IT’S OVER NOW

Chapter One

 

The sun was shining brightly and the rays were casting golden highlights in the blonde hair of Alexandria Brantley. Her husband Walt was looking at her adoringly and said, “Your life will probably be so boring after the busy last few weeks you have had,” he commented as he was preparing to leave for work.

“Oh no, I still have so much to do. Our new home will be completed soon, and I still have so much shopping to do,” Alexandria corrected him. “We do want to be moved in by Labor Day week-end.

     “We went furniture shopping Saturday. The drapes and carpeting have been picked out, what else will we need?” he questioned.

     “Dear, you seem to be forgetting that the dishes, linens, and all the things we are now using will stay in the apartment. Once we move this will be rented out as a furnished apartment. We need to buy all the essentials,” she reminded him.

     Walt smiled and teasingly asked, “Between deciding on what color towels and wash cloths you buy, if you think of it will you buy me a couple of pairs of socks. Mine are full of holes and are rubbing blisters on my feet.”

     “I will make that my priority. You sure are hard on socks. Why don’t you cut your toenails?” she asked.

     “Lieutenant Swartz said his wife cuts his toe nails for him,” Walt hinted “It’s is getting late, I need to get to work.”

     Alex walked to the car with him and as she kissed him goodbye and said, “Have a good day love, eat lunch out, and I will cook you a special dinner, and if you play your cards right, I may just trim your toenails later.”

     Walt looked at her and said, “The day you came into my life was the best day ever,” and walked out the door to go to the police station.

     Alex got a faraway look in her eye as she sat back down at the table for a second cup of coffee. She was thinking to herself, “Yes, I remember the first day I met Walt. He picked me up from the train station and gave me a ride here to meet with Aunt Elizabeth. Mary Beth was missing. She hadn’t thought of Mary Beth in sometime.” She finished drinking her coffee, cleared the dishes from the table and walked over to the telephone. She picked up the receiver and said, operator please connect me with 87651. She listened to the ringing of the telephone and finally heard a “Hello.”

     “Good morning Marie, it is Alex. Do you have anything special planned for today?” she asked.

     “Not really,” Marie replied, “what’s up?”

     “I have so much shopping to do and thought perhaps you would go with me. I sure could use the company,” she answered.

     “I would enjoy that. We haven’t seen each other in such a long time. What time will you pick me up?” Marie asked.

     “In half an hour, if that is convenient for you,” Alex replied.

     “That will be perfect. I will want you to come inside for a moment. Dad has made many changes in the building, and my younger sister Virginia is now living with us. Just park out front and come on in. Dad is remodeling the first room,” Marie explained.

     Alex hurriedly washed the dishes and left them to drain. She picked up her purse and hurried out the door. As she started the car she remembered the reason she became friends with Marie was to satisfy Aunt Elizabeth. She had made a classy lady out of Marie, who at one time was a prostitute. Now Marie was her best female friend. She pulled up in front of Marie’s Place and thought to herself, No one would ever think that at one time this building was The Green Door. She could hear the pounding of the hammer as she walked up the steps to the front porch. She opened the door and hollered, “Hello.”

     The room got quiet and Mr. Taylor said, “Good morning Alex. Marie said you were coming over. How are the plans for your new home coming along?” he asked.

     “Just great,” she answered excitedly, “we will be moving in soon.”

     “I wish the two of you much happiness. After what you have done for this town, you deserve to have a wonderful life together.”

     “Thank you sir,” Alex answered and at that time Marie and her sister entered the room.

     “Hello Alex, this is my sister Virginia. We call her Ginger,” Marie said calmly.

     Alex was spellbound as she replied, “Ginger, welcome to Baltimore. I understand you are going to college here.”

     “Thank you. Baltimore University is noted for offering higher education to females. I plan on studying law,” she continued.

“You have certainly set high standards for yourself. It is my belief that a person can do anything they want to, if they want it badly enough to work for it,” Alex remarked and said, “Marie, intestinal fortitude must run in the family.”

Mr. Taylor laughed and said, “Unfortunately my girls have had to work very hard for what they have and want. None of my girls are afraid of hard work.”

“I am sure they aren’t. You have done a wonderful job with Marie, and I feel sure the other girls are just as resilient. I am looking forward to meeting all of your girls,” she added.

“Let me show you how daddy has remodeled the place,” Marie said and ushered her into the dining area. A wall had been knocked out making one large room. The wall between the kitchen and dining room had been cut down and made into a counter top. “We are converting to a bed and breakfast,” Marie explained.

