Visions: The Mystical Encounter Series (The Mystical Encounter Series Book 1)

by Kimberly Readnour

  Fumbling around trying to pick it up, I could hear Barry shouting, “Heather…‌Heather…‌What was that? Are you okay?”

  As I peered out the window, everyone was running toward the van. “Gunshot,” I finally managed to squeak out. It was terrifying watching everyone cluster together and not know if Ryan was injured. I wanted to get out of the car and go over there, but I would just be in the way. But sitting here was torture as I listened to the officers yell. I shifted to get a better angle, but still couldn’t see anything. Then I heard something, and I swear it was the faint sound of my name. Finally it occurred to me that Barry was still on the line. My hand must have drifted down while I was trying to find out what was happening.

  Quickly putting the phone back up to my ear, I uttered, “Barry, I’m sorry. I don’t know what’s going on. There was a shot fired, but I’m not sure who fired it. I can’t hear exactly what’s happening, and I don’t know about Ryan.”

  “Okay…‌Do you want me to stay on line with you?”

  “No…‌I’ll let you go, but I’ll call as soon as I can.”

  “Heather…‌Be safe.”

  “Thanks, Barry”

  After hanging up the phone, the confines of the car seemed to be closing in on me. I struggled to sit there as it became more restrictive. Unable to take it any longer, I swung the door open and jumped out. With the crisp evening air, I began to breathe better, but I stayed beside the car.

  The wailing of ambulance sirens pierced the night air, making it impossible to hear anything they were shouting. All I could think about was Ryan. He’s seven; he shouldn’t be going through this. When the ambulance drove closer toward the scene, I stood on the tips of my toes and stretched, straining to see. They pulled out a stretcher and a few minutes later, I breathed a sigh of relief when I saw a male figure lying on it. It wasn’t too long after, the detective came walking around the corner with Ryan beside him. He may be emotionally scarred, but otherwise he appeared unharmed.

  As I blew out my breath, relief swarmed through me. It was exhilarating to see him safe. I can’t see into the future, so I didn’t know how it would end. Having it end positively was a great feeling and knowing I was part of the reason was even greater.

  As the detective brought Ryan to the car, he introduced me to him, explaining that I was the main reason for finding him. My heart melted as he peered up at me with those big brown eyes, swollen from crying. He smiled partially, but didn’t utter a sound. All I wanted to do was reach out and give him a hug, but I didn’t dare. Touching him would certainly lead to having a vision, especially with all the turmoil he went through. To keep from frightening him more, I maintained a safe distance.

  “Okay, Ryan,” Detective Tanner said as he placed him in the back of the car. “Let’s get you home to your parents.”

  A timid smile spread across his face as he nodded, but his eyes held an underlying terror to them. Curling up in a ball, he wrapped his arms around his legs. Witnessing him sitting there took all the strength I had not to console him in some way. It was heartbreaking seeing him still pain stricken. His face streaked from all the crying and the red marks surrounding his mouth from the remnants of the tape made me sick to my stomach. I wanted so badly to offer some sort of comfort, but didn’t know how to go about it.

  I realized the more I let people in, the more complicated life became. I wondered, as the detective drove toward Ryan’s house, if my life would ever go back to the quiet seclusion of before. I didn’t think that was possible.

  ~17~

  Reunited

  If I thought I felt elated at the sight of seeing Ryan alive, it was nothing compared to the sight of him reuniting with his parents. As we pulled up to the Boyers’ driveway, his mother came running out of the house with her arms spread apart. Ryan’s face lit up the moment he caught sight of his mother. Watching his face transform into a huge grin with saucer–sized eyes was priceless. It was something I would never forget.

  As soon as we stopped the car and Detective Tanner let him out, he sprang from the back seat, running straight into his mother’s arms. Mrs. Boyer was crying, but these were tears of happiness instead of the agony from earlier. Her face was beautiful; it glowed with relief and pure bliss. Mr. Boyer had come outside embracing his son as well, but he still wore that stern expression.

