Tag Archives: Art

Art, Creativity, Daily Prompts, Reflections

Well…

November 9, 2024 emily2jane Leave a comment

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!!

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.

Art, Creativity, Short Stories

Short Story #9

October 20, 2024 emily2jane Leave a comment

‘Why did I come out tonight? Why am I out here with people I haven’t seen in over two decades? Why did I think I would still fit in?’

My husband let me out for a night, solo. He’s at home with the kiddos. This is my first night in years being away from my little ones. My old tennis team was having a reunion, and I desperately wanted to go. But now that I’m here I’m confused why I desperately wanted to be here.

The venue was chosen as Roberta’s. A line dancing club and bar. I always wanted to come here again. I used to love the dancing, the atmosphere, and the social time.

Well the dancing is different to me, or maybe I’ve become too domesticated. It was just people getting as close as possible without getting intimate.

The atmosphere was fine, except the music was so loud. Like too loud!! I didn’t realize I had become such a prude; but I guess I am. Also I’m not used to the type of music. With my kiddos I’ve had to be careful what kind of music I listen to, because my kids mimic. Answering questions like, “what does this song mean?” And the song is about getting in the backseat of car…I don’t want to explain that to a seven year old. So I try and stick to Christian music, clean country, and crooners. The opposite of tonight.

Then there’s the socializing. For the past eight years I’ve been with my kids and husband. But the people who were once my good friends are drowning themselves in alcohol. Some of the married couples are off dancing close to other people. While the single friends were trying to hit on everyone in the bar.

“Come on, Sarah. You should come out and dance!” Jared slurred out while pulling me towards the dance floor.

“You go on without me. I’m not feeling too good.” Which wasn’t a lie. I was starting to feel dizzy. Maybe it was the air. I had only been drinking sparkling water all night, so I can’t be feeling dizzy due to drinking.

Jared shook his head and mumbled under his breath, “waste” before walking off.

I saw Chelsea and Katherine walking over in my direction, but instead I gathered up my jacket and purse and headed to side door. I needed some air. The cold air, burned my cheeks instantly, but it felt amazing. ‘What is this feeling?’ I was stumbling and fumbling trying to make it to the outside gazebo. Only a few people were there.

Safety. I felt safe as I stumbled onto a bench. It felt sturdy.

“Miss, do you need some water? You don’t look so good.”

Someone was handing me a water, and without thinking I took it and started chugging it down. It tasted like clean water. It was pure. Telling me that my drink must have been spiked tonight. “Thank you.”

“No need to worry about me miss, but you need to be careful accepting water from strangers.” The elderly man sat down beside me.

‘That’s true. I should have been more careful. I miss Charles. I miss my little darlings. My youngest is only two; how could I leave her at home?’

“Oh please miss, don’t cry. Here,” a handkerchief was handed to me.

I accepted it. I didn’t realize I was crying. I dried my face and finished the water. I felt better. Looking up I saw the gentleman beside me. He was an elderly gentleman; maybe seventy. He was nicely dressed, and he seemed calm and content.

“Is there a restroom nearby?” I wanted to wash my face and become a little less disheveled in front of my helper.

“Off to your right. Are you coming back or heading back inside?”

“I’ll be back. I think I’m done for tonight. Thank you.”

Looking in the mirror, a crazy looking person was looking back at me. I hadn’t seen this girl since my early twenty days. Not my best side. I washed my face and I felt much better. I tried to think back over the night; trying to figure out who and when my drink was spiked. Must have been Jared. He had been trying to get to me all night. Good thing Charles is not here, or Jared would be waking up in a hospital.

Finally seeing my normal self in the mirror I heading back to the gazebo. The gentleman was still sitting there waiting for me. “Sorry for my crying display earlier, someone from my company spiked my drink and I haven’t had alcohol in about ten years.”

Shock then anger was on the elderly man’s face. “Your drink was spiked. How could anyone do this? I’ll ask the bartender if someone from your party did it at the bar.” He waved over a man and whispered into his ear. The other man went off, back to the inside.

‘Who was this man?’ My face must have revealed my thoughts.

“Haha, sorry miss. I’m the owner here. I just want to know if a bartender saw anything. And if so I want them to be more aware and report these types of situations.”

The owner? The owner! Oh. “Strange. You don’t seem to look like the owner of this place?”

He raised an eyebrow, “what does that mean?”

“No offense. You just seem so classy.”

He chuckled. “I understand. No harm done. But you would be surprised that this place was once a classy place. We would dance the foxtrot, waltz, and even the east coast swing. We would have a live band and everything. My wife and I would host every night. The people who came would be there to dance and have fun with friends. We were all a big family back then.”

That sounded wonderful! I wish there was a place like that nowadays. I would go all the time. “That sounds wonderful, why did you…” looking at his face I knew why. “Where is your wife now?”

“She passed about thirty years ago. About that time the world started to change. People didn’t want to dress up and dance the night away; they wanted a louder atmosphere. You know, what it was like in there. Not something my Annie would have enjoyed. I’m happy she isn’t here to see what this place has become.”

I could see the true sadness on his face. He was missing her. Which is comforting to know that true love still exists after passing.

“I’m not quite a fan of this type of place, no offense. I was. But now that I’m a wife and mama I don’t really fit in to this place. Before it never bothered me; but now that I know someone is waiting for me at home, it’s hard to not think of them. Especially my little Lily. She’s only two years old, and I’m not with her. It feels weird to be away from my kids. I’m always with them. Everyday…”

“You remind me of my Annie. She always wanted to be home with our children too. I was the one who always wanted to be here dancing.”

“I would say I’m the one always wanting to be out dancing, whereas my husband is happy just being home. Every once in a while I want to go out ballroom dancing. I enjoyed learning to dance when I was younger. That now when I want to dance, I scoop up my son and dance the waltz with him in the living room. So coming out tonight has cured me of my desire to be out dancing. I’ll just dance with my son. Unless there was a family friendly classy place to go, I don’t think I will be coming out again.” I stood from the bench. Gathering up my jacket and purse. “Thank you again Mister,”

“Wesley.”

“Thank you Mr, Wesley. You saved me tonight.”

“Could you do me a favor? Since I saved you.”

“Sure.”

“Could you dance a quick waltz with me. I can’t do all the crazy tricks like before, but I would like to feel that feeling again.”

I smiled. I knew he wanted to feel close to his wife again. “Of course. And don’t worry about dancing fancy, I’ve not danced with a partner in a long time.”

“Ma’am, may I have this dance?” Wesley held out his hand.

“You may.”

…

Mr. Wesley had taken me back inside the establishment. “Are you off my dear?”

“Yes. Thank you for everything.” Wesley nodded and walked off.

The bartender stopped me before walking out, “Miss. You need to pay your bill?”

“My bill? I didn’t realize sparkling water cost money. How much do I owe? Ten dollars?”

The bartender coughed and handed me the bill…

“Two thousand dollars!?! That’s impossible. I don’t have that kind of money. Also I didn’t order anything. Is there some kind of mistake?”

“No mistake miss. Your party said that you were covering the bill. They all left about an hour ago.”

‘My party? What party? Oh. Them.’ “I never said I would pay the bill. Especially since I’m the one that ordered only sparkling water. Why would I offer to pay? This is all a mistake. I can’t pay this.”

“I’m sorry miss, but I will have to detain you and call the police, then. Please step aside.”

“But…” I was devastated. This was probably Jared’s idea. Since his plan of spiking my drink didn’t work for him, he thought leaving me here holding the bill was probably his retaliation. Never again. This really sealed the deal of me never hanging out with this lot ever again. “Fine.”

“Mrs. Dawely, why are you still here?”

I looked up to see Mr. Wesley standing beside me. “Mr. Wesley, my so called friends left me with the bill. I can’t afford to pay it. The police are being called. I’m sorry, but I can’t pay the bill. It’s probably Jared’s fault. He’s the one who spiked my drink. And since his plan foiled he probably leaving me with the bill would be a great revenge. I’m so sorry, Mr. Wesley.” I was holding back the tears.

