The Ghost of Bertha Mae Book II

By Carolyn Virginia Parnell

Desperate to save her life, Yvette returned to her hometown, Selma, Alabama. She sought help from her grandparents, and searched for Miss Christine, the lady who had played an important part in her childhood, a woman of faith and a clairvoyant. Could she possibly put an end to Bertha Mae’s ghost?

A year had passed, and Yvette continued being haunted and violently beaten by her mother’s ghost in her sleep and even in broad daylight.

Fearing for her life, Yvette’s days were nearly as horrible as her nights, merely existing, not knowing when Bertha Mae’s haint would appear in the ceiling, burst through the wall, sit on top of her while asleep, violently whip her, or choke her nearly to death.

Filled with despair, at one point she nearly gave up, but was convinced to fight to save her life. She deserved to live and find happiness. But could she find the will to fight her mother’s haint? Would she survive?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Page Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Dec 1, 2021
• ISBN: 9781662401664

Book preview

Part One

How does one cope with the pain and sorrow

of sending the love of her life away?

Who has strength, perseverance to go on

for years, trying to live, knowing

that her mother’s haint will attack and

try to take her life, and, if she lived,

remain sane?

Chapter 1

As Yvette drove to Selma from Montgomery, she briefly thought of David. She had spoken to him just before leaving Maliyah’s home. He had been excited hearing her voice, telling her how much better she sounded.

She told him that hearing his voice caused her to feel joy. Which was true, but she also felt guilty because the night before she had been thinking that she should let him go. He deserved to have someone who wasn’t fighting a haint. A normal woman. A woman that was his equal in every sense.

She dared not tell him about the woman in Jamaica until it was a sure thing. However, she would let her grandparents and father know as soon as she returned to Selma. She would tell Miss Christine when next she spoke to her. She hoped everything would be over soon because she was wearing thin. Her subconscious mind was beginning to become her conscious one, and that wasn’t something she could let happen. It would send her over the edge. She had been close to it once before. If it happened this time, she wouldn’t be able to return. She wouldn’t allow her mother’s haint to triumph over her in her death.

Less than an hour later, she arrived in Selma. There was another car parked near her grandparents. As she exited her car, she looked at the license plates. They were from Chicago. She scratched her head as she bounded up the steps, wondering who would be visiting.

Entering the front door, she heard muffled voices. Therefore, she couldn’t tell who belonged to the car outside. She pulled her suitcases into the front room.

When she turned around, she saw her brother, Charles, and who she believed was her sister, Doris, standing, both grinning widely, gazing at her.

Yvette practically screamed with youthful joy at seeing her two siblings. She quickly embraced Charles, holding him for a long moment. My baby brother, it’s wonderful seeing you. How long has it been? No, don’t tell me. At least five years. You look great!

You’re so right, big sister, five years. It’s great seeing you as well. I just wish it was… You have grown even more beautiful. I never told you, but I always thought you were pretty when we were younger, he offered, hugging her once more."

She teased, I wouldn’t have believed you then. Now I do. Thanks, Charles.

She turned, looking at Doris, seeing a small resemblance around the mouth and the shape of the body, which was much like hers. Even though she saw her, it was difficult believing she was real. Her sister, Doris Jean, a sister she hadn’t ever seen.

Tears formed in Yvette’s eyes, but she refused to let them fall. Let me hug you, my dear baby sister. I’m so very, very happy that you have been found and to finally see you. My, I just can’t believe you’re here. All those years and now I have another sister in my life. She pulled away from Doris, whose tears were falling like a tiny stream from a running brook. She took Doris’s hand, leading her to the sofa.

I can’t believe it either, Doris said eagerly. "When I was told by the private detective who found me that I had other siblings, I thought he was pulling my leg. It must have taken a week to sink in and get past the shock. Then I became angry because I had been given away. I don’t know why. Because I already knew that.

"Then Charles and I met and talked and talked and talked for hours, then days. He told me about his and your childhood. After hearing how miserable it was, I was astounded, sad, and angry all at the same time. I’m so sorry that you had a horrible life growing up.

"I was very blessed. My mother and father were wonderful people. They gave me all the love I needed, and finally told me when I was around eight years old that I wasn’t their biological child and had been given to them when I was a baby. They explained that I was special, because God had placed me with them.

"I’m so glad they told me when I was little. It didn’t matter to me because they were my mama and daddy. When I became a teen, I thought about my real mother in passing, but I was never sad. I had so much to live and be happy for. You see, by that time, we were living in New York and I was enjoying school and my friends and visiting all the wonderful places, the ones we were allowed, if you know what I mean.

Then I was hit with devastating news that I will always remember. She paused, her eyes filling with pain. For a long moment, she bowed her head.

No one said anything.

Finally, she raised her head, clearing her tears with both hands. She lifted her head toward the ceiling, smiled slightly, turning her attention back to Yvette. "Five years ago, we had a horrible snowstorm, one of the worst ever. Mama and Daddy had gone out to dinner to celebrate their anniversary. On their way home, there was a whiteout. They were hit head-on and passed right away.

It was the most horrific time in my life. Fortunately, I had relatives that came to be with me and made all the arrangements for the double funeral. I loved them so much and I miss them dearly, but I have all the wonderful memories they gave me to help comfort me.

Yvette embraced her, understanding the feeling of losing a love one. However, she had only bad memories. I’m so glad that you have those loving memories of your parents. And I’m so sad that they are no longer living, except in your heart.

All the while the exchanges were taking place, Catherine, Joseph, Frederick, and Charles sat, observing them, their own emotions fleetingly passing.

