Camden Hill Ski Lodge

Chapter Forty Four

Camden Hill Ski Lodge

Donna Grant pressed the intercom. “Tracy, your big city daughter is on line three.”

“Thanks, Donna,” Tracy said with just a hint of apprehension. Jenna Crowley and her best friend, Katie Burke were the adventurous ones in the family. After graduation from the university in Camden Corners, they packed Jenna's car and took off for New York City. They lived in a two bedroom flat in an area that made both Tracy and Katie nervous just thinking about it. They worked together in one of the most expensive hotels in Manhattan. One suite for the night cost almost as much as renting the entire second floor of The Merryweather.

“Jenna, is everything alright with you and Katie?” she asked.

“Of course, it is Mom. We have some news.” Jenna said. “Is Holly around? She will want to hear this too.”

“She just walked in the door. May I put you on speaker?”

“Please do. Hi, Holly,” said Jenna.

“Hi, Mom, hi, Tracy,” added Katie.

“Hello, girls, what's your news? Don't keep us in suspense any longer.”

“Okay, we are coming back to Camden Corners at the end of the week.”

“How nice, it will be so good to see you. How long will you be able to stay?”

“You don't get it, we are coming back to stay. Wait until you hear our plan.”

Tracy and Holly gave each other thumbs up. They had hoped the girls would return home one day. Now it looked like their wishes were coming true. “What is your plan, dear?”

“We are buying the Camden Hill Ski Lodge. Wait until you see the plans we have for renovating it. You know, nothing has been done with it in the last fifty years. It needs a complete overhaul.”

“Oh my,” said Tracy. “That is quite an undertaking. Won't it be expensive?”

“Mom, we thought, of all people, you and Holly would understand why we want to do this. Don't you remember two young girls who decided to renovate an old broken down mansion? Everyone in town tried to discourage them from making their dream a reality, but they couldn't be stopped.”

“You are right, Jenna, I didn't mean to sound negative. You have taken us by surprise. I wouldn't even complain if you wanted to turn old Jed Finnegan's place into a gambling hall, just as long as it brings you two back to Camden corners.”

“We will see you on Friday,” said Jenna.

“Oh, by the way,” added Katie. “Would you be able to put up a couple of fellows in one of the cabins at the family rate? You remember Danny Stevens, don't you, Mom? You met him when you and Dad visited in the spring? Max Hollister is a friend of ours too. They are going to be helping with the project.”

“I'm sure we can accommodate them,” said Holly as she looked at Tracy and rolled her eyes. “Can't wait to see you on Friday.”

After the call was ended, Tracy and Holly both shook their heads. “Did our parents think we were in over our heads too?” said Tracy.

“We were in over our heads. Renovating the ski lodge does sound like a good idea. I wonder about Danny and his friend. Danny seems like a nice enough fellow. Katie says they are just friends, she never says too much about her social life. I'm surprised both girls are giving up the thrill of living in New York. I didn't think they would ever come back to their sleepy home town.”

“I guess we shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth, our girls will be back home. Do you think we should call Alex Kelly? I wouldn't mind getting his opinion on this project,” said Tracy.

“That's a good idea, but, maybe we should just make the suggestion that they call him. If they are anything like us, they will want to do this entirely on their own without our interference.”

Donna Grant stood at the doorway. “The fellows are all set up in Cabin Fourteen. I've booked them for the whole month. We can always change their departure date. Would you ladies like more coffee? I'm going to have the coffee shop fill up the pot.”

“We'd love some, Donna,” said Holly as they watched her walk down the hallway.

“That woman is the best eavesdropper in town,” laughed Tracy. “I'm afraid this place could run without us as long as Donna is around. Have you noticed she has a lighter step lately? She seems especially cheerful too. You don't suppose there is a man in her life after all these years?”

“That's funny, now that you mention it, Eddie Hammond, the new handyman, has been hanging around her office quite a bit lately. Wouldn't it be nice if Donna had a beau?”

Just at that moment, Eddie appeared in Donna's office. “Hi Eddie, if you are looking for Donna, she should be back shortly. She's gone to the coffee shop,” said Holly.

“I was just checking to make sure her desk drawer was working alright. It was sticking yesterday, I'll get back to work, ma'am.”

“Wait Eddie, come in and sit down for a minute,” called Tracy.

“I might get dirt on your chairs, ma'am. I have been cleaning out the vent behind the front desk.”

“You're fine, Eddie. Please call us Tracy and Holly. How do you like the job so far? Do you have the proper tools? Have you had any problems? We haven't had a chance to talk since you started a couple of weeks ago.”

“The job is working out very well, ma'am..er Tracy. I'm glad to have something to do at my age.”

“Have you always been in this line of work?”

“Oh no, I was in the banking business in Greensboro for many years. I retired five years ago. My wife, Emmaline passed on a year ago this July. After I retired, we traveled all over the United States. Emmaline's favorite was Hollywood, California. It had been her dream to see where movies were made. Shortly after we came back home, Emmaline began feeling poorly. After I lost her, retirement wasn't fun anymore. Everyplace I went in Greensboro reminded me of Emmaline. I sold our house and all of our furnishings and took the few belongings I had left and moved to Camden Corners. I found I was still restless and I didn't know anyone in town. When I saw your ad in the paper for a handyman, I took a chance and answered it. I was surprised to be hired without any real experience, but I'm grateful. I love this old mansion and I'm sure Emmaline would love it too.

“I'm sorry, ladies. I am just rambling on. I'll get back to work.”

“No, Eddie, we like to get to know the people who work here. You are part of our family now, isn't that right, Donna?” Tracy said as Donna walked through the door.

“I'd like to think so. I feel like family here. These people are almost as close to me as Mr. Penelope,” Donna said with a slight blush.

“Mr. Penelope?” Eddie asked with a surprised look on his face.

“Mr. Penelope is my cat, Eddie. I have his picture on my desk. Other than the folks who work at the resort, he is my only family.”

“Emmaline loved cats too. Audrey refused to leave her side when she was dying. She was named after Audrey Hepburn. Emmaline always named her cats after movie stars. That old cat is still with me, she sits on my lap and we watch the nightly news together.” Eddie laughed. “She's a well informed feline.”

Eddie talked until his pager buzzed. “A two year old has locked himself in the bathroom, I'd better be on my way. It was very nice talking with all of you. Thank you for making me feel so welcome here.” The smile he gave to Donna as he left didn't go unnoticed by Tracy and Holly.

“I'd better get back to work myself,” said Donna.

“Not before we find out what is going on between you and Eddie,” said Holly. “We have never known you to show any interest in a man before. Come clean, friend. We want to hear the whole story.”

“I don't think anything is going on. You heard him talk about his dead wife. She is very much in his thoughts. He speaks of her often. I don't think I stand a chance with the ghost of Emmaline always between us.”

“He seemed awfully interested in you,” said Tracy. “It sounds as though he and Emmaline were married for many years. Maybe he is feeling guilty because he is attracted to you.”

“How could a man like Edward Hammond be interested in an old spinster like me?”

“Maybe he is interested because you are an interesting person. You may not be a youngster, but you certainly are not ready for the old folks home yet,” said Holly.

