Softened Moon's Glow: Collective Works

By Jon R. W. Thomas and Connie L. Valentine

A couple assumes that life will be routine, but are confronted by other world experiences that change them in ways that they never anticipated.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Feb 15, 2015
• ISBN: 9781312920873

Book preview

Softened Moon's Glow: Collective Works

Softened Moon's Glow: Collective Works

By Jon R. W. Thomas and Connie L. Valentine

Copyright

Softened Moon's Glow: Collective Works

Copyright © 2015 by Jon R. W. Thomas and Connie L. Valentine

Cover design by Jon R. W. Thomas

Book design by Jon R. W. Thomas

All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise including information storage and retrieval systems, without prior permission written permission from the authors. The only exception is by a reviewer, who may quote short excerpts in a review.

The information in this is distributed on an As Is basis without warranty. This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are either the products of the authors' imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental. The content also contains adult fiction and is suited for mature audiences only.

First Printing, February 2015

978-1-312-92087-3

Printed in the United States of America

Published by Miravenar

Forward and Acknowledgments

A young couple thinks they’ll live ordinary lives, but are confronted by other world experiences that change them forever!

The current series consists of several books: Softened Moon’s Glow, Softened Moon’s Glow: Return, Softened Moon’s Glow: After Glow, Softened Moon’s Glow: End of Innocence, and Softened Moon’s Glow: Transformations. Softened Moon’s Glow: Collective Works contains this complete series. The Softened Moon’s Glow series began with a simple e-mail sent on December 26, 2011 from Jon to Connie:

"With all his strength he walked to the shore where they had spent

time together. With each walk in the sand, the pain from remembering

her overwhelmed him. He longed for heaven - to see her face shine as

bright light. An image of her face provided some comfort but as he

looked along the shore, towards the area of beach they used to sit

he...

Connie and Jon met through a pen pal site several years ago. During their first conversations, they discovered that they both enjoyed creative writing and began to create short stories together. Recently, they teamed up to create Softened Moon's Glow, their first effort to write a book together.

Connie lives in Pennsylvania and currently works for a non-profit organization having graduated with a Master's Degree in Online Teaching and Training in September, 2012. She will be working on putting her degree to good use in the future. She is also writing other stories and poetry, and hopes to publish a duel blog shortly.

Jon, who earned a Ph.D. in Management Information Systems, works as a developer in an aerospace company in Southern California. In addition to writing, He composes music, draws, and enjoys travelling.

It was a great experience for us to come together to create this work of fiction. We hope you enjoy our book as much as we were delighted in creating its contents.

Softened Moon's Glow: Collective Works

Copyright

Forward and Acknowledgments

Chapter 1 – Recollections

Chapter 2 – What Once Was

Chapter 3 – Goodbye

Chapter 4 – New Adventures

Chapter 5 – Indecision

Chapter 6 – Something’s up

Chapter 7 – The Arrival

Chapter 8 – The Surprise

Chapter 9 – Disappearance

Chapter 10 – The Departure

Chapter 11 – A Fading Love

Chapter 12 - The Awakening

Chapter 13 - Seeing David again!

Chapter 14 – Another Time and Place

Chapter 15 – Their First Date since Paris

Chapter 16 – Their Day-After Glow

Chapter 17 – Abby’s Appointment

Chapter 18 – A Night In

Chapter 19 – A Sunday in September

Chapter 20 – Finding the Perfect Ring

Chapter 21 – Abby’s Strange Visitor

Chapter 22 – A Knock on the Door

Chapter 23 – Abby’s Grandmother’s Things

Chapter 24 – A Paycheck

Chapter 25 – A New Job for Abby

Chapter 26 – The Glowing Light

Chapter 27 – Life Continues

Chapter 28 – To Paris Again

Chapter 29 – French Food, and Fun

Chapter 30 – Wedding Plans

Chapter 31 – Packing Abby’s things

Chapter 32 – The Flight Home

Chapter 33 – Abby’s Airplane Crashes upon Landing

Chapter 34 – Saved

Chapter 35 – Abby Returns

Chapter 36 – The Colonel’s Questions

Chapter 37 – The Wedding Approaches

Chapter 38 – Wedding Day

Chapter 39 – Trip of a Lifetime

Chapter 40 – Bonding in Many Ways

Chapter 41 – Home Again

Return: Chapter 1 – A Disappearance

Return: Chapter 2 – Another Journey

Return: Chapter 3 – An Investigation Begins

Return: Chapter 4 – Another Moon

Return: Chapter 5 - New Homes

Return: Chapter 6 - Life on Earth

Return: Chapter 7 – Marston’s Secret

Return: Chapter 8 – Work Assignments

Return: Chapter 9 – All in a Day’s Work

Return: Chapter 10 – Another Trip to Earth

Return: Chapter 11 - Settling Down and Moving Forward

Return: Chapter 12 – Another Cloaked Trip to Earth!

