Her Husband’S Crossing: A Man Remembering His Past and His Love for One Woman

By Steven W. Moore

The only person seventy-seven-year-old Robert Landon recognizes is his daughter, Heather. Robert doesnt know his grandchildren, Carrie and Brian. But most importantly, Robert, suffering from the early stages of Alzheimers, doesnt know his wife, Jessica.

Heather is determined to rectify this situation. She knows her parents forty-two-year relationship is a love story for the ages. Heather and Jessica concoct a plan to help jar Roberts memory, to remind him that his one true love is waiting for him. The doctor, however, warns that the plan could backfire, and Robert could become upset hearing the details of his past.

From his birth in 1900 to attending college at New York University to becoming a US Senator, Heather recaps the details of Roberts life for him. She reminds him of his desire to be successful in the era prior to the Great Depression and how these events found him caught in a whirlwind of trouble: trouble with the law, trouble with trying to find a means of supporting himself, as well as trouble with an entangled weave of numerous women who were in awe of him. But will he ever be able to remember the woman from his past who calls him her husband?

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Mar 11, 2011
• ISBN: 9781450299435

Steven W. Moore

Steven W. Moore is a Summa Cum Laude graduate earning his bachelor of arts in history at Mars Hill University in Mars Hill, North Carolina. He is the author of A Journey To Freedom, Her Husband's Crossing, and A Walk in the Past. He lives in Candler, North Carolina.

Book preview

Her

Husband’s

Crossing

A Man Remembering His Past and His Love for One Woman

Steven W. Moore

iUniverse, Inc.

Bloomington

Her Husband’s Crossing

A Man Remembering His Past and His Love for One Woman

Copyright © 2011 Steven W. Moore

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the publisher except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

Certain characters in this work are historical figures, and certain events portrayed did take place. However, this is a work of fiction. All of the other characters, names, and events as well as all places, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

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ISBN: 978-1-4502-9942-8 (pbk)

ISBN: 978-1-4502-9944-2 (clth)

ISBN: 978-1-4502-9943-5 (ebk)

Printed in the United States of America

iUniverse rev. date: 3/8/11

Contents

Chapter 1 Family Plan

Chapter 2 The Encounter

Chapter 3 College Strife

Chapter 4 Reunited

Chapter 5 A Break And Bust

Chapter 6 Arrested

Chapter 7 Hands Of Fate

Chapter 8 Connections

Chapter 9 Followed

Chapter 10 Useless Roses

Chapter 11 Conflicted

Chapter 12 Violent Warning

Chapter 13 Agent Surprise

Chapter 14 Central Park Speech

Chapter 15 So Much In Common

Chapter 16 Bon Voyage

Chapter 17 Beach Drama

Chapter 18 Under The Lights

Chapter 19 Female Emotions

Chapter 20 The Goal

Chapter 21 Vindication

Chapter 22 Break Up To Beach House

Chapter 1 Family Plan

I grabbed my sweater from the dresser, my final article of clothing that I possessed from the house. It hit me right then as I stared at my open suitcase, that my packing was done, and I realized that I was leaving the man of my dreams behind. I folded the top flap of my suitcase over and zipped it together, ceasing to now longer see the things that he had bought for me over my long years spent together with him, things that brought me such comfort and joy, joy that had now wasted away. The silence was deafening that day in a room that I once called my own, the room that I shared so many years with my husband. I stared out of the window into the clear, sunny sky, thinking back over all the years that I had spent with him. A tear fell from my eye as I walked over to his side of the bed and kissed his pillow one last time before leaving. I could still smell the all too familiar scent of him as my nose pressed against his pillow. I felt so alone as the silence worsened in the room. I was so used to having him hold me when things got rough like they were at this point, but there was no him there to console my wounded heart. After taking a deep breath, I gathered up my suitcase and proceeded to walk out of the room, a room that had stored so many fond memories of the two of us. I stopped at the threshold between the room and the hallway and turned around for one last long look. I wiped the tears from my face and spoke out softly. ‘I will be back, if it’s the last thing I do, I will be back,’ I whispered to myself. I then turned and walked out into the hallway. I came to the living room, where there, sitting in his favorite chair, was the love of my life. I noticed that he was in deep thought as his head was turned in the opposite direction from me. I wondered what he was thinking. I wondered if I ever crossed his mind anymore. I didn’t want to disturb him and I didn’t want him to know that I was leaving. With tears now flowing freely down my face, I slowly and quietly walked to the foyer of the house. I took one last long look at him, gazing at every feature on his face. I was stunned at what I was about to do. The emotions of leaving him started to overwhelm me, almost overtaking me as I stood there. I felt as if I was going to pass out as the weight of the suitcase began to feel like it was going to tip me over. I realized that I must get out of there. After several minutes of staring at him, I turned around, took a deep breath, and then proceeded out the front door. As I was walking down the sidewalk toward my car, I was thinking to myself, ‘I’m not letting go of him.’ And I wasn’t going to let go of him, I was letting go of the last few years of us, but I wasn’t about to give up on him, not a chance.

