Stretch Marks

[PlayOn]

I got this idea yeterday when me, mom and dad were on a boat. I looked at a scar on my mom's belly and asked her if that was from the c-section she had to have me. She said no. It was from a sugery. That led me to thinking, though. What if it HAD been from me. Women go through so much to give us life. I hope to help young women and mom to bes with this. God bless you women. You know us men are babies and couldn't take the morning sickness, mood swings, etc. lol. ;)
NOTE: Stretch Marks takes place a few after the series end.
***

Dorothy “Tootie” Ramsey-Wilson waited by the phone, waiting to hear something from her new husband of a few months, Trey. Although, she was black and he was white, they loved each other. They ignored the stares, gawks and remarks as they walked the streets together. Their love was more important than what people thought.
They met at a fighter fighters charity ball. Tootie (or Dorothy, as she liked to be called), put on a few scenes from a play about fire fighters she was in a few months prior. Trey Wilson was a fire fighter trainee who was sitting a few feet from the stage. He couldn’t take his eyes off of her beauty. After her performance, she walked off stage. Trey’s chance. He went backstage to her dressing room (after knocking, of course) and they talked for hours. They had a lot in common. He loved the theater; she acted in one. She respected firefighters; he was one. He went to an all boys school; she went to an all girls school. They were both the youngest among their peers and friends. They decided to give a relationship a shot. What did they have to loose? A year to the day after they started dating, Trey proposed. Dorothy accepted. The rest is history.
She now waited by the phone, waiting to hear form Trey. He promised to call as soon as he got off of work. It would be a lot easier, Dorothy thought, if he wasn’t a firefighter. They were like policemen. They put their lives on the line every day. To make matters wose, this was his first day. Scary. Suddenly, the phone rang and Dorothy jerked it off the cradle.
“Trey?!” Dorothy asked, excitedly and nervously.
“Sorry,” came a familiar voice.
“Oh. Hi, Nat.”
“Still no word, huh?” asked Natalie Green, who had been Dorothy’s friend for years. They were still tight.
“No. Can I call you back? I need to keep my cell line and the land line free.”
“Sure.”
“Alright. Bye.”
“Bye.”
They hung up. And Dorothy went back to worrying. Earlier, she tried to take her mind off all this by cleaning. She couldn’t. She tried to watch TV. Soap opera’s usual baby switching stories weren’t helping. Especially since she, herself, was pregnant by a few weeks.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Ooooohhhh...a new fic! Great start Brandon! I can't wait for more.

[LoveMrsG]

I got this idea yeterday when me, mom and dad were on a boat. I looked at a scar on my mom's belly and asked her if that was from the c-section she had to have me. She said no. It was from a sugery. That led me to thinking, though. What if it HAD been from me. Women go through so much to give us life. I hope to help young women and mom to bes with this. God bless you women. You know us men are babies and couldn't take the morning sickness, mood swings, etc. lol. ;)

You're awesome, Brandon! ;) :hug:

[RoryGilmore]

Excellent start, Brandon, cant wait to see where you take this :)

[PlayOn]

Here's more. Enjoy. :)

Dorothy stood at the kitchen sick, washing tomatoes that were going to go in a vegetable soup she was going to cook for dinner. She heard from Trey a few minutes ago. He was on his way home as they spoke. Of course, Dorothy couldn’t have been more relieved. But, she couldn’t help but wonder: was it going to be like this every day? Worrying if her husband was going to make it home or not? If so, what kind of life was that? With her being pregnant, stress is no good on the baby. Nor for her. Selfish, maybe. But she couldn’t help it.
“I’m home,” Trey announced as he walked through the front door.
“In the kitchen!”
“Hey, babe,” Trey said as he walked in the kitchen. He went to Dorothy, wrapped his arms around her wait and kissed her neck. He smelled like smoke and he wasn’t the cleanest guy in the world. “What are you doing?”
“Fixing supper. Hope you’re in the mood for vegetable soup.”
“Sounds great.”
“Trey,” Dorothy said, nervously, wondering if she should even ask this. But she couldn’t just walk on eggs shells and pretend this was ok. “Is it going to be like this for now on?”
“Like what?”
“Me at home worrying every night if your going to make it home or not?”
“What are you talking about?”
“You being a firefighter. Face it, Trey. It’s not the safest job in the world. I don’t know if I can take what I went through today. I don’t think the baby can take what I went through today.”
“Are you saying I should quit?”
“I just want to know if the stress is going to let up. You’re dad was a firefighter. How did your mom take it?”
“Fine. She was nervous at first, like you, but after a while, she realized he was helping people and that she being selfish.”
Dorothy must’ve told herself that a million times that day, but it didn’t help then and doesn’t help now.
***

“That movie looks funny!” Natalie exclaimed, taking a bite of salad and chewing.
“I think so, too.”
Natalie and Dorothy were sitting at a little sidewalk café in Peekskill, New York, a place where they lived for years. Natalie moved to Washington to become a journalist at The Washington Post. Tired of reporting what was going on behind The First Family’s bedroom doors and wanting to do something that was actually journalism, she moved back to Peekskill to work for the local paper, The Peekskill Press. Not glamorous, but it was something.
Dorothy moved to LA to act in movies. She did get a part where she costarred with Denzel Washington, but grew tired of the process very quickly. The 3 am wake up calls to do a scene over when you’ve just done it 50 plus times can take a lot out of you. After the movie wrapped, she, too moved back to Peekskill. The movie was a box office smash and the studio begged her to come back and make a sequel, but Dorothy declined. She was a New York girl.
“When’s your next appointment?” asked Natalie.
“Tomorrow.” replied Dorothy, rubbing her tummy. “Nothing special. The good stuff happens after we find out the gender.”
“You’re going to find out?”
“Yea. I have to know what color to paint the nursery, pink or blue. Plus, you know if there‘s something to find out about somebody, I‘m going to find out.”
“True.” Natalie laughed. “I still can’t get over it. Our Tootie is pregnant.”
“Oh, gosh! Stop it! I want to be called Dorothy. Tootie makes me sound like I’m a train noise.”
Natalie laughed. Suddenly, her cell rang.
“Hey, Blair,” she said to the person on the other end of the line. She paused to listen. Blair Warner-Warner was a great friend of Natalie and Dorothy’s. Blonde, rich and beautiful, she was headmistress of Eastland School for Girls, the school she, Dorothy, Natalie and another girl named Jo attended. She was great at it.
“OK,” Natalie replied. “On my way.” They, then, hung up. “Britney is causing trouble.”
“Again? Isn’t that the 3rd time this week?”
“Yea. And it’s getting old.”
Britney was Natalie’s one and only daughter. Her former husband, Kyle, divorced her when he deiced he wanted something better (aka: a young supermodel with Molly Simms looks). Natalie was 6 months pregnant. She’s been on her own ever since. Dorothy (as well as all of their friends) felt sorry for her. But Nat didn’t have time for sympathy. She didn’t want it. She was strong. Everybody guessed she tore a page from Jo’s book of life. But, still, they worried.
Natalie laid down the money for the salad and walked away.
Blair sat in her office, talking on the phone. Her husband, Brad Warner, who was a banker, said he was going to be home late. He was always late.
“Why can’t they get somebody else?” she asked. “You’ve been working late all week. Even God took time off.”
“I’m sorry, sweetie. But the bank’s birthday is this this week and we’re throwing a big gala.” came the reply.
“And you’re one of the party planners?”
“I’ll be home as soon as I can. I have to go. I love you.”
“But, Brad…”
Too late. Dial tone. Blair said a cuss word under her breath and hung up. Suddenly, there came a knock on her door.
“Who is it?”
“Natalie,” came her friends voice.
“Come in.”
“I’m sorry about Britney,” said Natalie as she walked in the little office. “Where is she?”
Blair pointed to a sofa that was on the other side of the room. A 15 year old girl with sandy hair, skinny build and dressed in the traditional Eastland uniform sat on it.
“Britney,” Natalie began, sitting with her daughter on the sofa. “Why? This is the 3rd time this week Mrs. Warner has had to call me.”
“I’ll be outside.” Blair said, getting out of her chair.
“I can’t stand her.” Britney stated after Blair was out of the room.
“You can’t? Even after she took you in after every school threw you out because you’re such a handful. You can’t stand a woman like that?”
“I didn’t ask to come here. I was happy at Peekskill High with Travis.
“Travis? You mean that boy with all those tattoos and rings in his noise?”
“Yea.”
“He hustled drugs. No way I was going to let you go out with him.”
“You don’t even know him.”
“I know enough.”
“By what, mom?” Britney asked, looking at her mother. Anger was in her eyes and voice. “What people say? Way to judge.”
“Britney…” But Natalie didn’t know what else to say. After almost a week full of these arguments, she said the same thing over and over. Obviously, it wasn’t sinking in her daughter’s head, so why bother? Just then, she decided what she was going to do: fight fire with fire. “OK, you’re going home. You’re grounded. No TV. No music. No fun.”
“But mom…!”
“No buts, Britney. I’m sick of this. You’re supposed to listen to your elders. Go grab your stuff. Hurry.”
Britney sighed and rolled her eyes as she got up and walked out of Blair’s office. Natalie put her face in her hands and sighed in distress, hoping and praying she was doing the right thing.
***

Jo walked in her house, exhausted. Although she loved being a cop, it took a lot out of her. It shouldn’t have, though. She was in her 30’s, was in great shape and loved what she was doing. It was demanding by no means. Until a few weeks ago.
She fell down on the couch, put her feet up on the coffee table and sighed with gratitude. She kicked off her shoes as her husband of 2 years, Jake, walked in from the kitchen.
“Hey, babe,” Jake said. He leaned over and kissed his wife. “How was your day.”
“Long. My feet are killing me. Yours?”
“Same. Do to this economy, people are firing more than they are hiring.”
“I know. A man from work found out yesterday his mother got laid off of her job that she had for 30 years. It’s a shame.”
When Jo met Jake, he was working with one of his friends from college building houses, garages, fences, whatever people needed. She was walking past one of their earlier jobs one day when she noticed Jake and his coworkers on a space that was usually empty. After asking what was going on, Jake answered: building a house for a needy couple whose home had burned down for a little of nothing. He was taken aback by Jo’s beauty and asked her out. She accepted. A few months later, they walked were married in front of family and friends.
A few years later, prices on the materials needed to build houses sky rocketed. So did gas. Terry, Jake’s friend who hired him, couldn’t take it. He couldn’t pay for the truck’s gas, the materials that went into building AND pay his workers. We had to cut back. Jake was one of them. He’d been a stay at home husband ever since, looking at the classifieds everyday. Nothing. More layoffs than hires. It hurt him so much that, sometimes, while Jo was asleep, he would get out of bed, go to the living room, fall to his knees and pray that something would open up. He also prayed that Jo would never loose her job as a police officer. She loved it. Plus, what would they do then?
“Well, I have a doctors appointment in a few days,” Jo continued. “If this keeps up, I’ll ask him what’s going on when I go in.”
“I hope it’s nothing.”
“You and me both,” Jo smiled, turned and touched her husbands cheek, stroking it softly.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

This is really great Brandon. I am intrigued...hope you can post more soon!

[RoryGilmore]

Excellent job can't wait for more :)

[PlayOn]

Wait no more. Here's more. Enjoy. :)

“So, how did your appointment go?” Trey asked as he and Dorothy sat down to dinner the next night. He took a sip of wine.
“Great. Everything seems to be in order.”
“I can’t wait to find out what we’re going to have.”
“I know, but we’re going to have to.”
Suddenly, the telephone rang.
“I’ll get it.” Dorothy said, attempting to get up.
“No,” Trey said, “let it ring. We’re in the middle of dinner.”
“It could be something important.”
“But…”
But it was too late. Dorothy was on her way out of the dining room.
“Hello?” she said after she picked up the telephone. “Wilson residence.”
“Dorothy, it’s Frank.”
“Oh, hi Frank. What’s up?”
Frank was Trey’s boss at the fire department. Although he and Dorothy got along great, she always hated his calls because she was fearful he would drag her husband away to put a fire out.
“Is Trey around?” asked Frank in his thick New York accent.
“Yeah. He’s eating.”
“Tell him to come to North Street 2044. Big fire.”
One of Dorothy’s worst fears had come true.
“But, Frank…”
“Tell him to hurry. Bye.”
“Frank. Frank?”
Dial tone. Frank had already hung up.
“Who was that?” asked Trey as Dorothy walked back in the kitchen and sat down.
“Frank. He said he wants you to come to North Street 2044 and hurry. A big fire.”
“Oh, great! So much for enjoying a good meal.”
“If you hurry, maybe you’ll be back before it gets cold.”
“You’re right,” Trey replied, throwing down his napkin on the table and getting up. “I’ll be back asap.”
He kissed Dorothy on the cheek and walked out of the room. Dorothy sighed heavily. She tried to finish the rest of her meal, but it was too quiet. She turned on the TV and went back to eating. It didn’t help. You can’t have conversations with a box.
***

“Britney, I said get down here!” Natalie yelled up the stairs. “Britney!” No reply.
Suddenly, Natalie’s cell rang (ring tone: ‘Some Beach’ by Blake Shelton). How I wish I was on that beach Natalie said to herself as she flipped her phone open and held it against her ear.
“Hello?”
“Hey, Nat.”
“Dorothy?” asked Natalie in shock. She looked at the watch on her wrist. “It’s after 9 o’clock. Is everything ok.”
“Yes and no.”
“Huh?”
“Yes, everything’s fine. But, Trey isn’t back yet. He left to put out a fire and hasn’t come back yet,” Dorothy sounded upset. Like she’d been crying. “That was at 6 o’clock.”
“OK, calm down. Don’t jump to any conclusions. Have you tried his cell?”
“Yes. No answer.”
“Have you tried calling the fire department.”
“All they said was he’s at the fire scene.”
“It’s probably bigger than they excepted. Try not to worry.”
“Nat, I have a feeling something terrible has happened.”
“Like the same feeling you had when you saw the movie ‘Aliens’ for the first time? You said you ‘feel’ as though a new girl that just joined Eastland was one of ‘them’ and she came to suck the life out of all of us.”
“Hey, that girl was creepy. And, no. This is a different feeling. I can’t explain it, but I know it‘s true.”
“Well, what do you want me to do?”
“Just talk. It’s too quiet.”
“Alright. It doesn’t look like Britney’s hungry anyway,” Natalie looked up at the ceiling, sarcasm in her voice.
“Did you bring her home?
“Yea. No way I was doing 4 trips to Eastland this week. I’ve seen the inside of the headmasters office more this week than I have when we were students their.”
“She’s a teenager. She’s going to ignore authority.”
“So did Satan.”
“It can’t be that bad,” Dorothy laughed.
“Wait until you have your own kids. Speaking of which, how did the doctors appointment go?”
“Good. Everything’s in check.” Just then, Dorothy’s door bell rang. “Hang on. Somebody’s as at the door.”
“Alright. I have to go check on Britney anyway to see if she’s still in her room.”
Both women laid the phones on a local hard surface and went to check on what they needed to check on.
“Frank,” Dorothy said, surprised, as she opened the door and saw Trey’s boss standing on her brick porch. It looked like he’d been crying and still was. “What is it? Where’s Trey?”
“I’m sorry, Dorothy.”
Those 3 words said so much. Judging by them and Frank’s appearance on her door step, she knew. Trey was dead. But it still didn’t seem real.
“No,” she began crying. “No. It can’t be. I called the department and they didn’t say anything about it.”
“It happened not long after you called. I thought a face to face would be better than a phone call. I’m sorry.”
“NO!!!!!!” Dorothy screamed and fell to the floor. Frank walked in and hugged her, tears of his own dripping down his face.
***

Streets away, Natalie walked in her daughters room to find her asleep on her bed. Thank gosh she said to herself. She walked to Britney’s bed and looked down at her. She looked like an angel. Too bad she didn’t act like one when she was awake. Maybe Dorothy was right. Britney was a teenager and most (if not all) teenagers ignore authority. Her and her fellow Eastland friends did. Would anyone not call stealing the school van to go to a bar ignoring authority? Or going to New York after your house mother told you not to, like in Tootie’s case. God, Natalie silently prayed to herself, if any of that is going to happen to Britney, give me strength. But not so much strength that I kill her when I tear her butt up.
Then, she remembered about Dorothy being on the phone downstairs and she quietly walked out of the room, leaving her daughters door open.
“OK, I’m back,” Natalie said into the mouth piece. No reply. Then, she heard the cries. “Tootie, are you ok?” Cries. “Dorothy?!” Hanging up the phone and grabbing her purse and coat off the coat rack, she opened the front door and walked out, closing and locking it behind her.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Oh no, poor Tootie! I can't wait to find out what happens next. Post again soon please.

[RoryGilmore]

Poor Tootie.....

[PlayOn]

Thanks, guys. :) I'm hoping to lightnen it up some, so it won't be like this throug out the entire thing, although alot of it will be. Anyways, enjoy. :)

Mrs. Edna Garrett walked the dark streets of Wisconsin. She hadn’t been walking for a few days and it was starting to show. So, when her husband, Bruce and Leon, a 10 year old boy they adopted a few years ago, were asleep, she thought took advantage of the situation.
As she looked around at the familiar sights she was used to seeing as a little girl, she smiled. Life is funny. Years earlier, if you had told her she would move back to Wisconsin, she would’ve laughed at you. Yet, here she was, walking the same streets she walked as a kid. Things had changed, though. Some trees that she climbed on years and years ago were gone. Houses that weren’t their before were staring her right in the face. Heck, they even tore down her favorite ice cream shop to build a pharmacy. As sad as it was, at least she still had her memories. Like the time she feel out of a tree trying to sneak out to Make Out Point with Larry, one of her many boyfriends throughout her high school years and she scrapped her knee. She screamed so loud when that branch broke, it woke up the whole block. She was grounded for a week, and Larry was sent off to military school. She smiled now thinking about it, although at the time, young Edna thought it was end of the world.
A short time later, she walked past and stopped outside the Appleton Cemetery and looked at it through the closed, wrought-iron gate. Her mother and daddy were in their and tears welled up in her eyes. Although they have been dead for years, she still cried for them time to time. It didn’t last long. Now that she, her husband and adoptive son were living in her parents house, the house Edna grew up in a kid, taking care of her oldest sister who has cancer, she didn’t cry like she thought she would. Which is odd because when they moved in, it was the first time Edna had seen it since her parents passed. They been living in it for a few months. They moved in right after Dorothy and Trey married. A few days later, Edna’s older sister showed up on their doorstep, saying she has cancer and was wanting to be taken care of their mothers home instead of the hospital, if it wasn’t an imposition. Being a Christian, nurse and person, Edna couldn’t turn her away. Bruce felt the same way. So did Leon. He liked his aunt and she liked him.
Coming back to her senses, she continued on her walk.
***
“How’s she doing?” Jo asked as Natalie walked in the living room where Jo and Blair were.
“As excepted,” Natalie replied. “Upset. She won’t eat anything or talk. All she does is stare off into space.”
“I wish I could something,” Blair said, her eyes puffy and red from crying.
“We all do,” Jo replied, “But we can’t magically bring Trey back. Not all the hope and faith in world can do that. I tried. When pop died, I suddenly remembered stories in the Bible where Jesus and his apostles would bring people back to life. Like Lazarus. I stood over pop's head stone, closed my eyes and wished with all my mind and heart he would come back. Didn’t work” Tears were in Jo’s eyes now and she let them flow.
“Where’s Britney?” Blair asked Natalie, trying to change the subject.
“At home. She didn’t want to come. She’s glued to MTV and the phone.”
“How’s she doing?”
“Same old Britney, sadly.”
“Things will get better,” Jo said. “Heck, we were no better than her and look at us now. We’re mature adults.”
Jo’s phone rang then. Her ring tone was the sound of farts and kids laughing.
“Well, some of us are more mature than others,” Blair commented, a dry look on her face to match her tone.
“Hello?” Jo said as she held the phone to her ear.
“Jo, it’s Mrs. Garrett.” said the red-headed woman.
“Oh, hey Mrs. G. Are you in town yet?”
“No but will be in a couple hours. I was just calling to make sure you girls were meeting to Dorothy’s house.”
“Yea. Me and Blair have to go in couple hours, but Natalie will be here all night.”
“Alright. Tell her I’ll see her soon.”
“Will do. You enjoying the flight?”
“It’s OK. A bit bumpy, but OK.”
“Alright. Well, you be careful.”
“You, too. Bye.”
“Bye,” Jo said back. She hung up and put the phone back in her pocket. “Mrs. Garrett said she’ll be here soon. Didn’t say when. I told her you’d be here, Nat.”
“Good,” Natalie replied. “I’m glad she could make it. Too bad she had to leave Bruce and Leon to take care of her sister, though.”
“When I called her to tell her about Trey,” Jo began. “She said if they could, the boys and her sister will fly in for the funeral. Speaking of which, has anybody begun making plans for that?”
“No,” Natalie replied. “I was waiting until we could set down together. You guys, Mrs. Garrett, myself, and Dorothy.”
“Good luck on having Dorothy joining us for that,” Blair commented.
“I know,” Natalie stated. “All the money in the world couldn’t make her face the next couple of days.”
***

Dorothy laid in her bed, hot tears flowing from her eyes. Why did this have to happen? she asked herself. Her and Trey were just starting out together. They were going to be parents and live the American dream. Who knew? Maybe even have a couple more kids and a few dogs. They were young. The whole world was in their hands. Now this? Life wasn’t fair. Dorothy turned on her side, facing the bedside table. On it, sat a picture of Trey in his fireman uniform, smiling at the camera. He was so handsome with his brown eyes and short brown hair. She turned to the other side, so as not to face the picture. Another bad thing to do. Trey slept on that side. She turned on her back, staring at the ceiling. How am I going to face tomorrow? she asked herself. Or the day after that? How am I going to face life from now on?
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Jo said. “Heck, we were no better than her and look at us now. We’re mature adults.”
Jo’s phone rang then. Her ring tone was the sound of farts and kids laughing.
“Well, some of us are more mature than others,” Blair commented, a dry look on her face to match her tone.


:rofl: Jo's cell phone ring is hillarious!

Seriously though...you are doing a great job with this fic Brandon. I like how you've added some humor in an otherwise emotional story. I also like how all the girls are pulling together to help Tootie through this. I think this is your best fanfic yet! I can't wait for more!

[RoryGilmore]

Haha love the ringtone too!! You're right you did lighten it up some!

