The Guppy and the Shark

By J

Barbara Wilson is a widow and owner of the Double-T Bar Ranch in Montana living comfortably with her daughter and two loving grandchildren. The demands of running a ranch and maintaining her reputation keep her occupied, but she longs for something more.

Mike Watson is a retired widower living alone in northern Illinois. Trapped by his grief and hopelessness since his wife died of cancer, he has chosen to avoid social interactions, which worries his grown children. One day while tinkering with his van, the answer comes to him: he decides then and there to write a book and set it in the West.

Mike takes a life-changing trip from home to the wilds of Montana to do research for the book and meet the locals. There, a chance encounter with Barbara changes both of their lives.

When the lives of these two wounded strangers suddenly align, a book project, a picnic, a storm, a rock, and secrets form the elements that bring them together. Their two families must now learn to overcome disappointment and the many obstacles that circumstance places in the path to hope.

For two lost souls in the process of healing broken hearts, nothing is sweeter than the hope of new love.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Jul 17, 2013
• ISBN: 9781475985467

J

J, an unseasoned writer of novels, used his personal and professional experience to broaden his understanding of how people interact with each other. The result was a work of fiction that had to be written and shared.

Book preview

THE GUPPY

AND THE SHARK

Written by J

iUniverse LLC

Bloomington

THE GUPPY AND THE SHARK

Copyright © 2013 by J

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.

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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.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock

ISBN: 978-1-4759-8545-0 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4759-8547-4 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4759-8546-7 (ebk)

iUniverse rev. date: 07/12/2013

Contents

One

Two

Three

Four

Five

Six

Seven

Eight

Nine

Ten

Eleven

Twelve

Thirteen

Fourteen

Fifteen

Sixteen

Seventeen

Eighteen

Nineteen

Epilogue

ONE

It was comforting to sense the large, warm bulk sleeping next to me, my David. Awaking suddenly from a fitful sleep, I called his name softly, expecting an answer. Sitting up with a bolt of energy, I screamed, David! There was only an eerie silence in the darkness.

Then I realized David was not in bed with me, and I just fell back and buried my head in the pillow, knowing he was not here and would never be with me again. He died unexpectedly ten months ago, after a short illness, and with him our secret died as well. Most of the family thought my recurring dream was related to missing David. Since his death, this dream had haunted me, but only David knew why I had bad dreams, and he was always there to comfort me.

Suddenly, the door squeaked open, and my daughter, Julie, called, Mother, are you all right?

When the light next to the bed flashed on, I pulled the pillow over my head. Julie sat down on the edge of the bed and, with her soothing hands, rubbed my back and shoulders.

Julie said softly, Everything is okay. You need to get some sleep. It’s almost morning. Julie continued to rub my back as I spiraled down into an endless sea of emotional turmoil.

The light streaming in the window woke me from my deep sleep. As I became conscious, it was clear I’d had a bad night. My bones ached and my muscles were stiff, and my eyes were half-shut as I tried to look toward the window. Morning had dawned. It was time to rise.

I slowly rolled out of bed, sat up, and stretched before putting on my robe and slippers. The bathroom mirror reflected the wreckage of a sleepless night. The cold water on the face towel felt refreshing, but my hair looked like a rat’s nest. I could hardly get the comb through it. I thought about putting on lipstick, but I wasn’t up to the task. My only thought was the fear of being exposed and what I was doing to keep the secret buried within me.

Descending the stairs to the first floor, I put on my happy face as I entered the kitchen, where Julie, my oldest daughter who lived with me, was sitting with Brad, her fourteen-year-old son, and Janie, her twelve-year-old daughter.

Cat got your tongue?

Julie acknowledged my greeting. The two kids were trying to finish off their breakfast in time to catch the school bus. Both got up, said bye, and flew out the door.

What’s wrong with them this morning?

Julie hesitated and then told me, They woke up when you shouted Dad’s name last night. None of us slept well after that. I didn’t either.

I shouldn’t be having these dreams, and I should be getting over David’s death. I busied myself making toast. Even Julie had no idea I harbored a deep secret, and I wasn’t about to bring it up. Toast in hand, I collapsed in a chair with a cup of coffee.

