The Mystery Behind the -Town-: Moon-Hollow Falls

By Karen Rule

My passion for writing started when I was young but nothing ever came of it. It was only when I had to give work away from ill health that I started writing again, and at 51, I rediscovered that once dormient passion again and published my first book two years ago.
From there I have written two more books and I am looking forward to writing many more in the years to come. But without the help of Dennis my husband of 34 years I would not have achieved what Ive achieved, his support was and is greatly appreciated.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris AU
• Release date: Nov 27, 2013
• ISBN: 9781493128082

Karen Rule

Karen Rule only started writing in 2011. She writes what she has experienced in her early years at her family home with her mother father and sister. They all shared ghostly encounters, knockings and other strange and sometimes scary apparitions. As she had to give up work for health reasons she decided to put all of those encounters into her first book. She has found it a delight to keep with the same story line and penned three more along the same line.

Book preview

The Mystery behind

the

-Town-

Moon-Hollow Falls

Karen Rule

Other books by the same author:

Do We Really Walk Alone?

New Beginnings—The Unseen?

Copyright © 2013 by Karen Rule.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Rev. date: 11/21/2013

To order additional copies of this book, contact:

Xlibris LLC

1-800-455-039

www.xlibris.com.au

[e-mail]

519970

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

To my Mum,

who has been there for me throughout this journey.

And especially to Dennis who is my number one supporter.

He has been by my side from the very beginning.

For without those two, none of this would have been possible.

There have been many tears, many ups and downs.

For that, I say thank you, darling.

And thank you, Mum.

And to the numerous others.

A special thank you to my

lovely granddaughter

Eliza,

who knows my books better than I.

I love you, darling.

Mud map of Moon-Hollow Falls that was given to Charlie when he started at the Ambulance.

map.jpg

(At the end of this book is the plaque that Charlie had made for Lela.)

Chapter 1

It has been four and a half months since I found out that I was pregnant. Moreover, as Catherine had said, I did not need any blood tests to prove that I was. Anyone could just take one look at me to see that I am with child.

However, it’s not only Charlie and I that have wonderful news; Delilah and Eric have celebrated the arrival of their son Nathaniel, and what a beautiful little boy he is. He has a mop of jet-black hair, which had to be expected as Delilah and Eric both have black hair. The colour of Nathaniel’s eyes are so dark brown they almost look black, the girls are just going to love those eyes later on, he’ll be beating them off with sticks. Alternatively, I should say Delilah would be doing the beating; Eric will probably just say, ‘That’s my boy; he takes after the ole man.’

I can just see Delilah now, laughing until her sides hurt and with tears running down her face.

However, for now, all I can do is only guess as to what that feels like, but one day I will find out. As for now, the only ones I need to beat off are Audrie and Charlie. Don’t get me wrong, I understand where they are coming from; it’s just that it can get a little overcrowded for my liking.

Our little daughter has been moving around for a good month now, and Charlie has been beside himself with excitement that, with every chance he gets, he puts his hand on my stomach to feel her move.

When I would sit in the sitting room on the two-seater lounge for a bit of quiet time, either Charlie or Audrie would spot me, they will call to the other and squeeze in beside me, one on either side, then my alone time would go out right out the window.

Then the pair of them would take it in turns feeling our little girl move to the annoyance of me, not the moving of, the crowding in part. However, I just sucked it up and tried to understand their excitement; I guess they are bonding to Charlotte any way they can. Unlike me with my inbuilt bonding that mother and daughter have.

It was one of those times while Charlie was at work and Audrie and I were the only two home.

Audrie came walking in carrying a cup in hand. ‘Tea?’

‘Yes, thanks, that would be fantastic.’ I leant forward and took the cup from Audrie.

To me Audrie looked as if she was going to take the seat beside me, so I tensed and readied myself for it; however, Audrie chose to sit in one of the single-seater armchairs.

‘I thought I’ve crowded you too much lately, hence me sitting in the single.’

‘And I thank you for that.’

‘You know I can’t believe how these last five months have flown by, it doesn’t seem that long ago when we were sitting here discussing about you being pregnant.’

‘I know, it has gone by real quick. Speaking of babies, did you see how cute little Nathaniel is?’

‘Oh yes, he is going to break a few hearts that one, those dark eyes, that is what the girls will drool over.’

‘I’ll say, there will be two heartbreakers on this street, and there is something else I’ve noticed.’

‘What’s that?’

‘That we haven’t had any spirit visits lately.’

‘You’re right, we haven’t. I don’t know whether to celebrate or to be weary of that.’

‘I know what you mean; the one I do not want to see again is Victoria-Grace’s mother.’

‘I don’t blame you with that one.’

‘Have you had any visits from your resident-in-room spirit?’

‘No, I haven’t, I didn’t give that much thought until you just said that. Are they all on holiday or something?’

‘To tell the truth, it makes for a pleasant change, I’d say.’

‘And I agree, it does, but why? Why would they be so quiet? This reminds me of the calm before a storm, and speaking of turbulent waters, have you had any visits to the past lately?’

‘Well, first off, I don’t know why, or why they are quiet, and secondly, no, I haven’t had any past visits. I would have said something if I did.’

‘Of course you would have, silly me.’

‘Actually it’s quite strange really, but I haven’t had any experiences with that kind of thing since I found out that I’m pregnant.’

‘That is strange. I wonder what’s going on here, everything has been quiet, it’s kind of like the spirit world has been put on hold or something.’

‘Yes, exactly like. Anyway let’s take advantage of it, do you feel like doing some shopping? I know I do. Charlie has kept a close eye on me and I love him for that, but a woman needs her shopping.’

‘Yep, she does, then let’s go.’

‘Great, let me grab my bag and let’s hit the shops.’

‘Rose and Ruth will be shocked to see you, but then again, they might not be, if you catch my drift.’

‘Yes, I do catch it.’

We got up from our comfortable chairs and headed to our rooms to fetch our bags.

‘I’ll meet you at the front door, Lela.’

‘Right-T-Oh.’

I walked into my bedroom and took my bag off the chair that’s sitting in the corner, then walked out and waited for Audrie.

