She Took It All

She Took It All

happyhugo

Copyright(C) 07/24/11

 63,365 words

 Romance, Children,  

Readers score  8.21

John, feeling smothered by his rich wife, is
finally divorced. This gives him a chance to 
spread his wings and after a couple of years to get
custody of his son. A new woman and two little 
girls become part of his life. This is the story of 
his family and his life over the next ten years.

I met her
she asked for a date
I gave it to her
We had the date
She wanted sex
I was willing
She had to be engaged
I gave her the ring
Marriage was indicated
I gave her my vows
It was time for a baby
I gave her a boy
Happiness for a while
I gave her my best
It was not enough--
I’ll give her that
She asked for freedom
I gave that as well
She took it all
It left me drained until
now it has all come back
The respect that had
slowly eroded away
_____________________

Chapter One

I opened the registered letter after signing for it. It was from the family court clerk requesting my presence before a judge two weeks hence at 9 a.m. on a Tuesday morning. The purpose was for a hearing about a change of custody. Maybe, just maybe, I might be getting back a little of what had been taken away.

---

I parked in the driveway of my former home. Elizabeth had kept the place in fine shape. I could see the pool sparkling out at the side of the house. Not for me to go in through the front door, so I went in by the garage and the entrance into the kitchen.

Madie looked up and dropped the pot she was washing, rushing to me. I was always a favorite and a friend. It was not just a hug I received, but a kiss as well. She wasn’t old enough to be my mother, but I loved her as if she were. “Land’s sake, Mr. Rheingold, you do startle a body.  It has been forever since I've seen you.”

“I know, Madie, but I haven’t forgotten you. Quick, tell me, what is going on?”

“Simple. The Missus has a new fellow and wants to go to Paris with him. They plan on being gone for six months. She knows it wouldn't be right for me and Will to watch over the boy for that long. What you fought for is finally coming true. She wants you to take Jimmy to live with you.”

“I suspected that might be it. It is still all about her isn’t it?” There was a noise of someone behind me. I turned to face my ex-wife.

“You’re still bitter, aren’t you John?  Well, I 'm not surprised. Maybe a little bitterness will help you get over me. Personally, I think you have no reason to be bitter. I picked you up in college and you will have to admit I gave you your start in life.”

“Maybe, but in so doing, you stepped on my heart and ground it beneath your feet. Really though, I was just making an observation. I'm over you. Tell me what your plans are before we get to court?  I want to know if I am going to need my attorney for this.”

“You don’t.  I’m handing you the custody of Jimmy. You do still want him living with you, don’t you?”

“I do.  This is just so sudden. For the winter vacation, you wouldn’t let him come to me and would only let me see him for two days when I came here to visit. Why the big change?”

“I guess I can tell you. I’ve fallen deeply in love. Jimmy resents my new interest and has been very difficult. I suppose you could say Brian gave me a choice, him or Jimmy.” 

“Where is Jimmy?  I’d like to see him.”

Elizabeth looked at Madie.  “Do you know where my son is?”

“Of course.  He always tells me where he will be. He took some food down to a house at the end of the street. Mrs. Waters and her two children are being evicted today.  They are his friends and he is worried he won’t ever see them anymore.”

“I didn’t say you could let Jimmy take some poor trash our food.  I want you to stop letting Jimmy do this. I don’t believe it. Someone is being evicted on this street. The neighborhood is certainly going down hill.”

“Yes, Miss.”  My ex turned back to the living room.  Madie rolled her eyes at me.

“I still have a couple of hours before court.  Tell me where I can find Jimmy.”

“It is the little bungalow on this side at the end of the street and the last place before the city playground. If Jimmy isn't there, he will be at the playground with two little girls.  He is their protector.”

“I’ll find him.  Is there anything else I can take to the woman?”

“I’ll bet she would like some hot coffee. I’ll put it in a carafe for you. Here are some sweet buns to go with the coffee. I think her power was turned off so I’m sure she’ll appreciate something hot.”

Madie put the hot coffee into a camping thermos and the buns in a bag. There was a full dozen of these.  The end of the street was eleven houses away.  It had been two years since the divorce and I wanted to walk by my neighbors, some of them who had been my friends. I guess it was too early for anyone to be out, for I didn’t see anyone. 

When I approached the last house, I could see my son sitting on the front steps with two others, both girls. One looked to be his age of eleven and the other was smaller.  He glanced up at me and ran toward me screaming, “That’s my Dad,” and ran into my arms. The two girls hung back.

Little gentleman that he had been trained for, he introduced me to Kathy and Sandy Waters.  “How long are you going to be here?  It has been so long since I have seen you. Can I go home with you this time?”

“Maybe you can, son.  Your mother is considering it.” The two girls looked dejected and started edging away toward the playground.

“Dad, Kathy and Sandy wanted me to go with them to say good-bye to their friends at the playground. They are having to move today and wanted me with them.”

“Go with them if you wish. Kathy is your Mom home?”

“Yes, she is using the last of the hot water for a shower.  The electricity got turned off.”

“Is it okay if I go in and talk to her?”

“Sure, just open the door.” Curious, she asked, “What do you have in the bag?”

“Buns. Would you like some?”

A shy yes came forth. The three kids took a couple each and went on down to the playground. I turned and went up to the steps into the house. I opened the door and found the kitchen almost empty with no chairs or table. I set the coffee and buns on the counter and advanced into the next room.

Near the far wall across the room, there was a woman bent over poking into a box, which was sitting on the floor. Her back was to me and I don’t think she heard me enter. I was in a quandary.  Could I escape back into the kitchen before she knew I had seen her?  She being naked, that is.

I tried. I wasn’t successful.  She screamed and then told me to get out or she would call the cops. I ignored her outburst and started talking over her.  “I have coffee if you would like a cup.  Your daughter Kathy said to come right in. You might put some clothes on before you do, though.” I grinned as she whirled and disappeared into another room.

It was just a few minutes before she was facing me. “Who are you?”

“Jimmy’s dad.  He and your girls are down to the playground.  Madie said you were moving today and I brought coffee and some buns.  The kids took most of them.”

“Let me find cups. Yes, we're moving, but not by choice. The sheriff is coming about noon.  We are going to a shelter for the homeless.  Thank God, we found a room there today.  Otherwise, we would be sleeping in my old car.”

“Up against it are you?”

“You could say that. I begged my landlord to let me stay here until school was out or we would have been out a month ago. He has been pretty understanding, but he depends on the rent. Jimmy has been really nice.  He even brought us milk and cereal for breakfast this morning.”

“So what happened to put you in such a hole?”

“Ex-husband won’t or can’t pay child support. I lost my job as an accountant. My ex works as a carpenter, but it doesn’t seem as if it is steady. I’m not sure if it is him or the men he works for where the problem lies. Eventually I’ll find work and we’ll be okay.”

The woman was as attractive clothed as she was without.  Her hair was a dark gold, her features regular, lips maybe a little wide and full and her shape, well no need to go there.  I had seen it all.  I felt it was time to apologize for walking in on this woman. “I’m sorry about seeing you in such dishabille.”

“Are you really?  Actually, you have the word dishabille wrong.  That means partially undressed. I do believe I was totally naked.”

“I do believe you were too. Can we change the subject?  How about your family?  Can’t they help you out?”

“My father is helping all he can, but he lives so far away. Mom calls and tells me to keep my spirits up. I have to, and I do act it for the girls. They feel terrible about being so poor. This last year Jimmy has been their friend and he shares his toys and games. Both girls have had the use of his laptop and he has taught them a lot.”

“He’s down here often?”

“All the time. I think it is because he is so lonely at home.”

“You mean because his mother doesn’t pay any attention to him?”

“You said that, I didn’t.”

“Um yes, I did didn’t I? Look I have to be in court in a half hour. Can I come back and be with you when the sheriff comes?  It might make your daughters feel better.  I will even take you all out to dinner.  It may just be postponing the inevitable, but you've been such a good friend to Jimmy, I’d like to do something.”

I paused and then grinned. “I’ll even knock on the door this time.”

“Was it that bad what you saw of me?”

This time I looked into her eyes.  “No. No, it wasn’t bad at all, but I only had a glimpse before I retreated.  I didn't want to embarrass you." I escaped out the door. I ran down to the playground.

“Jimmy, stay here with Kathy, Sandy, and their mother. I’ll come by and pick you up later.” I really had to beat it to my car and I made the court just as the judge was entering his chambers where we were to meet.

One thing about Elizabeth, she could manipulate most anyone she came in contact with. I knew this. Hadn’t she done this to me for nine long years? The judge was no exception. The only question was who I would have to look after Jimmy if I was granted the custody of my son.

When questioned, “Your Honor, I have just this morning interviewed a lady who I believe would accept employment to care for my son while I am working. She knows him already and is very fond of him.”

The looks were daggers I was receiving from Elizabeth and she stuck in her two cents by asking, “Is this the woman who is being evicted?”

“Yes she is. I understand Jimmy has spent more time with her and her two children than he has spent in his own home since you and I were divorced. Madie, your housekeeper told me. She has been a second mother to him while you weren’t always there for him.”

The judge asked Elizabeth, “Do you believe your ex-husband will care for his son in a way that is good for the boy?”

“Yes, I do. I firmly believe it or I wouldn’t have considered giving him sole custody.”

“Mr. Rheingold, if I can be assured of him being under a suitable woman’s care, I can assign you custody.  When can I meet this person?”

“I think I can arrange it by three this afternoon.”

“Good. Be here in my office at that time. We will discuss it then.”

The only thing Elizabeth had to say to me was, “You’ve changed, John.  You’re much more decisive than you used to be.”

“Maybe dear, I had a chance to grow new wings.  Wings that were not always being clipped by you.  I’ll have the judge call you after I meet with him.  Or should I have him call your attorney with his decision?”

“Have him call me.”

---

I wanted custody of my son and I was determined to have him with me. I was figuring out how to enlist Jimmy in helping me. I decided I would play it straight or nearly so.

When I arrived back at the Waters’ residence, an old gentleman was introduced as the landlord. He was waiting to take possession of his property when Mrs. Waters was evicted.  I got into a conversation with him. “May I rent this house just as it is as soon as you receive the keys back from Mrs. Waters?  I’ll only need it for a week I think, but if I pay you up front, maybe the second week as well.”

“Sure, I can do that. Why though?”

“Mrs. Waters is a friend of mine and may not be able to move her stuff for awhile.”

“Rent it as long as you want as long as I get my money.”  I made out a check for two weeks’ rent.  Jimmy was standing with me while I was doing the negotiating.  He was puzzled.  The two girls and their mother were inside just waiting.

The sheriff did arrive and formally evicted Mrs. Waters.  When he started to move their possessions, I said I had arranged to store them for the next two weeks and would see about having them removed at that time. The landlord verified what I was saying. He left soon after the sheriff with the  check I wrote in his pocket.

I went inside.  “Come on ladies, Jimmy and I are taking you all out to lunch.  I have something I want to discuss with everyone.”

It took an hour to convince Mrs. Waters to work as my housekeeper. She would be moving to my home.  I think it was the kids who convinced her. Her children were overjoyed to think that they would still have Jimmy to hang out with in his new home.  Sandy was especially happy about the change that would keep her with Jimmy.

Jimmy of course had been concerned he would have to return to the days when he would be alone most of the time.  Especially if he was moving to live with me and not knowing anyone.

Elizabeth was waiting at the courthouse when we arrived to meet with the judge. I knew she was curious about Mrs. Waters. I introduced the two women.  I couldn’t give Mrs. Waters’ name because I hadn't heard it. 

“Shelly is my name. Jimmy still calls me Mrs. Waters and that is why John doesn’t know it. You have a great child Ms. Rheingold.  I love him a lot.” Elizabeth wrinkled her nose.

Shelly gave the judge a short bio of herself. “I was married. Divorced, but still have some love for my former husband.  He is ordered to pay child support, but is unemployed so he is behind in payments. I became unemployed and am behind on my rent.  Mr. Rheingold has offered me the position as his housekeeper to keep his house and care for his son while he is working. 

“I have two girls who met and became friends with Jimmy Rheingold and that is how I know him and more recently met Mr. Rheingold. This will solve some of my problems in providing for my family and hopefully do the same for Mr. Rheingold.”

Shelly gave the judge the name of her former employer and the judge called to see what that person would have to say about her.  He listened and when he hung up, he immediately signed the order giving me custody of Jimmy.

Elizabeth had a few words for Jimmy when we came out of the judge’s office. I think she was looking at our son with opened eyes.  I suspect he had been growing up without her really knowing him, even though she was the one in charge.

I had a few words for her, telling her that although Jimmy would not be living with her, he was still her son and she was still his mother.

“Thank you, John. I won’t forget our son.  I will be gone for a while, but I will think about him often. I’ll think about you as well. I guess we are from two different cultures and never should have been married.”

“We were happy for awhile. I can’t say I regret being married to you, but I knew long before we divorced that our marriage wasn’t working.  I think now I am happier than I was when I was married to you. I hope you find happiness as well.”

“I’m sure I will. I will see both of you when I get back from Europe in the winter. My plans are that I’m leaving in two days. While you are in town, you may have the use of the guest room at the house. Jimmy of course can stay in his own room until you leave.

“I’ll be going out tonight so make yourself at home.”

This had been my home. I certainly knew my way around in it.  It didn't feel like home though and hadn’t for quite some time.

Shelly and the kids got into my car and I transported us back to what had been her house.  It was now being rented by me.  I went inside. The beds had gone the way of the kitchen set and had been repossessed by the rental store yesterday.  The family had slept on the floor last night.

I looked around me.  “This won’t do at all. Jimmy, you let the two girls sleep in your bed tonight.  You can sleep on one of the couches.  I’ll crash in with Madie and Will. They won’t mind.  Shelly you get the guest room.”

“Oh no, I can’t do that.”

“Sure you can. Elizabeth said I could use the guest room and I’m having it occupied.  She probably won’t even notice. If she does, well she owes me big time. It will be just for tonight anyway.  Have you met Madie and Will yet?”

“Not yet, but Jimmy has told me how great they are.”

“They are just as great as he has said.  We will go out and have dinner somewhere and then we’ll all go in and see Madie.  She’ll think it fun to put one over on Elizabeth. We will have breakfast in the kitchen and then we will get ready to move things to my place. It is a seven-hour drive.”

“How are you moving, Jimmy?”

“I’ll be renting a U-Haul and hiring someone to drive it.”

“I can drive it if it isn’t bigger than a twenty-footer. I used to drive some for my father.”

“There you go. As of seven tomorrow morning you are employed as my truck driver.”

The family dressed as best they could and I took them to a mid-sized restaurant. The two girls had never been to as nice a place as this and were looking all around at the people.  Jimmy of course took them in hand and kind of led them through the meal.

Elizabeth’s car was gone when I took us all into the kitchen where Madie was finishing her chores for the day.  She fell right into my plans and thought it a great joke on her employer. The little girls were in awe when they saw where they were sleeping in Jimmy’s bed.

Shelly said, “His bed is big enough and they are all tired. Let Jimmy sleep in the same bed with them. It will be okay. Is the bed in the guest room the same size?”

“Yes it is.”

“Well, I don’t see any reason you can’t sleep in bed with me. Just don’t be getting any ideas though.”

“I think I will be taking you up on the offer and don’t you be getting any ideas either.” We stood there grinning at each other. I thought, “Not tonight, but maybe someday.”

I’m sure Madie and Will were going to be sharing a laugh when they retired.

I was rudely awakened sometime during the night.  Elizabeth was shaking me. “John, I didn’t tell you to bring your whore into my home with you. Tell her to get out.”

“Elizabeth, get out of this room.  You offered me the use of it, so in essence it is mine for the duration. Go out into the living room and I will be right out. We’ll talk about it. The woman is tired so let her get some rest.”  My ex whirled and left the room, not even closing the door.

Shelly whispered, “We can leave if you want.”

“Go back to sleep.  I can handle this.” I closed the door behind me as I left.

Elizabeth was fuming when I reached the living room. I attacked. “We were sleeping before you woke us up. I haven't been in bed with a woman for a while, but tonight it was just for rest.  If you must know, Jimmy is sleeping with those two sweet little girls in his bed as well. We will all be leaving in the morning.

“Now I’m telling you not to go into his room and make a scene. You are his mother and believe it or not, he loves you. You haven't shown much affection to him lately and the jury is out in his mind whether you love him or not. He feels as if you are dumping him on me.  Oh, he loves me and is glad he is coming to live with me, but he feels abandoned just the same.”

“He shouldn’t feel that way.  How are you going to move his stuff anyway?”

“I’ll lease a truck and Shelly is going to be driving it for me.  She doesn’t have much but that will be loaded on the truck as well.”

“She’s driving a truck?  What kind of person are you getting mixed up with now?  Have you lost your senses?  Why are you exposing Jimmy to someone like her and the two girls?”

“Elizabeth, those people as you call them, are my kind of people. Sad to say, I forgot that for a while. I am forever thankful that you asked for a divorce, which freed me and made me open my eyes to what I was when I was married to you.  Looking back, I don’t think I was even a man. I was so enamored by your looks and your wealth, it was easy to be seduced. 

“You know what? I was bored the last few years I was with you and I didn’t know why.  It was because I wasn’t being productive. Every person should be productive. I learned how to make contacts in the business world from listening to your friends about what they did and how they did it. One day I woke up and knew the easy life wasn’t for me.  Those rich  people might not have shown it, but in one way or another, they were all productive. I have tried to emulate them and I have succeeded.

“I’m an up and coming man in the business world I now live in.  I am respected more than I ever was when I was your husband.  It feels wonderful.”

“What a bunch of bullshit. You loved being with me every minute.”

“At first, maybe, but it was always all about you and your wants. I gave in to you to hide the guilt I felt about myself for living your life.  Eventually there wasn’t anymore in me to give. When you asked for a divorce, that is when my life began.” 

“I don’t believe you.”

“Believe what you want. Look, this conversation is senseless. I’m going back to bed.  As I said, I’ll be out of here in the morning.”

“John, what about Jimmy? I gave you custody, but he is still mine.”

“Jimmy is your son and maybe if you showed him love he would return it.  I am not turning him against you.  I want to have him grow up and someday with the values I’ll be teaching him, you will be the winner.  I’ll teach him to love you in spite of how you treat him.”

“You are a hard man, John, and different than you were before.”

“Yes, I guess I am.  Goodnight, Elizabeth.”

Shelly was still awake when I crawled back into bed. “I heard you raise your voice.”

“I did. Nothing has changed though. We are still headed for my hometown as soon as we wind things up here and get the truck rented and loaded. Are you sure you want to drive it?”

“Yes, of course.”

Shelly was in Jimmy’s room helping him pack his things. She had just said, “Take only what you will be using in your new home.  Leave some of everything here, for you will be coming back and staying with your mother sometimes after she comes back from Paris.” 

“I won’t either.  She doesn’t want me.”

“Oh, I’m sure she will. I suspect she will miss you more than she thinks she will.”

Just then, Elizabeth entered. “This should be Madie’s job in packing Jimmy’s things.” Jimmy looked at his mother and bugged out leaving the two adults alone.

“Well, she is watching my children for a minute and I wasn’t busy. My things are all packed and John wants to get to the rental place and pick up a truck. He wants to be all loaded tonight and we will be starting early tomorrow morning.” Shelly kept sorting clothes.

“You know Mrs. Rheingold, many of these things will be too small for Jimmy in six months.  Will you be purchasing new things for him when he comes to stay with you, or shall I send clothes with him?”

“I guess you had better send things with him.”  With a little bitterness, “You are pretty much taking over with Jimmy, aren’t you?”

“Yes, I am.  John has hired me to take care of the boy.”

“Are you going to be living with him?”

“Same house, yes. John has a small apartment in the back where he will be staying.  I am to have the main house for the children and myself. It has three bedrooms and the other only has one.  The previous owners used it for the husband’s mother.”

“Convenient for you isn’t it.  I mean for a man to give up his home for someone with a bunch of kids who he has just met.”

“Yes, isn’t it?  In reality, John has listened to Jimmy and what Jimmy has wanted.  The boy did not want to give up my girls.  This wouldn’t work out very well if I had the small apartment to sleep in and John had the three children in his home. We agreed this was a much better arrangement.”

“Why doesn’t he just sleep with you?”

“It wouldn’t be right. John wants Jimmy and yes, my two as well, to know right from wrong. John has also agreed that my ex-husband, Ronnie, can sleep on the couch in the smaller apartment when he comes to visit our children.

“You know this is going to be so convenient for me. Ronnie only lives about forty miles from John’s house. My in-laws are even closer, so the kids can see their grandparents almost anytime they want to. When you come to visit Jimmy, Jimmy will bunk in with his father and you can have your son’s room.”

“That will be so cozy, won’t it?  All of us sleeping in the little house all together.”

“It could be, Mrs. Rheingold, it could be.  I really do want to thank you for letting us stay here last night.  May I ask for you to extend your invitation by one more night?”

“I don’t seem to have much say in the matter, do I?” Elizabeth thought a minute. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean that. Of course you may.  There are more rooms here you can stay in if you prefer for your children.”

“No need, they will be fine as they were last night.  You have a beautiful home here.”

“Yes, well it is, and I’m proud of it.  Sad to say, it didn't appear to be good enough for John. He told me last night he was bored living here.  He has some kind of cultural issues I don't understand.  I gave him everything.”

“That might have been the problem between you two.  I only met John yesterday, but he seems to be a person that feels if he has something, he should have had to earn it. I feel the same way myself.  Right now, though I don’t have much, but it is because I don’t have a chance to earn anything.”

Shelly kept working and turned to face Elizabeth when she finished packing the last suitcase. Elizabeth had been just watching and saying nothing. Shelly took up the conversation again.

“I shouldn’t say I don’t have a chance.  Yesterday I didn’t, but today I do thanks to John. John has hired me and having an honest job to provide for your family, makes a person feel so rich.” Suddenly, Elizabeth left the room ending the verbal exchange.

An hour later John drove the sixteen foot U-Haul around the circle drive and backed up to the four-car garage. All of Jimmy’s toys were stored in one stall.  There were bicycles of about every type and description.

“You may take three of them. Your skis and equipment can go.  I don’t think you will need your kayak.”

“How about taking my four-wheeler?”

“I don’t think so. If I think you will be using it, I can have Will send it out by truck.  You’ll be in touch with him and Madie about every week.  They love you like a son.”

“More than Mother does, that’s for sure.”

“Don’t talk against your mother. She loves you.  She just doesn’t show it.”

“You should know all about that, Dad.  Mom still claims she still loves you, but it is so false. One day she said this when I was crying about missing you so much.  An hour later she left with that asshole she is going to Paris with.”

“That is something between her and me. I still love her a little myself.  After all, she gave me you.  Twice, as a matter of fact. You had better watch your language, son.  Do you want your friends talking like you just did?”

Shelly came out and said as soon as I had Jimmy’s things loaded, she would drive the truck down the street to her former home to load up her belongings.  I let her drive.  She backed into her driveway perfectly. This relieved some of my concerns about her abilities.

Her old car was still in the driveway behind the truck.  Her landlord came around the corner about then.  “What are you going to do with your old car?” he asked Shelly.

“Junk it, I guess.  I was about to call a yard to come look at it.”

“They won’t give you more than fifty bucks for it.  Tell you what, Mrs. Waters, I’ll allow you two hundred against your back rent.” That still leaves you owing me $2,000. That you can pay me when you can.”

I couldn’t believe this.  The landlord was trusting Shelly to pay when she was moving almost five hundred miles away. “I will pay and thank you for allowing so much on the car. I will pay you interest on what I owe, too.  I promise.”

“I have no doubt, because your word has always been good. I really am sorry about you leaving.” The old man was helping carry out the packing boxes. 

When we were almost done, the old guy took the kids down to the park to buy them a good-bye ice cream.  “John, I don’t suppose you could lend me what I owe could you?  I hate to make him wait. He really is a nice person and has been so good to us.  You can deduct half my wages until it is paid.”

I guess if the landlord was willing to trust her with living so far away, I could trust her living at the same address with me. I walked back up to my former home and got my checkbook.  Shelly gave me his name and I made out the check for her to give to him when he came back with the kids.

The old person looked at the check and there were tears in his eyes.  “Thank you so much.  I really did need this pretty badly, but I knew you didn’t have it. Bless you, Mrs. Waters.”

---

Elizabeth usually made Jimmy dress for dinner, but as she wasn’t there when Madie had it ready, I said it wasn’t necessary.  We decided we would eat in the kitchen with Madie and Will.  The kids got silly relating things that had happened when they were on the playground.  This had been going on for a little time, when I looked up and saw Elizabeth watching us from the dining room.

She had come in and we were too involved to hear her.  Her place was set in the formal dining room as usual. “Join us Elizabeth. This is Jimmy’s way of saying good-bye to Madie and Will. You won’t be seeing him for awhile either, so he can say good-bye to you at the same time.”

Madie set another place at the end of the table.  My ex-wife was quiet. In fact, we all were at first with her here to put a damper on the gathering. With three juveniles though, it didn’t take long to get back to having a good time again. Shelly broke loose, by asking what I did for work.

“I really don’t know how to explain what I do.  There are several small things and pieces that put together make up a whole.” I didn't know if I wanted to explain fully, so I paused.

“I know some things about what Dad does. He owns part of a convenience store and he owns part of a pig farm.” All attention was on me.

“That’s true, but only part of it.”  Again I stopped.

Kathy looked at me with a wrinkled nose.  “A pig farm. Ew!”

This made me laugh. “Kids, it isn’t that bad.  That is what is on each end of what I do for work.  In the middle is where it's interesting, to me anyway.

“When I moved to where I live now, I knew I had to find something to do. I was in this particular little store and was stocking up my pantry. I overheard the two owners figuring out how to survive against the bigger grocery stores.

“I took a walk up and down their aisles and could see there were seriously under-stocked. I made them the proposal to put in more stock in return for a percentage.  At the time, I didn’t have anything else to do, so I worked right along beside them and learned the business.  It wasn’t long before they had to hire two more workers for they stayed open three more hours to catch the late evening trade and the early morning patrons on their way to work.

“Remember, I went to college to get an MBA many years ago.” (I was talking to Elizabeth now.) “I identified several ways to better their bottom line. One of which was to capitalize on out of, or near out of date goods that were sold in the store. About half of just the bakery products were leaving the store one or two days before the ‘sell by date’ and going back to the warehouse or distribution center to be destroyed.

“I thought to myself, why couldn’t these goods be resold at a discount as long as they were under the sell by date? I talked to the store owners and we started a pilot project not far from the store which I’m renting. This place was a former factory and had a large office and a loading dock.

“Our own store got credit for goods returned and the bakeries we dealt with didn’t have the problem of disposing of the returns. Of course, we had a lot of out of date items as well. It wasn't long before the discount store became an outlet for cheap food.  This is a depressed area with many people out of work so we were actually providing a service.

“This did cut into our first-run line of product, but overall it balanced out and between the two stores, our bottom line is still better than before. Sadly to say, at first we were left with a mountain of un-salable product. Most usually, this would go to the landfill. What a waste.

“I went searching for someplace where it could be disposed of and make a little money on it. I found it at a pig farm.  One not very large, but with the dream of getting bigger. The laws that regulate a pig farm and what they can be fed are as stringent as those of what humans are fed. The owner of the farm was willing to take the out of date returns if he could still work within the laws.  It took some doing but he figured it out with my help. The biggest problem is removing the packaging in which encased the bread and doughnuts. All those twisty-ties, boxes and wrappings have to be removed.

“I asked a couple of homeless women if they wanted some doughnuts.  All they could eat, in fact.  They were willing.  I then showed them what my problem was.  The loaves of bread proved to be easy.  A pair of scissors cut just below the tie and you shook the bread out, throwing the wrapper into the trash.

“Then we automated it by having scissors fixed so they were stationary, opening and closing sixty times a minute. The worker holding the top and the bottom in each hand guided the loaf into the scissors. When they got used to the motion needed, they could do twenty loaves a minute. That is a lot of bread.

“Bagged items such as rolls, cookies or doughnuts worked the same way.  Individual wrapped items took more ingenuity and at least two operations. However, one way or another, we solved each problem.  Think of all the calories in a doughnut or pie?  It was worth it to the farmer.”

“How does he feed this stuff?”

“He purchases it by the ton. When it gets it to the farm, he mixes it with sugar beet pulp or some high protein feed and makes pellets out of it. He figures he saves 20% on each ton of pellets he feeds to his hogs.”

Elizabeth questioned, “You don’t get tons of waste food out of your one store, do you?”

“No.  When we had our system in place, I went to all the stores nearby, including the large grocery chains and looked for their suppliers. I have made deals with 90% of them to take this out of date food off their hands. I neglected to say I sort out the product that is still good and if the packages are undamaged, they are sold in our discount store.  Each evening what is left is transported to food kitchens all over the city.”

“Jimmy said you owned part of the pig farm. How did that come about?”

“Blackmail.” I grinned as I said this.  “Seriously, I asked the farmer if I couldn’t buy in, mentioning at the time that there were other farmers in the area that would take what I had to offer.”

“You couldn’t have earned much money from this operation in the short time since you were divorced from me.”

“No, Elizabeth, I still have some left from the divorce settlement. It was you who bought it for me.”  I thought my ex would be pissed at my revelation.  Instead, she did not say anything and I went on to tell of the people who I got to work for me in my operation.

“Most are poor people willing to work for minimum wage and they take some of their pay in discounted food.  All are thankful and I have a waiting list of those wanting to replace any who leave. I am fair and I am liberal in my dealings. I can afford to be.  Best of all, I’m busy and productive at the same time.

“Paperwork is almost in place to make this middle operation a non-profit corporation. When we get it approved, I can look for grants from different entities to integrate other types of green savings into this corporation. By showing it works in a for-profit environment I have one step up for success.”

“Where did you get so intelligent?” This was my ex-wife speaking.

“I think, Elizabeth, I have always been fairly intelligent. If you remember, I never embarrassed you in front of your rich friends even though I was not much more than a paid gigolo. I have always been a fast read and kept up on any topics for discussion that might come up when I was with your rich friends. 

“Don’t forget, it was I who tutored you all through college so you could at least get a passing grade while you were partying. Anyway, all these things I read about to keep you from being embarrassed by me, has stuck in my mind and has been extraordinarily useful after our divorce.”

“Yes, well I’m glad you found some way to entertain yourself. I worried about you and the only contact we had is when you kept asking Jimmy to go off with you for God only knew where.  I had to protect him the best way I knew how.”

“Thank you for worrying about me, but you needn’t have.”

“Maybe. I have your address and Jimmy will be hearing from me quite often.  I wouldn’t be leaving him with you, but Brian may decide to take up temporary residence in a villa somewhere.”

“You will keep in touch with your attorney won’t you?  If Jimmy gets sick or injured in someway, I would think you would want to know as soon as possible.”

“I can do that.  Good idea.”  She said this as if it was the first good idea I had ever had.

Shelly started marshaling the kids ready for bed.  “Showers everyone.  We will be leaving early in the morning. Madie said she would fix us something light for breakfast.  We will stop somewhere about nine for pancakes or eggs. Now who wants to be first to ride in the truck? You have to take turns. I can have one at time with me.”  Sandy, the youngest, drew the long straw and would ride with her mother to start.

I walked into the living room with Elizabeth behind me.  “You will make sure Jimmy says goodbye to me in the morning won’t you?”

“Yes, but it might mean more to him if you were up to see us off.”

“John, you know I can’t believe you and I were ever married. You are so different. I don’t know you at all.”

“It could be you didn’t take the time to know the real me. You were too busy trying to make me into something I was not.  I went along thinking you were what I wanted, but one day I grew up. Elizabeth this is all on my head, you are the same as you have always been.”

Elizabeth stared at me.  Then she smiled.  “I taught you one thing John.  That is how to couch a less than complimentary remark in pleasant words. I guess we are who we are. You just did it to me again and that is to remind me why I wanted you to marry me those many years ago. Tonight, when you crawl into bed with that woman, I’m going to be wishing it were I.  Good night John.”

Elizabeth was up in the morning to see Jimmy off.  She hugged him to her with tears in her eyes. “I’m going to miss you so much. You’re my little man going off on an adventure.”

“No I’m not, Mom.  I’m just going to live with my father.” He looked up at her and saw the tears. “Mom, I am going to miss you too. You will write to me, won’t you?  I want to hear all about your travels.”  This just about made his mother’s day.

Shelly and Sandy drove off in the truck.  Kathy and Jimmy wanted me to get going or we would lose them. I took time to hug Madie and shake Will’s hand. “I will be seeing you in a few months, is that right Elizabeth?”

“Yes.”  She looked a little sad as I slid behind the wheel of my car.  Jimmy looked out the rear window and waved at his mother.

We caught up to the truck within a few minutes.  I let Shelly set the pace and we hit the thruway and sped up.  It was two hours later and we had several exits to go before we would be turning off for breakfast.  We were within fifteen minutes of our exit when I noticed a car traveling alongside the truck.  Then a man hung out the side and I could see him rap the door panel to get Shelly’s attention.

I called Sandy who had Shelly’s phone and asked what was going on. “Mom says those guys are making indecent gestures, whatever that is. She wants to know what she should do.”

