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- Herausgeber: Next Chapter
- Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
- Sprache: Englisch
- Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2023
Books 6-10 in Betty McLain's 'Love's Magic' series of sweet and wholesome romance, now available in one volume!
Love's Prophecy: June and Maddie saw the faces of their loved ones reflected in the magic mirrors, but even that couldn't prepare them for the wild ride predicted by Love's Prophecy. Maddie knew the name of the man in her reflection, but caution led her to wait before pursuing their love. June caught a glimpse of her true love, but his identity was a mystery to her. Can the girls claim their true loves before time runs out?
Love's Sight: Love does not need eyes to see. Love’s Sight comes from the heart. Laura didn’t think much about the magic mirror at Danny’s Bar and Grill. What good was a mirror that showed your true love to a girl who could not see? Yet as she sat before it, she had the strangest feeling she was being watched. Joseph was on his way to class when he glanced in a hall mirror and saw a woman sitting in a restaurant. Thinking she must be a ghost, he shook off the strange event and continued to class. But the girl in the mirror would not leave his mind. Will the Magic Mirror help Laura find true love - or will she close her heart and deny its magic, because she can not see?
Love's Answer: Lily Hemp wasn’t looking for love. After losing her family in an accident, surviving was enough. She grew her flowers and kept to herself, until the day a magic mirror showed her the face of a man she did not know. Les was no stranger to the magic mirror. He knew people who were matched through its power, and knew he would one day see his true love’s face staring back at him in the reflection. He never expected his true love to be unhappy to find him. Can Les win her heart, broken by grief? And with even the most innocent left lost and alone, can Lily learn to open her heart and accept the new opportunity being offered to her?
Love's Enemy: Returning from exile, Katie is looking to start a new life in her old hometown. Her family abandoned her once, allowing her grandfather’s feud to rule their lives. It cost her a childhood friend. Now, it could cost her even more. Carlos saw the reflection of his true love through the power of the famous magic mirror. Everything seemed okay - until she learned his name. Could his destined wife be the missing McCray daughter who left town all those years before?
Love's Retaliation: The magic mirrors were becoming a legend. While some were skeptical about their powers, those who experienced the magic first hand knew it was real. Will thought he had a pretty good life. Pursuing a college degree, he had a good roommate, a loving family, and a great girlfriend, until the day she learned about the Denton magic mirror at the art gallery. What if the stories were true? Pushed by fear into a terrible choice, Will must learn if predictions from the mirror can be wrong. Is the magic real, or is it all a hoax? And if the mirror is magical, how will it respond to his interference. Can Will make things right, or will love's retaliation be permanent?
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LOVE'S MAGIC COLLECTION
BOOKS 6-10
BETTY MCLAIN
CONTENTS
Love’s Prophecy
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
Love’s Sight
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
Love’s Answer
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
Love’s Enemy
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
Love’s Retaliation
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
Next in the Series
About the Author
Copyright (C) 2023 Betty McLain
Layout design and Copyright (C) 2023 by Next Chapter
Published 2023 by Next Chapter
Cover art by CoverMint
This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the author's permission.
LOVE’S PROPHECY
LOVE’S MAGIC BOOK 6
This book is dedicated to all who search for a chance of love.
To those who keep the faith and never give up on their dreams of love.
CHAPTER1
Maddie and her roommate June strolled through the streets, enjoying the fair, eating cotton candy and trying their luck at a couple of games. June won a bear at ring toss. Maddie won some oversized glasses at the sharpshooting booth. The fair was set up close to their university. They were halfway through their senior years and were glad for a chance to wander around and get their minds off testing for a while.
They spotted a fortune telling booth ahead, so the girls headed that way. June was reluctant, but Maddie was wondering if the fortune teller could give her some insight into her situation with Liam. She had not seen him in six months. He went skiing with friends at Christmas instead of coming home. It had been four years since she had seen Liam in the magic mirror. They both had been away at different universities. They did not get many chances to see each other.
When he was on break, he went home to Morristown. When she was on break, she was expected to go home to Rolling Fork. Sometimes, she visited with Dora and Rafe, her sister and Liam’s brother, but Liam was not always there when she visited. She made up her mind to look in the mirror again next time she was home. She had not told any of her friends at college about seeing Liam in the mirror because she did not think they would believe her.
They reached the fortune teller’s booth and went inside. The fortune teller was made up like a gypsy. She watched them as they approached her table.
“Take a chance on the future,” she said. “It is always good to know what to expect.”
“You go first,” Maddie motioned for June to take a seat.
June sat down, hesitantly, and laid her money on the table. The money quickly disappeared and the fortune teller reached for her hand.
“You have a nice long life line.” she said.
June glanced at Maddie and grinned.
The fortune teller studied her hand for a few minutes. June watched her anxiously, because the fortune teller was quiet for so long. The fortune teller looked up at June. “You have already had a glimpse of your true love. Do not delay to establish a relationship. You will have to face treachery from your look-alike. She will try to take what is yours. She always wants what is yours. You will win in the end, but you will face unexpected happenings from unexpected directions. Hold strong to your love. True love is worth fighting for. Do not give up on love.”
The fortune teller sat back quietly. June rose from the chair and let Maddie have her turn.
Maddie sat down. She laid her money on the table and watched it disappear. She put her hand on the table for the fortune teller to study.
The fortune teller studied her hand and looked at Maddie.
“Your true love is waiting for a sign from you. He wants to be sure you are ready to make a life with him. Do not wait too long. Let him know you are his. If you do not make your move soon, someone else will try to make him hers.”
The girls thanked the fortune teller and left. They did not discuss what she told them until they moved away from her booth.
The girls wandered over to some picnic tables and sat down. June looked at Maddie.
“I don’t talk about my twin sister very often. She went to cosmetology school, while I dropped out of the university to take care of Mom. She would not help. She said she was not putting her life on hold. My sister is rather wild. She is the kind of person who always has a male in tow. Anytime she thinks I am interested in anyone, she does her best to turn his attention away from me and toward her.