A few weeks later, I don’t know if this is going to work, Heather whispered to herself as she found herself driving through a torrential, nighttime downpour in South Meadow, a suburb just on the outskirts of Arlington, Virginia. It was a cool late April evening in 1977, as Heather, with her shoulder length black hair pulled back into a pony tail, was driving her 1976 Chevrolet Impala with her daughter, eleven year old Carrie Ann riding alongside her in the front seat, and her five year old son Brian riding in the back. She was turning off of Park Street onto Lane Avenue, just miles from her father’s house. She took her eyes off of the road momentarily as she stared at the wipers sloshing the water from one side of the windshield to the other, thinking about the plan she and her mother were about to carry out. It’s a delicate plan, but one Heather realizes needs to be done under the circumstances. She’s at the brink of losing her father, maybe for good this time, as she focused her attention back on the road. She looked back at her son in the rearview mirror and noticed the long look he had on his face. He’s too young to truly realize his grandfather’s condition, but he’s old enough to know that something is terribly wrong with him, and she can tell it had saddened his spirits as they get closer to the house. Sometimes she wonders if it is such a good idea to bring him with her when she sees her father, but in her father’s worsened state, she feels it’s important for Brian to know him a little, rather than none at all.

Are we going to have to introduce ourselves to him once again, Mom? Carrie Ann asked. You know the drill, Carrie Ann, Heather responded. But it hurts when he looks at me with that blank stare, and it creeps me out too. I mean, I can remember when he once used to call me pooh bear, and give me big hugs and ask me how my life was going. Now, it’s just that blank stare. It’s not fair, Mom. I know, Sweetheart, but we have to be tough for him. You have to remember, Carrie Ann, that this could be the last time you ever see him. Each time you visit him it could be the last time. Carrie Ann faced her head downward, toward the floorboard. I know, that only makes it even more depressing, she said. What’s depressing mean? Brian asked from the backseat. It means feeling sad, Brian, Heather said. Because of grandpa, right? Brian asked. Yes, Dear, because of grandpa, Heather responded. She began to wonder if she was doing her children more harm than good by bringing them with her. He was their grandfather however, and time was of the essence. It may be their final opportunity to see him. But did she want their memories of him to be what they were going to witness on this night? Either way, she felt they needed to see their grandfather, regardless of what condition he was in.

I just don’t see how grandma does it, Carrie Ann remarked. She’s crazy about him, Carrie Ann, Heather said, more so than when they first met. She’s tough. She has told me numerous times how she will stay with him to the end. She has said over and over again ‘I will go to my grave with him.’ They’ve been together so long, I just couldn’t imagine them no longer being together, Carrie Ann said. That caused tears to begin welling up in Heather’s eyes. Heather tried to choke back the tears. They’re a love story for the ages, she told Carrie Ann. Are you alright, Mom? Carrie Ann asked. Yes, Dear, it’s just tough on the whole family, you know. His illness just affects us all, not just grandma. To see him deteriorating like this, it’s heartbreaking. I know, Mom, it’s just depressing, Carrie Ann said. Brian chuckled out loud. There’s that word again, he said. Brian’s innocent spirit was helping to alleviate the saddening mood that existed in the car between Heather and Carrie Ann over their father and grandfather. Sure, he understood that his grandfather was sick, and he was a little down about it, but nothing even close to the discouragement Heather and Carrie Ann were feeling. He was just too young to be that depressed. Depression was a word he was hearing often in that car that evening.

And I know it is especially tough on you, Carrie Ann. You knew your grandfather when he was well. You have good memories of him just like I do, and now to see that all gone. It’s okay, Mom, I’ve grown to accept his condition. It’s still just strange every time I first see him, with that distant, void look on his face whenever he looks at me. I just can’t get used to it. Heather placed her hand on Carrie Ann’s leg. I know, Sweetheart, she said. Carrie Ann spoke up in a sarcastic tone. "At least he remembers you all the time, she told her mom. Hey now, you don’t have to get smart about it, little missy, Heather said. I can’t help who he remembers, Carrie Ann. To be honest with you, Dear, I wish he recognized you guys rather than me. Oh, you don’t mean that, Mom, Carrie Ann said. Yes, I do, Carrie Ann. I would much rather he knew the both of you instead of me. But what about the plan? Carrie Ann asked. It wouldn’t work if he didn’t know you, Mom, she continued. Might work, Carrie Ann, there are no guarantees that this plan will even get off the ground, much less be successful. What’s get off the ground mean? Carrie Ann asked. It means to get started, or begin something," Heather said.

Be positive, Mom, Carrie Ann said. I know, Dear, your grandmother has put so much time and effort into this thing being pulled off; I hope for her sake that it works. She really is going to great lengths to make this thing work isn’t she? Carrie Ann asked. Yes, Carrie Ann, Heather replied, she’s betting the farm on this one. Betting the farm, what’s that? Carrie Ann asked. Heather chuckled. She’s really depending on this working, that’s what it means, Heather said. Why is she doing all of this? Carrie Ann inquired. One word, Dear, love. She loves your grandfather so much. Their love has only grown stronger over the years. But what’s sad is that when your grandfather became sick, his love stopped, but your grandmother’s love just continued to get stronger as the years grew on. That’s why she’s so desperate in this plan working. She’s trying everything she knows to get back his love for her. Even though she’s with him, he’s not with her. Does that make sense, Dear? Kind of, Carrie Ann responded. It’s kind of like a give and take situation, right, Mom? I mean grandma is giving, and grandpa is taking, but not giving anything back in return. Exactly, Dear, that’s a great way to put it.

