Monthly Archives: November 2024

Art, Creativity, Short Stories

Short Story #12

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Ginny

“Come on. Get up! Stand up for yourself. Are you stupid? Can you not understand me? Get up!”

I tried to push myself back up into a standing position, but they shoved me back down to the ground. Pain. I could feel the warm blood begin to seep from my knee.

“Never mind. Stay down there. That’s where you truly belong. Where the trash and scum live. You are just pure garbage.” The girl above me snickered and the others chimed in too.

‘Please help me. Someone. Help me.’

“What are you all doing!?” An alarmed woman’s voice called out behind the group.

“Run!” the group of girls yelled at each other as they all ran away from the scene.

“Ouch!” A few of them crushed my hand as they fled. Still not caring for my existence. ‘I can’t move. I don’t think my body will do anything for me.’

“Oh no. Sweetie. Are you alright? Do you need help? Here let me help you.”

The woman helped get me into a sitting position. I finally could look her in the face. She has a warm smile. Rosy cheeks. I knew I was safe for a moment. I looked down at my body to see the damage that was done. I gasped because it was worse than ever. Both knees were gushing blood. My elbows were beginning to bruise. My skirt was torn. My shirt was smeared with grime. I can’t imagine how my face looked.

“Come with me,” the woman carefully pulled me up into a standing position. “I’ll help you, but come with me.” She walked me to the entrance of the supermarket. Everyone was staring, pointing, gasping. I wanted to disappear, but my hero wasn’t backing away; so neither would I.

I pretty much hobbled all the way to the bathroom. The woman was a big help. Once in there I collapsed onto a small bench. I thought the woman would leave me but she stayed. She didn’t just stay, but she started to clean my face. Looking at the used paper towels I saw so much red. But my face felt so much better. She also cleaned my elbows, my knees. Magically she had bandages in her purse. So not only was I cleaned up, but I was healing.

“Than…thank you.” I choked up. No one had ever helped me. They always passed by while I was being bullied; or avoided me like the plague when I had to walk home after the beatings.

“Of course my dear. It’s what any decent human being would do,” the woman smiled warmly.

‘That’s probably why…no one had been decent.’

I glanced in the mirror and I was shocked that she had helped me at all. My face was turning black and blue. I had a cut over my eye; also one on my chin. But everything was bandaged. The woman didn’t stop there. She brought out a comb from her purse and proceeded to brush my mangled hair back into a normal state. She pulled it back into a half pony tail. She checked my reflection before nodding. Then she pulled out a bottle of foundation.

“Is your purse a Mary Poppins bag?”

She laughed. That made her smile even warmer. “You could say that. Do want some of this? Just for your face bruises. I don’t want you to feel uncomfortable around people when you head home later.”

I nodded. Anything to help the stares would be great.

She must have done some else’s makeup before. Because before I knew if she was done and I looked one hundred and ten percent better. “Thank you.” I was surprised she wasn’t asking any questions. Most people don’t help, but they think their own wisdom is the best help they can give.

“Of course honey. Well are you hungry? I’ll buy you a sandwich from the deli. I’m a bit hungry myself.”

“Yes please!” Wow. Help and food. I am getting spoiled today. But would happen tomorrow…

…

After lunch the woman walked me back to the front of the store.

“Do you think you can make it home okay?”

I nodded. I didn’t know if I could, but I shouldn’t take up any more of this woman’s time. “Yes. Thank you so much again.”

“Of course,” the woman waved goodbye, grabbed a cart, and once again entered the supermarket.

‘Of course. She had been here to shop. Well now what am I going to do?’ The bullies had shoved me into their car after school and brought me here. But after being spooked, I’m sure they all left by now. How was I going to get home? I’m miles away.

…

Mrs. Holler

Gathering up my groceries, I headed back to the front of the store. I’m happy I was able to help her. I hope she got home alright. ‘How could there be such terrible people everywhere…’

The girl was sitting on a bench to the side of the entrance. ‘Poor dear.’ I walked up to her smiling. This girl deserved the biggest smiles. “Did your ride never show up?”

She jumped at the voice behind her. Her arms came up in defense. She relaxed as she saw it was me.

‘I’m so sorry.’ I’m sorry, my dear. Do you think you could help me carry these groceries to the car. And I can give you a lift home. Or at least give you a lift to a bus stop if that would be better.” ‘She must be bullied non stop.’

She nodded.

I handed her a few bags, but the lighter ones. I’m sure her ribs were in some pain.

Once in the car it was discussed I would just drive her the whole way home. She didn’t have money for the bus fare. I sent off a quick text, to let my daughter know I would be a little late, and then gave my full attention to the girl in my passenger seat.

‘Should I bring it up? Or leave it alone. It’s best to talk about it…’

“Will you tell me what happened earlier?”

She shifted in her seat.

“You don’t have to if you don’t want. I just can sometimes be a help to people. If you want to, I’m all ears.”

She shrugged and looked out the window.

That was probably a no. I should just drive. ‘Focus on driving.’

“It happens everyday. For some reason I’m their choice for a target. I’ve never done anything to be on their radar. Just randomly one day I was tripped by someone, and after that I’ve been tortured everyday.”

I knew that was just the opening. But already I was so sorry for her.

“The torments kept getting worse and worse. I thought they might stop if I stood up for myself. But instead that just set them off more. They started shoving and beating me down. They wouldn’t stop. Why wouldn’t they stop!?”

Ginny was choking back tears. “Just cry my dear. You will feel better.”

“How do you know? Why did you help me today? You could have just walked by. Everyone always just walks by. Those girls might torment me even more tomorrow. What’s the point? Maybe I should…”

“No! Don’t finish that sentence,” I pulled off to the side of the road. I turned to look at her. I didn’t know what she was about to say, but I needed her to know. “I stopped because I wanted to help you. I wish someone would have stopped for my daughter. She was like you. She was the target of bullying. For no reason, but they decided she was the fresh meat. They tormented her everyday, and she of course kept it all from me. She didn’t want me to worry.”

