Welcome to charm, p.3
Welcome to Charm, page 3
“I comprehend now that you elaborated. It’s a great strategy. In fact, I’d buy what you’re selling, and I’m not easy.” Nash chuckled. “Take the photos, but with one caveat. You can’t divulge your location to your boss or the others.”
Abby’s eleven lines appeared between her eyes. “But—”
“No buts. Remember that Charm doesn’t exist on traditional maps. You must tell everyone to do this research you’ve agreed to keep the location a secret. Surely you see the wisdom in that caveat.” Nash paused. “Will you accept my terms?”
“I suppose,” replied Abby, considering the merits of Nash’s words. As far as running her day-to-day life, if she was gone for merely a few weeks, her bills and condo would fare fine. To play it safe, she would ask her friend in the next condo to handle things. They’d exchanged keys years ago to help each other during extended away trips. Abby could dismiss that worry.
“Got things set in your head?” asked Nash.
She turned her focus back to him. “Yes, I believe I’ve got things figured out. You’re right. Not telling where I am is the best way to handle my abduction by Charm.” The corners of her mouth turned up against her will.
“Super. How about friends and family? Any problems there?” Nash settled back, relaxed.
“I don’t have any family. I’m adopted, and both my parents were botanists. Five years ago, they traveled to the Congo Basin. They couldn’t resist the call of ten-thousand species of tropical plants.” She felt her throat tighten with emotion.
Nash nodded. “So, your love for plants got imprinted by your parents. I’m sure they were proud of you.”
Abby’s face brightened for a moment. “Yes, they were. Anyway, my father heard stories about some remarkable changes taking place with the Heliconia.”
“Pardon?” asked Nash.
“You can call it a parrot flower,” Abby replied, amused. “You see, my parents’ work focused on the healing properties of plants. I’m about to digress, but did you know that one international institute has found over fourteen-hundred plants to fight a single disease?”
“I did not. Fascinating. Go on. I’m intrigued.” Nash pushed his sunglasses atop his head.
Abby gave a quick nod, wanting to hurry past the last part. “I’ll give you the short version. My parents went missing while on a field study. The authorities found no evidence of them, so eventually, they were presumed dead.” Abby swiped at the stray tear.
Nash touched Abby’s forearm. “Perhaps while you’re in Charm, more healing can happen.”
Abby nodded. “Since they weren’t found, I never got any real closure. That healing gift I’d gladly accept.” She grew quiet, letting her thoughts return to who to call first. “Guess I should get this drill done. I’ve one close girlfriend who lives in my condo building. She can inform my other friends that I’m off doing field research.” Abby paused, considering Edward. “I imagine my soon-to-be-ex boyfriend, Edward, warrants a call. That’s everyone.”
“So, by my tally, that’s three calls. You’ve got a simple story to tell that’s true and meets Charm’s criteria. Ready to get this done?”
“I suppose, but what answer do I give for when I’m coming home?” Abby reached for her cell phone.
“Want to hear what I told my family and friends?” Amusement claimed Nash’s face.
“Judging by your expression, this should be entertaining. At this moment in Charm time, I need levity, lots of it. Don’t disappoint this wayward woman.” Abby leaned forward, anticipating.
“I told everyone that I was prospecting for gold in these here mountains.” Nash released a laugh.
“Seriously? Gold?” Abby joined in, laughing.
“Before you pass sentence, I’m a geologist and archeologist. Like any explorer, ancient texts spoke my language. I’d read about a rich vein of gold hidden in these mountains. Did I say rich vein?” asked a playful Nash.
“I believe you did. Is there more to tell, or do you plan to leave me hanging?”
“I plan to leave you hanging for now. Just know the tale brought out no small amount of skepticism and teasing from my six people. Listen, I’m going to sit on that slab of diorite by the falls, so you have this space to yourself. Join me once you’re done.”
Abby stood. “I plan to snap a few photos first and then call my boss. Wish me luck.”
“You’re in Charm. No luck required. Good luck,” joked Nash before walking away.
