Palm Arbor Press

10 mile run wrap up! #PRforme #gettingstronger #getyouasquadlikemine #56andfabulous #fitnessgoals #iseeamarathoninmyfuture

This is the edited and rewritten prologue to the book I am currently working on. Enjoy: DREAMS PROLOGUE The shrill sound of the train whistle pierced through th...e night air as the locomotive sped along the track. Shadows bounced across the windows under the soft moonlight. It was the eve of Diedra’s wedding to James Davis and she and her friends were travelling home on a luxury train. Her petite frame sank into the comfort of the lavish booth, swaying gently with the motion of the train. She could hardly believe she was actually going to marry James Davis. Even more unbelievable, he wanted to marry her. She observed the ladies sprawled about the passenger car, garbed in their high school cheer outfits. They were all there. The entire Nurnberg American High School varsity squad made up her bridal party. Cassandra sat directly across from Diedra. Freckles peeked out beneath the prescription glasses perched precariously on the tip of her nose. Her eyes pierced through the lens and her long, curly hair fell loosely around her ruddy complexion. She tugged at her uniform, which was just a little small. Thanks to the gift of curves motherhood had brought her. Breanna was next to Cassandra. Her short sleek haircut was flawless as always. Like everything else Breanna wore, her uniform seemed to fall just right. Her creamy elbows propped on the table, contrasting with the rich cherry wood table as she rested her chin in her hands, almond shaped eyes twinkling bright like stars. An image reminiscent of one of her ads from her summer spent modeling for that beauty soap in Atlanta. Sharnell’s long, athletic legs stretched across the leather seat like smooth chocolate and she extended her arms above her head as she languished in the plush leather seat. The rest of the squad was positioned around the car like well-placed models in a Henry Battle painting. It was odd to see Sharnell in a cheer uniform, since she had never cheered a day in her life. She had been a star basketball player when they were in high school. Ten years ago! Diedra saw three huge rabbits scampering alongside the train. They easily kept up with the pace of the locomotive. She moved to the window and watched as the rabbits hopped along beside them. This is going to be the best day of your life! Cassandra squealed. Diedra turned to see Derek Jefferson walking out the rear exit. Where is he going? She wondered. And what is he doing here anyway? She watched through the glass door as he walked away. After all this time? Why are you looking behind you when your future is right in front of you? That was James’s, her fiancé voice, but when she turned around, he wasn’t there. The whistle blared again. The train came to a screeching halt and her friends filed out of the front exit. Diedra snatched up her bags and hurried out behind them. We’re almost home. Diedra stepped down from the train and collided with a woman scurrying across the platform. Both women collapsed into a jumbled heap on the ground. The woman was shrouded in plastic bags. Her rumpled clothing melded with the bags. At least 50 bags hung from her neck and waistline and she held several bags in each hand. Each bag appeared to be filled with paper. Some of the bags were dirty and worn, as if she’d carried them longer than the others. They were so thin Diedra could practically read the writing on the papers inside them. Some of the bags were fresher, more recent acquirements. Oh, I am so sorry! Diedra sputtered. Enschuntigen sie mir bitte, (German for, ‘Excuse me please.’) the woman replied. To her own surprise, Diedra understood her. It had been years since she had heard the language, let alone, speak it. My apologies, Diedra responded. I was just trying to catch up with my friends her voice trailed off as she took in her surroundings. The enormous sign in the center of the train station read, MUNCHEN HAUPBAHNHOFF. Munich Main Railway! The people bustling to and fro around them were all speaking German. Various trains pulled in and out of the boarding areas, loading and unloading passengers. She didn’t see any of her friends. The deafening sounds of the incoming and departing trains filled the air. Diedra sprang up from the ground and spun around, frantically looking for a familiar face. III’m sorry, she stammered as she turned and ran toward the conductor standing on the