Carrie Ann was amazed while listening to her mother go on about her grandmother’s love for her grandfather. Wow, she must really love him, she told her mom. As I was growing up, Dear, I never saw two people so in love. I never saw them fight once. They set an excellent example for me on how to love and care for someone. Like dad, Carrie Ann interrupted. Yes, exactly, like loving your dad. I learned unconditional love from them, how to be happily married, how to treat your spouse, how to treat your children, all of that, Heather said.

Carrie Ann looked at the open seat area between her and her mother. It’s sad that he can’t remember any of that love grandma has for him, Carrie Ann said. Well, I’m going to try and fix all of that, Carrie Ann. Just don’t get your hopes up, Mom. "You mean grandma, don’t let her get her hopes up, that’s the main thing. She’s riding on this lock, stock, and barrel. I’m afraid she’s really going to get hurt if this doesn’t work. Yes, Honey, I don’t want to get let down, but I’m more concerned with your grandma than me. What will she do if it doesn’t work? Carrie Ann asked her mother. I don’t know; that’s what I’m afraid of. She’s so desperate right now for his affection. She will be crushed if it doesn’t work. She’s lonely, Dear. What do you mean, Mom? What I mean is even though she’s with your grandpa, she’s not getting any response from him, and it’s making her lonely. She’s starving for affection, especially from him, mainly from him, but she’s not getting it and that’s making her lonely. Do you understand? Yeah. You know listening to you talk about the love they have for each other, or at least the love grandma has for grandpa, but also the love they had for each other all those years, it really makes me hopeful that I will have such a marriage. But then I look at grandpa now, and I don’t know, it makes me not so excited at the prospect of getting married, or getting old. Baby, when you find the right man, and you will, love just kind of conquers everything, no matter how tough it gets. And grandma is a perfect example of that. Being married is not a smooth ride, you will have some bumps along the way, but if your love is strong enough, if you truly love each other, then you will endure through those tough times. Like grandma is doing with grandpa right now, right? Carrie Ann asked. Exactly. They’re going through a rough spell, but their love is strong enough to withstand it, at least your grandma’s love for your grandpa is strong enough. If your grandpa was aware of his surroundings, his love for her would be just as strong. How do you know when you find the right person, Mom? I don’t know, Sweetheart, you just know. Mainly when you go through a difficult time and your love is still strong, that’s usually when you know you’re with the right one. Don’t worry about that now, Dear; you have a long time before you have to worry about that. But I understand, Mom. If you still love that person after you’ve gone through a rough time, you’re meant to be. Something like that, Dear."

After a few minutes of driving on Lane Avenue, Heather finally arrived at her father’s house, slowly pulling into the water soaked driveway. Her father’s house was a one story, ranch style house, made with antique bricks, with orange shutters and brown trim. It normally took fifteen minutes to get from her house to her father’s house, but on this rainy night, it took much longer. Heather lived in a suburb called Hathway Ridge, which was adjacent to her father’s suburb. She found herself moving closer and closer to him as his years increased over time. She wanted it that way in case something happened to him that required her to be at his house in a moment’s notice.

Okay, Carrie Ann, wait in the car until I get the umbrella up and make my way over to your side of the car, that way all three of us can go to the house under it and not get soaked, Heather said. What do I do when I get in there? I certainly can’t talk to him, Carrie Ann replied back. You’re going to take your brother upstairs and play with him in my old room, Heather said. Carrie Ann had a look of disgust on her face. Mom! she said. Mom nothing, I need you to occupy your brother while I spend some time with the doctor and your grandpa, okay. But, Mom, he spits! Who spits? Heather asked. Brian, he’s into this spitting thing now, even indoors. Brian began laughing in the backseat. Brian, no spitting, you hear me? Heather sternly warned him. Brian, this is not funny, she continued. Heather began pointing her finger at Brian. No spitting in your grandparents home, she told him. Mom, I don’t want to introduce myself to him again, it’s so strange, Carrie Ann said. Heather snapped back. Carrie Ann, just do it, you have no choice. It was obvious; the stress of her father’s situation was getting to Heather. Carrie Ann just rolled her eyes. Great, she frustratingly said as she watched her mother get out of the car.

Heather got out of the car with umbrella in hand and noticed Nurse Debra standing at the edge of the front porch awning waiting for them. Heather walked over and stood over top of Carrie Ann as she got Brian from the backseat. They then proceeded to the front porch.

Heather, come in out of that awful rain! Debra yelled from the front porch as the three made their way up the steps to the front door where Debra now had it opened for them. Heather stood at the entranceway, shaking the water from her umbrella. Hey, Debra, terrible weather isn’t it, oh my goodness, Heather said. Debra stretched her arm toward the inside of the house. Yes, please come in, she told Heather and the children. As Carrie Ann walked in, she quickly noticed her grandfather sitting in his orange, tweed covered chair, with his untouched dinner placed in front of him on a small folding table, with a glass of water next to it, also untouched. He was just sitting there looking down at the floor. Carrie Ann approached him as she took a deep breath. Hey there, Young Lady, what’s your name? Robert Landon asked his granddaughter. Robert stood up, a tall, skinny gentleman, six foot two, with thick, straight, combed back, ivory gray hair. A very handsome man for his age, he had very few wrinkles on his face, but it was apparent, as skinny as he was, that he was not eating. Carrie Ann tentatively walked up to her seventy-seven year old grandfather. Hi, I’m Carrie Ann, she said. The young eleven-year old was crushed inside to have to introduce herself like that. No matter how many times she did it, she never got used to it. It broke her spirit afresh each time during the introduction. It hurt her so bad that he didn’t remember her. The eight years they spent bonding seemed like a waste, she thought, as she stood there staring up at her grandfather. Robert placed his hand out to shake Carrie Ann’s. Hi, Carrie Ann, I’m Robert. That caused Carrie Ann to begin crying. She then quickly ran upstairs. Heather, witnessing the whole ordeal, was broken hearted. Once again she was questioning whether or not it was such a good idea to allow her children to see their grandfather.

