The night too long to arrive and Sun seemed very opposed to set. But at the designated hour Haldora stood in her room, dressed and ready to go. Anna gave her one last look. Haldora wore a long wool black turtle neck dress and a full length leather jacket. She shook in her clothes, with her hears pealed to every small sound that might announce the arrival of her date. Anna seemed as nervous as her friend, as she almost franticly arranged her hair. Al last Haldora had to stop her and both women took a deep and long breath. They stared into each other’s eyes as to calm one another down, both knowing it wasn’t working completely.
The sound of tapping on window came up through the stairs and the breathing exercises were left without result. Anna composed herself and went down the steps to open the door. Haldora stayed behind to fetch her purse. Before she could head towards the stairs, Anna had brought Michael up. She was even more nervous to have him inside her private room. Her view point to him. He was, as always, smartly dressed and wore a smile on his face. Haldora smiled back and indicated she was ready to go, by pointing to her purse.
- You look lovely. - , he complemented.
- Thank you. So do you. -, Haldora complemented back.
For a minute the three figures remained standing and silent, Michael looked around the room, in amazement, Haldora looked to the floor in embarrassment and Anna looked at the couple waiting for either of them to make a sound.
- You’re going to be late. -, Anna finally said.
Michael nodded is head and offered Haldora his hand. She slyly took it and they were off. Anna remained up in the room, where she could see them through the window. She accompanied Michael as he opened the car door for Haldora and then drove off.
The car drive was quiet, almost too quiet. Haldora could not think of anything to say and Michael seemed too concentrated on his driving. At some time he turned the car radio on, breaking the uncomfortable silence. The radio was playing the newest pop song, which made Haldora relax for a few seconds.
- I really hate these songs! -, Michael announced as he turned the station to something more rock, which made Haldora tense up again to the undesirable music.
- So what are we going to see? -, She finally had the courage to ask.
- That is a surprise.
- Won’t you give me a hint? Maybe the genre?
- No! That would ruin the surprise.
She was destined to wait to find out, so she silenced again, looking outside the window.
- Alright. I’ll tell you this. It has something in it that you can identify with.
Haldora was curious, she turned her head to him, to catch a glimpse of his face as he said it, to see if any more could be drawn from his expression, but he seemed decided not to reveal and she would respect it.
The car was parked and the theater was in sight. Haldora was even more nervous at the sight of an hour of more of close quarters sitting within a dark room. Michael rushed to open her door. She stepped out of the car and again Michael took her hand and led her to the theater. Inside he helped her with her coat, catching off guard because she had forgotten how etiquette ran. She finally sat down and steadied herself. Michael sat beside her with an excited look upon his face, she tried to copy it but the situation was nothing but exciting and everything nerve wracking. The lights went down and Haldora focused on the screen. Suddenly Japanese character’s appeared on the picture. Haldora was confused at the kind of film. She finally understood it was a Japanese animated movie. Her eyes turned to Michael and he was very serious attentive to the screen. She took a breath wondering how much more would they not have in common. She made her best effort to enjoy.
Half way through the story a strange character appeared. Michael leant towards her and whispered in her hear.
- Surprise!
At first she did not listen what was said, she was only engulfed in the moment. She had felt his breath on her skin and it was as she had imagined it to be. Sweet and fresh and warm. She was paralyzed for a second. Though her eyes still looked at the screen, her attention span was little. She soon woke up from her trance when she realized that the strange figure Michael was referring to was entitled as a witch. Her eyes were widened and her expression was changed as she found the comparison a tad ridiculous. Without her knowing Michael was also attentive to her reactions and become concerned to see her reaction to his surprise.
The film ran long and when it was finally over Haldora was relieved, smiling at her date trying to conceal it. They let the theater as it began to rain. Haldora took her coat and placed over their heads and they ran to get in the car. Once inside and excited by the run, they both had to catch their breaths through giggles. Michael took a look at his watch.
- It’s early. Would you like to go and have a drink? -, he invited.
- All right! -, she hesitated.
The car was put into motion and the silence was back.
- So, did you like the film? -, he asked.
- It was… definitely surprising.
- Come on, that is a safe answer. Did you like it?
- I thought it was… different. I had never seen that kind of movie before. -, she elaborated.
- That’s it? -, he asked taking his eyes off the road for a while. Haldora was at a loss for words. – I mean… I ask you what did you think about a shortstory and you sent me your message in six parts, because it was too long and that’s all you can say after two hours in a theater room? -, he joked.
- I’m still processing it. -, she finally announced.
- I’m starting to think you didn’t like it.
- No. I enjoyed it. I just haven’t formulated an intelligent opinion yet. -, she quickly explained.
- Then give the unintelligent one. -, he requested grinning.
Haldora searched for the words in her head and as she was certain she had a coherent speech formulated the car stopped in from of an apartment building.
- This is not a pub. -, she instead uttered.
- No, it isn’t. It’s where I live. I wanted some place quiet. -, he explained.
- You lied. -, she realized.
- No. I’ve got drinks. Let’s go up. -, he left the car and came to open hers.
They made their way up the steps to his door. As the door opened Haldora was bathed by a sent she had sent before. She could smell his presence on every corner of this apartment which made her dizzy. She as invaded by the many memories of the many ages she had met him. They entered; he took her coat and offered her a seat. She walked over to the sofa as he walked towards the kitchen, she touched the brown leather as she sat and felt a rush of feelings running from head down to her toes. It took every inch of strength to control these feelings and appear to act normal.
- What would you like to drink? -, he asked from the kitchen.
- Whatever you’re having. -, she answered as she looked around and studied the room.
Michael came in with two glasses of white wine and a bottle. He set the bottle down and handed Haldora her glass. They raised their glasses and took a sip.
- Not as fancy as what I had at your place, but a good wine, none the less.
- A very good wine. -, she attested.
- I forgot to give you the big tour. -, he announced. – This is the TV room, living room and library. -, he said as he pointed to the various objects that identified the room, the television, the sofa and the grand book case. – Over there is the bedroom, and bathroom and through there the kitchen.
- It’s cozy.
- Yes. It is small.
Haldora laughed. She took another sip of her wine.
- So… what didn’t you like about the film? -, he sharply asked, making Haldora realize she had forgotten her carefully plan speech from before.
- It’s not so much that I didn’t like it. There were things I …
- Didn’t like? -, he interrupted.
- Why did you take me to see this film? What made you think I would like it? -, she asked.
- You were reading Japanese comic books, so it’s something we share and … There was a witch in this one. -, he confidently answered.
- I’ve been reading Japanese comics to understand what people see in it. So far all I’ve got was an enormous inferiority complex. I’m not particularly fond of them. -, she answered, leaving Michael extremely embarrassed.
- I’m so sorry. You hated it. You spent two hours in a theater looking at a film you hate.
- No. It’s not as dramatic as that. The story was cute. The braveness of children and the helping of unlikely friends. It was well constructed. -, she explained.
- Don’t try to cheer me up, you really didn’t like it. -, he said as he held her hand, yet again. – Tell you, at least, found the witch amusing.
- Which witch? -, she asked.
- The witch. -, she confirmed.
- We’re playing the Wizard of Oz! -, she realized. Michael laughed. – The good one or the bad one.
- Well, what did you of them both?
- I’m confused as to what you meant when you said I could identify with her. Did you mean I look physically ridiculous or old?
Michael choked on his wine upon hearing the question. He shook his head as he coughed.
- I just meant there were witches. You don’t look a think like them. -, he clarified.
- Oh, so I’m not as good as the good witch? I would not help that child? -, Haldora insisted, leaving Michael uncomfortable.
- No… You’d… You’d do more! -, he finally answered.
- Good save. -, she stated.
- I’m really sorry. I really did think you would like it.
- It’s a different experience. Just for that I like it. -, she took a long sip from her drink. – So, you don’t have any other friends who like witches and animated films?
Michael hesitated. His expressing changed and Haldora was sorry she had asked.
- Yes, I do, but I’m… taking a break from some people.
Haldora wanted to ask further questions, but she saw show his eyes had turned sad, so she abstained, instead she got up and looked at his book collection. Michael understood her tactic. He got up behind her and stood very close. She kept her composure since he could see her reflection on the glass.
- Not as great as your library. -, he stated.
- Same theme though. They’re mostly about the Middle Ages.
- After a year and a half of online conversation you haven’t realized that is my favorite topic?
- A year and a half? Seems longer.
- It’s seems forever. Especially now that I’ve met you.
Haldora turned around to find herself pinned between Michael and the bookcase. She looked up to him, with and inquisitive expression.
- I wondered a lot how you’d look like and how you’d be for real and now that we’ve met… you’re just like I imagined. -, he explained in a half whisper.
- I find that hard to believe. -, she joked.
- You are. You’re committed to what you do. It showed in the way you explained things, never allowing yourself to be wrong. You’re kind. I saw the atmosphere at the bookshop, your employees love you. You’re a good boss. You’re uncomfortable with people but you like to talk and maybe you’re a bit eccentric. –, he explained looking straight into her eyes.
- Eccentric?
- You live above your work place. You have no furniture and you can read ancient languages. What you call that? -, he asked grinning.
- A nut? -, she joked.
Michael touched her face with his finger and came very close. Haldora knew what was to follow. His lips were very close to hers. He closed his eyes and time seemed to stretch. The few millimeters between them seemed yards. Finally she closed her eyes and their lips touched lightly. Michael redrew and came back again for a second approach. This time their lips glued to each other accompanied by a rush of blood. Haldora felt her control slip away. Suddenly a gush of strong wind opened the window and like a hurricane blew everything that was not too heavy out of its place. Michael ran to close the window, confused as too what had happened, since it was not appropriate weather. Haldora realized she had spilled her wine over her dress and so had Michael. She was soaking.
- Come into the bedroom and change. Just look in the closet for something. -, Michael suggested.
Haldora rushed into the room and took her dress immediately off, not that she was bothered by the wetness, but because her scar was throbbing like never before. She was having trouble breathing. She gasping was so laud that Michael, who kept himself busy, tidying the living room, could hear her. He was frightened at the sound and opened the door. Haldora stood next to his bed, breathing heavily, wearing nothing but her underwear. As soon as he saw he, turned his head, but right then he looked again, noticing her scar. He walked up to her, staring at it. Haldora looked away.
- What happened? -, he asked.
She shook her head so he’d understand she didn’t want to speak about it. He felt compelled to touch it. As she did Haldora’s pain subsided. She took a long heavy breath and then began to breathe normally once more.
- An operation gone bad? -, he asked still with his fingers on it.
- Something like that. -, she explained. She looked at him as he seemed hypnotized by this scar. – I need to go. -, she said as she took her dress and pushed it down her body. She walked passed Michael towards the door and her coat. She turned around for a moment. – Thank you. It was a lovely evening.
Closed door… Parallelizes…
Thursday, April 19, 2007
CHAPTER XXII
The day came with a lovely surprise. Before the shop was even open there was a light tap on the window. Haldora rushed down to find Anna peeking in. Haldora opened the door and Anna came in with a sorry look on her face. There was no need for words between them, their eyes did most of the talking, though it was obvious to Anna Haldora’s eyes had much more to say. Anna looked outside for a second and saw Michael’s car pull up to the parking lot. She looked at Haldora expecting to find her hypnotized as before, instead she found her smiling shyly as if hiding something. Anna took another look at Michael and as soon as she got close enough to see them, Haldora pulled them away from his view. Anna was amazed at her friend’s action.
- Severing the ties, are we?
- Anna. Yesterday he came into the shop all by himself and we spoke and… he then came back to help me set up the exhibit. -, Haldora explain, as she sat on the sofas at the back on the shop.
- He came here and engaged in conversation with you and you…?
