According to Legend

by Gerri Brousseau

  The catcher was going crazy. “I don’t think that’s necessary. I’ve provided all the paperwork to the police already. The system is monitored. Why would you need to inspect it?”

  “Standard police procedure with monitored systems,” he answered.

  I was trapped. “Well, I’m really not prepared for this, but if you insist.”

  “Oh, I insist,” he said, resting his hand on his holstered gun. I felt more threatened now than I had with Divakar in my dream. I knew now that David would never hurt me, but I knew Williamson wouldn’t think twice about killing me and taking the stone.

  I got out of the car and walked up to the front door. “I have to disarm the system, so if you two wouldn’t mind stepping back to allow me to enter my security code,” I said as I unlocked the door. They did as I requested. My palms were sweating and my hands shook so much I had trouble punching in the code. The alarm toned that it was off as we entered the house. Williamson appeared to be inspecting the system when I whispered to David, “What is this all about?”

  “I’m not sure. He showed up this morning at the kennel and said ‘we’ had to come over here. I think he’s getting impatient.”

  Williamson approached us. “What are you two whispering about?”

  “Oh, David was just telling me how much he missed me and— ”

  Williamson chuckled. “You buy all that lovie dovie crap from this player?”

  “Why wouldn’t I? David and I are in love.” The words spilled out of my mouth before I realized it.

  Williamson raised his eyebrows. “Well, looks like lover boy is finally getting into your pants after all, not that any of that matters. I think that you will be coming with us for a little ride now, Miss Hastings,” he said as he motioned for me to move toward the door.

  His eyes were emotionless and cold. I knew he wouldn’t think twice about killing me. I was shaking and I hoped he wouldn’t notice. With trembling fingers, I set the alarm and we headed out the door.

  “Where are you taking me?” I asked as he ushered me down the front walk.

  “I’m not taking you anywhere. I’ve had enough of this waiting crap. You’ll be taking us to the cave. Now!”

  “The cave? How did a police officer ever become involved in this?”

  I’d known he was involved since I had overheard him talking with David in the park that afternoon, but for him to act now so blatantly just went to show how dangerous this man was. I could no longer control the trembling, and he chuckled as he shoved me ahead of him.

  “I believe, Officer Williamson, I have already told Mr. Harvey that I don’t know the location of the cave.”

  I turned to face the cop. David stood beside him, the anguish on his face and the turmoil in his eyes spoke volumes. He was caught up in this just as I was.

  “I’m sure you know we don’t believe that,” he said as he patted the gun still resting in its holster.

  “Now, Miss Hastings, if you wouldn’t mind we’ll be taking your car.”

  I saw no way out. But just then the realtor arrived and parked his car in front of the house. He got out and looked from me to David and to the police officer. “Pam, is everything all right here?”

  “Yes, everything is fine. I had a monitored security system installed and Officer Williamson has just finished his mandatory police inspection. As you can see, he was just leaving,” I answered. “Thanks so much, Officer. I appreciate your diligence.”

  “Err, yes, thank you, Ms. Hastings. Everything appears to be in order,” he said.

  At that moment, they had no choice but to leave. When David’s car drove off, I breathed a sigh of relief.

  But I knew the days were numbered before my enemies would close in and enter my circle. I had to be ready because I knew, ready or not, they were coming.

  The realtor, Mr. Wayne, was very nice. We did a walk-through of the house. I pointed out some of my home’s best features, the storage space and large yard. He said he had a client who was looking for something exactly like this. He asked if he could show the house the next day.

  “If you don’t mind, maybe I should show the house without you here, or . . .” His words trailed off as he glanced at Half-Breed.

  “His name is Half-Breed and he is part wolf,” I said, trying to make light of it. “Half-Breed seems to like you, Matt, but maybe your client wouldn’t feel comfortable so I will take him out.”

  He let out a sigh and I knew he was relieved. As I saw Matt to the door, I crossed my fingers, hoping that the house would sell quickly.

  Within less than an hour, Matt phoned to say that he would show the house the next day at two o’clock.

  “Oh, Half-Breed, luck is with us.”

  If you can sell your lodge, then you can stay with Moheeladeck.

  “Yes, I would like nothing more.” In my heart, I knew that was where I had to be and more than that, where I wanted to be. Yet, I had to admit to myself that part of me still had feelings for David. I knew I couldn’t hide my thoughts from the wolf, and shame burned my cheeks.

  “Tonight when we see Moheeladeck, we’ll tell him this good news,” I said, hoping that Half-Breed wouldn’t press me about my thoughts of David.

  Tonight when you see Moheeladeck, you must tell him how that dirty cop and low-life dog you seem so taken with lately nearly abducted you at gun point. The circle is closing in, Princess, and he needs to know what’s going on!

  You mean to tell me that you have not already told all this to him? I knew Half-Breed hated David and he didn’t want him near me. I thought for sure he would have already enlightened Moheeladeck to the new emotions that were going on inside me, but much to my surprise, he replied, No. I think this is something he should hear directly from you.

  For once I appreciated their whole concept of not telling a tale they felt was not theirs to tell.

  How could I explain what was happening inside of me to Moheeladeck, when I didn’t understand it myself?

