The Magic Touch @page { margin-bottom: 5.000000pt; margin-top: 5.000000pt; } � � � The Magic Touch By Dara England � � � Smashwords Edition Copyright © 2011 Dara England Edited by Anne Victory Cover art by Dara England � ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Excepting brief review quotes, this book may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written permission of the copyright holder. The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. � This is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, real events, locations, or organizations is purely coincidental. � � � DEDICATION � For my boys, Chris and Sampson. Chapter One � � The door opened and a bleary-eyed, unshaven face beneath a shock of dark hair appeared. Squinting into the brighter light of the hall, the young man looked dazed as he took in the sight of her standing before him, but Ambrielle wasn’t fazed by that. It was one o’clock in the morning and in her business you didn’t exactly call ahead. At the guy’s feet, a little red dachshund poked its inquisitive nose out into the hall and viewed her with the same sleepy eyes as its owner. �śCan I, uh, can I help you?” the guy asked. She had always liked his voice. It was blunt and honest, just like the man to whom it belonged. Even groggy, half asleep, and reeking with the sour odor of old beer, or maybe because of all these things, he was very readable. She could have traced the worries written across his face like lines on a page, even if she hadn’t watched over him all of his twenty-eight years. His eyes were ambient gold, not just a simple shade of brown but the unique hue of autumn maple leaves under the glow of an early morning sun. They could hide nothing, those eyes. The contours of his face were lean, but attractively so, his high cheekbones contrasting with a wide jaw and a long, tapering nose with a slight hump in the middle where he had busted it falling off a slide as a kid. He bore a matching scar from the same accident across his left eyebrow. Both dark brows were drawn together now in a puzzled expression. He was still waiting for her to answer. Ambrielle smiled. �śNo, Danny, I don’t need any help. As a matter of fact, I’m here to help you.” He didn’t open the door any further but suddenly looked alert. �śI don’t understand. Have we met?” She tilted her head. �śLet’s just say I’ve watched you, but you haven’t seen me.” �śOkaaay�Ś” He looked uneasy and she felt his tawny gaze sweeping her up and down, from the tips of her pink painted toenails to the top of her dark head of curls. She was well aware her figure showed nicely under her fitted blouse and short, white skirt. She had wanted to make a good impression for this first meeting and had dressed with more care than usual. Oddly, he didn’t seem impressed. �śUh, thanks anyway,” he said, backing away, �śBut I don’t need help with anything. I’m doing just fine.” As simply as that, he would have shut the door in her face, had Ambrielle not been quick thinking enough to stick one high-heeled shoe in the door. �śNow you know that’s just not true, Danny. How can you be fine when you’ve just broken up with Charlotte? Again.” The look he turned on her was a mixture of surprise and annoyance. �śListen, I don’t know how you know my name or about me breaking up with my girlfriend, but it’s none of your business. I don’t even know who you are.” She wasn’t to be deterred that easily. �śMy name’s Ambrielle,” she introduced herself. When he simply stared at the carefully manicured hand she offered, she shrugged. She hadn’t expected this to be easy. Luckily, she still had her high heel wedged in the door and she used that leverage now to squeeze her petite frame through the doorway, careful not to step on the curious little dachshund sniffing around her feet. �śHey, what are you doing?” Despite his protests, he had no alternative but to give ground. It was either that or stand toe-to-toe with her, allowing her to thrust her face within inches of his. It was clear he wasn’t eager to be that close to her. But that didn’t mean he was giving up. �śListen,” he said as she shouldered her way into the apartment, �śI don’t know what you’re trying to do but you can’t just force your way in here. I’ll call the landlord, don’t think I won’t. If you’re a tenant here, I can get you evicted.” Ambrielle ignored his threats, surveying her surroundings under the dim lighting of several glowing lamps scattered throughout the space. Her nose wrinkled with distaste. �śWhat is that smell?” No answer was necessary. A quick scan of the living area and the open kitchenette told her the moldy odor could have originated any one of a dozen places. The kitchen sink overflowed with filthy dishes, the garbage was spilling refuse out onto the hardwood floor. The black linoleum countertop dividing the kitchenette from the living room was smeared with what may or may not have been peanut butter. And that was just the start. As she strolled further into the room, she took in the wreckage that was the living room. The furnishings were tasteful, she noted with approval. The brown leather sofas and armchairs fit well with the dark oak floors and the warmer color scheme of the walls and trim. But what would have been a cozy effect was spoiled by the way every available surface was cluttered with magazines, dirty clothes, used dishes, and odd bits of litter. Danny broke into her observations. �śI’m warning you one last time, you’d better get out.” He moved to the coffee table and snatched up a cell phone resting amid a scattering of old newspapers. �śLast chance,” he said. �śI’m going to make that call.” Ambrielle sighed. �śPut the phone down, Danny. I know as well as you that you’re bluffing.” �śYou’ve got to stop talking like you know me.” But he set the phone down, as she’d known he would. �śI see I’ve come none too soon,” she remarked, more to herself than to him, as she removed a pair of tennis shoes from an armchair and dusted off the seat. �śYour housekeeping skills are deteriorating as fast as your relationship with Charlotte.” As soon as she sat down, the little dachshund, now wide awake, sprang into her lap, tail wagging furiously, eyes begging for attention. �śBrutus, get down,” Danny ordered absently, but clearly his mind wasn’t on the dog. He appeared disturbed by Ambrielle’s actions, no doubt because they signaled her intent to stay awhile. Ambrielle scratched behind the disobedient dachshund’s ears before gently pushing it back to the floor, where it crouched at her feet and gazed up at her with adoring eyes. At least she had one ally here. �śLook,” Danny said, �śI’m sure you’re a very sweet person and doubtless you have your reasons for whatever it is that you’re trying to do here. But you can’t just let yourself into my apartment without being invited. I’m having a bad night, it’s been a long, difficult week, and�" Are you listening?” She pulled her attention back from