with the man that was murdered. I just need to ask her a few questions to clear up any loose ends.” The detective said.

 

Cay had been around police enough to know it wasn’t what they said; it was what they didn’t say you needed to worry about. “I will do what I can, Detective Reigns, isn’t it?”

 

“Yes. I appreciate anything you can do to help.” He said smiling kindly.

 

“Let me speak with her for a moment and let her know what you want.”

 

“Certainly.” The man said as he watched Cay walk away. She seemed cooperative enough to him, but there was an edge to her he didn’t like. It was almost like she was playing a role and already knew why he was there and what he would say. Taking out his notebook he made a notation about Cay then watched the interaction between the two women as they spoke.

 

Strolling up to her friend, Cay winked. “Emma.” She said loud enough for everyone to hear. “These nice men are here to ask you some questions about those two men that died. Do you think you can answer their questions without being afraid?”

 

Emma’s eyes filled with fear. “I…I don’t know anything about anyone dying. Why do they want me to tell them something I don’t know about?”

 

Cay’s eyes narrowed. “Emma, listen to me.” she said slowly in a very firm voice. “No one is going to hurt you. Will you please try to listen to their questions?”

 

The look on Cay’s face told her something was up and she should tone it down a bit. “Yes, I will try.” She said with a quavering voice.

 

“Detective Reigns, she’s ready for you.” She said motioning the man over then noticing his men were snooping around the yard. “What are your people doing over there?” She demanded. “I thought you wanted to speak with her, you said nothing about the others traipsing around the gardens.” Her indignation was evident in her voice.

 

“Everyone, please come back over here.” He called out. “I’m sorry ma’am, no harm intended.”

 

“If any of the plantings are destroyed your office will get a bill for their replacement!” she said forcefully.

 

“By all means, again I apologize. I will speak with Ms. Sanders now.” He said, seemingly embarrassed by the turn of events. You want to play games, lady, bring it on because so can I.

 

Atta girl, Cay, the old diversion works every time. She though, inwardly she was patting her back. Whoa, slow down, remember everything is not always as it seems. Keep on your toes and don’t suppose.

 

The detective stood by Emma nervously. He always felt anxious when questioning people with mental problems and the other woman’s ranting about his team investigating the yard had worried him for it was illegal and he suspected the woman knew it too. “Ms. Sanders, do you know anything about the men who died here on the lake?” He asked in his calmest voice.

 

Emma studied the man’s face. His head was bald, shaved she suspected, his nose was straight and narrow along with slightly full lips. A thought crossed her mind wondering if he was of Egyptian descent as his features reminded her of those of the pharos. His body was firm and his muscular body was evident underneath the tight fitting jumpsuit. A formidable opponent, yet, in his eyes there was an uneasiness bordering on fear.

 

“Ms. Sanders, did you understand my question.”

 

“Oh, yes. I was trying to remember if the sheriff told us anything about the man. Now you say there is more than one…I had no idea. Did they drown in the lake?” She asked her face one of innocence.

 

“No, ma’am they didn’t drown. One of the men was Evan Borland he used to have a house on the lake about eighteen years ago. Do you remember him?”

 

Emma brought her hand to her face and wrapped it around her chin as she pursed her lips. “Borland? Hmm, there was a boy named Eric Borland that worked for my mother one year, but I don’t remember knowing an Evan Borland then.” She said honestly.

 

“Can you explain why he would be asking questions about you?”

 

Emma’s eyes opened wide in surprise. “He was?” she said in amazement.

 

“Yes, ma’am.” Detective Reigns said watching Emma’s face for her reactions.

 

Emma began rubbing her chin as her eyes narrowed. “My mother passed several months ago; maybe he was looking for her.” She said seriously before rubbing her chin again. “My mother was not a very nice woman and lots of her renters didn’t like her.” She looked up into the man’s deep brown eyes. “Did you know my mother?”

 

“No, no I didn’t, Ms. Sanders.” He said unnerved by the look the woman was giving him. He’d seen that look before in his mother’s eyes just before she was committed. “Ma’am, I understand your mother had Borland’s son arrested.” He hoped for a positive reaction from the strange woman.

 

Emma’s expression changed to one of confusion. “My mother? I don’t understand, did Sheriff Nester say that happened?” Hannah, she thought. The sheriff had only been there for ten years and all the records were expunged leaving the older woman the only one with any information.

 

“You have no recollection of an arrest concerning the victim’s son and your mother?” he pressed for an answer to his question. He saw no hint of the woman knowing what he was speaking of, but he needed to hear her denial before he would believe her.

 

Emma slipped her hand into her sweater pocket, felt for her phone and pressed the middle button. “What is this all about? You say my mother was arrested, no, no that can’t be. I must go to her! Why did you arrest her? I must get a lawyer. Cay, where is Cay?” Her eyes looked wildly about as she began to tremble.

 

Cay felt the vibration of her phone and immediately sought out Emma’s eyes. A nearly imperceptible nod was given as she moved towards her friend.

 

“No, ma’am I don’t think you understood…your mother wasn’t arrested, the son of Evan Borland, Eric was arrested.” The detective tried to explain wondering if the woman’s actions were legitimate.

 

“Excuse me,” Cay interrupted, “Detective, would you look at this flowerbed, it has been destroyed by these people!” she said motioning to the team of state police standing there. “I want your address and the name of your superior,” she said pausing to get the effect she wanted, “so I can send you the bill to have them all replaced and lodge a formal complaint!” she exclaimed in an agitated tone.

 

Emma looked at the flowerbed. “Oh no! My beautiful flowers look at them. Who could do such a cruel thing?” she cried out.

 

Detective Reigns’ face scrunched up in confusion at the other woman’s sudden appearance. “Ma’am, I’m afraid my team is responsible. I will pay for any damages.” He was losing control of the interview and that irritated him.

 

Emma turned to her friend. “Cay, do you see this?” She said pointing to the trampled flowerbed before looking around the rest of the property. “Oh no, look over there, those are ruined too.” She said in a mortified voice. “Are these strangers allowed to just trample over my property? I didn’t tell them they could. Oh, Cay, what are they doing here?” She began sobbing as she seemingly collapsed on the ground by the flowerbed.

 

“Now look what you’ve done!” Cay accused the detective as she bent down to comfort her friend.

 

“Please don’t die.” Emma cried out as her fingers were frantically trying to upright the fallen flowers.

 

“Ma’am, please.” Reigns pleaded. “I only have a few more questions.”

 

Emma appeared oblivious to the world around her as she scrounged around on the ground for twigs to prop up her flowers; her sobs close to inconsolable. “Oh, my poor babies…who could have hurt you like this?”

 

Reigns looked around the area noticing how clumsily his people searched the yard; an illegal search at that. Fortunately for him, neither of the women seemed to understand that fact although he suspected the O’Neill woman knew more than she let on. Obviously the woman at the grocery was wrong about the arrest, as there wasn’t supporting evidence. Looking down on the ground at the sobbing woman, seeming to be in her little world, he realized this was going downhill fast.

 

“Ladies, I’m sorry for any inconvenience we caused. Here is my card, please send me the bill for any damages my people caused.” He tipped his hat. “I may be talking with you again.” He said before turning to his men. “Let’s go.”

 

Emma remained on the ground unaware of the happenings around her. Cay crouched next to her in an apparent attempt to bring her back to reality as the state police boat pulled away and disappeared from view.

