Romance amongst the roses

By M.C. Baker

Romance Amongst the Roses -

The Rebirth of Dennis Brownfield

Emerging from a dark period following the heartbreaking loss of his beloved wife, Dennis Brownfield is finally coaxed into embarking on a trip to Texas to visit his son and new daughter-in-law.

Arriving in the Rose Capital of America, Tyler Texas, right at the time of the annual Rose Festival, provides Dennis with the best chance to explore his son's new home.

A simple day trip to Dallas, however, changes everything, opening the door for a cast of characters both real and surreal. They have a massive impact on this Aussie widower's journey as they reveal that love hasn't finished with Dennis yet.

Like the people he touched in this story of his rebirth, you too will fall in love with Dennis, and laugh along with his quirky Australian humour.

• Language: English
• Publisher: M.C. Baker
• Release date: Oct 22, 2017
• ISBN: 9780648116509

M.C. Baker

M.C. Baker has spent most of his working life observing people. Whether from behind the counter selling books and magazines, or behind the bar in his latest venture, he has a large range of characters to choose from. Living in rural Victoria, in South Eastern Australia, with his wife Tanya, it’s easy to imagine M.C. Baker entertaining friends with stories, some comical like his first book, Romance amongst the Roses or thrillingly like his next story. But all his stories include a touch of romance. M.C. Baker has just recently returned from a trip to Tyler, the Texas city in his first book, discovering for himself the warmth and beauty of this incredible town. Now, he’s off investigating football teams and potential drug-rings.

Book preview

Chapter One

––––––––

You be careful over there, a handsome Aussie like you will be quite a catch.

This was exactly the reaction Dennis had expected from his administration officer Joan, who after being raised on a diet of Oprah, Jerry Springer, and Doctor Phil considered herself an expert on all things American.

Don't worry, Joan, his solemn face barely able to hide his smile as he'd grabbed the can of insect repellent they kept in the office, I will go armed and ready.

Just be wary, okay? she replied, hugging him.

I promise, Dennis kissed her cheek.

Joan and her husband Tom had been an amazing comfort to Dennis and his late wife Marlene as she'd bravely fought her battle with cancer. In the twelve months since her passing Dennis had been the recipient of a constant supply of leftovers.

Ever since the kids have moved out I still cook too much, she'd answered his protests. If I didn't give it to you, then I'd have to eat it, and how would I keep this gorgeous figure?

They both laughed as Joan's figure could best be described as a large Zero, and as well as being the resident expert on all things USA, she also knew everything about every fad diet.

Now the day of departure had arrived and Dennis paused as he removed the western style shirt from the RM Williams bag and laid it in his suitcase on top of the same brand jeans. They were the first new pieces of clothing he'd owned since the new suit for Marlene's funeral.

You can't just take all your city clothes over to Stuart's, Dad, as it is you'll standout enough with the accent, his daughter Janis had joked.

Dennis had gone along with her. He hadn't even really wanted to go to America but his son had sent him the ticket. For the past twelve months Dennis had not really gone anywhere but work or to his daughters for things like Christmas and Father's Day. It had taken him six months to regain interest in his small garden and it had become very therapeutic.

Finally, the kids had convinced him it would do him good to get away, and after talking to work, he had decided on a date and left the rest to Stuart. Dennis was a popular boss at the maintenance department of Victoria University, the whole department had attended Marlene's service and they promised everything would be kept in order.

Dennis closed the lid of his carry-on bag and for the umpteenth time checked his passport and ticket, turning as his daughter walked into the room.

Ready, Dad?

As ready as I'll ever be, he smiled.

Good, now just one more important thing, and she handed him a slip of paper.

He looked at it, trying to decipher the exotic list of names.

Who are these people? he frowned.

Not people, Dad, perfumes for when you come back through duty-free, silly. I know you'll want to buy something special for your favorite daughter.

Oh, you're sure, are you? As she was his only daughter the favorite tag was their little joke.

Unless you want to walk to the airport, you'll just tuck that paper into your wallet, mister.

