Mattie Hyatt pulled the heavy gold curtain back from her drawing room window and peered outside. It was the gray day she’d feared when she’d awoken early, her knees aching. Still holding the fabric, she eased herself into her rocking chair next to the window and leaned forward to get a better view. The grocer across the street stood next to the produce cart stacking apples into a crate. A coffee shop occupied the first floor of the apartment building on the corner, several buildings down from the grocery store. Stores and offices now occupied the ground floors of most of this block. To her knowledge her own three-story building was the only one that was still all residential.

So much had changed in the forty years she’d lived in this apartment. She shook her head. Had it really been that long? It seemed just a few short years ago, she and James had moved to the city. They had already been out of college and married five years, then. How exciting it had been to land jobs in the city after growing up in a small town.

Mattie noticed the grocer wave to her, and she waved back. If the rain held off, she’d make her twice a week walk over there this afternoon. The present grocer, a pleasant young woman, was the granddaughter of the man who ran the store when she and James had first arrived. There’d been lots of kids living on the block then. Her own two children had plenty of playmates when they were little.

She sighed, wondering what her son and daughter were doing today. They both lived on the West Coast, and probably weren’t awake yet. She thought about calling, but they always seemed so busy and distracted, and she’d spoken to Wendy a few days before.

A car horn caught her attention and she watched a young man run through the crowd in the crosswalk, pushing people out of the way. Must be late for work, she mused, as he ran out of view.

The intercom buzzed. She dropped the curtain, hurried across the room, and pushed the call button. “Hello?”

“Mrs. Hyatt.” The man panted. “Please let me in. I’ll explain as soon as I get upstairs.”

Mattie squinted at the unclear picture her doorbell camera picked up. “Do I know you?”

“You know my father.” He glanced over his shoulder. “Knew my father. Please, I don’t have much time.”

“Dear me. I think you’re quite rude.” How did he know she lived here and on the second floor? “Why should I let you in?”

He shifted from foot to foot. “James Hyatt told me to come here if I was ever in trouble.”

Mattie winced at the name, but let him continue.

“Some men who’ve been trying to kill me followed me. I don’t have time to get away.” He stared into the camera his lip quivering. “Please!”

Despite her better judgment, she buzzed the front door open and walked into the hallway.

The young man ran upstairs and past her into her apartment.

Mattie entered, closed the door behind her, and looked him up and down. His dark brown hair curled wildly around his ears and reached his shoulder. He wore black sweatpants and a gray hoodie, and towered over her.

The young man jumped as a crash of thunder sounded.

“Good thing it hasn’t started to rain, yet.” Mattie ushered him around the corner into the kitchen. “Well, have a seat.” She motioned him toward the kitchen table. “Would you like coffee or tea?”

“Whatever is easier.” The young man slid into the straight-backed chair, which looked too small for his muscular build.

“I made coffee this morning.” She stood at the counter and glanced over her shoulder. “It’s still hot. Cream and sugar?”

He nodded and she reached for a mug from the cupboard.

“I suppose I should ask your name.” She poured the coffee and brought it back to the table on a tray with a sugar bowl and a carton of half-n-half, then sat opposite him.

“My name is James Hyatt.” His voice was soft and his eyes locked on hers as if he wanted to memorize her reaction.

It took all of her will to keep her heart from pounding at the mention of her husband’s name. Experience kicked in, and she gazed back at him, then shrugged. “What a coincidence.” She broke eye contact.

He leaned toward her. “It’s not a coincidence.”

“What are you saying?” Mattie raised an eyebrow. Nobody had mentioned her husband in years.

The young man took a sip of his coffee and set the mug on the table.

Mattie stood and stared down at him with what she hoped was an imperious look. “Why use my husband’s name to get in here and then all this mystery?”

“Please have a seat.” He nodded toward the chair she’d vacated.

She narrowed her eyes, but her feet were tired anyway, so she sat. “Tell me what’s going on.”

He cleared his throat. “I was named after James Hyatt. He’s my father.”

Mattie hopped to her feet again. “He most certainly was not. You are younger than my own kids. I know my husband.” She felt shaky and sat down, again. “At least I knew him.”

He peered at her. “Do you know where he is now?”

“He was declared dead eight years ago.” Her lip quivered. “He’s been missing for fifteen.”

“He’s not dead.” James reached for her hand.

Mattie snatched her hand away and stared at the young man she couldn’t think of as James. If he ended up staying around, she’d have to call him Jimmy. She took a deep breath, unsure if she felt hopeful or hurt. “Why are you telling me this, now? And what trouble are you in?”

He sighed. “I can’t tell you much.”

She leaned forward. “You’ll tell me everything or you’ll leave this instant.”

He closed his eyes for a second. “It’s for your own protection.”

“I’ve been around a lot longer than you.” Mattie stood and stalked toward the door. “For your own protection, usually means you’re going to end up dead anyway.” She opened the door, stepped back so she could see into the kitchen, and motioned for him to leave.

He stayed seated. “James didn’t tell me what to do if you wouldn’t help.”

She placed one hand on her hip. “James knew a very different Mattie than the one standing here, now.”

Jimmy ran to the door but instead of leaving, he pushed past her, slammed it shut and threw the deadbolt. “They’re here.”

The intercom buzzed.

She squinted at him. “How did you know?”

He put his finger to his mouth and shook his head.

She nudged him out of the way and looked at the screen. “Someone is leaning against the camera. I have to answer it.”

Jimmy shook his head, his eyes wide.

Mattie pushed the button. “Who’s there?”

“Police. May we come in?”

Mattie swallowed and pushed the button again. “I’m not dressed yet. Can you give me a minute?”

“We can wait a few.”

For a split second, Mattie thought about turning Jimmy in. Instead, she walked him to her bedroom and pointed out both the closet and the French door that led to the balcony. “You can either wait here or leave. There’s a fire escape.”

Jimmy headed toward the closet. “I’ll stay here. Thank you.”

Sending up a quick prayer for guidance, Mattie smoothed her blouse over her slacks as she walked back to the intercom and buzzed open the main building door. She waited, listening to the two officers ascend the steps and opened the apartment door before they could knock.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.” Mattie waved them inside. “To what do I owe this visit?”

