by Kali Wilows
“He’s been trying to get your attention, but, he says you’re just as stubborn now as you always were.”
“That sounds like Mark.” Stacia’s nervous laugh fell into silence.
“What are you talking about?” Her throat grew thick, making speech difficult.
“The smell of roses, the tap on your shoulder, the whisper in your ear. He said he even moved your wallet tonight to get your attention. When you got spooked at the cemetery, that incident at the mausoleum? That was Mark, the cold air, the moving shadow, the electrical problems with your gadgets—all him.”
“I lost my wallet.” She side-stepped the rest of his inarguable points. The suggestion that he knew what happened to her at the mausoleum shot searing heat through her cheeks and her pulsing veins.
“Check your bag—it’s there now.” He nodded to the tote by her feet.
“This is ridiculous.”
“Vannah, check it.” Stacia nodded with encouragement.
Vannah huffed and picked up her bag, rifling through it then paused when her heart jumped up to her throat. She pulled out the missing wallet.
“I’m not faking this. He needed to tell you something.”
“What?” Half hopeful, she waited.
“He said, your date…tomorrow…he wants you to go through with it. Madame Evangeline knew what she was doing when she matched you. It’s time to let him go. He wants you to start living again.”
“Wow.” She shook her head. Sitting back, she stared up at the domed ceiling.
“What, honey?” Stacia squeezed her wrist.
“Wow, you guys are good.”
“What?”
“How long have you been planning this, Stacia? What did you do, hire an actor?” Vannah pulled her hand away, glaring at Cameron.
“I did no such thing.” Stacia reached again for her but she resisted, avoiding any contact.
“Sure, like you didn’t steal my wallet earlier and put it back just now? Like you didn’t tap me on the shoulder earlier? You didn’t put me up to this whole date business?”
“Vannah?”
“No, you crossed the line.”
“There’s something else.” Cameron stood and walked toward her.
“Okay, Cameron, if that’s even your real name, what else does Mark have to say?”
“He says you’ve been carrying a guilty secret since that night.”
A shockwave of mixed fear, rage, and anguish rushed over her all at once, setting every atom of her body ablaze.
“Shut up. Not another word.” She got up, clutching her bag to her chest.
“Okay, no more words, but I want you to do something for me.” He stepped closer to her, peering at her face.
“Oh you do, huh? What’s that?”
“I want you to take out your camera and other gadgets. I want you to record and take readings. When you go back to the Castillo Hotel, take time to review the data. Decide for yourself if this is real or not.”
“Vannah?” Stacia called to her.
Vannah gaped at her calm sister in disbelief.
“Do it. For your own peace of mind—I dare you.” Stacia knew how to push her buttons. A challenge to her skepticism was enough to boil her blood.
Vannah reached into her bag and whipped out her camera. She turned it on, expecting a dead battery, but the indicator noted a full charge. Pressing the record button, she scanned the room. Cameron nodded toward the open windows and Vannah aimed it there, too. A gust of arctic air rushed through her shaking body.
A tap on her shoulder sent her reeling around, but no one stood behind her. An inaudible muffle in her ear erupted again as she spun back, facing them, “Stacia, let’s go.” She spoke low and firm, trying to keep her voice even and hold back the cries of anguish that festered deep inside.
Stacia preceded her out of the room.
***
“Um, that went well.” Cameron heaved a sigh as the apparition brushed past him.
“I didn’t think she would be so difficult to convince with everything you shared.”
“Somehow Mark, I don’t imagine this is a big surprise to you? She strikes me as an obstinate, opinionated woman who sticks to her guns.”
“You’ve got that right. Spectacular, isn’t she?” Cameron could feel Mark’s lingering passion for her.
“To tell the truth, she’s a pain in the ass. Stubborn, unreasonable—” He paused.
“And?” The playful specter egged him on.
“Magnificent.”
The vivid image of her deep brown almond shaped eyes pierced through his vision.
“All right Mark, knock it off. I get the point.”
Cameron stood in the empty doorway, the spirit gone again.
“As if she were going to come back after that.”
***
“So, how long before you talk to me?” Stacia called through the hotel room door. “Please don’t leave a pregnant woman in distress. Open up.”
Vannah turned the lock and pulled the door open, staring at the floor.
“Did you sleep at all? You look like shit.” Stacia meandered into the room.
“Thanks a lot.” She dawdled over to the bed and plopped her disheveled self down.
“So, what’s the verdict, ghost hunter? Is he a fraud?” Stacia stood in front of her with a taunt in her tone.
“Stacia?”
“Yeah?”
“I’m only gonna ask you once, and I want the truth, no matter what.”
Kneeling in front of her, she took Vannah’s hands into hers. “What is it honey? You know I’ve never lied to you, I won’t start now, I promise.”
“Did you set this up? Cameron, I mean—did you tell him those things? Did you take my wallet and put it back?”
“Of course not. I would never hurt you like that. Did you review the images from last night?”
Vannah hung her head and exhaled. “Yes, I did.”
“And?”
“Readings like I’ve never seen since I got the stupid thing.”
“Then it was really Mark?”
