Enchanted: Dotties Story

by Linda Gerald

  This promotion to the helper, instead of the follower, installed the spark she previously lacked. Promptly, she skillfully gave directions to the “mere driver.” Deeper into Italy they ventured. The town of Assisi, in Umbria, stole her heart. Years later, they laughed at the parking lot attendant, who “fell in love” with Elizabeth on that first Italian trip.

  They had parked at a local lot while they visited the famous cathedral. Due to her love for birds, the woman with no memory artfully recalled facts about the famous St. Francis, as they enjoyed a lunch of cheese, fine meats, and a glass of wine. When they returned to the car, giddiness abounded. As they approached the exit, suddenly they were blocked. Since they already paid the exit fee, this act did not make sense. Again, they circled toward the point of departure only to be blocked for the second time. Outrage, at such action, prompted Elizabeth to march inside to the parking attendant.

  “What is your problem? We paid our fees, but you block our exit.” She glared at the young man.

  “I’m a in love a with you.” He looked into her eyes with fascination.

  “What? Are you insane? You don’t know me.” She shook her head in confusion.

  “I don’t care. I’m a in love a with you.” Elizabeth and Harry were tired. They desired a room for the night. Harry waited in a hot car.

  “I’m already taken.” She held up the shiny ring.

  Nothing she did seemed to work. He refused to remove the block on her leaving. Finally, she told him how tired they felt. They needed to find lodging for the evening since they did not have reservations. Crowds abounded in Assisi. The fact that she asked for his help pleased him. He removed a brochure. Smiling at her, he described his friend’s Inn. At last, she trudged back to the car.

  “You were right. Italian men are lovers. That one professed his strong love but traded it quickly for my agreement to stay at his friend’s Inn. Hope that I made an agreeable choice.”

  “Honestly, I don’t care. This heat is killing me. Should we find the room early?” Days of walking and viewing different sites took a toll. Gladly, they drove to the Inn of the attendant’s friend. That day, always resulted in laughter, as they later remembered the “Italian lover.”

  Assisi soon became a memory. On, they continued the drive south. Brindisi loomed ahead, but not before a drive on the Amalfi Coast and a ferry ride to Sicily; secrets of another ancient history awaited them.

  “Harry, just continue driving forward to reach the Amalfi Coast.” He nodded as if he had no clue that they needed to continue southward. They agreed to bypass Rome, with plans of returning someday to the Eternal City, for a trip just to savor the delights it held.

  “Driving on the Amalfi Coastline is challenging not only because of the sharp curves, but the picturesque sea-cliff villages also take your breath away. You see, it is impossible not to look.”

  Elizabeth clutched the handle of the car door. Harry sped around the steep unprotected turns. Indeed, he was looking at everything, but that deadly road which flew past them.The curvaceous trail hugged the coast with beguiling swatches of bluest water. Salty fragrances blew gently in their faces. An allure of seafaring treasures for lunch caused them to stop. What they enjoyed did not disappoint. Succulent oysters, by the waters, as they studied houses hanging from the cliffs. A cobalt day, as blue as the water surrounding them, could only etch unforgettable memories. Day after day, the handsome couple enjoyed each place.

  Heavenly nights passed with doors and windows opened. Sweet smells of pink Bougainvillea, which covered their doorways, soothed their dreams. Deep sleep quickly lulled them. They began to relax from driving and walking as well as eating more than usual. The food seemed more luscious, as they traveled along the path.

  Much too quickly, they reached the ferry dock which would transport them to another fascinating place. This remarkable place also held dark secrets of many past civilizations.

  Again, Elizabeth felt a deep connection to this approaching island of brightness. The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea sat just off the toe of Italy’s boot. As they crossed the sea on the ferry, Elizabeth and Harry became separated due to the crowd. A crew member invited her to the Captain’s booth. She surveyed the people below. Soon, she located Harry. He looked up and saw her shielded from the others, in air conditioning comfort. They sweltered below. The ferry ride quickly passed while Harry fumed over her good fortune. He had sweated with the masses.

