Across the Ages (Across the Ages Book One) (13 page)

“Yes, it is.” The helicopter shifted. It was turning. The large skyscrapers changed into warehouses. “We’ll be able to see Lady Liberty in less than a minute.”

“Lady Liberty?”

“She was delivered to the United States as a gift from France. Dedicated in eighteen eighty-six, she stands for freedom.” As Will spoke, an enormous green statue of a woman came into view. Lit up she shone like a beacon. Lady Liberty wore a crown on her head. In one hand she held a torch and in the other what looked like a book.

Lucy turned in her seat to get a better view. “She’s gorgeous,” Lucy said, awe filling her heart and soul.

“That she is,” Will said.

***

The limo pulled up in front of Mr. Kincaid’s house. It’d been an incredible day. The limo driver opened the door and Will helped Lucy out.

“Thank you so much for today. The toy store, the hot dog, letting me fly the helicopter, and then taking me up in a real one…” She shook her head as she spoke, her heart full of warmth at all he’d done for and with her. The day almost seemed unreal. “Today is definitely one of my top five.” She gave him a huge smile as she used the term. He’d explained its meaning to her during their flight around the statue.

Will smiled with his whole face and Lucy realized she liked that.

“I’m so glad,” he said as they walked up the steps to the front door. “It was a blast showing you around.” He leaned in, his head tilting.

What’s happening?
Was he going to kiss her? Her mind emptied and fear filled the space. She didn’t think she was ready for him to kiss her.

His eyes kept roaming to her lips.

“Will?” Lucy licked them, nervous. “Mr. Godwin,” she said, placing a tentative hand on his shoulder. She couldn’t help but notice his solid body. The man obviously took care of himself.

Will lifted one side of his mouth. “Today was top five for me as well.” He straightened. “Tomorrow will be even better,” he added matter-of-factly.

“Oh?” Lucy focused on his words, but her heart was disappointed he hadn’t kissed her.

“Tomorrow I’ll take you to see a movie. There’s a film on Great White Sharks in IMAX 3D. It’ll expand your mind in ways you never thought possible. Then we’ll go out on my yacht, have lunch, and catch a fish or two.”

Lucy had no idea what a film or IMAX 3D was, but didn’t say that. By the look on Will’s face, he knew she didn’t understand. She didn’t mind though. As long as she was with him it’d be fun.

“What time should I be ready?” Lucy asked.

“Nine thirty in the morning should be plenty of time to make the show.” He glanced down at her shoes.

Lucy remembered the way he’d removed her shoes earlier. She was more than grateful. Her feet were tired from all they’d done today.

“Wear flat shoes again. Tell Ingrid you’ll be on the water.” He gave her a stern look. “Okay?”

“I will, Mr. Godwin.”

Will made a funny noise with his mouth.

Was he irritated she didn’t call him Will? She wasn’t sure.

Will opened the door. “Goodnight, Miss Channing.”

“Goodnight, Will.” She closed the door and leaned against it.

“Did you have a good time?” Mr. Kincaid asked, walking over. He was dressed in dark pants, a light blue shirt, and a jacket that matched his pants. His eyes shone with inquisitive joy.

“I did, Mr. Kincaid.” An eruption of happiness swept over her and she hugged him. Something quite out of the ordinary for Lucy.

Mr. Kincaid hugged her back. “I’m glad to hear it, Miss Lucy.”

After several moments, Lucy released him. “I’m going to take my leave. It’s been a busy day and I’m tired.”

“Of course. Did you want me to have the cook send you up something to eat?”

“No. Thank you.”

“Very good. If you don’t have plans the day after tomorrow, I’d love the opportunity to spend some time getting to know you.”

Lucy hugged him again. “Of course, Mr. Kincaid.”

She started up the stairs. “Goodnight.”

“Goodnight, my dear.”

