MISSING – Twenty-five-year-old Melissa Jenkins is 5’6” and has blue eyes and long brown hair. Last seen on February 23, 2018 in Belmont, Ohio. If you have any information regarding Melissa Jenkins's whereabouts, please get in touch with the Belmont Police Department – at 712-351-2314.
Bella Sloane sighed. She stared at the photo of the smiling young woman who remained ageless. It had been five years since the disappearance of Melissa Jenkins—daughter and heiress of Theodore Jenkins, an oil tycoon.
She was far from finding the truth. Yet Bella knew Melissa Jenkins was alive. Somewhere. She could feel it. A sixth sense. Intuition. But without proof of Melissa’s existence, she was still officially missing.
“Hey boss…how long are you going to stare at that photo?” asked Benjamin Huxley, Bella’s part-time assistant. He plopped down in the chair across from Bella. His tall, lanky frame shifted on the cushioned seat. In a plaid shirt and denim jeans, Benjamin looked more like a senior in high school rather than a forensic graduate student. His mussed blond hair and tiny goatee accentuated his baby-blue eyes.
“Until I can figure out where Melissa Jenkins is hiding,” replied Bella. Her sixty-five-year-old body ached. The self-defense classes were taking their toll.
“Why do you think she’s hiding?” questioned Benjamin. He pulled a lollipop out of his shirt pocket. Seconds later, it was inside his mouth.
“I told you before, Benjamin.” Bella leaned back in her oversized desk chair.
“Well…tell me again.” The young lad smiled.
“We both know Theodore Jenkins was not forthcoming with information concerning the whereabouts of his daughter on the day she went missing. He left out a major event which took place on that day. Their heated argument. It leads me to the conclusion Melissa took off. But…to where?” Bella intertwined her fingers.
“Now that’s the million-dollar question,” replied Benjamin. “I’ll keep digging, boss. I know I’ve searched her social media accounts, cell phone records, and bank activity, but it seems she fell off the face of the planet. Unless…” his voice trailed into silence.
Bella stared hard at her assistant. “She’s not dead, Benjamin. I can feel it in my bones. She’s here—somewhere.” Bella clenched her jaw.
“How much longer do you think her old man is going to keep paying to find his ‘lost daughter’?” The young man swirled the lollipop inside his mouth.
“To be honest, long enough to declare Melissa dead. His new ‘young’ wife is eyeing Melissa’s inheritance trust fund. If the daughter’s out of the picture, Claire Jenkins will be rich once Theodore dies.” Bella opened the thick manila file.
New leads had dried up years ago. Bella glanced through the stack of papers. She had to be missing something. No one disappears without a trace—even those who, unfortunately, have been murdered.
“I don’t know, boss. This case is one of the hardest you’ve worked. Even with all my technical and forensic skills, I can’t find a thing.” Benjamin crunched the remaining portion of the candy.
“What about the last use of her bank card?” Bella turned over several pages.
“Athens, boss…she vanished in one of the most haunted towns in America. Appropriate, wouldn’t you say? A good place to go missing.” Benjamin smiled.
“You know I don’t believe in spirits, right? There’s a rational explanation for Melissa’s absence.” Suddenly, a chill ran down her spine. She shivered.
“If I remember correctly, boss, you spent an entire day in Athens. There are no CCTV cameras except at the town bank. But you didn’t spend one night to authenticate or debunk the rumors of the paranormal.” Benjamin placed his hands behind his head.
“I wasn’t there to research ghosts, Benjamin. I was there to find Melissa Jenkins. The last photo of her alive was inside the town bank, cashing a check. From there, she went to the diner and ate lunch. After that…well, it’s a mystery.” Benjamin nodded his head.
“I know, boss. I’m just saying maybe you should take another ride out to Athens. Stay the night. Feel out the town. Maybe they have hidden caverns or shacks up in the hills she could be hiding. There is a lot of nature stuff to do. Maybe she hiked into the hills and couldn’t come back,” he suggested.
“We covered that base. The rangers did a grid search and came up with nothing. It led to a dead end. There was no evidence Melissa ever went backpacking or for a walk on a trail.” Bella closed the folder.
“I know, boss. I’m suggesting you do your recon. The rangers and volunteers do all right, but it’s not the same. What if they missed something?” he asked.
“It was a thorough search, Benjamin. Theodore Jenkins made absolutely sure of it. He hired a private company that dealt with search and rescue. Nothing. What makes you think I could find evidence they missed? I myself might go missing. I’m not much of a nature guru.” Bella closed her eyes for a brief moment.
