Cracked Ice - Part 10

“CRACKED ICE” by Leora Tozer © 2014 - Part 10 

The morning went by quickly. I typed quite a few answers for Leo’s letters. He briefly checked them over and signed them. I was able to get a lot done before the mail went out mid-morning. 

After a brief lunch outside with my book, I felt newly focused and energized. I was able to start on a few templates, which I planned on sharing with them for additions and approvals. As I was typing the second template, Henry popped his head out of his office and asked with a grin, “So, you’re answering those without me?” 

“I thought I’d quote your movie lines to create the answers,” I teased back, smiling at him. “When you have time, I can show you what I have done so far and how it would work,” I continued. 

He looked around the office and asked, “So where are my lazy brothers?” 

“I don’t know where your lazy brothers are,” I answered, “but Art and Leo were in for at least an hour, and now are gone for lunch. Don’t you need lunch?” 

“I had lunch. Come in with those letters.” Henry directed. 

I brought in the templates, a couple of fan letters, a notebook, and pen with hope my plan would work for this project. 

I entered the office. Henry shut the door and went to sit down at his desk. I sat on the chair across the desk from him. He moved the notebook and pen he had in front of him into the right desk drawer. 

He read the first letter template and then I showed him the letter and where I would need a few answers. 

He looked at me and stated, “This isn’t working at all.” 

I wasn’t surprised that he might not approve, but was shocked that he did so quickly. I answered, “I know it won’t work for all letters, but if it would help with even 20%...” 

“No, that’s not what I meant,” he said. 

“What’s not working?” I asked, slightly confused. 

“This seating arrangement,” he responded in a flirtatious way. “It’s difficult to work on this when you’re all the way over there.” 

“I can move the chair,” I said, standing up. 

He reached out and lightly held my hand. 

“Don’t you realize when a man is trying to get closer to you.” 

“But men don’t make passes at a girl wearing glasses,” I retorted. 

He asked, “What if it’s a boy in glasses?” 

He held my hand with a gentle, but steady grip; I looked at him from across the desk. There was a definite look I hadn’t seen him give me before. I felt a slight butterfly tremor flow through me. I took a small breath in and asked, “So, where should I sit?” 

"Where do you think?” he asked softly. 

We couldn’t seem to break our eye contact. It’s nature; the chemical interaction between a man and a woman attracted to each other. Ever since the kiss yesterday, I wanted to find some reason to touch him. My body swayed slightly at the thought of sitting on his lap. 

I moved around the desk while he kept claim of my hand. When I sat on his lap, he let go of my hand. My head was turned so my right ear was near his mouth. I could barely breathe; he whispered, “Now you’re right where you belong.” 

I gave a small nod in agreement. As I sat there, I felt an odd sense of relief; relief that I wasn’t ignoring my own feelings. A whole new emotion flooded my senses into overdrive. The sexual energy could have lit the whole room, even though no words were being exchanged. 

“So, you wanted to show me the letters?” Henry asked. 

I picked up the first template and a couple of letters. I read it out loud while he slowly caressed my back. 

“You seem tense. I should find a way to relax you,” he teased. 

Feeling his breath on my neck was sending waves of longing through my whole body. As his fingertips explored my neck, stomach and sides of my waist through my dress, I felt myself ache with a deep desire I hadn’t experienced in a long time. 

After reading a letter, I leaned back onto his shoulder. 

“Whatcha thinking about, honey?” Henry asked. 

I smiled and leaned in to softly kiss his neck, as I caressed his chest through his white cotton shirt. 

I felt jangled up, and knew I needed to leave the office soon. I intuitively knew he was a man who felt he should be in control. However, my attraction was stronger than I realized. I knew I had to control myself from going further. If a woman was too forward, I felt certain it would be an automatic turn-off for him. 

I was vibrating like a tuning fork and trying to decide how I could get up and leave. Fortunately, I heard Leo and Art’s voices when they entered the outer office. I could hear Art say, “I’ll need to ask Henry about that.” 

I quickly stood up, grabbed the letters from the desk, and took two steps from the desk. Art opened Henry’s office door. 

“Didn’t you learn how knock?” Henry grumbled to his brother. 

Art replied with a smile, “Knocking’s only needed for bathrooms and bedrooms.” 

“I was just leaving. Thank you for going over these letters with me,” I stated. I walked out of the office and closed the door behind me. 