Return: Chapter 13 - Annette Meets her Dream Man

Return: Chapter 14 – Work for Annette and Caroline

Return: Chapter 15 – A Relaxing Evening at Home

Return: Chapter 16 –David and Steven’s Friendship

Return: Chapter 17 – Abby and Caroline Discuss Charlie

Return: Chapter 18 – Caroline Talks to Marston

Return: Chapter 19 – Annette Searches for a Man

Return: Chapter 20 – Another Child, Designs, and Rohgoh’s Status

Return: Chapter 21 – Charlie’s Arrival

Return: Chapter 22 – Abby and Annette Chat

Return: Chapter 23 – Marston’s Attraction

Return: Chapter 24 – Annette Meets Her Heart’s Desire

Return: Chapter 25 – Charlie and Caroline Meet Again

Return: Chapter 26 – Marston’s Idea about Religion

Return: Chapter 27 – Everyone Welcomes Charlie

Return: Chapter 28 – Annette’s New Assignment

Return: Chapter 29 – A New Look for the Palace Main Hall

Return: Chapter 30 – Caroline and Charlie Care for Marston’s Nieces

Return: Chapter 31 – Annette’s Workplace

Return: Chapter 32 – Abby Visits the Midwife

Return: Chapter 33 – The Princess and Abby Secretly Meet

Return: Chapter 34 – Charlie Seeks Work

Return: Chapter 35 – Charlie Begins Working

Return: Chapter 36 – Charlie and Caroline Discuss Wedding Plans

Return: Chapter 37 – Lunch with David and Steven

Return: Chapter 38 – Marston’s Aides Return to Earth

Return: Chapter 39 – Wedding Plans are implemented

Return: Chapter 40 – Captain Baylor’s Condition

Return: Chapter 41 – Annette and Rohgoh Visit the Shore

Return: Chapter 42 – The Baylor and Anthony Dilemma

Return: Chapter 43 – Caroline and Charlie’s Wedding

Return: Chapter 44 – Delia is Assigned to Earth

Return: Chapter 45 – Abby and David’s Babies Arrive

Return: Chapter 46 – The Beginning or the End?

After Glow: Chapter 1 – A New Life on Earth

After Glow: Chapter 2 – The Pathway Closes

After Glow: Chapter 3 – A Baby for a Princess

After Glow: Chapter 4 – The Princess Visits the Medical Clinic

After Glow: Chapter 5 – Breakfast at Abby’s

After Glow: Chapter 6 – The Princess and Marston Talk

After Glow: Chapter 7 – Marston’s Touch, Abby’s Strange Response

After Glow: Chapter 8 – Characteristics of a Cloaked Island

After Glow: Chapter 9 – Marston Gift to Annette

After Glow: Chapter 10 – Annette’s Wish

After Glow: Chapter 11 – Discovered

After Glow: Chapter 12 – An Unexpected Visitor

After Glow: Chapter 13 – Abby Asks Marston about Spirituality

After Glow: Chapter 14 – Steven’s Visitor

After Glow: Chapter 15 – Annette Gives Erin a Tour

After Glow: Chapter 16 – Another world?

After Glow: Chapter 17 – Erin wants to depart

After Glow: Chapter 18 – Marston Talks to Rohgoh

After Glow: Chapter 19 – Erin Meets with Rohgoh

After Glow: Chapter 20 – David and Abby share Family Time

After Glow: Chapter 21– Marston Knows

After Glow: Chapter 22 – Annette Talks to Abby

After Glow: Chapter 23 – Preparation and Departure

After Glow: Chapter 24 – A New Star

After Glow: Chapter 25 – A Departing Princess

After Glow: Chapter 26 – Birth of a New Princess

After Glow: Chapter 27 – Visitors

After Glow: Chapter 28 – Goodbye

After Glow: Chapter 29 – A Return to Earth

End of innocence: Chapter 1: They Don’t Remember

End of innocence: Chapter 2: Elayah Appears Before Lahalah

End of innocence: Chapter 3: Erin Loans Her Body

End of innocence: Chapter 4: They’re Together

End of innocence: Chapter 5: Elayah Appears through Erin

End of innocence: Chapter 6: Erin and Annette Leave Rohgoh

End of innocence: Chapter 7: Lahalah Talks to Rohgoh

End of innocence: Chapter 8: Elayah Returns

End of innocence: Chapter 9: Ruled By Two

End of innocence: Chapter 10: Abby Visits Again

End of innocence: Chapter 11: Another Companion for Rohgoh?

End of innocence: Chapter 12:  Abby in Two Worlds

End of innocence: Chapter 13:  A Tale of Two

End of innocence: Chapter 14: A New Assistant

End of innocence: Chapter 15:  Should We Lie?

End of innocence: Chapter 16: A Juggling Act

End of innocence: Chapter 17: Unexpected Changes

End of innocence: Chapter 18: Elayah and Lahalah Talk

End of innocence: Chapter 19:  An Unhappy Return

End of innocence: Chapter 20: All about Katie

End of innocence: Chapter 21: Elayah Joins Abby's Family

End of innocence: Chapter 22: Katie Joins Abby's Family

End of innocence: Chapter 23: Lahalah Joins Abby's Family

End of innocence: Chapter 24: The Plan

End of innocence: Chapter 25: Lahalah’s Children

End of innocence: Chapter 26: Changes Begin

End of innocence: Chapter 27: A New Earth

End of innocence: Chapter 28: An End to a Beginning

End of innocence: Chapter 29: Tey-mah-nee Trains Katie

End of innocence: Chapter 30: Concern for Katie

End of innocence: Chapter 31: Where Did Katie Go?

End of innocence: Chapter 32: Regrets?

