Footprints

By Sonya Wilkins

This family saga follows the lives of two sisters, Brook and Kalle Woodbridge, through a troubled childhood as they fight personal tragedies to build new lives for themselves. They build passionate and loving relationships along the way to personal and business success. They are touched by marital abuse, the tragic death of one sister, miscegenation and intolerance.

The characters include:

Brook: The beautiful sister whose life is tragically cut short by an abusive husband.

Kalle: The timid sister who morphs into the strong family matriarch.

Fletcher: The brilliant attorney who would give up everything for family.

Phyllis: The ultimate trophy wife a sophisticated beauty, social leader and trend setter with a secret powerful enough to destroy her marriage, position in the community, and prevent her from giving her husband the family he wants.

Brandon: The handsome player who avoids relationships until a beautiful young woman stumbles into his life like a wounded doe. He nurtures her back to health, and watches her transformation into the self-assured Cinnamon unaware that she is capturing his heart in the process.

Chance: The handsome Lothario with a dark side that brings pain and tragedy into the Woodbridge family, separating sister from sister and Mother from children. Just when the family begins to heal, he returns like a dark cloud, hovering over their lives, waiting to reign terror once again.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Aug 21, 2013
• ISBN: 9781481773645

Sonya Wilkins

Sonya Wilkins is recently retired from the insurance industry. As a quality consultant and training and development specialist, she used her creative writing to develop training vignettes, materials and activities. Later in her career she moved into management, and she continued to use creativity while writing newsletters and motivational memos. Writing has always brought her great pleasure. It was not a big leap for Sonya to move from technical writing to fiction. She found that she could lose entire days in an imaginary world, building and developing characters to create a story. This book is the fruit of those aforementioned days. She created a story about two strong women with courage and drive. The story describes two fictional sisters who are intensely loyal to each other and their children, and how they overcome tragic events in their lives. The story is packed with suspense and surprises as the sisters navigate through life. With focus and determination, and against all odds, they creatively solve problems to achieve success – a success that looks different for each sister.

Book preview

Prologue

BROOK WAS PUTTING THE FOOD ON the table when the storm erupted both inside and outside the house. Thunder cracked the silence as lightening streaked the sky illuminating the night momentarily. The rain poured outside while Chance moved into action inside the house with the frenzy of a tornado, lifting pots, pans, and dishes, whatever was in reach and hurling them around the room. She ducked, but a pan caught the side of her face. Her fingers stung from the pain of breaking the full blow. She ran out of the kitchen into the dining room. He followed, but he was unsteady on his feet from the alcohol on the ride home, and he stumbled forward bracing his arms on the glass covered counter to keep from falling. When he straightened up his arms were bleeding, and he swore as he stumbled out of the kitchen. He grabbed her and threw her against the wall. She slumped to the floor. He threw serving dishes, filled with hot food, slinging them against the wall above her head. A serving ladle smacked her forehead, and hot juice from collard greens splashed against her arms and legs leaving red welts as it burned her skin. She struggled to her feet and ran into the living room. She stood trapped and trembling in the corner as she watched the movements of this mad man. She had never seen this much rage before, and her legs buckled beneath her as she slumped to the floor. At that fateful moment, he didn’t see his wife, the mother of his children; instead he saw the source of his pain the nemesis of his burdensome life, and a chance to end the agony and frustration of his existence.

Sisters

Chapter 1

IT WAS THE EVE OF SUMMER, the evening before the last day of school and the annual high school talent contest. As I stepped outside the front door a warm evening breeze caressed my face sweeping the strands of hair that had escaped Mother’s day-old braids. By the end of the second day strands of hair would escape from their assigned grooves to form their own unruly arrangement. Sometimes my friends would tease me about my hair, but this was the farthest thing from my mind on this warm evening. I was happy to be out of the house and away from Mother’s critical eye, even if I was only running an errand for her. It was the kind of errand I enjoyed. I skipped the short distance to Brook’s best friend Nyla’s house. As I approached the yard, I heard the group singing the latest Supremes hit. They were practicing for the school talent show. I sat down on a tree stump and watched them. I was fascinated by their amateur choreography as they moved in unison and mimicked the lavish gestures of the stars they were imitating. In my eleven-year old eyes they were spectacular; but Brook was my star by far, and I was bursting with pride for my Sister. At sixteen, Brook was already a striking beauty. The beauty that I admired in my youthful innocence would eventually bring darkness into her life. Her five foot-eight frame was an art form of magnificent slopes and curves atop an ample length of exquisite legs. Her large amber eyes were shaded by thick lashes, and her thick mass of auburn hair contrasted perfectly with her almond skin. She was the perfect blend between our Father’s deep coffee skin and Mother’s bright almond tone. She was a pleasant view for the casual male observer and an enticing challenge to an amoral eye. Whatever their motive, men of all ages and colors would steal a long second look upon a chance encounter with Brook.

