Friday, 28 April 2023

Wish Upon A Well

 by Michelle

Note: The main theme of this story was inspired by the premise for a possible second-season episode of the Beauty and the Beast series, which had never been developed into a script and filmed. The idea was suggested by Virginia Aldridge.
This story appeared first in the "Together Forever Vol. VI: When You Whispered My Name" Treasure Chamber onzine in 2022.

To my grandmother.

 ※※※※※

 

“That’s it; you’re last again, slowpoke!” Samantha chirped, grinning at Geoffrey, her hands on her hips in a victorious manner.
“That’s not fair…,” her friend moaned, catching his breath. “You’ve got longer legs.”

The girl challenged him with raised eyebrows - they were almost of the same height. As their eyes met, both children burst into laughter. The rest of their friends joined them, and the happy sound filled the warm early-autumn air in Central Park that Sunday afternoon.

“Give up, Geoffrey,” suggested Zach. “You can never win against her; even I can’t, and I can outrun anyone.”
“But I bet she can’t hide as well as we do,” countered Kipper, the youngest, with an assured grin.
“Try me!” The girl was not fazed by his challenge. “Zach, you count, the rest of us will hide.”

The oldest member of the group chuckled. Kids...  
“Okay, as always, I’ll count to 50, then I’ll start searching. If I don’t find someone in half an hour, we’ll meet here again.”

The children nodded in agreement. Zach turned his face towards the nearest tree, closed his eyes and started counting.

Everyone ran in a different direction - Geoffrey started running without properly knowing where he wanted to hide. He was counting along in his mind. When he made it to thirty, he slowed down, looking around him to find some good place to hide.

As he was walking under a majestic elm tree, he stopped in his tracks. Right in front of him, only a few feet away, as if by magic, appeared an old, stony well with an ornamental wrought-iron roof.

The Wishing Well…, he thought with widened eyes. He’d heard about it once but had never seen it until now. It was almost as if it was only a story that the people in the Tunnels passed on from generation to generation. The sight itself was enchanting, but the reason that made the tunnel child stop was the figure he spotted at the well.

A grey-haired man in his early sixties was leaning against a walking stick and looking at a photo in his hand. He was dressed in an old-fashioned brown suit, probably from the early 60s, and he was holding a brown hat with the brim turned down in front. Geoffrey had seen such an outfit only once… when Father went up top on his ill-fated short trip.

However, the man’s face was what caught the boy’s attention the most. Its square shape with a wide forehead and jaw could have suggested strength and leadership qualities. Yet, the melancholic, longing look of his dark eyes gave it a much softer expression. Hidden partially behind the nearest tree, Geoffrey strained his ears as much as possible. He heard the quiet words coming out of the man’s mouth as if he was talking to some invisible companion. Those quiet words hit him somewhere deep inside his still childlike soul. He couldn’t understand a word of it, for the language was foreign to the boy’s ears, but the painful tone of the man’s voice and the solitary tear running down his cheek spoke a language understandable by anyone in the world.

Geoffrey was contemplating silent retreat when the man took out a coin from his trouser pocket, and after a brief moment of observing it, he threw it into the well. Then he wiped away the tear from his face, and with a deep sigh, he slowly walked to sit down on the nearest bench.

The tunnel boy was deep in thought as his sensitive brown eyes followed the mysterious stranger. What strange fate could have marked this man so painfully? Was there anyone in his life to help him with whatever it was that saddened him? Or was he all alone, walking through life as a lonesome strider?

Hide-and-seek forgotten, Geoffrey slowly turned, and unable to return from his brooding, his feet set out for the walk back towards the Tunnels.

※※※※※

“Geoffrey?” A curious, gravelly voice broke the silence in the chamber.

The boy was startled at such a sudden interruption of his thoughts. He noticed that the literature lesson had already ended and all the other children were gone, leaving him alone with his tutor, who was watching him intently while holding a volume of Frances H. Burnett’s TheSecret Garden in his hands.

The pupil shook his head apologetically. “I’m sorry, Vincent. I was thinking about something.”
I can see that you have something on your mind. Would you like to share what’s troubling you?”
Geoffrey sighed, and a worried expression appeared on his gentle face. “It’s this man I’ve seen in the park,” he started. “He seems very sad and lonely. I wish I could help him.”

Vincent listened to the whole story of the mysterious park visitor with genuine interest. His little friend’s compassion for the stranger made him smile - Geoffrey had always been a sensitive child.

“So you have seen the man twice more?” Vincent asked.
”Yes, always on a Sunday, at about the same time, in the afternoon,” confirmed the boy. “He comes to the well, stands there for a while, then sits down on a bench nearby and holds the photograph in his hands. Do you think there is a way we could help him somehow?”

“That might be very difficult,” replied Vincent truthfully. “We don’t know the man’s name, where he lives, or anything about the photograph you saw in his hands, not who is in it.”
After a brief moment of silence, Geoffrey spoke with conviction. ”If anyone can do it, it’s you. You can do anything.”

Moved by such faith in his abilities, Vincent smiled and seeing his little friend’s unusual determination, it was clear he at least had to try. After all, the past year had proved to him that nothing was impossible…
“Perhaps there is a way,” he stated with a smile.

Geoffrey’s face lit up with gratitude… and hope.

※※※※※

The night was pleasantly mild. It seemed the late summer was trying to reclaim its reign from autumn. The dark sky over the city was sprinkled with twinkling stars, visible quite clearly from places Vincent was leading Catherine through.

“I don’t think we have ever walked this way,” she remarked with a curious smile, glancing at him as they strolled hand in hand through Central Park.
“There are many pathways in the park leading to various places,” Vincent replied enigmatically and tightened his hold on her hand a little. “I’ve spent countless nights throughout my life here, and yet I continue to discover ways and places I have not set foot upon before.”

Catherine’s contented, blissful expression revealed how fond she was of their walks, exploring the park together. Recently, these night walks had become more frequent, weather permitting, and she thoroughly enjoyed them.

Joe would have a fit seeing me out here so late, she thought, with an amused smile.

She was fully engrossed in the delight of breathing in the pleasantly mild air, listening to the sound of their own footsteps, rustling gently in the grass, and the calming sound of the tree leaves moving in the light breeze. It came almost as a shock to her when Vincent suddenly halted.

“This is my latest discovery,” he said and pointed to the well a few meters ahead. Even in the darkness of the night, Catherine saw the beautiful and intricately shaped cast-iron roof of the unusual object, one rarely seen in a public park.

“Oh, it’s beautiful! I never knew there was a well in Central Park,” she admitted curiously, wide-eyed.
“It looks like it was made sometime in the late 19
th century…”
“Not long after the park was officially opened, yes,” added Vincent, proving his great knowledge of his second home.
“Why would someone build a well in a public park?” Catherine wondered.

The lion-man chuckled, glancing into the dark depth of the well. “People in the Tunnels talk of legends, almost magical stories about it, most regarding unfulfilled love. Some of the older Tunnel dwellers swear that those who express their deepest wish  here will always have that wish fulfilled.”

“How come you never found it before?” the woman by his side asked, secretly in awe that there was something Vincent hadn’t known about.
“There is no sign of it on any map. Apparently, only people who truly need it will find it at just the right time,” he explained with a smile.
Catherine couldn’t suppress a smile of her own. “Do you believe in it, in its power?”
“Believing in something with all your heart is half of the making of a dream come true,” he replied, regarding her fondly.

The look in Catherine’s eyes softened as she regarded his exotic yet attractive face in the moonlight - she had her own, secret dream… or maybe not so secret. Their eyes met for a moment. Then Vincent looked away, breaking the intensity heating up the air between them.

“It was Geoffrey who told me where to find it,” he spoke after a moment and told her the boy’s story about the old man, making clear the real purpose of bringing Catherine to the well.
“And you don’t know the man’s name or where he lives?” she inquired.
“No. Geoffrey says he couldn't make out what the man was saying, only that he looked very depressed and lonely,” Vincent stated, his eyes fixed on the deep darkness inside the well, which was covered by a heavy cast-iron grate.

A resolved expression appeared on Catherine’s face when she spoke again. “It seems Geoffrey found the well for a reason. We must try to find out what it is.”

Vincent smiled, having expected her words. He turned his head to look into those big emerald eyes, full of life and decisiveness.
“I might have an idea.”

※※※※※
 

His feet carried him to the same place as they had every Sunday afternoon in the past five months. Ever since he had discovered the old well on his lonely walks through Central Park, he couldn’t break the habit of visiting it once a week. He was never much into magic, but since being a believer, faith was not unfamiliar to him. And faith usually walks hand-in-hand with hope. So after all, was it really so unusual that he might have believed in something as trivial in many people’s eyes as the power of a wishing well?

His only companion was his walking stick, a piece of old chestnut-brown wood with a silver handle shaped like the head of an eagle. He had needed it ever since he had tripped on the stairs and broken his hip a few years ago. The recovery didn’t go as he had hoped for.

Unhurried, the man made his way to the well, leaning against it with a sigh of relief. A habit can become a great comfort, be it even a minor one. He took an old, lightly-stained photograph from his jacket pocket.

So here we are, again...

His thumb caressed the woman’s face in the photograph, his eyes closed, and his lips started moving in quiet prayer. Minutes passed as a light breeze played with the short strands of his grey hair, and only the sound of children’s laughter broke the train of his thoughts after he had finished his prayer.

He opened his eyes to the scene in the photograph again. It brought a bittersweet smile to his lips. Long, bony fingers reached inside his jacket pocket again, this time they fished out a dime. He dropped the coin into the well and watched it fall through the grate, waiting for the familiar distant splashing sound. Once he heard it, a deep sigh put an end to his ritual. He turned and made his way over to the bench nearby. Once he rested on it, his dark eyes found the well again, and his mind began to drift away.