Dennis made a big show of tucking it away and grabbing the bags, they headed laughing out to the car. Laughter had been slowly creeping back into his life.  Fifty-five was too young to contemplate a life of feeling sad and although he hadn't let on to anyone, the prospect of the trip over to see his son had been exciting him the past few weeks.

––––––––

The Melbourne airport seems to double in size every time Dennis visits it and he was thankful that his daughter was driving.

Are you sure you don't want me to park and come in, Dad? Janis asked looking unsure.

I'll be ok, it costs so much to park and all I want to do is check the case in and go through the silver doors. It's always intrigued me what's hidden behind there.

Just long queues, Dad, you'll soon be over that. Now, ring me as soon as you get there, I've told Stuart to as well so it might sink into one of you.

Dennis smiled. Janis was just like her mother, sounded like her, especially at times like is. The car pulled to the curb and he leaned over and kissed her cheek.

Thanks for this, I’ll see you in a few weeks. If Joan's right I may end up in Vegas and bring you home a new mother, he laughed.

Don't you dare, Dad, Janis grabbed his hand, not that I'm against you finding someone else but she'll have to survive my rigorous interrogation first.

Don't worry baby, I won't do anything without consulting the selection panel. He let go of her hand, climbing out and opening the back door.

Dennis took his bags from the back seat of the car and waved as Janis sped off before the approaching security man moved her on. As he walked into the airport he thought of their last exchange. Marlene had made it clear when talking to him and the kids in the weeks before her death that she wanted Dennis to find someone else.

At the time, he had brushed off the thought, too busy thinking of her and not wanting to imagine life without her, but recently he'd began to miss having someone to share little things with.

Chapter Two

––––––––

The departure hall was huge and he stopped, trying to get his bearings. Searching in his bag he found the copy of his itinerary and was looking for the flight number when he was almost knocked off his feet by a heavily laden luggage trolley.

Oh shit, I'm sorry, a female voice came from behind the pile of luggage as he steadied himself. He looked up as she appeared from behind them.

Oh, my God, I've been run over by Dolly Parton, was Dennis' first thought. The only thing missing was the accent, the hair, smile, and high heels along with the imposing bust and lack of height were all very Dollyesque.

No, it's my fault, I probably stopped in a thoroughfare, Dennis assured her.

They wouldn't let the damn taxi driver help me in. Lucky I at least got a trolley she patted the pile of bags.

I'm a bit lost here, he admitted, it's not like domestic.

Where're you heading? she asked.

Qantas to Dallas. Texas he added

Me too, I've got it memorized. Check-in number 35 to 40, follow me, she ordered.

You take my case, Dennis offered, let me push your removal van disguised as a trolley.

I need it all, babe, she smiled.

Denis wondered why but thought he’d wait to ask as she grabbed his case and headed off towards check-in. Arriving at the desk, the attendant waved them both up. As they handed over their passports, it became evident she thought they were traveling together, and not wanting to cause a fuss, Dennis let it go.

Once she looked at the tickets though, she realized the error.

I'm sorry, ma'am, do you still want to sit together to Dallas?

She turned and looked at him and smiled.

You know, young lady, I think I just might, she smiled.

They finished the check-in and as they walked to security she held out her hand.

Gloria Jones, or as I'm known on the music tribute circuit, Dolly Parsons.

Dennis Brownfield, or as I'm known on the university maintenance scene, Dennis Brownfield, Dennis replied, accepting the surprisingly firm handshake.

She laughed, and he smiled as they reached security. After passing through Dennis saw her waiting.

Have you anything to do before we go through customs and immigration? Gloria asked.

I was just going to check out duty-free perfumes, he answered.

For the wife? she asked carefully.

No, for my daughter. Dennis winced, remembering how Marlene used to love her perfumes.

Gloria must have seen his pained look.

You can get them through the doors. Let's go get all the paperwork done and then we can go to the Qantas club lounge and have a drink.

I'm not in that, Dennis admitted, I don't travel much.

