The Crossing Trilogy: The Complete Series

THE CROSSING TRILOGY

The Complete Series

JUNE V. BOURGO

CONTENTS

Magnolia Tree

Acknowledgments

Prologue

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

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chameleon Games

Acknowledgments

Part I

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

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Part II

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chapter 43

Chapter 44

Chapter 45

Chapter 46

Chapter 47

Chapter 48

Chapter 49

Chapter 50

Epilogue

Storm Dreamer

Acknowledgments

Part I

Prologue

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

Part II

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Part III

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chapter 43

Chapter 44

Chapter 45

Chapter 46

Chapter 47

About the Author

Copyright (C) 2023 June V. Bourgo

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.

MAGNOLIA TREE

THE CROSSING TRILOGY BOOK 1

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I wrote this book for all the believers in magic. We live in a world that can, at times, confuse, disappoint, and leave us fearful. But there is always the magic—as you, the reader, perceive it to be: albeit through spiritual belief, science, religion, or simple instinct.

As always, I thank Anne Marsh and Heidi Frank, my creative and grammatical readers, who carry me though the initial trials of writing a story. They address my doubts and insecurities in my ability to create a new project.

I am ever grateful for the support from my husband, Dennis, whose creative input and personal support never waivers.

A big thank you to my Next Chapter Publishing family, who work hard to make my story the best that it can be.

A heartfelt thank-you to Annie Kagan, Author of The Afterlife of Billy Fingers (aka William Cohen) for allowing me to quote her brother's words at the beginning of this book.

And to Billy Fingers aka William Cohen, for his ethereal testament to the magic. Thank you for sharing your experience with your sister, who in turn has shared your words with the world.

Where I am I see the light

In you as well as in me

Billy Fingers aka William Cohen

(from The Afterlife of Billy Fingers by Annie Kagan)

For all the believers…

Never forget the magic

PROLOGUE

September 21, 2000…

Elizabeth Grey awoke with a start. Her eyes popped open. A feeling of dread passed through her. She glanced to her left and noted her husband's absence from their bed. The LED digits on the alarm clock read eight a.m. Elizabeth sat up and stretched. She shook off her unrest. Must have been a dream I don't remember. She padded to the bathroom, washed her face and hands, put her housecoat on over her nightgown and entered the hallway. A voice could be heard coming from her granddaughter's bedroom. She stopped at the doorway and leaned on the frame.

Four-year-old Sydney sat on the floor with her tea set spread in front of her. Would you like some sugar in your tea?

Elizabeth smiled. Sydney had an imaginary friend. Elizabeth wasn't worried about it. A lot of children have them, especially when they have no siblings and live rural without other kids to play with. It's just a part of her development. Frank, her husband, on the other hand, thought it was weird and believed Sydney had issues. An opinionated man who once he held a belief could not be shifted, she was tired of arguing the point. Elizabeth sighed.

Sydney looked up. Hi Nana, my friend, Candy, is having tea with me.

Good morning, hon. Say hi to her for me.

She's not very happy today. She looks very sad.

I'm sorry to hear that. Maybe your tea party will cheer her up. What would you like for breakfast this morning?

Sydney looked at her invisible friend. Hmm…what should I eat today? What about pancakes? She looked at her Nana. Yup, Candy is smiling.

Pancakes it is after I have my coffee. I'll call up when it's ready.

Elizabeth descended the stairs and went into the kitchen. The aroma of a full pot of coffee beckoned. She poured herself a cup and looked out the back window towards the barn and equipment building. Both doors were closed. Frank's probably out for his walk. Elizabeth padded to the front door to claim the swing and enjoy her coffee on this beautiful warm morning.

She stepped onto the verandah and came to a cold stop. With a sharp intake of breath, her free hand flew to her chest and she gasped Omigod… The full cup of coffee in the other hand hit the floor. Splintered shards of porcelain scattered across the porch while hot coffee splashed up over her white floppy slippers.

Omigod… she gasped.

Frank lay face down on the wooden floor. Elizabeth kneeled beside him. Frank? Frank… She shook his shoulder. No response. She tried to push him over onto his back but only managed to get him half on his side. Frank's eyes stared back at her, glazed and lifeless. Her hands covered her mouth. No, no, she whispered. Elizabeth put her fingers to his neck. No pulse. Her hand moved to his chest. No heartbeat. His body was feeling cold to the touch. How long has he been laying here? Elizabeth knew he was dead. There was nothing she or anyone else could do for her husband. A state of shock froze her body to the spot.

She had no idea how long she kneeled there staring at her deceased husband. She stood and went inside. After making a call to the police, Elizabeth called her friend and neighbour, Carol.

Five minutes later, Carol walked Sydney out the backdoor on an adventure through the meadows, to end at Carol's house for pancakes.

Elizabeth returned to the porch and swept up the broken cup pieces. She placed a pillow under Frank's head and covered him with a blanket. He appeared to be sleeping. A silly gesture to be sure, yet a comforting one. She sat on the porch swing. There were no hysterics, no tears. Only a numbing acceptance…and she waited.

1

Seventeen years later…

The old two-story farmhouse with boarded windows, peeling paint and overgrown gardens appeared nothing like the house she remembered from her childhood. Sydney Grey stood on the gravel sidewalk that led to the sagging steps attached to a porch covered with leaves, dirt and broken tree branches. Her eyes scanned the windows on the second floor, resting on one window in particular. My bedroom. Her mind filled with childhood memories of swimming in the small lake behind the house and playing hide and seek in the grove of magnolia trees. She loved the smell of the magnolia flowers; a heady, intoxicating scent with a touch of cherry, lemons, and a hint of vanilla.