‘OK, I’m ready.’

I opened the front door and we walked out into a beautiful spring morning and headed off down the street.

*    *    *

As we walked, I noticed how lovely everything looked, all colourful, and a wonderful scent filled the air.

‘It’s just lovely out here, you smell that?’

‘All the flowers’ perfumes? Yes, I do, and just look at them, it’s picture-postcard perfect.’

‘Picture-postcard perfect, I like that.’

We came out on the main street and the first thing that struck me was that a hairdresser had opened up across the street down from the Dragons Keep.

‘How long has that been there?’

‘Has what been where?’

‘Over there, look.’ I pointed across the street.

‘Oh, the hairdresser’s, you have me, I don’t know.’

‘Hmm.’

‘What are you thinking, Lela?’

‘I am in need of a haircut, style, and so forth.’

‘You are devious, you know.’

‘Oh, I know, but what better way to find out about her, and you know how hairdressers love to talk. If we befriend her, we just may find out a lot more than us trying to dig for it.’

‘Yes, you’re right, smart. People tend to say too much when they feel at ease with someone.’

‘Exactly.’

‘So how about we look for some lovely material for your little one?’

‘Yes, that sounds good. I can make some curtains and matching sheets and such.’

‘Yes, and if you don’t mind, I’ll just pop into that Take It or Leave It place and I’ll meet you in the haberdashery’s after.’

‘Not at all.’

We crossed the street then went our separate ways. I opened the door and the little bell above me rang out, which made me wince. I don’t know if I will ever get used to these bells forever ringing.

I looked around at all the materials and wondered if one of the sisters were lurking behind any of them. When I couldn’t see either one, I headed up to the counter.

Standing at the counter, I still couldn’t see the sisters; they must be out the back. I wonder why they didn’t come out when they heard the bell, must be going deaf, I’d say, I thought.

‘Hello, is anyone home?’ I felt silly calling out, but I had no choice.

‘Is that my little pixie?’

‘Yes, it is, Ruth.’

‘I’ll be right out. I’m here by myself today, would you like a cup of something while I’m out here, little pixie?’

‘Tea would be lovely, thanks, Ruth.’

‘No problem, I won’t be long.’

‘Take your time, Ruth, I’m in no hurry.’

While Ruth was making the tea, I turned my back to the counter, leaned against it, and ran my eyes over the materials.

It’s the first time I really had a good look at the material the sisters have, and I saw some beautiful material that would make some lovely curtains and sheets for Charlotte.

I spotted one that had faeries sitting by a stream with different coloured faeries perched on rocks and mushrooms with butterflies and dragonflies busily flying around, it was beautiful; I could see that made up into curtains and sheets.

There was also the same material in what looked to be a fleecy kind plus some solid colours; I could get some of that to make as a blanket, yes, that’s what I’ll do.

Just as I finished going over all of this in my head, Ruth came through the curtains. I looked over at her, but she was concentrating hard not to spill the two cups of tea that she was carrying that she hasn’t yet looked at me.

I was curious to know, would she be surprised, or would she know already.

Finally, Ruth reached the counter; she put down the cups then looked at me. Ruth’s eyes grew large with surprise. ‘Little pixie, look at you, you’re with child, how wonderful.’

She shuffled around the counter, came up to me, and wrapped her arms around me. ‘Rose is going to be super surprised but bitterly disappointed that she wasn’t here to see you. When did this happen?’

‘Five months ago.’

‘Has it been that long since we saw you last?’

I tried to recall that when last I saw the sisters. ‘Um, yeah, terrible, I know.’

‘No, of course not, but what brings you here, little pixie?’

‘I need some material so I can sew some sheets and curtains and other things.’

‘Of course you would. We have some lovely materials that would suit either a boy or girl. Come, I’ll show you.’

‘That would be lovely, Ruth, but I’m having a girl and I…’

‘A girl, how wonderful, and you know this already?’

‘Yep.’

‘How? If you don’t mind me asking.’

‘I don’t mind at all, Ruth, you see my spirit guide told me I was going to have a girl, plus I’ve dreamt about her too.’

‘Well, you couldn’t get any better confirmation than that, so I gather you’ve already picked the material you want?’

‘Yes, this one here.’ I walked over to where I saw the material I wanted.

‘Aah, good choice. I will take this back to the counter then, you pick any other that takes your fancy and I will come and get it.’

‘No, no, I’ll grab it, I will be all right.’

‘If you’re sure, I don’t want you straining anything now.’

‘Don’t worry, Ruth, I won’t strain anything.’

‘Right you are.’

Ruth picked up the roll and shuffled back to the counter with it. She looked to be the one who needed help, not me, but I grabbed what else I wanted and went and joined Ruth.

Next, I heard the doorbell ring out. Ah, good Audrie has turned up.

I turned to see Audrie walking towards me; Ruth looked up to see who just came in.

‘Hello, Ruth, how are you today?’

‘Hello, Audrie, can’t complain, and I am fine, thank you.’

‘Isn’t it wonderful about the new addition-to-be, Ruth?’

‘It sure is, and just look at the beautiful material our little pixie has chosen for her little girl’s room.’

‘That is exquisite, Lela, you have a good eye. I am sure she will love it too.’

‘Well, thank you, Audrie.’

‘Would you like a cup of tea, Audrie?’

‘I would love one, Ruth, if it’s not too much trouble.’

‘It’s no trouble at all; I’ll get us a fresh cup while I am at it.’ Ruth picked up our cups and left.

‘Thank you, Ruth,’ I called after her.

She just waved her hand, I guess that meant no problem.

*    *    *

Audrie and I were busy chatting while I showed her all the material that I was going to buy.

We did not hear the doorbell ring, then the next thing we knew, Debby Valentine walked up to the counter.

‘Hello, Lela, hi, Audrie, how are you both going?’

I looked and saw the smile on Debby’s face. Then her eyes dropped to my belly.

‘Oh my, you’re pregnant, congratulations, Lela.’

‘Um, thank you, Debby.’ I was astounded at the kindness Debby showed towards me. She then hugged me, which floored me; I was not used to this from her, not lately anyway.

