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Remembering Olsen

 

                             

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

for

 

everyone who knows someone who needs to do it all over again

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER ONE

 

                                     

Dim lights, soft music, camera flashes, a rumble of reacquainted voices fill a small, well-decorated catering hall.

A faceless man in a blue suit walks past a banner across the back wall that reads, WELCOME CLASS OF 1996. He stops for a moment in front of the juke box. The lights on it flash. Standing beside it is a man in a grey suit. His face is visible, but only for a moment.

The man in the blue suit looks as if he is going to point at the man in the grey suit. He doesn’t. His finger moves forward and points to the jukebox.

He continues walking, shaking hands with other well dressed men. A woman stops him with her hand on his chest. She stretches her legs in high heel shoes so her lips can reach his ear, then she whispers. She laughs and the man continues to walk.

He stops at the bar where a young man and a young woman greet him. The bartender hands the young man a drink. He sips it and then the bartender hands him another. He passes the second drink to a waitress who places it on her tray with a collection of others.

The new drink sits on a napkin and makes a trip around the room passing happy faces. Some guests move around as if reenacting memories from their past. Others look on and laugh.

A group of men stand together holding their drinks at their sides while belting out lyrics to old favorite tunes.

The glasses sit still on the tray when the waitress stops momentarily. A blurred man and woman carry on a conversation over the music at a table as the waitress puts their drinks down.

“That’s something a family can never get over.” The woman has a serious look.

“Especially his dad.” The man is equally somber.

The woman acknowledges the waitress and speaks softly to her. “Thank you.”

“Yes, thank you very much.” The man grins.

The waitress smiles and collects some empty glasses off of the table.

The woman bobs her head back and forth to see the man behind the waitress’ arm to continue their conversation. The man follows her head back and forth.

“Do you think his dad had any indication?” The woman picks up her glass. The man shakes his head sadly.

The rest of the glasses on the tray begin to move again as the waitress makes her way to the next table.

Once again, she places drinks down on a table. This one seats three men in mid conversation.

“She didn’t want you then. You think something changed in the last ten years?”

They all laugh.

“Hey, a lot about me has changed in the    last ten years.”

“Yea, less hair, less money, and less reason to look at you now.” 

They all laugh again, including the waitress.

“There’s more.”

“Yep, more stomach, more     naps, more.”

The second man cuts him off. “All right, we get the idea.”

There is more laughter. The waitress begins to step away with a big smile.

The third man calls to her before she can get very far.   “Thanks sweetheart. We’ll take another round on your way back.” He slides a twenty dollar bill on her tray as she smiles and begins to make her way around the room again.

As a wet ring forms on the bill under a glass, the first mans voice is heard from behind. “Keep em’ coming doll.”

The waitress clears off some empty glasses at another table seating two women. A third stands speaking with a man behind the two.

The man excuses himself from the conversation and motions toward the waitress. “Thanks. We’ll take another round on your way back.”

The waitress nods and scribbles on her pad.

One of the sitting women is in mid conversation. She acknowledges the waitress with a smile and a nod. She continues speaking. “It was two weeks ago. Only a few blocks from here. The guy I work with said she died instantly.”

“I never trusted those little foreign cars.”

“Especially when a large truck barrels into one.”

The waitress walks away after putting her pad back in her pocket.  

Idle chit-chat is heard around the room as the tray’s trip comes to an end at a low table in front of two small couches towards the corner of the room.

The waitress puts the glass in front of Jessica Kasta, an attractive young woman who sits speaking to friend Patty Madiel.

Jessica doesn’t acknowledge the waitress. She picks up her fresh drink and sips through the stirrer. Jessica is not the kind of person to go out of her way to have a conversation with a regular person. She thinks of herself as upper class. She doesn’t recall any memories that are not complimentary to herself.

Patty gives the waitress a friendly nod and smile before she walks off with her tray full of empty glasses.

Jessica’s eyes motion across the room toward a blonde man in a tight dress shirt. “I can’t believe how good Donny looks.”

The man catches Jessica’s eye and then looks away abruptly.

“Maybe I should have taken him up on his repeated offers back in high school.” She slides her tongue across her teeth. “Right now he’s wishing I did.”

“Oh, you think they all wish that.” Patty looks at her martini glass and her finger where a mark is left from where a wedding ring once was. “He did get so much cuter over the years. I wonder if he’s taken.”

“You should find out, now that you’re a single woman again.”

Patty appears bothered by the comment and tries to brush it off. “Please.”

“Speaking of that, why haven’t we seen your Romeo with the wonderful Miranda Oleon?”

 “Hopefully they got lost.” She holds up her empty glass with an olive circling the bottom. “I gotta get another drink. Can I get you something?”

“Sure.” She takes a gulp. “I know I just started this one, but waiting for her   to bring them can take all night.” Jessica points toward the waitress who brought it while holding up her glass to get a view from the bottom. “I’ll take a refill, and while you’re up, see if that guy is still staring over here.”

A stranger in a baseball cap with a dark beard and mustache sits in the opposite corner at a high top table, drinking beer from a mug.

He is the only one in the room not dressed for the occasion. He wears a loose fitting flannel shirt with blue jeans and sneakers.

His head turns slightly when the girls peek over at him. He laughs to himself while putting his mug down after a sip. He wipes his mouth with his sleeve.

“He is.” Patty whispers softly as she stands up and walks toward the bar.

Jessica sits alone while glancing around the room. She holds on to her glass firmly and sips through her stirrer when two old classmates walk up to the table.

The woman, a bit heavy and bubbly holds a plate with a piece of cake on it. The man, a little flabby, balding, with a big smile holds a glass of soda with a thick straw sticking out of it. 

“Hi Jessica. How have you been?” The woman shakes Jessica’s hand. They don’t make eye contact.

“The years seem to have agreed with you.” The man looks at the woman and smiles as if they have an inside joke about Jessica.

“Oh, hello. Thank you. It sure has been a long time.” Jessica pretends to be searching her memory for their names.

“It’s me, Devon. And you remember Andy.” Devon points with her plate toward Andy who stands eagerly wanting to shake Jessica’s hand. He puts his hand out slowly and pulls it back quickly when noticing the time isn’t right.