Armed with a handful of spectacular shots of the rare orchids, Abby took a cleansing breath and rang her boss. She suspended expectations and discovered that it felt freeing. “Good evening, Maurice. It’s Abby. Are you still in the lab?”
“I am. We’re making significant progress with altering retinoids at the molecular level and making nature’s Vitamin A superior and highly stable. Your discovery last week really pushed us ahead of schedule. Here’s some good news. The corporate dynamos on the top floor have stopped threatening to cut our staff. Sorry, I got carried away. Wait a sec, you never call me after hours unless you’ve had some breakthrough. What’s up?”
Abby forced a chuckle to keep the easy comradery going. “To tell the truth, Maurice, I do have kind of a breakthrough story to share. It’s exciting and couldn’t wait. Coming home, a sudden road detour brought me to the most incredible orchid find. Prepare to have your lid flipped. I texted you seven photos as a sampling. Take a gander.” Abby waited with breath held.
“What I’m staring at is impossible. A species of orchid morphed into colors never seen before. And the other two rarities with the same changes….”
“Incredible, aren’t they? As you know, I’ve postulated the rarer orchids possess anti-aging properties that haven’t been studied.” Abby’s enthusiasm took off and surprised her.
“Yes, yes, tell me more.” Maurice mirrored her excitement. “By the way, I thought you were going someplace in southern Georgia and not a tropical locale.”
Abby laughed and dodged the answer. “You know how I love spur of the moment. Anyway, I’d like to remain here secreted away so I can study these novel plants in their natural habitat. If I can prove my claim and deliver you a paper, it means our department—”
“Will garner serious acclaim, and investors will flock. Yes, Abby, you must do this work. You’re gifted with instincts like no other botanist in my sphere. Take the time you need, and I’ll protect your position with the company. Bring home the ‘fountain of youth’ and revive Ponce de Leon’s claim.”
“I’ll try to make you and Ponce proud. So, you’re fine with this plan?” pressed Abby.
“Of course. All I ask is that you check in with me weekly. Again, I’d appreciate knowing your exact location,” Maurice stated.
“That brings us to the two stipulations placed on me. I can’t divulge where I am because the village doesn’t want all manner of people showing up. It’s a private and unique community of…nature lovers. And swallow your coming oath. After we hang up, I can’t use any form of technology while here. They feel it corrupts—”
“I’ve heard enough. Those types can be tricky to work around.” Maurice grew quiet. “Okay, okay. Have it their way. I assume you’ve got what you need to stay on and do this work. Without those pictures to show and tell, I’d not agree to any of these terms. You know this, right?”
“I do. Thank you for trusting in me. I’ll deliver on my promise, Maurice. Unless you have more to add, I need to go. Don’t worry about my safety or wellbeing. I’m in a place that I can only describe as enchanting.” Abby glanced around, thinking if her boss only knew the whole story.
“Makes me wish I was there too,” Maurice sighed. “Hurry back to us, and good luck, Abby.”
“I’m told luck isn’t needed here, but thanks. Goodbye, and tell everyone there I’m already missing them.” Abby disconnected, feeling a touch of sadness, but only a touch.
Next on the short list was her best friend, Lisa. She pushed the button noticing her bar had dropped to one, and the battery was nearly depleted. “Charm’s effect,” she said out loud. She got Lisa’s voicemail. Abby activated her story. She laid the cell phone to the side, feeling disappointed not to have spoken to her friend. Refusing her mind’s attempt to interfere and bring more niggling doubts forward, she called the jerk. This time it felt like a reward that Edward didn’t answer. Abby left a brief message that her research was delaying her return for an unspecified time, and under the circumstances, he should move forward dating others. That was the only call that left her feeling liberated. They should have ended things long ago. Abby took that emotion with her to where Charm’s mayor waited.
“Mission accomplished?” Nash patted the boulder next to him.
“Mission accomplished. This all feels so nuts to me. What am I saying? It is nuts.” Abby sighed.
“Do you want to talk about the three calls? I guess reality—”
“Reality? Who knows anymore what’s real? Here I sit, cocooned in la-la land and wondering what’s going to happen next.”