Anxious to read more :)

[PlayOn]

Thanks, guys. :) I was hoping the ringtone bit would work. And, thanks, Billie for saying 'SM' is my best work yet. :) Drama isn't really me. I like to write it, but it turns to out to be soap opera-ish. lol. Anyways, enjoy. :)
***

Natalie got a pile of blankets and a few pillows off of the top shelf of the closet, closed the door and walked to the living room. Blair and Jo went home to their husbands hours earlier. Jo offered to pick up Britney and take to her house. Natalie agreed. Who knew? Maybe Jo could straighten her out. Guess she would find out tomorrow, seeing as how the girls agreed to take turns staying with Dorothy each night in case she needed anything. Tomorrow was Jo’s turn.
As she fixed her bed on the couch, a car pulled up in the drive. Looking out the window beside the door, Nat saw it was a cab, dropping Mrs. Garrett off. The former dietician of Eastland paid the driver and got out of the car. As the cab drove away, Natalie opened the door for Edna.
“Thanks, sweetie,” Edna said, wiping her feet on Dorothy’s Welcome mat.
“Mrs. Garrett,” replied Natalie. She hugged her former school mom. Heck, all of the girls thought of Mrs. Garrett as their own biological mother. She stood up for them against Mr. Parker, the former headmaster at Eastland, God rest is soul. And offered them advice whenever they asked for it. She even gave it to them when they didn’t. Just like a mother.
“Where’s she at?” she asked, taking off her coat.
“Upstairs in her room. She’s been up their all day. Jo, Blair and I tried to bring her out.”
“Let me.”
***

Excepting it to be locked, Edna twisted the knob. It turned and the door opened. Surprised, she tiptoed to Dorothy’s bed and stared down at her. Tears welled in Edna’s eyes. So young. She and Trey were just starting out in life. Edna thought that to herself over and over ever since Jo called her, revealing Trey was killed by a burning beam that had fallen on him while he was trying to save a young girls life. They could revive the girl. Wish they could say the same about Trey.
Suddenly, Dorothy made a soft groaning noise and she turned on her other side, still asleep. Mrs. Garrett sat down on Dorothy’s bed as softly as she could. A few minutes later, Dorothy opened her eyes and saw her visitor. Sitting up and throwing her arms around Mrs. Garrett, she began to cry. Mrs. G wasn’t human if she didn’t shed a few years of her own.
“Thanks for coming,” Dorothy whispered softly.
“You know I’m always here for you. Nothing can keep me from my girls.”
“That’s why I love you.”
“And I love you, my precious girl.”
They hugged each other tighter, neither wanting to let go.
***
“Thought you might want some breakfast,” Mrs. Garrett said as she walked in Dorothy’s bedroom the next morning, carrying a plate with scrambled eggs, bacon and a biscuit on it.
“No, thanks. I’m not hungry.”
“Sweetie, you have to eat.”
“I will. Later.”
Mrs. Garrett started to protest, but thought better of it.
“Alright,” she sighed. “But you ARE going to eat later.”
“Yes, ma’am.”
“You were up all night, so you must tried.” Mrs. Garrett said, putting the plate on Dorothy’s bedside table.
“Actually I’m wide awake. Thanks for staying up here with me last night. The talk was much needed.”
“Anytime.”
Then, Dorothy yawned.
“Lay down,” Mrs. Garrett insisted.
“But, I’m not sleepy.”
“OK. The girls are down stairs. Do you want them to come up here?”
“No. Please, not now. I just want to be with you.”
“They’re really worried about you.”
“I know. And I’m sorry, but I just can’t face anybody right now except you.”
“Any why’s that?”
“Because you understand. You must have experienced a lot of deaths in your life. They didn’t.”
“I think you’re wrong. Look at Natalie. She lost her father. Jo did, too. Blair, although she hasn’t lost anybody, witnessed the loss of both Natalie and Jo’s dads. True, I have experienced more than they have, they still understand what it’s like to lose somebody they love.”
“I’m just afraid I’ll hear the same old ‘have faith’ and ‘he’s in a better place’ speech. I already know I’m going hear that from my and Trey’s family and friends at the funeral. I don’t want to hear it any more than I have to.”
“That’s understandable.” Mrs. Garret pounded her mind, trying to figure out anything to change the subject. Nothing.

[ZeldaGilroy]

That was sweet between Tootie and Mrs. G. Tootie really needs her right now. I also can't wait to see how it goes with Jo watching Britney!

[RoryGilmore]

That was sweet between Tootie and Mrs. G. Tootie really needs her right now. I also can't wait to see how it goes with Jo watching Britney!


Me too I wonder if Jo can straighten out Brittney.

[PlayOn]

Thanks. Here's some more. Enjoy. :)

"Well, Mrs. Garrett has been up thier for a while," Blair acknowledged as she and Natalie sat on the same couch in Dorothy's living room. She had to do something to break the silence. "That's a good sign."
"Yea. She was up their all night. I went to check on them before I went to bed. Dorothy's bedroom door was cracked, so I peeped in. They didn't see me. Mrs. G was laying beside Dorothy on the bed, stroaking her cheek and humming Twinkle twinkle little star."
"Dorothy's favorite."
Just then, the front door opened and Britney walked in the room, followed by Jo, who was limping.
"Hey, Brit," Natalie said. "Did you have fun with aunt Jo last night?"
"She's awesome. We worked on her Harley! I wanted to ride it, but she said I wasn't old enough."
"Bless you," replied Natalie, relief in her voice, as she looked up at Jo. Jo smiled. Suddenly, Natalie noticed her friend limping. "Are you ok?"
"I think so. My body has been bothering me the last couple of days. It really started singing the day before all this happened with Trey. I came home from work and practically had to crawl to the front door."
"Have you told you doctor about it?" asked Blair.
"No. But I'm going this afternoon for my monthly checkup. I'll let him know about it."
"If anything happens, call and I'll take your place tonight." Blair offered.
"Will do. Thanks. Where's Mrs. G?"
"Upstairs in Dorothy's room." replied Natalie.
"How is she?"
"Don't know. She won't let us talk to her. And Mrs. Garrett insists everything's fine.
"I hope she's not just not saying that," Jo said, looking up at the ceiling where Dorothy's room would be. She, then, looked at her watch. "Well, I better get going. Blair, if anything goes wrong, I'll call."
"Alright. Good luck."
"Thanks. I may need it."
***

Jo sat alone in the doctor's office. She'd been their all day and she was ready to go home. After a day of being poked and touched, who wouldn't be? She tried reading an issue of Good Housekeeping magazine, but it was no use. Her mind was on what the test results would show. Was something really wrong with her bones or was she just overdoing things? After all, she hadn't had a break since Christmas. And even then, she was running around like crazy, hosting parties, going to parties, shopping. Her bones bothered her a little then, too. She put the magzine aside and limped to a nearby window. A smile came across her face as she looked out to a nearby day care center. Kids of all ages were playing on a playground, swinging, sliding, laughing. How Jo yearned to go back to that time of life. Things were easy. Mom and dad took care of everything; the most kids have to do is show up at whatever place they had to be at (doctors appoints, school, sleepover, whatever). Mom or dad would drive you their. As one got older, though, they were doing the driving, paying the bills and taking care of themselves. Nobody else could and/or would help you. And when you do need help, half the time people just don't care.
"Alright, Jo," a male voice said from behind her, breaking her concentration. She turned and saw a man in a white labcoat, holding a clipboard and a stethoscope was around his neck. The name tag on his coat read. Dr. Andrew Bradigan. "You ready for your results?"
"You have them already?" Although Jo wanted to know desperately, she was suprised she would recieve news this quickly. The wonders of modern technology.
"Right here," Dr. Bradigan replied, holding up the clip board.
"Yea, I'm ready. Do I need to set down?"
"If you want."
Jo sat on the exam table, facing the doctor. She looked at him as though her life depended on it, which, it probably does.
"Jo, you have osteoporosis."
"What?" Jo couldn't believe her ears. "How did I get that?"
"That's what we're looking for right now. It's probably genetic."
"Genetic?! That's ridiculous! My mom nor my has had it. They would've told me."
"Please understand, Jo. I'm not saying that's why you have it. We're looking at every possibility. Do you or have you had menopause?"
"No. Never." Jo couldn't believe this was happening. She had osteoporosis. A second after Dr. Bradigan told her that, she started pinching herself to make sure she wasn't dreaming. Red marks were on her left arm thanks to all the squeezes she gave it. Nope, not asleep. "Can it be cured?"
"As of now, no. But there is medicine you can take, along with vitamins c, e and d." Andrew, then, wrote something on a white slip of paper, ripped it from the tablet and gave it to Jo, who read it. Boniva. "That's the name of the medicine I recommed to every, if not almost every, patient who find out they have osteo. Do you any questions?"
"Will I die from this..." Swallow hard. "Osteoporosis?"
"Most likely, no. We found it early so we think it can be cured.
"How? Surgrey?"
"That will be our last resort. Just take that medicine and vitamins and I'll check on you every other week. Anymore questions?"
Jo shook her head, still not believing what she was hearing.
"Alright," Dr. Bradigan sighed heavily. He knew Jo for a long while. He was even best man at her and Jake's wedding. Jake and him were old college buddies. He hated it when bad stuff happened to good people. "There are some foods you need to stay away from: caffeine, sweets, things of that nature."
"What? Am I just supposed to eat soy?" Jo snapped. She quickly regretted it and, importantly, how she said it. She was just upset. "Sorry."
"No need. I understand. Do you need a few minutes by yourself? Maybe you could call Jake and tell him. He could offer you some words of comfort."
Jake! Jo forgot all about him! How would he react?
"No," Jo replied. "I'll tell him face to face."
***

Jo sat in her car in the hospital parking lot, thinking about what she should do next. Go home? Pick up the medicine and vitamins Andrew told her to take? Call Blair and tell her won't be able to make it? Go to Dorothy's anyway? A few tears feel from her eyes. She hated how she was acting and how she wanted to act. She wasn't one to act like the world was ending in every situation. Blame it on her rough upbringing and thick Bronx skin. But, right now, she wanted to cry. She wanted her mother.
***

[RoryGilmore]

Aw poor Jo! Excellent post!

[ZeldaGilroy]

Great post Brandon. Poor Jo...osteoporosis can be a painful and debilitating disease. Every post-menopausal woman in my family has it. My grandmother refused treatment for it and spent the last years of her life stooped over and with several broken bones. :( Luckily, my mother and my aunts have responded well to treatment.

I can't wait to see what you come up with next. I hope you can post more soon.

[PlayOn]

I'm sorry to hear that, Billie. :( Horrible. I'm glad your other family members had responded well to treatments. :)
Btw I forgot to add something I got the information on osteo thanks to Google. They hooked me up with a bunch of links on the subject. And thanks to WebMD.
Now, new post for your reading pleasure. ;)

“Oh, you suck!”
“Me? You’re the one who’s lost 2 times in row!"
Natalie and Britney sat Dorothy’s living room, playing a racing game on a Wii Natalie bought for Britney last Christmas. Natalie went out to get some lunch for herself, Britney and Mrs. Garrett. While she was out, she swung by her house and picked up the game system so Britney wouldn’t be bored. Britney was kicking her mother’s butt. Suddenly, Nat’s blue care crashed against a brick wall. A graphic flashed on the screen, claiming the game was over. Britney dropped her controller and threw her hands up in victory.
“Yes!” she exclaimed. “The queen of Racer 2009 is Britney Davidson!”
“Boo!” Natalie jokingly jeered.
“Want to play again?”
“In a minute. I need to go check on your aunt Dorothy.”
“OK. I’ll set it up again.”
As Natalie looked back at her daughter restarting the game, a smile came to her face. This was the most well behaved she acted in a long time. Maybe she just needed somebody she could relate to. Sometimes, people need somebody who understand instead of scold them. Teenagers are no exception. She walked out of the living room to the foyer and up the flight of stairs.
***
“Brad.” Blair called as she walked in her house. “Brad.” No reply. Blair rolled her eyes and walked in the living room, over to the phone and saw she had one voice message. After she pushed the ’hear messages’ button, Brad’s voice came through the machine speakers:
“Hey, babe. It’s me. Tried to call your cell, but with everything going on with Dorothy, I didn’t want to tie it up in case something were to happen. Just calling to say I’ll be working late again. Don’t wait up. Love you. Bye.”
Blair rolled her eyes as she erased the message. How could Brad be working late again? She sat set her purse on the desk and sat on the couch. Her mind couldn’t help but think Brad was cheating on her, crazy as it may sound. The man worked at a bank. Most people at banks don’t work overtime. She understood the banks birthday was coming up in just a few days and much work had to be done planning the party, but how was Brad responsible for decorating and planning it. She was friends with the wives of Brad’s fellow workers and their husbands came home after work. Nine to five, like clock work. Blair wondered how she could prove her accusations, though. She would think it over with a little wine and a hot bath.
***
“OK, I’ll tell her,” Natalie heard her daughter say as she walked in the living room. “Alright. Love you, too. Bye.”
“Who was that?” asked Natalie as her daughter hung up her cell phone.
“Dad. He wanted to know if I was doing anything on Father’s Day. If not, he said he would pick me up and we’d do something. Go see a movie, whatever. Can I go?”
“If you want to.”
“I do. Thanks, Mom.”
“Welcome. Have you got the game set up?”
“Yep.”
“Great. I can’t wait to smoke you again,” Natalie smiled, as she sat down beside her daughter on the floor. Britney handed her mother her controller.
“Whatever.” Britney, then, fell silent. “Mom, do you care if I ask you something about you and dad?”
“What?”
“Why did you get divorced?”
Natalie didn’t know what to say. She knew this day would come; she just wasn’t expecting it to be this soon. Britney was only 14.
“Um…” Natalie began, heart beating like a drum. “We just didn’t get along, your dad and I.”
“Was it my fault?”
“Of course not, baby. I was still pregnant with you when we separated.
“That still doesn’t mean I wasn’t the cause for the problems.”
“I’m telling you, you weren’t. Like I said, me and dad just didn’t see eye to eye anymore. I was always working, as was he. We seldom saw each other. That was one of our many problems.”
“And the others?”
“Had noting to do with you. Now, start the game.”
Britney did as she was told. Natalie thought back to the problems her and Kyle faced. His alcohol problem was the main reason for their split. Natalie was tired of wondering where he was night after night and if he would make it home safely or not. At first it just started out when they were with friends. Then, it became more serious. Natalie would come home and find him past out drunk on the couch, beer bottles and cans all around him. She told him she would leave him if he didn’t stop. And she meant it. Then, she became pregnant with Britney. Kyle’s drinking didn’t stop. If anything, it became more excessive. Once, while drunk, he even hit Natalie. That was the last straw for her. She filed for divorce the next day. She couldn’t tell Britney these things. She wanted her daughter to have a close relationship with her dad. Besides, Kyle stopped drinking and straightened up. He was scheduled to marry the nurse he had at the rehab center in a few months. Britney seemed like to like her and vice versa.
Natalie came back to the present and focused on what she was doing: spending time with her daughter.
***

Hopefully, the next couple of posts will make up for this short one.

[ZeldaGilroy]

Excellent job Brandon. I feel bad for Nat that she had to endure so much from her ex-husband. I am glad she seems to be getting along better with Britney though. I'm also wondering if Blair's hubby is cheating. You have so much going on in this fic. I am hooked. Post again soon!

[Shine]

Brandon, I just got to reading this new story today and I really like it. I also think that it was nice of you to write a story for all the women out there who have ever given birth. And you're right, I don't think that any man could ever suffer through morning sickness, labor pains, ext. I know that I sure could not. :lol:

[RoryGilmore]

Excellent job Brandon cant wait for more :)

[PlayOn]

Thanks, guys. :) Hopefully, in this post, some of your wonders will be laid to rest. hehe. :D enjoy!

Jo sat the kitchen table, reading the label on the Boniva bottle. Sucks how the side effects of a medicine is more severe than that it cures, she thought to herself. She couldn’t believe it, but she smiled at that thought. Maybe she was being over dramatic, but she seriously thought she would never smile again.
The smile went away when she heard the front door open and close. A few minutes later, Jake walked in the kitchen, dressed in a suit.
“Hey, babe,” he smiled and kissed his wife.
“Hey. How did the interview go?”
“Great. The boss told me he would call me back and let me know either way.”
“Well, fingers crossed.”
“Double crossed. What would you like for supper?”
“First. I need to tell you something. You probably want to sit down for this.”
“Sounds serious.”
“It is,” Jo replied as her husband sat in the chair beside her. “I went to see Andrew today and told him about my bones giving me trouble. He said I have osteoporosis.”
“Are you serious?”
Jo nodded, tears welling up in her eyes.
“Well, are you going to be ok? Can it cured?”
“He said I should be ok and the only way it can be cured as of now is by taking this,” Jo handed Jake the Boniva bottle, he looked at it. “I also have some vitamins. They’re in my purse.”
Jake sat silent, reading the bottle. Finally, he looked up at his wife.
“What about work?”
“I’ll have to miss it until I get better.”
“Oh, gosh.”
“What?”
“What are we going to do about bills?”
***

Blair sat on the couch and flipped through the channels. Amazing, she thought. Almost 100 or more channels and nothing was on. She turned off the TV, and leaned her head back against the soft cushions of the couch. She, then, looked at her watch. 12:52. Although Brad told his wife not to wait up for him, she was going to anyway. One, to see what time he got home, and two, to ask him if he was cheating on her. He, of course, wouldn’t come out and say it, if he was, but Blair new body language. She studied (while she went to Langley College) to be a lawyer. They taught how to read body language a few times so the lawyers would know weather the person on the stand was lying or not. How they needed that for marriages. Blair hoped and prayed she could remember everything. She looked at her watch again. 12:53. Thank heaven Jo called her earlier and told her she was able to make it to Dorothy’s tonight, because this confrontation was much needed. Blair had a lot to get off of her chest. One thing did worry Blair, though. Jo sounded distraught over the phone. She asked how her appointment went and all Jo said was fine. Oh, well. If their was something wrong, Jo would tell Mrs. Garrett. They told Mrs. G everything.
Just then, the front door opened. Blair lifted her head up. Brad walked in the living room and over to the desk, not even seeing Blair. He took the contents out of his pocket and placed it on the desk and turned, almost jumping out of his skin at the sight of his wife on the couch.
“Blair,” he said. “You startled me. Did you get my message? I said you didn’t have to wait up.”
“I got it. But I wanted to. Brad, we have to talk.”
“Tomorrow, please. I’m exhausted.”
“No. Now. It won’t take long.”
“Alright,” Brad sighed heavily. He sat by his wife on the couch and looked at her. “What do you want to talk about?”
“Are you cheating on me?”
“What?! Blair, don’t be ridu…”
“Just answer the question! Are you cheating on me? Yes or no.”
“No. Alright? I’m not cheating on you. Where is this coming from? Have you been watching ‘Maury’ again?”
“No. I’ve been watching your attitude these last couple of days! You’re barely home.”
“And I explained that,” Brad replied, standing. Blair stood herself. “I’m trying to help out with the party the bank is throwing in a week in honor of the bank’s 5th birthday.”
“Are you the only one involved?”
“No.”
“That’s interesting. Because I talked to some of your coworkers wives. Their husbands come home every night. Want to explain that?”
“Gladly. Not everybody volunteered to be on the planning committee. Most, if not everybody, on that is a single.”
“Women?”
“Men and women. Blair, baby, you have noting to worry about. I didn’t marry anybody at the office. I’m not sleeping with anybody at the office. I’m married to you. I’m sleeping with you and you only. You believe me?”
Blair read is face and is body language. He was telling the truth. She felt horrible.
“Yea, I believe you.”
“Good.” Brad smiled and kissed his wife on the forehead.
“I’m sorry. You forgive me?”
“I will, if you let me go upstairs and get some sleep.”
“Will do,” Blair laughed.
Brad started to walk to their bedroom. But, he stopped and turned. “Would you like to join me?”
“Would I?” Blair smiled. She walked to her husband, who picked her up and continued walking.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Great post Brandon. I'm glad it seems like Brad isn't cheating. I also know it is going to be rough for Jo and Jake with no income. Can't wait to read more!

[Shine]

Keep up the great work, Brandon! :)

[RoryGilmore]

Hope everything works out for Jo and Jake

[PlayOn]

:D

Natalie opened the door and saw her ex-husband standing their. He looked different. The circles under his eyes were gone, the smell of alcohol wasn’t on his breath and is long rock star hair was neatly combed. He was even dressed normally. Although Natalie didn’t mind the holes in clothes look once in a while, every time was a bit much. Kyle wore holes every time they went out. He didn’t care where they were going. Once, Nat was going to cover the grand opening of a new bank, the one Blair’s husband, Brad, works at now, and they celebrated with an after party. Natalie was scheduled to cover it for the Peekskill Press. She wore a figure hugging, classic black dress studded with diamonds. Kyle wore jeans and a tee-shirt with holes in them both, much to her disliking. The Kyle standing before her now was the Kyle she fell in love with.
“Natalie,” he said. “You look great.”
“You, too. Would you like to come in?”
“For minute.”
Natalie stepped aside and let the man walk in her house. The house hadn’t changed much, if at all, since the divorce. But, Kyle stilled looked around to see if things had.
“Place still looks the same.” Kyle acknowledged.
“It is. Britney should be down in second. Would you like to sit down or anything to drink?”
“No, thanks. We really can’t stay long.”
“OK. So, what have you got planned?”
“Whatever Britney wants to do.”
“Well, I hope you have fun,” Then, Natalie thought of something she needed to tell him and hoped Britney wouldn‘t interrupt them before she could say it. “Kyle, could you do one thing for me?”
“Sure.”
“Britney has been asking questions about why we got divorced. Could you not give her too much information? I don’t want her thinking any less of you.”
“Why would she?”
“Because of you’re past alcohol problem.”
“Past alcohol problem. Past is the key word. And since I don’t have that problem anymore, why shouldn’t I tell her, if she were to ask? I don’t like keeping secrets from her.”
“I know. And you’re a good man for that. But, you know how kids are, especially teenagers. My biggest fear is that she won’t see you the same way she used to.”
“Thanks for your concern, but let me worry about it.”
Natalie started to say something, but…
“Hey, dad.” Britney said, as she walked in the room.
“Hey, princess! You ready?”
“Yea.”
“Good. Let’s go.”
“Be careful.” Natalie stated as father and daughter walked to the door.
“Will do.” Kyle replied as he opened the door.
“Bye, mom.” said Britney as she walked out of the house.
“Bye, sweetie. Have fun!”
Kyle followed his daughter, shutting the door behind him. Natalie sighed heavily and looked up to the ceiling.
***
Dorothy got out of bed, and walked to the dresser. After opening the bottom drawer, she pulled out a photo album and made her way back to the bed. As she flipped through the pictures, tears came to her eyes. This was Trey’s life, what was left of it. She smiled as she saw her husband on his first Christmas. The next was his first school picture. The next, him blowing out candles on his 13th birthday cake. Just then, Dorothy made up her mind. What was she doing, wasting her life up here in this bed? Literally, she was dieing. Trey wants you to live and be happy, a voice inside her said. It won’t be easy, but you have to do it.
“Mrs. Garrett!” Dorothy shouted, putting the photo album aside.
“Yes, dear?” asked Edna, walking in the room a few minutes after Dorothy called her. She had an apron on, seeing as how she was in the kitchen fixing lunch for both of them.
“Call the girls. I’m ready to plan Trey’s funeral.”
“Are you sure? The girls and I can do it alone.”
“No. As nice as that is of you guys, I want to be a part of it. I can’t hide from the fact that Trey’s gone forever.”
“I’m proud of you,” Edna smiled. “I’ll start making the calls now. When would like start the planning?”
“Whenever they can.”
After Edna walked out of the room, a smile came to Dorothy’s face. For the first since all this happened, she felt like she was going to be OK. I have to be, she thought, rubbing her belly. For both of us. Happy fathers day, Trey.
***
Happy dads day, all you dads in cyber world! :)

[ZeldaGilroy]

Great post Brandon!

