Unrest

2014 Cheyenne Dean And Kimsu Sutton. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 01/03/2014

ISBN: 978-1-4918-4260-7 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4918-4259-1 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4918-4258-4 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2013922533

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

Acknowledgements

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chapter 43

Chapter 44

Chapter 45

Chapter 46

Chapter 47

Chapter 48

Chapter 49

Chapter 50

Chapter 51

Chapter 52

Chapter 53

Chapter 54

Chapter 55

Chapter 56

Chapter 57

Chapter 58

Chapter 59

Chapter 60

Chapter 61

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We would like to extend our thanks to the following for their support, encouragement and help in any way during the writing of our second novel.

Sue Blackwell

Brenda Boggs

Coy Boggs

Sharon Broyles

James Dean

Todd Dean

Robin Fleenor

Jon Holmes

Janet Seals

Chris Sutton

Logan Sutton

Madison Sutton

CHAPTER 1

It was a nice day for traveling as the hot August sun shone through the windows of the white SUV. Mark put on a pair of sunglasses, blocking the sun from his eyes.

His wife, Ellie, leaned her head against a window, exhausted from the long trip, the sun sparkled from her light blonde hair.

Their dog, Roscoe, usually a hyperactive Boston terrier lay quietly in the back seat sleeping peacefully giving in to the boredom of the long hours on the road. Mark looked through the rearview mirror and wondered what Roscoe was going to think of the winter months in the country, cold weather being something he was not accustomed to. The radio played softly as Mark tapped the steering wheel, keeping rhythm with the music.

Ellie raised her head, rubbing the kinks from her neck. She gazed out the window noticing the fields of livestock grazing in the green rolling hills. We must be getting close, she thought. Look at the mountains, now that’s something you don’t see in Arizona, she said in amazement.

Mark agreed, enjoying the scenery as he moved quickly down the two lane road, eager to get to their new home.

Oh! yelled Ellie, sitting up straight in her seat. He quickly looked at her, with deep brown eyes that flashed with concern.

Are you alright? She grabbed his hand and placed it across her protruding stomach. He smiled feeling the new life growing inside her. It feels like we might be going to have us a football player, he said jokingly.

You’re telling me! she replied, rubbing her hand across her stomach. Mark turned left off the road into a small town. Other than a few customers seen entering and exiting the local grocery store, the streets seemed deserted. Now this is what I call a small town, she said, glancing at the few shops that bordered the streets.

After moving through the outskirts of town, Mark pointed out the University. The water from the fountain sparkled golden in the sun. That’s where the previous owner of the house was employed; he is an art professor originally from Chicago. He and his family didn’t live here very long, about a year I think.

Why did they leave so soon? she asked.

I really don’t know, just got home sick for the city, I guess. But wait until you see the house. It’s perfect! You’ll love it, he said, turning into the long gravel driveway.

Roscoe scrambled around in the back seat staring out the window, his long tongue draped from the side of his mouth as he panted wildly from the heat. Just a few more minutes and you can go for a stroll, said Mark.

Ellie was in awe as she immediately recognized the house from the distance as they continued up the gravel drive. The large pines stood tall bordering the driveway, waving their branches as if greeting the new occupants. The two story house stood proudly on the hill overlooking a pond.

As soon as the vehicle came to a stop, Mark opened the door as Roscoe jumped from the seat running through the yard and around the house. Ellie got out to stretch her legs, and to view their new home. It was exactly what they were looking for with its large yard and fenced in area with a dog house for Roscoe. It is perfect, she thought. She looked to her left, pointing at an old abandoned white house. The roof had begun to sink from the elements. Weeds climbed freely almost taking over the entire house. Gosh, I wonder who lived there, she said.

It doesn’t look like anyone has in a long time, he answered. She stared into the dark windows where the tattered curtain remained still, locking the memories inside.

Would you like to see your new home? He asked, pulling the key from his pocket. He wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her arm. Be careful and don’t fall. She walked slowly onto the porch resting her hand on her large belly.

The thick leaves of the trees concealed the lone man in the distance. He pulled a handkerchief from his back pocket, wiping the perspiration from his forehead. Sticking the shovel into the loose dirt, he leaned against it, looking into the direction of the bright sun, squinting his eyes as he peered through the trees, watching as the young couple approached the house. This house will be alive again, he thought, as he wiped the dirt from his hands on the back of his trousers, propping the shovel up against the side of the house.

