The Legacy: A Collection of Works

Contents

THIS AND THAT

A book of Short Stories, including a sailing voyage, animal tales, American Indian stories, partial rewrite of a classic story and personal revelations.

Prologue

A Bright Clear Day

TIME OF CASTLES   A Search for Ancestors

A fictional travel story. Leah finds her ancestor’s castles and learns of medieval royalty, as she enjoys friendship and the food and wine of Great Britain.

Chapter One

Epilogue

SEASON’S SUN

PART I   Land Above

In this historical story Benjamin finds love and conflict in his native land of Northern Ireland in the 1700’s, and later emigrated to America.

Chapter One

PART II   A New Land

Benjamin’s arrival in Charleston, South Carolina in 1797, and the family’s eventual migration to Tennessee and Illinois.

Chapter Eight

THE LIFE AND ADVENTURES OF KATE AND ALEC

Two journalists on the road of adventure, love and danger.

Chapter One

PUZZLE OF SUSPECTS

A crime novel with many twists and turns, romance and travel.

Prologue

Chapter One

For Writer’s Village University.com where any writer,

newbie or advanced, can write and study

with a network of writers.

Collection of Short Stories,

Novellas and a Novel by Leigh Clarke,

2010 to 2013

THIS AND THAT

A Book of Short Stories

Prologue

In the introduction to Herman Melville’s book Moby Dick, it was written that Melville never thought of himself as a great writer. He said A whale ship was my Yale College and my Harvard. He wrote his book full of wild and untamable characters, in frank contempt for the genteel life.

One of the sentences revered in literature is Melville’s opening line in Moby Dick; Call me Ishmael. One of the short stories in this book, began with an assignment in a class I took at Writer’s Village University on line, to change the point of view. And I wanted to start with a sentence consistent to Melville’s; I used, Call Me Moby Dick.

This is just an example of the many stories I’ve written here. Given a subject or idea you write from that and see where it takes you. In most part, I don’t consider these stories anything except something I enjoyed putting to paper. I consider myself less of a writer and more of a searcher of knowledge through word.

Please enjoy and realize writing is a tough master.

A Bright Clear Day

Nancy sang along with the radio, changing lanes here and there, as she worked her way in the morning traffic rush. Her heart felt light and everything seemed to be going her way lately. She loved her new loft apartment, friends, and although it had taken time, late hours and weekends, her career in real estate seemed to be paying off. Approaching her mid-rise office building and entering the parking lot, she pulled into the space marked with her name on a sign, followed by Realtor of the Month. She entered through the west entrance and greeted the receptionist, Hi Peg, any messages? She looked in the message center as the receptionist checked the stack of pink messages on her desk.

Oh, yes, this one, Peggy handed her, just came in a minute or two ago. He says he wants to see your listing on Oak after lunch today. Sounded like a nice, friendly guy.

Thanks, Peg. She took the messages and material from her box and entered the etched glass doors. She smiled and greeted several agents, rounded the corner to the right and entered her comfortable corner office with a window view to the southeast overlooking the busy Greenway Plaza of Houston, Texass. She turned on the lamp next to the sofa, rearranged the two chairs facing her desk and sat and started reading her messages.

Hello, Bob. This is Nancy at the Real Estate office, I have your message wanting to see my listing on Oak, is that right? Great; can you come to my office around one and I can show you the stats on the house, get some personal information from you and then head on over to the house. Would that be okay with you?

The voice indicated he was in his car and wondered if it would be possible to meet her at the property, as he only had 30 minutes before a meeting downtown; if he liked the property as much as he thought he would, he could take more time later today or tomorrow. Nancy hesitated. Bob, I usually insist on meeting my customers at the office, but if that isn’t possible today, would you be able to answer some questions for me?

He seemed willing and with her usual professionalism, approached the subject of qualifying for this upscale home, discussed his job and where he was living, his family, debts and all in the form of a back and forth conversation needed to qualify a buyer to her satisfaction before meeting them cold. She made the appointment to meet him at one o’clock at the Oak house.

Nancy stepped from her Lexus and approached a very handsome man, probably in his late thirties, standing by a white Suburban, whose appearance reassured her. His well-tailored suit outlined a long, lean body and said ‘expensive’, his dark eyes were warm and friendly and she couldn’t help wondering why a man with his looks and money would still be single. His hand was warm and responsive and he said, Thanks so much for seeing me in short order. I really believe this is the house I’ll buy—everything I see on the outside, its location and price seems ideal for me.

