All or Nothing at All

Chapter One

Glenn’s mother walked him up the steps of the house his father occupied. After the divorce of his parents when he was the aged of three, his mother took him to live with her. The alimony plus child support helped her to live a modest life.

She had saved quite a bit of that over the next four years and now could continue to live the life she was accustomed without Glenn. He was cramping her style! Who wants a woman with a child.

She called his father and inform him, she was bringing Glenn to live with him. And of course it was alright with him. Less to have to pay her and hopes someone would marry her and cut out the alimony.

She knocked at the door. The maid answered it, informing her that Mr. Lewis was home and took young Glenn’s suitcases. Glenn stared at his mother, as she made her way down the walkway out of his life.

Not a kiss or even a hug goodbye. The maid took him up to his room and placed his belongings inside the drawers and closet. She talked to the little lad while she put up his things, reassuring him he was home to stay.

And that’s the way it was the next few years. She became both mother and father, since his mother was out of it and the father was hardly ever around. She taught Glenn how to cook and sew. He had a little garden she with which she would help him keep up. Glenn developed a talent to draw and would use the maid as his subject many times.

One day his father discovered what the maid had taught him how to cook and sew, firing her. This was heart breaking for Glenn. The next day John made arrangements for Glenn to be sent away to Military school, hoping this would make a man out of him. Glenn was told that he would be leaving the following day. He never said anything. This upset John, as he watched his young son walk away from him in silence.

The next day his father loaded Glenn’s things in the car and drove him to his new school. Glenn never once said a word. John wasn’t so sure of his decision, but what was he to do? That stupid maid made him to feminine.

He didn’t like to do guy things. Instead of joining sports like regular boys, he would rather stay in the house drawing and listening to music Well, now it was up to him to undo what was done. If military school doesn’t do it, then now can.

Glenn spent the next four years of military school, trying to get through the daily harassments he received from the other boys there. Because he wasn’t like them. It grew apparent as he grew older. He wasn’t into the craziness young men do at his age.

He wasn’t into sleeping with the girls like the others did. He didn’t have the conversations of the weekend conquests to boast about on Monday morning. Sure he would talk to them cordially or concerning school work. But he didn’t go out on dates like the others.

He didn’t have a steady girlfriend or saw any he wanted to date. He did have a crush on the school nurse, but she was old enough to be his mother. She would have been a pretty mother too. She didn’t feel for him as he did her. This was his fantasy. But soon she made her reality known to him, he was crush.

John came to Glenn’s graduation and to take him home. He was taken back, how tall Glenn had grown since he last saw him, standing toe to toe with him. Only thing, he was very thin. Like a string bean.

John looked him up and down, complimenting him on how tall he had grown. Glenn half smiled. Now if he could fill out, he could play football. They walked back to Glenn’s room to get his things. John could see Glenn had a chip on his shoulders.

John knew it was because he had sent him away and that he hadn’t visit him once while he was away. He felt Glenn would adjust better. Bad thing was, in the fall he would be shipping him out to the prep school he had attended. An old friend of his, Bob Rogers was the housemaster.

Glenn was quiet on the way home and remained silent when they drove into his home town and as they drove to their house. He got out of the car when it came to an halt in the driveway.

That night they had dinner together. Glenn was silent at the table, playing with a potato in his plate. John ate and occasionally looked up at his son. He got this feeling this wasn’t going to go well. Maybe he should have kept in contact with him while he was away. Now it seems the gap between them, had become a canyon.

Glenn looked up at his father and asked if he could be excused. . John smiled and nodded his head. Did he make a mistake by sending his son away? And if so, what ramifications will come from it?

Glenn rose from the table, gathering his eating tools and headed for the kitchen. John could hear him scraping his plate and washing them. He refrain himself from saying anything. Glenn went up to his room and pulled out his drawing pad. He walked over to the window and sat down to draw.

From that day he and his father hardly communicated. He mostly stayed in his room drawing. Only coming out to eat or going out in the back. His father wasn’t hardly home, as he had been before Glenn left for military school. They had a new maid who knew the rules about Glenn helping with anything around the house. This made the house lonely.

John took Glenn to meet with his friend and see the place he would be staying. Glenn didn’t say much while his father and Mr. Rogers talk over things. He was staring out the window at the beautiful garden and the woman, who was just stunning as the garden she created.

She was a very petite ravened-head woman. She was busy watering her garden, to pay any attention to some one staring at her. John looked at his son, then in the direction he was staring. He shook his head and called to him. Mr. Rogers caught it too.

“That’s my wife, Lacey! John you never met her did you?“ Bob said and walked to the door. Glenn snapped his head in the direction of Mr. Rogers, as he opened the door.

“Hey Lacey! Come in here. Meet my old friend John and his son who, will be rooming with us in the fall!” He called to her to join them, excitedly. She quickly came into the house. She was even more beautiful up close.

“Lacey, this is my friend John and his son Glenn! John, this is Lacey my wife!” He introduced them. Glenn couldn’t take his eyes from her.

“Hello John! Nice meeting you. And hello Glenn! I hope you have a wonderful stay here in the fall.” She greeted them. John was impress with her. He felt Bob was a very lucky man. Not like that poor excuse for a woman he had married.

“Hello Lacey! Nice to meet you! Bob’s a lucky guy!” He said, looking over to Bob.

“Yes, I am!” Bob said proudly, standing next to his wife. Lacey half smiled and looked over to Glenn.

“Hello Ma’am.” Glenn finally responded. She smiled. What a nice young man and very gentle, but also a little reserved she thought. She decided to offer them something.

“Would you like a drink, John. And maybe some tea for Glenn?” She started for the kitchen.

“Yes, Please!“ John called after her. Glenn didn’t reply. He was wondering what a wonderful woman like her would be with someone like Mr. Rogers. She was in the kitchen for few minutes, while John and Bob went over the curriculum. Then she walked back in with a small tray with three drinks. She handed Bob and John their drinks then walked over to Glenn who shyly took the glass of tea. She smiled at him.

“Well it’s been nice, I must go now. And once again, welcome Glenn.” She said, then left. John acknowledged her leave and turned towards Bob, as they discussed his son. Glenn stared after her and thought she was even nicer than he had thought.

Chapter Two

Fall came quickly. Glenn was placed in a room with another but older young man. His name was Allen. They hit it off very well. While Glenn mainly stayed to himself as he has often done when in school. Allen was able to get him to do some things.

“Hey Glenn! We’re having this big game followed by a big festival this weekend. you going?” Allen asked. Glenn looked up from his drawing at his roommate.

“I guess! Let me think about it.” Glenn said then continued with his drawing. Mrs. Rogers was out in her garden, watering her plants. Glenn knew her routine and always made it a point to be there at his window at this same time everyday.

Glenn went to the game, then festival with Allen. Once at the festival they split up. Glenn walked around taking in the festivities. He got him a cotton candy and walked around eating it.

Then he saw Mr. and Mrs. Rogers. At the same time, her eye caught sight of him. She walked over to him. Bob followed.

“Glenn! I see you made it. That‘s good, I was getting worried about you.” He looked at Glenn, as if warning him. Lacey turned to her husband. His father had filled Bob in on the problems he has had with Glenn. Bob felt he wasn’t going to go through that.

“Yes Sir! Allen asked me, but he’s with his friends now.” Glenn explained to him. Bob stared for a few more moments, then nodded his head.

“Okay! I just don’t want the repeat of past years. You need to get out and join some clubs as your father told you. Maybe get into some sports while you’re at it.“ Bob began to instruct him. Lacey was getting annoyed with her husband.

“Yes Sir!” Glenn answered. Bob seemed restless. He was looking around, as if searching for something. Mrs. Rogers looked at him, then seemed to become saddened. She then cast her eyes to the ground. Bob looked over to her.

“I’m going to find the boys and see what they’re up to. See you back at the house.” He told her.

“Okay honey! I think I’ll walk around a little more.” She told him. He looked at her then away nodding his head, as if searching for something. Then he looked at Glenn.

“Young man! Would you mind escorting my wife? I would feel better, if someone was watching over her.” He asked Glenn, who was at a lost for words.

“No Bob! The last thing he needs is an old wheel to watch after.” She interjected. Glenn looked surprised.

“Oh No! I wouldn’t mind accompanying Mrs. Rogers, Sir! And I’ll make sure she gets home safely.” Glenn jumped at the opportunity to be alone with this woman.

“Thanks Glenn! I’ll see you at home, honey.” He said, giving her a peck on the cheek. Mrs. Rogers and Glenn watched, as he walked away and disappeared in the crowd.

“Well, what would you like to do?” Glenn asked, looking into her deep dark brown eyes for the first time. She was even more beautiful up close. She smiled at him, realizing he was as huge as his father. But he had this gentle spirit about him.

“Are you hungry?” She asked. He smiled and nodded.

“A little! What would you like?” He asked.

“What else, but a hot dog and coke.” She replied. Glenn offered her his arm. She looked at it, then him.

“My, aren’t you the gentlemen.” She told him, hooking he arm in his. He smiled and lead her through the crowd.

They got something to eat, then found a nice quiet place from the crowd. They sat down and ate their hot dogs, watching the interaction of the people at the festival.

“You are so different from most of the boys in the house. Well, most of the boys in this town, if I must say.” She took a sip of coke, staring up at him. Glenn looked over the ground, holding his can.

“Yeah, I know. It’s the reason why my father brought me here. He doesn’t think I’m man enough.” Glenn revealed to her. He found her very easy to talk to. She frowned.

“What does that mean?” She asked. Glenn looked at her.

“Oh come on Mrs. Rogers. I know Mr. Rogers told you what my father had to say about me. His girlie-like son.” Glenn said, not looking at her.

“I don’t take to rumors or gossip. Not much to them.” She told him. He looked down at the ground.

“And besides, with your age at the time or even now. I’m not sure you would have been or could be much of man. Now can you?” She said, taking another sip. Glenn looked over to her. He thought for a moment, then smiled and nodded his head.

How much of man can a 13 year old child be? Or even at 17 yrs. Life makes you that and he hasn’t had much to challenge him as of yet. She thought.

“I guess I was too young to realize that at the time. But now that you mention it. I guess so.” Glenn raised up and leaned back in his seat.

“So how long have you been married? If I may ask.” Glenn changed the conversation from him to her. She stood to her feet and walked a little distance away from him.

“About a year. Our anniversary is next month. But from the way things are going, I doubt if it’ll make much difference.” She said sadly. Glenn stood to his full height, towering over her. He reached to touch her, but she turned to him. He pulled his hand back, before she could see.

“If you don’t mind. I would like to go now. Have fun.” She said and started towards her house. Glenn took off after her.

“Mrs. Rogers! I’ll walk you home. I had enough of this too.” He said, catching up with her. She smiled and nodded.

“Okay! If you’re sure.” She said. He offered her his arm, she took it and they left the festival. Glenn walked her to her porch.

“Thank you Glenn! You are very nice. Good night.” She said, opening and entering her house, with Glenn behind her.

“If you were my wife. I wouldn’t have left you alone with another man!” Glenn said and ran upstairs to his room. She stared at him speechless, then smiled.

Glenn was in his room, when he heard a group of guys coming upstairs. It was most of the guys in the house. Allen came into Glenn’s room.

“Glenn, we’re going to hang out at the diner for a while. Come with us.” Allen said and lead him away before he could say anything.

Mrs. Rogers was putting a pot of water on the stove for some tea when she heard the commotion. She just smiled and shook her head. Young people. Bob should be coming in soon.

Chapter Three

Glenn accompany Allen and the other boys to the local diner. This was where the hung out the most. Glenn headed straight for the counter and took a seat. Allen watched the other boys, tease the waitress. Dancing around her and making little remarks. She brushed them off and laughed. Glenn watched the horse play for a while, then turned to the man behind the counter and ordered a milkshake.

“Glenn! Come over here and join us. Allen called to him. Glenn took his shake and went to sit with the others.

“That Josie is something else.” Orson said, staring at her as she went about her way.

“Yeah! I heard Tad had a date with her if you know what I mean.” The someone said. The boys looked at each other and laughed. Glenn looked at the woman and wondered why these guys were being so cruel.

“So Glenn! Found any sweeties you would like to get to know?” Ross asked. Glenn looked back at him.

“No! Not yet!” He learned to answer questions and not to lead to more. At least he hoped.

“Well, you might want to spend some time with Josie, until you find a nice girl with who you want to make a girlfriend. You know what I mean?” He said, nudging the guy next to him. Then they started to laugh. Glenn looked him straight in the face.

“Sorry! I don’t know what you mean.” Glenn replied. Allen sort of shifted in his seat. The Orson looked at Glenn, then the one next to him.

“He means make a date! You know!” Allen trying to be tactful. Glenn’s eyes lit up. He understood to well.

“Oh that!” Glenn said and the others laughed. He was a strange one.

“Hey Josie! Come meet the new kid in town.” Ross beckoned to her. She sauntered over to were the group sat. Glenn grew flustered, staring at his shake. She stood next to Glenn, breast right at his eyes.

“This is Glenn. Maybe you can help him out.” Orson said and the others laughed.

“You’re a cutie and as big. I hope that goes for everything else.” She began to run her hands through Glenn’s curly brown hair. He became very uncomfortable with her touching him.

“Nice to meet you Josie. Allen I’m going to go home now.” Glenn turned to his friend.

“Sure Glenn! See you at home.” He looked said, feeling bad for Glenn. Sometimes these guys could be such idiots. Glenn rose out of his seat and brushed pass Josie quickly, heading out the door.

“What was that all about?” Josie looked at Glenn running out of the diner like a bat out of hell.

“It’s been a long week. He’s just tired.” Allen blew it off. Josie shrugged, then went back to what she was doing. Allen didn’t look up. He knew what they were thinking and didn’t want to get into it. But one wouldn’t let it go.

“He’s a strange one!” Ross said, turning back to the others. Everyone sat in silence but their eyes said it all.

Sheila Hanes sat at her computer in her office, going over some evidence that had been faxed to her from a friend in the FBI! It was a cold case from seven years earlier. Her father’s death.

He had been killed while she was away at boarding school at the age of seventeen. Her uncle who was in the navy at the time, came home for the funeral and took over her guardianship. When she turned eighteen, she ran away and disappeared without a trace.

She had to for the sake of her family, for what she was planning. Her Uncle hired many private investigators to find her. But no matter how much he searched for her, it was futile. He gave up any hopes she was still alive.

Little did he know, she had became a private Detective. First she went to work for one and he helped her to cover her tracks, buy getting a new identity. He was willing to help her find her father’s killer. His name was David Strong. They became very close, to the point they moved in together. They decided to get married. But that was not meant to be.

“Sheila baby!” David said through the phone She sat in her most sexy night attire awaiting for him to come home, but soon became disappointed when he called. She knew then he would be coming home late.

“Yes, My love!” She replied. The silence on the other end alarmed her.

“David! Is everything alright?” She asked, coming to her feet.

“Oh yes! Yes! Everything is just fine. Look, I’m going to have to be late. It’s a lead on that case I was working on. The cold one!” Him saying that last part, confirmed that something was terribly wrong. He never called it cold case, it was always her father’s case. She played along.

“Okay my love! I’ll see you when you get home!” She said to him, less he was on speaker phone and someone was listening. She tossed off her robe and pulled off her gown while she talked to him.

“Sheila! I love you baby! With all my heart! Always remember that!” His voice was strangely sad. This made tears form in her eyes. She knew now no matter what she did to try and save him. There was nothing she could do, but it wasn’t going to stop her from trying.

“I love you too, My Darling Man!” She told him as the phone click. She quickly called the police station and got a hold of his friend there name Lt. Paul Graves.

“Paul! I think David is in big trouble. he just called form his office and his voice!“ She told him. He trusted her instincts and quickly hung up, gathering some men and rushed over to David’s office. Sheila dressed and opened her drawer, taking out her revolver. She didn’t know if she would be needing it or not. Her motto was ‘Never leave home without it.’

She drove like a mad woman, to save the man she loved. But as she drove up to the building the office was in, the police were everywhere. She jumped from her car, running into the building and up the stairs. Lt. Paul Graves was coming out of the office, when he saw her running down the hall. He blocked her advance, grabbing her in his arms.

“I’m sorry Sheila! I’m so sorry! Dave’s gone!“ He said holding back the tears. She looked into his eyes, hoping this was a bad joke. But found the sorrow for his best friend in them. She snatched away and ran into the office, to see him lying there in his blood. He had been shot through the heart.

She fell to his side and screamed in agony. Paul walked to a far wall and leaned against it, pulling out a cigarette and lit it. He took a long pull, then allowed it to ease pass his lips. The tears fell for a friend lost and the cry of his best friend’s woman mourning him. The same woman with whom he had fell in love.

Sheila buried David with Paul at her side everyday of planning and after wards. Then she resumed the case of her father‘s along with David‘s. She was more determined, to find the one or ones responsible for the lost of the two men she had loved. David had gotten to close. She had to figure out what was the final piece that cost him his life.

It had been nearly a seven months since David’s death. Paul had graduated to FBI and moved out of the city. But he was just a call away. One day, as she was running through the park. A man standing at a trash can, turned and she ran into him. She fell backwards on her butt.

The man wasn’t phased. He was as huge as a football player. He had dark brown hair and crystal blue eyes. She gathered herself and started to pick herself up, when she felt herself being lifted. She looked into the man’s face who had her arm. She was mesmerized by the color of his eyes.

“Sorry! I should look where I’m turning.“ He said, removing his hand from her arm. She adjusted her clothes, brushing more than her pride off her jogging suit.

“No! I’m sorry! I should have paid more attention to where I was running.“ She said, looking away. He smiled and a beautiful one at that. He was well dressed, very classy.

“Okay, now that we have apologized to each other and accepted the fact we both should be more observant to our surroundings. Where do we go from here?“ He asked. She was speechless. She had never had anyone come on to her like this before.

Besides David falling in love with her and getting with her, most men don’t find her the girlfriend type. Mostly as one of the boys, because the way she carried herself. She wasn’t the Miss Prissy type or Lady-like.

Nor was she the type of woman who used her access to get what they wanted. She was self sufficient. And was very skilled in the martial arts. She was a skilled marksman also. So men were very intimidated by her.

“I don’t know where you’re going, but I have to get home.“ She was firm, but polite. He continued to smiled. Most women would have jumped at the offer to do something with him.

“I see you’re going to play hard to get!“ He stated. The smile left her face and polite was gone!

“Look Mister! I don’t know who you think you are, but I don’t really care. I don’t play when it comes to the things of the heart. And hard, I wouldn’t play with you anyway. I just wouldn’t play. I hope you love your company.“ She said, annoyed. He looked in her eyes and saw she was not playing.

“My company?“ He looked around to see if anyone besides them were in the vicinity.

“You and yourself! Because it’s clear you’re stuck on you!“ She explained then, took off running down the path way. He stood there registering what she had just said to him. Yeah, she is everything he had thought. He beckoned to a man concealed behind trees.

“Yeah boss?“ The other asked, running up to join him.

“I don’t want to spook her. This one will take a little more time than expected. But it will be worth it. In more ways than one.“ He smiled and pulled a case from his coat pocket, opened it and took a cigar. He walked over to a bench and took a seat, crossing his leg over the other. He looked up at the other.

“Here‘s what I want you to do! Keep an close eye on her. I want to know if there is something that was overlooked. Like a man friend or someone closer.” He instructed him as he bit the end off the cigar and spit it out.

He watched the man leave, then popped the lid of a lighter open and lit the end of his cigar. He took in the smoke and savored the taste, before softly blowing it out. At first this was business, now its also going to be pleasure. He wanted this one for himself. He would have to plan this out just right. Her life depended on it.

Chapter Four

Everyday for three weeks, Sheila would run down the path to find him sitting and waiting for her. The first two times she saw him, she stopped and stared. He said hello, she nodded and took off running.

He smiled, knowing it wouldn’t be long before she gave in. After three weeks of her running right pass him, without acknowledgment became very discouraging for him. But finally his persistence paid off.

“Okay! I see we’re going to do this for I don’t know how long. What is it you want from me?“ She was very annoyed. He gave her a sweet innocent smile.

“Just go out with me! I find you very fascinating. I have since that first day. You’re not most women I have known.“ He was being very honest with her. She was smart enough to catch it if he wasn’t. But whatever brought him to her, was not important now. She had captured his heart.

“What?“ Sheila couldn’t believe someone would stalk her for just a date.

“A date!“ He confirmed what he had said. Sheila walked away from him, then turned and came back. She looked into his mesmerizing eyes, searching for anything deceptive. She only found something she hadn’t seen since David. She felt a little flustered and turned away.

“If I do this! Will you then leave me alone?“ She asked, not looking back at him. She wasn’t ready for anything close. She didn’t even know this man’s name.

“My name is Chase Benson!“ He said. She turned, staring at him and surprised he had caught her thoughts.

“What?” She was startled. He smiled.

“If you’re going to accept my invitation, you should know the name of the man you will be going out with.” He walked towards her and towered over her. She was tall, but next to him she looked short.

“Oh, okay! My name is Sheila Hanes. And I’ll go out with you, only if you’ll stop sitting and waiting for me here.” She agreed to the date. He smiled, happy he had finally succeed.

“I promise Sheila!” It felt good to say her name. She looked at him and nodded.

“Saturday at seven!” I’ll send a car for you! May I have your address? He waited for her response.

“No! You tell me where to meet you and I’ll drive there.” She informed him. He stared at her for a few moments, then understood. She had passed another test to prove she wasn’t like anyone he had been with.

“Fair enough! Here, see you at this address on Saturday at seven!” He handed her a card. She took it and looked it over. Her body slightly shuddered. This is were her father had died. She looked up at him, concealing her thoughts.

“Seven it is!” She said, turned and ran down the path. He stood for a long while, watching were she had disappeared. Then he turned and walked to a car parked at the curve.

Sheila had pretended to leave, circling back to hide in the trees. She followed him and watched him get into a limo. She memorized the license plate number. She would check it out and see who is this Chase Benson.

Sheila went home and picked out something appropriate for the evening. She wasn’t use to going to plush restaurants as this one. She had passed by it many times and could only guess what it would cost to eat there.

David and her would joke at the stiff necks entering, as they went to eat at something more affordable. Her heart flickered when she thought of David. Her eyes went misty blue. Like one of her favorite songs. David and her would dance many nights to that song.

She took a deep breath and released it slowly. This was a big night for her. It had been seven months, since she has been in the company of a man who wasn’t a friend. She took out a button white blouse and her dress up pant suit. She brought out a pair of open toe heels, with matching purse.

She decided to wear her hair up and keep it simple in the accessories. The time came for her to get ready. She grew more nervous as the time pass by. Finally she stared at herself in the mirror and didn’t know this woman. She turned away and grabbing her purse form the bed, headed out to the unknown.

She pulled up to the restaurant and wondered why would her father be in a place like this on his salary. The valet walked up to her car and opened the door for her. She gather her things and stepped out, taking a long hard look at this place. She hoped she wasn‘t making a big mistake. She knew nothing of this man. She was brought out of her thoughts by the valet asking her something.

“Yes?” She turned to face him. He was holding out his hand. She got it and handed him the keys. She wasn’t sure she was dressed to empress, since she didn’t do much going out. And certainly not in an establishment as this. She hadn’t hit the first step, when Chase appeared at the top.

“Damn! He must have been staring out the window!” She mumbled to herself, as she made her way up to join him.

“My, my! You do look lovely!” He complimented her, amazed at the transformation from the usual jogging suits he has seen her in, to what she was now wearing.

“You look nice yourself! But then you have had the advantage over me, since you have only seen me in jogging suits and you have always been dressed to kill.” She said this with a hint of sarcasm. He laughed lightly. She has a sense of humor.

“Come with me! Our table is awaiting us.” He held his arm up for her. She looked at his arm, then at him. His eyebrow raised, she got it. She hooked her arm in his. He lead her to a private spot overlooking the rest of the restaurant. The placed some wine on the table.

“I don’t drink! Is that a strike against me?” She informed him. He sat back and gazed on her.

“Not a drinker huh? What would you like?” He asked, pouring himself some wine. She shifted in her chair and thought she didn’t want to seem difficult. After all he was trying.

“Okay! Just a little!” She conceded. He leaned in to her, very seriously.

“You never have to do anything you don’t want to do! Alright?” He told her. She stared into his eyes, seeing he was very serious. She nodded her head.

“Alright! If I could have some ale, would be fine. Thank you!“ She told him. The smile she had been use to seeing, came back on his face. He called for the waiter and told him to bring her a large bottle of ale. She viewed him with a different outlook.