Transformations: Chapter 1: Katie Lives?

Transformations: Chapter 2: Katie and Tey-mah-nee Connect

Transformations: Chapter 3: Abby and Katie Talk

Transformations: Chapter 4: Visiting Mother

Transformations: Chapter 5: Women and their Men

Transformations: Chapter 6: Katie and Tey-mah-nee Conceive

Transformations: Chapter 7: Annette and Erin’s Request

Transformations: Chapter 8: Work is not Always Easy

Transformations: Chapter 9: Annette is reassigned and confined

Transformations: Chapter 10: Annette Leaves Erin and Rohgoh

Transformations: Chapter 11: Another Visit with Mother

Transformations: Chapter 12: Training Day

Transformations: Chapter 13: Ruling Worlds is Not Easy

Transformations: Chapter 14: Katie Contacts Erin

Transformations: Chapter 15: Annette Confronts Erin

Transformations: Chapter 16: Elayah visits Steven

Transformations: Chapter 17: Complications?

Transformations: Chapter 18: Another Dinner?

Transformations: Chapter 19: Katie’s ill

Transformations: Chapter 20: Abby Rant

Transformations: Chapter 21: Annette’s Rehabilitation

Transformations: Chapter 22: A Hug and a Kiss

Transformations: Chapter 23: Tey-mah-nee and Katie’s Daughters

Transformations: Chapter 24: Erin, Annette, and Rohgoh Again?

Transformations: Chapter 25: Lahalah’s Response

Transformations: Chapter 26: Annette, Really?

Transformations: Chapter 27: A Full House

Transformations: Chapter 28: A New Concern

Transformations: Chapter 29: Caroline Talks with Annette and Erin

Transformations: Chapter 30: More than One …

Transformations: Chapter 31: Where is she?

Transformations: Chapter 32: Change for the Earthlings

Transformations: Chapter 33: An Unexpected Ending

Transformations: Chapter 34: The Moon’s Glow

Appendix I

Kaaheymeyah

Differences between Earthlings and Kaaheymeyahians

The Kaaheymeyahian Language

Nouns

Numbers

Plural

Possession Usage

Names

Language Character Symbols

Kaaheymeyahian Religions

The Kaaheymeyahian Caste System

Units of Measure

Distance

Weight

Temperature

Liquid

Duration

Food

Fashion

Introducing Lahalah

Lahalah’s Childhood, Experimentation, and Earthlings

Lahalah’s Family

Lahalah’s Legacy and Abilities

Lahalah and Her Relationships

Mental Blocks

Appendix II – Stories about Lahalah

The First Encounter

Fear or Love Her?

Hymns and Songs

About Life and Death

Desirability

Lahalah Eliminates all Kaaheymeyahian Males

Lahalah Transforms Male Earthlings

References

Chapter 1 – Recollections

Although the crash happened months ago, the loss of Abby was as fresh to him as his memory of her. Images of a night sky brightened by the flames of an incoming aircraft competed with a current view of a softened moon’s glow penetrating through a brisk winter sky. He slowly walked away from the sounds of gentle waves that lapped the shore, leaving his hope and dreams behind in the sand. He remembered her face - soft, smooth skin, her brown eyes with a deep clarity, the smile of her eyes and face as she greeted him. Abby's childlike happiness lingered in his thoughts and plagued him with bittersweet memories. The images of an airplane descending on a runaway without any landing gear with engines inflamed entered his mind, making him think thoughts that he could never erase from his memory. How could he forget what happened? Could he ever forget her and move on with his life?

He thought of a time long ago. He met her years before when they were both in their early years of college. They attended the Massachusetts College of Art and Design. He was going to become an architect, and she wanted to become a famous fashion designer. They had an immediate connection with each other that neither one could understand nor explain. They had their fling for a while, but career choices, plans and growing up had parted them long before they were ready.

Years later, by accident, they met again and their attachment and attraction for each other were still alive and well. They dated as much as possible, both carrying on with their careers and thinking of a future together. She was a fashion designer forging a career in Paris and was on her way home with her mother’s assistant, Annette. She was there handling some unfinished business and was returning home to David and their life. The plane crashed on landing as family and friends watched from the airport lounge while awaiting their loved one’s arrival. Those horrible images were forever etched in his memory.

Now, walking on the shore where he had last seen her, he remembered their plans for a future, their plans of having a home and children. No one really knew, but she had a surprise for him upon her return. At her funeral, he was told by Abby’s mother that she was pregnant and had big plans to tell him when she got home. Caroline told no one else, holding this special memory close to her heart; just as he would…

He would miss her and the future they might have had together. What did he do now? How could he just go back to his job? Could he forget and move on with his life as he knew she would want for him?

Chapter 2 – What Once Was

Abby and David first met at Ill Mondo Pizzeria on Huntington Avenue southeast of the college and Longwood Avenue. Both sitting alone at separate tables, David continued to glance at Abigail noticing first her soft, flowing, brown hair with blondish tints. They kept sneaking glimpses of each other while the other was not looking. However, they both were caught a time or two, sneaking a shy little peek. This went on for a week or two, and then they found themselves at the counter ordering lunch at the same time. David had finally gotten up the nerve to ask her what her name was if she attended the nearby college.

She said, Yes, I do! My name is Abigail, Abby for short. By the time their orders were ready, they were seated at the same table, chatting as if they had known each other for years.

