The Culling

By M J Lumbert

Love and happiness are the most difficult aspects of life that we as humans continue to try and obtain. They are the most complex emotions and when we are lucky enough to find them, we will do almost anything to hold onto that incredible feeling. We have no control over whom we will fall in love with. We do however have control over whether or not we will allow ourselves to truly feel that absolute joy.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Oct 27, 2014
• ISBN: 9781483540436

Book preview

FOR MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS

As kids we always heard the term ‘BIG BROTHER’ for the government watching us – but someone has to watch them. So for all my computer geeky family and friends – I love you even when you laugh at my less than adequate computer skills.

Other Books by M J Lumbert

Flora’s Trilogy:

Accidental Meetings – Book 1

Complications – Book 2

Truth be Told – Book 3

***

Sketches of Time – Molly’s Story

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The Good Fight

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Seasons – A Love Story

This story is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and events are a product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead is entirely coincidental.

The Culling copyright ©2014 Melissa J Lumbert

ISBN: 9781483540436

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission by the author.

DESCRIPTION

Love and happiness are the most difficult aspects of life that we as humans continue to try and obtain. They are the most complex emotions and when we are lucky enough to find them, we will do almost anything to hold onto that incredible feeling. We have no control over whom we will fall in love with. We do however have control over whether or not we will allow ourselves to truly feel that absolute joy.

Emma Sawyer tried to find love once, but it didn’t end well. She left the one place she called home and moved to another state to escape the hatefulness of her ex. Now that she has found happiness within herself once again, the question is whether or not she will allow her heart to try again.

Chris Monroe has no time for love. Computers fill not only the apartment but Chris’s life. Love is pretty low on the list of wishes. It holds very little importance and Chris feels no immediate need to fulfill that innate desire. Chris is busy with the computer work, being an amazing hacker. Chris makes a great living and also is a watcher of the watchers along with others all over the world. They keep watch for the tiny hints of mayhem that can cause the breakdown of economies or countries. This is very important work, if you’re into that kind of stuff.

You just never know when and how hard cupid’s arrow will hit.

1

Emma Sawyer moved to Maine in August. She fell in love with the area, the colors of fall here, and the warmth of the people in the area. She quickly added this state to her license to sell real estate and got a job with a local company. Her goal was to someday be on her own as a realtor but for now this worked.

She worked diligently in setting up her apartment. Emma enjoyed the view from her living room windows. She could see the water, probably the only one in the building being on the top floor and at this angle. Emma would fix simple dinners and sat alone to eat. Since she was never allowed to eat her dinner on the couch, she sat at the dining room table each night. The television was on in the living room area so she could hear the news. Her grandmother always listened to the news at dinner time. Once the local stuff was done and it went to national news, it was all about the upcoming election. The new President and all the underlings would be elected in the coming year. Just like the holiday commercials, political ads started earlier ever year. Emma was so sick of hearing all the crap that they spewed forth. She could not wait unit it was done. She would have to go and register soon, but had no idea who to vote for. Emma was not a very political person.

Loving the holidays, her decorations for each flowed into the next, taking from one and adding to it. The pumpkins used at Halloween were kept for Thanksgiving but the witches were removed. The berry and greenery arrangements that were added were kept after Thanksgiving but the pumpkins were removed. Emma was very good at being able to incorporate her limited funds for the best use possible. Her tiny apartment also didn’t have anything in the way of actual storage, so that as well played a part in her decorating acuity.

As Thanksgiving ended and rolled into Christmas, Emma decided to get a tree. She was making her way into the building with it when she first met Chris Monroe. The tree was half way through the door and stuck. Emma was inside trying to pull it through but not able to get it any further. Unfortunately she couldn’t get by the tree to open the door better and get the top end through.

Chris stood outside waiting to enter the building. Should I help this beautiful creature or not? With a shrug of shoulders, Chris opened the door wide and offered a helping hand. Hey there, having some difficulty with the tree I see. Would you like some help with that?

Emma blew her bangs up in exasperation. Yes please, that would be great. Thank you so much.

Chris had seen Emma a few times going in and out but she was always so primly dressed no chase ensued. Emma didn’t seem to be Chris’s type. With one hand on the door and the other on the tree, Chris was easily able to help Emma get the tree through. Let me help you get it up to your apartment. I’m Chris Monroe by the way. I live in #201. You’re on three, right?