“If you don’t mind! I had them to prepare us a very special course tonight. Trust me!” He told her, watching her sip her ale. She took the glass from her lips and arched her eyebrows.

“Okay! But remember, you’re still in the impressing mode tonight. This date can decide if there be another one.” She informed him.

He chuckled and sat back in his seat, admiring this woman across him. Then a thought came into his head, reminding him of the way things really are. He threw it out of his mind. This was their night and nothing was going to spoil it.

They ate their meal and conversed with each other, finding they were opposites. She found him to be a very refined man. Not rough around the edges like her. She could play act the classiness, but was more at home being herself.

He like the suits and finer things in life. She was fine wearing a T-shirt and jeans. Bu the peaked her interest. She had a very nice time. Something she hadn’t had since David’s death. She let him know she was ready to leave. He didn’t want it to end, but didn’t press her. He wanted to see her again.

“So did I impress enough, for me to see you again?” He asked, walking her to the curve. He beckoned for the valet to bring her car. He turned to her, wanting a answer.

“If I say no, will that mean you’ll be sitting in the park waiting for me?” She looked back at him. He tossed his head back and let out a loud laugh. She found it pleasing and couldn‘t help but laugh herself.

“No! I won’t do that anymore. You were gracious enough to dine with me tonight. So whatever your answer, I will sadly or happily except.” He gazed into her eyes, falling for her in a huge way. The valet drove her car up. She walked to the drivers side, not saying a word. She took her from the valet and opened her car door. Chase watched her from the curve. She looked at him.

“Sure! Look down at the ground!” She said, then jumped in her car and watched him pick up the piece of paper at his foot, she had dropped. He opened it up and saw the number on it. He looked at her and saw the devious smile etched on her face, as she drove away. He let out a chuckle. He hadn’t laughed or smiled like this in years.

Chapter Five

Over the next several months, they saw each other as much as they could. Soon he asked her to marry him. The said their wedding vows before a minister and a couple of strangers as witnesses.

Sheila knew he was well off, but had no idea he was this rich. She had to get use to this life. She kept her private investigation business He had suggested she worked from home, but she told him it felt good leaving the house like she was going out to a job.
And bedsides, she had important information she didn’t want anyone to accidentally come across. He as always didn’t press her. He loved her and would do anything for her. He hoped this would be enough to protect her.

One night she got an faxed from a friend who worked with the FBI! Paul! He came across a name that might be useful and sent it to her. That’s where everything went wrong! He knew this name would hurt her, since it was someone she knew well.

He was all for helping as much as he could to help her find the killers of both her father and his best friend David. Since it was a cold case and out of his jurisdiction, he sent her information secretly. But warned her if she got some solid evidence to contact him.

The name he sent was none other than her husband Chase Hanes! The man she had married was the shooter in her father’s death. How could this be? It had to be wrong. It was four hours, she stared at the name and hoped her eyes were mistaken. She rose from her desk and went to the window, staring out into the night. What was she going to do? Further investigation was needed.

She did some further investigation with the information Paul had sent and found that Chase was indeed the owner of that restaurant the night her father died and that they had been spotted talking together on numerous occasions. So it was true!

She had married the man who murdered her father. But why did he kill him? And what was her father’s connection in all of this? She didn’t know, but would find out. It will take her to continue loving him and being his wife, until this could be sorted out.

The next morning she walked though the huge mansion, she had lived for the last seven months. They had been happy ones. Sheila sat down and thought about who is she. She’s twenty-four years old and been on her own since the death of her father. Her mother died at child birth. She does have an Uncle, but can’t involve him in this mess.

“What were you into Daddy?” She wondered if her uncle knew something, but didn’t tell her. They were close and told each other everything. She hasn’t seen her uncle in several years. She heard he had gotten married a year ago. She can only imagine what a tongue lashing he would give her, if she showed up unannounced. But that would be the only way she could go there.

She would have to cover her tracks. This time would be easier than before. Since the person she is now is a fabrication and the person she once had been was real, but not known by anyone she knew. No one knows her real name, thanks to David.

She can’t do anything more until she get to her uncle and find out what he knows about what her father was doing before his death. This left her at an en passe. If her husband killed her father. She would have to decide if she avenge her father’s death by killing her husband, the man she has grown to love. Or turn him in, where he will no doubt get off, coming after her uncle and her.

She decided she should just leave and go to her uncle. He could supply her with some helpful information. And the place he lives, would serve as a good place to hide. At least until she can sort out everything. And decide what she will do.

She waited until she knew he would be out of town on one of his business trips. She planned her death. She packed her bags and had them sent on. Then she cleared everything out of her office that could be trace to this case and took the information out of the computer’s memory.

Downloaded everything off her computer onto a floppy disc. They will come into good use later. Now to resume the name she left behind seven years ago. She faked her death. That will buy her sometime.

She drove her car off a cliff and into the ocean. They’ll find the car, but no body. She burned her credit cards. She won’t be using them anymore. Sheila Hanes-Benson was no more.

She caught the bus, using only cash. Too easy to trace her. Sheila stepped off the bus and looked around. It was just as she expected. She got in the taxi, giving him the address to where she wanted to go. It didn’t take long to get where she had to go. It was a very small community.

She paid the taxi after he had helped carry her bags. She knocked at the door. Someone came running out of the house and told her go in, that everyone had gone to the beach. She went in and her eyes fell directly on one of the doors. Something was written on it.

‘Sissy Boy!’ She shrugged her shoulders and looked to her left, seeing her Uncle’s name on that door.

She gather it was the part of the house he lived. She knocked on it, hoping that someone was there after all. No answer. She sat her luggage in a corner and left the house. She might as well take a walk and get the location of everything.
After all she will be part of this quaint community for who knows how long.

Lacey carried her groceries into the house and headed for her door, when he eyes saw something unusual out the corner of her eyes. She looked up at Glenn and Allen’s door. There were writing on it.

‘Sissy Boy!’

She quickly opened the door and rushed in, heading for the kitchen to get something to wipe it off, before Glenn made it home. Just as she was going out the door, Glenn had come home and was standing on the stairs, looking at what was written about him. He slightly looked at her, but she had turned quickly and went back in her house. She didn‘t want to embarrass him any further than he already had. . Glenn ran up the stairs and wiped off the chalked words, then went in his room, slamming the door behind him.

At that moment his room make Allen came out of his room wondering what was going on. Then a bunch of guys came in yelling about get the binoculars and ran towards Glenn’s room. He tried to keep them from entering but they over powered him,. Allen just looked at them and shaking his head, as they ran to the window to get a peek at the lady dressing next door.

“Why do you peeping toms, have to come in here in my room and messing it up, hanging out the window everyday?” He yelled at them uselessly. Then he turned to Allen!

“Allen why do these peeping toms have to come in here everyday?“ He was angry. Allen was a few year older than Glenn. She became frustrated.

“Why don’t you guys stick with your girlie magazines?“ He yelled at them. One turned to him.

“Hey look sissy boy! Just because you’re not interested, don’t spoil it for the rest of us!“ Glenn’s anger over ruled his senses. He grabbed one of the boys from the window and tossed him across the room.

“Get out! Get out!“ He yelled grabbing another. Two older boys jumped him sending him to the bed. One hit him in the eye. Allen came to help him.

“Alright! Alright! Let’s go!“ He said, shoving everyone out the room. Glenn laid on his bed, holding his eyes.

“Are you alright?“ He asked. Glenn nodded and just laid there. Allen stared at him for a few moments than slowly walked out of his room, shutting the door. Glenn turned over and began to cry.

Chapter Six

Sheila was headed back to her Uncle’s house. As she came down the street, she heard some commotion and looked up at a window in the back of the house. She saw a bunch of boys hanging out the window, with some binoculars. She looked to where they were staring and could see a figure in the window of a house down the street.

She shook her head. Boys! This should be very interesting, living in a house full of horny boys. She started up the walkway and was on the porch, just as the door flew open and nearly knocked her down. The gang of boys poured through the door. As she said, very interesting.

One stopped and looked at her for an instant, with a sinister smile and then followed his comrades. She went inside the house and looked at the door that had been written on, the words had been taken off. She started to knock on the door, when a nice looking young man slowly walked down the stairs. He seemed to have something on his mind.

“Hello! Do you know if Mr. Roger’s is home or not?” She asked, him as he made it to the ground floor. He looked her over and thought she was pretty. She was tall but a little shorter than him.
“I think Mrs. Rogers is there.” He answered and walked knocked at the door before she could stop him. She wasn’t ready for the reunion or in this case introduction. She took a deep breath, then blowing it out

A voice said something from the other side just a little before the door opened. Sheila stared at the woman just beyond the door. She was much shorter than her but a beauty, with the shiniest raven hair she has ever seen.

“Hi Allen! What can I do for you?” She was very polite.

“Hi, Mrs. Rogers. Nothing for me! This lady is looking for Mr. Rogers.“ He explained. Lacey looked from Allen and gave the pretty young woman her a strange looked. But remain the courteous.

“He’s not here right now. I am expecting him soon though. Would like to wait for him?” She asked. Lacey thought she seemed a little edgy.

“I can wait! You must be Lacey!” Sheila asked. Lacey tilted her head to the side, wondering who is this young woman who knows her.

“Yes, I am! But I’m at a disadvantage. You know who I am, but I haven’t slightest clue who you are.” She walked closer to this young woman. Sheila smiled and started to tell her when, the front door opened. It was Bob.

“Oh Lacey! I’m going.............!” He stopped in mid sentence, as his eyes fell on the tall red head standing at his door. She turned to look at him. Sheila’s expression became like a little child before her Uncle. Lacey looked from the girl to her husband, confused. Allen sat down on the stairs, curious to what was going on.

“Hi Uncle Bob!” Sheila broke the ice. Bob couldn’t register what all this meant. Here was his niece, he had search for so long and thought dead. Standing just a foot away from him. It was all he could do, to keep from crying. Instead he opened his arms and she flew into them without another hesitation.

Lacey’s hands flew up to her mouth. Why didn’t she see the resemblance? Allen was taking all of this in. That’s when Bob noticed him and suggested they take this inside. Allen ran back up stairs to tell Glenn. This may take his mind off the harassment.

When they got behind close doors, old Bob came through loud and clear. He grabbed her by the arms and showed her a chair. The joy on his face turned to anger.

“Where in the hell have you been al these years?” He started. Sheila began to cry and nearly passed out. Lacey gasped and ran to the kitchen to get her some water. She was feeling overwhelmed. It had been a long time, since she had been near him. Lacey handed her the glass of water.

“Here dear, drink this! Bob can‘t this wait? She clearly has been through something.“ Lacey pleaded with him. He looked at his niece and could only wonder what her life had been like for the last seven years. The important thing is she’s here and safe.

“I need a favor from you Uncle! I didn’t know where else to go!” She said, drinking the glass of water Lacey had given her.

“If you’re asking about staying here, there is no question. You’re home and I’m not letting you get away this time!“ He was still trying to overcome his anger. Sheila looked up in her Uncle’s eyes. He then realized she was in trouble.

“Thank you Uncle! Thank you! I felt it was time we were together, as my father would had wanted us. If I can get some rest, I’ll tell you everything” She told him. At that time, Glenn came to the door.

Lacey went to see what he wanted. Bob looked annoyed. Glenn came in and looked over at Bob, then down at the beautiful red head. She was young but older than him.

“Glenn come in and meet a new addition to the household. Bob’s niece! Sheila this is Glenn! He’s one of our young men who is rooming here. Glenn this is Bob’s niece Sheila!” Lacey introduced them. Bob didn’t look at Glenn. He was still angry from the afternoon.

“Hello Glenn! Nice to meet you?” She said to him. He was very tall, but slender. That will change as he grow older. Not bad! Not bad at all. He seemed very shy, but it was something about the way he looked at you that caught her.

“Hi Sheila!” Glenn said shyly. Sheila smiled.

“Do you have any luggage?” Bob interrupted the getting acquainted fest.

“It’s just outside your door, in the corner.” She told him. Glenn turned and ran outside to get them before Bob could flinch.

Sheila smiled. He was sweet. Bob looked over at Lacey, scowling. Lacey half smiled. Sheila caught this and looked away. Her uncle hadn‘t changed since she last saw him.

“I’ll take you to the room you’ll be staying.” Bob told her and helped her to her feet, taking her to the room she will be staying downstairs in the back of their part of the rooming house. Glenn continued to bring in the luggage, five in all.

Chapter Seven

After two days of rest. Sheila woke to find Lacey in the kitchen, getting some breakfast together for Sheila. Her and Bob had allowed her to sleep in while they went to the Dining Hall. Bob went on to teach a class and other things. Lacey looked up to see a drowsy Sheila walking into the kitchen.

“Did you have a good sleep?“ She asked, pouring a cup of coffee and handing it to her. Sheila took the cup and sipped from it.

“Yes! How many days has it been?“ She asked, knowing she had been out for a while.

“Exactly two. Your Uncle felt it was best to let you sleep.“ Lacey said and prepared her a plate. Sheila looked at this woman her Uncle had married and wondered, how such a delicate Lady could be with someone like her Uncle.

“If you ever need to talk Sheila. I’m here for you.“ Lacey leaned against the counter, watching Sheila pick apart the bacon and consume it. Lacey noticed how Sheila sat while she ate and her whole mannerism. Dainty didn’t come to mind.

“Thanks! I appreciate that! So what do the kids do for fun around here?“ She looked at her. Lacey smiled.

“They have this diner that the hang out. It’s just around the corner. Only thing is this is a school for boys, so there aren’t any young ladies here. Except for the waitress over there.“ Lacey explained. Sheila listened and nodded her head as she finished her plate.

“Those little crumb snatchers running around here like a pack of pups?” Sheila looked at Lacey with a straight face. Lacey wanted to laugh, she hadn’t heard them described in that manner. She saw Sheila was very serious. They had left a very bad first impression.

“Yes they can be a handful!” Lacey said and started out the kitchen. Sheila jumped off the stool and followed her.

“Really?” Sheila said and went into deep thought. Lacey looked back at her and gather something was going on.

“What?” She asked. Sheila looked at her.

“Nothing! Just thinking of what to do today. I don’t want to make an appearance at the diner just yet. I need to get the feel of everybody first.” Sheila told her and drank from the cup of coffee.

“Okay! I’m going out with a couple of the faculty wives, will you like to join us?” Lacey asked. Sheila’s eyes enlarged.

“Oh no, no! You ladies go do what you have to do. I’ll just hang out around here. The peace and quiet will do me some good.” Sheila didn’t want to get caught up with the hens. Excluding her Lacey.

“Yeah! If I wasn’t part of the faculty wives club, I wouldn’t be hanging out with them either.” Lacey was being honest. Sheila looked at her and was liking her more and more. A lady but truthful. She liked that.

Sheila took a stroll out in the garden, admiring how will it was kept. She sat down on some steps and laid back, enjoying the sun coming down. She decided to take her blouse and pants off and bathe in the sun.

Then the private detective kicked in when she felt like she was being watched. She slowly opened her eyes and looked up at the window and saw someone just beyond the window.

“You don’t have to do that peeping tom thing with me. I’ll let you look free. All you can take!” She said and sat up, staring in the window. A head eased out form the dark room.

“I wasn’t peeping. I was drawing you!” Glenn stuttered. She looked at him and remember the young man who had brought her luggage in.

“Really? Can I see what you have done?” She stood up and walked to his window. He tossed his etching pad to the ground and jumped out of the window. Sheila jumped back, out of the way and gasped. She thought he was going to hurt himself.

“Whoa! Be careful!” She yelled at him. Glenn smiled shyly.

“I do that all time, whenever I see Mrs. Rogers out in her garden and needing help!” He explained, picking the pad up and handed it to her. She took it and gazed upon the amazing likeness of her.

“You are very talented. This is really good!” She looked up at him, then back to the pad.

“Thank you! I like drawing beautiful things.” He told her, casting his eyes to the ground. She looked up at him and found him to be one of the most interesting people around there. Besides her Aunt-in-law.

Chapter Eight

Saturday had come and supposedly going to be a big day for the school. Something about a the class reunion and some of the alumni going to be there all day. And topping the day with some bonfire.

She had been at her Uncle’s for three days, with most of her time sleeping. She didn’t know how tired she had been, so much had happened in the last several years, things would finally take their toll on her. Her Uncle and Aunt would eat supper, at this dinner hall on the campus. She think everyone did.

She wasn’t ready to mingle with the locals as yet. She would get something from the diner and eat home. She was sitting in the living room and going over some of her paperwork, when he Aunt came downstairs.

“Good Morning Sheila! How are you feeling?” Lacey asked, as she swung her sweater around her shoulder. She looked up at her from her work.

“I’m feeling a lot better. Thank you! My Uncle went out early I see.“ Sheila knew there were some tension in the house, but decided to stay out of it. She has a lot on her plate already. No need getting caught between anyone else’s problems. Her Uncle was a fool, if he let this prize get away.

“So you and my Uncle Bob, never received a letter from me last fall?” Sheila knew her Uncle was thorough. He would have kept every and any letter she or her Dad had sent him.

“No we never did, Honey!” She looked over to her. Sheila had to come up with a way to find out exactly where her Uncle kept all his letters.

“Yeah, it probably got lost. Knowing my Uncle he would have every letter from Dad and me locked away.” Sheila laughed. Lacey joined her knowingly.

“Yes! You know your Uncle too well! He has every letter tucked away, under the bed under lock and key. You would think they were treasures. And maybe they are now!” Lacey told Sheila, drifting off. Sheila took note of this.

“Yeah! I’m sure he misses my Dad a lot. Not to mention what I took him through!” Sheila told her. Lacey sat down in a chair across form her and leaned in towards Sheila.

“Honey, if you ever need to talk about things. You know you can.” She assured Sheila.

“I know! And one day I may take you up on that!” Sheila smiled at Lacey and took a sip of tea. Lacey stared at her for a moment, then sat back and smiled at this new person, who had come into her life. She was enjoying the bond they were developing, in such a short time. Lacey looked at her watched, realizing the time.

“You have some where to go?” Sheila watched, as Lacey stood to her feet.

“Yes! Some of the boys are playing baseball and Glenn is in a tennis tournament. He is quite good. Would you like to come?” Lacey asked, wanting her to get out of the house. Sheila thought for a second.

“Sure, let me get my sweater.” Lacey watched Sheila go back towards her room. She noticed something about the way Sheila has dressed since her arrival. She has yet to see her in a dress.

She’s always in a shirt and slacks. She wore ankle boots, instead of flats or heels. Her mannerism wasn’t quite on the feminine side either. She just hopes, she doesn’t get put in the same position as poor Glenn.

Sheila had noticed some things in the last few days. One was, how attentive Glenn was towards her Uncle’s wife and her towards him. They seem to have this special bond. And she found out that the ‘Sissy Boy’ remarks were for Glenn. Maybe that’s why Lacey felt she needed to support him.

She noticed who were the ring leaders. One boy named Ross, he was the one who stared at her. And the other was named Orson. Her Uncle could put a stop to it, but he seemed bent on joining the group.

They drove up to the tennis court and the match was already under way. Glenn looked good out there. He would get some beef whenever he scored and Orson who he was playing against, would get loud cheers. She got out of the car and sat on the hood, watching the scenery playing out. She guessed it was the Private Detective in her to get the full story.

“They’re really hard on Glenn! Why Auntie?” She asked. Lacey’s head snapped up at her, stunned. She had never discussed with Sheila what to call her, but evidently Sheila decided it.

“The day you came, we had all been down at the beach. Bob and the other boys were on the other side. Two of the faculty wives and I were in a different part. Glenn joined us instead of Bob and the boys. He was caught showing one of the wives how to secure a button on her husband’s shirt. The boys went back and made a big deal out of it.” She looked away from Glenn and then at Sheila, to see how she took this.

“Is that all? Wow! Why doesn’t my Uncle defuse this thing? He’s the Housemaster. It’s his job, to see that these boys are not mistreated by anyone.” She said this with great conviction. Sheila leaned over the rim of the convertible window and looked down at her Aunt! Then looked back to Glenn.

Her heart went out to him. She noticed he kept looking over at an older man, standing on the side lines. He was an older version of Glenn. Maybe his father. Lacey looked over to Glenn and saw he was a real trooper, he wasn’t allowing them to phase him.

“I totally agree. But you know your Uncle!” She looked over at Glenn, sadly. Sheila nodded, how well did she know her Uncle. He was too much like her father, his older brother.

Sheila watched as a man came up to this man, she assumed was Glenn’s father. And then they both left the tennis match. Sheila could see the disappointment on Glenn’s face, but he went on to finish playing and winning the match and tournament. It seems if her Aunt and Allen hadn’t been there for Glenn, no one would.

John walked through the locker room in search of Glenn. The boys were teasing about how the singles match, was being called a mix match due to Sissy Boy. John was furious. How could Glenn allowed this to get out of hand like this? He found him alone putting on his clothes. He walked up to him.

“Hi Dad!” Glenn said, tying his shoe. John did all he could to refrain himself as he listen to the continued berating of his son. Glenn didn’t seem to pay them any attention.

“I’m sorry I left the match. But you won! I thought maybe having me there would make you nervous.” John trying to smooth over all he had ever been to Glenn.

“It’s okay Dad!” Glenn said getting his shirt.

“The boys seem to have it in for you!” He started. Glenn looked at him and continue to put on his shirt.

“I guess!” Is all he wanted to say. He didn’t want o hear any lectures from his father.

“Why? They seem like the type of guys with who you should be friends.” His father urged on. Glenn shrugged his shoulders. He didn’t want to get into it here.

“It just never stops does it Glenn?” He said. Glenn turned away from him, knowing where this was going.

“Dad!” He said, hoping he got the hint. John backed off and decided to change the subject.

“So the big bonfire tonight, huh? Ready for it?” John lighten up.

“I guess!” Glenn answered, putting his gear into the locker.

“You guess! This is one of the events of the year. Now when Bob and I were in our first year, our class fought the upper class like crazy. Hardly any of us got our pajamas torn off.” He told his son. Glenn stared at his father, nodding.

“That’s nice Dad! I’m ready to go.” Glenn aid and started out the towards the door.

“Wait! The team is this way. I wanted to congratulate them on their win.” John said as he watched Glenn continue out the door.

“Auntie! There was an older gentleman there that looked like an older version of Glenn. Was he his father?” Sheila asked, as she sat in a chair across from Lacey and the two drank tea. Lacey sipped from her cup.

“Yes!” She said, looking away. She knew where this was going.

“Why didn’t he stay to see his son play tennis? What kind of father would not be there for an important day as this?” Sheila shook her head.

Her mind wondered back to her own father and many boarding schools she had attended. She loved her father, but in reality! Now that she is older and see things in a different light. He was made from the same mode, as Glenn’s father. She gained a new understanding of Glenn.

“Sheila! Are you alright?” Lacey saw her expression, go through different phases. Sheila looked at her and smiled.

“I’m alright Auntie!” She told her and leaned back in her chair, sipping her tea.

Chapter Nine

Glenn and John went to the local diner where the boys hung out. John wanted to taste a Sundae he would get there when he attended the school. Glenn watched him eating. Most of the one who were teasing Glenn were in the Diner. Two of them were messing around with the waitress, Josie!

“I remember one of those when I was in school.” He said, looking her up and down when she came over to get an order.

“That’s Josie!” Glenn told him and continue to drink his soda. Then Ross and Orson walked in. One other guy took Josie and started to dance with her against her protest.

“Glenn look at that!” He said smiling at the antics. Glenn looked away. It disturbed him to see them treat women as objects. Then Ross grabbed her and started dancing with her. She struggled to get away.

“Glenn go on! You dance with her.” He said, as she pushed Ross off her and started cursing him.

“Dad! Let’s go!” Glenn said and started out the door. Josie called to them that they hadn’t pay. John took care of it as Glenn walked out the door. One of the guys called to him, but Glenn kept going.

“Glenn! We’ll see you tonight!” He said, watching Glenn ignore him and go out the door.

“I’ll let him know.” John told the boy and followed after his son. John caught up with Glenn.

“You know son! You really need to be a little more friendly than you are.” John told him as they walked down the sidewalk. Then John noticed a barber shop and how long Glenn’s hair had grown.

“Glenn! I want you to go in there and get that hair off your head. I’m going over to Bob’s and talk to him.

“But Dad!” Glenn started, but John stood his ground. Glenn walked into the shop and watched his father disappear down the road.