Wesley walked over to the bartender. They discussed something. Mr. Wesley was just nodding while listening.

“Well my dear. You have been put into a bit of a pickle. I want you to tell the police everything when they show up. Also if you have a picture of the people who were here tonight. They will be banned from this place forever. I’m sorry that this had to happen to you. But now you know what kind of people they are. I would suggest getting new friends.”

“But Mr. Wesley. The bill. I can’t just let you loose two thousand dollars. I could help to pay it off if you would like?”

“No problem at all, my dear. I’ll settle it with the police. But if you could pay for your portion. You owe six dollars and thirty-eight cents.”

The tears came down in a gushing waterfall. “Thank you…Mr…” I couldn’t get the words out but I paid the bill. Just as Charles ran through the door.

“You have a keeper there son,” Mr. Wesley told Charles. “Keep her close.”

…2 Years Later…

I was holding my little Jeffery Wesley in my arms. We actually got to have another baby! I never forgot Mr. Wesley after that day. So much so that when this little guy grows up I will tell him who he is named after; and honorable gentleman. A man who saved Jeffery’s mama.

“Hey hon. You got a letter in the mail. More like a package.” Charles called from the kitchen.

Before I could even get to the kitchen all the kids were zooming there. Wesley didn’t just save me that night, he saved my family too. ‘Thank you Mr. Wesley.’ I don’t think I would ever stop saying thank you to him.

I handed Jeffery off to Charles. ‘Who would have sent me something?’ “Hey Hon. Do you know Hawthorne Attorneys?”

“Never heard of them.”

‘Huh.’ Probably a wrong address. Or a misspelled name. I’ll open it to find a mail back address. “Wesley! Wait what? Charles what does this mean?” I handed the paper to Charles and sat down on the chair beside me. ‘Did I read that right?’

“Mr. Wesley left you a large sum of money. This is part of his will. So it means that Mr. Wesley has passed away.”

‘He was gone. I had been planning a surprise visit to see him next month. I wanted him to meet little Jeffery. I wanted Mr. Wesley to know his help that day saved more than just me. He’s gone.’

“Hon? Hon?”

I didn’t speak but I looked to Charles.

“He left you thirty million dollars. What are you going to do?”

I wasn’t thinking about the money. A man that I had hoped would be an honorary member of my family is gone. I scooped up little Jeffery out of Charles’ arms and walked out of the kitchen. I needed some time.

…

It took some time, but I figured out what to do. I opened up a dancing place called Wesley’s. There was a dress code. The dancing was ballroom or swing only. The music was always a live band. It was always a swinging place. Full of families having fun, also laughter and smiles. This place was for Mr. Wesley and his wife Annie. They deserved a legacy they would be proud of.

Art, Creativity, Daily Prompts, Reflections

50/50

October 2, 2024 emily2jane 1 Comment

Your life without a computer: what does it look like?

I’ve always wanted to be at this point. Not have a smart phone, a computer for media, etc. but it’s too realistic in todays world. Because as much I would love to live simply; there are reasons I need a way to stay connected.

Like my family. We all live apart. FaceTime has been a game changer. My kids know their grandma, uncles, aunts, and cousins. We only see each other in person maybe once or twice a year. But my mom can still watch her grand babies grow up in real time. This one is hard to change. But I suppose I could go back to writing letters with pictures included.

Another is recipes. I use the internet most to find new recipes. Even though I’m constantly trying new things; we get to a point that feels like I’m just in a cycle of recipes. So I find a few more to add into my cycle. I’m constantly doing this. But this one I could switch over to getting cookbooks.

This blog. When I get a moment to write down something; it means I’m still using my creativity side of my brain. Just because I’m so busy, I don’t want to loose that side of me. This one, I could just switch to a journal. This blog is a digital journal.

Media. I really want to get to the point where our entertainment watching is just DVDs or Blu-ray’s. Because then I know what my kids are watching. And with all the things happening in the entertainment industry I’ve stopped watching new things. I have favorites and I just watch them over and over. I’ve never been someone to watch something new. I have to be in the mood. This one is easy to solve if you have unlimited money. Since everything is going digital, dvds and Blu-ray’s are getting to be more expensive. So I have to just slowly add movies to our collection.

Photos. This one is difficult. I don’t want my pictures digital, especially with AI becoming more and more meddling in our lives. I don’t want pictures of my kids to be used elsewhere… so I want to switch. But the convenience of capturing a moment on your phone in an instant is so…I can’t think of the word. But it’s hard to stop. Also I can receive photos of my nephews and nieces. I get to watch them grow up so conveniently. so again this one probably tied into the letter writing. Also scrap booking. Just think that takes time, that I barely have time for.

So I’m at war with this topic. I would love to ditch my digital world. But I don’t know if I will ever get to. Time will tell.

“Dare to go through the tunnel into a different way of life?“

Art, Creativity, Daily Prompts, Reflections

Two…

October 1, 2024 emily2jane 1 Comment

What skill would you like to learn?

Yes. There are two skills I would love to learn. One is unrealistic for me currently. But the other is possible.

The first one is be able to build anything I can think of. Carpentry skills. I have so many ideas that I would love to be able to just make them. But currently I’m pregnant. And I have so many other jobs to do when taking care of a family and household. That when I do magically have free time I don’t want to do anything productive. And that magical free time is going to dwindle away as the next baby comes.

But I’m so happy I’m married to a man who has over fifteen years of carpentry experience that he can bring my ideas to life. (If he had the time) but he can at least make them a reality.

The second skill is small, but I wish I knew how to spin the pizza dough in my hands like professionals do. I still use a rolling pin. But I would love to learn that skill. But I don’t want to waste the dough by trying. So unless some true master of pizza came to our house I’ll just stick with my way of making pizza.

The master would at least be impressed that now I make my pizza sauce from scratch. So I might impress them with my skills of making things from scratch.

This skill would be useful because my family seems wants to eat pizza at least once a week.

And I will say, even though I can’t build things. My husband says I’m a great helper when he is building. I’m good at helping. Helping is easier when I have no idea what’s going on. I just hold things when they need to be held, or give things when things are needed. So I am helping to build my ideas. The construction plan is him, but I’m helping with the inspiration and execution.

In case anyone is looking for a great pizza sauce recipe.

https://thefoodcharlatan.com/pizza-sauce-recipe/#wprm-recipe-container-24708

It says to use canned tomatoes. I just use 28 oz of fresh tomatoes. With their skins on. And I cook it for 30min.

Art, Creativity, Reflections

A Battle.

September 2, 2024 emily2jane Leave a comment

‘You can. It won’t hurt you. Just try it for a moment.’

“No! It will hurt me. I’m not going to do it again.”

‘You know you want to. If you don’t do it now you are just going to dream it.’

“No. I’m stronger. I can stay honest.”

‘Staying honest is not easy. Just take the easy route. Come and try again. You know you want to.’

“Stay strong. Stay strong.”

‘You are strong. That’s why you should try again. You are strong enough to have self control. I’m sure you will stop after this time.’

“I should stop now. Don’t falter. It’s trying to trick you.”

‘I’m not trying to trick you. I’m trying to encourage you to enjoy some happiness; instead of hiding from it. Come.’

“Maybe I could try for a short moment. Maybe I would be able to stop on my own terms. Maybe…”

‘Yes. Yes. You know yourself. You know what is good for you. You know what you need. This can help you.’

“It might help me. I’ve been having a feeling that something was missing from my life. Maybe this is it. The thing that helps me relax.”

‘You deserve to relax after everything you have gone through these last few days. You owe it to yourself to unwind and enjoy your quiet time. Come.’

“Yeah. Nothing is wrong about enjoying something. That it helps me relax after a long hard day. I deserve this after all my sacrifice throughout the day.”

‘So true. Come.’

“But wait…should I be doing this? I have been good for several days. And I always feel nauseous and disgusted after doing it again. Maybe…”

‘Don’t listen to anyone but me. I’m on your side. The other voice is trying to take away all the joy in your life. Just listen to me and find the finer things in life.’

