Semi-Daily Scribbles

“Oh. That sounds…nice.” Zoë looked down at the envelope and turned it over. She studied the seal on the flap. It was gold colored with crisscrossing vines forming a heart shape. She had seen it before, but time was unreliable on this Wednesday morning. As she stood in the warm patch of January sun, on a cracked sidewalk along a deserted street, Zoë stared at the design with unabashed intensity. She sensed Diana was watching her with amusement, but Zoë stood still as she let the hazy image fill her mind. Street lamps and cobblestone flashed before her, and a multi-story brick building came into focus. Pools of soft golden light spilled from shadowy windowpanes. An elaborate carving of winding ivy adorned large wooden doors better suited for a medieval fortress. The foliage swayed to and fro before joining to make a heart that fluttered in the evening breeze. Zoë’s unexpected vision was melancholy and beautiful, and it sent a shiver down her spine. Diana finally spoke, breaking the spell.

“That’s the logo for our art studio,” she said, tilting her head toward the envelope. “Benny and I live there, too. It’s where we’re having the party. I do hope you’ll come.” The voluptuous redhead, with her square jaw and delicate hands, turned to leave. She looked back over her shoulder at Zoë, who was clutching the invitation to her breast. Diana smiled, happy in the knowledge that the message had been received. “Oh, and one more thing. When people tell you to leave the past behind, don’t believe it for a second. You may accept their words with kindness, but don't follow their advice.”