Julie broke the silence. You need to take sleeping pills or something, so you can get a good night’s sleep. Better still, call Dr. Mills to see if he can do something to eliminate the dreams.

I don’t need any shrink to tell me why I can’t sleep, and I don’t need a bunch of chemicals to deaden my senses and make me look like I’ve been on a bender. I’m fine, just a little tired. I’m sure the dreams will pass in good time.

Brad and Janie are concerned about you and lie awake at night, wondering whether you will have another bad dream. I have to go to work now and make some money. Why don’t you take a nap?

I’ll be okay. Run along. I’ll be here when you bring the kids home today.

I sat in the kitchen, looking out across the spread at the intense blue sky, and let my mind slowly drift. I wondered if anything would be different today from the last few months.

I knew I’d been wallowing in a pool of self-pity since David died, and I was having a difficult time mustering up enough energy to accomplish something other than the same old routine of puttering around the house and trying to keep us solvent.

I walked out to the porch and sat down. As I gazed at the mountains, they suddenly appeared different. The silhouette of the mountain range against the blue sky was breathtaking. Even the flowering buds in the small flower garden by the porch were beginning to open up and take in the scenery. I thought this could be an encouraging sign, an awakening from my lethargy.

I adored the kids, and Julie was the light of my heart. She had such strength of character since returning home from a bad marriage. She was now my best friend and an excellent mother.

I think she felt obligated to sustain me since David’s death. She was always there to help when I needed her.

I decided it was time for her to start looking for a father for those two kids, rather than taking care of me and propping me up. She worked full-time as a teacher and shouldn’t have to come home and deal with my problems.

It is time for me to assess my situation, I said to myself as I gazed across the land. I was blessed with having a healthy body. I was fairly trim and maybe a little wide at the hips, but not too much. Surely, any man would think I looked relatively slim for an old English gal who adopted the habit of wearing cowgirl boots and jeans most of the time.

I wanted people to respect my family and me, but I didn’t want them to think I was on the hunt for a man in my life. I wouldn’t be opposed to a new mate. I just didn’t see anyone replacing David. I wondered if he’d approve of my marrying someone else. My thoughts turned back to David. I missed his strength and his shoulder to lean on. I could still feel his arms wrapped around me.

This mental reflection reinforced my belief in making a positive change in my life, which had been adrift while I lived here on the ranch. I lacked purpose other than preserving our family. After dinner, I wanted to discuss my feelings with Julie.

When I lost David, I pulled the shade down on my life and became a social hermit, all because of my fear of discovery.

I relied on Julie to help sort out the problems. She repeatedly encouraged me to get out of the house and reestablish contact with my friends and to make an effort to meet new people.

When David was at my side, he lifted me up and made me feel special, like I was his queen.

I fell back to the same question. What should I do differently today to make an improvement in my life? Maybe a shower would clear my head.

The water felt good, pelting down on my old skin, and I let my mind wander to when I would shower and dress up for David when he came back from a trip. He was so pleased with me and always complimented me on my looks.

I dried off and then rubbed in sweet-smelling oils to make my skin smooth and shiny. I combed my hair and curled the ends.

As I viewed myself in the mirror, I was beginning to take shape, which buoyed my spirits. Wait until Julie sees me. She’ll think I am up to something.

I was sitting on the porch when Julie drove up with the kids. Janie got out of the car and ran up to the porch, waving a piece of paper, and said, Nana. I got an A on my report.

Janie, I’m so proud of you. I always expect a high grade from the efforts you put into your school projects.

Janie looked me over and said, Where are you going?

No place, in particular.

Nana, you’re all dressed up, as if you were headed for church.

I smiled at Janie and said, I thought I would get dressed for dinner for a change.

You sure look good, she said, and then she went to her room.

Julie appeared with a few groceries and took one look at me and said, I didn’t know you were going out tonight. Where’re you headed? As she put the groceries on the porch table, she looked at me with a strange look and said, I know. You have a date tonight.

You know I’m not dating anyone. I just felt like dressing up.

Julie was silent for about a minute and then said, I don’t think you should waste this special moment. Let’s go to town and do some shopping. I want to show off my mother to the rest of the city folks who aren’t sure if you’re still alive. They’ll wonder what’s happened to you. Should be fun to see their reactions.

Thanks for the compliment, but I didn’t dress up to parade around town. I have nothing to show them.