Yvette kept her arm around Doris’s shoulder as she turned her attention to everyone else in the room. She, too, was filled with so many emotions, she didn’t quite know where to begin. Here was her sister and brother, one she hadn’t seen in years and the other, ever. Yet, she had to spoil it due to her imminent threat. She removed her arm from Doris’s shoulder, walking over to her grandparents.

After embracing them, Catherine went into the kitchen to finish preparing dinner. The rest of them sat listening to Charles and Doris speak to Yvette. They talked about their past adventures in their lives and the people currently in them.

Later, Catherine interrupted them, announcing dinner was served. They crowded around the table, bringing in two straight chairs to accommodate everyone. Catherine looked around, assessing the situation. Everything was not to her liking.

Alright, everyone, let’s all of us stand around the table and let Joe say grace. Then let’s take our plates dig in, get our food, and all go into the living room because it’s way too crowded in here, only room for four chairs at the table and there are six of us These extra chairs make me feel like I’m going to suffocate. I need space. So, we’ll have a picnic of the sort. The men can take the chairs back to the other room later. I hope that’s alright with everyone. She concluded with a bright smile.

In unspoken agreement, they all held hands with heads bowed while Joseph said grace. After the amens and Bible verses were said, everyone except Catherine filled their plates and gathered in the living room.

Shortly, Catherine carried in a tray of iced tea, setting it on the coffee table, then returned to the kitchen to prepare her plate. Unlike the others, except for Yvette, she was careful about her portions. She ate small meals to avoid overeating. However, she had a great love for preparing food. It gave her great satisfaction seeing others enjoy their meals.

Small talk passed between them while they relished on the meal of roast turkey, a pork roast browned to perfection, fried corn, corn bread dressing, creamed potatoes, fresh green beans, yams, and biscuits so fluffy and high, Yvette nearly cheered with delight.

Catherine entered the living room, and sat next to Joseph. He beheld her, winking, munching on his butter-filled biscuit. She blew him an air-kiss.

Grandmother, you did all this cooking and it’s not a holiday. It looks wonderfully delicious and tasty. You’re brilliant, thoughtful, and an amazing chef. Thank you so much, Yvette praised, giving Catherine a peck on her cheek.

Catherine chuckled, offering, "Baby girl, you give me so much credit, and I love you for it. Your dear sister Doris helped me cook most of it before your return, and I must say, she’s good too. You did say you would be returning today.

They arrived yesterday morning, and we decided to have a mini family reunion of the sort, she said excitedly. Doris has a lot of energy, considering the travel and the time change, not to mention the difference in the weather this time of year."

Doris chimed in. Yes, I did help some, but Grandmother can move quicker in that kitchen than a cat can run up a tree when a dog is chasing it. She has loads of energy, more than me. She tired me out, and I had to take a break, she finished and laughed, revealing beautiful teeth and a slight dimple in her right cheek.

Joseph grinned, nodding in agreement. Yes, that’s my Cat, alright. I don’t know where she gets her energy, but she’s had it ever since we’ve been married, and she’s never taken any vitamins or none of that iron medicine that older folks take.

Everyone thanked her for cooking the delicious meal, promising they would try not to hurt themselves by overeating.

An hour later, after finishing their meal, they marched into the kitchen, returning their plates. Joseph, Frederick Sr., and Charles insisted on cleaning the kitchen while the women relaxed. This gave Yvette a chance to speak to Doris about her dire dilemma.

In her attempt to do so, she learned that much had been told to Doris and Charles since their arrival because their grandparents and Frederick Sr. didn’t want her to relive the evil occurrences that had been happening to her.

Relief flashed on Yvette’s face. Hence, they chatted about Doris’s life. She had a small boutique business with a partner in a busy area of New York. She didn’t have a serious relationship with anyone as she didn’t have much time for dating. She was too busy finishing her degree in advertising, traveling several times a year, establishing business partners and suppliers for their busy boutique. As a matter of fact, Doris told Yvette the business was thriving, and she and her partner were thinking of opening another boutique in downtown Chicago the following year.

That’s great, Doris. I’m happy and proud of you. You were smart to pursue and get your degree in advertising. I must visit you when everything works out here. Your business sounds charming. I do love the boutiques in Seattle. They carry wonderfully unique things that regular department stores don’t.

The men walked into the room, abruptly ending their girl talk. For a while, there was small talk and light teasing, and laughing about events that Catherine and Joseph told during their younger years, then the conversation turned serious.

Catherine peered at Yvette, who suddenly seemed excited and, at the same time, somewhat nervous. She had noticed during their lively conversation that while Yvette seemingly was tentative, there was something on her mind. Now, Yvette needed the opportunity to speak. She decided to help her begin.

Everyone, I believe that Yvette may have something that she wants to tell us, Catherine said lightly, giving Yvette a special smile, encouraging her to let it all out because she was among people who loved her, and would be supportive until she conquered her enemy.

Yvette smiled, nodding at Catherine, whom she had grown to love very much. They had a connection that had formed quickly, and now their bond was almost like that of mother and daughter.

"Yes, I do have some important information that I wish to share with you all. Grandmother and Granddad know that I have a friend that lives in Montgomery, but is from Jamaica. We met last year in Montgomery and liked each from the beginning. Now she’s a very dear friend, one whom I decided to tell what’s happening to me. When I told her, she never doubted or formed an opinion of me.

Interesting enough, she’s heard of something similar that’s happening to me, and knows of an old special woman who may be able to help me.

Everyone began speaking excitedly at the same time. Yvette held her hand in the air and said, I know this is something that may be shocking to you all, and even inspiring as well. I must say that I’m very encouraged, but I also know that it may be a long shot as well. She paused to allow questions to be thrown at her.

Yvette, this certainly sounds like there may be something this old special woman, as you say, can do for you. Can you tell us more about her? Frederick Sr. inquired.

