Surprising Chapter

1. Arrival in Ajijic

An explosion of noise startled Claire from sleep.

She bolted upright in bed as fireworks outside her rented casita broke the morning’s birdsong.

Claire fought to unwrap herself from the tangled sheets. Frustrated, she rolled over and fumbled toward her glasses.

More fireworks went off, causing her to jump.

Her glasses dropped on the floor. Claire squinted toward the clock on the bedside table. Seven in the morning.

Taking in a deep breath, she laid back on the fluffy pillow. More used to a firmer one, she’d need to buy a different one while she stayed in Ajijic.

She listened to the fireworks for a bit and then turned on her side, braced for another assault on her senses.

When was the last time she’d slept until seven? Yes, she’d arrived late yesterday, but most mornings she rose around five, if she got lucky, maybe six.

Years of preparing for her students had made her an early riser. It allowed her to get a head-start on the day and grade in the morning versus in the evenings.

Plus, over the years, she’d become a creature of habit in how she started her day.

She let out an enormous yawn and stretched her arms into the air. She cocked her head as she listened.

Quiet.

Maybe the fireworks were done. She swung her feet over the bed onto the terracotta tiles, setting her feet down gingerly so she wouldn’t step on her glasses. The coolness under her feet was pleasant and helped to remove any remaining cobwebs. She twisted her shoulders to remove any leftover kinks from her travels the day before.

After bending down to grab her glasses, she set them on the bedside table. Rising from the bed, Claire flexed some more before striding to the bathroom. Like the rest of the casita, it had been decorated with bright, multi-color tile work. Reds, oranges, yellows, and blues tiles greeted her, filling her with happiness at the cheerful display of colors, floral designs, and patterns.

Claire’s long silver hair had come loose from its braid and several strands stuck out from her head. She ran her hand over it to smooth them back. After she took care of her morning ablutions, she made her way into the bedroom.

Her large suitcase lay open on a nearby table, garments jumbled from last night where she’d pulled out her nightclothes. From its depths, she pulled out a yoga mat she’d brought along.

Even as an older woman, her body and flexibility were that of a much younger woman. She’d taken up yoga years ago when the university had added wellness programs. Yoga had stuck. Its daily practice allowed her to continue her life the way she wanted. Once she’d heard the phrase that you’re only as young as your spine, she had been happy she’d begun the practice.

Already dressed in leggings and the tank top she’d slept in, she took a sip of cold water she’d set out the night before.

Ouch!

Big mistake. Her tooth throbbed. Claire rubbed along her jawline. That one tooth had become more sensitive. She’d be glad to get her tooth issue resolved in the next few days. This had been one reason she’d traveled to Mexico.

One lady in her new book club had suggested she check out the dental services there. At first, she’d been doubtful, but being able to get the work done and save some money had piqued her interest.

Betsy, like the other book club ladies, had become a friend. In addition, Betsy also traveled quite a bit as a house and pet sitter. She’d already helped another group member, Laura, to explore England. When she noted that she could probably find her a place to stay, Claire said no thanks.

But Claire finally decided to look into it. She’d done the research she always did when posed with a problem or question. After she looked into the cost in the States versus the cost in Mexico, she was shocked. Even with travel to get the same procedures done, she’d be ahead financially. Plus, now that she’d retired, it became a simple decision. She could get the work done and enjoy a warm winter vacation. So she’d decided to head there during the colder winter months when Colorado’s winds and snow penetrated her bones.

But the idea had met with issues. Of course, all the snowbirds from the States and Canada also headed south for the winter. Thus, finding a place to stay turned out to be more difficult than imagined.

Finally, Betsy had found someone who would rent out their casita to Claire. But it came with a caveat. The landlord had just opened the casita to rent and would only do a month-long rental.

Claire hesitated but finally took the plunge, deciding to take advantage of not only the dental services but some pampering and time in the sun as well.

The casita had a private entrance and a beautiful, quiet garden. She’d seen pictures, and it looked to be a perfect place with a nice chaise she envisioned using for reading.

While the casita didn’t have a full kitchen, a small alcove held a sink, hotplate, and an under-counter fridge. A microwave had been positioned on an upper shelf and a coffeepot sat on the counter for use. She would have everything she needed. Especially as Betsy told her she’d be spoiled for good food choices there.

After finalizing the arrangements and leaving her condo behind, Claire had flown to Mexico. The time away would also give her time to think about what she wanted to do next. Retirement had crept up on her, and she felt rudderless without having something to do each day. She wasn’t one of those people who could sit around and not do something purposeful. She needed an outlet.

Even though she’d retired from teaching English, she often took on editing jobs for former students who were growing in their lives as authors. She’d enjoyed taking that on but wanted to ensure her direction. Maybe the time away would give her some new insights on how to move forward.

Claire looked around the space. It would be good to have new things around her while she figured out what she wanted to do with this next season of her life.

