“I’m not a puppet master, Barbara,” Kendra said. “I have a special gift that allows me to see possibilities, and I try to guide others to see those possibilities.”
“Well, it seems to be working well this weekend.” Barbara looked back at Gillian and Andrew sitting close together.
“I’m glad that’s happening,” Kendra said. “Gillian has been going through a rough patch. You may have noticed her mood changes. She has a tendency toward that bipolar disorder. I have been counseling her, and I think I’ve got her back on track. Andrew will be good for her. He knows about her mermaid origins. She won’t have to pretend with him.”
“Is that so important?” Barbara said. “Would I have to tell Graham about being a mermaid?”
“It is always a good idea to start with no secrets. Whatever you decide to keep hidden could implode later, with disastrous results.”
“I don’t want to go through that again.” Barbara shuddered.
“I take it Stewart is out of the picture.”
Barbara realized she had only mentioned Graham’s name. “It’s so strange. When I was talking with Andrew, I kept seeing flashes of Stewart in him. I hadn’t realized before just how similar the two men are. They’re both so attractive, so dynamic. I think I was infatuated with both of them. And now that’s over.”
“So, what are you going to do about it?”
“I can’t do a thing. Graham wants nothing to do with me. He made that very clear last time we spoke.”
Kendra shook her head. “Nothing is ever final. Everything is subject to change.”
“I guess.” Barbara attacked her eggs and focused on eating. It was easier.
Kendra reached over and squeezed her hand. “You’ve imposed this unrealistic deadline upon yourself, and it is totally unnecessary. You don’t have to get it together in twelve months time. You have an entire lifetime ahead of you to plan, make mistakes, plan again, and live.”
Barbara’s eyes glistened with tears and she could only nod in agreement.
Kendra continued. “When we spoke last month, I talked about the two men who would enter your life. Andrew was one of those men. The other one will arrive shortly.”
“You know who he is, don’t you?”
“As I said before, I am aware of all the possibilities in your life.”
“Why can’t you share that information with me?” Barbara asked. “It would help if I knew who to expect. I could be prepared.”
“I don’t want you to prepare for any specific event or meeting. You should be ready to take advantage of all the opportunities that arise.” She raised both hands. “Accept every invitation. Follow each whim. Some will work out, others won’t. But don’t give up.”
Barbara recognized the advice as her own. It was the main focus of her book and the workshops she facilitated.
Kendra smiled. “That’s right, Counselor, counsel thyself.”
“I’ll have to watch my thoughts when I’m around you. Can you read everyone’s mind?”
“I don’t read minds,” Kendra said. “I just sense feelings, and I must admit you’re easy to read. You wear your feelings.”
“Not always a good thing. I guess I should develop a thicker skin.”
“Maybe, maybe not. Just accept yourself the way you are. You’ve accomplished a great deal in the few months you’ve been on earth. The rest of us had men to guide us.”
“Who was your first human?” Barbara asked.
“A politician who kept me well hidden.”
Barbara’s eyes popped. “You gave up your tail for an affair!”
“I wasn’t as evolved back then. But I’ve learned a lot in the past thirty years.” She took Barbara’s hands in hers. “It was probably for the best that you did not go off with Andrew.”
“Yes, I can see that now,” Barbara said. “I think he might have hidden me somewhere in the English countryside. He would never have included me in his life.”
“That is very likely, and I’m glad you’re realizing it now. While your grandmother is not one of my favorite mermaids, I must agree with her. Andrew did you a favor by leaving. And maybe she was right in not telling you about his return.” Kendra looked toward Gillian and Andrew. “Gillian will immediately fit into Andrew’s world. There will be no problem there.”
Barbara had conflicted feelings when it came to Annabella, but she didn’t want to spend any more time talking about her. Kendra would be leaving soon and she still had a number of issues to discuss. “I’m worried about my housing situation. Elaine will be returning at the end of the month, and I don’t have a place lined up. Lisa738, Sharon, and my colleagues have all been helping, but I can’t get too excited about any of the apartments they’ve found for me.”
