3.4 Stopping in Paradise

The flight from Egypt to Crete was short.

To get to Sophia’s I had to take an additional boat ride to the island she lived on.

The water was beautiful, and the boat ride enjoyable.

I saw Sofia waiting for me at the marina as the boat docked.

Butterflies immediately invaded my stomach.

I quickly gathered my luggage and departed from the boat.

She greeted me with a kiss to each cheek.

“Did you have a good trip?”she asked.

Oh, how I’ve missed her.

“Yes. I did, thank you.” I replied.

“Come, let’s go back to my house so you can relax.”

We got in her car and took off.

It was a hard decision to either stare at Sofia, or the beauty of the Greek Island.

Her house was adorable, and everything that I envisioned a Greek villa to look like.

The sun was starting to set and she had a perfect view from her back yard.

“Are you hungry?” Sophia asked.

“Well, maybe just a little.”I said sheepishly.

“How about I make us some salads, then we can go play in the ocean…I trust you have a bathing suit?”

“That sounds wonderful, and yes, thankfully I brought my suit.” I smiled.

I asked her if there was anything I could do to help, and when she replied “No”, I relaxed in a chair outside and listened to the ocean.

We ate our salads outside.

The evening was perfect.

The salads were delicious.

The company was phenomenal.

I helped carry the plates to the kitchen.

We changed into our swim suits and walked out the back gate to the welcoming calm ocean.

“I’ve missed you” Sophia said.

 “Not as much as I’ve missed you.” I replied.

I spun her in my arms and looked into her eyes.

Then, I kissed her.

Thankfully, she kissed me back.

We kissed all the way back inside.

We kissed all the way to the bedroom.

And then we “kissed” for a while longer.

***

I woke to the sound of beautiful music.

I walked into the living room where Sophia was playing the piano.

“Is there anything you can’t do?” I asked.

She played the last note and turned to smile at me.

“I was going to ask you the same thing.” she said.

She stood up and greeting me with a kiss.

I could soooo get used to this.

“So, what do you want to do today?”she asked.

All I wanted to do was stay in her arms…but I couldn’t forget my other responsibility.

It was time to tell her my secret.

“Sophia, there is actually something I need to talk to you about….”

I proceeded to tell her everything, my ability to talk to ghosts, my job, my problems, and how everything was getting worse.

“Oh, Yanni. What a terrible burden. Is there anything I can do to help?”

“Actually, there might be.” I retrieved my cell phone and showed her the pictures I captured from the ancient book. “Is this Greek?”

She studied the pictures.

“It is! Very ancient Greek, but I think I can translate it for you.”

“I couldn’t ask you to do that!”

“It would be my pleasure. I’ll just transfer the images to my laptop and get to work. It shouldn’t take too long.”

“I am very grateful.” I said humbly.

“I’m sure I can think of a reasonable payment.” she said coyly and she kissed me.

***

I got dressed and went outside.

Finding a chessboard was perfect a perfect way to pass some time.

Then I took a little nap in a lounge chair.

I was awaken by soft kisses.

“I need a break.” Sophia said. “Do you want to go to the beach for a little while?”

She already had her swimsuit on.

“I would love to.” I said.

I quickly changed.

This water was magical.

We enjoyed the sun until we got hungry.

Then we walked up to the house and prepared dinner together.

After dinner, we enjoyed the sunset from the hot tub.

This was paradise.

***

The next day planned to tell Sophia how much I loved her.

I never heard my phone ring.

But when I listened to my voice mail, I felt the blood drain from my body.

“Yanni, this is your father. Please come home soon. Things are getting worse.”

I would have to leave the next morning.

***

My head was a whirlwind.

My love for Sophia and my duties in Sunset Valley were conflicting.

I had only one option.

***

We went to a local tavern for dinner.

I ate my dinner quietly as I sat across a very understanding Sophia.

I paid the bill and we walked over to the water.

“Sophia….”I started.

She looked at me.

“…I have something to ask you.”

I got down on my knee…

“I love you, more than words can express….will you please be my wife and come home with me to Sunset Valley?”

Tears formed in her eyes.

“Oh, Yanni. I love you too…but I can’t…”

“….please understand. I can’t leave Greece for good. It is my duty to stay here.”

I held back my tears.

I held back my rejection.

I only hope no one else heard my heart shatter into a million pieces.

“Ok, Sophia.” was all I could say.

“Please don’t hate me.” Sophia pleaded.

“I will never hate you.”

And I hugged her, quite possibly for the last time.

We drove back to the house in silence.

***

Morning came quickly .

I gathered my belongings and Sophia handed me a folder with the translated pages.

I thanked her again.

I wanted to kiss her, but I couldn’t.

I wanted to stay in Greece with her, but I couldn’t.

I held her hand and gently squeezed it.

The taxi’s horn beeped impatiently outside.

“Good Bye” I whispered and ran to catch my ride.

Tears ran down her face as I fought to keep mine in.

Once inside the taxi, Sophia and her house quickly became a blur.

I took out my phone with shaking hands and called my parents.

