He never showed. Not to the airport. I've searched everywhere here in the train station, but I don't see him anywhere!
When I arrived in Paris two days ago, I hired a taxi and went to his house. I knocked several times, but he never opened the door.
I was met with a horrible sight. He never left the door unlocked when he went out. Something was wrong. Pushing the door open, I stepped into the kitchen.
Broken glass and papers were strewn all over the floor.
Blood...there was blood, too.
"Lucas?" I called his name, thinking perhaps he had gone upstairs or into his garden. No answer came.
"Lucas, it's me! Are you hurt? Where are you?"
No reply.
I slipped off my shoes and carefully began picking up the broken glass. Then, I tidied the papers. That's when I found it.
A note, in Lucas's handwriting.
Sweetheart,
It has begun. I could not come to the airport. I was being followed! Go to the cottage where we met and stay there until it is time to go to Maienfeld. I'll meet you at the train station and take you there. Do not look for me. Wait, and stay safe until we meet again. Godspeed!
Lucas.
I left the house hastily and went to the cottage. Who had been following Lucas? Was I being followed now, too? Who could have known what we are up to? I told no one. And I know Lucas would never betray our secret!
So who?
Five more minutes. I'm dizzy again. I hadn't eaten anything this morning for fear I might vomit. I'd best try to get something down.
Carefully, I pick my way through the ever-increasing crowd and make my way to the little kiosk and place an order. I take a seat on a bench nearby and begin to pray again.
Where are you, Lucas? Please, God, let him be safe.
An elderly man approaches me and asks if he may share my bench.
"Yes, of course! Have you eaten this morning?" He looks frail and tired. He has a look of loneliness in his eye, and I wonder if he has anyone to care for him.
I tear my sandwich in two and offer him half.
"Marci, cherie. You're very kind. I am Clyde. I hope you don't mind sharing your bench with an old man?"
"Not at all. I'm waiting for a friend, but I can't find him anywhere in this station!"
"Would you like me to wait with you? I noticed you have some troubles." He nodded toward my crutches. When your train comes, I'll be happy to help you with your luggage. You're so very kind to an old man!"
I should have refused his offer, for his own safety's sake. How could I? To have aroused his suspicion could have spelled disaster!
I thanked him and smiled nervously.
"Are you all right, cherie? You suddenly look very pale."
"Crowds make me uneasy. My friend is very late."
Clyde gave me a look. Then, he leaned in to whisper. "I have a message for you. Be very careful when you show your papers to the guards. They will be looking for you. Get on the train as fast as you can! You will be safe in Switzerland."
Did Clyde know about Lucas's disappearance? I was too frightened to ask. Did Lucas send Clyde to warn me?
Before I had time to question Clyde, an announcement came over the loudspeakers.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we are sorry to inconvenience you, but the train to Maienfeld has been delayed for several hours."
I had no way of knowing my nightmare was only beginning.
To be continued.
