The Other Side of September: Historical Fiction Based on a True Story

By Don Musselman

After service in Korea, Don Madison, a Corpsman in the Navy, visualized a happy life with his irresistible fianc, Hanna Bentley who was so much in love with him when he left for Korea, but how does he react when he returns after a year and finds she is pregnant? Feeling betrayed and crushed, hes transferred to Mare Island Naval Hospital in California. Upon arrival, he discovers his new Superior Officer is a woman.
Lt. Erin O Quinn is a gorgeous redhead with blue eyes and a body to die for. Erin does all the right things for him to fall in love with her. But she causes friction when she acquires a newfound friend, Douglas Arrington III, whom she met on an airplane while flying home for Christmas.
Don is suspicious of how close the relationship is between Erin and Douglas. He wonders if she is still a virgin or just pretends to be. She doesnt want to let Don go, but he feels she is secretly seeing Roger without his knowledge. Will Don discover whether he is wrong about his mistrust of Erin or will he find he was right in his assumption of her actions? Don finds life was not as confusing in the poor coal mining town where he was raised. But, if all that has happened with Hanna and Erin is not enough, he finds himself being arrested for armed robbery and murder while on leave in San Francisco. Will he be able to prove his innocence? The Other Side of September is filled with excitement and surprises that will make it difficult to put the book down.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Apr 29, 2014
• ISBN: 9781493198276

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Copyright © 2014 by Don Musselman.

Library of Congress Control Number:     2014906663

ISBN:                  Hardcover                        978-1-4931-9828-3

                            Softcover                          978-1-4931-9829-0

                            eBook                               978-1-4931-9827-6

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Rev. date: 04/07/2014

To order additional copies of this book, contact:

Xlibris LLC

1-888-795-4274

www.Xlibris.com

[e-mail]

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CONTENTS

Acknowledgment

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chapter 43

Chapter 44

Chapter 45

Chapter 46

Chapter 47

Chapter 48

Chapter 49

Chapter 50

Chapter 51

Chapter 52

Chapter 53

Chapter 54

Chapter 55

Chapter 56

Chapter 57

Chapter 58

Chapter 59

Chapter 60

Chapter 61

Chapter 62

Chapter 63

Chapter 64

Chapter 65

Chapter 66

Chapter 67

Chapter 68

Chapter 69

Chapter 70

Chapter 71

Chapter 72

Chapter 73

Chapter 74

Chapter 75

Chapter 76

Chapter 77

Chapter 78

Chapter 79

Chapter 80

Chapter 81

Chapter 82

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

F or my lovely wife Marlene who gave me sons, Chip and Brad, and daughter, Ramarla, who is an angel looking down on us.

CHAPTER 1

What the hell am I doing here? This was not only the feeling of Don Madison, but of the entire crew of the destroyer USS Hickox at this point in history. Up until now, the navy had been exciting and different. Join the navy and see the world. The poster in front of the post office in Kentucky looked very enticing that cold January day in 1951.

Who would have thought the training in sunny San Diego or the liberties in San Francisco would, someday, be pleasant memories compared to the almost unbearable situation now.

The rain came steady; the temperature was 28ºC. What a place to be for Condition III Watch. The 40 mm gun mount located aft of the torpedo tubes afforded little or no protection from the driving rain blowing from the starboard side. Don thought he had known misery in his lifetime but really did not until now.

Here, in the Sea of Japan, off the coast of Korea, must be the coldest spot in the world, he thought. The foul weather gear was not adequate against both wetness and cold. The water dripping off his hat and onto his frozen cheeks would turn into ice had he not kept wiping it off with his wet glove.

Some of the men assigned to gun mount 45 were huddled in a corner beside the projectiles, trying to seek comfort from the dark December night which blew down upon them like an angry enemy.

Jack Allen, gunner’s mate third class, the clown of the group, tried to get their minds off the freezing weather by telling one of his raunchy jokes, but even that did not help. The frigid night seemed to prevail. The sea was not as rough as it usually was, which made it a little more bearable. It could have been worse, he thought. It could have been the North Atlantic which was the roughest water Don had ever been in with the exception of the water of the Bermuda Triangle off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, which was always dangerously rough.

They did have a coffee pot to turn to for a change of pace. The first thing Don had to get used to after going aboard ship was the coffee setup. Each gun mount, engine room, radio shack, boatswain’s locker, or storeroom had its own Joe Pot as the Salts called it.

The unique thing about coffee aboard ship was that it was so strong that most of the sailors couldn’t stand it, but they continued to drink it because it was hot and seemed like the sociable thing to do.

When it came Don’s turn to make the coffee, he began by emptying the grounds and rinsing the pot when he heard a voice yell, What the hell are you doing, Sailor? This was Cookie Latham, a first class boatswain’s mate with four hash marks on his sleeve.

We don’t wash out the pot. It’ll spoil the taste of the mud. When are you young swabbies gonna learn?

Now I understand the difference between coffee and navy coffee, he thought to himself.

The rain began to let up and shells could be heard bursting in the distance, but the night was still pitch black. Don could see a faint flash of light in the distance whenever a projectile would burst; he wondered if they would be in the thick of it by morning. He didn’t know where they were, but he had heard by way of scuttlebutt that they were headed for Wonsan Harbor.

As a young boy, he had often wondered what it would be like to fight in a war. Now he would get the chance. He wondered how he would react, and it didn’t seem as romantic as it did when he was a kid.

CHAPTER 2

D on’s thoughts turned from the bitter cold and the anxiety of combat to Hanna. I wonder what she’s doing tonight by that beautiful lake in Maine , he thought. It’s daytime there.

Just the thought of Hanna filled him with a warm feeling from head to toe. Even though she was only twenty, she was every bit a woman.