“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” a soft feminine voice gently interrupted his contemplation.

When he turned toward the direction of the voice, he saw the face of a beautiful young woman with big emerald eyes, regarding him with the warmest smile he had seen in a while.
“I… yes, it is,” he agreed, surprised.
“I’ve heard that this well makes people’s wishes come true,” Catherine continued.

The old man chuckled and glanced at the object in question again. “Yes, so I’ve heard,” he replied quietly. Catherine noted the sadness in his voice.
“May I sit down?” she asked.
“Please,” the man answered with an unsure, slightly raspy voice, though genuinely glad.  Since his early retirement, it had been a while since he had spoken to someone other than a mailman or a shop assistant. He still didn’t feel brave enough to start a conversation. His unexpected companion solved that problem for him.

“I’ve often walked in Central Park since I was a child, and my parents brought me here on Sundays. But I had never seen this well until recently,” she remarked casually.
“I discovered it randomly a few months ago, on one of my walks,” he shyly braved an answer.
“A friend showed it to me. He always manages to surprise me with things and places I’ve never seen before,” Catherine added with a revealing smile.

The old man noticed the twinkle in her eyes as she spoke. The heartfelt and kind tone of this woman’s voice and the warmth in her eyes suddenly made him feel more comfortable. Barely used to socialising in the last few years, all at once, he craved it like a child craves sweets when looking at them in a candy store window.


”Correct me if I’m wrong, but I have a feeling this friend of yours is… special to you,” he noted, a hint of melancholy appearing on his face.

Catherine reprimanded herself mentally for allowing her emotions to run away with her. She shook her head bashfully. “You are not wrong,” she replied and smiled. “He is everything to me… By the way, my name is Catherine.”

“John is mine,” the man answered and gentlemanly shook her hand, nodding briefly.

Suddenly, she sensed that the door to solving the mystery was opening. “Do you have anyone who means everything to you, John?”
With the blink of an eye, the man’s face grew sad as he lowered his eyes, pinning them to the ground. “I did once…,” came the answer, “a long time ago.”
Hearing the pain in his voice, Catherine felt deep sympathy for the man by her side.
“What happened?” she asked the simple, the most logical question.

He raised his eyes to her and seeing the genuine interest in this stranger’s beautiful eyes, a feeling of resignation came over him. Wordlessly, he reached for the photograph in his pocket and passed it to her.

“She was the most wonderful woman I have ever known,” John started, leaning back with a sigh, and his eyes wandered into the distance ahead. “We lived in the same village, attended the same school, shared the same friends. She was smart, witty, elegant…

“Her family wasn’t rich, but she always managed to make the most out of the least, creating magic. And how she loved to laugh! Her sense of humour was one of the things I loved most about her, especially when she played pranks on others,” he laughed. “Nobody was safe with her, but she would never go as far as hurting someone.”

He looked at the woman in the photograph again and grew earnest once more. “We were only children when WWII started, but we would spend as much time in each other’s company as we could, along with the rest of our circle of friends. You don’t ignore the fact that something horrifying is going on around you, but you try to find a silver lining in each cloud, even the darkest one…

“It was surely different for the Americans, at least during the first years, but when you were growing up in Europe and had war right at your doorstep, your life was no walk through a rosy garden, I can tell you that.”

Catherine was listening intently, slowly being swept away by melancholy. However, John’s last words brought a small smile to her face. “I had a feeling you were not a born American,” she remarked warmly.
Her companion chuckled. “I know. Even after more than forty years, I still can’t get rid of my Polish accent.” He glanced at her with an amused smile, shaking his head.
“It’s nothing to worry about,” Catherine reassured him. “In the end, we are all children of this Earth, regardless of our accent, descent, or the way we look… I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt you,” she apologised, eager to hear more.

“No harm done, young lady.” John smiled, ready to continue. “Well, anyway… A year after the beginning of the war, our parents understood things were not looking good for us and like so many, they decided to pack up and take their loved ones away from Poland. They had to spend all of their savings. It was a very arduous journey, but we made it somehow. New beginnings are always difficult, especially in a strange country, and we didn’t speak the language at first. However, with hard work, we managed to settle down and find a new home.”

“I can imagine you missed Poland anyway,” remarked Catherine with compassion.
“Of course, not a day had gone by when I didn’t think about returning there someday. But life was busy, years passed, and now… I guess I got too settled here in the end.”

A small smile told her that John had truly accepted life in his second home. There was still more to find out, though. “What happened with both of you then?”

“She was resolved to become a teacher. A few years after the end of the war, she started working at the local school for Polish children, teaching English, Math, and Biology. I helped my father, who was a carpenter by trade. He managed to open his own business after a few years of working for a kind man who employed him soon after we had arrived in New York.“

John stretched his legs, and for a moment, he was basking in the sun, which veiled the late afternoon park in a golden glow.

Catherine allowed him to take a breather and fixed her eyes on the photograph that she was still holding. In it, there was a beautiful, gentle-faced young woman in a black period dress, in the arms of a young, dark-haired man, dressed in an elegant dark suit, white shirt and a black bowtie. They were gazing at each other, and although they were not smiling, the intensity of their connection and the underlying emotions were palpable.

“That photo was made at a ball organised by our school three years after the war had ended. We thought it would be fun if we borrowed period costumes from the local theatre group of which we were members.” He smiled again. “My, my, she was some actress! I always thought she should have become a professional… Well, there was a photographer at that ball. I don’t know how, but I finally found the courage to ask her to dance with me. I had danced with other girls before, but this…”

“This was about dancing with someone you had true feelings for,” Catherine finished with empathy.
John looked at her with a sad smile and sighed. “Yes… although she didn’t know…”
“Why?” Catherine couldn’t comprehend.
”I guess I never thought I was… worthy… interesting… good enough to be more to her than just a good friend. I didn’t think I could give her everything she deserved…”

Catherine felt a sting somewhere under her left ribs. The words felt too familiar, as if about someone she knew and cared deeply for. “I think I can understand,” she stated quietly, with a distant look.
“No offence, but how could you?” John raised his eyebrows with a small smile.
She chuckled and sighed. “Trust me, you’re not the only one with confidence issues.”

He narrowed his dark eyes, studying her profile with interest. There was something fascinating about this woman, and very comforting. Catherine returned his inquisitive look, telling herself that despite being in his early sixties, the man next to her still possessed great charm. And judging by the photograph, he indeed had been a good-looking young man once.

“In any case, we finally made it to the dance floor together, but then Alina spotted - oh, I apologise, “ John changed the topic suddenly. “I didn’t mention her name! Well, now you know. Anyway, she spotted the photographer nearby, taking pictures of the couples in the room. She said, ‘Janusz, let’s have a picture taken to mark this lovely day!’ So we did.”

He noticed Catherine’s curious expression. “Janusz is my Polish name. I changed it sometime after I came to America. John is easier to spell,” he explained, drawing an understanding smile from her. “That photograph is the only image I have left of her…”
“What happened?” she inquired with interest.
John absently played with the eagle head on his walking stick. “Two years later, she met someone.”

Silence befell them immediately as if nothing else needed to be said. The pain behind those few words expressed a whole range of emotions weighing on him.
"Were you sure she didn’t feel the same way about you as you did about her?” Catherine asked eventually.

A sigh preceded his words. “She never said anything. We spent a lot of time together in the final school years, but things changed once we both started working. She met new people and one of them was her future husband. He was a good man, I’ll give him that - polite, intelligent, kind, well-behaved. Not rich either, but Alina never looked at people for their money. They spent more and more time together and two years after they first met, I was already a guest at their wedding…

“After another year, they moved to Rhode Island, where he got a better job. Alina and I wrote to each other for a couple of more years, but somehow we drifted apart with time. I guess Providence wanted it that way.”

Catherine shuddered at his words. Providence... Rhode Island... She too got offered a better job in Rhode Island once, and like Alina, she too chose to follow her heart - by staying in New York. Would she have become a solitary, lonely wanderer like John, roaming the streets and parks almost two hundred miles away, if she had left back then?

“I’m sorry,” she said with compassion after her quiet contemplation.
“I’m not,” her companion countered. “I got to spend many years in her presence, shared her joys and sorrows, and forged a friendship that neither time nor space could erase from my mind. I do have regrets, but mostly, I am grateful.”

A small smile settled on his face before his eyes travelled into the distance again.
”People always say, ‘I wish I could see you at least one more time’… Sometimes it sounds so trivial, so insignificant, trying to change something that can’t be changed… and yet I can’t help but wish the same, at least to know she’s well and satisfied with her life. I know it will never happen, though. Too much time has been lost,” he concluded with a sigh.

The azure blue of the sky above them started fading in the late afternoon hour.
“Nothing is ever lost,” Catherine spoke gently into the cooling air, watching two thrushes exploring a patch of grass. “With love, all things are possible…”


※※※※※
 

On that quiet, peaceful afternoon, Vincent climbed the circular staircase to the upper level of his father’s chamber. The patriarch’s main library was his destination, and he knew that the volume he was looking for was not among the countless book piles scattered everywhere around the lower chamber level. It was in one of the several tall bookcases, with neatly organized editions on the shelves. Vincent used to spend hours there as a boy, always excited by the prospect of immersing himself in a new, foreign place and a new adventure.

“I really need more proper shelves in here,” Jacob’s voice suddenly flew up to him from below.
“That’s what you said last year already,” Vincent remarked. “And the year before. In fact, you say that at least once a year every year, whenever you get new books from the Helpers.”
“Well, yes, but this time I truly mean it. This place needs some order. I will need to have a word with Cullen,” came the reply, filled with conviction.
“I’ve heard that before, as well,” Vincent stated quietly, smiling. 

