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Story Hour
"Here There Be Vampires" A Promise City, Arizona Story Hour
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<blockquote data-quote="orchid blossom" data-source="post: 2827870" data-attributes="member: 12815"><p><span style="font-size: 15px">Arrival in Boston</span></p><p></p><p>Kate took a deep breath and looked around. This room was as empty as always, but her eyes went right to the names Henry had carved into the floorboards. Despite the sadness lingering in her heart, she was excited to get inside the house.</p><p></p><p>“We’ll wait a moment just to get our heads settled before we go to the house. Are you alright?”</p><p></p><p>Conrad replies, “Ye...yes.” He finally releases both hers and Gonzales’s hands. He looks back at Kate and says, “You were right...it didn’t hurt at all.” Gonzales lets out a belly laugh upon hearing that and Conrad turns read with embarrassment. </p><p></p><p>Gonzales slaps him on the back and says, “Relax, you’re not the first person who I’ve seen have that reaction to unknown magic and you probably won’t be the last.” Conrad’s face returns to its normal hue. </p><p></p><p>Ginnie looks around at the animals and says, “Can we go inside please? I really don’t want to stay here with all of these horses and that stinky manure.” Conrad whispers to Kate, “Interesting kid for a rancher to have.”</p><p></p><p>“Admit it, Conrad. You’re thinking the same thing,” she teased.</p><p></p><p>“We can go now, Ginnie. I think we’ve all got our heads back on our shoulders.” Kate smoothed her grey skirts, picked up the bag that she had slung over her shoulder during the spell to free up her hands and led them outside into the courtyard.</p><p></p><p>The house was as imposing as always, and as always it didn’t seem to register to Kate just how large it was. What she did notice was the heavy black fabric draped above the door. She sighed and walked up to the front door to rap with the knocker.</p><p></p><p>The butler Mathias answers the door. A smile crosses his face and he says, “Ah, Miss. Katherine, it is good to see you again. Your father said that you were considering a visit here in late April, it is good to see that you’ve come.”</p><p></p><p>Kate took his hands and kissed his cheek. “I couldn’t stay away. I’m thankful that I can be here with my family during this sad time.”</p><p></p><p>She led the others inside and Mathias shut the door behind them. “You remember Ginnie and Mr. Gonzales,” Kate said, “And this is Mr. Booth.</p><p></p><p>Where is everyone? Are Henry and Phil here?”</p><p></p><p>Mathias says, “Oh yes, they are all in the parlor. They will be so happy to see you again, especially Henry, he was so upset about missing your previous visit.”</p><p></p><p>“I was sorry to miss him, too. Let’s not make him wait any longer.”</p><p></p><p>Kate put her bag down. “Just leave your things here, they’ll be taken care of. Let’s go, Mathias.” She took her teacher’s arm and followed Mathias through the rich foyer. They left the large, curving staircase behind them and approached the imposing doors on the left-hand side.</p><p></p><p>Mathias opened the doors and announced them. Kate managed to wait until he finished speaking before she walked in. “I understand you’ve been expecting me,” she smiled.</p><p></p><p>The entire Seagram family looks up, the somber expressions on their faces changing to smiles, as Kate’s father comes over and gives her a warm embrace.</p><p></p><p>“Oh, Papa,” she said kissing his cheek. She held on quietly for a moment, then whispered, “Thank you for suggesting I might be visiting, I didn’t know how...”</p><p></p><p>“Hush,” he interrupted gently. “I knew you’d come, my girl. I’d like to hear some more about your traveling methods this visit.” He squeezed a bit tighter. “I’m glad you’re here.”</p><p></p><p>“Me too, Papa.”</p><p></p><p>“Alright, enough of that,” a deep, resonant voice said as Kate was spun around into another set of arms. Her feet were suddenly dangling several inches above the floor. “Jacqueline,” Henry said, his voice suddenly choked. “We’ve missed you, little sister.”</p><p></p><p>“I missed you too. Where are your girls?”</p><p></p><p>Henry settled her back on her feet. She had to tilt her head up to look at her tall, dark-haired brother. He was broad like their father, and a couple inches taller. “Elaine and the girls are at home. If I’d known you were arriving I’d have brought them. I’ll have to send for them to come for dinner.” </p><p></p><p>His eyes looked down over her, noting her clothes. “How are you feeling, Jacqueline?”</p><p></p><p>She took his hand and squeezed it. “I’m getting along, Henry. Some days are better than others. We can talk about it later.”</p><p></p><p>Kate turned to her younger brother Phillip. He took after their mother, fair of skin and hair, and lanky, but still tall like their father. “Good to see you, Kitty,” he said, coming over to hug her in his turn. </p><p></p><p>“Must you call me that?” Kate asked in the a tone that suggested she’d asked it many times before.</p><p></p><p>“Yes, I think I must. When it stops making you crazy, I’ll stop saying it.”</p><p></p><p>She shook her head. “Are you ever going to grow up?”