My father answered, sounding out of breath.

I told him I was one my way.

“Please get here soon….it’s your mother…the spirits have done something to her…”

***

3.2 Good-byes

Sophia was a wonderful distraction from my ghost problem.

It started with a chance encounter at a masquerade party, where we spent most of the evening talking outside.

I gave her my phone number and asked her if I could take her to the Spring Festival.

 

A week later, we met at the park.

We spent the entire day at the Spring festival.

Having her in my arms felt so right…

“I really enjoy your company” I said to her.

She blushed a little. “I enjoy your company too.”

I couldn’t  resist the urge to kiss her any longer.

“Please don’t get mad at me…” I said.

“For what?”

“For kissing you.”

She looked shocked, then a smile spread across her face.

“I hope to have you kiss me again later.”

“I think I would be happy to.”

We danced to one more song, she twirled gracefully in my arms.

“Can you walk me back to the bakery please?”

“It would be my pleasure.”

My parents happened to be at the festival, and I was going to tell them I was going, but they seemed to be lost in their own moment.

Sophia and I walked back to the shop.

“The bakery is doing very well.” Sophia said, sadly.

“Why do you sound upset about that?” I asked.

“Because, that means it is time for me to go home.”

“You don’t have to go….”

“What do you mean?” she asked.

“You could stay here with me.”

“That is very kind of you, but I can’t. I love my country, and miss her very much. I have family there, and a father that I will have to take care of.”

I tried to hide my extreme disappointment.

“How much longer do I have to change your mind?” I asked.

She looked at the ground…”My flight leaves tomorrow…”

“Then I better give you that kiss tonight.” I said as I embraced her.

I pulled her close and kissed her…kissed her like I would never see her again.

She had a tear in her eye as she pulled away.

“Good bye, Yanni…thank you for such a wonderful time.”

“The pleasure was all mine Sophia…”

I started to walk back to my house.

My head was spinning.

Then my phone rang.

These ghosts have the worst timing ever.

In fact, I really wasn’t in the mood to deal with anyone…

I sighed and told the customer I would be right there, since it was actually on my way home.

I got to the house to find a very rude ghost.

“Sorry Buddy,” I said. “I’m just not in the mood for games tonight.”

My work was done, and I walked the rest of the way home.

Mom was painting out in the Gazebo.

I went and sat on the bench.

 She put down her brushes and sat with me.

“What’s the matter sweetheart?” she said lovingly.

 “I had the perfect woman in my arms tonight…”, I started.

I told her everything.

When I finished telling her about Sophia I started telling her about how the ghosts were getting stronger.

She listened carefully.

When I was finished she said, “The problem with Sophia will work itself out, if she is the one for you. I know this for a fact. I know your heart hurts, but right now this ghost issue is your first priority.”

“Yes…it is weighing heavy on me. I can’t just keep going around sucking up ghosts, I need to find out why they are here.”

“Sounds like you have some research to do.” She chuckled.

“Thank you for listening to me.”

“No problem, that’s what I’m here for.Now, this old lady has to go to sleep. Good night.”

“Good night Mom. I love you.”

“I love you too.”

***

The next morning I rushed to the boat ramp to see Sophia leave, but the boat had already left.

***

Over the next few weeks, I spent most of my days in the library and online searching for…anything…something…

I was about to give up when I found a lead.

There was a book hidden somewhere in Al Simhara, Egypt.

I photo-copied the page from the book and headed home.

After telling Mom and Dad about what I had found, I began making arrangements.

I packed my suitcase, kissed my parents and told them good-bye.

I was going to Egypt….

***

3.0 A Visit to Grim

Alone.

Yup. If there was one word to describe me, it would be Alone.

My “gift” to see and speak to ghosts was known to everyone in town.

I avoided trips to town like the plague.

“Such a shame that FREAK is the heir to the Bluebeard name.” the men would say.

“What a waste of a handsome man.” gossiping women would say.

Sunset Valley used to be such a non-judgmental place, but I guess I was the limit.

I was a disappointment.

My mother constantly tried to cheer me up.

She was so sweet, but deep down she was worried about the future of the family…I could tell.

***

I was sitting around in my pajamas when I heard a familiar voice, one that only I could hear.

“Yanni, we need to talk.” Grandpa said.

Here comes the “Find a Wife” speech…

“There’s a disturbance in the afterlife.” he said. “It’s almost time to use your gift.”

Nope, it’s the Doomsday speech.

“Yes sir. I understand.” I said respectfully.

“Mark my words…you will be needed.” he said as he hugged me.

My family was awesome…at least they all loved me…even the dead ones.

It wasn’t until Grandma Pandora visited me that I actually started to get worried.

“You’re Grandfather’s right, you know…something is not right. It won’t be long now.”

“Check mate.” I said.

She swung her hand across the chess board.

Chess pieces went flying.

“Are you listening?!?!” she asked angrily.

“Yes. I guess I don’t understand what it has to do with me. What do I need to do?”

She sighed. “You’ll have to go to Grim’s house.”

“That creepy place in the graveyard?!”