We need to talk about you and how you’ve isolated yourself on this ranch.

I shocked Julie by saying, Okay, after dinner we’ll have a chat.

I could see Julie mulling over what I said, and my response of not arguing with her caught her off guard. She must have thought I’d gone off my trolley.

After dinner was over and the two kids were sent off to their rooms, Julie and I sat down in the living room for our chat.

Julie opened the conversation by saying, There’s something different about you today. I was hoping you’d explain the sudden change.

Am I so obvious by simply dressing up? I must be out of touch with the world.

I can see you changed your appearance from a frumpy old grandmother to a fresh-looking woman. I like what I see. After several unsuccessful attempts by me to get you to doll up and meet people, you now project an image of someone who’s changed. What happened?

Julie, you shouldn’t be surprised. I decided to fix myself up to look more presentable. You’ve been after me to change. So what do you think? Am I presentable to the outside world?

If you walk down Main Street, you’ll turn more than a few heads. You might get a few whistles from some of the mature gentlemen.

I’m not looking for a man. I’m dissatisfied with being holed up on this ranch with nobody to talk to except the kids and you. I’ve decided to put myself back into circulation with my friends.

Looking at Julie, I got the impression she wasn’t buying my explanation. Since your father died, I’ve put myself in a closet and closed the door to my friends. I’m not happy being this way, and it certainly isn’t the person I want to be.

I detect a breath of fresh mountain air, and I’m pleased you want to renew your friendships. You have no idea how many people have asked me if you were okay. I made excuses about you still grieving over losing Dad, but those excuses are wearing thin. Do you have any plans, in particular?

Nothing unusual. I want to go back to the hair salon on a regular basis. I should be able to catch up on all the latest gossip and provide the regulars something new to spread around town. I can hear the tongues wagging already, saying, ‘Barbara is on the prowl for a man.’

Julie seemed pleased with my comments and said, It should be interesting to see how they explain the new Barbara. You’ll have to tell me their reaction.

Our discussion ended, and I went upstairs. Tomorrow, everyone would see a new Barbara.

TWO

Mike Watson had plenty of time to reflect on his life without his wife, June. It had taken him several days to make the trip across the prairie from Illinois to Montana.

When June was alive, everything was normal and in its proper place. Life had been good since he retired.

Life changed with a jolt when the doctor announced that June had pancreatic cancer and had less than a year to live. June accepted her fate. Mike became her devoted caregiver for the remainder of her life.

After she died, he lacked enthusiasm to start a new life, and he let his physical looks go downhill. He was bordering on being a recluse. His three kids had been encouraging him to get out of the house, meet new people, and start a new life. He could tell they were concerned that he was wasting his life without any purpose or direction.

His fishing buddy, Bob, and his wife, Ellen, had been after him to do something positive with his life. He tried volunteering at church and the local library but wasn’t able to maintain enough interest to make it satisfying. One of the changes he made was to grow a bushy beard, mainly because he was too lazy to shave. He looked like a bum. His body was healthy, but his mental attitude had deteriorated to the point he was getting concerned.

One day while tinkering with his van, an idea popped into his head that started the juices flowing. He knew then that he wanted to write a book. It had always been in the back of his mind but never surfaced into any action. He decided then and there to make an attempt at writing a book, and it would be about the West. His spirits perked up, and he had trouble sleeping that night.

The next day he called Bob and Ellen and floated the idea by them. He told them that he planned to spend time in Montana, doing research for the book, and maybe start the book while he was there. He figured he could find a place to stay, enjoy some home-cooked meals, and make a determined effort to meet local people, who could tell him about their life experiences growing up in Montana.

Bob thought it was a good idea. Ellen expressed her opinion that the kids wouldn’t go for the idea. After much discussion, Ellen came around to support the idea. Mike always wanted to see Montana, and this was his chance to get out of his rut and do something constructive.

He called his oldest son, Bill, and told him what he was planning to do and that he was leaving that day. Bill was caught off guard and hardly knew what to say, so Mike told Bill he would keep in touch with the family and not to worry about him. He explained that his project would take a month or two to complete. Before Bill could object, Mike said good-bye and then completed packing up the van to leave immediately. His spirits were filled with excitement, and he knew that it was the right thing to do, whether or not the book was a success.

