The River Bend Quartet (Volumes 1 to 4 in the River Bend Chronicles romance series)

By Renee Kumor

Renee Kumor enthralls readers of her popular romance series -- The River Bend Chronicles -- drawing them into the lives and loves of the inhabitants of this all-too-familiar small town.
In the first book -- Small Town Secrets -- Kumor introduced us to Lynn Powers, a newcomer to town, and local police detective Dusty Reid. Then she tossed in some more fascinating characters, three murders, and a marriage. In the second entry -- Taking A Chance -- we followed the beginnings of the romance between Lynn and Dusty. In the third book -- ‘Tis the Season -- we celebrated the holidays with Lynn and her teenage son, as Dusty uncovered a series of events that mirrored the death of Lynn’s husband two years earlier. And in the fourth book -- An Act of Charity -- Lynn Powers and Dusty Reid have broken off their engagement to the consternation of both families. But then Lynn gets drawn into a murder that requires Dusty's intervention.
Now you can get all four at once in this new anthology The River Bend Quartet. This special bundle is a huge savings of 37% off the individual ebooks price (making them less than $2.50 each).

• Language: English
• Publisher: AbsolutelyAmazingEbooks.com
• Release date: Feb 13, 2016
• ISBN: 9781310203398

Renee Kumor

Renee Kumor has lived in North Carolina for over thirty years. The setting for the River Bend Chronicles series reflects her early life in Ohio and her later years in western North Carolina. She was a stay-at-home mom for several years developing a personal ethic of community service. Through the years as her children aged, she became active in the political and non-profit life of the community. She began writing a political opinion column for the local newspaper, but retired from writing when she announced her candidacy for local political office. After eight years as a county commissioner, she returned to non-profit service and began writing a monthly column for the newspaper on non-profit management and service issues. Renee has been married to her husband for forty-four years. They have four children and four grandchildren.

Book preview

SMALL TOWN SECRETS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Chapter Thirty-Three

Prologue

Small town life evolves in a pattern that matches the life in a river’s ecosystem. Some life forms live small short lives and support higher forms that are all part of the teeming life that bubbles and thrives in the picturesque serenity of the flowing water.

A small town like River Bend reflects the same sort of activity as that found in the river’s ecosystem. There are the less complex individuals who live out of the mainstream, in the dark places. Along the Strip in South End, the part of River Bend that supports the local barge traffic, can be found the dark places where people wonder how life passed them by and how they can become bigger players.

Louie Bones, leader of a small band of local misfits, said that very thing, We gotta find a way to get outta here and make it big someplace.

Vesta Tabor, a local working girl, said, You’re always talking. But I ain’t seen any ideas. Besides I got my work.

Work? laughed her cousin, Donnie Flores. She scowled at him as he continued, I ain’t worried. You always take care of us, Louie. You’ll figure out something.

He ain’t the only one with brains, said Wes Brandt, the fourth member of the hapless band, I got ideas, too.

I know you got ideas, said Louie. We all got ideas. Something’ll pop soon. I feel it.

So life in a small town eddies through the small bars and spills over the sidewalks, and like life in the river it rolls out into the current and into the sunshine.

CHAPTER ONE

"A brother? Lynn was angry. No, she was outraged. A brother!" She was furious.

I’m forty-three years old, she muttered. What do I do with a brother now? Where was he when I had to mow two acres of grass every summer? She looked out at the expanse of green running from the edge of her flowerbeds to the line of the trees that began the slope to the river. She punched holes in the soil and stuffed impatiens into the flowerbed.

Where was he when I had to chase rats out of the barn? She pounded the earth around the bedding plants then glanced toward the dilapidated structure behind the house.

Where was he when I had to clean all that trash out of the basement? She stabbed the dirt again with her garden trowel.

And where was he when Mother was dying?

Lynn stopped. She knew where he was. He was taking care of his own mother in her illness and coping with a crazy man he thought was his father. She felt her indignation fade as she thought about the differences in those growing up years. Her life had been a happy teenage movie here in The Heights. While in South End her half brother had struggled through his mother’s death and the unraveling of the secret of his real father.

Working in the garden gave Lynn time to think about all her father had told her this morning. She began to wonder what having a brother would mean. After her husband had died almost two years ago, she had returned to River Bend with her son to find a haven and to take care of her father, Jim, who had been diagnosed with cancer. Moving back to River Bend, she admitted to herself, had been the best choice for her and for her son. Now with Dad’s illness, it was the best choice for all of them.

But, a brother? she sighed.

The sun was warm and there was a refreshing breeze blowing up from the river. Lynn continued to work and think. I can do this. I took the risk coming back here. I’ll make this family work. She stuffed the impatiens into the hole.

Jim watched his daughter from his resting place on the kitchen porch. He could tell by the way she attacked the garden that she was wrestling with the news he had given her this morning. He planned to talk with her again after he rested. It was hard to admit to anyone, especially to himself, that he had to spend his energy wisely. More talk after dinner would be fine. Then he looked out again toward Lynn and saw the man who had entered the yard.

What’s that bastard want, thought the old man watching from the porch. Just because I’m sick I hope he doesn’t think the rules have changed. Shifting in his chair, Jim focused his attention on the man approaching his daughter.

Hi, Sunshine. The greeting startled Lynn deep in thought as she worked in her garden. The familiar, warm sound of Tom Brewer’s voice brought back so many high school memories.

Tom! I thought you might be in town for this reunion. Putting down her trowel Lynn rose to shake his hand. Twenty-five years takes my breath away. He ignored her hand and gave her a crushing hug, like those hugs after the football victories so many years ago.

You know if I’m in town I have to come here and say hello. He placed his hands on her shoulders and held her at arms length, surveying his old classmate. Lynn, you never age. Releasing her he pointed to his handsome head with its expensive haircut, Look at my gray hair and look at you.