“One day she didn’t come home. I got so worried that I went out looking for her. After about four hours of searching, I had almost given up hope until I spotted her. Standing on the sidewalk next to a busy street. It was the first time I saw my daughter looking broken. I don’t know why I knew, but I took off running in her direction. I made it to her, just as she took her first step into the street. I said nothing to her, but hugged her. She collapsed into my arms. We both broke down on the sidewalk. That day I discovered that I was not doing my job as a mom. That day I made a promise that I would help someone else who needed help! I would be the one to make a difference in their life.”

I realized it had been silent in the car the whole time as I spoke.

I looked over at the fragile girl beside me and she just had a look of shock.

“Your daughter tried to…?”

I nodded. She did. That was the most terrifying day of my life. When I realized that my daughter wanted to end everything. That she was in so much pain that she forgot all about me. But that wasn’t her fault. I was so wrapped up in my career at the time that I’m sure she thought she couldn’t turn to me. That she had been all alone in the world. ‘My poor baby.’ “Yes. So I will stop and help someone if they need help. I will always stop! Not another child will feel alone and lost while I’m around!”

“Just so you know I wasn’t going to say anything like that. I was just going to say something like run away. Go back into the system. Change to a new family in a new district. Running away from here seems like my only option.”

‘Foster…? So she no one.’ “I’m glad to hear that you weren’t thinking that way. No child should. So I’m assuming your foster parents don’t know?”

“They know. But they are fostering about twelve kids right now. Some of those kids need special care. And sadly if the state finds out I’ve been receiving beatings they will just assume my foster parents are doing it. They would lose everything. They truly are wonderful people, but they can’t risk everything for me; when those little kids really need them. So I’ve just been suffering by myself. But since the bullies aren’t going away I think I’ll just go back into the system.”

‘I wonder.’ “What school do you go to?”

“Marshall Haven Heights. Why?”

“Okay. I know some of the kids that go there. I could introduce you to a few. They are stand up kids and probably would have your back. If you would like that kind of thing.”

‘Friends? No. Charity friends.’ “I don’t want people to be around me because they are told. My one true friend bolted the moment I started to get bullied. She didn’t want to be a victim as well.”

“Don’t worry about that. My daughter is four years older than you. That’s actually the school she went to too. The kids I know there, are the siblings of the friends that rallied around my daughter after everything. Her friends are what got her through high school. They are a good group of kids. Do you want an introduction?”

‘What have I got to loose. Anyways I don’t think this woman is going to leave me alone now. “Sure. Why not.”

“Good. Let’s do it tomorrow!” I knew I was beaming, but I’m so excited to help!

…

Ginny

I knew these kids. They were the popular but non popular kids. If that makes sense. They were popular in the scholar parts of school. I guess you could call them preppy…or nerds. Something like that. Not really my type of people. But I couldn’t say that with Mrs. Holler next to me.

“Ginny. This is Nathaniel, Stephen, Sarah, Kevin, and Melanie. All of you, this is Ginny.”

Mrs. Holler kept looking at me, then back at them, then back at me. She probably wanted someone to initiate a hello. I didn’t want to, but I could also see that they were wary of me as well. Probably because my face was still heavily bruised. ‘Whatever. Just get this over with.’

“Hello,” I stepped forward, “my name is Ginny. It’s nice to meet you.”

“Good. Good.” Mrs. Holler was nodding excitedly. “Well I’ll be off. Hopefully,” she stepped up to me, “things will get better. I hope if I see you again it’s under better circumstances.” She gave me a quick hug, “goodbye.” And she left.

I watched as Mrs. Holler walked away. No matter what happens I am so thankful to her that day. I turned back to the group still standing in front of me. “Look, I know you don’t want to be here. I can read it on those two faces,” I pointed to Sarah and Melanie. I must have been right because they shifted on their feet. “So we can forget this. I’ll make do. I don’t want people in my life, that don’t want to be there. That’s pointless. So if Mrs. Holler asks I’ll say you have been great. You can lie too. I don’t need charity. If anything happens again, I’ll just leave.”

They just stood there. Not answering. Stephen and Kevin looked at each other. Nathaniel just kept staring at me. Nothing. I wasn’t expecting anything, anyways. “See ya,” I turned and headed towards the doors that would offer knowledge, but also a beating. Probably one of the worst kinds. If so, I will just be done.

Surprisingly the bullies stayed away. They didn’t even look at me. They didn’t speak to me. I was grateful, but I was also worried. Because that usually meant the beating would be away from adult eyes. ‘I could just leave. Right now. Before school is over. Just gather up my belongings and leave.’ It was tempting, but I did want to graduate. If I was gone all the time, then high school would take forever.

Clang! Clang! Clang! School was done for the day. Instead of waiting until everyone was gone, I decided to exit with the crowd. To disappear within the faces. ‘Maybe the bullies would miss me. Maybe I could get away. Maybe I could just do this the rest of high school. Maybe….’ That thought died on my tongue. Because waiting right next to the bus was the group. They were stopping everyone before they entered the bus. They were searching for me. Sweat started to trickle down my back. I could hear my heart beginning to speed up. My mouth went dry. I stopped walking, which is what tipped them off. A girl pointed at me; then the whole group looked up to see me and sneered. They left their perch at the bus, and started towards me. I started to back away. I don’t know why I didn’t run, but instead I stupidly backed up until I was back inside the school lobby. There was no where to hide. ‘I could run to the teacher lounge.’ But that would get linked back to my foster parents. I can’t do that.

Instead of hiding I just dropped my backpack to the floor. I too, slowly sank to the floor. Sitting in the position that they usually push me to when the beating begins. I would just take the beating. I wouldn’t try to fight back, be strong, or hide. I’ll just take it.

I waited for the group. As they finally circled around me, Ashley, the girl from yesterday, squatted down to my level.

“What’s this?” She grabbed a piece of my hair, “ you are all ready for me? All I need to do is crush you, until you are part of the floor. You know. I really think I could stomp your body flat until you are new kind of rug. That’s all you are, something for someone to stand upon. This is going to be fun!” Ashley dropped my hair and stood back up.