Yes, #303. Thank you so much for the help today. I appreciate it. How about a glass of wine, payment for the help? My name is Emma Sawyer by the way.

They had switched places and Chris was carrying the bottom (heavy end) of the tree up the stairs backwards. Emma was now carrying the top end trying to guide Chris into certain death. Yeah, I know your name. You do real estate right?

Yes that’s right. I’ve seen you around a couple of times but you never seemed like you wanted to speak to me. What is it that you do Chris?

Computers, I work with computers. Chris was quiet again. You don’t need to invite me into your apartment, I get it.

They were coming up on the third floor landing. You get what? What are you talking about?

I’m not someone you would normally associate with Ms. Sawyer. It’s not a problem, really. You’re not someone I would normally associate with either. Here, let me hold the tree up while you open your door. I can help you set it up and then I’ll leave. Do you have a tree stand?

Yes, it’s been in my family for years. I’m still confused though. Who or what do you think I am Chris? I’m a very basic person. I wear specific clothes to work because the job demands it. Please don’t assume that I am what I wear to work. She had the door open and was helping to bring the tree inside. Until I can afford to go out on my own, I have to work for someone else. Welcome to my apartment.

Chris stood the tree up and waited while Emma retrieved the stand. All around the apartment there were touches of Christmas. It wasn’t overbearing or obnoxious, but very nice and homey here. Chris smiled at the feeling this place gave off. It was warm and inviting and friendly.

Emma walked back in from the bedroom with the stand. It was shaped like an old fashioned wooden sled with iron rails and was very heavy. She set it down so the tree could be set in the holder. Chris lifted the tree and set it into the tube then had Emma hold the tree so it didn’t flip while tightening the screws into the base. Lying on the floor Chris asked. Is it straight? Will you please stand back away and take a good look at it. It’s much easier to fix before all the decorations are put on. Chris waited while Emma looked from several angles. Well?

Emma was looking at the tree, and Chris’s butt and legs. The jeans fit well. It’s perfect, thank you. How about that glass of wine? If you don’t have plans you could help with the lights. I promise not to correct you too much. She smiled.

Chris was looking up at her from the floor. Emma’s hand stretched out to help Chris up. When they were standing in front of each other, Emma looked into Chris’s blue eyes solidly. Neither pulled from the stare, Chris bent slightly and kissed her soft cheek. I can go now.

I don’t want you to. Please stay, if you want to. I don’t want you to go yet. I’m enjoying your company.

Even after the kiss? Chris’s brow rose slightly and a dimple appeared with the shy smile.

The kiss was nice. She stepped over to her counter and opened the bottle of wine. Emma flashed her green eyes over at Chris before pouring the second glass. Please?

Sure, thank you Emma. Chris stepped over to the bar stools and sat watching her. That’s an interesting bottle stopper.

Thanks She set the bottle down and stretched the cap over it. I saw these the other day down on the water front in one of the little shops. I hate fighting with a cork and though there are days and nights when I could drink the whole bottle myself, I try to refrain from doing so. Emma said this perfectly serious then crinkled her nose before her bright smile emerged.

Chris was laughing out loud. You are funny Emma Sawyer. I’m surprised that there aren’t fifty people lined up to ask you out. And here you are alone. Why is that?

Emma tilted her head to the side. She pulled cheese from the fridge and crackers from the cupboard, setting them on a plate. Well at least fifty have asked me out, but I’m not in the dating mood right now so I have refused them all. Now how about a refill and we attempt the lights?

Sure Chris stood up to head back into the living room. When the cellphone buzzed, Chris looked at it, texted a quick answer and put it back.

Your girlfriend?

No, just a friend. There is no girlfriend, or anything else. I don’t date. I have enough trouble taking care of myself. I don’t need that kind of trouble.

Now it was Emma’s turn to laugh out loud. To less complications and more communication. What do you say; can we at least be friends?

We can try. Chris set down the wine glass and picked up the lights. Starting from the top and making the way down around the tree was working.

Emma stood there watching, shaking her head. You don’t start at the bottom? How do you know where they will end up? You can’t plug it in at the front of the tree you know.

Chris stopped putting the lights on and turned to Emma. I’m sorry I thought you said you wanted help with the lights.

Maybe we can work together to make sure it ends in the right place.

That’s better.

Emma walked over and began to fix what needed fixing. When the first set of lights ended in the back, Chris raised an eyebrow over toward her and then grabbed the next string of lights. When the lights were done, the tree looked beautiful.

