Gaze upon a Blue Moon

Gaze Upon A Blue Moon

Danna Walters

Copyright © 2016 Danna Walters

All Rights Reserved

Distributed by Smashwords

This book is work of pure fiction composed from the author’s imagination. It is protected under the copyright laws of the United States of America. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by an information storage or retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher. Contact the publisher at info@newlinkpublishing.com.

Line/Content Editor: Denice Whitmore

Cover: Richard R. Draude

Ebook formatting by www.ebooklaunch.com

p. cm. — Danna Walters (Paranormal fiction/time travel.

ISBN: 978-1-934051-99-3/Paperback

ISBN: 978-1-941271-01-8/E-Pub

1. Fiction/Romance/Time Travel. 2. Fiction/ Romance/Historical 3. Fiction/Romance/General

www.newlinkpublishing.com

Henderson, NV 89002

Printed in the United States of America

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Gaze Upon a Blue Moon is dedicated to Cheryl Robinson and Tammy George. I can’t thank you enough for each being my sounding board, encourager and enthusiast.

Also, to Danny Walters. You make my journey through life an adventure. I greatly appreciate your understanding and support.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 1

Chasing Butterflies

"Irelyn! Please get your hands out of the bowl and please do shut the refrigerator door!"

But Momma, I wanna help. I peered up at mother through a wisp of my dark red hair. Momma had been rushing around the house all day, making everything perfect for her silly Bunco ladies. What is Bunco anyways? I scrunched up my face.

Softening, Momma handed me a slice of lemon pound cake. Here honey, take a bite of this with you and go out to play for a bit. She shooed me out the back door.

I didn’t get to play outside by myself very often, but I know the rules. Stay in the backyard. Do not under any circumstance leave the backyard. Oh yes, and don’t eat dirt. Just because I ate dirt when I was three, they always tell me that rule every time I go outdoors. Didn’t they realize I quit doing that the day Granddad told me worms use the bathroom in the dirt? Yuck! I spit it out and never ate it again. Everyone had tried to stop me, but Granddad was the only one who told me why I shouldn’t. I love him very much, and listen to his advice—most of the time.

Granddad Irish built me a nice swing set in the backyard, but I headed for the chain link fenced field behind the yard. Daddy and Granddad Irish had planted fruit trees and a garden in the field. I loved running in and out of the trees, chasing the birds, pretending I was one of them.

Granddad Irish said I did a fine job protecting the fruit trees. Now if only the insects would run from ye.

I don’t really understand what he meant. The birds aren’t running from me. They are simply teaching me how to fly.

I finished my lemon cake, licking my fingers clean. Momma made it with lemons from our own tree. Eating Mother’s lemon pound cake was like biting into sunshine. I closed my eyes, enjoying the fading taste on my tongue. Maybe I’d better go check on the fruit tree, just to make sure there were still lemons on it. I’m not supposed to go in the field without a grown-up because of the street on the other side. I looked over my shoulder. But, I’ll just check on the lemon tree and be quick.

The sun shined on the grass, bees buzzed around making honey and the birds waited in the trees for me to come play. I couldn’t disappoint my feathered friends, so I ran through the trees squealing and laughing as the birds took flight.

Skipping to a halt, I counted the lemons on the tree, when a bright blue butterfly fluttered overhead. It’s the prettiest one I’ve ever seen. Maybe I can catch it and show it to Momma.

The butterfly flew right over the chain-link fence and I followed, squeezing through the locked gate to keep up with the butterfly.

Wait! Don’t go, I want Momma to see you! I skipped after it, reaching as high as I could with my open hands. I jumped up and closed my fist. One finger at a time, I opened my hand…and sighed. Empty! I looked up in time to see the butterfly disappear into the thick forest.

My eyes grew wide. How had I come so far? Straining my ears, I listened. Had Mother noticed I was gone? I heard nothing, not even the bees buzzing around the lemon tree.

Taking a step forward, I stopped. What if the three bears lived in the woods? But the thought of the blue butterfly pulled me forward. What if this butterfly is Goldilocks friend and she sent it to come get me to play with her? It did seem like an extra special butterfly. I puffed out my chest and took a deep breath. With slow, careful steps I entered the dark woods.

Chapter 2

The Inheritance

(Twenty Years Later)

I woke with a start. My eyes snapped open. I didn’t have to check—I overslept. The alarm on my cell phone failed to wake me up. I don’t fear turning it off in a half-awake state. I am either wide awake, functioning at a hundred percent, or sound asleep as soon as my head hits the pillow. No in between for me.