Lynn removed her gardening cap and tousled her hair in his face. Go ahead, count the grays. I’m aging right along with you. Tom squinted at the rich brown hair as it tumbled from under her cap trying to find the elusive gray hair. Lynn glanced back at the kitchen porch where her father was resting. Dad’s up there and I know he’ll be delighted to see you.

How’s he doing? Mom told me he isn’t well. Tom waited as she covered her bedding plants to protect them from the sun.

His cancer treatment takes its toll, but we’ve been doing what we can to be helpful. She took his arm and walked toward the house.

We?

Me and my son, Jason.

I’m so sorry. I forgot. Mom did tell me about your husband’s death. What was it two, three years ago? Tom patted the hand gripping his arm.

It’ll be two years at Christmas. Jason’s fifteen and I brought him back here because I needed River Bend and Dad needed me.

I’m glad you find comfort here, said Tom. I think small towns are too confining. He took Lynn’s hand. I could never come back. Moved by Tom’s wistful confession, she squeezed his hand in return as they continued to the porch.

Dad, we have a visitor. Jim watched as his daughter settled Tom on the steps. Jim Hoefler still didn’t trust the man, even after twenty-five years. But as long as he kept his distance, Jim could be sociable.

Tom, is that you? asked Jim struggling to sit erect and look alert.

Mr. Hoefler. Tom sat on the steps close to Jim’s chair.

You here for that reunion? Jim asked. His face was pale and his lips stretched across his teeth as he tried to smile. The whole town’s talking about the high school class we all thought would never amount to anything. The trouble you youngsters caused around here. But, by golly, some of you have done quite well, and maybe not the ones we expected.

That’s right. You were district attorney back then, said Tom.

Jim caught Tom’s eye to let him know nothing had changed; Lynn was still off limits. Tom moved his gaze to Lynn. Do you remember when Veal and those boys from South End tried to get us to race with your little VW? Tom did a pantomime of drag racing, twisting his hands on an imaginary steering wheel and making sounds like a revving motor. Any of them still around?

Veal is still around, but we call him Will now, she said. Her half-brother’s name was Wilhelm Zubov. The youngsters at school had nicknamed him Veal in an imitation of the way his mother had pronounced his name. He’s a successful businessman.

Yeah? What’s he do?

He has a small factory in South End that makes specialty parts for cars. Tom and Lynn enjoyed the moment as Lynn filled him in on gossip about other classmates. He’s not the only small business man in town from our class. Lynn listed familiar names. As you can see, she said, we have a good number of community business leaders in our class, but many of the kids who went off to college never came back.

Will is going to have to help me, thought Jim. I can’t lie around here like some goddamn Camille waiting for my last gasp and worry this bum will try one of his scams. As Lynn talked of their friends, both men endured the sociable charade for the brief visit.

When Tom stood to go, Lynn walked him out to the street. I’ll get back before Friday, he promised, then he walked down the sidewalk toward his parents’ home.

Go visit some of your old girl friends. I’ll see you Friday night.

Lynn returned to the porch speaking to her father as she climbed the stairs. Dad, I hope you enjoyed that visit. Do you want to nap now? He was already asleep in the deep chair among the overstuffed cushions. She covered him with a light blanket and went back to her garden.

Thinking about the past and reviewing her new relationship with Will made the work do itself. Before she realized it, she had planted all the flowers and cleaned the last of the vines from the garden trellis. Resting for a moment, she thought, this is such an ordinary garden – no dramatic statues or fountains or boulders. Just flowers and places for small animals and birds to nest and feed. Dad said that a garden should be a place to encourage. She had never understood what was to be encouraged, but this spring it appeared that it was to encourage her.

Lynn enjoyed working in the flower gardens which were tucked between the house and a hundred yards or so of lawn that sloped to a line of trees that dropped abruptly toward the old river road and to the river. The yard had one of the best views in River Bend. All that grass had been her mowing challenge as a youngster. She had survived the challenge, so this summer Jason would learn the secrets of the ancient riding mower. Staring out at the new grass Lynn tried to imagine the way it had looked when that area had been a pasture for her Grandmother Hoefler’s milk cow. Dad had told her that chickens had roosted in a coop along the outside wall of the barn. She looked hard and couldn’t find any traces of a hen house along the wall where her clematis climbed.

This neighborhood was called The Heights because the homes were built on a bluff above the river, above the commerce that thrived at the bend in the river. At this end of River Bend, The Heights defined one of the town boundaries.

While Lynn worked in her garden, Jim slept on the kitchen porch, the private sheltered porch, off the kitchen and dining room. It had always been a special place to Lynn. She remembered sitting there with her mother who had died twenty-five years ago, just three weeks after Lynn’s high school graduation. And Friday night was the big reunion - so many memories!

CHAPTER TWO

Piper Hanby pushed through the doors late Friday afternoon into the Philanthropies office with the energy and enthusiasm that governed everything she did. With her short blonde curls and her pixie frame, she was the physical opposite of her friend, Lynn, who had towered over Piper since first grade. Piper, a principal at a local elementary school, had been Lynn’s best friend since the first day they met in kindergarten. Hey, greeted Piper as she entered the office and flopped in a chair. Only three more weeks until summer vacation.

I was just thinking about our reunion tonight. Lynn was always delighted when Piper dropped by the Philanthropies office at the end of the day. Lynn was the executive director of the River Bend Philanthropies, a community granting and fund raising organization. The two women always found things to talk about in these late afternoon office chats and both enjoyed time that wasn’t devoted to work or family. In Piper’s case, she was a divorced mother with three sons.

We were talking about that at school today. Piper moved closer to Lynn’s desk and rested her elbows on the edge. My cafeteria manager and two of my teachers will be there. We were talking about who we wanted to see.

Who wants to see? asked Lynn, still lost in her own thoughts.

Everyone wants to see someone different. But mostly we all want to see old boyfriends. Piper raised her eyebrows at Lynn.