[Shine]

Well done, Brandon. You are really good at writing Natalie and Tootie. :)

[RoryGilmore]

Excellent post Brandon!!!

[PlayOn]

Thanks, guys. :) I have a lot of stuff written, so I may post everyday.
Enjoy. :)

Edna picked up the phone and dialed Jo’s number. She was the first call because Edna needed to check on her. The day she came to stay Dorothy’s house, she acted funny, distraught. Edna asked if anything was wrong. Jo said their wasn’t. Hopefully, she’ll get it out of her. And if not, maybe Dorothy’s sudden zeal for life will make her feel a little better. It rang.
“Hello?” asked Jo, as she picked up the phone.
“Jo, it’s Mrs. Garrett. How are you?”
“Great, Mrs. G. How are you?”
“Good. I have some fantastic news. Dorothy wants all you girls to come over to help her plan Trey’s funeral.”
“Help her, as in she’s going to do it with us?”
“Yea. She just told me.”
“Wow,” Jo replied, shocked. “I’m surprised, but good for her.”
“I know. So, when can you do it?”
“How’s tonight?”
“Tonight?” Mrs. Garrett sounded surprised. “But I thought you might want to take Jake out to dinner for Father’s Day.”
“No. We thought we’d just stay in. I’m sure he won’t mind me leaving, though. That way, he can watch whatever he wants.” That was the truth. With Jo’s future needed trips to the hospital, her and Jake had to save every dime they could.
“Alright. Come on over. I’ve got to call the rest of the girls. See you about 7?”
“7 sounds great.”
“Alright. Bye.”
“Bye.”
***

Natalie and Blair had plans, but promised to make it the next night. Blair was going to take Brad out to dinner and Natalie had to work on a deadline for tomorrows paper. Plus, she had to be their when Britney got home. Mrs. Garrett asked them both if they noticed a change in Jo. They said yes, but Jo wouldn’t tell them what. Hopefully, Edna would find out tonight.
At a few minutes before seven, the door bell rang. Edna got up from the dining room table and opened it.
“Jo!” she said. “Come in.”
“Thanks.”
As Jo walked in Dorothy’s house, she saw her friend, sitting at the dining table, plate of food in front of her. They ran to each other and hugged.
“Thanks for coming.” Dorothy said, beginning to cry.
“You’re more than welcome. How are you?”
They broke the hug.
“Fine. I can’t wait to get this over with, though.”
“I bet.”
“How about you? How are you?”
“Never better.” Jo lied. What else could she do? Tell her friend she has a debilitating disease when they were about to plan for her deceased husbands funeral?
“Jo,” Edna said. “There’s plenty of food, if you’re hungry.”
“No, thanks. I ate at home.”
“Alright, then” Dorothy sighed heavily, dreading her next words. “Shall we get started?”
***
Jo stood at Dorothy’s kitchen sink, going through her purse. Where were those stupid things? She had forgotten to take her medicine today and while it was still on her mind, she wanted to. She would’ve taken them in the bathroom, but one was occupied by Dorothy and the other ,naturally, didn’t have a sink. It was a half bath. Just a toilet, washer and drier were in their. Ha-ha! Jo pulled out the Bovia and opened it.
“Jo,” Mrs. Garrett stated, walking in the kitchen, holding a magazine. “I was just wondering what you thought about this…”
Mrs. Garrett’s sudden appearance frightened Jo so much, Boniva tablets spilled all over the cream colored tile floor. Edna looked at them, then at Jo. Suddenly, it all became clear to her, as to why Jo was acting so funny lately.
“Jo.” Edna said, disbelief on her face and face.
“Mrs. G, it’s not what you think.”
“Then explain. Please explain why mysterious pills are all over the floor.”
Jo thought of something to say, a good excuse, but she couldn’t. She could think of many things to say; she just couldn’t lie to Mrs. Garrett. She sighed heavily.
“The doctor prescribed them to me. I have osteoporosis.”
***
“Thanks again for coming.” Dorothy said, as she hugged Jo.
“Anytime. Be excepting me tomorrow night.”
“Can’t wait.”
“I’ll walk you out.” Mrs. Garrett said to Jo.
They walked out on Dorothy’s porch. The only sound was the noises of the city: running cars, boom boxes and the neighbors talking a few houses down.
“Jo, why didn’t you tell me? You know you can tell me anything.”
“I know and I’m sorry. I just didn’t want to add this to everybody else’s life, what with Dorothy having to go through this and the stuff Blair and Nat are facing with their jobs and families.”
“That’s really sweet of you, but if you don’t speak out sometimes and tell people you have a problem, how will we know how to help in case you, heaven forbid, pass out in our homes or something?”
“I see what you’re saying, but please don’t tell the other girls. Especially Dorothy. She has enough to deal with.”
“I won’t tell Dorothy, but you have to tell them sometime. They’re your friends, Jo. They have a right to now what’s going on with you. They can also be your crutch when you need strength.”
“I guess you’re right. Thanks, Mrs. G.”
“You’re welcome, sweetie. You OK to drive home?”
“Yea. See you tomorrow.”
“Alright. Bye.”
“Bye.”
Edna watched as Jo walked to her car and climbed in it. She fought the tears as Jo started to back out of the drive way. How Edna hoped for things to be normal for Dorothy and Jo again. That was the only thing holding her together: hope.
***
Natalie opened the door on the first knock. Kyle and Britney were standing their.
“Hey,” she said, smiling. “Did you guys have fun.”
“The best!” Britney exclaimed, walking in the house. “Tell her about it, dad.”
“Why don’t you?”
“Because you tell stories so much better.”
“I’m not sure how to take that.”
Natalie and Britney laughed.
“Besides,” Kyle continued, looking at his watch. “It’s time for me to go. I’ll see you soon, princess.”
“Alright, daddy.”
Britney kissed her dad. Kyle hugged his daughter. How Natalie waited to see this sight. Too bad it wasn't under better conditions, but sweet nonethless.
“So, tell me everything.” Natalie said after Kyle left. She sat on the couch. Britney joined her.
“It was fun. First we went out to eat, then to a movie. After that, we went shopping. I told him I had to go to the bathroom, but instead went to buy him something in Best Buy.”
“What did you get?”
“A Blu-Ray player.”
“With what money?” asked Natalie, eyes wide.
“I saved up my allowance.”
“Well, I’m glad you had fun. You should go out with your dad more often.”
“He said the same thing. He also talked about me and Lucy spending the day together.”
“That sounds like fun.”
Lucy was Kyle’s fiancé. Although Natalie has never met her, Britney talked about her from time to time. She thought the world of her. Strangely, Natalie wondered if Lucy was a redhead, like her favorite comedian, Lucille Ball.
“Well, I’m going to bed. Am I still going to school tomorrow?”
“Yes.”
Natalie thought Britney was well behaved enough to go back to Eastland. Ever since her stay with Jo the night she stayed with Dorothy, it’s like Britney was a new person. Hopefully, she would act like this sweet little angel in school. After kissing her daughter goodnight, Natalie went back to working on the article for tomorrows paper.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Another great post Brandon! I'm excited you may be posting everyday...I love this fic!

[RoryGilmore]

Glad Jo finally had to tell someone about the osteoporosis and I'm glad it was Mrs. G. Also I'm glad you may be posting everyday, that's exciting :)

[Shine]

I think this last post was your best yet, Brandon. :)

[PlayOn]

Thanks. :) I hope these posts live up to your expectations .
Mike: Have you seen Martina's video for' I just call you mine'?

The next day, Blair opened her eyes, nearly closing them again, thanks to the bright morning light that shown through the open drapes. Normally, they would close them before going to bed, but last night, they forgot all about it. She looked at her husband and smiled. What a wonderful man, she thought. How could I ever think he was cheating on me? As quietly as she could, Blair tried to get out bed, without disturbing Brad. Not so lucky. She was so focused on him, she didn’t see her vanity table close by against a wall and knocked into it, lightly shaking everything on it. Brad opened his eyes and looked at wife.
“What’s going on?” he asked, stretching.
“Nothing. I just hit my vanity table.”
“Find a gray hair, did ya?”
“Very funny. No. It was an accident.”
Brad smiled.
“Why don’t you come back to bed? I don’t have to be until late.”
“Really? Why didn’t you tell me that last night?”
“I was just too exhausted. Leslie, the woman in charge of the banquet, noticed I looked tired and demanded I take some time off. Seeing as how the party is tomorrow, I refused. She told me to come in late.”
“Well, I would if I could but I have a lot to do today. I have an appointment at the beauty salon at 12. Then, tonight, all of us are going to Dorothy’s. Mrs. Garrett called each of us yesterday and said Dorothy wanted to plan Trey’s funeral with us.”
“Really? Wow.”
“I know. I feel so bad for her. I hope she handles it ok.”
“Why don’t you invite all the girls to the banquet?”
“Ok. Will do. Thanks.” Blair smiled and looked at her watch. “Oh, crap! It’s 10 o’clock. I have to get ready.” She walked to the bed, leaned down and kissed her husband. Without warning, Brad grabbed her by the waist and pulled her on the bed with him. “Brad! Let me go. I have to get ready!”
Brad laid a big, long kiss on her lips. After what seemed like an eternity, he broke it and stared into her eyes, smiling.
“Well, it is still early” Blair replied, smiling.
Brad smiled back and went back to passionately kissing her.
***
Jo woke up to the most annoying sound any person would not want to hear: the sound of a ringing phone. Groaning, she sat up and picked up the cordless that was laying on her bedside table.
“Hello?” she asked, sleepily.
“Is Mr. Covington their?” a male voice asked.
“Yea. Just a second.”
Jo turned to Jake and shook him, calling his name until he opened his eyes.
“What is it?” he asked, half asleep.
“The phone. Some man.”
“Alright,” Jake sat up and Jo handed him the phone. “Hello?”
“Mr. Covington?”
“Yea.”
“Mr. Covington, this Ryan Frost.”
“Of Frost Industries?” Jake’s heavy eyes, then, opened wide.
“Yes. I hope I’m not disturbing you.”
“By no means. How can I you?”
“I’m calling about your interview yesterday.”
“Yes?”
“And we like you. I was very impressed by your speaking ability. And most people your age don’t seem to care. They do this job for the money. You seem to want to be apart of the Frost family.”
“Well, I do. I love your company. It’s very family friendly and the charities you guys sponsor are amazing.”
“Well, thank you. Anyways, I’m just calling to say we would like to hire you.”
“Really?!” Jake nearly shouted.
“What?” asked Jo, curious as to why her husband now looked like he could conquer the world.
“Oh, thank you so much. When can I start?”
“How does tomorrow sound?”
“Great!”
“Terrific! Come in no later than 8 o’clock.”
“Well do. Thanks again!”
“You’re welcome. Enjoy your day.”
“You, too. Bye.”
“Bye.”
“What?!” Jo asked again, excitedly, after Jake turned off the phone.
“You know that job interview I went in for a few days ago?”
“Yea.”
“That was the boss. I got the job!”
“That’s great!” Jo shouted. She, then, kissed her husband.
“I have to be their at 8 o’clock tomorrow.”
“All that praying worked.”
“Yea.” Just then, a realization came to him. “How did you know I prayed. I did it in the living room while you were asleep.”
“Sometimes, I was and sometimes I wasn’t. When I wasn’t, followed you quietly to see what you were doing. Before you could see me, I would sneak back in here and say a prayer of my own.”
“I love you.”
“I love you, too.”
Jake and Jo leaned closer to each other and kissed. They laid down together, still kissing.
***
Natalie pulled up to the Eastland School for Girls and shut off the engine, turning to her daughter.
“Now,” she said, a serious look on her face. “Are you going to behave?”
“Yes, ma’am?”
“Do you promise? I have a lot to do today and I don’t have time to be coming here simply because you’re acting out.”
“I’ll be good.”
“Alright. I’m holding you to that. Now, Mrs. Warner isn’t here. I talked to her earlier and she’s taking a personal day. So it’s going to Mrs. Parker, Mr. Parkers wife.”
“OK.”
Suddenly, the bell signaling it was time to start the day rang. Britney hugged her mother tightly.
“I love you.” Britney said.
“And I love you.”
They broke the hug and Britney reached in the back seat for her book bag and opened the car door. Natalie watched as her daughter made her way to the Eastland doors and she hoped and prayed she wouldn’t have to make another trip here in the next few hours.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Excellent post Brandon! :)

[RoryGilmore]

Good post Brandon!

[PlayOn]

Thanks. :) Here's more. Enjoy.

Jo opened the vitamin tablets in her mouth and washed it down with water. Making her way to the living room, she stopped short. Suddenly, she became dizzy and felt like she was going to be sick. Feeling her way around for a chair, she sat in it.
“You ok?” asked Jake, as he walked in the kitchen and noticed the strange look on his wife’s face.
“Yea. Just a side effect of the Boniva. Nausea.”
“You want anything? Water?”
“No. It’ll pass.”
Jake hated to see his wife go through these spells. The first was the day before yesterday. He was scheduled to go to an interview, but something inside him told him to stay home. He didn’t understand it, but did. A few minutes later, as Jo took a shower and Jake was watching football, a loud thud came from the bathroom. Jake went to investigate. The noise was the result of Jo falling in the bathtub, thanks to a nausea and dizzy spell. She said she tired to reach for something to hold her steady, but it was too late. Afraid of having any broken bones, Jake rushed her to the hospital. Everything was fine, much to the couple’s relief.
“Alright,” Jo said. “I’m fine now.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yea.”
Just then, the phone rang.
“Hello?” Jake said into the mouth piece.
“Jake,” said a familiar voice. “This is Edna Garrett. How are you?”
“I’m fine, Mrs. Garrett and yourself.”
“I’m fine, thank you. Can I speak to Jo for a second?”
“Hold on,” Jake replied and took the phone away from his ear, covering the mouth piece. “Do you feel up to talking to Mrs. Garrett?”
“Yea.”
“Alright, Mrs. G.” Jake said back into the phone. “Here she is.”
“Alright. Nice talking to you.”
“You, too.” Jake, then, handed the phone to his wife.
“Hey, Mrs. G.” Jo said, trying to sound like she didn’t have a care in world.
“Hey. I was just calling to ask if you were feeling ok.”
“Yea. I was actually just about to go to the store. Is their anything bring tonight?”
“Not unless you want to. I just got back from the store.”
“Alright. Have you talked to any of the other girls?”
“Not since last night.”
They carried on a casual conversation for about 5 minutes. But Edna, as bad she hated to, hung up to put something in oven. Jo knew why Edna called and she loved her for it. But, at the same time, she wished Edna wasn’t so worried about her. But she guessed that was like asking bear not to be bear. Edna worried about all her girls, through the good and bad.
“What time do you have to be at Dorothy’s tonight?” asked Jake, as he buttered both sides of a slice of bread to make a grilled cheese sandwich.
“Seven.”
“You want a ride?”
“No. I can manage. Besides, I don’t how long we’re going to be their and you have to be up early tomorrow.”
“Alright. But, no matter what time it is, don’t hesitate to call or ask one of the girls to give you a ride if you feel like you‘re going to be sick.”
“Will do.” Jo replied and looked at her watch. “I better be grabbing a quick shower.”
***
Natalie sat in her little cubical at The Peekskill Press, reading through a rough draft of the next days article. She realized that so far, she hadn’t from Eastland. That was a good sign. But, for safe measure, she knocked on her wooden desk.
Just then, her cell phone rang, making Natalie jump out of her skin. She looked around to see if anyone had seen. No.
“Peekskill Press. This is Natalie Green.”
“Natalie, come to my office as soon you can.”
“On my way, Mrs. Sanchez.”
Mrs. Sanchez was the editor in chief of the paper. A nice woman, but she could get riled. Natalie liked that about her. She had the personality of Jo.
“You wanted to see me, ma’am?” she asked as she walked in her bosses office.
“Yes,” Mrs. Sanchez replied in her thick Hispanic accent. “I need to stay a few minutes over time today.”
“May I ask why?”
“Why, so you could start on your own column.”
“Beg pardon?”
“I’ve been thinking about this for a while now,” Mrs. Sanchez explained. “You’re a good, hard worker. I loved your article we published in today’s paper. And it made me make up my mind. I want you to have your own column in The Peekskill Press. Everyday. And it’ll be your thoughts and views. Not just a story.”
“Well, I thank you very much, but does it have to start in tomorrow’s paper? I have a previous engagement tonight. Some of my friends and I are helping in planning a funeral. One of their husbands died a few days ago.”
“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that. I guess the column can hold off for a few more days, but be sure it’s not too long.”
“Yes, ma’am. And thank you.”
“You’re welcome. You deserve.”
Natalie walked out of the office, smiling ear to ear. She always knew she liked Mrs. Sanchez.
***
Jo sat in her car in front of Dorothy’s house, trying to figure out how she would break the news easy to the girls she had osteoporosis. Nothing. You can’t always sugar coat the bad news, sadly.
Well, Jo said to herself, looking at Dorothy’s house. All the girls’ cars are parked here. Here goes nothing.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Good post Brandon. I feel bad for Jo.

[PlayOn]

Thanks. :) Before I post, I would like to send some prayers to the families of Farrah Fawcette (sp?) and Micheal Jackson. Both are great entertainers who will be greatly missed. :rip:
Enjoy. :)

Loud talking hit Jo in the face as she walked in. Dorothy was the first to see her.
“Here she is!” Dorothy acknowledged, walking from Blair and over to Jo. They hugged. “Good to see you again.”
“You, too. Have you started yet?”
“Nope,” Blair replied. “Waiting for you.”
“I’ll go get what we did last night,” Edna said, walking up the stairs.
“Are you sure you can go through with this?” Jo asked Dorothy, a concerned look on her face.
“I have to.” replied Dorothy. “I have to face facts. Besides, you were here last night and I handled it well, didn’t I? I didn’t have an emotional breakdown.”
“No. But still, anything could happen.”
“Well, thanks. But I’m fine.”
“So, when are you going to figure out what you’re going to have?” asked Natalie, walking over to Jo and Dorothy.
“No idea,” Dorothy replied. “I can’t to find out, though.”
“What do you want to have?”
“A girl. I have names picked out. If it’s a girl, Keisha. A boy will be Trey, Jr.”
“That’s really sweet.” Jo replied, a warm look on her face.
“Thanks.”
“Found it!” Edna stated, coming back down the stairs. She was holding a black notebook with magazines stuffed inside of it. “This is what Dorothy, Jo and I did last night.”
All of the girls walked to her and looked at it as she sat it on the coffee table. “So far, all we have is the flowers and the cemetery. We need to pick out the casket, set a date…”
“Have you called his parents?” asked Natalie.
“Yes. They got here the day after trey died. They’re staying at hotel. I offered them the guest room, but they didn’t want an intrusion.” Dorothy explained. “They flew in from Texas, where Trey’s from.”
“Are we going to have the funeral in Texas?” asked Blair.
“Yes,” replied Edna. “Trey’s grandparents are buried their. So, make sure you ask for the 23rd of this month off.”
Suddenly, Jo started to feel the room spinning again. Please, God. She prayed silently to herself. Not now. Thankfully, she was sitting down. The spinning stopped. By the time she came back to the conversation, the discussion about last night was over. The girls had moved on to what they didn’t talk about last night.
***
“And, lastly, we thank You for our food,” Edna said, head bowed and eyes closed. “Amen.”
“Amen.”
Everybody raised their head and began eating.
“Everybody,” Natalie said, smiling. “I have some good news. Today, I found out I get to have my own column in the paper.”
The room burst with congratulations.
“When will it start?” asked Dorothy.
“The day after tomorrow. Mrs. Sanchez wanted me to stay at the office tonight to write it so it could be in the tomorrow’s paper. But I told her I had to be here. She understood.”
“Well, congratulations, Nat.” Edna replied.
“Yea.” Blair said. “Can’t wait to read it.
“Thanks.”
Natalie’s news made Jo wonder when she should tell her own now. Or later. Playing with her food with her fork, she looked at Edna, who nodded. Jo sighed. Better get it over with.
“I have some news of my own.” she said. “I wish it was as good at Natalie’s.”
“What is it?” asked Blair, a worried looked in her voice.
“As you know, I went to the doctor and he said…” Jo paused as tears filled her eyes. “I have osteoporosis.”
Silence filled the room. Tears feel from Jo’s eyes.
“But,” Edna broke the silence. “She’s going to be ok. The doctor gave medicine and vitamins. And since they caught it early, nothing’s going to happen to her. Right, Jo?”
“Right. That’s what I keep telling myself anyway.”
“It’s true.”
Nobody knew what to say. Jo had to say something.
“Dorothy, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you last night. It’s just you have so much on your plate already, I didn’t want to add this to it.”
“Don’t even worry about it.” Dorothy replied, tears in her eyes and a smile on her face. By now, all the girls had tears running down their face.
***

[RoryGilmore]

Excellent posts Brandon.


I'm still in shock, I cannot believe that Michael Jackson's dead!!!! Fawcett we all knew was coming but its still incredibly sad.

[ZeldaGilroy]

Excellent posts Brandon.


I'm still in shock, I cannot believe that Michael Jackson's dead!!!! Fawcett we all knew was coming but its still incredibly sad.

I agree! Excellent post. Shocking about Michael Jackson. Very sad about Farrah. It has been a strange day.