Claire spoke aloud to herself. “New chapter, new plot. If only I knew where to begin or what to write.”

She moved to her yoga mat, positioning herself to move into her daily routine. Claire raised her hands over her head in a sun salutation pose before bending into a downward-facing dog. As she worked through her morning routine, her body loosened after her flight yesterday.

She finished her stretching, rolling up the yoga mat before placing it against the wall. In the kitchen area, she found a small bag of ground coffee, a container of cream, and a few muffins that had been acquired for her arrival. She inhaled a deep whiff of the rich, earthy coffee.

After starting the coffee, she pulled a clean outfit from her bag. Claire took it into the bathroom before putting the rest of her clothing in the closet.

The coffee’s aroma had her taking another deep, cleansing breath. She poured some coffee and heated one muffin. Clearing the table, she sat with her feet up on the other chair. Her mind emptied as she enjoyed the simplicity and being in the moment. Before she knew it, she gazed at crumbs and the dregs left in her cup.

Finished with her coffee and meal, she cleaned up, putting everything back in place. Now to grab a shower so she could go out and explore. She stopped.

Why the rush?

She’d be here a month, so she had plenty of time to explore the town. Pulling the painted mug from the strainer, she poured herself another cup of the fragrant brew. If anything, maybe she’d learned to slow down and appreciate each moment more while she was there.

After she’d enjoyed her time with her coffee, she decided to go out. Dressing in a long, flowing off-white dress and two-tone sandals. She moved her wallet and other necessities to a smaller over-shoulder bag. Setting it down on the table, she decided to see the garden first. She grabbed her coffee cup, adding some more to heat the tepid brew.

As she opened the door, the warmth of the morning had already penetrated the garden wall. She walked outdoors to the garden, marveling at the enormous floral vine along the tall, white-plastered wall. Instead of confining, it supplied a wonderful sense of security, like a warm hug or a soft, warm embrace.

She stopped as a noise came to her.

Whistling.

She turned toward the sound, grinning at the melody’s off-tune charm.

Possibly the landlord?

Claire rushed past a small table, almost spilling the coffee in her cup over its rim. By the time she made it over to the adjoining garden, the front gate was closed.

Oh, well. I can meet them later.

Happy the coffee hadn’t stained her dress, she kept it carefully in hand while returning to the casita. As she rinsed out the mug, she thought about where she wanted to go. The first stop would be the Chapala Society. She’d found that they had a library there and also supplied buses for going to the larger stores in the area.

Claire grabbed a large sunhat and her purse.

A smile crossed her face as she exited the garden onto a cobblestone street.

A man with weathered skin tipped his hat at her as he rode by on his horse. “Buenos Dias, Senora.”

That’s a sight I don’t see every day. She smiled at him. “Buenos Dias, Senor.”

He tipped his hat as he rode by, and she watched as the horse plodded down the street.

A strange warmth came over her as she stood on the sidewalk. Her brow crinkled at her response. Joy.

Happiness.

Elusive emotions that snuck up on you when you weren’t looking for them. Suddenly, you just knew you were content. Happy. That is the emotion that flooded her now. She basked in it.

Deciding to come here looks to have been a wonderful decision.

She marveled at the peace she felt inside.

Turning towards the town, Claire recalled the map’s directions. She’d checked the computer maps earlier to know how long it would take to walk to the Society. Happily, the route wasn’t far from the casita. She strolled along, saying good morning, avoiding cracks in the sidewalk, slowing her normal quick pace to fit that of the town. No need to rush to make a class or a lecture. She also shortened her usual long stride as she kept her eyes on the uneven ground.

As she made her way down the main street of Colon, the sunshine flickering against the lake caught her attention. She understood why this place beckoned so many expats with its quaint, quiet charm. She knew she had to turn down Septiembre but had become distracted by the lake. She turned around when she realized she’d missed the street. Claire made her way back up the street and headed right. Soon, she found herself at the entrance to the Lake Chapala Society gate.

This is it.

She hesitated.

As if by walking through the gate, everything would change. Forever.

She shook her head at her odd feeling. Was it a strange response to jetlag? No, that couldn’t be it. The flight wasn’t that long. So no jetlag, though travel always seemed to take it out of her. She pushed her shoulders back at this strange mood.

The gate only served as an entrance, not a threshold to another world. Still, her heart pounded at some unknown warning.

What’s the matter with you?

A couple of women walked past, smiling at her as she stood there.

On the cusp.

The words came to her.

On the cusp of what?

Claire chuckled at her silliness. Good grief. What’s gotten into me?

She took a step forward.

After she’d wandered around the interior gardens and spoken to some members, she made her way to the library. It was a small facility but had what appeared to be a wonderful selection of books on offer.

Claire reached up and pulled a book from the top shelf, but its bulk caught her off-balance. She teetered for a moment at its heft. Stepping back to prevent herself from falling backward, she collided with a firm, muscular body behind her. A loud stream of curses followed.

