Stranded

by Patricia H. Rushford

  At the sound of men’s voices, Jennie jumped up and took several steps into the compound. Like a scene out of a Wild West movie, Eric and three men strode toward the entrance and her. Each wore hats and moleskin coats. All but Eric carried saddlebags over their shoulders. Their coats hung open, revealing holsters and guns that hung on their hips.

  “This is Jennie McGrady,” Eric said as they drew near. The largest of the men nodded and tipped his hat.

  “Stan.”

  “Daniel,” said the next.

  “Craig,” offered the third.

  Stan gave Jennie an empathetic smile, making him seem less intimidating. “Eric told us about your grandmother.”

  “It shouldn’t be too hard to find her. I have the coordinates. We’ll need medical supplies.” Jennie gave them the GPS and told them where to find the plane. They didn’t seem interested in hearing her coordinates. “How soon can we leave?” she asked.

  The men looked at Eric, then back at Jennie. “We’re riding out now,” Stan said. “You stay here. Rest.”

  “No. I want to come. Gram needs me.”

  “We’ll go alone.”

  “No way.”

  “You’ll just slow them down, Jennie.” Eric took hold of her arm.

  Jennie pulled it away. “How? Why can’t I just ride along?”

  “They’d have to wait for you to saddle up.”

  “Saddle up? You’re taking horses?”

  “It’s all we have.” Eric gave her a patronizing look.

  “I don’t understand. She needs help right away. A four-wheel drive would be faster.”

  “We don’t have a truck. There are no modern conveniences here, Jennie.” Eric spread his hands in frustration. “It’s our way.”

  “Well, your way stinks,” Jennie sputtered. “I’m going anyway. I’ll saddle my own horse. I don’t care what you say, I’m coming with you.” She leveled a challenging look at Stan.

  “You’ll stay here.” Stan glowered at her. He apparently was not used to having his orders questioned. His bulk seemed to increase as he stared her down.

  Glancing at Eric, he grumbled, “Take her to the women’s dorm.”

  Eric took Jennie’s arm again, and it was evident that this time he had no intention of letting her get away.

  “Wait, please.” Jennie tried to pull away, but Eric held her firm.

  “Stop fighting. It’s for your own good.”

  Ignoring her protests, the men stalked away. At the gate, they turned left and headed for the stables.

  “Why don’t we just follow them?”

  “Forget it. They’re not taking you or me. Trust me, Jennie. They’ll do better without us along. Come on. You must be hungry and tired. I am.”

  She was famished. All they’d eaten for breakfast was energy bars from her emergency rations. “Can I at least watch them leave?”

  “You don’t have to worry. They’ll find her. They were already planning to go out.”

  “What do you mean?” Jennie started pulling Eric toward the gate.

  “They knew about the plane before I told them.”

  “How?”

  Eric shrugged. “Maybe they had a vision. Or they might have heard it go down like I did. If it hadn’t been for the storm, they would have gone out yesterday. Anyway, the buckboard is already loaded with emergency supplies and the horses are ready.”

  “I thought you said there was a doctor. Is one of them a doctor?”

  “No, but they’ve all had Red Cross training. They’ll know what to do.” Eric tightened his grip on her arm to restrain her.

  As they reached the gates, the three men whipped by. Two, Daniel and Stan, were mounted on horses, while Craig drove an old buckboard wagon.

  When she felt Eric’s grip loosen, Jennie pulled away. For a moment she thought about getting a horse and going after the men despite orders, but she decided against it. They seemed capable enough. And Eric had a point. She probably would slow them down. God had answered her prayers and sent help. He’d brought her to a safe place. She had to trust that He would bring Gram back safely as well. She just wished their means of transportation were faster.

  “Why are they taking horses? Don’t you have trucks or something to use in an emergency? Going on horseback will take them forever.”

  “I told you. It’s all we have. They don’t have far to go.”

  “What about the airstrip? I saw it from the air. You must have planes. You could call Portland and have them send out a helicopter. They could life-flight her straight to the hospital.”

  “We don’t have telephones. And we don’t own any planes. The airstrip is provided for suppliers and exporters.”

  “Exporters?”

  “To take our products to the distributors.”

  “What products?” Jennie remembered again the aerial photographs Gram had taken. Were their “products” of interest to the DEA or the FBI? Fear knotted itself into a ball and settled in her stomach. The hair on the back of her neck stood at attention. What had she fallen into?

  Eric smiled proudly. “We produce some of the world’s purest herbs. Our products are shipped all over the world. That’s where the money comes from to maintain this place.”

  “Herbs? Like what?”

  He shrugged. “Like Echinacea, Saint-John’s-wort—those are a couple of the most popular herbs. I’ll show you around later.”

  Jennie straightened. It suddenly occurred to her that she was in a position to act as a secret agent. She’d infiltrated the ranks without meaning to. Had Gram been planning to become part of the sect to find out what they were really doing? Gram had always told her to make the most of any situation. She nodded, acknowledging Eric’s response. “Sounds good.”

  “Come on. I’ll take you to the women’s dorm, where you can get a shower and some clean clothes. Then we’ll have lunch.”

