Waiting on the Stars - Chapter Four

 

Checking her reflection in the smart mirror, Adele examines her face while sitting at her vanity. To the left side it lists her schedule for the day, providing the outdoor and indoor temperatures, as well as projecting a streaming newscast.  Tapping the mirror, she programs her air-pod to prepare for her departure in one hour at 8:30 am.  The mirror informs her of how many minutes she acquired of REM sleep that night, her current weight, and hydration level. It also lists her network of friends to greet in the morning if she chooses to connect with them. As a final touch, her smart mirror is also an air purifier helping to create a healthy environment for her home.

Listening to music as she uses her facial steamer as it extracts particles from her pores, Adele feels cool and refreshed. Tapping the mirror with two fingers, it slowly scans her features for any blemishes or skin irritation.  Highlighting the image of her face, it points to some dryness on her forehead. Using an automated facial scrubber, any remaining makeup is removed.  She applies a magnetic face mask to lift any impurities replenishing her skin with a mixture of carrot seed oil, sunflower oil, vitamin C and E. Placing a small round brush on her cheek that attaches to her mask, it removes the magnetic treatment for a smooth clean finish.

Grabbing a small bottle of hydrating moisturizer, she gently rubs the cream until it is absorbed below the surface of her skin.  She waits thirty seconds and scans again to see that the cream has resolved the dryness issue.

“Please use the Sensation scent today”, requests Adele as the vanity sprays a light mist of hypo-allergenic fruit and floral scented perfume.  Adele applies the milk makeup holographic stick to enhance and lighten her facial glow.

Walking to her closet, she stands in front of her long dressing mirror as the revolving rack displays various outfits.  In the long mirror, an image of each item is projected on to Adele’s reflection in the mirror so she can visualize what each of these outfits will look like on her form without actually having to try one on.  Sorting through about twenty possibilities, Adele finally chooses her favorite lemon chiffon top with descending “v” collar and white matching slacks.  Glancing into her shoe closet, each shelf opens and then returns to its storage space.  She chooses a pair of yellow mobilizers that have a cushioned toe with quality arch support, however the shoes do not offer any heel decoration leaving an image of one dancing on their toes. Her shoes buckle at the ankle with magnetized fasteners for comfort that have been customized to her foot size.

Just before stepping out the door, she finds her mid-calf long sleeved coat with sides that have been diagonally “slashed” in the middle section, a trendy fashion detail, one of Adele’s recent splurges from the Holo-mall this past fall. 

“Vera, please turn out the lights and lock the door”, requests Adele as she steps onto the Air-pod porch and leaves her rental home. Touching a feature on her bracelet to identify her fingerprint, the air-pod releases the door locks, opening the air-pod for Adele to enter.  “Hello Vera, take me to Bank One on Aurora Place”.

As the air-pod moves swiftly past other vehicles on the airway, Adele relaxes into the comfort of her captain’s chair, reviewing the latest trends in advertising for travel. Images float in front of her as she considers the color, texture, and tone of each appeal.  She considers what features are attractive and that engage her to discover more information. Evaluating the emotional allure of each artistic piece, she determines the scale of their intrinsic value. 

Taking a momentary break from her study, Adele looks out her window to see Raiden in the air-pod next to her own.  Recognizing Raiden, she is excited to see him so unexpectedly.  As she is observing him, Raiden happens to look up and notice the woman watching him from the air-pod nearby.  Adele deeply blushes but nods on being caught.  Taking a minute to realize that it is really Adele just across the way from him, Raiden smiles politely and displays a short hand wave before his air-pod curves to the left to head to his workplace.

Upon reaching Bank One, Adele smiles to herself feeling as if the day will be a great day.  Adele slides her clear crystal savings bracelet into the kiosk.  A 'Fate' greets her, which Adele remembers is another name for a 'Financial-A.I.-Technician', “Hello Adele. Welcome to Bank One.  How can I help you today? Would you like to discuss your long-term savings plan?”

“I would like to look at real estate options in the Upper Crestwood Area”, requests Adele having previously entered her specified request for a home within her affordable price range.

Within seconds, 3-d images based on her savings plan appear before her. With recent neighborhood closing costs and values listed next to each image, Adele considers the options available to her. Adele moves her hands to sort through the images rotating in front of her.  As she focuses on the virtual 2-inch door with her retina moving her eyes to the upper right corner of the ceiling, the images enlarge so she can view the interior of the home.  Contemplating her dream plans, Adele sighs and wonders if everything will come together for her to work at Marks Enterprises.

After concluding her consultation, Adele deeply lost in thought contemplatively walks towards the air-pod portal. Her head bumps into someone standing in front of her.  She notices the thick black shiny boots perpendicular to her own shoes. Embarrassed but not looking up, she whispers “I’m so sorry, please excuse me.”

She hears a familiar voice chuckle, “What happens if I don’t?”

Adele snaps her head back to see Raiden standing in front of her with a teasing smirk. Adele whispers “Hi …”

“I didn’t expect to see you here.  Do you also do your banking at Bank One?” asks Raiden hoping that he might be running into her in the future as well.

“Yes, I was just looking into some realty options for myself”, Adele replies “I’m currently renting a household unit, but looking for a more permanent location to settle.”

“What area were you looking in?  Maybe I can help you.  I have several contacts in the real estate business”, offers Raiden wanting to feel useful and helpful to her.

“I’m looking into the Upper Crestwood area” offers Adele feeling slightly nervous that it might appear too obvious that she is planning on getting the position at his company.

“Really? I live in Upper Crestwood.  I definitely can be of help to you”, suggests Raiden considering that it might enable him to spend more time with her. “When are you planning to look?”

“I hope to find something this next month that is affordable and suits my needs”, anxiously Adele replies twisting her ankle to the side in a subconscious nervous moment.