 

Collapsing onto the ground, Cay began laughing. Instantly Emma joined in as she allowed her body to relax on the soft green grass. Turning her head towards Cay she captured the blue eyes. “Thank you, my friend. I couldn’t have done this without your help.”

 

Cay smiled fondly towards her friend. “We made a great team.” She said as she laid her head on the grass and looked up at the bright blue sky. “Isn’t this a fabulous day?”

 

For some unknown reason fear gripped at Emma’s heart as she turned her head to look at her friend. “You’re leaving, aren’t you?” she said softly.

 

Lying on the soft, new grass of summer, Cay closed her eyes, reluctant to speak. Sighing she began, “Emma, I befriended you under false pretenses. Fortunately, for both of us, I saw the error of my ways or we might both be dead, instead of Borland. My betrayal can’t be forgotten or erased…I’m ashamed and I don’t think I can get past that.” Opening her eyes she turned to look at the woman next to her. “I need to move on with my life.”

 

Emma felt her world collapsing around her as she scrambled in her mind for something to say to make Cay stay. Finally she spoke hoping to buy enough time until she could figure out what to do. “Cay, please don’t go yet, what if the police come back.” She said softly.

 

Cay listened to the plaintive words of her friend. I don’t want to leave, I’m happy here, but how can I stay? “I don’t think they will be back, we saw to that just now.” She said smiling broadly.

 

Emma laughed. “We did, didn’t we? Did you see the look on his face when you said you wanted his superior’s name, which he never gave I might add?” She reached over and took Cay’s hand. “Why don’t you stay for a bit longer…I still need those database lessons and you did promise to help me set up a computer? And, we won’t be finished with the Borland business until the police leave and the case is closed.”

 

Cay squeezed her friend’s hand. “For a bit then…at least until you know all about databases and we know the case is closed.”

 

* * * * *

20

 

The State Police boat with Detective Reigns and his team, eased into a slip at Jones’ Landing. The detective wanted to speak with Hannah Beard and get her take on the two strange women living near the crime scene. He would readily admit that the Sanders woman unnerved him, but the other one, Cay O’Neill, he was sure she had a story to tell. Exiting the boat, he walked along the gently moving dock, deep in thought, oblivious of the mass of news media moving towards him.

 

“Detective Reigns, have you found any more evidence?”

 

“Are you going to make an arrest?”

 

“Was this mob connected?”

 

“What can you tell us about the condition of the bodies? Did you get the autopsy results?”

 

“Do you have any suspects?”

 

He heard them speaking long before he realized the reporters were there. His eyes searched the hoard of hands holding out microphones and the cameras seemingly in his face and wondered what to say that would placate them for the time being. Holding his hand up, he moved closer to the crowd.

 

“Right now we are still in the middle of an ongoing investigation and it wouldn’t be prudent of me to comment at this time. Thank you.” He said forcibly as his team surrounded him pushing past the reporters.

 

Arriving at the top of the hill, Reigns called the head crime scene investigator over. “Have you found anything new out there on the island?” He asked the pretty blonde woman, Jill Wakeley.

 

“We covered every inch, Mark, and there’s nothing new. I just got the preliminary autopsy on Borland and it seems he died from the bullet to his head although they did find numerous snakes bites over his entire body. The other man died from a shot to his heart; that one originated from the back.”

 

“In the back? Did we recover the bullet?” Something wasn’t right and he knew it.

 

The woman flipped through pages before answering. “Yep, a thirty-five millimeter from Borland’s gun.”

 

“What about the bullets in Borland? Where did they come from?” he asked unable to shake the feeling that the pieces were somehow not right.

 

“The one in his knee came from Giovanni’s gun and the one in his head came from his own gun.”

 

“He killed himself? Doesn’t that seem strange to you? The other guy is dead, why didn’t he just get in the boat and dump the body? It just doesn’t add up, Jill.”

 

The woman frowned at the Detective’s quandary. “Sure it does, the evidence tells us exactly what happened. “Borland fired the first shot, probably an argument over the drug stash we found in the boat. We think Borland took Giovanni to the island to leave him there; he knew about the snakes since he once lived here. Only it backfired leaving Borland on the island instead. Then Giovanni shot him in the knee so he couldn’t follow and when he turned to leave Borland shot him in the back.”

 

“But, how did the boat leave the island and why didn’t Borland get in it?” Reigns asked.

 

“Look, Mark there was only one set of footprints on the island and those were Borland’s. He was shot in the knee and bled heavily and no doubt it was very painful; he probably passed out. While he was out the waves kept releasing the boat more and more until it finally was free from the island. You know, it was only on the island less that a foot, it wouldn’t take much to set it free and there was a full moon that night. When Borland came to he saw the boat gone and the snakes close by…I figure he started slashing out at the snakes and they retaliated by biting him. He knew he was finished and would rather die fast than slow so he shot himself. What other explanation can there be, there’s no evidence leading us anywhere else.” She said exasperated by Reign’s insistence that something else happened.

 

“I know, I know, but it just seems all too neat and tidy for me. What about that woman the Vic was asking about? The sheriff said when he questioned her the next day she admitted to cleaning her dock off with bleach…that sounds like other evidence to me. And, we haven’t accounted for all the bullets.”

 

“Just what is your problem anyway, Mark?” Her irritation with the man was becoming evident. “That woman is known to be mentally unstable, reclusive and very peculiar, how could you even in your wildest dreams think she would have anything to do with this?” Her were arms waving wildly in the air.

 

Reigns didn’t understand how Jill’s scientific mind could overlook the evidence. “What’s wrong with you, Jill? I’m giving you a viable option and you refuse to even check it out or consider the possibility.” He said looking around at the press coming up the hill.

 

Jill leveled her eyes squarely on Detective Reigns. “Now you listen to me, you arrogant SOB, all the evidence leads to only two participants and they are both dead. I know how to do my job and I do a damn good one, so don’t you ever again intimate that I am not doing my job correctly!” she was poking him in the chest. “Get it?”

 

The detective grabbed the woman’s hand. “Stop that and keep your voice down, don’t you see the press coming this way?”

 

“Good let them come, I will give them a statement and have this case closed and let this town get back to normal.” Her eyes on fire as the anger continued to grow in her.

 

“Listen to me, I’m in charge here and I say when it is closed so back off!” His eyes pinned on the approaching cameras and microphones.

 

“No, I’m in charge, it is me that you report to and it’s me that says when the evidence says the case is over.” Jill's temper trying to get the best of her. “We’re done here! You finish up and be done with it!” she ordered.

 

“Me and my team will finish up when I say we are. Now, shut up and keep it that way!”  He growled. “I’m going to interview the store owner again.”

 

Jill watched the tall man walk away. Why do we always have to knock him over the head before he looks at the facts? He always thinks there is a sinister motive in every case he’s on. This isn’t a television show. Shaking her head she turned towards her group. “Well, guys, it looks like the detective isn’t satisfied.”

 

Everyone moaned.

 

“He’s never satisfied! Damn, do we have to stay in this backwater town another night?” One of the men asked.

 

“No, our work here is done, there’s nothing left to find. Let’s go home.” Jill said with a smile as they all began to walk towards their vehicles.

 

As Mark Reigns entered the grocery he instructed his men to make sure no reporters got inside. His long strides took him quickly to the lunch counter and Hannah.