- I was stunned. Since you broke the spell I haven’t even seen him get his bus. I haven’t spoken to him on line. I even stopped smoking for fear the smoke would take my wishes to where they shouldn’t, you like the Native Americans. -, Haldora related.
- And after all that he came in and spoke to you and offered to help set this thing up? -, Anna sat next to her.
- Yes.
- Could this still be the spell working?
- Once a spell is broken, it’s broken. And I made no attempts to bring its energy back. I haven’t even been thinking of him.
- How do you accomplish that?
- I work like crazy. I read. I make myself busy.
- You haven’t even been looking out the window? -, Anna was amazed at Haldora’s resolution.
- No. I lock myself in the bathroom until it’s time for his bus to go.
- Do you think that… maybe… it is fate? -, Anna asked, doubting her own question. – Like you manipulated his way but now he has to take the path for himself.
- I don’t know. Before we always seemed to run in to each other without any aid. There was a time when I sought him out in other realms, but when I came back and started my mission I forgot him for the longest of times and then I did the spell and… And he did show up. And now I’ve got what I wanted and I’m scared. -, Haldora confessed.
- He came here and spoke to you. What did you guys talk about?
- Well. He brought dinner and we spoke about me being a witch and…
- Wait a second. You spoke about you being a what? -, Anna interrupted.
- Witch. I’d told me before when we had coffee, because I thought it would freak him out and he would leave, but this time he brought it up. He seemed very interested. Then we just spoke about the books. I read parts and told him what they were. Things like that.
- Then what? -, Anna turned her head to her friend as her friend walked towards the wall.
- He was sleepy and I did that meditation trick where it seems you have been sleeping for a while and sent him on his way. -, Haldora explained.
- Wow! I don’t even know what to say anymore.
The two friends sat there for a while thinking of what was happening. There were no thoughts of forgiveness or anger has had been the last time they had been together.
The day evolved into the daily routine of work for both Anna and Haldora, no works were exchanged about what had been spoken in the morning. Instead both women kept themselves busy with shop affairs until it was time to close. From time to time Anna would find Haldora reading her Japonese comic books, and by the look on her face she was not doing it for the entertainment it provided, it was clear that it was merely a strategy to abstract herself from the world around her.
The last costumer of the day came just as soon as Anna was closing the doors. She did not notice him, but he ran from a cross the street and got in forcing the door a bit. Anna was about ready to give this person a piece of her mind, when she saw who it was. Michael was in front of her flushed from the race.
- Hi, I’m sorry to invade like this, but I was wondering if I could speak to Hal. -, he politely asked.
- Sure. I’ll go get her.
Anna walked towards the office as soon as she closed the front door and turned the closed sign. Inside the office Haldora insisted on reading her Japonese comics.
- Hal, there’s someone here to see you. -, Anna said when she got close to the door.
Haldora rouse taking the comic with her. She kept on reading as she came out of the office.
- Who is it? -, she asked from behind the comic.
- Hi, Hal. -, Michael greeted.
Haldora lowered the comic and her first glance was to Anna. She then looked at Michael and smiled.
- Hey. I hope you got home ok. -, she said.
- I did. -, he replied coming close to the two women. -, Thanks for whatever it was that you did.
- Like I told you yesterday, there was no need for you to come back. We got it from here. You did a lot, thank you. -, Haldora explained.
- That’s not why I came. -, he explained.
Haldora looked very embarrassed.
- I wanted to ask you something. It’s short notice, I know, but… I was wondering if you’d like to come with me to this movie festival. I have an extra ticket and no one to go with.
- Why don’t you take your girlfriend? -, Anna blurted.
Both Michael and Haldora looked at her in surprise.
- Michael, this is Anna, she’s… a friend. -, Haldora introduced them - And fellow on-line chatter.
- Well, Anna… my girlfriend isn’t into these kinds of movies. -, he patiently explained, while lowering his eyes. – If you don’t want to go it’s ok, it’s just I think you’d enjoy it and… I would really like to have the pleasure of your company.
- When is this going to happen? -, Haldora asked.
- Tomorrow! It’s a late show.
- Oh! I don’t know, I have to awake pretty early to open then shop… - Haldora explained.
- I’ll do it! -, Anna interrupted.
- What?
- I’ll do it! You go have fun. I’ll open the shop.
- I guess that’s official. Will you come pick me up?
- Yeah. I’ll be here at eight. I’ll see you tomorrow.
Haldora could do nothing else but smile at his offer as Anna walked him out of the shop and closed the door behind him. As soon as he was out of sight, Haldora ran up the stairs to her home, with Anna on her heels. Haldora was panting and pressing her scar. It looked like she was out of breath. All Anna could do was sit with her friend and wait till she was calmer.
- What the hell were you thinking? Why did you not stop me? You are angry at me for wanting him and when I’m trying to drive him away from my life you help him back in. -, Haldora suddenly exploded, making the fire explode with her.
- Calm down. -, Anna cried, -And turn down the flames. Let me explain. -, the flames dimmed. - Suddenly with him standing right there and being nice and all… I thought he hasn’t run away in fear or felt threatened and you told him some pretty heavy things, and hasn’t even tried to burn you at the stake for it. You shouldn’t have done the spell, but maybe this time it’s the one.
Haldora looked around the room still trying to control her feelings.
- I did that spell… because since I came back from the Goddess, I … couldn’t connect with him. I used to be able to touch his dreams and then I couldn’t, not anymore. The war passed and I felt the pressure on him scar. He was close, but I couldn’t… -, Haldora turned to Anna, - I was afraid chance wasn’t working anymore. -, Anna understood her friend’s reasons; she nodded as she heard the explanation.
- Maybe this is a gift, from the Goddess, for a good job. It’s been a thousand years you should get some bottie out of it, or if nothing else a friend.
The two grinned.
- I’m going out with him.
- Yeah!
- What am I going to say?
- You have bigger things to worry about?
- I do? -, Haldora asked frightened.
- Of course. What are you going to wear?
Both women laughed. Haldora laid on the floor as Anna ran to raid her friend’s closet for the right outfit.
Clothes flying… Emotions rising…
- Severing the ties, are we?
- Anna. Yesterday he came into the shop all by himself and we spoke and… he then came back to help me set up the exhibit. -, Haldora explain, as she sat on the sofas at the back on the shop.
- He came here and engaged in conversation with you and you…?
- I was stunned. Since you broke the spell I haven’t even seen him get his bus. I haven’t spoken to him on line. I even stopped smoking for fear the smoke would take my wishes to where they shouldn’t, you like the Native Americans. -, Haldora related.
- And after all that he came in and spoke to you and offered to help set this thing up? -, Anna sat next to her.
- Yes.
- Could this still be the spell working?
- Once a spell is broken, it’s broken. And I made no attempts to bring its energy back. I haven’t even been thinking of him.
- How do you accomplish that?
- I work like crazy. I read. I make myself busy.
- You haven’t even been looking out the window? -, Anna was amazed at Haldora’s resolution.
- No. I lock myself in the bathroom until it’s time for his bus to go.
- Do you think that… maybe… it is fate? -, Anna asked, doubting her own question. – Like you manipulated his way but now he has to take the path for himself.
- I don’t know. Before we always seemed to run in to each other without any aid. There was a time when I sought him out in other realms, but when I came back and started my mission I forgot him for the longest of times and then I did the spell and… And he did show up. And now I’ve got what I wanted and I’m scared. -, Haldora confessed.
- He came here and spoke to you. What did you guys talk about?
- Well. He brought dinner and we spoke about me being a witch and…
- Wait a second. You spoke about you being a what? -, Anna interrupted.
- Witch. I’d told me before when we had coffee, because I thought it would freak him out and he would leave, but this time he brought it up. He seemed very interested. Then we just spoke about the books. I read parts and told him what they were. Things like that.
- Then what? -, Anna turned her head to her friend as her friend walked towards the wall.
- He was sleepy and I did that meditation trick where it seems you have been sleeping for a while and sent him on his way. -, Haldora explained.
- Wow! I don’t even know what to say anymore.
The two friends sat there for a while thinking of what was happening. There were no thoughts of forgiveness or anger has had been the last time they had been together.
The day evolved into the daily routine of work for both Anna and Haldora, no works were exchanged about what had been spoken in the morning. Instead both women kept themselves busy with shop affairs until it was time to close. From time to time Anna would find Haldora reading her Japonese comic books, and by the look on her face she was not doing it for the entertainment it provided, it was clear that it was merely a strategy to abstract herself from the world around her.
The last costumer of the day came just as soon as Anna was closing the doors. She did not notice him, but he ran from a cross the street and got in forcing the door a bit. Anna was about ready to give this person a piece of her mind, when she saw who it was. Michael was in front of her flushed from the race.
- Hi, I’m sorry to invade like this, but I was wondering if I could speak to Hal. -, he politely asked.
- Sure. I’ll go get her.
Anna walked towards the office as soon as she closed the front door and turned the closed sign. Inside the office Haldora insisted on reading her Japonese comics.
- Hal, there’s someone here to see you. -, Anna said when she got close to the door.
Haldora rouse taking the comic with her. She kept on reading as she came out of the office.
- Who is it? -, she asked from behind the comic.
- Hi, Hal. -, Michael greeted.
Haldora lowered the comic and her first glance was to Anna. She then looked at Michael and smiled.
- Hey. I hope you got home ok. -, she said.
- I did. -, he replied coming close to the two women. -, Thanks for whatever it was that you did.
- Like I told you yesterday, there was no need for you to come back. We got it from here. You did a lot, thank you. -, Haldora explained.
- That’s not why I came. -, he explained.
Haldora looked very embarrassed.
- I wanted to ask you something. It’s short notice, I know, but… I was wondering if you’d like to come with me to this movie festival. I have an extra ticket and no one to go with.
- Why don’t you take your girlfriend? -, Anna blurted.
Both Michael and Haldora looked at her in surprise.
- Michael, this is Anna, she’s… a friend. -, Haldora introduced them - And fellow on-line chatter.
- Well, Anna… my girlfriend isn’t into these kinds of movies. -, he patiently explained, while lowering his eyes. – If you don’t want to go it’s ok, it’s just I think you’d enjoy it and… I would really like to have the pleasure of your company.
- When is this going to happen? -, Haldora asked.
- Tomorrow! It’s a late show.
- Oh! I don’t know, I have to awake pretty early to open then shop… - Haldora explained.
- I’ll do it! -, Anna interrupted.
- What?
- I’ll do it! You go have fun. I’ll open the shop.
- I guess that’s official. Will you come pick me up?
- Yeah. I’ll be here at eight. I’ll see you tomorrow.
Haldora could do nothing else but smile at his offer as Anna walked him out of the shop and closed the door behind him. As soon as he was out of sight, Haldora ran up the stairs to her home, with Anna on her heels. Haldora was panting and pressing her scar. It looked like she was out of breath. All Anna could do was sit with her friend and wait till she was calmer.
- What the hell were you thinking? Why did you not stop me? You are angry at me for wanting him and when I’m trying to drive him away from my life you help him back in. -, Haldora suddenly exploded, making the fire explode with her.
- Calm down. -, Anna cried, -And turn down the flames. Let me explain. -, the flames dimmed. - Suddenly with him standing right there and being nice and all… I thought he hasn’t run away in fear or felt threatened and you told him some pretty heavy things, and hasn’t even tried to burn you at the stake for it. You shouldn’t have done the spell, but maybe this time it’s the one.
Haldora looked around the room still trying to control her feelings.
- I did that spell… because since I came back from the Goddess, I … couldn’t connect with him. I used to be able to touch his dreams and then I couldn’t, not anymore. The war passed and I felt the pressure on him scar. He was close, but I couldn’t… -, Haldora turned to Anna, - I was afraid chance wasn’t working anymore. -, Anna understood her friend’s reasons; she nodded as she heard the explanation.