Chapter 5
“You’re asking what’s next besides your gazillion questions chasing me?” Nash’s expression showed playfulness. “How about we do some grounding? That’s what Gita calls it.”
“Grounding? In Charm? That’s got to be the best oxymoron ever spoken. I’m staring at orchid varieties that shouldn’t exist, not to mention other unknown exotic plants scattered around the falls. And never mind how I got here—wherever here is on Bill and Bob’s magical map. I’ll have none of your woo-woo grounding, thank you very much.” Abby tilted her head, considering. “I’m a definite pass…maybe.”
“Okay, under the circumstances, I concede that you’ve ticked off some valid points.” Nash hollered hello to a group of passing hikers before returning his attention to Abby. “Let’s go, Ms. Drake. You’ll have more opportunities to visit the orchids, but you need dinner and a place to bunk right now. That’s my version of grounding.” Nash offered his hand.
Abby noted her cell phone had shut off. She’d officially lost contact with the outside world. Gratefully, she clasped Nash’s hand. At least that felt real. “Okay, Mr. Mayor, I suppose you’re right on all counts. Tell me, is there a nice grounding B&B in town?”
“Yes, but I’ve got a better offer.” Nash waved to a couple walking a terrier.
Abby cocked her eyebrow. “You must know everyone in Charm. Never mind. What’s your offer? Beggars can’t be choosey and all that.”
Nash moved a fallen limb. “I’m inviting you to spend a few days at my home. Before you get the wrong idea, my sister, Bella, along with Aubrey and Will, live with me.”
Abby halted. “Gosh, that’s super nice of you, but I couldn’t possibly intrude. I mean, you don’t even know me. I could be some wild—”
A grin appeared on Nash’s face. “I know you’re not whatever you were pairing with wild. Besides, on Monday, Bella cooks pot roast and whipped potatoes. You don’t want to turn that down.” Nash patted his stomach.
“I don’t, huh?” Had she lost the last bit of sanity? Why did she feel so…happy? Why did the idea of agreeing to Nash’s invitation seem the most natural thing to do? Abby laughed. Her fretting arsenal was empty. “Gravy?”
“The best. Are you in?” asked Nash.
“I’m way in, but only for one night, and with the condition, I do the dishes.” Abby waited.
“Deal. It was my night to do them. See? I’m already a winner.”
~*~
Behind the wheel of her German SUV, Abby followed Nash’s truck out to the loop road. She clung to the fact her vehicle functioned in Charm and one day soon would take her home. Until completing these mysterious lessons, she’d try to adapt. There was no other choice, at least none she could fathom.
As she drove, Abby admired the landscape’s unusual beauty. The sun’s rays washed everything in hues of gold…Charm’s favorite color. She refused her mind’s attempt to analyze the afternoon in Charm. “I’m not loco. What I see is real, just unexplainable.” Abby gave a solemn nod. “Yes, it’s all some grand adventure. And may it end soon.” She let the jazz music keep her company until Nash’s blinker signaled a turn.
An expansive log home with a wide welcoming front porch came into view as Nash veered off the loop road. Old-growth trees flanked the sides and back of the property. The winding gravel driveway delivered her to the destination. Small rocks intentionally stacked along the sidewalk resembled a miniature Stonehenge.
Still, it was the breathtaking long-range mountain views that amped Abby’s pulse. She stepped out of her car. “Nash, what a magnificent place you call home.”
“Thank you. You might say that I created it.” Nash popped the SUV’s tailgate.
“I’m leaving that statement alone for now.” Abby put out her hand. “Here, I can take the other overnight bag.”
“Holy smokes, woman, you’ve packed enough to last you until the cows come home,” Nash stared inside the cargo area.
Abby surveyed the contents. “I know. It’s my only fault. I can’t travel light. The concept defies my nature. But hey, in this case, looks like it’s paid off.” She chose a couple of outfits from the impressive stack of clothes draped over the back seat.
Nash watched as Abby sorted through the menagerie of totes. “Your one fault, you say?”
“Yes, just the one.” Abby cut a grin and draped three totes over his arm. “That should suffice for tonight’s stay. Lead the way.”