“Do you really think he could be interested? I'm not very experienced with men. I was in love a very long time ago. His name was Clement Bridges. He was the most handsome man I had ever met. I thought he cared for me as much as I cared for him, but I was wrong. He declared his love for me one day and ran off with my best friend the next. My heart was broken and I vowed I would never love another.”

Donna looked so sad, Tracy put her arm around her shoulder. “Donna, we all have had a broken heart at one time or another. I think I was dumped at least three times in high school alone. You can't give up on love for all your life because of one bad apple. I can see the twinkle in Eddie's eye when he looks at you. Don't you think it's time to take a chance again?”

“Maybe you are right. Eddie may have been Emmaline's for a very long time, but he is alive and so am I. I think it's high time I showed him just how alive I am. I believe I will offer to make dinner for him this evening. I'll ask him to bring Audrey Hepburn along, I think Mr. Penelope will enjoy meeting a movie star,” she laughed.

Friday couldn't come quickly enough for Tracy and Holly and their families. They all met at The Merryweather to greet the girls as they pulled into the parking lot, followed by Danny and Max in Danny's car. There was so much hugging and crying when they arrived, even the paying guests smiled as the reunion was taking place.

“Daddy, do you think we are crazy?” asked Jenna when she had a moment with Jack.

“I was surprised when your mom told me what you and Katie planned, but it isn't as crazy an idea as turning an old mansion into a hotel. Look how that worked out? Camden Corners could use an updated ski resort. I think it's a great idea.

“Do either Danny or Max have any experience remodeling?”

“They both worked for builders while they were going to school. Danny's old boss told him to look up Alex Kelly, seems he is a friend of his and said Alex would be a big help to us. I called him before we signed anything and he came up to look the place over. We swore him to secrecy, I didn't want to get Mom's hopes up that we would come back to town if we decided against it.”

“Good, I'm glad you checked with Alex. You really are your mother's daughter. From what Steve tells me, there was no stopping your mom and Holly when they started their own project. Now, tell your old man all about Danny. He seems like a nice fellow. Should I be pulling my tux out of mothballs? It's been awhile since I was father of the bride.”

“No, Dad, Danny and I are just friends. The guys wanted a change of scenery and the more we talked about the ski resort, the more interested in the project they became. Danny will be on his way when we are up and running. I'm not too sure about Max, I think there may be more than friendship between Katie and him. They just don't know it yet.”

After lunch in The Merryweather coffee shop, they piled into Jenna's car and drove to the ski lodge.

“This is better than I expected,” said Danny. “I had no idea there was this much land up here, there's enough for an entire village.”

“We only own the lodge and ski runs. Wouldn't it be something if all this land were developed? Alex and his wife, Belinda are on their way. She can help us with the interior design although Katie and I have some ideas of our own.”

“Jenna, I like what I see of Camden Corners. I can understand what drew you back to this area.”

“I hope you don't die of boredom after living in New York City.”

“I don't think I will, I grew up in a small town. I couldn't wait to move away, but looking back it was a nice place to live. Camden Corners reminds me of my hometown.”

“There are Alex and Belinda now. Where are Max and Katie?”

“They are exploring the grounds and probably each other. I think Max is falling for her.”

“I wondered if there was something between them. She talks about him all the time.” Jenna felt a twinge of jealousy and couldn't understand why. She wasn't interested in a relationship. It didn't fit in with her plans. Still, it would be nice to have someone to care about.

Alex showed them the plans he had drawn. The lodge would be expanded and two additional floors added with large guest rooms. Rows of cabins on either side of the lodge with an expanded ski lift. Covered walkways from the cabin area to the lodge. In the warmer months benches and flower pots would be placed along the walkways. An additional restaurant on the second floor with outside eating on the patio. Fireplaces inside and out. Hot tubs outside and a heated pool on the lower level.

“Alex, this is wonderful. Are you sure we can afford to do this?” asked Katie.

“I've estimated the cost for materials and labor.” He gave them a list. “I purposely overestimated just in case we run into some problems. I don't anticipate any, but it's better to be prepared. The labor will be less depending on how much the four of you want to do yourselves. I would be happy to lend a hand if you need me. I have a crew that does excellent work at a reasonable cost.

“You did get a bargain on this property. Eventually, you may want to consider even more additions. If this resort takes off like I think it will, you may be able to interest others in buying the land and building on it.

“Belinda and I will take a walk around the property while you discuss the plans. I'll be able to answer any questions you may have. If you want changes or decide to go another route, that will be fine.”

“I don't think we need to discuss it, I think we are all in agreement,” said Jenna.

“You and Katie are the ones who need to decide. Danny and I don't have anything invested,” said Max.

“You will be investing your time and hard work. We do want your opinion, right Katie?”

“Yes, what do you say?”

“I say let's get started,” said Danny.

The town council called an emergency meeting and approved the plans for the resort. It helped that Katie's father, Steve Burke, was chairman of the committee. Everyone was in agreement improvements would be welcome and draw visitors to Camden Corners to spend money.

Ground was broken on the first day of April. “I hope the date isn't a bad omen,” said Jenna as the four entrepreneurs each scooped up a shovel of dirt and posed for the picture that would appear in the following morning's Camden Corners Chronicle.

A Goodhearted Fellow

Chapter 43

Goodhearted Fellow

Brad was not surprised to hear his old friend Woody Malone tell him he was dying. Woody didn't speak of it often, but Brad knew his heart had been damaged when he was a youngster after contracting rheumatic fever.

“How much time do they give you, Woody?” Brad asked solemnly.

“I don't know how much time I have left. I can feel myself getting weaker all the time.”

“What do the doctors say? Have you gotten a second opinion?”

“What are you talking about? I didn't think it was necessary to go to a doctor. I'm surprised I lasted this long.”

“What in the world are you saying? You haven't been to a doctor, you are just predicting your own death. Are you crazy man?”

“Look, Brad. I accepted my fate years ago when Dr. Pike told my mother I would be lucky if I made it to my teens. He said my heart was damaged beyond repair. I never bothered to see a doctor after that. If there was nothing to be done for me, why bother?”

“Woody, you have to know what progress has been made in recent years. Surely you've heard of heart procedures and transplants. Do you have a death wish?”

“No, of course not. I guess I just figured I was a goner. Do you suppose there is a chance they could do something about my heart?”

“I think it's worth checking into.”

He went to the door and called Samantha. The children were back to watching their movie and eating popcorn.

Samantha wasn't totally surprise that Woody had not seen a doctor in years or that he believed what he'd heard when he was young. She had heard of similar cases where a child heard a dire prognosis and accepted their fate without question.

“I'm going to call Dad right away. He will be able to evaluate your problem and refer you to the best doctor,” said Samantha.

“I don't want you to disturb your father, Samantha. I'm sure he's a busy man.”

Samantha smiled at him and picked up the phone. “Hi Dad, any chance you could see a friend of Brad's first thing in the morning?” Samantha filled Joe in on Woody's history.

“Sounds like he could use a medical opinion. Have him come by the office around 9:30, I should be finished with rounds by then.”