An uneasiness that started in the pit of her stomach and pushed its way through her body made Sydney frown. She had no idea why. Feelings such as these plagued Sydney her whole life. Usually, they occurred before something happened. She shrugged it off. That's because she didn't yet know that she used to talk to a dead person.

A quick perusal of the roof over the porch and the house showed curled shingles and a few missing tiles. Sydney blew a wisp of blond hair out of her eyes. Shit, she murmured. A new roof needed for both. She opened the notebook in her hand and wrote some notes. The windows were intact on the second floor. Regardless, they were slotted to be replaced with a row of picture windows, along with the intent of turning the whole top floor into one open studio. She stepped onto the porch. At least the floor's intact. The suspended swing she'd loved to sit on in the cool of the evenings hung lopsided, one of the chains broken. She leaned against the porch posts. Solid.

The interior of the house was in better shape. However, the air inside was hot and stale. She left the door ajar and opened each window as she wandered throughout the rooms. The carpets were frayed which mattered not. There was wood underneath and a good sanding and staining would bring them up nicely. She took in the yellowed linoleum on the bathroom and kitchen floors. Gone—a complete renovation for both rooms. Her eyes perused the kitchen, resting on an old-fashioned pantry room with a broken door. The pantry stays.

There were three bedrooms on the main floor. The largest would be her room and her office. She envisioned an electric fireplace with an armchair, with lots of room to add an En suite. Sydney stood at one of the bay windows and took in the grove of magnolia trees spread out to the left of the lake. She smiled at the small dock leading into the lake, remembering the swimming lessons her grandmother started before she could even walk. Nan called me her water baby. The second bedroom would serve as her Nan's whenever she came to visit and the third as a guest bedroom. Easy upgrade for them.

Moving back to the living room, she took in the fireplace set into one whole wall of inlaid stone. If the chimney proved certifiable, a glass front pellet stove insert would be appropriate since she loved the beautiful stone wall. A door slammed upstairs. Sydney's head shot up. Uh… Probably a gust of wind from the open windows down here. Still, it gave her a start.

The natural wood door jams would stay. Love those. She noted the wooden staircase and railing to the upstairs would be beautiful with a sanding and rich stain.

The upstairs housed a storage room and two more bedrooms. Wandering into the one that had been her bedroom, Sydney envisioned removing the inner walls to join the bedrooms and hallway as one open yoga studio for her clients. Pillars could replace the one load bearing wall. She opened a door in the hallway and walked into a storage room. Perfect size for a two-piece bathroom for clients. A wooden stool stood in the corner. She glanced up at the ceiling, noting the trap door to the attic. Memories of her grandfather standing on the stool and pulling down the door panel flooded her mind. A set of wooden steps pulled down for access. She smiled, remembering that she'd been too short to stand on the stool and pull the door panel down and longed for the day when she'd be tall enough to explore the secrets of the attic room above. If she hadn't moved to the city with her Nan, it may have become another hiding place.

The sound of a vehicle drew her out of the room and back to the bedroom window. She looked down expecting to see the contractor who was coming to inspect the house. A tall, thin woman got out, wearing a ball cap, her long dark hair in a braid down her back. Sydney headed downstairs to the veranda.

She stepped through the doorway onto the porch and met the woman at the top of the steps. Hi, can I help you?

The stranger looked her up and down. Syd? Is that you?

Sydney tilted her head. Only her friends called her Syd. Her grandmother refused to because it made her sound like a man. To her Nan, Sydney was bad enough but that was her birth name. My Nan's old-fashioned that way.

I'm sorry. Should I know you?

The woman laughed and reached out her arms. It's me, Jessie.

Recognition came instantly. Omigod … Jessie?

The two women embraced. I can't believe it's you, Sydney said. The two had met in pre-school. During kindergarten, her grandfather passed. She and her grandmother moved to Kelowna when the school year finished. The girls had only seen each other a few times over the years and lost touch in high school. At twenty-one they'd both changed considerably from their last visit as tweeners.

Jessie pushed her back. I love that hair style. You look gorgeous. Sydney's straight blonde hair hung in a layered bob a couple of inches below her chin, parted in the middle with long wispy side bangs she was forever blowing out of her eyes. It makes your blue eyes pop.

Thanks. You look wonderful. Sydney took in her height. So tall. You could be a model.

Jessie pulled a face. No thanks. I like the quiet life in our little town.

I guess it still has a small-town flavour but it's grown so much since I lived here. How'd you know I was here? Sydney asked.

Mom lives next door to your possible contractor. He mentioned a family member had returned to the farm. I thought I'd check it out, hoping it was you.

Yes, Rhyder Contracting. I'm waiting for someone to meet me here this morning to go through the house.

Awesome. They really are the best contractors around.

As if on cue, a white van with Rhyder Contracting graphics pulled off of the quiet road into the dirt driveway. The two women walked down the steps to greet the young man who exited the driver's door. Sydney took in his strong, slim build, white fitted t-shirt, and tailored blue jeans with well-worm cowboy boots. Whoa! If all the country boys around here look like this one…

Jessie spoke first. Hey, ghost. Haven't seen you for awhile. How's it going?

Hi, stranger. I was working on a big job out of town but Dad's been away for a couple of weeks. I left the foreman in charge and came back to run the office. It's good to be home. His gaze turned to Sydney. He gave her an obvious up and down stare. I'm looking for Sydney Grey.

