Ambrosine

by Noreen Harrison

  “Oh.” Claire said, concerned. “So, is everything good now, with your mother and her family?”

  “Yes, it seems to be all good.” They both turned their attention back to the painting, as I smiled to myself.

  They seem to be satisfied with my answers.

  Then Libby got my attention. “This painting is beautiful. When was it done?”

  “I’m not sure, maybe it was done last year, when my father died.” I was guessing of course. I wanted to leave the library before the girls could ask more questions. I looked toward the window, noticing the rain had stopped. I saw an opportunity.

  “Girls, come on, there’s one place you have to see.”

  “There’s more?” Libby asked with anticipation.

  “Yes, the gardens.”

  “There are gardens?” Her eyes lit up.

  “Oh yes there are.” I replied with a grin.

  We went upstairs to retrieve our jackets before we went out. I sat on my bed for a minute, collecting my thoughts. The girls would probably have a lot more questions for me. One thing I knew for sure is that we would avoid the library like the plague while they were here.

  I met Libby in the hallway, and we walked arm in arm down the stairs. I wasn’t even focusing on her, but I could sense her thoughts. She was thinking of Davis and wondering what he was doing, and that this would be a beautiful place to have her wedding.

  “Hey, Alixia! Are you okay? You stopped right in the middle of the stairs.”

  “Oh, I’m sorry. I guess my mind wandered off for a second.” I let loose of her, so that I wouldn’t have any more distractions.

  Claire was waiting for us in the foyer by the door. We went out to the veranda and on toward the pond so that they could see the statue better. Claire commented, “Hey, Alixia, this statue looks like you!”

  “What are you talking about?” I looked up at it.

  Libby agreed by saying, “You know, there is a likeness.” We all stared at the statue. I looked up at it more closely. “Well, maybe a little. But remember, this is my family estate now. You’re right, though; I wonder whose image it is?”

  Claire laughed and said, “It’s probably another lost aunt of yours.”

  “Funny, Claire.” Libby shook her head and said, “Come on, you two.”

  We finished our walk through the gardens and went back to the mansion. Mother met us at the door and said, “Dinner will be ready soon, why don’t you girls wash up and we will meet you in the dining room.”

  “Let’s go girls.” I said.

  “Wait, Alixia.” Said Mother. “I need to talk to you. Go ahead girls, she will be right there.” She waited until they were out of earshot. “You are keeping our secret, right?”

  “Yes, Mother, but we have to keep them out of the library.”

  “Oh…the family…yes, we must keep them out of there. I will tell the staff, don’t worry.”

  “Thank you.”

  After we cleaned up, the girls and I went to the dining room where Mother and Madame Cecilia were waiting for us. I sat down and the table. “It smells good!” I said, as we were being served.

  Libby jumped right in with her interrogative way as she picked up her fork. “So Madame Ambrosine, I heard you’re Alixia’s aunt? It must be nice to have your family back together again?”

  “Yes it is, Libby.” She smiled and winked at me. “We’ve been catching up on a lot of family history, haven’t we, Alixia?”

  “Oh yes, I think we covered about five hundred years of history by now,” I said. The girls laughed, unaware that I wasn’t kidding, while mother scowled at me.

  We spent dinner reminiscing about things we’d done while growing up together. Mother also joined in and told a few funny stories of when we were young. I looked over at Madame Cecilia while we were talking. She seemed to be enjoying the stories and the banter of our conversation. I was glad that she could hear a little bit of our history, too. We finished dinner and went into the den to enjoy the rest of the evening before bed.

  The next morning, I awoke early, but I hadn’t slept well again. The dreams were getting more intense. I lay in bed trying to figure out why the shadows were invading my dreams every night and wondering if I would ever have a sound sleep again. Wearied, I decided to get up and get ready for the day. It was raining again. I washed up and put on something warm. As I walked down the hallway, I passed each of the girls’ rooms on my way downstairs. I peeked in and they were still sleeping.