the series of framed family photos lining the end table at her elbow. �śWhy don’t you visit home anymore?” she asked. �śYou keep pictures of your mom and dad here. Clearly you love them. Why don’t you ever go back? I know your mom misses you.” The remark stopped him cold. �śHow do you know my family?” he asked. �śHey, no need to get overprotective,” she admonished. �śI wouldn’t hurt any of them for the world. But I love that you worry about them.” �śAre you somebody I used to know back home?” he asked, suddenly studying her in a different light. �śDid you go to Longfield High?” �śDefinitely not,” she laughed. �śBut I watched you go there. I saw every prank you ever played on the lunch lady and even watched you join the basketball team to impress Hottie Haley Hart. Watched you get kicked off the team, too.” She sobered at the memory. �śThat was a depressing show. Couldn’t you have at least tried to get our team a basket once in a while? The other fairy godmothers were laughing me off the sidelines.” He made a strange, choking sound. �śThe other what? ” Chapter Two � � �śYou heard me.” She picked up an empty mug from the end table and examined the brownish stains ringing the bottom. �śDo you think you could wash this out and bring me some more of whatever was in it? I’m usually snoozing at this hour, so I could use a cup or two of coffee to pick me up.” He didn’t seem to hear the request. �śWhat did you just call yourself?” She sighed. �śHoney, I hate repeating myself. I’m only gonna give you the rundown one time and then I’ll field questions. So keep quiet and listen and try not to say �śwhat?” too many times. It makes you look stupid and I know you’re not an idiot. You’re a bright guy when you want to be.” �śThanks,” he said sarcastically. �śIt’s always nice to get a good report from my fairy-godmother. Seriously, I think it’s time for you to go.” �śAnd leave all your questions unanswered and your life in a shambles?” �śAssuming I have questions, I don’t think any of them can be answered by a crazy lady who thinks she’s my fairy-godmother. And my life isn’t in any �śshambles”. He was starting to look impatient. She shook her head. �śNo cases are as hopeless as the ones who don’t even know they’re lost. Listen, whether you recognize it or not, your life has run far off the track, and if I don’t take a hand soon it’s going to be a colossal train wreck. That’s why I’ve come to you now. We godmothers don’t get to step in and appear to our protégés any time we like. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. That’s why you and I have to make this visit count.” �śVisit?” he looked perplexed. �śThat’s right. You’re mine for the next twenty-four hours and I’ve got just that amount of time to straighten your affairs out. And that’s going to take some work. Luckily, I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve because, brother, I’m going to need them all.” He snorted. Running a long-fingered hand through his dark curls, he looked torn between annoyed disbelief and grudging interest. �śI suppose you’ve got a magic wand up your sleeve, too,” he said. She sensed now was the moment to bring out the big guns. �śNever carry wands up my sleeve; I’ve lost too many that way. No, the proper place for a wand is stowed away somewhere safe.” She dragged her tiny, beaded handbag off her elbow and reached inside. He raised his eyebrows and she was surprised to note the hint of a smile lurking around the edge of his lips. �śOf course. You carry your magic wand around in your purse.” �śYou needn’t sound so skeptical.” She dug around in the shallow pocket a moment before finding what she wanted and slipping it out into the open. Danny was unimpressed. �śThat’s your wand? A tube of lipstick?” She smiled. �śAh, Danny, always such a doubter. Educating you is going to be more fun than I’d expected.” Swirling the tube of lipstick in the air three times, she silently mouthed the spell she knew by heart and, quick as magic, the short tube transformed into a twelve-inch rod, light as paper and clear as glass. Danny started at the transformation. �śWhat�"? How�"?” She waved him to silence. �śQuestions later. First, let’s get this roach den cleared out. The smell in here’s about to make me sick.” Remaining frozen in place, he seemed unable to tear his gaze away from the glass wand in her hand. Softly, as if to himself, he muttered, �śI can’t believe it. Somebody tell me I’m just having a crazy dream.” She looked around distastefully. �śI don’t know what kind of dreams you have but if this were one of my dreams, there wouldn’t be moldy pizza on the coffee table. But never mind, it’s easily taken care of.” Again muttering a low string of secret words under her breath, she flicked the wand in the general direction of the dirty coffee table. Instantly, paper trash, old half-eaten food, and every other kind of clutter covering the tabletop lifted into the air. Mind on her task, she tuned out everything else and was scarcely aware of Danny’s bugged-out eyes as he watched her perform her magic. One mess after another, she waved her wand at them and bid them all carry themselves to their proper places. Paper plates and carryout boxes floated through the air to drop into the full trashcan. Filthy heaps of clothes and mud-encrusted shoes slithered or walked along the floor, propelled by an invisible force as strong as any human hand. As if of their own accord, the handles over the faucet of the kitchen sink turned on and hot water began spewing out onto the pile of dirty dishes. When it could hold no more garbage, the bag in the trashcan tied its own mouth closed and leapt out of the can, floating over to lean against the front door. A kitchen drawer opened and a new bag popped out to replace the old. Ambrielle walked through the entire apartment like that, moving from room to room, pausing only long enough to murmur a few magic words and give a wave of her wand to set the rooms to tidying themselves. Danny followed after her, mouth hanging open in a very unattractive way, but Ambrielle told herself she shouldn’t be too hard on him. A lot of people had never seen magic before and it took some getting used to. Besides it must feel to him as if this was all happening very fast. By the time they had made their circuit of the small apartment and were back in the living room, he had at least managed to stop gaping like a fish. �śI uh, think maybe I’m ready to hear that explanation now about what you are and why you’re here.” She had to give him credit for a reasonably steady voice. His legs must have been weaker than he was letting on, however, because he dropped heavily to the couch. She took pity on him. �śPoor baby, you’re having a hard time with this, aren’t you?” She sank into the armchair opposite him. �śMaybe I should have introduced myself and my magic in a less shocking way.” He just shook his head. �śYou’re not even as old as I am,” he said disbelievingly. �śHow