Tessa

By M. E. Brittain

A fictitious journey of an exceptional female and her adventurous spirit. Allow 'Tessa' to share with you a tormented yet wondrous life of failures and success. Conquer the life of poverty and then be seduced by a life of power. Share the memories and secrets of a fascinating woman. Escape for a time with 'Tessa'.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tellwell Talent
• Release date: Feb 5, 2019
• ISBN: 9780228806967

Book preview

Tessa

Copyright © 2019 by M.E.Brittain

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Tellwell Talent

www.tellwell.ca

ISBN

978-0-2288-0697-4 (Hardcover)

978-0-2288-0695-0 (Paperback)

978-0-2288-0696-7 (eBook)

1

Confusion

The night voices of Nature subsided as the sun awoke to warm the shaded woods. Only the footsteps of a human crackling through the damp underbrush broke the serenity of the morning. Every few feet the morning rays caught a glimpse of a person strolling back towards the hillside. As the figure moved towards a meadow by the shallow stream, it was clear to see that it was a female dressed to suit the crisp spring morning. Tessa was returning home from an outing she so often took to think things out. As she rounded the big oak to climb the ravine that circled the bottom of the driveway of her country retreat, her strides dug in.

Reaching the top, she paused for a moment and leaned her elbow on the gatepost that marked the edge of her property. Looking over her shoulder, she inhaled a deep breath of the beauty that surrounded her. There were wide ranges of dew-covered trees with misty clouds that brushed the tops of the branches and the offset blue of the mountains beyond. This was a sight Tessa treasured all of her days.

She shivered a bit as a cool breeze traveled her spine. She tightened the wrap of her wool sweater. As she turned to start up the gravel driveway, she heard a Stellar Jay from the fields up behind her cabin. She glanced in the direction of the call and caught sight of an Eagle. He outstretched a six foot wing span as he glided up over the peak of the cabin and headed off into the rising sun.

The long winding driveway rounded a small stable and garden before reaching the small garage. Tessa sidetracked her climb to take a spot check of her vegetables she had planted and gave each of her two horses a baby carrot that she picked just off the paddock area. The garden was self-sufficient for her, although most of the planted vegetables were not near being ready yet. She insisted that her animals around her shared in whatever bounty there was.

Coming out of the side door of the stable, she reached into her sweater pocket, sat herself down on the wood pile and proceeded to light up a cigarette. There was no rush now to get inside. No appointments to keep, no phones to answer and no guests to entertain and breakfast for her, could wait. Lying back against the piled logs, she tilted her head back and lost herself in the pale blue sky.

It was about seven a.m. now and the sun was seeing to drying the dew and warming the grounds and the day got off to a good start. For Tessa though, this day was like any other that had come and gone in the last few weeks. Hours of quiet and contemplation, daily chores, afternoon daydreams into the past, evenings with a lonely glass of wine and most nights in tears. Closing her eyes, she heard a playful laughter. People chatting with a distinct beat of music in the background and a car was nearing the cabin. Hearing the ignition die, Tessa lifted her head to see who was there but only the sturdy log cabin was in view. She sighed knowing only her daydream carried the hectic life she remembered.

Many a photo session was taken here. It had a turned down roof of cedar shakes that gave it that ‘ginger-bread house’ look and it was a structure of strength and longevity. Lilac bushes just out of bloom leaned in from the corners and sidewalk flowers bordered the cobblestones from the driveway to the front entrance. Sixty foot cedar tress towered over the roof top and gave shelter to the cabin from the hot summer sun and the heavy winter snows. The picture was made complete as the smoke from the fireplace within, whirled above the trees into oblivion leaving a smell of a southern barbeque in the air.

Tessa stomped her butt out in the gravel and then placed it in a bucket. She stretched herself upright and attempted to go inside. As she approached the front door, barks of dogs warned entry to anyone; anyone except Tessa that is. She pushed the latch handle down until it clicked, pushed open the solid cedar door and out pounced her two constant companions, excited and confused at having been left behind again for the fourth time.

More robust and assertive of the two was ‘Bullit’, a male English Bull Terrier. He darted down the walkway to check if anyone else was there. Meanwhile the quieter female Rottweiler, ‘Cognac’, clung close to Tessa’s side as she stepped indoors. The two dogs were the best of friends and were never far from Tessa’s call and attentiveness.