  As I stood back taking in the scene, I wondered if that man ever softened.

  The detective said a few words to them before we headed to the car. Mrs. Boyer, refusing to let her son out of her grip, thanked me again while her husband stood there stoically. He still refused to acknowledge my presence. Guessing his attitude toward me hadn’t changed any, I just shook my head as I turned and slipped inside. I could care less what he thought of me. My vision brought that little boy home safely to his mother, and that I would cherish the rest of my life.

  In the safety of Detective Tanner’s car, exhaustion overcame me. I couldn’t wait to get back home and finally sleep. Although I knew Barry and Nicole would be there filled with questions, I still couldn’t wait to get there.

  “You did well today,” Detective Tanner said as he backed the car up. “That little boy is alive today because of you. I really think the force could use someone with your capabilities, and I’m going to recommend they hire you for cases that could use your help. Would you be interested?”

  “Um…” Taking me by surprise, I wasn’t sure how to answer. After a few seconds, I finally responded, “I’m not sure. I guess just let me know what they say, and I’ll definitely think it over.”

  “Please do…‌I have to admit, at first I didn’t believe in your abilities. When you came into my office that day, I thought there’s no way anyone’s capable of that. But you definitely have a talent. Nobody should ever doubt your abilities after this. Johnny’s case has plagued me for over a decade, and part of me desperately wanted to believe you. My rational side kept me from fully believing, though. I’m just glad I checked out your background and had enough hope to proceed.” Staring straight at me, he seemed to soften a little as he said, “Thanks again for helping me today.”

  The sincerity in his voice was very touching. Finally managing to tell him thanks, I closed my eyes for a second. I had every intention to call Barry, but the next thing I knew we were pulling into my driveway.

  I was a little dazed and confused before realizing I had dozed off. Blinking my eyes, I scanned my surroundings noticing a few squad cars still remained. In the distance was a faint light hovering above the trees in the woods. All of my euphoria seemed to vanish as the realization of Johnny’s death came crushing back down upon me. One boy’s life was spared, but how many before him weren’t?

  It didn’t take any time for Barry, Nicole, and my mother to come outside and greet us. My mother immediately wrapped her arms around me, and I could see the same relief in her own face as Mrs. Boyer’s. I guess mothers would always worry, no matter what happened or how old their child was.

  Detective Tanner told everyone about Mr. Barton being shot, that he was wounded, but expected to recover. He’d more than likely be charged with Johnny’s death, but they needed to collect some evidence first.

  After he mentioned needing proof, the room Johnny was held in popped in my head. “Detective, he held Johnny in a tiny room inside the basement for a while before he killed him. We didn’t have a chance to go down there, but I know that’s where he was held and eventually killed. I saw that in the vision.” Mom gasped as she squeezed me tighter. I had so much explaining to do.

  “Thanks, Heather. We’ll search the entire house. Don’t worry, we’ll find something to convict him.”

  With that he left, walking toward the woods.

  Completely exhausted, I let out a sigh. I knew everyone wanted answers, but I just wanted to go to bed. Barely able to stand, I stumbled my way up to my porch, plopping down on the top step.

  Nicole decided to go home, knowing how exhausted I was. Before leaving, she came over to give me a hug and t
hank me. She mentioned that she’d never be able to repay me for everything I’d done.

  Deeply touched by her sentiment, I hugged her back, and told her being my friend was payment enough. As she left, she hollered back to me, “Get some rest.” Barry had also waltzed over. He leaned in to hug me good–bye, whispering in my ear that we’d talk tomorrow.

  Once inside, I let out a deep breath before saying good–night to my mom. I went straight to my bedroom and flopped on top of my bed. Not caring about changing my clothes, I snuggled with my blanket, a little too excited about the prospect of sleep.

  I was one hundred percent sure I would have a solid night’s rest since everything was resolved now. What more could Johnny possibly want with me? Closing my eyes, I drifted quickly off to sleep.