Everyone nodded in agreement. That certainly was the question on all their minds. All eyes gazed at Yvette, waiting.

"I’m sorry. I didn’t even tell you my friend’s name. It’s Maliyah. I call her Mali. She’s a dentist and has a partnership. She’s the kind of person that has that special sense of being able to feel the good and bad in people. She can sense evil spirits but can’t and doesn’t want to do anything about them. She knew there was one around me, thus, my telling her my story.

"Anyway, this old special woman is a part of the entire family on the island. She lives alone, and can see haints, and have ways of getting rid of them. Years ago, when she was a child, this old woman saved another woman from a haint. Mali didn’t know much about it because her parents didn’t allow it. It seems that it has something to do with our African ancestors and some of the practices which were brought over here hundreds of years ago.

However, she’s out of town, which is rare because she seldom leaves the island. I understand that her uncle, who went to New York on business, became ill, and she went to take care of him. There’s no date when she will return, or even if I can see her. Mali will do all that she can, I know that.

This all sounds promising, Joseph said, and I’m not trying to raise doubt, but what about Miss Christine? How will she fit into this?

I told Mali about Miss Christine. They have previously met. Mali understands and suggested that when I meet with the old special woman, I tell her that Miss Christine is clairvoyant. That she can read minds, have visions, warns people, and save lives. I don’t know what is going to happen until we speak to Miss Christine.

At least Bertha Mae’s haint hasn’t been attacking you as of late, but I do know that it deeply affects you, not knowing when it will occur. I wish there was something that I could do to help you, sis, Charles said, his eyes filled with sincerity and love. He was furious at their mother’s haint, wishing he could, just by thinking, zap her where she needed to be, which he believed was in hell.

It seemed that everyone thought Bertha Mae was bound for hell. Hmm.

You’ve always been there for me, Charles, in any way that you could help. You have done enough, and I love you for trying.

You know how I feel about her. I know that she didn’t love us, and she was bent on hurting you just for the hell of it. He paused, then said, "You all please excuse my disrespect, but you weren’t around to see and hear my sister cry out for mercy when our mother beat her. I could never love someone that did what she did to her own child.

"I sometimes wonder if she asked God to forgive her for her wrongdoing. Each time I do, I come up with the same answer. She lied to us. She didn’t ask for forgiveness, and that’s probably the reason she wants to take Yvette’s life and try and live hers over again, if there’s such a thing. No. That’s not right. I know that we only get one life on this earth. She’s…It’s in for a rude awakening."

I have heard that our African ancestors believe in the dead being incarnated by being reborn into babies, but never have I heard of a dead person trying to take over someone’s body and relive their own, Joseph offered, then uplifted a silent prayer.

Well, it would be like Bertha Mae to try and do something like this, Charles stated as a matter of fact. I know that Grandmother and Granddad loved their daughter, and feels miserable about this situation and wants to help as much as they can. Consequently, I know what I’m about to suggest won’t set right with them. I hate this house and everything that happened in it related to my mother.

He went on to explain how they went without decent living conditions, proper clothes, and oftentimes their clothes were dirty and raggedy, and dirty underwear was worn for days. They didn’t get their hair combed and washed properly, or regularly. They had ringworms that lasted for months because their mother didn’t do anything until one of the neighbors noticed and questioned her. She only took them to the doctor because she feared her welfare check would be stopped. It was because of her that they, especially Yvette, didn’t have friends like the other girls. She was an awful mother, Charles stated this with such naked emotion that he had to pause.

Doris, hearing Charles tell his story, sobbed several times, empathizing with their painful memories. Even though Charles tried speaking with dignity and little emotion, it was most difficult. Sometimes he wished that his mother had never given birth to them, especially him.

Because they went hungry and never had proper food to eat, this caused Yvette sometimes to steal food from the neighbors and give it to him and Annie Mae, who were always grateful for a bite of food. Miss Christine even gave them food, and had helped Yvette as much as she could, considering much of the time, Yvette didn’t have much freedom.

He even mentioned the incident with the men that tried raping Yvette and their mother’s defense for them rather than her daughter.

When Doris heard that, she looked at Yvette, who sat with a stone face, but her eyes were flooded with tears.

I’m so sorry, Yvette, that I could do nothing to save you from her. I have, more often than not, thought of how badly we were treated, and you the worst. I don’t love our mother. I have prayed for forgiveness because I shouldn’t feel that way, and that I won’t hate her for what she did to us, and especially to you. It took me years to come to grips with the horror that she did. I guess I blocked a lot of the dreadfulness so that I could survive. Then when I felt that I could go out and began to really live, be close to a normal human being, to find a woman that I could love, I was so afraid. And even now, I still have a great fear that I may be in some ways like her. Charles stopped speaking.

Yvette, sitting close to him, moved, sitting next to him, hugging, and comforting him. "I know that you hated every moment of what she did to me. I want you to try and live your life, be as happy as you can, knowing that you are loved. First, you are loved by all of us, and someday you will fall in love with a wonderful woman who will cherish you as you are, not for what you’ve been through. You’re nothing like our mother.

I totally understand what you’re going through. I went through it for years until I finally decided to trust someone other than Freddie. It’s the man that I love so dearly, but most of all, he loves me more. Just open your heart and trust, my dear brother.

"Thank you. I’ll try to remember that the next time I meet a nice lady. Now, let me continue because I’ve never talked to anyone else about our childhood, except for Doris.

"At a very young age, I knew that our mother didn’t love us, and she seemed determined to hurt Yvette as much as possible without killing her. Sometimes Annie Mae and I would get a chance to whisper about it. As I grew older, I tried staying out of her sight because she was so mean and made Yvette do all the things a mother was supposed to do. I grew up disliking her, never loving her.