Bob, I’m glad to meet you and show you around. I want you to love the inside too, and I’m sure you will. Let’s go on in. Unlocking the door, she led the way into the foyer. Isn’t this a beautiful entry? she asked. It suddenly seemed too silent with only a click of the lock and a guttural sound back of her. Alarmed she started to turn and a hand found her mouth and what seemed like a knee hit her back and she lost her balance. As she struggled to see who was twisting her off her feet, she saw the eyes of a monster. They were cold and reeking of hate. His harsh voice was uttering ugly, terrible words.

The man who had seemed so friendly, warm and trustworthy had changed. His face was twisted into a snarl; as he pushed and dragged her screaming into the living room, he said, Shut up you bitch or I will use this knife to cut your throat He pushed her to the floor and with his foot on her chest he reached down and pulled off her shoes and then her panty hose. Every time she tried to free herself, he drew the long cold blade of the knife against her neck. He took the panty hose and pulling her arms back of her he wrapped them tightly around her wrists. Nancy’s fear brought tears and pleading, which angered him causing him to apply more pain; suddenly it seemed she had slipped from her own body, as if she couldn’t face the reality of her situation.

Time did not track, had it been minutes or hours? Would the office realize they needed to check on her? She began to disassociate, to reach out to a better place. Lost in her sobs, she could see her two beautiful daughters she loved so much. She thought of how she had lost her husband and son to a drunken driver on Christmas Eve ten years before; how the pain of their loss made her want to die. Now she had so much to live for, she knew she would die. This madman would kill her when he was through with her. She knew too much.

She listened to silence and realized he was not hurting her anymore. Where was he, what would he do next? Returning from her mind’s journey afar, the paralyzing fear gripped her again. When would it be over, when would he kill her?

She thought she heard the click of the lock again and the door shutting. And then she heard what sounded like a car engine. Could he be leaving her alive? Her heart kept pounding and hope surged through her; although she lie face down with her hands tied securely behind her she wrestled her body to turn over and after several attempts she sat up.

After gaining a little strength and with pure will she got to her feet and stumbled toward the door. The side panes of the front door revealed his car was no longer in the driveway. She opened the door with her bound hands and with all her remaining strength she ran down the steps to the middle of the boulevard, with the lovely trees lining the street of lovely homes, she began to scream, Help, help, please someone help me.

Epilogue

Nancy soon helped the police with the capture of the criminal who had attacked two other business ladies in the city prior to attacking her. With due diligence she began to put together information she obtained with the on-line phone interview, her remembrance of his license plate and especially knowledge about where he said he came from; as she knew the town well, having lived there during her youth. She kept pressure on the authorities, and they followed through, with her help, in locating his real identity and enough evidence to put him away for a life sentence. Nancy remains alert to his appeal (he lost) and to any pardons. She is also an active member of the National Crime Victims Law Institute.

Blind Spot

James woke up with headache throbbing; damn, hope I had a good time. Without seeing Rose in bed and smelling coffee brewing in the kitchen, he thought, lead me to a cup of that. As he stumbled towards the bathroom, he noticed his crumpled white shirt and jeans scattered on the floor. I must have been loaded. Hope Rose isn’t in a pique. He dashed his face with cold water and looked in the mirror. His wavy hair was tousled about and his eyes red rimmed. Damn you are a handsome creature; he thought laughing and enjoying his own wit.

Rose sat in the kitchen sipping orange juice and reading the local paper. She did not raise her head when James entered the kitchen. He leaned over and landed a noisy kiss on her neck and said, Guess you are mad at me for coming home so late last night? Rose gave him no recognition, so he continued, Randy joined Bob and me and you know how difficult it is to get away from him. He just wouldn’t quit trying to convince me to run for that open seat.

Come on, can the excuses. I’ve heard every conceivable excuse. Don’t waste my time.

You are brutal. What do you think about me running for office?

I think you are being used for your name not your abilities.

Wow, you are mad at me. What abilities don’t I have?

Aside from being a drunk you mean? With James’s look of amazement, Rose knew she had gone too far. I’m sorry for that, but you’ve been drinking more since I met you. First I thought it was just fun times for you, but now I’m afraid you use it to cover up from feelings of being the ‘black sheep’ of a famous family. It’s obvious your brother gets all the attention and is thought to be next in line for achieving your family’s heritage; you being the first born.

Rose you are off-base. I drink with my friends. I always have and always will. You used to drink along with me and have fun too. Why have you decided to be Miss Goodie Two Shoes now?

