At Home With The Sock Diva

Adam opened the curtains and allowed me to look out on the early morning. Water-coloured clouds washed over the rising sun, its light seeping and pooling just above the horizon, orange, red and gold. “Looks like we are in for a rough day weather wise” I commented picking up a piece of crispy bacon and nibbling on the end. “Yup” Adam replied “I’m heading for the shower Poppet” he said and wandered off to the bathroom. Out of nowhere, the sound started… a nonsensical murmer inside my head. “Argh!” I yelled, placing my hands on my ears. “Just go away, I beg of you!” the sound stopped as quick as it started. I amazed myself. “Gosh,” I thought to myself “If I knew it was that easy I would have stopped it the other night.” Adam came running into the room concern on his face.

“What’s wrong?” he asked walking toward the bed. “The noise started again but as I yelled, it went again. I am getting so confused.” Adam sat on the end of the bed and patted my leg. “we will work through it” he said. “Finish your breakfast and we can get started.” With that, he up and walked back to the bathroom. I finished my breakfast and lay out my clothes for the day. No matter what had happened in the last 24 hours, I was not going to let it irk me. I had planned a bit of theraputic shopping today and that is exactly what I was going to do!

Adam had headed to the office while I headed out to the woolen mills after showering and dressing. It was a bit of a drive but I always enjoyed it and at this very moment, it was a great  way to take my mind off things. I was half way there when I heard a knocking from the boot of the car. I drove on and tried to ignore it. It happened again so decided t pull along the side of the road and check it out.  Nothing seemed unusual. I checked for loose paraphenalia and then checked the tyres before closing the boot and getting back in the car. I drove on, in peace.

Adam was working at his makeshift office when Branham approached. “That woman of yours… Lotte, does she have any special talents?” He asked. Adam looked up with a quizical look. “Not that I know of apart from her great knitting.” he replied. “Why do you ask?” Branham pursed his lips, letting out a little air and put his hands on his hips while exhaling. “I want you to come and listen to something.” He began walking away indicating for Adam to follow.  ”Louise was typing up the notes from the interview yesterday and has discovered something… it has,” he raised his fingers to indicate her quote by crooking a couple fingers in the air. “freaked her out” he said. Adam smiled and let out a laugh. “What do you mean?” he asked rising to his feet. “Just follow me” Branham said and walked out of the room to find Louise.

Branham waited by Louise’s desk for Adam, “Play it for him” Branham asked. Louise looked up then unplugged her headphones and rewound the digital voice recording. She pressed play after handing the headphones to Adam and sat watching Adams face. His expression went from confused to disturbed. Over and between Lotte’s talking was a continious murmer, occasional words like murder and revenge could be picked up. Adam raised his hand “thats enough Louise” he said. “I’ll take the recording and get a copy to send to the city to be cleaned up and see if we can get any more out of it”. “Thanks Adam” Louise said. “”I don’t really want to listen any more… it is creeping me out. I can only imagine the hell Lotte is going through. Hey, you being back… does this mean you are back together” she asked Adam with raised eyebrow. “Adam smiled and walked off with the digital recorder asking Branham “why is everyone so concerend with whether Lotte and I are getting back together?” Branham shrugged and walked on.

I enjoyed my little jaunt and was happy that the voice had left me alone for a while. After a bit of theraputical shopping for luxurions yarn, I pulled into the cidery for a cool draught and some home made cake. Because I  had made this trip may times before I knew the proprieters by name. I enjoyed the sunshine in their alfresco setting and the lively chit chat about this years bumper crop and their new addition, Wandin Pride, weeping apple trees. It such a nice way to pass the time I was reluctant to up and leave but figured, with some new sliver to spin and some yarn to knit up, it was best I made my way home.

At the 50 kilometre mark the noises started again. I didn’t want to pull over again and tried to ignore it. The sound appeared to be coming from the boot again or the back seet. I continued looking back from time to time when I noticed a dark coloured station wagon approaching from behind. It seemed to be coming a tad too fast to be in the same lane as me but I kept to the limit and concentrated on the road. Soon my car lurched forward. He hit me! I was starting to get angry but kept my temper. The dark car pulled out from behind me and kept level for a while. I looked over but only noticed a shadow and not who it was nor which sex, a shapeless form. It started to swerve to hit my side but I pulled out the way and watched. I saw a flash of white teeth as the car headed onward. As it passed me I saw a face look out the back window, bloodied and afraid. A red hand reached up and touched the window then disappeared.

