Kingman—1971: Part Ii: the Boogeyman

© Copyright 2010, 2011 Gary Reeves.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the written prior permission of the author.

Author Credits: Kingman - 1971 Part I: Jamaica

Printed in the United States of America.

isbn: 978-1-4269-5577-8 (sc)

isbn: 978-1-4269-5578-5 (hc)

isbn: 978-1-4269-5579-2 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2011900668

Trafford rev. 01/21/2011

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Contents

THE BOOGEYMAN

JENNIFER

SKETCH ARTIST

COMPETITION

ANGELS

A QUESTION OF MORALS

CASE NUMBER 107308

JULIE

BIG SISTERS

LITTLE GIRL LOST

FIRST HOME

THE NEW SHOES

BLAINE STEWART’S LETTER

KAREN

A MOTHERS HUGS

AMY APPLETON

STAR OF THE MORNING DEW

TOM WHITE

SISTERS

HOPE

TEMPERS

MAPS

AMANDA ANN APPLETON

GOD PARENTS

A MATTER OF THE HEART

BREAKING THE ICE

FIRST RIDE

PRINCE AND SHANA

TO THE POINT

MENTORS

DISTANCES

DIAPERS

RUMORS

THE TRUTH

AFTERMATH

THE LEAKY WATER PUMP

PIGS IN A BLANKET

DECOMPRESSION

JOY

CONFUSION

DOWN TIME

A QUIET MOMENT

THE REHEARSAL

TWO FATHERS

ABUSERS

PAUL PORTER

THE WEDDING

THE WEDDING PRESENT

LOVES

RUNNING DOWN A MUSTANG

AN AUNTS ADVICE

THE ESCAPE

KINGMAN HOUSE

THUNDERSTORMS

Chapter One

THE BOOGEYMAN

Sam watched from Brent’s room while Anna and Jamaica walked toward the stables then turned his head to watch Doc remove a stitch from Brent’s side. Elaine busily prepared a large syringe of antibiotics, before injecting it into the I.V. Sweat immediately began pouring from Brent’s body.

Little sting. Doc warned Brent, as he cleaned the area of the large wound in the young mans side.

It makes me want to pee. Brent complained, When can I take a shower?

I hope it’s soon. Doc replied, You can probably take a bath in a few days.

Shower Doc. Brent argued, I want a shower.

Hold still. Doc ordered, You wiggle worse now than you did when you were 6. You’ll be too weak to stand in a shower.

Okay. Brent acknowledged and tried to lie still, This stuff you guys are giving me makes me sweat. I feel like crap.

Talk to Phil, or complain to Brenda. Doc retorted, But if you want to get married on Sunday, I advise you do what we tell you and let us be the doctors.

What are you doing here, Dad? Brent yawned, Am I that sick?

You’re pretty sick. Sam replied trying to swallow the lump in his throat.

I hate this crap. Brent complained, It makes me so damned tired. I just woke up a few minutes ago.

You’re home, Brent. You don’t have to fight the medicine. Sam told him softly, Just go with it and get some rest.

Is Jake okay? Brent worried, How can I protect Jake?

The medicine’s made him just a little irritable Sam. Elaine told him while preparing another syringe.

Jake’s worried about you. Sam told him, Mom took her for a walk. I give you my word I’ll make sure she’s protected and taken good care of. Kuba’s with her and your mother right now.

What the hell am I doing to her Dad? Brent asked, I feel like I’m saddling her with an invalid. Maybe I should call the wedding off.

Maybe you should, Sam agreed, If that’s what you really want to do.

I don’t want to do that. Brent sighed, I love her.

I know. Sam replied.

I just worry I’m not good enough for her. Brent confessed, What if this kind of thing keeps happening? What if I get crazy and tell her stupid things? What if I hurt her? I wouldn’t ever do a thing like that on purpose, but …

I know what you mean. Sam assured him and wiped the sweat from his face and neck while saying, Sometimes we say things we don’t mean. It’s all part of it. They don’t just see us when we’re at our best. If we’re lucky enough to have someone like your mother or Jake, they remind us we’re not the big shots we think we are. They married us for who we are, not what the world thinks. I guess they see something in us no one else does, including ourselves. I’m awfully glad your Mom’s around to remind me I’m not Big Sam Kingman. I’m just Sam to her; the guy she loves and cares for, especially when this kind of thing happens. Jake’s that kind too. They’re rare gems. I think the hardest thing I ever had to accept was that your mother’s a lot stronger than I am. I don’t say it a lot; but it’s true.

Excuse me, Sam. Brenda said politely and looked Brent over carefully before telling him, We’re going to put you to sleep for a little while sweet prince.

You’re awfully pretty, Aunt Brenda. Brent sighed, as she pushed the contents of a syringe into his arm, Do you want to marry me?

The answer’s the same as it was when you were 4. Brenda replied with a warm smile while taking his pulse, I’m already taken. Besides, she’s a lot younger and prettier than I am.

Yeah! Brent exclaimed, trying to keep his eyes open, She means everything to me you know?