Lynn frowned at her. I’m not interested in seeing any old boy friends. Why would I?

The girls were saying they might look up some old boyfriends tonight. Piper sat back in her chair and threw her hand in the air. You know, seeing what you missed, or starting over, or giving someone a second look. Or something.

Are you thinking about meeting up with an old boyfriend? Lynn waited for an answer. No response came so she continued. Who would you look for? And why? I mean we dated all the same guys, and I can’t image which one of them would interest you.

I’m just saying – I might like to have a guy in my life.

After all this time? asked Lynn.

My boys are getting older. I could use, well, I could use what you could use. I guess what we all could use. Piper threw herself back in her chair.

I’ve never heard you talk like this, said Lynn. Is this something new?

I think the discussion with the girls at school today got me thinking, said Piper, shaking her head of short, blonde curls.

About what?

Piper rolled her eyes and asked, Besides sex? Lynn laughed as Piper continued, I’d like to be part of a couple again. I keep thinking that the boys will all be out of the house within the next few years and I’ll be alone.

Lynn picked up a piece of paper from her desk. Nathan Taft.

You think I should date Nathan Taft? Piper was puzzled at that suggestion. He’s a bit older.

No. Lynn moved the note to her calendar and clipped it to a page. I’m supposed to schedule a meeting about some donations from Mr. Taft. Lynn refocused on the conversation. So you’re looking for a man. We dated some nice guys in high school, offered Lynn. They were all gentlemen.

I’m not looking for a gentleman. Then Piper gasped and put her hand over her mouth, reminding Lynn of the pixie who always seemed to get them into trouble years ago. I mean, I’m looking for, well, I’m not sure, but I’ll know it when I see him.

Tom Brewer came by the house the other day. Lynn sat back in her chair and ran her fingers through her dark brown hair.

He’s not what I’m looking for, stated Piper.

I know what you mean and I don’t know why. Lynn reported on his visit with her father. He’s handsome as ever, but I just want to keep my distance.

I know, and I just love his parents. Piper studied Lynn for a moment. There’s a man on your mind.

Lynn choked in surprise. I don’t know what you mean.

Liar, stated Piper. But I’ll wait until you want to talk about him.

River Bend High School alumni had been arriving in town for several days. This afternoon men straggled into Will Zubov’s office, a natural gathering place since Will had always been the leader of the kids from South End. Old stories were trotted out, and age added a certain nostalgic humor to things that would have been serious incidents twenty-five years ago. The old friends sitting in Will’s office laughed as they recounted tales from high school, always involving football, cars and girls.

South End was the district of River Bend that was created by the river’s bend. It defined the southern boundary as The Heights defined the north. South End was the poor side of town. It was the place for industry and the docks for river traffic. It had been home to the industrial laborers and day help for River Bend’s affluent households. Time had changed nothing - same poverty, new generation. Industries had moved on; river traffic was reduced from what it had been in the boom years, and household help was no longer in great demand. The men sitting in Will Zubov’s office today were the heirs of South End history.

You know, Will, said Miguel, the former running back who made some great plays assisted by Will’s blocking, you must be the only one still hanging around here after all this time.

There are a lot of us still here. Will settled his big, muscular frame more comfortably into his chair. It’s just that if I didn’t hang with someone in high school, I don’t hang with them now in my old age. Will paused to be sure he had his listeners’ attention. I see Lynn Hoefler a lot, he looked at them with a twinkle in his hazel eyes, now that I’m a community leader. The men laughed making remarks about his leadership. Hey, gimme a little respect, Will teased his friends.

You and everyone’s favorite cheerleader? They all laughed again.

Listen, Lynn’s a widow and I work with her on this River Bend Philanthropies board. You know, we collect money for charity in town. The group continued random comments about community leaders and cheerleaders.

Take it easy, you guys, spoke up Puff, the nickname he had earned as the smallest member of the old gang. Now he was a lawyer in the state capitol and still as slim as he had been at graduation. Will has a good statewide reputation as a leader and generous donor. There are a lot of local and state politicians who have him on speed dial.

The men in the office considered the statement. Not all of them were as successful as Will and Puff, but this wasn’t a time to keep score about success. It was time to enjoy one another. Miguel brought up a story of some graduation antics, Talk about local politicians, do you guys remember . . . and he went into a raucous tale.

Will was glad Miguel changed the subject. He preferred to keep his wealth and community position out of any discussion this weekend. As Miguel wrapped up his story the conversation returned to football, cars and girls.

Will’s office cleared out by late afternoon so the guys could return to their homes or hotels to prepare for the reunion that evening. As Will cleared his desk, a small time contractor knocked at the door. When he looked up and saw Louie Bones, Will knew that the term, contractor, didn’t fit. Louie ran errands and did odd jobs for Will’s company.

I finished taking that stuff to the landfill. Louie wanted to be paid. If you got the cash – He didn’t finish, he just stood at the desk.

Will took out his wallet and scanned Louie’s paper recording the charges. When you finish that GED, you know I have a place for you.

Louie shrugged, Yeah, I’m workin’ on it. Will knew that was a lie. He had been trying to help Louie for ten years, ever since his old high school teacher, Gabe McElvoy, suggested Louie was a smart kid, but needed to be encouraged. The money changed hands and Louie was gone.

On this relaxed Friday afternoon, Will took time to admire his office: the fine, dark wood desk, the up-to-date technology and the sophisticated touches of art and lighting that a decorator had added. The understated masculine room reflected his success and the importance of his company. He laughed at the thought - Will Zubov in his business office, getting ready to attend his 25th high school reunion and preparing for his company to go public by the end of the year. It had been a challenging and difficult twenty-five years and he had a lot of people to thank. There were many who had trusted enough in his ideas and skills to invest in the early days of startup. He was getting ready to make them all very comfortable if the public offering was successful.

