Katie's Wind

Thank You.

To the DW Team that polished my manuscript:

Katie-Editor

Elle J Rossi-Cover Designer

Matt-Formatter and Tech support

Lisa-Author Photographer

And my spiritual guides. I trust the journey of this book. Win, lose or draw, it was worth the trip.

Prologue

Does love always come as it should?

Or does it meet barriers that force it to change direction...

like the wind?

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The woman in the hospital bed blinks her eyes, forcing them to open. Fighting her way out of the fog of sleep and meds, she focuses on the patterns in the ceiling. The light fall breeze brushing her cheek reminds her of a lover’s longing touch. The sunbeams dance across the room as the first lights of dawn filter softly though her window.

She knows this is the day.

Using all of her strength, she struggles to sit up. The quiet of the early morning bids her to finish her task. Letting her head fall back on the pillows, visions of the young man that once completed her life fill her thoughts. For once she is not stingy with the memories, allowing them to stream over her tenderly. She accepts all the feelings of joy, happiness and love that filled her life for a short time.

Then fate changed the direction. Her eyes mist...no she cannot cry, she does not have the time. With great effort she straightens up to pull her laptop toward her on the bed tray. With only a few hours left to complete her task, she inserts a flash drive. The deep, passionate determination in her makes her fingers fly over the keyboard, typing quickly.

***

Katie Collins grips the steering wheel...

CHAPTER One

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...with white knuckle intensity. Pressing her lips together, she enters the unfamiliar parking area of Sterling High. Her stomach rolls as she searches for a parking space, driving slowly around the half full lot.

Having always been a classroom teacher in the past, this is her first day at a new position as head librarian. Twenty-some odd years of the same old same old, she surprised everyone, even herself when on a whim she picked this new route.

Her reason? She knew she needed a change, something out of her ordinary. A prim and proper librarian seemed to fit the bill. Brushing her short, sandy brown hair from her eyes, she curls and uncurls her fingers.

Katie had worked to keep her life peaceful, but when her world crashed, literally, she knew the need to move a little out of the ordinary seemed to be the ticket. Nothing big, just something to make life feel real again.

After accepting the feeling that life is whizzing by, leaving her drowning in everyday routines, she took the drastic change. Having been a classroom teacher in the past, now her students consisted of the entire student body. Four grades, several hundred kids, this took her to a new and exciting mind set.

Finding an empty space, she pulls the car in so she can calm her shaking hands and pounding heart. Sitting for a moment to take a pause against the panic rising up in her throat, her memories overtake her. The day that changed her life comes crashing back.

***

Deep into reading a book, the ringing of the doorbell startles Katie. While waiting for her husband Shelton to return from one of his many business trips, she had lost track of time. The day had turned to night. Darkness covered the windows. Wondering who would be at her door as she walks towards it, her faithful dog walks beside her, emitting a low growl. Two large, manly shadows project on the stained-glass panel. Taught to be cautious, she opens the door only slightly.

Her eyes widen as she sees two solemn policeman. Yes? Her voice traps in her throat, a frightening sensation grabs her stomach.

Mrs. Collins? Mrs. Shelton Collins?

Opening the door wider, she grips the knob for support.

This is not going to be good.

Yes.

The older one looks at her with sympathetic eyes. I’m sorry to tell you this, but there’s been an accident...

Her legs buckle, she clenches the door harder.

...your husband, ma’am.

Alive? Her breath feels cut off.

As far as we know. He’s at Crestview hospital.

What do I do? Can I drive? Where are my keys?

Looking behind her, she doesn’t see her keys. Her purse is on the hall table.

They must be in there.

The dog’s soft fur brushes against her leg. Her hand reaches down touching his head.

The same voice flitters through the fog of confusion surrounding her. We can take you there.

You can? Will? Without thinking she grabs her purse from the table, clutching it tight to her chest as if it could protect her from the fearsome event unfolding. The dog sits back, she barely notices as she shuts the door behind her.

Walking between the two officers she focuses on putting one foot in front of another. Looking around she sees her neighbors watching. She wants to shout and wave that everything is okay, but she can’t. She doesn’t know if it’s going to be all right yet. One of the officers holds the back door of the squad car for her. Sliding in, she bows her head and starts praying.