  You’re probably right, Half-Breed. You know, I’m really beginning to like having you around. When we go back to the People for good, I’m going to miss our conversations.

  Then, we will have human-to-human conversations, Daughter.

  Maybe, but for now I know what will make you happy. I think we should celebrate by making something special for dinner. I just happen to have a package of hot dogs in the fridge.

  David pulled up in front of his house. He felt like a caged animal. He wanted to, no, he needed to expend the pent-up energy that was driving him crazy. The scene of him and Pam in her bedroom played through his mind. Her in his arms and the stones in his grasp. What had he done? He had everything he ever wanted literally in his hands and he backed away and let it all go. He knew what was expected of him, what they wanted him to do, but what about what he wanted? He ran a hand through his shaggy hair and closing his eyes he rested his head on the steering wheel of his truck.

  I’m going for a long walk, no, maybe a run. I really have to deal with all this. He was getting out of the truck when the police cruiser pulled up and Williamson got out. David hadn’t expected him, but he knew the cop was impatient.

  “Hey, Lover-Boy, no date with the Ice Princess tonight?” Williamson asked as he swaggered toward David.

  “Shut up, Williamson.”

  “Hit a sore spot? Well, isn’t that too bad? Who was that guy that showed up at her house today? I thought you said she would be alone. Any idea what’s she’s up to?”

  “No.”

  “Hey, maybe that’s her new boyfriend,” Williamson taunted.

  “I don’t know. Look, Williamson, I can’t talk right now. This isn’t a good time.”

  “What’s the matter, Ice Princess screwing her new boyfriend tonight?”

  “Shut up, Williamson, I’m warning you.” David’s hands balled into fists at his side.

  “Ohhhh, I’m scared. Look at you. She has you all screwed up, man. She must be one great lay. I warned you not to get too attached to the bitch and
look at you, you’re panting after her like she’s a dog in heat. Maybe I should take a ride over there and pay a visit to little Miss Ice Princess. Maybe I’ll see for myself what a tight little piece she is.”

  “Don’t talk about her like she’s one of those tramps you date, Williamson,” he said through gritted teeth.

  “F U,” the cop said as he inched closer to David.

  David’s blood was boiling and his control slipping away as anger burned in his gut. His head was pounding and his heart raced as he grasped onto what little control he had left.

  Williamson took a step closer so they stood nose-to-nose.

  “Williamson, you better back off. I have a lot on my mind right now and I’m not going to deal with you. I’m warning you, you’re on dangerous ground now so back off before I lose it.” David took a step back.

  “Don’t tell me you’ve fallen in love with that little slut?”

  “Williamson, I’m warning you.” David’s breathing was quick and raspy.

  The cop shoved David’s shoulder. “What’s the matter, lover boy?” He shoved him again. “Can’t take a little competition?” He shoved again.

  David closed his eyes and clenched his fists tighter. Williamson smiled and shoved him again, taunting him further. “I bet she’ll like my dick a lot more than she likes yours. Tell me, is she a screamer or moaner? I take her for a moaner. I could tell by the way she wiggles that tight little ass of hers that she’s hot in bed.”

  “Williamson, I’m warning you one last time.” David was shaking.

  An evil smile spread across Williamson’s lips. “You know I fantasize about giving it to her from behind, hard and fast.”

  “Why you vile son of a—” Before he could stop himself, David punched Williamson in the jaw. Williamson fell backward and landed on his ass.

  In that split second, David realized he had just assaulted a police officer. Even though he’d been provoked and Williamson deserved much more than a punch in the jaw, David was pretty sure Williamson had the right to arrest him and press charges.

  “Look, man, I’m sorry,” David said as he extended his hand to help the officer up.

  “I’m not going to haul your sorry ass off to jail tonight but you mark my words, you’ll pay for this.”

  That night when I got ready for bed I thought about how violently ill I’d been in the morning and how it had passed. I hadn’t given any thought to it since, but realized I had better get my calendar out and start counting the days. I sat on the edge of the bed and dug through my purse for my calendar when I found another little GPS chip.

  “I can’t believe this! Look what I’ve just found,” I said to Half-Breed.

  I knew we couldn’t trust either of those dirty dogs.

  “I guess you’re right. Let’s see how they like this,” I replied as I walked into the bathroom and flushed it down the toilet.

  I swear I could hear the wolf snickering.

  I dug the calendar out and started counting. Sure enough, I was late! Oh man, this can’t be good! Tomorrow I’m getting one of those home pregnancy tests. It can’t possibly be positive.

  Again, Half-Breed snickered.

  “You’re really enjoying this, aren’t you? Do you like the idea of being a grandfather?”

  More than you know.

  Was the wolf grinning?

  I set the calendar on the night table and climbed into bed. “We have a lot to talk to Moheeladeck about tonight.”

  Yes, but I think he will be most anxious to hear of your condition than of anything else. You remember doing that ceremony with him in the cave asking the Great Spirit for a child? He will be grateful that the Great Spirit has granted his request.

  This cannot be happening. I turned off the light and snuggled down under the covers. Placing my hand over the dream catcher, and over my heart, I drifted off to sleep.