He stood back, glancing into his garden. My, how it has grown, he thought, as he reached over, plucking a strawberry from the newly grown vines. He held it in his hand admiring its plump perfect form. All of his work had paid off, he thought as he popped it into his mouth. The succulent nectar dripped from the corner of his mouth as he bit down on its smooth flesh. The bright red, tear-shaped liquid was quickly swept away by his moist tongue. It was the sweetest strawberry he had ever tasted. He felt pleased that he had found the perfect fertilizer for strawberries. He removed his cap, raked back his hair before placing it back on, and walked down the hill.

As Ellie entered the house, the bright yellow wallpaper welcomed her, giving the kitchen a sunny glow. She was unable to explain the heavy empty feeling that enveloped her. She hurried through the kitchen into the family room. She immediately noticed the beautiful artwork stacked neatly against the wall. The air became heavy as chill bumps erupted on her arms in spite of the warm weather. Ellie, said Mark, touching her shoulder. She jumped and spun around.

God, Mark, you scared me to death!

Sorry, I just wanted to know what you think of the place. Is it perfect or what?

Guess I just got caught up in the beautiful artwork. I can’t imagine why anyone would leave them behind. Mark stared up at the portrait hanging above the fireplace.

Especially this one, she is beautiful! he said.

She cupped her hands over his eyes. Alright, that’s enough! she said. Now go and start unpacking the car. He grinned, turning to leave. He was met by a tall lanky stranger standing before him.

Would you like a hand unloading? came, a gruff voice.

That sure would be nice if you wouldn’t mind, he replied.

Mind? I would love to! The two men went out the door, talking between themselves as if they had known each other for a long time. Ellie, alone again, looked at the portrait that seemed to be staring back at her. The green eyes, framed by long, beautiful auburn hair, seemed to come alive piercing through her very soul. As she turned away, a breeze swept across her body causing the hairs on the back of her neck to stand on end. There was something about the house that gave her an uneasy feeling. She was relieved to hear Mark’s voice echoing from the empty kitchen. She hurried to him, not wanting to be alone.

Where would you like me to put these boxes? He asked, his arms stacked with belongings. Roscoe circled around his feet panting from his run in the yard.

Well, who is this little guy? Hello, pal, the stranger said, reaching down in an attempt to pat his head. Roscoe dropped his head, laying his ears back while a low growl rolled from his throat.

Roscoe! Mark yelled, Bad dog! I’m sorry, sir, he has never acted like that before. He is always gentle with everyone. It must be the unfamiliar surroundings.

No problem, son, I understand. Well now, what have we here? he asked, staring at Ellie’s oversized stomach. He walked over and placed his large hand across her stomach.

It’s a boy, she proudly announced, smiling up at him. He bent down placing his mouth close to her side.

Hi, little fellow, why me and you are going to be good buddies. Raising up, he exclaimed, Why how rude of me, I never even introduced myself! He stretched out his hand. My name is Roy.

CHAPTER 2

He’s a hard-working man, Ellie thought, from the feel of his rough, calloused hand and firm grip.

She smiled up at him. His eyes lowered, avoiding any eye contact but smiling weakly. She felt a strange connection to him. His faded cap concealed most of his hair except for long straggly, almost all white strands that escaped from the sides. His short stubby beard was all white. He was wearing a denim shirt with the sleeves pushed up, revealing leathery dark tanned arms.

The new life inside her chose that moment to give a hard kick causing her to inhale sharply. Placing her hands across her abdomen she laughed, I believe the long car trip has this little fellow in an uproar.

Mark walked over, placing his arm around her shoulder protectively. We’re excited about our new addition to the family. Do you have children, Roy?

Uh… , Stammered Roy, adjusting his cap bill, nervously pushing it down further over his pale eyes. My son died—I am alone.

I’m sorry, said Mark, turning loose of Ellie, slapping his shoulder lightly. I shouldn’t ask such personal questions to someone I just met.

It’s okay! answered Roy, I’ll soon have a boy running in the yard, I will.

You sure will, said Mark, gazing at Roscoe lying in the corner panting, saliva dripping from his wet glistening tongue. Come on, Roscoe, said Mark, slapping his thigh to get his attention, Let’s go get some water and run a little, you’ve been cooped up too long.