“Maybe—I don’t know—unless you’re playing me, there’s no other explanation.”
“I’m not. Will you go back and talk to Cameron?”
“I don’t think so.”
“Why? You still don’t believe him?”
“I think I do. But after my behavior last night, I’m too embarrassed. I was awful to him.”
“I’m sure he understands how difficult this was for you.”
“Maybe before we leave. I don’t know.”
“Will you still go through with your date tonight? I’m sure Madame Evangeline would understand if you backed out, given the circumstances.”
“No. It’s time. Even if I don’t enjoy myself, it’s a first step, one I’ve avoided for too long.”
“That’s my girl.” Stacia stood up pulling Vannah with her, and hugged her tight.
“Well, maybe I should try and nap or something. I’m exhausted.” Vannah’s deflated anger came as a relief.
“Where are you meeting? Never mind. Have fun and call my room if you need me.”
Stacia headed for the door.
“Where are you going?”
“I’m kinda craving those fried green tomatoes they serve around here, and maybe some pickles, ice cream…. Who knows? I’m starving.” Stacia’s complexion glowed.
“How long has Charlie known about the baby?”
Stacia stopped holding the door handle with the most blissful look Vannah had ever seen on her face. “We took the test together right before I left to meet you.”
“I’m happy for you both Stacia, it’s been a difficult time for you.”
“It’s been a long wait for happiness for you, too, kiddo. Just remember something for me, okay?”
“What’s that?”
“Life is too short to waste on regrets. You’re being given a golden opportunity here to move on with your life. Use it well.”
“I’ll d
o my best, Stacia. Thank you.”
“I love ya, kiddo.”
“I love you too, but you’re still a pain in my ass.” One side of Vannah’s mouth retreated as she shot her a half reprimanding look.
***
Vannah paused in front of the oak-trimmed penthouse door and slowed her breathing. Her nerves were wreaking havoc on her stomach and her chest. Holding her breath, she knocked on the door of Room 1213.
The clicking sound of the turning lock caused a stir in her stomach. The door creaked open, and a woody scent of musk enveloped her senses. Vannah clutched the frame to stay upright when she saw who opened it.
“What the hell are you doing here?”
“Won’t you come in, madam?”
“Stop calling me madam.” She brushed past him.
Locking the door, he turned with a sheepish grin.
“Did you know it was me?” She dropped her bag on the royal blue and white Scalamandre silk chaise and sat down beside it.
“Not exactly—well, aside from the ghost telling me, it wasn’t hard to guess. I doubt there’s too many dates set up here in Savannah tonight by Eve.”
“I don’t think I can do this—not with you.” She shook her head and clasped her clammy hand over her face.
The hot little red dress with the spaghetti straps and low cleavage was a most definite regret now. So was the sexy, black, lacy lingerie underneath.
“Yeah, I get that response a lot, too.” He chuckled and settled on the cobalt chair across from her.
“You do?” She shot him a questioning glance.
“Yeah, it’s amazing how ghosts can mess with your love life or make it non-existent. Most often I can’t get through the first course in a restaurant without some spirit jumping in for a message or two.”
“So—this isn’t the first time this has happened to you?” Careful with her revealing hemline, Vannah crossed her feet at the ankles and kept her legs pressed together, folding her fingers and draping them over her clenched knees.
“Nope, that’s why I agreed to 1Night Stand.”
“What do you mean you agreed?”
“Well, big brother Samuel thought I needed a break from the failed dating scene.”
An awkward silence filled the room.
“What did you find on the video footage?” A one-sided smirk lit up his confident stare.
“What do you think I found?” Vannah leaned forward, challenging him. “You said I was carrying a guilty secret?”
“Uh—yeah, about that….” he stammered.
“What?”
“I guess there’s nothing to lose tonight anyway, so I’ll spill.”
“I’m waiting.” She tapped her stiletto heel.
“Are you sure you want to do this now?” Concern filled his voice.
“Yes.” She wasn’t sure, but a brave appearance was called for.
The familiar fragrance of roses blew in with a gentle breeze. Vannah glanced at the closed window and shuddered. The compelling flower scent lingered about her.
“Please, Cameron. Tell me.”
“Okay, here it goes. Mark says you’ve been ghost hunting to bury your grief. You felt if—”
“If what?” The stinging tears began to form, but she held her posture upright.
“If you couldn’t find proof that ghosts existed, then he couldn’t be angry with you—he wouldn’t blame you for the fire.”
“Why would I think he blamed me?”
“He says you; you had wine, dinner, and candlelight to surprise him the night he died.”
Ripples of anguish washed over her as he gave the accurate, never discussed before, play by play of that fatal night.
“He says you were upset because he was late getting home from work, and you went to bed.” Cameron watched her with remorseful eyes.
“Mark says you forgot to blow out the candles. You would have died. He saved you from the fire.” His horrified gaze fell to the faded, raised scaring on her thighs and upper right arm. “Oh my God, Vannah, it wasn’t your fault. He died saving you because he loved you. He doesn’t blame you.”