Sheila had left her Uncle and Aunt’s, just missing John and Glenn leaving the diner. She walked in and stood looking around at all the young puppies in the place. All eyes instantly turn to look at her. Some had heard she was in the house and only a few had got a glance of her. Ross stared the hardest and longest.

She noticed no females in the place, except for the bleach blond waiting tables. She had saw her a few times when she came to pick up her order. She took a seat by the door and waited for Josie to come get her order. She saw her and walked over to her.

“You’re new in town, aren’t ?” She said, waiting for her to order. Sheila looked her up and down. She thought Josie was a caged tiger, that has been de-clawed and de-fanged.

“Yes I am! Could you get me a burger, fries and coke to go please!” She stared at her. Josie memorized it and left her.

“You know you shouldn’t eat junk food. It has a way of added to your figure.” Ross said, coming over to her. The other boys sat around, checking out the new chick getting the Ross initiation. Sheila looked up at him and realized she was going to have to set things straight. If you take down the biggest dog in the pound, the rest will fall right in place.

“Don’t worry! I know how to work it off! Would you like for me to show you?” She leaned over the table, seductively. Ross was stunned at her brassiness. The others made little whoa, like noises.

“Sure, I’m up for anything you got!” Ross not wanting to be out done by this female. Sheila smiled and slowly eased out of the chair, walking between him and the table and jumped up on it! He took a step back, not sure where this was going. He was always the one being the aggressor. But this one showed no intimidation at all.

“Where are you going? I wanted to tell you, how I work it off! That’s all.” She said in her most sexiest voice. The other boys sat with their mouths open. They had never been around a woman like this one before.

Josie stood next to the counter, taking this in. Ross finally came up to her. Without warning, Sheila had wrapped her legs around his waist, grabbing his collar and pulled him to her, bringing his face within inches of hers.

“You like that!“ She whispered in his ear, as their crouches met. The diner was quiet as a church mouse, as everyone watched speechlessly.

Glenn had walked back and forth in front of the barber, abiding his time so he could go back and tell his Dad he wasn’t able to get the hair cut. He looked over towards the diner, noticing some guys outside of it all excited. He thought they were doing something stupid as usual. He turned to head on home, thinking he had paced long enough to convince his father.

“Hey! Isn’t that Mr. Roger’s niece!“ Someone said. Glenn’s ears perked and he stopped, turned to look back.

“Yeah, she’s new in town! Look at that!“ Another said as they grew more excited. Glenn fearing the boys were doing something to her, as they always did Josie. Rushed over to the diner and stopped at the window, when he witnessed what was going on.

“Feel that? Let me give you something else to think about.” Then she slowly started to move her pelvic. Ross was in shock, this had never happened to him before. The predator had become the prey.

Ross felt himself becoming aroused and pushed away from her, staring into her eyes and seeing she wasn‘t phased one bit. She was smiling and what he saw in her eyes, he knew she wouldn‘t mind doing more. He realized then, some women aren’t to be messed with.

He turned and ran out the diner. The others watched, as she started to laugh and stand to her feet. She looked at each of them in the diner, as one by one they turned away from her. They didn‘t want to be her next victim.

“Okay gentlemen and I use that loosely! Lesson number one. Don’t play with wild things. They have a way of turning on you. Stick with local girl here, she doesn’t bite!” Sheila told them. Then she walked over to the counter and paid for her food.

Josie wanted to say something to her, for the local girl and don’t bite comment, but opted to let it go. She knew her type too well. You don’t mess with them. But on another day, she will show her she still has a lot of bite in her.

Glenn stood watching and amazed by her. She was something else. Not like the girls around there. They were either lady-like or like Josie! Never like Sheila. He just didn’t know quite how you would categorize her.

Glenn moved back out of sight, as she came out of the diner. The boys outside parted like the red sea, allowing her to pass. She walked down the street, heading back to the house. The ones that were inside came out, joining the others outside. All eyes were on her, until she disappeared.

They went back in, murmuring amongst themselves. They were astonished! Ross and Orson had made the others think they were hotshots with the women. In one gesture, Sheila blew that right out of the water.

Glenn slowly moved pass the diner and down the street. He started on home, dazed and finding her enticing. He couldn’t get, how she moved out of his mind. He didn’t know that could be done She wasn’t like Mrs. Rogers at all and yet very much like her. He completely forgot about the haircut.

Chapter Ten
Sheila walked in on her Uncle and John, Glenn’s father talking about him. They seemed to be upset, with how he had gotten the other boys all riled up. John had tried to explain, how hard he has tried to make a man out of him.

She wondered where her Aunt could be. That’s when she noticed the kitchen door was closed. At that time, John came from off the back porch, followed by her Uncle. He said something about having a talk with Glenn.

She ran to the back, where her room was located. She wanted to avoid them as much as possible. She hated the stereotyping. She wondered how long it will take her Uncle to noticed she wasn’t like the females in this stiff-necked community.

And after what she did today, it will definitely be sooner. Ross wasn’t going to allow her to get away with humiliating him like that or the other boys. They are now intimidated by her and that’s a blow to their manhood.

She saw her Uncle open the kitchen door and say something to her Aunt. Then he advised her not to tell John about his own son and that he should know him better than her.

Her Aunt was very humble, but said something to make her Uncle turn on her. Then they got into a heavy conversation. Her Uncle finish talking to her Aunt and went upstairs. Sheila didn’t know if she should go to her or not. She sat her food on the dining room table and went to her Aunt. She was crying. What a fool, her Uncle!

“Auntie! Don’t let my Uncle get next to you! I heard Glenn’s dad and him! What defines a man or woman? Why do everyone have to be put in these little boxes? Glenn is a fine young man, Auntie!“ Sheila told her. Lacey looked around to her.

“I know he is Sheila! My fears are, they will destroy him before it’s realized. Bob and John are so wrong.“ She stood and walked over to the window, staring at her garden.

“Well, we won’t let them. If I hadn’t been as strong as I am. I would have folded in boarding school. I’m a lot like Glenn! But the female version. We may walk and talk like a duck, but that doesn’t make us one.” Sheila said to her Aunt. Lacey turned to her and smiled. She was right. She isn’t like the girlie girl. She’s a little rough around the edges.

“Hmmm! Yeah! I think this may have turned out to be a good thing after all!” Lacey nodded and walked pass Sheila.

“What Auntie?” She asked. Lacey smiled and walked passed her.

“You being here!” She looked in Sheila’s eyes and she understood.

She watched Lacey go over and sit down, picking up a piece of clothing and started sewing on it. Sheila thought this would be a good time to eat. While they were at the bonfire, she was going to get to the tin box and see what in there could help her solve the mystery of her father’s death. She’s sure there’s something there that could help her with a lead on what her father was doing before his death.

Sheila had just finished eating and sitting down in a chair to watch her Aunt sew, when a knock came at the door. It was Glenn and his father. Glenn looked sad and his father looked determined.

“Hello! Who is the man putting on the play?” He asked Lacey, who stood up when Glenn came in behind his father.

“His name is Mr. Magee! But why?” Lacey asked. John was holding a ruffled skirt in his arm.

“Glenn won’t be playing in the play!” He said sternly.

“But why John?” Lacey asked. Glenn turned away.

“Because I told him to.” He said abruptly.

“Oh John.......!” Lacey started.

“Where’s Bob! He’ll understand!” He said and shoved the skirt in Lacey’s arms, not allowing her to finish.

Sheila was growing irritated by the moment, as she sat silently taking this in. Her eyes were mostly on Glenn. His kept shooting over to her Aunt. It confirmed her suspicious. He had a thing for her and wondered if her Aunt realized this.

“Bob!” He called out.

“I’m up here John!” Bob called down from his room. John turned away from Lacey and headed upstairs.

Lacey’s eyes were fixed on Glenn, who was looking towards the wall now. Now Sheila was wondering if her Aunt knew, what she was feeling for Glenn was getting into a very dangerous zone.

“What is the number to the guy putting on the play? Glenn won’t be doing the part!” John informed him.

“Oh!” Bob said, as he came down the stairs.

“Yes! And he’s going to get more involved with the outings you have set up!” John looked at his son.

“Sure! He’s always been welcomed. 344!” Bob told John!

“Glenn!” His father said and picked up the phone. Glenn walked over to the desk with head hung down.

Sheila rose from her seat and walked out onto the back porch. She needed some fresh air, the one inside was getting stale. She listened, as her Uncle asked her Aunt if she would walk over to the dining hall with them. She told him she wasn’t hungry.

Glenn’s father was bugging him to make the call. Glenn said the line was busy, while her Uncle was still trying to get her Aunt to join him. She said no! John told Glenn to keep trying and asked if he needed some money. Glenn shook his head.

Finally, after the last plead from Bob to Lacey, both John and Bob left. Sheila started to come back in, but decided to observe the interaction between her Aunt and Glenn. Glenn called and got through. He told the man he couldn’t do the play and after the man’s interrogation, broke down and started to cry.

Sheila got the urge to go to him. But her Aunt was there, explaining to the man why Glenn was giving up the part. Something about this father didn’t feel he had enough time to study for finals and rehearsing the play. She hung up and reached for Glenn, but he got up and started out the door. .

“Glenn! I‘m going to ask Jane Howard over for tea. i want you to come and ask her to the dance on Saturday night!” Lacey said, as Glenn opened the door.

“But you were to go to the dance with me!“ Glenn reminded her. This was getting very interesting to hear.

“I know I feel it would be better if you invited her!“ Lacey told him. Glenn stared at her for a second.

“Do you believe like my father and the others? Is that why you want to shove me off on Jane?” He asked. Lacey stood stunned at the question.

“No Glenn! I thought we can try and lick this thing!” She explained. Bad choice of words, Sheila thought and walked in to see this horrified expression on his face. He turned and bolted up the stairs.

“That went well!” Sheila looked over to her Aunt, who shook her head and walked over to her chair, taking a seat in her chair.

Chapter Eleven

“Are you sure you don’t want to come to the bonfire?” Lacey asked as she put on her coat. Sheila was seated in a chair with a book. She looked up at her Aunt.

“No Auntie! I hated them things when I was in school. I’m certainly not going to go to one, now that I’m free from them. Lacey smiled at her directness.

“Okay! I’ll see you when I get back!” She told her and started out the door.

“Auntie!” She called to Lacey getting up out of the chair. Lacey turned back to her, stopping in the door entrance.

“Glenn! They wouldn’t allow the other boys to do anything bad to him, would they?“ Sheila had some memories of hazing when she was in school. Not much was done to protect her, because she wasn’t like the other girls.

“I hope not!” She said and took a step out the door, looking up the stairs. She hadn’t seen Glenn since the afternoon. Sheila took this in.

“Well, I better get going!“ Lacey said and left out of the house. Sheila could see the sadness on her Aunt’s face. Between her Uncle Bob and Glenn, she was breaking.

Sheila closed the door and walked back further into the house. All of this seems so silly with the stupid rituals the schools have. Nothing good comes of them and for the person getting the brunt of it, could lead lasting scars.

Yeah, she was always the one getting from the other girls, but boy did she get them back! She smiled remembering some things. Glenn should take her example! A few little pranks back at them, will curve their appetite to bother anyone.

Just then she heard a lot of commotion, as the front door swung open and a sound like a stampede made its way upstairs. It was those crumb snatchers, coming for Glenn she guessed. She walked to the door and stood in listening to them, pounding on his door and calling him that name.

The door opened and they all grew silent for a moment. Then someone said something like ‘let’s go’ and they all made their way down the stairs. Sheila walked over to the edge of the stair rail and stared each of them down. Especially Ross and Orson!

None of them would look her in the face, when they saw her. They all turned away from her, as they came down. But for Glenn, she gave a soft smile and thumbs up, as he was lead like a lamb to the slaughter.

Sheila felt so sorry for him. She has been through too many of these things, to know nothing good could come of it. If only her Uncle had curtailed this before it got out of hand. Which reminded her of something.

She rushed back through the door, closing it behind and ran up to her Uncle and Aunt’s room. She slid to the floor and looked under the bed, as her Aunt had told her and pulled out the tin box. Like she had said, it was locked.

She knew her expertise would come in handy. She looked on the dresser and took a hair pin and opened it up, twisting it just right. She grabbed the tin box and stuck the hair pin in the lock, jamming it. It opened with ease!

She gazed upon all the letters from both her Father and her, neatly bound with rubber bands. She knew he would have them in order, according to date. She found the time just before her father was killed and a little before. She then place the stacks back as they were and locked the box, placing it exactly as it was before.

If her Uncle checked on the box, which she felt he doesn’t. It wouldn’t looked undisturbed. She made her way down the stairs and headed back to her room. She found a nice safe place to hide the stack of letters, until she could go over them without being discovered.

Sometime later, she was going into the kitchen to get a glass of water, she thought she saw Glenn run pass the window. She quickly turned and ran for the door, to catch him! But her Aunt had beat her! She listened as they talked. Her Aunt ended it, by reminding him of the tea date with the girl.

“No! No Auntie! Bad idea!” She said to herself. Her Aunt walked in and took off her coat. Sheila could see that things didn’t go well.

“So how did the bonfire go?” She asked, staring at her Aunt. Lacey looked up and from her expression, she knew.

“They marched him down there! Then humiliating him by not trying to tear his pajamas off. They formed a circle around him and wouldn’t let anyone at him. Making their cruel comments. Allen wasn’t involved, until he saw what they were doing. Then he ran and broke the circle, tearing Glenn’s pajamas off. That Ross is so vicious. He tried to do something horrible to Glenn, until I screamed at him. That’s when Glenn got away and ran home. I followed him. He had scratches on his chest. I asked if he had something for them and he said yes. I knew he just wanted to go to his room and be left alone. I told him not to forget about the date with Jane!” She sounded so exhausted. Sheila fought back the tears. This was out of hand. And she blamed the adults, if that’s what you could call them.

“Auntie! Please give yourself a break. You’re doing as much as you can. Glenn’s Father and my Uncle need the tar whipped out of them. I am so angry with my Uncle for allowing. You would think he was getting some enjoyment out of seeing Glenn treated this way.” Sheila rose from her seat and began to pace back and forth. She was doing all she could to contain herself. And that meant not finding the boys and giving them a lesson on how it feels to be bullied.

“I totally agree. It’s as if they have to make themselves feel better, by humiliating him because he isn’t like them. Because if he isn’t like them and could be defined as a man, then what would that make them?“ Lacey said, as Sheila could see this was a huge strain on her.

“Barbarians! That’s what it makes them!” Sheila said, taking a seat in a chair. She could imagine, as she went back to her school days and how cruel kids can be.

“I’m going to turn in. This has been a very exhausting day. Sleep well my dear!” Lacey said, standing to her feet. Sheila got up and went over to hug her Aunt.

“You too Auntie!” She whispered to her and watched her turn and go up to her room. Sheila stood there thinking about Glenn and got an idea.

She ran to her room and got her first aid kit she always carries and snuck outside, going under Glenn’s window and climbed the vines. She came to the window and knocked it. Glenn came to the window and looked out at her, stunned. Then he came to his senses, as she pointed to him to open it. He raised it up and helped her though.

“What are you doing? I could get in trouble if Mr. Rogers or anyone sees you in here!” Glenn whispered, not wanting to alarm anyone in the building. A girl in his room would really get him in hot water.

“They won’t! They haven’t came back yet. Now sit down and let me tend to those cuts.” She gave him a gentle push towards the bed. He backed up and sat down. She sat next to him, opening up her box.

“I already took care of them.” He told her, as he watched her pulling things out. She looked up at him.

“I can imagine how you took care of them. Now sit still!” She said and reached to unbutton his pajama shirt. He instinctively pulled away.

She stared at him for a few moments. Then he looked away, as she continued to unbutton each button, one by one. She looked at the long marks across his chest and wanted to kick some butts. She took out a small gauze, opened it and put some ointment on it. She poured some peroxide on another gauze and rubbed it gently over the scratches.

Glenn had turned his head back to her and watched her, as she was intense in what she was doing. His mind went back to the diner and cut it short, as he was feeling something strange in his body. She rubbed the ointment over the scratches.

“There!” She looked at him. He looked at his chest, then started to button his shirt.

“Thanks!” He said and looked over to her. She smiled.

“You’re welcome! I heard what happened tonight. I went through something similar. The trick is, to not allow them to get next to you.” She told him. He looked at her then away.

“I know! But how do you do that? When the people you care the most about, thinks like everyone else.“ His voice had a lot pain in it.

“Get some sleep Glenn! In the morning, you’ll be able to think clearly.” She told him and left the bed. Glenn looked over at her. She was so different. And she didn’t care what others thought of her. She was a wild thing! He wished he could be more like her.

“Sheila! Thanks for caring.” Glenn said shyly. She looked at him and touched his hand lightly. He felt the electricity shoot through him.

“No problem!” She said and went out the way she came. Glenn watched her go down the vines with ease and disappear into the house, just after she gave him a quick glance. Glenn shut the window and rubbed the hand she, touched to his face and laid down on his bed. He drifted off, daydreaming about her and the diner.

Sheila laid down in her bed, hearing her Uncle come in and going upstairs. Tomorrow when her Uncle and Aunt are out the house. She could review those letters and hopefully replace them before they‘re discovered missing. Maybe next Saturday night, she could have what she needed and take a flight back to deal with Paul.

Chapter Twelve

The next morning Sheila was awaken by the aroma of breakfast being prepared. She lazily rolled about of bed and went into the bathroom to take a nice hot shower to wake her up completely. She stood under the shower for a few moments enjoying the warmth from the water.

“Good Morning Auntie! Mmmm! That smells good! So what is your agenda today?” She asked, almost forgetting about the tea date!

“Good Morning Sheila! I don’t know! I may just hang around the house today.” She said pouring some orange juice in tow glasses. Sheila looked around, as she stood in the kitchen doorway watching her Aunt.

“Where’s my Uncle?” She asked. Lacey looked at her and sighed.

“He’s out playing racket ball with one of the faculty members. He’ll catch breakfast at the dining hall!” Lacey said, as she handed Sheila a tray and took the glasses of orange juice.

“I have hardly seen him since I got here! Is this his usual routine?” Sheila asked, setting the tray of food on the dining table and taking a seat on the side of the table. Lacey took the seat opposite her.

“Yes! It’s always something. It has been hard getting to be with him alone!” Lacey confided in Sheila.

She buttered a piece of toast and took a chunk out of frustration. What the hell was her Uncle doing? Here he has the most wonderful woman any man could hope for and he takes her for granted. She was going to have to corner him.

“I’m sorry to hear that. What? You too have been married for how long?” Sheila asked, taking a sip of orange juice. Lacey played with her food. Something other than her Uncle’s neglected was on her mind.

“Nearly a year! When we met and married, we were so in love. Now I wonder if it was just the place and not us!” She said sadly.

Sheila refrain from sounding off about her Uncle. It wouldn’t help the matter. Lacey left her chair and started in the living room. The two had lost their appetite. Sheila took a seat in a chair and watched Lacey walk over to the window. It was Glenn, dressed up and going somewhere.

“I wonder where Glenn is going?” She said, watching him going down the street. Sheila realized her Aunt was getting too involved with this young man. Pitying him will do nothing but hurt him.

“Auntie!” Sheila called to her. Lacey turned to her, eyes strained.

“Yes Honey!” She replied, coming to sit across from her. Sheila leaned in with determination.

“Why don’t you take a day away from here. You are really stressed out. If no one sees it I do! My Uncle is an ass, pardon my French. Glenn’s problem is weighing heavy on you. It’ll all be here when you get back!” Sheila suggested. Lacey sat there thinking. Maybe a day away form here is what she needed. She could go shopping in the next town.

“That might be a very good idea. I can go shopping! Come go with me!” She asked. Sheila shook her head.

“No Auntie! Away from everyone and thing that reminds you of here. Besides, it’ll give me a chance to deal with my Uncle!” Sheila informed her. Lacey smiled. She didn’t want to be here for that. She stood up with Sheila. The two hugged and then Lacey went upstairs to leave for the day.

Sheila watched as Lacey’s car made its way down the street and disappear from sight. She was along and decided to go read the letters she took from her Uncle’s box. She started with the earliest date and began to read.

Her father told her Uncle, she was doing well. He must have asked. Said something about the trust funds, her mother had left and how the lawyer wouldn’t allow him to touch it except for her.

Why would he need to go into her trust funds?

He was angry and needed some money for a venture. She must have dosed off, but was awaken by heavy thumping noise. Those boys again. They must be up in Glenn’s room, peeping at that woman again. She has had enough of those pups thinking they run things. She felt they should be taught a lesson.

She pulled off her bra and went out back, standing against the far wall so they could see her clearly. She stared up where they were peeping out the window. Then she began unbuttoning her blouse. She reached the brick fence and called to them.

They looked at her, never knowing what was going to hit them. She made sure she had their attention and then opened her blouse, flashing her bare breast. The boys all nearly choked on the lump of saliva that caught in their throats. And just as surprised as they were, so was she!

“SHEILA!!!!” Her Uncle’s voice shattering the scene. All the boys gain their composures and fled the room, nearly falling down the steps and out the door. They could still hear Mr. Roger’s voice, as they ran down the street.

Chapter Thirteen

Lacey found that she couldn’t get into the shopping. Her mind was completely on what was going on at home. So she left and headed back home. When she walked in, she called to Sheila but found she was gone. She wondered where she had gone.

She went into the kitchen and set her kettle to boil water for tea. She sat down at the counter thinking. She was brought out of her thoughts by a knock at the door. She answered it! It was Allen. He informed her he would not be rooming in the house next year.
His Father wanted him to move in with the son of a friend of his. Lacey tried to plead with him not to do this to Glenn. But as he said, he has a lot to lose, she was only a bystander and wouldn’t be effected by the outcome.

She realized as much as she made herself part of this, she really wasn’t, Nothing was going to happen to alter her life from this. She slowly made her way into the kitchen to turn the fire off form the kettle and made her way upstairs. upstairs to her room.

Allen caught up with Glenn to tell him he would not be sharing a room with him in the fall. He found Glenn quietly sitting near the window, listening to some music. When he walked in, Glenn jumped up.

“Oh Hi Allen!” Glenn acknowledged him. Allen looked own.

“Hey Glenn!” He said fumbling with something on a table.

“Did you come in here to listen to the music?” Glenn sensing he wanted to talk.

“No! I just wanted to.......You’re having it bad aren’t you?” He asked. Glenn shut off the music.

“Yeah it has. I’ve tried to ignore it, but you can’t. They won’t let you.” Glenn’s once cheerful voice had grown noticeably stressed.

“I’m sorry this had to happen. Some colleges have riots for no reason. Here they pick some guy out!” Allen was clearly frustrated. He didn’t want to add to what Glenn was going through, but he had no choice of the matter.

“Yeah! I got penalized for dropping out of the play!” He informed Allen. He looked at Glenn and walked away. Then he turned to him quickly.

“Glenn, maybe I could help you.” Allen got a bright idea. Not!

“Okay! What?” Glenn was game for anything, if it would make everyone leave him alone.

“Why don’t you ask Josie out? The one who works at the diner!” Allen suggested. Glenn looked amazed and took a seat near the window.

“What good would that do?” He asked.

“If you want people to lay off, you need to do something that will shut them up! This is the only way I can think of. It’ll give you a man’s man reputation. Go out with her on Saturday night and Sun morning everyone will be talking about. By mid week, they’ll be looking at you with new eyes.“ Allen explained. Glenn stood to his feet and walked away from the window.

“Why does everything has to be defined by a tight knit package?” He paced the floor, thinking about what Allen had said. Allen felt for him.

“That’s just the way things are Glenn! You can’t change things. Either you are the solution! Or you’re the problem. That’s just it!” Allen tried to explain.

“I don’t know! If I get caught there, I’ll get kicked out of school.” Glenn told him. Allen looked at him for a moment then turned away.

“I guess it was a bad idea after all! Glenn have you ever been alone with a girl before?” Allen asked, looking at his fingers.

“You know I haven’t!” Glenn didn’t know where this was going.

“Neither have I!” Allen confided. Glenn’s face grew surprised.

“What? All that bragging about how you pick up girls?” Glenn reminded him.

“I know I shouldn’t have say anything. Anyway there is something I need to tell you.” Allen looked at Glenn.

“Okay!” Glenn said. Allen walked away from him, stopped and turned back to him.

