1 MYSTERE
Back in 1970 , one day at the midnight hour, Stephanie heard some noises at her door. She
couldn't understand what it was. She went to know what was happening. To her surprise, Eliza
Groshier was standing at her door, totally drenched. To her next surprise, it was raining.
"Probably, Eliza must've found her home locked when she came back.", thought Stephanie. Her
brother must have gone for his chores. "Eli, what a surprise to see you here! When did you
come back from Paris? Did your flight land today? Well, come on in, perhaps you should
change your clothes. I'll bring you coffee." She came in and gave a big hug to Steph and made
her wet. Both changed their clothes. While preparing coffee they started gossiping. Stephanie
asked about Eli's brother Amilio. "How's Ami? ", with a sarcastic smile. Eli understood and they
then started hitting each other in fun. Both drank coffee, though there was excess sugar in it .
☺
Both of them were 22, school friends who were still in touch with each other. Amilio was 23 , a
year older than Eli. He was an extremely protective brother. He had a huge crush on Eliza's
friend Stephanie, though she used to hate him.
They slept as it was already midnight , and woke up at 8 in the morning .
Stephanie was an early bird whereas Eli found it difficult to wake early .
Steph tried to wake her up by throwing a glass of cold water on her face. She woke up hurriedly
. On her way to get ready for work , something struck Steph's mind: it was about the noise she
heard last night . It sounded something like a hustle bustle going around ,it couldn't be Eliza, it
was definitely something else. The same voice was heard by her last week too, but due to her
excitement of seeing Eli on her door she forgot.
While she was thinking about all this, the doorbell rang. Amilio had come to see his sister and
take her home. " Hi brother, I didn't find you in home yesterday, that's why I decided to come
here. Where were you? " Eli questioned . "Oh ! Nothing I was partying with my friends . I forgot
that yesterday your flight was going to land. It's 24 – 12 – 1970 isn't it?" Ami replied. "Ya, it is." "
How was your conference in Paris? Did you meet mamma ? How is she?" "Oh it was great as
you know that I am the greatest fashion designer ever." said Eli and all started to laugh . Behind
her laugh, Stephanie was still wondering about the noise she heard last night.. the kind she
heard last week as well.
Interrupted by Eli, " Let's have breakfast? ``'' Yes , the toast is ready . " said Stephanie . After
finishing their meal Stephanie hurried to court. "She was in a hurry, wasn't she?" '' Ami, she is a
lawyer and it's 9:30. She must be getting late." ,exclaimed Eli. "Yeah," said Ami . "Let's get
going, I have shipments today . They'll arrive at 12 ." " Okay , wait till I get my bags ." Eli soon
got her stuff and came to the door while Ami was waiting for her . " Get in , put on the seat belt ,
remember,your hands inside . " Am I a child ?" Eli replied immediately . It took them 15 minutesto reach the cosy cottage near the muséc d'arts de Nantes ,where they'd been living for the
past five years.
Eli was happy to return but got bored alone after Ami left for his chores . She was a busy
minded girl and loathed being lazy . Suddenly , she recalled a new edition of Elegance
magazine had been published . Eli went to the library to see if it was there .
Alifa, the assistant librarian greeted her when she arrived at the reception desk. " Bonjour
Madame , how may I help you?"
"Alifa is that you ?" questioned Eli. "Eliza.... Eliza Groshier is that you?; ya, I recently joined
here. Sorry, but I am a little busy with lists. "No, it's fine. Take your time." "We'll meet at the
park." "Sure." ,replied Eli.
Eli was just as in a hurry to grab Elegance as Alifa to check her lists. She went to the
magazine's section. It took her a long time to find the Elegance but her efforts were no waste .
Meanwhile , Alifa had done the lists and was waiting for Eli at the gate . "Let's go !" Said Alifa , "
Hmm.."
While walking to the park near the library Eli asked , " May I ..?" "Of course." " When I was
looking for elegance, I saw something strange . Does your library have some pictographic
successions of language ?" " No, not at all, why ?" Alifa was looking sideways to Eli and turned
opposite . " Because I saw a book and it was very colourful as if it was an icing with cherries and
was having pictures of wonderful and mystic creatures ." " You're silly , but it might be an art
magazine , no wonder it has colours.", said Alifa bluntly.
As they reached the park, Alifa lost into silence until Eli helped her to this world, "Are you here?
Are you listening... Don't ignore me.... Alifa... Alifa", Eli shook her hand vigorously. "Hey !" cried
Alifa. "What now?" "I was in Paris and enjoyed the conference,.. well the library is a nice place
for you and your silence, you did listen to me didn't you?" "Yes, all this time", replied Alifa. "Are
you still with Gilbert?" asked Alifa. "Yes ... But I haven't told him about my arrival, I will surprise
him on his birthday. You are my best friend, please suggest me some gifts , will you?" "I work in
a library , not at a gift shop and he is not one to whom I will certainly ever give a book, so let's
ask Suzanne, she is good at planning ." said Alifa. " Ghosh , you just puzzled me Alifa, okay but
who is she?" "I'll take you to her tomorrow evening, I thought you remember her because she
was with us in high school. Well, it's late. I should get back to work.", replied Alifa. " Fine , I have
borrowed the book so I'll get going. Bye!" Said Eli. "See you soon." answered Alifa and went to
the library.
While returning Eli observed the same multi-coloured tree as there was in that attractive
magazine by the river and wondered if it could be of any use in the next fashion event.
