The Crystal Visions: A Families Journey into the Paranormal Volume 2 (9 page)

          After meeting with Sunny Markie
decided to go over to the diner and speak with Uncle Tullio in person. As soon as she entered the establishment Tullio approached with a warm hug and a kiss on both cheeks. They sat down at the family booth. “What is it Marquesa? You look like you have something on your mind.” Tullio had always been perceptive and knew when something was afoot with Markie. “I never could get anything past you could I Uncle?” Markie said sheepishly.

          Tullio took a sip of his espresso
while looking on expectantly. “I need your help Uncle.” Markie confessed. She told him about the house and what they wanted to do with it. “I have a lot of work to do here Marquesa.” He said his thin lips pursed. “What if I call Glenn and ask her to help out at the diner?” Markie suggested. Tullio’s forehead creases deepened. “She’s just been drifting since she sold the restaurant and I’m sure Sona and the girls would love to have her stay with us for a while.” Markie said almost too quickly. Tullio rubbed his stubbled chin. “I don’t know Marquesa…”  Tullio started to say. “Please Uncle. I need your help and frankly she needs to be with family and have something meaningful to do.” Markie almost begged. “Ok ok. You get her to come here and work in the diner while I help you… and she stays with you not me and we have a deal.” Tullio conceded. “Thank you Uncle!” Markie smiled at him. He had been her father figure since her father died and he had always been there for her. “It’ll be nice to get out of the kitchen for a while.” He admitted. ~

          Markie talked everything over with Sona and she agreed having Glenn stay for a while was a great idea… if they could get her to agree. Sona loved Markie’s little sister very much and they didn’t see nearly enough of her… especially since moving north. Markie braced herself for the uncomfortable phone call. “Hey Markie!!” Glenn shouted into the receiver. “How the hell are you?” Markie smiled at the familiar voice. “Listen Glenn I need you to come to Burk’s Falls and help out at the diner.” Markie blurt out. “Ohh no! I’m not working at some greasy spoon. No way, forget it!” Glenn told her flat out.

          Markie sighed
loudly before spending the better part of an hour explaining about their plans. “That sounds like a great plan big sister but you haven’t told me why I would want to come to your one horse town.” Glenn said. “How about because you want to do me a favor?!” Markie tried. “Um Nope.” Glenn replied. “Then how about because you want to see Sona and the girls.” Markie suggested. “You’re getting warmer.” Glenn teased. “How about you just do me a fucking favor because I asked you without making me beg. Jesus Christ Glenn! Why do you always have to give me such a frigging hard time about everything?!” Markie yelled into the phone.

          Emma walked into the parlor
. “Is that Aunt Glenn? Can I talk to her?” She whispered loudly to Markie knowing full well Glenn was the only one who could get Markie’s ire up. Markie took a deep calming breath and handed the phone to Emma. Sona came to the doorway when she heard Markie raise her voice. Emma spoke a few minutes on the phone before handing it off to Sona then went into the kitchen where Markie was standing with one hand on her hip and the other on the window frame staring at the River. “Glenn sounds so happy you invited her to stay for a while.” Emma told her. Markie sighed loudly. “Little sisters can be exasperating sometimes but I don’t know what I would do without Shaley.” Emma confessed. Markie reached over and gave Emma’s shoulder a squeeze. Of course Emma was right. She loved Glenn to pieces and she was sure it was reciprocated but for some unknown reason they had never learned to say it to each other.

          Markie promised
herself she would work on that this visit. Sona strolled in with the cordless phone still to her ear saying her good byes to Markie’s sister. “Ok Glenn. We’ll see you soon. We’re all looking forward to your visit. Love you bye bye.” Sona said handing the phone to Markie. Markie always marveled at how easy it was for Sona to voice her feelings. She took a deep breath and returned to the conversation with Glenn. Glenn told her she would wrap up things she was doing, tell her friends farewell and drive up on the Saturday. It was only a four hour drive so it was very manageable in one sitting. Markie was glad everything was settled and the cavalry was coming. Markie both looked forward to seeing Glenn and dreaded it at the same time. ~

          Shaley and Spencer stepped off the school bus with the rest of the kids from the after school program. Sona stood at the end of the driveway to meet them and walk them to the back door of the Church. “Where’s our Brandon?” She asked the group. “Thick” Spencer answered smiling. Elizabeth ran up to walk beside Spencer. Sona smiled thinking Elizabeth had a serious crush on him. “Maybe he’s just sick of school.” Sona joked. “No weel thick.” Spencer answered. “Real sick huh? Well I hope he gets better soon.” Sona marveled at how literal kids were sometimes.