TWENTY-ONE

DAUGHTER OF RA

LUCY OPENED
the front door to Mr. Kincaid’s house at exactly nine-thirty. Ingrid had helped her dress in a pair of dark jeans that were tight all the way to her ankles. They reminded her of stockings, showing off everything. But they were comfortable, the material soft to the touch. Then she’d put on a pair of shoes that were very unfeminine but also comfortable. Ingrid called them boat shoes. She wore a white shirt with a dark green hooded jacket over the top. Ingrid said it was a slicker and that it would keep her dry if it should rain. Lucy’s hair had been wound in a loose bun. She wore only waterproof mascara and lip-gloss for makeup.

Will took her in, and nodded his approval. “You’re ready. Impressive. I figured I’d have to wait.”

“Surprise,” Lucy said lightly, climbing into the limo.

The driver started down the path.

“You aren’t like most girls, are you?” Will asked.

She wasn’t sure whether to take offense or not. In her time it was no secret. She tried to like what other girls liked and used her younger sister as a template for what was acceptable behavior. It seemed she stood out even more in Will’s time.

“No,” she finally said.

“That isn’t a bad thing. It’s actually quite good.”

Lucy knew he was complimenting her, but for some reason she felt irritated. Why couldn’t she fit in somewhere?

“Have I offended you?” He moved to sit next to her instead of across from her.

She searched his face. He really had meant his words as a compliment. “Not precisely, I—”

Will’s phone rang. Lucy saw that it wasn’t Mimi. It read Unknown.

“Let me answer this,” Will said.

She glanced away, looking out the window.

“Go for Will,” he answered into the phone.

That made Lucy smile. The salutation was wholly odd, yet somehow fit Will.

Lucy could hear the person on the other end speaking though she couldn’t understand the actual words. The voice sounded male and foreign. She wondered what the call could be about.

“Can it wait a few days?”

There was more talking from the other person.

“All right. Send the specs to my email. I’ll have the plane readied and meet you for dinner tomorrow night.”

Lucy wondered what a blasted email was.

“Salaam.” Will clicked the phone, pressed a button to roll down the glass. “We need to go back.”

“Yes, Mr. Godwin.”

The limo turned around and started heading back to Mr. Kincaid’s.

“Is there something wrong?” Lucy asked.

“No, nothing’s wrong, but I’ve been asked to procure a statue called the Golden Goddess. She’s an Egyptian goddess by the name Bastet. Have you heard of her?”

Lucy froze. She had, from the goddess herself. Lucy swallowed. “Yes. She’s Ra’s daughter.”

“That’s right.” He put his phone back in the front pocket of his short pants. Lucy noticed he wore the same style of shoes she did. He also wore a similar jacket. It was strange that they matched again. In her time such an occurrence would never happen. “I’ve got to get packed and leave in the next few hours.” He sighed. “I’m sorry I won’t be able to spend more time with you.”

Lucy’s mouth went dry. She didn’t want him to go. Over the course of the previous night, one thing had become certain. She’d tried to deny its truthfulness, even tried to come up with another excuse as to why the amulet had brought her to New York. But her heart wouldn’t let her lie. She’d never felt the way she felt with Will for another living soul. He was her true love. The amulet knew it and she knew it too. “I am sorry as well. I was looking forward to watching a film with IMAX.”

Will chuckled softly. “Me too.”

The driver stopped and Will helped Lucy out.

Mr. Kincaid came to the door just as Lucy was about to open it. “What’s going on?” He wore tan pants and pink short sleeved golf shirt. Over one shoulder was a bag of clubs.

Will answered. “I have a job in Egypt and need to leave right away.”

Mr. Kincaid’s brows furrowed. “Why not take her with you?” he asked, his kind eyes going back and forth between Will and Lucy.

Lucy couldn’t help but wonder if Mr. Kincaid was trying to be rid of her. Besides, she knew her continents and Egypt was quite far from this New World, across the ocean far. She hadn’t the slightest clue how they would get there, but she guessed it would take weeks, possibly months. She didn’t have that kind of time.

