The jade-green rocking horse E-Book

Romy Bach

• Herausgeber: novum pro Verlag
• Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 657

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2023

Beschreibung

A young jewelry designer, two jewelers, a police officer, an architect. They all live in a tranquil small town. They have all experienced darkness. They all hope for a quieter life. But their lives will not remain so tranquil. Evil figures lurk in the shadows and soon they have to realize that they have to be prepared for anything. Will they survive even the most difficult trials together? Can they trust each other with the secrets of their past? And in the end, will they still be able to create the life they long for? An emotional journey accompanies the inhabitants of a small town through the abysses of terrible experiences, but also through all the moments of humanity they can give to each other.

Leseprobe

Chapter 1

It looked beautiful now at the just finished small cottage next to the newly designed small park. Of the four trees that had stood next to the cottage, three were now still visible. The sickly looking tree had been taken away, as well as the earth that had previously surrounded the trees with a light yellow lawn. Instead, brightly colored funkies had been planted by the remaining trees.

The seeds from the newly sown lawn were already germinating. A light green touch covered the fresh soil. Bushes had also been replaced next to the large parking lot. Golden-yellow blooming winter jasmine had replaced the thorny bushes with their sharp thorns.

Today, finally, this fence with the high bars should now also be taken away. For such a long time this fence had had to protect the cottage.

That's why the two jewelers Ralf Keller Senior and Junior had driven here with the mini-van. Because very soon the new branch of their jewelry store was to be opened in this newly designed little house.

Inside, busy hands were putting the last decorative elements in the right place. Everything already looked very noble. Only the precious jewelry, that was still stored in the safe. The two jewelers were surprised at how peacefully it had now remained here.

Right after the surroundings had been redesigned. Keller Senior had followed exactly the specifications that had been handed to him.

Now the employees of Sam von Burg drove up. These men immediately began to dismantle one lattice element after the other and load it onto the truck.

Finally, after so long, the neat little house was freely accessible again.

Sam von Burg drove up and greeted his employees. Sam, too, was amazed at how peaceful it was here now. He hurried to the back, to the newly landscaped lawn. He stopped, moved, because he had not expected the peace and quiet there.

Ralf Keller Junior already approached Sam von Burg. He greeted him and the senior also drove up to them in his wheelchair. This greeting was also very warm.

"So, soon this rest will also be gone from the fence. Soon the people with you

can pass by unhindered. I hope so much that it remains as peaceful here now as it is at this moment," Sam said to the two jewelers. Because no one wanted to remember the past time.

Now the three men went inside the cottage. Sam also wanted to get a picture of this work in the newly designed interior. His wife Emma had drawn the interior design. A very talented carpenter and his apprentice had done all the work with the very precious woods. Now the final work with the precious ornamental and decorative elements was underway. Soon the new, large shop window would also be completely decorated. Sam was very pleased with the work. The two Kellers were also very pleased. It had paid off that they had commissioned the architect from Burg to do all the remodeling. Sure, there were moments that no one wanted to look back on. But now it was time to look ahead.

"When do you think, von Burg, the little houses you ordered will be delivered?" now asked Keller Junior. "Oh, if you wish, the construction of them can begin tomorrow. Everything is ready and they are all just elements that have to be put together. There are twelve houses, on both sides of the rear part of the parking lot, where they will be placed. My deputy will supervise this construction work. Anton Siegfried has already reserved all the trees you ordered. The head forester will also deliver plenty of fir and spruce greenery so that the exhibitors can decorate everything abundantly with it. You two just have to give the OK as to when this work should begin."

"What do you mean, Ralf, starting next week, or is that too soon?"

"No, I think this is just right. So everyone has enough time to furnish and design their little house. You've visited all the exhibitors, Dad, looked at all their work. I think there will be a nice, fine party, for the opening of our store. Von Burg, you and Emma will surely come to see us here on the eve of the opening, won't you? We have invited everyone who helped with the renovation and redesign. So that we can find enough time to show you everything in detail. Here, I'll give you this envelope. Please bring Emma as well. Surely your nanny will take care of the two children during this time.

We would be very happy to welcome Emma as well. It has been a while since I visited Emma and the babies. I hope that all have recovered well? It was a big, unexpected surprise for all of us that you became parents so early. Emma was very active until the last hour."

"Thank you very much for your invitation. Emma will be very pleased. Yes, everyone is doing well and I am glad that it has remained so peaceful until now. We don't want to think back to the past now. Emma will surely confirm our coming to you yet. So let us remain that the discussed exterior works will start from next Monday. I will inform my co-workers, Anton Siegfried and the head forester in this sense. I hope that things will remain peaceful here even without this fence."

Sam now said goodbye to the jewelers and hurried back to his car. He wanted to quickly drop in on Emma and the kids at the old mill. He also wanted to give Emma the invitation right away. She would be pleased when he told her that that horrid fence was now finally gone. He would tell Antonia how peaceful it was here now. For she had given Keller Senior the impetus to have the surroundings redesigned. Everything incriminating could no longer be seen or felt.

Chapter 2

Emma had lain down a bit, just now the two babies had drunk with her. But even this still made Emma very tired after this emergency operation. Sure, it had only been three weeks since Tonia had driven her to the Waldsee Clinic in a frenzy that early morning. The subsequent emergency surgery saved little Jonny from suffocating through his umbilical cord. He had gotten caught in it, and haste had been the order of the day. But now he and his little sister Olga were well recovered. Emma had been back home with the two babies at the mill for a good two weeks. Antonia Grob, the hired nanny, took good care of Emma and the two babies. She took great care that Emma lay down again and again. Because it had not been easy for Emma. First this emergency operation and what she had been told gently afterwards by Sam and Antonia.