‘How far?’

‘A little over four and a half months now.’

‘And I see that you’re buying some material.’

‘Yes, I thought I’d make some curtains and sheets.’ I really felt like saying nothing gets past you, but I thought better of it.

‘And it has faeries.’

‘I thought it appropriate for a girl.’

‘You’re having a girl.’

‘Yes.’

‘That’s wonderful.’

I couldn’t get over the change in Debby. I wondered why that is and what has changed to make her this way.

Ruth came back in with a tray, this time holding four cups of what I assumed was tea.

‘Here you go, four teas.’

‘You’re getting good, Ruthie, you didn’t even call out if I wanted a cup, or that I was even here.’

‘There’s nothing in it, Debby, I just heard you talking and thought you’d also like a cup, that’s all.’

‘You’re just being modest, Ruthie; we all know how psychic you are. Isn’t it wonderful about Lela here?’

‘That it is, Debby, that it is.’

‘So, Debby, what have you been up to lately?’

‘Oh, nothing much, Audrie, just the usual, buying stock, selling stock—oh, and speaking of stock, Lela, I’ve just received a shipment of faery lamps, and one of them would suit this material you’re buying. It will look lovely, I’ll bring it over one day, consider it a gift from me to you, a baby shower gift if you will.’

‘You don’t have to do that.’

‘I know, but I want too.’

‘Well then, that will be lovely, thank you, Debby.’

‘My pleasure, is it all right if I bring it by later, Lela?’

I glanced at Audrie and I saw the confused look that she wore on her face, and I think it mirrored mine to a T.

We’ll try to figure that out later, maybe on the walk home.

‘Yeah sure, no problem.’ Now I was really confused.

‘Seeing as how you girls have figured that out, how much material do you want, Lela?’

‘Good question, I suppose it’s best to have too much than not enough.’

‘Yes, I suppose so.’

‘Just give me what you think I’ll need for, say, three sets of sheets and blankets and curtains for one set of windows, floor length, Ruth.’

‘Right, I can do that.’

We watched as Ruth measured out the material and cut it into the appropriate lengths.

‘Is there anything else you need?’

‘I’ll need some cotton, a good pair of scissors, measuring tape, and pins, thanks, Ruth.’

‘Yep.’

Ruth shuffled off and went about getting what I needed then came back with her arms full.

‘You’re going to need one of these as well.’

It was a sewing box. Ruth had put all the things into it and a few other things then tallied it up. ‘I’ll take ten dollars off for you.’

‘Thanks, Ruth, that’s lovely of you.’

I drained my cup as did Audrie. I then paid for what I bought and said our goodbyes and told Debby that we will see her later, and then we left.

‘What in God’s name was that all about?’

‘I have no idea; she threw me for a loop.’

‘And her hugging you, what’s she playing at? Did you feel anything from her when she did hug you?’

‘Now that you mention it, there was something, but I didn’t pick it up. I think Charlotte picked it up and I saw it through her.’

‘Wow, really, that’s great; you always thought little Charlotte would be psychic.’

‘Yes, I did, this is the first time I’ve received anything though.’

‘That’s probably because this is the first time you’ve been out and about.’

‘Ahh yeah, I didn’t think of that.’

‘So what did you see?’

‘Oh yes, Charlotte showed me that Debby was not in touch with her great-great-great-grandfather anymore.’

‘What!’

‘Yeah, it struck me the same, is this why she is different?’

‘And her hugging you, maybe she wanted you to see for yourself because she probably knew you wouldn’t just take her word on saying that she wasn’t in touch with him anymore.’

‘And she would have been right there too.’

‘Hence the hugging.’

‘Oh yeah, I understand, but say, what if it’s only a rouse, say, if she wants us to come to that conclusion.’

Audrie looked at me. ‘How do you mean?’

‘Well, think about it. What she had or has between her and her great-great—great-granddaddy is so powerful that they can make you think and see that’s it over and done with between them, just so she and he can find out on how much we know or how far we have come to cracking the mystery of this town.’

‘Geez, I never thought of that, you very well may be right. So what are we going to do with that?’

‘What say we play along and see where it takes us and to what happens next?’

‘I like it, but Charlie won’t want you involved in any of it.’

‘I know, but just because I’m pregnant won’t stop spirits or anything else for that matter from doing their thing. Besides I have an extra psychic boost on my side.’ I patted my belly.

Audrie laughed. ‘That you do.’

‘So tell me, Audrie, what took you so long? I thought you got lost in the Take It or Leave It store.’

‘And it would be easy to get lost in there too, they have some wonderful stuff, I’ll have to have a better look one day.’

‘Ooh you do that and I’ll come with you.’

‘Deal, what say we have a good look tomorrow if you are up to it?’

‘Oh, I’ll be up to it.’

‘Great, it’s a date then.’

*    *    *

We walked through the front gate and up the stairs; I fished out my keys and opened the door.

‘Here I will put these in Charlotte’s room for you, you go put your feet up and I’ll make us a cup of tea or coffee. What would you prefer, Lela?’

‘I’ll have a coffee thanks.’

‘Right you are, back in a few.’

‘OK.’

I went and sat in the sitting room and pulled up my footstool Charlie got for me when I was two months in, the footstool is of dusty pink and padded over four gorgeous hand-carved legs with a darker shade of pink fringing that runs around the edge of the padding. I love it, it’s perfect, actually. He bought two of them, one is for in here and the other we’ve put in Charlotte’s room along with the rocking chair that was sitting in the sunroom.

It’s perfect, now all I need is a cradle for her room and everything made—curtains, sheets, blankets, and such—then I can sit back and wait for Charlotte to arrive.

I hope that my sewing machine is up to it though; it was on its last legs a while ago, so long ago that I can’t even remember when I last used it, never mind just as long as it gets through what I want it for now.

‘Here we are, two coffees, I put just a small dash of brandy in yours. I hope you don’t mind?’

‘Not at all, I was hoping you would.’ Audrie handed me my cup, and I took a sip. ‘Aah, that’s great, thanks, Audrie.’

‘You’re welcome.’

‘It’s been a long time; I almost forgot how good it tastes.’