I pulled over, shock at what I had just seen. I couldn’t believe it. I got out of the car and checked the back, a bit of a dent but not as bad as I expected. I got back in the car, locked the doors and took my mobile phone out of my bag. It was times like this I was glad Adam was around.

Adam answered on the second ring and I didn’t even let him start his greeting, “Adam? Lotte here. Can you head up the highway and meet me?” I asked, worry affecting my voice. “What’s happened Lotte?” Adam asked worried. I told him and said I was a little shaken to drive. Another beautiful day ruined by a not so pleasant encounter. “Keep the doors locked and stay where you are Lotte, I will get a car to drop me off and I will bring you home. I have a little news I want to share with you as well.” “Ok,” I stammered “P-Please hurry babe…”. and I ended the call and sat, shaking with fear in the drivers seat; windows up and doors locked. How can this happen to me… Why? I asked myself. I reached into my large hand bag and pulled out a sock in progress. Knitting was the only way I could keep myself calm. I jumped when the noises started again. This time I heard distinct laughter amongst the murmuring. Tears started streaming down my face. I wanted the noises to stop, and the laughter and I wanted it all to be over. I wiped away at my teas and kept knitting, Adams knock at the window almost made me jump out of my skin.

We drove home in silence. I never realized the trauma an event like this would cause me. I was grateful the whispering had stopped for now and I could enjoy Adams company in peace. Where had the time gone? One moment I was at the cemetery and the next it appeared late afternoon.

We arrived home and Adam retrieved his bag from the boot of the car. He still packed light. That amazed me to this day. Even though I try to pack light, it seems my bag is always bulging. Heck, once I took a few days in the Spa district and packed more than enough to keep me clean and clothed for a few weeks. Adams luggage consisted of just one small overnighter. I guessed I would be doing some washing and ironing while he was here. We walked inside and Adam sent me to the showers. “It’ll do you good” he said, pointing me in the direction of the bathroom. “OK already, gosh, anyone would think I stunk or something the way you are insisting. Any particular ‘flavour’ of shower gel you want me to use?” Adam smiled cheekily and said “the citrus and fig was always a nice tasty one, any chance they still make it?” “They sure do” I replied and headed into the bathroom to shower.

I discarded my clothing and stepped into the warm water stream. I let the water wash over my body. Adam was right, the water was soothing me. I lathered up and washed my hair again for good measure when suddenly the water turned cold. I heard the toilet flush and instantly made the connection. Taps turned off, I stepped from the suddenly cold shower and dried myself, wrapping a towel around my hair then walked out. “You couldn’t help yourself could you?” I asked Adam. He just smiled and turned away. I kind of missed having him around. I padded off into the bedroom to dress. Although the dress code for the pub was casual, I chose a slightly more dressy outfit and busied myself getting dressed. As I braided my wet hair, Adam stuck his head around the door. “Nearly ready Poppet?” he asked with a smile. I turned a little, arms in the air holding strands in place, “Sure I am, I just need to finish off the tresses and I will be done.” A quick application of makeup was applied before I started on the hair. I knew Adam wasn’t keen on makeup, I felt I needed to put on a brave face so to speak. I clipped a barrette into my hair and turned completely to Adam “Voila” I said, presenting myself for inspection “all done. Why are we rushing to get there? Are you after the pensioners special or something?” I queried him. Adam laughed and stood back bowing while I passed.  He really did make me feel good. It ws nice having him around again.

We drove to the pub and he helped me out of his car then headed inside. Not a lot had changed, the same orange and purple carpet, a bit squishy under foot, the same stale beer smell and laminated tables and even the same smiling face behind the bar. Amber grinned and waved our welcome. She beckoned us to go to the bar first which we did. I had a glass of house wine and Adam a beer. We chatted and drank while it was still quiet. Amber was asking about my latest crafting pursuits. She was also a member of my local knitting ring. I had not attended for a while as I was taking a little break from all crafting. I heard all about Amber’s project. It is funny but she was still working on a sweater for her husband. The very same one she was starting when she joined the group. It had been two years ago. “If you are not careful” I told her “your husband will grow a little around the waist and then it will be too small” She laughed. “I think it is too late” she whispered back over the bar. Since he gave up the footy the pounds have found him. I could still give it to my son.” she laughed. I found out her son was already 16 and taller than his father. These days it was him playing football instead of Kevin. Occasionally, if I miss my early morning walk on the weekend, I will walk to the football ground during the day to watch the local games. It is always fun to catch up with old friends. I think this is why I enjoy living in a little village like I do. I still get my privacy living right on the edge of town but people are still friendly enough to make anyone feel welcome.

