The Warm Evenin' Before Fall

By Schrodin Sennachie. Bailee

Unfortunately, the choices you make, good or bad, both selfish and altruistic, affect the surrounding people. Now think.... What sacrifices can you live with? Life is to live and to cope, Esther learns this the hard way, while her life's journey goes through multiple twists and turns. Her eyes see things a normal human shouldn't. Her feet carry her to a path no one should ever travel. Which leads her to many crossroads. Take a breather; Now sit and listen to the Life of Esther.... Her Warm Evenin' Before Fall...

Sitting on her porch and enjoying hot cocoa during a stormy weather, an elderly lady recalls her life struggles, the choices she made. This her story.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Dec 19, 2019
• ISBN: 9781728339665

Book preview

THE

WARM EVENIN’

BEFORE FALL

SCHRODIN

SENNACHIE BAILEE.

S.S.B

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AuthorHouse™

1663 Liberty Drive

Bloomington, IN 47403

www.authorhouse.com

Phone: [phone]

© 2020 Schrodin Sennachie Bailee. S.S.B. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse  12/18/2019

ISBN: 978-1-7283-3968-9 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-7283-3967-2 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-7283-3966-5 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2019920630

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models,

and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

CONTENTS

Chapter 1 Life Pains; Life Gains

Chapter 2 Please, Do Come In

Chapter 3 Life

Chapter 4 Wild Card

Chapter 5 Emergence

Chapter 6 Triple 6 Or Triple 9: Things Aren’t What They Seem…

Chapter 7 Na!

Chapter 8 Nana!

Chapter 9 See The World, So That The World May See You - Too

Chapter 10 Lost My Mind; Lost In Time

Chapter 11 What’s My Path?

Chapter 12 Safe Travels

Chapter 13 13

Chapter 14 There’s Always A First

Chapter 15 Do Better!

Chapter 16 Korosu

Chapter 17 Tadaima

CHAPTER 1

LIFE PAINS; LIFE GAINS

T HERE’S NO HEROES OR VILLAINS IN this story. Sad to say this is life, not that fairy tale gibberish you so happy to consume.

You got this all wrong! Hmm…Believe me when I say this. There’s no Heroes or villains in this story. This is life. And to a few; a game. However, make it as whatever you like. Just know this….Checkmate!

Thud. Chess piece rolls off the board and breaks into shards as it hits the ground.

The Story:

Pitter-patter, pitter-patter… The rain strikes the wooden roof and splashes on the concrete steps. In September; the rainy season is underway, while the breeze dances wild throughout the branches of multiple exotic trees. There, it swings by the cabin; knocks on the windows, then runs toward and over the roof. With a reverse; It becomes balletic with its swirls that then forms into a tempestuous whirlwind.

The ruthless cyclone spatters multiple surges of rain wherever it desires; and with its sheer monstrous force continues its momentum that causes both leaves to scatter and weather-worn branches to break. Without a critical moment’s notice, in reluctance; the countless multitude of frigid water downpours. It disperses from the roof’s trench, that cause the cabin to resemble a dam.

(Budum- Crack!)

A thunderous airy noise comes from the sky. With the turbulence of a bowling ball, that rolls and falls from a lofty altitude into a grassy ditch of glassware. Lambent zigzag of lightning develops after the horrific explosion, which transforms into a contour of a gigantic fork. This creates an exhilarating, fierce light- smoke performance; that shines bright through the darkening skies. It then Gushes with a hefty (Shh!) that echoes throughout, and the rain tramples everything beneath their feet.

Ah-ah-ah-Choo!

The refreshing and friendly breeze now becomes indifferent. She draws upon her knit dark brown wool coat, while her aged slender fingers presented her most cherished cup of hot chocolate to her lean colorless lips. It gives a soft embrace, as the hot beverage which comprises marshmallow, foams in her mouth with passionate love…

… Mm-hmm-hmm, just what I needed!

