Chapter two

As soon as we landed, Billy told us he would head to the rental kiosk while we collected the bags. Happy to be off the cramped plane, I stretched my arms high while I waited for my bag on the carousel. After we retrieved all our things, we met Billy outside where he was waiting with our new rented car. We handed off our bags to Billy then piled in the rental.

Billy told us the nearest hotel was only a few miles away. He suggested it would be better if we checked in to the hotel for the night and figured out where we wanted to start. He also suggested we map out different places where we think he would be and then check those places out in the morning. I wanted to start right away, but they were right, we needed to get settled in and figure everything out. Not to mention I was still feeling pretty weak and the long flight pretty much wiped me out.

On the way to the hotel, I gazed out the window at the wide stretch of land. I knew Ireland was beautiful, but I never expected it to be as breathtaking a view as this. I was in awe. I’ve seen pictures and heard stories, but nothing compares to the real thing. I relaxed back in my seat and took it all in. Committing everything I could to memory afraid I might not see it again.

About twenty minutes into the drive, we passed a large garden. I looked out the window watching all the exotic flowers whiz by my vision; Daises, Lilies, Roses, Forget-me-nots, Jasmine…Jasmine. Something in my head clicked. “Wait, stop the car,” I said. Billy kept driving. “Stop the car,” I said again.

“What?” Josie asked.

“Stop the car! Stop the car!” I shouted this time. Billy slammed on the brakes almost causing me to fly into the front seat. I bounced back against the rear cushion, jerked by my seatbelt. I frantically fidgeted with the latch trying to release myself from my restraints. Once free, I jumped out and ran over to the vast garden in front of me.

“Ella what is it?” Josie asked, joining me.

“I know this place,” I said, studying the way the flowers were strategically placed. The way the vines crawled up along the stone archway and over the fence.

“Wait what? How?” Cameron asked, finally getting out of the car.

“I’ve seen this before. In a dream.” I walked closer to the gate that led into the garden. I ran my fingers over the ivy that had ingested the door, pausing on