can you be my godmother?” She smiled sympathetically. �śNow you’re talking silly. I’m hundreds of years older than you. We godmothers just age slowly, that’s all.” �śSo you can live forever?” �śOf course not, nobody lives forever. But I do have an extended life span, as a side effect from so many years spent working with magic.” �śAnd you use your magic for what?” �śTo look out for you, naturally. You might say you’re the whole purpose of my existence. But don’t go and get a big head over it. Disappoint me too much and I can always abandon you to handle your own troubles.” �śMy troubles?” �śDon’t pretend you don’t know what I mean. Anyone can see you need help managing your life. I’ve let you do it your way for nearly thirty years and look how far it’s gotten you. You’re unhappily single and you have a terrible job.” �śActually, I have a very good job.” �śA very good paying job that you hate,” she amended. �śThat’s hardly indicative of a bright future. Then there’s Charlotte.” For the first time since learning her identity, he showed signs of annoyance again. �śDon’t worry about Charlotte. I’ll get her back and I don’t need your help to do it.” She didn’t allow herself to be ruffled. �śThat just shows how little you know your own abilities. Charming the ladies has never been one of your talents. It didn’t win you Hottie Haley Hart, did it?” �śThat’s none of your business.” �śOn the contrary. Anything that affects you is completely my business. I’ve told you, I exist for no other purpose but to guide your life.” Apparently he didn’t like the sound of that, because he became suddenly abrupt. �śThis is crazy. This is not happening to me.” He rushed to his feet but as soon as he got there he appeared uncertain as to what to do with himself. He began pacing around the coffee table. �śI know you’re real,” he said, as if working things out in his mind. �śI’ve seen your magic and I’m surrounded by the results, so there’s no use denying it.” �śI’m glad we agree on that.” �śBut there’s something else I know, too, and that is that there’s only so much a man can take in a single day. I’ve lost my girlfriend, as you’ve already pointed out, and as you no doubt also know, my job is just hanging by a thread. Any day now I expect to be the next victim of the downsizing. They’ve already taken out half the department. And now, on top of everything else, there’s�Ś well, you. I just don’t think I can handle all this right now. I’m sorry.” Chapter Three � � She frowned. �śWhat are you getting at? This sounds like your break-up speech from two girlfriends ago.” He glared, probably unhappy to discover yet another personal event in his life she’d been an invisible witness to. �śI’m saying I’m going to have to let you go. Or however it is that you fire a fairy godmother. I release you from your ties to me and I set you free. Whatever. Just don’t be hovering around in the sky watching me anymore. It’s enough to give a guy the creeps.” She straightened in her chair to fix him with an evil look. �śIs this the thanks I get for going out of my way help you? I have other things to do with my time, you know. Do you think I don’t have other charges to look after? That’s right, believe it or not, baby-sitting you isn’t my idea of a great way to spend the next twenty-four hours, either.” �śThen why do it?” he shot back. She hesitated. It was a sticky point he’d brought up, one she’d hoped not to have to share. She fiddled with the bangle bracelets on one slender wrist and suddenly found an excuse to look anywhere but at him. �śYou could say this is a special assignment for me, a chance to, well�Ś” There was no way around it. She might as well admit the truth. �śA chance to redeem myself, so to speak.” There was a moment of silence, during which Danny gave a polite cough. �śSo you’re telling me out of all the fairy godmothers in the world, I get the one who’s on probation?” �śListen, honey, I can tell you there’re a lot worse fairy godmothers out there than me.” He wasn’t to be deterred. �śSo what did you do? To get into trouble, I mean?” She shifted uncomfortably. �śNothing so bad. I might have been distracted once or twice and let some of my less-bright charges get into a bit of hot water while I was busy elsewhere. There was a little incident of one in particular who suffered a brief lapse of judgment and ran away with the father-of-the-groom on her wedding day. Then there was another minor situation where I let a charge get drunk, shave her head, and take an axe to her boyfriend’s car. The good news is the first girl is now happily married to her would-be father-in-law and the second only has a little jail time left. All in all, no big deal.” �śAnd how do I enter in to all of this?” he asked. She shrugged. �śA couple of bigwigs on the godmother council came up with the crazy notion I wasn’t cut out for godmothering. It was nonsense, but between them they had the power to cut me out of the business forever, unless I complied with a skill test to prove I still have what it takes. The hardest part was coming up with some loser so far gone it would be an all but impossible task to drag him back from the brink.” �śSomeone like me, you mean.” �śDon’t take it the wrong way. You were one of my charges, anyway, and it was clear you needed intervention of a supernatural sort. So I’ve been changed into low-profile form to come down here and walk you through the steps to lifelong success. If I can accomplish that, no one will ever doubt my talents again.” He looked unhappy. �śIn other words, you get some kind of fairy points for helping me?” �śNow you’re getting it, sweetheart. So what do you say, are we going to whip you into shape or not?” �śNot.” He frowned. �śSorry to cut into your plans but I’ve got my own life to live and I think I’m capable of managing it without fairy assistance.” As he finished speaking, a small pendulum clock on the end table chimed the hour. Danny glanced at it. �śAnd now, if you don’t mind, tomorrow is a work day and I’ve only got a couple hours left to get in some sleep.” She stood. �śYou’re right, it’s late. We’ll both have clearer heads and be ready for tackling all of this in the morning.” He shook his head. �śI don’t think so. I prefer to live my life for myself. But,” he said, sticking out a hand, �śit’s been, uh, interesting meeting you. I’m sure you’re a lovely fairy and I wish you a lot of success in the godmothering field.” She was only half listening as she gathered her wand and bag. �śUh-huh. I won’t be bothering you any more tonight, I’ll just find a place to crash and we’ll talk this out over breakfast. Sweet dreams.” He followed her across the room. �śUm, where are you going?” he asked. She shook out her hair. �śWell, the bedroom’s this way, isn’t it? I like my space, so you’ll have to sleep on the couch in the living room. Sweet dreams.” She didn’t give him a chance to protest as she disappeared into the bedroom and shut the door in his