The North Wing of Sunset Manor: No Peas and Carrots, Please

By Mary B. Blalock

For sixty-one years, Maggie Kahne has been taken care of by the men in her life; first her beloved father and then her husband, Kennedy Kahne. Now, with both of them gone, she is faced with the fact that she does not know how to live her own life without having someone else take care of her. Spoiled and pampered, the aging southern belle has no other option than to move to Sunset Manor where she will be taken care of but at what cost?
For Maggie, aging means losing everything her way of life, her looks, her freedom, and herself. How could she have let this happen? Reluctantly, she moves in, determined to find a way to get her old life back. But how will she do that?
This cant be the end for her this life amongst old people and the day to day drudge of routines and rocking chairs. Maggie craves excitement, parties, and attention!
Her outlook begins to change when she meets John Dover. Impressed by his good looks, cool manner, and no-nonsense attitude, she openly flirts with him and sets out to win his heart, and hopefully, return to her previous lifestyle!

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Jul 16, 2009
• ISBN: 9781440142468

Mary B. Blalock

A retired mother of five, grandmother and great-grandmother, Mary B. Blalock spends her free time writing, gardening, and working word puzzles. She is the author of two previous novellas, The North Wing of Sunset Manor and Three Months in Maine, and is currently working on an upcoming book of short stories. She resides in Cowpens, South Carolina.

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The North Wing of

Sunset Manor

No Peas and Carrots, Please

Mary B. Blalock

iUniverse, Inc.

New York Bloomington

The North Wing of Sunset Manor

No Peas and Carrots, Please

Copyright © 2009 by Mary B. Blalock.

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.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

iUniverse

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Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any Web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

ISBN: 978-1-4401-4248-2 (pbk)

ISBN: 978-1-4401-4247-5 (dj)

ISBN: 978-1-4401-4246-8 (ebk)

iUniverse rev. date: 7/10/2009

Contents

Prelude

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Epilogue

Happiness. We all want it, covet it and dream of it. We seek it in the most unlikely places … the faces of our acquaintances, the hearts of our friends, the infatuation of a hopeful lover … but, until we look deep inside our own selves, we will not find gratification. For locked away within the frames of our own minds, it lies in wait, and we all have the ability to unleash it’s magic, at any age.

M. B. B.

Prelude

Far away from the hustle and bustle of busy city sidewalks, the undeveloped countryside of Blacktop County stretched for miles, breathing a sweet breath of innocence and nostalgia. The widespread panorama had remained untouched as it struggled to preserve an era gone by.

With a diminishing population of two hundred ninety-six, Mud Ridge, Georgia could be any small community in the USA. Barely on the map and without an interstate within a seventy-mile radius, it’s an idyllic paradise for those seeking a gentler way of life. Several old money families and hardy farmers abide in this quaint little hidey-hole and although their paths rarely crossed, there are no strangers amongst them. Those with bank accounts reaching six-figure digits are the backbone of the community, while the laboring farmers are responsible for its survival.

Downtown main street consists of five buildings; a local café and the Farmers Bank sat on either side of Doc Massey’s office, with the sheriff’s office directly across the street. A sighting of the tall steeple from the Baptist church is the first indication one has reached their intended destination and it is the last thing they see through the rear view mirror as they depart.

Sixty-one year old Maggie Kahne had grown up in Mud Ridge, pampered and sheltered under the protective arm of a father who doted on her. Easily the most sought-after girl within five adjacent counties, she learned early on how to flirt her way through high school, and subsequently, through life.

She attended college in South Carolina, and it was no surprise when her father bought a second home in the historic town just to be near his little girl, as he knew she would not be able to cope with the unfamiliar calamities she was sure to face.

Relying heavily on her good looks and appealing nature to open doors of opportunity, she accepted every invitation to social outings with any real significance. Surrounding herself with young men of promise and friends of influence, she wrapped them around her finger as she flirted her way into their hearts. Her presence brought a burst of scurried activity; old men vying for her attention, whispers of envy from the ladies, and suitors clamoring for her favors.

It was at one of these outings that Maggie met Kennedy Kahne. He was fifteen years her senior; a man of stature, good looks, wealth, and the most eligible bachelor in all of Charleston County. She was impressed by the ease and confidence in which he conducted himself, while he helplessly fell under the spell of her enticing ways.

Quickly becoming inseparable, he offered a proposal of marriage. Her father’s health failing, he knew Maggie would need someone to look after her, and it was with great relief that he gave his blessing. He regretted having spoiled her and never letting her take the responsibilities for her actions.