Oh my goodness, what’s wrong with that little girl? Robert questioned to himself. Heather could overhear her father’s questioning. She knelt down and got eye level with Brian as she placed her arm around his shoulders. Brian, you go upstairs and meet your sister in the room, okay, she said. From where Robert was standing in the living room he could clearly see Heather. Heather, my Dear! Robert yelled toward the foyer, where she, Brian, and Debra were standing. Go on, Brian, I’ll see you in a minute, Heather said. Brian darted off, running up the stairs to meet Carrie Ann. Debra, stay close by, I need to talk to you in a minute, Heather said. Is the doctor here yet? she asked Debra. He’ll be here in just a minute, Debra responded. Great, thanks. Daddy! Heather yelled from the foyer to her father who was now approaching her with his arms stretched out. Heather walked up to him and they embraced each other tightly at the entranceway to the living room. After several minutes of hugging, Robert pulled back and stared at Heather with a puzzled look on his face. What’s wrong, Dad? Heather asked. Who was that young girl that came up to me, and why did she start crying when I offered to shake her hand? Robert asked. Heather wanted to dodge the question. Dad, let’s not worry about that right now. How are you? She had to be careful not to shock him and worsen his condition by telling him that that was his very own granddaughter. It was a tight rope many people have to balance when they are faced with someone in the condition Robert was in. I’m doing well, Dear, yeah, I’m doing well, Robert said. It was apparent he was trying to convince himself that he was fine. Heather picked up on it. Are you sure you’re doing well, Dad, you don’t sound so convinced. I don’t know, Heather, I’m just lonely that’s all. But enough about me; tell me how things are going with you. No, Dad, don’t try and change the subject. I’m here for you. I came to know how you are doing. Let’s not talk about me. How’s that husband of yours, John? Dad, his name is Derrick. Derrick, yes Derrick, I don’t know, Heather, my brain gets cloudy sometimes. I’m sorry. Deep down Robert knew something was wrong, and it showed with the insurmountable depression he was feeling, i.e., the reason he wasn’t eating, but on the other hand, he truly didn’t think that anything was wrong with him. Like so many people with Dementia or Alzheimer’s, sometimes they’re so sick that they don’t realize that there is something wrong with them. It’s like they are trapped in their own little world, during which time they think everything is fine with their health, unaware of their declining position. But when they get around people who correct their thought process, it is then that they realize they are not well. Such was the case when Heather had to correct her father calling her husband the wrong name. It was then that Robert realized something was wrong. He had been depressed for so long that it began to feel normal for him to have an impaired judgment. It had engulfed him, that was until a correction was made by something he said to someone else.

Dad, are you eating? Heather asked. Well, um, I try to eat when I can, her father responded. So that would be a no, right, Dad? Heather, I just don’t feel like eating, it’s too much trouble. Are you too depressed to eat, is that why you’re not eating? Heather, let’s talk about something else. No, Dad, I mean look at you, you’re skin and bones. I can tell you’re not eating, you must eat, Dad. Do you have trouble remembering to eat? Heather, I really don’t want to talk about it. Robert was a very prideful man. He had once been successful in his life, and this success resulted in some deep rooted denial of what he had. He just didn’t want to accept the fact that he was sick, and he didn’t want the help of anyone either. He despised the nurse who was there twenty-four seven, and it was humiliating for him to have his daughter question him about such a simple task as eating. Dad, we are going to talk about it, now you need to eat. Come over here and I’ll feed you. But, Heather, but Heather nothing, come on, Dad. Heather took him by the hand and led him from the entranceway to the living room, and then over to his chair, which was right next to the fireplace that was busy with crackling timber on this chilly, damp spring evening.

The last thing Robert wanted was for his daughter to feed him. Heather, I don’t need you to feed me, I can do it myself. Dad, if you could do it yourself this plate would be clean, but as you can plainly see, you haven’t touched a bite. Now sit here in your favorite chair while I feed you. Heather, this is embarrassing. Dad, just be quiet and open up. Heather had grabbed one of the chairs from the dining room and carried it over and placed it in front of her father’s chair, to the side of the folding table the food was resting on. She was thinking in the back of her mind as she sat there feeding her father, Had this thing gotten so bad that he had forgotten how to eat? The thought terrified her. If it had progressed that much, she continued thinking, then there was no way her and her mother’s plan had any chance of succeeding. It had already progressed so much so that Heather was the only family member that Robert recognized. He had been struggling with this now for two years, and it was progressively getting worse. Heather believed he had been struggling with it longer than that. Alright, Dad, last bite, Heather said as Robert opened up for his final bite of the evening. Good job, Dad. Heather, I’m not a child. Nobody said anything about you being a child, Heather said. Robert became aggravated. Well then stop treating me like one! he yelled. Listen, Dad, when I see that you’re not eating, what do you expect me to do, just go on letting you starve? I’m not treating you like a child, I’m, yes you are, Heather, her father interrupted. He now became vehement. You talk to me like a child. My God, you’re feeding me like one, he said. His prideful stubbornness was coming to the forefront. Dad, you can look at it however you want, I’m not letting you starve. So if you perceive that as me treating you like a child, well then, there is nothing I can do about that. Heather, I know you mean well, but I can take care of myself. Once again his pride was getting in the way of the obvious. One, his daughter was feeding him; and two, there was a full time nurse in the house around the clock. Maybe it was Robert’s stubborn pride that caused him to think that he could take care of himself. Maybe he had just forgotten about the nurse being there; or the fact that he had not eaten that entire day. It was probably a combination of both, his forgetfulness and his pride; both of which were causing him to buck other people trying to help him.

