The Twin Mirrors

By J. Lennington

Rachel Walters thought she had everything she ever wanted until it all came crashing down around her. It had to be The Pickett Curse. Nana and her family were cursed by her twin sister, Carrie, to live unhappy lives before Carrie hung herself in the barn. Rachel believed in the curse until she gazed into Carries wedding mirror at the reflection of Nana in an identical mirror built for Nana on her wedding day. Rachel suddenly found herself in The Valley of the Dead Trees when Nana and Carrie were mere children. Rachel was soon to learn that all was not as she had been led to believe.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: May 8, 2013
• ISBN: 9781483637006

J. Lennington

About the Author The Innkeeper is Judy Lennington’s twelfth novel to date. She grew up listening to stories told by her father and grandfather and hopes to keep the tradition alive by sharing her stories with others.

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Copyright © 2013 by J. Lennington.

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

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

Rev. date: 05/06/2013

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CONTENTS

GOING HOME

I MUST BE DREAMING

WAKING UP IN THE VALLEY OF DEAD TREES

FINDING A NEW HOME

NEW FACES

THE AWAKENING

THIS SIDE OF THE CREEK

TOWN

A COLD WINTER

HOME ONCE AGAIN

SAYING GOODBYE

THE TRUTH SURROUNDING THE CURSE

HOME

I would like to dedicate this book to my three best friends, Donna Babinka, Virginia Riedy, and Nancy Brown.

I would like to extend a special thank you to Dave. Thank you for all your help, support, advice, and encouragement. You are the light at the end of my day, every day, and I am so grateful for all you do and all you’ve helped me to become.

I also want to thank Donna Babinka for her assistance in making this book possible. You have a special place in my heart. May God bless you.

In loving memory of Ethel, Ruth, and Thelma; the Butler girls.

Thank you to James Warren Andrews for your artistic eye.

Rachel hurried to plug in the blow drier. She was running late this morning. She had an appointment at 8:30 AM with an artist. She was head of the art department for Sunny Days Magazine. She glanced at the clock as she sipped the last of her coffee. She pulled the towel from her head and began to blow dry her hair. She shook her head to allow it to fall around her shoulders as she gazed at her appearance in the mirror. She brushed some blush onto her cheeks. She lined her eyes with a black pencil and applied black mascara to her lashes. She then hurried into the bedroom to dress.

Rachel pulled a fuchsia suit from the closet. She stepped into the straight skirt. She pulled a camisole over her head and tucked it into her skirt. She brushed her hair until it shined. She applied a bright colored lipstick to her lips. Then she pulled her jacket on. She carried her heels to the kitchenette where she took another bite of her toast. She slipped her feet into her heels and wrapped a scarf around her neck. She hurried out into the hall of her apartment building. She took the elevator down to the first floor. It was a sunny morning. She had no trouble getting a cab to stop. Downtown, please, to The Sunny Days Publishing building. She told the cabbie. They were off.

Rachel pulled her cell phone from her purse and touched the screen. There were no messages. She sighed. Her boyfriend, Mark Townsend, was away on business this week. He had promised he would call. It had been two days since she spoke to him. She’d left him numerous messages. She was contemplating calling him again and thought better of it. He was beginning to irritate her. He had never done this before. He was due home tonight. Rachel had written down the time and terminal numbers. Still he should have called. She returned her cell phone to her purse and adjusted her scarf.

Rachel watched the city as they made their way to Market Street. She thought of home. Her Nana was celebrating her one hundredth birthday in a week. She had been in a nursing home for the past nine months due to a series of strokes. She could not speak. However, she seemed to know Rachel the last time she visited her at the nursing home. Rachel’s mother had called Rachel the day before yesterday and told her they were bringing Nana home for her last days. She was going to Nana’s small ranch home in Pennsylvania to clean the house out, as the house had been sold.

The taxi pulled to a stop along the curb. Rachel paid the driver and went through the revolving glass door. She chose to take the stairs to the second floor because the elevator had gotten stuck Monday with two people inside. They were trapped inside for over an hour. Rachel wasn’t afraid of confined spaces, but she certainly didn’t want to miss this meeting. Dillon Peters was an excellent artist. He was just starting to make a name for himself. Rachel wanted to be one of the first to work with him.

She arrived on the second floor only slightly out of breath. It wasn’t the walk that caused her to breathe hard. She has in excellent health. She ran two miles five days a week. But taking the stairs in five inch heels took effort. Normally she would have worn three inch heels, but today she felt really energized. She took a deep breath and smiled at the staff that greeted her as she walked the hall to her office. Her secretary, Tina, was waiting for her with a cup of coffee.

