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Date Posted: 06:18:53 11/17/05 Thu
Author: KT
Author Host/IP: dialup-4.227.181.206.Dial1.Denver1.Level3.net / 4.227.181.206
Subject: The Road To Paris - Part 9
In reply to: KT 's message, "The Road To Paris - more" on 06:13:37 11/17/05 Thu

The Road To Paris - Part 9
By KT


Stretched out in front of the fire reading was how George found his compatriot when he emerged from his revitalizing ablutions. Adrian was on her stomach, propped up on her elbows, studiously poring over some papers, an empty open binder at her side. He moved closer, then mimicked her pose to get a better look. She glanced over at him, an excited smile gracing her features. George made a breathy sound as he recognized what she had discovered.

"Aahhh. Well!" He grinned back at her, his chin cupped the palms of his hands.

"Quite a find, wouldn't you agree?"

"Very nice indeed."

The papers were hand-made maps of the region, and provided not only roads and distances between places, but also local landmarks. Most valuable! These were far more detailed than the maps they had been given. They continued to study, and discussed their plan for travel in the next few days. At last, the fire and the baths began to take their toll. George carefully folded the maps and placed them back into the binder. He rose and stowed them in his rucksack, put several large logs on the fire, then returned to the makeshift bed.

"Let's get some rest, eh?"

But Adrian was already sound asleep. He gently pulled the covers over her, then crept in and lay down on his side, watching the shadows created by the fire's crackling embers play across her weary face. He moved closer to her, then placed his arm across her waist, and kissed her lightly on the forehead. The faint scent of the lavender bath still lingered about her. His eyes closed at last, and they passed the night in peace.

In the morning, they rose and made the house neat, returning the blankets to the closet and setting the kitchen in order. If anyone else came, they would think that the people were simply away for the day. A quick breakfast of the leftover biscuits and dried meat made them feel ready to face the world again. The hot baths, the good food, and the comfort of the fire had done their work, and they took their leave, setting out on the road to Paris.

They closed the door to their refuge and crossed the yard. George paused at the edge of the fence, taking Adrian's hand in his, then pulling her against him in a tight embrace. They shared a passionate kiss, then said their silent farewells to the house, and to the copper tub that had given them respite, had filled them with renewed purpose. Setting off hand in hand, they never looked back, grateful for the kindness of Providence. But the farmhouse and its former occupants stayed in their minds for many months.

***

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