Turbulence

by

Julie O

  

Part One

  

Karen was hanging on, but just barely. The doctor said that she would need more surgery, as soon as they stabilized her condition. I nodded and began to internally chant again for her survival.

Aunt Kayla suggested that I go back home, but I refused. I vowed to stay until I knew Karen would make it. She nodded and told me that she would run home and get me a change of clothes. She also wanted to check on the progress of Karen's family. They had been delayed due to weather and were trying to get out as soon as possible.

Bill thanked her and he also tried to get me to leave with her. He also surrendered to the fact that I wasn't leaving. A few minutes later a man in a tailored suit walked into the waiting area and waved to Bill. He stood up and shook hands with him.

"Iona, this is Detective Ross, and he needs to ask you a few more questions," announced Bill.

I looked up and nodded.

"I know you are distraught, but I have a couple of questions," he asked as he sat down next to me.

Bill and Sean excused themselves. I understood that it was necessary, as I was now part of the investigation. Det. Ross took out a notebook and smiled at me.

"Tell me about your relationship with Nick Bass," queried Det. Ross.

"I first met him a few years ago back in Boston. I was 18 and in the middle of a major rebellion stage. Nick treated me like an adult and I fell for him. We were together for a few weeks, and then split up. We did get back together again a few times to party. The last time was late last year," I replied.

Det. Ross nodded and continued to write.

"The last time I saw him was last year back in New York City. Nick was different. He was strange and to be honest, he frightened me. I also wanted to get my life back in order. I began to get e-mail from him a few weeks ago. I never responded to him. The next time I saw him was in the parking lot at The Reef," I stated.

"Tell me about Dan Schultz calling you yesterday," asked Det. Ross.

I told him what had happened.

"You say the message from Dan may have been recorded?" asked Det. Ross.

"Yes, I didn't get to the phone until the answering machine turned on. I never bothered to erase it," I answered

"I would like to listen to it. I can't believe that your manager just gave out your address to this man," stated Det. Ross.

"Well, Tom was angry when he fired me," I answered. I then told him about the circumstances of my firing.

Det. Ross shook his head in disbelief.

"We know Nick was in Karen's apartment and that the caliber of the handgun matches the one Nick had. We are waiting for ballistics lab results for final positive confirmation. We also have Nick's fingerprints all over her apartment," he added.

"You think that Nick followed Dan to Karen's house?" I asked, even though I knew the answer.

"That's what it looks like. We can place the time of the shooting to shortly after Dan called you," stated Det. Ross.

I felt a wave of grief, anger, and guilt sweep through my body. Once again, I began to chant internally for Karen's recovery.

"I am sorry about your friends. I also wish there was something I could do about your ex-boss, but we can't prosecute someone just because he's a jerk," he said with a smirk.

I broke out in a small smile.

"I will still swing by The Reef and interview him. At least I can make him feel guilty," whispered Det. Ross to me. "I know you feel bad, but you are not responsible. Nick Bass was involved in some really bad things. You are lucky he didn't abduct you."

"Thanks," I said softly.

"I will send an officer by your home to get the recording. Is your Aunt at home?" he asked.

"I think so," I replied. I picked up my cell phone and called her.

She said that she was out running some errands and that she would be home in the next 20 minutes. I passed the info to Det. Ross.

Det. Ross got up and thanked me, before walking away. Bill appeared a few minutes later.

"You impressed Ed Ross," greeted Bill, as he walked up to me.

I looked up at him and tried to speak, but I was soon overwhelmed by my emotions. Thankfully Bill saw my need to be hugged and he wrapped his arms around me.

"Why don't you let me drive you home so you can get some sleep?" suggested Bill. "You look exhausted!"

"I can't. I want to be here as soon as she wakes up," I said optimistically.

Bill looked at me and was about to say something, but I interrupted him.

"She will recover," I stated, as if it was a fact. "Karen's family won't get here until this evening. When Karen wakes up I want her to see a familiar face."

Bill knew that it was a waste of time to try and talk me out of staying.

"I sent Sean home. Iona, I have to run by the office, but I will be back in a few hours. Call me if anything happens. Hang in there, honey," he said, in a sympathetic tone.

We hugged again and I watched him walk away.

The next couple of hours passed very slowly. Aunt Kayla arrived and was carrying a bag of food.