Thank you Tina. Rachel said. She took the cup and went to her desk. Tina entered the office with a pad in her hand.

You have the eight-thirty appointment with Mr. Peters and a ten o’clock meeting in the conference room. At two-thirty you are to see Gordon about the revisions he was to make in the article about the British Royals. Tina read.

Rachel sipped her coffee as she listened. What’s the conference meeting about, do you know? She asked her secretary.

There has been some talk about a new publishing company wanting to merge with us. I don’t know if that is going to be the announcement or not. That is just the talk out on the floor. Tina said.

Rachel nodded. Okay. I suppose we will find out soon enough. As soon as Mr. Peters arrives, show him right in. Make a fresh pot of coffee and go down to the latte’ shop and buy a couple of those iced cappuccino drinks. Also maybe some smart water, just in case he doesn’t do the coffee thing. Rachel was looking at the pile of papers on her desk.

Tina stood for a few moments and asked, Do you need anything else?

No, that should do it for now. I need to brush up on a few things before he gets here. You’re done here for now. Have a cup of coffee. Rachel said. Just as Tina was about to close the door, Rachel called out. Tina, if Mark calls put him right through, only not while Mr. Peters is here.

Will do boss. Tina said. She pulled the door shut to leave Rachel to her work.

Rachel began going over her stack of mock copies of art work. The time flew by. Tina was at the door again. Mr. Peters is here. She announced.

Show him in. Rachel said as she smoothed her hair. She went to the door to greet Dillon Peters as he entered.

Dillon was a thin lanky young man. His fingers were long and boney. Rachel thought he must play the piano. He was blonde with just a light amount of stubble. His eyes were a bright blue with darker rings around the outside of the iris. He had dark circles under his eyes. He looked tired. He was dressed in a dark grey suit with a light blue shirt. His tie was something unique. It looked like it had been hand painted. Rachel had never seen anything like it before.

Rachel smiled as she extended her hand to the younger man. He reached out to take her hand. A wide smile crossed his lips exposing the whitest teeth she had ever seen. He definitely does not drink coffee. She thought to herself. Have a seat, Mr. Peters. She said.

Dillon Peters laid his art case on Rachel’s desk. He opened it to expose his drawings. Rachel stood behind the desk leafing through the pages. These are remarkable. She said. Dillon Peters remained silent as he sat in the wooden chair opposite her desk.

Finally, Rachel closed the book and sat down at her desk. I like what I see. She said.

Dillon smiled a wide smile and folded his hands in his lap. Tina entered the office with a tray of cold latte’ drinks and one bottle of smart water. Would you like something to drink, Mr. Peters? Tina asked.

Thank you. Dillon said reaching for the smart water. Rachel smiled. She waved her hand at Tina to excuse her.

What do we need to do to get your artwork in our magazine, Mr. Peters? Rachel asked.

Again he smiled across the desk at her. What do you have to offer? He asked.

My boss has approved a budget that I think is doable. It only needs your approval and of course a contract will need to be signed. Rachel explained.

How much? Dillon asked.

Why don’t you name your price and we will go from there? Rachel grinned at the young man. Something told her he didn’t have much experience with this kind of thing.

Will I need a lawyer? Dillon asked.

Oh I don’t think so. It’s just your basic you agree to let us use your artwork in our article and we ask that you don’t let anyone else use the same artwork in the future without our knowledge. Rachel explained.

Dillon nodded. I understand. I suppose it will depend on how many pictures you decide to use.

Yes. Rachel said. She could see he was uncomfortable. Perhaps you want to think about it for a while. Why don’t I have Tina take you down to the art department and let you look around? Feel free to ask any questions you want. If you decide on a price, we will go from there. All I need is your signature. I’m prepared to take all of the pictures you brought with you today. If we don’t use them in this next article we will use them in future articles, I am sure.

Rachel waved at Tina. She entered the office. Tina, would you escort Mr. Peters down to the art department? Show him around down there. She shook hands with Dillon Peters again. Here, Mr. Peters. Don’t forget your book. She said holding the heavy art book out to Mr. Peters.

Dillon took the art book and placed it under his arm. Thank you Miss Walters. I feel confident that we will be working together soon. He said as he followed Tina out of the office.