 

The older woman saw the detective approaching her as a slight shiver went through her body. On their previous meeting she happily gave him all the information he requested. Now, she wondered if that had been the right thing to do. He was so full of questions about Emma; no one in their right minds would think she was involved in killing, but that is exactly what she thought he was after. Emma is one of us and I won’t allow this stranger to go after her like that…or Cay either. Today I keep what I know to myself!

 

“Ma’am, do you have a moment to speak with me?” he asked as he noticed the lunch patrons looking at him. “Privately.” He added.

 

Hannah was all smiles; she loved being the center of attention and the opportunity to learn more about the dead men. “Why of course, Detective, we can go into the office.”

 

Reigns followed the woman into a small, crammed room that would better serve as a broom closet than an office. “Thank you, Mrs. Beard. I won’t take up much of your time.”

 

Hannah raised her hand and waved it in the air. “You take all the time you need, my husband can tend to the customers.” Her face glowed happily.

 

“I visited with Emma Sanders earlier and she has no recollection of the Borland boy being arrested. Are you certain of your facts?” The woman seemed to be a bevy of knowledge and he was counting on her for some answers.

 

Hannah looked at the man intently before answering. “Well, let me see now.” She said stalling. What do I tell him? I’ve got to make him think I’m daft or something... She thought before speaking again. “It was a long time ago…I was here when Sheriff Collins got the call. Hmm.” She said.

 

“Do you know where Sheriff Collins is now?” Reigns asked.

 

“Sure do, he’s down at the memorial park, he died about six years ago.” Hannah replied. “I suppose you could check at the sheriff’s office for records.

 

“I did.” He said coolly knowing there was no record of the arrest or the incident. “This O’Neill woman living out there, she doesn’t seem like the companion type.” He left it open hoping the older woman would fill in the story.

 

“Oh, Cay, isn’t she a lovely person?” Hannah said smiling. Initially she suspected Cay’s motives when she move in with Emma, but she saw the change in Emma and how happy she was now. “She and Emma are very good friends. I was glad when she moved out there, Emma shouldn’t live alone…she has problems you know?”

 

“Ma’am, do you know why Mr. Borland wanted to find Ms. Sanders?” Mark asked annoyed by the woman’s lack of cooperation.

 

“Not really, he wasn’t askin’ about Emma, just the family,” she answered honestly, “he came in to rent a boat and get a sandwich. My husband recognized him and they passed the time for a while over cups of coffee. Then they placed an order and I made the sandwiches, when I gave him the bag with the food he asked if the Sanders still lived on the lake. I told him ‘yes’ and then he paid me and left with his friend. That’s all I know…oh I do remember the look on his face, real sour, kind of scary if you ask me. You could talk to my husband, Zach, maybe he knows more.” She said dismissing the detective. “I’ll go get him.”

 

Passing her husband, Hannah spoke softly. “Watch what you say to that man.”

 

Reigns didn’t know what to make of the old woman. Two days ago she was the town gossip full of information and now she really had nothing to say. He heard the footsteps of the shopkeeper; maybe he can give me something solid. He thought as Zachariah Beard came into view. “Hello, Mr. Beard.” He said holding his hand out to the man.

 

Zach looked at the outstretched hand then at his own filled with flour. “Hope you don’t mind if I don’t shake, ‘less you want to get flour all over that there blue outfit.” He said.

 

Mark withdrew his hand, “No problem. I was wondering if you recalled any more of the conversation you had with Mr. Borland and his friend.”

 

Zach began twirling his moustache leaving flour all over his cheek, as he tried to recall the conversation. “Well, let’s see. I outfitted him with a boat, gas, cushions, tackle and bait. He asked if the lake was the same as when he used to live here and I remember tellin’ him that there was more people. He sort a laughed and said something like he hoped not yet. I tole him not yet and he said good he didn’t like people watchin’ him or somethin’ like that. Then he asked how the fish were biting and I said it was startin’ to pick up.” He paused while he continued stroking his moustache. “Ya know, come to think of it, that friend of his was sure strange.”

 

“He was? In what way?” the detective asked trying to contain his excitement. At last he might be on to something.

 

“Well.” The old man said hesitating. “It seemed as though he really didn’t want to go with Borland it like he was real afraid of him, his eyes kapt lookin’ all around like he was lookin’ for a way out.” He looked around the small office. “This ain’t much of place is it?”

 

“Sir did the other man do or say anything else that you can remember? Its really important.”

 

Shaking his head, Zach said, “Nope.” As he began to go back to work he turned around. “When they got in the boat, the other man said somethin’ about not wantin’ to be there and the Borland fella told him he better watch out if he knew what was good fer him…or somethin’ like that. Anyways, I gotta get to work.”

 

Reigns stood there dumbfounded all the information lead to Jill’s conclusions. “This can’t be! I’m missing something, but what.” He said to the room before leaving. Going outside he looked around for the Jill and the forensic team. “Hey, Hal, where’s Jill?” he asked of another officer.

 

“They packed up and left, said there was nothing more for them to do here.”

 

“Shit!” the detective whispered under his breath. “Gather everyone up and meet me in my room.” He ordered before heading for his vehicle.

 

Once in his room, Reigns started his laptop and connected to the Internet. Bringing up the state police database he typed in, Kay O’Neill. Anxiously he waited until the list began to appear and he started reading all the stats on the thirty-five names. He found five possibilities and searched each one extensively. “Damn!” he blurted out. Not one of the entries seemed to match the lady in question. Then he began searching for Catherine or Katherine and other variations of the name still he found nothing remotely close to the woman he met earlier.

 

An hour later the state police team crowded into Detective Reigns’ motel room. A packet, containing all of the findings about the murders was handed out to each.

 

“I want you all to go over this information and let me know if you agree or disagree with the findings. You need to read with the eye of an investigator…look for what’s not there and ask yourself if it is important.” He implored them. “My gut tells me there is more to this that is on the surface…we need to find what that is.”

 

All the eyes around the room rolled as they all began looking over the evidence once again.

 

* * * * * *

 

It was Thursday and shopping day for Emma and Cay.

 

“Want me to drive?” Cay asked as they started for the door.

 

Emma smiled. “Do you mind if we walk?”

 

Opening the door Cay allowed Emma to exit first. “Not at all I really would like to walk there instead of run.” She said laughing.

 

“Well, come on then, it’s a really lovely walk.” Emma said striding up the drive.

 

It was a lovely walk. The morning was crisp and promised bright blue skies and a wonderful day ahead. The birds were singing, heralding in the new day, as the wind blew a gentle breeze making the trees sway, and their new leaves rustling.

 

Emma stopped at the spot where she fell and cut her leg. “I want to see if I can find what I cut my leg on.” She said as she looked around the area.

 

“Probably was a piece of glass or something like that and is long gone by now.” Cay said as she crouched down to scan the tall grasses.

 

“You’re probably right, but I wanted to look anyway. Guess that is kind of dumb isn’t it?” Her face began to turn red.

 

Cay looked up at her friend shielding her eyes from the sun. “No, it isn’t, besides it is a great day and we aren’t in a hurry are we?”

 

Emma laughed. “No we certainly aren’t.”

 

Standing up, Cay laughed along with the woman next to her. “Would you like to have something to eat at the store?” Her eyes diverted from her friend to the flashing lights of the car stopping along side the dirt road. “Its show time.” She whispered.