“Anyway… are you looking for anything specific?” the patriarch asked from behind his dark-rimmed glasses, changing the topic.
Odyssey,” his son answered, his sharp eyes skimming through the spines on the nearest shelf.
“A-ha, I see,” Jacob replied, making his way up to join Vincent. “Your heart is crying for some Greek drama. Since you were twelve, you have read it only… ten times.” He chuckled.
“As you always say, Father… ‘Good books are like good friends that we love returning to’,” the younger man remarked fondly.

Jacob reached for a volume on the shelf in front of him. “Of course.” He passed the book to Vincent and raised his eyebrows. “Even if they deal with murders, immorality, animal transformations and cannibalism,” he added with a grin, amusing them both.
“But it also deals with life’s journey and the power of love,” his son contradicted softly. “One that persevered for decades, only to fight separation and all odds, to find fulfilment again.”

“Oh yes, the devoted, passionate, evergreen, undying love. I know.” Jacob’s grin faded. “The one that often makes us suffer more than we can bear,” he added with sadness, more to himself than to Vincent.
The lion-man regarded his father for a moment before he spoke. “And yet, we love anyway.”

Jacob lifted his eyes to him, briefly silenced by those few words. The corners of his mouth turned upwards as he nodded. “Quite foolishly we do.”
Vincent tilted his head, putting his hand on his father’s shoulder. ”We are all fools in love.

The knowing smile and a kiss on Jacob’s temple were Vincent’s parting gifts before he descended the stairs and quietly left the chamber with the book in his hand.

 

※※※※※
 

The Assistant District Attorney’s office was buzzing with activity on Monday morning. As Joe liked to emphasise in recent weeks, it was the high season of crime, meaning everyone had to give 110% to their work, without exception.

Catherine was browsing through one of the too many files crying for her attention, waiting on her desk. Forcing herself to focus, she was well aware of the fact that she was failing. Her mind kept returning stubbornly to the conversation she had had with her new acquaintance the day before. Suddenly, her brooding was interrupted by the thud of more files landing on her desk.

“Tough weekend, Radcliffe?” Joe raised his eyebrows.
“I’m sorry, Joe,” she apologised, fully back in the present. “My brain just shut down for a minute.”
“Yeah, a common phenomenon in this office lately,” came the sarcastic reply, accompanied by a grin. “These need a response within a week. You better tell your brain to hold off on the vacation for a bit longer.”

Catherine watched her boss turn on his heel and return to his private office. She shook her head with a loud sigh. She intended to fully focus on the file again when she spotted Rita approaching her.

“Here’s the file on the guy from the Johner case you wanted. I’m still searching for the one from the Pernell case. He’s a bit tougher to figure out, ” the computer division’s up-and-coming rising star stated from behind her large, black-rimmed glasses.

“That was quick, thank you!” Catherine accepted the file with appreciation. “You’re doing really great having been here only for a few weeks now. You’ve come at the worst time… it’s been pure madness here for the past month.”
“Well, I have big shoes to fill,” Rita replied with a humble smile. “Or so I’ve heard.”

Both women chuckled. Then Catherine looked at the piles on her desk but immediately leaned back in her chair, resignedly, shaking her head. She realised there was no way of getting back into attorney mode unless she could do something about the issue occupying her mind. Suddenly she had an idea and looked at Rita, who watched her with amusement.

“Would you have time to look up something else for me?” Catherine asked hopefully.
”When does anyone have time here? But go for it. Anything for you,” came the reassuring reply.

Catherine looked around to see if Joe was in sight, then taking a piece of paper, she wrote down something and passed it to Rita.
“I need you to see if you can find anything about this name.”


※※※※※

The rain was persistent that day and Catherine Chandler was battling her way through it with her umbrella, trying not to get drenched. She managed successfully to avoid disaster until she was almost at her destination - an old brownstone on 59th Street, on the southern side of Central Park. Just then, a cab, going past with speed that raised the eyebrows and adrenaline of the nearest passersby, gave her a shower that surpassed her morning one.

”Damn!” she cursed, frustrated, putting a few wet strands of hair behind her ear. “This better be worth it,” she muttered and walked up the few stairs leading to the front door.
She pushed one of the doorbell buttons and waited.

“Hello?” a strong woman’s voice came from the speaker.
“Mrs Kaminski?”
Yes, speaking,” was the reply.
“Hello. My name is Catherine Chandler. I’m sorry to bother you, but I would like to speak to you if you have a minute. I believe we have a common acquaintance.”

A brief moment of silence was interrupted by, “Come in, please,” and the sound of the buzzer. The click of the door followed and Catherine pushed it open.

She found herself in a long hallway decorated with a few landscapes and portrait paintings on the walls. Only a moment later, she spotted a figure appearing in front of her, standing at the door leading to another room.

It was a woman in her late 50s, dressed in a colourful flower-pattern dress with long sleeves, with a crown of short, permed and blue-rinsed hair. A delicate golden chain with a small cross around her neck completed her elegant look. Her curious, small blue eyes noticed Catherine’s state and immediately she moved toward her. Although time certainly left its marks, Catherine easily recognised the features of the young woman in John’s photograph in the face right in front of her.

“Goodness, what brings you here in such dreadful weather? Come in, you need to get dry,” said Mrs Kaminski, taking her guest’s soaked coat and umbrella. Then she drew the young woman into the living room, seating her near the crackling fireplace.

“Thank you,” Catherine said gratefully with a smile, warming her chilled hands by the fire. “I guess fall has finally arrived.”
“Tell me about it,” Mrs Kaminski said, putting a warm blanket over her young guest’s shoulders. “I realised that while playing with my flower pots yesterday. The night frosts always come earlier than I would wish them to.”

She was about to sit down in the vintage armchair by the fire when she straightened herself up again. “I apologise! Would you like anything to drink? I guess you could do with something hot. Tea or coffee perhaps?” she offered friendly.
“Coffee would be lovely,” Catherine replied gratefully. “Thank you.”
“I won’t be a minute,” assured her hostess and briskly disappeared to the kitchen.

That gave Catherine a few minutes to look around and have a brief visual tour of Alina’s life. It seemed as if time stood still in that room. The neat but not too fancy vintage furniture in natural, warm colours gave it a feel of the late 1950s. Various porcelain statuettes in a glass display, on the wall shelves, and on what looked like a very old. black grand piano, decorated the space, along with a set of crystal glasses and bowls in another glass-door display. There were more beautiful landscape paintings on the walls, but what Catherine found most interesting were the photos.

There weren’t many of them, only three - all black and white, on the mantlepiece, but they all radiated comfort and happiness. In the first one, there was a family of five in front of a Christmas tree - Catherine recognised one woman as Mrs Kaminski, probably in her early forties then. The man next to her seemed a bit older, seemingly her husband. The other three people in the photo were younger, two girls and a boy, all in their late teens. It was very likely that it was a photo of Alina with her husband and children. The second photo was a  portrait of the same older man from the first picture. An approximately three-year-old curly-haired girl with cherubic cheeks was looking out of a window in the last photograph.

“Oh, when we were still young and beautiful,” Alina’s smiling voice came from behind Catherine’s back.
“You still are,” her guest replied, turning to her with a genuine smile.
”Young people often tend to be too kind to the older ones. But thank you,” she remarked gratefully.

With a chuckle, she walked over to her guest. She put a decorative tray with a vintage porcelain coffeepot, two cups with saucers, a sugar bowl and a creamer on a side table. After making and passing Catherine her coffee, she approached the mantelpiece, observing the framed photographs.


“My children, and my late husband,” Alina said with a fond smile. “We had a good life, Eliasz and I. It was filled with love, respect and common values. We always had each other’s back… until he passed away unexpectedly almost eight years ago.” A touch of melancholy coloured her voice. “That’s when I moved back to New York. Even after thirty years of living away, I felt I had a certain… attachment to this place.”

She smiled and looked at the last photograph. “My eldest granddaughter,” she added and couldn’t suppress a giggle, affectionately observing the little girl in the picture. Suddenly she looked earnestly at Catherine.

“Excuse me, but you said we have a common acquaintance. Who did you mean?” Alina inquired curiously.
Her visitor searched for the right words for a moment.
“Yes, I…,” Catherine hesitated only briefly before taking a sip of coffee and putting the cup down. “I would like to do a favour for someone I have only recently met, and I believe you could help me.”
The older woman knitted her brows but encouraged the stranger to continue. “Go on.”

Catherine smiled, happy to have found a door open to fulfil her mission. Her warmhearted look focused on the sky-blue eyes of her hostess.
“Let me tell you a story…”

※※※※※

It was already past 11 p.m. when she hastily made her way down to the basement of her apartment building. Quickly descending the ladder, she finally landed on the concrete ground and turned around to look into the semi-darkness behind the ever-present beam of white light.

“I’m sorry I’m late. Work has been a nightmare this week,” she apologised while taking quick steps to meet the tall figure in the shadows.
“No need to apologise, Catherine. I know you’re busy,” Vincent countered with a gentle smile. The vision of her silky hair wetted by the rain, framing her face, and her coat leaving watermarks on the ground made ‘butterflies in the stomach’ sound like an understatement. It reminded him of another enchanting sight a few weeks ago.

“And just as I got out of the cab, it started pouring buckets, and I realised I forgot my umbrella in the office,” she laughed, shaking her head. “It wasn’t as elevating an experience as that time at the concert, though.”

She crossed the threshold and embraced her beloved ardently. It was the moment she was craving and waiting for all day… the most singular place… the feeling of comfort, peace and love… in his arms.

Vincent rubbed his cheek in the wet strands of her hair, smiling. “You could have sent a message. Rest is what you need most now,” he remarked with care, though secretly pleased that she had come in person.
She raised her head to look into his eyes. “This is what I need most now.”