“All right…what about taking another gander at the last place Melissa was seen on camera? Maybe someone remembers something they didn’t tell you before. It wouldn’t hurt.” Benjamin pulled out another lollipop from his shirt pocket.
“I guess. I’ll pack a few things for an overnight bag,” replied Bella.
“You mean you’re leaving now? It’s a bit late. Do you think it’s a good idea? Why not wait until the morning?” asked Benjamin. He sat up straight in his chair.
“I think I can travel when it’s dark outside, Benjamin. Besides, I’ll check into the Fireside Inn, which is located in town. Get a fresh start in the morning. I’ll grab a bite of breakfast at the town diner where Melissa was seen. Is that okay with you?” chuckled Bella.
Benjamin stood up to leave. He gave her the thumbs up. “Shoot me a text when you get to the inn. I worry about you, boss.”
Bella waved the young man off. Seconds later, she sat alone in her office. She needed to figure out the mystery of Melissa Jenkins's strange disappearance, whether the outcome was to be good or bad.
The long drive from Belmont to Athens was tiring for Bella. Her eyes burned from lack of sleep. She had often tried to shut her mind off when climbing into bed at night. But her private investigator instincts automatically kicked in, leaving her floundering as she tried to get a few hours of shut-eye.
The Fireside Inn was located in Athens, a few miles off Interstate 71. In a more rural setting, Athens depicted itself as if it stood the test of time—nothing like the hustle and bustle of the big city. The people of Athens were born and raised generation after generation, falling into the daily life of dairy and crop farms.
Bella stifled a yawn. The stretch off the highway leading to the Fireside Inn was deserted except for Bella’s SUV, and the night had settled into a thick mist. Temperatures plummeted, releasing unseasonal frigid air. She turned up the heater inside the car. As she inched her way down the misty road, snowflakes suddenly bombarded her vehicle.
“What the…?” she cried out. It was August, and the day’s high had been 85 degrees. How was this possible? Bella shivered in the warmth of her car. She had on a light jacket.
As she continued along, she could see a blanket of snow settled upon the fields. Yet the reading of the air temp outside registered seventy degrees.
“How in heaven’s name is this possible?” she mumbled. The wipers cleared her snow-covered windshield. But the heavy mist seemed to deepen the further she inched down the stretch of road.
As Bella neared the area where she thought Ingle Road led into town, a wave of nausea swept over her. Immediately, she jammed on the brakes, sending her SUV into a slide on the slippery, damp road.
Bella’s mind jumbled with thoughts of Melissa Jenkins as her car skidded and delved into the ditch, retching to a sudden stop. Instantly, the steering wheel airbag deployed, hitting Bella in the face. For a brief moment, she could not move. The windshield wipers swished back and forth. Seconds seemed like hours.
Voices echoed inside her throbbing head—none of which she could recognize. A warm sensation leaked into her blurry eyes.
“Lady…hey, lady…are you alright?” asked a deep male voice. Bella blinked her sticky eyelids. Her mouth moved, but no words came out.
“I think she’s in shock,” said a female voice. “Let’s get her out of there, Charlie.” The driver’s door creaked open. Bella tried to turn her aching head to see the strange man.
“She ain’t dead. Her head moved,” said the man. Bella’s mind tried to focus, but it was no use. Darkness slipped in and released her conscious state into nothingness.
The aroma of fresh, perked coffee permeated the room. Bella stirred. Her head ached in protest. Her eyelids felt as if they weighed a ton. Finally, after several tries, her eyes opened. Blinking away the blurriness, the strange room came into view. Mellow music drifted somewhere in the background. She could barely hear the humming.
Suddenly, a middle-aged woman came into view. Bella drew back into the cushiony fabric couch. Her hands gripped the soft fleece blanket that covered her.
“Who…who are you, and where am I?” asked Bella in a raspy voice.
“I’m Lily Farnsworth. And this is my home. How are you feeling, darlin’?” she asked in a Southern accent. The strange woman smiled. Her soft blond bob framed her petite face. She had blue eyes and a tiny nose with a tint of pink lipstick on her narrow lips. Her shirtwaist polka dot print was covered halfway with a flowered apron. The flat black loafers gave little height to the already short woman.
Bella tried to sit up. Instant nausea stopped her movement. “Not so good, I’m afraid. My head is spinning along with my stomach.” She closed her eyes.
“Well, it doesn’t surprise me none. You hit your head pretty hard. Ingle Road can be treacherous even on a sunny day. You’re lucky…it could be worse. Why don’t you just relax, and I’ll bring you a hot cup of coffee.” And without waiting for a response, Lily turned around and disappeared into another room.