“Sorry to bother you ma’am,” the younger man said. “I’m Officer Sutter and this is Officer Brown. We’ve been following a suspect, and we think he may have shown up here.”

Mattie showed them her most baffled expression and shook her head.

Sutter consulted his phone and recited a description of young Jimmy. “His name is James Hyatt. Does that ring any bells?”

“Of course, it does. It’s my dead husband’s name.” She smiled and raised one eyebrow. “But he’s not in the habit of visiting.”

Brown, a thicker, more mature man, slid between Mattie and Sutter. “Sorry about that ma’am. We didn’t notice the name. We’ll be on our way.”

“Are you sure it’s a coincidence?” Sutter said as Brown dragged him to the door.

They stopped. Brown turned and handed Mattie his card. “If you hear anything, please call me.”

Mattie cocked her head. “What is this James Hyatt wanted for?”

“Just questioning.” Brown ushered Sutter into the hallway.

Mattie closed the door behind them and waited until she heard them descend to the next floor.

Before she could get to the bedroom, Jimmy rushed out. “Thank you, Mrs. Hyatt.”

“Don’t thank me yet.” Mattie placed Brown’s card in her bosom and patted it. “I want my questions answered, or I will turn you in.” She motioned toward the table. “Now why don’t we go finish our coffee?” She headed toward the kitchen. “Good thing I didn’t bring them in here. She stopped short when she saw the table. “Where’s your cup?”

“Right here.” Jimmy handed it to her.

“I don’t remember you taking it with you.” Mattie held her hand up to stop whatever Jimmy was about to say. “No matter. I’m sure I wasn’t paying attention.”

She took Jimmy’s cup and hers, both about half full and warmed them up in the microwave. It gave her thirty seconds to gather her thoughts. Was this kid a telepath or was he just intuitive? What she most wanted to know was James’s whereabouts, but maybe she shouldn’t start with that. She’d have to go easy if she wanted that information. The microwave beeped and stopped. Mattie took the cups over to the table and sat down.

“Now, Jimmy.” He scrunched up his nose, so she added. “You don’t mind if I call you that, do you? I just can’t think of you as James.”

Jimmy gritted his teeth. “That’s fine.”

“Tell me what brings you here.” Mattie leaned toward him. “Why are you running from the police?”

“Oh, I’m not running from them.” His brow furrowed. “I’m not sure what they were doing here.”

“So, who are you running from?” She took a sip of her coffee.

He swallowed and glanced toward the doorway. “The man I used to work for.”

“Why?” Mattie set down her cup. She wanted to ask if he’d stolen something or knew too much about someone, but decided the best tack was to let Jimmy answer at his own speed. Lacking patience, she raised her eyebrows and looked straight into his eyes.

He averted his gaze. “It’s a long story, Mrs. Hyatt.”

“Wasn’t planning on going anywhere until late this afternoon.” Mattie leaned back and smiled. “I thought you wanted to stay here for a time. How long do you need to hide out?”

“Not sure.” Jimmy ran both hands through his hair and stood. He walked toward the window and peered out without getting too close.

Mattie stood and strode to her chair by the window. She looked out but didn’t see anything out of the ordinary. “Why are you watching out the window? Can’t you tell if someone is here?”

“Not until they’re close.” He gaped at her. “How did you know?”

“You told me the police were here before they rang the bell.” She paused for a second. “Though you didn’t know it was the police, did you?”

He shook his head. “I only knew someone was here. I thought it was my boss’s henchmen.”

“Are you sure it wasn’t them?” Mattie furrowed her brow. She hadn’t asked for ID. Those men could have just been posing as police.

“They wouldn’t have left so quickly.” Jimmy sat on the sofa, head in his hands, elbows braced on his knees. “How did they know where to look?”

Mattie watched his knees jiggle and listened to his low mumbling and rapid breathing. She could almost smell the panic and confusion. “What do you need from me?”

“Time to think.” He lowered his head a bit more until he was almost completely folded in on himself.  

Mattie took a long look at him as she pulled herself out of the chair. Something in his demeanor was familiar. She’d let him have his space and do her thinking as she worked. She busied herself by cleaning the kitchen, then prepared lunch. Who was this young man and why would James send him here? Especially if he was in danger.

James had told Jimmy to come here if he was ever in trouble. She’d assumed that meant to let him stay, but what if it didn’t? What if it meant that she’d be able to help him get away or defeat the people who were after him? Was Jimmy really James’s son? If so, James had had an affair. She thought she knew him better than that. Wouldn’t she have known if there was someone else?

“Lunch is ready.” Mattie placed two hotdogs, green beans, and since she didn’t have any fries, an ear of corn on his plate. She placed the dish on the table, realizing she hadn’t heard any movement. When she looked into the living room, Jimmy sat in the same bent over position. He wasn’t motivated by his stomach like James. She approached him and snapped her fingers. “Lunch!”

He blinked and looked at her.

“How well did you know your father?”

“About as well as anyone could. Saw him every day I was growing up.” He clamped his mouth shut and glanced away.

Mattie narrowed her eyes. “How? He was here most of time.”

“Did you say lunch?” Jimmy jumped to his feet and strode to the table. “That looks good. I’m hungry.”

“Good.” Mattie followed him. She picked up his plate and held it away from him. “I’m not serving until you answer my question.”

He opened his mouth then clamped it shut.

“And don’t tell me you can’t answer because it’s for my own protection.” Mattie pointed at him. “I don’t need protection. I’m old and if I die, I’m going to heaven anyway, so out with it.”

Jimmy sat at the table and Mattie sat across from him but she kept his plate in front of her until he started talking.

He sighed. “I’d tell you but I don’t think you’d believe me.”

“I know you’re clairvoyant.” Mattie waved her hand toward him. “Or at least have Extra Sensory whatever.” She glanced at his plate. “Just tell me the truth. Then we’ll figure out what to do.”

He let out a long breath. “Okay. I’m not clairvoyant, but I do have enhanced senses.”

Mattie slid his plate across to him. She had to wait a bit while he wolfed down his first plateful.

He swallowed and eyed the corn on the counter. “I’m not from here.” He bit his lip. “No, I am. I’m from the city, but not this one.”