“That’s the place. Knock 5 times. Tell him who you are, and about your gift…he already knows, but it’s protocol….he has something to give you.”

“How will I know when to go?” I asked.

But Grandma had already left.

***

3 nights later I was tossing and turning in bed.

I think I was asleep.

I thought I was dreaming.

Suddenly everything was red.

Then there was a voice, a hoarse whisper.

“It   is   tiiiiimeeee.     Viiiiissssiiiiit      meeeee     tooooomoooorroooow”

I sat up. I was sweating and shaking.

I looked at my clock.

Midnight.

There was no way I was going back to sleep.

I got up, put on my jacket and went out to Grandma and Grandpa’s garden.

“I hope you are both ok.” I whispered into the freezing night air.

Thankfully morning came quickly.

I really didn’t want to go to The Grim Reaper’s house, but I guess when he summons you, there is no procrastinating.

I made my way through the dense snow to the graveyard.

I stood in front of the haunting door.

Crap! How many times was I supposed to knock?!?!

Oh yeah. 5. Get it together Yanni!

I knocked. 1…2…3…4…5

The door began to creak open.

The freezing air became colder and every hair on my body stood on end.

My natural instinct was to run.

Grim stood before me.

“Hi….I’m Yanni Bluebeard. I can see and talk to ghosts.”

He said nothing, but lifted his index finger.

He turned around and went inside.

Minutes, or perhaps only seconds passed.

The door opened and Grim appeared holding something that resembled a leaf blower.

He handed it to me.

BANSHEE BANISHER 3000  was written on the side.

“GOOOOOO.” he said, although it may have been the wind.

I guess that means I wasn’t going to get a friendly tutorial.

I quickly turned and left.

When I got home, my mother was waiting.

“What’s going on?” she asked. “Something doesn’t feel right in the air.”

“I don’t really know.” I answered honestly.

I showed her the Banisher and told her about Grandpa, Grandma and the Grim Reaper.

“So, what are you going to do now?” she asked worriedly.

“I guess I wait.” I sighed.

Mom and I both jumped when the house phone rang.

Mom answered it. “Hello.”

“Hi…um…I’d like to speak to the guy that can see ghosts…I think I have a problem….”

***

2.7 Zach and Zelda

I had been doing a lot of thinking since Yanni and I had our…talk.

In fact, my mind often left me sleepless.

I kept going back and forth of whether Jeff and I should choose who continues our legacy, or whether I should do what my parents did, and let them decide.

I tossed and turned in the bed.

Finally, I just decided to get up and paint.

I was in The Zone.

And that’s when the security alarm went off.

I saw a figure sneak through the living room.

The intruder was in the hallway trying to steal one of my paintings.

I gasped as I realized the intruder looked extremely familiar.

“TRIXIE?!?”  I screamed. “Is That YOU?”

She turned and looked at me. Tears rolled down her face.

Suddenly, blue and red lights filled the hallway.

The police had arrived.

“Don’t run. I’ll save you from the police, but you have some explaining to do.”

She quickly went and hid in the kitchen as I let the officer in.

“I am so sorry officer.” I stated. “I wasn’t sleeping well. I went outside to get some fresh air, and must have forgotten to disarm the alarm.”

He looked at me suspiciously.

“Well. Ok. Please be careful next time.” he finally said.

The officer left and Trixie started to walk out the kitchen door.

“Where do you think you are going?!” I asked.

“I…I…” she stuttered.

“What were you doing? Why did you break into my house?” I yelled.

“I…I..” stuttered again.

“Answer me Trixie!”

She started to cry.

“Please, please forgive me. I got in some trouble with some bad people, and they said if I didn’t steal one of your painting, they were going to kill Zach.”

“Trixie. You didn’t have to break in. Why didn’t you just tell me? I’d give you all my paintings.”

“I was scared.” she started crying again.

I hugged her.

I went inside and got the painting.

“You best change your ways, Trixie. My son loves you, and I love my son. You better not EVER put my family in danger again.”

I handed her the painting.

“I think it’s time for you to go deliver this.”

“Thank you…”

The porch light flicked on.

Trixie was gone.

Zach stepped out the door.

“What’s going on?”

I hesitated on whether I should tell him or not…

***

Later that day Zach saw Trixie coming out of the theater.

“Trixie!” he called out.

She looked surprised to see him.

He grabbed her and kissed her.

“There’s something I want to ask you.” he said.

She looked nervous. Did he know?

Then he really surprised her.

He got down on one knee.

“Trixie. I love you. I want to take care of you for the rest of our lives. Will you marry me?”

Trixie was speechless.

“You want to marry me?”

Zach was starting to get nervous….

“Yes….that’s why I’m asking you…do you want to marry me?”

“Yes! Yes! Yes!”

Relieved, he slide the ring on her finger.

“So…” he said coyly. “What to get married right now?”

“Zach Bluebeard what do you have up your sleeve?”

“Nothing up my sleeve, but how about keys to our own house in my pocket.”

“What? Are you serious? A house? A real house?”

“Of course silly!”