The cabin was cozy, warm and very homey-looking. Two frosted windows on either side of the massive front door, lighted the logged entrance way and were bordered by large wooden hooks for hanging jackets. To the right of the entrance was the staircase to the loft bedroom that looked down the cathedral ceiling to the entry and den entrance below. To the left was an oval archway of red stained cedar slats that beckoned spectators to enter. Inside, your first sight was that of the wall fireplace made of stone and slate from the floor to the ceiling. This was the sitting room and den. A small cluttered library with a desk at one end and a seating area on the other. Looking back passed the entrance way, there was a vision of the bright outdoors. This was the kitchen done in white pine and embroidered with hanging flower baskets and climbing vines. The roof held an enormous wall-to-wall skylight that gave an abundance of sunlight to the vegetation and they thrived on it. The island-style stove was designed for kitchen efficiency with the fridge, oven and sink directly adjacent on the outside wall. The counter squared itself to make a bar-style eating area complete with stools. Completing this scene were the sliding glass doors that took you to an L-shaped porch of swing chairs, barbeque and small steps. The steps went off and led you down passed the generator shed and smoke house and off into the woods. Centered between the den and the kitchen was a hallway that led to the spare bedroom, bathroom and laundry room. Most utilities ran from a large generator although the fridge, stove and hot water tank were adaptable to propane as well. Oil lamps and candles throughout the cabin supplied any needed light at bedtime and were rarely used during the summer months.

The loft was Tessa’s hide-a-way with its own ensuite containing a sunken tub with shower and ample closet space for storage. Centered on the room’s white shag rug stood a brass waterbed, heated by solar panels in the roof. Another large skylight above the bed brought morning early to Tessa’s hide-a-way. This was the first real country cottage that Tessa had designed but her architectural work could better be seen in many large cities. The cabin was her pride and joy and it took many months to build just the way she wanted it.

Tessa slipped her arm from her sweater and reached to hang it on a hook as she shut the door with her foot then turned to the kitchen, summoning her companions to join her. This was not the only home the companions had known, just their summer home for the past five years. Tessa had bred them seven years prior in her kennels in Vancouver. Well trained and well mannered, they had gone everywhere with Tessa since their birth. Dog and horse breeding were just a couple of Tessa’s many hobbies for so many years but her enthusiasm for hobbies had left her awhile back, as did so many things.

In the kitchen, Bullit was anxious to eat and very watchful of Tessa’s every move. Cognac sensed that Tessa was not quite herself so she stayed close as breakfast was in the making. The meal was not quick in coming and the dogs were not used to waiting so long. Tessa gathered the dog bowls and her plate and placed them on the bar along with some bacon, eggs and bread. On her trip to the fridge for the morning liquids, she grabbed the oatmeal from the cupboard and returned with some orange juice for herself and milk for the dogs.

Before the dogs had finished their meal, Tessa was on the move again. Cognac was quick to leave her meal and follow Tessa into the den only to see that a radio was being turned on. Tessa took every chance she had to listen to her Classical music for the generator was not usually left on all day. Heading back to their meals, Bullit met them both in the entry. This meant only one thing that both bowls of food were gobbled down by one dog and Bullit was now ready for his outing. Seeing Cognac had been cheated out of her meal, Tessa let Bullit out the sliding doors and sat down to complete her meal not forgetting for a moment to share it with Cognac. Soon breakfast was over as Tessa got up to place her dishes in the sink, Cognac left to sit at her post by the front door.

This morning, instead of starting the chores right away, Tessa grabbed a coffee, let Bullit in and calmly strolled to her desk in the den.

Tessa was never a hyper person but neither was she lazy, reserved or inhibited but lately she seemed to be going downhill. Her former self was nothing like this and nobody was around to pick up her spirits. More wine bottles were being emptied and less food eaten and the companions weren’t getting their usual attention. Even the horses were restless from lack of exercise. Her few trips to town for gas and supplies, was close to eighty miles away and the only reason she didn’t stop all together.

Life was definitely not the same lately. Tessa sipped her coffee and hovered over the papers on her desk. As she sifted through the pile, she thought of her youth.

The Reservation was not a place for growing youngsters. Education was lacking and the way people looked at you when they walked anywhere close-by was enough to make your stomach turn. One day she decided to leave her mother and the wise Chief that had been her teacher, and seek out her father in the big city. With only a paper bag for food and clothing and the picture of her father, who she had never met, she made her way to her mother’s room in the old shack they called home. The two empty bottles beside the bed explained why her mother didn’t hear her enter the room. It was a common sight as she leaned over to kiss her mother good-bye. A muffled voice spoke her name;

Tesiwa?

