11:00 a.m.
The young woman sat on the worn, examining table wearing a pale blue, paper gown. She had cuts and bruises in places she hadn’t realized. Thankfully, they didn’t hurt. Her unreal situation had been so dominant in her mind, these simple wounds seemed superficial.
Without any memory of who she was or how she’d ended up in the woods, Doctor Mitchell and the ER doctor on call had insisted on a full examination, a CT scan, and multiple interactions with other hospital personnel, including a social worker. All were very kind, except for the town doctor. His bedside manners left a lot to be desired.
She watched the aging man’s face as he scrawled his conclusions in an open folder, narrowing his eyes in concentration. He wasn’t very talkative. He came across as detached and uncaring. He asked questions without emotion or tenderness. How could someone take care of others for a living and yet, seem not to actually care about them?
Doctor Mitchell put down the pen and swiveled his metal stool around to face his patient. He sighed. “You have a relatively deep laceration on the side of your head that should heal without complication. The stitches we put in will dissolve within a week or two. The rest of your scratches can be treated with antiseptic and bandages. Your ankle will be fine in a couple of days. Don’t put any weight on it for the rest of the day. We’ll give you some crutches to help and wrap the ankle before you leave. Keep it elevated two to three hours today and tomorrow and ice it for about fifteen minutes every couple of hours this afternoon. If there was any swelling, it has already gone down, which is a good sign. The ice is more a precaution. In my opinion, its pain was brought on more by your exhaustion than actual injury.”
He pulled off his glasses, laying them on the counter. “The main issue, of course, is a concussion. That seems to be what is causing your memory loss. You will need to take it slow and easy for the next several days. And for the next twenty-four hours, someone will need to be with you at all times, closely monitoring you.”
He cleared his throat as he began clicking the pen opened and closed. “Are you sure you do not have any recollection of a family member or friend, even a hint of someone? Is there a city or school that possibly rings a bell?”
She pulled her lower lip under her teeth, desperate for a glimmer of recollection. “No, nothing at all. Nothing comes to mind,” she answered, blinking back a burning tear. “My memory will return though, won’t it, Doctor?”
He scratched the back of his head and responded indifferently. “It should.”
She waited for him to say more, to explain, to go into a detailed reason behind the short answer. When he didn’t, she shook her head in disbelief and repeated his comment. “It should?”
She hadn’t lingered too long on the possibility that her not knowing who she was would last more than a day. Now however, after hearing the unsympathetic doctor’s hollow prediction, she could think of nothing else. Again, just like in the truck, panic overcame her. Her breaths quickened simultaneously with her rising heartbeat thumping in her neck.
“What does that mean - it should? You mean it might not?”
“Time usually tells in this sort of thing. There’s nothing else wrong with you except the aforementioned minor injuries. Your CT scan was rushed to the radiologist for reading and it came back clean, no bleeding on the brain.” He spoke every sentence at the same pitch; no word was emphasized over another. “But because of the concussion, don’t do anything strenuous or for long periods at a time, even reading, for the next couple of days. After that, introduce activity slowly and carefully until you’ve been given my all-clear.”
“But?” Her head started to hurt again. The doctor almost looked annoyed that she wasn’t taking the news with ease. He apparently did not like to be bothered with questions. “But, what do I do? I have no money. Where do I go? I don’t even know where I was when they found me!”
His expression didn’t change. It was like his face was carved out of stone, with no sympathy as he answered matter-of-factly.
“You were found in Jennings, a small town in south Georgia. As for what you should do – rules are somewhat sketchy in these parts concerning a non-threatening, otherwise healthy adult with amnesia. As long as you agree to stick around until I clear you, the social worker will likely question you again, make the proper authorities aware of the situation, and set you up with someone in town to watch over you. That is, if you refuse to stay overnight at the hospital for observation.”
A fear, greater than the thought of her memory not returning, embraced her. She could not explain it, but the idea of being watched over and observed unnerved her.
“If I don’t stay at the hospital, would I be set up with someone like a nurse or police officer?”
He grunted, seemingly bothered. “Yes, probably, but not necessarily. Like I said, Jennings is a small town. Everyone knows everyone. As long as the person is trustworthy, the social worker will likely make allowances. If you’re uncomfortable with the idea of another stranger filling that job, I suggest you speak with Nicholas Nelson, the man who brought you in. He does a lot of odd jobs around the county. He may know of a place for you to stay that would satisfy you.”
Doctor Mitchell shut her folder and dabbed a tissue to his watery eye. Allergies. “Your blurry vision, I believe, is not a result of your head injury. Nicholas went back to the woods after he dropped you off and found these not far from where he found you. If I’m right, they are yours.”
He handed her a pair of dark, wire-framed glasses. She tried them on and everything became suddenly clear. A sigh of relief escaped. At least one problem was solved.
The doctor cleared his throat, satisfied in his prediction. “Because the rules in this situation are not technically law-breaking ones, I would strongly suggest you still abide by my and the social worker’s suggestions. You should stay in town for a while, definitely until I clear you and hopefully until your memory returns or a loved one is located.”
He looked at the woman, her eyes glazing over. She was obviously distraught, almost on the verge of hysterics, if he had to guess. His job was to stitch her up and give her something for her headache. He was not a social worker or a counselor. He was a doctor. He’d never been good at anything else. He treated ailments, not emotions.
“Now,” he continued. “I’d like to see you again in a few days, to re-examine your head and ankle.”
She looked at the professional in front of her, dumbfounded. He’d reopened her file and was already busy scribbling his final notes, obviously ready to dismiss her.
What am I going to do, God? Who am I?
She felt lost, physically and mentally, with no idea of who she was. She didn’t even know what kind of a person she was. Was she a hardworking woman who loved the spotlight and the outdoors or was she a quiet introvert? Was she kind or was she someone no one wanted to be around? She could be anyone. There were so many open-ended questions. It was as if she’d stepped into someone else’s mind, someone who thought of nothing, someone living in a cave with no entrance or exit. The mind was completely empty except for the last few hours and thankfully, her knowledge of God. If I’d forgotten Him too! She shuttered at the thought.
