The Second Mate

TWENTY-SIX

Marianne sat on the airport's waiting area while she fiddled through her phone. She remembered the foreign language the townspeople often used and it narrowed her search. Finally, after half an hour of scrolling through her phone, she found the small town and booked herself a flight. She played with the tips of her hair which were now black. Sylvia had offered to use magic but Marianne needed to be cautious. She didn't know the extent of the Order of the Brethren's capabilities. What she was aware of was their sensitivity to magic and she wasn't taking any risks. Before they could arrive at the airport, Marianne had them stop to buy a can of hair spray. They dyed her hair before they continued to the airport.

An hour later, Marianne's flight was announced. She got up from her chair and pulled her suitcase behind as she headed to queue.

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Marianne smiled after she saw familiar faces. She saw Agatha hitting one of her grandsons with a fan before she scolded the guy for always slacking off and playing with the damned guitar. She giggled at the spectacle before her attention was caught by Stefan's voice. The old man was showing off the big fish he caught to passing tourists with great pride.

Marianne's headed turned to the familiar bell that clinked from a door that was pulled open. Daniel served his customers and just like always, the bakery was packed with customers. The young man noticed her staring. Philippe was right, Marianne saw the lovestruck look from the patissier as he gazed at her. She smiled at him before Daniel's attention was caught by a staff calling his name. He took a second to respond to the server but when he turned back, Marianne was no longer there.

Marianne headed to the same stall where Aryan had bought her a banana milkshake. She bought one for herself and looked for the same chair she shared with the weretiger. She settled on the bench and nostalgia hit her. She didn't know she was crying until the cold breeze caressed her cheek. She wiped the liquid that tainted her cheeks. If it was all a dream, was the time she spent with Aryan also just pretense. He was like a father to her and most of their memories together were spent on this little town. She just wished the man still held the same fatherly affection he always treated her with. She finished her drink before she continued with her walk. She continued sight seeing, wondering how she remembered the place like the palm of her hands if it was only a dream.

"Maybe this world is more mysterious than what I'd imagined." Marianne mumbled to herself.

She was brought to a stop as she looked up at the sign of the store. Kristin's Glass Garden. Marianne bit her lower lip before she entered the shop. Her eyes landed at the counter.

"Good day! I hope you're enjoying your stay at the town. My name is Kristin and welcome to my shop! We offer all local flowers and plants."

Marianne turned to the woman who placed the spray bottle down. She smiled at Kristin before giving her a hug.

"Ohhh." Kristin spoke in surprise before smiling and returning the gesture.

"I'm sorry, I got carried away. The town is just beautiful. Lots of friendly people and it just feels like home." Marianne sent her a sheepish smile.

Kristin waved a hand. "No worries, Darling. We do our best to make the people feel welcomed."

Marianne smiled at her.

"Well, can I help you with something?" Kristin asked before the silence could spoil the mood.

"Ahhh, yes. I was wondering if a man named Gerrant lived in the area? I'm hoping he would be here otherwise hours of travel would be such a waste." Marianne responded.