</p><p></p><p>“Not unless I absolutely have to.”</p><p></p><p>Kate took a few moments to greet her mother and the two spoke rapidly in French for several minutes. “Some of you haven’t met my friends,” Kate said after the greetings were finally over. “Ginnie Flahrety, my ward. Mr. Manuel Gonzales, and Mr. Conrad Booth.”</p><p></p><p>“Well of course, who else could he be with a face like that. You sir are the spitting image of your father,” Seagram states. He gives Conrad a warm firm handshake which Conrad returns. Conrad states, “Thank you sir. It is a pleasure to finally meet you. Katherine has told me so much about you.” </p><p></p><p>Seagram laughs “Has she now?” Conrad replies, “Yes sir, of your many admirable traits and open-mindedness and fairness to all. If more people shared those values the world would be a far better place. I thank you for imparting your daughter with those beliefs, which she has managed to spread throughout the entire community of Promise City, Arizona. It is a far richer place for her being there.”</p><p></p><p>A deep crimson blush crawled up Kate’s face. “If you call telling Mrs. King where to stick her narrow-minded morality...” Kate chuckled nervously and cleared her throat. </p><p></p><p>“Mr. Booth exaggerates. I do not have much influence in town, but I hope as a teacher I might do some good. And as part of the Merchant’s Association as well.”</p><p></p><p>Friedrich Seagram and his son Henry wore matching expressions, both taking a bit closer look at the son of the famous actor and the blush on Katherine’s cheeks. Kate fell back on manners and began to introduce her family. “My mother,” she said with a fond smile, “Amelie Seagram, you just met my father, Friedrich Seagram, and these are my brothers, Henry and Philip, the banes of my youth,” she teased.</p><p></p><p>The hand-shaking and hellos went on for a few minutes until they were all settled, Kate’s mother having sat next to Ginnie with her arm around her shoulder. While the others talked the lady asked her quietly, “Are you happy with my daughter, belle Ginnie?”</p><p></p><p>While her mother talked with Ginnie, Kate asked, “What happened to Mr. Emerson, Papa?”</p><p></p><p>“He caught pneumonia. He had gone for a walk without a hat and coat and caught ill. He hadn’t been in the best of health for a while.”</p><p></p><p>“He didn’t look very well the last time we were here, but I didn’t think.... He should have had someone with him, taking care of him. Which I’m sure he refused any offers of.” Kate was quiet as she pulled out her handkerchief. </p><p></p><p>She took a quivering breath. “I... When is the service tomorrow? Where is it being held?”</p><p></p><p>“Tomorrow in Concord. There will be a private service at 2:30 P.M. that we are invited to and then the more public service at 3:30 P.M.”</p><p></p><p>Kate nodded. She had kept herself together with thoughts of getting home and being with her family. It was a very effective way of avoiding the reason she was traveling.</p><p></p><p>In a moment her brother Henry was sitting beside her, tucking her against him. Her tears were quiet as he whispered into her ear, “I know Jacqueline.”</p><p></p><p>Friedrich Seagram cleared his throat and looked at his other guests. “Gentlemen, you’re welcome to come with us to the private service. I know you’ve had a long trip, we’ll get some rooms ready for you so you can refresh yourselves before dinner.”</p><p></p><p>Gonzales says, “Thank you sir, but I only met the man the one time and Mr. Booth never met him. Our inclusion at the private service would not be appropriate, that should be for the close friends of the deceased. The public service will suffice for us and Ginnie, although if space permits we would ask to sit near your family at that ceremony.”</p><p></p><p>Kate lifted her head from where it had been tucked against her brother’s shoulder. “Papa, I need my family too. I’ve been needing you, but I’ve been trying to.... I thought I needed to take care of myself.”</p><p></p><p>She unfolded herself from the seat and embraced her father. “We can talk about how foolish that was later,” she whispered.</p><p></p><p>They talked for a few more minutes until Mathias returned. He led Mr. Gonzales and Conrad to the well-appointed guest rooms. “You might see another gentleman in a little while. Mr. Tucker has the room at the end of the hall. Dinner is served at six o’clock. The library and music room are downstairs, and there is a door to the garden in the back of the house. Just ring and someone will help you find your way.”</p><p></p><p>I fear I have spent much of my time causing your daughter to worry. I have spent so much time being on my own that I find it very hard to think of myself as dependent on anyone else, although it is very nice not to sleep in the streets anymore.</p><p></p><p>Ginnie slips into a school book French “I also have had the leisure to study however my French still has much to be desired. It has been...umm ...amazing to be able to spend the time with as many books as I have had... access to, but I have had the time to make a grift...nno gift for you”. With that she pulls out 10 yards of very complicated fine lace dotted with tiny silver beads and turquoise stones the size of seed beads and switches back to English. “I hope you like it”.