“Tell her to pay no attention to them.  Get off at the next exit as planned.  I’m right behind you.  I’ll take care of them if they get off at the same time.”

“Mom says okay.”  The driver of the car was playing games.  They passed her and swung in front of the truck.  They then slowed down so Shelly had to swing out to pass them.  They sped up then and let her swing back into her travel lane.

Signs came up for the exit.  Shelly put on her blinkers to turn off.  The car slowed down and pulled in front of me between the truck and us.  “Shelly, pull into the first fast food place.  Stay in the truck with the doors locked.”  The three vehicles slowed and stopped.  I told Kathy and Jimmy to lock the doors when I got out. 

 The two men in the car ahead of me were out and striding up to the truck door.  The driver was one big man, and the man who had pounded on his door was a smaller person.  I was right behind them when they came up to Shelly’s door. “What’s going on?”

“Back off  Dude, we just want to get acquainted with the babe driving the truck.”

“Not going to happen.  That’s my wife and we’re traveling together.”

“So, you’d let your wife handle the truck while you’re tooling along in your little old foreign jobby?”

“That’s right.”

“Wimp.”  Right then he headed for me. Maybe I did not look dangerous, but I had taken several courses in defense back when I had too much time on my hands. I bowed slightly, but he didn’t recognize the move. I balanced and as he came within range, I whirled and my left Boston connected about where his kidney was located. I came around facing him and advanced.  I clipped him as hard as I could with my right just behind his jaw and under the ear.  He went down. 

The big man stood there.  I don’t think he appeared as intelligent as the one on the ground, but he made a wiser choice. He listened to me.  “Get that piece of shit into your vehicle and get out of here pronto. Just so you know how lucky you both are, the woman you called ‘Babe’ is a trainer for the Black Ops.  She just came home from Iraq. She taught me that move.”

Five minutes later, the car with the two men disappeared around the corner of the diner. We could see them headed for the on ramp in the distance. “Let’s get something to eat, I’m hungry.”  Jimmy looked on me with pride. Kathy came up and took my hand and Sandy took the other one.

“You said you would handle any problem we had with them.  You should have added, with dispatch!”

The rest of the journey was without incident.  It was seven that evening when we turned into the driveway of my home.  The kids thought we would never reach here. They each had taken turns riding in the truck, twice. After the last stop, they guessed they would ride in the car with me.  I offered to change places with Shelly, but she declined and was having a ball.

When I left home, I was unaware I would be returning with anyone, so the beds had to be made up.  I let Sandy and Kathy pick which room they wanted to sleep in.  Shelly took my room, of course.  Jimmy had a room that overlooked a small brook and when I told him I occasionally saw a deer come down to drink, he was happy to have that one.

This was farming country and we were on the outskirts, the city lying off to the south six miles. My convenience store was about four and a half miles away. Where we processed the out of date items was nearer the center of town in the old manufacturing section. I explained all of this to Shelly as we prepared everyone for bed.  She offered to come into the back apartment and make my bed, but I said I could handle it.

“John, would you mind if I took time to call my ex-in-laws?  They will be thrilled we will be living so near.”

“Call them. Is your ex-husband living with them?”

“I expect he is.  He should know that Sandy and Kathy are here.  He misses them.”

“Let him know.  I know how he must feel. I missed Jimmy when I moved away from Elizabeth.”  I went to ready my room while she was dialing.

When I returned, I caught just the end of her conversation with her ex-husband.  “Ronnie, it is a job keeping house and caring for Jimmy Rheingold. John will not be sleeping with me and he has his own quarters in the back. I owe him for my back rent anyway and I have to pay that off before I get a different job.”  She paused.  “You can come over to see Sandy and Kathy.  You can meet John then.  Goodnight Ronnie.” Shelly looked a little exasperated.

“Problems?”

“Not really. About like your ex-wife when she saw you and I in the same bed.  Jealous, that is all.”

“How do you feel about that?”

“I think I’m a little glad he is jealous, but I’m sad too. Sad that we aren’t still together for the kids’ sake.”

“What happened between you two if you don’t mind telling me? Did he cheat on you?”

“No, there was no cheating by either of us.  There were several little things. I guess I nagged him about him not looking for work harder than he did after he got laid off. I was working and sometimes he took money we didn’t have and went and got drunk. Not often, but it always triggered an argument.

“He hated doing the housework and I was on him all the time about not helping out more.  I think he still loves me and I know I still love him some. Anyway, I am glad he is where he can see the kids. Let’s watch the news to calm down and then I am going to bed.  Just think this morning I was more than 400 miles away.”

Twenty-five minutes after the news came on Shelly was asleep leaning against me.  I was tired myself. As gently as I could, I laid her down on the couch and covered her with a light blanket.  I could have wakened her or I could have taken her in and put her on her bed. But then, I might have wanted to lie down beside her.  She was a lovely woman and I knew I was going to have problems forgetting just how beautiful she was in the future.

I was taking my meals with the kids and my new housekeeper.  She apparently slept in, for the house was quiet in the morning.  I went along to the store and had coffee and doughnuts there. I called home at ten and told Shelly I would be home for lunch. “I’ll have it ready for you.  Where did you say your store was?”

I told her. Twenty minutes later the truck she had driven pulled up outside and she came in. “Mr. Rheingold, I promised you lunch, but there is nothing in the house to feed you. Load me up with something.  I’ll drive your car home and you can bring the truck.  When are we going to unload it, anyway?”

“Tomorrow.  How are the kids doing?”

“Good. I have to get back before they get into trouble.  See you.” I had questions to answer by my workers when she drove off in my car. Dinner wasn’t much more than another lunch.  We would go shopping tomorrow after we unloaded the truck.  The bicycles came off.  All three kids took off up the dirt road behind the house that followed along the brook.

I met Shelly’s in-laws when they came driving in to see their two grand kids.  I could see why Shelly liked them.  They were pleasant folks and reminded me of my own who had died when I was just married to Elizabeth. Grampa was a beer drinker just like dad and me.  No cocktails for us. My ex-wife would have insisted I serve a whiskey. I smiled when I thought about this.

Pa Waters said they came along today to see the kids, and wanted to see if it would be all right for their son Ronnie to come tomorrow.  “Tell him yes.  Tell him to come at noon and I will have Shelly do a roast. The kids are anxious to see their father.”

Later after the older folks had left, Shelly asked me, “Are you sure you are okay with him coming here?”

“Of course.  The kids need to see and know their father. You need to see him too.”

“Why would I need to see him?  He’s my ex.”

“Yes and you haven’t seen him for several months. You need to see if there is still any fire left or if the spark has totally disappeared.”

“What makes you think that?”

“Shelly. I was in the same position with Elizabeth as you are with Ronnie.  Being away for a length of time makes you wonder how you will feel when you see your ex.  If there is nothing, then you have made the right decision in divorcing.  If a feeling of gladness washes over you at first sight, then you have to explore how he feels about you.

“You’re divorced, but that may have come about by exterior forces pulling you in opposite directions until you felt divorce was the best option. You have been apart long enough to re-evaluate your true feelings.”

“I don’t know as I understand your thought process, but thank you for inviting Ronnie so the kids can see their father.”  She couldn’t see into my mind. If she had, she would have seen me hoping the spark had gone out for Ronnie.  I was that taken with my housekeeper.  I just wanted to be sure that there was no love still lingering between them.

Jimmy said as I was saying goodnight to him, “I suppose Mom is on her way to Paris. I wonder if she will write to me.”

“I think she will, son.  I’m sure she misses you.”

“I wouldn’t bet on it.”  When I heard from Elizabeth and if she hadn’t written Jimmy, I was going to land all over her.

Chapter Two

Ronnie did come on Sunday. I was the observer. When he came in, he grabbed Shelly for a passionate kiss, but she pulled away from him as soon as she could. I could see he loved his kids and they felt the same way about him. He ignored Jimmy and was cool toward me.

After dinner, I suggested to Jimmy that he show me where he had been playing down by the brook. This would give my housekeeper a chance to reconnect with her ex-husband.  A half hour later, the two girls came and found Jimmy and me. “Mom told us to go play with Jimmy.  I hope Mom and Daddy aren’t going to fight like they did before he left last time.”  They looked so sad.  I took time to show the kids how to skip stones across the brook.

When we returned to the house after an hour, Shelly and Ronnie were calm and it seemed as if things were fine between them. He fooled with Sandy and Kathy, laughing and joking with them. Before he left though, Kathy let her dad know how rough it was living when he didn’t send the money he was supposed to. 

“Jimmy used to bring us food from his house for us to eat and we almost had to go to a shelter, but Jimmy’s dad came just in time and gave Mom a job.”

His only comment was that the Lord did provide when he couldn’t.  Shelly’s face darkened, but she didn’t say anything. Ronnie left shortly after this exchange. The girls clung to him and cried as he left. Jimmy saved the day when he walked between them and held their hands as they waved good-bye.

When the kids were in bed and sleeping, Shelly said, “I imagine you want to know what went on between Ronnie and me while you were out.”

“Yes, but I don’t need to.”

“I knew you would say that. John, I was hoping that things had changed, but Ron is worse instead of better. I will never go back to him.  Would you believe he thought we should go to bed?  I haven’t seen him for months and that is the first thing he wanted.  That car he is driving belongs to his girlfriend.  My mother-in-law told me that yesterday.

“I asked him for some of the back money he owes, but he said he had to live and didn’t see how he could give me any. I have always said I would never say anything bad to the kids about him, but it is difficult.  He is working and I am tempted to have his wages garnished.  What should I do?”

“Shelly, I can’t advise you.”

“I know that.  I guess that as long as I am working for you, I’m okay.  I don’t know what I would have done if you hadn’t come along with a job offer.  I have only known you for six days and it has been the brightest time I’ve had for a long time.”

“When is he coming to see the girls again?”

“He said he would be back in two weeks on a Saturday to take the kids out. He intimated there might be a woman with him.  I will be talking to my mother-in-law before then and I’ll know more about what Ronnie does and how he lives.  She has always liked me and she loves her grand kids.”

We sat on the couch and Shelly was staring into space, while I watched the show, 60 minutes.  “You know I was so excited about seeing him again. I am not now.  I’m just disappointed.”

“I don’t know exactly how you feel, but I went through much the same thing. My wife dumped me.  Don’t get me wrong, I was ready for our marriage to end.  I wanted her to feel sorry or sad about what she was doing, but I never saw any indication of it until we saw her this week.  There was never even any raising of voices because by that time she had taken all I had to give and when she wanted the divorce, that was it and there was no more.”

“As you could see, she saw how much I have changed.  That comes of me finally being in control of my own life. I think you are coming to something like that and will be the better for it.”

“You are saying, when I set my own course in life I’ll feel a lot better?”

“Something like that. You are going to be okay.  You have been through the fire and although scorched a little, you have been tempered to a hardness it takes to see you through to the end.  Just remember to leave a little softness for those who really cherish you.  Shelly, I have a busy day tomorrow. I’m going to sack in even though it is early. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight, John.  Thank you for pausing long enough to listen to me.  I think I will go to bed myself.”

Ronnie did come to see the girls every other weekend and took them out to a different fast food place.  The girls wanted Jimmy with them so I gave him money, as I knew Ronnie wouldn't pay for his meal.  All three kids would be going to the local school and we had that all arranged.

Elizabeth did write to Jimmy. Often it was no more than a postcard showing some site she visited, but she was faithful in corresponding anyway.  We never had an address where we could contact her.  I received a support payment regularly.  She doubled the amount and I freely used it for Sandy and Kathy.

When I paid Shelly her wages, she returned 20% of it when she cashed her check.  She had a ledger and showed me the balance she still owed me on the money she borrowed when I paid off her landlord.

Shelly did go to court for an order so she could garnish Ronnie’s wages.  He was some pissed. We all knew he would never pay what he owed in back support, but he was paying the current amount due for the two girls each month. No more free lunch for him.

We did meet his current girlfriend, Pam.  She was older by five years than Ronnie. Personally, I liked her, as she seemed to have it all together.  She was not particularly pretty, but attractive with her curly brown hair and bright brown eyes. 

She took no crap from Ronnie and bossed him unmercifully.  It was what he needed, I suspect.  Shelly had loved Ronnie and never had treated him with disrespect while they were married.  I imagine if a balance could have been struck between the actions of the two, and Shelly had found it, she would still be married to him.

Jimmy did not get a card the first week of September from his mother.  None in the second week either.  I called her attorney when there was nothing the third week.  He informed me, “She’ll be contacting you shortly.  She is fine, just busy.  She sends her love to Jimmy. I should have relayed that sooner.”

Two days after this conversation, I came home to see Elizabeth’s car sitting in my driveway. I guess neither she nor Shelly heard me drive in and I stepped into the living room where the two women were sitting on the couch.

Elizabeth came bounding off the couch and into my arms. She kissed me before saying, “Johnny, I’m so glad to see you.”  Two things struck me as being different.  She rarely called me Johnny and she rarely was demonstrative in front of anyone unless it was Jimmy.

I backed her up so I could look into her eyes.  “This is a surprise. I didn’t expect you back in this country for another three months or so.”

“Oh, I have had an awful time. I don’t know what to believe about anyone anymore. I even had a hard time getting home.”

“Calm down.  You can tell me all about it, maybe this evening. Have you seen Jimmy?”

“No.  Shelly said he and the girls went down to the neighbors to play when they got home from school.”

“She’ll give you directions if you want to go meet him.  He has been wondering why you haven’t written for the last three weeks. You can gauge how he feels about you when you walk in on him.  I have to take a shower as I have been out to the pig farm with a truckload of bread.  I might not smell the best.”

“You smell good to me.”

I looked over her shoulder at Shelly who was staring at the back of Elizabeth’s head. The thought flashed through me.  Shelly is jealous. Then she looked at my face and flushed.  Another thought, she is not just jealous. I recognized in that glance that she had feelings for me.

To me this was a new and welcomed development.  When we had time, I might ask about these feelings I had and see if hers matched mine.  I had been waiting for the right opening for weeks. I still hadn’t got over my habit of letting others control my life and I needed to change that.

Elizabeth went looking for Jimmy and I went to take a shower while Shelly made dinner. I invited Elizabeth to stay the night.  She would have Jimmy’s bed and he would bunk in with me. Shelly then rushed the kids through dinner so they could catch the early show as it was Friday night and no school tomorrow. 

“Jimmy, your Dad wants to talk to your Mom. We’ll give them some time together.”

“Okay, but I want to live here with Dad.  I don’t want to move back with you, Mom.”

“Jimmy, I promise I won’t ask you to. I would like to have you visit me over Christmas though.”

“Maybe, but I want to spend Christmas with Kathy and Sandy. Can they come with me?”

“We’ll talk about it.  It is a long time from now.”  That seemed to satisfy Jimmy and away they went with Shelly.

I turned to Elizabeth. “Okay, tell me about the last three months. I take it is what you came here for.”

“John, I should never have divorced you.  You were always there for me and did just what I wanted you to do. Brian was more of a take-charge person.  I did not realize this until we traveled overseas. I suppose I didn’t think you equaled me in class and I thought Brian did.

“I did budget how much money I planned on spending on our sojourn. Brian spent it freely. Then I woke up two weeks ago and he was gone.  He took everything of value, including his clothes and my jewelry.  He stuck me with the hotel bills and several other items I agreed he could buy which I thought were already paid for.

“The bastard even took my credit cards and maxed them out in that one evening between the time I went to bed and when I woke up. I am now a quarter of a million dollars poorer than when I said good-bye to you last summer.  Christ, you didn’t cost me that in the twelve years I knew you.”  Elizabeth went into details of what had transpired during the last three months.

“He was a con man then, and you were his mark.”

“Yes, and if when he tries to get back into the United States, he may have trouble.”

“Oh, he’ll be back and some day he’ll be caught, because crooks are always apprehended. I can almost guarantee you’ll never get your money back though.”

“I don’t care about the money, but you can bet I’ll be the prosecution’s best witness.”

“So why are you here to see me?”

“Just to see Jimmy and cry on your shoulder, I guess.  Maybe you can tell me how to straighten out my life.  Looking back, I can see where you never bucked against me. You always made sure I was happy in our life together.  That is until I thought I wanted someone more exciting than you appeared to be.  I screwed up royally didn’t I?”

“No, my leaving you was coming. I wasn’t happy being in your shadow and I sometimes felt like I was your lap dog. When I realized I was better than that, it was inevitable we part. I am happy now.  I do have to watch my money because my business is growing all of the time. I haven’t taken time for any personal happiness either, but I’m going to change that soon.”

“Shelly?”

“Maybe.  I haven’t spoken to her about how I feel.”

“I talked to her this afternoon and I have no idea what is in her mind, except she wants her two girls and Jimmy to grow up together.  I think she would marry you just to make that happen.”

“It would have to be more than that.”

“I guess you are right.  You tried marriage with the love unequal between the partners. We know that doesn’t work.”  Elizabeth looked sad realizing that if she had not been quite so demanding, we might still be married.

I listened to a scene-by-scene story of the movie when Shelly and the kids came home. Elizabeth was going to bed after telling Jimmy good night.  She was a long time in saying good night to him and Shelly had time to ask me if I was going back to her.

“No, our time is behind us even though she has changed for the better. She is discovering that other people besides her have wants and needs.”  Elizabeth came back in and said good night to us.  “John, we do have a great son. I am so proud.  Shelly, I love Kathy and Sandy almost as much as I do Jimmy.  I will see you in the morning.  Good night.”  She left us.

“See what I mean?  She would have never said that before to either me or you.”

“She does seem thoughtful. How long is she staying?”

“I don’t know.  For a few days, I guess.  Say, I have to go to Gainsville on business Wednesday, and I am planning to be back home late Friday. It isn’t that far away, but I am going to be gone overnight Wednesday and Thursday. Would you like to go with me?  I’ll ask Elizabeth to watch the kids.”

“The kids will miss us.”

“Elizabeth will get them ready for school and take them out to eat every night.”

“Okay, if you really want me to tag along.”

I looked her in the face. “I can’t think of anything I would like better.”

“I’ll do it.  Let me ask Elizabeth now.  She can’t have gone to sleep yet.” I heard the two women laughing and it was a half hour later before Shelly came out and sat across the room from me.

“Well, will she?”  Shelly’s face was flushed and she was smiling broadly.

“Yes she will. You know, I was prepared to hate your wife, but I think I like her.  She seems so full of it.”

I looked back at her blankly.  “That’s not the wife I knew.  Wow, is she finally becoming human?”

“Oh, she’s human. John, let’s make her our friend.  We will be seeing her quite often.  She wants to keep seeing Jimmy.”

“I hope she isn’t planning on taking custody away from me.”

“No she isn’t.  I asked her. She also has invited us to spend Christmas with her, you know. She’s planning a bash so I can see all of my old neighbors whom I was friendly with when I lived there.  You’ll see yours from two years ago as well.”  I just shook my head in disbelief.

There was more.  Elizabeth went into the kitchen while Shelly was getting Sunday dinner. Food preparation was all new to my ex-wife. She was so proud when I complimented Shelly on the baking powder biscuits and Shelly said that Elizabeth had been the one to make them. “I may have put them together, but Shelly told me exactly how.”

Monday I took Elizabeth to work with me.  We first went to the store and then about eleven we went to the warehouse where the day-old food was coming in to be separated, marked, and transported to the discount store. We went back and watched as the wrappers were removed, the older stuff going into the pig farm tubs to be processed. “Would you like to ride out there with me?  Shelly often drives the truck for me, but it is mine to do today.”

“Sure, I might as well see your whole operation. It must cost you a lot to rent this old warehouse.”

“It is expensive, but I have an option to buy just as soon as my profit allows me to.”

“Why don’t you borrow the money?”

“Because the business as it is, just won’t support so large an expenditure yet. I can buy it in two years if I continue to grow at the same pace as I am now.”

“That seems like a long time to wait.”

“Not long in the scheme of things.”

“I could lend you the money.  Hell, I could give you the money.”

An explosive no came from me.  “Elizabeth, I don’t want that kind of help from you.  I’m just getting comfortable with you being here to visit our son. I don't want to be beholden to you in any other way.  If I took money from you, I would be right back to feeling as I did before we divorced.  Don’t do this to me.”

“Our relationship bothered you that much?”

“Not at first, but then I began to get the feeling you bought me and you began acting as if you had.”

“Give me an example.”

“I can easily.”

“Do it.”

“Okay, here goes and this is a quote, ‘John we are expected at the club for dinner at eight. After dinner, try to converse with the other men we are joining.  You have a habit of finding a corner and looking as if you want to be alone.  You could dance with the other spouses.  Some of the women wonder about our marriage and why I married you.  You’re making me look bad.’  Elizabeth, something like that happened more often than not."

“I admit you had some cause, but you were the one that put me into that situation. In case you forgot, I warned you that my being married to you would never work because you were so rich.  It would have been so easy for me to take advantage of you just like this Brian who just took you for a ride.”

“Why didn’t you?”

“For one thing, I knew you didn’t know what you were doing to me.  When I tried to talk to you about it, you wouldn’t listen. Another reason was, I had to live and respect myself.  I made the same vows you did and when it became obvious I didn’t respect myself any longer, it was time to leave. You made it easy for me by instituting the suit. I did it without breaking any of my vows.”

We rode along without either of us saying anything.  Just as we pulled into the hog ranch, Elizabeth said, “I should have listened to you when I had the chance.  Too late now.  John, at least I know now why you left without being nasty or mean.  I’m glad we had this talk.”  She was staring out the window.  “My God, look at the pigs! There are hundreds of them.”

“Yes and I own a little piece of each one.”

“You aren’t planning on going into politics are you John?”

“No, what do you mean?”

“I mean you have your own private pork barrel.”  This was the first time Elizabeth had ever tried to make a joke. It was a weak one, but she made the effort, anyway.

I stepped down from the truck and faced her. I stood there staring at her shaking my head.  “It was really bad, huh?”

“The joke wasn’t that great, but I’m beginning to have hope for you.”

“Stop for a minute. John, I always thought I was an intelligent person, but I’ve learned you are more so than I am. I do know one thing that you might not be aware of and I am passing it on to you.  Shelly Waters loves you very deeply. Don’t let her get away.  Now let’s go play with the pigs.”

We didn’t go where the pigs were, but Elizabeth showed interest in their production.  This was especially when the food that I trucked in was mentioned by my partner, Sam Gembrowski.  “You know this is classified as a free range hog operation and we are allowed to advertise as such.  This brings us a few more cents a pound when we market the hogs.

“It would be nice if we could advertise as an organic farm, but using the feed that John provides we can’t.  There are too many preservatives and chemicals added to the bread and doughnuts to let us do that.  However, we are careful and do make sure what we feed is good for the animals and for the humans who ultimately utilize the pork.  Believe it or not, pigs are very close to man in their body makeup and organs.”

Elizabeth interjected: “Maybe that accounts for so many obese people in the United States.”

“Hey lady, you may have something in that.”

On the way home, I said I might take Shelly dancing one night when we were away.  Elizabeth thought that a grand idea.

---

We were up very early Wednesday morning.  We had a three-hour drive and I had an early meeting. I planned to leave about five.  Shelly and I had promised we would bring the kids back a present when we returned.  We did get away on time.  I had to go through the city to reach the state route I would be traveling.

As we left the city, I asked what rooms Shelly had reserved. “Room? I have only reserved one room. You have slept in the same bed twice before with me when we first met.  I am comfortable with the same arrangement.”

I looked at Shelly.  She had a gentle smirk on her face.  I wanted to let her know I was willing to leave her in charge on this point. “I’m okay with that. You have to know though, things have changed since that time.”

“I’m counting on it. Change the subject.  What is this business you have to conduct?”

“I’m meeting with a bakery that makes all sorts of bakery products.  There will be other men here so I’m told, but I don’t know in what capacity. Getting the bread discards and mistakes made in baking is what I am aiming for. I’m looking for a contract that will direct more out of date product my way. 

“We have enough day old items to stock our discount store, but I know there is a lot of stuff that would go to pig feed. Rather than have the factory handle it, I thought maybe I could set up a collection point and it would come right to me to handle.

“If that happens, then I can buy the warehouse and process it right there.”

“Always thinking aren’t you?”

“Yes.  Look, I want my business to grow, but I don't want it to get so big but what I still have time enough to enjoy family.  At some point, I will come to that and stop expanding. When I stop expanding, I will hire someone to manage it and just do consulting. I know you worked in accounting, would you care to take on more duties as my accountant?”

“I would. I know I can help you so you can reach your goals sooner.”

“I don’t want to get rich, say like Elizabeth is, but I do want to be comfortable and send my kids to college, have a vacation every year, and buy the items to be comfortable when I need them.”

“Kids, you only have one.”

“Oh, but I plan on having more just as soon as I find someone to spend the rest of my life with. It is time to change the subject again.  What are you going to be doing while I’m in the meeting?”

“I’m going shopping.  Elizabeth gave me money for being such a good surrogate mother to Jimmy. I shouldn’t have taken it, but she gave several reasons why I should.  She convinced me.”

It was companionable as we rode along. “Tell me about your life while you were growing up, if you would? I know it is personal, but I would like to know.”

“I don’t mind.  I had a happy childhood.  We never had much money, but always found enough for the necessities.  You haven’t met my parents yet.  My dad will like you and you will like him, I think.  Mom is sweet, just like you want a mother to be. I have a brother who is smarter than the rest of us.  He is a lawyer and lives in California with his wife and their two children.

“My dad has a small moving company with three trucks.  He doesn’t do any long haul moves, just local.  He has one full time employee.  I used to fill in when he had all three trucks out.  You’ll meet him next week when they come to visit.”

“What about you and Ronnie?  How did you meet him?”

“He was my childhood sweetheart. His mother sent him off to school after we graduated. He did not do well there.  Too many parties I guess, so he flunked out and came home.  He found a job and started courting me.  I was working so we got married.  His folks moved to where they live now and Ronnie had a chance to work in the town where I met you.

“Shortly after we got situated, he lost his job. I worked and he was supposed to take care of Kathy and Sandy.  He couldn’t even do that.  I came home a couple of times and the girls were home alone.  We argued about it until I said I had enough.  My mother and father paid for the divorce and he went back to live with his folks.

“So here I am with two kids and all the expenses because I couldn’t count on Ronnie to help at all. He really was a big disappointment to me. I lost my job and that is when Jimmy started helping out by bringing us some food.  Then you arrived.  End of story.’’

“Have you dated at all?”

“No, how could I? Too much baggage. Have you dated since your divorce from Elizabeth?”

“No.  Christ that makes us almost virgin again doesn’t it?”

“Maybe so, but I’ll bet that is going to change.  Let’s move on to a different subject.”

“Okay.” We went another few miles. Then I asked, “We will get to the hotel about eight. I think we should stop at a diner somewhere and eat breakfast. Then I will get us checked in. When we check in, is it going to be as Mr. and Mrs. Rheingold or otherwise?”

“I think Mrs. Rheingold would be perfect.”

I looked sideways.  “Good.  Shelly, I’m going somewhat slowly with you.  I don’t want to rush you into anything, but I would like to have a relationship with you.”

“I want one with you too. Sometimes I wonder why you want one with me.  I hope you aren’t just feeling sorry for me.  I don’t need pity.”

“Sorry for you?  Hell, I admire you. Look at the troubles and setbacks you have had?  I’ve had it easy compared to you and yet here we are ready for a relationship.  One I hope will last a long time and maybe for the rest of our lives.

“You know when I left Elizabeth I was going to show that I didn’t need her or her money. She is taking care of our kids right now and she does not cross my mind that often.  I think of you all the time and how I’m going to make you happy enough to stay in my life.”

We were coming to the diner where I had in mind to eat breakfast.  That cut off our discussion. I parked in the second row of vehicles. “Shelly?”

It was a question.  She unbuckled her seat belt and came into my arms, saying, “I’ve wanted to do that for so long.  It was just as perfect as I imagined it would be.” 

Just then, someone walked by and stopped to look in at us and then he smiled.  “Pretty early in the day for that.” We both laughed up at him and pecked each other before following him into the diner.

My meeting was in room 409.  Our room was 607.  I followed the bellhop into the elevator and got off on the fourth floor, kissing Shelly on the cheek as she did so.  “I’ll meet you for lunch in the lobby.  I may have to return for an hour or so after lunch.  Would you please ask around and get dinner reservation somewhere nice?”

“You got it.”

I walked into room 409.  There were three men sitting at a small round conference table.  It was suggested I get coffee before sitting down if I wished. The oldest, a man in his sixties, introduced himself as Tim Reardon, the manager of the bakery I was going to be dealing with if things progressed as I hoped.

There was Mike Haslund, a year or two younger than I was. He was interested in my workforce of the homeless, and the part-time welfare workers, and those on unemployment.  The third person, looking to be the same age as Mike, was introduced as Neil, no last name given.

I started my spiel, “Gentlemen, much of what I’ll be telling you, you know already. My operation is small and right now has three components to it.  I own a portion of a good-sized convenience store. It has bakery products that go out of date before they are sold. I looked for a way to salvage these goods.

“Some I can salvage as food for human consumption.  Not a big portion, but some.  The rest is stripped of packaging and processed as animal feed and that is the second component.  The third component is that I also own part of a hog ranch that utilizes the animal feed.”

 “My store doesn’t enter into this only to show where the product comes from. Tim’s bakery could be said to be the same as my convenience store, just a lot bigger. I have leased an old factory warehouse and that is where most of the action is.  It is large enough to process fifty times what I am doing right now. To do that, I need more people and I need more equipment.

“I’ve hesitated to even think about expanding until I can lock up a supply. I need a contract to do that.  Then I can go to the city and state and look for grant money and tax abatement.  There should be some money available for that.  Just think if I provided six jobs to the homeless, twelve to fifteen for those on welfare and as many as that to the unemployed. Some of these jobs could be performed by the disabled.”

Neil asked, “What happens if you lose the lease on your warehouse?”

“I think I have that locked in.  I have an option to buy if it is ever sold.  Not only that, it is for whatever the city’s appraisal is.”

“Smart.  Where will you be getting all of these people to man your operation if you expand?”

“The city used to have bus service down into this section when the factories were operating. I’m sure they would again. Maybe some of those closed down factory buildings would open up if the area were revitalized for manufacturing new products. 

“This isn’t a bad section of the city.  The beltway comes close and the area is easy to reach.  Some of the better constructed factory buildings could even be rehabbed for living quarters.  This has been done in other areas.”

“You sound like a man of vision. Where do you see this all going for you?”

“Thanks Mike, I hope I have the correct vision.  The operation will not be too different from what it is right now, just bigger. I am looking to accomplish this in the next five years.  By that time, I will own the warehouse.  The hog ranch has room to expand and that can come about if what is fed to the hogs is cheap enough.

“Believe it or not, this bakery stuff can’t be fed as a diet wholly.  It can be combined with other normal feed for a saving of at least twenty percent. That can enhance the bottom line considerably.”

“And then what for you?”

“I’ll do consulting, leaving a manager in place to operate the warehouse.  I’ll still be short of forty years.  I will never give up this that I have started.  I will have invested too much time and thought into it to let it go out of my hands entirely.  Besides I have a family and children to help educate.”

“You’re married then I take it?” 

“No Neil, I’m not, but I do have a lady in mind.  She has two beautiful little girls and I have a son by a woman whom I divorced years ago.  Actually, she divorced me.  She is super rich and for a few years, I lived her lifestyle.  I felt cramped because I felt so unproductive.  I don’t have that problem now.  In fact, we are still friends and she is staying at my house caring for our son while I am here today.

“Tim let’s get down to details on what if anything you can do for me.”

“Okay.  Basically, I like what you have done so far.  I think you should write this up into a business model. That should get you financing at any institution. You are going to need more equipment and some changes to this warehouse you are located in.”

“I have done the paperwork already.  All I need to get started is a contract or at least a letter of intent.”

“If you have it in hand, I will look at it this morning. Would you mind if Mike and Neil look at it with me?”

“No, of course not, although I can’t see why.”  I pulled the papers out and passed them to Reardon. As he finished reading a page, he passed it on to the others. I got up and refilled my coffee cup.

“Well this is pretty thorough. I would suggest you lock in your lease on the property you are using.  That seems like the only weak link in your plan.”

I looked across the table at Neil. “Can we do business, Mr. Neil Fortier?  Can I get the long-term lease I need?  I already have the option to purchase it, but I don't have the funds at present. I want to get the business expanded before I buy.”

“I’d say you have done your homework, Mr. Rheingold. I wasn’t aware it was known that I own that particular property.”

“Don’t blame the property manager who I have been dealing with.  I had an investigator look into who owned property in the area.  Actually, you don’t own it.  I believe your mother does.  A Mrs. Molly Fortier, correct?  I told you I was married at one time to a super rich woman.  She wasn’t that knowledgeable about things such as this, but many of the people she associates with are.  I listened and learned from them.”

“I’d say you learned well.  I will advise my parent to do as you wish.  She is pretty sharp herself. She has been after me to see if I couldn’t think of some way to upgrade the value of the old factory buildings she owns in our section of the city. I think you have pointed out a way to do this.”

The rest of the meeting was just details. Tim Reardon promised a contract if I was going to be in town.  I said I was not leaving until Friday afternoon.  I agreed to go by his office to pick it up.