I jumped when I heard Mother calling my name, and I could see her standing on our back porch. I hopped up from my makeshift seat and waved to signal that I saw her. I hoped she had not been calling for me very long. Mother was a strict disciplinarian, and she did not tolerate what she referred to as foolishness. I would be in trouble for taking so long to bring Brook home. I called out to Brook to get her attention.

She flashed a welcoming smile, and said What are you doing here Fudge? I pointed to Mother and the smile disappeared as she took my hand and we headed for home.

You guys are fantastic, and I’m sure you will win. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you right away that Mother wanted you, but I wanted to listen. I was breathing hard as my chubby legs tried to match Brook’s stride, and my words came out in spurts between gasps for air.

"Don’t worry Fudge, it’s not that serious, and she squeezed my hand to reassure me. She didn’t want me to get too excited because I had a history of hyperventilating.

Mother started in on us as soon as we were within hearing She glared at me and said, Next time I send you on an errand, you better do just that and not play around! Now go get ready for bed, but don’t you dare go to sleep until I comb your hair. She swatted me as I tried to slip past her. A familiar lump formed in my stomach as I listened to her start in on Brook. She said I can’t believe how selfish you are. You knew you had chores to do before you left. Both you and Kalle are irresponsible. I can’t do it all. It takes all three of us to keep this house going, and you should be the role model for your sister.

Brook explained, I didn’t mean to stay away so long, but I just wanted to get in some practice before the talent show.

Mother was unsympathetic, saying "I don’t care about that damn contest. It’s foolishness. I have more important things to think about like keeping a roof over our heads and putting food on the table. I have to be able to depend on you to take care of things around here." Later I sneaked into Brook’s room to watch her style her hair. I could sit for hours watching Brook play with her hair, styling it after her favorite movie stars. Primping in front of a mirror was one of her favorite ways to pass time. One day I heard Aunt Earlene tell Mother that Brook was vain because she was always in the mirror looking at herself. Mother defended Brook explaining that she was just having fun. She told Aunt Earlene that Brook loves styling hair, and she spends just as much time on Kalle’s hair as she does with her own. Mother said Brook does not think she’s special because of her looks, and she sees beauty in everyone. Mother was right. I loved these times despite what Aunt Earlene thought about it. I especially liked being the center of Brook’s attention.

Brook said Scoot over here Fudge, and I’ll braid your hair so you can go to bed.

The next morning Brook rolled over and looked at the alarm clock for about the umpteenth time since going to bed, and it finally gave her permission to start the day. She jumped up and showered before starting her morning chores. Normally she loved this time of day and would linger in the bathroom to daydream and primp. Early morning was her time to be alone with her thoughts while Mother and I slept, but today was special. She had to prepare for the evening’s festivities. She finished the breakfast dishes and was gathering our books and lunches when Nyla called for her from the front porch.

Hey kiddo. You guys ready in there? Let’s get a move on!

Brook replied I think I’ve got everything, my overnight bag, our lunches and books, and I fixed us a snack since we won’t be coming home for dinner tonight.

Great, you think of everything. I don’t know how you get so much done. I can barely get myself ready in the mornings.

I wish Mother thought so.

What’s wrong, did you get in trouble last night?

I didn’t finish putting the dishes away before I left for your house, and on top of that I stayed away long enough for her to notice I was missing. She was upset because she had to send Fudge to get me. You would have thought it was the end of the world.

She won’t stay mad long, you know how your Mother is.

Yes, I know, but she acts like I don’t help at all. Anytime I ask to be with my friends, she acts like I’m betraying the family. It’s not like I don’t want to help. I see her when she gets off work in the mornings looking tired and drained after working all night. Then she has to get up and do the washing and ironing for her laundry customers as well as cook for us. It’s because I see how hard she has it that I wish for so much more for all of us, not just me.

At least you get to spend the entire weekend with us, and we are going to have a blast. No babysitting!

You’re right, but sometimes I wonder if Mother was ever young. I think she might have been born with that pinched look on her face. Brook teased. I hope it’s not hereditary. They were both laughing by the time we reached my school. Brook hugged me, and promised to pick me up from the Smith’s early so that we could go to church together. I felt guilty because I was the main reason Brook had so little freedom.