</p><p></p><p>The devil flashes in the young girl’s eyes as she catches Kate’s glance</p><p></p><p>“Oh and just so you know Ma’am Kate still can’t cook very well but she can boil water now... most days.” With a giggle she runs over to Kate and puts her arms around her. “can I check the libary before I head to bed?” the young girl’s face goes serious as she looks up at Kate “I think I want to reread some of the things he wrote before... if that’s alright with you”</p><p></p><p>“C’est magnifique, belle Ginnie. I could not buy finer anywhere. I shall be the envy of all others.</p><p></p><p>My daughter, she studies and forgets the fun. You will not let her forget, or forget yourself to put down the books and lace and enjoy, no?”</p><p></p><p>Kate put her arms around Ginnie in return, smiling. “There is still dinner, but that will be boring and formal, so as long as you promise to eat something you can stay in the library all evening if you like.” She leaned down and kissed her forehead with an understanding glance.</p><p></p><p>“And I can cook eggs three ways at least and fry bacon without burning it more than once every three days thank you very much!”</p><p></p><p>Kate stayed in the parlor with her family. Although she felt comfortable saying anything in front of her teacher and Conrad, to the others they were still strangers. </p><p></p><p>Henry was still sitting on the sofa so Kate walked back over and sat down. Her brother took her hand. “How are you really?”</p><p></p><p>“I’m alright. It’s been difficult; Arizona is a very different place. It feels like I’ve had two completely separate lives. But it’s good to be home.” Kate looked down for a moment. “I don’t want to embarrass you, so if you would prefer I wear black while I’m here, I will. But you all know Tom didn’t like it, and in the West three months is the accepted length for formal mourning.”</p><p></p><p>“Katherine, we’re not going to second guess your decisions,” her father said. “And in case you’ve forgotten, we’ve bent the rules of society before on more than one occasion. Let the gossips wag their tongues, it doesn’t matter.”</p><p></p><p>Kate nodded. “There’s so much to tell all of you about Arizona....” she began. For the next two hours she sat in the parlor, telling a version of her life in Arizona that didn’t involve magic. She was as honest as she could be, telling about how they got on the wrong side of the Cowboy Gang and her trouble with the Earps. They already knew from Mr. Tucker about Tom’s death and Morgan Earp.</p><p></p><p>Between her stories were stories of what had happened in her families lives while she had been gone. When there was about an hour left before dinner, she went up to her own room to dress. Her closet still held the clothes she hadn’t brought to Arizona. They were to have been sold, but her mother said there was no one to buy them. Those who wanted fancy clothes didn’t buy them second hand.</p><p></p><p>She pulled out what had been a favorite dinner dress of hers in a beautiful buttery yellow. It sat off the shoulders, fitted slimly around her waist, and fell in simple, full lines to the floor. As she fastened it, she noticed it was a little more snug than it used to be on top, and showed a more generous portion of her bust than in the old days. Her waist hadn’t started to thicken yet, but her bust seemed determined to get a head start on it.</p><p></p><p>On her vanity still sat the box of jewelry she’d left. It too wasn’t emptied despite the fact that jewelry could easily have been sold. She slipped on a necklace of set, clear stones and the matching earrings. A maid came up and rearranged her hair. It hadn’t been done this fancy since she’d left Boston, with the exception of Mr. Gonzales spell. She spent a moment wondering if Conrad would notice, then went down to dinner.</p><p></p><p>The family is served an excellent six-course meal. Despite getting their share of regular home-cooked meals at the El Parador Gonzales, Conrad and Ginnie all seem to enjoy rather generous portions of the food, which Conrad compliments several times.</p><p></p><p>Phillip brings up reading an account of Billy the Kid’s death, which specifically mentioned the death occurring in Conrad Booth’s house, and asks for more details. Conrad says, “Well, that is hardly an appropriate tale for dinner conversation, but if you remind me at a later time during our stay here young man I will tell you the story.” </p><p></p><p>Phillip nods and asks, “Are you a member of Arcade’s Gang?” Before Conrad can answer Gonzales laughs and says, “No young man, he is not. But they are close personal friends of both Mr. Booth and myself. Not long ago I even accompanied them into a battle against an invading French Army. Why don’t we plan to spend some time together on Monday and I’ll tell you all about it.”</p><p></p><p>“I’ll look forward to that,” Phillip said brightly. “Kitty, have you met them?”</p><p></p><p>Kate shook her head no. “They used to live at the El Parador, where I lived. But they were gone on a long trip when I arrived and when they returned they bought a house to share instead of living in the hotel. I think I saw them there once, but I was so exhausted that night I just went straight to bed. Since we share so many friends in common I’m bound to meet them someday.”