“Right. Think about me, and what I want. Okay!”

‘Good. Good.’

…Moments later…

“I feel sick to my stomach. Please forgive me God! Why did I do that? Why would I listen to that voice.”

‘Because everyone always listens to me. I’m the voice everyone try’s to ignore and stay away from. But they always crumble and listen eventually. I revel in your defeat! Victory is on my side!’

“What have I done? What have I done? Forgive me. Please heal my heart and clean my soul. Make me stronger. Make me able to withstand the voice of darkness. But also, make me better at listening to the voice of lightness. Please help me.”

‘You don’t actually mean that. Why would you not want me. I’m…’

“No! I’m done listening to you. Shut up and leave!”

‘But…’

“LEAVE!!”

Silence…

“Can you forgive me? Can you let me know you hear me?”

‘You did fail at listening to my voice. I’m not the voice to be a kill joy. I’m the voice to keep you on your path. The only path. But you continue to falter and listen to the voice of darkness. You block out my calls.’

“I’m so sorry. Please! Forgive me. I need you to be louder. Be louder than the other voice.”

‘I am loud. But you deafen me by ignoring my calls. You would rather fail than fight. You need to fight with me, and not against me.’

“I’m going to! I will! I promise!”

‘Your promises never seem to last long. It’s been about a week since our last conversation. Will you fight with me for all the years to come. To never sub-come to hear the other voice. Block it out from your ears?’

“I want to!! I’ve been trying to. It’s just so hard. But I’m going to. Today. I will fight alongside of you. Let us be one. Show me the path.”

‘Okay. Let’s go.’

…

Everyone struggles with something. And not everyone will have these types of conversations inside their bodies, but it can happen. It’s a battle between you, a demon, and the Holy Spirt. You can be strong for years, weeks, or days. And then falter. No one is perfect.

But you can fight it. God will help you. You just have to fight the fight with Him.

Fight the Fight!!

Inspired by today’s post.

Art, Creativity, Short Stories, Uncategorized

Short Story #8

August 17, 2024 emily2jane Leave a comment

There is a guy in my class. He’s fascinating to me. He has dark black hair, but his seems natural unlike mine. He has a deep tan and he seems fit. But what is fascinating is that he seems to always be moving. Like right now, as we sit in class, his leg is twitching; like he’s itching to be gone. And like clockwork just before time is up he starts to gather up his belongings and shove it all into his backpack. The professor calls out class is over and he is gone. He fascinates me.

…The Next Day…

I plan to follow him today. I don’t have any classes or plans after this class, and I need a distraction. So as he gathered up his books, I did the same. I sat strategically in the back so that he would have to pass me to leave; then, I could just follow him. The professor called out and the following begins now.

I hadn’t even thought about the possibility that he might ride a bike. But thankfully he stuck to walking. More like speed walking. I had a tough time keeping him in my sights. Where did he have to be so quickly? But then he turned and walked into a cute little cafe. I thought he had stopped for a drink, but instead he pulled an apron up over his head and began working. Wow he had a job! Right after class too; that’s so cool! I decided I would just be a customer; until the end of his shift at least. I sat down and just as I got settled he came to my table.

“You have to order at the counter,” and he walked away.

I thought I was going to get a chance to talk to him but nope. Denied. So I took his advice and went and ordered a coffee and sandwich. I asked if it’s a bring to the table place or wait to take it? She answered to the former so I went and sat back down at my table. But again I felt his presence.

“Order number 2. Latte and sandwich. Is that right?”

He seemed to just stare through me, and not at me. Like he didn’t really want to be here. “Yep. That’s right. Thank you,” I tried to take the tray from him.

Instead he pulled it away and set the dishes down in front of me, and disappeared again. He really seemed to not be a talkative guy. But he was hardworking. Just like in class, he was constantly moving, and if he wasn’t he was twitching in place.

As the day went on I discovered that this guy was going to work until closing. Another worker told me after they saw me watching him so long. I decided to finish up my sandwich and head across the street to a bookstore. I couldn’t stay at the cafe for several hours. So instead I got another coffee and waited across the street, still watching the guy wiz through the tables doing his job.

Around 6pm, he finally left the cafe. He seemed to be slower; tired now. Which for me was great! I was able to keep up with his slow pace. I know it seems strange that I’m just following this guy around, but I need to focus elsewhere these next few months. And he does fascinate me. I wonder what he works so hard for.

So…this guy walks everywhere. We probably walked a good five miles before he hopped on a bus. Thankfully the bus seemed to wait or I would have missed it. We rode the bus maybe thirty minutes before he got off and started walking again. We walked another fifteen minutes before he headed inside a supermarket. Probably to grab some dinner for himself.

I stayed outside; finally taking in my surroundings. We were in a dark neighborhood. The only light was the one hanging above me from the supermarket sign. I wasn’t instantly scared or anything, but I realized that I might have jumped in too deep following him. There was movement around me, but I couldn’t see anything. Until a man walked up to me into the light and kept inching closer. Too close for my liking. “Can I help you?” I muttered out hoping to stop the moving closer.

But he just kept coming. Now I was scared. He was now in my personal bubble. I tried to step away but felt the brick wall behind me. I was trapped. Panic began to boil inside me until a hand grabbed my wrist.

“She’s with me. Back off,” the guy I had been following had pulled me behind him and now stood nose to nose with the creepy man.

The man just shrugged and moved away.

I let out a sigh of relief…

The guy turned in my direction gripping my shoulders tightly. “Are you crazy? Or just stupid?! Why would you follow me this far. I assumed when you noticed the distance you would have given up. Why are you so unaware. And why did you decide to follow me dressed like that. You could have been hurt or worse if I hadn’t stepped in.”

I was startled. I hadn’t thought of anything. I just wanted to get to know him. I just wanted to know why he worked so hard. I hadn’t thought about my clothes, but looking down, I noticed I was not dressed appropriately for the night. I was wearing a short skirt and tank top. “I’m sorry. I wasn’t thinking…I’m sorry.”

He sighed. He looked over his shoulder. “We need to go,” he grabbed my wrist, hopped onto the new bus, and just as the bus pulled away a group of men walked up to where we had been standing. “What is your plan for tonight?”

I hadn’t thought that far. I just didn’t want to be home. “I hadn’t thought that far ahead. Is there anything in your area where I could stay for a night?”

He gripped the back of his neck. “Not anywhere safe. You’ll have to stay at my home. But just know it is going to be loud. You probably won’t get to sleep until late. And your cover story will have to be that you are my girlfriend. You good with that for a night?”

His place. Loud. No sleep. What was happening? Girlfriend. That part scared me. Because that meant close. I’ve never been close to anyone. But then I noticed that he was still holding my wrist, and that he was only inches from me. He was in my bubble, and it didn’t seem to bother me. I wonder why? But then I remember he had asked if that was okay, and when I turned to answer he was blushing. Which made me feel at ease, “Yeah. That’s fine.”

Then we continued the bus ride in silence.

It was around 8pm when the bus finally stopped. Still holding my wrist we walked off the bus and through a neighborhood. It looked rough around the edges but you could still see in the windows of homes, glows of light and you could hear laughter. A home with neither of those things is not a home, but a place to live. A home is better.

He kept walking until he got to the front of another house. He paused, “I’m going to have to make dinner for my family. You will be left alone around them. They are loud, but are very welcoming. Will you be okay on your own?”

I didn’t know. But a family. That’s a nice word. A welcoming family. That’s even better. I nodded in response.

He slipped his hand down my wrist and held my hand instead.

Loud was an understatement. As soon as we came through the doors the whole house erupted with laughter and hugs. They welcomed home their precious son. Jason. Jason was his name. He seemed to be the whole center of this family. There were three little girls, a mom, and a grandma. And you could see the love. My heart pained with jealousy. It all quieted when they saw me.