Just as the first stomp should have made contact with my back, a voice called out, “ what’s going on right now!?”

I lifted my head to see Principal Jessica and Nathaniel standing in the outer ring of the lobby. Nathaniel had his phone up, probably recording.

‘How humiliating.’ I dropped my head back down. Actually wishing I could disappear into the floor.

The groups started to panic and attempted run away. “Stop right there! I know each of your faces! If you run now you will definitely be expelled!” Principal Jessica and Nathaniel were walking up. “Get up my dear.”

How was I suppose to know they were talking about me. Until I felt a warm hand grab my shoulder, I looked up and see it was Nathaniel. He didn’t say anything. He just shook his head and helped me stand up. My knees felt weak and I almost fell, but Nathaniel caught me and held me up. ‘I’ll just go with it for now.’ Leaning on someone felt so strange but also nice. I don’t really know what happened after that. My head started to spin and I just felt my body collapse under me.

…

Few Days Later

Ginny

Well. A lot of things happened in these few days. And for the first few days, I was unconscious in a hospital bed. But after I woke up, I discovered that Ashley was arrested by the cops after more testimonies came. Several students that had witnessed my bullying came forward to share what happened in the past. Mrs. Holler added what she had saw. What Nathaniel had recorded was evidence too. The school actually search through their security feed to discover not all the beatings were done in complete secrecy. The bullies from the posey that were caught on camera being physical, were expelled. The others were suspended, and would not graduate this year; they would have to repeat.

So being back at school felt strange. I didn’t have any more to fear. I could just go to my classes; go and learn without being worried about what would happened after the bell clanged. I felt relaxed for the first time in a long while. This feeling was all thanks to the one woman who bravely stopped that day.

Mrs. Holler had helped so many students that day she helped me. She not only stopped my bullying, but now bullying had severe consequences. I don’t know if I would ever be able to thank her enough. She was the person that I would never forget. She has inspired me to be that person who stops and helps someone in need. I will always stop too!

,,,The End…

My son’s art. I love it so much!! My brain could write a story today, but couldn’t draw a picture… probably my art brain needs a rest. My daughter and I just finished painting all of her Christmas presents. I love my babies! 🥰
Art, Creativity, Short Stories

Short Story #11

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‘I need a job. Any job. Anything will do. Just something so that I can put food on the table. Please anything. Anything. Wait, was that?!?’

I didn’t hesitate. I just went. I was throwing my bag to the ground and dove into the pond in front of me. ‘I need to get there. Five…three…one…’

“Thank you! Oh my goodness! Thank you so much!!”

I sat catching my breath as the frantic mother clutches onto her sputtering child. ‘I made it. I made it.’ “Not a problem. Just always make sure to have an eye on your child at all times. It doesn’t always end like this.” I gave the mother a reassuring nod and then started to walk back to my bag. Hopefully it was still there; my whole possible livelihood was in that bag.

It wasn’t just where I had thrown it; it was neatly placed upon a bench, but also a small hand towel and a card placed next to my bag. The card read, “Mr. Stone. CEO. Juniper Aquatic Center. Always hiring.” ‘Is this really happening?!? I desperately needed a job and I’m handed an opportunity just like that…?’ No matter how this happened; I am so thankful. Not that the kid almost drowned, but that I was offered a job based on my efforts.

.-.-.

Well safe to say I was hired. Mr. Stone was there that day at the pond. He was amazed and surprised that I just went. I dropped everything and saved the kid without any real reason to do it. But I didn’t agree with that statement; saving a life should always be done without a reason. You should just do it. But not everyone knows how the family feels if they loose a loved one.

Working here was a job. And it wasn’t the best paying job, but I was able to put food on the table. That was all that mattered. I was told that when Summer came I would get a raise, because more heat means more kids.

I would show up at five in the morning and leave around six at night. Mr. Stone knew of my situation, so he allowed me to work two extra hours a day in the off season. Those two hours made a huge difference.

Life began to just blur together. Every day bled into another. Summer was almost here. The long hours would stop, but the raise would make up for those extra hours and give me an additional two more. I had plans for that extra money. Life was becoming good.

“Hey Stella?”

“Yeah?” I set the trash bags I was carrying down and turned.

Mr. Stone stood in front of me with a guy maybe my age. First impression: confident.

“This is my best employee, Jacob. He will start tomorrow. You both will be on rotation together. Stella, you’ve not connected with any of the other employees so I decided Jacob would show you the ropes for the Summer season. It’s been extremely mellow lately; that will change in the pool and on deck. Probably tomorrow. The crowds will probably be on the heavier side of females, with this one showing up again.” Mr. Stone thumbed at Jacob. Jacob smirked.

‘Yeah. Definitely confident. Maybe even cocky.’

“No problem Mr. Stone. Nice to meet you Jacob. Let me finish this task and then you can go over the changes I need to know,” I didn’t wait for a response. I just turned back around and continued with my trash run. ‘I’ll need to keep a distance from that one.’

“She’s a hard worker. It will be easy to work with her,” Mr. Stone said just as Stella left the building.

…—-…

Mr. Stone was not lying. It seemed like the moment Jacob stepped on the deck, a swarm of girls came out of the cracks and engulfed him. I kept my distance. I didn’t want to get in between a girl and her meal. That’s what it seemed like, anyways. I couldn’t read if Jacob liked all the attention or if he was annoyed by it all. But I knew his eyes were not on the water around us. So I kept my eyes peeled open and watched every spec of that pool.

No kid was going down on my watch, and just like that, I saw arms flaying. I whistled before diving into the pool. The kid was maybe three years old. No where near old enough to be swimming alone. The tiny arms clutched onto my neck as I carried him over to the deck. But no one came to him. Breathing a little hard, “where’s your parent? You’re not old enough to swim alone.” The boy pointed off a distance to a mom sunbathing.

I don’t know how or why, but before I could march over there and give that mom a piece of my mind, Jacob showed up and took hold of the kid. “Go back to your post.”

“But…she…”

“Go.”