</p><p></p><p>She went back to her dinner, eating each course with a healthy appetite. She had been a light eater at the best of times, and glances from her family showed they noticed the improvement in her appetite. </p><p></p><p>It was a pleasure to hear Conrad relax and talk with the others. He had once feared the rejection of these people because of who he was and Kate was never sure she had convinced him otherwise. But no one stood up to this family for long. She couldn’t help smiling at his easy manner and happiness shone on her face when their eyes met across the table, a fact also noted by some of the more observant at that table.</p><p></p><p>The final two people for dinner arrive late and apologize for the interruption as they take their seats. Mr. Seagram introduces the two as Colby Tucker and his mentor, Professor Edward Charles Pickering, the Director of the Harvard Observatory. Both are wearing black armbands. The four arrivals from Arizona have never met Pickering before, although Katherine recalls her father speaking of him on several occasions, so Seagram introduces them as well.</p><p></p><p>After everyone was settled Kate said, “Professor Pickering, I must thank you for taking such an interest in Mr. Tucker. I had no idea when I put him on the train to Boston that he would meet with so much generosity. Or show such aptitude for study.”</p><p></p><p>She smiled across the table at her husband’s friend. “How are you doing with your studies, Mr. Tucker?”</p><p></p><p>Colby replies, “Very well Mrs. Kale, Boston Latin High School is excellent and with my various tutors I have managed to catch up with the other students. Professor Pickering says that my acceptance into Harvard for the fall is all but certain provided I can graduate by summer.”</p><p></p><p>Pickering adds, “It helps to have a goal in mind, as young Mr. Tucker does. He wishes to spend his days and nights at the lens of our telescope. I am somewhat envious of you though Mrs. Kale, as the wide open skies and more southern location of Arizona make for far better observations of the night sky than the often cloudy skies of here.”</p><p></p><p>Tucker adds, “I miss it sometimes myself. I am not looking forward to enduring an entire winter here.”</p><p></p><p>“Ah, but you’ll find that you’ll greet the arrival of spring as you never have before. I missed winter in Arizona. It got colder, certainly, but it’s hard to tell one season from another and sometimes it makes it feel as if time is not passing.</p><p></p><p>You’re always welcome to visit,” Kate said to Pickering, “Although I imagine trying to bring a telescope would be no small task. The night sky is beautiful there, and it seldom rains. Something else I miss.</p><p></p><p>I hope to see my family there someday soon as well. I want you all to see where I live. Although it is quite different from this beautiful house, I’m happy there.”</p><p></p><p>The dinner continued on pleasantly with the strangers getting to know one another. Talk eventually turned to their recently departed friend, and while the mood became more somber those who had known him shared their happy memories and reflected on a life well-lived.</p><p></p><p>After the dessert course was cleared, the group retired to the parlor to continue talking. In most homes, the ladies would have been banished to their own activities, but here they all stayed together until Friedrich Seagram and Henry began packing their pipes to smoke. At that point Kate, her mother, and Henry’s wife Elaine retired to the music room where Kate played for them. Conrad had looked just a bit afraid to be left alone with her male relations so Kate gave him a reassuring smile as she left the room.</p><p></p><p>Eventually Kate found herself sitting at her vanity with her eyes closed as her mother brushed her hair. “So Jaqueline, this Monsieur Booth he is handsome, no?”</p><p></p><p>Kate laughed softly. “Yes, very handsome. He has been very kind to Ginnie and I. I’ve made many friends in Arizona who take good care of me.”</p><p></p><p>“Of course. But you did not bring them with you.” The brush continued pulling down through her hair. “I did not think your hair could get thicker, but I believe it has.”</p><p></p><p>“Maman...” Kate stopped. It had never been any good trying to lie to her mother. “Am I horrible, Maman?”</p><p></p><p>Amelie came around in front of her daughter. “No, Jacqueline, you are not horrible. We do not control when the people we can care for enter our lives. Your father would say the gods keep their own timetable and care little for ours.”</p><p></p><p>Kate nodded. “He would be right.”</p><p></p><p>“When I met your Papa, I had lost a lover only a few months before. We were not engaged, but everyone expected it soon. It was a shock to everyone when I married Friedrich. I felt very much as I think you do now, but your Papa was going back to the United States and I did not have the luxury of time.”