Wednesday morning woke Abby to a familiar sound. An Eastern towhee outside her bedroom window was singing non-stop. Birders described the bird’s song as sounding like the words, drink your tea. Abby listened and nodded in agreement before tuning to indoor sounds.
Not hearing anyone rattling around the house, she hopped out of bed. Curious, Abby opened her bedroom door and saw four notes taped to it. She smiled at Will’s. He’d drawn her a heart and frog. Aubrey had printed her words “Bye Aby” with a blue crayon. “So cute.” Bella’s note offered more details of morning shopping and wishing Abby an enjoyable day with Gita. Saving Nash’s for last, the message stated simply he hoped to see her that evening.
Glancing at her watch, she had a couple of free hours before meeting Gita. What did she want to do this morning? The idea of a swim in solitude presented. Abby’s happy mood accompanied her downstairs in search of breakfast.
Twenty minutes later, Abby found herself swimming the first lap. Even the pool’s water in Charm reflected shades of the rainbow. As she swam, Abby replayed her time in Charm. She’d experienced moments of feeling pure happiness and a sense of peace like never before. More and more, she was coming to appreciate why people chose to remain. Still, around that, awareness swirled questions in her head. Questions she’d been collecting for Gita.
Abby vowed to keep her growing attraction to Nash hidden away. She doubted even Gita could offer a rational explanation for how she could develop feelings for him in mere days. She’d never felt any intense connection with Edward or any other man. “Enough of this mind messing. Face it. You can’t apply rational thought to anything going on in Charm,” Abby murmured to herself. Positioned on the flowered daisy float, she let the clouds changing shapes distract her for the next tranquil hour.
~*~
As punctual as a morning rooster’s call, Gita appeared at Hidden Haven’s front door waving two straw hats with colorful ribbons. Abby noted her guide was impeccably dressed in cream linen slacks and an apricot-colored silk blouse. A dainty gold pocket watch hung from a long chain around her slender neck. Effortless style clung to Gita, surmised Abby.
“Good morning, dear girl. I hope you’re as eager as I am about our Charm outing.”
Excitement tinged Abby’s voice. “I am, Gita. In fact, I’ve been watching the clock like a spelling bee’s designated timer. What’s with those fancy hats?”
“You’ll need a hat to keep the sun at bay. Tell me which color appeals to you, yellow or orange?”
“How thoughtful of you. Hmm, I think the yellow one. It matches my crop pants and floral top. Anyway, the orange works perfectly with your outfit.” Abby plopped the hat atop her head and slung her handbag over her shoulder. “Guess I’m ready.”
Gita led them down the sidewalk to her sedan. Once inside, she turned to Abby. “This morning, I thought you might enjoy rambling around the village. I’ve little doubt you’ll find our Charm intriguing. And that feeling usually generates all manner of questions, which I’ll endeavor to answer.” Gita started the engine and drove out to the main road.
Abby placed the hat in her lap. “Thank you for taking me under your wing. I’ll endeavor not to pepper you with too many questions. Be warned. I’m one of those who seek understanding by applying logic.”
Gita patted Abby’s hand. “I expect you’ll find that method challenging here, but we’ll do our best. Won’t we, dear?”
Abby’s face brightened. “Yes, we will.”
Looking out the window, she noticed something different. Side roads were scattered along the main highway.
Gita glanced over at her new student. “Might as well start with that question.”
Abby shook her head in disbelief. “Okay, I’m going to skip past the question of how you picked up my thought. I totally don’t get why I see roads that didn’t exist when I was in the loop Monday.” Abby pointed out the window. “Like that one.”
Gita gave a chuckle. “I guess your logic is about to get tossed out that window. The simplest answer is roads appear when they’re needed.” Gita slowed as a vehicle entered the highway. “For example, that’s the Averys leaving for their clothing boutique in the village.” Gita took a read on Abby. “I’ve mystified you, and in our first few minutes.”
Abby stared at the Avery’s dark blue minivan traveling ahead. “Mystified is an excellent word to describe my state of mind. I’m not grasping your meaning. Can you please elaborate?”
Gita nodded. “Let me begin by saying Charm follows a unique set of laws that at first blush appear confoundingly odd to all newcomers. You see, the village functions harmoniously, but in ways I’m sure would confuse Einstein.”