Because exactly in this time, when the two babies saw the light of day, an attack had been carried out on Sam von Burg, which had been planned for a long time.

The premature birth of the babies and the subsequent call to Sam by Antonia saved Sam from this terrible attack. But these terrible pictures, which immediately went around the world, Emma did not forget. She was grateful that Antonia saw so well to her and the two children.

Sam, too, was grateful that Tonia was with Emma, because it meant he could go about his work with a little less worry. Sure, he had become even more cautious now. But so far, everything had remained calm. Everyone now hoped that it would stay that way.

Emma recovered slowly, but it got a little better with each passing day. Since Tonia had brewed these new drops for her, she felt better every day. For a few days now, Emma also accompanied Sam again when he took the bitch out. The exercise in the fresh air did Emma good. After all, she had always walked the dog before.

Ursi, the Doberman bitch, guarded the children's cradle since Emma came here with the babies. As soon as she returned home from her walk, Ursi lay down in front of the cradle again. It was now in the newly furnished nursery. The cradle was so big that both babies found good place in it. Tonia's room was right across the hall, so she could be with the children very quickly when they made their presence known. So Sam could also enjoy an undisturbed night's rest. Even though Emma always brought a baby to her bed so that it could drink with her, Sam had a sound sleep and rarely woke up.

Now both children seemed to have gotten used to the new routine for drinking. They only got to drink from Emma in the late evening and then in the early morning. Otherwise, they had to get used to the bottle, because the milk bar at Emma's seemed to be slowly drying up.

Now Emma hoped she would be fit again by the time the jewelry store opened.

For Emma had wished for so long that she would be able to enter the store without that awful fence. That now seemed to be within reach.

Emma had now also taken over almost the entire household again herself. Only the heavy baskets with wood or the wet laundry, Emma did not lift yet. But the rolls, which everyone loved, Emma now baked herself again. Emma also did most of the paperwork in Sam's office again. There was a lot of paperwork that had accumulated while Emma was in the hospital.

Now every day Emma and Sam looked at some of the greeting cards that Sam and Antonia had taken from the flower gifts. Congratulations had arrived from all over the world. But Emma was careful with all the envelopes. It was also now time to open the gifts and packages that had arrived in such abundance. But even in this work, the greatest caution was called for. For no one knew what might be lurking inside, as both knew only too well.

Chapter 3

It had been the beginning of August, Ralf Keller Junior had been on the road with his father in the minivan. It was oppressively hot, Keller Senior complained of great thirst. But the usual road they had always taken was closed that day because of an accident. So they passed a small café on this unfamiliar road. Here Keller Junior stopped, because the senior had to look for a toilet very urgently. So Ralf Junior pushed his father with the wheelchair straight to the toilet facility. There the senior would manage by himself. Junior hurried into the restaurant and ordered drinks for himself and his father.

A young woman was at work in the restroom. She saw the elderly man in the wheelchair and took to keeping an eye on him. He appeared to be alone. Later, the man wheeled into the hallway. He appeared to be looking for something. Stella then approached the man and asked if he had lost something, could she help? "Yes, I must have lost my glasses in the booth, they must have fallen out of my pocket. If you would be so kind as to look there in the 3 for me?"

Stella hurried over and quickly found the glasses she was looking for. When she brought them to the wheelchair user, the younger edition of the older man was standing there next to the wheelchair. Ralf Keller Junior had gone to check on his father, who had been absent for quite a long time.

Stella handed over the glasses she had found and was about to leave. But the senior called Stella back and pressed a bill and a small card into her hand. "Thank you for going on a search for me, I'm glad I have my glasses back now. Have a nice day." After that, the two men moved away, for the senior now wanted to go quickly quench his thirst after all. It was pleasantly cool in the guest room, and so Kellers stayed longer than they had intended.

They heard someone talking to the cleaning lady. "Stella, can you cover for me? My husband hurt himself and was rushed to the hospital. I need to see him urgently."

"Yes, if the boss has no objections, I'll take over for you here. How long will you be gone?"

"Oh, that's uncertain. I don't think there's enough time to come back. But I should be back here tomorrow. Thank you for taking over for me here."

So it was then Stella, who had quickly changed and now served in the guest room. Finally, Kellers also paid for the drinks. Then the senior said, "You are probably the saving angel here today, yes?"

"When someone asks me for help, I rarely say no. I was left alone myself and I know how much that hurts."

The senior had noticed the sad look of this woman and thought for itself that this had experienced probably also bad. But he had also seen the beautiful necklace, which this woman now wore. Ralf senior took it upon himself to ask for this Stella, if he would be alone tomorrow. Because this sad look had touched him deeply. He slipped the cash register receipts into his pocket and let his son push him into the minivan. Yes, he would call the café tomorrow and ask about this Stella.

But it wasn't until a few days later that the senior found time to check on Stella.

He was told that Stella was employed here as a cleaner in her spare time, but would also help out everywhere else in case of emergencies, since she was dependent on this income because of her studies. Unfortunately, the extra income she would earn with her jewelry creations would otherwise not be enough. Keller Senior had seen correctly, because this woman's necklace was unique. He requested Stella's address and thanked her for the information. Keller Senior wrote a long letter immediately afterwards. He knew that jewelry for the younger generation would also be in demand in the new store.