Kendra smiled mysteriously. “You are wise not to rush into any of those apartments. And I agree that you shouldn’t invest in property at this time.”
“So, what do I do?”
“Keep yourself open to all possibilities.”
“But what if nothing comes up?”
“I don’t like to plan for negative situations, but if you must do so ask the Numbers mermaid to research short-term rentals. They’ll be a little more expensive, but you can renew them on a monthly basis.”
“How much more expensive do you think they’ll be?”
“By the end of this month, you will have lived rent-free for six months. Not too many humans have that privilege.”
Kendra was right. Even if she had to bite the bullet and spend two thousand dollars or more for a month or two, it would not be the end of the world.
“Now about the BMW,” Kendra said. “Detach from the car if you want to detach from the man.”
“Give up the car! I need it for work.” She thought of the comfortable, luxurious interior and the admiring looks she received on the road.
“It’s just a car, Barbara. It’s not an extension of you. Spend some time shopping around, and ask the Numbers mermaid to help you.”
Barbara had known all along she would have to return the car, but she didn’t think it would have to be so soon. She realized that Kendra was right. As long as she kept the BMW, she was attached to Stewart. “I’ll start looking online. I’ll talk with Lisa738 about the financing, but I want to find my own car.” She could feel a small gurgle of excitement as she thought of buying her own new car.
The two women ate quietly, each one contemplating her plans for the day and coming week. They looked up when Gillian and Andrew arrived at their table.
“We’re going to spend the rest of the afternoon together. Andrew’s flight leaves early this evening.” Gillian sounded so happy and she couldn’t take her eyes off of Andrew. She hugged Barbara and spoke to Kendra. “I’ll see you back at the hotel.”
Andrew nodded in Kendra’s direction and embraced Barbara tightly. He stood back and gazed at her fondly for a few minutes. “Ciao, Bella.”
Chapter 41
Barbara spent almost two weeks looking for a new car. She bought a copy of the latest Consumer Report and read it during lunch and her breaks. In the evenings, she visited various dealerships throughout the city. She enjoyed test-driving the latest models and discussing their features with the salespersons. After talking with Lisa738, she decided to lease rather than buy. It made more sense with her line of work; she could claim driving expenses for income tax purposes.
She finally settled on a Toyota Corolla in a lovely mint green. She read through all the agreements and discussed the terms with Lisa738. She was enjoying her daily chats with the Numbers mermaid and would miss her once the tablet expired.
Barbara asked Mario and Nico to help her return the BMW. They followed her in their car to the Mississauga dealership. Josh Levine was at a loss for words when she handed him the keys to the BMW. This was a first for him. Barbara suspected he would call Stewart the minute she left the building.
Mario and Nico exchanged a few glances but said nothing about the terse exchange with Josh. While walking out of
the dealership, they spoke of their plans for the coming weekend and suggested dinner at a new Greek restaurant. Barbara appreciated their tact and accepted the invitation, offering to treat them.
The next day was Saturday. Barbara drove the Corolla for the first time and found herself adapting to the smaller, more compact vehicle. She found it easier than the BMW to park and maneuver in tight spots.
In mid afternoon, she made herself a cup of tea and sat by the phone. She took a deep breath and dialed Stewart’s number. It rang a few times and Barbara momentarily panicked. What if he wasn’t home? Should she leave a message? What could she say? She had not planned anything and did not want to just hang up.
“Hello, Barbara.” The familiar voice sounded weary.
“Hello, Stewart. How are you doing?”
“I’m fine. Josh called yesterday.” Stewart paused. “I didn’t expect to hear from him.”
“I want to thank you for the car. It was a lovely gift, and I enjoyed driving it. But I can no longer accept it. I’ve leased my own car, and I’m moving on with my life.”
“Without me, you mean.”
“Yes, Stewart. I was very flattered by all your attention, but I don’t see a future for us. I hope we can stay friends and continue with a professional relationship. If not, I’ll understand and get another agent.”