‘Thought you would, five months without an Audrie special must have been like hell for you.’

‘It certainly was, but that was my choice to wait that long, and it is well worth that wait.’

‘I’m glad you like it. When we finish our coffees, there is something I want to show you.’

‘Good, I hope?’

‘Oh yes, it’s good all right.’

‘Now you’ve got me intrigued.’

‘Good.’

‘Are you going to give me any hints?’

‘Nope.’

‘Just a small one.’

‘Nope.’

‘Ugh, you’re as bad as Charlie.’

‘Where do you think I got it from?’

‘Just wait till I see him,’ I said with a laugh.

‘Poor man.’

Now we were both laughing.

The two of us were sitting and laughing at Charlie’s expense when from the hall came solid footsteps. We both fell silent and listened. The footsteps started from down the near the kitchen and kept walking up towards where we were sitting.

A cold shiver ran down my back. I had gotten out of the habit of hearing anything for a few months now that I must admit this was freaking me out.

I looked at Audrie and I could see that it was doing the same to her.

The footsteps kept on coming, then stopped at the doorway, then proceeded into the room and stopped in front of the mantle.

I sucked in my breath and held it, I was now afraid. Audrie quickly came and sat beside me. She was so close that I could feel her shaking as her leg was touching mine.

The temperature dropped so rapidly that my coffee was starting to cool quickly in my hands.

Audrie and I were both looking in the direction of the mantle, and a figure started to take form as we watched. There was something familiar about this spirit, but I couldn’t put my finger on it quite yet; however, it wasn’t until a pair of broad shoulders appeared that I recognised who this was.

‘Dominic,’ I whispered, and it came out in a rush, forgetting that I was holding my breath.

‘Oh my god, Lela, no.’

When Dominic fully formed and stood in front of us, I again had forgotten how big he was. I all but threw my cup down and immediately covered my child with my hands, and when I did that, strangely enough, a calm settled over me. Was Charlotte doing this to me, was she settling me down, making me think straight? I think she was; she didn’t make me feel frightened anymore. Nevertheless, poor Audrie was still shaking beside me.

Therefore, I grabbed her left hand and put it on my belly in the hopes that Charlotte would calm her too, and it did, I could feel her shaking start to settle.

Audrie turned and she had a confused look on her face.

‘Charlotte,’ I mouthed.

Audrie gave a slight nod.

We turned our attention back to Dominic, and he took a couple of steps forward. I stiffened and Audrie did too, although I still felt calm.

Chapter 2

Dominic now was standing just the other side of the coffee table, and that was the only thing that separated him from us.

‘Dominic, you’re back.’

In my ears, I could hear the calm in my voice, and even that surprised me.

Dominic reached up and removed his hat, and once again, I was looking to a pair of ice blue eyes.

‘Yeah, I’m back, and I want to thank ya for helpin’ me find my Lela.’

I was taken aback by the kind words coming from this spirit, who once beat me so bad I thought that I was going to die.

‘You’re very welcome, Dominic; I gather you found her then?’

‘Yeah, I did, and she wants ta thank ya herself iffin that’s OK by ya.’

‘Of course it is, Dominic, I would be honoured to meet her.’

‘Right, I’ll go an’ fetch her then.’

Dominic disappeared and I breathed a sigh of relief.

‘I thought we were goners for a minute there.’

‘So did I, Audrie. When I saw it was Dominic, I nearly fainted.’

‘And your Charlotte is some powerful little girl. When you put my hand on your belly, my fear just melted and left me calm and clear-headed, thank you for doing that.’

‘Don’t mention it.’

‘When I saw that spirit was Dominic, my hands immediately flew to protect Charlotte, and when that happened, I felt what you just described, and I wondered if she would help you too, so that’s why I grabbed your hand, I could feel you shaking beside me.’

‘Wow, that’s going to be some little girl you’ll have, you know.’

‘Yes, I know.’

Now that I knew Dominic is not here to harm, I allowed myself to relax a little more. However, I left my hand on my bell just to see if Charlotte will show me something, anything.

‘Do you mind if I leave my hand here on you?

‘No, of course not.’

Now that Audrie and I had settled, somewhat we waited for Dominic’s return.

Boy, did I ever have so much to tell Charlie when he gets home tonight; I was going over what things I was going to tell Charlie when something shot forward in my mind.

Now that I am past the halfway mark of my pregnancy, are the spirits that have been silently absent these last five months now making them known? Was it my visit outside that brought me back into their sight? On the other hand, is it the fact that Charlotte is growing stronger is why they are now appearing?

These thoughts and more were pushing themselves forward, making me question the whys.

I think so.

I kept my eyes focused near the fireplace waiting for Dominic’s return, and I didn’t have to wait long before I started to see a misty haze form.

The haze started to take form, and I could see two shapes in the centre, one Dominic, and the other obviously his Lela. Dominic was the first to form solidly, but his Lela remained a haze, and I don’t know why.

‘Ya, it is me, Lela here is ashamed of how I acted towards ya, and she is not sure if ya want ta meet her.’

‘Of course we want to meet her, she has nothing to be ashamed about.’

‘Did ya hear that, darlin’, it’s OK ta take form.’

With Dominic’s words, Lela started to form beside him. As I watched, I saw myself appear. It was like looking into a mirror. Everything about her screamed me. From her face, her hair colour and length, to body shape and height. I heard Audrie gasp beside me, which mirrored my own reaction. No wonder Dominic was confused. This woman standing in front of us is me; she even has the same coloured green eyes. It’s astonishing, and a little frightening, but astonishing all the same.

‘Oh my god, it’s… it’s me.’

‘I’ll say, just look at her, no wonder Dominic thought…’ Audrie’s words died before she could finish her thought.

‘Hello, um, hello, Lela.’ It felt strange talking to someone who is a dead ringer to yourself.

‘Good morning.’

Her voice sounded similar to mine, although a little higher in pitch.

‘It’s lovely to finally meet you. I just want to say how sorry I am that my Dominic mistook you for me. However, looking at you now, I can see why.’

Dominic hung his head in shame. ‘Ya, I am sorry I put ya through what I did, I see now it was not right. I don’t know how ta make it up to ya.’