  As they docked, she ran to his side. Harry glared at her.

  “Right, now you run to my side. Do you have any idea how hot it is down here? You appeared fresh and comfortable. Why did they choose you over the others?” He knew the answer.

  She replied, “Italian men are lovers, Harry.” They both laughed. Everyone seemed to love his love.

  Skillfully, Harry maneuvered the narrow streets of this ancient of ancient places. They enjoyed Sicilian pizza during their stroll on the cobblestone streets of Taormina. There, they spent three nights in a 5-star hotel of splendor. Flowers and water surrounded Hotel Villa Ducale. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner delighted their culinary senses on a balcony tucked between Mount Etna and the Mediterranean Sea. Nights truly soothed their very souls. They surveyed one of the most spectacular places in the world. Fauna and flora sparked Elizabeth’s interest. Invariably, she looked upward as Harry chided her for not observing where she walked. It was impossible for her not to point out the many birds and flowers. Leaving this place of peace and incomparable beauty proved hard, but they soon pressed on toward Brindisi. Another coastal town was their final Italian destination.

  Arrival there was slightly disappointing after the curving roads of the previous island. Their modern hotel, at the Oriental Hotel, proved an excellent choice due to the convenience of location. They were close to the port from which they planned departure in two days. Once they arrived, they turned in the car and enjoyed walking to the shops and restaurants. Any disappointment fled. Quickly, they realized that Brindisi held a noble port history of its own.

  Located in the region of Apulia in southern Italy, the capital of the province of Brindisi off the Adriatic Sea, proudly displays an impressive past. Historically, the city has played a significant role in trade and culture due to its strategic position on the Italian Peninsula and its natural port on the Adriatic Sea. This Italian Port City still is important in trade with Greece and the Middle East. Settled by the Greeks, before the Roman expansion, this is another fascinating ancient city. Location on a natural harbor stimulates Greek and Italian tourists. Many cathedrals, churches, and castles offer exploration by these explorers who clamor for passage on the ferries.

  Large ships lined the water for transporting visitors to nearby Greece. Excitement churned in the veins of a woman who was once afraid. Reminders, of her future status, only proved that she was not alone. Regularly, she studied the exquisite ring perched on her left hand. This awareness pushed her out of her comfort area. Boldly, she walked from their room for a day at the Spa. Harry also did not worry so much about her when she was out of sight. Life seemed normal, at last, for the woman who did not know herself. “Harry, whatever the future holds, I believe Italy held the best.”

  TWENTY-SEVEN: GREECE

  Their final day in Italy ranked as bittersweet. Thoughts of visiting the noble city of Athens overpowered Elizabeth. Hours spent at Edwina’s desk had empowered her ideas and thoughts of this awaiting memorable trip. Those tidbits, of the previous Mrs. Grover, allowed her to appreciate what she witnessed on her own each day both before Greece as well as her arrival in Athens. Without Edwina’s notes, she would not have understood the same depth of enrichment, which she now enjoyed. Lovingly, the first Mrs. Grover described hot days and passionate nights with her handsome husband. These tales did not upset Elizabeth. Instead, she cherished them.

  “Elizabeth, I spied a painting in one of the local stores yesterday. It has refused to leave my thoughts. Let’s have another look.”

  Harry’s appreciation for art im
pressed the young woman. Quietly, she followed him through the streets of Brindisi. A gentle rain fell, but they walked without rain gear or umbrellas. Her love for rainy days had spread to Harry. Eventually, he turned into a small and unpretentious storefront. Several customers mulled over the shop owner’s wares. A little Italian man rang a purchase for another couple. Elizabeth’s eyes darted speedily over the paintings. A smile caressed her lips.

  “There it is!” Everyone turned at the exuberance of the American tourist.

  She pointed to a rendition of a young woman with very dark hair who dressed in a bold red gown. Was it her or Edwina that he saw in the colorful art? It didn’t matter. Sometimes, it seemed as if she and Edwina were the same. She picked it up with wonder. It was not unusually large. They could easily fit it into their luggage. Harry could tell by her eyes that she loved it. Not a word uttered. He paid the friendly owner, and they continued their walk. Hastily, the day sped past. Soon, early evening found them in line for a Greek ferry. Although they enjoyed Brindisi, other beautiful places waited to be explored and loved.