Rachel went back to her stack of papers on the desk. Soon Tina was reminding her of her ten o’clock meeting in the conference room. As they walked the hall toward the board room Tina told Rachel that Mr. Peters had agreed to sign the contract.

Rachel went into the board room. There were nine others sitting around the long table that sat in the center of the room. The blinds had been closed to block the morning sun, for the room faced the east. Mr. Harris sat at the head of the table. When everyone was settled he began his speech about the success of the magazine and the upcoming articles. Then he told them about another one of their competitors who had recently gone on the market. We have purchased their stock and we are merging to become even bigger and better. It may mean some major changes in the office. Some you will like; some you will not. Unfortunately some of you may be let go, and some of you may be asked to move. We don’t know who or what changes are necessary at this time, so don’t anyone get in a panic. Mr. Harris said.

Rachel felt a lump come up in her throat. Her palms began to sweat. She looked around at the white faces staring at Mr. Harris as he went on. She didn’t hear a word he had said from that point on.

You may all be excused now. Go back to your offices and continue doing the outstanding job you have all been doing up to this point. As I said before, nothing is written in stone. Perhaps no one in this room will be affected by the merge. It’s just a matter of utilizing the best of the best to make us number one. Mr. Harris said. He stood up and went to the door to shake hands with each individual as they left the office. When Rachel shook his hand, she noticed that it too was sweaty. She went back to her office in shock.

Tina hurried into her office. I just heard. Oh my God! I can’t believe it. Do you think he is going to let me go?

Rachel sat staring up at her. I don’t know. It was all she could think of to say.

Tina flopped down in the chair across from Rachel’s desk. We’ve been hearing rumors for about two weeks now, but you know how that goes. Rumors come and go. But the bad stuff never really happens. This just can’t be happening. Tina said.

Rachel looked out the glass partition at the faces of those huddled in groups, no doubt gossiping. Perhaps you should get to work, Tina. I don’t think this is a good time to be seen hanging around being unproductive. Just make sure you are always busy. She instructed.

Tina jumped to her feet. Good idea boss. Oh yes, I forgot. Mark called. He will be coming in on an earlier flight. He said he will meet you at the apartment tonight.

Rachel frowned. Thank you Tina.

Tina left the office. Rachel was alone with her thoughts. She checked her cell phone again. There still was no message from Mark. He had called the office without talking to her.

Rachel felt annoyed. She busied herself with the pile of papers on her desk. She skipped lunch and went to her afternoon appointment with her stomach growling. Finally she was ready to go home. Outside she found a street vender and bought a hot dog. She hailed a cab and climbed in. The taxi driver spoke very little English. She sighed and rode home in silence.

Rachel hurried into the elevator. She fumbled through her purse for her keys. She unlocked the door to her apartment and stepped inside, closing the door behind her. She noticed the bags sitting along the wall. A note on the counter read:

Went for a run. Will dine out tonight. Love you, Mark.

Rachel didn’t feel much like going out tonight. She would rather order carry out and relax with their feet propped up on the coffee table while she told him about her day. She put her purse in the closet and removed her heels. She went to the bathroom and showered. Once again she found herself with her hair wrapped in a towel, and wearing her fluffy pink bath robe. The door knob turned and Mark entered the room. Rachel ran to him. He wrapped his arms around her. They kissed.

Mark was tall and muscular. He had dark wavy hair with thick eyebrows. His eyes were green and seem to dance in the light. Rachel had dark hair as well. Hers hung long and straight. She often wondered what their children would look like. They had always said one day they would marry and have three children. For now, living together would have to do. Mark traveled too much for them to settle down. He was trying to establish himself so he could break off on his own one day and they could marry, buy a small brick ranch in the outskirts of town, and live happily ever after. They had been living together for the past three years now.

I’m all sweaty Honey. Let me get a shower and then we can go out to dinner. Mark said.

Oh Mark, Rachel complained. I’ve had the worst day. Couldn’t we get carry out and spend the evening relaxing together? I would really like that.

Mark rubbed his chin. I suppose. We have a lot to talk about. He said.

When do you have to leave again? Rachel asked.

I leave Sunday night for Vegas. I’ll be gone all week. Mark said. He pulled Rachel to him. I need to shower Baby. He said.

Okay. I’ll call for delivery. Is pizza okay? Rachel asked.

That sounds fine to me. Mark said as he went toward the bedroom.

Rachel dialed the familiar number. She ate a lot of carry out while Mark was out of town. She ordered a twelve inch pizza. Then she went to the kitchen to pour two glasses of wine. She was carrying the glasses to the coffee table when Marks phone chimed. He was getting a text.