I sat the letters on the desk and walked down the hall to the bathroom. I splashed cool water on my face to try to calm my reeling mind. After drying my face, I realized I needed to go outside for fresh air and a short walk. 

I can’t believe myself. I’ve never ever done something like this while at work. 

I’m walking outside lost in thought, and suddenly felt my soul being hugged by another soul. I had already walked around the building at least three or four times when someone tapped my elbow. “Hey, you alright?” Art asked kindly. 

“Oh, I’m fine,” I answered. He started walking next to me. 

“Most fine folks don’t walk laps around buildings.” “I just needed some fresh air to think,” I replied. 

He nodded, “Henry can cause most people to run for the hills from time to time. But, overall, he’s good.” 

“I wasn’t upset by anything he said. He seems so serious at times,” I replied in a concerned way. 

“He worries,” Art stated, “so the rest of us don’t have to. He’d worry even if we did.” 

I nodded, “Some folks feel like they have to carry the weight of the world on their shoulders.” 

We stopped walking. Art looked around quickly to see if anyone else was outside. When he saw no one around, he commented, “Those are the people who should enjoy life when they can. Henry has no peace at home.” 

“It’s strange how right and wrong seemed so clear cut when I was young. Why is that?” I asked. 

Art smiled, “We all knew so much less as kids. What’s right for most? Things unknown don’t necessarily cause troubles.” 

I touched his arm and smiled, “Thank you for your wisdom.” He smiled back and whispered, “Don’t forget, 10pm.” 

I didn’t realize where we had stopped to talk. Henry had watched through his office window while Art and I had this confidential talk. Henry could only see the body language, of me touching Art’s arm, not realizing that it was in the spirit of friendship.




To be continued...

Cracked Ice ~ Part 9.75

"CRACKED ICE” by Leora Tozer © 2013 - Part 9.75 

Ten in the evening and I should be heading for bed. I slip on my coat and shoes. I still felt a bit jangled up from the office, so I decided it’s time for a walk. 

I slipped out the front door and closed it carefully behind me. I walked down the sidewalk, listening to my heels clipping on the cement. The sky was clear, with the moon shining brightly on the sidewalk. 

I walked fast and was several blocks from the boarding house. I wasn’t looking out at the street, just focused on the sidewalk ahead and my thoughts. 

The sky opened up and rain poured down. The air was warm enough, so it didn’t feel cold at first. I felt stress ease from my shoulders as the rain drops fell on me. 

The rain got heavier and I realized I wasn’t sure how far from the house I was. I needed to turn around. My shirt and skirt were starting to feel heavy from the water soaking into them. I turned around and saw a two-toned 1931 Caddy Roadster slowly driving next to me. 

It stopped and the passenger window opened up a crack. 

“Benson, hop in.”

I opened the car door and slid in. “You realize your car’s going to get soaking wet from me.” I felt a bit self-conscious. Certainly Art noticed the soaked cotton shirt clinging to me. 

As I shut the door, Art handed me a beach towel and smiled, “That’s a chance I’m willing to take.” 

“Why do you have a towel in your car?” 

Art turned the car around and answered, “I’m always ready, in case I want to go for a swim.” 

I looked puzzled, “What about a bathing suit?” 

Art smiled, “We always have bathing suits under our clothes, don’t we?” 

As we talked, I noticed he drove past the boarding house. “Hey, aren’t you going to take me home?” 

“If you’re out walking in the rain at 10:30 at night, you don’t want to go home,” Art answered. 

“Not necessarily. Perhaps the walk and the rain helped me enough so I could get some sleep,” I said. 

My slightly nervous hands gave me away. “Do you want to go home?” Art asked. 

I looked at him, studying his profile as he drove, “No, I don’t.” 

“So, where to?” 

“If you want, we could drive around and talk. I should go home after a bit.” Yes, I felt a certain kinship to Art and definitely find him attractive. Yet, I was too keyed up after giving Henry a massage, and thought it best to be by myself tonight. 

Art thought a moment, “How about if we drive around and talk tonight? And if you promise me something.” 

“Depends upon what you want me to promise,” I replied. 

“Will you go with me to explore a new nightclub tomorrow night?” Art asked. 

“I don’t see anything wrong that,” I replied, “As long as we can keep that between us.” I thought Leo would be bugging me much more if he heard that Art took me out. 

“No problem,” Art said. The particular club that he wanted to check out wasn’t the type of place he would mention to his brothers anyways. 