Over the next few weeks, they sat together at lunch as often as possible and talked about their career choices, families, college and so on. One day, before leaving to go back to class, David asked Abby if she would like to go to a movie sometime.

How sweet, David! Abby said.

While smiling, she blushed as she gently placed her right hand on his shoulder. Griped with the same initial anxiety, David wondered if he made a mistake asking her out, but quickly forgot about his discomfort.

Time passed quickly as the couple soon became overwhelmed with coursework and devoted any free time exploring their new relationship. Both recognized how important they had become to each other and how serious their relationship became in such a short time. Fortunately, both were graduating at the same time, so planning a life together would be simplified. However, both had part time jobs and student loans to pay off. Both acknowledged their desire for each other, however, both also agreed to wait for more stability before marrying.

Since student loans and living expenses were high, they had to be careful about where they chose to live. They wanted a warm and cozy place that told the world, Hey; this apartment is us! They reviewed newspapers, fliers and the Internet listings for the right place – their perfect place. Their plan was to wait until after graduation to move, but if something just right became available before, they were willing to consider it.

Unexpected events can change plans in an instant, but both willing to be flexible and instantaneous as needed. They chose to live in North Quincy, which is just south of Boston, but before they moved their circumstances drastically changed. Both planned to find jobs nearby and to consider further schooling in order to increase their financial gain as the years went by, but offers came in quickly for both, offers that would take each to different continents. David landed a fulltime position in Boston and decided to move to North Quincy anyway.

After much discussion, tears and frustration, they decided that Abby could not turn down the offer in Paris at the Insititutomarinare where she would get her Master’s Degree in Fashion Design. She planned to depart a mere two weeks after graduation. The couple indicated that they would keep in touch often, visiting when able and keeping their love and their long distance relationship alive and well, but their plans did not work out as they wished.

Chapter 3 – Goodbye

As months passed, it was more difficult from them to stay in touch and remain a ‘couple’, but both tried. The decision was tough, but both knew that they could not continue like this anymore. Abby’s heart was torn between her creative passions and her desire to be with David. David was also torn between the requirements of his profession and his desire for Abby.

It was the most difficult phone call that she ever made. She wondered how he would respond as she waited. He did not answer so she left a simple message: David, I need to speak to you. Can you call me back as soon as possible on my cell? Waiting for his returned call was the hardest thing that she had ever had to do, but not nearly as difficult as telling David that they had to break up for their benefit as well as for their careers.

David knew even before he returned Abby’s call that it was not going to be a pleasant or romantic phone call. He had his own battles with the same issues in his mind and heart for weeks. He hated thinking of breaking up with Abby, but knew it was for the best and that they both needed to put all their time and energy into their schooling and careers. Therefore, as he returned the call they both cried and said that they would stay in touch, as friends and that maybe someday they could be together again. Both of them, doubted these words, but felt compelled to say them anyway.

I love you were the last words that David heard from Abby that night. As he placed the phone down on the table, he closed his eyes and recalled Abby’s smile, the softness of her skin and her long hair resting on her shoulders. Deeply, he felt an intense pain gripping his chest as tears began to flow.

Abby recalled the silence around her wondering if she would ever hear from him again. She thought that it was common for lovers to claim as their last wishes to remain as friends. Could it be possible for her to remain friends with one she longs for so deeply? Did she truly want to move on without the hope that David would be by her side? Did she just speak words when they discussed breaking up? She asked herself if she was truthful, and then she thought about how her career could be more important than he could – wondering could, What was I thinking? She knew the answer to that question. She thought with her brain and not her heart, but when did she ever have a handle on this? She realized that sometimes, the heart must wait.

Even though they hated the idea of breaking up and moving on without each other, their relationship changed. Time passed with fewer letters, phone calls, and emails exchanged. They moved on, even though they still longed for each other and they began to see others. First at work, then in friendships and group outings, and then, they had starting dating

Chapter 4 – New Adventures

Abby started dating Mike, an American, working in the IT department at the Insititutomarinare where she was studying. They first met when Abby stopped at the computer help desk because the laptop that she was using would not boot up. Mike Jensen, a dark haired, brown eyed man in his early thirties, appeared on the scene to help her.

Mike, originally from New Jersey, was assigned to work at the Institute through a subcontractor. As if to be more concerned about the computer than her, he said, Hi let me take a look at that for you!

At first, she felt uncomfortable with his friendliness, but as she recognized his ability to resolve the issue quickly, she forgot her wariness and was impressed.

Smiling and with some embarrassment she said, You’re so good responding with a quick fix! He smiled back at her with eye contact for the first time. She recognized that his eyes looked just like David's, and suddenly she felt sadness.

Mike, recognizing that her disposition changed seriously inquired, Are you alright?

She responded, I… sorry; I am all right! I was just thinking of something else. Thanks again for fixing my computer. They talked a little more about computers and the weather, and then they said their goodbyes.

Before she departed, Mike asked, Hey, Abigail, would you like to go out some night?

Abby paused while looking at him shyly and responded, Sure, give me a call! Mike, you can call me Abby! After all, he had her telephone number and address on the work order for her computer, so why not, she thought.