With the sirens blaring, they speed through the busy streets of the city. Weaving in and out of traffic, it still seems like it taking forever to get there. Her heartbeat is racing, ready to explode out of her chest.

A bright sign displaying the red letters EMERGENCY whizzes by. The car jerks to a stop. The car door opens, the hand of one of the officers takes her arm. She gives him a weak smile, lets him lead her to the sliding doors. As they open, she sees her brother-in-law, Marco, coming towards her. A chill slams her. The look on his face says it all. Releasing the comfort of the policeman’s hand, she drops her purse and grasps her fingers in front of her mouth. A cry follows her as the floor meets her body. Then she realizes, it is her that is screaming.

***

It was sudden and she had reeled from the shock of it, mourned and now felt she should get on with her life. Katie drew all of the strength she could from family and friends. But in the end she is alone for the first time since she showed up for college. Two years is long enough to escape from life.

So you are on your own.

It is hard not having a partner. But her struggle shows her a strength she didn’t know she had.

Leaning her forehead on the steering wheel, she takes one last deep breath. Looking forward to working with kids again, she feels she is going in the right direction to get her priorities in order.

Her muscles tighten with readiness. Griping the handle, she pushes the door open. On unsteady legs she steps out of the protection of her car. Smoothing down her skirt, she shrugs her shoulders to adjust her jacket. The proper, dark blue suit she picked out to wear today didn’t seem to fit her new role. Hanging in her closet are new bright colored outfits that she hopes make her more kid-friendly. One stride at a time, she walks to the other side, and as she opens the door, her eyes widen.

Why did I bring all this stuff?

Starting to gather up a bag of books, she grabs another bag full of books and her large purse, and hikes up her load. The weight slows her down, but she marches to the large, offset building that houses the school library.

Juggling her load as she unlocks the door, the weight is becoming heavier. Bending over, waiting for something to fall, the straps cut into her shoulder. Making it to the desk, she drops everything on top of it.

Damn, next time make two trips.

Surveying her new domain, she sees books, many books, computers, tables and dust. A little dull, needs some pizzazz, but in time. First, she wants to get the feel for the kids. Having only three days to prepare for all the students, she feels the pressure of the many upcoming meetings, collaborations and groups, and the first one starts in forty-five minutes.

You ready for all of this? A familiar female voice sounds behind her.

Whirling around, she smiles at her best friend, Rebecca. Shaking her head, she reaches out. I hope so. She hugs her college roommate.

The smell of the soft, flaming red, ridiculously curly hair took Katie back to days long ago. At college Rebecca’s high spirit enhanced Katie’s quiet, modest personality. They both majored in education. In college the world opened up for Katie. The liberty and frankness of college life woke up Katie’s fun side. After meeting their future mates at a frat party in their third year, the foursome traveled together. Life was good.

Rebecca and Katie pick the same school district, the same year, the same school. Rebecca first made the change to Sterling High causing them to separate professionally, but not socially. They always stay in touch, seeing each other weekly. Sharing many years of friendships, they always have each other’s backs. Rebecca pulls Katie through the death of her husband, while Katie helps Rebecca deal with the death of her mother.

So you’re going to change the world one child at a time. Rebecca’s tone holds the edge of a tease. Her hazel eyes taunt Katie, as Rebecca always does.

No. Katie wrinkles her nose. All I’m changing is the course of my life. I hope I don’t regret it. Shaking her head, she frowns.

Why the hesitation, the fear? You have always been willing to make changes, to give things a chance. Her dear friend’s voice betrays her concern.

Sitting on the lip of the desk, Katie looks up, sure that the uncertainty she feels is all over her face. Things change and you have no control over them sometimes. Sometimes you make the wrong decision, turn the wrong corner, and go down the wrong street...

And sometimes shit just happens, Rebecca finishes for her. Not everything leads to disaster.

Closing her eyes, Katie knows this is right to push her comfort zone.

I have lived on autopilot since Shelton died. I’ve been too afraid to take hold of the wheel.