“Oh Zach, I love you.”

And with that, they exchanged vows.

And I got a phone call…

“Mom. Trixie and I eloped.”

“Oh, Zach.” I said. “I wish you all the happiness in the world. Please don’t forget to visit me…” my eyes started to water.

“Mom, we just moving across town…not another country.” he laughed.

***

The house felt different without Zach…

We were still quite busy, planning Zelda’s graduation.

***

Marshall Tucker was planning his and Zelda’s graduation as well.

“Mom,” Zelda called from the hallway,”Marshall said he has a graduation present for me…I’m going to go over to his house…”

I met her in the hallway.

She looked beautiful.

“Ok, sweetheart.”

I watched her walk across the park.

I noticed Marshall in his yard doing the same.

He welcomed Zelda with a kiss…and I decided it would be best to do something else…like paint.

“Zelda, “Marshall said. “Are you ready to be a Farmer’s Wife?”

Zelda blushed.

She glanced across the street to the house she grew up in…and she glanced at the beautiful farm-house.

The aroma of apples filled the air…a sent that always reminded her of the first night she met Marshall.

“Yes. I am ready.”

He put a dazzling ring on her finger.

My phone rang.

“Hi Mom.” It was Zelda.

“Is everything ok?”

“Oh yes. More than ok….it’s about my graduation present from Marshall…”

“Yes…go on…”

“I’m going to be a Tucker!”

I smiled.

“And I’ve decided to live here, with Marshall…”

“As long as you’re happy.”

“Yes, I am. I love you Mom.”

“I love you too, Zelda.”

Suddenly, the house felt really big…

And now, there were only two children left to pass on the tradition.

But it didn’t make the decision any easier….

***

Generation 3 Heir Vote

Wow. Generation 3!!!

(Zelda and the Twins have been aged only for the vote)

2.6 Trixie, Ghosts, and Teenagers

I arrived just in time to see Zach defeat Grimm.

I was more than relieved.

Unfortunately, defeating Grimm gave Zach a renewed sense of…confidence.

***

“That’s a pretty decent tag.” a mysterious voice said.

Zach spun around, half expecting the police.

Instead, it was a girl…

“Watch my back, and I’ll show you how it’s done.”she said coyly.

“Ok.” Zach said, slightly dumbfounded.

The mystery chic opened her bag, and with a cloud of spray paint, she was finished.

Zach was impressed by her talent.

“God. I’m starving.” she said. “Come on. I know were there is a broken vending machine we can steal some snacks from.”

Zach was still trying to figure out who this chic was.

“No…no…let me get us lunch. Let’s go over to the Bistro across the street.” Zach said.

She looked puzzled, but it had been a while since she scored a decent meal.

They walked across the road.

“Order whatever you want.” Zach said. “My Grandpa worked here for a long time…they still give me a discount.”

She ate her meal slowly, enjoying every bite.

Then they ordered dessert.

“My name is Zach, by the way. I can’t remember if I mentioned it earlier…you kinda surprised me.” he ended in a whisper.

“Why are you being so nice to me?” she snapped.

“Well, you are the prettiest girl I’ve ever seen, and you are ridiculously talented.”

“My name is…Trixie. Trixie Doubloon. Thank you for lunch.” she said.

Then she kissed him.

Trying to stay calm and cool, Zach asked,”So…” he cleared his throat. “So, where do you live?”

She pointed to the hill. “Up there.”

There were only three houses at the top of that hill.

His, The Tuckers and The Altos.

“Huh, me too…” he said. “Can I give you a lift home?”

“Oh…uhhh…sure.” she replied.

“Hope you don’t mind motorcycles.”

“Ok with me.”

The got on Zach’s bike. She put her arms around his waist.

He quickly put his helmet on to hide that he was blushing.

They rode to the hill.

He stopped at the center pond and pointed to the left.

“That’s my house. Where can I take you?”

Her eyes shifted nervously at the other two houses.

“That one.” she said, pointing to the Alto’s.

He walked her to the sidewalk.

“Well, thanks for lunch. Good-bye.” she said quickly.

“Ok then…guess I’ll see you around.”

“Yeah…sounds great.”

Zach turned to leave and Trixie quickly jogged behind the Alto’s house, where she hid behind a bush until Zach was home.

She sighed.

That was close. she thought.

The next day at school, Zach looked for Trixie-without any luck.

He was getting off the bus when he saw her at the pond across from the house.

It looked like she was rolling up a tent, but he couldn’t be certain.

“Hey!”he called. “Wanna come in and get a snack?”

She put something by a tree and walked over.

They went inside.

She was oddly fascinated by a painting on the wall.

“Who painted this? This looks like Bianca Bluebeard’s work.”

“Yeah. It is. That’s my mom.”

“Do you have more?” she asked.

They walked into the study.

“Do you know how much these are worth?!” she stated.

***

Aiden was like me. Always painting.

Always.

***

Yanni on the other hand.

He threw us a bit of a curve ball…

“Hi Grandpa!” I heard him say one night. “Will you read me a bedtime story?”