The question surprised Will. “I couldn’t do that. My work demands that I go into places inhabited by creatures women would rather not see.” He gave Lucy a knowing look.

“Perhaps, dear boy, but you promised and you have a bet to honor.” Mr. Kincaid set his clubs down.

Will rested one of his feet on the bottom step. “That’s true, but I would think you’d prefer she stay with you. Something could happen to her. She could die. That kind of thing does happen on exhibitions such as this one.” He glanced at Lucy. “It’s very dangerous.”

Lucy figured he expected her to agree with him. Truthfully, she couldn’t. The idea of going in search of the statue, of traipsing through unexplored places, watching Will do his work, excited her. She wanted to go. “I won’t be a bother,” she said, smiling sweetly.

Will’s gaze turned sour. “You can’t know what you’re saying. The flight is bumpy and long. Then we’ll be walking for hours, probably entering tombs, and caves. Maybe even underground tunnels. It’ll be treacherous. I can’t be responsible for your safety. Besides,” he turned back to Mr. Kincaid, “she doesn’t exist in this time. She’s a ghost. Without a passport they won’t even let her in the country.”

Lucy glared, angry and frustrated. She wanted to go, but he was right. She didn’t exist in the current century. Still, she was a woman of substance. Hadn’t she proven that? “I’m not a simpering little girl, Mr. Godwin. I can take care of myself.”

Will sighed. “I’ve no doubt you believe—”

Mr. Kincaid interrupted, “If I obtain the proper documents and take care of her expenses, do you agree to let her come?”

Will’s jaw worked as he ground his teeth. “Have her packed and to my loft with all documentation,” he paused and checked the watch on his wrist, “in twelve hours. Not a minute later. If she isn’t there, ready to go, on time, I’m gone and I won’t look back.”

“Very good, my boy,” Mr. Kincaid said, smiling brightly.

Will climbed into the limo. Before he closed the door, Lucy interjected, “I’ll be there, Mr. Godwin. You needn’t believe otherwise.”

Will mumbled something and closed the door. The limo drove away.

“Insufferable,” Lucy uttered.

“Agreed,” Mr. Kincaid said. But Lucy noticed the huge grin on his face.

“Have you tired of me so soon, Mr. Kincaid?” She went through the front door and over to the stairs. “I’m sorry to have been a bother.”

Mr. Kincaid closed the door. “You aren’t a bother in the least, my dear. Surely you know why you’re here, and it isn’t for me, though I’ve loved seeing you.”

Lucy cleared her throat. He was right. She hadn’t come to meet him even though she considered making his acquaintance a gigantic bonus. The amulet had brought her to Will. “Yes, I know.” She clasped her hands together in front of her and lowered her head.

“You have to go with him. Whether he knows it yet or not, and I’m guessing not, your hearts are already bound, and he needs you as much as you need him.”

“I know that too,” Lucy agreed softly.

“Right, so let’s get Ingrid upstairs to help you pack.”

“Very well.” Lucy started up the stairs but paused. “What about the documents?”

“That’s the easy part,” Mr. Kincaid said. His excited urgency sparked the same in her.

“And Ingrid? Will she be my chaperone?”

Mr. Kincaid’s brows knitted together. “I’m sorry my dear. I’d forgotten you might feel more comfortable with another woman along.” He crossed his arms. “Ingrid has a daughter who needs her mother with her as often as possible. I don’t think it would be a good idea for her to go.”

“I see.” For the first time Lucy hesitated.

“You’re concerned for your safety? Do you believe Will is less than honorable?”

She remembered the way he’d looked last night after the helicopter ride, like he might kiss her, and how she’d wanted him to. If anything she was worried about how she’d behave if left alone with him.

“I can send someone else with you, if you’d like.”

“What about you, Mr. Kincaid?” Lucy asked hopefully. She’d feel a thousand times better if he accompanied her.

“Forgive me, Lucy, but I am unable.”

