Autumn Hearts (Updated Regularly)

Chapter 02 : Dreams are for real.

"Everybody doesn't get a combination of wit, spunk, culture, and common sense like you. They come only from heaven. Don't you trust yourself?"

Fred WhiteSell's words accompanied Penelope as she entered her library - a high ceilinged, wooden floored, airy space which showcased colorful books in wall-to-wall bookcases. Penelope was partial to this lovely room which had been beautifully proportioned. She had filled this otherwise plain white room with artistic elements, a small carpet and cabinet shelves. Books were color coordinated in the colors of rainbow, from Violet to Red. This was her own sign of peace and harmony during the dark hours of her life. It reminded her that there was hope. The bookcases were tidy and smart. Books were pulled forward to the edges and some of them were even stacked flat, adding extra visual splendor.

The tranquility in the atmosphere made it an intimate place. Penelope moved barefoot and felt the warmth of the blue oriental, Persian rug under her feet.

As she picked up the movie script from the Rovatti table and sat on the white Le Corbusier chaise, Mia, jumped over her at once, knocking few vibrant colored pillows. Penelope saved her Arco lamp in time. And made a mental note to not leave her energetic pet alone again. She was glad to see her bearded collie. The loving and playful dog wagged her tail and thrust her nose into her palm.

Penelope patted her gray coat in affection. "You are acting goofy now days, old gal! I missed you during my morning walk. And I'm not very happy. You need your exercise. A jog with Audrey?"

Mia lifted her muzzle and looked up with her gray, far set eyes. They were not much visible under the coat which hung over her entire body, including the chin. Then she settled herself before the fire, licking her side.

Penelope stood and looked out of the window. Her exquisite garden was a riot of colors at this time of the year. Jacaranda trees filled up the major part. Lush walls of Bougainvillea were in full bloom. Jacaranda trees filled up the major part. The grass underneath created a smooth carpet. She touched the crimson flowers, which had cascaded and massed beneath the window and sighed. Why it was so hard to be happy when she'd things other people prayed for? But the answer was obvious. That was stuff bought by money. And she desired other things. Penelope had never dealt with anything more difficult than her own soul. People said love hurt. But did they know the pain loneliness caused? Or the scars a death created?

"I wish I can be more laid back. I'm too steamed up over this entire issue of Adam McKellen." She talked with Mia. With a swift motion, she pulled out the brown Thonet chair and moved the flower vase in another corner to make space for the script. Morning sun filled the room with its glory and richness as Penelope opened a drawer and pulled out her favorite pen. If Fred Whitesell wanted her to read that script, she was going to take her time.

"You don't even realize how lucky you are, Ella."

Audrey entered the room. Mia strained her silken ear in affection and laid a chin upon Penelope's knee. Then stared at Audrey who vegged out on the couch throwing herself on the deep, comfortable sitting.

"Lucky because two of the big guns decided to meet me? I'm upset regarding last evening, Drey. That was some outfit. I didn't like that chintzy thingy."

"I thought it was rather cool, darlin'. My latest boyfriend gifted it. Y'know, I'm liking him. The man has deep pockets." Audrey said with a huge grin.

Penelope shrugged her shoulders and closed the draft.

"You are the craziest bird in the world. Make sure Whatshisname doesn't ditch like the last one."

"Jack is such a dope, but I adore him."

"Did you sleep with him Drey?"

Audrey was removing her nail polish. She stopped in between and looked up to Penelope.