face. Dropping her purse in the corner, she surveyed the new quarters she’d be living in. The bed was roomy, the furnishings adequate. But she could do better than that. Digging out her glass wand, she mouthed a couple of special spells she knew and transformed the plain surroundings into something a little more to her taste. Chapter Four � � Danny didn’t know what it was that woke him a few hours later. One minute he was deep in the middle of some bizarre dream, a weird journey back to his high-school days where Coach Simpson was yelling at him on the basketball court and invisible fairies were giggling at him from the sidelines. The next minute he was airborne, leaping out to make a slam dunk, the likes of which he’d never made in real life. The net was coming closer, he felt light as air, he was sure he was going to make the basket this time�Ś And then he came crashing back to earth. The high school gym disappeared and Coach Simpson’s voice in the background faded to nothing. For a brief instant Danny didn’t know up from down. And then his head bashed into something solid and wooden. With a yell, he rolled around until he got his head above the level of his feet again. Dazed and disoriented, he took in his situation and found himself sprawled on the living room floor, his head throbbing from its impact against the edge of the coffee table. What was he doing here? It took a moment for the memory of the previous night to sink in. Then he remembered a strange dream about an �śI’m a fairy” woman sleeping in his bedroom and him being pushed into a restless night on the narrow living room couch. Right. The godmother chick. Was she just another dream? Beneath the broad light of day, any other idea seemed impossible. He scrambled to his feet, rubbing at the tender spot on his head, and loped off down the hallway to peer into his bedroom. He expected to find his clothes scattered around the floor and the bed messy but unslept in. What met his eyes instead was nothing short of a nightmare. The godmother woman of his dream was nowhere in sight, but whatever had hit this room had been very real and had left its mark. The comfy blue-and-tan plaid comforter he used to bury himself in at night had been replaced by a green-and-brown bedding set with a swirling design and a decidedly hippy-from-the-sixties vibe. Floor-to-ceiling curtains of carved wooden beads separated the bed from the rest of the room, and the theme was continued in swathes of green fabric looped over the dresser. The furnishings hadn’t been tampered with, but they had been rearranged to create an open look he didn’t approve of. His clothing and personal belongings seemed to have evaporated. Worst of all was the sight of Brutus, the traitor, sleeping happily, curled up on a tiny, canopied dog bed. As Danny stumbled away from the doorway, he asked himself if he could be dreaming even now. Then his ears caught a soft rushing noise from down the hall. Running water. Following the sound, he arrived at the bathroom door just as the water was being shut off. The door stood open a crack. Peeking cautiously around the corner, he was met with the sight of a strange woman exiting his shower, wrapped in a blue towel. Her black hair was sleeked away from her face and ran in long, wet strands down her back, a few short, loose tendrils clinging interestingly to her bared neck and shoulders. She was busy detangling her wet locks with her fingers but must have caught a fleeting glimpse of his reflection in the mirror. Or possibly it was just some eerie fairy sense that informed her of his presence. �śAbout time somebody woke up,” she said. He jumped, guiltily, but she didn’t seem concerned about being stumbled upon in a strange man’s bathroom with no more clothing than a wide strip of terrycloth. She said, �śI thought you were going to sleep the day away. Why don’t you go and get us some coffee and breakfast started? I could use it.” Danny found himself at a loss for words. He stepped silently aside as she passed him in the doorway and moved off down the hall. In the kitchen, when he didn’t make a move toward the cabinets she sighed and helped herself, dropping a pair of Pop-Tarts into the toaster and starting up the coffee maker. He tried not to stare as she moved around preparing breakfast. Conversation seemed the safest way to ease the awkward lull, although he seemed to be the only one who was uncomfortable. �śSo, you’re real after all,” he said. �śDid you think I wasn’t?” She brought two coffee mugs down from the cabinet over the sink, moving unhesitatingly, as if already knowing where everything was kept. But then, she would know, wouldn’t she? His head ached and he was no longer sure if it was the blow to the head or this whole strange situation that was causing the pain. �śI thought maybe last night was just a dream,” he admitted. �śI figured my imagination had conjured you up.” �śWell, that’s very flattering of you, Danny. But, between the two of us, I don’t think your imagination has ever been quite this creative. Even as a kid you didn’t invent imaginary friends like most children do.” �śWould you stop doing that?” he asked. �śReferring to my childhood as if you were sitting around even then, watching me grow up.” �śBut I was.” �śI know, I know. But I’m not exactly comfortable hearing you talk about little boy Danny like some doting old aunt. Especially not when you’re walking around like�Ś” He let his words trail off and gestured at her partially bared figure. She hesitated. �śOh, I see. I didn’t mean to make you feel weird.” �śWeird isn’t exactly the word I would use.” �śOkay, okay, I get you. Just give me five minutes to make myself more godmotherly. You better grab the tarts before they burn.” And with that, she disappeared into the bedroom. She returned quickly, clothed in a different outfit from the one she had been wearing yesterday. He decided not to ask. For all he knew she had an entire wardrobe shrunk down to fit into that tiny handbag of hers. Or maybe she just waved her wand and anything she wanted appeared. He felt queasy thinking about it. Today she’d gone for an entirely different look from yesterday’s. She wore a flowing green, ankle-length dress with no sleeves. Leather sandals were on her feet and her curly hair was worn loose, with the top half pulled back into a long side-braid. A beaded leather thong was worked into the braid and between that and the many charms dangling from her wrists and ankles she made a gentle, jingling noise as she walked, reminding him of that children’s rhyme �ś Rings on her fingers and bells on her toes .” There was a thick string around her neck from which a peace-sign pendant dangled between her breasts. He decided she looked like someone who should be playing bongo drums in the park. �śAre all fairy godmothers like this?” He indicated the jewelry. �śWhat? Peace-lovers? Depends on the godmother. Personally I wake up with a different mood