[PlayOn]

I know. Farrah's was coming, but sad nonetheless. Micheal's was utter shock! Sad watching the news show footage when he and his family were just starting out. And now, rumor has it, Jeff Goldbloom has passed. Is it something in the water?
Anyways, more tomorrow. :)

[PlayOn]

As promised. Happy reading. :)

A few days later, the girls found themselves on Blair and Brads private plane, headed for Waco, Texas. Trey’s parents, Sharon and Keith, left the day before, hoping to get their home cleaned up for their arrival. Dorothy was going to stay with them, while the others were going to stay at a Motel 8, much to their insistence so as to not put them out.
“Wow,” Dorothy said, setting a class of water on the tray in front of her. “This is very classy. Thanks.”
“I know.” Blair failed to act modest. She did, though, decided to pamper everybody.
“Excuse me, miss?” Natalie said as a stewardess walked by. The flight attendant stopped and looked at her. “May I have some more peanuts?”
“Nat, you’d better stop eating so much of those things,” Blair acknowledged. “Dinner will be served in an hour.”
“I’m just testing them.”
“One bag is testing them. 5 bags is chow time.”
“It takes a while to see if I like something, ok?”
“Don’t bring her anymore, please.” Blair said to the stewardess. As the flight attendant walked away, Natalie gave Blair a deathly stare.
“Thanks, Blair.”
“Trust me. Once you see what Pablo cooks up, you’ll thank me.”
“Pablo?” asked Jo. “You have your own cook?”
“Yes.” replied Brad, who was sitting right next to Blair replied. “We flew to Paris for our honeymoon on American Airlines and Pablo was the chef. He is a fantastic chef. He makes this chocolate thing that came from his hometown in Paris for desert that’s to die for.”
“I’m going to die if I don’t eat something soon.” replied Natalie.
“What’s a hotshot like Pablo cooking on a plan?” Jo wondered. “Shouldn’t he have his own restaurant or something?”
“He did,” Blair answered. “But he got bankrupt, thanks to this economy. People, even some rich, don’t have the time or money to eat out. He didn’t like the creative boundaries American Airlines gave him, so I hired him to cook meals on here. I pay him, if we don’t fly for months.”
“That’s really sweet of you, Blair.” Mrs. Garrett said.
“I know.” Blair, again, failed to be modest.
“Oh, congrats, Jake on getting a job.” Dorothy acknowledged to the man behind her and Mrs. Garrett.
“Thanks. I hate that I had to take some personal time off this early, but the boss understood.”
“I propose a toast,” said Blair, holing up a wine glass. The others did the same. “To our futures. May they be as bright as the sun.”
“Here here.”
***
“Whoa!” was the reaction on everybody’s face as they walked in Mr. and Mrs. Wilson’s house. The foyer was huge. A big chandelier hung in the middle of the ceiling, with real, white candles burning.
“I do believe I’m jealous,” said Blair as she looked around in amazement.
“Thank you.” replied a redheaded woman. The woman was Sharon, Trey’s mother. “Feel free to look around. I have supper on the stove.”
“Toto, we are definitely not in Kansas anymore.” Natalie said whomever was listening.
“Would you like for me to show you around?” asked Keith, who was Trey’s father.
Sure was the answer.
“I’ll help Sharon with supper.” Dorothy said. She has already seen the house before. They stayed here during the Christmas holidays, when Trey first brought Dorothy to meet his parents. They loved her and she loved them.
***
“Anything I can do?” asked Dorothy as she walked in the kitchen. Sharon was putting taking something out of the oven.
“Oh, no. Thanks, but I got it. It’s almost done anyway.”
Silence filled the room, each wondering if they should mention the ‘T’ word.
“How’s the baby?” asked Sharon.
“Great. I’m going for a checkup a few days after we get back from Peekskill.”
“Is that when you find out the gender?”
“I hope so. The suspense is killing me.”
Dorothy and Sharon chuckled.
“Call me whenever you do find out.” Sharon stated.
“Already was. Did you ever find out what Trey was?”
“No. I wanted to be surprised. Besides, back then technology wasn’t as advanced as it is now. I didn’t trust machines.”
Awkward silence.
“How have you been holding up?” asked Sharon, looking at her daughter in law.
“Good. You?”
“I have my days.”
“Same here. Some days I miss him like crazy, but I’m happy. Others, I miss him and I want to cry my eyes out.”
“Dido.”
“If it hadn’t been for my friends, I would’ve lost my mind.”
“Yep. Friends are the best thing you can have.”
“Amen.”
“I’m so glad to see you.” Sharon said as she walked to Dorothy and hugged her. Dorothy hugged back.
***

[RoryGilmore]

Excellent post, Brandon

[ZeldaGilroy]

Great job Brandon!

[Shine]

Great posts, Brandon! :)

[PlayOn]

Thanks. :) This post is one of my favorites. I'm using the chorus of Carrie Underwood's song, 'Just A Dream' toward the end of it. If you like it, you can find it on her CD 'Carnival Ride' in stores now.
Enjoy. :)

After supper, the girls left. Dorothy now sat alone in her room, unpacking her suitcase. Suddenly, there came a knock on the door.
“Come in,” she said, putting some shorts in a drawer.
“You ok?” Sharon as she opened the door.
“Yes, ma’am. Almost done unpacking.
“Well, make yourself at home. Keith and I are about to go to bed.”
“Good night.”
Sharon smiled. Suddenly, her eyes caught a picture on Dorothy’s bedside table. It was Trey in his firemen’s uniform. She had the same picture only it on the mantel in the living room. Sharon walked to it and picked it up, stroking the glass covering, tears feel from her eyes. Dorothy noticed this and dropped went over to her.
“I’m sorry.” she said. “I shouldn’t have brought it. I’ll put it back in my suitcase.”
“No” Sharon protested as Dorothy tried to take the picture from her. “I’m glad you have it. You don’t ever have to be sorry for showing this off. It’s just hard, you know? It hard not to look at this and not get emotional. He was so young.”
The tears fell harder from the woman’s face as she gently rubbed her sons picture face. Dorothy was starting to cry herself. Tomorrow was going to be a long day.
***
Dorothy stood in mirror, dressed in her funeral dress. She had held this off all day, trying to find little things to do around the house. Finally, she decided it was time for her to take a shower and get ready. She sighed heavily. She knew this day would come, just not this soon.
A knock sounded on her door.
“Come in.” Dorothy said.
Mrs. Garrett and other girls walked in the room, ready for the funeral.
“You look great.” Mrs. Garrett acknowledged.
“Thanks. So do you guys. Blair, I love that necklace.”
“Thanks. I love yours, too. You ok?”
“Yea. I guess so. I want it to be over with, though.”
“It will be.” Mrs. Garrett stated. “May not be as soon as we like, but it will be.”
“Do you need anything?” Natalie offered.
“No, thanks. I’m ok.”
“Girls, go downstairs please.” said Mrs. Garrett. “I need to talk to Dorothy alone.”
After they left, she and Dorothy sat on the bed, each with tears in their eyes.
“You’ve had to grow up so fast these last couple of days. I’ve witnessed it and it broke my heart. Nobody should have to bury a husband this early.
“OK, Mrs. Garrett. Thanks, but does this have a point? I need to reapply my makeup already.” Dorothy gave a little laugh.
“Sorry, well. I’m just saying, although it’s hard now, please remember, what we face in this life, good and bad make us stronger. It may not seem like it now, but it does. Keep that in your head and heart.”
“I love you, Mrs. Garrett.
“I love you, too.”
The women both hugged each other.
***

Dorothy stared at the casket that held her husband, not listening to what the preacher was saying. It’s not that she didn’t care. Her mind was just on other things: her and Trey’s first kiss; their wedding day and night.

'Baby, why’d you leave me? Why’d you have to go? I was counting on forever, now I’ll never know. I can’t even breathe.'

For some reason, Dorothy caught herself slowly looking around at everybody else. A few of her friends’ eyes were on her. When Dorothy would see them, she would turn her head back to the front of the church. She tried to listen to the preacher, but couldn’t. Her eyes were back on Trey.

'It’s like I’m looking from a distance, standing in the background. Everybody’s saying ‘he’s not coming home now.’ This can’t be happening to me. This is just a dream.'


Dorothy, now, found herself, thinking about the future: her kids and his or her life. What they be like? Would they use their life to help or to hurt themselves and others? Funny, she thought, that sometimes at a funeral, people think about life. Move on with your LIFE; live LIFE to the fullest because you can’t get a second of it back. Life is a powerful word. And, when she wanted to cry then, she thought about an even more powerful word: love. For some reason, the tears didn’t come as fast now. Dorothy softly rubbed her belly.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

That was beautifully written Brandon. I was teary-eyed reading it. Excellent post!

[PlayOn]

Thanks. :) Enjoy this one.


“Excuse me.” A male voice said as he stood over Mrs. Garrett. A smaller shadow was beside him. “Can you tell me where I can the museum?”
“Bruce!” Edna exclaimed happily as she looked up from her plate. Bruce and a black boy were standing beside her. She stood and hugged each of them.
“Sorry we’re so late,” Bruce explained. “The plane ran into a storm, so we had to land.”
“You mean you don’t have a private jet like me?”
“Sorry, Blair,” Edna replied, sarcastically. “It was in the shop.” She turned back to her husband and child. “Don’t worry about it. The important thing is you’re here.”
“How’s Dorothy?”
“Surprisingly well. She made it through the funeral alright.”
“The real test is tomorrow.” Jo stated before eating a bite of salad. “The burial.”
“Oh, yes.” Edna continued. “She needs all the prayers she can get tonight. I wonder where she is anyway.”
“There she is!” Leroy exclaimed as she saw Dorothy walking to them from behind Edna. Mrs. Garrett turned.
“Dorothy, you ok?” she asked, a worried look on her face.
“Yes. I was just talking with some of Trey’s friends from high school.”
“Have you had anything to eat?”
“No. I’m not hungry. Maybe later.”
It was after the funeral and all the guests were eating at the Wilson’s house, what was left of them anyway. Some had gone home or to carry out the rest of their days plans.
Jo started to say something to Dorothy, but…
“Hey,” an older man said, walking to Dorothy, hand extended. “You’re Dorothy, Trey’s wife?”
“Yes, sir.”
“I was Trey’s English teacher. So sorry for what happened.”
“Thank you.” They shook hands. “So, we was a firefighter?”
“Yes, sir. He passed while saving somebody’s life.”
“So sorry, again.”
“Thank you.”
“Trey was always a people person. He loved helping others out, no matter what it costs him. You’re husband was a good man.”
“I know." Dorothy smiled, trying really hard not to cry.
After the man walked away, she couldn’t take it anymore. She let the tears flow.
“Dorothy, honey?” Mrs. Garrett put her on Dorothy’s shoulders from behind her. “You ok?”
“I wish everybody would stop asking me that! Yes! I’m ok! Ok?! I just want today, tomorrow and the rest of my life to be over with!”
She walked out of the room and went to the bathroom, locking the door. Looking at herself in the mirror, Dorothy cried even harder. She looked good and well rested, but on the inside she was tired and drained. She knew this day would come, she just didn’t know it would be this hard. Matter of fact, Dorothy didn’t think any amount of positive thinking would make the hurt go away. Tomorrow, she knew, though, she was going to hurt even more.
***
“Think I should go after her?” asked Edna.
“No.” said Bruce, tears of his own in his eyes. “She needs to be by herself for a while. Think things out.”
“The girl said couldn’t wait until the rest of her life to be over with. What if she does something stupid? I’m going.”
***
“Dorothy?” said a familiar voice on the other side of the locked bathroom door. “It’s Mrs. Garrett. Are you alright?”
“Yes, Mrs. Garrett. I just want to be left alone.”
“Are you sure? We can talk.”
“Maybe I come out. Just, please, go away.”
“Alright. I’ll be quiet, but I’m not leaving. I don’t care if people think I am crazy. I’ll eat right outside this door.”
Dorothy laughed under her breath and looked at herself in the mirror again.
Wilson, she told herself. If you stay in here all night, you’re going right back where you started after Trey… passed: locked in you bedroom, crying your eyes out and locking your feelings inside. That is unhealthy for you and, importantly, the baby.
With all she muster, Dorothy unlocked the door and opened it. Sure enough, Mrs. G was standing right beside it. She hugged Dorothy. Each started crying.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Aaawww...poor Tootie. I am crying now. :( So sad.

[Shine]

Some really moving posts, Brandon. Well done. :) To quote Billie, "Poor Tootie". :(

[RoryGilmore]

Okay I'm on the verge of tears, so I think you did your job.


Excellent post cant wait to see what you have in store for us next.

[PlayOn]

Thanks. If you want a spoiler (read over this if you don't want to be spoiled) :I have more drama in stored. I can't write a a dramady. It's either drama or comedy. lol. Anyway, enjoy it. :)

Everybody stared at the closed casket while the preacher spoke from the Bible. Mrs. Garrett was standing beside Dorothy and as the events unfolded before their eyes, she put her arm around the youngest girl she looked after at Eastland.
Tears came to Edna’s eyes as she thought back to Dorothy and Trey’s wedding. How happy they were. Didn’t have a care in the world. Even on the wedding day, where it seemed like everything went wrong, didn’t. It was perfect. Dorothy even remained calm and didn’t seem to have cold feet, like a few brides Edna knew in her lifetime.
For some reason, Mrs. Garrett caught herself looking beside at her husband. Bruce. What a good man. Strong. Edna couldn’t imagine her life without him. Then, she looked at Leroy, the boy the adopted because they wanted a child, but were too old. Adoption was their only choice of having a child. When they saw Leroy, they didn’t see color. They saw a human. He was the first to notice them walk in the kids’ playroom. Getting up from his game of checkers with another boy, he walked to them, extended his hand and said, “hello. My name is Leroy.” Bruce and Edna feel in love instantly and within seconds, knew he was the child they wanted. That was 5 years ago. All the girls had seen and met him. Every Christmas, Edna, Leroy and Bruce would fly to Peekskill and stay at somebody’s house or a hotel until the holidays were over. Thanksgiving was time to spend with Bruce’s family. They liked Leroy, too.
Edna, now, looked back at Dorothy then at the event before them. The preacher was preaching a psalm.
Dorothy couldn’t take it anymore. She wanted this to be over with. But she couldn’t walk away. Mrs. Garrett would only follow her and ask her if she was ok. How sick she was of being asked that!
Then, the preacher closed the Bible and bowed his head. Everyone did as well. Even Dorothy, though she said her own silent prayer: Lord, let me get through this.
***
“Are you going to be ok?”
“Yes.”
“Alright. If you need anything call.”
“What can you do while I’m in Texas and you’re in Peekskill.”
“Talk. Listen.”
Dorothy smiled and hugged Edna. Her, Bruce, Leroy and the girls were flying back to New York and from New York Edn, Leroy and Bruce would catch a plan to Wisconsin, while Dorothy was going to stay in Texas for a few more days. Maybe she could help Sharon clean up the mess that was still in the kitchen from last night’s after funeral affair. And, maybe they could help each other cope. Dorothy, then, hugged her friends, all of which offered her words of comfort and love.
“You need any help?” she asked Sharon after everybody left.
“No, thanks. I’m not even going to worry about this. Maybe tomorrow. Today has been draining on so many levels.”
“Amen. If I hear one more ‘are you ok?’ I’m going to loose it.”
“You, too?”
“Well, ladies,” Keith said as he walked in the kitchen. “What would you like for supper?”
“Food is the farthest thing from my mind.” stated Dorothy.
“Mine, too.” Sharon agreed.
“Well, not mine. I’m going heat up something from last night.”
“Help yourself.” said Sharon. “The fridge is full with stuff everybody brought. I’m going to the living room.”
“Dorothy,” Keith began, taking some macaroni out of a green glass bowl. “Are you sure you’re not hungry? I don’t heating you up a plate.”
“Thanks, but I’m sure. I’m going to my room. Excuse me.”
***
Dorothy sat alone in the bedroom. Silence. Everything was over. The reading of Trey’s will was done after the visitation. Dorothy got his life savings so she could take care of their future baby. She didn’t feel like reading or watching TV with Sharon. Nothing to do but think about the baby. She was happy about that. Better than thinking about Trey and what could’ve been.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

You have more drama in store for us? This is an excellent story, I can't wait for the next part even if I will end up crying through it. ;)

[PlayOn]

I warned ya. lol. Naw, this part isn't that bad. I've posted worse. Enjoy. :)

Britney walked in the lounge and picked up the phone.
“Hello?” she said. “Mom.”
“No.” said a male’s voice. “It’s me.”
“Oh. Travis. How are you?”
“Great. Miss you.”
“Trav, my mom said I couldn’t see you again.”
“Your mom? I thought you didn’t care what she thought about us.”
“And I don‘t. But, her friend and my aunt, Jo, really put our relationship in perspective. I told her everything you did. And…”
“Wait!” Travis interrupted. “You told her I deal drugs?
“Yes. She asked. And I don’t like lying. Especially to family.”
“You bit…”
“Now, you hold on. Don’t talk to me like that!”
“You promised you wouldn’t tell anybody.”
“If you’d just let me explain.”
“No. Boy, you’re a little hypocrite. You say you don’t like lying, yet you broke our promise, saying you wouldn’t tell anybody what I did. You’re such a….”
“Travis, shut up and let me speak.”
But too late. Travis had already hung up. After putting the phone back on the hook, Britney walked out of room, when she bumped into her friend, Monica Wells, who was a beautiful Mexican mixed with white.
“Sorry,” Britney apologized.
“It’s cool. Who was on the phone.”
“Travis. I told him my mom said she didn’t me to see him again.”
“Didn’t guess he didn’t handle it very well.”
“Understatement.”
“Oh, well. There are plenty other fish in the sea.”
“Thanks. Hey, I’m having trouble with my English homework and seeing as how you have straight A’s…”
“Sure I’ll help.”
“Great. Lets get started.”
***
“Thank goodness we’re home!” Brad exclaimed as the Warner-Warner’s walked into their luxurious home. He sat both his and Blair’s bags down.
“Amen. I’m going to take a hot bath.”
“Alright. I’m going to fix something to eat. Want anything?”
“No thanks. I ate too much after the funeral. Not to mention 2 bags of peanuts on the plane.”
“OK. Enjoy yourself.”
“I plan to.”
***
“Hello?” Dorothy said after put her cell phone to her ear.
“Dorothy, it’s Edna. How are you?”
“I’m fine. How about you?”
“Good. I’m doing good. Listen, Bruce came up with an idea to maybe make motherhood easier.”
“Alright. What is it?”
“After things calm down, would you like to watch Leroy for a few days, just to get some practice in?”
“I’d love to. Thanks for asking.”
“No problem. Are you sure everything’s alright.”
“Yea. I’m actually craving something to eat.”
“Get used to that.” Edna laughed.
“Yea. It’s too bad, though. After the baby is born, I won’t have an excuse.”
Edna laughed. She liked hearing Dorothy crack jokes. It was better than the alternative.
“Well,” Dorothy continued. “I have to go. I’ll call you whenever I can baby sit Leroy.”
“Alright. I’ll keep my phone beside me.”
“You do that. Bye.
“Bye, sweetie.”
After they hung up, Edna felt good for the first time since this whole thing happened. She hoped Dorothy did, too.
***
Natalie stared at the blank piece of paper, wondering what her next column should be about? The President? His dog? Life? Her first column was about the President her views on him. The 2nd was about everything going on in the middle east. She didn't want to just report on politics and things the news already reported on. The news was depressing enough. She didn't want to add to that. That thought made Natalie make up her mind. She would report on life. What it's like to be a columnist, mother. The whole mine. Who knew? Maybe every now and then she would give advice like Dear Abby. It could be called Ask Nat. Working up the nerve, she wrote her first word: The.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Great post Brandon! :) Can't wait for more.

[Shine]

Brandon, you're really putting us through some serious drama here. You're doing a great job though. You know you've done a good job when Meghan starts crying. :lol: ;)

[RoryGilmore]

Brandon, you're really putting us through some serious drama here. You're doing a great job though. You know you've done a good job when Meghan starts crying. :lol: ;)


Haha very funny!

Since LoveMrsG doesnt post much any more and Billie's story isnt as sad anymore my crying has slowed down thank you.

He's right though Brandon, you know yo're doing good when I start crying.


Anyway I'm glad Brittney is starting to change her attitude, cant wait for more :)

[PlayOn]

SPOILER: (read over if you don't want to be spoiled) Keep Kleenex handy, just in case for the next couple of posts.
Happy reading. :)


“I don’t know.” Britney stated. “They both sound normal to me.”
“So, you’re telling me ‘Is you going to the movies tonight?’ better than ‘Are you going to the movies tonight?’ “
“I’m sorry. My mind is on Travis.”
“Well, get it on your homework.” Monica demanded. “I told you, there are plenty other fish in the sea.”
“I know. But easier said than done. Yea, he’s a jerk; but he also had his good qualities.”
“Like?”
“How he’d look at me rather than the screen whenever we’d go see a movie. Even if it was a Bruce Willis one. And he loves Bruce Willis.”
Monica became uncomfortable. She always was when Britney talked about Travis. She knew she should tell her, but how? How do you tell your best friend that?
“Are you ok?” asked Britney, who was looking at her.
“Yea. Just fine.”
“You don’t look it. You flushed. Are you going to be sick? If you are, go to the bathroom. You know how much I love these sheets.”
“I’m not going to be sick.”
Just tell her, Monica thought. She’s you’re best friend. She has a right to know.
“Well,” Britney said, getting up from the bed. “I’m getting something to eat. You want anything?”
“No. I have something to tell you. About Travis.”
“What?”
“We made out. I almost slept with him.”
“You WHAT?!”
“Brit, I’m sorry. I really am.”
“You suck my boyfriends face and all you can say is you’re sorry?”
“What do you want me to do? Sacrifice a goat for you?”
“When? When did this happen?”
“At the Halloween party at Bates last year. As you know, I had a bit too much to drink that night and…”
“My gosh, Mon. Travis and I had been going out for years by then. You knew we were!”
“Hey, I was drunk! But Travis wasn’t. He knew what he was doing. I didn’t.”
“That makes it so much better!” Britney rolled her eyes.
“What I mean is, you have every right to be mad at me, but it takes two people to kiss.”
Britney knew exactly what she meant. She needed to lash out at Travis, as well. And would she ever! She walked to the door and opened it, but, just then, a knock came on her bedroom window. Monica opened it. Britney couldn’t believe her eyes.
“Travis.”
***
The next morning, Jo laid wide awake in bed, planning in her mind all she needed to do that day. The only thing she kept coming back to was to call her mother. She put it off long enough. Reaching for her cell phone, Jo dialed the number. Jake was at work, so knew she wouldn’t be interrupted.
“Hello?” Rose picked up on the 2nd ring.
“Hey, Ma. It’s me.”
“Jo?! Sweetie, how are you?”
“Good. It’s good to hear your voice.” Jo fought hard not to cry.
“It’s good to hear yours to. What have you been up to?”
“Nothing I want to tell you on the phone. Could come over to your place?”
“Sure. Believe it or not, I have the day off.”
“Really? First time in a long time.”
“I know. Anyways, sure you can come over. About what time?”
“Well, I still have to take a shower and get dressed, so how’s 12?”
“See you then.”
“OK. And, Ma?”
“Yea, sweetie?”
“I love you.”
“I love you, too.”
***
“Here you are, Mrs. Sanchez.” Natalie said as she handed her boss her column to go in the next days paper.
“Great. Thank you, Natalie. How’s your friend doing?”
“Good, I guess. She has her break down moments, though.”
“That’s to be excepted. After all, her husband just died.”
“I know. It’s still sad and scary. Anyway, let me know what you think.”
As Natalie walked out of Sanchez’s office, her cell phone rang. She looked at the caller ID. Eastland. Uh-oh.
“Hello?” Natalie said into the mouth piece.
“Mrs. Green, this is Mrs. Wu, Eastland head mistress. I need you to come in immediately!”
“May I ask why?”
“I caught your daughter kissing a boy in her dorm.”
“What?!” Natalie couldn’t believe her ears. “What boy?”
“Travis Goldman.”
Natalie’s fear. She sighed in disbelief.
“Alright. I’m on my way.”
“And, Ms. Green. She’s being expelled over this one.”
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Great post Brandon. I have my kleenex handy...what are you going to torture us with in the upcoming posts???

