Subj: A Return to the Shadows part 24
Date: 4/29/01 8:45:02 PM Central Daylight Time
From: KimD
Nighttime had fallen. Helen crept around the darkened hallways of Collinwood,
making sure that everyone was inside. Elizabeth was in her room. David was in
his room with Victoria. Roger was in the drawing room, quietly enjoying a brandy.
Julia was on the telephone with Elliot Stokes. They wanted to get rid of her,
and they thought she didn't know what they were doing. Wait 'till they find
out what's coming. Helen hid in the next room. She picked up a receiver and
heard Julia say, "I convened Elizabeth to let us conduct the ceremony."
"That's great news," Elliot answered relief evident in his voice. "I was afraid
that she's say no."
"She almost did. She wanted to know what we were going to do. I wasn't sure
what I should tell her."
"I'll contact Maggie, and start instructing her on the ceremony to be preformed."
He paused, then continued, his voice taking on a note of concern. "Julia, maybe
you should stay with me until this is all over. You'd be safer here."
"Thank you for the offer, but I imagine your hotel room barely has enough room
for you, without me there."
"I'm not staying at the Collisnport inn, it really doesn't have enough room
for all my books, and belongs. I rented an apartment."
"I really can't leave Collinwood right now. I'll be needed, especially after
Carolyn come home from the hospital." They said their good-byes and Julia hung
up the phone regretting that she couldn't take up Elliot's offer.
Helen heard Julia's footsteps as she left the room and walked down the hallway.
She waited several moments, then picked up the phone, and redialed Elliot's
number. When Elliot answered she lowered her voice to match Julia's. "Elliot
it's Julia again."
"Is something wrong?"
"Yes, I just saw Helen outside in the hallway. I think she suspects something."
"Did she say something?"
"No, it was the way she looked at me. Would you mind coming over?"
"No, of course not. Give me a few minutes. I'll be over as soon as I can." Helen
hung up the phone and smiled as she left the room.