At the end of the school day, Brook’s hormones were fully charged and she was alive with an energy that had her thoughts racing in a million directions at once. She met Nyla and the rest of the group in the auditorium and they ate their dinner from paper bags while they waited their turn to practice their act.

Look Nyla, there’s Brandon Morgan. I heard he was home from college.

God, he’s fine, and I have a crush on him.

You and me both! In fact who doesn’t? Brook took a bite out of her apple and studied Brandon while he worked. He was medium height with a muscular build. His skin was the color of tree bark soaked from a hard summer’s rain. He was ruggedly handsome with piercing eyes that could embrace you and warm your heart as you swam in their depths. Sometimes Brook thought his face was a little foreboding, but when he smiled his warmth was all she saw. About that time he glanced up and recognized her with a quick grin. She was feeling reckless and she smiled and winked at him.

Brook complained, I’m sure he thinks we’re too young for him to spend any time with us. I should go over there. But about this time he and the other guys left the auditorium. Maybe he’ll come back later, and see us in our outfits. We look hot in them, and he might pay us some attention for a change. Brook and Nyla had known Brandon for years. He had lived in a big house at the top of the hill from them until he was in high school and then his family built a huge home on the north side of town. There was a line of demarcation at the bottom of the hill which marked the beginning of the less affluent area where Brook lived. Although they were neighbors, there were miles of social distance separating their families. Integrated neighborhoods were not common in the sixties, and the unwritten social laws limiting the areas where Blacks could live were just beginning to dissolve. Because neighborhoods had a tendency to be defined by the ethnic group that occupied them, their neighborhood was made up of all Black families. The only trappings to separate the social classes were the curb appeal of the homes. The beauty of the landscaping, the trim and freshness of the paint on the houses, and the age and condition of the vehicles on the curb helped to distinguish between the advantaged and the less fortunate families. Since children have to be taught to discriminate, they all played together until they entered junior high school. Then the social caste system raised its ugly head in the form of expensive clothes, dance and music lessons, private tutors, family vacations, more than one car, and other material signs which said there is a difference and some of us are more privileged. Brandon had all those trappings. His house was like a fortress protected by high rows of neatly trimmed shrubbery and trees framing his family’s property. It was the largest and most ornate house in the neighborhood. They had a two-car attached garage, full basement, and closed in patio off the back of the house. Beautiful flowers lined the walk leading to the house. Did you ever play at Brandon’s house when you were young? Nyla asked. No, I always felt uneasy whenever I entered that heavy wrought iron gate. I always felt like I was violating a private sanctuary, and someone would be along soon to shoo me away. Brook replied.

I know, I felt the same way.

I lost track of him when he started going to that private Lutheran school. By the time he went through commencement and enrolled in public school in the ninth grade, he was part of that snobby group of westsiders.

I know, Nyla sighed in agreement, and now he’s gone and we’ve blown our chance to make up for lost time.

Later that afternoon, Brook and the gang walked around the grounds checking out the rides for the carnival, trying to take their minds off the talent show. Brook left the group to call and check on Kalle.

Mrs. Smith may I speak to Kalle.

Sure, Brook, she’s right here.

Hey Fudge; you actually made it without getting lost. Brook teased.

"When are you coming to get me? I whined.

Don’t sound so sad Fudge. I didn’t want to leave you but Mother had to work.

I know Brook. I don’t mind being here. We are going to bake chocolate chip cookies tonight, and I will save you some.

Brook was still troubled as she went back to find the gang. She didn’t like the sound of Fudge’s voice. She didn’t enjoy leaving her at the Smiths for the whole weekend, but she did not have much of a choice since Mother had to work. Brook made a mental note that she owed Fudge a treat of some kind to make up for the weekend. When she returned to the gang, they were surrounded by a group of guys. As she got closer, she noticed that there was one guy in the group that she didn’t recognize. Even though his back was to her, his frame was not familiar. He had captured everyone’s attention with a story he was telling, and when he spun around to add momentum to his story, he nearly took Brook’s breath way.

Nyla whispered, Get a load of Chance Wilson. Isn’t he gorgeous?

You said it! Brook agreed.

I know. Nyla said. Look at that complexion; it’s like the color of champagne, and he has those beautiful gray eyes."

Brook said, I think I’m in love.

Nyla continued, Look at him; he’s got everybody’s attention.

Before Brook could get out a response, she realized that Chance was watching them. He extended his arm and holding Brook’s hand very gently, he said, My name’s Chance darling, and I’d sure like to get to know you better.

I’m Brook.