With that pathetic acknowledgment, she promised herself that she would never be known by that name again for it reminded her of a life she would rather forget. Her mother would never miss her for she rarely realized she had children at all let alone a daughter coming of age. This would be the only chance to get away and it wouldn’t last forever. Tessa left that day, at age twelve, never to look back.

On foot, she made her way to the city limits by nightfall and knew she would need a place to sleep soon. Not many people were willing to look at a native, not to mention help one so she plodded on until she came across an old bag lady in an alley eating out of a can with her fingers. Tessa stopped and asked where she might be able to spend the night. The old lady was slow to respond but finally nodded. She picked up her things and motioned for Tessa to follow her. As they walked, Tessa noticed all the city lights and the noise and the excitement she had heard so much about. People in nice cars and dressed in pretty clothes. This, she thought, was what she would have one day.

Caught up in the atmosphere of the city’s activities, the old lady grabbed her by the arm and pushed her to go ahead. Down an alley they walked, over some train tracks and in behind an old deserted building. That is where the old lady spent her nights. A ripped piece of tenting stretched over two oil cans and weighted down with rocks. A quick easy clean-up should a police official happen by. At least it was a place from the elements, she thought, and perhaps the morning might see her situation differently.

A whinny from the stable brought Tessa back to her desk and she was quick to respond and check the grounds through the window. All was calm and undisturbed but she realized it was passed feeding time for the stable pets and they were letting her know that. On this trek outside Tessa took some fresh oats and molasses and some eggshells for the chickens. A scurry through the garden to whip out some weeds then to take up the hose and fill water buckets.

After turning the hose off, Tessa made a jaunt down the fence-line to give it the once over. It was lunchtime before Tessa headed to the cabin for another coffee and by now the fireplace held merely cinders. Nearing the pathway to the front door, she heard a faint noise in the distance. A vehicle was approaching and Tessa was a mess. She didn’t have on a bra and wore an old grey skirt and sweatshirt and her hair was a bird’s nest. Tessa scampered for the front door, burst inside and flew up to the loft as a truck rounded the gateposts at the bottom of the driveway. The companions, now upstairs, were upset by all the excitement and watched Tessa with eager eyes and anticipation. From the loft window, Tessa could only see the make of the vehicle which was not familiar to her. She snapped up the bra from the foot of the bed, threw off the skirt and hoisted a pair of jeans on. She then darted to her ensuite to snatch up a brush to rake through her hair and pulled it back off her face with a hair-band.

There was a knock at the door and the companions were instantaneous to respond and keep all intruders out. A sharp and firm signal from Tessa, as she slid down the stairs, kept the two quiet and awaiting another command. Tessa gathered herself and calked the door open slightly to see who it was. With her next breath she sighed with relief and yet attained a sense of disappointment. She stepped back, told the companions it was ‘O.K.’ and allowed the person to enter.

It was Jonathan, her husband that had so long ago made an exit from her life and yet stayed in touch for so many years and for so many reasons.

Jonathan always had an aristocratic air about him, a smile that could make you melt and a slight twinkle of sarcasm. He stood six feet with sandy blonde hair that waved in the wind when he walked and it felt like silk even after a good workout. He had a way of getting to the point quickly, with charm and always with self-assurance. His honesty had given him more than his share of things in life but his trickery gave him even more. Which one was coming to visit?

His relationship with Tessa started many years ago and grew steadily, even after marriage. Even today, the roots ran deep. His existence was always somewhat ghostly though. He would appear then disappear and no one ever knew where he came from or where he went. Nor was it known when he would appear or for how long he would stay – no one – not even Tessa. Since their break-up a few years back, Jonathan’s personal life had never been brought up in conversation between the two of them. This was the main reason why they were no longer together.

The companions knew all too quickly who had broken the monotony and Cognac was the first to scan her nose over him. Bullit was his excited self to see that company, they’d not seen in a long while, had arrived. It was difficult to manoeuvre with all the excitement at his feet as Tessa stepped behind the door so Jonathan could get inside and close the door. Tessa finally gave a stern command of silence which the dogs immediately obeyed as they each went to their posts. Tessa offered to make some coffee as she started towards the kitchen. Jonathan nodded as he casually browsed the familiar cabin on his way to be seated in the den.