I’ll never forget the first time I saw her, he dreamed. He was visiting his brother, Arthur, who lived with his wife in a quaint home on a lake in Mount Vernon, which is not far from Readfield, Winthrop, and Augusta, Maine. The house was surrounded by pine trees and white birch trees which overlooked the lake, which was about a mile across to the other side. It was a magnificent setting when the sun was disappearing across the water—to see the rays of the evening sun radiating through the branches where the trees met the shore. Just the picturesque surroundings alone were romantic.

He used to take great delight in gliding through the fresh, clean water in his canoe. This was one place where he could let the world go by as he paddled along the shoreline waving at other neighbors working around their docks or just sitting in the front yard.

It was the first weekend Don visited in Maine. His ship, the destroyer USS Hickox, was anchored off Newport, Rhode Island, and he had a seventy-two-hour liberty.

He had not seen his brother Arthur in quite a few years. Arthur was much older and had left home and joined the marines when Don was still in grammar school. At the time, Arthur was a very successful salesman of industrial equipment and was on the road quite a bit. His wife Amanda was a little hesitant about staying in the house alone when he would be away overnight, but it was fortunate for her that Hanna Bentley, who lived about half of a mile down the lake, was able to stay with her on those nights that Arthur was away.

Don’s last ride left him off at the Augusta exit of the Maine turnpike. It was easy getting rides between Newport and Augusta because it was heavily traveled and wearing his uniform also helped when hitchhiking.

He had a little more difficulty getting a ride to the little village of Mount Vernon. From there, he hitched a ride with a mail car that was making deliveries in that area.

Have you been here before? asked the little man who appeared to be eighty years old but had the vigor of a younger man.

No, sir, said Don to the mailman. This is my first trip this far north.

I’ve lived here all my life, said the old gentleman. It’s a nice place to live, but the winters are sure cold.

I don’t think I’d like that, said Don.

Just then they pulled up in front of a two-story log house which was built by Amanda’s father who passed away a few years ago. He had lived in Hartford and would spend almost every weekend and all summer in Maine. That’s why it seemed like home to Amanda, Don’s sister-in-law.

Don got out and thanked the old fellow for the ride. By that time, Amanda heard the car and came out of the house.

Don, you got here sooner than I expected, said Amanda. She threw her arms around him and gave him a big hug. Come on in, and I’ll fix you a drink. Arthur will be home shortly.

Don put his bag down and washed his hands while Amanda fixed him a drink. Amanda was in her forties and holding her age well. She was a very attractive Jewish woman with black hair and about 5'7" tall.

Don could look out the front door and see the lake about fifty yards away. There was someone swimming near the dock. Who is that? Don asked.

Oh! That’s Hanna. She stays with me when Arthur is away overnight. Her folks have a nice place about a mile down the lake. When I heard your ship was coming to the East Coast I was excited about you coming up and meeting her.

Listen, I haven’t had a blind date yet that turned out worth a darn, said Don.

Oh! You’ll like her. I guarantee it. She has been dating my nephew, Abram. He works as a technical writer in NewYork, and comes up when he can. He is much too old for her, but I think he is serious about her. I don’t know how she feels about him, said Amanda.

Why don’t you go down and introduce yourself while I continue with dinner. She knows you’re to spend the weekend with us.

As Don walked down toward the lake, he could see that she was a fairly good swimmer. He walked out on the dock and said, Hi.

Oh! You startled me. You must be Don, she said, as she was splashing around while treading water.

Yes, and you’re Hanna, right?

Yes, she said, as she swam toward the dock.

The platform of the dock was about a foot down to the water, and it was only about knee-deep under it. When she reached shallow water, Hanna stopped swimming and touched bottom with her feet and began to walk toward the dock.

The water was about waist-high, and it receded as she walked closer. The first thing Don noticed about her was that she was well-developed for a young girl. Then when he saw her face and body, he said to himself, God, what a lovely creature! As she came closer, he visualized a beautiful nymph ascending from the water.

Here, let me help you, Don said, as he extended his hand to help her step up on the dock.

Don had difficulty keeping his eyes from focusing on her halter as she bent over to step up.

Her swimsuit was a two-piece black creation that looked like it was made to her specifications. She wore it well.

The water dripped off her hand onto his hand.

The water is nice today, not too cold, she said as she took off her swim cap. She bent her head slightly and shook it as her hair fell into place. She was a brunette.

She walked over and picked up her towel and began to dry herself. Then she blotted her face and rubbed the towel over each arm, her midsection, and then her legs.

Don watched as she gently moved the towel from her foot, up her leg, and over her thigh. She switched to the other leg and repeated the same motions.

Will you dry my back? Hanna asked, as she handed him the towel. Certainly, said Don eagerly.

He rubbed the towel across her shoulders, down her back, across the narrow strap of her swimsuit and across the small of her back.

He couldn’t keep from noticing how smooth and firm her skin was and how perfect her body seemed to curve in the right places. The bottom part of her bathing suit was rather low in the back, and Don wondered if he should move the towel any farther to meet the top of it. He decided not to, although, he wanted to.

Thanks. Have a nice trip up? asked Hanna as she turned and took the towel from Don.

Yes, I made good time on the road. Hitchhiking is easy after you get about thirty miles north of New York City where people seem happy to pick up a man in uniform.

Aren’t you sometimes afraid you may get robbed? asked Hanna You hear about bad things happening to hitchhikers.

No, I don’t ever think about it, said Don. I guess I should though.

When Hanna talked, she would look straight into Don’s eyes with a smile on her lips that seemed to accentuate the brightness of her green eyes.

Don found he was looking around or out at the water when he talked to her. He couldn’t seem to return the look. It sort of made him uneasy. His voice would shake a little. She didn’t detect it, but he felt it.

A boat with an outboard motor hurried by about a hundred yards off shore and churned up the smoothness of the water. Soon the waves were sloshing up against the dock and washing up on shore a little ways.

Let’s walk over to the steps, said Hanna.

