I don't own these characters, just borrowed them. You may want to see this film before reading this long short story but it isn't necessary to understand what's going on...
As the tan sedan drove along the tree dense road toward the campus of Perkins Girls College, Victoria Moller-Oakley felt her anxiety creep along her legs and settle into her stomach as she sat in the back seat talking with her nephews, Jacob and Francis.
Jacob, at twelve years old, was excited about starting school while his younger brother Francis was obsessed with all the different rocks he would find there.
Victoria listened intently as she learned the difference between igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks as lectured by eight years old Francis.
Victoria's sister, Allison Moller-Hollander shot a quick glance of concern at her older sister in the rearview mirror before returning her watchful gaze to the road ahead.
Allison was surprised that Victoria agreed to come with her to the Perkins School for Girls, for her welcoming ceremony as a new hire head mistress of the exclusive, private preparatory school.
Allison knew the main reason Victoria consented to accompany her was to attend the memorial service for a beloved teacher, Elizabeth Bannet, who died in her sleep a week ago. Otherwise Victoria would never set foot on the campus of Perkins. There were too many ghosts there which haunted Victoria most of her adult life.
Victoria suffered chronic depression nourished by a cold loveless marriage that ended in an anemic divorce. She went back to school to become a surgical nurse to support herself. The only thing that didn't change was the unhappiness that was always at the foundation of her smiles that never seemed to reach her eyes.
Allison often worried about the mental state of her sister. She could never forget the year Tori had to be hospitalized for a nervous breakdown.
The year was 1976. Victoria missed her graduation ceremony because she was admitted to Crestfell Memorial Hospital for psychiatric observation after having witnessed a disturbed student commit suicide during a school soccer match on the campus of Perkins.
Many of the students were horribly affected but no one more than Victoria - she remained in a catatonic state for a year before being drawn out of herself and back into the world through therapy.
Allison often wondered if the quality care Victoria received at Crestfell opened her mind to the idea of a career in medicine.
After Victoria's divorce from a 12 year marriage, she locked herself away in her work as a surgical nurse and the Tudor home she once shared with her ex-husband, Daniel.
Allison didn't want to subject Tori, the nickname she called her sister, to those haunting memories of prep school but her husband Jake couldn't attend the memorial nor her welcoming ceremony due to a weekend long political rally he had to attend.
Jake convinced Allison that Victoria's emotional state would probably benefit by her going back to Perkins a few nights before.
- - -
Jake: Sorry love - but the rally is that weekend.
Allison: It'll be just me and the boys then.
Jake reentered the bedroom wearing boxer shorts and a white tee shirt. He nodded then kissed her on the top of her head. They both settled into bed. Jake grabbed some envelopes from the night stand and leafed through them.
Allison: Jake give it a rest - sort it out in the morning.
Jake: All right… you know… you should take Tori with you.
Allison: Victoria! My sister?
Jake: It's probably what she needs…
Allison: I'm not going to subject her to… that! She's just getting her life back.
Jake: Tori has been alone for quite some time and she still seems not all there to me.
Allison: Excuse me if I want to have a sister who at least I can communicate with!
Jake: I'm not thinking of throwing her to the wolves but she needs to move on - it wasn't her fault.
Allison: I know… it was mine.
Jake: We didn't know that weirdo was gonna do that!
Allison: Jake please she wasn't weird, just different - and I'm beginning to think that Tori was the same.
Jake: Are you kidding me? Tori would never be like that! You forgot we dated each other back then, I would know.
Pause.
Jake: Besides normal people don't stab you when you have disagreements.
Allison: What are you talking about?
Jake: That scar on my right thigh, remember that?
Allison: You said it was an old rugby injury.
Jake: Would you have married me if I said the nutter stabbed me instead?
Allison: She stabbed you?
Jake: Yeah she did. She challenged me to a dual and didn't that devil give me the fight of my life. I laid on the ground, my sword kicked away from my hand, thinking she was gonna run me through with that blade. I think at the last minute she moved her stroke to my thigh and not my heart which was trembling under the tip of her sword.
Allison: Jake you can't be serious!
Jake: I remember it all - I pee'ed in my shorts that afternoon. Mouse she saw it, she was there... so was those two guys I used to hang with. Funny how I can't remember their names now. We stopped hanging out after that day.
Allison: It's understandable - you were graduating. You all went in different directions.
Jake: Yeah but we were close, those guys and me.
Allison: A lot of things died that day.
Jake kissed his wife fondly and turned out the lamp on the night table.
In the night, embraced by his wife Jake considered the irony that such a horrible day began a series of events which brought Allison into his life.
He sat in the hospital with his thigh cleaned and bandaged. Not listening to his mother who demanded that he bring up assault changes against the crazy who did this to him.
Jake's father shut her up by relating the news that the aforementioned crazy had jumped to her death soon after the dual in the forest. At the time Jake didn't understand why she did that, she won the dual and could have bragged about it to everyone.
Jake's hatred of the girl who committed suicide dissipated like air out of a flat tire when he heard about her death. He couldn't wrap his mind around it. Why did she do that? Women were strange to him. Guys wouldn't off themselves after a victory.
When he heard about Tori and her sickness after seeing it happen he felt very uncomfortable about going to see her. Victoria no longer communicated with anybody. She just sat in a catatonic state not knowing or caring what was going on around her. There was no physical reason for her sickness.
Getting stabbed for Tori's honor was one thing but seeing her like that, so unresponsive, made him feel powerless. So he delayed visiting Tori until almost six months later, he saw Allison, Tori's younger sister, sitting outside the hospital cafe crying.
Jake remembered Allison's baby face and silly girly ways when he briefly dated Victoria but in that moment she seemed so lost and helpless and he needed to comfort her.
And so he did.
When he started dating Allison he felt strange visiting with Tori since they hadn't actually broken up - she just went away from everything mentally. He felt justified after awhile that she sorta dumped him. He supposed catatonia was a unique way to break a relationship.
Two years later when he proposed to Allison, Tori already out of her catatonic state and was happy if he made her sister happy - so he was right, she did dump him. Jake was so relieved that Tori was on the mend that his ego didn't even get bent out of shape over that realization.
Jake was glad five years later when Tori met his friend Daniel and they started dating. Jake enjoyed their wedding. The music was great. The food was wonderful. Alcohol flowed freely making all relaxed and happy.
Tori looked beautiful in her gown. Daniel was a lucky man that day but to Jake's eyes his bride, Allison was the most beautiful woman there. Everyone had a great time.
Jake recalled before nodding off to sleep - that the only person who didn't seem to enjoy that day was the bride - Tori.
Standing close to her sister's car, Victoria looked over the grounds with an uneasy eye. There were numerous improvements to the campus. The soccer field no longer was next to the main building where classes were held. There was a large green house there instead. The differences settled her nerves at bit.
She felt the gentle hand of her younger sister on her shoulder. Victoria turned into the touch and smiled at her sister. Victoria noticed that there weren't many students milling about the grounds.
Allison: Many of the students are off campus today for offsite curriculum prep and another group are at an away game for the soccer team. They will all return this weekend for the welcoming ceremony and the memorial service. They added horticulture and sustainability to the curriculum, so the soccer field has been moved to the south campus. The main building ahead only houses classrooms, the main dining hall, and administrative offices.
Victoria's eyes tracked to the fifth floor windows where she shared rooms with Mouse and… She blinked her eyes rapidly to stop the tears brewing under her eyelids. Allison watched her sister intensely trying to gage her thoughts and feelings.
Allison: The upperclassmen are no longer are housed on the top floor of the main building. The student dormitories have been moved to south campus next to the new state of the art athletic field.
Victoria: Everything is so different.
Allison: Is that okay?
Victoria: Very okay.
The two sisters gather their errant boys and walk to the main building of the campus. They all entered the large doors of the great hall of the main building.
The interior hadn't changed from its original Edwardian wood design. The great hall is interrupted by a grand set of wooden stairs in the center which lead to the upper floors. Next to the awards display case is an open door leading to various administrative offices. A familiar figure enters the hall from the office to greet them, their old teacher Mrs. Fay Vaughn.
Victoria hangs back with her nephews as Mrs. Vaughn greets Allison warmly. The two women hug each other.
Mrs. Vaughn: Allison was the drive up was okay? The roads were blocked for a few days. We had a storm which knocked over some old oaks. Seems a lot of us old trees are being tossed by the winds of change.
Allison: Fortune does not change men, it unmasks them.
Mrs. Vaughn: Suzanne Necker. It warms my heart when you girls remember the treasures we unearthed together in class. Correction: young women.
Mrs. Vaughn finally notices Victoria.
Allison: You remember my sister…
Mrs. Vaughn: Victoria! Oh my dear you look wonderful. Oh my. I didn't… realize you were coming up here this weekend!
Allison: She came to pay her respects at Ms. Bannet's funeral. My husband Jake had a prior engagement.
Mrs. Vaughn: Oh dear I hadn't thought of that at all. Very awkward isn't it.
Victoria: I am staying at the hotel in town.
Mrs. Vaughn: No No dear it's just… others of course are attending the funeral. In fact, a great benefactor to Perkins…
The phone rings from her office on the first level.
Mrs. Vaughn: Excuse me dears I have to take this call. We'll sort this all out later.
Mrs. Vaughn rushes to her office to answer the insistent phone.
Allison: What was that all about?
Victoria: She'll tell us when she comes back.
Victoria examines the Awards display case quickly finding the various trophies her team won so many years ago. The smile on her face, touched by pleasant memories, isn't missed by Allison.
Allison thinks to herself that her sexy, sometimes annoying, lovable husband probably was right all along about this trip for Tori and she would enjoy rewarding his wisdom when next she lays her eyes on him.
Mrs. Vaughn: I'm so glad you got my letter of thanks for the support to the new athletic field and swimming pool. You've been so generous in the past and Perkins has been fortunate over those years.
Pause.
Mrs. Vaughn: Oh yes the final arrangements have been made as you've instructed… Commander. Eleanor will be given a honorable homecoming.
Pause.
Mrs. Vaughn: She was so proud of you and thought of you fondly. I must add I'm very proud of your accomplishments… dear heart.
Long pause.