“Oh of course. You didn’t have to tell me. It was on the tip of my tongue. Hello again Debra.”

Devon is obviously annoyed. “It’s Devon.”

“I’m sorry. I meant Devon.” Jessica tries to hold back a giggle before turning to Andy. “And it is great to see you again sir.”

“Andy.”

“Yes, Andy.” Jessica finally shakes his hand not having a clue as to who either one of them are. Her mouth opens to begin a conversation as Patty returns to the table.

“Here ya go Jes. Tell me if it’s too strong.    I’ll take it back.” Patty steps back when noticing Devon and Andy. “Wow! Hello Devon. You did a great job arranging the reunion.”   She kisses Devon on the cheek.

“Thank you Patty. You look wonderful.” Her smile suddenly fades to a frown. “Sorry about you and Al.”

“Oh please, don’t worry about it.” Patty hides her sadness and becomes up beat. “It was bound to happen sooner or later.” She continues her poor acting and smiles to Andy. “Hey Andy! It’s been so long.” She kisses Andy on the cheek.

Devon cuts the conversation short. “We’ll see you before the night is over.”

“Great seeing you. Both of you.” Andy waves as he and Devon begin to walk away.

Devon whispers to him. “Patty is so nice. Jessica hasn’t changed a bit though.” 

Andy nods agreeing.

Devon holds her plate to offer Andy some. “Banana nut. It’s good. Want a taste?”

Patty watches them walk away.

Jessica lifts her head from searching in her purse, places her lipstick container on the table, picks up her glass, and looks to Patty. “How do you remember all of these people? I couldn’t even remember their names back in school.” Jessica puts the empty glass down, picks up the full one and wipes the bottom of it with a napkin.

“It’s not hard to do.” Patty looks down and mumbles. “You didn’t have a hard time remembering Andy’s name ten years ago.”

Jessica looks back at Patty after being distracted by a group of guys singing along with the chorus of an eighties hit song. “Sorry, did you say something?” She begins applying a fresh coat of lipstick.

“Yes. How is it they know all about Al and me when it’s been less than two weeks?”

“That’s high school gossip for ya.”

“Yea, I thought that ended after high school.” Patty picks up her glass and looks annoyed. “Is the drink too strong?” 

Jessica stops what she’s doing and leans forward to sip the drink through the stirrer. “No. It’s perfect. Thanks.”

“Great.” She looks around the room again. “And you know who, is still lurking through the dark sunglasses.” Patty’s eyes stop to focus on the man at the high top table.

He gently nods his head to the music then picks up his mug once again.

“Who the hell is he? Did he graduate with us? He looks psycho.” Jessica puts her lipstick away and straightens herself up in her seat.

They are both bothered by the man's presence. Patty fiddles with a napkin. Jessica, a drink glass. “Well, we already seen everyone we came to see. Right?”

“Yea, I guess we should be leaving after this drink anyway.” Patty takes a sip of her drink almost finishing it. “Do you want to go someplace else? Or home?” She holds back a yawn.

“I just feel like going home.” Jessica looks down and grabs her purse. “Unless you want to do something?” She stands up.

The man in the dark glasses stands up for the first time all night.

Patty becomes a bit nervous. “Don’t look now, but it seems like our friend wants to leave with us.”

“Should we get one of the guys to walk us to the car?” Jessica fiddles with her car keys at the edge of the table. She tries to be courageous.

“Good thinking.” Patty looks back over at the man. “But, too late. Here he comes.”

The man puts his hand on the table and leans to the side. “Pardon me ladies. Are you leaving?”

“I’m afraid so. We have a lot to do tomorrow.” Jessica attempts to walk away as the man grabs her arm.

Patty looks to the men across the room. They continue singing and dancing. She looks to the bartender. He is busy taking drink orders. She looks around for the waitress, she is no where to be found.

The strangers face gets closer to Jessica’s. Jessica is obviously shaken up. “Get your filthy disgusting paws off of me before I call those guys over here to take you outside.” She points to the group of men across the room drinking and laughing. None of them notice the small scene. Jessica is not one to run from a threatening stranger. She stands her ground believing no one can take what is hers.

“Spoken like a true bar chick.” The man begins to take his hat and glasses off.

Patty stands frozen with fear.

“You’ll never change Jes.” He laughs slightly.

Patty looks somewhat relieved while still nervous.

Jessica has a confused look. “How’d you know my name? And.” She watches as the stranger takes off his mustache and beard.

Both Patty and Jessica have an anxious look.

The stranger holds his disguise to his side and laughs.

“Oh my God!” Jessica recognizes the face.

The stranger’s arms are out to his sides. He smiles very wide. “Remember me?”

“You son of a bitch! You scared the hell out of us!” Patty is laughing. She hits the stranger on his arm. “BRUCE DENZBAR!”

“Denzbar? How have you been?” Jessica laughs with her hand on her chest waiting for her heart to go back to normal beating.

Patty waves to get the attention of the waitress who suddenly appears.

“We thought we saw everyone. I guess we forgot about you.”

“Gee, thanks.” He is sarcastic while leaning over to give them each a hug. Jessica first. He holds one of Patty’s hands and takes a step back. “You’re looking good Patty.” He has a lovable smirk. “Really good.”

“Thanks.” Patty looks down in a shy manner.

“That Al’s a lucky man.”

Jessica appears jealous. “He sure is.”

Patty makes a displeased face at the comment.

The three of them sit back down as the waitress sets them up with another round.

Jessica throws her car keys back down on the table.

 

 

                                          

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER TWO

 

                                     

     Jessica’s keys rattle against her apartment door as she realizes it was already unlocked. She enters a bit wobbly. 

     At the end of a long dark hallway is her made bed covered with pillows.

     “That’s what I need.” She rubs her neck and places her keys and purse on the hallway table next to the front door. “Wait for me right there     bed.”

     “Okay Jessica.” A voice calls from the darkness.

     Jessica stands still in the hallway stunned and frozen. She whispers to herself. “An intruder? A burglar? How does he know my name?”   