Watching her ankle move in an old familiar pattern, Raiden is pleased to see a reaction that she is slightly nervous talking with him, “You don’t need to worry, I have some time available on Monday if you are free.”

“I don’t want to inconvenience you, but that would be fantastic!” exclaims Adele consoled that she will have someone much more knowledgeable about the process of purchasing a home with her.

“Shall we meet at my office at 10 am on Monday?” extends Raiden “If you’re not too busy that day, we can have lunch after viewing some of the locations.”

“Sounds great!  Thank you so much, I really appreciate your help” genuinely remarks Adele feeling as if their friendship has revived once again.

“Ok, I’ll see you then”, Raiden nods his head as he turns with a slight jump in his step.  After turning away from her, he can't help but to smile to himself as such a wonderful random future opportunity together.

Adele bites her lower lip as she slightly blushes, excited to be spending another day with her old friend.

Walking onto the air-pod portal staging area, she notices the woman from the hologram the other day exiting an upscale air-pod on the platform.  Pushing a ruffled teal jacket back onto her shoulder, the woman rushes in her four-inch heels into the bank appearing to be late for an appointment.  Adele wonders if the woman is meeting with Raiden, “Why am I even concerned?  I just saw him again after twenty years only yesterday.  I’m sure he has plenty of friends.  It’s none of my concern”.  However, her rationale does not console her internal discomfort.

“Vera, please take me to Starcups at Market Place Square” resigning requests Adele sliding into the plush chair. Adele pulls out a mirror from her bag and realizes she does not look quite as together as she had thought this morning. She grins at her image and confidently states out loud, “What does it matter? I am who I am. I don’t need to look like a model as that woman does. Being me is okay”, repeating what she had recently heard in a popular self-help podcast but not necessarily entirely believing the mantra.

The air-pod reaches Starcups where two of her newest friends are waiting for her.  As Adele approaches the table, Jennings and Alice Hammer appear to be in a confrontational conversation.  She can hear Jennings say, “No Alice, I don’t think chocolate and tomato sounds good together.  No, not even as a sauce”. 

Adele can see Alice Hammer shaking her head, “You just haven’t tried it.  You need to try my cookies! You will definitely change your mind.”

“No, I don’t think so.  Chocolate and tomato do not sound good together unless it is something like mole but then chilies and garlic are added.  I don’t want to eat spicy cookies”, assuredly Jennings replies having been tortured with other experimentations of Alice Hammer’s cooking and baking.

“They are not spicy, they don’t have chilies in them only a touch of garlic.  They are a savory cookie." offers Alice Hammer quite perturbed that her friend will not sample her latest cookie invention “I did put a secret ingredient in the batter though to make it taste even better.”

Deflecting attention, Jennings relieved looks over to see a new friend walking towards her, “Oh look Adele is here” pointing to a chair for Adele to sit next to Alice Hammer.

“You wouldn’t mind sampling a cookie, would you?” asks Alice Hammer holding a container of red cookies with dark brown chunks in them and other questionable items as well.

“Uhhh… sure”, answers Adele as Jennings furiously shakes her head warning Adele of future indigestion.

“Here you go, this one looks really good and it looks like it may hold all of the wonderful flavors I added”, excitedly points Alice Hammer to the largest cookie.

Adele carefully takes a bit and subconsciously chokes as large tears form in her eyes.

“The cilantro might get you a bit.  I might have added a little too much tabasco sauce”, concedes Alice Hammer considering how to adjust her recipe.  “How do you like it?”

“Don’t ask her that question, Alice.  She doesn’t know you, she won’t be honest with you”, adamantly argues Jennings taking a large sip of her drink.

Alice Hammer gives Jennings acute daggers.  “It’s because you don’t bake. You don’t understand the higher delicacies of confectionary delights”.

“There is another name for that and isn’t delightful”, truthfully remarks Jennings hanging out her tongue as if it on fire.
 

“Okay Alice, now that our new friend appears to be crying, tell her what your secret ingredient is that you added”, instructs Jennings wondering if Adele will want to meet with them again or just think they are two crazy old ladies.

“Well, I love coming up with new recipes.  We have a contest every year at my church. I think that I might have the winning cookie recipe this year.   I was thinking I would call this ‘blood and fire’, what do you think?” asks Alice Hammer looking for a good name for her new invention.

Jennings rolls her eyes, “I think it needs to go to hell and stay there. You still haven’t told her what’s in it yet.”

“It’s an interesting name, it sort-of suits the flavor”, kindly offers Adele feeling as if the roof of her mouth is on fire.

“It’s ghost pepper sauce.  I put half a cup in the batter along with some cilantro and a dash of horseradish sauce” explains Alice Hammer “I just love baking!”

“Someone needs to lock her in a closet because she’s a delusional baker”, grunts Jennings feeling a victim of various failed experiments.

Amazed at the chatter, Adele giggles taking another bite of the horrendous cookie and feeling the tears unnaturally well-up in her eyes, “Thank you for the cookie.  It’s wonderful to meet you, Alice Hammer”.

“Oh, I think we are going to be great friends!’ Alice Hammer excitedly claps in the confirmation of their new friendship.

“Do you bake?” asks Jennings not sure of Adele’s palette for fine food.

“Not really.  I like to experiment as well”, confesses Adele who neither cooks nor bakes above any level other than to sustain life.

‘Oh, I see”, observes Jennings “Perhaps you wouldn’t mind being Alice Hammer’s assistant when she needs a victim .... urr, or I mean someone ... to sample her creative genius.”

Alice Hammer and Adele smile and nod at each other in agreement, Adele offers “I would love to.”

In response Jennings defeatedly shakes her head but pleased that Adele was so kind and accommodating to her lifelong friend.

“So, how did your interview go?” asks Jennings wondering what she will be able to share with her friends at the senior center.