- Maybe this is a gift, from the Goddess, for a good job. It’s been a thousand years you should get some bottie out of it, or if nothing else a friend.
The two grinned.
- I’m going out with him.
- Yeah!
- What am I going to say?
- You have bigger things to worry about?
- I do? -, Haldora asked frightened.
- Of course. What are you going to wear?
Both women laughed. Haldora laid on the floor as Anna ran to raid her friend’s closet for the right outfit.
Clothes flying… Emotions rising…
CHAPTER XXI
Anna found Haldora, upstairs, tending to her garden in the dark. Anna searched the wall for a light switch, but before she found one a small flame appeared on an old gas lamp, revealing the garden with, perhaps hundreds of pots with all kinds of plants. Anna walked towards Haldora who picked leaves of specific plants.
- It’s a wonder you can control fire like that? -, Anna spoke awaiting a response for a long conversation. Haldora simply smiled from the side of her mouth and continued her work. Anna understood she needed to introduce the subject herself. – Are you still mad at me for telling Michael to come over? -, Haldora once more did not answer. Anna walked around the garden looking at the plants and recognizing a few. At the far end of the garden stood a table that resembled the table she herself had in her hut. Anna came near it and looked at the potions on display and the supplies neatly placed. It came to her attention a smaller table on the side of the grander table. This smaller one had the light of the moon shone on it; the light came down from the large skylight. The waning Moon. Anna recognized immediately what lay on this table. She took a long breath. – You did a ‘near me’ spell.
Haldora stopped what she was doing and turned to her friend, who now stood backwards to her. Her head hanging down. Her countenance was heavy.
- I did that spell a long time ago. Before he got his internship. That’s where he goes, every morning. He didn’t take the bus and I hadn’t met me on the net. Weeks later I saw him waiting for that bus and coming here. I never touched it again. I didn’t want to contaminate it with any more energy. -, Haldora explained.
- You weren’t angry at me. – Anna realized as she turned around.
- I should have destroyed that spell, but I didn’t and it picked up on your energy as I knew it would. But what is the truth, and that is the worst, I didn’t want to destroy it.
- You took people’s free will. That was our first rule. You don’t manipulate. -, Anna reminded.
- I know. -, Haldora took her carton and lit a cigarette on the gas lamp.
- When did you become a smoker?
- I picked it up when I was hiding in Morocco. Relaxation. And it’s addictive even for the dead. -, Haldora explained.
Anna came close to her and removed the cigarette from her lips.
- It’s a nasty habit. -, she stated as she used it to set the dried leaves of the spell on fire. Soon a small blaze consumed the table. Anna grabbed the water can and put out the fire. – It’s broken.
Haldora was motionless with her eyes stuck to the ground. Anna passed her by on her way out. As Anna closed the street door she the fire lights in the house extinguish and the place was grim and sad. Anna walked down the street towards her own apartment feeling disappointed. She carried with herself Haldora’s guilty and her tears, which began to pour a few yards away from the shop. Inside Haldora, apathetic, lay thrown on the rug in front of the cold fire place.
Days passed and Anna’s presence was not felt anywhere around the shop. Haldora continued her daily routine, but now more quiet then ever. She continued to prepare the shop for the exhibition, carrying books from a place to another to open up space. She was tireless, but only because she wanted to keep busy and not sit by her computer, nor by her window, though her mind would toy with these rituals for her. All faces were of him and her. All voices sounded like them. Haldora was sure she was again alone and by her own fault.
Slow day afternoon and Haldora sat awaiting costumers alone in the empty shop. She continued to attempt to understand the Japonese Comic arts. The door made a sound and Haldora lifted her head as her chest pressed on her. Michael was heading towards her stand with a sad smile upon his face. She was thrown by his presence.
- Hey! -, he greeted, - You’ve been missing in action. I thought it might be good to check up on you.
- I’ve been busy. I had to set up the space. -, she explained pointing to the empty space for the exhibition.
- Oh! So what’s going to be there again?
- A collection of rare editions of the Middle ages, along with … artifacts. – She summarized.
- That’s right you had told me. – There was an uncomfortable pause. – You look really tired.
- I am a bit. You look sad.
- I was worried. I’m still worried. We stopped talking on the net when I met you on the bus and for some reason I can’t shake the feeling that the two events are related. I mean we were anonymous to each other and then we weren’t and I thought that might have messed with your head.
- No. I was just busy. I’ve been busy.
- It has messed with my head, because now you’re real. You’re not just letters. And… the chit-chat we had the other day was great. It was better then reading. -, He explained.
Haldora smilled shyly.
- I’ve miss talking to you. -, she said in a half whisper.
A costumer entered the shop which diverted Haldora’s attention. She moved towards the person to help. Michael stood close to the stand. She took Haldora’s comic from the table and took a look. Haldora settled the costumer’s bill and walked her to the door with all courtesy. She came back to her stand. Michael still looked at her book. He gave her the book back with noticeable embarrassment.
- So… how do we do this? You’re busy working and I don’t want to keep you.
- The time I used to sit by the computer is now the time I spend down in the basement with the artifacts. I have to start bringing them up today.
- Can I help? -, This question pierced Haldora like an arrow. – If it’s boxes I can carry boxes. What am I saying? They need special treatment.
- No. -, Haldora erupted, - I mean, handle with care, but no special treatment. If you’d like to help that would be… nice.
- What time do you want me here?
- Closing time?
- I’ll bring dinner. -, Haldora nodded her head in a dream like stasis while Michael left the shop with a bright smile upon his lips.
Until closing time Haldora was still not sure she had had an actual conversation with her long lost warrior or had just dreamt it. But then she saw him carrying paper bags. If she had been dreaming she had not yet waken up. Haldora opened the door and let him in. He set the bags on the first available table and began taking food from it.
- I realized I didn’t ask you what you liked you to eat, but since you are a true English girl, you like chips and anything fired. -, He explained.
- I like chips.
They both sat down and began to eat. At first the moment was awkward, silence surrounded them.
- This was easier when we were just typing. I don’t think we can be more uncomfortable -, Haldora stated and she filled her mouth with chips.
- So you’re a witch? -, he asked.
Haldora chocked. She coughed as she laughed.
- Scratch that. It can. -, she stated still clearing her throat.
Michael contained his laughter. Haldora got up and went behind the bar, fetching a rather dusty bottle of wine.
- If we’re going to talk about that we might as well make it less uncomfortable. -, she explained as she uncorked it. She brought two beautiful red glasses and poured wine for both of them.
- You do realize you are ruining a XIX century wine on chips? -, Michael asked as he looked at the bottle in complete shock.
- I’m drinking to the company. -, she explained before she took a long sip. – So, witch. Yes I am.
- What does that entail?
- Well. You try to communicate with every living being and try to be patient and not proud and you commune with all of Nature and all things really. -, Michael did not seem very convinced, - Yes, witches can sometimes connect with the spirits of dead people, but it’s not a pre-requisite, and we do spells. Spells are like prayers, but instead of just saying repetitive words that some one else wrote, we make our request our own. We know the power of herbs and animals and geometric forms and star alignments and we know when to ask something. I’m not making any sense.
- Partially.
- It’s hard to explain. It’s like asking some one if they believe in God.
- Do you believe in God? -, He inquired.
- I’ve not met any entity with that name. Though the sky is vast and I’m sure it has room enough for all gods. If people believe in some entity they will be and flourish. Gods die when you forget them. -, she explained showing her experience on the subject.
- So you don’t believe you’re going to Heaven when you die?
Haldora grinned. She took a sip from her wine and ate a chip before she answered.
- Witches believe in reincarnation. I will come again and I will fix the mistakes I did in this life and if I don’t I’ll come back and live them again until there is a balance. Until I’ve learned from them.
Michael was stunned with her honesty about the subject. He could not stop listening to her explain how she felt inside when she took her prayers to he Moon, when she celebrated her festivals. He could almost sense her feelings of fullness and happiness. Though He had though she had been joking, with every single explanation he was convinced of the woman’s devotion. He sat hypnotized by her words.
The chips were over and so was the wine, Michael was feeling tired but has he had promised he helped Haldora carry the many old dusty books from the vault to the exhibition space. He was astonished at the collection Haldora kept. He spent most of the time going through the books instead of carrying them. He couldn’t read any of them, but Haldora knew every single one and even called them by their title, which confused him. She explained what kind of book it was and sometimes read passages from them, her favorite parts. They engaged on conversations over many topics depending on what book they picked up. They discussed the dogmas of the Inquisition and the be
The night was not young anymore and Michael was getting very sleepy from the wine and the tiredness. He struggled to keep awake. Haldora made him sit on the steps.
- You’re tired. I better call you a cab to take you home.
- No, I’m OK. I said I’d help you and we’re almost finished, right?
Haldora looked at the amount of work still to be done and sighed.
- You’re not almost finished. It’s late you should go home. -, she explained. Michael struggled to stay awake. – Michael! Breathe deeply. Concentrate on my voice and breathe.
Michael was soon with eyes closed and with a controlled breath. Haldora took his hands in hers and closed her eyes. She fused her mediation with his near sleep state and led him to a place in the mind where the brain believes it has rested all its needs, giving it a sense of renewal. Michael opened his eyes as Haldora did the same.
- What just happened?
- Witch’s trick. Now grab your keys and go home before it wears off. - She explained as she helped him up and up the stairs. - The employees will help me in the morning. Thanks, you were a great help and I enjoyed chit-chatting with you.
Michael headed out the door. He stood for a few seconds outside looking in at Haldora, smiling at her. She stood doing the same. Finally he went away.
Her heart raced….
- It’s a wonder you can control fire like that? -, Anna spoke awaiting a response for a long conversation. Haldora simply smiled from the side of her mouth and continued her work. Anna understood she needed to introduce the subject herself. – Are you still mad at me for telling Michael to come over? -, Haldora once more did not answer. Anna walked around the garden looking at the plants and recognizing a few. At the far end of the garden stood a table that resembled the table she herself had in her hut. Anna came near it and looked at the potions on display and the supplies neatly placed. It came to her attention a smaller table on the side of the grander table. This smaller one had the light of the moon shone on it; the light came down from the large skylight. The waning Moon. Anna recognized immediately what lay on this table. She took a long breath. – You did a ‘near me’ spell.
Haldora stopped what she was doing and turned to her friend, who now stood backwards to her. Her head hanging down. Her countenance was heavy.
- I did that spell a long time ago. Before he got his internship. That’s where he goes, every morning. He didn’t take the bus and I hadn’t met me on the net. Weeks later I saw him waiting for that bus and coming here. I never touched it again. I didn’t want to contaminate it with any more energy. -, Haldora explained.
- You weren’t angry at me. – Anna realized as she turned around.
- I should have destroyed that spell, but I didn’t and it picked up on your energy as I knew it would. But what is the truth, and that is the worst, I didn’t want to destroy it.
- You took people’s free will. That was our first rule. You don’t manipulate. -, Anna reminded.
- I know. -, Haldora took her carton and lit a cigarette on the gas lamp.
- When did you become a smoker?
- I picked it up when I was hiding in Morocco. Relaxation. And it’s addictive even for the dead. -, Haldora explained.
Anna came close to her and removed the cigarette from her lips.
- It’s a nasty habit. -, she stated as she used it to set the dried leaves of the spell on fire. Soon a small blaze consumed the table. Anna grabbed the water can and put out the fire. – It’s broken.
Haldora was motionless with her eyes stuck to the ground. Anna passed her by on her way out. As Anna closed the street door she the fire lights in the house extinguish and the place was grim and sad. Anna walked down the street towards her own apartment feeling disappointed. She carried with herself Haldora’s guilty and her tears, which began to pour a few yards away from the shop. Inside Haldora, apathetic, lay thrown on the rug in front of the cold fire place.