  As usual, Mother was drinking her morning coffee and reading the paper when I entered the dining room. We both said good morning to each other. Sitting down, I poured myself a glass of milk and reached for a fresh, hot biscuit and the jar of honey. As I spread the honey out, I watched it melt slowly into my biscuit. Mother looked over her paper and asked with concern in her voice, “Alixia, you look tired. Didn’t you sleep well again?”

  “No.” I replied, grimacing with irritation. “I am still having those stupid dreams about dark, shadowy things, and I think my powers are changing too.”

  She looked intently at me. “Are your dreams getting out of control?”

  “No, I just wish I could sleep through the night once without dreaming.” I took a bite of my biscuit.

  She heaved a sigh. “You will soon, I promise.”

  I swallowed. “How do you know that?”

  She put down her paper. “I had a vision things will start getting better as we get closer to the Gathering.”

  “I hope so.”

  “Now,” she folded her hands, “what’s this about your powers?”

  I told her what happened with Libby on the staircase. Mother took a sip of her coffee like she wasn’t concerned at all and said dismissively, “Your powers will get stronger as time goes on, and others will surface, too, as we get closer to your coming forward.”

  I felt a little unsettled. “No weird abilities are going to surface while my friends are here, are they?”

  She grinned at me and chuckled a little. “No, I don’t think so. Just try to enjoy the time you have with your friends while they are here, and tomorrow we will talk more.”

  I took a sip of milk.

  Mother’s right, I need to have fun, relax and enjoy being with my friends.

  “Good morning.” The girls said as they entered the room.

  “Good morning.” Mother said. “Are you hungry?”

  ”Yes, I’m famished.” Libby said as she sat down at the table. Claire was right behind her and echoed, “I’m a little hungry, too.”

  “Good, I’ll have the cook make you girls some breakfast. Do eggs and bacon sound good?”

  “Yes.” we all said together.

  Mother left the room. Then Libby, Claire and I started making plans for the day. Of course everyone had her own ideas about what we should do. As I sat there listening to Libby and Claire debate about where to have lunch, my mind wandered to Marcus and the thought of seeing him. I hoped the day would go fast.

  Finally, they settled on the restaurant, and then we all agreed on the rest of the outing, namely driving into New Orleans to go shopping and taking in a matinee.

  We went through the day enjoying one another’s company, laughing and being silly just like we always did. When we finally returned home, it was early evening. We greeted Madame Cecilia, who was just coming down the staircase.

  “Hi, we’re back.” I said cheerfully. ”Where’s Mother?”

  “The last time I saw her, she was in the library, reading.”

  “Oh, she’s in there huh…well, we’re going upstairs to get ready for our dates. Could you let her know we’re home?”

  “Yes, I’ll tell her.”

  “Thank you.”

  “Did you girls have a nice day?”

  “Yes.” We all said at the same time.

  “I am glad to hear that. It’s nice you have good friends.” She gave me a quick hug. “You better head upstairs now.”

  Within ten minutes, I had clothes lying all over m
y bedroom.

  What am I going to wear?

  I fretted. Looking at the mess, I heard a knock on the door.

  “It’s me, Alixia.” Mother came in. She was holding a couple of dresses. “Here, I brought you these evening dresses to try on.”

  “You’re a lifesaver, Mother!” I chose one of the dresses. It was a cute, little black dress with spaghetti straps. The dress came with a short jacket to cover my shoulders. I tried it on and looked in the mirror. It fit perfectly.

  “Yes, this is the one! I don’t need to try on the other one.”

  “I agree; it looks beautiful on you.” She came up behind me, put her hand on my shoulder and looked in the mirror at me. I reached up and put my hand on hers. “Thank you, Mother.”

  “You’re welcome. Now, finish getting dressed and I’ll go downstairs to wait for your dates to arrive.”

  “Mother?” I said as she was walking out the bedroom door. She turned. “Please, don’t interrogate him.” She smiled wickedly and headed downstairs.

  I finished touching up my hair and went to see if the girls were ready. Libby was just coming out of her room when she saw me.

  “Alixia, you’re beautiful! Marcus won’t be able to take his eyes off you tonight.”

  “Are you sure?”