I was curious how Neil Fortier was notified and involved in this meeting.  Tim Reardon answered.  “Mike Haslund is my son-in-law. We discussed this.  When he learned what the meeting was about and where, he called up his buddy Neil from college, knowing he would be interested.” 

I shook hands all around, well satisfied on how the meeting went this morning. I believed I would be going home with all that I came for. We all left the meeting together.  Now for more personal business.  Shelly was waiting in the lobby as agreed.

I almost didn’t recognize her. She was dressed for lunch in heels, a white blouse and a straight skirt and matching jacket of beige.  Her hair had been done.  Where she had found time to have it styled, I had no idea. Maybe I harked back to when Elizabeth had hers done, which was at least a three-hour session. Shelly’s hair, dull gold always, had taken on a sheen from something applied, I was sure.  Did she ever stand out!

Shelly came up to me and kissed me on the cheek.  “How did it go?”

“Very well.  Shelly, I would like to have you meet Tim Reardon who is giving me the contract I was looking for and his son-in-law Mike Haslund, and Neil Fortier. Neil is from our city and I will be involved with him in the business to some extent.  Gentlemen, Shelly Waters, my intended.”

All were pleased to meet Shelly and said so.  “Mr. Fortier, if you and John are involved together in the future, you must come visit us. We have three children between us.  I can send them down to the neighbors so they won’t be a distraction if you want to conduct business.”

“Call me Neil.  May I address you as Shelly?”  Shelly nodded. “Would it be possible, if I came by Saturday afternoon for just a few minutes? I want to speak to my mother and then I can let John know what she says.  She may want to meet with you herself.”

“Certainly.” They shook hands and I turned to Shelly.  God was she beautiful and was I proud.  We went into the hotel dining room for lunch. I was almost giddy while telling her about my meeting. That done, “What are you planning for this afternoon and where are we dining tonight?”

“It is nap time this afternoon.  Tonight we are eating in a Country and Western dance hall and lounge.  They have live music starting at nine.  Have you ever done any line dancing?”

“Yes, and I’m quite good at it.”

“I knew that.  Your ex told me and that is why I felt okay to get reservations at the bar.  She also told me she hated being dragged out to such a place and wouldn’t go very often. Ronnie used to take me when we had the money, but it has been several years.”

I used the key card to let us into room 607.  Shelly preceded me, going in and turning as I closed the door. She came into my arms, kissing me passionately.  “John, is it sleep or something else?  I’ll go along with what you suggest.”

“Is the reservation for the dinner or the dance?”

“The dance.”

“Good.  That means there is time for both here in the hotel. I’ll have room service bring our dinner about seven-thirty.  That something else you mentioned can happen and we will still have time for a short nap. Right now I’m going to take a shower.”

Shelly took her shower first.  When I came out of the bath after mine with a towel around me, Shelly was bending over a suitcase across the room.  She wiggled her butt just a little and then looked over her shoulder.  “Does this look familiar?”

I advanced on this naked woman, dropping my towel as I approached.  “This is where you are supposed to scream, who are you?”  Shelly did scream just a little and then the scream turned to squeaks of pleasure. It was because I was finding those secret spots on her body that hadn’t been fondled for a while. The same was soon happening to me.  We did make it to the bed, before continuing.

There was an urgency about our coming together that could not be denied and it did not take forever either. Soon after the first fire had been quenched, we turned to exploring and then to making love. There were no inhibitions either as we reveled in each other. Finally, “This is an anniversary for us, you know?”

“What’s the anniversary?”

“It was four months ago today that you hired me to look after Jimmy.  John, I have to tell you I am the happiest I have ever been.  Hold me and hold me forever.” We went to sleep just like that, holding each other.

We were talking to the kids on the phone when our dinner was wheeled into our room. I had a minute with Elizabeth, telling her I thought I had everything I was after. She congratulated me and turned the phone back to the kids. 

Sandy and Kathy had been bade by Elizabeth to call her Aunt Elizabeth.  Jimmy thought this was a great joke and wanted to call his mother likewise. Unbelievably, she thought this was funny and agreed. She was connecting with Jimmy in ways I never thought she would stoop to. Exhibiting upper class actions had always meant so much to her.

Shelly had bought us new clothes and laid them out. Pre-washed dungarees and western styled shirts.  I said we would be laughed at, they were so new, but she said here in the city, there would be others dressed the same as us.  She was right of course. The dances were a mix of the Texas two-step, the line dance and of course, these were interspersed with the waltz.

We had no idea how much we would be drinking so had opted for a taxi to transport us. It was a good thing for both of us were well on the way to being loaded by the time it was time to return to the hotel. I took time to brush my teeth in the bathroom before crashing in bed. I didn’t even remember anything after seeing Shelly heading for her own ablutions. I was up three hours later for a pee break.  When I crawled back into bed, I saw that Shelly’s eyes were open. “I woke you up getting back into bed I think.  I’m sorry.”

“No, I had to get up.  I didn’t hear you. Shelly, as long as you are awake, I want to tell you that I love you. I’ll always love you.”

“I’ll always love you too.  Let me turn over so you can spoon against me. I can’t imagine anything better than you being snuggled up to me.”

“I can’t either. Would you mind if I cupped your breast as we lie here?”

“I’d like that.” When I awoke in the morning, I found I had turned over and it was Shelly who was snuggled up to me. It just could not get better than this. I lay there in bed making the decision that I wanted Shelly to be my wife. There was no time like the present to ask her.

“Shelly, wake up.”

“I’m awake.”

“We have kind of had a little honeymoon, don’t you think it is time we were married?”

“I do. When?”

“How about next weekend, unless you want a big wedding?”

“Next weekend is fine with me. Can we have it right in our own home? I mean we have a business to attend to and the kids have school. You can move from the back apartment right into my bed.”

“Good.  I couldn’t think of a better plan. Do you think your parents will come?”

“They will. The girls see little enough of their Beals grandparents.  What about your grandfather and grandmother?”

“They’ll come.  I’d like one other couple.  Madie and Will.  They should be with us.” Are you going to inform Ronnie?”

“I suppose I should, but I’m not inviting him or his parents to our wedding.  I’m still friendly with them, but this is our wedding and they are not involved.  What about Elizabeth?”

“I don’t know.  How do you feel about having her at our ceremony?”

“I wouldn’t mind.  She has been helpful, but I don’t want her involved at all. Okay, we have talked about getting married.  It is about time we sealed the deal. I’ll freshen up first.” It took longer than I expected.  I guess freshening up meant more than just brushing her teeth.  Umm, she smelled nice and tasted nice---all over.

I had planned this day for us.  It was perfect.  The weather was nice. We had promised the kids presents and now we had to deliver. Finally, in desperation, we bought Halloween costumes because we couldn’t come up with anything else. Feeling guilty, we purchased a book for each. 

Still we needed something to know we thought of them.  We were passing a photography studio at the time.  “Photos while you wait” were promised.  We went in and a half hour later, we had a picture in a frame that was captioned, John and Shelly Rheingold, husband and wife, father and mother of Sandy, Jimmy, and Kathy. We made the obligatory call to the kids.  They wondered why Shelly was so giggly.  We promised to tell them tomorrow when we got home.

In the evening we went to an upscale restaurant and then on to a ballroom for dancing. The night was just as enjoyable after returning to the hotel.  We were still in bed when our phone rang the next morning.  It was Tim Reardon telling me I could pick up the papers anytime. This was great for us, as we would arrive home about the time school let out.

Elizabeth had got along good with the kids.  She was some frazzled though, and declared they were hungry all the time.  The biggest problem was that she had never done any cooking in her life.  Well, maybe a slice of toast on occasion.  She had thrown up her hands the first evening and let the kids get the meals.

“I must have gained five pounds. I swear Jimmy is going to be a chef.”  I laughed to myself. No way in hell would Elizabeth let that happen? I just could not see her talking to her rich friends about her son the chef.

The kids got their presents as soon as we got home. I let Shelly spring the news that we planned to get married.  “Kathy, Sandy and Jimmy, I have a picture of us that John and I took while we were away.”  Believe it or not, it was Sandy the youngest, who took the time to read the caption.  She came to me for a hug.

“Can I call you Dad for real now?  I’ve wanted to forever.”

“It isn’t happening until a week from tomorrow, but you can call me Daddy right now.”

“Goody!”

Elizabeth came and took the photo from Kathy, looking first at the picture and then at Shelly and then at me.  “Congratulations John and Shelly, I had a feeling this was coming. I couldn’t choose a better step-mother for Jimmy than Shelly.  Have you made any plans yet?”

We explained who we wanted at our wedding.  When I mentioned Madie and Will, Elizabeth said, “Make a deal with you, John. If you invite me to your service, I’ll have Madie and Will come and I’ll put them up in a motel. I have wanted to do something nice for them since I came back from Paris.  This will make us all happy.”

Kathy called her grandparents. Her father Ronnie was there and she told him the news. She could not contain her excitement and exclaimed how happy she and Sandy were to have a new dad. He growled at her and made her cry. I had to explain to her why he wouldn't be happy with me marrying her mom. “Well, I don’t care.  At least since we have been living with you we always have enough to eat and Mom doesn’t worry about paying her bills.”

I had slept with Shelly for the last two nights.  I had become addicted.  No way was I going to sleep alone again.  Sandy came through again and made it easy without having to explain anything.  “Now that you are my Daddy, you have to sleep in the bed with Mommy.”  That took care of that problem.

Almost anyway.  Elizabeth said she guessed she would move to a motel. Shelly said she wasn’t going to because she was our guest!

She declared she was not.  “I dropped out the sky and have imposed myself on my ex-husband.  By rights, you didn’t have to let me in the door. I just won’t feel right staying here any longer. I do want to be at your wedding.  That will be enough.”

“Elizabeth, what is the problem?” Tears came to her eyes.

“Just jealous seeing how happy you two are, I guess.”

“I can understand and I can see why you feel this way. I felt a little like that when you were so excited about going off to Paris with that Brian person. How about sleeping in the back apartment?  If you move out, I’m afraid Jimmy will feel I drove you away. Shelly, are you okay with her staying here?”

“Of course. She could stay right where she is.  I wouldn’t mind.”

“You’re too good, both of you. Just for Jimmy’s sake, I will do as John suggests.”

After Shelly and I got into bed, she said, “I’m glad she moved to the other room. Now we can make love and just have the kids to worry about hearing us.”

For some reason I couldn’t sleep after Shelly kissed me and turned over. It soon became obvious she couldn’t either. “What is troubling you sweetheart?”

“I just hope Ronnie doesn’t do anything to lower himself in the girls’ eyes.  I have been so careful not to trash him.”

“We will be careful that he doesn’t have a chance to. If we think that is likely to happen, we will see if we can keep them separate until he goes away.”

“I hope so, but I don’t know.  Ronnie can be an ass.”

“Go to sleep unless you want to fool around some more.”

“Okay, start fooling.”  She had called my bluff. I was just too damned tired.  I did get one more kiss and that is all I really wanted tonight.

Jimmy’s signature breakfast for his mother was a Warwick. Where the name of this ever came from, I had no idea. The dish came from my father who got the recipe from my great-aunt. It was a slice of bread, pan fried in real butter on one side until brown. Butter the pan again, drop an egg into the butter, and break.  The bread placed browned side on the egg and cooked until the white was done. Flip over to brown the remaining face. It was delicious!

Madie had served it only one time to her employer when I was living there.  It was too plebeian for her at the time.  I was away the day Madie served one to Elizabeth.  The fault lay in the replacement ingredient she used.  She used whipped margarine in the pan instead of real butter, which made the egg tasteless. Madie was commanded to never serve one to her again.

When Elizabeth was not in residence though, it became a staple of our breakfasts.  I ate them, Jimmy loved and made them for himself, and Madie and Will ate them often during the week. The first ones that Jimmy made for Shelly and the girls when she became my housekeeper earned him a kiss from all three. Now we all made them. 

A quarter pound of butter, a loaf and half of bread, and two dozen large eggs would make twenty-four servings.  Elizabeth raved and I thought to myself how much she was changing. I was glad to see this, but not so much for myself.  Jimmy and his mother were connecting in ways I never thought possible. He had been without her demonstrated love most of his life. He had it now and I think it was something he would cherish forever.

Shelly was looking to Elizabeth to help organize getting our families here for the wedding and finding them a place to stay. This was my ex’s strong suit.  She was used to throwing a party or a bash on the spur of the moment. This was something that had bothered me when I was married to her.

That she, on a whim, could start calling her friends from all over the country and within a few hours have those arriving with quarters for them reserved. It seemed so pointless at the time knowing how to do this.  That was then, but this was now.  This was my wedding that was being arranged.

I had forgotten that I had invited Neil Fortier to stop by this afternoon.  He arrived about one thirty.  I introduced him to Elizabeth.  His eyebrows went up and he was somewhat puzzled when I introduced her as my ex.  She looked at him, saying, “Oh we are still friends.  I’m here visiting.  Jimmy is our son together and I have been on the continent for a few months.  John graciously has let me stay here.  I’m helping his fiancée pull things together for their wedding next Saturday.”

He turned to me. “I don’t imagine you want to talk business then, do you?  I’m pretty excited about your vision for some of the old factory building.  I’ll leave you alone and come back in a month or two.”

“No, stay.  How about a beer or even something stronger?”

“Beer is good.”

“Come out back and we’ll walk around while I tell you about some of the things I have in mind.”

Chapter Three

We had just made it to the brook when all three kids came running up to us.  Kathy said, “Mom wants you back at the house.  We kids are supposed to stay at the neighbors until you come get us.”

“Why?”

“Mom got a call from Grandma Waters about Daddy.  I think he is coming here.”  They ran down the path to the people next door.  I waited until I saw them go inside the house.

“Crap.  Shelly’s ex is not friendly like mine is.  She even had his pay garnished to get something for the kids.  I guess you had better leave.  I don’t want you to get mixed up in our problems.”

“Naw, I think I will stick around.  I would like to talk to your ex-wife.  I am curious as to why you let her get away.  She’s beautiful.”

“She is attractive.  In a way, she may be better suited to you than she was to me.  Talk to her, if you want.”

When we reached the house I asked, “What’s happening, Shelly?”

“Mom Waters called and said Ronnie isn’t taking me and you getting married very well.  He went out, got drunk last night, and has been drinking all morning. His friend Benny, and Pam who Ronnie dates, may be headed our way.  She called to warn me. Pam is driving.”

“Who is Ronnie mad at, you or me? Do you know this Benny?”

“I’ve met Benny.  He is big, but not too bright. She said Ronnie has been cussing you out steadily since last night.  She also claims Benny keeps saying, you can’t do that to his friend, and, he will fix you.  John, I’m worried.  I think I can handle Ronnie, but Benny is just too big for you. I think we should call the police.”

“I hate to, Sweetheart. If they come here, let us see if we can handle it reasonably?  Elizabeth can stand by with the phone if I can’t run away fast enough.” 

Shelly peered closely at me until I smiled and then she smiled too.  “You’re not concerned at all are you?  Well if you aren’t, then I’m not either. I remember how you handled that man who was pestering me on the thruway.”

Elizabeth asked what that was all about. Shelly went into detail. My ex-wife could not believe what she was hearing about me. “John, you never let on about being trained to fight.”

“I didn’t train to fight.  I learned how to protect myself and any other who needed protection. The occasion never arose when I was married to you.”

“Nine years I was married to you and I’m just now finding out things I wasn’t aware of.  There wasn’t another woman was there?”  She said this jokingly, so I knew she wasn’t serious.  She would have been extremely surprised if there had been. As I say, we had been true to each other while married.

“No, but there could have been.  I took my vows seriously, and you knew that.  Why are we having this conversation?”

“No reason I guess.”  Neil Fortier and Shelly had been listening to this exchange. 

“No dirty linen, damn.”  Shelly laughed when she said this, and then we all did.

Just then, a car came to a stop at the entrance to my driveway.  I opened the door and we all went out.  Ronnie came staggering up the drive.  Shelly intercepted him. A big man, who I knew must be Benny, came around them and headed for Neil, Elizabeth and me. I guess he thought Neil was the man he was looking for and charged at him.

It was for me to intercept.  Neil ducked and made way for me to face Benny.  Benny hadn’t got into his mind who he was after and still had his attention on Neil. I dropped down and balancing on my hands, I kicked with both feet as Benny came forward.  I got him good, right in the center of the gut, which sent him back peddling.  When he came for me again, I whirled and my foot caught him in the back of the thigh.  He went down this time.

Immediately he rolled over and started to puke.  Tears were coming from his eyes.  “You don’t fight fair.”

“Well, what was I supposed to do, let you hit me?”

In the meantime, Ronnie was screaming at Shelly, who was trying to talk him out of his belligerence.  Finally, she slapped him. He raised his fist, but then became aware that there were four people facing him and his friend was rolling on the ground barfing and trying to get up. He backed off and quieted down.

“Shelly, how can you do this to me?  I love you.”

“What about the woman driving your car?  Do you love her? She believed you when you said you did. Ronnie, you have been drinking and don’t know what you want.  You have to move beyond me.  I’m getting married next week.  Because of the girls, I still want to be friends.  I haven’t tried to prevent you from seeing them and I will not.

“Look at the woman standing beside John. That is his ex-wife and Jimmy is their child.  I imagine John and his ex still have some love for each other and I’m okay with that.  You and I can do the same.  I will still love you a little bit if you will only stop being such an ass.  We have two wonderful children together. It will have to be enough.”

Ronnie stood there with his head down.  His thought processes had been slowed by the amount of drinking he had done.  “Now introduce John to your girlfriend.  John is always willing to spring for a beer.  Benny needs one to sweeten his mouth, and I really would like to tell Pam about my wedding.” She motioned for Neil and Elizabeth to go get the woman from the car.

I helped Benny up. He could only hobble, for the kick to the thigh had given him a leg cramp and I imagine it would show a good-sized bruise. We all went inside and I got beer for the men.  Shelly offered wine and the girlfriend, Pam, said she would like a glass.  Pam was a cute, petite woman with brown hair and older than Ronnie. Elizabeth and Neil ducked out the back door to get the kids when Shelly asked Ronnie if he would like to say hi to his girls.

They came in and went to their father.  He kissed them on the cheek.  Kathy said, “Dad, you’ve been drinking.  You’ve got to quit.  You’re going to get into some kind of trouble if you don’t.”

“I know, Sweetheart.  This is the last beer I’m ever going to have.  Your new step-dad gave it to me and I’m just drinking it to be polite.”

“Dad you’re just as funny as ever, but I love you anyway.  Hi Benny, hi Pam, it was nice of you to drive Dad over to see us even if he is drinking.”

I helped Benny out and into the back seat of the car where he could stretch his legs and stop the pain where I had kicked him. I had a word with Pam. “Don’t bring Ronnie here again in that condition. I won’t be as easy with him as I was this time.”  She nodded that she understood. I didn’t say anything to Shelly, but Pam appeared to be too good for Ronnie.

I invited Neil to come back again as he was leaving.  “The women are all tied up with this wedding thing that is happening.” 

Shelly came up and batted me playfully. “Come by tomorrow. Come for dinner.  I’ll cook up a pot roast.”  I noticed that Elizabeth lingered beside his car and talked for several minutes before he drove away.

Before she came in, Shelly said, “Elizabeth likes Neil.  I am glad you invited him back.  She is hoping he will ask her for a date.”

“You know if it was the old Elizabeth she would have already asked him for one herself.  I suspect her bad time in Paris has colored her outlook and she has given more thought to what and how she should do things.”

“Could be.  I do know she was impressed with your actions today. I was too, but then I was not that surprised.  I do believe I have caught myself a wonderful man.”

“I’m damned impressed with you too.  I saw you slap Ronnie. Force is good when used as needed, but after that it is just unnecessary.”

“My thoughts exactly.  John, there is something that concerns the children I want to bring up.  We haven’t discussed it, but we should.”

“What is that, Love?”

“Do you want to adopt the girls and have us all with the same name?”

“It would be nice I guess. Girls though, are going to have a name change when they get married anyway.  If they do change now, then they will have two name changes. Kathy is old enough to decide.  Sandy wouldn’t understand, but we can explain and set an age when she could decide. We’ll talk to them. Let’s not get into that this week unless they bring it up.”

“Okay. John, what do you know about Neil?”

“Not much.  I haven’t had much time to talk to him yet. I do know he or his mother, Molly Fortier, own many of the old factory buildings where my warehouse is located. They have been looking for a way to find a use for them.  Go search the internet for information about the Fortier’s when you have a minute.”

Shelly went in and booted up the computer. Elizabeth wondered what she was up to when she came in and I just told her to go see.  They found a bio on a Frank Fortier, former industrialist, now deceased, that was highly interesting to them.  There wasn’t much about Neil, just his address and that he was the son of Frank and Molly (Baker) Fortier. It also stated that Neil Fortier had passed the Bar in this state two years ago.

There was nothing on Molly Fortier, except that she was the widow of Frank Fortier, deceased, and had inherited his holdings. The two women printed out what they had found and showed it to me.

Frank was more than three times Molly’s age when they married.  She had been his third wife, the other two predeceasing her. He had inherited his holdings from his father and grandfather.  As the demand for manufacturing had disappeared, Frank had to lay off his workers and then sold the equipment in the buildings. 

He had set up funds to keep the empty buildings in fair repair, which meant the roof and the foundations.  He had in mind the buildings would at some future time would become valuable again. In the meantime, they were under the care of a real estate management company.

I confirmed this as this was who I had approached to get my lease. I had only investigated deep enough to determine who actually owned the buildings.

Elizabeth asked the question, “So, is Neil worth anything or not? I don’t want to get involved with another person like Brian was.”

“Who knows?  You might date him until you discover if he is.”

“He asked me for a date just before he left.  I said I would see what my schedule was. What do you think?”

“Do you want to go out with him?”

“Yes.”

“So, you were never timid before. You certainly weren’t when you convinced me to go out with you and I ended up married to you.  That hasn’t turned out too badly has it?”

“Is that the way you really feel about me, John?”

“Now I do.”

“Thank you John.” I’ll be damned, Elizabeth got immediately emotional and we watched her go down to the back apartment.

“John, kiss me.  That was the nicest thing to say to your ex-wife.”

“If I’m so nice, how about feeding me? I’m hungry.  I have to keep up my strength for what’s to come, you know?”

“I’ll feed you, for I guarantee you will need your strength tonight and every night from now on.”

Elizabeth was done up as only she knew how to when Neil came for dinner Sunday. I suppose class showed for there was no anxiousness or gushing by either party.  You could tell though, that Neil wanted an answer to the question if she would go out on a date.  She made it easy for him. “Neil, I’ve secured tickets to a play this evening. Would you like to attend with me?”

“Certainly, I would love to escort you.  John and Shelly, that was a wonderful dinner. I must return the favor soon. If not this week then after you are married. I meant to ask you.  Will you be going on a honeymoon?”

“No honeymoon for the present.  I’m too busy right now. Elizabeth has invited us all to her place for the Christmas holidays.  Shelly and I will get away a few days at that time.  She has a large home and there is plenty of room for the kids and any other guests she happens to invite.”

Elizabeth could enter her apartment by the outside door, so Shelly and I didn’t know what time she returned from her date.  It must have been late, for she did not come to breakfast before I had to leave in the morning.  I informed all of the people who worked for me that I was taking Friday off from work.  I was getting married, for which I had to endure some kidding and ribald jokes.

Most of these people had become acquainted with Shelly over the last few months and were genuinely pleased we were getting married. I was informed that evening when I reached home that all the plans were set.  We would say our vows in a little chapel of a nearby church. 

My grandparents had insisted on paying for a wedding party dinner Friday night.  Shelly’s parents were paying for dinner after our vows were said.  There was to be no reception as such.  Both dinners were in the same room at a restaurant that Shelly and I had often frequented. 

Elizabeth had wanted big, with live music for us, but Shelly, said no way. This was our wedding and thank you for getting our guests here and reserving places for them to stay, but that was enough. We just wanted a place to celebrate with the kids being in a comfortable setting.

Elizabeth and Neil had another date on Wednesday.  I laughed as he and I were supposed to talk sometime about the empty factory buildings and what I thought would be the best use for them. They weren’t mentioned and I didn’t know when they would be. It was eight o’clock in the evening when the phone rang. Shelly answered.  “Hello.”

“May I speak with John Rheingold, please?”

“Who may I say is calling?”

“My name is Mrs. Molly Fortier. I have some questions I would like to ask him.”

“Just a minute.  He is relaxing in the living room.”

I picked up the phone.  “Yes, this is John Rheingold. What can I do for you?”

“I understand you have met my son recently.”

“I have. He was here for dinner last Sunday.”

“I also understand he and you have discussed some old buildings I have title to.”

“That is correct, but not in depth yet.  I rent one of them myself, through your management company.  Why is there some question about the lease?”

“No.  Actually, this is something more personal. It concerns your ex-wife.”

This surprised me. Then I thought she must have been trying to protect Neil from falling into some woman’s vile clutches. “I don’t think I should discuss my ex-wife with you. It just wouldn’t be right.”

“Don’t want to trash her, is that it?”

“Why would I want to do that?  She is the mother of my son. A very good mother, I might add.”

“Did she cheat on you?”

I didn’t answer her. Then I said, “You’re good.  Look, I tell you what.  I’ll meet you for an hour any place you want. We will be meeting eventually.  It might as well be tomorrow.  I’m tied up after that for the rest of this week because I’m getting married on Saturday. I will leave you with this truth. Both Elizabeth and I lived up to our vows while we were married. Now would you like to meet with me and where?”  She would be expecting me at ten in the morning at her home.

Shelly thought this was hilarious. “You know, I bet if Elizabeth had cheated on you, you would deny it. In good conscience, you cannot hurt anyone. I wish I could go meet her with you.”

“You can.  The kids will be in school.  Elizabeth can fend for herself for a couple of hours.  Why don’t you come with me?”

“Okay, I will.”  We were both curious about a woman we were to meet.  Neil was a handsome looking man, a little taller than I was.  We surmised from what we had found on the internet, Molly Fortier must be in her early to mid 40s. Other than that, we had no description of her.

I was in bed already.  “Another one of those anniversaries tonight, right?”

“What do you mean?” Then she screamed, “You proposed to me a week ago tonight.  Oh my God, how could I have forgotten?  I’ll make it up to you!”

I left Elizabeth a note that we would return about noon. She was having late nights out with Neil. Shelly and I went by the store before our meeting with Mrs. Fortier.  We received good wishes and hugs from all those present again when we shared we were planning to marry. 

Frank Fortier and his ancestors, who had built the factories, evidently didn’t want to be far from the center of their activities for they built homes close by. There were three of these large, stately, stucco, homes grouped in a little cul-de-sac. Built today, they would be considered ugly, but in the previous century they would have been considered modern and in style for these manufacturing barons.

There were two workers removing screens and putting up storm windows on the center one. The house we were looking for had already had this done.  We drove up the circular drive and stopped before the front entrance. “Do we go in the front door?”

“I don’t know.  It doesn’t look as if it gets much traffic. There is a bench with some painting supplies almost in front of it. I guess we had better find a side entrance.  There is a walk around on the left.”  We got out of the car and started around.

Just then, the front door opened, catching the corner of the bench and tipping it over, spilling cans of paint and tools.  A doll of a woman came out and looked our way putting up her hand to wait.  She scurried down the veranda and screamed at one of the workers next door.  “Billy, get your lazy ass over here and clean up this fucking mess. What in hell were you thinking blocking the door like that? I got guests to tend to and you’ve gone and made me look bad in front of them.”

She came back and beckoned us up the steps. “Hard to find good dependable help now-a-days.  Come in, I was watching for you. Neil hired that prick and didn’t do too well at it. It takes a lot of looking at a man before I would hire a person.

I couldn’t determine how old this woman was.  I knew Neil was twenty-six. She was a petite woman, only a little over five feet.  She had on a short blue dress, form fitting on top that flared out slightly and stopped two inches above her knees. Her legs were well formed and would look good on a twenty-year old.

The skin of her face was smooth and unwrinkled and her bust was just right for the size of her.  Not overly large and on a woman of Shelly’s stature it would be minuscule. She had light brown curly hair and as we came up to her, I could see it was sprinkled with a few gray hairs.  I thought she was a doll and I upgraded that to sexy doll when we were close.

“Come in.  Call me Molly and I’ll call you John.  This is your soon to be wife, I take it.”  I made the introduction. “Let’s go into the nook where I spend most of my time.  Most of this old ark is depressing after a bit. More like a mausoleum. Frank’s ancestors had money and wanted to show they had a bank full so they built big.

“It is kind of early, but would you like whiskey or something. That bullshit about not drinking before noon is just that.  I can make a pot of coffee or tea if you prefer?”

“Coffee would be fine.”

“Good, I was trying to gauge if you were a drinking man.  I have a coffee ring to go with the coffee.  Frank liked his sweet things so he made sure I learned after I came here.  I did not know from nothing, you know.  I was an orphan peddling my pussy on the streets when he found me. He brought me home, knocked me up with Neil and then proceeded to educate me.

“I slip back sometimes, and I guess you have seen that this morning. Frank’s wife before me sucked sour pickles and when he found me, he was looking for happy times. God was he ever a good man and did I ever love him.  He made me happy and I know I made him happy.  I wish he were alive today.  He’s been gone eleven years now.

“He took a time dying and set everything up so I would have an easy time of living for the rest of my life.  ’Course he didn’t know the world was going to speed up and what we had set up back then wasn’t going to last forever.  That is why I’m interested in your ex-wife.  Is she going to take what Neil has and dump him, leaving him with nothing? Neil has only a couple million left and I will tell you this, that boy needs some looking after.

“He’s my son and I love him to death.  He’s intelligent and handsome and talks good, but someone needs to light a fire under his ass. Why’d you and your wife split, anyway? Tell me about yourself.”

“Not too much to tell.  I’m working class and met a woman who wanted to change me into a rich person.  She gave me every chance to become what she wanted me to be. I have to say I gloried in it at first.  I mean if we felt like going to the Kentucky Derby or skiing in Colorado or wintering in Aruba, we did.  However, over time, I realized this year was just like last year and all we had done was make someone else a living.

“Once you have done one thing, why return? A repeat is never as good as the first time. It took Elizabeth nine years to realize I wasn’t happy, so she cut me loose.  She was good about it, understanding where I was coming from.”

“How’d you make out in your divorce?  You take her for a bundle?”

“No, we had a pre-nup agreement we both agreed too.  When we parted it made it easier for both of us.”

“How so?”

“I was ready to walk away with nothing just to get my freedom.  That really impressed her and made her realize how serious I was when we first talked about divorcing.  In the end, I opened an account for her to deliver what we had agreed on. When I got my first statement, she had doubled it. I can’t dislike a person who does that for me.  I’m using that money in my business.

“Also she is the mother of my son.  I was bitter when she demanded Jimmy live with her.  I thought I could give him more attention than she did and I could have. However, it also constrained her by having to care for him, so at the end of the last school year he came to live with me. Right now, she and I are getting along just like brother and sister and that is about the way we feel about each other. She certainly has been a big help arranging Shelly’s and my wedding.”

“I haven’t met her yet, but Neil has talked about her. What is she worth?”

“I haven’t the slightest idea.  I never knew.  Mostly, because I wasn’t interested in taking any of it.  If it ever gets serious between Neil and her, tell her your concerns and ask. A couple of things have happened lately where I’m sure she will know where she stands before getting into a long term relationship. Just talking to her will let her know your situation. I guess I have passed along enough information. Change the subject if you would.”

“I like you.  What do you want to talk about?”

“The old factory buildings.  Neil was going to fill me in, but he has been too busy to tell me about them. Do you own all of them?”

“Yep, all eight of them.  When Frank first brought me here, they were all up and running and producing. He had over twenty-seven hundred employees. Originally, they were clothing factories, but then that industry went south and he had different types of manufacturing in, but they didn’t last. Do you have any ideas on how to make them profitable again?”

“I’ve thought some on it.”

“Tell me.  To be honest, they are costing me a bundle in taxes and liability insurance.  I have them on the market and I have received some offers, but it would be cheaper to walk away and disappear.  It would save me money.  Your warehouse lease is the only income from all eight buildings.  You lucked out on that.

“The management company leased it and I didn’t read the fine print.  I find if I wanted to break the lease, it will cost me another bundle.  How’d you get so damned smart to tie it up that way?”

“That came from my association with my ex-wife.  While she was partying, I was bored and off in a corner somewhere picking the brains of some of these industry giants she associated with.” I grinned as I said this.  Molly was looking at me with speculation.

“I think I had better get closer to you. I want to get to know you. Give me a hint of what you had in mind and I’ll let you get on. Come to think of it, I might cut you in.”

“Oh I guess I would make a couple of the buildings into low cost housing. That is for the workers to live in.  Small one and two room apartments would do it.  Make a mall shopping center out of a couple buildings hitched together.

“Get a grocery chain in here and maybe a couple of discount store chains.  Do you have any money to get it started?”

Molly started laughing.  “You said to me last night I was good when I asked a question I thought you had to answer so I would know more about something. You turned it back on me and I think you are better at this than I am.” 

I laughed with her and continued, “It might not take that much money in the end. There are grants and financing out there that could be had.  You would have to hire someone to go after them and it, that is all.”