As we drove around town and chatted the rain stopped. Fortunately, my mind was distracted and I felt relaxed. 

“Do you want to get a Mile High?” Art asked. 

“Wait…a what?” I responded. 

“Oh, you’ll see; we’re almost there,” Art answered. 

A few blocks later, he pulled the car to a lighted ice cream stand with a large “Mile High” cone. The place seemed very busy for such a late hour. We each ordered an ice cream cone and spent time eating our ice cream and people watching from his car. 

We didn’t really talk much; it seemed we were both listening to the chatter of other people’s conversations. Sometimes when hearing other people’s snippets of conversation, I can imagine what their back-story is, or what happens after the conversation. 

Art leaned back into his seat and watched the people milling around the ice cream stand. This wasn’t an uncomfortable silence. He realized he’s been hanging around too much with actresses and chorus girls, who tend to chatter to fill up the silence. 

He shifted in his seat and watched Leora lick her ice cream cone. She seemed lost in thought, watching the people and listening to the activity around the car. He touched her shoulder, “How’s the ice cream?” 

“It’s delectable,” Leora stated. She couldn’t remember ice cream ever tasting this fresh. Her lips were starting to feel numb from the cold ice cream. 

“So, time to take you home?” Art said. Leora nodded yes. 

Due to the night air and eating so much ice cream, Leora started shivering slightly. Art backed out of the parking space and turned out into the road. He noticed her shivering and draped his right arm around her shoulders. 

Leora felt warm from this small gesture. She occasionally glanced at him while he drove her home. He pulled up to the boarding house. She reached for the door and he said, “Wait.” 

“Yes?” Leora asked. 

“One small hug to warm you up,” Art said. 

“Of course,” Leora replied. His arms wrapped around her shoulders so quickly, and she hugged him back. She quietly said, “Thank you for the outing and the ice cream.” 

“Don’t forget, tomorrow we’ll explore another night spot,” Art smiled. Leora smiled back and slipped out of the car. 

She walked down the sidewalk to the house, turned around mid-way and waved to Art. He waved back, then drove away.

Cracked Ice - Part 9.5

“CRACKED ICE” by Leora Tozer © 2013 Part 9.5 {Week 2, Tuesday afternoon}

I felt as though a lot of work was completed this morning. Art and Leo left for lunch and for their usual afternoon pursuits. I ate a sandwich at my desk and went back to work. 

After having lunch at home, Henry was agitated. He appeared stressed out when he quickly breezed by my desk. 

After a couple of minutes, I walked over and softly knocked on his office door. “Do you want a cup of tea?” I asked. 

“No, thanks for asking,” Henry answered, looking a bit surprised. 

“Is there anything I can do to help?” I said. 

“Can you turn back time?” he asked. 

“Did you try turning your watch hands backwards? Or does your watch need winding?” I replied. 

“No, but maybe you need winding,” he remarked. 

“No, not today. Can we put that on the schedule for next Tuesday?” I joked. He still seemed out of sorts to me. “I know something that might help you,” I said. I went to my desk and found the Jergen’s lotion. 

I walked back into Henry’s office and closed the door. 

Henry had about 50 different scenes in his mind when he saw Leora enter the office with the hand lotion. He decided to wait and see what would happen. 

“Would you mind if I tried a de-stressing technique on you?” I asked. “I haven’t been trained in this, but a friend of mine had taken some classes and she used to practice on me.” 

Henry’s eyes lit up, “That would have been entertaining to see.” 

“Not the type of fun you’re imagining,” I shook my head with a slight smile. “I’ll be rubbing lotion on your shoulders. Do you want to take off your shirt?” I asked. 

“Maybe I should lock the door,” Henry said. 

“It’s not necessary,” I replied. 

“If I pull the shades, I’ll take off anything you ask,” Henry gave me a friendly leer. 

“I promise, I won’t ask you to take off anything else,” I stated. 

“A boy can dream, can’t he?” Henry asked. 

“Dream all you like. You’re lucky you’re getting a shoulder massage,” I replied. 

“Yeah, Leo was complaining. But you’re right, he’s never stressed,” Henry smiled. It was refreshing to see a dame not fall for Leo’s usual tricks. 

When Henry took off his jacket and shirt, he noticed me diverting my eyes. He started teasing me, “Now, don’t look.” 

I laughed. “Where would it be most comfortable for you to sit?” I asked. 

“Your lap,” he replied. 