Whatever. Rose stood up; took her coffee and left the kitchen.

Expectations

I stood quietly looking out the kitchen window. The large white cat that lives with his masters in the pretty putty colored house on the corner across the street sat pondering the approaching medium sized yellow dog sniffing the ground and getting close to the yard where the cat sat silently. As the dog got closer, the cat pounced. The frightened dog ran whence he came with the cat hot on his heels. This reversal of expectations startled me. The big cat not only chased the intruder out of his yard but continued to chase the cowed dog until it disappeared into the straggly trees and bushes in an empty lot down the road. I smiled as the cat strutted back home all full of himself.

Reversal of expectations; how certain we become of our expectancies, I thought. Life is no longer a crap-shoot with variety and excitement. Still in a contemplative mood I saw the mail lady making her delivery. I went out and gathered the mix of junk and bills. Opening with curiosity the one I couldn’t identify, my eyes fell on the invitation to my 10th year college reunion. An immediate response of no way passed through my mind; along with the usual excuses: Yee gads a group of middle aged couples with 2.3 children and McMansions. And more silently the guilt over a recent divorce, no date and what would I wear.

As I entered my bedroom, I pretended to look in the closet for work clothes for the next day, but glanced over at the pretty dresses. The little black dress is too sexy. Well, it wouldn’t be too sexy if I had a date. Then I thought of a college suite-mate I visited with occasionally and gave her a quick call. "Lori, did you get the 10th year invitation?

Yah she murmured, obviously munching on something.

Do you plan on going?

Just a minute Peg, let me grab my wine. OK, umm good Pinot Noir. Well, at first I thought I wanted to go, and then I remembered Leonard and his society bride would probably be there. Are you going?

I don’t want to go alone; Jeremy will probably be there with a new hottie. I thought of you and realized going together would reinforce my resolve to get over the divorce. Two hot chicks in little black dresses ought to raise a few heads.

Let’s do it, Peg. I will pick you up in my new convertible and we will howl.

Great, see you then.

I had finished law school after graduation and landed a position with a large firm downtown. Jeremy worked in the District Attorney’s office. We had graduated from the same college, but had only met a couple times. We were married within the year. I felt proud to find someone so gorgeous and talented. Life never looked so good. And then as my Grandma always said, When things look great be prepared for disappointment. What happened still eludes me; with all the delectation of the beginning we found only disappointment in the ending.

Lori and I walked into the ballroom of the St. Francis. I saw heads turn our way. Lori was very tall and thin; I somewhat shorter but had maintained a slim figure. Soon a group of guys approached us on their way to the bar. The tall one with half a head of hair leered at Lori saying, Hey, where were you 10 years ago. I walked on while Lori stopped and began laughing and chatting with them. At the gold circle bar ahead I saw Jeremy. He glanced my way and smiled; showing his straight white teeth against his tan skin. He looked as handsome as ever. It has been two years since I saw him last and not wanting to show my vulnerability, I gave him my most confident smile. Hi Jeremy, how’s the party?

You haven’t missed anything. Glad you came I really didn’t expect you. Was that Lori I saw you come in with?

Yes. We met again last year. She works for a tech company in the city.

Will you join me at my table? I came with a guy from work, but he has been stalking the single gals, he’s actually one of the gang surrounding Lori. I’ve been thinking about you lately, and wanted to talk. Do you think we can shout over the band?

We talked, we met again for dates, we fell in love all over again and this time I felt I’d reached the maturity to be a good wife and a good lawyer.

Now six months later I stand before our kitchen window on a warm spring morning and smile at our neighbor’s cat. Jeremy and I both love to read Emerson. With his words in mind, we vowed, for our second time around, To expect the unexpected, to end each day and be done with it. Tomorrow is a new day. You shall begin it serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense

I have never told anyone this before… but I’m through with old nonsense.

Indecision

I have a difficult time in making up my mind. The last time I went shopping for a blouse to wear with some slacks, I went to five stores, tried on about a dozen blouses and never could decide which one I liked best; if I liked any of them at all. Then yesterday I wanted to try a new shade of lipstick. I thought I would like something in a cool shade. I sampled a lot of them and asked the lady back of the corner what she thought would look good on me. She made a few suggestions; I tried them and couldn’t make up my mind. I decided I could live without a new tube anyway.