He hugged the air. “Do you think they would believe me?”

We were playing video games together one morning.

“You know Grandma and Grandpa are really proud of you, right?” he said as he put down his controller.

“How do you know that sweetheart?”

“They told me so.”

Again, on another morning I heard him talking to someone in the living room.

“Hey honey. Who are you talking to?”

“Grandma.”

I hope this is just a phase. 

***

Zelda and Marshall were still inseparable.

“Will you go to prom with me?” Marshall asked.

“I’d love to.” Zelda replied back.

“You know, “Marshall stated, “One day soon, this farm is going to be mine…Do you like to garden?”

“I…I…”

“It’s ok, you don’t have to say anything right now.”

She said her good-byes and jogged home in a state of confusion.

The next day, she started reading gardening books.

***

Graduation day came for Zach, and although I was worried Trixie was a negative influence, Zach graduated with decent grades.

There was now a teenager sharing my easels.

And Yanni…he spent most of his days in the garden…talking to my dead parents.

“Mom.” he said. “Is it true only one of us gets to stay in this house and carry on the family name?”

“How….how did you know that?”

“Grandpa told me…”

I was speechless.

2.5 Twins and Robots

Today was the twin’s first birthday.

I sighed.

It also marked a year since my parents died.

They died the night I gave birth to Aiden and Yanni.

I watched as Aiden played with his peg box and Yanni beat the xylophone.

They both had my mother’s hair and my father’s eyes.

I loved my boys so much, and it felt like in a way, my parents were still with us.

It was bed time, and as usual, Yanni was hiding.

He wasn’t crazy about bed time.

I tucked the boys in and looked at the wall paper. This room was past due for a makeover.

I stepped out on the back porch and put on my snow boots.

I walked to the small garden were my parents rested.

“I miss you guys.” I whispered.

***

Taking care of twins was definitely a challenge.

Jeff’s job was keeping him extremely busy.

Zach tried to help.

Zelda….Zelda tried too.

“Mom…” she yelled from the study. “…what was I getting again?”

“Yanni’s bottle.” I said, possibly for the third time.

“Oh yeah.”

***

With Jeff’s long hours, and I really was trying to keep up with the twins, a teenager and an absent-minded daughter.

One night I was teaching Aiden how to talk…

My phone rang.

“Mrs. Bluebeard, this is Officer Glass. We have Zach in custody. We caught him shoplifting.”

My hands started to shake.

“What do I need to do?”

“Well, he is still a minor…so I can just bring him home, as long as you are there.”

“Thank you Officer. I am home.”

I was furious. No….I was beyond furious.

“How could you be shoplifting! Why?!?” I yelled.

“I…I…”

“We have enough money for you to buy anything you need!”

“I…I…”he stuttered. “I don’t know  Mom. I’m sorry….”

“Don’t do it again.”

Zelda stood in the hallway.

She was crying. I sighed.

“Go to bed Zach. Zelda, go pick out a book sweetheart. I’ll read you a story.”

The boys woke up at the same time the next morning.

Early.

I had hardly slept the night before.

I got the boys settled  and walked to the kitchen.

“Wow, Mom. You look rough.” Zach said.

“Wait…that’s not what I meant. I mean, I know it’s probably because of me…Look, let me watch the boys and Zelda. You could go to the spa or something.”

And so I did.

“What about your hair?” the stylist said.

“Cut it.” I said.

A make-over was just what I needed.

I felt like a completely new person.

***

Finally, after all these years, and a lot of hard work, the time portal had been stabilized.

The company wanted Jeff…and me…to go to the future, research and build a robot for the present time.

I knew we shouldn’t be gone long (in present time), but I asked a friend, and neighbor, Sheila Tucker to come watch the kids.

Jeff and I stepped through the portal.

His first time wasn’t so fun.

Jeff began by interviewing the resident robot.

The next morning we went to the Bot Shop.

I was particularly interested in the Nannybot.

While Jeff was drawn to a more aggressive model.

And although Jeff and I weren’t on vacation, we did enjoy some time alone.

After quite a bit of research at the library,

Jeff was ready to build his first robot.

He was felling pretty confident, and I must say I was impressed.

He adjusted the robot’s trait chips.

We were almost ready to go home….there was just something I needed to do first.

I looked up Bluebeard in the directory.

I got the address and went to visit.

The house was awesome.

I was greeted by a nice lady.

“Hi. I’m Bianca Bluebeard…is Diane home?”

She hugged me.

 “I’m her sister-in-law, Mary. Diane isn’t here right now.” she leaned in and whispered,”I’m house-sitting. She and my brother are on their second honeymoon. It’s their 20th anniversary!”

We talked for a little longer, and it was a relief to hear that everyone was doing well.

The next morning, Jeff, the robot and I were ready to go home.

When we got home, Jeff packed a few things.

He had to deliver the robot to Hidden Springs, and unfortunately that meant he would be gone for a week.

At least he made it home in time for the boy’s 8th birthday.

Not even a week later, Zelda turned 15.

She was turning into a lovely lady.