She looked curiously at the physician, trying desperately to pull in a realistic thought. He wasn’t going to offer any help, not the kind she really needed. The only direction he’d given her was professional information and a suggestion to talk to the man who’d found her in the woods. She didn’t have much of a choice. The idea of staying in the hospital did not seem desirable for some reason. So, she’d speak with the social worker, agree to stay for the time being, and strongly consider seeking out help from the hunter. Nicholas Nelson, at least, seemed friendlier than the so-called expert.
Nicholas lowered his head and rubbed the back of his neck. What had he just agreed to take on? He’d spent the last twenty-five minutes talking to Roberta Perry, one of the hospital’s social workers. Roberta was a local, born and raised in Jennings and graduated high school a couple of years ahead of Nicholas. Their families knew each other well. He answered all her questions and before he knew it he’d volunteered his services, or rather, his sister’s. Roberta agreed but only after she’d spoken with Doctor Mitchell’s patient.
“Sorry for screaming earlier – in the woods.”
Nicholas lifted his head, seeing the young woman and Roberta making their way over to them. He smiled and stood. “That surely doesn’t need apologizing for. I’ve got a younger sister. I have always told her to yell as loud as she could if she ever felt she was in danger. You were only doing what comes natural and what you should’ve done.”
She grinned, still embarrassed.
“I see you have a new ride,” he joked, pointing to the crutches. “Looks like you’re already a pro.”
“Thanks … Nicholas, is it?”
“Yes, ma’am, that’s me. Most people call me Nick, but I prefer Nicholas. My dad is Nick and it causes a lot of confusion when you don’t know which Nick people are talking about.”
She grinned. He was definitely friendlier than the doctor. She faced his companion. “And Vincent?”
“Uh, yes. Vincent Cobb.”
“And do people call you something different?”
He looked caught off guard for some reason. “Nick calls me Vin, but everyone else pretty much sticks with Vincent.” The smile he wore seemed forced, intentional. He was a bit pale and his tall, lanky body wobbled.
She looked at him curiously. “Are you okay?”
Nicholas started laughing, slapping his friend on the back. “Vin here, is not the biggest fan of hospitals. I’m impressed he’s made it here as long as he has.”
“Oh, I see.”
“You all finished?” Nicholas asked Roberta, still grinning.
“We are.” Roberta turned to the woman and handed her something. “Now if you have any questions or concerns, here’s my card. Call anytime. Otherwise, I’ll be checking in often until this is resolved. Remember to follow Dr. Mitchell’s orders.”
The woman nodded. “Thank you.”
Although the social worker had been considerably more empathetic than the doctor, she still hadn’t done anything to ease the woman’s mind. She felt like she was just being passed from one person to the next and it rattled her.
She subconsciously reached up, searching for the stitches, as they said their goodbyes. The skin was still numb from the Novocain shot but she could feel the uncomfortable pull of the sutures.
“Nicholas, thank you. Doctor Mitchell said you went back and found my glasses.”
“No problem. Glad to see the squinting has stopped,” he winked.
Vincent tightened his jaw as he looked at his watch. “I need to go.”
“Half a day’s work is better than none.” Nicholas held the door opened as they stepped into the morning light. “Let me drop Vin off at his house so he can get to work and we’ll head on over to my sister’s. Her place is down the street from Vin’s. Then you can get cleaned up.”
The tired woman breathed a short sigh of relief. Cleaned up meant a shower. A change of clothes. This man was already offering help she needed.
“That sounds wonderful. Thank you.”
The three of them piled into Nicholas’ four door, grey F-150 Ford truck, allowing the woman to sit in the front passenger seat, next to Nicholas. The truck was fully loaded with burgundy leather seats, a sunroof, and XM radio. For such a beautiful vehicle, it was quite messy. There were camouflage duffel bags and extra hunting clothes, including a couple of turkey vests scattered across the floor of the backseat. Vincent looked uncomfortable as he tried to position himself between all the gear and added crutches. Two shotguns sat on his left side, sending uneasiness through the woman. For some reason, she felt the sport of hunting did not sit well with her. She shivered.
Nicholas leaned forward, pressing a button on the control panels. Within a few seconds, she felt warmth eluding from her seat. Seat warmers. He had misinterpreted her shiver. She closed her eyes and let the heat travel throughout her body. It felt good, soothing.
They sat in silence for a couple of minutes, riding through town, each reliving the early morning hours. The sun had long since risen, clearing away any remnants of the night and bringing with it the start of a day, a day already in deep motion.
“Did you happen to remember anything while you were with the doctor? Your name or where you came from?” asked Vincent, breaking the silence with the question both men were thinking.
Opening her eyes, she responded faintly, “No, nothing. I have no idea who I am, how old I am, where I came from, or anything.” Understandable sadness tainted her voice. Her thoughts were such a jumbled mess, she couldn’t figure out how to disentangle them. She felt like her mind was a ball of yarn with the end tucked deep inside, just far enough away from her unraveling reach.
“I’ve thought about a family, of friends and co-workers. Anyone missing me? Is there a husband or a child out there without a wife or mother? Parents? Grandparents? I’ve thought about a reason for being in the woods. Was I with someone and somehow we got separated? What if there’s someone else still out there? Why was I there? Where was I going and where was I coming from?” She spoke quickly as the questions came to her one after another.
The men heard a deep sigh. “It’s just so much to take in, to grasp. I’m trying hard not to let any of that scare me, but I don’t think I’m doing a very good job of it.”
The confused woman let out her thoughts, choosing to express her concerns and fears to perfect strangers. Vincent knew Nicholas was pondering what she said as much as he was. His friend was the type to fix what he could. He’d find more time today to comb through those woods again, to make sure no one else was there. He’d do it himself even though the authorities were there now. But he’d do it without making a big deal of it. He’d already spoken to his friend, a deputy for the Jennings Police Department, as Doctor Mitchell examined the girl. No one had reported anyone missing matching her description yet.
Vincent silently thought through all her questions. They were most of his as well. He’d have to wait to find the answers when she did. He wasn’t sure what else to say.
“Sorry.” He sat, staring at the back of the passenger seat. She was shorter than the seat, so all he saw were a few strands of hair escaping underneath the headrest.
