Now a word from the author

I did it! I wrote over 50, 000 words in one month.
The novel is about 3/4ths of the way done.
I'll continue to post it.
In fact, I've found that it relaxes me when I write,
after dealing with staying in the lines all day.

Love breaking out of the box.

PS I fixed Chapter 20
Thanks Steve-o

Chapters 24 & 25

I fell asleep thinking about the stuff Mavis had told me. A lot of it didn’t make sense, especially the part about there not being much blood around Eva’s body. Did this mean she had been killed somewhere else and then moved? But to move a bleeding body would have left blood all over the person who moved her. Mavis didn’t know if there was blood all over the guy who hurt Javelin. Why was Eva there in the first place? And where was Dirk when all this was going on? Mavis said no one had seen Dirk. Did he have something to do with this?

I couldn’t imagine Javelin witnessing someone hurt Eva without trying to intervene. He might not have liked her but he wasn’t so cold-blooded that he would stand by and allow murder to happen. I fell asleep with these questions on my brain. This time I slept soundly with no nightmares marring my slumber.

The next day I sat by the phone, waiting to hear from the elder Mr. Bow-Ridge, but he never called. When the phone did ring, it was Tiki Smith.

“Hey Viv, just the person I need to talk to,” he said in his usual cheery voice.

“Hi Tiki, any news on Eva’s murder?” I asked, knowing he probably wouldn’t tell me anything.

“We’re still investigating. In fact, the Sheriff wants you to drop by his office today. He’s talking to all of Eva’s classmates. It’s routine, so don’t get worried,” he said.

“Sure, I’ll be there. Any particular time?“ I asked.

“Try to get here within the next hour. We’ve got a lot to do, Vivian,“ he said.

“Sure. Tiki, how could something like this happen? Do you have any idea who did it?” I asked.

“We’re checking out leads. That’s all I can say. I hope you understand,” Tiki said.

“I do. See you later.”

After I hung up with Tiki, I told Mother I had to go to the station to answer some questions about Eva. I secretly wished that she would volunteer to drive me but she didn’t. All she said was, “Be careful, honey. If you need someone, call your Father.” I should have known she wouldn’t come along, but the lonely girl inside me wished differently.

The Sheriff’s department was a swarm of activity. I was directed to wait in an interview room that had a mirror on one wall. The room was very quiet. I sat at the table facing the mirror. The tingle on my forehead told me someone was watching me through the mirror. It felt like I had stepped into a mystery novel and was waiting for the cops to come in and play their game of ‘good cop/bad cop.’ After about twenty minutes of waiting, Sheriff Florence and Tiki came into the interview room.

“Good afternoon, Miss Wilde.” He said, shaking my hand. Tiki nodded at me and smiled at me. I smiled back at Tiki.

“Hi, Sheriff Florence,” I said. My hands were clammy. The waiting gave me time to think about Eva’s murder. I had a feeling it was done on purpose, to throw me off guard, so that it would be easy to tell if I were lying. I had nothing to hide and thought it a waste of time to make me sit and stew, so to speak.

“As you know Eva Clark was murdered yesterday around lunchtime. Where were you between 11 am and 1 pm?” He asked.

Tiki answered for me, “Sir, I checked with her father this morning. He said she was at home during those hours, helping her mother with blueberry preserves. They sell them.”

Sheriff Florence frowned. “Deputy Smith, I asked Miss Wilde a question, not you. Maybe you should be out following leads. I’m a big boy. I can question Miss Wilde all by myself.”

Tiki didn’t look too pleased with the sheriff’s order. He stood up from the table, but didn’t leave right away. The sheriff looked at him over his reading glasses and said, “Deputy Smith, is there a problem?”

Tiki gulped and said, “No sir. It’s just that I know Miss Wilde very well and she isn’t involved in this investigation.”

“I’m not saying she is, Deputy. There are just a few questions regarding Miss Clark’s background that I want to ask Miss Wilde about. You’re excused, Deputy. And that’s an order.” The sheriff waited until the door closed behind Tiki to continue. “Now, Miss Wilde can you tell me in your own words where you were and what you were doing between 11 am and 1 pm yesterday?”

“I was at my house. Mother and I were making blueberry preserves. We worked until 2 pm, then I got a shower and waited for my boyfriend, James Bow-Ridge III to call but he never did. We had plans for an afternoon date. Instead, a friend called and told me about Eva’s murder and his accident. I left and went directly to the emergency room.”

He wrote down everything I said. Nothing was said for at least five minutes, after he repeated what I had said. Sheriff Florence studied my words, as if looking for a hidden code within their spaces. Finally he asked, “What’s your opinion of Miss Clark?”

I cleared my throat and tried to be fair and just in my statement. “She’s a good person. I’ve known her since first grade. She is popular at school. A lot of people like her.”

“Don’t you mean ‘was,’ Miss Wilde?”

His correction of Eva’s current status startled me. I said, “It’s hard to believe she’s gone, sir.”
Sheriff Florence‘s voice was as sharp as a knife, cutting into me. “You’re happy about that, aren’t you Miss Wilde? She was your rival and had in fact, stolen your boyfriend away from you. Most girls would want their rival dead and out of the way. And she is now. Dead and out of the way.”

“She’s not my rival. I would never wish for something as awful as that. Trent broke up with me before he started dating Eva. Ask Paul, he knows all the facts.”

“I’m not questioning my son. I’m question you, Miss Wilde. Let’s stay focused. A girl like Eva would have many enemies, especially jealous ones.”

“Sir, I have never been jealous of Eva. No matter what you may think of our relationship, she has been a good friend to me.”

“Until this summer,” he said.

As honest as I could be, I said, “Sheriff Florence, it’s true that Eva and I haven’t been close this summer. I don’t know why she chose to alienate me and some of our other close friends. Whatever her reasons were, I won’t ever know. But I’ll say this, Eva had a good heart and she worked hard to better herself. That’s all I have to say about her.”

He suddenly smiled. “Very good, Miss Wilde. I knew the truth would come out. A few of your friends have said that she had distanced herself from most of her friends. I know how you teen-agers gossip. Have you heard anything about Eva, even if it sounds crazy?”

I was a little angry with his treatment of me. Why did he think he had to make me upset to get what he considered the truth. I answered, “No sir.” Then I said, “Wait a minute. Someone told me they saw her talking to a tall man one night outside of Sadie Ruth’s tavern. But I can’t remember who said it or when they saw her.”

“You can’t remember who told you this?” He asked, suddenly as watchful as a vulture.

“No sir. But if I do, I’ll call or come by,” I said.

He closed his notebook, smiling at me. I could see where Paul got his good lucks. Sheriff Florence said, “I’m sorry that your boyfriend had to be moved to a different hospital. It must be hard on you.”

I wasn’t expecting him to be so nice, especially regarding Javelin. “It is. I haven’t heard anything today. I’m worried.”

“I could take you someplace for a coke, if you like.” He leaned towards me. This man was full of surprises.

“Thanks but I’ll be okay, sir.” I said, a bit uneasy.

“Oh, little girl there are plenty of places to go if you’re afraid of being seen with an old guy like me,” said Sheriff Florence. He leaned closer, examining my hair. “You should let your hair down. Have some excitement.”

“Thanks but I don’t have time for that, sir. The blueberries call. Are we done?” I asked.

“Yes. It appears we are.” He straightened abruptly. From his stiff form, I could tell he wasn’t thrilled with my declining his offer for excitement. He didn’t say another word, as I walked out of the interview room. Nor did he take his eyes off me. I stilled the urge to run from him, to run as fast as I could.

Tiki was coming into the building as I was leaving. He said, “Viv, you look upset. How did it go?”

“As well as can be expected. It’s hard to believe Eva’s gone. The sheriff asked about the people she hung out with. I don’t know of anyone in particular other than the usual crowd.” Looking at Tiki I suddenly remembered who had mentioned Eva with a strange man. “Tiki, I told the Sheriff about someone seeing Eva talking to a strange man outside of Sadie Ruth’s tavern. I just realized it was you who told me that.”

“I told him about that yesterday. But I didn‘t get a good luck at the man. In fact, I‘ve been trying to find other witnesses, but haven‘t had any luck. I have to confess, Vivian. I wonder if this just wasn‘t a random attack. One of opportunity.”

“I wish I could be of more help, Tiki.” I sighed.

“Get home. If we need you, someone will call.” Tiki stood at the door as I walked away. I tried not to think of his troubled face as I drove home.

Chapter 25

It was a few days before the coroner released Eva’s body for burial. The funeral arrangements were made quickly. Blueberry Ridge had a penchant for covering up anything that was ugly. Eva’s murder was that and more. People were afraid for the first time in fifty years. The sheriff was no closer to solving the murder almost a week later. The newspaper screamed for closure and only finding the murderer could do that.

I dressed for the funeral with a somber heaviness. Mother and Father waited for me in downstairs, as I dressed. I felt that if I delayed getting ready, it would delay the reality--the cold reality that Eva was really dead. When I came down the stairs, Father surprised me by taking my hand. He held it all the way to the car. This comforted me more than anything he could have said. And all through the funeral service, he held it.

Eva was an only child. Her mother was the only family she had. The emptiness of the family section was a pitiful sight. The casket was closed and covered with pink carnations. The towns people had sent a massive collection of flowers, expressing sorrow. They covered the front of the church. The various sizes and colors were something to focus on instead of the casket. I listened without hearing as the minister droned on about life and death of the young, how it was cruel to end so suddenly and violently.

I stared straight ahead, fighting tears because I knew if they started that I wouldn’t be able to stop them. My sorrows ran deep. Not only losing a friend, but also losing a boyfriend. That very day I had gotten a letter from the elder Mr. Bow-Ridge, saying that Javelin was improving and that he wouldn’t be returning to Blueberry Ridge any time in the future. He included no phone number or address in his letter, which reeked of a coldness that bewildered me.

Once the funeral was over, everyone went to the cemetery located beside the church. The finality of Eva’s death came to me as I watched the casket laid down in the ground. I broke down, crying hard against my father’s shoulder. Eva was gone and I hated how our friendship had been cast aside due to pettiness over boys.

Once the tears ebbed away, I saw Trent standing in front of me. He said, “Vivian can we talk?” I nodded and held out my arms. He hugged me tightly. We stayed that way for a while, neither moving. I felt someone squeeze my shoulder from behind. It was Paul. I pulled him close with a free arm. Soon we were joined by Mavis and Jerome. All of us hugged each other, crying. There wasn’t anything we could say that would alleviate our pain. This day was the day to let our grief out, to forget about being strong in the face of the public eye.

As the graveyard workers began to put the dirt on Eva’s casket, Mother came over to tell me we needed to leave. I hugged everyone. Mavis said she would call later. Trent said he would, too. Father took my hand once again and we headed home. Once there I went upstairs to rest, feeling the full weight of mental drain on my shoulders.