         
Shaley liked going over to the Church and playing games with the kids for a while after school. She, Elizabeth and Spencer and sometimes Brandon or Connor would play video games. Today Spencer ran over to the TV to watch the weather forecast. For some reason he enjoyed telling Sona what the weather was going to be for the next day. “Mowo wain.” He ran to tell her. “It’s going to rain tomorrow huh? I’ll have to remember to wear my duck shoes.” Sona replied. “Yaaaa” Spencer replied smiling and pulling his cowlick. “Sona! I can’t get the video game to work.” Elizabeth said in a panic. “Ok let’s see what’s going on. You have to push the input button on the remote and then component one to change from TV to game.” She explained.

          Irene
tried to grab the remote control from Elizabeth and they almost started a wrestling match over it. Irene pinched Elizabeth and she let go of the remote to check her injury. “Irene, remember we talked about that. We don’t hurt or hit each other around here. Let me set up that game you like on the computer.” Sona took the remote and handed it to Elizabeth then took Irene over to an empty chair in front of one of the desktop computers. She then went to check on Elizabeth who was still whimpering. Sona checked Elizabeth who had a red welt forming on her forearm.

          A knock on the door
drew Sona’s attention away from the drama. It was Reuben’s mom. She carried a hanging potted Fuchsia plant and a new keyboard to replace the one Rueben smashed in frustration the previous day. The after school program had a bit of a bumpy beginning and Sona was already working on getting some co-op students to come after school for school credit in the fall to help out. ~

          Glenn packed up her Beemer, topped up the tank and hit the onramp of the Highway. She’d sold her restaurant because it had become too stressful. She’d put everything into that place, spent all her time there to the detriment of her relationship. One day she came home and he was gone. It was just as well because her relationship with Michael had been contentious from the get go. They’d conceived of the restaurant together but she had been the only one working there for the past few years and after he left… well she just didn’t have the passion for it any longer.

          Glenn had loved Michael and she’d loved the restaurant but now… that was all ancient history. Glenn took a deep breath and
moved the sunglasses from the top of her head down over her eyes. Maybe this was her chance at a new start. She sped along the highway and too quickly entered the lanes merging from the collector lanes to transition to the Expressway. Her brunette mane dancing behind and the defiant red streak she’d dyed along her temple made her look like the goddess of fire.

         
She had to admit to herself at least that she’d gone down a slippery slope since selling Harper’s Mill. Too much drink and pot and nothing constructive to do with her time had led to some very poor choices. She was however inwardly stoked about seeing her sister and her family. Markie had been a bit of a rebel in her day but when she met Sona all that had changed. At the time Glenn had vigorously mocked her but now she respected, admired and even envied her sister although she would never publicly admit that. Maybe some of Markie’s inner strength would rub off on her. God knows she needed it desperately. ~

          Sona had been asked by some of the parents to extend her program to Saturday morning once or twice a month to allow them time to do their shopping, appointments and other errands. She’d wanted the time to spend with her own family but she had reluctantly agreed. She decided to take the opportunity and use this particular Saturday to train her new assistant. The young woman she’d chosen for the position had a degree in Early Childhood Education along with a course in Psychology. She didn’t have much experience with people with special needs but Sona felt she had the right temperament so she gave her a shot.

          Spencer’s shift at the diner didn’t start until later so he came to hang out with his friends.
Elizabeth gravitated to him and immediately they went over to the video game they had been playing the previous evening. Sona introduced Lydia her new assistant to the kids as they arrived explaining their personalities as they went by. “Hi Irene.” Sona said cheerfully. Irene glared at the two women then flopped down on the couch beside Spencer and Elizabeth. Sona turned to Lydia. “Irene’s mom just had a baby and she’s having a little bit of trouble adjusting.” Sona explained. “Is she verbal?” Lydia asked. “Oh yes, she’s very intelligent. Her family is from Central America and she speaks three languages… when she has a mind to.” Sona explained to Lydia. “She’s been pushing and hitting some of the other children so we need to keep a close eye on her.” Sona whispered.

          Shaley walked in with a handful of wild flowers. “Hi Auntie. I thought we could do some crafts with these.”
She said smiling. Shaley took the flowers over to the activity table where Connor and Reuben joined her drawn by the scent of spring. Spencer came over and picked up a wild Orange Hawkweed to inspect more closely. Elizabeth tossed down her game controller and ran over to be at her usual spot at Spencer’s side. Elizabeth loved to help Sona with needed supplies or preparing snacks but when she wasn’t doing that she was glued to Spencer. She’d really taken a shine to him.