Those words and her gaze disarmed him. “You have been successful,” he stated without hesitation, pride in her abilities colouring his voice.
Catherine’s beaming smile confirmed his theory. “I wish I could surprise you at least once without you knowing already.” She laughed, enjoying how Vincent humbly lowered his eyes.
“You surprise me every day, Catherine, never doubt that,” he replied, eventually.

She resisted the urge to do something spontaneous and returned from the clouds.
”Yes, I have been successful, and by Sunday evening, we should have the question answered.”
“What question?” he asked.
“The question ‘Are all things possible with love?’”

The excitement of the expectation in her voice was evident, though the sparkle in her eyes told him that Catherine had known the answer to that question for a long time.

 

※※※※※

The hands on his leather-strapped watch showed 5 p.m. when John approached the Wishing Well in Central Park on yet another Sunday. For a while, he was watching the still green leaves on the nearby trees sway gently in the autumn breeze. Then he took a deep breath and sighed, taking the familiar photo out of his pocket.

These trips were becoming more and more difficult for him emotionally. Why was he doing this to himself? What was he hoping for by performing this childish routine Sunday after Sunday? Why hadn’t he tried to reconnect with Alina years ago already? All these questions were invading his mind, as was one answer - he was afraid to reconnect.

Knowing he would never have been more than a friend, he feared his heart would not have been able to bear it. Yet, as the years passed, so had his longing. His voluntary loneliness had become burdensome and depressing. Some people were content living alone, or at least they could live with the reality of returning to an empty home and living mainly for their work. John was not one of those people, though. While being successful at his job and an independent individual, he was only human. He could have been a friend now.

“You silly fool,” he chided himself with a sigh and decisively put the photograph back into his pocket. “You’re too late, thirty years too late.”
It is never too late to be what you might have been,”  an emotionally-charged voice startled him from behind.

When he turned around, the image of a middle-aged, elegant woman regarding him with her hands pressed to her chest took his breath away. Time can rob us of many things, but never of recognising a beloved face.

“Alina…,” he whispered, slowly raising his hand as if to reach for her, to assure himself she was real and not only a fantasy.

Finally, encouraged by his disbelieving smile and the tears rolling down his cheeks, she slowly closed the distance between them. Her eyes were glistening, and when her own hand cautiously reached for his, he noticed it was shaking.

“Janusz…”

Not far away from them, in the shade of the old elm tree, Catherine was watching the lost and found lovers with a contented smile, deeply moved inside.
”Will she stay with him now?” asked Geoffrey, watching the scene with her.
”I think there is no doubt about that,” Catherine answered, fondly ruffling his hair. “The truth is out, and nothing separates them anymore.”

The boy felt pride in his young heart for having played a part in the successful reunion. “Everyone who loves someone should be with them, always,” he contemplated.

Catherine’s smile faded a little as she looked at him. “Sometimes it’s not so easy, Geoffrey,” she said softly, her eyes on him but her mind somewhere else. “Sometimes it takes… patience. But if we really wish for it and hold on tight to that wish… we can make it happen.”
Her little friend’s smile was contagious. “I know you can, too,” he remarked knowingly, and Catherine suddenly thought that he was growing up too fast.


※※※※※

Another pleasantly mild night descended upon Central Park, and it seemed that even more stars decided to show off their beauty to the world. It was almost midnight, but the two lovers standing at the Wishing Well were in no hurry to leave. They were leaning against it and watching the great spectacle in the dark sky above them.

"It feels so wonderful, Vincent," Catherine remarked in awe and couldn't wipe the smile off her glowing face.

"You have achieved something special, Catherine. You brought back to each other two souls who were bound together all their lives. That is something to feel wonderful about," he replied, regarding the moonlight reflecting on her happy face.

"Alina said she had always loved John, but because he never called his feelings by their true name, she didn't wish to ruin their friendship. She thought that's how he wanted it." She shook her head at the irony. "How familiar…"

A painful memory flashed in Vincent's eyes, reflecting her own - Providence, Rhode Island. It had almost parted them forever.

Catherine brought them back to the present. "Time can separate people for life, but sometimes, it can bring them together again. And it is thanks to you, that I was able to be a part of the happy ending for John and Alina," she added with a smile.
"Thanks to Geoffrey, his perceptiveness and generous heart," he corrected her modestly, though gladly sharing the triumph with her.

Catherine reached into the pocket of her denim jacket. She produced a dime and showed it to Vincent, prompting him to take it.
"For you, Vincent. Make a wish," she said with smiling eyes.
The gesture warmed his heart, but his hand gently closed her hand, which held the coin.
"Thank you, but I can't." His voice was filled with regret. "I'm afraid my wish would be too daring to come true…"

Catherine's heart ached when hearing those words, but then a bright smile replaced the melancholy on her face.
"Then I shall make a wish for both of us," she stated, her eyes locked with his for an intense moment.

She moved her hand above the grate covering the well, closed her eyes and dropped the dime in. When she opened her eyes to Vincent again, they shone with strong conviction in the moonlight. They were leaving no room for doubt. Whatever Catherine had wished for, he knew she believed in it with absolute certainty.

When her small body hid in his embrace, Vincent smiled and rested his cheek on the top of her head.
"For so many years, he couldn't forget her," Catherine pondered. "He never even married… just like Father and Margaret."

"Or Odysseus and Penelope," Vincent added, and his eyes wandered up towards the sky. "Two souls waiting for one another, parting on their common journey for a while, only to share it again in the end. No force can push true love into oblivion - not separation, not differences, not even time."

They were standing in their embrace for a while, listening to the colourful sounds of the night, each of them deep in thought. Vincent's sudden soft chuckle made Catherine raise her head. Her inquisitive look asked the question for her.

"I was only thinking," Vincent explained, amused by his own childlike urge. He then pierced her eyes with a direct gaze. "What did you wish for, Catherine?"

For a moment, she regarded him silently, finding pleasure in keeping up the suspense. Then her lips broke into a mysterious smile as her arms tightened their hold around his waist.
"You know the rules, Vincent. If I tell you, it won't come true…"

※※※※※


"Remember tonight... for it is the beginning of always."
- Dante Alighieri

Thursday, 27 April 2023

To Move Towards Love

by Michelle

Note: Certain dialogue was taken from the episode ‘Ashes, Ashes’ from the TV series Beauty and the Beast, written by Roy Dotrice & Durrell Royce Crays. 

※※※※※ 

 

What exactly were you looking for in the East River? Jacob asked the young Russian sailor when he was cleaning and treating the long cut on his arm.
Love…it’s not for politics… I show! It’s Anna… He showed proudly a small photograph of a lovely dark-haired young woman.
Oh yes, she’s very beautiful,Jacob said looking at the photo before passing it on to Vincent, who was standing next to Dimitry on the other side of the bed. He asked with his characteristic quiet raspy voice.
She … Is she here in New York?
Four years! Dimitry replied. We were… How do you say?… To marry!
Uh-huh, acknowledged Jacob while bandaging his arm carefully.

Dimitry’s passion came to the surface again.
I apply also to come! Four years I wait but is nyet! his disappointment was obvious, then he said in a calmer tone. Then Anna send me a letter… She say she has no more hope I come to America… But I come! Perhaps you understand loving so much someone…

Upon hearing the last words, Jacob looked up to him and then shot a knowing glance at Vincent, who looked back at him confirming that those words have hit home with him only too well.
Do you know where she is? Vincent asked then.
Brooklyn! Is possible you help find? Dimitry was eager to get on with his search.

Jacob’s reasonable words brought him back to earth again.
After you’ve rested for two or three days and I’m sure this is not infected. He hinted at the wound.
But is important… In letter, she say she marries…She is thinking soon! Dimitry was getting desperate again.

Vincent observed him in silence. He understood too well the despair of the man he had saved from drowning just a couple of hours before that night. He knew what it felt like when all the world around you seems to be going against you when all you wish is to have the love of your life beside you…

※※※※※
 

Later that night, Vincent stood on Catherine’s balcony. They were looking at Anna’s picture when Vincent filled her in about the events of that night.

He can never go back now, can he? He’s burnt his bridges home, all for a dream…, Catherine said with compassion.
He comes from a land of dreamers,Vincent answered.
He must love her very much… Catherine remarked and Vincent lowered his eyes thinking silently I know exactly how he feels...

"Does he know where she is?
Brooklyn,Vincent replied, looking up at her again.
Brooklyn is a big place…
This is what Father is trying to explain to him.

Catherine sighed and looked at the photo once more before looking at Vincent again with determination in her eyes and a hint of a smile.
We’ll find her for him, Vincent, I know we will…

Vincent nodded and smiled back at her wondering if he’ll ever be surprised at her always believing in everything almost impossible and in the end achieving it. It was one of the traits that made her special, what made him love her more every day.

※※※※※
 

The next morning, Jacob was changing the dressing at Dimitry’s wound, trying to persuade him into a game of chess with him. Just a few minutes before, he was smiling at the young man’s ability to engage the children, who came to watch him tell a funny and seemingly spooky story. Their laughter and amazement made the old man’s heart warm. When the children had left, he started his doctor’s routine.

Suddenly, 12-year-old Ellie, a beautiful girl, with angelic curly golden hair, entered the Hospital Chamber and asked if she could help Father in treating Dimitry. Jacob had no objection and was oblivious to the adoring look on Ellie’s face when she was gazing at the handsome Dimitry, and he smiled back at her. When the patriarch asked her to pass him something, she wasn’t listening, then suddenly ran out of the chamber.

Girls, they don’t really know what they want... Jacob thought and went on with his work.

※※※

Vincent entered the Hospital Chamber later that day and found Dimitry in a good mood. He sat down on a chair next to his bed.
I have a…. friend Above; her name is Catherine. I told her about your Anna and she said she will try to find her for you.