She narrowed her eyes at him.

“Okay, so my world is similar, but it’s not the same. I guess you’d say it’s parallel.” He glanced at the counter and closed his mouth.

She dished up another hotdog and two more ears of corn. “Go on.”

He continued his monologue about this other world between bites.

She didn’t eat much herself. His story was enough to digest, but she had a feeling he wasn’t telling her everything.

When he was finished eating and talking, he sighed and leaned back in his chair, looking more peaceful than she’d seen him yet.

She pressed her hands on the table. “Just getting it out, helps, doesn’t it?”

He nodded. “So does a full belly. I haven’t eaten much in the past few days.” He patted his stomach and stood, lifting his plate from the table.

“You don’t have to help with the dishes,” Mattie said.

“It’s the least I can do.” Jimmy took her plate and both sets of utensils to the sink.

Mattie stayed at the table, her back to Jimmy. “Is James happy, in that other life?”

“Not sure. I think so.” Jimmy turned on the faucet.

With the water running, she knew he wouldn’t be able to hear her. She wanted desperately to find out more about James, why he did it, but first, she needed to figure out how to keep Jimmy from being tracked down while he completed his errand. That wouldn’t be easy, since Jimmy wouldn’t tell her exactly what the errand was. Only that it was important to keep a balance between the two worlds.

Two worlds. She didn’t know if she believed him or not. He didn’t seem crazy, but he acted desperate. And her husband had talked to her about parallel universes a few times, but she’d always pooh-poohed it. Had James found a way into a parallel universe like Jimmy said? She shook her head, not wanting to believe it but unable to disbelieve either.

The water stopped running.

Mattie turned toward Jimmy. “Who do you need to see?”

“What?” Jimmy wiped his hands on a dishtowel.

“The errand you told me about.”

He shifted from foot to foot. “Oh, I just said I had something to do here.”

She raised an eyebrow. “So, what is it?”

He glanced over her shoulder. “I need to talk to the mayor.”

She tried to make eye contact. “And convince him that you’re from a parallel universe?”

His eyes darted around the room. “Something like that.”

She pushed her chair back and stood. “If you want my help, you’ll have to tell me exactly what you need to do.”

Jimmy dropped the towel on the counter and stepped toward Mattie. “I’m surprised you haven’t asked to go there and see James.”

Mattie strode to her rocking chair and sat, surveying the street through the window. “I was hoping he’d come to me.”

Jimmy followed her. “Because he was the one who left?”

“My you are intuitive, aren’t you?” She glanced at him. “Or is mind reading one of your talents?”

“Intuition, I guess.” Jimmy ran a hand through his hair. “Uh, your husband wasn’t really my father.”

She peered at him, mind reeling. “So, he took your father’s place?”

“Yeah, I just found out about it last year.” He sat on the sofa. “All I knew was that my father went on a business trip. I was about thirteen. When he came back, he acted peculiar for a few months. Like he had amnesia or something.”

“But the amnesia went away?” She squinted. “How do you know your father didn’t come back?”

“My mother told me everything before she died.”

“I’m so sorry.” She thought to ask how his mother died, or how she felt about James, but didn’t want to pry.

“It’s okay.” He peered at her. “She’s not in pain any longer.”

Why did she read sympathy in his expression? Her eyes flew open at the sudden realization. “So, was your mother, me? Or the other me?”

Jimmy let out a long breath. “Yes.” He wandered toward the kitchen.

Mattie sucked in air, wondering if the other her was in heaven or not. And if she was, would there be room for Mattie? Suddenly everything she’d ever held as truth was in question. All because this boy was so believable. She shook her head. Maybe she was just being gullible. She’d help him get his task done, whatever that was, and then get back to normal. Christmas was in a few months and she’d see Wendy and Kris and their families then. She still had a lot to look forward to in this life.

Mattie stood, caught up to Jimmy, and turned him toward her. She meant to ask how she could help him complete his task, but surprised herself. “So how do you think James took your father’s place so easily?”

Jimmy scoffed. “It wasn’t easy.” He paced toward the window and back. “First he had to get Mom to accept him. Then she helped him learn much of what my father knew. I guess it helped that he had a similar personality to my dad. He studied directories and read books.” He stopped and pointed at her devotional on the end table. “He read the Bible in a month.”

“Why?” She stood, hands on hips. She could see James doing everything except the last bit.

“My father was a minister.”

Mattie doubled over before she allowed her laughter to become audible. She moved to the rocking chair and sat down before she fell.

“What’s so funny?” Jimmy knelt next to her chair.

“I couldn’t get him to go to church with me for anything.” She stopped short and looked at Jimmy. “I guess I don’t have to believe you to help. What do you need?”

“I’m telling the truth.” He furrowed his brow.

She peered at him with the stern expression leftover from her teaching days.  

He set his face to its mask and pointed to the sofa across the room from the window. “Can I just get a few hours of sleep? It’s been a while.”

“Certainly.” She turned toward the hallway. “But you don’t have to sleep on the couch. I have a guest room.” She ushered him to her spare bedroom and stood in the doorway, blocking him from entering. “You may sleep as long as you like, as soon as you tell me exactly what happened to make you leave wherever it is you came from.” She folded her arms over her chest. “And what happened to James when you left.”

Jimmy glared at Mattie for a second, then rubbed the back of his neck and sighed. “I haven’t seen James since early this morning.”

Mattie’s heart rate sped. Her mind might not believe Jimmy’s story, but her body seemed to. “Go on.”

“After my mother’s confession, I figured out that James wasn’t the only person who had traveled between the worlds.” He glanced at the ceiling. “I’d suspected my boss of doing something illegal but didn’t figure it out until I knew about the other, this world.”

“So, your boss found out that you knew and tried to stop you from telling anyone?”

Jimmy nodded but didn’t make eye contact.

Mattie narrowed her eyes. “Did he try to kill you?”

He slumped. “Yes, but he has no idea that James was from this world or knew anything about it.”

Mattie put a hand on her chest. “But James could be in danger.”

“Not if he’s careful and doesn’t let on that he knows.” He glanced over her shoulder.