‘You don’t have to make it up to me; I’m just pleased you found your Lela, and that you’re happy.’

‘You are so kind, Lela. I was furious when I found out what he did to you, and when I heard that you forgave him, I thought I could do the same.’

‘Thank you, Lela, I think you made Dominic a happy man for that as well.’

‘She sure did, and now has taught me ta speak better too.’

‘I can hear that, you now sound like a gentleman.’

Dominic smiled.

‘I can see that you are with child, Lela.’

I looked down at my belly. ‘Yes, I am.’

Lela dropped her hands from in front of her. ‘As am I.’

I was stunned. I didn’t know spirits could become pregnant, but what do I know anyway.

‘Congratulations to the both of you, how far along are you, Lela?’

‘I am five months gone.’

My jaw dropped. ‘Five months, that’s how far I am.’

‘That is wonderful; it must go with the name.’

‘Yes, it must, do you have any names picked yet?’ Please, please don’t say Charlotte Levina Rose., I thought.

‘Yes, we do. Actually we have three names for our daughter.’

My god, no.

‘Would you like to hear what we have chosen?’

‘Yes, I would.’ Not really.

Audrie was awfully quiet beside me; I think she is in a state of shock as I am.

‘The three names we have chosen are Miranda Fay Dwan.’

‘Dwan, that’s unusual, I never heard of that. Where did that come from?’

‘It was originally Dawn, but I changed around the W and A to make it Dwan. Do you like it?’

‘Yes, I do, it makes it unique.’

‘That’s what we thought.’

‘I want to thank ya for everything ya did for me, Lela, and to let ya know that if ya ever in trouble, I want ya ta know ya can count on me to help ya. All ya needs ta do is call and I will be here ta help.’

‘That’s very kind of you, Dominic, and you never know, I—we—may take you up on your offer someday.’

‘And I will be pleased to help. Goodbye, Lela, Audrie.’

‘Yes, goodbye, Lela, and thank you for bringing my Dominic back to me.’

‘You are welcome.’

Dominic and Lela turned, and with holding hands, they disappeared.

‘My god, what just happened?’ Audrie said, pulling herself out of her stunned silence.

‘I’m not sure; even though I saw it for myself, I am still stunned by it myself.’

‘Did you know that spirits could become pregnant?’

‘No, you?’

‘New one on me.’

‘I’ll have to ask Catherine about that, it has me confused, to say the least.’

‘Same.’

While Audrie and I were trying to figure out spirits being pregnant, I had completely forgotten about Debby calling by until there was a knock at the front door.

Audrie looked at me with questioning eyes. ‘Debby.’

‘Oh, that’s right. I forgot about her.’

‘Me too until the knock.’

‘I’ll get it, you wait here.’

Audrie got up, went, and answered the front door, and by the voices, I was right, it was Debby. I didn’t really fancy visitors at present, not after what just happened. I felt a bit drained. However, I sucked it up and readied myself for her.

Debby came walking into the sitting room, but I couldn’t see Audrie. I gathered she went to go and put the kettle on. I hope she did; I was in need of another brandied coffee, well, first one, actually, the other one is still sitting here untouched.

‘Come sit, Debby, it looks like Audrie is making us a coffee.’

‘That sounds good.’

‘What have you been up to lately?’

I don’t know if I caught her off guard or anything, but I saw her flinch just ever so slightly.

‘Oh, nothing much really, just looking after my business.’

Liar. ‘That’s good, is it picking up?’

‘Surprisingly enough, yes.’

Yeah, and I know why too.

Audrie came back in carrying three cups. ‘Here you go, three coffees, I’m sorry that I didn’t bother asking, but I thought you’d want one anyway.’

‘Its fine and I did want one, thank you.’

Debby took a sip of her coffee, then pulled her cup back and looked at it.

‘Is everything OK, Debby? You looked puzzled.’

‘Yes, everything is fine. It’s just that this is a lovely cup of coffee, what’s the secret?

‘Brandy.’

‘Brandy? It does make it taste different; it’s nice, I like it.’

My feelings of Debby having an ulterior motive for being here are becoming stronger by the minute. As I watched Debby, she looked around the room, obviously in search of something. I could see her eyes moving all around the walls, which made me wonder if she knew about that room that suddenly appeared some months back.

I wouldn’t doubt it at all.

‘Is everything all right, Debby? You look distracted.’

Debby’s eyes swung round to me, and something behind them just didn’t seem right; she blinked a couple of times then and the something I saw was gone.

‘Oh yes, everything is fine. I was just taking in this lovely room, you’ve done a fantastic job on it, it looks great.’

I didn’t have a clue what she was talking about, as we have done nothing to this room except putting cushions over the window seat, but I thought I’d play along and see where this goes, maybe even as far as dropping little hints as to what strange things have happened in here.

Firstly I needed to let Audrie know my intentions and to play along.

I just hope Audrie is in tune to receive my thoughts. I’ll soon find out. Audrie, if you can hear me, just play along, all right?

I waited for a moment and I was relieved when Audrie’s thoughts came back.

I thought you would, I got your back, carry on.

Watch for any reaction, would you?

Sure.

All our internal talk only took a couple of seconds so Debby would not have any idea that it went on.

*    *    *

‘Actually, Debby, it’s all back to normal now, but there was something strange going on in here a few months back.’

I didn’t need Audrie to tell me. I could see her reaction for myself. Debby sat up straighter, and her head snapped up to face me.

‘Really, what happened?’

‘Well, one night this curtain appeared out of nowhere right there.’ I pointed to the wall beside me. Debby’s eyes followed to the point where I showed her. Now she became very interested. She stood and walked to the wall and ran her hand across it.

‘A curtain, you say.’

‘Yes, then believe it or not, a door followed.’

‘You’re kidding.’

‘Nope.’

Still at the wall, she looked hard. ‘Then what happened?’

‘Nothing really.’

Debby turned back to me. ‘Nothing? No room or anything?’

Hmm, she knows.

‘No room. Why would a room appear?’

‘Oh, um, well, I thought if there was a door, there would have to have been a room too.’