Heather felt at this point, instead of arguing with him all night, that she would take extreme measures to show her father that he was indeed sick. Dad, that was your granddaughter that walked up to you tonight and introduced herself to you. Heather knew she was taking a chance by telling him that. She knew it might worsen his already depressed state. Was she making a mistake by telling him this? Robert placed his hand to his mouth. What!? he asked in amazement. Yes, Dad, that was your granddaughter. You didn’t recognize her. Now do you understand why I’m feeding you? Robert was overcome and distraught, now wearing the emotion on his face. What’s her name? he asked. It’s Carrie Ann, Heather responded. Has this happened before? I mean, have I ever asked what her name is before tonight? Yes, Dad, you have. You’re sick, Dad, don’t you see? My God, I don’t even recognize my own granddaughter. It must be emotional for her, right, Heather? Yes, it’s tough on her, but she understands, she’s old enough to handle it, but it’s tough on you, Dad, that’s why I’m here, to help you. Robert had this intense, pain stricken look on his face. Will I forget her after tonight, Dear? he asked. Heather was afraid to push it any further, she could see the strain it was putting on her father. So she did the only thing she knew to do at that point, she lied. No, Dad, you won’t forget.

As Heather and her father were talking, Debra came by to gather up the dishes. Dad, will you excuse me for a minute? I need to talk to the nurse for just a second. Sure, Dear, go ahead.

As Debra made her way into the kitchen, Heather followed behind her. As Debra was putting the dishes into the dishwasher, Heather began to speak. He’s so damn prideful, Debra. I know, Dear, he fights his illness, and me, everyday. But he’s never violent, right, I mean towards you or my mom? Heather asked. No, no, he’s never violent, but I tell you one thing, he’s stubborn enough to ride a bull in a rodeo. Debra responded. Heather laughed. I know, Debra. It’s like he just won’t accept anyone’s help, like he won’t accept the fact that he’s sick. You know, Heather, denial is the only thing that keeps him going, If he didn’t have that, he might completely collapse. What do you mean, Debra? I mean, he’s always walking around here like he’s fine and there’s nothing wrong with him. Like I don’t exist, or that I’m the maid around here, not his nurse. He needs to believe that he’s not sick, it’s the only thing that he has to hold onto. Heather leaned against the kitchen counter, placing both hands firmly on top of the counter. Then I think I may have made a mistake in there tonight, she said. What do you mean, Heather? I told him that he forgot his own granddaughter tonight. Debra placed her hand on Heather’s shoulder. No, Heather, you didn’t, she said. I didn’t have a choice, he was fighting me, telling me that he was fine and that I was treating him like a child. I just thought I should wake him up to reality and let him know how sick he truly was. I was thinking the whole time as I did it that I was making a mistake, but I just couldn’t stop. I really did the wrong thing, didn’t I? Heather, you shouldn’t create motives for him to be depressed, he already is depressed. That only makes things worse on him. I know, I just thought he needed to know how sick he really was. With this kind of illness, Debra began speaking, it’s important to keep a positive environment, make him think things are going alright even though they may not be, paint a pretty picture for him so to speak. I’m no doctor, Heather, so I don’t know for sure, but what you did may have set him back a bit. Speaking of the doctor, when did you say he was going to arrive? Heather asked. Yes, he’ll be here shortly as a matter of fact. Why? If you don’t mind me asking. No, I don’t mind you asking. It’s just that my mother and I have devised this plan that we’re hoping will snap him out of all of this. We’re going to try to relive his past for him, you know, tell him his life story. I was just wondering by asking the doctor if, number one, that was a good idea, and two, if it would work or not. Well, I’m only the nurse, Heather, but I think that’s a brilliant idea, Debra said. Heather became enthused at Debra’s remarks. You do? she asked. Sure I do, Debra responded. Heather became emphatic as she slammed her fist on the kitchen counter. I don’t know what I was thinking in there tonight! Do you think my father can recover from what I told him tonight about forgetting my daughter; I just feel terrible now after I’ve had a chance to reflect on what I’ve done! Did you leave him with anything positive after you told him that? Debra asked. I told him that he would never forget his granddaughter again when he asked if he would. That’s excellent. That’s the right thing to say, that probably made him feel better. I wouldn’t worry about it too much, Heather, he probably feels much better thinking that he’ll never forget her again, even though we both know that was a lie. I know, but I had to say something. I could see the pain written all over his face after I told him that. Look at it this way, Debra continued, now when he sees Carrie Ann tonight he’ll know who she is, at least for tonight anyway. Yes, I’ll make sure they spend some time together before we leave. Debra, I plan on staying over here for a couple of days straight the next several days. Oh, that’s great, Dear, I’m sure your father will really enjoy that. Yes, it’s part of my mother’s plan. I’m taking some leave time at the hospital just to spend them here with him. Derrick’s going to take off work as well to take care of the kids. We really have this thing all planned out. I just hope it’s successful. Well, I hope your plan works, Dear, for your father’s sake. Yes, so do I, Debra, so do I.

