A Canadian Rose

By Shirley Smith

Rose Hilory is thrilled when she receives a promotion at the Data Computer Company. Finally, her hard work has paid off, and she moves to Blue Ridge, Alberta. In addition to an increase in pay and responsibility, the company has provided a house to live in rent-free. This is not an ordinary house. With its computerized components, Rose finds surprises in every corner, and some of them are disconcerting. Also troublesome are her mysterious boss and an employee who is determined to see Rose fail.

Even though shes glad for the move, Roses memory remains vivid, and she yearns for the love she lost more than ten years ago. She can still envision the growling of the cougar when it attacked her horse, Queenie, as she spent the evening with her boyfriend, Donavin. Even more devastating was the reaction of Donavins parents; they disapproved of their son riding with a simple country girl. His family had packed up without even a goodbye. She never saw him again.

Determined, Rose tries to move her life forward, but strange events intervene. Her life, her job, and her welfare could be at stake if her enemies get their way in A Canadian Rose.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Feb 19, 2009
• ISBN: 9781440126284

Shirley Smith

Shirley Smith is CEO of My Kota Bear, a non-profit organization that brings awareness and support to NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) families. She travels and speaks on issues of Black female mortality and premature births to educate and encourage parents and offer guidance to women who have struggled with postpartum depression. She lives in New Jersey with her family.

Book preview

Chapter One

The golden glow of sunset settled on Rose as she gazed across the grassy meadow gently tossing in the evening breeze. This summer has passed too quickly, she sighed. It was challenging, yet interesting, working for the computer company in Eastern Canada. Perhaps the biggest challenge was dealing with Leaf Sayers, a married man with six kids who tried to hassle her around the office every day. It sure made her country home with her parents a real relief and gave her a chance to spend some time with her twin sister, Jenny. This was her first holiday in years. She had been constantly working and studying trying to improve her career opportunities, and now, only another two weeks, and it’s back to the old grind of nine to five. The thoughts of Leaf Sayers made her grip her fists in anger. Oh, she sighed, consoling her self with the thought that at least it was a good paying job. If only I could get the job opening up here in Blue Ridge, she mused. The company wouldn’t be hiring until the end of fall, and if only she were lucky would she be chosen for the job. But she’d decided, Why not try? They can only say, no. She breathed deeply as the evening air filled her well developed bosom that heaved with each breath. Sauntering down the worn path to the creek, Rose made a very attractive picture as she came closer to the meandering water’s edge. Standing there in complete silence she became one with her surroundings.

A little spotted fawn caught her eye. Rose stood there, soaking in the beauty of nature spread out before her, taking mental pictures to carry back to Ontario with her.

Suddenly, she found herself giggling about the fun Jenny and she had had as children at this very same creek as they splashed and quarreled about who was the Queen of the Creek. Bringing her thoughts back to reality, she found herself on the biggest rock in the creek. I’m the Queen! she said, but somehow it wasn’t as thrilling anymore. Thoughts of Jenny married, with four children, filled her mind. Her sister seemed so happy and contented with her husband, Clyde Maxwell, on their sprawling ranch in Alberta cattle country. Just three quarters of an hour’s drive from her Mom and Dad’s, Ellie and Bud Hilory, meant that Jenny could visit often. Well, maybe she’s Queen of the Creek after all; I’m just a princess, I guess.

As dusk turned to darkness, Rose began to jog. It was an easy half mile run. As she jogged, the fresh country air filled her lungs causing a sense of freedom. Her long hair floating behind her gave the feeling that she could fly. Such fulfillment! She had learned to relieve a lot of stress by jogging.

As she came closer to the driveway, she spotted Leaf Sayers’ car in front of the sprawling ranch house. Oh really! Rose’s voice spat out, immediately upset as she slowed to a walk. What next? I suppose he’s come to tell me I’m needed back at the office. No! I will not go back! she thought. I still have two weeks of holidays left.

Her train of thought left her as her Mother called, Rose, Rose come quickly! Not that she wanted to hurry, but Rose waved.

Okay, she answered and jogged up to the veranda.

Guess what Rose? Her mother’s voice was filled with a note of excitement. You got the job in Blue Ridge and Mr. Sayers from down East is here to tell you all about it. He’s also on holidays heading for British Columbia to catch up with his wife and children that are already at his folks.