Roscoe rose, trotting toward Mark, his nails clicking on the hardwood floor. He glanced suspiciously in Roy’s direction. Come on, Roy, show me around a little. Ellie, you examine your new home, and after you rest for a while, we’ll go find a grocery store.

As the door closed behind them, Ellie felt as if she were suffocating. She felt as if she were trespassing in another woman’s house. It’s because they left some personal belongings, she thought, glancing at the green eyed beauty above the fireplace. Her eyes seemed to be looking through her, instead of at her. She visualized her own family portrait in that spot. Then she would feel better.

Eager to check out the rest of the house, she re-entered the kitchen. The sunny yellow walls made her feel more welcome. She liked the strawberry border that seemed to dance along the top. She would carry out the strawberry theme in her own kitchen, she decided. She liked the bright splashes of color. She opened and closed the bright pantry doors. Some cleaning supplies remained. She could almost feel the auburn haired woman standing in that same spot, preparing meals for her family. Mark had told her that they too had had a son.

A new excitement filled her. She was going to be happy here, a new start, things were going to be better.

Not wanting to linger on the past she started slowly up the stairs. The strain of the long car trip and her heavy abdomen caused her back to ache. She held on to the railing for support. Her footsteps grew heavy, as if dragged down by invisible weights.

Reaching the top, she stopped to catch her breath before entering a small room. The walls were pale blue, the worn, but clean, carpet was a shade of blue darker than the walls. She walked over to the window admiring the pine trees that stood proudly against the almost cloudless sky. She pushed up the window to allow fresh air to enter, carrying the sounds of birds chirping and an occasional bark from Roscoe.

Crossing the room she opened the closet door, which would soon hold her son’s clothing. A small denim jacket remained, over looked by the last occupants. As she started to close the door, she noticed an object on the dark floor. She opened the door wider allowing the light to fall on a bright green toy soldier lying on its side, with a rifle pointing at her face. She quickly shut the door, her heart pounding.

What is wrong with me, she thought, it is only a toy for God’s sake! She felt threatened, as if the soldier was warning her to leave the memories of another life undisturbed.

Walking down the hall she went into a bathroom. She liked the large space. A shower with a glass door was in the corner. The wide mirror over the sink displayed ivy green metal vines climbing up the sides, meeting at the top with a flair. The walls were a shade of green darker than the ivy.

Her reflection in the mirror was pale. Her blonde hair hanging limp to her chin, her bangs separating and damp above her large blue eyes. She splashed cool water on her face before realizing she had no towel. She raised the tail of her tee-shirt wiping her face on the soft pink fabric. She fluffed her hair with her fingers, and pinched her cheeks to put color into them. After all, weren’t pregnant women supposed to glow?

She walked down the hallway eager to see the master bedroom. Standing in the doorway she admired the rose-colored walls, and double windows. She visualized where their bed would go, and her desk. Writing was important to her. Her desk drawers held her many diaries detailing her life up to this moment. Mark had purchased a new one for her that would be filled with their new life, a life that was going to improve. She held on to the doorway as a wave of dizziness overtook her. She needed someone to talk to about the strange feelings that emanated from the walls of the house.

Her diary, her therapy! She slowly descended the stairs holding tight for fear of falling. Glancing behind her she sensed she was being followed. She walked around the boxes that Mark had placed in the center of the family room, spotting one that had her name written on it in bold black letters. She sank slowly to her knees stripping away the tape that sealed it, Exposing a stack of leather bound diaries; her life up to this point. A life she had left behind, closed as tightly as the pages that contained it. She pulled each one out, stacking them on the floor beside her until she reached the new one, the pages to be filled with happiness. She ran her fingers across the smooth, red leather before opening it. She smelled the new pages before pressing down to loosen them. Reaching in the box, she retrieved her pack of pens and settled down on the floor, resting her back against the boxes.

She dated the top of the page—August 12, 1992. She stared at it wondering what each page would hold. She began to write, the small neat letters formed words—eternalizing the day.

Dear diary,

Our new life began today. We have reached our destination. I am filled with excitement but a sense of fear also. Perhaps it’s just the unknown I am afraid of. I am closing the door to the life we left behind. Now it’s just Mark and me and the new life inside me. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t miss my parents. I hope sometime in the future we can make amends so that my son will get to know his grandparents.