Even though she became ill later in life, according to Yvette, she seemed a changed woman. She began going to church again, even asked God for forgiveness before the entire congregation, for mistreating her children. Evidently, she was putting on an act, or she wouldn’t be trying to kill Yvette to relive her life. I find this very strange, trying to comprehend how someone can, in a haunted spirit, attack and try to take over their daughter’s body, Charles said, pausing, it seemed, to think about his statement. No one said anything. They waited, sensing that he had more to say. Then he continued.

"My answer is that she lied, knowing that she had deceived us and when it was time for her to go where the dead spirits go after death. She didn’t want to because it was not the place she thought she was going. Yes, she died without loving us, and she knew that Yvette was the only one that did love her. Our Yvette, the one with the heart of a living angel, could never hate her, and forgave her for all that she had done to her.

I believe that she thinks Yvette is weak and helpless as she was when she was a child. He paused briefly, gazing at his sister, then smiled sadly. Except she’s not that child anymore and she was never weak. She’s very strong, and Bertha Mae’s haint knows that. Otherwise, she would have be— He stopped because he didn’t want to say the awful words. He didn’t want to say the awful words everyone knew. He finished, sitting back against the sofa. Inside, he finally felt some sense of relief.

For some reason, I can sense that she’s lurking about. Since she thinks she can outsmart us, maybe we should tell some stories about her. Maybe she needs to hear what we think about her. Then again, it may cause things to be worse for Yvette, Frederick Sr. said, reneging his first suggestion.

Do you really think the stories may serve to shame her? You’re right, Fred, I think it may be best not to. I believe she may be more apt to hurt Yvette, Catherine said, looking at Joseph.

Joseph said, Well, the way I see it, as a person and a man of God, I believe it’s not goodwill to speak badly of the dead whether they were good or evil. Perhaps we should pray for her soul instead.

No one said anything for a long second while everyone thought about Joseph’s suggestion. The room filled with a sense of unwanted malice, not from those sitting in it, but from Bertha Mae’s haint. Then it departed.

Yvette cleared her throat before speaking. "I hear what you’re saying, Granddad, and I understand the part about speaking ill of the dead. However, I believe that in this case, there’s a need to talk about her. Maybe it’s because we as siblings never had the opportunity to be together to do that. I know Charles feels some relief, and maybe it will give Doris some insight about our mother. I’m sorry it’s all negative.

"I’ve been helped by David, and Freddie, who has a wonderful wife, and he somehow managed to become a loving, giving man and husband. Charles, too, has somehow managed to become a terrific man, and now that he’s finally spoke about his past, he can finally be free of her and happy.

The same goes for Annie Mae, who is doing very well. She’s in love and earning a great living. She couldn’t be here because of an emergency at her job, but she sends her love to all of us. And… She turned, looking at Doris. She’s overwhelmed and excited learning that she has another sister, and is looking forward to seeing you.

Her easy tone changed, becoming frustrated. "While it may seem that we may speak ill of Bertha Mae, we’re speaking facts and our feelings. Frankly, I’m tired of being treated like a piece of trash by her haint. She seems to think I’m inhuman. I don’t know why I’m surprised, considering my childhood.

It’s difficult to believe that she hated me for twenty-seven years, my entire life, it seems, even though she left me alone for several years. I believe it’s time that she just goes on where she belongs. I don’t understand why she feels she can just take my life from me. That’s not acceptable and contemptible.

Suddenly, there was a pungent odor in the room. It smelled of burning meat of some kind, not fit for human consumption. The bitter smell violated their breathing. All of them frowned, yet said nothing as they began to move to the front door for fresher air.

Open the windows, Joseph ordered in a firm voice. Frederick Sr. and Charles moved quickly, raising the windows almost before Joseph finished speaking, then returned, taking their seats.

That’s her, Yvette offered, embracing herself, it seemed, for comfort.

That, my family, is the smell of an evil spirit, Joseph said in a quiet voice.

Catherine bowed her head, moving her lips in prayer, then peered at her husband, her eyes gleaming mysteriously. Joseph and family, I have an idea. Why don’t we burn everything that Yvette and I found beneath the steps that Bertha Mae buried? This is a way of getting rid of her…I mean she’s gone in the great sense of the word, but she left behind things that should never have been dealt with while she lived. The woman practiced a form of voodoo of all things. We should burn it all, she offered.

Everyone decided, happily agreeing with Catherine’s suggestion. The men went into the backyard where the old black iron pot was stored, turned it over, gathered some twigs and tree branches, starting a fire. It was a late April warm evening, so the men stood around the pot talking about basketball and their favorite teams.

Inside, Yvette, Catherine, and Doris sat in Yvette’s bedroom while Yvette tried on the unique pale-blue jumpsuit Doris had given her from Paris, France. It was fantastic, fitting Yvette as if it had been made for her.

Yvette hugged Doris several times, thanking her for the wonderful gift and guessing her correct size. Tears of happiness hugged her cheeks. She quickly brushed them aside, grinning at her sister whom she loved as if they had grown up together.

Doris, I can’t get over it. This, you…I can’t thank you enough. I see why you do so well in your business. You have magnificent taste, and are great at guessing sizes. I wear a size four, and I love pastels, especially jumpsuits with wide high hugging belts. You’re gifted, knowing what kind of items people like and what looks good on them. I can’t wait to wear this out somewhere in Seattle.

Doris laughed. You know all that from the outfit that I gave you. You, my sister, is one brilliant observer. We have a kinship connection. You know me, because you’re right. My customers love the clothes I purchase from different parts of the world. They keep returning, bringing friends and do more advertising for me than one would ever expect. Besides, I love making people smile.

