A Stirring from Salem by Sheri Anderson

and lying. Her mother being poisoned and being in the car with her when she died.” The reminder made Marlena shudder. “Sometimes I think of how Charley could have died in that accident, too…”
    “And we’d never have known about her,” John said in agreement.
    “I feel as responsible for reaching out to her as I do for leaving her alone,” Marlena said, her voice choking. “Everyone assumes psychiatrists have all the answers. But that’s when we’re not emotionally involved, and that’s not now.”
    “We’re all human,” John said. “Even my gorgeous you.”
    There was a silence as she leaned against him.
    “You know how much I’ve been wanting some resolution. Truly, John, did you know she’d be here?”
    “Doc, how would I have known?” he said sincerely. “I made a few calls yesterday, and this was the only luxury game farm within driving distance of Hoedspruit that had any space. Because of a photo shoot,” he added with emphasis. “They promised me it wouldn’t be intrusive…and I figured we’d be spending plenty of ‘us’ time in our amazingly sexy room, so…here we are. Coincidence or fate. I guess that’s the real question.”
    “Of all the places in the world,” Marlena said, forcing a smile.
    They drove in silence the rest of the trip, resting in the comfort of each other’s touch and taking in the glory that surrounded them. They were both a jumble of emotions and thought—excitement, confusion, anticipation, and fear.
    ***
    Hoedspruit had grown since Marlena had last been there, with an added smattering of shops, art galleries, and bars and restaurants. But it was still reminiscent of the small towns so many Americans had once called home. Salem had never been this small or this remote, but something about the friendliness of the people reminded Marlena of the Midwest.
    Then she saw Kayla and felt completely at home.
    Kayla was standing outside the clinic with several young ebony girls when the Royal Londolani van drove in. She kissed each of the girls warmly on the cheek, and they trotted barefoot down the road before she headed for her friends.
    “Steve,” she called out excitedly. “They’re here!”
    They had not seen one another for nearly three years, and the foursome embraced each other warmly.
    “So great to see you guys,” Kayla said, breaking into her classic bright smile. She and Marlena hugged tightly.
    “So much has changed.” Marlena smiled. “Except the clinic,” she added, unaware of the reason why.
    “So this is it,” John said, nodding. “I’ve heard amazing things about the place.”
    “We’re a bit rustic at the moment, but we’re getting a complete overhaul in the next few months,” Kayla said with a hint of apology. “So the air conditioner’s a bit woofy. But come in, come in. And Bill doesn’t know you’re here.”
    Cornelius had been replacing meds in a locked cabinet and was startled when the four of them entered.
    “Cornelius, these are two of our dearest friends from home,” Kayla said enthusiastically. “Marlena Evans and John Black.”
    Cornelius quickly wiped his hands and extended one to John. “Very pleased to make your acquaintance,” he said.
    John shook his hand firmly.
    “Very nice to meet you,” Cornelius said, taking Marlena’s hand and tipping his head with a smile.
    “Bill about done back there?” Patch asked.
    “Just about,” Cornelius answered.
    “It is still blazing hot out there.” Kayla sighed. “Would you like some iced tea while we wait?”
    “Sounds good,” John said, smiling.
    “Four glasses comin’ up,” Patch offered as he moved to the counter.
    “Let me get ’em,” Cornelius insisted. “You talk with your friends.”
    While Cornelius took down the tumblers from the shelf and poured them each a drink, Kayla studied Marlena.
    “Want to tell me what’s going on?” she asked.
    Marlena and John exchanged glances.
    “What, are you psychic now?” John questioned, raising his