Rose smiled as she entered the house, just a bit puzzled but happy. Rose tried to figure out why Leaf would be here. After all, she never told Leaf about applying for the job in Alberta. Wondering just what she was going to say to her boss, she excused herself saying, Mom, I need a minute to freshen up.

Okay, Rose, we’ll be in the living room, her mom replied as she walked towards the living room.

Explain your way around this one, Rose, dear, Rose whispered to herself. She reached for a face cloth, run cool water over it and washed her face as she studied her image in the mirror. She quickly started to brush her hair as lots of reasons for his being there filled her mind. She just winked at her own reflection and smiled. Quietly, she walked through the kitchen and dining room to the living room.

Trying to act surprised, she entered the room where Leaf was waiting.

Well, hello Rose, Mr. Sayers stood greeting her as she entered the room.

Hello, Mr. Sayers. I see you’ve already met my parents, Rose smiled.

Yes, Leaf answered adding, Sure can see where you get your good looks and charm, he glanced at Ellie.

Her mother smiled, You’ll excuse Bud and me and we’ll prepare some tea. her mother gestured as they left Rose and Mr. Sayers alone.

Well, my sweet Rose. You are leaving us. I hope you’ll be happy way out here, he shrugged adding, sure is going to be hard breaking in a new girl! he finished, winking at her.

Oh, by the way, Mr. Sayers, how did you find out? She questioned, keeping their conversation as impersonal as possible. He just smiled,

Oh, silly question, especially for you. It’s pretty elementary with computers. He just sighed, slightly shaking his head. I guess you need a change of scenery, and Blue Ridge is just the place. Not to mention it’s down home country for you. Head Office was very pleased to get your application. Congratulations Miss Executive Manageress!

Rose gasped, I really made it! She smiled.

Yep! Right to the top, Missy! It seems your promotion’s long over due, he reached out patting Rose’s shoulder.

I really got it! Rose said quickly adding I can’t believe it! But it was all true, she realized as all that he had said started to sink in.

However, Leaf Sayers voice interrupted her thoughts, since I didn’t get any notice of your leaving down East, he paused and Rose wondered what he’d say next.

What? she asked.

Well, I’m sure you’d consider taking you new job promotion seriously enough that you’d cut your holidays a week short.

Of course, Rose replied quickly.

Good, he continued, that should give you ample time to relocate and get yourself ready to start out here in Blue Ridge Alberta. Rose couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Leaf was being so generous. It was like a dream come true with the transfer and the promotion all at the same time.

Rose, Rose, Leaf’s voice repeated.

Yes, I think I’m really lucky, Leaf, thank you for coming and delivering the message personally. I hope I can do the job well.

I’m sure you can, Leaf offered with his usual charming smile. Now that you’re executive manager, we’ll still get a chance to meet up once in awhile, he said with a wink and sly devilish smile. Rose quickly swallowed, recognizing a familiar look on his face. She was surprised that he’d be so bold in her parents’ house. Rose glanced to see them returning with the tea and snacks.

Well, now it’s time for tea, her mother smiled as her dad followed behind with a tray. Isn’t this exciting, Dad? Rose remarked, smiling as they all sat down.

Yep, it sure is, but Mom and I knew you would make it to the top, he grinned, taking a sip of his tea.

Rose was so happy she could hardly drink her tea or taste the cookie she was nibbling on. She started thinking of all the changes that were about to take place. Moving, transferring, the promotion; her mind was reeling; a new apartment.

Rose, Rose! Her mother’s voice raised as she nudged Rose’s arm, interrupting her thoughts. Rose’s mind snapped back to her cookie, half in and half out of her mouth. Mr. Sayers is leaving dear; Dad is seeing him out! Rose quickly set her cookie down and went to say goodbye to Leaf. He was no longer her boss, but just a fellow manager working for the same company, ha!

By the way, Leaf, who will be getting my old job now? She watched him turn to look back at her, as a quiet look came over his face.

Leslie, my wife, She’s been moody all summer with all the children in school. He paused, I know she’s eager to get back on the job. But please don’t tell anyone, his face lightened up with a mischievous look. I’m planning to surprise her in about a week. That’ll give her just enough time to get a maid to take care of things at home. Knowing Leslie, she’s probably got someone already picked out, just in case but, she doesn’t know she’s getting a job. He smiled, happy with his secret surprise for his wife.