“Okay, I guess I can let you go.  You’ve given me a million things to think about.  Congratulations on getting married. I know you both will be happy. I can remember back twenty-seven years to my wedding night.  It certainly wasn’t the first time I got fucked, but it was the first time I had love.” There was just a hint of tears.

Shelly and I sat in the car before we started it. I asked, “What do you think of her?”

“She’s pretty coarse some of the time.  I have no idea how old she is.  She looks thirty, but she has to be at least forty-one or two.  Between her street smarts and what she learned from her husband, I suspect she would be hard to fool.”

“I agree. Do you like her?  I’m talking woman’s intuition here.”

“I don’t know.  I am drawn to her. Someday I’d like to hear her whole life’s story. I did get the idea she doesn’t think Neil applies himself enough.”

“I got that too. It is noon, let’s get lunch.  Are we going to warn Elizabeth that she is being investigated?”

“No, let her fly alone.”

When we got home, Madie and Will were just driving into the yard and we pulled in behind them.  Madie jumped out and came running back to me.  She came into my arms and kissed me, hugging me as tight as she could.  She did the same to Shelly.  My ex-wife had heard the cars and stood there watching this display of affection.  Not to be outdone, Elizabeth got to Will, hugged and kissed him, before continuing on to Madie.

“You’re a day early.  I’m so glad you are here.  It is a terrible long tedious trip, isn’t it?”

“Oh, we left yesterday and drove part way. We decided this morning we just had to see John and his bride, so we came along, not stopping as we first planned.  We wanted to see you too Missy. And little Jimmy, where is he?”

“He’s in school.  He and the girls will be home in another hour.”

“Are you staying here in the house with John?”

“Yes, he and Shelly have been really gracious to me.  I have a room reserved in a motel for you.  Maybe we will leave Will here and you and I can bunk together in the motel.  I never stopped long enough when I came home from Paris to tell you all about how I was treated by Brian.  I just came crying to John.  I got here and he didn’t let me cry for long.  He just told me to be smarter next time.  It was just what I needed to hear too.”

“Oh, I don’t know as I need to hear about Brian. It isn’t my place.”

“Please don’t feel that way, Madie.  I have always treated you as a servant when I should have been treating you as my friend. I can only ask you and say please again.” Madie flicked her eyes toward me. I smiled back at her and nodded.

“Okay, but don’t get upset with me if I tell you that Brian man was no good for you and I should have spoke up.”

“I’m afraid if you had, I wouldn’t have listened.  Madie, I have met a new man and I want you to meet him.  This time if you don’t think he is in my best interests, I’ll listen.”

I talked to Will, asking about his trip out.  I also inquired about the house that was my former home.  “About the same.  I’m slowing down some and the missus lets me hire a little more help for the heavy stuff.  Madie doesn’t change and keeps the house as spotless as ever. It hasn’t been bad with Elizabeth not being in residence very much.  She must have taken a hit from that fellow.  She’s acting a lot different.”

“I think she has.  It is hard to believe just how much she has changed. I thought when I was there last summer to get Jimmy, she was going to be a bitch the rest of her life.  Now she has pretty much bonded with Jimmy and with the two girls who are soon to be my daughters.  She treats the girls no different than she does him in fact. Shelly and I have made a sister of her and she appreciates it, I do believe.”

“No regrets about being divorced from her?

“Not at all and I don’t think she has any either.”

“That’s good.”

The kids came home and Jimmy had tears in his eyes when he saw Madie. He hugged her and I didn’t think she was ever going to let him go.  Neither said anything.  They did not have to, the hugs said it all. Kathy and Sandy were looking on to all of this display of affection. When Jimmy went to Will then it was the girls turn for hugs.  It made Madie’s day when Sandy said to her, “Jimmy talks about you all the time and how much he misses you. I’m so glad you came to Papa’s wedding.”

I had never heard myself called “Papa” and I would have to ask where that came from.  The kids started begging to stay home from school tomorrow.  They were rewarded. “It has all been arranged.  No school for you tomorrow.  I expect your Grandma and Grampa Beals will be here by noon and John’s grandparents promised to be here fairly early in the morning.”

By noon the next day the house was a madhouse.  Three kids raising hell and as excited as all get out. All of the adults came to believe this was going to be a match made in heaven just because of the way the kids talked about Shelly and me.  Finally after lunch, I took my grandfather, Shelly’s father Burt, and Will around to my business, just to get out of the house. At the last minute, all three kids decided to go too.

Burt had come in a van so we took that.  I wasn’t going to show them the convenience store, but they wanted to see my whole operation.  It was busy and full of customers.  I then took them to the warehouse.  A load of bakery bread came in and was being sorted.  The good items were put into trays and the old, out of date stuff were tossed onto a conveyor.

We spent an hour there watching my employees open the bread, remove the wrappings, and put it in a trash bin while the bread went up another conveyor to be ground and mixed with the beet pulp and run through a pellet machine.  It was bagged automatically and loaded onto pallets.  A sample was taken from each run and tested for food value.  This governed what I would charge for a particular pallet.

“When Shelly and I get this wedding done with, we are going to be expanding. I’m going on the road to be selling.  I have a contract for a lot more stuff coming in.  That means I am going to need more employees and a lot more customers.  I have contracted for the beet pulp and corn on an as needed basis locally. I have done a comparison on how much the animals will gain feeding my product versus regular feed, which gives me my selling point. 

“I grew this business slow to start and thought through every step along the way. My capital was limited and I had to be careful I didn’t outrun it. I’m at the point now where I would feel comfortable going to an investor for backing.” We walked to the end of the warehouse and all could see the pallets of bagged feed stored neatly in rows. “All but this last row has been sold and the money is in the bank.  I guess I’m bragging here, I’m pretty proud of what I’ve accomplished.”

“You should be.”  This was Will speaking.  My grandfather’s eyes were shining and Mr. Beals was thinking, I hope, that Shelly was going to be well looked after.

“Let’s go out to the pig farm I have an interest in.  It will be feeding time by the time we get there. It is a sight to see.”

Mr. Beals was in his middle fifties and had his own moving and storage company. He was gregarious and looked like he loved his two granddaughters immensely. “I’m going to be your grandson after tomorrow.” This was Jimmy making an announcement.

“That you will be son, and I’m proud to welcome you as one.  Let me tell you about a funny story that happened to my mother when she was about twenty-five.  She hadn’t been married too long and her and my Pa raised a few squealers.  I wasn’t on the horizon at that time.  Anyway, she took a big pail of slop down to the pen and let herself in.

“I think she said they had five good-sized hogs when this happened.  The slop was made of cooked up apples and potatoes that had corn meal in it for it was fattening time.  Pretty slimy, t’was.  Well those pigs come a-running and as she was filling the trough, one of them clipped her and she fell right into that slop-filled trough.

“She was right on her back and couldn’t get herself out laying right in there in the slop.  The slop was under her and those pigs wanted it ferociously. They were slobbering all over her and squealing all to beat the band.  Pa heard her and he headed for the pen.  Just as he got there, one of them pigs got his snout under her shoulder alongside of her head and flipped her right out.  Ma was bruised up some when the pigs crowded in to eat and stepped on her.

“Pa got to her and helped her into the house and got her into the bathtub and cleaned her up.  She wasn’t hurt much, but that isn’t the end of the story.  When the neighbors came by some time later, Pa was telling what happened. He ended the story by saying he saw Ma with pigs all around her and couldn’t get out of the trough, so she leaned up and kissed a pig and that pig went around and boosted her right out of there.

“Ma didn’t speak to Pa for two days it made her so peeved.  I tried getting smart one time when I was mad at Ma and I asked her if she had ever kissed a pig.  Well she exploded all over me and that was the only time I ever asked her that, let me tell you.  Anyway that is my pig story and it is all true.” We were all laughing as we pulled into the pig farm.

*****************

 “Come on kids.  Get dressed. You’re late.  John what were you thinking going out to the pig farm this late?”

“Mama, Mama!”

“What is it Sandy?”

“Mama have you ever kissed a pig?”

Shelly turned on her father, “Damn it, Dad, why did you have tell that story to the kids? You know Grandma wanted that story to die with her.  Now another generation has heard it and it will go on forever. I hope she is waiting at the gates to paddle you again just like she did once before.”  We all broke up laughing and Shelly did too.

We had a room reserved in the restaurant.  This was where we were eating tomorrow as well right after the ceremony. We had a choice off the regular menu of fish, beef or chicken.  “We do have a couple servings of roast lamb that can be ordered.  Not everyone’s favorite, I know.”

That is what I ordered because it was rarely served and I enjoyed it immensely. This was a small wedding party and no one drank too much. I had been informed that Elizabeth had a date tonight, but would sleep at the motel with Madie and dress and go to the services from there.

Jimmy was going to escort Elizabeth in to her seat and then stand at my side while the vows were uttered.  Kathy and Sandy would be standing by Shelly. When we left the chapel, we would be one family.

We didn’t stay late at the restaurant.  The day had been busy and tomorrow would be likewise. Shelly was talking to her parents and the kids were all in bed. In just a few short months, my life had changed so much and for the better.

I promised myself before going to sleep that I would someday write it all down just as I lived it. A four-month segment of one’s life and all that had happened should make a good story. I had listed all the issues I had with Elizabeth and come to grips with them all. I guess we both had changed and matured. Now I certainly did not feel the resentment I had for her four months ago.

Maybe it wasn’t she.  It might just have been me out of my element.  Oh well, time to sleep. Tomorrow I would be moving on, realizing Elizabeth hadn’t taken it all. In fact, I could look at myself in the mirror and declare I had all of my respect back.

---

We all made it to the chapel on time.  Jimmy escorted his mother in so she could sit with Madie and Will.  Shelly had dressed in Madie’s motel room with Elizabeth supervising. This was pretty informal.  We would all be going down the aisle together. Jimmy came back and stood waiting while Shelly entered and came up beside me.  The two girls and Jimmy followed us down the aisle behind us as Shelly and I walked ahead.  The very few tears that were shed were all of happiness.

Before the vows started, I leaned over and whispered to Shelly, “You are very beautiful this afternoon. And who are these two little ones with you?  I think they are as beautiful as you are.” I guess this was the right thing to say for the love just shone from her face.  

The minister entered and asked if everyone was ready to begin. It was a short nine minutes later, I kissed my bride and my two new children.  Jimmy got a kiss and hug from his new Mom. In addition, we turned to receive well wishes from Elizabeth and the three couples we had chosen to witness this event.

We put our coats on and walked down the street three places to the restaurant. We were put into the same alcove room we had last night.  Today we didn’t order off the menu.  It was a turkey dinner with the things that would go with any Thanksgiving.  We had champagne and the kids a sparkling cider.

Someone wrapped their glass and suggested the bride and groom kiss. Sandy came around by my chair and asked if she could kiss her Papa.

“How come you call me Papa?”

“I have two fathers now.  I don’t want to get them mixed up even though I love you both. So I’m calling one father, Daddy, and I am calling you Papa.  Is that okay?”

“I think that is so sweet.  Did you think of it all by yourself?”

“Yes I did. Jimmy is going to call you Pop and Kathy is going call you Dad.” We lingered over our dinner until Elizabeth said, “There is a family dance hall across from here. Everyone should dance at his or her wedding. Would you like to check it out?”

We all thought it was a good idea.  Our vehicles were still in the church parking lot and we figured it was a good place to leave them.

There was a bar on the premises, but no alcohol was allowed in the dance hall. The dances were mostly waltzes with an occasional fox-trot and polka.

Shelly knew the schottische and the bandleader came on the microphone and walked everyone through the steps before playing the tune without stopping. I had never danced it before, but was so attuned to my new wife, I soon had the steps. 

Actually, this was a circle country dance in polka tempo.  More than half the dancers knew the steps already. There were three circles formed. The music played until the partner you started with had danced with a different partner around the circle until you returned to your own.  Jimmy collaborated with Sandy for the first set and then with Kathy the next. 

Elizabeth was out of her element and could not quite put the steps together. She had been sidelined because she didn’t know the moves, but a man took her aside and was willing to teach her the steps.  She danced with him the last dance in the set and several times after that.  Why not?  She was a beautiful woman.

It was a surprise when Ronnie and Pam came in, which thrilled the two girls and they went running to their father and his girl friend.  Shelly and I did dance one dance with them, but Ronnie was uncomfortable and they didn’t stay long.  Pam looked envious at Shelly, now a married woman again. 

A little after nine, Elizabeth came up to Shelly and me.  She smiled saying, “Mr. and Mrs. Rheingold.  I think I will take the kids home.  Madie will be with Will in the back apartment.  You have the use of the motel room tonight that she and I used.  Goodnight.”

My grandparents bailed shortly after that.  Shelly’s folks stayed until eleven and then they left too. The dances from eleven on were waltzes, so I had my wife in my arms the rest of the evening. Shelly and I stayed to the last dance and then went over to the motel room.

We were shortly in bed snuggled as close as possible. We laid there and talked about our life up until this point.  I don’t know who went to sleep first, but we awoke to the sun shining. We tenderly made sure our marriage was legal.

Chapter Four

The phone rang, “Papa, Jimmy is making Warwicks.  Are you coming for breakfast?”

“Yes Sandy, we’ll be there in a few minutes.” It was a wonderful lover’s night we had shared. Now it was time to return to the normal.

It was a scramble with everyone leaving.  This included Elizabeth who was following Madie and Will home. Shelly and I promised we would get around and visit everyone as time and the kids in school permitted. By noon, the house was empty of all but the John Rheingold family. The kids had school lessons to do to make up for being absent on Friday.

Shelly was curled up across the room in one recliner. I was in a corner of the couch. I guess I dropped off.  I roused once and Kathy had stretched out on the couch with her head in my lap.  Jimmy and Sandy were in the other recliner, both asleep cuddled together.  It is wonderful how the kids got along so well with each other.

Monday in the evening, Neil Fortier called asking to speak to Elizabeth.  “Elizabeth returned to the east, yesterday.  I thought she called to tell you before she left.  She tried to reach you at least three times.”

“Um, yes, well I was busy and not available.  Maybe she will call me later.” I wondered why he didn’t ask for her phone number and call her. I did not want to get involved, as it wasn’t any of my business. 

Days and weeks of contentment melded together. Of concern was a call that Shelly received from Pam Johnson, Ronnie’s girlfriend.  “Shelly, I’m afraid Ronnie is going to get laid off from work soon.  It always seems to happen in the fall. If he does, then you won’t be getting any support money for Kathy and Sandy.  I wish he could find something that would pay him a steady year-round wage.  I’m really sorry about this.”

“I well know all about this cycle he is in.  I was married to him. I suppose we will make out all right. John seems to be able to keep going.  It will slow his plans considerably. He had plans in place to expand his business.  Thanks Pam, for the heads up.” 

“Hey, big man, any answers on how we are going to get our support money for the kids?”

“Shelly, we aren’t that bad off.  We’ll make out okay.”

“Oh, I know we will. I hate it that Ronnie is always saying he is sorry because he can’t pay for what are clearly his responsibilities.  It makes me feel as if I married you under false pretenses.”

“Shelly, if Ronnie gets laid off, I’ll think of something.  Give your ex some credit.  He always goes after a job.  Maybe he didn’t used to, but since he got together with Pam, he has.”

“You like Pam don’t you?”

“Yes I do.  I would like to see her and Ronnie married.  I think she would like to start a family with him, but she knows she can’t when he can’t even pay for the kids he has.  Of course her own work is only spotty and isn’t that steady. She does some writing, I understand.

“I feel bad about the whole situation.  I do feel good about a man who opened a door a few months ago and saw something he liked enough to marry her.”  Shelly came over, climbed onto my lap, and kissed me.

“I have an itch that needs scratching.  Any ideas?” I didn’t make a comment.  Action always speaks louder than words. 

We settled into married life easily.  Both of us had been married before, but this was much better than either of us had experienced the first time out. I was making changes in my business and busy, but it was great coming home at night.

I sold my interest in the convenience store for six thousand more than I had paid for it.  This gave me the chance to expand the equipment and my workforce in the warehouse. What I took in from the sale of day-old goods at the discount bakery as I expanded almost made up for what I derived from the convenience store. 

I also convinced my partner at the pig farm to store my inventory off site  I had the room, the power, and the people to operate machinery. It only took a couple of days to move equipment. Within a week, we were in production at that location.

I hadn’t heard from Neil until one day he came into my warehouse and barged into my office.

“Do you keep in touch with your ex-wife?”

“No, I don’t.  Jimmy talks to her at least once every week. Why?”

“Did you know she is selling her house and moving out here?”

“I didn’t, but it doesn’t surprise me.  Have you been talking to her?”

“No damn it. I have a friend who is a realtor. He told me. He got onto the fact when she asked if he knew you and where your business was. Seems she is thinking of relocating here.  I’ve called and left messages on her phone and I have talked to her housekeeper once. I never get a call back, though. I can’t figure out why she won’t take my call.  Any ideas.”

“Let’s think this through.  I know she tried to call you before she left the weekend Shelly and I were married. Knowing what happened to her just before that, I would guess she thought you were a player and for some reason you were trifling with her. Where were you that weekend and what were you doing?”

“I was doing a favor for mother.  She asked me to take an old friend of hers out to dinner and then deliver the woman back to the rest home where she lives. It tied me up most all of that Sunday.”

I grinned. “And what would Molly say if Elizabeth got through to her on the phone?  Look, I know your mother was worried about the divorcée who her son had escorted out several times after just meeting him.”

“The interfering bitch.  What right does she have?  I’m twenty-six for God’s sake.”

“Hey calm down. She is protecting you. You may not want to hear this, but she is worried about you. You are living on a trust fund your father set up for you. I don’t know how much it started out as, but it must have been a lot. She said you only had a couple of million left and just played at living. She as much as called you a playboy.”

“I am, but she doesn’t know it all.  Sure, I am a playboy, but I have been moving some of my trust fund into investments with better returns. The two million she talks about is what she sees.  It started out as seven million. I’ve added about a million dollars a year in the five years I’ve had control of the fund. Between my investments and the original it now totals about twelve million.”

“I can’t even imagine having that amount. I know I was married to money at one time, but I never considered it mine.”

“Was she willing to share? I mean you were married to her.”

“I guess she would have.”

“I’d say you screwed up.”

“You might think that, but I wouldn’t swap what I have now for any amount of money.  I’d say to call your mother and find out if she talked to Elizabeth about what she said to her.”

“Thanks, John.  You know I didn’t know your wife very long, but I was really taken with her.”

“Ex-wife.”

“Yeah, I forgot.  Thanks for divorcing her.”  He couldn’t get it right.  She divorced me.  He hung around watching the women who were stripping cellophane off bread loaves and finally said, “Guess I should talk to my mother.”

“Good luck.” I immediately made a call to Molly. “Molly, John Rheingold.  You should have a little more faith in Neil.  I have.”

“Hi, John.  What do you mean?”

“Not saying. On a different subject, have you thought anymore about what we talked about a few weeks ago?”

“It’s on my mind constantly. I want to do something with those buildings.  Kind of like a monument or something to Frank. I’ve been talking to Ted Theobold, the man Frank left in charge of them.  Trouble is the man is getting almost ready to cut out.  Unless you want to go through each building, why don’t you come over, talk to him, and have him tell you all about each one.”

“He is living with you?”

“No, he won’t stay overnight or sleep in the same bed as Frank did when he was alive. He lives alone in the smallest of these three houses. The one that looks as if it was falling down.  Actually, it is the one that has had the interior updated and is the most modern. He does come over and tries to keep my fires banked. It is a losing battle though, his age and all.”

I was silent running through my mind what she had just said. “John, I’m in my forties and don’t go out unless I absolutely have to.  What do you expect?”

“I don’t know.  What I mean is I don’t know you well enough yet to know what to expect.”

“You will eventually.  For now, I’ll expect you at three this afternoon.” I didn’t leave the office.  I sat in my chair and thought about Molly. Something did not seem right about her. She swore like a trooper. She was acting now as if she was no different from when her future husband picked her off the streets.  In addition, I suspected she wasn’t above fabricating a few untruths.

Frank had to have been in his late forties or early fifties when he found Molly. I couldn’t believe a pillar of the community like him would appear anywhere with her acting as she was acting now.  She had to have left her streetwalker image behind her at some point. Molly apparently wanted me to become involved with her. The question was why?

I arrived right at 3 p.m.  Molly met me at the door and ushered me into the same area where we were seated before.  Sitting there was a nice looking man I estimated to be in his late fifties. Molly said he was getting old, but he looked virile enough. “Ted Theobold, meet John Rheingold.”  We shook hands.

“The Missus tells me you have some crazy idea about renovating and turning the old factories into something useful. What is it you wish to know about the buildings?”

“I don’t know what she told you, but she is the one who brought it up. I’m from the east and have seen this accomplished in several of the old mill towns.  That is if the buildings are solid and not too far from the public and transportation.  I chose to lease the warehouse because the beltway is close by.  That takes care of getting material in and out and the people as well. To me there are enough buildings to make a nice complex of varied businesses and housing.”

“I have the original blueprints and all of the old notes from the architects who saw to the construction. Frank had some idea of what you are talking about before he died. I’ve overseen these buildings since he passed on.  They are just as solid today as when they were built more than a century ago. One reason is what they are set on.  The foundations are set on a granite plate that extends under this whole area.

“They all have one level below the street, but that is as far down as they can go. You notice all of the windows are boarded up on the first two stories.  That is just to protect them from vandals and squatters getting in. I have two men who patrol the area once a week and check to see if everything is secure.”

“I know I’ve become acquainted with them. I have them keep an eye on the warehouse.” 

“That still goes with the rest of the buildings and you don’t own it. You only have a lease.”

Ted was sitting across the table from me.  Molly was on the side where I didn’t directly look at her.  She hadn’t uttered a word since I was introduced. Ted though, had glanced at her several times. I was seeing something I think he was hiding and for all she said I would be surprised if they were ever intimate.

“What do these buildings have for heating plants?”

“There are three boilers for high pressure steam in the center structure. There is one smoke stack as you can see coming from that one. Your warehouse is heated by its own small hot water boiler. Once a year they are fired up and started. All of the piping is examined and checked for leaks.  That is for the first floor.  The piping would have to be replaced on the other floors if they are used for housing or offices. 

“Of course years ago, the boilers were fired with coal, but it was dirty and it took a lot more manpower to keep the boilers going. It will be damned expensive with what the price of oil is now.”

“All the price of doing business.”

“So what are you doing with Missus Fortier?”

“I have no idea.  She is the one who keeps contacting me.  I talked to Neil one time and they seem to think I have some kind of vision. I cannot say I have much knowledge other than I have been associating with a number of rich industrial businessmen.  I listened to them discuss what they were doing in their lives.  They were all getting richer as I listened.

“I will say with the right consortium the properties these buildings are sitting on are worth millions. If these buildings are destroyed, a good bit of our history is destroyed at the same time.”

I was silent for a minute.  Molly and Ted felt I wasn’t finished. “With the economy as it is right now, the state and the federal government would jump all over themselves to lend, or grant money to a group that would do the rehab and put so many unemployed workers back to work. You not only have the construction jobs that are short term, but the long-term jobs of the people employed when the new businesses come in.

“Plus, if you put a couple of these buildings into housing, that gives you a ready available work force.”

“God, you’ve thought this thing through.  You sound a lot like Frank did when he got excited about doing something.”

Molly rose and came around behind me, resting her hand on my shoulder. “I told you Ted, this man had vision.”

Ted put a question to me. “What are you looking to get out of this?”

“I didn’t know I was even into getting anything.  I have just been giving out a few of my thoughts.  I’ve rented one building to run a business. I have an option and a lease that is ironclad, which is something that upsets Molly.  She has said so because it would cost her a bundle to buy me out of the option.  I’m pretty happy with what I’m doing and I don’t know as I would want to change anything.”

“You can’t help yourself. I’ll bet this is the subject you think about most of the time. I will go get some of the drawings and blueprints I have collected concerning the buildings.  I will be back in a half hour.  That is if you are interested.” He stood there grinning at me.  I shrugged and nodded.

He walked out the front door and headed toward his house.  “John we have time for a quicky.  I bet you’d like to try out this old lady.”

I had got up to watch Ted leave.  I was disgusted.  I sat down in my chair and looked at Molly. “Molly, what you need is a spanking. You come around talking dirty and making suggestions.  I notice you don’t talk that way to the man who loves you.”

“What do you mean?  Who loves me?”

“Ted loves you. You said on the phone he comes over and banks your fires, but you have never said a thing out of line to him have you?  You want me to think you are still a fifteen year old prostitute, but it is all an act.  Shelly noticed it and you are so obvious.  If you really want someone to cherish you again, let Ted know what you want.”

“He has never indicated to me he would be interested.”

“He is. His problem is that he worked for your husband all of his life and Frank charged him to look after the property when he died.  Frank didn’t go far enough.  He should have charged Ted to look after you as well. One other thing, you twitch your butt around in front of me and you know it is safe because I have a new wife and I love her.  You are just getting your jollies and it just makes you look cheap.

“I suspect you and Ted want me to become a consultant to further your dream of creating some kind of a monument to your husband. I won’t, if you don't stop your foolishness and start playing straight. I don’t like being played.”

Molly peered at me intensely.  “Okay, you’ve passed a test of sorts. I had to know how serious you were about implementing your vision. I have a check for your services to date working in my behalf as a consultant.  Do you want to say anything more before Ted gets back with the drawings of the buildings?”

“Yes.  First, if I continue, give Neil some respect. I am going to want him involved with this.  He is an attorney and I need him as another consultant.  He loved his father and he will work his heart out to help. Be a mother when you are having him in for dinner or when he takes you out.  The women he goes out with are his choice and it is not a mother’s job at his age to control his choice of women. You’d feel terrible if he tried to interfere with your love life.”

“But I don’t have a love life.”

“I told you a little bit ago what and where yours is.”  I grinned.  “I can tell you, but that isn’t Neil’s place either.  With me, it is just a suggestion. You could start by inviting Ted tonight to a home-cooked dinner to discuss me. Take it from there.  I can’t believe you have forgotten all of your enticing ways.”

Ted came back with the blueprints and as he handed them to me, I said, “Molly has hired me to be a consultant and explore this project enough to see if it is feasible.  I suggested that Neil become involved.  He can get answers as an attorney that I can’t.  We also should find an architect to talk with.  We need to talk to a financial planner to see where the financing could come from.  Molly, you decide how much money you are willing to put into this.  Neil might want to put some of his in as well.”

“He’s spent most of his inheritance already.”

“Well you might not want to admit you know that.  Make the suggestion anyway.”

“Okay, I guess I can do that.  I’m going to need someone to get my figures in order. Didn’t I hear your wife say she was an accountant?”

“She was and she is considering returning to work part time.  If you feel as if you want another Rheingold involved, call and talk to her.”

“You do it.”

“Nope.  This is your personal business.  I’ll want to see how much money you come up with for the project, but I don’t need to know more than that.”

“She’ll tell you, so what’s the difference?”

“She won’t.  She is the most ethical person I have ever met.  I guess this is all we can cover for today.  Ted, I’ll go through these blueprints and be in touch.  It will be a couple of days.  I have a business to manage and can’t spend all of my time on this.”

“John, I promised you a check.”  Molly must have known earlier where this was heading with me being employed, because the check was all made out.  Why did I feel she was a step ahead of me most of the time? I glanced at it. I was struck speechless.  “Yes, that amount is correct.  That brings you up until you walk out the door today. We start new tomorrow.” 

I think Shelly and family were going to eat out tonight.  We certainly could afford it.

I swung by the warehouse and found everything closed.  My hour with Molly had taken two and a half hours instead of the one I had planned. I called Shelly and told her I was taking the family out for dinner, but I found I was too late.  In fact, if I didn’t hurry home, I would be eating crackers and milk myself. I was met with a barrage of questions about my meeting.

“I’m now a high paid consultant to a project that doesn’t have a name yet. Actually, I am putting together a feasibility study to see if it can go anywhere.  However, I am being paid for it. Great, huh?”

“You’re not the only one working on it.  I just got off the phone with Molly Fortier myself.  I’m going to be helping her a few hours a day.  She also said she wants to meet our kids sometime.  She’ll be here for a noon dinner on Saturday.  She said she might be bringing some man named Ted with her.  She would let me know tomorrow.  He’s the guy living in the third house isn’t he?”

I whispered to Shelly, “That depends on whether she gets laid tonight by Ted,” and I chuckled.

“Hey kids go in the living room and turn the TV up loud. I want to talk with your Dad.”

Jimmy and Kathy giggled, thinking I wanted to kiss their Mom.  When the three kids disappeared Shelly said, “What did you do and why?”

“I had to do something.  She told me we had time for a quicky when Ted left for a little while. I told her she should be spanked and she was foolish not to look to the one who had hidden love for her.  Now I may have read Ted wrong, but I do think he does love Molly.  I said she should seduce him.  Maybe not in so many words, but that is what I meant. I honestly didn't think Molly was aware of how Ted feels about her. 

“She has always looked on Ted as still an employee of her husband’s. I could see wheels turning in her head as I left. Left with this great big check I brought home to you.”

“She bought you.”

“Part of my mind, maybe, but not my body.  How about you? Do you feel she bought you?”

“Yeah, I suppose, but we can use the money.”

“I agree about the money.  I suppose I have deluded myself into thinking that someday my business is going to give us everything we want in the world, but deep down I know it won’t be enough.”

“Elizabeth said she would see to all of the kids’ education, not just Jimmy’s.”

“I know, but I don’t feel it is right. The girls are mine now and it is up to me to do for them.”

“You really love them don’t you?”

“You better believe it.”

“When are we going to bring up the idea about you adopting the girls?  Do you still want to let them choose for themselves?”

“I do.  I hope they will agree to take my name and I will talk to convince them so we can all have the same name. However, I won’t force them to. Sandy I know will, but Kathy may object.”

“Yeah, my thoughts exactly. Kathy is now twelve and is almost a teenager.  Sandy is ten. I have taught them to think for themselves and I guess Jimmy always has. Three kids with a one year difference between each.  Too bad they are all in different classes.  It would be nice if two of them were in the same school year.”

“It’s not going to happen.  Kathy is too smart to flunk a grade and so isn’t Jimmy.  Sometimes I think Sandy is the most intelligent. Too bad she is so quiet all the time.”

“Do you want to bring up about the adoption tonight?”

“Sure, otherwise they would think you and I wanted a minute alone for kissing and stuff.”

“Keep it in mind, mainly that stuff you were just talking about.”

Shelly led off with, “Kids, we are having what I would call a family meeting. Girls, your new father wants to know if you two girls want to be adopted by him and take the name, Rheingold.  If you do that, we will all have the last name of Rheingold. You don’t have to make up your mind tonight.  You can do it now or a year from now.  Remember when you marry you have the choice of taking your husband’s name.  Most women do.”

I was waiting for immediate acquiescence.  It wasn’t forthcoming. “Pop, Kathy and Sandy and I have talked about this.  I want them to be a Rheingold so they can truly say they are my sisters. Kathy has said she wants to and can tell you herself.  Sandy has asked me to ask how mad you would be if she stayed as Sandra Waters?”

I looked at Sandy. She had her head down, with tears dripping from her eyes. I did want Sandy to have my name, but I wouldn't pressure her. I spoke directly to her. “I won’t be mad or upset at all.  Remember you can change your mind on this now or later or not at all.  I’ll love you just as much either way.  Your Mom and I just thought it might be more convenient, that is all.”

“Papa, I do love you as much as my daddy, but Daddy lost Mom and in a way he is losing Kathy.  It won’t be fair if when I am staying or visiting with him if he says I am his little girl and I have a different name. Someday, he will marry Pam and I like her a lot too.”

Shelly was as surprised as I was.  “Sandy, are you sure?”

She nodded her head answering, “I think so. You aren’t mad at me either, are you?”

“No, but I think you are awful young to decide. John and I agreed it would be you girls’ decision and we are just surprised.  I’ll get the paperwork ready for Kathy.  You know I named you Sandy Waters because it put me of mind of looking down into a sandy brook and see the sun shining on the sand in the bottom.”  Sandy ran and gave her mother a kiss, and then ran and gave me the same.

It was bedtime and I detained Jimmy for a minute.  Jimmy, what is your mother doing now? You talk to her every week.”

“She doesn’t say much.  She says she is awful busy and someday is going to have a big surprise for me.  I have no idea what it can be. 

“Pop, don’t be mad about Sandy not taking our name.  I think it is because of something I said to her.  Mom said when she was with that Brian guy that I might be adopted by him and had to have his name.  It was an awful name and I couldn’t even say it right. I told Sandy how I felt about it, so it must be my fault.”

“I wondered why, but really, I’m kind of proud of her thinking of her father like that. I’m glad of how you felt about me too.”

“You’re the best, Pop.”

It was an interesting conversation when Shelly and I retired for the night.  Shelly was afraid I would feel slighted when Sandy didn’t go with the program. “I don’t at all.  Jimmy told me he was responsible for her rejecting the name change.  It was how Jimmy felt with something that Elizabeth planned when he was living with her.  Sandy will probably change her mind anyway.  Nothing to worry about.”

“Oh I love you so much.  Johnny, there is something we have never discussed.  I think we should.  I’d like to have you tell me first so I would know how you feel.  I’ll be perfectly honest and tell you what I want even if it is different than what you want.”