Nicholas suddenly slapped the steering wheel, sending the woman jumping. “Oops, I keep doing that, don’t I?” he said apologetically. He gave her a second to calm down. “I’ve got an idea. Why don’t we come up with a name that you can go by, until your memory does come back? Might be fun, you know, getting to pick your own name. What’da say?”
She grimaced, trying hard to see the fun in her situation. It wasn’t fun. It was frightening and unnerving. Still, she would need to go by something. She’d need a name of some kind. Otherwise, she’d have to answer indefinitely to “hey, you” or “lady.”
“Okay.” She leaned up and pressed the button, turning off her seat warmer. It was getting hot, thinking about her unknown future. “Any suggestions?”
An overly enthusiastic smile pulled at the corners of Nicholas’ lips. “Plenty. How about Virginia or Chloe or Ella?” he asked, tapping his finger on his chin in a feigned expression of thoughtfulness. “Or, um, let’s see … there’s Claire or Clara … Franny?” She grunted. “No,” he shook his head in response, “not Franny - too childish sounding.”
“Karen?” came from the back seat. Nicholas laughed, peering at his friend through the rearview mirror.
“You’re ex? Really, man?”
“Nope, guess not. It was the only name I could think of.” He lowered his head, studying his boots.
The woman rolled her eyes in frustration. None of those names sounded right.
“Okay, um,” Nicholas thought. “Let’s see. There’s Victoria, or Sydney, or Rachel. Or if you think you might like a more traditional name, there’s Mary, or Sara, or Elizabeth. Then there are your really uncommon ones like Odessa or Veruca. Veruca might be a fun name.” She crinkled her nose at the last two suggestions. “Any of those sound appealing?”
She thought carefully about what it would feel to be called by one of those names? None of them rang a bell or felt like home, but she’d need to choose one. She needed an identity, even if it was only temporary.
“Sydney. I guess Sydney will do.”
He smiled widely, “Sydney it is. It’s nice to meet you, Sydney.”
1:30 p.m.
Now that she could see without squinting, Sydney peered out the window of the truck as they drove through town, heading to Vincent’s house. The day was bright and sunny. Wind gently blew through the trees, sending a mixed message of contentment. She frowned slightly, feeling that if she weren’t in this predicament, she’d probably enjoy being outside in this weather. Something pulled at her to roll down the window and let the breeze and warmth of the sun’s rays slide over her skin. It felt like an electric charge running through her, from the top of her head to the tips of her toes, giving her an ounce of much-needed energy. She laid her head on her propped arm, halfway out of the vehicle, trying to keep the current flowing.
Traffic was light. There were four red lights, spread throughout the town with several stores lining each side of Main Street. A few of the stores were local shops, selling clothing or yogurt and homemade goodies or other paraphernalia. A hardware store and two drug stores sat across the street from each other. Consignment shops and discounted-priced stores of everyday essentials looked to be the most common, with one at almost every intersection. A family-owned grocery store stood at the heart of the town, across from the courthouse, which was beautiful. It was two stories, made entirely of brick. The design looked old, but the building looked new. A simple fountain stood in the middle of the parking lot, momentarily drawing the attention away from the building. Its water shot up, forming an umbrella and splattering over.
After dropping Vincent off at his house, Nicholas drove back to town for gas. He’d be running on fumes before long and the few extra minutes would give his sister more time to adjust to the idea of a stranger coming over. It was the least he could do after springing Sydney’s predicament on her.
They passed a handful of places to eat, most small and local, but a few were big-named chains. People bustled in and out, their Friday well on its way. One of the three gas stations shared its building with a fast food restaurant. A tan, older model pickup was stationed at one of the four pumps. Nicholas pulled in behind it, grabbing the spot closest to the entrance.
“You mind if I fill her up?” he asked, rolling down the windows and turning off the engine.
Sydney shook her head as her stomach growled, rather loudly. She had no idea when she’d last eaten. Nicholas frowned. If the sound had come from anyone else he might’ve laughed, but not when it came from the woman next to him. It was just another reminder that whoever she was, she’d had a rough night.
“Let’s see,” he reached into his pocket and pulled out a twenty dollar bill. “Why don’t you guard the pump … from the front seat,” he winked, “and I’ll get us a snack.”
Sydney smiled. “Okay.”
“What do you want?”
The smiled faded. “I don’t know.”
“I’ll surprise you then. Let’s hope you’re not picky.” He winked again as got out of the truck.
“Hey, would you mind getting some aspirin too? The pain reliever they gave me earlier for my headache is starting to wear off.”
“Sure thing.”
She watched Nicholas set the nozzle in place and head into the store.
What do I want to eat? Am I a picky eater, God?
Praying came so naturally that it gave her the only peace she had in this whole ordeal. It was obvious her memory wasn’t completely gone. After all, she knew how to walk and read. She understood and comprehended. She knew things, most things, in fact. She just didn’t know the specifics of who she was. But the simple fact that she also knew Jesus was a huge encouragement. She felt strangely strong and confident in that memory alone.
A couple minutes later, Nicolas returned with the medicine, two water bottles, two boxes of caramel popcorn, a couple bags of sour cream and onion potato chips, and a pack each of chocolate covered candies, plain and peanut.
“I took a guess,” Nicholas said, handing her the bag. He replaced the nozzle, retrieved his receipt, and restarted the truck. “Well?”
“Um,” she raised her eyebrows. “I guess we’ll see.”
She quickly swallowed two pills before choosing to open the bag of chips and plain candies. She smiled, taking a bite of them together.
“See! You already know what’s good. Sweet and salty, just the way I like it too.”
Nicholas pulled into the driveway of a two-story yellow house. A lone tree, full and beautiful in its spring green color, sat off-centered in the front yard, offering shade to over half of the lawn. Shrubs lined the weaving sidewalk leading to the front door with newly planted perennials connecting each green bush.
“Does your sister have any kids?” Sydney asked as she imagined a small neighborhood football game played out on the three-quarters of an acre.
“One. Walker’s only a few months old, but he’s already the cutest kid in the state,” he beamed proudly. “That swing set in the back yard was my gift to him when he was born. I guess it was a little premature, huh?”
