Jacob stared at his unrepentant sleeping wife. He wondered how she could have toned down her excitement enough to fall asleep. He stifled a further rise of disappointment. After spending the day feeling abandoned, he had been the one to get caught up in the activities of his father. He never knew when Cathy crept upstairs to bed.
Removing his clothes quickly, he took a shower and climbed into bed, carefully avoiding any disturbance. All his earlier efforts, aimed at trying to steer his wife into a romantic evening, faded completely as he sensed the rhythmic ebb and flow of her chest in the semi darkness. He lay stiffly on his side of the bed.
'Are you ever going to roll over and hold me?'
'I thought you were sound asleep.'
'And I thought you had abandoned me.'
'I'm not going to reply to that. You have been off in some other fashion world all afternoon and evening.'
'What were you and Dad talking about?' she said, her laughter fading as she sensed Jacob's disappointment. She had really been in another world, excited about a ball gown, to the exclusion of her husband.
'We were talking about the tunnels. He is not happy that we were so vulnerable to Kardin or anyone else who might want to overpower us. In the far corner of the basement, he found a connection to the upper chambers. He wants to explore a viable escape route in case of anything. It will mean digging out a wall.'
'Is there any danger to us Jacob?'
'Not immediately but the possibility exists. He just wants to be prepared.' Jacob paused waiting for a follow up comment. When she didn't respond he ventured a tentative question. 'What did you talk about with my mother?'
'Do I have to share? I really don't want to and you wouldn't be interested in girl talk. I would prefer to finish what we didn't even start.'
'What would that be?'
Cathy's laughter turned serious as she felt her husband's arm encircle her body. Turning slowly she found herself held tightly and drawn closer. She sighed into the darkness. Later her sighs would become ragged and breathless and endless.
The family breakfast became a truly enjoyable experience. Everyone's busy schedule kept them apart most days. Two times during the week they all agreed to try and meet for a lengthier meal in the morning and once in the evening to catch up on all the news. Jacob shared the information about his job but kept non committal in tone. His family was very encouraging. He sensed that his mother would have liked him to go to court more but Jacob didn't want to explain the difficulty of defending clients who were clearly guilty.
'Jacob if they tell you they didn't do it, why can't you defend them based on the information?'
'Not so simple Mama. You know the evidence must point in the direction of innocence. If it doesn't, then I find it hard to provide a good defense.'
'Would you rather be a prosecutor?'
'No. I am happy with the research part of it. I feel that even if they are guilty, I can look at the case and get the best defense for them based on models and standards from previous cases. You know, in law, mitigating circumstances don't matter but they can become a part of understanding the criminal mind. I hope to work towards the steps which can be taken to ensure a just trial and follow up rehabilitation. I am more interested in changing direction than winning cases. What use is a win if recidivism continues or if people are left to flounder once they get out.'
Catherine nodded. She had been a prosecutor. Her approach had also been fair and balanced but she went after her cases with every sense of right and wrong. The waters of justice were not so clear in defense.
'I understand son. You know best what will make you happy.'
Jacob leaned over and kissed his mother. He noticed that Cathy did not seem in a hurry to leave.
'I have something to do with Mom this morning Jacob. I will meet you later after school.'
Jacob didn't venture anymore comments. He smiled and shared another benign look with his father before leaving.
Vincent sensed that his presence was also superfluous. 'Do you need me today Catherine?'
'Later Vincent. Cathy and I have some catching up to do.'
The women and the two young girls went upstairs to watch the movie, which Cathy hoped would provide a clue to change her husband's view of her forever. She thought about the previous night and knew that he could not love her more. Their passion had been a satisfying delight to both of them. Still, Cathy sought some deeper sense of engagement from her husband.
The women watched the movie with intense scrutiny, observing the development of the relationship between the main characters. Even Mea and Cilla laughed and enjoyed the music. Sue, who declared that she used to dress and look like the reformed Sandy, declined to watch it again. At the end, Catherine laughed.
'I see what you mean. Well, I am sure that Sue will be able to work wonders on your hair but that outfit…'
'I don't want to look like her Mom. The style is too close to street dress of women who worked with my mother. I want no reminders of her life. I just want the dramatic look from Jacob and I don't know how to achieve it.
'I think I understand what you mean now. Day after tomorrow we'll go downtown and hunt for the perfect dress. I have a few phone calls to make first'
'Thanks Mom.'
Life in the Sanctuary had become very ordered. Much of the success of it came from Erin who managed the daily routines of the women with calm assurance. She monitored everyone who came and went, ensuring that they were well fed and rested. The ability to make a plan for the future seemed to elude many of the women. However those who thought they had no choices when they came down from above, were able to choose some pathway, based on their immediate needs, by the time they left.
Every morning, when Cathy visited the sanctuary, she and Erin would talk about the women and their concerns. Cathy would interview anyone new and follow up until the five allotted days were done. It was up to Erin to ensure that the women left when they felt able. The deadline was rarely negotiable but a quick turnover to some other sanctuary above allowed more women to be helped.