“An awesome idea,” Alex agreed. “Out of curiosity, do your other sisters resemble you or Ginger?”

“I am the only one that doesn’t have the dark hair and eyes,” Ginger answered.

“Ginger you resemble my dear departed cousin, Mary Beth. The same size, coloring and even some of the same mannerisms, don’t you think Marie?” Alex asked.

“You would notice it more than I. Perhaps we should be leaving, I will need to be home to cook dinner,” Marie answered as she picked up her purse and motioned for Alex to follow her out.  “I’ll be home soon Dad,” and the two walked out to the car.

Once inside the car Alex started to speak, “Marie I apologize if I offended you before. I know the subject of Mary Beth brings back so many unhappy memories for you. I did not stop to think.”

“I am wondering what Otto will think when he meets her. I am afraid I have fallen head over heels for that big lug. I think he loves me too, and truthfully, I have been expecting him to propose. When we first started dating we made a pact that we would not have sex during our dating period. I no longer want to feel like a prostitute, and he and Mary Beth had a satisfying sexual relationship. Please don’t think I am silly,” she begged.

“No, Marie, you are the most honest person I know. I know how you feel. I promised myself I would stay a virgin until I married, and I did,” Alex answered. “I just had an idea. Let’s shop for a couple of hours and then go to the diner for lunch. I haven’t seen Hilda in sometime.”

“If Otto is there, perhaps you could prepare him for meeting Ginger. I want to see his reaction,” suggested Marie.

“It will probably be better if he is told of their resemblance ahead of time,” Alex agreed as she pulled into a parking space in front of the dry goods store. “We have everything for the house but the basics. Perhaps we should shop for the bedroom items, then bathroom essentials, go to lunch and then shop for the kitchen supplies. Please don’t let me forget to buy Walt new socks.”

“Then buy the socks first. I am not sure I should ask, but how is the Grigsby family getting along?” Marie asked.

“You do know he resigned from the police force. His Aunt gave him her farm, and that will keep him busy. Their baby is due any day now. His little boy is so precious. I hope Walt and I are blessed with many children,” Alex confessed as they walked over to the men’s department to buy the socks for Walt.

Once the purchase was made they walked over to the bedding department. I plan on buying a solid color and a print sheet set and pillow cases for two bedrooms. The other two can wait for a while. Two sets each should be fine, don’t you think?” Alex was asking Marie for advice.

“I would think so. You will also need pillows, a light blanket, a quilt, a bedspread with curtains to match and the curtain rods,” Marie reminded her.

“I am glad you came with me. I did not think of pillows, or curtain rods,” she admitted. “Let’s buy the bedding first, take it to the car and come back for the spreads and curtains.”

“What color are your walls?” Marie asked.

“Today I will buy for the one with white and one with light green walls,” she responded.

Marie picked up a set of sheets that were white with small purple flowers. “I like this set, what do you think?” she asked.

“That’s a definite. Find the pillowcases to match and I will find a set of a solid color I like,” she said picking up a light purple set, with pillowcases to match.

Marie had already picked out a set of light green plaid, and a light green with white flowers, “What do you think?” she asked.

“Perfect, at least now we know what color of spread and curtains to look for,” Alex agreed. “I just thought of something. I can’t buy curtains for the kitchen until I measure the windows. Let’s buy the curtain rods and then take a ride out to our place. Earl can put the curtain rods up for us when he has a few minutes to spare.”

“I think that is a great idea. I have no idea where you will be moving to,” Marie agreed.

“Now if you can hold all these sheets and pillow cases, I will pick out the curtain rods, and we will be on our way,” Alex suggested.

Marie just smiled, remembering what a true friend Alex had ben to her, as she followed her to the cashier counter. There was no one waiting in line, so Alex was checked out quickly.

“Now, I can carry a few of those packages,” Alex commented as they went outside to the car. Alex slid in under the steering wheel, waiting for Marie to go around to the other side of the car.

Once inside she commented, “Alex we are certainly lucky weather wise. It is an absolute gorgeous day.

“Yes, I agree. The sky is so blue and those fluffy white clouds floating by makes me feel so relaxed and that all is right in the world,” Alex commented.

“I have never been on this road before,” Marie commented. “The farm buildings are so beautiful.”

“The next place we pass will be where the Grigsby’s live. I am proud that you have no ill feelings toward Grigsby. That alone shows what a compassionate person you are,” Alex commented.

“How could I?” she asked, “He was forced into doing what he did. It is water over the bridge, so please for my sake, put it out of your mind, I have.”