Mrs. Vaughn: There is a complication… Allison Hollander nee Moller is attending… Yes she is the new head mistress. She is the best candidate so that's fine. It's just… she brought her sister… Victoria with her. I thought she lived abroad.
Pause.
Mrs. Vaughn: I know you see no problems but she may still be affected by… well that's a bit irregular isn't it? These things aren't commonplace. I suppose… Okay my dear I'll do as you suggest. I know I'm being a mother hen but, drive safely.
Long Pause.
Mrs. Vaughn (laughs): I know dear, your exploits have probably been the cause of each and every gray hair on my head. You know you used to worry Eleanor endlessly. You couldn't have taken up a less dangerous profession? I know dear, honor and duty. Take care and I so look forward to seeing you again. It's been too long. Pause. Of course dearest I will make that treat just for you - you won't even have to share any, you greedy thing. Travel safe. Goodbye.
As Mrs. Vaughn terminates the call, she lets out a long held breath wondering how is she going to break this news to the young women waiting just outside her office.
They never thought it would ever come up so she, Eleanor and their troubled charge just moved forward never realizing that unspoken truths would be unexpectedly revealed. Mrs. Vaughn hoped Victoria wouldn't be adversely affected. They'd have to cross that bridge today because she was coming home and Perkins was everything to many young women over the years but for her, Perkins was her sanctuary, her home.
Mrs. Vaughn listened to their light talk hesitating to do as she suggested. Then again perhaps the child was right. Mrs. Vaughn pushes a button on the PA display on the wall of her office.
Mrs. Vaughn: Misha dear, if you aren't too busy can you come into the great hall. Thanks.
She smiled to herself how quickly the Commander reverts to a child in her mind. A child who during her recovery was the most impatient with her progress yet the most mischievous.
A child who would travel from the most remote regions of the world for her coconut banana bread. A child whose smile would light up the darkest heart - a surprising development considering the road she navigated to get to that blissful state of mind.
A child with lethal combat skills and more covert missions under her belt to make an American green beret or navy seal jealous.
Mrs. Vaughn: Ladies lets have tea in the faculty library. Our gardner can watch over the boys.
Victoria: Mr. Menzies is still here?
Misha Almir, the current gardner and instructor for the horticultural curriculum enters the great hall.
Mrs. Vaughn: No dear Joseph retired years ago. Ah yes Misha would you take…
Allison: This is Jacob and Francis, my youngest. They are starting at the boys school this year.
Mrs. Vaughn: That's wonderful.
Misha: Hi Jacob and you must be Francis. Have you two seen a plant which gobbles up bugs?
That piques the boys' attention and off they went eager to leave their beloved mother and auntie behind.
Mrs. Vaughn: Let's go dears we have a lot to discuss.
Allison: About my duties?
Mrs. Vaughn (distracted): Oh yes dear that too. Come.
Perplexed, both Allison and Victoria follow Mrs. Vaughn to the faculty library.
Mrs. Vaughn settles for a English breakfast black tea with cream and sugar, stirring the hot brew with her tea spoon.
Mrs. Vaughn: I hadn't had time to make any treats yet to go with our tea. By tomorrow we'll be inundated with sweets and cakes.
Mrs. Vaughn lifts the cup to her lips and blows across the surface, delaying her revelations rather than effectively cooling the tea to drink. She takes a sip and the creamy beige liquid's temperature bites the tip of her tongue.
Mrs. Vaughn: I know she often berates me about the amount of caffeinated beverages I consume but I find those white teas she sends me so tasteless. She says I've probably burnt out my taste-buds. But I've never liked subtle tastes.
Allison: Who Mrs. Vaughn?
Mrs. Vaughn: I'm getting to that dear. Goodness one doesn't know where to begin does one?
The sisters smile in confusion to each other.
Mrs. Vaughn turns to Victoria and looks at her with deep compassion.
Victoria: Mrs. Vaughn are you okay?
Mrs. Vaughn: She'll argue I haven't been well for years. I am concerned about you Victoria. I hope this doesn't upset you too much my dear.
Allison: I'm not comfortable with where this conversation is going Mrs. Vaughn…
Victoria: Allison I'm fine. Mrs. Vaughn say what you need to say.
Mrs. Vaughn: She's coming to the funeral. In fact, she made all the preparations for the ceremony.
Victoria: Who is coming Mrs. Vaughn?
Mrs. Vaughn: Paulie, my dear.
Victoria blinks rapidly then she loses her grip on her tea cup as it smashes on the floor spilling tea. The teaspoon dashes quickly across the parquet floor to escape under the coffee table.
Victoria: Oh god!
Unable to catch her breath, Victoria rises on unsteady legs and holds herself upright by the support of the chair she sat upon.
Allison: How dare you Mrs. Vaughn!
Mrs. Vaughn tries to help Allison clean up the mess but Allison angrily slaps her hands away. Victoria moves slowly to the closed window. Allison is quickly at her side.
Allison: We're leaving. I'll take the position at Rothchild Preparatory.
Victoria is hyperventilating.
Allison: Breath slowly sweetie. Deep breaths. That's it Tori.
Mrs. Vaughn: I'm so sorry my dears. Goodness, we should have let everyone know what happened but a year had gone by when she came back to us and everyone had moved on with their lives. So we focused our attention on her healing.
Victoria (finding her voice): What do you mean when she came back?
Mrs. Vaughn: After Pauline's attempt… she was barely alive when the ambulance arrived. She was a ward of a rich estate so as the authority here at Perkins, Eleanor and I were in charge of all Pauline's affairs.
Pause.
Mrs. Vaughn: At the hospital, we were told she wouldn't survive the night but another young woman was coming to the hospital from a horrible automobile accident elsewhere. We were advised to allow the doctors to use Pauline's remains to donate to the unfortunate young accident victim.
Pause.
Mrs. Vaughn: This young woman, a few years older than Pauline, was hit by a drunk driver in a head on collision and she needed a lung and new kidneys. We agonized over the decision. In the end, we decided to put a positive end to two tragedies.
Both the sisters returned to their seats, captivated by the story held inside Mrs. Vaughn over the years.
Mrs. Vaughn: Unfortunately the accident victim died on route to hospital. So Paulie was kept alive on a ventilator until her remains could be used for another patient. It seemed so ghoulish to me but Eleanor was convinced it was the right thing to do. This went on for a month.
Mrs. Vaughn discards the broken tea cup and stained napkins in the trash bin before returning to her seat with a sigh.
Mrs. Vaughn: I was becoming increasingly upset that Paulie wasn't at rest, kept in limbo so her parts could be harvested. I couldn't get out of my mind that Pauline was trapped in the state we had left her. It was devastating to me. In the end both the doctors and Eleanor gave in to my wishes to just… let her go.
Victoria walks over to Mrs. Vaughn and places her hand gently on top of Mrs. Vaughn's who smiles at her compassion.
Mrs. Vaughn: So we authorized them to pull the proverbial plug. We were preparing for a private funeral for Pauline, but she didn't leave. She started breathing on her own. The doctors told us she was in a coma which she may never come out of given the nature of her injuries - particularly the trauma to her head and spine from the fall. Yet when the year ended and a new one began, she just woke up.
Victoria: After she woke up, did she remember…
Mrs. Vaughn: Goodness yes and was she a hellion. She was asked not to return to many of the nursing homes in which we placed her.
Mrs. Vaughn takes a sip of her tea to clear her dry throat.
Mrs. Vaughn: We had to bring her back to Perkins and house her in private rooms here. She cursed us, she cursed herself, constantly threatening to do it again.
Pause.
Mrs. Vaughn: I was at my wits end until Eleanor suggested that we try tough love. God it was more difficult for me who just wanted to hug and comfort her. Eleanor would taunt her and use Pauline's anger to push her to progress through physical therapy. You see she was paralyzed from the chest down. She was convinced she was doomed to be imprisoned in her unresponsive body forever.
Victoria sits next to Mrs. Vaughn on the love-seat.
Mrs. Vaughn: Eleanor and Pauline used to have these loud shouting matches which would drive me to tears. Until the day, Pauline was able to sit up on her own and feed herself. That I believe was the turning point for her. Once she realized she could regain her active life back she seemed on fire with the idea not to let this second chance slip through her hands. She plunged herself into her physical therapy. Then three years later, she… took her fist steps.
Mrs. Vaughn eyes mist up over that memory. Allison sits down next to Victoria and Mrs. Vaughn. Mrs. Vaughn wipes her tears away with a tissue given to her by Victoria.
Mrs. Vaughn: Pauline began renewing her physical activities with swimming first then running. Lots of running. Gosh she had so much energy. We joked that she built up her reserves when she was laid up in bed for all those years. All the while Pauline qualified for her exams to get her diploma.
She was so mischievous during that time getting into everything with the curiosity of a child. She could find the most ingenious methods to disrupt our routines in humorous ways. It took us a while to realize she was repaying our compassion back with laughter.
Pause.
Mrs. Vaughn: Pauline was plagued by nightmares though. I suppose that's why she ran so much during the early morning hours. These nightmares would rob her of her sleep. She would retreat to the gym swimming laps to forget them. Needlessly she got into shape quickly.
Victoria: What were the nightmares about?
Mrs. Vaughn: It seems she was very aware of what was going on around her when she was in her coma. Therapy helped but she was so restless here at Perkins.
Pause.
Mrs. Vaughn: The world seemed to call to Pauline so we let her go and answer it.
Allison: So she eventually left Perkins?
Mrs. Vaughn: She went abroad to do what you young people tend to do… find herself. Two years and many letters later she comes back to us, mature, confident, with a sense of inner peace wearing a sharp looking blue uniform and gray beret… the child had signed up with the CEFCOM.
Allison: You're kidding!
Victoria: What is the CEFCOM?
Mrs. Vaughn drains her tea cup.
Mrs. Vaughn: Shall I get you another while I'm up?
Allison: I'll get it. Tori?
Victoria: Just water.
Allison: The Canadian Expeditionary Force Command (CEFCOM) is responsible for the planning, and conduct of all Canadian Forces (CF) under one operational command, maritime, land, air and special operations forces assets to conduct humanitarian, peace support or combat operations wherever they are required internationally. Jake sits on the CEFCOM committee. Would he have known about Pauline?