“What’s this you calling me Johnny?  Elizabeth called me that a month ago, which she never did before.  Now you call me Johnny.  What gives?”

“I don’t know about Elizabeth, but when I imagine you as a child, I see a ragged little boy pulling a red wagon with one hand and a thumb in his mouth with the other.  That’s how I see you, Johnny.  God, you must have been cute.”

I burst out laughing.  “Okay Sweetheart, we’ll have a baby and if it is a boy, we’ll name him Johnny.”

“How did you know I wanted a baby?  I have never said anything.

“Hey, we married and became one in mind as well as in body.  Why wouldn’t I know what you were thinking?”

“Come on, how did you know?”

“I just guessed, honest.”

“I don’t believe you.”

“I just put it all together.  The calling me Johnny, the worry about whether we could finance the kids’ education, and you also jumped at the chance for a little work from Molly.  I brought home a good-sized amount of money myself and the thought crossed my mind we could now afford to have a baby.  Deduction my dearest Mrs. Rheingold.”

“You’re pretty smart, you know.  I love you.  Are we going to plan a baby or just let it happen?”

“Let’s just let it happen.  It’s going to take a lot of practicing though.”

“Works for me.”

I went to the warehouse early in the morning.  I had spent too much time at Molly Fortier’s yesterday to finish my daily work.  Some things you just can’t let slide.  It was eight-thirty when Shelly called saying she was not to see Molly until mid afternoon.  She was unexpectedly busy this morning.

I laughed, thinking that it must be Ted who was keeping her busy.  I was hoping so anyway.  I shook my head.  I kept turning Molly down when she kept suggesting we go for a quicky, but damn Molly was a desirable woman.  No, she could not tempt me that far, but there was a “what if” in the back of my mind.

It was nearly ten when my office door banged open and Neil came charging in. He was sputtering and it was all incoherent.  “Neil, sit and I’ll pour you coffee. Wait, I’ll get doughnuts off the line.” I came back with a box of raised doughnuts and handed him one.  “Now tell me what the problem is?”

“It’s Mother. She never allowed me into her room when the door was closed. I went over there this morning and was going to give her hell about driving Elizabeth away.  She wasn’t downstairs so I went up to her room.  Her door was open, so I charged right in. She was---she was---damn it, she was naked sitting up in bed with a breakfast tray in front of her.

“There was a man with her. He had pulled the covers over his head when he heard me coming.  Mother has never had a man in bed that I knew of since before my father passed away.  Mother poked him, saying it was just me.  It was Ted Theobold.  He was naked too. I can’t believe it.  Mother and Ted?”

I had to laugh at Neil as he continued. “I couldn’t take it.  I grabbed Mother’s robe from a chair and threw it at her.  She didn’t put it on, just draping it around her neck.  At least it covered up her ti---her breasts.  She thought the whole thing was hilarious.”

“And then what happened?”

“When she stopped laughing, she took a bite of cruller and a sip of coffee and asked if I wanted a cup. She then announced she and Ted were a couple and had been discussing it all night long. Then she told me to thank you if I saw you.  What did she mean? What have you got to do with it?”

“Forget what you saw a little while ago, if you can.  Yesterday afternoon I had a consultation with your mother and Ted. Molly wants to explore developing the buildings into something that would be a monument to your father. This is something you should become involved in doing.  Actually, you would be a necessary part of the project. Interested?”

“In what capacity?”

“As the attorney. If the project goes forward, there will be a long permit process and the planning commission. Some serious environment hurdles to jump---you know, all that law stuff.”

“Whose idea is this and who is involved so far.” 

“Me, your mother, Ted, and Shelly is going to be helping your mother organize her finances.  If it goes forward, it is going to take millions of dollars.  Some of that money will have to be spent before we even know if the project is viable.”

“How long will it take to complete if it looks doable?”

“I’d say four to five years.”

“That long? Wow! How about you?  You claim you just want to be a pig farmer.  Are you going to bail on the project before it is done?”

“Neil, to tell the truth, pig farming isn’t ever going to educate my kids and I’m smart enough to realize it.  I tell you I’m getting pretty damned excited about this project. No, I will not bail if it starts.  Molly has hired me as a consultant and paid me some already.  The check looked good to me when she handed it over. I don’t want to be rich, rich like my ex-wife, but I would like a little more than I have now.”

Neil was silent and then asked, “John, would you get Elizabeth on the phone so I can talk to her? I didn’t get a chance to hit my mother with what she might have done. Finding her as I did, I don’t think she can throw up roadblocks in front of me anymore.  If I can get your wife to talk to me, I think I can straighten it out.”

“That’s ex-wife. You keep forgetting that.”

“I do, don’t I?  Will you call?”

“Sure.” I made the call and Madie answered.

“Hi, Madie, how are you?”

“I’m great John. Is everything all right?”

“Yes, everyone is fine.  Madie, is Elizabeth in?  I’d like to speak to her if she is.”

“I’ll get her for you. Hang on.”

“Hi John.  Is Jimmy okay?”

“He’s good and in school.  Elizabeth, would you answer a question for me?  Why won’t you return Neil’s calls?”

I passed the phone to Neil as she started speaking. As she finished he answered her, “Mother was interfering.  This is between you and me. That Sunday you left, she kept me away from the phone with a seventy-year-old woman friend of hers. John knows all about it. All I want is a date with you so we can discuss if there is any future together for us.”

I couldn’t hear what my ex-wife was saying, but from the body English, Neil liked what he was hearing. He continued, “Elizabeth, I’ll see you in two days.”  He hung up the phone and looked across at me. “I got me a date. You know, I think this is the start of something good. I’m going home and pack up.  I’ve been invited to stay for a week.”

“What about the project?”

“Ask Mother. I warn you, though, I don’t think she intends to get out of bed anytime soon.  She and Ted shooed me out of there and they had already finished their coffee.”  He grinned at me and then burst out laughing.  I had to laugh with him. Shelly called at noon saying Molly had called her back and put off her coming to see her until tomorrow afternoon.  Those two, Molly and Ted must be insatiable.

“Shelly, as long as you don’t have to work today, drive over here to the warehouse and go out to the pig farm with me.  I have to deliver a load of feed. You can even drive.  I’ll sit in the passenger’s seat and admire your profile.”

On the way, we talked about our future. I knew Molly would pay my wife well and the few hours a week would help our financial situation tremendously.

“How involved are you going to get with the rehab of the Fortier project?”

“I’m going to be into it up to my neck.  I think I can do a good job for them too. I’m still going to keep my business going for the project will not last forever.  It will take about five years to complete the reconstruction.  By that time, the bakery and the pig farm will be as about as big as it can get.  After that it will be a matter of diminishing returns.”

“How so?”

“Costs of transporting the material to the warehouse and then moving the feed to other farms that aren’t as close by. This will eat up all of the profits.  I’m looking ahead.  Of course, there may be something ongoing here with the Fortiers. I think Neil will end up at the head of the corporation. I imagine Molly will be only the figurehead.  Of course, if Neil doesn’t want any part of it, there will be room for an outside person. It could be me.”

“You’re planning pretty far ahead.”

“Hey, I have a family I have to care for.”

“John, Molly is terribly attractive. I’m not going to have to worry about you and her am I?”

“No. I made a vow to you and I always keep my vows.”

“I do too.” It was a great afternoon.  The kids in school and us with a little free time to enjoy talking to each other without interruption. Shelly was actually a better truck driver than I was and it was a joy to watch her work herself up through the gears.  She seemed to know instinctively the best time to shift. It was days like this that brought a couple together and cemented their relationship.  Especially when we had only known each other for a few months.

I called Ted Theobold’s house the next morning, getting no response.  Grinning to myself, I tried Molly’s number. “Ted there?”

“Who’s this?”

“This is the person who made sure you were satisfied for the first time in years.”

“Hi John.  If you were right here, right now, I would kiss you. Ted and I have wasted so much time. We have managed to catch up just a little though.  What can I do for you?”

“I was wondering if Ted would take time to walk me through the buildings?”

“What makes you think he can still walk?”

“I’m betting he can.  You would want to save some for later, so I think you were smart enough to stop before you took all he had.”

“Ted is in the shower.  Come by and collect him in an hour. His breakfast is on the table, so he will be good to go by the time you get here.  John, thank you so much. My life is a whole lot brighter this morning.”

“You are welcome. I was glad I was there when I saw the look in Ted’s glances and knew he loved you.  I’ll see you soon.” I hung up the phone feeling well satisfied myself.  At least I wouldn’t be propositioned for a quicky again.

Chapter Five

Ted had little to say until we reached the main building where the boilers were located.  They were massive.  The boiler room was spotless and the floor was painted a battleship gray.  Much of the piping was copper and I could see it was kept polished in and around the gauges. The gauges themselves were of brass. It made a beautiful sight.  Over on the far edge of the room there was a diesel engine that turned a generator.

“The generator is just for the boilers and the pumps, not for the whole plant.  We don’t often lose power, but if we did, it is a bear to recycle everything and get the boilers restarted. Part of that problem is not having the force draft powered up for the smokestack.”

“I’ll take your word on everything.  I don’t know anything about the operation.”

“Do you want to see where the oil is stored? The tanks are in an underground bunker and they are accessible to view. They have to be checked for leakage and deterioration. They were installed fifty years ago and guaranteed for seventy-five. You never know, though. When and if they do have to be replaced it will be a major undertaking because they are so huge. I won’t be around to be involved, thank God.”

We toured two of the buildings.  There was no equipment of any sort.  There was no trash either, just empty space.  There were freight elevators, which was something I hadn’t given any thought being needed here.  There would have to be modern lifts installed when the remodeling was undertaken. I remarked that having granite underneath all the area was a plus.  The shafts for the elevators had to be very stable.  Each modification brought its own problem.

It seemed as if there were a million window openings in each building. When these buildings were constructed, it was before electricity was readily available and natural lighting was the norm. Three of the buildings were three stories high and four were four stories.  My warehouse was the only one of two stories.

Ted and I sat in my office after we finished the tour. “How are you going to get this started? Molly is excited and you are and I guess I am, but you don’t just say let’s do it, do you?”

“No. I am familiar with a person who has done something similar to this before.  He is in the construction business.  I will contact him and see if he will come out and look the situation over. He rehabbed a whole riverfront of manufacturing buildings in one town. He did twice as many buildings as there is here.  I have no idea what he started with, but it seems as if here there is a lot to work with.  Foundations are good.  The roofs are slate and tight and the floors are supported with steel.

“Would you fill Molly in when I drop you off?  I’m really getting excited about this.  Maybe it will excite her as well.”

“Good God she doesn’t need to get more excited than she has been lately.” He realized what he had just said and in what context. He looked at me side wise and grinned, not saying anything. He got into my pickup and looked straight ahead. When we reached Molly’s house, he asked, “Are you coming in?”

“Naw. Just tell her I’m going to be giving this a lot of time.  Tell her this isn’t going to be done in a day, so for her not to get anxious if I don’t have anything right off to report.  I do know people and I’m as interested in this as she is.”

Ted did not repeat his offer to go in with him, so I knew he was just being polite by asking. Shelly was due to meet Molly in the middle of the afternoon.  Still maybe time for Ted and Molly and one of those quicky’s she was always talking about. A load of bakery goods arrived and I put all thought of the Fortiers out of my mind.

Shelly came home after spending three hours with Molly. “My God, how has that woman ever done anything at all?  It is a good thing the people she has dealt with are honest. She brought in seven big boxes of financial statements and correspondence, plunking it down on the dining room table.

“She has investments all over the country and doesn’t know a thing about investing herself.  There are three separate investment houses and of course they don’t interact with each other. That is good I think, but she has charged me with finding out how much she is worth. Crooks could have spent her right into the poorhouse.

“I told her I wouldn’t give her a figure yet, but doing some mental calculations in my head from the last statements, she must be worth between three and four hundred million. That makes your ex-wife a virtual poor woman with her sixty and seventy million.”

“How did you know how much Elizabeth is worth?”

“I was talking to her and she was worried about sending Jimmy to college. She told me and I believe her.” 

“I told Molly I would never know how much money she had, so don’t tell me anything more about her finances.”

“I was giving you a broad range.  It may be less or it may be more.  It is going to take a long time for me to put this all in an account book.  The real estate isn’t in the figures I quoted either.  I’ll get that amount from you when you start collecting figures to see about financing.”

“What about taxes?  That should give some idea of her net worth.”

“Her tax man is an eighty-three-old man that tabulates everything on an old upright typewriter.  He always has to ask for an extension just because he is so slow and there is so much of it.  She won’t fire him. She says it would break his heart. Working with him is going to be part of my job.”

“Your job sounds as if it is going to be interesting.”

“Yes, and I’m so glad to working again. I want to pull my weight in our family.”

“You don’t have to feel you have to work.  I’ll be making enough to support us and do all of the things we want to do.”

“I know that.  Tell me how you felt when you were married to Elizabeth.  She paid for everything.  The roles are reversed in our marriage. If working for Molly hadn’t come along, I’d be your permanent truck driver just so I could show I was your partner. I think if I did that my ability would be wasted.  I am a trained accountant.  That is what I should be doing and now I have the chance.”

“I’m with you all the way. You still are the homemaker though. I know you well enough that you will keep the kids and me first above any job.”

“I will. I don’t ever want our children in the same position my girls and me were in when I first met you. Jimmy was right there with my girls and he had a different problem. You recognized that he was being denied the attention he should have had.  As little as I had, I was providing a service to him.  I will continue to do so.” Shelly and I were on the same wavelength, no doubt about that.

---

The next three months brought about many changes. The first was that Ronnie was laid off from his job.  By this time, Shelly was solidly entrenched in the good graces of Molly Fortier. Molly had moved in with Ted, as his house had the more modern conveniences.  Shelly wrangled a job for her ex-husband, Ronnie, by suggesting Molly totally remodel her house as long as it was empty. 

Renovator’s Supply must have been happy to start receiving such large orders for period fixtures.  The several coats of paint were stripped from the casings and old paper stripped from the walls. The tin ceilings were carefully removed and taken to a shop where they could be stripped as well. One room where there had been a water leak the tin tiles had rusted, and had to be replaced.  Again, tiles were found in the catalog at Renovators Supply.

I was concerned about Ronnie’s ability to do quality work, but found out the reason why he was laid off first when a layoff came. It was because he worked with so much attention to detail, he came off as being slow. This was just what Molly needed in a house of this type and he was coming into his own. He eventually hired two helpers of the same bent.  Molly was tickled as the progress began to show what she wanted and willingly signed the checks.

Shelly’s job too, was evolving. She freely admitted to Molly that certain segments of the job were beyond the capabilities of what she was trained in doing. She knew what was needed and was a big player when a three-man financial planning group was hired.  She still did any personal finances of Molly’s, and she worked closely with the group.  Her only comment to me was that Molly would be paying an extra million in capital gains the year after she started work.

Shelly was home with the kids when they were at home.  I wasn’t so lucky. It seemed as if I was always having a meeting to go to in the evening.  Sometimes I had to be away a few days at a time, but I absolutely refused to be away on the weekend. 

This was family time. Neil was back and I guess he and Elizabeth had come to some kind of agreement.  He did not have much to say about his week with her in the east, but he was content enough. I put him right to work investigating what was needed to get this project underway.

At this point Molly wanted me in charge, although I felt a little weird about it.  Neil did not seem to mind and was willing for me to pilot him through the hoops. Ted would also do anything asked of him.

Two weeks after we got down to this, Elizabeth was sitting in her vehicle waiting at the house when Shelly got home from Molly’s.  Jimmy recognized his mother’s car and went running inside after getting off the school bus. Elizabeth had presents for him and for the two girls, treating them all equally.

My question to her when I arrived, “Are you staying with us the same as you did before?”

Her face flushed when she replied, “No, I’m staying at Neil Fortier’s house until I find a piece of property. I’m looking for something a lot smaller than I had back east.  Oh, by the way, the property we owned together one time has been sold. I am moving out to this area permanently. I want to be near the kids.  You know I have had what I consider many friends, but none are closer to me than you and Shelly.”

“What are Madie and Will going to do?  They have been working for you since we bought the house shortly after we were married.”

“That has been the holdup why I haven’t bought a place yet. I want them to have their own home so what I’m looking for is two small houses close together. Neil is working with some realtors who are searching for just what I need.”

“What about you and Neil?”

“I’m attracted to Neil, but we have different goals in life. He is finally awake to the fact that he is the last in a long line of the Fortiers.  He is looking for a woman who will give him children to carry on his name.  I don’t blame him. I am sad that my father’s name ended when I married you. My people just never had the sense of family that Neil’s has.

“Mrs. Fortier wasn’t so much worried about Neil pissing away his money, as she was worried about him not carrying on the family name.”

“So what is the problem?  You are still young enough to still have children.”

“Yes, but I’m not sure I want anymore babies.  Just to produce a child to carry on a family name seems shallow.  What if I have girls instead of a boy? I just don’t think I’m in love with Neil that deeply.”

“You still may fall in love with Neil and you may change your mind yet. Elizabeth, I am impressed. I think you are correct and are wise to hold off getting married for only one single reason. Stay for dinner tonight?”

“Sure, I would like to stay. Neil is coming over to take me out, but I want to visit with the kids.  I’ll call him and put him off.”

“Invite him for dinner with us.  That is if you are still friends.” 

“John, we are a little more than just friends.  I’m just not sure, that is all.”

There was genuine affection shown between my ex-wife and Neil when he arrived. They did make a handsome couple and I couldn’t fault her for being a little uncertain. She had one failed marriage (ours) under her belt and one half-year relationship (Brian) that turned out badly. She was definitely gun-shy. It was early in their relationship, and it needed time to mature.

I made an announcement as we were having coffee after the kids had gone to the other room.  “I have arranged for Christian Stone to fly out from Massachusetts.  He is head of the construction company I told you about that was from the east.

“He is the contractor who rehabbed the waterfront factories.  He is going to bring a design engineer and an architect with him.  They’ll be here Monday afternoon.

“Molly is going to open up her house for them to stay in. It is not finished yet, but enough is completed so they will be comfortable. We should know before they leave if what we have is a go. Neil, I want you there of course and Ted should be there to answer any questions. I will be escorting Molly so she can veto any suggestions immediately if she thinks they are too radical.

“I have cautioned her and the same to you, Neil.  Please don’t mention money or where the financing will come from. I don’t want them to know anything beyond what they see on the ground. We’ll all meet in Molly’s living room every evening to discuss what has been looked at during the day.”

My ex-wife asked, “May I be present too?  I can walk with you and Molly.”  There was silence.  It went on for a little longer than was comfortable.

Then Elizabeth burst out laughing. “I saw Molly when she left Ted’s house as I was coming from Neil’s to come over here. She has invited me already.  I just wanted to see your reaction. Molly called me and apologized for leading me wrong with Neil. We have been on the phone together several times lately.

“She has come to grips to the fact that I’m not after Neil's money, so therefore I’m acceptable.  Boy Neil, does your mother have a vocabulary.  She just has the courage to say what she thinks.  I wish I was more like her.” This made us all laugh. None of us could imagine Elizabeth swearing like Molly.

When Shelly and I got in bed and were snuggling together, I said, “I’ll lay a bet that Elizabeth and Neil will be married someday. I think they are sleeping together and they haven’t known each other very long.  I was watching both of them tonight. They kept looking at each other, she at him as much as him at her.

“Another thing, I don’t think she is as adamant about not having children as she says she is. Sandy crawled up on the couch and Elizabeth hugged her to her bosom.  When Sandy laid her head in her lap, Elizabeth was looking down on Sandy with love in her eyes. Jimmy was treated the same way when Sandy got up. She’ll be having little Fortiers, mark my words.”

“That’s like us having little Rheingolds isn’t it?”  I rolled over and snapped the light on. There was a happy grin on Shelly’s face.  “I missed my monthly two weeks ago. I’m going to wait one more week before I do a test.” I went to sleep a happy man.

Christian Stone, Developer; George Caruthers; Design Engineer, and Mindy Evans, Architect, arrived late in the day on Monday.  They came into my office saying it was too late to do any business today. I drove them over to Molly’s house where she met them and showed them where to put their things. She and Ted were going to entertain them in Ted’s house for the evening and I would pick them up when they were ready in the morning.

They were waiting. Neil, Elizabeth, Ted and Molly were with them and she was giving Mindy a tour of her house and showing off what Ronnie Waters was doing to it. Mindy was impressed and said so. “I’m inclined to have him do Ted’s house where we had dinner last night and the middle one that belongs to Neil as well.”

“That would be nice.  When you get to redoing and repairing the stucco, you should go with some soft colors and get away from the cement color they are now.”

“I’ll do it. That would take away from the period look.”

When we arrived at the factory building, it was all business.  The three of them were talking an almost different language and it left us wondering what they were saying. They walked up the middle of the street between the buildings and were making notes continually on their pads. They concentrated on one side and then would concentrate on the other side when returning.

Christian asked, “Is this a public street?”

Ted answered, “No, the public way ends where the warehouse begins. At one time Mr. Fortier tried to turn it over to the city, but it is three and a half feet too narrow and they wouldn’t accept it. There are streets bordering both the other sides of the buildings.”  More scribbling on the pads of paper.

The design engineer took many photos of the buildings.  Ones where the building were shown together and each one separately.  Ted did the tour of the boiler rooms and heating plant. The subject about the warehouse was pretty much ignored. “We’ll go inside tomorrow and look at the condition of the buildings from that angle.” That was it at the location today.

We all went home to clean up for dinner. Molly was having caterers come in and cook dinner in Ted’s kitchen.  There would be a meeting after that where it was comfortable. Shelly wanted to be with me, but she couldn’t round up a babysitter.  “Get one for tomorrow evening.  We’ll be meeting again after another day of the same.”

The meeting began after Molly had served brandy.  Christian recapped what they had covered during the day. He then asked a question.  “Who operates the business in the warehouse?  I saw a lot of activity in and around it. Does whoever owns the business own the building?”

Molly answered as eyes swung my way. “I own the building, but John has a lease and an option to buy if it is sold.  It is pretty well tied up.  Why?”

“You must realize it has to go. It chokes off two thirds of the access to all of the buildings.”

There was silence and I sat there looking unconcerned.  Molly spoke again. “John, this upsets your applecart doesn’t it.  You can hold up the whole project or tie it up in court for a long time.”

“I knew this was coming Molly.  I think if you and I get somewhere where we can speak alone, we can come to some agreement on the disposal of the warehouse.  I’ll present my thoughts on Friday morning giving these people time to look over my proposal. Let’s do the buildings and forget about the warehouse for the time being.”

“John, when are we going to get together?”

“I’ll come for coffee early Friday morning.  I will want you, Ted and Neil present.  Shelly is involved, but the kids need to get off to school and I promised her I would tell her all about it when she arrived. I want us all in agreement before I say anything to Christian.”

“Okay, you have evidently thought of something. I’ll leave it until we meet Friday.”

It seemed as if every one of us walked miles when examining the interior of the buildings. George and Mindy had their heads close consulting about what they observed throughout the day. Everyone was tired and Molly came through again for the evening meal. 

It was cold today and she had a barbecue set up in the carriage barn behind her house.  A different crew catered the meal again. I looked over at Elizabeth and she was eating ribs with her fingers---and she had grease all over her face. It was not so long ago I was dressing for dinner and Madie and Will would be serving us. Jimmy would be dressed and sitting beside his mother.

She would have her eyes on him teaching him table etiquette and deportment. I understood that this changed after she and I were divorced and he then often ate in the kitchen with Madie and Will.  Elizabeth most usually dined out while Jimmy was being ignored at home. So much has changed.

Shelly was late and when she arrived she had Sandy, Kathy and Jimmy with her. Molly had never met the kids before this and she felt it was about time. They were all dressed in sweatshirts and jeans. Jimmy stepped to his mother for a kiss and hug. She opened her arms for the two girls and she gave them the same.

She turned to Mindy Evans, explaining, “These are my ex-husband’s children. I love them all. My son Jimmy found the girls and then John found Shelly, the girl’s mother, and then I found them. I’m now included in their family.”  Shelly and Elizabeth both presented them to Molly.

Sandy spoke to Molly, “My Daddy works for you. He said you are very happy with his work and loves his job.  I think he is going to get married soon.  I like Pam an awful lot too.”

“Well if your daddy asks his lady friend to be his bride, we will have to see that they have a nice wedding. I haven’t met her yet, but I’m sure I will soon.” The caterers served hot apple pie and ice cream for dessert.  We then went inside.

Molly took the kids in hand and went around to the rooms their father had been working in.  She had one back bedroom to compare the completed ones to the one in front.  It was torn apart, with the old paper stripped from the walls and some of the moldings were out having the paint mechanically removed. These she planned on having varnished.

Meanwhile those of us in the meeting went over what had been covered today. The number of windows had been counted, and all would be replaced.  It was going to be extremely expensive because the window openings had an arch to them and were not rectangular. This would entail a small curved sash at the top of each one. The saving feature was that the windows were all identical in size.

To anyone who thought this was just for beauty would be mistaken.  The windows were arched to support the weight of the bricks above the window. It was the same principle as the Romans used in building their bridges for their troops and war machines to travel over from one end of the empire to the other. 

“How are you going to finance this?” This was Christian Stone asking.  No one answered.  “I take it you haven’t reached that point in the process yet.”

Neil answered, “No, we haven’t yet.  We were waiting on you to tell us if it was something worth doing.” Molly had come in with the kids as he spoke.

“It definitely is worth doing. I haven’t run into anything that isn’t structurally sound.  This was what I was concerned about at the time John called me about the buildings. He assured me they were solid and that is why I agreed to come out and take a look. In fact when we get all of the specs drawn up, I would like to have my company bid on doing the construction.”

He continued, “What you need to do is form a holding company to own the companies that are actually involved in the workings of the project. An entity can go after the government grants and the bank financing.  You can put only what part of your personal fortune into the company you feel comfortable with and won’t have your remainder at risk.

“John is your consultant and he has discussed this just a little with me.  He has mentioned a man that he knows by the name of Bret Turnbull.  He is tops in his field at this sort of structuring companies and you couldn’t do any better if you can get him to work for you.  There are others of course, but if you want, have him call me when you are ready.”

The meeting continued with us discussing leasing the first levels and what stores we would want.  The second floors would contain offices. The third floors would become apartments. Those buildings that had four floors would have apartments on both the third and forth.

The huge open lofts in all seven buildings would be divided into storage facilities for the apartments as the elevators would reach up to this high level.  There were no windows in the lofts and with slate roofs except in the ends. It was determined that water could seep in around any dormers cut into the roof. It would be better not to disturb the slate.

I held a meeting with Molly, Neil, Ted, Shelly and myself Thursday afternoon.  At the last minute, I asked Elizabeth to be present as well. We met in the warehouse office. “Molly, I have been hired as your consultant. I realized early on that that at some point it would conflict with my own business interests. I do think if the project goes forward, it will provide many jobs for the city.  Also, it will give us a chance to create a memorial to your Frank and to those who helped build this city.

“The buildings here are unique in that they are solid, so why would we want to destroy them and build something modern and ugly in their place. My idea is to reconfigure several things.  First, the warehouse does have to go, but in its place, a parking garage should be constructed. This garage should be twice the footprint in size of the warehouse. There is room so that makes it possible.  It also should rise to the height of the tallest of the old factory buildings and it should be designed to look much like its neighbors. 

“The narrow street between the buildings could be covered and become a huge patio with no vehicles allowed. Office workers, tenants, and customers alike could utilize this space to relax. The people permanently living here would have garage space in the new garage, which would be included in their rent. That would take up nearly a third of the spaces as I conjecture. Another third of the parking spaces would be for the daily office holders and the rest would be available for customers who would be shopping the stores.

“The factories in the past were always serviced from the streets on either side so the street between the buildings was not ever part of the city.  Very fortuitous for our project. This could even be a blueprint for that other abandoned manufacturing building farther up the street to the north of us.”

Molly spoke now that I paused for breath.  “How much is it going to cost me to buy you out of your lease here on this warehouse?”

“I can’t answer that yet. I have found another piece of property that I can make do to replace what I have leased here in the warehouse.  It is not as good as this is, but it is convenient. The one problem is, the owner doesn’t want to lease, he wants to sell. It is located the other side of the beltway, and that part is good, for it is closer to the pig farm.”

“What is the biggest problem with it other than having to buy it?” 

“It is another small old factory building located at 1437 Meldrin Street that has been mostly converted into housing all ready. The two upper stories are completed. There were to be five new apartments on the ground floor and that would be where my machinery would go. I think the ten apartments in the two floors above are okay, but the tenants might not like a business being conducted below them.”

“If you can use it, John, we will work it out with the tenants.”

“Okay Molly, but I might have to come to you for financing.”

“Fine, tell me how much and when you need it.”  She started smiling.  “I think you set me up John. We all knew before we started this that the warehouse had to go. You kept quiet about it and we hated to say anything in case it upset you.

“We had the feeling if we upset you, you would raise the cost of us buying back the option and the lease. I should have known better.  We’ll work together in getting you set up somewhere else and I promise you will be the better for it.”

“Thanks, Molly. To relieve your mind further, I really believe in this project and I am glad to be a part of it.  We will be meeting with Christian and the people I brought in tomorrow as promised.  I have some sketches to back up my ideas. This should round out to what the project will look like in five years when it is completed. I guess this wraps it up for today. 

“I’ll have a short meeting with Christian in the morning. I will be back for our usual sit-down after dinner tomorrow night.  Is there anything else we should cover?”  There wasn’t.

The meeting in the morning went well and was brief.  I had a lot of work of my own to do and I didn’t make the dinner meeting.  I had a phone call from another bakery who was interested in my operation.  It was in another city.

Before this, I had never considered going this far from my base, but I would listen to what those at the bakery had to say. It meant an overnight stay and I hated being away overnight.  I left immediately so I could be back in the early afternoon on Saturday.

Shelly was waiting for me to get home to talk about the meeting last evening at Molly’s house.  “You were the main topic of conversation you know? It was the consensus that you be offered the job of devoting your efforts totally to getting this project started and seeing it through until it is completed.  Something such as a general manager.

“When the job is complete, a well paying job would be created to give you employment the rest of your life.”

“Whose idea was this?”

“Christian brought it up.  He is impressed with what you have done so far. Molly signed right on of course.”  Shelly stopped speaking, but I knew she had more to say. I waited. “John, all of a sudden, I’m earning good money and you are being paid an exorbitant amount as a consultant. However, I feel as if we are losing control of our lives. I was happy when you were just a small business owner making pig feed.”

“What brought this on?”

“It was something Elizabeth said. She said you deserve to become rich. You could say you were rich once before or at least you had a rich wife. Do you want to be rich again?  I am just asking, because I want to know where we are heading. To me, I’m living the richest right now I have ever been in my entire life. I don’t need more, but I’m with you wherever we are heading.”

“I’ve certainly changed direction since I met you. This project is such an incredible chance to do something for the city and the hundreds of people that are going to be living and working here. Yes, and we are doing something for ourselves as well. We are being productive.  It is a good lesson for the kids. 

“I hate to keep mentioning Elizabeth, but she never has had to be productive. She is somewhat lost right now.  Neil is involved.  Molly and Ted certainly are just as we are. She has had to take a backseat when we are busy.”

“John, don’t give up on her yet. She is your biggest booster and I believe she is taking a big interest in this project. I think she is falling for Neil and if she wants to make a life with him, she will find something to do to help him.  Molly was giving up on Neil at one time and look at him now.  He is a major player in all of this.  Elizabeth just might become one too.”

Christian stayed around for two more weeks.  His contracting business was getting ready for a job he had successfully bid on, Mindy Evans and George Caruthers were now on the payroll working at getting prepared for the permitting process. They were promising they would have everything squared away to start applying for the necessary permits by September 1st.

Molly and Elizabeth stopped by the house. Spring school vacation was coming up.  Elizabeth wanted to take the kids to Disneyland.  She said she would take us all. Sandy, who really liked her father’s girlfriend, asked if Pam could be included. This was agreeable, as we were friendly with her.  Ronnie and Pam were planning a June wedding, so she was eventually going to be a part of our extended family.

Neil wanted to go, of course.  Molly said, “By God I want in on this little junket. Ted doesn’t want to go.  Get Ronnie to go too.  He has been working hard all winter.  Who is going to make reservations, you Elizabeth?” Elizabeth nodded that she was.

The kids went to their room all excited to be going to Disneyland. Shelly spoke up, “Count John and me out.  He is taking me up to Chicago to see some plays and maybe a concert. We want to hit some really fine restaurants.  What I am saying is, this is a honeymoon of sorts. A woman should go on a honeymoon before she begins to waddle.  That’s what will be happening soon.”

“Knocked up are you?  Congratulations.” Only Molly would ask if Shelly was with child this way.  “Good, we will give the kids a good time. The kids know about the baby yet?”

“No, not yet.  We will tell them when we all get back.”

The kids were wired for the next three weeks waiting for the day they would leave.  I had to get on Jimmy and Kathy about doing their homework.  Sandy was never a worry. This was something I had never had to do before.  Monday, on the day after the decision to go on vacation, I went by the old factory where I was thinking of moving my business. 

It was still for sale and there hadn’t been any offers made on it for more than three months. The owner had stopped the renovations for the first floor after deciding he was going to sell. I informed the realtor I might make an offer in a few weeks.  I didn’t want to appear too anxious and claimed I still only wanted to lease the property.

