Shadows of Light: The Darkness With in 2nd Edition

By L.M. Hannah

$1 FROM EVERY SALES GOES TO BENEFIT THE FIGHT AGAINST ENDOMETROISIS!
Shadows of Light: The Darkness Within, is the second Novel By L.M. Hannah. This dark romance takes the reader into the fictionalized world of the Druid religion, and the darker side of Christianity. Can good triumph over evil only time will tell?Dr. Wynn B. Blakely had a tragic past, that few people would have survived intact. He was wrongfully accused of the satanic ritual serial killings in Cleveland Ohio. The case was dismissed because the DNA evidence had proven it was not Wynn, but a close male relative. After the trial Wynn goes on to obtain his doctorate in Religious Anthropology, and is hired by Blackthorn College in central Ohio. She had been a student in the first class Wynn Blakely had ever taught, he walked into the classroom, and their eyes met from across the room. He was too ethical, and she was too shy to follow up on their mutual attraction. Young Zoe goes on to a disastrously abusive marriage, that ends in a car accident that left her disfigured and her husband dead. The doctors discover that she is pregnant with her dead husband’s child. During the pregnancy Zoe works on recovering and finishes her Doctorate. As the fates would have it there was an opening at Blackthorn College to teach anthropology, shortly thereafter, she interviews for a professorship at the school where she is reunited with her true love. Through tragedy and triumph their love blossoms, only to make a horrible discovery on their wedding day. Through the terror they struggle to hold on to their love and their family, will they triumph or will the world see the birth of the Dark Prince. Only love, faith, and sacrifice will save us all from their dark secret. My name is L.M. Hannah I come from a long line of strong women. I believe women can be strong leaders, mothers, and wives without sacrificing her femininity in whatever roles they choose in life. My characters reflect that belief, I may write a damsel in distress, but you better believe that woman can get herself out of whatever I throw in her direction. In this novel you will meet two very tragic heroes and fall in love with them as they fall in love with each other. I hope you enjoy reading this novel as much as I enjoyed writing it.

• Language: English
• Publisher: L.M. Hannah
• Release date: Dec 24, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310039751

L.M. Hannah

To paint me it would take an artist's imagination. I am as complex as a stormy sky and simple as a quill pen. I can be as every changing as the stream that flows swiftly over your hand or as still as the sleeping rose below the snow. I am a Writer!My name is L.M. Hannah, for most of my life I have lived and loved in Cleveland Ohio. I come from a long line of storytellers. My father was a truck driver, and they can tell some of the best stories, though one can never be sure if the stories are true or not. My mother’s people are Romani more commonly known as the Gypsies. Her people have crafted stories for over a millennia. I was bound to be an author.I was about 14, when they thought they figured out why I was failing in math and English. They thought I was a slow learner, so into slower classes I went. I was much more advanced than those I was in class with. In reality I am Dyslexic/Dyscalculus which means simply that I learn different and I am horrible with written grammar. Yet, I love to write. I was told by my 8th grade English teacher to give up writing and have babies it was my only salvation, I was 13. He then took one of my poems and published it in a poetry book under his daughter’s name.I dropped out of high school in 10th grade. I struggled and I could not hold a job, and at 22 I gave birth to my salvation, my daughter. If it was not for her I would not be alive. For the next 6 years I put my life in order and started on the road to adulthood. I took my GED, and then went to community college; I had to drop out before I had my degree. I was working full time in a job I hated but I was becoming an adult. I have gone on to finish my Associates Degree and I am now working on my Bachelors in anthropology at almost fifty.In 1999 I published a poem on a poetry site and I received a special accolade for that particular poem. I had to stifled my muse by 2002 buried it deep inside me. I had to live in the real world and poets do not make money. In 2010 I was unemployed and began to write again, the story was fairly simple and had lots of plot twists and even more typo’s and grammar goofs than I had imagined, but the story was good. I had friends and family editing my book, I suppose they got some of it right. So I published it on an indie book site. Well over the two years I started writing again.This time, I have a book with strong characters, a good plot, and better than that fairly good grammar. I found a process that works for me. I cannot read my mistakes but boy can I hear them, painstakingly I listened to my book sentence by sentence and made the corrections. Corrections my proof readers did not find nor did my beta readers. I am proud to say that without a copy editor I have managed to get the book presentable and out for sale.I hope you enjoy reading my new release The Shadows of Light: The Darkness Within. Thank you for reading my bio.

Book preview

Doctor Zoe Winters sat in a large leather chair outside the dean’s office as she waited for her interview for an adjunct professorship position at Blackthorn College. The school was a private college that held Ivy League standards, yet was affordable to the middle class. It also served 5000 students and mostly housed on campus, which included educators, and staff. A small town had grown up around the school to help support it, but as a whole, the college was the town.

As she waited nervously for the scheduled meeting her mind began to wander into dark places, namely, the car accident about eight months ago, that claimed her husband’s life and nearly killed her and her unborn daughter. When she came out of the coma, the accident had left her with no memories of the actual events. The police were sure that the accident in fact, was a hit on her husband. They also told her that her husband was under investigation for his part in an organized crime ring. He was under investigation for trafficking in antiquities and fencing stolen goods. This had come as a surprise to her, especially when she discovered that he had used her academic contacts.

At present, she waited nervously for them to call her into the office for her interview. This job would give her both housing and the ability to care for her newborn daughter Alyssa. She had so much riding on the interview. She tried to quell her nerves but her nerves were winning. Zoe had heard many good things about the school. She also knew she was up to their standards. Nevertheless, there was a shadow of doubt that nagged at her. Maybe it was because she knew she was meeting with the department head, Dr. Wynn Blakely, as well as the college dean.