“Those are usually my parting lines. I can’t say I’m enjoying this.” He cleared his throat. “I’ll continue to represent you for this book. As it is, you’ll be dealing primarily with Melanie. When you write your second book, you can decide whether or not to continue with me.”
Barbara had been expecting more resistance. The return of the car did it, she thought. Kendra was right. As soon as she detached from the car, she could then detach from the man.
The awkward silence continued. “Take care, Barbara.” He hung up.
Barbara picked up her cup and winced at the lukewarm tea. I should really get up and make myself another cup, she thought, as she sank into the comfortable sofa.
The loud banging on the door startled her. “Barbara, we know you’re in there. Are you ready yet? We’re going to be late.”
Mario and Nico. What are they doing here? Barbara gasped. The Greek dinner. She had forgotten all about it, and she had offered to treat them. She looked down at her jeans and sighed. She could only imagine how she looked with no makeup and bed hair. She got up and opened the door.
The two men looked at her, aghast. They were both dressed to the nines, with brand new blazers, cashmere sweaters, and black dress pants. Mario shook his head and looked at Nico. “You’ll have to do something fast. She can’t go out looking like this.”
Barbara reddened. “Just give me a few minutes. I’ll change.”
Nico took charge. “You’ll need more than a few minutes.” He turned to Mario. “Call the restaurant and change the reservation to an hour later.” He shook his head at Barbara. “Take a shower and do something with that hair. I’ll select your outfit for the evening.”
Barbara looked longingly at the couch. She had the beginnings of a headache and wanted to stay home, but she couldn’t disappoint the men. She quickly showered, donned her robe, and restyled her hair. Her heart stopped when she saw what Nico had selected for her. It was the emerald green dress, Stewart’s Christmas gift. She hadn’t worn it since Boxing Day. She opened her mouth to protest, but realized she didn’t have the time or energy to pick another outfit. She dressed and took extra care with her makeup. When she stepped outside the bedroom, the two men whistled.
Mario nodded in approval. “Now, that’s more like it. Let’s go.”
She leaned back and enjoyed the drive to the north end of the city. Once inside the restaurant, she was happy that her friends had talked her into coming. The warm, intimate ambience and mouth-watering aromas were heavenly. She looked forward to having an authentic Greek meal, cooked by the hottest new chef in Toronto.
The maitre d’ greeted Nico warmly and seated them near the center of the establishment. Nico and Mario discussed the wine list with the server and finally settled on a Chardonnay.
The men shook their heads and smiled at each other. “They’re still staring,” Nico noted.
“I wonder who they are and who they want.” Mario laughed and gestured toward Barbara. “I think they may be looking at you, Barbara.”
Barbara groaned. Just what I need, she thought, more men to complicate my life. I got rid of one today, and I’m still feeling the aftermath.
“Don’t be like that,” Nico said. “Just flirt a bit. They won’t bite, and if they get too obnoxious, Mario and I will defend your honor and whisk you away.”
They all laughed at the idea. Nico and Mario continued to watch the occupants at the other table. Barbara had her back to them, and she had no desire to turn and acknowledge their presence.
“Father and son, for sure. I’m trying to figure out who’s accompanying the goddess.” Mario quickly amended while smiling at Barbara, “I mean the other goddess in the room.”
“She’s with the old man. Look how close they’re sitting. The son is the odd man out and not too happy about it,” Nico said.
“But they’re all staring at us. Maybe they want some kind of threesome” Mario said.
Barbara shifted awkwardly. “I’m not comfortable with that idea.”
“She’s coming this way.” Nico’s raised his voice, and his eyes sparkled with excitement.
“Relax and be cool. Let me do the talking,” Mario said.
As she breathed in the other woman’s soft flowery scent, Barbara had a sudden urge to get up and leave the room.
Mario and Nico stood. “Would you like to join us? I’m Mario DiPietro and this is Nico Angelis. This lovely lady is . . .”
“Isabella, is that you?”
Barbara gasped as she looked up into a familiar pair of green eyes. The porcelain skin was framed by a luscious set of red, gold waves that cascaded to her shoulders. Barbara’s lips parted and her throat constricted. She managed to whisper, “Mirabella.”