A deep fervor rushes throughout her frail body. It allows her mind to relax in euphoria. But, being troublesome, the woven blanket fell once more, which bares her slender arms.

Ahh-Choo-Ung-Ung-Garh!

Annoyed, she sets the used mug on the coffee table and pulls the covers over her shoulders behind the rocking chair handle. Which creates a snug fit. Now back to my love… She takes a few more sips, while attentive to the musical chimes being played for her grace.

Compliments of the favorable wind; Nana relaxes into utmost bliss. Her withered corner eyelids retract to a slow close.

Meantime, with an awkward movement, she places the cup on the small glass top coffee table. And shovels her frigid sensitive hand under the knitted cover.

This, for her, initiate a shapeless bundle of emotional warmth and overwhelming joy. Later, her thoughts disperse with ease. While both ears, notes to the vague echoes of lucid rainfall and the dull thunder rolls through the overcast skies. The chimes play their sultry tunes of tingle-tingle above her head. And in the background, the frantic calls of the Coquis reflect from the overhanging trees. The fragrant flowers from the side garden on the deck encourage a therapeutic scent. It coincides with an herbaceous smell, mixed with soil sodden by the continuous downpour.

This Lady, known as Nana Esther within her natural habitat, surrounds herself with peacefulness; Falls asleep, warm in profound tranquility… Cozy.

At this moment, time itself rewinds to display her youth. She snuggles and pulls on the warm blanket for a more-snug fit. Later, her imagery develops into the likeness of murky glass. Better yet, a frozen thicket within a dense fog as it continues to revert the seconds. 31,536,000 and transitions forward once more. Thin hair strands of grayish hues appear. That transitions to multiple full-bodied black strains of fluff, with slight curls along the tip that leads mid-way along her back. She vanishes from the chair in a split second, again returns with a youthful physique. A portrait being erased from the books of history, she vanishes. And the clock continues to rewind, the lady reappears. Later her body fades away from this world, then appears once more, younger at each passing moment, she returns. After which, this elderly lady now reverts to a child.

Her surrounding environment transforms, which brings the sound of muffle motor noises, without notice. Sparse greenery having a few tall trees shows itself, while vivid sunlight sparkles in between the snow-covered branches. Along the multiple semi-detached houses, the aftermath of the wintry storm lingers. With the roads muddled with slush and icy sidewalks. About three feet of white sleet, solidifies in piles by the previous road work.

But during the storm, an overwhelming seven inches of snow covers the slopes and surrounding areas. Even weeks later and the remnants still inveigle with mundane daily activities. Now Adelita, agitated, sits at the dinner table with head in her arms frustrated. She taps her left foot twice on the wooden floor, with an envelope in hand. Many sits on the table in a pile, torn open; she seeks a glimmer of hope. But none show any information that could alleviate the situation.

Dammit! Cries in frustration and rage. She swings her hand along the table as the letter’s heaves into the air and onto the ground.

Aargh… How did I even get here! Her screams grow loud enough to wake the lying baby in the nearby loveseat. She cries with both hands up, eyes closed and feet thudding into the cushion.

In a rush, with letter still in hand, Adelita reaches out and holds her tight. A smile filled with warmth and care shines on the baby enough to make her open both eyes. The child stops its wailing and responds with a giggle. Reaches upward and pulls Adelita’s hair with uncontrollable strength.

Wow, take it easy there… Easy, it’s okay. The baby continues to pull, while her tiny hand swirls to wrap the lady’s hair around.

You like my hair, huh? She says rubs her nose together with the child’s while speaks, Bu, Bu, Bu, Bu, Bu Bu. The baby chuckles once more. Such a beautiful sight. Yet pain remains in this woman’s chest. She lost her daughter- and son-in-law in such an unforeseen misfortune. Unnecessary pain and mental stress, weighing heavy. Heavy-hearted, with a cloudy mind; She takes her time to stand and in a careful slow pace moves toward the door. She senses the nearby mailman.