nearest platform. The flashing sign read, DAS GESLINGEN. Success. Just as she arrived, the conductor stepped into the train and closed the door. Diedra turned around and saw the woman draped in bags, shuffling toward another platform with a flashing sign that read, KOMFORT. Comfort. Hey! Wait up! The Bag Lady briefly looked at Diedra and continued on her way. Diedra ran to catch up with her but the crowd seemed to thicken instantly. The woman boarded the train before Diedra was able to push through the swelling crowd. Diedra’s shoulders sagged in defeat as she looked around the train depot. There were hundreds of platforms. The station spread out endlessly and all of the signage was in German. She had no idea which direction her travelling party had gone. She slowly twirled around as her eyes darted about the station looking for some clue as to where her friends might have gone. Of all the signs in the station, five of them were flashing. DAS GESLINGEN Success, KOMFORT Comfort, SICHERHEIT Security, GLUCK, Happiness, and on the other side of the station, across several tracks was the sign HEIMG What does heimg mean? She couldn’t remember. Diedra spotted Derek stepping into the SICHERHEIT train on the far side of the terminal. Your destiny is before you, Diedra. Diedra was relieved to hear James’ words, but when she turned toward the voice, she saw the bag lady in the distance, emerging from the underpass and dragging all her bags toward the HEIMG train. She took off in her direction. Diedra tried running, but her legs seemed weighted down. She reached the stairs to the underpass just as the DAS GESLINGEN train sped by. Diedra watched wistfully as the train zipped down the line. Everything you want is waiting for you. Where are you? she cried out as she rushed to the entrance to the underpass. She felt compelled to reach this woman, as if she might help her find her way homeor to James. Diedra froze in place as she stared down into the dark stairwell. A cold fear rose up in her chest and filled her lungs with dread. Breathe, Diedra! She gasped for breath as she reacted to James’ command. Diedra plunged into the dark stairwell, gripping the rail tightly as she hurried toward the light at the bottom of the seemingly infinite staircase. She could hear voices in the distance. Was that Cassie’s laugh she heard? Why do I always end up alone? I barely blinked and they were all gone. She inhaled deeply and slowly released her breath as she steadied herself. I just have to get home and I’ll find everyone. The light loomed closer with each step. She reached the bottom of the stairs and stepped out onto the landing. Destination signs pointed in all directions. She headed in the direction of the GLUCK sign. The voices grew louder as she drew near the stairway to the GLUCK train. She heard more laughter, and glasses tinkering. The best day ever! she heard Breanna yell. It sounds like they’re having a party without me, Diedra bolted up the stairs and ran out onto the platform. She reached the conductor, who told her, Dieser Zug ist voll! This train is full! ‘No! It can’t be! I’m the one getting married! she cried. The conductor stepped back on to the train. The door slammed shut and the train sped away, moving down the tracks at lightning speed. Amidst a cacophony of sound and a bustle of motion, all the trains in the stations erupted in movement. Horns sounded, bells rang, and whistles blew, as trains moved through the station in every direction. People boarded the trains at the platforms, and they swiftly departed. Diedra watched as the commotion swirled around her for several minutes. Soon the station was virtually empty, except for one last train. All you need is waiting for you at home. Diedra looked around, and the only sign of life in the entire station was the train across the tracks with the flashing sign, HEIMG . Now she realized the sign was only partially lit. She could not see the rest of the letters from her vantage point. She reluctantly headed towards the stairwell to the underpass. It was the only train left. She would have to board. This was her last chance. The HEIMG train was not as fancy or sleek as some of the other trains she’d observed, but it looked sturdy and well made. The bag lady was approaching her from the other end of the platform. Diedra panicked and hurried to board the train. Just as she reached the entrance to the train, she felt someone tugging her arm from behind. It was the bag lady! Diedra tried to