Alex drove a little slower as she passed by the house. Danny was in the front yard playing with Sparkey, and Patricia was sitting in a lounge chair shelling peas. She did not look up as the car passed by. Alex drove a little faster and smiled as she looked at Marie. She was as excited as a child seeing farm animals for the first time.

 Alex pulled into the drive way and spotted Uncle Earl. He was transplanting flowers near her house. She honked the horn as they got out of the car.

Uncle Earl stood up, and started walking toward the girls. He had a broad smile on his work worn face. “Alex, I am so glad to see you, and you are certainly traveling in beautiful company. Hello Marie, and welcome to our part of the world.”

“Thank you Earl. I can’t believe how peaceful it is here,” she answered modestly.

“Alex, I have so much to tell you. The carpeting has been laid, and I have the drapery rods up, but the drapes were so wrinkled I took them to the tailor shop to get pressed. I took the liberty of installing the hardware on the outside doors. I didn’t like the idea of having a stranger know what key you used to get into your house. Let me show you how nice everything looks.”

“That sounds like a great idea, but shouldn’t we carry some of our packages in with us?” she asked.

“Later. I have a big box we can store everything in. Let’s check out the house and then I will set the box up for you,” he was eager for her to see how beautiful her new home was. He led the way up to the front door, took out a ring of keys, selected one and opened the door. He stepped aside and let them enter first. 

Alex and Marie stood inside the door and looked around. Alex walked over and stood in front of the fire place. The fire place was large and made from stone. The mantle had a glossy finish. The hearth had been made from matching stone. Alex immediately visualized Walt and her cuddling in front of the fireplace.

Marie had wandered into the dining room. “Alex, come quickly,” she called.

Alex walked over and joined her. She was standing in front of a huge window overlooking the side yard. A mother deer and her fawn were standing at the edge of the pond, drinking.

Earl joined them saying, “I thought perhaps you would place the dining room table here. A vast flower garden will be planted outside this window.”

Alex looked at Marie and explained, “My Father and Uncle Randolph drew up the plans for the house and yard. They have a detailed description of how and where to plant the flowers, shrubs and trees. I actually feel it is too extravagant, but the house is a wedding present for us, so I will consider us fortunate to have it. Actually, I consider myself so lucky to have Uncle Earl to help make all my dreams come true.”

“Aw shucks, you know how I feel about the two of you. I consider the two of you my kids I never was lucky enough to have,” Earl said, shuffling his feet.

“I think it is a win win situation all around. Alex, I am happy for you, and so proud you consider me a friend,” Marie commented.

“Come on in and let me show you the kitchen,” Earl said leading the way in.

“That reminds me, we need to measure the windows for curtains,” Alex said as she walked into the kitchen.

“I will get my yardstick,” Earl said leaving the room.

Alex walked over and started opening the cupboard doors. The shelves had been neatly lined with a white oil cloth. Opening a drawer, she noticed they had also been lined.

Earl walked in just as Alex was closing a drawer. “I hope you don’t mind that I lined the shelves and drawers. I just want to make moving in as easy as I can for you.”

“On the contrary Uncle Earl. I think you are next to the most wonderful and considerate man I know,” Alex gushed.

“Since you put it like that I will show you what else I took the liberty of doing.” He walked over and opened the door to the pantry, showing shelves lined with white oil cloth. “Now take a gander at this,” he said opening the door next to the pantry door. Inside was a wringer washing machine, set up with tubs for rinsing. He opened an outside door and said, “All you have to do is step outside and hang the clothes on the line.” He had the line connected to a clothes pole with a pulley by the top of the door. A bag filled with clothes pins hung within arm’s reach.

Alex was overwhelmed. “Uncle Earl, I don’t know how I will ever repay you.”

“I am not looking for pay. Alex you and that man of yours is the nearest I’ve got to kin. Just say it is okay for me to continue doing what I’m doing, and I will be a happy man,” he answered. “Now let’s measure for those curtains.”

Alex pullet a tablet and pen from her purse and said, “I am ready anytime you are.”

“I don’t mean to interrupt, but while you have the tablet out add an iron and ironing board to your list,” Marie said smiling.

“Little lady, you have such a sweet smile, if I wasn’t so old, I would come a courting,” Earl surprised her by saying.

“What a nice thing to say. May I call you Uncle Earl also?” Marie asked.

“Of course. Now I forgot what I measured, I will have to measure again,” he remarked.

Alex and Marie exchanged glances smiling, then Alex started to write down the numbers Earl called out to her.

“Thanks Earl. We will need to leave now. I have so much shopping to do. We will be stopping in again in a couple of days,” Alex said as she kissed him on the cheek.