She glanced in the direction of his comment, seeing a large wooden swing set in the fenced-in back yard. There were two swings hanging between a green, plastic slide and a set of monkey bars. The whole outdoor toy was covered under a dark wooden canopy.
“Maybe, but he’ll grow into it. It’ll be there when he’s ready for it, which will be sooner than you realize.” Sydney forced a smile.
It felt odd standing in a neighborhood she did not recognize, interacting with someone she just met, and discussing normal topics of everyday life. She knew she wasn’t sick, so to speak, but it didn’t fit for her to have the freedom to walk around society when she felt she needed to be surrounded by medical professionals, hooked up to an IV bag or being handed a large pill and a glass of water. She wasn’t a picture of health, not mentally anyway. If she were in a hospital, at least she’d have the mindset that she was being treated for her problem. But she didn’t want that either. She chose to leave that place. Here, out in the open however, she had to keep telling herself it was like a bad nightmare.
They rang the doorbell and a tall, thin woman holding a towel, opened it. She was cute, the girl-next-door kind of cute. Her light brown hair was pulled back in a low ponytail and she wore jeans with an orange and green checked blouse.
Her voice was tired but kind as she spoke. “Hey big brother.” She wiped her hands on the towel, drying them. The bags under her eyes were a sign that she’d recently had a baby. She was no doubt, still in the wake-up-during-the-night stage.
“Hey, sis.” He leaned over and gave her a hug. “You sure you don’t mind all this?”
She glanced at Sydney and sympathetically responded. “No, not at all. It’ll be nice to remember I’m still a nurse, not just a mommy. Though I’m not complaining,” she smiled. “Come on in.”
They stepped into the house. Smells of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies and baby powder greeted them. Classical music played softly from the room to the right.
“Nel, I’d like you to meet someone.” Nicholas put his hand on the shoulder next to him. “This is Sydney. Sydney, this is my baby sister, Nellie Yates.”
Sydney strained for contentment at the sound of her new name.
“It’s very nice to meet you, Sydney and welcome.”
“Thank you. Nice to meet you too,” she said cautiously.
“So,” Nellie started compassionately, “how did the two of you actually meet up? I’ve only heard the basics – that you’ve lost your memory from a concussion and you’re alone.” She paused, her mouth slightly turning down. “I am so sorry about that. You must be terrified.”
For some reason talking about her encounters that morning, because she had no idea of who she was, felt embarrassing. It’s not like she’d forgotten a test answer or an item at the market. She’d forgotten herself. And what’s worse, she didn’t know how to go about finding herself. If it’d been a forgotten item from the grocery list, all she’d have to do is go back to the store to retrieve the missing ingredient. Where could she go to get back her memory?
“I, um, I needed some help this morning and he and his friend offered to be that help. They found me in the woods.” She shifted her stance. “Sydney is just a name we thought would work for the time being, since I have no idea what my name actually is.” She sighed, showing how exhausted she really was. “I’m okay, I guess - a little tired and dirty, but okay. It’s all just very strange.”
Nicholas chimed in, momentarily putting to the side the uncertainty of Sydney’s morning. Why was she in the woods? What caused her physical wounds? Why was she alone? There were no answers yet and it bothered him. He hoped part of those questions would be figured out soon, but first, he wanted to make sure she was comfortable.
“Nel, other than her staying with you, I was hoping Sydney could also borrow some clothes, if possible. Or I can round up something from Nan’s closet while she’s away. You all three look to be about the same size.”
“No need for that. You know Mom’s taste in clothing. It’s a bit out there. Sydney is welcome to my closet.” Nellie grinned. “How about food? Have the two of you had any today?”
“Not really. I was hoping to sweet talk you into a good, late lunch.” Nicholas lovingly winked at his sister.
“Well, no worries,” she responded, looking considerately at Sydney. “I haven’t eaten yet either. I’ll fix us up something while you head upstairs for a shower – or bath, if that’s easier.” Nellie straightened and slid her hands into her pants’ pockets. “I know I’ve been assigned to keep an eye on you, especially the next twenty-four hours, but I’d like you to feel like you have a say in the matter. Since it’s just the baby and me, it gets kind of lonely. It might be nice having another adult around to talk to. But if you’d rather the authorities find someone else for the job, you can say so.” Nellie’s blue eyes looked sad, but there was a hint of hope in her request. “What’d you think?”
Sydney glanced at Nicholas. He was smiling proudly at his sister. If the situation had been reversed, she highly doubted she would’ve been so generous to help, especially if she had a child. Nellie knew nothing of Sydney. Sydney knew nothing of herself. She hoped she was kind and loving, but she really didn’t know. Putting that much trust and faith into a perfect stranger and allowing her into her home was unheard of, wasn’t it?
Sydney paused, wondering if it was the right thing to do. Of the limited individuals she’d met today, Nicholas and his sister had been the kindest. If they could trust her, surely she could trust them.
Smiling with hesitant gratitude, she answered. “If you’re sure you don’t mind.”
“Great! It’s settled! Nick, why don’t you go check on Walker in the den while I show Sydney around.” She put her arm around her brother’s guest, completely dismissing the filthy clothes she was wearing. “Come on, Sydney. I’ll get out some towels and give you a few options of clothing to choose from.”
“I really do appreciate it. It’ll be nice to get out of these clothes and start smelling decent again. I know everyone I’ve seen today would be appreciative too.”
The ladies laughed, as if understanding an inside joke. Nellie led her upstairs to the guestroom as Nicholas thought how blessed he was to have such a trusting and compassionate sister, even after everything she’d been through. He had no doubt the two women would get along beautifully. What time he’d spent with Sydney already testified to their likely compatibility.
1:40 p.m.
“Did you find the girl yet?” he asked, fearful of the answer.
“No! Last time I saw her was when she disappeared into that crowd at the bus terminal. Man! I almost had her too. Ya think it’s poss’ble she got on a bus instead of drivin’ off in a car?”
“I doubt it. She didn’t look like the type to take a bus.” He shifted the phone to the other ear.