  Moheeladeck was waiting for me at the central fire pit. As I appeared out of the shadows, he rushed to my side. “How are you feeling?” he asked, his eyes dark with concern.

  “I’m fine,” I said, trying to brush it off with little regard. “Wait till I tell you what happened today.” I said, anxious to tell him about the house.

  “I want to hear all about you day, but I’m more interested in the state of your health. I must take better care of you,” he said.

  “Really, I’m fine. It’s nothing.”

  “You refer to our child as nothing?” He looked hurt.

  “No one said for certain we are having a child.”

  “Weekatay is certain.”

  “Well, I’m not.” I knew he wanted a child and I did, too, eventually. But right now, the mere thought of having a baby scared me to death.

  He handed me a small pouch. “Weekatay wants you to drink some of this each night before you sleep. It will prevent the sickness.”

  I took it and said, “Well, we shall just have to wait and see. In the meantime, let me tell you that I put the house, er, lodge on the market today and the realtor said that he has a client who might be interested in buying it.”

  “That is good news. How long before you can remain here?”

  It wasn’t until then that I had really thought about it. I just got a check for half a million dollars and no longer needed to work. I could actually pay everything off and stay here now, and yet I couldn’t even consider the possibility of never seeing David again.

  “I think it should be soon,” I said.

  “That is the best news I have heard this day.” Then placing his hand gently on my belly, he said, “Well, maybe the second best.” He smiled.

  I knew he was excited about the possibility of a baby, but I really didn’t want to get his hopes up before I knew for sure, and before I could straighten out my emotions.

  “I have more news, but I fear it’s not good,” I began.

  “What has happened?” he asked as he led me to sit on a log before the fire.

  I quickly filled him in on the day’s events.

  His face was grave with concern.

  “Why did you not summon me?”

  “It was over before it even started, but I have to tell you they were planning to force me to take them to the cave.”

  “I do not like this. I don’t want you to return to that time again,” he said in that tone of finality that indicated a decision had been made.

  “I don’t want to go either, but for now it’s necessary. Once the house is sold, I can remain here,” I answered. “In the meantime, what choice do we have? It’s not like you can drop everything here and come and stay with me in my time.” I regretted saying the words even as they slipped out of my mouth. My thoughts raced to David. How could I ever sort out my feelings for him if Moheeladeck were there with me in my realm?

  “Why not? Do you not want me there? It’s because of him, isn’t it?”

  “No, no, not at all. It’s just, well, I never thought it would be possible for you to leave the People and come live with me. Can you do that?” I asked, hoping that I didn’t sound like I really didn’t want him there.

  “Yes, for a short time. The preparation for winter is completed. There will be one more hunt, but that will not be until after the first snow. Surely, we will have returned by then.”

  I smiled at him. Even though I was confused, part of me was excited by the thought of having Moheeladeck come back with me. “There is only going to be one problem,” I said with a playful smile.

  “Only one? And what would that be?” he asked, also in a playful tone.

  “We’re going to have to buy you some clothes.”

  That night Moheeladeck made love to me gently and tenderly as if I were as delicate as a china doll. At first I wasn’t sure how I felt about that, but I realized how special it made me feel. It really showed the depth of his love for me. I smiled as I rested in his arms and my thoughts wandered unwillingly to David. I couldn’t help but wonder if he would be reacting the same way if this baby were his.

  “Tomorrow we
will tell the People that I will accompany you to your time and remain there with you for a short time,” he said softly against my ear.

  “I’m happy that you will be with me, but I worry about the People.” I was really genuinely concerned, but also couldn’t help but wonder if I was stalling, if it was that I really didn’t want Moheeladeck in my time.

  “There is nothing to worry about. The other tribes have migrated to their winter camps or are busy making the final preparations for winter in their camps here. There should be no danger, but if danger were to come I would be made aware of it and could return at once to face it. I fear Divakar will be more of a threat to you in your world than in this one.”

  More than you know, I thought.

  We fell asleep talking of being together for the next few days in my time. The next morning when I woke up, I wasn’t sick at all. Whatever was in Weekatay’s potion worked like a charm. Then again, maybe I wasn’t even pregnant.

  We met with the People and Moheeladeck explained everything. He asked a few of his most trusted braves to be on guard for any trouble and to keep him informed. I didn’t question how that would ever come about.

  After some preparation, it was time to leave. I took the catcher in my right hand and placed my left hand over Moheeladeck’s heart. “Take us to my time,” I whispered and we were instantly transported back.

  The catcher never ceased to amaze me. We arrived exactly in the same location I was in when I left, on my side of the bed. Half-Breed groaned when he realized there was even less space now for his large body.

  “You will have to sleep on the floor, Half-Breed,” I said. “Moheeladeck is going to remain here with us for a few days.”

  Har-Humph, he managed to grumble as he slithered to the floor.

  “Today I am going to do two things, resign from my job and then go to the mall and get you some clothes. You can’t very well walk around town in nothing but a loin cloth,” I said to Moheeladeck.

  “You have never complained before. Besides, I had hoped that I could interest you in one of your hot showers,” he murmured in my ear.