“You are all set for tomorrow morning. My dad will check you out and set you up with the heart clinic. They perform miracles every day and I have a feeling they will help you, Woody.”

“How can I thank you Samantha? First I dump my kid on you and now you are giving me hope that I will be around to watch her grow up. Brad, I'd say you have a pretty special wife here.”

“You don't have to tell me, old pal. Other than your health, how has your life been these last few years? It seems time has a way of slipping away.”

“It's been great. Mallory disappeared after the baby was born,” Woody said as he glanced toward Samantha. “That's Maggie's mother. We lived together when she was carrying Maggie, but that was only so I could keep an eye on her and make sure she wasn't harming the baby in any way. I paid her to stay well and she earned an extra bonus for a healthy baby. I know some day I will have to be honest with Maggie about the kind of woman her mother was. I thought maybe I would be able to avoid telling her the truth by dying, but you two changed that,” he laughed.

“She certainly loves her daddy. I'm sure you have been a good father to her, Woody,” said Samantha.

“Where are you staying while you are in town? We have plenty of room here. Last night I thought it was better for Maggie to sleep in the guest room, but she and Daisy are getting along so well, I'm sure the girls will be fine sleeping in the same room. You may use the guest bedroom.”

“I've imposed on you enough. I noticed a motel just outside of town. Maggie and I will stay there tonight and I'll keep my appointment with your father tomorrow.”

“I won't hear of it. You are staying here with us. How about some dinner? We have leftovers or I can fix you a sandwich if you would prefer.”

“I have to admit, I'm a little hungry. I haven't been able to eat since I dropped Maggie off here yesterday.”

“Let me help you, Samantha,” said Brad. “I wouldn't mind a little snack myself.”

The movie was almost over when Maggie turned to look toward the den. She could see that the light was no longer shining through the crack under the door. “Daddy!” she shouted. “Daddy, where are you?”

Woody came running out of the kitchen. “I'm here baby,” he put his arms around her.

“I thought you went away again,” she walked back to the living room and watched the end of the movie with the others.

“What have I done to my daughter? She is scared to death I will leave her. I hope the doctors can fix me up.”

Samantha and Brad both went to Joe's office with Woody. They were afraid he may change his mind if they let him go alone. Samantha guessed correctly that he had developed a fear of doctors since his last encounter with a doctor was when he heard one tell his mother he was going to die soon.

Brad recalled that Woody was always one to take chances. “He seemed to be tempting fate. For a time when we were roommates, he brought home a different girl almost every night. I believe that all changed when Mallory announced she was expecting his child. He mentioned last night that he hadn't been with a woman since Maggie was born. It sounds like he has devoted his life to her. That's why it still doesn't make sense that he wouldn't see a doctor. I don't have a heart condition but I do know the strides that have been made in that area.”

“His mind may have shut off any information that could help him because he was convinced it wouldn't change the outcome. That doctor did a number on him but the poor man probably believed what he told Woody's mother,” said Samantha.

“Woody, I'm going to send you to Dr. Raymond at the heart clinic on the first floor. He has time for you now. He's a good man. He'll be running a battery of tests, I'm sure. He will be honest with you about your condition,” said Dr. Joe.

“Samantha, your dad is a nice guy but I didn't realize what a fear of doctors I have. Now I'm going to another. I don't suppose you will let me escape from here?”

“Not on your life. Dr. Raymond is very nice. I've known him since I was a kid. I know you are afraid Brad, but just think of walking Maggie down the aisle one day. That should spur you on to get to the bottom of your heart trouble.”

“Brad, you married a very persuasive woman.”

Dr. Raymond arranged for several tests for Woody. When the results were available, he told Woody his findings. He recommended surgery to replace his heart valves that had been damaged from the rheumatic fever. He told him it would be necessary for him to take medication for the rest of his life, but his prognosis was good.

“You mean I'm not going to die, Doc?”

“There are no guarantees, Woody, but I believe with surgery and medication, you will be with us for many years to come.”

He explained the surgery in detail but Woody couldn't concentrate. He couldn't wait to get back to Maggie and give her a hug.

“Whatever I have to do, Doc. I'll do it.”

The surgery was scheduled for the following morning. Samantha was happy they were able to take care if it so quickly. She was afraid if Woody thought about it, he may change his mind.

The surgery was successful, but Woody didn't feel any better. He woke up in the recovery room and wondered if he would ever feel good again. Something was in his throat and he couldn't speak. He heard a pleasant voice calling his name. He tried to tell her to take that thing out of his mouth. He couldn't see her but heard her say it had to stay in a while longer but he would feel so much better once he was able to breath without it. He wanted to reach up and yank it out himself but he couldn't move his arms. He felt himself drifting off again and then blessed sleep came once more.

Maggie was aware her father was having a very serious operation. Samantha knew she was trying to be brave.

“She won't be able to see her daddy until he is out of intensive care,” she said to Jillian Slater. Jillian was a good friend of Samantha's. They had gone through nursing school together. She would be one of the nurses taking care of Woody when he was assigned a room in the cardiac unit.

Samantha was hopeful her friend and Woody would hit it off. “Don't you think they would make a wonderful couple?” she asked Brad.

“Is Jillian interested in a relationship? Last I heard she had sworn off men after she found out the pharmaceutical salesman was married.”

“That was six months ago. She had her doubts about him right from the beginning. Woody is lonely, he just doesn't realize how lonely he is. Yes, I think they will make a wonderful couple.” Samantha smiled.

The critical days passed and Woody was moved out of intensive care. After getting him settled, Jillian told him he had a visitor. Maggie poked her head around the corner not sure what she would see.

“Hi Daddy,” she called out and ran to his side. “Jillian said I have to be careful because you have a bad sore on your chest.”

“I'm not too sore to get a hug from my best girl,” he said.

She stood by his side holding his hand. She wasn't sure what to make of all the tubes going into his body. Jillian explained everything to her in a way a little girl could understand. Maggie left with a smile on her face. Woody could hear her say to the nurses at the desk that her daddy was going to be alright because Jillian was helping him.

“You seem to have captured my daughter's heart,” Woody said.

“She is a very special little girl. She has been very worried about you. Samantha has been working hard to convince her you were going to be alright. It's difficult for a child to understand that their parent is safe when they can't see them. I can see the relief on her face.”

“How much longer until they spring me from this joint?” he said.

“Only a few days. Samantha said you were going to be staying with her while you recuperate. Dr. Roberts has asked me to look in on you when that time comes. Would you mind having me hang around to keep an eye on you?”

Woody looked into Jillian's eyes, he was beginning to realize what a pretty girl his nurse was. He must have been sicker than he thought if he was just beginning to notice her.

Dr. Roberts walked into the room. Woody could feel the perspiration forming on his forehead. Dr. Roberts noticed it too. “Still don't like doctors, huh Woody?”

“Sorry, Doc. I know you saved my life and I'm grateful to you for that.”

“Maybe it's the stethoscope, I'll set it over here out of sight.” The doctor placed his stethoscope on the table by the entry where Woody couldn't see it. “There, is that better?”