The vacation finally came. Shelly and I were at the airport to see the children, Molly, Ronnie, Pam, Neil and Elizabeth board.  We were driving to Chicago and planned to make a leisurely journey of it. We checked into a hotel and had dinner there as well.  There was dancing in the evening and as we weren’t going to make a late night of it, we stayed just long enough to dance a couple of sets.

“Are you happy?”

"Happy?  A year ago, right after I lost my job, I had to worry about paying the rent, feeding the kids and getting enough gas into the tank to take the kids to school.  Now look at me, I’m snuggled up to a man who treats me like a queen. My children love him as much as I do. I have a new son who adores me and I’m pregnant by the man I love.  Not only that, I’m friends again with the man who I figured was never going to be able to pay me child support.  Now the check comes every month and the kids enjoy visiting him and his girlfriend.  I feel so rich!”

“Is being rich one of your dreams?”

“No, I don’t have to have any more than I have right now. Let’s go to sleep with a smile in our hearts.  You can expect an early wake-up session in the morning before we go for a late breakfast.”  That sounded like a plan to me.  That is pretty much how the week went.

One thing we did do. We asked where we could find the best steak in town. We were pointed toward one on the outskirts of the city.  We were also a little nonplussed when we found out it had topless waitresses.  The steak was the best I had ever eaten and the scenery was excellent. Needless to say, I didn’t wait for a wake-up session in the morning.  I took care of business before we went to sleep.

All too soon, it was time to go back home and face the everyday problems. We were rejuvenated though, and eager for whatever might come up. George Caruthers and Mindy Evans had been working on the plans we would need to remodel the empty factory buildings. Soon we would have enough details to go to the city board with our intentions to rehab this section on the north side of the city.

The kids came back with all kinds of souvenirs from their trip. We understood Molly was as excited and acted much like the three children.  She collected as much junk as they did too. Shelly and I didn’t buy much in Chicago, but we sure had many of the memories of the theater and the one country and western concert we had attended. 

I guess the Steak House was mine. All I had to do to break Shelly up is to mention going somewhere for a nice juicy steak.  She would go into a fit of giggles.

There was help that we weren’t aware of right under our noses that became known during the trip to Disneyland.  Pam said she had done some grant searching at one place she was employed. She was thirty-six, five years older than Ronnie was, and their work histories paralleled each other’s in that they never had held a job for more than a few years at each place.

She had also written copy for a newspaper.  Molly hired her on the spot and said she would keep her busy until the project demanded all of her time.  She said her husband Frank, had kept some journals that belonged to his ancestors and wanted the facts in them put into a chronological history of the factories they had started.

Shelly and I informed the kids that Shelly was pregnant and would be having a baby some time around Thanksgiving.  Jimmy was slightly embarrassed, Kathy said wow, and Sandy wanted to know details. Shelly promised to share. Sandy was eleven now and it was time for her to know. Why Kathy had never filled her in, I couldn’t say.  You would have thought an older sister would have.

It was a week after our vacation, I decided I would go talk to the realtor who had the old factory building listed.  I called for an appointment to see if the salesman I had talked to previously was in. He was. “I am sorry to inform you Mr. Rheingold that the property was sold two weeks ago.  A person came in and offered the asking price.  She paid cash.  I told her you had an interest in leasing the property, if she wanted to go that route. She was quite noncommittal. In fact the woman has the same last name as you.”

“I’m guessing her first name was Elizabeth.”

“Yes, that was her name. Do you know her?”

“Very well. We have a son together, although we are divorced.”

“I’d say if you two are friendly at all, you might make a deal with her.”

“That’s a thought. Thank you anyway.”

I called Shelly.  “Guess what.  That building I wanted to lease when I had to move has been sold.  Elizabeth bought it. I wonder what she has in mind.  She damned sure is not going to produce pig food or manage a bunch of apartments.  What should I do about this?”

“John, I imagine she has some plan and I’m sure you will be involved. I guess I would pretend you didn’t know she purchased the property. She’ll let you know when she is ready to divulge the details.”

“I’m a little disappointed. I thought this would be the perfect place for my business.  Well, I’m going to start looking again. I won’t have to move for at least a year, so I have time.”

I saw Neil and Elizabeth that afternoon together as always, for lately one never went anywhere without the other.  She looked at me as if she was waiting for me to bring up something. I didn’t. As they left, she looked a bit worried. I would wait her out. I wondered if she felt she had done something and now regretted it.

Two days went by. I was busy in the warehouse and I was meeting daily with George and Mindy. Mindy wanted her firm to get the contract to draw up the blue-prints. My thoughts were on the project when Elizabeth called, “John, when you leave the warehouse this afternoon, may I have five minutes of your time?”

“I have time for you anytime. Where would you like me to meet you?”

“I’ll sit with you if you have your truck.  As I said, it will only be for a few minutes.” 

“Here, outside the warehouse?”

“Yes.”

“Okay, see you at five.” I called Shelly and told her I would be a few minutes late because I was about to find out what Elizabeth was up to.

It was a few minutes after five by the time I had the warehouse closed and locked up. Elizabeth got out of her vehicle and stood beside my truck waiting. I opened the passenger’s door.  She had on a tight skirt and had to hike it up high to climb in. “John, showing you my legs was unintentional.  We should have got into my car.  I thought you would be more comfortable in your truck with what I am going to tell you.”

“Hey, I’ve seen your legs before. I am more concerned about why you wanted to see me.”

“John, I have done something and it may have been a mistake.  I wanted to do something good for you, but after it was done, I worried that you would not be all that happy with me.”

“Just tell me what it is. I can’t imagine my being too upset with you.”

“Okay.  What I did was to purchase the property you indicated you wanted to lease for the upcoming move of your business.  Now I’m worried you will think I am interfering. I have made some changes to what I intended as a gift and the papers have not been filed yet, so if you will accept it as a gift I will be pleased and I worried for nothing.  Will you?”

“I don’t think I should.  It is too much, but I think you were great for thinking of helping me. Tell me how you can change from giving me the property?”

“What I have done was also to have papers drawn up to have the property transferred to Jimmy and his sisters to be held in trust until they are of age. You can lease the property from the trust. Jimmy is my son and it is time he starts to accumulate some wealth on his own.  You can give him your values, but I still want to be involved.  I can see where you wouldn’t want him to have the same values I had by just having millions of dollars turned over to me at some point.”

“His stepsisters are included?”

“Yes, totally. I watched them while on vacation and I do not want any of them treated better than the others.  All you have to do is sign the papers.”

“Why do I have to sign any papers?”

“Because I have you down as trust manager.”

“Who thought this all out?”

“Somehow I knew you wouldn’t accept the property from me. I had Neil set it up and make out the paperwork.  Do you think this will make it more acceptable to you?”

“Who sets the terms of the lease if I go forward?”

“I’d say you do. You will have to go through a trust officer who hasn’t been named yet, but that is pretty much a formality.  Just as long as the property is intact when the youngest child comes of age.  This will not include your new baby. You’re on your own with the new one.”

“Let me talk it over with Shelly.  I think she will be happy with the children having something in place for the future.”  Elizabeth started to get down out of the truck. 

She paused.  “One other bit of news. Neil has asked me to marry him. He is five years younger than I am, but it doesn’t seem to concern him.”

“You said one time you didn’t want any more children. Has that changed?”

“Yes.  I see how happy you and Shelly are with Jimmy and the girls. Ronnie and Pam are just as comfortable with Jimmy and his two sisters. I’ve decided I really am missing something by not having another family. I have come to love Neil and I want what he wants.

“John, I could wish it might have been you, but we never would have got there.  I was two shallow when I was married to you and you were too serious about life.  I think now we are approaching some middle ground even though we aren’t together. 

“There is another situation that I am contemplating.  The realty agency that has been handling your lease that listed the buildings here is up for sale. I may invest in it and I might even become involved in its management. I’ve been a drone for thirty-one years.  It’s time I did something productive.”

“You amaze me, you really do.”

“Maybe, but it is all because of you.”

“How do you mean?”

“I guess I was getting sick of the life I was living after we divorced. I knew you did not love me for my money, and after awhile you did not even love me. It took awhile until I was aware of all of this. After the divorce, I thought I could find love anywhere. I had plenty of money to buy love.  However, I was hollow until I came out here after the Brian fiasco.

“The thing is you care about people. You cared enough about me to fold me into your new family.  What more could a disillusioned rich woman want. You showed me the way to have the same.

“You’ve done the same for Molly, Neil and Ted. You also did the same for Ronnie, the father of Kathy and Sandy. Oh hell, go home to your wife. I love you John, but the only way I can show you how much is through our son, Jimmy.”

Elizabeth slammed the truck door and headed over to her car. She turned once and I could see tears trickling down her cheeks. I knew we would never have a more intimate conversation than the one that had just occurred. I signed the papers the next day and returned them to Neil and Elizabeth.

“Elizabeth, when everything is recorded, would you have dinner with us and explain what you have done for the children. It is a gift that can keep on giving and I want you to have the total credit for it.”

“I wouldn’t know how to tell them. You can do it much better than I can.”

“You just come to dinner and we will work it out. The kids are more intelligent than we give them credit for and will soon realize how much of a gift it is. I want them to know a little of what is behind it as well. I’ll explain that part.”

“Okay, but don’t get too carried away.”

It was two weeks later when Elizabeth and Neil came to dinner. She shared with us that she was in fact going to marry Neil. Jimmy had no problem with Neil becoming his stepfather.  This was much different from the problems he had had with Brian. The girls liked him, as he was familiar to them while on vacation at Disneyland.

He announced, “Elizabeth and I are soon going to have a civil ceremony.  When summer comes and after Ronnie and Pam are married in June, we are planning a big blowout.  It will be behind my mother’s house.  We might get some horses for you to ride.  If you have any special friends, we will invite them too.  My mother has planned a big wedding for Ronnie and Pam, so the blowout will be for all of us.”

We ate dinner and then Elizabeth said we should all go into the living room as she had something more she wanted to say. She spoke first to Jimmy. “Jimmy, you are aware that I have some money.  While I was married to your father, he was intimidated by this fact and eventually it became contentious between us. This was one of the reasons we parted. I have always wanted him to receive more from our late marriage than he has. 

“He now needs a place to move his business to. I have resolved this by purchasing the building where he wanted to place his business. Still he will not accept it from me directly. This is what I have done.  I have put the property into a trust for you, Kathy, and Sandy.  You three in essence now own it.  When Sandy, the youngest of you three become twenty-one, it will be owned in your names.

“This trust was arranged at one of the banks here in the city and as such there is an officer to make sure the terms of the trust are fulfilled. He has okayed that John Rheingold be named manager of the property. Therefore, this boils down to you kids own property and your father works for you. As manager, he is expected to look out for your interests to the best of his ability and have the property show a profit.

“I would suggest you lease a part of said property to him and his business. There are, as you may know, ten apartments above where his business is going to be. He has to see that all are maintained and he has to collect rents etc. The money from the rents and his own lease is where money to pay him as manager and profit for you as owners comes from. Do you understand how this is going to work?”

“I do. You bought property and gave it to us. The money we get from that will be used to pay Papa for taking care of it for us until we get old enough to do it for ourselves.”

“That’s right Sandy. When you have the property in your names, you may want to sell it to him and bank the money.  This will start you all on the road to be well set in life. You could even sell the property to your father for any price you wish as long as it is agreeable among you three. Or maybe you will want to continue as property owners and take over as managers.  It is for you to do what you want with the property.”

“Dad, when can we go see what we own?”

“Tomorrow we will.  I have to meet the tenants and explain what is happening.  I have to tell them there is a business going in on the first floor. I will mention there might be some jobs available for those that need one.  I’m sure we will lose one or two tenants, but that is to be expected and they can be replaced with new ones.

“You kids can help by being friendly and listen while we are talking.  Remember the old man back east who was your landlord and how he hated to evict you.  That was showing concern for his fellowman. We will try to be like him as much as we can.” The children ran into the other room to discuss this.

“You’re all right with this, John?”

“Yes, and it will be a good learning experience for the kids.  I have a place to move to and it is a good piece of property to own.  It should generate quite a bit of income for them.”

I smiled and then spoke, “You know Elizabeth, you are finally beginning to see what I was trying to get across to you while we were married.  I imagine someday you will make Jimmy an heir to part of your millions. That is what happened when you received the money from your parents. 

“You didn’t earn those millions so they didn’t hold as much value to you as they will to Jimmy.  He’ll work and try to increase his property value and that is where the real appreciation of wealth lies. In the meantime you are making things a lot easier for me and I thank you.”

“Great, I feel good about making this move and to see you have a place to put your business. I do understand, finally.” There was a self-satisfied smile on my ex-wife’s face and I granted it was well deserved.

Chapter Six

“Okay guys, mount up and let’s go see what you own.” Elizabeth had given me the keys so we could explore the first floor. I had walked through once when I first thought of leasing the building. Now I wanted to start to plan where my equipment was to be placed.

I gave Jimmy the keys and the three kids ran for the building. The entrance to the two floors above was on the right.  There was no elevator, just stairs. You went into the empty first floor by the same entrance.

There was room for two trailer trucks to back up to a loading dock at the other end of the building.  Actually, this building was sitting on a little more than a five-acre lot, so it was quite large. The trucks did not have to back in off the highway because there was room to come in and turn around. There was nothing attractive about the place.  The whole lot was graveled with a sagging chain-link fence around the perimeter.

The kids went running through the downstairs to the loading docks.  There was a lot of junk and assorted rubbish packed against the back wall from when the construction workers had renovated the upper levels. I walked into what had been the office area and liked it.  Some old desks and filing cabinets had not been moved out. One was an ornate golden oak roll-top I was going to claim for my own.

I opened a door in the corner and saw a stairwell going down.  The lights didn’t work.  This was something I would have to investigate later. Just then, I heard the rumble of a man speaking.  I came out of the office just as I heard Sandy answer a question.

“We own the building. Jimmy’s mom bought it for an investment for us. Who are you?”

“I live upstairs in apartment number four. You kids are too young to own something like this.  You get out of here right now or I will call the landlord.”

“You don’t understand, mister.  We are the landlords. Honest. I’ll find my dad to explain if you don’t believe me.” This was Jimmy taking up for his younger sister. I stepped out of the office.

I addressed an elderly man. There was a little old woman with him. “Hello, Sir and Madam. The children are technically correct.  Jimmy’s mother did buy the property for them, but they don't take control until Sandy, the youngest, becomes twenty-one.  I’m in charge as their manager until then. I have leased the bottom floor here from them and will be opening up a small manufacturing business some time after the first of next year.”

“What is going to happen to us who are renting the apartments?”

"You will still be able to rent them.  In fact, we will be going through them and upgrading them if we think it necessary. Do you have any complaints you would like to tell me about right now?”

“Our worst one is that our heating is terrible.  We have a gas wall furnace.  It is old and unreliable. It costs us a lot to keep having the service man come and fix it.”

“It will be warm weather in another month.  Can you survive with it until then? In fact, any service you need before summer, you can have the furnace technician send the bill to me. I’ll make sure you will be comfortable next winter. Tell me, is that the way each apartment is heated, with the tenants paying for their own heat?”

“Yes.”

“You let me look into the situation and I will see what I can do for all of you. In return, in the future maybe you can overlook some noise that my machinery will make down here for a few hours a day. And that I promise I will make as minimal as possible.”

The two old folks didn’t say anything. Maybe I was too soon in bringing up that there was going to be machinery operating here. I had decided I did not want to hide anything. “May I have your names please so I will at least know one of our tenants?”

“We are Sadie and Tom Burns.”

“Good, I’m happy to make your acquaintance. I’m assuming you know all of the tenants.  Would you take the kids around to all of them and introduce them as the new owners?  Kathy is the tallest and oldest girl. Jimmy the boy, is a year younger and Sandy is the youngest and the smallest. She also is the one the two others look to, as their leader. They let her be boss and I haven’t figured that one out yet myself.

“I’ll be around next Wednesday about six in the evening to meet everyone. I will post a notice just inside the entrance to that effect. I’ll try to have a place for everyone to sit down here on the first floor. Oh, do you know what is in the cellar? There are no electric lights down there.”

“I honestly don’t know. I have never been down there. Probably not much but junk.” 

“Okay, I just wondered.  I will get it checked out. You kids go meet all of the people upstairs. Miss Sadie and Tom, I’m pleased to have met you.  We’ll be seeing much of each other.”

The kids went upstairs ahead of Tom and Sadie.  I listened as they knocked on the first door and were explaining to someone who they were. I walked toward the other end of the building, imagining where I would place different pieces of equipment for my business.

There was more than enough room for my operation.  I think there would even be room for another small discount bread store. I was thinking of ways to keep the tenants and this might tip the balance of those who objected to the noise from the machinery. I jumped off the docks and walked toward the back side of the lot.

I had a revelation. It wouldn't take but a narrow building to house the hammer mill, the mixer and the pellet mill, as they were an inline operation.  The storage silos for the corn and the beet pulp would be positioned close to the milling equipment. This would cut down on the noise in the apartments and keep a lot of dust out of the building as well. It could be situated along the back fence. The out of date bread could go over there in tubs, transported by a forklift.

Sure, it would be a big modification from my present operation, but this would be more efficient. I could also handle a larger quantity of material. I also had most of a year to put it all together.

When I got back into the warehouse, there was a woman waiting by the office with an infant in her arms.  “Hi, my name is Phoebe Taft.  I rent 302.  Kathy, I think she said her name is, said you would see that I have heat.  I called a service man two days ago and he said it would be this coming week Thursday before he could get here.  I know it is the 1st of May, but I really still do need heat.  Can you help?”

“I’ll try.  Let me get my book of service people that is in my vehicle. I’ll call someone.”  I got my list and came back to make the call from my cell phone.

“Hey Pete, I have a lady here that has a gas wall furnace that isn’t working.  I know it is a weekend and I know you will charge me extra, but there is an infant in the apartment.  She needs heat. The address is 1437 Meldrin Street apartment 302. I will take care of the charge. 

“I’m manager here now so all repair bills for the furnaces will come to me. You can leave your card in the ten mailboxes. I want these furnaces to keep going until warm weather.  I may do something different about heat for the coming year.  You get a chance to bid on anything new.” Pete told me when he would be here.

“Phoebe, he will be here in an hour and a half. If he can’t get it fixed, call me and I’ll make arrangements to find you a place to stay with your baby that is warm.”

“Thank you so much. I won’t call because the woman in 303 has been kind enough to let me stay with her. It is just that I hate to be a burden on her with my little one.”

“I’m pleased to hear that.  That is what neighbors do.  There will be a meeting Wednesday here downstairs and I will meet you all at that time.”  I received a smile and she started up the stairs.  She met the kids coming down. I heard her tell Kathy that I had contacted someone to have her heating unit fixed by evening.

“I knew Pop would take care of you.  He’s the best.”

On the way home, the kids excitedly told me all about the different people they had met and how much explaining they had to do about being owners of the property.  “Papa, I think we have hired an excellent manager.  Keep up the good work.”  I had to laugh at my little blonde-haired lass.

---

I had many items and jobs to take care of and I was putting in long days. Shelly was busy as well.  She was supportive in that wherever there was a need that I did not have time for and she could handle it, she was there for me. She was the one to post the notice I had drawn up about the meeting with the people who were renting the apartments.  This she did on her way to the warehouse where she saw to the loading of the truck and then drove it out to the pig farm.

Things such as this made it so we all could have our evening meal together. We would talk over what went on in our lives during the day. On school days, the kids went to bed by nine o’clock, and sometimes sooner, as their days were full too. Shelly finished her housework while I did paperwork related to one of the three endeavors in which I was involved.

George Caruthers and Mindy Evans came into the warehouse and kept me updated on the Fortier Renovation project. Neil was often there as well for this meeting.  He and Brett Turnbull were working toward putting the project under the umbrella of a holding company as Christian Stone had advised. At every turn there were things that I had no knowledge of, but among all of us, we were able to keep things moving ahead. It still would be some months before we would be able to start the permitting process.

I gathered a half dozen flood bulbs and a dozen 100-watt light bulbs and went over to the new building.  I wanted to see what was in the cellar. The kids were interested as well so we did this right after an early dinner.  They of course would stay for the meeting with their tenants. The kids were apprehensive about going down into the dark dungeon as they called it.

When we reached the foot of the stairs, I spotted a single fuse box and it was off.  I flipped a switch and there was a dim light that we could see way out at the further end of the cellar.  It at least gave us a bit of orientation to see our way.  However, we waved our flashlights around and could see empty light sockets over our heads. The ceiling was nearly twelve feet high.  I would have to find a ladder to reach the light sockets.

“Jimmy, take your flashlight and look for a ladder.  I would think there might be one here somewhere.”

“There is one right behind you Papa and there is a bucket of light bulbs on the floor beside it.”

“Thanks, Sandy.” The ladder was a tall stepladder and Jimmy could just barely reach the ceiling to screw the bulbs into the sockets.  I had him put in a floodlight in every third socket to give us plenty of light. We then went about examining what was down here.

There was an aisle down the middle, ten feet wide or so.  This was fairly clear without obstruction. On both sides, though, there was broken machinery parts, pulleys, gears and castings of machines, many of these cracked and broken. Apparently, this had been a woodworking factory at one time.  Rather than send the broken equipment off to the junkyard, it had been stored down here for salvageable parts.

Down near the end of the building was a large crate. It had the date scribbled on it that was only four years old. I walked around the crate and there was an invoice tacked to it. It identified a steam heating plant. I didn’t know too much about something such as this, but I was hoping this was purchased to replace the wall furnaces for the apartments. Behind it against the wall were bundles of piping. I would get Ted to come look at it.

I then began to look around to see how this heating plant was lowered to the basement.  Above the crate, I spotted what appeared to be a large trap door. Just as soon as we were finished looking around, we went up to the first floor and I could see beneath piles of junk, the trapdoor and the hinges that swung it open.  Overhead I saw a short rail and an electric hoist. This then was how the boiler had been lowered into the cellar.

Tenants were drifting down from the apartments upstairs and I was not quite ready for them. Sandy and Kathy spoke with them as they came in.  Sandy addressed most of them by name. She had met them on Sunday.  I was amazed that she was able to do this. Jimmy and I went about setting up the chairs that had been stacked in the corner where Shelly left them this morning.

Phoebe Taft came and thanked me for getting her furnace working in apartment 302. “I want to thank you so much.  I called my husband and it relieved his mind about me having the baby and me here alone.  He is away for two months.  He works for the government. How he laughed when I told him I had met the new owners and the oldest was thirteen.  Anyway, thank you again.”

There were about thirty people sitting down.  I had the rental records and all their names, but I hadn’t had time to get to know them yet. “I’ll start by introducing myself.  My name is John Rheingold. I’m the manager, hired by my children. Jimmy Rheingold is my son from a previous marriage.  Kathy Rheingold and Sandy Waters are daughters of my present wife, Shelly.  I consider all three my children.

“One more detail, my ex-wife purchased this building to give to me in a final settlement. I wouldn’t accept it, so she set up a trust and put the property into the trust for the children and named me as manager. That is why the kids have been saying they are the owners.  Enough of that.

“What I have in mind for the property probably has you concerned. I will go into that now.  I have a business where I collect bakery goods returned to the suppliers.  A lot of it is still good enough for human consumption because some of it is returned before the sell by date. I do have a discount store where I sell this. Most of it has to be sold the same day.  If it isn’t then I make pig feed out of it.

“Where I am leasing now is going to be torn down within a year.  I am going to move my operation here to the first floor of this building. I thought at first my whole operation would be in this building, but I am going to construct a shelter for the nosiest equipment along the west edge of the property.

“More than half of the floor here will be taken up by storage.  There will be a small discount store and what equipment needed to remove the wrapping and packing from bread and related products.  Some of the people I employ won’t want to come so far from the city center, so those that don’t I will have to replace.

“There will be a chance for some of you to work right here.  I must warn you that this is not a high paying job. Most of those I pay will be minimum wage, but remember there is no traveling, so that has to be considered. I’ll take questions from anyone now.”

There was a man who stood up from the last seat on the left. “My name is Jack Timmons.  You said something to Tom Burns about changing the heating here in the apartments. Will you be doing that and with what?”

“I will do something so the heating is central in some way.  I was just down in the cellar.  There is a new steam heating furnace and boiler in a crate down there.  I’m having a heating technician over to check it out. This should be a lot cheaper than each one of you buying your own fuel. I’ll have figures within a week.  It appears this is what a previous owner planned.  He just never followed through.”

“What about the money we had to put up front when we leased here.  Do you have that?”

“I have the accounting and the escrow account has been turned over to me. You can check with my wife anytime to make sure it is correct. She is keeping the books. She is an accountant. You will be meeting her in a few minutes. She is bringing some trays of bread and bakery goods you can have to divide among you.  Is there anything else you would like to know?”

“Can we visit the operation where you are now to see what you do firsthand?”

“Yes, of course.   I meant to mention that. You are welcome between nine and four any day during the week. Now I just heard my wife drive in.  She will have the bakery items.  They will all have a sell date by tomorrow, but it all should be edible for a couple of days.”  The kids went running out and some of the tenants offered to give Shelly a hand.

Shelly whispered to me that there wasn’t as much to bring as she hoped.  There were two loaves of bread apiece for each tenant and three boxes apiece of half dozen doughnuts. She had four trays of English muffins and four bags of bagels. There were more than enough Twinkies and cupcakes. All of the tenants were tickled to have the goodies and to think they did not have to pay for them.

I surmised most could pay full price, but you can’t beat something for nothing.  The kids had to be in school tomorrow so we left soon after the food was given out.  Sandy led the trio around to say goodnight.  That kid just amazed me more and more!

I gave Ted the keys and had him go over and inspect the crated boiler.  He knew the company that built it and said it was one of the better units.  All that was needed was the boiler and piping to be installed and hooked up. He said Elizabeth really had a deal because the boiler would have cost several thousand dollars to buy. Ted said he would get an estimate for me to have the work done. 

I wondered if the iron and junk that was in the cellar was worth anything.  I found a person on the Internet who advertised for old machine parts of this type and vintage and he promised to come to look at what was down there.

---

It looked as if I was set with finding a stable place to continue my pig feed business. Elizabeth had done it for me, but she had also made my life a little more complicated. If I had taken the property, as she wanted me too, I would have worked in getting things moved and dealt with the problems in an orderly manner.

I would never tell anyone, most of all how my ex-wife made things more difficult for me. Understand, every night I had three excited juvenile owners tackling me about something concerning their property.  If one couldn’t think of something that needed doing immediately, think of three of them with their heads together.

Shelly realized I was devoting more time to the kids and their property than I should.  I know she must have talked to them about it. She suggested that if they wanted to discuss the tenants or the building with me, they present it in a business-like manner, scheduling a meeting that was short and concise. 

She worked with them and it did help a lot. Not once did I ever get short with them or cut them off. After all, I was working for them. I also knew at some point that they might lose interest. At that time, it would be my chore to show that they had to look at this as a project and they had to pay attention to their responsibilities.

The days were creeping along toward Memorial Day, which meant a three-day weekend. Elizabeth was apt to call up Jimmy and talk.  Often it might be Sandy or Kathy and sometimes all three. “Papa, Aunt Elizabeth wants to take us up to a lake for the holiday.  We all want to go.  Can we?”

“I don’t see why not Sandy.  Are you sure you want to go with her?”

“We do. They are going to take us to see a big parade.  There are going to be men marching and some exercises in several cemeteries. They are going to fire off some guns and we have to listen carefully to what some people will be saying when they are speaking. Uncle Neil will be with us. He was in the National Guard and is going to help explain things.”

“Ask your mother and you can tell her I said you could go.”

“Goody. We are going to take my laptop so Jimmy can send you some pictures and you can see them on his.  We are leaving right after school on Friday and come home Monday afternoon.”

I smiled to myself. This would give Shelly and me some time alone. Elizabeth called Shelly, telling her what to pack for the kids to wear. For some reason, she suggested a nice dress for the girls and a suit for Jimmy. His suit, we were unable to provide as he had grown out of it.  Must be she wanted to take them out to a nice restaurant in the evening.

That same evening we got a call from Madie, saying the Missus had found a small home for her and Will to live in. They were there now and would have us over after the holiday to see where they lived. In the meantime, they were living at a motel until their belongings arrived on Tuesday. 

I invited them to stay with us, but she declined saying the Missus had arranged everything and she did not want to change now. Wow, Shelly and I still had the weekend for ourselves. We showered and went to bed before dark.  This was the most we had been able to relax since our time in Chicago. We took our time and it was a beautiful experience for both us.

I had brought Jimmy’s laptop and Sandy’s cell phone in and put both on the nightstand.  We were laying there cuddling when the cell phone chirped. “Papa, turn on Jimmy’s laptop.  I want you to see a picture of us.”

“You should be in bed.”

“We are too excited to sleep.  Open the laptop and you can see why.”

I sat up and nudged Shelly.  “The kids want us to see something. Elizabeth probably bought the kids a puppy or something.”  I opened the computer. 

In the image, Sandy, Kathy and Jimmy were standing in front of Neil and Elizabeth.  The kids were holding a hand-lettered sign that said “We’re Married.” My ex-wife had put a lot of effort into this, for Jimmy had on a new suit and the girls had on flowered dresses.  Elizabeth had on a pale lavender dress and Neil had a suit just like Jimmy’s suit. I closed the screen.

Shelly looked up at me.  “How do feel about this, John? It must hurt you a little not being invited to their wedding.  She was at your wedding.”

“No, I am tickled as hell that I didn’t have to appear at my ex-wife’s wedding. Elizabeth did tell me one time that it was very uncomfortable when she was at ours. I agreed and I can see why she would be.  She must have remembered. As far as the kids are concerned, I think she wanted to give you and me some time alone without them. I imagine that in the future we will see more of this time alone.  She really does love them all and seems to want them with her.”

“Well let’s use this time alone to its full capacity. I’m up for a little more loving.”

Saturday morning brought its own surprises.  I heard a car drive in. I was up and was just getting ready to crawl back in beside Shelly. I went to look out. It was Molly Fortier. She came up the walk slowly. She looked dejected and not her usual self.  Her hair had not been combed and she usually had on some makeup, which was missing this morning.

I held the door open as she approached. “Good morning, Molly.  This is a surprise.  If you will wait a minute, I’ll get out of these pajamas.  Sit, please.”

“You’re good.  Afraid your dick will pop out and scare me? Where are Shelly and the kids?”

“Shelly is in bed, but she must have heard us so she’ll be out in a minute. The kids are with Neil and Elizabeth.”

“Well where are they? I couldn’t find them.”

“Actually, Elizabeth and Neil were married last night by a Justice of the Peace.  We didn’t know about it until afterward when Sandy sent us a picture.”

“That bastard.  The boy is never here when I need him.” 

Just then, Shelly came in. “Hi Molly, what brings you here?”

“I need to talk to somebody.  I guess you two are it. Make me coffee and I need a stick in it. Whiskey if you have it.  I’m in trouble.  Son-of-a-bitch, I can’t believe it.  I’m too old for this shit.” I started to smile. “Smile you prick.  You think it’s funny.  Why didn’t someone tell me this could happen at my age?”

“You’re saying you are pregnant aren’t you?”

“More like knocked up. You tell me what I’m going to do with a little bastard at my age?”

“You will love it. What does Ted say about this?”

“Haven’t told him yet.”

“You should before you decide anything.  He has the right.”

“I suppose.  I could go and have it disposed of without telling him.”

“The man loves you.  Do you want to cheat him out of having his child?  He might come to the decision to do that, but if he isn’t of that mind, and he finds out later you destroyed the fetus, you’ll surely lose him.”

“There is that. Which way do you think Ted will go?”

“I don’t have any idea at all. Call him and ask him to come over here. Tell him Shelly is making breakfast and he is invited.”

“You will be right here with me when I tell him, won’t you?”

“We will be.” Ted promised he would arrive in forty-five minutes.

When he came in, he questioned Molly why she had got out of bed to visit us so early this morning.  “Eat your breakfast and then I’ll tell you.” He kept looking at her and Shelly and I could see how much he loved Molly. Molly felt it too and was smiling again.  Much different from when she first arrived.

The table was cleared, except for the last round of coffee.  “Okay Molly, tell me what’s going on?”

A look of fear crossed Molly’s face. “Ted, I’m taking full responsibility for this. I’m pregnant and it is only you that can be the father.”

Ted was stunned. “You never said, but I thought you were too old.”

“Apparently I’m not. What do you want to do about it?”

“What do you mean?”

“Do I keep it or what?”

A look of horror appeared. “Oh no, you couldn’t rid yourself of something I have had so much joy in giving you. Molly, I never had a woman who I thought would love me. I never dared think I might have a child to call my own and I had given up hope years ago. Please don’t even think about doing something like that. I would like to ask you to marry me so we could be a family. I know how much Frank Fortier meant to you, so I won’t---but I want to.”  He looked hopefully at Molly.

“Hell Ted, ask me.  I might surprise you with my answer.  I learned this morning that Neil and Elizabeth were married last night.  We will leave it to Neil to carry on his father’s name. If you want me to become Mrs. Theodore Theobold all you have to do is ask.”

Seriously, he asked, “Molly, would you become my wife and take my name so we can give it to our child?”