His arrival was at the request of his niece, Julie. She was also Tessa’s personal secretary and on occasion would check up on Tessa at the cabin. She had phoned Jonathan’s answering service and left a message of urgency for him to call her back. When he did, Julie stressed the importance of him to visit because Tessa had shut herself off from the world, had the phone disconnected and could probably use his help.

Julie came from Calgary where her parents still resided but she now lived in Vancouver at the Chadwick Estate. She moved there just before graduating to learn Business Management from Tessa and after graduating, Tessa hired her permanently. Julie was thoughtful and caring and became a good friend of Tessa’s but often tended to over react. This surely seemed to be one of those times.

Tessa returned with the coffee, placed the cups on the table in the den and then sat opposite Jonathan in her loveseat. She lit up a cigarette, crossed her knees as she looked in Jonathan’s direction with unfamiliar eyes and said,

So … what brings you this far north?

Blurting out the obvious, Jonathan replied,

Well … what seems to be the problem?

With a sarcastic tone, Tessa answered,

Oh, I’m doing very well Thank-you. And you?

I’m not here to mix words, Tessa … Julie called me and said that …

No, don’t tell me … she thinks I’m in dire need of help and you are the only one that can give it to me. Well, it’s not what it seems at all. I’m quite content here. The seclusion is probably what I need.

Tessa puffed hard on her cigarette and avoided any eye contact. She seemed genuinely annoyed at Jonathan’s assumptions. This was not the Tessa he knew. Maybe Julie wasn’t so far off with her concerns. Looking around again trying to choose the appropriate words, he noticed an empty wine bottle on the bookshelf and asked,

Indulging again are we? You never used to drink alone.

I never used to be alone. She snapped.

No, Tessa never used to be alone but she was now, why? The Tessa that Jonathan knew was full of life, exuberant, active and involved in everything she could. She was constantly busy doing something or going somewhere with her dogs or horses or clients. Even travelling, two or three times a week, to far off places and catered to by swarms of people including the dozens of staff and employees under her. She even had her own bodyguard. This was definitely not the same Tessa, Jonathan once knew. Curiosity got the best of him with that last thought so he charged in with another blunt question,

Have you heard from anybody lately? Greg maybe?

Tessa didn’t answer right away. Instead she folded herself into her lap for what started to be a good cry but held it back, sat upright and replied in a cool and collective manner,

I haven’t heard from anyone in quite sometime, including Gregory.

What about Julie? When was the last time you spoke with her?

Of course. Julie. It’s been at least a couple of weeks since I last talked with her but no one else … not for a long time … not since …

Tessa abruptly stopped herself from continuing. Wanting to change the subject, she grabbed for the empty cups and then inquired,

Care for another?

She stood to leave the room when Jonathan rose from his chair to block her exit from the den. As she tried to pass, he placed a hand on her shoulder and then tucked her chin up with his index finger of the other hand. He looked into her eyes and reassured her that he would always be there should she ever need to talk. Thinking she would break into tears, he was not surprised to see her coldly refuse his attention at that time and walk off without a reply.

Times had changed. Tessa no longer wanted people around or at least her actions gave that impression. Coming out to the cabin early was her idea and it was easy to see why she had very little to do with her time compared to before. She claimed she needed space to think … think about what … living in the past? This was so unlike her. It was like someone had pushed her into a wall and she didn’t want to talk about it or receive any sympathy because of it.

Jonathan had driven over 90 minutes from the local town where he’d left his plane and pilot but he wasn’t ready to tackle the return trip just yet. Besides, the plane needed some minor repairs and that couldn’t be done until the morning. This would give Jonathan some extra time for it was time that Tessa needed right now and he knew she wouldn’t mind him staying the night.

Jonathan followed Tessa into the kitchen and hoping to relax the atmosphere a bit, changed the topic of conversation,

The companions are looking well. Country life sure agrees with them.

With mention of that familiar word, the two dogs came to life again after napping at their posts. They trotted over to Jonathan for some attention as he kneeled down to pet them both. Pausing for a moment from filling the coffee cups, Tessa enjoyed watching the three wrestle each other on the floor.

They sure do remember you well enough. she remarked.

As she spoke the words, she remembered seeing this scene many times before. Even as pups, the two companions had an over abundance of love for Jonathan. He was never around them as much as other people but they seemed so secure in his company and knew he didn’t pose a threat to them or theirs.

The mother of the Bully was Tessa’s favourite friend that she had bred and the Rotty was a third generation of a pup that Jonathan received one Christmas. Catching her in a daydream Jonathan asked,

Will you be needing some wood in for the evening?