There were two summer cabins nearby that were made of wood halfway up with a screen around the top half. The roof was covered with weather-beaten wood shingles. Pine needles had partially covered one corner of it. There were three steps leading up to the door. Between the two cabins was a comfortable-looking hammock tied between two trees.

Hanna took out her comb and mirror and began combing her hair as they sat on the steps.

That was a refreshing swim, said Hanna. Did you bring your swimsuit? I’m sure you can borrow one from Arthur if you didn’t.

Yes, I always throw one in when I go on a weekend liberty, said Don. I got into a habit after being caught without one the first weekend I spent in Boston.

Maybe you’ll have time for a swim later, she said.

I hope so, said Don, as he watched her reach for her lipstick.

Don observed as she looked into the mirror she held close to her face and slowly applied the lipstick over the perfectly contoured lips. She moved her bottom lip against her top lip, and now they were both red.

Well, now I’m back to normal, she said as she saw a station wagon pull up in front of the house.

Arthur’s home. Ready to go up?

Okay.

Hanna picked up her beach bag and towel, and they walked up the path toward the house. The pine needles were soft under their feet, and the smell of pine was dominant in the air.

Hanna went into the bedroom to change while Don greeted his brother.

How’s the swabbie? asked Arthur as he shook Don’s hand. Bet you have a lot of sea stories to tell.

No, nothing as exciting as your marine corps days, said Don.

How is life aboard the ship? asked Arthur.

Well, the living quarters are cramped, but I wouldn’t trade it for a larger ship. It’s like a small community where you get to know everyone by their first name.

Dinner is served, said Amanda as if imitating a French maid.

Hanna entered the room. She was wearing a tight-fitting pair of yellow shorts with a blouse to match. Don noticed how fresh and pure she looked. She walked very graciously to the table as Don’s eyes followed her.

I see the navy has helped you, laughed Arthur as he had observed Don looking at her. My kid brother has grown up.

After dinner, they went into the living room and had coffee. This room had a huge stone fireplace on one wall with stools cut from white birch logs situated on both sides of the hearth. The ceiling was high with massive beams supporting it. It was very rustic in appearance.

Amanda had two cocker spaniels which were lying in one corner of the room. A cage with a canary was suspended from a bracket on the wall over where a large dark gray cat slept on the hearth.

That was a delicious meal, said Don while tugging at his waist and relaxing with a sigh as if to indicate he was full. Not like the chow aboard the ship.

Well, I hope not, said Amanda with a smile.

We’re all going to a cocktail party at the Spiegels tomorrow night, said Amanda. That is, if you want to.

That sounds nice, said Don.

Sounds like fun, said Hanna.

The Spiegels are within walking distance down the lake, said Arthur. He’s loaded.

No one ever misses their parties, said Amanda. They go to any length to make their guests feel welcome.

Arthur lit his pipe. Yes, Rod and Miriam can really put it on. They spend more time here than they do in New York. He owns a publishing house, and she had a large inheritance shortly before they were married.

You would never know they were rich, said Arthur. He’s one of the most down-to-earth ordinary-acting guys you’ll ever meet.

And Miriam loves to cook and work around the house even though she doesn’t have to.

Don, you’re sleeping in the bunkhouse, said Amanda. That’s what we call the two cabins down at the lake.

The one on the right is best, said Arthur. The bunk beds are better, and it is newer.

Anyplace will beat the crew’s quarters I’ve been accustomed to, said Don. Think I’ll go down and put my things away and look it over.

When you get ready, Hanna will show you around the area, said Amanda. You can take my car.

The road was rough and unpaved as Don drove Amanda’s Triumph car slowly so as not to knock a hole in the oil pan on the high places in the middle of the road.

Turn left here, said Hanna. And I’ll show you the houses along the lake.

Don shifted gears as he turned onto a road that was a little smoother but still unpaved. He couldn’t keep from noticing Hanna’s smooth leg near the gear shift, almost touching it. Don knew his hand was close to it when he changed to the high gear. He was careful not to let it touch her though.

That’s Dr. Lehmann’s place, said Hanna pointing to a house near the edge of the lake. There were several people playing croquet in the yard. Someone waved, and Hanna waved back and then said, I think Dr. Lehmann must work only about three months out of the year.

It must be nice, answered Don.

A little ways down the road, they passed another cottage, which was painted white.

Mrs. Coeburn lives there, said Hanna. She’s a character. Her husband died two years ago, and she stays on by herself. They used to spend the winters in Portland where he was an artist.

There she is. In the backyard, said Hanna. Let’s stop.

Sara Coeburn recognized Hanna and started walking toward the car. She must have been in her early fifties, but there was something worn-out and run-down about her. Her brown hair was tangled and pulled back with what seemed like a length of yarn. Her face was pale and drab. She wore an oversized sweatshirt and jeans.

She came closer and said, Hi. What’re you doing out this way?

This is Arthur’s brother, Don. I’m showing him around, said Hanna as she stood up in the convertible. He’s in the navy. His ship is in Newport.

Hello, said Don, you have a nice place here.

I used to date a few sailors in Portland before I got married, she said. You have to watch those sea wolves. I know for a fact.

Oh, I don’t think Don is in that category! said Hanna.

I never saw a sailor yet who didn’t have his mind on but one thing—getting into a girls pants, said Sara. Every time I went out with one, I always ended up in the back seat of a car on some lonely road. They used to tell me we were going to watch the submarine races.

Sara was straight and to the point, thought Don. I don’t think too many people fooled that gal.

Hanna felt embarrassed and attempted to change the subject. Isn’t that a new birdhouse, Sara? she asked.

Heavens no, child, that’s been there for about five years. You’re not from around these parts, are you, son? she asked Don. Your accent is southern.

I’m from Kentucky, he said rather proudly.

Well, I guess some people have to live there, said Sara.

We’ll be seeing you, Sara, said Hanna as she sat back down. I want to show Don around the lake before dark.