  So much for my assumption, I thought, as Johnny stood before me.

  This time, the dream was completely different. He stood in front of me with a white glow surrounding him, peering at me with his icy blues. As our eyes connected, he smiled really wide. “Thanks” echoed through the air before he evaporated into the light.

  Immediately waking up, I scanned my room. There wasn’t anything there except total darkness. But I wasn’t anxious. Instead, there was a peacefulness that pulsated through me. It was as if his soul had finally been released, and he wanted to thank me before going up to the heavens, or wherever you go after you die. One thing, for sure, that experience taught me there was definitely an afterlife.

  Lying back down, I closed my eyes with a feeling of serenity, drifting off into the best night’s rest I’ve had since moving here.

  ~~~~~

  Grateful that today was Saturday, I woke up around noon. As I sat up in bed, I took in my surroundings. My room hadn’t changed since Mom repainted, but for some reason, it seemed brighter that morning. It was as if a huge weight had been lifted, and I grinned at the thought of finally having my room to myself.

  Though I was content to stay in bed the rest of the day, I reluctantly got up.

  I found Mom in the kitchen fixing her lunch as I poured myself some milk for my breakfast. I knew she must be dying to ask me tons of questions, so I sat down beside her.

  Strangely, she remained quiet until I finally spoke.

  “What all happened while I was gone?” I asked out of curiosity.

  “Well, I came home and didn’t know what to think when I saw all the cop cars. Of course, my first thought was something must have happened to you.” She shuddered at the thought, but continued, “Barry and Nicole were waiting on his grandmother’s front porch and immediately came over to explain what was going on. Although knowing what happened helped, it was still hard for me to calm down, knowing you were out there with some crazy lunatic.”

  Watching me, she softened her tone before asking, “You’ve been having nightmares about the boy? Johnny?”

  With a sigh, I answered, “Yes.” Then I proceeded to tell her about my dreams. I could tell by her facial expressions she was uncomfortable hearing that, which was why I hid it from her in the first place. I had to give her credit, though, because she actually sat there and listened. I guessed maybe we were making progress after all.

  My former therapist would be proud.

  When I was through, she simply said, “Ah, baby, I’m sorry this happened to you. I had no idea it was that bad. God, I feel awful since I’m the reason we moved here in the first place.”

  “No…‌Mom, this was the best decision you’ve ever made,” I interrupted, surprising myself with the declaration. “I mean, look at what we’ve accomplished. We solved a ten–year–old homicide, reconnected a missing child with his parents, possibly saving his life, and I’ve made actual friends. Real friends. I would have still been isolated back there.”

  Tears welled up in her eyes, but these were tears of pride. She reached over to give me a hug and simply said, “I love you.”

  “I love you too, Mom.”

  It felt strange saying those words to her because I hardly ever said them. I knew my mom loved me, but she didn’t express it much. Part of it was my fault, because I didn’t let people get close to me, but I’d never felt unloved. Maybe misunderstood, but never unloved.

  I had to admit, it felt good hearing it.

  “Oh, before I forget…‌Detective Tanner called me earlier and wanted me tell you there was a reward for information leading to Johnny’s whereabouts. He said the reward was for fifteen thousand dollars and Johnny’s family wants you to have it.”

  Stunned, I gaped at her in disbelief. After a couple of seconds to recoup, I repeated, “Fifteen thousand dollars?”

  She nodded saying, “That’s what he said.”

  “Wow.” I didn’t know what else to say. “Mom, I don’t feel right taking that money. I shouldn’t be rewarded that much. I didn’t do anything.”

  “Don’t sell yourself short. If you feel that uncomfortable about it, I trust you’ll be able to think of something to do with the money. Think it over, honey.”

  “Mom, Detective Tanner has asked me to do some consultant work if the need arises. How do you feel about that?” I asked, anxious to hear her opinion.

  While I sat there quietly for a second, I wondered if she was going to answer. Finally she spoke, “Well I’m not sure I like you being a modern–day Nancy Drew, but I suppose it would depend on the case.”