As Heather and Debra were in the kitchen, Robert was sitting in his chair contemplating his plight at having such a lack of memory as he stared at the smoldering ashes burning from within the fireplace. How long have I forgotten my granddaughter? Who else have I forgotten? he whispered to himself. Heather’s words had really crushed him as he sat there rubbing his forehead with his hand. Am I really that sick? he continued to whisper. This is so humiliating and embarrassing, my own daughter feeding me, my God, I’m useless. A tear fell from his eye as he continued sitting there stressing over the situation while he rubbed his forehead.

Heather entered the living room about the time the tear fell from Robert’s eye. Heather noticed it. She walked over to him, knelt down, and placed her hands on his knees. Dad, oh, Dad, she said. Dad, it’s going to be alright. I’m so sorry I told you that earlier about Carrie Ann, I didn’t mean to hurt you. Her father didn’t respond, he just sat there with his face buried in his hand. Dad, I promise you, in the next couple of days things are going to get better, I promise. I’m going to stay here with you for the next several days, just us, okay. That remark made Robert lift his head from his hand. What? You are going to stay here with me? he asked. Robert was surprised that someone would want to stay with him. He had felt so lonely for so long, and now he had just learned that the only person he could remember was going to spend some days with him. It was just what he needed after he had just learned what Heather told him earlier about Carrie Ann. Are you really going to stay with me, Heather? Robert asked. Heather smiled. Yes, Dad, I really am, just us. Oh, Heather, I don’t know what to say. I’m so overjoyed right now, I haven’t felt this way in I don’t know how long. I’ve been so lonely. Heather, choking back the tears, gave her father a big hug as she leaned over top of him. It’s going to be alright, Dad, it’s going to be alright. Everything is going to be just fine, you wait and see, Heather said, still leaning over him, now stroking his gray hair. She, like her mother, had begun to rest all her hopes on this plan she was about to carry out. She was trying to convince herself as she stood over her father, stroking his hair, that this plan was going to indeed work. Dad, I have something planned for you that I know will bring you back around. Do you trust me? You know I do, Sweetheart, with everything I have I trust you. Heather stopped stroking his hair, got down on her knee, and placed her hands on his cheeks. Dad, these next several days you’re going to have to listen to everything I have to say, everything, okay. Yes, Dear, I will, but I must ask, what’s so important that you have to take time off of your busy schedule to spend time with an old has been like me? Dad, you’re not a has been, do you hear me? You will soon find out just how important of a man you truly are, but you must concentrate when I’m talking to you, you must listen to every word I say, it’s very important. You actually have me excited, Heather. Wow, it’s been a long time since I’ve felt this feeling. Heather had seemingly successfully repaired the damage she had caused her father just moments earlier when she made him realize just how sick he was.

First things first however, before she could truly convince herself that this plan was going to work, she needed to talk to the doctor. About that time the doorbell rang. Debra went to answer it. Doctor Waulborough, please come in, Debra said, taking his coat and umbrella from him. Hey, Debra, how are you? Doctor Waulborough asked with his slicked back jet black hair shining under the ceiling lights above. I’m fine, Doctor, and you? Debra asked. I’m fine, Debra, just fine. Doctor Waulborough! Heather shouted from the living room as she briskly made her way over to the doctor. Robert looked at the doctor. He recognized Doctor Waulborough; he always reckoned that he was there for his physical well being, not anything having to do with his brain. Doctor Waulborough was one of the most well respected doctors in Arlington when it came to the subject of Dementia and Alzheimer’s. Heather grabbed hold of Doctor Waulborough’s hand. Doctor Waulborough, I need to talk to you so desperately, she said. Hi, Heather, how are you? Doctor Waulborough asked. Fine, Doc, listen I really need to talk to you. Heather, can you give Debra and me a chance to talk about your father first, then I’ll be happy to sit down and talk with you. Doctor, I really need to talk with you, Heather persisted. Heather, let me talk to Debra, then I’ll sit down with you okay, I promise. Heather became somewhat dejected. Okay, Doctor, she said. She looked like she had just gotten the wind knocked out of her. She wanted so desperately to talk to the doctor about her plan. She felt it just couldn’t wait. How long will you be? Heather asked the doctor, as she continued to press the issue. Doctor Waulborough stretched out his hand toward Heather as if to say put on the brakes, please, and wait. I won’t be long, Heather. I just need to talk to the nurse about your father’s condition, Doctor Waulborough said. I promise, I’ll be right back, okay, he continued.