She had followed his exploits from the time when he was on trial as a serial killer. She in fact knew one of the girls he allegedly killed. When she saw his face in the papers, she recognized him as one of the teaching assistants who taught her survey of anthropology class. She thought he was brilliant at that time, and when the news broke, one thought had occurred to her. If he were a serial killer, the police would never have arrested him. She thought it was a shame how the press and the criminal justice system had treated his case. The college had gone one-step further after his termination they stripped him of all accolades. She herself had worked on the committee to restore them.

At this time, after all these years she was finally going to meet him again. She had serious doubts he would remember her. She truly wondered if his voice had changed. She remembered his voice more than his face with the exception of his eyes. His voice could be monotone at times especially, when he was being contrary or ironic. That voice was gravelly, and he always spoke just above a loud whisper, he had a way to make you see his point even if you did not always agree with it. A smile bowed her lips as she thought about his voice. She wondered if he would remember her, or if he did, would he even look in her direction with her scarred face and body.

Zoe watched the secretary make her approach. She was a thin woman who carried herself in a stately manner. Her blond hair had just started to gray at the temples, though she had blended it in nicely. She was dressed in a nice soft blue suit that matched her eyes. Ms. Winters, Dr. Rogers, and Dr. Blakely will see you now. She said as she approached. Zoe smiled and gathered two briefcases and followed the woman closely. She led her into an office with the name plaque, Dr. David E Rogers Dean of Education, She opened the door and motioned for Zoe to enter. Ms. Winters, to see you Dr. Rogers, she said as Zoe stepped in the door. Zoe wanted to correct the sectary but it would look bad. She had the official title of doctor for about four months now.

The office was exactly as Zoe had imagined it. Lighter furnishings highlighted the dark paneling and carpeting, overall, it was an attractive space. The older man who stood behind the desk she assumed was Dr. Rogers, was dressed in a tweed suit. He had a warm friendly round face with a brilliant smile that lit up his blue eyes. He had combed his brown and silver hair over a bald spot. Generally, the face matched the voice when he had called her personally for the interview.

The second man turned slowly and Zoe’s heart skipped a beat. Dr. Blakely looked exactly as she remembered him. His silky long black hair pulled back into a ponytail and those dark eyes she thought they perhaps were midnight blue or possibly dark brown it depended on the light in the room as she recalled. He was not a handsome man by any means, he had sternness about him, and it showed in his face. His nose was prominent only softened by his full lips and high cheekbones. He bordered between being semi-attractive and ugly she could not quite tell. Their eyes locked and he looked into her soul as he did so many years ago. Her heart began to race. It was like a thundering herd of horse as it beat against her chest. Her only hope was that no one heard it. She only broke the gaze and looked away when Dr. Rogers spoke and then she plastered a polite smile on her face.

Ah, Dr. Winters, come in, come in, Rogers said in a warm voice. Please, join us we were just discussing you. Zoe smiled easily it was her nature to do so.

She stepped forward, set her briefcases down and extended her hand to Dr. Rogers. Good afternoon. I am Dr. Zoe Winters, she had kept her married name after her husband had passed away. It would be easier for Alyssa’s records. Rogers took her hand and shook it gently.

Zoe winced, as her handshake was far too firm. I would like to introduce you to Dr. Wynn Blakely he is the head of anthropology and you will report directly to him.

Zoe released his hand and turned to face Dr. Blakely with her hand extended. Dr. Blakely, I have read your papers on ethical religious practices. I am glad to see we share similar views.

Wynn took her hand, and she shook his hand just as firmly as she had with Rogers. No need to butter me up, he said in that monotone voice. You have the job, this is a formality, He seemed bored or possibly the decision was not his to make.

I did not mean to offend sir, the sentiments I expressed were genuine, she offered him a smile as she withdrew her hand from his.

He examined this woman closely. He could see the jagged scar she tried to cover with her long thick brown hair. It dipped down over the high point of her cheek and down her neck. He offered her a cold smile as he watched her reaction to him. He was used to women, especially beautiful women, as they would shrink away from him. She however did not pull away she stood her ground. Those brown eyes held so much intelligence and they shined as she smiled. Her small nose had a bit of bend in it. He realized she was in a horrible accident not long ago. The scars were healing and not fully healed. She had another smaller scar on the right corner of her lips it looked as if her lips had been bisected, that scar continued down her face to the opposite side of her chin. At least we will start on some even ground, his voice was cool and he looked at her, his eyes narrowed as he studied her closely. He knew her, though he was not quite sure from where.

She did not flinch under his gaze even when he narrowed his eyes. The fact that he studied her made her smile more. She could not help it. Good I looked forward to working with you for a long time sir, Her gaze held his.

He frowned and looked down that severe nose. I am not that old, he muttered nearly under his breath.

They had almost forgotten Dr. Rogers was in the room. Dr. Winters, why don’t you have a seat so we can go over your portfolio and class load. As Dr. Blakely announce you have the job. He chuckled as they both turn to look at him. Seems they had forgotten he was even in the room.

She quickly took her seat and the men sat as well. Rogers sat behind his desk and Blakely on the side of his desk so faced her. She crossed her legs and then Wynn could see that she carried a long jagged scar down her right leg as well. The more he looked at those scars the more curious he became about how she survived with these horrible scars.