for every day and I dress to fit it. But we all have personalities and preferences as varied as regular people, you know. We’ve even got our mafia fairies.” He snorted a laugh that died the instant his gaze fell on the microwave clock behind her. The large blue numbers shot an unpleasant jolt through him. �śTen o’clock! Why didn’t you tell me it was so late? I should have been at work hours ago.” She shrugged. �śYou seemed like you needed time to relax.” �śRelax?” he demanded over his shoulder, scrambling into the living room. �śWith the department downsizing and my boss looking for the next weak link to cut, do you think I can afford to relax?” He didn’t wait for an answer. Where were his shoes? There was no time for a shave, no time to change out of the rumpled clothing he’d slept in. There were the shoes. Triumphantly snagging them out from under the edge of the sofa, he hastily dragged them on before grabbing his cell phone. Snatching his car keys from a hook on the wall, he was halfway out the front door, having all but forgotten the woman he’d left behind in the kitchen. She called out to him, �śYou know, I was thinking you might send Charlotte some roses today.” That brought him back. �śWhoa, hold on there.” He fixed her with a glare. �śI’m pretty sure I’ve said this before, but just to reiterate�Ś stay out of my business . And keep away from Charlotte. I’ll make up with her in my own time and my own way.” She shrugged. �śSuit yourself. Just don’t leave it so long she thinks you’re going to let her go without a fight. Anyway, have a good day. See you for lunch.” He frowned. �śI don’t think so, lady. I’ve gotta work through my lunch break if I want to make up for the lost time.” She didn’t seem to hear that last part. �śI prefer Ambrielle to �ślady”. Meet you in the park across from work. I’ll bring Chinese. You know you love it.” Shaking his head, he didn’t bother with an answer, instead ducking out into the corridor and closing the door behind him. He didn’t know what this day would bring him, but he had a hunch that, between his irritable boss and the tenacious godmother, by evening he was going to wish he’d never opened his eyes this morning. Chapter Five � � Despite arriving late, the morning passed slowly for Danny, and he had time to think about Ambrielle’s warning about Charlotte. He sensed it was too soon for a phone call, but maybe a dozen roses delivered to his ex at work, together with a note of apology, wouldn’t go amiss. He made the order over the phone and promised himself he wouldn’t think about it for the rest of the day, wouldn’t wonder if she’d call when she got the flowers. By the time lunchtime rolled around his stomach was rumbling. Maybe, just maybe, he’d break for a bit to eat after all. A glance out the office window revealed a sight he found disturbing. The fairy, true to her word, had shown up and taken a seat in the little park across the street, where she was obviously waiting for him. In fact, the words, �ślying in wait” came to mind. Against his better judgment, he decided to join her. It was a windy day out, and the state flag flying from a pole at the heart of the park snapped smartly on the breeze. Around Danny’s feet, bits of paper litter tumbled freely across the green lawn, propelled by the swirling winds. The grass was still damp from this morning’s light drizzle but now the gray clouds broke. A warm beam of sunshine slanted down from above and seemed to center like a halo over the petite, curly-haired figure waiting patiently on a bench halfway across the park. As he approached, Danny half suspected her of planning the break in the weather just for the benefit of their little picnic. Then he shook his head. Maybe he was losing it. She had changed her clothes again - did the woman have an endless wardrobe? The hippy clothing had been replaced by a short white skirt and a fitted blouse, paired with black tights. She had brought Brutus along and the little dog pranced around her feet in a purple sweater the fairy must’ve conjured for him. Danny ignored the traitorous little dog. �śI told you not to come,” he said by way of welcome, as he sank down onto the stone seat beside Ambrielle. She thrust a carton of chow mein into his hands. Chinese, just as she had promised. �śYou knew I wouldn’t listen,” she answered, unfazed by his cold welcome. �śBesides, you needed to come out. It’s no good being locked away in a stuffy office on a day like this. You know you hate it.” �śA day like this? It’s been cold and rainy all morning.” He indicated her purple-striped umbrella leaning against the arm of the bench. She waved a hand. �śJust a light drizzle. I have a feeling it’s going to clear off and be a lovely day.” Mouth already stuffed with warm noodles, he didn’t bother with an answer. What good would it do him? She didn’t join in his meal, seeming to have other matters on her mind. �śDid you tell him yet?” Between mouthfuls, he found room to ask, �śTell who what?” She sighed patiently. �śYour boss. Did you give your notice yet?” He nearly spat out his chow mein. �śNotice? Who said anything about giving notice?” �śI did last night. Remember? We had a discussion about turning your life around and we decided it would be best if you found better work. This job is no good for you.” �ś We discussed? We decided? As I remember it, you did a lot of talking and I listened. This is my life, you know. You don’t get to make these decisions for me.” She raised a brow. �śAlright, then. What have you decided to do about your situation?” �śI wasn’t aware I had a situation. I’m fine with the way things are. The world is still turning and will be tomorrow, I hope. All I have to do is persuade Charlotte to get over our little misunderstanding and my life is back where I want it. End of story. I’m afraid I don’t see where you fit into any of that.” She shook her head, tucking a strand of loose hair behind one ear. The wind whipped it out again and she let it be. �śI told you I hate to repeat myself. Don’t make me explain what’s wrong with your life all over again. Denial isn’t going to get you anywhere.” �śI am not in denial. I’m realistic about my life and you’re not, that’s all. Not everybody gets to live in a fantasy world, where they have the perfect life, the dream job�Ś” �śAnd where they get their old girlfriend back?” He returned his attention to the food. You let me worry about that,” he said. �śI’ve got the thing with Charlotte covered.” �śI’m sure you do. No doubt in that peanut-sized brain of yours, you’ve even got a plan for how you’re going to work it all out, your way.” �śAs a matter of fact, I do.” �śMy plan is better.” She sighed in an it’s-your-funeral way. �śNot interested.” Before further debate could ensue, he cut her off with, �śYou haven’t tried your fried rice yet. What’s the matter, don’t fairies ever eat?” She shrugged narrow shoulders. �śIf we want. It’s not a necessity for us like it is for you guys. Food