Yes I do. Brenda answered while checking the area where the needle penetrated his arm.

He soon turned his head to the side and closed his eyes while saying, Don’t let the boogeyman get me, Daddy.

I won’t. Sam said and patted his hand.

He’s a little loaded, Sam. Brenda told him, He should sleep for several hours. He’s pretty sick.

Shouldn’t we have him in the hospital? Sam worried.

Yes, we should. Brenda replied, But I don’t want anyone to know what we’re treating him with. Right now he needs her a lot more than a hospital. So I guess that leaves it up to us. You were right, he was involved in some really classified work after his first year. Phil should have the details when he gets back. He just called.

Is Jake in danger? Sam asked with concern.

I don’t think so. Brenda replied, He was pretty crafty about the way he talked about things. They had their own little language, written and oral, for communicating personal things? It took me a pretty good while to figure it all out. They’d been communicating that way for a long time before he left. I believe it’s part of the stuff she hasn’t figured out that he wrote. You can thank the kicks to the side of her head for that.

Love finds a way. Sam shrugged.

Love finds a way. Brenda agreed with a smile and admonished, before leaving the room, Keep the boogeyman away from him, Sam; he’s a good boy.

Chapter Two

JENNIFER

Sam walked over to the filing cabinet and opened the top drawer. He was surprised to find it full of 9 by 12 pads filled with sketches, all neatly arranged by month and year dating back to the time Brent was only 7 years old. He had always thought Jennifer a source of irritation to Brent, but quickly learned she was more a source of fascination. The style in the early pictures was clearly similar to both Sam and Anna’s, but by the time he was 13 he had developed a style of his own that somehow made the images come to life. It had a depth evoking feeling and expressing emotion. Once he developed his own style, he redid several of the first drawings and began exploring his memories.

Jamaica seemed to be incidental in earlier drawings of Jennifer, Anna, Carol and Alicia. Sam spotted a pad with ‘Sadness’ written on the cover in bold block letters, took it out and opened it. The very first picture showed Carol and Ken’s agony over the loss of their daughters, so well, it took his breath away. A little note was scribbled in the corner he had a hard time reading through the tears in his eyes. The next several pages were devoted to the tiny children. The final drawing showed Ken and Carol holding each other while two little angels looked down on them from a cloud. He had drawn the picture in June 1963. It finally occurred to him what the note had said, ‘I just want to see them happy again.’

Sam had always thought Brent was too young to understand the depth of the pain of those times, but quickly learned it had a profound effect on him. Another picture showed Anna taking care of Sam when he came down with pneumonia a few months after he had gotten home from Korea. Brent managed to show her exhaustion and Sam’s pain. A frightened little boy sat on the foot of the bed obviously wondering if his Dad were going to die and whether or not he had caused him to get sick. Remembering the pain of the ordeal, Sam rubbed his side where the most pain had been. There were other drawings in the pad; scenes of sorrow and confusion, often evoking a myriad of feelings and emotions. The title had been correct, ‘Sadness.’

The sketches you’re looking for are in the bottom drawer. Jennifer suddenly said from behind him as she popped her gum, Most of these are only so-so. They’re good but not as good as the ones in the bottom drawer. The best ones are in the closet. I missed him while he was gone, so I came in here and organized everything, like a nosey little sister. I learned a lot.

What kind of things did you learn? Sam asked softly.

Oh! Like how he always looked out for me even if it made me mad. Jennifer told him with a gleam in her eyes, How he kept me from making some pretty serious mistakes. Of course, I didn’t realize how much I meant to him until I looked at the pictures. There are even several of me nursing when I was a baby. There’s even one of me falling off a horse the first time Aunt Carol let me put a saddle on by myself. Aunt Carol had to stop him from shooting that Appaloosa. He was so mad that I got hurt.

Didn’t he teach you to dance? Sam asked smiling.

And escorted me to my first one. Jennifer giggled with delight, He beat up Terry Clarkson for getting fresh with me. Then he taught me marshal arts because he knew he wouldn’t be around to defend my honor all the time. Did you know most boys are still overly respectful of me; except for Tony Dickerson. The guy is just stupid.

Stupid, huh? Sam asked smiling.

Really dumb; don’t even get me started on him. Jennifer replied and opened the bottom filing cabinet drawer, Jamaica and I have been friends every since she moved here, but I have to tell you that when I saw these sketches, I was jealous. Is there something strange in that?

No. Sam replied, It must have been like thinking you were going to lose your brother. You’re both very beautiful young women. I’m surprised the two of you get along so well.

I’m glad we’re not after the same guy, Jennifer admitted, That could be a problem.

So am I? Sam sighed, I think you’re great as sisters.

Yes, we are. Jennifer commented with a bright smile and brought out a handful of 9 by 12 pads, I always felt like we should have been all along; but that would make their relationship more than a little strange.

Why didn’t anyone tell me he was such a wonderful artist? Sam asked while looking at a picture of himself on his palomino, Alabaster.