Can't wait to read more.

[PlayOn]

I'm writing the next part as we speak (also going back forth between and here and Twitter, but am about to leave both to fully work on 'SM')
More tomorrow. :)

[RoryGilmore]

I've always got my Kleenex ready, Cant wait to see what I'll be using them over this time

[PlayOn]

Looking back at what I've written, this post isn't that either. Not to me anyway. You be the judge. :) Enjoy.
NOTE: Please pray for my mother. She's feeling really sick an we have family coming tomorrow and they're leaving on (I believe) Sunday. Dad took her to the doctors office earlier.

When Natalie walked in the head mistress’ office, a Chinese woman who looked to be in her mid-30s and very prim and proper was sitting behind the desk. Britney was sitting on the couch, right beside Monica Wells.
“Mrs. Green?” asked Mrs. Wu.
“Yes.”
“I’m Mrs. Wu. Your daughter is in quit of bit of trouble.”
“So I heard.”
“Before we go any further, I think you should know, we caught her and this boy last night. We would’ve called you then, but it was well after midnight.”
“Well, I thank you.” Natalie, then turned to her daughter. “Kissing a boy, huh? And, worse, that boy being Travis Goldman, the boy I told you to stay away from. Brit, what were you thinking? What happened to the promise you gave me the day you came back here?”
“I didn’t kiss him. He kissed me.”
“What was he doing in your room?”
“He just showed up. I called him earlier to tell him we couldn’t see each other anymore. He lashed out at me. Later, Monica was helping me with my homework. I went to get something to eat when we heard a knock on the window. Mon opened it and it was Travis. I told him to leave, but he said he was their to apologize.”
“I started to go tell somebody,” Monica chimed in. “But Travis told me not to. I would regret it if I did, so I didn’t. That’s when he kissed Britney. He wanted to take it further but somebody appeared in the door way. They ran to tell somebody. Travis climbed back out the window. He was gone by the time anybody showed up.”
“And, mom.” Britney continued. “He seemed high or drunk or…something.”
“And your expelling her for something that wasn’t her fault?” Natalie turned back to Mrs. Wu.
“No, not over that. Over the little fit she threw because nobody would believe her. The language she used!”
“Sorry.” Britney replied. “I tend to get testy when people call me a liar!”
“You see? Mrs. Green, you need to control your daughter better.”
“Control my daughter better? And who are you? Mother of the year?”
“Well, my daughter is in college, a straight A student and is on the Deans List at Langley. She’s also dating a man who may very well be the next President of the United States.”
Natalie wanted nothing more than to smack the holier-than-thou before her, but she wasn’t the kind of girl who would handle herself very well in prison.
“Alright, Britney,” she said instead. “Go get your stuff.”
“What’s going to happen to Monica?”
“She’s on suspension for two weeks.” Mrs. Wu explained. “I called her parents before you two came in here.”
Britney walked out of the room. Natalie hoped her daughter wouldn’t be too long. As much as she loved Eastland, it now had too many rules, even more than when Mr. Parker was here. Hopefully, Blair would be back soon.
***
“Are you serious?!” Blair asked Natalie, who was on the other end of the phone. “Mrs. Wu expelled them for that?!”
“Well, Britney got expelled for good. Monica got expelled for a few weeks. But, yea. Over one misunderstanding.”
“I’m sorry, Nat. I’m coming back to work tomorrow, so I’ll sort things out and get Britney back in school.”
“Thanks.”
Natalie just pulled out of the Eastland parking lot when Blair called wanting to know if she had spoke to Dorothy. No was the answer, then Natalie told about the kissing incident.
“How are things at The Press?” asked Blair.
“Great. I turned in yesterdays column. It’s on my experiences as a writer for The Peekskill Press.”
“Can’t wait to read it.”
“Thanks. Well, I’m going to call Dorothy.”
“Alright. Tell her I’ll call her later. As I’m sure Jo will, too.”
“Will do. Bye.”
“Bye.”
Natalie hung up and started to search for a number.
“Mom.” Britney said from the back seat.
“Yea, sweetie.”
“I don’t want to go back to Eastland.”
“Mrs. Warner will be back tomorrow.”
“I don’t care. I want to go to back to public school.”
“Brit, you’ve been kicked out of almost every public school in Peekskill. Once you’ve been kicked out, they don’t let you back in.”
“Can’t you at least try? You said so yourself that Eastland had too many rules.”
“I know, but aunt Blair will be back tomorrow and things will be back to normal.”
“But what if she gets pregnant or something and has to take time off again? I have no control over my actions if they hire Mrs. Wu again.”
“Alright, fine. I’ll see what I can do. OK?”
“OK. Thanks.”
Natalie continued searching for Dorothy’s number.
***
Happy Fourth, everybody! patriot:

[ZeldaGilroy]

Wow...I do not care for Mrs. Wu. How dare she try to make Nat feel like a bad mother because her daughter has made some mistakes. Parents blame themselves enough when their kids mess up and do not need others to add to it. Britney was wrong to yell and cuss, but otherwise she really didn't do anything wrong and Mrs. Wu blew the whole thing out of proportion. Sometimes people really tick me off!

I am praying for your mom Brandon. Keep us posted. I hope she feels better so she can enjoy time with the family.

[PlayOn]

I think she's feeling a little better. I got something wrong, though. The family showed up last night. My little cousins are here. They keep on telling me how much they miss me. Very sweet. Can't wait to go back.
Anyways, here's some more. I doubt if I'll post tomorrow, btw.
***
Jo looked up at the familiar apartment. She lived here ever since she was a baby. By the looks of it and the looks of the city, you would wonder why anybody would let their kid grow up here. Drug deals were on every corner. It was nothing for a person to pick up a prostitute right outside the one and only McDonalds in town. Not exactly Mayfield on ‘Leave it to Beaver,’ but this was the best Jo’s parents could afford. And they did want her out. At 14, they sent to Peekskill to attend Eastland School for Girls. The only time she was back were for visits. Jo hasn’t visited her folks since her father passed. That was 3 years ago. Working up her nerve, she climbed the familiar stairs to her floor.
***
“Ma!” Jo exclaimed happily after Rose opened the door. The two women hugged. Jo didn’t want to let go.
“I’m so glad to see you.” Rose said, her voice cracking with emotion.
“Me, too.”
“Well, come in.”
They broke the hug and Rose stepped aside to let her daughter in the apartment. The place hadn’t changed since she was in it 3 years ago. Same couch, wallpaper, table and TV. Jo liked it. She smiled as the memories came rushing back to her.
“Would you like anything to eat?” asked Rose. “I made some cookies.”
“Your famous?”
“Nothing but.”
“Sure. Let me have one.”
“Alright.” Rose took a chocolate chip cookie off of a plan white plate and gave it to her daughter, who devoured it with two bites. She loved her mothers recipe for chocolate chip cookies. Although you may think they’re easy to make, Jo never took advantage of the hard work her mother put into making them. Hard because the woman was on her feet all the time. She barely had anytime to herself. And when she did have time, she was always doing little things for her family. Like making cookies for her daughter.
“Would you like some milk?”
“No, thanks. Milk will make me want even more cookies and I don’t need them.”
“What are you talking about?” asked Rose. “You’re in great shape. A few more cookies aren’t going to hurt you.”
“Yea, they will.”
“Huh?”
Jo had held off long enough. Time to come clean.
“That’s why I’m here. Ma, I have osteoporosis.”
Rose feel silent, not sure what to say. She hoped her daughter would never catch it. Guess she didn’t hope enough.
“They say it could a number of things: genetic, menopause. I’m supposed to know in a couple weeks how I got this. But I can’t wait that long. Would you happen to know where I did get it? Did anybody in the family have it and I just didn’t know?”
“Yes.”
“What?! Who?”
“Your father. He died from osteoporosis. They found it so late, there was nothing the doctors could do.”
“And you lied to me?! He said he died from natural causes!”
“I’m sorry, but I know how you get. I didn’t want you to worry you.”
“I wouldn’t have! I would’ve gotten tested, sure. But I wouldn’t waste my day worrying about it. I’m a police officer. I have other things on my plate. Or was a police officer.”
“They fired you because of this?”
“No. They made me take some time off. I can’t believe you lied to me!”
“I know. And I’m sorry. God knows how I laid awake in bed ever since then feeling guilty for what I did.”
“I’m out of here!”
“Jo, wait!”
But Jo was already out the door. Rose let the tears roll down her cheeks. She hated herself. Going to the fridge, she opened it and took out a bottle of vodka, another thing she’d been hiding from her daughter for the past 3 years.
***
The Bronx, NY. May 2nd, 2007.

“Sorry I can’t stay longer.” Jo said as she hugged her mother.
“I understand. Being a police officer is a big responsibility.”
Jo and Rose broke the hug and stared into each others eyes.
“Dad really loved you.” Jo stated, her voice dripping with tears.
“I know. He loved you, too.”
Rose embraced her daughter again for one more hug, then let her leave. Silence filled the little apartment. Isn’t it strange how silence is more deafening than the loudest music?
Trying to get her mind off of her ex-husbands funeral, she started to clean the kitchen. She picked up a ham Jo brought over the night before, took it to the fridge and opened the door. Inside, she found the bottle of vodka her friend, Jerry, had brought over a few nights ago when he came over to help her plan for Charlie’s funeral. They had a few drinks and shared some laughs, the first good time she had since Charlie collapsed in her apartment. Jerry left early the next morning, leaving the vodka their. She hadn’t took a sip since.
Shaking her head free from the memories, she tried to put the big ham in the small fridge. Too big. Something would have to be moved. The vodka. Rose put the ham back on the table and removed the bottle from it’s place. Sitting the drink beside the ham, she picked up the meat and tried to put it in the fridge again. Perfect fit. Now, what to do about the liquor?
***
PS: Just so everybody knows. I'm not against drinking. Just over excess and drinking for the wrong reasons. In my stories, it may sound like I'm against it, but I'm not. Just wanted to make that clear.

[ZeldaGilroy]

So sad between Rose and Jo. :(

I am glad your mom is feeling better. I hope whatever you are dealing with gets better soon too.

[PlayOn]

OK, well I'm going to post. lol. Some of the family is out on the boat. We went out yesterday and I burnt (curse my Irish blood :mad:) so I decided not to go, which leaves posting time.
Enjoy. :)
***

The Bronx, NY. May 2nd, 2007

Rose knocked on the door. A few a minutes later, an elderly Hispanic man opened it. He looked half asleep.
“Rose,” he said, yawning and in thick accent. “What are you doing here?”
“I came to return this.” She replied, giving him the bottle of vodka.
“I gave it to you, though.”
“Thanks. But I don’t have room for it. I had to take it out of the fridge just to put a ham in their.”
“Alright. Thanks.” Jerry took the bottle. “Hey, want to come in? I was getting ready to watch the Knicks play.”
“No, thanks. I have to go finish cleaning up. Besides, I’m a Yankees girl.”
“OK. Well, how about after you get done? I‘m sure a Yankees game will be on.”
“I’ll think about it. Enjoy your game.”
“Always do.”
***
Everything was clean. The kitchen, living room, bathroom. If it ended with the word ‘room‘, Rose cleaned it. She didn’t want to go to Jerry’s. Jo was at work. Nothing else to do except watch TV. Naturally, nothing was on. One of Jo’s splurges when she saved enough money from her paychecks was on her mother when she bought her a DirecTV box. Rose insisted she didn’t need it. But Jo was hardheaded and made her take it, as a way to say thanks for all she had done for her through all the years. Nothing except sex and violence was on. Rose could see that just by looking out the window.
She turned off the tube. Silence. For the first time since all this happened, Rose finally cried. She didn’t cry at the hospital, when Charlie was pronounced dead a few hours after she brought him in or at the funeral. Now, like a waterfall, tears came.
“Why did you have to go?”
Although Rose and Charlie were divorced and didn’t get along very well, deep down, she still loved him. They had a child together and have beat all the odds living in the Bronx. How could one throw all that away?
Maybe I don’t need to be by myself tonight, she thought. Thank heaven for friends like Jerry.
***
“I’m glad you decided to come over.” Jerry said as he and Rose walked in his little living room and sat down on the couch.
“I am, too.”
Jerry’s apartment looked exactly like hers. Except for the decorations, of course. She had feminine taste, while pictures of football and sports cars covered his walls.
“Can I get you any thing to drink?” asked Jerry.
“No, thanks. I’m good.”
“Alright. Well, you let me know. I’ll be in the kitchen.”
After Jerry left, Rose found herself alone again. She would turn on the TV, but if nothing would be on in her apartment, nothing would be on in his.
Her mind, then, flashed back to the night he came over and the fun they had. The laughter. It sure beat the hurt she was feeling inside right now. Getting up, Rose walked to the kitchen, where Jerry was taking a frozen dinner out it’s container.
“You hungry?” he asked.
“No. But I am thirsty. How about some vodka?”
“Coming right up.”
Rose watched as he took a glass out the cabinet, opened the fridge and took out the drink. Something inside her asked what she was doing? The only answer she could give her mind was she needed this. After all she’s been through these last couple of years, she was entitled to some fun after all. What was wrong with that?
“Here ya go.”
Rose took the glass and drunk it in one gulp. Wonderful. Her pain did go away. Just a little though.
“Another.” she said, giving Jerry the glass.
***
Peekskill, NY. Present.

“Peekskill High,” a cheery voice female voice said. “This is Stacy Vice. How may I help you?”
“Hi, Stacy. This is Natalie Green. I’m calling you about my daughter, Britney Davidson. She went to PHS, but got expelled for vandalism.”
“Oh, yes. I remember.”
“Well, I was wondering if there was any way she could be enrolled back in your school.”
“I sorry, but when we spoke to you, we made it very clear she was not allowed back.”
“I understand why you feel that way. But she doesn’t want to go back to the school she’s at now and I’ve called every school in the county and they said the said the same thing.”
“I’m sorry. Have a nice day.”
“But…”
Dial tone. Natalie swore under her breath and hung up the phone. Why are they being so stupid? Natalie asked herself. As if they hadn’t made mistakes when they were teenagers! Britney heard and saw all this from the top of the stairs and tears filled her eyes. She hated herself. There was only one thing to do: go back to Eastland and bite her tongue if she were to run into Mrs. Wu.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Excellent post Brandon. I love the depth of this story. You are exploring so much and doing a great job with it. Can't wait for more.

I hope your sunburn heals quickly. I'm a burner too, so I know how it feels. Ouch!

[PlayOn]

sucks don't it? lol. seriously, if one spot is without sunblock, it will be known the next day. i'm supposed to be Irish and Indian (amoung others decents I can't think of) but I'm obviously more Irish than anything.
more tomorrow

[Shine]

I think your story is getting better and better, Brandon. As Billie posted, the story has a lot of depth to it. Keep up the great work. :)

[PlayOn]

Thanks. :) I hope everybody had a safe and great 4th of July. Enjoy this one.

A few week weeks later, Dorothy was in a taxi, on her way to the airport. She stared out at the scenery and thought about Trey. He grew up here. He climbed these trees and jumped in the these lakes. Snap out of it, Dorothy. She told herself. Her mind didn’t listen. She thought back to 5 minutes ago when she was standing in the Wilson living room, hugging Keith and Sharon goodbye. They told her to call if she needed anything and vice versa. The weeks she stayed with them were, actually, fun. Dorothy and Sharon went to movies, the salon, shopping. It was like being with Blair, Natalie and Jo. Keith even took her fishing one day. Dorothy didn’t catch anything except a little cold, all thanks to Keith tipping the boat over when he tried to open the cooler to take out a Diet Coke. She laughed about it now, like she did then.
“What’s so funny?” the cab driver asked.
“Oh, nothing. Just remembering something that happened over the weekend.”
“Oh? What?”
“You had to be their.”
***
Britney shut her locker, books in hand, turned and bumped into Renee Von Cloud, the meanest girl at Eastland. She thought she was the ‘it’ girl on campus just because her dad had a partnership with Google and had millions of dollars. Red haired, green eyed, fair skinned and a body to die for, it was hard not to be jealous.
“Watch where I’m going!” Renee snarled and continued walking.
“Are you OK?” asked Monica, who walked to her friend after Renee and her posse left. Her locker was a few feet away, so she saw the whole thing.
“Yea. I can’t believe I decided to come back here! What was I thinking?!”
“You didn’t want to put your mom through too much stress because she’s stressed out enough as it is.”
“Well, I seriously want to kick myself in the butt for thinking that.”
“Relax, Brit. You did a good thing. And don’t ever get tired of that.”
“Write for the greeting card business in your spare time, do you?”
Just then, the bell to go to the next class rang. Britney rolled her eyes. Renee was in this class as well. Seriously, Britney thought. What was I thinking?
***
Here she was again. Back in the exact same room she was in the day she found out she had this terrible disease. Only this time, it would be revealed how she got it. Jo tried to take her mind off of it by staring out the window. The daycare across the street didn’t have any kids out. Guess they were still at school. It was just 1 o’clock.
Right then, she heard a noise that was like music to her ears. The door opening and closing behind her. Jo turned and found Andrew standing before her, clipboard and all.
“Jo,” he began. “How have you been?”
“Good.” Lie. Having osteoporosis, going to a funeral and finding out your mother lied to you about why your father died equaled horrible and every word that fell under.
“Good. Well, we found out why you have osteo.”
“And?”
“Turns out, it was genetic.”
Jo wasn’t surprised in the least. Her mother told her that a few weeks ago.
“I have a confession to make.” Jo stated. “ I already knew. I went to see my mother to tell her what I have. And she told me I got it from my dad. He had it all his life and didn’t even know it. When they did find it, it was too late. He died.”
“I’m sorry.”
“Not your fault.”
“You said this disease wasn’t in your family. Did you ask her why he died before you found out he had osteo?”
“Sure I did. She lied and said it was natural causes.”
“She was just trying to protect you.”
“That’s what she said.”
“Well, it’s the truth.”
Jo knew that. And she appreciated it. But she didn’t like being lied to. Especially by her own mother.
“As far as your progress,” Andrew continued. “You seem to be doing pretty good. You’re bones show that you’ve been taking your vitamins and medicine.”
“Everyday.”
“Good woman. Some people don’t. They think osteoporosis will automatically go away by itself or something. That it’s no big deal. That’s why half of them end up in here when they have no reason to be. Foolishness.”
“Well, no offense, Andy. But I have better things to do with my time than see you.” Jo smiled.
“The feeling’s mutual.”
Andrew smiled back. Jo laughed.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Another great post Brandon. :)

[Shine]

Great job, Brandon! :) Renee Von Cloud sounds like the name of a snotty, rich girl. :lol: Keith tipping the boat over was funny. :lol:

[PlayOn]

Thanks. :) Monica's last name was going to be Von Cloud but, like Mike said, I thought that was a rich people name. lol. Then I thought of Renee. She may be back. I don't know. Anyways, enjoy this one. :)
Mike: I may watch 'I Want To Believe' later. Do you recommend it?
***
The next morning, Dorothy felt relieved. She woke up in her own bed. The bed at her in laws was like sleeping on rocks. She didn’t sat anything because that would be disrespectful. For two solid weeks, though, she had to sleep on that lump of nothing. It’s a wonder she didn’t have back problems. Yet, anyway.
Last night wasn’t as bad as to be excepted. It was her first night alone. The night Trey died, Natalie slept over. Right up until she went to Treys’ parents, Mrs. Garrett and one of the girls would sleep at her house. They left her alone all night, but she knew they were somewhere in the house. Last night, nobody was there. She slept surprisingly well.
Well, Dorothy thought to herself. Time to start the day.
***
Natalie sat in her cubical. She had already turned in tomorrows column to Mrs. Sanchez and was now thinking about the next days. Maybe if she got at least an idea, she would actually enjoy her night rather than stressing on her next topic. Nothing came to her. Maybe it’s time to pull Ask Nat out of her hat of ideas. That was the only one she had after all. All she had to do now was ask Sanchez if she couldn’t have her column back to add a sentence or two:
I’m starting a new thing called Ask Nat. Send me your questions and I’ll be more than happy to answer them.
Hey, a person had to advertise if they want costumers.
Suddenly, her phone rang.
“Peekskill Press. This is Natalie Green. How man I help you?”
“Mrs. Green,” a male said. “This is Principal Townsend of George Washington High School. I’m calling about your daughter Britney Davidson.”
Oh, gosh! Natalie thought. What did Britney do to or at that school?
“What about Britney?” asked Natalie, swallowing hard. Nervous.
“I received a call from Peekskill High a few days ago from Mrs. Vice and she said that your daughter wanted to get out of the school she’s at now. PHS won’t take her because she’s already been expelled. But I believe she has a place at George Washington High.”
Natalie couldn’t believe her ears.
“I don’t understand.”
“Mrs. Vice feels bad for you and Britney. She said if it was up her, she’d let your daughter come back. Everybody deserves a second change, right? But she’s just a secretary and has no say in who stays and goes. She called me and explained the situation. We would like to give her a chance.”
“Yes! I mean, I’ll have to call and ask her first, but I’m sure she’ll be thrilled.”
“OK. Call me back whenever you can.”
Townsend gave her the number to the school and Natalie wrote it down. After thanking him, she hung up and called Eastland.
***
The next day, Natalie and Britney sat out in office of George Washington High School. Britney could not have been more relieved than when she got the call from her mother asking if she still wanted to change schools and that a school was interested in her.
“You nervous?” asked Natalie, looking at her daughter.
“No. What makes you ask that?”
“You fingernails. You’ve been biting them for the past 5 minutes and they’re already down to the skin.”
“Alright. A little.”
“Well, don’t be. From our phone conversation, Mr. Townsend seemed like a nice man.”
“Yea. And you talked to him all of what? Five seconds?”
“He’s giving you the chance to come in his school. Something must be nice about him, right?”
“I guess. I just wish he would hurry up and call us.”
Like magic, an African American male appeared behind a door that had a name plate on that read Mr. Franklin Townsend.
“Miss Davidson?”
Britney took a deep breath, got up and walked to the man inside his office. Natalie followed.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Great post. I'm glad there is a school out there that will take Britney. She deserves a second chance.