Days passed and Anna’s presence was not felt anywhere around the shop. Haldora continued her daily routine, but now more quiet then ever. She continued to prepare the shop for the exhibition, carrying books from a place to another to open up space. She was tireless, but only because she wanted to keep busy and not sit by her computer, nor by her window, though her mind would toy with these rituals for her. All faces were of him and her. All voices sounded like them. Haldora was sure she was again alone and by her own fault.
Slow day afternoon and Haldora sat awaiting costumers alone in the empty shop. She continued to attempt to understand the Japonese Comic arts. The door made a sound and Haldora lifted her head as her chest pressed on her. Michael was heading towards her stand with a sad smile upon his face. She was thrown by his presence.
- Hey! -, he greeted, - You’ve been missing in action. I thought it might be good to check up on you.
- I’ve been busy. I had to set up the space. -, she explained pointing to the empty space for the exhibition.
- Oh! So what’s going to be there again?
- A collection of rare editions of the Middle ages, along with … artifacts. – She summarized.
- That’s right you had told me. – There was an uncomfortable pause. – You look really tired.
- I am a bit. You look sad.
- I was worried. I’m still worried. We stopped talking on the net when I met you on the bus and for some reason I can’t shake the feeling that the two events are related. I mean we were anonymous to each other and then we weren’t and I thought that might have messed with your head.
- No. I was just busy. I’ve been busy.
- It has messed with my head, because now you’re real. You’re not just letters. And… the chit-chat we had the other day was great. It was better then reading. -, He explained.
Haldora smilled shyly.
- I’ve miss talking to you. -, she said in a half whisper.
A costumer entered the shop which diverted Haldora’s attention. She moved towards the person to help. Michael stood close to the stand. She took Haldora’s comic from the table and took a look. Haldora settled the costumer’s bill and walked her to the door with all courtesy. She came back to her stand. Michael still looked at her book. He gave her the book back with noticeable embarrassment.
- So… how do we do this? You’re busy working and I don’t want to keep you.
- The time I used to sit by the computer is now the time I spend down in the basement with the artifacts. I have to start bringing them up today.
- Can I help? -, This question pierced Haldora like an arrow. – If it’s boxes I can carry boxes. What am I saying? They need special treatment.
- No. -, Haldora erupted, - I mean, handle with care, but no special treatment. If you’d like to help that would be… nice.
- What time do you want me here?
- Closing time?
- I’ll bring dinner. -, Haldora nodded her head in a dream like stasis while Michael left the shop with a bright smile upon his lips.
Until closing time Haldora was still not sure she had had an actual conversation with her long lost warrior or had just dreamt it. But then she saw him carrying paper bags. If she had been dreaming she had not yet waken up. Haldora opened the door and let him in. He set the bags on the first available table and began taking food from it.
- I realized I didn’t ask you what you liked you to eat, but since you are a true English girl, you like chips and anything fired. -, He explained.
- I like chips.
They both sat down and began to eat. At first the moment was awkward, silence surrounded them.
- This was easier when we were just typing. I don’t think we can be more uncomfortable -, Haldora stated and she filled her mouth with chips.
- So you’re a witch? -, he asked.
Haldora chocked. She coughed as she laughed.
- Scratch that. It can. -, she stated still clearing her throat.
Michael contained his laughter. Haldora got up and went behind the bar, fetching a rather dusty bottle of wine.
- If we’re going to talk about that we might as well make it less uncomfortable. -, she explained as she uncorked it. She brought two beautiful red glasses and poured wine for both of them.
- You do realize you are ruining a XIX century wine on chips? -, Michael asked as he looked at the bottle in complete shock.
- I’m drinking to the company. -, she explained before she took a long sip. – So, witch. Yes I am.
- What does that entail?
- Well. You try to communicate with every living being and try to be patient and not proud and you commune with all of Nature and all things really. -, Michael did not seem very convinced, - Yes, witches can sometimes connect with the spirits of dead people, but it’s not a pre-requisite, and we do spells. Spells are like prayers, but instead of just saying repetitive words that some one else wrote, we make our request our own. We know the power of herbs and animals and geometric forms and star alignments and we know when to ask something. I’m not making any sense.
- Partially.
- It’s hard to explain. It’s like asking some one if they believe in God.
- Do you believe in God? -, He inquired.
- I’ve not met any entity with that name. Though the sky is vast and I’m sure it has room enough for all gods. If people believe in some entity they will be and flourish. Gods die when you forget them. -, she explained showing her experience on the subject.
- So you don’t believe you’re going to Heaven when you die?
Haldora grinned. She took a sip from her wine and ate a chip before she answered.
- Witches believe in reincarnation. I will come again and I will fix the mistakes I did in this life and if I don’t I’ll come back and live them again until there is a balance. Until I’ve learned from them.
Michael was stunned with her honesty about the subject. He could not stop listening to her explain how she felt inside when she took her prayers to he Moon, when she celebrated her festivals. He could almost sense her feelings of fullness and happiness. Though He had though she had been joking, with every single explanation he was convinced of the woman’s devotion. He sat hypnotized by her words.
The chips were over and so was the wine, Michael was feeling tired but has he had promised he helped Haldora carry the many old dusty books from the vault to the exhibition space. He was astonished at the collection Haldora kept. He spent most of the time going through the books instead of carrying them. He couldn’t read any of them, but Haldora knew every single one and even called them by their title, which confused him. She explained what kind of book it was and sometimes read passages from them, her favorite parts. They engaged on conversations over many topics depending on what book they picked up. They discussed the dogmas of the Inquisition and the be
The night was not young anymore and Michael was getting very sleepy from the wine and the tiredness. He struggled to keep awake. Haldora made him sit on the steps.
- You’re tired. I better call you a cab to take you home.
- No, I’m OK. I said I’d help you and we’re almost finished, right?
Haldora looked at the amount of work still to be done and sighed.
- You’re not almost finished. It’s late you should go home. -, she explained. Michael struggled to stay awake. – Michael! Breathe deeply. Concentrate on my voice and breathe.
Michael was soon with eyes closed and with a controlled breath. Haldora took his hands in hers and closed her eyes. She fused her mediation with his near sleep state and led him to a place in the mind where the brain believes it has rested all its needs, giving it a sense of renewal. Michael opened his eyes as Haldora did the same.
- What just happened?
- Witch’s trick. Now grab your keys and go home before it wears off. - She explained as she helped him up and up the stairs. - The employees will help me in the morning. Thanks, you were a great help and I enjoyed chit-chatting with you.
Michael headed out the door. He stood for a few seconds outside looking in at Haldora, smiling at her. She stood doing the same. Finally he went away.
Her heart raced….
CHAPTER XX
Anna came in for work after spending the night at her own house. She believed she would find Haldora still visibly disturbed over what had happened the day before. When she walked in the shop she found Haldora listening to her pop music and looking as she always did, unaffected. Anna pondered for a while before touching the subject. She decided not to bring it up.
- Don’t think I don’t know it was you who told him. -, Haldora worn as Anna passed her by.
- What?
- I can feel the presence of people around me and I felt what you did that day and that night. -, Haldora explained.
Anna looked embarrassed.
- I forgot about that ability. If I remember correctly I never mastered it.
- I told you to let go. I expected you to listen this time.
- Hal, I was only trying to help you. You know, help out a friend.
- Be my friend and let it go. I’m fine like this. -, Haldora ordered.
- I’m sorry but I don’t think you are. Every letter, I remember, mentor sent me always carried the same message. She refuses to forget and learn. She always learns but only for means. Do you know what that means? -, Anna asked. - Haldora began to walk away. – Hella knew it. She used it against you. She knew you would do anything to get to him. She played you and you let her. Now the Goddess, Morrigan, she sent you down and he’s right there in front of you. You weren’t even looking for him. Please how can you not see the sign?
Haldora became angry and let go of a wild scream. The fire, that heated the kettle, rouse to a blaze for a moment, scaring Anna. Haldora was panting.
- I’m sorry. Just let it be. -, Haldora appeared to cry. Anna lowered her head in acceptance.
The employees of the shop began to come in. The discussion had ended. They both went their separate ways, carrying on with their work. None of the women spoke to each other for the course of the morning.
- Anna. -, Haldora called while Anna took her lunch, - I need to leave for a few hours. I need to go to the high street and get some supplies. The Full Moon is coming and Hallo’s Eve. Is it alright if I leave you in charge?
Anna was surprised by the suggestion. She stuttered. Haldora smiled showing all had been forgiven. Anna smiled back nodding her head.
- Ok, then. Be back in a few hours. Call me if you need me.
Haldora left, leaving Anna with a mixture of relief and fright.
Haldora took a bus to the centre of town and went to her normal supply shop. There she met with other practitioners of the old arts. They spoke of the up and coming festivities, while enjoying a cup of tea. She bought rock salt and candles, rocks and sticks of incense. As she was leaving the shop she saw the prefect gift for Anna, the statue of the Egyptian God of Writing Toth. She took it as well. She was planning to bless it in the next Full Moon then presenting it to her, to place on her desk as she wrote.
Haldora took the bus back to the book shop. She sat and took a Japanese comic book from her bag. She was completely hypnotized on her book she did not notice a person, who sat in front of her. She stopped her reading for a moment to consider what she had read, when she felt the pressure on her scar. She took a deep breath and as she looked front she saw him, a touch away.
- Good book?-, he asked.
Haldora wanted to look away but by this time it was impossible.
- It makes you wonder. -, she vaguely answered.
- I’m sorry to disturb you. I was in the book shop yesterday and I wanted to ask you a question. -, Michael explained.
- Of course. Go ahead.
- How did you know what book I wanted?
Haldora giggled.
- It comes with experience. Old and bout the Middle Ages? There’s only one, a good one. -, she explained.
Haldora noticed she was at her stop. She pressed the button to ask the driver to stop and got up. Michael followed her. She felt very uncomfortable being in such proximity of him. She stepped down from the bus and he followed her.
- I’m really sorry if I seem like I’m stoking you. -, Haldora could not help but smile, - I only spoke about this book with one person. I just wanted to know if… Are you ‘Bookworm1000’? -, he asked with perfect conscious of the kind of silly question he had just asked.
Haldora stopped at the door upon hearing his question. She turned back with an embarrassing look upon her face. He took it as an affirmative answer, smiling at her.
- Can I offer you some tea? -, she politely asked.
- You remembered I don’t like coffee. -, he acknowledged.
- You’re in England it’s customary to offer tea first. -, she explained, leaving him disappointed, - Though I remember coffee makes you nauseous.
Michael laughed as they walked in the shop. Anna was surprised to see him back and even more so to see him with Haldora. They went straight to the cafeteria. Haldora made tea and he sat at a table waiting for her. Anna came close to try and hear what they would talk about, but all she received was the bag of supplies from Haldora’s hands. Haldora sat with Michael giving him his tea.
- Yes. I am. -, she announced.
- I know the internet is supposed to be an anonymous place, but… you’re a legend in the chat room. The things you know are beyond all of us. Plus we all tough you were a guy. -, she smiled at his remarks.
- I’m sorry if I was rude yesterday. I was intimidated to have someone from the chat room here. -, she explained.
- How did you know?
- You have a picture on your profile.
Michael grinned at the reminder.
- You have the picture of a woman holding the Moon. Who’s that?
- The Triple Goddess. She’s a pagan Goddess. She means the world to us witches. -, Haldora explained very openly.
- Witches? -, he asked almost choking on his tea,
- Yes! I’m a witch. A practitioner of the old craft.
- You do spells and see spirits? -, Michael asked, extremely interested.
Haldora started looking very intensely to Michael’s arm. He became very uncomfortable. He looked back to see if there was some one behind him, but there was no one.
- Do you see one right now? -, he asked.
Haldora very slowly reached for him and took a small feather from his leather jacket, then smiled. He grinned realizing he had just been joked.