This house is nice but kind of isolated. We do have one neighbor-a man that looks to be in his sixties. He came and introduced himself and helped carry in some of our things. He seems nice-he looks like a hardworking man-deep wrinkles in his leathery face. He has a beard and long straggly hair that hangs out of his cap. He said he had a son that died but didn’t say what happened to him.

I’m tired from the trip so I will write more later. Wish us well on our new adventure. Oh, by the way, I didn’t introduce you to our new neighbor—his name is Roy.

Sincerely,

Ellie

Ellie had replaced the diaries in the box as Mark came in. He reached out his hand to help her stand, smiling. Let’s go get some food. I believe I saw a supermarket as we drove in. I’ll set up our bed when we get back so we can rest for tonight and get an early start unpacking tomorrow.

Where is Roscoe? she asked, glancing behind him.

I put him in the fenced in area in the back, perfect for him. He can run off some of his pent up energy and he’s still a little apprehensive around Roy.

Ellie noticed her ankles were puffy and swollen and insisted on riding in the back seat in order to prop them up. She placed a small pillow behind her back, settling in, small feet kicking at her insides, making her smile. Her son was eager to begin life on his own.

All set? asked Mark as he turned the key in the ignition. The passenger door suddenly opened, startling him. Oh, Roy, we were going to the supermarket. Do you need anything?

Roy climbed in, a slight smile tugging at his lips.

Well, I just thought I’d ride along if you don’t mind. I know the best place to shop. That is if it’s okay with you folks?

Uh… well sure, we don’t mind do we, Ellie?

Ellie raised her head meeting Mark’s eyes in the rear view mirror. It’s fine, Roy, she mumbled.

Mark and Roy’s voices mingled with the hum of the motor making her eyes very heavy with sleepiness. She tried to keep them open to admire the beauty of the country side, but had not realized how sleepy she was.

Drifting away, she was once again in her mother’s warm spacious kitchen, smelling the inviting aroma that filled the room. The empty feeling returned, the sadness she had felt since leaving Mark, and she whimpered softly.

You’ll get over him, Ellie! You come from a good family. Just be thankful there are no children involved!

Her mother was slim and attractive, her blonde hair pulled back in a neat chignon, a bright comb with rhinestone decorating the sides. Her mother never worked outside the home, but belonged to prestigious clubs and loved being in the limelight. Ellie felt that she had been a disappointment to her by not being feminine. Her mother had enrolled her in a ballet class when she was seven but she had stubbornly refused to practice. She preferred playing softball with the boys.

Her father was rarely home, but provided well for Ellie and her mother.

Ellie had just graduated from high school, when she met Mark. Her dream was to be a writer and she had planned to attend college. A friend introduced him to her at a football game. He was not the most handsome man she had ever met, but the chemistry was so strong she felt weak in her knees. She had never felt this way before.

His dark brown eyes held mystery, his straight brown hair falling into them as he constantly pushed it back. He seemed charming and exciting, not stuffy like her father. He had a ‘devil may care’ attitude that she found extremely sexy. She found out later that he had been raised in foster homes due to unfit parents, but by then he could have been from Mars and it wouldn’t have mattered, she was in love. He had dropped out of high school and worked in construction.

She hadn’t known he felt the same about her until he called the very next night. His deep voice sent shivers down her spine.

He had picked her up in an old model Camaro with a loud muffler, but she couldn’t have been happier in a Rolls Royce. She couldn’t remember the movie that played that night, only his arms around her and his gentle kisses.

They had a whirlwind romance that led to an engagement a few months later. Her mother cried when she told her, dabbing at her eyes with a lacy handkerchief. Heaven forbid that she mess up her make up! He’ll never amount to anything, Ellie! You’ll never have a home like you have now, she sniffed. What the hell is wrong with you? Where did I go wrong?

I want to be with him, mother, I love him!

Love! her mother had shouted, The feeling will die, Ellie and you will have nothing but scrimping and watching pennies. Your children will never have the life and opportunities that you have had. I grew up with nothing, and I married a man with a future, so my children would never do without. Love has nothing to do with it, even though I did grow to love him. You can love a man with money as well as a poor one.