“I’ll walk out with you and bring the bundles in the house for safe keeping,” Uncle Earl said. “Young lady I do hope you come out for another visit. It gets kind of lonely out here,” Earl said to Marie.

“Thank you Earl, I hope to,” she replied.

“In a few days you will never feel lonesome again, I promise,” Alex said as they walked to the car. Once inside the car, Alex started the engine and was driving down the road.

“I am getting hungry. Perhaps we could get a bite to eat before we finish shopping,” Marie suggested.

“Marie, did you hear my stomach growl?” Alex asked. “Let’s go to the diner. Perhaps Otto will be there.”

“Earl is such a nice man,” Marie commented.

“He is one in a million. I feel so blessed that we will have him living on the property with us. I know once we have a baby he will spoil him rotten,” Alex confided.

“I wonder if you realize how fortunate you are.” Marie asked.

“Yes, I do. The first thing I do every morning when I wake up is to thank god for his blessings,” Alex answered as she pulled into the parking lot of The Home Plate. The two got out of the car and walked inside. Otto wasn’t there so they sat at a table near the front.

Letitia walked over and said, “Well hello, I haven’t seen the two of you lately. May I take your order, or do you want a menu?”

“I will have a hot ham on rye, no cheese and a little mustard, French fries and an iced tea,” Alex spoke up.

“I will have the same, but with cheese and no mustard,” Marie said.

“Coming right up,” Letitia smiled and walked into the kitchen.

Soon Hilda came out beaming. “It is so good to see you girls. How is life treating you?” she asked.

“I couldn’t be happier,” Alex replied.

“I know Marie is making a great life for herself. Her Daddy stops in occasionally and is always bragging on her,” Hilda confided. “I need to get back to the kitchen, enjoy your meal.”

“Daddy plans on getting the food for our bed and breakfast here. Hilda has a marvelous catering service,” Marie said.

“Yes, I remember,” Alex was thinking back to Mary Beth’s memorial service and the meal after that Hilda had catered.

Letitia came out with their plates of food, and started placing the plates on the table.

“Has Otto been in?” Alex asked.

“He and Stubby were in earlier. They were expecting a tanker to come in around noon,” she explained as she placed the bill on the table. “If you want anything else, please let me know,” and she walked back into the kitchen.

Marie and Alex were quietly eating their sandwich when the sound of breaking dishes got their attention. They looked up to se LHung standing in the doorway of the kitchen, broken dishes on the floor staring at the door.

Alex followed his gaze in time to see a very large man open the door and walk out. He had a peg Leg.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I am happy to announce that my next book, It's Over Now, is being released by Rebel Ink Press Sunday, November 17th. The first chapter will be published next week. This book is the third in my trilogy, Why Mary Beth Why, Elizabeth's Revenge and it's Over Now. I hope you enjoy reading it.

The first chapter of Elizabeth's Revenge was entered September 17th. Perhaps you would also enjoy reading the first chapters of my other books. Just click on the dates.

It has been some time since I wrote. do invite everyone that visits my blogsite to read the first chapter of my books. I hope to add another book to the list, but Rebel Ink Press is slow in coming across with a contract.

Hello, tonight I am wondering how many of you have ever had to deal with arthritis. The arthritis I have in my hands and right arm is very painful. Since I do not want to put chemicals in my body, I must control it by my diet. I feel sure I can accomplish this. After all, I lowered my cholesterol and I control my type 2 diabetes with my diet, so surely I can do this also. I will start by eliminating foods that make me feel stiff or ache after I consume it. I know I must start by eliminating ice cream. I am a very picky eater, but I can, and I will do this.

I may be 78 years old, but today I started to think. I learned how to do things like cook, sew, bake, wash clothes, iron, clean house, and how to take good care of babies, but there are so many things I never learned to do. I am afraid of the water, so I never learned to swim or ski. Oh how I would love to go scuba diving. I never learned to roller skate, or to dance. I never learned to play a musical instrument or to take voice lessons. One thing I would love to do, but I know I will never get to do is travel. I have dreamed of going to Scotland, and to travel the United States, but that is what it was--a dream. I chose the life I have, and there is no turning back. God knew what I needed, a good husband and a house full of kids. I have led a full life, and would not trade it for any one else's'. Life is good.

I have been lax about updating my blog. Guess old age is slowing me down. I have sent my latest book to Rebel Ink Press. No contract as of now. This will be the third in my series of Why Mary Beth Why, Elizabeth's Revenge and the title of this book is currently It's Over Now. I am not sure that is the title I will stay with. I may change it by the time I send for the copyright. I promise to keep you posted.

