Feigned Allegiance: The Chillings Series, #4

By Levon Sparks Salone

Rocking chairs. Nursing homes. Unfulfilled dreams. Not for the glamorous and sassy Miriam Denise Dubose, a senior citizen from Curry who believes in living life on the edge. When she heard that her former high school sweetheart, Harry Kingston Strickland, inherited a fortune, it was once again time for her to throw caution to the wind and implement a strategic, crafty plan. She hadn't seen him in decades, not since she broke his heart and left him behind at the train station in their small hometown, but that wasn't enough to deter her from trying to weasel her way back into his life—and heart —to become the wealthy Mrs. Harry Kingston Strickland.

Her plan would have succeeded without a hitch, if it weren't for one minor detail. Harry has his sights set on Sara Perkins, one of the widows who attends his church; however, just as his new relationship is flourishing, Miriam reappears on the scene, pledging her love and loyalty to him.

Will Harry's past love for Miriam be reignited and snuff out his new, budding relationship, or will the painful memories of the past be too difficult to overcome? Will Sara Perkins sit on the sidelines as an impartial bystander, or will she use her faithful weapons to achieve victory?Which woman will Harry choose? At what cost?

Walk with these characters, as they, and others, gallop through unexpected twists and turns, mull over broken promises and deceits, and wrestle with self-doubts and self-discoveries.

Laugh with them. Cry with them. Feel what they feel. Enter their world and live through their eyes in the pages of Feigned Allegiance. And if you're touched by their lives, you too may be encouraged to take risks, throw off the shackles, and live life to the fullest—regardless of your age.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Levon Sparks Salone
• Release date: Jun 7, 2019
• ISBN: 9798201819590

Levon Sparks Salone

Mrs. Levon Sparks Salone served as a Clinical Counselor where she specialized in the areas of chemical dependency, women's issues and family dynamics. During her career, she conducted trainings, workshops and motivational speeches for various agencies, companies and groups across the US. She left her 20-year tenure as a counselor to hone her skills in writing.

Book preview

Feigned Allegiance

By Levon Sparks Salone

Kindle Edition 2019

Copyright©2019 Levon Sparks Salone

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All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner without written permission of the author/publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews.

This book is a work of fiction. All characters in this book have no existence outside the imagination of the author and are not related to anyone bearing the same name or names. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or locations is purely coincidental.

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Other Books by Levon Sparks Salone

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Fiction:

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Waltzing With Deception (The Chillings Series, Book 1)

Unjust Ruling (The Chillings Series, Book 2)

When Truth Speaks (The Chillings Series, Book 3)

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Non-Fiction:

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Men Hurt Too!

Writing Prompts For Creative Writers

150 Plus 1 Acts Of Kindness

Before We Say I Do: The Premarital Workbook

30-Point Plan To Winning Your Employees' Loyalty And Respect

Life’s Motivational Moments, Volume 1

Life’s Motivational Moments, Volume 2

Life’s Motivational Moments, Volume 3

Life’s Motivational Moments, Volume 4

Life’s Motivational Moments, Volume 5

Help...My Finances Are Out Of Control!

Nuggets Of Faith

As For Me And My House, We Shall Serve The Lord

Table of Contents

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

Discussion

The Plan

She hadn't seen Harry in years, but loneliness has a way of stirring up old, familiar feelings like an angry, fierce wind stirs up fallen autumn leaves. She should have married him when she had the chance, but he was broke back in the good old days, and she couldn't foresee a broke man in her future. Yes, Miriam Denise Dubose missed her chance with her old lover, but no one would blame her if she threw the dice and gave love another chance. Had she known a deceased relative would have left Harry Kingston Strickland a fortune, she would have scooped him up years ago. But life has a way of deceiving the young, and in the past, her youthful naiveté and ravenous curiosity bade her to leave her safe haven and steady boyfriend to explore city life and sow her wild oats.

I haven't spoken to him in years, she mumbled to herself. The last I heard, he didn't have any children, no one to leave that dusty money to. His wife died years ago, and knowing my Harry, he's too picky to have one steady woman. I bet he's still serving the Lord, and saving his pennies, now dollars, for a rainy day. Miriam looked at the glistening sun that nestled in the sky. It seemed to wink at her thoughts, encouraging her to continue. She blinked at the sun's radiant glare as if receiving motivation from its warmth. The sun may be shining, she allowed one corner of her lip to slide upward, but I'll stir up a sweeping turbulence, something to get Harry's money churning my way. Besides, every man needs a woman by his side in his old age. And what good is Harry's money if he doesn't have someone special to pry it out of his hands and spend it for him?