“Yes, that's amazing. I guess it isn't you, maybe it's just seeing the stethoscope. I wonder why I don't have that reaction when Jillian puts that thing on my chest.”

“Maybe you are distracted by her. After all, you are still a man.”

Jillian could feel her face heating up.

“I think, in time, you may get over your fear of doctors. You are going to be seeing them at least once a year from now on. Woody, you are doing nicely. You will have to take it easy for awhile. I'd rather you weren't alone during the day when you are discharged to Samantha and Brad's home. If you have no objection, I would like Jillian to provide home care for you.”

“I can't imagine why I would object. Just as long as she doesn't make me use a bed pan, we will get along just fine.”

“I'll agree to that,” Jillian laughed.

Each day Woody felt better. He liked all the nurses, but he found himself looking forward to morning when Jillian would begin her shift. He made sure he was up and out of bed, showered and shaved before 7:00 each morning.

Jillian and Maggie had become good pals. They both walked down the hall with Woody when it was time for him to exercise. Maggie had questions about everything she saw in the hospital room. Jillian took the time to carefully explain everything to her. Woody's doctor ordered some follow up testing. Maggie was waiting for him to return and sat on his bed pretending she was the patient.

“Jillian?” she said quietly. “May I ask you a question?”

“Of course you may, Maggie, you may ask me anything.”

She picked up her father's chart and said, “Does it say in here where my Mama is?”

It was the last thing Jillian expected to hear coming from the little girl. Samantha told her about Mallory and her plan for an abortion until Woody stopped her. She wondered what Woody had told her about her mother and if she had any business discussing it with the child.

“Maggie, I want to answer your question, but I don't know how. Would it be alright with you if I talk with your daddy first?”

“I don't think he knows where she is. I asked him one time and he said he didn't know where she went. I thought he was mad at me for asking so I didn't ask him again. Everybody has a mother except me. I think she didn't love me.”

“If she knew you, Maggie, she would love you.” Jillian hoped she hadn't said too much, but the heartbreak on Maggie's face was more than Jillian could bear.

Woody was wheeled back into the room. “Hello you two. Did you miss me? I missed you. Both of you,” he said.

Brad came by to pick up Maggie. She hugged her father and Jillian goodbye. Woody noticed his daughter and his nurse seemed to have formed a bond.

“Woody, are you up for a serious discussion?” Jillian said after Brad and Maggie left.

“Are you going to ask me to marry you? If so, my answer is yes.”

“This is serious Woody. Maggie asked me about her mother. She seemed to think there was information about her in your chart. I know this isn't my business, but Maggie has made it my business. I do know Maggie's mother has not been a part of her life. Woody, she is eight years old, she wants to know why she doesn't have a mother like the other children. I won't lie to her, but I don't feel it's my place to tell her the whole story.”

“I knew this day would come. She asked me about her mother one time and I evaded her question. I know it was wrong to do that, but I hoped having a father that loves her would be enough.”

“It's good that she has you. You haven't asked my opinion, but I think being honest with a child is the best thing for them.”

“How can I tell Maggie her mother wanted to abort her? That I had to pay the woman to bring a healthy child into the world. That she never wanted to see Maggie or hold her. How can I tell my daughter that?”

“The details aren't important. You explain that her mother never saw her, that she never held her that she didn't know her because if she had, she wouldn't have left her. You tell her her mother wasn't able to care for her and wanted the best for her so she gave her to you. You are her father and you love her more than anything or anyone in the world and you always will. Someday when she is a grown woman and asks questions, you can fill in the details. With your love and support through the years, I'm betting she will be able to accept what you tell her.”

“How did I ever get so lucky to have you come into my life? It sounds so simple when you say it. Would you be willing to be here when I tell Maggie about her mother?”

“Of course, now how about a stroll around the floor before your dinner arrives?”

The next afternoon, when Maggie came for a visit, Woody told her exactly what Jillian suggested.

“Maggie was thoughtful for a moment and said, “I'm glad you aren't mad at me for asking about my mama. Jillian told me she would love me if she knew me. I think I would love her too. I wish Jillian could be my mama. Can she Daddy? I really like her and she can take care of you.”

“Jillian lives in Camden Corners and we live in Boston, Maggie. That's awfully far away.”

“I like Camden Corners, Daddy. I don't want to go back to Boston. Can we stay, please?”

“Jillian, it's been six weeks since my surgery. Maggie is happy here and school will be starting next week. I can't impose on Samantha and Brad any longer than I already have. I'm thinking of staying here in Camden Corners. I don't mind giving up my job, I don't think the corporate world was ever what I really wanted.”

“What do you think you want to do, Woody?” Jillian said trying not to act excited about the possibility of him staying in town.

“I'd like to teach school. I have always liked history. I checked with the university and it wouldn't take much to get my degree in teaching.”

“I don't want to be nosy, but do you have enough money to stop working and go to school?” Jillian asked.

“Haven't I mentioned this before? My family owns Gillespie's Department Stores.”

“Your family owns Gillespie's and you never thought to tell me that? Woody, you are a billionaire.”

“Not a billionaire, a multimillionaire, maybe,” he said quietly.

“How could you keep something like that from me?”

“I didn't think about it. Does it make a difference? Are you telling me you won't marry me because I have too much money?”

“You probably do have too much money but that's not the reason I won't marry you. I won't marry you because you haven't asked me to marry you.”

“I'm asking you now. Jillian, will you marry me and Maggie? She and I both love you very much.”

“I love you both very much too and yes, I will be happy to marry you. I hope you know I'm not a big fan of huge diamond rings.”

“I didn't think you were, that's why I bought you this one. He took a velvet box out of his pocket and opened it. It was a solitary diamond, not too big and not too small.”

“It's perfect, Woody.”

Maggie came running into the room and wrapped her arms around Jillian. “You are going to be my mama now. I love you Jillian.”

“I love you too, Maggie.”

Maggie

Chapter Forty Two

Maggie

“Hi, Mom, I hope it isn't too late to be calling,” Samantha Clifford said quietly into the phone.

“Samantha, it's not too late, what's wrong, dear? You sound upset. Is Brad alright? The kids?”

“Everyone is fine. It's just that the strangest thing happened tonight. Brad is on a book tour in California and he's right in the middle of a signing now so I can't call him.

“About an hour ago, an old friend and roommate of Brad's came to the door with his daughter, Maggie. His name is Woodrow Malone. He is from Boston and I've never met him before. Brad has talked about his time with Woody, but I really don't know much about him. He seems like a nice enough fellow.

“He said he had been deployed to Afghanistan and he had no one to take care of Maggie while he is gone. It took me by surprise and before I knew it I was offering to watch over her while he was gone.

“Mom, she is sleeping upstairs and Woody Malone has vanished. After he left I started remembering some things Brad said about him. He had rheumatic fever when he was a toddler and it affected his heart. He would never be accepted into the service, let alone be deployed to Afghanistan.

“I'm usually so level headed, I don't know what came over me. Woody told me a sob story about how his wife had died giving birth to Maggie. She is a pretty little girl and has the saddest eyes. What in the world could this man want from us?”