Elizabeth’s Revenge

Chapter One

 

Alex took her seat on the train with apprehension. She hated to leave Elizabeth, but knew taking Mary Beth’s body home for a proper burial was her responsibility. She sat the basket of food; Lhung had given to her at the train station, by her side, closed her eyes and started to pray.” My dear Lord God, Oh, please give me the strength and wisdom to get through this ordeal. She felt the jerk of her body starting to sway meaning that the train had started to move and her journey was underway. This was not the way she had planned on spending the Memorial Day weekend.

She felt the movement of someone sitting down in the seat next to her. She kept her eyes closed, not wanting to start up a conversation with a stranger at this time. This was a different emotion for Alex. As a rule she loved meeting people and enjoyed sharing stories with them. This morning she was feeling sad. Was it this sad task she had undertaken, or was it because she had become fond of Walt?

She was remembering their previous evening. He had taken her to a nice restaurant for dinner. He looked so handsome, and boyish, when he picked her up. He had the appearance of a man that would look the same at age fifty, as he did at twenty. She found it hard to believe that he was older than she. After they had finished eating dessert, Walt said, “Alex, I have enjoyed every minute I have had the privilege of spending with you.” Then he asked, “Would you consider going back to my apartment with me, I hate for this night to end.”

“Walt, I feel the same way, but I am going to have a grueling day tomorrow. I think I should go to bed early, and if we went to your apartment, you may take advantage of me in my moment of weakness,” she teased him.

“What if I promise to be on my good behavior? I just feel the need to kiss you and hold you close. I have never felt like this about a female before,” Walt confessed.

“Since you put it like that, how can I refuse, just remember, I am a virgin, and I intend to stay that way until I am married. I have always been taught that virginity is the best gift a wife can give to her husband,” said Alex.

Walt tried not to show his surprise and said, “If you will feel more comfortable, I will take you back to the apartment. Elizabeth is probably still at the hospital with Randolph, this way, we will both have to be on our good behavior, not knowing when she will be returning,” compromised Walt, and added, “I don’t think I will drive too fast. I don’t want this night to end.”

“Well, if you want a couple of kisses, you had better speed it up. Visiting hours at the hospital will be over soon,” Alex reminded him.

The two raced up the stairs and into the apartment like a couple of teenagers. Alex took out her house key; Walt took it and opened the door for her.

As they entered the room Walt noticed the luggage by the door and asked, “How long will you be gone?”

Alex stood in front of him, put her arms around him and said, “Shouldn’t that have been, when will you be back?” and kissed him lightly on the lips.

Walt drew her body close to his and held her very close. He kissed her passionately. Alex wasn’t sure where he learned to kiss, but she found it exciting. She could feel the hardness of his body, and knew he was enjoying it also. They heard steps in the hallway, and went over to the couch and set down. They both knew that coming back to the apartment was the right decision.

Elizabeth entered the room followed by Otto. Elizabeth said, “Alex, I am glad you are still here. I have exciting news. We were at the hospital visiting Randolph and he asked Otto to teach me to drive. He said that since we will be spending so much time here, we would need our own source of transportation. He said once I learn to drive, he will buy us a car before he goes back to Washington. We were remembering when he taught you to drive a car.”

“Well, perhaps he got the scare he needed. Have you asked the doctor how much longer he will be in the hospital?” Alex asked.

“I will see him tomorrow morning. He is going to ride to the train station in the ambulance with us.” She walked over to Walt, wiped the lipstick off his lips and said, “I see you two had a good time.”

Walt smiled sheepishly and said, “Yes, we enjoyed ourselves. But don’t worry about it. I was a perfect gentleman.

Elizabeth went on with “Randolph wants to stay in the apartment a few days before he goes to Washington. He wants your permission to make arrangements for any repairs and renovations he feels are necessary. He wants to start with adding showers to each bathroom, and having a telephone installed for us. The showers will be installed in our bathroom first, and then Margaret’s. Please write and sign a paper that he has your permission his mind. Oh yes, and he said at no cost to you.”

Alex knew immediately where the money was coming from, but didn’t want to upset Elizabeth’s applecart. What a wonderful way to invest the money from Mary Beth’s life insurance policies.

The train braked for a stop, causing Alex to jerk forward. A man’s hand reached over and helped her straighten up again. She opened her eyes and turned around to thank him, and to her surprise found Michael Phillips sitting next to her. “Thank you for your help Michael, I had no idea you were sitting next to me,” Alex said to him.