  “I didn’t know which ferry line to pick. They have Italian and Greek. Hope that I chose the right one. So far everything has worked out fine. Just remember that on every trip, a little rain must fall. Else it wouldn’t be traveling.” A look of confusion attested the fact that he wasn’t kidding.

  As soon as they boarded, they looked at each other with disappointment.

  “Rain!” They said the word at the same moment.

  The lovely appearance, outside the stately ferry, did not carry inward. Here, the ship appeared old and in need of much work. Yesterday, when they reserved the last cabin for the night, they knew that the ferry filled for the crossing. Apparently, people enjoyed crossing from Italy to Greece on Friday nights for the weekend.

  “My choice of ships probably won’t matter,” he had said. As they entered the room, it did matter. Conditions were not up to par. The bedding was gray. So were the towels. Shock covered her face as she experienced “Rain” for the first time.

  “We showered before we left; so we won’t take another one. It will be all right.” Elizabeth tried to soothe him.

  He stood before her with a look of horror. None of this mattered to Harry; it was Elizabeth whom he wanted to impress with the trip. They slept on top of the bed although the room was cold. Apparently, the ship did not allow thermostats in passenger compartments. On top of everything, they were located behind the kitchen. All sorts of noises, from busy workers, echoed throughout the long night. Finally, unable to sleep, the couple ventured to the upper deck of the ship.

  Many young people slept under the stars with backpacks. The Grovers plight, compared to these folks, seemed easier to bear. At least, if it began to rain, Harry and Elizabeth would have a private space. These youngsters bore with gusto whatever waited for them throughout the night.

  Although Elizabeth did not speak Italian, Harry did. Easily, he conversed with the young students. What Elizabeth did learn was humanity for everyone. How joyful they appeared with their humble condition. These youngsters may not have realized it, but they had it far better than the people packed inside the old ferry.

  As the Grovers arrived, on the upper deck of the vessel, the night cleared. Stars filled the heavens while the vessel chugged through the open waters. Sea smells delighted the nostrils. Fresh air filled their lungs. The small group huddled together for warmth. The wealthy couple joined them. No one minded that they were not a part of the assembly. Happily, they welcomed the older strangers. Although she did not possess memory, she filed in her mind the reminder to be grateful in all circumstances. Softly, she whispered, “Be grateful in all circumstances.” A smile kissed her lips.

  “St. Paul said that,” she whispered. Harry smiled, he understood.

  The voyage took around sixteen hours. Conditions became colder, forcing the couple to return to their cabin. The young people only huddled tighter with broad, happy smiles as they waved goodbye to the Americans.

  Arrival day in Pathos, Greece was sunny and balmy with a gentle wind. Harry and Elizabeth were exhausted from lack of sleep the previous day. The Italian and Greek tourists left the ship with pats on the back and lively conversations. They seemed a hardier sort than the American couple. With labored steps and complaints from Harry, The Grovers quietly began the search for a hotel room.

  They did not look far, when they spied a restaurant. It was the first floor of a lively hotel. Gladly, they checked in for the night. The room was small and clean. Elizabeth fell on the bed in exhaustion. Last night, they lied on the bed together. That seemed natural. It was not at all uncomfortable for her. Still, Harry managed to reserve a room with twin beds on this bright day of adventure. He always thought of her comfort. He pulled the drapes. Instead of adventure, the couple opted for sleep. They slept in spite of the noise in the restaurant and streets below. Evening approached. Slowly, they awakened with hefty appetites.

  “Why don’t you remain here? I’ll go downstairs and bring something back for us.” He stroked her back; she appeared drained.

  “What and miss something? No way that I’m doing that.” She stood from the bed but swayed with tiredness.