The intruder has a comforting tone. “Relax sweetheart. I’m not here to harm you. I just want to talk.” His shadow is visible in the bedroom from the hallway. He picks up an object.

Jessica becomes nervous and curious at the same time. “Who, who are you?”

“Just like the old days. You don’t know who I am.” He laughs as if she should remember. “It feels so familiar. You used to hurt my feelings like that back then too.”

Jessica takes two steps closer to the bedroom door. The shadow flips the object in his hand.

Jessica tries to peek around the corner with her hand on the wall. Her natural belief that no one can take what is hers coupled with the alcohol multiplies her level of courageousness. Her fear is replaced by concern. “I’m really sorry if I did that. Tell me who you are so I can see if I recall you.”

The shadow sits down. “Please, have a seat with me.” The intruder appears sitting on the bed holding open their high school year book. He is the same age as Jessica but looks a lot younger. He is dressed in a grey suit. “Let me bring you back to the ninth grade. Do you have time?”    

Jessica stands before the bedroom door ready to jump back if necessary. “I would really like to get some rest. I was up all night.” She places her hand in front of her mouth.

The intruder smiles. He looks up at her trustfully. “I know.” He puts his attention back to the book and turns a page. “That was some party.” He turns another page. “Nice to see old friends.”

Jessica walks in closer and takes in his good looks. She is surprised. “You were there?”

“Would it matter to you? You wouldn’t remember if you saw me anyway.”

Jessica takes another step inward. The intruder makes some room for her to sit next to him. She sits with interest. Her attraction to looks outweighs her fear.

“That’s not true. I remembered lots of people there.” She becomes defensive while looking at the open year book. “Ninth grade you say? What about it?”

The intruder stands up and walks over to the chair in front of the desk, he sits down and leans back. Jessica is startled by his sudden movement. She clenches her fists and arms then sits still. The year book remains open on the bed.

“That’s the team spirit.” He grins and reminisces. “Let’s see. Someone didn’t do their math homework.” He gives her a shameful look while rubbing one of his pointer fingers across the top of the other. “She was called by the teacher to answer one of the questions.” He raises his eyebrows and sounds like a trial lawyer for a moment. “Looking worried and afraid, that girl would have gotten her last warning in that class and would have had to spend the summer in school. Remembering yet?”

She looks confused. “I didn’t spend any time in summer school.”        

“Exactly.” He points at her gently and smiles. “That’s because your good friend Bobby Olsen handed you his homework assignment with all of the correct answers on it.” He stares deep into her eyes. “You were saved from summer school.”

“I don’t remember a friend by that name.” She curls her lip attempting to recall the friend. “I do recall being helped out from time to time.” She places her hand on her knee and becomes a bit defensive. “Does it make me a bad person for not knowing exactly who did it, and when?”

“I didn’t say it made you a bad person. Does it make you feel like a bad person?”

Jessica hesitates. Her voice is unsure. “No, not really. I guess not.”

The intruder becomes pleasant at first. “How about when the same kid who helped you out of that jam asked if you wanted to sit with him at lunch?” His pleasantness turns to sarcasm. “Do you remember that?”

Jessica cringes. “I really don’t. What did I say to him?” She fears his answer.

“You didn’t say anything.”

Jessica becomes surprised. “No? Why not?”

“You were not able to speak because you were laughing too hard.”

“I can’t believe that.” She is bothered while attempting to look into his eyes. “Wait a second. How do you know all of this about me?” She becomes challenging. “Why would you remember such details of my life?”

The room goes silent. A calm breeze shakes the curtains in the living room across the hall.

He looks right into her eyes and becomes somber. “Not just your life. I remember the details because I am Bobby Olsen.” He speaks softly. “Those are the details from my life also.”

Jessica’s head sinks downward. First looking to the floor, then to the year book. She slowly turns a page.

“You won’t find it in there.”

“Find what?”

The page is turned where the face of Miranda Oleon is seen. Her quote is under her picture.

THE YEARS PASS BY SO FAST. THE FUN DOESN’T SEEM TO   LAST. WHERE WE GO FROM HERE WE MUST DECIDE ON OUR OWN. TRYING NOT TO END UP ALL ALONE.

“My picture.”

“Why not?”

“I didn’t want to be part of the bad memories from that school.” He looks at Miranda’s picture. “Miranda’s a good kid. I didn’t expect to see her so soon.”

Jessica looks unsure. “Yea, she’s great.”

Bobby makes a face as to say he knows she’s lying and she doesn’t even know Miranda. He leans forward and takes her hand showing that he’s not as upset as he could be. “After the embarrassment of that lunch incident, I tried to avoid you for the rest of the school year. I sat behind you in that math class in complete frustration.” Bobby lets go of her hand.

Jessica wipes a tear before it reaches her chin.

“You didn’t even know I was there except for once or twice when Patty would pass me a note to pass to you. Those notes were the highlight of my school days.

Jessica pulls his hand back into hers. She sobs. “I am so sorry.”

Bobby tightens his grip. “I dreamt about you that whole summer. It was me who kept you out of summer school. If not for that move, you may not have met Chad.”

Jessica lets go of his hand. She is surprised. “You remember Chad? He didn’t even go to our school.”

“How could I forget him? He hogged you that entire summer.” Bobby stands up and slowly makes his way to the bed to sit back down next to her. He tilts his head back with a jealous grin. “Now we know you can remember certain people.” He laughs slightly. “I can recall him driving you around in that Chevy Nova. He’s the one that inspired me to start saving for a car.

“Did you ever get one?”

Bobby tilts his head to the side. He is stunned at her not recalling it. “Yea, I did. You didn’t seem to care for it though.”

“Oh c’mon.”

Bobby looks at the clock. 8:47 AM. “You’ll probably need your sleep now. I should get going.” He stands up and approaches the door to the hallway. Jessica stands and walks closely behind him.

Bobby stops in the hallway and notices some pictures on the wall. There is one of Jessica and Patty, next to it a picture of a man and a dog, and next to that, two women wearing name tags MITZY and PEARL.

The picture appears to be taken in a department store behind a perfume counter. There is another woman behind the two women whose face appears extra clear. 