Dimitry’s eyes were full of gratitude as he started with his basic English.
I am very happy… to meet you, Vincent… you a good man.
Vincent smiled and bowed his head.
All of us here try to help each other and everyone who needs help for a good reason.

Dimitry nodded and smiled. Then he suddenly thought of what Vincent said at the beginning and how he said it. Catherine…. is she… a friend only?
Vincent looked up at him in surprise but after a moment he sighed, his eyes wandered into the distance as if in a dream, and he smiled.
Catherine is… more… than a friend… 
Then he glanced back at Dimitry and lowered his eyes shyly.

 A smile appeared on Dimitry’s face. 
You… more than a friend to she? he asked with genuine interest.
Yes…Vincent replied simply with a smile, but the tenderness in his voice revealed the whole depth of his relationship with Catherine.
Good!Dimitry exclaimed with a wide smile appeared and patted Vincent on his shoulder before they shared a quiet laugh.

※※※※※
 

The next day, Vincent was leading Dimitry out of the tunnels to stay with one of the Helpers until Catherine found Anna for him. He felt genuine friendship with the young sailor, admiring his determination, his fearlessness (travelling across the world risking his life and leaving everything behind just to find his love), and he clearly saw that he was a good man with a kind heart and strong values.

Is difficult leaving, Dimitry said as they were walking. “Is… How your English writer say?
Shakespeare? Vincent guessed.
Yeah!
Parting is such sweet sorrow.Vincent quoted.
Yes, it’s that! Sweet and sad. He was a little bit Russian I think.

Suddenly Dimitry stopped and started coughing strongly, leaning toward the wall. Vincent looked concerned. He noticed before that Dimitry’s breathing was getting heavier while they were walking.

Perhaps we should go back…
“I must go on!the Russian replied determined and started to walk on.
Are you strong enough?” Vincent asked gently.
Dimitry looked at him and said calmly. For Anna very strong… Is you, Vincent, understand me best of all, yes?

Vincent was contemplating saying something but he didn’t. He realised Dimitry was right. He himself threw all his usual caution away when it came to his relationship with Catherine. Had it been he instead of Dimitry, he would have done the same to find Catherine, even if it meant going to Hell and back. Besides, he could ask Peter to check on the young man later. Therefore, he just bowed his head and continued walking with him.

Dimitry smiled and patted him on his shoulder.
Is a little bit of Russian in you too!

※※※※※

Catherine was browsing through a file with documents about one of the cases she was working on but not really focusing on them, She was trying to figure out how to tell Dimitry that all his perilous journey was done in vain and he came too late, that his Anna married another man just that day, as Catherine finally located Anna’s address.

She was deep in thought when Benny, the sandwich guy, stormed into the DA’s office with his little cart.
Sandwiches! Home-made sandwiches! Right here!
He made his way through to Catherine’s desk.

Sandwich, lady?
Do you have chicken salad? Catherine asked.
Try this one, Benny said putting a sandwich in front of her. On the house, he added and winked.

At that moment, Joe appeared at the desk and tried to grab and look at the sandwich but Benny softly slapped his hand.
Eh-eh!! For you, I got anchovies loaf...
Joe looked a bit perplexed but then started checking his sandwich and discussing the others with Benny.

Meanwhile, Catherine opened hers and found a tiny folded note inside. After reading it, she looked a little puzzled, then stood up, grabbed her coat and handbag and made ready to leave the office.
Her boss looked at her and asked, surprised. Where are you going?

She glanced at both men and finally said, Lunch… And she walked away.

※※※ 

Only half an hour later, she parked her car in the garage of an abandoned old warehouse. She got out and waited patiently, not really sure what to expect. It was not the first time that Benny had delivered her a note to meet a Helper, but before, there was always an explanation why. This note didn’t mention the reason.

What is going on? she thought, just slightly unnerved. She was trying to persuade herself that if Vincent was in danger, she would feel it as she felt it when he was trapped in the Maze with Father. But she couldn’t feel anything like that through their bond, so she settled for waiting for an explanation.

Suddenly, a small black van with tinted windows drove into the warehouse and stopped not far from her. She heard the door open and a man stepping out on the other side of the van. When he approached her and looked at her, she wasn’t sure which one of them was surprised more.

Peter?! she cried, with a shocked smile.
Cathy?! a tall older man in his 60s, in a suit, replied with the same surprised expression. What on Earth are you doing here??
Catherine frowned a little. The message said to meet a… Helper…

Peter’s eyes grew bigger as he pointed at her in amazement. You?!
Catherine smiled and nodded.
No wonder you have been so secretive this past year! Peter added.

He had known Catherine since she was a baby (in fact, he delivered her and had been their family doctor ever since) and the revelation of her being involved with the world Below filled in a lot of gaps in her life since her attack.

Catherine was astonished. Peter… How long have you been involved? she asked.
Right from the beginning. Jacob and I went to medical school together. Someday we’ll sit down and I’ll tell you all about it but right now, there are more pressing matters to take care of.

He opened the boot of the van to reveal loads of boxes with medical logos on them.
I brought as much as I could, I’ll bring the rest as soon as possible. It’s not easy to get this amount without all the questions.
Catherine looked at the boxes, trying to figure out why they need so many medical supplies down Below. What’s all this??

Peter started naming different drugs and medical items when it suddenly hit him.
My God, you don’t know what’s going on down there, do you?
Catherine was getting worried. Tell me, what is it??
It’s very bad, it’s an epidemic… Cathy, it’s a pneumonic plague!

Catherine opened her mouth in horror and she felt her heart clamping. But in a moment, she said decisively when closing the boot and walking to the van’s driver’s seat. I’ll bring them the drugs right away.
You don’t understand! They’ve sealed themselves off, it’s a strict quarantine! Peter tried to bring her to reason.
You vaccinated me for plague when I went to Asia.
Two years ago! Without booster shots… No, it’s impossible!

Catherine started the engine, slammed the door shut behind her with only the window pulled down and then looked at Peter with determination.
One thing I’ve learned from Vincent - nothing is impossible!
And with that thought, she drove off and left Peter standing there and wondering.

※※※

Only a little later, Mouse and Jamie passed Jacob and ran into the corridor before the Hospital Chamber with boxes in their hands. 

Thank God!the patriarch exclaimed, relieved. His face froze when he turned and saw Catherine standing next to him with another box. Catherine, you shouldn’t have come here!
How could I stay away?! she countered.
Pneumonic plague is the most contagious form of this disease! The risk---
---is mine to take!she finished the sentence for him.

Jacob could see in her eyes that any arguing would be just a waste of time. He knew the main reason why she couldn’t stay away.
He’s going to kill me...
Nodding with resignation, he led her into the chamber.

Catherine knew the Hospital Chamber from before, but she had never seen more than one person in the many beds ready for patients there. Therefore, when she saw almost all the beds occupied now, she shuddered in fear. These were her friends…

Dimitry is dead… Jacob said in a quiet deep voice.
Catherine suddenly realised one important person was missing from the scene and a shiver ran across her heart. Vincent??she looked at Jacob in panic.
He’s all right, he appears to be immune, thank God.

She closed her eyes briefly and let out a sigh of relief. Then she looked around the chamber again and took off her coat.
All right, tell me what I can do…

※※※

Vincent was tending to one of the patients, along with other tunnel dwellers helping out in the Hospital Chamber. He wasn’t aware of what was going on at the chamber entrance, for he was sitting with a young man in the opposite corner of the chamber shielded by a folding screen, changing his cold compresses. He stood up and walked to a bowl of cold water to wring the cloth he was using when he noticed Catherine doing the same thing just a few metres away from him.

Catherine! His strained voice penetrated the quiet in the chamber.

She found his eyes immediately and although she knew he would be angry, she couldn’t help herself and walked quickly to him embracing his body tightly, as if never wanting to let him go, breathing in deeply his scent, her cheek resting on his chest.

Vincent felt his anger vanishing, but fear taking its place when he held her tight and whispered into her hair with a desperate breaking voice.
You mustn’t be here, it’s dangerous! Why? Why have you come?
Catherine pulled back from him to look into his blue eyes filled with deep anguish.
You know why…
Her eyes were welling up and reflecting all the fear and worry and above all, they were overflowing with love - for him…

That was it, those three words and just one look undid Vincent and he couldn’t say anything more to keep her away. He understood now that she shut her feelings from him like she had when Paracelsus kidnapped her, to prevent him from worrying about her and not sensing her presence for as long as possible. He pulled her close to him again, rubbing his cheek in her hair and sighing. Despite the desperate situation surrounding them, and despite being terrified she would get sick, he was glad that she was there with him.

Besides, I was vaccinated against plague two years ago, there is a very small risk for me to---” She didn’t finish the sentence knowing what it would do to him.
He pulled back and looked at her with a deadly serious expression in his eyes.
All right, but you must promise me one thing… The moment you start feeling just a hint of being unwell, you must tell me or Father, you will not try to hide it, Catherine, promise me!
Her heart was deeply moved by his care, she smiled gently and her voice was barely audible when she said. I promise.

Vincent sighed again and shook his head lightly as he separated from her. He started walking back to the patient he was tending to when Catherine gently called his name. He stopped in his tracks and looked at her before she said softly.
If I had to leave this earth tonight, there is no other place I’d rather be than in your arms…” She smiled at him shyly and walked away.

Vincent couldn’t move, he could barely breathe, nor think clearly in wonder.
And I in thine, Catherine…

※※※

 

Would you like some more water, Ellie? Catherine asked leaning over the frail body on the bed.  
She remembered so vividly how, not even a year ago, she and Vincent rescued Ellie and her 8-year-old brother Eric from a foster care home selling children to a street gang, forcing them to rob people on the street.