She took out two portfolios, handed one to each of the men, and waited while they examined them. Wynn spoke first. I see you went to Cleveland State for your entire college career. Your maiden name was it Grant? Curiosity filled his voice as he watched Zoe nod her head. If I am not mistaken, I taught your survey of anthropology class.

Zoe again acknowledged the statement with a head nod as she composed her thoughts. It was actually that class that spurred my interest in our field. I was most impressed with you as a teacher. As I said earlier I have been looking forward to working with you for a long time. She watched as smile threatened to bow his lips. He was quite pleased with her comment.

You flatter me Doctor, there was a warmer tone in his voice as he appraised this woman. He touched his pocket, that is where he carried her words all of these years. He had never forgotten that day when she wrote him, and how it changed his life.

There is no flattery intended, she smiled at him and bit her lip nervously. It is indeed true. I was going into social work and had to change my major.

Rogers looked over her portfolio and smiled. Dr. Winters, I wanted to go over why our school was founded. It could conflict with any personal religious beliefs you may hold. She looked into his eyes, and they had grown very serious. Though now, we are open to all beliefs our school was founded in 1920 by Druid teachers that felt the need to have their own religion honored. Today many of our professors are Druids. Does that bother you? He asked her seriously.

His comment surprised her just a little. Nowhere in the official description of the school was this information listed. No sir, it actually intrigues’ me. I have studied some aspects of the early religion and it fascinates me. However, wasn’t druidism recently reintroduced in the late 1900’s? He again nodded.

Our order the American Restoration Order of Druids indeed founded in 1888. He watched her reaction. She kept a professional pleasant face but there was curiosity behind those eyes and that was a good thing. Does that bother you?

Zoe laughed with good humor in her voice. No not in the least, just means more holidays,

Blakely actually chuckled as he spoke, I doubt that, but at least that is the spirit,

Rogers seemed surprised that Blakely had laughed, Yes that is the spirit Doctor, He seemed to relax in his chair just a bit now the religion discussion was over. School starts September 8th this year, when can we expect you and your husband to take your residency with us.

No sooner had he said that, than a dark shadow crept across her face. She swallowed hard it was something she would never get used to. I am sorry Dr. Rogers. My husband was killed in a car accident 8 months ago. Yes, it was sad that he was dead, although she was not sad that she was out of the marriage.

Rogers frowned, I am so sorry to hear that Dr. Winters. There was a genuine sympathy in his voice.

She looked up and nodded, I am still getting used to being a widow. Nevertheless, I would like to take possession of the house as soon as possible, the sale closes on my home in Cleveland, August 20th, and I will need a place to stay. She told him.

Wynn looked at her face and knew instinctively she was not as remorseful about her husband’s death as she had let on. What is your secret Zoe Grant? He mused silently to himself. Eventually he knew he would know what she was hiding. He looked at Rogers and back to the woman. Well, I will be in the city for two weeks in August, if Dr. Winters would allow, I could aid her with some of the arrangements, he told the pair. If she said yes that would give him time to know her a little bit better.

Sudden recognition rose in Rogers as he nodded. Yes you are doing that workshop in Cleveland. I had nearly forgotten.

Zoe looked pleasantly surprised, It seems I am also teaching part of the workshop as well. It will be nice to work with you Dr. Blakely and if you do not have reservations, I do have a modest guest suite that you could use during your stay. Her voice rang with excitement she looked forward to getting to know him better and did not bother to hide it.

I would not wish to put you out, he said to her, his voice softened.

It would not put me out in the least. Is there anything that you will need during your stay? She asked quietly.

No I require nothing special, he was in fact, intrigued by her offer, and he accepted the offer. He hated staying in hotels. I look forward to getting to know you better and I think this would afford me that chance.

The plans were set in place and Blakely would arrive at her house on August 1 and stay with her until the end of the conference on the 15th. He would aid her in whatever ways he could. He would also learn her secrets in that time. This small fragile creature intrigued him. There was so much mystery behind those large brown eyes and he would solve as many as he could while they spent time together.

Chapter Two

Wynn started the afternoon with the three-hour drive to Cleveland. Fortunately, his air conditioner had decided to work that day. It seemed at times to him it had a mind of its own. The Ohio vistas were beautiful with their rolling hills and open fields. He smiled to himself, Ohio had a vast amount of beautiful country. That is partially why he picked Blackthorn. The fact that the school was a Druid center was a definite bonus. His religious beliefs had in fact saved his life. At sixteen years old, he could have turned out very bad.

Most people would not fault Wynn if he had turned out bad. His mother gave him up when he was born as a product of a rape. One of the nurses in the hospital named him. It was an unusual name, but he liked it. He had learned the entomology of his name, and it suited him well. Wynn was Gaelic for white. Bran meant raven and Blakely meant a dark man from the grove or meadow, His name seemed to be a contrast of terms yet he had pale almost white skin and black hair. Partially, his appearance and odd manner nearly got him sent to Ohio’s electric chair.

Many people had mistaken his quiet manner for disinterest when they questioned him about the serial murders in Cleveland. Every time he looked into the mirror, he understood why they thought he was guilty. Though his appearance had softened over the years, he was still a frightening looking man. It did not help his case that when he spoke his tone was cool and barely audible. It was something that he could not help. One can only tell a child to shut up so many times before they do. He did not speak from the time he was six years old until he was nine. When he began to speak again, he never raised his voice above a whisper.