  “Who?” I asked.

  “Nancy…‌Oh, never mind,” she grunted. With a slight shake of her head, she came over and kissed me on top of my head before heading out toward the backdoor. Still shocked from the news about the money, I rose up a little dazed and went to get ready for the day.

  ~18~

  Let Down

  As I took my shower, I stood there longer than usual, soaking up the warm water as it beat into my back. The tension I’d been carrying for the past month soothed away as the water dripped off. I imagined all the negativity and worry being washed away, swirling into the dark abyss of the drain. When I exited the shower, I was completely refreshed from the inside out.

  Drying off, the reward money laid heavily in the back of my mind. As tempting as it was to keep it all to myself, I wondered if I should share it with Barry, and Nicole. It was, after all, a team effort.

  Part of me wanted to keep the money intact in order to do something useful with it, like some type of memorial in Johnny’s honor. There had to be some good use for it, something that everyone could benefit from. Surely they wouldn’t be opposed to that. No, I think they would love that idea. I just needed to come up with something that would be spectacular.

  After wrapping the surrounding towel, I wiped the steam off the mirror and stood there. With my reflection beaming back at me, I studied myself. My appearance was never a concern for me. I’d always fixed my hair to be presentable, but it never went beyond that. Now, as I stared, I couldn’t help but wonder what people saw as they looked at me. What does Barry see? I’d never cared before until now.

  Truthfully, I’d never cared since I thought I’d always be alone. Not once did I ever picture myself with friends, let alone the possibility of a boyfriend. At my other school, nobody would give me a second glance, even before the big freak show. Afterwards, I was taboo. Although I hated it, I grew to accept the fact that my life would be one of solitude. The desire to be pretty? Not ever a concern.

  Funny, how things changed. As I viewed my reflection, I noticed my hair needed trimmed and styled. I should also let Mom show me how to apply make–up, which would thrill her. I’d never worn it before, and I briefly wondered if Barry liked girls who wore make–up. What a silly question. Of course he would. Most girls did wear it. I just wasn’t sure how I would look with it.

  The faint ringtone of my phone chimed through the air as I started to comb my hair. I tossed the brush down before rushing into my bedroom. Quickly snatching it up, I couldn’t help but smile at Barry’s name displayed across the screen. What the heck is wrong with me? There wasn’t any reason to feel that giddy. But for some rea
son, the simple knowledge that Barry cared about me, stirred my insides.

  “Hey, are you finally up?” Barry asked.

  “Yes…‌I was just getting dressed. What’s going on?”

  “Just waiting for you,” he answered jokingly, but something was off with his voice. There seemed to be an underlying tone of sadness to it. “Can I come over and pick you up now?”

  “Um…‌sure,” I stammered out. Catching another glimpse of myself in my dresser mirror, I panicked slightly, realizing I looked like a drowned rat. Not the impression I wanted to go with. “Um…‌Give me about ten minutes. I just got out of the shower.”

  “Okay.” He chuckled.

  After hanging up the phone, I rushed around as quickly as I could and got dressed. Racing back into the bathroom, I hastily brushed my hair before placing it into a ponytail. There wasn’t any time to be nervous, but for some reason my heart was racing. The anticipation of seeing him made me excited, and I couldn’t wait to talk to him. There was much to tell. First, I wanted to fill him in about last night, and second, I couldn’t wait to explain my dream.

  As I finished, I glanced one more time in the mirror. I was far from presenting my best, but there wasn’t any time to care. I’d just have to work on improving my appearance a different day.

  I hurried into the kitchen to inform Mom about leaving with Barry. Right as the words left my mouth, the doorbell rang, sending a jolt of excitement through my body.

  I tried not to run to the door like an adolescent child. Instead, I walked as fast as my legs would carry me. Once I opened the door, the sight of Barry brought a smile to my face. He had his back toward me, but he was still handsome as ever just standing there.

  “Hey,” I said as he turned to stare at me.