  Outside, the air was warm. The fresh air stimulated such a strong desire for food. They had come to the right place. The gay restaurant, under their hotel, seemed to attract diners far and wide. Patrons stuffed themselves with dishes of seafood and steaks. The smells penetrated the air.

  “Elizabeth, Do you desire fish or steak?”

  Without hesitation, she answered, “One of each. Let’s split it so that we have one of each.”

  “You are a very smart girl.” He kissed her head.

  The waiter lovingly wrapped their choices for transport back to the room. There, they discovered that the room contained a small terrace overlooking the town. Saturday night sounds of people and cars, as they cruised downtown, provided entertainment. They relished the tastes provided for them.

  “Harry, this may be the best meal of my life.” A bright glow filled her eyes. He wondered how many times she had repeated that phrase. They showered after dinner for the trip tomorrow.

  “Elizabeth, tomorrow should be interesting. I have planned a bus trip from Patras to Athens. It is my desire to leave no stone unturned in our adventures. You will experience the very best and the ordinary. I know that you will find enjoyment in it all.” He was correct; if only she could have known what awaited.

  Daylight awakened them for yet another travel experience. She wasn’t sure about a bus ride but was game for anything he chose. Breakfast arrived with a knock on the door. When had he arranged this? She was with him each moment yesterday. He seemed capable of organizing miracles. The owner, of the diner beneath, stood with a tray loaded with croissants, butter, and coffee. Hungrily, they consumed breakfast with anticipation of what waited.

  How quickly time sped past. Before she blinked, they sat on a large bus filled with ordinary citizens. This local bus carried people in everyday situations. When travelers arrived, at their destination on the route, they pulled a chain to stop. Harry listened with fascination to the conversations around them. Fortunately, he understood several different languages. Elizabeth also enjoyed with awe although she didn’t understand a word.

  They stopped for lunch at a bus stop, where sandwiches and sodas waited for the crowd. Grover was correct, they enjoyed the best and the average, but joy waited in each situation. They again boarded the bus for Athens.

  “You are going to love our hotel. This 5-star is always my choice.” He looked a little smug. The excitement of new surroundings chided away any feelings of tiredness. She was now enjoying, “Mighty Athens.”

  “Welcome to your home for the next four days, my love. This luscious place is the Hotel Grande Bretagne. You will never erase the sights and smells from your mind.” This announcement from him welcomed her to an incredible structure built in 1874 with recent renovations.

  The room was vast an
d posh. Large windows displayed the adjacent Syntagma Square. Below their room bustled traffic and busy pedestrians. Harry explained these were the most luxurious accommodations in southern Europe.

  He pulled her close, into the smells of travel which surrounded him. These same smells covered the young woman. Pleasant smells of outdoors, other travelers, and food. Buried in these smells were the familiar fragrance of their personal odors. These, they recognized and embraced. Familiarity, in spite of such unfamiliar places, soothed the weary travelers. Together, they studied the view outside of their room. He explained that they slept only l.6 meters from both the Acropolis and Parthenon. They would visit all this as well as parks, museums, and local neighborhood.

  Evenings would provide delights. Lazily, they enjoyed dinner, on the rooftop above. Fabulous views at night of the lights of the Parthenon and the Acropolis never disappointed the lovers. Stars shined on sights which once beguiled brilliant minds of ancient philosophers. They recognized their smallness as they witnessed all of this. Most amazing remained the firmament above. Those stars dazzled the wealthy and the poor; the old and the young; as well as ancient and current. Still, they remained the most breath-taking of all to the young woman without memory.

  TWENTY-EIGHT: RAIN

  All good things must come to an end. Much too quickly, they sped through the late morning traffic of Athens. Harry refused to relinquish anything about the next destination city. Elizabeth noticed that her palms were wet. The unknown continued to create anxiety for the woman without memory. Still, she carried herself with boldness and grace.

  As they pulled into the train station, she considered all that they had experienced on this trip: large ocean liners, ferries, gondolas, water taxis, a bus, a plane, expensive hotels, modest inns, the best train in the world, and now another adventure. What secrets did Mr. Grover have up his sleeve? She pondered how fascinating he was.