“What is it you’re trying to do here?” Mattie stared at him.

“Cut off my boss’s supply.” He looked at her. “His business will fail and life in my…that world will go back to normal.”

She squinted. “Supply of what?”

He sighed. “Corn.”

“Corn?” She scrunched her face. “He’s smuggling corn? That’s the big illegal operation?” Mattie doubled over with laughter and ushered him into the room. “By all means, get some sleep.” She could hardly get the words out through her giggles. “You’ll need it if you’re going to rid the world of the infamous corn smuggler.”

Jimmy gave her the side eye as he passed her and fell onto the bed. He laid his head on the pillow and rolled over.

Mattie muttered to herself while ambling toward the kitchen. “Never heard anything so stupid in all my life. And I thought he was so believable. Ha! Corn smuggling.”

The apartment door slammed behind her. She assumed Jimmy wouldn’t wake up while she walked across the street to the market. And if he did, he probably wouldn’t leave. But why worry? If he did leave, her life would be a lot easier. Maybe she should ask him to go.

As she approached Sarah, the store manager, two men in brown jumpsuits pushed in front of her to get to the vegetable stands next to the front window.

“Is this all the corn you have?” The tall man glowered at Sarah.

“All the fresh corn. There’s canned inside the store.” Sarah shook her head as one of the men went inside and the other grabbed as many ears of corn as he could hold.

Mattie’s jaw dropped open.

“Weird, I can’t keep corn stocked.” Sarah smiled at Mattie. “Hello, Mrs. Hyatt. What can I help you with today?”

Mattie blinked. “I came for some produce.” She pointed at the small amount of corn left on the display. “I’ll take four ears of the corn, before those two young men get it all.”

Sarah pulled a plastic bag from behind the stand and stashed the corn in it.

“Tell me something.” Mattie leaned into Sarah. “Have those same guys been buying the corn or is it a lot of different people?”

Sarah handed the bag to Mattie, put her hand to her chin, and looked up. Then she shrugged. “I never paid much attention, but now that you mention it, I’ve seen a bunch of people wearing those dark jumpsuits. I think they’ve been buying the corn. Why do you ask?”

Now it was Mattie’s turn to feel flustered. “Oh, well. I’m not sure. I just noticed the jumpsuits and thought they looked out of place.”

“Yeah, like workers. But I didn’t recognize the logo on the front.”

“I guess it’s just an old woman’s curiosity. Not much else to do but people watch out my window. I must have missed those guys, though.” Mattie lingered looking at the rest of the produce. “Maybe I’ll take two of those tomatoes. Those look really good for this time of year.”

Sarah escorted Mattie inside to pay for her purchases just in time. When she turned to leave, she stared straight at the chest of the shorter of the two men in jumpsuits.

“Excuse me.” Mattie studied the strange logo on the front of the dark brown suit.

The guy pushed past her.

 Mattie waved to Sarah, hurried out the door, and racewalked back to her apartment. She entered, locked the door, set her bags down, and bee-lined to the desk between the kitchen and living room. She pulled out a sheet of paper and drew as much as she could remember of the logo. It was a hexagon, or a pentagon shape. No, it had seven sides. But inside the heptagon, was a seven-pointed star. Inside each of the shapes made from the intersection of the star and heptagon, was a different picture. She assumed they were symbols but she hadn’t recognized any of them, so she included as many of the lines and squiggles as she remembered.

“Oh, I wish I had the memory I used to.” Mattie muttered as she put down the pencil. She heard an exhale into her ear and startled. “Don’t do that!” She wheeled around and clasped her hand to her chest. “You’re supposed to be asleep.”

“I heard you come in.” Jimmy pointed to the logo. “Where did you see that?”

Mattie peered at him. “You know what this is, don’t you?”

“Tell me where you saw it.” Jimmy grabbed Mattie’s arm, then let go and stepped back. “I’m sorry. It’s just that…”

She stood and looked him in the eye. “Those are the guys who are after you, aren’t they?”

He shifted his weight and glanced at the ceiling. “They work for the same people.”

She huffed. “Who?”

“The company. My ex-boss was one of them. I don’t know the rest.” He touched her shoulder, lightly this time. “Where did you see that?” He pointed to Mattie’s drawing.

“At the market. Two men dressed in jumpsuits with that logo were buying corn.” She hurried to the window and looked in the direction of the market. Jimmy followed. “They must have already left.” She glanced up at Jimmy who scanned the street. “Why corn?”

“What?” Jimmy turned away from the window.

“Why smuggle corn?”

He smirked. “I thought you didn’t believe me.”

“I didn’t.” She threw up her arms. “But the grocer told me she’s having trouble keeping corn in stock. Couple that with the symbol you recognized, and I might be starting to believe you.” She cocked her head. “Why corn?”

“We don’t have it in our world.”

Mattie sat in her rocking chair. “That thought never entered my mind. Then I hadn’t tried to think what might be so valuable about it.” She squinted at Jimmy. “None?”

He shook his head.

“But, wait.” She leaned forward. “If people didn’t even know it existed, why is it so valuable?”

He glanced at her. “Uh, someone brought it to our world.” He cleared his throat.  “People liked it.” He shrugged. “We may not have corn, but we do have the law of supply and demand.”

She squinted at him. There was something he was leaving out. “So, these guys are smuggling corn and selling it for high prices. Why is it so important to stop them?”

“You wouldn’t understand.” He paced in front of the sofa. “I need to either find a way to close the portal, or keep them from buying corn.”

“Is that what you wanted to talk to the mayor about?” Mattie asked.

“What?” Jimmy turned back toward the window.

“You told me your errand was to talk to the mayor. Why didn’t you ask me to set up an appointment for you?” Mattie watched the contortions on Jimmy’s profile. It went from wide eyed surprise, to fear, to resignation.

He slumped. “I’m planning on seeing the mayor this evening. I don’t need an appointment.”

“Is the mayor involved in this?”

He squinted a bit.

“Or is the portal near city hall?”

His eyes opened wide.

She slid to the edge of her chair. “It is! Where exactly?”

“I can’t tell you.”

Her eyebrows rose. “Because James doesn’t want me going there?”

