Rumors and Ghosts

v. a bitter discovery

Anya had found a book on Russian history. She frantically searched through it and found a name.

"Marie Feodorovna," she said with a slow nod. "That sounds correct." She walked up to the clerk and pointed to Marie's picture. "I need you to tell me about this woman."

The man looked at the picture she was pointing at and shook his head. "You're two years too late."

"I'm sorry?"

"She died two years ago. It was reasonably big news."

"Oh. Thank you."

Anya put the book away and left the library.

Bucky ran up and said, "There you are." He noticed her expression. "Anya? What's wrong?"

She met his eyes, blinking tears away. "I remembered a woman's name. Marie. She was... I believe her to be the one to live in Paris."

"So what's the problem?"

"She died two years ago. I don't think I've a reason to get to Paris now."

"You can still visit Paris, Anya."

"But without something, someone to go to..."

He placed his hands on her shoulders, then moved them to her cheeks. "Anya, look at me. I can go to Paris with you. We can see it together. I've heard it's an incredibly romantic city, and to see it with you would be an adventure I'd like to have."

"We barely know each other."

"Then consider it a chance to get to know each other."

She nodded slowly and smiled. "I'd like that very much, James."

He returned her smile and offered his arm. "Have you eaten yet?"

"No, I'm afraid not."

"Shall we?"

Anya nodded and took his arm.

The two made their way to a diner to get something to eat. Bucky insisted on paying and wouldn't hear a word of protest from her, which both annoyed her and made her feel grateful.