You certainly are the prettiest Brook I’ve ever laid eyes on! Please tell me you don’t have a boyfriend. He implored, looking her up and down in approval.

Brook smiled, and barely regaining her poise, she managed to get out, Not at the moment. She was immediately infatuated and excited that he had singled her out. He had an air of experience about him, and he was entertaining the group with stories about what it was like to play with a jazz combo. He played the drums with a local group on the weekends.

That night, when it was time for the girls to perform, Brook forgot all about Brandon. She only had eyes for Chance. She didn’t even see Brandon when he slipped in from a side door while they were on stage performing.

Chance and Brook became a couple that night, and they were a striking pair. They were always together, and Brook began to spend less and less time with her friends. Even when she was with them, her thoughts were with Chance. Everyone usually gathered at the Woodbridge house on evenings and weekends because Brook took care of Kalle. When Chance began dropping by, he made everyone so uncomfortable that they would leave early, and eventually they stopped coming around altogether. Brook didn’t notice the change because she was consumed with thoughts of Chance. He was the first thought on her mind when she woke in the morning and her last thought before falling asleep each night.

Nyla commented one day, What’s the deal? You’re not only pushing me away, but the gang hasn’t been over in a long time.

I guess everybody’s been as busy as me, Brook replied, while purposely ignoring the obvious dig against Chance. Brook found herself either defending or ignoring digs against Chance whenever Nyla was around, and Mother seemed to echo Nyla’s opinion.

Chapter 2

IT DIDN’T TAKE CHANCE LONG TO sniff out the problems between Brook and Mother, and he managed to drive an even deeper wedge between them. He also cut into Brook and Kalle’s private times.

One day Mother said, Brook you need to be careful. Chance is your first real boyfriend and you should slow it down. You’re going to experience feelings that can get you into trouble. Kalle was shocked by Brook’s response. You just don’t want me to have a life at all. I wasn’t put on this earth to be your slave. Kalle had never heard Brook talk back to Mother before.

Don’t say I didn’t warn you; and if you get into trouble, you’re on your own. She stormed out of the room slamming the door behind her.

Chance never missed an opportunity to put down Mother. One evening, Kalle overheard him talking to Brook.

Your Mother takes advantage of you Brook. You shouldn’t have to raise your sister. You should be able to spend more time with your friends.

She can’t help it Chance, she has to work, and we can’t afford to pay someone to watch Kalle. I don’t really mind, and the gang is used to coming over so I can watch her.

That’s not the point Brook. You’re young, but you have to act like somebody’s mother all the time. We shouldn’t have to have her underfoot every day.

Brook frowned at Chance, I love Kalle and I enjoy having her around.

I know you do, honey, she’s a sweet kid. He backed off a little. I’m just saying you shouldn’t have to have that responsibility all the time.

Thanks to Nyla, Mother knew that Chance came by every night after she went to work. Aunt Earlene told Mother, You better rein that girl in, Maxine, before you have another mouth to feed. God knows that’s all you need.

Brook’s not like that, she’s always been responsible. But, I don’t trust that Chance Wilson. He’s a little too smooth for me. I see evil lurking behind those pretty gray eyes, and one day he’s going to show his true colors.

Maxine, you always defend your children, and whenever they do something wrong, it’s because they were led astray by someone else. But, you better get a grip on this situation before it blows up in your face. Have you even talked to Brook about the facts of life?

Kids aren’t dumb today. She should know where babies come from.

Yes, Maxine, but does she know how to cool off her young man when he’s feeling frisky? Does she even know how to handle her own feelings?

Are you trying to tell me that I don’t know how to raise my own kids?

No, Maxine. I’m just saying you should talk to the girl.

If Brook gets in trouble, it’s not my fault. She’s not stupid, and I’ve talked to her enough. Just drop it Earlene. You don’t have kids, and I’ll raise my kids my way!

Aunt Earlene conceded, Okay, I’m just trying to be helpful.

Brook and Chance began spending countless hours alone, drawing closer together. The night Brook turned seventeen Chance found it easy to convince her to stay out all night. She lied to Mother for the first time, telling her she would be spending the night with Nyla. And, like a spider spinning a web for the fly, Chance made extravagant plans for Brook. He arranged a surprise birthday party at the Lake where he rented a cabin. Just like he planned, it was a magical night for Brook. It was a surprise party and she was truly surprised to see her friends because she thought Chance wanted the opportunity for them to be alone.

Don’t tell me we finally pulled one over on you, said Heather?

"Are you kidding? I can’t believe all this. Chance said this was going to be a romantic picnic for just the two of us. The only company I was expecting was the four-legged kind, not you turkeys,