Mike’s new adventure began when he arrived in Townsend, Montana, the town about which he had picked to write. He needed to find lodging so he could settle in and get to know the town. He stopped long enough to fill the gas tank at a convenience store and to talk with the attendant.

He asked, What does one do for lodging in this town?

The first words out of her mouth were What are you willing to spend, stranger?

How did you notice I was a stranger, Meg? He noticed her name tag.

You talk a little different than people from these parts, and I didn’t recognize you.

Do you know where I can find a good bargain for lodging? I’m looking for a place to hang my hat for at least one week.

I’ve got just the place for you. My cousin, Ruth, runs a boardinghouse in town. The rooms are as comfortable and private as any motel around here. She fixes breakfast for free and dinner, if you want to pay for it. You’ll find her prices the best around here. Right now, she has a couple of highway construction workers and some newcomers from California staying at her place. Let me call her for you.

I sure would appreciate it.

Meg said, By the way, you didn’t tell me your name.

You can tell your cousin my name is Michael.

Meg called Ruth and had Mike lined up in less than a minute. She drew some directions for him on how to find Ruth’s place. He thanked Meg for the help and said he would pass the word around about how friendly she was. Meg flashed a big smile and said, Are you a salesman?

No, I’m just an old duffer who wants to learn more about this town. He could see her suspicious look and the wheels of her mind turning. Mike knew she would find a way to check him out. Mike didn’t count on being so obvious this soon. Maybe the beard signaled he was trying to sneak into town incognito. As he opened the door to leave, Meg was already talking on the phone.

Mike pulled up at the Townsend Boardinghouse. Inside there was a woman who did look a little like Meg, and he said, I’ll bet you’re Ruth.

You’re right. Did Meg say anything else about me?

She was very complimentary about your facilities and said you served a good meal.

Ruth smiled. My rates are fifty dollars per night and three hundred dollars per week. Is that okay?

Sounds fine to me. Put me down for a week, and I’ll let you know if I plan to stay longer.

She went through her routine to sign Mike in, took his credit card and license, and slapped a key on the counter. He noticed she took an extra amount of time studying the driver’s license, and then she asked, From Illinois? Any relatives around here I might know?

None that I know.

At least you aren’t one of those people from California. They seem to have found our little town and are moving in.

Meg informed him she served breakfast at seven. Mike arrived at his room and decided it would do for the next week. It was nothing fancy, but the bed looked clean, comfortable, and inviting. But there was no e-mail capability. The local library probably had Wi-Fi service. He doubted there was a coffeehouse in the town. Looking out the window, he saw a police car parked behind his van. Word got around fast in this town.

After a breakfast, Mike decided it was time to look a little more presentable, in case the police decided to stop him. No police cars were in sight, so he assumed he had passed the stranger test. Ruth steered Mike to Johnny’s barbershop a couple of blocks away.

The bell over the door rang as Mike entered, and the barber in one of the chairs said, Welcome, stranger. I’m Johnny. What can I do for you today? Seeing three other men in chairs, Mike sat down, assuming he had to wait his turn.

No, come sit in the chair. You’re next. These are my friends who stop in each day to spin a few tales.

As Mike sat down in the barber chair, he asked for a trim on the sides and the back of his neck.

Pardon me for saying it, but it looks like you could stand a shave. We don’t have many new people around here who have big beards like yours.

Just a trim. I’ve gotten used to the extra fuzz.

Johnny continued, Are you from California?

No, I’m from the Midwest, near the Great Lakes. Have you ever been there?

Nope. Haven’t been more than fifty miles from town. What would you be doing in this town, away from the big city?

My real purpose is to learn about the West, especially about mining and ranching. I decided to check out this area, because it was an important center for ranching and was near mining areas. It seemed like a town representative of the West I had read about.

Johnny looked over to the man in the far chair and said, Toby could probably help you. He worked in two of the mines, even though they weren’t very productive.

Toby came alive, saying, Let me know what you want to know, and I’ll tell you about the old history of mining in this area. My dad worked in the mines for twenty years until he came down with lung problems, which finally got the best of him.

Mike responded to Toby, I’m grateful you would take the time to educate me on this area. Will you be around tomorrow morning around nine o’clock?