Abby broke into laughter. “Now, that’s funny.”
“And true,” Gita added, smiling. “In a matter of days, you’ve become one of my favorite questers. I do so enjoy being in your company, Abby. You’re such a remarkable young woman. Shall we continue?”
“Thank you for the compliments. I’m a quester, huh?” Abby angled her head, pondering the label.
“Most certainly. We’ll delve into quester specifics another time. Today we’re focused on a broader scope—how our village functions. It’s imperative you grasp those points. Then later, you may apply the teachings to your quest. Does that make sense?” Gita braked at a tight curve.
“That part I got. First, we’re telescoping out to the day-to-day operations of Charm. I assume my questions should primarily focus on that subject to keep continuity.” Abby’s cogent mind found this tact acceptable and logical. As a scientist, she usually felt comfortable in uncharted waters, but Charm’s waters were a whole other story.
“Yes, it’s helpful to stay focused on today’s purpose.” Gita’s voice was warm with appreciation.
“Of course, I’m goal oriented. Maybe too much, according to my peers. I digress. Please continue the introduction,” answered Abby.
“Excellent. Are you interested in hearing what we’ve gleaned about Charm’s origin, or do you prefer we work in the present day? There’s no such thing here as a wrong answer.” Gita opened the storage box in her console and pulled out a sack of wrapped hard candies. “Help yourself.”
“Thanks.” Abby opened the bag. “I want to know anything and everything unless you think there’s not enough time before I leave? Whatever you think. I leave it to you.” Abby chose a piece of rainbow-colored candy.
“Let’s start with today’s workings, and we can always backtrack later.” Gita glanced at the mint. “Excellent choice. I didn’t know there were any Prisms left.”
Abby unwrapped the candy. “These are called Prisms? Why?”
“Because they enliven your body with the seven colors. The land of Charm thrives because of color. It’s the source of our energy. Shall we leave it there? I find this material too weighty for this day,” said Gita. “Tell me what your eyes are telling your mind.”
“You’re wise and perceptive. Okay, to answer your question, I swear it feels like I’ve time-traveled to a place where things look similar to home, but they’re not. I should sit here and enjoy feeding my baffled self this special candy and listen to you.” Abby glanced over, relieved to see Gita’s amusement.
“That’s a good girl.” Gita dropped her car’s speed as she entered the village. “So, continuing, a Charm life is an easy life. For example, we’re spared distractions of the screens and the havoc they wreak on…well, on everything.”
Abby observed the town’s bustling out her window. “Screens? You mean technology things, like computers, cell phones, and social media?”
“Exactly. Here we are. Help me find a parking place.” Gita scanned the parking area. “It’s always humming in the mornings with the coffee drinkers.”
“How about that place by…,” Abby squinted at the sign, “The Wisteria Boutique?”
“Perfect. That’s the first shop I’d planned to introduce you to.” Gita pulled into the slot.
“Of course it is. I wouldn’t expect anything else from you and Charm.” Abby hopped out of the sedan. From the corner of her eye, she saw Bob and Bill waving. “Good morning, B’s,” she hollered. Her confusing but genuine affection for Charm and its residents was doubling in intensity by the hour. By next week, she’d want to buy a home, do more forest bathing, and find—what? Gita’s words brought her back.
“Ready to experience shopping the Charm way? I expect you need a few things, so this precious shop topped my list.” Gita pointed at Wisteria Boutique, waiting a few feet away.
“Nash would disagree. When he unloaded my vehicle, he declared I brought the world with me. Still, I could go for a few more casual pieces to wear and avoid doing laundry before I go home.” Abby paused at Wisteria’s display window. “Such cute outfits. My shopping willpower is being tested before I set foot inside.”
Gita laughed and held open the door. “I predict you’re going to delight in this first Charm shopping experience.”
A middle-aged woman rushed over to greet the ladies. She wore a friendly face and a simple black A-line dress with matching flats. A strand of pearls signaled her classic style. “Good morning, Gita. How lovely to begin my day with a visit from you. Please introduce me to this pretty young lady.”
“I’d love to. Lillian Avery, I’d like for you to meet Abby Drake.”