Their eyes locked and Sydney felt drawn into his expressive blue eyes. She stood frozen to the spot. The young man tilted his head with raised eyebrows, waiting for her to respond. Breaking out of her stupor, she rushed forward a little too quickly and almost stumbled. She extended her hand. Uh … that's me. I'm Sydney Grey. What a dork I am.

I'm Jax Rhyder, Rhyder Contracting He gave her a wide smile and shook her hand. He held it a little longer than usual, his eyes searching her face.

She pulled her hand away. Hmm…seems a little sure of himself. Nice to meet you. I'm really excited to see what you have to say about the renos.

Jax took in the old building. Me too. I love refurbishing old farmhouses. It's my passion. Hopefully, we can come together and make it work.

Jessie cleared her throat. Well, I should take off and let you get to work.

As the pair turned and looked at her, Jessie laughed. Wow—look at you two. Don't you make the cutest couple?

Sydney's mouth dropped open and her eyes got big. She mouthed the word What? She gave Jax a sideways glance. He laughed and his eyes held a glint of amusement.

Jessie snickered and shrugged. 'I mean, you're both blue-eyed blonds with that same Keith Urban hair style thing going on. You made me think of those couples that look alike."

Jax laughed. Same old Jessie. You always were blunt in school. First thing that comes to mind, first thing out of your mouth.

That's me. So Syd, why don't we meet for dinner tonight at Carl's Steakhouse and we'll fill each other in on our lives. It's on Third Street.

I'd love to. How about seven o'clock?

Great. See you then.

2

Sydney and Jax watched Jessie walk to her car and drive off. She turned to Jax who was grinning at her.

Do you know Jessie well? He asked.

Not entirely. We were best friends at ages four and five before I moved to Kelowna. We exchanged letters for a few years and had some visits but eventually lost contact. It'll be great to get to know her again.

She's good people. You can't go wrong with her as a friend.

That's good to know. So…do you want to start out here or inside?

Let's start out here with the foundation.

For the next two hours Jax crawled under the house and inspected an equipment building on the property. Inside the house, he searched through cupboards, studied ceilings and pulled up carpeting to inspect the wood floor beneath. They talked flooring, appliances, windows, doors and roofing. On the second floor, he asked to see the attic.

Sydney led him into the storage cupboard. After they discussed a proposed two-piece bathroom, she stood on the stool and opened the attic door. I'm coming up with you. This is exciting for me. Ever since I was little, I've wanted to explore the attic. As she pulled the stairs down, a cloud of dust and spider webs came with them. She sneezed.

Jax reached up and helped her pull the stairs into place and locked the keepers for stability. He started up first. Half-way up the stairs, he looked down. There are probably more than a few spiders up here.

Sydney followed behind him with determination. I like spiders. They eat the bad bugs.

He grinned down at her. Gutsy lady. I like that.

I'm not a girly girl if that's what you mean.

There wasn't much to see. A dusty empty room. Since there was no power at the farmhouse as yet, the small oval window cast a dim light throughout. She laughed. I don't know what my grandparents kept up here, but this is a disappointment. Back then, my curious five-year-old mind conjured up all kinds of mysterious images.

Jax laughed with her. Do you have any plans for the attic?

No. I have no intention of hauling things up here for storage. She thought about the back door downstairs that entered the mud room off the kitchen. They'd already discussed sharing it as a laundry room. I was thinking about the mudroom/laundry room and how big it is. Perhaps we could incorporate some built in cupboards and shelving for storage.

That's a great idea. And what I'd suggest for the attic is to change the window into an air vent. These old farmhouses lack adequate venting. There's a new system that is solar powered that comes highly recommended for controlling heat build-up, moisture and ventilation. An easy install with the new roof. We'll upgrade the insulation up here. Another inadequacy of old farmhouses.

Okay.

I think we're done. Let's go back downstairs and go over my notes.

They left the attic to sit outside on the steps.

Jax looked over the pages on his clipboard. I really think we can do something here. The foundation is solid and the roof structure appears sound. We'll shore up the squeaky floor boards or replace them. You're catching the roofing just in time. Another season and you'd probably have some leaks. I'm surprised at the overall condition, considering no one has lived here for a number of years.

My grandmother rented it out for a long time to a family that worked the hay fields. Nan paid the husband to maintain the farm. When he became ill and died, his widow took the kids and moved closer to family. The farmer across the road leases the hay fields and keeps an eye on the place. It was always Nan's intention to give me the farmhouse and she didn't want it to become ramshackle.

She's been lucky not to have squatters or vandals. Jax stood and stretched his back.

Sydney joined him. We were lucky I guess. But with the neighbour working the fields, there's probably too much activity on the property. And this road isn't as remote as it used to be.

Fifteen years ago, this area was rural. But the town has grown so much you're now at the edge of town. So—how about you meet me here day after tomorrow? Ten o'clock? I'll have a quote ready for you.

Sydney nodded. I'll be here.

You have some great ideas for this old place. Some retro and some modern touches. It'll be fun to make them blend. Meanwhile, I'll do some sketches for the laundry/storage room, the bathrooms, as well as the kitchen where there's lots of room to expand cupboards and put in an island.

I can't wait to see them. She walked him to his truck.

Jax leaned across the driver's seat and pulled out a box. He placed it into her arms. Here you go. Something to keep you busy until then. Some paint samples, indoors and out, a ring of coloured tin roof samples for that tin roof you want, and more rings of wood flooring stains and tile samples.

Sydney's heart began to race. She smiled up at him. Oooh…this looks like fun. I'm so excited. Thank you.