Catherine voiced, Well, Doris, I will say you certainly know how to make your sister happy. Just the idea of you doing such a wonderful thing for her… Her voice trailed off as she began losing her composure.

Yvette rewrapped her outfit in the soft, bright tissue it came in, placing it back in the box, closing it. Then turning to Doris and Catherine.

Alright, it’s time to do this. Let’s go and get rid of some awful things that still remain in our lives. The others nodded in agreement, following Yvette to the back of the house where she had stored the tin boxes and its contents. She removed them from the floor beneath her storage closet, and together they ventured into the backyard.

Handing the boxes to Joseph, Yvette stood back while he and Charles removed the contents and threw them unceremoniously into the hot fire. Quickly, the yellow and orange fire gobbled the contents, sending tiny fragments twirling around in the black pot.

Suddenly, a screeching sound rang out as if someone was being tortured.

Everyone instantly jumped back from the black belly pot, except Frederick Sr. In a formidable voice, he said, How dare you try and kill her.

Immediately, the wails stopped, and the flames diminished. It was over. At least this part of Bertha Mae’s legacy, little that it was.

Let’s go back inside, everyone, Joseph suggested, turning and moving away from the dying embers.

No one said anything as they shadowed him inside the house, eager to get away from the strangeness, particularly Charles. However, he held back from the others as they entered the house.

His warm brown eyes took on a pondering look. They were here to help Yvette, but this dilemma was discerning. They wanted and needed to find a way to stop their mother’s haint from continuing to harm Yvette before she became too weak; she would die or go insane, then perish.

The only clues they had were that of Miss Christine, who knew little about freeing people of evil haints, and an old special woman they all knew nothing about. It was alarming to think that such unrealistic things like taking over one’s body existed. He shoved his hands into his pants pockets as he had years ago, moving to the back door, pausing to gaze at the black pot for the last time.

The fire had turned to ashes, but he thought he saw a shadow standing next to it. He blinked, looking again; seeing nothing, he entered the house.

The image remained next to the black belly pot.

Chapter 2

Miss Christine had arrived home earlier that day. She had been in California assisting a friend recuperating from surgery. Earlier that year, she had a vision that showed that the doctors were missing a small lump under her right breast. With Miss Christine’s insistence, her friend had gone to another doctor who found the lump in time and thus required major surgery, saving her friend’s life.

After being home for a short time, Miss Christine had been in her parlor going through some mail. While reading, a vision appeared. She saw that Yvette had visited her friend Maliyah and spoke to her about Bertha Mae’s haint trying to destroy her life and capture her soul to relive her life. Maliyah had been supportive and helpful by contacting her mother to seek help. An old special woman, they called her, would possibly help, but wasn’t available. Then the vision disappeared.

Miss Christine placed the unread mail on the table and sat thinking about the visualization. She bowed her head in prayer, asking for guidance. Then she read her Bible for some time because reading it always helped bring her great calmness and allowed her to think with more clarity.

Tired from her trip, she went into her room and lay across her bed. Soon, she slept soundly.

While sleeping, she turned on her side, placing her hand beneath her face, smiling. Then Miss Christine saw her. The old special woman she was sure that Maliyah had spoken to Yvette about. However, the woman didn’t appear old at all. Her face was youthful, her shiny dark hair showing no signs of gray. Her eyes were clear as those of a child, filled with great pools of occurrences that no one would ever see but her. The beliefs of the old special woman weren’t the same as most others. Her roots were from Africa, and they believed that evil spirits could take over another’s body. While she would be able to most likely help Yvette in the beginning, the result would be the death of Yvette. She saw Yvette lying in her coffin. Miss Christine’s eyes fluttered in her sleep.

It was as if she was trying to wake herself. Then she saw a vision of Bertha Mae’s haint. It was awful. She was hideous, like a ghoul that had seen the gates of hell and had been frightened beyond the grave. She smelled of bitter roots and rotten flesh. It was an odor that would kill people who smelled it for short time. She was surrounded by dark shadows, and far away, in the distance, it seemed, a glimmer of light, just barely. Bertha Mae paid it no attention as she sat on a low stump, grumbling to herself about all the people Yvette was surrounded by, and how they interfered with her plans to kill her soon. Soon, she would find a way. Her red eyes full of the devil’s wrath.

Miss Christine sat straight up in her sleep, her eyes still closed. Once again, she saw the old special woman, and then Bertha Mae. She opened her eyes and the vision was gone, but it was engraved in her mind.

She felt drained. She slowly pulled her body from the bed, going into her bathroom where she drew a hot tub of water, sitting in it for an hour.

After bathing and slipping on a dressing gown, she walked slowly into the kitchen to make coffee. She wasn’t hungry even though a very close friend’s daughter, who kept the house clean and purchased food when she traveled across the country, had prepared a meal for her.

It was very clear to her that she needed to visit Yvette and her family and tell them about her visions, and warn her about her life. She would do that early in the morning, she decided.

As Miss Christine sipped her coffee, her thoughts turned to ghosts. One of the worst things that the living could encounter was the dead who weren’t at peace. Everyone in the Deep South, in some ways, knew about ghosts, even the children. At one time or the other, many of them had encountered spirits, most of which were harmless, returning to see their loved ones and saying wordless goodbyes before going to their resting places.

Even so, the lost ones who weren’t at peace made it their business to torment the living. She saw a shadow lingering outside, and watched it disappear into the house. Yvette’s house.

Her spiritual instincts communicated that the ghost was about to torment Yvette as never before. She needed to go now. Tomorrow would be too late. She slipped from the kitchen and into her bedroom where she quickly pulled on a blouse and a skirt and a pair of comfortable shoes. She grabbed her house keys and pocketbook, hurrying from the house and to her car.