Rachel sat down on the couch. She propped her feet up on the table sipping at her wine. She looked toward the bedroom. The door was closed. She could hear the shower running. She sat the wine glass down on the table and picked up Mark’s phone. The text was from Mia. Who is Mia? She wondered. The text read:

Hd terrfc tm ths week. Cnt wait tl nxt wk. Have u tld hr yet?

Had terrific time this week. Can’t wait till next week. Have you told her yet? Rachel repeated softly. Again a lump came up into her throat. The door to the bathroom opened and Mark was standing there looking at her in his bath robe.

What’s going on? She asked him.

What do you mean? He asked in return.

Rachel held up his phone. You got a message from Mia. Who is Mia and what is going on? Rachel asked with a shaky voice.

Mark took two steps toward her and stopped. Rachel, I was going to tell you tonight.

Tell me what, Mark? Rachel asked.

Mark sighed. He went to sit next to her. Mia Corey is the new boss I was telling you about. He began.

Rachel held her hand up to stop him. Wait. You mean you are sleeping with your boss? She asked.

It’s not really like that Rachel. We’ve been traveling together. She wants to learn about the field work. Mark said in defense.

Oh so you are not sleeping with her. Rachel said.

Mark looked down and Rachel threw herself back against the sofa. Are you or are you not sleeping with her, Mark? Rachel asked.

Mark said nothing. He continued to stare at the floor. Rachel jumped to her feet. I can’t believe you are doing this to us. How long has this been going on? She asked.

For a couple of months now. I’ve wanted to tell you Rachel. I’ve tried so many times. I just care too much about you to hurt you. He said looking up at her for the first time.

Rachel went to stand in the doorway to the bedroom. Oh you care too much about me to tell me the truth, but not enough to hold back a lie. I want you to get your things and get the hell out of my apartment. She cried. She went into the bedroom and closed the door. She hurried to put on a pair of jeans and a T shirt. She pulled on a pair of cowboy boots and wrapped another scarf around her neck. She emerged with tears streaming down her cheeks. I’m going over to Bridgette’s. I want you gone when I get back. She got her purse out of the closet and she left.

Rachel hailed another cab. While riding in the back seat she dialed her best friend, Bridgette Miller. When she heard Bridgette’s voice on the other end, she burst into tears.

Where are you Rache? Bridgette asked.

I’m in a cab headed your way. Rachel said.

Good. I’ll be watching for you. Bridgette said.

The cab pulled up in front of a brownstone apartment. Bridgette was waiting on the cement steps. She hurried out to greet her best friend. She wrapped her arm around Rachel’s shoulders. Rachel burst into tears. Bridgette led her indoors. They went up a flight of stairs that wound along the wall to a second floor. Bridgette’s apartment was the first door on the left.

Inside Rachel managed to sob the entire events of the evening with Mark. Bridgette sat on her sofa holding Rachel’s head in her lap. She had two glasses of wine sitting on the table waiting her friend’s arrival. Bridgette said nothing until Rachel paused. That dirty bastard! I hope he gets the clap! Bridgette said. Rachel began to sob again. Don’t you cry tears for that bastard, Honey. He isn’t worth it. Bridgette said.

Oh Bridgette, how could I have not noticed some sign. He said it has been going on for months. I thought we were happy. I knew he was traveling more lately, but I thought he was preparing to leave the company and go off on his own like he promised. I was even beginning to plan my wedding. I can’t believe I was that naïve. I feel so foolish. Rachel cried.

Why don’t you sleep here tonight? He should be gone by morning. I don’t want you going over there and running into him again. Don’t even talk to him. Let him wonder what is going on in your head. He doesn’t deserve you anyway. Bridgette said trying to sooth her friend.

Oh Bridgette, I can’t stay here. I have to go home. I have to go into the office early tomorrow. Now is not a good time to be late or take a day off. They are merging with another company and they are looking at everyone through a microscope right now. Rachel explained.

Good Lord Rache. You don’t need this now. Do you want me to go with you? Bridgette asked. I could spend the night with you, I suppose.

Rachel wiped at her nose. No. She replied. I will just wait a while. He will be gone before long. I am sure he will be in a hurry to rush off into Mia’s arms. It’s the darn Pickett curse.

Bridgette patted Rachel on the thigh, No Rachel. I don’t believe in curses, and neither do you really. That was a long time ago and it had nothing to do with you. So stop talking like that. Bridgette said.