"I want you to eat something. Starving yourself won't help Karen," she insisted.

"Actually, I am famished!" I replied. I really was hungry and I ate my meal eagerly.

As we ate, I noticed that the TV was showing the local news. I looked at my watch and saw that it was 5:00 PM! I had lost all track of time.

"Look, there is The Reef on the TV!" I exclaimed.

"There was another interesting twist in the bizarre shootings last night in Pacific Beach and Sunset Cliffs. Tom Martin, the manager of The Reef, the popular Pacific Beach nightspot, and employer of the two young shooting victims was arrested a few minutes ago. Police have not released many details, but the arrest appears to be unrelated to the shootings. We will get back to you as soon as we know more," commented the reporter.

I looked over at Aunt Kayla and she gave me a smile and her best "I had nothing to do with this", look. I didn't believe her for a moment!

A few minutes later the reporter was back on the tube interviewing Det. Ed Ross, who announced the circumstances surrounding Tom's arrest. Apparently, Tom had been dealing drugs and was caught while he was trying to move them out of The Reef. He was caught with nearly two pounds of cocaine as Det. Ross arrived. Det. Ross said Tom was in such a hurry to leave that he made no attempt to hide it. Tom appeared to be caught totally off guard by the arrival of the police. Det. Ross commented that it was the easiest arrest he's ever made in his life.

I looked over at Aunt Kayla and smiled. "I think I know what errands you were running," I quipped.

"I just had a little talk with Mr. Martin. The drugs are the least of his worries. Apparently he was also laundering money for some nasty people. I am always amazed about the secrets in these people's lives," she answered. "I also did this because I didn't want you charging in there seeking revenge."

I pointed at my chest. "Who me?" I asked.

"Seriously, we will need to talk about your powers," answered Aunt Kayla in a serious tone. "I talked to Amelia and she is also concerned."

I sat there in silence.

"Your powers are apparently becoming much stronger, and we are worried that you may have trouble controlling them," added Aunt Kayla.

"Why are my powers becoming so strong?" I asked.

"We are not sure, but it may be due to the combining of powers. Body-swap cases like yours are rare. Amelia is researching it; there have been any similar events," explained Aunt Kayla.

"Will they get totally out of control?" I asked.

"You will have to be very careful, until you have learned to master them," stated Aunt Kayla. "I have full confidence that you will master your powers."

"I understand," I said, "and thank you for your belief in me."

We sat there and waited and waited and waited.

Bill and Sean walked into the waiting area and joined us.

"Any word?" asked Sean anxiously.

"Nothing yet," I said.

"I guess you heard about your ex-boss," said Bill, pointing to the TV.

"Yes, too bad," I said sarcastically and glanced over at Aunt Kayla, who smiled back at me.

Bill and Sean sat down next to us. Sean looked like hell. I guess he really was in love with Karen.

"I wish they would let us know SOMETHING!" I exclaimed. Figuring I was thinking the same thing as everyone else.

Almost instantly a doctor came through the doors. Thank you powers!

"I have some encouraging news. While Karen is not out of the woods yet, she is stable following her surgery. I think we may have saved her," explained the doctor. "She is very tough."

 

Apparently the bullets had caused a lot of internal injury. One went through her chest and lodged near her spinal cord, but they were able to remove it. There didn't appear to be any damage to the spinal cord. Her right lung was damaged and she was on a respirator. The other shot went into her abdomen, and had caused severe bleeding. The doctor honestly said that he was shocked that she was still alive.

"Is she awake?" I asked hopefully.

"We are keeping her sedated for now. It is best that she doesn't move around too much. Please go home, you should be able to see her in the morning," answered the doctor in a sympathetic tone.

I debated staying there anyway, but was overridden by everyone! I thanked the doctor and gave him a big hug.

We stood out in the parking lot and said goodnight. The cool evening air felt so good.

Bill turned to me and began to speak. "They allow visitors starting at 8:00 AM, and I assume that you will be here…"

 

"As soon as they let me in," I interrupted with a smile.

Bill smiled back. "It is good to see you smile again." He then kissed me. It felt good.

I hugged Sean and kissed Bill goodbye. Aunt Kayla retrieved the car and drove up to us. I waved goodbye and got in the car. I fell asleep in the car before we left the parking lot.