“If you’re going to be difficult, I’ll just go home,” I retorted. 

As I feigned turning around, he grabbed my hand. “I think you like it.”

“Perhaps. But, I’m not used to it,” I admitted. I could get jangled up too easily around him. I made a conscious decision to be a healing source of comfort today. 

He sat down in his office chair. “I’m ready. Just don’t hurt me.” 

“I’m not here to hurt anyone,” I replied. 

Henry closed his eyes. I had a small bit of lotion on my fingertips. I pressed gently and massaged his forehead by starting in the middle of his forehead and moving my index fingers towards his temples. His eyes flickered open and looked at me with a studied wariness, as if he was not used to random acts of kindness from a woman. 

“I can stop if it hurts or you have discomfort. Just let me know,” I calmly stated. Reassured, Henry closed his eyes again. 

I applied lotion to his shoulder, starting with a gentle pressure, and gradually increased it. At first, Henry seemed guarded, but as I worked on his shoulders, I could feel the built-up stress melting away. 

Even though I was being as professional as possible, I felt such an electric energy build up between us. “Would it be more comfortable if you lie down on the couch?” I asked after a bit. 

His eyes opened and he looked at me with a quiet purpose. I knew what he was thinking of; his eyes gave it away. I looked at him carefully, my eyes attempting to hide my attraction to him. 

“Will you be my blanket?” he teased. 

I asked back, “Do I qualify as a comforter?” After a moment, I clarified, “You might be more comfortable lying on your stomach when I massage your lower back.” 

Henry stood up, and as he passed his office door, he stealthily locked it. I was preoccupied with getting the lotion and a small towel moved over to the small table near the couch. 

He lay down on the couch and looked up at me, “OK, do whatever you like with me. Just don’t tie me up in knots.” 

“You already have knots. I’m here to untie them.” I replied. 

I poured lotion on my hands and spread it on his back. I started on his shoulders again and finished working the stress out of his shoulders. As I moved down his back, I was able to release the stress from his back. When I finished, I carefully removed the excess lotion from his back with the small towel. 

I put my hand on his shoulder and said softly, “You can sit up if you like.” 

Henry raised himself up and sat on the couch. He seemed a bit reserved as he watched me grab the lotion bottle and take a step towards him. I sat down on the couch next to him. 

“There’s something else I’d like to try,” I said. 

I covered my left hand with lotion, and took hold of Henry’s right hand. Starting with his pinkie, I worked on each finger, surrounding it, and pulling it slightly to work out the stress. Henry just watched me as I concentrated on his hand. As I was wrapping my hand around his index finger, Henry slipped his hand from my grip. 

His hands touched my face, and raised it up, so I was looking directly into his eyes. He moved his face close; I moved closer to him, as his lips gently, tentatively touched mine. He held my chin and kissed me, first softly, then deeper. My lips responded in kind. It felt like we’ve kissed before, perhaps in a long ago dream. 

Before the kissing became too intense, Henry stopped and let go of my face. I felt flushed and excited as we both looked at each other a few moments. I stood up from the couch and walked to the door. I wanted to kiss him again, but I didn’t tell him. I unlocked the door, slipped out of the office, and walked down the hall, into the bathroom. 

I turned on the tap and splashed cool water on my face. I dried my face and stood straight up. As I became more aware of my body, I could feel a strange invisible pulling in my stomach. I closed my eyes a moment to meditate and attempt to figure out what this odd sensation could mean. 

After a few deep breaths, I knew I would need to sort my feelings out later away from the office. I went back to my desk, and sat in my chair. Still feeling jangled up, I found my next typing project and started typing. 

Henry’s door was closed. I didn’t know if I’d see him the rest of the day; it seemed so still. I typed two letters and after an hour, decided I was too distracted and should leave a bit early. I put away my stuff and walked to my Yellow Car stop, knowing I’d have a lot to mull over at home tonight.

Cracked Ice - Part 9

“CRACKED ICE” by Leora Tozer © 2013 Part 9 {Week 2, Tuesday morning}

Art arrived to the office mid-morning and he seemed very more subdued than usual. I sensed something was wrong without even looking at him, so I went to his office to check in with him.

When I asked, Art told me that his shoulder felt a bit sore, that he’d strained it practicing a new bit. I told him I’d be right back.

I grabbed a bottle of Jergen’s hand lotion from my desk drawer and came back into his office. I said, “I’m not a trained masseuse, but my friend who took massage classes used to practice on me. Can I try a couple of massage techniques on your shoulder?”