He asked this Ms. Klein that she should get in touch, since he was very interested in her jewelry. Could she imagine putting together a small collection for him? But the senior avoided mentioning where he had seen her necklace.

Stella was a little surprised when she read the letter. Because there was the address of this very prestigious business noted.

After much deliberation, Stella picked up her cell phone and called the number printed on it. She was lucky, Keller Senior answered right away. He was delighted to hear that Mrs. Klein would be happy to put together a small collection for him and send it here.

This was their salvation, because almost the entire salary was used up. The payment for the new semester was also due. Stella had no other choice. But she needed this degree, without it she would soon be on the street.

Keller Senior was very surprised by this beautifully created work after all. Yes, that was exactly what he imagined. Exactly this jewelry was still missing with them in the display in the new store.

So Keller Senior immediately inquired how many pieces Stella had in stock. He informed her that he would be very happy to offer her work in his display. Would it be possible for Ms. Klein to present herself to him in the near future? Whether it would be possible for her to bring some pieces already? He would like to secure her with a contract.

Stella listened to this man's requests, she didn't have to think for a minute. "Yes, I'll come by your house tomorrow at 2 p.m. and bring everything I have in stock right away." Stella hoped that the jeweler would already buy some pieces from her. Because that way she could still pay the amount due for college on time.

Stella kept only three pieces for herself. She carefully packed the remaining pieces. She hoped so much that she would be able to graduate. After all, she didn't want to always have to make a living cleaning toilets and working in the kitchen.

In the evening, Keller Senior brought the jewelry sent to him to his son's apartment. The latter was very surprised by the beauty of these pieces. He quickly wanted to know who would make such jewelry. He thought the same as Keller Senior. They had to have something on offer for the younger clientele as well. "Father, I would like to include something like this in our display. Can you get that for me? Because very soon we're going to need more of these. This work is so beautifully created."

"Yes, that's what I thought when I saw these parts. That's why Mrs. Klein will come to see me tomorrow after lunch. I hope she will bring me some more parts from her stock. Ralf, I would like to offer a contract to Mrs. Klein, do you agree? We should be quick before someone beats us to it."

"Dad, be careful, I want to look at this woman first, then we'll talk about it. But I think that we should already have the contract prepared. This is then quickly completed. But I like this jewelry very much. So let's look at this woman Klein together and see what she will present to us."

Keller Junior was astonished when he saw who was standing in front of them. Only when he looked closely did he recognize the woman who had fetched his father's glasses from the toilet.

But he held back with questions and invited Ms. Klein into the house. They had arranged to meet in Keller Senior's apartment. Kellers were very surprised to hear that Mrs. Klein attended art school and earned her living with cleaning work.

"In my very rare free time, I then finish these pieces of jewelry. Because it is exactly this that I love to do. Here I have brought for you my stock. I hope you enjoy these pieces."

Both men looked at each other only briefly, then the junior said, "Ms. Klein, we would like to offer you a contract. We are very interested in your work. Can you imagine that you could make such jewelry for us? We would also like to offer such beautiful unique pieces to our younger clientele. We would also like to purchase the present jewelry right away. Have you thought about what you would like to have for it?"

Keller Senior only nodded. But Stella narrowed her eyes and pulled a price list from her pocket, "Here's what I charge for my work. I hope this meets your expectations?" Both men now looked at the price list. "Ms. Klein, we will put down double for all of your work at hand. I hope this is all right with you? Dad, I'll get the money here in a minute. If you could just add it all up already, will you?"

Keller Junior brought a larger, velvet-lined jewelry box into the room. He put on white, fine gloves and looked at all the pieces before carefully placing them in the box. He always placed a piece of velvet between them so that nothing was scratched. Stella placed one hand over her heart, reciting a silent prayer of thanks. She knew this amount would be enough for all that was outstanding. A small reserve would also go into the account.

Stella also agreed to a contract. She would see how much the jewelers needed. Then she would see what other work she would have to do. But she was so thankful that all the jewelry was paid to her in cash right away. Yes, she would sacrifice some night hours. But these were worth it to Stella. It was agreed that she would soon receive the two contracts by mail. After that, the men also immediately placed an extensive order.

When the Kellers said goodbye to Mrs. Klein, the senior again saw this sadness in the woman's gaze. Again he wondered what this woman might have experienced?

When Stella entered her small studio, she immediately threw herself on the bed and cried unrestrainedly. She whispered again and again: "Oh Flori, where are you? Why did I give you away? Oh, why am I being punished so much?"

Only the ringing of her cell phone woke Stella up. It was already night and Stella knew she had overslept. Because her work should have started a long time ago. Finally Stella answered: "Yes, I don't feel well, I had to lie down. Is it very urgent or can I come by in the morning? I just can't make it today. Thank you, see you tomorrow at six. Have a good evening." Tears came to her eyes again, but then Stella pulled herself together. She had work to do. Right now she would start it.

First Stella looked at the stock of her blanks. There was not much left. Tomorrow she had to go shopping. But it would still be enough for three to four pieces. She would finish them tomorrow, when there was good light. Now she also did not have the necessary rest for it.