pull away from her, but the other woman was stronger than she looked. The train whistle sounded and the sign began flashing. This time the full sign was lit. HEIMGEHEND. Home! Diedra held onto the railing as tight as she could, but she could feel her grip loosening. The train lurched as if it was going to start moving. Diedra’s hand slipped off the railing and she began to fall back. Suddenly, a pair of strong arms grabbed her and pulled her onto the train. Hold on to me, Diedra! Diedra! The train began shaking furiously. Something cold and wet flew and hit Diedra in her face. *** Diedra! Wake up, sleepy head! Sharnell and Cassandra took turns shaking Diedra, as they attempted to wake her. Did she always sleep this hard? asked Sharnell. As many nights as we spent at each other’s houses in Nurnberg, I don’t ever remember her sleeping this hard. Shar lost her balance and swayed precariously as she leaned in to shake Diedra once again. Whoa! She never had a Bachelorette party when we were in Germany, Marcella reminded her. True, true. Sharnell steadied herself as she surveyed the assortment of empty bottles strewn around the room. All she had was a couple of glasses of champagne! China exclaimed. Lightweight! Stephanie quipped. She foraged through the cooler and found a champagne bottle. In her defense, she’s never had any alcohol before, Breanna answered. She plopped down on the side of the bed next to Diedra. Never?! China and Stephanie were stunned by that revelation. Never. Not even during October Fest, in Germany? Stephanie poured the clear liquid into a paper cup. Breanna looked as if she was trying to remember something important. Nope, not in college either nor after. Diedra was always the designated driver. Never? What part of never don’t you get? Marcella snapped. Would you please wake her up? This baby is hungry. She pulled herself up from her chair and rubbed her swollen belly as she walked around the room, searching for some leftover snack from the night before. Is it the baby that’s hungry, or Mama? Sharnell asked. I’m sure it’s both, Cassandra chuckled. Marcella, look in my bag, I always keep something to munch on. There should be something to hold you over till room service is sent up. Cassandra slowly moved around the room, picking up empty cups, cans and bottles. Cassie, what’s the point in having maid service if you’re going to do their job? China asked. There’s no reason for us to act like slobs, Cassandra continued picking up the discarded items. Thank you, CassieFor the snack and for picking up. I don’t know whose idea it was to close down the lounge last night, and then continue the party in our suite. I’m surprised I got any sleep the way you ladies carried on all night. It’s a good thing Diedra’s wedding isn’t until tomorrow. Maybe you ladies will sober up between now and then, but we still have to get her to her rehearsal dinner tonight. You sure are bossy. Breanna observed. Marcella looked at her and they both burst into laughter. I can’t even blame it on motherhood. I guess I just can’t help myself. Redman says he hopes our fourth child will mellow me out. It’s going to be our first boy, you know. We know! They all chimed in. Before Marcella had retired to her room the previous night, she had spoken of nothing else but her fourth pregnancy with her first boy. They were all happy for her, but this weekend was about Diedra. I’m sorry. But this is the first time in years I have spent an entire weekend without my children or my husband. I never get any time for myself. You just wait! You’ll see what I mean. Marcella and her husband were married in Germany, while she was still a senior year in high school. It’s ok! We get itkind of. Cassandra reassured her. Some days I feel like my daughter and my husband are tag teaming me. Yeah, well multiply that by four. I feel like this baby has already jumped into the fray. I wouldn’t know about that. Shar mused. Marcella retrieved a small bottle of juice and a bag of pretzels from Cassandra’s bag. This will have to do. She settled back into an oversized armchair and began to devour the snack. That’s because your career is your husband. When are you and Breanna going to settle down? You’re not getting any younger. Breanna smiled provocatively and responded, Why would I settle down when there are so many men to enjoy? Shar was pensive, I want to get married and have a familysomeday. But right now, my law practice is my priority. I just don’t have time for the whole