‘What would a secret room be doing in my house?’

Here, fishy fishy fishy.

When I heard Audrie, I almost laughed, but I reined it in quickly and let Debby carry on, just seeing how much she knew. I looked at Debby’s face, but she wasn’t here, she was somewhere else entirely. She was seeing inside that room, that’s for sure.

‘Oh, I don’t know, maybe the old woman who lived here was into something, well, strange.’

‘Gee, I wouldn’t have thought that, that would be strange. What would she have in there?’ I asked, sounding as if I didn’t have a clue and hoping that it sounded the same way to her.

‘Aah, probably an altar, cauldron, herbs, a book of some sort, maybe even a vial of blood that she may keep tucked away in a small wooden box hidden on some shelf, that sort of thing.’

She definitely knows.

That’s for sure.

‘You have some imagination on you, Debby.’

My words pulled her back from the room she was in, and she looked at me kind of horrified on how much she had let on. ‘Ah geez, take no notice of me, you’re right, it’s just my vivid imagination. I used to get in trouble with that when I was a kid. I tend to ramble on too much.’

That you do, but to our advantage.

Uh-huh.

‘Don’t worry, Debby, we all do that at times.’

Debby came back and sat down. ‘Anyway, this is why I came; I want to give you this.’ She picked up a bag that was on the floor beside her and handed it over to me. ‘It’s my gift to you.’

‘Thank you, Debby, but you know you didn’t have to do that.’

‘I know, but I want to.’

I opened the bag and took out a box; on the side of the box was a picture of the faery lamp inside.

I took out the faery lamp and sat it on the coffee table.

‘Debby, it’s beautiful, thank you.’

The faery lamp was a pink mushroom with a darker pink beaded fringe that ran around the bottom of the lampshade. The central pedestal was a thick light green stalk and the base looked to be the ground on which it grew from; there were small faeries of varying colours. Around the top sat several butterflies and dragonflies, plus sitting on the very top was another faery, but slightly larger than the others; she was in green with her long hair swept back just like it caught the morning breezes, her wings were emerald green with flecks of gold through them.

In addition, hanging from the lamp was a delicate gold chain that you turn it off and on with. This was some lamp, and any little girl would love to have it sitting in her room.

‘Debby, I don’t know what to say, this is one stunning lamp. I’ve never seen anything like this before.’

‘Me neither, Debby, it’s gorgeous.’

‘I hope your little girl will like it. By the way, do you have a name picked out for your little one?’

I was somewhat reluctant to say, but I thought I had better, but I will only give her first name, because telling someone your full name can come against you, especially if that someone is into the black arts.

‘Yes, we have, her name is Charlotte.’

‘What a lovely name, any others?’

‘Not yet, we haven’t thought that far ahead yet.’

‘Fair enough, but when you do, please let me know, because I’d love to embroider her name on some towels for you.’

‘That’s nice of you, I will.’ Never.

‘Anyway, ladies, I best get going back to my shop. It won’t run itself.’

‘Sure, and thanks again for the lamp, Debby. Charlie will just adore it.’

‘It’s no problem at all, and say hi to Charlie for me.’

‘Sure.’

Audrie and I walked Debby out and waved her off. I closed the door and turned to Audrie.

‘Am I ever glad that’s over with?’

‘You’re not wrong there.’

‘I better cut up some vegies. Come with me, we can discuss what just transpired.’

‘I’ll be in that.’

*    *    *

We headed to the kitchen and I went to the fridge and took out what I wanted.

Standing at the sink peeling the vegies, Audrie was beside me giving me a hand.

‘Tell me something, how come you didn’t tell Debby Charlotte’s full name?’

‘I didn’t want her to know it.’

‘Why?’

‘If you’re into the black arts or even if it’s not the black arts, if they know your full name, you’re in trouble.’

‘How so?’

‘Well, you do a spell on someone knowing their full name, it will come directly to you. If you don’t know their full name, it might not be able to find you. You know any spell you do, you have to be specific in the details.’

‘Ah yes, you’re right, I suppose Debby won’t find out Charlotte’s full name.’

‘Nope, and I’ll keep it from her and the ones I do not trust, however, they may eventually find out one day, but by then, I can do a charm for Charlotte that will dispel anything somebody might want to do.’

‘Good idea. What are we cooking to go with these vegies?’

‘I thought Charlie could do with a good wholesome backed dinner, I have a leg of lamb that I’m about to put in the oven.’

‘Oh yum, my mouth is watering already with just the thought of it, and mint sauce, I suppose?’

‘Yep, just like Mum used to make.’ I went and picked some mint leaves from the pot that was sitting on the windowsill.

‘Could you get me the vinegar from the cupboard, please?’

‘Yeah, sure.’

Audrie fetched the vinegar for me, and I poured some into a jug and chopped up the mint leaves then added them to the vinegar with a teaspoon of sugar and let it sit to do its job of blending.

The oven didn’t take long to heat up, and all I had to do was pop the lamb in and let the oven do the rest.

‘There, done.’

‘Right, cup of tea?’

‘Yes, please.’

Audrie pottered around making the tea, then when she was done, she joined me at the kitchen table.

‘Here you go.’

‘Thanks.’

‘You know that lamp is lovely, I never seen anything like that before.’

‘No, neither have I, it is exquisitely made, but why all of a sudden does she want to be friends now? Does she have an ulterior motive or something, do you think?’

‘Knowing what I know of Debby, I wouldn’t be surprised.’

‘I know that my imagination might be running away here, but what if there is something with the lamp that lets them know what’s going on here?’

‘I’d say yes, your imagination is running away from you.’

‘Oh very funny, no, think about it, she turns up here being friendly offering gifts and gives me hugs, tell me, what am I to think?’

‘Hearing it, put that way, you may have a point, but what are you going to do about it?’

‘Nothing at present.’

‘Are you going to put the lamp in Charlotte’s room?’

‘Yes, I am, and I will charge some crystals to put around the lamp, and I may do a spell of my own to block anything from getting through.’

‘You can do that?’

‘Yes, if they can, I can.’

‘I’ll help you if you like.’