As Abby left that day, she thought once again of David and wondered what he was up to and how he was doing. She wondered if he was seeing anyone, but then pushed aside the pain of missing him and went home to work on her assignment. She looked forward to hearing from Mike and hoped that it would not be too long until he called her for a date.

A few days later, Abby found a message from Mike on her answering machine asking her out to dinner on Friday night if she was free. He left his number and said that he would be home from work after five o'clock. She called right away, figuring it would be easier to leave a message on his machine than to talk to him. She told him, Yes, I would like to go out for dinner. Please call back with the details.  

When Mike called her around 6 o’clock, she waited for several rings to answer because she felt reluctant. She pondered if she was ready to date again, but then she realized that seconds were slipping away so she quickly picked up the phone.

Hi Abigail, this is Mike! he responded.

Oh, you can call me Abby, she responded while contemplating her next thoughts and awaiting his response.

So…are you free this Friday around 7 pm? Mike quickly responded.

She let him know that she was available and mentioned that she would wait for him out front. After the call, she asked herself, What am I doing…gosh, I’m anxious!

Then the phone rang again. She noticed on the caller ID that the call came from David. She thought to herself as she picked up the phone to answer, God, are you trying to mess with me?

David said, Hello, I, ah - Abby, for some reason, I felt the need to call you, but I am not sure why. Is everything all right? How is everything going?

He seemed stumble over his words, wanting to say so much more, but fearing that he no longer had the right to ask her about her life. They talked for a while, discussing events in their lives, neither one wanting to admit that they moved on to some degree without the other.   

Suddenly, David said, Abby, I have to go to an appointment. We’ll talk soon! Goodbye. She stood staring at the phone as if it could bite her, thinking to herself, Now what was that all about?

Abby felt unnerved by David’s call and did not know what to make of it. Unexpectedly, he called, just when she agreed to go out with Mike. How did he know, how could David sense her circumstances from so many miles away and somehow know that she was finally getting up the nerve to go out again on a date?

She looked forward to spending time with Mike again, but the call from David really rattled her. She told Mike that they were going out as friends, but did he really believe her? Did she really believe this herself, especially after talking to David and hearing the longing and love that were still in his voice? Why did she feel so guilty? Now, what should she do?

Feeling unsettled, Abby decided to go out for a walk. There is a park near her flat with beautiful stone paths and ancient walls. She often walked there when she had a lot on her mind. This was one of those times that she needed to reflect.

Chapter 5 – Indecision

Abby did not know what David was really doing. The real reason why David had hung up the phone so quickly was that he had received a call on his other phone from Barbara, a friend of a coworker who he had met when several of them went out for drinks. Barbara loved to laugh and joke around. In addition to her long, soft light brown hair, big brown eyes, and nice figure, David was attracted to her attitude, humor, and smile. They immediately hit it off. David felt a sense of relief when conversing with her and felt so much at ease that he boldly asked for her phone number within an hour of meeting her.

David had just come back from meeting Barbara when he had decided to call Abby. He felt guilty for enjoying his time with her. He was not ready to accept that he had let go of Abby and wanted to hear her voice and believe that there was some type of bond between them. Barbara had called David because she had left her jacket at the restaurant, and David had brought it to his home. Although David wanted to talk to Abby more, his attachment to her had diminished and his focus was now towards his new interest – Barbara.

David appreciated Barbara’s easy going approach to life. She seemed to be comfortable in her own body and truly liked herself, which he thought was a rare quality. Her personality was revealed in the way that people acted when she was around them. She was friendly, out-going and funny, which helped others feel at ease. At this point in his life, David needed this type of relationship.

Barbara appreciated that David liked her for herself and not just for her appearance. He appreciated her mind and her sense of humor, and having a great body was a plus. They got along great, and it would be interesting to see where the relationship went especially since Barbara knew all about the girl he left behind. David told her all about Abby one night, after too many drinks and too little sleep. She understood his need for honesty and appreciated it at the same time. She also found it endearing to think that David was thinking along the lines that honesty was necessary in a new relationship.               

Barbara remembered their first date together and smiled. She knew that David wanted to kiss her good night, but he held off kissing here possibly because he did not want to seem to forward. She thought in the back of her mind that maybe it pertained to Abby, but she pushed that thought out of her mind. She looked forward to see him again. She loved making him laugh and smile. 

Chapter 6 – Something’s up

Abby's mother, Caroline, rarely called anyone outside of the immediate family because she was quite reserved. Anytime David visited her mother’s house, he felt uncomfortable talking to her, feeling as if he were constantly being judged. Truthfully, she was just not a good communicator. David was surprised to hear her voice when he picked up the phone. The message was sobering. Abby was in an accident.

Abby was on her way home from the Institute when she was rear ended by a driver talking on his cell phone. Nothing was broken, but Abby suffered a serious concussion. She was monitored by the medical staff while tests (CAT scans, EEG, etc.) were being done. Progressively, Abby became more aware of her surroundings, but failed to remember details from the accident. When she awoke initially, she was confused and then asked for David.

She asked, Where is David? Why isn’t he here with me? Abby’s mother was taken aback; Abby still believed that she and David were together. For her daughter’s sake, Abby’s mother hoped that the confusion would be resolved soon. Caroline called David and mentioned that she would inform him of any changes in Abby’s condition and asked if he wanted to be updated.