“It wouldn’t hurt to try,” Art replied.

“If it does hurt, I’ll stop,” I informed him.

I poured some lotion on my hands and rubbed them together. Then I slid my hand under his shirt and rubbed the lotion on his left shoulder, first with a gentle pressure.

“Wait,” he said. I stopped. Art slipped off his shirt. “OK, you can continue,” he said, smiling.

I continued by increasing the pressure, and I could feel his shoulder relax. I repeated the process with his right shoulder and then did some gentle circular motions on his vertebrae up and down his neck and upper back. I could feel the room light up with a bright spiritual energy. I felt as sense of peace through this new energy force.

Art touched my hand and stopped the massage. He smiled, “Thank you. This really helped.”

“Can I try one more thing that might help your shoulders?” I asked.

“Sure,” he said.

I sat in a chair facing him and put more lotion in my hand. “Please give me your right hand.” I said.

He gives me his hand, as if he was bashful, and looked up smiling, his eyelashes fluttering at me. I surrounded each finger with my lotioned hand, slightly pulling at each finger. Art started making faces at me, as if I were hurting him.

“Do you want me to stop?” I asked.

“No,” he said, shaking his head.

“A massage teacher told me that by doing this, it will help a person’s neck and shoulders, since everything is connected,” I explained.

I finished massaging his right hand, and asked for his left hand. I applied some lotion and did the same as I had for the right hand, starting with his pinkie. As was working on his left hand, Leo came into Art’s office.

“Hey, I’m stressed too,” Leo said.

I stood up and said, “Turn around.” I felt his neck. “No, no stress here.”

Leo turned around and looked at me. “I can think of some things that need massaging in my office,” Leo said.

“Well, I can loan you my lotion. Just close the door,” I replied. Leo couldn’t figure this chick out. Most women succumbed to his advances very easily. This one seemed impervious to his charms. Easy come, easy go, Leo thought.

“Nah, that’s alright,” Leo remarked. Art laughed as Leo left his office.

I finished massaging Art’s left hand. “Are you alright now?” I asked Art.

“Yes,” Art answered, as he was putting his shirt back on. “You’d be handy to keep around here, especially when we’re filming.”

“That’s kind of you to say,” I replied. I went back to my desk and put the lotion back into the drawer.

I spent the rest of the morning drafting letters and returning phone calls Everyone else seemed busy as well.

“Cracked Ice” - Part 8.5

“CRACKED ICE” by Leora Tozer © 2013 Part 8.5 {Week 2, Monday evening}

I kept busy with the letters and didn’t try to think about the meeting tonight. As I was putting things away for the day, I wondered who we’d meet and which restaurant we’re going to. Henry said a note taker was needed for the business dinner with a writer, since the movie studio was in a hurry for the brothers to make their next movie. I made sure to have a couple of pens and a notepad in my satchel.

It was after 6:30pm when he parked his car on Vine Street. We walked by a gift shop* next to the Brown Derby. I stood on my tip-toes and tried to peek in the window, but couldn’t see much since it was closed for the evening.

“Are you planning on breaking in after dinner?” Henry asked.

“No. Have you ever thought about owning a store?” I asked him.

“Not really,” He smiled. “I like performing too much. Why? What type of store do you see me owning?”

I thought a moment as we walked, “A bookstore. You could write and talk with authors.”

“And what would you be doing?” he teased.

“You mean after the bookkeeping’s done? I’d be in the back typing out the next great American novel,” I replied.

“Do you think anyone would read it?” Henry inquired.

“Who knows? I just want to write. To have something completed would be fulfilling enough for me.” I answered. “Of course, if a few people find enjoyment with it, that’s a bonus.”

We walked into the Brown Derby. While we were waiting to secure our table, I excused myself to freshen up in the bathroom. When I washed my hands in the bathroom, I saw Carole Lombard walking in. I tried not to stare; I didn’t want to appear star-struck by anyone.

I applied some lipstick, quickly dried my hands, and walked out of the bathroom. Henry and I went to the 2nd level to sit in one of the booths. After we settled in and I was looking at the menu, the maître d came and brought a message to Henry.

Henry looked at the paper and stuck it in his jacket pocket. “Looks like its just dinner for the two of us. The writer canceled,” Henry said.