There was a soft tap on the front door. Frederick Sr. opened it. When he saw Miss Christine, a slow smile crept onto his face. He had seen her only once since returning to Selma after Bertha Mae’s death.

They embraced, and then he said, Hello, Miss Christine. Come on in. It’s so good to see you again. He stood aside, letting her enter.

It’s wonderful seeing you again, Frederick. You look very well. How are you?

Grinning with pleasure, he said, I’m well, Miss Christine.

He led her into the room where everyone welcomed her, making room for her to sit.

When everyone was settled, Miss Christine said, I know you all are wondering why I knocked on your door after nine o’clock at night. And it’s a good thing you don’t live in Selma, or you probably would be asleep. Before I tell you why I’m here, I think Charles wants to tell you all what he saw before he closed and locked the back door earlier this evening.

Charles looked at Miss Christine, surprise sketched on his face.

Go on, Charles, she encouraged.

Staring at Yvette, he offered, Right before I came inside, I took a last glance at the black belly pot. I saw that the fire was out, but I also saw a shadow next to it. I quickly closed and locked the door, deciding I would tell everyone once we settled down, but for some reason, I couldn’t. He finished. Then turning to Miss Christine, he said, You must have seen it too.

Yes. From the moment everyone came out of the house. I was asleep in my bedroom. I sleep lightly. It seemed as if I were living next door to you all again, and just as plain as day, I saw the fire, heard the eerie sound, and saw the shadow. Once you entered the house, Charles, it remained hovering next to that pot for at least five minutes, and then it went through your back door. It…She’s here right now and mad as a rooster. She knows that I’m not afraid of her, and there’s nothing she will try while I’m here.

Joseph asked. Miss Christine, would you happen to be touched?

I am, she replied.

Praise God. A blessing sent to help Yvette, Joseph said, feeling that his prayers were being answered in the affirmative.

I can only help from the visions that I have and what the spirit moves me to do. Believe me, I have known what has been going on, but it wasn’t my business at that time to interfere. Now I am moved to do all that is possible to do to help Yvette, Miss Christine explained in quiet tones that sent slight chills throughout everyone in the room.

Catherine stared at Miss Christine, tears appearing in her kind eyes. I’ve been praying for a miracle. Thank you so much for coming to help Yvette, Miss Christine, she said humbly to the younger woman, even though she was old enough to be her mother.

Miss Christine gave her a slight nod. "Well, I don’t know how much I can help. What I do know is she’s here and ready to raise cain with Yvette.

Now, please let me continue with the reasons why I’m here. I’ve had several other visions today. She paused, taking several sips of her cool water. She placed her glass on the coffee table, looking keenly at each of them before continuing. What I’m about to tell you may shock you, but you all need to hear this, she warned.

Again, she took several swallows of water and sat back in her seat, looking first at Yvette and then the others. She let them know that she would be interchanging Bertha Mae and Bertha Mae’s haint when speaking.

Then she began to tell them about her visions. She told them about the old special woman, what she looked like, where she was, and that she believed in ghosts being able to enter and take over other bodies. She advised that Yvette forget about seeing her because in the end it would be fatal to her. Somehow there was a connection between the old special woman and Bertha Mae, she was certain. It was a very strong possibility that the old special woman already knew that Bertha Mae was haunting Yvette because she could see ghosts and knew that Bertha Mae wanted the soul of her daughter.

Even though she thought the old special woman was very good, in this instance, her vision showed them together, which meant a definite connection.

Seeing their stunned faces, she felt the urge to stop, but continued, knowing they would be additionally shocked to hear the rest of what she had to say. My last vision was about Bertha Mae’s haint. I believe that when I last saw you, I hadn’t seen her. I saw her in a vision while sleeping. She looks appalling, the stringy hair standing on her head as if she had starch in it. Her face was bloated as if it were filled with excess liquid, her eyes were red as blood, yet, her body was boney, hardly any meat left on her. She’s certainly fading as she should be, if she were in her grave.

She paused briefly before further informing them about Bertha Mae’s stench and how her flesh was beginning to rot, that the additional stench of bitter roots had something to do with voodoo, and how it was such a strange thing to be associated with a dead person. She told of the other odd thing, the dark shadows hanging around Bertha Mae, and the dim light in the far distance. She couldn’t go toward the light, and the shadows were waiting to take her.

As she neared the end of telling her visions, she whispered, Bertha Mae’s haint is livid because you have so many people around you that love you, Yvette. She wants to hurt you very badly, take your life now, but something is holding her back, she concluded, looking at Yvette, who had turned pale from hearing the appalling details, to gazing at everyone else in the room.

Every one of them looked grief-stricken. As if they were seeing Bertha Mae’s haint.

I’m sorry to be the bearer of this awful news, but I must do all that I can to help save Yvette’s life. Finishing, she sat forward, taking the glass of cool water and drinking all of it slowly while she observed the silent, stunned people that she cared about as they tried digesting all she had told them.

Finally, Yvette spoke. What can I do, Miss Christine? she inquired quietly, her hands shaking uncontrollably which she tried hiding in her lap.

Miss Christine’s voice was soothing as she spoke. "Right now, you must have someone with you at all times, especially when you’re asleep. That’s when you’re most vulnerable. Even though she’s so strong now, she could come at you at any time.

When she comes after you while you’re sleeping, you must be able to protect yourself. Don’t run from her or let her make you feel guilty about David and your love for him. You must defend yourself. Forget that she was your mother. She’s not anymore, not in the real sense of the word. You must remember that she’s no longer alive, and that you want to remain that way. Fight tooth and nail, with everything that you have in you.

She paused to let her words enter Yvette’s mind and become engrained in it. She knew that the poor young woman needed all the help in the world, but she also needed to know the truth as well as the rest of her family. Most importantly, she needed to understand how critical it was to fight for her life.