At home Ami was waiting by the fire for Eli to return . "Were you prancing around with Gilbert
?" Ami asked in a serious tone . Eli showed him the magazine and said , " I pranced around
with Alifa at the park, She works at the library nowadays .... and yeah !" Then she slowed down
and spoke , " Gilbert doesn't know about my flight, oops" "What, what did you say?" exclaimed
Ami. "Nothing , just nothing," shouted Eli . " Let's have dinner , Eli ." " Why not , what do we
have today ?" asked Eli . "Pasta .", replied Ami .
After dinner, Eli convinced Ami that she'll be meeting Alifa in the evening and she might get
late. Ami agreed and dropped her off at the library the other day.On her way reaching the library, she again saw the mischievous tree, the same as the one she
had seen earlier but now the location seemed different. To her surprise, Alifa was waiting for her
at the library gate . " Alifa, I was thinking about borrowing that book from you.", said Eli.
"Which one?", they discussed as they went in . "The one which had multi-coloured tree on it's
front page.", replied Eli . "No, that book is not the one anyone can borrow.", said Alifa and her
face turned red and her strange looking eyes scared Eli. " Alifa is everything all right? Why are
you sweating?" Eli was shocked to see such a reaction from her friend. " It's nothing, here is
Suzanne's address, I have a lot of work today . So, I wouldn't be able to join you both . See you
tomorrow." , said Alifa and went inside without looking back . Eli was captured by this incident.
Eliza went to meet Suzanne. On her way she was puzzled but still firm for the birthday gift that
Suzanne will suggest. She met her at her place . " Bonjour Suzanne." " Bonjour .. aren't you
Eliza Groshier?" "Yes, you remember me, that's great. We last met at the college.." "During
results, I remember. Actually, Alifa told me this morning that you will visit me soon ." " Yeah ,
she did give me your address. Where do you work now?" " At my bakery , there at that corner." "
I was here to ask for what can be a good gift for Gilbert?" "You were friends, right ? The whole
high school knew. " "Yes , will you help me?" " Sure, we were friends and we still are . I think
the new watch in the market will be just fine." ''Is it expensive?". It took time for them to conclude
what was best. They had a lot to talk about as they had met after a long time.
In the evening , Stephanie returned back from court , totally exhausted because of the
complicated case she was handling . While thinking about it, suddenly her ears again found the
weird noise approaching from her porch . It wasn't weekend today, these voices grew more
frequent now. Terrified and irritated by listening to these noises, without thinking about anything
, wearing a regular pink jacket and sleepers, she stepped out of her house. She rarely used to
do so. Out of nowhere, Suzanne came to her mind and she moved towards Suzanne's house
nearby. Just before entering the house she saw Eli over there. She waited patiently for Eli to
leave and hid behind a tree till then.
When Eli left, she entered quickly. Suzanne was stunned to see Stephanie's face which was
blue in fear. "Stephanie what happened? Why are you so worried?" asked Suzanne in a
worried state of mind . "Well it's a long story." " I can predict that from your face Steph , let's
have coffee while discussing it. Come on , get in." Both of them had a cup of coffee in their hand
and Stephanie started the conversation saying, "Well I am going to tell you something which is
bothering me for a while ... Actually I hear strange hustling sounds in my porch frequently, firstly
only got them at weekends but recently every single day. . mm I am afraid now and want you
to help me sort this out ." Stephanie's voice shivered as she completed. "Calm down , finish
coffee
, I assure you, we'll find a way ." "It's late, I should leave. Tomorrow's Tuesday and I am busy
lately", said Stephanie. "Okay , we'll figure it out by park tomorrow. Don't worry, I am sure it may
be a cat or some animal .I will be taking a walk by nature . You can join me at 7 there." Suzanne
sympathized her and she left agreeing.
After meeting Suzanne , Eli went home and was surprised to see Gilbert right in front of her
house . He stood in anxiety and moved towards Eli as soon as he saw her. "Why didn't you
inform me that you were arriving earlier?.. Let's get in" "Ami will arrive late today.", said Eli to
Gilbert.They went in, sat on a couch and started talking." I wanted to surprise you at your birthday...but
since you know I am here, the plan has flopped." ,said Eli . " Eliza, I never celebrate my birthday
..but I think something else is bothering your mind , what is it ? " Gilbert asked in a suspicious
manner . " I went to library this morning and saw a really interesting magazine cover which can
help me with designing but.."" What's a but there , isn't it nice ?just borrow it ..what's so
depressive in that , you are making faces like this .", said Gilbert in amusement." I know.. but
Alifa refused to help me with it , she was so horrific ..her face and eyes all turned red at once .
She hasn't done anything like that before. I am really sad for her.", Eli said in a very unhappy
tone. "If you eagerly want to see that magazine, I will bring it for you.", said Gilbert. "No , if she
doesn't have the permission let's not trouble her." Eli replied. ".. Well, would you like to have
dinner?" "No thanks, maman must be waiting for dinner together. We will plan some other day."
replied Gilbert.Then
he went home thinking to impress Eli by showing her the same book again.
Next day, he went to the library quite early. In a haste to grab the magazine, he jumped through
the window without even checking for the gate .
During the same time, Stephanie arrived at the park near the library and saw him entering like a
thief . Suzanne was as usual taking rounds at the park. Stephanie called out ," Suzanne, I saw a
thief, no ..no.. Gilbert thief by library, he was entering through a window . I know. It was surely
him." " What happened now and why on earth will he enter the library like a thief. He never visits
one. There must be some confusion. Let's check first. " ,said Suzanne in astonishment. " Where,
in the library?" "Of course , where else.." "But it must be closed as it gets opened by 8 usually. "
, said Stephanie thoughtfully. "Oh ..come on , let's go."
When Suzanne and Stephanie moved towards the library, Gilbert saw something mischievous.
"I don't think anyone's there, the door is also closed ", said Suzanne.