Hours later I woke up to Mother’s voice. It was a murmur but I could hear most of what she said. The conversation was one-sided, meaning that she was talking to one of her friends on the phone. I knew it was wrong to eavesdrop but I couldn’t resist it once I heard her drop my name in the conversation.

“I don’t know what Vivian Carol will do now that the Bow-Ridge boy is gone. From what I’ve heard, he’s not coming back. She is smitten with him. Thank Heavens it’s not fatal. I’m hoping this whole experience will make Vivian grow up and take stock of her future.”

There was a pause, as Mother listened to the person on the other line. She replied, “Earl told me not to pressure Vivian into resuming her relationship with Trent Sawyer. He says I should leave things alone. Well, that’s fine by me. You should have seen how Mrs. Sawyer snubbed me at Mr. Bow-Ridge’s dinner party. Her nose was up so high, she could have drowned in a rain storm. And look at the mess her son’s in now; dating that little tramp who goes and gets herself killed. Tsk!”

My mother’s conversation made me angry. She didn’t know Eva well enough to judge her. Even if Eva was a ‘little tramp’ that didn’t mean she got herself killed, as Mother put it. I was relieved when she her phone conversation ended. Deciding I needed an escape, I called Mavis to see if she wanted to go somewhere. But she wasn’t home. On impulse I called Paul Florence. I was curious about his take on the murder, wondering if he had overheard his father talking, but mainly I wanted to find out what happened to Javelin. Paul and Trent were the ones to find him.
Kayla answered the phone. “Florence residence.”

“Hi Kayla. It’s Vivian. Is Paul home?” I asked.

“Hi Vivvie,’ she said in a voice devoid of emotion. “Paul’s in his room with Trent. Hang on. I’ll go get him.”

I hadn’t thought about the possibility that Trent might be there, too. I felt a little uncomfortable thinking about him because our relationship was now undefined.

“Hey Vivian,” Paul said, “Trent and I were just discussing you. Is your nose itching?”

I smiled, “It is now. Were you saying something nice?”

“We were wondering if you felt like meeting us at the Soda Shop for some ice cream or something like that. We’re tired of being cooped up.”

I said, “Me too. Why don’t I meet you there in thirty minutes?”

“Sounds great to me,” Paul said. “See you there, Viv.”

Chapter 23

The emergency room was full of curious people, wanting to hear any bit of news that could about Javelin or Eva. I ran to the desk and told the attending nurse that I was Javelin’s girlfriend, but she wouldn’t let me see him, because I wasn’t a close relative. I sat in the waiting room, biting my nails so that I wouldn’t scream at the nurses. I understood policy, but it was hard to be patient when a person you loved was behind the curtains suffering.

Jenny, a girl from my school who was a year younger than me, was walking through the lobby and saw me. She was wearing a candy stripers outfit. “Hi Vivian. Are you hurt?” she asked. I told her my situation. She said, “I’ll be back.”

She returned with a grim expression. “It’s not good, Vivian. He’s been struck on the head with something. His skull is crushed. But his vitals are strong. His father is making arrangements to have him air lifted to a hospital in DC. That’s all I can tell you, Vivian.” She gave me a brief hug before getting back to her duties.

I felt cold inside. My mouth was dry, so I went to the water fountain. There in the hallway stood Mr. Bow-Ridge Junior. His expression of distain gave me a shiver. “You don’t need to be here, girl. My son’s going to get the best medical service available in DC. Run along back to life before he arrived. There’s no place for you in his life now.”

“Can’t I see him?” I begged. “Just for a moment.”

“No,” his cold voice robbed me of sunshine and hope. “He’s in a coma and he won’t know you‘re there. The hospital stuff has too much to do to get him ready for the journey. Now go, girl. My son won‘t be returning to Blueberry Ridge any time soon. Go back to the life you had before you met him.” He walked away without a glance back. I knew I wouldn’t win this battle much less the war. I wasn’t armed and didn’t have strategic intellect that could defeat this man.
With a weary heart, I left the emergency room and drove straight to the Bow-Ridge mansion.

One of the maids announced me. Mr. Bow-Ridge was sitting in front of Javelin’s portrait with tears in his eyes. “Mr. Bow-Ridge,” I said, “it will be okay.” I comforted myself as much as I did him. “Little James will be okay. He’s strong and too stubborn to be any other way.”

“My dear girl,” he said, taking my hand. “You’ve heard the news. Someone attacked him while he was fishing. The sheriff thinks the motivation was robbery. There was a girl killed. I don’t know the details. My son is having Little James moved to a more modern hospital in Washington, DC.”

“Yes, I saw him at the hospital. I thought you could use some company.” I couldn’t understand why Javelin’s father was so hard, while his grandfather was so kind. I stayed for as long as he allowed me. After three hours of no news, he sent me home and promised to call if there was any news on Javelin’s status.

When I arrived home, Mother greeted me with a hug. “We’ve heard the news. I’m sorry, dear. Have you eaten anything today?” She asked. Mother’s arms were warm and I broke down into tears for the first time that day. She let me cry longer than I expected. When I wiped my tears away, she suggested I go upstairs to my room and she would bring a tray up to me.

But she didn’t. Father did. He sat beside me as I nibbled at my food. “I called Tiki, as soon as we heard about your beau and your friend, Eva. Tiki couldn’t tell me much, only that someone had beaten the girl to death and had struck Javelin in the head. The sheriff thinks the motivation was robbery. That the only reason your beau lived is because some of his friends, Paul and Trent interrupted the attacker. They saw some guy running away but couldn’t get a good look at him.”

“He’s being airlifted to DC.” I said, “I hope he’ll be okay, Father. He has to be.” The crying returned. “How could things have gone so wrong, Father? Eva’s dead and Javelin is hurt. He’s been sent to Washington, DC. His father hates me. And Eva...Eva’s dead.“ He patted my arm for a while, until he could no longer bear my tears. With a kiss on my forehead, he left me alone, to cry myself to sleep.

I woke up hours later from a nightmare, where Javelin was bleeding and I couldn’t stop the flow. Sweat covered my body, so I got up and went downstairs to get a glass of water. On the fridge was a note written in Mother’s flowery handwriting that read, “Little James survived surgery and is in recovery. Mr. Bow-Ridge will call tomorrow with more news.” There were other phone messages from Mavis, Trent and Paul. I would deal with them tomorrow.

My nightmare was true. Javelin had been hurt. And Eva was dead. I drank some water, but it didn‘t quell the sweat that covered my body. I went outside and sat on the steps to the back air, letting the cool night air whisk away the sweat and fright. Night creatures continued to make their music, not realizing the tragedy that earlier had struck daylight. My mind went into rewind over the day, trying to make sense of it all.

Because I was so intent on my thoughts, I didn’t notice the change in the air at first. There was a silence so great that it froze the night creatures into silence. The hairs on my arms stood up and I knew I needed to get inside, because there was something or someone in the woods, watching me. As I stood up, I heard a crashing sound in the shadows of the woods. It sounded like someone or something had stumbled over something in the dark, causing them to fall in the bushes. I stared into the heavy brush, trying to see if it was a bear or another animal. “Who’s there?” I called, trying to pinpoint where the noise was coming from.

Whatever it was stopped all movement, as if it didn’t want to give away its location. I wasn’t brave enough to challenge it. So I ran inside and locked myself in, praying that my imagination was at work, but knowing it wasn’t. Whoever the guy was who hurt Javelin and killed Eva was still out there. I needed to remember that. No one was safe until he was caught.

Up the stairs I ran. My parents slept soundly. I stood at their door wondering if I should wake them. As distraught as I had been earlier, they might think I had imagined the noise or was paranoid because of what happened to Eva and Javelin. I went to my room, climbed in the bed and tried to go back to sleep but my mind refused to let me.

There was a phone on a small table in the hallway. When I turned 15, I begged my parents to put in a private phone line for myself. Mavis had one and as long as she talked softly and didn’t disturb anyone, her parents didn’t mind if she had calls at anytime. But my parents didn’t think it would be wise. Mother told me, “You’ll be on the phone when you should be working on homework.” She was probably right. The temptation to find other tasks to do than homework was a vice of mine. Since I didn’t have a phone, I used the one in the hallway. It had an extra long cord on it ( Father’s idea) and I could put it in my room when I didn’t have homework to do and talk away. Mother didn’t mind, as long as my chores were caught up.

I had to talk to someone and the only person I knew who had their own phone was Mavis. It was after 2 a.m. Under normal circumstances, I wouldn’t have called but these were far from normal. I got the phone out of the hall and crawled under the covers with it. I very carefully dialed Mavis, praying the covers would muffle my voice.

She answered on the first ring. “Vivian?” Her voice was alert and full of concern.

“How did you know it was me?” I asked, surprised that she was still awake.

Mavis said, “I just knew. Girl, what took you so long to return my call? I’ve been worried sick.”
“It’s been a horrible day. Mavis, what happened? Does anyone know?” I asked.

“I’ll tell you what I’ve heard, but I don’t know how much truth there is to it. Trent and Paul went to the lake to see if Javelin had caught any fish. They saw a guy with a club or big stick in his hand striking something on the ground. When he saw them, he ran off. So they ran over to see what he was hitting and found Javelin. They saw how badly he was hurt, so one of them--I don’t know which--decided to run of help and that’s when he found Eva, under that big magnolia tree. She was dead. Someone had beaten her to death. The police assumes it was the same person. If Trent and Paul hadn‘t of shown up when they did, Javelin would probably have been beating to a pulp, like Eva.”

“Why would someone beat them? I can’t think of any crimes like this happening ever,” I said.
“None have happened. Not since that girl was killed 50 or so years ago. The founding four families had something to do with that. So it was covered up. Vivian, do you think this has something to do with the curse?” Mavis’s question gave me a shiver, because I was thinking the same thing.

“Even if it isn’t, half the people in town will say it is.” I said.

“The weird thing is this...there was more blood on the ground from Javelin’s wounds than there were from Eva’s. According to what I’ve heard, the whole lake side should have been covered with her blood. But there was little around her.”

“Mavis, people sometimes fill in the blanks when they don’t know the whole story. We’re going to have to wait and see what the Sheriff finds. Have you talked to Trent or Paul?”

“No. Jerome tried them, but was informed that neither could take calls.” Mavis cried out, “Oh my God, Dirk! He’s probably taking this hard. He loved Eva. How will he survive without her?”
I sighed. “Like everyone else. The best he can.”

Chapter 22

No one spoke until Trent said, “Speaking of Mavis, have you seen her afro, Vivvie? She’s dyed parts of it pink. Told me and Paul it was the color of her aura.”

Kayla said, “She told me she thought my aura was orange and suggested I start wearing the color.”

