The Sparks Trilogy

By Sally A Allen

The Sparks Trilogy:
A Story of compelling attraction between a man and a woman.

Seeing Sparks:
Sparks fly with a new love.
Fading Sparks:
Sparks fade as the years go by.
After the Sparks:
The sparks are gone, replaced by joy and companionship.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Nov 15, 2013
• ISBN: 9781493105861

Sally A Allen

Sally A. Allen is originally from Wisconsin and currently lives in West Central Florida with her schnauzer, Sibby. While her novels are fiction, she draws from the many experiences she’s had in her life. Visit her website at www.sally-allen.webs.com.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

Kelly walked slowly to her car with tears in her eyes. She had worked in advertising for the Newport News for ten years. This afternoon she got the pink slip due to downsizing of the company. She supposed she could get another job in the same field, but the idea didn’t appeal to her. The economy was rampant and no one was hiring. To top it off, her ten year old poodle, Curly, had been hit by a car and died in her arms. The only bright spot was the fifty thousand dollars she inherited from her great aunt. That was a total surprise, so she quickly invested in a money market at the local bank.

What should I do? she wailed to herself. Kelly decided she would drive to her friend Josie’s house to cry on her shoulder. By the time she got to Elm Street and Josie’s house she was crying openly. She ran up the steps and when no one answered the door, she let herself in and spotted Josie sunning herself by her swimming pool. Hey, she called out.

Josie took off her sunglasses and peered at her friend. Come on over! she invited. When Kelly stepped forward with tears in her eyes, Josie sat up abruptly.

What on earth’s wrong? she asked.

Hiccupping, Kelly scrunched up her eyes. I got the pink slip. What in God’s name can I do now?

Come here, Josie said, patting a lounge chair next to her. Stop sniffling and tell me all about it!

Kelly moaned, The paper is downsizing and decided it didn’t need an advertising manager.

Oh honey, Josie said empathically, It’s a good thing you inherited some of Aunt Ella’s money so you won’t have to hurry finding another job.

I think I’ll go on a long cruise until I get over the shock. Where did that come from? she wondered. But the cruise did have some appeal.

I thought you didn’t like cruises, Josie stated flatly.

The Caribbean sounds wonderful right now, Kelly replied. It really does, Kelly decided. Then, No, I’d never do that, she thought.

Josie smiled at her, Good idea, she said.

I’ll think of something else, anything to get out of here! Kelly said in her mind.

She stood, I’ll call you later when I get used to being unemployed.

Josie stood and gave her a bear hug. With a Take it easy, Kelly was gone.

She walked into her empty house. What should I do? Kelly asked herself. After fixing herself a leftover meatloaf sandwich she sat in her comfortable recliner.

The television was on, but muted. The open window sent in enough of a breeze to keep her cool.

Kelly’s mind raced with ideas until she settled on one that was crazy, but feasible. She could just disappear! Much planning had to be done, but she was sure she could accomplish it in a few days. Then her mind went wild with all of the things she had to do.

Tomorrow she would gas up the Ford and get the oil changed. Thank goodness the car was only two years old so she didn’t have to worry about it breaking down.

Kelly would go to the bank, cash her payroll check and withdraw all but a hundred dollars from her money market account. Then she would get five hundred dollars in traveler’s checks and put the rest in cashier’s checks in her name.

Her mind racing with plans, she slept fitfully that night, but woke up with the adrenaline flowing. She was unable to get started soon enough.

Kelly called Tom at the Texaco Station and told him she was bringing her car in for servicing. It was due anyway, so he wouldn’t question it.

When she was sure Josie was up she called her and told her she was going on a cruise and asked her to pick up her mail. After a while there wouldn’t be much except magazines and Josie would enjoy them.

She then took her old water, sewer and garbage bills and estimated the next charge for each one. She put the checks in the mail, being careful to send a few more dollars to make sure they were completely covered.

Kelly put her phone on vacation disconnect and shut off the electricity. Then she wrote a letter to her landlord sending a month’s rent and terminating the lease after that.