- Mediums see spirits, witches just do spells. -, she explained.
- Maybe I should introduce myself. I am…
- ‘M.A. Warrior’ -, she completed.
- Yes. I was actually thinking of telling you my name…
- Michael Alexander. -, she again completed, he looked intrigued, - It was on your credit card. M. A. = Michael Alexander. -, she explained.
- Ya. It also means…
- I am a warrior. A play on words. -, she rushed.
Haldora took a very long sip of her tea, while she realized she was embarrassing herself. Michael on the other hand thought her funny.
- So you work here?-, he tried to make conversation.
- Actually I own it. -, she explained.
- You’re Hal? -, she nodded, - Again, I thought you were a guy.
The afternoon went by with idle conversation between them. It was just as if they were online, loose and entertaining. They spoke of the news releases and of the new exhibition Haldora would be hosting. About how Haldora had opened the book shop and what a great idea it had been. She mentioned she lived above and told the story of the Kilpatrick family. They discussed the book she had been reading on the bus. He had impressive knowledge of the stories surrounding the characters. Haldora found it confusing and stupid, but from his lips no word was wasted or wrong.
At closing time he was the last to leave, save for Anna, who, stayed with a defiant and confident look upon her eyes. Haldora understood…
- Don’t think I don’t know it was you who told him. -, Haldora worn as Anna passed her by.
- What?
- I can feel the presence of people around me and I felt what you did that day and that night. -, Haldora explained.
Anna looked embarrassed.
- I forgot about that ability. If I remember correctly I never mastered it.
- I told you to let go. I expected you to listen this time.
- Hal, I was only trying to help you. You know, help out a friend.
- Be my friend and let it go. I’m fine like this. -, Haldora ordered.
- I’m sorry but I don’t think you are. Every letter, I remember, mentor sent me always carried the same message. She refuses to forget and learn. She always learns but only for means. Do you know what that means? -, Anna asked. - Haldora began to walk away. – Hella knew it. She used it against you. She knew you would do anything to get to him. She played you and you let her. Now the Goddess, Morrigan, she sent you down and he’s right there in front of you. You weren’t even looking for him. Please how can you not see the sign?
Haldora became angry and let go of a wild scream. The fire, that heated the kettle, rouse to a blaze for a moment, scaring Anna. Haldora was panting.
- I’m sorry. Just let it be. -, Haldora appeared to cry. Anna lowered her head in acceptance.
The employees of the shop began to come in. The discussion had ended. They both went their separate ways, carrying on with their work. None of the women spoke to each other for the course of the morning.
- Anna. -, Haldora called while Anna took her lunch, - I need to leave for a few hours. I need to go to the high street and get some supplies. The Full Moon is coming and Hallo’s Eve. Is it alright if I leave you in charge?
Anna was surprised by the suggestion. She stuttered. Haldora smiled showing all had been forgiven. Anna smiled back nodding her head.
- Ok, then. Be back in a few hours. Call me if you need me.
Haldora left, leaving Anna with a mixture of relief and fright.
Haldora took a bus to the centre of town and went to her normal supply shop. There she met with other practitioners of the old arts. They spoke of the up and coming festivities, while enjoying a cup of tea. She bought rock salt and candles, rocks and sticks of incense. As she was leaving the shop she saw the prefect gift for Anna, the statue of the Egyptian God of Writing Toth. She took it as well. She was planning to bless it in the next Full Moon then presenting it to her, to place on her desk as she wrote.
Haldora took the bus back to the book shop. She sat and took a Japanese comic book from her bag. She was completely hypnotized on her book she did not notice a person, who sat in front of her. She stopped her reading for a moment to consider what she had read, when she felt the pressure on her scar. She took a deep breath and as she looked front she saw him, a touch away.
- Good book?-, he asked.
Haldora wanted to look away but by this time it was impossible.
- It makes you wonder. -, she vaguely answered.
- I’m sorry to disturb you. I was in the book shop yesterday and I wanted to ask you a question. -, Michael explained.
- Of course. Go ahead.
- How did you know what book I wanted?
Haldora giggled.
- It comes with experience. Old and bout the Middle Ages? There’s only one, a good one. -, she explained.
Haldora noticed she was at her stop. She pressed the button to ask the driver to stop and got up. Michael followed her. She felt very uncomfortable being in such proximity of him. She stepped down from the bus and he followed her.
- I’m really sorry if I seem like I’m stoking you. -, Haldora could not help but smile, - I only spoke about this book with one person. I just wanted to know if… Are you ‘Bookworm1000’? -, he asked with perfect conscious of the kind of silly question he had just asked.
Haldora stopped at the door upon hearing his question. She turned back with an embarrassing look upon her face. He took it as an affirmative answer, smiling at her.
- Can I offer you some tea? -, she politely asked.
- You remembered I don’t like coffee. -, he acknowledged.
- You’re in England it’s customary to offer tea first. -, she explained, leaving him disappointed, - Though I remember coffee makes you nauseous.
Michael laughed as they walked in the shop. Anna was surprised to see him back and even more so to see him with Haldora. They went straight to the cafeteria. Haldora made tea and he sat at a table waiting for her. Anna came close to try and hear what they would talk about, but all she received was the bag of supplies from Haldora’s hands. Haldora sat with Michael giving him his tea.
- Yes. I am. -, she announced.
- I know the internet is supposed to be an anonymous place, but… you’re a legend in the chat room. The things you know are beyond all of us. Plus we all tough you were a guy. -, she smiled at his remarks.
- I’m sorry if I was rude yesterday. I was intimidated to have someone from the chat room here. -, she explained.
- How did you know?
- You have a picture on your profile.
Michael grinned at the reminder.
- You have the picture of a woman holding the Moon. Who’s that?
- The Triple Goddess. She’s a pagan Goddess. She means the world to us witches. -, Haldora explained very openly.
- Witches? -, he asked almost choking on his tea,
- Yes! I’m a witch. A practitioner of the old craft.
- You do spells and see spirits? -, Michael asked, extremely interested.
Haldora started looking very intensely to Michael’s arm. He became very uncomfortable. He looked back to see if there was some one behind him, but there was no one.
- Do you see one right now? -, he asked.
Haldora very slowly reached for him and took a small feather from his leather jacket, then smiled. He grinned realizing he had just been joked.
- Mediums see spirits, witches just do spells. -, she explained.
- Maybe I should introduce myself. I am…
- ‘M.A. Warrior’ -, she completed.
- Yes. I was actually thinking of telling you my name…
- Michael Alexander. -, she again completed, he looked intrigued, - It was on your credit card. M. A. = Michael Alexander. -, she explained.
- Ya. It also means…
- I am a warrior. A play on words. -, she rushed.
Haldora took a very long sip of her tea, while she realized she was embarrassing herself. Michael on the other hand thought her funny.
- So you work here?-, he tried to make conversation.
- Actually I own it. -, she explained.
- You’re Hal? -, she nodded, - Again, I thought you were a guy.
The afternoon went by with idle conversation between them. It was just as if they were online, loose and entertaining. They spoke of the news releases and of the new exhibition Haldora would be hosting. About how Haldora had opened the book shop and what a great idea it had been. She mentioned she lived above and told the story of the Kilpatrick family. They discussed the book she had been reading on the bus. He had impressive knowledge of the stories surrounding the characters. Haldora found it confusing and stupid, but from his lips no word was wasted or wrong.
At closing time he was the last to leave, save for Anna, who, stayed with a defiant and confident look upon her eyes. Haldora understood…
Sunday, March 25, 2007
CHAPTER XIX
Anna slept in and she awoke she could not sense the smell of tobacco in the air. She did sense the smell of fresh earth. She got up and found clothes laid down for her. She took a long bath in the enormous tub. She caught her friend looking at her from the door, after a while. Haldora offered her coffee. Anna sat and drank her coffee, while Haldora sat down on the edge of the tub.
- I couldn’t help myself. It’s such a large tub, you can swim in it.
- That’s why I bought it. It’s very relaxing. You’re welcome to stay in till you turn to a prune.
Haldora got up and lit one of the candles. She concentrated on the fire and pretty soon all candles were lit. Anna tilted her head impressed. Haldora smiled and came back to the tub.
- Hal! I’m thinking I’m going to go back to my apartment tonight. -, Anna announced.
- You don’t like it here?
- It’s not that. But I do have an apartment and although I love being here with you, I need to go back. -, Anna explained.
- I’m sorry if I sounded like I want to keep you here. It’s just I haven’t had a lot of company in the last few… centuries. It feels good to have you around.
- I know. And I can’t thank you enough for helping me out, but I need my things. I have my unfinished work at my apartment… You know how it is.
Haldora expressed curiosity.
- Unfinished work? -, Haldora asked walking towards her friend.
- Ya. I’m a writer. Well, I write stuff. I applied for a Foundation scholarship and I didn’t get it. -, Anna explained.
- Can I read some of your work?
- When I get around to finishing something, sure.
Both women laughed.
- You have changed. You used to be very meticulous and never leave anything undone. -, Haldora noticed.
- Yes and you used to not be so patient. -, Anna replied, - Time as changed us.
- If there is one thing I’ve learned in a thousand years of existence. The more things change the more they stay the same.
Anna took one last sip of her coffee.
- Go and get your work. When you saw talent in me you took me to the master and it’s time I repay the favor. Finish one project and I will take you to see a master editor. -, Haldora announced to Anna’s surprise.
- I don’t want you to do that. You’ve already given me a job and I can’t push this.
- My sister did what she could for me and I will do what I can for her. You saved my life when you took me to Stonehenge. I think you can push it as far as it goes.
Anna hugged her friend tightly emotionally, getting her all wet.
- Ok girl, I think we need to start working otherwise I’m going to start crying. -, Anna then said.
Haldora let go of her friend’s embrace. They went their separate ways. Anna got up and left her bath. Haldora changed her clothes. Anna joined her friend downstairs. Haldora turned on the radio but instead of the ambience music that had been playing the day before, the speakers started sounding pop music. Haldora danced to the music as she opened some new boxes that had arrived. Anna was now completely shocked at to the music she was listening to.
- Oh come on, don’t tell me you hate this music too. It’s the only time I get to listen to it.
- I can’t believe it. One thousand years of existence and you enjoy pop? -, Anna asked.
- I’ve had one thousand years to think, can I listen to a few hours of music with no contents to make me think? -, Haldora asked.
- You may have now just defined what pop music is all about. -, Anna stated.
- Get to work. -, Haldora ordered.
The day continued uneventful, with people coming in and out. Some just for coffee and others to inquired over books, others even just to read a new chapter. It was obvious that Haldora was now happier then ever, she would smile frequently as she would watch Anna at work. Again she was among those who accepted her. Anna was content to have her old friend back. The friend she knew would never let her go.
In mid afternoon, as Haldora was analyzing the best way to expose the new exhibit, Michael entered the book shop. Haldora felt dizzy for a moment, her scar pressed on her chest. She looked to the side, still trying to catch her breath and saw him. He looked around the shelves for the precious book he had discussed the night before. Haldora looked around her and all were unaware of her discomfort. She decided to move away but as she did, he called her attention.
- Yes! -, she answered staring at the floor.
- I’m sorry, I’m looking for a very old book, on the Middle Ages, I was told… -, before she could finish his sentence, Haldora shoved the book he wanted in his hands. He was amazed, she had gotten it right. - Thanks.
Haldora dared to look up to his face and master a smile. He smiled back. For a second they both stared at each other as if they were trying to know each other, but nothing came from it. Haldora rushed to settle his bill and send him on his way. He did not rush out, instead he lingered for a while looking through the many shelves. Haldora could not stop watching him. The pressure on her chest grew as did her fear for lack of self control. Anna looked from a far at the partial success of her plan.
Upon leaving the shop, Haldora would swear she could still smell his presence in the air. She was unable to utter another word that day.