Bella opened her eyes. This time, she tried to focus on the room. For a brief moment, she thought she had traveled back in time—the 1950s, to be exact. The décor of the room mirrored photographs of her parents and grandparents’ home when they were alive during that era.
“Here we go,” said Lily, carrying a silver tray over to where Bella lay. Once again, she tried to sit up. The wooziness was still there but not as bad.
“Thank you,” said Bella. Her hands trembled slightly as she held the cup of hot coffee.
“I have sugar and cream. Or do you drink yours black?” asked Lily. She placed the tray on the small table next to the checkered pattern couch.
“Black is fine,” mumbled Bella. She sipped the steaming liquid. It burned her tongue but felt good going down her dry throat.
“Lily…exactly…where am I?” asked Bella. Lily had settled in the high-backed chair across from Bella.
“Athens,” replied Lily. “Charlie Wilson and I found you unconscious. You must have slid off Ingle Road into the ditch. Charlie carried you through the woods. He said you didn’t weigh much at all. Anyway, I live on the other side. He was chopping wood for the fireplace and heard a loud bang. So, he took the path, and it led him to you. Charlie thought you might be—dead, so he came back and got me. And, well, that’s how you got here.” Lily smiled and clasped her hands together.
“Oh, well, thank you again and to Charlie. My name is Bella Sloane, and I’m a private investigator. I’m working on a missing person’s case.” She eased back once again and sipped her coffee.
“A female private investigator! Oh…how scandalous! Is that why you’re dressed the way you are?” Lily clapped her hands together. Bella tilted her head.
“I could ask you the same question. Why the costume?” asked Bella.
Lily’s smile vanished. She abruptly stood up. “I beg your pardon? I’ll let you know I just purchased this dress at Woolworth in downtown Athens. It’s the latest trend.” For a brief moment, Bella thought the woman would break down and cry.
“I’m sorry, Lily. I didn’t mean to be rude. It’s just…this place…your clothes…I know I’m not making any sense. Please forgive me. I’m very appreciative of your hospitality.” Bella’s face flushed.
“Well, it’s understandable with the accident and all. Are you hungry? I made fresh biscuits this morning,” said Lily. She stood wringing her hands.
“Actually, I was wondering if you happen to know the woman I’m looking for—Melissa Jenkins?” Bella sipped the last of her brew. It tasted delicious.
“Melissa Jenkins? The name doesn’t ring a bell. Nope. Athens is a small town. Most people know each other. I’m sorry I can’t be more helpful.” Lilly let out a sigh.
“I probably should be going. I’m a little confused. When I was driving…Ingle Road…there was snow. It’s August. Why would it be snowing here in August?” questioned Bella.
Lily giggled. “Bella, you did hit your head hard, didn’t you? It’s December. It snows every year in December and usually through to at least the end of March.”
“December? That’s impossible! When I left Belmont, it was almost eighty degrees outside, and the month was August,” exclaimed Bella.
“I don’t mean to disagree, but today is December 20, 1958. Five more days, and it will be Christmas. I just love this time of year. The whole town is decorated with lights. Everything is so festive.” Lily shrugged her shoulders.
For a brief moment, Bella wondered if she had heard Lily correctly. “You said it’s December 20, 1958?” She had to be mistaken. Maybe she did have a slight concussion.
Lily placed her hands on her small hips. “Now, how about a homemade biscuit and honey? It’ll fix you right up and you’ll feel better in no time.” Bella sat still. Lily hummed to the low sounding music in the background and turned toward the kitchen.
“What the…am I dreaming?” whispered Bella. She swung her legs to stand up. Her head still ached. But the coffee heated her chilled body. A large window pane expanded across the entire front of the house. Outside the snow continued to fall.
Suddenly, a loud knock came from the back of the house. Voices could be heard. Bella pushed up onto her wobbly legs. She glanced about the strange room. Holding on to the end of the couch she made her way into the kitchen area. Lily was talking to a man.
“Howdy, ma’am. How are you feeling?” asked the elder gent. His thick plaid coat hung from his lanky frame. A wool cap fitted snug against his grey hair. A long thick beard and moustache covered his aged face. “I’m Charlie, by the way. I carried you here to Lily’s place. Wasn’t sure how long you were out in the cold and thought maybe you succumbed to the weather. Glad to see I was wrong.” For some strange reason, his toothless smile made her feel at ease.
“I want to thank you, Charlie, for saving my life. If you hadn’t come to investigate, I’d probably be on a cold slab in the morgue.”
Lily’s eyes widened.
“It was nothin’…glad to be of service, ma’am.” The old man gave a nod and turned to leave. “If you need anything else, just give me a holler!” he shouted over his shoulder, and then he disappeared outside.