</p><p></p><p>Amelie tucked a lock of hair behind her daughter’s ear. “I think sometimes that I had to find love again soon before I hardened my heart against it forever. You are like me more than you know. When you are hurt you close up like a delicate flower in the cold. Perhaps Monsieur Booth can bring warmth again before your season passes.” She went behind again and began to braid the long tresses. “And there are worse things than a handsome lover, no?”</p><p></p><p>“There are worse things,” Kate agreed. She sat quietly as her mother finished the braid and kissed her cheek. As the older woman left she turned and said, “Rappelez-vous Jacqueline, ce qui est la vie sans amour?” With that she left her daughter to sleep.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="orchid blossom, post: 2827870, member: 12815"] [SIZE=4]Arrival in Boston[/SIZE] Kate took a deep breath and looked around. This room was as empty as always, but her eyes went right to the names Henry had carved into the floorboards. Despite the sadness lingering in her heart, she was excited to get inside the house. “We’ll wait a moment just to get our heads settled before we go to the house. Are you alright?” Conrad replies, “Ye...yes.” He finally releases both hers and Gonzales’s hands. He looks back at Kate and says, “You were right...it didn’t hurt at all.” Gonzales lets out a belly laugh upon hearing that and Conrad turns read with embarrassment. Gonzales slaps him on the back and says, “Relax, you’re not the first person who I’ve seen have that reaction to unknown magic and you probably won’t be the last.” Conrad’s face returns to its normal hue. Ginnie looks around at the animals and says, “Can we go inside please? I really don’t want to stay here with all of these horses and that stinky manure.” Conrad whispers to Kate, “Interesting kid for a rancher to have.” “Admit it, Conrad. You’re thinking the same thing,” she teased. “We can go now, Ginnie. I think we’ve all got our heads back on our shoulders.” Kate smoothed her grey skirts, picked up the bag that she had slung over her shoulder during the spell to free up her hands and led them outside into the courtyard. The house was as imposing as always, and as always it didn’t seem to register to Kate just how large it was. What she did notice was the heavy black fabric draped above the door. She sighed and walked up to the front door to rap with the knocker. The butler Mathias answers the door. A smile crosses his face and he says, “Ah, Miss. Katherine, it is good to see you again. Your father said that you were considering a visit here in late April, it is good to see that you’ve come.” Kate took his hands and kissed his cheek. “I couldn’t stay away. I’m thankful that I can be here with my family during this sad time.” She led the others inside and Mathias shut the door behind them. “You remember Ginnie and Mr. Gonzales,” Kate said, “And this is Mr. Booth. Where is everyone? Are Henry and Phil here?” Mathias says, “Oh yes, they are all in the parlor. They will be so happy to see you again, especially Henry, he was so upset about missing your previous visit.” “I was sorry to miss him, too. Let’s not make him wait any longer.” Kate put her bag down. “Just leave your things here, they’ll be taken care of. Let’s go, Mathias.” She took her teacher’s arm and followed Mathias through the rich foyer. They left the large, curving staircase behind them and approached the imposing doors on the left-hand side. Mathias opened the doors and announced them. Kate managed to wait until he finished speaking before she walked in. “I understand you’ve been expecting me,” she smiled. The entire Seagram family looks up, the somber expressions on their faces changing to smiles, as Kate’s father comes over and gives her a warm embrace. “Oh, Papa,” she said kissing his cheek. She held on quietly for a moment, then whispered, “Thank you for suggesting I might be visiting, I didn’t know how...” “Hush,” he interrupted gently. “I knew you’d come, my girl. I’d like to hear some more about your traveling methods this visit.” He squeezed a bit tighter. “I’m glad you’re here.” “Me too, Papa.” “Alright, enough of that,” a deep, resonant voice said as Kate was spun around into another set of arms. Her feet were suddenly dangling several inches above the floor. “Jacqueline,” Henry said, his voice suddenly choked. “We’ve missed you, little sister.” “I missed you too. Where are your girls?” Henry settled her back on her feet. She had to tilt her head up to look at her tall, dark-haired brother. He was broad like their father, and a couple inches taller. “Elaine and the girls are at home. If I’d known you were arriving I’d have brought them. I’ll have to send for them to come for dinner.” His eyes looked down over her, noting her clothes. “How are you feeling, Jacqueline?” She took his hand and squeezed it. “I’m getting along, Henry. Some days are better than others. We can talk about it later.” Kate turned to her younger brother Phillip. He took after their mother, fair of skin and hair, and lanky, but still tall like their father. “Good to see you, Kitty,” he said, coming over to hug her in his turn. “Must you call me that?” Kate asked in the a tone that suggested she’d asked it many times before. “Yes, I think I must. When it stops making you crazy, I’ll stop saying it.” She