I didn’t argue. I just bent down to the child. “Please be careful in the future. Only one lifeguard was watching the pool. If you are struggling, ask for help from some closer to you.” I stood. Patted the kid’s head, and stared at Jacob for a split second to let him know I was criticizing him, and went back to my post.

“Good work today Stella. You saved that kid. You have a knack for getting to the kid in time. I’m so glad I was there that day at the pond. More kids lives will be saved this Summer.”

“Thanks Mr. Stone.” I felt all the glares from the other employees. I didn’t feel anything from Jacob, but I didn’t really care. I wasn’t here to make friends. I was here to make money to buy food and daily life necessities. Nothing more.

Walking home always felt weird. I always felt like I was being watched or followed. Maybe since I watched a followed everyone every day, that maybe I deserved it when I was off the clock. But it was extra eerier tonight. I could sense someone coming closer. I don’t spook easily, but I was spooked. So I turned and started to hightail it back. But I ran smack into a shoulder of someone. The stranger caught me before I tumbled backwards.

“Thank you. Sorry. Sorry,” I walked around the stranger and quickly walked back to the closest bus station. One bus ride wouldn’t hurt the bank once. I didn’t even glance at the stranger I had bumped into. But their presence probably made my stalker retreat.

.-.-.

Being stalked took a lot of my energy these days. I would leave as soon as possible and I would run about three miles before getting on the bus. Shorter bus ride was cheaper. I needed to save every extra penny.

“Why do you run everyday? Was work not hard enough for you?” Jacob was waiting for me.

‘Great. I didn’t know what he wanted. But I didn’t have time for this.’ “I don’t have time for this. I need to get going.”

“Why don’t you just take the bus?”

“I do. Just three miles farther down. Two dollars is still two dollars.” Why was I telling him this. He didn’t care.

“I guess that makes sense. Can you walk today? I’ll walk with you too, I’ve got to go this way anyways; and some company would be nice.”

I didn’t want to talk to him. I had nothing in common with Jacob. This job was everything to me, whereas to him it seemed like this job was an easy way to get girls numbers. “Fine. I’m tired today anyways. But in three miles you are on your own.”

“Cool.”

We walked in silence. I didn’t want to talk to him, so if he didn’t talk I wouldn’t either. That eerie feeling was here again. The stalker was getting braver; they were watching me with Jacob around. I started looking around. Checking over my shoulder, searching around.

“What are you doing?”

“Nothing.” I didn’t want him to think I needed saving.

The three miles was over, and I waited at the bus stop. Jacob was still staying with me.

“You can go now. The bus will be here soon.”

“Oh. Okay. See you tomorrow,” Jacob walked off.

Why did it seem like he didn’t want to leave. Was he expecting me to fawn all over him like how every other girl did. I didn’t have that luxury.

“Why was Jacob with you?”

I turned to see a few of Jacob fan girls. Also a few of my coworkers. They were silent fans. This is why I wanted to stay away from him. “No reason. We were walking in the same direction. But he just left that way.”

“Why would he be around you. You are pathetic. Ugly. A waste of space.” The girls all chuckled together.

I didn’t want to answer back. What was the point. Where was the bus?

“Answer me!”

‘Just ignore them. Don’t react.’ SLAP! Punch. Shoved. Falling. Kicking my ribs, shins, arms. ‘Stop!! Please stop!!’ Pain. Then all I heard was people scattering. I couldn’t seem to pull myself up.

“Sweetie, you okay?”

Arms were lifting me up. I was still clutching my bag, that was the only strength I had.

“Let’s get you on the bus. I know your stop. You just rest.”

…—…

Today was going to be miserable. I could barely hold myself upright. I had taken two days off after the incident. Mr. Stone had come to my house to see what was wrong the second day, he knew why I worked so hard. So me taking a day off was strange. When I had opened the door he knew why in an instant. He had given me the two days as paid vacation. Which I’m grateful because I couldn’t actually afford those two days off. And today I wasn’t on lifeguarding duty. I was answering the phone in the office. Being in a chair was more bare able. Jacob kept glancing at me when he would walk by the office. ‘This was all because of him. Leave me alone. Give your attention to your fans. Not me.’

Break time was now my peace time. It was no longer a time for me to try and work more. I just leaned against a wall and closed my eyes. Letting my body slowly melt into a comfortable position.

“What happened to you?”

I jumped. And then I was in pain again. Big burning pain in my ribs. I grasped them.

Jacob saw that movement.

“Nothing. Please, just leave me alone.” Just then a group of Jacob fans came into view. ‘No. It was them.’ “Please go. Leave me alone. I can’t be seen with you. Please.” I’ve never begged anyone before. I think I felt worse now because of that.

Jacob looked in the direction of girls, and stood.

‘Yes. Please leave.’

But Jacob didn’t leave. Instead I looked around and more people had showed up. There were people everywhere encircling us. ‘No.’

I tried to stand to leave, but Jacob grabbed my wrist. “She is my person. Anyone who messes with her is no friend or fan of mine. People who beat or pick on another are disgusting to me. Don’t ever let me find out about this happening again.” Jacob turned to me and asked quietly, “can you walk?”

I nodded.

So Jacob walked with me in tow out of the building. I didn’t know if this was going to help me or hurt me. But at least they wouldn’t bother me today.

After that day Jacob had kept his promise. He made it very known to people that I was his person. Not a girlfriend, but his friend. I didn’t realize how nice it was to be his friend. No one bothered me at work, after work, or ever. I guess people were more worried about pissing off Jacob than worrying about my relationship with him. Which there was no relationship. I couldn’t think about anything more. I had too much on my plate.

Once again the days blurred together. Days bled into each other. But I think my days were easier and filled with more laughter now that Jacob walked with me. Only to the bus stop, but it was nice to chat about random things for that short period of time.

But today, those days changed. The bus fare raised in price and I could no longer afford the bus. So I had to walk the whole way home. Again I was walking with Jacob. He was rambling on about something. I needed to ask him a question. ‘Just do it!’ “Jacob will you walk me all the way home?”

He stopped. “What?”