Mrs. Vaughn: Pauline was just recently promoted to rank of Commander. Pauline began this journey after she came back from Nepal. She said she found inner peace there. She graduated from Royal Military College with a Bachelor of Arts (Liberal Arts and Science).
Allison: How many sugars Mrs. Vaughn?
Mrs. Vaughn: Two dear, just two. Pauline was promoted after she commanded a company for two years of her tour which was an operational deployment to Croatia as a part of the United Nations' Protection Force. She's flying in from Kandahar, Afghanistan to be here for Eleanor's homecoming.
Victoria: You're proud of her.
Mrs. Vaughn: She's made remarkable strides. I'm very happy her tour is finally over. She only has a week more of duty. But she's taking it as furlough. She halfheartedly complaints that she'll get bored puttering around Perkins. Like she is some old retiree. She's 40 years old with more than enough trouble to get herself into I am certain of that.
Victoria: Trouble???
Mrs. Vaughn: Against my better judgement, she has competed in three Marathons and two strenuous endurance competitions.
Her leg muscles had stiffened into rocks as a protest from the trauma she pushed her body through to complete them.
Mrs. Vaughn smiles at a fond memory.
Mrs. Vaughn: The Commander also has a wicked sense of humor to which the men and women under her command can attest.
Victoria: Does she know I'm here?
Mrs. Vaughn: Yes dear I told her when she called earlier.
She told me to just tell you both what happened and that she was coming. She's very direct that one. Is that alright?
Allison: If Tori wants to leave then I'll go with her.
Victoria: It helps to know that her life turned out for the better. Was she concerned about seeing m… us?
Mrs. Vaughn: Oh I wouldn't worry about that. The Commander, as I like to call her, has a one track mind: My coconut banana bread. Which she probably won't share, greedy thing. I'll make a bit extra.
Allison: Coconut banana bread! I don't recall you baking when we were students here!
Mrs. Vaughn: Caring for Pauline was how I discovered that domestic skill. She is a sucker for baked goods over the years. I'd reward her with a chocolate cookie when she didn't give into her mischievous nature.
Allison: Did you find out… did she ever tell you why she…
Victoria: That's private Allie!
Mrs. Vaughn: It's alright Victoria, Pauline is an open book. A few days before her suicide attempt, Paulie had gotten a response from her inquiry to her birth mother. The reply wasn't pleasant. I found it in her belongings and we talked about it years later. The letter from birth mother's attorneys' was dismissive and negative. It must have devastated her. It was like being abandoned all over again. I suppose Eleanor and I filled that void in her life. One of many reason why the Commander has been a financial angel to Perkins over the years.
Mrs. Vaughn drains her second cup of tea.
Mrs. Vaughn: Goodness there is so much to do before she arrives. I'll understand if you're too upset but I hope you'll both stay for the ceremony. When the Commander arrives tonight she'll have two things on her mind my bread and crashing, as she calls it, into her bed. So you'll probably not see her the entire weekend she's here until Sunday morning for the funeral.
Allison: We have to discuss it Mrs. Vaughn. I don't want anything to seriously hurt Tori.
Victoria: You don't have to baby me Allie!
Mrs. Vaughn: I completely understand my dears. I heard about how all this deeply affected you so many years ago Victoria - hence my concern when I saw you here. Neither I nor Pauline wish to cause you any further distress. She said she would be content to say out of sight until Sunday morning to alleviate your fears.
Victoria: I'll have to think about it.
Mrs. Vaughn: Well you may stay here as long as you like. There bread baking in my immediate future. If you decide… it was lovely seeing you again Victoria. I'm proud of all you young ladies. You will excuse me.
Mrs. Vaughn leaves the two sisters alone in the faculty library.
Allison: Okay yell, scream get whatever you need to get out of your system so we can get out of here and drive back home.
Victoria: I'm not sure that I can leave here.
Allison: You have nothing to prove to me. Nor to yourself.
Victoria: But I do need something… I need to see her.
Allison: Why Tori? Honey let's leave this place and these memories behind. Remember I had offers from other institutions. One's much more prestigious than Perkins.
Victoria: Her death left an empty place inside and I need to fill it with something.
Allison: Fill it with what, guilt?
Victoria: Hope. She climbed out of her dark place. That news gives me hope that maybe I can do that too. Maybe she learned some ancient wisdom in Nepal.
Allison: Yeah and now that she's retiring she can open a yoga school and train people to find their centers.
The two sisters share a laugh.
Allison: Tori it haunted me when you were lost inside yourself. I couldn't bear it if seeing her sent you back there.
Victoria: I appreciate your honesty.
Allison: Repay me.
Victoria: What are you talking about now?
Allison gets up from her chair and kneels in front of her big sister. Allison takes Victoria's hands into her own and thinks: She has always enjoyed saying… my sister. They shared so much together over the years but one thing, one secret unspoken thing, sat like a Bengal Tiger in the room between them and now Allie summoned the courage to speak it.
Allison: What was going on between you and Paulie, Tori?
Victoria: Ask me anything but that.
Allison: Were you two… in love with each other?
Victoria looks at her baby sister as fat tears stream down her face.
Allison: That explains a lot. I sort of knew this didn't I? I felt guilty all these years thinking that when I caught her in your bed she jumped off the roof of this building out of shame. But that wasn't it was it?
Victoria: What do you want me to say?
Allison: Her birth mom wasn't the only person to…
Victoria: Push her away? I was so scared Allie. Scared that I would lose you, lose Dad but mostly scared of myself and of how I felt about her. It consumed me.
Allison: Tori you were just a kid back then. Just a scared kid.
Victoria: I'm still scared Allie. I'm petrified.
Allison: You're stuck with me. Dad is… dad. What still haunts you?
Victoria: My… I think… God, this is…
Allison: Relax Tori, say the word and we're out of here.
Victoria: I think… I may still love her.
Allison: God! You think or you know?
Victoria: Daniel knew.
Allison looks at Victoria incredulously.
Victoria: Not about Paulie specifically - that I loved someone other than him.
Allison: She's not the same kid Tori. This is a grown women who has made a full life for herself. For all you know she maybe married or in a…
Victoria: Partnership. Yes I know.
Allison: Why don't you go to the hotel and rest. Between the drive up and this I know I'm wiped. I can just imagine what you're going through right now.
Victoria: I do need to get out of this building. I have a day to get myself together before I see her. But you should take this position. It's the one you wanted and the boys will be close to you and Jake.
The two sisters leave the building, find the boys and drive away from the campus of Perkins towards the hotel in the nearby town.
Allison: You look better today.
Victoria: Surprising since I couldn't sleep all night.
Allison: Neither could I. I'm scheduled to go up there and inspect the faculty housing assigned to me as well as prepare for the welcoming ceremony.
Victoria: I'm glad you decided to stay. I'll take care of the boys for the day while you head mistress.
Allison: Well at least one of us has a reprieve. She's probably here by now.
Victoria: Yeah she probably is.
Allison: Part of me hopes to avoid her but the other part is curious, you know?
Victoria: It's been 23 years.
Allison: That makes me feel so old! Well I'll leave these two rug rats in your care. Boys mind Aunt Tori. I better not hear any horror stories when I get back.
The two sisters hug then Allison walks to her car.
She remembered Pauline always made her uneasy when she was a student at Perkins. Paulie was quick to point out that Allison was three years younger by calling her Squirt. Paulie was such a tomboy which irked Allison at the time. Why couldn't Paulie act more like a girl? Tori wasn't a tomboy. Allison couldn't understand why Paulie and Tori were such good friends.
One morning when Allison barged into the upper class room her sister Tori shared with Mary 'Mouse' Bedford and Pauline Oster with her friends in tow, young Allison was shocked to find Paulie and her sister in bed together, naked from the top, snuggled in sleep.
After that everything changed, Tori didn't hang out anymore with Paulie, whose behavior became more and more bizarre until she stood on that roof with the healed raptor she rescued in the woods that surrounded Perkins.
The raptor soared as Paulie fell.
Allison swore she heard and felt thunder on that sunny clear blue sky day, when Paulie hit the ground. What shattered her world was the look of desolation in her big sister's eyes. The year that followed deepened Allison's love for her sister and her guilt about what happened to Paulie.
As Allison pulled into the parking lot next to the main building she wondered what the future held for her family now that the guilt she felt was no longer necessary.
Today the campus was filled of students running about on various errands or going to weekend workshops. The green house seemed very popular on a Saturday morning.
Allison toured the cottage she, Jake and the boys would live in as she took up her duties at Perkins. It is a two story colonial house with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a sitting room, a nice size kitchen with breakfast nook and dining area. There was even a semi private garden behind the house. Allison had already done this tour with Jake who was very pleased with the rent and mortgage-free accommodations.
This time she needed to check the dimensions of the house for her furniture and other family belongings. Allison walked along the stone path from her new house past the guest residence houses quickly going back towards the main administrative building. She had an hour to get ready and dressed before the welcoming ceremony as the new head mistress of Perkins.
Allison entered the great hall and heard the faint sounds of soothing Asian music wafting down from the upper floor of the building.
A pretty petite Asian, upper class student, with green eyes covered by glasses, walks towards Allison and introduces herself.
Margaret: Good morning Mrs. Hollander. My name is Margaret Harris.
Allison: Good morning Margaret.
Margaret: Mrs. Vaughn is in the kitchen and she asked me to find you and accompany you there.
Allison: Thank you Margaret. Lead the way.
The new head mistress and her charge walked through the great hall past the administrative offices and the faculty library
Margaret: Mrs. Vaughn told me to tell you that your robes are cleaned, pressed and hanging in the closet of your office. Have you seen the new athletic field Mrs. Hollander? It's really posh!
Allison: What position do you play?
Margaret: I'm a forward Miss.
Allison: What year are you Margaret?
Margaret: Third Miss.
They reached the large dining hall. Some students are in the dining hall eating breakfast. All of whom greet their new head mistress fondly. Allison and Margaret walk through the entire dining room, exiting it and enter the large industrial kitchen in the rear of the building.
Margaret: I'll leave you here Miss. I have horticulture in ten minutes. See you later at the ceremony.