In getting ready for work this morning I wished I’d bought the long sleeved silk shirt I tried on yesterday. The black skirt didn’t look too good with the green shirt, so I took it off and wore my kaki colored one. I really liked high heels with that skirt, but wasn’t sure if I should go with my black ones or the half—boot brown ones. Finally dressed in my kaki skirt, green shirt and half—boot brown heels, I quickly combed my hair, brushed on some make-up and wished I had picked up the nude colored lipstick I’d tried on yesterday. I finally chose a coral shade and looked myself over and decided I looked just fine without spending a dime.

. . . And Then Come Back

Chapter One

They heard the explosion. Zack quickly rose from his chair and walked to the front porch; he saw black smoke rising in the sky to the northwest. I bet another car missed the curve, that’ll be five in nine years. Benny you stay here with Rex and I’ll go down and check things out.

I want to go this time.

Zack looked at his thirteen year old son, a strong boy with a heavy mop of straw colored hair falling onto his brow. So like Sandy he thought.

Okay son lets go. They put on their sheepskin coats and boots and Rex, excited by their actions, jumped about in anticipation. The snow lay deep across the landscape; coming earlier than usual, and making it difficult to follow Rex down the mountain trail without their snowshoes. At the first clearing they saw the car in flames below. Damn, Zack murmured to himself, That curve has taken more lives.

Dad, look. There’s a body. Benny pointed to what looked like a form lying in the snow about fifteen feet up the incline from the fiery wreck below. What looked like a red jacket or sweater outlined the upper body.

They hurried down the trail; the car smoldered in its finality, only enough left to be identified as a navy blue Mercedes sports coupe. Zack carefully made his way up the opposite hillside, slipping on icy rocks and then finding firmer footing as he approached the small body lying in a snow bank against a large rock; a bruised and battered body motionless and dressed in torn jeans and a red sweater; long brown hair partially covered her pale face, a young lady, probably early twenties, he thought. Kneeling, he gently lifted her hair off her face and felt her neck for a pulse. He yelled to Benny who had lingered below, She’s alive. Go back and get the sled and put in a couple blankets and a neck brace. Hurry, we need to get her to the cabin. He took off his long sheepskin-lined coat, covered her, tucking it under as best he could without moving her body too much.

Benny found the sled and attached the halter to Rex. The dog had pulled the sled many times; with deer carcasses, logs and firewood; the German shepherd exhibited a large amount of grit and determination and yet his warm eyes offered friendship. Benny located the neck brace in the first-aid cabinet, tied a couple quilts into the sled, and headed back to the floor of the canyon.

Zack prepared the guest bedroom and after checking for broken bones, cleaning her wounds and putting cold compresses where needed, he soon had the young lady in a pair of Benny’s flannel pajamas and under the covers. She did not respond in any way to his examination and treatment. He smiled to himself hoping this pretty young woman would not be disturbed to have a veterinarian working on her.

The generator furnished the power to keep the cabin warm and the lights burning; otherwise, the large stone fireplace’s flickering amber light glowed off the log lined walls. The smell of chicken soup simmering on the stove permeated the air. Zack had gone to the cellar to gather fall vegetables and a jar of chicken he had canned, remembering his mother’s edict that chicken soup cured about everything. He reflected how over the past nine years he and Benny had become self-contained in their mountain location. They did not have television or computer, but they had food from the garden, eggs and meat from their chickens, milk, butter and cream from two milk cows and they were able to hunt for other meat.

The next morning, Zack checked on his patient, who slept quietly, and then took a hot shower. Looking in the mirror for his morning shave he saw reflected back at him a tanned face surrounded by a preponderance of brown hair, mixed with gray, at his temples and some deep wrinkles lined his green eyes. Sandy always admired what she called his strong chin. Was it beginning to droop? He put on a big smile and realized it pulled up the line. Good god, I’m getting vain, he muttered and quickly finished shaving. In the kitchen he made coffee and called, Pancakes will be ready soon. In response Rex wagged his long tail with several loud thuds on the pine floor.

They had finished breakfast and started to pick up the dishes when the woman stirred and cried out and just as suddenly became quiet again. Zack hoped that besides her badly bruised body, she didn’t have internal injuries; he’d checked her pupils and they didn’t indicate concussion, but as soon as he could plow out the snow to the main highway, he would get her to the doctor in town. Another blizzard had come roaring in overnight and heavy snow kept falling in the morning; probably a foot at least, thought Zack.

He went into the bedroom and looked down at the pretty young woman lying so quietly. He again thought of Sandy. He remembered the argument that sent her running to their country place and the terrible accident. You’re always too busy for your family, Zack. Will we ever come first? She had asked for him to take some time off so they could be together as a family. The time never seemed right for him to get away. Ever since he went out on his own, his veterinarian practice had dominated his life for what seemed every hour of every day of the week.