 

Emma turned around to see Detective Reigns getting out of his car. “This is getting ridiculous.” She said under her breath as she moved backwards towards Cay.

 

Cay patted Emma’s shoulder as the man drew near. “It’s okay, there’s nothing to be afraid of.”

 

“Ladies.” The man tipped his hat. “May I be of assistance? Did you lose something or are you putting something there?” He said accusingly.

 

Emma moved behind Cay and peered at the man while looking over her friend’s shoulder.

 

“Let’s go, Emma.” Cay said as she took hold of the cart and began moving up the road.

 

“Excuse me ladies, I didn’t tell you to go.” Reigns chided.

 

Cay’s eyes narrowed then she turned around and took Emma’s hand. “Emma,” she said softly, “I want you to go on to the store now.”

 

Not understanding her friend, Emma shook her head no. “I can’t leave you here alone, it isn’t safe.” She cried.

 

Cay began to squeeze the hand she was holding. “Please, go to the store and wait, I’ll be there shortly.” She said sternly.

 

An imperceptible message passed between them and Emma took hold of the basket and started towards the store.

 

“Where are you going?” The detective demanded.

“Emma, just go he can’t stop you.” Watching her friend move quickly down the road, Cay looked squarely at Reigns. “I don’t know what your problem is, but I do object to your harassing Emma in the way you have!” she said in a low threatening voice.

 

“Ma’am, I’m afraid you’re mistaken, I haven’t harassed anyone.” He had seen people like this one before…so full of self-importance that they think they could cry foul and the whole justice department would stop. Not this time, not on my watch!

 

“If you have something to say or accusation to make then do so, otherwise leave her alone! Just be sure you have proof of your accusations!” Cay’s anger was growing.

 

“I know you and that…friend of yours had something to do with the deaths of Evan Borland and Tony Giovanni and I won’t stop till I find out what! You can’t bully me or threaten me so stop trying.” He said confidently.

 

 “Well, unless it is suddenly against the law to walk to the store, I’m leaving and there is nothing you can do.” She gave him one last look nodding as she headed for the store.

 

Emma anxiously paced up and down the aisles as she waited for her friend to arrive. The door opened and in walked Cay, looking confident and happy. She greeted Hannah with a hug. “Hi, how are you doing, I miss seeing you.” She said making the older woman feel important.

 

“I’ll be glad when all these folks leave…it’s good for business, but they are all so loud and messy.” Just then two men came in laughing and slapping each other on the back. “See what I mean.” Hannah said as she watched the two men sit at the lunch counter. “I’ll speak with you before you go.” She said patting Cay’s arm.

 

Looking around the store as bright smile came to her face as she saw Emma’s head peeking over the shelves. “There you are.” Cay said as she walked towards her friend.

 

“Cay is everything okay, I’ve been so worried!” Emma said frantically.

 

Cay was touched by her friend’s concern. “I’m fine; you must remember that I have experience in the law enforcement field. He had no right to stop us or prevent us from proceeding.” Looking in the basket she frowned. “Broccoli! Emma you’re kidding right?”

 

Emma didn’t know what to make of Cay’s comment. “Why, have I done something wrong?” her voice full of apprehension.

 

Laughing, Cay picked the offending vegetable. “I’m not particularly fond of this.”

 

“Oh, do you want me to put it back?” Emma still didn’t understand what the problem was.

 

“No.” Cay said as she put it back. “I was joking with you.”

 

Emma’s face turned red. “Oh.”

 

“Come on, let’s finish up here, I think I hear the lake calling us.”

 

The walk back home was quiet as each woman was lost in her own thoughts. Finally the silence was broken when Emma grabbed Cay’s arm and stopped walking.

 

“Emma, is something the matter?” Cay asked noticing the anxious look on her friend’s face.

 

Hazel eyes misted over. “Will this ever be over or will that detective keep hounding us forever?”

 

“Listen to me; I won’t let him continue to harass you. He has nothing concrete to go on and if he continues to come after us I will call his superiors and lodge a complaint.” Cay looked at her friend and saw doubt there. “I promise I will take care of it. You trust me don’t you?”

 

“Of course I trust you, Cay, but I did this and maybe I should just…”

 

“We did it together and no there is nothing to be done about anything.” Cay said firmly. “Now, what do you say we go home and have a nice lunch then think about walking through the refuge? I’ve never done that and I bet you can show me all sorts of wonderful discoveries there.” She said smiling as they began to walk again.

 

Emma’s eyes brightened. “Oh, I’d love that, the refuge is so gorgeous this time of the year.”

 

“Good, it is settled.”

 

* * * * * *

 

Mark Reigns paced back and forth in his small motel room. The meeting with his team came up empty in finding additional information. Although the case seemed clear cut, he knew there was more to the story and that the two weird women were involved. “But, how?” he asked himself through the mirror. “Those two women are nuts enough to have killed them both…and, that backwater rube of a sheriff wouldn’t know a viable clue if it fell into his hands.

 

The O’Neill woman could prove to be a problem if the way she acted on the road was any indication. If I could just get that Sanders bitch alone I know I could make her sing. Shit, how am I going to pull this off?

 

Shuffling through the stack of papers he came upon the first report when the bodies were found. He looked over the notes regarding the sheriff’s conversation with the two women, which he had read at least a hundred times. “If I stretch it, I could probably make the washing of the dock with bleach the morning after a murder into probable cause.”

 

He tapped the table with his pen for a long time before picking up the phone and calling Sheriff Nester. “Sheriff, this is Mark Reigns, I’ve been looking over your reports and have some questions regarding the Sanders woman cleaning her dock off with bleach.”

 

“Sure go ahead.” The sheriff replied.

 

“Didn’t you think it was coincidental? You wrote that it was normal behavior for the woman, how did you know that? Did you have independent confirmation of this?”

 

“Detective, you need to understand this is a small town and everyone knows each other’s business. Ms. Emma is fragile and wouldn’t hurt anything…she is also very phobic and that is why she is fanatical about cleanliness. Have I seen her cleaning her dock before? No, but that doesn’t mean she hasn’t…in fact I find it entirely believable.”

 

“Am I to understand you have no confirmation at all that this has happened in the past?” the detective pressed the issue.

 

“No, I don’t.” the sheriff answered. He didn’t like the man’s intrusion into his investigation.

 

“Then, it seems to me that we have enough for probable cause and can legally search the premises. You and your deputy meet me at my hotel and we will go out there together and conduct a search.” Reigns ordered.

 

“But…” The sheriff began.

 

“No buts just get your ass over here!” Reigns said slamming the phone down.

 

Today, I will solve the big one and my career will soar. He thought whistling while he put on his vest and State Police jacket. Yep, today I’m going to make a name for myself.

 

* * * * *

 

The two women walked down the long driveway towards the house. They bought all the groceries they would need for the week along with some bait for fishing.

 

“Cay, do you think we should take some sandwiches with us when we go fishing?” Emma asked as she looked up through the trees to the bright blue sky. “I think we should go later on this afternoon and we could have dinner while we fish.”

 

“Sounds good to me, it should be a fun afternoon with visiting the refuge and going fishing, I hope we catch something today.” She said as they ambled on towards the house.