The doctor and nurse Debra went into the kitchen to talk. What in the world is Heather so eager to tell me, Debra? I’m not sure, Doctor, she did tell me that she’s going to be spending the next several days here with Robert. The doctor placed his hand on his mouth in deep thought. Interesting, he said. I don’t know if I like that idea, Debra. I don’t want to interrupt his normal everyday routine, and I’m afraid that that might just set him back somewhat. Well, Doctor, Heather is really set on the idea, and she seems to think that her being here will bring him around. She seems desperate, the doctor said. Yes, I think they all are at this point, Doctor. Is her mother still living with her? the doctor asked. Yes, she moved out of here about three weeks ago. It has something to do with this plan she and Heather have concocted to help Robert. Have you noticed any sudden changes in behavior in Robert since she left? Yes, his eating has decreased tremendously. I can’t get him to eat a thing. Heather had to feed him tonight. Okay, interesting, sounds like I definitely need to talk to Heather about this plan she and her mother want to try on Robert. I may just have to put a stop to it. Robert’s in a fragile state, Debra, we need to keep him in a controlled environment. Heather told him tonight that he didn’t remember his own granddaughter. The doctor stepped back a few inches upon hearing that, as if somewhat shocked. What!? he asked. Why would she do that, Debra? She knows he’s already struggling with depression. How did he take the news? I’m not really sure. I didn’t get a chance to observe him very much. I did notice, however, that he was sitting in his chair with his hand rubbing against his forehead. He seemed really stressed. Yes, I bet he was. If Heather is intending on staying the next several days with him, I must convey to her that she must be careful in what she says. Doctor, I do remember her telling me that she does intend on telling him something while she’s here, something that seems like it will either break him or make him better. That must be what she wants to talk to me so desperately about. She must be careful, Debra. I must find out what she is going to say to him. Do you think he’s getting worse? Well, he has his good days and bad, but mainly it’s the eating problem, he just won’t eat. Yes, depression often takes the place of an appetite, making the patient seem full. It zaps the desire for food that’s for sure. Okay, let me talk to Heather before I do a once over on Robert. Thanks Debra for the update. You’re welcome, Doctor.

The doctor was heading out of the kitchen to go talk to Heather when Debra shouted out. Hey, Doctor! The doctor stopped dead in his tracks and turned around. Yes, Debra, what is it? Can you come back here for just a minute? Doctor Waulborough made his way back into the kitchen and stood in front of Debra.

Doctor, I just thought you should know this. I don’t want to tell you how to do your job, but I think it’s important to note that Heather is the only one Robert knows at this point. Doctor Waulborough took a deep frustrating sigh. I realize that, Debra, he said. I know the facts, he continued. I’m sorry, Doctor, Debra said. It’s okay, Debra. I know how concerned you are. He recognizes you though, Debra said. Doctor Waulborough laughed. That’s because I aggravate him, he said. Debra chuckled. You’re right about that, she said. What’s your point, Debra? Well, Doctor, I don’t think it would be such a bad idea to allow Heather to try something bold with Robert. She’s his only connection, which would mean that she would have an excellent chance of helping Robert, no matter what the plan she has come up with. I think just her staying here with him would be enough to help him, and I think whatever she intends to say, he will listen intensely to whatever it is. Good point, Debra, but that’s why I need to know specifically what she intends to say to him, but you’re right, if anyone can bring him around, it would be Heather.

Doctor Waulborough made his way into the living room to talk to Heather. He found her sitting on the arm of Robert’s chair holding his hand when he arrived. Robert, how are you, sir? the doctor asked as he leaned over Robert’s chair. Fine, Doc, just fine, Robert said. His pride caused him to seethe inside whenever the doctor arrived. Once again, like with Heather, he didn’t feel the need for anyone to have to come and check on his well being. Robert, I’m going to talk with your daughter for a moment and then I’ll be back to check on you, okay. Robert didn’t respond, he just jerked his head the other way, facing the fire.

Heather and Doctor Waulborough made their way into the kitchen, passing Debra along the way who had Robert’s medicine in hand. Debra leaned over Robert, with the medicine in one hand and a glass of water in the other. Okay, Robert, time for your medicine, she said. I don’t need it, Robert snapped back. Now, Robert, you know you have to take it. We go over this every night, you know you have no choice, now here, open up. As Debra was bringing her hand closer to Robert’s mouth, Robert swung his arm toward Debra, the collision of their two arms caused the medicine to fly into the air and land onto the wooden floor. Debra became frustrated. Robert, come on, why must you do this every night? she asked. Debra tried a tactic in order for Robert to down his medicine. You want to see Carrie Ann tonight, don’t you? she asked. What does that have to do with my medicine? Robert asked. Well, if you don’t take your medicine you will not get to see her, Debra said. Robert stood straight up in his chair. You can’t do that! he insisted. No medicine, no granddaughter, Robert. Debra knew it was a long shot, but she felt it was the only way to get him to cooperate. It worked. Robert took the medicine. He always figured it was for his physical health and nothing more. Robert looked at Debra with a mean expression on his face. Bribery, you know you shouldn’t be a nurse, you should be a dictator, he told her. Debra could only laugh at that remark as she left the living room and went back into the kitchen.