That’s an early one. Jennifer told him, April 1963. You and Alabaster are getting ready to go after Herefords on the north range. Mom and I have both told you what a great artist he is. He’s also a poet and likes to write western stories. He’s a lot of real neat things. But, he’s not an architect; it bores him to tears. He’ll do it because he thinks that’s what you want. He really does love you.

Sam looked at her and sighed in despair.

In fact, he loves us all very much. Like most guys, he just doesn’t say it a lot. Jennifer said quietly, He loves us. He loves the ranch. He’s such a deep person. I wish I knew a stronger word with more meaning to describe how he feels about Jake. I hope I can find someone who loves me the way he loves her; whom I can love the way she loves him. I see it so clearly. I expect it with you and Momma; Aunt Carol and Uncle Ken. I even watched it grow with Jamie and Alicia. But here it is my generation, where everybody says that kind of thing isn’t possible anymore and my big brother goes and finds it on the farm next door. Did you know that Jamaica thought they were through, but still turned down dates with any guy that asked; finding fault with every single one of them.

How do you know so much about their relationship? Sam asked seriously.

Daddy; you never saw them anywhere except here and at the hospital. Jennifer replied, I have; so has Aunt Carol and Alicia. I think there’s a lot about their relationship that might interest, and worry, you. I know Momma was sure surprised when Jake showed her these pictures. You’re all convinced this whole thing started during his senior year, but it started way before that. They were going to elope in the fall of 67 after he graduated and she turned 16.

She’d have been too young. Sam sighed.

Not in Arkansas, Missouri or Oklahoma. Jennifer countered with a smirk, The only thing that stopped them was the Army, Vietnam, and some of his very best friends getting killed. Brent has a very deep sense of loyalty, duty and honor. His life insurance was made out to Jamaica. I have a copy of it in my dresser. He made me promise not to tell anyone unless he didn’t come back. I really, really think you should read the letter he wrote just in case the unthinkable happened. I don’t know what it says, but I have a feeling it would enlighten you about a lot of things.

There’s so much here. Sam sighed.

You two are a lot alike. Jennifer said softly, But Brent’s more sensitive, when he’s not trying to impress anyone. I’m a girl, so you expect me to have bad days and melt downs once in awhile. When it happens you blame it on my time of the month. So I get away with a lot he doesn’t and never has. He’s a great guy. I know you know it, but I also think you forget he’s your son instead of a hired hand sometimes.

Sam was taken back by what she said and needed time to think.

Jennifer knew she’d said too much and kissed his cheek before checking on Brent. Her intent was not to hurt her father. She said it because she was concerned about her brother and the strained relationship between the two most important men in her life.

Jen. Brent was barely able to say as she sat down next to him to wipe his face and neck with a cool, damp rag.

Yeah! Jennifer whispered.

He grasped her hand like he did when she was little, but had no strength in his grip.

Don’t worry? Brent sighed, I’ll be okay.

Alright. Jennifer sniffed and wiped her eyes. After a few minutes his fingers relaxed and he let go of her as he slipped back into a place of rest.

He still does that. Carol commented as she quietly came in the room carrying Lacey.

He still holds onto me. Jennifer wept and hugged Carol, He’s done it ever since I can remember.

He must be a good big brother. Lacey whispered sadly.

The best. Jennifer cried, He couldn’t talk in Japan, but he held my hand like he did when we were little kids. Mom told him to always look out for me and hold my hand when we went places because I was so curious. He’s never forgotten.

Would you like to help us with Lacey in the pool? Carol asked softly, Brenda’s going to show me how to do Lacey’s exercises.

Sure. Jennifer sighed and smiled saying, But only if I get to soak in the hot tub with her afterwards and can get a pair of those cool sunglasses to wear. Can you arrange that, Lacey?

Sure. Lacey replied, I can get anything from Aunt Brenda.

Jennifer wiped the tears from her eyes before getting up to leave.

Jennie! Brent exclaimed reaching out for her.

It’s okay, Brent. Carol told him softly, I’ve got her. She’s going to go try on swim suits with me.

Watch her really close, Aunt Carol. Brent told her, She can get away pretty fast.

I’ll watch her. I promise. Carol replied softly.

Brent smiled a little and admonished, as if she were still a small child, You mind Aunt Carol and don’t you dare go in the pool alone. You know what happened the last time.

I promise. Jennifer wept.

He is very sick, Mommy. Lacey whispered and asked, Will he be okay?

He’ll be alright in a few days. Carol assured her and explained, Right now he needs lots of rest.

Oh. Lacey whispered as the three of them left the room.

Chapter Three

SKETCH ARTIST

Sam looked down at the pile of sketch pads and began thumbing through pictures. To his surprise and delight there was a sketch of 2 year old Jennifer curled against her 5 year old big brother on the day bed taking a nap. Anna had taken several similar pictures of them, but none expressed the depth and warmth of the drawing. The very next one was of Jamaica lying beside the swimming pool with Jennifer and Alicia one fall day. It was drawn in October 1965. Jamaica would have turned 14 by then. He had her skin tone and dimples right. It was clear he was definitely attracted to her from the poem scribbled on the bottom left corner of the page. Another drawing was of Anna, Carol, Alicia, Jamaica and Jennifer riding together on the west range toward the Mustang run. The horses and riders were in fluid motion as if a split-second in time had been stopped for the page. He’d even gotten the wild animals scampering out of their way and mustangs in the distance.