Come back when you can visit a while, yelled Sara as they drove off. And watch out for those navy boys, and be sure to stay in the front seat. She was still shouting after they were out of hearing range.

Sara’s really basically nice, said Hanna apologizing for her. She talks that way all the time. You just have to understand her. She means well.

She’s a character all right, said Don.

I’m sorry I had you stop there, said Hanna.

Oh, I found her quite amusing. It was an experience. I had to meet her sometimes if I keep visiting here.

Do you think you’ll get up here very often? asked Hanna.

I don’t know, Don said, as he shifted gears and was conscious not to let the gear shift knob or his hand touch her leg. I’m not sure how long the ship will stay in Newport. It’s our home port, you know?

The homes along the lake ranged from a summer cabin to large elegant mansions. Most were well kept and all had trees surrounding them.

I can see why people like to spend their time here, said Don. It’s so peaceful and relaxing, and the air is fresh and scented with pine.

Since I’ve lived in this area all my life, I guess I don’t notice the calmness and atmosphere as much as a person from the outside world, said Hanna. I do enjoy it though and have never thought of living anywhere else.

I have never been farther south than New York, said Hanna. Amanda’s nephew took me there one weekend.

You spent the weekend with a man in New York? Don asked, confused at her statement.

It’s not like you think, said Hanna. His mother was there. He lives with her.

Oh! said Don, I didn’t mean to insinuate…

Hanna interrupted, I know you didn’t. New York is a nice place to visit.

But you wouldn’t want to live there, right? answered Don.

Right, answered Hanna. I had a wonderful time though. I saw a play, went to the top of the Empire State Building, and had my first taste of champagne.

Which did you like best? Don asked.

Oh, I don’t know, replied Hanna. Probably the view from the Empire State Building. From up there, the people looked like little ants walking around. I felt like I was more in command of things. I felt more important in the world. And when I returned to the ground floor and walked out into the street, I became a little person again.

Hanna was very expressive with her eyes when she spoke. There was always a slight smile on her face, and she looked right into one’s eyes while communicating.

When are you going back to New York? Don asked.

Oh, I don’t know, answered Hanna. I haven’t thought about it. Let’s drive back, she said. I don’t know what Arthur and Amanda have planned for tonight.

Don started the car and pulled back onto the road and turned around.

Look out! screamed Hanna, as Don had to swerve, just missing a mailbox.

Sorry about that, he said.

As they drove back, he said, Will you look at that boat! He pointed out toward the water. Boy, it’s big! I wonder who owns it.

That looks like the Weinbergs’ boat, said Hanna. I’ll bet they came up for Spiegels’ party. Paul and Susan make a very nice couple. You’ll like them. His family owns a weaving mill in Fall River.

You mean Fall River in Massachusetts? asked Don.

Yes, answered Hanna.

That’s only about twenty-five miles from Newport.

CHAPTER 3

B ack at the house, Arthur was sitting in the yard smoking his pipe and reading the paper. Amanda was sitting on the grass beside him with the two cocker spaniels nestled in her lap. She was gently stroking the back of each one.

What do you think? asked Amanda.

It’s really nice, answered Don.

I can see why so many people from the cities have houses here. It’s one place where they can get away from it all.

The Weinbergs are coming over for a drink at about eight o’clock, said Amanda.

We just saw their boat on the lake, said Hanna.

Paul is a distant cousin of mine, said Amanda.

He sure has it made, said Arthur.

The Collins may come by too if they get finished with their work, said Amanda. They are putting up a screened-in porch.

The sun had gone down behind the trees, and the reflection bounced off the water into Don’s eyes.

The days are nice, said Hanna. But the evenings are sometimes cool. The mosquitoes get bad in the evenings after a hot day.

So I’ve noticed, said Don as he slapped his arm.

I’m going in to freshen up, said Hanna.

Don watched as she walked proudly toward the house and onto the porch. He watched the movement of the yellow shorts as they disappeared through the screen door.

Think I’ll go to the bunkhouse and get out of this uniform, he said.

Hanna was right, thought Don. The Weinbergs did appear to be a nice couple.

Paul and Susan, this is Arthur’s brother, Don, introduced Amanda.

How do you do? asked Don, extending his hand.

Paul was a handsome man. He was tall with dark hair. His lavender knit shirt fit him well. He must be on a weight-lifting program, Don thought, because he noticed his muscles were toned up on his hairy arm, and he appeared to be in his late twenties.

Susan was the tall model type with long black hair. She was neat and very attractive. Every hair was in place, and her makeup was applied perfectly without an error. She wore black slacks and a white blouse with black trim. She looked very classy and appeared to be in her late twenties.

A friendly smile was on her face as she said. Hello, where are you from?

I’m stationed in Newport, said Don. I’m in the navy.

Oh, how exciting, said Susan. Is it dangerous?

No, not too dangerous, answered Don.

Paul didn’t have to go in the service, said Susan. Flat feet or something like that.

Do you have to advertise it? said Paul unhappily. Anyway, it was asthma, not flat feet.

I’m sorry, darling. I was joking with you, she said as she reached over and kissed his cheek. This seemed to satisfy Paul.

Where are you from? Susan asked.

Kentucky, Don answered.

Paul and I were in Kentucky once when we attended the Kentucky Derby. It’s a beautiful state. We could see all the many horse farms from the plane as we flew in.

What else is Kentucky noted for? She asked.

Besides the Derby, it is famous for fast horses, beautiful women, bourbon, and basketball.

Which are your favorites? She asked.

Beautiful women and basketball, answered Don.

Now that we have narrowed it down, it gives me a better understanding of who you are, she smiled.

Oh! laughed Don. I am not an expert on either category. I was just prioritizing them.

Amanda said, Excuse me for interrupting, but the Collins’ are arriving. They must have finished their porch.

Don, meet Paul and Bernie, said Amanda.