and drink are something we take for the enjoyment, not for the need of it. Why? Would it make you more comfortable if I joined you?” �śMuch more comfortable,” he said, covering up the unease her words stirred within him. This whole situation was too unreal. It was bad enough to be sitting on a park bench chatting with his godmother�"his freaking fairy godmother. How was a guy supposed to handle that? He watched her pick through the takeout bag at her feet. She had pretty, delicate little feet inside black lace-up sandals. Tiny silver charms dangled around her toes and ankles and jingled when she moved. It had been a long time since he’d found any woman other than Charlotte attractive, but�Ś Yeah, this was a dangerous direction his thoughts were taking. He was suddenly eager to escape. �śHey, listen, I have to get moving.” He made a pretense of glancing at his watch. She started to protest, �śBut you’ve only been here a few minutes. We’ve barely talked.” �śUh-huh, but I’ve got a mountain of work to catch up on.” �śWork.” She narrowed her eyes. �śYou know, I’m not going to give up on this. Your days working in that office are over.” �śRight,” he said vaguely, discarding his chow mein carton and sliding out of his seat. �śListen, I’ll catch you later. Or not.” He hesitated. �śYou really don’t have to hang around, godmother.” �śCall me Ambrielle.” �śSure, Ambrielle. I appreciate all you’re trying to do for me, but I really think you’d be better off going back to�Ś” He wanted to say Fairyland but didn’t know if she’d take that as a flippant remark. Where exactly did fairy godmothers live, anyway? She rescued him. �śSorry to squash your hopes, Danny, but I’ll be right here when you get back.” �śRight here? As in right here? ” How could he work when every time he passed the office window he was gonna have to glance down and see her sitting and waiting, like some kind of vulture? She smiled. �śMaybe. Now you’d better rush off. Showing up late might cause trouble with the boss and that kind of thing could cost a man in your precarious position his job.” He didn’t like her choice of words, or the scheming glint in her eyes as she said it. But what could he do? He turned his back on her, although it felt a little like turning his back on a wolf in a lamb’s skin, and returned to work. Chapter Six � � The rest of the workday was like something out of a twisted dream, the kind of dream where you can’t decide whether you’re supposed to be laughing or afraid. Danny had no sooner returned from his lunch break and sat down to work when the phone where he took his service calls died. A brief examination of the cord revealed it had been pulled from the wall connection. Neither Harry, in the cubicle to his left, nor Diana, on his right, had seen anyone tampering with the cord. �śThese things happen,” Mr. Dolhouser, the office manager, said with a shake of his head when Danny reported the problem. Despite his boss’s words, Danny sensed the man somehow blamed him for the malfunctioning phone. Danny collected his things and moved to an empty cubicle with a working phone at the far end of the office. But if he thought his troubles were over, he was wrong. Immediately after moving into his new workspace he discovered the hardcopy files he needed from his old desk were missing. �śHey, Diana?” He ducked his head into her cubicle. �śAny chance you’ve seen my data files? I swear they were on my desk a minute ago, but it seems like they’ve walked off.” The young woman wrinkled her freckled nose and shrugged. A bald head appeared over the wall of the cubicle behind her, followed by a pair of watery eyes peering down on them. �śHow about you, Howard?” Danny asked the clumsy eavesdropper. Silent and socially awkward, Howard had a knack for noticing things no one else picked up on. �śI saw a folder,” he admitted, glancing around nervously. �śI saw it on your desk but then it floated away.” His eyes rolled ominously. A guffaw broke out from a passing coworker. �śSounds like you’ve got on the wrong side of a spook, Danny.” Danny tried to laugh along. �śAlright, everybody. I’m getting back to work, but whenever you get tired of this little joke, would whoever moved the file please put it back on my desk?” It went on like that all afternoon. Most of it was harmless little pranks. Things disappearing from his cubicle or the clock radio at his elbow turning itself on at blaring volume. All of it was disruptive but Danny fought to ignore it because he was developing an unpleasant suspicion about who was responsible and was determined not to give her the satisfaction of victory. She thought she could drive him away with her magic tricks, did she? Thought she could make his work life so miserable he’d want to quit? He could almost feel her now, breathing over his shoulder, watching his fingers tapping at the keyboard as she planned her next attack. It came shortly before quitting time. He was minding his own business, typing away at his computer, eyes glued to the screen, when he heard a sharp squeal behind him. Suddenly something heavy clonked him across the back of the head. �śOw!” He ducked, narrowly avoiding another blow as a plastic clipboard was swung toward him like a club. �śAnne, what are you doing?” Slithering to the floor and ducking low to take shelter behind his chair, he peered cautiously up at the attractive brunette towering over him. He’d never gotten along with Mr. Dolhouser’s female assistant, but it wasn’t like her to bring the feud to blows. She didn’t look sorry as she stood before him, arms followed across the front of her white blouse. �śServes you right, Daniel,” she snapped. �śWhat do you mean pinching my bottom like that? You just wait until I tell Mr. Dolhouser.” Danny clutched his throbbing skull. �śWhat do you mean �Śpinching’? I don’t know what you’re babbling about.” But he did. Horribly, he did. He murmured into the thin air around him. �śYou’ve gone too far this time.” If Ambrielle was floating around him somewhere, invisible, she gave no indication she heard. But Anne did and she glowered at him. �śNo, it’s you who’ve gone too far, Daniel. There are laws against harassing women in the workplace.” �śAnne, please, just let me explain.” But she had already whirled and was stalking off toward Mr. Dolhouser’s office, angrily swinging her clipboard as she went. That was probably just as well, since Danny couldn’t imagine what sort of explanation he would’ve given anyway that wouldn’t leave him looking like a lunatic. He scrambled after Anne with the unpleasant feeling whatever was coming wasn’t going to end well. � * * * � And end well, it didn’t. Danny’s emotions were mixed as he rode the elevator down to the first floor of the office building, carrying a cardboard box full of all his personal effects. He was still on fire with embarrassment after the awkward confrontation in Mr. Dolhouser’s office. Having all his coworkers looking on as security