“Well, keep your ears low to the ground. No one’s lookin’ for us at the moment. She’ll pr’bly talk, if she ain’t already. Don’t know what she’d say though, other than what she saw us do. You’re convinced she didn’t see our faces and if that’s true, she won’t be able to identify us. Kinda hard to pin something on us without an ID.”
“It was an accident. Maybe she’ll just forget about it and let it go.” He tried sounding hopeful.
“Accident or no accident. Roland don’t like it when we get sloppy. And he definitely don’t like it when there are witnesses.”
“Did you tell him about her yet?”
“Nope. Was hoping to take care of her on our own without lettin’ him know we messed it up. Just keep an eye out, will ya? Let’s don’t worry about Roland right now,” he nervously suggested. “I’ll fill him in soon enough.”
2:00 p.m.
The warm shower was just what Sydney needed. She did her best to keep the weight on one leg. Her skin stung as the water rolled down her body, hitting her many cuts. She ignored the sensation. She switched the knob on the showerhead to a higher pressure and tilted her head up. Hard water fell over her face and shoulders, massaging away the tension of the morning. Grime and anxiety washed down the drain, leaving her feeling several pounds lighter. She knew it was imaginary, that a large amount of weight remained, that of her memory. However, she was grateful some of the pressure had been removed.
Careful with her stitches, she finished drying her hair with Nellie’s spare hair dryer and hobbled in front of the full-length mirror. It was attached to the back of the closet door. In it she saw a reflection that seemed familiar, and at the same time, didn’t. A woman about five feet four inches, with sandy blonde hair, a little longer than her shoulders and layered around her face, stared back at her. She was strong looking, with defined calf and thigh muscles, as if she’d worked out on a regular basis. Her chocolate brown eyes seemed almost lifeless after the last several hours. She hoped that would fade in time. Freckles covered her nose and across her cheeks, creating a sort of line just below the frame of her glasses. She noticed her skin was mostly pale, except for the light farmer’s tan on her arms and legs revealing a multi-shaded, skin-colored outline of shorts and a t-shirt.
She pulled herself away from her reflection, hoping that she wouldn’t feel like she was looking at a stranger for much longer. Behind her, she noticed a wedding photograph, intricately framed, hanging above the bedpost. Nellie made a beautiful bride. The picture didn’t look old and Sydney secretly wondered why Nellie said it was just she and the baby. What had happened to her husband? She shook her head, reminding herself she had enough to worry about with her own mysteries without needing to understand someone else’s.
Several outfits, displayed on the bed, caught her attention. There was a pair of jeans with a pale purple button up shirt, a floral skirt and coral top to match, and a mint green pair of sweats. Nellie had given her the option of casual, dressy, or comfortable. Sydney smiled at the thought that went into her choices. It was nice. She didn’t know what she would’ve chosen yesterday, when she knew who she was, but today, she chose casual. She slid on the jeans and shirt and put on a clean pair of socks she pulled from a laundry basket on the floor. She chose not to put her dirty tennis shoes back on. It felt nice to walk, or hop around, without the yuck for a while.
Sydney took one last glance in the mirror on her way out and let out a heavy sigh. She had no choice but to make the most of the opportunity, unless she wanted to wallow her day away. She was grateful for the Nelsons and all they had offered her in the last several hours. At least she could now see and wasn’t still in the woods, scared and filthy.
Downstairs, she found Nicholas holding a beautiful bald, chunky baby. He made faces and cooed at him, trying to get him to smile. Nellie laughed at the two of them while browning some meat on the stove. They were a happy family, though Nellie’s happiness seemed sporadic.
Nicholas spun around, seeing the new Sydney. He smiled kindly. “Feel better?”
“Yes, much. Thank you both.” She shied away, knowing she was on display, and hobbled to the side of the kitchen.
Nellie looked up from her cooking. “You look nice and refreshed.”
“I feel refreshed.”
“You like spaghetti?”
“Um, I guess we’ll find out.” Sydney let out a half laugh. She walked by the baby in Nicholas’ arms on the way to the stove and smiled. “He’s precious, Nellie.”
“No arguments here.”
“What can I do to help?”
“Nothing. You ought to sit down at the table. Stick your leg on another chair. You’ve got just enough time to ice that ankle before the venison is ready.”
“Okay,” Sydney obeyed. Nicholas had an ice pack waiting on her as soon as she situated her leg. She smiled her gratitude. “Venison?”
Nicholas let out a chuckle. “Yep, beats having to buy the meat from the store. It’s great, you’ll see.”
Sydney grimaced. “I’m sure it is.”
Nellie laughed and scooped up her son out of his uncle’s arms. “You finish browning it while I feed this little monster.” She headed upstairs to nurse him while Nicholas took over cooking duty.
“So Nicholas, what do you do? Besides hunt and rescue lost women?” She tried sounding lighthearted as she watched him combine the brown meat with the already cooked noodles.
“I’m a teacher. And a coach.”
“Really? I wouldn’t have guessed that.”
“And what would you have guessed?” He left the pot of food on the table next to a jar of sauce before pulling three glasses from the cabinet above the dishwasher.
Smiling sheepishly, she said, “Dr. Mitchell said you did odd jobs around the county. So when I heard that, and given that your look is a little, um … super casual, I assumed you were a handy-man of sorts.”
He let out a loud laugh. “I guess I can see how you thought that. Since it’s Spring Holidays, I’ve taken a break from shaving. We get about a week and a half off and I usually spend most of that free time in the woods. The turkeys don’t mind a little scruff,” he teased. “And yes, I guess I am a bit of a handy-man around here. Teachers don’t make a whole lot, so I pick up other jobs when I can. Mostly it’s stuff like painting houses or fixing a leaky faucet or yard work. Occasionally, it’s even jobs like helping someone move or mending woodwork on a porch railing. Some choose to pay me with money, others with a homemade casserole or pie. I’m generally open to either.”
“You sound like a jack of all trades.” She opened the jar and mixed in the spaghetti sauce with the meat and noodles, silently wondering why she felt comfortable enough to speak so boldly. “Not to pry, but your truck is pretty nice to have a payday of casseroles and pies.”
Goodness, that was pretty insensitive. Thankfully, his expression revealed he hadn’t taken it rudely.
