Carl chuckled softly. “You do see through me all the time, don’t you? I figured this will be the last family home event we can all enjoy. When she leaves for college, do you think she will have enough time for activities like this during her breaks?”
“You’re right. But I sense something more is brewing in your head.”
“Hahaha. Okay, I admit. I want to see Charlie play using her special powers to make those balls move and those darts land where she wants them to. I reckon that with a few weeks practice, we’ll see her potential in honing them. If Hilary’s school calls her, she’ll be in a better position to explain what she can actually do in terms of power, display, and control.”
The first tournament evening was fun. Carl challenged his daughter to use her powers and outdo him. She interpreted the dare as her father’s way of letting her know he believed she did not know how to harness her abilities. She focused on the darts or the balls, concentrating so hard her head hurt.
Charlie lost to Carl in pool and won over Sarah in darts. Sarah won in darts against Carl but lost to him in pool. It was an evening of endless teasing from her dad, and Charlie vowed to get even the next evening. Back in her room, she admitted she was intimidated by her father’s challenge and blamed her loss to that gnawing feeling in her guts.
Dad is a wise man. He knows that to bring out the best in me is to push me to the edge. When I feel I’m not good enough, I get nervous but a light switch eventually turns on and brightens the path I should follow to overcome. Before turning off the night lamp, she looked at the framed photo of Hilary and Jeanne on her bedside table and wondered how it was for her sister to grow up without parents. The sense of empathy filled her and she vowed to find Jeanne. She was certain Carl and Sarah would welcome her with open arms.
CHAPTER 4: At the Crossroads
“Come in.” Amanda Pitt looked up from her work to greet the student who wanted to speak with her about meeting someone in Boston who exhibited telekinetic powers.
“Good morning, Ms. Pitt,” greeted Hilary. “You wanted to see me.” Hilary did not ask a question. The students at ANDREI were trained to give statements with confidence, not ask questions in uncertainty.
“Yes, Hilary, take a seat. Now tell me what you wrote to this new acquaintance named Charlie.”
“I told her you expressed interest in how she stopped a moving bullet aimed at me. I also told her I shared her email address with you.”
Amanda weighed her words before speaking. “So you are confirming that this Charlie exhibited telekinetic powers without concern of being seen or noticed?”
Hilary replied, “To my knowledge, her foremost concern was blocking an object that she believed was potentially life threatening. She told me she thought it was a regular bullet that could have seriously injured or even killed me.”
“To the best of your knowledge, have you encountered any person outside ANDREI who has psychokinetic powers?”
“No, Ms. Pitt, I have not… until I met Charlie.”
Amanda pursed her lips and watch Hilary, holding her fingers in a steeple under her chin as she considered her. “Well, Hilary, I admit I am intrigued at this first report ever on the existence of a person outside our institution who has special powers. Do you have anything to say about this?”
Hilary felt uncomfortable about being pressed into answering the question. “Ms. Pitt, I reported the facts objectively. If my subjective input is of any interest to you, allow me to say that Charlie Hartley is the spitting image of Jeanne Weaver, who is now at the ATC.”
Hilary’s statement hit Amanda like the jubilant sound effects of a slot machine - jangly music, whirring spinning reels accompanied by beeps and chimes. She was glad to swivel her chair towards the window behind her desk, keeping the flush of red color rising on her face away from Hilary’s observant eyes.
“I know where Jeanne Weaver is, Hilary. Thank you. You may go now.”
After a moment’s hesitation, almost as if to speak, Hilary stood up and left. Amanda watched the girl leave from over her shoulder, calculating her approach for Charlene Hartley, and picked up the phone.
At the Hartley home, the phone rang three times before the caller was diverted to the voice message feature. Charlie ran down the stairs as the answering machine beeped. “Good morning, is this the home of Ms. Charlene Hartley? This is Amanda Pitt calling from the Genetic Engineering and Neuro-Science Laboratories. I am calling to…” Charlie jerked the phone up and answered.
“Hello, Ms. Pitt, this is Charlie Hartley.”