Okay by me. Come by, and you can ask all the questions you want. The others here can add information to spice it up a bit.

Mike smiled at the three, and they smiled back with their Cheshire-cat looks. He wondered whether he would be able to sort out the tall tales from the facts.

Johnny interrupted and said, It definitely will be harder to find someone who would be willing to tell you about ranching. Ranchers don’t come to my shop. On second thought, there is one person who might be able to shed some light on local ranching.

He looked out the window and then over to the other three and asked, Doesn’t Julie Edwards bring her kids over to the park after school once in a while? All three nodded affirmatively. Her mother, Barbara Wilson, owns the Double-T-Bar ranch about ten miles out of town. If Julie will talk to you, she could be a great source of information. She grew up on the ranch, was married and moved away for a while, and then returned with her two kids.

Is she at the park often?

Johnny thought for a moment and then replied, At least once a week during spring and fall.

Thanks for the heads-up.

Mike decided to change the subject to learn more about fishing in the area. He asked, Where can a new person find a local stream to catch trout?

All four looked at each other, and Mike decided they either were not fishermen or they didn’t want to tell him about their secret fishing holes.

The middle man of the trio said, I heard the other day Willow Creek was a good trout stream. It crosses the highway about eight miles south and east of town. Isn’t fished very much, and I’m not sure about what size fish they catch. You might give it a try.

Sounds like a good idea. Is there a local sport shop where I can pick up some bait?

Try the owner of the antique shop down the street. He collects old mining and ranching equipment and has some fishing gear in his store. He also sells bait. Don’t let the outside appearance stop you. He does a fair amount of business selling to dudes who drive through this area. You might be interested in his big selection of gold ore samples, which were mined from this area.

I bet he has some tales to tell, as well. You have been very helpful, and I’m looking forward to tomorrow.

Mike felt uncomfortable about tomorrow. Everyone was too cooperative.

While paying for the haircut, he asked Johnny where there was a good car dealership for checking out his van. He told them that his check engine light came on as he entered Montana and he needed to find out if he had a problem. Johnny told him about the dealership down the street.

Mike left the barbershop and went directly to the dealership.

The service manager checked out his engine systems and said he had a problem and that he needed to get it fixed before the engine was damaged. He needed the car at least three days so he could fully diagnose the problem and order parts if necessary.

Mike asked the manager if he could rent a car while his van was in the shop. The manager said he had a loaner and would rent it to him. Mike accepted the offer, and the manager brought out a large black SUV. Mike transferred his fishing gear to the SUV, drove off, and headed for the antiques place for a fishing license, map, and some bait.

Mike got his fishing license, had a bite to eat at the local diner, and headed back to the boardinghouse. He had been thinking about trout fishing since leaving Illinois and decided to try his luck that afternoon.

Mike changed into well-worn and tattered fishing clothes, a floppy hat, boots, and sunglasses and headed off to find Willow Creek.

The directions they gave him were excellent, and he parked the SUV near the bridge over the creek. He noticed the Double-T-Bar sign, Private Property, but decided the guys at the shop knew better than to send him to a posted site.

He didn’t see any No Trespassing signs, so he assembled the tackle and headed downstream. Near a big patch of willow trees, he found a hole that looked deep enough to hold some trout. Sure enough, as soon as he threw the line into the water, a twelve-inch trout took the bait, and he set the hook.

The little trout was frisky, nice, and stocky, and had to be well fed. Into the creel it went. In an hour Mike had landed five more trout of equal size and put them in the creel. He was having a high old time. He even thought about his fishing buddy, Bob, but just once.

Then he spotted this gun-toting skinny old broad on a four-by-four headed directly at him. Mike wondered what she wanted.

THREE

I was daydreaming while sitting on the porch and mused, This old grandmother was glad to see Julie coming up the long driveway with the kids. I always looked forward to their arrival, so I could ask them about what happened at school. Janie was first out of the car and ran up to me. One big smooch and she excitedly held up a paper and said, Nana. I got an A on my English test.

I’m pleased you earned an A, because you studied hard. I’m sure your mother is proud of you too.

Janie grinned from ear to ear and then turned and raced into the house. She sure is a joy to this old grandmother. Brad seemed to be preoccupied with helping Julie gather up the groceries. Here he came.