He grew up in the foster system and learned it had some advantages. He had befriended several of his social workers, many of times they had come to his rescue when he got into trouble. At fifteen, one of his foster mothers had discovered a copy of the Satanic Bible in his room. That was his last foster home. His social worker placed him in a group home. There he seemed to flourish. He became involved with the other boys, he would help them when he could, though, sometimes his help would get him in trouble. Nevertheless, he enjoyed the structure of that type of life. He quickly found he liked the responsibilities and when he misbehaved, he took responsibility for his actions.

At sixteen, his social worker wanted to introduce him to a friend visiting from Ireland. She had told him about the odd young man who was under her care. Avery Dennis wanted to engage the boy and see if he had the makings of a Druid. Avery took an instant like to him. Wynn also saw in him a father figure that he never had. Within a year Avery discovered not only, was he extremely intelligent, he also possessed several gifts.

For the first time in his life, he told someone about the spirits that would come to him. In his silent years, he never lacked for conversation, though he did not speak orally. He would talk to both children and adults who had died. To him it seemed as natural as speaking to the living. Maybe that is why a friend in high school had tried to get him in to satanic worship. It seemed to make sense to him now. Avery had taken time with him and taught how to control his abilities. He also learned how to shield himself against attacks that the spirits could launch. Unfortunately, Wynn drew many dark spirits to himself. He did not purposely set out to draw dark spirits it just happened.

Avery had given Wynn books and helped him to study for his initiation into the religion. He spent weeks with Avery as began to learn the rituals. That was when they discovered the demonic oppression. His teacher thought the demon attachment came from his expedition into the black arts. Avery had called the order together for an exorcism. The ritual had taken nearly two weeks to complete. Wynn had found himself near death on more than one occasion during that period. On the surface, the exorcism appeared to be a success but Wynn could not tell them that he still wrestled with dark thoughts and ideas.

After the rite of exorcism, Wynn had joined the order. It was a proud day for him. He had never completed anything before in his short life now he was a full fledge ovate at sixteen and a half. It gave him a sense of completion and edification that he had never known before. He liked how that made him feel and he continued to build on it.

It was shortly after his initiation when Avery was getting ready to go back to Ireland. He had come to visit Wynn. The pair sat a picnic table at the back of the building. They were having a serious discussion about the direction Wynn had decided to go within the religion. Wynn noticed two a vicious fight that had erupted between two of the younger boy. He saw the glint of a knife in the sunshine and heard a scream. He was up and running before he could think, Avery followed him as he moved to the scene.

Ryan Riggins, his roommate, was lying in a pool of blood. Wynn bent down and looked at the wound. He knew Ryan was bleeding so badly if he did not staunch the flow of blood his roommate would be dead before the ambulance arrived. He felt something move within his being as he put pressure on the wound. Energy began to flow around him. Avery looked down and explained to his young student what he was a healer. Avery explained that if he released the energy into the wound he could slow the bleeding. Wynn focused on the energy as he let small amounts slip into Ryan’s body, soon the blood stop its flow though the boy had a gaping wound in his side.

After saving Ryan’s life, he had met his father several times. The man took an interest in his life. He taught Wynn to play chess. Many a Saturday, Lyle Riggins would spend time at the group home, he would coach the boys how to play the game. After Ryan had received his probation, they would come for Saturday visits and check up on Wynn. The one regret Wynn had how he left the group home as he did. He did not get to say his goodbyes to the father and son.

Wynn decided to stay in the city and go to Cleveland State University. He to the maximum amount of credit eighteen hours a semester and wanted to take more, but they would not let him. He was eager to learn, and he devoured the information. He would often spend the entire night in his dorm room with his studies. He was a sponge he absorbed in everything he learned. He was graduated Magnum Cum Laude.

After graduation, he took two years off trying to get a job in the real world. He had to work three jobs just to get by. At that time he decided to go back to school for his doctorate. Shortly after going back to school, he started his first teaching experience as a teacher’s assistant and taught one and two hundred level classes. It was in one of his first he met Zoe Grant. She was a beautiful girl who was painfully shy, yet when one engaged her in class, she had a bright sunny personality. There was something almost sad about her at times. He wondered if that is what attracted him to her in the first place. He speculated if she knew that she saved his life.

That single sheet of paper so thoughtfully written so long ago had helped him through the dark days after the trial. He had often taken it out and looked at it when he was depressed or needed encouragement. He would finally get to repay the kindness she had shown him so long ago. He had wanted to thank her that day in the office, but this was personal and private. He wondered if she still cared about him. Only time would tell.

As he slowly came out of his revelry, the countryside was starting to change. He could smell the city air as it filtered into his car. The pollution of the city always gave his asthma fits. He had made sure to have his inhalers close to him in the car and his briefcase. The closer he got to the city the more nervous he became. He had mixed emotions about the trip, both dread and excitement. He would get to meet with Dr. Winters again on her turf. He had hopes that she would be more at ease and open herself to him. The woman had never left his mind from the day of the meeting. He was also encouraged that they would be teaching at the workshop. He wanted to hear her teach. Yet being back in the city brought back so many bad memories.

Soon the open road gave way to traffic jams and congestion. His air conditioning began to sputter out as it choked on the exhaust from other vehicles. He also started to have breathing issues. His one hope is that Dr. Winters house was air-conditioned. He sat on I-71 just outside the city for nearly twenty minutes, the traffic had stalled in both directions. As he remembered, one of two things always caused traffic jams in the city, either a car accident or construction.

Oh, he hated the city of Cleveland. It was not the city’s fault it just held so many bad memories. He looked out at the sea of cars around him as their exhausts added to the already polluted air. He wondered what people would think if they knew, he was sitting there. He chuckled to himself maybe he should let go. After all, he was going to meet with a woman he had once fallen in love with. This may in fact be a great adventure.