I don’t know why she is like that. It is almost like she hates me. She has always resented me for being born first. I was born at 11:58 pm on June 30th. She was born at 12:04 am on July 1st.
I was named June and she was named July.
When I was in the museum in Denton, I looked in the mirror hanging there. I saw a man in the mirror. I don’t know his name or anything about him, but I did not say anything about him to anybody, because I did not want July to hear about him.”
June looked at Maddie to see if she believed her.
Maddie smiled at June. “I believe you,” she said. “I saw my true love in the mirror at the gallery in Rolling Fork. It was four years ago. He was nineteen, and I was fifteen. My sister convinced me not to say anything until we were both older. I was lucky. My sister married Liam’s older brother. They live in Morristown. I get to see him sometimes.” Maddie looked troubled.
“According to the fortune teller’s prophesy, I have to let him know we are meant to be together or someone else is going to try to get him interested in her,”
“Doesn’t he know about you seeing him in the mirror?” asked June.
“No, I didn’t tell him. We were both so young, I did not want to put pressure on him when we could not be together,” explained Maddie.
“What does your guy look like?” asked Maddie.
“He has dark hair and he looks rugged, but handsome. I only saw him once, but he was dressed in a flannel shirt and black boots.”
Maddie looked at her, startled at her description. Maddie took her wallet out of her purse and flipped to some pictures they took the last time she visited Dora. She found a family group of Rafe, Jason, and Liam. Maddie turned the pictures so June could see them.
June looked at the photos and gasped. She turned white and kept gazing at the photo.
Maddie pointed at Rafe. “This is my sister Dora’s husband, Rafe. The one on the other end is Liam and the one in the middle is their brother, Jason.”
“Jason,” whispered June. “He is the man I saw in the mirror. You know him. Tell me about him.”
“Well, his last name is Haggerty. They live in Morristown. They have a logging business. Rafe has been in charge since the death of their father and brother. Jason is in charge of the logging crew. Liam is in his last year at his university. They are all nice guys. Jason comes off as gruff sometimes, but he is a softy when it comes to family,” Maddie paused for June to absorb what she told her.
Maddie took out her phone and called Dora.
“Hello, Maddie,” said Dora. “Are you about ready for a break?”
“Yes, I am. I’m not interrupting class, am I?” asked Maddie.
Dora was teaching third grade in Morristown. She had been a certified teacher for three and a half years, and she loved teaching.
“No, my students are in gym class this period. What are you doing?”
“My roommate, June and I are visiting a street fair. We needed a break. Have you heard from Liam lately?” asked Maddie.
“No, but as far as I know, he will be home on break in a couple of weeks. Why?” asked Dora.
“I think it is time for Liam and me to get serious, before he becomes interested in someone else,” Maddie said, firmly. “Would it be alright if June and I come for a visit as soon as we finish our tests?”
“You and your roommate are welcome anytime. We would love to see you,” Dora assured her.
“Is Jason in town?” asked Maddie.
“He away delivering a load of logs, but he should be back by the time you get here. Why?” asked Dora.
“No reason. I was just wondering,” said Maddie. “We will see you in a couple of weeks. I will let you know when to expect us. Give my love to Rafe and the kids.”
“I will. Take care,” said Dora.
Maddie hung up the phone and smiled at June.
“Are you ready to meet your true love?” she asked.
June grinned back. “Yes, I am,” she said.
Still grinning, Maddie and June headed to martial arts class. They bowed to Professor Yang and suited up. Maddie was so good at demonstrations the professor often asked her help with the other students. Maddie got June interested in martial arts. Now, she loved the class almost as much as Maddie.
Maddie and June paired up and started their practice. They soon had an audience as more and more students stopped and watched them. Professor Yang stood back and watched. He did not try to get the other students to go back to practicing. He knew they would learn a lot just watching these gifted young ladies.
When Maddie and June finished their routine and bowed to each other, the other students clapped for them. Professor Yang encouraged the other students to continue their own class and went to talk to Maddie and June.
“Miss Hawthorn, Miss Mavorn, you are doing this class an honor by being here,” he said, bowing slightly.
“The honor is all ours. Thank you for allowing us to be students here,” said Maddie.
“We love our classes here,” agreed June.
“Do you have plans for after graduation?” asked Professor Yang.
“Yes,” said Maddie. ‘I am going to see about opening a martial arts school in Morristown.” She was also taking classes in business administration so she could manage the business end of the school.
“I see,” said the professor thoughtfully. “Why, Morristown? I thought you were from Rolling Fork.”
“Yes, I am, but my sister, Dora and brother, Blake have made their homes in Morristown.” With Dora living and teaching there, and Blake running his law firm and living in Hawthorn house in Morristown, she hoped her parents would not try to discourage her about her plans. Maddie grinned at June. “Also, my true love lives in Morristown.”
“Ah,” said Professor Yang. “True love is not to be taken lightly. It comes to so few. It is to be treasured. When you get your school started, I would be honored to visit and, maybe, do a demonstration there.”
Maddie gave him a big smile.
“That would be great. Anytime you want to come we will be honored to have you,” she said excitedly.
“Good luck with your endeavors,” he said, bowing slightly, as he turned to go.
“Thank you,” said Maddie, returning the bow.
She turned to June excitedly.
“I think we just got our first endorsement,” she said. June smilingly agreed.
The girls left to return to their dorm room to study. After a bit of studying, Maddie noticed June looking troubled about something. She waited a while to see if June would say what was wrong, but two subjects later, she still had not said a word, so Maddie decided to do a little discreet questioning.
“Is something bothering you?” asked Maddie.
“I was just thinking about the martial arts school in Morristown,” said June.
“You do want to join me there, don’t you?” asked Maddie.
“Oh, yes, I would love to join you there. It is just going to cost a lot to build and establish a school. I want to pull my weight, but I don’t have a lot of money,” said June.