Eric had become very agitated when Jacob took Ellie to the Hospital Chamber as he wanted to go with her. His sister stopped him and he was angry at her for leaving him when she promised she would never leave him again. In the heat of the moment, Eric said he hated her, which left Ellie very distressed and sad before the Tunnel leader took her away.

Catherine carefully put the glass of water to Ellie’s mouth and the girl took a few sips. She was getting weaker by the hour, and Catherine was getting worried about her more and more.

Eric? Ellie asked faintly.
He’s waiting outside. So far, he hasn’t shown any symptoms. Maybe he’ll be all right.Catherine replied with an encouraging smile, holding the girl’s hand.
Her hand was stroking Ellie’s hair gently and she started singing a lullaby to her.

Vincent was sitting at a girl’s bed, tenderly pulling a cover over her, when he stood up and looked around to see who else needed his care. Suddenly, his eyes landed on Catherine singing to Ellie. If he wanted to describe how this image made him feel, words would have failed him. The closest would have been beauty, miracle, love, wonder, gratitude, but also sadness and impossible dream

She was born to be a mother… But it can never be, not with me… 

A sharp feeling of sorrow stung his heart and yet, at the same time, the feeling of immense warmth was spreading in it, a warmth melting his doubts and fears, all his pain, and opening a tiny window which let in a tiny ray of light. That light was whispering to him from a far distance, yet still…

Despite everything, she chose you and wants to stay with you forever. What if …?

※※※

Catherine was wringing more cloths in a bowl of cold water when Vincent slowly walked to her and leaned against the table next to her, his intriguing eyes firmly focused on her face. Their eyes met, and for a moment they gazed at each other without words. Then Vincent broke the silence.

I watched you a moment ago with Ellie…
Catherine looked down at the bowl again, her soft blond hair covering the side of her face visible to Vincent.
My mother used to sing that song to me… I haven’t heard it since. She looked at Vincent with a smile. I think she must have made it up.

You’re remarkable, he breathed.
Catherine lowered her eyes shyly and pinned her look at the bowl again, saying with an amused voice trying to disguise how his observation touched her.
I hope you’re not talking about my singing.
No, about… how much you give to… all of us. Vincent worded his thoughts seriously.
She looked deep into his eyes, stating the simple truth.
To be able to give… is what all of you have given to me…

She averted her eyes again, hoping the hair covering her face would help to hide how deeply moved she was and how weak her knees suddenly felt when Vincent’s blue eyes were piercing hers the way they were just then. Luckily, Vincent straightened himself up and walked away slowly, deep in thought. She allowed herself a little smile.

Whenever she was thinking her feelings for him couldn’t be stronger any more, he proved her wrong with a few words, a gesture, or a look. How amazing that she, who was always so self-assured in her previous relationships, felt so shy and overwhelmed by the deep love she shared with this almost otherworldly man? Because he was the only man who really made her feel like a woman who was equal to him. Not an ornament, a buddy, or the decorative other half of someone socially important. He made her feel like a true soul mate, companion and equal partner in good and bad, in happiness and sorrow. Moreover, he didn’t put any of his dreams or ambitions above her. She was his priority.

Even after more than a year, their bond was deepening, their love for each other growing stronger and more beautiful, despite all odds thrown in their way. They had endured and she knew that no matter what the sacrifices asked of her, she would sacrifice everything gladly for him, for Vincent gave her life a true meaning.

The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.

※※※
 

Catherine was helping Father to change IV for Mouse, who has been recently brought to the chamber by Jamie and some others, after suffering plague symptoms too. Jamie noticed it when they were picking up new boxes of medicine from the warehouse and bringing them Below. She begged him to get looked at.

Suddenly, a faint cry reached their ears.
Catherine! Help me! 

It was Ellie and Catherine ran to her immediately holding her hand. The girl’s face was porcelain white, her golden hair damp from sweat, which also covered her cheeks and forehead. Her were eyes glassy and distant, as she smiled looking into the space far away, slowly recalling something that Dimitry had told her.

He said… that I was… beautiful…
Her smile faded, her breathing stopped, her lifeless eyes stayed fixed on the space behind Catherine.

At that moment, Jacob approached them quickly. Catherine felt a freezing chill run through her heart when she said with a harsh voice. Ellie?… No… No!! 
She pulled Ellie to her tightly, as horror clamped her heart. She started sobbing, gasping for air, cradling the inert body, as if trying to revive it.

Jacob sat down on the bed, reaching for Ellie’s hand when Catherine released her and her pleading eyes turned to him. He tried the girl’s pulse and when feeling nothing, his face turned into agony.
Dear God!… I’ve lost her…

Catherine looked back at Ellie, gasping for air, and couldn’t suppress the tears and pain any more. She rose up from the floor at the bed where she had been kneeling and still looking at Ellie’s dead body and shaking her head in disbelief, started stepping back. She stopped at the sudden contact with someone’s body behind her. Somewhere in the back of her mind, despite the agonising pain that grasped her heart, she recognized Vincent, who himself was trying hard to come to terms with what he had just witnessed. His arms gently embraced Catherine’s shoulders, as she turned to him covering her face and falling against his chest crying. Cradling her, he felt one of his own tears running down his cheek.

※※※

Vincent literally ordered his father to rest, taking over the responsibility of telling Eric that his sister had passed away. He knew it was going to be a difficult task, but someone had to do it and he knew that Jacob was feeling guilty for not being able to help Ellie.

When Vincent walked out of the Hospital Chamber, he found Eric kneeling there at the wall. He lowered himself down to him, leaning against the same wall and started explaining to the boy that he had some bad news, how Ellie fought hard to come back to Eric.

Sometimes bad things can happen in life and all our courage, all our love cannot change them… And all we can do is… cry… for those we have lost… and remember them always in our hearts… and go on.

Eric didn’t seem to understand. Ellie will get better. She promised!
Vincent felt tears filling his eyes, as he pulled the child up to face him, taking his hands in his.
Ellie loved you very much, Eric… We can’t always keep our promises, no matter how hard we try, no matter how much we love…
Ellie will, she’s different!

Vincent bowed his head in despair before looking up at him again.
Eric… Ellie is gone…

The realisation hit the boy like lighting. For a moment, he was just staring at Vincent and then, his little
fists started hitting Vincent’s chest in anger and frustration.
You liar! Liar! He ran away, leaving Vincent in more pain in his heart than before.

 

※※※

Father was laying in one of the beds in the Hospital Chamber resting, but he couldn’t sleep. He kept staring at the wall, trying to find the answer to a simple question. How?
His son walked in and sat down next to him.

I failed her, Vincent, the older man said absent-mindedly. How could I let a beautiful child like that die?….. She put her life in my hands.
Others have put their lives in your hands as well… Geoffrey’s sitting up, Mouse is stronger… They need you, Father. Eric needs you.

Vincent held his father’s hand tightly. Jacob sighed, running his other hand in his hair.
Eric… Ellie was the last family he had.
No, Vincent contradicted him. He has us, he has you. Only he doesn’t know it yet..

※※※

They found Eric in one of the currently unused chambers full of antique furniture and statues covered with cobwebs. He was hiding behind a folding screen. Jacob asked him what he was doing and Eric replied from behind the screen that he was writing a letter to Ellie, telling her he was sorry for saying he hated her, that he didn’t mean it.

Will she be mad at me? Eric asked anxiously.
No, I think she’ll understand.
But how am I going to send it to her?
I think I know a way…Jacob cleared his throat. I’d like to write a letter to Ellie, too… Maybe you could lend me a piece of writing paper, he added in a lighter tone.

Eric tore a sheet of paper from his notepad and his small hand passed it on to Jacob.
Vincent was watching them from a distance and he couldn’t stop the silent tears flowing.

 

※※※※※
 

Vincent could finally head back to his private chamber. After three days of helping with the sick ones, most of them were recovering and he was relieved again for a few hours by Mary, who sent him to get some rest.

He barely slept in the last forty-eight hours and with Ellie’s passing, his heart felt heavy. He desperately wished to close his eyes and sleep but even more, he wished to make sure that Catherine was all right and resting. She had been very distraught at Ellie’s passing and he could feel ripples of sorrow passing through her constantly from that moment on. Vincent and Jacob sent her to get some rest in Vincent’s chamber. He wanted to take her there, but she insisted on managing on her own. He knew she felt miserable, but he was needed with the patients.

Now, almost five hours later, he was finally able to go and see her. His legs were literally dragging along, his eyelids feeling very heavy, yet his mind was still clear and focused. He knew he couldn’t surrender to fatigue yet. In her unselfish way, she was trying hard to suppress her feelings but wasn’t successful all the time and he knew she needed him…

When Vincent finally entered his chamber, he found Catherine sitting on his bed with her arms around her knees, her head slightly down, her face pale with traces of dark rings under her eyes. The tray with sandwiches and the teapot with a teacup which William brought to her remained untouched on the table. His heart almost broke at the sight, but he knew how she was feeling. He was feeling the same.

She looked up and smiled a little. Even through her veil of sorrow, Vincent could feel through the bond that she was genuinely happy to see him. He closed the distance between them, sat down next to her and took her in his arms.

I’m here…,he whispered.
I missed you…, she whispered into his chest, her arms embracing his waist tightly.
I missed you too…
He pulled back slightly to look into the green pools of her eyes. How are you feeling?

She chuckled quietly, raising her eyebrows, and he realised how pointless the question was.
Of course, I know how you’re feeling, I always do.
He smiled and rephrased his question. What are you thinking?

Catherine smiled at him and sighed. I’m thinking why such a precious young life had to be taken away from this world, before it could even fully discover its wonders?
She didn’t expect any answer and shook her head a little, looking away.
I’m thinking how happy she was here, so bright, so kind, so full of life and love. She finally found a home…

Her eyes found his again, and her lips stretched into a bitter-sweet smile.
Vincent, she loved you very much, looked up to you… She told me she had never met a kinder, braver and wiser person than you… She never knew her father but she wished he were… like you Her eyes were full of tears again.