No Bridgette. My Nana told us her twin sister cursed her and her family. Nana was a twin. Her sister Carrie and Nana were to marry the Pickett brothers. The day before the wedding Carrie’s fiancé, Melvin Pickett was killed when his buggy slid over a ravine in the hills of Pennsylvania. Carrie saw everyone celebrating at Nana’s wedding and she flipped out or something. She cursed Nana and her husband Marshall Pickett. She cursed their offspring too. Then she went to the barn and hung herself. Rachel said.

Bridgette smiled and cupped her hands around her friends face. Come on Rachel. It was just a heartbroken woman who lost her marbles. You can’t really believe that curse thing, now do you? She asked.

Rachel shook her head. She sat up straight. I didn’t before, but now I’m beginning to wonder. Momma was a twin too. When her sister Estelle was twelve years old she just disappeared. No one knows what happened to her. It was a rainy day. She said she was going to the attic to play, but she wasn’t up there when they checked. They never saw her again. Maybe that curse thing is real. I thought I was happy. I have a really terrific job, and a handsome, successful boyfriend. I’ve lost one today and who knows what’s going to happen at the magazine in the next couple of weeks. Rachel covered her face with her hands.

That’s it! Bridgette began. You’re calling in sick tomorrow. You can’t go to work like this. You need some time to get this out of your system.

No I can’t Bridgette. I have to be there. Rachel protested. He will leave, like I said. He will run right to Mia and tell her what a wonderful job of breaking up with me he did. She will sleep snug as a bug in a rug tonight all wrapped up in Mark’s arms.

Bridgette pulled Rachel to her. "Alright Honey, whatever you want. I’m here if you need me. You are always welcome to stay here or as I said before; I can camp on your sofa a night or two if you need me.

Rachel hugged her friend. I’ll make it through this. I just need a place to crash for a couple of hours. He should be gone soon and I can go home and go to bed. I’m kind of hungry. Can we order a pizza or something? Rachel asked.

Why sure we can. Bridgette said. She went to the phone and ordered a large pizza, wings, and bread sticks. She opened another bottle of wine and poured two glasses while they waited for the pizza to be delivered. Wait until you see this new pizza delivery guy. He must work out or something. He’s kind of young for us, but oooh is he nice to look at. Bridgette said smiling.

Rachel burst into laughter. Oh Bridgette, you always could make me laugh. You are the best friend a girl could ever want. Rachel hugged her friend again.

Bridgette sat down on the sofa beside Rachel. Well, I don’t want to hear any more about any curse some old broad put on you. Let’s talk about something else for a while. Anything as long as it isn’t sad or crazy. Bridgette said.

Okay. Rachel said.

The pizza came. Bridgette was right about the pizza delivery guy. They had a good laugh after he had left. They ate their pizza and drank more wine. Soon Rachel called another cab and staggered out of the elevator into her apartment. It was dark and quiet. Mark was gone.

Rachel fell onto her bed and cried herself to sleep while still fully dressed. She woke to find she was still wearing her cowboy boots. She showered and dressed for the day. The dark circles under her eyes were a constant reminder of the night before. She tried not to look at her own reflection. She took a deep breath and caught a cab for work.

In her office she watched her coworkers as they gathered together gossiping over coffee and donuts. She shook her head. They were all setting themselves up to be replaced. Tina entered her office as soon as she arrived.

It looks like rain out there. Oh my gosh, what happened to you? Tina asked upon looking at Rachel.

It’s a long story and I don’t feel like explaining right now. Rachel said.

You look awful Rachel. Is it because of the merge? Tina began. I know I didn’t get much sleep last night either. I kept thinking about what you said. I think you are right. I can’t do anything about it if they let me go. All I can do is look busy all the time and hope they don’t lay me off. But you, Rachel, you won’t have anything to worry about. They couldn’t run this place without you. You will always have a job here. You don’t have to worry.

Tina stop. Rachel said. It has nothing to do with the announcement yesterday. It is something personal. I’ll be alright. I just need to drown myself in work. Now go find something to do.

Okay Rachel, I mean Miss Walters. Tina said as she hurried from the office. I’ll bring you your coffee.

Thank you Tina. Rachel called after her.