“Oh, is that all? I am not worried about funding. I have a large trust fund. My grandfather on my dad’s side of the family set up trust funds for my sisters, my brother and myself when we were born. We received more when he died. I just want you with me. I don’t have many close friends. We may even be sisters someday. It will be great to have someone with me I can trust and enjoy having around,” Maddie paused and looked at June enquiringly.
June gave her a big smile. “It looks like we are going to open a Martial arts school,” she said.
Maddie decided to touch base with Liam. She had his number in her phone, but she had never used it. She dialed the number and waited. Just when she thought she wasn’t going to get answer, the phone was answered by a female voice.
“Hello,” said the female voice.
“Is Liam there?” asked Maddie.
“No, he stepped out for a few minutes. Can I take a message?”
“Just tell him Maddie called,” said Maddie.
“Ok,” said the voice as she hung up the phone.
* * *
The female turned as Liam came in the door. He noticed her holding the phone.
“Did I get a call?” he asked.
“Yes, someone called Maddie. “She just asked me to tell you she called.”
Liam looked surprised. He was pleased to have Maddie reaching out to him. He was beginning to think she never would.
“Who is Maddie?” asked the girl.
Liam looked at her as if he had forgotten she was there.
“Maddie is my sister-in-law’s sister,” he replied.
“Oh, she is family,” she said.
“Yes,” said Liam happily. “Maddie is my family. Listen, I have to study for the tests I have early tomorrow, so we need to say good night. I’ll talk to you later, Leslie.”
“Alright,” said Leslie, reluctantly leaving. “I will see you tomorrow. Good luck on your tests.”
As soon as she was gone, Liam picked up his phone and called Maddie.
“Hello,” said Maddie.
“Hi, Maddie, I received a message that you called,” said Liam.
“Yes, I did. I wanted to see if you are going to go home when testing ends,” said Maddie.
“Yes, I am. I promised Jason I would help out this summer,” said Liam.
“Oh,” said Maddie. “I was hoping you would help me look around for a good location for my martial arts school.”
“You are opening it in Morristown?” asked Liam.
“Yes, my roommate, June, and I are going to be partners. I already called Dora and she is expecting us as soon as we finish our tests,” said Maddie.
“I will make time. I would love to help you scout locations,” said Liam, with a big smile. “How have you been?” he asked.
“I am doing good. How about you? You ready for school to be over?” asked Maddie.
“Yes, I am ready to get on with life,” said Liam.
“Me, too,” said Maddie.
“I’ll see you, soon,” said Liam.
“Yes, soon,” whispered Maddie as they each disconnected.
Liam couldn’t stop smiling. Maddie had called him. He had to take things slowly. He did not want to spook her. He had been waiting four years for Maddie to be ready for a relationship with him. He did a jig around the room. The time had come. How was he supposed to study when he was so excited? Soon, they would be together, soon.
CHAPTER2
Jason and his crew unloaded several loads of logs at the Denton saw mill. It was a big order, for a client getting ready to build a new home. They needed to be cut into lumber and cured before they could be used, but the saw mill would take care of that.
Jason looked around and called out to his crew to wrap everything up for the day. They still had a good few logs to unload the next day before they could return to Morristown, so everyone was heading to the motel for the night … after a few drinks at one of the local hangouts.
Jason decided to go along for a drink. He wanted to keep an eye on his crew. He did not want them getting into any trouble. He was sitting quietly, thinking, when some of the guys whistled at some girls entering the room. Jason glanced up and froze. One of the girls looked like the girl he had seen in the mirror.
He smiled, glad his turn had come. He was ready to settle down and quit playing the field. He had been hoping for a sign from the mirror since Dora and Rafe found each other. When he finally saw her, he couldn’t believe it, but the reflection was gone too fast to try and talk to her. Still her image stayed with him, and now, she was here!
July saw Jason as soon as she entered. She recognized him from the mirror, the day June saw his reflection at the museum. June had not known she was there, watching her from a nearby display. July only wanted to talk to her, but the mirror caught her attention. She waited for June to leave and went to look at it closer. All she saw was her own face. She read the display description and knew, whoever June saw was meant to be her true love.
July boldly made her way over to him.
“Hi,” she said. “My name is July.”
“Hi, I’m Jason. Why would anyone name their child July?” asked Jason.
“I was born in July,” said July with a shrug.
Jason shook his head. July had her hand on his arm. He didn’t feel anything. When Rafe met Dora they couldn’t stand not touching. He shook his head. If this was true love, he wanted no part of it. This girl did not feel like his.
July sat down at Jason’s table, without an invitation, and started trying to sweet talk him. Jason did not try to get her to leave. He watched her and listened.
The waitress came over to see what July wanted to drink.
“It took you long enough,” said July rudely.
She ordered a drink and started trying to sweet talk Jason again. Jason shifted in his chair. This was not the woman of his dreams.
Jason noticed some of his men getting ready to leave, so he threw some money on the table for the drinks and a tip and got up. “It was nice meeting you, July, but my crew is ready to go. I am driving so I have to leave,” Jason hurriedly headed for the door. He glanced back when he was at the door and saw July stuff the money in her bra. The waitress was passing by him. He caught her arm and gave her some more money for the drinks and a tip. He left quickly before July could spot him and come after him. Some of his men were stay ing behind. Hopefully they would steer clear of July.
The next morning, Jason’s crew unloaded the last of the logs at the saw mill. The two men, who had stayed behind when the rest of the crew left, were sporting hangovers. Jason looked at them and shook his head.
“You guys should have left with the rest of us,” he told them.
“Yeah,” one of them agreed. “It’s not as if it did us any good to stay. The chick only wanted to talk about you.”
“What did she want to know?” asked Jason.
“She wanted to know where you lived and if you had a girlfriend,” he replied.
“What did you tell her?” asked Jason.