Eva said, “Don’t. You’ll look like a pumpkin. Round and plain.”

I gasped at her cruelty. Kayla ran into the house, tears streaming down her face. The guys turned on Eva. Trent’s face was twisted in fury. Paul said, “I can guess the color of your aura, Eva. It’s red. Isn’t red the color whores wear?”

One of the servants interrupted us. “Sorry to interrupt, Master Bow-Ridge but the party’s breaking up and your friends’ parents are asking for them.

“Thanks, Melvin,” said Javelin. He waited until Melvin was a few feet away, then said, “Eva, you’re never invited back to this house again. Regardless of whose guest you are. I’ll make sure you’re turned away and I don’t care if it embarrasses them. Do you guys hear me?” He looked at Dirk, Paul and Trent. Freddy had left behind Kayla. “None of you can ever bring this bitch to my house again. Ever. Now leave or I‘ll have Melvin and a few of the other male servants to toss you down the freaking path.”

Eva didn’t say a word. She took Dirk’s arm and pulled him into the woods. I could hear her berating him for not defending her honor. Sadly I said, “What happened to her? She used to be our friend.”

Paul said, “I don’t know, Vivian. She’s out for revenge on us for some reason. Trent’s put up with her longer than I would have.”

Trent shook his head, “I feel sorry for her. She’s the daughter of a maid and thinks she’ll end up one. Eva’s just trying to find her place in this world.”

“She could go about it in a nicer way.” I said. With that, we went inside to find our parents. Javelin went with me to say good night to his Grandfather, who whispered in my ear, “You come back soon.” I kissed his forehead.

Javelin also escorted Mother and I to our car. Father followed behind, laughing at Javelin’s compliments to us women. He said, “Young man, you should write a book for us bumbling men and title it “1001 Ways to Charm a Lady.”

In my ear, Javelin whispered, “I’ll call you tomorrow afternoon.” We kissed and as I was about to climb into the car, he said, “Blueberry Girl!” I turned and he mouthed, “I love you.” I blew him a kiss and mouthed it back.

On the drive home, I hummed. Mother said, “Now that’s a dinner party.” She was happy and I was glowing. It was the perfect way to end a dinner party.

The morning after the party, Mother and I worked on making more jam and preserves. We passed the time gossiping about fashion and trying to figure out some of the recipes. She told me how charming Sheriff Florence and Javelin’s father were and how they fought over who would fetch her drinks. She told me she felt like a princess for the first time in her life and found she liked it. I felt a bit sorry for father. He was more of a frog than a prince and Mother would have to learn to accept it.

As I worked I thought about Eva and how hateful she acted at the party. She and I had never been as close as Mavis and I were. But I considered her a close friend. Her attitude changed towards me after she saw the painting I did of Javelin. On the social status scale, my family wasn’t much higher than the family of a maid. My mother might be a social climber, but I wasn’t. It didn’t bother me if Trent didn’t invite me to parties that his family were obliged to attend. I wasn’t worried about my place in the world. Somehow I would figure it out as I went through life. I had to agree with Trent, that Eva was just trying to fix her spot in town and she wouldn’t let it be as a maid.

A thought occurred to me, Eva enjoyed painting but couldn’t afford private lessons. I could offer to help her or tutor her this coming school year. Maybe with some lessons, she would improve enough to get an art grant or scholarship. I thought I would run my idea by Mr. Watts and get his input before approaching Eva. I wanted her to be happy, so that all of us could be as carefree as we were before all this happened.

I didn’t take a lunch break, figuring that Javelin would call and we could slip away to the soda shop or the pizza pallor for a late lunch. After I finished my last batch of preserves, I ran upstairs and changed clothes. The phone rang and I yelled that I would get it. Using my sexy voice, I said, “Hello.”

“Vivian, I’ve got some bad news.” It was Mavis. Her voice was full of grief. “It’s Eva. She’s been murdered at the lake and Javelin was attacked, too. He’s at the hospital. It doesn’t look good.”

“How do you know? When did this happen?” I couldn’t believe her. This had to be a bad joke.

“Jerome and I went to the lake to have a picnic. Deputies were all over the place and wouldn’t let us get close. I saw Tiki Smith and he told us that Eva was dead, that it looked like a murder. And that Javelin was hurt. The ambulance was leaving as we left. They’ve rushed him to the hospital.’

“I’ve got to go, Mavis.” I hung up the phone and ran into the kitchen where Mother and Father were talking. “There’s been an accident. Javelin’s hurt. I need to get to the hospital. I’ll call.” I grabbed the keys to the beat-around car that Father let me drove on occasion. I didn’t wait to hear what they said. My mind was on Javelin. I couldn’t think about Eva. It was too horrific to imagine her dead, especially murdered!

Chapter 21

I did my best not to show that I was upset, but Trent knew immediately. “Vivian, what’s wrong?” he asked. I shook my head. I didn’t dare talk about it.

Javelin grasped my hand so hard that it hurt. “Don’t worry about it, Sawyer. She’s not your girl anymore.”

“I still care for her, Bow-Ridge. You better not hurt her or I’ll..” he let his sentence dangle in the air.

“Man, I’m shaking in my boots.” Javelin was angry with his father but it was Trent he planned to take it out on.

“Stop,” I cried. “This isn’t about either of you. I can’t stand it if there’s fighting.”

Kayla came over and took my arm. “Let’s go to the powder room.” To the angry boys she said, “People are looking, guys.”

We weaved through the crowd of people. I saw Mother staring at me with a thoughtful look. I wondered if she noticed the tension between the guys and if she saw my stricken face before I got it under control. In the bathroom, I composed myself with deep breaths, listening to Kayla chatter.

“You know, Vivvie. Things were much easier before Little James came to town. You and Trent were happy. Freddy and I were happy. Paul was happy that all of us were happy. Eva wasn’t around, bossing me and Freddy, trying to talk Trent into getting engaged. She stayed with her kind, didn’t mingle with us much. We all were happy. If I close my eyes, I can still picture the future. You and Trent married. Freddy and I married and Paul, watching over us all. A perfect life.” Kayla’s voice had a dreamy sound. I sighed.

“Kayla, I’m finding out that nothing in life is perfect...not even love.” I ignored her hurt expression. “We should get back to the party,” I said.

Kayla said, “Life is perfect if you believe it is. That’s what my mother told me once.”

I didn’t reply, as I walked out of the bathroom. There was a calmness inside me. I don’t know where it came from, but I knew that if I was going to keep it, I would need Mr. Bow-Ridge’s grandfatherly presence to cultivate it. With grace, I turned my back on my peers and my boyfriend to seek the comforting smile of Mr. Bow-Ridge. By his side is where I stayed through dinner.

Dinner was delicious. Every one loved the food. I let the laugher and smiles of good conversation and drink drone out the words in my head, the ones Javelin’s father had said to me in the sitting room. I hadn’t thought past the summer. Marriage was far from my mind. I knew that once school started I would begin anew the battle with Mother about going away to college, mainly to an art school. The stress of being a senior would override any girlish fantasies I had about a boy. Javelin would go back to Miami. I’ve always know this. I figured we would deal with it the best we could and if things worked out, and we could be together that would be wonderful. If not, life goes on.

After dinner, Javelin told his grandfather, “I’m stealing my girl back. You’ve had her sweet company enough for one evening.” We walked outside to the pool. Trent and the others were there, listening to music. He said, “Sorry Vivian. I didn’t mean to get you upset.”

“It’s over. Let’s have fun.” I held out my hand to Javelin and said, “Shall we dance?’ He took my hand and we danced. I was happy to see the others taking turns dancing with Kayla. Her face shown like a star, twinkling in the dark.

After a few songs, Trent asked Javelin if he could dance with me. I was surprised to see Javelin give consent with a carefree smile. It was a semi-slow song, so Trent took my hands and we danced close together. “Vivvie,” he said, “you look lovely tonight. I sure screwed up. I pushed you right into Little James’ arms with my accusations.”

“Let’s not talk about this. It was a little of us both, making the decision to part. It’s for the best. I believe it would have happened eventually.” Dancing with Trent made me sad. I wanted to be elsewhere. With a silence cry of joy, I felt a tap on my shoulder. It was Paul, breaking in.
We danced a while, laughing at each other’s goofy dance steps. Paul could do the monkey better than a monkey could. After everyone got tired of dancing, we sat around the bar talking.
Trent sat beside me, while Javelin played host by mixing up strange concoctions from the soda fountain that was conveniently installed at the bar. Trent took my hand and said, “Vivvie, I want to apologize for being an ass. You’re my friend and if that’s all I can have, I’d rather have that instead of nothing at all.”

“Trent, I don’t know what our future holds. All I hope for is that we do have one.” It occurred to me that I was probably speaking vaguely, but it was all I could offer him.

Javelin’s sharp eyes didn’t miss the exchange. He hurried over to claim a spot beside me. But before he could say anything, Trent asked, “Have you had any luck fishing in the lake this summer?”

Javelin said, “Uh?” Trent’s question was a curve ball.

“At the lake, fish. Have you caught any.” Trent spoke as if Javelin didn’t understand English.

“No, but I’m gonna give the fish another chance to nibble on my hook tomorrow after lunch. This time, they’re going down.”

Trent asked, “Hey, Little James, did you know Vivvie believes in sea monsters?”

I laughed, “Now Trent, don’t go there. I was eight or nine when I believed in monsters.”
Javelin said, “Are you afraid of water, baby?”

“Yes, but I know sea monsters don’t live in them. Trent’s talking about a trip to the beach our third grade class took. I wouldn’t go into the water because I thought they would eat me.”

“It’s a good thing you didn’t,” said Javelin, “or you might have been kidnapped by mermaids.”
Trent laughed, “I can see her on a rock, playing a harp and lurking ships to their doom.”

Kayla said, “Those are sirens. And they look like birds. Not girls.”

Paul said, “Are there male sirens?”

“Yeah,” said Freddy, “They’re called the police.”

Our laughter was interrupted by a snide voice. “My, isn’t this cozy. Queen Vivian holding court.”
We turned as one towards the voice. Eva and Dirk were emerging from one of the trails leading into the woods. It occurred to me that every house had at least one or two trails leading from them into the woods. “Dirk told me about your party, Little James,” she said. “Trent told me he had church tonight. Is this a holy party or a holier-than-thou party?”

“Eva,” Trent said, “my parents wouldn’t let me invite you. I didn’t want to hurt your feelings. I should have known Mr. Jealousy would have ran to you. Happy now, Dirk. You’ve created a scene that needn’t have happened.”

“Trent, you didn’t have to lie to me. I’m a big girl and can handle the truth,” said Eva. “Dirk’s would never lie, would you?” She smiled at him and he melted at her feet. “Never,” he said.
“If it’s any consolation, Eva, Trent wouldn’t have taken me either, if we were still dating.” I said. She turned on me, claws extended.

