Annie's Promise

Her mind was taking over and she couldn’t stop thinking about the past. Getting involved with the FBI again was the last thing she had ever wanted to do, but she couldn’t help it. There was no one in the states that she could trust. Her mind wandered through memories that belonged in the graveyard. She knew that somewhere in the back of her brain, beautiful memories still existed and they were the ones that were begging her to let them stay.

Carl revved the engine a few times revealing that he was still hot under the collar. Anne stopped shivering and kicked off her shoes. She pushed them aside, moved one foot around to the source of heat and placed both feet there.

Kat was exhausted with no desire to engage in conversation with anyone. Carl sensing her hostility, kept quiet and continued to ease the limo down the grassy knoll toward the exit.

Anne just couldn’t let things rest. She was determined to aggravate Kat by telling her what was on her mind.

"There was a time in my life when it was pleasant to remember the past. But now, when I think back to my association with this limousine and all that it stands for, it’s too hard. I wish I were stronger, Kat. How does one pluck out the best from the past and remember it first? That is a lot of bull, it is hard to take hurt and put it second. Why does pain always take precedence over joy?"

Kat was trying to dry Anne’s hair with a towel that she took from the hidden bar and without pausing, she answered sympathetically,

"I don’t know sweetie. I just don’t know the answer to that."

When the limo cruised through the cemetery gate Anne felt compelled to turn and take another look. The expression on her face reflected her thoughts.

"She did put me first, Kat. I know how much she loved me. But I cannot help wonder how she could have done such a thing to me.” She continued driving herself crazy with mixed emotions.

Lena’s life had always revolved around Anne. Her whole existence had been dedicated to her well-being. Anne stretched her body to take one last look and a little voice inside of her was saying.

"Remember dear, when your burdens are too heavy; take it to the Lord in prayer."

She smiled knowing that those were Lena’s words.

Lena did live her Christianity and Anne had been an active part of it since early child-hood. Lena was the one who taught her how to cope when things got rough and where to go for comfort.

"Get out of your body and into the spirit." Lena had said.

"Let Him carry you through your darkest hour," had been one of her favorite expressions. Remembering those words comforted her.

Just outside of the cemetery, the limo cruised over a speed bump.

It lifted the women from their seats and set them down with a jolt interrupting Anne's train of thought. The warmth of the limo, combined with the thumping of the windshield wipers made her sleepy.

Already physically done in, she quickly submitted.

Anne was irritated with the suggestion and she snarled an answer.

"I'm not the least bit hungry."

"You need something hot in your stomach. You’ve been chilled to the bone." Kat reminded her.

Anne didn’t answer, but Carl jumped in with both feet.

"Hey, what do you say we get some food? I don’t know about you two, but I’m running on empty."

He glanced in the rear view mirror looking for some sign, but neither woman responded. He looked again, this time Kat gave him a nod of approval. A short time later, he brought the limo into a restaurant parking lot. When he got out, Anne asked in a brashly tone.

"Carl, would you mind getting my blue bag from the trunk?"

"Sure, it’s not a problem."

When he handed it to her, she said “Thank you,” in a barely audible tone. Not caring if he heard her or not, she disappeared into the rest room to change.

"It feels good to be warm and dry." She remarked looking in the mirror running her fingers through her hair. She gathered her wet clothes and still fluffing her hair, she started back to the limo.

"Kat, I'm not going in to eat. Would you mind bringing me a cup of soup and a few crackers when you’re finished? I would appreciate it. Soup is all I can get down right now."

Kat was concerned about leaving her alone and asked again.

"Are you sure you won’t come in and sit with us? You know we have a lot of catching up to do."

"I know, but I'm tired. I just don't feel up to it right now."

"Alright, lock the doors. We won't be long."

"Thanks for understanding, Kiddo.” After locking the doors, she put her jacket around her shoulders and fell asleep.

When they returned from the restaurant it was pitch black. Carl rapped on the window with the back of his hand. The sharp sound of his ring hitting the glass brought Anne to an instant sitting position. It