“You were so deep in your own thoughts, there was no way I was going to disturb you,” Michael replied, “however, at one point you were smiling.

“I refuse to divulge too much information to you. I don’t want to find my name in the papers tomorrow,” was her comeback.

“After all, I am one of the top reporters on the East Coast. I didn’t get that reputation by being diffident,” Michael bragged.

“If I had known we would be traveling together, I would have brought a dictionary along,” Alex teased.

“Perhaps we could make a deal, and try to enjoy the company of each other for the rest of the trip. I solemnly swear I will not divulge one word about you, or anything you have said to me, if you share your basket lunch with me,” bribed Michael.

“It’s a deal. I am afraid I have gained a little weight; I have really enjoyed the food here. Lhung is a great cook,” Alex confided. She opened the basket, and the two sorted through the sandwiches and snacks.

“Out of curiosity, Michael, where are you headed?” Alex asked.

“I am not really sure. I thought I would tag along with you. Just to get some input on the feelings of the people regarding Randolph’s stay in congress. It is 1926, will this publicity help or hinder him? I am sure the public is waiting for a press release on his health condition, that kind of thing,” Michael replied.

“I am afraid your trip is going to be in vain. Elizabeth is planning on giving a press release concerning Randolph’s health issues tonight,” Alex said. Their conversation was interrupted by the noise a young boy was making running up the aisle.

He stopped at their seat, looked up at Michael and said,” I am hungry, will you give me something to eat?”

Michael answered, “It is not my food. You will have to ask the young lady.”

He stuck his tongue out at Michael, smiled sweetly at Alex and said, “You have the most beautiful eyes, may I have something to eat, please?”

Alex replied, “Before I say yes, I will need your Mother’s permission.”

A woman came walking up the aisle, and in an agitated voice said, “Mark, I have been looking for you.”

Mark answered, “I am hungry, and this pretty lady said she would give me something to eat, if it was okay with you.”

She apologized, “I am so sorry he has been a nuisance. Come on Mark, let’s go sit down.

“Wait a minute please. I have ample food; may I at least share a portion of it with you?” Alex asked.

“That would be very generous of you. I am afraid I left in such a hurry, I didn’t think about food. My father is on his death bed, and I just want to get home in time to tell him that I love him,” the lady said.

This touched Alex. She handed the lady the basket and said, “Please take this food, we have had our fill.”

The woman gratefully accepted the basket, managed a smile and said “May the sun shine brightly over you.” She took Mark by the hand, and walked down the aisle with him. Mark turned around, blew Alex a kiss, and once again stuck his tongue out at Michael.

Michael slumped down in his seat and said, “Kids are brats.”

Alex replied with “Michael, were you born an adult? You are acting sort of childish right now.”

Michael sat upright in his seat and said, “Alex, I have admired you for many years. I have never gotten up the nerve to talk with you, and now that I have, the right words won’t come out of my mouth.”

Alex responded with,” Blame it on our professions. It seems as though I make the news without trying, and you earn your paycheck by covering the news. Suppose we complete our trip by pretending to be two different people. I will be a happy schoolgirl, on her way home for summer vacation. Please call me Lexia. What role will you feel comfortable playing, Michael?”

“Lexia, my name is Drew. At this moment I am unemployed. I am trying to find myself, and make my niche in the world. The generosity you showed by sharing your food was so humane. You must be a very caring person,” answered Michael.

“Did you notice the sadness in her facial expression? Her eyes looked like she had been crying for hours. Anyone would have done the same thing,” Alex answered.

“Have you ever thought that perhaps crying is a good thing? Perhaps tears cleanse the soul,” Michael replied.

“No, but you are probably right. We do feel much better after we cry. Now if you don’t mind, I think we have played this silly game long enough. I also have to remember to pack Elizabeth more clothing and send to her. I am going to take a nap. If I snore, please wake me,” Alex requested as she leaned her head backward and closed her eyes.

Michael took out his pen and paper and started to write. Soon Alex was fast asleep. Her head had tilted to the side, and her body was slumped in her seat. Michael put away his pen and paper, turned his body and adjusted Alex’s head so it was resting comfortably on his chest. He put his arm lightly around her shoulder, and Alex continued to sleep for the rest of the journey.

The conductor walked up the aisles yelling, “All off at Decatur.” Alex awakened with a start. She jumped up and started to smooth her hair.

“You look fine,” Michael said, “I will help you with your things,” and he picked up her jacket, as he gathered his personal belongings. He stepped aside to let her walk down the aisle first.