Bobby stops to examine the woman’s face while Jessica continues to speak. She smiles. “Such a quick visit? Will you come back so we can talk some more?” Normally Jessica wouldn’t grace a stranger with so much attention. A vibe from Bobby makes her feel as if he can teach her about her own deep feelings. She is intrigued by his fondness of her and craves more.

Bobby doesn’t expect a return invitation. “If you’d like.” He smiles and points to the picture on the wall. “Who are these ladies?”

Jessica looks at the picture. She points to the women one at a time. “That’s Mitzy, and that’s Pearl.” She laughs. “Can’t you read the name tags?”

“You’re funny. I saw that much.”

“I’m just playing. They work at the counters across from mine at the department store.”

Bobby takes another look at the woman in the background. “Uh-huh, I see.”

“Are you sure you can’t stay a little while?”

He takes his eyes off of the picture and looks at another clock. 8:52 AM. “It’s almost nine o’clock. I’d like to get to church.” He turns to walk away and stops with his back to her. “You can join me, but I know you haven’t slept yet.” He continues walking to the front door as Jessica stands near the bedroom.    

She calls out loudly to him. “You’re right. I have to get some sleep, but if you’re free tonight, stop by!”

“Thanks. I’ll think about it.” He closes the front door behind him.

Jessica picks up the year book. “What a nice guy, and he goes to church too.” She looks back and forth around the room. “I know I have a bible around here somewhere. Too bad I can’t find it. That would have been nice for him to see.” She makes her way to the window and watches as he walks down the quiet street.

Her hand makes a fist and attempts to knock on the glass. Her fist unclenches and she brings her hand back deciding not to knock.

She closes the curtains, walks to the bed, shuts the light, and closes the year book. Her head hits the pillow.

The bedroom shade is closed, a ray of sun light shines in from the living room window. It puts a glare on the wood coffee table. Underneath is a pile of old magazines and newspapers. A couple of books are also in view.

The side of a book entitled THE CEMETERY FENCE is revealed above a thicker book entitled THE HOLY BIBLE.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER THREE

 

                                     

     From the rear of the church the altar is in view as loud organ music plays. THE HOLY BIBLE is seen from the side view in the hand of an old timer one row up. The old timer turns around slightly and smiles.

     The backs of men in suits and women in Sunday dresses are seen as the priest stands up and holds his arms and hands up. He makes his way toward the microphone.

     The organ music stops. The Priest speaks. “In our reading from ISAIAH 37:18 20 when it says, It is true, O Lord, that the Assyrian kings have laid waste all these peoples and their lands. They have thrown their gods into the fire and destroyed them, for they were not gods but only wood and stone, fashioned by human hands. Now O Lord our God, deliver us from his hand, so that kingdoms on earth may know that you alone, O Lord, are God.” He looks around slowly.

     “Is it telling us not to take precious goods and throw them away?” He stops as the people are silent. “Is it telling us that the former gods were hand made and of less value than the Lord?” His hands are raised again welcoming. “In a way it may be giving a message of how these Assyrian kings did not look after their followers as they should have.”

     His hands are slowly placed to his side as he takes in the group that stands before him. “Each reading has many meanings. I bring up the throwing away of precious goods metaphor only to enlighten some of the younger ones here today.” He smiles jokingly. “That’s not saying that some of us older ones can’t use a lesson on taking good care of our precious gifts.”

     Small laughter is heard around the room. The priest’s voice is heard finishing up his thoughts as the stained glass windows are seen. The cross is visible above the altar. “Remember the young ones. Remember to cherish your precious gifts. Teach the youngsters to help the needy.”

     A statue of Mother Mary is off to the side. An altar boy stands in the back behind the altar.

     The priest’s voice is heard again. “Now let’s offer each other a sign of peace.”   

     The old timer turns around. He extends his hand. “Peace be with you.” His Bible is visible.  

    

                                               

 

CHAPTER FOUR      

 

                                     

The Bible under Jessica’s coffee table is seen. The other books and papers come into view. Her bedroom is seen from the living room.

Jessica lifts her head from the pillow and notices the year book next to her. She slowly rises and rubs her eyes. “Wow, what a night. I think I drank a little too much.” She sits at the edge of the bed and yawns.

“Those were some strange dreams about acting so cruel.” She stands up and walks to the window. She looks out at the street. A Nova is parked down the block under a tree.

She turns around and notices the clock. 2:55PM. “Wow. I slept the whole day away.” She takes another look at the year book. “He really was here. He must have followed me home from the party.”

She picks up the year book. “What a precious gift this turned out to be.” She places it gently on the bed, walks to the desk, picks up the phone receiver, and dials. “I hope he comes by again.”

The sound of the phone ringing comes through her receiver. It stops and a female voice is heard on the other end. Jessica acknowledges the voice and speaks friendly. “Hi Patty. How are you feeling? Did you get any sleep?”

     Patty stands on her deck outside her apartment door. She has the phone in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other. She is covered by a white robe with the ties dangling. “Hi Jes. Yea, I fell asleep as soon as I got home and I just woke up a little while ago.” Patty looks over at her bed where a body rolls over under the covers and a low grunt is heard. She becomes distracted. “Um, how about you?”

Jessica looks as if she is going to let Patty in on her little visitor story, she becomes nervous and decides not to. She pauses for a moment before speaking. “Uh, same here. I, uh, I’ve never felt so tired.”

Patty holds the receiver between her shoulder and her cheek. She waves the robe tie with her free hand. “I know. I guess we’re getting too old to do those high school type things we used to.” She becomes concerned. “Is everything okay? You don’t sound right.”

“I’m fine.” Jessica clears her throat wanting to change the subject. “So, what’d you think about that Denzbar stunt? Pretty strange huh?”

“Yea, very strange.” She looks back at the bed.

“I think he was coming on to me.”

Patty puts her hand over the phone to block any outside noise. Her mouth opens wide for a moment before speaking. “Really? Why do you say that?”   

“Just the way he kept looking at me and stuff. I can tell when a guy is interested.”

Patty is taken aback and at the same time she wants to laugh. “Really?”

“Yea, you should know that about me by now.” Jessica pauses briefly. “So what are you doing today?”