I want you to pray and then the rest of the family pray with you before you sleep, after you awake, and several times during the day. Keep white candles going twenty-four hours. Open the window to let fresh air in when the smell becomes too strong. And most of all, don’t speak to David until I give you further notice. She hates the idea that he loves you. Have your grandmother call and explain that you love him, but mustn’t speak to him for a while. No communication at all.

He’s what keeps me going. Hearing his voice…

"I know that, my child, and I’m sorry. Just remember, she can go after him as well. You certainly don’t want any harm to come to him.

So far, you’re the very person in this house that loves your mother the most. She hates you, and at the same time, it benefits her, giving her the edge. Keep the faith and know that God loves you no matter what is going on. I will let you know as soon as I have another vision. She patted Yvette’s hand, then squeezed it, reassuring her.

Yvette began weeping silently. Catherine sat next to her, embracing her.

Miss Christine began speaking again. "I know this is very difficult for you, Yvette, but I have to tell you these things to help save you, child. Your mother had her life, and she can’t have yours. You deserve to live and be happy. She chose to do what she wanted, and now she has to accept it in death.

As soon as I have something else, I will let you know. Until then, my prayers are with you and the rest of you all, she said as she turned, looking at each of their tired and worried faces. "I need all of you to be careful as well. You never know if Bertha Mae’s haint may come after one of you, except Frederick.

Be on your guard for anything that seems out of place, even a napkin in the house. It will most likely be her testing her strength and Yvette’s as well. Yvette has several things in her favor, her faith, love of her family, and the love of David, regardless of her not being able to speak to him.

Yvette, having regained some of her composure, nodded her head in understanding. Miss Christine looked carefully at her, deciding that she was alright for now.

Joseph asked Yvette if she was alright, and she confirmed what Miss Christine knew.

The others assured Miss Christine that they would be there for Yvette and be on guard for any monkey business that Bertha Mae may try. She knew they meant every word, and she also realized there wasn’t much they could do to assist Yvette, but being there with her was good for her morale, for now. It all boiled down to Bertha Mae’s evil spirit.

Miss Christine, who do you think should be in the room with me at night? Yvette suddenly asked.

Every eye turned to Miss Christine, awaiting an answer.

Immediately Miss Christine said, Charles, since he has always been your second defense against your mother. It would be good if your father could be close by. It could also help discourage her in some way.

That sounds like a great plan, Joseph agreed. Doris, Catherine, and Charles also agreed. Frederick Sr. hadn’t spoken much, deciding it would be best to listen and observe.

Miss Christine turned to Charles, whose eyes were on her. She knew what he wanted to ask, answering his question.

"To answer your question, yes, I know that she’s trying to take over Yvette’s body. She’s not ready to cross over, although she should have by now. However, she knows that she will go to a place that she’s not prepared to enter, so she’s desperate to relive her life again, at any cost. She hated Yvette from the moment her father held her in his arms and told her how much he loved her.

I believe she will do everything she can to get rid of Yvette. And there’s a way to stop her. I just don’t have the answer right now. In the meantime, just follow my instructions. Also, there is something else I want you all to do. Make sure you place the white candles in every room in threes, and purchase as many candles as you can, and the ones in Yvette’s room, place a Bible in front of them.

Catherine and Doris left the room, returning shortly with three. Miss Christine told them they would do for now and to place one each in Yvette’s bedroom, the kitchen, and the bathroom. Then tomorrow they needed to purchase all the candles they could find and burn fifteen daily. After her instructions, she knew her work there was finished, rose, and said her goodbyes.

Joseph and Catherine walked with her to the door. Frederick Sr. walked to her car with her, watching as she got inside and drove away into the darkness of the late night.

About an hour after Miss Christine’s departure, Yvette yawned, declaring that she was very tired. Catherine followed with a yawn. They both smiled at each other, rising at the same time.

Okay, everyone, Grandmother and I are going to bed. You all can stay up. Everyone knows where they’re sleeping, right? Charles and Dad, oh, in my room, and Dad close by. Doris on the rollaway bed, and Grandmother and Granddad together. Good night all. Love you. Yvette smiled as she and Catherine walked arm in arm from the room.

In her room, Yvette quickly changed into a light pair of pajamas, slipped to her knees, and talked to the Lord for a while. Then she lay in bed thinking of David and how much she loved and missed him. She closed her eyes, seeing him. His intriguing light-brown eyes, sexy body, the beautiful smile with great white teeth, the look of love in his eyes, causing her the desire to leave this place and be with him. Yet, she knew that couldn’t happen because then she would be putting his life in danger as well.

She opened her eyes in time, seeing Charles enter the room. Hey, sis, he said with a huge grin on his kind face. I brought a blanket with me. I can sleep on the floor by your bed until tomorrow. Then I can run and purchase a small cot to sleep on until this thing is over with you.

No, Charles, you can sleep at the foot of my bed. You won’t bother me. The bed is large enough to hold both of us. Will you just do that for me, please. I can’t have you sleeping on the floor. And thank you for being here for me as always, my dear brother.

You don’t have to thank me. You know that I’ll do anything to protect you. Now, let’s go to sleep before the others so we can get up and storm the kitchen before they do, he said as he lay at the foot of the bed, throwing a light blanket over him.

Then he sat up. We have to gather everyone so we can pray together, remember? He didn’t wait for an answer. Instead, he dashed from the room to gather everyone into Yvette’s room for prayer.

Within minutes after praying, Frederick Sr. and Charles made themselves comfortable as best that they could in Yvette’s room, falling fast asleep.

Ten minutes later, the entire household was asleep. The only light in the house was that of the bathroom and the candles.