Stella rode her bike to work, in the morning there was still almost no traffic. So she arrived at the café quite early. She unlocked the back entrance, got changed and started with the work she had not been able to do yesterday. Fortunately, she finished quickly, because it seemed that this facility had not been used that much yesterday. But as she was putting the buckets and rags back in the closet, Stella heard a whimper. Like someone was crying softly. She went to investigate these sounds and found a girl lying in a pool of blood. Stella grabbed the nearest door, pulled her cell phone out of her coat pocket and called for an ambulance and a doctor. Yes, in front of Stella was a girl who was about to give birth to a baby. Stella hurried outside and the ambulance drove up to the back door, fortunately only with blue lights and no siren. Stella quickly showed the doctor the way and a stretcher was brought in. Stella already heard the cry of the just born baby. Then night fell around her. Only the cold hands of the emergency doctor brought Stella back to reality. "Hello you, can you stand up? Or should we admit you too?" Stella shot up, "No, I was just very scared by all the blood, where is the girl now? I found her when I was locking up here, I was cleaning upstairs by the toilets." The doctor measured Stella's blood pressure and asked if she was sure she felt okay again. If not, he said, she should tell him right away.

"Yes, all good now, I'll clean up here and then go home. Do I have to report this to the boss or do you?"

"I just have to write down your details, and the police will take care of the rest. Because you still have to go there for the protocol then. But you will then be invited to do so."

Quickly the doctor disappeared. Stella fetched everything to wipe up all the blood and then clean everything up. Then she finally started on her way home. But soon the police contacted Stella. If possible, she should come right away, otherwise before the evening. "We have to record everything we have from you. As the doctor told us, you found the girl at your work. Please bring all the identification of yourself to the office." Stella dreaded this, because she knew that she would have to relive everything she had experienced herself. But this seemed to be the punishment that had been imposed on her.

Stella made herself a very strong black tea. She also had to eat something. Yes, she still had a little leftover from the dry bread in the cupboard. Today she would get something to eat, then go to the post office. Afterwards, she would probably have to go to that police station. She wanted to get this over with right away!

It was not so bad there then, the officer present was very empathetic. She did not torment Stella with many questions. Stella was very grateful to her for that.

Now it was time to go to the mineral dealer. Stella hoped that he had saved some for her again. Yes, a very large box was ready for Stella.

"I thought I'd save all this scraps for you. After all, since the university is closed at the moment, you'll have plenty of free time to craft now."

"Thank you for thinking of me. Yes, I was able to recycle some of the last box. Let's see what I can make from it. There are always girls asking for things like that. Thank you and have a great day."

Stella loaded the heavy box onto her bike and slowly rode home. But only then Stella went to the small market to get something to eat. There the waitress handed her a bag of fruit, which otherwise would probably have been thrown in the trash. Also at the bread, the older woman handed her a bag of pastries. Stella bought herself another small loaf of bread and a small can of meat. That had to be enough for the coming days. She would boil down the fruit and eat much of it fresh. But soon she would get to work on the jewelry. The two jewelers had written down a lot of things. Fortunately, no one wanted a little rocking horse for a baby. Because this would make Stella only with difficulty. Tears were about to well up in her eyes again. But Stella suppressed them now. First she looked at the fruit, then at the pastries. Yes, she would have to boil down a lot of the fruit. Because Stella did not want to let anything spoil. After that she looked at the box with the waste pieces from the merchant. Oh, he had kept a lot of very nice pieces. That would be enough for the whole order. She only had to get the chains and leather straps. But even there, Stella knew where she could get them for next to nothing. Now Stella finished the pieces she had prepared the previous night. After that she put the blanks ready, for further ordered parts. But today she did not want to oversleep her work in the café. Today was the day for which a large busload of elderly people had been announced. Surely there would be a lot of work afterwards. Stella set her alarm clock on her cell phone. She would leave a little earlier today so that she would not be back so late. After all, there was now more frequent fog in the evening. Soon the autumn would begin, Stella was always afraid of that. Because the early darkness, that was always threatening for her. Stella was also very afraid of these terrible storms.

Yes, there was a lot of work today, because there was also a lot to do in the kitchen. But first the toilet facilities, then the kitchen. When she finally wanted to change, the boss hurried over to her. Stella was asked to be there at eight o'clock the next day. Once again, two buses had been registered. But starting Monday, the café would be closed for two weeks. Stella wanted to manage this time well. Because very soon the lectures would start again. She wanted to have most of the order ready by then.

After that, it was back to university. Work at the café would also begin again.

Stella was now reassured because she had been able to settle all the outstanding bills. This gave her great security. Yes, she was so grateful that she had been able to sell all her jewelry at the jewelers. Stella knew that the young people did not have so much money and yet they wanted to be able to buy something nice now and then.

Chapter 4

Emma always enjoyed it very much when Antonia stayed with the children and she could go shopping. Slowly, almost the usual daily routine began again. Emma had also started preparing the lessons for the two trainees again. Fortunately, she had prepared so much of it before the babies' unplanned early birth. But now Emma had to see that she would soon be able to send Nele, her substitute, documents again. Soon, Emma wanted to lead the classes herself again, if possible. But first she wanted to see how far the girls had come.

Today, however, Emma went by the mailboxes herself again. Until now, Sam had always had to do that. She had then looked at everything with Sam and processed most of the mail herself afterwards. But Emma had always planned enough time for her babies.

She knew that the two children would grow up very quickly. Emma saw this with her and Sam's godchildren. Little Emmi and Samuel had grown so fast that Emma could only marvel. So Emma wanted to enjoy this short time when the babies were still so small. Now each child drank with her only once a day. Soon the children would only drink from the bottle.

Emma and Sam also had to look for cribs. Because soon the cradle would be too small for the two of them. Emma had already looked at a few things on the PC. But she thought that Anton the carpenter should make these cribs. So Sam commissioned Anton with this work. Since he would soon be a father himself, Anton was very happy about the order from Sam and Emma.