Back and forth, she would rock the child. Her cheeks red and plump that curves toward her bright hazel eyes. Only two pounds and a few ounces, and the child already possesses a bountiful lock of hair. After taking her eyes from the minor, she peeks through the window to the right. And with a protective reflex, squints her eyes to block the sudden rush of vibrant sunlight reflected from the snowy pavement. A frigid winter storm passed over a week ago. Yet the aftermath remains.

Which leaves hills of snow on the sidewalks and icy slopes in the most random areas. Oh, there he is! She shouts in excitement opens the door at the first sight. She rocks the baby while in wait; yet, with impatience as the man hikes his way to her door. In the summer, this would be a swift thirty seconds movement. Now this man is climbing over hills and valleys, while dodging death traps and meanwhile fighting away loose icicles falling from the leafless tree above.

Oh my, are you okay!? she queried with a tone that seemed indifferent.

Her eyes divert its attention from him to the fuss the baby makes from the draft that seethes between the door into the house.

I’m almost there…. Feels like a child again, what’s the name of the game… oh hopscotch. He continues as he hands her a bulk of letters.

Don’t look like you used to play it much. Replies with an uncanny smile.

Ha haha, now that I’ve thought about…. Shrugs; gives her a side eye, then retrace his footsteps onto the street. Meanwhile, Adelita, place the child under a thick brown wool blanket, she sifts through the letters with haste.

Found it! she proclaims. Then stands there, staring at the letter for almost ten minutes. Nervousness took hold of her body. After a sigh and an Okay! she pries the enclosed area with her pocketknife. Stands to stare at it once more. Hands shakes with anxiety, and her mind considers infinite negative possibilities. (Baby chuckles) Noticing the chuckle from the child, the frigid feeling of anxiety melts away. With a smile so pure, she stretches her finger to tickle her. The moment of truth. Adelita pulls the paper away from inside the envelope. With a deep breath she frees her thoughts and readies the heart to read… In her mind.

skip, skip, skip. Blah, blah, blah… Okay, the good part!

Yes! Oh my God, thank you. Muchas gracias! screaming at the top of her lungs in sheer excitement. Ecstatic, the once depressed, disheartened, melancholic lady regained her vibrancy and confidence. Afterward grabs the unconcerned child, jumps and frantically dances about the living room. The girl cackles with both hands up and her feet skips in a rhythm, as if she wants to dance. Adelita, then runs to open the front-door.

Thank you, mailman! A boisterous scream echoes from the mouth with her head poking from the doorjamb She kisses the baby on her rosy, soft puffy cheeks, I got custody of you, no one else can have you, I got custody of you! Struts about, while she holds the child. Who giggles and claps as she enjoys the ride? Adelita closes the door with one leg, she places the baby back under the covers.

Can’t get her sick now.

Back to the table, Adelita searches through the letters that remain. With her knife, she cuts and sift through the unnecessary junk in quickness. In a few moments, a letter appears: of importance, one that may determine their future together.

On the outside it reads; Sectarian City Bank of Devalona, To Adelita Okay… Okay… Calm down, it’s just a letter like the others. To quiet her heartbeat that races on all cylinders, she recites the words multiple times, with hands shaking from fear, as the letter pulls from the envelope.

All right… Positive thoughts… Positivity is key! both index and thumb aids to open it as her eyes read the words written after dear. She pauses. Swallows a heavy spit, wink twice and sigh. Afterward, sits on the chair behind and reread the words, only to find that they haven’t changed. Once again, her head looks to the floors. After a few more deep breaths, an irritable sigh dispersed from her mouth, which accompanies a breath strong enough to blow the letter to the side.

And another appears beneath with the name of ‘Reality…’ with a portion of it hidden. Hmm… Can’t get any worse than being denied of a loan, so… Tsk, to heck with it! Clicks her tongue, rips it open by hand and reads the untorn sections.

What… They place I wanted to rent is now vacant?

Just my luck, as soon as it’s open, I have no money… Ugh! … Why me!?