“Well, we don’t have to stay if the writer not coming. I’m sure you have better things to do than have dinner with me,” I replied.

“Maybe I’ll have better things to do after having dinner with you,” Henry replied with a wink.

I quickly retreated to my menu to gather my thoughts. Was there a writer or is that just a story? Did he plan this little excursion just to take me out? And why did Art know about it? I had to stay to find out what’s going on. Besides, I was happy for the chance to get to know Henry better away from the office.

“So many choices. What are you having?” I asked.

“Wouldn’t you like to know? Wait and see,” he replied.

The waiter came in a few minutes to take our order.

Henry looked at me and stated, “I suppose you're going to tell him who I am.”

I looked at the waiter with big eyes and stated, “This is Mr. Henry J. Jones. I’m Ms. Smith, his assistant. We really appreciate being able to eat here tonight with so many important folks.”

Henry looked surprised, as if he wasn’t expecting this type of introduction. The waiter smiled and asked, “What would you like to order?” I ordered Chicken broth with homemade noodles with a small salad and Henry ordered a Derby Deluxe.

We talked while waiting for our food. He told me about all of the years he had to be on the road with his brothers and how he likes to be here in Hollywood, because he can go home every night. Of course, he doesn’t plan on settling here, because New York is home.

I told him how I only planned to be here a short while. {Fortunately, the Time Travel Agency had me prepare and practice my back story. I was surprised how easily I could tell it.}

I was working temporarily in Hollywood to send money back home to my kids in the Midwest. I had been divorced 5 years, and but had lost my job when my employer’s business closed.

“That would be hard to be away from the kids,” Henry sympathized.

“It is, but I know they are in good hands. Their grandparents are with them every day. I’m really fortunate they are there to help,” I said.

“So, your parents?” Henry asked.

I shook my head, “No, my ex-husband’s parents. They are good folks.”

The waiter came and brought our food, and I welcomed a break in the conversation. I didn’t mean for the conversation to get so serious.

I tasted the soup; it was homemade and had incredible flavor. Most food back home is over processed, salty and not fresh. I’d forgotten how food should properly taste.

Henry thought about what she said as he watched Leora with his peripheral vision. He didn’t know many people who liked their in-laws, much less their ex-in-laws. Something is very different about her. He wasn’t used to women who liked to read, or who didn’t seem impressed by the Hollywood glitz. He’d have to wait and see how the next few days would go at the office; ‘most likely,’ he thought, ‘I’ll write her off like the rest of her kind.’ After we finished our dinner and he paid the bill, we were walking out of the Derby.

Henry asked, “Do you want to go to Field’s house for a drink?”

“Oh, I don’t drink alcohol,” I replied.

“Don’t you have any bad habits at all?” he asked.

“You mean, besides slurping my soup?” I responded.

“The quietest slurper in the west,” he answered.

“Tell me one bad habit.”

“How about two? Snoring and chocolate,” I replied.

“Those don’t count. Come on,” he insisted.

"Maybe when you know me better, you’ll tell me,” I said. After all, I knew his reputation of putting people in their place. His wit on and off screen, was legendary.

“OK then, I’ll drive you home,” he offered.

“Thanks for offering, but no. I like riding the street car home. It’s fun to people watch,” I answered. I thanked him for dinner and said I’d see him in the office tomorrow.

While Henry drove home, he partly wished he was driving Leora to his home. However, he knew it wasn’t the right time. He wanted to make sure, both of himself and of her. Besides, every time he teases her, he feels charged up. This was a new experience, having his mind attracted to a woman just as much as his body is.



     *There was a Cantor Gift Shop next to Brown Derby, but uncertain if it was there in 1932.

Cracked Ice - Part 8

“CRACKED ICE” by Leora Tozer © 2013 Part 8 {Week 2, Monday} 

On Sunday evening after supper, the Temp Agency called me and stated that I should be at the Archers' office by 8 am. I had the realization that Ms. Roy must have suggested to them that I have Friday off, so I could have a few days to adjust to this experience. The time off helped me feel more grounded. 

Through the reflection and rest during the weekend, I felt reconnected to myself. I felt confident as I walked into the office Monday morning. I sat at my desk and set my satchel on the floor next to the desk. I found a letter to work on and started typing. Henry rushed out of his office to find out who was making the noise. 

“Oh, so you decided to join us this morning,” Henry remarked to Leora, while rocking back and forth on his heels. “What made you think you could skip Friday?” 