Yes, knowing Leslie, she probably has, Rose acknowledged nodding her head. Okay, bye for now Rose, he glanced at his watch as he walked out of the door.

See you, bye, Rose replied happily and waved. She watched him as he drove out the long drive way until he was gone. She sat on the bench on the veranda trying to digest the evening’s news. It sure was going to be nice working here in Blue Ridge and being so close to home. The house door swung open and her mother stepped outside to join her.

Well, Rose dear, you must be happy and excited.

Oh, I am Mom! There are just so many things to do all of a sudden. I’ve got some phone calls to make back down to New Port, and I must go into the city tomorrow and find a place to stay.

But, dear, it’s only an hour’s drive from here, her mom interrupted adding, Why don’t you stay at home here for a while so you aren’t so rushed?

Of course! Thanks, Mom, I think I will, she hugged her mom. Now I must get on the phone before it gets too late to call Phyllis. Rose walked over and opened the door to walk inside.

You will still go to Jenny and Clyde’s Saturday evening for the barbeque? Her mom questioned, adding, Jenny and Clyde will be so happy for you, she finished with a smile as they went inside.

Yes, of course! I wouldn’t miss that. Maybe we can surprise them with the big news!

Too late, her mom whispered, quietly adding, Dad’s already spreading the news on the phone. Rose and her mom laughed. Rose knew he couldn’t wait to brag about her. That’s what her dad was best at when it concerned her. The kitchen door shut and the house was quiet.

I think I’ll make my phone call to Phyllis and then get to bed. I’ll have to fly back tomorrow, pack and get all the loose ends taken care of. I should be back home by Friday night, Rose finished.

Okay, Rose I’m going to see what Liza is up to. Good night. Her mom quickly walked out the back entrance of the kitchen. Liza was an old friend of her mother’s and had worked for them for as long as Rose could remember, while her husband, Chuck Bicken, the foreman, helped her dad run the ranch. Rose entered the living room to pick up her tea and cookies. There was a small note of paper on her plate. She read, Dear Rose, I have to check the cattle and horses. I’m sure you’ve got some calls to make and already have tomorrow planned out. I’ll see you in the morning. Love Dad. Rose folded the paper and placed it into her jean’s pocket. Her dad always seemed to know just what she’d do next. Carefully she picked up a teacup and cookie and carried it along to the kitchen table where she’d use the phone. Rose decided to call Phyllis, her best friend and landlady, to explain the situation to Phyllis and perhaps she wouldn’t be required to pay an extra month’s rent. She dialed Phyllis’s phone number.

Hello, Phyllis Larne Apartments.

Hello Phyllis, this is Rose.

Oh, congratulations Rose, Phyllis’s voice spoke up excitedly.

How did you know? Rose asked.

Oops! Phyllis’s voice paused.

That’s okay, Rose’s voice sighed. I suppose a computer told you everything about my move already.

Yes, exactly, Phyllis added, and since your big transfer and the promotion has come so quickly, the company is taking care of the rent tab for you plus moving details. According to my letter, you also received a letter that confirms your landlady has been given notice. They do that for management staff you know! Phyllis and Rose both laughed.

I suppose you’ll be looking for a new renter now? Rose questioned.

Yes, and he’s already agreed to take your apartment. Lucky for me you’re gone on holidays because he’s pretty handsome and I showed him your place today, Rose. I hope you don’t mind? Phyllis’s voice was both apologetic and unusually happy and care free.

No, of course not, Phyllis but I’m sure glad I straightened up before I left!

Your place is always so neat and tidy all the time. I’m sure you never mess anything up anyway. Phyllis’s voice spoke quickly. That made Rose feel good inside.

Well, I’m hoping to catch an early flight tomorrow morning. You can tell me more about this handsome guy who will be living next door to you. Rose’s voiced teased.

Okay, Rose, I’ll see you tomorrow. Good night

Bye, Rose hung up the phone. She heard a double tap and she looked to see her dad shaking his head as she just smiled.

You’re goin’ to be stuck in the kitchen doing dishes for many days to pay the phone charges on that call, he teased. Rose smiled, knowing well that Liza wouldn’t hear of Rose doing the dishes. That luxury was all Liza’s.

Yes Daddy, I guess so, Rose responded as she got up and hugged her Dad.