Katie and Rebecca stroll towards the door. Time to go back out into the world again. Her days of hiding behind her sorrow are over.

Rebecca’s joyful voice lifts Katie’s spirits. Come we have meetings to go to, people to meet, inspirations to achieve.

***

Weary by lunchtime, she walks slowly with Rebecca to a nearby deli. Entering the favorite spot for the staff to eat, several stop to welcome her. Some are former co-workers, lost-touch-with friends and new acquaintances. Their congeniality confirms her acceptance of her decision. Some knew her story, some did not. It didn’t matter. What matters is that they all had one job to do: teach children.

Heading back to the library, Katie breathes in deeply the hint of fall air, which still carries the warmth of summer. She and Rebecca separate on the sidewalk, each going to their own part of the school. Katie walks alone to the big building she will call her work home for the next few months, maybe years. The feeling wraps itself around her, comforts her. Safe and secure always feels good to Katie.

Reconnecting to a purpose sends a feeling of sereneness over her. It’s been a while since she felt things would be okay.

When your world comes crashing down around you, it takes a while to take chances again.

***

Wow! You have really livened up this place. Rebecca’s voice echoes across the large empty room.

In jeans, Katie walks towards her, wiping the sweat from her forehead. You like?

Rebecca gives the once over. Lookin’ good, Ms. Librarian.

Katie shoves her hands into her back pockets. I know this is high school, I tried to keep it upmarket.

The artwork, some plants and posters were chosen with care. The bright colors and positive messages did much to shine up the dreary room. Kate so hopes it sends out an inviting ambiance. The library is blessed with large, high windows so the seasons will be the backdrop.

Rebecca lays her arm on Katie’s shoulder. Nice work for two days. She leans her head against Katie’s. So you’re feeling good about this?

Katie nods. I do. I think this is the shot in the arm I needed.

Well, good. But now it’s time to go home. The children will arrive early tomorrow morning. Rebecca waits as Katie gathers up her bag.

As they walk out the door, Katie turns to take one last look. Flipping off the lights, she smiles.

Good job. Change is good.

But another change is coming like the wind, strong and directional.

***

Good thing Katie arrives early the first day the students have school. Walking up the walkway to her library, she sees more kids than she expected hanging around the door. Early kids, needing somewhere to go before the first bell.

Her long, flowing, colorful skirt rustles as she wedges her way through. While the suit seemed good for her first day, today she wanted to appear less stiff, wearing an oversized shirt and comfortable shoes.

The students part like the Red Sea as she unlocks the door. No one speaks. She tries to give them a welcome smile, but their faces stay still, like stone.

Shrugging she holds the door open as they filter in. Going to her desk, she notices some of them checking out the changes she made.

It’s a go girl!

As busy as the day starts, it stays that way until the last bell. While observing the students coming in and out, she can’t seem to catch their names. In the classroom there were seating charts and name tags on the desk. Here they just wander in and out. Some never speak to her.

Looking around, she frowns.

I miss the closeness of knowing each student.

The sharp ring of the last bell startles her.

It’s the end of the day already?

As several students drift in to work on the computers, Katie starts her clean up duties. She notices that there are not many books to shelve, and hopes there will be more as the school year gets into full swing. Carry a light load of books, she checks out the kids working.

One boy spikes her interest instantly, a Mexican about the age of her nephew, Lucas. Entering the library, he quietly takes a seat at one of the tables. Katie stops to watch him. He gets straight to work, not bothering anyone. After about an hour, he is the only one left in the library. His quiet, soft manner draws her to him.

Walking over to him, she introduces herself. Hi, I’m Ms. Collins.

Slyly he speaks low. My name is Carlos. Is it all right if I wait in the library for my brother?

Sure, does he go to school here?

No, he is older. This is my first year in high school, so he wants me to wait for him so we can go home together. His eyes pleaded for her to understand.

Kate pats his shoulder. What a good brother! Most brothers don’t want to bother with a little brother.

Carlos relaxes a little. He has always made sure I am okay since our father died.