 

Part Two

 

I woke up the next morning in my bed. I still felt exhausted and looked at the clock. It was only 6:00 AM, but I got up anyway. The shower felt wonderful and I felt a bit more refreshed. I looked awful. I was getting dark circles under my eyes and I looked gaunt.

I went downstairs and fixed myself some breakfast. I was famished and needed more than my normal tea and muffin. I began to cook some scrambled eggs and bacon, when Aunt Kayla came downstairs.

"How are you doing this morning, my dear?" she asked.

"Great. I am exhausted and hungry, but no longer depressed," I said. "Would you like some eggs?"

"Sounds great," she answered. "I'll set the table."

Breakfast hit the spot. I felt as if my energy levels were returning to normal. I mentioned this to Aunt Kayla.

"That is not uncommon. Whenever you use your powers, you use energy, just like exercise," she explained. "But you need to ease up. It's obvious that this is a huge strain on your body."

"Should I feel this tired after what I did to Nick?" I asked.

"You are not tired from that, my dear," she answered. "I saw you in the waiting room. I could tell that you were trying to send your friend positive feelings."

"Yes, that's true, but I wasn't using my powers," I said.

"Are you sure? You heard the doctor; he was amazed that she was able to make it through the surgery. Iona, you didn't save her, but you did give her a boost that allowed her body to survive," commented Aunt Kayla. "I am very proud of you."

I knew she wasn't kidding me. I liked the idea of using my powers for life, instead of death.

"Fiona will be arriving soon, along with her investigator, and she will meet us at the hospital. I also got a call from Karen's family. Their flight was delayed and should get here this afternoon. They appreciated you staying with Karen yesterday," announced Aunt Kayla.

I nodded. "Who is this investigator and what will he be doing?" I asked.

"His name is Connor and he is the best. In fact, he was pulled off another case to assist on this one. He is here to assist in the apprehension of Keir. He'll have to interview you, but you can trust him completely," replied Aunt Kayla with a smile. I noticed a sudden change in the tone of her voice.

I smiled. "Obviously you know him," I quipped with a smile.

"Yes, I've worked with him a few times," answered Aunt Kayla.

"That's not what I meant. You like him. It's so obvious that I don't even need my powers,' I said with a smile.

She smiled back. "Yes, I like him."

I was glad to see Aunt Kayla happy.

I arrived at the hospital and assumed my spot on the couch. At least I brought something to read this time. I'd had my fill of six-year-old magazines. I waited to find out Karen's status. After 20 minutes, a doctor came out and updated me on her situation.

"Karen has continued to grow stronger through the night. Her recovery is quite remarkable. She is breathing on her own now and has movement in all her limbs. Naturally, she is in a lot of pain and will have a long recovery. She was awake earlier, but is still very groggy. I think seeing a familiar face would be good for her."

I followed him into her room. I tried to prepare myself for the worst, but I was still shocked when I saw her. She had tubes and wires coming off her body. While she could breathe on her own, they had her on oxygen. Her eyes were closed and I quietly sat down near her bed.

I had to keep reminding myself that I had to be strong for her, and it took all my willpower not to start crying. The nurse came in and smiled at me as she recorded Karen's vitals. The nurse looked at me and nodded as she hung up the chart.

I sat quietly next to Karen. I began to chant again, at first to myself, but then I began to do it out loud. I wished I knew a real healing spell, like the one Aunt Kayla used on my leg. I reached over and gently took her hand in mine.

Time passed and the nurse returned and checked on Karen again.

"Your friend is quite a fighter. We almost lost her several times yesterday, but she always found a way to rebound," said the nurse softly.

"That doesn't surprise me. She is very brave," I replied. Braver than me, I thought to myself.

"Her breathing is getting stronger and so is her blood pressure. I think she'll make it," added the nurse.

"I don't see it any other way," I stated, as the nurse walked out.

I returned to my seat and started my blessing chant again. Maybe she could hear my voice and it would give her support.

I must have drifted off myself, because the opening of the door startled me. The doctor walked in and checked her chart.

"How's she doing?" I whispered.

"Improving. I am always appalled by the damage of bullets. It is amazing the amount of damage the human body can take and survive," he commented.

"With a lot of your help too," I added. "Thank you, for all your staff did to save her. She didn't deserve this."

