Fortune Teller

Elise does not believe in her mother’s voodoo. But the people of Ellsworth adore the apothecary and that’s precisely where we find ourselves on this chilly, October morning, closer to Halloween than Labor Day. Mother and daughter prepare for the shop to open for the first customer who is already waiting outside in the drizzle. The pair work hand in hand, sorting herbs and arranging crystals. The store is a throw back to an earlier time. But which earlier time is the question. It’s hard to say. Mid-century lamps create bookends for a plush, Victorian sofa. The 70s are summoned by the macrame wall hanging and a delicate hurricane lamp gives a nod to the 19th century. All in all, it’s a cozy atmosphere. The sitting area only takes up a quarter of the store. The rest of the store is occupied by a small cafe, an enchanting enclave, and the main counter that holds the treasures.

The population of Ellsworth peaked in 1910 and has never fully recovered. On the outskirts of the third largest city in the state, Ellsworth never did have much of a chance. The people of Ellsworth are a loyal, curious, and superstitious bunch. This creates the perfect petri dish for tarot, tea leaves, and seances to flourish.

Elise is employed at the apothecary as a fortune teller. Privately, she considers herself a charlatan. Elise doesn’t see visions or sense spirits. When she began working with clients, she was astounded at how simple it was to say a statement with authority and watch as someone accepts it as fact…hook, line, and sinker. With every client, for almost a decade, Elise had sharpened and honed her skills. Elise is articulate but always vague. Her visions are clear yet foggy. It’s just enough to keep a client coming back for more. If someone could turn on a light in the darkness of Elise’s mind, this is what they would see: When she steps back, and truly views herself objectively, she is scared. The fear comes from the reality that she has lied so much to herself that she no longer recognizes the truth.

This can’t continue forever. Or can it? Are people really this stupid? Someone is going to catch on. Then it’ll all be over.

The pressure is immense but the pressure is self-inflicted. Elise and her mother have always been two peas in a pod. Although Elise received ample praise for stellar grades and spectacular musical skills, where her mother really praised, was her gift of sight. That’s what her mother called it. It began when Elise was seventeen. Elise thought it was crystal clear that she was acting, that it was all a joke as she attempted to read the energy in the room. Her mother didn’t. The praise given to her was unparalleled. Suddenly, the two were bound by a bond that was more than natural, more than just a mother and daughter. They were bound by a common interest. Or so her mother believed.

Elise’s thoughts were interrupted by the opening of the store. A few women began to browse the different items. Elise could hear their hushed chatter. They did not believe in “dark magic” but the candles smelled so good! She watched as they each purchased candles. One buying vanilla patchouli and the other mint garden. Maybe in a different life, Elise would be insulted that they spoke as if they were superior to her and her mother. But, sadly, she agreed with them.

Anna had been a client of Elise’s for almost a year. Every week she would arrive in time to get a coffee and a cozy spot. Elise was so immersed in her thoughts that when she felt a light tap on her shoulder, she jumped. It was Anna. How had she missed her entrance? Was she here early? She was relieved when Anna explained she was just wandering the store before their session started.

The session was a disaster. Elise’s mind was a blank page.

This is embarrassing, usually I fake it better. Think! Think!

Anna was her usual self, engaged and enthusiastic in the session.

Can she tell that I have no idea what I’m doing? She usually likes predictions on romance. I’ll try that.

The only thing she could muster was a generic line about Anna soon finding love. If Anna sensed that something was off, she certainly didn’t let on. After 30 minutes of rambling, Elise asked Anna when she’d like to see her again. Anna hesitated then said she’d have to check her schedule. She’d call to make an appointment.

This was a first. I wonder what’s going on, she’s always made an appointment for the following week. Just keep it together until she leaves. It’ll be fine. Things will be fine.

Crushed, Elise returned to sofa after Anna left. Elise leaned back, allowing the plush pillows to envelop her as if she was sitting on a cloud. The rain began to come down harder.

Anna always made a follow up appointment. Not today. Maybe not anymore. I knew it. The gig is up. She’s figured out that I’m a complete fake. This is horrible. I’ve been giving her advice that she’s taken to heart and now she’s realized that I’m a complete fraud. What if I’ve ruined her life?

Elise watched as the schoolchildren splashed in puddles in their boots and fumbled with their umbrellas. Elise turned her attention to the store. A lady was browsing the small library. Her mother is crafting an herb bouquet to be used for a spell as a customer sips tea while observing.

Elise’s paranoia began to grow. She racked her brain thinking of advice that she had given to Anna over the past year. Most of it had involved relationships.

Did my lies lead Anna down the wrong path? None of her problems seemed that serious. Of course, how well do I really know her? Racing thoughts engulfed Elise’s guilty mind. I never took the time to really know much about her other than the very limited information she shared.

Regret slowly filled her mind.

She’ll be back. Things will be ok.

Elise wasn’t sure that she believed herself.

***

Anna waited outside the store. She peeked in and noticed Elise and her mother preparing for the day. Checking her watch, she noticed there was still another five minutes before opening. A soft drizzle fell on her umbrella. It didn’t bother Anna. A few moments away from the chaos of her home was worth any kind of weather she had to tolerate. Anna loved her family but sometimes she just needed a break.

The store was so cozy and inviting. Anna had discovered the apothecary a year ago and had made it a sacred, weekly ritual. Something she did for herself, and only herself.

They’re open! I’ve missed this place. Or maybe I’ve just missed having a few moments to myself.

Anna spotted Elise. Anna could never admit that she did not believe a single thing that Elise told her. Anna would have felt guilty except that she knew, for a fact, that Elise was lying as well. Anna had never told Elise the truth. She had created a complete separate reality that did not exist. The truth, if there was any left, was that Anna enjoyed her quiet moments alone in the shop. It was her chance to completely dissociate from reality.

I don’t think she’s seen me. I’ve got a few minutes to browse.

The apothecary holds a certain charm. The ambiance is that of an ancient library with sacred wisdom that’s cocooned by the softness that is patchouli and rose. Anna meandered to the counter. Under the glass were various herbal arrangements, teas, and vintage handkerchiefs. Beautifully crocheted lace doilies lined the interior of the display. At the end of the counter, a display of necklaces beckoned Anna. Long and short necklaces of all different materials, from glass to wood, graced the carousel from which they dangled.

There she is!

Anna tapped Elise on the shoulder. Elise jumped.

I didn’t realize she was so jumpy!

“I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to startle you!”

“No worries! I’m easily spooked. Let’s get started!”

What’s that look? Does she know that I’m not telling her the truth? Look interested. Pay attention!

The session continued with Anna attempting to look intrigued while her thoughts wandered. Another question, another answer. Elise looks thoughtful then speaks. So on and so forth.

Did I tell her that I have a niece and nephew? She keeps mentioning them but I don’t remember telling her that. I can’t correct her now, she obviously thinks they exist. What a mess. Did I tell her I had a brother or a sister? I should have kept notes.

As quickly as the session started, it ends. Elise is tentatively planning the next session when it suddenly dawns on Anna that she’s double booked herself for next week.

I can’t believe I would do that. This is the one time of the week I have to myself. I can’t believe I messed it up.

She quickly explains to Anna that she’ll have to call her later in the week to make an appointment.

Is she upset? Ugh. I hope I didn’t upset her. There’s nothing I can do about it. Should I tell her the reason why I won’t be here? I barely know her.

Anna leaves the store. Taking a deep breath, she steps back into reality.