          Irene
sat on the couch with her legs pulled up in front of her hugging a throw pillow. She stood up, threw the pillow down and stomped over to the table as well. Spencer handed Elizabeth the Hawkweed he’d been admiring and she took it gleefully. Elizabeth danced around in circles twirling the flower. Irene snatched the flower from her and threw it onto the ground and stomped on it. “No!” Spencer exclaimed. Irene lunged at Elizabeth but Lydia seeing the direction of her movement went to intercept. Instead of pushing Elizabeth Irene shoved Lydia who fell unceremoniously onto her butt. Sona was immediately standing in front of her. “Irene no!” Sona said sternly.

         
Irene was face to face with Sona her hands clenched tightly into fists. She turned and started to go around the room throwing anything she could physically lift. Her temper erupted like a volcano whose mountain couldn’t contain the buildup of pressure any longer. Lydia was back up on her feet and quickly escorted the other children down the hall to Emma’s exercise room. “Shaley call Irene’s parents!” Sona shouted to her niece. Shaley jumped into action as Irene continued her rampage screaming in anger and frustration. Sona knew there was no sense trying to stop her and just hoped she would run out of steam eventually. She stood by the door and hoped they would arrive quickly. Shaley returned to the room’s entrance. “Shay, could you please go to the end of the driveway and direct Irene’s parents here.” Sona asked pointing toward the exit. Shaley did as she was asked. Irene had exhausted objects to throw or break so she threw herself on the ground kicking and screaming… ~

          Glenn pulled her car into the driveway of The Old Rectory. She was thinking how pleased she was to have made such good time and missed all the weekend traffic of people headed north to their cottages. She noticed a commotion in the Church drive next door and she knew her sister and Sona owned that building as well. She jumped out of her Beemer and sprinted across the lawn and the Church parking lot. Shaley spotted her and ran into her arms. “Auntie Glenn!” A muffled voice came out of Shaley as she was pressed into Glenn’s shoulder. “What the hell is going on?” Glenn said very concerned. “Mm mm mmmmm!” Shaley replied. Glenn frowned and pried Shaley off her shoulder. “It’s one of Aunt Sona’s Peeps. She flipped out and trashed the place.” She said when Glenn held her at arms’ length. “Is Sona ok?... are you?” Glenn said looking her over carefully. “I’m fine. I’m so glad you’re here!” Shaley said hugging her tightly again.

          Sona came ou
t of the Churches side door. Irene’s father had loaded her into the back seat and slammed the door. Sona was followed by another smaller woman holding her wrist at an awkward angle. Glenn went over to Sona who waved her hand. “Glenn I’m so glad you’re here. Could you please do me a favor and take Lydia here to the emergency room in Huntsville to have her wrist looked at.” Sona asked still a little distracted. ”What! I don’t even know where that is.” Glenn started to protest. “I have to stay here with the rest of the children… please Glenn.” Sona begged. “I’ll show you where it is. Can we please go now?” Lydia said cringing. “I’ll tell you all about it when you get back… and thank you!” Sona promised. Glenn pointed to her car. “That’s my Beemer over there. Let’s get you checked out.” She said to Lydia. ~

          Shaley stood in the window of the spare room overlooking the front yard and street. She very much hoped Aunt Glenn would get back soon. She’d barely had time to say hello when she took off again and it had been hours. She looked around the room. Sona had furnished the room with some of the pieces of furniture the previous owner had left in the house. Shaley took one last look around to make sure everything was ready for Glenn. She checked the en-suite bathroom for cleanliness, new bar of soap and fresh towels. She made sure the pedestal sink was spotless and the faucet tight.

          Shaley looked into the old mercury glass mirror and saw her old friend Nurse Gordon standing behind her. Back in the day wealthy families hired actual nurses to take care of their infants.
Nurse Gordon had become a beloved member of the family and had spent more than a decade helping the family raise the children. Shaley knew her as a stern woman but she also knew this woman loved and watched over the family and especially the children in her charge. “My Aunt is here to stay with us for a while.” Shaley told Nurse Gordon’s image. “I’m so happy she’s here I’ve missed her.” Nurse Gordon didn’t respond she just nodded her head and walked out of the room.