Dazed from the interruption, Tessa replied in spurts,

Ah…yes…I suppose so…if you’re spending the night … you’ll need the warmth on that couch.

Jonathan was not surprised at the answer but did have plans of changing her way of thinking in that respect. He hadn’t been with Tessa for almost a year and their past meetings were always touched with some romance. Shortly after receiving his kisses, he stood and walked to the front door with the companions on his heels. Tessa was still in the kitchen seeking out some cheese and sausage to go with the homemade buns on the counter. She took some butter from the fridge and set two plates out on the bar. Soon to arrive back inside was Jonathan and friends and a collection of sawdust and wood chips too. Tessa pointed towards the wood bin which had not moved since Jonathan’s last visit to the cabin, as she pushed the dogs back outside and went for a broom. After sweeping up, Tessa allowed entry to her companions through the sliding doors as Jonathan joined her in the kitchen for a light snack and hopefully more conversation.

It was both tasty and relaxing. Both talked of the city life and even laughed a little but nothing was said of the present day situation. Jonathan felt that Tessa wasn’t happy at all, even though she contributed to their chat and even coughed up a few jokes as well. At the same time, she had downed five cups of coffee, smoked seven cigarettes and even offered a glass of wine to Jonathan which he passed on until after dinner.

Sliding off his stool, Jonathan suggested they go for a stroll out back. Tessa nodded as she cleaned off the bar and the two of them did up the dishes.

Tessa wiped her hands on a towel and then fingered Jonathan to follow her as she suggested they go for a ride instead. She headed out the sliding door towards the generator shed as Jonathan closed the doors behind her and went to the front door where some sweaters were hanging. Taking them in hand he headed out towards the stables. He noticed the afternoon was fairly warm but the breeze from the woods and the stream made it very pleasurable for riding.

The horses were full of energy and raring to go. Equipped with only a bridle, Tessa took her half Arabian, half Morgan stallion, ‘Steamer’ as the companions followed her out of the paddock. Jonathan jumped on ‘Future’, a cream coloured Hackney, in the same manner as he took up the rear and trotted off up the hill behind the cabin. He watched with intent as he rode and was pleased to see Tessa enjoying herself. Maybe this was all she needed, he thought, company. Or perhaps she just needed something or someone to take her mind off things temporarily.

When they reached the top where the grass fields laid flat, they both paused for a minute and allowed the horses a few munches of the sweet grass and partook in the beauty of the valley below. There was the hay field in which they stood and then there were the two meadows on either side of the natural timber fence-line that protected the ravine far below. That is where they headed next. At the stream they dismounted and allowed the horses a drink and the companions a wet romp. Tessa propped herself under a willow tree with one hand clenching her reins she pulled a cigarette from her pocket with her free hand. Jonathan stretched himself on the ground near her feet and folded his arms under his head, releasing the reins of his mount. The day was so beautiful, the air so clean and fresh and the sounds of the geese returning home made the day even more like those heard of in fairy tales.

There was little conversation while they were away from the cabin. Mostly, the glances between them said it all. Good friends are worth having and the feeling one gets when one is confident that all the secrets in the world are safe, is comforting.

The peaceful time was abruptly interrupted when Cognac gave them a wet shake and with this, the two companions were once again called to follow as Tessa and Jonathan mounted up again. They raced the horses up and across the meadows when Tessa turned suddenly and darted for the ravine. She plunged Steamer through the icy water and up the other side. She had no problem handling the massive power beneath her and soon Jonathan was on her heels. The companions paralleled them through the underbrush and soon they were close to where they had started. It’s amazing how time flies when you’re having fun and this seemed way too soon to be true.

Dusk falls about seven thirty and the orange sky found the riders casually climbing the driveway back to the stable. After a quick rub down and settling the animals in for the night with fresh feed and bedding, the four of them headed to the cabin. On his way passed the wood pile, Jonathan gathered the sweaters that they hardly ever used and then turned to see Tessa picking some baby carrots that were barely 2 inches long. These would garnish the meat she had pulled out to thaw before they left.

Jonathan left the empty oat buckets at the front door, walked in and dropped himself onto the couch. He kicked off his boots and flipped his feet up as well. Entering in from the sliding doors, Tessa loudly called to him,

Would you go start the generator for me please? I think it needs some gas too. then went about preparing dinner.