“Point taken,” he said grinning. “Actually, that’s my dad’s truck. I drive a very much used, but loved 2004 Chevy Silverado. Dad flew out to Iowa to visit his brother and his family for a few days. I thought I’d keep it warm for him.”
“Very thoughtful of you,” she smirked. “What do you teach and coach?”
“Math at the middle school and I coach the JV boys’ soccer team.”
“Sounds fun. I bet you’re pretty good at both.”
“It is fun, and rewarding. Wouldn’t trade it for all the cubicle jobs in the world.” He opened the refrigerator, collecting a plastic jug. “Nellie will want sweet tea. What do you want to drink? She’s got tea, milk, diet soda, and water.”
“I’ll try the tea. Never know if I’ll like it unless I try it.” She put the lid over the finished spaghetti to keep it warm until they were ready to eat. Nicholas watched her, considering her situation.
“You do realize that you just finished making that spaghetti without asking how. You already knew how.”
“I poured sauce over noodles and meat. Walker could have figured that out,” she replied sarcastically. “But it’s true. I’m coming to understand that I instinctively know most things, maybe even everything. I just don’t know myself. It’s a blessing, in a way. And at the same time, frustrating that I’m the one thing I can’t remember.”
“It’ll come back. Don’t worry,” he responded quietly.
“I hope you’re right. It’d help if I knew how I got the concussion, maybe then I could start answering questions. I mean, was I playing ball or did I fall off a ledge somewhere? Was I taking a walk and then slipped on something? Maybe it was as crazy as falling out of bed in the middle of the night. I don’t know. I just feel like finding out how I got the concussion would open up the door to figuring out who I am. But then there’s the … ‘I got the concussion by … fill in the blank … but how did I end up in the woods’ question too.” She sighed. “Does any of that make sense?”
Nicholas placed the drinks in front of the plates and took a seat next to her. He leaned over and laid a hand atop hers. “Yes, Sydney, it does.” He quickly withdrew his hand, feeling her fingers tighten. She was still a bit apprehensive of him.
She cleared her throat. “I mainly keep wondering how I got here. It’s obvious I’m not from around here since no one seems to recognize me. But if not from here, then where?” She stared at the tiled floor, trying to force the recollections to mind. All that surfaced were more questions.
“You know, when I lose my car keys or my favorite baseball cap, which I do quite regularly,” he grinned, “I pray. I ask God to help me find them. It isn’t long before they show up.”
He prays? The idea that the hunter who’d found her could be a believer was encouraging.
“Your memory is something lost, just the same as my car keys. In other words, it’s around here somewhere.” He chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. “If it’s His Will and if we ask Him, He’ll help you find what you lost. Whatcha think?”
Sydney’s eyes brightened. She felt the shift from uncertainty to hopefulness as she blinked. It was like someone had thrown a cup of ice cold water in her face to jolt her awake. Hearing Nicholas talk about God brought the picture of a puzzle to mind, different pieces that connect to form a Christian’s life. Thankfully, she hadn’t forgotten God or His Son, Jesus. They were center pieces of the puzzle. But God’s specific Word was another story. She hadn’t recalled why she knew the Lord, just that she knew and loved Him.
Without warning, Bible verses flooded her mind, as if He were talking to her, face to face - verses of His comfort, His peace, His mercy and His grace. She loved Him and He loved her, so much so that He sent His only Son to take the punishment for her sins on Himself. He died for her so that she could spend eternity with Him, if she believed – and believe, she did.
But whom, exactly, did You die for, Lord? Who am I? What is my name?
“Sydney?” Nicholas looked concerned. He’d seen her suddenly relax and then stiffen again in confusion.
She shook her head, temporarily clearing away the insecurities. She lifted her eyes to him, the hope returning.
“I remember His Word, Nicholas. I remember so many verses. It’s beautiful. So yes, Nicholas, let’s pray about it.”
5:30 p.m.
Vincent spent all day at work, thinking about Sydney. The distractions of his job weren’t strong enough to dismiss the events of that morning. The recollection of her piercing, dark brown eyes burned directly into his thoughts. How had she gotten all the way out to Jennings, so deep in the woods? She looked downright lost and terrified when they found her. What had happened to cause that deep cut on the side of her head? She truly didn’t know who she was or where she’d come from. At first, he thought she was pretending, messing with them out of fright. However, the more time he spent with her, the more he was convinced her behavior was no act. She really could not remember.
He looked around, trying to find something to do, to take his mind off of her. In order to forget about his morning, he’d needed a full afternoon schedule. Unfortunately, he had no other appointments scheduled that day. Presently, a few dogs were in the back, but they were only there for grooming, not medical purposes.
Being a veterinarian in a small town was busy at times and utterly boring at others. The fact that his clinic was one of two only added to the lack of business. His three assistants took care of all the minor details like running the front desk, filing, and keeping the examining rooms clean. He was only needed when an animal required help. Frankly, the office could probably get by with just two assistants, but the three older ladies had been a part of the clinic long before Vincent took over. He was never sure how to go about downsizing without hurting one of them.
Vincent typically liked his job when it ran smoothly, when the day went by quickly. Unfortunately, today wasn’t one of those days. He glanced at his watch. It was five thirty. He thought about staying and then decided against it. He would cut out a half hour early. If an emergency arose, his assistants would call him. He straightened up the top of his desk and headed out the door, knowing his car would drive itself to Nellie’s house. That was where she was - Sydney, the woman who couldn’t remember her past.
Vincent Cobb arrived at Nellie’s house just as she and Nicholas were stepping out the front door. He pulled his car to the curb, out of the way.
“Hi, guys. Where are you two headed?”
Nellie slid her arm through her brother’s. “It’s been so long since I’ve had a night out that Nick here, has offered to take his little sister for a bite to eat and then to see a movie. Sydney has graciously volunteered to watch Walker. Truthfully, I think the day has been a bit long for her and she wanted some time away from me. I’ve pounded her with questions since she arrived.”
“Oh.” His expression flattened. “You think that’s wise … her watching the baby?” He shrugged, sticking his hands in his pockets. “I mean, what do we know about her? She doesn’t even know about herself. She’s a complete stranger. We only met her twelve hours ago.”