Brad, how was your day?

Okay.

Just okay? You must have done something interesting today.

Brad wasn’t in a talkative mood. Just the usual. And then he proceeded to take the groceries into the house.

Julie was next and said, How was your day?

Not much happened today. I spent some time working on the books, so I could take them to the accountant. By the way, Brad seemed to be in a dull mood. He didn’t have much to say.

Julie sat down next to me and explained, Brad wanted to be on the school’s first baseball team, but the coach played him on the second team. The coach told him he needed to work on his batting. I’m not exactly sure what he meant. Maybe he needs additional coaching.

Have anyone in mind?

You know I don’t. We were at the ballpark for a while, and I could tell something was bothering him. I didn’t realize how important it was to be on the first team. I thought about his silent mood all the way home and have concluded he needs a good coach. The team coach hasn’t been much help.

Well, Julie, it’s time to think about a man who Brad could look up to and learn a few man things from.

Let’s not go there. You know I’m not into the dating scene. Since I returned to the ranch, I’ve dated Harold a few times for convenience, but there isn’t any spark in our relationship. Oh, he’s a nice guy, but not my type.

Who is your type?

Haven’t run into one since I left Joe, and you know what a disaster he was. I don’t want another repeat experience.

I wonder if you are looking hard enough.

It’s not quantity. I want quality, and it’s in short supply in this part of the country. Oh, I forgot to mention, I saw a big black SUV parked along the road, down by Willow Creek. Not sure if there is someone fishing or just wandering around the area.

Did you recognize the car?

No, I didn’t. I couldn’t see the license plate either. It probably belonged to one of the highway construction men or one of the new people coming from California.

I can’t imagine why fishing would interest a new person. It seems odd to me. I’m going to check out this trespasser to see if he’s on my property.

I wish you wouldn’t. Let me go along with you.

It won’t be necessary. I’ll take David’s .38-caliber pistol with me. You finish supper preparation, and I’ll take the four-by-four down to the creek. If someone is fishing on my property, I’ll find him, I said with certainty.

I went upstairs and grabbed the gun and holster, strapped it on, and checked to see if it was loaded. Then I went downstairs.

Julie looked at the gun and said, What will you do if you find him? Are you going to shoot him?

I expect to tell him that he is trespassing and to get off my property. I don’t see any need to shoot anyone, unless I’m forced to protect myself. David taught me how to use it.

What if he is not so inclined to move off the property?

I have my cell phone, and if necessary, I can call Barney and give our deadbeat county cop something to do.

Julie frowned, and I could tell she didn’t approve of me going way down to the creek with a loaded pistol. I thought, It’s a good bet he’s the same guy I chased away six months ago.

I took off for the creek in the four-by-four and decided the best place to start looking was the bend in the creek where I found the trespasser the last time. It was only about three hundred yards away from the highway and an easy walk for a poacher. A bunch of willow trees by the creek kept anyone from seeing who was there.

Nearing the willow trees, I noticed some movement in the middle of the thicket. I drove to the creek and spotted this dumpy-looking old man across the stream. He was wearing a beat-up hat, sunglasses, a sportsman’s jacket, Levi’s, and rubber boots. What made him stand out was his beard. I couldn’t tell if I knew him or not. He was fishing and seemed oblivious to me being there. When I was about thirty yards from him, I hollered, What are you doing on my property?

He looked up, peering out from under the brim of his hat and over the top of his sunglasses. He stopped fishing for the moment and replied, Just trying my luck. Is there a problem, lady?

You’re trespassing on my property, and I want you to leave immediately.

Well, he said slowly, seeing that you are a gun-toting woman, I guess I’d better move on, if it’s what you want.

Yes, it’s exactly what I want.

He replied, I didn’t expect this type of reception. I was told no one would mind if I fished this creek and that the folks around here were quite neighborly.

Whoever told you that knew better. Anyway, we’ve talked enough. Move on out to the highway. I don’t expect to see you on this property again. When you get there, notice the property sign by the bridge.

The stranger started walking toward the highway and then turned around and looked like he was studying me. It didn’t set well. I followed him at a distance until I was sure he was going all the way to the highway.

When I got home, Julie was in the kitchen, tending the meat, which was cooking in the stew pot. She looked at me and said, Glad to see you back so soon. I was worried about you. Did you find him?