Mom tells me you’ll be staying at home with us for a while, his pleased voice indicated that he was truly happy to have her home again as he set his cowboy hat on the shelf.

Only until I find a place to stay over in Blue Ridge, she replied as she set her teacup in the sink and started to walk out of the kitchen.

Okay, Rose, that’s fine, but you can stay as long as you like. After all, this is your home, you know, he smiled at her and slightly nodded his head. Rose nodded and yawned. Think I’ll turn in now. I want to get an early flight back east tomorrow and pack up.

Yeah, her dad smiled and winked, Liza and Chuck have been planning a trip down east to see her sister, he spoke thoughtfully. Rose looked at her dad. And they just happen to be taking your plane! she smirked.

Yes, he nodded, they’re going to also be busy helping you move your things home! he said firmly, finalizing the decision. Rose knew there was no point in arguing with her dad.

Okay, thanks. She yawned, deciding just to be happy and thankful for everyone’s help. Nodding her head in approval she smiled, Good night, and continued smiling as she walked through the living room and upstairs to her room.

Something strange is going on. Rose just knew it as she changed into her nightwear and crawled into bed. What is it? Things are moving along way too quickly, she yawned. I’m just too tired to figure it out now, she whispered out loud adjusting her blankets and closing her eyes.

The breakfast bell wakened Rose. As she stretched she noticed it was only 6:30 AM. It was the early rise bell. It had taken so long to get to sleep that it seemed like only seconds until the bell rang.

After having a quick shower she finally managed to wipe the cobwebs of sleep from her eyes. She dressed quickly in her blue jeans and short sleeve cotton print top. Carefully she combed her long hair, fixing it back with a barrette. She looked for her shoes but they weren’t where she had left them beside her bed.

Huh! She muttered in surprise that her shoes were no where to be found. Not in the closet, not by the bed, not anywhere on the floor in her room. When she looked under the bed she found her old cowboy boots. Oh! Her eyes filled with tears as painful memories flashed through her mind. These darned old boots, she whispered while wiping the tears from her eyes. She glanced furtively once more for her shoes, but to no avail. Looking back at her boots, she decided to put them on. Her dad certainly seemed to be up to something. Never before had her shoes been missing. The last time she had worn these boots was when she loved to ride horses every morning before breakfast. Painful memories came reeling back. Thoughts of Queenie, her favorite horse and the terrible accident at the ridge just beyond the pasture, brought a new sadness to her face.

A quick knock came on the door. Rose, you up? Breakfast is getting cold. Her mother’s voice came from the other side of the door.

Yes, Rose cleared her voice, adding, I’ll be right down! In silence she sat trying to make some sense of what was going on! There were too many coincidences; the surprise of the transfer and the promotion, company paying for my rent, Liza and Chuck helping pack, and now these boots. What is going on? she wondered as she checked her appearance in the mirror. These old boots! She rubbed them with some paper towel to try to polish them a little. Yes, something is definitely going on she decided, but what? Rose descended the stairs carefully, trying not to look too upset.

Good morning, Rose said.

Good morning, Rose, answered both Liza and her mother casually. They were both very occupied with the leather and hardware supplies order that Clyde and her dad wanted to get for repairing the harnesses and lines for the horses. They didn’t seem to notice her boots, so Rose just dished up her breakfast.

Lisa, I’m sure glad that you and Chuck want to help me pack. You’re so good at that sort of thing, she said sipping her coffee. Chuck is so strong he’ll have no problem moving my furniture. I’m sure Dad had plans for other things for you to pick up as well down east." She took a bite of her toast.

Not really, dear, just regular leather stuff, Liza replied pouring her self some coffee.

Besides, I’m sure Liza would like some time to visit her sister, her Mom added sitting down with her coffee so they could visit for a while. Rose went upstairs to get her overnight bag ready while her Mom and Liza continued to drink coffee and to talk about Liza’s sister, Bell, and her husband, Harley, and their trip home to Harley’s family in Ireland.

Okay, you gals ready? Chuck called out as he walked inside motioning for the thermos of coffee. Yes, I’m already, Liza smiled glancing toward the living room door way to see Rose coming back down the stairs.

Looks like were all set, Liza smiled, looking at Chuck.

Well, we best be off then, he winked at Rose’s mom and gave her a hug.

Yes, let’s get going. It’s going to be a long day, Rose said as she hugged her mom, Bye Mom.

