The next three weeks meant cramming all of the information of Kendra Young's life in this world. Adjusting to the Charmed One's bedroom filled with relics of her predecessor's life felt strange and awkward. From the posters of some musicians named Lil' Wayne, Alicia Keyes, and Beyonce to a film poster of Twilight, it all felt weird and new. She even checked Kendra's bookshelf as she kept writings of Maya Angelou, Audre Lorde, Malcolm X, Alice Walker, Octavia Butler, and Toni Morrison.
On another, history titles and textbooks on American History, World Civilizations, Ancient World, and Mythology graced the shelves as she flipped through the Mythology one and began seeing texts about ancient beasts that kept her interest. However, it was her discovering how advanced the internet online world had begun that really piqued her interest as she absorbed the changes on planet Earth on the laptop in front of her. She was in awe.
After perusing the pretty wardrobe in the closet, she picked out a colorful top and skirt and appreciated the new abundance of nice clothes that she now had access to. It sure beat the one shirt and pants that she owned and constantly washed as a Slayer. She cursed herself for allowing her one and only favorite shirt to get ruined during a fight but that is another story for another day.
After getting ready, she joined Maman and her sisters downstairs as she slipped her new phone, now a useful accessory thanks to her grandmother's family plan, and her wallet into her small, trendy purse.
"You look lovely, child," Maman complimented her. "Unfortunately, your hair is another story."
Kendra frowned and touched her basic ponytail. She really kept her hair long and simple by braiding it into a ponytail so it didn't cause any distraction in a demon fight.
"Don't worry," Darcy added with a smile. "We're getting the spa treatment at the salon. Maman's treat."
"You'll love it!" Sheila jumped in. "A fresh new start!"
Kendra smiled in response and followed her family out the door and into the car to the neighboring beauty parlor located in the east county of San Diego in a more urbanized location.
"This is different," she noted to herself, noticing the other people of color in the community that looked like her. With the exception of Jamaica, her Slayer missions sometimes took her to predominantly Caucasian areas to eradicate vampires and demons. Her Watcher, Mr. Zabuto, forbade her to mingle among regular society so her social skills were a bit off.
"What?" Sheila remarked, responding to her earlier comment. "That we go to a black salon instead of those bougie ones like in La Jolla. Girl, none of those stylists know how to do black hair!"
"Besides," Darcy added. "It's always important to support local black businesses. It keeps money in the community. I thought you knew that."
"Sorry," Kendra apologized. "It's this amnesia thing." She opted for this excuse. "I'm still trying to remember stuff."
Maman came to her defense. "It's okay, child." She secretly winked at Kendra. "You're still trying to learn how the world works. It's not always fair to us but we know when to pick our battles." Her tone quickly changed. "Now all this talk is depressing. It's a spa day!"
All sisters agreed and followed their grandmother inside the parlor as they got facials, massages, mani-pedis, and their hair done. For once, Kendra did not have to worry about fighting monsters and just enjoyed being pampered as she learned about how to do her make-up and proper hair care from the stylists. Opting for a wavy style to be done to her hair, she was amazed at her results.
"What do you think?" The stylist questioned her as she looked at herself in the mirror.
Running her fingers through her dark mane and new look, Kendra smiled. "Beautiful!"
"I agree," giggled Sheila, who opted for a woven auburn bob and looked sophisticated.
"Ditto," added Darcy who changed her braids to a sleek, straightened look. "You're going to knock em' dead back at school!"
"School?" Kendra raised brows.
"You know," Darcy answered. "University? You're a History Specialist. Your advisor for the department has been leaving me voicemails to see if you're okay from the accident and if you're returning since they're deferring your position after the situation."
"Oh," the Slayer mumbled. She forgot about Kendra's Western Civilizations major at California University. "I guess with the accident. I haven't thought about my other responsibilities."