Sam, what are you still doing up? Anna asked quietly, You should have been in bed an hour ago.

I’m doing what I used to do. Sam replied, Keeping the boogeyman away. I thought I’d look at some of his drawings while I was at it. Jake thought I should.

Sketch art, honey. Its sketch art and he’s a sketch artist. Anna corrected him and asked, Did you see this one yet? It’s the very first one he did of the 66 Corvette.

Wow! Sam gasped while looking over the picture of Jamaica and Brent standing in front of the car, This is incredible.

That was my reaction. Anna admitted then continued, But I don’t think you’re seeing the whole picture.

Sure I am, Sam countered, It’s of Jake and Brent. He’s dressed in a nice western suit. She’s wearing a white lace dress with pretty intricately woven sleeves and holding a bouquet of roses and wild flowers. She’s barefooted, like always. The car is behind them in front the building with the cross on top and the … Oh shit.

Not the word I used, but close. Anna said with a smile, It’s his high school class ring she’s got on. Isn’t it funny he’d had the car for a whole year and this is the first picture he drew of it?

Does this mean they’re already married? Sam gasped.

No. Anna answered, It means he thinks of them that way even then.

I’m amazed. Sam sighed, Where did he learn to do this?

From you. Anna told him with a soft smile, Don’t you remember how he used to watch you free hand designs? He’d set there on his little booster seat and draw on his pad, run over to look at your work, then run back and do some more. I remember when he asked why you made the lines so light. You told him it was so you could erase them without destroying the paper or the picture. That’s where this all started. Don’t you realize he even uses a drafting table instead of an easel. He learned from both of us, but my contribution served more to refine than teach. He’s studied everything about us. He has your eye for detail and how it fills the whole page. And, he has mine for selection of the picture he wants to draw.

Anna opened the closet, brought out some 18 by 24 inch pads and opened one explaining, These are some of the first pastels he did. This is the very first one. It shows how clearly he remembers things from a very early age. He did it in January 1965. In this picture Jennifer was so small she hadn’t lost her belly button yet.

Wow. Sam said, How can you tell?

Well, look at her size, Sam. Anna said with a giggle and answered, She was only 6 pounds 2 ounces. He was so amazed that I used to feed him the same way. He cherished those times with us. We’d all be on the bed together. He’d set back with his little head resting on your chest and watch me feed her. For him, the most important thing was that we were all together. He was a part of those moments of love we all shared. It was a warm, wonderful, safe time. This beautiful picture tells me he has the capacity to get out of himself and look at things

This should be framed and hanging in our room in a place of honor. Sam said softly, How come you never did that?

Because it’s so personal to him that he never brings it out for anyone to see. Anna replied, I only saw it because I was cleaning his room one day and this one fell out of the closet. Until then, I didn’t realize what an intensely private person he is.

But how does he get the looks and emotions so clearly? Sam asked with wonder.

I don’t have a clue. Anna replied as she turned the page, It’s a gift. I thought for years he couldn’t draw horses very well. But look at this.

Anna turned to another page showing Jamaica riding Sullivan with Brent and commented, He loved the girl even then. This isn’t a proud, boastful work. It’s a loving, peaceful one with two lovers riding together. It’s clearly puppy love, but all the earmarks of the real thing are already here.

When could they have done this? Sam asked, She couldn’t be more than 13 in this picture and he’s not more than 15. We thought he’d lost interest in girls. I was worried.

He had; you had reason to be. Anna giggled, He lost interest in all but one girl. Notice Sullivan is in motion. Brent’s intensely paying attention to the animal, but Jamaica is lying back against him supremely confident of his ability to control the all but wild horse. His left arm is around her, but not in a provocative or distasteful manner.

Do you think she’s seen this one? Sam asked.

I don’t know. Anna told him, But I do know she’s just as intensely private as he is.

Why do you suppose she told me to look at the pictures he did of her to understand something. Sam sighed.

Sure you do; you know what she wanted. Anna said with a soft smile, She loves and appreciates his work. It’s something they have in common that is very special to them. You’ve been allowed to visit their very private place. She’d never have told you about it unless she thought it was time for you to appreciate his abilities. She’s saying she trusts you with the one thing that’s most precious to her; her lover’s heart.

She took a risk. Sam sighed and relaxed a little.

Yes she did. Anna agreed and told him, I just saw these a few days ago. A lot of things made sense to me then. He’s drawn the pads on the top shelf since he’s been home. Most are of Jamaica.

Sam watched as she stood on her toes, carefully took the large pads down and laid them on the table while asking, Do they still look as good.

Every bit as good. Sam answered with a warm smile, speaking of her legs.