Patty becomes anxious while looking at the bed and then at the phone. “Uh, I’m not sure.”

“Now you don’t sound right. Is everything okay?”

“Fine. Yes, everything’s good.”

“If you say so.” There is disbelief in her voice as she quickly changes the subject. “Well I’m just running out to get some groceries for the house. We can talk later.”

“Yes. That would be perfect. Talk to you later Jes.” Patty hangs up quickly and looks over at the bed. A loud yawn comes from under the covers.

Patty hurries over, puts her coffee down on the table and jumps into the bed. “Boy are you loud in the morning. You could have given us up.” She pulls the covers off of the man. It is Denzbar.

Patty is not comfortable letting Jessica know about her new fling so soon after her break up.

Denzbar lifts his head up and pulls Patty closer to kiss her. “Jessica knows you like her.”

He has a sleepy and confused stare. “What?”

“She just told me that she can tell when a guy is interested. And you were interested.”

“Too bad she can’t tell when she hurts a guy’s feelings.”

Patty is slightly defensive while pushing Denzbar’s hair back. “Hey, she’s still my friend.”

“She’s still my friend too.” He fixes the pillow behind his head. “My very shallow friend.”

Patty can’t help but laugh. “Everyone has their downfalls.” She looks away. “Mine was Al.” She reaches over for her coffee.

Denzbar cracks a smile. “He’s still my friend too.”

“You’re funny.” She is sarcastic while taking a sip of coffee. “Jes isn’t that bad.”

“I can’t agree totally. She doesn’t even seem to remember May nineteenth.”

Patty is overcome with a horrified look. “I still can’t hear about that.” She covers her ears. “Change the subject.”

“I know. Sorry. Maybe she remembers, maybe she just blocks it out like us sympathetic people try to do but can’t.”

Denzbar’s mind wanders back to the past. He imagines a dark lake late at night. Complete silence. Moon light shines on the calm water. Police lights flash. Two men dressed in dark clothing walk away from the lake.

     A man and a woman embrace crying. People walk slowly by with their heads hung low. A set of car keys drops to the ground.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER FIVE

 

                                     

     Jessica arrives back at her apartment after shopping. Her car keys dangle from her fingers and fall to the hallway table. Her hands are full of grocery bags. She rushes to the kitchen to put them down.

     Once the bags are placed down safely, she hurry’s to the bathroom. The groceries sit on the kitchen counter. The toilet flushes. Jessica fixes her belt while walking out of the bathroom.

     Bobby stands in the doorway between the    living room and the kitchen with a big grin on his face. He waits until Jessica is only a couple of steps from the doorway before he speaks. “Did you want to hear about the tenth grade?”

     She is startled and takes a step back. “I have to get into the habit of locking that door.” She walks over and begins to empty a grocery bag. She sounds relieved. “Well, I was hoping you would stop by.” She turns towards him and smiles. “How was church?”

     “Very refreshing. The priest had some very interesting points of view.” He steps toward the kitchen counter. “The older man in front of me seemed to enjoy it as much as I did.” Bobby goes through one of the grocery bags. “How was your day? I see you took care of the shopping.” He puts some items in the refrigerator.

     “What a nightmare. I hate that supermarket.”

     “As much as you hate banana nut cake?” Bobby looks up while leaning in the refrigerator.

     Jessica hands him a can of tomato juice to put away. “How did you know that?” She hands Bobby the last two items to go in the refrigerator and places the bag on the floor. She takes two glasses from the dish drain. “Did I mention that back in school also?” She pours two lemonades.

Bobby stands up, closes the refrigerator door and sits at the kitchen table. Jessica hands him a glass of lemonade and sits across from him.

“Thanks.” He takes a sip. “Devon McGee’s sixteenth birthday.  Do you remember her?”

“You have to forgive me. I’m bad with names.”

“That’s where I found out that you hated banana nut cake.” He takes another sip and puts the glass down. “Devon on the other hand loved it.” He sips his drink. “Still does.”

“I think I heard the name before.”

“You gotta remember some names.” He appears to be in deep thought. “What about that blonde haired kid that used to be the quarterback for the football team? He used to lift weights in the gym basement? He.”

Jessica cuts him off and loudly interrupts. “Andy Pennadill!” She is starry eyed. “I could never forget him.”

Bobby is bothered. “I rest my case. Andy was at that party. You didn’t seem to remember him last night.”

She has a confused stare. “Really? I can’t imagine why not.”

Bobby is appalled at her. “Because he wasn’t dressed flashy and he was balding. He had a gut. He lost that athletic physique.” Bobby stands up and looks down at her. “You haven’t changed so much since the tenth grade. You have a long way to go to become that better person.”

He walks to the sink, puts his glass down and leans against the counter. “I remember giving myself another shot with you. I asked you to go bowling and do you know what you told me?”

Jessica is afraid to look at him.

“I should spend more time shopping for decent clothes and less time at the bowling alley.” He is sad while recalling the moment. “Do you remember what you’re friend Don asked me?”

Jessica peeks upward and speaks softly. “What?”

“He said, don’t you need balls to go bowling?” Bobby shakes his head. The memory visibly hurts him. “All of your friends laughed as I stood there wanting to cry. It felt like I was standing there for hours. All of you walked away as if I was not human and unable to feel pain.”

Jessica places her hand over her forehead to hide her eyes.

“That feeling hung over me for most of that school year. Being put aside like that in front of the girl I wanted more than anything was the worst part. And I still wasn’t smart enough to give up.”

Jessica looks down on the verge of tears. Bobby walks away from the sink with his hand in his pant pocket.

 

 

                                          

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER SIX

                                     

    

     Denzbar walks to his car parked four spots from a     convenience store door. He wears a light leather jacket and black jeans. He puts his hand in his front pant pocket while noticing a grubby man approaching. “Oh please tell me I have a quarter for this bum.”

     The man is close enough to touch him. He has a brown bag in his hand and a lit cigarette hanging from his lip. “What’s the matter Bruce? Don’t want anyone to think you know me?” His cigarette falls out of his mouth from talking. He lets out a cough. He is bothered. “Dam!”