Shelia frowned at her middle sister. "Darcy, it's too soon. The university has to understand that Kendra has only been out of the hospital for three weeks. They can't expect her to start work right away." She turned to her youngest sibling. "Kendra, you don't have to go in right away. You can defer for a semester until you're ready…"
"It's all right, Sheila." The Slayer stopped her. "I want to get back to some normalcy." She nodded to Darcy. "See if the department advisor can set up an appointment tomorrow to discuss the position so we can work something out."
Darcy agreed. "I'll even drop you off seeing how you're still nervous about driving. I mean after the accident I can't imagine that you'd want to get back on the road."
Kendra remained quiet. She forgot that she had a driver's license but never learned how to drive. She was still sixteen year old Slayer Kendra from another world, not twenty four year old adult Kendra who happened to be a powerful witch and drove an adult car. She shook her head Tand feigned a smile. "That would be lovely, Darcy."
"Then it's settled," said Darcy. "I'll make the arrangements."
Overhearing the conversation, Maman clapped her hands. "It's wonderful to see you back on your feet, Kendra child. Now onto the important detail. Shopping!"
Sheila and Darcy squealed as they dragged Kendra from the salon to the car and off to the mall. Kendra had to admit the female bonding experience felt amazing. She never grew up with sisters, much less siblings or a family, so spending quality time gave her a selfish, exhilarating feeling. The moment they returned home, she had a new wardrobe of shoes, dresses, skirts, pants, blouses, jeans, and make-up all at the expense of Maman Sineya. The Young grandmother apparently was loaded.
After putting away all her new clothes, Kendra remained in her room and began opening up some of her predecessor's history textbooks and scoured for information to prepare for her meeting for the university advisor's meeting tomorrow. She did not pay attention to the time when she heard a soft knock at her bedroom door.
"Come in."
Maman crept in and slowly closed the door behind her. "The Cajun dinner I'm making is almost ready. I've got fried catfish, red beans and rice, and jambalaya."
Kendra looked up and smiled at her. "That sounds wonderful. Thank you again for the new clothes. I appreciate it."
"It wasn't nothing, child," Maman smiled back. "How are you adjusting to…you now being my granddaughter?"
The Slayer sighed. "It's strange. I know I'm playing this part but I feel that I'm stealing her life. It's not fair for me to do so."
Maman cupped her chin with both hands. "You're not stealing anything. The Powers that Be chose you for a reason. My Kendra chose you to take her life and to ensure the Charmed Ones are never separated. You have fought to protect others as a Slayer. Now use that same courage to protect the greater good by living her life and being her."
Kendra dropped her eyes. "How do I know I can do this? How do I know I am worthy?"
"Shhh," Maman pressed a finger to her lips. "You are worthy." She stood up straight. "Enough of this sad talk, come and wash up for dinner."
The Slayer shot her a smile, left her books where they were, and joined her family for a meal.
Darcy did as she promised. She drove Kendra to California University and dropped her off on campus. After giving her sister a peck on the cheek and wishing her good luck, the Slayer inhaled deeply and went in search of the campus map for the history offices.
Locating the building on the western campus, she went inside, passing a few students who were busy discussing academics or their social calendar for the year. As she neared the front door of her history advisor, Dr. Eden Blakely, she was shocked to see a familiar handsome face exiting her office.
The hunky Nurse Zen Minasi stopped and smiled at her from across the hallway.
"Wow!" He remarked. "I thought I'd never see you again! Are you okay?"
For once, Kendra was almost speechless. She took in his chiseled features, muscular frame, and gorgeous dark hair and felt her knees nearly buckling. Quickly, she gained her composure.
"Um, uh Nurse Zen," she stuttered. "What are you doing here?"
"I'm taking classes for my history specialization for the Master's program," he explained. "I'm trying to get out of nursing and get into academia. This whole nursing thing is to pay the bills. I'm starting to get burned out and want to change careers. I'm applying as a student teacher for my field."
"Oh," Kendra said quietly. "That's great to hear." An awkward silence fell between the two before she suddenly brought up another topic. "I'm sorry I left you unconscious at the hospital. Things were a bit hectic."