“I told her we all lived in Morristown and you had a different girl every time I saw you,” said the crew member, grinning.
Jason laughed with the rest of the crew. He hoped he had heard the last of Miss July. She was bad news.
They arrived back in Morristown by dinner time. They left the big rigs on the job site and everyone left in their own cars and trucks. Jason headed over to Rafe and Dora’s.
Rafe had a large house built for his family, on a five-acre plot, close to the family home. He said he wanted to have plenty of room for his growing family. He and Dora were raising his brother’s two children. Frank and his wife Sara died in a car crash years before. Dede was now eight years old and Lars just turned ten. Both children adored Rafe and Dora and had been calling them Mom and Dad for almost three years.
Rafe and Dora announced a couple of weeks ago they were expecting. They were both very excited, as were Dede and Lars.
When Jason arrived at Rafe’s, he found Rafe sitting on the front porch. He was in the swing, drinking a glass of iced tea. “How did the delivery go?” Rafe asked.
“It went fine,” said Jason. Jason looked over at Rafe. He wanted to ask him about the mirror, but he didn’t know where to start.
Rafe looked at Jason. He could tell something was bothering him. “What’s wrong?” he asked.
“When you saw Dora in the mirror how did you feel?” asked Jason.
“I felt my heart stutter. I felt like I had been running hard and couldn’t catch my breath,” Rafe said thoughtfully. “Did you see someone in a mirror?” he asked.
“Yeah, just a brief glimpse, then I ran into the person in Denton. She came over to talk to me. I didn’t feel anything for her. She just felt wrong. I don’t know how to explain it. Her name was July, and I hope I never run into her again,” Jason ended on a firm note.
Rafe looked at him. He gave him a minute to collect himself.
“It is possible the woman in the mirror is not the woman in Denton. They say everyone has a look alike. Maybe your true love is still out there,” he looked at Jason and waited for a response.
“It is very discouraging. I really had my hopes up. When I met July, my hopes plummeted,” Jason sighed.
“Don’t give up. True love is worth the wait. I treasure every moment with Dora and I know she feels the same.”
“Alright, I’ll think about it. I had better get home. Mom is not going to be happy if supper gets cold. I’ll see you later,” he said with a wave as he left.
After he was gone, Dora joined Rafe in the porch swing. She snuggled close to him.
“You heard, Jason?” said Rafe.
“Yes, I started to come out, but I heard what he was talking about and decided he might feel better if I didn’t.” she said.
“What do you think about this woman he met?” he asked.
“I had a call from Maddie today. She wanted to see if it would be alright for her and her roommate to come here when they finish their tests. I told her to come anytime. She and her roommate were always welcome,” said Dora.
Rafe looked at her curiously. He wondered at the change of subject.
“Maddie should know she is always welcome,” he said. “What does this have to do with Jason?” asked Rafe.
“Well, Maddie asked if Jason was here. I told her he was away, but would be back soon.” Dora looked at Rafe. “Maddie’s roommate’s name is June. Don’t you think it is quite a coincidence for Jason to meet a July and Maddie to bring home a June?”
Rafe looked startled. “Twins!” he exclaimed.
“That would be my guess,” grinned Dora. “I think it was probably June who Jason saw in the mirror. July is trying to get a step up on her sister. I am only guessing. We should not say anything to Jason until we know for sure.”
“I hope you are right,” said Rafe giving her a hug.
“Me, too,” said Dora.
It was hard the next day for Rafe to keep quiet about Dora’s theory. Jason looked so depressed. He started to tell him, but Jason was called out to handle a problem, and when he returned, he looked much better. He seemed to have put it behind him and was facing the future. Rafe decided to wait, just in case they were wrong. He did not want to get Jason’s hopes up only to have them dashed again.
* * *
Liam was the first to arrive home. As soon as he finished his last test he headed for home. He did not even wait for his grades to be posted. He knew he could get them off the computer later. He was too excited to wait.
He wandered around the house the first day back. He was too excited to sit and wait, but he did not want to miss Maddie if she arrived early.
His mom watched him wander around for a while. She was curious about what had him so stirred up. “Are you going to help Jason and Rafe on the job?” she asked.
“Yes, but first, I am going to help Maddie scout around for a place to open her martial arts school,” he replied.
“Maddie called you?” asked Madeline.
He turned and grinned at his mom. “Yes, she finally called me,” he said.
Madeline was thoughtful for a minute. “You know Maddie saw you in the mirror!” she exclaimed. “Did Maddie tell you?”
“No, I overheard you and Dora talking about it when they first came here,” Liam explained.
“You did not say anything all this time,” she said.
“I did not want to push Maddie before she was ready,” Liam smiled at his mom. “She called me.”
Madeline came over and gave Liam a hug. “I am so proud of you. You are a son to be proud of. There are not many men who would stand back for four years and give their girl the space to grow in. You are a fine young man.”
Liam colored and bashfully returned his mom’s hug.
“I am only following the guidance of a wonderful mother. There could not be a better guide anywhere. I love you Mom,” Liam gave her another hug and then drew back. “You won’t tell anyone about me knowing, will you? I want Maddie to tell me in her own time.”
“I won’t say a word,” promised Madeline. “Now sit and I will get you a glass of lemonade.”
“Yes, Ma’am,” Liam sat at the table and drank his glass of lemonade and he and his mom talked about his classes and grades. There was no more discussion about Maddie.
CHAPTER3
Maddie and June made a stop in Rolling Fork to drop off her winter clothes and pick up her summer clothes. Maddie wanted to talk to her parents about her plans to start a school in Morristown. She also wanted to go by the gallery and take another look in the magic mirror.
Maddie let herself into the house with her key. “Hello, anyone here?” she called.
“Maddie.” said Lucy, coming out of the living room and giving her a hug. She then turned to June and hugged her, too.
“Welcome, June. I’ve heard a lot of good things about you from Maddie,” she said.
“Thank you for having me, Mrs. Hawthorn,” said June. “I’ve loved having Maddie for a roommate.”