Jonathan dragged himself out of his comfortable position to respond but didn’t bother putting his boots on again. As he opened the sliding doors to go out, he was greeted by some wet and muddy paws,

Do you want these two in, the way they are?

No! They can go in the mudroom until they dry off. Tessa replied as she turned to assess the reported damage. She then added,

Don’t you think you should have some boots on?

Nah … I’ll be fine … it’s not wet out. He answered self assuredly.

Although he managed to get the companions into the mud room without incident, the trek to the shed left him with his socks covered in needles. This made walking a little uncomfortable and the entry back into the cabin somewhat embarrassing. Slipping his socks off to give them a shake outside, Tessa saw the results of his endeavour,

I told you so. She exclaimed with a smirk on her face.

Jonathan returned to his comfy spot in the den as Tessa cleaned some vegetables in the sink. Looking out the window, she spotted a young deer hiding behind a cedar tree. It was almost in the exact spot a few years back, where she saw her first deer this close, but that one was caught in a snare.

Gregory had been the first to its rescue. Tessa soon appeared outdoors with some warm milk and honey, a couple of blankets and a first aid kit. Together Tessa and Gregory patched up the few scratches the poor little fellow had and then helped him to his feet and watched him bolt into the woods. For days afterwards, Tessa watched Gregory checking that particular spot every evening and leaving a handful of crumbs. He always did have a soft spot for the needy.

The thud of Jonathan placing a log on the fire made Tessa realize how cold the running water was. She scooped up the peeled potatoes and placed them in a pot on the stove for steaming. Jonathan appeared in the doorway and offered to help should she wish to rest a bit. Tessa appreciated the offer and nodded as she started another pot of coffee and then perched herself on a stool to watch Jonathan go to work. He wasn’t a bad cook, on the contrary, but he was out of practice. When the coffee was ready, Tessa poured herself a cup then returned with coffee and cigarette in hand to continue watching Jonathan finalize the meal.

Dinner was enjoyable and it was the first decent one Tessa had indulged in for quite some time. After completing their meal, Jonathan retired to the den to stoke up the fire as Tessa cleared away the counter and put the companions’ dinner together. Releasing the companions to go eat, she quickly swept up the floor in the mudroom, made a dash to the biffy, grabbed some wine glasses and then made her way to the den. With the crackling fire and the evening outside getting darker, Tessa and Jonathan curled up together and sipped their wine. The companions eventually nestled up on the hearth as the room gave off a rich glow of warmth.

Jonathan pondered how he could get to the point of his visit without ruining Tessa’s day. He placed his glass on the table and squeezed himself off the couch then walked over towards the desk. Leaning over all the paperwork, he switched on some music. Returning to his place on the couch, he questioned, Do you feel like talking now? then paused before continuing, I have to leave in the morning and I don’t know when I can come back.

Tessa was still cherishing her peaceful day and was reluctant to answer, but did,

Can we talk later … upstairs? Let’s enjoy what we have … here … now.

Tessa tucked her head into Jonathan’s shoulder as he slid an arm over her back. The silence was soon broken with the companions arising from their spots by the fire as Jonathan stroked Tessa’s long ash-brown hair and gently pulled it from her face,

Stay here … I’ll let them out, as he pulled himself away calling to the dogs.

Jonathan let the dogs out the front door and watched them saunter down the walkway. The night air was cooler now with a slight scent of dampness. All nature’s night voices were emerging as Jonathan saw the dogs romp off and into the darkness. Tessa soon joined him on the porch as she wrapped her arms around his waist from behind.

Care to sit on the step with me? she inquired.

Let’s just bring the kids in and go to bed, he replied giving her arms a squeeze.

They were both taking one last deep breath of the cool air when the companions came charging back into the cabin. Jonathan closed the door firmly and then twisted Tessa around and motioned with his head to go upstairs.

I’ll see to everything and be up in a minute, he said as he trekked off into the kitchen and out back.

As the companions curled up at the foot of the bed, Tessa undressed, lit the lamp and was crawling under her comforter just as Jonathan appeared in the loft. The lamp gave off just enough light for Tessa to see Jonathan’s silhouette move closer towards her. He was taking his time undressing, first with his socks, then pants and finally his shirt. He then reached over, cupped his hand and blew the lamp out. Lifting the comforter, he stepped into the bed, wrapping the comforter behind him and sliding over for a cuddle.

Jonathan had always been so inviting with his seductive mannerism and not easy to refuse. Tessa wanted some attention from someone she trusted and the mood was right, the place was perfect and the partner was gentle, willing and persuasive. A supple kiss on her nose and a warm body blanket, wrapped Tessa in heaven. She responded with much affection as if by habit and her senses were keen to every moment.