[PlayOn]

Thanks. :)
Totally off topic, but I love what you have for your location. :lol:

[ZeldaGilroy]

Thanks. It's completely true. I am always lost! :lol:

[Shine]

I would highly recommend I Want to Believe, Brandon. :) Great post too! :)

[PlayOn]

^^^ I watched it (before I read your reply) and I loved it. I liked the spritual reffences in it. That was my first exposure to X-Files, btw. I've heard of it, but never watched. New fan.
Anyways, more tomorrow.
Thanks for the replies. :)

[PlayOn]

Blair fans, a post dedicated just for your favorite girl. Enjoy. :)
***

Blair couldn’t believe her eyes. The test couldn’t be right. But it had to be. That was the 5th one she’s taken. Plus, the signs were all their. What would Brad think? Would he be happy? She looked at herself in the mirror and smiled.
“Hi, honey.” she said, pretending her reflection in the mirror was her husband. “I have some news that will change our lives forever. I’m pregnant!”
***
“You’re what?!” Brad exclaimed after Blair told him face to face that night after supper.
“Pregnant. I just found out today.”
“Are you sure? You know how those things aren’t 100%.”
“Yes. I took it 5 times. All came back positive.”
Brad went into a trace, not believing what was happening. He was going to be a daddy for the first time ever. He always wanted to be one, but he didn’t except it to happen. Life WAS unexpected.
“Brad, are you OK?”
“Yea. I’m just… stunned.”
“That makes two of us. Are you happy?”
Brad turned to his wife.
“Happy?” he asked, smiling. “I’m ecstatic!”
He picked Blair up and swung her around the room, laughing. Blair was laughing, too. Not looking where he was going, he tripped over the coffee table and they fell into a nearby chair, Blair on bottom. She didn’t seem to be hurt. She continued laughing, harder even.
Brad brushed the hair out of his wife’s face and stared lovingly into her eyes and her in his. He, then, leaned down and kissed her passionately.
***
“You’re trying to steal my thunder, aren’t you?” Dorothy joked.
“It looks that way.” Blair replied with a slight chuckle.
So far, Blair had call of the girls (including Mrs. Garrett) and gave the news that she was excepting. All were happy for her. Shocked, but happy. Dorothy was no exception.
“Are you going to find out you’re going to have?” asked Dorothy.
“No. We want to be surprised.”
“I would loose my mind.”
“When are you going to find out?”
“In a few days. I called earlier to see if I couldn’t come in sooner. No luck.”
“Well, give us a call once you find out.”
“Will do. Jo’s going to come with me to the appointment.”
“Really?” Just then, a knock came on Blair’s office door came. “Dorothy, I have to go. I’ll talk to you soon.”
“Alright. Later.”
“Bye.”
Blair hung up the phone, got up from her desk and opened the door. Nobody was standing their. But she looked down and saw a big teddy bear holding a smaller one. A card was leaned up against them. Blair picked them up and brought them to her desk. The outside read ‘to my baby who’s having a baby.
Inside was blank, but something was wrote in black pen.
‘Blair, I can’t tell you how excited I am we’re finally starting a family of our own. I told everybody at the office and they’re already planning a baby shower. Don’t worry. I won’t volunteer to be on the decorating committee. Haha. I love you. You’re a special lady. A star brighter than any in the sky. See you tonight at Mendoza‘s.
Love you forever and always.
-Brad.’
Blair closed the card and gently rubbed the cover, tears in her eyes. Brad hadn’t forgotten. Mendoza’s was the place they shared their first kiss 6 years this very day. M’s (as Brad liked to call it) was very classy restaurant in Manhattan. Blair had never eaten their, but Brad had numerous times and took her their. Blair was actually going to break up with him that night, but the place had such a romantic atmosphere, they winded up sharing their first kiss over a candle lit dinner. Who could drop a man after that?
Snapping back to the present, Blair put the card back inside the envelope and sat behind her desk, trying to find something to do. But she couldn’t concentrate. Her mind was on what was going to happen in just a handful of hours.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Aaawww...that was sweet. I'm so happy for Blair!

[Shine]

I loved that post, Brandon! :) I'm glad that you enjoyed I Want to Believe. I'm sorry that it didn't do better in the theaters. I went to see it twice. I've also watched it a number of times on DVD. I think that Billy Connelly was great as Father Joe.

[RoryGilmore]

Ok I'm all caught up :) Great posts Brandon!

[PlayOn]

Thanks. :)
Mike: Yes. Billy did a great job as Father Joe.
Enjoy this. :)

A few days later, Blair woke up in bed, turned and found Brad looking at her.
“Hey.” she smiled.
“Hey. Sleep well?”
“Like a baby. You?”
“Same.”
Brad leaned in and kissed his wife. They were really getting into it, when Blair’s cell phone rang.
“Ugh!” she exclaimed, pulling away from the kiss.
“Ignore it.”
“No. That’s my reminder tone. Let me check it.” Blair grabbed her phone off the night stand and looked at it. “I’m glad I did. Dorothy has a doctor’s appointment today. She’s supposed to figure out what she’s going to have.”
“You going?”
“No. Jo’s is. Natalie has to work. So do I. Dorothy’s supposed to call us as soon as she hears anything, though.”
“I hope everything works out. What time is it?”
“6:00.”
“And you don’t have to be at work until 7. Come back to bed.”
“No, thank you. Spending too much in bed with you is how I got pregnant in the first place.”
“Ouch!”
***
“Thanks for coming.” Dorothy said, hugging Jo.
“You’re welcome. I’m glad everything worked out the way you wanted.”
“I know. I can’t believe I’m having a boy! Trey would’ve been so proud.”
“He is.”
The girls broke the hug. Jo’s remark made Dorothy smile. She realized Trey saw and knew everything that was going on. They were standing outside of Dorothy’s blue Mustang convertible in the hospital parking lot. She knew what she was going to have and when she was due. Boy. February 15, 2010.
“I have to call the girls.” Dorothy stated. “They’re probably going crazy.”
“Alright. I’ll see you later.”
“OK. Love you.”
“Love you, too.”
The girls hugged again.
***
Dorothy had done it. She called Natalie and Blair. Now, Mrs. Edna Garrett. Excited and nervous, she searched for the woman’s number in her contact list. Once she found it, she hesitated, rehearsing in her mind what she was going to say. She knew Mrs. Garrett well enough to know the questions that would be asked.
Just do it, Wilson! Dorothy finally told her herself. Holding her breath, she pressed the call button.
“Hello?” Edna’s voice came on the other end.
“Mrs. G, it’s Dorothy.”
“Dorothy? Hey, sweetie. How are you?”
“Great. I just done at the doctor’s office.”
“Oh? Do you know what you’re going to have yet?”
“Yes. A boy.”
“Really? Well, congratulations.”
“Thanks.” Dorothy couldn’t stop smiling. She had tears in her eyes. Of joy, of course.
“Have you picked out a name?”
“Yea. Trey Jr.”
“Oh. That’s really sweet.”
“Thanks. When I called the others, they said the same thing.”
“Keep me posted.”
“Will do.”
“I’ll come down when you go into labor. When is that?”
“The doctor said February 15th.”
“I’ll be their on the 13th.”
That made Dorothy smile bigger, if that was even possible.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Yay! It's a boy...I was hoping it would be a boy. :)

Great work Brandon!

[PlayOn]

Thanks. :)
Billie: Did you have a mullet? I didn't get the chance to experiment with one because I was born when the '80s were almost over ('87) Btw, this is the reason I PM'd you, asking if you knew if Edna had any other sisters besides Beverly Ann.
Happy reading. :)

Weeks past and Britney seemed to be handling George Washington High very well. No calls from the principal. She came right home and studied until it was time to eat supper then studied some more. Good sign. Natalie thought about this after she read a question that was going to go in her Ask Nat column tomorrow. The first one a few weeks ago was received so well, Mrs. Sanchez asked if Nat wouldn’t like to do an advice column once a week. She agreed. The question she was reading was: ‘I have an out of control teenage daughter. She sleeps around and is very disrespectful. You said in a previous column you had a teenage daughter. What should I do?
-Desperate Mother.
All Natalie had written was ‘Dear, Desperate…’ Then she went down memory lane, thinking about how Britney was before she went to stay with Jo the night Nat stayed with Dorothy. And then she compared that Britney to the Britney she was now. Nat didn’t know what Jo did, but she thanked her lucky stars everyday for it. Britney has acted like an angel ever since.
Focus, Green! She told herself.
***
“How did it go?” asked Edna, standing as her sister made her way to her.
“Everything’s great.” Beverly Ann exclaimed. “I don’t have a death date… yet.”
“And you never will. Want to grab a bite to eat?”
“No. After all my doctors appointments, I’m kind of tired. Can we just go home?”
“Sure.”
The ladies walked out of the hospital and into Edna’s old pickup. She loved this old thing and drove it pretty well. It her dads and he taught her how drive in it on a back road. When she went to take her drivers test, she passed with flying colors. Beverly Ann wasn’t so lucky. It took her two tries and she still scored fair while Edna scored perfectly. She tried not to show it was a big deal to make her sister feel better, but inside she was jumping up and down.
“He upped my medicine.” Beverly Ann explained. “Now, I have to take it twice a day.”
“I’m just glad you’re ok. To tell you the truth, that night you showed up on the doorstep, I didn’t think you would make it through the night.”
“I didn’t think I would either. But, you know Mama and Daddy’s wedding picture that’s in my room?”
“Yea.”
“Well, I looked at that. And something inside me said that everything was going to be ok. I feel asleep and the next morning, the feeling of death wasn’t on me. For the first time since I got this cancer, I felt like I was going to live.”
“That’s beautiful.”
“I owe it all to you, too.”
“Me?”
“Yea.”
“What did I do?”
“You’re strong. In every situation, I ask myself, what would Edna do? When life knocks you down, you get right back up. I need to do the same.”
“That’s really sweet, Beverly Ann. Thank you.”
Edna reached down and took her sisters hand held it for the rest of the drive home.
***

[Shine]

Keep up the great work, Brandon. Oh, in junior high I had mullet like hair. It was short on the side and longish on top and in back. Of course, that's the way most boys had their hair at the time.

[ZeldaGilroy]

I had a mullet in elementary school. It was UGLY because my hair is naturally curly so it kind of looked like an afro on top.

Great post Brandon. I'm hoping for more soon!:)

[RoryGilmore]

Excellent post, Brandon.

[daveschaub]

Hey guys. Where I can get the whole story of this fic....
I want to read all at once..
The story seems nice..
Hope cant get a reply from this..
See yeah.

[RoryGilmore]

Hey guys. Where I can get the whole story of this fic....
I want to read all at once..
The story seems nice..
Hope cant get a reply from this..
See yeah.


There should be page numbers on the screen, click 1 and theres the beginning.

[PlayOn]

Yay! A new reader. Thanks. :) I hope you enjoy it. :)
Sorry I haven't posted for a few days. My laptop was giving me trouble. Anyway, here's the real reason you clicked on this. lol. Enjoy. :)


“Hello?” Jo said as she picked up the phone.
“Is Joanne Marie Covington their?” a man asked.
“Who wants to know?”
“This is Dr. Valdoni of Lady of Sorrows hospital. I need to speak with Mrs. Covington about her mother.
Jo’s heart sank. She acknowledged to the man she was Jo.
“Mrs. Covington,” Dr. Valdoni continued. “Your mother was found by friend, Jerry Lopez. According to him, he knocked on the door, but nobody answered, which was odd because you mother called him and told him to meet her their. He opened the door and went inside. Mr. Lopez found her passed out on her bed, vodka bottle in her hand. Mr. Lopez said he called her name and shook her, but she won’t respond. She barely had a pulse.”
Jo’s heart was racing. Her head was running with a bunch of questions. She pulled one out of the air, hoping it would lay most of them to rest: “is she ok.”
“We don’t know. She’s flat lined a few times, but we were able to revive her. You’d better come down here.”
“On my way.”
***
Jo paced the Our Lady of Sorrows hospital lobby. How could Ma be so stupid?! She asked herself. Overdosing on vodka! Out of the preaching she did to me about excessive drinking, she does it herself?!
“Jo.” a familiar voice said from behind her. Jo couldn’t have been more relieved.
“Blair,” she said, turning to her friend. “Thanks for coming. I didn’t know who else to call. Natalie and Dorothy have so much on their plate right now, I just…”
“Don’t worry about it. Any word?”
“No. And I’ve been here for an hour!”
“No news is good news, though.”
“I know. I just wish I could convince my mind that. I’ve been going crazy here, thinking all kinds of bad stuff that could be happening back their.”
“But, nothing is. OK? Calm down. Take deep breaths.”
Jo closed her eyes and exhaled heavily. She did loosen up some.
Just then, a male doctor walked up to them. His name read Dr. A. Valdoni, the same doctor that called Jo.
“How is she?” asked Jo, eyes full of worry.
“She hasn’t flat lined for quit some time, but we took some x-rays and found she has liver cancer, thanks alcohol poisoning.”
“Oh, no!” Jo exclaimed.
“Can it be cured?” asked Blair.
“Yes. By surgery. We hope to do that tomorrow. The next day at the most.”
“Can I see her?” asked Jo.
“Sure. She’s been asking about you anyway.”
***
NOTE: I got the Our Lady of Sorrows hospital name from The X-Files movie, 'I Want To Believe.'

[ZeldaGilroy]

Excellent post Brandon. Very sad that Jo's mother has cancer. I hope she will be okay.

Glad your laptop is working okay now. I was wondering where you've been the last day or so.

[RoryGilmore]

Excellent post Brandon, feel so sorry for Jo and Rose

[Shine]

Well done, Brandon. :) I'm sorry that Rose has cancer though.

[PlayOn]

If you want, answer the poll at the end of the section. Thanks again for reading and replying. :)

Jo walked in her mother’s room and found her laying upright in a hospital bed, watching TV. Fred Sanford’s voice came from the box. Rose looked up at her visitor and turned it off.
“Hey.” she said, offering a half-smile.
Jo shut the door, then faced her mother.
“Why didn’t you tell me?” asked Jo, trying really hard not to show her anger.
“It’s complicated.”
“Complicated? Math tests are complicated. Working with somebody you don’t like is complicated. This is just stupidity!”
“Don’t talk to me like that! I’m your mother!”
“Really? Most mothers don’t keep secrets from their daughters! Especially ones like this!” Tears were in Jo’s eyes, which made Rose tear up. She felt like the worst mother in world.
“You don’t understand, Jo.”
“I think I do. You turned to alcohol after dad died instead of me or Jerry or anybody else. You were tired of the hurt, the pain, the memories. No person can make those things go away. But faithful booze does.”
“Jo…”
“No. Let me finish. Your first drink felt so good, you didn’t want that feeling to go away. You wanted more of it. Then more. Peace filled you. But the wrong kind of peace.”
“Don’t you think I know that?!”
“Yea. Now. Now that you’re laying in a hospital bed with liver cancer.”
“It can be cured.”
“I know, but what if you got one that couldn’t be, Ma?! What would you do then?! Turn to your liquid friend?!”
“Shut up! Just shut up! I didn’t hear you pick up the phone whenever I called, wanting to strike up a conversation.”
“I had to work, Ma. You know how being a police officer is. You work weird hours. You barely have time to yourself, much less family. Besides, you had Jerry. Why didn’t you talk to him?”
Rose feel silent. It was then that she realized her daughter was right. She called Jo, knowing in the back of her mind she couldn’t talk. Jerry had all the time in the world. He didn’t work. And when he did, it was only for a handful of hours. The excuse she gave to Jo was the alcohol talking: telling her she could run to it when everybody else didn’t have time for her. Rose went from feeling horrible to worse.
“I’m so sorry.” she cried. “I didn’t mean for this to happen.”
“I know.”
Although Jo did a hard job to fight them, tears were in her own eyes. She fought not let them flow, but she didn’t fight hard enough.
“Do you forgive me?”
“Yea. Just be more careful.”
***
“You wanted to see me, Mrs. Sanchez?” Natalie said, as she walked in her bosses office. A man she had never seen was sitting in a chair in front of Mrs. Sanchez’s desk. He looked to be about Nat’s age with blonde hair, green eyes and average build.
“Natalie,” Mrs. Sanchez spoke. “This is Brad Woodruff. I just hired him to take over your place as political reporter. I told him you’d show him around. You don’t mind, do you?”
“But the column. I really have to get busy on it.”
“Oh, please. I would, but I have a meeting that I’m already late for.”
“Alright. Sure.”
“Great. Thanks.”
Brad turned and smiled at Natalie. He’s cute, she thought.
***

POLL: Would like a little Nat/Brad romance?

[ZeldaGilroy]

Great Post. As for your poll...sure, I think Nat deserves a little romance! :)

[RoryGilmore]

I agree a little romance would be good for Nat

[Shine]

A romance for Natalie would be great. :)

[PlayOn]

Ok. Thanks. :) For Nat and Brad fans, the only name I can think of for their relationship is BrAt (Brad+Nat) lol. But feel free to call them whatever you want.
Enjoy. :)

The next day, Jo waited in the lobby of Our Lady of Sorrows hospital. She nervously flipped through an issue of Entertainment Weekly, but couldn’t. Jo wasn’t even impressed at the motorcycle movies coming out in the next month or so. Her mind was on her mother. Today was her surgery. The worst part of all this: Jo was 30 minutes early. The surgery was supposed to last an hour, at least. How would Jo keep from loosing her mind? She put the EW aside and stood. Just then, she remembered she had forgotten to take her medicine. Jo started to walk to nearest water fountain, purse on her shoulder, but Dr. Valdoni caught her eye. He was walking toward her.
“Want to spend time with your mother before she’s wheeled back into surgery?”
“Sure.”
“Alright. Follow me.”
***
“…And then what?”
“Dorothy, I’m not telling you anymore!”
“That good, huh?”
That night, Natalie found herself talking on the phone with Dorothy. She had just got comfortable, prepared to write a column, when her cell phone rang. It was Dorothy, wanting to know who the guy was she saw her friend eating with earlier. Natalie said he was just a coworker, and they just went to have lunch together. Nothing more or less. Dorothy didn’t buy it.
“As much as I love discussing my personal life with you,” Nat continued. “I have to get back to finishing up my column for the day after tomorrow.”
“Alright. Tell Brad I said hi. I’m sure you’ll ‘have lunch’ again.
Natalie rolled her eyes and hung up the phone. She tried to focus her full attention on the blank sheet of paper before her, but kept on thinking about Brad and wondering what he was doing right that second. Why do you care so much? Nat asked herself. She hated the answer that came from inside her: because you like him.
***
Jo drove home from the hospital. Her mother’s surgery was over. She would’ve liked to stay and talk to her, but Valdoni said she was still unconscious, thanks to the medicine they gave her. She said she’d be back tomorrow.
“Jo, that you?” Jake asked from the kitchen as his wife walked in the door.
“Yea.”
“How’s your mother?”
“Out of surgery. The doc said she got through it ok.”
“ That’s good.”
“I’m going back to see her tomorrow. I didn’t get a chance to tonight.”
Jo took of her coat and hung it in the closet. Then, went to the kitchen where Jake was standing at the stove, chopping a head of lettuce for a salad.
“You hungry?” he asked.
“No. I’m exhausted. I’m going to bed. Good night.”
“Good night.”
As Jo kissed her husband, her mind told her to take her medicine. She hadn’t all day. Tomorrow, she told herself. I’m too tired right now.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Excellent. I'm worried that Jo didn't take her medicine though.

[Shine]

Excellent. I'm worried that Jo didn't take her medicine though.

Me too.

[PlayOn]

No worries. I would never kill off Jo or anything. I hate death treats. lol. Anyway, I was looking at everything I wrote earlier and (((SPOILER!!!))) I can tell a lot of lighthearted stuff is to come. Especially between Nat and Tootie. Enjoy. :)

“Thanks.” Beverly Ann said, as her sister sat a plate of eggs, and bacon in front of her. She, then, took a sip of her coffee.
“You’re welcome. Need a refill?”
“No, thanks. I’m good. Where’s Bruce?”
“He took Leroy and the little girl across the street to school.”
“Jennifer?”
“Yea. She’s a doll.”
“She sure is. Leroy has it bad for her.”
“He does not.”
Beverly Ann started to eat a piece of bacon, but stopped, looking at her sister, who had sat down beside her.
“Edna,” she said. “The boy took her a box of chocolates, roses from your garden and a big teddy bear for Valentines Day.”
“What’s wrong with that?”
“Last week wasn’t Valentines Day. He just wanted to see her. Plus, I saw them almost kiss when I got back from the grocery store yesterday.”
“Leroy is 10 years old. He’s too young to think that way about girls.”
“Kids are growing up faster and faster these days.”
“I still think you’re wrong.”
“Alright. Ask him when he gets home.”
“I won’t. Because it’s none of my business and nothing is going on between them.”
“You keep telling yourself that.”
Just then, Beverly Ann’s cell phone made a noise.
“That’s my reminder. Time for me to take my medicine.”
***
“Ms. Green?” a man said from behind her. Natalie turned and saw Brad standing their. Her heart began beating faster. She ignored it, hard as it was. “I hope I’m not disturbing you.”
“Not at all. And, please. Call me Natalie. Ms. Green is my mother.”
“Well, Natalie, it’s about the computer. I can’t seem to access Microsoft Word. I tried to tell Mrs. Sanchez, but she’s out having lunch. Would you…?”
“Sure.” Natalie stood. “Lead the way.”
Brad walked to his cubical and sat down. Natalie typed a few keys on the keyboard and Microsoft Word popped up.
“Wow!” Brad replied, smiling.
“That computer is a piece of crap. I’ve told Mrs. Sanchez about it more than once. She said she’ll have it taken care of. That was a year ago.”
“Are you serious?”
“Yea. I finally gave up.”
“Well, thanks again.”
“No problem.” Natalie smiled and started to walk away. She was almost home free until…
“Natalie!”
Natalie stopped dead in her tracks, and turned to face him.
“Would you like to have lunch? I know this really great seafood restaurant just a few blocks away.”
“I already ate.” Natalie lied. She should’ve stopped there, but (being Natalie Green, she went on) besides, I’m vegan. Sorry.”
She went back to her desk, leaving a stunned Brad in her wake.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Great post...but I really want more! :) Post again soon please.

[RoryGilmore]

Excellent posts!

[PlayOn]

Thanks again. Enjoy this one. :) And thanks for 8 pages. Mindblowing.