“Lady, watch where you’re stepping! I’d like to keep my toes if you don’t mind.”

Claire stepped forward, swiveling as she spoke. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t realize you were behind me. I apologize.”

The man smiled, revealing a set of straight, white teeth reminding Claire of Chiclet gum pieces. His gray hair brushed the top of his shoulders and he sported a matching mustache and beard.

Claire’s initial reaction pegged him as a bit of a bohemian type.

He moved away before tipping his Panama hat.

While his smile had first caught her attention, his ocean-blue eyes now sparkled with merriment. Set against a tan face, the wrinkles around his eyes revealed his love of life and laughter. His gaze drew her into their depths.

She blinked to break whatever spell had captured her.

He wore an off-white linen guayabera shirt with matching trousers. On his long feet, he donned a pair of well-worn russet huaraches. One now coated with the white dusting of dirt from her shoe.

She grimaced and pointed. “Again, really sorry.”

He shrugged, “No harm, no foul. My toes are pretty tough.”

He motioned toward her hand. “Can I help you with that tome?”

Nodding, Claire fought to figure out where his accent came from. She gathered from her research that many Canadians made their home in the area, but she didn’t think it sounded the same. He had a good vocabulary, though, which always pleased her.

“That would be helpful. Thank you.”

She handed him the heavy book, and he deftly set it back on the top shelf. Even with Claire being five-nine, he had a good five inches on her. No wonder she’d felt his chest when she’d stepped back. She stole another glance. Even though he looked to be about her age, he definitely kept himself in shape.

As she pondered why she was even thinking about such things, the space between them had narrowed considerably. Claire fought the urge to put her back against the other set of bookcases. She didn’t want to appear ungrateful or rude. But one thing Claire struggled with was the need for boundary space.

“There. All settled.” He lowered his face to hers and they stood locked without speaking for a moment.

He glanced at the other books she held in her hands. “You’ve got a bit of a handful there.”

“Yes, I love reading, so thought I’d explore the library and find out what’s on offer here. I have my e-reader, but—”

“Ah, but there’s nothing like the pages of a book in your hands. It’s like the caress of a lover. Don’t you agree?”

Claire balked. “I don’t know about that, I just like to read books in print. That’s all.”

“Are you here for a brief stay or longer?”

Never one to give too much information, she replied with a murmur, “I think this will do for now.” She made to move away and out of the aisle.

“I notice you have a variety of genres. Do you like Benor’s books?”

She glanced down to note the book from Rick Benor at the top of the stack. “Yes, though not the last one I read.”

His brow furrowed. “Really? Why’s that?”

“Something off about it. Authors can’t always knock every book out of the park.”

He crossed his arms, and his eyes turned stormy blue. “Are you an author, then?”

“Oh no. But I’m well acquainted with good writing. I’m, well, was an English professor for many years.”

“Ah, what’s that saying again? Those who can’t…teach.”

She bristled at the subtle dig. The last thing she wanted to do was make an enemy on the first day there. She took a deep breath to stop herself from responding. Claire plastered on a firm smile and stepped away from him. “Well, I need to be going.”

He moved closer to the shelves for her to pass by. “Enjoy your books.”

Not knowing what to say, she decided not responding would be the best action. The lady at the counter smiled as she helped Claire set up her account.

Claire forced herself not to turn back around and look at him. But a strange energy pounded in her veins. She wanted to respond to his dig but at the same time, talk to him more about books and literature.

She felt his presence behind her and she turned to see him leaving the library. Her shoulders relaxed. “I’m sorry. I don’t mean to pry, but that gentleman—”

The woman glanced up to spy on him walking down the sidewalk. Not confident he couldn’t hear her, the woman bent closer and lowered her voice.

“Don’t worry about him. I think he fancies himself a bit of an author. He’s in the group that meets at the hotel. He’s brought people down a peg or two on occasion. I hate to gossip—”

Claire smiled. People who said that always loved to gossip. “Go on.”

“Some have a nickname for him. Grumpy teddy bear.” She giggled and her face lit up.

Claire glanced outside, but the man had walked out of sight. She chuckled. “I can believe it, actually. Pretty accurate description.” She placed the books in a bag she’d brought in her purse, drawing the string closed. As Claire moved toward the door, the woman called after her.

“Oh, I forgot. I’m not sure if it’s up on the board yet, but there’s a meet-and-greet dinner for newbies this Thursday at six. It’s at Go Bistro. Just tell the people at the desk so they know how many seats for dinner.”

“Thanks. I’ll think about it.”

Since Claire only intended to be there for a month, she doubted it would be worth attending. Better to save that spot for someone who wanted to live there. Although it might be nice to meet some of the other people.

Since the books were heavy, she decided she might as well take them back to her casita before walking to the market to grab a few more groceries. She’d made her way inside the gate and into the casita when she heard a sharp rap on her door.

Must be the landlord.

She patted her hair and opened the door.

“You!”

They said in unison.