Zach was phenomenal with the guitar.

Jeff  and I were so proud.

***

One crisp Spring evening, Zelda accompanied me to the Tucker’s house for a get together.

I’m not sure if I had forgotten that their son Marshall had turned into a teenager, or that Zelda was a teenager…

He introduced himself.

She was instantly smitten.

By the end of the evening, the both were.

I was not prepared for my daughter’s flirtatious giggles…

I cleared my throat, thanked Sheila for a lovely evening, and announced that it was time to go home.

Zelda was not happy with me.

Too bad!

***

Zach was only days away from graduating.

I was sitting in the kitchen watching Yanni play in the new sand box.

Zelda came running through the door.

“MOM!” she yelled with a panic.”

“What’s the matter Zelda?”

She was out of breath…

“Some college guys….in the park…they dared Zach to….guitar duel…Grimm…Cemetery!”

I got in the car.

I hope I make it in time….

2.4 Product Testing

The seconds went by like hours.

The blue light still surrounded me, and it felt like I was going down a twisting slide.

A whoosh of wind gently hit my face.

The ride had ended.

I opened my eyes…I was alive!

I slowly turned around.

Where was I?

I had almost convinced myself that this was a dream, when a man approached me.

“Oh, dear.” he said. “This is bad.”

“Excuse me?” I questioned.

‘Well, you’re supposed to be Jeff.”

“I’m his wife. Do you mind telling me what is going on?!”

“Yes Mrs. Bluebeard.”

“-Bianca.”

“Bianca. My name is Emmit. Welcome to the future.”

I laughed.

He didn’t.

I wasn’t trying to be rude…”You’re serious, aren’t you?”

“Very. I work for the same company as Jeff….just many, many years later than him. We assumed he would be the one to activate the portal.”

“Yeah….sorry about that….”

“Well, it will take a few days for the portal to charge back up and take you back to your time. We wanted Jeff to test a few items for us…would you be willing to take his place?”

Always up for an adventure, I agreed.

The first item was a jet pack.

I really hope they don’t expect me to give this thing back!

The next item was a hover board.

Although fun, it was quite a bit more difficult to learn.

I went to the sands of the barren sink hole to get the hang of it, and cushion my falls.

The next day Emmit gave me some currency and directed me to the shopping plaza.

I was amazed to see what the future had to offer.

I wasn’t crazy about the current fashions, but there was no way I was leaving without one of those hover boards.

My phone beeped.

It was a text message from Emmit.

It was an address “Thought you might want to visit this family.”

I went outside, flagged a taxi, and gave them the address.

I was rather shocked when we pulled up to a 2 story cabin.

I hesitated at the door.

I knocked.

“Coming.” I heard a voice from inside.

The door opened and I was greeted by a pleasant-looking young woman.

“You must be Great Great Grandmother Bianca! I’m Diane.”

What?!?

She hugged me and invited me inside.

The inside was drab and sparsely decorated.

Diane asked me if I’d like some coffee.

We walked into the kitchen, and as she put on a pot of coffee, she introduced me to her children.

I watched in shock as they ate like wild dogs.

I tried hard not to show my surprise…

Diane sighed.

“Things aren’t well.” she stated. “My husband was working in the mines. There was…an accident…I’ve been trying my best to do this on my own…”

She wiped a tear, got up and took a piece of paper of the fridge.

She handed it to me.

7-12-35-44-10 : 8/15/15

“I know it’s a lot to ask, but maybe you can help? These are the winning lottery numbers for that date.”

I folded the paper and put it in my pocket.

I didn’t like the thought of cheating…

The youngest boy licked his plate.

I also didn’t like the thought of any of my family hungry and struggling.

Present or Future.

I thanked Diane for her hospitality, gave her the rest of the money Emmit had given me to go shopping, hopped on the  hover board and went back to the company house.

I told Emmit about meeting my descendants.

Then I whined about going home.

“The portal is almost ready. I want you to test one more product while we wait.”

He led me outside to a suspended patio.

There was a view of the city and what looked like an easel.

A holographic easel.

I lost track of time, as usual, as I created with this awesome invention.

I went to go look for Emmit and I ask if I had time to go back to the store and buy one. How did I miss these at the store yesterday?

Emmit came running up to me. “Bianca, the portal is activated, but you have to leave, NOW!”

He grabbed my hand and practically dragged me to the portal.

I stepped in.

At first nothing happened. Emmit looked worried.

Then BOOM! A flash of blue light and I landed in my yard.

I ran inside to Zach’s room.

He was there.

Safe and playing his drums.

I searched the house for Jeff.

“Where have you been?” he asked when I found him.

“How long have I been gone?” I asked.

“About 15-20 minutes..” he  said puzzled.

Phew!

“We have a lot to talk about!” I said.

***

Time went by, as it does.

Occasionally the portal’s blue light would flash, making my heart race, every time.

My paintings have been different as of late, but perhaps it was the pregnancy.

It was Zach’s birthday and I was miserably pregnant.

A piece of cake, a few gifts, a sharp pain, and I was in labor.