Three hours later when they should have been in deep sleep, both Yvette and Charles opened their eyes. Yvette yawned, covering her mouth.

Hey, sis, why aren’t you asleep? he whispered.

I could ask you the same thing, my brother.

Yeah, but I asked first, Charles whispered good-naturedly.

Yvette turned over on her back, sitting up, peering at her brother in the illuminated room lent by the single candle. To tell you the truth, I’m gathering as much strength as I can before she, It, comes after me. I was sleeping, and suddenly I’m awake, feeling fairly strong. When I fall asleep again, I’ll be ready when It comes after me. She lowered her voice. You want to know something, she said, not requiring an answer. She smiled, crawling to the foot of the bed where Charles was sitting up with his arms around his legs.

Since Miss Christine was here, I somehow feel different. It’s as if she left a spiritual healing presence behind to help protect me. I know it sounds crazy, but I feel I have more power, mentally and spiritually, to frighten It, our mother’s haint.

Charles shook his head in understanding, wondering why Yvette was calling Bertha Mae’s haint It. He wouldn’t ever think his sister as being crazy. He was close to her and could feel some of the same things that she felt. He knew that what she said was true. He could sense it in her voice and the ambiance that came from her.

That’s great, sis. She’s a good woman, a woman of God. I know that she will continue to help you and that God will show her the answers to help get rid of Bertha Mae’s haint. You have a lot going for you, the love of a good man, your family, your faith, now Miss Christine. With all these factors, you will succeed. I don’t know when. As Miss Christine said, she can only do what she can when she has another vision. Let’s just pray that comes soon. Meanwhile, I know that you’re ready for Bertha Mae’s haint.

That’s one reason why I love you so much, Charles. You don’t judge me. You just love and support me.

"And I always will. You know, I think about what Grandmother Catherine said about Bertha Mae not being capable of loving. What I think is that she didn’t want to love anyone but herself. That’s why she was always alone throughout her life. She chose to love no one but her. It hurts me that they blame themselves for the way she turned out, but I guess parents who love their children always feel guilty when their grown children make a mess of their lives.

Anyway, it was her choice. And it was her choice to hate us, not our fault. We went through hell, with you at the forefront. When I think about it, sis, I almost break down, crying. I’m afraid that she may have rubbed off on me. That’s my main reason for not becoming involved with someone. I don’t know…I don’t know if I have the tendency to intentionally hurt or even love. Then I become very upset, nearly hating Bertha Mae. I know it’s wrong, but I could never love her for treating us worse than wild animals. I must continue praying for forgiveness, and one day, I’ll stop hating her.

Yvette moved from the bed, pulling her housecoat from the chair next to the dresser, sitting next to Charles. She told him how much it hurt that her mother hated her so much and how she had tried putting it in the past so that she could move forward in her life, but now that she was dead and haunting her, and trying to take her life, she didn’t know how she should feel anymore.

You know, I don’t understand why she hates you so much that even in death she hates you. So, I believe that she wants to get rid of you because you’re capable of loving and being loved. That is a blemish on us. Charles paused, shaking his head in thought. It’s crazy and evil, just the kind of thing she would try and do. And how does one really fight a haint like her?

I don’t know, Charles. We can only try until something else comes along. She won’t win, my brother. I may go through hell, as I did when she was alive, but I believe that God won’t let her take my life away this time the way she did when she lived, Yvette said firmly, with great resolve.

You said it, sis. I believe you, and with the help of everyone and the man above, you will succeed. Now, let’s try and get some sleep before daylight approaches. He suggested, lying down again, pulling the light blanket over his head.

Yvette smiled. "Before you do that. Don’t doubt yourself. Bertha Mae did have a bad effect on all of us, but not to the point where you can’t love and treat the woman you love with respect and give her all that she needs to make her happy. You’re a kind and good person and have plenty of love to give.

I know that David loves me and makes me happy. Yet, I don’t know how long we can go on this way. He’s a great person, but there comes a time…Things, especially like this, change people. I may have to let him go, just so he can have a decent life, Charles.

Oh, sis. I don’t know if that’s a good idea. David loves you and won’t ever leave you. I’m afraid if you let him go, it will deeply hurt him to the point where he would never be the same. Sis, please think hard before you do something, I believe, so drastic. I would hate to see you two split. You belong together, I know that.

Yvette, shook her head, slightly smiling. Good night, Charles, she whispered, pulling the sheet to her chin, closing her eyes, yawning, falling directly into a slumber.

Four hours later, as the rooster crowed, Bertha Mae appeared in Yvette’s dreams.

I see you brought the whole damn family here to try and stop me from getting to you. You are one stupid heffer, Stinky. You ought to know you cain’t outsmart me. I will kick yo skinny ass until I break every bone in you.

She raised her hand to hit Yvette, but she was not fast enough. Yvette was able to block her oncoming blow.

Why, you sorry ass heffer, you dare raise yo filthy hand to hit me. I will… She tried slapping Yvette, but again her forthcoming rage was terminated by Yvette.

Bertha Mae was furious because Yvette was stronger than she had expected, and she was able to fight back in her sleep.

You either need to go to hell or heaven and leave me alone. You had your life to live and chose to live it your way. Now you think you can change the way the Bible is written and come back and take mine and relive yours again. I say no way. You will not!

Bertha Mae’s haint faced Yvette. Seeing the incredible disgusting flesh beginning to sag from her bones and smelling the foul order of rotting flesh nearly caused Yvette to heave in her sleep. She fought to keep her breath and composure as she faced this demonic-looking thing.

You stinky heffer, I’ll get you yet, she threatened before disappearing.

Yvette was suddenly wide awake. She opened her eyes to find the sun rising. She yawned, and then the reoccurrence of the fight with Bertha Mae’s haint