     Denzbar puts the quarter back in his pocket. “I don’t think I do know you. Can you give me a hint?”

     “I may be down on my luck but I ain’t stupid Bruce.” He coughs. “I know a bunch of you’s are still lingering around from that senseless reunion the other night. And some of you’s reunited a little more than others.”

     Denzbar looks impatient. He puts his bag in the opposite hand. “Sir. May I ask what you are getting at? Please?”

     The bum lights another cigarette. “My wife! The two of you hitting it off pretty well, huh?”

     Denzbar has a look of fear and surprise. “Al? Is that you?”

     “The one and only!” Al extends his arms out to the sides as to offer a look at what the years have done to him. Denzbar takes a step back with his mouth hung open.

Al puts his arms down and extends his hand to shake Denzbar’s. “It’s okay Bruce. You don’t know the whole story.”

     Denzbar is shaken up. “Have a seat in the car.

Do you need a ride or something?” Denzbar opens the driver side door and holds his hand out to let Al know that the passenger door is unlocked. They both sit down inside.

     “I’m sorry things didn’t work out with you and Patty.” Denzbar fixes his seat belt and rattles his keys. “She said Miranda had something to do with it.” He starts up the car and checks the mirrors. Soft music plays. He begins to pull out of the parking spot.

     “She had everything to do with it. It started with coffee and then things just got crazy.”

     Denzbar pulls on to the main road. “Crazy where you start talking to yourself and people outside notice it?” He takes his eyes off the road for a moment. “That’s what she told me.”

     Al looks disturbed. He puts his hand on the radio knob to lower it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER SEVEN

 

                                     

     At Jessica’s apartment Bobby holds Jessica’s hand while they sit at the table across from each other. Her head slowly rises. They laugh.

“Don’t feel so bad. Tenth grade wasn’t all misery. There were a couple of happy times.”

“I’m just so sorry for the times that weren’t so happy.”

“You’ll make up for that.” He lets go of her hand and smiles. “If not for the reunion and me coming here to reminisce with you, I never would have thought of the good things that I sorta didn’t pay much attention to back then.”

Jessica has a comfortable look. “Really?”

Bobby nods.

“Like what?”

“Like Bruce and the burger Kraffs. We’d sit there for hours some nights just watching the stars, chewing, talking about the future or anything and everything that came up.”

Jessica nods and moves her mouth to show she wants to hear more.

“Just some silly things that make you realize that you once had a friend.” He puts his head half way down and mumbles. “Things that make you think twice about your decisions.”

Jessica stands up. “Let me get you some more lemonade.”

Bobby also stands up. “No, no, that’s okay. I have to get going so you can get some sleep before work in the morning.” Bobby makes his way toward the door. He stops in the hallway and looks at the woman in the background of the picture again.

Jessica puts the glasses in the sink and follows him. Once he sees her coming, he quickly looks away from the picture.

“When should I expect you back?”

Bobby holds the door open for one sentence. He speaks low. “Tomorrow night, if you leave this unlocked.” he lets the door shut behind him.

Jessica stands and stares at the door for a moment. She walks over to the bedroom window. She clears some frost with her hand to watch Bobby walk down the street.

 

 

 

CHAPTER EIGHT

 

                                     

Denzbar and Al sit in Denzbar’s car. Al wipes the frost off of the windshield to watch two young women cross the street. The guys sit under a sign at an all night burger shop. KRAFF’S BURGERS.

Denzbar pulls a hamburger out of a bag and offers one to Al. “Ready for another?”

Al grabs the burger and grunts.

“Look, if it’s that weird you don’t have to tell me what freaked you out so bad about Miranda.” Denzbar holds a hamburger wrapper out of the window while hearing Al chew.

“Thanks. I’d really rather not go into the details right now.”

“And I won’t see Patty tonight if you’d rather I didn’t.”

Al chews as pieces of food fall on his lap. “No, no, don’t be silly. Talk to her. Maybe you can fix it.”

“I don’t know about fixing it. I can try, but I can’t promise anything.” Denzbar drops the wrapper out of the window accidentally. “Dammit!” He quickly opens the door and steps out before the wrapper can blow away.

Al watches him while mumbling to himself. “Yea, sleep with my wife you rat. So how was she? You’re a real great friend.”

Denzbar sits back down and closes the door. “I hate to litter.” He tosses the Kraff’s wrapper into the back seat. “Were you saying something?”

“I’m glad we’re friends.”

There is an awkward pause.

“Me too. It’s probably better if I do the Patty talk tomorrow though.”

Al continues to chew as he wipes the frost off of the windshield again.

 

 

                                          

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER NINE

 

                                     

     At the department store, Jessica cleans off the glass top of her jewelry counter with paper towels while speaking with Mitzy and Pearl. Both in their late fifties. All wearing name tags. They are in mid conversation.

     “He sounds like a keeper. Besides, it seems like you owe him something.” Mitzy is amazed by the story of Jessica being visited by Bobby.

     “And when he saw the picture of you two in my apartment, he was pretty fixated on it.”

     “Then he’s definitely a keeper.” Mitzy giggles with three fingers over her lips.

“Yea, you have to come back and tell us his rendition of the eleventh grade.” Pearl sprays her perfume counter and wipes it.

Jessica steps out from behind her counter and closer to Pearl’s.

“What are you expecting?”

Jessica answers Pearl softly. “I’m afraid to find out what    harm I caused there.”

Pearl and Mitzy both look to Jessica.

“Going over all of the events has sparked my memory a bit.”

The ladies look intrigued as Jessica smiles.

“If Bobby is the same guy I am thinking of, I think he might be the guy that did something really big right before graduation. I just can’t remember what that was.” Jessica leans on Pearl’s counter with her fist under her chin.

 Mitzy raises her eyebrows. “Maybe he got a great job and made lots of money.” She closes her eyes and makes fists. She smiles. “Or went to college and became a super athlete?”

Jessica sounds doubtful. “No, I don’t think so. I probably would have remembered that.”

“Maybe he did something for you.” Pearl places a perfume bottle in her case. “Do you recall flowers? Gifts? A letter?”