- I couldn’t help myself. It’s such a large tub, you can swim in it.
- That’s why I bought it. It’s very relaxing. You’re welcome to stay in till you turn to a prune.
Haldora got up and lit one of the candles. She concentrated on the fire and pretty soon all candles were lit. Anna tilted her head impressed. Haldora smiled and came back to the tub.
- Hal! I’m thinking I’m going to go back to my apartment tonight. -, Anna announced.
- You don’t like it here?
- It’s not that. But I do have an apartment and although I love being here with you, I need to go back. -, Anna explained.
- I’m sorry if I sounded like I want to keep you here. It’s just I haven’t had a lot of company in the last few… centuries. It feels good to have you around.
- I know. And I can’t thank you enough for helping me out, but I need my things. I have my unfinished work at my apartment… You know how it is.
Haldora expressed curiosity.
- Unfinished work? -, Haldora asked walking towards her friend.
- Ya. I’m a writer. Well, I write stuff. I applied for a Foundation scholarship and I didn’t get it. -, Anna explained.
- Can I read some of your work?
- When I get around to finishing something, sure.
Both women laughed.
- You have changed. You used to be very meticulous and never leave anything undone. -, Haldora noticed.
- Yes and you used to not be so patient. -, Anna replied, - Time as changed us.
- If there is one thing I’ve learned in a thousand years of existence. The more things change the more they stay the same.
Anna took one last sip of her coffee.
- Go and get your work. When you saw talent in me you took me to the master and it’s time I repay the favor. Finish one project and I will take you to see a master editor. -, Haldora announced to Anna’s surprise.
- I don’t want you to do that. You’ve already given me a job and I can’t push this.
- My sister did what she could for me and I will do what I can for her. You saved my life when you took me to Stonehenge. I think you can push it as far as it goes.
Anna hugged her friend tightly emotionally, getting her all wet.
- Ok girl, I think we need to start working otherwise I’m going to start crying. -, Anna then said.
Haldora let go of her friend’s embrace. They went their separate ways. Anna got up and left her bath. Haldora changed her clothes. Anna joined her friend downstairs. Haldora turned on the radio but instead of the ambience music that had been playing the day before, the speakers started sounding pop music. Haldora danced to the music as she opened some new boxes that had arrived. Anna was now completely shocked at to the music she was listening to.
- Oh come on, don’t tell me you hate this music too. It’s the only time I get to listen to it.
- I can’t believe it. One thousand years of existence and you enjoy pop? -, Anna asked.
- I’ve had one thousand years to think, can I listen to a few hours of music with no contents to make me think? -, Haldora asked.
- You may have now just defined what pop music is all about. -, Anna stated.
- Get to work. -, Haldora ordered.
The day continued uneventful, with people coming in and out. Some just for coffee and others to inquired over books, others even just to read a new chapter. It was obvious that Haldora was now happier then ever, she would smile frequently as she would watch Anna at work. Again she was among those who accepted her. Anna was content to have her old friend back. The friend she knew would never let her go.
In mid afternoon, as Haldora was analyzing the best way to expose the new exhibit, Michael entered the book shop. Haldora felt dizzy for a moment, her scar pressed on her chest. She looked to the side, still trying to catch her breath and saw him. He looked around the shelves for the precious book he had discussed the night before. Haldora looked around her and all were unaware of her discomfort. She decided to move away but as she did, he called her attention.
- Yes! -, she answered staring at the floor.
- I’m sorry, I’m looking for a very old book, on the Middle Ages, I was told… -, before she could finish his sentence, Haldora shoved the book he wanted in his hands. He was amazed, she had gotten it right. - Thanks.
Haldora dared to look up to his face and master a smile. He smiled back. For a second they both stared at each other as if they were trying to know each other, but nothing came from it. Haldora rushed to settle his bill and send him on his way. He did not rush out, instead he lingered for a while looking through the many shelves. Haldora could not stop watching him. The pressure on her chest grew as did her fear for lack of self control. Anna looked from a far at the partial success of her plan.
Upon leaving the shop, Haldora would swear she could still smell his presence in the air. She was unable to utter another word that day.
CHAPTER XVIII
Anna awoke with a faint smell of tobacco smoke in the air. She opened the drapes of the bed and found Haldora sitting in front of the window, looking out with a cigarette between her fingers. Haldora looked hypnotized. Anna got up from the bed and walked softly towards her friend. Haldora was motionless. Anna sat down next to her and stared at what she stared. To Anna there was a lonely street and a bus station.
- You know those things will kill you?
- Wishful thinking?
Both women laughed.
- So what are we looking at? -, Anna asked looking around the street.
Haldora silenced herself and kept looking through the window. Anna looked out to try and understand what she was looking at. She soon discovered Haldora was looking at the parking lot. Anna skimmed the cars parked but found nothing of interesting. Haldora took a long drag and as she exhaled she breath sounded deeper. Anna then saw a silver car parking and a tall blonde man came out. He made his way towards the bus station. Anna could not see his face, though Haldora’s expression betrayed his identity.
- That’s your warrior. -, Anna understood.
Haldora seemed to blush for a second as she lowered her eyes.
- You sly thing. You found him.
- He found me. For years I lived in this house and he just showed up here one day and never disappeared. -, Haldora explained.
- For how long did you search for him?
- I died a thousand years ago. I haven’t always searched for him.
Anna took a better look at this man. He leaned on the poll and read a book, while listening to music on his headphones. His expression of concentration was heavy, making him look severe, though he still had some attractiveness in him.
- He is handsome. -, Anna stated.
- He looks like the Viking he is. -, Haldora completed.
- I’m thinking it’s in his genes, or in his jeans. -, Anna joked.
- He never wears jeans. -, Haldora corrected unaware of the joke.
- You didn’t show me these events. Have you spoken to him or done anything? -, Anna inquired. Anna waited for the answer that never came for a while; - You know what I would do? On those cold winter snowy mornings I would go out and offer him a cup of coffee. -, she suggested.
- Coffee makes him nauseous. -, Haldora immediately replied.
- You tried it?
- No. I just know.
Anna silenced and looked at him as Haldora did. She continued to smoke slowly. The silence became too thick for both women. Anna wanted to speak but could not introduce the subject. Haldora took a long drag and then a deep breath.
- He always arrives at 6:30 to get the 6:45 bus. He’s always the first on the cue. He parks his car on the closest spot to the exit. He always brings a book and he is always listening to music. He always sits on the second seat to the left, when he goes in the bus. He recently cut his hair, it was longer. Looks better then the last time he did it. There was a bald spot on the front. I guess, bad hairdresser.
- You’ve been watching him for a while. -, Haldora nodded. - Can you imagine if he knew you have been searching for him for the better part of a thousand years? -, Anna asked, dreamingly.
- He’d probably think I was a stoker. -, Haldora answered coldly.
- Do you even know his name?
Haldora took a long pause. Anna believed she did not know.
- Michael Alexander. -, Haldora eventually answered.
- Sounding name. How did you find out?
- I had his license plates ran by the Department of Motorized Vehicles.
- Ok. If you’re not a stoker you’re getting close. -, Anna stated in amazement. – What else did you find out?
- He pays his insurance on time and he didn’t report the time he scraped his car on the dustbin while he was taking the car out of a tight squeeze. -, Haldora explained.
- Ok, you are a full fledge stoker. -, Anna announced, - Don’t you think it’s about time you’ve met him? -, Anna asked, touching Haldora’s shoulder.
For a second she looked away from her warrior and glimpsed at her friend with the saddest expression.
- Every time I met him something went wrong. -, Anna looked confused. - He sent me to a nunnery, after I saved his life, because I was a heathen. He sent me to the Inquisition Fire, though we were getting along, because I had a scar. He once even thought I was the Holly Mary, but when I tried to kiss him, he called me a demon. Those were not the experiences I wanted to have with him.
The bus arrived and he walked in. He sat on the second seat to the left and continued to read his book.
- ‘Niht.’-, Haldora said as she got up.
Anna was not sure she had understood what she had said, but it had sounded like ‘Night’. Haldora threw her cigarette into the fireplace and turned back.
- You need breakfast. The pastry supplier should be arriving shortly. If you’re really hungry I think there are still some cakes left from yesterday.
Anna got up and followed her friend downstairs, amazed she could change so much from the time she was looking out the window to now. She attempted no more questions about the warrior. She knew her friend would talk when she felt ready to do so.
Haldora began preparations to open the shop. Receiving suppliers and restocking the cafeteria and franticly cleaning the sofas and the rugs. Anna felt relatively useless sitting by the cafeteria drinking her coffee and eating as much cake as she could. Haldora was silent all through the preparation stage, speaking only to greet her employees and introduce them to Anna. For her part Anna watched Haldora closely as to learn all she could, so she would not let her friend down.
The shop was finally open and Haldora began showing Anna, exactly what she would be doing. They toured the entire bookshop. Talking about all the different sections in which it was divided. Haldora also showed Anna the different storage areas, as well as the lounge for the employees to eat, dress and relax with a bit of TV. For last Haldora left the vault, a cave where some of the biggest treasures of the Kilpatrick library were hidden. Only Haldora had access to this vault. The heavy door opened to show a multitude of old books, arranged very neatly. Anna looked at them in awe, realizing they were of many languages and different epochs. She even recognized a book from their old master among the many books. In the centre of the room also stood many weapons from times before. Haldora explained some of the origins of the many weapons on display. Anna did not pay much attention. She was more interested in the display cases way at the back of the vault. An armor and a dress. Anna found them extremely familiar.
- The Kilpatricks have had this armor since forever. It’s similar to the one he was wearing when he died. Sometimes it even looks the same. The dress I made myself, not so long ago. A replica of what was. – Haldora explained as Anna looked around the cases.
- Did Michael ever come into the bookshop?
- Yes. But he’s always on the run when he comes.
- I’d open early if I were you, just to see him coming in. -, Anna suggest.
- Anna. I’m not going to get in his way. Not anymore. It’s best he doesn’t know me. I’m happy to just watch from a distance. I wouldn’t even know what to say if he would speak to me. It’s better this way.
- Hal, you knew what to say a couple of centuries ago, I’m sure the rules of romance haven’t changed all that much.
Haldora signaled Anna to leave the vault. Anna followed Haldora out of the vault.
- Hal, don’t you have this longing to meet him and find out how he really is? I mean right now he is a figure, don’t you want to know him? You killed yourself for him. -, Anna asked as Haldora closed the door.
- I killed myself because of him. Don’t mistake the words. Anna I really don’t want to talk about this anymore. I’m happy this way.
Haldora and Anna made their way up. Haldora’s expression changed. She became concentrated on work. Anna did not push the subject anymore.
Sometime during the day Haldora gave Anna access to her own computer, so she could keep track of sales and suppliers, stocks and payments. As Anna was learning how to operate this new program, Haldora was pulled away from her teaching role to assist a supplier. While she was meeting with this man, Anna, left to herself, began searching Haldora’s computer, clicking on every icon to see what was behind it. At one icon she found a chat room, she read some of the conversations Haldora saved. Anna became aware the conversation was mostly about history and newly read books. It would be uneventful if Anna did not read the name of the person Haldora was talking to, ‘M.A. Warrior’. Anna closed the chat room and kept on searching all other icons. As soon as she clicked she had the indication of password request. Anna was sure of what to type. ‘Michael Alexander’. The password was accepted and Anna found a long list of photographs. She clicked on the first photograph and a slideshow began. All photos were of Michael, most of them taken from the same angle as the window where Anna and Haldora had previously been watching him. Some were taken elsewhere in town and in the near by towns. Some were even taken on the bus. The photos showed him in different styled hair and some looked younger than others. In some photos there seemed to be a presence next to him, but that person was never caught on camera. Anna was now sure of her friend’s obsession. She closed all icons and returned to her study of the computer program that would serve as basis to her work, though her mind was working on the best way to make Haldora meet this man. If nothing else to shatter her illusions.