“I can’t take the bus home anymore. Will you walk me home?”

“Umm…no. I’m not your boyfriend. We are just friends. I’m just walking with you everyday because this is on the way to my girlfriend’s house. We good? I’m gonna get going now. See you tomorrow.”

‘Wow. I didn’t realize I was just a person of connivence. That we actually weren’t friends. I thought we had at least become friends.’ But instead I was probably just a way for him to get away from all the other fan girls. Keep his girlfriend happy. I didn’t know what I was feeling…

“Maybe I can help you…”

The eerie feeling was back. But this time I could feel the presence behind me. Turning I knew it was over…

…

Jacob

Why did she have to throw me off guard? Why did she have to ask me to walk her home? Why did I have to lie to her about having a girlfriend? I wanted to walk her home everyday. Why did I have to be such an idiot? I’ll tell her the truth tomorrow.

“Beep beep beep” I checked my phone. ‘What? No…!?’

Everyone was in black. I only recognized Mr. Stone and a couple coworkers. I saw a business like woman at the front; next to a young woman and a child. ‘Strange to bring a kid to a funeral.’ Strange to be at a funeral. Strange to be at a funeral of a girl you missed your chance with.

“Hello Jacob. I didn’t know if I would see you here. Especially after your last conversation with Stella. I accidentally overheard your conversation. I had driven up to offer you both a ride when I got a smidge of what was said. So instead I just drove off; I wish I had offered her a ride.”

“What are you talking about? Why would that have made a difference?”

“You don’t know. After your conversation with Stella, is about the time she met her stalker. Apparently the stalker had been following her for about six months. He had backed off a bit when you started walking with her more and more, but he confessed to hearing your conversation and he ramped up his stalking to meeting her in person. He says he didn’t mean to hurt her, but that she wouldn’t listen to his reasonings for watching her in the shadows.”

‘Wait what? She was stalked? For months. He backed off because of me. But then he acted because of me. Because I lied to her that day. I left her there. I left her on that street. I left her…’ I had no words. I didn’t know how to respond. To the revelation that if I hadn’t been a coward that day, Stella would still be here. She’d be looking at my under scrutiny. She would be ignoring all my failed hints of hitting on her. She might have given me a chance. She might have…

“Don’t beat yourself up too much Jacob. If anything, you should feel sorry for that little girl over there.”

The little girl was still sitting in the front pew. She hadn’t moved this whole time. ‘Why feel bad for her?’

“That’s Stella’s whole world right there. Her daughter.”

“What!?!”

“I’m not surprised you didn’t know. She didn’t even want me to know, but she had to give me a good enough reason to give her the extra hours in the beginning. It being that she was trying to hire a full time nanny for her kid. So that she didn’t have to be in daycare every day of her life. I thought that was a good enough reason.”

“What? Why? How? What?” Stella had a kid. A daughter. A daughter that looked to be about three years old. She’s had a kid this whole time. That’s why she never had time. Why she always pinched pennies. Why she was so cautious around me. “Is the father still…”

“No. Sadly Susie has no other family. At least any family that wants her. Her father is just that. A man that brought a kid into the world that didn’t want her. And Stella’s family has nothing to do with Stella after the fatal incident when Stella was young.”

“Accident?”

“Stella’s twin brother drowned when they were six. The parents were not paying attention and Stella was too small to hold her brother up. But it still all managed to be Stella’s fault. At least that’s what the parents told everyone at the time. Stella truly had a difficult life. But she managed to keep herself afloat. Even when she became a mom. She persevered. But Stella’s poor kid. She’ll probably be put into foster care.”

I don’t know what came over me, but I walked over to the business dressed woman and started the conversation that would change my life forever.

…10 Years Later…

“Dad? Where is my softball jacket? I can’t find it anywhere!”

“Umm Susie, look around your waist,” I chuckled as I saw the realization come across her face; realizing that the sweater was tied around her. “Please tell me you do this just to keep me on my toes.”

“Of course, Dad. I knew it was there the whole time.”

‘Liar.’ “You got everything you need for camp?”

“Yep! All packed and ready to go. Just waiting for Lisa and Jen’s mom to…”

‘Honk! Honk! Honk!’

“That’s them Dad. Got to go!”

“Wait a second. Didn’t you forget something?”

She ran back into the room for a big squeezing hug. “Love you Dad.” And just like that she was gone.

It’s been ten years since that day I told the agent I would be applying for custody of Susie. She was not impressed that day, but was on the day I was approved. All my friends thought I was crazy. Taking a kid in, that wasn’t related to me. But I had to. Because that little girl needed to be brought up with love; not just any love, unconditional love. Just like her mom had done for her. Stella’s world was Susie, and now I can say that Susie is mine.

…The End…

Art, Creativity, Daily Prompts

A Magical Land

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If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Not really magical, like Harry Potter. I would love to live in a place that all my family would love to live. But it’s not realistic.

My husband and I are very much country type people. Lots of open space. Tractors, chickens, cows, dirt, less people, and good strong Christians. We are that typical country song.

I know some of my family are country too. But I know some of them are more city people. Less busy, hustle and bustle city; and more like suburbs. Like they like having people around and all the amenities.

Because let me tell you. When you live about 45min from a city with all your shopping stores; you learn to live without something until you are planning to go back. Or like me; you learn to make everything from scratch. You want tacos…you don’t have tortillas…you make them. You are craving a delicious burger and French fries…you make it yourself. It’s a lot of work to change to be this type of person, but so worth it.

But back to my family. I know my mom would come and my brothers (maybe). I haven’t had talks with them in a long time; so I don’t actually know who my brothers are anymore. Which is sad to say, but that’s what happens when you live far away and you keep getting pregnant.

But then my sisters would be left where they are. And that doesn’t seem fair. I would be happy to have my family near me once again!! But my sisters wouldn’t have their family near them.

That’s why I want to live somewhere magical. Somewhere where we all could get what we want. I know of a place, but it’s just a dream. Because moving away to a new state is hard. Especially if you have always lived in the same place. You would leave your good friends, your surroundings, and sometimes family.

