The Old Brick

By Judy Lennington

Drew hated living in the city.  He was happy when they made him postmaster in a small rural area in Ohio.  At first, he was concerned about raising his children in the area after finding six pictures of missing children in a drawer at the Post Office.  It was comforting when he learned that the pictures dated as far back a

• Language: English
• Publisher: TOPLINK PUBLISHING, LLC
• Release date: Aug 25, 2017
• ISBN: 9781947620810

Judy Lennington

Deb’s Alienation is the 19th novel written by Judy Lennington, a retired factory worker of thirty-eight years. Growing up in a family of storytellers, she continues the family tradition. Only now, she hopes to tell her stories to the world.

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The Old Brick

By:

Judy Lennington

Copyright © 2017 by Judy Lennington.

HARDBACK: 978-1-947620-80-3

PAPERBACK: 978-1-947620-79-7

EBOOK: 978-1-947620-81-0

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

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Thank you Dave; my love, my right arm. With you at my side; all things are possible.

I would like to dedicate this book to James, Craig, and Gregory Andrews. Thank you for so many good memories and so many joyful experiences.

Thank you to Postmaster Gail at the Fowler, Ohio Post Office, and to Linda McCreary of Negley, Ohio, and my friend Robin Humphrey.

A special thank you to the following people:

Robert and Eric Williams of New Waterford, Ohio, Rick and Karin Gorby of East Palestine Gorby’s, and Steven Telischak of East Palestine, Ohio, McDonalds.

Thank you to the citizens of Negley, Ohio, East Palestine, Ohio, Lake Tomahawk, and to our brave men and women of the Negley, Ohio Volunteer Fire Department.

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Drew Carrington was carrying a box of priority mail boxes from the back of the post office for the display. He cut the box open with a box cutter he carried clipped to his postal uniform. He had taken his PTF test, (part time flexible), and had passed moving him up to one of the postmasters positions. He had been located here, in Columbus, Ohio, for the past seven years after his military discharge. He started out in a small post office outside of Columbus for the first three years after landing the postal position. Now he found himself working out of one of the biggest post offices in the city. He was well respected throughout the community.

Drew arranged the envelopes according to size and positioned them neatly on the display. Mr. Gregory entered the corridor and spoke to Drew. Drew had learned many of the regular’s names from their routine visits and transactions. Mr. Gregory was an old timer. He was a retired policeman. He often stopped to jeer Drew and the others for a few moments on his visits to the post office.

Drew glanced up at the clock on the wall. He had three more minutes until closing time. Mr. Gregory noticed him glancing at the clock as he bid him good day. Drew carried the empty box to the back. Marcia Sawyer and Darcy Kelly were chatting together on their way out the back door. Thomas Teil and Riley Mower were waiting to walk the girls out. Drew would stay behind to close up.

Finally everything was done. Drew looked around one last time before locking the back door and stepping out into the parking lot. His car was parked inside a fenced area where the mail jeeps were kept. Drew drove through the gate, getting out and locking it securely before driving home. It was right in the heart of rush hour traffic. Drew hated this drive every day. It was the worst part of the day as far as he was concerned. He shifted in his seat as he glanced in his rear view mirror at the pick-up truck that was following too closely behind him.

The speed limit was fifty-five miles an hour on this stretch of road. Drew glanced down at his speedometer. He was traveling seventy miles an hour and just keeping up with the traffic around him. It was a double lane highway traveling east bound. The west bound traffic traveled other double lanes on the other side of a concrete medium strip. Drew watched for an opportunity to change lanes. He put his right turning signal on and prayed the pick-up truck was back far enough to see the signal. There was an opening in the right lane and Drew made his move. He felt his palms sweating. As he shifted lanes, the pick-up moved forward to ride the bumper of the car that had been in front of Drew earlier. Drew exhaled. He turned the radio off. He passed a highway patrol car that was parked along the side of the road. This was normal for this time of day. It was too dangerous to pull a car over along this road during rush hour. He glanced at his speedometer again. He was traveling at sixty-five miles an hour. His exit was coming up soon. He put his turning signal on and kept right. He merged off the highway onto a single lane side street.

Drew stopped at a red light. He could breathe easier now. A homeless man stood on the corner looking around in a confused state. An orange barrel blocked an open man hole where some city workers were finishing up for the day. The light turned green and Drew proceeded forward.

Sharla would be home when he got there. She worked at a clinic four blocks to the left. She was usually home when he arrived. Sharla worked in billing and scheduling. They had been married for twelve years. They had gone to school together and did not run in the same circles. After graduating, Drew joined the marines and went to fight in Desert Storm. When he came home they met again and started dating. They married after a short time. Drew got a job at one of the smaller post offices and had been transferred twice to other districts, all within driving distances of home. After a lot of hard work he was given the position of postmaster at the main office in the city. There were three postmasters working out of this particular post office. It was a forty minute drive every day in terrible traffic, but it was a good job and it paid decent wages.

Drew and Sharla had three children. Elissa was nine years old. She had dark hair and green eyes like her mother. Thomas was seven. He was the spitting image of Drew with his auburn hair and brown eyes. Then there was Damon who was six and had a look all his own. He had auburn hair like Drew, but green eyes like Sharla. Sharla often teased him saying, You belong to the mailman.

Drew turned onto a smaller side street. This was the street he lived on. As he proceeded down the drive he passed Elissa and two of her friends walking home from school. They must have had to stay over for some sort of practice. Elissa was very athletic. She played every sport event they would let her. She was smaller than the other girls her age, but she could run like the wind. Drew waved as he pulled up to the curb. Would you girls like a ride home? He asked.