He told her, Of course, I do. Abby and I may not be together anymore, but I still care for her very much.

Several hours later, a very worried Caroline called again. Abby was awake, confused and still asking for David. She hoped that he could visit Abby because Abby was hysterical, and the doctors wanted to keep her calm. Members of the medical staff thought that David could help Abby at least until her memory returned. David told Caroline that he would depart for Paris immediately.

Before departing David called Barbara and said, You know the woman I told you about – Abby – the one I dated? She had a serious accident and lost her memory. Her mother asked me to help her. Do you mind?

With a brief sigh, she told him, Oh, how dreadful. I am so sorry to hear this David. By all means, go, but how long do you think you will be there?

I plan to spend a few days, but if needed, I can take a week off from work, David replied.

Keep in touch, David. I’ll miss you, she responded.

I will, Barbara! Don’t worry! David said, as he walked out of the door to his home.

Chapter 7 – The Arrival

The Charles de Gaulle Airport was crowded, and David was stressed. Hôpital Je Pov seemed so far away while traveling through Paris on the A86. David approached the door of Abby’s room and glanced in the door. She lay so still, it appeared as if she were dreaming; a smile crossed her face as her eyes flickered beneath her lids. He wondered what she was dreaming about and hoped that it was good. It was nice to see Abby without her mother in the room, and since it was lunchtime, he figured that Caroline went to the cafeteria. He sat in the chair beside Abby’s bed for quite some time. When Abby’s Mom walked in the door, she pointed that she wanted to talk to him outside.

Abby has been out of it for most of the day. She is doing better, staying awake a little more each time, but her memory is still fuzzy in many ways. Please, do not upset her, David! Caroline said.

I have no intention of upsetting her, Caroline. I came all this way to help, not to cause problems for Abby, frustrated and upset with Caroline, David walked away from her and went back into Abby’s room to wait until she awoke.

Caroline silently moved into the room taking the other chair across the room, eyeing David with contempt in her eyes. David could never understand why Abby’s mother treated him this way. He guessed that maybe one day he might figure it out, but until then, other things were more important to him.

In the middle of the afternoon, Abby’s doctor entered the room to examine her. Both David and her mother stepped out to give Abby and her doctor privacy. Caroline walked to the nurse’s station, and David excused himself to check his cell phone for messages.

He called Barbara and asked, How are you? I just wanted to let you know that I arrived safely and that I wanted to check in with you. So far, there is no change in Abby’s condition.

I’m alright, but I miss you. David, I am worried about you being there with Abby. What happens if you decide you still love her? What happens to us then? she asked with a trembling voice.

David experienced this kind of seriousness with Barbara before. Although they only dated a month, he thought that he knew the range of her feelings. She was always positive, cheerful, acting as if nothing could faze her. Now, her words faltered and she trembled filled with worry and fear that their relationship would end.

After a pause, David exclaimed, Barbara, I am not thinking about love right now. Abby - is at risk. I’m not thinking about whether or not I’ll be with her in the future.

I’m sorry to mention this and I should not have exposed my insecurities to you at this time. David, I’ll hang up now and contact you later, Barbara responded filled with regret, realizing that she may have pushed David away for appearing insecure.

After the conversation she thought to herself, Perhaps, I need to lower my expectations. After all, they only recently broke up and they still love each other. In fact, they would have stayed together if Abby did not go to school in Paris. It was not like there was something wrong with their relationship. I better back off before I get hurt. What am I thinking?

Barbara decided she needed to calm down, so she put on her coat and went for a walk. After a half hour of walking, she felt calmer and thought again, about how she ended the phone call with David. She regretted what she said, but she realized that she spoke in the heat of the moment and hoped that David would understand how stressed and worried she is.

David decided after his conversation with Barbara that he also needed                                                                      time to think, so he walked to the cafeteria for an early dinner. He also needed to put space between him and Abby’s mother whose worrying was only making her act more anti-social towards him. He hoped on his return to Abby’s room that she may awaken and be able to talk. He wanted to talk to her and access the situation himself before deciding to stay in Paris or returning home. If Abby needed him, he would stay, but if not, he would be on the first airplane back.

Chapter 8 – The Surprise

As Abby opened her eyes, with David fixating his eyes on Abby, he anticipated her reaction to his presence, but wasn’t sure if he would be welcomed or rejected.

Oh…uhhh…where am I…my head…Oh my head! she said with the sensory pain associated with tense facial muscles and sweat on her forehead. David slowly and gently wiped her head with a cold towel.

Who…who are you? she inquired, as he placed the towel on the table near the front of her bed. Fear griped him as he reviewed her vocalization.

Abby … Abby? It is I, David! I came all the way from the States to be by your side, David said hoping that there would be some acknowledgment of his identity from her.

I don’t know you, sir. Where’s the nurse? Get the nurse! I’m hungry, she exclaimed, as if she were a child wanting candy without a thought of who was in the room with her. Speechless, David did not know how to evaluate Abby’s lack of memory and her inability to identify him.

Don’t worry, I’ll find your doctor. I’m sure that you can be given food also! he stated, as he departed the room to obtain medical assistance for Abby. He wondered where Abby’s mother was and whether she knew of Abby’s current condition. However, he was happy that Abby awoke.