Very little animosity existed between the residents. An atmosphere of helpfulness was extended to all. It was an almost impossible model of care to fulfill and yet, for the most part, life was calm. Cathy knew there would be times when things got out of hand but the giants, although gentle, were able with mere presence alone, to stem any uprisings.
Merindia continued to be a part of the community above and below. She had taken on the task of being an aide to Brian in his efforts to obtain supplies for many shelters across the State. They had become a formidable team. None of the women knew the origin of their resources. They were grateful for the clothes, a little food and a warm comfortable bed. Cathy had no wish to be in contact with Brian. Merindia was an excellent go-between. She had her own reasons for continuing to work below.
Her father's failed bid to wed her to anther branch of the Bastet family left her skittish about the future. Virgil, who was to be her partner, had not liked being thwarted after negotiations were made in good faith. Both father and daughter tread a very fine line. Merindia was happy and productive, still startled by the profound change in her father. Her contribution made it possible for many women to leave the sanctuary better than when they came.
Once their morning conference was over, Cathy, who was still feeling relaxed and dreamy, lingered a little with Erin.
'You seem kind of different today Cathy. Has something happened? Are you pregnant?'
'No. Jacob and I aren't ready to have kids yet. Mea and Cilla are enough of a handful for now. I need a lot more practice before I can become a mother. I don't know how Mom does it.'
'I don't either.'
Cathy looked at Erin. There was always an underlying sadness about her. 'Do you have kids anywhere Erin?'
'Maybe, I don't know.'
The tone was dismissive and Cathy left it alone. Erin was always reluctant to talk about herself. She picked up the thread of Erin's earlier comment. 'I am happy today because Jacob and I are going to a fancy dress ball. I don't have a clue what to wear but the thought of it is making me nervous and excited.'
'You're a tall girl. If you get a few highlights in your hair and wear it Grecian style with a matching dress you'll be stunning. Accentuate the green of your eyes and gold in your hair.'
'What do you mean? Do you know about fashion Erin?'
'You're top heavy. Lost a bit of weight I suppose. If you get a wrap style dress that widens your hips but binds to the bust, you will look perfectly proportioned. Here let me show you.'
To Cathy's surprise, Erin grabbed a blank sheet of paper and with a few strokes, outlined a simple sheath type dress which would provide a dramatic flattering look to any shape. Erin handed the sheet of paper to Cathy. Her look discouraged any further questions.
'I'll take this with me when we go shopping. Thanks Erin.'
The older woman grunted and got up. Perplexed by the complicated enigmatic woman, Cathy followed her instincts and declined to push for any confidences. Erin deserved to have her privacy respected. Cathy said goodbye and left for her afternoon classes.
The weeks leading up to the Governor's ball were hectic. Cathy worked hard to complete her spring semester at school. Knowing that she would be completely done by the end of the summer spurred her on. She had plans to expand her work below by doing some additional community resource work above.
Jacob, who accepted the post with Oats, started looking at ways and means of making the job a real useful tool for the department. In his conversation with Eric, he was told a few simple rules which would make a productive working partnership.
Don't sit in the same office space. People use you to get to the boss.
Have your own communication tool, which only the two of you use.
Document every conversation and every meeting then secure your diary in a safe place.
Listen and learn to read between the lines.
Jacob thought the simple rules made sense. He spent some days unobtrusively watching Oats in his daily habits before taking any big steps toward change. The promotion would not take effect until after the ball.
He found an office space which currently housed some old files and papers. It would be close to Oats new office. He didn't want to be bothered by the comings and goings of daily traffic in and out of the director's office and he didn't want to be close enough to have Oats breathing down his neck.
Jacob steered clear of being centrally located in the main hall. His style of reading and typing astounded those who had an opportunity to observe him. He didn't want any more questions. When the work for the office was done, he could work on his own degree in Naturopathic Medicine. He wasn't sure what it would mean but the knowledge of how the body functions from a normal scientific perspective would help his own intuitive knowledge.
The space was really not designed to be an office. It had not been cleaned or painted for the Attorney General's visit last year. Jacob remembered the tall striking man who stopped at his desk to say a few words and ask about his mother. He was far too good looking to be anything other than a playboy, jet setting around the world. Jacob didn't know if there was a 'type' which fit his demeanour but the man seemed cultured, well spoken, and gracious. Jacob had no wish to peg the AG into any slot, but Patrick Ronan DelCassian was not a man to dismiss easily.
The walls and contents of the room Jacob chose were not going to be dismissed easily either. It would take some cleaning to get it into shape. The door thankfully had a frosted window. Jacob went down to Oats to see what help the budget office would be willing to give for a cleanup. To Jacob's surprise, he was told it would be taken care of during the weekend. He would return Monday to start fresh in his new office.