Lily closed the door. “Charlie’s a good man. He’s a godsend, especially since I lost my Harold last year to the influenza.”
“I’m so sorry, Lily. It must be hard for you,” murmured Bella. She steadied herself against the tiled counter top.
“We all have crosses to bear, darlin’. Mine is being alone. Harold was called home. And Charlie, a good Christian neighbor that he is, helped me after Harold’s calling. He chops wood for me. He checks to make sure I’m doing alright. Sometimes he drives me into Athens for grocery shopping and other things. Charlie’s a good man. And I’m blessed to call him my friend.” Lily forced a smile.
“I don’t mean to be rude, but is there anyway I can get a ride into town? I reserved a room at the Fireside Inn for the night. I’m here to work Melissa Jenkins missing person case and I can’t do it from here,” explained Bella.
“Darlin’, there isn’t a soul here who would dare try and tackle the treacherous roads in this weather. Maybe tomorrow morning, Charlie can drive you into town. You are more than welcome to stay here for the night. I have a spare room upstairs you can use. Besides, you probably should rest.” Lily turned off the light switch.
“I’m much obliged, Lily. I guess you’re right. I do need to sleep. Actually, a nice warm bed sounds very inviting right now. Maybe I should call the Fireside Inn and tell them I won’t be arriving tonight,” said Bella.
Lily waved her hand. “I’m sure they already know. No one in their right mind drives in the snow unless it’s an emergency,” stated Lily. Bella decided not to respond.
Lily gestured for Bella to go first up the stairs. She took one step at a time. Suddenly, she felt drained. Her eyes were growing heavy. Minutes later, she was snuggled under the soft down yellow comforter. She desperately tried to sort out the evening’s affairs, but sleep had its own agenda.
Bella’s strange dreams swirled within her mind. Images of distorted faces meshed together. Sweat covered her entire body. Tossing and turning. A gentle shake. Bella forced her eyes to open.
“Bella! Bella!” Her pitch increased. “Bella…wake up!” A slight nudge to her shoulder.
Suddenly, Bella shot up in bed. “What’s going on?” she mumbled. She quickly glanced about the strange room. It took her second to realize she was not home.
“Darlin’…you gave me a scare. You were talking loudly and I wasn’t sure if you were asking for help.” Lily gave a half smile.
“Talking?” Bella’s headache had regressed to a dull ache. Her eyes felt grainy. The sun poured through the bedroom window. Lily must have pulled back the curtains. It was morning.
“I talked with Charlie and he said the drive into Athens is doable. Again, you’re welcome to stay here as long as you like. I enjoy having company,” said Lily. “It gets lonesome here.”
“My briefcase is in my car. I need it. Do you think Charlie would mind stopping so I can retrieve it? I have vital information relating to the case.” Bella’s mind cleared. She remembered the accident.
“Oh…you mean this briefcase?” Lily walked over to the short dresser. She carried to Bella in bed. “Charlie hiked back this morning. He thought you might be needing it.”
Bella gladly took it from Lily’s petite hands. She opened it immediately. Inside was the file on Melissa Jenkins. With ease, she pulled out a photo.
“Have you ever seen this woman?” asked Bella. Lily leaned in closer. A smile formed across her face.
“Why that’s Jessie Adams. She owns the hardware store in Athens. Moved here…well, I’m not quite sure to be honest. Friendly lady. Church-going Christian. Helps the folks who can’t afford items in her store. Store credit, she calls it,” explained Lily.
Bella looked again at the eight by ten photo. “Are you sure it’s the same woman? Maybe this Jessie Adams just looks like Melissa Jenkins?” insisted Bella.
Lily held the photo in her hand. She titled her head. “I’m sure—it’s definitely Jessie Adams who owns the town’s hardware store.” Lily handed it back to Bella.
“How is it possible? Unless Melissa Jenkins changed her identity to Jessie Adams? Maybe she didn’t want to be found,” mumbled Bella.
“Well, how long has this Melissa Jenkins been missing?” asked Lily.
“Over five years. She disappeared off the map. Her father is an oil tycoon and spent a lot of money searching for his daughter. And I won’t give up until I find her—dead or alive.” Bella shoved the photo back in the briefcase. It was the first time Bella actually considered Melissa Jenkins just might be deceased.
Charlie’s old beat-up Chevy truck had seen better days. It was cold inside. The defroster barely blew air let alone supplied any heat to the passengers inside. Bella shivered in her thin jacket. The clutch stuck a bit as he tried to shift into first gear. She could feel the vintage vehicle slip and slide on the snow-covered road.