In the California bookstore where Cooper Dillon was signing his new book, the doors were finally closing after the last patron's departure. Bradley Clifford was relieved this book tour was almost over. It wasn't his favorite thing to do, but it helped to sell his books, so it was a necessary evil. Cooper Dillon was Brad's pen name. He was a well known mystery writer. He met Samantha Mackenzie when he was holed up in a cabin in the foothills of Camden Corners. Samantha had come to the cabin to unwind after aiding in the aftermath of a serious accident. Samantha was a trauma nurse who had never become immune to the suffering she witnessed when a tragedy occurred.

Brad discovered his ancestors owned the abandoned cabin, but the state owned the property it was built on. He found his way to it through the woods. With his manual typewriter he began writing again after a long spell of writer's block. Being secluded in the cabin without any modern conveniences triggered his imagination. He didn't even mind using the outhouse or bathing in the stream that ran behind the cabin.

Samantha Mackenzie surprised him one day when he returned to the cabin clad only in a soaking wet towel. He lost track of time and hadn't realized he had been living there for two months while writing two novels. On the trip down the mountain, he couldn't take his eyes off the rear view mirror. Samantha was behind him in her Jeep. He was surprised by a young boy driving his motorcycle erratically. Brad was forced off the road and down an embankment. Samantha saved not only his life, but his manuscripts while risking her own safety. Brad didn't know when he had fallen in love with her, but suspected it was the day she stood in the cabin's only room trying to avert her eyes from his wet towel.

Samantha and Brad were married on the grounds of The Merryweather where Sam and her mother lived when they first arrived in Camden Corners. Brad had taken a liking to the little town and gave up his apartment in the city. He never regretted that decision. Within a year Samantha gave birth to their son, Joseph Gregory Clifford. Joey was named after Samantha's two dads. Eighteen months later, Eric Bradley Clifford came along followed by their little sister, Daisy two years later.

“Samantha, I'm going to send your dad over,” said Melanie. “I don't want you to be alone.”

“I'm sure I will be fine, Mom. Woody didn't seem menacing and Maggie is very sweet and quiet. She fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. I don't even know why I'm calling you. I'm not frightened, I just think it's strange.”

“Sam, this wouldn't be the first time your intuition alerted you to danger. Why don't you pack everyone up and come over here? I'd feel better if I know you are safe.”

“I can't do that, especially with Maggie here. I'll be fine, I'm sure. I shouldn't have called, I know you will only worry about us all night.”

“At least call Brad. You can leave a message for him to call when he's free. Maybe he can describe his friend to you to make sure he is who he says he is. For heaven sake, how much longer can that bookstore be open? Never mind. It is three hours earlier there. I'm calling Luke, I'm sure he is up studying. I'll have him stop by to check on you.”

“Mom, don't do that. Luke needs his study time.”

“Call Brad dear, and call me if you need anything at all.”

Samantha wasn't surprised when her brother knocked on the door. “Samantha, it's Luke, Mom said you needed me.”

“Luke, I'm so sorry, it's nothing, really.” She explained the situation to him.

“It does seem peculiar. I'm just reading and I can do that here as well as in my apartment. Go to bed if you want to. I like being the one Mom asks to protect my sister. Maybe she is realizing I'm not a little kid anymore.”

“You know Mom, we will always be her little kids. I'm waiting for Brad to call. Mom said to describe Woody to him to see if he is who he says he is.”

“Samantha, I had a message to call you,” said Brad. “Is everything alright there?”

“Hi Brad, everything is fine, I seem to be alarming everyone tonight.” Samantha explained the situation and the guest to Brad.

“If Woody was there, he wasn't telling you the truth. He would never be able to pass a military physical. I'm glad Luke is with you. It sounds like it could have been Woody, but check that box of clippings in the hall closet. There is one from several years ago with a picture. Woody is standing next to me and holding up a copy of Baby Blue Eyes. If I remember correctly, it's a fairly clear picture of him.”

“I remember that one. It scared me to death. The title was very deceiving,” Sam said as she was going through the box of clippings.

“Here it is. That's him alright. He is much thinner, but he has the same face.”

“I remember that night,” said Brad. “We met at a pub after the signing. He wanted to talk about a girl who he'd had brief relationship with. It didn't last too long, but she became pregnant. She came to him for money to pay for an abortion. He was against it and offered her money to continue the pregnancy. She agreed, had the baby and then gave up all rights to her.

“He was crazy about that little girl. She would be around eight years old by now. I can't imagine why he would tell you that story and I can't imagine why he would give up his daughter after all these years. I'll be home in two days and we can try to figure this out. I haven't heard from Woody since shortly after the baby was born. I don't have any reason to believe Woody is dangerous, but I'm glad Luke is there with you and the children.”

The following morning, Maggie was the first of the children to wake up, she walked down stairs and offered to help Samantha with breakfast. The young girl knew her way around the kitchen. Samantha let her scramble the eggs and had to admit they were quite tasty. Daisy was a chatterbox and asked the visitor all the questions Samantha wanted to ask herself. Maggie was the most evasive eight year old Samantha had ever known.

After breakfast, Joey went up to the room he and Eric shared. He came charging down the stairs with an empty sock in his hand. “Where is my money?” he shouted looking directly at Eric. “Mom, my money's gone and Eric stole it. I'm gonna kill him!”

“I didn't steal your dumb old money!”

“Joey, calm down. Are you sure that was the sock you put it in. You are constantly counting that money, maybe you forgot to put it back into the sock. Did you look under your bed?”

“I know I put it back in there last night before I went to bed. It's gone.”

“I'll help you look for it, when we clean your room later. Right now I want you to rake the leaves on the front lawn. Eric will help you.”

“That brings back memories,” said Luke. “Staci and I were always taking things from Robbie and hiding them. He used to get so mad at us. The madder he got, the more we did it.”

“Maggie, do you want to see my doll house?” said Daisy. “My grandma and grandpa gave it to me last Christmas, it's in my room.”

Maggie followed Daisy silently. Two minutes later, Daisy's shriek could be heard in the kitchen. “The baby is gone! Somebody took my baby.”

Samantha looked at Luke, “It's going to be an interesting day. I hope you will be able to get some studying done.

“That's strange, I put my watch here before I rinsed the dishes. It seems to have disappeared. Eric might swipe something from his brother and sister, but he would never take something of mine.”

Luke and Samantha looked at each other. “Do you suppose your young guest is a kleptomaniac?” asked Luke.

“I'd say that was a definite maybe. Now I need to know what to do about it. Joey didn't have much money in that sock, but I can understand why someone would take money regardless of the amount. A baby from a doll house and a nurses watch are two different things. Makes you wonder if she isn't doing it knowing she will be caught.”

“Mom!” another shriek from Daisy's room. “Maggie has my doll in her pocket. She took Joey's money too.”

“Daisy, stop your shouting. You and Maggie come downstairs”

Daisy stomped down the stairs holding Maggie by the arm. The fact that Maggie was at least a foot taller than Daisy didn't seem to intimidate her.

“Maggie, do you have Daisy's baby?”

“Yes, ma'am,” she answered.