After Sandy’s funeral he couldn’t focus. He felt guilt and remorse, but mostly he missed her. The doctors didn’t expect Benny to live, but if he did survive he would have lifelong major problems because of his brain injuries. From this time on it was Zack’s insistence on saving Benny that made life possible for him. Within months he made arrangements for two other vets to buy his practice, moved full time to their country place in the mountains, planning on rebuilding Benny’s capabilities. And now ten years later Benny had surpassed all their expectations and even excelled for his age.

After dinner they quickly washed and dried the dishes and retired to the welcoming sitting area in front of the fireplace where Zack liked to read and Benny, when he wasn’t studying in the loft, liked to be with Rex. Tonight he sat cross legged on the cow-skin rug with Rex’s head in his lap. I’ve been wondering why we’ve become so isolated. Zack slowly lowered the book to look at his son. I mean, well, I sure would like to go to school in town. I’ve never had a friend my own age.

Zack sat quietly for a minute as if slow to react to what he heard. "Benny… I’ve always thought of what would be best for you. I know you’ve caught up with your grade—actually surpassed it. He paused again rubbing his hands through his hair and stretching his long legs out in front of him.

I’m not saying I’m unhappy with just you and Rex. I’ve a great life here, I’m glad we aren’t living in the city and I understand how you’ve dedicated so much time to me since Mom died. I’ve been remembering things that happened before the crash and wonder if that is the reason we stay so isolated. Like maybe you feel guilty… or I mean… responsible… or somethin’.

Benny, you were only three when your mother died, so I doubt you have memories as much as you’re remembering things you’ve heard me talk about.

No, I remember you and Mom arguing about your work; she put me in the car and then I remember the crash. I can see and hear it, the skid and screeching of brakes before we hit the guard rail and a moment when it seemed we floated in the air and then I don’t remember any more. When we found the women yesterday it all came back; we wrecked on the curve below, didn’t we?

Zack looked at his freckled faced son, whose green eyes looked back at him intently. He talked about this terrible day in the voice of a thirteen year old but the demeanor of someone far wiser. Yes, your Mom was killed when her car missed that same curve. You survived, badly hurt but thankfully, another car saw everything and called emergency services. They airlifted you and Mom to the city. I think you know the rest and how we came here so I could be with you while you recovered. Riding the horse helped you walk again and Rex gave you spirit to work through the pain—and, yes, I feel to blame for making your Mom so unhappy she ran from me and had the accident. I just have to live with that. But I don’t what my guilt to hurt you. When you’re ready, Benny, I’ll let go, I promise.

I know you will He stood and leaning over he rested his head on his dad’s shoulder and Zack stroked his hair. "Would you like some cookies and milk, Dad?

Hey, that sounds great, he got up and together they strolled into the open kitchen.

Munching on a cookie, Benny looked towards the guest room and in a whisper, said, Sometimes I think she hears us talking. Do you think she could?

No, I think I would know if she awakes enough to listen to us unless she is a good actor, he said lightly, but his frown lines deceived him, as Benny’s remarks about their isolation created feelings of vulnerability for the first time. He would make changes soon, he thought, the outside world could not be kept in abeyance forever; he would do it for Benny, if not for himself. He got up walked through the hall to the guest room. She remained quiet; a small figure under the covers—her angelic face revealing nothing.

She was listening. At first she thought she had awakened from a dream; then a memory of driving rapidly towards the mountains and losing control on a curve. Now she knew this log-lined house had two occupants and a dog. The first time she remembered the man coming to her bedside, the light of day shown through the curtained window. Keeping her eyes closed, as he touched her head gently, she remained quiet. Had he found her after the wreck and brought her here? Was she safe—how long had she been asleep? All these thoughts were running through her mind. Alone again, she slowly began moving her toes, her legs and upward to her hands, arms, shoulders and neck. The pain she could tolerate; everything worked.

After the man left, she realized her hunger. Oh, how I wanted to respond to the call for breakfast. But I must wait and be careful. I hope my car is somehow hidden from sight, darn, if I had made it across the mountain I could have hidden it and gone on by bus. Her thoughts were quiet for a minute and then continued. I had to do it . . . .

She thought about the past year in residence at the private mental institution. After graduating high school she had experienced a break-down. Under observation the doctors told her parents she needed treatment for her anger and resentment. Her parents quickly committed her to Tangle Briar. She knew she had been disposed of as rapidly as yesterday’s newspaper as nothing must tarnish their position of importance in society.