I looked at him calmly. “The Temp Agency told me to stay home on Friday. I thought you asked them to get rid of me. Imagine my surprise when I was called to come back.” 

Henry remembered the friend who suggested using the TTTA had stated that sometimes the Agency would be unpredictable, but it was worth it due to having a highly qualified employee. 

“Well, I suppose you can continue working this time. Next time, I might not be so understanding,” Henry stated. 

I smiled, “Do you think there’s a whole line of goofy people willing to work in these conditions?” 

“What conditions?” Henry asked. 

“Work being impeded by card games, chair races and other distractions,” I claimed. Of course, I wasn’t going to mention that my main distraction was standing right in front of me. 

“I’ll need to supervise you more closely to make sure you get your work done,” Henry suggested with a smile. He looked at Leora for a moment, thinking of a few different ways he’d like to supervise her. He was about to mention one way when Leo barged into the office. 

“Hey,” Leo exclaimed. “She’s back! See Henry, even though you tried, you didn’t scare her away.” 

I smiled at Leo. “Good morning. I’ve been through scarier things than last week and survived.” Henry stepped back into his office as I talked with Leo. 

“Yah, you’re a smart cookie,” Leo stated. “Much smarter than Henry’s used to.” 

“Do you want some coffee?” I asked Leo. “Sure,” Leo said. 

I walked into to the next room, where there was a small aluminum coffee pot on a hotplate. I found a white coffee cup, poured some and brought it to Leo in his office. 

Leo smiled, “Glad you’re back. Henry was extra cranky on Friday.” 

“With the Temp Agency telling me to stay home, I didn’t know I’d be missed here,” I answered. 

“No problem. Work any day should be optional,” Leo stated. 

 It was strange how everything fell into a comfortable pattern. In the morning, I prepped the letters, organized things, and answered the phone. The morning went by fast. When it was noon, I went outside and read a book while eating a sandwich. After lunch, I went back to work on the letters. Occasionally, I found myself staring at Henry’s office door, wondering what was keeping him so busy. 

On Monday afternoon, Art walked into the office. He noticed Benson was lost in thought, staring at Henry’s office door. Art didn’t think too much of it until he walked into Henry’s office. Henry was leaning on his desk and staring at the office door, but shook himself out of a trance when Art walked in. 

Art smiled to himself as he decided to have some fun with Henry. “I’m going to ask Benson out for dinner tonight. Where should I take her?” 

Henry looked at his brother, not sure he could believe what he just heard. “You mean Leora, out there?” Henry pointed towards the door. 

“Yah,” Art smiled. 

Henry’s mind was quick. “I’ll need her to take notes at a dinner meeting with a writer tonight,” Henry stated. “You’ll have to go to your little black book for a dinner partner.” 

“Oh. No problem,” Art said, feigning slight disappointment. “I’ll have to go make some calls.” 

Art walked out of Henry’s office and shut the door behind him. He started whistling, but stopped after he passed her desk. “Hey Benson,” Art said, smiling. “Hope you’ll enjoy dinner tonight.” He thought she looked puzzled. 

I was making edits on a letter when Art said something about enjoying dinner. I didn’t know what he meant, and didn’t get a chance to ask him before he was out the door. 

A moment later, Henry stuck his head out of his office. “Leora, can you work tonight? I need you with for a dinner meeting with a writer.” 

I looked at him and answered, “Yes Mr. Archer.” 

He looked at me slyly and whispered, “Weren’t you going to call me Henry…or Tiger?” He went back into his office to make a phone call.

Cracked Ice - Part 7

“CRACKED ICE” by Leora Tozer © 2013 Part 7 

I was told by the Temp Agency to take Friday off and was encouraged to go out and see the sights. I have a lot to think about, so I didn’t feel like going out. Partly, I was worried that I wouldn’t have a job next week. Perhaps I had offended one of my bosses. The Archers had a reputation of being difficult to work for. I also felt like my soul was being pulled in a couple of different directions. 

I was hoping to get chance to talk with the boarding house owner Nellie E. Roy, since she works for the T.T.A. I wanted to make sure I haven’t adversely affected any timelines or the positive energy levels I’m trying to help increase. 

The boarding house tenants all respect Ms. Roy. Nellie is a petite woman with long auburn hair, clear blue eyes, and a calm, yet strong demeanor. She speaks up when she needs to. The boarders respects her rules and don’t cause problems. They also know not to bother any of the odd ladies who stay from time to time. These ladies always seem to get time with Nellie, talking to her in her private quarters. 