Are you leaving the tree where it is or do you want it moved back some now that the lights are on it?

I want it moved back toward the front wall of windows a little bit more, but I can do it. You’ve helped enough. I was planning on chicken parmesan for dinner. Would you like to share?

I’m not really dressed for dinner and you’re not dressed to be working on the floor. Once again Chris got down on the floor and slid the stand toward the wall. Tell me when.

.... When. Thank you. Will you excuse me for just a minute? Help yourself to more wine if you want. Emma retreated into the bedroom closing the door behind her. When she returned Chis was looking out the window in the front. See anything interesting out there?

You have a nice view here. This must be the best apartment in the building. When Chris turned toward Emma a smile came out. What’s with the quick change?

I was hoping it would make you feel better about having dinner with me if I were in sweats and a tee shirt. Will that work for you?

Yes and no. It doesn’t matter what you wear, you’re still better dressed than I am. I don’t see a computer set up anywhere.

Was that a question? Were you trying to hack into my system or something?

God no, I just find it odd that you don’t have a computer table or desk or something. Don’t you have a computer Emma?

Not that it’s really any of your business but I have a tablet that I use for e-mail and directions and looking up stuff. I have a work computer for the real estate stuff at work. I don’t have any other need for a computer system I don’t think.

Wow, really? I practically live on my computers. You don’t download games or movies or videos?

No, sorry, I like the simple life. So have you decided? Are you staying for dinner? I really do appreciate all the help today.

Dinner sounds great. I would like to go and clean up first though. I’ll be back in thirty minutes, ok?

You really do look fine, but ok, please come back though?

Promise. Chris left her to head to the second floor. Once inside it was shower time to very quickly clean up and change into clean clothes. After checking on the monitors for any notices or information, Chris shut it back down and left.

Knocking on Emma’s door again, Chris took a deep breath. Em it’s me, I told you I’d be right back.

The door opened and she stood there smiling. You just wanted to get out of doing all the work.

Not true, I’ll do whatever you’d like me to do. I just wanted to get cleaned up from my outing earlier that’s all. Put me to work. I can do anything.

Great the dishes are up there and silverware is in the drawer next to the sink.

I think I can manage that. Wow you have done a lot of the ornaments already. You are quick at that.

I know how I want them to look.

You mean there is a right and wrong way to put ornaments on a Christmas tree, seriously? And here I thought they just had to look good.

So you decorate with no rhyme or reason. I’ll have to stop by and see your apartment soon.

No, you don’t want to do that, ever. I don’t decorate. I don’t do holidays. I told you that already.

No you didn’t, why don’t you decorate or celebrate the holidays.

They aren’t important to me I guess. Besides, I’m too busy to screw around with this kind of stuff. What else do you need me to do Em?

Nothing, it should all be ready in just a minute. This stuff is important to me. It’s a celebration of life. Emma walked into the kitchen to pull the pan from the oven with the breaded chicken breasts. She took the pot with noodles and poured them into the strainer in the sink to drain. Once it was sufficiently done, she put the pasta in a big bowl. Emma put the marinara sauce into a bowl and the chicken onto a platter.

Chris was standing at the tree looking at her ornaments. They were very nice. Some looked like they may have been passed down from generations.

Meow.

Who are you?

That’s Holli. She’s my cat.

I figured that much out. Holly, for Christmas.

No, Holli with an ‘i’ for holidays, all holidays. She shares them with me. Come and sit down now. Dinner is on the table.

Chris meandered over and sat. Dinner smells terrific Em, thank you very much for this.

You haven’t tasted it yet. But it usually comes out pretty good.

I have no doubt it’s delicious. Once all was dished out and they were seated, the conversation continued. So do you have any good properties for sale?

That depends on what you consider ‘good’. I have quite a few listings. Are you looking for a house or a condo?

Neither, I’m looking for a big chunk of land, out in the woods, with very little access.

I don’t know of any right at the moment but I can keep an eye open for you. What are you looking to do with it? Sorry that’s none of my business.

How much do you really know about what I do?

I don’t know anything about what you do except that you told me you work with computers.

I spend quite an inordinate amount of time scanning the web, sometimes for people who hire me and sometimes for myself. The word floating around the waves is that the governments around the world are cooking up something bad. I want to have a place to go and be safe when the shit hits the fan. Excuse my language. This is delicious by the way, thank you. Chris sat quietly for a minute.