All eyes were on me. As if instinct I grabbed onto Jason’s wrist. He looked back at me, probably seeing my red cheeks of embarrassment. He smirked. He turned back to his family, “this is Kate. She is my girlfriend. She wanted to meet all of you.” Still silence. “What happened to my welcoming family?”

When I thought they didn’t like me, suddenly they separated Jason and myself. Shoved him off into the kitchen and guided me to the small living room. Where the three little girls snuggled into me. And the mom and grandma seemed to look at me in curiosity.

One of the little girls scrambled up from my lap, “can I play with your hair? It’s so pretty!”

“Go ahead, I’ve always wanted to experience that.” All three little girls jumped up with excitement to disappear into their room. Only to come back with brushes and all kinds of clips falling from their small arms. While my long hair was pulled and brushed I faced the mom and grandma who had been silent through this exchange.

“Well…umm,” I tried to end the silence…

“Where did you meet Jason?” The mom said suddenly.

“How long have you been together?” The grandma chimed in.

“What is your life like?” The mom again.

“What does your family do?” The grandma again.

Everything but that last one was fine. “Jason and I are in the same business class. It’s not been long. My life is fine but felt empty before meeting Jason. And…”

“Enough grilling her. Or she won’t want to come back,” Jason came back into the room at the perfect moment. “Foods done. Let’s eat!”

Dinner was delicious. I now knew why Jason was always moving. He wanted to be home. And I can’t blame him. His family was wonderful.

…6 months later…

After that first visit, I was hooked. I had spent the night at his family’s home and Jason had taken me home the next day. He had told me that I might need to come to the house occasionally to keep up the facade; until we could break up amiably. But that I was never to follow him again, and that I should just take the bus the whole way there. Or take an Uber.

Well I did go to his home. But I went often. Any chance I got I was there. I loved all the care and love that was in his home. I was even there when Jason wasn’t. I would spend time with his sisters. Letting them do my hair, my makeup, and nails. I learned to cook from his mom and grandma. They taught me many different things like cleaning, laundry, etc.

So to reward their lessons, I put them to the test, and I would clean their house. I enjoyed it. It made me happy to help someone else. I would help tutor his sisters. They were only in kindergarten but I would help them when they asked questions. Jason’s family felt like family to me. Everything was perfect.

Until one night Jason came home to find me cleaning the kitchen. I had never done any cleaning in front of him. But this time I wanted him to be able to start making dinner in a clean kitchen.

“What are you doing?” Jason came in a set the groceries on the counter.

“I thought I would help clean up the…”

“You don’t need to do that. I don’t want you to do that. We don’t need your charity. Are you enjoying helping the poor family that is barely surviving? Does it make you feel good being all holy around my family, because you are better off than us? Stop! Just go back home to your rich family and tell them of your day of helping the low class. Go!”

I was stunned. I didn’t realize he saw me that way. I thought we had gotten closer over these few months. On his days off we would go walking in the park, or go on picnics with his sisters. I thought our relationship had changed into something closer. But instead he just saw me as a person trying to feel better by helping them. Which was far from the truth. I loved it here. I loved his family. I loved hi….no. I couldn’t go there. Because I now had to say goodbye to another family. I dropped the sponge and went out of the kitchen. I hugged the little girls one last time. I waved goodbye to the mom and grandma. I gathered up my belongings and left. Left another home.

…3 Months Later…

Jason

It had been three months since I had seen her again. I had, had a terrible customer at the cafe that day. A group of fellow students. They were all rich and snobbish. The guys were talking about Kate; about how she was just doing charity to be around me. I knew they were just pissed that she wanted to be around me and not them, but after three hours of them saying it over and over; then to come home to her cleaning the kitchen was just too much. I didn’t want her to only be there out of charity. Which I knew she wasn’t. But at that moment I lost it on her. I said everything I was feeling towards that group of jerks, but instead at her. The tears forming in her eyes told me I had made a mistake. But it was too late; she was gone when I went after her.

Now it had been three months and she had not come to school. Did she drop out? Did she switch majors? Where was she? I needed to at least apologize. She deserved that. I took the day off from working, I had hoped she would be here today, but again she was a no show. In her normal seat was a girl named Mary. I knew she was Kate’s friend. When the professor said class was done it was the first time I didn’t sprint out of here; instead I walked over to Mary, “where is Kate? She hasn’t been coming to class lately.”

Mary jumped suddenly. But then relaxed when she saw it was me.

I had met her a couple of times through Kate.

“Yeah. Kate took a semester off. She always does at this time of year. She doesn’t seem to care that college is going to take several extra years. But I can’t blame her; she never seems herself this time of year. Poor thing.”

I was confused. None of this made any sense. Kate. Smiling happy Kate. Kate who was happy spending time with me and my family. Not being herself, what? “What are you talking about. This is the same Kate we are talking about. Smiling Kate. Always happy Kate. That Kate?”

“You didn’t know? I assumed she would have told you. She spent so much time with you. She even confessed to me that she was hoping to become part of your family in the end. How is it that you didn’t know?” Mary looked away. I could see tears forming.

‘Part of my family? She wanted to be family with me? She liked me? I liked her too but I never thought those feeling would be reciprocated; so I never acted on them. Wait. Mary said how do I not know. What do I not know?’ “Explain.”

I sat on the bus mulling over what Mary had just told me. I couldn’t believe it.

…1 hour ago…

“Kate has no family. Her whole family died in a bad house fire when she was seven years old. Her mom, dad, brother, and sister. She was the youngest and in the farthest room. They say it was a miracle that she lived. But from that day onward she was an orphan. She had no other family; so she lived in an orphanage until she was eighteen. The trust her dad had left her was not active until then. He had a trust for each of his kids, but since she was the only one left living she inherited it all. So yes she was wealthy, but only in money. But as Kate always said, “not in what really mattered”. She would have traded all the money in the world for her family back.” Mary choked back some tears.

‘What!?!’

Mary continued, “always at this time of year her family’s accident resurfaces and she hides herself away. Because she can’t seem to hold in the tears; even after all this time. Which I had thought things would be different this time. Because even as the day was approaching she was still so happy. Because she had found what she had wanted all along. A family that wanted her. She told me all about how your family took her in and made her feel loved. It was the first time in her life she had felt that way since she was seven. I thought things would be different. But it seems like she can never escape it. And don’t ask me; I don’t know where she goes. She just disappears for about six months. She will come back in the Spring.”

…Back on the Bus…

I just sat there silent on the bus. Thinking back to what I had said to her that day. Doing charity. Feeling holy taking care of his family. Go back to her rich family and gloat. I dropped my head into my hands. No wonder she almost cried that day. I jabbed at all of her sore spots in one go. And now she was gone. I wasn’t going to see her again for three months. And she might just transfer to another school and never come back. What have I done?

When I stepped into the house; it was no longer the same as it was after the day Kate left. I was still greeted with love, but it seemed dulled a bit. Like they are hoping Kate will walk in right behind me. I needed to talk to mom and nana; they would probably know some things after spending so much time with her.

After my sisters went to sleep, I sat down for the grueling discussion. “Did you know anything about Kate’s past?”

My mom and nana looked at each other. They knew.

“How could you know and not tell me anything. After I said all those terrible things to her.”

Nana whacked me in the head, “that’s for saying all those awful things to her. She was already struggling that day. But she was trying to keep it together. She wanted to work through her pain and stay with us. She had said that we were healing her. But then you had to go and drive a knife through her patched heart. I watched it crumble apart as she left that day. I will be surprised if she can even function. She had to loose another family that day. How could you,” Nana was in uproar. She left the room promptly, because she didn’t want to cause more harm than she had already done.

I folded in half. Hunched over feeling defeated. Like there was no way to come back from this.

Mom walked over and hugged me. I needed the hug, but I felt guilty for the first time for getting one; because I knew that Kate wasn’t here to get one. “Mom, what do I do? She left. And I have no idea where to find her.”

“Oh my sweet son. She may need time to heal again. Your nana is wrong for hitting you, but she is not wrong that it would be a miracle that Kate stays. You were so young when we lost your father, but to me I wanted to run away and hide. But I stayed because I still had someone who needed me. Kate has no one. If she decides to hide, she sadly now has no reason to come back.”