shook her head. “Are you ever going to grow up?” “Not unless I absolutely have to.” Kate took a few moments to greet her mother and the two spoke rapidly in French for several minutes. “Some of you haven’t met my friends,” Kate said after the greetings were finally over. “Ginnie Flahrety, my ward. Mr. Manuel Gonzales, and Mr. Conrad Booth.” “Well of course, who else could he be with a face like that. You sir are the spitting image of your father,” Seagram states. He gives Conrad a warm firm handshake which Conrad returns. Conrad states, “Thank you sir. It is a pleasure to finally meet you. Katherine has told me so much about you.” Seagram laughs “Has she now?” Conrad replies, “Yes sir, of your many admirable traits and open-mindedness and fairness to all. If more people shared those values the world would be a far better place. I thank you for imparting your daughter with those beliefs, which she has managed to spread throughout the entire community of Promise City, Arizona. It is a far richer place for her being there.” A deep crimson blush crawled up Kate’s face. “If you call telling Mrs. King where to stick her narrow-minded morality...” Kate chuckled nervously and cleared her throat. “Mr. Booth exaggerates. I do not have much influence in town, but I hope as a teacher I might do some good. And as part of the Merchant’s Association as well.” Friedrich Seagram and his son Henry wore matching expressions, both taking a bit closer look at the son of the famous actor and the blush on Katherine’s cheeks. Kate fell back on manners and began to introduce her family. “My mother,” she said with a fond smile, “Amelie Seagram, you just met my father, Friedrich Seagram, and these are my brothers, Henry and Philip, the banes of my youth,” she teased. The hand-shaking and hellos went on for a few minutes until they were all settled, Kate’s mother having sat next to Ginnie with her arm around her shoulder. While the others talked the lady asked her quietly, “Are you happy with my daughter, belle Ginnie?” While her mother talked with Ginnie, Kate asked, “What happened to Mr. Emerson, Papa?” “He caught pneumonia. He had gone for a walk without a hat and coat and caught ill. He hadn’t been in the best of health for a while.” “He didn’t look very well the last time we were here, but I didn’t think.... He should have had someone with him, taking care of him. Which I’m sure he refused any offers of.” Kate was quiet as she pulled out her handkerchief. She took a quivering breath. “I... When is the service tomorrow? Where is it being held?” “Tomorrow in Concord. There will be a private service at 2:30 P.M. that we are invited to and then the more public service at 3:30 P.M.” Kate nodded. She had kept herself together with thoughts of getting home and being with her family. It was a very effective way of avoiding the reason she was traveling. In a moment her brother Henry was sitting beside her, tucking her against him. Her tears were quiet as he whispered into her ear, “I know Jacqueline.” Friedrich Seagram cleared his throat and looked at his other guests. “Gentlemen, you’re welcome to come with us to the private service. I know you’ve had a long trip, we’ll get some rooms ready for you so you can refresh yourselves before dinner.” Gonzales says, “Thank you sir, but I only met the man the one time and Mr. Booth never met him. Our inclusion at the private service would not be appropriate, that should be for the close friends of the deceased. The public service will suffice for us and Ginnie, although if space permits we would ask to sit near your family at that ceremony.” Kate lifted her head from where it had been tucked against her brother’s shoulder. “Papa, I need my family too. I’ve been needing you, but I’ve been trying to.... I thought I needed to take care of myself.” She unfolded herself from the seat and embraced her father. “We can talk about how foolish that was later,” she whispered. They talked for a few more minutes until Mathias returned. He led Mr. Gonzales and Conrad to the well-appointed guest rooms. “You might see another gentleman in a little while. Mr. Tucker has the room at the end of the hall. Dinner is served at six o’clock. The library and music room are downstairs, and there is a door to the garden in the back of the house. Just ring and someone will help you find your way.” I fear I have spent much of my time causing your daughter to worry. I have spent so much time being on my own that I find it very hard to think of myself as dependent on anyone else, although it is very nice not to sleep in the streets anymore. Ginnie slips into a school book French “I also have had the leisure to study however my French still has much to be desired. It has been...umm ...amazing to be able to spend the time with as many books as I have had... access to, but I have had the time to make a grift...nno gift for you”. With that she pulls out 10 yards of very complicated fine lace dotted with tiny silver beads and turquoise stones the size of seed beads and switches back to English. “I hope you like it”. The devil flashes in the young girl’s eyes as she catches Kate’s glance “Oh and just so you know Ma’am Kate still can’t cook very well but she can boil water