Yes.

"After you left, I asked myself, What if he had a gun? Who was he? Did you have to threaten him?"

It wasn’t anything. I asked him to leave, and he did. No problem at all. He didn’t seem to mind; however, he did give me a funny look when he left. I didn’t recognize him as anybody from this territory. I had a hard time catching what he said. His voice was soft with a muffled sound.

Julie asked, What do you mean?

I think he had an accent, but I couldn’t figure out who I knew who spoke like him. It wasn’t important. He left, and I don’t expect him to return. He’s just another poacher.

Julie wouldn’t let it drop. I hope he wasn’t someone important. He might think we are less than neighborly.

Janie, who was sitting at the kitchen table with Brad and taking in the whole conversation, asked, Nana, what’s a poacher?

A poacher is someone who comes on your property to take something.

What did he take?

I could see Julie holding back a big laugh. I replied to Janie, I didn’t see him take anything, but he was on my property, poaching something.

Janie screwed up her face and then looked away. Julie just smiled and said, Well done, Nana.

When Mike got back to town, he went to the boardinghouse, cleaned the trout in the outdoor sink, and stowed them away in Ruth’s refrigerator. He thought, It was a good day even if I was chased away by a gun-totin’, wild-eyed, skinny old broad. He wondered who she was, which reminded him to have a little heart-to-heart talk with the barbershop trio. He could see them laughing at him for being so gullible.

Mike decided to go to the barbershop, as planned, and talk to Toby and see what he had to say. Then he would head on up the pike to Helena to do some shopping and look for another place to hang his hat. The beard was a problem, because the gun-toting female would recognize him. He decided to avoid her. He didn’t care for the treatment he got and thought she was rather mean-spirited.

The next morning Mike headed downtown to the barbershop. He got there in time to see two of the trio leave the shop. They must have seen him coming.

Johnny greeted Mike, and Toby nodded as he walked into the shop.

Mike said, What happened to your other two sidekicks?

Johnny grinned and said, They were on their way home.

I was hoping I could have a chat with all four of you. It seems the location you gave me to fish for trout was posted land, and strangers weren’t welcome. You wouldn’t have an idea why, would you?

Johnny squirmed in his barber chair, and Toby looked away. Then Johnny looked up. We heard some stories about poachers being run off the property in the past, but you didn’t seem like the type.

What do you mean?

Johnny said, There were a couple of construction guys who thought it was fun to test the mettle of the ranch owner by waiting until they saw the owner coming toward them before they hightailed it back to the highway. I think it was more of a game to them.

I don’t think it was a game when an armed female threatens me and orders me off her property.

Julie’s mother is a little rough around the edges at times, but she means well. I wouldn’t let it bother you.

Not very neighborly, Mike countered. Toby, I came here to talk with you about the mining around here. Let’s go outside and sit on the park bench across the street.

Toby left the shop with Mike. Mike spent the rest of the morning pumping Toby for information. Mike decided it would require spending more time researching information at the library.

Actually, Toby did a fair job relating his experiences, even if he embellished them. The two of them had lunch at the diner, and Mike got to know Toby much better. He told Mike about the Double-T-Bar ranch, which was helpful. He also told Mike about Barbara and David Wilson and what a loss it was for her when David died.

After his meeting with Toby, Mike decided he needed to change his appearance if he was going to get any information out of the Wilson family about ranching. He was ready to make a change in appearance and become another new person in town.

There was one more thing that he needed to do before looking for new accommodations and changing to a clean-shaven person. He needed to focus some unwanted attention on the mistress of the Double-T-Bar ranch for her unfriendly treatment.

He drove to the diner recommended by Ruth and went in.

Mike remembered that Toby had said that the Wilson family ate at Antonio’s restaurant every Friday. He asked the waitress about Antonio’s, and she told him Antonio’s was the best but a little pricey. She explained that it was on the outskirts of town, going west on Main Street. Mike thanked her, paid his bill, and left.

After lunch, Mike was still annoyed with the thought of being tossed off the property and disrupting his fishing adventure. It was time to see how that skinny old broad would handle his plan to twist her tail. The fresh trout were the answer.