“Wow…it’s cold!” exclaimed Bella rubbing her unprotected hands together. Charlie’s thick, worn woolen coat smelled of stale cigarettes. His knit cap was pulled down over his ears. Huge work gloves covered his wrinkled hands.
“December gets cold here in Athens. We’re lucky today…sun’s shining. Able to get a little bit of traction on the road. Otherwise, it might have been a while before taking you into town. You should see about a tow truck. It might take a bit to drag your car from the ditch. I’m pretty sure you got a flat, and who knows what the ditch did to your front end.” Charlie chewed on a wad of tobacco.
Bella bounced up and down on the cold leather bench seat. Springs pushed up into her bum. She grabbed at the worn dashboard several times.
“How much longer until we reach Athens?” questioned Bella, looking at all the snow out the passenger window.
“Well…I’d say about twenty minutes or so. The roads in town are cleared sooner than the backroads…it stands to reason.” Charlie sucked at his bottom lip.
Bella hesitated a moment. She wondered if Charlie knew of Jessie Adams and when she moved to Athens.
“Charlie, do you know by chance when Jessie Adams moved to Athens?” asked Bella. He did not respond immediately.
“I’ve lived here all my life. Known history of families for generations. As for Jessie Adams? I got no clue. She just appeared one day and set up shop. Friendly and all. Kind of strange though. You ask her about her kin and she skirts around the matter like a flea on a hound dog. Maybe she has none.” The old man shifted the clutch and the truck lurched forward.
“So, what your saying is no one knows of her background—where she came from or any living relatives?” persisted Bella.
“Can’t tell you what I don’t know. Jessie is tight-lipped with privacy. I don’t judge people.” Charlie turned briefly to look at Bella.
“Why you taking such an interest in Jessie Adams? She’s no criminal, is she?” His dark eyes narrowed.
“No. I’m looking for someone who was reported missing over five years ago. Her name is Melissa Jenkins. And I am told that the photo I have of Melissa is Jessie Adams.” Bella left it hang in the air. Charlie remained silent.
“Did you ever think this Melissa Jenkins doesn’t want to be found?” he mumbled.
“Yes. I considered it. But I also considered the fact is that she also may have been taken against her will or she may no longer be alive. And in that case, it could be a crime.” Bella’s toes were numb.
“Well, we’re almost there. Where do you want me to drop you off? The hardware store or the police station?” asked Charlie as he slowed to a snail’s pace.
Athens was a quaint two-lane mid-western town. An old brick post office, Athena Cinema, a bakery and Old Towne Diner spaced one side of the main road. The other consisted of Leaman’s Hardware, the town’s court house and the Athen’s police station. The freshly snowed covered town looked deserted. A few cars were scattered about. Bella rubbed her burning eyes.
“Lily wasn’t kidding when she said Athens was a small town—historic would be a better word. Where’s the Fireside Inn?” asked Bella.
“Not sure what you’re referring to as historic, but the inn is about half a mile past town. Here’s Leaman’s Hardware.” Charlie slowed down and pulled in directly in front of the store.
Bella sat for a moment. Her fingers and toes felt frozen. It took her a minute to try and move them. “Give me a few minutes. Keep the truck running. I’ll pay you for gas.” Charlie gave a slight nod. She opened the passenger. It moaned in protest. The frigid air bit into her uncovered face. Why did she feel so cold?
The snow crunched under her casual flat boots. The wooden steps creaked. A heavy windowless door stood firm. It took her several tries before it pushed open. A surge of warm air rushed against her cold body. A tiny bell jingled above.
The hardware store smelled of sawdust. Wooden shelving lined the narrow aisles. Typical hardware stores plucked out of the 1950s era. Bella glanced around. She heard a shuffling near the back of the store. This whole town seemed to be stuck in the past including its occupants.
“Hello?” called Bella. Her toes began to thaw from the wintery weather outside. How was it possible people here believed it to be December when she knows for a fact it was definitely August?
“May I help you?” came a female voice. She stood about 5’6”. Her short brown cropped hair snugged her round pretty face. Deep blue eyes stared hard at Bella. The checkered flannel tucked inside the woman’s worn jeans. Scuffed work boots clunked the sawdust covered floor as she walked slowly toward the stranger.
Bella stopped in her tracks. She blinked several times. For a brief moment, she doubted herself. But as the woman stepped closer, she knew in an instant—this woman was Melissa Jenkins!
“Ma’am…how can I help you?” Bella remained stoic. Not sure how to approach the sensitive subject of Jenkins’ disappearance.
“Are you…the owner?” asked Bella.
The woman gave a slight nod. “I’m Jessie Adams, the owner of Leaman’s Hardware. What brings you out on this cold, miserable day?” She placed her hands on her shapely hips.