now... most days.” With a giggle she runs over to Kate and puts her arms around her. “can I check the libary before I head to bed?” the young girl’s face goes serious as she looks up at Kate “I think I want to reread some of the things he wrote before... if that’s alright with you” “C’est magnifique, belle Ginnie. I could not buy finer anywhere. I shall be the envy of all others. My daughter, she studies and forgets the fun. You will not let her forget, or forget yourself to put down the books and lace and enjoy, no?” Kate put her arms around Ginnie in return, smiling. “There is still dinner, but that will be boring and formal, so as long as you promise to eat something you can stay in the library all evening if you like.” She leaned down and kissed her forehead with an understanding glance. “And I can cook eggs three ways at least and fry bacon without burning it more than once every three days thank you very much!” Kate stayed in the parlor with her family. Although she felt comfortable saying anything in front of her teacher and Conrad, to the others they were still strangers. Henry was still sitting on the sofa so Kate walked back over and sat down. Her brother took her hand. “How are you really?” “I’m alright. It’s been difficult; Arizona is a very different place. It feels like I’ve had two completely separate lives. But it’s good to be home.” Kate looked down for a moment. “I don’t want to embarrass you, so if you would prefer I wear black while I’m here, I will. But you all know Tom didn’t like it, and in the West three months is the accepted length for formal mourning.” “Katherine, we’re not going to second guess your decisions,” her father said. “And in case you’ve forgotten, we’ve bent the rules of society before on more than one occasion. Let the gossips wag their tongues, it doesn’t matter.” Kate nodded. “There’s so much to tell all of you about Arizona....” she began. For the next two hours she sat in the parlor, telling a version of her life in Arizona that didn’t involve magic. She was as honest as she could be, telling about how they got on the wrong side of the Cowboy Gang and her trouble with the Earps. They already knew from Mr. Tucker about Tom’s death and Morgan Earp. Between her stories were stories of what had happened in her families lives while she had been gone. When there was about an hour left before dinner, she went up to her own room to dress. Her closet still held the clothes she hadn’t brought to Arizona. They were to have been sold, but her mother said there was no one to buy them. Those who wanted fancy clothes didn’t buy them second hand. She pulled out what had been a favorite dinner dress of hers in a beautiful buttery yellow. It sat off the shoulders, fitted slimly around her waist, and fell in simple, full lines to the floor. As she fastened it, she noticed it was a little more snug than it used to be on top, and showed a more generous portion of her bust than in the old days. Her waist hadn’t started to thicken yet, but her bust seemed determined to get a head start on it. On her vanity still sat the box of jewelry she’d left. It too wasn’t emptied despite the fact that jewelry could easily have been sold. She slipped on a necklace of set, clear stones and the matching earrings. A maid came up and rearranged her hair. It hadn’t been done this fancy since she’d left Boston, with the exception of Mr. Gonzales spell. She spent a moment wondering if Conrad would notice, then went down to dinner. The family is served an excellent six-course meal. Despite getting their share of regular home-cooked meals at the El Parador Gonzales, Conrad and Ginnie all seem to enjoy rather generous portions of the food, which Conrad compliments several times. Phillip brings up reading an account of Billy the Kid’s death, which specifically mentioned the death occurring in Conrad Booth’s house, and asks for more details. Conrad says, “Well, that is hardly an appropriate tale for dinner conversation, but if you remind me at a later time during our stay here young man I will tell you the story.” Phillip nods and asks, “Are you a member of Arcade’s Gang?” Before Conrad can answer Gonzales laughs and says, “No young man, he is not. But they are close personal friends of both Mr. Booth and myself. Not long ago I even accompanied them into a battle against an invading French Army. Why don’t we plan to spend some time together on Monday and I’ll tell you all about it.” “I’ll look forward to that,” Phillip said brightly. “Kitty, have you met them?” Kate shook her head no. “They used to live at the El Parador, where I lived. But they were gone on a long trip when I arrived and when they returned they bought a house to share instead of living in the hotel. I think I saw them there once, but I was so exhausted that night I just went straight to bed. Since we share so many friends in common I’m bound to meet them someday.” She went back to her dinner, eating each course with a healthy appetite. She had been a light eater at the best of times, and glances from her family showed they noticed the improvement in her appetite. It was a pleasure to hear Conrad relax and talk with the others. He had once feared the rejection of these people because of