We have two Pauls now, Amanda said.

Yes, said Paul Collins. I guess you’ll have to refer to us as Paul the Atheist, and Paul the Jew.

Which is which? smiled Don.

I’ll let you guess, said Paul.

You’re not an atheist or a Jew, said Bernie to her husband as she reached out to shake Don’s hand. My real name is Bernadette but my friends call me Bernie.

Yes, said her husband, her mother had a vision when Bernie was born.

Oh, she did not, snapped Bernie.

Your mother still believes you were created through immaculate conception, said Paul jokingly.

Don’t pay any attention to him, said Bernie. He is always fulla bull.

Hi, said Hanna as she came out of the house, wearing white slacks, white sneakers, white midriff, and a white sash around her hair. Her torso showed up more vividly against the white.

My, look at the waistline! said Bernie. Mine used to be that trim.

Them days are gone forever, clowned her husband.

You liked it then, she said.

He still likes it, laughed Arthur. But he won’t admit it.

Yes, I’ll never forget the first time we met, said Bernie. We were at my sorority party. I looked across the room, and there he was, King Kong in person. Our song was ‘Indian Love Call’. It surely doesn’t fit us now. He saw me and came straight toward me, carrying a can of beer for me. He was always nice to me like that. Yes, our lives began with a can of hot beer, but now the fizz has gone from it.

Paul Collins reached over and put his arm around Bernie and said, You know I wouldn’t trade you in, honey. You’re too good to me.

Yeah, she said sarcastically, you’ll never find a woman who can open your beer cans with the precision I can.

Paul Collins kissed her on the forehead and said. We promised we wouldn’t fight tonight, remember?

Yes, we did, she said as she put her arm around his waist and leaned her head over on his chest.

Amanda came out with a tray of drinks that looked refreshing. Let’s see, Susan, she said. You take a martini. Paul takes scotch and water, and Bernie and Paul take Budweiser, if my memory serves me correctly.

You’re a good hostess, Amanda, Paul said. Your capability for remembering overwhelms me.

What’ll you have, Don? asked Amanda.

Oh, anything you have fixed, said Don.

Let me fix it for him, said Hanna as she started toward the house. Want to come with me?

Okay, said Don as he caught up with her.

Hanna got out the glasses and ice and began mixing a drink.

Don watched the gracefulness with which she moved about in the kitchen. She is so refreshing and pure to look at, he thought.

Don watched as she worked at the counter with her back toward him. He noticed the curves of her body, the tan on her shoulders and back, and tightness of the white slacks over her sexy figure.

What a body! Don said to himself. He couldn’t remember one so inviting.

Here you go, said Hanna, turning and serving the drink to Don.

He took a sip. Umm, good, he said. What’s in it?

My own secret recipe, she said.

I’ll tell you someday.

Do you always look so radiant? asked Don.

I don’t look radiant, answered Hanna. You’ve been at sea too long.

Tell me about yourself, he said.

There’s not much to tell. Nothing real exciting has ever happened to me. I was born here and lived here all my life with my parents and sister. My sister is my twin. You’ll like her. She’s the intelligent one in the family and very pretty.

Where is she now? asked Don.

She has been visiting in Vermont with one of her college suite mates. She is studying pre-law at Dartmouth. She wants to be a lawyer. She’ll be back tomorrow, and you can meet her.

I’ll look forward to it, said Don.

What are your future plans? he asked.

Well, I’m going back to Wellesley in September, she said.

Are you going to college?

Yes, I’ll be in my junior year, she said.

That’s great, said Don. What are you majoring in?

I’m also in pre-law right now, she said. But who knows what I’ll end up doing.

You have a head start on me. I would be a junior now if it weren’t for the time spent in the navy.

Tell me, he said. Are all the girls at Wellesley snobbish?

Do you think I’m snobbish? she asked.

Of course not, said Don. Far from it, but you hear so many things nowadays that you don’t know what to believe.

No, the girls there are really nice, said Hanna. They would do anything for you. They come from all over America, and they bring with them all the experiences from the cultures they were raised in to include the intellectual and artistic tastes and refinements of their part of the country which helps each of us to become more knowledgeable and well-rounded.

Don took a sip of his drink and turned toward Hanna. He was looking directly into her eyes, and she was returning his glance. He imagined that her lips must be as soft and tender as they looked. They continued looking into each other’s eyes. Don’s heart began to beat faster.

Hanna turned away and said, Let’s go outside with the others. We don’t want them to think we are antisocial.

I’d rather stay in here, he said, but if you insist.

Come on, she said as she took his hand and led him toward the door.

Don could feel vibrations in the pit of his stomach from the touch of her hand.

Did you fix him up? said Arthur.

I tried, said Hanna, as she smiled at Don.

The moon cast vivid shadows off the trees around them as they all sat and told their favorite jokes. In the distance could be heard crickets and frogs in symphony as the night grew older.

CHAPTER 4

T he next morning, Don was awakened with the sun shining through the screen. He looked at his watch. It was ten o’clock. Boy! I must have been tired, he said. He shaved in the sink. In order to take a bath, he would have to go to the house or to the lake. The morning sun felt so good, and it was already hot, so Don decided to take his soap and towel a few steps over to the lake and take a bath in it. He looked up toward the house and saw no signs of life. He only had his dungarees on. He slipped out of them. Everyone must still be asleep , he thought. I’ll just ease my naked body into the water quietly.

Although the sun was hot, the water was a bit brisk for that early in the day. He held his breath and ducked his whole body under at once.

Wow, that is cold, shivered Don, as he began rapidly applying soap to his body. He kept looking up toward the house to make sure no one was around because he didn’t want to be caught in an embarrassing situation.

He heard a screen door slam, and he waded out of the water in his nudeness and ran into the bunkhouse and hurriedly dried and slipped into his dungarees.

Good morning, a voice was heard. He could recognize that soft voice as being Hanna’s.