Okay, bye you guys and take care. Rose’s mom waved as they got into the truck and headed toward her dad’s private plane waiting on the far side of the yard.

Looks like it’s going to be a nice...

Stop! Rose’s voice gasped, interrupting Chuck’s prediction of the day’s weather conditions as he instantly slammed on the breaks. A rusty colored run away mare managed to stop, whinny loudly, and rear up smack in front of the truck. Chuck just breathed in deeply, but Liza was too frightened to utter a syllable. Rose got out and walked up to the mare.

Easy babe, Rose spoke softly, got closer, and slowly reached up and grabbed the mare’s bridle. Her dad rode up beside her.

You know, I think you should reconsider ranching sweetie and swap those computers for horses. I saw a mighty pretty horse the other day, her Dad winked, slightly shaking his head.

See what I mean Chuck? My Rose has a gift with horses. Chuck grinned in approval.

See you got your cowboy boots on. Is the country getting back into your blood again? Her dad stopped talking as he leaned over from his mount and snapped a lead rope onto the horse’s bridle to bring her back over along side the truck. Chuck got out of the truck and went with her Dad to tend to the horse.

Shortly Chuck and her dad returned. Okay, the plane’s already, Chuck spoke up glancing at his watch.

Okay, I’ll see you all later, her dad grinned as he waved and watched Rose get into the plane.

Bye for now, Rose smiled and waved to her dad.

Soon they were in the air. Liza and Chuck were busy talking over their plans and general things. Sitting in the seat behind, Rose began thinking about how only her dad noticed her boots. She silently tossed her thoughts around in her mind. Hum! Think Sherlock Holms! What the heck is going on? It seemed more puzzling the more she thought about it. The sky was clear and sunny. It was a nice day for flying.

It was evening when the taxi drove up to the apartment building where Rose had been living for the last ten years.

See you in the morning, Rose yawned, and got out of the taxi which drove away taking Chuck and Liza to her sister’s. It felt kind of strange looking at the building for the last time. Only one more night, she sighed and went inside. In her apartment she put water on to boil for coffee. As she started to dial the phone, a familiar tap, tap came on the door.

Just a minute, Phyllis, Rose quickly hung up the receiver and opened her door. They embraced in a tight hug.

What am I going to do without you to visit with? Phyllis asked breathing deeply adding, It’s coffee time and I knew you’d be here about now. We’ve so little time to visit now, and I won’t be able to see you every day anymore. So empty your kettle Rose, because I’ve got a fresh pot of coffee and hot biscuits all ready. Come on Rose and tell me everything, Phyllis held the door open.

Okay, Phyllis I’ll come over in a minute. I’ve got to put a few papers in my purse. I’ll be right over, Rose finished with a smile.

Okay, Rose, but I’m only giving you five minutes or so. Then I’m coming back to drag you off for coffee. I best get back; my mom’s supposed to drop by tonight too. Phyllis smiled and left, closing the door behind her.

Rose just stared straight down at her old cowboy boots on her feet. She quickly went into her bedroom, opened the night table drawer and pulled out her old diary.

There on the inside cover was written, ‘May many rays of sunshine brighten your life as you have brightened mine.’ Love, Donavin. Many happy times flashed through her mind. Donavin and she were riding into the sunset. Donavin’s family lived just over the ridge and down a steep hill, known locally as the ridge. That’s where the tragic accident happened that dramatically changed her whole life forever. Tears filled her eyes and spilled down over her cheeks. That terrible accident on the ridge. The cougar came down and killed her horse as she and Donavin were sitting on the ridge talking as the sun set. The painful memories produced more hot tears to brim and over flow. Queenie was more than just a horse to Rose; she was Rose’s pride and joy. And as if witnessing the death of her horse wasn’t devastating enough to tear her whole world apart, there was the reaction of Donavin’s family when they found out that he was out horse back riding with a simple country girl. They couldn’t bare the thought, and she never got to see him again. The diary and faded picture was all that she had left to hold onto. She had received it in the mail from him after they had so quickly moved away. She walked into the bathroom and wiped the last of her tears away just as she heard the familiar tapping on her apartment door.

Oh no, Rose whispered as she walked out to open the door. There was Phyllis with a tray of coffee and biscuits.