Jo walked in her mother’s hospital room. Jerry was sitting beside her. Rose was awake and watching TV (Good Times) She turned off the TV.
“Hey, you.” she said.
“Hey. You ok?”
“Been better. You?”
“Same. Sorry I didn’t come see you yesterday. It’s just, Valdoni said you were asleep, so…”
“Don’t worry about it. I wasn’t up to talking anyway.”
“I’ll be outside.” Jerry said and tiptoed out of the room.
“That Jerry?”
“Yea. He’s really nice.”
“And cute.”
“Don’t even think about it!”
“What?”
“Hooking me up with him. We’re friends and that’s it.”
“That was the furthest thing from my mind.”
“Good. Besides, even if I was interested -which I’m not- he already has a girlfriend named Maria.”
“The same Maria that works with you at the diner?”
“Yea. They’ve been going together for a couple of years now. He’s thinking about proposing.”
“Great. Another promising romance ruined by marriage.”
“Jo!”
“What? It’s the truth.”
“Not all marriages are doomed to failure. Look at you and Jake. Match made in heaven.”
“I guess you’re right.” Jo smiled as she thought about her 1st and only husband. There’s only one thing that could make their life perfect though: a child.
***
“Mom!” Leroy called as he walked in the house. “Mom, you here?”
“In the kitchen.”
Leroy walked in the kitchen to find his mother and father sitting at the table, sitting and drinking coffee.
“Jennifer’s having a sleepover tonight,” Leroy explained. “Can I go?”
“What time is it?”
“I don’t know.”
“I call Mrs. Kelley and ask. But it shouldn’t be a problem.”
“Great! Thanks, mom.” Leroy hugged his mother and ran back outside.
“Has he got it bad for her.” Bruce replied with a smile.
“He does not! They are just friends.”
“Yea. If you say so.”
“I do. You and Beverly Ann are just alike. I swear, I think you two should be married.”
“Calm down. I was just kidding.”
“Well don’t. Leroy is too young to think that way about girls. He’s not ready.”
“He’s not, or you’re not?”
“I’m not!”
Silence filled the room. Both Edna and Bruce looked at each other in shock. She didn’t except that to come out of her mouth. When her Eastland girls met the men of their dreams, she didn’t have any problem with them, weather she knew them or not. Why was Leroy so different? Besides, she had known Jennifer Kelley ever since they moved to Wisconsin. Her family was here before she and Bruce were. Embarrassed, Edna got up from the table and walked out of the room.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Aww...Jo wants a baby. I hope she can have one. Since she already has osteoporosis and can't really work on her beat as a cop it would be a good time...osteo doesn't effect your abilty to have children, just means you have to be extra careful because it can make your bones ache more with the weight of pregnancy. Okay, see how passionate I am about the fact that she and Jake should become parents. :lol:

Funny how Mrs. G can't stand to see her little guy growing up. That was a great post!

[Shine]

Great posts, Brandon. :) Having Jo want a baby kind of connects this story to Billie's. :)

[PlayOn]

I think ya'll are trying to tell me something. Especially you Billie. lol. I'll take Jo's pregnancy deep into consideration. No promises.
This may be my last post for a few days. I'm going to Kentucky tomorrow and would like to spend to spend time with family and friends.. But I'll be back the following weekend. Plus, I have writers block. :mad: Anyways, enjoy. :)
***
Days later, Dorothy walked in the Peekskill Playhouse. As she entered, a rush of memories ran over her. She hadn’t set foot inside here since Trey died. She couldn’t stay at home and listen to the silence any longer. She had to get back on the stage. She could feel it calling her. A few days ago, she read an ad in the Peekskill Press that the Playhouse was holding auditions for one of Dorothy’s favorite plays and movies: The Sound of Music. She wanted to play the lead (Maria Rainer).
As she sat in the audition room, she suddenly became of aware of the numerous women up for the same part: Caucasian, young and skinny. Dorothy was African American, over 30 and was starting to show. There’s no way I’m going to get Maria, she thought to herself. She stood to leave, but…
“Dorothy Ramsey-Wilson?” a woman’s voice said.
Dorothy stopped dead in her tracks. She turned and saw an elderly lady standing on stage, clip board in hand.
“You’re up.” The woman finished and went to set down in front of the stage between a man and another woman.
Well, Dorothy thought. Here goes nothing.
***
“So, did you get it?” asked Natalie.
“No.”
“Oh, that’s too bad.”
Dorothy and Natalie were talking on the phone later that night. Dorothy didn’t get the part. Some blond with legs that went on for miles did. She even wasn’t that good! Dorothy said to herself as soon as she heard the news. She messed up the song ‘Getting to know you’ and called it ‘Going to throw you.’ Oh, well. She was over it.
“So, how’s Brad?” Dorothy asked, trying to change the subject.
“Oh, no. Not this again. For the last time we are not going out.”
“Why not, Nat? That guy is too cute.”
“He’s cute, sure. But I’m married to my work right now.”
“Your work can’t keep you warm at night.”
“Yes, it can. I just bought this comfortable mattress a few days ago. I’ve slept like a baby ever since. I couldn‘t have done that without my paycheck.”
“You know what I mean. Nat, you and Kyle have been divorced for a couple of years. You’re still young. It’s time to get back on the saddle.”
“I’ve got saddle soars.”
“Nat…”
“Mom,” Britney said, walking up beside her. “Could you help me with my homework?” Natalie silently thanked God for this. She had a liable excuse to hang up with her friend without it seeming like she was trying to dodge her, which would only whet Dorothy for more questions about her and Brad.
“Sure. Dorothy, Britney needs my help. I’ll call you tomorrow.”
“But…”
“Bye, Dorothy.”
She hung up and focused on her daughter.
“What do you need?”
“Math help.”
“Let’s get started.”
***

See y'all soon. :wave:

[ZeldaGilroy]

Have fun in Kentucky! I'll miss your story, but I know you need time with your loved ones. Enjoy VBS!

[ZeldaGilroy]

Oh yeah...I forgot to add that your last post was great. And yes, I have the personal belief that Jo should be pregnant in all fanfics. :lol:

[PlayOn]

Leigh told me you felt that way. lol. We'll see, though. And thanks for the well wishes and kind words. ;)

[Shine]

Great post, Brandon. :) I hope that you enjoy your vacation. :)

[Shine]

Leigh told me you felt that way. lol. We'll see, though. And thanks for the well wishes and kind words. ;)

I can promise you Brandon that none of the girls will ever become pregnant in one of my stories. :lol:

[ZeldaGilroy]

I can promise you Brandon that none of the girls will ever become pregnant in one of my stories. :lol:
Why not??? :rofl:

[Shine]

Why not??? :rofl:

Well, except for seeing my mom pregnant with my sister 26 yesrs ago, I don't have a great deal of personal experience with pregnancy. I noticed that when my mom was pregnant that she ate a lot, but I never really actually connected that with her pregnancy until years later. I'm sure she had morning sickness, but I would have been at school. The fact is that I know more about what a woman goes through when she is having a baby from reading your story than I ever did previously.

[PlayOn]

I don't know anything about pregnancy either, Mike. I just make them pregnant and (from what I learn from TV) make the girls go through that. Anway, I'm not leaving for KY until a little after 4:30 and as I post this it's almost 1:00, so I'm going to post. Enjoy. :)

The next day, Edna sat in the living room, watching her favorite show: ‘Days Of Our Lives.’ A few years ago, she swore up and down she would never watch something this ridiculous, but curiosity got the better of her and now she was addicted.
“Mom,” Leroy said as he walked in, book bag swung over his shoulder.
“Hey, sweetie.”
“Could I have 20 dollars?”
“Why?”
“Jennifer’s mom is taking us to the movies. We’re going to see ‘Up!’ “
“Uh, Leroy. Sit down.” Leroy did as he was told. Edna turned off the TV and faced her son. “I think you’re spending too much with Jennifer. Are there any boys at school you can hang out with?”
“Yea, but they’re all stupid. They make stupid jokes and all they care about is video games.”
“But you like video games.”
“Yea, but I don’t center my life around them like they do. With Jennifer, I can actually have a conversation.”
“What do you guys talk about?”
“Anything. Music, movies, books. At lunch today, we talked about God. Look, the movie starts in 15 minutes. Can I have the money?”
“No.”
“But…”
“I said no, Leroy. I don’t like you spending so much time with her.”
“Where is this coming from?” Leroy almost shouted, standing. “I thought you liked Jennifer.”
“And I do. I just don’t like you two spending too much time together.”
“Why? Afraid we’ll have sex?”
“No.”
“Then spill, mom. Why can’t me and Jennifer spend time together.”
“I didn’t say you couldn’t. I said not too much time together.”
“This is ridiculous! I’m going. I’ll just tell her mom that you’re not home. She’ll spring for my ticket and I’ll pay her back with my allowance.”
“I’ll take your allowance away if you talk to me like that again!”
Leroy glared at his mother and stormed out of the house. Edna sighed heavily and leaned her head back.
***

After saying it was ok, Jo walked in her hospital room. Rose was dressed, sitting on the side of her bed. Today was the day she was going to be released.
“You ready?” asked Jo.
“Am I?! If I eat one more ‘meal’ here, I’m going to loose my mind.”
“Alright. Let’s get going.”
Jo picked up her mother’s bags and walked out of the room, Rose hot on her heels.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Poor Mrs. G...Leroy is becoming quite the rebel. :lol: I feel bad for her...it is hard to watch your kids grow up.

Great post! I am going to miss the story while you're gone to Kentucky. Have fun and hurry back! :)

[PlayOn]

No post, just updating my status. I'm doing great. We had a VBS Kickoff Carnival Saturday night. Regular VBS starts tonight. Can't wait. Hopefully, some kids will get to know Jesus and take everything they're taught to heart.
Posting will begin soon. Can't promise anything this week. Stupid me brought laptop but not the charger. Figures tho.
Thanks for all the encouragement. God bless and enjoy the rest of your summer.
:)

[ZeldaGilroy]

Glad to hear things are going well in Kentucky Brandon. I am praying that a lot of kids are led to the Lord at your VBS. Have fun!

[Shine]

I'm glad to hear that you are having a great time, Brandon. :)

[PlayOn]

Thanks. :) I do have some updates (on life. not my story) I over heard last nite that a friend of mine thinks our chuch burnt down because God wanted to put us in the church we're in now. The church we're at now is located in the rough part of town. Kids need to find out somebody loves them. If this is God's plan, it's humbling. Sad that kids are being hurt like that, but humbling at the same time, you know?
And my mom is coming on Friday. Don't know when we're leaving. Either Saturday or Sunday.
God bless you guys. Thanks for reading and more is to come.

[ZeldaGilroy]

Thanks. :) I do have some updates (on life. not my story) I over heard last nite that a friend of mine thinks our chuch burnt down because God wanted to put us in the church we're in now. The church we're at now is located in the rough part of town. Kids need to find out somebody loves them. If this is God's plan, it's humbling. Sad that kids are being hurt like that, but humbling at the same time, you know?
And my mom is coming on Friday. Don't know when we're leaving. Either Saturday or Sunday.
God bless you guys. Thanks for reading and more is to come.
I think it is great that you are reaching out to kids in a rough neighborhood. Maybe that was God's plan all along! God Bless you and your church family for doing all you can to lead these kids to Christ!

Have a safe trip home. :)

[Shine]

:wave:

[PlayOn]

Thanks. My mom arrived yesterday (Friday) and we're leaving tomorrow (Sunday) so I may post then. No promises. But Monday for sure.
And, Billie, I'm a firm believer in everything happens for a reason. The first time I heard her say that, it has stuck with me ever since. I truly believe that was His plan for us all along. God doesn't allow things to happen for the heck of it. Please remember that when any of you are going through a rough time.
God bless and thanks again for reading and the support. Y'all mean more to me than you'll ever know. :)
-Brandon

[ZeldaGilroy]

Thanks. My mom arrived yesterday (Friday) and we're leaving tomorrow (Sunday) so I may post then. No promises. But Monday for sure.
And, Billie, I'm a firm believer in everything happens for a reason. The first time I heard her say that, it has stuck with me ever since. I truly believe that was His plan for us all along. God doesn't allow things to happen for the heck of it. Please remember that when any of you are going through a rough time.
God bless and thanks again for reading and the support. Y'all mean more to me than you'll ever know. :)
-Brandon
Have a safe trip home Brandon! Can't wait to read your next post. :)

[PlayOn]

I'm in TN. Yay! I'm here for a few more weeks before I go back on Aug. 12th. Anyway, shutting up and posting. Enjoy. :)

Dorothy hovered over the toilet, her lunch and breakfast making a triumphant return. Her morning sickness started yesterday, of course at the worst of times: when she was auditioning for another play. This time, for ‘The Wizard of Oz’ as Glenda. Right in the middle of welcoming Dorothy Gale to Munchkin Land, she felt it in her stomach. She excused herself and ran off stage, leaving the judges stunned. Later, Dorothy Ramsey-Wilson explained her situation and apologized. Everybody understood and thought she did a great job, but they couldn’t hire her. What if she did the same thing on opening night? What if she went into labor?
What am I going to do? Dorothy asked herself now, leaning her head against the wall. Trey brought home the pay check while Dorothy stayed at home. The only time she got paid was when she did plays. She couldn’t even do that. She blew two auditions already. One because she was middle aged and pregnant and the same goes for the 2nd (only the middle aged part didn’t matter as much).
Oh, no! she thought and leaned back over the toilet.
***
“Jake, this burger is delicious!” Rose exclaimed after she took a bite of the burger.
“Thanks, Ms. P.”
Rose was going to stay with Jo and Jake for a few days until she was comfortable enough to go back to The Bronx. She didn’t want to be alone. Any former addict knows that being alone makes the temptation stronger.
“You want any more to drink, Ma?” asked Jo.
“I’ll get it.”
“But…”
Too late. Rose was in the kitchen. She opened the fridge to take out the Coke and found it. She also saw the vodka bottle right in front of it.
“Sorry.” Jo said from behind her. She took the bottle out of the fridge. “I’ll throw it out now. I started to earlier, but forgot all about it.”
“That’s alright. I don’t want you to stop living your life because I made a stupid mistake. You go ahead and keep it.”
“No. With you being here…”
“Jo, I’m fine. I promise. It’s not like I’m going to see booze and loose all control.”
“I know, but…”
“But nothing.” Rose gave her daughter a reassuring wink and reached for the Coke. After pouring herself another glass, she walked out of the kitchen. Jo opened the vodka bottle and poured what remained down the drain. She, then, went outside to throw it in the trash can so the garbage man could pick it up tomorrow.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

That was excellent Brandon! Poor Tootie, horrible morning sickness and the stress of no job and income to take care of herself and the baby. Not to mention dealing with her grief over Trey's death. I feel so awful for her. :(

I'm also glad Jo dumped the vodka. They do not need any alcohol around while Rose is there.

So glad you made it home safely! Can't wait for you to post again.

[Shine]

Great job, Brandon. I think this may have been your best post yet. :)

[PlayOn]

This is a long post because not only am I posting 'SM' I'm also giving you a preview on my new FOL fanfic 'An Eastland Punk's Christmas Carol' to debut in November. Of course, your thoughts are welcome on both. :)
Enjoy.

“Edna! Edna, wake up. Leroy isn’t here. Edna!”
Bruce shook his wife awake the next moring. The reveal that her son was missing made her shoot right up.
“What?!” She asked, eyes wide. “Where is he?”
“I don’t know. I went to his room to tell him to start getting ready for school and he wasn’t in his bed.”
“Did you check the bathroom?”
“I checked everywhere. The bathroom, the kitchen. Even the laundry room and basement.”
“Oh, no. What have I done?”
“It’s not your fault.”
“Yes, it is. He came home yesterday after school wanting to go to the movies with Jennifer. I told him he couldn’t. We had an argument he and stormed out of the house. He said he was going to the moves with Jennifer anyway.”
“But he came home last night.”
“Yes, but he was still angry. He probably ran away.”
“I’ll call the Kelley’s.”
As Bruce walked out of the room, Edna couldn’t believe what was going on. Why is that girl so important to him? She thought. Maybe they do love each other. That’s crazy. They were just 10. They didn’t know what real love was.
Hoping to take her mind off of things, Edna got out of bed and went to the kitchen to make breakfast.
Bruce was on the phone. Edna opened the fridge and got out eggs, bacon and milk. She then opened the bottom of the oven and got out two skillets. Then opened a cabinet to get out a bowl.
“OK.” Bruce said. “Thank you.” He hung up. “That was Mr. Kelley. They found Leroy this morning asleep in Jennifer’s tree house. He’s coming right over.”
“Asleep in her tree house? Good Lord, what is that boy thinking?”
“Maybe if you support him, he wouldn’t run off like that.”
“Oh, so this my fault?”
“Well, he was upset because you told him he couldn’t see Jennifer again. You know how much she means to him.”
“I didn’t say they couldn’t see each other ever. Why does everybody assume that?! I said he didn’t need to spend so much time with her. And that’s for his own benefit. What if they start taking their relationship to the next level soon? I don't want to be a grandmother when my son is 13!”
“You’re blowing things out of proportion!”
“What’s going on?” asked Beverly Ann as she walked in the room. She was still in her pajamas and half asleep.
“Leroy slept over at Jennifer’s last night.” Edna explained.
“In the tree house.” Bruce continued.
“What?”
“He’s on his way home right now.” Edna was so mad, she cracked too many eggs and some of the egg shells were in the bowl. She walked to the living room, just in time to see Leroy walk in. “You have a lot of explaining to do, mister! Why did you sneak out last night?”
“And most importantly, why did you go to Jennifer’s?” Bruce and Beverly Ann had walked in the room to.
“You wouldn’t understand.” Leroy said.
“Try us.” Edna said.
“I’m late for school.”
“Son,” Bruce spoke up. “You’re not leaving this house or this room until you tell us why you snuck out last night and went across the street.”
“I was afraid you wouldn’t let me see Jennifer again.”
“Why?” asked Edna. “Because you like her as more than a friend?”
“No! I do, but that’s not the reason. She’s black, just like me. Mom, do you remember when I told you the reason I didn’t hangout with other boys at school was because they made stupid jokes and talked about video games.”
“Yea.”
“Well, I didn’t tell you what stupid things they said. They make jokes about my skin color. It’s hard being one of the few black people in school. My first day their, a noose was hung outside my locker. I wanted to come home and tell you I didn’t want to come back. But then, I met Jennifer. Being black just like me, she understood. Something nobody in this family understands.”
“Leroy…”
“Let me finish!” Tears were in the little boys eyes as he continued to speak. “Whenever I’m around Jennifer, no matter how my hard my day is, she makes everything OK. She makes me want to go to school. Did you ever know anybody like that?”
“Yea,” Edna sobbed. “I did. And do. We all do. But you can’t run away to her just because she makes everything better. You have to stand up for yourself sometimes.”
“Your mother’s right.” Bruce replied. “As scary as it is, you have to stand up for yourself. You can’t run away because then, you’ll be running to her for every problem and Jennifer won’t always be their.”
“You’re right. I’m sorry I ran away.”
“It’s ok. Just don’t do it again. You had your father and I worried sick. Go on up to your room.”
“Am I going to school?”
“I’ll think about it. Now, go on up. Your father and I will be up in a minute.”
“OK. I’m sorry again.”
“What am I going to talk to him about?” asked Bruce after their son had walked up the stairs.
“His punishment. I’m thinking grounded for a week. No video games.”
“Sounds good to me. I thought you were going to make me talk to him about sex.”
“That’s for when he’s 12.”
***

An Eastland Punk's Christmas Carol.

“Blair,” Tootie Ramsey said as she walked in the bedroom. Blair, Natalie and Jo were laying on their beds. Blair was studying. Natalie was listening to Bruce Springsteen on a Walk-Man and Jo was flipping through a bike magazine. “I need to know what you want for Christmas. Mrs. Garrett is taking me shopping in a few minutes.”
“OK.” Blair got up, opened her bedside table drawer, and took out a magazine. She handed it to her friend and went back to studying. Tootie flipped through it and couldn’t believe her eyes.
“Blair, almost everything in here is circled.”
“Not everything. Just the most expensive and sparkly.” Then, she smiled. “I just had another one of my brilliant ideas! If Jo doesn’t tell you what she wants, you can look at the stuff I didn’t circle. Trust me, they’ll suit her just fine.”
***

NOTE: Sorry if I made Edna and Bruce too harsh against Leroy in the post. I couldn't think of anything better.

[ZeldaGilroy]

That was an excellent post Brandon and I don't think they were too harsh at all. I also loved you preview for the story coming in November. I love Christmas stories so I can't wait! :)

[PlayOn]

Sorry no post yesterday. I've got a lot written for 'An Eastland Punk's Christmas Carol' and I'm so stoaked about it that I may debut it after 'SM' is done and who know when that will be. So I'm trying to post less in case I get SM done in September or October. Temptation will be less. Anyway, enjoy this.
***
“Oh, Dorothy.” Natalie exclaimed. “That’s horrible.”
“It was. It looks like I’m never going to work in this town -or any for that matter- again.”
“Now, now drama queen, you will. It will just take awhile.”
“It looks like I’m going to have to get a real 9 to 5 job. I’m going to start looking today.”
“Good luck. Don’t look to hard, though. Remember how you said you’d take Mrs. G up on the offer of taking Leroy for a while.”
“Oh, right. I forgot about that. Maybe I could take him now. Can I call you back.”
“Yea, I have to get back to work anyway.”
“Alright. Bye.”
“Bye.”
They hang up. Natalie went back to writing her column. She was outside of a café, eating a chicken salad and writing her column for tomorrow. She was really on a roll when…
“Hey, Natalie,” Brad walked up to her. “I was just wondering if I…” suddenly, his eyes shot to plate of chicken salad beside her. “I thought you were a vegan.”
“Um…” Natalie looked up, eyes fully on the plate and trying to think of an excuse. Nothing. She was caught red handed.
“You know,” Brad continued. “If you didn’t want to go out with me, you didn’t have to lie.”
“Brad, I…”
But Brad had already walked to his car. He climbed in and drove off. Natalie felt horrible.
***
Dorothy looked through the want ads. She called Mrs. Garrett, but Leroy was grounded and couldn’t come to stay with her but said she’d call back when he could. Their was nothing she saw that interested her. And what she was, she it was too hazardous on Trey, Jr. She tossed the news paper aside and sighed heavily.
“God,” she said aloud, closing her eyes. “I need You now more than ever. Please send a job my way.”
***
“Hey, Brad.” Natalie said nervously as she walked to his desk the next morning. Brad ignored her and kept his attention his work. “Look, I’m sorry I lied to you. That was wrong of me. It’s just that, I’m not ready to be in a relationship yet.”
“Good excuse.”
“Brad…”
“No.” Brad exclaimed and turned to her. “Just because I want to take you out doesn’t mean I want to jump into bed with you. I mean, can’t a man and woman go out on the town without it being sexual?”
“Sure, but…”
“What?”
“The thing is, I do like you more than just as a friend and coworker. And that scares me. I went through a nasty divorce a few years ago. And although I know all guys aren’t pigs like Kyle was, it still scares me.”
“Nat, you can’t hang on to fearing what some guy will do to you. That will make you miserable. If you keep your eyes closed, you’ll miss something good when it passes you.”
“And you’re that good thing?”
“I would like to be.”
“I thought you just liked me as a friend.”
“What? You can lie and I can’t?”
Brad smiled. Natalie laughed.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Great post Brandon. I love the chemistry between Natalie and Brad. I think they are a great couple. I also hope Tootie can get a safe, reliable job. Excellent work as usual. I am looking forward to more.