 

Emma jumped and moved to the side when she heard the sound of automobile wheels crunching the gravel. Turning, she saw flashing red lights coming from several cars. “Cay, what’s this all about?” She said to her friend who was standing her ground.

 

“I’m not sure, but we will find out.” Her eyes searched her friend’s. “Are you okay?”

 

“Yes.”

 

Cay spoke quickly. “Go in the house and don’t let anyone in.” The cars stopped and men were getting out.

 

Emma’s eyes grew wide when she saw Detective Reigns and Sheriff Nester surrounded by what seemed like a dozen men. She wasn’t about to go inside and leave her friend outside to deal with this alone. “What is this all about?” She demanded. “You’re trespassing on my property, leave at once.”

 

“Now, Ms. Emma, its okay, we need to look around your property.” The sheriff said quietly trying to placate the woman. “That will be okay with you won’t it?”

 

Detective Reigns came forward and stood close to Emma, towering over her in an intimidating fashion. “Don’t be so nice, Sheriff, we have every right to search the yard and house.” He was sneering at Emma as he spoke in a menacing growl.

 

Emma began to cower in genuine fear of the man. “C…Cay.” She whimpered.

 

For someone who stood only five foot five, Cay seemed larger than life as she moved in between Emma and the detective. Her blue eyes pierced the man as they narrowed into slits. “You better have paper.” She snarled.

 

“The Detective straightened his back. “We have reason to believe you two women were involved in the deaths of Evan Borland and Tony Giovanni and we are here to search the property and house.” He said with confidence.

 

“Emma, please go inside and lock all the doors.” She implored her friend.

 

“No.” Emma said softly determined to remain by her friend’s side.

 

Cay turned towards Sheriff Nester; he seemed the most reasonable. “Sheriff, do you have a search warrant?”

 

“No, but we do have probable cause and the detective said that gave us the right to search.”

 

Cay’s eyes held the detective captive as she took out her cell phone and dialed. “Hi, its Cay is he in?” she said to whoever answered the phone. “I’m doing fine, Page, and yourself? Okay, thank you.” Her eyes narrowed and her face was grim as she waited for the person she called. Finally she heard the familiar friendly voice of her uncle.

 

“Cay, how are you doing, this is a pleasant surprise. Its so good to hear your voice.” Her uncle said happily.

 

“Uncle Patty, its good to hear your voice too. Say, listen I’m having some difficulty with one of your detectives.”

 

“Which one, sweetheart?”

 

“His last name is Reigns.”

 

Detective Reigns eyes opened wide. Patrick O’Neill, the head of the state police is her uncle! He moaned inwardly.

 

“Cay, are you involved with that business at the lake?”

 

“Nope, but your detective here seems to think I am along with my friend Emma Sanders. He is at her house now saying he is going to search the house and property without paper.”

 

“He’s doing what!” Her uncle said loudly into the phone. “Just a minute, I have the report right here let me take a look.” He said as he put the phone down to review the details.

 

While she waited, Cay’s face took on a sinister look as if to tell the detective, you’re going down.

 

“Cay, from what the forensics and other evidence show this is an open and shut case. Did you say Detective Reigns thinks you had something to do with it?”

 

“Yes, that is what he just told me. He also conducted an illegal search on my friend’s property causing damage too.”

 

“Cay, darling, will you be a dear and let the detective use your phone for a moment?” her uncle said with his Irish brogue.

 

“Sure thing.” She said then handed her cell to the detective. “He would like to speak with you.” She said with a smirk.

 

Taking the phone, Reigns listened for a moment then handed it back to the woman.

 

“Thanks, Uncle Patty, we’ll speak again real soon.” Cay closed her phone and looked directly at the sheriff. “You have no right to search without a warrant…this detective gave you bad advice. Will you please take these people and leave the property.”

 

“Of course, ma’am.” He said as he motioned to the others to leave. He didn’t like Reigns and was glad he was finally put in place and would be leaving his town.  “We’ll go now, please accept my apologies.”

 

Reigns stood there dumbfounded; he was defeated and disgraced; yet he knew he was right. “You two be very careful because eventually you’ll to give yourselves away…then I will be vindicated.”

 

The sheriff had Reigns by the arm. “Come on, you’ve done enough damage, threatening these women in front of all these witnesses isn’t helping you at all.”

 

Reigns wrestled his arm free. “I’m going,” he said leering at Cay.

 

Standing next to each other, Emma and Cay watched as the police vehicles left the property. “What are we going to do?” Emma wondered aloud.

 

“We go on living,” said Cay quietly, “There is nothing for him to find.”

 

* * * * * *

21

 

The weeks of summer flew by as the two women fell into a comfortable routine. Cay became ‘keeper’ of the southern part of the lake encouraging sightseers to stay away from Snake Island and Emma’s domain. Emma purchased a Skidoo for Cay to use in her ‘keeper’ activities and it paid off. It was the first summer that Emma could remember not being chided by the lakes temporary teenagers.

 

“Cay,” Emma said as she sat down in the comfortable white, Adirondack chair on the lawn, “I can’t remember a more pleasant summer.” Her was face beaming with a smile. “Thank you.”

 

“For what?”

 

“For coming into my life and being my friend.”

 

Cay looked out to the shimmering water that reflected the trees and the clouds. “I need to go home for a few days, it’s my mother’s birthday and I said I’d be there.” She turned her head towards Emma. “Will you come with me?”

 

A look of sheer panic crossed Emma’s face when she heard the words; I need to go home for a few days. Cay was leaving and the very thought sent ripples of fear coursing through her mind. “You’re leaving?” she said softly.

 

Cocking her head, Cay’s face scrunched in question. “Emma, I asked you to go with me. We’d leave together.”

 

“Do you mean we’d go away for overnight? Oh, Cay, I don’t think I can do that…leave my home for that long.” Her voice was trembling.

 

Slamming her hand down on the arm of the chair, Cay stood up. “Emma Sanders that is the stupidest thing I think I have ever heard you say! Why on earth couldn’t you leave your home for that long?”

 

“I’m scared, Cay, the only time I ever left here was in an ambulance to the psychiatric hospital.” She cried out softly.

 

Cay knelt down next to her friend. “Are you the same person that defended her home against a man that broke in intent on killing us? Who coolly and brilliantly did what she had to do to keep us safe. And, now she’s afraid to leave her house for two days! Ridiculous Emma, ridiculous!”

 

Emma laughed as she saw humor written all over her friend’s face. “I’m being kind of silly aren’t I?”

 

“Just a little.” Cay said smiling broadly. “Will you come with me?”

 

“Yes, I’d love to. Thanks for asking.” she said with apprehension.

 

Cay let out a hearty laugh. “Emma, they’re just people, plain ordinary people…a lot of them, but just people. I think you and my mom will hit it off and as for my dad he comes across as kind of rough, but he is a softy.”

 

Emma held her hand up. “I know, I know, but you have to understand where I’m coming from, for most of my life it’s been just me and my mother. But, as you said I did defend us against Borland, so this should be easy.”

 

“Atta girl.” Cay said. “Need any help taking the laundry off the line?”

 

“I can use some help, yes.” Getting up from her chair she smiled. “Let’s go.”