Will watched the late spring afternoon sun stretch across his office and thought about all the stories the guys had shared. He laughed to himself at how history changes with time and age. He didn’t remember the drama or the antics in the same way the others did. He did remember hard work and loneliness and feeling as though he didn’t belong anywhere. In the quiet building he sat alone and continued to examine his past and some of the influences for good or ill that had directed his life.

One thought led to another, and he wondered how Jim Hoefler was. Will hadn’t seen Lynn since Wednesday when Jim had orchestrated the big announcement. Lynn’s face during the discussion of his paternity revealed some of her thoughts. Will had seen surprise and, maybe, annoyance, but he hadn’t seen fury or revulsion. He recalled their private conversation out in her garden. They had stood there for a time not knowing what to say or do.

How long have you known? she asked staring out at the trees.

Since my mother’s death. It was the simple truth. Just before our senior year. She knew she was dying and told me that I had a different father. He turned to face Lynn. She said that if her husband found out he would make trouble and she couldn’t protect me. Will shrugged. She told me everything.

Why didn’t you ever say anything to me before this? She continued to stare out across the garden.

You heard Jim, your mother was dying then and it might have upset her.

No, I mean after that, Lynn challenged him. I’ve been in and out of town for the past twenty-five years, at least once a year. Will recalled her standing there, arms crossed in front of her, demanding a reply.

You have to ask Jim. Will shrugged. I would’ve been delighted to tell you. It would have made my life less lonely.

That honest statement had brought a tear to Lynn’s eye. Will had taken both of her hands in his and said, It’s been a long time since I’ve had any kind of family and I really do owe Jim so much.

Will brought himself back to the present as he stood up from his desk. Reliving that quiet moment with Lynn made him think about his new family. After twenty-five years he had a family again. He promised himself he would do whatever was needed to please Lynn and make his new family work.

Maybe he should stop by The Heights on his way to their high school reunion.

CHAPTER THREE

At River Bend High School, the faculty meeting was ending on this sunny Friday afternoon. Summer was almost here, the current Silver Anniversary reunion class was due in town this weekend, and graduation would be in two weeks. Jane Brunfeld, a formidable English teacher, was doing a fair imitation of the remarks alumni would make as they wandered the halls. She had staff laughing as she remarked about the small halls and the ancient bathrooms. There would also be comments about how life was harder in the old days and kids were nicer and more innocent. Jane, of course, felt that the only problem was in the alumni themselves. Many of them had not risen to their promise, but some would surprise her with their accomplishments. Of course, most would be average parents working hard trying to raise the next generation, a job harder than any other.

Jane walked out of the meeting with her oldest friend, Gabe McElvoy. Gabe taught math with the same gusto that Jane attacked English. After Jane’s divorce almost twenty years ago, they had become good friends. Nothing more had developed as far as the town could see, but whose business was it anyway. They lived separately, shared holidays when in town, and never seemed to step beyond the bounds of propriety that a small community would allow.

When Gabe and Jane started their affair, times had been different. There had existed a certain code of conduct, a community standard that frowned on illicit teacher relationships. They had not felt that they could live in an open relationship in River Bend. At first it was because Jane had a messy divorce and was challenged to keep her life simple so that child custody was never an issue. Then it was time for Gabe to care for aging parents. Now Jane was becoming a grandparent, acquiring another level of responsibility.

She smiled at Gabe as they walked casually along with nothing but warmth and companionship between them. Jane thought, as she looked at Gabe through the shade patterns of the afternoon light, how they had managed a loving and warm relationship all these years was nobody’s business. She forgot that knowledge and judgment moves quickly in a small town. Everyone knew about the relationship, but everyone thought it was no one’s business.

What are your predictions for the returning class? she asked. Even her gray hair didn’t diminish Jane’s youthful attitude and vitality.

Well, we know a lot about those who stayed in town. Gabe carried himself as many older coaches did, husky and muscular with a pigeon-toed gait. I wonder how many know about the position Will Zubov holds in this town. He certainly wasn’t anyone’s first pick for a successful businessman and inventor. He gave Jane that teasing smile that she loved so. Maybe it was something we did!

Jane responded in mock offense. Don’t you think we teachers make a difference in kids’ lives? They walked on a little further. Then, You’re right. I guessed he would be some store manager or head mechanic, but a leading inventor and designer of hi-tech automotive parts! I don’t even know what he makes.

That’s OK, honey. Then Gabe stopped and looked around. No one was nearby to have heard his affectionate slip. They laughed at this ingrained guilt response and he continued, He knows what he’s doing, and we’re getting rich.

We are?

Yes, you and I invested in his company years ago.

I did?

Yes, you put up $10,000.

And where did I get money to do that?

I don’t know, it was your money. He grinned again. Well, maybe I helped. I didn’t want to risk $20,000 of my money, so I put your name on half.

But you still risked your money!

No I didn’t. We’ve made money. And Will thinks that you’re one of his supporters, a silent partner and friend. That kind of good will is worth a lot as we get older. He winked.

Gabe, she laughed. This sort of gives me a new image of myself. Mogul, venture capitalist, wow! I think I need a new outfit.

Just think of it this way. Retiring in a few years with a teacher’s pension and what other money we’ve saved and invested will make a comfortable old age.

How comfortable?

We’ll be able to do all the traveling we’ve talked about and a lot of other things as well. He looked at her with a serious, but loving, gaze. I mean it Jane, we’ll have plenty of money when Will’s company goes public. We can be an official couple and we–

Are you proposing, again?

Yes.

She was silent for a few moments then turned to him, Yes, she said and walked ahead.

Louie Bones left Will’s office and headed to the South End Strip, an area of bars and drugs and the nightlife that was every bit a part of his life as his errands and odd jobs. He picked up his two friends and they settled in at their usual bar to act as enforcement and protection for one of the South End working girls. Signs are all over town, announced Vesta, the working girl, another one of them high school reunions. It happens every year.

Can you go if you didn’t graduate? asked Donnie Flores, her cousin.

