….written and illustrated by Tracy
A STRANGE ENCOUNTER
Reed walks his dog Cami around Enka Lake almost every day. The two-mile loop offers such beauty and variety – bridges & trails through woods & wetlands, teeming with wildlife, as well as lovely homes and common grounds of his Biltmore Lake community – all surrounded by stunning mountain views. Reed never tires of the trail, as it offers something new & different each visit.
One morning late summer was particularly memorable. Temps had dropped significantly overnight with a front blowing through, and a crisp feeling of fall was in the air. Reed and Cami crossed the last footbridge before home, where sounds of frolicking from the swim beach, boat house and tennis courts faded. At the end of the bridge, Cami suddenly stopped and stared straight ahead with her hackles up, emitting a low growl. This was unusual tor the happy-go-lucky pup, who typically charged ahead undaunted by all she encountered. With a few words of encouragement from Reed and slight tug at her leash, Cami reluctantly continued.
Rounding the corner, Reed saw someone standing ahead on the trail. Man or woman? He couldn’t tell at first, as the figure was shrouded by mist – puzzling on such a crisp clear morning.
Reed saw that it was a young woman clad head to toe in bright white and carrying a little bouquet of wildflowers.
She meekly spoke. . .”Young man, I’m Miss Tillie Rose. I’m looking for my sweetheart. Can you help me find him? Please – I’m all alone and need to find my beloved.”
1.