As they stepped from the train, Michael noticed a large gathering of people at the station. He spoke to Alex in a soft voice saying, “Relax, today I am not a reporter, I am your friend. Not one word from me to the newspapers.”

“My special thanks to you dear friend, and your chest made a very comfortable pillow. I needed the rest. When I hear from Elizabeth, you will be the person I break the news to.

Alex was greeted by her mother and father. They hugged and watched as the coffin was removed from the train. Mr. Gray, the undertaker, only had two men with him, so Michael walked over and volunteered his services to help carry the casket. Once it was loaded inside the ambulance, he walked over to where Alex was standing. She was holding his camera.

Alex handed Michael the camera saying, “I took the liberty of snapping a picture as the casket was being loaded. Use it. I did not have the right to ask you not to write any lines about this event. It is news, and the public has the right to read about it. I am sorry I was thinking so selfishly. “

“Thank you Alex, but only since you gave me the okay, I will use tact,” Michael said as he picked up his baggage and headed toward the car that was waiting for him.

The ambulance pulled out of the driveway first, followed by a car being driven by Alex’s father, followed by five other cars. Michael pulled the car he was driving out last. The procession was headed toward the cemetery. At the cemetery, Michael parked a respectable distance away, not to intrude on the grief of the family. Once the casket was being lowered into the ground, Michael started his car and headed for the hotel, where a reservation had been made for him. He parked the car, went inside to the desk, picked up his key and mail and walked up the stairs. He opened the door, placed his baggage by the bed, and lay down, falling asleep. A knocking on the door awakened him. It was the bellhop with a telegram. Michael reached in his pocket and pulled out a bill, handing it to the bellhop, and then ripped the telegram open. Another body had been washed up in the Philadelphia area. The body was stuffed in a barrel, and had not yet been identified. He was ordered to go to Philadelphia to cover the story. Michaels first thought was to find Alex and let her read the telegram. If she wanted a ride back to Baltimore, it would be on his way, are perhaps he could drop the clothing off for Elizabeth, and Alex would not have to ship it. First, he had to shower, shave get dressed, and possibly a bite to eat. Michael came out of the bathroom, packed his bag, and then went downstairs to the hotel restaurant. To his surprise most of the tables were taken. As he started to seat himself at the lunch counter, he spied Alex with a group of girls, looking at a magazine. He walked over and remarked, “There should be a law against this.”

The girls closed the magazine, and turned the cover over quickly.

Alex glanced up and asked, “A law against what Michael?”

“Against so many beautiful women gathering in one place,” answered Michael “I thought perhaps you would like to read this,” and handed the telegram to Alex

Alex scanned the message and asked, “How does this concern me?”

“It means I will be driving past Baltimore. I thought perhaps, if you wanted me to, I could drop the clothing off for Elizabeth, or better yet, you could ride along with me. I could use the company.”

“How soon will you be leaving?” questioned Alex.

“I am packed and ready to go. I want to spend tomorrow in Baltimore, leaving early, and be in Philadelphia Monday morning,” Michael answered.

“Tricia, I need you to do me a big favor. Go over to Elizabeth’s house and pick up the clothes I have packed for her. I will go home and pack and be back in half an hour. Michael, why don’t you get us a box lunch to go,” Alex was giving orders.

Tricia picked up the magazine and started to walk out the door with it. “Hold it just a minute,” Michael was saying, “Alex may want to take the magazine with her.”

“No way,” answered Tricia, “this baby goes under my mattress at night,” showing Michael the cover. It was a picture of a man, wearing only a tight wet bathing suit.

Michael said, “I can do that pose,” and started unbuttoning his shirt.

Tricia said, “Alex, are you sure you are safe with him?”

Lila Lee chimed in, “You know she is. If he gets smart, she will put a hammer lock on him, right, Alex.”

Alex answered by going over to Michael, extending her hand, and when he took it, she twirls him around in a hammer lock, also twisting his wrist.

Michael let out a yell saying, “Alex, I need my arm to drive. I get the message.”

“I think I had better go pack my bag, before he changes his mind,” said Alex as she was walking out the door. Michael went over to the lunch counter to order the box lunches, and wait for Alex’s return.

In no time at all the girls returned, came inside for Michael, and watched as he packed the luggage inside the car.

Tricia said, “Drive carefully, and keep both hands on the steering wheel, Mr. Hot Stuff.”

Alex was very quiet while all the bantering was going on. Once on the open road Michael asked, “Why are you so quiet tonight?”

“I am not really sure. I keep thinking about the telegram, and I have a feeling it means something to me, maybe I am just tired,” she answered.

“I found out one thing about you tonight,” Michael bragged.