The work day was coming to an end and the employees left one by one, leaving Anna and Haldora alone. Haldora closed the shop and at a given time she excused herself and ran up to her loft. Anna followed her quietly soon after and saw her sitting on the same spot, again with a cigarette between her fingers, looking out of the window. Anna came back down in time to see the bus arriving and Michael walking to his car, still with his headphones on and his book underneath his arm. As he pulled away Anna caught a glimpse of the dent Haldora had spoken of before. Soon after he was gone Haldora came back down as if nothing had happened. Anna carried on putting books on shelves as if she had seen nothing.
- The store is yours. I need to go put some affairs in order and I may be a while; order food; watch TV in the lounge; whatever you want. -, Haldora suggested.
- I would really like to see you do things, just to get better acquainted with this. -, Anna replied.
- It’s best you take it case by case. Besides I’m going to be doing Foundation stuff and I don’t want to confuse you with that. -, Haldora explained.
Anna took the explanation reluctantly. Haldora sat at her computer and at first she really seemed to be working on Foundation business. After a few hours, Anna walked by and noticed her expression had changed. She had dropped all documents to concentrate only on the screen. Anna made some coffee and noticed a thick book next to the computer. Haldora was now grinning at her own typing. Anna watched her for a while and came close. Haldora stopped typing as soon as she was close.
- Sorry! I was just wondering about that book. It wasn’t here before. -, Anna explained.
- It’s just a history of myths and legends of the Middle Ages. It’s old, but the best. We have the only remaining copies. I’m … searching for a new editor to release it. -, it was obvious Haldora was lying.
Anna smiled and walked back to the lounge to watch TV. She was more attentive to the Haldora’s movements. She awaited her to go to the loft. At long last Haldora passed by.
- I’m going to go upstairs and attend to my garden. -, Haldora explained.
- I’ll be right there. Just want to finish watching this. -, Anna announced.
Haldora went up to the loft. Anna headed immediately to the computer, clicking on the chat room icon and hurriedly read the conversation saved. Haldora’s deception was uncovered. She had been speaking to M.A. Warrior about this very old book she had had next to her while they were talking. From the contents of the conversation she was quiet sure Haldora had read it before. She seemed to have a chronological knowledge of the book. Haldora had not, however, mentioned that the book could be found in Hal’s Book Shop. Anna raised her eyes to check for her friend’s presence and seeing as she wasn’t there, continued with her plan. She registered on the chat room herself and searched for M.A. Warrior, leaving him a message that this book could be found at the shop. She closed the site and leant back on the chair, looking treacherous.
Waiting… Anticipating… So close…
- You know those things will kill you?
- Wishful thinking?
Both women laughed.
- So what are we looking at? -, Anna asked looking around the street.
Haldora silenced herself and kept looking through the window. Anna looked out to try and understand what she was looking at. She soon discovered Haldora was looking at the parking lot. Anna skimmed the cars parked but found nothing of interesting. Haldora took a long drag and as she exhaled she breath sounded deeper. Anna then saw a silver car parking and a tall blonde man came out. He made his way towards the bus station. Anna could not see his face, though Haldora’s expression betrayed his identity.
- That’s your warrior. -, Anna understood.
Haldora seemed to blush for a second as she lowered her eyes.
- You sly thing. You found him.
- He found me. For years I lived in this house and he just showed up here one day and never disappeared. -, Haldora explained.
- For how long did you search for him?
- I died a thousand years ago. I haven’t always searched for him.
Anna took a better look at this man. He leaned on the poll and read a book, while listening to music on his headphones. His expression of concentration was heavy, making him look severe, though he still had some attractiveness in him.
- He is handsome. -, Anna stated.
- He looks like the Viking he is. -, Haldora completed.
- I’m thinking it’s in his genes, or in his jeans. -, Anna joked.
- He never wears jeans. -, Haldora corrected unaware of the joke.
- You didn’t show me these events. Have you spoken to him or done anything? -, Anna inquired. Anna waited for the answer that never came for a while; - You know what I would do? On those cold winter snowy mornings I would go out and offer him a cup of coffee. -, she suggested.
- Coffee makes him nauseous. -, Haldora immediately replied.
- You tried it?
- No. I just know.
Anna silenced and looked at him as Haldora did. She continued to smoke slowly. The silence became too thick for both women. Anna wanted to speak but could not introduce the subject. Haldora took a long drag and then a deep breath.
- He always arrives at 6:30 to get the 6:45 bus. He’s always the first on the cue. He parks his car on the closest spot to the exit. He always brings a book and he is always listening to music. He always sits on the second seat to the left, when he goes in the bus. He recently cut his hair, it was longer. Looks better then the last time he did it. There was a bald spot on the front. I guess, bad hairdresser.
- You’ve been watching him for a while. -, Haldora nodded. - Can you imagine if he knew you have been searching for him for the better part of a thousand years? -, Anna asked, dreamingly.
- He’d probably think I was a stoker. -, Haldora answered coldly.
- Do you even know his name?
Haldora took a long pause. Anna believed she did not know.
- Michael Alexander. -, Haldora eventually answered.
- Sounding name. How did you find out?
- I had his license plates ran by the Department of Motorized Vehicles.
- Ok. If you’re not a stoker you’re getting close. -, Anna stated in amazement. – What else did you find out?
- He pays his insurance on time and he didn’t report the time he scraped his car on the dustbin while he was taking the car out of a tight squeeze. -, Haldora explained.
- Ok, you are a full fledge stoker. -, Anna announced, - Don’t you think it’s about time you’ve met him? -, Anna asked, touching Haldora’s shoulder.
For a second she looked away from her warrior and glimpsed at her friend with the saddest expression.
- Every time I met him something went wrong. -, Anna looked confused. - He sent me to a nunnery, after I saved his life, because I was a heathen. He sent me to the Inquisition Fire, though we were getting along, because I had a scar. He once even thought I was the Holly Mary, but when I tried to kiss him, he called me a demon. Those were not the experiences I wanted to have with him.
The bus arrived and he walked in. He sat on the second seat to the left and continued to read his book.
- ‘Niht.’-, Haldora said as she got up.
Anna was not sure she had understood what she had said, but it had sounded like ‘Night’. Haldora threw her cigarette into the fireplace and turned back.
- You need breakfast. The pastry supplier should be arriving shortly. If you’re really hungry I think there are still some cakes left from yesterday.
Anna got up and followed her friend downstairs, amazed she could change so much from the time she was looking out the window to now. She attempted no more questions about the warrior. She knew her friend would talk when she felt ready to do so.
Haldora began preparations to open the shop. Receiving suppliers and restocking the cafeteria and franticly cleaning the sofas and the rugs. Anna felt relatively useless sitting by the cafeteria drinking her coffee and eating as much cake as she could. Haldora was silent all through the preparation stage, speaking only to greet her employees and introduce them to Anna. For her part Anna watched Haldora closely as to learn all she could, so she would not let her friend down.
The shop was finally open and Haldora began showing Anna, exactly what she would be doing. They toured the entire bookshop. Talking about all the different sections in which it was divided. Haldora also showed Anna the different storage areas, as well as the lounge for the employees to eat, dress and relax with a bit of TV. For last Haldora left the vault, a cave where some of the biggest treasures of the Kilpatrick library were hidden. Only Haldora had access to this vault. The heavy door opened to show a multitude of old books, arranged very neatly. Anna looked at them in awe, realizing they were of many languages and different epochs. She even recognized a book from their old master among the many books. In the centre of the room also stood many weapons from times before. Haldora explained some of the origins of the many weapons on display. Anna did not pay much attention. She was more interested in the display cases way at the back of the vault. An armor and a dress. Anna found them extremely familiar.
- The Kilpatricks have had this armor since forever. It’s similar to the one he was wearing when he died. Sometimes it even looks the same. The dress I made myself, not so long ago. A replica of what was. – Haldora explained as Anna looked around the cases.
- Did Michael ever come into the bookshop?
- Yes. But he’s always on the run when he comes.
- I’d open early if I were you, just to see him coming in. -, Anna suggest.
- Anna. I’m not going to get in his way. Not anymore. It’s best he doesn’t know me. I’m happy to just watch from a distance. I wouldn’t even know what to say if he would speak to me. It’s better this way.
- Hal, you knew what to say a couple of centuries ago, I’m sure the rules of romance haven’t changed all that much.
Haldora signaled Anna to leave the vault. Anna followed Haldora out of the vault.
- Hal, don’t you have this longing to meet him and find out how he really is? I mean right now he is a figure, don’t you want to know him? You killed yourself for him. -, Anna asked as Haldora closed the door.
- I killed myself because of him. Don’t mistake the words. Anna I really don’t want to talk about this anymore. I’m happy this way.
Haldora and Anna made their way up. Haldora’s expression changed. She became concentrated on work. Anna did not push the subject anymore.
Sometime during the day Haldora gave Anna access to her own computer, so she could keep track of sales and suppliers, stocks and payments. As Anna was learning how to operate this new program, Haldora was pulled away from her teaching role to assist a supplier. While she was meeting with this man, Anna, left to herself, began searching Haldora’s computer, clicking on every icon to see what was behind it. At one icon she found a chat room, she read some of the conversations Haldora saved. Anna became aware the conversation was mostly about history and newly read books. It would be uneventful if Anna did not read the name of the person Haldora was talking to, ‘M.A. Warrior’. Anna closed the chat room and kept on searching all other icons. As soon as she clicked she had the indication of password request. Anna was sure of what to type. ‘Michael Alexander’. The password was accepted and Anna found a long list of photographs. She clicked on the first photograph and a slideshow began. All photos were of Michael, most of them taken from the same angle as the window where Anna and Haldora had previously been watching him. Some were taken elsewhere in town and in the near by towns. Some were even taken on the bus. The photos showed him in different styled hair and some looked younger than others. In some photos there seemed to be a presence next to him, but that person was never caught on camera. Anna was now sure of her friend’s obsession. She closed all icons and returned to her study of the computer program that would serve as basis to her work, though her mind was working on the best way to make Haldora meet this man. If nothing else to shatter her illusions.
The work day was coming to an end and the employees left one by one, leaving Anna and Haldora alone. Haldora closed the shop and at a given time she excused herself and ran up to her loft. Anna followed her quietly soon after and saw her sitting on the same spot, again with a cigarette between her fingers, looking out of the window. Anna came back down in time to see the bus arriving and Michael walking to his car, still with his headphones on and his book underneath his arm. As he pulled away Anna caught a glimpse of the dent Haldora had spoken of before. Soon after he was gone Haldora came back down as if nothing had happened. Anna carried on putting books on shelves as if she had seen nothing.
- The store is yours. I need to go put some affairs in order and I may be a while; order food; watch TV in the lounge; whatever you want. -, Haldora suggested.
- I would really like to see you do things, just to get better acquainted with this. -, Anna replied.
- It’s best you take it case by case. Besides I’m going to be doing Foundation stuff and I don’t want to confuse you with that. -, Haldora explained.
Anna took the explanation reluctantly. Haldora sat at her computer and at first she really seemed to be working on Foundation business. After a few hours, Anna walked by and noticed her expression had changed. She had dropped all documents to concentrate only on the screen. Anna made some coffee and noticed a thick book next to the computer. Haldora was now grinning at her own typing. Anna watched her for a while and came close. Haldora stopped typing as soon as she was close.
- Sorry! I was just wondering about that book. It wasn’t here before. -, Anna explained.
- It’s just a history of myths and legends of the Middle Ages. It’s old, but the best. We have the only remaining copies. I’m … searching for a new editor to release it. -, it was obvious Haldora was lying.
