Shadows Of The Past

Chapter Twenty Three

It was dark, when they stepped out in the porch. Damien was patient with them answering all their questions and telling them about all the folklore they had to hear. 

When Damien insisted, they all stayed back for dinner. Samantha immediately called Layla telling about the change in their plans and dived into the local food served by Eliza which was sumptuous. 

When they stepped out on the porch whole front yard was well lit and looked breathtaking. 

"Your house is beautiful Damien. Thanks for having us today" Kayla spoke

"You are welcome. To be honest I enjoyed having you all here. Been a long time since I had some personal guests."

She saw Samantha, Kate and Max was walking in front of them taking in all the beauty. Max even used his night camera taking some pictures and Kate was prompt enough to be the model.

"You do have a typical oxford English though your voice is dipped in that southern accent" Kayla said

"I hope it's not bad"

"No, Of course not. Its so good. I enjoyed hearing you today. You are good story teller"

He smiled - another breathtaking image

"I forgot to ask you - where do you guys stay here?"

"We stay at the outskirts - Miller Household"

"Millers? Mystique Mansion?" he asked amazed

His dark eyes were storming with the thoughts. Kayla could make he knew something

"What is it? What do you know? I see people don't think very high of that place? Is there a problem?"

"I don't think so" 

"Come on Damien. I know that look - have seen it on Mrs. Whitmore's face today when she asked the same question"

"Can't blame people"

"It would be good if I am not kept in dark" she looked at him - her earnest amethyst eyes looking straight into his stormy grey eyes

He sighed. "How about we meet tomorrow at lunch at one - 

She was about to cut him when he said - " I will tell you all that I know about Mystique Manor? My sister will also be here - you can meet her as well."

"Your sister - I didn't know you had a sister" she asked

"Well. Can't escape that one - my younger sister - she can be a little tenacious." his eyes were lost in trance and had a smile plastered on his face as if he was enjoying his own little secret.

"Oh. Wow! You know tomorrow the team is going to Natchez to cover. I don't think they will have time to come."

"Look here is the deal. How about you come here - maybe with one of your friends if possible. You can record the story on tape for details. I won't mind. Have lunch and zip off to check your schedule"

"Sounds good. Practical. Are you sure - your sister won't mind?" she asked thoughtfully

"Why don't you find out how she feels? Come around for lunch tomorrow. I'm sure you can fit that somewhere in your busy schedule"

"I will. Thank you. Good night"  she smiled

"See you Kayla"

He kept his gaze on her till he saw her retreating body getting into their car and vanishing into the thin air. He could still hear the sound of the car's engine and waited outside till it got faint, but knowing that wasn't going to happen - thanks to his super hearing ability. He just thought of strolling against his garden lengths enjoying the darkness. He slowly lifted his head above and saw the beautiful night sky. It was dark and the sky was filled with stars and the moon shone brightly over him. It was easy for him to navigate his way back to the main house even in the dark. His foot steps were light barely grazing the ground. He was musical - he was slowly humming in a low tone.