The dreams that plagued me as a child had returned. My dreams must somehow be connected to my disappearance at age four. They’ve been with me since I was found unconscious in the woods by a rather large, enthusiastic dog who licked my face as if he might drink me right up, until I came to and pushed him off. He barked until a policeman found us. The officer told me he and many others had been searching for me all night. I had gone missing for thirty-six hours. The kind policeman carried me home on his broad shoulders.

He carried me through the gate and was almost bowled over by my frantic mother.

Mercy! I’ve died and gone to heaven! She checked every inch of me to see if I was hurt, then threw her arms around me, crushing me in a hug.

I can never recall the details of the dreams after I wake, only the sound of someone calling out to me. I lay twisted in my nightgown, the sheets tangled around my legs, my heart racing. Tossing and turning all night trying to quiet the dream must have caused me to sleep through the alarm.

I checked the time on my phone. I had to be at the attorney's office in one hour! I hopped out of bed shrugging out of my thin spaghetti strapped nightgown on the way to the bathroom. Assessing my hair in the mirror I decided the long, unruly, red tresses would have to wait a day for washing. I'd never make it on time if I had to blow it out. I pinned it up to keep it dry and took a quick shower. Thank goodness I planned out my wardrobe last night.

Ready, with time to spare, I decided a stop by my favorite coffee shop was in order. I grabbed a banana and locked the front door of my small, cottage style home. Fat free, cinnamon vanilla, no whip, latte here I come.

Stepping up to our family lawyer, Mr. Jackson's office, latte in hand, I had five minutes to spare. Reaching for the door, I exhaled, releasing the tension from my shoulders. Raising my head I entered the cozy room, smiling inside at my punctuality.

Behind the reception desk sat the silver haired, robust Mrs. Ellis. She had worked for Mr. Jackson ever since he opened up shop. Well before my day. She had been a young girl when she started working for the ambitious young attorney. Well hello there, Miss Irelyn. So nice to see you again. Wish it was under better circumstances.

Oh, thank you, Mrs. Ellis. You’re looking lovely as ever. I winked.

Psh, go on with you. Mrs. Ellis waved away my compliment with a twinkle in her eye. Mr. Jackson will be right with you. Just make yourself at home Irelyn, dear. Mrs. Ellis’ jovial smile beamed a little brighter.

A few minutes later, Mr. Jackson’s office door opened, and his booming voice called out. Irelyn, what a sight for sore eyes you are! Please come on in. He waved me over.

Grabbing my outstretched hand, he pulled me into a great big bear hug depriving me of air. He released me and I took a deep breath catching the scent of his signature cologne—a blend of currants and new leather. I smiled up into his face, a lump forming in my throat at the familiar smell and show of affection.

Mr. Jackson, where would I be without you and Mrs. Ellis making me feel like I still have family?

Family isn’t always blood related, dear. We’re here for you. Now, how about we have a seat and let’s get this business taken care of. He stepped behind his large mahogany desk motioning for me to sit in the chair across from him. I’m sure you know, you are your grandfather’s last living relative. I’m aware he became your guardian when your parents died in that tragic car accident when you were young. He paused, shaking his head. Glancing back up at me, he asked,Your grandfather was still living in your family’s home with you when he passed?

Yes, that’s right. I found him in the orchard sitting against the lemon tree. It appeared he grew tired while tending the garden, and sat down for a rest. I swallowed the urge to cry. His tools lay on the ground and he still had his work gloves on.

I can only imagine how difficult that was for you, Irelyn.Mr. Jackson, frowned.

Yes, difficult. When I realized he had passed on I sank to the ground next to him, overwhelmed by grief. Sitting there while his body grew cold, I pictured him through the years in our garden. I sat there ‘til thunder rolled across the sky and raindrops splashed on my cheeks, mixing with the tears flowing down my face.

Irelyn? Did you hear what I said?

Oh, um…I'm sorry Mister Jackson. I was lost in thought. I'm listening.

I was saying your grandfather's will has some provisions for you. He cleared his throat. Your grand-father owned an old house in the Caribbean. The remaining balance on the property was paid off by his life insurance in the event of his death. Mister. Jackson looked me square in the eye. He wanted you to have it and not have to pay for it. A very thoughtful and generous man, your grandfather. It's a bungalow on three acres of land. I believe it has access to the ocean. The house and property are called… He scanned his finger down the page until he found what he needed. Ah, yes. Shell Cove. I’m afraid there’s no house or street address since they name the houses instead of streets in the Caribbean. He said he purchased it shortly after you returned from your—

Seeing his discomfort I finished for him. Disappearance. Sitting up straight, I slid to the edge of my seat waiting to hear what he would say next.