May I come in?

Sure, come on, said Don. He was drying his hair and back.

What did you do? Take a bath in the lake? asked Hanna.

Yes, and I feel one hundred percent refreshed, answered Don.

Wasn’t it cold? she asked.

Yes, but invigorating.

Have you ever taken a bath in the lake?

No, she said. But I’d like to sometime.

Why don’t you try it? asked Don. I’ll leave, and go up to the house while you bathe.

You wouldn’t have to leave, she said. You could stay here.

I could? he said, rather startled.

Why, of course, she said. Then Hanna became silent for a moment. Oh gee. I’m embarrassed, she said. I’ll bet you thought… I’ll bet you thought… that I…

That you would bathe in the nude? said Don.

Oh! Am I embarrassed? she asked as she put her hands over her face and turned toward the water. I didn’t even think of that. I would naturally wear a bathing suit.

You couldn’t get a complete bath that way, laughed Don.

Come on, she said, trying to change the subject. Let’s go up to the house for breakfast.

Don grabbed his shirt and started putting it on as they walked toward the house.

Hanna was still a little red in the face.

The bacon and eggs looked and smelled delicious as they sat down to eat.

Where’s Arthur? asked Don.

He had to go to Bangor today, said Amanda. He’ll be back in plenty of time for the party. How did you like the Collins and Weinbergs last night?

Great, answered Don. You have plenty of swell people around here.

Susan is pretty, isn’t she? asked Hanna.

Yes, rather attractive, answered Don.

She surely did like to listen to your sea stories, said Amanda. Paul mentioned how much attention she paid to you.

Oh, he didn’t think anything, said Don rather shyly.

The phone rang, and Amanda answered it. It’s Abram, she said. Yes, she’s here. He wants to talk to you, Hanna.

Don poured another cup of coffee and walked outside and sat down on a rail fence and looked out toward the lake as he sipped the hot drink so Hanna could have her privacy while on the phone.

Hanna came out. Abram is coming up, she said.

From New York? asked Don.

Yes.

Don couldn’t tell whether she was excited or disappointed.

When will he get here? he said.

About six o’clock.

Oh, said Don.

Look, it is such a glorious and wonderful day, she said. I’m not going to let you waste it. Go get your bathing suit on and meet me at the dock. She ran into the house while Don walked down to the bunkhouse and took off his dungarees and shirt and slipped on his trunks.

He was sitting on the dock, dangling his feet in the water when Hanna arrived. She had on a two-piece red swimsuit. She looked even more beautiful than before. The contour of her breasts made the top of her swimsuit very noticeable. There seemed to be more of Hanna than the suit. Don noticed that even her naval was perfect.

Hanna, did you hurt yourself? asked Don.

When? answered Hanna.

When you fell down from heaven," he laughed.

Now I know you’re crazy, she said.

They must have thrown the mold away when they made you, mumbled Don.

What? asked Hanna?

Nothing, answered Don Just talking to myself.

Have you ever paddled a canoe? she asked.

I used to be a Boy Scout, answered Don. I’m sure I remember.

Hanna sat in the front and Don sat in the rear of the canoe. It was nice and peaceful as they paddled across the lake. The water was calm and smooth. Hanna is pretty good with a paddle, thought Don. But he could hardly keep his eyes off the firm-looking contours covered in red.

You look good in red, said Don.

Thanks. You look good in navy blue.

You didn’t have to say that, he said.

I know I didn’t. I wouldn’t have if it weren’t true.

I’m taking you to a special place. See that small island. No one ever uses it, and it has a perfect little beach.

They pulled the canoe ashore, and Hanna spread a blanket near the edge of the water.

Sit down, she said in a soft voice.

Don sat down and then leaned over on one elbow. He watched as Hanna put down her bag and knelt down beside him. Isn’t it peaceful and quiet? she said.

Yes, this is the life. Wish I could spend the rest of my navy hitch right here.

You’d soon get bored, she said.

That would depend on the circumstances.

What do you mean?

Well, where you are is important in the way you feel about it. But the person who shares the experience with you either makes it or breaks it.

Yes, you’re right, she said. Sometimes, I paddle out here by myself and just sit for hours. Sometimes, I am very contented and happy here, and then there are times when I’m sad and lonely.

You are too young to be sad and lonely, said Don. Who else has been here with you?

You are the only one, she said as she flipped the water with her toes.

Has Abram ever been here?

I said you’re the only one.

Why did you let me share this place with you?

I don’t know. I didn’t think about it. I just paddled straight here. I just thought you’d enjoy it.

I do, said Don. I do very much.

She reached into her bag and took out a portable radio and turned it on. The music was soft, the sun was warm, and the company was exciting. If only I didn’t have to go back to Newport tomorrow, thought Don.

There are many places I’d like to show you, said Hanna. Maybe you can come back up soon.

Yes, I hope so, said Don.

Hanna lay down on the blanket with her feet in the water. The sun feels so good, she sighed.

Yes, it does, he said as he looked at her hair lying on her shoulder while she was lying on her stomach. His eyes moved to her back, down to her thighs, and back again to her face which was turned in his direction. She had her eyes closed. He wanted to touch her. His hand reached over and stroked her hair and stopped and rested on her back just above her halter strap. It was hot from the sun. Don felt a thrill go through him as he left his hand there.

Hanna opened her eyes and smiled at him.

You’re beautiful, he wanted to say but kept his thoughts to himself.

They lay there for over an hour. Don dozed off momentarily. When he awoke, he saw Hanna smiling.

What is it? he said in a stupor.

You have the cutest snoring sound, she said.

Come on, I don’t snore, do I?

Yes, but it’s a nice snore. I like it.

Well, in that case, I hope you get to hear me snore many more times.

We’d better go, she said.