No thank you Mr. Carrington. Sheila Morris said. We don’t have that far to go.

Drew nodded at Elissa. Get in Honey. He said. Oh Daddy, can’t I walk with my friends? She pleaded.

Drew shook his head. Come on Elissa. You can talk with your friends tomorrow. He replied.

Elissa sighed as she said her good byes and climbed into the Subaru Outback. Drew waved to the girls and continued on toward home. He pulled into the drive, pressing the garage door opener on the rear view mirror of his Outback. The door rose and Drew pulled inside right next to Sharla’s Subaru Legacy. Elissa got out of the car and slammed the door. She was pouting. Drew exited the car and went through the inside door that led into the kitchen. He could smell the casserole instantly.

Sharla went to him immediately. She hugged him while holding her wet hands away from him. How was the trip home today? She asked.

It was brutal, as always. Drew said. How was your day?

Brutal. Sharla said laughing. I had to call clients and beg for payments. You know how I hate doing that.

Drew shook his head and said, I’ll fight the traffic any day. He went to the stove, What’s for dinner?

Sharla swung a dish towel at him. Stay away from my masterpiece. I have a ham and scalloped potato casserole in the oven. It won’t be ready for another thirty minutes, so go get your shower. She commanded.

Yes Mam. Drew said laughing. He went into the living room where Thomas and Damon were playing a video game. It’s a nice day out there. Why don’t you boys go outdoors and get some sunshine.

Thomas looked up at his father and said, It’s boring riding our bikes around the back yard, and we aren’t allowed to ride them on the front sidewalk.

Drew narrowed his gaze. You know why you can’t ride out front. It isn’t safe to play out front anymore. He replied.

Other kids do it. Damon whined.

Other kids come up missing too. Drew said. He turned and walked toward the bathroom to shower before dinner.

They ate around the kitchen table. Sharla and Elissa cleared the table and loaded the dishwasher. Drew made the boys turn the television off and go out back while he read the daily paper. Soon the sun was going down and it was time to go in for the evening. They had a rule that there was no television from seven o’clock to eight every day. It was a time for family bonding. The kids protested nearly daily, but in the end they sat around the living room talking about what was going on in their lives.

The kids were put to bed at eight-thirty during the week. On weekends they were allowed to stay up until nine o’clock. There were just three more weeks of school until summer vacation. At that time, Mrs. Joseph would come in during the day to stay with them while Sharla and Drew worked. Once the children were in bed, Drew and Sharla had a few moments alone. They lay in the bed, side by side, talking.

I really hate days like today. Sharla said. I hear so many sad stories and it breaks my heart to ask for money when these people are struggling to make ends meet. I remember those days. She said turning to look at Drew.

I know, Honey. I’m sorry. Drew said placing his arm under Sharla’s head. Can’t you get someone else to make the calls?

No that’s my job, Drew. Besides, I see some of them when they come into the office and they look like they are barely making ends meet. Then they get sick on top of all of that. Sharla said.

Drew kissed her tenderly. I don’t know what to tell you Honey. Times are hard for everybody right now. Sometimes I think those people are the ones that are better off.

Sharla pulled back. Drew, how could you say such a thing? She asked.

Well, He began. Think of it Sharla. They are already living on a thread. They are survivors. Some folks don’t know how to survive without their computers, smart phones, or ATM machines.

Sharla stared up at the ceiling. You have a point, but it certainly doesn’t make it any easier. If you take away from the rich man, he still has something left. If you take away from a poor man, you leave him with nothing. She said.

Drew chuckled. Spoken like a true Democrat. He said.

He kissed her then. The next morning he hurried down to breakfast. He was running late. Sharla had his breakfast ready and waiting when he arrived. Elissa and Thomas had already left for school. Sharla would drop Damon off on her way into the office. Drew ate hurriedly and kissed the two of them before leaving for the post office.

Once again he found himself fighting the heavy traffic as he made his way into work. The traffic was heavy on this road all day long, but at rush hour all rules and regulations were tossed out the window. It was like driving in a NASCAR race twice daily. He arrived at the post office and entered the gated area where his car was kept. He went inside by way of the back door.

As the day wore on he found himself doing a little bit of everything. He covered for each of the employees during lunch and then he found a quiet space in the back to eat his brown bag lunch. Some of them went out for lunch, but Drew didn’t want to go back out on the highway until it was absolutely necessary. He was just finishing his sandwich when Marcia appeared and announced, You have a phone call, Drew.

Drew shoved his remaining lunch into the bag and went to the phone. It was his boss, Paul Hampton. Drew my friend, how’s it going? Paul asked.

Everything is fine, Paul. How are you and the family? Drew asked.

Everyone is fine. I know you are wondering why I’m calling, so I’ll get right to the point. We are having a problem finding a replacement at one of our smaller branch offices in a rural area there in Ohio. We need someone to go in and clean up. Well, the truth is, we need someone we can trust to go in and take over the whole operation. Paul said.

Drew swallowed hard. He felt beads of sweat forming on his forehead. Where is this rural area in Ohio you are talking about? He asked.

It’s a one stop town called, Negley, Ohio. It’s located out near the Pennsylvania line. There isn’t much there, but they’ve been having a lot of problems there. The closest town is East Palestine, and it isn’t even a city. It’s really out there I’m afraid, but we don’t have anyone else to send. I thought of you right away, Drew. We need someone we can trust and frankly, you have the best track record for this sort of thing.

You mean I have the least amount of seniority. Drew thought to himself. He wouldn’t dare speak the words out loud. When am I to leave? He asked.