Well, I do and I'm allowed a guest, so let's go she ordered.

The silver doors closed behind them and to his disappointment, Dennis discovered his daughter was right, queues awaited, but he took it all in, relishing the experience.

Once they were cleared, Gloria guided him through the duty-free and using Janis' list he pre-purchased her perfumes, they would be ready for him on his return.

She's a lucky girl, Gloria commented.

I'm a lucky dad, the kids have been wonderful the last couple of years.

As they waited in the queues, he had told Gloria part of his story, of Marlene, and how he was going to see Stuart. In return, he'd learned of Gloria's quest to win a prize at Dollywood, for the best tribute artist.

The suitcases were full of costumes, and if she sang as closely as she looked the part, Dennis told her, she was in with a good chance.

It's my second try, but I learned a lot, she confided to him, this time I think I'm ready.

True to her word, Gloria was able to get Dennis into the Qantas club and as they enjoyed a drink, he passed his phone to her.

Take a picture for me, I'll send it to Janis. She was worried about me waiting alone, he confided.

Gloria took a picture of him toasting the Qantas club sign and within minutes of him sending it, he had a reply.

Trust you, Dad, enjoy. Love you xxx

Dennis showed the message to Gloria and she laughed.

Go and get yourself a snack and a drink, it's all complimentary. I need to send a few emails to my agent and sort out a few things for Tennessee. We'll have plenty of time to talk on the way to Dallas.

Walking around the lounge Dennis was amazed at how different this was from his other experiences at an airport, crowded overpriced bars and cafes. Everything here seemed so relaxed and he filled a plate with some snacks, taking a glass of wine and settling himself into a quiet corner.

He amused himself by people watching, glancing occasionally at the television for the next thirty minutes, smiling as he saw Gloria approach.

Well hi there, Mister Jetsetter, come here often? she said in her best Dolly voice.

Not as often as I like, Purty Lady, and they laughed at his attempted southern accent.

I think you better leave the impersonations to me dahlin’, unless it's going to be Crocodile Dundee. We have about thirty minutes, so how about fetchin’ me one of those fine Aussie wines?

Are you going to keep that accent up all the way to Dallas? Dennis asked, faking a grimace. The truth was, he liked the sound of it.

I need to practice, she smiled, anyway, you better get used to some different accents. You'll soon be floating in Texas drawl.

I hope I can understand them, I might get into trouble if I nod my head at the wrong time.

Where does your son live? Gloria sat down next to him and turned slightly.

A big city in Texas, Tyler, a hundred thousand people.

Big? That's a country town over there. Mmmm, a handsome Aussie widower, you'll be the talk of the town. How did your son end up there?

He met his wife Cindy at a university of Texas conference. He was over there presenting a research paper. Her father had a lot to do with that department and arranged for a grant. Lucky for him he didn't inherit his old man’s brains, he's done well for himself. My biggest disappointment is that we couldn’t travel to the wedding as Marlene was too ill. Cindy’s family and the university were very supportive and Stuart was able to come out and spend a couple of months near the end.

Well, if he inherited his dad's nature I'm sure he has lots of friends there, now go get that wine or I'll get you kicked out of the club, she pushed him to his feet.

Dennis wandered off smiling, giving thanks to whoever had made the trolley run into him. Gloria was just what he needed on this trip and he was looking forward to hearing more of what must be an interesting story.

Returning with the wine, he found her chatting on her phone.

Ok honey, I've gotta go. Love you, she ended the call.

Hubby checking up on you? Dennis asked.

Oh shit, no. Oops, sorry, it's just whenever I hear that word it gets me. I've never had one of those. That's my boy Travis. I was in a few bands, even had some hits as a young woman but ended up pregnant to one of the big stars at the time. I gave up singing to bring up Travis and once he went to university, I started again. It's been great and unlike some of the bastards in the industry, his dad was totally supportive. It probably helped that he had a whole lot to lose, but he never missed a payment. Travis has been good too, I explained it early and he has had a chance to meet his father. The magazines would have a field day but luckily he takes after me, although he sings like his dad.