“No but Javelin did. He’s a rebel and doesn’t care about social standings.” Eva made all of us uncomfortable. “You’re loving this, Vivian. If Mavis and Jerome were here, your court would be complete. All your subjects fighting to make Queen Vivian smile.”

“That’s enough, Eva.” Javelin said, “This is my home and you’re an uninvited quest. I suggest you go back down the trail you came.”

She tossed her blonde hair, putting her arm through Dirk’s. “Wasn’t Dirk invited? Isn’t his mother here? I’m his guest. I don’t have to leave.”

Dirk’s chest puffed out. “That’s right. She’s my guest and can stay.” They stood by the bar, while all of us looked at each other.

Chapter 20

My family and I arrived at the Bow-Ridge residence early the next evening. We were shocked to see a bunch of vehicles parked in various places around the estate. A valet directed Father to a spot near the gate to the pool.

Mother asked, “Is there a party going on tonight, dear?”

“I don’t know, Mother. Javelin didn’t tell me about a party. He just said to be here for dinner,” I said.

“Let’s go find out,” said Father.

Mother and I were dressed in similar colors, pale blues. It was her idea. I believe she wanted me to resemble her and because we both looked good in blue, she thought that wearing the color would make us look related. It did but also it didn’t. The pale blue I wore brought out the bluish tint in my hair, while the pale blue she wore made her brown hair stand out even more than usual. Father had on his one somber black suit and looked very uncomfortable in it.

Javelin greeted us in the hallway. “Sorry about all the people. My dad arrived today and Grandfather decided to have a dinner party and invited some of the other families. Hope that’s ok.” We all said it was and went to mingle with the guests.

Trent and Paul stood in a corner, wearing suits and looking uncomfortable. Kayla and Eddie sat on a love seat close to them. They looked unhappy too. I went over, while Javelin took Mother and Father and introduced them to some of the guests that he particularly liked.

Kayla cried out with joy, “Vivian! You’re here. Thank God.” She hugged me so tightly my eyes watered. I said, “Kayla, you look beautiful. Have you slimmed up some this summer? I’ve never seen you look so lovely.” Freddy gave me a glance that spoke his gratitude, because of taking off pounds, she had added some. No doubt due to the stress of having Eva’s slim form around.
I hugged Freddy and Paul. Trent looked uncertain until I held out my arms. When we embraced, he held me tightly, breathing in my fragrance. He whispered, “I’ve missed you.”

“So have I,” I whispered back. It wasn’t a lie. I missed my friend. We had been best friends since we were nine-years-old and I missed him.

We stood chatting for a while. It was like old times. Javelin came over when he was done doing his duties. He put a possessive arm around my waist. I prayed there would be no trouble between him and Trent. Kayla looked upset. Freddy looked apprehensive and Paul stood poised for any signs of confrontation. I was pleased to see Javelin extend his hand to Trent. “Truce?” he asked.

Trent took the offered hand. “Truce.”

The elder Bow-Ridge sent for me. I looked at Javelin. He said, “Don’t freak out. Grandfather wants to show off your art work. By the way, he loves those sketches of me you sent to him. It‘s all he‘s talked about today.” I hesitated. “Go on, baby. We’ll behave,” said Javelin.

Trent nodded, “Go on Vivvie. I promise there won’t be any trouble.”

I found Mr. Bow-Ridge talking to several men. I recognized Trent’s father, Mr. Sawyer. His expensive cut suit minimized his protruding belly. Sheriff Florence stood tall in his uniform. The other man was unfamiliar, yet at the same time familiar to me. Studying him, I realized he was Javelin’s father.

Mr. Bow-Ridge said, “Gentlemen, this young lady is the most talented artist ever to live in this town. Vivian Wilde, say hello to my son James Junior.”

Bow-Ridge Junior said, “So you’re the one who’s stolen my son’s heart and captured it on canvas.” He took my hand and kissed it. “Charmed,” he said.

I blushed and curtsied. “Pleased to meet you, sir.”

The other men studied me. Mr. Sawyer didn’t look to pleased to see me. Sheriff Florence nodded at me and then dismissed me with a change of conversation. I made to leave but Mr. Bow-Ridge took my arm. He whispered, “Will you keep an old man company for a while?."

“Of course.” I guided him to a vacant sofa and we sat together, discussing the sketches. His son came over after a while and said, “You two look as thick as thieves. Pardon the cliché.”

“Vivian is my favorite girl. Your son should be honored to have such a brilliant girl interested in him.” Mr. Bow-Ridge’s comment made me blush. I wasn’t comfortable with his son. I didn’t like how he looked beyond the outer image of me and into the barely middle-class girl I was.

“Can I borrow her for a moment, Father? I want to discuss the painting of Little James with her.” Bow-Ridge Junior took my arm and escorted me into the sitting room where Javelin’s painting resided. We stood for a while, staring at it.

He said, “You captured his likeness better than a camera could.”

“Thank you, sir. He’s an easy subject to paint.”

“I think it’s best if I get to the point. If you think you’re going to marry into our money, I mean our family, you’re mistaken. I’ve got big plans of James III. And you aren’t included.”
My face burned red. I said, “I haven’t thought of marriage. I’m just seventeen and plan to go to college, sir. Marriage isn’t on my agenda.”

“I don’t meant to embarrass you. As rich as my family is, I have to weed out any undesirable sprout as it pops up. It’s oblivious my son is smitten with you. I just wanted to make myself clear on a few things. Once summer is over, he’s going back to Miami. You’re staying here and going back to the life you had before he arrived. The Sawyer family will be happy to have you as a daughter-in-law. You will be a trophy that Sawyer will try to throw in my face. He always wants what my family has.”

My mouth opened but no words could escape. He insulted me like I had never experienced. I wanted to run away and hide, cry in the darkness with shame. No one has ever made me feel as minuscule as this man did.

Javelin said from the doorway, “Dad, I think you’ve said enough. Vivian is my girlfriend and I insist you show her some respect.” He strode into the room, taking my arm. “Come along, Vivian. Your mother is looking for you.”

Letting Javelin drag me out of the room, I looked over my shoulder at Bow-Ridge Junior. His expression said more than his friendly warning--that he despised the fact I was Javelin’s love.

Chapter 19

Javelin and I met at the lake. The night air was cool for late June and it had a faint blueberry smell to it. We sat by the lake on one of the logs that Kayla and I sat when she and I had our last chat. I knew I should call her and see how she’s coping with Eva, but all my time was devoured by Javelin.

We hadn’t had sex yet, but there were a few close calls, where one or the other would come to our senses and stop. We would sit a few feet apart, looking at each other and laughing at how disheveled our appearances were. But of us knowing the danger of unprotected sex, and happy that our lust hadn’t driven us to forget it.

Tonight was no different. I was the one to breakaway from his deep kisses when he had my bra unhooked and my skirt up to my waist, his fingers working magic. “We’ve got to stop for a while,” I said.

“Why? You want me as much as I want you, V.” His voice held a touch of tortured anguish.
“Javelin, we don’t have protection. I could get pregnant and ...I’m not ready.” I said, putting my appearance back in order.

“When will you be ready? Hell, how am I going to know? I thought you were ready a few minutes ago.” He reached in his jeans for some gum. When I said I hated his cigarettes, he switched to gum. Mavis told me that was a sign of true love. I have to agree.

Before I could reply, he said, “This has to do with Eva and me. I keep waiting for you to ask questions and you haven’t.”

There were questions I wanted to ask, but when I was with him I forgot them. They weren’t nagging questions. I have my past with Trent and Javelin has his past with Eva and others. None of it mattered when we were together.

“I’ve always felt that if you wanted to talk about her, you would.” I wasn’t sure if I really wanted to know.

“Okay, this one time and then it’s done.” He stared at the moon’s distorted reflection in the lake. “My mother died when I was fourteen. Dad and I took it pretty hard. She was our mediator, kept us from ripping each other up. I love my Dad and I’m proud of what he’s done for our country, but I don’t like my Dad. He’s hard. Thinks I should think like he does.”

“How did your mother die?” I asked, instinctively sliding close to him and rubbing his back as he talked.

“Complications from a gall bladder operation. It was sudden. We weren’t prepared for her death.” I kissed his cheek. Then he continued, “I fell in with a gang of boys. We called ourselves the South Miami Cocks and we terrorized the neighborhood. After a big fight with another gang, I got hurt badly.” He stood up and pulled down his jeans to show me a jagged scar running down his hip. “Spent a few days in the hospital. Dad thought that I should get away from Miami for a while. So he sent me here, to stay with Grandfather all summer. That’s how I met Eva."

“I’m amazed that you and I never met each other. But Mother usually keeps me busy with blueberries. I guess that’s why I never saw you around when you were here.”

“Could be. But you were Trent’s girl. I bet he made sure you didn’t met me. He probably thought I would try to steal you away.” Javelin grinned at me and I laughed. “Think that could have happened?”

“V., ever since I talked to Eva that day, you know what I’m talking about because you were hiding in the magnolia tree.’ I blushed and said “Yes.”

He continued, “I’ve been thinking about that summer. Grandfather was in better health then. He spent a lot of time doing things away from the house. None of the guys in town would have much to do with me. Trent had then all on a tight leash. I spent a lot of my time by the pool or in my room reading, when I wasn’t sitting around missing my Mom. You would have loved her, she was sweet and gentle. Just like you.”

For a while, he didn’t speak. I knew he was thinking about his Mother. I sat quietly, waiting. “Eva’s mom was one of the maids. She brought Eva with her on certain days. I remember being in my room and Eva came in with a feather duster. It was yellow. Strange, the things you can remember. She sat on the bed and we talked for a long time about music, movies; hell you name it, we discussed it.” He turned to face me, as he continued. “Now you’re beautiful. In fact, you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met--inside and out. But Eva with her long legs and that blonde hair, she was the embodiment of sex appeal. I never made a move on her. She was the one to instigated the sex. Once I had a taste of it, it was all I wanted. One day, another maid walked in on us having sex. She told Grandfather and he fired Eva’s mother. Not long after that, I was sent back to Miami. I haven’t had sex with her since. That’s the truth.”

I said, “Thanks for telling me all this. But it doesn’t matter. I believe in now, not then.” He kissed me. “So, how will I know when you’re ready?”

“I’ll wear my hair down,” I said with a grin.

He laughed. “That’ll work.” Neither of us said anything for a while. We held each other, breathing in the blueberry fragrance of night. I thought of something Eva had said to him that day.

“Javelin, Eva said you weren’t her first. Remember?”

He said, “Yes, that’s prayed on my mind. She knew more than I did about sex but I passed that off as feminine intuition, whatever that is.”