dating thing. Does Diedra have Sleep Apnea or something? China blurted. Yeah, it seemed like she stopped breathing a couple of times, Stephanie added. Cassandra shook her head, That’s not good. I’ve never noticed anything like that before. She seemed restless. Probably just stress, with the wedding coming up and all, Breanna replied. Cassandra shrugged, I guess that’s possible. She reached over and grabbed Diedra’s hand as she shook her once, more. How anyone could sleep with those train whistles blowing all night is beyond me. Diedra, wake up, she cajoled. Ouch! She’s sure got a vice grip on your hand, Sharnell observed. She must be having an intense dream. Who would have thought someone so tiny could be so strong? Cassandra whined. Ooh wait a minute. When we were roommates in college, Diedra used to sleep pretty hard sometimes. Let me try something. Breanna dug a face towel from her bag. She took the towel into the restroom and wet it with cold water. She wrung the excess water from the towel and brought it back into the room. I’m sorry Dee, but you’re going to like this a lot less than I am, she stifled a giggle as she held the cold, wet towel to her friend’s cheek. Diedra’s arms flailed wildly as she swatted the towel away from her face and cried out. Keep her away from me, James, Diedra gasped. Don’t lea her voice trailed off as she looked around the room at her friends. She slowly eased into a sitting position and wiped a hand across her damp cheek. Keep who away? Breanna placed her hand lightly over Diedra’s. I’m sorry, Dee. Sharnell retrieved the towel. We’ve been trying to wake you up for a while now. Breanna decided to try the old wet towel trick. She said she used to have to use it on you in college. Hmph, I taught her that trick. Okay! Okay! Let’s not get all caught up on who had to wake who up from a drunken stupor. Breanna interrupted. I’m concerned about you, Dee. She sat down next to Diedra on the bed. We’re all concerned. Are you okay? Cassandra watched her friend intently. Stephanie and China thought they noticed you’d stopped breathing. Diedra’s hand moved up to her chest. I, I think it was the dream. The dream? Yes. It was bizarre, almost like a nightmare. I dreamt we were on a train in Germany! You mean, like at the bahnhof? Breanna queried. Exactly! I was lost in the Munich Bahnhof. Marcella crumpled the pretzel bag and took a final swig from the juice bottle. Do you want to tell us about it? You know, sometimes dreams have meaning. Yeah, sometimes they mean you ate too late the night before. China scoffed. Diedra stretched her arms over her head and then rested her arms across her abdomen. I don’t think it was indigestion. I kind of think it did mean something, but I have no idea whatumm wedding jitters maybe. Maybe if you tell us about it we might be able to figure it out. My mom used to say dreams were just answers to unasked questions. I miss Lieutenant Thomas. Sharnell gazed at Breanna and sighed softly. Yes. Well, if my mom was still living, I know she’d be able to tell you what your dream meantI miss her every day. Breanna sighed deeply. She seemed to be lost in thought. What about you, Marcella? Sharnell asked. Me? Yes you. I seem to recall Redman telling me that you interpreted dreams before. Sometimes my husband talks too much. Marcella murmured. It’s not like that. I mean, like Breanna said, sometimes dreams are just answers to unasked questions. I simply helped figure out what the question was. It wouldn’t hurt to tell us about it would it? Cassandra asked. I mean, it wasn’t anything crazy was it? Breanna laughed nervously. It was surreal. It felt so real. Promise you won’t laugh. The ladies were captivated as Diedra recounted the details of her dream, including every detail, down to the three large rabbits. Diedra stopped speaking as she became aware of her friend’s reactions. Breanna’s jaw dropped slightly. For once, Cassandra was speechless. Sharnell cleared her throat. And Marcella closed her eyes and ducked her head ever so slightly. Ha, ha! No wonder you want to be a writer! You sure do have a wild imagination! Stephanie cried. I vote for indigestion! I was beginning to think maybe you had some sort of revelation, but that’s just crazy. Breanna released a nearly imperceptible sigh of relief. Me too, she whispered. Cassandra glanced at Breanna sharply, but said nothing. Dee, why in the world would you be dreaming about your babies’ daddy the night before your wedding to James? Cassie, I