“Mom, we are only going to be here for a day or two. I called Dora and invited myself to visit with her,” said Maddie. “I want to show June around town before everything closes. So, is it okay for us to dump our suitcases in my room and take off? We will be back in an hour or two.”
“Alright, dear, I’ll get some food cooking. Your father should be home by the time you get back. You two enjoy yourselves.” She waved goodbye and turned toward the kitchen. She would enjoy cooking for her youngest child. It had been awhile. All of her children had grown up, and she missed them, but she was glad they were all doing so well. After all, she had Rena’s children close by to spoil. She hurried into the kitchen to see what she could prepare.
Maddie found a good parking spot downtown and parked. She and June got out and walked. Maddie pointed out her favorite stores as they went along. They stopped at the ice cream parlor and purchased an ice cream cone. They ate it as they continued walking.
“The gallery is just ahead,” said Maddie, pointing..
They both threw what was left of their cones in a nearby trash can and headed for the gallery. The bell rang as they went inside. Angelica came forward to greet them. Maddie looked at her, surprised.
“Hi, Angelica, I did not know you were expecting,” she said.
Angelica smiled. “Hello, Maddie, yes as you can see, I have two more months. I cannot wait to meet my daughter.”
“I bet Dr. Steel is excited,” she said.
“Yes, he is. So is Moon Walking,” she laughed.
“Angelica, this is my roommate and friend, June Mavorn,” said Maddie.
“Hello, June, welcome to the gallery,” said Angelica.
“Thank you,” responded June with a smile.
“What can I help you ladies with today?” asked Angelica.
“I want to show June the mirror,” said Maddie with a smile.
“Help yourself,” said Angelica waving a hand toward the mirror.
“It is good to see you, Maddie,” she said as she waved them on and turned to help another customer.
The girls made their way over to the mirror.
“It looks different than the one in Denton,” said June.
They stood in front of the mirror. At first nothing happened. The girls were about to give up, when Jason appeared in the mirror. He appeared to be washing his face and had his eyes closed.
June gasped. “Jason,” she whispered.
Jason opened his eyes and stared at the mirror. He looked hard at the image of June in the mirror and frowned. He saw Maddie standing next to her.
“What are you doing with, Maddie, July?” he asked.
“You know my sister, July?” asked June.
“Your sister?” said Jason.
“Yes, I’m not July. I’m June,” she said.
Jason gave a big smile. “Are you twins?”
“Yes, how did you meet my sister?” asked June.
“My crew delivered a load of logs to Denton. We stopped for a drink. She and some friends came in while we were there. I’m glad you are not her,” said Jason. “She is not what I am looking for in true love.”
“How do you know I am?” asked June.
“I can feel it through the mirror,” replied Jason. “I know we belong together. When can we meet?” he asked.
“Maddie and I will be in Morristown in a couple of days,” replied June.
The mirror started to fade. June touched it with her finger tips. Jason touched his fingers to hers in his mirror. June sighed and turned to Maddie, who was grinning broadly, happy for her friend.
They started to leave when another image appeared in the mirror. Maddie looked in the mirror with a smile. Liam was in front of the mirror in the entrance hall at his home. It looked like he was getting ready to leave.
“Liam,” said Maddie.
Liam looked up and smiled.
“Hi, Maddie, where are you?” he asked.
“I’m in Rolling Fork. I have to talk to my parents about living in Morristown. I haven’t said anything to them about it, yet. I should be there in a couple of days. I’ve missed you,” she said.
“I’ve missed you, too,” he said. “I can’t wait for you to get here.”
The mirror faded back to the mirror image of the girls.
Maddie looked at June and smiled. Both girls laughed and hugged each other.
“I take it the mirror was good to you,” said Angelica smiling at them.
“The mirror was great to both of us,” said Maddie with a big smile.
June nodded her agreement also with a big smile.
“We will see you later,” said Maddie as both girls left.
Angelica shook her head and smiled. There went two very happy girls, she thought to herself.
The Judge arrived home as Maddie drove up and parked her car. Maddie went over to give him a hug and to introduce June. The Judge gave Maddie another hug and welcomed June. They all turned and started for the door, where Lucy was smiling, standing with the door open. The Judge hugged and kissed Lucy, and they all went inside.
They all headed for the dining room, where they could smell the delicious aroma coming from the kitchen.
“Oh, you made spaghetti,” said Maddie. “My favorite.” She said in an aside to June.
“Yes,” agreed Lucy. “I also have a salad and strawberry shortcake with lots of whipped cream for dessert.”
June laughed at the look of pure bliss on Maddie’s face.
“Come and help me get everything on the table while your dad washes his hands.”
Maddie and June followed her into the kitchen and started carrying things to the table. Lucy had already set dishes and utensils out. When they had everything out, Maddie started filling glasses from a large pitcher of tea. June took them to the table as Maddie filled them.
They all sat down and said the blessing. It was quiet for a few minutes as they all enjoyed their food.
“Mom, this is so good. No one else can make it like you,” said Maddie.
Lucy smiled. She loved taking care of her family.
They had almost finished eating when Maddie decided it was time to tell them her plans. She looked over at the Judge. “Dad, Mom, I saw someone in the mirror,” she said.
“Do you know who it is?” asked the Judge calmly.
“Yes, it was Liam. I saw him before when I was fifteen, but I knew we were too young, so I did not say anything about seeing him to anyone, not even Liam. But I went by the gallery today and I saw him again and he saw me and we talked.”
“I see,” said the Judge with a sigh. “It was very smart of you to wait a while before letting him know.”
“You were very brave,” said Lucy. “It must have been very hard not letting him know.”
“Yes, it was. I was afraid he would be attracted to someone else, but I thought if he did, he wasn’t meant for me. So, I waited and gave us both a chance to grow up before saying anything,” Maddie looked at her parents. “There is more. I am going to open a school to teach martial arts. I am going to open it in Morristown. Liam is going to help me look for a place this summer. June is going to be my partner.”