“It went well. I don’t know if I have the job yet though.  A committee determines who will be hired”, explains Adele somewhat confident the interview actually went well.

“Where did you interview?” asks Alice Hammer curious to know more about Adele’s interests.

“Marks Enterprises, for the Marketing and Trade department” explains Adele nervously folding her hands in the opposite direction.

“Marks Enterprises!  That’s where Jennings’ grandson works.  Do you know him?” inquires Alice Hammer.

“I’m not sure who you are asking about.  What is his name?” inquires Adele hoping that she will meet Jennings' grandson at some point.

“His name is Raiden Worthington.  At first, he might appear a little standoffish, but he’s a nice guy”, truthfully considers Jennings “He’s quite smart, but he takes his time making a decision, sometimes too long and misses an opportunity, especially in the romance department.”

“Oh yes, he’s wonderful.  If I was twenty years younger, I might take my chances”, dreamily offers Alice Hammer winking with an exaggerated smile.

“Check your math Alice, it’s more like forty”, corrects Jennings taking a sip of her drink and taping her fingers on the table.

“Oh yeah that is right” agrees Alice Hammer adding the numbers in her head “math never was my thing.”

Adele smiles and giggles to herself, “He seems like he is still a nice man.  We were acquainted a long time ago.”

“Did you know him?” curiously asks Jennings “When did you meet?”

“We were on a service team together as young adults.  We were in Taiwan working with a children’s home.”

“Oh how thrilling!” declares Alice Hammer quite loudly for other customers to turn their heads and with even more enthusiasm “How erotic!”

“Alice, I think you mean to say exotic, not the other word” flatly corrects Jennings quite familiar with her friend’s rather unique usage of vocabulary.

“Oh yes” smiles Alice Hammer trying to place it in her memory bank “Exotic, that’s the word.”

“Yes, it was very interesting” adds Adele feeling her face return to a normal color once again.

“What kind of things did you do while you were there?” asks Alice Hammer unfazed by anyone around her.

“We lead outdoor evangelism meetings for children, cleaned and painted the classrooms, played games with the children and got to know the families through the feeding program” explains Adele recalling some of the most precious moments of her life.

“I love to travel and learning about different languages and cultures” explains Jennings.  “My late husband and I use to be missionaries in the earlier years of our ministry. I met some wonderful people during that time and made some life-long friends.”

“Would you ever consider being a missionary if the opportunity came again?” asks Adele wondering about the adventures of her new friends.

“I’d consider it, if they would consider me.  They should have a summer service corps for seniors.  I’d go in a heartbeat.  I could manage two months of my time to help somewhere.  I don’t move as fast or as well, but I can still do some things.” ponders Jennings inspired by her own words.

“What about you? Would you do missionary work again?” Jennings returns the question to Adele who is slowly tracing the rim of her coffee cup lost in thought.

“I’d like to try again one day in the future.  I’m not sure about having the opportunity or how I could afford it, but I would like to”, sincerely states Adele wondering if another change would ever be available to her.

“Sometimes our moments are just small stones in a larger pond, but we never know what or how many stones it will take to reach the other side”, offers Jennings “You may have another opportunity, you are just not aware of it yet”.

“Well I hope that stone appears some time for me”, wishfully states Adele hoping that it is a promise of things to come.  “It was really good to meet you and Alice Hammer today.  Would it be possible that we can meet again maybe next week?”

“Love too!” exudes Alice Hammer “Next time you need to come to my apartment at the senior center!”

Before Alice Hammer can offer a further invitation of details, Jennings jumps in “I’ll bring dessert and tea for everyone”.

Adele smiles and waves goodbye to her friends, looking forward to their next meeting.

Waiting on the Stars - Chapter Three

“I’m so sorry Isla that I’m late”, apologizes Raiden taking off his jacket in the comfort of the small dining room of the upscale restaurant. “Have you ordered?”

“I already scanned the menu, I’m ordering the usual” quips Isla taking a rather large sip of her drink and in an accusatory tone. “What took you so long? I’ve been waiting hours.”

Feeling slightly annoyed, Raiden looks at her contemplating what to say, “It hasn’t been hours.  I’m only about twenty minutes late.  You usually run late, so I shouldn’t be scolded.”

“Let me tell you about my day.  I had my hair done at Juliet’s Salon and then took the air-pod over to Wynn’s for a manicure.  Look, don’t you love the digital coloring for this season.  I need to get a new set of nano nails, I’ve had these for over a year.  The new ones now will change into four options of colors rather than only two.  They are still a little on the expensive side, but I’m worth it!”

In response, Raiden politely nods his head not entirely convinced that this is where he wants to be while hearing about the flexibility of nail color.  “Sure” Raiden finds himself non-committedly saying out loud.

“Did you have a bad day?” asks Isla crossing her legs so that Raiden will notice her long lines and slightly pouting while stroking his arm “You don’t seem like yourself. Did everything go all right at work? Were you making millions for me or only a million for yourself?”

“I had a good day”, contradicts Raiden contemplating if he should mention seeing Adele again but decides against it.  “I was busy with several meetings.  The Elyson Foundation would like to work with us which we are considering.”

“Is that the same company as the Elyson Resorts?  I loved staying there!  They have such beautiful hotels with so many different amenities. I haven’t been to one lately though.  They started to close down”, reflects Isla feeling the disappointment of not finding a good local spa that compares to the ones provided by the Elyson Resorts.

“Not the same company, but related as part of one of their enterprises", Raiden explains in case anything were to ever come up concerning Adele.   “A distant cousin by marriage of the owner of the Elyson resorts runs the Foundation.   His name is Argon Elyson – Wynn.  His former wife was an Elyson.  He is a widower for a few years now.  She was traveling with the owner’s wife of Elyson Resorts on the hover train that derailed a few years back during the storm.  Argon’s wife and Mr Elyson are second cousins but there is a bit of an age difference. Argon is my age. I knew Argon Wynn as he was known then quite well in college but that was a long time ago.”