“But I…”

“You took yourself out the equation that day. To her you abandoned her. And then she had to say goodbye to a new loving family. She is probably broken. We can just pray that she does come back.” Mom got up and went to follow nana to bed.

I sat there looking at my hands. ‘Please God. Give me a chance to apologize to her.’ That’s all I wanted. A chance to apologize.

My sister lily came tiptoeing into the living room. She handed me a post card. She whispered into my ear, “bring her back.” And just as quickly, lily disappeared back into her room.

…1 month later…

Kate

I wouldn’t say I ran away. I would more say I needed time away and with other children in the same boat. Every year at this time I take time off from school and I volunteer at the orphanage that brought me up. That’s why I’m getting the business degree. I’m hoping to help this orphanage out; help these kids find homes before they are adults. But even then, I’ll hope to have jobs available for the kids like me. The no home children.

That day when Jason chased me out of his home made me wake up. That I was just masking my pain with a new family. That I needed to first heal before trying to find a bandaid solution. But what Jason said would not be easily forgiven. It hurt so much that day, because that’s how he saw me. That he still, after all that time, didn’t know the real me.

I had sent a post card to his sisters because they are to young to understand why I just left that day. So I thought letters and postcards would help cushion the blow that I wouldn’t be coming back. Hopefully they listened and kept the letter from her brother. I don’t need him getting mad at me again.

But being at the orphanage again this time is healing me. I needed a push from wanting a new family to actually heal my heart. That I can be loved. Even if not by the first family I found. That I can always try again. That I am wanted. All of us are.

“Kate?” Mother Ann called.

“Yes. I’m over by the garden with group C.”

“There is a visitor for you. They are at the front gate,” Mother Ann came around the corner. “I’ll take over for your class. You go receive them.”

Who could be here for me. In the last fourteen years this has never happened. “Okay. No problem.”

Walking up to the front gate I saw a head. Head with black hair. What? How? I paused.

Jason turned around to face me. “Hey there.”

I wasn’t ready to talk to him. I thought I had healed. But I guess his words still stung. I didn’t want to talk to him. Instead of letting him in I turned and walked away. Quickly. I didn’t want to hear him.

“Hey.” Jason grabbed onto my wrist.

Just like the first day we met. But I tried to pull away from him.

“Stop Kate. I’m not going anywhere. And neither are you.” He pulled me into his embrace.

He was in my bubble. The action that used to bring me so much comfort just hurt me. Hadn’t he told me to leave and never come back. I hugged myself and stepped away from him. He didn’t try to stop me. He let me slip away.

I stood just out of his reach. Not letting him enter my bubble. I couldn’t feel that way again.

“I’m so sorry Kate. I didn’t mean anything I said that day. I just took out my frustration on you. I was stupid. I was crazy. I… please let me apologize. If I had known I would have never…”

“That’s just it, Jason. I didn’t want you to know. Because I didn’t want the so called pity you accused me of. I didn’t want you to allow me around because you felt sorry for me. I wanted to be accepted because you wanted me there. But I can see how I could upset you being there all the time, when you never really wanted me around. I’m sorry that I tried to get close to you. It won’t happen again. And…you came to me. I listened to you when you told me to leave, your the one who came to find me. You at least can’t get mad at me for that.” I felt my defense crumbling. I was being to shake. I knew that tears were well on their way. I needed to leave. Or he may get pleased in watching me wallow in sadness. “You’ve seen me. I’ve apologized. You can leave now.” I walked away. The distance between us was growing. Tears were spilling down my face. But since I was a distance away I didn’t feel so vulnerable sobbing; the only thing he might see is my shoulders shuddering.

“No.” Jason hugged me from behind. His arms were strong; no intention of letting go. “No. I wanted you. I’ve always wanted you around. I’m so sorry I made you feel unwanted that day. I’ve been regretting it every day, no, every second after. Come back home with me.”

Those last words rang in my ear. Come back home. Could I actually believe him. Did he actually want me back? I tried to release his arms from me, but they tightened around me.

“I love you, Kate. Please come back and be my family.”

I stopped struggling. I froze. He loves me? Someone loves me? I managed to turn myself around to face him in his embrace. I stared into his eyes; eyes never lie. His face was flush as stared at him. “Do you really? Or is it just pit…”

He kissed me. He squeezed me tighter. I almost couldn’t breathe. But I think I can believe him. That he loves me. I kissed him back.

…The End…

Art, Creativity, Daily Prompts, Reflections, Uncategorized

Things…

May 26, 2024 emily2jane Leave a comment

What are you good at?

I could list the “easy answers”, but I want to go more in depth. (The quotations is because I like to do the things, but I’m not claiming to be the best.)

I could list art, writing, swimming, dancing, etc. However I want to list other things I’m good at. That are unique to me.

Like I’m good at being a fair referee. No matter if I’m playing or not I want it to be kept fair. This was a skill I needed in coaching. No matter what, I kept it fair. Especially in ultimate frisbee. So much cheating would have gone on if I didn’t keep them honest.

I am also good at befriending the ones left behind. I would say I prefer it. Usually there is that friend that doesn’t fit into the group; and the group alienates them. Unless for severe reasons, I usually gravitate to those types of people. Being different is not a bad thing; it’s just different. My favorite saying is, “Normal is a setting on a washing machine.” I don’t know where it came from but that’s pretty much my motto.

I’m good at not procrastinating. This helped a lot when I was in high school and community college. I was the student to get the homework done weeks before it was due. (I was a definite teacher pet…) but I would turn in the assignments early so that the teacher could give me feedback so that my assignments would receive A+!! Yes, I was that student.

I think I’m also good at admitting when I’m wrong. This one has taken many years; but I believe I’ve gotten somewhat better at. But believe me, there are times where I want to be petty and not say a word, but I’ve come to realization that it’s hurting me not the other person. For me to be happy, I need to admit mistakes, forgive, and move onward.

Thinking outside the box is actually quite difficult. Because you may start off thinking you’re one thing, but putting it into words is impossible.

Have a wonderful Sunday 🥰

Art, Creativity, Short Stories, Uncategorized

Short Story #7

May 25, 2024 emily2jane Leave a comment

“Hi Mr. David! Hi Mr. Max! Hi Mr. Charles!” I called to the men that have been in my life since forever.

I think I first met them all when I was about five years old. They were introduced to me the same as I called to them today. It’s crazy it’s already been fifteen years. Time has flown by, but I’ve loved every moment of it.

“Hey Mr. David, have you seen my dad anywhere?”

“I uh…I think his up on the roof. I’ll get him for ya. One sec,” Mr. David disappeared over to the other side of the roof.

Just like dad. Leaving the hard work for himself. “Dad!” I waved.

“Hey sweetheart. Give me a sec. I’m almost done up here. Maybe 10min.”

“No problem, Dad. I’ll just be in the house figuring out the furniture layout.”

“Thanks!” And Dad disappeared again.

Little backstory:

My parents got pregnant way too early. My dad was only fifteen. I guess my mom was terrified and was trying to figure it all out. When my dad told her that he would take full custody of me and my mom wouldn’t have to be involved; which she never has. So I was brought up by my dad and my grandparents. So much love! More than enough to make me into the young woman I am now.

After I graduated high school, I went into the family business. Flipping homes. Dad and the crew does all the work and I do the designing part of it all. I had no desire to go to college. Dad and the crew was enough social life for me. I’m not an introvert but I’m definitely not an extrovert; I’m just neutral. Boring. But I love my life.

Back to Present:

“Hey sweetie, sorry. I just didn’t want to leave the roof unfinished in case of bad weather.”

My dad was just over six feet, dusty blonde hair, he says chiseled good looks, and one of the happiest smiles I’ve ever seen. I got that smile too!

“Totally understand Dad.” As I too finished up a thought and jotted it down on paper. “So Dad, did you hire a new hand? This project is bigger than the last. And Mr. Charles is going to be leaving for a couple months.”