For one moment Jacob felt as if everything in his life was out of his control. His wife and mother seemed to have developed this secret bond. It had to do with clothes. Then he was informed that his mother would be joining them to attend the ball. Now the office he wished to make his own would be prepared by someone else.
'Thanks Oats. I think I will just head back to my corner and keep out of everyone's way.'
'I guess your wife's been in a spin with the ball coming up next week.'
'How did you know?'
'Been there….done it! You've got the 'deer in the headlight look'. Best to stay out of it. By the way, I hear your mother will be attending.'
'Yes, and I am not sure why. I wouldn't have expected her to enjoy something like that. My Dad is wisely staying home with the girls.'
Oats just chuckled and shooed Jacob out the door. 'You got a lot to learn about women Jacob.'
'Apparently I do.'
Armed with Erin's simple design scribbled on a paper, Cathy and her newly excited mother in law went shopping at an elegant Manhattan establishment. It had exclusivity written all over it.
'How did you know about this place Mom.' Cathy held open the door before a young sales person took over the job.
'I was a bit surprised it was still here. I used to shop here all the time.'
'Here?' Cathy took in the opulence of the foyer. No actual clothes were visible, just comfortable leather chairs and frosted glass cubicles. She tried not to look either skeptical or astonished.
A short thin man came forward with a barely perceptible bow.
'Madam Wells. Welcome. May I seat you and offer tea?' Whether it was real or feigned, the accent added a surreal feeling to the whole process.
Cathy continued to stare but managed to look as if this kind of shopping was a regular occurrence in her life. She knew that somewhere along the way she would falter but for now it was an adventure to move in a different circle.
It took some time before the actual business of finding a dress was initiated. Polite conversation, a cup of light Earl Grey tea and tasty miniature homemade scones were part of the prepurchase ritual.
'Both my Daughter and I would like evening gowns for the governor's ball. My records may still be here but this is the first time for Cathy.'
'Madam, I have checked already. Indeed we have found the history of your purchases but the file says deceased. An unfortunate error, since you are clearly here?'
Catherine stifled a laugh. The statement ended on a questioning note. 'An error indeed. I have been living elsewhere for a long time. I recently returned to live in New York and thought I would resume my shopping habits in this unique store.'
'Madam, we are grateful.'
Cathy also knew that laughter would not be appropriate. She struggled to hold in her own mirth. The short man was dramatic and quite serious but did not adopt the effete manner of men who look after women exclusively. He declared in a polite, professional tone that Catherine would be a delight to dress. At the appropriate time, Cathy presented her own drawing. She was asked to stand and walk.
'Where did Madam obtain this drawing, if I may ask?'
'A friend. She thought the look might suit me.'
'She has an excellent eye. I think we have something that will fit you very well.' As soon as he spoke, another younger man appeared. 'Henri, first bring out number 22 and 31 for Madam Wells. Then find 16, and 41 for Madam…?'
'Wells'
'Of course.'
As soon as the dresses appeared, Cathy got very serious. This was high fashion, truly a haute couture experience. This was how women with money were dressed to perfection. It was not her idea of the way to shop but the feeling of being pampered, of getting clothes that fit and looking like a fashion model all served to bolster Cathy's faltering confidence that she could indeed be the Goddess her husband would desire above all.
Three hours later, Cathy couldn't believe the money which was spent but knew as soon as she saw dress #41, in a warm sage colour almost exactly as Erin had deemed suitable, she would never feel the same about herself or her body. It was as if Erin's vision and design had come to life. She was fitted with shoes, matching gloves and offered ideas for the perfect hair do.
'A final fitting at the end of the week, if you please and then the dresses will be delivered to your home. By the way Madam Wells, I like the work of your designer. If she has any more ideas I would be happy to see them. Her style reminds me of someone I knew long ago.'
Cathy promised to pass on the message to Erin. She wondered what kind of reaction the compliment would generate in her but gave little thought to it. Both women were escorted from the building floating on a cloud. Catherine's dress was no less spectacular. The two women giggled like school girls. For Catherine, it was a return to the well-to-do roots of her past. She spent with reckless abandon, acknowledging even then, that in the morning light it would bring some inner discontent. The opportunity to give special meaning to Cathy's Cinderella story was worth the time and effort. She was, after all, her real Godmother. To help make a dream come true was little enough recognition for all the missed times in both their lives when a mother's much needed love and guidance were absent.
'Is it alright if I don't feel guilty?'
'I think we can both consider that finding the perfect dress is fulfilling expectations. We shouldn't feel guilty about accomplishing a goal.'
'Jacob may not be happy about the cost of the dress.'
'I'm not telling him and it's my treat to you. The less he knows before hand the less likely he is to be worried about it.'
'Ohhh….I can hardly wait!'
'Me too!'
Mother and daughter-in-law walked arm in arm along the high street. They would soon be picked up by Carl. It was necessary to shake off some of the excitement of the afternoon before going home. Neither woman wanted to spill the beans early and containing her excitement from her loving husband was getting harder every day.