“Have there been many women, Javelin?” I hadn’t meant to ask that question. It came out on its own.

“I won’t lie. There’s been a few. But there isn’t now. I don’t want other women, Blueberry Girl. I want you.” His voice dropped to a whisper. “I love you,” he said. I almost didn’t hear it. My heart sang so loud I couldn’t hear the night creatures make their music.

“You do? I... I love you, too.” We kissed tenderly, as if afraid we would break our love with passion, because love is like that--fragile and delicate enough to break under the pressure of mad passion.

Chapter 18

Life was grand until I ran into Freddy, Trent’s younger brother outside the grocery store. I was picking up some supplies to make a cake. Mom wanted to impress Mr. Bow-Ridge by baking a blueberry cake using a secret family recipe. Freddy was walking along the sidewalk with his hands in his pocket. His usual chipper attitude was replaced with a somber shimmer.

“Hi Freddy,” I said. The last time I had seen him was during the week of exams.

“Vivvie, I’m happy to see you. Can we talk for a few minutes?” He asked.

“As long as the butter doesn’t melt, I’ve got time.” I said. We sat on a bench outside the barber shop. I hoped I wouldn’t be put through a series of twenty questions regarding Trent.

“I wish things were back like they used to be. It feels weird not having you around. Even Kayla is depressed. She hates Eva. I do too. That girl’s a bitch and can be cruel. She tells Kayla she’s fat. I don’t think so, do you?” Freddy looked so unhappy. I hadn’t thought of how breaking up with Trent would affect others.

“Kayla’s not fat. Make sure you tell her every chance you get that she’s beautiful. Eva will get tired of Trent eventually. I don’t think your parents will let it get so far anyway. I can’t see the daughter of a maid marrying their son.”

“Will you please take Trent back? I think he would go for it. I heard him tell Paul that he misses you and wishes he had treated you more like a girlfriend instead of a prize.”

“I...I..don’t think I will, Freddy.” A lost of how to describe my feelings caused me to stutter a bit. “It’s difficult to tell you this but, I think I love Javelin. It’s not that I don’t care about Trent. He was my first love, but this is different. It’s hard to describe.”

“Little James? Trent said you were a fool to be involved with him. Kayla thinks so too, and so does a lot of other people. Vivvie, if you don’t watch out, you’ll get hurt. That guy is trouble. I can’t help but think that something is going to happen before he leaves town. It always does, when he’s around longer than a weekend.”

“Don’t be silly. You guys have made Little James into something he’s not--a monster. All of you should give him a chance. I’ve got to go. The butter is going to melt. Say hi to Kayla.” I walked away. I had too many things to do besides listen to negative talk.

It was Saturday, the day before dinner with my family and Javelin’s. Mother worked on her cake with great care. I left the kitchen so that she could concentrate on the task. Dad was in his workshop talking to one of his best workers, Tiki Smith. Tiki was a few years older than me. His mother was the daughter of Sadie Ruth, who owned the local tavern. Tiki’s mother was a wild one during her youth. She ran off with a traveling salesman and was gone for a year. When she came back, she had a new baby boy that she named Tiki. The traveling salesman was long gone and Tiki’s mom didn’t know where he was. Tiki was the only souvenir she brought back from her travels. To this day, no one knows why she named him Tiki.

“Hey Viv,” Tiki said when he saw me. “Guess what? I’m going to be a deputy. I came by to tell your day, I won’t be working full time anymore.’

“That’s wonderful, Tiki.” I said, giving him a hug.

Father said, “Tiki, don’t forget where you came from. Welding is a part of you.” They shook hands. Tiki said, “I won’t. You’ll see me when I’ve got time off. I still plan on working part-time if you’ll let me.”

“Son, you’ll always have a job as long as I’m alive. Well, I need to get back to work, if I want to finish before supper. Take care, Tike.” Father went back to working.

“Your dad’s like a father to me, Vivian. I appreciate all he’s done for me over the years.” Tiki said, watching Father walk away.

“When did you decide to join the sheriff’s department?” I asked. Tiki motioned me over to his truck. He lowered the tailgate and we sat there, catching up on with each other.

“A few of the old guys want to retire and there was an opening. Sheriff Florence thought I would be a great choice for the job. So here I am. Had to take a few courses at the Technical college but I passed easily. So there’s no worries.” He grinned and added, “Better watch yourself, you wild woman. There’s a new deputy in town.”

I laughed, “Like I get in trouble now.”

“I’ve heard the gossip around town. How that mean ole Vivian Wilde broke little rich boy Trent Sawyer’s heart and is going to run off with that wild Bow-Ridge boy!”

Somberly, I said, “Part of the gossip is true. I think I did break Trent’s heart. He’s with Eva now. She’s consoling him.”

“Eva’s bad news. She’s too aware of her feminine wiles and uses them for the wrong purposes. I was over at Granny’s the other night and saw Eva talking to a man the other night outside the tavern. Don’t know who the man was. Granny says she knows but couldn’t tell, and I know for a fact it wasn’t Trent or any of the other guys around town, because this guy was tall.”
“Eva surprises me with the way she’s been acting. I thought I knew her but I don’t. She wasn’t like this until Javelin appeared.”

“Javelin? Oh you mean Little James. Can’t get used to that nickname. Is the gossip true? Have you fallen for this guy, Viv?” Tiki asked. He leaned forward until his forehead almost touched my temple.

“Silly. Don’t tell anyone but I think so. He’s fun and I believe he genuinely likes me. And for the record, Deputy Smith, we’re not going to run off together.”

He said in a semi-serious voice, “Maybe you should. There’s a curse hanging over his head. Maybe you should run away from all the guys around here.”

“Everyone’s obsessed with this curse. Jeepers, Tiki, I’m tired of the warnings.” I was getting a bit irritated with him. He was just like all the dull people in this town, stuck in superstition land.
Knowing he had stepped on my toes, Tiki winked at me and said, “You could run off with me, if you like the older brother sort of guy.”

We laughed. Tiki was the average sort of guy. Nothing really stood out about him, except his personality and I knew he would settle for a Susie Homemaker sort of girl before trying to tame the freedom loving artist inside me.

He left a while later and I went inside to check on Mother and her cake. She was taking it out of the oven with great care so that the center didn’t cave in. I held my breath until it was safely on the kitchen counter. She proclaimed, “There, it’s perfect.”

From the doorway, Father said, “Sure smells like it. Is it for me?” He was teasing her.

Mother said, “No but if you’re a good boy, you can nibble on the cook later.” I smiled at both of them, because they never acted so carefree.

The urge to sketch drove me upstairs. I flipped through my sketch pads to find one that had a blank page. There were few that did. I was amazed at how many sketches I had of Javelin. An idea came to me; I could give Mr. Bow-Ridge some of the sketches. I knew he would love to have them. He reaped much affection on Javelin and it was returned twice over.

The phone rang and I answered it, hoping it would be Javelin. “There’s a full moon tonight,” he said. “Can you come out?”

“I’ll ask.” I put the phone down and asked if I could go out for a while. Mother and Father answered “Yes” at the same time. I grabbed the phone and whispered, “Yes.”

“Blueberry Girl, I want to kiss you in the moonlight tonight. I know it’s straightforward and a bit bold, but I can‘t help it. I want to touch your hair under the full moon, surrounded by blueberries.”

My heart skipped a few beats. With a shaky breath, I said, “I want to see you, too.” My mind flashed to images from fantasies I had, about us making love amongst the blueberries. And in these fantasies, he and I are in perfect synch.

“Good, then I’ll be over at your house in about 20 minutes. Is that ok?” He asked, “Will that give you time to get ready?”

“Yes. It will. I’ll see you then.”

Chapter 17

One afternoon Javelin and I met Mavis and Jerome at the Pizza Pallor for root beer and pizza. I had a root beer fetish that was indescribable, if I didn’t quell it when the mood struck no one was safe from me. We were having a great time until Paul and Dirk showed up. I could feel the tension in the air before I even noticed their arrival.

“Hey guys,” Dirk said. “Mind if we join you?” Paul stood beside him, staring at me in a cold way that angered me. I was about to say no, when Mavis said, “Sure, if you behave.”

“We’re cool, Mavis.” said Paul. “Hey Jerome, Little James, Vivian.” He nodded at each of us.
Jerome said, “How’s it going? I called your house the other day, Paul and your dad said you were fishing. Catch anything?”

For a while the guys talked about fishing. I couldn’t help but feel sorry for Dirk. He sat with a long face, most likely due to Trent dating Eva. Dirk has been in love with Eva since grade school and it was a pity she threw him dog bones, instead of real affection. Tiring of the talk, Dirk went over to the video games at the back of the pizza pallor to play them for a while.

Paul turned to me and said, “Damn Vivvie, I’m stuck with Dirk all summer while Trent plays around with Eva. What the hell happened?”

Javelin started to answer for me, but I reached under the table and squeezed his arm, begging silence. I said, “Trent thought we needed to be a part for a while. He’s the one who broke up with me, Paul.”

Paul sighed, “That’s what he told me, too. Though Eva says a lot more, mainly about him.” He nodded at Javelin, who said, “Him has a name and Him’s name is James, but you can call Him Javelin.”

Mavis choked on her pizza. “Javelin, you’re a nut,” she said when she stopped coughing. Even Paul let out a smile and things lightened up a little as we all talked and laughed. When Dirk ran out of quarters, he came back to the table. It was getting late and I needed to get home, and do some chores.

I said, “It’s been fun. We should do this more often, but I have to get home. Mother has a list of chores for me to do by Saturday and I haven’t started on the first one yet.”

Javelin pushed back his chair and said, “I’ll walk you home, Blueberry Girl.”

A gasp came from Dirk. He said, “Don’t call her that, dude.” Paul’s face was white, as he agreed with Dirk. “Man, don’t you know that’s not cool. Don’t call Vivian that name again. You want hell to rain down on us?”

I was puzzled, so was Jerome and Mavis. But not Javelin, his face contorted with an anger I had never witnessed and hoped never to again. “You people live in the stone age in this freaking town. Just because I call my girl something, doesn’t mean a freaking curse is going to descent from above and smite us. If you people got out and experienced the real world, you would figure out that curses and superstitions are a thing of the past.”

He took my arm, “Come on, baby. Let’s go before I say too much.”

As we walked away, Paul said, “You can’t run from destiny. No matter how fast you are. It catches up sooner or later.”

Our walk was quiet. We were halfway home, before Javelin calmed down. I couldn’t stop myself from asking questions. “Javelin, are you going to explain what that was all about?”

“No, but I have a feeling you won’t let it rest, so I’ll give you the scoop on what Dirk and Paul are so afraid of--the curse that our families are destined to experience every other generation. The last time it struck was during my Grandfather’s youth. He never talks about it but I once overheard him and Trent’s grandfather discuss it before he died years ago.”