He turned toward her. “I promised him I wouldn’t let anyone else know. We don’t need people going back and forth.”

“That sounds like James.” Mattie sighed, memories flooding back. “He wanted to keep as much of his knowledge from everyone as he could.” Of course, he’d worked as a scientist in a secret facility so he couldn’t talk about his work much. And he had told her about his theories of a parallel universe. She hadn’t believed him. Why should she? She wasn’t sure she believed it now. Now. She had to stay in the present. Mattie peered at Jimmy. “So, what’s your plan?”

Jimmy set his jaw. “Let me stay here until dark, and you won’t have to worry about me any longer.”

“That’s not what I asked.” Mattie rose and poked Jimmy in the chest. She couldn’t quite look him eye to eye—more like eye to Adam’s apple—but she tried to give him the picture. She wasn’t going to back down. “So, you haven’t really got a plan.” She curled one hand into a fist. “Well, I do.” She pushed him toward the hallway with each poke. “You go back to sleep. You must have only gotten about two hours. When you get up, I’ll have food ready for you and then we’ll head to city hall.”

Jimmy backed down the hallway, eyes bugging out of his head.

Mattie hurried to the kitchen, poured milk in a mug, and zapped it in the microwave for about forty seconds. “Here.” She marched to the guest room, barged in, and handed him the mug. “Drink this, it’ll help you sleep.”

The warm milk did the trick, or maybe it was his general exhaustion. While Jimmy slept, Mattie sat in her rocking chair and tried to think. When thinking failed, she resorted to praying. Why did she always try to do things on her own first? She prayed for safety for both Jimmy and herself and for clarity and discernment. She still didn’t know everything that was going on, but God did.

Mattie remained in her chair. She’d given up praying on her knees only the year before, much later than her peers. She still didn’t have a plan, but she felt calmer than she had since Jimmy arrived. She also felt more alive than she had in months. God was going to use her to help Jimmy this evening. That was certain. How? She didn’t know—yet.

She peeked in on Jimmy before going to the kitchen to start dinner. He looked a bit like James had when he’d been younger. She sighed. Would she ever see James again? She thought she’d worked through her grief and here it was again.

Mattie breaded some chicken and put it in the oven. She had a good forty-five minutes before she needed to make the rest of the meal, so she sat in her rocker and watched the street. Pedestrian traffic was thicker, now. She recognized a few people from seeing them on their way to or from work nearly every day. Everything seemed normal, until the police car pulled up across the street.

She was used to seeing patrol cars, but normally they kept going. And never before had the cops gotten out, talked with two guys in dark jumpsuits, and pointed straight at her. “Okay, Lord,” Mattie whispered. “We really need a plan for tonight.”

The next instant, Sarah came out of her store and spoke to the officers. They argued with the guys in jumpsuits. Were they going to arrest them? Maybe, because the jumpsuits took off with the police after them.

Mattie hurried to the guest room. “Jimmy, we have to go now!” She shook him awake.

“What?” Jimmy sat up and rubbed his eyes. “I thought we were going to eat first.”

“No time. The police just chased off the guys who are after you.” She didn’t have a plan, only a conviction this was the next step. “This is our chance.”

Jimmy leaped off the bed, grabbed his jacket, and headed for the door. Mattie dashed to the kitchen, turned off the oven and grabbed a knife. “Hate to waste a good chicken,” she mumbled, but didn’t give it a second thought. She grabbed her coat and purse, tucked the knife in, and led Jimmy down the back stairs and into the alley.

“I thought they’d gone,” Jimmy said.

Mattie headed toward the street in front of the building. “Can’t be too careful. Didn’t want anyone to see us using the front door. I think we’ll be safer going toward where they came from.” When she got to the street, the police car was still parked across from her apartment. She glanced both ways and pulled Jimmy past the car but in the opposite direction than the cops had chased the jumpsuits.

As soon as they made it to the corner, Mattie turned onto an avenue to hail a cab. She prayed they’d get one soon. Jimmy pulled her into the first taxi that showed up. As Jimmy slammed the door shut, the guys in the jumpsuits sprinted past them with the cops gaining.

“City Hall,” Mattie said. She wanted to say step on it, but didn’t want to sound cliché. Besides, they didn’t need to hurry. Jimmy’s pursuers were tied up at the moment, or they would be soon.

“Wonder what that was all about,” Jimmy said.

Mattie shrugged. “Maybe they tried to steal the corn instead of buying it.”

“Were those the same guys you saw?” Jimmy glanced out the window.

“Yes.” Mattie sought eye contact with him. “But I still don’t get it. What’s so valuable, even if you don’t have it naturally?”

Jimmy grinned. “I’ll tell you later.”

Mattie would have threatened to get out of the car and leave him on his own unless he told her, but she was afraid he’d let her. This was the most excitement she’d had in years and she didn’t want to miss it. Instead of pouting, she needed to pray and listen for the next steps in the plan. Besides, maybe he didn’t want the cabbie to hear.

She checked her watch. Five-fifteen. They had a decent chance to catch the mayor without too many people around. Unless there was a city council meeting. She had no idea what night they were on or even if they were every week. Why wasn’t she a more involved citizen? It’s not like she didn’t have the time. Maybe she wasn’t the best person to be helping Jimmy in this situation, having never been to City Hall. First, she’d have to get the lay of the land. Find out where the mayor’s office was. Maybe she could get Jimmy to tell her how the mayor was involved and why Jimmy wanted to talk to him. She might have to eavesdrop once he got there. Whichever, she wasn’t going to let Jimmy go alone.

When the cab dropped them off, Mattie handed Jimmy money to pay the driver, while she scanned the area. Good thing she’d become more farsighted. She spotted a coffee shop down the street. “Jimmy, why don’t you go grab a coffee and wait for me. I’ll find the mayor’s office and see if I can get an appointment.”

“No, I’ll come with you.” Jimmy stepped toward City Hall.

“What if there are more guys in jumpsuits?” Mattie took his arm to keep him from walking away.

“What if they’re not wearing the jumpsuits?” He pulled his arm out of her grasp. “I know what they look like and you don’t.”

“Okay, fine.” Mattie gathered her wits. “You’re my grandson visiting from the country and I’m showing you the city. I even want you to meet the mayor.”