“I just wanted you to know, that next year I won’t be rooming at the Roger’s house. My Dad wanted me to room with his friend’s son. He’s on the team and all! I‘m sorry!” Allen said to him. Glenn nodded his head and turned away. His last hope to survive this was slowly dwindling away.

“I understand!” Is all he said. Allen looked at him, but Glenn turned away looking out the window. Mr. Rogers was leaving the bookstore. Allen turned and walked out of the music room.

“That was an bummer! Wasn’t it!” A woman’s voice came from somewhere in the room. Glenn knew this voice and turned to her. It was Sheila, Mr. Roger’s niece.

Chapter Fourteen

“Sheila! Where did you come from?” He asked, walking in the direction the voice came. She was sitting, concealed in a huge easy chair. She got up on her knees and was staring over the back of it. Only the top of her head and eyes could be seen.

“I’ve been here for sometime now. Just before you came in to play your music. I had to flee my Uncle’s wrath!” She said looking at him and smiling. He got this confused look on his face.

“I don’t understand!” He came closer. She got out of the chair and started to walk pass him.

“You’ll here about it, as this community has nothing better to do then gossip and ridicule others. He caught me doing something inappropriate. So I found the refuge in here.” She started to explain.

“What did you do?” Glenn hesitantly asked. She noticed the look on his face and walked away from him.

“I flashed my bare breast, to those little peeping toms. My Uncle caught me and blew the roof off the house. It was funny how that broke up the peeping party. Yeah, I got something for them the next time though. Just watch!” She nodded her head and bit her lip.

Glenn tried to keep a straight face. He could only imagine her standing there with her blouse opened and the reaction of the guys. Not to mention Mr. Rogers coming home and catching her like that. She looked over at him.

“It’s okay! You can laugh! I thought it was funny myself. You have to learn to laugh when you want to cry. You can’t let people think they are getting to you. The boys are bullies. They aren’t a thing alone. That’s why they run in packs. My Uncle and your father are the adults here, they’re weren’t suppose to allow this to go on like this. I’m totally ashamed of him.” Sheila came over to Glenn, looking up to him. Glenn looked into her eyes. They were a beautiful green.

“So are you going to do it?” She said, walking away from him changing the subject. Glenn was confused.

“Go out with local girl, over at the diner?” She refreshed his memory. Glenn walked over to the window, thinking.

“I don’t think so! She’s icky.” He told her. She laughed at his description of her. Icky wasn’t the word she thought of.

“Yeah I guess! I know what you’re going through. It’s not easy being different. It’s even worst when there’s no one to protect you.” She said to him. Glenn looked back at her.

“If you need a friend, I’m here for you. I’ve been where you’re going. So come to me before you do anything stupid. And don‘t forget my Aunt! She cares a lot for you and is very concerned.” Sheila stated. He took it in. She was truly different from the girls around there.

“Maybe you understand, but Mrs. Rogers doesn’t. She was suppose to go with me to a dance on Saturday night, instead she’s ashamed to be seen with me. So she’s pawning me off on Jane!“ Glenn grew frustrated. Sheila looked at him sympathetic.

“No Glenn! That’s not what she’s doing at all! She feels if you’re out on a date, then no one will find any reason to talk! They won‘t take notice, if you‘re out with the Housemaster‘s wife as they would a girl!“ She tried to explain. Glenn stared at her for a long time.

She didn’t care about being different. She was herself. Then he realized she was older than him and probably had to endure as he has. But he didn’t think he could go through this much longer. He wanted it to end. And Jane wasn’t the one to end it. Allen was right! Josie would shut everyone’s mouth. He decided to give Josie a call. It wouldn’t hurt.

“The boy needs to be doing men things, Lacey! Not in the midst of women folks. Telling them how he knits, cooks and do other female things. Gawd! I felt more sorry for John then myself. It’s his son, not mine!” Bob argued with Lacey! She looked at him, ashamed of what he had just said. She turned on him.

“Disaster! Did you just called that beautiful young man a disaster? So what he knits and cooks or whatever females, as you call us do! Any woman would be glad to have someone like that as a husband!” She came back on him.

Bob stared at her for a long time, reading her. Then something changed on his face. He picked up his drink and walked slowly towards her with a purpose. She shied away. She hadn’t ever seen this look.

“You have feelings for him, don‘t you?” Is all he said. She looked at him confused.

“What are you talking about?” She thought maybe the drink was kicking in.

“I’m talking about how you just defended him and what you just said. Any woman Lacey? Does that include you?” He was inches away from her. She took a couple of steps back.

“I was just saying Bob! Trying to get you to understand, he doesn’t have to be a jock to be loved by a woman or prove that he is a man! You take things too far!” She moved away from him. He tilted his head, searching her face. Something was there!

“Maybe I do! But one thing I will say! I don‘t want you near him! Who knows what kind of pervert he can be! From now on, you’re not to be alone with him unless someone else is here. Am I understood?” Bob snarled. Lacey looked back at him and nodded her head.

“Good! I have to go now! I’ll see you at supper. And less I forget! Your niece was out back flashing the boys! Blouse opened and nothing on. I’ll deal with that later. I wanted you to know, so you wouldn’t get blind sided.” He said and stormed out the house.

Lacey covered her mouth with her hands on hearing this. She took in a deep breath and let it out, then took a seat in her chair. What is going on? Why would Sheila do such a thing?

Sheila came in a few minutes later. Lacey looked up at her with great disappointment on her face. Sheila was never one to care what people thought. She was always acting out to make others leave her alone. But for some reason, she cared very much about what Lacey thought.

“May I explain Auntie? If I may still call you that?” Sheila sat across from her. Lacey tilted her head to the side and gave her a look.

“Of course you can. Just because we do things that may not be liked, doesn’t stop someone from caring. I care and hope this was just a one time thing. I know you don’t like those boys for the way they treat Glenn. But remember, you’re older than them. Use that to beat them.” Lacey said. Sheila thought about what she said and nodded her head.

“You’re right Auntie! I just get tired of them little peepers. That Lady has no idea what they do every afternoon. But I’ll try to ignore them.“ She excused herself and went to her room. She needed to get to the letters, so she could get out of here Saturday.

Lacey watched as she made her way back to her room. If she had had a daughter, she wished she would be exactly like Sheila. Strong willed and determined to be her, no matter what.

She admired that in her and thought about how funny that was for Bob to walk in on. She got up to go upstairs. She wanted to take a nap before supper. As she started up the stairs. She heard Glenn just out the door at the phone.

“Hello! May I speak to Josie!” He asked. What does he want with Josie? Lacey listened.

“Hello Josie! This is Glenn! Yeah the cute guy! I was wondering if I could see you on Saturday night. I’m not going to the school dance.” He asked.

“What time do you get off from work? I can pick you up form there.” He continued. Lacey leaned against the wall. She had heard of this Josie girl.

“Okay! I’ll be there at nine! Bye!” Glenn said and hung up the phone. Lacey stood there, listening him running up the stares. She decided she would go see this Josie for herself.

Chapter Fifteen

Sheila sat on her bed with the letters she had taken from her Uncle’s tin box. They were all back when her Uncle was in the Navy! The first few were nothing out of the ordinary. It was the ones just a year before her father’s death that got to her.

He clearly wrote to her Uncle about being in trouble. He had developed this gambling bug. He owed this loan shark some money. Her Uncle bailed him out a few times. But her father didn’t learn anything and kept it up.

That’s when her Uncle, the hard nose that he is, refused to send him another dime. The letters had a long gap between the time of the letter her father pleaded with her Uncle to help him out for the last time and one just a few weeks before her father died.

They evidently had stop speaking. Except for the fact the last time her father wrote her Uncle, he had asked him to watch over her. She put the letter down and stared at the far wall. Why did they keep things from her. The letter clearly says that this loan shark was after him.

If she hadn’t faked her death, she could get in touch with Paul. Right now she couldn’t trust him with the fact she was still alive. She pulled out her laptop and began to go through some known illegal loaners. And how well did her husband tie into all of this.

As much as she knows he was the one who may have killed her father. She missed him a lot. He could not fake the way he touched her. A woman knows when a man loves her. And there was no doubt in her mind he did.

She gather up the letters and put them away. It had been a long day. She was going to have to get together a good disguise and go back. She needed to be there, to ask some question. Now that she knew a little more about what lead up to her father’s death.

Something that cost him his life a week later. Her Uncle knew what was going on but left her in the dark. She could understand back then, she was young. But since she has been there, he’s has clearly been dodging her. Except for today! She let out a little chuckle. She thought out a plan.

Saturday came and it was pouring down rain. Sheila sat at the airport waiting for the departure of her flight. It had been delayed due to a heavy storm watch at her place of arrival. She looked down at her watch to see the time. Her mind went back to events of the week, leading up to this day.

On the day of her flashing, later that evening her Uncle had a long talk with her about the virtues of women. He was so clueless. But to make the lecture short, she agreed with everything he said. And expressed her remorse for doing such an outrageous thing. And that it will never, ever happen again.

Then she flashed him with puppy eyes. He was taken in and leaving her with her Aunt. Lacey wasn’t fooled one bit. She had come to know this extraordinary young woman very well. Her trials of school and life only made her dig in more. If only Glenn had that fortitude.

She looked at her watch and the time the flight was scheduled to leave. Then she remembered, her Uncle was taking those brats camping. Talking about getting just what they deserve.

It so happens, two days after the incident. The little creeps, not knowing how to quick while they were ahead. Faithful as ever, same time and same window. Were peering through binoculars at the neighbor.

But this time her husband stepped in their window with binoculars and stared back at them. He gave them a fist! The fell back from the window and tripping over themselves, spilling out into the street and running for their lives. Literally.

The husband was acting on an anonymous tip. She chuckled deviously. Every time they would go out! She waited for them to come back and sat on the porch, mad dogging them as they timidly past by her. She smiled. Maybe somewhere in life they will remember this and become decent participants in the world.

She looked at her watch once again. Maybe she should cancel this trip. It may be and omen. It was getting late. Time was on her side. She was able to pull up some names, known to be loan sharks in her city.

One name stuck out. She remembered back to a time she was home and some guy had called her father. She answered the phone and took the message. It was the same guy listed in her information. She wanted to check him out and find out if he was working for her husband or vice a versa.

She looked out the window and watched the rain pour down, something else was bothering her, that made her feel like it might be best to cancel the flight until another day. Her Aunt. She had been acting very strange, for the last couple of days.

She first thought it had something to do with Glenn. But he has been equally strange and the dance was tonight. She wasn’t sure if her Aunt planned to go or not. Nor if Glenn was going, since they kicked him off the dance committee. She was glad she was able to talk him out of going out with Josie. She shuddered. She wondered if her Aunt knew something.

“Miss! When do you think flight 608 will actually be taking off?” She grew impatient with waiting and went up to the counter to get some information. Her flight had been delayed once again.

“I’m sorry Miss, but that flight won’t be leaving until morning.“ The attendant informed her. That was all she needed to confirmed this trip wasn’t a good idea at this time.

She canceled the trip and took a taxi back home. As the taxi was driving up to her house, she saw the campus police hauling Glenn across the street. She beckoned for the taxi to stop and watched as they knocked on the door.

Her Aunt was going to be devastated. But it wasn‘t her Aunt who came the door, but her Uncle. She guessed the rain had turned them back. She told the driver to continue! She got out the taxi and walked upon the porch, listening to what was going on inside.

“Sir, he was over to a woman’s house and caused a disturbance. We were called and found out he roomed here. So we brought him to you.” One of the officers informed Bob. Sheila gasped.

That’s what his plans had been. That’s why he had avoided her like the plague, he going to go over to Josie and prove to the others he was a man. Oh, she could kill him. She told him to come to her before he did anything stupid.

She opened the outer door and made her way into her Uncle’s apartment. She passed the police and Glenn. He glance over at her, then hung his head in shame. She went to stand by her Aunt for support, knowing this was killing her. But looking at her Aunt’s face, though sad. Didn’t look all that surprise. Could she had known what Glenn was planning?

“Thank you Officers. I’ll take it from here.” Bob told them, leading them out to the outer door. Glenn never looked up to the two women. They could hear the door close and Bob’s foot steps. Everyone poised for the explosion called Bob!

Chapter Sixteen

“What were you thinking? Do you realize what they’re going to do to you? Not to mention your father will have to be called.“ Bob walked pass him not looking at him. Sheila grabbed her Aunt’ arms as she seemed to make a step towards the disciplining.

“Oh Mr. Rogers! Please don’t call my father!“ Glenn spoke for the first time. Bob looked at him nostrils flaring.

“I have no choice. Now go to your room and stay there until your father gets here.“ Bob said calmingly and went to the door, opening it. Glenn looked over to the women, then turned and rushed pass Bob out the door. They heard his foot steps pound the stairs and his door slam.

“Bob!” Lacey started, but said nothing when she saw how angry her husband had come.

“It’s been a long day. I’m going to bed and deal with this mess in the morning. Good night Ladies!” He said and went up to his room. Sheila looked over at her Aunt, who had walked over to the window and was holding herself.

“Did you go to the dance Auntie?“ She asked sitting down. Lacey looked back at her, catching her tone.

“No! I stayed home!“ She answered. If she didn’t go to the party and her Uncle was supposed to be out of town. Why was she dressed up? Sheila felt like something more than Glenn’s date with Josie had gone on.

“You look nice! Dressed to kill!“ Sheila said in an suggestive way. Lacey said nothing but fell on the window seat and began to cry. Sheila rushed over to her.

“What’s wrong Auntie?“ She asked. Lacey shook her head.

“This is all my fault. I should have stopped him from going! I knew days ago he had made a date with her. I went to the diner tonight, to see if it was actually true what they say about her. I knew this wasn’t going to work when I saw her. She wasn’t right for his first time.“ Lacey talk low, not wanting her husband to hear her.

“I knew too Auntie! But I thought I had talked him out of it. This is all because he has to prove himself a man. All the while he has done that, by trying to prove himself. It‘s a man thing.“ Sheila stated, then turned and walked a little distance form her Aunt. She was in deep thought. She had to see him tonight. She would wait for her Aunt to go up to bed.

“I had him here tonight! Right here in this room, but couldn‘t keep him form going out. It came to an head when he kissed me and took me in his arms crying. I tired to console him, he misunderstood and turned his head to kiss me once again. I turned away and told him no. He fled the room and started upstairs, I ran to catch him, but by that time I heard Bob and the boys coming. I ran back in and closed the door. Later after I closed our door, I heard him go out.“ She started to cry. Sheila walked backed to her, sitting next to her and placed her arm around her shoulder.

“You did what you could. Glenn is bent on proving himself. All because of this mucho crap. Too much testosterone for me. How do you live here with all these males?” Sheila tried to make light of the situation. Lacey slight smiled.

“Maybe so! I just wished he hadn’t gone. He may get expelled for sure! I’m going to bed. This is just too much to deal with right now. I’ll see you in the morning. And Sheila dear, having you around has taken the edge off things.” Lacey hugged her niece and went up to her room.

Sheila waited until she heard the bedroom door closed and felt her Aunt had made it to bed. She eased out the door and quietly walked up the stairs. She didn’t want to disturb the other boys.

She went into the room Glenn would be and closed that outer door. She tiptoed to his door and softly knocked on it. First there was no answer. She called to him, knocking again. The door opened partly, as Glenn looked out at her surprised.

“Let me in!“ She said firmly. He backed away, as she came through and closed the it behind her.

“What do you want Sheila?” Glenn asked. She walked up to him and stared at him.

“The question is, what are you doing?” Sheila sat down on the window seat. Glenn looked away, ashamed.

“You heard what happened?” He asked.

“Only what they said. Want to tell me your side of the story?” She looked at him. He looked over towards her, then sat on his bed.

“You want me to tell you everything?“ He didn’t know if he should mention about the time he spent with Mrs. Rogers and the kiss.

“Yes! You can!“ She brought her knees to her chest and wrapped her arms about them.

“I decide to make the date with Josie! I know we had discussed it. But I had to! I had to!“ Glenn broke. Sheila went to sit next to him, placing her hand on his. He looked up at her.

“It’s okay! You’re with a friend!“ She told him.

“Mrs. Rogers caught me before I could go! I know now she tried to prevent me from going. I thought she wanted me there, because she wanted to be with me. I did something I shouldn’t have and am ashamed.“ He got up and walked over to stared at the window. Not able to say it.

“You kissed her! I know she told me.“ Sheila finished for him. His head snapped toward her. She nodded her head, to confirmed what she had said.

“She told you?“ He asked.

“She’s upset that she let you down.“ Sheila explained. Glenn shook his head. What a mess he has made.

“She didn’t! I shouldn’t have kissed her, then try again. She turned her head away and told me no. I was so confuse and hurt, with what’s going on inside of me. I ran out, she tried to stop me. But your Uncle and the others came back. I hid behind the coat rack and when she closed their door. I went to see Josie! It didn’t get better with her. I kissed her and it was revolting. Maybe they’re right?“ He sat down on the window seat.

“No they aren’t Glenn! She’s disgusting.“ Sheila reminded him. He looked at her and felt she was trying to make him feel good.

“I tried to kill myself, after she kept saying that name they call me. She felt that’s why I wasn’t into her! She laughed at me. When that gets out, I’ll be treated worst. Not to mention I’m going to be kicked out. I’m a screw up!“ He said and laid his head in his hand. Sheila left the bed and came to kneel in front of him.

“No you aren’t. You are truly a man, because look at what lengths you have gone to prove it. It’s a man’s thing Glenn! Welcome to the man’s world.!“ She told him. He looked at her and gave some thought to what she was saying. She stared into his eyes and felt something flutter within her. She knew this feeling all too well!

“My Aunt and Josie are two lucky women.” She told him. He looked at her strangely.

“What do you mean?” He asked, very confused to where this was going.

“One you care deeply for and kissed her to express that. And the other you kiss, because you felt she could prove you were a man. Either way, they both had the pleasure of tasting your lips. I envy them.“ She rose and sat next to him, gazing into his eyes.

“What are you saying?“ He asked her, staring back.

“Men look at me as a challenge. Something to be tamed. Or as a good friend, one of the guys. Never as one desirable. You proved that tonight. You kissed my Aunt, who any man would want to be with. And you kissed Josie, a woman men know they can be with. I’m in between. I‘m not quite the lady type nor am I anywhere near Josie‘s type. You never thought about me when you wanted to seek someone out to help you confirm your manliness. Because you didn’t see me in that way.” She said, rising up and stared down to him. Glenn looked at her, not knowing what to say. Little did she know, how desirable she was to him and the others boys. Her little diner and back yard antics earned her that.

“Get some sleep! It’s been a very eventful day. I have the feeling tomorrow won’t be any better.“ She said and bent down to kiss him on the forehead. He gently took her arms in his hands, slightly gripping them. She smiled at him and backed away. If she stayed any longer, they would be in trouble.

He watched as she went out the door, closing it behind her. He left the window seat and walked over to his bed, laying down. His thoughts were on what she had said. She wanted him to kiss her. But after the whole story gets out, no one will want him around.

Chapter Seventeen

Sheila woke from her sleep, trying to focus in her surroundings. For a moment she thought she was back home with Chase, expecting him to come out of the bathroom any minute. Then her mind freed from the cobwebs, allowed her to remember where she was. Her Uncle Bob’s home. She quickly jumped from the bed. It was going to be a long day.

Lacey was walking in her garden, staring up at Glenn’s window from time to time. The shade was down and he hadn’t been seen or heard from all morning. The news was already over the campus of Glenn’s indiscretion. She over heard some young men talking about it, as she walked by the fence.

She went back into the house and to the kitchen, made some tea. She was sitting in a chair and drinking tea, to calm her nerves. She was blaming herself for not being able to keep him from going there.

She knew it wouldn’t go over well. He didn’t understand what was going on inside of him like she had. Sheila walked in the room, staring at her Aunt. She was still reeling from the night before.

“Good morning Auntie! I hope you slept well last night. Well as could be expected.” Sheila greeted her as she made her way into the kitchen.

“I took a sleeping pill! Bob wanted to start and I knew the only way to shut him out, was to fall asleep.” She sat her cup of tea down. Sheila perked her ear to hear that and thought finally her Aunt was getting it.

“Where is he by the way?” Sheila asked, coming back into the room with a cup of coffee and wafer.

“He’s gone down to get the full story of what happened last night from Josie. John and him have an appointment with the Dean. I feel poor Glenn is going to be expelled. With everything that has been going on for the last couple of weeks and now this. It’s inevitable.” Lacey rested her head on the back of the chair.

“That’s too bad. I would like to knock her lights out. How old is Glenn anyway?” Sheila sipped some coffee. Lacey looked up at her and remembered he told her his birthday was today.

“He’s eighteen today! Humph! What a way to celebrate!” She stood up and wrapped her arms around her waist, walking over to the window. Sheila looked into her cup and got an idea.

“Auntie! I’m going to go out for a few. Will you by alright?” She jumped out of her seat and looked at her Aunt. Lacey turned to her.

“No! You go do what you have to do! I’ll be fine!” She assured her. Sheila nodded then ran in her room, reappearing in moments with her jacket. She left the house and her Aunt standing at the window.

Sheila got a glimpse of the back of her Uncle going up the stairs and into Glenn’s room. He must have gotten what he needed from Josie and wanted to get Glenn’s side. She swiftly made her way towards the diner.

She had something of her own to discuss with the local tramp! She saw the taxi past her by and knew who the man was sitting in it. John, Glenn’s father. Could it get any worse for him?

She came up on the diner and overheard Josie telling the guys about last night. They all thought it was very funny! She walked in and everyone grew silent. She looked them over and then her eyes fixed on Josie.

“I would like to talk to you.” Sheila said and approached her. No one said a word as she made her way towards Josie behind the counter. Those that were seated there to get a good listen to what she was saying left.

“Yeah! What you wanna talk to me about?” She got smart. Sheila didn’t say a word until she took a seat on a stool.

“Glenn! I hear it came to see you last night!” She said. Josie shifted on her feet not sure where this was going. A little murmuring started behind Sheila. She didn’t pay them any attention. She was focus on the one in front of her.

“You’re not a gentlemen! You tell everything. Well, let me explain something. That young man only was there, because a friend heard you were easy and he could gain some experience with you. Or you would tell and give him a reputation as a Ladies man. Not because he finds you desirable.” Sheila started in on her.

“Well, from what I got is that I wasn’t his type anyway.“ She snapped at Sheila and laughter ringed out behind Sheila. She turned fully around and looked at each of them. They shut up and looked down at their tables. Then she turned back to Josie.

“What did you think? Of course you aren’t his type. He doesn’t want to sleep with garbage. You’re the great local town slut and couldn’t even get a boy of seventeen aroused. If anyone should be laughed at, is you.” Sheila blasted her. Josie got very angry and started from behind the counter.

“Look sista! I don’t know who you are.....No.....I know who and what you are. I wouldn’t be with your type.” Josie came to stand inches from Sheila, laughing.

“Even if I did go that way, you wouldn’t get a glance from me.” Sheila told her, then reached back and punched her dead in the face. Josie hit the floor like a bag full of potatoes. Sheila turned on the boys.

“I’m going to be nice to you, because my Aunt made me realized something. You’re all young an impressionable If I can get at least one of you to understand, how cruel it is to label someone and gang them. Glenn sews and cooks, so what! He’s sensitive and considerate. That’s traits a woman likes. Take it from me. I know of what I’m saying. Don’t continue this path or you’re all going to grow to be old grumpy men. Because no woman wants to be treated like a piece of property, that you can do anything with. I hope one of you will listen to me.” She looked them over, than walked out of the diner. Some of the guys ran over to help Josie. Others sat thinking about what she had said, while others took it lightly.

Sheila walked out of the diner and saw what she thought was Glenn, riding his bike out of town. She started towards home, when she saw Glenn’s father walking up the steps to the Dean’s office. Where was her Uncle? She thought and picked up her pace.

“It appears Josie was a little too much for him. He tried to kill himself when he realized it. The boy didn’t understand what everyone had been trying to tell him.” Bob said to her.

“She wasn’t too much for him. She wasn’t enough! That’s why he couldn’t do anything with her. And what about you?” She told him.

“What about me?“ He scuffed. She looked him dead in the eyes.

“Would you have touched her? When you don’t me?” She reminded him of the lost of intimacy that has plagued them for a very long time now. He glared at her for bringing up such a private thing, then turned away from her.

Sheila had just made in through the outer door when she heard them arguing. Sheila decided it was better if she stayed out of this. She took seat on the bottom stair, just in case.

“Say what you want, he tried to kill himself.” He walked away from Lacey.