Miriam looked around her meager one bedroom abode. In the past, it served its purpose, but now it felt claustrophobic. She scanned the old pieces of furniture, pieces that withstood the test of time. They saw her through the good and bad times, unlike the men who waltzed in and out of her life. She touched the old desk that had been with her the longest. Time had heaped age upon it, but it maintained a polished integrity. It's time that I taste of the riches in life, she reasoned as she rubbed her fingers across the aged piece. I've worked all my life, got by on pennies and never met a man who suited my taste. Yes, I made a mistake. I allowed a good one to get away. She sat at the desk and opened one of the side drawers. I may have played the fool once, but I refuse to make the same mistake twice. She rustled through a stack of papers, pulled out her little black book and retrieved Harry's address, the address she found listed on the internet. I have the perfect card for this special occasion. Miriam wrote a brief note inside the card, sealed the envelope, and placed the print of her lips on the outside. This ought to do it, she smiled as she took the bait to the mailbox. I'll wait to see how he responds.

He may be seriously dating someone. Her conscience offered a warning.

So what? she defended. I know my Harry, and if he's not married, he's fair game.

She walked back into the house and slammed the door, upset that her conscience suggested possible defeat. Time to put your game face on Miriam, she swirled in front of the floor length mirror, bypassing the cautionary warning. And Mr. Strickland, I hope you're prepared because your Miriam is coming back on the scene, and she's bringing her 'big girl' game with her.

Chapter 1

Mother Moses paced the floor waiting for Mother Perkins and Brother Strickland to return from their date. She told her friends she wouldn't wait up for them, but she watched the clock as closely as a mother bird watched baby hatchlings. When she saw the headlights flash through the living room window, she scurried to the kitchen and sat at the table. Impatiently, she waited until Mother Perkins closed and locked the door before reentering the living room. She promised herself that she would act reserved, but when she saw the wide smile on Mother Perkins' face, she violated her promises.

How was your date? Mother Moses squealed a pitch comparable to a piercing, high note of an opera singer, I want to hear every detail.

Mother Perkins, clad in a flowing navy blue floral dress and matching two-inched navy blue heels, was eager to tell her friend about her date with Brother Strickland, one of the eligible widowers who sang on the choir at Zion Tabernacle of Love, but she taunted her friend by taking short, deliberate steps, moving slower than a turtle that had no place to go.

Ma, will you hurry and put your things away? We aren't getting any younger. I want to hear what happened before the Lord returns if that's okay with you.

Mother Perkins plopped down on the soft, three-seater sofa. She moved over, leaving space for Mother Moses to sit beside her. She giggled like a schoolgirl, placed her hand over her mouth then turned towards her restless friend, the loyal woman who stood by her side and handled her affairs when her husband died.

Well? Mother Moses asked, hoping to speed up the process.

The date was wonderful, Mother Perkins whispered. I had a good time. Brother Strickland, I mean Harry, reminded me of my dear Mitchell.

Mother Moses inhaled a gulp of air then held her hand over her heart. You must have had a good time Ma. I never thought you would ever meet anyone who is in the same league as your deceased husband.

I know this may sound strange, but I felt as if we've been going out for years even though it was officially our first date.

Do you plan to go out with him again? Mother Moses rubbed her hands together in anticipation.

He wants to take me to brunch after church on Sunday. He said it would take some time to get to the quaint Italian restaurant, but he suggested that we don't hurry back. In fact, he wants to make a day of it.

Ma, I am happy for you. Brother Strickland is a jewel, and so are you. It's time for you to move on with your life. Mitchell has been dead for years.

Mother Perkins hugged Mother Moses. I think you may be right. I feel very comfortable with Harry.

He's a good man Ma.

I know he is. And you are a good friend. Thank you for being there for me throughout the years. That means the world to me.

I would not have it any other way.

After they discussed the details of Mother Perkins' date, Mother Moses looked at her watch, the last gift her husband bought her before his death. Her mind wanted to bathe in those memories, but she forced her brain to think about Mother Perkins' happiness. Ma, she whispered as she smiled at her friend, I would love to stay and keep you company, but you know my driving skills are at best average after the sun goes down. And besides, it's getting late. I better go.

The smile that lit up Mother Perkins' face turned into an admonishing frown. No. It's too late for you to drive home.