Oh, I’m sorry. It is hard growing up without a father. You’re lucky you have such a responsible brother. Katie feels compassion for this boy.

Yeah, he’s okay. Carlos shrugs.

Giving him a soft pat, she assures him. Stay as long as you want. Let me know if you need anything.

He nods and turns back to his books.

Not minding that he hangs around, she is curious to meet the reliable ‘big brother’.

***

With wide steps, Enrique Alvarza crosses the college campus to his car. Older in his mind than his twenty-four years, he looks forward to finishing his master’s degree program in the spring. He is ready for the plans he imagined for most of his life to proceed. Always seeing life as a journey, he works with the surprises, the death of his father being the biggest surprise of all. The next step is a job, then in a few years, marriage and family. Confident in his abilities with finances, he expects to work for one of the top companies in the city.

Reaching his black jeep, he throws his books in the back seat, in a hurry to be on his way to the high school to pick up Carlos.

Hey, Enrique, a female voice calls out behind him.

Turning, he forces a smile as one of the many perky college girls in his classes head toward him. Leaning against his car, he chuckles to himself as her gaze move down his body, then up to his eyes.

Yes? He really has little patience with silly girls.

Going out this weekend? She is bold in her approach.

It’s only Monday, I don’t know what my plans are yet. Not liking to be cornered he is careful about making commitments too soon.

Well, a group of us are going to the Pit Stop. We would love for you to join us. She is giving it her best shot.

He smiles. I’ll let you know. Turning to get in his car, he is aware of her hesitation.

With disappointment in her tone, she coos, Hope to see you. Bye.

He laughs quietly, amused at her tone. Yeah, bye.

Another voice yells his name. This time it is a fellow male student, Bud. Leaving early? The two have several classes together.

Enrique turns towards Bud. Going to pick up Carlos.

Hey, are you applying for jobs yet? Bud leans on the side of the jeep.

Enrique shrugs and looks around. Kind of. I’m looking into internships.

Any hits?

Shaking his head, Enrique explains, Not exactly, but I haven’t been real determined yet.

Bud steps away. Okay, let me know if you find anything.

Will do.

After leaving the parking lot, he drives down familiar streets, following a route he knows like the back of his hand. Having never been good with changes he could not do anything about, he likes being where he can foresee the outcome. He is smart enough to realize that unexpected things happen and he tries to be prepared.

He is heading for an interruption he had not considered: the entrance of a woman into his life that will make him question the course he thought was clearly established.

***

The library of his old high school looms ahead of Enrique as he walks up the sidewalk. Remembering his days here, the fonder memories stand out.

Heaving open the heavy doors, he stands just inside, allowing his eyes to adjust. He looks across the large room for his brother. Spotting him at a computer, he starts toward him when suddenly a stylish looking woman approaches Carlos. Stopping mid-stride, he sucks in a quick breath, and then continues slowly towards them. Watching her body movements, he notices she has the body of a real woman, not too thin with curves in all the right places. Her long multicolored blue shirt and big white shirt makes him think of a sun-drenched desert, bright and hot.

She is standing with her arms crossed, talking to Carlos. She leans down, clearly smiling, speaks to him. They high five. Enrique slows his pace, intrigued by her elegance, and realizes she carries an air of poise. As he comes up behind them, they turn at the same time.

Enrique! Carlos grins at his brother. This is my brother Enrique, he tells the woman.

The woman turns to greet Carolos’s brother with a smile, and Enrique notices how her face reveals her feelings. Her smile freezes, and her posture does a sudden stiffening at coming face to face with him. Her eyes widen as she runs her hand tensely through her slightly out of control hair. He has the urge to reach up and brush it away from her face.

I’m Ms. Collins, the librarian. So I finally get to meet the elusive Enrique. She sounds professional, hiding embarrassment.

She puts out her hand, and a jolt goes through his body when he touches her. Shocked, he almost pulls back. Instead he tightens his grip. If he let go, he would lose the sensation of touching her. Looking straight into ocean blue eyes that sparkle with sincerity and amusement, he angles his head to one side.

Ms. Collins. He has a tease in his voice and a fixed look.