who he was and Kate was never sure she had convinced him otherwise. But no one stood up to this family for long. She couldn’t help smiling at his easy manner and happiness shone on her face when their eyes met across the table, a fact also noted by some of the more observant at that table. The final two people for dinner arrive late and apologize for the interruption as they take their seats. Mr. Seagram introduces the two as Colby Tucker and his mentor, Professor Edward Charles Pickering, the Director of the Harvard Observatory. Both are wearing black armbands. The four arrivals from Arizona have never met Pickering before, although Katherine recalls her father speaking of him on several occasions, so Seagram introduces them as well. After everyone was settled Kate said, “Professor Pickering, I must thank you for taking such an interest in Mr. Tucker. I had no idea when I put him on the train to Boston that he would meet with so much generosity. Or show such aptitude for study.” She smiled across the table at her husband’s friend. “How are you doing with your studies, Mr. Tucker?” Colby replies, “Very well Mrs. Kale, Boston Latin High School is excellent and with my various tutors I have managed to catch up with the other students. Professor Pickering says that my acceptance into Harvard for the fall is all but certain provided I can graduate by summer.” Pickering adds, “It helps to have a goal in mind, as young Mr. Tucker does. He wishes to spend his days and nights at the lens of our telescope. I am somewhat envious of you though Mrs. Kale, as the wide open skies and more southern location of Arizona make for far better observations of the night sky than the often cloudy skies of here.” Tucker adds, “I miss it sometimes myself. I am not looking forward to enduring an entire winter here.” “Ah, but you’ll find that you’ll greet the arrival of spring as you never have before. I missed winter in Arizona. It got colder, certainly, but it’s hard to tell one season from another and sometimes it makes it feel as if time is not passing. You’re always welcome to visit,” Kate said to Pickering, “Although I imagine trying to bring a telescope would be no small task. The night sky is beautiful there, and it seldom rains. Something else I miss. I hope to see my family there someday soon as well. I want you all to see where I live. Although it is quite different from this beautiful house, I’m happy there.” The dinner continued on pleasantly with the strangers getting to know one another. Talk eventually turned to their recently departed friend, and while the mood became more somber those who had known him shared their happy memories and reflected on a life well-lived. After the dessert course was cleared, the group retired to the parlor to continue talking. In most homes, the ladies would have been banished to their own activities, but here they all stayed together until Friedrich Seagram and Henry began packing their pipes to smoke. At that point Kate, her mother, and Henry’s wife Elaine retired to the music room where Kate played for them. Conrad had looked just a bit afraid to be left alone with her male relations so Kate gave him a reassuring smile as she left the room. Eventually Kate found herself sitting at her vanity with her eyes closed as her mother brushed her hair. “So Jaqueline, this Monsieur Booth he is handsome, no?” Kate laughed softly. “Yes, very handsome. He has been very kind to Ginnie and I. I’ve made many friends in Arizona who take good care of me.” “Of course. But you did not bring them with you.” The brush continued pulling down through her hair. “I did not think your hair could get thicker, but I believe it has.” “Maman...” Kate stopped. It had never been any good trying to lie to her mother. “Am I horrible, Maman?” Amelie came around in front of her daughter. “No, Jacqueline, you are not horrible. We do not control when the people we can care for enter our lives. Your father would say the gods keep their own timetable and care little for ours.” Kate nodded. “He would be right.” “When I met your Papa, I had lost a lover only a few months before. We were not engaged, but everyone expected it soon. It was a shock to everyone when I married Friedrich. I felt very much as I think you do now, but your Papa was going back to the United States and I did not have the luxury of time.” Amelie tucked a lock of hair behind her daughter’s ear. “I think sometimes that I had to find love again soon before I hardened my heart against it forever. You are like me more than you know. When you are hurt you close up like a delicate flower in the cold. Perhaps Monsieur Booth can bring warmth again before your season passes.” She went behind again and began to braid the long tresses. “And there are worse things than a handsome lover, no?” “There are worse things,” Kate agreed. She sat quietly as her mother finished the braid and kissed her cheek. As the older woman left she turned and said, “Rappelez-vous Jacqueline, ce qui est la vie sans amour?” With that she left her daughter to sleep. [/QUOTE]
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"Here There Be Vampires" A Promise City, Arizona Story Hour
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