David paced outside Abby’s door for a long time waiting to hear from the doctor about Abby’s condition. He wondered where Caroline was and why she was absent. Since David was not related to Abby, the doctor could not disclose the details of Abby’s condition to him. This disappointed him, but he had no choice. He had to wait for Caroline to return and have her explain Abby’s condition to him.

He stopped by the nurse’s station and asked, Do you know where Abby’s mother is right now?

The nurse replied, She had to take care of things at home and said that she would return later this afternoon. If Abby encounters complications, we were to call her!

After thanking the nurse for the update, he decided go to the hospital cafeteria for coffee and a sandwich and to kill time waiting for Caroline. He also decided to call Barbara because he felt unsettled from their last conversation.

As he called, Barbara’s voice mail responded, so he decided to leave the following message:

Barbara, this is David. I’m calling to find out how you are doing. Abby is conscious, but has amnesia. She does not know who I am. Please call!

David then stood up and departed the cafeteria to walk outside. He recognized that he was shocked by what had transpired with Abby. It was something he did not anticipate. While reflecting, he inadvertently walked near Caroline who just arrived.

David, what’s going on with Abby? I received a message from the hospital indicating that I needed to contact the doctor regarding Abby’s condition, Caroline exclaimed, as she rushed to his side.

Oh, you don’t know? Abby was fine the other day until I returned this morning – Now, she does not recognize me! David sighed.

Oh, Dear! I am so sorry to hear that. Does she recognize anyone? Caroline asked, as she moved closer to him.

I don’t think so. David responded with his head down. For now, he was depressed. They both walked back to Abby’s room.

Immediately, as Caroline entered the room she shouted out, Abby! Expecting her daughter to recognize her, she was disappointed by her response: Who are you?

As she sat by her, Caroline grabbed Abby’s right hand, but Abby quickly pulled her hand away from her and frowned like a little school girl who was told she could not play. With her head bent down avoiding all eye contact, she began to mumble to herself. Her words, barely audible, seemed confusing and melodic.

Dr. Eustache invited Caroline into his office. She met him once before – a short man with a wide chest and gray sideburns looked like he could be anyone’s grandparent. Dr. Eustache was cordial and inviting with the special ability to put others at ease. However, in this moment together with Caroline, he was serious.

Doctor, what happened to my daughter? Caroline inquired.

With faltering English, he proceeded to say, We don’t know! Even though she was injured, we did not find any abnormality in her brain and have not discovered any other symptoms in her body that could contribute to her current condition.

Is there any treatment for this? Caroline inquired.

Since we don’t know what is wrong we don’t know what to treat, he replied.

Feeling desponded; Caroline departed confused.

Chapter 9 – Disappearance

Abby’s condition grew worse. She started to forget what she was doing and she could not remember what she did just a minute prior. Additionally, she could not focus nor articulate the simplest of words. She was not aware of her own presence. David and Caroline wondered how this could this happen to someone without physical symptoms.

David was uncertain how long he should stay. He received a call from work and had been asked to return within the next few days. With a heavy heart, he went to find Caroline to tell her that he had to leave taking the first flight home. He also asked Caroline to keep him informed of Abby’s condition and let him know if he could do anything else in order to help with Abby’s recovery.

As David departed, Caroline said, I understand, David. I know that we have not seen eye to eye about a lot of things, but we both love Abby and that is what counts. I’ll call if there’s new news. Please stay in touch as well!

After scheduling his flight, he called Barbara telling her about Abby and his flight arrangements. Barbara answered on the third ring.

Hello! David, I am so glad to hear from you. How are things? I apologize for getting upset the last time we talked. I was stressed by the situation, but I understand why you needed to help Abby.

David replied, Thanks, Barbara. Abby’s condition is worse. I’ll be home sometime late tomorrow night. I’ll explain everything to you then.

No problem, David. Would you like me to pick you up at the airport? Just let me know when, and I’ll be there. I miss you! See you soon, goodbye, David, Barbara said.

Goodbye, Barbara. See you soon, David replied, as he heard the click of the disconnected phone.

Leaving Paris and Abby was emotional for David, but he was glad that he was returning home. He wondered if Abby was truly a part of his past, or if she would reappear in his future, for he recognized that he had not let go of her. He missed her smile and her presence. Spending time with her recently brought back a flood of welcome memories of their time together. However, even though he saw her body, her heart and essence were not present. This saddened him deeply.

The flight home was uneventful and long. As he entered the car, Barbara’s smile shortly erased David’s anxiety.

Well, it’s been long enough, Barbara, responded playfully, knowing that he must be tired, but she risked humor to take the edge off their visit.

How are you doing? she asked, as she seriously noticed as they were leaving the airport that he was looking out the window of the car and not at her.

He then turned towards her and said, I’m drained, exhausted, and glad to be home!

What, you didn’t miss me! I didn’t hear my name mentioned! she responded jokingly, but with a tad of seriousness that she hoped she effectively concealed from him.

After a pause, David said as he looked her way, Barbara, thanks so much for being a support. I know that you really care for me.

David, it has been hard on me, she stated briefly, as she turned towards him, but then continued talking as she looked ahead.

I’ve grown very fond of you. It was very difficult to be away from you knowing that you were with Abby. That was very painful, she responded with reluctance and hesitation. She also wondered if he had noticed her pain by her choice of words and vocal inflections. She was afraid that he would change his mind and leave her. She was worried that their love was still too new and fragile, so much, so that it would easily be broken apart.