Well, that may be okay for you, Mother, but I love Mark and money does not matter. He is a hard-working man and I can get a job.

When her mother realized she could not stop her, she began planning an elaborate wedding, only to impress her friends. Mark did not want that.

Let’s elope, Ellie. I don’t want a big ‘to do.’

Ellie was awakened by Roy’s coarse voice. You never did say why you left Arizona for this neck of the woods, he said.

Her heart was in her throat. Would Mark tell about the demons he was trying to escape?

With a child on the way we just wanted a new start, a good, wholesome place to raise our son, he answered, his hands gripping the steering wheel until his knuckles turned white. And this is beautiful country! Look over there, Ellie. The trees are so full and green, the houses so quaint and homey." She knew he was trying to change the subject to keep Roy from prying further into his past.

She rose up, taking in the countryside. It was beautiful and she knew she would be happy here—the demons left behind in Arizona.

The Sartins had the same idea, to raise their son in the country, but it only lasted about a year, sure hope you folks stay. Roy was determined to stay on the subject.

We will, Roy, Mark assured him. We will fit in just fine here.

Pull into this market, it has everything you need, said Roy, pointing to the left. Mark pulled into Food Town, its bright sign flashing red and green lights. It was small compared to the one in Arizona and not very crowded judging by the almost empty parking lot.

Ellie felt of her ankles, satisfied that the swelling had gone down some. She sat up straight rubbing her hair to tame it, leaning forward to get a glimpse of herself in the mirror.

You’re pretty, said Mark, turning and kissing her on the cheek. Roy was exiting the vehicle opening the back door for Ellie. She glanced at Mark before climbing out on Roy’s side. Mark waited, placing his arm around her shoulder as the three walked wordlessly inside.

Roy! yelled a masculine voice over the loud noise of the shopping carts as Mark pulled one free from the long row. They were approached by a short, stout man who appeared to be in his forties. He was well dressed in a brown sports jacket and brown slacks.

I’ve been meaning to stop by your place to see if you have heard from Bill. He promised to call and give me his new address when he got settled, but I have not heard a word and that is not like him. The man’s voice held concern.

Greg, meet the new occupants of the house. This is Mark and Ellie Gibbins.

Glad to meet you, said Greg, extending his hand first to Ellie then to Mark. I teach at the university where Bill was an art professor, I sure miss him, and would love to hear from him, he said, glancing at Roy.

Roy tugged at his cap bill. I was hoping to hear from him too, Greg, but not a word. Guess that’s how city folks are. Hope that little Danny is okay, I miss him, but hey, another boy will soon be playing in the yard again! His gaze travelled to Ellie’s protruding stomach.

Congratulations! exclaimed Greg, I’ve got to go now; my wife is cooking dinner and needed a few things. Roy, if you happen to hear from Bill, be sure and let me know.

Sure thing! exclaimed Roy, watching as Greg exited, a brown paper bag in his hand.

I guess we will be hearing from the Sartins, said Ellie, I’m sure they want the things they left behind, especially the beautiful art.

Aw, old Bill could paint more in no time, don’t worry about that. Come on, let’s hunt some food, said Roy, leading the way down the spacious isles. Mark and Ellie trailed behind him. Mark felt as if he was once again being led by another foster parent. Sadness engulfed him, and another feeling he couldn’t explain.

CHAPTER 3

The morning sun peered through the window shimmering across the yellow wall paper bringing a sunny glow to the kitchen.

The sound of tape being ripped from cardboard boxes echoed through the empty house, as Ellie began carefully removing the crystal glassware, gently uncovering each piece from their newspaper surroundings.

Meticulously placing them onto the shelves she glanced out the window. A broad smile crossed her face as she watched Mark and Roy working together, cutting away the high weeds that surrounded the pond. After tossing the empty box aside, she placed her elbow on the sink resting her chin inside the palm of her hands. Seeing them together reminded her of her own father, who she hadn’t spoken to in months.

Although her family never approved of their marriage, saying he was no good, she saw something in him that no one else saw. Due to her strong love for him she chose him over them and sometime wondered if she had made the right decision. The last five years had been very difficult, but she was hoping the move to the country would leave the past behind and they could start life anew.

Standing, shaking her head from side to side, pleased at how the guys were getting along, she turned her attention back to unpacking, kicking the empty box across the floor before picking up another one. She quickly filled the vacant cabinets with her colorful dishes.