Before you tell me what you are so eager to tell me, Heather, how do you think your father is doing? the doctor asked. He’s so in denial. The stubbornness only makes things worse, he won’t eat, he won’t let anyone help him, it’s just frustrating. But you know, Heather, that reminding him that he is indeed sick, especially telling him that he doesn’t remember anything only makes things worse. So Debra told you what I said to him tonight, I see. Yes, she did. Heather, you must be careful with your words around him, he’s in a very delicate state right now. He doesn’t need a reminder of why he’s so depressed. I know, Doc, and I feel so bad for saying it, I just got so frustrated. I realized how bad it was after I said it, but by then it was too late. I know, Heather, this illness works on a family’s patience. It makes me kind of concerned, Heather, because Debra also told me that you plan on talking to him for the next several days about something. Yes, Doctor, that’s what I need so desperately to talk to you about. He needs my mother. I mean, I know he needs me, and I know I’m the only one he can remember, but my mom is the love of his life. If he can just remember her, and his past, I think he could come around. I need just a couple of days to jar his memory, to remind him that his one true love is waiting for him, and that he’s not alone, which is how he thinks of himself right now. And you think by telling him about his past that that will bring him around? Yes, I do, Doc. He thinks right now that he is alone. He told me himself tonight that he’s lonely. He doesn’t think he has anyone in his life, which is the farthest thing from the truth. I mean, Doc, why does he only remember me? Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great feeling to know that he hasn’t forgotten me, but why is it just me? Well, Heather, when dealing with this type of illness, people such as your father tend to cling to one certain event in their lives. They take one single occurrence from all the things that have gone on in their lifetime, and they grab hold of that event like a polar bear taking a hold of its prey, and they don’t let go of it. Your father can remember you because he identifies you with a certain event in his past that involves you. Got it, Doctor. I understand, that even makes this plan of mine even much more important. If he can remember certain events from his past then maybe he will remember my mom, it seems simple, right? But you must be careful, Heather. Doing what you’re planning on doing can trigger deep emotions within him. It could very easily backfire on you. But, Doctor, time is running out, I just don’t see any other option. I want him to know how loved he is, how successful his life truly was, that he’s not a waste, or a burden on anyone. Tell me about this plan of yours, Heather.

For the next several minutes Heather went into great detail about her plan as she told the doctor everything. The doctor grew more and more concerned with each passing minute as he heard how the plan would unfold. Heather, you must be careful how you choose your words, you mustn’t upset him. But, Doctor, I’m going to tell him about everything, and it’s not all rosy. And that’s what worries me, Heather. I tell you what, because it is you that is going to be telling him all of this, there is a slight, but remote possibility that you could pull it off. Heather clasped her hands to her chest with great intensity. So you think it will work? she asked. No, I didn’t say it will work, I said that there is a remote possibility it will work. Give me a percentage, Doc. I can’t do that, Heather. You have to understand that we’re dealing with the mind here. The mind is a very tricky thing. There is just no way I can stand here and predict how his mind will react to what he hears, it’s just impossible. But, Doc, you’re one of the most renowned experts in this field; if anyone would know if this will work it would be you. Heather, there’s just so much we don’t know about your father’s condition, much less how his brain will react to news from his past. I just can’t tell you with certainty that it will work. But as I said earlier, it is you that will be telling him all this, so that’s what you have going for you. I know, Doc, and that’s why I’m going to do it. I believe that if he does get upset that I will be the only one who can turn him around. And you have Debra here as well. Like I said, Heather, just be careful in what you say. Observe closely as your telling him all this. See how he reacts so that you can stop when need be. Sure, Doctor Waulborough, believe me, we have invested a lot of time into this venture, my mother and I, I know what to do. Just be careful, Heather. I think it’s good that you’re going to be staying with him the entire time as you’re doing this, that will be a plus. So you’re saying I can do this, Doctor? Well, I have my reservations, but sure, Heather, go ahead. Heather, instantly upon hearing the doctor say that, gave him a big hug. Oh, thank you, Doc, she said. But remember, Heather, observe how he reacts to all that you’re telling him, don’t push it, the doctor warned. Yes, Doctor, Heather said.

As Heather and Doctor Waulborough finished their conversation, the phone rang. Heather, it’s for you! Debra yelled from the hallway. She had answered the phone from her room, where she had spent the entire time while Heather and Doctor Waulborough talked in the kitchen.

Hello, Heather said upon placing the phone to her ear. Heather, how are things going over there? Mom, I can’t talk right now. I just want to know how your father is doing, how is he, Heather? He’s had kind of a rough night, but all in all, he’s fine. Did he remember Carrie Ann? Mom, I really don’t want to talk about it right now, I’ll be home shortly, we can talk about it then. Will you at least tell him hi for me? Mom, I’m not sure that’s such a good idea, you know, on the eve of our plan and all. Yes, you’re right I guess. I just miss him something awful. I just want him to know that I’m thinking about him. Mom, the plan will work, don’t worry. We’ll talk tonight, I have to go now, Mom. Okay, Dear, bye. Bye, Mom.

Heather finished up her conversation with her mother and then proceeded upstairs to check on Carrie Ann and Brian. This gave Doctor Waulborough a chance to spend some one on one time with Robert in the living room. So, Robert, you say you’re doing fine? Cut the crap, Doc, just give me the once over and be gone. The doctor gave a crooked grin. Okay, your attitude seems to be as I remember it, the doctor said. Do you still wake up confused, Robert? How do you know about that? Has my daughter been telling on me? No, Robert, you told me that yourself during my last visit. Oh, yeah, it comes and goes. I haven’t been confused in the last couple of weeks though. What about when you go to bed, are you confused then? What about, Doc? You know, what day it is, where you are, what your name is, things such as that. Doc, I’m not a moron, I know my own name. Sure, Robert, okay, I just had to ask, the doctor said as he examined Robert’s eyes and heart. So, is there anything new you want to tell me, Robert? About what? Robert asked. I don’t know, about your life, what’s been going on around you, anything new happened since we last chatted. Well, I just found out tonight that I have a granddaughter, that’s something new isn’t it. What’s really wrong with me, Doc? Robert, you’re just forgetting a lot of things, some important, some not. Have you noticed any changes around the house the last couple of weeks? Like what? Robert asked. I don’t know; say different people hanging around, or an absence of some people in the house. The doctor was obviously trying to find out