Well, that’s the thing, Drew. We need someone there like yesterday. Paul said. When Drew didn’t respond right away he said, I will take care of everything there. You do what you have to do as far as getting your family ready to relocate. Drew ran his hands through his hair. Relocate?

He asked.

Yes, that’s right. Did I forget to mention it is probably going to be a permanent transfer? Paul asked.

Permanent? Drew asked. No you didn’t mention that.

Well, it is. Now you take the day and get yourself ready to move. Don’t worry about things there. Under the circumstances, and it being such a short notice; we’ll give you till Monday. I don’t know what you have to do as far as the family goes, but I know you’ve made this move before. I’ll be waiting to hear from you after you arrive in Negley. It was really good to talk to you again, Drew. Give the wife and kids my regards. Bye now. Paul said before hanging up the phone.

Drew stood there holding the phone in his hand. He looked at the receiver as he hung it up. He had been transferred before, but locally. This was the first time he would be required to move. He walked out to the front desk in a daze. Marcia looked up at him. What is it Drew? She asked.

I’ve been re-located. I’m to be in Negley, Ohio on Monday. Drew said.

Marcia gave her customer a book of stamps and change before she asked, Negley, Ohio. Where is that? They went to a map of all the post offices in Ohio. They were marked by little red dots.

He said it was near the Pennsylvania state line.

Drew said running his finger across the map. Here it is. He said pointing to the spot. He looked up to see the faces waiting in line. We better get back to the desk. He stepped up to an open spot and said, I can help someone here. A woman with a walker made her way to the desk. His ears were ringing. He handed her a book of stamps and took her money. He remembered wondering if that was what she had asked for. How was he ever going to explain this to Sharla?

Drew clocked out and drove through the heavy traffic home. The house was empty. He went upstairs and began to pack a bag. He would leave early tomorrow morning just like he was going to work. He would go to Negley and try to find a place for Sharla and the kids. He glanced up at the kitchen clock as he poured himself a glass of iced tea. He had another three hours before Sharla got home from work. He went to the garage and started the push mower. The least he could do was mow the yard before he left town.

It took him less than an hour to mow the yard. He drank another glass of iced tea before driving to the local filling station. Jerry Carlisle stood behind the counter wiping his hands on a greasy rag. He smiled as Drew entered the filling station. What can I do for you today, Drew? He asked with a smile.

Drew nodded toward his Subaru and said, I need an oil change and the tires rotated, Jerry.

Jerry came around the counter. Sure thing, Drew. Are you going on a road trip or something?

How did you know that? Drew asked.

Jerry laughed. You were just in here not two months ago. You are not usually this punctual.

Drew nodded his head and laughed. I suppose that is true. My wife has another name for it though. She refers to it as, procrastination. He said.

There’s certainly nothing wrong with that, as long as it gets done eventually and your car keeps running on the freeway. Jerry said.

Right. Drew said as he sat down in a chair near the door. Jerry disappeared and Drew began leafing through a pile of magazines that were scattered on a small table nearby. He began reading an article on the new line of sport cars. Soon Jerry entered and announced the car was finished.

Drew handed him a credit card. Jerry swiped the card and asked, Where are you off to?

Drew smiled and said. I doubt if you’ve ever heard of it. It’s a small one stop town called Negley, Ohio.

Jerry handed Drew his card back and asked, Do you have relatives there? No. Drew began, "It’s not a social call. I’m being transferred there.

It appears they haven’t a Postmaster to fill the void. I have the least seniority here, so; you know how that goes."

Jerry shook his head. We are sure going to miss your business, Drew. You’ve been coming in here for a long time. We like to keep our regulars happy. Those big chain stations eat up almost all the business around here these days. He said.

Drew smiled and replied, I’m sorry Jerry. I can see that happening everywhere. A little place like this has to rely on things those bigger stations don’t cater to. I know I’m going to miss your ugly face. He smiled across at his friend who was laughing.

Well, Jerry began as he extended his hand to Drew. You take care and if you are ever back this way, you look up your old friend Jerry.

I will do that old friend. Drew said shaking hands with Jerry. You take care of yourself and don’t let those big boys push you around. He smiled one last time before driving back through the side streets to his home. Sharla would be home in twenty minutes. She would stop at the school house to pick up Damon first.

Drew was sitting on the front porch when Thomas came up the street with two of his friends. He noticed Drew and ran to meet him. Dad, what are you doing home this early? Thomas asked.

Drew smiled. I thought I would surprise everyone and take you all out to dinner. He said. Wow, I better get my homework done. Thomas said running inside. Drew continued to watch the children filtering past the house. He was looking for Elissa. She was usually among the last few. Sometimes she arrived home before Sharla and Damon, but not always.

Drew was staring at a group of girls crossing the corner when he noticed Sharla’s Subaru Legacy turn the corner. He watched as she pulled into the drive. The garage door went up and she pulled inside. He was just going down the porch steps when Damon came running from the garage to greet him. Daddy, you’re home. He shouted as he ran into Drew’s open arms.

Drew lifted his son into the air. Yes, you’re home. He heard from behind them. Sharla was approaching them. Why are you home? She asked as she neared them. Are you alright?

Drew put Damon down. He looked over at his wife and opened his arms. How about a proper greeting first? He asked.

Sharla stepped closer, I’m not sure I like the sounds of that. She said as she embraced him. He kissed her on the cheek. I got transferred again. He said softly.

Sharla rolled her eyes. Oh no; I hope it isn’t too far. She said.

Drew shook his head, I’m afraid it is, Honey. It’s going to require relocating. He said watching her for a reaction.

Relocating to where, exactly? Sharla asked.