Jax beamed back at her. I really hope we get to work together. This place would be a dream job for me. He climbed into the van and started the engine. He turned and gave her a wink. And so would working with you. See you soon.

Sydney dismissed his flirtation and said goodbye. After he disappeared down the road she smiled. He was an awesome specimen of maleness but he knew it too. Women probably chased him. But this was business and she didn't want to cloud the arrangement. Romance was not on her current to-do list. She didn't need or want the complications.

Somehow, she knew they'd be working together. Rhyder Contracting came highly recommended to her by a number of people in town. It was known for fast, quality work. She'd been told they weren't cheap but you always got what you paid for. And she liked the ideas he'd thrown at her for the past two hours. They were like-minded in that respect.

Sydney took another stroll through the house, holding up tiles and paint samples. Earth tones with some dark muted colours and bold splashes of colour held a certain appeal and she couldn't wait to get started. As Sydney stood in the master bedroom working out colour schemes, she felt a sudden chill. She walked to the window and looked up to the sky. She crossed her arms across her body and rubbed her hands over the goose bumps on her arms. Strange. The sun is still shining bright and hot. Her eyes scanned the lake and grove of magnolia trees. One tree stood at the back of the grove apart from the others. Sydney watched the branches move in the wind, the leaves twisting and turning to the point that some of the flower petals floated down and landed under the tree. A memory flashed through her mind. She saw herself as a small child sitting on a lower branch hidden next to the trunk.

Sydney, where are you? It's time for your lessons. She held her body tight to the trunk and giggled. This was her favourite place to hide from her grandfather. Here she could talk to her imaginary friend as her Nan called her. But Sydney knew she was real. Here she felt safe. This was her happy place.

At this point, Sydney noticed that none of the other trees were blowing in the wind. They were still. Maybe it's one of those circular gusts and it only hit that lone tree. She looked beyond the grove to see if other trees were affected. Her eyes scanned the area but all she could see far into the distance were open hay fields. Sydney looked at the lone tree once again and the movement stopped. The tree was still. The room suddenly felt warm again and her goose bumps disappeared. Weird.

She locked up the house and got into her jeep. Driving back into town, her thoughts returned to the memory she'd envisioned. Imaginary friend? I'll have to ask Nan if I had one as a child.

3

Sydney hurried down the street to the steakhouse. I'm late. A couple coming out of the restaurant held the door for her. She smiled at them and said thank-you as she rushed past them into the entranceway colliding face first into the chest of another customer leaving. He grabbed her shoulders to steady her as she bounced back off-balance.

Sydney looked up into the face of a fortyish man with greying hair at the sides. I'm so sorry. I wasn't paying attention.

The man stared at her hard. He never uttered a word. She peered past him, noting that people were waiting behind him to exit the restaurant. Oops…we're blocking the doorway. Still nothing. He appeared rooted to the spot. Sydney side-stepped the man and mumbled her apologies again. She proceeded at a slower pace to the Maitre d' standing by a podium. A quick glance back shocked her. The man had re-entered the restaurant and stood a couple of feet away watching her, his expression blank.

The Maitre d' interrupted her thoughts. Can I help you, Miss?

Yes, I'm meeting someone here. Jessica Farrow?

Follow me, please.

Half-way to the table, she looked over her shoulder but the man had disappeared. That was creepy.

Syd. You made it.

Yes, sorry I'm late. Nan called me just as I was leaving wanting to know all about the renos.

No problem. I was late too and just sat down. It's a zoo here tonight.

It's rib night, the Maitre d' said. He handed them both a menu and cocktail list. We're always busy when we serve our rib specialty. Your waiter will be with you shortly.

The waiter arrived a few minutes later. They both decided on the ribs and a bottle of dry red wine. Once he returned with their wine and appetizers, Jessie held up her glass.

Here's to renewed friendships, she said.

Sydney tapped her glass against hers. Renewed friendships and new adventures.

So how did you make out with Jax today? Are you going with his company?

It went well. The farmhouse is structurally sound. That says a lot. He understood my vision and offered some great ideas. We're meeting in two days to go over his blueprints and costs. My senses tell me that he's the right person for the job.

I've seen his work on other homes. It's exceptional.

Sydney held her glass up this time. Here's to successful renos and my future home.

Jessie reciprocated and popped a nacho with melted cheese and salsa into her mouth. Between bites she threw another question at Sydney. Talking about homes, where are you staying in the meantime?

I've got a cabin at River Road Resorts on the Okanagan River—the south end.

I know the place. You could have stayed with me and saved some money.

That's kind of you but I'm fine. You know I've never lived alone before, always been with Nan. So this is a new thing for me.

The waiter brought their ribs. Enjoy your meal.

Wow. These taste amazing. I can see why the place is so busy, Sydney said.

Mmm…aren't they though? By the way, how is your Nan?

She's doing well.

Will she be moving back to the farm when it's ready?

No. Her life is in Kelowna now. She has her friends there and she's not ready to retire yet. She'll have her own room when she comes to visit but I don't think she'd come back full time. There are too many bad memories for her.

Jessie sat back and sipped her wine. I guess it wasn't the same for her after your mom disappeared… Her friend hesitated. I'm sorry. Should I have said that?

Sydney shook her head. It's okay. Really. I think that's part of it. Nan never talks about those days. Once in a while, when I was a kid, I'd ask some questions and she'd get guarded. My mother was her only child and I think when she left, Nan felt abandoned and betrayed. She said something to that effect once when I was about twelve. She harbours a lot of anger towards her daughter.