He paused for a minute and thought about his line of thought logically. He laughed at himself as he shook his head. What was this new sensation, it was foreign to him? He looked into his rearview mirror and raised an eyebrow his eyes were shining. He shook his head and laughed at himself. He was actually hopeful, the last time he felt that emotion was the day he took a bus down to Blackthorn. His car dashed that feeling as soon as it started. A loud sputtering sound came from under the hood the air conditioning unit was dying.

Finally, the AC gave out on his car, and he had no choice but to open a window. The heat hit him like a ton of bricks. Another ten minutes passed and the line of cars slowly began to move forward. It took another half an hour to creep from the airport to his exit on 44th street. By the time, he reached Franklin Avenue he was soaked through with sweat. He had hoped to make a good first impression but now he was ruined.

He located the house and was amazed at the sheer size of it. She had not told him it was a restored Victorian. Oddly, he felt right at home when he saw it. Carefully he pulled into the drive per instructed and parked in the open bay. After he got out of his car, he stood still there for a moment and frowned, You are going to the junk yard once we are home. How many times before had he threatened that car? He had lost count. He looked over at Dr. Winters’ minivan and wondered if the air conditioning worked in her van. He shook his head, took out his suitcase, his suit bags, and a large briefcase, and headed toward the house. He paused a moment as he hiked up the small hill from the garage to the house. Over the din of the city noise, he heard the hum of an air conditioner. He had never been so glad to hear that sound in his life.

He made his way to the front door and knocked softly he could hear someone coming to the door. A woman just past middle age answered. He had assumed that she was Dr. Winter’s mother. The woman was dressed in a pair of slacks and a blouse she was also wearing an apron. In her prime, she was attractive, and still seemed to be. She wore her gray hair up in a bun. Some locks fell free and curled softly around her face. You must be Dr. Blakely, she said opening the door for him.

Indeed I am, he bowed his head slightly to the woman.

Dr. Winters was expecting you nearly an hour ago. We heard there was a bad accident on the highway. She smiled letting him into the house.

The cool air rushed over him, and he sighed in relief. Please excuse my appearance my air conditioning quit working about an hour ago, he gave her a grave smile.

The woman ushered him into the sitting room and bade him to sit while she brought him a cool cloth, and a cold beverage. Before she left, she told him that Dr. Winters would be down momentarily that she just put the baby down. He nodded and sat back on the sofa very carefully. It appeared to be an antique and was not comfortable in the least. The woman had come back with a tall glass of lemonade and a cool cloth. He had never been so grateful in his entire life. After washing his face, he placed the cloth on the back of his neck it sent a chill through his entire body. He heard his host give the woman instructions out in the hall. As it turned out, she was the housekeeper and nanny.

Zoe made her way into the sitting room, she was dressed in a long skirt, and a soft blouse, her hair was in a bun, it was set high on her head. She resembled a woman from the Victorian age minus all the ruffles and lace. She found poor Dr. Blakely looking quite uncomfortable on the antique settee. Fortunately, that piece was among several pieces of furniture that sold with the house. She was glad those pieces sold with the house. She smiled as he rose to greet her. Oh please sit Dr. Blakely, Edna told me you had a harrowing trip. I have asked her to draw you a cool bath so you can relax before dinner.

He noticed something new about her. She was walking with a cane. You, my dear doctor, are an angel, He smiled this time.

She leaned heavily on her cane and looked him over. The poor man was soaked with sweat, and he looked exhausted. Please call me Zoe and let me show you to your quarters so you can rest before supper. Her smile gave her voice a soft lilt that had not been there for their first meeting.

He nodded cordially I will call you Zoe as long as you call me Wynn, it was a fair exchange. The setting was less formal, and she was at ease, he felt the need to be as well. He motioned her to lead on and turned out into the hall and up the grand staircase. He felt guilty for allowing her to lead, but she was the host, and he had no idea how to get from place to place in the house.

As she led, he took mental notes on how to get back downstairs. Before this neighborhood was allowed to decay these houses were millionaire homes. My husband and I restored this one to its previous glory, she said quietly as she led him past the baby’s room.

They passed both her and her housekeepers’ rooms into a dimly lit hall that was much cooler than the rest of the house. That was unusual for an upstairs. She opened the door to a suite with was brightly decorated and had a nice view of the lake. The first room was a large sitting room with a comfortable couch, a desk, and a small dinette set. The room came with a large antique double bed with a heavy embroider canopy done in deep rich burgundy. This was definitely a more masculine room that he had seen. As he set down his luggage and suit bag, she turned down his bed. He opened the door to find his bathroom. The fixtures were all antiques as well as the old style claw-foot bathtub, which was perfect for soaking. He smiled to himself as he could live here with ease if the house were not in the city.

We eat in about 45 minutes and if you are done early feel free to join us, coffee, and beverages will be served before dinner, she sounded more like an innkeeper than a college professor.

He looked up and paused smiling at her again that was twice in one day it was a record for him. Zoe, no need to be so formal, he said softly. I welcome the chance to get to know you in a setting that is more comfortable for you.

I am sorry Wynn, He was surprised when she said his name it sent little spikes of electricity down his back. I am just not used to having company. It was not per... she stopped suddenly. We just never had guests and you are my first. I just want everything to be perfect, she smiled trying to cover up for her earlier mistake.