Vincent closed his eyes, leaning his head back a bit, and his own breath got trapped in his throat. He tried to steady himself but the fatigue, the stress, the will to stay strong for the sake of others and the emotions of the past three days were too much to handle for him. He covered his face and started sobbing quietly.

Catherine pulled his head gently on her shoulder and put her arms around his neck, with one hand stroking his back to comfort him. She has never seen this beautiful human being break down emotionally like this before and she was deeply moved, although her heart was breaking for him, too, seeing him in so much pain. But she felt the same pain and all she could do was offer him shelter, her embrace, her understanding, her love. They comforted each other and just for a moment, time stood still for them.

※※※

When Vincent regained composure, he pulled back from Catherine’s embrace slightly, his arms remaining around her waist though. With his head down, he didn’t feel brave enough to look her in the eyes yet.

I… I’m sorry…, he whispered, ashamed of having lost control over himself.
Oh, Vincent…, Catherine said softly, wiping away the tears from his face and then stroking his cheek gently with her thumb.
There is no need to be. We’re all just… human, she said with a smile.

He looked into her eyes and smiled. Then he pulled her head closer to him and kissed the top of it. She always did that, always pulled him out of the darkest abyss of his mind and brought him back to the light.

Vincent stood up and slowly walked to the table. He took a sheet of paper from a carved wooden box on it, sat down and started writing. Catherine inquisitively but gently asked.
What are you doing?” She saw he wasn’t writing in his journal, as normally he would be.
I’m writing a letter… to Ellie…, he replied quietly, screwed the cover of his ink pen back on and turned to Catherine. It’s actually Father’s idea.

Vincent told her about the conversation Jacob and Eric had before, and the idea his father came up with right after. Catherine smiled with tears filling up her eyes again, but took a deep breath, stood up and walked over to the table before sitting down on the chair next to Vincent.
Could you lend me some paper and a pen, please? she asked.

Vincent looked into her eyes, smiled and opened the box for taking another sheet of paper.

※※※※※
 

Many of the tunnel dwellers stood gathered on the bank of the Mirror Pool that evening, including Mary, Mouse and some of the children. All of them were holding a piece of paper in their hands. Catherine was there too, with Vincent standing right behind her, his hand resting on her shoulder, offering her a mental shield, the feeling of comfort and strength.

There was a small fire lit in the centre in front of them, the only source of light apart from the reflection of thousands of stars in the sky above them, mirrored in the pool. Jacob stepped to Eric who was standing at the fire, holding his letter to Ellie.
It is time, Eric, he said quietly.

The boy knelt to the fire and threw his letter in it. He looked up and then back into the flames.
I wanted you to read my letter first, Ellie… So you know I’m sorry…That I miss you…And that I really do love you!’

Jacob patted him on his shoulder in comfort. When Eric stepped away, he knelt heavily himself, using the support of his walking stick, and kissed his letter before adding it to the burning light.
“Forgive me, Ellie… Love you…”

Catherine stepped closer next, kissed her letter and when adding it to the others, her lips mouthed I love you. Vincent felt how bravely she was trying not to break down, taking a deep breath as she stood up to join him again.

And so, all the people present added their letters to Ellie to the crackling fire, saying their final goodbyes to the girl, who had brought smiles to their faces and touched their hearts with her warmth and kindness for the short time she had spent with them.

The last person to kneel to send his goodbye to eternity was Vincent. As he looked into the flames, his eyes got misty and he sighed, bowing his head down for a moment. Looking up again, he carefully placed his letter on top of the burning logs. The words he had written appeared before his eyes again.

Dearest Ellie,

No father could have ever had a more wonderful daughter.
I love you always,

                                   Vincent

 

Then he stood up and stepped back to Catherine, who was observing him with a grief-stricken expression. When their eyes met, they knew their shared pain and grief would take some time to heal.

As they all watched the flames dance across the logs, suddenly a light breeze picked up a few pieces of ashes from the fire and started to pull them higher and higher, up through a narrow chimney-style passage, swirling until they finally vanished in the dark starry sky above them.

Rest in peace, golden child...

Vincent closed his eyes and for the first time in days, just for a brief moment, his heart felt lighter.
 

※※※

Catherine and Vincent walked into Jacob’s chamber, waiting for him to return before she would go back above. The worst was over - most of the sick tunnel inhabitants were almost fully recovered, or much better again, so she could finally be persuaded to return to her world. Moreover, it was Sunday evening and she would have to be at work the following day, otherwise, she would have to send a message to Joe through some of the Helpers. And complicating things for the people she loved so dearly was unacceptable in her terms.

The silence and solace in the chamber were almost unreal after all the worrying hustle, continuous movement of people and stress of the past almost three days she had spent Below. She stopped in the middle of the chamber and closed her eyes, taking in the tranquillity, although still badly numbed by the loss they all suffered with Ellie’s passing.

Vincent felt the emotions stirring in her and took her in his arms, leaning his cheek against her head. Catherine gladly sunk into his embrace, the only place where she ever truly felt safe and warm. They stood like this silently, they didn’t know how long, deep in thought and passing on strength and love to each other.

They didn’t even notice when Peter suddenly entered the chamber. He stopped in his tracks and observed the couple with surprise. He saw, as they pulled back from each other slightly and Vincent cupped Catherine’s cheek and caressed it gently with his thumb, before letting his hand drop and taking hold of her hand. She smiled and the look in her eyes told Peter everything he needed to know.

Suddenly, he felt like an intruder and didn’t want to pry on their intimacy any longer and coughed slightly to announce his presence.

Catherine and Vincent both looked in his direction and smiled in surprise.
Peter! You’re here? Catherine exclaimed when he approached.
I just couldn’t stay away, I had to come and take a look if I could help somehow…, Peter said choking on his words.
Somehow? Vincent asked in disbelief. Your medicine saved our lives…

Peter looked at him and saw clearly why he had loved this extraordinary man since he’d been a little boy. The care, gratitude and love in his eyes were something which has always warmed the older man’s heart.

Peter swallowed and tried to lighten the mood.
Well, it wasn’t exactly my medicine but I’ll try to relay this to the hospital management if they ever find out what I borrowed from them, he said and winked.
They all chuckled and visibly relaxed.

When Vincent gave him an update on their situation, Peter sighed with relief, although felt sad too.
I’m truly glad to hear the worst is over… Though I’m really sorry about Ellie… If you need anything else, please, just let me know. He looked into Vincent’s blue eyes.
Vincent put his hand on Peter’s shoulder in gratitude and replied with a simple but heartfelt Thank you.

At that moment, Jacob entered the chamber, his walk heavy, his face pale. He looked as tired and worn out as he was feeling. At first, he was shocked to see his old friend there, but then words of gratitude and relief followed freely along with a bear hug initiated by Peter, after he had assured Jacob he’d had the vaccine himself earlier that day.

Vincent didn’t want to break the moving scene, but he knew Catherine was exhausted and needed rest.
Father… I’ll just walk Catherine home. I won’t be long, he said with quiet concern about his parent.
Of course, Jacob replied. Dear Catherine, yet again, there are no words to thank you and please, if you notice any hint of feeling unwell ---
I will see Peter, I promise, she finished his thought with a little smile, glancing at Vincent, reminded of their first conversation when she’d come Below earlier.

They walked further to the few steps leading out of the chamber when Catherine stepped closer to Jacob. Her face was serious again, sadness setting on it.
It was a beautiful thing you did for Eric.
Vincent put his hand on Father’s shoulder from behind him.
It was for all of us, he said.

Jacob was moved too much to reply, so he just bowed his head humbly. Then Catherine did something he would never have expected - she gave him a peck on his cheek, before joining Vincent and walking out of the chamber.

The tunnel leader stood in awe, touched by her spontaneous kind gesture, and smiled shyly. 
Peter approached him with a grin. She is really something, isn’t she?

Yes, Jacob had to admit. A true wonder… he added, thinking of how Catherine’s presence since she had entered their lives, and especially Vincent’s life, had made a huge positive impact on them all. Yet again, he felt ashamed of how insensitive he had been towards her at the beginning. Then a sudden thought hit him.

You actually know Catherine?
Peter laughed. Ever since she was a baby! She has always been a lovely girl, but until Friday, I had no idea she knew about your world, though it does explain her change and secretive behaviour in the last year considerably.

Father smiled and nodded knowingly. Then, Peter couldn’t help it and asked with interest.
Since when have they….? He couldn’t finish his thought, still struck by the sheer existence of what he saw just a few minutes ago.

Jacob looked at him and smiled. Since the moment they met.
Peter smiled back at him and something in his heart was telling him that it made perfect sense.

※※※

Vincent and Catherine were walking slowly hand in hand towards the threshold. They weren’t speaking much, just enjoying the comfort of each other’s presence after what had been an emotional roller-coaster for both of them. When they stopped at the threshold, they faced each other, still holding hands.

Will you be all right? Vincent inquired quietly with care.
She smiled into his bright eyes and nodded. Yes… I just need to sleep and accept the reality to process everything, she answered, before sinking into his arms with a sigh.
Will you? she spoke into his chest, slowly caressing his back with one hand.
I will… It will take time, but I will, he replied, quietly stroking the back of her head and putting the lightest of kisses on her temple before pulling back.

They looked at each other once more, with still so many words unspoken as always, but they both felt they didn’t need to speak - they just knew.

Get some sleep… Good night, Catherine whispered, slowly letting go of his hands and walking away into the light, before climbing the ladder leading above.

Vincent was watching her disappear and only one thought crossed his mind.