A tear slides along her cheek. With such mixed emotions, her frustration lingers. Sits on the edge of the chair with the letter still in hand, Adelita sighs. Turns her attention to the giggling baby with puffy cheeks and vibrant emerald green hazel eyes. The baby lays in a love seat behind her, plays with her own fingers and giggles while small bubbles appear at her mouth. It pops as her smile widens, noticing the gaze of her Nana.

You’re such a beautiful child… Adelita stretches over and rubs her finger along Asteria’s rosy right cheek.

You have my grandmother’s eyes. As if the child perceives the words, she giggles louder. After which, the child stretches both hands, clutches at her Nana’s hair, and twirls it around. Joyful smile transforms into a frown, while she ponders her child’s death. With the lack of any moral, financial and even emotional support. Perceives her life itself coming to a close strike her deep. Over 50 years of stress and insecurities eat away at her soul and in her mind, she wonders why the evil prevails.

But the child innocent laughter pulls her toward a more positive light. She may hold a second chance, with hope, her medicine, and most of all- her family. This house that feels empty and cold for far too long now becomes warm.

The bundle of joy who sits quiet for a few moments glances up to her grandmother and cries.

Oh, I’m sorry my princess. I didn’t mean to ignore you.

Holds her with a strong embrace in her arms of love and warmth. A gentle kiss on the cheek and crying stops and shifts to a chuckling smile. It reveals her small tongue and shiny gums with saliva. Rosy cheeks pull back toward the small light- brown toned with pinkish hues of ears. Small little nostril inhales and grows wide at every chuckle, which leads to such vibrant hazel eyes.

With the ambiance of a lake surrounded by fallen leaves and reflecting the sun’s rays on a fall afternoon. A sight to behold that melts the heart. Tu Nombre Es Asteria, Mi Piedra Preciosa, Mi Isla!

While time goes by, Asteria could talk before she walks. Her hair grows unruly with curls, as her Nana tries to comb it back. Sometimes she would cave in and braid it once in a while to keep the house clean from strands of hair, as tall as she, if not longer. Crawls on the wooden floor with a hair resting upon her back, with hands reaching toward her Nana. Asteria picks her up and sits the child on her lap.

You love my lap, don’t you?

Si, lap… Si… Giggles while she claps on repeat, bounces back and forth about until she leans too far over headfirst toward the floor.

Woah… stay still, we are high on this chair and don’t hit the table. Adelita proclaims, while she pulls away from the dinner table enough to allow the child more room. Adelita pull a book from a stack on the left side of the table. Opens it, while Asteria claps her hand with the word Libro, Libro, Libro! exclaiming on repeat.

Okay, okay…. you ready to listen now? On cue, Asteria become quiet, yet her body rocks in excitement, with rosy cheeks, pushed back with a smile. She turns to her Nana, touching her arm, Por Favor Nana… Por Favor!?

Si… now listen.

A vibrant cartoonish image of a brown little girl leaps throughout a house full of colors with long hair behind. Her joyful words echo from Adelita’s mouth as she reads

¡Nunca! Nunca Voy a… Nunca lo dejaré ir, Nunca Voy a! Nunca lo dejaré ir, Nunca mi Hermoso Cabello, Cabello. Nunca, Nunca mi Cabello, Nunca lo dejaré ir, ¡Nunca mi Cabello! ¡Nunca! ¡Nunca!. In the image, a brown skin girl runs through a multi-colored hallway with portraits on the walls and ground.

Behind her a cartoonish drawn pharaoh, a cheetah, Zebra and Giraffe dances on two feet, while they carry sections of her hair.

¡Nunca! ¡Nunca! Asteria sings while clapping her hands. Ecstatic and filled with joy as her Nana turns the page to read once more.