So you are one of those prepping people, aren’t you? Do you think the world is coming to an end?

I don’t know what’s going to happen with the world yet, but I do know that something is going on. I’m not one of those people. I just want to have a home and happiness before it all goes to hell.

So you want to run out into the woods. Haven’t you ever been told that danger lurks in the woods?

I plan on being prepared and by that I don’t mean highly armed. I just mean secure and ready. If someone asked me yesterday if I even cared about the world ending, my response would have been‘Hell No’. Let the whole place burn.

Really, what changed your mind?

You, today I met you. Today I was invited into an actual home, with warmth and life. Now I want more. Now, I don’t want the world to end. I want a chance to live and love. I’ve said too much already. I should get going now. Thank you so very much for giving me this glimpse into what the world should look like. It has been an amazing afternoon and evening. Chris stood up and walked over to Emma.

She stood up to walk to the door. Not knowing quite what to say about all Chris told her, she left it in the air so to speak. Thank you for all of your help today. Maybe we can spend time together again if you’d like.

Sure, we can do that if you’d like to. I’ll leave it up to you. I’m right downstairs in #201 for now. Chris was staring into emerald eyes now, darker than they were earlier. Emma was unsure if she wanted to be kissed or not...figuring what the hell, the chance would probably never present itself again. Chris’s hand came up to her cheek then slid around her neck and into her straight dark auburn hair. Chris then leaned into her and kissed her on the lips this time with desire. Emma kissed back. When Chris pulled away from her, she had a smile on her face and her eyes were happy.

Over the next couple weeks, each time they passed each other outside or in the building they would speak kindly. Each was polite and sincere to the other. On a Wednesday night two weeks before Christmas there was a knock on Chris’s door. Who is it?

Chris it’s me, Emma.

What is it you want Em?

I’d like to speak with you please. I have some information I think you would like to hear. Please may I come in?

The door slowly opened. How about if I come to your apartment in a few minutes? Will that be ok Em?

Are you afraid I’ll steal something from you Chris?

Laughing, Chris opened the door. No Love, I just didn’t think my place would be as pleasant as yours. You’re welcome to come inside Em.

She stepped inside and was shocked. Wow, how much is your electric bill? Are these all yours? Why would you want all of these running at the same time?

Um, I don’t pay for electricity Emma. Yes, they are all mine, and they all run at the same time because they are all scanning different sources.

Oh Emma didn’t know what to say about what she was looking at.

What is it you wanted to talk to me about Em?

Can you get away for a little while? I was going to have some sirloin tips and vegetables tonight. Want to share? Emma couldn’t help herself. She just kept looking around everywhere. It was all electronic equipment.

Sure, give me thirty minutes and I’ll be there. Can I bring something?

Just you. Emma smiled and turned to leave.

It was shower time before going to see Emma. I wonder what she’s up to now.

Once ready Chris went up to Emma’s apartment. Knock, knock, it’s me Em.

She opened the door with a smile on her face and she was licking chocolate from a spoon. Come in, I was just tasting the dessert.

I can see that. You have a little on your lips still. Chris stepped into the room watching her.

Emma licked her bottom lip and drew it into her mouth grazing her teeth over it. It’s good. Do you like chocolate?

Chris’s head shook to clear it, Yeah, I like...chocolate. then walked further into Emma’s apartment. It looks very nice in here. The tree is done and the boxes put away. You’re very organized aren’t you?

The tree was done the night we set it up. The boxes were put away that same night. Do you like my fireplace out here? I usually have it in the bedroom but I thought for Christmas it would look nice out here.

It looks great there. You’re beautiful Em. Now what is it you needed me for? Everything looks great.

Emma lowered her eyes and then raised them to meet Chris’s. Her eyes were pale green now. I just wanted to see you again. I’ve tried to be pleasant to you when we ran into each other but you never asked me out or seemed to want to spend time with me. Do you not want to spend time with me Chris? Please just say so and I won’t invite you over again.

Are you sure you want to spend time with me?

Yes, why would you think otherwise?

I don’t know. I just ... don’t know. How can I help with dinner?

How are you with salad tongs?

I’m sorry did you say ‘salad tongs’ or a ‘sexy thong’? I’m good with both by the way.

Emma blushed so bad she had to walk away. She went over to the windows in the front of the living room and looked out over the water. She had a huge grin on her face but was still so unsure of herself.

Chris walked over to where she stood. I shouldn’t have said that, I’m sorry, I had no right to say that.