“What about your classes. Are you going to finish them?” asked the Judge.
“We only have one more semester. We can take most of it online. If we have to go to the university, it will be briefly and we can make quick trips,” said Maddie. “Dora and Rafe and their family will be there. Blake is living there, and June will be there with Jason.”
“You know Jason?” asked the Judge.
“I saw him in the mirror and talked to him,” said June.
The Judge sighed. “That mirror is a confounded nuisance,” he said. All three women laughed at his disgruntled words.
“You can’t fight fate, love,” said Lucy.
“I know,” said the Judge.
He looked at Maddie. If you need us we are still here for you, anytime. You also, June, consider yourself part of our family. Anything you need, just let us know,” said the Judge.
Lucy came around the table and hugged Maddie and then June.
June smiled. “Thank you all for including me. It has been a long time since I have felt like part of a family. I love the feeling.”
“We mean it,” said Lucy. “Anytime you need anything, call us.”
Maddie and June said goodnight and went upstairs to go through Maddie’s closet to decide what to take with them.
The girls spent the next day packing and later, Lucy took them both to get their hair done, insisting on treating them to lunch while they were out. In the evening, they enjoyed spending time with the Judge, but they were anxious to get to Morristown.
Before they said goodnight, Maddie and June told the Judge goodbye. He would be gone when they left the next morning.
The next morning, they packed the car and turned to hug Lucy. Lucy blinked back her tears as she hugged them and said goodbye.
“Call me and let me know when you arrive,” said Lucy.
“We will, don’t worry. We will be fine,” said Maddie as they waved goodbye.
The girls both gave a huge sigh of relief to finally be on their way.
Dora had told them to go on in and make themselves at home. She told them she was going to be at the school, but would come straight home when class dismissed. Maddie had a key to the front door.
They pulled into the drive and parked. Before they could get out of the car, Liam was at Maddie’s door, opening it for her and pulling her out into his arms. He proceeded to give her a very passionate kiss. Maddie put her arms around him and kissed him back. They both had been waiting a long time for this.
June exited the car on her side and was watching them with a smile, when a voice behind her startled her.
“We may as well say hello like them,” said Jason. He proceeded to pull June into his arms and say hello very well. June had no trouble saying hello back.
When everyone came up for air, Maddie and June leaned their heads on the guys’ chests to rest for a minute.
Maddie looked up at Liam and smiled. “Could we start over and have another hello?” she asked with a smile. They all laughed.
“Anytime,” said Liam.
He looked over to see June still being held in Jason’s arms.
“You’ve been holding out on me, Bro,” he said. “When did you meet June?”
“When she arrived a few minutes ago,” replied Jason.
“They talked through the mirror,” explained Maddie.
“Oh,” said Liam. “Welcome to the family, June.”
“Thank you,” said June faintly. She was still leaning against Jason, and he had his arms tightly around her. She did not mind. She liked having his arms around her.
“Alright you guys, help us get our luggage inside,” said Maddie. She headed for the trunk of the car, holding tightly to Liam’s hand.
Liam and Jason helped unload and carry their luggage inside. As soon as they put the luggage down, Jason reached for June’s hand and pulled her close. Liam took Maddie’s hand and, leading her over to sit on the sofa, pulled her close in his arms. Jason guided June over to the loveseat and did the same. Neither, Jason or Liam could stand not being close enough to touch. The more touching, the better as far as they were concerned.
They sat talking quietly for a few minutes. They heard the front door open and Dora called out for Maddie. Maddie answered her, and she walked into the living room. She stopped short when she saw Liam and Jason there, snuggled up with June and Maddie. Dora looked startled, as she gave them all a big smile.
“I see you made it okay,” she said.
“Yes, Oh I have to call Mom.” She took her phone out and dialed her mom.
“Hi, Mom, we made it. We are here in Dora’s living room now.” said Maddie.
“You girls take care and keep in touch,” responded Lucy.
“We will, Mom. Love you.” Maddie hung up the phone and got up to give her sister a hug.
They had barely done saying hello, when Rafe came in. He gave Maddie a big hug and smiled at June. He gave Jason a smile.
“I see you have met June,” he said.
“Yeah,” agreed Jason with a big smile.
The door opened again and Dede and Lars barreled into the room.
“Aunt Maddie,” they exclaimed. Both hurried over to give her a hug.
“Lars, you are getting so tall. If you keep this up, you will be the tallest male in the family,” Maddie teased.
Lars colored slightly as he hugged his Aunt.
Maddie hugged Dede and pulled back to give her a look over. “If you get any prettier your dad will need a gun to keep the guys away,” she said.
Dede gave a huge sigh. “Please don’t give him any ideas. He already screening my friends, and I’m only eight. I can’t imagine what he will be like when I get to be a teen.”
Everyone laughed at this pronouncement from a precocious eight-year-old. All but Rafe.
“I may have to get your mother to teach me some more karate moves, so I can scare them,” he told her while trying not to smile at her
Everyone else laughed again. Even Dede smiled at Rafe and went over and hugged him. He hugged her back and looked over her head and smiled at Dora. They both knew Dede had him wrapped around her fingers.
CHAPTER4
Back in Denton, July was trying to figure a way she could get to Morristown. She was sure, if she could have more time with Jason, she could make him fall for her. Her problem was she didn’t have a lot of spare cash. She made pretty good money, but she also liked to spend her money on clothes and shoes. She also spent a lot of what she made partying.
July could not stand staying home and being bored. She would never understand how June could spend so much time studying. When their mom was sick and June asked if she could help take care of her, she flatly refused. The sickroom was not for her. Just thinking about being around sick people made her shiver. There was no way she was going to get stuck with sickroom duty.