Don jumped up and reached down to help her up. He took one hand, then the other, and pulled her up. Hanna was now in front of him. He noticed her sparkling green eyes, her delicate complexion, and her soft appealing lips. They both stood looking into each other’s eyes for what seemed an eternity to Don.

She is so lovely, he thought, as his eyes were fixed on hers.

His heart was beating faster from just the thought of her lips being that near. He moved his face closer to hers, almost touching. Her face was tilted upward toward his. Her lips were slightly parted and moist and just seemed to be waiting, he thought. And as Don bent closer, Hanna backed away and reached down for her radio and blanket and said. Don, do you want the back or the front of the canoe going back?

The back, I guess, said Don, rather dejectedly.

The water was calm and smooth as the canoe slid across the top of it from the motion of their paddles. It’s just beautiful, isn’t it? asked Hanna.

What is?

There is beauty in the water, the scenery, the air, and just everything about today.

I never used to notice things around me, said Don. But you sort of make me more aware of the things I’ve been missing.

I don’t think you’ve missed too much, said Hanna, as she turned and grinned at him.

Who’s your dentist? asked Don.

Why do you ask?

Your teeth are so pretty and white.

That sounds like a TV commercial, she said with a smile.

It was meant to be romantic.

They both laughed as the canoe approached the dock. Don got out to give Hanna a hand, but she was already out and began pulling the canoe up on the bank.

Here, let me help you, he said. That’s too heavy for you.

No, it isn’t. I do it all the time by myself.

Well, guess I’d better go up to the house, she said. I have so many things to do before tonight.

Can’t you stay and talk with me a little longer? asked Don. I have a feeling I won’t be seeing much of you after six o’clock.

Okay, I can stay a little longer, she said. Let’s go over to the hammock and you can get comfortable.

Don lay back in the hammock and Hanna sat on the edge by him.

I certainly appreciate you taking me to your favorite beach, he said.

I enjoyed it, she said. It’s sort of my retreat. Everyone needs a place to be able to go and think things out.

Thanks for sharing it with me, he said. By the way, what was that noise out on the lake I heard last night?

Oh, you must mean the loons, she said. They are birds which are plentiful around here. Don’t you think they sound lonely and far away?

Yes, that’s sort of the thoughts that went through my mind when I heard them, he said.

It’s a sad sound, she said. Sort of like someone crying out for attention or wanting to belong.

Hanna took a deep breath of the pine-scented air, and as she did, she unconsciously straightened her back and extended her breasts to their fullest.

You’ll never have to worry about crying out for attention, said Don as he moved his eyes away from her healthy looking torso.

Tell me more about yourself, said Hanna.

I’d rather talk about you, he said.

Why did you choose the navy? she asked.

Travel, excitement, and adventure, said Don as he sat up in the hammock and saluted with his right hand.

Hanna laughed. You’re crazy. But I guess that’s as good a reason as any.

I had two brothers in the marines and three brothers-in-law in the army, said Don. Maybe I wanted to be different. I don’t know. But it’s been quite an experience so far.

Amanda said that joining the navy was an escape for you.

What do you mean an escape? asked Don.

The hardships of a large family struggling in a coal-mining town, she said.

I don’t know, said Don. It all depends on what one is looking for in life. There are those who have found their happiness right there in Lynch, Kentucky, and wouldn’t think of trading it for anything. I could probably have been happy there had I stayed and never left.

I think you’d be happy anywhere, she said. You seem appreciative of everything.

Well, one thing I appreciate is the three well-nourished meals a day I receive in the navy, he said. At home, in Harlan County, there were times when we had three full meals a day and there were times when we didn’t know where the next meal would come from.

Why was that? she asked.

It was a town owned by the US Steel Corporation headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and everyone had the same employer. If a strike occurred in the steel mills of Pennsylvania and surrounding areas, then there was no need for the miners to work because the mills were shut down and they didn’t need the coal for their furnaces. Also, if the railroad went on strike, the miners couldn’t work because there were no coal cars to haul the coal out. And if that didn’t occur, there were the times when the United Mine Workers of America Union under the leadership of John L. Lewis would go on strike in order to gain benefits and pay raises. Sometimes, the men were out of work up to sixty or more days at a time. No paychecks were coming in, but we still had to eat."

My goodness, what did the people do to survive? said Hanna.

We always planted corn, beans, potatoes, and other vegetables on the hillside. When these were harvested, my mother would can them and store them on shelves in a pantry, so we could use them through the winter months. We also raised a pig or two each year that we could butcher when they grew to be hogs. But there were times when these ran out and we didn’t know which way to turn, but they always seemed to end the strike just in time.

That must have been awful, said Hanna.

It didn’t seem that bad then because everyone was in the same boat.

I’ll bet you have nightmares about those days, don’t you, Don?

No, I really don’t, he said. Those days were in the minority. Most of the years were good years.

It makes you appreciate what you have now though, doesn’t it? she asked.

Yes, I suppose so, he said. The only thing that bothers me is an incident that I can’t seem to forget.

What’s that? she asked.

It dates back to the time when I was in about the seventh grade, he said. For dinner one day, we all had a bowl of oatmeal and a half of a biscuit each. I’ll never forget how hungry we were. My younger brother ate his half biscuit and his oatmeal like he was starving and then he reached for my piece of biscuit and I was hungry and wouldn’t let him have it. I ate it, and then my oatmeal. It wasn’t until after I had some food in my stomach that I realized I should have let him have my bread.

But you all had equal portions, said Hanna. Why should you feel guilty?

He was my little brother, and he was hungry, said Don. It seemed like I lived that moment over every night for the next year or two. I haven’t felt guilty over anything else like I have that.

Do you still lose sleep over it? asked Hanna.

Well, no, I don’t think of it anymore unless, I am reminded of it by some conversation about home, he said. After all, my brother is better off than I am now. Maybe I can make it up to him someday.

You’ve already made it up to him, she said.

How? asked Don.