Amber leaned as far as she could over the bar and indicated I should do the same. “Is Adam back for good?” she whispered while winking. “I hope so, you two always made a great couple.” I shook my head to indicate no. “he is here working” I said. “I am just putting him up until he has to go back to the city” I told her. It was hard to hide the ache inside. I really will miss him and he only just got here. “Oh,” Amber said sliding to the floor again. “we can only hope for the best then. What did you want to order tonight Lottie?”. I turned to Adam and shrugged my shoulders. “Any special requests Adam?” I asked. He looked to the chalk board behind the bar and said “The largest steak you have, with mushroom sauce and vegetables, Lotte will have the the schnitzel with mushrooms and salad” I was surprised he remembered my favourite meal. All ordered, we took our drinks back to a table by a window and sat smiling at each other.

“Why look so worried Lotte?” I shrugged again and took a sip. “It was such a nice day to start and now look at this mess. At least the whispering has stopped for now.” Adam looked me in the eye and said so seriously ” It will get better babe, just wait a bit. After this meal we can go for an evening walk and you can tell me what you have been up to, your latest projects and what you are reading.” I smiled. Same old Adam, “Thanks Adam, you always knew how to take my mind off things. That sounds like a grand evening.” The meals arrived and we just chatted about nothing in particular and the evening passed without incident.  Adam and I walked and chatted and drank a little too much wine. By midnight I staggered to the bedroom. “Catch you in the a.m. bud” I said as I wandered into the bedroom. No sooner had my head hit the pillow, I fell asleep, no voices, no fear. Just plain alcohol induced slumber.

I woke way too early. My eyes focused on the alarm glowing in the dark. 3AM! I couldn’t believe it. I closed my eyes again and felt something slide over my hip. “Must be the cat” I mumbled about to fall asleep .Suddenly my eyes flew open when I realized something pulling at me… Adam was pulling me towards him. This wasn’t suppose to happen. I made up the spare room… It felt so good though. I relaxed into his arms and enjoyed the hug. I fell deeply back to sleep and woke with the warm sun shining on my face and an empty spot where Adam had been. I wondered if I imagined it. I lay for a while and enjoyed the singing birds outside my window.

I was suddenly aware of the slight spitting sound from the kitchen and the delicious smell of bacon. No wonder my cat was no where to be seen, he was off in the kitchen begging for food. I started sitting up to get out of bed when around the door, Adam popped his head. “Ready for breakfast sunshine?” he asked with a smile. “Sure Honey, What made you decided on bedside service?” Adam placed the tray on the bed and sat next to it. “We had a tough day yesterday, I thought this one could get off to a better start… Most important meal of day you know!” I laughed and arranged some pillows behind me. It smelt delicious and tasted even better.

I turned the stereo on for want of some relief from the noise in my head. It subsided but was still like a mumble in the background. I made a coffee and sat on my window seat and watched tiny flecks of dust float to the ground on rays of sunlight. How could such beauty be ruined on such a nice day. I sipped my coffee, closed my eyes and just tried to float away on the music.

Coffee finished, I put the cup down and tried to make sense of it all, the warm autumnal sun, filtered through the net curtains, kissing my face. I fell asleep, peace at last from the noise in my head.

I had no idea how long I had dozed but I woke with a jump, hearing a noise right near me. I turned suddenly expecting some frightful sight… what Isaw was Adam, pulling up a chair next to me. He smiled and reached out to stroke my dishevelled hair.
“How did you get in?” I asked somewhat bewildered. ” Don’t you remember?” he asked with a smile, “You never asked for your keys back. I knew they would come in handy and besides, I can save on accomodation if I bunk here for a while.”

Another blank moment for me. I stared into his eyes waiting for the right words to come. They didn’t. We had been apart for some time now, it would seem strange to have someone sharing my home again… although, I knew it would only be for a couple days hopefully. How could I have been so rude to not even consider sharing my home with someone I knew so well.

I smiled and rested my head on his palm. “hey,” he said, ” feel up to coming back to the station already? The circus has left town and we can talk quietly, they still want you to answer a few questions.”

“I didn’t do it” I mumbled wiping a tear away with the back of my hand. I looked up at him wanting answers. “I know, love, we just need to get the ball rolling.” I stared off into nothing for a moment, wondering if  I should tell him. “come on, “he said holding out his hand.” Lets get it over with then we can come back and have some coffee and chat.”

