The Lotus Cross - Ray Anderson (thriller book recommendations txt) 📗

“Yes. Ancient treasures were buried along the caravan routes.”

“Interesting.” Charles placed the folder on the table and slid it toward Michael. “I want you to take the manuscript and the translated copy with you.”

Michael narrowed his eyes. “Really? Are you sure?”

“Absolutely.” Charles uncrossed his legs and put his hands on his knees. “I know you’ll take good care of it. I believe this is what my grandfather would have wanted, making sure the manuscript got into the right hands.”

“I appreciate your trust,” Michael responded.

Just then there was a boom somewhere outside and all the lights in the house went off.

“A transformer must have gone out in the storm,” Charles said in the dark.

Margaret called in from the kitchen; “I’ve got some candles in the drawer right here. I’ll bring them in.”

A boom of thunder followed by a bolt of lightning illuminated the room momentarily, giving an eerie snapshot of the two men sitting across from one another.

Margaret came in carrying two candles in small holders. She set them on the table. The light cast a warm glow into the room.

Charles came forward in his chair. “This reminds me of being a child and going up to the manor with my father to visit Grandmum. She still hadn’t warmed to the idea of electricity—or any modern conveniences, for that matter.”

“Have you ever been up to the manor?” Margaret said to Michael.

“No. I remember we talked about it a couple of times, but between Karen’s schedule and my schedule we never did find time to go up there.”

The light from the candle reflected in Charles’s glasses. “I’ve been meaning to get up there,” he said to Michael. “Maybe when you get back from Africa we can take a jaunt to visit the old place.”

“Yes, I’d enjoy that very much,” Michael said as he lit up the face on his cell phone. “Speaking of Africa, it’s getting late.”

“Won’t you be staying for tea?” Margaret asked as she turned to go into the kitchen.

“I have an early flight. I should really be going.” Michael stood up.

“Will you be gone long?” Charles eased himself out of his chair.

“Just a few days.” Michael picked up the folder.

Margaret came over and gave him a hug. “Take care of yourself.”

Even in the candlelight he could see the concerned look on her face. “I’ll be careful.”

They said their goodbyes and Michael left with the folder under his arm.

RAY ANDERSON is an ordained minister in the United Centers for Spiritual Living, an organization based on the teachings of Ernest Holmes. Throughout his life, he has studied philosophy and several religious faiths including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, and Judaism. He lives in Santa Rosa, California.

To learn more visit thelotuscross.com

Publication Date: 02-05-2014

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