Zen laughed. "That's cool. I hit my head pretty hard so I don't remember much. Who would've thought that an escaped wild animal from the zoo would break into the hospital and attack everyone? I'm glad you got out safely. Another reason to quit nursing. Too much crazy stuff."
"Yeah," she nervously scratched her head and giggled. "It was pretty crazy. I guess it was my flight or fight mode kicking in." She released another weird giggle and changed the subject again. "So you had a meeting with Advisor Blakely?"
Zen nodded. "Yeah, she is recommending me to the student teaching program for the social sciences division. You?"
"I'm supposed to discuss some student teaching positions while I work on my graduate studies," she replied. "They suggested deferment after my accident but I want to get back on the horse as soon as possible."
"Good for you!" The hunky nurse encouraged her. "I commend you for doing that!" He stopped for a minute. "Look, I know this isn't professional but I was wondering if you would like to go have dinner or watch a movie sometime."
Kendra could feel herself blushing. A date? Mr. Zabuto would never…
"Sure," she found herself answering. Are you crazy? This isn't like you! Then again, this was not Slayer Kendra from another world accepting the date request. The realization of her mistake finally took over. "Hold on, if I get this teaching position, wouldn't it be unethical for two teachers to date?"
"Nothing in the handbook for dating colleagues," Zen noted. "Besides, I'm in a different social sciences division and aren't working in the same program. What do you say?"
His argument did have a point. If Zen was her colleague and single, there was no conflict of interest. Biting her lip, she pulled out her phone and began exchanging numbers.
"Great," the nurse smiled. "How about this Saturday? You free? I know this great jazz place. You like jazz?"
"I don't know," Kendra shrugged her shoulders. In all actuality, Kendra the Slayer never listened to music. She heard bits of pieces of jazz back in Jamaica but her Watcher never wanted her to succumb to any distractions. Again, she tried to cover up her statement. "What I mean is, I'm too busy with my education that I didn't get out much but I'd love to listen to some."
"Saturday night it is then," Zen grinned. "Pick you up at eight?"
"Sure," smiled a shy Kendra. "Eight o'clock would be fine."
"Great!" Zen cheered. "I'll see you then!"
"You too," Kendra replied.
They exchanged numbers. She watched as the hunky nurse walked down the hallway and took note of his very impressive backside before noticing her profane gazing. Stop that, Kendra! You're the Slayer! Stop thinking about boys! She shook her head and entered Advisor Blakely's office.
"Ah, Kendra Young!" A stunning woman in a pretty blouse and wool skirt extended her hand to greet her. "I'm Dr. Eden Blakely, the advisor for the history department of California University."
Dr. Blakely appeared to be in her late thirties, exhibited gorgeous green eyes, and had a long mane of brown hair that she pulled into a professional bun. Kendra accepted her hand and shook it.
"Thank you for meeting with me on such short notice," the Slayer responded. "With everything that's happened the last few weeks, it's been pretty hectic."
"No explanation needed, Miss Young," smiled the advisor. "It should be me that should be apologizing. With your recent accident, I wanted to make sure you needed time before returning to the school. Your educational grant is still active and you can defer for a semester if you need more time to recover."
Kendra shook her head. "That's all right, Dr. Blakely. I know I'm struggling with some memory issues but I can assure you I'm able to take on this position." Why wouldn't I? I already know some history. I should be able to fake being a student teacher in college.
Dr. Blakely grinned. "That's wonderful to hear. I admire your confidence. Don't worry, we're not going to bombard with anything too difficult. It's your basic Mythology 101 undergrad, general ed course covering Greek-Roman, Egyptian and Norse mythology. Two classes, one morning, one evening, twice a week. The history department is using the same textbooks and same standardized exams so your syllabus should be really simple when classes start next month."
Mythology? I'm already versed in various mythologies in my Slayer studies. Mr. Zabuto made sure of that. This should be a breeze!