I reached up and took his hand, easing myself off the chair. We walked into the hall, his arms around my shoulders. “I’m driving” he said jingling his keys. I grabbed my shawl on the way out. I had a feeling it was going to get a little chilly in more ways than one. We strolled to the car then, being a perfect gentleman, Adam opened the passenger door and ushered me in. He then ran to the other side and slipped behind the wheel. Although the police station was not far, walking there would mean less time we had later.

After arriving we walked into the station, workers there looking up and waving hellos to Adam. He had been gone a while but he must have left a lasting impression. He waved back, sharing a huge smile with them as we passed. We turned a few corners in what felt like a rabbit warren. We came to a bare room, no windows but a table and 4 chairs facing it. I was led in and asked to wait at the table while Adam went to get someone and they came back, coffee in hand.

“Just to make it official” Adam said ” we will be recording this and then type it up later OK Poppet?” I nodded. He gave a little introductory spiel for the typists sake when the Dectective walked in and took his seat. “are you OK with this Ms Drake?” he asked gruffly. I almost whispered the word yes. “Can you say that louder for the tape Ms Drake?” Yes.” I said in a stronger voice then he headed straight into the questions.

“Did you know the victim?” He asked. I looked at him blankly before words tumbled out of my mouth. “Er, no sir” I said looking to Adam. “I only saw some fingers,that was all. It was then I recalled what I read in the paper last night” I stumbled through my statement. More questions all related to me knowing the victim and how I knew the child was there. I was honest, distraught, saddened by the loss and for the childs parents. The feint voice whispering in my ear all along.

After about half an hour, just before  Dective Branham was winding up, I mentioned the whispering. Adam and Branham looked dumbfounded. “I know it sounds weird but it is true… I heard whispering last night and again at the grave  side. I can hear it now. I can not make out what it is saying but it is there. Maybe I have tinnitus or I am going mad. I just do not know.” My head hung low, I tried holding back the tears. I figured I was just going mad in my own little world. Maybe I didn’t get out enough. Adam and Branham talked low to each other then the the Dective said the interview was finished. He smiled at me and offered me a tissue. I accepted.

“I don’t think you are going mad Lottie, I think you are tired. If you think of anything, just let us know.” I nodded sheepishly. I felt embarrassed about what I had said and I was grateful he was at least kind to me. He whispered something to Adam then said goodbye.

Adam smiled at me then stood and offerd his hand so I took it and stood. ” There is no reason for you to be upset Lottie” Adam said comforting me. “You helped us a lot, we have finally finished with the grave and have a couple more pieces of evidence.” I could only manage a smile, I imagined my eyes were red and puffy. “Adam,” I asked in a mumble, “you don’t think I am going mad? I mean, I swear, I heard the voices. They don’t say anything just a mumble in the background.” “I think you are fine and just need a rest Lottie. Lets get you home and cleaned up, we can go out for dinner tonight. The stone grill place is still going strong. A bit of meat and you will be fine.”

I never understood Adams need to feed me red meat all the time but it was nice to have someone care for me right now. We walked out of the station, Adam dropping a tape off in the office before leaving.

I was left pondering the other day at the supermarket. I was suffering from some, what should I call it; bad cashews. I use to work in a Pharmacy. Every couple months we would hear about the gloom and doom of Pharmacies if “God Forbid” the Government gets their way and pharmaceuticals would be available through Supermarkets.
Personally, I thought “How wonderful, Drop off the script, do your shopping and pick it up. the whole idea would be that they would ‘build’ a little pharmacy within the supermarket. This would mean more jobs for pharmacists and the pharmacy assistants.
I digress… here I was at 7 am in th e supermarket. I can get herbs and vitamins, cough and cold medicines, things for upset tummies and for constipation, headache relief, make up, hair dyes, nappies. The list goes on… I could not, however, get something to stop or relieve the runs. I had to wait for 8:30 for the chemist to open by which time, I could have left a trail from the shop to the car… I needed something in a hurry.
Why do we have to wait for the pharmacy board and the govenment to make up their minds… We can get almost everything else at a supermarket, Why not what I really needed in a hurry?

The heady scent of frangipani floated up on the warm air and mingled with the cooler sea breeze on the 19th floor balcony.  I watched lazily out to to sea, the outrigger canoes, the long surfboards and the occasional yacht. It was hard saying goodbye to the tropical paradise. Now cold air brushed my tanned skin and rain sprinkled on my once smooth shiny hair. I walked into the mausoleum that is my workplace. it does not pay to have a holiday these days. Especially since I have my own work and someone elses to catch up on. Yes, it is only a memory now, less than a week after I landed.