“Do you also have Joey's money and my watch?”

“Yes, ma'am, are you going to send me home?”

“Is that why you took these things? Did you want us to send you home?”

“Yes, ma'am, I want to be with my daddy,” her chin quivered and she began to cry. Her crying turned into sobs. Samantha held her close and let her cry until there were no more tears.

“Do you know where your daddy is, Maggie?” Luke asked.

“I don't know where he is, he didn't say goodbye. He told me we were coming to his old friend's house for a long visit, but he didn't tell me he wasn't going to stay too. It is nice in this house and I like everybody, but I miss my daddy.” Her chin started to quiver again, but there were no more tears.

“Maggie, your daddy left last night without telling us where we can reach him. What is the phone number to your home?”

“I tried to call this morning but a lady came on and said it was not in surface.”

“I think she said not in service,” said Luke.

“Maybe that is what she said.”

“Where do you live, Maggie?”

“In Boston. That's in Massachusetts.”

Samantha's heart was breaking for this little girl who seemed to be alone in the world now that her father had obviously disappeared. I wish Brad was here she thought to herself. I don't know what to do.

The door opened and Brad appeared as if he'd heard her wish. “I canceled the rest of the tour. I couldn't let you handle this alone.” He kissed his wife and hugged the children.

“Luke, I'm glad you are here. This must be Maggie. Hi sweetheart, aren't you a pretty girl?”

Samantha told Brad what Maggie told her which wasn't much.

Daisy took Maggie by the hand again. She let her hold the doll house baby as they walked up the stairs to Daisy's room.

Maggie smiled at Samantha, Brad and Luke. “I'm glad you didn't send me away, I like it here but I do miss my daddy.”

Samantha gave Joey back his money. He was so happy to have it he didn't think to ask where his mother had found it. Samantha was glad, she didn't want to lie to her son or tell him it was found in Maggie's pocket.

The girls played outside most of the afternoon. The sound of all the children laughing came in through the window. Maggie seemed to be forgetting her troubles for a little while anyway. She giggled right along with the rest of them.

After dinner, the children watched a rented movie while Brad was in the den talking to Jack Crowley about locating the missing man.

He heard the doorbell and then heard Maggie call out, “Daddy!”

“I think he has reappeared, Jack,” said Brad.

“Call me if you need my help for any reason, Brad. Good luck!”

Brad walked to the front hallway where Woody was on his knees hugging his daughter.

“Why did you leave, Daddy? I didn't think you were going to come back for me. I did a terrible thing so Samantha would make me go back home, but she didn't.”

“I'm so sorry, pumpkin. I love you,” Woody said with tears in his eyes.

“Come on, children. Let's let Maggie and her dad talk. Pause the movie and we will go make some popcorn,” said Samantha.

“Maggie, you go with Samantha. I need to talk with Brad.”

“You promise you won't leave again, Daddy.”

“I promise, now run along.”

“Let's go in the den where we can talk. I'd like to know the reason why you left your daughter here without any explanation to anyone. I never knew you to be cruel Woody, but that was a terrible thing to do to her. I might add, I'm not happy that you placed this burden on my wife either.”

“Brad, I didn't intend to walk away like I did yesterday. I knew the minute I met Samantha that she would take care of Maggie. I was going to fill both of you in on my plan, but when I thought of saying goodbye to Maggie, I broke down. I couldn't let her last memory of her father be one that was crying like a baby. It seemed best just to leave. I know now it was the wrong thing to do.

“I can't leave Maggie without letting her know I love her. I have to find a way to tell her I'm dying.”

Same Time Next Year

Chapter Forty One

Same Time Next Year

Butch Haley waited patiently in the airport. Because of airport security in recent years, he wasn't able to watch the plane make its way to the gate.

He remembered his father coming home from week long business trips. His mother would pile him and his brothers and sisters into the station wagon and make the one hour drive to the airport where they would all stand at the window with their noses pressed against the glass watching the plane pull up to the gate. It seemed to take forever until the doors were opened and the passengers walked into the terminal. Dad always greeted them each with a big bear hug before he picked their mother off the ground and swung her around. He wished he could do that with Beth today, but he knew Megan, his fifteen year old daughter would be mortified. He had a hard time convincing her to come with him to greet her mother.

The truth was, he didn't trust her being alone in the house for the two plus hours it would take to get from home to the airport and back. Beth was right to be concerned about Megan and the boy she was hanging around with. Whatever his name was, he thought to himself. Maybe he couldn't remember it because he didn't want to. He couldn't understand what Megan saw in this kid. He was tempted to buy him a belt since his pants were always sliding down over his shorts. How could anyone walk around like that? What was that thing suppose to be that grew out from his chin. The kid looked like a billy goat. The tattoos and earrings didn't help to endear him to Butch either.

What ever happened to that sweet little girl who used to run to the door when he came home from work and greet him with big hugs and cookie flavored kisses? The young girl who would dissolve in laughter when he told her a silly joke or tickled her toes while she played with her brothers on the floor? When had she turned so sullen? Beth said this was a phase she was going through. How long could a phase last? He looked over at her standing away from the crowd madly pushing buttons on that darned phone she never let out of her sight. I want my little girl back, he thought to himself as the passengers started appearing.

“Beth, over here,” Butch called out when he saw her.

“Butch, am I ever glad to see you. I missed you all so much.” Beth looked around and saw her daughter completely absorbed in her latest text messaging. Beth threw her arms around Butch and kissed him hello. She didn't care if she embarrassed her daughter. She missed her husband and was happy to see him.

“Most of us missed you too, sweetheart,” he said as he glared at Megan.

Megan put her phone in her purse and walked over to her mother. “Hi,” was all that came out of her lips.

Beth was full of chatter on the way home. Megan heard her say the whole family would be going to The Merryweather next summer. She rolled her eyes and went back to texting.

“Where are the boys?” asked Beth. At least they wouldn't treat her like a pariah, she thought.

“Brady wanted to come but his game is today. Cody offered to drive him while I came to pick you up. Brady is pitching today, if the traffic cooperates we will be able to make it for a few innings. That is if you aren't too tired from the trip.”

“Oh yes, I want to see him pitch. He told me when I called that Coach Bryant told him he'd be on the mound this week. I'm so happy for him. It was nice of Cody to go to the game. He's proud of his little brother, isn't he?”

“Was that shot meant for me?” came a surly voice from the back seat.

“Well, what do you know, there really is a live person back there. I hope we didn't disturb you with our chatter, Megan.” Beth said sarcastically.

“So, did they think you were fat?” Megan said with just a hint of pleasure.

“It didn't come up for discussion,” Beth lied. She wasn't about to tell Megan about her little spat with Brenda on the first day. It was long forgotten.

“Megan, apologize to your mother. That was a hurtful thing to say,” said Butch shaking his head.

“That's alright, Butch. I was worried about the weight I have gained. I tried cutting back on my food intake this week, but we all overindulged in sweets. Even Brenda, who brought seven suitcases filled with size three clothes.