Allison: Thank you Margaret. See you later.
In the kitchen, Mrs. Vaughn is removing trays of chocolate drop cookies from the oven and placing them on a rack to cool.
Mrs. Vaughn: Oh good Margaret found you. I hope you gotten some rest dear. Yesterday was so stressful. I have been baking most of the night.
Allison: Yes I inspected the house everything seems good to go.
Mrs. Vaughn: Excellent. Have a cookie. I'm so happy you'll be here Allison. Perkins will be in good hands. Now a few things you should know. The fifth floor of this building is off limits to both staff and students. The rest of the building floors four, three, two, one and the storage facility in the basement are all part of the Perkins campus.
Mrs. Vaughn eats a cookie.
Mrs. Vaughn: Here are the keys to each and every door on campus. But that's mostly symbolic since the security on campus is responsible for… security.
Allison: Why is the fifth floor off limits?
A deep female voice stretches across the room and 23 years to reply: Those are my private rooms.
Allison stops breathing as the voice deepened by time taps her on the shoulder to make it's presence known.
Paulie: Hey Squirt, long time no see.
Allison breathes rapidly as she turns around to see someone she once thought she'd had inadvertently sent to her death.
There she stood in the doorway of the kitchen, tall and strong with shoulder length dark hair, warm brown eyes, hands defiantly on her hips and a knowing smirk on her thick lips. Allison took in her relaxed state as she wore flip flops on her bare feet, a pair of cargo shorts and a loose Dr. Seuss Green Eggs and Ham tee-shirt. In her glory, very much alive, Pauline Oster.
Allison didn't know what one says to someone who you thought was no longer living so she allowed her uncensored mind speak for itself.
Allison: I'm seriously pissed with you Paulie! You! You died! I thought I killed you!
Paulie: I tend not to do what people expect me to do but I can assure you: you in no way, had anything to do with my suicide attempt. Chalk that misstep up to teenage passions and rampant hormones.
Allison was shocked that Paulie blurted it out just like that.
Paulie (easily distracted): You made chocolate drop cookies too!
Paulie walks over to the counter with a smile on her face intent on grabbing more than a few cookies. However this time Mrs. Vaughn is quick with the spatula.
Paulie: Ouch! Stop being so mean old lady!
Mrs. Vaughn: You ate half a loaf of coconut banana bread last night! Honestly I don't know where you put it, Commander!
Paulie: I was hungry. They didn't feed me on the plane.
You know I hate eating and driving. Even though it's a rental, I hate crumbs in the car.
No sympathy is forth coming.
Paulie: I just swam 100 laps I'll have you know. Besides I'm still growing.
Even Allison had the good taste to smirk at that comment.
Mrs. Vaughn: You'll ruin your brunch! The ceremony is in less than an hour, besides eat a light breakfast, child. A hard boiled egg or perhaps a grapefruit? You're nothing but skin and bones.
Paulie (flexing her biceps): Skin, muscle and bones. You know I'm not a sit down eat-a-big-meal kinda gal. I like to graze.
Mrs. Vaughn: So now I'm supposed to think of you as a… goat?
Paulie: Baa - Baa.
Both Allison and Mrs. Vaughn laugh which was just the distraction Paulie needed to get her hands on some yummy cookies.
Mrs. Vaughn: Off with you then and say something nice to Misha. Maybe you could share a cookie with her before her next class starts.
Paulie (mouth full of cookies): What for?
Mrs. Vaughn: Misha has a crush on you. Besides you should settle down someday.
Paulie rolls her eyes at the often spoken advice.
Paulie: Why can't she have a crush on Mrs. Taylor, the math chair or Helen, the soccer coach?
Mrs. Vaughn: Well they have crushes on you too dear.
Paulie: It's the uniform, they love the uniform.
Mrs. Vaughn: Then they can swoon over you at the funeral when you wear it.
Paulie: I could just come naked that'll shake 'em off.
Allison: Or it may increase your list of admirers.
Paulie: Whose side are you on?
Allison: I'm like Switzerland.
Mrs. Vaughn: Didn't the committee pick a great new head mistress - so wise for her years.
Paulie: Peachy. Well I'm off to see what trouble I can get into.
Mrs. Vaughn: Remember be nice to Misha on your little adventure.
Paulie rolls her eyes again and leaves the kitchen with many chocolate drop cookies stuffed in the pockets of her beloved cargo shorts - just the article of clothing needed when Mrs. V is in the kitchen baking yummy treats.
It was good to see Allison again too Pauline thinks as she bites into another cookie.
Victoria: Congratulations Madam Head Mistress!
Allison: Thanks for bringing the boys, I was surprised you decided to come.
Victoria: I couldn't let my baby sister's day go without any family representation. Besides Allie, I'm tired of letting my fears dictate everything I do and say.
Allison: Well guess who I saw earlier today?
Victoria: Who?
Allison: Paulie.
Victoria: Of course she came last night.
Allison: I actually spoke with her this morning.
Victoria: You what?? What did you talk about?
Allison: Cookies. You know she's not what I expected at all. I told her that I have a right to be royally pissed at her. And she agreed but was very casual about everything. Nothing could get her mind off those cookies.
Victoria: Cookies? You said that to her?
Allison: Yep. She's gay you know.
Victoria: Why would she tell you that?
Allison: Actually Mrs. Vaughn casually blurted out the various crushes Paulie seems to have among the female faculty here at Perkins.
Victoria: I can't believe it. I'm having a hard time wrapping my brain around the fact that she survived.
Allison: I can. Thrived is more like it. She's very healthy looking.
Victoria: Well I'd doubt they let couch potatoes in the CEFCOM.
Allison: Please. You haven't been to official functions and dinner with CEFCOM dignitaries. I often wonder over my undercooked chicken and overcooked vegetables how they fit into those uniforms. She'll be wearing hers tomorrow, by the way.
Victoria: Who?
Allison: Paulie. Tori are you paying attention to this conversation?
Victoria: Did she mention… ask about me?
Allison: No. But I wouldn't read too much into that with her focused on those cookies.
Victoria: Oh Mary It's wonderful to see you! What have you been up to?
Mary: And you. I got married. I'm Mrs. King now. I've got a girl, four years old, her name is Hanna. I'm a senior journalist for the Toronto gazette.
Victoria: Divorced. No children. I'm just a nurse.
Allison: She's a surgical nurse.
Mary: Hey Allie!
The two former classmates hug each other fondly.
Mary: How is Jake?
Allison: He's fine. He couldn't make it. Previous commitment he couldn't get out of.
Mary: I really regretted not sticking around after Paulie… Victoria is visibly upset.
Allison: You haven't heard?
Mary: Heard what?
Allison: Pauline Oster is very much alive and is here today for Mrs. Bannet's funeral.
Mary, beyond shocked, looks at Tori for confirmation.
Mary: You can't be serious!
Victoria: Yeah she's here… somewhere.
Victoria looks around the chapel at the people sitting in their pews and the folks milling about in the vestry - Mrs. Vaughn was talking up a storm with a middle aged couple - most probably parents - but no Paulie.
Mary: It must have been earth shattering to see her again.
Victoria: I… haven't seen her… yet.
Allison: I have. I've spoken with her a bit.
The organ music begins to play signaling the proceedings were about to begin.
Allison: Let's pick our seats we can discuss this later.
A student usher handed out programs to everyone who enters the large size chapel. Victoria takes one as a keepsake to press in her Bible when she gets back home.
Once everyone is seated the minister begins a rather long homily which was both comforting and a bit sleep inducing. In fact the three women, Allison, Mary and Victoria smirked when they heard the distinctive sounds of snoring from the back of the chapel, when the minister is two-third through his homily.
The choir sang a few hymns. Many tears flowed. Mrs. Vaughn spoke briefly and her memories of Eleanor sparked a few tears and her gentle wit drew many smiles.
Victoria looked at the beautiful flowers arraigned in the front of the chapel. The picture of Ms. Bannet which was blown up into a large poster was a beautiful one from her earliest years as head mistress of Perkins. The casket was handsomely decorated and the remains of Ms. Bannet were nicely preserved and prepared for this service.
Victoria scanned the funeral program. Her heart almost stopped when she noted that the last person scheduled to speak was Commander Pauline Oster.
She is here!
Victoria looked around but didn't see her anywhere. Allison was taken back by Victoria's manic scanning about the chapel until Mary pointed out the last item in the program.
All three women looked around to see if they could catch a glimpse of Paulie. All in attendance were shocked to hear music playing over the chapel speakers: Beautiful Day by U2.
And there she was walking up to the front of the chapel, wearing a dress uniform indicating that she was attached to the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI). The jacket Paulie wore was a scarlet tunic with French grey (light blue) facings and white piping. Her dress blue trousers had a scarlet stripe that matched the jacket. Held smarty in her right arm, her White Wolseley (pith) helmet with French grey puggaree (hat band), Paulie steps forward towards the speaker podium.
Mary: That's… that's Paulie! She's really here! She's a Patricia? Wow!
Allison: What's a Patricia?
Mary: Paulie would join a regiment commanded by a woman. Adrienne Clarkson, the former Governor General is the new Colonel-in-Chief of the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry regiment of the Canadian Forces. Their nickname is the Patricia's or sometimes the Princess Pat's.
Victoria glances quickly at Paulie then closes her eyes. Tears steam down Victoria's face as she discreetly gets up from the pew and escapes to the hall that connects the chapel to the main building.
Leaning her head against the wall Victoria sobs uncontrollably. Allison finds her in the hallway and leads her to a more private alcove away from the main hall of the building. They speak to each other in whispers - their personal drama interrupted by the sound of laughter mushrooming from out of the chapel.
The two sisters look at each other confused by the unexpected sound of gaiety from the funeral. They leave the alcove and peek inside the chapel to listen to Paulie's irreverent, iconoclastic, insightful, and imaginative eulogy.
Paulie places a short stack of index cards on the podium.
Paulie: I choose the term homecoming for Ms. Bannet from a funeral I attended for a fallen brother. At the time I wondered why did they call it that? A homecoming? When I go home the last thing I expect to sleep in is a casket. All these beautiful flowers. You know I'd begun to suspect the psychological nature of dates who would routinely give me flowers. Did they expect some climatic event at the end of the date I wasn't aware of?