escorted him to his cubicle to collect his things was a silent and humiliating affair. Now it felt weird, knowing he’d never set foot on this elevator again. For the past five years it had taken him to and from his doom in that tight little cubicle in that stuffy little office. He couldn’t deny he felt a slight twinge of relief at the knowledge he would never see this hated place or any of these people again. But the bad feelings outweighed the good. He’d been fired, something that had never happened to him before. He’d been falsely accused, humiliated, and chewed out by his boss. He faced unemployment and a possible lawsuit. All because some godmother had decided to meddle. As he crossed the parking lot and loaded the box into the passenger seat of his car, he didn’t even glance across the street toward the park. Nevertheless, he had no doubt she was out there somewhere, watching. Chapter Seven � � �śSexual harassment?” Danny stood in the doorway to the apartment, staring at the fairy woman in disbelief. Unperturbed by his deadly glare or by the happy little Brutus skipping around her feet, she bustled around the kitchen, scarcely even glancing up from her work. A cookbook lay open on the counter and a light dusting of flour coated Ambrielle’s hands. She had ditched her previous clothing yet again for a more casual outfit of a pink blouse and denim capris. A polka-dotted apron covered her from neck to slender waist with the instructions Kiss the Fairy across the front. Danny felt like doing anything but. �śAnd harassment toward a coworker at that,” she said lightly. �śYou should be ashamed of yourself, Danny.” Her curly head remained bent over the cookbook. Danny dropped the cardboard box he had been lugging. It hit the floor with a thud that echoed through the still apartment, but Ambrielle didn’t even start at the noise. �śI was ashamed,” he agreed in a dangerous tone. �śThanks to you, my coworkers now think I’m a perv, and Anne is threatening to bring charges to court.” �śAnd all because you had to be stubborn.” �śAll because what? ” She faced him. �śI warned you to give notice, but you wouldn’t listen. I gave you the chance to get away without a fuss, but you wouldn’t take it. What is that but stubbornness?” She stood before him, not defiantly, but with a casual air as if they were discussing dinner options or talking about what was going to be on TV. Her easy attitude was what got to him most. She wasn’t concerned with his troubles. Why should she be? This wasn’t her life she was ruining. Something in him snapped then. He took hold of her narrow shoulders, turning her to face him. �śI’m sure you mean well,” he said. �śI don’t doubt you even think you’re doing me some good. But, frankly, this godmother thing isn’t working out. And so, without further ado I just want to say �Śgoodbye and good luck.’” And before she could react, he suddenly swept her slender body up in his arms. A startled squeak escaped her lips, but he didn’t give her time to get another word out. Didn’t they always say something in the stories about not giving fairies a chance to put a spell on you? He carried her swiftly to the open front door, deposited her lightly in the empty hall, and retreated as soon as her feet touched the carpet, slamming the apartment door in her face. At his feet, Brutus whined and gave him a reproachful look, but he didn’t care. Alone again, peace and well-being rolled over him. He still faced unemployment and a possible lawsuit from a coworker, but it was amazing how taking just one right step could make all the other pieces of your life fall into place. He’d take a relaxing evening off�"he deserved it�"and save his troubles for another day. His stomach rumbled sharply, reminding him he hadn’t eaten a full meal at lunchtime because he’d been in such a rush to escape Ambrielle. Now the smells coming from the oven made his mouth water. He also remembered his late rise this morning and how he’d had to scurry to get ready for work. There’d been no time for a shower or a shave. He’d take care of that now, while dinner was cooking. But first he needed to make sure he’d taken care of the godmother infestation around here. He pressed an ear to the front door and listened. No sound filtered through. All the same, he turned the lock and twisted the dead bolt for added security. With an angry fairy you could never be too careful. Then, whistling contentedly, he meandered down the hallway toward the bathroom, unbuttoning his shirt as he went. He felt good for the first time all day. Stepping into the bathroom, he started the water running and ducked back down the hall to see if he could find a change of clothes amid the mess Ambrielle had made of his bedroom. Chapter Eight � � �śWhat the�Ś? How did you get in here?” Ambrielle didn’t even open her eyes at the exclamations coming from the bathroom doorway, but sank a little deeper into the warm tub of water, letting the scented bubble bath close over her like a thick, foamy blanket. The heat felt good after a long day of wandering the real world, her ethereal feet bound up in very physical shoes. It was something she would have to get used to. With her heightened fairy senses, everything in their world seemed more painful and uncomfortable than it was in hers. Then again, the pleasure of a hot bath seemed somehow magnified for it, so maybe it was an even trade. �śI thought I was rid of you. I don’t understand�Ś” He sounded so confused that she took pity on him and peeped one eye open. �śOf course you don’t, Danny. But tell me what, specifically, confuses you and I’ll try to shed some light on it.” He shook his head. �śI locked you out. I distinctly remember turning the bolt. Then I walked in here, I ran the water�Ś” �śAnd that was nice of you. You must have realized how I needed a soak.” He just stared blankly through her. �śI went to my room, dug around in that hippy den you’ve made of it, looking for my clothes�"” �śDon’t strain your brain trying to make sense of it. Magical transportation isn’t something you could understand.” He was starting to look angry. �śYou can’t keep coming back into people’s houses after they’ve thrown you out.” �śHmm, the evidence would suggest the contrary. I just did it, so obviously I can .” �śThis is breaking and entering.” �śSince nothing was broken, technically it’s only entering.” �śI could call the cops and have you removed.” �śBy telling them what? Your fairy godmother won’t stay out of your bathtub?” �śThat’s enough. I’m finished with you, fairy, do you hear? I want you to take all your little fairy clothes and your wings and your wands and whatever else you’ve got stowed around here and be gone.” �śOr what?” She scooped up a handful of bubbles and blew them toward the ceiling. What made him so irritable all of a sudden? Then she remembered he had always been an anxious child so maybe that explained how he’d grown into such an impatient man. Sometimes people couldn’t