Staring into the mirror, Hannah examined her face. There were tiny crow's feet around her eyes, but everything else was okay. Only thirty-five, the traumas in her life had, luckily, not had an effect on her appearance. There were a few highlights added to her hair, which was not so light anymore, but no other enhancements had been done.
Only thirty-five. It felt like much more time had passed. It had been an eventful life, so far. On the brink of another adventure, Hannah hoped that the problem with Anthony could be resolved. Thinking about the alternative was terrifying, so her mind moved on to other subjects.
Since moving back to Cartham, a new life had been built. But it was really only half a life. So much had been put on hold as the search for a cure occupied her time. Colleagues at work, and even some customers in the shop, had asked her out on a date. The reply was always, no. Looks, personality, eligibility were not considered. There was no time for romance.
Had the refusal also been about her experience with Carl? Most definitely. A relationship like that would deter the most optimistic of people from trying again. The chances of dating another man who was possessed by a demon and could change into a beast was remote, but one could never be too careful.
Smiling at the thought, mirror Hannah looked like a nice, normal person. Any prospective partner would have to be told a bit about her history. That was a major sticking point, as well. An image of men backing slowly away from her and then running for the hills, was formed. The smile in the reflection was now a little sad.
That first day that she met Carl was etched on her mind. How different would her life have been had she said no and walked on by? The powers of persuasion that he had, made it impossible for her to refuse. It was only with tragedy and maturity that she had been able to break the spell. Sixteen years old Hannah was defenceless.
What ifs would only drive her crazy. Her mind wasn't ready to give her a break yet, though. Now, her family were front and centre. It had been nearly eighteen years since she had last seen them. Carl had ripped her away and had then scuppered any chance of going back. That was cruel and devastating. Then there was Anthony.
A tear ran down the face of the woman in the mirror. Carl, prising the baby boy from her arms, giving that sweet smile, softly telling her it was for the best, was a recurring nightmare. Weak with exhaustion, beguiled and helpless, the child was released. That was the greatest regret of her life.
Okay, think about good things. Jane. A surrogate mother, a friend, her rock, the voice of reason, and so much more. The tireless companion, who had fought alongside her to find a way to save Anthony. It seemed right that she was involved in the process of bringing him to her side.
Edward was a stranger until yesterday. Why did it feel like he had been a life-long friend? It was because he was in the right place, too. Yes, they had their own reasons for doing the ritual, but Anthony was on all their minds. A small prayer was said for the safety of her two friends.
It was 3am and sleep had eluded her up until now. Best have another attempt and go back to bed. Tomorrow might be a momentous day. Then again, it might be an ordinary and, therefore, disappointing day. That feeling, instinct, call it what you will, was telling Hannah that the summoning had worked.
Moving away from the mirror, Hannah went to her wardrobe. What should she wear to meet the son that she had not seen for nearly sixteen years? Maybe not try to hard. A pair of jeans, T shirt and a jacket. Laying the items on a chair, ready for use, it was time to try and sleep again.
One more prayer before closing her eyes. The Gods had been asked for an awful lot lately, but it was worth a try. Bring Anthony to her. The chance to see him was a gift, but there was more. Let him be safe. Having said her piece, a fitful sleep was achieved.
Back in front of the mirror the next morning, Hannah saw a tired, but determined woman. Today would bring them a step closer to their goal. The summoning. It sounded portentous and grand, but it was just a few words. Nodding at her reflection, Hannah headed for the kitchen, where her co conspirators were likely drinking tea.