The next couple of days were torture for Rachel. She had watched out the glass partition as some of her coworkers were escorted to their desks, only to clean them out and be escorted from the building. Her heart sank. She was not sleeping at night and she was aware of how badly her appearance was becoming. Instead of running her two miles in the evenings she was lounging on the sofa in a sweat suit eating pizza and burgers from a fast food carry out. She noticed this morning that she had to suck her stomach in to button her skirt. The dark circles under her eyes were getting more noticeable. She couldn’t focus at the office either. She watched as others stared at her and whispered behind her back.

Tina had managed to find something to do all the time. How she did it Rachel didn’t know. She asked about Rachel’s health every morning and tried to cheer her up with fancy pastries. Rachel was slipping deeper and deeper into depression.

This morning Rachel watched as Mr. Harris called security into his office. A few moments later, the security guard approached Paulette Rowell and stood watching as she boxed up everything in her desk. Then he walked with her as she left the building, crying and cursing Mr. Harris.

Rachel covered her face with her hands. What were they thinking? Paulette was fantastic and she had brought a lot to this company. She held her head in her hands as she tried to focus on what was on her schedule for the day. The door to her office opened and she asked, What is it Tina? She removed her hands from her face to see the security guard standing just inside her office.

I’m afraid Mr. Harris has to let you go Miss Walters. He said. If you would please, I’ll wait while you pack up your personal belongings. Then I’ll escort you out.

Rachel could see the pain in the man’s face. She had always been kind to this man. It was obvious that he didn’t want to do this. She looked through the glass partition at the faces watching her. There was no point in making a scene. She stood up and began to empty her drawers.

Tina came rushing into the office. There must be some kind of mistake. You can’t be walking Miss Walters out. We need her. Tina was objecting.

Please Mam. The security guard said. If you wouldn’t mind waiting outside; Miss Walters doesn’t want to make a scene, do you Miss Walters? He asked. His eyes were pleading.

Of course not. Rachel said. Tina, I will be fine. Don’t you have some work you should be doing? She starred at her secretary.

Tina nodded. She had tears welling up in her eyes. She turned and closed the door behind her.

We don’t need all of those people watching. The security guard said as he began to close the blinds.

Thank you. Rachel said. She began to put things into the box the security guard had brought with him. He carried the box for her as they walked toward the elevator. No one spoke as she passed the glass cubicles on her way to the elevator. As the elevator descended to the ground floor, Rachel prayed it would get stuck so she could sue or do something to get even on her way out. But that didn’t happen.

A cab was waiting for her when she reached the street. The security guard said as he closed the door to the cab, I am sorry Miss Walters. I am only doing my job. You were always kind to me and I won’t forget you. He said.

Rachel could not speak. She blinked back the tears. She just smiled and then she was passing the familiar route home for the last time.

Once she reached the apartment she threw herself onto her bed and sobbed out loud. The events of the past week and a half came crashing in on her. The Pickett curse. She said through her tears. Damn you Carrie. Why did you have to do this to us? Then she cried some more.

When she woke it was dark in the apartment. She sat on the side of the bed staring at a shadow made by the towers beyond the window. The telephone rang causing her to jump. She rolled to the other side of the bed and picked up the receiver. Hello? she asked.

Rachel, its Momma. Evelyn Walters said into the phone.

Momma, what time is it? Rachel asked picking up the alarm clock that sat on the stand next to the phone.

It is going on nine, Honey. Were you in bed already? Evelyn asked.

No. I fell asleep on the bed, but I’m up now. I just wasn’t oriented I guess. Is everything alright? Rachel asked.

Well, Evelyn began. As good as can be expected, I suppose. Nana isn’t well at all. We are bringing her home as you know. I’ve cleared her house out and the nursing home is bringing her here the day after tomorrow. I was wondering if you were going to make it home for her birthday party this weekend.

Rachel ran her hand through her hair. She wiped at her face. Rachel honey, are you there? Evelyn asked.

Yes Mamma, I’m here. I’m thinking maybe I should just come home. Things aren’t going so well at the office these days and I think I should take some time off to clear my head. I’m thinking of maybe making a change in my career. Would you mind if I came home for a while? Rachel asked. She was trying not to cry.

There was a pause. Honey, you are always welcome here, you know that. Evelyn said.

GOING HOME

Rachel closed the apartment up and put her belongings in storage. She rented a car and packed her personal things in boxes and suitcases. She was amazed at how much she had accumulated since she left home. She had just celebrated her twenty-fourth birthday, two months ago. She thought of it as she drove the winding road toward Pennsylvania.