Mom’s got company tonight, so I decided to bring coffee to you, Phyllis offered closing the door behind her. She knew something was wrong. What’s the matter Rose? What’s going on? You should be ecstatically happy! Phyllis paused, glancing at Rose’s old diary. That diary could only mean one thing. Oh Rose, Phyllis began, I saw you were wearing your old cowboy boots but it didn’t sink in. Sit down and have some coffee, Rose, while you tell me all about it, Phyllis spoke quietly and softly with genuine caring for her friend. Phyllis was a very close friend. Over the years she’d become as close as a sister could be.

Okay, Rose replied sipping some coffee. Listen to this, Rose began and listed off all the strange happenings since morning and the missing shoe incident. Phyllis was the only person that Rose had confided in about Donavin. Since that time in her distant past when she was nineteen she could never care for any other guy. She had lost her heart when Donavin’s family sold out, taking him and her heart along with them. No one lives over the ridge anymore. I know it was years ago, Phyllis, Rose said, but it seems like only yesterday. Why can’t I get over it? Rose sipped her coffee and wiped her eyes.

You will get over it, Phyllis spoke softly adding, Liza was probably in a hurry doing some last minute cleaning in your room before you went home for the holidays, and didn’t get your boots put back in the closet. You know Liza’s always very busy. Phyllis paused and offered Rose a biscuit.

Thanks, the biscuits are really good. Liza and Chuck will be here in the morning to help move my things. It’s turning out to be such a rushed trip, but Liza wanted to visit her sister, Bell, tonight. They will leave tomorrow to visit her husband’s family in Ireland. With all the excitement of my new job and moving in such a rush, I’m not sure what time Bell and Harley are leaving. Rose paused to take another bite of her biscuit and to sip some coffee.

Well, it sure is nice Liza and Chuck have time to give you a hand. But the company movers will also be here. Here’s my letter, Phyllis quickly pulled it out of her sweater pocket. Best read it. You have also got a letter it says, but you’ll have to take a moment and check your mail box. So, all your belongings my dear, will be packed up for you and Alberta bound before noon tomorrow, it says. Hey, and after all the time and effort you’ve gone through, I’d say you’ve worked long and hard for that promotion. I don’t think you’ve even had more than the odd weekend off in the last ten years, let alone gone home for a family visit. It’s definitely time for a change. Phyllis gave her a questioning look.

Rose just cleared her throat, Well, now that I’m finally done studying, things are going to change Phyllis. I’m going to make some big changes. Hum, I think I may even start horse back riding again. I know it won’t bring Donavin back, Rose sipped her coffee, But I do like the feel of my old boots.

That a girl, Phyllis smiled.

I’m going to stay at home with Mom and Dad for awhile. I really had my heart set on two weeks more holidays on the ranch but, she sipped her coffee, "with the transfer and promotion I’ve only got a few days left. Rose set her cup down, yawning.

Oh my, it’s getting late, Phyllis glanced at her watch, You’ve got an early morning of packing to do. I’ll see you in the morning. You feel better Rose? Phyllis looked at Rose for a reply.

Yes, thanks a lot Phyllis. I’m going to miss you so much, The tears started to fall again. Phyllis wiped her eyes too.

We can visit, silly. Phyllis picked up her tray and Rose opened the door. Goodnight Phyllis, thanks for the coffee and the ear. Rose half smiled: she was sure going to miss Phyllis.

Anytime, Phyllis offered and smiled reaching over to pat Rose’s shoulder before she walked out the door, Goodnight Rose, sleep well. Phyllis closed the door.

The doorbell rang startling Rose. She quickly got up, putting on her house coat. Yawning, she hurried to open her door. Liza and Phyllis came in first while Chuck followed behind with two men from the company movers.

You slept in Rose, here’s your coffee and toast, Phyllis said as she handed Rose a coffee mug and plate.

What time is it? Rose questioned, yawning and looking at Liza for an answer.

It’s already five thirty, Liza replied shaking her head. Chuck instructed the two movers to start hauling out the living room furniture.

Now you eat up your breakfast while I get started in the kitchen, Liza smiled. Phyllis nodded in approval, immediately giving Liza a hand with packing boxes.

Rose just sat at her kitchen table watching everyone working as if they had planned to do so for weeks.

Later on, Braden, from down the hall, came over and congratulated Rose and offered to help haul out the rest of the boxes and bedroom furniture.