Good. Anna whispered and opened a pad titled ‘the Dream Book.’

That’s him and I out at Carson and Beeman’s places by the Mustang run, where they graze near the face of the mountains. Sam sighed, We’re setting on our horses like old friends, side by side, enjoying time with each other.

Isn’t it funny Ken, Beeman, Jamie and Carson aren’t here? Anna asked, They taught him all the skills he needed to survive over there; but they aren’t here. You taught him how to be a man and think instead of reacting. You’re the one who taught him how to treat a wife, love her and hold a child; how to be a friend even when it’s not politically correct. This was the very first pastel he did after he got home. He spent days on it because he was so weak; but it was that important to him. I think being Big Sam Kingman has made you forget you didn’t always judge every little thing he did; that you truly loved sharing time with him; teaching him important things a young man needs to know. Big Sam Kingman, whoever that is, came in somehow and stole his Daddy away. He doesn’t quite know how to address that. This beautiful piece of art shows his longing to have his father back. Honey, that’s the guy I chose to be the father of my children, because I knew he would cherish them and me.

The one who made sure the boogeyman stayed away from both of them for a long time. Sam sighed, He was 15 the last time we did this. I thought he was only interested in fast cars.

Oh! Anna said with a smile, He likes fast cars and lots of speed. He’ll be crazy about both of those cars, especially the GTO; what kid wouldn’t be. But if he had to give up the cars to spend time with you, they’d be gone in a minute.

Do you really think so? Sam asked quietly.

I know so. Anna replied, as she turned the pages to another picture.

That takes my breath away. Sam gasped.

This represents peace and harmony to him. Anna said with a soft smile.

I didn’t think they ever noticed. Sam sighed, Brent said something about it the other night, but I didn’t realize how important it was to him.

I don’t know when he did this. Anna whispered, I just know he was totally engrossed in it.

Sam’s eyes drank in the scene. He sat on the patio lounge with Anna on his lap; her head lying against his shoulder. The expression on their faces was of being totally in love with each other and the moment. Brent stood in the atrium doorway looking at them with an expression that said it made him feel warm and loved. Jennifer sat on the day bed in the atrium, drinking in the view with wide eyes. Both of the children looked comforted. In the sky a series of stars formed a heart around a mirror image.

This is peace, love and security to him. Anna sighed, It’s what he longs for with Jamaica.

I want this picture. Sam told her.

It’s the only one in all of these works he duplicated with different characters. Anna told him and turned a few more pages, Jamaica actually showed me this one first.

Wow! Sam exclaimed.

This time we’re standing in the doorway quietly watching them. Your arms are around me and mine are around Jennifer. Anna said admiring the beauty of the piece, He did this one within two weeks of being home. Look at them Sam, totally satisfied with each other and what we’re seeing. I look totally in love with you; she looks totally in love with him. The two of us are surrounded and protected by the men who love us. There’s an invisible barrier excluding whatever else is going on in the world. There is nothing else happening in this picture. To him, it’s contentment. Jamaica told me that when she saw these two pictures it scared her so much she wanted to run away. She loves him but it’s a very scary thing to be so totally loved. Women usually only really expect that from a child. I know how she felt; it still scares me. Do you know when all this started with them?

66 when Brent gave her Lila for her birthday. Sam said confidently.

Ah, Sam. Anna sighed with a loving smile, A horse is the price of a bride. But that special moment where puppy love changed to the real thing happened over Labor Day weekend at the last lake barbecue in 1965. The Phillip’s came. Alicia was a little too openly flirting with Jamie. Carol said she thought it would be a really good idea for the girls to go for a horseback ride to get Jamie and Alicia apart for awhile, so she took the three of them for a ride.

Oh yeah! Sam exclaimed, She had Brent come along for protection. Carol rode King Edward the Buckskin; Alicia rode Darius the palomino; Jen took Brainless, Prince’s sister; Jamaica and Brent rode a pair of quarter horses, Shiigirl and Prince. I was worried about him taking Prince because he wasn’t well trained yet. So what?

You don’t get it, Anna sighed, At the time, I didn’t either. In fact, I didn’t get it until Jamaica told me. The five of them rode out of sight of the lake. Then Brent and Jamaica went off on their own and the rest went on out to the Mustang herd. When they came back three of the horses were hot and thirsty, as one would expect after a long ride and went to the lake for water. Shiigirl and Prince, on the other hand, were all frisky and took off to play as soon as the saddles came off. When they came back, what horse was Jamaica riding?

Prince! Sam exclaimed, No one was riding Prince then except Carol and Brent.

Do you get it? Anna asked and kissed his cheek, Prince was exclusively Brent’s horse, but there she was, big as day riding him. They both had the tall grass on them that comes from the creek feeding the lake. They probably hadn’t gone a mile. Carol, Jennifer and Alicia couldn’t wait to get in the lake, but not Jamaica and Brent. He went to help you cook and Jamaica went to lay down on the shoreline. The others finally got her in the water, but she was different then and has been ever since. That’s when puppy love ended and every picture he’s drawn of her since has been with a band of some sort on her finger.