“Yes Ted, I damned sure will. Do you have any reservations about this?”

“Just one. When the baby is born, I’m demanding that you give up swearing and cussing.” He grinned so we all knew he really didn’t mind.

“I can do that, but I may slip once in awhile.  You would forgive me wouldn’t you?”

“Probably.”

---

“Shelly, Ted needs to take me home, now.  We have a lot to talk about and plans to make. I know you wanted this weekend for yourselves, but you two are the only ones I feel comfortable sharing my problems with. I’m going to get along with my son’s wife, but she is a lot like me in some respects and two women the same cannot get along all that well. ’Course I’m one up on her, I can swear and she would never think of it.”

“You used to swear don’t you mean?”

“Ted, that’s what I meant.  So would you two come over for a late breakfast Monday morning and help me decide how I’m going to handle this getting married shit---I mean stuff?”

As they drove off in their car, Shelly said, “Molly is a mystery to me. She is worth several hundred million dollars and acts as if she just retired from a life of prostitution.”

“Being mysterious is part of her charm.  I love her and wouldn’t change her for a minute.”

“With a statement like that, I think you better take me back to bed. I won’t stand for you loving anyone except me.”

“I should have said I like her, but that didn’t seem strong enough.”

“I know.  I love her too.” The remainder of Saturday and on Sunday, we didn’t do anything, but we were always close enough to reach out and touch each other. We didn’t speak much either, there was no need for we were as one.

Molly said come for a late breakfast, so we arrived at nine.  She was waiting on the front porch for us.  This morning she was made up and wearing a short skirt and white blouse with ¾ sleeves. There was a little lace around the collar and on the cuffs. I received a kiss on the cheek and Shelly got the same. She led us to the smaller of the two dining rooms.  Ted was waiting for us, shook my hand and Shelly received a hug.  This was the first time I had ever seen him display any affection for any one other than Molly and that had always been quite reserved.

“Ted and I have been talking.  First, the fucking money Frank left me. Ted won’t hear of having any of it. I’ve overridden his objections. What I am going to do is put an equal amount in each of our accounts.  The rest will be going into a blind trust for everyone that is related to me.  It will be distributed sometime in the future.  The goddamned lawyers can hash that out. You and Shelly are in on that.  You two have more smarts than the rest of us.”

Shelly and I started shaking our heads in denial. “Don’t matter whether you say no or not. You are in and you are getting a check once a year. Do the work or not, the check keeps coming. I’m betting you’ll be there.”

“Molly, I could get pissed at you sometimes.”

“Wow, John said a nasty word. I’ll take that as a yes to help set this up.”  I was still shaking my head, but was grinning at the same time.

Molly went on to explain how she and Ted were to get married. “We’re getting a license and then we’re just going to see an old judge that was a friend of Frank’s.  He has already agreed to perform the ceremony.  Can you get free this Friday? You two are going to be witnesses. I would like it that you not say anything until I announce that I’m pregnant. 

“Neil and Elizabeth are just married and Ronnie and Pam are being married in two weeks. I will announce it the week of July 4.  I will have another blowout here at that time. Ted and I don’t want a big deal made of this.”  She paused, and then went on, “Actually this is a big deal for both of us.  The renovation of the factories will occupy our thoughts day times, but nighttime this baby in me will be for us alone. I missed Frank for so many years, and Ted never had anyone to love.  Now we will have each other and a baby.”

Again, she paused.  “Christ, listen to me. I must be getting old and maudlin. I guess what I’m trying to say is that I am happy. Go on, go home.  You still have a few hours before the kids get home.  Put it to good use.”  There were tears of happiness in her eyes as she and Ted stood in the doorway waving goodbye.

---

The kids came home in the early afternoon. They were excited and gave us a moment-by-moment account of how Neil and Elizabeth had sprung on them what was going to happen and they were to be married that same night.  Madie and Will came to the chapel right after they were told about what was to happen.  From then on, it was an exciting time for everyone. They spent all Saturday at a camp the newlyweds had rented.

The one big decision was what my two girls were going to call Elizabeth. This had been decided at one time before, and it was reaffirmed that Kathy and Sandy call her Aunt Elizabeth. Technically, she wasn’t related. Jimmy was her son, they were his half sisters, and she loved them almost as much as she did Jimmy.  Here again it was Sandy that objected to calling her Mom as was suggested.

“I have my own mother and I’m going to have a step-mom who I’ll call Mom sometimes.  I can’t have more mothers than that. Someday, I’ll have a mother-in-law and I may want to call her Mom as well. It would be too confusing if I called you anything but Aunt Elizabeth.”  There was logic in this and Elizabeth bowed to Sandy’s wishes.

There was also a serious discussion about going to college.  Sandy insisted a way had to be found so they could all go together and live in the same apartment.

Neil came up with an idea for Sandy to study very hard and jump one grade during middle school. He was aware of how intelligent she was. She then would enter high school in the same class as Jimmy.  Sandy seized on this idea and wanted Kathy to work one year after she finished high school and then they could all be together.

I threw up roadblocks as fast as I could.  “Sandy you will have to work real hard and you won’t have time in your life except for study. By the time you are in eighth grade, you may want to go to dances and out to the movies with your friends. You’ll feel terrible if Jimmy and Kathy are doing these things and you opt to stay home and study.”

“It is what I want.  You say I’m smart and this is a good way to prove it to you. Anyway, you aren’t going to let me go out on dates until after I get into high school.  I really want to do this. If I get behind, I will ask you for some money to hire me a tutor. Or you can take it out of the profits I’ll be making on the apartments.”

Shelly put in, “She is extremely intelligent. She could do it if Jimmy and Kathy helped her. It would be nice if all three went on together.  I feel they would be much safer.”

“You went on. You made out okay.” 

“I know I did John, but I wished many times I had some boy around who I could ask what I should do in certain instances. I could have used an older sister many times as well.”

I made a half-hearted promise. “We’ll explore the possibility and see where it takes us.  It seems as though you are trying to grow up too fast to keep up with your older sister and brother.”

“They want us to be together.  It isn’t just me.”  There was that united front the three always presented.  So far, there was no reason to say it hadn’t worked well for them.

---

Shelly and I were ushered into Judge Joe Hamilton’s private home Friday evening. Molly laughed and joked with the judge and we were the only ones who knew how nervous she was.

“Molly, I’m glad to see you have a man who will make you happy.  Frank would approve I’m sure.  He thought a lot of Ted and would applaud your decision to wed.  Now Molly, repeat after me and then it is Ted’s turn.

Tears of happiness were in Molly’s eyes when Judge Joe charged Ted to kiss his bride. “Come, Mr. and Mrs. Theobold and have a brandy with me.  It always makes me so happy to join two people in wedlock. Tell me what your plans are?”

“Well Judge, I’m knocked up, so I guess I’ll have a baby.  This man here, John Rheingold, is shepherding me through the intricacies of renovating all those manufacturing buildings I own.  He even lit a fire under Neil’s ass and got the boy showing me a lot of promise. John keeps saying he does not want to be rich, but somehow I’m going to make it happen.  He is the smartest man I ever ran into. 

“The smartest move he made was to marry the woman that is standing beside him.  He has one son and she has two daughters and a finer family I never met. I even have her working for me and she is no dummy either. A few other things that are making my life exciting are that John’s ex-wife followed him out here from the east and Neil latched onto her.  They were married last weekend. 

“Shelly’s ex-husband needed a job and I put him to rehabbing those monsters that Frank’s family built.  He’s an artist and when he gets finished, all three houses are going to be just as perfect as they were a hundred years ago.”

The judge was laughing.  “Molly, how have you found time to get, as you say, knocked up?”

“Don’t know, Judge, but it seems as if everything is coming together. Oh, in two weeks I’m having a blowout in my backyard.  Shelly’s ex is getting married and I am having it catered. Judge, I want you there. You will see what is happening in my life.  Oh, please don’t mention to anyone that I’m pregnant.  I’m saving that for July 4 when I have my blowout for me and Ted.”

As we got into the car after leaving the judge’s home, I said, “You laid it on pretty heavy about me to the judge, didn’t you?”

“No more than you deserve. This is a good time for me, so I will say and do what I want. You reap what you sow.  I don’t know where that expression comes from, but it fits you. Let’s stop at the nearest fast food place and get us a hamburger. A person should celebrate on their wedding.” McDonalds, it was.

The kids finished the school year just before Ronnie and Pam were married. Pam had wanted to be married with just a small ceremony.  However, Molly convinced Ronnie to have the ceremony just before the reception, which was outdoors behind her house.  Molly had been so good about giving him work, he felt she couldn’t be denied.

It was a beautiful day. Neither Pam nor Ronnie wanted a tent and were glad when the day opened clear and cool. Pam’s mother was there.  She was a widow, her husband died three years previously.  She was a larger person than Pam. The comment was made about it and she explained, “Percy was a small man and Pam took after him.  He had a big heart, though.  We had some heartbreak early in our relationship and he kept me from losing my mind. That was long in the past and not to be thought of today.

“I despaired of Pam ever getting married, but I like Ronnie.  Maybe they will have some kids for me to be grandmother to.”

Sandy spoke up, “Kathy and I will be your granddaughters just as soon as Daddy and Pam are married. We would be pleased to call you Gram.  You have to take Jimmy too.  He is our brother, and we have already decided to call you grandma.”

“Bless you child. I can see why Pam is marrying your dad.  She has wanted children and she talks about you a lot, so I feel I know you already.”

Ronnie and his two helpers had constructed an arch to stand under for the wedding ceremony. Molly had made sure there was seating enough and had hired a photographer to record the event. This was a large crowd.  Mindy Evans and fiancé, including George Caruthers, his wife and his two small children were invited. A couple of others connected with the housing rehab and of course, the judge who had married Molly and Ted made his appearance. 

Ronnie’s parents were there and Jimmy got to know some cousins that were Ronnie’s sister’s and his nieces and nephews. Neil and Elizabeth brought Will and Madie. My three knew most everyone and felt it their duty to circulate constantly and make all comfortable.

Mrs. Johnson talked with Shelly quite a bit. It was late for this determination, but I do believe she was trying to find out what kind of a man Pam married. Shelly didn’t trash him, just saying that their marriage ended with a set of unavoidable circumstances.  Mostly from being unemployed.  She went on to say that when Ronnie was working, he paid the child support as ordered.

Overall, it was a great day for everyone and as the guests started to depart, Molly said she wanted a fourth of July party and invited everyone to meet here for another summer get-together.

---

Shelly was showing her pregnancy by this time.  We figured sometime around Thanksgiving was when the baby would be born.  Molly kept telling her she could cut back on her hours working for her.  “If I cut back here there is always something to do for John or the kids.  At least here I get to relax.” Molly relayed this conversation to me the next day.  I saw to it there were days when I had little or nothing for Shelly to work on.

Molly and Ted’s party on the fourth was almost anti-climactic. Even when she told everyone she had been married for a full month and figured she was almost two months pregnant, there just was not the excitement of a wedding. It was enough that the two were married and happy.

Neil would be twenty-seven when he had a new sibling. Molly was concerned about this until she saw how Neil thought of it as a huge joke.

I was busy planning the move from the warehouse in the Fortier complex to my leased property that my kids owned. I wanted things completed by cold weather.  I went about having the new addition constructed to place my equipment in on the west side of the property. 

Molly insisted on lending the money for this. How she screamed when she received the first repayment check from the “Rheingold Apartments.”  This was what Shelly had set up for a business name for them. Molly was overridden when I explained these kids wanted to learn how to operate a business and there was no better way than using this as an example.

We did follow through on Sandy’s request to skip one grade. It was decided that it would be eighth grade.  At the end of the seventh year, she would be tested and would be passed on either to the ninth year or just go into her regular eighth grade. She still had the sixth and seventh years to complete.

Those on the school board said it was foolish for a child to plan on something like this taking place and foolish for us to even consider it.  They were sure she would lose interest before she finished the seventh year.  I wasn’t so sure. They did not know how tight she was with her brother and sister. They would do anything for her by helping all the way through to her goal. After all, it was their goal as well as hers.

It was a busy summer.  I had my own business to move and get set up. I also was the one who Molly looked to keep the rehab project moving ahead in an orderly manner.  Don’t think I knew it all.  I spent hours on the phone talking to the friends I had made years before while I was married to Elizabeth. The knowledge was there, I just had to find and implement what I found. I even drew Elizabeth in when I was searching for someone I had spoken to about something, but couldn’t remember his or her name.

We were working in my office together a month before my baby was due. Elizabeth came in. “John, I’d like to share something with you. I’m pregnant.  I haven’t even told Neil yet.”

“Why tell me before Neil?”

“I don’t know. It just seemed right. I know of course that Neil will be ecstatic, but I guess I still look to you for approval.  Maybe I want to refute a statement I made several months ago. I said then to get married to provide an heir was the worst reason to get married.  I said that to you.  I’ve changed my mind, especially after I have fallen so deeply in love with my husband.”

“We all evolve. What is true one day is not necessarily true the next. You and I are the same age. I’m looking forward to us having our child and maybe one more. In your case, the child is going to carry on your husband’s line.  That is good, but it shouldn’t be the main reason. I am having children because I love them. There shouldn’t be any other reason. My approval, not necessary, but I applaud your decision for the reason I just said.”

“Can I quote you to Molly on what you said?”

“No and I’ll tell you why. Use what I just said as your own words.  She has changed since she is pregnant herself.  She will love you if you use my words for your own. She may not share with you as she does with Shelly and me, but I guarantee she feels the same way I do. Of course, if you and Neil do have a boy, she’ll be that much happier.

“By the way, why does everyone come to me to share something?  I want to know.”

“I don’t know.  I used to think you were kind of a klutz. That was a long, long time ago. Now, when I make a decision of some magnitude, I think ‘I wonder what John would do or think about this,’ so I believe as you say, we all evolve.”

I was shaking my head. “Anyway John, you came through for me again. I will use your words.” She walked out the door without looking back. If I didn’t have a pregnant wife at home, I would think I had made a wrong decision to have divorced Elizabeth.  I actually liked her again. Nah, I have too much going for me at home.

I came in and kissed Shelly the minute I got home. “John, you won’t believe this, but I just got off the phone with Pam. She and Ronnie are pregnant.”

I burst out laughing. “Can you keep a secret?”

“Cross my heart. What?”

“So are Elizabeth and Neil.”

“Is she happy about this?”

“She came to ask for my approval.”

“That doesn’t surprise me.  That is what Pam called for---just to see what I thought about my ex-husband starting a new family.”

“Let’s see, first Molly and then Elizabeth and now Pam.  How come you didn’t ask?”

“Because when we got married we became as one. I wanted a baby so I knew you did too.”

“Good answer.  What is for dinner? Oh, by the way, I love you!”

Chapter Seven

It was about a year ago when I had first met Neil Fortier for the first time. That was the time I was looking for a contract to secure a stable supply to enlarge my pig feed operation. I wasn’t even married at that time, but I did propose that night.

I thought about all of the changes that had taken place. Four marriages and four pregnancies and all of these women were my friends and that included my ex-wife. I had earlier made plans to make my business in the warehouse improved and to buy the building within five years.  Now I was almost moved out of it and was starting production in another old factory building owned by my three kids and was working for them.

My kids had grown and matured beyond belief.  They actually were working hands-on in an apartment house tending to ten apartments. They were interested in my use of the remaining space that they owned and I was leasing. I loved all three tremendously, but it was Sandy who was special.  She had started on the road to doing three years of schoolwork in two. I was surprised by the way she had taken hold.  I think she had more discipline than I would have given her credit for and for being so dedicated.

Yes, and we were going before the authorities to ask for permits to start the reconstruction of eight old factory buildings.  This was to be the first of its kind in this part of the city and we were counting on our presentation to encourage more of the same with other empty factories. I was going to be part of this along with Neil. The paper work was ready and it was down to the oral question and answer period.

For that, we had brought back Christian Stone to relate what he had done in the east.  George Caruthers and Mindy Evans had drawn pay for several months and were more than ready for this. There was Elizabeth’s fine hand in organizing both the content and the order. She opened the first meeting

“My name is Elizabeth Fortier. Neil Fortier is my husband. Gentlemen, and I see one lady present on this board. Mrs. Theobold owns these buildings. We are hoping to get permits to rehab them.  She is the former Mrs. Frank Fortier.  For those of you who do not know the history of the old factory complex, hear her tell about herself and how she came to own them. Please give her five or ten minutes.” Elizabeth sat down.

“I was Molly Fortier for twenty-seven years. Frank picked me off the streets when I was fourteen. I was an orphan at the time. My first memories were of a Catholic Orphanage. That closed and I was moved to another when I was five.  That home lasted three years and then there was a fire.

“It burned up all of my records, so right now I don’t know who I am or who my family was. I was given the name of Baker when I was placed for adoption, but I am aware that is not the name I was born with. I was placed in different homes by social services, but that life is hell for a cute little girl as I was at the time.

“I won’t go into that, but I’ll tell you I learned a lot of things that no child should hear about and to say nothing about having to perform. I took it until I was twelve and I figured I was safer on the streets of this fair city than I was in the places the Social Services lodged me.  I took to the streets and two years later, I solicited an old man for money for food.  He took me to his home, cleaned me up and within a few days loved me.

“He loved me enough to give me a child and he loved me enough to hire people to come in and educate me.  I returned all of his love fourfold I do believe. When it was his time to leave eleven years ago, he left me an extremely rich woman owning some old empty factory buildings that would someday fall down.

“A year ago my son met a man who was looking for a contract to supply the business he had established in the smallest of the factory buildings which was the warehouse. My son was impressed with this person and spoke to me about him. I met him and after listening to him suggest some possible uses, I hired him. These old factory buildings before this were always more baggage than an asset to me.

“All of the paperwork you have before you is the culmination of this man’s vision.  I believe you will find it complete in every way and all problems addressed.  This includes financing and all of the environmental concerns. The only new construction will be where the warehouse now stands after it is demolished. This is being replaced with a parking garage as high as the tallest of the old factories.

“There is a list here of all of those stores and businesses that have inquired about leasing space when the project is completed. This is just a sample of those who are already willing to sign on the dotted line.

“It has been verified that the public transportation authority would be glad to extend their route to this complex.  There will be many school-age children living here, and that has been addressed to some extent.  The latest new school that the city built could certainly handle this increase in its number of students. This permit request could have been presented two months ago, but we wanted to have all of our facts verified for accuracy. 

“I will not be taking questions, because those will be answered by those within their area of expertise that are here tonight. One other thing before I sit down.  I have turned boxes of papers that had been collected and stored for several years over to Mrs. Pamela Waters. She has compiled a history of the Fortier family and the factories the buildings were built to house. You may pick up a copy of an outline as you leave.  What she has done on it so far is interesting reading.  Thank you.”

All I could think of as Molly resumed her seat, was that Frank Fortier had certainly educated this woman.  She was eloquent beyond belief. With what he had started with, only love could do as fine a job.

The meeting lasted late into the evening.  I was not asked one question although my name was mentioned several times. Before the meeting ended, they all knew I was the one who had first talked to Neil Fortier and then his mother, Molly. Now all we had to do was wait to see if our requests for permits were rejected or passed.

Six weeks later, we had the permits. Two months after that Christian Stone signed the contract to start the renovation of seven factory buildings and for the new construction of one parking garage. It was projected to take three years to complete.

I was still a consultant. I spent about one and a half days a week looking at the progress and going over some of the paper work.  Was this necessary? Christian Stone was the contractor, but there were dozens of subcontractors under him. I was just one more set of eyes to make sure the work was done correctly. Other than that, I spent my time at the kid’s apartment house and on my own business of processing pig feed.

---

Johnny Junior Rheingold arrived right on time.  He was going to be John Sebastian Rheingold Jr. until I objected strongly, so Johnny Junior it was. I wondered sometimes if the little tyke would know who his real mother was. Elizabeth, Molly and Pam at first, seemed to live at our house.  It was claimed Shelly needed the support.  Molly would be the next one of the four women to have a baby. 

Molly put Ronnie to constructing a day center for four in her home. He had four months at least before the arrival of Ted and Molly’s baby. I believe all four women got together every day at some point to mother Johnny. I insisted I wanted to see my son every night for a few hours with just his mother and me in attendance. I had missed much alone time when Jimmy was little. He had often been in the care of a nurse so I could escort Elizabeth to many of the doings she would not miss.

Sandy was busy studying. She fully intended to skip eighth grade.  She was now in sixth.  I do believe she was as fully prepared with Jimmy’s seventh grade lessons as he was. If she wasn’t studying from her books, she was on the Internet looking up things that she thought could be related to either her lessons or Jimmy’s. 

In essence, she was taking two courses in one year. If she continued at the same pace when she reached her seventh year, she would know it already and could concentrate on the eighth grade lessons.  This was the grade she intended to skip and go from seventh, directly to the ninth.  We left her alone with Kathy and Jimmy to study, which seemed to be the best course of action. When she asked a question or needed an answer the three didn’t have, we were there to help her.

It may have seemed that the three were playing at being owners of the apartments and my business space, but that was not entirely the case.  I made them a small office next to mine. On Saturday mornings, they opened the office and held regular hours from 9:30 until 11:00 for the tenants to meet with them. They would listen to any new complaints. Then they would discuss with me if it was something I should be informed of as their manager.

This was more often than not just a social hour. To me they were learning all of the time how to interact with adults and it gave them a business sense that would carry them through life.  Several of their tenants were elderly and this gave those people a chance to interact with the younger set.

Sandy was usually the spokesperson, but this time it was Jimmy who approached me while the girls looked on. “Pop, I think we should invest in something that will improve the quality of life for our tenants. Sandy and Kathy both think so too.  It will come under long-term capital improvements and the government will give us a break on our taxes.”

“What is it and how much will it cost?”

“It is an elevator.  Some of our renters on the third floor have a hard time managing the two flights of stairs. The ones we have looked at will hold two people at a time and is limited to 630 pounds in weight. If we installed one, we never would have to worry about any of our apartments being empty because of the easy access.”

“I asked about the cost.”

“We can’t answer that. We do know the range is between $20,000 and $65,000.  I am thinking one with a 20-year warranty is what we want.  We can get an excellent one for $30,000.  Mr. Waters, Sandy’s dad, could install it in about two weeks.  He would give us a break on the cost of installation. We think it could be purchased and installed for less than $35,000.

“Now that you are leasing space for your business, we can afford this and can have the elevator paid off in ten years.” All three were looking at me intently to see how I was receiving their suggestion, “The three of us as owners are directing you to investigate the exact cost and feasibility of having an elevator installed.  When we have that, we will go to our tenants and bring it before them. We think they will agree to a $5 a week surcharge just for the convenience. Your business will not be charged anything because you will not be using it.”

“This sounds like it is a good plan and very well thought out. Consider this though, it is possible your tenants could shoot you down.  They might not want to pay the added cost.”

“We know that, but when it comes around time for rent increases, I’m sure we will have it covered.”

“Jimmy, you’re only thirteen. You did not think this all up by yourself. You couldn’t have.”

I got a grin from him and giggle from the two girls. “We spent a few hours with Mom and Uncle Neil last weekend. Mom has been studying on how to manage real estate.  She had just finished reading a section on how to raise the rents and how to have your tenants pay for increased services.”

I looked at the three kids in wonder.  Not in wonder at them, but because of my ex-wife. If my life with Shelly wasn’t so wonderful, I would be upset with Elizabeth. She could have worked with me like this when we were married. “I’m surprised at your mother.  I feared she gave you a piece of property and it would all be on me to guide you in making it work.  I see she is really taking an interest. That is great.”

“We think so too.” 

---

The years flew by. Christian Stone completed the rehabilitation of the Fortier project just short of four years from the time we had received the permits to begin. This was a huge undertaking and many agencies were involved.  The politicians flocked around and at the opening, the governor was there to give a speech.

Elizabeth dove into managing the whole operation. She had a larger staff than what I thought was needed, but she said if she wanted to go on vacation she wanted everything to go forward while she was gone. She was no lightweight either and was in the office most of the time. That is if Frankie Fortier-the-second did not need anything at the moment.

Neil was in charge of all the legal ramifications that came up constantly. I was still involved.  I had an office in Elizabeth’s management company.  I suppose it was quasi-official.  My duties were of a policy nature, to answer the questions as they came up. 

Shelly was involved with Molly and Ted’s personal finances, but was not involved directly with the complex. Pam was writing the history of the Fortier family and their ancestors. She does write some copy for the complex if she thinks it promotes the forward thinking of the reconstruction and if it could be transferred to a like set of other buildings.

Ronnie had completed renovating all of the three buildings where Molly lived.  They were of showcase quality and had been written up in several magazines.  Ronnie’s fortune was made as he looked around for like residential buildings and the people who wanted their homes now done by him. His biggest problem was which home of many to choose to rehabilitate.

Molly had a daycare facility constructed in her home and hired staff to work with her. By the time the Fortier complex opened seven children populated it. Johnny Rheingold was the first, soon followed by Molly and Ted’s baby, Theresa Theobold. Elizabeth and Neil’s baby, Frank Fortier the Second arrived next. Pam and Ronnie Waters’ baby, Richard, came a few days later.

Molly declared that she was all done. “Getting one in is great fun, but coming out it was too fuckin’ painful.” Elizabeth’s Nathan beat Pam and Shelly for our second one by two months and then Pam and my wife had their second child on the same day. This was less than two years after our first round of children. Elizabeth had two boys, Pam and Ronnie had a girl and a boy and we had Johnny Junior and Rachel.

Molly spent most all of her day with the children in the nursery.  These were her kids and she claimed them all equally. The kids as they got older knew and recognized their own parents, but would still go to Molly with their first smile. This was a day nursery and closed every day at five. Each child needs a mother’s and father’s love and that could only be found in their own home.

When Kathy received her vehicle license, she would shout, “We’re all going over and play with the babies.” By this time, Jimmy and Sandy were in the ninth grade together and Kathy was a year ahead. Yes, Sandy’s plan to skip a grade bore fruit. She passed the eighth grade tests required with an 82 score. This was more than enough to make her a ninth grader.

There was some setback for her when she became a freshman.  Remember the kids in her class were a full year older than she was.  She became quieter and a little less outgoing.  Not quite as confident as she was before. She certainly had not lost any intelligence.  She had gotten into the habit of double studying and this part of her life carried over. She was soon in the top 5% of her class, and then started working on her social skills for her age group

We first saw her uncertainties when both she and Jimmy were picked to be in the same play for school. In the play, Jimmy was the groom and Sandy was the bride. Sandy was 14 and hadn’t been allowed out on a date with a boy as of yet.  Kathy at sixteen years, and well developed, had of course dated. Shelly and I believed she had been kissed well and often, but we trusted her.

The script called for a very chaste kiss at the end of the wedding ceremony. The teacher had cautioned that just a bare touching of the lips would be all that was condoned. The two were rehearsing at home and Kathy was making comments about how the wedding should go. Sandy was nervous and Kathy said, “Let me show you how.”  Now understand this was a comedy and the vows each had to repeat were outrageous.

She had us all laughing and when it came to the kiss, she hammed it up even more. She grabbed her brother by the ears and gave him a real kiss. I suspect he may have got a little tongue in the process.  “That’s nasty Kathy.  Sandy wouldn’t do that to me. Mom, find the actual ceremony for us.  I don't think this is something to joke about. I will do the play, but I want the real words to compare.  I remember when you and Pop were married and Mom and Neil.”

“Okay, I’ll find them.” 

All three looked to me to read these solemn words. Before the evening was over the two actors had their speeches and their words down pat.  The kiss as rehearsed, I’m sure would pass the acceptable kiss test in school for the play. “Kids, I’m pleased that you take the real service seriously. I am sure as you go forward in life you will look back on tonight and remember the real one. Comedy is satire and I don’t think this play is really appropriate for your age group, but you have been chosen as the actors, so do your best.”

We all went to see the play.  Sandy wasn’t nervous that night.  She was the star. The kiss was just a little more than rehearsed, but not enough to bring down the wrath of the teacher. It was little known that Sandy and Jimmy were brother and sister. They had different last names, which made it easier to forget they were.

Before the year was completed, Sandy was back to her old bright self, and now socially confident.  Kathy had been in charge for the year, but Sandy resumed her place at the head of the trio again.

“Mom and Dad, I have a science project. I’m supposed to collect some DNA from three different people and it is going to be sent to a laboratory somewhere.  When the results come back, they will be discussed in class. It is a blind test and no one from the school will know whose DNA it is. Who do you think I should get it from?”

“Well if you want to use people you know, use yourself and maybe Molly.  She will let you use hers. You cannot use your dad because of you and you cannot use Neil because of Molly. Use Pam, I’ll bet she would let you.”

“Okay. Kathy would you take me over to see Aunt Molly and then we will go see Pam.  I’ll tell them I need to do this for a school project.”  Shelly and I were so pleased that the three kids were as close as ever. Kathy drove and dated. In two months, Jimmy would be getting his license and would be dating on his own. What would happen then?  I worried about it.

A few weeks later, Sandy called from school, “Papa, I’m in trouble.  Can you and Mom come to school and tell them I did just as I was instructed to do.”

“What is this about?”

“It is about the DNA laboratory test that I was involved in six weeks ago.  The results from the samples came back and the tests show two of the people are related.  I was supposed to pick unrelated people and I swear I did.  They won’t believe me.”

“Let me find your mother and we will be there within the hour.”

Shelly and I sat in the science teacher’s office. “Please explain what the problem is?”

“I asked Miss Waters to get three unrelated samples.  Two of the results have come back as being real close of one family. You explain how she could have made a mistake such as this.”

“What we know and why we advised her who to take the samples from.  She took her own.  She took her stepmother as a second sample. She is unrelated by blood there. The third came from a woman who did not know either us or her stepmother before six years ago.  We couldn’t conceive that Sandy could make a mistake choosing these people to agree to have their DNA submitted.”

“Please tell me about what you know about the three persons and their histories?”

“Sandy Waters.  Her father is Ronald Waters. He was married to my wife, Shelly at one time. They divorced and Sandy became my stepdaughter when we married. That should be enough about Sandy.”

“I’m sure it is.  The stepmother. Tell me about her.”

“I met her when she was thirty-five. Pamela Johnson Waters is now forty-years-old. And has been married to Sandy’s father for four years or more. I have met her mother, a Mrs. Johnson.  She is a widow and has been for several years.”

“Was Pamela adopted, do you know?”

“No, I don’t believe so.”

Shelly spoke up, “I do know Mrs. Johnson had a child before she was married. She gave it up for adoption.  She searched for her for years, but couldn’t find a record of her anywhere. It was as if she disappeared into the system and then lost.  Later Mrs. Johnson married the father of their illegitimate child and had Pam. Do these two people’s DNA in question show up in the samples as sisters?”

“They do.”

“What does this mean, Mom?”

“It means that Aunt Molly and your stepmother Pam are sisters. The child your grandmother has been looking for has to be the one you call Aunt Molly.  You would agree with this wouldn’t you?”  Shelly was questioning the teacher.

“I would say so.  It certainly points that way. You should contact a lawyer and find a way to approach all three parties, the mother and the two women.” He looked at Sandy.  “Well, young lady, it looks as if your mistake has turned out much differently than we expected. I hope this is a good thing and all parties will be happy.”

“They will. Pam is one of Aunt Molly’s favorite people.”

“May I have permission to use this as an example of what DNA can turn up unexpectedly?  I won’t use any names.  We are specifically barred from that anyway.” 

“I think I will withhold permission until I contact the son of the older woman.  You will hear in a day or two.”

“Fine.”

“Papa, can I be the one to break the news?  It was me who discovered it.”

“We have to talk to Uncle Neil first.  We will call him to come over this evening.  In the meantime you may tell Kathy and Jimmy.”

Neil and Elizabeth came in after dinner.  “What’s up, John, you sounded serious on the phone?”

“Neil, something came up at school today.  It was about a project Sandy was working on. The results she received can be classified as something at the least as unexpected or at most, unbelievable. I’ll let her explain.”

“Uncle Neil, did Aunt Molly ever want to know who her father and mother were?  Would she be happy if she found out?”

“She would be so happy.  Not knowing where you come from and who your parents are, leave a big hole in your life.  Don’t tell me you found them?”

Sandy was bouncing up and down in her chair nodding yes. “Not only that she has a sister who she even knows very well. I wanted to make you guess, but I am telling you my step-mom Pam, is your own aunt and Aunt Molly and Pam are really and truly sisters.  Grandma Johnson is the mother of Aunt Molly as well as Pam.”

“Are you serious?”  Neil looked closely at Sandy and then looked at us.  He could tell by our expression that it was so.  “Please explain how you found this out?  No wait, I think we should get Pam and Ronnie over here and you tell all of us together. We will have to figure out how to tell my mother and Mrs. Johnson.  Pam should do that.”

While we were waiting for Pam and Ronnie to arrive, we dug out some pictures that were taken at their wedding.  Molly and Ted were in several of them with Ronnie and Pam.  Not once though were Pam and Molly standing beside the other.  We had some duplicate copies so we cut two up and placed the two together.

The most striking feature was the curly brown hair. Both had the same color hair, and on the day of the wedding, it was about the same length and style. Pam was at least three inches taller than Molly.  Molly was just a little heavier, which was understandable being that she was six years older. We couldn’t tell from the snapshot, but we remembered that their eyes were the same shade.