  Claire was coming down the hall and heard Libby’s comment. “Yes, we’re sure!”

  I hugged them both and told them how beautiful they looked, too. When we went downstairs, the boys were waiting for us in the den. Of course, Davis went right to Libby and kissed her as if we weren’t even there.

  As I was caught up in watching them in their embrace, Marcus came over and stood by me. His hand brushed up against mine. The sensation of his touch ran through me like electricity. I tried to play it cool, despite feeling my face growing warmer. I took slow, calming breaths to compose myself. Libby was scolding Davis, telling him to behave himself.

  Mother didn’t say a word about Davis’ behavior. She probably thought Libby was doing a good enough job without her help.

  I glanced up at the clock. “Shouldn’t we get going?”

  Libby turned and looked at me. ”You’re right. Come on, Davis.” She took his hand.

  We all went out on the veranda. As we were getting into the car, I heard Mother say, “Drive carefully, and be home at eleven.”

  “Don’t worry, Mrs. Cavalier,” Marcus said, “I’ll have them home on time.”

  “I’m not worried.” She eyed me. I rolled my eyes.

  We all got into the car. Marcus made sure I was by his side and Claire sat by the passenger door. As we drove down the road, a full moon lit our way, casting a luminescent halo over the bayous and deltas.

  Marcus leaned into my shoulder and whispered in my ear. “You look very pretty tonight.” I felt his warm breath tickle my neck. My heart raced as the smell of his cologne lingered around me.

  “Thank you.” I stammered. He weakened my thoughts again. I knew Marcus had a power too, mostly over me. I was hopelessly obsessed with him.

  On the way to the restaurant, the girls and I talked about our day. During the conversation, I tried not to touch Marcus or Claire, hoping to avoid their private thoughts. But when the car jolted after we hit a bump and Marcus shifted gears, I was amazed at how quickly I could go into their minds. Claire seemed to be amused with the conversation in the back seat, especially when Robert talked. I had a sense that she was trying to get close to Robert. Marcus was worried about me. I tried to sit a little closer to find out why, but since I didn’t want to seem too forward, I was only able to hear bits and pieces of his thoughts.

  We arrived at the restaurant and went inside. It was beautifully decorated in reds and golds. There was candlelight at each table. The band was playing soft music in the background. A maître d’ came over to greet us. Marcus put his hand on his shoulder and said, “Girls, this is my Uncle Louis.”

  “Bonjour, ladies.” He greeted us warmly. “Here, let me show you to your table.”

  We walked through the dining room toward the back, passing other diners enjoying their meals. Reaching our table, we paired off and sat down. Louis smiled. ”Your waiter will be here soon. Enjoy your meal and if you need anything, please let me know.”

  “Thank you, Uncle Louis.” Marcus said.

  Everyone started talking at once. I heard Libby telling Davis about the ballroom at the mansion and how it would be a nice place to have a masquerade ball during Mardi Gras. Robert and Claire were talking about her move up north. I watched her lean closer into him as they discussed their schools.

  Marcus and I quietly looked at each other listening to the music from the band. He then took my hand and said, “Would you like to dance?” I nodded and we walked out onto the dance floor. He put his arm around my waist and pulled me toward him. I was in his head again; he was still worried about me.

  Suddenly, I heard my name.

  “Alixia.” It was Marcus trying to get my attention. “Did you hear me?”

  I gazed up and into his eyes, trying to stay focused on his voice and not his subconscious. “I’m sorry…uh what did you say?”

  He looked puzzled and repeated the question. “Do you want go to the Mardi Gras Ball with me?”

  That was it! He was afraid of me saying no!

  I moved closer into his arms to reassure him and in a soft voice, I replied, “Yes.”

  “Okay then.” He brought me in closer. “It’s a date.”

  The music stopped and we returned to our table. Marcus held my chair for me as I sat down. He leaned in and kissed my cheek. “Thank you for the dance.” He said.

  I felt my face grow warm again. “You’re welcome.” I said as I saw Libby and Claire smiling with approval.

  We ate our meal of shrimp and steak and ordered dessert, enjoying one another’s company. Davis brought up the Ball.