Lillian smiled in answer. “Welcome to Wisteria Boutique, Abby. Did you recently find us?”
“Thank you. Yes, I arrived Monday. I feel fortunate to have already met nice people, like Gita.” Abby remembered Gita talking about the Averys moments ago. She glanced around at the eclectic fashion designs and fell in love.
“How fortunate you are to know Gita. She’s a Charm treasure.”
“You’re too kind,” said Gita.
“Not at all, my friend.” Lillian turned to a display. She held up a gauzy floral sundress. “Doesn’t this new piece define a summer day?”
“It certainly does.” Abby touched the fabric.
Lillian hung the dress on the rack. “Have you brought Abby to select outfits?”
Gita nodded. “Yes, Abby wants to do a bit of fill-in shopping.”
“Wonderful. I’m sure we can find a few garments that will speak to you, Abby.”
“A few?” Abby shook her head. “I adore your shop and want everything in that display window.”
Lillian looked momentarily confused. “Very well, if that’s what you—”
Gita touched Lillian’s arm. “No, my dear, that was meant as a compliment to your clothing designs. Am I correct, Abby?”
“She’s absolutely correct.” Abby laughed. “I could never afford to purchase all of those darling outfits without a second job.”
“But….” Lillian’s facial expression changed. “Yes, I see now.”
“Yes.” Gita dipped her chin, sending a subtle signal to Lillian.
Abby noticed the odd exchange and chalked it up to more peculiar ways of Charm.
Lillian busied herself straightening a stack of summer cotton tees. “Why don’t you look around? The fitting room is in the far-left corner. I’m going to scoot to the stockroom. We had a shipment arrive, and I left my husband to unpack. He’s not the best with draping garments properly on hangers. The shoulder creasing, you know?”
“Thank you. We shall do that very thing.” Gita strolled to a rack of scarves.
“Before you leave, can you point me toward jeans?” Abby craned her neck, glancing around the shop.
Lillian touched Abby’s arm. “Instead, would you permit me to show you something else? I believe it will suit your personality and shape to perfection.”
“Yes, please. I confess that I’m lousy at styling.” Abby gave a shrug.
“Wonderful! I shall assist you in discovering Abby fashion. Follow me.” Lillian halted, pulling a pair of khaki overalls from a rack. “You simply must try these on. Your figure is meant to wear them. Everyone needs a signature look in Charm. Take this darling shirt too.”
Abby held up both hangers, admiring the casual, quirky style. “Really? You think overalls and this daisy knit shirt reflect my new look?” She felt surprised and happy contemplating the ensemble.
“My, yes. They capture your essence to perfection. Try them on and see how you feel.” Lillian reached for light blue denim overalls and a printed sunflower top and handed them to Abby. “Gita, don’t you agree this style is an ideal match for her? She needs flowers around her.”
“I certainly do.” Gita came alongside, smiling. “Lillian’s correct. Find your Charm style.” Gita waved three autumn-colored scarves. “Scarves and antique hair clips define my fashion flair.”
“Okay, okay, you’ve convinced me.” Abby giggled. “I’ll take the denim ones to try on too. Me in overalls? I never saw this coming. Flower tees I get.”
“You’re precious. I’ve no doubt Charm is about to become smitten with you, Abby. Happy shopping, ladies.” Lillian went to lay the scarves Gita had selected at the checkout counter before sauntering to the back room.
“Would you like me to take these clothes into the fitting room?” Gita held out her hand.
“That’s so nice. Thank you, Gita. I’m still on a mission to find a pair of jeans.”
Abby walked around the boutique, coming up empty-handed. Where were the blasted jeans? She passed by Gita trying on a chain belt. Abby grabbed a few of the folded summer solid-colored cotton shirts.
“Those will work nicely with the overalls.” Gita touched the fabric. “That’s soft cotton too.”
“I agree. The quality of Lillian’s garments is fantastic. I’m not used to finding this nowadays. Speaking of finding, blue jeans are MIA.” Abby’s eyes scanned the boutique once more. “Not a single pair.”
“Hmm, I guess it’s time to chat about acquiring one’s needs in Charm. You may also recall that we don’t use money. Let’s go sit in those comfy chairs by the fitting room. Then, you can try on those overalls.” Gita glided over to the velvet lilac chair.