I named my daughter Zelda, in honor of my grandmother.

Like Zach, she was a good baby.

I blinked, maybe twice.

I was teaching Zelda to talk.

Zach was very smart, like his father.

They loved to play chess together.

One morning I was rearranging my dresser drawers when I came across a piece of paper folded up.

It was the paper Diane had given me.

I looked at the date.

That’s today!!!

Indecision overcame me.

What do I do?!?

“I’ll be back soon.” I called to Jeff.

I argued with myself the whole way to the store.

The picture of those hungry children kept popping in my mind.

I bought the ticket.

I tried to act surprised when I won.

I donated a fair amount to charity, and put the majority into a long-term savings account.

***

Winter came fast.

My father was spending some time with Zelda.

Which gave me an opportunity to play with Zach in the snow.

The holiday was very joyful, spent with a lot of friends and family.

I got up early the next morning to clean up.

I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror.

Wow.

When did I get all the wrinkles-I mean laugh lines?

Then the nausea hit me.

I ran to the bathroom just in time.

I sighed.

I was middle aged…and pregnant.

 

2.3 Growing Up

I hesitantly opened the door.

“What are you doing here?” I asked.

“Bianca, it’s so good to see you. Can we please talk?”

I stepped out on the porch and closed the door.

“I’m listening.” I said trying hard not to sound too cold.

He patiently waited for the delivery boy to leave.

“I was wrong for what I did. Very wrong. You are the best thing that has ever and will ever happen to me. I made a huge mistake and hurt both of us in the process. Will you please forgive me?”

I sighed.

I hope I don’t regret this…

“Yes. I forgive you.”

“Oh, thank you. I was hoping you would say that….I got you something.”

“Bianca Bluebeard, please say Yes again.”

***

It was Love Day.

I applied the finishing touches to my make up.

The forecast called for warm weather and sunshine.

I chuckled to myself.

I could see my breath!

Yes, it was my wedding day.

Some might question my decision, but I do not.

I know Jeff is the one for me.

And as I saw him at the end of the aisle, waiting for me, I couldn’t help but smile.

I walked up to Jeff. His eyes sparkled.

“You look amazing.” he whispered.

We stood under the arch, waiting what seemed like an eternity for the violinist’s last note to stop.

“Bianca, I promise to love you, to support you, to make you happy, to be your friend, to be your husband, to be your shoulder, to be your anything.”

“Jeff, I promise to love you, to be your friend and your wife. I look forward to sharing all of life’s experiences with you.”

We were husband and wife.

The full moon lit up the night.

Unfortunately, it did not warm up the cool air.

Most the guests went inside to warm up, but I was lost in Jeff’s arms.

Of course it wouldn’t be a day in The Life of Bianca if it didn’t start raining, but then again rain has never stopped my fun before.

All the guests thanked us for inviting them join out celebration and started to go home.

I glanced at the clock.

We had to hurry!

As a gift from Jeff’s parents. we had a honeymoon flight to Shang Simla, leaving in 2 hours!

The flight was long, and although I was super excited, I was able to get some rest.

We took a taxi to the hotel.

I was in awe of the beauty of this place.

I wanted to draw everything…too bad my sketch book was in the trunk.

Jeff carried our luggage inside.

“I hope you don’t mind if I relax, just for a few minutes..”he said sleepily.

“Oh, of course not. I’m just going to slip into something more comfortable.”

I took my bag to the bathroom and took a quick shower.

Much better.

I started to look through my bag.

Finally I found what I was looking for. It must have been the first thing I packed.

I blushed.

I walked into the bedroom where Jeff was resting.

Now what?

I cleared my throat.

Jeff opened his eyes. Then his jaw dropped.

“Wow.”

I climbed into bed.

“I hope you got enough rest.” I teased.

“Me too.” he said as he wrapped his arms around me.

***

Our sightseeing began the next day.

Again, Shang Simla was amazing.

I loved the TerraCotta army.

There were so many places to explore and a few places that I couldn’t help but get out my sketch book.

I was so thankful for this gift. Jeff and I were having a wonderful time.

***

When we arrived home, we noticed a few changes.

Mom and Dad had done some remodeling. They even added an art room for me!

Halfway through the house tour, I had to make a break for the bathroom. Darn jet lag!

Daily life came easy.

The Science Facility in Hidden Springs agreed to let Jeff work from home to honor his contract he had signed with them.

He was always getting weird equipment to work with.

My favorite was the floating orb holo-computer.

It became apparent that the incense burner was not the only souvenir we acquired from our honeymoon.

To say my father was excited would be an understatement.

My pregnancy was going fairly easily.

No morning sickness and my weight gain was right on chart, even though I felt huge!

It happened at night.

The pain, just like all the pregnancy books described.

I was in labor!!!

***

Zach was beautiful.

I wanted to hold him, but he was sleeping so peacefully.

Jeff was a very proud Daddy.

All the loves and cuddles doesn’t slow time down.

Before I could blink, Zach was a toddler.

And we were all wrapped.

