Gates of Paradise (Casteel 4)

I saw that it was nearly twelve. My bedroom

door was still shut, but the windows were open and a

cool, refreshing sea breeze drifted in. I turned to it,

longing to get myself outside again, and suddenly,

very faintly at first, but stronger and stronger as I

focused on it, I heard a familiar voice. It came from

below . . . at the front of the house.

"Luke!"

I heard Tony's voice as well.

Concentrating as hard as I could and directing

all my strength into my legs, I swung myself over the

side of the bed, but my legs gave me no support.

Whatever vitality had been reborn in them was gone.

Something Tony had given me sent my renewed vigor

back into hibernation.

"Luke!" I screamed. My voice echoed in the

empty room, the sound shut up with me. I let myself

fall to the floor, collapsing like a dress that had

slipped off a hanger in a closet. I twisted myself

around and began a slow struggle toward the window,

pulling and tugging the best I could, encouraged by the continued sounds of Luke's voice. I began to make

out some words.

"But she insisted I come," he pleaded. "She's not ready for visitors."

"Why did she call?"

"She didn't; she couldn't have. It must have

been a mistake."

"I've driven all this way. Couldn't I see her for

just a few moments?" he implored.

"The doctors advise against it."

"Why?"