She waited for more of an explanation but he didn’t give her one.

“It’ll be all right,” Lucy finally said, throwing back her shoulders with feigned confidence.

***

When Lucy came downstairs, Mr. Kincaid handed her a large envelope. “Everything you need to travel legally is in there.” He tapped it lightly. “Keep it safe. I have a feeling you’ll use these more than once.”

“Thank you, Mr. Kincaid.” She reached out and hugged him.

“You’re welcome.” He kissed her cheek. “Your suitcases have been packed in the back of the limo and it’s ready to take you to the airport.”

“I’m not going to Mr. Kincaid’s loft?” she asked.

“No. I’ve spoken with William. He’ll meet you at the plane.”

Lucy nodded. She trusted Mr. Kincaid.

As they walked to the limo, Lucy asked, “Did you get all of these documents done today?”

He shook his head. “No. I added your picture, but most of them were done because of your grandmother. The woman was a planner. A little over six months ago, the last time I saw her, she asked me to get them ready.” His demeanor turned sad.

“She did?” How had she known Lucy would come to this time?

“I know you have questions about your grandmother and I have answers, but I’m afraid now isn’t the time for them. You’ll be late, my dear.”

The limo driver opened the door.

“Very well then.” She kissed his cheek. “And I’m holding you to answering questions about my grandmother.” She felt rushed, but knew Will really would leave if she didn’t arrive on time.

Mr. Kincaid hugged her. “Follow your heart, Granddaughter. Promise me you’ll be safe.”

“I promise.” Lucy felt herself getting choked up. She was sad to be leaving him. Her eyes filled with tears. “Thank you for everything, Mr.—” She closed her eyes briefly and took a deep breath. “Grandfather.” She gave him a bright smile. “I’m glad I got to—”

“Hey. Hey. Hey. This sounds like good-bye.” Mr. Kincaid took her hand between both of his. They were gentle and warm, like his eyes. “I’ll see you again, either in a couple of days or a few weeks. This isn’t good-bye. It’s just, see you later. Okay?”

“Okay.” She blinked rapidly, working back the tears.

Mr. Kincaid closed the limo door, waving as it drove her away. Lucy waved back until the driver turned off the well-lit driveway and on to the street.

“It’ll be about an hour until we reach the airport, Miss Lucy,” the driver said.

“Thank you,” Lucy replied. She settled in, absently watching the large houses with trimmed lawns and manicured shrubs whisk by. It was dark, the moon covered by clouds. Occasionally she’d catch a glimpse of the ocean, the waves crashing against the sandy shore.

Peace settled over her. She knew there might be danger going on this excursion with Will. But she wanted to go anyway. There were two reasons. The first was Will. She wanted to be with him. The second was more selfish. Since she was a young girl and had listened to her grandmother’s stories she’d longed to travel, to see and experience the world like her grandmother had. Will and her grandfather had offered her a chance and she couldn’t pass it up.

She smiled inwardly, watching the moonlight sparkle on the ocean as the limo crossed the bridge.

Lucy removed the navy sweater Ingrid had given her to wear.

“Are you hot, Miss Lucy? I can turn on some air.”

“That would be nice.”

The driver pushed a button and air began blowing from vents, immediately cooling her down. She wore a navy and white striped shirt. Her pants were navy as well. The cuff stopped at the middle of her calf. Her navy shoes had a slight heel. Ingrid had called them pumps.

It was odd riding in the limo alone. The darkness and silence allowed her to focus on her feelings, pick through the thoughts crowding her mind. She pulled out her grandmother’s locket and clicked it open so she could look at the metal inside. Bastet had said it was part of an amulet created by the goddess Hathor for Apep. She’d also said there was another piece somewhere in the world.

It seemed more than mere coincidence that Will had been asked to procure a statue of Bastet, the very goddess who’d appeared to Lucy just two night ago.

She closed the locket, tucked it back under her shirt, and rested her head against the back of the seat.