I love you, Catherine… 

※※※※※

The alarm clock woke her up at 6.45 am and it felt like a hammer to her head. She was tempted to call work and leave a message to Joe that she wouldn’t be coming in, but the responsible Catherine Chandler in her won the battle and she slowly dragged herself out of the bed.

She felt fine, apart from the prevailing lack of sleep and feeling a bit dopey because of it. Neither did she notice any signs of health issues and saw no reason why not to go to work then. Also, when she was Below, Father had given her a booster shot against the plague, so the risk was minimal. Besides, she would have to explain to her boss and friend why she left work at lunchtime and Friday and never returned. He’d left her five messages on her answering machine, but she didn’t have the strength to call him when she returned from Below.

She’d barely entered the DA’s office when Joe Maxwell called at her from across the room.
Cathy!!
And here it comes...
Joe, I’m really sorry…,she started, with a guilty look, when they met in front of her desk.

She noticed his deeply worrying look turn to relief and then slipping into his boss role again.
Where the hell have you been?! And why haven’t you called me back?? Joe was really trying hard to hide how afraid he had been for her.

Catherine felt bad for not being able to be open with him but she smiled.
I’m really sorry Joe, I had a family emergency and totally forgot about work, I only returned home last night. There, at least she wasn’t lying.

Joe observed her for a moment. He knew by now that whenever she disappeared, she mentioned ‘family emergency’ and it could really mean anything. But her commitment to work and the value of it a;ways reassured him that she would never make an excuse to get out of the office if there was no important reason behind it. Therefore, he just shook his head before looking at her again, speaking calmer now.

“Is everything okay now? With your… family? he asked.
She smiled knowingly and nodded. Yes… Thank you.

Joe smiled back at her and turned to leave. Okay, back to work then, and Radcliffe?
Yes, Joe?
You look like hell, he stated, grinning.

Catherine laughed. She knew she would have been in much more trouble if he hadn’t had a soft spot for her. Still, she was grateful to Joe. She felt he sensed more than he ever said, but he never questioned her more than was needed. Always loyal, always trusting, always caring. She truly counted her blessings for having a friend like Joe Maxwell.

The hours were passing quicker than she thought, as she was working her way through the pile of cases on her desk when suddenly she noticed someone standing near. She looked up and exclaimed in surprise.

Peter! An expression of worry appeared on her face. Is everything… okay?
Her friend smiled knowingly. 
“Yes, everything is fine, Cathy! Sorry to barge in on you like this but I thought… Maybe I could take you out for lunch? We have a lot to catch up on.

He could see Catherine’s face relax in relief and smile. She looked at her watch, it was almost one pm.
Oh my, where has the time flown?? I am actually starving, I gladly accept your offer.

She grabbed her coat and purse and followed him out.

※※※

‘The Jimmy’s’ was a small diner on the corner, not far from where Catherine worked. Its interior was nothing extravagant, but cosy - burgundy and cream wallpapered walls, cream tables, burgundy booths, a 60s jukebox in the corner turned up not too much, in order not to disturb the customers talking to each other, framed old photographs of baseball players hanging on the walls. And the smell of homemade burgers was filling the air. Despite of being lunchtime, there were only two more customers on the other side of the diner.

I have to admit, Peter started, as they sat down in a corner booth away from others. This would be the last place I would expect to see you lunching.
They both laughed when going through the menus.
Have I really changed so much? she asked in amazement.

Peter looked up at her and smiled. In the best possible way, Cathy… You were always a good girl, kind and nice to everyone. But let’s face it, you were more of a ---
Fashion law queen?” she said and chuckled.
Sort of, her older companion laughed.

She shook her head and said in a contemplative fashion. I guess, people change… Events, things change you… Life changes you.
And certain people change us, too, Peter added knowingly.
Catherine looked into his eyes again and then smiled dreamily. Yes…
Then she regained composure and asked. I guess, you want to know… how can it be that Vincent and I….

Peter interrupted her quickly with a smile. I know how, Cathy, trust me. He was always a wonderful boy and he grew up into the finest man I’ve ever known. The fact that he is… unique… doesn’t change anything about it.

Catherine was moved and relieved that she didn’t have to defend her feelings in front of her dear friend. Only someone with a pure, kind and open heart could understand, and Peter was all of that.

I’m so happy that you two crossed paths, you really deserve each other… You can’t imagine how often, ever since you grew up, I wished that you could get to know him. I knew he could do so much good for you.”

He took her hand and continued. I’ve seen you struggle in the past few years, Cathy. The men in your past life, all trying to own you, to overpower you, to have you as a presentable other half, or turn you into their own image… And I’ve seen you suffer through it, unable to break through that barrier that was keeping you from being yourself, from living a life that you desired and deserved. I even tried to tell your father a few times, but he seemed blinded by his belief on what he thought was best for you.

Catherine felt her eyes getting misty; then she spoke again, quietly.
That night, when they attacked me…, she swallowed, it was Vincent who found me in the park…

Peter’s eyes smiled as she continued.
He brought me to Father… Jacob… and they saved my life… I was bleeding heavily, there was no time to bring me to a hospital; Jacob had to treat me right away. And so I stayed there, recovering for those ten days that I was missing.

Shaking her head, she smiled. It’s strange, everybody thought I was missing and meanwhile...She looked at Peter again. I was found.
H
e understood perfectly what she meant and squeezed her hand tighter.

Ever since I first heard Vincent’s voice, I... I’ve felt safer and warmer than any time before… The way he was speaking to me, looking after me, reading to me, feeding me, listening to me… He opened a new world to me, the world of compassion, unselfish care for others, devotion to what is right, appreciation for the simple things in life we so often take for granted… He gave me the strength to believe in myself, that I could be whatever I want to be and use my strength in the best way to help others… I’ve never felt like that before, my heart… shifted before I could even understand the full impact of it… He saved my life in every possible way.

Catherine sighed and was trying to think how to explain the next part, while Peter was silently observing her with a lingering smile never leaving his face.
I can imagine, God knows this world needs more people like him, he then said quietly.
Yes, very much…

She looked past him outside the window and he could see so much love in her eyes that it made his ageing heart warm.
So that’s the reason why you left your father’s company? Peter asked.
Yes… I realised I could do so much more, in a way I wanted to give back to those who need it most.

The waitress came and they ordered their meal. When she left, Catherine told Peter about the extraordinary bond between Vincent and her. The power of it stunned him but in the best way.

Then, while they were eating, Catherine told him about how she was spending time with Vincent, they shared a few stories about him and Catherine felt like a giant burden had been lifted from her heart. She finally had someone Above who she could talk to about the man she loved, and it made her feel truly happy.

Just before they were about to leave, Catherine’s face suddenly grew sad.
What is it, Cathy? Peter asked concerned.
I wish… I wish I could tell Daddy about Vincent…
Peter sighed and nodded. I know…. But I’m afraid he’s not in the state of being able to understand… yet.

Catherine looked at him, her look questioning. Do you think he ever will be?
I hope so… For both of your sakes, he replied, smiling at her and marvelling at what a miracle a truly pure and deep love can be to cross and push all the boundaries life poses on it.

※※※※※

When Catherine came home from work that day, she felt much better. The talk with Peter truly lifted her spirit and it felt wonderful to talk about Vincent with someone Above. She wasn’t alone on her side of the river anymore and it felt wonderful.

She just made a fresh pot of herbal tea when her senses sharpened and right afterwards, she heard the tap on the French door. Her heart leapt and she almost ran to open the door. When she did, she fell into his arms, starving for his nearness.

Catherine… Vincent whispered.
The sound of his voice speaking her name made her tremble, as it always did. She pulled him closer and breathed in the beloved scent of him.  

I felt you were getting better during the day. I’m glad, he said gently into her hair.
She pulled back to look into his warm deep eyes. Peter took me out for lunch and we talked about you. She couldn’t stop smiling.
A wave of love washed over Vincent from her heart and he smiled shyly, lowering his eyes for a brief moment. I hope you didn’t linger on the bad things, he said, with a hint of teasing in his voice.

Catherine chuckled and took his hand, rubbing her cheek on the soft furry side of it, closing her eyes for a few seconds.
There are no bad things, she said quietly and released his hand before walking over to the balcony half-wall, leaning her back against it.

Vincent followed her, his heart touched deeply by her words and the loving little gesture. He leaned with his back against the wall too and kept watching her.
I hope you managed to get some proper sleep, she said with a worried look.

Vincent’s face looked better in fact. The pale colour disappeared, his cheeks back to the soft bronze shade, and his eyes looked brighter, sparkle having returned to them. He looked almost like his usual beautiful, healthy self again.

Yes, I did, I feel much better now, he reassured her.
I’m glad… How are the others doing?
There are only three more patients, but Father reckons they could be released from the Hospital Chamber by tomorrow. A quiet laugh escaped his throat. And Mouse is already planning his new project - an expansion of the Hospital Chamber.

Catherine laughed and warmed at the memory of the genius restless young man with the soul of an eternal boy. The expression on her face turned more serious then.

What are you thinking, Catherine? Vincent asked.
Poor man… To have come so far only to have his dream turn to ashes... Even if Dimitry had lived, he would have found his Anna too late.
Perhaps he knew that, even when he first received her letter, mused Vincent, looking ahead in thought.
And he came anyway, Catherine said wonderingly, her eyes never leaving his face.
He loved her, Vincent replied, looking back at her. He had no choice.
Even though he already knew?

Vincent sighed and looked deep into her green eyes. One either moves towards love or away from it, Catherine, there is no other direction…

They gazed at each other and both felt their hearts beating in unison, at a faster pace that is so characteristic and inevitable for those whose hearts are intertwined. Their bodies moved towards one another like magnets, and when they finally broke their gaze, their faces touched lightly, brushing cheeks, as they ended up in a gentle but firm embrace, both feeling eternally grateful for the chance they had been given - the chance to move towards love. 

                           ※※※※※