July absentmindedly leafed through a magazine in the hair salon waiting room. As she passed a page, something caught her eye. She turned back to the page and read it again. It was an advertisement about a job opening for a hairdresser. The job was at a salon in Morristown. July started smiling. It was fate. She tore the page out of the magazine, folded it, and put the page into her pocket. She would check on it as soon as she finished work.
The people in the salon were surprised at how cheerful July was for the rest of the day. They kept giving her strange looks. She just smiled and ignored them.
As soon as July arrived home after work, she opened her laptop and looked up the salon offering the job in Morristown. She filled out the online application and sent it in. Now, all she had to do was wait, something she was not good at. She went to fix herself something to eat while she waited.
July smiled to herself as she thought about the look on Jason’s face when he saw her in Morristown. He was sure to be surprised. She frowned. Jason had not seemed very enthusiastic about her, but she was sure she could bring him around. She just needed a little more time to work on him.
There was a ting announcing the arrival of a message. July hurried over to her laptop to check it out. It was the salon. They wanted to talk to her on the phone. They asked her to call tomorrow during business hours, between seven and four. July was so excited she danced around the room. She did not have to be at her present job until nine. She would have plenty of time to call first.
July started thinking about her present job. It was a good job and paid well. Maybe she could take a leave of absence instead of quitting. If things did not work out for her in Morristown, she would have a job to return to. Her apartment rent was just paid, so she had a month before it was due again. She smiled. Everything was working out great. It was as if it was meant to be.
First thing the next morning, right after coffee, July placed a call to the number on the message.
“Hello, Dulce’s,” said a voice
“Hello, this is July Mavorn. I am calling about the job offer. I applied and received an answer saying to call,”
“Yes, Miss Mavorn, hold a minute. I’ll put you through to Marcie. She is in charge of hiring.”
The call was switched over while July waited. She was tense with anticipation.
“Hello, Miss Mavorn, thanks for getting back to me. I received your application. It looks good. May I ask why you want to move to a job in Morristown?” asked Marcie.
“My sister is moving there and I am friends with the Haggerty’s. I thought I would like to be closer to my sister,” said July.
“I see,” said Marcie. “How soon could you be here?” she asked.
“I've got the job?” asked July.
“Yes,” said Marcie. “It will be on a trial basis. We will give it a month to see how it goes.”
“Great,” said July. “I can be there on Monday.”
“We will see you on Monday,” responded Marcie. “Goodbye, Miss Mavorn.”
“Goodbye,” said July.
July decided to talk to the supervisor at her present job on the phone. It would save having to face her and ask for time off. She placed a call to the salon.
“Hello, Sweet Cuts,” said Helen.
“Hi, Helen, this is July. I have a family emergency. I need to take the next two months off. I have at least that much time off built up,” said July.
“Alright, I wish we had more notice, but it can’t be helped. I hope everything goes alright with your family.”
“Thanks, Helen, I’ll be in touch.”
July hung up the phone with a smile of satisfaction. Everything was working out great. Jason would not know what hit him. She rubbed her hands together. She went to sort through her things to decide what to take with her.
* * *
In Morristown, after a lingering goodbye on Dora and Rafe’s front porch, Liam and Jason left for the night, only after promising to be there first thing the next day to take the girls around to look for sights for their karate school.
Inside, Rafe drew Dora into his arms.
“I can’t say anything,” he said with a grin. “I still feel the same way about you. I can’t keep my hands off of you,” he said with a kiss.
“I am so glad,” said Dora, when she could draw a breath. “I feel the same way about you.” She raised her mouth for another kiss.
“Alright you two,” said Maddie with a grin as she and June came inside. “What kind of way is this for an old married couple to act?”
“The best kind of way,” responded Rafe, with a smile.
“I agree,” said Maddie. “So, if you will excuse us, June and I will say good night and leave you to it.”
The girls went upstairs to their rooms, but they were too excited to sleep. Maddie went to June’s room and knocked quietly. June opened the door and stood back for her to enter.
“I’m too wound up to relax,” said Maddie. “I can’t believe I’m finally getting together with Liam.”
She wandered over and sat on the stool at the dresser. June sat on the bed and leaned back.
“I know,” she said. “I’ve already pinched myself to be sure I’m not dreaming. From the way it hurt, I would say I am wide awake.”
Maddie laughed. “Liam told me he had been looking around and has several sights in mind for me to look at. I am anxious to get started. I am more anxious to get started on a life with Liam. It has been a long wait.”
“Yes, when my mother got over her illness and told me she was remarrying and moving to Australia, I felt so alone. Then, I met my new roommate and I knew everything was going to be alright. Your family has made me feel so welcome, and Jason takes my breath away. I never thought I would be so happy,” said June.
“You are the only one I want to be a partner with. You are never alone. We are here for you and Jason can hardly stand to let you out of his sight. Everything is working out great. We both have found our true loves and we are going to do great in our new school. I had better go and let you get some sleep,” said Maddie rising. “Good night, I’ll see you in the morning.”
June walked her to the door and gave her a hug.
“Good night,” she said.
As Maddie left, she heard June’s phone ringing. She smiled. Jason was not having any luck sleeping, either.
When Maddie entered her room, she was just in time to answer her ringing phone. She hurried to answer before anyone else was awakened.
“Hi, Liam,” she said.
“How did you know it was me?” he asked.
“Your name was on the screen,” she said with a grin.
“Oh, yeah, I forgot. I just wanted to say good night one more time,” he whispered.
“Why are you whispering?” asked Maddie.
“I don’t want to wake anyone up. I just needed to touch base with you again. I have waited so long to have the right to be with you. I have no intention of letting anyone else interfere. I love you, Maddie. You are my light at the end of the tunnel. You are my reason for being. Without you, I am nothing,” Liam paused.
Maddie had silent tears rolling down her cheeks.
“Liam, that was so beautiful,” she sniffed. “I love you, too. The wait has been very hard, but we can be together now. I have already told my parents about us. They are okay with it. Your mom is a sweetheart. We just have a few minor details to work out, then, we can be together.”