  They walked along one of many paths that curved and intersected like those you’d find on a college campus. All of the buildings were white with red roofs except for a large area covered by the huge dome she’d seen from the air. Jennie had a million questions about the place, but Eric told her they’d have to wait until they’d eaten.

  A young girl stood at the entrance to the women’s dorm. She was pale and thin, with enormous blue eyes and pale blond hair. She wore a simple soft blue dress with a high collar. She couldn’t have been more than sixteen. Eric introduced her as Marilee.

  “Welcome, Jennie.” Marilee took her hand and brought her inside.

  “I’ll see you in the dining room.” Eric waved and closed the door.

  “Bye, Eric.” Marilee bit her lower lip as she watched him leave. She had a high, melodic voice.

  “Is he your boyfriend?” Jennie asked.

  “Boyfriend?” Her cheeks flushed a bright pink.

  “Are you going out with him?” Jennie tried again.

  “You mean engaged?”

  “Not exactly.”

  “Eric is not my intended. When I am of age, I will marry James.” Marilee began walking down a long hallway. The white walls looked as though they had been freshly painted. Each door had a plaque with a Bible verse carved into it. Some of the doors had been left open to reveal one or two single beds with white sheets and dark gray blankets.

  Jennie frowned. “But you like Eric …”

  Marilee pushed open the door to room 28. “We all like one another here.”

  “So is Eric intended for anyone?”

  “He has not made his wishes known. Perhaps he will choose you.”

  Jennie frowned. “I’ll do my own choosing, thank you. Besides, I’m not going to be here long enough to be chosen by anyone.”

  Marilee tipped her head as a look of confusion crossed her fair features. “You have not joined us, then?”

  Jennie bit
her lip. “My grandmother and I were on our way to Mount Bachelor for a ski trip. Our plane went down. Eric found me and brought me here so we could get help. I don’t know much about this place. It seems interesting though. I’d like to learn more.”

  “Did Eric explain to you what we believe?”

  Jennie nodded. “Mostly. You’re Christians, right?”

  “It is more complicated than that. We are of the old order. Different from most people who call themselves Christians.”

  “What makes you different?”

  “While many on the outside claim to be believers, they do not live godly lives. They are not devoted followers of the Word.”

  “And the people here are?”

  “We strive for purity.” Marilee pointed toward the single bed and the clothes laid out on it. “When we join, we take a vow to give up everything that could have a corrupting influence.”

  “Like?”

  “Television, radio, telephones. No computers, internet, or cell phone service. Any money or property we have is sold, and the money goes into our general fund. Most of us don’t have a lot. I ran away from home when I was twelve. My parents drank and did drugs.”

  “How did you find this place?”

  “James.”

  “Your fiancé?”

  “Yes.” Marilee’s eyes brightened. “He was visiting the foster home where I had been placed. James told me about the Colony. He was so … perfect. I persuaded him to take me with him.”

  “You ran away with him? And you were only twelve?” Jennie’s anger flared. “Recruiting kids that young has to be against the law. What did the authorities do?”

  Marilee glared at her. “I chose to come. Donovan arranged things with the state. He is my father now. My parents were happy to be rid of me.”

  Jennie stared at Marilee in disbelief. “And you like it here?”

  “Very much. For the first time in my life I have people who care about me. I have food and clothing and … soon”—she blushed—”I will have a husband.”

  “James. How old is he, anyway?”

  “Ten years older than I.” Her jaw clenched. “I know what you are thinking, Jennie McGrady, and you should be ashamed. James has always shown the utmost respect for me. When we met, he treated me as a sister. He was concerned and wanted me to have a better life. Over time we came to see that we were suited for each other. Donovan agrees.”

  Jennie pursed her lips. “You don’t think he’s too old?”

  “Love has no boundaries.”

  “I …” Jennie started to argue but thought better of it. This wasn’t the time or the place.

  “The showers are across the hall. You’ll find shampoo, soap, and towels there. I’ll bring you a tray.”

  “Thanks.”

  By the time Jennie had showered and dressed and returned to the room, Marilee was waiting with a tray of food, which she’d placed on a small wooden table. Atop the table, a small vase of fresh flowers, a writing pad, and a Bible had been set to one side.

  “The dress fits you well.”

  Jennie didn’t think so. It was an old-fashioned ankle length, high-necked dress, homemade from a simple floral print similar to what Marilee wore. “It’s okay. I don’t wear dresses much. Mostly jeans.”

  Marilee tossed a disapproving glance at Jennie’s t-shirt and jeans. “They will be cleaned and returned when you leave. Until then, you will be expected to wear the clothing we provide.”

  “What about shoes?” Jennie pointed toward her hiking boots on the floor.

  Marilee glanced at the boots and frowned. “Normally, you’d have to wear shoes like mine, but I couldn’t find a size that would fit you, so those will have to do.”

  “Why can’t I wear my own clothes?”

  “It is not allowed.” Marilee gestured toward the table. “I have brought your meal. It is simple stew and bread with one of our special health drinks.”

  “Health drink?”