With treatment Ashley became aware of the sexual abuse she suffered from her father; and that her mother had known but did nothing. Over the years she blamed herself and felt dirty and naughty and quietly nursed guilt into anger until every minute of every day was filled with resentment. When she was small her nanny tried to protect her and being unable to, would hold her close when she cried at night. Her father quit her when she turned thirteen and from then on he never touched her again in any way; his avoidance hurt as much as his abuse.

By the time of private boarding school the damage had been done psychologically; she excelled in her studies and musical abilities, but developed a cold core. It seemed every time she reached out for help she felt rejected or others thought her selfish because of her privileged life. Outsiders only knew her parents to have the finest unselfish qualities.

Knowing her parents could keep her confined indefinitely, she decided to escape. After careful planning, one dark night she left her room, making her way down corridors until coming to the stairwell leading to the first floor, where several times she stopped to make sure a nurse wouldn’t cross her path; opening the back door with a key she had stolen earlier, she quickly stepped out of the institution of cold walls and deadened souls.

Ashley stayed on the stone walk leading around the building towards the front gate and when about half way, tip-toed off the path, crossed to the stone wall and followed it until she came to the space between the wall and the beginning of the high wire fence, which followed the tree line around the back of the property. As she slid her body through the space, the guard at the gate turned his flashlight in her direction. Who’s there? he called out. She pressed her small body up against the stone post and stood still until he went back to his station. Turning towards the trees she walked deeper in the woods and followed the pine needle path; the full moon reflecting on snow helped guide her way.

When she reached the street, she walked for several blocks to put distance between her and the institution before boarding a bus, using the few coins she kept hidden in a small purse. After changing buses four times, she arrived in walking distance of her neighborhood. The mansions on this boulevard all sat behind tall walls. She knew she would have to be careful to avoid alerting guard dogs that roamed the estate grounds. Since she had grown up on the ten acres surrounding the large stately house she called home, she knew the gardens, woods and paths by heart; an only child, she played and romped here for hours. She had a pony, a dog and parents not at all interested in her wellbeing. Her freedom became her friend.

And finally she was at the back door leading to the maid quarters. She knew the staff had Wednesday night off. On Monday she called her mother to see if she could visit on Wednesday, and was told Daddy has to be to bed early because of a board meeting Thursday, so don’t come too late. It was now the time to follow through with her plan.

Ashley entered through a window in the maid’s quarters she knew would not set off the alarm system. The moonlight through the window helped illuminate the sitting room and she quickly turned off the alarm. Closing her eyes she remembered how her nanny and the others always greeted her warmly when she came down for a visit. She liked being here again. But I must hurry, she thought. As a good soldier on a mission she entered the main house and went directly to her father’s study where she found the heavy revolver in the left desk lower drawer. With gun in hand she walked softly up the winding stairway to the landing above and down the hall to the master bedroom; finding the door ajar she entered and as her eyes adjusted to the mid-darkness, she raised the gun and pointed it towards the figure of her father and suddenly a loud sharp sound broke the silence. The gun rocked her back on her heals and she stood as if paralyzed, seeing both parents sit up in the bed, her father’s cold eyes staring at her. Ashley, for God’s sake, what are you doing?

She dropped the gun and ran. She ran as if he would catch her and take her to that awful attic room. In the garage she found her mother’s car, fished the keys out of their hiding place, backed out and roared around the circular drive, punching the button on the visor that opened the guard gates. She floored the gas pedal and soon merged in with night traffic on the main road to the mountains.

Had she hit him? Was he hurt? Would he live? He knew who shot him. Oh God, why did I do it; what will happen now? Her mother would be on the phone to the police, or, she hoped, their craving for privacy might prevent that. She directed the car towards the mountain road; they knew her fear of that curving, dangerous road that curled around hills like a menacing snake, and felt they would not look for her in that direction.

And before she could remember losing control of the car, she drifted off to sleep.

Chapter Two

Zack heated up the chicken soup he made the day before and he and Benny busily soaked their thick bread pieces in it. Suddenly the young lady stood in the hallway door. Zack dropped his slice of bread and quickly pushed back his chair and all six foot two of him stood as if facing a ghost.

A delicious aroma reached me and I’m very hungry. Her voice seemed older than her appearance standing there so tiny in the big flannel pajamas.

"I can’t believe you’re up and around. How do you feel—do you have much pain? Zack seemed to rattle off questions, not waiting for an answer.