Mr. Kahne had the ability and prestige to assure him that his daughter would continue to live without any disruption of her lifestyle. The marriage would give her a sense of security and protection along with the nobility in which she was accustomed.

Maggie’s father passed away, and within months she had gone from daddy’s little girl to Mr. Kahne’s little darling. He continued to spoil her as her Daddy had, giving in to her every wish and desire. She consumed all his attention, which he happily lavished upon her.

She reveled in her new role as Mrs. Kahne. She entertained her husband’s associates with an air of elegance, as well as hosting parties for the socialites of Charleston. Her new acquaintances were all taken by her beauty and pleasing glow of self-esteem, and she exulted in their obvious appreciation and interest. Traveling abroad, she charmed audiences with a soft southern drawl, exaggerated somewhat by her schooling in Charleston. The couple maintained her father’s old homestead in Mud Ridge, and it was still where Maggie called home. They came here often to recoup between their travels and to stay abreast of the goings-on in the rural community. Occasionally, on a Sunday afternoon, they went for a drive, stopping at the local café for a bite to eat before heading home.

The country road led them past a huge old plantation house, and Maggie stared out her window and wondered about the folks who lived inside. Owned by Cecil and Dolly Poole, Sunset Manor was a much needed and well respected place, but for some reason, Maggie felt a cold chill every time they passed this way. Although her heart swelled with apprehension, she was mesmerized with curiosity and turned her head to watch until it was no longer in sight.

Age had taken its toll on Mr. Kahne, and Maggie tried to hide her concern. She noticed that he seemed more content to settle in front of the TV than to go for a stroll … happier when he was reading about some exotic place than actually traveling there … and when they attended the elegant balls of Charleston, he found gratification in the company of his comrades while she danced the night away with a long list of hopefuls.

For forty years they had enjoyed a life of contentment and affluence, and when Mr. Kahne passed away, Maggie was totally unprepared for the changes that would come.The festive activities dwindled, and she spent much of her time alone. She knew nothing about his business, nothing about maintaining a home, and soon realized she knew very little about anything.

Learning to cope alone, she struggled through each day without a plan. She had already been in several mishaps … little things that seemed innocent enough, but had ended with near disastrous results.

And the outcome of her actions had landed her in the back seat of an old station wagon on her way to desolation … Sunset Manor. Cecil tried to make small talk as he drove down the highway, humming on like an annoying bee, and she shut out the drone of his voice.

How could things have gone so wrong, so fast?

It couldn’t have happened in any other town! Only within the confines of an unsophisticated community among well-meaning neighbors, could it happen. Here, Mud Ridge, Georgia.

Chapter One

The old man groaned as he shuffled across the lawn, a yard rake in his hand and a pair of worn gloves hanging from his back pocket. He examined a broken bough dangling from the freshly bloomed azalea bush and carefully removed the damaged limb. Moving about with difficulty, he spoke softly as he worked, both to the plants and himself.

There you go, he said, his voice soothing. Now you can get on with your business. Everything’s going to be alright, now.

He moved slowly, stooping to avoid the branches from the Weeping Willow hanging low to the ground.

How are you today, Mr. Willow? he asked, the respect clearly in his voice. Me? Oh, I guess I’m ok. These old bones have done about all they came here to do. Yeah, I know, you’re as old as I am. You and me go back a long way, and we’re both starting to look a little green.

He chuckled, I heard that! I know you’re supposed to be green. But, all the same, you look a little under the weather to me.

He leaned against the tree and examined the rough exterior with concern.

Aw, now, didn’t mean to make you worry none. I’ll look out for you, same as always. A little 10-10 ought to fix you right up, and you’ll make it through another season just fine. Don’t think I can say the same for myself, but I’m not complaining.

Raymond Drake had been here since the doors opened, nearly two decades ago.

He was in his late sixties when he got the news that Sunset Manor was in need of a groundskeeper. He applied for the position and happily packed his bags when the position was offered to him. He was the home’s oldest and most respected resident, and had watched many people come and go. He took the youngsters under his wing and showed them the ropes.

Come on in here and get out of that sun! Dolly called to him. It’s too hot to be outside today! Come on in, now, and I’ll get you a glass of cold tea.

He didn’t argue. It was no use anyway. Dolly always had the final word.

He removed his hat as he entered the kitchen and carelessly hung it on the back of his chair.

Morning Smithfields, he greeted the couple at the table. No one called them by their first names … ever!

You wouldn’t want a slice of apple pie to go with that glass of tea, would you?

The rushed words came from a breathless voice, and with a wide grin, Drake turned to face her.

Sure would, Claire, he agreed, motioning to his stomach. I think some apple pie would hit the spot … that little hungry spot right here.