But that’s so young. Sam sighed.

They didn’t go far enough that they had to be ashamed; although I’m relatively sure things got very close. Anna commented, They’re a pair of remarkable kids.

Carol wouldn’t help kids out like that. Sam said quietly.

Honey, I grew up with Carol. Anna replied and asked, Who talked you and Ken into hiring Tony Dickerson to work here while he’s taking care of his grandparents?

Carol, Sam shrugged, But that doesn’t prove anything. We hire a lot of kids to work around here in the summer; he’s a hard worker.

Sam, who was the most opposed to the idea? Anna asked while looking down at her fingernails.

Jennifer. Sam answered, She said there are a lot of other boys around here who would work better. She thinks he has a smart mouth and a bad temper.

I heard the same things from Brent about Jamaica. Anna told him, The problem is that she’s not Daddy’s little girl anymore and he’s not a little boy. Jen is an attractive young woman, and Tony is a very handsome young man. You can set back and watch something beautiful grow, or you can be like the Phillip’s and do everything in your power to stop it and throw those kids into something they may not end up wanting.

But she’s only 17. Sam protested.

Yes, she is. Anna replied with a smile, The same age I was when a certain cowboy swept me off my feet. His hair was red. His eyes were blue. He was too tall and a little arrogant. He had all kinds of problems. But, he touched my shoulder one day and asked me if I’d like a Coke. I guess he swept me off of my feet.

What happened to the poor guy? Sam asked softly while wrapping his arms around her.

Oh; I kept him around. Anna said while playing with the buttons on his shirt and straightening his collar, But he could have gone for the red head. She’d have taken him in a minute.

But she’s not the blonde. Sam sighed and kissed her before saying, I wanted the blonde.

Bad temper and all? Anna asked half seriously.

That keeps life interesting. Sam replied and kissed her again.

You’re sure? Anna whispered, I can be pretty demanding.

Very sure. Sam answered softly, You’re the light of my life.

Still? Anna sighed.

Still. Sam whispered smiling while holding her gently, I’ve never been sorry, nor wanted anyone else.

But soon I’ll be big, round, cranky and want stupid things in the middle of the night. Anna sighed, laying her head against his chest, Everything is going south. I’m not 20 anymore. I don’t know what this pregnancy is going to do to my body.

I’m not 20 anymore either. Sam told her softly, You already have this glow that says we’re going to have a baby. I think you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met. I think God blessed me with you and blessed us with wonderful kids who annoy and irritate the hell out of us at times. And, I think this little one is going to be a new adventure. It’s a privilege to love and honor you as much as I’m capable of for the rest of my life.

Anna kissed him softly and smiled while cuddling him.

Your hair still smells like the flowers in the morning dew. Sam whispered.

I think you’re a cowboy in love. Anna replied.

Our boy’s getting married. Sam said softly as Jamaica silently walked into the room, sat down next to Brent, lifted his hand to her lips and kissed it. They watched as she took a cool rag from the pan and wiped the sweat off his face and neck.

The stream is nice and warm. Brent whispered, I’ve never felt anything as soft as you are. Do you think anyone knows where we are? I hope Jen keeps quiet.

Jen won’t tell anyone. Jamaica replied, knowing instinctively what he was talking about, But you shouldn’t have your hand there; it feels too good. Your touch melts me.

He’s wrong. Brent sighed, Why don’t we go down to Lawton. Wait until school starts. We’ll ditch and go do it. Once we’re married …

September, Brent, Jamaica countered, with tears in her eyes, We can’t do anything until my birthday. I have to be 16 years old; remember?

We could lie. Brent sighed.

I don’t want to start my life with you on a lie. Jamaica told him and kissed him softly.

Okay. Brent sighed and laid his head to the side to sleep.

Why didn’t you run away? Anna asked quietly.

My grandmother saw me kiss Brent by the willow trees on the way home from visiting the Dickerson’s. Jamaica explained, After that they wouldn’t let me out of their sight and put potions in my food until Brent went in the Army. I saw him look at me from the plane when he left for Vietnam and I knew he still loved me. I know that sounds stupid but …

Not at all. Anna assured her and hugged her gently.

I’m sorry he said that with you and Papa here. Jamaica sniffed, I know what it must have sounded like, but he was always very respectful and considerate of me. We got carried away a few times, but we always stopped before it went too far.

Anna quietly observed her confusion and comforted her saying, All that’s over now.

What can I do for him? Jamaica asked with tears in her eyes, I feel so helpless.

You’re exhausted, little one. Anna replied softly, All you can do is love him.

I don’t want to leave here. Jamaica told her.

Why don’t you lay down then? Anna sighed.

I need to exercise. Jamaica whispered, I promised Lacey I’d get in the hot tub with her. I have so much to do.

Anna took her by the hand, walked her around the bed and encouraged her to set down, before removing her slippers. Jamaica sniffed as she lay down and snuggled to Brent’s side, placing her right hand over his heart. His arm automatically wrapped around her.