He looked over at me and smiled. "You're welcome. By the way, I must admit that you are looking better than the last time I saw you."

"I don't think we've met," I answered. I looked at his nametag; it read Dr. Jason Gray. It didn't ring any bells.

"I doubt if you would remember me. I was in the ER when you came in from that car accident and I never forget a beautiful redhead!" he said smiling.

"Wow! Well then, I owe you another thank you," I replied. I felt myself blushing. He was good looking.

"I wasn't sure it was you at first. I am amazed you are up on that leg. We thought you might lose it," he commented

"I have a great physical therapist," I answered, rubbing my hand along my leg.

"I'm sure you do," he replied with a smile.

"Flirting with the doctor? I don't think Bill will like that," interrupted Karen in a weak soft voice.

I turned around to see her eyes barely open and a very slight smile on her face. I felt my emotions swelling and I had to hold them back. The last thing I wanted to do was burst out crying.

"Hey there, friend," I answered softly.

I walked over and took her hand in mine. Her grip was so weak.

The doctor smiled and asked her a few questions.

"How is Dan?" she asked.

I looked at the doctor. I didn't know if I should tell her the truth. He looked back and nodded and mouthed, "Be honest".

I looked back and before I could speak she nodded.

"Dan's dead isn't he? He shielded me and gave his life for me," spoke Karen, her voice was so soft.

"I know," I parroted.

"I knew you were here, Iona," she stated.

"Of course, I'd be here with you," I answered with a smile.

"No, you were with me the whole time. You comforted me and helped me fight," she said softly. "I could feel your presence the whole time."

"Hey, you are my best friend. I can't afford to lose you," I answered, fighting off my tears.

She closed her eyes and drifted back to sleep.

"That's a good sign," commented Dr. Gray. "I'm glad you were her when she woke up."

"And I'll be here when she wakes up again," I replied and I sat down next to her bed. I continued to hold her hand.

Karen drifted in and out of sleep for the next several hours. Actually, I lost all track of time.

Each time Karen woke up, she seemed a little stronger. I continued my chanting as I held her hand. I then sensed that Aunt Kayla had arrived with Fiona. The waiting area seemed to be at the limit of my range, even though I didn't think it was that far away. I concentrated and was able to determine that Bill and Sean were there too. I could then sense that Sean was getting closer. I pretended to act surprised when the nurse brought him in. I hugged him and he took my place by Karen's side. I walked out to the waiting area.

I saw Bill talking to Fiona. It just hit me that my boyfriend was talking to my mom! I didn't see Aunt Kayla and I sensed she was down the hall.

"Hi! I'm so glad to see you!" I announced as I entered.

Both Fiona and Bill got up to greet me. There was some momentary confusion and then laughter.

"We were just making small talk. I didn't know she was your mother. Although I should have guessed, you both have the same eyes!" Bill stated.

"Mom, this is Bill," I said, introducing them.

There was the usual round of hugs and kisses.

"How's Karen?" asked Bill.

"Improving. I think seeing Sean will help a lot. She really loves him," I replied.

"Kayla is getting some coffee with Conner," said Fiona.

I nodded. I was starting to feel very tired and craved sleep.

"You OK?" asked Fiona.

"Umm, yes. I am just really tired. You know how it is," I said.

Fiona nodded knowingly. "Kayla said that you stayed here all day yesterday."

"Not the whole day. They kicked us out around nine," I replied, fighting back a yawn.

"Let me take you home. You can't do anything else today," remarked Bill.

"I'm fine," I said.

Bill just rolled his eyes. "Has she always been so stubborn?" he asked Fiona.

"No, usually she is worse," answered Fiona, with a wicked smile on her face.

"OK, I get it. Let me see her one more time, after Sean leaves and then I'll give up and go home," I said, realizing that I was fighting a losing battle.

Aunt Kayla was approaching and within a few moments entered the room. Fiona noticed my sensory power and winked at me.

She introduced me to Connor. I could understand why she liked him. Connor was very handsome. Connor was 6-3, 185 lbs, with short dark brown hair and dark eyes. He looked a bit like a young Sean Connery and he had the same type of killer smile.

Connor was introduced as a private investigator working for Fiona. I let Fiona tell the "tale". She told Bill that she was working on a case that involved Nick. She went on to say how they suspected Nick was involved in several disappearances of young women and that they suspected that he was meeting his contact here in San Diego. Basically, it was a true story! She just left the magic parts out!