More laughter as Paulie takes a long sip of water.
Paulie: It didn't make sense to me until I was called to do this favor for a wonderful teacher, a caring guardian and friend.
Pause.
Paulie: This is an intimate favor - to "escort" a loved one to their final resting place - sending them home. Ms. Bannet have a good rest. You'll be profoundly missed.
Paulie drains the glass of water.
Paulie: Now that I've said all that I've planned to say. I think it was genius for Mrs. Bannet to request I give her eulogy. At the time I thought: how morbid. She personally ask me many years ago and at the time I was practicing archery. As you can guess the shot went a bit wild. So now I can fess up about how Mrs. Vaughn's cat Mr. Wiggles walks with a slight limp. My bad Mr. Wiggles.
Everyone is hysterically laughing - even the two blue eyed sisters peeking into the chapel - Allison and Victoria.
Paulie: But now I know her request was pure genius. Who better than yours truly to bridge the the world of the living, that which we think we know and the misunderstanding of death, which we know not. In the passions of the folly of youth, I courted death in a cavalier manner. As fate would have it I was spared to have a second chance at… everything. From these experiences, I've learned a secret that I want to share with you: Never knock on Death's door: ring the bell and run away! Death really hates that! Thank you for coming.
First, she couldn't get close enough to Paulie who seemed intent on getting as many cookies as possible on her dessert plate without spilling any. Next, Paulie was approached by almost everyone who attended the funeral and wanted to thank her for her words. Then, she lost her completely. It was as though Paulie disappeared.
Mary asked Mrs. Vaughn if she had seen her but Mrs. Vaughn was highly distracted being no help at all. Mary couldn't find Allison nor Victoria but she knew they were probably off some where trying to sort out Tori's feelings about seeing Paulie again after all these years.
Mary left the main building and immediately spotted Paulie, alone, leaning against the thick trunk of a old oak tree, eating her booty of cookies and cakes. She walked towards her.
Mary: Paulie?
Paulie: Hey Mouse!
Paulie hugged her, picked her up and swung her around. Then let her gently back down on her feet and greeted her with a warm smile.
Paulie: I'm glad you came Mouse.
Mary: I haven't been called that name in a long time. Paulie, I can't believe it's you.
Paulie: Yep in the flesh. Want some cookies?
Mary: I'm good.
Paulie: More for me.
Mary (laughs): I spoke with Allison and… Victoria.
Paulie: Yeah I noticed that she left when I walked out to deliver the eulogy - so I figured, I'd make myself scarce.
Mary: This is probably very hard on her.
Paulie: Hmmm… What are you plans for tonight?
Mary: Why?
Paulie: Wanna come keep me out of trouble?
Mary: What kind of trouble?
Paulie: The worst kind. But with your sensible calming presence there we'll be safe. What do you say?
Mary (hugs Paulie): I can't go but I've missed you Paulie.
Paulie (being hugged): Well I might call later for bail money.
Mary: How much trouble do you tend to get into?
Paulie laughs.
Allison: Come on sweetie. Let's go back inside.
Victoria: I can't keep running away Allie. But I can't go forward either.
Allison looks over at Mary and Paulie, who stop hugging and return her gaze. Paulie registers Allison's unspoken desire that she leave the area.
But Paulie never does what anyone expects so she chucks the empty paper dessert plate in the trash and she strolls towards the two sisters. Victoria is frightened and Allison steps in between Paulie and Victoria when Paulie reaches them. Mary ducks back inside the wake to give the three women some privacy.
Allison: Paulie please. She's not ready.
Paulie: Ready for what?
Allison: She can't do this right now. Please, Paulie.
Paulie reaches around Allison and gently lifts Victoria face. Victoria blinks away tears as she looks at Paulie's face.
Paulie: Tori? I'm not upset with you nor do I hold any animosity towards you so… you need to give yourself a break 'cause I think the only person hurting you is… you. You didn't do anything wrong. Not many years ago and not today. Those girls we were so long ago, they no longer exist.
Paulie's face breaks a genuine smile.
Paulie: I'm really glad you came, Mrs. Bannet really liked and respected you.
Paulie places a gentle kiss on Victoria's forehead then frowns slightly before quickly rushing off, leaving the two sisters alone.
On the drive back to the hotel Tori seemed more calm than she had in many years. Allison opted not to talk about what happened to allow Tori the time to process everything. Honestly though Allison was busting at the seams to talk about the day's events ad nauseam.
When she entered her hotel room she was surprised to find her husband Jake there playing with the boys. He walked over to her at the open door, hugged and kissed her. He missed her and worked hard to speed up his duties so he could get back with his family. Jake regretted not being able to make it to the funeral and her welcoming committee but he vowed to make it all up to her. All this he put into his kiss - but she had other thoughts on her mind, which were immediately on her lips when they stopped kissing.
Allison: Did you know that Pauline Oster is in the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry?
Jake: No I miss you? No it's great to see you?
Allison: I miss you. It's great to see you. Did you know that Pauline Oster is not only alive but also in the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry?
Jake: Let me explain…
Allison: You knew and you didn't tell me???
Jake: I suspected and didn't tell you. She probably wasn't the same Pauline Oster we knew. I saw her name on numerous reports but no connect to Perkins College in her file.
Allison: Well guess what Jake? It's her! I spoke with her! Tori has seen her too! These past two days have been an emotional roller-coaster for me and Tori and you couldn't have forewarned me? You must have known something to have "innocently" suggested that I take Tori up here with me. Do I look like a fool?
Jake: Allison don't yell at me and I don't think you are a fool. Just that this has gone on too long.
Allison: What am I supposed to do now? My sister has been through yet another traumatic experience. Jake I can't forgive you if she has a relapse.
Jake: What happened? Did Oster hurt her? If that freak hurt her…
Allison: She didn't hurt Tori. She was very understanding and surprising compassionate. So stop calling her a freak okay!
Jake: Tori isn't fragile. She just has to be reminded of that.
Allison: She's still in love with her you know.
Jake: Paulie???
Allison: No Tori. She was in love with Paulie all those years ago and she may still be in love with her. Paulie loved her as well.
Jake: Even when we were dating? That's why she jumped…
Allison: Yes and no. It's even more complicated than that.
Jake: No wonder she wanted to kill me.
Allison: You were like the rest of us, we saw what we wanted to see.
Jake: So what happens now? Are they gonna get together or whatever women like that do together?
Allison: I honestly don't know. I don't want Tori to get hurt.
Jake: What can hurt her now - your father?
Allison: He'll probably get ugly but that isn't anything Tori or I can't handle.
Victoria was calmly quiet while Allison nervously chatted away about anything that she saw - while avoiding any conversation about Paulie, effectively stopping Jake's indelicate inquires to Tori.
Jake: Vic I have to apologize for not letting you and Allison in on my suspicions.
Allison: Jake take the boys and get some ice cream. Now Jake.
Jake shrugs his shoulders and walks off with boys who picked at their meals at brunch but were hungry for a nice cool treat.
Victoria: Why do you let them eat that stuff? It's nothing but frozen lard with sugar added to it.
Allison: I know Tori. I know but it's fun. Ice cream is fun for kids. You'll probably raise yours to be strict vegans.
Victoria: I did eat fish today. Besides it's unlikely I'll ever have children.
Allison: Why?
Victoria: I'm a divorced woman still in love with a girl who until this weekend I thought was dead because she committed suicide. Where do you see children in that equation?
Allison relieved that Tori finally admitted how she feels ponders on the right response.
Allison: Do you want children some day?
Victoria: Of course I do.
Allison: Then one day you'll have them.
Victoria: It's that simple?
Allison: What was the one thing you wished if you had the chance again you could have said to her?
Victoria: I'm sorry I was such a coward. I'm sorry I didn't believe in us. I'm sorry I hurt you.
Allison: Well you've got the chance to do that too. That simple.
Victoria decided to stay one more day and wait for Paulie for their much over due talk. Victoria took the time to explore the campus to remember and put to rest many of the ghosts which haunted her.
Paulie came back to campus wearing her service firearm over her desert combat camouflage fatigues and her Canadian Special Operations Regiment (CSOR) tan beret. She bumped into Ms. Misha Almir, the red-headed horticulture instructor.
As they spoke, Victoria watched them. Their body language was interesting to read at a distance. Misha was trying to get and keep Paulie's attention but Paulie kept subtly increasing the distance between herself and Misha. Paulie's shoulder set ramrod straight, inspection ready.
That seemed strange to Victoria who remembered Paulie was one of the most relaxed young women in her own body when they were teenagers. Perhaps all that military training changed the way she held herself. Then Victoria noticed the way Paulie had her head tilted. It seemed to indicated forced patience. All these visual clues suggested that Paulie was becoming uncomfortable.
Victoria dispassionately observed Misha's flirtatious gestures. Paulie seemed content to end the conversation and walk on to the main building. Misha followed her even though before they "bumped" into each other Misha was going in the opposite direction. Paulie stops and forcibly turns Misha back into her original direction and waves goodbye marching off into the main building.
Victoria sat beneath the sycamore tree watching these events unfold and returned to watching the students study, socialize and rush off to classes - giving herself time to gather her courage and time for Paulie to unwind from what looked like a stressful day.
After having dinner with her sister's family in their new on campus residence, Victoria called the main building to arrange a meeting with Paulie, before she goes out for the evening.
At dusk, Victoria walked along a lit pathway back to the main building. She heard a guitar being played so she followed the sound. At the end of her journey she watched Paulie still dressed in her service fatigues sitting on a bench playing a classical spanish piece on an acoustic guitar.
Paulie stops when she notices Victoria standing nearby watching her. Victoria walks closer but remains standing.
Victoria: I didn't know you played.
Paulie: I began playing as part of my physical therapy to get my dexterity back and I've always loved guitars.
Victoria: What were you playing?
Paulie: Asturias, a classical piece written by the Spanish composer Isaac Albéniz for piano in G minor. Francisco Tárrega transcribed it for guitar and put it in E minor. Most people know it from the "Suite Española".
Victoria: It's beautiful… and beautifully played. You could probably have a career with the guitar.