Since the work with the installation in the small house was now finished, Anton could devote himself again more to the wishes of his furniture customers. The new children's room in his house was also finished. Anton was glad that it would now be a little quieter again. But it seemed that many people wanted to give themselves something long-lasting for the festive season, so Anton and his apprentice Luke kept getting new orders.

Luke had saved every last bit of the precious wood they had installed at the jewelry store. From these Luke created in his spare time very beautiful little boxes. On the lid of these boxes were very beautiful inlaid mosaics to admire. Anton and Luke wanted to give some of these boxes to the two jewelers for the opening. Anton had built a very small cradle from small parts. This should also go as a gift to the two jewelers.

But now it was time to work on the little wooden houses. Emma Frei had drawn these little houses for Anton. Keller Senior had come up with something very special for the opening of his new store. He wanted to set up a small, fine Advent market in front of the house, on one half of the large parking lot.

Very soon he had chosen some artists, visited them and looked at their work. Twelve artists had been selected, who would offer their works for sale from the small wooden houses. Keller Senior had also commissioned from Anton Siegfried spruce and fir trees in pots that were not too big. The employees of a flower store would decorate these little trees.

The entrance to the small market should be designed like an archway. "Welcome", should be read on a board. Everything was to be decorated with lots of green branches and cones. Keller wanted very little light on it. Because everything should look as natural as possible. Here, too, Emma had captured Keller Senior's wishes in the picture.

So now the construction work for this small market was to begin on the coming Monday. Some of Sam's employees together with Anton and Luke would build up the little houses on the designated place in front of the new store. Keller Senior would supervise this work together with Beni, Sam's foreman. Industrious hands would create the archway with lots of greenery. Florists would decorate the little trees. Inside the new store, the last works would be done before the opening. The whole area had already been closed off with fine fences so that no one would be able to enter unseen. But the grids would be hidden by the little houses.

Ferdinand Siegfried, the city president who now ran the city, had been informed about this work very early on. Sam knew that Ferdi would have a look around there even before the opening. It was planned that a boulder disguised as a large package would be moved in front of the gate entrance. This package would act as a bollard and no one would be able to speed towards the cottages. Keller Junior wanted all visitors and exhibitors to be safe. That's why he had contacted the security service early on.

Because he also knew that you had to be prepared for everything during this time.

Chapter 5

Emma had also thought about what she could bring to this celebration together with Sam. Surely some small appetizers and something to drink would be served there. So Emma simply asked at Kellers. Since it would be evening, Emma wanted to bake these delicious spice bites. They could be served with champagne as well as with juice. Since it would then be the first weekend of Advent, these cutlets seemed very appropriate to Emma. Both cellar men were very enthusiastic about Emma's suggestion. Yes, so they could already order everything for the catering.

Emma was now also able to buy all the ingredients she needed right away. Since Emma knew that most of the visitors that evening would be men, she foresaw double the amount of ingredients. Emma would bake everything in the morning, so that the cutlets could cool down well. Surely Sam would already taste them. Emma knew that, because Sam could never resist such sweetness.

Now everyone hoped that the weather would remain good. Because nobody wanted to think about a storm or a winter thunderstorm.

But there were people who had other plans. One was an excavator driver, the other had previously been the group leader of a construction crew. Both were dismissed by Ferdinand Siegfried. Yes, they had to leave a construction site that had already begun. The then city president had promised them so much. But since her accident, the new president was in power. Unfortunately, he did not agree to anything that had always been possible before. That's why the two men had sworn revenge.

They knew about the big boulder that was supposed to protect the small market as a bollard.

But they had other plans. Their boulder, disguised as a package, was made of light material and was larger than the granite boulder that had been kept ready. Yes, they had prepared well. Their package looked just like this heavy thing that was supposed to protect the market.

The two men had already loaded their package onto the small transporter. Now it was a matter of keeping their nerves and waiting.

It was Thursday around 4 p.m. when the two cellar men unlocked the door to the newly remodeled store by the little house next to the small city park. They wanted to make the final preparations for the invited guests. They would be arriving here slowly from 5 p.m. on. Everything was ready. The small appetizers had just been delivered by a party service. In the back room, drinks and glasses were ready. The two employees had prepared everything well beforehand. Stella had also come with the two cellar men. She had come from further away. She would spend the night tonight in Keller Senior's guest room and drive back tomorrow.

Stella was still surprised that she had also been invited to this little celebration. Sure, she had worked hard and completed yet another big order for the jewelers. But now Stella was happy to see where her creations were on display. She was delighted when she came here and saw these little houses and the beautiful decorations. Yes, this would certainly make a fine little market. The rock bollard had not yet been moved in front of the entrance to the little market. This would not be done until the next morning. First all exhibitors should be able to drive their objects here. Only then should this rock bollard be brought here.

Almost all the invited guests then came to the new jewelry store in the course of the evening. They were shown everything and were generously fed. The tray of Emma's spice slices was eaten up in no time. The men loved this sweet very much. But at 8 p.m. Keller Junior locked the store door. Tomorrow at 10 o'clock the opening was to be. From then on, the small market would also be accessible and open to all.