“If he did, it’s because of the pressure that has been put on him the last few weeks. Not because of him having some woman. You men think it’s all about how many women you can bed. Then when a real man comes along who gets it, you want to label him. Glenn is right! He knows what it’s about. You’re wrong and don’t. I just wish last......!“ She started, then stopped. Bob stared at her. Sheila frozen. Oh no Auntie. Don’t!

“You wish what?” He asked, waiting for her response. She turned and walked away, holding herself. Again she has said too much.

“You wish what Lacey?” He repeated himself. She turned defiantly and stared at him.

“I wish he had stayed with me last night. Maybe if the boys and you hadn’t come back early, he wouldn’t have gone to see Josie! He wouldn’t have tried to kill himself. He would have been with me!” She came at him. Bob’s eyes grew large as lights.

“What are you talking about?” He walked up to her. She stood her ground.

“I knew he was going to see Josie! I didn’t want him to, so I tried to stop him. He found out and we argue. All of you came home and stop everything.” She said without feelings. He stared at her for a long time, trying to figure out who was this woman in front of him and what did she do with his wife. Sheila held her head between her hands. This sounded like the end of a long sentence.

Chapter Eighteen

“What is going on with you?” He asked stunned.

“You are what’s going on with me! You don’t touch me! There is no interaction, unless you want to pretend that we’re this happy couple. I can’t go on like this! I’m tired of this! Glenn has been such a gentlemen! He’s reminded me what it is to be treated like you’re something special.” She told him. He looked at her unable to say a word.

“Lacey!” Is all he could say. She turned and walked out in her garden.

She had nothing else to say. She would have to rethink things. He turned and walked out the door. Sheila didn’t have time to get up when, the door swung open and out came her Uncle. He gave her a quick glare, then went out the outer door. She got up and went in to talk to her Aunt.

“Auntie! She called, searching for Lacey.

“I’m here Sheila!” She answered, coming into the house.

“You alright?” Sheila asked. Lacey walked around in circles no knowing what to do with her marriage, if that’s what it’s called.

“I don’t know! This is just so hard. I can’t do this anymore. And it‘s worst than thought. He couldn‘t do anything with Josie and tried to kill himself.” She sat in her chair, almost passing out. Sheila took the seat across from her.

“I know Auntie! He told me last night!” She looked at her Aunt.

“You knew? You talked to him last night? How and Where? Oh! You were in his room?” Lacey sat up in her chair.

“Yes! I went to talk to him. He needed a friend and you couldn’t go!” Sheila explained.

“Oh well!” Lacey said and left her seat. Sheila looked at her and came to stand next to her. She hated to have to lay this on her.

“I think I saw Glenn leaving on his bike. Out of town. Where would he go?” She asked. Lacey turned to her and stared blankly.

“He’s gone? We have to find him!” Lacey gathered her sweater and started for the door. Sheila stopped her.

“No Auntie! Not this time. You have been to his rescue more than enough. He has deep feeling s for you and misunderstands what you’re doing as that you’re feeling the same. Do you?“ Sheila said to her. Lacey looked at her then turned away. She went over what was it exactly she was feeling for Glenn. She told him it wasn’t pity and that was true. She had an affection for him, but couldn’t describe it as love. That would go to her husband Bob. No matter how angry she was with him at this moment.

“What I’m feeling for Glenn is not love. I do have an special affection for the boy. That’s all! But we still have to find him.” She explained to Sheila. She nodded.

“ Okay! But right now, he may need more that affection Auntie! If you go this time, you better be ready to give him all or nothing at all.” Sheila looked at her long and hard. She thought for a moment and understood what she was saying and knew she was not in the position to give him anything.

“There is a place by the golf course, that he told me he hung out. I’m sure he could be found there.” She told Sheila and laid her sweater on the chair.

“Whatever you decide concerning my Uncle. Don’t lose touch with me. I haven’t had a female in my life, that I could talk with about important things. I’m not the fool as my Uncle. I know a good thing when I see it.” Sheila looked back at her from the door. Lacey smiled and nodded.

“Now go find Glenn and bring him home.” Lacy said, turning away and walking out into her garden. Sheila watched her for a few more minutes, than took the car to find Glenn.

Sheila drove passed the golf course and down by the wall, looking for the spot her Aunt had told her about. She was nearly at the end of the wall, when she discovered Glenn’s bike near a part of the wall that was broken. She parked the car and looked down into a wooded area. She looked around before going through the opening.

She made her way through the bushes and trees, coming to a clearing. It was secluded, hidden by the surrounding woods. Only Glenn could find such a place of solitude and yet so enchanting.

That’s when she saw Glenn’s feet, before she saw the rest of his body. Her heart sunk, because they were so still. She rushed further in to see his face. He was seated, leaning against a tree. His head slowly turned to her.

“Glenn!” She said, taking a long exhale. He didn‘t say anything just stared blankly at her. She wondered if he took some drugs and came out here to die. She moved a little closer to look at his eyes. She could tell by them if he was drugged.

“Are you okay?” She asked, standing a few feet away from him.

“Hello Sheila! Yes, I’m alright.” He said, looking down at the ground. She could see he was broken.

“Glenn!” She said, coming a little closer and taking a seat nearby. He looked into her face.

“Mrs. Rogers knows about me trying to kill myself doesn’t she?“ He asked, turning to look at her. She looked at him and nodded. He looked as if he were going to cry.

“I was sure her husband couldn’t wait to get back to her with the sordid details.“ He picked some grass at his side, staring into space.

“Yeah he did!” She confirmed. What else could she say about how her Uncle seemed to be getting a kick out of humiliating this boy? The sad thing about it, is at what cost?

“She must really hate me now!“ Glenn said sadly. Sheila scooted a little closer to him.

“No Glenn! She’s very worried about you.” Sheila informed him. He looked over at her.

“She is? I thought after what I did, she wouldn’t ever want to see me again.” Glenn’s eyes were so swollen. Her heart went out to him. She wanted so badly to take him in her arms and love him. But she stuck to what was most needed right now. His healing.

“You should know her better than that. She could never hate you or not see you again. And if you’re talking about that kiss, she wasn’t angry at all. She was very flattered for you to feel that way about her.” She came a little closer, trying to get him understand. All the while, Glenn had not noticed she was just a foot to his side.

“How did you know where to find me?“ He asked, looking her in the eyes.

“My Aunt! She remembered you telling her you had a spot you would go to get away. She figured this would be the place to find you.” She told him and moved next to him. He looked down at her face.

“Why didn’t she come then?“ Glenn asked, not able to take his eyes from her face. Then they veered down to her lips.

“I told her I would come. She needed to take care of something there. This is all too much for her. I didn’t mind coming for you.“ She told him and gazed deeply into his eyes. Something touched him! He turned away.

“You are being kind!” He said. She looked at him very confused.

“I am? About what?” Her eyebrows furrowed.

“Mrs. Rogers didn’t come, because she knows as everyone else knows. The truth that I have discovered about myself.” Glenn looked over at her. Sheila looked puzzled.

“You know what?“ She asked. Then a sudden calm replaced the complex expression on his face.

“What I am! I first thought they didn’t know what they were saying. A man can like to sew, clean house and cook! And still be a man! Right?” He looked at her for an answer. Her eyes narrowed.

Those creeps had made him question himself. And now who knows what damaged they had done. She searched for the right things to say, that would make things better.

“Yes, Glenn! They are wrong! And you’re every bit of a man as they could ever dream to be.” She moved right next him, their bodies just inches apart. Her hand came to rest on his own. He stared at it for a few seconds, then his eyes met hers. Those tantalizing aqua-green orbs. They reached in and captured him.

“Am I now? What make‘s you so sure, I‘m not wrong and that everyone else is right? Because you like me? No, let me take that back! Because you pity me?” He turned away from her, denying what he was feeling at this moment in time.

Feelings that would confirm everything that she and Mrs. Rogers, had tried to tell him. Discounting what his Father had come to believe and Mr. Rogers, the other boys, his only friend Allen and last but not least Josie!

“Pity you? What is there to pity you about? Look at you! Tall and handsome. So gentle, so considerate. When you look at a woman, you make her feel like she’s the most important person in the world. Glenn! Any woman in her right mind, would have you as her own. And why I’m here, is because I care about you.” Her eyes soften. He slowly turned to look at her. He swallowed a lump that caught in his throat.

He quickly came to his feet and walked away from where she sat. He didn’t want to get caught in this trap again. Believing these feeling to be true, only to discovered they were false. He was down! So he might as well stay there. He just didn’t have the strength in him, to fight back this time. It had taken its toll on him.

“I was in a room with a viable woman last night. No one else had problems with being with her. I kissed her and was repelled by the taste, the feel of her lips on mine. Her hands on me! Her body next to mind. Why was that Sheila? Why was it? Can you answer that?” He walked towards her, she came to her feet. She took two steps back, shocked. He was angry and understandably.

“Did you think you could make love to her, knowing what kind of woman she was and most importantly, without love? No you couldn’t! You‘re not that kind of a man.” She tried to explain. He stared at her for a very long time. Knowing what she was saying to be true. He had kissed Mrs. Rogers earlier that night and wanted to kiss her again. But Josie was so much different.

“You don’t understand! I felt dirty!” He looked at her. She shook her head.

“Glenn dear!” She started, walking up to him. She looked deep into his eyes. Her voice gentle and soothing. She reached up and placed her hand on the side of his face.

The touched he had felt before, just bloomed within his body. He wanted to lay her down in the soft grass and kiss her deeply! He felt so confused. Every protest that was coming out of his mouth, wasn’t agreeing with what his body was expressing.

He looked at her face, as the daylight played upon it just right. He hadn’t realized how beautiful she was, until now. Not just outwardly, but inwardly. She was very much like Mrs. Rogers.

“There is an old rule! Gentlemen choose with whom they share their most precious gift they have to give. While others throw it in the wind, caring nothing about where or with whom they give it. You’re not like that Glenn and that is the thing you must understand. You’re a Gentlemen!.” Sheila finished explaining. Glenn moved away from her touch. His body was doing things he had no control. He didn’t want to betray himself.

“What do you know? You’re the same as me! In denial of who you are too. Look how you are and the way you dress. They say things about you too. If you can convince me, then you can convince yourself!” He went off on her.

Not because he believed what he was saying. But the longer she stood in his presence, was just another moment closer to her proven him wrong. It was getting increasingly difficult for him to restrain himself. He was losing the battle of what he wanted to do to her. Sheila moved away and stared at this person, wondering who he had become.

“Okay! Where’s Glenn and what have you done with him?” She put her hands on her hips. He looked up at her, like a school boy who had been sent to the principal’s office.

“I’m sorry for saying that. But it’s true! If I didn’t know before, I know now.“ Glenn said. She walked in front of him, staring into his face. What she saw scared her.

“ Let me explain something to you. I don’t give a rat’s butt what people have to say about me! I am very comfortable with being who I am, because this is who I am. It doesn’t mean I am not a woman. I’m very much a woman, without the frills.” She was hurt by what he had said, but threw it off. What was important was to get him through this, unscathed. He looked at her, the pain evident. He hadn’t mean to hurt her.

“And Glenn! You are very much a man, without the rough the edges.” She added, smiling at him. He looked to her then away. He seemed very calmed and that scared her.

“Say what you want. I know what’s going on! I feel it inside. No! After last night, I won’t ever be.........” He stopped and looked at her, his eyes gentle.

“Thanks for being a friend Sheila! But right now I want to be alone, if you don’t mind?” He said, walking over to the tree he had been sitting when she came. Then sat back down in the same spot.

“But Glenn!” She said, coming to stand in front of him.

“No Sheila! I’m convinced and there’s nothing you can say to change that!” He gave her one last glanced, then turned his head away from her.

She felt the tears swelling up in her eyes. And that’s an feat in itself! They had beaten him down, destroying his spirit. Just because he was different from them. And no man was able to reassure him or help him to understand what made him different. Not his own father or her Uncle. Because of the insecurities in themselves.

She turned and started up the path she had come. Stopping at a tree, she leaned on it and thought for a long time. Her mind went back to the only man she had loved and who had made her feel safe.

Glenn reminded her of him. And the world needed more men like David in it! What would David’s advice been to her? She smiled. She knew she had to do whatever it took, to make him understand.

Chapter Nineteen

Sheila turned around and walked back down the path towards Glenn. He was still sitting there staring in space. He must have heard the rustling of the grass as her feet came down on it. His he turned in the direction of the footsteps, she came into view.

His head moved up her body, coming to rest on her eyes. She didn’t moved, as she gazed into his hazel eyes. For a moment in time, they spoke what was in their hearts, through their eyes.

He knew why she had come back. And she knew he wouldn’t deny her. He slowly moved up the tree until he stood his full height. Without a word, she walked over to him and stood directly in front of him

“I’m going to kiss you! If you feel dirty, repelled or sick afterwards. Then I’ll leave and never bother you again.” She said and arched her eyebrows.

“Okay!” Glenn could barely utter any words. His body was doing a thing on him.

“Good! Because if you don’t feel those things, then I get to do whatever I feel. I want to show you things, you have never known. Deal?” She said softly. He was feeling something, but too embarrass to tell her. She took his face in her hands and moved with in inches.

“Yesssss!” The word left his lips like air from a puncture tire. He was trying to hold back the energy, this vital young woman was generating in him. She smiled and moved her head up to captured his mouth.

She kissed him gently at first, as little groan escaped him. His hands gently gripped her arms, she knew then it was all go. She deepen the kiss, allowing her tongue to moved into his own.

He groaned again, his hand automatically raised and gently touched the side of her face. She let up a small whimper. His hands so soft against her skin, sent tingles through her body.

She took a couple of steps closer, pressing her body into his. He allowed a longer groan to escape, as a new sensation coursed through his body. She looked deep into his eyes.

“Happy Birthday Glenn!“ Is all she said, as she kissed him. He met her half way, returning the kiss. They kissed for a few moments, finally coming up for air. He looked at her and tears filled his eyes.

They were right! She and Mrs. Rogers. He had to have some feeling for the person to want to be with them. This young woman was making his body go through changes he had never thought possible. It was ecstasy!

He placed his hands on her hips and lifted her up, he wanted more of her. She wrapped her legs around his waist. He threw his head back and let out a laughed. Every since the day he had saw her in the diner and what she had done to Ross. He had secretly fantasized her doing the same to him and wondered what it would feel like.

The fantasize had become his reality. And it was everything he had expected and more. She gave him more than a sample of her abilities. He slid down the tree, her in his arms and lips locked. Though he was thin for his height, Sheila could still feel his muscle mass.

In a few years he will fill out and be huge. Her hands began to move up and down his chest, touching him in a way that made his body shutter. She moved her head back and stared into his eyes, speaking to them.

How do you feel? Never mind! I can fell it!“ She said. Then her eyes wet soft. He stared into them, reading them.

He swallowed the lump that had formed in his throat. He realized what her eyes were saying. She wanted him badly. And strange enough, he wanted the same. He looked into her eyes and never strayed, as he laid out on the grass. Sheila directly lying on top of him.

“Don’t be afraid about whether, you’re doing it right or wrong. There is no such thing, when two people express their love to each other. Always remember that!” She whispered to him.

He listened and nodded his head. Then she gave him some instructions. He rolled them over, Sheila laying under him and gazed into his eyes. He was anticipating what to come. Glenn moved in, Sheila let out a soft moan.

It didn’t take him to think twice what he wanted to do. His body was consumed with desire greater than he had ever felt. He wanted her badly. His hands gently grasped her arms and he began kissing her, savoring the sweet taste of her lips.

This was different from the repulsion, he had experience with Josie. It was similar in what he felt with Mrs. Rogers. It felt right! His tongue eased passed hers and entered her mouth.

Now it was she, who felt something flowing through her. Instinctively, the man in him took over. Before he knew anything, he had gathered her up in his arms and laid her on a bed of flowers.

Instincts took over, as his hands began peel off clothing from her without any inhibitions and exploring the beautiful creature beneath him. While responding to her hands touching him in such away, that he wanted to explode. This day will always be remembered.

He couldn’t help, but to allow the tears to flow freely from his eyes. He soared to the heavens. Free from all the doubts and confusion, that had gripped him for the last few weeks. The doubts of who and what he was, nearly confirmed by the disastrous night with Josie. He didn’t need Josie to sound the alarm, that what others thought wasn’t true.

What he needed, was right there next to him. Making him feel so loved and wanted. She was delicate and gentle. Showing him how to unleash, all the passion he had contained within himself so long. Something Josie would never had been able to do.

Now he knew fully what two women had tried to pound into his head, while others tried to tell him differently. He was a man and had the same desires as any of them. But the difference was, he took more pride in what he had to offer a woman. And respected them.

What he had to give, wasn’t given freely. It was something you cherished and gave to someone who was able to give the same. Two people who loved, cared and had deep affection towards each other.

As the sun rose high in the sky. Shedding light on the beginning of something new. In a very small private section. Something enchanting was developing, hidden and protected by the trees and bushes, from the outer world.

Opened only to nature alone. Where the birds song in the trees, as the squirrels chased each other. Fighting over whose nuts belong to whom. A young man who once a boy, was becoming a man. His rebirth, on his Birthday.

Chapter Twenty

Lacey paced back and forth, wondering if Sheila had found Glenn and if she would be able to convince him, that things aren’t as bleak as he thinks. It’s a sad thing in life, when dreadful things happen and the person you hope would be there isn’t.

John and Glenn’s mother should never had children. He was doomed with those two from the beginning. But maybe just maybe there’s a Ram in the bush! Hopefully, Sheila could be that lifeline that saves him. Lacey was very glad she was there to help! Because right now, she had more pressing things to think about herself.

She had made a very hard and life altering decision. She heard the teak kettle whistle and made her way into the kitchen. Tea always seem to calm her nerves. She was expecting Bob back anytime.

This wasn’t going to be easy. She had poured her a cup and was walking back into the living room when Bob came through the door. She looked up at him and sat the cup down. He walked over to his desk and put his briefcase on it.

“We need to talk, Bob.” She broke the silence. He looked at her annoyed.

“I thought we had said enough this afternoon.” He picked up some paperwork and headed for the stairs.

“No we didn’t. Not all that I wanted to say. I feel you need to listen, Bob.” She told him. He stopped and turned to look at her. It may have been what she said or the sound of her, voice in what she said. No matter whatever it may have been, she had his attention.

“We’ve been married for nearly a year. When we met, we fell so in love. At least that’s what I thought. Our honeymoon was to die for and I felt we could take on the world. I was happy to come back here and be your wife, standing by your side and helping you with your work that you do here.“ She started. He leaned on the banister of the stair, listening.

“But every since we’ve been here, things have change. We don’t touch or hold each other when we have our down time. We don’t find time to be alone. You’re always with the boys or playing some type of game a staff member or in a meeting. I have been so alone here. I don’t know what to do. And if I tried to talk to you about something pressing me. You just walk away, saying we will discuss it later. I have know idea why I am here or most importantly, why did you ever marry me.” She was bearing her soul to him, calmly. Her frustration of trying to get through had gone. She just wanted him to understand why it had come to this.

“What are you talking about Lacey. I told you how busy this life for me would be. You told me that you could live it.” He walked over to her.

“Bob! I know you’re busy and all that you have to do. I understand and that’s not what this is all about. You have shut me completely out. You give me no time at all. In our private moments, you’re not there. How much time does it take to walk over to my bed or invite me into yours? What would one weekend away from everyone or thing hurt? Face it Bob! Whatever we had or felt during our honeymoon disappeared, when it was over.” She walked over to the window to stare out, realizing it had gotten late and wonder what was going on with Glenn and Sheila. Bob seemed irritated.

“I have no idea of what you’re talking about. The honeymoon was nice. It can’t always be that way. That’s why it’s called honeymoon. So you can spend that time together, before you get back to the real world.” He looked at her. She turned to face him, almost speechless.

“Is that what you think? That the honeymoon is were you get all the intimacy out the way, then you spend the rest of your life apart? No wonder I found consolation in Glenn’s attention. He has given me a reason to get through the day.” She said firmly. His eyes twitched, at the name of Glenn!

“Yeah! I wouldn’t be so concern with him. We all know where that leads.” He gave a little chuckle.

“I’ll tell you something else. When I told you, if none of you had come home last night. And I know this shouldn’t be said. But so be it! I said he would have been with me and not at Josie’s? That’s exactly what I meant!“ She looked him dead in the eye. He stood there and tried to register what she was saying, without saying it. Then the lights came on. His face grew hard, as he stared at this woman he called wife.

“What are you talking about?” His voice growled. She dug in and said it!

“I would have loved for him to prove all of you wrong. And I wish he had with me.” She said this with great pride.

“You would rather have him, then love me? All because he isn’t man enough to do what is needed to done. He‘s no threat to you so you give him the attention, rather than love me!.” Bob’s voice had grown loud. She shook her head.

“No Bob! I tried and tried to love you! I tried to bring the love we found overseas here with us. But you didn’t and that’s what made things what they have come to. You don’t want a wife who loves you. You want something to say you’re married. Nothing more or less. It hurt to come to that realization, but I did!“ She turned away, trying to fight back the tears. Bob stood there in silence. She took this opportunity to come to Glenn’s defense.

“And another thing! All of you are wrong about Glenn. I know for sure now. He’s very much a man. He knows how to treat a woman. He understand women are to be loved and respected. That’s something neither you or his father know anything about. The sad thing is, you’re leading these boys down the same lonely path. Well, I’ve had enough. Glenn made me realize, what it means to be treated like you’re special. I’m going to rediscover that on my own. I’m leaving you Bob!” She said as a honk came from outside.

She walked to the door and beckon for the taxi driver to come. She pulled her luggage from the same spot Sheila had put hers. Bob was stunned for a few moments, until he realized what was going on. Lacey walked back in the house, grabbed her purse and sweater. Then Bob came to himself.

“Lacey! What are you doing?” He caught her by the shoulder and turned her to face him.

“I’m going to find a happy life Bob! One that you refused to give me.” She said moving out of his reach. He stood there watching her walk out of his life. To proud to do what was needed or to shock to realize the best thing he ever had, just walked out the door. He wasn’t able to the man and keep his wife from walking away.

Twenty-One

The afternoon had turned into evening and evening to night, as Glenn and Sheila made their way down the street, towards the house. They were holding hands and gazing into each others eyes, when they walked up the walkway to the porch. They stopped every second of the way, to kiss.

They stepped upon the porch, stopped and kissed, before entering the house. They released each other and went into the house, pausing at the staircase. Sheila stepped up on the third step, so she stood taller than Glenn.

She put her arms around his neck and began kissing him. He encompass her waist with his arms, deepening the kiss. A couple of the boys were coming out of their room, when they spotted the two downstairs.

“We’re being watched. Do we care?” Sheila said, pulling her head back and their lips just brushing together.

“I know! And no we don’t!“ Glenn said, gazing into her eyes. She laughed. She said recapturing his lips. By this time, others had come out to see what the two were staring at.

Glenn lifted her up in his arms and she wrapped her legs about his waist, as he balanced her on the banister. They couldn’t get enough of each other. Finally, they decided it was time to break away.

There will be many more of these encounters and they didn’t want to overdue it the first day. Glenn gently sat her down on the floor and stared into her eyes, for a long time. It was as if they were the only two in the world.

“Thank you, Dear Sheila! For being so persistent.” Glenn hooked her chin with his finger, as he continued to lock in on her eyes..

“No problem, My Darling Glenn!” He gave her a peck on the lips and lead her to the front door of her Uncle’s. She shook her head no.

“I want to see you walk up those steps. Now move it!” She laughed. He kissed her one last time and slowly ascended the steps, as the group parted for him to go through.

Sheila leaned on the banister and gazed after him, with a huge smiled on her face. All the boys heads had turned to watch Glenn disappear in his room, as his eyes kept fixed on Sheila. Then their heads snapped back down to Sheila, was in a dazed as she turned away from them and walked into through her Uncle’s door, closing it behind her.

They all stood there in silence for a long, long time. Not able to utter a word. If he thought Josie would give him a reputation, Sheila had made him a King among them. All the boys of the school, knew about Sheila and her antics at the diner and the breast flash.

Ross had never recovered from the pelvic rub she gave him and dreamt about many nights, waking up with a wet dream. And the boys that had the privilege, to get a sneak peek at her breast that day, fell in love with her. And now Glenn, the least expected. Had been the one, to do what they all could only hope. They turned and went back to their rooms, to dream of their fantasy woman.