We’re moving! Damon shouted as he ran inside.

We’re moving! Drew could hear his calling as he ran through the house. Before Drew could respond, Thomas was stepping out the front door.

Are we moving? He asked.

Drew took a deep breath. Why don’t we have this conversation inside where the neighbors can’t hear? He held the door for Sharla.

Where are we moving to, Dad? Thomas asked.

Drew cleared his throat. I was planning on making the announcement over dinner, but now that the cat’s out of the bag; I suppose I might as well come right out with it. I’m leaving in the morning for a small town in Ohio called, Negley. He waited for their reaction.

Just then Elissa came in the kitchen door. We are moving away. Damon shouted to his sister.

What? Where? What’s he talking about Mom? Elissa asked.

Just wait a minute. Drew said throwing his hands in the air. Let me explain. Why don’t we all go in the living room and sit down.

Elissa dropped her book bag and marched to the sofa. She flopped down and crossed her arms as she glared at her father. Drew sat on the arm of the sofa. I just found out this morning. Apparently I’ve been transferred to a small community north east of here. He began.

Before he could take a breath, Elissa asked. How small? Are we going to be farmers? She threw her head back against the sofa and put her feet on the coffee table.

Take your feet off the coffee table, Elissa. Sharla said. She looked over at Drew and asked. How small?

Drew smiled. I am not sure. It looks pretty small on the map. I’ve never been there before, so I really don’t know. He explained.

I’ll get the map. Thomas said running toward the kitchen. He reappeared carrying a folded road map. He spread it out on the coffee table and everyone leaned forward while Drew pointed to the spot with the small print. Wow, we are going to be farmers. Thomas said barely above a whisper.

We aren’t going to be farmers, Tommy. Elissa said. Tell him Mom. Tell him we aren’t going to be farmers. She stood up.

Sharla took a deep breath. She looked over at Drew. He shrugged his shoulders. I have no say in any of this. They have an opening and I was chosen to fill it. You all know how it works. Drew explained.

We never had to move before Dad. Elissa said crying.

I’m sorry Elissa. Drew said. You know there isn’t anything I can do about it.

You could find another job. You don’t have to work at the post office. She sobbed.

And do what, Elissa? Maybe I could be the janitor at your school. Would you like that? Drew asked.

Elissa stomped her foot and Sharla raised her index finger in the air. Enough! She said glaring at Elissa. You are not the only one being affected by this.

Can’t we stay here? I mean why can’t Daddy go there and come home on the weekends? Elissa asked.

This family stays together. Sharla said.

Drew hung his head. I am sorry. He said softly.

I have to drive up there tomorrow and look for a place for us to live. I thought I would take us all to dinner tonight.

I’m not hungry. Elissa said. I’m going to my room.

No you aren’t. Sharla said. You are going to dinner with the rest of us.

Elissa stomped as she passed Drew. She went to her room and slammed the door shut behind her. We’re going to live on a farm. Thomas sang as he hurried toward the room he shared with Damon.

Sharla sighed. Well, I’ll give my notice tomorrow. She smoothed her skirt as she sat on the sofa.

Look at it this way; Drew began, You won’t have to make those awful phone calls begging for money anymore.

Sharla forced a smile. I suppose I could find something after we get settled.

Drew smiled. I don’t know; I kind of like the vision of you wearing an apron while hanging clothes on the line.

She narrowed her eyes. How small is this place? Drew laughed. I don’t know. He said.

Well, Sharla began. Let’s get ready for dinner. Are you all packed?

I am. Drew said. I had the oil changed in the car earlier. I’m all ready to go.

Sharla nodded. All righty then; what are you hungry for?

Drew shrugged. I’m not very hungry. Why don’t we go out for pizza? Then you can bring the left overs home in case Elissa decides to sulk through dinner.

I’ll have none of that. Sharla said. I’ll go have a talk with her.

Drew smiled. I’ll read the paper while you get ready. He said.

Sharla left the living room. Damon crawled up on the sofa next to Drew. He sat smiling up at his father. What is it? Drew asked.

Damon shrugged. I’m going to miss you Daddy.

I’m going to miss you too, Damon. Drew said kissing his youngest son on top of the head. I’m going to miss you very much.

Dinner was not a very pleasant experience. Elissa pouted even after a thorough scolding from her mother. Thomas didn’t help matters any by his constant referral to living on a farm. Damon was quietly listening to every detail of their conversation, which made Drew wonder what he was thinking.

Drew and Sharla found comfort in each other’s arms that night after the children were put down to bed. Neither of them slept well, and Drew found the chaos at the morning table to be quite nerve racking. He was every bit as reluctant to leave as Sharla was to send him off. Finally after everyone had left for the day, he found himself drinking his second cup of coffee alone in the empty house. He sighed heavily as he placed his cup in the sink and went to the garage. He put his bags in the back of his Subaru and backed out of the garage. He sat there looking at the home he had shared with his family before he finally backed out into the street and drove toward the freeway.

Drew had put the address into his GPS. The female voice spoke softly as it gave him commands. The traffic was busy as usual for this time of day. Drew rolled his neck as he fought off the stress of the commute. After a couple of hours he was far enough away from the city to relax slightly. He noticed a fast food restaurant and made his way through the drive through. He ordered a coffee and was again on the highway driving toward his new home. Soon he found himself on a narrower road that wound around sharp curves and hills. He looked on each side of the road as he continued to follow the commands of the female voice that spoke to him from his GPS. He was now taking the ramp onto State Route seventy-seven, north. The GPS said he would be in Negley in another two hours. He felt the urge for a pit stop. He spotted a truck stop and pulled in for a break. After using the bathroom, he ordered another cup of coffee for the road and was once again following the GPS commands.