Paulie: I just play for tickles and giggles. I don't want to make money doing this or it won't be fun anymore.
Victoria: Is that why you're retiring? It isn't fun anymore?
Paulie: Pretty much.
Victoria: I wanted to see you because I had a few things I need to say.
Paulie gives Victoria her complete attention.
Victoria: I'm sorry… I'm sorry I hurt you.
Paulie: I'm sorry I hurt you.
Victoria: Did you do it… to hurt me?
Paulie: I remember being very tired and feeling hopeless. I just made the colossal mistake in thinking that those feelings would never go away.
Victoria: I've felt tired and hopeless all these years since. I felt like I've been sleepwalking through my life.
Paulie: Then you need to wake up.
Victoria: Thank you for being so compassionate with me yesterday. However I'm confused about something: You kiss me then you walk off?
Paulie: You looked like you needed it then I really had to go "squeeze the lemon".
Victoria: Squeeze the what?
Paulie: You know after drinking all that water during the eulogy? Guys call it "shaking hands with the man". The females in the regiment call it "squeezing the lemon" 'cause if you aren't careful, you'll squirt all over the place.
Victoria: Nice visual.
Paulie: You asked.
Paulie smiles then re-tunes her guitar.
Victoria: So what other insights did you get in Nepal?
Paulie: What?
Victoria: Mrs. Vaughn said you travelled to Nepal and found your inner peace.
Paulie laughs.
Victoria: What's so funny?
Paulie: I didn't get enlightened in Nepal, I got laid. Quite often.
Victoria rolls her eyes at Paulie who can't stop laughing. She sits down next to Paulie shaking her head.
Paulie: You must have conjured up visions of me baldheaded on a meditation mat wear saffron robes with a string of 108 sandalwood beads around my neck. Om!
Victoria: Okay I get it.
Paulie: I'm been in many different places in my second life some quite boring others so dangerous I was wishing I was at the more boring places. In all those experiences I never thought that my answers would be found outside in the world. That's just a place for discovering new stuff. Learning insight about myself begins and ends with me no matter where I happen to be. Funny thing is I learned the most about me when I was bored or pissed off or just down right ornery ready for a good knock down drag out fight than blissfully contemplating stuff.
Victoria: I was hoping… you had some insights to… teach me.
Paulie: I'm the last person to teach you anything but really bad habits. But there's something that I can show you. Come with me.
Paulie stands with her guitar in one hand and extends the other hand out to help Victoria to her feet. Victoria looks up at her reluctantly.
Paulie: Come on it's worth it, trust me.
Victoria takes Paulie's hand and doesn't let go after she stands. They walk hand in hand through the dark woods close and silently. Victoria continues on this mysterious trek with warring thoughts darting around her mind.
The sun has set and it's very dark. Just when Victoria's apprehension reaches its apex and she decides to turn back, Paulie stops.
Victoria bumps into her.
Victoria: Why did you stop?
Paulie releases her hand and points to the heavens.
Paulie: Look up.
Victoria: What???
Paulie: Look up.
Victoria reluctantly looks up and beholds the universe sparkling against a black vastness of space.
Paulie: That view will fill you with what I think you're looking for. Those stars are so far away, yet you can't stop the thought that if you just reach your hand out far enough, you can touch them.
They stand together on the highest point on campus, in a clearing of the woods, looking up at the stars in the night sky.
Paulie: Your mind knows that's just impossible but that isn't what's important, its the feeling of hope that you can, if you try. Hope is the first step to anything and everything. Let me tell ya that step is quite a bitch to traverse. The secret to moving beyond that is "the trying".
Victoria looks at the stars then looks at Paulie, who is scanning the heavens with childlike wonder. Victoria's shaken hand reaches out to touch Paulie's expressive face. Paulie turns into Victoria's hand which cups her cheek. Victoria's fingers explore Paulie's brows, cheeks bones, lips and chin.
A few tears fall, from Victoria's eyes.
Victoria: I was such a coward. I didn't believe in us. I didn't believe in you and then you were gone. I believe in you now.
Paulie: I believe in you too.
Paulie wipes away Tori's tears and smiles.
Paulie: Told ya that first step was something else. Let's get back. Your sister is probably looking for you and I have to get ready for my date.
They begin walking back and Victoria places her hand in Paulie's.
Victoria: What date?
Paulie: That old woman. Mrs. V set me up! She wants me to settle down and she likes Misha, who I admit is... very attractive.
Pause.
Victoria: But…
Paulie: Misha is very cool and sexy but… she has that hungry look: you know, for the house, the dog and the 2.5 kids.
Victoria: And you're not… hungry for that.
Paulie: I'd do for her in a heartbeat but if we don't want the same things, feelings will get hurt. I've been very upfront with all my lovers in the past about my expectations. Those who want more than that, I avoid.
Victoria: Really?
Paulie: I'll admit I've done a bit of the "chase for the forbidden" in my day - I'm only human. Besides, I'm still in my growing stage.
Victoria: Paulie, you're forty years old.
Paulie: Who said you have to be shackled by forty? Why not eighty?
Victoria: Most people don't make it to eighty, Paulie.
Paulie: And how is that my fault?
Victoria: So you're not for a LTR?
Paulie: Too much work. Don't get me wrong I've enjoyed many men and women.
Victoria: I thought you were a lesbian.
Paulie: Though I tend to lean towards the ladies. I'm not into labels beyond being Human. You can call me makes ever makes you feel comfortable though. Be prepared that I might not respond to it.
Victoria: So you're a player?
Paulie: I sincerely loved each and everyone one of my past lovers. I don't believe in meaningless sex. That's like eating when you aren't hungry - what's the point in that? I just don't want to spend forever and a day with any of them.
Victoria: So you're into, um poly- polyamory?
Paulie (laughs): I can't pay close attention to two or more lovers at a one time - I'd be overwhelmed. I gotta spread 'em out sequentially.
Victoria: You seemed to have this all worked out.
Paulie: Yeah the math works but I'm ever vigilant.
Victoria: Vigilant about what?
Paulie: Life has a way of screwing up the works - especially when you got a good thing going just to mess with you. Keeps me on my toes though. Anyway, I've put Misha off for some time but she doesn't take no for an answer. So maybe I'm wrong about her and all she wants is a good time. I'm all for that. I'll appease her curiosity and mine over a few drinks and a couple of laughs then… Hey what are you and Allie doing tonight?
Victoria: Why?
Paulie: Wanna come keep me out of trouble?
Victoria: What kind of trouble do you tend to get into Paulie?
Victoria: The absolute worst kind. But with your sensible calming presence and Allie's "no nonsense" attitude there at least I'll have witnesses to attest to my innocence. What do you say?
Victoria (hugs Paulie): I've missed you terribly Paulie.
Victoria pulls back slightly keeping her arms around Paulie's body, reluctant to let go. Her lips a short distance from Paulie's lips
Paulie (being hugged): I'll take this as a yes.
Paulie breaks the hug and escorts Tori back to the center of the campus.
Jake: Explain again, why I'm missing the quarterfinals tonight?
Allison puts on a light jacket.
Allison: You could record it, we do have TiVo.
Jake: It's not the same.
Allison: It is exactly the same, only delayed. Besides Tori wants to go but needs our support.
Jake: Didn't they hash this all out already? Why do we need to witness their love fest?
Allison: Sometimes you can be so clueless. Tori still has feelings for Paulie but Paulie is going on a date with another women.
Jake: So why does she want to hang out with them on their date?
Allison: Paulie invited her to come. Tori said yes. So there may be a window of opportunity for Tori, that's where I come in.
Jake: Why am I going again?
Allison rolls her eyes and tosses the car keys to Jake.
Allison: Paulie invited me as well. I need a ride - I intend to drink tonight.
Jake: You mean, I have to make nice with Pounding Pauline and be sober all night?
Allison: In a word: Yes. If you're a good boy, I predict hot sex in your future. Now lets get going. We have to pick up Tori at the hotel - then were off to that new sports bar off Main called Sessions. If you're really really good they might be screening the quarterfinals on the big screen.
Jake: I should be so lucky.
Allison leaves and Jake begrudgingly follows his wife out the door of their on campus house toward the parked sedan, shutting the front door behind him.
She sat at a table next to Paulie and her old school chums. Before her was a decent vodka tonic. The music playing was tolerable but it didn't invite one to dance - which is what she wanted to do with Paulie tonight.
Paulie was overly preoccupied with the stupid game broadcasted on the big screen TV. Misha was getting more attention from the bartender - only because she was on her second drink. A third drink was a distinct possibility.
Earlier in the evening, Misha initially got the attention she wanted from Paulie when she stepped out to greet her in the new black leather dress she was wearing. It clung to her in all the right places and Paulie couldn't keep her eyes from straying along her various curves when she picked her up at her apartment, to Misha's delight.
Misha remembered when she first met Paulie three years ago at Perkins, she started there as an instructor and she was immediately smitten by Paulie's sexy smirk, her confidence, her deep voice and her bedroom eyes. She had been lobbying for a date with Paulie for those three years and finally the elusive woman said yes.
Misha was excited. She had her hair done, splurged on a manicure and brought this new sexy dress all to snare the skittish Commander.
Expecting dinner and dancing, Misha wasn't too pleased that their date was to begin at a smelly sports bar. It would be difficult to get Paulie's attention from the big screen displaying every disgusting sport played in technicolor and state of the art surround sound technology. Her last relationship died an agonizing death due to her ex-girlfriend's fanatical obsession with every sport played on earth.
So when they reached this too loud sports bar, the evening took an unromantic, wrong turn. Especially when Paulie's old school chums showed up.
Jake entered the sports bar behind Allison and Victoria. He was very reluctant to see Pauline Oster again. The last time he saw her was when they were teenagers and she stabbed him with the sharp, uncovered tip of her fencing foil.
Yet there she was sitting at a table next to a very attractive young woman her eyes glued to a wide screen TV affixed to the far wall. Allison approached the table first.
Allison: Hi Paulie.
Paulie: Hey.
Paulie preoccupied with the images on the screen never turns around to properly greet her guests.
Victoria: Aren't you going to introduce us Paulie?
Paulie: Uh? Oh yeah… Misha this is Tori and her sister Allison. We went to Perkins together many years ago.