And you've never heard from her after all these years?

No, nothing. I stopped asking years ago. I don't remember my grandfather much. Except that he could be really strict and Nan was always quiet around him. My feeling is that they married young and she stayed with him out of duty. I don't think she loved him anymore.

Jessie pushed her plate back and poured them both the last of the wine. I can see why she wouldn't want to come back. So tell me, why did you move back? Jessie asked.

Well, Nan was holding onto the farm to leave me in her will. She saw it as a good investment that I could sell at a good price one day. She never thought of me wanting to return here. But I wasn't happy where I worked and decided to start my own business. And Kelowna was getting too big for me. I wanted to live more rural. I checked around the whole Okanagan Valley to see where my competition would be and where I thought I could make a go of it.

And you chose Stoney Creek?

I did. It showed the greatest growth potential in this part of the valley and I have no competition between Osoyoos and Okanagan Falls. Nan was shocked that I wanted to come back here. But my enthusiasm won her over. A few days later, she came in from work excited and handed me an envelope. It was the deed for the farm.

Oh wow.

I couldn't believe it. She said it would be mine when she was gone anyway and if I wanted to move back and renovate it as a home and business, I should have it now. She gave me the money she'd been saving from renting the hay fields for the renos. That means I can use my savings to set up the business. Her only request was that she wanted a bedroom that was hers so she could come and visit.

Jessie leaned forward. I'm really happy for you. Another toast. Here's to a successful business. They raised their wine glasses. And what is your business by the way?

I'm a Yoga instructor. I intend on gutting the upstairs and building an open studio. Next, I'm converting the equipment building into bedrooms and showers for guests who come for retreats. I'm also an Earthing instructor.

Her friend's eyebrows shot up. A what?

Sydney laughed. "Earthing. The short description is to connect to the earth's natural energy; the transfer of energy being a natural healer. The lake behind the house has a natural sandy bottom, perfect for water exercises in season and I intend on planting a patch of grass between the house and the lake for Earthing practices and meditation on the grass.

I love it. But good luck with the grass. In case you haven't noticed we live in a desert area.

The lake is formed from a natural underground artesian spring. There's plenty of water. So enough about me. Let's talk about you,

Jessie sighed. After high school, I moved to Vancouver and enrolled in nursing school. I got my LPN, Licensed Practical Nurse and stupidly got married far too young to a lab technician. We both worked out of the Vancouver General and it lasted about nine months. I decided to move back to Stoney Creek last year and I'm working at the hospital in Oliver.

The waiter came and took away their plates and returned with coffee.

Any boyfriends in your life? Sydney asked.

Nope, like you I'm living on my own for the first time and I'm happy. How about you? Any boyfriends?

No. I recently broke up with a really solid guy in Kelowna. He wanted to move forward in the relationship but something was missing. I couldn't make the leap based on nice, so I ended it.

Hey, now I have someone to go clubbing with. Most of my friends from school are living in the city or have babies.

Nan never remarried after Papa died and she's quite content with her life. She told me unless I want babies, don't bother.

They laughed. Sydney's gaze travelled around the room and into the lounge area with a bar and stools and some small tables for people who weren't eating meals. Her smile froze as she stared into the face of the same man she'd run into at the entranceway. His features were still rigid and his eyes unblinking.

She diverted her eyes back to Jessie. Hey, without making it obvious, take a look into the lounge. There's a man at the end of the bar. Tell me if you know who he is.

Jessie spun around in her chair and looked directly towards the lounge.

Omigod…you call that subtle? Sydney groaned.

What man? There's no one at the end of the bar.

Sydney looked past her friend. The seat was empty. Damn. He's gone again. I'd think he was a ghost if I hadn't physically run into him at the front door. She described the incident to Jessie.

It's creepy all right. But maybe he was just into you. You're a beautiful girl and a new face in town.

Fresh meat? You don't make points with a person by acting like a stalker. Besides, he's got to be in his forties. I'm twenty-one.

Jessie laughed. Huh…all the more appealing to some men.

The girls finished their coffee and Jessie insisted on paying the bill. She walked Sydney down the street to her car. They exchanged cell numbers with the promise of getting together soon.

Sydney drove across town to the river, checking behind her in the rear-view mirror to see if she was being followed. The strange man really unnerved her. Once in the cabin, she bolted the door, making sure the windows were closed and locked. Thank goodness for air conditioning. It wasn't until she'd closed all the curtains that she felt safe and relaxed.

4

Jax stretched out in the chair in front of his father's desk. So when did you get back?

Yesterday afternoon about fourish. I was up early and came in a couple of hours ago. You've done a great job looking after things while I was away. Good job, son.

Thanks. How did the trip go? Did you make a deal?

Wes Rhyder reached for some papers on his desk and smiled. You bet I did. He waved the sheets up and down. He'd been travelling through the Okanagan Valley looking at land development in the bigger cities. Not only will we be taking on a new bank building, we have an opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a new hospital. A state of the art project that will keep us pretty busy.

Jax grinned back at his father. He recognized that sparkle that lit up his father's face whenever a new development project arose. His father was an architect first and flourished in the design process long before construction starts.

We'll have to open a new office in Kelowna. Hire more staff. This means a big expansion for Rhyder Construction. This will bring us closer to my goal of turning us into a major land development company and moving solely into commercial projects.

I'm happy for you, Dad. You've worked hard to get this far. I have no doubt you'll get the company where you want it to be.

His father stretched his hands apart above his head. This requires a name change from Rhyder Construction to Rhyder & Son Developments. But for now, let's take a look at our current projects.