When they were married, their relationship was always imaginative and now the romance was even more exciting. There were no children, which was a mutual agreement but the practice of making children was all so … satisfying. Each had gone their own way with their own people but both found in one another the gratifying peacefulness that only true friendship could hold. No one was being used or had been used. ‘Favour’ was a word that neither would use nor felt they owed.

The hoot of an owl overhead in the tree outside got Jonathan to raise is head to look.

I believe we are being spied upon, he said with a smile, Our secret is out.

Tessa raised her arms above her head and rested them on her pillow and Jonathan took this as a signal that this part of the evening was at a close. He too, attained the same position on his pillow and glanced off into the night sky. Tessa rolled over to the outside, fluffed her pillow and tucked it under her chin. She turned back over her shoulder to see him gazing out the skylight and asked,

What went wrong Jonathan?

Wrong? he questionably replied, thinking she was referring to something he might have missed.

I mean … what happened … to lead to this?

Jonathan leaned forward and over her back, outstretching his arms on either side of her. He then bent closer and with sympathy, left a tender kiss on her shoulder. Getting no immediate response, he rolled back onto his pillow and propped himself up on his elbow. Tessa twisted to face him as she also pulled herself up and onto her elbow, placing her head in the palm of her hand, but said nothing. She was confused within herself and could only send Jonathan a puzzled look. Breaking the silence and with extreme curiosity, Jonathan asked,

What makes you feel something has gone wrong … other than what you’ve done to yourself?

I feel so empty … so alone sometimes … I have no ambition anymore to live life.

There was a pause in her speaking. She found it difficult to find the words to explain how she was feeling. Even if she had found the words, would he understand? Jonathan was patient and willing to just listen when Tessa finally sorted out her thoughts.

I remember … a time when nothing could get me down. I was ready and able to tackle all of life’s surprises. Now … that strength is gone and I don’t know what I did to lose it.

Tessa sat up in bed and huddled the comforter around her chest. She tightened her legs up to her body and wrapped her arms around them then rested her chin on her knees in thought.

What have you lost? Jonathan asked as he tried to understand. You have everything you want or need; your estate, your kennel, your horses … your retreat here … and dozens of people at your beckon call including lawyers and secretaries and the like … and you have me when you need me … I can’t see what you’ve lost, I’m sorry.

Something inside … she sighed.

It was frustrating not having someone to help her with her problem especially when she wasn’t even sure what it was herself. Tessa tried to elaborate further,

It’s like … a void opened up inside and it’s taking me away a bit at a time.

Jonathan had an idea of what this was all about and knew there wasn’t much he could do except ‘be there’ for her right now. He snuggled closer to her, placing himself in a fetal position around her. She gently responded as she stroked his back with one hand as if to give appreciation for his presence. Jonathan knew this was not enough but thought the touching of their souls this night, would guide hers in the right direction. Perhaps he could do more once he returned to the city.

Tessa slid down onto her back and turned her head to the outside. Jonathan moulded himself with her every move.

Perhaps the morning will see things differently, she quietly muttered.

There was a pause of silence before Jonathan added to her statement in a whisper,

I’m sure they will … one day.

But Tessa had fallen into a deaf sleep.

2

Flashbacks

Tessa awoke to the scent of fresh perked coffee and the wet nose of Bullit, in her face. Sprawling herself across the width of the bed, it soon dawned on her that Jonathan was up and preparing the lovely smells downstairs. She tossed the comforter off to the side, swung her legs out over the edge of the bed and gave herself a healthy, morning stretch. Looking up through the skylight to the sky above, her thoughts carried her back to the city.

The city sky that morning was a misty grey due to the immense amount of pollution and it would take hours before the sun could burn most of that away. Having slept in her clothes, Tesiwa was warmer this morning and noticed how early the bustling of the streets had started. Her stomach was also growling early so with that she bid the bag lady an appreciated farewell and trudged off to find food, some money and her father.

As she passed through the shadows of the old building onto the street, she dug into her bag and pulled out the picture of her father. It was old and wrinkled but it was all she had to help her identify him if and when she found him. He was alone in the photo, standing in a large cement-type doorway that had a signpost overhead but the corner of the picture was ripped so the wording on the sign could no longer be read to give its location. He was dressed in a suit with his hair trimmed close to his head and seemed very sleek looking. He held a thin suitcase in one hand and was waving a piece of paper with the other hand. The photo was black and white so his eyes and hair colour could not be known and even though her mother never spoke of him, she was sure she would recognize him if she ever met up with him.

