Tuesday Tales: From the Word QUICK

Welcome back! This week, Tuesday Tales’ word prompt is QUICK. As always, I’m continuing with Listen to the Stones. Do you like people who try to force their opinions on you? I prefer to make my own decisions.

“I don’t want to upset you, but my colleague warned me that some of the more superstitious people on the island are talking. We both saw the way some of them looked at you at the castle, and those facts, along with the threats you’ve received, concern me,” James stated. “You could well be in danger and not just from Jerome Morrison and his schemes. You need to keep a level head on your shoulders and remember who you are, a Canadian woman, an heiress of incomparable beauty who’s come back to the land of her birth. You are not some magical sea creature, certainly not the answer to some ancient prophecy, nor the long-awaited messiah destined to save us all. Times have been as tough here as they have been elsewhere. The weather’s changing, the economy took a hit, and crime is on the rise. It’s just as well you didn’t come during the pandemic. People are quick to change sides when things don’t go their way. They could well have stoned you for failing to save the island from the virus.” He laughed. “Don’t let this nonsense go to your head. It won’t be long before some will expect you to step into Bronagh’s shoes and demand you grant their every wish and bless their babies, too. It’s ridiculous, and we both know it. It’s better to disabuse them of that nonsense and set them straight right away. The only magic concoctions you’ll be brewing will be the food you’ll serve your guests at breakfast. While I’ve no doubt it will be delicious, I can guarantee the dishes will have no supernatural qualities.”

Marina frowned. For someone who didn’t like the idea of people foisting their beliefs on him, he was doing a hell of a job of imposing his on her. While they certainly seemed logical on the surface, that nagging feeling that there was more to what he was saying ate at her once more.

“I’ve never considered myself special in any way, and as for powers, magic or otherwise, certainly not something originating in the sea. If I did have some abilities, I wouldn’t even know how to use them. I don’t want anyone seeing me as some kind of savior. I can barely look after myself. I’m here to manage Fraser Hall and the estate I inherited, nothing more. I’ll do whatever I can for the island and its people, but as you’ve so clearly said, I’m nothing special.”

That’s it. Come back next week for more. Don’t forget to check out the other Tuesday Tales.