‘That will be good, if we both have the same intentions, say, protecting Charlotte and believing it will work, I don’t see why it shouldn’t work.’

‘No, neither do I, when do you want to do this?’

‘Probably when we set up Charlotte’s room. If I’m right about the lamp, they’ll be expecting things to be set before she is born, but first Charlie and I will have to buy furniture before anything.’

‘That’s true, what type do you have in mind?’

‘I like to get the old-fashioned things if I can, maybe have a look through Take It or Leave It shop, hey, you were there today, did you see anything like that in there?’

‘No, no, I didn’t.’

‘Ooh well, I still have five months; anything could happen in that time.’

‘Yeah, you just never know.’

‘Come on, Audrie, let’s set this table, Charlie should be home soon.’

‘No prob.’

We busied ourselves with setting the table, putting a jug of cold water out and all the other paraphernalia that goes along with fixing up the table.

My mint sauce went in beside the salt and peppershakers. I just hopped it tastes as good as Mum’s does.

Audrie and I just finished putting the wine glasses on the table when I heard Charlie pull in, and I went and opened up the back door for him. There was still a nip in the air, but I’m not surprised seeing as how we did get a few days of snow here. I’ll have to ask Dad if it snowed there at home. He’s going to think I’ve lost my mind for asking, and I wouldn’t blame him, but first of all, I will get into trouble for being away too long, but I’m sure when they find out about their granddaughter, I’m sure they will forgive me.

I watched as Charlie walked towards the door and to me. When he met me, I threw my arms around him and planted a loving kiss on his full lips, and he kissed me back with the passion of a hungry man.

When I finished with the kiss, he pulled back and looked at me with a startled look in his eyes.

‘Wow, what did I do to deserve that?’

‘Nothing really, I’m just glad to see you, that’s all.’

‘I’m glad to see you too, honey.’ Charlie placed his hand on my belly. ‘And you too, Charlotte.’

I don’t mind it when Charlie or Audrie and obviously my family does that, and maybe even Eric and Delilah, but for anyone I don’t know does that, I’ll take their arm off at the elbow.

Being pregnant does not give anyone a free ticket to touch someone’s belly.

‘Come on in, darling, dinner is just about done.’

‘Mmm, I can smell it, what are we having?’

‘Leg of lamb and roast vegies.’

‘Mint sauce?’

‘Of course.’

‘Home-made?’

‘Is there any better?’

‘Nope.’

I stood aside and Charlie walked in.

‘How was your day, hon?’

‘That is a long story.’

‘That good, huh?’

‘You won’t believe it.’

‘Will I have time to have a shower?’

‘Sure.’

‘Good.’

‘You go though and have a shower; I’ll get your clothes and bring them in.’

‘Thanks, honey.’

I heard Audrie’s greeting as Charlie walked into the kitchen. There were a few exchanges of conversation, but I couldn’t hear what as I made my way to the bedroom.

I went and grabbed Charlie’s jeans from the wardrobe and took out his favourite black flannelette shirt, then left the bedroom, switching off the light as I walked out and back though the kitchen.

‘Won’t be long, Audrie, I’m just going to give Charlie a change of clothes.’

‘I have it all under control.’

I entered the bathroom just as Charlie stepped out of the tub.

‘Ah, good timing,’ Charlie said as he reached for his towel.

‘For you or me?’

‘Oh, for you, of course.’ A smile spread across his face.

‘I thought you’d say that.’

Charlie dried himself and I handed him his clothes.

‘Thanks.’

Once he was dressed, we left the bathroom and came back into the kitchen.

Audrie was at the stove taking the lamb and the vegies out of the oven.

‘Could you cut up the lamb please, Charlie?’

‘I can do that for you.’

While Charlie did that, I dished up the vegies, and Charlie put some lamb on the plates. When he finished, we sat down to eat.

‘This is good, and your mint sauce tops it all off, thanks for this.’

‘Our pleasure.’

‘So what happened today?’

‘Audrie and I decided to go and visit the sisters; I wanted some material for Charlotte’s room.’

‘And she picked out some lovely material too.’

‘You’ll have to show me later.’

‘I will after we finish here, but you won’t believe this, while we were talking to Ruth—oh, Rose was not there this time, Ruth said she was sick or something—anyway, Debby came into the shop.’

‘Oh boy.’

‘Yep, that’s what I was thinking, but get this, she was nice to me.’

‘She was?’

‘Oh yeah, she even congratulated me, then she hugged me.’

Charlie’s head immediately swung around to face me. ‘She what!’

‘Hugged me.’

‘Really? Why now?’

‘I don’t know, but that’s not the surprising part.’

‘It’s not?’

‘No, the surprising part is she said that she has a lamp that she wants to give me for the baby.’

‘You’re kidding?’

‘Nope, not kidding.’

‘I can’t believe that, what is she playing at?’

‘Don’t know, but I’d dearly love to find out.’

‘But then she wanted to come around and give it.’

Charlie looked at Audrie. ‘And did she?’

‘Yes.’

Charlie’s eyes widened in surprise. ‘She actually came here?’

‘Oh yes.’

‘My god, I bet that blew your mind.’

‘To say the least.’

‘And that’s not all.’

‘Geez, there’s more?’

‘Yes, when Lela and I got home, we were in the sitting room and we got a visit from a spirit.’

‘Which spirit?’

‘Dominic.’

‘What! Dominic?’ Now Charlie looked angry.

‘It’s all right, darl, he was good, he wanted us to meet his Lela, that’s all, and to thank me for helping him find her.’

‘Well, that’s all right then, and did you meet his Lela?’

‘Yes, she’s lovely, she does look like me, no wonder he was confused.’

‘And get this, Charlie; his Lela is also five months pregnant.’

Charlie almost choked on his food. ‘What? How? Can she?’

‘She looked like it to me, but I don’t know how, well, I do know how, but I don’t know how spirits can, or even if they could, it just doesn’t make sense. I don’t even know if any books could tell you either. Oh hell, I just don’t know.’

‘She also has three names picked for, get this, their daughter, just like you and Lela.’

‘Did she tell you what the names are?’