Emma turned toward Chris. No don’t be sorry, I just wasn’t expecting you to say it. You threw me for a loop and of course I hate blushing so much. I’m the one that’s sorry. You are very funny. She reached her hand out and touched Chris’s side. Are you cold? You could take the hoodie jacket off you know, or are you planning on running out the door again? Emma reached up to the zipper and started to slide it down.

Chris caught her hand and looked at her with such intensity. You are being more than just friendly now. I thought you didn’t want more Em. I think you don’t know what it is that you want or what you’re doing. Stop now before you’ve gone too far.

Emma looked up into eyes of steel blue now. Chris looked very serious. Slowly she continued unzipping the jacket. When it was open she slid her hands in to rest at Chris’s sides. I want you to be comfortable here. I want you to want to spend time here with me just as I want you to be here. I feel connected to you. I don’t know why. We don’t seem to have the same interests. We don’t have the same friends. But I like having you here. I feel comfortable having you here with me. Don’t you feel any connection to me?

More than you can imagine, and more than I want to admit. How about we just spend the evening together without any expectations, ok? Chris went over to the coat tree and took off the jacket hanging it up on the hook. In just a tee shirt and jeans, Chris went to help Emma with the salad and dinner.

Once seated, Emma decided to give Chris the good news she had to share. So a folder came across my desk today. Would you like me to tell you about it?

Sure, I think you want to tell me something, so let’s hear it.

Well you said you were interested in a piece of land in the woods with limited access. The government used to control property within one mile of the border with Canada. But now with all the electronic surveillances there isn’t the need to own and care for so much land. So the government is selling some of the properties. There is one in particular that I think you may be interested in.

Ok, you definitely have my attention now. Do you have any pictures of the property or layout of it? How much actual property are we talking about? Is there any water on it?

So now I have your interest. Emma was a little bit disappointed. I have some great information that we can look at after dinner if you would like. And if you don’t run away on me.

Why do you think I ran away from you last time?

I don’t know why you did, but I was a little disappointed that you did.

I’m sorry if I disappointed you Em. I just didn’t feel that the vibe in the room matched the feeling within me and I didn’t want to do or say the wrong thing. I have to be very guarded with you I think.

Really, why?

Just a feeling, I guess.

I’m sorry if I make you feel uncomfortable. That’s certainly not what I wanted to accomplish.

Just what is it that you do want to accomplish here between us? I really would like to know. Is this all about a real estate deal or is it something more?

Oh, it’s definitely more. I even considered not telling you about the property because I didn’t want to lose the chance of getting closer to you. Emma picked up her plate and brought it into the kitchen. She then made a cup of coffee. Would you like a cup of coffee with dessert?

She hadn’t seen Chris pick up the dishes and come into the kitchen. Standing right behind her, Chris whispered in her ear. Yes please, I would love a cup. Thank you Em. Chris’s arms slid around her waist and held her tight for a minute. Tell me if you want me to stop, I don’t want you to end up hating me.

She again turned and looked deep into eyes that held such depth but were shielded to her once more. Her hands climbed up to the shoulders attached to the arms still holding her by the waist. Do you think I don’t know? Of course I know, silly. She stretched up and kissed lips that wanted her so much. Her hands slid up into messy short hair, pulling Chris deeper into the kiss. Chris’s hands came around her back and pulled her in. Breaths grew deeper and shallower both, and hands roamed with tenderness. Finally Emma spoke softly. Our coffee is going to get cold, and I still have the packet to show you.

Chris was nuzzling her neck. Mmm... What coffee? What packet? Chris breathed her in deeply. With one more kiss, they separated. Ok, let’s take a look at what you found for me.

They brought their coffee and dessert over to the couch and sat. Emma pulled the folder from her briefcase and opened it on the coffee table. She showed Chris the location of the property, where the water was located and where the border was located. It was truly what Chris was looking for and now didn’t want.

Wow, you found it. You found what I wanted. You are amazing Em, and not just in real estate. How much do they want for the property?

"It’s being done by sealed bid. It hasn’t been advertised and the bids must be in by Sunday. So I would need to put one in for you by Friday in order to try for it. I spoke with my boss to get an idea about what a proper bid should be for an undeveloped piece of land with limited use. It can’t be subdivided and only one domicile can be constructed. I think a bid of $75,000 dollars should take

Reviews for The Culling

[Kat · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

it was okay. not my genre I suppose