“I’m…I’m from the neighboring town. Bella Sloane—private investigator.” She held out her hand. Jessie Adams reluctantly took hold. The two women locked eyes. Adams quickly pulled back.
“A woman PI! Can’t say I ever heard of one.”
Bella forced a smile. She forged ahead. “I’m looking for a missing woman—Melissa Jenkins. Her father hired me. She’s been missing for over five years.” Bella slowly retrieved a photo from her coat pocket. She showed it to Jessie Adams.
Jessie Adams glanced down at the photo, then back at Bella. Her jaw clenched. Immediately, she crossed her arms.
“Get out of my store, Ms. Sloane. And don’t come back. You’re not welcome in Athens. I don’t know how you got here, but you can find yourself a way back.” She turned to leave.
“Melissa…wait!” She was puzzled by the woman’s response. A way back?
“Your father…your father has been searching for you. Don’t you care?” persisted Bella. Jessie Adams stopped. But did not turn back around. “My father—is dead. My name is Jessie Adams. You’ve got me mixed up with someone else. I suggest you find your way home, Ms. Sloane. Because you’ll find nothing of evidentiary value to your missing person’s case.” Jessie started to walk away.
“I understand why people want to disappear and even change their names. A fresh start. A new life. I get it. I want to close this case once and for all, Melissa. Please…just talk to me for five minutes, and I’ll leave you alone.” Bella did not want to leave. Her heart pounded in her chest.
Jessie Adams released a huge sigh. She turned to face the PI. “How did you find me?”
“My assistant suggested I return to Athens to see if I could dig anything else here since it was the last official sighting of Melissa Jenkins. But I have to admit—this place is like stepping back in time. I don’t remember it so nostalgic,” commented Bella.
“What happened before you arrived in Athens?” asked Jessie.
Bella’s eyebrows scrunched together. “What do you mean?” asked Bella.
“Did you just drive right into Athens?” Jessie shrugged her shoulders.
“Well…no. I got off the freeway and the weather changed drastically. It was misty and then snowing. I lost control of my car and slid into a ditch. I woke up in Lily Farnsworth’s living room. An old man by the name of Charlie Wilson carried me to Lily’s house. He’s the one who brought me here. When I left Belmont yesterday morning, it was August. And seventy degrees outside. I wake up in Lily’s home and it’s snowing and cold and…it’s December. How is this even possible?” persisted Bella. “What in heaven’s name is going on here?”
Jessie Adams tilted her head. “A slip in time. You found it—just like I did five years ago.”
“I…don’t understand. What is a slip in time?” asked Bella. Suddenly, her stomach churned.
“From what I understand, it’s when another era has briefly intruded on the present. You traveled through time without knowing why or how it occurred. It has something to do with the disturbance of the earth’s magnetic field. Most of the time, you can slip right back. Unless, like me, you don’t want to. And you stumbled right into it, Ms. Sloane. And I’m not sure if you can slip back.” Jessie Adams leaned against the wooden counter.
Bella could not believe her ears. Was a slip in time really possible? She heard about people experiencing other time periods but she shrugged it off as a hoax. But as she looked about the town and its few inhabitants she had contact with, how could she explain it?
“My father is an evil man. He murdered my mother when I was young. But he got away with it because of his power and money. He doesn’t love me. He wants to control me. At first, I just wanted to get out from under him. So, I tried to disappear in Athens. The date was February 23, 2018. You know this because of the surveillance camera on the bank. People saw me inside the diner. That evening I knew I had to leave. He would find me. And as I left town that night, a strange eerie mist settled on Ingle Road. Like you, I couldn’t see and drove right into a ditch. Charlie found me, too. Lily let me stay at her house until I got on my feet. I realized quickly Athens was not the same Athens I set foot in 2018. Somehow, I was transported back in time. And that’s when it occurred to me I found my new home. My father could never find me. But I guess I was wrong because now you are standing right in front of me.” Jessie Adams moved behind the worn counter.
“I don’t understand how this could be possible? How do I know I’m not in a coma and this is all a dream?” asked Bella.
“You’re not in a coma. And as for me—I’m not going back. It’s as simple as that. I’m not sure how you’re going to get home, though. You may be stuck here in Athens. And as you can see—time stands still.” Jessie wiped the stained counter.
“I still am not comprehending all of this!” exclaimed Bella. “I’ve heard of people who insist they traveled through time and experiments by the government—but nothing of slipping through time.” Bella’s stomach churned.
“Well, neither did I. And research at Athens’ library is limited. The internet is nonexistent, which can really be a bummer. But anywhere my father can’t reach me is a plus in my book.” Jessie forced a quick smile.