Mom was especially helpful. She was an excellent Grandmother.

While not working, Jeff spent his time with Zach.

Zach loved his xylophone.

I had been commissioned by City Hall for a number of paintings.

I was loving the art room, but it seemed like I never left.

It was on one of those long nights in the art room that I thought I saw Zach playing on one of those funky contraptions Jeff’s company sent.

I threw my paints down and ran out the back door.

Zach was not outside.

I found myself, alone, standing in the middle of the contraption.

Suddenly there was a bright light.

“JEFF!!!” I screamed.

But it was too late.

2.2 Going Home

The final report card was delivered early that morning.

Attached was a letter.

I read it over and over.

“Ms. Bianca Bluebeard,

You have excelled in you search for academic knowledge. Sims University is proud to have you as a graduate.

We are so impressed by your efforts, that you will graduate today with one of the highest honors in  Sims University.

Please wear your gown proudly, you have earned it.”

Wow.

Certainly this had to be a mistake.

Had I really done that much?

I called Jeff and told him the news.

“Congratulations. You totally earned it, and please do not doubt it for a minute!”

“Thank you.”

Other than his praise, he was somewhat short on the phone.

Although our conversation left me slightly confused, I brushed it off and started to get ready for the graduation ceremony.

I started to worry about the letter and hope that I wasn’t going to be expected to give a speech.

I made my way over to the auditorium.

It had begun to rain.

As I noticed my fellow graduates, I noticed I was the only one with a gold sash.

We made our way in, just as the rain started to increase.

The Pomp and Circumstance started.

My name was called.

I was overwhelmed when my graduates honored me with a standing ovation.

I tried to stay humble, but a sense of pride ran through me as well.

I had just graduated college as an artist, and already my name was well known.

The ceremony ended and as I left the auditorium, that sense of pride hit its high.

I was on cloud 9.

I searched the crowd for Jeff.

A few people stopped to congratulate me.

They tried to make small talk, and as much as I wanted to be polite, the fact that I couldn’t find Jeff was really distracting.

I fumbled through my gown and got my phone.

Where are you? I text.

At my house. he replied.

I took a deep breath.

This can’t be good.

I went to his house.

Jeff was sitting on the porch steps.

His eyes were red and puffy.

He stood up as I got close.

“Bianca…I think…I mean… we have to break up.” he said.

“What?” The word barely escaped me. I felt like I had been hit in the stomach. “Why?’

“You are going home tomorrow. To Sunset Valley. I still have one term left.”

“That is not a reason. I love you. Do you think I wouldn’t wait for you?”

No. That’s not it. Once I graduate, I have to go back to Hidden Springs. The Science Facility paid for my college, and I signed a contract.”

“So, you don’t even want to try and make this work?! Don’t you love me?”

“I….I…” he stuttered.

“So this is good-bye?”

“It has to be.”

I turned to leave. I had to. I was about to be overcome with emotions I had never experienced.

***

The ride home was…I don’t know…long.

All I could think about was my conversation with Jeff.

I had to pull myself together. I hadn’t told my parents I’d gotten dumped.

It was already much colder in Sunset Valley.

Frost glistened on the windows.

I walked through the front door.

“Mom, Dad…I’m home.”

The smell of Home was almost as comforting as my parent’s loving embrace.

“It’s good to have you home.” Dad said.

“It’s good to be home.” I replied, holding back tears.

Mom noticed.

Hopefully she would just think I they were tears of joy, not heartbreak.

***

A week went by.

I knew I wasn’t acting like myself, but I was trying.

For whatever reason, my parents hadn’t asked about Jeff.

I didn’t know who I was kidding anyway…Mom was a fortune teller.

My phone rang.

Please let it be Jeff.

It was Victoria.

She asked me to watch my nephew so she and Fausto could go on a date.

I happily obliged.

Brent was adorable, and a very good baby.

As I tucked him into his crib, I found myself secretly envious of my sister.

I wanted a family.

***

Winter passed quickly and the days were getting warmer.

I was working on a portrait of dad enjoying the sounds of the evening rain.

Mom cleared her throat.

“Bianca, may I talk to you?” she asked.

I put down my paints. “Of course.”

“Bianca, you have to let Jeff go. I am so sorry he hurt you, but I think you should move on.”

I knew this was coming.

“I’m not ready Mom. I don’t know if I will ever feel like that again, or if I ever want to feel like this again.”

“There’s a really cute new cook at your father’s diner…”

“Mom. I’m not ready. I thought Jeff was the one.” I couldn’t help the tears now. “The one I was going to have a family with.”

Mom hugged me tight. “Ok baby. You know what you’re doing. I’m here if you need me.”

She released me from her motherly embrace.

I felt like such a failure.

And failing scared me.

***

It was Dad’s birthday.

I really tried to have a good time.

The new cook, Danny, was at the party. He kept winking at me….it was really starting to annoy me.

He was not impressing me.

And he wasn’t cute either.

At least the cake looked good.

I was about to take my first bite when the doorbell rang.

“I’ll get it.” I volunteered.

It was Jeff.