“Ummm…no” Dad mumbled out the words.

“Dad!”

“Sorry sweetheart, it just got away from me. You know me, I’m terrible at remembering these things. I just get into my mode and get things done. I don’t know if we will have to hire someone. We might be able to…”

“No Dad. Mr. David said we need another set of hands. Preferably a younger set of hands that can do more of the physical labor. Should I send out a chat In Search Of? I could.”

“No, hon. It’s more of a feeling thing. Like the vibe of the person more than here say. Some woman might think her son is great, but he ends up being a lazy turd. Then I have to burn a bridge. No, I’ll find the person.”

“Hey Boss,” Mr. David stuck his head in the door. “We are strangely out of two by fours and we need about twenty more.”

“Also ten four by fours,” Mr. Charles called out somewhere.

“Drat. I thought I counted right. Okay, no problem. Sweetheart do you mind doing this run?”

“No problem Dad. But while I’m gone search for someone.” I gathered up my bag about to head out.

“Hey hon, you keep your guard up, but if while you are there and you get the right kind of vibe from someone offer them the job. There are always handy people at Home Depot.”

“Okay Dad,” with no real understanding of what vibe Dad wanted. But I never said no to him. He could count on me for anything.

Home Depot. The store of creativity…and debt. We spend so much money at Home Depot; but there is no better alternative where we are currently. But I still love this place. I love the wood smell.

Dad is always right; the parking lot was filled with people standing around. Many of them had signs with them reading ‘Will work. No English.’ That wouldn’t work for us. But there was one man sitting against the building by the entrance. He was hunched over himself. He was in rough shape. I got a shiver down my spine and I turned away from my curiosity only to be stopped by the voice.

‘Speak to him.’

You know that subconscious voice you hear sometimes, that’s the Holy Spirt talking to you. And I know from past experiences you don’t ignore it.

But still I was worried. The man didn’t seem to be awake. What if he was hyped up on drugs. What if he attacked me. What if…?

‘Speak to him. I will protect you.’

“Excuse me? Are you alright?” I crouched down by the man. I could hear his breathing. “Sir?” I tapped him on the shoulder.

His head snapped up and he suddenly crawled backwards away from me. “Sorry. You scared the crap out of me! What were you saying?”

The man was dirty to say the least, but he just looked tired and skinny when I was close up. “I just asked if you were alright? You weren’t moving, I was worried for you.”

“Oh. Thanks. But I’m okay. I just lost all my strength and decided to just sleep. Sleeping stops your hunger.” As he spoke, he instantly grabbed at his stomach. A loud growl came from it.

‘Feed him.’

“I’m a little hungry too. You want to stop over at Wendy’s for some lunch? My treat,” I gathered myself up and stretched my hand out to him.

He just stared at my hand. But I think his stomach moved before he did and he accepted my hand and walked with me over to Wendy’s.

The guy’s name was Stephen. He lost all his family, home, job, everything in the last year. He had been living in his car until it too decided to stop working today in the Home Depot parking lot. He had been hoping to find honest work. But the last job he did the employer didn’t pay him after the work was done. That’s the problem about working under the table; they can decide to not pay and you don’t have a say.

‘Hire him.’

“I was already going to do that.” I smirked.

“Do what?” Stephen asked as he shoved his last bite in his mouth. He ate four cheeseburgers.

“Oh. I was going to offer you a job. My dad owns a construction company and we’ve been doing house flipping. we are looking for a hired hand; it could be part time or full time employment. Would you be interested?”

Stephen just looked at me. “You are too trusting. How do you know I’m not a bad guy? How do you know I’m not going to attack you? You should keep your guard up when meeting strangers.”

“God told me to talk to you. He has been guiding me this whole time. If He had not spoken; I would have passed you by. You would still be sitting against the building starving. But I listen when He speaks.”

Stephen was now just looking at me like I was crazy. I don’t blame him. People who don’t know what I’m talking about always think I’m crazy. “Okay. Let’s say I believe you. What would the job entail? What’s the pay like? Would I get a bonus for signing up so I could get an apartment?”

“If you are interested you can come with me and discuss it with my dad. He knows all the answers to the questions you asked.” I cleaned up my space and grabbed my bag. “You coming? If you are, your coming back to Home Depot with me. I need to grab a couple things. No matter what happens I will pay you for your time. You in?”

He stood, “I’m in.”

… Six Months Later

To say the least. Stephen accepted the job. Instead of getting him a bonus for an apartment, Mr. David had a back house that he rented to him for dirt cheap. Which meant he was able carpool to the job sites. Sweet gig. My dad had been questionable about my selection when I had gotten back, but after Stephen telling my dad that a voice told me to hire him; Dad understood.

Stephen actually did great work. As long as he had food in his system. No food meant exhaustion for him. Which is totally understandable because the rest of the crew were older guys; and they decided Stephen should do all the heavy lifting.

But to me Stephen has change these last six months. He was no longer dirty. He had gotten a tan, and stronger. And he had a great smile. When he would laugh with the other guys, you would catch a glimpse of a dimple on the right side of his face.

I don’t know how I really felt about him. I might like him, but I don’t know if it’s just familiarity. Maybe he isn’t supposed to be my other half, but to stay one of the crew. Be my family just in name. “I don’t know….ugh…feelings are so complicated.”

“What feelings?”

That startled me and I jumped away from my laptop. I had been searching for different furniture options. Stephen was standing next to it now. “Oh. Stephen, you startled me. Make your presence known when you are walking up. Geesh…” I giggled.

“Sorry Katie. I thought you could hear me. Will do next time. But what feelings are difficult?”

“Oh. Never mind that. Did you need something?” Change the subject or I was about the change to a vibrant red color over my face.

“Yeah. Your dad is sending us to Home Depot. His words. I do the work you are the bank,” he shook his head a laughed.

My heart fluttered. Nope. I’m not going to do this now. Also I don’t know if he is a believer or not. Obviously if he’s not nothing would start. I pushed my feelings down deep, gathered up my bag and headed to the car. I didn’t even wait for Stephen; I just went.

“Are we good? You seem to be ignoring me lately? Did I do something wrong?”

I sighed, “No. you’re good. I’m just confused. Once things are figured out I’ll go back to normal. You can just ignore me too,” I climbed out of the car.

We just walked in silence until we again were at the spot where we met. Stephen ran over to it and squatted down. “Look familiar?”

I laughed. “Yes. Only you are cleaner now.”

“Good. You smiled,” I almost didn’t catch that since he whispered. Stephen stood up dusting himself off.

“Stephen!?!”

I turned to see a young woman run up and hug Stephen. Stephen just stood there glued to the ground. His arms hanging by his sides. He seemed uncomfortable.

“Stephen. Do you know her?” I had stepped up and touched Stephen’s arms.

Stephen reacted. He shoved the woman off of him and grabbed my wrist pulling me behind him. “Stay quiet. Don’t speak,” Stephen whispered to me over his shoulder.

I was stunned but not as shocked as the woman across from us. She looked confused, hurt, and starting to get angry.

“Wow Stephen. That’s no way to treat your old girlfriend. Just because you found someone new doesn’t mean I’ll ever go away…” the woman spoke but her words slurred a bit. Like she was drunk.

That hurt me; I didn’t know he had liked someone before. I tried to walk away, but Stephen held me firm behind him, even pulled me closer to his back. The muscles in his shoulders were tense. He didn’t trust her…so I decided to stay quiet and still.

“Amanda. Why lie? We were never together. You would just follow me around trying to get me to buy you booze. I’m good now. I have a job, a great boss, and…” Stephen’s body shifted, “good friends now.”

I didn’t expect him to say he loved me or anything. But friends…friends mean no feelings. I think I just got my answer. I felt my heart sink, until Stephen’s grip on my wrist softened and then tightened again. What did that mean?

“So I still have a chance huh? Just a friend…” Amanda chuckled with snorts.

“Never had a chance. Never will have a future chance. Just leave Amanda. I’m working right now. If you harass us again I’ll call the cops. Just remember there is no booze in jail.”