By being so concerned and having such deep feelings about him, she said. I’m sure he forgot it the next day. And I’m sure he would say you have made it up to him hundredfold by being the kind of big brother you were.

How do you know what kind I was?

I just know, said Hanna. I have always been a good judge of character. Oh! Golly, look what time it is. I’ve got to run.

She stood up and started to walk toward the house. Don jumped up and grabbed her by the arm. She turned and faced him. They stood silently for a moment looking into each other eyes.

I enjoyed the day, he said.

I did too.

Don slowly let go of her arm. See you at the party, he said.

Yes, she said, I’ll see you there.

She turned and walked toward the house. Don watched every movement of her body. He wasn’t looking at her with the sexual desire he had earlier. He looked at her differently—with a strange feeling.

CHAPTER 5

T here were many cars parked at Spiegels’ house as Amanda, Arthur, and Don arrived. From the sound of the music, laughter, and talking, it appeared that the party was well underway. They walked to the front door and rang the doorbell. Nobody answered since the bell couldn’t be heard above the music and talking. Arthur opened the door and walked in. The entranceway was decorated in an old English setting. The suit of armor appeared to be guarding the stairway, but the glamour was taken from it by someone’s hat hanging from its hatchet and another on top of it.

They walked into the living room where the center of the party seemed to be. Hello there! a voice said.

Rachel, darling, said Amanda as they hugged each other. The place looks lively tonight.

Yes, everybody is up for the weekend, said Rachel.

This is Don, said Amanda. Arthur’s brother.

Rachel was an honest-looking woman of about forty-five to fifty. She could be more attractive if she would fix herself up, thought Don.

You have a nice place here, he said as he shook Rachel’s extended hand.

It’s nice you could come, she said. A friend of Amanda and Arthur’s is always welcome or should I say relative of theirs? She reached over and kissed Arthur. Make yourselves at home, she said. The bar is over there. I’ll try to find Rod. I doubt if he can stand up by now.

Don looked around the room. He didn’t see Hanna. He recognized the Collins. It looked like they were arguing again. He felt someone tap him on the shoulder.

Hello, Sailor boy. Don turned and was facing Susan Weinberg. I thought you had changed your mind about coming, she said.

No, said Don.

Arthur got home later than expected.

Susan looks much more sophisticated and mature than she did last night, thought Don. Her dark eyes sparkled and her black hair was pulled back upon her head. Her figure was detailed much more in the gown she was wearing.

You know, she said. I’ve been thinking about some of those experiences you talked about last night, and now you have sparked my interest. I never realized there was so much happening on a boat.

We call it a ship, said Don as he smiled. We’re required to, you know.

What’s the difference between a boat and a ship? she asked.

A boat is any vessel that can be hoisted aboard another vessel, he said. You aren’t really interested in seamanship jargon, are you?

It’s fascinating, she said. What kind of ship is it?

It’s a destroyer.

What kind of ship is a destroyer?

Destroyers act as screens against attacks by larger ships and by aircraft. Their torpedoes are used in making hit-and-run attacks against heavier enemy ships. They lay smoke screens for other ships. They act as short range scouts, they escort convoys, and they support landing operations. For their size, destroyers carry a big punch, Don explained. Now, you are an expert on the most important ship in the US Navy. Doesn’t that make you feel good?

Thank you for the nautical education. smiled Susan.

Where’s Paul? asked Don.

He’s in the study, talking stock and bonds.

He’s always talking business. Someday, he’s going to turn into a mutual fund.

You benefit from it in the end, don’t you? You reap the rewards, he said.

There’s more to life than a financial page, she said disgustedly.

Don didn’t know how to answer her. He knew she was on a subject that irritated her.

You wait here, and I’ll go get you a drink, said Susan. The way you look tonight, you are the one who should be waited on, said Don.

Don’t be silly. You’re a guest in New England, she said as she made her way toward the bar.

Don glanced around the room. There were conversations and laughter in every corner. Sitting near the fireplace on the floor was an attractive blond surrounded by males. The gown she was wearing had no back and was lacking some material in the front. As she laughed, you could see the huge mounds of flesh vibrate under the flimsy material. Every time she said something, all the men would laugh. She was certainly the center of attention, not only with them, but with a few of the wives who were staring at her with disgust. She leaned back on both hands and turned her head toward the ceiling and laughed repeatedly at one of the men’s conversation. All eyes were on her frontal position every time she did that. She took out a cigarette from a pearl case, and before she could put it to her lips, there were three lighters already lit.

Here you go, said Susan, handing Don a drink.

Thanks, he said. You’ll have to let me return the favor sometimes.

I will, she said as she put her lips to her glass and sipped while tilting her eyes upward to catch his.

Nice eyes, muttered Don.

What? Susan replied.

Nice night, he said quickly.

At that moment, he saw Hanna in the entranceway. He remembered her in her shorts, her slacks, and her swimsuit. But now, he was seeing her in a gown that was hugging her body without appearing too tight.

She looks like a princess, thought Don. I didn’t think she could look more beautiful than she did last night.

Don excused himself from Susan and walked over to Hanna and said, You look terrific tonight. Where’s Abram?

She looked startled for a moment, and then said, You must be Don. Hanna has told me all about you. She held out her hand and said, I’m Holly, Hanna’s sister.

Don felt dizzy for a moment and looked at her and said, Hanna told me she had a twin sister, but she forgot to tell me her sister was an identical twin. Wow! This can be confusing.

I know, said Holly, people are always getting us mixed up. But after knowing us for a while, people can begin telling us apart.

I sure hope so, said Don, as he kept staring at Holly, trying to determine if there were any differences in their appearances. He couldn’t see any.

About that time, he saw Hanna coming in the door with a young man holding her arm. She wasn’t dressed identical to Holly, but she sure looked like her.

That must be Abram with her, he thought. He was not like Don had pictured him. He was better-looking but not much taller than Hanna. He had a small black moustache. Don watched as