The two men spent the next hour going over their work load and projected finish dates. Wes picked up the last file. I see you've been working on a farmhouse renos. What's that about?

It's the old Grey farm on the edge of town.

His father's head shot up. The old widow finally sold the place then. Who are the new owners?

No new owners. A relative has moved back to the property from Kelowna. Her names Sydney Grey.

Wes leaned forward. The granddaughter?

That's right. Have you ever met her?

No. She and her grandmother left Stoney Creek a couple of years before we moved here. Wes sat back in his chair and rubbed his chin in thought.

Dad? I've lost you. What are you thinking?

Umm…we have a rather full plate at the moment. Perhaps we should pass on this one.

Jax shifted uncomfortably in his chair. You know these kinds of renos are right up my alley. I really want this job.

His father stared at him. I know they're your passion but we have to think about what's right for the business.

It wasn't the first time they'd had this discussion over projects that his Dad thought they shouldn't do. Jax always listened to his father and gave his words merit. In the end, he'd do what Wes Rhyder thought was best. But this time, he intended on fighting for it and wouldn't compromise.

Look, I'm pretty much finished with my project in OK Falls. The foreman is more than capable of bringing it to closure. The other projects are covered as well. I've got the time to work on this one.

Wes stared at the file in silence. Jax waited for him to speak first, determined not to give in. You know the growth of this company is taking us through a transition. We're moving away from residential work to commercial. That's the new vision that I see for the company. Perhaps it's time we discuss the role I'd like to see you play in this new direction.

Jax shifted uncomfortably. He knew this day was coming. He'd always avoided conflict but the moment had arrived to let his father know his true feelings about their work together. All right. Tell me about your vision.

His father leaned forward. We've built quite a reputation in the valley over the years. Since you joined me two years ago, I've left you to deal with the residential projects and I've moved into the commercial side. What I see is you taking over this office and moving strictly into commercial construction. For myself, I think it's time I moved to Kelowna and work with the land development and commercial endeavours there and eventually, within other major cities in the Okanagan.

Wow. Jax felt overwhelmed. That's quite a vote of confidence in a twenty-two year old.

You've proven yourself. You have a good work ethic and the ability to tackle problems with quick logic. I'm proud of you, son.

Jax felt torn. He didn't want to disappoint his father but his 'logic' told him he had to follow his own path, not the one his dad wanted for him. Dad, I'm really excited for you on this and I'm pleased you've been happy with my work. But the truth is your dream isn't my dream.

Wes Rhyder's face clouded over. I don't understand. I thought we had a plan for you to work with me and run the company together.

We did. But that was back a few years before you decided to expand and become a big developer. My passion lies in residential housing projects. Preferably renovations. I'm not really interested in commercial ventures. You know that.

There's no money in house renovations. At least not the kind we can make going commercial. I'm doing this for you, son. One day it will all be yours.

On no, don't lie that on me. Jax rose and paced in front of the desk. You did this for you and only you. And that's okay. But if it was for me, you would have asked for my input and what my dreams were.

His father stood and leaned on his desk; his face contorted in rage. I don't believe this. I thought you trusted my judgement and what's best for the company. This in turn, is what's best for you.

Jax sat back down in the chair. He knew this confrontation wouldn't be easy which is why he'd avoided it for months. Stay strong. If you believe it's best for the company, then it is. And that makes it best for you, Dad. But not necessarily for me. I have my own dreams.

Wes sat, leaned back in his chair and the two stared at each other, once again silent. Okay. Tell me what you see for you?

I'd hoped you would keep the residential division and let me run that. That's where my expertise and my interest lie. I'm not a building architect like you are. That's your skill and your passion.

I know that. I don't expect you to be an architect, just run the development projects. I trust your instincts and you've proven yourself as a 'boss'.

Jax rubbed his fingers against his forehead. When I was a kid, you always told me to be true to myself. You and granddad didn't see eye to eye when you told him your aspirations. Do you remember what it was like to stand up to his expectations and say no?

Hang on. Wes Rhyder stood and left the office. He returned with two cups of coffee. He placed one in front of Jax and returned to the chair behind his desk. After a few sips of the black liquid, he put it down.

I can't argue with anything you've said. My argument is that the company can't grow into commercial projects and stay diversified with residential projects. Running two offices and potentially more in the future can no longer support the residential aspect. So from purely a business perspective, we either stay where we are and forget the expansion, or move forward and leave the other behind.

And I get that. It's the right thing to do for the sake of the business and the direction you want to take it in. You have to do what is best for the business. Dad, you have a fire in your belly and you should go with it. What's left is to decide how I fit into it all. What you're offering me is enormous and believe me, I am appreciative. But housing is what lights the fire inside me.

Wes sighed. Don't get me wrong. You can make a living in residential. But you'll have some good years and bad years where you'll struggle. I've already done that, son. I wanted to spare you that and build on our existing business side-by-side.

Jax stared into his coffee cup, weighing his next words. I know you're disappointed. The answer for you is to follow your vision…without me if necessary. And I don't know where that leaves me but I'll figure it out. You say I have good instincts so let me trust in myself and follow my own path. And there's something else for you to consider. You have qualified people here in the office that have been with you for years. Don't you think they might resent me suddenly becoming their boss? They deserve what you're offering me a lot more than I do.

His father picked up the renos project file. Tell me about this project. What time schedule do you see on this?

Well, there's more than the farmhouse here. There's a conversion of the equipment building into a dorm for weekend retreats and a barn upgrade. I'd say two months tops.