"I'm happy to hear that," Kendra smiled. "I'm sure I am perfectly capable of handling the undergrad studies."
Her advisor laughed. "I know you are. Also…" She paused and pulled a thick folder of papers from her desk. "You dropped off some of your research documents to me last month. I have to say I'm impressed with the strides you're making on your graduate work on the goddess Irkalla and those ties to Sumerian and Mesopotamian history. You have something there. I can't wait to read it when you're finished so we can present it to the Board of Historians next year."
"Graduate…work?" The Slayer stammered.
"It appears to be coming along," Dr. Blakely. "That is why I know you'll do amazing with the teaching position next month. You're the most qualified."
"Um," Kendra hesitated. "Thank you?"
Dr. Blakely smiled. "You're welcome. Now that you're accepted the position. First thing's first. This is a basic campus student teaching position so pay is practically minimum. However, you are covered by health insurance with the college. This also entitles you to employee discounts at campus stores and even the college facilities. There are other benefits as well as outlined by the employee handbook. Please read the packet that was given to you. Other than that, welcome aboard!"
Kendra left campus, both confident and confused, but she felt she played her part well. Using the Uber app that she learned she had on her new phone, she used it to get a ride home which was ten minutes away from the Young residence. The moment she got inside the house, her two sisters ambushed her.
"How did it go?" Sheila smiled at her. "Did you get the job?"
The Slayer managed to grin back. "I got the job!"
"Awesome!" Darcy clapped her hands excitedly. "I knew that bit of amnesia wouldn't be your crutch! You got it on your own merits!"
"And…" Kendra paused. Should I tell them about Zen? Why am I compelled to tell them about Zen? I have to tell them about Zen? What is wrong with me? She smiled wickedly. "I got a dinner date this Saturday with that hot nurse, Zen!" She blurted out her confession. Did I just refer to Zen as hot? Good Lord!
The elder Young sisters squealed with joy. Embarrassed but strangely proud of her admittance, the Slayer enjoyed revealing her secret. There's a weird feeling of support and camaraderie emitting from her siblings. It felt wonderful.
"Aww, our little sister finally got herself a man!" Sheila teased.
Darcy jumped in on the ribbing as well. "I guess she's not an old maid after all!"
"Hey!" Kendra defended. "I'm standing right here!"
"Just kidding, lil' sis," Sheila laughed. She leaned to hug her and give her a peck on the forehead. "We're just happy you're getting back into the dating pool! You've been so busy with academics that you rarely got out and had a social life."
Kendra frowned at this truth. "Was I ever really this introverted?"
"A little bit," Darcy added. "You were just more studious than us with a nose in a book. Meanwhile, you had a bunch of guys wanting to ask you out! Now you set your sights on one and it turns out to be that hottie nurse, Zen!" Then it suddenly hit her. "Wait, does he remember that demon attacking him back at the hospital?"
Kendra shook her head. "No. He bumped his head and thinks he saw a wild animal running loose in the hospital. I think we're safe for now."
Sheila breathed a sigh of relief. "Good. The last thing we need are mortals knowing demons and monsters exist." She returned her attention to Kendra. "When did you see him?"
"On campus," the Slayer explained. "He's working on his Masters so he can't get out of nursing. It turns out, we're both in the history field. We met at the advisor's office."
"And now you can see more of him at school!" Darcy pointed out. "And maybe you'll get a chance to see him naked!"
"Darcy!" Kendra gasped in embarrassment.
Her sisters broke out in laughter as their stunned little sibling blushed and shook her head. A flash of swirling lights interrupted the joviality as Darryl suddenly appeared in front of them.
Knowing her husband well, Sheila questioned him. "Honey, what's wrong?"
"The Elders and the other White Lighters have been hearing rumors from the Underworld," he informed them. "I think we might have a name of the one who sent those demons to attack Kendra at the hospital."
Darcy's mouth dropped. "Who?"
Darryl released a breath.
"Asmodeus!"