Apple-butter and cinnamon. Brent whispered in his sleep.

Yeah! Jamaica sighed and kissed his chest.

I love you Mrs. Kingman. Brent said softly.

I like the sound of that. Jamaica whispered and drifted off to sleep.

Brent kissed the top of her head and smiled. His entire body seemed to relax.

Sam put the sketches away and walked out of the room with Anna. For a moment he was tempted to go into the map room, but she firmly led him through the library to their private patio and sat with him on the lounge snuggling against him as they watched the work being done on the new house. His eyes soon grew heavy and he drifted off to sleep. Anna went and got a blanket to cover him, took off his boots, and let him rest.

Chapter Four

COMPETITION

What’s wrong? Brent asked.

This isn’t going to work, Brent. Jamaica told him bluntly, while moving his hand away from her thigh, Let me get this straight. We’re going to have to somehow drive across three states unnoticed in a maroon Corvette and voluntarily go to a state where inter-racial marriage is a really big deal and not tolerated. That’s asking for more trouble then even you can handle. I’m not sure it’s safe for us to get married at all; even here. Do you think I want you dead? I don’t want you hurt. I don’t want to be a young widow. Get it through your thick head I’m one-quarter black and there are certain realities about that.

Stop playing the race card. Brent shouted angrily, Either you want to marry me or you don’t.

I love you, Brent. Jamaica replied while waking up.

Then marry me and stop this craziness. Brent stated emphatically.

We’re getting married on Sunday, honey. Jamaica assured him, then realized he was still sleeping, kissed his chest and said, Wake up; you’re unsnapping my shirt again.

I’m sorry. Brent sighed and moved his hand away from her chest.

How do you do that so fast? Jamaica exclaimed while refastening her bra, Do you practice while I’m asleep, or what? You’ve done it since I was 15. Are you fixated? Not breast fed long enough? Tell me what it is.

All of the above. Brent sighed while waking up, I was dreaming. I’m sorry.

Honey we had that argument on July 14, 1967. Jamaica told him while reaching across him for a glass of water and a straw, then held it to his lips saying, Drink; your throat’s dry.

Thank you. Brent whispered, as she put the glass back.

Would you stop looking at them? Jamaica asked.

Well, they’ve gotten bigger. Brent sighed, At least I don’t touch them all the time.

In public. Jamaica said softly, then asked in a worried tone, Were you really afraid I was trying to leave you or didn’t want to be with you anymore?

I guess I was. Brent confessed, We had that argument and I didn’t see you anymore. Does the race thing still worry you?

Sometimes. Jamaica admitted.

But what have I done to promote that fear? Brent worried.

Nothing. Jamaica replied, You’re always loving and wonderful to me. But sometimes it scares me that I may not be able to be the woman you want. You know, taller, bigger busted, demure and sultry; a better shaped nose and little larger earlobes. Things like that.

You mean more like Cassie. Brent said softly while yawning.

Well, yeah. I mean you have a lot in common. Jamaica sighed while looking down at her fingernails, You really love little Patty. I mean I’d understand, she’s very pretty.

Come here. Brent whispered, lifted her chin and looked into her eyes before saying, You’re beautiful. You’re all I’ve ever wanted. I don’t want anyone but you. I don’t like it when you compare yourself with anyone else. It just causes you grief. I love you, not her or anyone else.

Jamaica looked in his eyes for any hint of insincerity, finally smiled and said, You really do love me, don’t you?

Honey, Brent sat up, hugged her tightly and kissed her, then said, If I die, go to heaven and God says I can have any woman I want, I’ll still pick you. Hell for me, would be eternity without seeing your smile or holding you in my arms. I love you.

You’re not lying? Jamaica sniffed.

Nope. Brent answered quickly with a smile, You’re stuck with me. I want you with me for better or worse; through sickness and health; for richer or poorer and everything else.

What if I get fat and cranky? Jamaica worried.

Yep; even then. Brent shrugged, You’re stuck with me.

That’s a relief. Jamaica sighed, turned around and lay back against his chest, I was really worried.

Did you know my Mom gets worried too? Brent told her.

She does? Jamaica asked a little shocked, But she’s gorgeous. I wouldn’t think she ever worried about those things.

Oh yes. Brent replied, The biggest competition she’s ever had lives right here.

Aunt Brenda. Jamaica said, She mentioned something about that. I can see why. I’m glad you’re not into older women; I’d be worried with her around.

Why do you think Mom learned to do massages? Brent asked, When Mom gets pouty it’s usually because she thinks Dad’s paying a little too much attention to Aunt Brenda.

But they don’t argue or anything. Jamaica told him.

Do you mean Mom and Aunt Brenda? Brent asked.

Yeah. Jamaica replied as Brent bent his arm and put his hand on her stomach.

They never have. Brent told her, They try to keep the air clear between them, just like you and Jen; so do Mom and Aunt Carol for that matter. If Karen stays it’ll be the same. They’ll meet on the patio or in the atrium for coffee in the mornings and talk. That’s the way it’s been as long as I can remember.