She formed a small smile. I’m stiff and sore, but don’t seem to have any broken places, but could you point me to your bathroom please?

When she came back, Zack pulled out a chair for her and filled a large bowl full of soup and put out more bread. He found a piece of left-over peach cobbler and filled a large glass of milk. He introduced himself and Benny. Hi all, and who is the guy staring at me with the long ears?

Benny responded, his curious eyes never leaving her face, Oh that’s Rex. Say hello boy.

Rex barked and wagged his tail.

She leaned to pet the friendly dog, and said, My name is Ashley. She sat in the pulled out chair and quickly started eating, not raising her head from her plate until she finished. Thanks so much—I loved every bite. She went with them to sit in front of the fireplace in the chair left empty since Sandy’s death. Benny and Rex sat on the rug. Ashley sat with her legs pulled up under her. Zack couldn’t believe her flexibility with only a day passing since he had brought her to the cabin. I need some help in remembering what happened to me—I heard some of your conversation but it’s unclear to me how long I’ve been here.

Zack, still amazed at her recovery, said, It was only yesterday we heard a loud explosion and found you in a snow bank on the side of a ravine and your car on fire in the canyon. You had not been able to make a dangerous curve and thank goodness landed safely away from the tumbling car. We brought you here, treated you as much as possible and I’m so glad you seem not to be injured except for bumps and bruises.

Did you find my cell phone, purse, anything?

No everything in the car burned. We aren’t able to get to town for a while due to the blizzard that has buried us in for a few days at least. You can use our phone; will someone be looking for you?

No one knows I left town yesterday so no one is worrying about me. Do you get a paper? Have you heard any news on the television?

We don’t get a paper or have a television. I’m sorry—we’ve been kind of isolated here and I just heard how much from Benny this morning. He smiled and glanced at his son. I’ve been so busy trying to make things better; I guess I forgot that he needs some outside stimulus."

Zack explained the details of their lifestyle and thought perhaps she would then feel free to speak about herself. She listened quietly and at times looked over at Benny on the rug nestled with Rex. Sadness enveloped her to realize how strong this family bond seemed to be. What could she tell them about herself? Would it be the lies she had learned to craft so well. Somehow she couldn’t lie to them. Not now. I’m sorry, I’m getting very weary and I think my legs are going to sleep. Could you help me back to bed?

For the next two days Ashley woke up early, and with warm clothes provided by Benny, she joined in the chores. Since she had grown up with animals, she felt at ease with the menagerie of horses, cows and calves. The chickens puzzled her with their incessant clucking at her side, but she learned quickly to scatter their seeds and gather the eggs. Benny helped her feed hay and grain to the hungry cows while Zack milked and then she learned about the machine that separated the milk and cream. Zack told her they sold most of the cream and eggs in town at the Farmer’s Market every Saturday along with vegetables from their garden in the summer. Ashley and Benny were hungry when they arrived back to the cabin and Zack quickly put on the coffee pot and Benny stirred the pancake batter getting it ready for the griddle. Zack had Ashley tend the thick peppered bacon in the cold iron skillet as he chopped up some left-over baked potatoes for hash browns. Ashley toasted the thick slices of home baked bread, smothered with freshly churned butter, while Zack prepared the scrambled eggs. Ashley felt for the first time to be a needed member of a family.

Ashley grew comfortable with her surroundings and the friendly, warm man, son and dog as companions. They had not asked her any more questions, but she knew she needed to talk with them about herself. How much could she tell? Would they hate her and see her as the spoiled daughter of distinguished parents? Was she now a killer, a hunted murderer? The psychiatrist assigned to her case had told her she suffered from the lack of self-worth, but did not have a personality disorder or any major psychological problem. In fact, he wondered why she had been hospitalized at all. But now, Ashley thought, her attempt to shoot her father would only confirm their opinion for her confinement.

They sat around the fireplace after dinner; Zack reading, Benny and Rex on the sofa and Ashley attempting to concentrate on a magazine, with her mind elsewhere. I’m gonna do some reading in bed, if I can stay awake. Benny said as he stood and crossed to the ladder leading to his loft. Ashley laughed at the large dog climbing behind; she had never seen a dog climb a ladder before.

Good night, son. Sleep tight.

Night Benny. That dog sure loves you. Ashley said, and again felt the warmth of love in this home.

Ashley and Zack sat quietly reading for a few minutes. Zack, I’m sorry to interrupt your reading, but I wanted to tell you something about me.