The next morning, Mike decided to make a deal with the owner of Antonio’s. Mike went to the restaurant and met with Antonio. He outlined what he wanted to do for the Wilson family. Antonio was receptive to accepting the fish and delivering the card that Mike gave him. Antonio smelled the fish, looked them over carefully, and remarked they were very fresh. Mike gave him money in cash and then explained the card should be presented to Mrs. Wilson instead of the bill at the end of the meal.

The hook was baited. Now let’s see how Mrs. Wilson handles the thought of having a new friend.

FOUR

On Friday night, Julie arrived home, as usual, with the kids. I could see they were raring to go somewhere. Julie, don’t forget we’re having dinner at Antonio’s at six. Do you think you can get some clean clothes on Brad and Janie? They both look like they’ve been rolling around in the dirt.

I’ll have them cleaned up and into fresh clean clothes. I wouldn’t want people to think I was raising a couple backwoods kids.

I was ready, and something told me this was going to be a good evening with the family. I felt a few good days of enjoying the kids and just doing nothing related to the ranching business was the best medicine for me.

The kids came bounding down the porch stairs and climbed into the backseat. What happened to your mother?

Brad piped up and said, She’s putting on her war paint.

She’s probably trying to look good for the evening. Maybe she’ll meet someone special.

Brad distorted his face and said, Who’s she going to meet?

You never know, but just in case, you want to look good.

Janie didn’t quite understand. She replied, You don’t have anything special on your face. Don’t you expect to meet someone special?

I think I’m getting a little too old, don’t you think? I could tell by looking at Janie that she was still puzzled.

Finally, with a sigh, Janie said in a soft voice, Would you go out on a date if someone asked you?

Before I could answer, Julie opened the door, climbed into the front seat, and announced that she was ready to go.

Your daughter is beginning to ask a lot of questions. She wanted to know if I would go out on a date if someone asked me.

And?

Are you kidding? There isn’t any way I can answer her question. Who would date an old grandmother like me? No, I’m too old!

I started the engine and noticed Julie was contemplating something. Then she looked away. Now I wondered what she was thinking about.

We got to Antonio’s and were seated at our favorite table near the window. I was the first to notice the table was covered with a fancy white tablecloth, rather than the regular light-blue one. The waitress walked away, which was a little unusual, because she always asked for our beverage order first. Then Antonio came out of the kitchen and headed directly to our table.

Mrs. Wilson, tonight I have prepared a special dinner just for you and your family. I know you like fish when I have it. I have fresh trout for you, and I have prepared a very special sauce for the trout. How does a trout meal sound to you?

Julie, what do you think?

It sounds like we are in for a treat. I’m not sure about Brad and Janie, but they have to learn to eat good food instead of burgers and fries, which they equate to a treat.

I said, Antonio, you have my vote of confidence, as well.

Good. I also have a complimentary bottle of my private stock of white wine, which I imported from Italy. I know you will like it.

This was too good to be true, I thought, so I said to Antonio, What’s going on?

You have been my loyal customer for all these years, and I decided to do something special for you. The fresh fish were donated by a friend of yours.

Who’s the friend?

I don’t believe I know him, but he knew you and the family.

Thanks, Antonio. This certainly is becoming an unusual night.

Mother, maybe you ought to rethink your idea about dating someone. It seems as though you have a secret admirer who’s treating us to dinner. Have you been sneaking around behind my back? Is there someone I should know about so I can check him out?

Don’t be silly. There isn’t anyone special in my life, other than Brad, Janie, and you. Even your kids noticed you had your war paint on tonight. Maybe you’re expecting to see someone and are holding out on me.

I just felt like getting dressed up for a change and wanted to enjoy the night out.

I think you look pretty tonight, Mother, Janie chimed in. Brad was cringing and obviously feeling embarrassed about the whole conversation.

Julie smiled at Janie and said, Janie, you sure are a joy. You’re the first person to tell me those words in a long, long time.

Brad was dying to get away from this girl talk and showed it by slouching down farther in his chair. Then he excused himself to go to the restroom.

Antonio broke the mood when he showed up with the wine bottle in an ice bucket. He ceremonially uncorked the bottle, gave the cork to me to smell, and asked what I thought.

Antonio, it has a very pleasant aroma. I’m anxious to taste your imported wine.

Antonio poured