" But I surely saw someone and it must be Gilbert. ", shouted Stephanie. "Be quiet, ..and how
can you be so sure?". "Because he had the E band in his hand which Eli made herself and gave
him. ", proclaimed Stephanie. "Since neither can we see him nor enter the library we should
leave and ask Eli later", said Suzanne.
While they were talking about all this , an old lady interrupted. " Why are you jogging in this
park this early in the morning ? Don't you know the river is plagued by suicides and bandits
thrive in this area ." " Why should we be terrified of this river , the last one died months ago .
Aren't there pretty flowers?.." ,said Suzanne by pointing at the roses. The old lady walked away
without uttering a word .
It was about 7 : 30 now . Stephanie had to be at the court till nine , so she waved at Suzanne
and walked to her house thinking about the case she had to solve. Here Suzanne decided to go
to Eli's house . Eli was cleaning her wardrobe. She had forgotten to shut her door . She was
stunned to see Suzanne early in the morning . Before they could read each other Suzanne
asked, " Today when Stephanie and I were jogging in the park we saw something shady . We
think we saw Gilbert entering like a thief in the library . Do you think it was him?". " No doubt,
it was him. Alifa didn't allow me to borrow a pictographic book from the library so maybe he went
there for me." ,replied Eli . "But, I am surprised by the fact that Alifa did not allow you to borrow .
She never does this.. you know!. One day ,I meant to borrow a book but she was not allowed togive a book to someone, still she gave me that book taking all the risk." "I don't know why she
was like that ".
Here in the library Gilbert saw Alifa in absolutely dark clothes wearing a dark bracelet on her
wrist . "Who are you? Why did you come here?" shouted Alifa . "I am Gilbert, you know me ,
calm down... Wait a second, what are you doing here? It's surely not the time to open a library.
Gate is also closed, how you enter?" "What about you , aren't you in here too?" " What? Then
what about those dark clothes and this weird bracelet?" Gilbert was confused. "Well..I don't
think I can hide this anymore. You are my friend Gilbert, so please don't tell anyone . What you
think is appropriate, I am an exorcist and I can do black magic." The silence spread as clouds
over mountains in the library. After 5 minutes , "Oh my lord! when did you learn all this stuff?"
"You know what? Earlier and firstly I was damn interested in paranormal activities since we were
in school. Then one day, I found this lady named Lisa (showed him a photo from a
magazine).Everyone knows her in Lyon . It took me two years to learn it but she is an expert .
Please don't tell anyone, if someone else would have been in your place, I would have
hypnotised him." Gilbert was in great shock to hear all this from Alifa, the one he could never
think of doing such a thing.
Gilbert could not think of anything else and left the library with a stunned state of mind.
In the late afternoon, Eli was busy cleaning her house, and suddenly the doorbell rang for her
surprise when her mamman arrived. "Mamman!" "Bonjour! Little dove , help me carry those
bags in ."said Eli's mother Charlotte . "Hmm..."and both got in . "Mamman , yesterday Ami told
me you were going to take the morning train." While Charlotte was unpacking her stuff, she
said,'' Actually Mrs. Memoir asked me to accompany her to market and while shopping, we
discussed our trips. When I said I was going to be at Nantes tomorrow, she insisted to go
together in her car . Her sister lives here and I thought it would be economical." "Sure."replied
Eli .
Eli went to Suzanne's bakery on her way home from the studio the next day. "Mamman asked
me to get bread and croissants." "Of course , please wait for a while." Suzanne answered.
Gilbert entered at the same time "Is fresh bread available right now?" ,he asked and was
astonished to see Eli there . "I wanted to tell you something. It's good that you're here ." ,said
Gilbert . " Hi Gilbert ." , said both Eli and Suzanne. Suzanne said with joy , " I have made a new
recipe , do you want to have it ?" " Yes ! " ,said both of them . "I'll be back in a moment." ,said
Suzanne . " Gilbert , what were you trying to say ? '' , asked Eli . " "Well..nothing, forget it." '' But
you wanted to say something , Gil ." "
It's a vile thing , why to bother you , Eli ." "No ,Gil you have to tell me . Are you hiding
something ? Aren't we friends?" ,said Eli . " It's not like that ,my friend ,but I don't want to trouble
you ." , said Gilbert. Suddenly, Eli stood up and her blond hair flattered and said with aggression
, " Are you going to tell me or not ?" Gilbert stood up and lashed out at Eli saying , " You cannot
scream at me like this ." And then Gil sat down in remorse and sighed then said , " I am sorry
for lashing out at you but yesterday's morning I went to the library. I saw Alifa in black robepracticing exorcism." "No, you're joking , aren't you ?" "No ,she pleaded to me herself but you're
not to tell anyone , it's a secret, a top secret." as soon as he ended, the sound of the dish falling
broke the silence which followed. Eli and Gilbert looked at each other startled , Suzanne came
from the kitchen and confessed that she overheard them . Now it was not two but three of whom
had to keep there promise.
Eli went home with the parcel , "You are back?" asked Charlotte. "Yes, mamman I'm back and
here's what you want" . There was a nock on the door . "Hey Stephanie" "Hi, I just came by to
see aunt Charlie." "Ya , welcome." said Eli. "Oh my dearie ,how have you been Stephanie?"
"So far ,good auntie." " What good , you look so skinny , haven't you had a good diet ?" "I was a
bit busy with work but not neglected towards health. By the way isn't your anniversary arriving?"
"Oh! you remember it." "Why wouldn't she?, you are her favourite aunt!" interrupted Eli .
Stephanie remembered Charlotte's anniversary because she won a quiz contest that day when
she was in high school's first year , it was luck by chance as she never prepared that hard and
luck was the anniversary for sure .
"Let's celebrate this time. 30 is Sunday this year." ,added Stephanie. Blushing slightly, Mrs.