That’s what my husband and I did, over seven years ago. Wow. It’s been seven years!!

So the only way to answer this prompt is: I want to live in a magical place where everyone wants to live. But I can’t just ask them to move closer. Because that would just me asking for selfish reasons. That I miss my family so much that I wish they would all just move closer for me. Also the thought that my kids would know their cousins; that would be an added perk.

Have a wonderful Friday. Let it be filled with your dreams of what ifs. Mine: what if my family were closer?? I would be the happiest person in the whole world. 🥰

My daughter’s newest painting. She is painting paintings for all of her family for Christmas presents. So proud of her.

I paint at the same time on paper, and she paints on a canvas board. We go step by step. She is doing fantastic!! I am so happy to have a painting buddy. Almost 3 done, only 8 more to go. And we are running out of time. Not just cause Christmas is coming, but I’m getting bigger and bigger pregnant. So my days are slowly getting more filled with more naps.

Art, Creativity, Short Stories

Short Story #10

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He ran away. He actually ran away. I told him we’re pregnant and he ran away. Like seriously. I told him, and he didn’t say anything; he just walked to the door, picked up his car keys, and left the apartment. It’s been four days and he’s not been home.

What does he think of me? Does he really think I’m a gold digger? Yes, I knew he has money but that’s not why I’m with him. Does he not remember he pursued me. In the beginning, I didn’t want anything to do with him. Money scares me; money can make people act funny. So I actually avoided him in the beginning.

But he pursued me until there was no escaping him. So we started dating. In secret. It was my idea; I didn’t any of my coworkers to know I was dating the boss. Rumors never helped anyone. Then we moved in together. It wasn’t planned; I got evicted from my apartment suddenly and he offered his place. In the beginning we stayed separately. Everything was fine. It was hard to be strong when he was only a few feet from you, but I knew it was right to be separate.

Until one night he made the first move. It seemed so sudden. But one thing led to another and…no. I stopped him. I wasn’t going to sleep with him without a proper engagement. I needed to know that he wanted all of me forever. I thought I had ruined it for us; that he was going to leave me, because I barely saw him the next two days. But to my surprise I came home to a romantic apartment. Rose petals, candlelight, crooner love songs; all the things he swore were cheesy and he would never do. He got down on one knee and asked me the important question, “will you marry me?” Of course I said yes! I loved him, and now I knew he loved all of me. I initiated that night. But I knew it was going to be the first of our future.

Or so I thought, until next month I saw the two little pink lines on the test. I was pregnant. We were pregnant! I was so excited that I rushed out into the living room and said it loudly and proudly, “Honey! We’re pregnant!”

I was met with silence. Utter silence. His expression didn’t change, maybe his face went paler. No smile, no hug, no nothing. Just shock and silence. Then he left. He left me standing in our living room all excited about our child, all alone. He was gone.

It’s now the fifth day and nothing, I’ve decided to leave too. If this was how he was going to react then he shouldn’t have wanted to take out relationship to the next level. I know I initiated it. But I thought it would be forever. Not that his proposal was just a method to move things along.

So I was packing. Realizing that I didn’t have much more to pack from when I moved in initially. He had given me a few gifts here and there, but I had no desire to keep something from a man that didn’t actually want me. Maybe those were just meant to buy his way into my bed. There were a few items in the room that we had purchased together. A mirror big enough to see the both of us. Our bed spread; now I know why he was willing to buy the fluffy pink one I insisted on buying. All the picture frames around the apartment…but I didn’t want anything. They would stay in the apartment that they were bought for.

I packed up my suitcases and was ready to go. Glancing at the door I hesitated. Maybe he’ll be back tonight. Maybe I should give him one chance. Looking down at the phone on the side table I dialed his office number. Miss Jean his secretary picked it up. She was probably the only one who knew I was dating Justin. Mr. Marshall to her. “Hey Jean. Is Mr. Marshall in his office?” Silence. I couldn’t handle the silence again! “Jean. Please answer me!”

“He’s in the office. He’s told me to not to disturb him. Ms. Abigail is in there with him.”

‘Abigail.’ The woman that had been pursuing Justin the entire time he pursued me. She was also wealthy. But he had assured me that he didn’t like her. “Hold the phone up to the door.”

“Miss. I don’t think that would be proper.”

“Just do it. I need to know.”

Then on the other end I heard giggling. And noises. I knew the noise. It was when he kissed your neck. You couldn’t help but giggle in that way, because that’s what I did too. So he wasn’t just hiding from me or our child, he was ending his relationship with me and his child in the most harmful way possible. I had my answer. “Thanks Jean. I needed to hear it for myself. Please don’t tell Mr. Marshall I called. Goodbye Jean.”

‘Goodbye.’ That’s what this relationship has come to. A silenced goodbye. A one sided goodbye. A goodbye to an empty apartment. A goodbye to a cheating man. A goodbye to everything in this life, but a hello to a new loved one. Goodbye.

…5 Days After The Pregnant Scare…

Justin

She’s gone. She left me. Was I really nothing to her? Yes, I didn’t respond in the best way possible. I just left her there in the living room. She said she was pregnant and I panicked. I panicked that this was her plan all along. Get pregnant and then I have to marry her.

But no, she stopped us the first night. I knew she wanted something more concrete; a more stable standing in the relationship. And I had given it to her. I did all the cheesy gestures. I had even got down on one knee and proposed. Then she initiated everything. To her defense I was going to if she didn’t. But it shocked me that she got pregnant after only our first time. Hadn’t she been on the pill? No. Right. She had mentioned that the pill had made her sick in past so she wasn’t using anything. I didn’t think to use protection that night because I was a little distracted by the woman I loved in front of me.

‘I loved. Did I really just say that? I knew I liked her. A lot. I knew the only way to go to the next step was to propose, but I had planned on us having a long engagement so that I could figure out if this was truly what I wanted. Realizing that makes me sound like scum. I loved her. No. I love her. I still do. But she was gone.’