“Don’t go overboard.” Jimmy took Mattie’s arm and led her toward the building.

“Why not?” Mattie grinned. “Sometimes that’s the best cover.”

“Where did you learn that?”

“I don’t know. I’ve been around a while.” She winked. Probably saw it on television.

Mattie let go of Jimmy’s arm long enough to navigate the revolving door. She delighted in the puzzled look on his face when he made it through behind her.

“Never seen one of those before, have you Jimmy.” Mattie projected, remembering her days in community theatre. “That’s something you don’t have in the country. Isn’t the city grand.”

Jimmy looked appropriately embarrassed trying to shush her, which made Mattie talk louder.

She dragged Jimmy over to the directory and announced which floor the Mayor’s office was on, then led Jimmy to the elevator.

A uniformed security guard approached them. “Ma’am, you can’t just walk in on the mayor.”

Mattie batted her eyelashes. “Oh, I just want to show my grandson, here, how the city runs. I’m sure the mayor won’t mind.”

The guard raised an eyebrow. “Do you know the mayor personally?”

Mattie paused for a split second. “Yes. Why yes I do.” She personally knew that the mayor’s name was Dennis Marshal. Of course, most everyone in the city did, but that wasn’t the question. “I’m sure he’ll see us.” Mattie raised her chin to lock eyes with the guard.

“Let me call up to make sure.” The guard walked toward the phone on his desk.

Jimmy rushed to him. “That won’t be necessary. We don’t need to see him right now. Mat…My grandmother gets something in her head and…well, you know. We’ll just see ourselves out.” He took Mattie’s arm and ushered her outside.

“I heard that.” Mattie batted his arm. “You think because I’m old, my hearing is gone?”

Jimmy pulled her down the street out of view of the security guard.

Mattie snatched her arm away. “Why did you do that? I thought you wanted to talk to the mayor?”

“I don’t want anybody else to know I’m there.” Jimmy glanced around. “Anyway, we got the information we needed. We know what floor his office is on and that he’s still there.” Jimmy walked her toward the coffee shop. “Why don’t you go have something to eat, or go home? I’ll take it from here.” He patted her on the shoulder. “Thanks for all your help.”

Mattie stood in front of the coffee shop door, refusing to go in. “You don’t know if anyone else is with him, or where on the twelfth floor his office is. You still need my help.” She had to move to let a patron out so she pulled Jimmy back toward city hall.

“Look.” Jimmy placed his hands on her upper arms. “I’m thankful that you got me out of your place at the right time, but I can handle it from here.”

“No, you look.” Mattie pushed her index finger into his chest. “I’m going with you whether you like it or not.” She neglected to tell him that she still needed answers and that she wanted to find out more about James, if not find him. Why should she wait for James to come to her?

Jimmy strode down the street toward City Hall.

Mattie had to jog to keep up with him, but thanks to her aerobic classes at the senior center, she managed it. When he started climbing up the fire escape, she fumed. It was too high for her to reach and he didn’t offer to help.

She veered down the alley and found the back door and the service elevator. When she exited on the twelfth floor, to a deserted hallway, she located the mayor’s office. Then she waited a few yards from the window at the end of the hallway gazing out until Jimmy climbed in the window.

“How?” He gaped at her.

Mattie pointed to her temple. “Ever heard the one about old age and treachery?”

He shook his head, a blank expression on his face.

She grinned. “Just remember that experience and brain power can sometimes triumph over youth and brawn.”

Jimmy passed her and turned left at the first hallway intersection.

“Where’re you going?” She whispered.

He stopped and glanced over his shoulder. “Looking for the mayor’s office. Where do you think?”

“It’s down there.” Mattie pointed straight.

Jimmy hurried toward the mayor’s office with Mattie close behind. Instead of knocking, he went straight in and Mattie followed him.

She gasped. Two large men, one bald and one with shoulder-length stringy hair, dressed in business casual clothing, sat hunched over a receptionist desk, chowing down on corn. Husks littered the desk and floor. Mattie couldn’t see their features, but she didn’t think either of them was the mayor.

The inner office door opened and Mayor Dennis Marshal—Mattie recognized him from the papers—appeared in the doorway and gaped. He stood about six feet tall, and had a slim build. His close-cropped dark hair and black glasses, made him look a bit like Clark Kent.

Out of the corner of her eye Mattie watched Jimmy grab a couple of ears of corn. She glanced at the mayor. “What’s going on here?”

“He’s hoarding.” One of the eaters pointed at Clark Kent.

The mayor shook his head. “Someone sent it to me this morning. I thought it was odd, but I didn’t expect anyone to break in and hold me at gunpoint.”

Mattie’s breath caught. “Gunpoint?”

A pretty young blonde, wearing a short skirt and boots sauntered in from the inner office pushing the mayor farther into the room with a pistol. “He tried to keep it all for Fyfe and his cronies. We couldn’t let that happen. Hey! You!” She waved the gun at Jimmy. “I know you. You work for Fyfe.” She glared at Jimmy. “Did he send you to get his stuff back?”

“No, I’m here on my own.” Jimmy took a bite out of an ear of corn, cob and all.

The girl fired. 

Mattie flinched. 

Jimmy caught the bullet like it was a baseball. 

Blondie sputtered, jaw clenched. “It doesn’t work that fast!” 

“Had some earlier at her house.” Jimmy jerked his head toward Mattie.

Mattie’s eyes widened. Now she knew why corn was so valuable. Too bad it wouldn’t do that for her. She recognized the same realization on the mayor’s face. Otherwise, she might have thought he was one of them.

“So now what?” Mattie stepped toward Jimmy. “I thought you wanted to stop the import of corn to your world. Instead, you want to control it. Is that it?”

“I don’t want my employer keeping it all for his thugs.” Jimmy handed Mattie the bullet. His hand was red from the impact, but it was as if he’d only pressed the bullet into his palm. 

“Does it work for everyone?” Mattie pocketed the bullet.

“In varying degrees.” Blondie strode toward her. “It improves coordination and strength.” She assessed Jimmy. “You must be in pretty good shape to begin with.”

Jimmy lifted his chin. “I work out.”