Groshier answered ," Oh !please". Hearing all the noise Ami climbed down stairs to see who's
there ,"Steph , it's you". "Yeah! Hi Ami. It's me, we were just planning to celebrate the
anniversary of our beloved aunt Charlotte. Not necessarily an anniversary celebration but we
just want to throw a party on Sunday and it happened to be her anniversary that day by
coincidence . Now tell, what should the plan?" You are so stupid Stephanie , don't you know our
father is dead , you are so insensitive Steph ,get out!" ,said Ami vigorously . " I am sorry Ami! I
didn't want to hurt you , I know aunt Charlotte is sad so let it be a mere party nothing else ."
,replied Stephanie .
"It was four years ago when I last celebrated an anniversary with your dad ." spoke Charlotte . "
I loved him so much I never thought of being away from him . Everything fell apart !" ,Charlotte
started sobbing . " I wasn't able to even say goodbye to him .I was so selfish working.. uh ... I
never thought that we would never meet ever again . We couldn't even give him a proper
funeral ." ,she continued sobbing . Ami said, " The cops weren't able to recover his dead body
near the railway station . They found corpses of other victims but father's were nowhere to be
found ." Eli consoled her mother by saying , " Everything will be fine mother .", and hugged her
mother . Afterwards she thought that she had to tell the secret of Alifa to her best friend
Stephanie . Eli signalled Stephanie to meet outside of the house, and she did. Eli told everything
about Alifa , and also cleared questions that came to her mind after hearing this secret.
Stephanie still could not believe and thought it was a dream. She promised Eli that she'll never
tell this to anyone.
Next morning, Stephanie went to Suzanne's bakery while going to court. Suzanne greeted her
with a big smile and asked , " How may I help you? Wait, I know your favourite is sugar biscuits?
Isn't it ?" "Yes, umm with some bread." " Why do you look so full? What bothers you?" "I
promised Eli but I don't think she would mind if I tell you." "what is this about?"
"You will surely not believe Alifa is an exorcist."
"Stephanie, how come you know this fact ? Eli had accepted not to tell anyone."
"This means you already know about it , but will she do anything like this?""It is true , Gilbert saw her performing all that . I think this news should not spread , Eli is always
silly ." "Yes, I understand"
"But I don't" ,a grave low voice appeared in the scene . "Suzanne!" shouted Peter. "You were
hiding it from me. Weren't you?" "There is nothing to hide, " said Peter. Stephanie interrupted , "
now point of discussion now. Don't reveal this secret to anyone Peter now that you know it." "
Why would I ?" answered Peter .
Here, Eliza accidently found some photos of her father while she was cleaning the wardrobe.
This time when ahe saw her father's picture, made her think about at least finding the truth as
her father's body was never found. Alifa could help her! She shared what she was thinking with
her friends. All of them supported her .As then decided, all of them went to the library the next
day.
Alifa was standing tall with her new hairstyle and a very modern bracelet. She saw all of them
entering at the same time , together . Pretty excited, she welcomed them all , also worried to
see them together. She kept looking at Gilbert doubting him. Eliza disturbed her stare and said ,
" Alifa, we want you to complete your tasks and then have a talk with us. Get free soon today."
She sensed what might be going on and asked Gilbert, "Is it exactly the same as I am thinking?"
"Ya, it is," replied Gilbert. "So you broke the promise , broke my trust and told everyone" ,Alifa
was infuriated. "Not everyone. I only told Eliza. But now everyone happens to know it. And we
want to talk to you, will you please?" questioned Gilbert. " Let's meet at my home today at
evening 6."
They went out of the library. Actually they wanted to know the secret of Eli's father by calling his
soul and they knew that only Alifa could do it for them .
At 6, they all meet at Alifa's home. " Alifa , I just wanted to ask if you could help me find the
reason for my father's missing dead body. Only you are the one who can help me." said Eli .
Eli's world had paused waiting for Alifa's answer. "If what I learned is of any use to you I am
glad to help but I am a beginner at this so it might take time ." "It's fine. If once we try I won't
bother anymore." The black and white photo of her father smiling flashed through Eli's memory."
"Ok, tomorrow, i.e. Saturday evening we will meet at the store room of the library after it closes
." said Alifa. Gilbert said , " I'm busy tomorrow night, so I won't be able to be there ." Suzanne
and Stephanie agreed and Suzanne said she would bring Peter. Afterwards ,everyone
dispersed and went home. When Eli reached her home she did not face her mother and straight
away went to her room.
Next day, Stephanie had a half day ,so she decided to clean her book shelf. The next day while
cleaning her shelf ,she found her mother's portrait at the back side of the third row sleeping in
the dust. It was unusual as she had never kept a picture of her mother in her house.
Before going to sleep, Ami knocked on Eli's door and asked, "May I come in madam?". "No." He
then softly opened the door and entered asking , "Why did you tell mamman you will not have
dinner
tonight?" "I am not hungry, and by the way I wanted to tell you something." Eli said to Ami. "
Alifa performs exorcism!" " I know already, actually heard somewhere." "But, you must not be
knowing that she's going to help me find the secret behind our father's dead body." "What?
Since when do you find interest in such things ...it is useless and superstitious." "Don't you wantto know …?" "Oh! as if that will bring him back or something !.. leave it, and go to sleep.", said
Ami .
"Hey Suzanne! I was just going to enter "said Peter entering the bakery. I know but mamman
said she will handle the last cleaning up. So, I was waiting for you. You have to come to library
tomorrow evening... Alifa will help Eli and we will help her. I think I should prepare buns for meal
. What do you think?." "Wow.. Take some break.. umm what exactly you mean by help?" "To
find about body .. dead body .", replied Suzanne. "Okay okay, let me think." Peter was glad that
Gil told everything about it earlier , he was thinking not to get involved in personal matters but
Suzanne looked exactly opposite.