Yes, that. Mister Jackson peered at me over his glasses. Once you settled back in, he intended on taking the family over to see it. However, bout the time he felt all had returned to normal, your parents…. Well, I'm very sorry to have to mention these painful memories for you, Irelyn.

I understand, Mr. Jackson. It's quite all right. I reassured him with a tentative smile. Crossing my legs in an effort to keep from bouncing them, I said, Please go on. I never knew Granddad owned anything of any value, other than his charm. Mother used to say he could charm the socks off a fox, and she was right.

Chuckling, Mr. Jackson shuffled the papers in his hand. The Caribbean house in Antigua now belongs to you. I have the deed right here. Also, there’s one more thing, something he brought from Ireland with him. It's a trunk, he wanted you to have it. He said it contains a letter and a few other things. He wrote, ‘Me darling red lass will know what's to be done with it all.’

I smiled, imagining the twinkle in Granddad’s eye whenever he called me that. Thank you, Mr. Jackson. I will look for the trunk this evening. I appreciate all your help. Clasping hands over the desk, we both rose. I may need some advice later as to what to do about the Antigua house. Right now, though, I've got to get to the school. Sonya has been managing without me for too long.

Of course, Dear. He opened the door to the outer office and walked me out. Remember, good decisions aren't made in haste. Call me anytime. I'll help however I can.

Waving good-bye to him, I left the office. I drove to the school not really seeing my surroundings. My head spun. A house. In the Caribbean? I could not wrap my brain around the fact that I now owned a house on an island. How strange. I couldn't imagine why in the world Granddad Irish purchased a house in the Caribbean.

I didn't have time to think about it. I pushed my curiosity aside for the time being and pulled into the school parking lot. I sat in the car shaking my head to clear my thoughts, and remove all personal distractions in order to focus on my job and the children.

My good friend and business partner, Sonya, spotted me as I got out of the car. Waving, she called out to me.Irelyn! I am so glad you’re back! We all missed you, especially the students!

With renewed determination, I put all thoughts of grandfather and my curious inheritance aside and returned Sonja’s greeting with a smile.

I may as well tell you now. I need you to fill in for Ms. Lane in Pre-K today. She’s out sick. We’ll have to juggle some classes and combine some to allow you to still teach your Music and Movement Classes. Sorry to overload you on your first day back. But, at least it’s Friday.

No problem. Nothing we haven’t done before. Taking a deep breath and fixing a smile on my face, I entered the fray.

The day proved to be challenging. The last student’s father arrived to pick him up.

Robbie, please stop pollinating, and come get your cup of lady bugs to take home for your mom’s garden. Your father is here. Robbie fluttered over wearing purple, tissue paper wings.

I’m sucking flowers! Robbie smiled up at his father.

Noticing the deep frown on the man’s face, I said, We’re learning about helpful insects in Science.

Hrmph! Robbie’s dad yanked off the wings and pulled Robbie after him out of the building.

You’re welcome! Have a nice weekend! I called after them.

Hearing the exchange and seeing the look of exasperation on my face, Sonja linked elbows with me and led the way into our joint office. Is it just me, or was today exceptionally challenging? Maybe because it’s my first day back?

Sonja grabbed a bottle of wine and two glasses out of a drawer and poured us both a generous portion. Oh no, today was hell! I will never forget the look on your face when you saw one thousand lady bugs flying and crawling all over the classroom! Sonja’s hand shook from laughter as she handed me one of the glasses.I don’t think I’ll ever get the image of children running in circles, screaming, with bugs flying around them, out of my mind.

Sonja’s unsuccessful attempt to hold back her laughter started me laughing. Whether it was the day’s events, the wine, or exhaustion, we laughed until tears spilled out of our eyes. This was the best way to end a day like no other. I held up my empty glass and she clinked hers against mine.

Time to go home.

Chapter 3

Treasures from the Past

Even on my worst days I am comforted and cheered by the purple irises lining the drive. The bulbs came from grandmother’s garden. She and mother planted them here. I envision the two of them there welcoming me home. Entering the cottage, I headed straight for the bathroom and filled the tub. I put on some soft, instrumental music, lit a candle and sank into the soothing, sudsy water. What is it about a hot bath that melts all your worries and aches away?

The morning sun glanced off the dresser mirror into my eyes waking me from a dream. Turning my head away from the intrusion I lay still to recapture the dream. Or was it a memory?

Grandmother stood by the irises. I covered my ears at the high-pitched noise of a saw cutting a tree down. I knew without seeing, it was Granddad Irish. I met my grandmother’s eyes. She didn’t speak. Her voice came to me without her lips moving.

"Don't forget, my dear what you are to be about. Just like the iris, you are beautiful on the