In a few months, Asteria walks. Her growth didn’t transmute to her height, unlike the child’s unruly hair that seems to become a forestry. Enough to embrace her small body twice over. Full of curls and wavy with a strong black color. It leads to her feet and when she walks the tips brush against the floor. While the long lashes close her eyes, below those furry eyebrows

Ring Ring Ring

Nana’s phone rings aloud, disturbing little Asteria’s joyful playtime. She grabs it from her bosom, as the device almost fumbles through her fingers. Tsk… Ay Dios Mios! she yells in aggravation. And before she flips it up to answer, a small yet energetic voice shouts her name. Nana, Abuela Aaaaaaaa! Asteria shouts aloud with both arms open wide stretches toward her grandmother.

Una momento por favor mi Corazón… She signals that she’s on a call. Asteria pouts once more, and sits, resting her head upon the chair.

Hola, Adelita speaking, she answers with a chuckle from Asteria’s actions.

Good, you seem happy. Seems like you have learned of the good news. Mm… Are you proficient in English? My Spanish is a little rough. A female voice comes from the receiver.

Si, um. one minute she hastens to a room and stands at the door. Yes, how may I help you?

Nice, So I’m Joy, the realtor of the building at 6th and parkway Avenue. I was wondering what your plans to come by, check on the building so we can discuss business further.

Building… Oh, do you mean the vacant storefront?

Yes, did you not receive my voicemail?

Voicemail… What’s that? I’m sorry I’m still somewhat new to this cell phone thingamajig, this was a present from a family member. I still own a rotary phone, yet always on the go.

Oh, that’s fine, let me know when it will be your earliest convenience.

Hmm… Unfortunately, I won’t be able to soon.

Well, what can we do to get you into these doors? I’ll assure you this, there will be nothing to disappoint.

I’m sure they have told me many wonderful things about your company. But the loan I hoped to receive got denied, so I won’t be able to put anything up front.

Damn, such sad news. Well, Ms. Joy brings great news that will bring you much joy.

Huh, Excuse me?

I mean ... Ahem… So, loan or not, it’s okay. I am, though, curious about what business you’re trying to start and if I like it, we could be business partners. Keep in mind, you won’t have to worry about payments at the moment.

So, I would pay you based on sales and equity… correct?

Smart lady, I like you even more now. That’s indeed correct… but I’m a fair individual, I’d rather have long-lasting relationships in this fleeting life of yours.

Hmm… I guess…

So, when can you get here?

Tomorrow evening the soonest, I need to find someone to babysit my…. (pauses and faces Asteria for a moment.)

Yes, you were saying?

Apologies, I will need to find someone to watch Asteria while I’m away.

Oh, you are with young… surprising for a lady of your age. (Pauses for a second; realizes her demeaning words.) Hmm… I apologize for my manners that’s rude of me. I’m a bit sarcastic with a morbid sense of humor, a habit picked up from working with a few asswipes in the offices uptown. Stocks and trading and such. Please don’t see me as offensive or obscene.

Well, I guess that somewhat believable…

Nothing but the truth, I swear it. So how about a cup of coffee, whatever beverage you like over a brief talk about the future, huh?

Hmm… I guess… Okay, how about 10? Adelita gives in.

Sounds like a plan, great I’ll meet you tomorrow. Please bring your two forms of identification, pay stubs and proof of address, and your other business papers. If you have a lawyer to represent you, that’s fine. Have a good evening and cheers to us women making our way!

Hangs up.

…. Sure….

On 8th Liberty Street stands an immense glass building, which has no peer. Its elegant interior garners the attention of many. Enough to make the stiff competition revel in jealousy. And a sign drawn on wood in weathered colors sits at the center of the entrance door. That reads Real Property- Envoy. It swings when the glass door opens as a couple walks through the entrance.

Before they enter, a bird pitches on the male’s right shoulder for a moment, and to the female, it chirps twice, flock its wings as it glides around until lands on a nearby branch where it made its nest. Unbothered, they continue in. While two eyes gaze upon them through binoculars within an all-black vehicle. And turns its direction to the tree after a time.

See anything? a deep voice asks, lurking in the shadows and gazes at the bird while it feeds its young. And, as though it realizes the watchful eyes. The bird in question turns at a slow, rigid pace.

