THIRTEEN FOR DINNER

Thirty seven

THIRTY-SEVEN

       It’s nearly eight o’clock and most of tonight’s guest have arrived and are downstairs in the sitting room drinking brandy and eating hors d'oeuvres.

            I’m in Emily’s room, she is helping me with my hair and I feel like Cinderella getting ready for the ball, all the while knowing I have a midnight curfew. According to Quillan, Mike and I must be in the passageway when the clock strikes twelve tonight, otherwise we will not transport back to the future. At the same time, he will simply fade out of view. Closing my eyes, I push the image from my mind. My stomach churns and I nervously shift in my chair.

            “I’m sorry am I pulling too hard?” Emily asks me.

            “Oh no, not at all,” I assure her, “You’re making me look beautiful.” Which she is, she has a knack for hairstyling.

              She chats on excitedly, telling me about the plans Lunar has drawn up for the slave quarters and the ones for their home too. “You know,” she says, as she weaves the ribbons into my hair. “A month ago, I’d never dreamed I would be planning out a house with Lunar, let alone having my daddy’s blessing along with it.” She smiles at me in the mirror, the way she does when she accuses me of being clairvoyant. “Everything got better when you showed up Miss Averie.  I’d say your one of the best things that’s ever happened to me, not to mention the closest friend I have ever had.”

            I smile back; I feel the same way about Miss Emily. One thing’s for sure, Quillan is going to have an amazing mother. I sigh, wishing I could tell her I’ll be leaving tonight. I’d hate for her to think I just left without saying goodbye.

            The old grandfather clock strikes eight letting us know dinner is being served and we should be making our way downstairs. Emily applies the finishing touches to my hair and then disappears inside her dressing room to change into her ball gown. I take a final glance in the mirror before heading downstairs to find Quillan. I’m wearing a new dress he had delivered to the house while we were away at our picnic. It’s breathtaking, the prettiest I’ve worn all month and I have sported some pretty awesome ensembles. It’s deep blue, trimmed in black and the skirt is studded with tiny pearls, again representing a starry night. My pendant goes perfectly, lying sweetly between my breast. Sighing I rub my fingers over the locket and lift it to my mouth but the cold porcelain does not compare to the warmth of his lips. I’m wondering if my heart ever be able to love another? I pull out the envelope I have tucked away in my dress pocket and read over the letter I’ve written him, one more time.

My Dearest Quillan,

            One hundred and fifty years from today, you led me by the hand and took me on the adventure of a lifetime.  We came to save many lives and in that quest I believe we also saved mine. You were the conductor who led me to the safe house where I was set free from my fears. And although I don’t know quite how I can survive without you, I do know I will live every day in peace knowing you walked this earth and lived. Enjoy every day Quillan Wilson, for your life is truly a precious gift.

            I shall never forget you and your lovely family, you are most blessed. I will meet you in your dreams,

            Much Love,

            Averie Cooke

            Slipping the letter back in my pocket I make my way downstairs to find Quillan. According to Elizabeth the crème de la crème is here but to me they look just like anybody else.