Why not? After fifty-years who remembers? said Wes, the meanest of the bunch.

I think you could go if you wanted to see anyone, Louie said. Any of you got someone you want to see from high school? They all shook their heads. So here they sat working the nightlife in South End. Many of their friends who had stayed in school were doing much the same - sex, drugs, petty theft. They didn’t charge higher rates because they had a diploma, nor get better deals in stolen property, so Louie and his friends felt superior - they hadn’t wasted those extra years sitting in school.

In The Heights, Lynn was cleaning up after dinner. Jim and her son had been fed. Jason agreed to stay in this evening along with a friend to play computer games and keep his grandfather company.

Lynn was looking forward to this reunion. High school had been fun, and visiting with Tom Brewer earlier in the week had reminded her just how much. She hoped her son would enjoy his time in River Bend. There were so many memories here. Years of laughter. The sorrow of the year Mother became ill and died. Those days had been challenging. Tears laced every event. It had been a difficult decision to leave Dad and go off to college, but Mother had made her promise that her life would go on as they had planned.

There was a knock at the kitchen door and in came Will. Hi, Lynn. Am I interupting dinner? He stood, unfamiliar in his new role. I came by to see if you wanted a ride to the party tonight.

You know you’re welcome to drop in and eat with us when you’re in the neighborhood. Lynn wrestled with herself as she tried to assume an appropriate attitude with her new brother. She wanted him to feel welcome, but she wasn’t sure just how welcome.

Will picked up a towel and began to dry some dishes. Thanks.

Do you think we should say anything at the reunion tonight? she asked. Besides – what do we say? Then she laughed, Would anyone believe us? Lynn noticed her son looking at them as they worked in the kitchen.

In response to Jason’s puzzled stare she said, Let me introduce you to your Uncle Will. Grandpa has asked that we add him to our family. Lynn hoped this explanation was adequate for tonight. She had no desire to go into details now. Will held out his hand.

Jason took it and mumbled a greeting.

Lynn asked him, What time is Doyle coming over? Jason’s friend Doyle, Piper’s son, would help sit with Jim tonight while she attended the reunion.

He said about seven.

Lynn checked her watch. I’ll get ready while you two entertain Dad. She left the kitchen as Will and Jason studied one another.

Who is that guy? Doyle asked after Will and Lynn had gone.

Someone my mom says is my uncle. I don’t know what she’s talking about.

I wish my mom had some guy in her life, even an uncle, then she wouldn’t be bugging me all the time to fix things and carry out the trash. Doyle was the middle of Piper’s three sons.

Well, I don’t know if this guy’s going to be a trash carrier. I’m not in the loop on their relationship. Jason looked out the window at the man he had just met. The tall, muscular, ex-athlete kind of guy helped Lynn get into an expensive little sports car. All Mom told me was that Grandpa, they turned and looked at the sleeping man, wants him in the family. They lost interest in the conversation as the game booted up.

Over in the recliner, Jim smiled to himself. Telling Lynn had been a good idea. It seemed that she and Will were working on this new relationship and had even introduced the topic to Jason. A sick old man needed family around him, as much family as he could find. This would be a good family. Will can help with Jason, thought Jim, and Lynn won’t have to face my death alone.

Sitting quietly as the boys played, Jim thought about those women, the mothers of his children. Lynn’s mother, Helene, had been everything a young up and coming attorney needed, a well connected, well educated, charming hostess with wit and tact. They had had a good life. There had been one lapse and he hoped it never showed in his feelings for her.

Will’s mother, Irena, on the other hand, was fiery and emotional. Jim would have enjoyed the gymnastics of sex with her more often than that one time, but it had given him a perspective on love. Irena made it clear that she had no intention of continuing any relationship with Jim once she had thanked him for helping her brother.

Over the years Irena had aged as hardworking women do. She never mentioned the mean reality of her marriage. She always made certain that Jim knew that her son studied hard and encouraged Jim to create opportunities for him. Will had received scholarships to summer camps, won raffles that awarded him bicycles and TV’s, many of the things Irena could not afford. She always had a scheme to get Will something without it leading back to Jim.

What Jim didn’t understand was why Irena had never destroyed the evidence of his paternity. Maybe it was there so Will would find it. She may not have counted on her husband searching through her papers. Well, Jim’s kids were straight on the relationship, even if Jason was a little confused. Jim chuckled to himself as he wondered how Lynn would explain the situation. He might have to lend a hand. He had talked with his children, he could also talk to his grandson.

He smiled again as he thought of Helene as she always said, James, are we trying to play God again? You know how the devil is always in the details. They would laugh and he would continue sharing his plans for dealing with another client.

CHAPTER FOUR

River Bend was a small town, and any gathering was always low-key and casual. There was no opera house, no convention center, no fancy hotel with meeting rooms. The twenty-five year reunion was being held in the high school gym. The class had gone to proms there, held football rallies, sock hops and memorial services for lost class members. The fifty-year reunion class, however, was having a sit down dinner at the River Bend Country Club.

Lynn and Will walked into the gym greeting old friends and being introduced to spouses. They acknowledged faculty members who had elected to join the party. Gabe McElvoy waved and whistled until Will saw him in the corner by the wrestling mats. They turned in his direction and were soon joined by Jane Brunfeld. Coming together they all spoke at once.

Jim told her, whispered Will. She knows.

Gabe shouted, She said yes, holding Jane’s hand up in celebration. They looked at one another as all the news settled, then congratulated each other on new milestones. As more people poured into the gym, the couples soon separated and began the challenge of trying to identify all the adults in the room.

Will, Lynn poked him, isn’t that the guy who used to always be combing that long hair of his?

Will looked at the bald man in the tight fitting suit. I don’t look that bad, do I? He tried to straighten his shirt and calm his unruly light brown hair.

You still look the same. Lynn looked him up and down. Maybe a few more pounds. Will sucked in his stomach.