“I feel like your pack mule,” joked Nash. “There’d better be a big tip waiting once I dump this lot in your room.”
Abby stopped. “Hold up. I thought we didn’t need money in Charm.”
“You’re right. Tip me with something else of value.” Nash climbed the porch steps.
Before Abby could deliver a feisty retort, Aubrey and Will bolted out the door to greet them.
“Uncle Nash, you brought pretty Abby home with you.” Aubrey moved to Abby’s side.
“He sure did, Aubrey, and am I ever happy to see you again.” Abby leaned down and bestowed a hug. Why did this action feel so normal? She had so many unanswered questions, and no one seemed inclined to answer her.
Aubrey swayed. “I’m happy too. Know why?”
“Tell me,” Abby encouraged.
“Because Mama’s made us an A dessert called Apple Betty.” Aubrey danced a circle around everyone. “A’s are the best.”
“I don’t like apples.” Will scrunched his face.
“Come on, you guys. Help me get Abby settled in her room. Will, you’re strong. Take this heavy bag. Aubrey, here’s one for you.” Nash led the happy parade inside.
Abby paused in the great room, admiring the wood-beamed cathedral ceiling and open floor plan. A second-floor bridge overlooked the room and led to what she suspected were the sleeping areas. The décor suited the log home’s architectural design. The room had three defined seating areas. Oversized upholstered moss and cream-colored sofas and complementing chairs invited relaxation around a massive stone fireplace.
“Do you like it?” Nash cast his eyes around the room.
“Of course, I like it. Are these wormy chestnut floors? They’re a rarity nowadays.” Abby bent and ran her hand along a wood plank. “Gorgeous.”
“Yes, ma’am, and from reclaimed wood.” Nash set the overnighter down and watched the kids scurry upstairs, dragging the tote bags.
Abby glanced into the dining area. “Is that stunning wood table and matching chairs hand-carved?”
“Yes, and by me.” Nash took a bow.
“Don’t get a big head, but you’re sure one talented dude.”
“His head’s already plenty inflated,” laughed Bella, entering the room. “Hello, Abby, and welcome to Hidden Haven. I’ve heard about you from my kids, and then Nash called saying you’d agreed to spend some time with us.”
“Thank you so much. I hope having an unexpected guest isn’t causing you a problem. To help earn my keep, I’ve claimed dibs on washing the dinner dishes.” Abby felt an instant connection to Bella. Curly brown hair, styled in a pixie, suited her heart-shaped face. Olive skin and deep blue eyes matched her son’s. Bella’s presence oozed fun.
“You aren’t an unexpected guest. Make yourself at home, Abby. I’ll ring the dinner bell in about an hour. It’s the only thing that gets my crew to the table. As for kitchen duty, have at it.” Bella laughed and disappeared through a wide doorway.
Abby tapped Nash on the arm. “Did I understand Bella right? You’ve been expecting me? How could you know I—?” Abby hurried to follow Nash up the stairs.
“We always look forward to new arrivals.” Nash stopped on a step. “You should give that inquisitive brain of yours a rest. There’s plenty of time for those questions.” Nash continued climbing. “Tonight, settle in and enjoy Charm-style hospitality. Your room is on the right with the second-best mountain view.” He opened the door and allowed Abby to pass.
“I assume your room has the best view.” Abby paused inside the bedroom, taking in the vast picture window showcasing a scene an artist would clamor to paint. The queen-size bed was covered by a colorful quilt depicting elements of Angel Cascade. Two pine nightstands with Tiffany-style lamps flanked the bed, and a matching dresser was on the far wall. The stone fireplace’s seating area provided the ideal spot to curl up with a book on a snowy night. Abby sighed and turned to an expecting Nash. “Hidden Haven is the perfect name. Thank you again for sharing this mountain oasis with me. Who would ever want to leave this place or its view?” Abby collapsed on the sofa, gazing out the window.
Nash’s expression showed pleasure. “Call that Charm’s magic at work.” He parked the overnight bag in a corner. “You have a private bath through that door. I have a nice collection of classic books in the library downstairs. Help yourself, but you’ll want to ignore my geology and archeology books unless you have insomnia.”