Suzanne, Eli , Stephanie and Alifa gathered at the secret storeroom in the library. "Where is
Peter?" asked Suzanne . " I am really sorry but he cancelled at the last moment." I wonder if the
boys had planned it. Eli joined . "Maybe!" ,replied Suzanne. Alifa started the procedure with
candles and lit them up . When the ghost just appeared out of thin air, it spelled " I won't answer
. Stop all this." And all the candles extinguished at once frightening all the girls . Everyone
asked Alifa , "What happened?" She had no answer at that instance . Everybody looked at each
other and thought of none other than one and only plan to sprint away.
They ran into the main hall of the library and held each other's hands. "Fortune favours the
brave and let's have some bread." And stuffed her mouth with buns without caring about others.
"Why is a bun here?" Alifa questioned. "She eats when she is scared," Eli answered. Stephanie
remembered something and told them about the incident the day before which was the sudden
appearance of her mother's portrait. "How is it possible? If you had none." said Eli . I am thinking
of that too because I really don't remember one to be there till last cleaning ." "Eli, we will try it
again tomorrow." ,said Alifa . "Bring that photo, it may be useful, '' added Alifa.
The other day Alifa , Stephanie and Eli again started the procedure at the same time . Suzanne
passed by saying that she had to prepare cake. This
time Alifa had water from the river Loire as she read in the book this morning. All grew darker
and felt spooky . Candles flattered, wind blew in through window slits. Temperature lowered as
the voice quivered and said , "It was me." "Who, Eli's dad?" "Yes." " Were you actually at the
site of the accident?", growling voice answered: "It is true. I am no longer alive . Don't mess with
spirits ever again ." ,and a strong breeze opened up the windows and again the room spread in
darkness again.
No one in the room could forget that incident.
But the story does not end here , it's just the beginning . ☺
Some days passed and Eli waved bye to her mamman. On her way to drop mamman to the
station , she saw a familiar figure which was stared at her . From then till she reached home,
she felt someone was stalking her.
The way to her home was quite that day . No other vehicles could be seen the whole way but
she felt someone was continuously staring at her. She was frightened but managed to stay calm
and behave normally . When she went home, she saw Gilbert already standing there. So, she
honked at him . She parked her car and approached him and asked , " What are you doing here
?" "I was just waiting for you mon amour ." Then they went inside while they were chatting about
mother ,Alifa and the rest. Suddenly Gilbert came up with an idea , " Shouldn't we call Alifa
over for dinner to show goodwill for her helping ventures ." "Gil, I was also thinking about thesame idea . Should we go to invite her ? Wait! Why only her, shouldn't we invite other friends as
well?" , said Eli . " Nice idea , was Peter present there when all this happened?." ,asked Gilbert
." " No , but he's a friend and can still be invited as I am also calling other friends for dinner .",
replied Eli with a smile on her face . "Do you know that you still haven't told me anything about
what happened.. Eli ?" ,said Gilbert with cold eyes. "Oh lord! how could I forget?" and Eli told
him everything that happened.
They went to Alifa's house, and Gilbert decided to drive. Afterwards they went to Stephanie
, Suzanne and Peter's home too and invited them all. Till 8:30 ,everyone arrived. When Eli and
Suzanne were serving food to everyone, someone knocked at the door. They were surprised
and though who could that be? Peter opened the door and everyone was shocked to see that
the person was Mr. Zack Groshier , Eli's father. Everyone took a step back , Stephanie Suzanne
ran inwards ,Alifa hid behind Eli who herself was hiding behind the dinner table. The situation
was terrific.
His clothes were torn with dirt all over as if he was a vagabond. " How is this possible? He's a
ghost.. ?" said Stephanie . Suzanne shouted ," You definitely made a mistake while calling the
ghost , that's why he's back!" " No , everything was done properly !" Alifa responded with vigour
. " Then why is it back !" asked confused Suzanne . " Back ?" Shouted Peter .
"Uncle Zack ! You died four years ago , how can you be back?" said Gilbert . "What do you want
from us ?" asked Eli.
Zack was noticing everyone's facial expression. He took a step forward , came inside and said,
"I am human. Don't be afraid of me. Eli I am your father and I am not dead ." To prove himself,
he took a knife from his pant's pocket and cut his finger which bleeded . Then everyone was
sure of him telling the truth. " Have a seat everyone. I will tell you everything and please calm
down . And Eli.. coffee please ." said Zack .
He said , " four years ago when the news of the train wreck came out I was a member of GDES
which means General Directorate of External Security as an agent ,undercover on a mission .
To sum it up ,I had to catch some rival spies of whom we had information of them being on that
train but it didn't go as per the plan and I had to implement plan B after which I had to go in
hiding to ensure safety of my family ." Then there was complete silence in the room for a while
which was interrupted by Eli. , " Were you the one following me from station to home ?" " Yes !"
said Zack.
"I think we should leave ." ,said Gilbert . "But you haven't finished dinner", said Mr. Groshier . "
It's ok sir, we'll leave now ." ,said Stephanie . "Yes , we will see you soon." ,said Alifa. Everyone
thought that Eli's father was home after a lot of days and it was getting late as well ,so they took
her leave allowing Eli and her father some time for themselves . After a while, Eli decided to
write a letter to her mother . She wrote about her father returning back at their house and
informed her about how astonished and happy she was and told her about the exorcism she
had seen being performed . When Eli's mother read the letter ?she wanted to do nothing but to
go back to Nantes .
No one other than Alifa thought if Eli's dad was alive then who was ... the GHOST??