Nicholas coughed, warning his friend to stand down. Nellie’s expression shifted from contentment to annoyance in the blink of an eye.
“Don’t you think I’ve thought about that, Vincent Cobb?” She breathed heavily, offended he didn’t respect her motherly instincts, and tried stepping into his territory. Nicholas pulled her back. She unwillingly relented. “I’ve left her our numbers and we’re not going to be gone long, just a few hours. She’s capable, and she won’t hurt him.”
“How do you know that?”
“I just know, okay?” Her voice reached a higher octave, one that only Vincent pushed her to. “There’s something about her. I trust her.” She was tired of her brother’s friend always second-guessing her. She shot him a look, the most she could do without upsetting her brother. He finally caught it and stopped pressing her.
Nicholas offered a suggestion. “Sydney’s pretty tired, but could probably use some new company, for a few minutes anyway. That way, you could talk to her and maybe it’d ease your mind about us leaving Walker with her.”
“You think so?” he asked unconvincingly.
“Yeah, sure. Come on. I’ll let her know you’re here.” Nellie let out a humph and continued to her brother’s truck while Nicholas walked with Vincent back to the house. He elbowed his best friend and chuckled. “I know you have sense, Vin, but man, when it comes to my sister – you’re almost a glutton for punishment.”
Vincent ground his teeth. “I’ve got enough sense to know you don’t leave a baby with a perfect stranger. And she ought to too.”
“She does, man.” Vincent looked over at Nicholas as he heard a touch of humor in his words. “You might want to back off and give Nel the trust she deserves. She’s a good mama, and you know that.”
The men stepped into the den, spying Sydney sitting on the floor, playing with Walker. The baby’s coos brought a gentle smile to her face.
“Thought you left,” she said, without looking up.
“Yeah, well, we’re trying. Look who just showed up?” Sydney turned her attention from the baby to Nicholas’ voice. Her smile faded slightly, on impulse. Nicholas ignored the look, hoping his friend had missed it altogether. “You mind if Vin visits with you and Walker for a minute or two?” He leaned in, cupping a hand around his mouth, whispering loud enough for all parties to hear. “I think he’s secretly curious about you, maybe even a little worried.” He winked.
Sydney repositioned her legs. Her smile returned. “Of course not. It’s nice to see you again, Vincent. Please, come on in.” She motioned for him to sit in the chair behind where she and Walker had been playing. Then she turned her attention to Nicholas. “Go on. We’ll be fine. Enjoy your time with your sister.”
“Okay. Have a good evening, Sydney, and make sure you holler upstairs if you need anything,” he added as he softly chuckled out the door to rejoin his sister.
Vincent stared at the closing front door in confusion before turning to look at the girl they’d found in the woods just a few hours before. “Who’s upstairs?”
“Oh, um, Nellie’s sister-in-law. By doctor’s orders, I can’t be left alone for a while and it wouldn’t be right for Nellie to leave Walker with someone she didn’t know, so Kelsey volunteered to … I guess … babysit us both.”
Vincent took a seat, chiding himself for assuming the worse. He brushed his floppy, blonde hair out of his eyes. His tall, gangling figure seemed out of place in the petite rocking chair. Sydney let out a quiet giggle.
“You can move to the couch, if you’d rather. There’s more room. I’ll take the chair. I’d like to rock this precious one for a minute or two anyway.”
“Oh, okay.” He quickly moved, allowing her to have her way. “Why is Kelsey upstairs?”
“She’s editing a few articles for the Jennings paper and said she needed complete quiet. Supposedly she has a deadline to meet by eight tonight. I’m sure she’ll be down to check on us in a few minutes, but I can ask her to come now, if you’d like.”
Vincent grunted as he shook his head no, inwardly yelling at himself.
When will I ever do the right thing by Nellie?
They sat in awkward silence for several seconds, neither sure of what to say. Sydney studied him, trying to make out why he looked like he was in pain. Vincent Cobb was definitely not as transparent as his best friend.
“You,” he finally said, “look clean … different … nice.” He dropped his eyes, somewhat embarrassed.
“Um, thanks, I think.” She wasn’t sure how to take the man. He seemed nice enough but his demeanor wasn’t as welcoming as Nicholas’ and his sister’s. “Nellie’s been great. She’s letting me borrow some of her clothes for the time being.”
“Yeah, she’s pretty great.” He shifted uncomfortably. “You going to stay with her, until you figure out what to do?”
“She’s offered and I’ve accepted. She said she’d like the company and could use the help with the baby for a while. If I’m in the same predicament when she returns to work that I’m in now, I may try to figure out some other arrangements. I definitely don’t want to overstay my welcome. Her extended maternity leave is up in two weeks and Walker will then head to daycare.” The thought that her memory could be just as lost two weeks from now was disheartening.
He nodded. “Anything come back to you this afternoon?”
“Yes,” she responded, thankful for Who wasn’t lost, Who had never left her, even if she’d temporarily forgotten His Word.
“Really?” His eyes widened.
“God did.”
“Huh?”
“God did,” she repeated. “Well, sort of. I never actually forgot Him, I’d just forgotten the Bible. Now, I’m remembering verse after verse. I don’t remember how I know these verses or where I learned them, but I do know them.”
Vincent’s shoulders slumped. “That’s good, I guess.” His light blue eyes looked hollow.
“Yes, it’s very good,” she responded, still trying to figure him out. She’d only been around him for a few minutes throughout the day, but he seemed sad. Some moments he seemed jumpy and unsure and others he came across as cocky and awkward or angrily worried. Those qualities combined spoke of one unhappy with life.
“So … you remember anything else? Your name? Home? Anything?” He asked, looking at the baby now in her arms as she began rocking him.
“Unfortunately, no. Nothing else is coming to me. I’m certain at least, that Sydney is not my name because every time I hear it, I feel nothing. There’s no connection. I have to force myself to listen for the name, reminding myself that she is now me. Sometimes it takes a few seconds for it to register.”
“Understandable. You’ll probably be used to it soon enough.” He straightened. “You plan on staying until your memory comes back completely or have you given yourself a time limit on when to move on? You going to go ahead and head out, whether you have your memory or not?”