Sheila leaned against the door for moments until she realized she wasn’t alone in the room. Her Uncle was sitting in a chair facing away form her. The room was unusually dark. He rose from the chair and came towards her. She got this sinking feeling something wasn’t right. And her feelings always were right!

“Uncle! What’s wrong? Where’s Auntie?” She walked to him and searched the room, then looked upstairs.

“Well, Lacey left me. We talked this evening! She didn’t feel I loved her anymore.“ He told her, she hadn’t seen him this sad since her father’s funeral.

“I’m sorry to hear that Uncle! But did you tell her you did love her? Did you try to make her believe it?“ Sheila asked him. Bob raised his hands shaking his head.

“I tried as best I could. It’s just that she had this thing for that boy. It was always that boy! From the time he stepped foot in this house, they were always together. My wife had a very deep affection for him. I guess he was the son she desired. You didn‘t notice?” Bob said. Sheila turned away, not wanting to reveal that she had seen it and the fact who she had been with for half a day. It wasn’t a son she desired in Glenn. Not at all!

“No I didn’t know! I guess that was something that slipped pass me.” She lied.

“Well, I guess I’ll turn in. By they way. Where were you all day?” Bob stopped behind her. Sheila turned and looked at him.

“I had to help out a friend.” Is all she would say. He looked at her, nodded and headed up to his room. Sheila felt her heart crack, as she saw the pain in her Uncle’s eyes.

He was so much like her father. They never understood the female gender, to hold on to them. She didn’t think he would recover from this blow. In the morning, is when it will hit him the most.

She had to find Lacey and let her know Glenn was alright. And see if she could persuade her to come back. Maybe she could do one more miracle. She took out the phone book and began to call all the local motels and hotels.

Then she thought it would be better to check the internet, to see if she had made any reservations on the bus or airplane. She doubt if Lacey would have made plans to leave, without knowing Glenn was alright and to give her information on how to contact her. It paid off. She took a shower and changed clothes. Then she left the house and went to get Lacey.

Twenty-Two

Josie walked through the lobby of the hotel and up the stairs, heading down the hallway searching for a room number. She came to it and smiled. She hadn’t seen her friend several years.

She was surprised when called telling her he would be in town for a night and wanted to see her. She went home and got all dollied up. It took a lot to cover up the black eye she got from Sheila. She would get her back, if its the last thing she did.

She walked up to the door and took in a huge breath of air, then slowly let it ease form her mouth. She softly knocked at the door and heard the footsteps grow closer. The door opened, revealing the tall hunk of a man standing behind it.

“Come in Josie! I’m glad you could make it! It’s been awhile!” He said, as she could never get pass his blue eyes. They were like two crystals staring at you.

“Yeah it has! But I’m glad you called me, Chase!” Josie walked into the room and discarded her coat. He took it from her and hung it up. He lead her to a sofa.

“Would you like something to drink?” He asked, walking over to the bar.

“Of course! You remember what I like?” She taunted him. He looked up and smiled, checking her out. The same old Josie. The years hadn’t been good to her. She was getting crows feet and her hair was all dried out from bleaching it. He wondered how many men she had been with over the years.

“Yeah I do!” He told her, as he poured her some vodka and orange juice. He walked over with both glasses in hand and handed her one, as he took a seat next to her on the sofa.

“So what brings you to town?” She asked. He took a sip and looked away.

“I was going though some old photos and one of you came up. I decided to come through on my way home.” He told her. She nodded.

“I’ve changed a lot. Been through a lot too. But you look amazing though.” She took a sip of her drink. That’s when he noticed the make covering the eye.

“What happened there?” He pointed to it. She turned away and left the sofa, walking away from him.

“Just a run in with this person, who hit town a couple of weeks ago. I did something she didn’t approve of. But I’ll get her back though. Anyway it’s nothing.” She said. then turned to him.

“What did you do? Sleep with her man?” He joked. She gave him a look. The expression on her face, told him enough.

“Didn’t you get marry or something?” She said, changing the subject. His face went gloom. He stared into the glass.

“Yeah! But she died.” He said sadly. Josie came over to sit next to him.

“I’m sorry to hear that. How did she died, if you don’t mind me asking?” She asked. He looked at her and frowned.

“It’s okay! She was in a car accident. Her car made a bad turn and she went off the cliff. We never found her body. Only the wreckage of the car. That’s why I’ve been traveling these last few weeks. I couldn’t stay in that house or town for another day! He told her and left his seat, pacing the floor. Josie looked over where he stood.

“Do you have a picture of her? She asked. His head snapped in her direction.

“Why?” He asked. She shrugged her shoulders.

“I just wanted to see the face of the woman, who stole Chase Benson’s heart.” She stared at him. He could see her feelings for him hadn’t changed, though his had for her.

“Sure Josie! I have one right here.” He got up from the sofa and went in his room, then came back with the picture in his hand.

Josie came over to him and took the picture. She looked at it and stared for what seemed like forever, dropping her drink. Then she walked away from him in total shock. Chase stared at her, wondering what was wrong. She looked as if she had seen a ghost.

“What’s wrong Josie?” He walked after her. She turned, eyes large as head lights.

“I know this woman and she aint’ hardly dead. Ask my eye!” She looked at him, then to the picture. Chase stood there for a moment, trying to register what Josie was saying. Then his heart fluttered, when he realized Sheila could be alive.

Lacey didn’t check into the room as thought. She decided to leave town completely. It was still early and she wanted to get as far as she could before night fall. She would phone the house when she got settled to check in on Sheila and Glenn.

Sheila entered the hotel Lacey had made reservations and walked up to the desk to find out Lacey‘s room number. She was informed Lacey hadn’t checked in and had cancel the reservation. She felt flustered. Now she knew she would never see her Aunt again. She turned to leave.

At that moment, Josie and Chase were coming down the stairs. Josie was the first to see her, as their feet touch the floor level. What luck and a nice night for payback! She nudged Chase and pointed to the woman heading for the hotel doors.

Chase’s eyes caught her and felt as if his legs would buckle from under him. But he had come to far and gather himself. He took long strides intercept her before she got out the doors. Sheila was just at the doors, when she spotted the huge reflection in the window and coming up behind.

It was too late to react, as a hand gentle grabbed her arm and spun her around to face him. His eyes told her all she needed to know, as he took her up in his arms and began to cry.

Sheila felt like a heel for doing what she had done. She spotted Josie over his shoulders and knew she had informed on her. But was curious, to how a dip like her could figure out how to find out who she once was.

Chapter Twenty-Three

“Sheila! Sheila!” He kept saying over and over, as he held her up in his arms. Her feet off the floor.

“Chase! Put me down! Please!” She whispered in his ear. He released her and she slowly came to the floor. They stood there for a few moments, staring into each others eyes. Him for the love of his life. Her for the man who found her and the killer of two people she had loved.

“I guess you want some explanation!” She said, turning from him and looking over at Josie. He looked in that direction too.

“It’s not what you think!” He said to her, looking back to her. She looked up at him.

“What do I think, I think, Chase?” She asked, a little irate. He didn’t understand why she was so angry, when she is the one who faked her death and left him.

“I don’t understand all of this! Why did you fake your death and had me grieving for the last month? I thought........” He started, then turned away. Sheila caught this and looked up at him. Something was wrong here.

“You thought what?” She walked around him and stood in front of him. He looked at her and went into thought.

“Let’s go up to my room and talk. There are some things you need to know.” He looked at her with earnest eyes. She stared into them and saw what she needed.

“Okay! But not with her!” She pointed to Josie. He looked over at Josie with kind eyes.

“Sure! Josie! Catch up with you later!“ He said to her. She nodded and understood. She looked at Sheila and wondered why such a classy man, would want to be with her. She wasn’t at all what he thought would catch his heart.

“No problem Chase! Take care of yourself and that heart of yours.” She gave a jab at Sheila. Sheila ignored her and started up the stairs.

Chase led her to his room and opened the door, allowing her to go in first. She stood in the middle of the front room and stared into the bedroom, to see if anything had gone on between Josie and him. The bed was untouched. Chase caught it and felt pleased she still had some feeling for him.

“You don’t ever have the need to be jealous of anyone. You have my heart signed, sealed and completely.” He sat down and gazed into her green eyes. She felt that old magic creeping in. She turned away and took a chair across from him.

“What is it you needed to tell me, that you couldn’t downstairs.” She said abruptly. Chase tilted his head and scooted back onto the sofa.

“Wow! You pretended to be dead, leaving me thinking someone had killed you and you’re sitting here before me, acting like nothing happened.” He started, feeling his anger taking over. Sheila looked at him and saw it. The last thing she wanted to do, is get him riled up and become another notch on his belt. Along with her father and David.

“I’m sorry Chase! I’m very sorry! I had no choice!” She told him. He looked at her and moved to the edge of the sofa.

“Did someone threaten you?” He came out and said. She looked at him curiously. Why would someone threaten her, except for him?

“No! Why? Am I in danger? You said you needed to tell me something.” She asked, anxious.

“Your fiancee David, was my cousin!” He revealed to her. Her face went through some changes. Then it sunk in.

“What are you trying to pull? If David was your cousin, why didn’t I know it?” She glared at him. He’s up to something.

“We didn’t let anyone know, especially you. Because I’m a undercover cop, trying to find out who murdered your father. It was pure accident that David met you and got thrown into the mixed. We gave me information, as he came across something and I did the same. He got too close to something or someone. He expected someone and was going to tell me that night. We were to meet, but he was killed. I had to keep a low profile. He asked me to look out for you, for him. I hadn’t meant to fall in love. Believe me on that!” He explained and left the sofa. Sheila stared into space, sorting all of this out. If what he was saying was true. Then he couldn’t have killed her father or David.

“If this is true, why doesn’t the FBI know you’re undercover?” Sheila asked, thinking about her fiend Paul and the information he gave her. Chase looked at her confused.

“FBI? How do you know whether the FBI knows what I’m doing or not?” He asked. She realized this information could get Paul in deep trouble if he was leaking things to her.

“I just went through some thing on my PC and there’s nothing about you being a undercover cop or even an cop.” She tried to smooth it over.

“Sheila! I have never lied to you about anything. So don’t lie to me! It’s very important that you tell me the truth! Your life depends on it!” He left the sofa and came to kneel before her. She sat back in the chair and saw he was very concerned.

“Please don’t ask who, but I have a friend in the FBI who gave me your name as the one who killed my father. I figured maybe you killed David too, because he got too close.” She explained to him. He looked at her and a sadness came into his eyes. She knew him enough to know what it was saying.

“I’m sorry Chase! I’m so sorry!” She said to him as he left her and went into the bedroom and reemerging with what looked like a wallet. He handed it to her and went to stare out the window. She opened it up and saw the badge, then looked over towards him.

“I’m sorry too, Sheila! I thought our love was a strong one, but I guess I was wrong. But looking back, I realized it was all me making this thing what it was. You were there, but your heart was somewhere else.” It was like he was seeing things for what they truly were and not what he wanted them to be. Sheila ran up behind him and put her arms about him, resting her head on his back.

“No Chase! I did and still do love you. What got in the way was my obsession to find my father and David’s killer. I trusted someone to feed me information. And should have come to you. Or better yet, believe in you!” She told him pulling him closer to her body. His body was reacting to her, but his heart was hesitant to get pulled in. She had hurt him more than she could know.

He moved away from her and went to sit down. She looked over to him and realized what they had, had gone. She did that! She chuckled. She was truly her father’s daughter and Uncle’s niece. They had a way of screwing up good relationships.

“Once you were persistent to get us together. Now it’s my turn to do the same. I’m not going to let you go that easy!” She walked over to him and kneeled down in front of him, staring him deep in his eyes.

When he saw she wasn’t lying, his heart skipped a beat. He couldn’t resist her if his life depended on it. He grasped her arms and pulled her up, looking into her eyes and all bets were off. He took her up in his arms and into the bedroom, closing the door behind him.

He made mad love to her, in gratitude for the opportunity to feel her body next his once again. Her body responded to his touch, giving into everything he did to it. But all the love she felt for this man and the love that he was releasing on her, couldn’t erase from her mind, the tender passionate afternoon with a young man coming to age.

When loved by a virgin, always causes a bond that transcends any other that may or will ever be formed. She will always be Glenn’s first and nothing will change that. She will never forget his innocent touch or the touch after the first time they made love. Nothing else could or would compare. He had marked her and she him. They will be connected throughout their lives and beyond.

Chapter Twenty-Four

Glenn woke early, if he had slept at all. He was still reeling from his afternoon with Sheila! One that would not be easily forgotten. He got up, showered and dressed, wanting to see Mrs. Rogers and Sheila. Each of these ladies, had played a very viable part in this new life he had begun.

He wanted to let Mrs. Rogers know, she was right about everything and how much he appreciated her faith in him. And then there was Sheila. He wanted so much to see if they could spend some time together. A knock came at his door and he rushed to answer it. Hoping it was Sheila to see him. But his hopes were dashed, as he stopped short when his father entered the room.

“Get your things together! You‘re going home for the summer, then you‘ll be attending another school in the fall“ His father said, not looking at him.

“So they expelled me!” Glenn looked over to his father.

“What did you think they were going to do? They can’t have this scandal hanging over the school.” His father told him, while keeping his back to him. Glenn looked at him, then out the window.

“Can I at least, get a chance to say goodbye to Mrs. Rogers and Sheila!” Glenn asked. His father snapped his head towards him.

“Not that it’s any of your concern. Lacey has left Bob and he has no idea where that niece of his went. She left last night, since her bed hadn’t been slept in. He has no idea where she went.” He told him. Glenn felt his heart sink. What if she has left and wasn’t coming back.

“Hey Ross! Guess what I heard.” Orson came running up the stairs. Glenn’s ears automatically perked, whenever these two were around. You never know. He just hoped, nothing is said about what went on between Sheila and him.

“What?” Ross asked. Glenn listened carefully.

“I stopped by the diner after breakfast and boy you should see Josie’s eye now.” Orson began to laugh, with Ross joining in.

“Yeah! Sheila really let her have it after what she did to Glenn!” He said. By that time Glenn went to closed the door, not wanting his father to hear anything else. But his father’s head had already turned towards the door, interested in what was being said. He blocked Glenn from going to the door.

“I want to hear more of this.” He told him. Glenn looked at him and turned away.

“But that’s not what I heard. It seems Glenn’s little girlfriend has a husband.” Orson revealed. Glenn felt a knife go through his heart. His father looked over to him, confused at the girlfriend comment. Glenn refused to look at him.

“What?” Ross asked.

“It seems her husband is a classmate of Josie. He came to town to see her. His wife was supposedly killed in an accident a few weeks back. He showed Josie the picture and that’s when Josie told him she wasn’t dead. They were going to come here, when they spotted her down in the hotel lobby. Josie said they went up to his room.” Orson explained to Ross, they started down the stairs. Glenn walked over to the window and sat on the seat.

“I wonder what does this means for? Especially after all that kissing they were doing down here.” Ross laughed. He was happy once again Glenn, is coming out on the short end of the stick.

“Yeah! I wondered where they were coming from.” Orson added. Glenn’s father closed the door and walked over to his son.

“What are they talking about, Glenn?” He stood over him. Glenn stared out the window.

“I don’t know!” Glenn answered, trying to figure this out.

“You don’t know! They’re calling Bob’s niece, your girlfriend and that you two came back last night together. Where were you and what went on?” His voice very irritated. Glenn jumped from the seat and walked pass his father, then turned on him.

“What was that you told Mr. Rogers when you brought and here, then went down to see him? You said, ‘Make a Man out of him!’ Isn’t that what you said Dad?” Glenn’s voice rising. His father stared at him, wondering who this person was in front of him.

“I......!” John started, but Glenn cut him off.

“Well, as you know what happened. The other night, when I went to see Josie and tried to prove I was just as much a man as all of you. But I couldn’t get into her and didn’t understand until yesterday. She wasn’t what I wanted. I felt like I was what everyone thought I was because I couldn’t. I wanted to die Dad! I wanted to die!” Glenn felt the tears flow down his cheeks. He turned away from his father, staring at the ground.

“I ran away from all of you, hoping to get a chance to end it. I didn’t want to live like this any longer, in doubt of myself. I had no one. Not even you, to see me through. Except for two people and I couldn’t face either of them. Mrs. Rogers and Sheila. But one of them was persistent. She came after me and tried to convince me I was wrong. But I refused to listen.” Glenn turned to his father, staring him defiantly in the eyes.

“She made a deal with me. She was going to kiss me and if I didn’t feel anything, she would leave me alone. I felt everything from her kiss and she knew it! I couldn’t stop! I wanted more of her. She didn’t deny me, showing me what love between a man and woman was all about. And then she told me Happy Birthday Dad!” Glenn looked at him with pride. His father sat down, to register what his son had just revealed to him. How could he had been so wrong? Why didn’t Bob see this? Lacey and his niece did! Then his head shot up to him.

“But she’s married son! You heard them. And she’s Bob’s niece. He can’t know about this. At least not until we’re gone. Look, she helped you through a bad time. Now it’s time to move on. Get your things and let’s go!” His father ordered him. Glenn stared down to the floor, then at his father.

“But I need to talk to her, Dad!“ Glenn told his father. His father glared at him.

“No you don’t! She evidently spent the night with her husband, after being with you earlier. What does that make her?” His father informed him. Glenn grew angry. His father can say and think whatever he wanted about him, but not Sheila.

“Don’t speak of her in that manner ever again. You don‘t know her or what she did.” Glenn glared at his father.

“You have always been naive about things. She gave you what you needed to keep you from killing yourself. Now her husband is back in the picture and you are yesterday’s news. Now don’t get me wrong or anything. I appreciate her making a man out of you. But now let’s get back to reality. You’re out of this school and need to vacate the premises immediately. Let’s go!” John stood firm. Glenn stood there for a few moments and realized there was nothing else he could do. He went to his closet and pulled out his luggage.

Chapter Twenty-Five

“I’m going to have to go home now, Chase!. I need to explain things to my Uncle, before big mouth Josie spreads everything about town.” Sheila told Chase, as she tied her shoes and started out the door. What she really was thinking, was about it getting back to Glenn! She wanted to explain things to him herself. She owed that much to him. Chase was still lying in bed, glowing from their night together.

“You want me to come along with you?” He asked, throwing back the sheet and preparing to get out of bed.

“No! You don’t know my Uncle! I think it’s better, if I explain things before I introduce you two.” She didn’t want him to know about Glenn, just yet. He looked at her, as he sat on the edge of the bed.

“Oh yes! You’re right! I’ll just wait for you to get back and we can finish what we started last night.” He left the bed and came up to her, putting his arms around her. She half smiled.

“I’ll call you from there. By that time, he’ll be soften up enough to meet you.” She tried to divert him. It didn’t work.

“Alright!” He said and captured her lips, kissing her deeply. She allowed him this and then pulled away.

“Sorry Baby! But I got to go, before he leaves.” She left his arms and headed out the door. He looked at her and shook his head. She was up to something.

He felt it last night, when they made love. A distance! It wasn’t the same. Something was between them and he didn’t know what. He knew it wasn’t the fact she had thought he killed her father and David. They had cleared that up.

It was something else. And now this morning he felt it again. He was going to find out what. He went to take a shower and dressed. He’ll give Josie a call and find out where she was staying. That shouldn’t be hard to find in this little community.

Sheila was coming up to the house, when she saw John just closing the door to a taxi! At first she thought he had saw her coming and turned back to the taxi, saying something as it drove away. He turned and went into the house, ignoring her approach. Her taxi pulled up in front of the house. She paid the driver then got out, going into the house. She paused for a moment, to see exactly where John had gone. She could hear him with her Uncle.

Quietly she made her way up the stairs and to Glenn’s room. The doors were opened, so she went in. She needed to explain things to him, before he heard it from someone else. She called to him, but saw all his belongings were gone. The room was bare of everything that was about him.

She searched the drawers and closet, trying to convince herself that something of him remained. But there was nothing to be found, that gave evidence that Glenn had ever occupied this room.

Realizing he was gone, she slowly walked over to window and sat on the seat, staring out into the backyard. Yesterday she had found something she lost long time ago. And in one night, she lost it again.

“He’s gone!“ The voice came from the doorway. Her head snapped up, to see John. She jumped to her feet and came towards him.

“Where has he gone?“ She asked, fighting back the tears. John stared at her without sympathy.

“I’m taking my son home and in the fall, he will he will be going to another school close to home. And I’m going to put this politely. Do not try to contact him in anyway!“ John told her firmly. Sheila stared at him, then turned away and walked towards the window.

“What harm would it be for me just to say goodbye. He had it bad here and I wanted him to know he had at least one friend.“ Sheila told him.

“Friend? Is what you two did yesterday, labeled friend now? That‘s not what we called it in our day!“ John said to her slyly. She twirled around stunned, that he knew what had went on between his son and her. Why would Glenn tell him?

“Glenn told you?“ Her voice quivering. John put a smiled on his face.

“Of course he did! Why wouldn’t he?“ John was very callous. Sheila could feel the tears stinging her eyes. Glenn told him? She turned away.

“And he knows about your night with the husband who thought you were dead!“ John sticking it too her. She looked back at him, tears dropping from her eyes.

“I wanted to explain it to him!“ She said. John walked up to her and stood over her. His eyes cold as ice.

“There’s nothing to explain. Your actions is explanation enough! You spent the afternoon with my son, then the night with a husband who thought you were dead. What is there to explain? You’re nothing that man son needs to associate with, let along be friends. Just be glad your Uncle won’t find out from me!” John turned and started towards the door, pausing there.

“You will stay away from my son or I will have you up on charges of statutory rape.” John told her, never looking back. Sheila looked at him and felt as if her world was tumbling around her.

She realized she had fallen in love with Glenn, without knowing it. He had given her something she had missed after losing David. Yes, Chase filled some of it, but Glenn made it complete.

“It wasn’t rape. He was a consenting adult.” She fought back the tears. John turned and came back to her.

“I have friends in high places. Come near my son and you will see how hard I can make life for you.” John glared at her for a moment, then turned and left her standing alone in Glenn’s room.

She backed up, until the bed stopped her. She slowly sat down and stared into space. She heard someone else come into the room. She looked up to see Chase. From the expression on his face, she knew.

“You heard everything?” She looked at him. He walked over to the window and sat down.

“So this is who was in our bed with us last night. A young boy!” He told her, shaking his head. She looked at him, not hardly able to say anything.

“No! Not a boy by no means. But every bit the man. Always had been.” She said and began to cry.

Chapter Twenty-Six

Sheila made her way down to her Uncle’s. She had to talk to him about her father. Chase followed behind her. They walked through the door, seeing her Uncle sitting in a chair, lost!

“Uncle! I hate to bother you with a lot of stuff, but I’m going back home tonight and need something from you.” Sheila sat in a chair across from him. He never looked up to see the other person in the room or maybe he wouldn’t had stared talking about Lacey.

“She’s gone Sheila! It’s that damn boy’s fault! I knew those two were getting too close. I should have stopped it before it got to this far. I’m glad he’s gone and I don’t have to see his face anymore.” Bob growled.

“Uh, Uncle! I want you to meet my husband!” Sheila interrupted him before he could go any further. Chase gave her this inquiring look. She shook her head. Bob looked up at her confused, then his eyes caught the image of someone out the corner.

“Hello Sir!” Chase extended his hand as Bob rose to his feet, turning to get a good look at the man standing in his living room.

“Husband? You never said you were married? Why?” Bob looked back at Sheila.

“It’s a long story Uncle!” She told him. He nodded his head.

“I’m sure it is! But I have nothing but time. So explain.” Bob gestured for Chase to have a seat then looked at Sheila to start. She began form the beginning. Leaving out Glenn completely.

Bob left his chair and walked over to the back door, staring out into the garden Lacey had worked on since the day she arrived. He sorted through everything his niece had just told him. All about her running away and becoming an private detective to find out who killed her father. Meeting another private detective who erased her identity off the face of the earth. No wonder she was untraceable. She didn’t exist.

He was killed, probably because he had stumbled onto something. Then this Chase guy pops up in her life and they get married. She gets some information that he could have killed both her father and her fiancee. She fakes her death and wind up there. He later finds out she’s not dead and here we are! He turned from the door and sees his niece coming from her room with what looks like a stack of letters. She hands them to him.

“What are these?” He asked, looking them over. Then he knows exactly what they were.

“Did you get these from my stack?” He looks up at her. She looks down at the ground, nodding her head. Chase sits back and observes everything.

“Yes!” She said. He wanted to go into a rage! But after the last two days, he just didn’t have it in him.