 

* * * * * *

 

Emma couldn’t believe her eyes as they drove down the street Cay’s family lived on. Cars parked along one side of the street made it virtually one way, while children darted in and out of the brownstones. Row after row of homes lined the street with a barely visible alley between them. Small patches of grass surrounded by wrought iron and separated by walkways, added to the charm of the mostly Irish section of the city. The bustling sights and myriad of sounds were nothing like she could ever have imagined a city being. Emma thought she must feel like a child on Christmas Day, wanting to take in everything; amazed by the wonder of it all.

 

“There it is, Emma, my home.” Cay said with joyful pride.

 

Looking at the house, Emma noticed the only thing that distinguished it from the others was the large ‘O’ woven into the wrought iron gate. “Cay, there aren’t any parking spaces. Is there a garage or something?”

 

“Not to worry, I see there’s one set aside for me.” Stopping her car, she put it in park, jumped out, and walked towards two worn, woven lawn chairs taking up a parking spot. Folding them up she carefully set the against the wrought iron fencing.  Running back to the car she expertly pulled it into the small area.

 

Emma was speechless as she watched Cay’s antics. Once the car was parked, Cay turned towards her friend. “Are you ready to meet my family?”

 

Taking a deep breath, Emma replied, “I guess so. Do I look okay?”

 

“Come on, get out of the car. You look fine, remember they are just people like you and I.”

 

Walking up to the gate, Emma noticed the statue of the Virgin Mary and the well kept flowerbeds and smiled. “It looks like someone here has a green thumb.” Her hand was gesturing towards the flowers.

 

“My mom is in charge of the front, my dad the back…see I told you that you would have something in common.” Cay opened the gate and the both walked in. Immediately the front door opened causing Emma to step back in fear.

 

“A ghrá mo chroí! (Love of my heart).” Said in the soft Irish brogue of a short round woman with graying hair wearing a dress covered by an apron.

 

“Mama, we finally made it. Happy birthday!” she said presenting her mother with a large bouquet of flowers.

 

“I’ve been waiting for you.” Cay’s mother said as she hugged her daughter close. “A ghrá mo chroí! (Love of my heart),” she whispered before releasing Cay and turning towards Emma. “You must be Emma. Come in, come in and make yourself at home.” The joyous sounding voice said

 

“Thank you, Mrs. O’Neill and happy birthday.” She said tentatively not really knowing how to react or what to say.

 

“Annie, child my name is Annie, you’ll be meetin’ Mrs. O’Neill in a wee bit…just be careful around her, she’ll be tellin’ you all sort of stories and most of them are blarney.”

 

As they walked inside the house, Emma wasn’t prepared for what came next…

 

What seemed like a hoard of people moved towards the women all smiling and seemingly talking at once. Emma found herself kissed and hugged by each person as they welcomed her. Never in her life had she felt so loved or wanted although she reverted to her old ways and really wanted to run and wash all the germs off. What a strange feeling. The strangest thing of all is I didn’t mind…I welcomed it. This must be what it feels like to have a family.

 

She felt the arm of her friend around her shoulders. “Did you meet everyone?” Cay said blissfully, happy to be home.

 

Emma’s eyes were wide. “I think so, but I don’t think I can remember everyone’s name.” She admitted.

 

“Don’t worry you will by the time we leave. Come on, I want you to meet my papa, he’s out back.”

 

Walking through the comfortable home, Emma felt the love all around her. Pictures of the family were adorning tables and walls everywhere she looked. The home wasn’t immaculate, but that didn’t seem important for it was lived in and more importantly, happiness was evident. Emma sighed as she began to realize all that she had missed in her life.

 

Following Cay through the warm friendly kitchen, out into the sun porch and then down the steps Emma was amazed when she first set eyes on the backyard. How can this be in the middle of a city? The yard was immaculately kept with soft green grass, the kind that cushions your feet and feels like velvet under your bare feet. Flowerbeds filled with a variety of fragrant vegetation lined either side of the chain link fence surrounding the area. Trellises stood by the garage with beautiful red roses in full bloom growing up them. By the back of the house was a garden with lettuce and tomatoes growing in abundance.

 

“Papa.” Cay cried out as she hugged the man. “This is my friend, Emma Sanders.”

 

“Welcome young lady, I’m glad you could come and celebrate with us today.” He said as he engulfed Emma in a hug.

 

Her face became crimson as she stepped away from the man. “Thank you.” was all she could manage to say. “Did you grow the roses?”

 

Sean O’Rielly took her by the arm and led her over to the trellises by the garage. “These are my pride and joy,” he said before turning towards his daughter, “along with my dear daughter.”

 

Emma closed her eyes and breathed in the delightful scents as she gently touched the fragrant roses. “These are beautiful, Mr. O’Neill.”

 

“I’ll have none of that Mr. O’Neill young lady, my proper name is Sean.”

 

She liked the older man who wasn’t much taller than his daughter was, but like her, his body was lean and strong. “Thank you, Sean.” She said hesitantly. “I see we share the love of flowers.”

 

“Ah, they are where great happiness and joy fills the world. If only people would take the time to stop what there doing and see and feel the beauty around them.” Said the man who had seen killing and death in his everyday life. “This is where I find peace.”

 

“This is where you drink your beer, Papa, who are you tryin’ to fool.” Cay said laughingly as she wrapped her arms around her father.

 

“Hey, darlin’, you’ll be given all my secrets away.” He said engulfing his daughter in his arms.

 

It wasn’t long before Emma found herself gravitating towards the kitchen and Annie O’Neill. “Are you making your own birthday dinner?  May I help you?”

 

“I can always use an extra pair of hands.” She said looking Emma up and down. “From the looks of you, my Cay must be doing the cooking. You need some meat on those bones.”

 

Emma blushed. “Have you ever tasted your daughter’s cooking?”

 

“Why do you think I’m cooking this meal? She doesn’t know how.”

 

Laughing Emma answered. “I know. I do all the cooking. What would you like me to do?”

 

“Well you could help by peeling the potatoes…it won’t be long before all the daughters-in-law and my sisters and aunts will be crowding in here helping too.” Annie said laughing. “The cookin’ of the meal becomes a family affair around here.”

 

Three hours later thirty-five people were sitting at various tables around the house filling their stomachs with the scrumptious fare. Cay and Emma sat at the main table with Cay’s parents, various aunts, uncles, and Cay’s grandmother. Grandmother O’Neill was quite remarkably fit and spry for someone that was ninety-three years old.

 

Both Cays’ mother and grandmother made sure Cay sat between them. Emma watched the exchange between the women and was envious of their relationship. At the same time she was filled with sadness for what could have been and that, which was lost. Listening to the sounds of the people sitting around the table and throughout the house she drifted back to a time when her family would sit together having an evening meal. For the first time in all the years since the fire she remembered the last meal she had with them…

 

Bob Sanders sat at one end of the table and his father at the other; each flanked by their wives and the children. Emma always sat next to her grandfather and if she closed her eyes now she could feel his arm around her as he greeted her. She remembered they had roast beef that night with potatoes and carrots. Her grandmother had made a cobbler for dessert…Emma had helped her mother pick the peaches from the tree in the orchard. Everyone was laughing that night as they were all making plans to go to the lake house for a week.

 

Then, from out of nowhere, while sitting at Cay O’Neill’s parent’s home, she remembered the last conversation before going to bed. Her grandma was speaking. “Bob, we need to get someone out here to look at that cook stove in the kitchen.”

 

“Why, didn’t we just have the oven control fixed?” Her father said as he looked up from his paper.