Mark had taken her to the opera and then they dined at an exquisite restaurant in the heart of town. They sat across from one another starring into each other eyes. He told her how beautiful she was and how much he loved her. They talked about their plans for the future. Little did she know that he was already seeing Mia. He had deceived her so well.

Rachel stopped at a drive thru coffee shop and got a cup of strong black coffee. She still wasn’t sleeping very well. She worried that her mother would notice right away. She really wasn’t up to explaining everything right now, but she knew it was probably going to happen. She could only hope that her mother would be preoccupied with Nana’s birthday party and Rachel’s settling in.

Nana was born in Pennsylvania; a place they called the Valley of the Dead Trees. There was a blight of some sort that attacked a certain tree in the mountains of Pennsylvania before Nana was born. There were so many dead trees in the hills and valleys that it was named The Valley of the Dead Trees. Nana was born Cora Stallworth. She had a twin sister named Carrie. Their mother died after childbirth and the girls were raised by their spinster Aunt Naomi. Marshall and Melvin Pickett were brothers who took a liking to the girls. They were not twins, but were only a year apart in age. They lived on a neighboring farm. They had planned a double wedding. Everyone in the area was invited. A hog was being roasted and a grand feast was planned. Nana had told Rachel about the belling they had whenever someone got married.

A belling was a parade of wagons, people on horseback, and even on foot that followed a wagon carrying the newlyweds. A man riding in the wagon rang a bell as they paraded throughout the community, announcing the newly married couple. They congregated near the couple’s new home for a bond fire and feast. A hat was passed and donations to the newlyweds were placed in the hat. The party lasted all night.

The day before the wedding, Melvin Pickett was driving the wagon to the spot where they chose to have the wedding. It was on top of a cliff looking out over the valley. Nana had said it was a beautiful place where many couples would picnic. It had rained for a couple of days and the ground was soft. Melvin, wagon, and horses slid right over the edge to their deaths.

Carrie was beside herself with grief over the accident. Cora and Marshall went ahead with their wedding. Nana said when Carrie saw all of the folks laughing and dancing she lost her mind. She cursed the newlyweds and their offspring after them. Then she ran to the barn. Aunt Naomi went to console the poor girl and found her hanging in the barn, dead.

Nana and Marshall Pickett had twin daughters, Evelyn and Estelle. Estelle disappeared when she was twelve years old on a rainy day in April. No one knows what happened to her. They suspected a lone traveler of murdering the girl. Beings they could find no body, they sentenced the man to life in prison instead of hanging him. Evelyn grew up and married Rachel’s father, Harry Walters. Rachel had an older brother Terrance, who was married and divorced. He had moved to Canada. She had a younger brother, Melvin, named after Carrie Stallworth’s dead fiancée. Nana had begged her daughter to name her son after her dead brother-in-law. The hope was that by naming the boy after Melvin Pickett, the curse would be broken.

Rachel was driving through the valley that once was plagued with dead and rotting trees. Her parents had moved into Nana’s childhood home. They had added onto both sides of the house. It once was a brick two story structure with a four foot brick wall around the front of the house. Beyond that, out near the road, was another brick wall. This one stood six foot tall and surrounded the entire farm. It was used to keep the livestock inside the perimeter. The smaller wall was used to keep the livestock out of the yard and living area. Why a brick wall was used, Rachel never understood.

Rachel turned left off the road onto the paved drive that was shaded by maple trees on both sides. She drove through the opening of the six foot wall that had been maintained all these years. As she approached the house the drive went into a circle where the smaller wall once stood, having been torn down. In the center of the circle stood a fountain made from the bricks of the smaller wall.

The old brick structure stood tall, greeting her. It was three stories high. Rachel’s father had added two wooden wings to each side of the house that stretched out on each side and back beyond the brick structure. A swimming pool and patio area were nestled between the two structures out back, which stood two stories high. A veranda protruded from the second floor of the brick structure that also served as a roof over part of the patio. It had been screened in to allow for evening reclining outdoors without the disturbances of mosquitoes and other pests.

Rachel brought her car to a stop near the front porch. The door swung open and Melvin came to greet her. They embraced. His friend Gerald stood on the porch smiling down at them. Up until last year, it was thought that Gerald was Melvin’s best friend. Then Melvin made the announcement that he was gay. After some crying and arguing Gerald was accepted into the family and once again life became normal at the Walter’s home.

Is Terry coming home for Nana’s birthday? Rachel asked her younger brother.

He said he should get in sometime tonight. Something about getting the kids for the week. I don’t know. They are in school so I don’t understand it. Mom can explain. Look at you! Melvin said holding Rachel’s hands. He was smiling until he got a closer look at her face.