Sebastian, Sam's godfather, picked up his buddy at the apartment of the senior center like every morning. Just now he pushed the wheelchair through the entrance door and wanted to take the way to the small park. Then he saw to his great astonishment that in front of these little houses a small van was standing. There, two men were unloading a rather large package with the cargo crane. Sebastian knew that this had been planned. But he was surprised that this bollard was already unloaded there. Also, this package did not seem to be that heavy. He felt there was something very strange. He quickly pulled his cell phone out of his pocket and called Sam von Burg. He had been his godfather back then. The man in the wheelchair also thought that something was wrong.

Finally, Sam spoke up in a sleepy voice. Sebastian quickly told Sam about the observation. Sam just said, "Sebastian, call the police over, don't go over to the package, I'll be right there. Please, go to the park, but don't go over to the package." Already the connection was gone and Sebastian immediately called the police station and described there what he had seen. Again, he was asked not to go to the package, but to stay inside. Officers would come immediately. But Sebastian did not want to skip his usual morning walk. However, he chose the path further away from the parking lot, because he didn't trust this at all. Already he saw the flashing lights of two police vans turning towards the small market. The small van could not drive away now. But the two hooded men, by the cargo crane had taken flight. When Sebastian returned from his walk with his buddy in the wheelchair, he immediately saw that Sam was also standing nearby. What astonished him, however, was that Emma was also standing next to Sam. Just then, Emma slipped her cell phone into her jacket pocket. Four officers were standing near this strange package. The van had been towed from the dealership by the tow truck. It was now parked in the underground garage of the police station.

Everyone seemed to be waiting for someone. Then a gray van stopped right near the parcel. Two men in gray overalls exited it. One of the men was already fetching equipment. But soon it was clear that there were no explosives in the package. Then the tow truck from the car dealership drove up again and loaded the package onto the loading area. Yes, this part was not particularly heavy. But an uncertainty remained, because the package was taken to a vacant hall. One of the officers came over to Sebastian with Sam. Sam reassured his godfather and promised to pick him up and accompany him to the police station for the protocol. But Emma wanted to go back now, she still had to feed Olga. She was still supposed to drink with her. So Linda, the young officer, took Emma back to the mill in the patrol car. Sam would also drive back later.

Kellers had also been notified. They had immediately ordered a security service to send two men to the small market. Until they would arrive there, two officers were there, because no one wanted to take a risk, since no one knew what was planned there by these hooded men. But everything remained calm.

Shortly before nine o'clock, both cellar men drove up in the minivan, stopped further away and parked in the designated field. Both of them still had horror written all over their faces. They, too, wondered what was supposed to happen here. But the men from the security service also arrived now. That was reassuring for everyone.

Franz Bader, the city's police chief, himself questioned Sebastian, who appeared somewhat pale. He knew Sam von Burg would bring his godfather back safely to the senior citizens' residence. Sebastian would not be left alone. Sam would certainly stay with his aged godfather or take him to the mill.

It was just as well that he had called Sam when he saw this strange package standing there. Franz also wondered what was going on. It had been quiet for a few weeks now. He hoped that criminals had not gathered here again. The package in the hall would be examined by specialists.

At this time, the first exhibitors had driven up. They first had to identify themselves, then they were allowed to bring their items to the cottages designated for them. But everything remained quiet. It was not until 9:30 a.m. that a large truck drove up to unload the rock package at the designated spot. But the two security men remained on site and immediately had an eye on everyone and everything.

At 10 a.m. sharp, the entrance to the small Advent market was opened and the door to the new jewelry store was also unlocked. The first visitors streamed in. Soon there was a bustle of activity. Cell phones were pulled out, pictures were taken. The first customers entered the new store. There were already quite a few people in front of the large shop window.

But the two hooded men cursed and wondered who had betrayed them and called the police. They had thought of everything. Now their plan had turned out to be a failure. But there was still the big Christmas market of the city on the big square. They would take revenge there. They had just sworn that.

The whole weekend had remained quiet. Nothing had happened. Even Sebastian wanted to be driven back to town by Sam after lunch at the mill. Because he wanted to go and see this little market for himself when Sam was gone.

So no one heard what the hooded men had planned for Saturday. But the terror was still on the back of everyone's neck.

On the Monday after the first Advent, Emma Frei was again in charge of the training of the two young police officers. Antonia had been able to take her first days off over the weekend. Now the nanny would take good care of both babies.

Nele Danzer was relieved when she learned that Emma now wanted to take over the training again herself. The two young officers were also very happy when Emma stood in front of them in the classroom again. Because they had believed that this would only be the case again after the beginning of the year.

But Emma felt fit and wanted to fulfill her task herself again. Antonia was a very big support for her. She had helped Emma very firmly so that she could recover quickly, completely. Sam also always took time to help with feeding and looking after his children. Antonia had taught Sam very well about everything with baby care. Because Sam loved his babies so much. It was still a miracle to him that these babies were with them. For neither Emma nor Sam conformed to the common body norm.

But even now, the incident at the small Advent market showed them that evil unfortunately did not sleep. So they would have to continue to be careful.

In two weeks the big Christmas market on the big square in the city center would open the gates for ten days. Around the square were many trees. On the now bare branches of some large trees, fairy lights had been attached. In the middle of the square a big spruce was placed. Soon busy hands were busy to decorate this spruce still ready. In the coming days, the small stalls and stands around the decorated spruce would be set up. All those who did not have a market stall themselves had been able to register with the maintenance service. Exactly 65 booths and stalls found space there.