He rushed over to her as she slid from the silk chaise to her knees, sobbing with despair. He eased her up, took her into his arms, and held her tight as she wept.
“It was my fault. I killed him. I’m so sorry, oh God, I didn’t want to live after that night.” She clung to his neck.
“There’s something else.” His hushed words calmed her somewhat. “He wants one night with you.”
“What?” Her face deadened with shock. “What does that mean?”
“Oh, God, how do I say this without getting slapped?” He let go and stepped back, sitting on the king-sized bed.
“What does he mean? What does Mark want?”
“Don’t get mad, okay?”
“What?” She ran her trembling fingers across her face, clearing away the tears.
“In the mausoleum, he—” he shrugged as she flinched, “—that was him. I’ve never done this before, and the thought of it scares the crap out of me.”
“What?” Vannah kneeled in front of him. The smell of roses grew stronger.
“I can channel spirits. He wants to use my—body, for one more night with you.”
Vannah grew numb trying to take in what he suggested, in awe.
“Cameron?”
“I swear to God, I’m not scamming you.”
“I know you’re not. It’s confusing, though. You look nothing like him. I can’t even imagine….”
“I’ll make you a deal, okay?” His determined voice held her attention. “I’ve never channeled before because the thought of giving control away scares me, but Mark’s spirit, he’s aching for you. I’ll be the conduit and let him communicate through me, and you do whatever you need or want. At least then he’ll have had a chance to give you closure so he can go in peace.”
“I don’t understand.”
“Spirits that linger and haunt are often here because of unfinished business, unresolved issues. They don’t go to the white light and cross over. He’s been waiting for you, all this time. You’re his unfinished business Vannah. Your remorse, your guilt—he wants to ease your pain.”
“I don’t know what to say.”
She was torn. What was the one wish anyone would have when they lost a loved one? Just one more time, one more hug, one more I love you. Believing everything he said was a given. No one knew her feelings of guilt. The thought of speaking to Mark—being with him—through the body of another man was insane and dark, but tempting.
“Thank you.” She nodded.
“Just for the record, though—” He smiled.
“What?”
“If all this hadn’t happened, I would have been very…ecstatic to have had this one night with you myself. You’re gorgeous.”
“You’re not so bad yourself, Adonis.” She smirked.
“Huh?”
“Never mind.”
Cameron gave her a wink and lay back. After a few minutes, his body went limp. He appeared asleep then jolted upright with his eyes open. His face appeared different, somehow, his posture—he didn’t look like Cameron anymore.
“Savannah?” Tears trickled down his bronzed cheeks.
“Mark?” Vannah got up to her knees and moved toward him. His irises had changed; they had brown and green flecks now, no longer azure blue.
“Mark, is it you?” She threw her arms around his neck, squeezing tight.
“Savannah.” He sobbed and grabbed hold of her, not letting go.
“Say something only you would know about me, please. I need to be sure.”
“Baby doll, I miss cuddling with your feet, and you make a mean French toast, pretty lady.”
Hysterical laughter exploded from her lips as she wept and giggled at the same time. Vannah cupped his cheeks and took in his face—it was Mark’s and yet it wasn’t.
“I’m so sorry, Mark, I should have—”
“Hush now, baby.” He pressed a finge
r to her lips. “It wasn’t your fault. It’s just the way things were supposed to happen.”
“Oh God.” She pulled him close, clinging to his neck and kissed his cheeks.
“I don’t have long, but I need to tell you something.” He grasped her arms and held her back far enough to capture her gaze.
“What?”
“I needed you to know, the time we had together was the best part of my life. I couldn’t have asked for more. I was happy, and I love you so much.”
Vannah’s throat constricted and the muscles in her lips spasmed as she tried to hold back the building sobs.
“Enough tears sweetheart.” He ran his thumbs across her cheeks, brushing away the wetness. “You’ve shed too many over me, for far too long. It’s time to move on.”
“Move on?” She shook her head with disbelief. “You’re here now.”
“Savannah, you are a young, beautiful woman with such a bright light. I can’t bear to be the cause of it dimming so much. I need you to let me go. Let go of the guilt, the shame, and the regret.”
As if by magic, she regained control of her emotions and her body again. The tears stopped, and her throat relaxed as she breathed a little easier.
“I can’t explain how, but this night, this trip, this date, was all part of helping you heal. I wouldn’t have done anything different that night, or any other night with you. I have no regrets, but one.”
“What?” She watched him.
“My sole regret is not being able to get through to you sooner, to let you know.”
“What?” A residual whimper rippled through her lungs.
“Your search since I died. Your ghost hunting expeditions. You were searching for proof, connection. This man….” He gestured to Cameron’s body. “He’s the only one you were around who could hear or see me.”
“Those things that happened last night, the cold, the sound in my ear—”
“The smell of the old garden moss roses we planted in front of the house? Yes, that was all me trying to get your attention. It wasn’t easy. You ignored everything I did to make you sense me.”
“Well, there was a particular part I couldn’t ignore.” Vannah’s cheeks grew warm.
“I couldn’t resist.”
“I didn’t mind.” A wave of giddiness rippled through her chest.