Amanda didn’t like that last part the most. She glared in my direction but still walked away.

Stephen’s body finally relaxed. His grip on my wrist also loosened.

I didn’t really want to, but I backed away from Stephen. “So we should go do what Dad wanted us to do,” I started to walk towards the entrance. “Why does something always happen when we come to this Home Depot. Maybe we should find a new one.” I was almost to the doors when I noticed that Stephen was still standing where I left him. I walked back to him, “you good? Can we do what we came to do?”

Stephen continued to be silent. I thought he was ignoring me like I had told him to do, but the look of pain and confusion on his face told me otherwise. He was trying to mull something over in his heart and mind.

“Stephen?” I again touched his arm.

He jumped at my touch. But when he saw me he latched onto my hands. “How am I supposed to listen to the voice calling out to me? What if something bad had happened? I listened and you could have gotten hurt. She could have hurt you. Is this how you feel every time? Why would you do this to yourself? Can I make it stop?…”

He was rambling! I just pulled him towards me and hugged him. From what I gathered from his spattering, was that God was trying to help him, to reach him, but he didn’t know what to do or if he wanted to. “God, please help him,” I sent out a silent prayer. Stephen’s body began to slow and then he just collapsed into my arms. He was lifeless. He was breathing, but he was unresponsive. I dragged him over to the spot where I had first met Stephen years ago and just sat there with him. God was doing his thing, but in a calmer way. Stephen and God we’re probably having a full on discussion and it took all his energy. I pulled my phone out, “Hey Dad. Could you come over here please.” I summarized what had happened. “You are just better at talking to people about becoming a Christian. I think you would be able to help Stephen. Can you come please?”

“Of course, sweetheart. I’ll be there in five.”

…The End…

Digital Art
By: emily2jane
05-25-24
‘*Joy’*

Art, Creativity, Daily Prompts, Reflections

Yes! To Me…

May 23, 2024 emily2jane 1 Comment

Do you have any collections?

I actually have a few things I have collected over the years.

The first: Glass figurines.

I don’t know why I actually started to collect them. I think it was because my grandma really enjoyed buying them and gifting them to me. I can remember the first one well. My grandparents took me to Disneyland for a birthday, and my grandma bought me a sleeping beauty figurine. That was the start. Then for every birthday she gave me a new figurine. I have so many, but with little kiddos they have been living in a box a few years. Once my daughter is bigger I’ll let her see them.

Number two: Physical Movies.

I know the world has become digital over the years but I love owning dvd or blu ray movies. My family has always done this. I’m always wanting to add to my collection; as I walk by the five dollar Walmart bin. I once dug through that bin and organized it. Tells you what a party person I was when I was a teenager. I found it quite fun to do, a late night at Walmart. Haha!

My husband’s and mine’s movies almost filled one of those sleeved cases. Two hundred total.

Third Collection: Awards

This one doesn’t seem like a collection, but I’ve kept all my ribbons, medals, trophies, and plaques, from my many years of swimming. That bin weighs a ton. But in the past I’ve enjoyed pulling them out and thinking back to those days. They were some of my favorite memories. From the age four all the way to nineteen. I don’t know what I’ll do with them later on in life… but I like them, so I will move the heavy bin around from home to home. (Or the husband will move the heavy bin. It really is heavy!)

I have other things I’ve collected. Decks of cards, dice, art supplies, books, stuffed animals, etc.

I have troubles with throwing things away. Or giving things away. Because you never know when you want to play cards, and I’ve slowly collected them over the years from different places.

When you are about to play a board game and it’s missing the dice….? I can help.

Art supplies. I never have to buy any. I just take the supplies that people are giving away.

Books. I’m planning on homeschooling my kids so depending on where we end up living I want to have almost a library of books. Also…then there is no fear of a weird inappropriate book coming into my home. Every book in our home I’ve read and approved.

Stuffed animals. I kept a large percentage of my childhood stuffed animals. Which worked great with our kiddos. They both love the various animals.

So even though I collect various things they all have a purpose. It works out; my husband also likes to collect things. But his collections seem to always need to spend more money. Haha! My collections are cheap, whereas I try to keep him on budget.

Enjoy your Thursday!! Hubby is home!! The house is a happy house once again.

Randomly started snowing today. The snow flakes looked almost the size of my sons hands.

Art, Creativity, Short Stories, Uncategorized

Short Story #6

May 21, 2024 emily2jane 1 Comment

I’m giving up. I’ve been proactive for 12 years now. I’ve been trying to get him to see me in new light. Not as the little girl that would tag along with my brother and his friends. Instead, I have a good job, I come to Mark’s classes on the days I can make. Coincidentally Mark teaches on chemistry, which ties into my job; so it’s not only a way for me to see him, but it is also helping my career. But I think I’m going to give it all up. Nothing seems to work. Maybe he’ll just see me as that little girl all his life. It feels like it’s time to be proactive in finding someone who actually wants me; not just a fake fairytale.

Yes! So after today’s class I’ll let Mark know that I won’t be coming back after this week is over, and he can fill my spot with another student. He will probably be thrilled not to have me around anymore. That’s only three more days including today. I payed for it, I’m going to finish it.

I settle down into my normal seat in the class, ready to soak up as much knowledge as possible. I’ve been doing that, I’ve been doing all the assignments, all the homework, everything. Even though I’ve already graduated college two years ago.

I wonder if I’ll be as proactive as I have been? Or maybe I should let the guy initiate? It’s hard to say…

‘Mark!’ Mark just walked into the classroom to his podium. ‘Agh…I’m going to have to train my brain to stop doing that.’

“Class begins now,” Mark called out to the students.

‘Focus, Jane. You are here to learn.’ This might be harder than I thought.

“Dismissed.”

Wow. That class was jammed packed full of so much information. I’m glad I didn’t decide to give up last week. But now onto the harder stuff.

As I walked towards the podium, I tried to gage Mark. Was he in a good mood? A forgiving mood? But as always I could never tell what he was thinking.

I let him answer the questions of his normal students. They had exams coming up. I remember exams…

As last student had walked away, “Mark?”

“Jane. You know I prefer Prof. Walter at school. Just because we know each other you should still be conscience of your surroundings.”

‘Yeah. This is not something that will be a good addition to my life. I need to give up.’ “Okay, Professor Walter. I’ll call you that until the end of the week. And then you can fill my seat. I’ve learned plenty from you and I think I should focus more on my future, and whatever it entails. Thank you for all the knowledge you have given to me this last year, but I should stop now. Thank you again,” I turned in my homework assignment and walked out of the classroom. ‘Strange? I wasn’t concerned about his feelings. I wasn’t concerned about giving him a chance to speak. I just knew that I was done. I had given too many years to a non existent fairytale. Reality was needed now. I deserved happiness.’

…

Mark

I still stood at podium. It had been almost 10 minutes since Jane left. ‘What just happened? She’s not going to come back?’

In the beginning, I was not thrilled at the idea of having Jeff’s little sister sit in on my class. I thought she had just wanted to come and stare at me, it she actually did some amazing work. She is actually really gifted in chemistry. I’ve enjoyed getting her assignments back and seeing what she comes up with. I thought all was well in the world.

But she was different today. She was indifferent to me. She didn’t seem to care at all that she was going to leave. I know she likes me, or knew… But I’m not a fun person. I’m boring. I thought after she got to know me over time she would give up and find someone else. Like everyone else does. She’s grown into a beautiful, talented, energetic young women. I didn’t want her to settle for me; just because she liked me years ago. I was giving her an out….right?

I pulled out my phone…

“Hello?”

“Jeff. What’s up with your sister? She seemed indifferent to me today? What does that mean?”

Laughter exploded from Jeff’s side, “so she finally gave up on you, huh?”

‘Really? But I should feel glad. I wanted that to happen. Right?’

“I guess.”