He sees in her face he has flustered her. She lets go first.

Quickly she turns back to Carlos. Good job, today. You’ll beat me one of these days.

With short brisk steps she heads for the confines of the bookcases. Enrique studies her as she walks away, leaving in her trail the scent of jasmine.

What was that all about? he asks Carlos, not taking his eyes off the librarian.

We were playing a trivia game. It helps with my tests. Why are you early? Carlos gathers up his books.

As the woman moves farther away from them, Enrique follows her with his eyes. Captivated, he grins at how her movements stir him.

Got finished early, Enrique half answers.

Starting for the door, Carlos turns around and looks for Enrique. Enrique has not moved. Carlos walks back. Enrique?

No answer. Carlos smacks him on the arm. Enrique!

Turning around and rubbing his arm, he snaps, What?

Where are you?

Right here, what’s your problem? Let’s go. I don’t have all day.

***

Coming out from behind the bookshelves, Katie folds her arms across her chest. Watching the brothers go out the door bickering with each other, she leans back and sighs. Enrique’s manner fascinates her, the way he moves with the grace of a panther. Her mind went back to the moment she came face to face with the gorgeous young man standing in front of her. How she lost herself for just a moment in the depthless, chocolate eyes that revealed just a touch of mischief. The shock wave pulsing though her body when they touched puzzle her. When she felt the heat move up her cheeks, she felt confused, and she let go, moving away.

Why would I react that way?

Katie accepts the fact she lost the lifetime, grow old together mate. Some of her friends want her to meet other men, but Katie is not the least bit interested. But she doesn’t like being the third or fifth wheel either.

But feelings this young man stir up in her? She almost feels like some of the high school girls she is with day after day.

Keeping her eyes on the black jeep as it leaves the parking lot, she gets a quick glimpse of Enrique and her stomach flutters.

***

Once in the car Enrique asks his burning question. Who is that woman?

We already covered this. Ms. Collins. Carlos looks at his book.

I got that! Enrique is losing his patience.

She’s the librarian. What part of that are you not getting?

Yeah? I went to this high school, I never saw her. What happened to old Miss Crocker? Enrique waved his hands in the air.

Carlos shrugged. Don’t know. This is my first year, here. He looks over at his brother. I think she died.

Enrique is surprised. Really? So how long has Ms. Collins been here?

I think she’s new this year. Carlos shakes his head.

Obviously. I would have noticed her if she had been there when I was a student.

***

Days later, sitting at Katie’s desk in the library Rebecca and Katie laugh over the stupid e-mails coming through their spam. The only one left in the library is Carlos, trying to work quietly at the computer. When they laugh too loud, he turns and glares at them. Saying, Sorry, they try to keep it down.

So are you feeling better about taking this job? Rebecca leans in to whisper.

Anything is better than auto pilot. Katie folds her arm across her chest.

Look, I know Shelton’s death was unexpected, but...

...but what? Katie snaps. Having your world crash down isn’t unexpected. It’s unimaginable!

Katie, things just happen, Rebecca tries to console her friend.

Katie leans back and takes a deep breath. I know. It’s just that I haven’t been on my own since I showed up for college twenty-five years ago.

Aren’t you lonely?

Sometimes, but I am adjusting... Katie stops midsentence as Enrique enters the library. Katie notices how well dressed he is in a black shirt with gold pinstripes. His black jeans are a perfect fit, not too tight, not too loose, displaying a nice ass. Without looking at anyone, he goes over to Carlos.

Ready? His back is to the women, unaware they are ogling him.

Carlos looks up. Sure give me a minute.

Take your time, no hurry. Moving to the other side of Carlos, his shirt is unbuttoned enough to show his caramel colored chest, and a gold medallion sparkles against his skin.

Looking up at Katie and Rebecca, he acknowledges them. Ladies.

Sitting there rudely staring at this handsome young man, Katie forgets to breathe. Rebecca let her breath out slowly and straightens up. Katie heaves a sigh, knowing if she stands, she will fall. They both nod to Enrique.

Enrique, Katie splutters in a voice just above a whisper, without taking her eyes off him. Rebecca, this is Enrique, Carlos’ brother.