Click… Click… Click… its lethargic movements become somewhat sinister. Whilst its eye pops and turn up, downward and around. It then showcases its dark red eyes to the onlooker and screams in such a loud ghastly voice, that’s naturally impossible for the size of its body, with its peak opened to its feet.

Oi! The man gasps for air, drops the binoculars in his lap. The scene replays in his mind.

Uh… well that’s new…

I agree, but let’s leave before they find us. Something feels amiss. Engine rolls over, and in a haste, he drives toward the intersection, makes a right and continues to the highway.

Within the building a light-skinned Lady knocks twice and walks into the open-door office. She wears a skin-tight red dress, which stops at her knees and multiple folders at the edge of her modest breasts.

So, Ms. Joy… The lady speaks; but she did not receive an answer and decides to yell louder in irritation. Hello…. Ms. Joy! Still no response.

Ugh, it’s too early for this! With an apologetic smile, she gestures and asks the individuals to sit in the nearby chairs for a few moments. And walks closer toward the desk, with a massive pile of paperwork.

I wonder how many trees we destroy to create such a contrite mess of paper upon this wooden desk? She speaks while leans in her chair facing the window. Mm… Tell them to check on the central air again. It’s warm in here… She continues with eyes closed and hands folded.

Well, that would be my temper… Why do you not answer when I call out to you, Ms. Joy!

She shifts around and leans over the desk, faces the lady in a red dress; and hair that seems to be a fiery wave that stands upward and sparks. With an inquisitive expression and slant eyes, she responds

Don’t get loud with me and turn the heat down. Don’t let me get that bucket of ice again… It’s expensive!

That is not nice. I demand a raise for this improper treatment… and prejudice.

Oh, really… Pouring ice on someone who could burn down my entire livelihood is prejudice? but, in the conversation’s midst she shivers. As memory recalls of Ms. Joy, in a fit throw a drum of ice at her while being pinned against the wall as she screams for dear life.

I was having a bad day and… Ms. Joy stares with indifference. I’m sorry. I’ll try harder to control my temper and not set this place ablaze.

Oh, it’s fine, everything here is fire retardant… excluding this paperwork, I ask you to burn multiple times, yet you refuse to, like what’s your purpose?

With all due respect… Stop being lazy and do your job!

Well, you’re fired!

Yes… that is my race…

From frustration, Joy almost slammed her head into the desk but, before she could utter another witty comment, her security barges into the room.

Excuse me, there has been a sighting again from across the street at 10:00, this time one man all-black…

Okay, I’ll take care of it. And keep your voice down when you speak of such things. I don’t want my prospects to get alarmed… Okay?

Yes Ma’am, understood Ma’am!

Ugh… dismissed Demetri… Dismissed!

Wow, he literally is beyond obnoxious! Ascot speaks, with an annoyed and disgruntled tone…

I never liked him, and he walks about with his chest too high… Like it’s bigger than mines!

Well Ascot, first no comment. And, one thing I for sure know. That man does his job and everything I say unlike…

Speaking of jobs; how did that conversation go with um. Searches through the files in her hand.

Oh, Ms. Adelita uh-no last name…

Changing the subject, huh? It’s perfect; she will meet us tomorrow between ten and eleven presumedly. Since she’s with child, unforeseeable things happen.

Between, not at, or even near, but Between… Have you lost your mind? I have no time for this between!

Ascot…. breathe… Ascot takes deep breaths to relax her mind and temper.

Good, steam started to come from your head. Last thing I need. And quit talking to me like that.

Sorry, I’m like fire I get quite infuriated easily and…

Shh… it’s okay we’ve known each other for quite some time, I get the memo.

Sure, it’s been over a thousand years ma’am….

Regrettably…

Ugh… my soul?

I figured it became burned out a long time ago….

Gasps.… Bitch!

Bahahaha… They laugh at the top of their lungs from an inside joke that only they both can appreciate.

Now bring in my prospects. Today we make millions.