“No one talks about it. I hear people mention it and as soon as it’s mentioned, people hush it away.”

“They’re afraid. I shouldn’t have been so hard on those guys but jeepers, wake up. We’re moving into the eighties. Time to let old beliefs die.”

“What happened when your Grandfather was young?” I asked.

“Someone murdered a woman who lived in the woods. She harvested blueberries and sold them. I heard she was beautiful. The towns people called her ‘Blueberry Girl.’ I’m surprised you don’t know this.” He said, staring at me. “But whoever murdered her, did it very violently. And there’s a chance my Grandfather, Paul, Trent and Dirk’s grandfathers were involved. But no one could prove it.”

I was a bit horrified to hear this. Javelin saw my expression and pulled me into his arms. “Don’t worry, Vivian. I won’t let anything happen to you. It’s just stupid gossip. If we go to every house in this town, I know every person can relate to us horrible things that have happened to relatives past and present. For some stupid reason, the town’s decided that anything that happens to Paul, Dirk and Trent’s family...and mine is related to a curse placed on us generations back.”

“You’re right. It is silly to put so much belief into curses. I’ll try not to think about it.” We started walking again, holding hands tightly. I asked one more question. “Where in the woods did this blueberry lady live? Is her house still there.” In all my exploration of the blueberry trails, I had never seen an abandoned house.

Javelin sighed. “No one can find it now. The woods reclaimed it after she died.” He pulled close to him again. “Promise you won’t try to find it. I looked for it after I heard them talking and almost got lost in the depths of the woods.”

“Did they confess to each other?” I asked.

“No, they promised each other that they would watch their grandchildren. And pray for mercy.”

When we got to my house, I invited Javelin in. It was time for him to officially meet my parents. I thought I should warn him about my mother, so he wouldn’t take it the wrong way when she gave us the silent treatment. “Javelin, my Mother hasn’t gotten over Trent and I breaking up. So if she acts rude or silent. Don’t take it personal. She’ll come around.”

Javelin grinned. “You’ve only experienced part of the Bow-Ridge charm. I’ve got this covered, baby.”

And he did. He charmed Mother into acting like a blushing young school girl. He complimented her from her hair to her shoes. Javelin exclaimed over the wonders of her delicious blueberry preserves and jams. When my father came in from work, he and Javelin talked sports and fishing. Mother convinced him to stay for dinner and we had one of the most enjoyable meals ever served at my house. It occurred to me that Javelin brought laughter into a somber home and I believe it was at that moment that I knew I was totally in love with him.

When the blueberries ripened, he helped Mother and I pick them. We spent the time, laughing at silly stories Javelin told. During this time, I embraced the ease that Mother and I had with each other. She wasn’t as frigid as before, and she didn’t fuss when I sketched while we took breaks for ice tea and homemade cookies.

I had predicted a bountiful crop. The blueberries were ripening faster than we could pick them One day Javelin showed up with ten boys I recognized from the park down from the school. They spent the summer playing basketball or football. Javelin said to Mother, “Mrs. Wilde, I told Grandfather about how fast the blueberries were ripening. He told me to get you some help and I got these guys to help us until we got the berries under control."

“But that could take days. I can’t afford to pay them,” Mother said.

“Grandfather is. Don’t worry your lovely head over it. Let’s get these berries picked and pickled.” Javelin’s charm won again. Mother smiled and said, “Tell your Grandfather I said thank you.”

“You can tell him this Sunday. He wants the whole Wilde family over for dinner.” Javelin winked at me. Watching Mother’s face brighten up, I knew that Trent was off her mind. She hugged Javelin and that cinched his acceptance into our family. His acceptance as my new boyfriend. Now life would be easier around my house and I let out a deep sigh of relief.

Chapter 16

The next day Mother and I spent it together. She asked a zillion questions about the dinner party. I told her what she wanted to hear. We went down a few of the blueberry paths and were happy to see the first signs of berries. For the next few hours, we discussed our crop and calculated what type of products we should make with the blueberries once they became ripe. It was a pleasant day. I danced around the house, happy that Javelin wanted me. Every time Trent popped into my head, I would push him away. I knew I would have to figure out what I was going to do, but for the moment I decided to enjoy the bliss I felt when I thought of kissing Javelin.

After Mother and I finished our blueberry plans, I walked a few of the trails alone. I carried a note pad and made calculations on when the berries would ripen, marking them down. One of the paths led me directly into Eva.

At first, she didn’t see me and seemed distraught over something. But when she saw me, she recovered herself and masked whatever it was that was bothering her. She blocked the path, standing with folded arms. “Did you have a grand evening at the Bow-Ridge house last night?”
My mouth involuntarily fell open. How in hell had she found out? I decided to go the direct pathway with her. “Yes, I did. Mr. Bow-Ridge invited me over for dinner. He wanted to express his gratitude for the painting that our art class gave to him.”

“You mean, the painting that Mr. Watts got rid of for you. You don’t have to pretend you aren’t in love with Little James. I know you are. And you can’t have both guys, Vivian. I’ve told Trent. He’ll be calling you soon. How are you going to get out of this one? Mr. Watts can’t rescue you.” She laughed and walked around me, not bothering to wait for a response.

I knew if I went home, Mother would tell me that Trent had called. I decided to handle this in person. It would be easier to plead my case that way than over the phone, where Mother might over-hear us. Trent was sitting on a log down by the lake. He was skipping rocks, something he did when he was upset or uncertain about something. I knew the something was me.

“Hi,” I said, casually. “Did you have fun last night with Paul? I bet you guys are plotting about how to break into the drag racing business.” I wanted things to be light between us, but from his expression, I wasn’t going to get what I wanted.

“Vivian, is it true you had dinner with Little James last night?” He went straight to the heart of the matter.

“Yes, but it just wasn’t with him. It was with his Grandfather too. The elder Mr. Bow-Ridge invited me. I still have the invitation at home, if you don’t believe me.”

“Why didn’t you tell me? Eva said one of the maids who works there saw you kissing Little James by the pool. Is this true? She said you were in love with him.” His pained expression made my heart sad. I didn’t want to hurt him. And how Eva knew about Javelin and I kissing by the pool remained to be seen. I felt a cold shiver run through me, as I wondered if she would stoop to stalking us.

I couldn’t lie to Trent. “We did hang out by the pool for a while. And...we did kiss. In a spontaneous kind of way. To be honest, I’m not sure what really happened, Trent. All I know is that I’m confused about a lot of things, Trent.”

He looked angry. “Did you have sex with him?”

“No! I can’t believe you asked that.” His accusation angered me. “Sex isn’t on everyone’s mind, Trent. Just because you’re obsessed with it doesn’t mean I am!”

He said words that I didn’t want to hear, words I had thought of myself. “Maybe we should take a break from each other, so you can get this guy out of your system, Vivvie. I can’t have you by my side until this is over. I’ll wonder if you’re wishing I was Bow-Ridge.”

“Oh Trent,” I cried out, tears coming down my face. I didn’t want to lose him, yet I couldn’t deny that I was attracted to Javelin.

“I’m upset and very unhappy about this, too, but I don’t see another way. Eva said I should give you some time to choose between me and Javelin. I think she’s right.”

The mention of Eva sent waves of rage through me. “Eva is causing trouble because she can’t have him to herself. Be careful, Trent. She’s after you too.” I couldn’t bear it any longer, I ran away, crying all the way home.

I stuck around the house for a few days. Trent didn’t call. Nor did Javelin. I wondered if he knew that Trent and I weren’t together. Part of me wanted him to call, but the part that cared deeply for Trent knew I needed to mourn our parting.

Mavis called a few days later. “Girl, are you okay?” she asked. “I heard about you and Trent. Eva is telling everyone she comes in contact with. Does your Mother know?”

“Not yet, but I better tell her tonight. She’s gonna hate me.” I said.

“Throw out the Bow-Ridge name and it should take some of the sting away.” Mavis said. “Sorry, don’t mean to sound malicious but your Momma puts a lot of stock into you marrying into the Sawyer family. It might never happen. You know how those society people are. They want pureblood.”

“True. What has Eva been saying?” I asked.

Mavis cleared her throat, “That you and Javelin were seen kissing by the pool.”

“How could she know that?” I asked. “Mavis, I have a suspicion that she’s stalking him. We were far away from the house. I can‘t imagine any of their help telling a mere girl what goes on there. They all seem to love Mr. Bow-Ridge.”

“Girl, don’t you know her Momma works as a maid for Paul’s dad? Eva hate it. She thinks Paul looks down on her.”

“I didn’t know. It makes sense now. I’m sure the maid circuit likes to gossip. Paul doesn’t look down on anyone,” I said, defending him.

Mavis cleared her throat and then said, “Vivian, I’m sorry about you and Trent, but I think you should give Javelin a chance. Jerome and I went to the movie house with him yesterday. When your name comes up, his face lights up. Trent’s doesn’t. And he talks about you in a way Trent never has. That boy’s got it bad for you. And I have a feeling you feel the same.”

While we cleaned away the dinner dishes that night, I told Mother about Trent and I taking a break from dating; that is was his idea and not mine. She didn’t say anything, but her clenched lips spoke volumes. I went to my room as soon as we finished. For days, she gave me the cold shoulder and would barely speak to me.

When I needed to get away from Mother’s frigid silent treatment, I would slip away to my magnolia tree; hide there amongst its massive limbs. For days, I avoided everyone, especially Javelin. I didn’t take any phone calls. Poor Mavis called ten times one day, causing Mother to temporarily break her code of silence by asking me to either answer the phone or take it off the receiver. I took it off the receiver. Javelin finally called three days after our dinner. I was out checking on the blueberry production and missed his call, much to my relief. When I returned, Mother handed me a bit of paper that read “That Bow-Ridge Boy Called at 2:17 p.m.

Trent was right, I should get Javelin out of my system, but I knew deep inside that if I tried I would fail. So I avoided Javelin instead. A few days after his phone call, I was in my tree reading a science fiction novel, when I heard him calling, “Come out, Blueberry Girl, I know you’re here somewhere.”

I was so startled that I dropped my book. It crashed through the tree to land with a loud thump on the ground below. He let out a low chuckle, as I cursed under my breath for giving away my hiding spot. The tree shook as he climbed up it. I cried out, “There isn’t enough room up here.”
But he came anyway. “We’ll make room,” he said.

The branch I sat on wouldn’t hold both of us, so he settled on the largest limb below me, looking up at me as I looked down. He said, “You didn’t return my call.”

“I know.” I had no reasonable excuse to offer.

“I heard you and Sawyer broke up,” he said staring at my face for a reaction.

“I know.”

“Is that all you can say?” He asked.

“Looking down at him, I realized that there was no sanctuary from him, now that my secret place had been revealed. I could hide in other places if I wanted but he would find me. I replied, “No, I have other things to say.”

