Free Getting Wet by Zenina Masters Page B

memories would have to haunt her, and she would have to look for a man who stirred her half as much as the mysterious man in the mask. If she found anyone who ratcheted her systems higher, she might just burst into flame.
    Rayna reached into her purse and pulled out a business card. “If you are sure of this, here you go.”
    Augusta took the card between two fingers and nodded. “Thank you. It might take my savings, but this is a chance I have to take. If there is a man out there for me, I have to put myself somewhere where he can find me.”
    Rayna grinned, “Well, in that case, since you are exhibiting such excellent common sense, I am only too happy to pay for your trip to your future.”
    Augusta protested, “I can’t.”
    “You can. You can pay it forward. I do this for you now and once you find your guy, you can help someone else get to the Crossroads.” Rayna smiled. “I can afford it. The shop is doing well, as you no doubt know.”
    Augusta nodded, “And I am delighted for your success, but I am not a parasite.”
    Rayna scowled. “Of course not. I leaned on your during our entire lives. This once, you can lean on me. Project Spotted Horse is doing well, and I want a little otter cross for my child to play with.”
    Laughing, Augusta sighed, “As long as it is within your own interests to send me, I will go. And, congratulations.”
    Rayna held her hand up. “It isn’t certain yet. It is just a feeling, but I don’t want you too far behind, Gusty.”
    “This isn’t the race of the ovaries.” Augusta flicked the card in her fingers.
    “No, but if you want motivation and a reason to accept my help, this is it.” Rayna sat back and grinned.
    Augusta fished in her purse until she found her phone. “I will accept that rationale. Now, does she prefer to be addressed as Kris or Krisia?”
     
    Three days, a flurry of explanations and a quick overhaul of her wardrobe later and Augusta was stepping through the portal to the Crossroads.
    Rayna had briefed her on the guardians of the portal. Augusta smiled, “Hello, Teal.”
    “Welcome to the Crossroads, Augusta Samuels.” The woman with the cascade of pale hair smiled brightly.
    “Thank you. I think I am ready for whatever the Crossroads can throw at me.” She stepped off the arrival area and moved to follow Teal.
    “I will give you a quick tour, and then, you will be on your own until you find someone. Rayna was most enthusiastic about your arrangements. You will be situated at the Open Heart Bed and Breakfast. Have you ever met a djinn before?” Teal chattered on as she took Augusta’s arm to lead her out into the evening air.
    “Oh, somehow, I thought it would be perpetual daylight.”
    “That might drive us insane and many of the staff here are fairly near to it. We keep a regular day and night schedule with pseudo moon and stars watching over us.” Teal walked easily through the streets.
    Men and women walked alone or in couples. There were few, if any, groups larger than two.
    “Don’t people clump up here?”
    “Not usually. It is counterproductive. Ladies gather together for support and defense out in the world; here, they have to put themselves out where the men can find them. You have to let your beast rule.”
    Augusta wrinkled her nose. “My beast isn’t very bossy.”
    “Most otters aren’t. The tour will include a trip to the pond. I think you will enjoy it. Many semi-aquatic species gather there late in the evening.” Teal smiled. “Species like mine enjoy it during the day.”
    “Swan?” Rayna had mentioned it, and Augusta tested it.
    “Indeed. Now, this is the general store, there is the café, the restaurant and the new nail salon. Down this road are the hostels which are divided by gender and species type.” Teal waved her arm and pointed quickly. “The Crossed Star bar is down that way. It is the hub of activity for the Crossroads.”
    The guardian walked Augusta down another lane filled with statuesque Victorian