Not as many as him, I hope. Will pointed to a portly former member of the marching band.

I think he swallowed his drum, Lynn observed, surprised at the change in the former musician. Will directed her over to the bar for a beer before she could be heard making any more indiscreet comments.

If there are this many changes after twenty-five years, what will we all look like at our fiftieth reunion? Lynn asked Will as he handed her a beer.

You’ll look just the same. He studied at her. "Slim and, what, five-six?

Seven. Lynn seemed to be flattered by Will’s comment.

But I think I see some gray hiding in that brown hair. He grinned at his sister.

She clicked her beer bottle to his and said, I have to get to work.

As the executive director of the River Bend Philanthropies, Lynn was committed to talk to alumni about the athletic endowment. She took her beer and went to work, talking to old friends, asking them to consider helping the high school meet some fundraising goals. Lynn knew that many of her former classmates were already supporting colleges, their children’s schools, their churches, special causes and the search for cures. All they could say was no. She was a fundraising professional so she had to ask. Moving through the crowd she bumped into Tom Brewer.

Lynn, he gasped in surprise, I’m sorry that I never got back to see you and Jim. How did you get here? I hope you didn’t come alone.

No, she said, I came with Will. She noticed a look in Tom’s eyes, and was about to say they were not an item, when she followed his gaze. Piper Hanby had just walked in, alone. She was still as beautiful as she had been twenty-five years ago. People turned to look at her and to wave and smile. Everyone always smiled at and with Piper. She was warm and kind and even at this age, appeared somewhat of an innocent with her pixie short curls and her ballet dancer’s grace.

Did my mother tell me she’s divorced? asked Tom as he put on his best sympathetic face and waited for Lynn to give him details on Piper’s availability.

Yes, she is, said Lynn. It’s been about ten years. Lynn didn’t want to talk more about Piper’s marriage and ex-husband - all the years of his affairs and all the years of his addiction were behind her now. Piper had spent these last years making a life for herself and her sons, without any help from her ex, but with a lot of help from her friends in River Bend.

What does she do? Tom asked, his eyes following Piper as she walked among her old friends.

She’s the principal at Rathborn Elementary.

The one in South End? Tom asked craning to see where Piper had gone.

Yes, she’ll see many of her parents here this evening. Lynn waved to her and Piper came over to greet them.

Piper, it’s good to see the most beautiful grad in our class. Tom was gracious but a little too eager as Piper hugged Lynn.

Don’t I get a hug too? he asked, moving closer to Piper as Lynn watched his unctuous behavior. Piper gave him a brief hug which Tom tried to turn into a full embrace. Piper easily moved on to the group of friends beyond his arms, maneuvering Tom into the group and herself away from his embrace. Lynn watched the maneuver with respect.

Will came up behind Lynn, How that little girl manages to handle men as she does amazes me.

Lynn thought about Will’s statement. Do you mean that she’s rebuffed you, too?

Will shook his head, I didn’t even have the confidence to try. You and Piper were the untouchable girls of my dreams. Lynn raised an eyebrow. I mean, before I knew who you, who we, who – Will quit speaking and looked over at Piper. Lynn followed his gaze and watched Piper as she walked around the room, greeting and smiling, yet keeping to herself.

≈≈≈

Tom, recovering from Piper’s rejection, moved toward Will and Lynn as she was saying, Excuse me, but I’m still working. Lynn continued her walk through the gym to talk about the Philanthropies’ athletic endowment program.

Tom grabbed a beer off the bar and took a swallow as he watched Lynn’s progress through the crowd. Then he turned to Will, Are you two becoming an item after all these years?

No, Lynn’s just my friend. We work together on some community projects, replied Will. Although they had played on several sport teams together, Tom had always kept his distance from the poor kids and he still wasn’t interested in any discussion with a poor classmate. Tom slapped Will on the back and moved toward some of his old friends.

Tommy, called one of Brewer’s old teammates. You finally going to get somewhere with Lynn?

Or Piper? asked another. You’re the only guy in our class who never tried to date them.

I didn’t have to. Tom breezed into the discussion. I lived in the neighborhood. I just walked next door.

You’re full of it, one fellow said. He called the rest of the guys together. Did you see how Piper gave him the slip a minute ago? There was a roar of laughter. Twenty-five years and next door, you still got nowhere."

Tom controlled his anger at being the butt of a joke, forcing himself to laugh with the group. You guys got me, he agreed. They know a bum when they see one. He looked at his old teammates. That’s why they never dated any of you. Another round of guffaws.

≈≈≈

In another part of the gym, several women were watching Will and discussing his appeal. He’s really rich now, I tell you, reported one woman removing her glasses to appear at her best advantage. He has this big factory and a little sports car.

Who would’ve thought? asked another, trying to get his attention by tossing her blonde hair about and laughing loudly. And every time he came near me, I ran into the girls’ room. She licked her scarlet lips as she studied Will. I didn’t want anyone to see me talking with a guy from South End. The others nodded.

I guess, said the only woman attorney at the twenty-five year class reunion, we should’ve been more welcoming.

I’d welcome him now, said a recent divorcee with frosted hair and bright blue eye shadow as she checked the unbuttoned condition of her blouse.

So why’s he with Lynn? asked one of the out-of-towners with a waistline that suggested at least five pregnancies and a hairstyle that advertised do-it-yourself.

I think he works with Lynn in her job, replied one of the local grads who was wearing a short top to show off her gym-sculpted midriff. They raise money for charity. You know that thing Lynn’s talking about to everyone. They watched as Lynn and Will exchanged a comment with Piper.

Looks like Will can have his pick of the perfect girls. The blonde woman ran a brightly manicured finger along her low neckline. Conversation continued as the women discussed all of the faults of the perfect girls.