“I did receive some of those things from time to time. Maybe he was one of the one’s who sent them to me.” She scratches her head and squints. “I thought it was something bigger than that though.” The phone behind Jessica’s counter rings. Jessica turns her head. “That’s mine girls. I’ll be back.” She runs to her counter.

“I envy her situation. She is falling for this Bobby.” Mitzy speaks softly to Pearl.

“She reminds me of when we were her age.”

The two of them lean on separate counters with there hands under their cheeks holding their heads up gazing toward Jessica.

Jessica picks up the phone behind the counter. “Hello?”

Patty is on the other end. She sits behind a desk in an office cubicle. She speaks with almost a whisper so not to let others on the floor hear. “Hi Jes. It’s me. I’m at work. Can you talk a sec?”

“Sure.”

“You got me worried the way our conversation ended yesterday.”

“I’m sorry. Just something odd happened.” She looks down not wanting to give too much information about her surprise visitor. “I’ve been talking to someone lately and I wasn’t sure if I was ready to tell you about it yet.”

Patty gets worried. “Is everything okay?”

“Yea. Yea, fine, don’t worry, it’s silly. Maybe we can get together this week? I’d like to run something by you.”

Patty becomes curious. “Of course we can get together. Besides, Denzbar called me. He wants the three of us to meet up for drinks this week. How does that sound?”

“That would be perfect. I could get his input also. See if he can make it tomorrow night.”

“It’s a date. And maybe I can run something by you also.”

“Is everything okay?”

“Sure, I think so. We’ll talk tomorrow.”

“Sounds good.” Jessica hangs up the phone. She looks over at Pearl and Mitzy smiling at her. She whispers to herself. “They can tell I’m falling for him.”

 

 

                                          

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER TEN

 

                                    

     A pained man close to Mitzy and Pearl in age sits on a stool in the corner of a dirty basement room with his head in his hands. The only light comes through a small window. A half filled glass sits along side a half filled bottle of rum. The man sobs as he reaches for the glass as he sniffs. “Why? It’s not fair.”    

He takes a gulp of the rum. His arm trembles as he places the glass back down on the table. He is angry. “It could be yesterday. It could be twenty years ago.” He reaches for the glass again. His hand knocks the glass on to the floor. “Dammit!” He looks at the bottle and laughs. “Ah, what the hell.”

He picks up the bottle and gulps from it as he stumbles out of his chair. He walks over to the small window and looks outside. He sees a bench in front of a tree where a bird sits perched whistling above.

A tear rolls down the mans cheek.

 

                                          

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER ELEVEN

 

                                     

     Patty sits on a chair with a cup of coffee in front of her at her apartment. She is wearing the same clothes as she wore at work. She looks upset. “So I come home for my lunch hour to hear you defend him?”

     Denzbar stands in the doorway facing the deck. He wears a tee shirt and jeans. His leather jacket is on the bed. He turns around. “The man has a decent gripe.” He takes a step closer. “He’s going through some strange stuff here. I think you should listen to him.”

     Patty pulls at her chin. “Then what happens to us? Where do we put that night?”

     Denzbar steps closer and hugs her. “You can put it where you want to. I’m keeping it in my heart, where only I can feel it again when I need to.”

     Patty steps back and releases herself from the hug. She looks at his face. “That is some pretty corny stuff. What’d ya think? It was gonna give us another night?”

     Denzbar also steps back. He shakes his head and then laughs. “Worth a shot right?”

     He hears Al’s voice in his head. “I’m glad we’re friends.”

     Denzbar’s laugh stops and he becomes serious. “Nah. Al really made me feel something.”

     Patty laughs. “You’re just as far out there as him then.”

     “There is more to this Miranda thing than there appears to be. Al is a mess.”

     “Oh, he’s a mess? That’s a good reason to give him another shot.”

     “Not that kind of a mess.”

     “Was he drinking and smoking and dirty looking?”    

     “Well, maybe that kind of a mess. Just a little

though.” He smirks and tilts his head. “Something is going on there.”

     “I’d appreciate if you didn’t mention her name anymore when you’re talking to me.”

     “Done.”

     “I must be out of my mind.”

     “We all are.”

     “You sleep with me and then want to help my husband get me back.”

     “It sounds weird when you say it like that.”

     “I am out of my mind.”

     The trees outside Patty’s porch window sit still. A bird can be seen fixing his nest.

                  

    

                                          

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER TWELVE

 

                                     

     A bird chirps from a tree above as Jessica walks through the park on her way home from work. She takes in the fresh air and the sounds of singing birds as the sun is setting.

Up ahead, the old timer from church chases some items that fall from his grocery bag. Jessica hurries to help him. She leans down to pick up a can of tomato juice. She hands it to him while looking up.

“Thank you young lady. That was very nice of you.” He balances his bag while putting the can back in. “Some youngsters would walk the other way.” His big smile lights up his face. “Not you though. You help the needy. And that is a precious gift.”

“I’m glad I could help.” Jessica secures the bag and makes sure the old timer handles it so it won’t drop again. She pats his back. They both chuckle.

Jessica continues in the direction she was headed. They both wave goodbye.

“Peace be with you.”

Jessica mumbles to herself. “Not me though. I help the needy.” She stops walking. “I help the needy? Since when?” She takes a step forward and smiles as if she made a revelation. “Maybe I’m becoming that better person.” She starts walking again.

 

                              

 

                                          

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

 

                                     

     Denzbar and Patty end a long tight hug in front of Patty’s apartment. He looks at the four steps to the sidewalk and then walks down them.

     Patty smiles when he looks back up at her. “I hope you’re right.”

     “Trust me on this. I’m sure he’ll make good.”

     “We’re on for drinks tomorrow night right?”

     Denzbar is walking backwards towards his car. “You know it.” He takes two more steps. There’s no one I’d rather spend my last night in town with.”

     He gets in his car, starts it up and a puff of smoke blows from the tail pipe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

 

 

     Jessica comes out of her bathroom followed by shower steam. She wears one towel around her body and dries her hair with another. She wears fluffy slippers while walking and singing on her way towards the bedroom.