“Why didn’t you just come to me, Sheila? I could tell you about what went on just before he died.” He looked at her. The tears were coming hard. Too much in such a little while.

“I just wanted to know the truth, so I can get some closure.” She looked up at him, crying. He took her in his arms. Of course she would want it.

“Come sit and let me tell you what I know!” He led her to the chair across from where he sat.

“What the letters didn’t tell you and he did to me over the phone. The loan shark he had borrowed the money from was working for someone on the police force. Your father found this out two days before he was killed. This was a very crooked cop and your Dad was going to score big on the information. I guess the person found out and killed him.” Her Uncle revealed to her. Sheila stood to her feet and felt a load drop from her shoulders. At least she knew how and why he died. Now to find out who!

“A crooked cop huh? He could be still on the force or retired.” Sheila began talking to herself.

“Or worst dead!” Chase injected. Sheila and Bob looked over to him. He shrugged his shoulders.

“Uncle! You wouldn’t by chance have a name, would you?” Sheila asked. He sat back thinking through. It had been some years. Then he remembered something.

“I’ll be right back!” Bob jumped form his chair and rushed up stairs. Chase watched Sheila pace back and forth.

“Now we’re looking at a crooked cop! You know how hard it is to get to them?” He stood up and walked in her path. She stared at him, void of feelings.

“Everything can be got to!” She said and walked away as her Uncle came back down the stairs. He handed her a letter he had put aside. The very last one he received after his brother’s death. Sheila unfolded it and looked in it.

“An handkerchief? With initials!” She looked at the content.

“He didn’t tell me how he came into it’s possession and I didn’t ask.” Bob told her. She looked at him and nodded.

“Thank you Uncle! This may prove to be very valuable.” She gave him a peck on the cheek.

“You’re leaving now aren’t you?” He asked, feeling like everyone he loved and care, was abandoning him.

“I’ll be back. In fact I’m only taking something for a few days.” She assured him. Chase felt the lump in his throat hang there. he knew now it was over. Over because a boy became a man and in the process stole her heart.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Sheila and Chase took the long drive home, barely saying an word. It was nearly evening, when the drove up the long driveway of the home they had shared. Sheila looked up and tried to reconnect to the place she had called home once. Chase looked over to her, picking up her suit case. She didn’t lie to her Uncle, she wasn’t planning on staying.

They walked into the house and the servants gasped to see Sheila accompanying him. She said hello to each and headed up the stairs to the guest room. Chase watched her, then turned to go into the parlor. He needed a drink.

“So Chase! Want to fill me in on what is going on? I thought she was dead.” Craig, a close friend who had moved in when Sheila was thought dead.

“She faked her death is all I know!” Chase told him flatly. He wasn’t giving anything away. Craig poured himself a drink and watched Chase sit down.

“So where does that leave you two?” He took a dink. Chase looked over to him, sadly.

“She’s only here for a few days to straighten some things up, then she’s leaving again.” Chase downed his drink. Craig looked surprised.

“But you two were like to love birds.” Craig told him. Chase looked at the glass in his hand.

“Two love birds that got slingshot by a boy! And hard too.” Chase got up and went to the bar to refill. He needed to get good an drunk. Craig went to the door and looked up the stairs. Then back at his friend.

“By a boy? What do you ever mean?” He chuckled. Chase downed the next shot and looked at him.

“A boy! You know those things we were once and grew up to be men. And a virgin at that!“ Chase half-heartedly laughed. Craig’s eyes enlarged, as he came over to his friend.

“You mean she de-cherried a boy? If that is a word. And he was that good, that he turned her out?” Craig reached over and had to refill his drink. This was going to be a god story to hear. He sat and listen as Chase told him what he knew.

Sheila sat on the bed, staring at the handkerchief. There was something very familiar about that handkerchief. It seems she had seen that monogram before, but couldn’t remember. Maybe it was because her mind was elsewhere.

Tomorrow she would find out all the officers, employed with the department during that time and if they matched with those who were employed at the time of David’s death. She walked over to the window and stared out. She wondered what Glenn was doing and if he was thinking of her at all.

“Hello Mr. Rogers?” Glenn whispered through the phone. Bob had been drinking and was barely understanding anything at the moment.

“Yeah! Who’s calling?” He asked. Glenn could tell his voice sounded differently.

“Mr. Rogers! This is Glenn! May I speak to Sheila? I really need to talk to her.“ He asked him.

“Glenn? Look boy! She’s not here! She went home with her husband and I don’t think she’ll be coming back. So don’t call here anymore. My wife and niece no longer live here.” He told him and hung up the phone in his face. Glenn listen to the dial tone flowing through his ear, then slowly set the phone in its cradle. She’s gone from him forever. He slid to the floor and began to cry.

Sheila turned away from the window, feeling a sadness come over her. She could find out where Glenn was if she wanted. And maybe once she got everything taken care she would. She lost once, she want twice. His father doesn’t know her very well. She has never been able to succumb to threats. It just makes her more determined.

“Glenn my love! Just hold out! I’ll find you!” She whispered to herself, then went over to her bed. She laid down feeling overwhelmed. So much to do! She drifted off to sleep before she knew it.

“Hello Sir! I just wanted to let you know, Mr. Benson came home tonight.” The Butler informed the person on the other end.

“Well him coming home is not why I called Sir! It’s who brought home with him that I thought you would be very interested to know about.” He continued, pausing for the response on the other end.

“Mrs. Benson, Sir!” He told them, looking around to make sure no one was listening to him.

“Yes Sir! She’s alive and well!” he paused again.

“I thought you would be interested. No Sir! I won’t say a word. Good bye!” He hung the phone up and eased away to his room.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Sheila tapped into the old police employee files, coming across a few names that would match from that time until recently. Her friend’s Paul Graves came up, but only for recently. She laughed. Paul wouldn’t do anything like that. He was too into the law.

She had tried to avoid Chase most of the day. She knew once he got home, he would want to talk about their marriage and where it was going. She didn’t understand it either.

Chase was a wonderful guy, but she realized she wasn’t in love with him. It took Glenn to make her understand that. If she had loved him as she thought. She would have had some faith in him, as she did Glenn.

She closed down the laptop, wanting to get some down time. She heard the door bell ring and knew it was probably for Chase, as no one knew she was there. Unless Craig alarmed the world. A few minutes later, a knock came at her door. She called for them to come in.

“Mrs. Benson! You have a visitor!” The maid opened the door and informed her. She looked over towards, her curious. Who knew she was there?

“Who is it Betty?” She asked. The maid walked in.

“A Mr. Graves!” She told her. Sheila felt her heart skip. She hadn’t bothered to tell him she was alive. She got out of the bed and followed the maid down stairs. She walked into the parlor and there he stood waiting for her entrance. She ran into this arms glad to see an old friend.

“Oh Sheila darling! It’s so good to see you are really alive.” He held her so close. She backed away to look him in the eyes. Then she began to cry. He reached in his coat pocket and handed her an handkerchief.

“You always seemed to have what I need, whenever it’s needed.” She said taking the handkerchief as she had done the night of David’s death. She wiped her eyes and then without thought put the handkerchief in her pocket. As she had done before.

“You need to fill me in on what happened and where have you been all this time?” Paul started his interrogation. She looked at him and laughed.

“Where is my manners. Would you like something to drink? And why are you down here anyway?” She asked, realizing he was far away from his job.

“I’m here on an assignment. A scotch will do.” He told her and watched her pour him a drink. At that time the phone rung, but she elected to allow the maid to answer it.

“Must be something big!” She handed him the glass. He looked at her and smiled.

“Can’t tell you anything about it.” He said and took the drink in hand. She walked over to a chair across form him.

“What’s on your mind?” He asked. She came out of her dazed and looked at him.

“Nothing. Just something that happened while I was away.” She was saying when the maid entered the room.

“Mrs. Benson! Mr. Benson on the phone for you.“ She told her. She nodded and leaving her chair went over to the desk by the door.

“Yes Chase!” She held the phone to her head.

“Okay! I have some information that might be helpful too.” She said after an paused.

“I’ll see you when you get here. Be careful!” She told him.

“I love you too! Always remember that!” She felt like de ja vu, in saying that to him. She held onto the phone as it went dead on the other side. Paul watched intensely, seeing something was bothering her.

“I thought with the information I gave you about him, would make you stay as far away form him as possible.” Paul broke her thought. She looked over to him and came to sit back in the chair.

“Whoever gave you that information was wrong. Chase was David’s cousin and he’s a police officer. He was helping David investigate my father’s death.” She told him. A strange expression flew across his face, that she caught.

“No kidding?” He took the last of his drink then rose form his chair and walked away. Sheila looked at him curious.

“You are so right! Whoever gave me that information was very wrong. An innocent man could’ve been easily arrested or worst for something he didn’t do.” He turned to look at her. She nodded her head.

“That’s true.” She agreed. He came to sit in front of her.

“But that’s why you faked your death, so he couldn’t find you! Right?” He asked.

“Yes! I needed to get away to think. He found me by pure accident. He explained to me who he was, after I told him what I thought he had done.” She told him. He stood there like a statue and stared at her, but not seeing her.

“Earth to Paul!” Was all he heard as he came back to reality.

“What’s wrong?” She asked. he stood tot his feet and took a couple of steps away from her.

“Nothing! I’m just glad you’re alive and safe. It’s good Chase is there for you.” He told her, looking over his shoulder at her.

“Why thank you! I’m sorry I couldn’t chance putting you in the loop!” She told him. he smiled.

“I understand! Well, I have something I need to take care of. I’ll see you later?” He walked towards her and gave her a big hug. She nodded her head.

“Of course. Maybe you can come for dinner tomorrow night?” She asked. He thought for a few, then nodded.

“I’ll be more than happy to dine with you.” He told her, as they walked towards the front door.

“Paul be careful!” She said, as he went through the door.

“I always do!” He said to her and looked her deep in the eyes. For some reason unexplainable to her. The way he said this and the tone of his voice, sent chills up her spine. She thought maybe the chilly night had sent a small breeze. She watched him get into his car and drive away, waving. Chapter Twenty-Nine

A woman’s intuition, plays a large part in what may or may not happen. She slowly closed the door and began her ascent up the stairs. Something was bugging her and she just couldn’t quite put her fingers on it. Something in the air was brewing. It may have been the sense of de ja vu when Chase called, reminding her of the night David died.

Or maybe she was feeling the lost of Glenn! Whatever it may have been, she fell in her bed and cried. If all those boys back at the school could see her now, they would see, she wasn’t this tough person she had portrayed.

She dug in her pocket and retrieved the handkerchief given to her by Paul. She sat up and wiped the tears from her eyes, then began straightening out the handkerchief searching for a dry spot. That’s when she saw them.

The two things that would change everything and make her remember others. The initials PG, plain as day. Then she rushed to her suitcase and searched through it. There amongst her underwear she had thrown in, was the handkerchief given to her the night David had died. PG for Paul Graves.

But he had checked out as not being on the force at the time. She hit herself in the forehead with the palm of her hand. But maybe not this particular precinct. She ran to the phone to call Chase.

Chase had stepped out of his office and went down to the kitchen to make himself a something to eat. It had been a very fruitful day and he couldn’t wait to get home and tell Sheila.

He was on his way back up, when he heard the phone ringing. He rushed towards his office, fumbling for his keys. But by the time he reached the door and unlocked it, the phone stopped. He sat his dinner on his desk and felt if it was important, they would call back.

Sheila let the phone ring as long as she could, wondering where Chase had gone off to. Maybe he was coming home after all. She hooked up her laptop and searched for history on Paul Graves. He had been a cop for some time and was employed with another precinct as she thought.

He transferred a few years after her father’s death. She felt this was to keep tabs on any investigation. She closed the laptop down and began to pace. How did Paul know she was alive? Someone had to tell him. Maybe Craig spread it around. She heard the doorbell ring and ran to the banister looking down. Chase wouldn’t ring the bell. It was Craig. She rushed down the stairs to him.

“Craig! Did you tell Paul I was alive?“ She just came right out and asked. He looked at her curious.

“Paul! Who’s Paul? Both Chase and I thought it better to keep the lid on it. “Craig told her. She remembered the two hadn’t ever met. Craig looked at her wondering what was going on.

“Have you talked with Chase today?” She asked. He started for the parlor.

“Yeah! About thirty minutes ago. He said he would meet here about eleven. Hey, you have any ice?” He asked. She looked at him and took the ice bucket, heading for the kitchen.

“Betty can you fill this with ice? Where is George?” She realized he hadn’t been heard from all day.

“I don’t know Miss! He never came up!” She told her, as she put ice in the bucket.

“Didn’t anyone think to check on him?“ Sheila got this strange feeling. That wasn’t like him.

“Yes! I did, but he didn’t answer. I thought maybe he had made some arrangement with Mr. Benson to take the day off.“ Betty handed her the bucket.

“Take the bucket in to Mr. Taylor and ask him to meet me out at George’s place.“ She told the maid and started out the back door, down towards the servant quarters. Something just wasn’t right about this. She came up to his quarter, the lights were out. She knocked and waited, but nothing.

“He hasn’t been seen or heard from all day, Mrs. Benson.” The Gardener came out of his place. She looked at him.

“Has he been acting strange lately?” She asked him, wondering if he was into something.

“Well, I didn’t want to get him into any trouble or anything Miss! But I did overhear him telling someone last night that Mr. Benson had come back home. Then added you were with him. He seemed bent on, making it a point you were back and alive.” He informed her. She felt like something foreboding just took her over.

“What’s going on Sheila?” Craig walked up the path. She turned to him.

“Something bad Craig! Very bad. Tom go up to the house and tell Betty to send me the keys. I need to get into Georges place.” She told him then turned to Craig!

“I hope I’m wrong, because if I’m right about what I’m feeling. Chase is in danger!” She told him and turned back to the quarter.

“How so?” Craig asked. She shook her head.

“I’ll explain later, we need to get inside and find out what’s going on with George!” She looked up and saw Tom running down the path with the keys.

She took them and found the key she needed, unlocking the door. She click the light switch and moved into the place. She looked in the bedroom and saw the bed hadn’t been slept in, then she went into the bathroom, to see if he had taken anything. She caught something out the corner of her eyes, turned to get a good view.

“Aiiieeeee!” She screamed and ran into Craig’s arms. Tom went into investigate, then came out shaking his head.

“He’s dead, Miss!” He told her. She stayed in Craig’s arms shaking. George’s throat had been cut and his body laid in the tub. Then she came to her sense. Chase!

“Call the police. I’m going to Chase!” She ordered Tom, then turned to Craig.

“I’m going with you!” Craig followed her.

“No! Take care of things here. I’ll be alright!” She told him, then ran into the house up to her bedroom.

She tried calling Chase again. No answer. She went to her closet and pulled out a box she had hidden away and took out her gun. She took enough ammunition. She ran down the stairs and out the door, jumping into her car. She sped into the night, to do what she wasn’t able to do a couple of years ago. Save the man she loved. Chapter Thirty

Glenn sat at his window, staring out into the night. A dread had haunted him all day. He could feel it ever so strong now, than before. He wondered if it meant something. He left the window and began pacing the room, like a caged animal. He was restless and didn’t know why. He took up his pad and sat down on his bed, staring down at the drawing of Sheila.

Then something shot through him A fear of something to come. He sat the pad down and went over to the window, looking out. As if searching for something that would ease his mind. The essence called Sheila.

Where was she and what was she doing at this moment? He took in a deep breath, wishing all that was holy to keep her safe. Then he thought to himself. Why would that come into his mind?

Sheila came to the restaurant, parking a ways down from it. She didn’t want to alarm Paul, if what she felt was true. She used the back way to enter, slowly walking through the kitchen. Then going up the secret elevator she knew about. She stepped out on the floor of Chase’s office and found everything was quiet.

She came to Chase’s office. It didn’t seem as if anyone was inside. She opened the door and walked in. Chase wasn’t there. Maybe he went home. She moved further in and that’s when she saw his feet extended out from his desk. She ran over and saw he had been shot badly. She took his head in her hand and looked into his eyes that were dimming fast.

“Sheila! It was Paul!” He told her, his voice barely above a whisper. She rubbed the side of his face, as the tears formed.

“I know! I wished I had come sooner!” She told him.

“I love you so much!” He told her. She rocked him back and forth.

“And I love you too, my darling! Know that, if you know nothing else.” She was being very honest. No matter what her feelings for Glenn! Her love for Chase was genuine. She knew that more than ever at this moment, as he slipped away from her. She held on to his body for moments afterwards, until she heard someone walk into the room. She slowly picked up her gun, unnoticed.

“Sheila! What happened here?” Paul’s voice filled the room.

“Someone killed my husband!” She told him, not moving. She could hear his foot steps, moving cautiously closer to her. She got her gun ready. Gently laying Chase to the floor.

“I got the call something was happening out at your place an maybe here.” He explained why he was there. She slowly came to her feet, back to him and concealing her weapon.

“I don’t remember saying anything had happened here.” She told him. A quietness came over the room.

“You must have or I wouldn’t be here.” His voice was strange. She turned to him, gun behind her and looked him in the face. Why hadn‘t she seen this before? Maybe because he was David‘s friend. Or maybe because he had been there for her many times. But yes, there it was in his eyes. Dark and cold.

“George is dead Paul! You know George. My butler, who called someone last night and informed them I was alive. How did you say you knew I was alive Paul?” She stared him in the eyes. He looked at her and began to walk across the room.

“Do you know how long I have been in love with you?” He started. Sheila caught her breath. She didn’t know. But when he looked at her, she knew then.

“From the very first time I laid eyes on you. There you were, my best friend David’s then girlfriend. I thought, this beautiful woman and I couldn‘t get her out of my mind. And after I had o take care of David for being too nosy, I thought maybe you would turn to me. But you didn’t did you Sheila?” His voice grew cold.

“It’s always someone else with you isn’t it Sheila! Why couldn’t you come to me? We could be married and all of this wouldn’t have to end like this.” His voice was growing crazy. Sheila griped her gun, watching him very closely. She knew he was armed and at any time could turn on her.

“I’m sorry Paul! But I never thought......!” She started but was cut short by him.

“That’s the problem Sheila, you don’t think! If you did, you would have saw it in my eyes or felt it whenever I held you n comfort. But you didn’t.“ His voice was shaky. He was losing it.

“Why did you kill my father?“ She felt she didn’t have anything to lose and maybe she could stall for time.

“He was double crossing me. He found out who I was and wanted to blackmail me. I couldn’t have it. David discovered that I was the top dog and I had to get him out the way. George was a plant, but he was gaining a conscience, when I told him what I had to do. And you know Chase discovered I was the crooked cop! I guess you had things figured out too, didn’t you Sheila? Or you wouldn’t be here now.“ He said, turning away from her.

She knew this was it. He unbuttoned his jacket and with one swift move. Pulled the gun out and turned firing it. But Sheila had already raised her gun, firing as he turned. The gunshots rang out in the night, as the room lit up from the fire igniting from the barrels. The police along with Craig, drove up to witness all of this. They rushed up into the building and up to the room that was silent now.

“Sheila!“ Glenn shot up in bed, after having a nightmare. Or was it?Chapter Thirty-One

Four Years Later

Glenn was trying to get a last wink, before he started his day. It was his Birthday and he had tied one on that night. He rolled over in bed, covering his head with a pillow, to block out the sunlight. But the chitter-chatter of the birds outside his window, was too much of a distraction. He flung the pillow off and sat up on the side of the bed, his head began to pound.

“What was the license number of the bus that hit me?“ He said lying back on the bed, trying to stop the pounding.

This time he eased up off the bed and straddled the side, holding his head between his hands and slid his feet into his slippers. He stood up slowly and walked over to the closet door, taking his robe from the hook.

He made his way through the living room and into the kitchen. He put on some water, to boil for some coffee and sat down at the table, waiting for the water to boil. He really needed that first cup badly.

His mind drifted back to the night before his Birthday four years ago when he had took a drank before everything happened that got him kicked out of school. His eyes went to the kettle.

Fond memories of Mrs. Rogers and the times she had made tea, with tea cakes for him. And how she supported him when things got pretty hectic at the end of the school year. In fact, that was the last time he saw Mrs. Rogers.

How well he remembered that day, that could have not only been his birthday. But his death day. Now he could look back on that day, with great confidence in the man he is. Mr. Rogers and his Dad, were wrong about how to be a man. It didn’t took what they were telling him. He could know how to sew, cook and anything else he desired. And still remain true to himself. A man.

He would be graduating in a couple of months. He had wrote a book about those days and it became a best seller. He was almost finished with another book, that should be just as successful. Both are romantic novels. He found women like those things. Also his drawings of Mrs. Rogers and Sheila had sold well. They were called, ‘The Nameless Beauties’.

He had met a fine girl. They had gone steady for a year now. She still had a year to go before she graduated. As soon as things get where he wants them, he decided to ask her to marry him.

Mrs. Rogers was right again. She always told him one day he would meet someone and it would be right for him. The kettle whistled, bringing him out of his thoughts. He rose from his seat and gingerly walked over to it, taking it off the fire.

He poured some water in a cup and a couple of spoons of coffee, then went back to sit down. As he sipped the coffee, he looked around at his apartment. His independence from his father. He had made enough to support himself and more. He enjoyed his solitude, as he has always.

Then he remembered another sweet lady, who helped him through that time. Sheila! She gave him a present that day, he will take with him for the rest of his life. She gave him hope and his manhood.

She showed him what love was all about. It’s not how you can laid down with someone, but how you can get up with them and stared them in the face, with just as much affection as before you laid down.

He thought he fell in love and thought she felt the same. But the next morning, he found out she was married and had spent the night with her husband. He wanted to confront her, he had been expelled from the school and had to leave.

Mr. Rogers wouldn’t talk to him and told him not to call back there. Mrs. Rogers had left him so he couldn’t get any information from her. It seemed his birthday was full of surprises. He lost contact with everyone. He took another sip of coffee, feeling a lot better.

He went over to the counter and opened the bread box, taking to slices out and popped them in the toaster. A little food may help the recovery along. His heart begin to ache from thinking about Sheila.

As much as he had tried to move on, he hasn’t been able. Every time his birthday came around, he thought of her. She was his first and a bond between them had formed. That’s why he had dragged his feet on asking his girlfriend to marry him or been with her. No one could take her place. A knock at the door, broke his thoughts. He started towards the front door.

“Yes!” He said, opening the door. It was an telegram. His heart froze, he didn’t know what was wrong. Was it his Father? Took it and tipped the carrier. He reluctantly opened it.

Dear Glenn,

I want to first wish you a very Happy Birthday and secondly I need to see you.

There’s a park uptown New York, I like to frequent. Near a children’s section, I sit and watch them play. Meet me there. Two O’ Clock!

Sincerely,

Lacey Rogers

It was from Mrs. Rogers. He quickly made his way to the bedroom and took out something to wear, took a shower and dressed. He took the train, as it would take a couple of hours to get there. She was so close to him and never knew it. But she knew where he was.

He took a taxi to the destination, paid the driver and got out. He stood assessing the park, discovering where the children’s section would be. He asked a passing stranger, who nicely pointed it out to him.

He walked up the path coming to the area, checking his watch for the time. He still had about thirty minutes. He sat down on one of the benches and watched the children play. He smiled at their antics. Then he thought how nice it would be to have a child.

That’s something his girlfriend never talked about. She always seemed to avoid that subject completely. A little girl ran pass him, breaking his thought frame and into the sandbox. He thought how pretty she was, with her sandy curly hair.

“Glenna!” A woman’s voice, called to the little girl from behind him.

He stiffen, as the figure rushed pass him and caught up with the little girl. He sat there staring, not believing what his eyes were seeing. He clasped his hand over his heart. It was Sheila, standing before him. A little older, but just as beautiful.Chapter Thirty-Two

Glenn sat on the bench watching Sheila interact with the little girl in the sandbox. She never once noticed he was there, as she was completely into the little child. She looked to be about three to four years maybe.

Glen’s eyes squinted as he realized something. That’s why she never sought him out. She had went back to her husband and they had a child, living the happy life. He felt the anger swell within him. He had pined for her all these years, wondering where she was and what she was doing. An all along his father was right. She was no different form Josie.

“Sheila!” He called out her name, as he came to his feet. Her head swirled around in the direction she had heard her name called. Her eyes fell on the tall man, standing not more than five feet from her. At first she didn’t recognize him, but after a closer look. She knew exactly who this man was standing there. Her heart did a flip.