Wes opened the file and glanced through. He smiled. You haven't done the quote yet but I can see this will be a lucrative project, regardless that it's renos. Here's what we'll do. You take this project on if the client agrees to your terms. Two months gives me time to get preliminary things worked out in Kelowna. Meanwhile, there's no reason to decide on anything right now. Let's both think on our conversation here today and we'll talk about this again down the road. Okay?

Jax let out a big sigh and beamed. Okay. And thank you.

Damn. Look at that excited expression on your face. You're too much like your old man, you know that.

A chip off the old block. You raised me. They both laughed.

Now get out of here, I've got a hundred calls to make.

Jax went to his own office and sat down at his drafting table. He hadn't been this excited about a renos project before. He set to work building a quote based on the blueprints he'd adapted the day before with his suggested changes. The thought of his future with his father's company was troublesome, but at least his Dad was listening to him. He pushed away negative thoughts and lost himself to his work.

5

Sydney leaned over the blueprints spread across the kitchen counter. I love your ideas for the kitchen and mud room. You've utilized the space well without the rooms appearing much smaller.

Here's the blueprint for upstairs. I've added something to the new bathroom up there, Jax said. See the storage room at the end of the hall, here. He placed a finger on the spot. Once we take the bedroom walls out, there's a bedroom closet on the other side. I'm thinking we should take it out, move the bathroom door entrance around to that side, widen it in the hallway to a larger bathroom and include a corner shower stall. You never know what future plans you might have for the upstairs down the road and you'll have a complete bathroom. The rest of that back wall in the hallway can house storage cupboards and shelving from the new bathroom wall to the stairwell. You can store all your yoga gear there.

Hmm…so that leaves the solid side-wall for full-length mirrors. I like it. You've really captured my vision for the house. Let's look at the equipment building next.

Okay, here I've made some changes yet again from what we discussed. I know you wanted six rooms with full private bathrooms for clients on weekend retreats. But the room isn't there to support that. And the town bylaws won't allow it. Because of space restrictions, your plan would only give you four rooms with partial bathrooms. My plan shows two shower rooms; one for men, one for women. Each room has two shower stalls with privacy doors and this counter has four sinks for wash-up. It saves a shit load of money and even leaves room at the end of the hallway for a laundry big enough to house a washer and dryer and a closet for linens. Each of the four bedrooms can house two single beds.

I guess wanting private baths was a bit fanciful. Sydney was a little disappointed. It's not Jax's fault that the building didn't hold up to my wants. I like the laundry room idea. Originally, I thought I'd bring the laundry into the house but that's a lot of wear and tear on the house appliances. But four rooms from six and four shower stalls total…I don't know.

Jax pulled another blueprint out from under the first. I thought you might have concerns about the shower traffic so I drew up another plan. How about this one instead. The new plan showed five bedrooms without partial bathrooms and added another stall to each shower room and three toilet stalls.

That could work. Nice. She paused. Done.

One last thing to cover. We never discussed the barn. I know it's leased out along with the hay fields beyond the lake. And your grandmother replaced the barn roof three years ago. But the exterior walls could use a paint job and maybe the odd board replacement. Do you want to include that in with the other renos?

Absolutely. It would be nice to colour co-ordinate all the buildings, she mused.

Sydney looked up at Jax and caught him smirking at her. What?

Careful, your girlie-girl is showing.

Come on. The barn is faded red, the house is green and brown, and the equipment building is white and grey. Pretty ugly, I'd say.

Jax threw his arms out. I'm teasing. That brings us to the paint samples and tiles etc.

They spent another hour discussing colours for walls, flooring, and trim. The barn roof was a charcoal grey tin. Sydney decided to match the other roofs and paint the exterior walls of all the buildings in a deep rich red called Autumn Maple Leaf with white trim.

I think we're done. I've got a quote here, which will change a few hundred here or there because of your choices.

Sydney studied the paper. That's fine. Draw up an invoice with the correct amount. I'll pay you the down payment amount now. When can you get started?

Jax beamed. My schedule has opened up. I'm dedicated to your property for the next two months. When I get back to the office, I'll put a team together and we'll begin tomorrow. Is that soon enough.

Absolutely. I'd like to move in as quickly as I can but I don't want to be in the way. Is it possible for me to live here at a certain point during remodelling?

"Well, I'd like to do the roofing first, on both buildings. Then, we'll shore up any soft spots in the foundations and replace any exterior wall boards. The exterior painting, trim and accessories can wait until last after you've moved in. We can do the house interior next. You should be able to move into the house in about four weeks; as long as you can stand the noise once we start converting the equipment building. We'll sub-contract the plumbing work and water connections.

That's awesome. I could start setting up the studio. And don't worry, I won't be hanging around anywhere getting in the way. She wrote Jax a cheque for the down payment and gave him keys to all the buildings.

They walked out the back door and down to the lake. Jax turned his back to the lake and studied the back yard and areas between the home, barn, and equipment building. There's lots of room back here to unload materials and still space available to work in. That's a real plus. He turned back to the lake.

A soft breeze carried the scent of the magnolia trees in full bloom. Sydney drew a deep breath. I love the smell of the magnolia flowers. They'll continue in flushes right into the fall.

You certainly have a beautiful spot here.

Thank you. I'm happy that I'll be in around the beginning of June so I can enjoy the three warmest seasons.

Sydney turned towards Jax and noticed he was staring at her. Their eyes locked. Jax broke the spell. Uh…well, I better get back to the office and set up my teams and order some supplies. If you want to meet me here tomorrow, I'll have the invoice updated for you.