Also here the municipality had looked closely, who here at this market, his

Work wanted to offer. Everything was precisely recorded: who would occupy where which booth or stall. One small side of the square was surrounded by a slightly higher wall. The larger stalls and stands were set up there. There were only two entrances to the market. These would also be secured with rock bollards. The incident at the jeweler's market was still very much on everyone's mind. Especially the chief of police was on pins and needles. On the one hand, because he would become a father at that time. On the other hand, because he feared that also at this Christmas market, something seemed to be in preparation. Because still the two masked figures remained disappeared.

Franz Bader, the city's police chief, was glad that Emma had now taken over the training again herself. Because this way, Nele, the one female officer, could also go out again when the time required it. For it seemed that it was a very uncertain and strange time. Many people seemed to be strange. There was something like an invisible threat in the air.

Even Emma brought this up during her lessons today. She reminded the young officers to pay special attention to everyone and everything. But so far, everything remained calm. Emma suggested that all empty buildings should be searched. Because Emma also feared that the Christmas market could be a target.

So the day was getting closer and closer when the gates to the market would be opened. Ferdi had ordered that a lattice fence should also be erected on this square, for the protection of the visitors and market drivers. The four bollards had been made ready. They looked like a colorful package.

Franz Bader had become the father of a little boy the previous night.

He was relieved that everything had gone well and his wife and the baby were healthy, because for so many years they had hoped in vain for this baby. Now, at last, Mother Nature had shown some mercy after all. Anton the carpenter had also become the father of a little girl today. The stork seemed to feel at home in the city. The midwives would not be out of work. Because still now and then a baby was put into the baby hatch, with the hospital at the forest lake. The responsible people still could not explain this pull. But only Emma seemed to suspect the reason. Because what she had experienced upstairs in the little park house now confirmed her suspicions.

Capital 6

Fortunately, everything bad there was now gone. The new jewelry store was often visited by the customers. Even young people now knew that they too could find what they could afford there. After all, word of Stella's jewelry spread very quickly to everyone. Soon, without working in the café, Stella was able to earn her own living just from making jewelry. She just had to see that she had enough time to finish her degree soon. Because this was Stella's first priority.

It was the penultimate day of the Christmas market. Very many people were there on this day on the road. All wanted probably still the last gifts before the feast, get there.

Emma had also gone there with Antonia after lunch. Antonia also wanted to go shopping there for some gifts for her loved ones. She would be able to fly to her parents for Christmas. Sam and Emma had given Antonia these flights as a gift. Tonia should be able to spend these days with her loved ones. After all, she had been kept away from there for so many years. Sam and Emma wanted to do everything so that Tonia could see her parents more often.

No one had noticed that the night before the bollards at one of the entrances had been replaced by light packages. Everything seemed to be quiet.

But Emma had that crick in her neck again that she always got when something bad was about to happen. So Emma soon asked if Tonia had found everything now. Emma had bought very beautifully designed Christmas cards from an elderly woman. Now this woman seemed to want to put the few remaining cards in her bag and leave the little pad. Emma saw that two men were standing in front of one of the entrances. These men seemed very threatening to Emma. Therefore, she accompanied Antonia and the elderly woman through the other entrance to the outside. As soon as they were outside, Emma whispered to Antonia, "Quick, call the police here and then hurry to my car and I'll join you later." For the vibration in Emma's neck was now very strong. She ran to the other entrance. There, slightly hidden, was a heavy SUV next to a sloping, bare tree. Emma felt something was about to happen there. She hoped the emergency vehicles would arrive soon. The twitching of the blue lights could already be seen.

Emma crept toward the hidden car. No one was to be seen there. But Emma now did what she had been trained to do. This car would no longer be able to drive away.

Emma then raced to the arriving squad car. She asked for the megaphone and climbed the wall. From up there, she now asked everyone present to leave the square quietly. "In a moment the market will be closed, please leave the square quietly and use the exit next to the wall." Only slowly the square was now emptying. Emma repeated the announcement. Finally, movement seemed to come into the crowd.

The officers who had rushed over now also noticed the hidden car. Franz placed the patrol car in front of it, but Emma quickly pointed it away. For Emma now saw that another SUV was approaching at breakneck speed. Fortunately, there were no people around there now. Only with a jump to the side, Franz and Jack, his representative could save themselves. Because this car was now racing right towards the bollards. These flew aside as light as a feather and the car came to a halt in front of a decorated, bare tree. Emma had already jumped from the wall and hurried in a crouched position towards the now stationary car. No sooner had the driver left the car than Emma struck. The beefy man flew toward the nearest tree. Emma reached into the neck of the bullish man and dragged him away from the car. Emma then took refuge behind a mighty acacia tree. She saw the flame, already the car flew into the air. Emma heard screams, heard the sirens of the rescue and emergency vehicles. But she saw no more people in the square. Emma let herself fall against the trunk of the tree. She took a deep breath and ran for the exit. Already another car was racing through the now clear entrance. This car stopped in the middle of the square. Fireworks were about to go off, "Happy Holidays," Emma heard, but she was not fooled. She knew that this car was about to blow up as well. With a deafening bang, this car also flew into a thousand pieces. Emma knew that the hidden wagon could not be driven away, so now she shouted to everyone to get away from the slanted tree. For Emma feared that this wagon would also be packed with explosives. Everyone held their breath, but it remained quiet. But the bullish man was now racing toward the hidden car. But Emma tripped the man and he flew right in front of the hidden car. What followed, nobody liked to remember. Because where this car had stood, there was now a very large crater.

The men from the hearse that had been called in could only collect body parts from two mangled men. But Emma didn't have to watch this anymore, because Sam had been sent off by Tonia. Antonia knew as soon as Emma sent her off that she had to leave, because just a few weeks earlier Tonia had gotten into a bad situation with Emma. Antonia didn't want to experience that again, because those images still haunted her from time to time.