Kelly called a used furniture store and asked them to pick up her furniture. With the money she received from the furniture she would have enough to get her started.

Her refrigerator was almost was empty anyway, so she had a Coke and a can of soup from her cupboard. She gazed at her mother’s old dishes and decided to take them with her. The same with her old silverware. She slowly packed them up and suddenly wondered what she was doing. Erasing the past and beginning the new, she thought.

She wondered what Bill would say when he found out. He was a dear friend, but nothing would ever come of it. The friendship ring he had given her was still on her finger.

The last thing was Kelly’s clothes, shoes, jewelry, etc. Carefully, she chose the outfits she wanted and put everything else in a pile to take to Goodwill. I should have gotten rid of half of this a long time ago, she chided herself. She placed her jewelry carefully in a zip lock bag, which she placed under her clothes in a large suitcase. Kelly was sure that Josie would take everything that was left. If she settled somewhere she would buy what she needed new.

With satisfaction she looked around. Yes, everything she held dear was gone. It gave her a sudden pang of loneliness. Was she really doing this? The neighbor’s dog began to bark and again she thought of her poodle, Curly. I miss her so, she cried to herself.

The next afternoon she placed everything in the trunk of the car, seated herself and buckled her seat belt. She started the ignition. As Kelly drove down the tree lined streets, past the large old houses, she felt a pang of regret. Kelly was born and raised here and now she was leaving it for good.

The future with all of it’s surprises beckoned. About fifty miles down the road she realized everyone would be looking for her car. She would have to trade it in, she decided.

The Ford dealership in Bradforn looked quiet. A lone salesman stood outside smoking a cigar. She turned into the lot and pulled perpendicular to the building. Through the large display windows she could see the new, polished models. Reluctantly, she walked over to the used cars from a year earlier. The prices were chalked on the windows. There was a green four door she thought was nice, but when she inspected it she saw that the tires were well worn and the mileage was too high. Sighing, she saw the salesman approach.

What can I show you missy? he called. Turned off by the missy thing she turned her back on him and proceeded down the aisle. A blue compact car caught her eye.

It’s a great car, the salesman shouted behind her. We’ve got a Carfax on this baby. Kelly looked in the window, but didn’t like the black and gray interior.

Sighing, she decided to look at the new cars. Why not? She thought to herself.

The salesman followed her into the showroom, sure that she was just looking and wouldn’t buy a thing.

In the showroom Kelly spotted a bright red, two door sports car. The flecks in the paint sparkled and she could picture herself behind the wheel, blonde hair flying in the breeze from the open sun roof. She looked at the window sticker and saw that it sold for $40,000. Steep, but with her trade in, it would probably be within reason. She looked at the burly salesman and asked,

Mind if I sit in it? Relaxed in the leather seats she thought the dash board looked like an airplane panel. She noticed a CD player and a good sound system. The interior was white with touches of dark gray. She loved the car immediately.

Can I take it for a test drive? she asked the potbellied salesman.

No, he said, but there’s a tan one just like it in the parking lot.

He followed her out the door and putting his hand on her shoulder bragged, Now here is a beauty! Kelly jumped with repulsion, but opened the door and slid into the driver’s seat. She started the car and the salesman jumped out of the way as she backed up. See you around, she chirped, putting the shift in drive.

Only five minutes, the salesman shouted as she exited the lot.

Kelly loved the way the car handled and it had a lot of power too. Must be a V8, she thought. She noticed the top speed on the speedometer was 120. Too fast for me, she said out loud. Purposely Kelly drove around for fifteen minutes and returning noticed the salesman pacing and looking at his watch.

Kelly braked and jumped out of the car. It’s a beauty, she called I’ll take the red one in the showroom.

The salesman looked like he swallowed his tongue, but said pleasantly Step into my office please and we’ll make out the papers. Kelly felt like she was going into the lion’s den.

She settled in a comfortable chair and looked around. How much is the trade in on my car? she asked.

About $20,000, he smirked.

Oh no, Kelly exclaimed it’s only two years old. I need more than that.