“Isabella, Mirabella? Are you secret agents or something?” Mario asked playfully.
“When we were young, we played together and gave each other ‘Bella’ names. Our mothers were sisters, sisters who fought and did not speak for over twenty years.” Mirabella sighed. “It’s been a long time, dear cousin. Too long.”
“A reunion. How wonderful.” Nico’s eyes were tearing as he continued to gaze at the two women.
Mirabella waved toward the other table. She smiled mischievously at Barbara. “You must meet my husband and stepson. I think you already know one of them very well.”
A tall, distinguished gentleman appeared at her side. Dressed casually in a sports jacket and jeans, he still managed to exude that moneyed look. A thick, well-maintained mane of white hair framed a tanned face with warm hazel eyes that were appraising her. He wore an amused expression on his face. “We meet again, Barbara. I’m glad to see you looking so well.”
Barbara acknowledged the great Paul Armstrong. She closed her eyes and thought of her bedraggled appearance that first night in Carden. She mentally thanked Nico and Mario for helping her get ready for tonight’s dinner.
Barbara watched as Mirabella expertly handled all the introductions. She was definitely quick on her feet and skilled at getting out of tight spots. Barbara caught the tail end of the introductions as Mirabella nodded toward another man who had joined the group.
“And this is Paul’s son, Graham Scott.”
Heart pulsing in her ears, Barbara felt the room grow bleary as dark speckles closed in on her vision before all faded to dark.
Chapter 42
Barbara slowly opened her eyes and took in the small, cramped office with piles of paper scattered on every available surface. Her eyes traveled the room and finally settled on the beautiful, red-haired woman sitting next to her. Mirabella. Her mother. So she hadn’t been dreaming.
“You certainly know how to create drama,�
� Mirabella said. “Four men, five if you count the manager, gathered around you and made such a fuss.” She smiled ruefully. “The manager thought you would be more comfortable in his office.” She handed Barbara a glass of water.
Barbara drank from the glass and tried to focus her attention. She remembered meeting Mirabella, Paul, and Graham. “I didn’t know Graham was Paul’s son.”
“You spent four months in Carden and didn’t figure that out? Especially in that town.” Mirabella shuddered.
“You lived there?” Barbara asked.
“For almost five months.” She continued bitterly. “All those people constantly asking questions and poking into my business. I made it very clear to Paul that I would stay with him only if we moved away. I couldn’t and wouldn’t spend the rest of my human life wasting away in Carden. You were smart to get away. I’m certain you have a better arrangement here. But I’m curious. How did you manage it so quickly?” She looked at Barbara with interest and envy.
Barbara gave her an abbreviated version of her life on earth. As she spoke, she noticed Mirabella’s eyes widening in surprise until, finally, a look of horror appeared on her features. “So, in less than a month, you could be homeless and manless.” She shook her head and muttered, “I’ll have to work fast.”
“Now, you feel that you have to do something for me? What has changed, Mirabella? You left three days after I was born and never looked back. When I arrived on earth six months ago, you didn’t bother to call or visit. You sent Paul who graciously gave me free accommodation, but with an expiration date. You . . .” She gasped for air and stopped to drink more water.
“Annabella has turned you against me.” She looked toward the door. “We have some time. I asked Nico to order for us.” She looked directly at Barbara. “Are you ready to hear the truth?”
Barbara opened her mouth, but then decided against sarcasm. Instead, she nodded and waited for Mirabella to continue.
“Annabella was grooming me for a position as an elder. In time, she promised I would assume leadership of the Mediterranean tribe. I obeyed her and was happy in the kingdom. When I reached the quarter-century mark, she surprised me with a celebration. Mermaids and mermen from all ends of the kingdom came to the feast. It was there that I met my twin, Sarabella, for the first time.” Mirabella’s eyes watered and she took a moment to recover. “I was shocked to learn of her existence and to hear why she had been banished to Crete. You see, she wasn’t a perfect Bella. Her eyes were a mixed color and her lips were not as full as ours.”
Between Land and Sea Page 21