Bill asked Connor if the DA's office could be of assistance. Connor said he would like to see their files on Nick. Bill said he would see what he could do. Considering that the DA was one of us, I knew that Bill would get permission.

Sean came out and looked very relieved. I went back to Karen's room and I was amazed at how much better she looked.

"I take it seeing Sean was good medicine," I laughed as I took her hand.

"More than you can imagine," she answered in weak voice

"Your parents should be here soon. Their flight was delayed due to weather," I said.

"That's good," replied Karen, "Did they catch Nick?"

"He's dead. The police shot him as he tried to escape after trying to kidnap me," I answered.

"He's dead? Good," said Karen.

"Also, Tom was arrested for dealing drugs," I added. I figured she was entitled to the whole story.

"Things are looking up," yawned Karen.

"I'd better let you sleep. I will be back tomorrow," I announced.

"Thank you for being here," she replied. "I don't know how, but I know you were with me during the surgery."

I leaned over and kissed her on the forehead.

"See ya tomorrow," I said.

"I'm not going anywhere," she quipped and then she drifted back to sleep.

I walked out and found everyone talking to a middle aged couple. I knew in an instant that they were Karen's parents. Her father's name was Joe and her mother was named Judy. They were tired, but happy that Karen was improving.

We were introduced and hugged. Karen's mom went in first

"Karen has told us a lot about you, Iona," Mr. Miller stated. "She called and told us about your offer to help her pay her tuition. That is really nice."

"I meant it too. Karen is my best friend and I will do whatever it takes to help her," I replied. I was feeling more tired by the second.

"Your Aunt explained what happened. I just want you to know that we don't blame you for what happened, Iona," said Joe.

"Thanks," I said and I hugged him.

I looked at Aunt Kayla and yawned.

"Come on, my dear. I'd better get you home before you fall asleep right here," said Aunt Kayla.

I didn't argue and I mumbled my goodbyes. Bill walked out with us and kissed me goodnight. I was asleep before Aunt Kayla got into the car.

 

Part Three

 

I woke up the next morning feeling exhausted. I knew I had to get up, and I struggled to get going. My fatigue was showing more. I didn't look very good and felt tired throughout my entire body. I slowly showered and dressed and went downstairs. Aunt Kayla was already up and was eating breakfast with Fiona and Connor.

"Good morning, everyone," I mumbled.

"Iona, why don't you go back to bed?" suggested Aunt Kayla.

"I need to go over and see Karen. I can sleep later," I answered.

"Iona, obviously you have overused your powers. The only way to recover is to get some rest," added Fiona.

I smiled. "I'm not trying to be a martyr; I just need to see that Karen is doing OK and then I will rest."

"If you don't mind, I would like to ride over with you, Iona," asked Connor.

I knew that he wanted to ask me some questions. "Sure, sounds good."

I felt a bit better after I ate. I had never felt this kind of fatigue before.

As we drove to the hospital Connor asked me some basic questions. I noticed he didn't write anything down. I asked him about this.

"I have a phonographic memory. It helps in my line of work," he replied. "It must be difficult for you to have two sets of memories."

"It can be hard at times. I have to remember who I am talking to before I say something." I answered.

He smiled, "I must say that you pull it off nicely. I would have never guessed that you were a male," he stated almost matter of factly.

"I am adapting," I replied.

"How well can you call up Iona's original memories?" he asked.

"I can recall most things. Although I have no memories of Keir or whatever he is calling himself today," I remarked.

"Fiona told me of the protection spell incorporated in the tattoo. I would like to examine it, if you don't mind," he added.

"If it helps catch Keir; sure, I don't have a problem with that," I answered. Although it would be strange to have a man look at the tattoo, considering where it was.

"I promise to be discreet. I want to see if I can determine how old it is. Fiona said that Iona began to rebel right before her eighteenth birthday. If this is true, then there will be another charge against Keir," he remarked.

"I can remember having sex before my eighteenth birthday," I answered.

Connor glanced at me, "We can go over all this another time. I'm sorry, you are under enough stress as it is," he apologized.

"I don't mind. The sooner we catch Keir the better. He is the one responsible for my stress," I replied angrily.