“Oh, so they are related.  You could have just said that”, annoyingly replies Isla on hearing too many details at one time liking to remember connections that will serve to her advantage later, “What do you want to do this weekend?”

“I haven’t given it much thought”, exasperated responds Raiden not sure that he wants to commit any more time to her right now. “What are your plans?”

“I would like to go to Oragone Falls” exudes Isla recounting many memories of vacations there as a child “I haven’t been in ages, its so beautiful this time of year too! I don’t think there is any area quite as lovely in the entire Upper Crestwood Region.”

“It has greatly improved since they created the lake areas for a more natural state”, remarks Raiden wondering if there might be a chance that Adele has ever visited this park area too, suddenly hoping that there might be a chance to invite her at some point.

“What are you smiling about?” asks Isla miffed that his focus seems removed from solely herself, “Are you considering going with me this weekend?”

“I don’t know that I’m available right now.  Maybe some other time”, sincerely excuses Raiden not wanting to hurt Isla’s feelings but not wanting to commit any further time to her.

“We definitely have to make plans.  You can’t make any excuses and leave me with my friends while you stay in your office all weekend again”, pouts Isla feeling that he offers more attention to his work than to her.

“Hello, my name is Katie and here is your food”, announces the AI with a tray of delicious looking heat enhanced food and then slowing nodding to each of them, “Can I help you with anything else?  Would you like more to drink?”

“Yes, some strawberry juice would be nice”, replies Isla tossing back her hair to one side and moving her chin up for a view of her long neck, and then smiling up at Raiden providing a better view for him.

“Here you go” offers Katie the AI after filling the glasses from her storage compartment that dispenses drinks for table service.

“Did you see the new lipstick I purchased?  It’s called “Moonlit Glow” from Acculine.  When I touch the corner of my lip, it colors both lips perfectly.  I’m hoping they come out with more colors soon, this is so easy to apply”, shares Isla amazed by the recent advances in cosmetics.

Not paying too much attention to the conversation, Raiden yawns “I think that I may need to call it a night.  It’s been a long day at work.  I’ll drop you off.”

“Okay.  Maybe I’ll call Jayden and see if he wants to go out dancing since you seem too tired to do anything else tonight”, playfully states Isla trying to make Raiden jealous or at least hoping for an offended reaction.

Completely oblivious to her attention agenda, Raiden responds “That sounds like a good idea.  I like Jayden, he’s a good guy.”

Staring him down, Isla swiftly stands up and heads to the door to wait for Raiden to pay with his account and take her home.  He gently swipes his hand at the restaurant emblem embossed at the corner of the table not raising his eyes to look at her.

In the Air-Glider, Isla lays back and relaxes while the vehicle navigates itself to her home.  Raiden checks his schedule for the next day.  There is no conversation until they reach Isla’s home and she offers, “Call me tomorrow.  I’ll let you know our plans for the weekend.”  Raiden compliantly nods not sure if he will make time on his schedule to call or not.  

As the glider starts to move towards his home, Raiden reviews Adele’s resume.  Looking at the information, his heart instinctively leaps and feels a sense of excitement at the possibility of working together again.

Meanwhile, Adele is at home making some hot chocolate and relaxing in her living room.  The floor wallpaper actively moves, creating living scenes of the oceans with whales and dolphins swimming in the floor beneath her.  She changes her selection to an inner forest of redwoods with birds and squirrels moving among the branches with sounds of the wind blowing through the leaves.  After a few more minutes, she changes the scene to one of snowcap mountains with the fresh scent of pine filling the room. At of all the renovations in her new home, this has been the one that has brought the most pleasure.  Her home only offers three different scenes in the living room, but she knows others who have up to fifty different choices throughout their home for each room.

“Vera, please open the memory portal.  Find Raiden Worthington.  2021” requests Adele sighing “I wish they had memory technology then.  Rather than looking at these old photos and videos that although somewhat automated with help from an AI, I could actually see an image of him standing here in my living room.”   Images flash and float in front of her which she can pause to admire before moving onto the next one.  “At least I can see these for now and remember a few of the experiences we had together.” 

“Vera, please open articles. Find Raiden Worthington. 2040-2047”.  Multiple articles and images pass in front of her. Interviews come to life in 3D imagery. Short screen images of ten to thirty seconds offer commercials of longer storage capacities of information. “Hey, isn’t that the woman I saw on the palm of his hand when she called this afternoon?” asks Adele out loud to her pet Labadour resting next to her.

Holding her palm upright and pushing on the reflected image, the article enlarges to nearly four feet tall as she magnifies the picture in the article to have a closer look at the person in the photo.  “That’s Isla Grove! I babysat her when she was a little one and I think that I was a junior in high school.  Wow, she’s grown up to be a very pretty woman.  I wonder what she is doing now.  It seems like she has been dating Raiden this past year or so.  How very disappointing …  I hope they are happy together though.  They look like a beautiful couple together.  Well, at least we can be friends even if the future is already taken for anything serious.”

Resting in the comfy pillows of her sofa, Adele continues to read and look through the different media sources on the life of Raiden Worthington.  “We’ve both gotten older, but his smile has remained the same.  I wish that I had reached out sooner when he was still available.   Who am I kidding?  He probably was dating someone else then too and why would he choose to date me instead"  considers Adele in her thoughts but then unintentionally speaks out loud to her empty home, "It was a nice dream for a moment”.

“Vera, close the memory portal. Turn off the lights. Prepare the temperature to 69 degrees in my bed”, requests Adele ready for a good night sleep, satisfied with the events of the day and excited for the possibilities of tomorrow.