  “So, did you say yes, Alixia?” Asked Claire.

  I nodded.

  “Good, our plan worked then. See, Marcus, I told you that you had nothing to worry about.” Said Claire.

  “I wasn’t worried.” Marcus said as his face turned red. I reached over and took his hand. “Come on Marcus, let’s dance.” I said as I dragged him away.

  Marcus took me into his arms. “I’m sorry, Alixia. I didn’t intend for everyone to be in on my asking you to the Ball.”

  I was uncomfortable for him, and said, “It’s all right. I’ve known them long enough to know that they probably even told you how to ask me.”

  His cheeks reddened even more. “Well, yes, but it did work.” He brought me to him tighter. My body weakened a little. I smiled up at him. ”I would have said yes even without their coaching.”

  The evening went by quickly. Before we realized it, it was time to head home. Marcus’ uncle returned to our table. We all thanked him for the excellent meal and entertainment. He was very gracious and invited us to come back any time.

  When we walked outside, the evening air felt cool against my skin. The sidewalk and street were busy with people coming and going as we walked toward our car. Suddenly, I sensed something dark near me, and then a sensation of icy knives went through me. I froze for a second, and then turned around quickly, scanning the crowd. Nothing. Someone or something was there. I still felt the dark coldness.

  Libby grabbed my arm and said, “Alixia, what’s wrong?”

  “Nothing.” I looked at her and saw the worry in her eyes. “I just thought I saw someone I knew, that’s all.” I was eager to change the subject. “Let’s get into the car.” I urged everyone.

  On the way home, I was only half-listening to the conversations, interjecting once in a while with a comment. Mostly, I was deep in thought, wondering why this dark entity kept haunting me. I couldn’t wait until I got home where I would be safe.

  Marcus reached over and touched my hand. “Are you all right? You haven’t said much since we left the restaurant.” I looked out the window and realized we were almost home. I could see the mansion up ahead.


  “I’m sorry; I have been a little preoccupied since our move.”

  “Are you sure nothing is bothering you?” He asked.

  “I’m sure.” I tried to smile reassuringly at him.

  We pulled up in front of the mansion. The girls, Davis and Robert got out first and started walking toward the front entrance. Marcus held me back.

  “I enjoyed tonight and I hope we will have another evening like this one soon.” He leaned in and kissed me. I felt the tenderness and the desire of his lips against mine. I went weak for a second. I had never had this kind of sensation before.

  Oh…Mother was so right; I am infatuated with this boy.

  I returned his kiss with the same passion.

  Marcus took my hand and we walked up the steps to the veranda. I tried not to read his thoughts, but it was hard to keep it under control. I smiled to myself, knowing that he was infatuated with me, too.

  Everyone was waiting for us on the veranda, including, to my surprise, Gabriel, the driver.

  Davis said, “About time, you two. We have to get going. We have a train to catch tomorrow.”

  Marcus put his arm around me. “I’ll see you tomorrow.” He whispered. He kissed me and went to the car.

  The girls and I watched as the boys drove down the road. I turned to see that Gabriel was also gone. He was probably there at Mother’s request to watch over us.

  “Come on, girls.” I said, still in a daze.

  We went inside to find Mother and Madame Cecilia in the den. We sat for a while, talking about our evening, until Claire yawned.

  “I am getting tired. I think I’ll head up to bed.” She said.

  Libby stood up in agreement. “Me, too.” They walked to the door and looked at me. Claire asked sleepily, “Are you coming, Alixia?”

  “I will be up in a few minutes. I want to talk to Mother.”

  “Okay. Goodnight.” As they left, I went over and sat by Mother, moving in close to her.

  “What is it? Are you okay?” She asked.

  I told her what happened while we were leaving the restaurant. Madame Cecilia came over and sat next to me. They both held my hands, forgetting about my ability, as they tried to comfort me. I could sense their fears and heard their thoughts. Mother was worried about leaving me alone, while Madame Cecilia wondered why it was happening now and why was he or she being so open. She kept repeating that statement in her mind. They pulled their hands away from me, realizing I was focusing on them.