"Good. I was hoping you were a fighter. I may need to ask you to do something dangerous. If Keir contacts you again, I want you to agree to meet him," he asked.

"So, I would be the bait?" I asked.

"That is one way of looking at it. I prefer to consider it as you helping me set up an ambush," replied Connor with a smile. "Seriously, it may be dangerous. Keir doesn't have any powers, but he is very intelligent. Don't rush into your answer."

"I WANT to do it," I said seriously.

"Back off Iona. This is being done to apprehend him, we are not executioners!" he stated firmly.

"I have every right to seek revenge against him. I will work within the rules, but I reserve the right to defend myself," I answered.

"Fair enough. But, I'd hate to have to bring you up on charges. You are already on thin ice for what you did to Nick. Although, I must admit it was done nicely," commented Connor.

"I wish I knew how I did that, so I can control it in the future. Aunt Kayla said that I act like a release and make people do what they thought about doing. Does that make sense?" I asked.

"Yes, it does. I've known a few other people with that power. It comes with a lot of responsibility, but you'll learn to control it; it just takes time," he reassured me.

We arrived at the hospital. Connor said that he would be back later, that he had to go check out some leads. I waved goodbye and walked to the waiting area.

I ran into Karen's parents. We hugged and they told me that Karen was continuing to improve.

"They are changing her dressings right now. She'll be glad to see you, Iona," Karen's mom informed me.

"Thanks …Mrs. Miller," I said in a tired voice. I couldn't bring myself to call her Judy.

"Are you OK, dear?" she asked.

"I'm just tired." I answered. I knew that I looked like crap.

"Please look after yourself, getting sick won't do Karen any good," added Mr. Miller.

I appreciated their concern. They seemed like really nice people, just like their daughter.

When I finally got to see Karen, she looked better. She smiled when she saw me.

"Good morning, friend," I said softly. I walked over and took her hand and sat down.

"I feel a lot better. I know I will make it now, and I owe a lot of it to you," replied Karen. Her voice was stronger. I could sense that she was going to make it.

"They must have you on some good drugs. I didn't do anything for you," I answered. I am the one who got you shot in the first place, I thought.

"Seriously, Iona. I don't know how to describe this, but I felt something while you were with me. I know I was asleep most of the time, but you did something to help me," she explained.

"OK, I won't argue with you. I am just glad you are doing better," I answered.

"I dreamed about our evening together. It made me feel good and gave me added drive to survive and do it again," she smiled. She then winked at me.

"Let's keep that to ourselves," I quipped.

"Deal," she said softly.

I stayed with her for several hours before Sean arrived. I told her I would be back the next day and she smiled and waved goodbye. As I walked, out I noticed that my tattoo barely went off. I also didn't feel as aroused.

I called Aunt Kayla and waited for her to pick me up. I had to fight to stay awake. I was relived to see her pull up.

I fought staying awake the whole way home. I also told her about my detection powers being weak.

"I'm not surprised. You are slowly draining yourself. This is why we don't go into medicine," explained Aunt Kayla. "If we try to heal everyone and we slowly lower our power levels and open ourselves up to illness. I want you to spend the rest of the day in bed. You need to recharge your powers."

"No argument here!" I yawned, as I fought off sleep. "I've never felt this sort of fatigue before in my life. No, that's not completely true. Iona once felt this way. I can sense it."

"Interesting," said Aunt Kayla.

I wanted to make it into the house under my own power for a change. I lost my battle with sleep, a half-mile from our house.

I spent the next several hours in a deep sleep. I got up to grab a bite to eat and then I went back to sleep. I repeated this several times over the rest of the day. I slept soundly the rest of night.

The following morning, I woke up feeling much better. I went downstairs and greeted Aunt Kayla and Fiona. I didn't see Connor.

"You look much better, Iona," said Fiona.

"Thanks, I feel better too," I said. The circles weren't as dark under my eyes.

Over breakfast, they told me how any mass or prolonged use of our powers would result in fatigue, making us very vulnerable. I told them about my memory of Iona once feeling like this.

"Do you think that's how Keir got control of Iona in the first place?" I asked. "I feel that she once was more fatigued than I feel now."

Fiona said that before she started to change, Iona was using her powers a lot as she expanded her powers. It was a possibility that Keir had influenced her while her powers were depleted.