 

 

Waiting on the Stars - Chapter Two

In the lobby, Adele stands in front of the full wall directory wondering where she would like to go next for the rest of the day, not ready to go home before clearing some thoughts from this afternoon.  An image of the entire city is below her feet. On the screen it displays options of restaurants, entertainment, museums, lodging, etc.  She chooses by providing a short wave over the square block titled “restaurants”.  A series of tear drops appear on the virtual map below her shoes.  Adele decides a caramel macchiato is just what she needs to calm her nerves from the interview earlier in the day.

Descending the circular gliding escalator, Raiden notices Adele by the location directory.  He observes her from across the rotunda.  Her hairstyle has changed and she is older, but she is still the same woman he remembers.  She seems to his memory to appear more confident and accomplished now, but maybe not as adventurous. Pondering why he didn’t make more of an effort to get in contact with her earlier in his life, he considers there were so many excuses both real and imaginary. Fearing that she had found someone else or that maybe he hadn’t accomplished enough to impress her or her family, things had been difficult when they had parted ways nearly twenty years before and it was daunting to think that it was possible to start over again.  Their lives had moved in different directions with goals influenced by their circumstances.

As he leaves the escalator, Raiden sees Adele step away from the city directory and head towards the Market Street level exit. Anxiously he observes her, moving behind a guest who is considering a foreign language class that a hologram is offering with 25 percent discount if they sign up today. The guest looks a little surprised at the man standing to her side.  While watching Adele pause for a moment as her suit changes into auto-temp mode, Raiden recommends to the guest “This is a great product, I’ve tried it.  Great conversational programming with virtual narratives.”

As she heads out the door, Raiden follows Adele at a safe distance where he is the least likely to be noticed.  When Adele enters the Primo Café, Raiden quickly moves towards the same location as he contemplates what excuse he will give if caught intentionally following her.

Tapping her lower ear to select a playlist, Adele listens to some of her favorite music while waiting in line for a gourmet coffee and Danish from the vending processor. Standing in the queue six feet from her, he glances at the menu at the vending kiosk. He selects a couple of items while the translucent apparatus audibly gives nutritional value and calorie intake for each selection.

A couple of minutes later, Adele takes her coffee and Danish in hand while heading for a booth meant for just two people.  Raiden slowly approaches where she is sitting engrossed in a crossword displayed on the table in front of her with a virtual keyboard to enter answers.  He finally reaches the table, but it doesn’t appear that Adele has noticed.  Raiden clears his throat, “umm … I personally prefer Suduko.”

She looks up at him and stares for a moment.  Adele feels like she can’t breathe as she senses that all the air has escaped the room.  She can’t bring to the surface her voice, as she perceives that she is not sure it has ever existed. Suddenly Adele audibly hears herself release a guttural “Oh ...", feeling her face burn in embarrassment.

“Do you not like Suduko?” joking asks Raiden surprised at her rather loud response but notices how embarrassed she has become offers “The trivia games are not too bad”.

“I’m not very good at Suduko, but I do like trivia” weakly smiles Adele gathering courage continues, “I don’t know if you remember me.  There really wasn’t a chance to ask you during the interview.”

“Yes, I remember you” slowly replies Raiden shifting to his weight to his back leg for more support, unsure what reaction Adele will have while acknowledging this fact.

“Ms. Daring told me that you don’t like bringing up connections and that I shouldn’t attempt to during my interview, but I’m not sure if knowing you twenty years ago would be a current connection or not” impulsively adds Adele wanting to be honest, “I guess it depends on if you still consider me a friend or not.”

Pausing before speaking, Raiden begins “I think that I will always consider you someone who was special to me at one moment in my life even if things have changed now.”

Looking down at her coffee to contemplate what he just said, Adele genuinely responds “I’m glad that you remember me, you were special to me too a long time ago.”

“I wanted to ask during the interview but didn’t feel the appropriate time was available, did you know that I manage the company?” curiously asks Raiden nervously tracing the edge of his cup with his finger.

"I didn’t know.  Liana knows the HR manager from college and told me to apply for the position” Adele explains while anxiously wondering if it will disqualify her for the position that she needs and would like to have.

“Unexpectedly I saw your name on a list of applicants that came across my desk and requested to interview you to see if you were the same person I met many years ago” confesses Raiden taking a sip of his coffee hoping that it will not appear to be a strange thing to do.

“Really?  I feel complemented that you remembered me, it has been such a long time ago” offers Adele feeling more comfortable with him as their conversation continues.

“Do you still travel much?” asks Raiden wondering if she will truly wants to stay in Kell City. 

“I do when I can afford it”, honestly replies Adele wishing the opportunity came more often than the actual reality of traveling.

“Do you still perform in concerts?” inquires Adele having seasonally looked him up from time to time over the years.

“Yes, occasionally as a ringer when someone else is not available or on vacation.  It’s definitely not consistent”, admits Raiden not realizing until that moment how much he missed performing.

“I'll be honest, I use to find articles about you a few years ago.  You were quite good” compliments Adele rather proud over the years of having known someone who was so talented.

“Well, thank you but that is definitely in the past”, blushes Raiden touched and pleased that she would remember even in her absence.  “I looked up your articles on your travel as well, so I guess we’re even.”

Both smile and nervously sip their coffee as memories flood their thoughts.

“Do you have a family?” asks Adele interrupting her thoughts not sure if she is prepared for the answer now that they have met again.

“I tried marriage for a few years quite a long time ago, but it didn’t work out and we each went our separate ways”, sincerely offers Raiden concerned that this might be an issue for her “I don’t have any children.  What about you?”

“I was married for some time until he decided that he no longer wanted to be married to me and would rather be with someone else”, calmly Adele replies long past the pain of that decision “I have a daughter and a son, but they have their own families now. Time does fly and moves on too.”

At that moment, Raiden’s wrist lights up.  As he holds out his palm a rotating hologram image of an attractive modern woman appears.  “I’m sorry I have to take this call. I forgot that I have a dinner appointment. The selection process is determined by a committee but if it works out, I look forward to working with you.”