She searched for any relevant reason the whole night. Every book she knew , every article she
read , any mysterious happenings of the past but she couldn't find it . To her the mystery of a
ghost and the same person to be seen alive were like sun rising from the West , and stars thatcould be seen during the day. Did I make a mistake? Was that not real , or was that
daydreaming? How could it be so? She questioned herself. The best she could do about that
was to inform her mentor and find a suitable way out. So she wrote a telegram as follows...
"nahima shirikoe de foer." Actually, it was a code between the two in cases like these. Now she
felt a little relieved.
Next morning, Eli greeted Zack at the breakfast table and left in a hurry to get to her job. "Does
she always do so?" asked Zack to Ami. " Yes ,she is busy in the morning hours. Designing work
and all that. Well, I will be late tonight , shipments are arriving at 4, 6 and 9. So eat whenever
you want ."
"Okay.. well ,where is Charlotte?"
"She is in Paris. I hope Eli writes to her so she will return by the week ends." "Fine".
Alifa was at the library like any other day but her thoughts wandered near the same lane.
Suzanne came by the library to see if the cookery book she borrowed last month was still there.
She thought that if she had to try 4 recipes then at least a two weeks time would be nice but the
library allowed only 10 days time while entering the library." Bonjour! Will I get the same recipe
book today? Alifa." " I will see for myself . Can you come with me for a second?" "What ?
Where?" Alifa held Suzanne's hand and went to a lonely end of the hall to tell her about her
concerns. "What? Is that ghost of evil demon's? Will it attack us?" "No, but it was surely not of
Eli's dad, he is alive." " Who was the ghost then?"
" May be .." "Alien I knew that he was a"
"Not an alien but.." "Then who?"
"Well, I telegrammed my mentor, let's see what she tells.."
"Okay ."
" Here , it's the same book." " Thanks a lot , umm I will tell this to" " ya, you may" said Alifa .
Suzanne sighed at the record book and went back.
Few days later Lisa, Alifa's mentor, arrived at Alifa's place . Suzanne was already there in the
living room. Lisa came in guns blazing and questioned Alifa , " What have you done , I have
never heard of anything as such before. How's that possible ? Where is la livre , the book ?",
without even noticing Suzanne.
"Is it possible to bring back that spirit? I know it's a very difficult task and involves a risk of life
Madam." ,pleaded Alifa.
"Ya! but there is no other option, we have to go through." Said Lisa.
"There is always another choice." interrupted Suzanne.
"I am leaving tomorrow.", Lisa said in an arrogant manner.
"Where?" asked puzzled Suzanne.
"to my home, you fool."
"She is not very fond of quizzes ..ha ha... Suzanne hmm" and again whispered in Suzanne's ear
" She is not very talkative, and doesn't like interruption."
"Please don't leave, we still haven't revealed the truth yet. " Alifa pleaded again.
" Okay , I'll return after clearing mysteries, .. you need some time for you to do preparations."
,said Lisa."Yes.. whatever you say ."said Alifa . "You have 3 days. I want that book I gave you . Also the
black cloth robe. " ,ordered Lisa .
"Alright , the book is secure in the library and I will bring back .", said Alifa.
"We will call all the friends , don't worry, I will tell them .", said Suzanne.
"For what ? Are we celebrating something? Only bring those who are needed." ,argued Lisa.
Later ,Suzanne and Alifa went out to gather things and inform friends, "Why is she so rude?"
,asked Suzanne.
"She was alone for 20 years , no family , no friends, only her magic books and naughty
students.", replied Alifa.
" But what to do about inviting friends? She would blow me off if I tell anyone."
"It's not like that, call Eli , Stephanie... Oh! just tell everyone, I will handle her. Did Stephanie tell
anything more about her problem? We can ask madam" ,enquired Alifa.
"Okay , I will leave now, bye", waved Suzanne to Alifa as they separated by the divergent road.
Alifa went to get the book at the library. It was the first time that she left the library at work. On
the way, she recalled when she was handed the book as the most sincere student of Ms. Lisa ,
the hours she spent just looking at the book , codes she cracked from the book , colours which
amazed her and that day when she refused Eli to take the same book.
She took the book and applied for a 3 days holiday at the library office.
Eli was happy to see her father home every day and wanted her mom to return so that they all
could be together again .
Everyone gathered at the secret storeroom of the library. "Are all of them involved with the
mystery?", questioned Lisa to Alifa's friends.
"Yes , I am ,am I not?" ,Suzanne answered and felt confused at the same time.
"You bitches! don't you understand?.. I need to concentrate and it's not a masquerade here!"
,shouted Lisa . Suzanne's face turned sad and depressed.
"We will not distract or disturb, I was the one to ask for that favour " ,said Eli defending her
friend. Alifa followed suit
"We can't just send them home."
"Then what.? carry a session to show off my skills? Anyways..let it be. Time's near about." ,said
Lisa. "They will stay quiet." ,said Alifa.
Candles lit and they were waiting for the moon to shine but suddenly heard someone screaming
upstairs. "What's that ?" ,asked Lisa . "Let me look!" saying that Alifa went upstairs and to her
surprise, Mrs. Groshier stood right in front. Before she could ask anything, "Oh dear! Where is
that secret room? You wouldn't mind if I join. Would you? My little dove is here..right?" ,enquired
Charlotte. " Yes, but.." " Oh! just take me there. " Charlotte held Alifa's hand and moved towards
the stairs. Alifa could not think of anything to stop her when she said she wanted to see the
person taking her husband's place in heaven.
When the two entered, everyone else was shocked to see her. Lisa again shouted, "What's
wrong with these humans? Alifa, is that lady shouting?" "Umm.. I was told that the ghost took my
husband's place so I am here too." "Woof! Some should stay out. It's not a palace."