“Oh, hello, Ms. Hartley. I’m glad you picked up. This was the only number in Milford listed under Hartley, so I took a chance. How are you?”
“Please call me Charlie. I’m alright, ma’am. Hilary did tell me you wanted to know more about the incident at Fenway Park.”
“Yes, I do. In fact, unless you or your parents object, I would like to meet you all in Milford next week.” Charlie was silent at the other end of the line. Amanda clenched one fist in a tight ball until her knuckles showed. She pleaded in silence, “Please say yes.”
“Ms. Pitt, my parents and I would be honored to have you as our guest. Do you have a date in mind?”
Amanda’s face broke into a big smile. “That’s wonderful, Charlie. Thank you. I’ll book a flight for next week and email you the details. Have a good evening.”
Charlie put the phone down after it disconnected, happy at the opportunity to learn more about her sister presented itself through that phone call. She counted the days, excited about the arrival of Amanda Pitt.
The chartered plane operated by Meliaire Aviation took off at Burlington with Amanda on board. Three hours and twenty five minutes later, the pilot made a smooth landing at Tweed New Haven Regional Airport.
It was a breeze renting a car and driving past New Haven Harbor to the Hilton Garden along Old Lane Gate Lane. Amanda liked the 120-room hotel for its indoor pool, gym and self-adjusting sleep system beds. A stickler for fitness and health, the lean and trim woman in her late forties viewed exercise as a religion and practiced it in her daily life.
At the Hartley home, Charlie did a last minute check on the dining table setting while Sarah turned off the oven. When the doorbell rang, they took off their aprons and went to meet their guest.
After the necessary introductions, Sarah led the way to the formal dining room. Amanda delighted in the cozy home of the Hartleys. “It reminds me of the home where I grew up. My mom tended a flower garden, so we always had fresh flowers in the house, just like this,” pointing to the assorted floral arrangement.
“Thank you, Amanda. Carl has the green thumb in the family, while I wear the chef’s hat. Charlie inhales the flower scents and devours the food.” They all laughed at Sarah’s joke and sat down for early dinner. Carl arrived just in time, after Charlie started serving the minestrone.
Over a carefully planned Italian dinner, Amanda explained more about ANDREI and how its students were meticulously prepared for the noble mission of upholding the United States’ national security. Carl and Sarah asked many questions, which Amanda addressed to their satisfaction. Charlie rubbed her chin as she patiently waited for the right time to inquire about Jeanne.
“Charlie, how long have you known about your telekinetic abilities?” Amanda asked while taking one of Sarah’s little dessert treats layered with cake, mousse, pastry cream and berries.
Charlie jumped at the first opening she got. “Since I was a toddler. Dad and Mom have built a collection of stories to share about my neat little tricks. But beware; they’re mostly about rolling pencils and dancing spoons. Hilary didn’t mention much about Jeanne. What power does she have?”
The abrupt change of subject didn’t bother or shock Amanda in the least. “Hilary did tell me you have a striking resemblance to her.”
“Yes, I now know that she and I are identical twins. I would like to meet her as soon as possible.”
Amanda was intrigued at the girl’s close resemblance no
t only to Jeanne, but also to a former work colleague. However, she chose to keep this to herself. “Jeanne is now training with an elite group to further develop exemplary display and control of her ergokinetic powers, which is the ability to create, shape and manipulate energy.”
Charlie’s eyes lit up at the confirmation of her sister manifesting a special power as well, but she was let down by the circumstances that would not allow her to meet her sister. “Is there a way you can help me reach her?”
Amanda reassured her, “It’s highly unlikely if you attempted to find her yourself. But if you join us at ANDREI, I can find a way for the two of you to meet.”
At that point Carl interjected, “Do you mean Charlie can develop her powers at ANDREI under special conditions? She is all set to go to Harvard in the fall.” He looked at his daughter to gauge her thoughts.
Amanda was apologetic. “I’m sorry to have jumped the gun, Carl. I should have made a formal offer first. The conversation just led from one thing to another. With your and Sarah’s permission, I would like to meet Charlie tomorrow for some screening.”
“I see. The decision is Charlie’s. She is an adult. ” Carl said.