He pretended not hear the ‘per’ knowing that she was going to say permitted. He already did not like this dead husband. He wondered what other secrets she was hiding. I just welcome the hospitality, and your fellowship. He watched a bit of color slip into her cheeks as she smiled proudly.

Join me in the dining room when you are ready, she said as she closed the door and slipping into the hallway closing the second door behind her.

When the door latched closed, he moved into the bathroom and disrobed. He looked at the oval antique mirror, as he stood naked before it. He was an aging man at present forty-one years old, his body was not as hard, and firm as it once had been. He had sworn off women about six years ago and assured himself that no woman would ever have the likes of him in her bed. A few women even told him so. Nevertheless, he found the attraction to Zoe irresistible. She was delicate and feminine yet there was a quiet strength about her. She was most likely not attracted to him in the least. He sighed and looked down at the junction between his legs and found himself erect just at the simple thought of her. Get serious, he told himself, she would no sooner have me than the man on the moon.

He shook off his desire and slipped into the cool water. That ended his erection and cooled his blood. He stretched out his body and the water covered him to his neck. The simple joy of cooling off drew a sigh from his lips. He slipped his head under the water with his eyes open when he became aware of a man standing over the tub watching him closely. The man was younger than he was maybe in his early thirties he had sandy blond hair and he thought blue or green eyes. Subsequently he realized the man was semi-translucent. It was a spirit an angry one at that.

In the Druid religion, Wynn was a Priest, he was also bless or in some cases cursed with the ability to speak with the dead. He knew at once, who this man was in life. He saw darkness around him in death. The spirit allowed him to know that he had been responsible for taking lives when he was alive. He had either killed them himself or ordered other people to kill for him. As his head broke the water, the image disappeared. In his mind’s eye, he saw the marriage license and as the man placed it in a frame. He looked at his wife and smirked. I own you now. Wynn watched him lay down the rules each rule broken had an unpleasant penalty. He was not sure, if the spirit was showing him these images or if he was just imagining them. He also saw Zoe’s husband, beat her repeatedly and the ghost told him She will never be yours, I will see to it.

Wynn looked over at where he thought the spirit had stood and spoke in a very cool tone, Be gone spirit your fetters no longer bind you to her. She is free of you. You will never harm her again, I will protect her, At this point, he felt the spirit leave the room, but it did not leave the house. He instantly knew that the spirit ties were to the house. In addition, that if he left Zoe alone before she moved she would not survive the wait. At that moment, he understood her rush to leave this property as far behind her as she could.

After Wynn dressed and shaved, he descended the stairs and looked quite his usual self, dressed in a dark shirt and pants. He had carefully dried his long hair allowing it to frame his face. Margaret his closest friend and mother figure had told him it looked better that way. He found his way to the dining room. Where he found Zoe seated enjoying a hot coffee savoring its flavor. She looked up and smiled. The first thing he noticed she had unbound her brown hair and it fell in waves just above her waist he knew she had let it down after she had shown him to his room.

She had a softer look than that day in the office, and she smiled at him warmly. Did you enjoy your bath? She asked him.

I have only one desire when you move, He said to her with a bit of a twinkle in his eye. She looked up at his face cocking her head to the side. I wish to take that bathtub with me. His comment was met was the sound of a feminine laugh.

I agree I will miss those tubs, but that is about all I will miss here, she told him.

Wynn looked at her as he took the seat across from her and cocked his head. You know that statement begs the question what ever do you mean by that?

She gave him a polite smile and drew a breath. If you accompany me on my after dinner walk I may answer that question, she told him quietly as if someone were listening.

He nodded, I will accept that, for the present time he thought.

He decided a change of topic was in order and looked out the window toward the street. You know I lived not far from here, He said watching her from across the table.

The change of topic was a god sent she thought as she beamed at him. Me too, she motioned outside the window I went to Gallagher Junior high and after that John Marshall High school.

Ah, common ground I was a Cowboy myself, He chuckled. When I was at Gallagher Dr. Holbrook was Principal He watched her become animated from across the table.

Get to your classes or you will get detention and scrub the walls after school, she said in a mocking voice.

Wynn wrinkled his nose and nodded. He caught me one time and I had to clean the boy’s washroom on the second floor. It was disgusting. He laughed. I never let him catch me again,

She leaned in just a bit and grinned at him, Ah I see you were one of the bad boys, she teased lightly.

He raised a brow and shook his head. No, one of the bored ones, he told her. The curriculum was so dull even though I was a straight A student, it lent to being bored and getting in trouble.

The idle mind is the devils playground, she retorted.

That is truer than you know, he answered back. I am sure you had the same issues. He knew she was as intelligent as he was.

She shook her head in the negative. I did get bored out of my mind but I was terrified of getting into trouble.

Oh? He probed gently.

Yes my parents were very strict about my school career, she said as Edna brought in dinner and began placing it on the table as they spoke.

Do you come from a religious background? He knew if she had that would explain a few things.

Her eyebrow shot up in a delicate arch as she laughed a little, "Of course the First Church of Budweiser and Sunday Football.

Ah, the King of Beers, he knew the type he had several foster parents that fit her statement. However, they did not push him about his grades or school. Most of his foster parents were just a bit afraid of him.

An amazing amount of food was set on the table before him. A plate piled high with chicken and a bowl of mashed potatoes and gravy with sides of green beans and Cole Slaw. This is a veritable feast, he commented. It was not just the food he was speaking of, either. He found Zoe most captivating.

Edna is a wonderful cook though she is used to cooking for a much larger family. She smiled at the woman who wrinkled her nose at Zoe in good humor.