Anna smiled and walked back to the lounge to watch TV. She was more attentive to the Haldora’s movements. She awaited her to go to the loft. At long last Haldora passed by.
- I’m going to go upstairs and attend to my garden. -, Haldora explained.
- I’ll be right there. Just want to finish watching this. -, Anna announced.
Haldora went up to the loft. Anna headed immediately to the computer, clicking on the chat room icon and hurriedly read the conversation saved. Haldora’s deception was uncovered. She had been speaking to M.A. Warrior about this very old book she had had next to her while they were talking. From the contents of the conversation she was quiet sure Haldora had read it before. She seemed to have a chronological knowledge of the book. Haldora had not, however, mentioned that the book could be found in Hal’s Book Shop. Anna raised her eyes to check for her friend’s presence and seeing as she wasn’t there, continued with her plan. She registered on the chat room herself and searched for M.A. Warrior, leaving him a message that this book could be found at the shop. She closed the site and leant back on the chair, looking treacherous.
Waiting… Anticipating… So close…
CHAPTER XVII
The book shop was empty when the lady came in. She looked through the shelves at the many tittles and at long last picked one up for further reading, unaware she was being watched. She walked to the far end of the shop and sat on one of the sofas, to comfortably enjoy her reading.
- Anna? -, a voice sounded from in front of her.
The lady lifted her head upon recognition of her name, but was unable to recognize the person standing in front of her.
- Excuse me, do I know you?
- You told me you would never forget.
- I’m sorry, did we meet as kids?
- It was a very long time, but we were not children. -, Anna looked confused. – I am the reason you have that scar on your hand.
Anna turned her palm up to reveal a scar. The woman revealed a similar one.
- I’ve had this scar ever since I fell off my bike, when I was a kid.
Anna’s hand was joined with the woman’s hand. Soon Anna’s eyes began to move from side to side as if she focused on a fast moving train. What she saw was longer the book shop but her lives live before. She could see her friend from before and all of her journey after her death. She could see the visits to her dreams her friend had made. It was over. Anna was panting but smiling.
- Blood sisters for ever. -, she said leaping from her seat to hug Haldora. – I can’t belive you are really here.
- You seem to forget I cannot die. -, Haldora whispered.
- I can remember. My head feels like it’s going to explode, but I remember.
- Come!
Haldora led Anna to a door, on a side walk of the book shop. They took the stairs towards the loft. Anna walked in and was surprised to see Haldora’s home. To one side there stood large French windows that gave out to a beautiful green garden that sweetened the air. To the other side an open plan home. There was a great fireplace and next to it an incredible small kitchen. In the middle of the room a four post bed, covered in crimson heavy fabric. On one of the walls was a book case with some fairly used books. The rest of the walls was covered in what seemed like frescos.
- This is where you live?
- Yes.
- I love what you’ve done with the place, it’s so … gloomy!
Haldora laughed and led her towards the old sofa in front of the fire. Anna sat down as Haldora put the kettle on the fire for tea.
- This is just like the first time we met. You have to tell me everything that happened to you. How long have you been here?
- I have been here in this loft for a while. But I’ve only come out publicly a couple of years ago, ever since I’ve opened the Book Store. -, Haldora explained as she sat.
- How did you open this place?
- Well… What do you know about the Kilpatrick family?
- They were patrons of the arts for generations. From what I know the last remaining Kilpatricks died in the II World War while taking their book collection to an underground hideout. After the war their daughter resurfaced the collection and founded the Kilpatrick Foundation. They help fight illiteracy and keep being patrons of the arts. -, Haldora was amazed at her knowledge. – I, myself, have applied for one of their scholarships.
- I see. The Kilpatrick’s never had a daughter. - , Haldora revealed.
Anna looked surprised but at the same time she understood.
- You kept their collection. You kept the past.
- Yes. That is something I can take, right?
- Won’t this Foundation and the book store reveal who you are? -, Anna asked concerned.
- I’ve learn how to doge that bullet. It is easier now to fool people. -, Haldora explained grinning.
- But what happened to you ever since I left you? Tell me all. Where did you and where did you live?
- Why don’t I show you instead?
Haldora stood up and raised her hands, as her mentor had done before, she provoked a thick mist to raise from the kettle. From this mist Anna saw Haldora’s lives since her own departure. Anna saw her trip through the England and her stay at the nunnery; her return to the Underworld after nearly burning; her exile on the island after working for the Pope; her stay in timeless limbo and her conversation with Morrigan. Anna then saw Haldora living within the rubble of a destroyed city. Hiding artifacts as well as helping people reconstruct their houses. At last Anna saw her friend pretending to be the Kilpatrick’s daughter, opening the foundation and opening her bookshop. “Hal’s Books”. The mist cleared and Anna was amazed at all the experiences Haldora had been through.
- Why didn’t you ever come find me?
- I did! I came to you in your dreams. I saw you grow through the years. Our mentor? He ascended. He is sitting with the Goddess. -, Haldora explained.
- The Goddess! You spoke to her, she came to you. That’s why you pretended to be the Kilpatrick’s daughter. You still practice it.
- Yes. I could I not.
Anna smiled at her friend.
- You are the friend I always missed and always knew I had. -, Anna stated.
- As well, my dear. But tell me about you! -, Haldora asked as she poured tea into a cup for Anna.
- Well… I’m soon to be evicted and I am just looking for a job. I just finished art school. I came in to check the art books. Lord knows I can’t afford them but seeing you don’t mind having people reading, I thought… -, Anna explained.
- You thought well. You came to the right place. I’m desperately in need of an assistant.
- You do know. If I remember correctly, you don’t sleep; you don’t get tired how can you need an assistant? -, Anna inquired.
- I do! I need some one for when I have to leave. Someone I can trust will continue this shop as I wanted to it to be. -, Haldora explained, - I trust you. If the gods brought you to me, I can’t let you go.
Anna smiled after taking a sip of her tea. She nodded in acceptance. Haldora smiled back. They joined their sacred hands giggling.
- Why don’t I order you a pizza and we can stay up all night talking of the old days. I want to hear everything about you.
- Do you think it’s wise to stay up all night before my first day at a new job?
- It’s ok when you’re with the boss.
The two women spoke the entire night of experiences past. Haldora explained the changes she had gone through. Anna marveled at what her own lives had been. They compared experiences and rekindled their friendship. Anna understood through the course of the evening that Haldora never spoke of her warrior. Anna did not see any experience with him and she found it to be strange, as a matter of respect she did not directly inquired Haldora on the subject, though her doubts were pounding in her head.
Laughter… Emotions… Remembrances… Smiles…
- Anna? -, a voice sounded from in front of her.
The lady lifted her head upon recognition of her name, but was unable to recognize the person standing in front of her.
- Excuse me, do I know you?
- You told me you would never forget.
- I’m sorry, did we meet as kids?
- It was a very long time, but we were not children. -, Anna looked confused. – I am the reason you have that scar on your hand.
Anna turned her palm up to reveal a scar. The woman revealed a similar one.
- I’ve had this scar ever since I fell off my bike, when I was a kid.
Anna’s hand was joined with the woman’s hand. Soon Anna’s eyes began to move from side to side as if she focused on a fast moving train. What she saw was longer the book shop but her lives live before. She could see her friend from before and all of her journey after her death. She could see the visits to her dreams her friend had made. It was over. Anna was panting but smiling.
- Blood sisters for ever. -, she said leaping from her seat to hug Haldora. – I can’t belive you are really here.
- You seem to forget I cannot die. -, Haldora whispered.
- I can remember. My head feels like it’s going to explode, but I remember.
- Come!
Haldora led Anna to a door, on a side walk of the book shop. They took the stairs towards the loft. Anna walked in and was surprised to see Haldora’s home. To one side there stood large French windows that gave out to a beautiful green garden that sweetened the air. To the other side an open plan home. There was a great fireplace and next to it an incredible small kitchen. In the middle of the room a four post bed, covered in crimson heavy fabric. On one of the walls was a book case with some fairly used books. The rest of the walls was covered in what seemed like frescos.
- This is where you live?
- Yes.
- I love what you’ve done with the place, it’s so … gloomy!
Haldora laughed and led her towards the old sofa in front of the fire. Anna sat down as Haldora put the kettle on the fire for tea.
- This is just like the first time we met. You have to tell me everything that happened to you. How long have you been here?
- I have been here in this loft for a while. But I’ve only come out publicly a couple of years ago, ever since I’ve opened the Book Store. -, Haldora explained as she sat.
- How did you open this place?
- Well… What do you know about the Kilpatrick family?
- They were patrons of the arts for generations. From what I know the last remaining Kilpatricks died in the II World War while taking their book collection to an underground hideout. After the war their daughter resurfaced the collection and founded the Kilpatrick Foundation. They help fight illiteracy and keep being patrons of the arts. -, Haldora was amazed at her knowledge. – I, myself, have applied for one of their scholarships.
- I see. The Kilpatrick’s never had a daughter. - , Haldora revealed.
Anna looked surprised but at the same time she understood.
- You kept their collection. You kept the past.
- Yes. That is something I can take, right?
- Won’t this Foundation and the book store reveal who you are? -, Anna asked concerned.
- I’ve learn how to doge that bullet. It is easier now to fool people. -, Haldora explained grinning.
- But what happened to you ever since I left you? Tell me all. Where did you and where did you live?
- Why don’t I show you instead?
Haldora stood up and raised her hands, as her mentor had done before, she provoked a thick mist to raise from the kettle. From this mist Anna saw Haldora’s lives since her own departure. Anna saw her trip through the England and her stay at the nunnery; her return to the Underworld after nearly burning; her exile on the island after working for the Pope; her stay in timeless limbo and her conversation with Morrigan. Anna then saw Haldora living within the rubble of a destroyed city. Hiding artifacts as well as helping people reconstruct their houses. At last Anna saw her friend pretending to be the Kilpatrick’s daughter, opening the foundation and opening her bookshop. “Hal’s Books”. The mist cleared and Anna was amazed at all the experiences Haldora had been through.
- Why didn’t you ever come find me?
- I did! I came to you in your dreams. I saw you grow through the years. Our mentor? He ascended. He is sitting with the Goddess. -, Haldora explained.
- The Goddess! You spoke to her, she came to you. That’s why you pretended to be the Kilpatrick’s daughter. You still practice it.
- Yes. I could I not.
Anna smiled at her friend.
- You are the friend I always missed and always knew I had. -, Anna stated.
- As well, my dear. But tell me about you! -, Haldora asked as she poured tea into a cup for Anna.
- Well… I’m soon to be evicted and I am just looking for a job. I just finished art school. I came in to check the art books. Lord knows I can’t afford them but seeing you don’t mind having people reading, I thought… -, Anna explained.
- You thought well. You came to the right place. I’m desperately in need of an assistant.
- You do know. If I remember correctly, you don’t sleep; you don’t get tired how can you need an assistant? -, Anna inquired.
- I do! I need some one for when I have to leave. Someone I can trust will continue this shop as I wanted to it to be. -, Haldora explained, - I trust you. If the gods brought you to me, I can’t let you go.
Anna smiled after taking a sip of her tea. She nodded in acceptance. Haldora smiled back. They joined their sacred hands giggling.
- Why don’t I order you a pizza and we can stay up all night talking of the old days. I want to hear everything about you.
- Do you think it’s wise to stay up all night before my first day at a new job?
- It’s ok when you’re with the boss.
The two women spoke the entire night of experiences past. Haldora explained the changes she had gone through. Anna marveled at what her own lives had been. They compared experiences and rekindled their friendship. Anna understood through the course of the evening that Haldora never spoke of her warrior. Anna did not see any experience with him and she found it to be strange, as a matter of respect she did not directly inquired Haldora on the subject, though her doubts were pounding in her head.
Laughter… Emotions… Remembrances… Smiles…
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