[Shine]

Keep up the great work, Brandon. :)

[LoveMrsG]

Hi all. :)
I just got off the phone with Brandon and he wanted me to tell all of you why he hasn't been on SO lately. His computer crashed and he's not sure if he'll be able to get his computer fixed or if he'll be able to get a new one any time soon or not. I feel sooooo bad for him because he told me he could lose four of his stories he's been working on. :( I certainly understand how frustrating this is for him because I've lost several of my own stories in the past too. But anyway, that's why he hasn't been online in a while and unfortunately it could be a while before he's able to return. I know we'll all keep him in our thoughts and prayers until then.

[ZeldaGilroy]

Oh no...poor Brandon! I know it sucks to lose stories you've poured your heart and soul into. He must be crushed. :(I hope he will be back online very soon. This place isn't the same without him.

[PlayOn]

Hey, fellow FOLers. I'm back in Paducah and sadly my laptop still isn't working right. :( Hopefully, tho, it'll get fixed soon. My cousin got a new computer so that's a HUGE blessing.
Anyway, just wanted to let you know that I'm back. I may still type the story, but not right now.
Thanks for understanding, the prayers and reading.
-God bless.
:)

[ZeldaGilroy]

Welcome back Brandon. You have been missed around here. I hope you will be able to write and post soon. Sorry about your laptop...the same thing happened to me last summer, so I know how it feels to lose the stories you have been working on and start again from scratch. :(

Glad to have you back though, even if you are not posting on your fic. And I hope you are enjoying being back in Paducah.

[PlayOn]

Welcome back Brandon. You have been missed around here. I hope you will be able to write and post soon. Sorry about your laptop...the same thing happened to me last summer, so I know how it feels to lose the stories you have been working on and start again from scratch. :(

Glad to have you back though, even if you are not posting on your fic. And I hope you are enjoying being back in Paducah.

Thanks. :) It's good to be back. I'm going to post what I remember, but after that, I'm going to stop and wait until my laptop gets fixed (if it does). I may post this weekend if not earlier.
Sorry about your laptop. What did you have to wind up doing, if you don't mind me asking.

[ZeldaGilroy]

Sorry about your laptop. What did you have to wind up doing, if you don't mind me asking.
I took it in to be repaired and they said it was the motherboard and it would cost more to fix it than it would to get a new computer. I lost everything. :( Most of my fanfic was saved on a flashdrive, but all my new stuff was gone. I had to retype it on my desktop. Finally I was able to get a new laptop and now I make sure to save everything to my flashdrive so I cannot lose it if my computer crashes.

I hope yours can be fixed!!!

[PlayOn]

I took it in to be repaired and they said it was the motherboard and it would cost more to fix it than it would to get a new computer. I lost everything. :( Most of my fanfic was saved on a flashdrive, but all my new stuff was gone. I had to retype it on my desktop. Finally I was able to get a new laptop and now I make sure to save everything to my flashdrive so I cannot lose it if my computer crashes.

I hope yours can be fixed!!!

Thanks. :) You and me both. :lol: I'm going to invest in flashdrives. Safer. lol.
As far as the fanfic, I'm going to post. I started to do it this weekend, but I need to spend time with my aunt, Granny and everybody else so here goes.

Natalie Green held the simple black dress against her frame.
"Ew." She exclaimed. "I look like The Blob going out on the town. Where's Blair?!"
Just then, a knocked sounded on the door.
"Come in." Nat acknowledged.
"Sorry I'm so late," replied Blair. "I had a doctor's appointment. My appointment was at 4. Of course, I was called back a little after 5."
"You're here and that's the important thing. My dresses are on the bed."
Blair walked to Nat's bedroom that adjoined the bathroom. A stack of dresses was on the end of the bed. Blair picked up the top one. Pink with sequence.
"This one." She said, holding it up.
"Are you sure?" asked Nat, a 'have you lost your mind?' look on her face.
"Sure. With the right makeup, Brad won't be table to take his eyes off of you all night."
"You know, not taking your eyes off of somebody can also be taken as an insult."
"Do you want my help or don't you?"
"Alright. Fine. Give it."
Blair handed Natalie the dress.
"You seem different, Blair." Nat said, looking at her friend. "Are you alright?"
"Yea. The doctor just started me on some new medicine."
"Great. Just when I need you most, you're medicated."
***

"Your order." The waiter said, setting plates infront of Natalie and Brad.
"This is great." Natalie acknowledged, chewing her lobster.
"Sure is. Great call finding this place."
"Blair's idea."
"Thank her for me."
"I'm hoping you and my friends will meet soon. You'll love them."
"I'm sure I will."
Just then, he fell silent.
"Something on your mind?" asked Nat.
"Kinda. Have you told Britney about us?"
"No. But..."
"Great!"
"What?"
"What do you say we tell her tonight?"
"Tonight?"
"Yea. You were going to tell her anyway. Why not tell her together."
"That sounds..." Natalie started. She going to end with 'great', but she already started their relationship with one lie already (saying she was a vegan). She couldn't tell him another one. "Horrible."
"What? Why?"
"You know how teenagers are. One of their divorced parents starts dating, they'll think marriage is the next step.
"How did she handle her dad's marriage to Lucy?"
"Pretty well."
"Well, then. Why should she react any different to us?"
"I guess you're right."
"So, we'll tell her?"
"We'll tell her."
"Great!" Brad smiled.
Natalie smiled back. But it didn't last long. She couldn't ignore the feeling in her stomach that the news wasn't going to go over well at all.
***

More soon.

[Shine]

Great job, Brandon. :)

[ZeldaGilroy]

Excellent post Brandon! I have really missed this story. :)

[PlayOn]

Thanks. :) Like I said, more soon. Tomorrow or Friday.

[PlayOn]

Well, it's Friday. Post day. Enjoy. :)
***

After they left the theater, Brad drove Natalie home. The entire way, she was worrying about how Britney would react to the news of her mothers new relationship. She prayed with everything in her that her daughter didn't overreact. They pulled up in the dirveway. No lights were on.
"Maybe she's asleep." Natalie said, hoping Brad would agree and want to go home.
"Maybe. But we'd better make sure."
***

"Britney." Natalie called as she opened the door. No reply. Thank You, God.
"Well, it looks like she's in bed. Better luck tomorrow."
"Nat, I can't help but have the feeling you want to get rid of me."
"No. Don't be silly. It's just I don't want to wake Britney up."
"Alright. Don't let her go anywhere tomorrow after school. I'm coming by when I pick you up to go to the movies and we're going to tell her. That OK?"
"Yea." replied Nat. She didn't sound so sure.
"Alright. Love you."
"Love you, too."
Brad leaned in to kiss her and walked out of the door. Natalie turned to the stairs that were facing the door and saw Britney standing at the top of the them. She had seen the hole thing.
"Britney." Was all Nat could say. And then: "I was going to to tell you."
"When? 5 seconds before you were going to walk down the alise?"
"Brit..."
"Save it!"
With a furious look on her face, the teenager stormed to her room, slamming the door behind her. Natalie sighed heavily. This was going to be a long night.
***
No more posts until I can get my laptop fixed (if I can). I have no idea what I have next.

[ZeldaGilroy]

That was great and I am really anxious to see how things turn out with Natalie and Britney. I hope you can get you laptop fixed soon. I am hoping it is something simple that they can fix and it won't cost a fortune.

[PlayOn]

That was great and I am really anxious to see how things turn out with Natalie and Britney. I hope you can get you laptop fixed soon. I am hoping it is something simple that they can fix and it won't cost a fortune.

Thanks. :) And you and me both. lol. I think I know what I have for the next part, but I don't to screw it up if I'm wrong, you know?
Anyway, more (hopefully) soon.

[Shine]

Keep up the great work, Brandon! :)

[PlayOn]

wow, 'sm' is old. lol. i hope y'all haven't forgotten about this story, because I AM going to start posting again VERY SOON. within the next couple of hours, maybe. i'll have a lot of time now. we moved back to my home town of clinton, kentucky Christmas week and both my little cousins (whom I babysit) are starting a new school on monday. they'll go all day. lily, the youngest, is in headstart/preschool. she was going for half a day in Paducah, but her new school is making her go all day. i'll have a lot more free time. :) anyway, like i said, i'll post again, very soon. maybe even today
i hope you still care. lol.

[PlayOn]

Britney flopped herself on her unmade bed and buried her face in her star-shaped pillow. How could Mom do this to me? she thought. Date some guy I didn't even know about until just now? Lord knows how long this has been going on.
Just then, there was a knock on the other side of the door; followed by her mother, Natalie's, voice: "Brit, open up. I want to talk."
"Go away."
"Let me explain. Please."
"That kiss was explaination enough."
"Britney, I know you're upset and I'm so sorry you found out this way, but we were going to tell you tonight. Honestly. But, we thought you were asleep so we decided to wait until tomorrow."
Britney let that sink in for a moment. Her mother sounded sincere. Sighing heavily, the girl got off the bed and opened the door.
"How long?" asked Britney, an evil look in her eyes.
"A few weeks."
"Weeks?!"
"But we just started getting serious."
"Is he still here?"
"Yeah. He waited downstairs in case you wanted to talk to him."
"Well, I don't. Good night."
And once again, Natalie was facing the door again.
***

The next day, Dorothy looked at herself in the full lenght bathroom mirror. She was dressed for success...and she had to be. This was her first job interview in a long time. It was at the Peekskill Playhouse as an announcer (one who tells the audience to take their seats and announce the actors at the end of every play). She also had to announce intermissions and if a car alarm was going off in the parking lot.
Dorothy found out about this job via an ad on the a magaine published by the Peekskill Playhouse (fitting entitled The Playhouse Times). Dorothy couldn't believe her eyes. She could work on one of the most sacred grounds ever, to her anyway. And the job was like an actress except she wasn't seen. Better than nothing, right?
When she saw the ad, she jerked the phone up and dialed. The Playhouse operator knew her well. Every play she was in their sold out. The job was as good as hers, the man said, but she still had to be interviewed like everybody else.
She put on lipstick and rubbed her lips together.
"Go get 'em, girl."
***
Hop u enjoyed this entry and have a Happy New Year. :)

[RoryGilmore]

Wow I'm gonna have to go have a refesher course here! Great post though I cant wait to see what you come up with next.

As far as your new display pic I have one phrase for you:

Boooooo!!!!!! Go Dawgs! Salukis is where its at!!! :D

[fol_fan1989]

I really like this story; great job. Looking forward to reading more!

[PlayOn]

Thanks, guys. :)
Jo/Blair Fan: U keep telling yourself that. lol. ;)
More soon. I'm not feeling the best now (tis the season) and want to be at my best whenever I write. But, I WILL post.

[PlayOn]

I'm not all that better yet, but I'm posting anyway before I lose the feel of the story. Enjoy. :)

Natalie walked in The Peekskill Press and to her desk. She didn't get any sleep last night. Brad left right after Natalie came back downstairs from her 'talk' with Britney.
"Didn't she give you a reason why she's so against you having a relationship, but says nothing about Kyle and Lucy?"
"No. But she didn't give me the chance to ask either."
Natalie vowed to ask her the following morning, but she feel asleep so late, she didn't wake up until after Britney left for school. Tonight, though.
***

Dorothy walked in The Peekskill Playhouse lobby, full with nothing but hope (and nervous gas, but that could just be Trey, Jr.)
"Dorothy!" Jim Wesson exclaimed as she walked in. Jim was a very dear friend of Dorothy's and admired her work. He was their for her first (and last) show.
"Jim, how are you?"
"Very well. How's the baby?"
"Doing good. But I can't wait until it's over."
"Yea. And then you'll be wanting it back in you."
"I'm sure I will," Dorothy chuckled. "I'm here for the interview."
"Oh, right. Mr. Cox is seeing another person interested in the same position you are; but why don't you sit down?"
Then, Dorothy heard something from behind one of the theater doors. Music. Singing.
"May I?" asked Dorothy, turning her gaze from the doors to Jim.
"Help yourself. It's a rehersal for 'The Wizard of Oz'. You should've got the part of Glenda."
"Thanks, but Trey, Jr. had other things in mind. Excuse me."
Dorothy walked to the door the noise was coming from and opened it. The scene was when Glenda was welcoming Dorothy Gale to Munchkin Land (it's also the scene Dorothy Ramsey got morning sickness and ran off stage during auditions). Tears filled her eyes. She couldn't wait to get back on that stage again.
***

"How did the doctors appointment go?" asked Rose, who was sitting at the kitchen table as Jo walked in from the chilly afternoon.
"Good. The doctor said everything seems to be order. I need to continue to take my meds and rest. By the way, thanks for taking care of the house, Ma."
"Think nothing if it. Nothing is more important to me than your health. Plus, it takes my mind off... things." Both she and Jo knew what 'things' meant. Rose changed the subject. "I'm about to go to the market. What do you want for supper?"
"Market? Ma, nobody has said that since the '60s."
"So I'm old fashioned. You can't teach an old dogs new tricks."
"I don't care what we eat. I'll call Jake and see if he has any ideas."
"K. I'll start getting ready."
***

[RoryGilmore]

Great job!

So I was in Paducah Mall yesterday and saw Kentucky Korner and ran away, That Royal Blue needs a dose of Saluki Maroon

[PlayOn]

shouldn't that tell you maroon isn't a popular color...especially in big BLUE nation. hehe. ;)

[RoryGilmore]

Step across the line to Illinois, where people bleed Saluki Maroon ;)

[ZeldaGilroy]

Nice to see you posting again. :)

[PlayOn]

Nice to see you posting again. :)

Thanks Billie. :) Happy be-lated birthday, btw. As a present, maybe I should post more? lol. I will in minute.

[ZeldaGilroy]

Thanks Billie. :) Happy be-lated birthday, btw. As a present, maybe I should post more? lol. I will in minute.
Thanks Brandon! And yes, please post more. :)

[PlayOn]

Sorry no post yesterday. A lot of craziness went down. Now, the real reason why you clicked on this. Lol.

Edna stood at the stove, stiring that nights supper, when she a door slam from the living room. Seconds later, Leroy walked in the kitchen.
"What's the matter?" his mother asked, putting the lid on the skillet and turning to face him.
"You know. How could you?!"
"Leroy, I kept my mouth shut about you slamming the door, but I'll be danged if I'm going to let you talk to me like that!"
"Jennifer's moving away. Next week."
"Oh, Leroy. I'm so sorry. But why are you blaming me?"
"Remember when you told me we were spending too much time together?"
"Yea."
"Well, apparently, het parents agree with you and that's why they're moving. I hope you're happy."
And with a deathly star, he walked to his room, slamming the door in Edna's wake.
***

Rose looked at the shopping list. She was almost done. They decided to have pizza tonight, Roses' specialty. But not only did she gave to get the ingredients for that, but also other food, drinks, ect.
Next on the list: Extra virgin olive oil
Rose turned the cart and looked up and down both sides of the isle. Found it. She also found something else: a bottle of Jack Daniel's. Somebody mudt've changed their minds and didn't bother to put it back. Rose was thrown off guard. Any normal person would ignore it and move on to the list. Not her. She wanted it. She didn't dare tell Jo this, but Rose had sleepless nights because her cravings for booze was so strong. She went to AA meetings and found out that withdrawal was very common among addicts if any kind. She was also under stress, trying to get out of Jo's and Jake's hair and finding her own place. She didn't dare go back to her old apartment. Too many memories their, another thing that may bring a person back to their old habits.
'Step away, Rose', she told herself. 'You're better than this.' But her feet wouldn't move.
***

I didn't mean to leave it their, but my battery is low and I can't find my charger anywhere. More tomorrow... hopefully. Lol.

[PlayOn]

Found my charger. Yay! Here's more.

She heard a child laughing from her and she turned her head. A mom was deciding what seasoning to buy while a dad played with his daughter, whom was in the cart. The man looked so much like Charlie, her departed ex-husband. And the girl looked like Jo when she was that age. Tears came to Roses eyes. Jo. Her daughter daughter alone was enought reason to step away from the whiskey. With deep breaths, she did just that and went to find the next item on the list.
***

"Dorothy, that's fantastic!" Natalie explained as she walked in her house.
"Thanks. I am too."
The women were talking on the phone about the days events. Dorothy got the announcers job and Natalie was the first one she called.
"So, when do you start?" asked Nat.
"Tomorrow night. I can't wait!"
"I bet." Nat hung up her coat and hat on the hook. "I'll make it if I can."
"Will you bring Brad?"
"What is this obsession you have over my...mater of fact, EVERYBODIES relationships. Sometimes, I think you're friends with us on Facebook just for that reason."
"I was just asking. You 2 on the outs?"
"No. Sorry I blew up at you. I'm just really nervous about asking Britney why she doesn't like Brad and I together."
"Oh. I understand. Is she home yet?"
"No. But she will be in a minute."
"Well, good luck. I got to go look over my lines for tomorrow. Oh, I love saying that."
"Alright. Break a leg...or spring your voice. Whatever they say to people in your position."
"Thanks."
After they hung up, Natalie sat on the couch. And as soon she did, the door opened and Britney walked in the room.
"Hey, Mom. I got a lot of homework, so I'll be in my room."
"Wait, Brit. I want you to sit down. I have something to ask you."
"But, Mom..."
"Britney, please."
"Oh, no. Who died?"
"Nobody. Just sit down."
A curious look on her face, Britney did as she was told. Natalie took a deep breath and faced her.
***

congrats to all the Packers fans! :)

[ZeldaGilroy]

I don't know how I missed this, but I am glad you found your charger and posted more. Since it's been a few weeks now, I hope you are going to post again soon. ;)

[PlayOn]

Sorry no post for a while. My iPod touch was acting crazy. Yes, I'm posting this story from iPod touch. Isn't technology amazing? Pretty soon, we can just say what we want to type and the computer will type it for us... If they don't have those things already. Lol. Anyway, here's more. :)
***

Natalie couldn't believe herself. She couldn't think of how to word the next thing that was about to come out of her mouth. This had never happened to her before. She took a deep breath and prayed the words would just... come.
"Why is it your Dad can have a relationship with Lucy, but I can't have one with Brad?"
A shocked look came across Britney's face. This was the last thing she expected to be asked.
"Mom, what does that have to do with any...?"
"Just answear the question please."
"I guess because... I don't know. Seeing you in a relationship is weird, I guess."
"Weird, how?"
"I guess I just want a parent who isn't so lovey-dovey with somebody else; whose attention is on me."
"Babe, you know you're the only love of my life. But, sometimes, I need sometimes, I need somebody to talk to. An adult. You get what I'm saying? What if I was the only one you had to talk to? No friends? Nobody else."
"I guess you're right. Sorry I acted the way I did around brad."
"Dont be. I should've told you sooner. I bet it was a big shock seeing me come home with a strange man."
"You have no idea. He does seem like a nice guy, tho."
"He is."
***

"Blair, I can't believe we're in here!" Dorothy exclaimed. A Gucci store? Me?"
"Well, I didnt know what colors you wanted for Trey's nursery to be, so..."
"Oh, I like that!" Dorothy walked over to a blue and brown blanket that was on a shelf nearby. "I'm not too crazy about the price, tho. $50 for a blanket?! What's it made out of? Gold?"
"Stop worrying about the price. You're forgetting who you're with."
"Still, Blair..."
"Not another word. Do you want this or don't you?"
"Yes."
"Great!" Blair smiled and picked up the one off the top and walked deeper in the store. Dorothy felt uncomfortable. She knew Blair could afford everything on the store and, yes, Blair did want to come here, but Dorothy thought and knew it was just too much. This was Blair's lifestyle. Not hers.
***

[ZeldaGilroy]

Glad you posted more Brandon. I hope to see more soon!

[PlayOn]

It's been months, I know. And I'm sorry. But I haven't been able to find my iPod Touch (the only way I'll post this story because each time I post a story via Internet, my computer crashes.) Anyway, my aunt found it. Now, I can't find the charger. It never ends. lol. I'll look deeper today and (if I find it) will give an update. So brush up on your reading. :)

[PlayOn]

"What about this?" Blair called from not too far away. Dorothy followed the voice and saw her friend holding up a green cashmere sweater.
"Perfect." Dorothy managed to spit out, still uncomfortable.
Especially after seeing the $100 price tag.
"I thought so, too. Now, to find some pants."
***

"Leroy, breakfast!" Edna called up the stairs and went back to the kitchen where Beverly Ann and Bruce were eating. "I can't imagine what's keeing him. I heard the shower turn off 30 minutes ago."
"Hes doing it on purpose." Brice stated. "He still blames us for Jennifer's leaving and he thinks he's punishing us by not listening to us."
"Well, he's the one about to be punished."
"Edna, calm down." Beverly Ann replied, putting her coffee cup back pm the table. "The boy just had his first broken heart. Those things are hard to get over. Trust me. I remember my first broken heart."
"Oh, yeah. I remember that one. He was cute."
"You ain't kidding. I was such a wreck, I wouldn't come put of my room for weeks."
"Beverly Ann, why do t you go tell leroy that story?" suggested Bruce. "It might not make him feel better right away, but at least he'll know his favorite aunt went through it, too. He won't talk to his mother or I."
"Id be happy to." Beverly Ann wiped her mouth and excused herself from the table."
***

"Blair, I really don't know about all this stuff." Dorothy said as Blair looked at an encrusted baby bottle. The diamonds weren't real, but by the looks of the price, you'd think they were.
"I told you: relax. I want to do this."
"Well, I don't want you to. This is all very nice and I thank you for it. But this isn't... me. Nor was it Trey's. The closest he ever came to a Gucci store was walking past one. And I don't Trey, Jr. to grow up thinking his mother has all this money and everybody is born with a silver spoon in his mouth."
"You say that like it's a bad thing. But I understand what you're saying. Sorry I kept on pushing. It's just that you're the first of us girls to have a baby. Who wouldve thought that of our little Tootie?!"
"Blair..."
"I'm serious! I always thought it would be Jo and the daddy would an ex con or hairy truck driver named Hammer."
Dorothy laughed. "Can we go home?"
"Or we could pick out things for my baby."
"I thought you didn't want to know what you're going to have. How can you decide between pink or blue?"
"I couldn't resist. I went to the doctor yesterday to find out. "
"Oh, Blair! That's great. What are you going to have?"
"I'll show you by the color I pick out first. But first, let me put these things away.

[fol_fan1989]

Great post! I'm glad you've posted more. But I want to know if Blair is having a boy or a girl. Hope you post more soon!