"Well , if it was not for my husband, I wouldn't have interrupted." , replied Mrs. Groshier.
"Mamman." "Your dad told me everything this morning." "Please Stop now , it's the time for the
moon to glow." hastened Lisa."Rhooom, oooom khaw khaw,
Simmroha khimroha ...thuyy.....ooomm...dhow.." Lisa uttered a minute long spell from the
book ,while the room again became chilly , wind rushed in through the window . Her robe
dangled , silky greyblack hairs waving and everyone's conscious breathing. Whole site was as
steady as the lake we see. River Loire's voice filled the spine-chilling silence.
A hazy figure out of the window caught everyone's sight , Charlotte said in a whistling voice "Ask
him" "shhh...shuu" ,interrupted Alifa.
"What was on your mind ? Where did you die? What do you know of the Groshier's plight?"
,asked Lisa to the ghost in a purposeful voice.
A tray containing sand from Loire's basin displayed some specific signs. Again Lisa asked, "Are
you the same who came that day ? Tell me, tell me." The same tray changed it's configuration.
" Well , well so don't say , don't repeat the words once said ...once said" ,her voice grew thin
and thin as she stopped. The breeze blew off the candles and now everyone else was curious
but Lisa stood bewildering.
No one could understand what just happened, so they tried asking it their way. "What
happened? What did the ghost say? Was he sane ? Did he understand you?" ,asked Charlotte
in a curious way. "Was there a mistake in my procedures?", asked Alifa in a trembling tone. Lisa
was still as a mountain and did not answer them.
"Why is she quiet? Did the ghost haunt her ? Did she die?" ,asked Suzanne in a childish
manner. "No, she might be thinking." ,replied Alifa. Stephanie stood quite as she waited
patiently for the response and the mysterious portrait struck her memory . Lisa's mind was lost
amidst. As soon as she saw the candles blown out, she came to the present . " Yes , yes he
said ...he said something miraculous.... something absurd." , said Lisa . "What miraculous?"
"He was Jack Groshier ..Mrs. Groshier , certainly protecting Mr. Groshier."
"He was Jack? But"
"Who is Mr. Jack ? Aunty" , asked Suzanne.
"He is my uncle, I mean was my uncle", said Eli. "But we surely never saw him." said Stephanie.
"Yes , because Eli was very small when he passed away dear, I am glad that it was no stranger
." ,answered Charlotte.
"Oh! I see , I didn't know." "But, I knew. Eli told me once." said Stephanie.
"So, was there my mistake or was it the spirit mistaken?" asked Alifa again.
"No, he came instead as he thought to see you and also to conceal his twin brother, he would
be in danger if anyone knew he was a spy. He was protecting him." ,answered Lisa .
"Now, I understand. hmm." While saying ,Suzanne put her arm over Stephanie's shoulder and
that jerk made the photo within her grip slip to fall on the floor. "Oh! I am sorry." said Suzanne.
"It's okay , I will pick up." When she was about to pick the photograph Lisa stopped her. "Wait ,
do you know who she is ?"
"My mother." ,replied Stephanie and picked up that. "Why did you ask ?" ,asked Eli.
"Does that matter? And it's none of your business. Wind up Alifa!" ordered Lisa .
That day all of them returned to their respective houses. All sorted still Stephanie couldn't ask
her query.
Charlotte conveyed her words to Zack saying it was Jack who saved his disguise and that she is
relaxed now. Next day , the family had breakfast together and were happy together.Stephanie was still in a dilemma whether to think about the mysterious occurrence of that
photograph or just let it go as nothing ever happened. Lisa's sarcastic negligence puzzled her
more. "Did she really know something different about her mother?" The question remained deep
within her mind.
Suzanne as usual was working in the bakery when Stephanie visited her . "Bonjour ! What
would you like?" ,exclaimed asking Stephanie. "It's fine. I just came by to ..." said Stephanie.
"What ..no bonjour? Are you sick ?What has happened to your smiling face? Stephanie! Is
everything alright?"
"Actually, no! I think Ms. Lisa knows something about my mother."
"Really? Then it must be true. She is always angry but don't fear. Alifa knows how to make her
spill."
"Today morning, there was a strange incident, some note ,see this letter. I never knew this
existed."
"It looks very old and tarnished.Is that your mother's signature?"
"Yes. It is. I will go to Lisa and find how it can possibly be delivered at the sender's own house?"
"Will you go alone? It's risky.I will come along."
"Okay , I will meet you at Alifa's home at 7, and ask her before she leaves.", stated Stephanie.
At Alifa's house Lisa went on packing her stuff and also the book she once lent Alifa. The
doorbell rang, " Who is this?" ,when she opened the door
"I am in a really urgent mode , so answer immediately." ,rushed Stephanie. "Stephanie, this isn't
court to sort like this." , saying Eli calmed Stephanie. Yes , Eli. Suzanne had some serious
issues with her new recipe so she sent Eli instead.
"Which answer ? Isn't the mystery solved , and yes miss.. I am in real hurry so please don't
mind ." , again Lisa started over on checking her bag.
"This is my mother's photo who died of a heart attack when I was 1, and this is her letter that I
never saw before. It was left at my doorstep. What does this mean?"
"Why are you asking me?" "Because you are someone who knew her. Am I wrong?"
"Ow! this doesn't convince me though, l knew her doesn't mean I knew this."
" A day you performed the procedure and the next I found this letter addressed to Jack, how
suspicious do you find it . Will this ever be delivered at sender's own address? Answer me! I
need an explanation!" ,screamed Stephanie. Eli saw fire in her eyes and Lisa's drowning
attitude was as clear as crystal.