Claire smiled, already spooning the pie onto a plate. She knew him well enough to know he would not refuse. Her years spent at Sunset Manor had not gone by without her coming to know their wants and needs.

At the tender age of fifty-five, Claire was the youngest person, other than the Pooles, to call Sunset Manor home. She had become indispensable, and Dolly wondered how she ever got along without her. She was naturally pretty, and no one understood why she had chosen a life of celibacy, although all had heard the rumors of a young man when she was barely thirteen. She could be a little scatterbrained, but it only added to her personality.

They had all come from different walks of life, and each one had their own reasons for living here. Some came for their need of constant medical attention, some for the retirement benefits, and for others, it was no more than a desire to escape a lifetime of loneliness. It was here that they had found their haven of peace, making this their home, and consequentially, a small band of friends became a family.

Gathered around the table, Dolly bowed her head as Claire prayed for blessings on the food and those who ate it, and she felt her aunt would be pleased with the way she had chosen to use the home.

Aunt Lila had blessed them with this wonderful old house, and God had blessed them with the opportunity to give back to those who had long since given all. Their respect, dignity, and above all else, love!

Quietly, Dolly pushed her chair from the table and left the room. No one noticed her absence as it was part of her daily routine.

Her steps slowed as she neared the South Wing. The tormented moans coming from behind the closed door tore at her heart, and she stopped to offer a prayer for peace and strength. With little effort, she put on her brightest smile and entered the room.

And so life went on, placid and unpretentious, each day a repetition of the day before and leaving nothing to chance. It was a routine they had come to rely on … days of uninterrupted tranquility and long nights without dreams. A routine that gave them a sense of stability and purpose, each knowing exactly what they could expect from the other, and with an understanding of limitations, they were seldom disappointed.

It could have gone on indefinitely … the small circle of family in their own Eden of Paradise … but the unsuspecting Sunset Manor was not immune to growth, and the relaxed sleepy lifestyle of the golden age was about to wake up.

*

Deep in thought as he approached Mud Ridge, the intense colors of autumn left little impression on John Dover. He wondered if he had made the right decision, agreeing with his doctor to make this move.

After losing his wife to a sudden illness, his doctor recommended a few months in the country. A flexible routine, fresh air and lots of sunshine would help him to make sense of it all, while giving him ample time to sort out his options. Sunset Manor, John was told, was filled with senior citizens … folks just like himself … needing a little extra care and understanding, and would help him to put his life back in prospective.

At this point in his life, John didn’t care where he lived.

He had to smile when he saw the sign that read, You are leaving Mud Ridge town limits. Last chance to stock up.

He recalled his doctor’s words, If you blink, you will be on your way out of town without ever knowing you got there!

Trees lined the narrow highway, luring him through a tunnel of falling leaves, and he was surprised by the temptation to explore what lie beyond.

The warm sun streamed through the windshield, and he rolled down the window of the rental car. He took in deep breaths of clean fresh air and waved his hand to feel the wind blowing between his fingers. Moving along at a snail’s pace, he was in no rush to reach his reluctant destination.

He slowed down as he passed a school that taught all twelve grades and tried to visualize what it must be like to have lived one’s entire life in such a backward little community.

He scanned the extensive fields, now barren from recently harvested crops. He found the openness of the land incomparable to the tiny rows of houses in the suburbs, and the scarcely traveled highway a pleasant change from bottlenecking traffic of the city. The inherent beauty of mother earth brought harmony to his heart, and feeling the presence of God, he lifted his eyes to the sky and welcomed the peace settling within.

A sign pointed to his destination, and he completed the turn before pulling off the graveled road to stop, uncertain of the prospects before him.

He prowled through the glove compartment and found the brochure his doctor had given him. Once again, he read the information about how this place came to be, and he wondered what he hoped to gain from the sprawling acres of isolation, or the antiquated halls of Sunset Manor.

Sighing heavily, he leaned his head out the window to look around.

The magnificent, yet fragile estate faced him. Time and weather had left its mark, and still she stood tall and poised, presenting a slight promise of better days to come. His eyes swept over the rambling countryside, and in the distance, he saw a man walking toward him. He started the car and drove up to the house.

A strong handshake greeted him.

Welcome, welcome! You’re John, I suppose? the man asked. Raymond Drake, here. Just call me Drake … they all do. We’ll have you all fixed up in no time. You’re going to like it here. We hadn’t had any complaints, yet.

He moved automatically, opening the door of the car and grabbing the smaller of the two suitcases.

Have any trouble finding the place? he asked.

"No, not really. It is kind of