I had gotten home that night. I had decided I needed to stop hiding at the office and face our problem. Also, Abigail had shown up with her new boyfriend. And they were being too lovingly in front of me, that I had to get out of my office. I just left them there. I hadn’t realized why their shows of affection bothered me so much. Because I wanted to be doing that with Ally. I wanted her. So I had rushed back to the apartment to grovel and beg for forgiveness, but instead I was met with an empty apartment. Not that she had taken all my belongings, but I knew she was gone. The warmth was gone. Everything was left though. The diamond bracelet and Ruby necklace I had given her were still on her dresser. All the dresses I had bought her were still hanging in the closet. The bed spread she had insisted on was still on our bed…no; I guess now my bed. But everything that had came with her that first day was gone. She was gone.

…5 Years Later…

Justin

I was no longer a happy guy. Instead I’ve turned into a bitter person. Five years. Five! And nothing. No letter. No call. Nothing. After I realized that Ally was gone I searched for her. Everywhere! But nothing. Non of my PI’s could find her either. She had hidden herself well. It’s not like I could even find where her parents lived. Ally had mentioned before that they sold everything and began traveling the US. Never staying in one place too long. And all I knew about them was their names were Mr. and Mrs. Howard.

However I did find out, on my quest for answers that Ally had called my office that day. And Miss Jean swears to it that Ally forced her to let her listen to what was happening in the office. Not knowing that I had actually left my own office about twenty minutes before. And luckily for me I left while Miss Jean was away from her desk. I didn’t agree with it, but I could understand why she never contacted me again. Why would she contact someone she thought had cheated on her.

Did she not know me? Did she not know that Abigail is the last woman in the world I would ever like? Did she not know I loved only her? I’m guessing not, seeing as she left.

I wasn’t this guy. I was a happy go lucky kind of guy. Go with the flow. But ever since I found out that the girl I loved, thought I abandoned her when she desperately needed me, and left. She wasn’t after my money. She didn’t seem to care for any of it. Instead she wanted me to be the man she had always wanted. ‘And what did I do? I fled. I ran.’

So instead, these last five years, I’ve had to live with the constant questions. Did she have the kid? Did she not? Am I a father? Am I not? Is she married? Is she still pinning for me? Does the kid know about me? And if so what did she tell them?

Constant!! And they never stop. I’ve got to find something out or I’m going to go crazy.

Ring, Ring. Ring, Ring.

“Hello. Yes, this is him. Really. You found them? Where? Wyoming? Really Wyoming? Okay. Thank you.”

‘Ally. You can’t hide forever.’

…

Justin

Wyoming was completely different from New York. There was no hustle and bustle. It was very low key and very country. Not somewhere where I would have pictured Ally living. But I guess it worked, because I had never thought to look here. Pulling up outside of a small house I saw kid toys scattered in the yard. That’s promising. But it could be another kid’s toys. I knocked. Nothing. Again I knocked. This time I heard a scurrying of little feet. Then…

“Jason Henry Howard, get back here and take a bath. You are filthy.”

I knocked once again on the door. I needed to see who was yelling and whom they were yelling at. I needed to see Ally. I didn’t realize how much I missed her. I needed to…

The door flew open and there stood an older woman. Maybe late forties. She was holding a young boy who was not a fan of being held. Instead of fighting him, she let him down and told him to do get Gpa. A shirtless little boy ran through the living room and into a hallway. Yelling the whole way, “Gpa! Gpa! Gpa!”

“I’m sorry. Is there something I can help you with? My grandson is a handful. You are?”

I was just standing there on the porch. I knew, that kid was my son. I could see a lot of Ally in him, but I also could see hints of myself. He must be about four. I can’t believe I missed four years. The woman before me was still standing there waiting for an answer. “Sorry ma’am. I’m Justin. Ally’s ex fiancée. And that handful must be my son.”

She stood there stunned. Mouth gaping open. But then her face turned to pure horror. She just started backing away from the door. So I took the initiative to come inside and close the door behind me.

“Gammy. I broot Gpa fuur oo.” Jason had come running into the room and stopped suddenly when he saw me.

Now looking at him more closely I could see we had the same eyes. Same smile. But I could see Ally too. His skin tone, his hair, his laugh; all screamed Ally. How I missed her. “Hello sir, I’m Justin Marshall,” I extended my hand out to Gpa as my son had said.

He didn’t shake the hand, instead he bent down and whispered something to Jason. A loud, “Yipee!” rang out from him as he disappeared down the hallway again.

So they’ve sent the child away. This was not going to be a good talk. They we’re getting into their defensive mode.

They sat. So I sat. They were silent. So I was…yeah right, “where is Ally? Maybe she should be here for this conversation.”

They both looked at each other. Tears were forming in the woman’s eyes. She turned and looked out the window. “Ally,” Mr. Marshall began, “Ally passed away about two years ago today.”

‘…no…what…no…’I looked at the woman and her back was now to me, and her shoulders were shaking. “How? Why? How?”

“She had cancer. It was unaware to anyone. Even her. She was already at stage four before anything could be done. So she entrusted Jason to us before her passing.” Mr. Marshall started to choke up. He covered his mouth to help cover up the sobs coming from it.

‘I didn’t know. No one knew. So not only did I hurt her five years ago, but when she desperately needed someone to help her through her tough times I was no where to be found.’ “I’m so sorry, I…”

“You should be. Do you know how our baby felt? We know all about your infidelity. How you got scared. How you were a coward. How you cheated on our baby with another woman not even a full week after you found out she was pregnant. How can you even live with yourself. How can you…?”

“Sherry that’s enough,” Mr. Marshall now stood and placed a hand on his wife’s shoulder. Her sobs started up again. “I’m sorry, Justin. For you to find out like this. But I must ask you to leave.”

“But what about Jason. Shouldn’t he know I’m his father?”

“No. I don’t think now is the best time. Jason was only two when Ally passed, but he still cries for her at night. I don’t want him to get attached to another adult, that will only leave him again. Not saying Ally left him purposefully, but she did leave. And to Jason that’s all he knows. That mama left. He doesn’t understand that she is up in heaven watching him.” As if in habit Mr. Marshall glanced up. “So please leave for today.”