Bella’s mind jumbled with the information Melissa supplied. Was she really in Athens during the 1950s? Was Melissa Jenkins standing in front of her with a new name and life?
“Why did you change your name if you knew your father couldn’t find you?” asked Bella.
Melissa shrugged her shoulders. “I was tired of being Melissa Jenkins. I want no part of my father or his name. New start—new name. Besides…the name Jessie Adams fits me quite well. Don’t you think?” Melissa chuckled.
Bella still was having trouble accepting the fact she slipped through time to the exact same spot Melissa Jenkins had over five years ago. If there was such a thing, was Athens a permanent portal to the past?
Without waiting for an answer, Jessie Adams rattled on. “And it was perfect timing, excuse the pun. Mr. Leaman had just retired. I asked if I could lease his business until I paid him in full. He agreed with the caveat to keep his name attached to the store. Worked out great. I finished paying my debt six months ago. Now…this place is mine.”
Bella was only partially listening to Jessie Adams aka Melissa Jenkins. She was still hung up on the fact she slipped through time to December 1958. In all reality, Bella would be about ten months old.
“Did you hear what I said, Ms. Sloane?” Jessie leaned on the damp counter.
Bella gave a slight nod. “I did…bits and pieces. I’m having a hard time with…with all of this and the year 1958. I was born in 1958.”
“And? I’m not even a twinkle in anyone’s eye. I was born in 1993. The future!” Jessie chuckled.
“I would call this…this place a displacement in time,” said Bella.
“You can call it whatever your little heart desires, Ms. Sloane. I call it freedom and my home. I’m very happy in Athens. I don’t know what will happen as the years progress. Like I told you before, it's as if time stands still here within our quaint town.”
“People will be looking for me. What will happen when they search Athens?” asked Bella.
“I’m sure they’ll find Athens. It’s on the map. But it won’t be in 1958. It will be the Athens of 2023. And you won’t be there so…” Jessie’s voice trailed off into silence.
“No one will know I’m here,” murmured Bella.
“You catch on quick—no wonder you’re a private eye.” Jessie gave a quick wink.
The old wood door creaked then moaned. The bell jingled above. Charlie popped his head inside then his whole body.
“Just checking to make sure everything is fine. You okay Ms. Sloane?” The old man cleared his throat.
“Yes, Charlie. Just asking a few questions. Ms. Adams is a source of information,” replied Bella.
“I’ll be at the diner across the street having a hot cup of coffee. It’s mighty cold outside sitting in the truck,” commented Charlie. “I’ll come get you when I’m finished speaking with Ms. Adams, Charlie.” Bella gave a slight nod. Charlie took his leave and closed the door behind him.
“How do I get back?” Bella took a step closer to the counter. Jessie crossed her arms.
“Well, isn’t that the million-dollar question.” Jessie shrugged her shoulders. Bella let out a huge sigh.
“Did you ever try to go back?” asked Bella. Her heart skipped a beat at the notion she might be stuck in 1958.
Jessie slowly nodded her head from side to side. “I already told you—I’m not going back!”
“Not you—me!” cried Bella. For a brief moment, her hopes seemed to rise. She thought about the cell phone in her briefcase. “I got an idea. I have a cell phone.”
Jessie Adams let out a cackle startling Bella. “What’s so funny?”
“You fool. There are no cell phone towers or satellite, for that matter, to pick up a signal. Cell phones weren’t invented until early 1973. So…you’re out of luck, Ms. Sloane.”
“Do you have any logical suggestions, Ms. Adams?” Bella was losing her patience. She had to get back. It took her years to get her feet off the ground and build her clientele. She wasn’t planning on losing everything she worked so hard for because of a slip in time.
“As you can see for yourself, there isn’t anything ‘logical’ about Athens. I do suggest, if you don’t find your way home, to pick another profession. Not much use for a PI. I heard the diner is looking for a server.” Jessie bent her head down to cover the smile.
“You’re hilarious,” replied Bella. Her pulse quickened.
“Well, I do have one idea—if you’re open to it,” said Jessie. Bella was skeptical.
“You might try and revisit the crash site. You mentioned it was foggy the night when you drove your car into a ditch,” said Jessie.
Bella hesitated. “It might work. But my car is still stuck in the ditch. Is there anyone who could tow my car back onto the road?”
“Charlie could hook up a chain. He’s a man of many talents—as you have already seen. I hope you find your way back home, Bella. I truly do. And, remember, it will be without me. This will be one missing person case that can’t be closed.” She gave a half smile.
“I’ll cross that bridge once I get there. I’m glad you found what you were searching for here in Athens.” Bella walked out the door and didn’t look back.