After walking leisurely over to them, Enrique shakes Rebecca’s hand.

Pleasure.

Ms. Collins. He turns to Katie and picks up her left hand, letting his thumb travel down her empty ring finger.

Is it Senora or Senorita? His eyes sparkle.

I don’t know, Katie answers, getting lost in his eyes.

A flirty smile cross his lips. Are you married?

No, I’m deceased... I mean my husband is deceased...I don’t have a husband. Katie frowns and shakes her head.

Rebecca butts in. So you’re a Senorita.

But I thought once a Senoia, always a Senoia. Katie turns to Rebecca.

Enrique straightens up and releases Katie’s hand. Actually you are right, Senoia.

As Carlos comes up, Enrique put his arm around his brother’s shoulder. Ladies. He nods, turns walks out.

Rebecca walks out from behind the desk. What was that? Fanning her face with her hand, her expression speaking volumes.

Katie stands and comes up behind her friend. Trying hard to speak without a quiver in her voice, she stutters, En...Enrique.

I know that. Who is he? Rebecca’s voice is sharp, demanding.

Carlos’ older brother. Katie plays with her, enjoying the reaction she is getting.

I got that part. Is he a student? Rebecca is impatient with the less than revealing answers.

No, I believe he’s in college. He was a student here, I think. Katie smiles as she watches him move across the parking lot.

I’ve never seen him. Rebecca shoots a sharp look at Katie.

Really? Katie folds her arms, enjoying the view.

Rebecca switches her weight. You’d think I would have noticed him.

Walking back to the desk, Katie tosses over her shoulder to Rebecca, You must be getting old if you missed that one. She is chuckling to herself.

Rebecca finally stops staring at the parking lot. Come on let’s go to dinner. While fanning herself with her hand, she adds, I need something tall and cool to drink.

Taking one last glance as the black jeep drives out of the parking lot, Katie gathers her stuff to leave with Rebecca.

Chapter two

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Leaving fall behind, a harsh, deep cold winter approaches, with the holidays just a couple of months away. A frosty wind whips around the buildings where Enrique stands talking to a group of older Mexican men sitting in front of El Rancho Restaurant. Leaning against the wall, his hands in the pockets of his coat, he laughs with the group. A silver and black SUV pulls into the small parking lot, and Enrique glances up. Not recognizing the car, his eyes follow it as it edges into a parking spot. When the driver comes into view, he pushes off from the wall.

Ms. Collins.

His pulse increases. His face breaks into a smile.

Straightening up, he watches her emerge from the car. Her long, slender legs in jeans and boots step out. Standing with both feet flat on the ground, she looks around at the area with a small frown on her face.

Braving the bitter wind, he walks over to her. You look lost. Can I help?

Turning, her surprise to see him shows in her uncertain stare. Your brother...Carlos...

He finds her lack of words endearing.

...is to meet me. She regains her composure, straightens up. I’m shopping for a Christmas present, She blurts, waving her hand in the air.

As she talks, Enrique’s eyes go to the person getting out of the other side of the car. His eyes narrow as a handsome young boy about Carlos’s age walks around the car. Stopping by Ms. Collins, he looks inquisitively at Enrique.

She pats the young man’s arm. Enrique, this is my nephew, Lucas.

Your nephew? For some reason, he feels relief.

Lucas holds out his hand. Nice to meet you.

Enrique returns the handshake and nods.

Hey, Lady! Carlos’ yell can be heard across the parking lot. You made it!

Rushing up to them, he slaps Enrique. Hey, brother. You’re here too, great!

Enrique stands behind Katie, the wind hitting his back with a strong force, as she introduces Carlos to Lucas. The boys start talking to each other immediately. Walking off, they leave the librarian and Enrique standing facing each other.

He laughs. We have been left.

Katie looks up at him. Her cheeks are turning red from the coldness. So it seems.

In a bold move, he takes her hand. Her fingers close softly over his. Following Carlos and Lucas, he leads her towards a general type store.

Once inside, she lets go of his hand and walks around. The store houses an array of clothing. Bright colors bend