Misha: Charmed I'm sure.
Jake mumbled something which drew Allison's attention.
Allison: This is my husband Jake.
Misha: So Toni, where is your husband tonight?
Victoria: My name is Victoria and I'm divorced.
Misha: My condolences.
Allison noticed what Paulie was preoccupied with on the big screen: The quarterfinals.
Allison: Jake it seems that you can watch the quarterfinals here!
Jake sat down next to Paulie who looked over at him briefly before returning her gaze to the televised game.
Jake: What's the score so far?
Paulie: 17 to 12, Fairfield.
Jake: Geez, the score hasn't changed in the last twenty minutes.
Paulie: It's the refs they're holding up the play time and Surrey seems intent on drawing penalties against. (yells at the screen) Come on man, keep your head in it!
There is a goal made and the sport bar roars. Allison and Misha rolls their eyes, exasperated.
Paulie: Good one!
Jake: You got interest on this?
Paulie: A small wager. You?
Jake: You're definitely not married.
Paulie: May I and that experience never meet in a dark alley.
Jake and Paulie chuckle over her joke which relaxes Jake considerably. He looks discretely at Paulie noting that she turned out to be a very attractive woman with a definite physical strength to her body. Jake realized that Paulie could probably kick his ass with her bear hands now but she seemed mellow and not so manic as he remembered her when they were teenagers. Jake thinks to himself: this Paulie a vast improvement over her past self.
Misha wanted to tear out those blue eyes which seem to rake possessively over Paulie's well toned physique. Thankfully, the Commander was oblivious to the attention. In fact Paulie was getting that same sort of attention from a lot of the women at the sports bar and it was seriously working Misha's last nerve.
A cacophony of sound: TV's blasted the play by play of the quarterfinals, the jukebox blasted songs from the latest Arctic Monkeys album Favourite Worst Nightmare and din of conversation.
Tori observed Jeff and Paulie coexisting in an unspoken solidarity as they both were mesmerized by the images of athleticism on the big screen TV. While slowly sucking down her first and only pint, Paulie bobbed her head in time to the loud punk rock music.
Misha downed her third vodka tonic. Feeling the rush of heat through her body, she intended to make her needs known.
Misha: I didn't get all dressed up to go out and watch TV Paulie.
Paulie: Uh?
Misha pulls Paulie's gaze away from the big screen TV by gently grabbing her chin and turning Paulie's head in her direction.
Misha: Remember me, your date?
Paulie: Sorry sweetie I have a bet on the outcome of this game.
Misha: I could care less about that. I'm dressed to dance. I want to dance and I want to dance with you. So let's get going.
Paulie: Okay babe.
Paulie takes some money out of her pants pocket.
Paulie: Looks like this party is moving on. You guys wanna come?
Jake (whines): The game isn't over yet.
Allison: I'm with Misha. Take me dancing Jake.
Jake: Oh come on you're kidding right?
Allison: We haven't been dancing since before the boys were born.
Jake: That's because we're married now. We don't have to go out dancing. That's for single people.
Allison: My prediction for hot sex becoming faint… In fact the image of it is fading quickly.
Everyone laughs.
Jake: Ok. Ok. We're going dancing.
Paulie and Jake settle their bar tabs. Misha takes a bathroom break. Tori smiles and bumps playfully against her sister.
Allison: How are you holding up?
Victoria: I'm good. So that's how you keep Jake in check.
Allison: On occasion. It's best not to over use my authority though.
The two sisters laugh as Misha returns to join them.
Misha: What's so funny?
Allison: We were discussing how to keep your partner in check.
Misha: Well when I get Paulie to settle down, she'll know exactly who's the boss in our marriage - me.
Allison: You seem sure of yourself.
Misha: I just have to kill that stupid sports obsession she has. I'm not too crazy about the gambling either but I'll work it all out.
Victoria: Why not find someone who has traits you do like instead of trying to change Paulie into someone else?
Misha: You're divorced which suggests you haven't the foggiest idea how to keep a relationship healthy. Let me explain it in simple terms so you have better success next time sweetie - I'm not changing Paulie, I'm improving her.
With that Misha saunters away toward the exit to drape herself against Paulie as they wait for the valet to retrieve Paulie's rental.
Victoria: I really don't like her.
Allison: She is a pill isn't she. I feel sorry for Paulie if she settles down with her.
Victoria: I don't think Misha and Paulie are on the same page about that.
Allison: Now that's funny.
Jake was pleasantly surprised by how much he had in common with the female warrior. Paulie held no animosity towards Jake at all. They bonded over the same team winning the quarterfinals and even made plans to play cards with some of Paulie's mates at the end of the week.
The music was liberally mixed with songs flowing into each other. Then one song clearly began, Dance Tonight by Lucy Pearl. It played over the gigantic speakers.
Paulie: Let's dance!
Paulie grabbed Misha by the forearm and out to the dance floor. Paulie snapped her fingers in sync as she gyrated her shoulders, neck and feet to the beat. Misha moved closer against Paulie who kept her continually snapping fingers elevated in the air while punctuating the beat of the snare drum with the sensual movement of her hips. Face to face the two women got lost in the melody of the music.
Victoria watched the two women together on the dance floor.
Victoria: She's a great dancer.
Allison: They're just sizing each other up for sex.
Jake spits out his ale in surprise at Allison's candor. He slightly sprays Allison.
Allison: Jake!
Allison wipes her dress off with a napkin.
Jake: Allison!
Allison: How do you think I picked you, Sweetheart?
Jake: I have two left feet, Honey.
Allison: But we move together well so we're a good fit. So fit with me on that dance floor. (To Tori) You don't mind do you?
Victoria: Go have fun. I'm having a good time, really.
Jake: I'll dance with you later okay?
Victoria: Go Jake.
Jake and Allison find themselves on the dance floor. Jake indeed has two left feet and almost no rhythm but as Allison stated they fit well together.
Victoria sips her wine and watches the fun around her.
Even though she didn't have a date and she wasn't dancing she had a calm, happy feeling. She couldn't quite understand from where it originated but she was content for the first time in a long time. It was as though the grayness which colored her life left. Everything now was bright and colorful. Her hungry eyes couldn't drink in all the sights fast enough.
Misha and Paulie returned to their table. Misha was winded but Paulie hadn't broken a sweat yet. Misha finished her fourth vodka tonic.
Misha: Be a dear and get me another.
Paulie: I think you've had enough don't you?
Misha (pouts): I'm thirsty Paulie.
Paulie: I'll get you something.
Paulie walks off toward the bar. Misha smirks ignoring Victoria's presence. A woman at another table winks at Misha who demurely smiles in return. Victoria shakes her head laughing.
Misha: For a third wheel you seem awfully happy.
Victoria: Insecure much?
Misha: I'm not insecure.
Victoria: It's the only explanation for your need to childishly insult me all evening - especially when I haven't done anything to warrant it.
Misha: You barged in on MY DATE!
Paulie returns with a tall drink in a clear glass which she sets down in front of Misha. Misha smirks at Victoria then sips her drink. She immediately spits it out as Paulie jumps out of the way of the blast.
Misha: Water??? This isn't what I want. Just get me another tonic on ice.
Paulie: You've had enough, drink the water.
Misha (pouts): But I don't want water.
Victoria: You're probably dehydrated, you'll need it.
Misha: Did I ask you for your opinion?
Paulie: I don't like nasty drunks.
Misha: I don't like being ignored.
The woman flirting with Misha winks at her behind Paulie's back. Misha smiles haughtily.
Misha: Maybe I need to spend my time with someone who can appreciate my attributes.
Misha pushes pass Paulie and slightly stumbles as she makes her way to the adjacent table. The woman flirting with her invites her to sit and calls the waitress for a drink order.
Paulie: I brought you here so I'm gonna take you home Misha!
Misha: Don't do me any favors, Paulie.
Paulie: Fine.
Paulie sulks over her second pint of the evening. A few large gulps ending with a cute burp and it turns quickly into her third.
Victoria: Trying to catch up with Misha?
Paulie: I thought I was gonna get some tonight, this sucks.
Victoria (laughs): What happened to "I don't do meaningless sex. I love all my lovers"?
Paulie: I have deep like for Misha.
Victoria: Especially when… she's wearing that dress.
Paulie (smiles): Yeah.
Victoria (laughs): What happened to "I'm not into LTRs!"?
Paulie grumbles something unintelligible into her pint. Victoria smiles sympathetically at her.
Allison and Jake return out of breath and laughing. Allison notices that Misha is getting cozy with another woman at another table while Paulie is nurse her half drunk pint and a sour face.
Allison: Trouble in paradise?
Victoria: Something like that.
Allison: Hey Paulie why don't you dance with Victoria?
Victoria's eyes widen. She subtly shakes her head negatively.
Paulie: She doesn't want to dance she having too much fun at my expense.
Paulie glares at Misha seductive overtures to her new friend. The woman places her hand on Misha's hip and slips down to playfully pat Misha butt. Paulie quickly notes the woman's height and weight, confident that even though her reflexes were compromised by all the ale she consumed, she could take the date stealing wench down with one well placed punch. Paulie smiles ominously.
Paulie: You think Misha would gyrate her body back over here if I dunked her new friend's head in the toilet?
Allison's eyes widen.
Jake looks about nervously. He didn't want to be in the center of a maelstrom at a dance club. He shuddered as he imagined the morning headlines.
Victoria noted the deep maniacal thinking behind Paulie's beautiful, drowsy brown eyes. It amazed Tori that after all these years, Tori's ability to read Paulie's mind hadn't changed. Paulie squinted then rubbed the back of her hand across the bridge of her nose. This seemly innocent gesture indicated to Tori that Paulie is planning something very unpleasant. Tori didn't want the wonderful evening to end with bailing anyone out of jail.
Victoria: Let's not and say you did.
Pause.
Victoria: Dance with me.
Paulie scowled at Tori then aimed her pout in Misha's general direction.
Victoria (repeats): Dance with me.
Paulie initially waves Tori off choosing between several devilish mental scenarios. Paulie glances back at at Victoria, who stands with her hand out. Paulie reluctantly stands and guides Tori to the dance floor with her eyes on Misha's every move.