“Charlie, think carefully about your decision, but know that whatever you choose, we’re a hundred percent behind you.” Sarah searched Charlie’s face for any sign of hesitancy.
Charlie suggested, “If it’s alright with you, Ms. Pitt, we can use our basement tomorrow where we will be undisturbed.” She was keen on establishing a stronger connection to her twin, and Amanda seemed to be the way to make that happen.
Amanda agreed to return the next day. She thanked the family for hosting a superb dinner and invited them to lunch at her hotel before the testing.
On the way to the Hilton Garden the next day, Carl asked Charlie what she thought of Amanda and ANDREI.
“Honestly, Dad, I’d do anything to find Jeanne. If it takes going through the training phases Amanda explained to us yesterday, I’d do it. That would be killing two birds with one stone, wouldn’t it? I find my sister and I hone my powers, which is what you and Mom want.”
Sarah opined, “Learning to control your powers will ensure your safety, Princess. But undergoing training may derail your plans for your future. What I’m saying is you may be faced with a potentially life changing decision.”
Carl added, “For now, I suggest you keep your options open. Listen to what Amanda says and tread cautiously. I like the thought of Jeanne coming home to us and becoming part of our family, but not at the expense of your safety and future.”
“I know, Dad. I’ll be careful, promise,” Charlie murmured.
At the hotel restaurant, the four sat down for a lunch that was light yet appetizing. Amanda explained more about the institute.
“The two-year training is strict and rigid and I expect only the best from my students.” She addressed Charlie, “Andreians are scholars who are trained, fed, clothed and housed at government expense. Think of yourself as an asset to the country.”
The conversation gradually shifted to less serious stuff. When they learned it was Amanda’s first time at Milford, Charlie told Amanda, “Mom and Dad have a dental appointment after lunch, so we can have the house to ourselves. When we’re done, I can show you around Milford.”
“How thoughtful of you, Charlie. Yes, I’d love to see a bit of the place before flying back to Kit Carson tomorrow.”
After lunch, Carl and Sarah thanked Amanda and left Charlie to ride with Amanda back to Claremont Circle.
In the privacy of the Hartley basement, Amanda conducted the screening process, which included Charlie’s display of her telekinetic abilities based on Amanda’s specific instructions. Charlie eagerly demonstrated what she did best: controlling light objects.
“Charlie, let’s move on to heavier objects. Impress me.” Intimidation and trepidation tickled Charlie’s mind. She looked around the room and focused on the velvet lined poker table. She couldn’t make it move. She tried the metal shoe rack with the same result.
Amanda looked disappointed but said nothing. Charlie squirmed in her seat as she willed more objects to move but to no avail. Exasperated, she raised her arms in disgust, frustration and surrender. That was when the bathroom door fell on the carpet with a big thud.
Amanda expressed surprise. “Charlie! How did you do that?” Charlie opened her eyes, frightened at what damage the loud thud may have caused. She looked at Amanda with innocent eyes and shrugged her shoulders.
Amanda, unsatisfied with the noncommittal answer, continued the testing, asking Charlie questions to gauge her aptitude for learning as well as her physical fitness level. While the headmaster was satisfied with Charlie, she did not seem impressed or enthusiastic. Charlie felt all her hopes of meeting Jeanne fly out the window. Amanda would not invite her to ANDREI.
By the time Amanda gathered her purse and folder, Charlie was distraught. Then Amanda spoke: “Based on what you’ve shown me today, I’d say your powers, albeit limited now, can fully work to your advantage with ANDREI’s sufficient and efficient training. I’m willing to bend the rules for you to join the incoming batch this year.”
Charlie’s eyes lit up. “Is that a firmer offer than what you said yesterday?”
“I suppose it is.” Amanda smiled at Charlie’s enthusiasm. “Well, Charlie, this is about as much as we can do for now. How about we get started on the Milford tour while I explain how joining ANDREI can serve you well.”
After a quick restroom stop, Amanda and Charlie climbed into the rental car for the tour. Following Charlie’s directions, Amanda drove out of the cul-de-sac and headed for Lover’s Leap State Park off Grove Street. The walk-in park was a popular destination with hiking trails, scenic vistas and historic ruins. She turned onto Lover’s Leap Road and cruised along until they reached a hiking trail.