“And what might that be?” asked Alex. Her curiosity had gotten the best of her.

Michael answered with a smile in his voice, “The man that marries you has got a tiger by the tail, now don’t get insulted. I meant it as a compliment.”

Alex asked, “Do you mind if I turn on the radio?”

Michael turned on the radio for her and said, “Perhaps you would like to select the station.”

Michael was grateful he had the music to listen to; it would help keep him awake. Alex had fallen fast asleep.

Michael pulled into an all-night service station and filled up the gas tank. Alex woke up, went to the restroom, and waited for Michael to return from the men’s room. She had bought a couple of bottles of Pop. Handing one to him she said, “Let’s eat, and then I will drive while you get some sleep.”

Michael snickered, thinking, she won’t even know how to start it. Soon Alex let out an “All aboard.”

Michael took his seat in the passenger side, Alex slid under the steering wheel, placed her right foot on the starter, pulling the hand brake to mid position, into low gear, saying “No Tin lizzie is going to get the best of me.” Once on the open road Alex pushed the lever forward, taking her foot off the left pedal, putting the car into high gear. Now the car could cruise without having to push any of the pedals.

Michael wasn’t sure he was comfortable enough to sleep. He rested his head on the back of the seat, closed his eyes, and soon he was sound asleep.

Michael was awakened by Alex shaking him saying, “Here we are.” He opened his eyes and saw that they were already at the rooming house. “My God, what did you do, fly?” Michael asked.

“Michael you are aware that this car has four cylinders and goes forty-five miles an hour, aren’t you?” Alex asked. “How about helping me upstairs with this baggage

Michael got out of the car, stretched his arms, and said, “Yes Ma’am, let’s go.”

Once upstairs, Alex asked, “Michael, what are your plans now?”

“Well, I was thinking about going to church, then to the luncheon and attend the songfest. Is that appropriate, or should I change my plans?” Michael answered.

“What I rather have you do is wait for me to get dressed, drop me off at the church, and then continue your trip to Philadelphia,” Alex told him. “For some reason, I feel compelled to know more about the body that was found. As soon as you get the information you need, please drive back and fill me in.”

“If that is what you want, I shall oblige,” replied Michael. “Now go get dressed.”

Michael could hear her in the bedroom grumbling. When she came out she looked extremely beautiful.

“You are one gorgeous dame,” Michael complimented her, “And what were you grumbling about?”

I couldn’t find the skirt and blouse I wanted to wear. I can’t believe Elizabeth wore them. They aren’t her colors, “Alex explained.

 

Chapter Two

 

Elizabeth and Otto were walking to the parking lot at the hospital when they heard footsteps and a voice calling, “Please wait a minute Mrs. Hall, I need to talk to you,”

A female voice yelled. The two stopped and waited for the young lady to catch up with them.

“Mrs. Hall, thank you for stopping. Please, I need your help. My name is Trixie Taylor. I know how you must feel about me, but I need help badly, and you are the only person that I know of that could help me. I will do anything you ask,” she pleaded. “As you know, I used to be a prostitute, but I want to change my life. That means I am going to give up prostitution, and I want to become a respected person in the community. I need you to teach me how to walk, talk, and dress. My Father is going to sell his house, and come live with me. I want him to be proud of me, not be ashamed to be seen me.

This caught Elizabeth by surprise. After a moment of silence she said, “Trixie, are you sure you want me to help you. I will have high expectations of you. The most important is that Gresy be out of your life completely.

“Mrs. Hall, I expected that. I have already told Gresy he is out of my life. I appreciate the fact that he did help me, when I was down and out, but I am older and wiser now,” replied Trixie. “I want self-respect, and no one can give that to me, I have to earn it for myself. I want to be able to look at myself in the mirror and think, “Trixie, you have become a woman your Mother would have been proud of.”

“If you are absolutely sure, Trixie, be at my apartment at 10:00 o’clock in the morning,” Elizabeth told her.

“I am so happy, thank you so much, I will be on time,” answered Trixie, as she walked away.

Elizabeth turned to Otto and asked, “Now what have I done?”

Otto answered, “A very wonderful thing. Trixie did not have a loving Mother, such as you, to guide her in her early years. You have the ability to guide her now and turn her into a beautiful, caring person, such as yourself.”

“Otto, you certainly know how to flatter females. They are like butter in your hands,” Elizabeth mused. By this time they had reached the car, and Otto opened the car door for Elizabeth. She sat back in the seat and let out a deep sigh. Elizabeth was very quiet on the way home. She was wondering, where do I start and what do I do.