“James?” Mattie peered at Jimmy. “Does he use it?”

“It doesn’t work for him.” Jimmy’s brow furrowed. “It only seems to work for people born in my world.”

Mattie glanced at the mayor who inched toward his office with a panicked expression on his face.

The girl followed her gaze, then leaped across the room and grabbed the mayor by the arm. She pulled him back into the outer office.

Mattie thought out loud. “Why involve the mayor in this?” 

“That’s a good question.” Jimmy stepped toward her. “I wouldn’t have.” He turned toward the girl who still held the gun. “Would you?” 

“No. It was foolish.” Blondie waved an arm toward the bushels on the table next to the desk. “But Mr. Fyfe had his goons bring it here.”

“It’s a trap.” Mattie felt certain. Was it instinct or that still small voice? “We need to leave right now.”

“Wait.” Jimmy leaned close to Mattie. “How do you know?”

“How did you know the corn would be here?” Mattie whispered.

“I overheard Fyfe telling his guys to deliver it to Mr. Marshal at this address. Then I looked him up.”

“Fool!” The girl strode toward him, her black boots clacking on the hard-wood floor. “He wanted you to hear that.”

Jimmy faced her. “Then how did you know where to find it?” 

“I delivered it.” The man with shoulder-length hair licked his chubby fingers, then stood and sauntered toward Jimmy. “I called these two and told them where it was.” He pointed first to Blondie then to his bald friend who was still eating.

Jimmy nodded toward Blondie. “What makes you think he’s not still working for Fyfe?” 

“Noreen, here is my girl.” Fat fingers draped a muscled arm around her. 

“Yeah, I know Frankie wouldn’t let me down, would you, sweets?” Noreen laid her palm on his chest. 

“So why didn’t you just take the corn and leave?” Jimmy stepped toward her.

Mattie was curious, but several footfalls in the hallway caught her attention. She slipped past Noreen and Frankie toward Mayor Marshall. “Is there another way out?”

Marshall pointed to his office. “There’s a fire escape out my office window.” 

“We don’t need no fire escape.” Frankie puffed out his chest.

His bald friend stood and brushed off his pants. He nodded to Frankie and faced the door.

Mattie pushed the mayor into his office and closed the door. As the receptionist’s office door slammed open, Mattie peered through the tiny window in the mayor’s door.

Marshall crowded her. “If I wasn’t seeing it, I wouldn’t believe it.” 

Mattie had a hard time believing it, anyway. Four large jump-suited men fought against the two corn eaters and appeared to be losing. She couldn’t see Noreen or Jimmy within the mayhem. Two jumpsuits hurled Frankie across the room. Frankie bounced off the opposite wall and kicked them both in the head. Baldy flipped one of the jumpsuits to the ground and elbow punched another. 

Noreen and Jimmy slid toward the hallway door, but a jumpsuit stood in the doorway and threw Jimmy. He landed on his side, but instead of getting up, he rolled into two of Fyfe’s men and knocked them over as if they were bowling pins. Keeping track of the action was exhausting. Who should she root for? Were there good guys here? 

As the fight continued, knives bounced off skin, and bullets were caught. Mattie didn’t think it would ever end. 

A tall, broad-shouldered man appeared in the hall doorway. “I let you have too much time with our goods.” His voice boomed causing all action to stop. “We can’t just tear up my friend’s office.” He raised his arms to shoulder level. “We’ll need to come to an agreement.”

Mattie looked at the mayor for explanation. 

Marshal stepped back, eyes wide. “That’s Andy Fyfe, my best friend.” 

Mattie exhaled. “That’s why they used this place. I’m sure he had no problem getting past the guards.”

Marshal plopped onto his desk. “What is going on?”

“I’ll tell you later.” Mattie peeped through the little window and mumbled under her breath. “When I figure it out.”

A thunder of footsteps sounded in the corridor. Mattie winced. Several uniformed men rushed into the receptionist’s office, with more crowding the door from the hallway. The man in front held up his hand. “Stop! Police!”  

A jumpsuit laughed and rushed the cops but landed on his backside. The other three jumpsuits tried to push their way through the cops but the police outnumbered them. Two on one, they pushed them against the wall and handcuffed them. 

Frankie, Noreen, and Baldy, ran straight toward Mattie. She tried to catch a glimpse of Jimmy, but Mayor Marshal pulled her across the office toward the window.

As Noreen and her men crashed into the office, Mattie and the mayor crawled out the window and onto the fire escape. To her surprise, it served several windows on this floor. She headed down the steel mesh catwalk.

From behind her, Mayor Marshal gasped.

Mattie wheeled around. 

Fyfe stepped onto the catwalk and rushed toward the mayor. “Dennis. I could use your help.”

Dennis furrowed his brow. “Andy, what’s going on?”

Andy put a hand on Dennis’s arm. “I’ll tell you later. You need to hide me.”

Dennis gaped at his friend. “Do I even know you?”

Andy smiled. “Ha ha. Of course, you do. We go way back. College days.”

“Yes, but why deliver bushels of corn to my office? And does it really give these guys super strength?” He waved his hand. “What was all that about?”

Andy pulled Dennis down the catwalk, but Dennis shook him off. 

Mattie acted on a hunch. “Mayor. Call your friend Andy.”

Dennis flashed her a look that said he was hearing Twilight Zone music. “He’s standing right here.”

“Humor me.” She stepped toward him.

He rolled his eyes, but pulled his phone out of his pants pocket and made a call. Silence. 

Fyfe held his hands up. “Forgot my phone.”

Marshal reached over and pulled it out of his inside jacket pocket. “What’s this then?” He handed his own phone to Mattie and ran his finger over the screen of Fyfe’s cell. “What’s your pin.”

Fyfe swiped his phone away. “Give me that.”

“Hello.” A voice came from Dennis’s phone. “Dennis?”

Dennis took it from Mattie and held it to his ear. “Andy?”

Fyfe pushed Mattie and ran toward the next window.

Mattie hit the railing, thankful it was there, and jogged after Fyfe. She peered into a storage room in time to see a cop push Fyfe to the floor and handcuff him. Either Fyfe hadn’t eaten the corn, or he’d been taken by surprise. Of course, the cop could have used the corn. She exhaled and stepped toward the mayor. “They got him.”