This wasn’t going to be the end. It can’t be. “I’ll be back. I’ll come back everyday. I want to know my son. Ally misunderstood that day she called. I was not in the office. A woman and her boyfriend commandeered my office. Long story. I was on my way home to her that day. I know I screwed up. I know I was a coward. I’m so sorry I wasn’t there for your daughter when she needed me most. I panicked that day, but I’ve been searching for these two since. Please don’t cut me out of my son’s life too. I’ll be here for him. Please just give me a chance.”

They just looked at me. I probably looked crazy. Maybe I was. I needed to be in my son’s life. He needed to know that his Dad wanted him. That I loved him. That his Dad loved his mom very much. That I wasn’t going anywhere.

“You’ll have a chance. It was Ally’s wish if you ever came looking for him. But that you are to understand. He lives with us. To him we are his only family. You have never been mentioned. Just take it slow. Let him warm up to you first. It will take time. However, I’m sure you don’t have unlimited time?”

“For my son. He has all my time.”

…1 Year Later…

It did take time. But slowly Jason warmed up to me. He eventually called me Dad. Not officially I think, but it was a start. It warmed me to know that’s how he saw me. I was living in Wyoming now. I had sold everything that week, one year ago. My house, my company, all my real-estate. Everything. And moved down here to be closer to my son.

I’m not one hundred percent accepted yet, but at least Mrs. Marshall doesn’t give me the eye anymore. She may be willing to forgive me now. Maybe. It’s fine. I’ll wait. I’m always going to be here. Here with my son. Ally’s son. Our son.

…The End…

Art, Creativity, Daily Prompts, Reflections

Well…

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Name the most expensive personal item you’ve ever purchased (not your home or car).

Haha! I was going to say house or car. But since that’s not an option, then…a dress.

It was around the time I was coaching high school swimming. Turned out they needed more chaperones for prom night. I jumped at the opportunity!

I was homeschooled; so I had to be asked by someone who went to a public school to experience prom. I was. My friend’s brother at the time. The getting ready was the best part of prom. But then once there, I was left at a table where I ended up playing Jin rummy all night long with another guy that was left at the table. It was still fun, but I afterwards felt that I never got to experience prom.

So when I heard they needed help at prom, In a heartbeat, jumped at the opportunity. I was told to dress up so that I would blend into the students. So I got to experience everything again!!

I went out to buy a new dress. New prom, new dress. Made sense in my brain. The theme of the prom was Great Gatsby. So of course, sparkly or beaded.

Safe to say I wasn’t paying attention to the price of the dress. I tried it on, and it fit like a glove!

Yeah….it was $300.00! I was shocked. So I had to call my mom first.

“Mom. I found the perfect dress. But it’s $300. Is that too much?”

“That’s a bit much, but if you believe you will wear it more than once the quality of the dress will be worth the amount. It’s your decision. I’m excited to see whatever you decide when you get home.”

‘Neither yes, or no. Had to be my decision. Learning lesson’ “Okay thanks mom.”

I course told myself I would wear it more than once! So they rang me up and my card was denied. ‘What!!’ I knew I had more than enough money to buy the dress. I was currently working two jobs and I was still at home. So I again had to call my mom. Turned out I had a limit on my card of $50 as a precaution. So you can see that I rarely used my card. So as soon as I figured everything out the dress was mine.

Prom was just as exciting. I got to walk around the museum. Look at all the exhibits. I saw some of my swimmers dancing. They were surprised I was in dress. Normally I wore pants or shorts to coach. Some of my swimmers didn’t know who I was until someone called out “Coach!”

But all around it was a fun night. And it made up for my previous prom.

And I did. I wore it once more. So two wears for $300 is more like two dresses for $150, right? That sounds better.

And I took care of the dress. Proper cleaning and storing. But either I’ll wear it again. Or my daughters will have a dress ready and waiting for them when they need one. But my true goal is to shrink back down and fit into it again. My husband will have to take me somewhere if that happens.

$300. That was my big splurge on one personal item. After that I stayed in my safe price range for dresses. $50-$100 a dress. $100 had to be something I was going to wear several times. But usually I stuck to the $50 range. Where I felt more comfortable. Or I would shop in the clearance section. Saving money gives me an energy.

Which is probably why I’m still that way, but also not. I make do. If I want something, I really dwell on if we really need it or not. For weeks. And usually I decide I don’t NEED it. But sometimes I get the urge to shop. And the urge won’t go away. But luckily we have a great thrift store in town. $1 for each item. So I go in there and spend $10-$20. And I get some things for me, for my kids, for the kitchen, for school, for storage. Usually I only spend $10. That’s enough.

That is enough to suffice my urge to spend money. My husband is okay with me spending $10 once every couple months. However, I really can’t wait until we have an allowance again!! Because I also get an energy from saving actual money. If I have a jar and actual hard cash in my hand it goes into the jar. I once saved up $500 and that was $40 twice a month. Needless to say I get competitive with myself. “One more day! One more day!”

Usually I don’t even spend the money on me. I spend it on my husband, my kiddos, my mom. It makes me happy to buy things for others. But this time around I’m going to try and think about spending some on me. Like set aside at the end of saving about $200. That I have to spend on myself. Because when we go on trips or to different places I occasionally find something I want to buy and I’ve spent my allowances already. So I’m going to try; and believe me it’s going to be difficult. Or maybe I won’t, and I’ll save up until Christmas and buy everyone presents. I like the sound of that plan!

So yeah. I’ve changed. I was once someone who would go to Ross, on a Saturday, and spend $300-$500 dollars on a whole new wardrobe. To now, someone who gets a drive from saving money or spends $10 every two months when I need to buy something.

Have a great day!!

The dress…kind of.

I realized it’s been over 10 years since I wore the dress. So I don’t have the original picture on my phone. But I had edited a photo of the dress and this is the best I could do. It was a steely blue. Completely beaded. Floor length. A classic. But heavy!! So even in 10-15 more years it will still be in style.