Damn, I've lived a different life, Dennis muttered. Gloria gripped his arm and lifted her glass in a toast.

You've lived a good life, Dennis, and so have I. Everyone is different, but now I just want to drink a toast to whatever has brought us here. She squeezed his arm, I believe there's a purpose, even if it is someone to bore the ears off of on a seventeen-hour flight.

Gloria made another couple of phone calls and then turning it off, threw into it her bag.

That's it for me until we land, damn things, we get tied to them.

Sounds like a plan, although no one will even notice mine's off, Dennis turned his off and put it into his carry on. Stuart says he has arranged for me to have a phone over there, as my old one is useless. I've left the new number with Janis.

Give it to me before we disembark, I'll give you a call and let you know how I went.

That's a deal, Dennis smiled, but only if you promise to talk Aussie, I'll be hanging out for it by then.

The voice over the loud speaker interrupted them as their flight was announce, and they left the lounge to walk to the gate. Dennis was aware of the looks from some of the other travelers.

They probably are wondering who the guy is with Dolly Parton, he laughed.

Oh, I don't think I'm that close, a few people still recognize me from Australia's Got Talent. That was how I kick started my comeback with the Dolly thing.

I never watched that, did you win? he asked.

I got into the top ten, but that was enough to get me a few jobs. After my first trip to Dollywood I had  more work, even a small tour in Asia.

As they had come from the lounge most of the passengers had boarded, and they were able to walk straight on. The A380 was such a big plane Dennis could only imagine the queues before they arrived.

Welcome back, Ms. Jones, the steward smiled, go straight up. You too, Mr. Brownfield.

Wow, this sounds flash, Dennis whispered as entered the passage to the upper deck.

Don't get too excited honey, there are some normal economy seats at the rear. At least it should be nice and quiet though she assured him.

Chapter Three

––––––––

They weren't long in their seats before the pre-flight announcements, and before Dennis knew it they were rolling down the runway. He squeezed his eyes shut, knuckles white as he gripped the armrest. Gloria’s hand covered his. He prised his eyes open and was rewarded with a smile.

It'll be okay, Dennis, she assured him, and he lifted his hand and squeezed hers.

Thank you, I'm not such a sook all the time.

It doesn't mean you're a sook, I've seen big tough roadies in tears when I was touring, she comforted him.

The plane tilted and the Melbourne skyline filled the window.

It's a beautiful city, isn't it, Dennis said to Gloria, now I'm going to see how it compares with some others.

It compares pretty well, Gloria replied, I couldn't call anywhere else home.

Once the plane levelled out, the pilot’s voice welcomed them all on board, giving them an estimated arrival time, the time on the ground in Dallas and a short weather report. Gloria showed Dennis how to work the entertainment and he spotted a couple of movies he'd been wanting to see.

This is amazing, the only times I've flown before we've all had to watch the same show, he said, pushing a few buttons.

I'll be trying to get into a proper sleep pattern, Gloria said as she changed her watch to Tennessee time. They chatted about their respective family lives; they might not have been the same but both had a lot of pride in their children.

It must have been hard for you to give your career up.

It wasn't really. Travis made it all so worthwhile. I'm so glad I didn't try to stay on the road with him, but I'm certainly enjoying getting back out there. I think I would've been burnt out by now. What about you, any regrets? she arched an eyebrow.

Only that we didn't travel more, all these things we were going to do in retirement. That didn't happen, did it. A tear started down his cheek and Gloria reached up and brushed it away.

You're still young, Dennis, and now you’re travelling. Would Marlene have wanted tears? she put on a stern face.

No, she was most insistent near the end that I don't fall into a well of self-pity. Get out, travel, meet new people, be a pain in the arse to some other poor woman, Dennis smiled.

She didn't say that, surely? Gloria laughed.

Oh, yes she did, but that was her funny way. The whole family has this weird sense of humor, my kids even quoted it in her eulogy.