 

“Well, something is wrong with it again because when I got up this morning it was on and I know I turned it off after dinner last night. I’m afraid we’re going to have a fire if we don’t get it taken care of.”

 

“Okay, Ma, I’ll take care of it first thing in the morning.” He said as he tapped his pipe on the ashtray.

 

Emma sat there as all around her were laughing and talking with one another. She felt a hand touch her, but it didn’t register as she found herself lost in memories.

 

Kissing her father, mother and grandparents goodnight she went to bed and fell into a deep sleep until a nightmare woke her screaming. She felt the loving arms of her mother around her “Shh, my sweet, you just had a nasty dream, I promise you everything will be fine when you wake up.” Esther kissed her cheek and began to leave.

 

“No, Mommy, please don’t leave me.” she cried out afraid to be alone.

 

Her mother turned to her. “What about I get you a nice cold glass of milk, would you like that?

 

“Yes.” She said in her frightened little girl’s voice.

 

The next thing she knew her mother was running up the stairs screaming. “Bob, Bob get up the house is on fire.” Then she ran into Emma’s bedroom, scooped her up, and took her outside.

 

“Emma…Emma, are you okay?” a voice was asking her.

 

“I remember.” She said before getting up and walking quietly out to the front porch.

 

Cay saw her friend get up and leave with a dazed look on her face.

 

“Is she okay?” Her mother asked.

 

“I don’t know, Mama, maybe this was too much for her…too many people all at once. I’ll go check on her.” She said as she followed her friend outside.

 

Emma was standing against the thick white porch railing when Cay found her. “Emma, are you okay?” she asked softly with great concern in her voice.

 

The woman turned her head towards the voice. “I remembered, Cay, I remembered that night.”

 

“The night with Borland?”

 

“No.” she said as tears began to roll down her cheeks. “The fire, I remember the fire.” The words were spoken almost reverently.

 

Cay put her arm around her friend’s shoulders. “Do you want to go back home now?

 

“No, I want to stay. I’m enjoying myself. I’m sorry if I embarrassed you when I left.”

 

“You didn’t. Why don’t you stay out her for a bit longer and I will come and get you when the real party starts.”

 

“The real party? I don’t understand.”

 

“You’ll see.” Cay said as she patted her friend’s shoulder before going back inside.

 

The night proved to be a raucous event with dancing, singing and lots of drinking. Cay’s Uncle Patty came up to Emma and took her hand. “Come on young lady, my name is on your card.”

 

“But, I don’t know how to dance.” She protested.

 

“Ah, but I do, Muirnín.” He said calling her ‘sweetheart’ before laughing as he took her to the middle of the living room and began twirling her around the floor.

Emma was having a fantastic time laughing, singing and just being with other people. Taking a breather she sat down next to Cay and her mother. “Thank you.” She said breathlessly. “I’ve never had such a good time.” Her bright smile confirming her words.

“Mama, can you believe that this woman just six months ago was afraid of people and would only leave her house to go food shopping? Now, look at her, a real party animal.” Cay laughed as a puzzled look came across Emma’s face.

“Party animal?”

“Don’t worry, Emma it means you’re having fun.”

 

* * * * *

22

 

The drive back to lake was warm and pleasant which meant that they drove with the top down. Two hours into the journey, Cay pulled the convertible into the parking lot of a diner. “Let’s stop here and get some coffee, I feel like I need it.” She said with a yawn.

 

Emma smiled at here friend. “You know, I think I will learn how to drive, then when you get tired I can take over. Will you teach me?”

 

“Sure will, let’s go I can hear the coffee calling my name.”

 

Once inside, seated and their order places Emma sighed. “I had the best time last night, thank you for inviting me. I had no idea…” she stopped in mid sentence as sadness crossed her face. “I’ve missed out on so much.”

 

Cay smiled fondly at her friend. “That just means you have so much more to look forward to.”

 

“You’re right! I hadn’t thought of it that way.” She unconsciously dunked her teabag in and out of the steaming water. “I can’t wait for us to get home there is so much I want to do…so much I want to change.”

 

Cay brought the steaming cup of dark brew up to her lips and cautiously took a sip. “I spoke with Uncle Patty and he said that Reigns is in the furthest eastern corner of the state and not to worry he won’t be bothering us again. So, that chapter is over and done with.” Her eyes were on her friend who had begun to bloom just like one of the flowers in her garden. She would never fully realize her life without crossing one more hurdle. “Emma, I lied to you about needing coffee.” She said noting the look of confusion on her companions face. “Ten miles down the road is the convent and school where Claire lives.”

 

Terror gripped at Emma’s heart as she felt acutely ill and in need of fresh air. “No, it’s not time yet! I’m not ready.”

 

A quiet calm voice replied to her. “Emma, it is time. You’ve lost seventeen years of her life, its time to reclaim what is yours.”

 

“But, what if she doesn’t want to see me or she hates me for leaving her there so long? I just couldn’t take the rejection, Cay, it would kill me!”

 

Continuing in her soft soothing voice, Cay spoke again. “I have spoken with the nuns and they tell me she is aware of the situation and holds no animosity towards you.”

 

“How dare you speak to them without my permission! I can’t believe you did that behind my back!” Emma barked out before getting up and walking towards the door.

 

“Shit!” Cay hastily left money on the table as she charged after her friend not really caring that all the eyes in the diner were on the two of them.

 

“Emma, Emma, wait up! What are you going to do walk back home?”

 

“I did it before you came along I can do it again!” she screamed back at Cay.

 

Catching up to her friend, Cay grasped her arm. “Will you please stop?”

 

Emma twirled around and slapped Cay’s face. Her eyes widened once she realized what she had done. “Oh, Cay, I’m so sorry.”

 

Her hand went instantly to her stinging cheek as she stood there in wonder and surprise. “Its time to stop running away, Emma. Your child needs a mother, she needs you!”

 

“I can’t.” Emma said softly.

 

In a no holds barred voice Cay spoke. “You spent all those years in institutions only to come home to a mother who seemingly cared nothing for you. Now, your child, through no fault of her own, sits in an institution waiting for her mother. Its your choice, Emma, does she stay there and think you hate her or do you go and show her all the love you never had? Your choice, Emma, your choice.” Then she turned and walked away.

 

Emma stood there listening, as the words stung her with their truth. Claire, her child, had been abandoned and institutionalized just as she had been. Unlike herself, the child’s exposure to others was in love not needles, beatings and ridicule. Thinking back about how she longed to go home, longed for her mother and the sanity outside the hospital she felt ashamed. I’m no better than my mother was if I let her stay there one day longer. “Cay, wait up.” She called out as she began running towards the car.

 

Opening the car door and sitting down, Emma looked at Cay. “Will you stay with me when I meet her?”

 

“Until you get to feel comfortable, I will.” Cay then started the car and headed towards her friend’s destiny.

 

* * * * *

 

Sister Angelina hugged Emma. “We were hoping you would come. Come with me, she will be so happy to see you. You have a lovely daughter, Emma, which you will be proud of.” The sister said sweetly as she hurriedly walked along the corridor towards the classrooms.

 

Knocking softly on a door she spoke quietly to the teacher that answered. Soon a nervous looking girl came out of the room. “Claire, she came.”