Just a few more boxes she thought as she pulled a chair over to reach the higher shelves. Climbing on the chair, she was eye level with the strawberry border that surrounded the yellow wallpaper. She ran her fingertips down the vines feeling the rough texture, noticing how modern and beautiful it was. She wondered why someone would take so much time in decorating, only to stay such a short time.

A chill washed over her, causing goose bumps to erupt on her arms. She felt a strange sensation of someone watching her. She quickly turned, scanning the room realizing she was alone. Ignoring her feelings she continued stacking the pots and pans inside the cupboard.

The air began to thicken and she felt an overwhelming sense of a presence fill the room. Her heart pounded as she stood frozen, afraid to turn around. She began rationalizing in her mind. Why am I feeling this way? After all, the guys are outside and I don’t believe in ghosts, she thought.

Taking a deep breath, gathering up her courage, she quickly spun around. Tossing her hand up across her chest she exhaled a sigh of relief at the sight of Roscoe sitting quietly on the floor staring up at her hoping for some attention.

She stepped down from the chair, kneeling down on one knee. Silly dog, you scared me half to death, she said, scratching behind his ears, standing up, wagging her finger at him. What are you doing in here anyway on such a beautiful day? You should be outside with the men getting some exercise you know. He panted wildly, perking his ears up, tilting his head to the side listening intently at her speech before slowly making his way back into the family room.

She grinned, relieved to have some company in the big empty house. Placing her hands on her hips, she looked around pleased at her accomplishments. I have got a lot done today, she thought. I think I could use a break, she said, a loud to herself, as she walked to the refrigerator and pulled out a pitcher of tea.

Sitting down at a small round table, sipping from her glass her thoughts drifted to the days ahead. Mark would be starting his new job at the beginning of next week, and with a new baby on the way, she was hoping the move was just what they needed and things would get better then. She felt sure of it.

Standing, she placed her empty glass on the sink, glancing out the window. The men were no longer at the pond. She could not see them anywhere, but could hear the faint sound of their voices in the distance. Wondering what they were up to, she decided to join them outside.

As she headed toward the door, she peeked her head around where Roscoe lay stretched across the family room floor enjoying a nap. Roscoe, boy, come on, let’s go outside for a while, come on! she yelled. He slowly raised his head peering at her through half open eyes, letting out a groan as he stretched out his legs lying back down ignoring her request. Okay, you lazy hound, stay inside and see if I care, she said, jokingly as she headed out the door, closing it behind her. Stepping out onto the porch a gust of warm air brushed against her face. She squinted her eyes to block the sun’s bright rays. She scanned the area looking for Mark, but could not locate him anywhere. She stepped from the porch making her way across the gravel drive and around to the front yard. The old run down house almost completely overtaken by weeds quickly captured her attention. Memories echoed from behind the broken shutters that dangled loosely from the windows. The rotten wood porch sank in under the weight of the bundled up belongings, tightly wrapped with tarps. She felt drawn to this mysterious place that brought her a sense of dread and sadness.

Hey, Ellie! yelled Mark, as he came up behind her. She flinched as she turned toward him.

Sorry, didn’t mean to scare you, are you okay? he asked.

I just didn’t hear you walk up behind me, that’s all, she replied, turning back to the house her eyes filled with curiosity. Where is Roy? she asked, in a low tone.

Oh, he had to go get something from his truck, he’ll be along shortly, he answered. I thought you were going to be working inside, and away from this heat, he added, patting her belly.

I just needed some fresh air, she answered, her eyes never leaving the house. Look at that old place, who do you think lived here?

Well, Ellie, here’s the man to ask, said Mark, watching as Roy made his way through the yard toward them.

What’s that? asked Roy, as he drew near.

Ellie was just wondering who that old house belonged to, answered Mark.

Roy stood staring in the distance. Perspiration trickled from underneath his old faded cap, streaming down the sides of his face wetting his gray sideburns. His eyes seemed lost in the mass of wrinkles that surrounded them. He hesitated before answering. Been empty for quite some time, just an old eyesore I say, needs to be torn down, if I had anything to do with it, it would be, he said quickly turning away. Well, I don’t know about you two, but I could sure use a cold drink right now.

That sounds good, replied Mark, "how