Time was flying by as Liza checked everything over. That’s it Rose, Phyllis has coffee ready. I’ll go on ahead and join everyone else, Liza offered a smile.

Okay, I’ll be right there. It really hadn’t taken very long to empty what had been a well decorated apartment. Rose looked around at the emptiness. After ten years, Rose wiped a tear as she knew she was going to miss this old place. Oh well, Rose smiled. On to bigger and better things. Surely there would be big changes; Executive Manageress, she nodded to herself. It had taken a lot of dedication and determination, but she had succeeded. Rose smiled happily, nodding her head at her reflection in the mirror, giving herself a double thumbs up. I’m going to enjoy some weekends off now, and who knows? Maybe not even get another horse before the snow flies. She whispered to herself walking out closing the door of her apartment, while secretly promising to open new ones in days to come.

After enjoying some lunch with Phyllis, it was time to leave. Phyllis and Rose embraced. Take care Rose, Phyllis wiped her eyes.

You, too, Rose half smiled as she got into the taxi and waved goodbye. It didn’t take long. Her dad had called his order over the phone so Liza and Rose just waited in the taxi as Chuck ran in and brought the supplies out. It didn’t even seem to take that long at the airport and soon they were airborne for home.

Chapter 2

Oh yes, Jenny! I’m coming to the barbecue, western style! Bye. She hung up the receiver. Rose couldn’t wait to see Tex, Lee Jay, T- Jay, and Jena. Smiling, she finished unpacking and put the last of her things into the closet. Rose continued to smile, completely relaxed, ready for a fun time. There was just time for a quick shower after which she dressed in a western shirt and jeans and shined up her boots until they glistened in the sun’s rays.

Rose, Rose. Her mother called. I’m coming, Mom, she called out as she skipped down the stairs, clicking each step with her boots, just like she used to do.

Oh Rose, you look wonderful, her Mom replied.

What the heck? her dad came running from the kitchen What happened? Did someone fall? His face was full of concern. As he looked at Rose his eyes got big and twinkled.

There’s my country bumpkin, home at last. He instantly relaxed adding, All it took was that horse the other morning, I guess. He mumbled the old well known adage, You can take the boy from the country, but you can’t take the country from the boy, as he disappeared back into the kitchen.

Rose followed, Dad how about I get a horse saddled up and meet everyone over at Jenny’s? It isn’t that far. I’m sure I’ll be there in plenty of time! Rose smiled her sweetest smile and had her dad wrapped around her finger as usual.

But, her Mom interrupted, Rose, you haven’t ridden in years. Maybe you should wait until tomorrow? After all the moving and unpacking, her Mom pointed out.

Yep, sunshine, your Mom’s right. But I’m sure Clyde has a beauty you probably could get a chance to ride once we get there. With an awe, dropping from her voice, Rose decided maybe that would be best.

Along the way to Jenny’s there were many wide open spaces where you could see a long distance from the hilltops. Rose decided then and there to go back to the ridge. Before closing the last page on her long ten years of brooding and suffering over things that happened so long ago in her teens, she wanted one more visit.

The trip went quickly as they drove up the long winding drive to her sister’s house. The twins Lee Jay and T-Jay were busy playing football, running and screaming. Down towards the barns and corrals Tex was just wandering around. Upon hearing the van drive up, he went on a flat out run to the house. As they pulled up to the doorstep, Jenny and Jena were watching and waiting as Jena jumped off the veranda swing. Lee Jay and T-Jay had lots of hugs and kisses for Grandpa and Grandma. Even Liza and Chuck got the royal treatment. Rose smiled as she became the center of attention and went off to play football with the twins and Tex. Rose just waved to Jenny across the yard.

Rose sure has charm about her today, Jenny said to her mother

Yes, indeed. Something has changed about her, Liza exclaimed.

Yes, her dad smiled, I haven’t seen the countryside of that gal of mine in many years. Seems like she’s been so sophisticated, for so long, he sighed. Woman of city lights, fancy shoes and dresses, he muttered as he walked away looking for Clyde.

Dad sure seems to be tickled pink, Jenny smiled glancing at Liza as they went inside to prepare salad and buns for the barbecue. Looks like Clyde is taking Dad and Chuck on the grand tour." Jenny noticed looking out the kitchen window.

Sure some change in Rose, Jenny’s