help these things�"really they couldn’t. She said, �śWhat exactly is it that you want from me, Danny? How can I improve your bad day?” He eyed her suspiciously, as if uncertain what to make of such an offer. �śLike I said, you can start by getting out.” She shrugged. �śIf that’s what you want. But I’m not going anywhere on an empty stomach. I’ve got dinner in the oven.” He seemed to consider it. �śIf one last dinner is what it will take to get you out of here, dinner it is. But let’s not drag it out.” �śAs you wish. I’ll be right out.” She gripped the sides of the tub. �śWhoa, hey, not until I’m gone.” He backed hastily out the door. �śI’ve got enough twisted godmother memories from the shower this morning, thank you.” Well, that was one way of getting rid of him. Ambrielle whispered a spell and a set of clothing magically appeared, folded and waiting for her atop the counter. As she dressed, she applied her thoughts to how she was going to finish her work with Danny. A sharp tap at the door betrayed his impatience to send her on her way. �śAre you coming or not?” he called through the door. �śLet’s get on with this.” She shook her hair out and forced a carefree smile to her lips, calling back, �śNot so fast, I need time to prepare everything. You get out of here and come back in an hour.” And that was what he did. � * * * � When he returned to the apartment, he was greeted by a scene from a romantic chick-flick. Out on the fire escape a candlelit dinner waited for him, complete with a tiny table for two that the fairy had somehow managed to cram into the small space. There was the usual white tablecloth, champagne glasses, and a vase of roses. Even the long nose of a sleeping dachshund protruding from beneath the edge of the tablecloth didn’t seem terribly out of place. �śWhat’s all this?” He had no sooner taken a seat than she thrust a scrap of paper beneath his nose. She said, �śIt’s an ad for a small business prospect. A local landscaper is closing up shop and selling off his supplies and storage building lease. It’s not much, but he’s already got a solid customer base, so a new owner might be able to make something of the opportunity.” �śAnd this has what to do with me?” �śDon’t play dense. Obviously I’m thinking of you buying him out. You took a class in small business management a few years back and it’d be simple enough to take another course on landscaping and turf care. You enjoy working outdoors and this is your chance to be your own boss. And�Ś” She gave him a significant look. �śWe both know you’re currently in the market for a new job.” He snorted. �śAnd I’m supposed to leap to obey this newest whim of yours?” �śIt’s no whim, it’s been percolating in my head for�"” She checked her watch. �śAlmost an hour now.” �śAnd did you put the same amount of thought into how a guy in my position is supposed to come up with the money to finance this scheme? Even assuming I was interested, and I’m not saying I am, I haven’t got a lot of savings and no bank in their right mind would qualify me for a loan.” She waved a dismissive hand. �śYou might be surprised. I know the godmother of a local bank director and she owes me a favor.” He glared. He hated when she thought of everything. �śI’d have to draw up a business plan and work out a budget for that imaginary loan. There’d be a crazy amount of work involved.” �śThen it’s a lucky thing you’ve got plenty of time on your hands.” She produced a notepad and pen, seemingly out of nowhere, and shoved them across the table. Despite himself, Danny was interested. He knew this was a harebrained scheme born of desperation and fairy dust, but could it possibly succeed? A part of him itched to find out. And she was right; he did hold a certificate in small business management. How had she known about that old ambition he’d all but forgotten years ago? The woman was positively scary when she read his mind. He took up the pen and began to write. But no sooner did pen touch paper than he heard the ringing of the phone through the open door. He glanced into the living room, where his cell phone rested on the coffee table. �śThat’s Charlotte, calling to make up,” Ambrielle told him as casually as she might have said �śI burned the soufflé” or �śGo start up a new business you know nothing about.” �śWhat are you talking about? How could you possibly know that?” he demanded. She quirked a well-shaped eyebrow. �śLet me guess.” He sighed. �śYou know a fairy who knows a fairy.” �śAnd that fairy was told by a little bird that Charlotte misses you, she got your flowers, and she wants to get back together.” He didn’t know what to say. He was happy, of course, to know he might get another shot with the woman he loved but�Ś �śWhat do I say to her? Should I apologize right away or play it cool? If I tell her I just lost my job, will it scare her off?” Ambrielle rolled her eyes. �śHey, I got your career heading in the right direction again�"” �śActually, you got it heading in no direction.” �ś�"but I can’t be expected to take over your love life. You’ll have to handle that part yourself.” �śDoes this mean you’re done with fairy probation?” She smiled and for once there was nothing sly or cat-like in the expression. �śIt means I’ve done what I came to do and it’s time for me to go. I’ll miss you, Danny.” He was surprised to find the feeling was mutual. He was also acutely aware that in the other room the phone was on its tenth ring. She almost seemed to read his thoughts. �śGo pick up, Danny. New beginnings are more important than old goodbyes.” He stood, eyeing the phone through the open door. �śYeah, but you won’t go anywhere yet, will you? You’ll wait here until I get back?” Silence. He looked back across the table and she had vanished, leaving nothing but the lingering scent of her perfume behind. That and a few colorful specks floated in the evening air. Glitter from her dress? He doubted it. A short message was scrawled in lipstick across his notepad. Until Next Time . ABOUT THE AUTHOR � � Dara England writes a broad range of historical, fantasy, paranormal, and chick-lit fiction. She is a graphic designer and the stay-at-home mom of two girls and a dog named Sampson. Learn more about Dara by visiting her website at www.daraenglandauthor.com . She welcomes reader questions and comments, and her email address can be found on her website. � � � DARA ENGLAND RECOMMENDS � Available at Amazon.com � � � ALSO BY DARA ENGLAND � Accomplished In Murder ~ Historical Mystery Accomplished in Detection ~ Historical Mystery Love By The Book ~ Romantic Comedy This Side of Dawn ~ Paranormal Romantic Suspense The Mammoth Book of Irish Romance ~ Historical Fantasy Romance Thieves’ Magic Series ~ Epic Fantasy ~ Coming Fall 2011 � Visit www.daraenglandauthor.com for more info. Table of Contents Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three Chapter Four Chapter Five Chapter Six Chapter Seven Chapter Eight ABOUT THE AUTHOR