Abby joined her mentor, anxious to learn what made shopping a unique experience in the village. “Answer this question first. If we don’t use money, tell me why Elbert accepted my money for the sorbet.”
“That’s easy. He didn’t want to upset you since you’d just arrived.” Gita smiled easily.
“Smart move on his part.” Abby moved on. “So, how do I purchase things if I don’t use money? Does Charm exchange trinkets or something?” She depended on her sense of humor to process what was coming.
Gita’s expression shone amusement. “No trinkets needed, and I’ll soon elaborate on that subject. First, I can help you best by sharing my story. For it’s the one I’m an authority on.”
Abby crossed her legs and withheld a response. She didn’t dare delay Gita’s story with more of her incessant questions. Abby ignored her mind’s chatter.
“When I arrived in Charm, I was what I’d call affected.” Gita gazed around the shop. “Yes, sitting in Wisteria with you provides the perfect backdrop for sharing one of my character flaws. With the deepest regret, I confess to wearing only the most stylish garments by French designers. You see, my dear, I felt clothes defined me. Of course, that wasn’t true. I came to understand that illusion was created by me. In short order, I found my wardrobe wasn’t befitting of Charm.” Gita’s expression relaxed at her choice of words.
Abby held up her hand. “So, you couldn’t wear those fancy French designers any longer?”
“Yes, Wisteria Boutique had my favorite styles here. I could have worn them, but someone guided me to choose another style to better complement who I was to become in Charm. By shedding those outer garments of pretentiousness, it helped me discern my gifts and life’s purpose.”
Abby sat back, absorbing the significance of Gita’s words. Stuffy, dark blazers and skirts with a white lab coat represented her weekday ensemble in Crestview. Being in Charm, somehow, the overalls and floral tops called to her fun side. The side she’d ignored far too long. Abby turned her focus outward to Gita. “What a meaningful lesson. It’s like shedding old skin for one that fits even better. Some of what you said found a home in me. I can identify.”
Gita clapped her hands. “It’s a worthy lesson. Perhaps those overalls will help define who you’re to become in Charm. Go try them on. Then come out and introduce me to the Abby Drake wearing them. I’m anxious to meet her.”
Abby bobbed her head in agreement. “Okay, back in a flash.”
She disappeared into the fitting room, realizing it looked nothing like the war zones she’d frequented over the last years. Absent were the blah-colored walls, unflattering lighting, and mirrors that made her appear as if she belonged in a circus sideshow. Present were walls painted an iridescent pale green, light sconces with rainbow-colored globes, and a mirror reflecting a glow to her face.
Within moments, a changed Abby stepped out wearing the overalls and daisy shirt. “Ta-da,” she twirled around for Gita and Lillian, who’d returned.
“Isn’t she darling?” Lillian clasped her hands to her chest.
Gita nodded. “Who’s this Abby standing before me? I don’t quite recognize her.”
Abby lingered, allowing the truth to unfold. “I’m Abby, newly arrived in Charm, dressed for days of fun and…digging. Yes, lots of digging and planting.” She tugged on the overall’s strap for effect.
“Sounds like this young woman knows herself pretty well.” Lillian snagged a bucket hat with matching daisies and handed it to Abby. “To protect that pretty face from too much of the sun’s loving rays.”
“Thank you, Lillian. I love it.” Abby regarded a seated Gita. “Did I pass my first lesson on finding my Charm identity?”
“Quite so. I believe you’re making an earnest effort, Abby.” Gita’s expression softened. “Go change, and we’ll move on to our next stop.”
Abby didn’t budge. Something dawned in her consciousness that begged expressing. “Um, I’d rather not change back, and I mean that literally and figuratively.” Abby’s face brightened. “Could I please stay in the overalls and top?”
“What a splendid idea.” Gita surprised Abby with an affection filled hug. “It’s nice to meet Abby, the lover of fun and…digging. Wouldn’t you agree, Lillian?”
“Yes, most certainly.”
Abby’s face lit with pleasure. “Can I add the denim overalls and sunflower top? I adore them too.”