Soon he was passing through Amish country. He felt his hands sweating on the steering wheel. He hoped Elissa would sleep during this part of the journey when Sharla brought them out. He ate lunch in New Philadelphia at a Perkins Restaurant.

Drew was driving through Lisbon, Ohio when Sharla called him. He pulled over at a vacant gas station to take the call.

Where are you? Sharla asked.

I’m in Lisbon. It is the county seat for Columbiana County. Drew said.

"Negley is in Columbiana County, right?’ Sharla asked.

Yes it is. Drew said looking around.

Then you must be getting close. How does it look? Sharla asked.

Well, it kind of looks like farm country. Drew said chuckling.

Oh Lord. Elissa is never going to forgive us. Sharla said.

I’m sorry Honey. You know I wouldn’t be here if I had a choice. Drew replied.

I know, Drew. Sharla said. She will get over it. I think she doesn’t want to leave her friends and school. I suppose it is a little frightening to be the new kid. Thomas seems to be excited.

Drew said, Well he never did seem to like it in town. He’s always wanted a dog. It’s beginning to look like he might end up getting his wish.

Well, I better let you get back on the road. You be careful out there. Remember not to trust those little ones. Remember Children Of The Corn. Sharla teased.

I remember. I love you Honey. I’ll call your cell and leave a message as soon as I arrive. Drew said. I love you Drew. Sharla said.

I love you too Honey. Remember to lock up tonight. Drew said. Bye now.

Good bye, Drew. Sharla said before ending the call.

Drew pulled back out onto the highway and once again followed the GPS commands. He turned left at a stop light and drove up a steep hill to another traffic light. Then he turned right and went down a steep grade. Soon he was traveling up and down steep grades and making sharp turns. Everything was so green. He noticed a car way off ahead of him. It seemed they were the only two cars on the road. How different from what he was used to.

He was sitting at a red light in Rogers, Ohio. He was almost there. He was feeling like he needed another pit stop. Finally he found himself passing the sign that read NEGLEY. He was here. He came to a stop sign. There was a little market on his right called Gorby’s. He drove onward until he had reached Commerce Street and his destination. He parked his car in the small parking lot. He climbed out and stretched.

Drew stood looking at the small building in which he would be working out of. It wasn’t as big as the corridor of the city post office in Columbus. To his left was another small parking lot which contained a tractor-trailer and a dark four wheel drive pickup truck. Between the post office and the main highway was a two story antique shop, which was at one time, a house. Behind him was a large two story building that appeared to be some kind of thrift store. It was totally engulfed in items of one kind or another. The sign read THE COMPANY STORE. Directly across from the post office was a house with a closed in front porch.

An elderly man was coming out of the post office. Good day there young fellow. The old timer said.

Hello. Drew said. Are you from this area? He asked.

Yes Sir. Mark Hellman’s the name. The old man said tipping his ball cap. He leaned against the side of the building and Drew instantly felt guilty for detaining the older gentleman.

You ain’t from these parts are you? He asked Drew.

Drew smiled, No I am not. He looked around and said, It looks like a quiet community.

It’s quiet enough. Where do you hail from young feller? Mark asked.

I’m from Columbus. I’m going to be the new Postmaster here in Negley. Drew explained.

Oh well then; welcome to Negley. Mark said.

Drew extended his hand. Forgive me Sir. My name is Drew Carrington.

The older man shook hands with Drew. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Drew Carrington. I live right across the street here in a grey two story house. It’s just me and Louise. We had a son, Raymond, but we lost him in Vietnam. It’s just the two of us now. Mark said. Before Drew could speak, the older gentleman went on, I fought the Germans in WWII. I took a bullet in the hip here. He said pointing to his hip. I don’t get around very good. I don’t go much either. I meet some of my friends at McDonalds for coffee in the mornings up in East Palestine. You know where East Palestine is?

Drew shook his head. I’m afraid I don’t. He said.

It’s right up that way. Just follow State Route 170 and you’ll run right into it. Mark said.

Is there a motel in East Palestine? Drew asked.

Awe no, no motel. You need a place to stay, do you? Mark asked.

Well, I will until I find a place to live. I have to move my family here. I’m going to need a house. Drew said.

You know what, young feller? You stop over at the house after you finish up inside. Mark said.

Drew nodded his head, Okay, I can do that. He paused before saying, Well you better get out of this sun, Mark. I’ll stop over as soon as I get settled in here.

Mark Hellman nodded his head and smiled. He took a moment to steady himself and then proceeded to walk past the Antique Mall and toward the main road. Drew stepped inside the post office and watched the old man go around the building and out of sight. He walked in a bent over fashion as he went. Drew could not see the Hellman house from the post office parking lot.

Drew stepped through the corridor where the post office boxes lined the wall. The area on the customer side of the counter was no bigger than a bathroom. A short, stout woman with graying red hair stepped forward and smiled. What can I do for you? She asked.

Drew smiled. I’m Drew Carrington. He announced.

Oh yes, Mr. Carrington. I’ve been expecting you. The short woman said. Come on back. You have to enter through that side door out in the corridor. I’ll go unlock it and let you in. She announced.

Drew went back out into the corridor and to the side door. The short woman unlocked the door and held it open for him. My name is Edith May. She said as he passed.

It’s a pleasure, Ms. May. Drew said.

Oh, you can call me Edith; everybody else does. In fact you will find that everybody around here uses their first names. It may take you a while to get to know them, but you’ll catch on soon enough, I reckon. Edith said.