Zack instantly put the book aside and a welcoming smile stretched across his weathered face. You have my attention Ashley.

She began hesitantly and Zack could see a frightened child inside the confident young lady. I’m not what I seem to be, she began and went on to tell her story and to her surprise she began to cry uncontrollably when she came to the shooting of her father.

Chapter Three

On the first day the road to the highway melted enough for the jeep to plow through, Zack drove into town leaving Benny and Ashley to do the chores. He went directly to the library and researched the recent news—finding no headlines regarding a shooting in Cherry Ridge or any mention of her family name other than society news. There was no evidence of anyone searching for an escapee from a mental institution or a shooting reported to the police. He made two more stops, and then picked up some groceries and bags of scratch for the chickens before heading home.

Zack jumped from the jeep and walked into the house. Hey, Benny, I need a hand at unloading the grain. With no response, he headed for the barn. Bennie and Ashley seemed to have disappeared. He found himself thinking the worse; did Ashley take Benny someplace by force? He then noticed Comet missing from his stall. He checked outside and noticed the sleigh gone too. Just then he heard sleigh bells and Comet came prancing around the side of the barn with Ashley and Benny laughing. Zack walked in front of Comet and took him by the halter. What are you doing Benny? You know you are not supposed to take the horse out when I’m not around.

I’m sorry. I just took Ashley around the main pasture in sight of the house. I didn’t want to worry you.

It’s my fault Zack. I wanted to ride in the sleigh and I shouldn’t have encouraged it without you at home. Ashley’s face held remorse.

Okay you guys, get Comet cooled down and then I need a hand hauling the grain. Zack walked back to the jeep. He wished he had not felt the distrusting feelings towards Ashley. She had been with them about a month and every day he felt more certain she had been truthful and he sensed the year she had been receiving psychological help had prepared her in learning to live with her hurtful past. She seemed to thrive with trust and affection. He did not see any evidence of a troubled mind; and her remorse over the gun ordeal convinced him she did not have evil intent. And still he had felt distrust.

After dinner and dishes, Zack said, I have some news for you both. Why don’t we sit down and rest before homework and reading and I will tell you what I found out today.

They assumed their usual positions in the large sitting area with the fireplace in full flame, crackling and popping and permeating the room with the odor of oak. First, Benny, I went to the high school and talked to the superintendent. I told him where you were in your studies and he wants you to start your freshman year in January. You will have to take some placement tests. By what I told him he thinks you can start second semester algebra without a problem and maybe test out of it and start with calculus. Of course, your classes will depend on how you do on the tests, but I don’t think you will be behind the other students; maybe even further along.

Wow, Dad, thanks for going to the school and I can’t believe I’ll be going there in January. Benny sat on the sofa hugging Rex across his lap.

Now, for you Ashley. She looked at him quietly; her eyes quizzically searching his. I went to the library and searched the papers for any details about your family, a shooting, anyone escaping from the clinic, a young lady missing, and so forth. I found nothing. I had to believe your shot missed and they did not report the incident. Probably they wanted to avoid any bad publicity. But to make sure, I went by the sheriff’s office. I told him about your wreck and some of your story—not about the shooting. He searched police records and your name did not appear. You are of majority and legally on your own. So, I think you are free to go on with your life Ashley.

Ashley sat as if mute. She pushed her hair back from her eyes, but remained slumped in her chair. When she looked up she had tears in her eyes. I don’t know what to say. I’m glad if I missed my father—I regretted it as soon as the gun exploded. It jerked up in my hands. I didn’t even know I pulled the trigger. Oh… . I can’t believe I did it. I want to think I’m not crazy, but the shooting was crazy. So how do I go on with my life? Where do I go? What do I do? It seems so hopeless.

Ashley, you’re not crazy. We can do crazy things without being certifiable. Believe me, I know. After Sandy’s death I shut down. I gave up my profession, my friends; all to heal my son. It sounds heroic perhaps but it wasn’t, it was selfish; my way of handling my guilt. The selfishness kept Benny from developing friends and a full life. However, I have forgiven myself and am ready to move on. You need to forgive yourself so you can too. He stood up and walked over to the fireplace. Looking back towards her, and continued, I went to the vet practice in town, and they have been actively searching for another vet. I’ve decided to break my isolation and go back to work. If you’d like you could be my assistant a few hours a week as you continue your studies at the local college. What do you think?

"I can’t think of anything in the world I would rather do—it would be everything I ever hoped for. Maybe in time I will find peace of mind and a chance for a successful future. I’ve always loved animals; maybe my future career could