As Raiden begins to walk away heading towards the door, Adele speaks loudly “It was good seeing you today.  Maybe we can go for coffee again sometime in the future.”

“Sounds great! Looking forward to it!” blithely promises as he turns away. Wistfully Adele's eyes follow him, as Raiden disappears into the crowd along the moving sidewalk outside.

 

 

 

Waiting on the Stars - Chapter One

The curved shapes of the skyscrapers sparkled as the sun casts its shadow on the smooth glass windows.  As the brisk sounds of traveling air-pods move past their flight zones, Adele wonders what the future might hold in store. She knows that many unexpected yet wanted changes will soon be coming her way.  Tracing her index finger along the outline of a portal station in the distance, Adele can feel her heart race in anticipation of what the next day will hold.

As the doors slowly break their seal of containment, an automated female voice announces, “Adele Elyson, you have arrived at the Union Station portal.  The weather is 65 degrees, cool and breezy.  Would you like information on shopping, stocks, or directions?”

Pausing only for a second, Adele answers “No, thank you Vera.  I’m good for now.”

The automated voice responds, “Shall I assimilate the temperature to your outfit?”

“Yes, that would be helpful” replies Adele feeling the fabric disperse warmth through the climate adjustment fibers of her polyptych suit.  Admiring her choice of the silver and white stream-lined tailored suit that she ordered from the Holo-Mall specifically for her meeting today, she is grateful that the imaging worked well with her projected measurements.

“The poly-wear temp has been adjusted.  Is there any other way I can help you?  Shall I call ahead to Marks Star Travel to announce your arrival?” asks the comforting automated voice resonating within the air-pod.

“Thank you for calling, Vera. I’m fine for today” replies Adele looking forward to the plans for the next few hours.

“Hope you have a nice day” confirms Vera closing the airlock on the doors behind Adele as she steps out onto the arrival platform of the station. A teen boy coasting on his circular board nearly runs into her but smiles and waves as he passes her by.  Just above her drones are delivering products of all different sizes through the shipping entrance in the ceiling of the station.

Glancing at her left palm, she reviews her appointment time in the effervescent images projected onto her hand. Gently swiping with her right index finger, she reviews her notes for the upcoming interview. Checking the mission, purpose statement, and history, she commits these notes to her memory relay inside the lens of her glasses. Adele sighs deeply and focuses on her list of points that she would like to articulate.

Upon arriving at Union Station, Adele swipes her hand in the terminal register and takes the next metro-cell transport to center city where all the major corporations are located.  As advertisements whirl along the trimming of the pod, she notices many familiar companies with which her family has callaborated with in the past.

“Are you enjoying your day?” asks the older woman sitting next to her.  “I love traveling to the city where there is always so much to see and do.  I really want to get a hover board but my grandchildren are not supporting the idea.”

Looking directly at her now, Adele smiles “They look fun don’t they?”

“Yes, I think it would help me get around the senior center where I live.  It's much faster than these mobile walkers.  They have wheels but they don’t float.  I’d much rather float” sadly admits the kind woman attempting to receive some temporary sympathy from Adele.

“Maybe you could get one and just not tell them", jokingly offers Adele imagining how fun that might be.

“Mmmm … I certainly like that idea” giggles the woman throwing her head back in a moment of perspective planning, “My name is Martha Jennings, but you can just call me Jennings like everyone else does.  Maybe one day it will be Woodhouse if he’ll ever wake up from his nap that has been lasting twenty years or so. Tell me, what’s your name?”

“I’m Adele.  It’s nice to meet you, Jennings” introduces Adele excited to make a new friend.

“I’m on way to visit my grandson at Marks Enterprises” explains Jennings “However, I’m meeting my best friend, Alice Hammer at the library.  I like to read to the children and Alice likes to act out all the parts. Afterwards, we are going to do some shopping on my way to my grandson’s office but with your suggestion I’m not going to tell him about the hover board.”

“Okay, it will be our secret” agrees Adele making a pact with her new friend. “Maybe I’ll get one myself and then we can practice together.”

“Are you visiting family in the area? Or do you live here?” inquires Jennings wanting to discover more about the friendly woman sitting next to her.

“I lived here a long time ago and grew up in the area.  Working for my family business, I ended up moving around a lot.  I’m hoping to move back to Kell City if everything goes well in my interview today” offers Adele “I love this area, it feels like home.”

“I hope it works out for you to stay.  I’d like to meet you again.  Honestly, I can be of help if you need anything. I know quite a few people in the city who know a lot of other people too. You seem like a very nice person.  Would you mind giving me your number?  I like to talk, mostly to ramble about nothing because as you can see I’m at that certain age, but if you don’t mind you seem like you would be interesting to talk to”, Jennings smiles offering her wrist to scan.

“Sure, I’d love that!” uncharacteristically agrees Adele feeling as if she has found another soulmate. “Here is my number” placing her wrist next to Jennings as their numbers are confirmed and registered.

“There… I have your number, expect to be hearing from me.  Maybe you can meet me and my best friend, Alice Hammer for tea tomorrow at ten tomorrow at Starcups in Market Square if you’re not busy”.

“That sounds wonderful!” exclaims Adele “I’m looking forward to it!”

“See you tomorrow then!” smiling Jennings take a step from the pod onto the transport platform with Adele following not too far behind “Good luck on your interview today!”

Another woman, whom Adele surmises is Alice Hammer, is waiting on the platform for Jennings.  She is waving both of her arms and jumping up and down trying to gather Jennings attention who is completely and intentionally ignoring her.  Alice breaks out into her “own” dance something between a shuffle and an a few absurd cubic motions while listening to music in her ear pods.  Jennings glances up and slowly shakes her head. She raises her hand in a short wave to acknowledge a greeting while gathering her bags at her sides and then heading towards her best friend.