I just had a nice chat with Mark Hellman. Drew said.

Yes, Mark lives right across the street. He’s been living in these parts all his life. I doubt he ever left except when he was in the army. He fought in WWII you know. Edith said leading the way back to the other side of the counter. He and Louise had one son and they lost him in that war over in Vietnam.

That’s too bad. Drew said.

Yes it is. I can’t imagine losing one of my kids. Edith said. Me, I have three girls. They are all married and moved away. Two don’t live too far off, but my youngest lives in West Virginia. She ain’t married anymore. They got a divorce and she lives with a man. I don’t approve, you mind, but what can I do about it? Edith explained looking over her shoulder at Drew.

Drew nodded and smiled. Edith was a talker. He watched her until she said, Where are my manners? Sit down. Sit down right over there.

Drew asked, How long have you been working here, Edith.

She smiled and said, I’ve been here for twenty years, off and on. I retired two years ago, but I can’t seem to stay away from this place. She laughed and went on. Of course when Farley died, he was the postmaster, they found themselves in a bit of a jam, so I offered to come back until they send someone to take over. I never was fond of working six days a week. I was beginning to think they wouldn’t replace old Farley. I hate this six days a week schedule, they have me on. I have been coming in to cover for the postmaster’s vacation and absent days and emergencies. That’s about all I can handle at my age anyway. It’s a good thing this isn’t a big post office. Things are kind of slow here, and that suits me just fine.

Drew felt like he was getting Edith’s life story. He continued to listen with a smile. Finally she paused and he jumped at the chance to get a word in. Well Edith, just what is it you do when you’re covering for the Postmaster?

I sort mail. In my younger days, I was a carrier. I can’t handle the hours now. Of course I work a few extra hours around Christmas time. But that is about all I do now. I never applied for the postmaster position. How I got singled out for the job, I’ll never know. I don’t want to know either. I’m sure glad you happened along when you did. I can get out of here in time to milk my goats. We have a farm out near the railroad tracks on the right. It ain’t a big farm, but it keeps my husband and I busy enough. Tom and I have down sized in our old age, but we kept a few goats and a milk cow. They keep the grass ate down in the field. Edith explained.

Drew smiled. My middle child is named Thomas. He said.

Edith smiled. Did they come with you? She asked.

No they didn’t. I didn’t have much notice and I have to find a place for them to live. Drew said.

Oh that shouldn’t be too hard. With the economy, there are lots of places in these parts. Of course it’s all in what you are looking for. Edith said. Well Drew, I’m going home. I need to milk my goats. It was nice to meet you. I’ll post my number near the phone; just in case you have any questions. Edith said lifting her purse from under the desk.

What, you’re leaving? Drew asked.

Yes, you know your way around a post office I take it. You are a postmaster aren’t you? She asked. She picked up a pen and wrote on a post it pad. Here you are. She said pointing to the number.

Yes, I just thought you would be here the rest of the day. Drew said.

Nope; nope, I ain’t going to be here anymore than I have to. I wrote my phone number on a post-it right there. She said pointing at the desk again. You can call if you have any questions. Not many of us carry those cell phones with us. There’s no point in it. There are very limited companies that offer service in Negley anyhow. I’m outta here for the day. Sayonara. She said with a wave. Then she went out the back door into the sunshine.

Drew took a deep breath as he looked around. There were boxes stacked along the wall. He briefly glanced into them. Then he found bags of unsorted mail. He assumed Edith spent most of her days visiting with the customers. He could picture her leaning on the counter talking for hours. He began to sort the mail. A bell rang over the door announcing someone had entered the lobby. He went to the desk. It was a little boy around Thomas’ age.

What can I do for you? Drew asked.

The boy looked surprised. Where is Edith? He asked.

Edith went home. My name is Mr. Carrington. Drew remembered that Edith told him everyone used their first names. He said, I’m Drew. I’m the new Postmaster. What is your name?

They boy smiled a toothless smile. I’m George. I need a stamp on this letter. George said.

I think I can help you with that. Drew said. He placed the letter on the scale and put a stamp on it. He waited as the boy counted out the exact change for the stamp.

Thanks’ Mister. The boy called as he pushed on the heavy door.

Thank you, George. Drew said as he watched him leave. Drew sighed. He took his cell phone from his pocket and proceeded to speed dialed Sharla. A no service notice came up on the screen. Drew remembered that Edith had told him there was limited cell service in Negley. He sighed and hung up. Oh, I forgot to tell her I loved her. Drew thought to himself. Then he went back to sorting mail. He could only imagine the tantrum Elissa would throw when she learned there was no cell service in the area.

It was five o’clock. Drew locked everything up and went out the front door where he had left his car parked. He backed out of the parking lot and pulled up to the stop sign. He looked across the street to where Mark Hellman sat on his front porch. Drew assumed he was waiting for him to stop over, as he had said he would. Drew waved at the elderly man and drove across the street, parking in the Hellman’s drive way. Drew climbed the front steps to where Mark sat smiling at him as he approached.

Louise. Mark called into the screen door. Have a seat, young man.

Drew sat down on a plastic lawn chair. The screen door opened and an elderly woman handed Drew a glass of iced tea. I hope you like sugar in your tea. She said.

Drew smiled. Oh that is very thoughtful of you Mam. I do like sugar in my tea. Thank you very much. He sipped from the glass. My name is Drew Carrington. He said.

I’m Louise, Drew. Welcome to Negley. She said. Mark tells me you don’t have a place to stay yet.

Drew nodded. That is correct, Mam.

Please call me Louise. Everyone around here uses their first names. She said smiling.