  “We make it fresh for every meal. It’s a wonderful blend of fruits, vegetables, and herbs.” Marilee smiled at Jennie’s grimace. “Everyone loves it.” She headed for the door. “Donovan says you are to eat and rest. Then Eric will take you to see him.”

  “This Donovan guy … does he have a last name?” “We are all brothers and sisters in Christ. We have no need for last names—they only create separations.”

  Jennie settled her tall frame into the wooden chair and began to eat. She took a tentative sip of the fruit and vegetable drink. Marilee was right. It tasted great. She downed the contents of the tall glass and started in on the stew. The homemade soup and bread reminded her of home, and Jennie wondered what her parents were doing. They’d be frantic by now. Would they be able to find the plane? Glancing out the window, she saw that it was still snowing. She ate quickly and pushed the tray aside.

  Lethargy settled over her like a heavy blanket. To dispel it, Jennie got up, then stretched and twisted from side to side. She didn’t have time to sleep. Had to find out if they’d found Gram. Had to talk to the head guy and find out more about the herbs.

  She staggered toward the door and twisted the doorknob. It wouldn’t open.

  5

  They’d locked her in.

  “Marilee!” Jennie banged on the door and shouted, “Let me out of here!”

  No one came. Jennie fumed in indignation. How dare they lock her in. She tried the door again.

  “Eric!” She tried yelling at him, too, but doubted he’d come to her rescue in the women’s dorm.

  “You can come and go as you please,” he’d said. Had he lied to her? Was she a prisoner? She tried the window but found it opened only six inches, which did her no good at all.

  A few minutes later her anger subsided. Rest. That’s what Marilee had said she should do before meeting Donovan. Was this their way of making certain she followed orders?

  Despite her irritation, Jennie yawned and crawled onto the narrow bed. Within minutes she was asleep.

  Jennie woke up cold and shivering. She reached for her own fluffy comforter, but it wasn’t there. Instead, her hand closed around a rough wool blanket. Sitting up, she yawned and rubbed her eyes. It took several moments to orient herself. She’d fallen asleep on top of the blankets and left the window open. Someone, probably Marilee, had locked her in. Jennie rolled off the bed, tangling her legs in the folds of the long skirt. Irritated, she untangled herself and went to close the window. The sky was an eerie yellow gray. Sunset. She winced. It was already after four and getting dark.

  The men should be back. Had they found Gram?

  Jennie ran a hand through her long hair as she hurried to the door. She had to pull hard, but this time it opened. Had it been locked before? Or had it just been stuck? Jennie’s memory was fuzzy. Maybe she hadn’t tried hard enough to open it.

  She crossed the hall to the bathroom. Splashing cool water on her face helped clear her head.

  Marilee stepped into the bathroom. When she spotted Jennie, she smiled. “Hi. Looks like you really needed that nap.”

  “Humph. Maybe so, but I don’t appreciate being locked in.”

  A look of surprise crossed her features. “Oh, but I didn’t—” She stopped short.

  “Maybe you didn’t, but someone did.”

  “You must be mistaken.” Marilee smiled. “Some of the doors in the older buildings have a tendency to stick.”

  “Right. Forget it.” Jennie grabbed one of the neatly folded hand towels on a shelf and dried her face. The door had been hard to open, but still … Jennie tossed the incident aside. It didn’t make sense that anyone would want to lock her in. No sense at all.

  “Um … we’re having afternoon prayer. Would you like to join us?”

  “I thought I was going to meet Donovan.” Jennie ran a brush through her hair and secured it in a loose knot on top of
her head.

  “Yes, but you slept past your meeting time. He has invited you and Eric to dine with him. Eric will take you to his quarters after prayer.”

  Jennie and Marilee walked side by side down the long hall. “Sounds like they’ve already started,” Jennie said.

  “We begin at four. Donovan thinks it’s important that we stay on schedule.” Marilee directed Jennie through a set of double doors down another hall. “This is our common area. We gather here for meals and services and meetings. The men’s dorm is on the other side.”

  “Have they come back-the men who went to look for my grandmother?”

  “Um … yes.”

  Jennie’s stomach lurched at the hesitation in Marilee’s voice. Something had gone wrong. “Did they find her?”

  “I really can’t say.” She paused at the open double doors. The singing increased in volume.

  “Why?”

  “Donovan will speak with you.” She placed a hand on Jennie’s shoulder. “Whatever happens, Jennie, I’ll be here for you. Just remember, all things work for good in accordance with God’s will.”

  Jennie wanted to shake her. What couldn’t she tell her? Jennie wanted to yell—insist she be taken to Donovan immediately—but she didn’t. She had to keep her cool. Had to observe these people. Had to stay alert—for Gram.

  The room they entered looked like a church sanctuary. A beautiful stained-glass window adorned the front wall. The last of the sun’s rays filled the room with a myriad of colors. A large cross draped with a white cloth hung from the ceiling. There was an altar in the center and a pulpit to the left of it. A kneeling rail framed them.

  About a hundred people knelt on kneeling benches in the pews. The women were all dressed in the same style clothing that Jennie and Marilee wore. The men wore trousers and white shirts. Their dress and mannerisms reminded Jennie of the Amish.