“Can you believe, I actually ran with her in the mornings? She slowed her pace so I could keep up. I found I really enjoyed running. I'm thinking about joining the gym when I get back and settled. Darlene's husband had a stroke several months ago. Darlene said he was a little overweight and didn't exercise at all. After the loss of his job, the stress and his physical condition were factors that led to his illness.”

“That sounds like a good plan. I think I'll join you. I could stand to get in better shape. I understand exercise helps relieve stress too,” said Butch as he glanced in the rear view mirror.

Brady's team won the game thanks to Brady's pitching. He was happy to see his mother and happy that she was able to see his pitching debut.

The summer passed quickly and Cody was off to college for his freshman year. Beth was sad the family, as she knew it, would never be quite the same.

Brady's team ended the season by going to the state championships. They didn't win, but they were happy just to qualify. Brady missed his brother, but Butch was there to help him practice his pitching all through the winter months.

Megan's boyfriends changed, but they all looked the same to Butch. He never bothered to learn any of their names. He was afraid her fingers would be nothing but nubs in twenty years thanks to the constant texting.

“Does she ever actually speak to anyone?” he asked Brenda one day. “I know she doesn't often speak to us.”

Butch and Beth did join the gym and both of them made an effort to eat healthier. It worked. They both lost weight and felt years younger. It gave them an excuse to do something together that didn't involve the children. They found they enjoyed running and started each day with a run before breakfast.

Spring arrived and plans were being made to spend a week at The Merryweather. Cody was finishing up his freshman year and would be working at the fast food restaurant where he worked all through high school. His boss already told him he would give him the time off for his family vacation. Brady was excited when he found out the resort had a pool and a lake where he and his dad could go fishing. Megan refused to go saying she would run away from home if they made her go to that stupid place. She was sixteen and Butch thought it was high time her phase came to an end.

“Megan, we are going to Camden Corners. If you wish to join us, you will put a smile on your face and keep it there. If you choose not to share one week of your life with your family, you may do so, but you will not be welcome in our home again.”

Beth was appalled. Butch didn't make empty threats. She had to admit Megan had put a strain on the entire family. Beth had visions of her living in a commune with Tyler or Tyrone or whatever the latest kid's name was. She prayed Megan wouldn't walk out the door that very day.

Nothing more was said and on the day they were leaving for Camden Corners, Megan carried her suitcase down the stairs, put it in the van and sat in the back seat with her phone in her hand ready to text.

“You won't be needing this while we are gone,” Butch said as he took the phone out of her hand.

“Give me back my phone, Dad.”

“I believe this is my phone since I pay the bill for it every month,” he marched back into the house and put it on the kitchen counter. He then checked to make sure all the appliances were off and the doors and windows locked. He sat behind the wheel and smiled at Beth.

In the back seat sat his daughter even more sullen than she usually was.

“Did we turn off the coffee pot? I don't remember doing it,” said Darlene Powers when they were about an hour away from their home.

“Yes, dear,” said her husband, Curt. “I turned it off. Even if we left it on, it turns off by itself.”

“Are you sure you are alright driving? Travis can take over if you are getting tired.”

“Darlene, what is wrong with you? I've never seen you so nervous.”

“I'm sorry, Curt. I am nervous. This is such a long way for you to drive. You are still recovering from the stroke, I just wonder if you are rushing things.”

“The doctor told you yesterday there was no problem with my driving. Don't you believe him?”

“Let's just change the subject. Who wants to count cows?”

“No Mom,” said Angie, “you always win that game. You can count faster than any of us.”

“Why don't we count the bugs that are splattering on the windshield?” Travis piped in.

“Travis you are so annoying. Now I'm going to be looking at those bugs all the way to Camden Corners,” said Angie.

“Before we check into The Merryweather, we'll stop at a car wash. We wouldn't want your mother's friends to think we brought the whole insect population to Camden Corners with us.”

“After the car wash can we get something to eat? I'm starving.”

“Have a cookie, dear. That will tide you over until we get there.”

“He has eaten them all, Mother. I don't know where he puts all the food he consumes,” said Angie.

Darlene thought about last year when she made the trip by herself. What a difference a year made. She was driving a borrowed BMW and worrying that the girls would know she was broke. It didn't take long before she told them the truth.

Curt was doing so well. He still had some weakness, but he was almost back to normal. She trembled thinking of him lying on the floor of the garage after the stroke. She thought she'd lost him. Even after he regained consciousness, his whole left side was paralyzed. Once the shock of what happened to him wore off, he was determined to overcome the paralysis. He worked diligently and now, almost eighteen months later, he was well on the road to a complete recovery.

The family was doing better financially too. Curt was rehired in his old job. As part of his therapy, he began building furniture. It had been a hobby for several years and with all his other activities in the community, he had given it up due to lack of time. His friends and neighbors had been so helpful to him and the family, he began making small tables and bookcases as a thank you. His work was very professional and before he knew it, he was building hutches and china cabinets for those people plus others who had admired his efforts. He was amazed at the price people were willing to pay. The people who purchased his furniture thought they were getting a bargain, so everyone was happy.

Curt knew how lucky he was. The ordeal had not been easy on his family. He would be forever grateful to them and to all those who saw him through his fight.

They arrived at The Merryweather. Angie and Travis were impressed with the resort. They thought it was going to be a stuffy old place when they heard the building had been around for a couple hundred years. They were happy when they saw there were many kids their age splashing around in the pool. Others were water skiing and jet skiing in Camden Lake. They later found out many of them were residents of Camden Corners and were more than willing to have the visitors join them.

Beth and her family were the next to arrive. Beth was determined her daughter was not going to ruin their vacation. She was tired of trying to cajole Megan out of her constant horrible mood. She introduced the entire family to Darlene's family. Cody and Angie hit it off immediately, they talked about freshman year and how happy they were it was behind them. They agreed to meet at the pool after they unpacked. Brady caught a glimpse of a some boys playing catch by the lake and was halfway in the cabin to find his swim trunks until he realized they were still in his suitcase. His father caught him by seat of the pants.

“Hold on buddy, let's get everything in order and then you have the whole week to do whatever you want.”

Travis carried in the luggage and noticed the girl they introduced as Megan. If she's as good at smiling as she is at sulking, she could be cute. There were many other cute girls by the pool, he wasn't going to waste his time with one that obviously preferred to be alone.

Monica came running down the sidewalk. “I'm sorry I'm late,” she cried. “The baby was sleeping. She can be pretty grouchy when she doesn't get enough sleep.”

Unpacking duties came to an end when Beth and Darlene saw Monica with her daughter.

“Meet Merry Lynnette Lawrence. We named her after The Merryweather. Since we met here, fell in love here and conceived her here, we thought the name fit.

“Monica, I can't believe you have a baby,” said Beth. “You look like a natural. Where is that handsome husband of yours?”

“He's unloading the van. I can't believe how much one little baby needs. We could have stayed at our house, but we thought it would be much more fun to be here with everyone. Here comes Jonathan now.

“It's so wonderful to see you again. Beth, you look fabulous. Darlene, Curt looks great, how did he manage the drive here? I know you were worried.”

“He did fine. I worried for nothing. I'm good at that,” she laughed.