Wynn looked over at Edna, Will you be joining Dr. Winters at Blackthorn? He engaged the woman.

She happily nodded her head. I am looking forward to being out of the city. Yes,

He nodded thinking Zoe would need as much help as she could get. I think you will like it there. The school is much like a small village we have everything from a grocery to a movie theater on campus. He told her.

Edna nodded as she smiled at him, Dr. Winters, has already told me so much about the school and the community I am very excited about it. I am sure I will be meeting Mrs. Blakely when we arrive? She probed slightly.

Wynn’s brow shot up, and he had a quizzical expression on his face. I am not married, he advised her. Zoe busied herself with the food on her plate as she pretended not to listen to the conversation. Edna cocked her head to one side and frowned just a little.

I am surprised by that. You are a catch to be sure. She told him with a small bit of color rising in her cheeks. He looked across the table at Zoe who seemed uninterested.

Do you offer medical insurance in your payroll? He asked her with a deadpan expression.

Zoe looked over at him and cocked her head Yes of course I do, She retorted as a frown graced her face.

Edna needs to go to the eye doctors she is in need of glasses, he said smirking.

There are many things about a man that makes him a catch other than his looks. Though you are not unattractive, she responded on her way out to the kitchen.

Zoe watched Edna leave the room at that moment she looked across the table at Wynn she smiled warmly at him. I do agree with her. She told him. What she did not tell him is that she found him attractive. She also knew he was brilliant. She had coached Edna to discover if he were married.

Wynn could not believe his ears women had told him he was aesthetically unpleasing, cold, and appeared to stern. If I had an ego left you two would do wonders for it, he chuckled he could not help himself. He filled his plate, he was grateful for both good company and good food.

Dr. Blakely, I am not sure who you have been talking to, but we only speak the truth in this house. As she finished the sentence, a loud crash came from above the dining room. Both Wynn and Zoe jumped with a sudden start. From above they heard Alyssa making her presence known with a shrill cry of a newborn. The next sound was running footsteps as Edna raced up the back stairs to the baby’s room.

Downstairs, Zoe rose, and started toward the kitchen in a rush. She had forgotten her cane she suddenly pitched forward and landed face down on the floor. She whimpered softly as she struggled to get to her feet. As Wynn started to stand, he felt a pressure on his back shoving him forward. Oh Hell No Ghost you’re not going to play these games with me. I will exorcise your ass out of this house. He was angry but instead of yelling, his voice got even lower and more menacing. He shrugged off the presence and went to Zoe he turned her gently and checked her over making sure that there were no serious injuries. How long has this been going on? He asked in a calm voice as he tried to reassure her that everything was all right.

Zoe looked up at the ceiling and was more concerned about the baby. Just since I told Edna we were moving, she confessed. I need to get to the baby. She tried to stand but found her ankle was a bit weak.

If anything was wrong with the baby Edna would be down here already. Now sit there and let me see that ankle. He did not mean to scold her, but he knew what the facts were. He carefully lifted her skirt only high enough to see her foot and calve. He began to rub it slowly as he pushed his healing energy into the ankle. As he slowly healed her, he could see her visibly relax. You, my dear, are no longer alone. You and Edna will not have to face this by yourselves.

She looked at him with a grateful smile on her face, which soon faded. I do not want you to be harmed, she told him.

Wynn looked around the room, and back to her. The woman’s expression touched him. Thank you for your concern, it is most welcome. Yet you have no need to worry about me. I do not ken well to bullies living or dead.

He continued to work the muscles of her foot. As they sat on the floor, Edna emerged with the small whimpering bundle in her arms. He watched her as she for the baby. Is she alright? Wynn asked Edna. He was sure this ghost would not harm his own child. Still he put nothing past this spirit.

Edna nodded a little, Yes, the wee one is fine a bit startled because the large hall mirror fell again.

Zoe looked up from the baby to Edna sighing in aggravation Again? She muttered as she watched Edna nod. This time it stays down and if it continues it is going in the trash! She said looking around the room angrily.

He watched her closely. Her anger was a good sign. It meant she did have strength that she had not tapped as of yet. Again I tell you Zoe you are not alone. I will brook no devil even one you were married to, he told her firmly. Keep that anger it will serve you well for the next three weeks, She rocked the baby until she quieted and passed her over to Edna. She began to struggle to her feet Wynn shook his head no, placed one hand on her back and the other under her knees, and lifted her into her chair. Finish eating and if you’re up to it we will go for that walk, he said quietly.

She smiled at him and nodded. She noted his strength of character and his kind nature this was contrary to what she had heard rumored around the academic world. Allegedly, he was supposed to be the hardest anthropology professor that there was, also many people who had worked with him called him a cold-hearted son of a bitch. All she could see was a gentle kind man. I would like that very much.

Another bang came from the wall as Micah heard her comment. Was he this possessive in life? He asked as he sat back down across from her.

She nodded grimly, Worse even, she sighed. I thought I would get a break after he was killed, but he now haunts me. Her comment rang with anger.

He smiled so easily at her and nodded. As I said earlier you are no longer alone, He took a bite of chicken and swallowed. I am a Druid Priest and a gifted medium so I will stay and help you, he told her. He looked thoughtfully at her and cocked his head to the side. Do you think or know if he will follow you?

She bit her lip as she thought about his question. I have never felt him outside the house. But I really do not know,

He watched her expression grow worried. Well if he does follow you to Blackthorn, it will be the biggest mistake of his life, or his afterlife. He gave a small smirk and a wink.