“But of course.” Lillian went to the fitting room to gather the other garments and returned. “Excuse me, I’m going to put the rest of the clothing in a shopping bag and bid you both a fond farewell. I’ll be in the stockroom should you have further need. Abby, I look forward to seeing you around the village wearing those overalls.” Lillian presented a happy countenance. “I almost forgot. I expect more overalls in fall colors to arrive next week. Do stop by.”
“That’s tempting. Thank you again, Lillian.” She watched Lillian disappear behind a door. Abby turned to Gita and whispered, “So, how do I pay for these things?”
“You don’t.” Gita paused. “It’s time I explain more. The garments belong to you. In Charm, what we need is provided. Notice I said ‘need’ and not ‘want.’ That’s not to say a want can’t become a need. It happens sometimes, but for today’s explanation, these clothes met more than one need. They symbolize the inner and outer changes you’re making and will continue to make. While in Charm, they belong to you. They’re meant for you.”
“But surely Lillian has to pay for the delivered merchandise. She can’t afford to give things away. I expect all of the merchants here must pay—this makes no sense.” Abby lifted her hands in the air.
“That’s true if you’re applying common business practices from your life before arriving in Charm. I’m asking you to set aside your template of how things used to work in that existence and embrace this marvelous way to move through life unencumbered.” Gita retied a fuchsia scarf around her waist.
“I’m trying to accept what you’re saying, but I don’t get what I can only imagine is a philanthropist supplying this town with all it needs.” Abby grabbed a breath and collected her thoughts. “I suppose I’m asking who, what, when, where, why, and how to everything connected to Charm.” Not paying for the clothes had rattled her mind.
Gita motioned for Abby to return to the chairs. “Come sit a moment. Let me try to make things clearer. As for the specifics of how merchandise moves in and out of Charm, all I can offer is it happens at night. Items appear in the shops for the next day’s needs. Your overalls likely weren’t hanging on the rack last week. Listen, Abby dear, all of us, upon arrival, sought answers like you. Still, each person must find their way over time to understand and accept the varied ways Charm life operates. I’m here to offer guidance, respond to what I can, and introduce you to the essential lessons.”
“But—”
Gita interrupted. “You’re traveling a path that’s as unique as you. That means the answers you seek carry the same unique qualities and are recognized only by you. I realize you’re baffled by Charm’s customs, and that’s expected. Am I making any sense?” Gita’s eyes rested on her quester.
“A little.” Abby saw Lillian grab some tickets and disappear into the back. “So, you’re saying that I’m not alone wanting to know how things and people operate in Charm? Once I align with my purpose, explanations that fit my needs are given along that journey. The journey you’ve been tapped to guide….”
“Guide you along,” finished Gita, looking pleased. “Yes, yes, you said it better than me. Some specific details I’m free to share as we progress, so always feel free to ask. I’ll answer what applies to your journey.”
Abby felt she owed Gita cooperation. “Okay, I’m feeling a tad more centered, though overwhelming still defines Charm’s workings in my mystical book.”
Gita patted Abby’s hand. “Take heart. Sometimes it still does in mine as well, except now in the best possible ways.”
“That’s some comfort, I guess,” said Abby.
“You’ll soon see living a ‘charmed life’ is a gift like no other.” Gita peeked at her watch. “Goodness, it’s time for our next stop.”
Abby stood, feeling a nudge to make amends. “Gita, I’m sorry about sounding so rude and unappreciative. Without you, Nash, and the rest, I can’t imagine how frantic I’d feel, never mind unable to cope with everything. Please, won’t you forgive me?”
Gita lightly touched Abby’s shoulder. “We don’t judge in Charm. To forgive means I judged you lacking. You’re not, Abby. At any given moment, everyone here is giving their best. As long as we come from love and not fear, joy fills our being. It’s my personal guarantee.”
“Thank you for your insights and reminder. Since I arrived, I recognize I’m operating from fear so much of the time. I suppose I should forgive myself under the circumstances.” Abby looked away while considering her words.
“By all means, forgive. Further, I predict you’ll spend more time in balance once your mind finds accepting is a smarter choice.” Gita shrugged and hung up the belt. “Not for me.”
“You need to write a book.” Abby followed Gita to the counter.
“I did,” Gita said over her shoulder.