Sam had started to run as soon as Antonia entered and said, "Sam, go get Emma right now, before there's a bang." At first Sam had turned pale, but then he had hurried to the car, which Tonia had already turned around and left by the fountain. As he got in, he heard a bad crack from afar. Just outside the city, another detonation shook the earth. Sam parked right by the town hall. Already everything was shaken by a very violent explosion. At first Sam wanted to stay in the car, because everything inside him was shaking. But only one thought raced through his brain: "Emma!" Where was Emma? Was she still there? Where should he look for her? For he now saw the running crowd, which was now rapidly dispersing. Then he saw the twitching blue lights of the emergency and rescue vehicles. Fear gripped his heart like a block of ice. Sam leaned against a street lamp. Now he saw Franz running along, his cell phone to his ear. But Sam also saw the big branches lying on the road leading to the big square. But where did he find Emma?

Then someone plucked him by the ear. In a moment, he saw Emma standing next to him. She whispered, "Let's get out of here quickly, because who knows when there will be another bang? Emma waved to Franz, who ran to Ferdi Siegfried, who was rushing over. Sam grabbed Emma by the arm and dragged her to the parked car. There he pushed her into the driver's seat. Sam was shaking all over, he would not be able to drive the car himself. For he had seen the huge crater while running away. Wordlessly, Emma drove right up to the mill. She parked by the garden, ran into the house and immediately disappeared into the bathroom. Sam staggered into the kitchen, and Tonia hurried to meet him. Emma stepped out of the bathroom and breathed, "I don't want to see, hear, or talk to anyone. I'm about to lie down." Already Emma was closing the door to the bedroom.

Antonia had rushed to the trembling Sam and looked at him questioningly. But Sam just shook his head, he couldn't talk now. For he still saw these terrible images before him.

"Sam, what happened? Three violent bangs were heard! Where did it bang?" But Sam dropped into the nearest chair, put his arms on the table and buried his head in them. He was still shaking very violently.

Antonia fetched a piece of sugar, reached for the small bottle that Emma had left by the cups and put a few drops from the bottle onto the sugar. Wordlessly, Tonia now simply shoved the sugar into Sam's mouth. Antonia then prepared a strong lemon and lemon balm tea. This would soon help Sam to get rid of the shock he was suffering from.

Sam's cell phone rang, but he passed the annoying thing to Tonia. She immediately saw that it was the number of the police, so she answered. Franz Bader called and immediately asked for Emma and Sam. But Tonia said that both of them were not available at the moment. Emma had gone to bed and Sam was not available. Should she take a message?

"Yes, when Emma is awake, have her call me immediately. We need her statement, urgently. Because she's probably the only one who knows what happened at the Christmas market. Thank you, see you soon." Tonia immediately put the cell phone on silent. She did the same afterwards with the landline in the living room, because otherwise they would be overwhelmed by calls. That's when she saw Emma's bag lying in the living room. Already Emma's cell phone was also ringing in her bag. Yes, she would put that pest on mute, too. Emma and Sam needed silence and no disturbing calls. Sam now saw that Ursi had sat down in front of him and was looking at him with wide eyes. Sam finished his cup, got up and put on his jacket, cap and scarf and got into his boots. Then, without a word, he grabbed the dog leash and walked out with Ursi.

But Antonia went to check on the babies. Soon they would wake up and want something to drink and a dry diaper. Quietly, Antonia already closed the shutters, even in the kitchen. Because she feared that curious people would show up here. Tonia also saw that it was now beginning to snow very lightly.

Then Antonia prepared the bottles for the babies. Soon they wanted to be fed. She hoped that Sam would help her. But Emma wanted to let her sleep. She could only begin to imagine that Emma must have seen and experienced something very bad. Then Sam also stepped back into the kitchen with Ursi. He cleaned her paws and said, "Did you see, Tonia, that it's starting to snow very lightly?" Then Sam got rid of his jacket, cap and boots. He hurried to the bathroom and briefly looked into the bedroom. "Let's let Emma sleep, yes, I'll help you with the babies. After that, we'll see what we can fix for dinner for us."

When the babies were fed and freshly changed, Sam said, "I'm in the mood for these potato hash browns now. Does it require cooked potatoes? Or can you make them with raw potatoes?" Antonia was already a little surprised by Sam's desire for a potato rösti. "Yes, Sam, you use cooked, cooled potatoes for that. But we don't have such in stock. But I'll see if you also like this rösti with raw potatoes. So if you could fetch me from the cellar, a basket full of potatoes? After all, it will be a while before we can eat. But by then, maybe Emma will be awake again, too." Antonia looked in the refrigerator to see what was left for a salad. Or did Sam prefer meat, or an egg with it? Yes, salad was still there, but only a little meat. But there would still be enough eggs for fried eggs.

Sam brought the potatoes to the kitchen and already started to wash some of them. But Tonia added more potatoes. She knew Sam was hungry and would devour everything again. Hastily, Tonia began to peel the potatoes and then cut them very finely. Now the frying pan was hot enough for Tonia to fry the potatoes already. "Sam, what would you like with that, salad or a fried egg?" Sam rubbed his chin and then said, "If there are enough rolls left, I prefer the salad. We can do fried eggs in the morning then."

Tonia was just turning the Rösti cake when Emma stepped into the kitchen. "Oh, what smells so delicious, what did you just turn there, Tonia?"