As the evening progressed Will found his old gang drinking beer and listening to Lynn’s speech about making a donation to the athletic endowment. You had to hand it to her, he thought, nothing stopped Lynn in her quest for funds. He looked at the faces of his friends. They might not have a lot to give, but with his help Lynn would get some money for her project. Will walked up and said, I have a deal with these guys, Lynn, I’ll match anything they give you. The guys looked at him and then at her.

Give me one of those cards. A burly ex-jock took a card as he said to the others, If it gets Will’s money, I’ll see what my wife says. Several of the other men took cards and moved to find their wives.

Thank you. She held Will’s arm. You didn’t have to do that. We get enough of your money.

Yes, but if I have money in the pot, these guys will come through with something. And, Will continued, Miguel doesn’t know, but he’s going to come into some money soon.

Lynn looked puzzled as Will went on, Miguel’s mother gave me money in one of my darkest days. I never got to repay her. One thing and another, fifteen years later and I’m about to pay off. It’s money that belongs to Miguel and his family.

And Miguel doesn’t know? Lynn raised her eyebrows.

I don’t think so. Will watched his old friend across the room. Maybe I’ll tell him tomorrow. With a wink at Lynn, Will added, This is the weekend for sharing old secrets. They moved on to the food tables. Pepperoni pizza kept warm in a cafeteria oven while hamburgers were made to order, grease spattering everyone. They were all sixteen again.

≈≈≈

As Tom stood quietly watching his old classmates, several of his former admirers studied him. They sat at a table sharing stories about the old days. I can’t believe I ever wanted to date Tom, observed one stylishly dressed woman, my husband may not be as handsome, but I can trust him.

Ain’t that the truth, agreed her friend who had been voted most likely to become a fashion model. Tom sure got around. I hear that he bedded everyone in South End.

Not everyone, sniffed a former South End alumna wearing expensive clothes and jewelry, who had married her way to Main Street respectability. The fashion model shifted uncomfortably, embarrassed at her comment. The South End alumna explained, My husband says Tom came by the office the other day trying to sell him some investment opportunity. She was pleased at the group’s interest as she continued, He wanted us to invest twenty-thousand in some deal.

Did you? The question came from a former hall monitor.

The South End alumna, as if she enjoyed reminding her classmates of her husband’s wealth, said, We don’t need his advice. She moved and her rings caught the light. My husband says Tom needs money. We don’t trust him.

There are some South End girls who might listen to his hard sell. They all laughed at the bawdy comment as they looked at Mona Stitz, a South End girl who had a long history with Tom Brewer. Mona heard the nearby laughter. She moved toward a group of guys and joined them, sitting at their table and allowing her skirt to ride high on her thigh. Once she settled herself, she draped her arm around the shoulder of one of the husbands of the laughing ladies.

CHAPTER FIVE

There was something about Lynn and Will, thought Tom, as his gaze kept returning to them. They looked at ease with one another, almost like they might be dating. Why would she take up with a South End kid? He should step in and offer himself as an option. Then Tom reconsidered. Lynn was the only person in his life who was true. She never asked anything of him. Nor did she ever hurt him, leave him out, or make him feel unwelcome. Tom thought, I owe her for that. With a silent salute to the new couple, he moved on.

Settling in a quiet corner he looked over the crowd, assessing the possibilities. Tom had returned for this event to see if there might be approachable classmates who had investment funds. He needed some cash and quick. His wealth management firm was going under, clients wanted to cash out, and the feds were looking into his books. Nothing seemed to be going his way. Fresh cash would allow him to fill some holes and maybe get himself out of the country. He had put a little money offshore, and he had a condo in a Mexican resort.

Tom smirked. Three months in Mexico, then a new location, new company name. By then Mom and Pop Brewer would be willing to help with some funds, just to get him back into the country. Of course he would have to construct a story that didn’t reflect his current dilemma. His parents believed all his stories. He’d come up with something.

Glancing around the gym again, he thought that there had to be someone he could work on, if not money, maybe a quick hookup before he left town. He surveyed the gym crowd, scowling as he watched all the middle-aged goofs trying to relive their miserable teen years.

Studying the crowd, Tom mentally checked off the former classmates he had already approached. He had tried to keep it a very soft sell, but no one had been interested. As he thought about his next move, his eyes rested on Piper.

Piper, he called, are we going to dance before this evening is over? Tom turned on the charm.

Of course, Tom. Piper excused herself from the parent of one of her students, and Tom led her to the dance floor, drifting to the far edge of the dancing crowd. He moved her into a corner and insinuated himself close to her, running a hand along her throat. Pinning her body to the wall he tried to kiss her, but she turned her head. He grasped her chin and held her steady as he pressed into her while his other hand toyed with the buttons of her blouse.

Tom? Piper tried to get him to release her, but he was determined. Her cell phone rang, attracting the attention of other couples. In the seconds that he was distracted she ducked under his arm and walked away, talking into her phone. Tom followed, listening to her conversation.

Yes, Doyle, you can stay overnight. Do me a favor and run home to walk the dog before you boys settle in. There was conversation on the other end. Piper frowned. Just don’t stay out too late, Lynn’s counting on you boys staying with Jim. Another comment from Doyle. OK, then, I’ll see you tomorrow. Good night, honey.

Gee, Piper, I’m sorry, Tom placed an arm gently on her shoulder, I should have realized that I’m not dealing with some high school girl but with a single parent with all those family responsibilities. But you’re still the most beautiful woman in the gym. Tom talked with an alluring whisper, trying to salvage something of this evening.

A number of curious classmates were watching them. To defuse the dramatic scene, Piper led Tom over to the food table with its large crowd, as she asked in a level and controlled voice, What are you doing these days?

Tom, deciding to follow Piper’s lead for now, took the opportunity to describe his work, at least the way it would operate, if all were on the up and up. He talked about helping old widows secure their investments. There’s nothing more satisfying than helping someone reach their investment goals. Tom got starry-eyed. When an old woman hugs you because her grandson can go to college, Tom shook his head, it’s uplifting.