As she pulled up near his home in North Quincy, she asked if she could stay. He consented. David’s home, which is an unassuming place with two bedrooms that has just a few steps to the door, has room for some sparse vegetation in his yard. It is off Hancock Street, which is a main thoroughfare through North Quincy. As the door closed, Barbara felt safe from the effects of the outside world. However, as she began to talk to him, she noticed that he seemed distant.

After some small talk, a cup of tea, and some cookies she said, Oh, it must have been so hard for you!

David burst into tears and said, I am so worried about Abby. I know that she is not your favorite subject, but she and I have a long history, and she still means a great deal to me. I am not sure that she will recover from this mental state.

I know, David. I understand that you still care about Abby. I am not a heartless person, but I’m worried about us! I’m trying to remain patient and understanding, David, but I have limits, Barbara said emphatically.

I know, point taken, Barbara! David exclaimed.

I need to get some sleep, Barbara, so I think that I’ll go to bed for the night. Can I call you at home when I get up tomorrow morning, maybe we can plan to do something together? he asked Barbara.

Disappointedly she replied, Sure, I have some things at home to do. I’ll talk to you later. Sweet dreams, David!

Chapter 10 – The Departure

The next morning when David awoke, he felt much better. Having sleep well for the first time in days, he felt confident enough to deal with what was happening in his life; Abby’s condition, Barbara’s worry, and his work. On this Sunday he called Barbara at noon.

Hello, Barbara, how are you doing? he asked. I feel much better this morning now that I got some much needed sleep! Would you like to do something this afternoon, maybe a movie and dinner?

That sounds good, David. However, I have been doing some thinking about us. We really need to talk. What time may I expect you to pick me up? she said.

I’ll be over in about an hour or so if that is all right with you. he said.

Sure, David, I’ll see you then! she said.

After picking up Barbara from her home, they stopped by Duncan Donuts on Washington St. in Braintree, which was not far from the AMC Theatres on Hwy 93. They were planning to see a movie, but decided that they would talk instead. It was difficult for them to enjoy each other’s company when faced with unsettled concerns regarding their relationship. 

You know, David; this situation is affecting me more than I thought. I’m starting to think it is best to back off, she exclaimed while taking a small bite out of an Apple Crumb donut.

David, feeling suddenly depressed, could not help noticing the falling crumbs from her donut and thinking, of how they reflect the relationship that appears to be falling apart.

That’s a real jump. I thought things were good enough between us under the circumstances. Are you sure you want to back off now? he asked Barbara.

I’m sorry David. I just cannot do this anymore. Yes, I think its best. I think maybe that we should give ourselves a month or so without contact and then see what happens next, she responded.

Well, why don’t I just take you home? David responded, feeling as if he exhausted all hope and wondering what, in particular, he had done wrong.

It did not make any sense to him that she would be so understanding and accommodating one minute and then suddenly change her perception and disposition the next. He was not going to plead or question her, for he was too tired and had doubts about the relationship as well, but not to the point of not wanting to continue. It truly surprised him, when she said that she thought we needed one month apart, and somehow he knew that her words meant that the relationship was over. He went through this scenario before and knew the result. He felt sadness, but knew that he would survive.

Chapter 11 – A Fading Love

Mike tried contacting Abby several times by telephone, but her phone was turned off. He asked around school, but no students knew her of whereabouts. Asking her primary teacher did not help either, for the teacher told him that he was not permitted to talk about personal student matters. Responses were similar from the admissions’ office and other school personnel.

Could something have happened to her…where could she be? he asked himself.

Two weeks passed since her disappearance. Since Mike knew that personnel at the school knew something about her, he did not feel compelled to report her missing. No one seemed worried about her, so why should he be worried? If anything was wrong, they would have already contacted her mother and authorities.

Over the past several weeks, he visited the places that he and Abby went to on their dates, but no one knew where Abby was. Therefore, feeling bored and unloved, he started talking to other women and noticed a few very attractive ones who he thought just might help erase the memory of Abby. Slowly, he began to forget her and date other women.

Mike had always been somewhat fickle around women, once the chase was over; he moved onto the next one down the line. One could call him a womanizer, but Mike had a huge heart and never intentionally hurt anyone. He hoped that Abby was all right, but he figured if she moved on, so would he.   

Chapter 12 - The Awakening

Caroline fell asleep in the chair by Abby’s bed. The nurse checked on Abby in the morning.

She should be waking up, get the doctor, the nurse commanded the attendant who brought Abby’s breakfast. Caroline awoke to the nurse’s stern, loud voice. At first, she thought that she dreamt that the doctor cured her daughter.

The nurse then told her, Caroline, I think that Abby slipped back into a coma. She is not waking up! I have paged Dr. Eustache to come to Abby’s room immediately!

About a half hour later, Dr. Eustache sat down beside Caroline and said, There’s nothing more that we can do for her. There is no physical source for her condition. However, although she can be released, she will need continued care at home. I'm sorry.

Caroline suspected that this would happen. She thought about what to do and decided to take Abby back to Boston to live with her. For her care, she would hire an in house aid to take care of her. The doctor mentioned that she could be released from the hospital in a matter of days. Feeling tired, Caroline decided to go back to the hotel and not think about the