wasn’t dreaming about Derek. I mean, he was there, but the dream was not about him. And what about the lady with all the bags? What was that about? Stephanie asked. I told you the dream was bizarre. It was all over the place. I don’t understand any of it. The rabbits, Derek, the Munich train station none of it. We all know what rabbits mean. You’re not pregnant again are you? Seriously, China? Breanna gave her a playful shove. I think Diedra would have told me if she were pregnant? Maybe, maybe not. Cassandra interjected. We all have our little secrets. Not me! Breanna insisted. I’m an open book. If you say so. Is there something you want to say? Baggage. Marcella blurted out the word. What did you say? Baggage. We all have baggage. Maybe the lady in Diedra’s dream was a reference to past issues she needs to let go of before she steps into her future with James. She rubbed her swollen belly as she spoke. That’s plausible. Cassandra nodded in approval. I mean, sometimes we have a hard time embracing what’s in front of us because we keep looking behind us. You know, James said something like that in my dream Sometimes I find it hard to believe that he actually loves me and wants to spend the rest of his life with me. I guess that could be because of all my own issues, or baggage, not because of anything he’s ever done or said. See Marcella, I knew you had it in you. Sharnell ignored the familiar blush that crept across Marcella’s cheeks. You have to be more confident in the gifts God has given you, and embrace them. Marcella waved her off. We all have gifts and we all have a purpose. This weekend our collective purpose is to get Diedra to her wedding and help her launch into her God ordained destiny. A destiny none of us could have imagined back in Nurnberg. But right now, this morning, I just want to eat a huge breakfast. Are we going downstairs or are we going to call room service? Room Service? Diedra was mortified. That’s a bit much, she insisted. It’s bad enough you got a suite at the Victoria. We could have had the party at my parent’s house. With your twins underfoot? No. It’s your bachelorette party Dee. Don’t you worry about a thing. Breanna insisted. I’ve got this. Remember? Breanna, this just isn’t practical. You shouldn’t be wasting your inheritance on me. No worries. My mom was always frugaland as for dear old dad, if he never did anything else, which he didn’t, he did set me up financially. That’s all well and good. When you get married, you can be as extravagant as you like. Who says I’m ever going to get married? Most men are trifling. They can’t be trusted. I think you ladies got the last good men out there. Isn’t that right Shar? Uh, speak for yourself. Someday I will meet my Boaz. Boaz! You don’t need a Boaz. You are a successful woman in your own right. A rising star in Atlanta. He doesn’t necessarily have to be rich, or have to take care of me financially. I still want to be taken care. Emotionally, physically. You don’t have to be married to have that. No, you don’t have to be married to have that. Diedra! Are you crynin? Stephanie asked. Did you just say crynin? China asked her. Whatever! Why are you crynin? II Diedra took a deep breath and continued. After so many years of pining after the wrong man, I’m about to marry Mr. Right. She sniffed, and wiped a tear. James isn’t rich, but I don’t doubt that he will take care of me and the twins. The tears started to flow and Shar and Breanna both rushed to Diedra and hugged her. Breanna, I want you and Shar to find what I have. None of that. Breanna scolded. You don’t want to have puffy eyes on your wedding day. Besides, Dee, you didn’t find James, he found you. You’re right, she sniffed. Let me get a picture of you three, Cassandra pulled her disposable camera from her bag and snapped a shot of the trio before they could react. Now, you get in there, Marcella ordered as she snatched the camera from Cassandra. Let me get a shot of the four of you and then Stephanie and China can join in. Still bossy! Breanna murmured. What about you? She struck a pose as Marcella snapped a picture. No one wants to see the big pregnant lady. You’re Beautiful, Diedra exclaimed. Motherhood becomes you. Let’s all go take some pictures at the duck pond or Oxford Lake after breakfast. Thanks for reading. You can read more about Diedra and her friends in my current novel Dreams Of Tamar. Available at Amazon.com for 12.99. https://www.amazon.com/dp/0997930403/ref=nav_timeline_asin