Glancing down at the photo, she was not aware of where she was going and bumped into a tall, fair-haired man walking in the opposite direction. She hadn’t noticed that the encounter made her drop her picture as she apologized to the stranger and kept walking. After only a few steps, she heard a voice that loudly called to her,

Young lady … excuse me, young lady.

Her curiosity made her turn back only to see this same man swiftly walking towards her holding her photo in his hand. When he drew closer, she smiled in embarrassment and lowered her head. As he placed the photo in her bag he said,

You dropped this … better be careful if it’s important, then the man turned to continue his journey.

Tesiwa lifted her head and found herself raising her voice in response,

Thank-you, It is important to me.

Her eyes caught his helpful smile as he waved and then jogged down the street. Slightly shocked at having met such a nice person in the city, Tesiwa relaxed her posture and closed her eyes hoping to enjoy that feeling for a bit longer. Most people she met were rude and selfish and they would have shunned Tesiwa for what she was and where she came from. This was a new feeling; a feeling of importance, respect and being special.

Tessa opened her eyes to the banging of pots and pans in the kitchen but that feeling was still with her. She raised herself up and touched the ceiling then took a long look out the window. She saw that it was going to be another gorgeous day and wondered how to make it even better.

She made her way to the ensuite for a refreshing shower. After drying herself, she twisted her hair in the towel up on her head. She had a light fabric jumpsuit hanging in the closet and the blue flower pattern matched her eyes. She slipped it on, fastened the matching belt then slipped on a pair of white sandals. At her dresser, she removed the towel and shook off the excess water then glancing into the mirror, saw Bullit lying at the top of the stairs behind her. She smiled at his patience as she went about making the bed.

Cognac soon came loping up the stairs meeting Bullit and Tessa descending. Cognac did an about-face as Bullit joined her and they bounded down and toward the kitchen to announce their master’s entry.

Good morning, she said with a bright smile, keeping busy are you?

Jonathan was buzzing around putting the finishing touches to his home-cooked meal but found a moment in his madness to plant a quick smooch on Tessa’s nose, then carried on. Without skipping a beat, he handed Tessa a coffee, squeezed her arm and hurriedly guided her to a stool at the counter. Spreading his arms with pride, he announced,

Voila! Breakfast is served, Madam.

Tessa was enjoying the attention. Something she had not had in a long time but she felt scruffy not even having combed her hair yet. Jonathan didn’t seem to notice or care. Tessa then looked down at her companions and then quickly over at Jonathan but before she could say anything, Jonathan jumped in to say,

Don’t worry. They have been fed and so have all the other animals, including myself.

A naughty grin came over Jonathan’s latter inclusion to his statement and Tessa was quick to pick up on it as well as she let out a small chuckle. Jonathan went on to say, as he pointed to the bacon and omelet,

This is just for you, my sweet. Eat and be merry.

With that final word, he rushed off into the den only to return with Tessa’s cigarettes then he placed them on the counter and added,

For later … with your coffee.

Tessa cautiously picked up her fork for she thought that should she move too quickly, Jonathan might jump in with exuberance and try to help. Tessa sighed as Jonathan poured himself a coffee and seated himself across from her to watch her enjoy the meal. With every second bite, Tessa would run her fingers through her hair to keep it from dropping into her plate. As Jonathan watched her intently enjoying a nutritious meal, he recalled their first meeting:

At the age of twenty-one, Jonathan’s work had him attending many business parties that were hosted by companies his father had contracts with. Moving up to an executive position to eventually fill his father’s shoes, a pre-scheduled and full calendar was called for. He was expected to behave with the same sophistication and mannerisms of a thirty-five year old which he carried out with all the finesse of his father. It was at one of these events that he first laid eyes on Tessa.

She was a mature looking twenty year old, or so he thought. With the thickness of people in the room, Jonathan could only catch glimpses of her as she mingled through the crowd and then it was mostly from the neck up. She had ash brown hair that was tied up in a bun and held in place by a blue satin comb. Dark skinned with a long slender neck and from what Jonathan could tell, stood just over five and a half feet tall. When she finally glanced in his direction, he could have drowned in her deep sea-blue eyes that were framed by long, lush lashes and high cheek bones. She had a pearly white smile