I can do that and then I'll leave you to it for a few days. I'm heading to Kelowna to see my Nan and I'll be in and out of town for the next few weeks shopping for furniture and studio equipment. If you need me at all, you've got my cell number. Otherwise, I'll pop out in a few days to see how it's going.

Okay, see you tomorrow.

She watched him disappear around the corner of the house.

Sydney walked towards the magnolia grove and wandered through the trees. They needed a pruning. She made a mental note to look for a gardener to help her plan the maintenance and upgrades she wanted to put in place for the front and back grounds, as well as the beachfront to the lake.

The lone magnolia tree drew her to its base. Sitting out in the open by itself, it was a beautifully formed tree with nothing to interfere with its growth or steal from its nourishment. She walked around to the far side and stared across the hay fields. Soon it would be time for the first harvest. Another scent I love—fresh cut hay. Sydney turned to the tree and noticed a faint impression in the bark. She moved closer and ran her fingers over the imprint. The darkened letters had been carved into the tree many years before. C & C. My mother's name is Chelsea. Did she make these markings? But who's the other C?

A ruckus further up the tree caught her attention. She glanced up to see some yellow-breasted chats flying out of the branches amidst a series of caw notes and squawks. Something caught her attention peripherally and she turned her head in that direction.

Uh… she gasped, jumping backwards. Her heart pounded and her throat constricted. Her hands clutched at her chest. It all happened in seconds. A girl in her late teens sat on Sydney's favourite childhood branch. Sydney swallowed hard and snapped her eyes shut and open—the girl was gone.

She couldn't tear her eyes from the spot for several minutes as her brain processed what her eyes had seen. It makes no sense. Did I really see someone in the tree? She closed her eyes and tried to envision the image. She opened them quickly in case the girl had returned. No one there. How could I make it up? The girl had blue eyes and long hair—pink hair. That's right. Pink hair? Sydney picked up on the clusters of pink magnolia blooms within the tree and smiled. Perhaps it was only the flower clusters and a vivid imagination. Then, something else struck her. There was more than a face to what she saw.

Why did I see a girl in blue jeans, a white t-shirt and bare feet?

6

Elizabeth Grey returned the coffee pot to the counter stand and joined Sydney at the kitchen table. She sipped her coffee. Umm…a little strong. She got up and turned on the electric kettle.

Sydney laughed. Sorry, Nan. I forgot you drink your coffee black.

One day you young girls will regret drinking those fancy milk and sugar coffee concoctions. You're skinny now but once you've had babies or get into your forties, it all changes. She leaned back against the counter.

Sydney smiled at her Nan. She'd been hearing this argument for years. Sugar is the devil.

Her grandmother frowned. Don't give me that patronizing smile. For someone who's into yoga, spirituality, and 'our bodies are a temple'; I don't understand why you still drink those fancy drinks which are more crap than coffee.

You know I'm careful what I eat and put into my body. But my coffee is my one vice. I don't drink much alcohol or do drugs. My coffees are my way of relaxing and pampering myself.

Humph…they certainly don't relax me. A couple of those elaborate brews leave me jumping out of my skin. Having said her piece, her grandmother changed the subject. So, tell me about your shopping day.

I went to my old work and they sold me some of the older stock they were replacing. I got some pillows and mats that still have life left in them. And then, I ordered some bolsters, blocks, chairs and benches from the wholesaler in Vancouver. They're blowing out stock for their new summer line. They're holding onto my purchases until I've moved into the house.

That's wonderful, dear. What's next on your agenda?

Tomorrow, I'm going to an auction of that hotel that went into bankruptcy in Westbank. I'm hoping to get duvets and sheet sets for the residency.

The kettle whistled and her Nan topped up her coffee cup. She sat down opposite her again and took a sip. 'Ahh…just how I like it. It sounds like you're organized. You can store some things here you know. The spare room will hold them until you move in. Did your contractor give you a date?"

Sydney pushed back from the table and brought her feet up onto the chair next to her. Yes. Four to five weeks. The house interior will be finished and the roofing is being done now. I can work on setting up the studio and furnishing the house while they work on the equipment building and exteriors.

Her grandmother was studying her. What? Sydney asked.

I haven't seen you this happy for a long time. I'm happy for you.

Sydney reached forward and took a hold of her hand. I am happy. And I can't thank you enough for this.

I'm happy too. It's fun watching you do all this. If they're able to, I think more people should give family members their inheritance while they're still alive to share the joy it brings to them. It's something you and I can share without the grief of losing a loved one.

Sydney squeezed her Nan's hand. Talking about sharing, how do you want your bedroom decorated at the farm?

Which room is mine?

The room in the back of the house, at the end of the hallway, next to the bathroom. It has a bay window and looks out on the lake.

Elizabeth smiled. That's a nice room. What colours are you planning for the interior.?

Mostly neutrals; champagne, beiges, slate green, burgundy, and bold splashes of colours in accessories and furniture.

Hmm…neutrals are nice for my room. You know my favourite colour is green. All I need is a small dresser, and a bed. You can pick what you want for furniture and I trust you to pull it all together. Surprise me. All I ask is no abstracts.

Sydney laughed.

Her grandmother groaned. I know…abstracts are in and you love them. But if I'm going to sleep in a room that's my own, you know I like flowers.

Flowers it is.

When do you plan on opening your business?

"The contractors won't be done until the end of June, then I need a landscaper and I want a fence built across the front. I'm thinking the first of September. I need to do some pre-marketing before the doors