“The park is the home of the Berlin Iron Bridge, built in 1888. Beyond it is the Lover’s Leap Trail leading to the rock formation that gives the park its name. Tradition has it that the Pootatuck Indian Chief Waramaug’s daughter, Princess Lillinonah, and her lover plunged to their deaths there.”
Amanda sighed. “What a tragic story. Not many people these days will go to that extent for love.”
As they continued to follow the trail and admire the scenic view, Amanda’s voice turned serious.
“Charlie, I hope you will seriously consider joining ANDREI. My invite is actually a unique offer because ANDREI has not offered training to someone who hasn’t gone through the Conditioning and Evaluation Phase. You are the first. The reason I am going out on a limb for you is because I am convinced your powers can be elevated to an irreproachable level.”
“Ms. Pitt, if I accepted your offer, will I meet my sister?”
“I admire your persistence in getting in touch with Jeanne when your only tie with her is a photo. But I promise you this. I will tap my contacts and associates to help you meet her. For now, you have to decide whether it will be Harvard or ANDREI, so you have to be a hundred percent sure before committing to one.
“When the government selected Jeanne, she knew the program was a highly confidential one. Confidentiality is supreme when one commits to such an endeavor. I myself do not know her exact location. I only know that ANDREI is the best source of the government’s elite group of defenders of global peace.”
Charlie understood Amanda but also realized if she declined the offer, she would lose the only link to Jeanne. She cleared her throat and asked, “How much time do I have to make a decision?”
Amanda was thoughtful. “Hmmm, the incoming batch already commenced CEP. Just submit your latest annual physical exam. I’ll need a certificate from your doctor, then you can join us in September.”
Charlie had enough time to discuss the pros and cons with her parents. “I’ll let you know by mid-August at the latest. Thank you for the special offer and for coming all the way to Milford. Meeting my parents and me personally did create a stronger impact on us.”
/> Amanda and Charlie shook hands and returned to the car. They drove through Clatter Valley and Harrybrook Park before heading home. Amanda complimented Milford for the pretty and peaceful trails for people to run, walk, hike, and bike on.
Back at the Hartley home, Carl and Sarah listened intently to Charlie’s appraisal of Amanda. They all agreed to give themselves time to mull over the offer. Charlie had never been fond of the idea that another person would do tests on her in regards to her power, but it felt like a chance she may never have again. To meet Jeanne, who was more than likely her lost twin sister, tempted her into taking her chances with ANDREI and postponing the first step of her dream career. Family is more important than some career, right? Charlie thought, but she didn't want to make the decision in haste. She would wait until the given deadline, and allow herself time to consider her options.
Somewhere in her heart, however, she felt that it was fate that beckoned her to find Jeanne, instead. It may not be entirely a coincidence that I met Hilary after the game. Charlie thought of the girl who introduced her to the new possibilities that had opened up for her. She wondered how Hilary was doing and wanted to ask further about ANDREI. Charlie propped up her laptop and decided to check for Hilary’s email address in her inbox, hoping to catch up with her.
The following morning, Charlie began her email exchange with Hilary. Hilary quickly replied. In the span of time they’d corresponded, Charlie had picked up details about student life at ANDREI as well as background stories of Jeanne and Hilary growing up at the orphanage. She learned that Jeanne was found by emergency responders on a grassy slope several feet away from the car wreckage. Apparently the door on her side had flung open, and by some stroke of fate, she was hurled out of the car, which explained the empty second car seat Carl saw.
The family pool and darts tournament continued as the bottle jars filled up with tokens. Carl and Sarah were pleased that Charlie was more open to displaying her powers while aiming her cue ball at its targets and her darts at the bull’s eye. She even went so far as forecasting which pocket a ball would end up in and where a dart would land. By the end of two weeks, Charlie summoned her telekinetic powers in pool and darts with more confidence and displayed better results.
The Unlocked (Charlie Hartley Series Book 1) Page 5