“Here comes Brenda with her new family,” said Beth. “What a doll little Allison is. Brenda looks so much healthier than she did last year.”

“Seth is a handsome devil,” said Monica. “I'm so happy the billionaire is out of her life. Look at the difference in her in just a year's time.”

“That is quite a difference, she's pregnant,” said Darlene.

The friends hugged and squealed like school girls. They introduced the men and they all hit it off. The only unhappy member of the entire group was Megan Haley.

Everyone was settled in their cabins. Brady Haley had joined the boys playing ball. Cody and Angie were riding jet skis. Three year old Allison Barton was introducing her favorite doll to baby Merry.

“Allison is going to be a wonderful big sister to the new baby,” said Darlene. “Do you know if this one is a boy or girl?”

“No, I'm scheduled for an ultrasound when we get back. I honestly don't care. Last year at this time, I never thought I'd be a mother with a baby on the way. I owe it all to you girls. You made me see my life was a train wreck.”

“Brenda you would have seen it for yourself before too much longer. I think you were ready for someone to suggest you were a very unhappy rich lady,” said Monica.

“What did you do with all those skinny clothes?” said Beth. “I was so jealous, I couldn't have gotten my left leg into some of those dresses.”

“You really look great, Beth. I didn't want to mention weight since the subject was not a pleasant one last year,” said Brenda. “Everything except the outfits I bought right here in Camden Corners went back to Randall along with the fancy luggage. The only thing I saved out of that marriage were the mink bedroom slippers. I knew my mother would love them and I was right. She wears them every morning no matter what the weather.”

“You look better too, Brenda. I'd forgotten how pretty you are with a little meat on your bones.”

“My mama has meat on her bones?” said Allison with a surprised look on her face. They all laughed at the adorable little girl.

“Megan doesn't look very happy,” said Darlene. “I know those teen years can be brutal. Angie went through a rough patch too.”

“A rough patch, I could handle. Megan has been like this for well over a year. I was afraid Butch was going to disown her just before our trip here. He has reached the end of his rope with her. The latest pity party is because he took her phone away and left it at home. I have spoken with her counselors and our pastor and everyone tells me she will snap out of it. I hope they are right. Luckily, she has kept her grades up through it all.”

Travis had been watching Megan from the pool. There was something about her that intrigued him. He had seen his share of pouty girls through high school and tended to ignore them. He got out of the pool, grabbed a towel and went over to the bench where she was sitting.

“The kids around here are awesome. Wouldn't you like to get your suit on and come in the pool with us?”

“I'm good,” Megan said without smiling.

“Who are you peeved at? The world or just one person in particular?”

“What's it to you?”

“Hey, I didn't want to come to this little town either. It was something my mom wanted and after what happened to my dad, I try to see their side of things. I'm glad I came, I think it's going to be fun. I'll leave you alone, if that makes you happy.”

“What happened to your dad?” Megan had heard her mom say something about her friend's husband, but she was too busy texting to pay much attention.

“My dad had a stroke. It happened when we were having an argument and I thought it was my fault. Mom and Dad both said it wasn't, but I'll never get over feeling guilty.”

“Why would it be your fault? That's a medical condition, not something someone else causes.”

“You don't understand. I told my dad I hated him and the next thing I knew he was on the floor. I thought he was dead.”

“I hate my dad too. He made me come on this stupid trip and then he took my cell phone away. This place is lame. I just want to go home. Why do you hate your dad?”

“I don't hate him anymore. About three years ago, I was looking at bikes. My dad told me when I turned sixteen he would help me buy one. He said he would give me half the money if I saved the other half.

“I mowed lawns, I shoveled snow, I saved all my money from my paper route, I even baby sat for the little monsters who lived down the street. It took me over a year but I finally had enough. My birthday was only a month away. I would go to the bike shop every day after school just to make sure the bike was still there.

“I came home one afternoon and Dad said he wanted to talk to me. He had been laid off from work two months before and couldn't find another job. It never entered my mind that it would be a problem for him to come up with his half of the money. When he told me he was going to have to renege on our deal because he had to help Angie buy a car for college, I couldn't believe it. I threw a fit. I told Dad I hated him, that he was a lousy father. That he couldn't even keep a stupid factory job. I started walking out of the garage when I heard him fall. I turned around and he was on the floor. One side of his face was drooping and his arm looked like it wasn't even attached to his body. I yelled for my mother. She called 911 and the ambulance came. Mom rode with him in the ambulance, and Angie drove us to the hospital.

“He wasn't dead, but when I saw him, I thought he would never recover. He looked almost grotesque. He couldn't speak. He just looked at me and I thought it was because he blamed me for what happened to him. It didn't matter, because I blamed myself even more.

“It took him many months to recover. He has made almost a full recovery because he worked so hard at it. His physical therapist said he had never seen someone so determined to return to the way he had been. I was proud of my dad. I watched as he struggled day after day. He was always cheerful and never complained about the pain he was in. Ed, his therapist showed me some exercises to help him with and I worked with him after school and on weekends. I start college this fall and I'm planning to go into physical therapy. I want to help people like my dad.”

Megan was fascinated with Travis's story. “Did your dad ever forgive you?”

“He never blamed me in the first place. Money was pretty tight, but once he started to build furniture and was able to start work again, he promised he would buy me a motorcycle.”

“Did he buy it?” Megan asked.

“No, after all that happened, I decided I really didn't want a motorcycle after all. It reminds me of all my dad went through.

“I didn't mean to get into all that, Megan. I'll leave you alone.” Travis got up to walk away.

“Travis, thanks for telling me that. Maybe I'll get my suit on. It's getting pretty hot out here,” she smiled the biggest smile Travis had ever seen. He was right, she was very cute.

Beth looked up and saw Megan running toward her. She was afraid something terrible had happened until she saw Megan smiling.

“I love you, Mom,” she said wrapping her arms around the back of her mother's neck. “I'm changing into my bathing suit. I'll see you later.” Butch was at the putting green with the other men. She ran up to him and hugged him too. “I love you, Dad,” she said before she disappeared into the cabin. She stepped out in her bathing suit and ran to the pool.

Beth was tempted to tell her not to run, but held her tongue. She tried not to keep glancing in her daughter's direction, but she couldn't help it when she heard laughter coming from the pool.

Bruce walked up to his wife. “Do we dare hope we have our little girl back again?”

“I have my fingers crossed that the phase has ended.”

Travis asked his dad if he could borrow the car. He was going to check out the college here. The local kids told him they had a fine medical program. He and Megan were going to get some information. Travis thought he might transfer to the university after his freshman year and Megan could begin after graduation next spring.

Megan told her mother, “Of course, I'm going to study nursing. You know I have always been proud that my mother is a nurse and I want to follow in your footsteps.”

Beth had never heard her say that before, but was very pleased to hear it now.

“Bruce, I don't know what it is about Camden Corners, but it truly is a magical place.”

“I agree, I like the Powers boy, he knows what belts were invented for.”

“The fearsome foursome has decided to make this little vacation a yearly event. How do you fellows feel about that?”

“Funny, we figured you would be suggesting that and we are all in agreement. We are booked for the same time next year.”