Ms. Roy asked me to meet her after supper on Friday evening. I felt nervous when she asked me, since I presumed my presence caused a change in the timeline. If that happens, I would have to go back home immediately, which would be disappointing, since I really like working for the Archers at their office. I still had hope that things would be fine on Monday.

As I walked into her study, I noticed how unique the room was. Through its decorations, it felt like several time periods resided within the same room. However, within the room, nothing felt out of place for 1932. Ms. Roy’s sincere blue eyes watched me looking around. I could tell from her expression that she is a insightful and wise woman. I realized it would be best to confide in her, since she most likely already knows that I’m feeling some confusion regarding my time spent here so far. 

“Ms. Roy,” I said, “Thank you for taking time to meet with me.” 

“Sweetie,” she replied. “Please call me Nellie. And I’m sorry we couldn’t talk earlier. I’m sure you're feeling overwhelmed with no guidance.” 

“Nellie, I’m sure I must be completely off track from the main goal,” I answered. “After all, with the Temp Agency sending me to the Archers’ office because I happened to be there…” 

Nellie gave me a patient smile and interrupted, “Leora, don’t you realize?” 

“Realize what?” I asked. 

“There are no accidents in the universe,” Nellie replied. “You were sent to where you need to be.” 

“I feel like my presence is causing confusion, and maybe conflict,” I stated. “At least, I’m confused.” 

“It’s overwhelming for the soul to interact with others, especially when you isolated yourself before this,” Nellie explained. 

“No matter how I think about this, someone’s going to get hurt,” I said. “I don’t want the bad karma.” 

Nellie poured hot green tea into two teacups from a white and blue Rington’s teapot, which was sitting on the small table between our chairs. She set both teacups into saucers and passed one cup and saucer over to me. 

Nellie thought a moment and then sighed. “Regarding that, don’t let Ego, yours or anyone else’s, cloud and corrupt pure emotions.” 

“But if someone’s married?” I asked. I sipped the green tea slowly. The heat of the tea felt healing and settled my nervous energy. 

“It’s different here,” Nellie elaborated, “Men step outside of their marriage and most understand that. It won’t cause harm to you, if your intention is based on pure love and compassion. The echo forward will be a greater good for all.” 

“So, if I’m where I’m supposed to be,” I inquired, “which one is my twin flame?” 

“No one can know that but you,” Nellie stated. I finished the cup of tea and set it back down on the table. 

“I was hoping to feel clearer after talking to you,” I said. 

“Well, you’ll know when you’re meant to,” Nellie affirmed. “This weekend, you can reflect and relax. Try taking a lavender oil bath tonight. It will help clear you.” 

“That sounds wonderful,” I said as I stood up. 

“I’m here any time you need to talk, Leora,” Nellie offered. “Talking can help a soul figure things out.” 

I thanked her for her time and advice and went upstairs. Most of the boarders were out somewhere, so the bathroom was empty. I started filling the bathtub with hot water. As the tub was filling, I went into my room and found a clean nightgown and a bathrobe. I went back into the bathroom. 

The claw foot tub was nearly full, so I shut off the water and added four drops of lavender oil. I slipped off my dress, stockings and undergarments. The hot water felt relaxing on my skin as I slid into the tub. I immediately felt relaxed and floated in the tub, allowing the water to wash away the week’s stress and confusion. 

After 25 minutes, the water was cooling off and I felt so relaxed; I stepped out of the tub and dried off with the white bath towel. I slipped on my clean nightclothes and drained the water. 

I walked down the hall to my room, stepped inside, shut and locked the door behind me. The window was cracked open and the cool August breeze wafted in. I turned off the light, slid off my bathrobe and slipped into bed. 

I lie down and felt my body and mind drift into a deep, peaceful sleep. I was aware of my dreaming within this sleep. It felt like I was floating on a cloud, with someone’s arms around me. As I looked around me, I could see his body leaning on mine. His arms were strong. I felt comforted and protected. In this dream, I couldn’t see his face. I felt pure love surrounding me. 

The whole night I was in this trance-like dream state. The night seemed to go on forever, as if time stopped. I woke up and looked around my room. It was still dark. In the moonlight, I could see the clock’s hands both on 12. It was midnight and I’d only been asleep for 3 hours. I laid my head back down on the pillow and went back to sleep.