Charlie hooked the heavy metal chain to the bumper of Bella’s car. Bella sat behind the worn steering wheel of Charlie’s truck waiting for his signal. After a few minutes, he gave her the green light. As she put the gear shifter in reverse, her left foot pressed hard on the clutch. The truck rattled as the engine ground.
“Give her some gas!” shouted Charlie. Bella stomped again on the gas pedal. Suddenly, the old truck lurched backwards bringing Bella’s car slowly back onto the road. Several minutes later, she had the car started. It sounded rough from sitting in the cold. Charlie leaned into her open window.
“I’m sure you’ll be fine. I looked it over and I don’t see any physical damage. Nothing leaking from the engine either. Want me to stick around for a while?” he asked.
“No need both of us freezing to death, Charlie. You can head on back now. Thanks for all your help.” Bella turned the defroster on high. She rubbed her hands together. It was extremely cold outside.
“Well, if you don’t need me, I’ll be heading back to Lily’s place. She invited both of us for a hot cup of coffee. I’ll see you soon.” Charlie shuffled to his truck. With a quick wave, he slowly made his way down the deserted road.
A heavy fog had settled on the road and surrounding woods. Bella looked around. Jessie had mentioned trying to find the slip in time in a dense fog—the way she found it to the year 1958.
“Here goes nothing,” whispered Bella. The car had warmed, and the windows defrosted. She said a quick prayer as she put the car in drive heading in the opposite direction of Charlie’s truck had gone.
As Bella crept along, she realized the fog had grown even more dense. She could barely see the road. It was then her stomach became uneasy. Her eyes blurred. A strange sensation overwhelmed her entire body. The earth beneath the car rumbled. Suddenly, the world around her turned black.
An immense pull from the back end startled Bella awake. The sun was shining. Her body was covered in a heated sweat. She tried to focus her mind. Voices trailed behind her. Another tug shifted her limp body.
“Ma’am…ma’am…are you all right?” called a deep male voice. Her eyes flittered open. She forced herself to move her lips but no sound emerged. A loud rapping on the driver’s window quickened her heart beat.
“Ma’am…I’m an Ohio State Trooper. You’ve been in an accident. Are you all right?” The tall uniformed trooper peered inside.
Bella stuck up her thumb. A half grin formed across his middle-aged face. He gestured to the tow truck behind. Another couple of tugs and the car was back onto the road. Bella grasped for the door handle. It was warm to the touch. A second later she was falling from the car.
“Wait a minute, ma’am,” shouted the trooper. His large arms and strong hands caught Bella before she hit the pavement.
With one swoop he lifted her up in his arms and carried Bella to where the ambulance was waiting with flashing red lights. Two paramedics met him half way with the gurney.
“Think she may have a concussion. Take her to Ashville Hospital. I’ll have her car towed to the impound lot.” Both paramedics gave a slight nod.
Bella tried desperately to focus on the situation, but could not clear her mind. Where was she? Still in 1958?
The two young men lifted the gurney with ease and slid it through the open back doors of the ambulance. Bella fought to keep herself awake. With much resistance, the words tumbled from her mouth.
“What…what…year…is it?” she whispered in between breaths. The ambulance lurched forward with the siren blaring. The young male paramedic was listening and taking her blood pressure.
“Your blood pressure is a little high, but that’s to be expected, ma’am. Your car was in a ditch with extensive damage to the front end. Luckily, a passer-by phoned the accident. You might have a concussion from the impact. Hopefully, no broken bones.” He patted her hand.
“What…year…is…it?” she repeated in a hoarse voice. The paramedic's eyebrows scrunched together.
“Year ma’am? It’s 2023. I should be asking you what year it is.” And with that said, Bella closed her weary eyes and thanked the heavens above.
Bella sat at her office desk and stared at the laptop screen. She needed to send an email to Theodore Jenkins to inform him she had closed the case on his missing daughter—Melissa Jenkins. Even though Bella knew the truth, it didn’t matter. No one would ever believe her slip in time.
The email was short and to the point. Bella could no longer keep Theodore Jenkins as her client.
To: Theodore Jenkins
“Due to the lack of physical evidence regarding the known whereabouts of your daughter, Melissa Jenkins, I must retract from your request to continue the search. No evidence of foul play can be traced or found. According to law, after seven years you may claim your daughter as deceased.
I realize, Mr. Jenkins, this is not what you want to hear. But personally, I feel, your daughter does not want to be found. Of course, it is your prerogative to hire another investigator to pursue your search. But between you and me, Mr. Jenkins, your daughter, Melissa Jenkins has slipped through time.
Sincerely,
Bella Sloane, Private Investigator
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