The dinner conversation flowed like water on a hot summer day. Zoe discovered that one of his foster families lived just two blocks from her home. Wynn had more than an inkling that her husband had abused her and the demure woman she had become was because of that man. He remembered her from that class she had one of those personalities that was bright and sunny but tempered with intelligence and academia. After dinner, they had sipped tea in the living room and prepared for their walk.

Wynn made sure that he had his inhaler in his pocket when the pair exited the large stone Victorian. Once outside he presented her his arm so, she could lean on him just a little if she wanted to. Zoe gladly accepted it. There was almost electricity when they touched and both of them felt it. The air was still thick with humidity but in the distance over the lake, the clouds were a dark cloud was beginning to build. The rain would come soon.

They walked slowly through the depressed neighborhood. Older people sat on their porch or stoops while the children ran here and there playing games. Teenagers congregated around cars or certain houses. Many of the adults sat sipping beer from brown paper bags. Each house had a different type of music streaming out its windows. One house you heard hip-hop and another right next door played country music. Some of the houses had large porches with televisions set up or a radio.

Zoe, if I am being too forward please tell me. He began the conversation.

She took her eyes off the sidewalk and looked at him, and nodded. I will let you know, She told him quietly.

Did you love your husband? He asked bluntly.

She sighed and her hand squeezed his arm a bit, as she stepped off balance. He steadied her. I supposed I did at first. I am not sure if you remember me from school. However, I was unsure of myself and rather shy when it came to men. Micah was Sauvé, handsome and when he started paying me attention I melted, She said as they walked. So yes at first I think I was infatuated with him, possibly overwhelmed is a better term. We were married a year later and that is when the terror of my life began. I nearly did not finish my doctorate because of his demands, Her voice began to trail off as she looked at the gang members, watching them walk down the street. She often walked alone. They had never given her any problems before. She hoped tonight would be no different.

Two of the boys waved at her, and she nodded back to them. Hey, Docs got a boyfriend, one of the girls called over to the couple as she waved. Zoe had tutored several the children in the neighborhood even before the accident. Most of the kids loved to come into the big haunted house and take their lesson from her.

Zoe waved at the young woman and continued walking with Wynn who chuckled a little to himself. He noted that Zoe did not correct the girl, though that had little to do with the situation. They came to a large house with a wraparound porch. An older couple sat on a swing looking out at the street. Zoe smiled politely as she always did for the couple. The woman’s eyes grew as big around as saucers as she spied Wynn. She stood up squinting looking directly at him. At first she started to frown she paused, and a smile came across her face as she recognized him. Wynn Bran Blakely is that you young man, she called from the steps

Indeed it is Mrs. Crawford. Indeed it is, he smiled warmly at the older woman. She had his favorite foster parent when he was fourteen. She had to give him up because he intervened with a beating her husband had given her one night. If it had not been for the beating, he would have loved to stay on with Mrs. Crawford. Social workers tend to frown when they discover one of the children in the hospital for three days.

Get your ugly ass up here boy, and give me a hug, the woman said cheerfully. The comment from the elderly woman caused Zoe to frown in disapproval.

It is alright, it keeps me humble, He whispered to her as he led her up the stairs. Mrs. Crawford was dressed in a worn blue sundress, and she needed a bra badly as her bust line sagged with age. The man sitting next to her was dressed in a blue wife beater tee shirt and blue boxers he grumbled under his breath as the pair approached.

The old woman was in her late sixties and the man appeared to be as well. She held out her arms to him as the thin skin hung down and waved a little in the breeze, Wynn, look at you and you’re with a beautiful woman to boot, she said as Zoe released his arm.

He moved to embrace her and smiled chuckling as he spoke. She is a colleague of mine, he said warmly.

Oh you have colleagues now do you? She teased him lightly.

Come Zoe, Mrs. Crawford does not bite, unless she has her teeth in, he teased the old woman back.

Zoe gave her a pleasant smile as she always had when passing the older people when they were on their porch. Mrs. Crawford this is Dr. Zoe Winters, Zoe heard him tell her.

Good evening Mrs. Crawford, Dr Blakely told me he did not live far from my home as a child. Mrs. Crawford looked at Zoe and next at Wynn. She turned back to the old man and smacked him lightly on the arm. See I told you he was going to be someone, she turned back to the young couple.

So are you two a couple? She asked Wynn.

Wynn shook his head slightly, As I said we are colleagues.

I think that will change shortly. You two have chemistry. Not like her and the other man she was with, She turned her head to the side and looked at Zoe. What ever happened to him, I haven’t seen him since last winter. She asked, not so gently.

My husband was killed in a car accident, she told the older woman.

The old man chimed in loudly. Terry you put your foot in it again, he snickered.

Well I am sorry for your loss, but I am not sorry to see you with my Wynn, she told her firmly. Wynn wanted to crawl under Mr. Crawford’s swing and hide. I should be getting Dr. Grant. He paused it was the only outward sign he was frazzled by the old woman, I mean Dr. Winters home.

Zoe was grateful she did not care for how Mrs. Crawford was so forward with them. Yes I am getting a bit fatigued, she smiled warmly as Wynn gave her his arm.

I shall stop by again before I leave the city, he told the couple as he carefully led Zoe down the stairs aiding her where she would let him.

You’re not back in the city to stay Wynn? She asked as sadness blanketed her face. Wynn shook his head slightly. I live in central Ohio. I am just here for a few weeks doing a workshop at CSU, he helped Zoe down another stair. "But I will make sure I stop