     She passes the living room and looks in. Bobby sits comfortably on her sofa with the television on. “Good evening beautiful.”

     “Oh, you scared me.” She makes sure her towel covers everything while smiling brightly. “This time I left the door open on purpose. I was thinking about you on my walk home. How are you?”

Bobby rests his glass of lemonade on the table next to him. “That’s sweet. This is exactly what I used to dream about back in the old days. You coming out of the shower, me being on your mind all day, and us spending the evening together,    just talking.”

Jessica is wide eyed. “That is so sweet.” She pulls the towel tighter and sits on the arm of the couch. “I wish we began this relationship ten years earlier.”

“Are you tired of traveling down memory lane yet?” Bobby sits up.

“No. Not at all. I was hoping you could get some more off your chest.” She becomes filled with hope. “Maybe your opening up may cure the old wounds and clear a path to build something meaningful between us.”

Bobby picks up the yearbook and plays with her. “Well, open your textbook to the eleventh grade.” He puts his hands together and tilts his head back with the year book on his lap. “I remember a girl who really grew up that summer. What a knock out. The pretty face, long, luxurious hair, and a body that all of a sudden brought it all together. You were dazzling. Those young beauty queen features.”

He smiles at her as she wipes a tear from her cheek. “And once again, I played the fool. I sat in the back of study hall when you walked in. That year we had a sort of mutual friend, Bruce. He let me join in your conversation for a word or two. The relationship with Chad was over and you were discussing what guys would be suitable for you and which girls would be suitable for Bruce. A couple of others joined in and it felt so good just to be a part of the same conversation as you. You probably don’t recall that one either.”

Jessica returns Bobby’s helpless frown with an apologetic response. “To tell you the truth, I only remember certain moments of that school year. Mostly parties, sitting through the football games and doing my hair with some of the girls. Those little classroom talks don’t really stick out.”

“Those little classroom talks were all that I had. Do you know what you said when it came time to pair me up with someone in the school?” He gets choked up. “I’ll tell you who you paired me up with. You said that me and the seventy year old, angry lunch lady would make a   nice couple if I was only three inches taller.”

The room becomes silent for a moment. Bobby hangs his head.

Jessica looks down at him. “I can only say sorry so many times. You don’t know how awful I feel. I really want to make it all up to you right now and forever. I was immature. A child. I didn’t take the feelings of others into consideration. I was caught up in looks, money and popularity. I was hurtful and there is no excuse.” Her head falls into her hands as she cries.

Bobby looks back up. “It took a long time to get over the sadness.”

“I guess it wasn’t easy.”

“The most difficult thing I ever did.”

“Why couldn’t you have made me listen back then?”

“That would have been impossible.”

“I guess you’re right.”

“It’s okay. I’m over it now. No need to get upset.” He holds the yearbook up.

Jessica tries to smile. “I know you may not believe me, but I do think you’re coming back to my memory.”

“Really?”

“All I can place is you doing something big.” She has a burst of excitement. “I think it was senior year. I don’t know what it was though.     Can you help me with it?”

Bobby stands up. He takes a step toward the door. “No skipping ahead. Twelfth grade is tomorrow nights discussion.”

Jessica stands also. “I’m looking forward to that. I know it will make it all better.” She has a half smile in hopes that she sounded convincing. “By the way, I am meeting with a couple of friends for drinks tomorrow night. Remember Denzbar?”

“I remember him well. He was our mutual friend, Bruce.”

Jessica has a surprised look. “Yea, that’s right.” She changes the subject. “And my friend Patty that you saw me with at the party. You know her.”

“Sure do.”

“If you want to join us, you’re welcome to come. If you’re busy, we’ll understand.”

“That is quite all right. I don’t think I can make it but I’d like you to give something to Patty for me if you don’t mind.” He reaches into his pocket.

“Of course. That wouldn’t be a problem.”

Bobby hands her a sealed envelope. “Besides, I’d like to see my dad while I’m back in town.”

Jessica puts the envelope in her purse and smiles. She appears curious but doesn’t ask what’s in the envelope. “That is so nice. Where does he live?”

“In the same house still. Not too far from here.” He becomes visibly distraught. “He’s not the same since mom left him. I want to lift his spirits if I can.”

“Aw, your mom left him? That’s sad.”

“She didn’t want to. She had to.”

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay.”

“Maybe you can meet with Denzbar, Patty and me another time.”

“That would be real nice. Maybe one day.” He starts to walk toward the front door.

Jessica stands and speaks loudly from the other end of the hallway. “I shouldn’t be home too late! I hope you wait for me.” She waits for a reaction. There is none.

Bobby stops to look at the picture once again.

“If you like it that much, you should take it with you.” 

Bobby looks back at her. “What’s that?”

“The photo of my co-workers.”    

Bobby continues to look at the photo. “Don’t be silly.” He looks at Jessica, and then at the photo. “Do you know when it was taken though?”

Jessica begins to walk towards him. “Turn it around. I usually write the date on the backs of my photos. She takes the picture off the wall, opens the frame and looks at the writing. “January sixth, only five weeks ago.”

Bobby looks shocked. “Wow.” He takes the picture and looks closely at the woman in the background once again.

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing.” He hands the picture back. “That was a week before mom left dad. That’s all.”

Jessica becomes uncomfortable while putting the photo back into the frame. “Oh, um, sorry, let me just.”

He cuts her off. “Don’t worry about it. It’s not a big deal. Enjoy the get together tomorrow night.”

Jessica looks at him and smiles. “I’m looking forward to seeing them, but I’m looking forward to seeing you afterwards even more.”

He smiles back and walks out the front door. He stands outside the door staring at it as if he is having second thoughts about something he did.

Inside the apartment, Jessica grabs Bobby’s lemonade glass off of the table.

 

 

                       

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

 

 

     In the dark basement the pained man reaches and grabs his glass of rum off of the table next to him. A picture of a woman sits next to the bottle. Her face is blurred.

     He glides his fingers across the picture. “It’s not fair. Wasn’t one enough? What did I do?” Tears move down his face. He slams his glass on to the table.

     Out his small window is a glowing street light.

 

 

 

 

 

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