The optical doors open in rotating motion as Adele enters the lobby of the business conglomerate of Marks Enterprises.   A large digital banner with various slides of upcoming announcements and opportunities available within the complex shines brightly hanging above the information booth in the center of the rotunda.

At the entrance of the Market Square, a curvaceous hologram reaches out to her holding a sculpted bottle speaking alluringly, “Discover the garden of Gentle Whispers”. As Adele quickly moves through the projected image, the essence of lilac, lily, and rose fill the scented air surrounding her.  Another transparent handsome image welcomes her and suggests “improve your health in just three steps” displaying a visual list of simple steps to reach a better lifestyle.  “If it were just that easy”, wistfully Adele comments to herself walking pass the live display.

Reaching the gliding spiral escalator, Adele looks at the gallery above her.  Business leaders contained in clear multi-colored octagon globes cycle across the interior ceiling. The cyclists are suspended on tracks a hundred feet in the air, providing alternate transportation from one level to the next. Adele wonders to herself, “I admire these executives who don’t mind the heights but I’m not sure that I could do that all the time.  But I guess it beats being stuck behind a desk all day.”

Just before reaching Level 17 on the gliding escalator, Adele checks her white wedges for any scuffs or dirt, “These polythene boots were an excellent purchase. They are so comfortable, but maybe I should have bought them in a more practical color.”

A voice softly announces “You have arrived at level 17, Marketing and Trade” as she enters the corridor behind large plexiglass automated doors.  Entering the office chamber, Adele is sprayed by a tangible but elusive enzymatic mist that quickly dissipates. This is followed by a scan of the typical cell-vision for possible infections, substances, or particles that might potentially endanger any person within the facility.  The same voice announces, “Cleared. Adele Elyson has arrived for her appointment at 2:15 pm with Clayton Slay in OS 1722.”

Vibrant blue arrows appear visible in the floor beneath her with each step, giving direction to the waiting room. Finding a comfortable position in the customized shell chair, Adele selects some of her favorite music to listen to.  Although a huge k-pop fan, she chooses the translator mode which will transfer the voices of the vocalists from Korean to English in their original tone and depth but in a language that she can easily understand.  “I really need to study my Korean lessons more, but at least I am understanding some words, if not fluent.”  Reaching deep into her lab bag, Adele takes out a pin for her Ipad. Noticing a violet flower on the table beside her, Adele scans the petal with her pen admiring the blue pigment, transferring and blending into purple shaded ink on her digital notepad. 

Taking a mirror out to check her appearance before the upcoming meeting, Adele after scanning her features, the dual screen highlights that her lips are dry and need another layer of lipstick.  Rolling her eyes, she sighs and applies another layer of Acculine lip cream that supposedly guarantees to last five hours but only consistently manages two when she wears it.

The position for which she is preparing for was recommended by her good friend, Liana, who previously was a mentor but was more like a parent after the passing of her own mom a few years ago from a hover train accident when one of the rails randomly lost power during a storm.  She had hoped that her dad would have some point recognized all of Liana’s romantic qualities but so far after much effort for years had only remained in the friend-zone.

As Adele looked up a woman was stretching out her hand to her, “Hello, my name is Clayton Slay, the marketing manager at Marks Enterprises,” while analytically looking her over from head to toe adds, “Are you Adele Elyson?” Clayton is wearing a mustard short shoulder cape with angular cut-outs at the neckline of her custom fit apparel.

Standing up nervously smoothing her dress, “Yes that’s me, my name is Adele. I have an appointment at 2:15 pm” attempting to keep her balance while smiling confidently through her wide-eyed fear slightly intimidated by the well fashionably accessorized woman in front of her.

“If you follow me, I will take you to Mr. Worthington and Ms. Daring, the Director of Operations, and also the CFO of our company.  It’s a bit unusual that the Director of Operations asked to interview you.  He doesn’t usually take part in the interview process but trusts his colleagues in their choices.  I’m not implying that you will get the job but the circumstances are somewhat peculiar.  Do you know him?” curiously asks Clayton aware that there must be some connection between the two.

“Not that I am aware of” responds Adele wondering why she would be meeting with both directors.  “My friend recommended the position to me.  She went to college with the Human Resources manager.”

While listening Clayton pierces her lips intuitively fearing some competition with this stranger, “Just so you are aware, politics do not play a part in our company.  Competence is valued over connection. Mr. Worthington is a fair boss and discourages any kind of favoritism.”

‘Oh alright, that’s good to know.  I guess it helps that I don’t know anyone in the company” honestly confesses Adele wishing that she had at least done some research on the CEO not just the facts about the business.

“Here we are” Clayton points to an office a few steps in front of her at the end of the hallway.  “Would you like some coffee?  How do you like it?”

“Do you have tea?” asks Adele feeling that coffee might make her even more jittery during the interview. “I like it with three creams and sugars”.

Raising a lip that isn’t entirely noticeable, Clayton replies, "Jeeves will bring it to you in a moment.

Standing in front of the entrance to the corporate office, Adele licks her lips and straightens the edges of her casual dress comparing it to the standards of the other employees in the office.

As the glass door separates in a puzzle like fashion into the hidden alcoves of its storage, Adele’s eyes lock with an old friend whom she knew many years ago. Their eyes meet in greeting even if their expressions do not. A familiar smirk slowly rises with a gentle nod, “Adele Elyson? Are you here for the appointment?”

Caught in thoughts of in-between time, Adele doesn’t verbally respond but calmly moves her head in agreement to the current question confirming her existence not only to those in the room but to herself as well.

“This is Ellie Daring, our CFO for the past fifteen years.  I don’t know if you have met before” introduces Raiden Worthington extending a hand in the direction of the woman standing next to him.  She looks like sheer power dressed in a black form fitting pant suit with a high neck collar with obvious delicately handsewn solo-tech into the fabric.  Adele has seen similar outfits in fashion magazines worn by high-end global models, affordable only for the inconceivably wealthy.