“Bro. My sister has had a crush on you for twelve years. How long did you expect her to keep it up? Believe me I was not a fan when we were younger, but what’s so wrong with her now? She’s brilliant. She’s hardworking. She’s beautiful. You’re pretty much an idiot for letting her go. I’m just glad that you never broke her heart. I would have killed you.”

The laughter was gone from Jeff’s voice, “but I didn’t want to start anything with her and end up breaking her heart because I’m not a fun person. You know me. I’m boring. I’m a nerd. I don’t know what to do for dating.”

“That’s a coward’s excuse. Why are you such an idiot. You are a professor. You expect your students to learn a subject that they don’t understand. So why can’t you learn about something you don’t understand. There are books, speakers, online communities, and various other options. Even if your not the best at something you can always learn how to be better at it.”

‘That was true. I could learn. But did I really want to try?’

“If your questioning whether or not you want to try; then ask yourself this question…. Will I be okay is she dates someone else. Marry someone else? Has another man’s kid? Because bro it’s bound to happen. My sister is top notch. Just because you didn’t start things with her she is bound to have many men going after her. And this is nothing new. She has had several suitors already through the years but her heart was set on you. Also you said she was indifferent to you so she’s already made up her mind. You don’t have much time until that window is closed forever. If you’re going to try I would get going. Whatever you decide we are still buds. See ya bro.”

I was gone.

…

Jane

I didn’t realize that giving up on a crush would bring life and pep back into my step. Was this college campus always this beautiful? My life was been revolving around Mark all these years that I haven’t really been paying attention.

“Excuse me,”

A very handsome man had walked up to me. “Yes?”

“You are just my type, do you think I could get your number?”

‘Oh. I didn’t realize I would be meeting someone so soon. But my first thought was Mark. So I guess I wasn’t ready.’ “I am flattered. But I just stopped a long time crush today and I don’t think I am quite ready to start a new relationship. I don’t want to bring any baggage with me when I start something new. Im sorry.”

“No worries at all. But your answer why was still perfect. How about this,” he reached in his backpack for a piece of paper, “I’ll leave my name and number. And if you ever decide you are ready to start seeing someone else, call me up.” And he ran to catch up with his group.

I stood there holding the paper. The name Jason was next to a number. I didn’t realize saying no to fairytale would awaken reality so quickly. I folded the paper and shoved it in my back pant pocket. Maybe I would take Jason up on his offer after some time. Maybe…

There stood Mark.

…

Mark

I was sweating and panting. I probably looked crazy. I was usually quite calm and collected. But not now. And especially not after what I just watched. How a guy just handed Jane a piece of paper, probably his number, and she tucked it into her pocket. Jeff was right. Jane was going to be snatched and taken away if I didn’t move fast.

“Jane. Wait.”

“What do you want Professor Walters? I believe I said all I needed to say earlier.”

‘Ouch. I deserved that. I didn’t think she would shut me out this quickly.’ “You can call me Mark now. We are just in the classroom and I wanted to stay professional just in case some students were still around. We can talk freely now.”

“I don’t think we can. Because technically I’m still your student. So I should too, stay professional. Did you have anything to say? If not I’m going to head home.”

She was walking away from me. My chance was slipping away. ‘No.’

“Jane! Please stop,” I was holding onto her, her hand to be exact. It felt right. “Jane. I’m sorry. I’ve been treating you badly. I didn’t realize how I felt until you said you were leaving. I didn’t want to start anything with you because I was worried I would break your heart because I’m a boring person. I didn’t want to ruin your youth. I don’t know what I’m really trying to say. But I know I want to date you. I’ll do anything possible to make you happy. I’ll do research and figure out dating. Just please don’t leave.” ‘I probably sounded like an idiot. And I am. Definitely an idiot for letting this go on so long. I’m surprised she didn’t leave sooner.’

She wasn’t moving. She just had her back towards me. But her hand was still in mine. She hadn’t tried to yank it away. She was still here.

…

Jane

‘What’s going on? Is this really happening? Mark is clutching my hand. He’s telling me he wants to date me. He doesn’t want me to leave. How am I supposed to respond. Only twenty minutes ago, I did decide I would give up on him. Was I supposed to take that all back and accept him? Or do I stand my ground and walk away?’

“Jane. Please look at me?”

My heart fluttered at his words. ‘No heart.’ But I still turned to face him. And my heart fluttered again. This was a new Mark in front of me. He looked disheveled and completely out of sorts. But he still looked handsome to me. Maybe more handsome. My heart was fluttering faster, as I just stared at him. “What do you want Mark,” I could feel the tears startling to well up.

“Jane. Please give me another chance. I’m so sorry I made you feel so alone this whole time. I didn’t realize I was still pushing you away these last eight months. I thought I was growing closer to you. But I’m realizing now that I never changed on the outside. I’m sorry,” he pulled me closer to him, “do I still have chance?”

My heart was screaming Yes! But my mind was trying to talk me out of it. This was the closest I had been to Mark. He was only inches from me. How I wished he would pull me closer to him. I knew my answer, after that. It was always a yes. It was always going to be him. “Yes. You have a chance.”

Nothing. I looked up into Mark’s eyes and he looked so happy and seemed to relax a bit. But we just stood there.

“Sorry. I haven’t had a chance to research yet, so I don’t know what is considered appropriate at the beginning of a relationship…”

‘He’s so cute.’ So instead I took the initiative and took the step towards him. Letting go of his hand I wrapped my arms around his waist and waited for Mark to react. And he did. He hugged me back.

…

Jane

It’s only been eight hours since Mark and I started dating. And we pretty much just walked hand in hand all over the campus. Until now, Mark is driving me home. It feels so surreal. Mark is my boyfriend. And even though dating is not what I thought; it’s been quite cute to watch him being unsure of how to act. He’s probably going to go home and research things; and he’ll be completely different tomorrow.

We just pulled up in front of my house. We’ve been holding hands the entire time. Mark is now looking at our hands interlocked. Pondering something. And he pulls away from me.

‘What’s this? Is he regretting it already? I was able to handle rejection, but not this.’ Panic filled me until he was walking around and opened my door for me. ‘Sweet.’ Then he quickly grabbed my hand again.

“I don’t know how I’m supposed to let you go tonight if letting go of your hand to exit a car is difficult for me.”

‘Cute.’ I gripped his hand back. “I know what you mean. I don’t want this night to end, because it doesn’t seem real. Like it’s all a dream,” I moved closer and also grabbed his arm. I was trying to say it in a laughable tone, but I realized how much I actually meant it.

Mark stopped walking. He turned to me and pulled me closer. He kissed my forehead.

‘He kissed me!!!!’

“I don’t want to move too fast, but is it more real now?”

I was smiling. I was smiling on the inside, and I’m sure I was smiling stupidly on the outside. I couldn’t seem to form words so I just l nodded.

Mark chuckled, “Cutie,” and he pulled me closer to him as he walked me to my door.

I didn’t want to leave him but I knew we had the rest of our lives. I squeezed his hand before starting to step away.

But he stopped me. He pulled me in for another hug. “You need to do one thing for me.”

“What?!”

“Give me the paper in your pant back pocket,” he held out his hand.

‘What paper? Oh, haha!’ I dug the paper out of my pocket and placed it into Mark’s hand. “I had completely forgotten about that.”

“I’ve been wanting to get that paper away from you since I saw that guy give it to you.” Mark crumpled the paper in his hand and tossed it into the trashcan beside us.

I didn’t want him worry about it anymore and I moved into his embrace. Then I only whispered, “you don’t have to worry. You are all I want.” He relaxed into me and hugged me back.

I didn’t want to pull away, but we couldn’t stay in this position forever. I pulled back from him and looked up into his face, “I’ll see you tomorrow?”

He looked down into mine. Our faces inches apart. “Yes. You’ll see me tomorrow.”

We didn’t move. I wanted to kiss him, but I wasn’t going to initiate this.

“I know it’s too soon, but may I?” His eyes seemed to plead with me.

I only nodded.

And he lowered his face to mine and kissed me. A deep kiss, that I would remember forever.

The first of many. A kiss from Mark; my fairytale love.

The End

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