Drew, Mark began, The nearest motel is in Columbiana. It’s a nice one, but it’ll be pretty costly staying there every night. Louise and I were talking and we have four bedrooms and we ain’t using three of them. We wouldn’t mind renting out one of them rooms to you until you get settled somewhere of your own.

Drew raised his eyebrows. That’s very neighborly of you. He said.

Look how close you are to work. Louise said.

You’re not being from around here and all; you don’t have to worry about getting lost.

Mark laughed. He ain’t likely to get lost in Negley, Louise. He said.

You know what I mean. Louise said slapping her husband on the shoulder lightly. He doesn’t know his way around here.

Drew smiled. That is a very kind offer you’ve made me. I think I might take you up on it for a couple of days at least. He said. Of course I hope you don’t make a habit of opening your home to complete strangers.

Mark laughed. I suppose you have a point there; you being from the big city and all. I know from what I read in the papers that it ain’t necessarily safe in them big cities. Here we don’t worry much about that sort of thing. The bad guys don’t stop in Negley. They are usually in a hurry to get to the Pennsylvania line and don’t stop in a one stop town such as this one. Of course we’ve had our share of crime. Nothing real bad; just some cars broken into for change and we did have a farm way over the hill that grew Marijuana. Every now and again the helicopters fly real low over the area. Of course we do have the nudist camp down yonder, but that’s been a well-kept secret for years.

Drew coughed. A nudist camp you say? He asked.

Yes. I hear it’s a pretty big deal. Of course I wouldn’t know anything about that. You can’t even see the place for all the fencing and foliage. It’s pretty well hidden. You could drive right past it and never even know it was there. Mark said with a smile.

Drew smiled back at the older man. Well, I never would have guessed. He managed to say.

I’m right in the middle of preparing dinner. I have a roast in the oven. Do you eat meat? Louise asked.

Yes I do. Drew said.

Good. Louise replied. I’ve heard of all kinds of funny diets these big city folk are on. I hear it on the Doctor Oz Show.

Drew smiled. I have three children. They would die without their burgers and fries. He said.

Louise raised her eyebrows. That’s not good for growing children, Drew. I hope you don’t let them eat junk food very often.

Drew shook his head and said, Oh no Mam; my wife is very health conscious. It’s just that kids will be kids.

I understand. Louise said. She rose to her feet and said, Well, I’m going inside to put dinner on the table. Why don’t you bring your bags into the house? Mark here can show you up to your room.

Thank you very much Louise. Drew said. She smiled and went inside. Drew rose to his feet. He looked at the small one car garage next to the house. Will I be blocking your car in? He asked.

Mark Hellman nodded. Just pull it over on the side so I can get out of the garage. I usually drive up to East Palestine every morning to drink coffee with some old timers. He laughed. We solve all the problems in the world every morning.

Drew smiled and nodded his head. I see. He said. He stood to his feet and said, I’ll be right back. He went down the porch steps to his car. He found that in the time it took him to walk to his car; not one car had passed by. He lifted his suitcase from the trunk and carried it up the porch steps. Mark was waiting at the door for him. You don’t get much traffic on this road, do you? Drew asked as he stepped through the front door into the front room of the house.

No we don’t. It’s kind of busy around here this time of day. Mark said as he winked back at Drew. They both laughed.

Mark went up the stairway that was just inside the front door. Drew followed. Mark seemed to labor as he climbed the stairs. They arrived at the top. This here is Louise’s room. Mark said pointing to the room on the right. He looked back at Drew and said, I snore. He pointed to the room on the left. This is my room. He walked to the next room on the left. This will be your room and the bathroom is right at the end of the hall.

Drew stepped into the room that would be his bedroom. This is very nice. He said. The room was furnished with antique furniture. Everything had lace doilies covering it. The double Jenny Lynn bed was covered with a white chenille bed spread. There was one window in the bedroom. It had white Priscilla curtains covering the window, which blew slightly as the register was right beneath the window. The air conditioner must have been attached to the furnace.

I’ll let you get settled in. Mark said.

Drew looked back at the older gentleman and asked, How much do you want for the room?

Mark laughed. It ain’t for sale, son. He laughed again and asked, How much do you want to pay?

Mark smiled at the old man’s humor. Well, I’ve never rented a room before, but I was prepared to pay for a motel. I suppose I could afford fifty a night. He said.

Fifty a night? Mark asked raising his long gray eyebrows. Why we wouldn’t dream of charging that much a night. How about fifty a week?

Drew’s mouth fell open. Mr. Hellman, I know this is a small town and all; but that is way too cheap. How about I pay one hundred a week with meals? Drew asked.

Mark Hellman shook his head and waved his hand in the air. You can afford that? He asked. I think so. Drew said.

Let me talk to Louise. We’ll discuss it at dinner. You get settled in for now. Mark said. Then he turned and walked out of the room.

Drew unpacked his bag and put his clothes away. He was looking out the window when Louise called from the bottom of the stairs announcing dinner was ready.

They ate in the kitchen. It had yellow tile above the counter, which was white. The stove and refrigerator were a harvest gold color and were older models. Everything was clean and neat despite being out dated. The kitchen table and chairs had chrome legs. The chairs were covered with a yellow plastic and the table top was also yellow. The kitchen floor was black and white tile. Drew felt as though he had passed through some time warp to the late fifties or early sixties.

The meal was something like his mother would have prepared for Sunday guests. The roast nearly melted in his mouth. The mashed potatoes were smooth and the gravy was of perfect consistency. The corn tasted like it was cut right off the cob. Drew closed his eyes and smiled. This is very good, Louise. I can’t tell you when I’ve had a meal this good last. He said.