The salesman looked at her with disbelief. How much do you think? he asked.

26, 000, she replied quickly.

You’re trying to rob me!

You know you can sell it for a very good price. It only has 10,000 miles on it.

He looked pained. 25,000

To his surprise she agreed readily. Let’s sign the papers, she said, suddenly in a hurry.

How will you pay for this? We have a deal on interest right now.

Kelly said Cash on the line.

The salesman was shocked and made a note on his pad of paper. OK, all you have to do is pay me and I’ll have the boys take the car to polish it up a bit and fill it with gas. He picked up the phone, pushed a button, talked a bit and shortly a small man with a bald head drove the car away. Well little miss, that will take a while. What would you like to do? he asked, wiggling his eyebrows up and down.

Kelly ignored him.

Would you like a coke, coffee or a beer? he asked hopefully.

Just coffee, she replied

He set a cup of coffee in front of her and suddenly she wished she hadn’t asked for it. The liquid looked black and as thick as mud. It must have been sitting in the pot all day.

The salesman snickered. You should have had the beer. he said, laughing loudly.

CHAPTER 2

Twenty minutes later she was sailing along in her new sports car. Liking the feel of it, she stepped on the gas and took the ramp to Hwy 10 going west. Kelly was pretty sure the road would take her to Texas and a new beginning. She wondered if everyone back home knew she was gone. That would be the talk of the town for a while, until something else came up. Kelly was glad she was going somewhere where no one knew her.

The landscape was flat and few towns broke the monotony. Once she almost nodded off and decided it was time for nourishment and rest. A while later she spied a silver diner with Mel’s Place written across the front. Next to it, nestled in a group of trees, was a small whitewashed building. The sign said Rest InnVacancy. Just what the doctor ordered, Kelly thought. She stopped in the diner for a cheeseburger and fries, then rode over to the small motel and checked in.

By yourself? an old man behind the counter asked suspiciously.

Yes, I am and I have been traveling a long time and need some rest. Kelly replied.

We don’t allow any company in our rooms. the man declared, glasses slipping down his nose.

I’m glad of that! Kelly said emphatically, No noise!

That will be forty dollars. Cash only, he said. Kelly took out the money and put it on the counter.

Check out time is ten o’clock, the maid comes in then. He handed a key to her and gestured. Last room on the right, number101. Sleep tight.

Kelly found the room easily and was surprised to see that although the furniture was worn, the room was spotless.

She got a small duffle bag from the trunk, which held her cosmetics, a tshirt and a fresh pair of jeans.

Exhausted, she entered the room and flopped on the bed. It sagged under her weight. Oh well, she thought, it doesn’t matter. I’ll sleep like a baby. And she did.

Before she knew it the sun was streaming in the window and it was morning.

She looked at her watch and saw that it read nine o’clock. Jumping up, she headed to the shower to get cleaned up and wash her hair before she had to vacate the room.

She was glad her hair was long and straight and could be left to dry on its own.

When she had cleaned up and changed into fresh clothes she threw the dirty ones in a plastic bag she found in the small closet. She grabbed her key from the dresser and went out to store her belongings in the trunk.

Then Kelly went into the office to return her room key. This time there was a plump old woman behind the desk with apple red cheeks.

Good morning dear, she greeted Kelly. Did you sleep well?

Like a baby, Kelly replied.

Happy traveling, the woman said smiling.

Thank you, she returned, and then ran over to the diner for a large cup of coffee to go.

On the road even the air conditioning didn’t remove the oppressive heat. She pulled over on the shoulder of the road to tie her long blonde hair into a ponytail. It lifted her wet hair from the back of her neck. That’s better, she muttered and she pulled back onto the road.

Beyond the hill, she could see a police car stopped, checking the traffic.

Kelly’s heart thumped and she had to swallow to keep down the bile. Were they looking for her? She checked the speedometer and saw she was going a little too fast. Quickly she took her foot off the accelerator and reduced her speed five miles an hour. As she sailed past the police car it didn’t move. She breathed a sigh of relief. She looked in her rear view mirror and saw the vehicle pull out, put on the flashing red and blue lights and take chase of the car behind her. That was close, she said nervously and realized she would have to change her appearance. At the next town, she promised herself.