Hey. Jamaica exclaimed and smacked his arm, You’re not supposed to know about girl stuff.

Oh. Brent sighed, I forgot.

Jamaica turned, kissed him softly, then commented, You have chapped lips.

I noticed. Brent commented as she got off the bed, went to the bathroom, found a chap stick, returned and applied it to his lips.

Jamaica. Brenda said as she came into the room, Phil and I have to do some things to Brent.

It’s not Malaria is it? Jamaica sighed.

What gives you that idea? Brenda asked.

I’m in no mood for word games Aunt Brenda. Jamaica said firmly, You don’t change medications at night and this is the third change in less than 24 hours. Don’t treat me like a little girl.

Malaria is kind of a minor player in this. Brenda told her honestly, He has a mild case, but there’s much more involved that I really don’t have time to explain. You need to leave us alone for awhile. He’s going to get some new medicines.

So did the letters help? Jamaica worried.

Hun, if this stuff works the way they say it’s supposed to, you can look forward to a long life together. Brenda told her while opening a box of medicine, If we hadn’t found it in time he wouldn’t live to see 40. It’s a couple of really rare tropical diseases far too complicated to explain. Luckily, they are indigenous to a specific area on the Laotian and Cambodian borders. A very small group of World War II POW’s had it. Nobody knew what it was and nothing was developed in time to help them. Most were dead by 35 and the ones that lived to be 40 had horrible health issues. Only one lived to be 41 and died a miserable death in an obscure hospital no one has ever heard of. The pictures with the two blisters and the rash were the key to the whole thing.

But Papa said they were blister agent burns and nerve gas rashes. Jamaica told her.

There may have been some of that, but the blisters Phil and I saw were indicative of the disease. Brenda told her, Thank your lucky stars we study rare tropical diseases as a hobby and so do some of our friends in and out of the military. What the hell were you doing in that area, Brent? It’s been off limits to everyone since the end of the World War Two.

What picture? Brent asked.

Phil handed him the picture.

Brent looked at it and tossed it to the foot of the bed explaining, It was supposed to be a pilot in distress. We never were able to locate the wreckage. There was nothing but jungle and some really barren places.

How large was the team, Brent? Phil asked.

14, Brent answered, Two choppers.

How many survived? Brenda asked.

Eight. Brent answered.

You, Timmy and who else? Jamaica demanded while snapping her shirt.

Blaine and I really don’t remember who the rest were, Brent replied, It was just another mission to us. The maps were off, so we knew something wasn’t right; but we really didn’t know what.

So you don’t know what happened to the rest of the guys? Phil asked.

No, I don’t. Brent answered, The five of them kept to themselves.

That means five guys are running around somewhere with this time bomb in them. Brenda said angrily, If it were contagious, I don’t even want to think of the consequences.

Can’t I help somehow? Jamaica sighed.

You probably saved his life. Phil answered while slowing the saline drip on Brent’s I.V. tube and attached another bag of medicine, while Brenda prepared a large syringe with a different kind of medicine.

This is going to burn and probably give you a good bruise, so pick between your butt and your thigh. Brenda told him.

Brent turned onto his side.

Nice butt. Jamaica quipped nervously as Brenda gave him the shot.

Shit. Brent gasped as Brenda slowly injected the serum.

Where did you get that piece of bone in your back? Brenda asked.

During that mission. Brent replied as Brenda took out a pair of sterile gloves.

Are you still carrying around anything else from that mission? Phil asked while injecting something else in the I.V.

No. Brent answered as Brenda carefully sliced the spot on his back open, removed the piece of bone with a pair of forceps and laid it on a sterile gauze pad.

I’m going to put a drain in that. Brenda told him, It should be healed up by the time you get those stitches out of your side. So you can still bathe well before the wedding. Jamaica, Carol and Ann are in the pool with Lacey. You need to take your medicine, exercise the arm, soak in the hot tub for awhile and do something else.

But I want to stay. Jamaica sighed with her hand over her heart.

No, little one. Brenda replied, This is not the place for you right now. I’ve never kept you two apart. But for the next few hours you have to let us work.

I love you, honey. Jamaica managed to tell Brent through the lump in her throat before hurrying out of the room.

Chapter Five

ANGELS

Kuba hurried up to Jamaica as she came out of the room and walked with her into the kitchen. Jamaica got the dog a piece of jerky and patted her head; then hugged her and pointed toward another room. As she got up and started getting her medicine, Alicia walked over and hugged Jamaica tightly, letting her cry for a few minutes.

I’m okay. Jamaica told her and tried to smile. Her hands shook so badly she couldn’t open the bottles and Alicia helped.

Momma? Alicia asked.

She’s with Brent. Jamaica wept and clinched her fists trying to stop her hands from shaking.

No. Alicia said as softly as she could, You need you Momma?

Jamaica nodded and Alicia hurried to the pool area. Anna came out quickly and rushed to her.

Let me do that. Anna said, took the pill bottle from Jamaica’s hand and gave her one.

"He’s really sick,