Louise flushed. Oh Drew, I’m sure your wife is an excellent cook. She said.

She is. Drew said, But not this good. You won’t tell her I said that will you?

Louise laughed. I won’t say a word. I can’t wait to meet your family.

Drew went back to eating his meal. After a moment he said, I’ll be going home on Saturday and coming back Sunday evening. That is, just until I find a place for my family to live and we close out the house in Columbus.

Drew wants to pay us a hundred dollars a week for his room. Mark said.

So you said. Louise said. We could not accept that much money, Drew. She said looking across the table at Drew.

How much do you need? Drew asked.

We talked about renting one of our rooms out before you arrived and agreed upon fifty a week. Louise said.

That’s not very much money. Especially, since you are including meals. Drew protested.

Fifty a week. Louise said nodding her head. Take it or leave it.

Drew looked at the two of them as they sat smiling over at him. I’ll take it, but you are cheating yourselves. He said.

We have to eat anyway. The room is just sitting up there empty. We don’t need much at our age. Mark said. Besides, you are going to need the money for a house when your family arrives.

Well, I thank you very much. You are very generous. My family and I appreciate your kindness very much. Drew said.

Louise stood up. Would you like some ginger bread and whip cream? She asked.

Drew laughed. I would like that very much, thank you. He said.

After dinner, Drew went up to his room to call Sharla. He found if he stood in the corner of his room, near the window, he was able to get two bars on his cell phone. Sharla answered right away. He told her the events of the day. She was curious about the area they would be moving to. He explained that Elissa was going to hate it here. They were concerned about the children’s adjusting to these new surroundings. Sharla teased about Thomas being right when it came to them being farmers. Drew promised to call again tomorrow. They hung up and he went down to sit on the porch with Mark and Louise.

The evening was warm. Children rode their bikes past the house. Drew noticed the boy he had met earlier in the day at the post office. His name was George. He waved at Drew.

A few cars passed by. Most of the traffic was pickup trucks. Some of them were jacked up high with extra-large tires. One even had a confederate flag in the back window. Drew looked over at the Hellman’s. They didn’t seem to notice anything strange about the truck. That’s Billy Daily. Mark said nodding at the passing truck. Drew smiled but said nothing. Apparently I’m not in Kansas anymore. He thought to himself.

The mosquitoes began to bite and they went inside. Mark turned on the television and they watched an old Bonanza show. Mark explained that they did not have cable television and only got local channels which carried mostly the older programs. Drew smiled and said, This is fine. He wondered what Elissa would say about this.

Louise had been crocheting what looked like another doily much like the ones that covered the furniture throughout the house. Drew watched her as she worked diligently on the doily. With every twist of the thread, her foot moved, as if she were listening to some unheard tune in her head. He smiled. She must of sensed his watching her, for she said, I do this to keep my hands busy. I don’t like to watch much television. I believe that is the problem with most of this world. Folks spend too much time in front of the television and computer if you ask me. She said. She put the crocheting down and announced, Its nine o’clock Mark.

Mark handed Drew the television remote. We turn in every night at nine. He announced as he pulled himself to his feet.

That is fine with me. Drew said as he turned the television off. I usually go to bed about that time myself. He lied.

He waited as Mark turned the lights out. We leave the light on over the sink all night. He said. We also have a night light in the hall upstairs so you can find your way to the bathroom in the night if you need to.

Mark nodded. He followed the older couple up the stairs and said good night as they parted to go to their separate rooms. Drew undressed and called Sharla. The house phone was busy so he called her on her cell phone. She was fighting with Elissa, who didn’t want to get off the phone and go to bed.

How is it there? Sharla asked him.

It’s nice, actually. Dinner was like a Sunday feast. Tomorrow I will start inquiring about homes in the area. Drew said.

Oh Drew, I really miss you. Isn’t there someone you could call or something? There has to be some way to stay here. I mean, think about it; that being such a small town and all. Surely they need you more in a big city like Columbus. Sharla said.

You would think so, wouldn’t you? Drew responded. I don’t know who I would call, Sharla. I believe we all have to take our turns at being on the bottom. I don’t have enough years in to dictate where they place me.

Sharla sighed heavily into the phone. I suppose I could find a position in a doctor’s office somewhere around that area. I know the kids are going to hate it there. Well, maybe not Thomas, but I dread the next couple of months. It’s going to be a constant argument. She said.

I’m sorry, Honey. I don’t know what to do. I will try to find something in a town. Mr. Hellman says East Palestine is just up the road. It has a McDonalds so it has to be moderately populated. Drew said.

Oh Honey, I have to go. Elissa is still on the phone and Damon can’t find the top to his pajamas. Will you call me tomorrow after work? Sharla asked.

I will, Honey. I love you. Kiss the kids goodnight for me. Bye. Drew said. He plugged his phone charger into one of the only two outlets in his room. Then he went to bed. He slept soundly.

The next morning, Drew went down to find Louise had made bacon and scrambled eggs for breakfast. Mark ate hurriedly and announced he was going to McDonalds to meet his friends.

Drew drank his second cup of coffee and placed his dishes in the sink. There was no dishwasher here. Louise chased him out of the kitchen so she could clean up. Drew went up to his room to get dressed for his first full day at the post office. As he came down the stairs, Louise handed him a brown paper lunch bag. I packed you a lunch. She announced with a smile.

Thank you, Louise. You really didn’t have to go to all that trouble. Drew said smiling.

Well Drew, you are not going to find any carry out deliveries here in Negley. Louise said. She nodded her head and