Sandy wasted no time when her step-mom arrived. “Mom. I know that Grandma Johnson has been sad because she gave up her first child. She told me about it.  I have found your grandma’s long-lost baby and your own sister.”

“You can’t have. Who is she?”

“It is Aunt Molly.  She is your lost sister.  We even have DNA proof.  I know because I almost got in trouble over it.”  Pam’s expression was one of disbelief.  “Now we have to break it to Grandma and your sister Molly.” It took awhile to explain fully how this discovery came about.

Before everyone went home that night, more decisions were made.  First, though, Pam called Sandy to her and kissed her.  “My mother is going to be so happy.  Not just now, but for the rest of her life. You will be right with me when we tell her who her long-lost baby is. It is not so much who, but that she is alive and well. She will be so grateful.”

Neil planned to ask his mother to come for a family meeting at his house on Sunday. It was big enough for all four families and Mrs. Johnson. “John you and Sandy will have the pleasure of telling my mother who her mother is.  She trusts you even above me. She’ll probably start swearing when she finds out, but I’m positive it will be from happiness.”

Pam called her mother and asked her to come for a visit this coming Saturday. She could stay over with her and go to the Neil Fortier’s to visit on Sunday and see the small children.  She could play with her grandchildren.  Sandy, Kathy and Jimmy will be there along with Johnny and baby Rachel, the Rheingold little ones. It was to be a special family day. Neil and Elizabeth’s two little ones would also be there.

“Will that nice Molly Theobold be there as well?”

“Yes Mom. Neil is inviting his mother and his tiny baby sister, Theresa. Everyone that is connected to the Fortiers will be there.”

“I don’t know.  It will be noisy with all the babies and little kids. Couldn’t I stay at your house while you and Ronnie go?” 

“No, you have to go with us.  Neil and Elizabeth asked for you special. You can hang out in a different room with my step-kids if it gets too raucous.”

“Okay, I guess I can stand one afternoon with so many people. How old is little Richard now?”

“He is three and a half.  The baby will be two next month. We will talk when you get here. Mom, I love you.  I’m promising you a great weekend.”

“That’s a funny thing for you to say.”

“You just wait and you’ll see what I mean.”

---

Molly asked as she and Ted came in, holding Theresa by the hand, “What’s the occasion? We usually have these get-togethers at my house.  I’m all set up in the nursery for the little ones.”

“Molly, my mother is here and she has never seen the inside of Elizabeth and Neil’s home.  We just thought it would be a change. She has visited at John and Shelly’s house before. Besides, Sandy did something in school and she wants to tell her Grandma about it.  We’ll eat first.”  It was a normal meal, but there was an underlying something most of us felt.

Molly was the perceptive one. “What’s going on?  You all act as if you are hiding something. The only one normal here is Mrs. Johnson.  Don’t tell me you are all going to have more babies?”

“I’ll tell you right after dessert, Aunt Molly.” 

Molly looked at us. “It had better be good.  It ain’t right keeping secrets from this old lady.”  We laughed for Molly was far from looking or acting old.

Just then, the four of the oldest small kids started parading around the room shouting something.  Johnny Junior led the parade, then Richard Waters followed by Frankie Fortier.  Little Theresa brought up the rear.

Molly’s face turned red. Mrs. Johnson asked, “What are they saying?”

Neil answered, “I would guess it is my mother’s chosen swear word of the week. My little sister has the biggest vocabulary of expletives you have ever heard. Luckily, they don't remember many and they certainly don’t know what they mean. Mother, tell us what they are saying?”

“I think it is s-h-i-t. There I spelled it out. How come they pick up these words anyway?”

“That’s because you swear all the time.”

“Guess I had better watch my language, hadn’t I?”  This was a joke. Everyone who knew Molly had reminded her not to swear in front of the kids.

Finally, the floor was turned over to Sandy.  Pam and I had subtly moved Molly placing her beside Mrs. Johnson.  I took the chair on the other side of Molly.  Pam had the chair beside her mother.

“Molly, how about holding my hand?  You hold Mrs. Johnson’s hand and Pam will hold her mother’s hand. This will show us all as friends and maybe more.”

“You guys are certainly acting crazy.  Shelly, where is your camera?  I want a picture of me holding your husband’s hand.  I offered him a quicky one time, you know, but he wasn’t having any. That was the same day he pointed me at the man I have come to love above all else.”  She beamed at Ted, who was across the room.

“Sandy, I guess you can start.”

“Okay Papa.  Grandma Johnson, you told Mom one time you had a baby before you were married to Pam’s dad. Tell us what happened?”

“Sandy you are fifteen.  I guess I was a little wild at that age and objected to the way my parents were bringing me up.  There wasn’t any such love in my family as I see between everyone here.  Anyway, I turned to Pam’s father, and we weren’t too careful.  He was fifteen the same as me.  We had a baby.  There wasn’t such a thing as legal abortions for us back then in this state. 

“We gave the baby up for adoption and I never saw my little baby girl again. Later I married my boyfriend and six years after I gave up my first child, I had Pamela.  It has made me terribly sad and I often wonder what has happened to her.  I’m hoping she has had a good life.”

“That is so sad, Grandma.  May I kiss you?”  Kathy and Sandy went up and kissed their step-grandma.

Sandy directed her attention to Molly, “Aunt Molly, you have often said your early years weren’t very happy. Would you tell Mrs. Johnson about them?  We all know your story, but she doesn’t.”

“Not much I want to remember. I grew up in a Catholic orphanage, but it closed and I was placed in another facility.  I hated it there, but it was much worse for me after the place burned.  I lost all of my things, even the papers that said who I was. I’m not even positive how old I am. Social Services took me and put me into different homes to stay.  I was treated horribly. 

“Finally I couldn’t stand the abuse and I ran away and took to the streets. I suppose I was abused there as well, but I did make some friends, and some of them watched out for me. Sure, I had to do certain things, but it was no worse than what I had been forced to do by some of the people who I was placed with to supposedly care for me.

“Then one night I approached a man on the street and asked him to buy my favors. Frank Fortier took me home and you can say the rest is history. I can say that except for Frank passing away when his time came, I have had a good later life. What’s this all about?”

“Aunt Molly and Pam, remember I asked for your DNA for a school project? I got into trouble because I was supposed to pick three unrelated people.  I used my own DNA. When the results came back, two of the people were closely related, and I wasn’t one of them.” 

Sandy paused here, waiting for the facts to be assimilated. No one said anything. “Mom, leave Grandma for a minute and go give your sister a kiss.  Grandma, what I’m trying to tell you is that Aunt Molly is your long-lost baby and I have the papers to prove it.” Molly had put her cheek up for Pam to kiss. It still would take a minute to sink in.

Molly sat there staring at Sandy.  Then she looked at Neil. She was squeezing my hand as hard as it had ever been squeezed.  Neil nodded and got up and sat beside Mrs. Johnson. “This makes you my own true grandmother.  Little Theresa is my sister and your grandchild the same as I am. Frankie and little baby Nathan, are your great-grandsons.  Even Jimmy Rheingold comes in as related, because he is my step-son.”

Mrs. Johnson was in shock.  She turned to Molly.  Molly had a relapse, “Well fuck me, I think I got me a mother and I got me a sister.”

Mrs. Johnson looked at Molly.  “Young lady, you’re going to have to clean up your speech.  I don’t want my grand-kids swearing like you do.”  Just then, the four kids got up from the floor and ran around repeating Molly’s expletive. Everyone was laughing.

“Okay Mama, I promise.” For once, I do believe she was serious about not swearing.

Chapter Eight

You have to observe, we all were more than family. I guess you could say we were a clan.  We were all involved in the Fortier complex, but not exclusively.  Neil had his law firm.  Elizabeth had her realty agency. Pam and Shelly did work with the complex as needed.  Ronnie was in charge of keeping our homes in repair.

Molly was the head, but it was I who hammered out the policy.  I was often asked for advice about many different things and dealt with them as they came up. We had our own personal lives to lead. Once in awhile I was asked to mediate a dispute between Neil and Elizabeth or Pam and Ronnie and even Molly and the rest of us. Why?  Don’t ask me. 

My three older kids were still adamant about all wanting to go to college together. Kathy, the oldest, was working for a year. “Dad, I want to take over your management position at the pig feed operation for a year while I’m waiting for Sandy and Jimmy to finish school.  I will be taking business management courses when I get to college.  It will be a good experience.”

“Okay. Do you think you can handle the truck drivers that come in delivering grain and the bread from the bakeries? They get pretty bold.”

“I can handle them.  Aunt Molly has been giving me lessons. I can swear and I can flirt and if that doesn’t work, I’ll kick ’em in the balls. Seriously, I think I can do the job just fine.”

“Okay, but don’t wait to tell me if you have any trouble.”  Kathy was the biggest of the three kids.  She was slightly over Jimmy’s 5 feet 10.5 inches. She was also full figured.  I never doubted she could handle her own in most instances.

Kathy had been dating since she was sixteen and had always had a boyfriend around. She often double-dated with Jimmy.  That is until we let Sandy start to date. Jimmy had his license, so he usually drove Sandy and her boyfriend while he had a girl of his own. 

Sandy excelled in drama and led the debating team. She went to state when she was a senior and won the contest.  Jimmy played shortstop and was clean-up batter.  He broke the school record for runs batted in two years in a row. I would guess the record that he made as a junior and broke himself in his senior year would stand for years. He wasn’t interested in making a career as a sports figure. He didn’t say why.

Sandy was valedictorian when she graduated. Jimmy had an average in the top seven percent and we were satisfied with that. Elizabeth was damned proud, letting everyone know how well her son and stepchildren did in high school. Shelly and I knew that the three would pick their own college. They would have little trouble getting into any school of their choice with the marks they had nailed down in high school.

They ended up choosing a smaller business school in the state system about three hundred miles from home. The main curriculum was focused on entering the business world.  They felt they had gained a lot of experience already. They understood that management and the bigger problems in business would take a more formal education.

They made the trip to the college early in the summer before the year started to look over the housing situation.  They did not want to live on campus so were looking to find an apartment that they all could live in by themselves. When they returned Shelly asked what they had found.

“We bought a small cottage. It has three bedrooms.  Two rooms up and one down. It has a small kitchen and a huge living room where we are going to set up cubicles so we won’t bother each other studying. Even with the taxes, water and sewer rent, it will be much cheaper than renting or living on campus.  We can sell it when we graduate.

“We have enough money to make a down payment and we would like to borrow the remainder from you and Papa.  We have put a binder down already, so basically it is a done deal.”

“Sandy, what happens if your mom and I don’t think this is a good idea and don’t lend you the money?”

“Come on Papa, Aunt Elizabeth would buy the house and give it to us if we asked her.  My Daddy is well enough off now, so he would lend it to us.  And too, there is Aunt Molly. I could claim credit for finding her sister and her mother. She wants to do everything for me.  She has offered many times.”

“Okay, I get the point.  You get the loan. I was just checking to see if you had thought this through. The point you made is, it is not what you know, but who you know, although I guess both would apply in this case. You seem to have a handle on everything. How about house rules and dating and all of those things?”

Jimmy replied, “Kathy just has to have a man around so she gets the back bedroom upstairs.  Sandy and I will still be going on double dates and we don't expect to be entertaining at home very much.  In the house we are all going to be doing chores together, although I get to take out the garbage and trash.” He grinned as he said this.

Elizabeth was the one paying for the schooling.  I couldn’t persuade her that Shelly and I should be the ones to do this. “No, I promised to pay for all three. It isn’t just the way you have brought them up either.  For God’s sake, look what you have done for me. My life has purpose now and I have a family that loves me.  I don’t think I had that the last years we were married and I’m not blaming you at all.  It was me that was too shallow to recognize what I was missing.”

Kathy had done a great job the year she was waiting for her siblings to finish high school.  All the truck drivers asked about her, telling me how much they missed her when they came to deliver supplies. In the production process, she had full control as well. It was declared I was going to have to go some to beat her being the boss and manager when I resumed managing the operation.

Kathy had grown into a tall full-figured woman and exhibited a zest for life. It didn’t seem to matter whether it was the little old ladies and men or young couples starting out, who were leasing the apartments. Or even the rough truck drivers and people on the first floor making pig feed. She would shout and cajole, flirt and swear. She was always in control and was respected and liked. She treated them all with deference unless they crossed her.  I sometimes wondered if she didn’t have as good a vocabulary as her Aunt Molly. It rarely was displayed, but it was there to use if it was warranted.

Jimmy and Sandy with Kathy still held Saturday morning office hours at the apartments.  It wasn’t often that Jimmy and Sandy overruled Kathy as manager, but it did happen on a few occasions. Here again it was Sandy who determined the fairness of any decision Kathy made as the manager and ultimately it proved correct.

Kathy had been given a vehicle when she graduated high school.  Jimmy said he needed one as well so he received the same, but Sandy said she would use one of the others, although she did have her license.  The others shared without stint. I don’t think I have ever known of sisters and brothers being as tight as these three were. Shelly and I often remarked on it.

Molly was always looking for an excuse to have a blowout. She gave the three kids a backyard party before they went off to college. Madie and Will came of course.  All three children treated these two older former servants of Elizabeth’s as grandparents. They were not neglected either, for the kids made a point of visiting them on their way to the apartment house every Saturday morning.

When they all returned home from the blowout, Kathy said, “We received enough going away gifts to furnish our house.  Actually Aunt Elizabeth gave us enough all by herself.  Daddy gave us a liberal amount too.  He said it was for not being able to provide for us when we were smaller.”

Shelly overheard this. “I could have used the money back then and sometimes I needed it desperately, but I don’t think I pushed too hard for it.  Well except for when I garnished his wages. It was somewhat tight for us even after John and I married. Connecting up with your Aunt Molly has made a big difference for all of us.”

“Mom, I think it was more like when Aunt Elizabeth came here to live near Jimmy. I remember at the time, Jimmy wasn’t too happy about it, but he said she had lots of money. He suggested we suck up to her and give her lots of love and she would give us every thing we wanted.”

“Jimmy, did you actually say this?”

“I did Pop.  When she first came here, I didn’t know if I loved her or not.  You were divorced because you felt she took all of your self-respect and she did.  We all knew that, but she changed and I think the girls and I helped change her.  It was mostly you, though, and you got your self-respect back. She finally realized how important it is.  Then you made her your friend instead of your ex-wife. Sandy, Kathy and I followed your example and she returned it to all of us. Now we love her as a Mom.  Please don’t tell her this because we all love her now.”

“I disagree, I think sometime you should tell her how you feel.  She would like to hear what you just said. For myself and Shelly, I don’t think we realized you had discussed her and acted as you have.”

“Papa, we aren’t dumb you know. We three have always been close and we talk about things and how we feel about everything. She does know how we feel about her and some of why.”

I shook my head.  Did I ever think things through as these children of mine have done?  No.  No, because I never had anyone as close to me as these three were to each other..

Ronnie and I took one of our trucks loaded with enough things to furnish the kid’s house. Pam and Shelly rode up in Kathy’s car, Shelly driving. This was when they decided they would use only one vehicle at school. There was only one parking space at the house and if company came, they would have to park on the street.

Kathy slept most of the way.  She had a date the night before and I guess she had partied hard. Jimmy drove his own car and Pam and Shelly would drive it home.  Halfway there at the second stop, Sandy transferred to Jimmy’s car so Kathy could stretch out on the back seat.

I mentioned to Kathy that she was going to be on her own in college and would have to be careful about her excesses.  “I know, but I won’t be seeing this guy until Thanksgiving. I did not drink that much.  I’m just tired.”

“That may be, but I didn’t say anything about drinking.  That isn’t the only kind of excess I was talking about.”

“Oh, you mean like when you have to go away for a few days and Sandy and I can’t get Mom out of bed the next morning?  You mean that kind of excess?”

I shook my head. “You’ve got a point.”  I still worried.

The first few weeks we had telephone conversations from our college kids frequently.  It dropped off before they came home for Thanksgiving.  They had made it home for one weekend, the four of us had driven up one weekend, and Elizabeth had gone with us another time when she learned we were visiting them.

Kathy said she had been on a couple of dates, but Jimmy and Sandy had not found anyone yet to date.  That did not mean they stayed at the house all the time, they just went out together or with Kathy as the three of them still enjoyed being together.

They all came home the next May.  Their house was rented out to a couple of professors, man and wife, who were teaching summer courses. Leave it to the kids not to let the prospect of money slip away.  “We learned all of this from you Pop.”

Kathy took back the job of managing the pig feed process for the summer, and of course all three resumed managing their tenants. This gave Shelly and me a break from this for the summer months.  Jimmy went into his mother’s real estate management office and Sandy worked with Shelly on the personal accounting she did for the families. 

Shelly handled all of the personal accounting for Ronnie and Pam, Elizabeth and Neil, our own and for Gram Johnson now.  Shelly did Molly’s and Ted’s accounts.  This was almost a full-time job, as Molly kept getting richer and richer.

When the kids headed back to school, all were adults, as Sandy had turned eighteen. Molly again had a big backyard party.  We were all so proud of these college kids of ours. Now it was time for them to decide what they wanted to do with their lives in the future. Jimmy planned to become a Real Estate Broker and Sandy said she wanted to become a Certified Public Accountant. 

Kathy wouldn’t say what she had planned for her future at this time. “I’m going to be working.  Maybe harder than my sister and brother, and it may not pay as much, but I will be happy.” We did not pressure her to share her goals with us.

Sandy was Molly’s darling now that it was she who had discovered her mother.  Gram Johnson felt the same way about Sandy finding her daughter.  It was odd, but Molly and Mrs. Johnson as mother and daughter did not draw that much closer together. It was as if each had filled in the gap in their lives and that was all that was needed to fulfill them.  Nice to know, but Mrs. Johnson had given her baby up and still felt some guilt. Molly had a rough start to life and couldn’t totally forgive her mother for her many years of unhappiness.

Mrs. Johnson of course resented this.  It was left to Pam to bridge the gap.  Molly did make sure her mother had everything now, as she certainly could well afford it.  It was left to Pam to administer the largess from Molly to her mother.  It was hoped by the rest of the family this would change as both aged. This didn’t take away any of the feelings they had for Sandy.

Shelly and I saw Sandy draw Molly away from the rest of the crowd at the party.  She had her on the far side of the lawn and looked as if she was trying to explain something. A few minutes later Jimmy drifted over and entered into the conversation. I could see that Molly didn’t wholly agree with them about what was being said. It broke up when Molly kissed Sandy on the cheek and hugged Jimmy.

“What was all of that about, Molly?”

“John, I can’t say.  Sandy was looking for advice about something.  She came to me, because she is related to everyone by blood or as a stepchild. Jimmy is her protector as always and suggested she talk it over with me. You will find out eventually and I have no idea how everyone will accept it. That’s all I’m going to say.”

“Sandy isn’t pregnant is she?”

“God no John, Sandy is smarter than that. There is nothing illegal about it either. I would forget it for the time being if I was you.  I wish she had come to me without the family around and where everyone could see her talk to me. She will tell you someday and you may be disappointed in what she has done, but then again maybe not. She is a sweet child.  No, let me amend that.  She is an adult now and well able to make her own decisions. She’ll accept the consequences if there are any.”

It was Pam, Shelly and Elizabeth who escorted the kids back for their second year of college. What I called the second baby crop were old enough to be left with their fathers so Ronnie, I, and Neil could look after them while our women were away for two days.

I received a call from Jimmy at 11:15.  “Pop, ask Mom if she ever drinks too much.  Mother took us out to a lounge after dinner and all three older women got pretty loud.  We kids weren’t drinking of course, but Mom, mother and Aunt Pam were letting their hair down. I had to call a taxi when we were asked to leave. We followed them back to the house. I don't think they will be coming home tomorrow.  They will be staying over one more day.”

Shelly looked pretty sheepish when she came home. I asked her if she had a good time.  “We did. It was like being back in college again. Elizabeth sure knows how to party.”  This was all that was said and then she grinned at me.

When it came time to take the kids back to college for their third year, Neil, Ronnie, and I, drove them up to the school.  This was at Shelly’s suggestion.

---

It was I who made a discovery two months into their third year. It was something that rocked everyone’s boat. It shocked some of us, disturbed others and could have upset the balance between us all.

One Wednesday I was traveling in the upper part of the state.  I was only 45 miles from the college where the kids were attending. Rather than stay in a motel, I decided I would drop in on the kids. It was nearly 7 o’clock in the evening when I arrived.  There was a light on in the living room.  I knocked on the door, leaving my car on the street.  Kathy came to the door with a textbook in her hand.

“Dad, what are you doing here?”  She stood with the door partially open with a shocked look on her face.  She was blocking my entrance.

“Kathy, may I come in?”

Reluctantly she said, “Yes, I guess so.”  She sat me in a chair near the door.

“Where are Jimmy and Sandy?”  I could then hear noises coming from the downstairs bedroom.  They were muted, but not enough so but what I knew what was happening. It was a man and woman and the sounds of sex.  “I thought that was Sandy’s room? Does she have a boyfriend here? Maybe I had better leave.  I wouldn't want to embarrass her.”

Kathy was speechless for more than a moment.  She suddenly made a decision. “Wait here.”  She went to the bedroom and knocked on the door, saying it was Kathy to those inside. After a bit I recognized Jimmy’s voice tell Kathy to wait and to come in after a couple of minutes.

She cracked the door just wide enough to slide inside the room. Now I could hear Jimmy’s voice and I thought another voice that sounded like Sandy’s. It was five minutes before Kathy came out. She wouldn’t look at me. In those five minutes while I was waiting, I thought the worst. A sister and brother making love.  That is if it was actually Sandy in there with Jimmy.

This time Kathy faced me. “Mr. and Mrs. Rheingold will be out soon if you will give them time to get dressed.  While you are waiting, would you look at this?” Kathy handed me a small leather letter-sized folder.  I opened it.

Encased was a marriage certificate, declaring that one, James Rheingold, and one, Sandra Waters, were husband and wife. It was recorded and stamped giving the address of the city hall in our fair city. It had been signed by the name of the judge who married them and I recognized it as the same judge who had married Molly and Ted.

I started to question Kathy, but she held up her hand for me not to say anything about what I had read on the certificate. While waiting I grilled her about what and how she was doing in her classes. 

It took fifteen minutes before Jimmy and Sandy faced me. Their hair was combed.  Sandy had on a nice blouse and a skirt. Jimmy had put on slacks and a dress shirt.  Sandy had taken time to apply some makeup.  I stood. They faced me bravely, and it appeared as if they knew this confrontation was coming someday. I could assume it had been rehearsed beforehand.

“Pop.” He stuck out his hand to have me shake it. This was my son and I loved him. I shook his hand.

“I guess congratulations are in order.”  I looked at Sandy and opened my arms. Daughter, stepdaughter or daughter-in-law, I loved her as much as ever.

“Papa.” She came into my arms and I kissed her cheek as she clung to me.

“Which one of you is going to explain this development?”

“I am Papa. It is going to take a long time though.  First, I must state Jimmy and I made sure our marriage is legal. A year ago, I asked Aunt Molly to make sure.  We waited a whole year after we found out that it was possible for us to wed. I’m nineteen now and we have been married for two months. Jimmy and I have been in love since I was eight and he was nine. This was not long after you and Aunt Elizabeth were divorced.”

“I’ll give you that. I didn’t realize yours was a different love than as brother and sister. Would you explain how you came to the decision to buck society and go forward with your plans to marry?  Twelve years is a long time to wait for someone.”

“You miss the point, Papa. I didn’t wait for Jimmy and he didn't wait for me. We waited for each other, but the waiting was only to wed. Our love has always been there. It all started in the park back where Jimmy lived at the time.  He brought some sweet buns to the park for a snack and I was so hungry that day, I asked him for a bite. The next day he brought twice as many. Sometimes he would look in our refrigerator, see what we needed and run home, and bring it to us. Kathy always called him her brother, but to me he has always been more than that.

“Can you imagine how I felt when we were going to be evicted and have to move away from him? That was the day you appeared and you were just as good to Mom and us as he had been. That is why we so wanted you to marry Mom. I prayed every night for this to happen and my prayers were answered. I was afraid when you wanted me to take the name of Rheingold that this would screw everything up. It was the major reason why I refused.

I asked a teacher who could marry and who could not. She explained it, but she also said it was easier to get married if you did not have the same last name.  She didn’t say much about blood or stepchildren, so we didn’t really know until Aunt Molly checked for us.  We were very careful in school not to act as brother and sister or admit that we were. Hardly anyone was aware we were stepbrother and stepsister. 

“In school I was always considered Jimmy Rheingold’s girlfriend, Sandy Waters. Even not many of our tenants know we are brother and sister.  We explain that I’m just living with the Rheingold family and am a state child, but you and Mom like me and say I’m hers to save explaining.”

I started shaking my head. This was unbelievable. “How old were you when you seriously started planning on a life together?”

“I was fourteen. That was when I had to kiss Jimmy in that school play. Jimmy helped by asking Mom to find the real wedding ceremony. It was you who read the words that married us. We felt this was appropriate. From that moment on, we considered ourselves married, not only in the play, but in real life.

I looked at Kathy.  She was sitting looking self-satisfied. “Kathy you helped with all of this.  Weren’t you jealous?”

“Sure, until I started dating.  I felt I could do things with other boys that did not seem right to do with Jimmy. I admit he and I did fool around a little, but his heart was not in it and I knew that all along he was Sandy’s love.  I would come home from a date and tell them all about my fooling around and what to expect, as they got old enough.  Mom and you trusted them because I was the blatant one and you watched me and didn’t watch them as close as you should have if you had wanted to stop it.”

“You two were always going on double dates.  How did you handle that?”

“We did go on double dates and we did do some fooling around with our dates, but we were committed to each other and always stopped before it got too heavy.  We would leave our dates off early and then we would fool around with the person we really loved.  We were never caught, mostly because Kathy watched our backs.

“Going out on dates helped in another way.  Mom made sure I was on birth control. We never pushed the envelope before that.”

“So you are saying, it was me who married you and it was your mother who made it safe to consummate the union?”

“Yes.”

“You two are terribly young to be married. Do you honestly believe this marriage will last?”

“We are as certain as any couple can be.” This was Jimmy speaking. “Look at you and mother. I will bet that when you married Mom and her money, you thought that this was the life you wanted. Please remember that Sandy and I have literally been together for twelve years and our love for each other is stronger than ever.”

“Yes, but speaking of your mother, she is the one who will cause the most trouble for you.  She will hate what you have done. She will feel that you have shown no respect for her at all.”

“We know that and Sandy’s father will feel the same. He will most likely want to shoot me. Sandy and I are so glad it is you who first learned of this. That way you can get Mom on our side.”

“What makes you think I will do that for you?”

“Because look at you.  You are sitting here listening to us rationally and we are depending on you to talk Mom into being rational too. It is a fait accompli and you both of you love us and have for all of our lives. We were your responsibility until we became adults. Now you aren’t really, but you still will do the right thing by us.”

I was shaking my head, knowing I was being manipulated. I also knew I would do just as they asked.  The last few years had been so comfortable for me and Shelly and I wanted it to continue. It couldn’t if these two were estranged from us. I was aware I could do without Neil, Elizabeth, Pam, and Ronnie, but I could not let my children go.

“Can you cut classes for two days? I think all of you had better come home tomorrow and get it settled as soon as possible.”

“Of course. You can stay the night can’t you?  There is a bedroom upstairs that is unoccupied.”  A grin appeared on Sandy’s face as she said this.

“Okay.  I’ll start making phone calls before I go to bed. Do you think your Aunt Molly will let us meet at her house?”

“Papa, she always has because you know and I know she will do anything for you.” Were smart kids the best for a man to have?  It made you wonder sometimes.

I called my wife, “Shelly, I’m staying with the kids tonight and not coming home until tomorrow.  They will be following me home.  There has been a development here we need to address when we get home.”

“Are they all okay?”

“They’re fine and healthy, no problem really.  I am calling Molly to see if we can meet tomorrow evening at her house. She will be a part of this too.”

“John, something is going on.  You have never kept a secret from me before.”

“I know, but this time it isn’t my secret and I was asked to not tell you.  You will know immediately after we arrive tomorrow afternoon.  I promise.”

“Let me speak to Kathy.”

“She has gone to bed and Sandy and Jimmy have too. Now please hang up and let me call Molly.”

“Do you still love me?”

“I love you more than life itself.”

“You’re sure everyone is okay?”

“Everyone is, I promise.”

“Okay, I’ll trust you.  Night sweet.”

“Hi Molly, this is John. How are you tonight?”

“I’m fine. It’s late you know.”

“Yes, I know. I was hoping you would do me a favor.  Would you gather the family together for tomorrow evening?  Mrs. Johnson needs to be there and I’d like Madie and Will as well.”

“Why?”

“Just because of something that took place a couple of months ago. I am here with the kids and I discovered it a few hours ago.  I want to get this out into the open and over with as soon as possible.”

“I can do this.  Does Shelly know yet?” 

“No, but she knows something is up.  She will know before the others do as Sandy will tell her just as soon as we arrive home tomorrow.”

“Caught the two in bed together didn’t you? I’ll bet you were relieved to find out they were husband and wife. John, how do you feel about them being married? The whole family will look to you and what you are going to do about them being husband and wife.”

“Molly, I loved Jimmy as a baby.  I still feel the same about him. Sandy and Kathy came into my life.  I loved them immediately and I still love them now. What they have done might be questioned by some people, but it feels right to me.”

“They will be all right then. I’m standing with you and with them.  Shelly will too. Get some sleep and I’ll see you tomorrow.”

I did sleep.  Jimmy shouted up the stairs, “Warwicks.  Get up Pop, we want to leave in a little bit. This is a big day for us.” It was not even light. I looked at my watch and saw it was only 5:30.

I came down the stairs.  “God it must be nice to be young.”

“Hey Papa, this is the first day of the rest of our life and you’re part of it. Don’t be a grouch.”  She met me at the bottom with a hug and a big smile. This morning I took a long look at her.  She looked like a young bride.  When did she change from my sweet little girl to a now married woman?

“You guys don’t seem worried about how the family is going to take this. Are you?”

“No, because we have you behind us.  Mom will be okay.  Aunt Elizabeth will look sour and have a few words to say.  Then she will look at you see how things are setting with you. She might not even ask and take it in stride when she sees it is okay with you.  

“Daddy will cuss and swear and Pam will tell him to shut up and to be happy for us.  If he won’t, Aunt Molly will swear at him and tell him to shut the fuck up, the kids are married and there isn’t anything he can do about it, so accept it.”

“You’ve got it all figured, have you Mrs. Rheingold?”

“That gets you a kiss, Papa.  You’re the first except Kathy and my husband who has addressed me as a married woman.”

It wasn’t long before we were on the road. We should be home by 2:00 at the latest. The newly married couple followed me.  Kathy was riding with me. “I have the feeling you have your life all sorted out with what you want to do. You said one time you were not ready to share yet, but I think you should at least tell me. I don’t need more surprises.”

“I’ll give you one thing.  Pete is going to be very happy tonight.  He thought it would be Thanksgiving before he got lucky again when I left for college two months ago.” I sorted through all of the Petes I was acquainted with in my mind.

“Pete Gembrowski.”

“That’s the one. Dad, look at me.  It is going to take a big man to keep me satisfied. I’m tall, I got big tits and a big ass, and I have found I love being with the working people in this life. Mom and Pete are going to teach me to drive big trucks and I’m going to get a CDL. That is for backup.  Pete’s dad is turning his half of the pig farm over to him the year I get out of school. That makes him your partner. We would like to buy you out and own the farm together.”

“Pete is older than you.”

“No older than Pam is older than my father. Jimmy and Sandy are going to be happy doing office work for a living. Not me, not every day all day long, anyway.  When you get sick of the pig feed operation, we may want to buy that from you too.”

“What am I going to do if this all takes place?”

“Who knows, but I’ll bet it will be interesting and something you’ll love doing. Look at the number of people who respect you?  There are all of the people who live in the Fortier complex. Businesses and people alike know they can come to you with a problem and they can come to you to have it resolved fairly. The businesses you have brought in and have given advice to when they were having a difficult time making a go of things when they first arrived.

“There is a waiting list of businesses who would like to have the Fortier address. This district covers the Fortier complex.  Also owners of the other factory buildings that are following your lead and being reconstructed.  The district even extends out to some surrounding farms in the city limits. This includes the pig feed operation and all of the people you have managed and are associated with it.

“You would make an excellent city councilman.  About four years of gaining city-wide recognition and respect, and then you can run for mayor.  You could buy your way into that office, but you won’t, although Aunt Elizabeth and Aunt Molly will urge you to.  You won’t because it just isn’t you.  There will be no need anyway, because of who you are.”

I looked in my mirror at the car following. I could see two heads as close together as possible. My mind turned to what Kathy had just said. If it would make my three older kids proud.  I would think about it.

Before I knew it, we were home. It was I who lingered by the car with Kathy as Shelly greeted Sandy and Jimmy when they explained their new marital status. When Shelly hugged them and looked over their heads toward me, I knew everything was fine. Little Johnny came running to greet his dad and little Rachel toddled as fast as she could to get to me. Johnny stopped and waited for his sister, taking her hand so I could hug them both at the same time.

The End