But Ma—

Why don't you spend the night? Mother Perkins interrupted.We can chat, and I'll make a fresh pot of coffee.

Are you sure my staying won't inconvenience you?

You know I enjoy your company. I would love for you to stay.

Okay. That sounds like a plan. Do you have a spare robe?

Yes. Look in the guest bedroom. You'll find everything you need there.

Thanks Ma.

After the two women dressed for bed, they sat around the kitchen table drinking coffee and eating hot cinnamon buns. Like two teenagers who hadn't seen each other in years, they compared dating notes, talked about how things changed, laughed about their silly mistakes and thanked God for bringing them through the ups and downs of life.

Ma, it's been fun, Mother Moses said after scanning the large clock on the wall, but this old woman has to get some sleep. My spirit wants to continue, but my flesh is demanding rest.

Mother Perkins laughed. You're right. I guess we've shared enough. She patted her friend on the hand. Goodnight. I'll talk to you in the morning.

Mother Moses left Mother Perkins sitting at the table.

Finally, Mother Perkins smiled as she recalled the events of the evening, someone to fill that empty corner in my life.

She clarified her statement after she took a whiff of the roses Brother Strickland gave her. Lord, I don't mean You aren't enough. I'm just saying that it's nice to have someone special to spend time with.

She got up from the table and shuffled to her bedroom. Yes, I can see this relationship going somewhere, and thank goodness there's no one to interfere, she grinned as she turned off her bedroom light and hopped into bed.

*****

Brother Strickland knew he was fast approaching eighty, but after his date with Mother Perkins, he felt like a man half his age. That Sara is something else, he cooed as he rocked in his rocker. She makes me feel so alive.

He reviewed the short list of women he dated in the past. None of them made him feel like a queasy kid, not even his deceased wife Martha. Years ago he thought he found his soul mate, a woman named Miriam, but she broke his heart and left it in a million painful pieces. After that disappointment, he stayed away from women like a plague. He guarded his heart, and kept it under lock and key, making sure no one would ever take advantage of him again. Somehow, his wife found a way to creep into his life. She eased some of his pain, but after her death, he turned a blind eye to love.

He allowed his thoughts to return to Mother Perkins. I know we're in the winter of our years, he thought as he made his case, but I want to spend the rest of my life with Sara. She's a godly woman, prayer warrior, good listener and great cook. And she's easy on the eyes too. A man can't ask for much more than that.

Brother Strickland stopped rocking long enough to reach in his desk drawer. He pulled out a small, aged box. Mama told me to give this to the woman who captures my heart. She would be proud if you wore this Sara, he opened the box and rubbed the small piece of jewelry. All I have to do now is find the right time to give it to you.

*****

Miriam remembered their last intense discussion, the one that changed the course of her life. Harry wanted to go to the city with her, but she knew if she wanted a bigger and better future, she had to leave small town memories behind; and Harry was part of the past she wanted to stuff in the recesses of her mind. He looked so lost at the train station. I felt sorry for him, she recalled as she reexamined her past; but I was on a mission, and I couldn't let a small town boy with a questionable future interfere with my plans.

The conversation resonated in her mind like it was yesterday. Give us a chance Miriam, he begged. You'll see. I'll make it big one day.

I blew him a kiss and turned away from him so he wouldn't see the tears that clouded my eyes. I knew he believed he would live up to my expectations, but in my heart of hearts, Harry's dreams were too small for what I thought I deserved. I gave him a fleeting look, boarded the train and left Harrisburg and Harry Kingston Strickland behind. Even though I broke his heart, I refused to look back. When the train pulled away from that station, I knew my life would never be the same. Throughout the years, my old friends told me bits and pieces about Harry's life, but those shallow reports weren't enough to peak my interest. Nothing moved me until my daughter Priscilla gave me her account. One weekend, she was in Harrisburg visiting one of her cousins, and they ran into Harry. Her cousin introduced them, and she told him she was my daughter. She said he was very complimentary of me, but after he offered his niceties, he went on his way. Priscilla's cousin explained that 'Brother Strickland' was loaded. Loaded and alone. Now I can't think of a better combination. Miriam released a sinister chuckle. I'm not saying that I'm pursuing Harry for his money, but having money makes him more desirable. Miriam pulled out her old photo album and spoke to the picture that captured her youth. I bet we could have had a wonderful life together Harry. Me, a woman as refined as a sleek bottle of aged French wine, and you, the loyalist who hung on my every word. You weren't the finest man in the bunch, but you were honest and reliable. Back in the day that didn't excite me. I had to have class. I needed pizzazz. I guess that's why I met and married Lewis. Lewis Wesley Dubose. The finest man the city of Curry had to offer. The Charmer. The poster child for Mr. Debonair. He wined and dined me. He charmed and serenaded me, and before I knew what was happening, we were standing in front of the judge pledging our everlasting love and commitment to each other. I meant what I said at the time, but apparently he didn't because six months into the marriage he dispelled our covenant and vowed his love and commitment to someone else. I didn't contest the divorce, and I didn't despise my pregnancy. But I must admit, I missed the pocket change. I didn't cry over spilled milk. I'm a fighter, so I made do. After Priscilla was born, I had a few flings. Some good and some not so good, but no one captured my heart. I've grown up since those days. Now that I've matured, I want something meaningful. I want somebody reliable and stable, someone who can offer me the good things in life. Somebody like you Harry old boy.