Speaking formally with little warmth in the inflection of her voice, Ellie Daring explains “It’s nice to meet you, Adele.  I don’t normally participate in company interviews, however Mr. Worthington has asked me to join him today to provide a second balanced opinion of your work skills and experience.”

Trying to gain her composure in the unexpected situation, Adele grasps the edge of the conference chair in front of her, “I brought my portfolio of my previous work for you to review”.

“Please sit down” directs Raiden Worthington as he detaches the lowest magnetized button of his stylish indigo jacket “Jeeves has just arrived with your flavored tea.”

The AI butler, smoothly passes the cup of tea filled with cream and sugar to her, “Here is your tea, Ms. Elyson", laying the saucer skillfully on the table and then gracefully turns towards Raiden, "Is there any other way I may be of service, Mr. Worthington?”

“No thank you, Jeeves.  That will be all for now” responds Raiden opening the digital resume that Adele has previously provided during her application. "Lets see ... it looks like you have quite a history of writing marketing ads for social media. What type of writing do you enjoy?”

Wondering if Raiden recognizes her or if is choosing to not remember her in front of his colleague, Adele swallows before speaking, “Umm, I uh ... write articles for social apps, travel, and entertainment.  I particularly enjoy writing about travel or literature.”

Again, Raiden’s eyes intensely match Adele’s concern but without any other conformation of acknowledgment. “I see that you have spent a great deal of time living in different locations this past decade or two. Do you have plans to permanently settle in Kell City or are we only a temporary stop? It looks like your family business, Elyson Resorts, has already taken you to many locations.”

Tilting her head to the side, Ms. Daring seems amused. Detecting a slight sneer in his tone followed by a very formidable look at Ms. Elyson.  This confirms to Ms. Daring that she needs to have very little concern about being replaced in her position.

Folding her hands back and forth, Adele softly answers but wanting to be truthful, “I hope to stay at Kell City for a long time if the circumstances work out to do so.”

Leaning back and stretching as if to inhale the space between them, Raiden replies, “I’m sure your experience has helped you to become a more effective writer.  I see a list of accomplishments and recommendations in your portfolio that you have provided to us.  How dependable are you as an employee?  Do you find yourself being inconsistent or able to complete tasks?  It’s amazing how some can adjust and adapt to so many changes in a short matter of time.”

As the deluge of character questions continue, while taking a sip of her coffee, Ms. Daring raises her eyebrows finding it entertaining that this potential employee is experiencing an interrogation rather than an interview.  She has never seen her boss act his way in the hiring process of a potential employee, only in the deliberation of an acquisition of another business opportunity.

Finally, Raiden turns to Ms. Daring, “Do you have any questions that you would like to ask Ms. Elyson?” closing his notebook at the same time.

Feeling as if the interview may have gone just a minute too long, but also wanting to add to the discussion, Ms. Daring asks, “Why do you want to join Marks Enterprises and not let’s say a successful company like Elyson Resorts that is owned by your family?”

Biting her lip before beginning, Adele decides to be truthful albeit humiliating to confess during an interview, “You’re right Elyson Resorts was successful.  However due to some less than advantageous investments and unguarded spending, our company had to reduce in size and diversify.  The tourism branch is dismembering to shift funds into more marketable products.”

“I suppose this was due to the pandemic in 2042 about five years ago?” inquires Ms. Daring aware that many companies were affected during that time which resulted in the transition and reorganization of the economy.

“Yes partly, but some consequences were already set in place due to poor management and lack of potential planning” frankly responds Adele knowing that her father’s desire to have more than he could afford kept them always finding ways to try and recover from a business inherited from his father.

“Do you think you’ll be able to be content in a lower position, considering the power and opportunities you previously held while working for your own family?” cynically Ms. Daring inquires wondering if she will need to remind Adele of her place within the hierarchy of the employment realm.

“I’m a hard worker and will do my best no matter what position I am given”, honestly responds Adele, fully aware of her own standards by which she judges herself, let alone anyone else.

Rising while he is speaking, Raiden remarks “It was nice to meet you Adele, we will let you know in a few days how the position will be filled.”

Cautiously Adele looks at him to see if there is any recognition that they use to know each other or if he has completely forgotten their friendship twenty years earlier. For a second, she feels as if he remembers as his lip slowly raises into a partial smile, but he quickly looks away gathering his things. 

Adele disappointingly sighs inside her thoughts believing she has been forgotten, “Thank you for your time.  I appreciate you giving me this opportunity.  Hope you have a good day.”

“Yes, we hope you have a good day as well” responds Ms. Daring while Raiden remains stoic and silent beside her.  A second later, he turns to the side cleaning his optic lenses and wiping the corner of his eye acting unaware that Adele is leaving the conference room.

Feeling as if she is missing something, Ms. Daring remarks “Well, she seemed like a nice woman but not very reliable.  She’s moved around too much.”

“Yes, she has been many places and probably forgotten a few people that she has met before” absentmindedly adds Raiden looking out his office window at the panoramic view of Kell City.  “It’s probably very difficult to remember each person that you have known before under different circumstances.”

Ms. Daring moves her eyes from one side of the room to the other not knowing who he is talking too but realizing she is the only one left in the room. She cautiously proceeds, “Did you know her before?”

“Maybe.  I’m not sure how much one “knows” a person just by spending time with them” in a tone slightly sarcastic Raiden replies “I think that I am going to take the rest of the afternoon off. There are some things I need to do.”

He raises his hand as a virtual screen of pages, web sites, graphs, and charts appear before him.  Raiden moves his hand as if to erase an old-fashioned chalk board and the images disappear for a later time to be reviewed again.