 

The dark haired girl with ivory skin and green eyes looked shyly at the two women. Obviously the shorter of the two with light brown hair wasn’t her mother…no it was the tall one she was sure of that. Awkwardly she held out her hand to Emma.

 

Emma could feel her heart racing as she fought the need to run and hide. Looking at the teenage girl in front of her was like looking in a mirror at herself all those years ago. Her mother’s words screamed in her mind. No one will ever love you because you’re worthless. If you let someone in they will hurt you, you can’t trust anyone but me. Then she remembered the wonderful time she had the night before and what it was like to be around a loving family. That is what Claire deserves and that is what she will get.

 

With tears coursing down her cheeks Emma tentatively reached out for her daughter’s hand. Touching and feeling the warm flesh against hers she was overwhelmed with feelings of love and tenderness. She then engulfed her child in a hug that told each of them they would never be alone again.

 

Standing and observing the heart-warming scene Sister Angelina and Cay also had tears in their eyes, but the smiles on their faces told a story of happiness.

 

“Come with me.” Sister Angelina said as she led them to a small room used for contemplation and prayer. “You won’t be bothered here.” She said in her quiet voice.

 

As the sister turned to leave, Cay went with her as she patted Emma’s shoulder and whispered. “I’ll be close by.”

 

Emma was amazed at the girl next to her. My daughter, she thought as she gently held Claire’s hand.

 

For Claire there was a world of questions that needed to be answered by the woman before she could ever call her mother. The question is where to start. The only thing she could thing of to say came rolling off her tongue, “Why?” before tears began to fall once again.

 

That one word stabbed Emma in the heart for it was the one word she would say in the hospitals every time her mother had her committed. This girl, her baby, deserved an answer and wouldn’t have to wait a lifetime for an answer that would never come. Taking a deep breath she began, “When I was five years old my life changed forever…

 

Two hours later the mother and daughter emerged from the room clinging to one another. For now it was a start on the road to learning, healing and hopefully to being a family. Once they were all settled back at the lake and Claire was settled in, they would get to know one another better.

 

Cay followed along behind the mother and daughter as they went to Claire’s room to collect her possessions. Once in the room she approached her friend. “Looks like everything is working out just fine,” she said with a smile and a hug.

 

“Oh, Cay, it is so much better than my wildest dreams ever could be. I can remember pretending that I somehow found my long lost child and how wonderful it would be, but this, the reality of it all; I never imagined such happiness could exist.” She said with a voice that was filled with awe and wonder.

 

While packing her meager belongings, Claire kept an eye on Emma making sure she didn’t disappear. Reaching under her pillow she pulled out what looked like a photo. “I have kept this under my pillow so you would always be close.” She said handing the worn picture to Emma.

 

Emma looked at the photo and frowned as she handed it to Cay. “Where did you get this, Claire?”

 

“Once along time ago, my grandmother visited me and she gave it to me. She told me that you loved me very much and someday would come and get me. When I asked why I couldn’t go now, she told me that it wasn’t the right time, it wasn’t safe.” She flopped down on her bed. “I never understood what she meant until now. She seemed like a very nice lady and spoke about you with love in her voice so I really don’t understand what you told me about her.”

 

Emma began to shake. She was here; she saw Claire and gave her a picture of me. I don’t understand why or what wasn’t safe? Was I not safe or…was it Borland she was protecting us both from? She felt the warm comforting arm of Cay around her shoulders

 

“Let the past go, Emma, rejoice in having your daughter in your life. Let it go.” She whispered in Emma’s ear.

 

Turning towards her friend, Emma smiled and shook her head. “You’re right. Claire, if you’re all packed, lets go home.”

 

The warmth of that moment filled the room as Emma put her arms around her daughter and kissed her gently on the cheek.

 

Claire beamed as she spoke. “Yes, lets go home. Home, what a wonderful word, one which I have dreamt of all my life.”

 

* * * * * *

 

As the days and months passed Cay grew restless to find her own way in the world. She watched Emma and Claire formed a strong bond of love and mutual respect for what both had endured so far in their lives. Her friend’s life was now joyous as she doted on her daughter.

 

Emma was true to her word as things around the Sanders’ home and lives began to change drastically. Together mother and daughter came up with ideas and redid the interior of the house with new furniture and brighter walls. For Emma, it was a struggle to let go of the old furniture and the memories they held.

 

Cay stood next to her friend as tears rolled down the older woman’s face. “How can I part with all of this,” she said motioning to the furniture in her front room, “It is all I have left of my family.”

 

“Emma, your family, all of them, are in your heart, these are just things from the past.”

 

“I know, but this chair, my favorite one, was where my dad would always sit…I just can’t give that away…I just can’t.” she said sobbing.

 

“Why don’t you pick out the ones that mean the most to you and we can find a way to keep them with the new.” Cay offered.

 

“That would work,” Emma said with a small smile. “What will we do with the rest of it?” she asked.

 

“How about we store it in the barn for the time being then you can make a decision later?”

 

“Good idea, you always have a solution, what would I ever do without you.” She said smiling. “Guess what? Now that Claire and I have both have our driving licenses I think it is time for me to buy a car. Will you take us to the dealership, we know just what we want.”

 

Cay feared for her life the first time Emma got behind the wheel of her new Navigator. “Emma,” she asked, “isn’t this vehicle overkill?”

 

Emma only laughed and said, “Nope, this way I can see whose doing what in their cars.”

 

From her observations, Cay found Claire to be a delightful person who seemed to flawlessly blend in to life on the lake. As much as Emma was a neat freak, Claire turned out to be a constant source of irritation for her mother. Clothes, towels, books, and dishes would be found all over the house much to Emma’s chagrin. What fascinated Cay the most, was that although Emma protested, she would go around and pick everything up with a sense of joy.

 

Each night Emma would sit with her friend as they talked about the day and what was to come. “Everything has come together for you, Emma. I’m so happy for you and Claire.”

 

“Hmm, it would never have happened without you my friend.” She turned and looked at Cay and saw the sadness there. “You have given me so much; and for the last few months I have been ignoring you, I’m sorry.”

 

“You haven’t been ignoring me, Emma, you have been getting to know Claire. It is as it should be.” Her gaze turned out towards the water. “I need to be moving on.”

 

Emma felt the arrow pierce her heart as she grabbed her chest. “No, please, no.”

 

“I need to find my own direction, Emma.”

 

“Can’t you do it here?” her heart was breaking.

 

Cay turned to her friend and took her hand. “Emma, I must go, but we will always be friends and I will always be here for you; just press the five.”

 

“But, I need you here.” She said tearfully.

 

“Not anymore, Emma, you have found your way. Everything in life happens for a reason; sometimes we don’t know the whys, but if we wait long enough we will understand. My world crashed around me and I went to work for Borland so I could come into your life, Emma. So together we could form a friendship and out of that you could get your life back. Claire is in your life because Jack Salmon was greedy…don’t you see it is all connected…we are all connected. We each have a journey in life and as our paths cross we change the course but not the journey. This has been my change in the path, but I still must follow where I am to go.”

 

Emma listened and although she didn’t like it, she did understand what Cay was saying. “I understand. Of course who’s to say that your path won’t bring you right back here where you belong.” She said with and infectious smile. “Our paths will cross again and again there is no doubt in my mind. You’ll be back one day, Cay O’Neill, I’m counting on it.”

 

The End

 

 

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