Miriam flipped through the pages of the photo album and laughed. The two of us at the school dance. She rubbed the outline of the photo. Yes, time has a way of reminding us of our mistakes. But fortunately, I still have time to get it right. She closed the photo album and placed it back on the bookshelf. It's been nice living here, she smiled as she roamed around her small living quarters, but if I arrange my game pieces according to plan, I'll be in Harrisburg before the year is out. And I won't be living alone either. I'll be playing the loyal wife to Harry Kingston Strickland, and living comfortably in that spacious, secluded house that I know a man of his stature must have.

Chapter 2

Randy Jenkins, the son of Bessie Jenkins and the deceased Carl Jenkins, smiled at the early morning sky. He never thought in a million years he would ever move back to Chutney, much less smile while being there; but since his father's death and the emotional cleansing sessions he and his mother had, he felt as if he returned to a new place. For the first time in his life, he was able to talk to his mother about his father. It was a painful process, but he and his mother survived. Now he felt free to readjust to the place he called home. He had to admit, he was a country boy at heart, and waking up to the crowing of the rooster turned into an expectant treat. In the past, it infuriated him, but now things were different, and he started to look at Chutney through rose-colored glasses. After he hopped out of bed, he roamed to his bedroom window and opened it. He inhaled the fresh, country air. City life can't compare to the innocence of country living, he breathed as he enjoyed his surroundings. Too bad I couldn't enjoy this as a child, but it's never too late to reap the benefits of something you've once missed.

After lingering for a few minutes, Randy was about to walk away from the window when in the distance he saw a silhouette that snatched him into double take mode. Who—is—that? He strained to get a better look, but before he could see the female's specific features, she slipped back into the house. Hmm, Randy smiled and rubbed his head. I believe returning to Chutney may be a better idea than I originally thought. He stepped back behind the curtain and peeped out the window again. Come on, he whispered, let me get one more glimpse of you. He waited a few minutes, but the only moving thing that seemed to notice him was the neighbor's strutting rooster. The stately cock marched around the yard as if giving Randy notice that he was marking his territory, and if Randy wanted to remain in Chutney peacefully, he had to learn the town's routine and fall in line.

I'm back, Randy retorted at his would-be challenger, and there are going to be a few changes around here.

The rooster scratched the dirt, kicked up a claw full of it and strutted away.

I hope the town's folk are more welcoming than you are, he hollered at the arrogant animal.

But that was his initial warning. There were things stashed in Chutney that guaranteed that change would occur, but maybe not the changes Randy hoped to see.

*****

Bessie could not believe her good fortune. Since Randy's return to Chutney, she no longer had to struggle with all of the household responsibilities, a weight lifted she eagerly welcomed. She thought about her deceased husband. He may not have been the best husband or father in the world, but he took care of what needed to be done. She hated to admit it, and probably would never say it out loud, but when Carl died, she felt overwhelmed when all of the responsibilities fell into her lap. But Randy's settling in and assuming his position as man of the house provided her with more free time, so instead of dreaming about how her life could be, she would start doing something to make her life better. She mulled over the Chutney News, one of the local newspapers, hoping to find something to whet her taste. She loved to cook, but she had no desire to return to the cooking group that she and Carl had been a part of during their early years of marriage. Too many bad memories, she told herself. Anyway, I feel adventurous; I'll do something else.

She scanned the social section and read the descriptions of the groups that she never thought she would be able to join. Not that she didn't want to, but when Carl was alive, he was so controlling that he wouldn't allow her to do anything to express herself. She continued to scan the thin newspaper that she held in her hands. "I would join that