Yeah…. about that…

Oh no, what happened?

The promising ones are next week, these are hmm… regulars.

Oh. Either way, if they can read the sign and chirpy gives them a pass, and by protocol, it’s our duty to help.

Yes, it is, one moment please while I bring them in.

She walks out of the office toward the couple and back with them behind, in a mere minute.

This is our Realtor and business owner Ms. Joy. she proclaims with a smile, while a hand stretches toward her direction.

"If I may say, the small words under the sign which said something different, and they told me I would meet the Wh…

Uh uh… nope, no, we don’t use that word here. The name is Ms. Joy. Please be seated and only use the name, Ms. Joy! I will close the door behind you. There is nothing to fear you’re in safe hands. Ma’am, the floor is yours.

"Hm. Why thank you… Either way, don’t be afraid, have a seat and be comfortable.

Dammit, wish I could change that sign! She thinks to herself, as her prospects speak.

Hello there, it is a surprise that your firm opens so late. The man states while he offers his wife a seat and follow suit. Ms. Joy smiles as she replies, Well, you know what these humans say the cousin of sleep is death. Hence, I stay open as long as possible. Well, right now only three of us here. Have to keep the labor cost in check! She states while she opens their file and skims through the pages.

Ha ha-ha… yeah… Mm… pretty sure the saying doesn’t go that…

So, since you could read the small print, I suspect that you’re of a different kind correct? And if I may ask, what’s the reason for your move and where you want to be transported to?

Oh, so you are the Wh…

I am what I am, many called me by different names, but here… as you can determine the name sign on my desk, it states Ms. Joy. I would appreciate if you use it. Thank you!

Wife: Oh we sorry, we are so excited and…

No worries, so your reason to stay or move please, as many details as possible.

Husband: Well, He touches her hand with a gentle smile. We want to start a family. And we both felt this city would be accommodating... no?

Oh, it’s very accommodating… for humans, uh. Here’s the thing. As long as you can compose your nature and continue your impersonation, then you’ll fit right in. But if you see the need to act rashly… Let’s just say, I wouldn’t recommend it. States with a strong glare.

Oh no, were very peaceful and have no intention of being otherwise.

Okay, the first test passed…. unto the next.

Mm… Excuse me, a test, this all is a test?

Yeah, I ask you a bunch of questions, where you want to stay, how much money, learn your personality, get you a job Yadi, Yada, yah. Get the gist?

Uh… so far I guess… I’m gisting?

Good. Keep gisting then I guess. Oh, um… you might want to re-wrap your husk, that’s coming from your head.

Oh….

Yeah, don’t need any unwanted attention. So, judging from that your race is Cervi correct?

Yes, ma’am…

Okay good. Let’s talk finances and location!

While the sun sets, she lets down the drapery to hide the blinding sunshine. Meantime Solenha sighs shoving the file cabinet with great strength closed with both hands and head hung downwards. The warm rays shine through the windows in great array. It warms her chilly body that’s been in the office since 7 am. Her eyes lit ablaze while she stares into the sun as if a moth to fire. Yet, she embraces the flames.

Hey… Matchstick you okay?

That’s racist….

Yeah, yeah, it’s not like if I scratch you there’ll be fire.

Well, how about I repeatedly scratch myself, so we can find out huh… Ms. coy Joy!

Calm now Solenha, ahem…I mean Ascot. There’s no harm in leaving some things as theories. But in all seriousness, you okay? I realize your body tend to get weak at night, sometimes even sick. I’ve learned your kind also frequently die at night.

And how many times have I gotten sick or weak during the nighttime, hmm… And Solenha is fine if it’s just the two of us.

Sure, but for consistency, I’ll use Ascot. And, well, your head was hanging down between your arms so, I had a little concern.

Huh…. you’re concerned??? Wait how much money did those guys pay you?

Money isn’t the key to happiness Ascot… You know this! Replies with a smirk and leans on the wall beside her.

"Unlike the personification you represent, you do not practice what you preach so spare