“Like what?” He asked, lighting a cigarette.

“Like, I hate it when you smoke and I’m sorry I didn’t return your call.”

He put out his cigarette on the tree branch. “Let’s get out of this tree.” We climbed out of the tree and into a relationship. The moment he took my hand, I became his girl. Javelin and I spent as much time together as could before the blueberries ripened.

We never saw Trent while we were out. From the grapevine’s whisper, I heard that Eva and Trent were joined at the waist. I wasn’t surprised. She wanted both Javelin and Trent, but settled on having Trent for now. I knew she hadn’t completely given up on Javelin.

Chapter 15

I arrived at the Bow-Ridge residence ten minutes early. Mother let me drive her car, because she didn’t think taking one of the paths through the woods was a good idea. We had to keep up appearances and she wanted me to make a great impression. A maid answered the door when I knocked. She directed me to a pallor and asked if I wanted some lemonade. I declined.

After she left to announce that I was there, I strolled around the pallor, looking at the various works of art. The Bow-Ridge house was the most elegant house in town. It sang of old money and the style of class that comes with it. From behind me, Mr. Bow-Ridge spoke. “It thrills me that another lover of art is in my home.”

He walked slowly into the room. I hurried over to offer my arm, which he took. “My dear child, you look very lovely tonight. Thank you for humoring an old man.”

He looked the part of a wealthy old man, but his eyes remained youthful. I smiled, “Thank you, sir. But I don’t see an old man here.”

“Better watch her, Grandfather. Her charm is potent.” Javelin spoke from the doorway. He was dressed casually in khaki pants and a pale yellow shirt. He boldly looked me up and down. If he liked my pale blue peasant blouse and dark blue peasant skirt, he didn’t show it. I had loosely braided my hair, so that it hung over my left shoulder. I had tied a pale blue ribbon about the end of it. A few wisps of hair framed my face.

He sat quietly as Mr. Bow-Ridge and I discussed art. At first I felt shy around both men, but it didn’t take long before I was relaxed, because I was passionate with my feelings regarding fine art and Mr. Bow-Ridge shared the same passion. After a while, Javelin broke through our discussion of Van Gough. “The soup is going to get cold if we don’t eat soon.”

Mr. Bow-Ridge said, “Yes, he’s right dear Vivian. We shall have to finish this topic later. Maybe you can come visit again. It is nice to have a vibrant female in the house.”

I smiled, “That would be nice. I enjoy talking with you.”

Javelin said, “The night’s not over, Vivian. There’s plenty of talking to do over dinner. Come on. I’m starving.”

We ate with joviality and gusto for fine foods. I laughed at the stories Mr. Bow-Ridge told of fishing with Javelin in the lake. And shared a few antidotes of my father’s attempts at catching fish. Soon it was time for dessert and I realized how fast time was flying. Javelin sat across from me and I didn’t mind that he watched me so closely. Being around him like this was refreshing and made me aware of his softer side--the one he displayed when talking or caring for his grandfather.

The hour grew late and I made excuses to leave. Mr. Bow-Ridge said, “Please stay a while longer. I’m tired but Little James isn’t. He doesn’t have many friends around the area. I assume it’s because he doesn’t live here and is considered an outsider by the youth of his age.”
Javelin jumped in, “He’s right, Vivian. I wouldn’t mind if you stayed just a little while longer.”
My mouth went dry. It was what I wanted. Both men stared at me, waiting for an answer. I said, “Just for a little longer. Mother will worry if I’m not home soon.”

Mr. Bow-Ridge took my hand and said, “Good night, Vivian. It’s been a pleasure having you in the house. Please come visit me again. You’re always welcome in this home.”

I impulsively hugged him. “Thank you for inviting me. I’ll come again soon. Good night.”

His valet helped him to his room. As soon as he was out of sight, Javelin grabbed my hand and we ran through the house. “Where are we going?” I asked.

“You’ll see,” he said.

We ended up outside by the pool. There were lanterns and a stereo sitting on the bar at the end of the pool. Javelin and I sat on bar stools and I watched him put on a record. The screeching of guitars invaded the night. He said, “All I have is rock and roll. I bet you’re a ‘funk’ girl, aren’t you?”

I laughed, “No but Mavis is. I like soft music, like Neil Diamond or John Denver.”

We sat in silence for a while. Javelin spoke after a bit. “Once again, you’ve made my Grandfather happy. Will you promise me something?”

“What?” I said absent-mindedly. His aftershave was intoxicating. All I could do was breathe deeply.

“Visit him after I leave this summer. He likes you. And I think having you come by some, will break up the dullness of the house.”

“I’ll come visit. You aren’t leaving any time soon, are you?” I asked, fear taking hold of me.
“When school starts up in August, I’ll be heading back to South Miami. Will you miss me, Blueberry Girl?” He moved off his stool to stand close to me.

“The summer’s just starting. Ask me again when it’s over.” I wanted to make the moment light, to break up the sudden tension between us.

“I’m going to kiss you again.” He announced it with a calmness and in a matter-of-fact voice.
He put his hands on my face, kissing me lightly at first. He paused, giving me a moment to protest, but I didn’t. I couldn’t deny myself this pleasure. I had to know if I would feel the same desire I had during that first kiss. And later, I would deal with the consequences. We kissed for a long time. As moments passed, our passion became greater. His hands roamed over my breasts, causing my nipples to harden and ache. I hand my hands on the buttons of his skirt, opening them so I could feel his fine chest hair. As suddenly as he started, he abruptly ended the kissing.
“You make me lose my head, Vivian,” he said in a shaking voice.

I sat on the stool, trying to gain my composure. “You make me lose mine too.”

Javelin pulled me off the stool and into an embrace. He held me close for a long time. Whispering in my ear, he said, “I’ve never felt like this before. The first time I saw you in that blueberry thicket, I knew you were special. My gut tightened up. I wanted you right then. Did you feel it?”

“Yes,” I said. “But there’s...”

“Don’t say his name. You can’t deny you want me, Blueberry Girl. Your kisses shout it to me. I wish you would give me a chance. To see where this leads.” His voice was honey in my ear, but I was torn--wanting him and knowing that I couldn’t break Trent’s trust in me.

“I don’t know. I can’t think straight,” I said. He kissed me again, long and passionately. His hunger for me, pressing against me. It was the first time I had felt an erection so determined to express itself.

“You can’t deny your effect on me,” he said, pulling away from me. “If I give you time to think, you’ll run away. I know you.” I stepped away from him.

I’ve got to get home,” was all I could think to say. I gathered my handbag and hurried towards the back fence and to safety, away from the desire from him that screamed to be released.
“I’m a patient guy, Blueberry Girl. I’ve got all summer. And I know before it’s over. We’ll be together like we’re meant to be.”

Chapter 14

The week following the art show was quiet. Mother spent the days humming. I wasn’t dispatched to the blueberry trails that often. She insisted that Father send one of his men to check on the blooms and see if the berries were starting to turn up. Mother had a theory that the rest of the rich families would want paintings done of their children or grandchildren now that Mr. Bow-Ridge loved his painting so much. He sent me two dozen pink roses in a large bouquet the day after the show. Mother invited some of her friends over for tea and used the bouquet as a centerpiece on the table. No one could see around it. I wanted to scream to Mother that she was milking dry the notoriety of the presentation.

When the engraved envelope bearing the Bow-Ridge seal arrived, Mother danced around the room with it. She opened it, ignoring the fact it was addressed to me. “Vivian, Mr. Bow-Ridge has sent an invitation for dinner this coming Saturday night,” she said.

“I can’t do this coming Saturday. Trent is taking me to a movie.” We had planned this date for two weeks. No dinner party was more important than my Trent . I hadn’t seen Javelin since the show. And I was thankful his allure had waned.

“You’ll have to cancel.” She glared at me, daring me to disagree with her.

“But Mother…”

“No buts, Vivian Carol. You’re going to send a R.S.V.P. this instant, accepting the invitation. After that, we’re going to go upstairs and look in your closet for something suitable to wear.” She spoke with a determination I knew I couldn’t win against.

I sighed in defeat. “Yes, Mother.”

She made sure she told certain people that I was going to dine with the Bow-Ridge family. I hoped it wouldn’t get back to Trent in a bad way. My Mother needed a reminder of where her loyalties lay. So I said in a very casual way. “Mother, I hope the Sawyers don’t take offense that I’m a favorite at the Bow-Ridge residence. You do know that the two families aren’t very close, don’t you?”

That thought hadn’t occurred to her. I could see it in her expression. “Hmm, I hadn’t thought of that. We can’t have Trent getting upset and complaining to his family about you and the Bow-Ridges, especially after the original rumors.” She mused aloud. “Oh, I’m sorry my dear I know they weren’t true after all. Maybe I shouldn’t say too much about you dining with them. I don’t want more gossip to start. Some people still think there is a romance brewing between you and that boy. We can’t have the Sawyer family upset, can we?”

My plan worked and Mother toned down her bragging. She didn’t mention my dinner date with the Bow-Ridge men to anyone after that. I wished I had thought of using the Bow-Ridge/Sawyer rival angle before I accepted the invitation. But like Mother pointed out, I couldn’t be rude and not attend the dinner. If I were honest with myself, I would confess that I wanted to go, mainly to look at my painting again.

With her interest in the Bow-Ridges deleted, I was left up to my own devices. I spent my free time with Trent, whose free time was tied up with Paul and Dirk, unless Dirk was at Eva’s beck and call. At times I felt like a tag-a-long, because the guys either played basketball or talked about sports or cars. I would sit beside Trent, listening to their conversations. He would either hold my hand or play with my braided hair.

I spent a lot of time thinking about our relationship. Would having sex with him create the bond I knew was missing? Wasn’t sex intimate? The intimacy in our relationship was missing. At times I felt as if I was just one of the guys with breasts. Trent pressed me for sex almost daily, yet he never tried to seduce me. There was no igniting of passion in his kisses. The chance that having sex with him would be purely mechanical was extremely high.

My mind played over the pros and cons of sex with Trent so much that I felt as if I were in a tennis match. There was only one person I could talk to about this: Mavis. I called her the morning of the Bow-Ridge dinner and asked if she was free for lunch. My luck was with me and we met at the pizza parlor.

Mavis greeted me with a big hug. “Girl, I’ve missed you. How are things going?” We sat at a corner table, waiting to order. Mavis loved to accessorize her outfits with a dramatic flair. Today she wore a purple fabric thing in her thick afro.

“Things are better. No one’s accusing me of betraying Trent now. Mother’s happy that I am in good graces with Mr. Bow-Ridge and... Mavis, what the heck is that purple thing in your hair?”

“A flower! Haven’t you heard of flower power, sister? It is summer, you know.” Mavis did a few silly poses with her head.