"Even if you fear to tell us the truth , truth never hides; it reveals itself." , supported Eli.
"Do you want to hear it even if it hurts?"
"Yes , all those noises , those clues, and weird feelings of loneliness . I don't care about being
hurt . Court cases are always this shocking." , said Stephanie firmly.
"Hear then, your mother was in great love with Jack . They married secretly because of her
father's fear who strictly prohibited her to do so. He didn't consider their marriage and married
her to some other guy but you were in her womb by the time . I don't know if you are his or Mr.
's...Sorry to say so , but distinctly when Jack attempted suicide knowing she could never be
hers his entire life, she had an attack too. This is all I know.", answered Lisa in a stiff voice.
Everyone was in shock for a span of time. But, now it was time for everyone to leave.All the girls started leaving Alifa's house and going to there's. But, Stephanie was still trying to
sink in the fact that her mother was in deep love with her friend Eliza's father's twin brother and
neither Eliza's nor her father knew about it. She was standing still when Alifa shook her, "Stop
thinking Stephanie. What happened had to happen. Now, all you need to do is believe in fate
and go home happily. You need not be sad about anything." "But she said I was in her womb
before she got married to my father. That makes me Eliza's sister. Do you get it? Do you know
what I am going through right now? But that doesn't make any difference to the love I have for
my father. Doesn't matter if I am his biological daughter or not." , said Stephanie."Hey! You
sound confused. But why? Don't you remember what Lisa exactly said? She wasn't sure if you
are his daughter or your father's." Alifa tried to make her comfortable. "Yes. I do understand all
of it but I need all of you to not expose this secret to anyone else. This secret should be kept
within us our entire life. My mother is no more and I want to keep this secret from my father. I
don't want my father to hate her when she is no more. It's better if less people know about it." ,
said Stephanie with trust in her eyes. "We promise, we are not going to tell this to anyone." ;
said all, turn by turn. "Love you all, friends." Stephanie was sounding comfortable now.
Everyone went to their respective homes. Alifa unwore the locket that she was wearing as she
prepared to sleep. She was pretty exhausted that day. She opened her drawer to place it where
she found something. "To Alifa, by Lisa" was written in bold black letters on it. On the page was
written,
'This has appeared with my black magic. Couldn't tell you what happened. But you are
supposed to know it. Just act smart and destroy the page as soon as you complete reading it.
Stephanie is Eliza's father's twin brother's daughter, not of the one she considers to be daughter
of. Mikael, her mother's husband, once overheard Stephanie's mother talking to Jack while he
was on his way home after playing 'Golf' with his friends. He saw her and was confused
because at that time, she was supposed to be with her friends, but here she was , with a man.
He was wondering what made her lie to him when he heard Jack saying, "Bye, love!" This
shocked him because she had never told him about any other man she knew besides him. He
walked fast away to his home. Stephanie's mother followed. Mikael turned to her asking, "Hey!
You're back. How was your evening with friends?" "Good, pretty good. How was your golf?" "Do
not lie to me. I just saw you in the street corner with a man calling you 'love'. After a lot of
confusions and lies, Stephanie's mother was left with no options but to confess. She said, "I
loved Jack before I married you. We married secretly because my father wouldn't allow me to
marry otherwise. As soon as my father came to know that I was married to Jack, he made me
marry you. But, Stephanie was in my womb by that time. She is Jack's biological daughter." Alifa
, Mikael was in great shock to hear this. He made Stephanie's mother to leave home after that
and threatened her to never enter again. He was in obvious rage. She did not then ever wanted
to come home and was living in a cottage after that. She went through depression of not being
able to meet her daughter again and her home being destroyed because of her. She committed
suicide. Stephanie is told that she met with an accident due to which she died. Alifa, again, it's
very hard to know that I once loved Jack. Jack left me because he wanted to be with
Stephanie's mother. When Jack came to know about her death, he told me everything. That'show I know. He told me that he didn't want to survive any more and was planning to commit
suicide. I tried to stop him but I couldn't. He drowned himself in the river outside your library.
Mikael was very attached to Stephanie so he brought her up and still continues to be her father.
Lisa'
Alifa was left stunned as soon as she completed reading the letter. Due to her being super
exhausted, she forgot to destroy the letter and went to sleep straight after.
In the morning, the doorbell woke her up and she saw Eli and Stephanie with a cake. "Happy
birthday Alifa!", shouted Eliza and Stephanie in excitement. "Ya! Today is my birthday. How
could I forget my own birthday?", was Alifa's reaction. "Well, these days have been very
exhausting. Since, everything is normal now, we'll celebrate today." Alifa agreed and said: "Ya!
tonight we'll be sleeping together, we'll have fun, watch movies and dance together."
It was dinner time now, Eli was helping Alifa in the kitchen while Stephanie happened to be in
Alifa's room. She spontaneously opened Alifa's drawer and was surprised to see 'Stephanie'
written almost everywhere on a page. She didn't read it at that moment and hid the page in her
pocket and planned to read it in bathroom when the two of them would sleep.
At 2 a.m. , when Alifa and Eli were asleep, she went to the bathroom and read the complete
letter. 'Terrible shock' are the only words that can describe her feeling at that moment. She
placed that letter safely in the drawer as it was placed before.
Clock struck 7 in the morning. Alifa said 'Bye!' to both the girls and thanked them for making her
birthday memorable. After two hours, exactly at 9 a.m. , she was about to leave her home and
go to the library. She opened the door and saw Stephanie standing. What she saw next, was
beyond her imagination. Behind her, was standing Stephanie's mother , who's portrait she had
seen. Stephanie's mother gave her a cunning smile and said, "Good Morning! , Alifa"
...To be continued