Piper told Tom about an unscrupulous manager who had tried to bed her and take outrageous fees for consultations. If Jim Hoefler hadn’t stepped in, I don’t know what would have happened. I got rid of that man and began to study financial management for myself.

Tom was all ears. Maybe this was the opportunity he was looking for. Just twenty thousand this weekend would go a long way to set him up in Mexico by Wednesday. Piper, if you want to see a small portion of your money grow more rapidly, you know, while you keep the bulk in conservative funds, I may have some ideas for you. He took her arm to guide her away from the food table. She hesitated, but Tom said, No, I promise, no more high school antics. I want to talk adult business. I have some information in my car that you can study and we can talk about before I leave town.

OK, she agreed, why don’t you come by the house in the morning?

It’s a deal. Until then you can, and he waved his arm out into the gym, continue this walk down memory lane.

≈≈≈

Thump, thump, thump - the unmistakable sound of a basketball bouncing on the gym floor. Conversation stopped. Everyone looked for the source. Marcie, a former star of the girls’ basketball team, was standing near the locker room door. Look what I found. She bounced the ball again and poised for a shot at a nearby basket. The shot went in and the crowd roared, just like the old days. The crowd, the roar, the bounce - the scent of victory stirred all the old players. Several assembled under the basket. They passed the ball around, took some shots, blocked some others and were soon talking about a game. Someone brought beers for everyone as they planned.

Guys against girls, was the proposal that got everyone’s attention.

Full court?

Hell, yes.

Marcie looked around to see who had said that. The men didn’t look as athletic as they had twenty five years ago. My team can handle full court, she boasted. Can you guys?

Hell, yes, again.

As the old players sorted out, Marcie was dismayed. There are only four of us from my old team. She scanned the gym searching for a creditable woman to help the team.

Behind Marcie a voice whispered, Pick Lynn. Marcie knew the sound of her boss’s voice. She was a production supervisor at Will’s shop.

Hey, Lynn, Marcie called, You can be our fifth. Marcie bounced the ball a few times to give Lynn a chance to think over the invitation.

Lynn was startled by the attention. She hadn’t been on the varsity team.

I’ll put up one hundred dollars for the athletic fund to see you play, called out Will as he handed his money to Piper. Others came forward and handed Piper bills. Lynn’s cheeks burned scarlet. She could feel all the mix of emotions of the last few days focusing on her new brother. Somehow, he would pay for this humiliation. As she walked out into the center of the floor, her classmates cheered.

There’re all sorts of uniforms and equipment in the locker rooms, said Marcie. We meet back here in fifteen minutes ready to play. With that four women followed Marcie into the girls’ locker room. The men jogged to the boys’ locker room amid chants from their old fans.

While searching for clothing and gear in the locker room, the women could hear the crowd noise rising. The fans were ready to cheer for a game. I haven’t played in years, pleaded Lynn.

Neither have they, said Marcie as she nodded in the direction of the boys’ locker room. We’ll be fine, especially if it’s full court.

I can’t play without my sport bra, one of the women whined.

They, Marcie nodded toward the other locker room again, won’t have their under things either. Her team laughed.

The women got dressed and formed a circle to listen to their coach. Lynn, you bring the ball down unless someone starts to give you trouble. Once you cross the centerline pass to whoever’s free. If you get stuck, one of us will get to you. They all put their hands in the team clasp, cheered and ran from the locker room.

The crowd rose to its feet as the women ran onto the court. The men followed. They had not been as lucky at finding clothing that fit. A middle-aged man is much wider than a sixteen year old. The fans went wild with laughter. The teams met at center court, the ball went up, and the game began.

Everyone ran at a fast pace for the first minute, then the game started to move at a rate more compatible with a forty-year old’s stamina. Baskets, foul shots. One of the faculty members kept score while another refereed. Much to everyone’s surprise, it was a close game. Then the men decided to put on the pressure.

Will guarded Lynn. At each turnover, he was all over her. She had more and more difficulty getting the ball down court, and had to rely on her teammates to help her out. Finally Will had her pinned in the top corner and she passed the ball between his legs. Wild cheering from the women in the crowd. To get even for that antic, Will started tugging at her shirt and keeping his hand in her face. Lynn’s anger was visible as the game progressed.

The fans were jumping up and down on the bleachers. Some of them were acting as improvised cheerleaders. Paunchy men were doing leaps, while a few women gamely attempted cartwheels and splits. Ouch, groaned the fans.

The referee finally listened to the crowd and called Will on his harassment of Lynn. At the free throw line, Lynn let go a great shot. Swish. For her second shot Will ramped up the verbal harassment hoping to distract her. He succeeded, and she missed the shot. The score was tied.

Will recovered the rebound on Lynn’s missed free throw and galloped down the court, followed quickly by all the other players. Lynn put on a burst of speed and raced ahead of him. He went up for the shot and she jumped with him bringing her fist up under his chin. The ball missed and he tumbled to the floor. Lynn stood over him as he recovered from the punch and got to his knees.

On the floor and breathless, Will crawled toward Lynn and pulled at her ankles. She fell backward, bumping her elbows on the hardwood floor. She scrambled to her knees in a fury and lunged at Will. The crowd was screaming, egging her on as the two teams rushed in to break up the fight.

As the crowd rushed down from the bleachers, the police ran into the gym. The crowd separated and let the one detective and one officer into the center of the floor where Lynn and Will were lying flat on their backs, sweating, panting, and looking a little bruised.

Lynn stared up at the stranger. Who are you? she panted.

Police. He opened his jacket to show a badge attached at his belt. He reached down and helped her to her feet as the other officer helped Will. Have you been drinking? The officer addressed Lynn.

What? It was a sound only an outraged woman could make.

He wants to know if you’re sober? Will grinned at her.

I’ll … She lunged at Will but was stopped as the detective hooked his arm around her waist. She seemed to