A soulful Ben Watt music creation pumps through the sound system. On the dance floor, under flashing lights, Paulie and Victoria move together in sync but Paulie can't see anything but Misha and the date stealing wench.
Victoria: You know she's just trying to make you jealous?
Paulie: She's succeeding.
They dance to the beat keeping in time with each others rhythm. The music tempo slows down. Paulie steps closer and places her hands to rest on Victoria's hip and shoulder.
Paulie: Do you think I should try to make her jealous?
Victoria: Don't play games Paulie. If it's meant to be, it will happen - you don't have to force it.
Paulie: Hey how'd you get so wise?
Victoria: I just remembered to relax. Seeing you again helped me to remember that.
Paulie: Well then, let's celebrate your self discovery!
Paulie focuses all her attention on her old school chum and ex-girlfriend as they laugh dancing to the energetic music.
Under the shower, lathered from head to toe, Allison slowly woke up and got the kinks out of her neck and spine. Mission accomplished, the headache was history.
She got dressed noting the time: It was 7 A.M. The boys were already getting up when she started making their breakfast.
They nosily ran into the breakfast nook to gobble down their hot cereal. Jake finally made his presence known with just awaken eyes and bed head, scratching his toned belly.
Allison: Jake hit the shower. I want to drive Tori to the airport. She has a noon flight.
Jake (yawning): You need me to drive her?
Allison: I'll do it. Just watch the boys until I get back.
Jake: Yes boss.
He heads off to the shower.
Allison: Smart aleck.
It was a slim hope since Tori seemed comfortable with the fact that Paulie's affection for her last night was strictly platonic.
Allison grabbed some coffee and muffins since her big sister was notoriously a late sleeper. Tori was never a morning person. Her duties as a surgical nurse were normally scheduled for afternoon and evening procedures to match her personality.
Allison reached her sister's hotel room and knocked loudly but there was no sign of life from within. Allison knocked some more calling out Tori's name. A few others hotel guest's doors on the floor opened in curiosity to the sounds but no response was forth coming from her sister's room.
Allison began to get worried. She remembered that they dropped her sister off first last night before going home.
No wait that wasn't right.
Paulie took Victoria and Misha home. Jake and Allison came home alone. What could have happened to Tori? Why wasn't she in her room? It was 8 A.M. and she had a flight at 12 noon. Allison thought to call Paulie but quickly remembered that she didn't have her cell phone number and she didn't want to wake up Ms. Vaughn.
Allison saw the floor maid coming out of a room she cleaned. She asked the maid to open the door of her sister's room to which the maid refused until minutes later, Allison assured the maid's supervisor and the hotel manager that her sister was the guest in the room and she was worried about her whereabouts.
The maid unlocked the door to Tori's room and moved along to her next assignment not wanting to get involved further.
Allison enter the darken room. She noticed a large mass on the bed and heard the faint sounds of light snoring. Annoyed that her sister was oversleeping, Allison set the bag of now lukewarm coffee on the table and opened the blinds to let some sunlight into the room. When she turned to wake and berate her sister, Allison noticed that her sister was already slightly wake but she held a single finger over her lips as a signal to Allison to keep quiet.
This was strange since the snoring hadn't stopped. Allison walked over to the bed initially shocked to find Paulie curled up in a fetal position, deep in sleep beside Tori who was watching over her, affectionately, gently rubbing stray hairs off Paulie's forehead and away from her closed eyes.
Allison (whispers): Why am I destined to always find the two of you sleeping together? What the hell happened last night?
Victoria (whispers): Paulie tried to take Misha home. They had a shouting match. Misha left with her new friend.
Allison (whispers): What??
Victoria (whispers): Paulie was too smashed. I suggested we all share a taxi. Misha was too angry to listen so she took off. I told Paulie to sleep it off here.
Allison (whispers): Didn't you hear me banging on the door?
Victoria (stretches): I woke up when you opened the blinds.
The snoring stops.
Paulie purrs and stretches. Smacking her dry lips together she rubs her eyes and opens them bewildered by the presence of both Allison and Victoria in her room. Paulie looks around the room and notices that she was still dressed in her fatigues and not in her room.
A familiar awkward silence fills the hotel room.
Paulie: A threesome with sisters… I'm a legend!
Appropriately, Victoria smacks Paulie with a pillow a few times. Allison narrows her eyes then grabs another pillow from the disheveled bed and smacks Paulie with hers as well.
Paulie: Hey just kidding. Stop! Stop!
Paulie can't scramble away fast enough as the soft blows pummeled against her body.
Sated their retribution was swift and just, the two sisters end their pillow assault as abruptly as it began with Paulie rumbled on the floor looking up wide eye at both of them.
She made a mental note not to make inappropriate sexual jokes at their expense in the A.M. hours - it just isn't safe.
Victoria smiled thinking of how she woke up earlier in the morning next to Paulie, that moment was a balm to her heart and mind.
Allison pumped her for questions the entire ride to the airport and while Victoria had her carryon bag checked by airport security. But there wasn't any particularly juicy revelation beyond the fact the Victoria and Paulie were slowly building upon a lost friendship.
For the first time in a long time, Victoria was honest to herself about what she wanted and what she could expect. Paulie seemed content to have her friend back not her ex-lover. So much time had passed since they were school aged girls, Victoria was certain she was a faint physical memory in Paulie's sensuous quest. And it was surprisingly ok. Paulie's resurrection seem to give Victoria a sense of what was missing in her life - living it.
Victoria was genuinely sympathetic to Paulie's misadventures with Misha, for Paulie's sake. Ironically, Misha reminded Victoria of her ex-husband Daniel, who firmly believed in molding people to his whims - a recipe for disaster. Beyond those judgments, Victoria was determined upon entering her life to reclaim it, live it and she had Paulie to thank for it.
As Paulie vaulted over the downed tree trunk, landing on her left lead leg she bounced downhill along the uneven terrain, her wise brown eyes noticed the deer darting into the dense brush on her left and the couple of field mice scurrying away under foot on her right. She loved being in the woods, close to nature. In her element she picked up the pace as her makeshift running trail took an abrupt incline. Her breathing and heart rate settled into a steady rhythm.
Pleased with how her forty year old body still performed, she pondered why with her annoyance at Misha's childish disloyalty the thought of seeing Victoria again dissipated all her feelings of ill-will towards both Misha and the numerous daydreams of retribution aimed at that date stealing woman.
When Paulie danced with her old school mate the years seemed to lift off Tori's face. Paulie was glad she finally had a chance to talk with Tori about her suicide attempt. Paulie was concerned that Tori seemed too drawn into herself when she saw her walking towards the chapel with Allison on Sunday morning. Paulie was milling around and wanted to stay out of sight, knowing her presence was probably unnerving to Tori.
Paulie swore Tori must have sensed her presence when she looked around just missing her twice when Paulie would duck behind some tall object or when she sat down out of Tori's eyesight inside the chapel.
Paulie knew that she shared a special bond with Victoria when they were school mates but Paulie's bond with Tori warped her sense of perspective. Having no one, no family in her life, Paulie clung to Tori as a life line. When Tori understandably wanted to sever their bond to preserve her sense of self and to protect her place in her family, Paulie realized now what she couldn't see all those years ago - Tori had quite a lot to lose, most importantly her family.
Over the weekend, Paulie noticed how close Tori and Allison were despite the difference in their ages. Paulie had no one and nothing to lose, or so she thought, not realizing in that destructive recursive thinking that she lost her most precious possession - herself.
During her recovery since her suicide attempt, Paulie vowed to herself to never lose sight of the uniqueness of herself and since has eschewed any notion of intimacy where she would lose herself into another. Others called it commitment and intimacy, Paulie considered it self annihilation - which she enthusiastically backpedalled away from.
The campus of Perkins loomed into view below her as she slowed down to a jog. Even at the distance she was away from the center of the campus, Paulie could see Misha milling about the horticultural center. She narrowed her eyes as she approached.
Paulie: So you're alive.
Misha kneeling over some potted plants she wanted to prepare for her students to cultivate in the next class, turned to face Paulie who emerged out of the woods like some nature goddess. The sheen of sweat on her toned arms and legs drove Misha's libido into overdrive but she wanted to punish Paulie for not paying attention to her last night.
She would have returned to the table and allowed Paulie to take her home if that Victoria trollop hadn't danced with Paulie. They looked too cozy together and Misha didn't like it one bit.
Misha: No thanks to you. What's going on between you and that Victoria woman?
Paulie: She's an old school mate. We attended Perkins when we were kids. So did her sister Allison.
Misha: Yeah right and I'm Queen Elizabeth. You to were too comfortable on that dance floor to be just school mates!
Paulie: We were lovers when we both attend Perkins but I hadn't seen her in years and if I recall I took YOU on a date not that date stealing chick you left with!
Misha: Nothing happened between us if it's any of your business, She took me home then soon left. But the question is where'd you end up last night because you weren't here, I called Paulie!
Paulie: I ended up at Tori's hotel.
Misha: You got some nerve… when you're sleeping with you ex!
Paulie: I slept beside her. After all that ale, I was so over my tits… I crashed on her bed but I didn't sleep with her. I would have bestowed that honor on you if you had taken the cab with us.
Misha: Some honor. I'm not a third wheel Paulie.
Paulie walked closer as Misha stood.
Paulie: I didn't say you were. We would have dropped Tori at the hotel and continued on to your place.
Misha: You're so sure of yourself, aren't you?
Paulie: You live closer to the dance club.
Misha took the opportunity to stand closer. Face to face she replied: I'm not into kinky arrangements Paulie. If you're into threesomes you can count me out.
Paulie: I got that out of my system a long long time ago. Everyone's gotta be smashed outta their heads for it to work out properly. Besides it isn't all its cracked up to be - if you're sober, you get confused about which one is doing what not and then someone invariably feels left out - in the end, it's a recipe for disaster.
Misha: I'm both concerned and a bit turned on that you know all that.
Paulie lightly kisses Misha on the lips before moving on to the main building and her soon to be hot shower.
Paulie (wiggles her eyebrows): Let's build on you being turned on.
Misha smiles seductively at Paulie as she jogs away to the main building.
To Be Continued. . .