She looked at him curiously. Was he trying to get rid of her or was he just making conversation, not realizing how it came across?
“I haven’t been able to give it much thought. Right now, you, Nellie, Nicholas, Kelsey, Roberta, and the doctors I met today are the only people I know. I’m not able to look past that at the moment. It’s almost too much at once to take in and analyze.”
A yawn escaped, bringing out the wear and tear of the day. “I’m sorry, Vincent. It’s been a long day and my sleep deprivation is clouding my thought process.”
She leaned over, reaching for Walker’s playpen and carefully laid the sleeping boy down. Vincent watched her, wondering how much of what she said was truth. Had she really not thought about her next steps? She seemed awfully calm for someone who was found in the dark, hurt in the woods, without a memory. She acted pretty upset and scared this morning, but now, she’s … relaxed. Could she have possibly gotten her memory back and is just playing them? He blinked, pushing his suspicions to the back. She was tired, that much he could tell was truth. She yawned again and he took his cue.
“I’ll let you get some rest then. I’m sure I’ll see you soon. Good night, Sydney.” He stood, running a hand through his hair, and crossed the den to the front door. She grabbed the crutches and followed him.
“Good night, Vincent. And thank you for your help today.”
He nodded and walked out, hearing the click of the door lock behind him.
8:15 p.m.
Nicholas enjoyed spending the evening with his sister. He scolded himself for not making more of an effort. She’d struggled throughout her entire pregnancy, knowing that she’d have to raise Walker alone. He’d done as much as he could for her then, even volunteering to move in with her. She accepted all the help he offered except for that, stating she had to learn how to deal with the nights alone. She knew his staying with her would only be temporary.
But once she’d had his nephew, she seemed renewed somehow, stronger. Nellie put all her energy into her son, which told Nicholas he could start letting her go. He thought back over her excited reaction when he’d mentioned going to dinner and realized he had virtually ignored her while letting her go. He talked to her almost daily, but not in the depths she probably needed. He made a mental note to treat her to dinner, away from Walker, two or three times a month.
He grabbed a handful of popcorn, trying desperately to concentrate on the movie. Instead, Nicholas’ thoughts drifted to the conversation he’d had with his buddy from the police department. He’d stepped out and called him during the previews, hoping to hear some good news. Unfortunately, there’d been nothing to report. The deputies had combed the woods and found nothing out of the ordinary. No reports of missing women matching Sydney’s description had been filed. There were no findings or suspicions of any nature involving her. His friend promised to contact him if anything came up, but there wasn’t much more they could do other than keep an eye out. It’s possible her missing status hadn’t even been twenty-four hours yet.
The popcorn stuck in his throat as Nicholas thought of what the pretty, freckled faced woman was going through. He silently vowed to do everything he could to help her, even if all he could do was pray. For a bachelor, he was suddenly drowning in women trouble.
9:00 p.m.
Sydney decided to put a sleeping Walker to bed, ignoring the feeling that came over her when she was near Vincent. He seemed like two different people at times and it confused her. She wasn’t sure what to make of him just yet – or Doctor Mitchell. Thankfully Nicholas and his sister were easier to read.
The baby’s nursery was upstairs, next to the guest bedroom that would become hers for the time being. After Kelsey helped her get Walker upstairs, Sydney laid him on his back in the mahogany crib and wound the mobile above his head. Sports balls of all sorts turned in a circle as a sweet lullaby played softly. Walker didn’t move. He slept soundly, feeling safe in his familiar surroundings.
She handed Kelsey the baby monitor and turned out the light. Kelsey would continue to check on them both every twenty minutes, like clockwork.
After the day she’d had, Sydney decided she’d follow the baby’s lead, even if sleep came to her in a strange house. And even if she’d be awakened every so often. She sighed. What surroundings were safe and familiar to her? Did she have a house with a crib in it? Were there trees in her front yard, a swing set in the back? Was her house decorated in calming colors, like Nellie’s or did she gravitate towards bright, bold colors? Did she even live in a house? Maybe she lived in an apartment. Did she live alone, with her husband, or did she have a roommate who she carpooled to work with everyday? Surely, she didn’t still live with her parents. But then again, maybe she did.
The questions never eased up. They came, one after another, until her head hurt again. She stood at the entranceway to her bedroom, her temporary home. It was painted pale pink and had a single sized bed against the inner wall. All the furniture was white, girly looking. A short dresser and desk combination sat just beneath the window overlooking the front yard.
The furniture in the guest bedroom was simple and feminine. The larger dresser, adjacent to the shorter one, had a couple of drawers hanging awkwardly. Sydney pulled them out, straightened the metal track underneath, and slid them in properly. Nellie must have pushed the drawers in hurriedly, knocking them off their tracks. She sighed, entirely overwhelmed with the fatigue and unknowns of the day.
God, who am I? I know You know me. I know You love me. But that’s about all I know right now. I am so unbelievably tired, I can’t think straight. I’m trying hard to find something to be thankful for – though I am thankful, when I consider where I could be right now without Nellie and her brother. So, thank You for sending them to me. They’ve been amazingly kind.
Oh God, I’m sorry to complain, I really am, but this day … this day has been the longest lasting day. I’m tired because I’m tired and I’m tired because I’m confused. I feel like I’m walking in a dark tunnel, bumping into everything, not knowing which direction to go. Please, show me where to go, which path to take. Place a light at the end of the tunnel for me to follow. It doesn’t have to be a blinding light, just a small one – anything for me to grab on to. Help me to be strong and courageous, not to be terrified through all this.
I don’t know who I am, but You do. Help me to remember that. Thank You for being with me. No matter where I’m from or where I go, I know You’ll be there every confusing step of the way.
She knew her host would come in and check on her when she returned from her night out with Nicholas. She also knew that Nellie would have to play nursemaid during the night, waking Sydney every few hours. Those were part of the doctor’s orders concerning her concussion. She felt bad about that, but her new acquaintance was eager to help. She had a kind heart.
Thanks again for Nellie.
Sydney looked around the room. Nellie’s house may not be familiar, but it was safe. She fell on the bed, too tired to get under the covers. Sleep came immediately.