“Maddie, don’t cry. This is a happy time. I wish I was close enough to hold you,” replied Liam.
“I am happy. These are happy tears. I wish I could be snuggled in your arms, too. I have thought about being in your arms often the last four years,” said Maddie.
“I have thought about it, too. Soon we will not have to be apart. I will have the right to hold you all night,” said Liam.
“Good night, Love,” said Maddie. “I’ll see you first thing in the morning.”
“Good night, dream of me. I’ll meet you there,” said Liam.
Maddie hung up the phone and turned on the bed and hugged her pillow.
“You know, pillow,” she said. “You are a poor substitute for Liam.”
Hugging the pillow, she drifted off to sleep.
* * *
June was having a similar conversation with Jason. Neither of them wanted to say good night and lose contact with the other. Jason was afraid it would all turn out to be a dream. He could not believe he had found his own true love. He wanted to hold on tightly and never let go. He could hardly believe he had fallen for someone so hard, so fast. June was the one for him. He was so ready to make a life with her.
“I know we don’t know each other very well, but I love you and we can get to know all there is to know as we go along,” said Jason.
“I love you, too,” said June. “We have all the time in the world to learn about each other. All I need to know is that you love me.”
“While we are looking at buildings tomorrow, I will take you where I am going to build us a house. I want to be sure you like the location,” said Jason. He already surveyed and blocked off five acres of land next to Rafe. He had a crew prepared to start building a house for him. They were getting everything ready to start building. He wanted to have a place to take June when they were married.
“Okay,” said June. She was thrilled to know Jason was looking ahead to a life for the two of them.
“Good night, Love,” said Jason. “I’ll see you in the morning.”
“Good night,” whispered June.
CHAPTER5
When the girls stumbled into the kitchen the next morning looking for coffee, they found a large pot already made and waiting for them. Dora and the children were already at school, and Rafe was at work, but Dora left them a note telling them to help themselves to cinnamon buns. They were being kept warm in the oven.
Maddie pulled the plate of cinnamon buns from the oven and, taking her coffee with her, sat at the table and began eating one of the buns. She offered the plate to June, and she and June sat at the table and savored the coffee and the delicious buns. After a few bites, Maddie groaned.
“These are so good,” she said.
“Ummm,” agreed June.
The doorbell rang and Maddie took her bun with her as she went to answer it. She opened the door to find Liam and Jason standing there. Liam leaned forward and took a bite of her cinnamon bun. He swallowed the bite and then proceeded to kiss her. Jason went around them and headed for the kitchen.
“You taste like cinnamon,” said Liam. “I like cinnamon,” He proceeded to kiss her again.
Jason found June eating her bun and drinking her coffee. He took the coffee from her and placed it on the table. He lay what was left of the cinnamon bun on the plate. Then, he drew her close and proceeded to say good morning in the best possible way.
When they finished their greeting, Liam and Maddie joined June and Jason in the kitchen.
“Are you girls ready to look at possible school sites?” asked Liam.
“Yes, we are,” said Maddie.
“Then, let go,” said Jason. They all four grabbed another bun and some napkins before heading for the door.
“We are going in Liam’s car,” said Jason. “We thought it would be more comfortable than my truck.”
Liam opened the door for Maddie to get in the front with him, and Jason opened the back door and held it for June to get into the back with him.
Liam drove first to an abandoned factory building at the edge of town. They all got out and looked around. Liam had the keys, so they went inside as well. Maddie and June looked around. It just didn’t strike them as what they were looking for.
“I don’t think this is what I’m looking for,” said Maddie.
June shook her head. “It just doesn’t feel right,” she agreed.
Liam smiled and sighed with relief. He hadn’t liked the place either, but it was Maddie’s decision. He and Jason led them back to the car for the next location. The next stop was on Main Street. It was two buildings down from Blake’s law firm. It had, at one time, been a clothing store. Liam took out another key to open the door for them.
“Where did you get all of these keys?” asked Maddie.
“I went by a realtor’s office when I arrived in town. I checked out locations and picked up the keys. I thought it would save time,” said Liam.
Maddie squeezed his hand. “Yes, it does. Thanks,” she said.
“You’re welcome,” said Liam with a smile.
They all went inside. Liam was holding Maddie’s hand and Jason had his arm around June. The girls looked around. There were mirrors on one wall. The front section had a desk and some chairs. They walked further into the building. It was a large open space. It had two dressing rooms and two restrooms. There was a good size room that could be used as an office.
“It needs some work, but I think it will work,” said Maddie.
“It has everything we need,” agreed June. “I like it, and I like being in the middle of town. It will make it convenient for students.”
Maddie looked at Liam. “What do you think?” she asked.
Liam smiled. He liked Maddie asking for his opinion.
“I was hoping you would pick this one. I like it,” he said.
“We can get some of our crew to help you get it in order,” said Jason.
“Let’s go talk to the realtor and see if we can afford it,” said Maddie.
“Before we go, let’s stop and say hello to Blake. We haven’t let him know we are here,” said Maddie.
They all went back outside, and Liam locked up. Liam took Maddie’s hand and Jason took June’s. They decided to walk the short way down to Blake’s office.
When they entered the front room of his office, Maddie smiled at the receptionist.
“Hi, I’m Maddie Hawthorn. Is my brother in?”
“Maddie,” called Blake as he came through the door to his office. “I thought I heard your voice out here.” He came over and gave her a hug.
Blake drew back and smiled when he saw Maddie’s hand go back into Liam’s.
“When did you get into town?” he asked.
“We arrived last night. This is my roommate, June Mavorn.” She said motioning to June.
“Hello, June,” said Blake smiling at her.
He looked at her hand firmly in Jason’s and smiled again. “I see you have met Jason.”
“She saw him in the mirror,” said Maddie, “just as I saw Liam.”
Blake looked startled for a moment. “It looks like a lot has been going on. Do Mom and Dad know?”
