Grant through the hospital automatic doors. He had just finished a checkup on his wounds now healed and was anxious to get back outside. Waiting for him at the drop off and pick up area was Rourke and Estelle, who was driving a white Prius.

“Thanks for picking me up,” said Grant, opening the door and stepping in. “Did you get some food like I asked?”

Roruke handed a brown paper bag to Grant as put on his seat buckle. Grant grinned like a child who had just received a holiday present. Inside the bag were two burgers wrapped in paper.

“The hospital food court had a Sizzle House,” said Rourke. “Estelle checked the customers' reviews. Four out of five stars.”

Grant unwrapped the first burger as the car moved out of the pickup area and onto the road. The burger was slightly wet from the ketchup and mayonnaise. Grant inspected the toppings which consisted of lettuce, grilled onion rings, pickles, tomato, and bacon. He took a bite and closed his eyes in response to the overwhelming bliss.

“Christ,” Grant muttered. “This is a fucking good burger.”

“Glad you like it,” said Estelle. “It was eight dollars for each burger.”

“I’d gladly pay ten bucks,” said Grant, speaking in between chews. “Mmm.”

“We’ll be on time for the debut of the painting,” said Estelle.

It had been two weeks since they had left Nevada. They had left in a hurry after getting a call from Jim the investigative reporter who was keeping the Grace of the Fountain safe.

“A young lady just crawled out of the painting,” he had said over the phone. “Don’t worry it’s not another demon. She’s in a lot of shock but I think she’s going to be ok.”

Without the demon to trap her, Gabriella had been set free from the painting. Her image however remained on the artwork effectively turning it into a regular, harmless painting. Franklin’s family took Gabriella in and promised not to report her to the authorities. The incident involving a train bound for Las Vegas was explained as a terrorist attack. Jim also promised to not write a peice that would expose the truth behind the Grace of the Fountain.

“You’ll hear from me if you do,” Grant old Jim.

“Don’t worry,” Jim had replied. “I’m not a cold hearted bastard. That girl’s been trapped in that painted world for a century. She deserves happiness.”

Franklin had spent the past two weeks rehabilitating Gabriella and explaining the modern world to her. There was much to catch up on. With Franklin’s approval Grant had decided to donate the painting to the Trioli University campus art museum. Now they were on the way to the debut party.

Grant nearly choked as he wolfed down the second burger. “Damn, I forgot to remind you to get a soda. Now I’m thirsty.”

“We’re almost at the university,” said Estelle. “I’m sure they got drinks at the party.”

Upon stepping out the car alongside his companions, Grant noticed that he was severely underdressed. While he wore a t-shirt and khaki board shorts, Rourke wore a dark blue blazer and cream white dress shirt. Rourke’s slim fit pants wrapped around his toned legs. Estelle wore a short black dress with a v neck.

Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

“I forgot this was a formal event,” said Grant with a sigh.

“I got a ties in the back,” Rouke offered.

“No, don't worry about it.”

Dozens of guests were already outside the art museum which was located right beside the university. The cafeteria staff had been repurposed for the evening to set up tables and chairs outside the museum. Several workers were mixing together fruit and soda to make a large bowl of iced punch. Grant grumbled to himself as he failed to spot anyone not dressed formally. He looked out of place and disrespectful.

“Mr. Foreman!” boomed a plump little man in a tuxedo, rushing out from the crowd of conversing guests. He stopped in front of Grant and shook his hand furiously. “Once again your contribution to our museum is most appreciated. Absolutely spectacular work!”

“Thank you Professor Henning,” said Grant. “I know that the Taiping artifacts alone have drawn many visitors since its debut.”

“And now this mysterious lost artifact has found its way to our humble little museum! The guests and students are so very excited to see this painting. Many of the art students here couldn’t believe it when they heard the lost Grace of the Fountain had been found and donated to our school. As the head of the art department and the manager of our museum, I must say that you are without a doubt our greatest contributor. You have certainly made your mark in history young man.”

“Your flatter me,” said Grant, a little overwhelmed by the compliments hurled his way. “I’m just happy to put this place on the map so to speak.”

“Fair enough,” said Professor Henning heartily. “Well enjoy this party that you’ve made possible. The swedish meatballs are quite delicious.”

What that the art professor bounced away to speak to a well group of men.

Grant pushed his way to the entrance of the museum and the doorman let him and his companions in. At the back of the museum hung the Grace of the Fountain in a heavy security glass case. The area around it was roped off to prevent people from getting too close and a young couple holding hands as already there, observing the painting.

“Hello Franklin, said Grant, approaching the couple.

Franklin wheeled around and beamed. He looked healthier, stronger even. “Grant it’s always good to see you. Trip just called to congratulate us.”

Beside Franklin stood Gabriella who looked just like her portrait except in modern clothing.

“Looks like you are fitting right in,” said Estelle, drawing up alongside Grant. “I know all of this must be strange for you.”

“I-It is,” said Gabriella. Her voice was soothingly sweet. “But Franklin and his family have been very kind to me. Everything I knew from the old world is gone. But at least I have a second chance.”

Franklin squeezed Gabriella’s hand. “You’ve become a celebrity already. Thousands will want to see this painting.”

Rourke cleared his throat. “So, the two of you are together then?”

Grant noticed Estelle stopping on Rourke’s foot.

“Well yes,” Franklin said confidently. Gabriella blushed furiously. “Yes, we are together. Gabriella will live with us from now on. My mother is already looking into some schools that she could get into.”

“If only they knew how special you are,” said Grant. “The girl out of time. But its best this secret stays between us.”

Franklin nodded. “Yes, that is for the best.”

“May I have your attention please!” came the microphone amplified voice of Professor Henning from the font of the museum.

“Looks like they’ll be coming in,” said Grant. “Let’s join the tour.”

Franklin and Gabriella stepped away from the painting and made their way to the front door with Rourke tagging behind. Estelle stayed behind to speak with Grant.

“I’ve been paid by your cousin Sophia,” said Estelle. “Tomorrow I go back home.”

Grant nodded. He was sad to see her go. “We make a good team.”

“Yeah we do,” said Estelle. “But I’ve had enough of dangerously lethal adventures for now. Maybe we’ll work together again. Sophia has my number.”

“Will do,” said Grant. “I hope to work with you again as well. But for now would it be too forward to ask you to be my date tonight?”

Estelle grinned and put her left arm under his. “That sounds just fine.”

Grant took one last long look at the painting before stepping away with Estelle. As the tour group swelled into the museum, Grant joined with the crowd. Clearly wanting to save the best for last, Professor Henning began the tour by showing some ceramics dating back to the 19th century.