What the hell happened to you? You look absolutely awful dear sister. Melvin said.

Rachel shook her head. It’s a long story. I really don’t want to talk about it right now. Let’s just say Mark won’t be joining us for Nana’s birthday and leave it at that. She said as she began to ascend the stone steps that led to the wooden double doors.

Oh my, I can’t wait until you are ready to open up on that subject. Melvin said as he followed her. Come on Gerald. We don’t want to miss this.

Rachel turned to give her brother a dirty look. Then she stepped inside the double doors and into the house. She immediately heard her mother calling to her from the stairs as she came hurrying down. Rachel, honey, I am so glad you made it. She wrapped her arms around her daughter.

Mother, did you know Mark wasn’t coming? Melvin asked.

Melvin, why don’t you and Gerald take Rachel’s things upstairs to her room? Give her time to settle in. Evelyn Walters said.

Oh come on Gerald. We aren’t going to hear about it for a while. Melvin said. He picked up the smaller of the two suit cases and the cosmetic case. Gerald picked up the larger suitcase and began to climb the stairs behind Melvin.

Rachel looked up. At the top of the stairs was an oval opening where the hall went in a circular pattern in the center of the second floor. A banister around the opening was visible from below. The spindle posts had been painted white, while the walnut banister had been varnished and polished to perfection. It started in the center of the entrance and went up to the top. It had always been a point of elegance to Rachel. She took a deep breath. It smelled like home. She felt better already.

Evelyn Walters put her arm around her daughter. Would you like a glass of iced tea? She asked.

Rachel smile as she replied, I would love something stronger, but Iced tea will do for now.

Evelyn shook her head. Come on into the kitchen. It’s too early in the day for the hard stuff. Your father will be having his early afternoon nip in a while. You can join him if you feel you need to.

Thank you Mother. I was only teasing. Rachel said. Where is Daddy?

Evelyn pulled out a chair for Rachel. He’s out riding the wall.

Rachel smiled. Riding the wall had always been an expression they used whenever a family member went riding. The six foot wall went around the perimeter of the property. All two hundred, thirty acres. It was impossible to go off the property unless one rode out the drive where the wall parted.

Evelyn was busying herself with preparing Rachel a glass of tea. Rachel looked around the kitchen. The kitchen was part of the original brick structure. It had been remodeled to accommodate modern living. The walls and floor were original, only painted and polished. The plaster walls were rough, having been patched over the years to cover the addition of electricity. The ceiling had been redone, to add electricity. A lone ceiling fan hung from the center, spinning slowly and silently. The floor was inlaid brick. Rachel hated the cold floor in the winter as a child. As she aged, she came to appreciate the workmanship that added class to this old house. It was the house Nana had been born in. Her father had built this house for his new wife.

Evelyn sat the glass in front of Rachel. She pulled out a chair and sat down, reaching over to cover Rachel’s hand with her own. You look terrible, Honey. What is it? She asked.

Rachel burst into tears. Oh Momma, everything. I think it’s the Pickett Curse".

Evelyn smiled. She patted Rachel’s hand as she said, Honey, you don’t believe in that silly old story do you? Evelyn shook her head and continued to smile. She reached for the box of tissues, placing it near Rachel. That is just an old story. Look around you. We have been living in this house all of these years and we have been happy here. I was happy here as a child. Sister Estelle’s disappearance was the only bad thing that ever happened here. I think if the curse was real, it would be strongest here. She watched Rachel as she wiped at her face and eyes. You look exhausted. Have you been sleeping at all? Evelyn asked.

Rachel shook her head. Not much, Momma. One day my life was perfect and the next it was terrible. Mark had been traveling so much lately. He said he was going to break away on his own and we were getting married. We were going to move to the country and he even said he wanted to have three children. I believed him. I believed my life was perfect, and I was so happy. Things at the office were going so well. Mr. Harris announced we were merging with one of our biggest competitors and we were going to be bigger and better. I was on top of the world. Then I found out that Mark had been screwing, I mean, he was having an affair with this Mia woman for the past three months. She is his boss. They had been traveling together. All this time I thought he was preparing to leave the business. She paused to take a breath.

Evelyn frowned. I am so sorry Honey. He betrayed you. That must have been awful.

Rachel nodded as she said, "It was. I couldn’t sleep or concentrate on my work. Mr. Harris had been letting people go to bring in fresh faces into