“Glenn!” She said, not knowing what to do. Glenn just stood in place, staring at her. Sheila started towards him.

“Hi Glenn!” She said softly. He didn’t say anything, as he continued to look at her. She could see something different in his eyes. That affection he had, was exchanged with a distance stare.

“How do you do it, Sheila?” He finally said something. She looked at his strangely.

“Do what, Glenn?” She was confused. He tilted his head to the side, in disbelief.

“Wow! Was I wrong about you in so many ways. I should have known, that next day after we.........!” He stopped. As that memory of her, was the only thing that made everything bearable. But now, knowing she went back to her husband and started a family, forgetting about him. Was too painful to think about.

“Wrong about me? In what way?” She walked a little closer to him. he turned away from her.

“Where did you go the night we were together?” He asked. She felt her heart stopped. She took a deep breath, then exhaled.

“I wanted to tell you, Glenn!” She started. Glenn turned on her.

“I know you were married and that your husband had this idea you were dead. What else. Oh yes! You were with him that night. Did you love him too?” Glenn was being polite in asking her if she had slept with her husband. Tears formed in her eyes.

“Well, I found out what happened and know the end results.” He told her. She stepped back and wondered where this hostility had come.

“Glenn! Let me explain, please!” She walked towards him, but he backed away. She stared at him, with pleading eyes. Glenn looked away. She still had an effect on him.

“Go ahead!” He told her, going to sit on the bench and giving her his full attention. She took a seat on the other end.

“When I graduated from school. I ran away and changed my name. That’s why my Uncle couldn’t find me. I became a private detective and began to investigate my father’s murder. My then fiancee found out more than he should have and was killed. I met my husband a year later. Several months after we were married, got some information that he may have been the person for both my father and fiancee’s murders. I needed to get disappear and come to my Uncle. I felt he may have information he withheld from me and I could use.” She told him. He listen with this blank face.

“You faked your death?” Glenn asked her. She looked over to him realizing he knew more than she thought.

“Yes! It was the only way to keep him from searching for me and finding my Uncle.” She looked over to him. He had grown so much. Nothing like that tall slender boy she made love to. He was a man well filled out.

She couldn’t stand him so near and yet so far. She wanted to jump into his arms and pick up where they left off four years ago. He has been all she had thought about. He turned his head away from her and looked over at the little girl playing in the sandbox. Sheila followed his eyes.

“So what changed your mind about him when he did find you?” He didn’t look at her.

“He explained some things to me. He was very hurt that I didn’t believe in him and felt that the love between us was one sided.” She told Glenn. He looked over to her.

“That made two of us!” Glenn snorted. Sheila looked at him and then turned her face away, not wanting him to see the effect he was having on her.

“Glenn!” She said, holding back the tears. He rose form the bench and began to pace.

“Glenn what? You made love to me Sheila! You showed me what it was all about. It may have been my first time, but I know what it felt like. It felt so good and so right! Was I wrong?” He looked at her, tears filling his eyes.

“Oh no! No Glenn! You’re so right! It was right and very much good!” She came to her feet and walked towards him. He looked down at her. Something in him called pride clouded his mind.

“You were with me all that afternoon. Sharing with me something I thought was very special between us. How could you so readily fall in bed with another man? It seems you were wrong.” Glenn said to her. She looked at him puzzled.

“What do you mean? What was I wrong about?” She asked. He walked up to her, towering over her.

“You told me one time, you weren’t like either Mrs. Rogers or Josie. You’re right about Mrs. Rogers. She wouldn’t have gone back to Mr. Rogers, if she been the one to come to me that day. But wrong about Josie! That‘s something she would have done!” He told her, turning away. She stood there in shock, for a few moments. Then she felt the anger rising. How dare he be so judgmental.

“Yeah Glenn! You’re right! I was wrong about a lot of things and you were one of them.” She snapped at him. He turned around to face her.

“No Sheila! My feelings for you were genuine. I haven’t been able to be with another woman since I was with you. I have a fiancee but we have never. Because no one can compare.” He informed her. She looked at him and turned away.

“I know! The truth is Glenn! I haven’t been with anyone since I was with you.” She told him. She heard him move behind her.

“Why lie Sheila! You slept with him and over there is proof!” Glenn pointed to the child. Sheila turned and looked over at her daughter. All the love she had for this child beamed on her face.

“No Glenn! You’re wrong in more ways then one. I didn’t make love to my husband that night. But you! It was you in that bed with me, not him. He knew it and felt it. I told him about you and what I wanted.” She continued to look at her daughter.

“So you divorced him? If that’s true, why didn’t you use your PI skills and try to find me?” Glenn asked. She looked over to him.

“You don’t know, do you?” She said, realizing his father never told him she had come looking for him. Glenn tilted his head to the side, puzzled.

“Know what?” He asked. Sheila looked away and shook her head. John was a piece of work.Chapter Thirty-Three

“I was at the house that day. You must have been in the taxi that drove away, as I drove up. He had a little talk with me, about how he would make life a living hell if I tried to contact you. But you see I was going to look for you, after I solved my father’s murder.” She explained to him. Glenn came a little closer to her, after hearing what his father did.

“My Father never told me you were there looking for me or what he had did. And Mr. Rogers told me you went back to your husband. I assumed.” He said. She looked over to him and chuckled.

“Remember what assume does. I was with my husband so we could solve the murders. I found out my husband and fiancee had been cousins. And that my husband was also a cop. They were working together on the investigation.” She informed him.

“So did you solve it?” Glenn asked. She smiled a little seeing him coming back this way.

“Sadly we did. But with a huge price. My husband was killed the following night. A close friend, I thought did it. He almost killed me. We had an shoot out.” She looked up at him as he began to walk toward her with an shocked expression on his face.

“So that’s what I felt that night. You were in danger. What happened? Did you get hurt?” He asked looking her over. She smiled from relief.

“I was shot in the head, the bullet passed through the edge of my brain. It didn’t do much damage. I was in a coma for a while. When I came out, I discovered I was pregnant.” She turned her eyes to the little one, coming to her.

“Well, at least you have something to remember him by.” Glenn said this with such sadness.

“Mommy!” The little girl called to her. Glenn watched her run to her mother. Sheila reached down and picked her up into her arms, as the two continued to stare each other down.

“She’s beautiful!“ Glenn told her. Sheila walked towards him with the child in her arms. The child looked where her mother was going and wondered who this man she was talking to.

Glenn’s eyes fell on the little face, staring up at him. That’s when he saw the eyes, hazel like his. Then he realized something. Could it possibly be his. His face revealed what he thought. And from the look on Sheila’s face, he was right in his deduction.

“Wait! You said that I was wrong about more than one thing!” He looked in Sheila’s eyes. They told him what he needed to know.

“Why didn’t you let me know?” His voice cracking.

“I’m so sorry Glenn! But I did what I thought was best. You were young and hadn’t finished school. I wanted you to do what you had without any distraction. I didn’t want you to feel you had to give up anything to support us. And from what I see, I made the right choice.” Glenn stared at her, trying to find the words that will convey what he was feeling at this moment.

“How could you feel that, knowing me as you do. That I will feel alright with the fact, I had a daughter for the last three years and never had the opportunity to see her develop to this age. Or support her!“ Glenn try to stay calm, as not to frighten the child.

“Glenn we were alright. I took good care of us. My husband left us well off.” She informed him. Trying to reassure him, that they weren’t struggling. Glenn’s eyes narrowed.

It had been four years, since Sheila had seen him. And she remembered him as this young man trying to discover himself. But now, with the way he looked at her. She realize, that young man had went away that afternoon they were together. And the years had made him more of a man.

“Is that suppose to make me feel any better? Is that what you think its all about? Able to provide for her. What about the bonding thing or the nurturing of her father? What about looking up to me and me being there when you were pregnant? Or when you gave birth? How about when she need to be fed or changed? When she was sick? Did you not feel I would want to be apart of that, no matter what?” He spoke these words through gritted teeth and smiled from time to time at his daughter, so she wouldn’t get that Mommy and Daddy were arguing. His daughter looked at his mouth wondering what was wrong.

“I just didn’t want to burden you. I should have been more prepared. I didn’t know it would lead to what we did. I was the one in control of the situation and you were the child.” She said. Glenn tilted his head.

“Four years ago, you helped make me a man. Didn’t you think. It wasn’t only because we were intimate, that made me a man. But the fact that I had gained a whole new out look on life. I understood what being a man was all about. You would have known that if you had read my book and understood that!” Glenn continued to speak in a calm voice. The little girl was oblivious of the two, she was playing with her hands.

“I read the book and got it, that you got it!” She said, smiling.

“You know what today is?” Glenn looked at her. She looked back and nodded.

“Yes! Happy Birthday Glenn!” She glared at him.

“It’s his birthday Mommy?” The little child asked and looked from her mother to Glenn.

“Yes, Glenna! It is!” She answered her. Glenn’s eyes lit up, when he realized she had named her after him.

“Oooooh! Are we going to have a party for him?” She asked. Sheila looked at her daughter, stunned by her question and looked over to Glenn. He was so busy adoring his daughter, to get what she asked.

“I don’t know if he will be around to, Honey.“ She looked at him blankly. She knew she had made a big mistake, but didn’t know how to fix it.

“I would be very happy to party on my birthday with you two lovely ladies.” He stared at Sheila and caught her eyes. The love they had for each other had weather the test of time and events.

He knew now, his love for her had never wavered. If anything, he loved her even more. He understood, she was still thinking of him as this young boy who needed to grow up. But she didn’t realize, that what he went through and being with her, had changed him from that boy. To what she was looking at now.

“Okay! We’ll go get some ice cream and order a cake. How about that?“ Sheila said to her daughter, then looked at Glenn.

“Okay!” Glenna answered her mother.

“Oh wow! I almost forgot! I’m meeting Mrs. Rogers!” Glenn looked at his watch and found it was way pass the time she was suppose to meet him.

“You heard from my Auntie?“ Sheila looked surprised. Glenn looked at her.

“She sent me this telegram this morning, to meet her here.” He told her, as he searched for her.

“Really! That’s so strange. Because this is the time Glenna and I, usually come through the park daily. Evidently she knew this and wanted you to find us.” Sheila informed him. Glenn looked at her confused.

“Have you seen her lately?” He asked.

“No! I haven’t seen my Aunt since that day. I heard a woman came to the hospital, claiming to be my Aunt when I was in a coma. Then she came to see the baby.” Sheila deducted. Glenn went into deep thought.

“Why would she pick this time to have me come through here?‘ Glenn looked at Sheila!

“I guess she waited until you were finished with school and didn’t think I would ever tell you, is all I can figured!“ Sheila began to walk away. Glenn looked after her.

“So she isn’t coming is she?“ Glenn asked. Sheila looked aback at him.

“No Glenn! If she hasn’t shown up already, then she isn’t coming.“ Sheila felt her Aunt wanted Glenn to know about his daughter and set everything up.

“Do you think we’ll ever see her again?” Glenn really wanted to talk to her once again.

“I don’t know Glenn! It would be nice though.” She said, then started down the path out of the park, with Glenn at her side.Chapter Thirty-Four

Sheila drove by the bakery and ordered a cake, saying she would be back in an hour to pick it up. Then they went by and bought some ice cream on their way to the home Sheila and Glenna lived. They made plans for the birthday party. Mostly for Glenna’s enjoyment.

They came up to the nice home, on the outskirts of the city. It had a white fence around it and on a huge acre of land surrounded it. Sheila had sold her mansion she lived with chase and bought a smaller version of the mansion, to accommodate her daughter, herself and the servants. She didn’t want to let them go. Though she hired a new butler due to the demise of the first.

Glenn was very impress. She drove the car to the back of the house to the three car garage, parking just outside. Glenn gathered the cake, as Sheila scooped up a sleeping Glenna. She looked over to Glenn who was staring and smiling adoringly at them both. She returned the smiled.

Glenn followed Sheila into the house and sat the cake down on the table set in the center of the huge kitchen. He gave it a once over before heading off in the direction Sheila had gone with Glenna.

The maid came into the sitting room where they were, Sheila explained what was going on and left everything in her hands. She took Glenna up to bed, while Glenn made himself at home and was sat down in the parlor. Sheila joined him and headed for the bar to get something to drink.

“Would you like something?” She asked, looking up as she poured her drink.

“No! I haven’t touched anything, since that night!” He laughed. She smiled and came to sit across from him.

“It’s strange how one moment in our life, can define the rest of out lives. I want you to know, that I never meant to get pregnant. I wasn’t planning on us making love that day either. It’s just that..........” She started, then stopped. Glenn leaned in.

“Just that what, Sheila?” He stared at her. She looked at him, then down at her drink.

“You were hurting so bad. You thought wrong about yourself, because you couldn’t get into Josie! I had to prove, if you were with someone you cared about. It would be different. My Aunt was coming, but I stopped her.” She told him, then stood to her feet and began pace. Glenn watched her walk back and forth, curious to why she didn’t want Mrs. Rogers to come.

“But you stopped her! Why?” Glenn asked. She looked over to him and then took a gulp of her drink. Maybe she did know something was going to happen that day. Either with her Aunt or herself.

“I told her if she went, that you would have expected more than she would be able to give. I felt you two were getting way to close and didn’t realize it.” Then she looked at him.

“No, I take that back. You knew what you were feeling and if she had come, you two would have done what we wound up doing. But she wouldn’t have been able to give anymore than that.” She said to him. He looked at her for a moment.

“And what were you able to give, Sheila?” He asked, knowing she faired no better than Mrs. Rogers.

“I wasn’t expecting anything to develop between us. It happened.” She explained. Glenn stood to his feet.

“I don’t believe that Sheila!” He told her. She looked at him confused.

“What do you mean, you don’t believe it? It’s true! I didn’t plan what happened.” Sheila told him and went to pour another drink. Glenn watched her closely.

“I’m not that child that I was four years ago, Sheila. In case you hadn‘t noticed.” He said sternly. She went to bring her glass up to her lips, but paused when he said this.

“I understand a lot more now, than I did then. You didn’t want your Aunt there because you knew we would probably do what we did. But like you said, she wouldn’t have continued the relationship. You on the other hand, thought you were in control of what you were feeling.” He continued. Sheila took the drink and stared at him.

“You knew you were going to have to convince me the only way I could be convinced. And with what you were feeling, you wouldn’t be with someone if you didn’t care about them. No matter what the circumstances.” He looked at her, waiting for a response. Sheila took another drink. Yes, he was right! He wasn’t that young boy she made love to years ago. Now here he stood before her, all grown up and telling her things she had tried to denied for so many years.

“So be honest Sheila! You had feelings for me and it was you who you wanted to find me and not your Aunt. Because as you told me, you envied that it was she who I had kissed and not you.” He started towards her. She looked at him wildly.

“You don’t know what you’re talking about.” She poured herself another drink and walked form behind the bar, not wanting him to corner her. His eyes followed her. He was going to get the truth out tonight.

“You can deny it all you want. I know you wanted to be with me that day. To comfort me the best way you knew how. The only way you could. Yeah, Glenna was something unexpected, but still a blessing. I love you Sheila. It started sometime after you got there. That day I saw you in the diner with Ross and the kindness you showed me. But when we made love sealed it. My heart was yours. You couldn’t have touched me in such a way if you didn’t feel for me.” He said this more as a question than a statement. She took another sip, then turned to stare at him.

“Okay Glenn! You want honesty, let’s do it! There were more than one reason why I didn’t look you up. Yeah, one was your father’s threat. I didn’t want him hurting my baby. Another was, you were in school and didn’t need the responsibility of a child hanging on, you while you try to finish school.” She down what remained in her glass and headed for the bar. Glenn was counting the shots she had already had.

“But the main reason Glenn, was the ‘what if’ factor.” She was feeling the effects of the drinks. Glenn made a step towards her, confused.

“The ‘what if’ factor?” He repeated. She looked over towards him and nodded her head.

“Yep! The ‘what if’ factor. Like, what if that night none of us had come back. What would have happened between my Aunt and you?” Sheila’s words were beginning to slur. Glenn walked over to her.

“That’s enough Sheila! I want you sober, while we discuss this so called what if factor. And to answer your question. Yeah, maybe we would have done something. I don’t know.” He told her. She looked at him, shaking her head.

“Poor naive boy! My Aunt practically admitted to my Uncle, she wished she had done something with you and would have if no one had come back.” She informed him. Glenn stared at her speechless, then turned and walked away. He stood in silence for a few moments, thinking. Sheila looked at him and felt her heart break. The truth comes out.

Chapter Thirty-Five“See? That’s another reason I didn’t look you up! I saw how you and my Aunt were with each other. You gave her something my Uncle didn’t or wasn‘t capable. You filled that loneliness and gave her a reason to get up in the morning. You gave her life, where she would have been stuck in that garden and lonely.” Glenn kept his back to her, listening to all she was revealing about Mrs. Rogers. Sheila looked at him ,then poured her another drink, ignoring his command to not drink anymore. He turned in time to see her downed it.

“She would have been there for you that day if I hadn’t, Glenn. She was rushing to you when I told her you were gone. Her mind was already made up about my Uncle, so what did she have to lose?” She set the glass on the bar, as if deciding herself enough was enough.

“I think in my own way, I was a little jealous she had your love and affection. And I didn’t! I missed that with my David. He gave me all I needed. Chase filled that void, but not like David. He was so much like you.” She gazed into his eyes with such love and affection. Glenn’s heart fluttered. Then she turned away, not wanting this to stop. They needed to get this out in the open. Once and for all.

“With David it was all or Nothing at all! That’s you Glenn.” She looked back at him. He shifted form one foot to the other. He did say let the truth come out.

“I envied what you gave my Aunt. I told her if she went to you, expect to give nothing less than what you were going to give her. That’s when she decided it was best for me to go. She had no clue what I was feeling for you. Neither did I!“ She looked him straight in the face, assuring him she didn’t know it at the time. He slightly nodded his head acknowledging what she had said.

“I knew I was just a fill in, so I went to you not knowing that we were going to fall into each others arms. I didn‘t know you had any feelings for me, until that last moment. So I gambled that you would allow me in.” She turned away once again. Glenn wanted to go to her and take her in his arms, so badly. But he refrain himself. There will be time later for that. He hoped.

“When I found out I was pregnant, I had a DNA done with hair strands from a brush that belonged to Chase.” She walked over to him. He stared down at her.

“I need you to understand something. I loved Chase dearly. He was a good man and a good husband. I let him down by believing him capable of what was told to me. So what happened that night couldn’t be helped. I owed him that!“ Tears began to fill her eyes. Glenn just stood listening.

“That’s when I realized what we had, was gone. Not because of what I thought he did. But because of what I had done that afternoon. And he knew it! He told me he knew someone else was in the room with us that night. Because I was so distance.” The tears fell. Glenn tilted his head, understanding.

“When the results came back she wasn’t his. I knew then, you were her father. It made me more determined to walk away. Either you loved me or you didn’t. And I knew if my Aunt had been there that day, she would have been with you and not me.” She turned away from him and walked to the window, staring at the garden. Glenn walked over to her and gentle rested his hands on her shoulders.

“Yes Sheila! We probably would have been together that night, if no one had come back. I will never deny my feelings for your Aunt. But if she walked through that door right now. We both know, nothing would ever come of what we were feeling for each other. Whether we consummated it or not. But with you it was different.” He gently turned her around to face him. She stared into his eyes as the tears streamed down her cheeks.

“You gave me all of you that day, I know you did. Because you filled me up. I have dated and gone with a few over the last four years. But it didn’t last. Not because I doubt my sexuality, but because no one has been able to give me what you gave me that day.” She searched his eyes.

“That’s how you are! You only know how to give your all or nothing. Just like your David. Just like me! So if you want to just allow me to see my daughter, but don’t want to have anything to do with me. Do it because your love for me has gone. Not because of something that could have been, but didn’t. And most of all, wouldn’t make much difference anyway.” He stared into the beautiful green orbs, swimming in the pool of water.

“Huh?” She looked at him, hearing him, but not allowing it to register. She didn‘t want to get hurt anymore. Especially since she loved him so much.

“In others words. I love you Sheila. I’m old enough to know what I felt for Mrs. Rogers was puppy love and a deep affection. Because we both needed it. But the way you loved me, told me you were willing to give me all of you without reservations. And I wanted that too. So now, what are you going to do?” Glenn held her at arms length, staring into her eyes.

Chapter Thirty-Six

She was beginning to feel the effects of the drinks, now that she was calming down. The room swirled around her, as her legs started to buckle under her. But Glenn caught her before she fell to the ground.

He gathered her up in his arms and took her over to the sofa, gently laying her down. She looked up into his hazel eyes and beckoned for him to sit next to her. He did, taking her hand into his. She stared at him, amazed how he had transformed.

He was no longer that tall lanky kid she had seduced in the woods four years ago to date. He had filled out and in the right places. He was now a man and yet still remained that gentle sensitive kind person she had loved all these years. It was a plus for him.

“You touched me in such a way, those years ago on this day. I didn’t have to do much coaching you that day. After the first time around, you knew exactly how to please a lady. And I couldn’t and haven’t been able to get you out of my mind and heart or the feel of you off my body.” She revealed to him. He felt his face grow warm from blushing.

“You gave me something I lost! I came back to tell you that, but you know what happened. I love you so much, Glenn! I always will.” She told him, as he eyes filled with tears. He stared into those moisten eyes for a second, then pulled her to him.

“And you know what you gave me. If you hadn’t came after me, I know I would have been dead. If not for what I thought I was mistakenly or for the pressures that were to great for me to endure. I owe you my life. I want to spend the rest of it loving you.“ He tilted her head back and staring into those green orbs. Then leaned in and brushed his lips against her.

She allowed a small moan to escape from her, feeling a sensation flow through her. He took her bottom lip between his own and gently began to suck on them. He ran his tongue over her top lip, causing her body to slightly shutter. He planted a small peck at the corner of her mouth. Then moving over her cheek and lightly kissing it. Moving upwards, until he came to her ear, he whispered something in it that made her mouth form into an ‘O’.

“Oh my, Glenn!“ She whispered. She grasp his huge strong arms in her hands. Nothing had changed and yet everything had.

The roles had reversed. This was no longer, that the boy she knew four years ago that cried out for help and who she taught some things in that secret place in the woods. This was a man, holding her in his arms. His one had at the small of her back, while the other cradled her head. He lifted her and pulled her onto his lap. She stared into his eyes like an innocent little girl.

How a few years can change things?

If he had touched her then, surly now he was going to touch her beyond her imagination. The boy was no longer a boy. He had come fully into manhood and he was going to show her how much. For the first time in a long time, she relaxed, feeling protected.

She pulled her head back to look into his eyes once again. What she saw, made her let out a small whimper in anticipation. His eyes narrowed with desire for her and then he kissed her. He definitely had changed. The kiss was more matured and that made it more the arousing. She surrendered completely to him.

His kiss deepened, long and hard. She clung to him with all she had in her, excepting all that he wanted to express to her. Finally he pulled back and gazed into her eyes. He wanted her again, if only for one night.

“Happy Birthday, Glenn!“ She smiled at him, as an answer to the unspoken question.

He stood to his feet, with her still in his arms and carried her up the stairs. She pointed out the direction to the room, where they once again would share something they thought they had lost four years ago.

She placed her hand on the knob of the door, turning it. He entered the room with her in his arms and moved over to the bed, placing her there. She reached up for him, not wanting to waste another second or fearful this was only a dream.

She didn’t have to ask twice, as he came to lie beside her and took her into his arms once again. Happy she was there next to him one more time. Another first would come to pass in this room.

This will be the first time a man shared this room and bed with her. No other man had ever been able to live up to the young boy, she had made mad passionate love to on his birthday four years ago and brought into manhood.

Out side a beautiful raven head woman, sat in a taxi in front of the home where two people she had come to love dearly. She smiled pleased at the length they had come to stay in the house. She knew then, everything was well.

It made her happy to know, she was able to bring these two together again. They were so much alike. Ridiculed because they dare to be different. With parents that didn’t try to protect them and nearly destroyed be her ex husband. He couldn’t deal with, a young boy who wasn’t afraid to express his sensitive side.

Maybe one day, she would be able to come to them and be the family she would love to be. And to be able to openly converse with the pretty little niece, she has had the privilege to hold so many conversations. But now wasn’t the time. They’ll have plenty of time in the near future.

“You may go now driver. Everything is well with the world now.” She said smiling, as sat back in her seat. Looking straight ahead, as the car started down the street and distanced itself, from the family she will come back to another day.

The End