He slumped against the railing, holding his phone out. “Who was that?”

“Maybe we should go back in and sit down.” Mattie ushered him toward his office window. She waited as he climbed inside, then followed. She pulled his chair away from the desk. “Here. Have a seat.”

The mayor plopped into his chair, a blank look on his face. He touched his phone screen and held it out. “Andy, you still there?”

“Yeah.” Andy’s voice came through the speaker. “What’s happening?”

“Where are you? You haven’t been arrested, have you?”

“Why would I be arrested? I’m at dinner. Remember? You were supposed to meet me.”

Marshal closed his eyes and exhaled. Then he checked his watch. “So sorry. I’ll be there in ten.”

“Good. I’m anxious to hear what’s going on.”

“Me too.” He ended the call and pocketed his phone. 

Mattie wandered toward the desk. “I’m not sure I can explain it.”

Marshal held his arm out toward the visitor’s chair. “Please try.”

She sat and cleared her throat. “Um, the man here, Fyfe, is really Andy Fyfe. He’s from a different world, though.”

Marshal snorted, then broke into a guffaw. “Funny. Now tell me what really happened? Who is that guy?”

She pursed her lips and arrowed up a prayer for the right words. She didn’t like to lie. “He pretended to be your friend so he could have a black-market product stored here.”

He narrowed his eyes. “Corn?” 

She swallowed hard. “Uh. Special corn. Enhanced.”

“I’d say! If it allowed those guys to do. . .” He flapped his hand toward the receptionist’s office. “What they did.”

She nodded. “Yes. It’s why it’s valuable.”

Mayor Marshal pushed back his chair and stood. “I’m glad the police sorted it out. Thanks for the information.” He walked around the desk and extended his hand. “Are you affiliated with law enforcement?”

She stood and shook hands with him. “No. But my nephew is.” She didn’t know when she’d started thinking of Jimmy that way, but it felt right. She bobbed her head toward the door. “Shouldn’t you go meet your friend?”

“Yes.” He ushered her toward the receptionist’s office. “I’ll need to lock up.”

“Oh, of course.” She walked through the receptionist’s office, noting all the corn evidence was gone. She hurried out the door, her only thought to find Jimmy. The hallway was deserted. Instead of heading to the elevator, she strode the opposite direction to the window at the end of the corridor and peered out. No police cars were anywhere in sight, and she hadn’t heard sirens. Everything, save normal traffic and city noises, was quiet. Did they use the portal? Would she ever see Jimmy again? What about James?

A hand touched her shoulder.

She jumped and whirled around, her hand ready to strike. Then she stopped and gaped.

Jimmy smirked.

“What’s going on?” Mattie planted her feet, hands on hips. 

“The police got here. My part’s done.” He held out his elbow. “Come on.”

She peered at him. “How did you keep from being arrested?” 

“They were our police.” 

She scoffed. “I knew that.”

Jimmy glanced around. “Let’s go to that coffee shop. I’ll explain when we get there.”

She let him lead her out of the building and down the street to a large coffee shop where they claimed a table in the back corner. She ordered decaf and a sandwich, briefly lamenting the chicken going bad in her turned-off oven.

He sat in the booth opposite her, setting the tray with both their meals and coffee on the table.

She pulled her plate toward her. “So, police from your world? Are they taking Fyfe and his thugs back?”

He nodded. “Already did.” 

“So, your police use the corn.” They had to or they wouldn’t have been able to stop Fyfe and his men. 

“Our mayor fed them corn without their knowledge. That way, they could do their job and hopefully not know exactly what gave them the extra strength.” He took a bite of his sandwich.

She sipped her coffee, her thoughts clarifying. She plunked her mug on the table. “You knew it was a trap, didn’t you?”

He swallowed. “That’s why I didn’t want you to come.” 

She squinted at him. “You were in cahoots with the police?”

“No. James sent them.” He leaned back. 

She cocked her head. “How did you escape arrest then?”

He grinned and pulled out a business card with James’ picture. “He wrote a note to them.” He turned it over, showing her James’ handwriting, saying Jimmy was working for him.

She chewed her lip. “And Noreen and Frankie?”

Jimmy pushed the card toward her. “They are part of a rebel faction. I knew they were after Fyfe’s stash, too.”

She peered up at him while picking up James’ card. “So, you timed it to get them caught as well?” 

Jimmy nodded. “That’s why I had to hide out. Fyfe’s guys followed me through the portal.” He waved his hand. “At least, that’s what I thought at the time. They might have just been coming to buy corn.”

She slipped the card into her purse. “What, now?”

“I was hoping I could stay with you for a while.” Jimmy showed her a sheepish grin. “Til I get a job and get settled.”

She gasped. “You can’t go back!”

He shook his head. “Someone had to close the portal from this side.” He sighed. “It’s the price I had to pay.”

She narrowed her eyes. “Who is your mayor? The one who set all this up.”

“We came up with the plan together.” Jimmy set his jaw. “I was the one who insisted he run for mayor so we could get rid of the corn.”

She knew it, but wasn’t sure when she’d figured it out. “It’s James, isn’t it?”

“Yeah.” He peered at her. “He’s a good man. Wish I could take you to see him. He did send this.” Jimmy dug a letter out of his jacket pocket and handed it to Mattie.

Mattie looked at her name written in James’ handwriting. Her hands quivered as she unfolded the paper. 

Dearest Mattie,

I am so sorry for what I’ve put you through. I’ve learned the hard way that some theories are better left unproven. In creating the portal to this parallel dimension, I wreaked havoc. The James Hyatt in this universe died, and in penance, I took his place. Now I’m needed not only by his family, but his city. I’ve grown to love James Jr. as I know you will, too. Give my love to Wendy, Kris, and all our grandchildren. I miss all of you so much, but I must stay here.

Love,

James.

PS. Don’t hesitate to call on officer Brown if you need him. He was a close friend. After James Jr. left, I thought to send a messenger to tip off Brown and introduce you two.

She wiped a tear from her eye and smiled as she folded the letter. He loved her. He’d given her his adopted son. It would have to be enough.