‘Yes, and I was hoping it wasn’t going to be Charlotte Evina Rose.’

‘I wasn’t, was it?’

‘No, thank goodness, the names they picked is Miranda Fay Dwan.’

Charlie repeated the names.

‘Dwan, that’s unusual, actually it sounds very nice, how did they derive at that?’

‘It does, it’s Dawn with the A and the W switched to make it unusual.’

‘Ingenious, it sounds to me like this Lela was a clever woman that had a good head on her shoulders.’

‘It does, and it goes with the name I’d say,’ I said with a smile.

‘Of course, honey, that goes without saying.’

‘And it’s a wise man who agrees with his wife.’

‘That’s correct, Audrie.’

‘I’m outnumbered here badly.’

‘You better get used to it, darl.’

‘At present, I can’t even count the spirits to be on my side.’

‘Nope.’

‘I’m finished here, and it was a lovely dinner, I’ll start on the dishes while you two finish.’

‘Thanks, Audrie.’

Audrie gathered up her plate, knife, and fork and went to the sink, filled it with hot water, and started washing up. It wasn’t long until Charlie and I joined her there.

‘You sit down, honey. Audrie and I have got this.’

‘Its fine, I’m OK, I’ll help.’

‘You sure? I don’t want you showing that you’re tough when you’re not.’

‘I’m not, I do really feel fine, and I’m not going to do anything to jeopardise our daughter.’

‘OK then.’

With the three of us doing the dishes, in no time we had it done and cleaned up.

‘Good, now I can show you the material that I bought today.’

*    *    *

We walked from the kitchen and up the hall. I opened the door to the bedroom that was across the hall from ours, and I switched on the light and was just about to step in, but I froze instead, and my mouth fell open.

From behind me, I heard Audrie’s voice. ‘Do you like it?’

‘You did this for us, Audrie?’

‘Yes, I hope I didn’t overstep the boundaries?’

I turned around to face Audrie; she had a worried look on her face, and she was probably thinking I was going to get mad at her, but I threw my arms around her. ‘Thank you so much, you didn’t have to do that.’

‘I wanted to contribute to the baby, you and Charlie have done so much for me, letting me stay and such, I just wanted to pay you back, but I didn’t know how, not until I stepped into that Take It or Leave It store.’

‘Audrie, this is fantastic,’ Charlie said.

‘Go in, have a look.’

We stepped in and I looked around. Audrie had bought us a cradle that was beautifully hand-carved, a chest of draws with four larger draws and two smaller draws on either side of the larger one. A wooden high chair that has an intricate design carved on the back, and it has four wooden wheels, something that I have never seen before. I love it. It’s all old-fashioned.

I looked around and then spotted a turn-of-the-century wicker pram on four big wheels, with the handle curving up and out from the base. It looks like the basket sits on curved metal bands, something like the old horse and carriages were like.

The basket itself is about four foot long and is simply gorgeous. She also bought us a table that hold a baby bath, and the bath that is sitting on it is a baby-size claw-footed bathtub, a smaller version of our bath.

‘Oh, Audrie, this is wonderful, thank you.’

‘Yes, thank you, Audrie.’

‘You are both welcome.’

‘So this is why you were so long, how did you get this home?’

‘The guy at the store has a van and he kindly helped me here with it.’

‘That was good of him, and I got something for you too, honey. You wait here while I go and get it.’

‘All right.’ I wondered what it could be. ‘Do you know what he’s getting?’

‘Um, no.’

I looked at Audrie. ‘Yes, you do, I can see it on your face.’

‘No, you don’t, do you?’

I laughed and shook my head. ‘You can’t hide what shows on your face, you know.’

‘All right then, yes, I do know, but I’m not telling you, you’ll just have to wait and see for yourself.’

‘How long have you known?’

‘Not long.’

‘Audrie.’

‘Fine, a week.’

‘Hmmm, a week.’

I heard Charlie walking back and he stopped just outside the door. I then heard a thump and Charlie walked in empty-handed. He looked at Audrie.

‘Did she question you?’

‘Oh yes, she did, just like you said she would.’

‘I knew she would.’

‘Hey, can’t blame a girl for trying.’

‘That’s what makes you special, hon, and what I love about you.’

‘Am I going to find out what you got me, or do I have to guess?’

‘Close your eyes then.’

‘Do I have to?’

‘Yes.’

‘Humph, all right.’ I closed my eyes, and I could hear movement around me, and I wondered what they were doing. It was driving me crazy with not seeing.

‘Can I open them yet?’

‘Hang on.’

More movement.

‘OK, you can open them.’

I opened my eyes, and in front of me was an old electric Singer sewing machine. ‘Oh, Charlie, it’s lovely, where did you find it?’

‘Same place where Audrie found all of this.’

‘Take It or Leave It?’

‘Yep.’

‘I should know.’

‘And it works perfectly too, he tested everything with it.’

The sewing machine was black with the word Singer in gold. It sat on a wooden base, and the cover was a wooden dome shape. It had a red fabric-covered cord and several metal bobbins. These old types of machines were heavy as the body was a good solid metal too. It will more than likely outlast me, and they made things to last in those days, which we are fast becoming a throwaway society.

I put my arms around Charlie and gave him a kiss, then looked back at Audrie. ‘And you knew about this for a week.’

‘Yep.’ Audrie had a grin from ear to ear.

‘Honestly, the pair of you are wonderful; all of this is going to be helpful, thank you.’

‘Yes, thank you, Audrie, this is way beyond anything, do you want me to go halves with what you bought, Audrie?’

‘No no, it’s my gift to both of you, especially little Charlotte. When I saw all of this, I knew exactly what I wanted to do.’

‘Well, thank you.’

‘I’m glad for the sewing machine too, my other one is on its last legs, and I was hoping it would just last until I got the sewing done.’

‘Speaking of sewing, hon, show me the material you got.’

‘Oh yeah, I forgot about that.’ I looked around the room but I couldn’t see it.

‘Audrie, where did you put the material?’

‘It’s over here in the cradle.’

‘Oh thanks.’ As I walked up to the cradle, I then noticed that the cradle come with a little mattress, and the inside around the sides had