“That explains everything,” I said laughing at her antics.

Mavis smiled. “Jerome hates it, but I think it makes a powerful statement: Make love not war.”
Since she opened the door to the topic of sex, which was on my mind constantly now, I jumped through the opening. “Mavis, have you...um...done it yet?”

“Don’t it? What is it?” She had a gleam in her eye and I knew she would pretend not to understand. She got a kick out of teasing me sometimes.

“Sex,” I whispered.

She looked around to see if anyone was within hearing range. Then whispered back, “Not yet. But Jerome and I have talked about it.”

“Is he pressuring you too?” I asked.

“No girl, I brought it up first. Jerome’s got a fine body. I’m curious to see all of it.” She gave me a piercing look. “Is Trent pushing you into sex? Girl, don’t do it until you’re ready. You’ll know when you are.”

“How will I know?” I asked even though I sort of had an inkling, remembering that one kiss Javelin and I shared and how I wanted to feel his bare skin. I said, quickly because I didn’t want to hear any more about her descriptive desire for Jerome. “Don’t tell me. I’ll figure it out.”

“Figure out what?” Jerome stood beside our table.

“Man, how did you know we were here?” Mavis asked, surprised as I was to see him.
“I came in for a slice of pizza and saw two foxy chicks sitting over here. So I came over to investigate and to my disappointment, it was you two chicks.” He laughed as Mavis hit his arm. She looked at me, silently asking if he could join us.

“Jerome, why don’t you sit with us? We haven’t ordered yet.” I said. Mavis and Jerome were fun to be around. I could use some light-hearted conversation. I didn’t mind if he joined us.
“What’s happening?” Jerome asked after we placed our pizza order. “I haven’t seen the guys all week. What are they up too?”

“Basketball and just chilling out,” I said. “Trent thinks you and Mavis are going to run off and get married.”

Mavis snorted, “Not until I sample the goods.” I blushed as Jerome leaned over to kiss her deeply. When they were finished, he asked, “What were we talking about?”

“Trent and the guys. And you two getting married.” I said.

“Don’t say anything to Trent, but I’ve been hanging out with the most hated Bow-Ridge youngster this week,” said Jerome. “I think it’s stupid that those two hate each other so much. All over who’s better: Marshal Matt Dillon or Clint Eastwood.

“That’s why there’s so much dislike? Over cowboys?” Mavis and I laughed. But I remembered how Trent loves “Gun Smoke” and could understand how he wouldn’t like a very opinionated guy dispute Trent’s claim that he was the best cowboy around.

Jerome said earnestly, “When someone tries to tear down the pedestal your hero stands on, you take it personal. Trent and Javelin are both as stubborn as mules. When it comes to ‘honor and respect.’ Would you girls like someone knocking down Barbie when you were girls?”

My eyes went wide. “You don’t call him ‘Little James’ like everyone else?”

“No,” he said. “That’s a stupid nickname. He’s no baby.”

I nodded, “What have you two guys been up too?”

“The usual he-man stuff; cars, sports and women,” he said in a macho voice.

“Did you spit and pull at your crotch, too?” Mavis asked.

Jerome laughed, “You can pull my crotch anytime you want, baby girl!” After we stopped laughing, he said to me, “I’ll tell you this, but don’t tell Javelin I said this, but that boy’s got it bad for you, Viv.”

“For me? Why do you say that?” I asked. My heart pounded so loudly, my voice sounded muffled in my own ear. I pretended not to know that Javelin was attracted to me. And I couldn’t deny that I was curious as to what he might have said to Jerome.

“He’s been asking a hundred questions about you and about you and Trent. And I told him want he wanted to know, so he would quit bugging me about you. Try not to get to mad at me.” He braced himself for the verbal abuse he thought I would give, but I gave him none.

Mavis had been watching my reaction. And saw that I couldn’t say anything, because I was afraid of what sort of questions Javelin had asked. So she asked, “What kind of questions?”

“Mainly about how serious Vivian and Trent were and if they had gone all the way.” He looked apologetic, “Don’t worry Viv, but I told him no. Trent would have told us guys if you two had done it yet. He asked some questions about your family and stuff like that. But he did ask one strange question.”

“Strange question?” I asked, finding my voice.

“Yes, he asked if I had ever seen you with you hair hand hanging loose and free. I told him, ‘Hell no. That no one has,’” said Jerome.

Mavis said, “Vivvie, Eva doesn’t buy the painting ‘story’ as she puts it. She is convinced you and this guy have something going on. I told her to get over it and pay attention to Dirk, because he’s in love with her. But I don’t think she’ll let it rest. So be careful around her. She’s got it bad for...Javelin? Is that what you called him, Jerome?”

“Yes. Javelin. And he’s got it bad for Viv.”

“Maybe you should mention to Javelin that Eva’s got the hots for him,” I said. “I don’t need Eva trying to pin me into a corner over this. She can have the guy if it will get her to acting normal again.” But I knew he wouldn’t go for Eva. I had heard their conversation. She could wish all she wanted for his love, but it would never be hers. I couldn’t deny it any longer. He wanted me. The mental image of Javelin holding my long hair in his hands wiped the thought of Eva from my mind.

I mused aloud without thinking, “Maybe I should wear my hair down tonight when I go to Javelin’s for dinner.”

“What?” Mavis and Jerome spoke in unison.

I blushed. I couldn’t believe I just said that aloud. “The elder Bow-Ridge has invited me to dine with him tonight. He thinks he owes me for the painting I did.”

Mavis asked, “What about Trent? Don’t you have a big movie date tonight?”“We did but he canceled. Paul has tickets to a drag race and they are going tonight.”

Jerome laughed, “And you haven’t told him about the dinner date, I bet.”

I shook my head, “No, he’ll get all weird over it.”

Mavis let out a low whistle. “Girl, I think you better wear that hair up tonight.”

Chapter 13

My exhibit was swamped with people, all asking about Javelin’s painting. Mother stood beside me, answering for me. I let her. This was the first time she had ever shown interest in my art, and to hear her one would think she had supported my artistic efforts from the beginning. Once Mr. Watts came over and listened to her for a while. He caught my eye and we both smiled. With a shake of his head, he left to mingle with the crowd.

My friends had stopped by to hug me and congratulate me on being chosen to paint the portrait for Mr. Bow-Ridge. “You could have told us the truth, Vivvie,” Trent said to me. Mavis and Paul agreed. He said, “And you got Eva upset for nothing!”

As for Eva, I didn’t believe for one second that she fell for the presentation and the reason behind the painting. She was there and had witness the event. My hope was that she would let it rest. None of my friends hung around for long, because there were too many people trying to talk to me. They each said their goodnights and hurried away. I didn’t blame them. I wanted to leave, too.

A hand on my arm distracted me from a story Mother was telling about one of my early childhood painting experiences. I had drawn stick figures on the kitchen floor. I barely remembered doing it. And I found humor in how she left out the part about how angry she was when she saw what I had done. When I felt the arm, I hoped it was someone that I could spend some time talking to who wasn’t interested in the story behind the presentation.

The arm belonged to Javelin. He moved me through the crowd. We didn’t speak. I was conscious of his aftershave and how warm his hand was on my bare arm. The crowd parted for us and I found myself standing before the elder Mr. Bow-Ridge. He smiled at me and motioned for me to sit beside him. I glanced at Javelin, who nodded that it was okay.

Mr. Bow-Ridge took my hand and said, “Sit beside me, lovely girl. I want to thank you for the painting. It’s like you pasted Little James on the canvas and painted around him. The likeness is astounding.”

His hand was icy cold. I cupped it, trying to warm it between mine. “Thank you, sir. It was my pleasure. I enjoyed painting it.”

“However did you get him to stay still for the portrait?” he asked. This was one question no one had asked and I didn’t have Mother to answer for me.

Javelin broke in. “Grandfather, this girl can paint faster than Billy the Kid could draw.” Mr. Bow-Ridge laughed along with me. Javelin winked at me and I flushed.

“She has to come to dinner one night, Little James. What a lovely creature!” Mr. Bow-Ridge tightened his hand over mine. He leaned a bit closer to my ear and said, “Thank you. Now I’ll have my grandson around me for the rest of my life.”

“I think we should get home, Grandfather. It’s late and you’ve been up all day.” Javelin said to the elder Bow-Ridge, who did look drained.

“Where’s your father, Jav…um…Little James?” I realized I hadn’t seen him since they arrived and really had no idea what he looked like.

“Dad’s been called to one of the naval bases for consulting. He’ll be back in a week or so.” Javelin helped me up from my chair. His lips were at my ear. “You love ravishing tonight. I wish I could ravish you. Meet me by the lake at midnight? Maybe we can dance naked for a while?” His devilish smile was enchanting. I shook my head, wishing I could meet him but any contact with him would be dangerous to my relationship with Trent.

“You know I can’t do any such thing. I’ve got to get home before then or I turn into a …”

Javelin interrupted me. “Blueberry?” We both laughed. He added with a serious voice. “You really do look beautiful tonight. When will I see you with your hair down? I bet it is one hell of a sight! Hey, I don’t know why you really painted me, but I thank you for making my Grandfather so happy.” He squeezed my arm, before turning to take the arm of his grandfather.

Mr. Bow-Ridge offered me his hand again. “Young lady, what’s your name? I’m sorry I’ve forgotten it.”

“Vivian Wilde, sir.”

“Will you dine with my Grandson and I one night next week? I’ll have him make the arrangements. It would be my pleasure to have such a lovely dinner guest.”

I was trapped and knew if I didn’t accept that I would be on Mother’s bad side again. “Yes sir, I would be honored.” Javelin’s smile said things that made me blush.

After they left, I viewed the other exhibits and talked to their owners. They all congratulated e on a job well done, all except for Eva. When I got to her exhibit, she was standing beside one of her paintings. “I love this one, Eva.” I said, trying to make peace. “I can’t get my pinks to look that pure when I use them in a sunrise.”

I thought she was going to ignore me at first. Finally she spoke, “Thanks, Vivian. You sure stole the show tonight. Whose idea was it to give the painting to Mr. Bow-Ridge? I’m putting my money on Mr. Watts. Little James didn’t sit for that painting. You and I know it. I was there, remember? How could you have painted him so perfectly like you did without him sitting there? You didn’t have any sketches to go by.”

“What does it matter, Eva? The painting is his now. I consider it a closed case. Why don’t we move on from it? I hate this…this...weirdness between us.”

I cringed to think of what kind of a thought made her face twist with momentary anger. “I have no use for you, Vivian. Poor Trent thinks he’s got an angelic girlfriend. I hope I’m there to see it, when he finds out differently. I wonder if your Mother will disown you the day Trent kicks you out of his life. You'll literally be a starving artist then.”