          Nurse Gordon wasn’t your average apparition. She had real substance and it wasn’t odd to find doors locked
or closed that were open only moments before. She’d taken her job seriously in life and still did in the afterlife. She wore a white uniform with white stockings, a nurses’ cap with a navy blue stripe. She wore a cameo on her neck and a blue cardigan draped over her shoulders. She hadn’t meant to startle Sona when they first moved into the house. She quite liked the idea of having a family to take care of again. Each family member at some point had caught glimpses of her from time to time and soon it had become a running joke about Nurse Gordon straightening shoes in the foyer or placing clothes in the hamper. Shaley could feel the love and compassion she had in her soul and that she just really wanted to be of service. Shaley heard tires on gravel and ran downstairs hoping it was Glenn. ~

          The dinner table was covered with Sona’s best dishes in advance of the meal. She’d prepared Glenn’s favorite, roast beef. Sona filled everyone in on the days’ events. Irene had a complete meltdown and wouldn’t be returning to the program. Glenn didn’t waste any time digging into her plate. She took a huge bite of tender roast, mashed potatoes and gravy. “Oh my god Sona this is fantastic.” She said with her mouth full. She closed her eyes and savored the flavors. “Sorry that was rude of me. So your friend has a severely sprained wrist. They gave her a splint and some Tylenol 3’s for pain and sent her home.” Glenn informed Sona.

          Sona handed Shaley the salt. “She’s not exactly my friend. She only just started working for me today.” Sona sighed.
“Damn!” Glenn said. “I’m wondering if she will even be coming back after todays’ fiasco. I’ll give her a call after dinner to see how she is and where her head is.“ Sona thought out loud. “Aunt Glenn will you watch a movie with me?” Shaley asked changing the subject. “Sure kid. As soon as dinner is over we can watch whatever you want.” Glenn smiled warmly. “Shaley if you’re done eating could you take Glenn to her room and show her around?” Markie asked. Shaley bolted out of her chair and ran to the foyer to get Glenn’s duffle bag.

          Emma helped Sona clear the table. “Glenn I talked to Uncle Tullio and he wants to talk to you about the diner.” Markie said to her little sister. Glenn ignored her. “Is there anywhere around here I can get a drink?” She asked no one in particular. “Uncle Tullio and Naomi hang out at the Legion on the weekends.” Emma offered. “Perfect! I can kill two birds with one stone.” Glenn said cheerfully then followed Shaley
down the hall and up the front staircase. ~

          Shaley took the heaviest of Glenn’s bags and started up the stairs. Glenn for her part followed momentarily with the rest of her gear. “What do you think of the house? It’s great right.” Shaley smiled. She walked to the end of the hall toward the front of the house. “It’s amazing.” Glenn said taking a cursory look around the upper floor. “I love this room. The energy in here is nice and light… and you can see when people come and go.” Shaley said pointing toward the window. Glenn dropped her bags by the door. “You can use these drawers and the closet is over there. It’s small but Sona says it’s a miracle we even have them in a house this old. You also have your own bathroom in there.” Shaley turned to smile at her favorite Aunt.

          Glenn smiled checking out the room’s features. It was like walking into a place in history.
“Ok then I’ll meet you downstairs for that movie. Any one in particular you want to see? Aunt Markie has quite the collection.” Shaley said heading out the door. “I’m sure whatever you pick will be fine.” Glenn responded. “Ok I’ll meet you downstairs. Don’t be long or we’ll end up watching some sports show Emma likes.” Shaley said. “Wait Shaley!” Glenn called after her. Shaley peeked her head back into the room.

         
Glenn sat down on the edge of the bed and patted the place beside her indicating she wanted Shaley to join her. “Do you really think Markie is happy I’m here?” Glenn asked. “Oh sure. She’s always telling us stories about the trouble you two got into as kids. I think she really misses you… we all do.” Shaley confided. Glenn sighed as though a great weight had been lifted from her shoulders. “Shaley can I ask you something?” Glenn was more tentative this time. “Sure what’s up?” Shaley answered. “What the hell is all this about you seeing and talking to ghosts and shit? Is that true?” Glenn suddenly looked very serious. Shaley giggled. “I love that you don’t treat me like a dumb kid Auntie Glenn.” Shaley said covering her mouth to giggle.

          Glenn just looked at her expectantly. “I see and talk to people who have crossed over. I don’t know why no one else sees them. It feels perfectly normal to me.” Shaley said seriously. “I like that when people are gone from this world and the physical existence that they’re not really gone.” Shaley
said looking into Glenn’s eyes. “I can understand that… no offense but I don’t really want to see ghosts.” Glenn smiled but looked worried at the same time. Shaley decided not to tell her about Nurse Gordon or her Father who were both hovering nearby. ~