Well, let's see, Gloria started counting on her fingers, one, you've got out, two, you’re travelling, three, you've met at least one new person, me. You haven't been a pain in the arse yet though.

Wait till I start snoring half way to Dallas, Dennis let out a big fake snore and Gloria burst out laughing.

Not if I get to sleep first, she countered, I may be little but I have a good set of lungs.

I'm not surprised, Dennis looked down at her Dolly Parton type bust. Gloria pouted and Dennis immediately felt bad, I'm sorry, that was insensitive of me.

Don't be silly, I was only joking with you, Dennis, she hit his arm, you could never offend me. Now, I'm just going to the bathroom, save my seat, don't let any strange women steal it.

When she returned, Dennis stood so she could easily slip into her seat. The Qantas layout for the top level of the A380 had business class and premium economy with just a couple of rows of normal economy at the rear. One of the advantages was there were only two seats on the window side of the aisle.

As Gloria slipped passed him the smell of freshly applied perfume teased his nose.

Mmmm, that smells beautiful, are you trying to keep me awake so that I don't snore?

Why thank you, kind sir, it's just a little something us southern belles like to do, smell all nice and pretty, Gloria said in her best southern accent.

Well, it sounds like I might just like these southern Sheila's, Dennis responded in an Aussie drawl.

I hope that boy of yours has high fences around the house, I think his dad is going to be quite a hit, she kidded him.

Dennis took the opportunity while standing to go to the toilet as well,and when he returned there was a little blanket and pillow on his seat.

The cabin crew asked if I needed anything so I took the liberty of getting one for you. I'm going to try and get a little sleep. I did a show on the weekend then Travis took me out for a farewell drink last night. It's now midnight Tennessee time, so I'll try and get my body in sync.

With no one behind, they could recline their seats a little, and Gloria was able to turn her petite frame slightly. Dennis closed his eyes and relaxed for what seemed like the first time in months. His hand was laying on the arm rest and he jumped a little when he felt a tiny hand cover it and give a squeeze. Opening his eyes, he looked down beside him into Gloria's smiling eyes.

I'm glad I ran into you, literally and otherwise, Dennis.

He squeezed her hand in reply and she closed her eyes, the smile drifting to her lips.

Chapter Four

––––––––

She's good, isn't she? Marlene was excited sitting in the front row, the noise of the crowd behind singing along washing over them.

Amazing! Dennis agreed putting his arm around her shoulders, beaming as Dolly Parton pranced around the stage on her heels, pink sequined skirt, and jacket reflecting the lights.

She finished a song and walked passed them giving them a little wave.

I bet she's just as nice in real life as she appears on stage, Marlene shouted in his ear over the applause.

I'm sure she is, he agreed.

Dolly turned to start a new song and Dennis realized she had changed. The crowd was still cheering and singing but it was now Gloria up there. Marlene hadn't noticed the change. Dennis was the only one in the place that had realized and he was mesmerized as Gloria stopped in front of them, telling the crowd she wanted someone from the audience to sing to.

The band was playing the opening bars of Islands in the Stream, as Gloria reached out for his hand to draw him up on stage. Dennis looked sideways at Marlene who was smiling.

Go, Dennis, go up there, I'll be fine, she's so lovely. She'll look after you, she urged.

Marlene, no, no, as he was lifted onto the stage she was fading away, please, Marlene, don't go, his hand and arm were shaking.

Dennis, are you okay? Wake up honey, wake up.

He felt someone holding his other arm and opened his eyes to be greeted by Gloria's concerned look and that of one of the cabin crew.

Are you okay, sir? the blonde attendant asked, was it a nightmare?

Dennis was forced to think before he answered, he had dreamed of Marlene before and they were never nightmares. This one was just so different.

I'll be fine thanks, Gwen, he read her name off the badge, really it was just a dream, but thank you so much for your concern.

Just call if you need anything, okay?

I will, thank you, he turned to Gloria, I'm so sorry if I made a scene, it was just so vivid.

I know ,Dennis, honey, it's okay, she touched his arm.

Dennis decided against trying to sleep and put the headphones