"You'll need to be careful for the next few days, Iona. It will take you several days to get your powers back up to100 percent," warned Aunt Kayla.

I nodded.

After breakfast, I headed upstairs to check my e-mail. There were several from Jenny. She was concerned for me. I replied and told her that I would call later today.

I wrote Amelia and told her everything that had happened.

I then opened up Iona's e-mail. There were several messages from someone calling himself "DougBlack." Obviously it was Keir.

I opened up the first one and read it.

"Dearest Iona, I must apologize for Nick's bungled attempt to abduct you. I misjudged his eagerness to please me. In no way do I condone what he did. I want to see you again. You have been told many lies about me, and I need to set the story straight. I will be in contact with you soon. Love Keir."

I then opened the next one. It was a bit more interesting.

"Dearest Iona, I will be sending you a gift. Actually, I am returning something that you left with me the last time we were together. I will be in contact with you soon. I will give you pleasure you cannot imagine. I am curious as to why you have shied away from the life you so craved just a few months ago. Don't worry, Iona, it will soon be back to the way it used to be. Love Keir"

I cringed at the last line of his message. The last thing I wanted was to live the life that Iona had been living. I printed out copies of each and took them down to Fiona and Aunt Kayla.

"Connor will find these very interesting," said Fiona.

"I wonder what Keir is going to send you," pondered Aunt Kayla.

I wondered what it was myself.

 

Part Four

 

Connor talked to me for several hours about Keir and the tattoos. He showed me a similar protection tattoo on his back, which heightened his senses. He said it was very useful in his line of work. He said that he expected Keir to make his move in the next couple of days.

"I don't want to make the same mistake we made with Nick. I want this to end now," I stated.

"I understand," said Connor.

Both Aunt Kayla and Fiona were present when he examined my tattoo. My powers were returning to their full strength and so was my sense of arousal. I hadn't needed to use the silver wand the past few days, but that short vacation was about to end. I didn't feel as bad getting aroused this time, at least there was a man touching me and not just my aunt and mother, which had really creeped me out!

"He did a wonderful job on this. I see no way around his security spells," commented Connor.

"I'm glad you approve of his work," I laughed.

"Sorry, Iona. But from a strictly professional viewpoint, it is excellent work," he added.

 

"I guess I am stuck with it," I lamented.

"I might be able to find out how to reverse the effects with Keir's assistance," said Connor, offering some hope.

"Do you think he would cooperate?'" asked Fiona.

"I will "persuade" him to help," quipped Connor.

"I hope your methods are painful to him," I added.

"We aren't talking torture here, Iona," laughed Aunt Kayla.

"I know. A girl can wish can't she?" I joked.

"So, can you tell its age?" asked Fiona.

"I'd say around three years old. There's a possibility that Iona got it before she was 18," stated Connor.

I was allowed to dress, and then I went over to the hospital to see Karen. I was pleased to see that she was steadily improving and her status had been upgraded. I decided to let her body heal herself from now on. I had helped her through the worst and now it was up to her to finish the job. I needed to be fully recharged for Keir. I didn't want to be caught off guard like Iona had been the first time.

I stayed with her for several hours and it was good to see the old boisterous Karen slowly returning!

I got a phone call from Aunt Kayla, telling me that Fiona and Connor had been called away on an emergency, and she was driving them to the airport. I was sorry that I didn't get to see more of Fiona. I was also sad that Aunt Kayla didn't get more time with Connor.

Driving home, I began to think of Bill and how badly I wanted to go out with him. Maybe I should initiate a date. After all, he did promise me a night out. A night out, I could really use one right about now!

I arrived at the house and saw a large box sitting on the front step. It was addressed to me. The return address was from a local mailing company. I didn't feel any danger from the box. I picked it up and carried it inside. This had to have been from Keir. I debated what to do. I called Aunt Kayla and she said that Fiona and Connor had just left and that I should wait until she returned until I opened it up.

I sat there looking at the box. A strange feeling began to come over me concerning the box. It wasn't just curiosity, rather it was as if I was drawn to the box. I found I could fight it, but it was growing stronger. I also felt myself getting aroused. My nipples began to harden and I could feel myself getting wet. I felt like I did on the flight back with the original Iona. I found myself getting up and walking towards the box. I just had to see what was inside. What harm could there be in that?

End of Part XI

  

  

  

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