CHAPTER 3

The next town was a mere village, sporting a restaurant, filling station, grocery store, doctor’s office, tavern and a drug store with the name Family Drugs.

She parked in front of the drug store and entered through a heavy wooden door.

The pharmacist wore a white coat and a large friendly grin. Welcome to our little town! he said merrily.

Kelly couldn’t help but smile. Hello, she said cheerily. The shelves were filled with liniment, alcohol and cough syrup, all depicting a true country store. A few magazines were on a rack next to candy bars. On impulse Kelly took a Hershey’s bar with almonds and Snickers too.

Perusing the aisles she finally found a small section of hair color. It sported one of each color, black, brown, silver, light blonde and a brassy looking red. She guessed she’d try red for a change because she always liked the color. Red hair was prevalent in her family, but she had the misfortune of coming up blonde. She took after her deceased father, she guessed.

Kelly spotted an array of sunglasses and purposely choose a pair with large, round frames. After grabbing a large brimmed straw hat, with a yellow ribbon, she was set to go.

You have a little bit of everything here, Kelly told the man behind the counter.

Sure do. the pharmacist said as he rang up Kelly’s purchases. The total came to $29.50 and she dug in her purse to find money and change. Here you go, she said with a smile.

The man looked out the front window. Nice wheels, he grinned.

Kelly looked out the window expecting to see her old car, but instead saw the new, shiny red Ford. I just got it yesterday, she replied and wondered if she should have mentioned that. No one would stop in this one horse town, she thought.

Well, goodbye! Kelly called jovially as she opened door.

Stick around for a while. The folks are real friendly here! the man cried.

Maybe another time. Kelly replied and went through the door and on her way.

It wasn’t long before she spotted the Welcome to Texas sign and shortly after a visitor’s center. A bit down the road there was a small restaurant with gas pumps and a motel. This one was a Ramada Inn and looked fairly large. Kelly was exhausted from the heat so she decided to quit driving for the day.

First she filled up the gas tank, and then stopped at the restaurant for a decent meal.

The waitress was blonde and chewing gum. She reminded Kelly of the character, Flo, in the old television series. Welcome ya’ll she drawled, so Kelly had her first sample of good old southern lingo.

She looked at the menu and noticed everything was served with grits and corn muffins. She definitely didn’t like grits; they tasted like cream of wheat to her. Checking the chalkboard, she noticed an open faced beef sandwich with mashed potatoes and gravy, served with pinto beans and slaw.

Kelly’s mouth actually watered. How long has it been since she had a decent meal? She ate faster then she should have, but lingered over the strong coffee.

When the waitress gave her the bill she lingered a while at Kelly’s table. Just passing through? she asked, cracking her gum.

Kelly nodded yes.

The Flo lookalike said Wish I could blow this dump.

Why don’t you? Kelly asked.

"Because I have a no good lazy husband that lies around and drinks from morning til night.

The roads right here, Kelly gestured, but then decided it wasn’t her business and she got up quickly.

I know the waitress said mournfully. Have a good trip to Wonderland, Alice.

I will, Kelly promised.

When she got out to her car she saw the waitress staring open mouthed at her new auto.

Kelly waved and roared her engine a little as she exited the drive and got back on the road. She was ten miles down the highway before she realized that she had forgotten about the Ramada Inn. Oh well, she wasn’t tired anymore and had a few more miles left in her.

She finally stopped seventy five miles further. This time it was at a wellkept Holiday Inn. She saw the green grass and thought it would be a good spot to let Curly out. Kelly’s eyes filled as she thought of the dog and realized she had to pull herself together. Maybe she would get another dog some day.

The room was very clean and colorful, with a floral bedspread, clean carpeting and heavy drapes. A wave of cool air wafted from the air conditioner. This is heaven, Kelly sighed and promptly fell asleep on the bed with all of her clothes on.

In the morning she woke up at ten thirty, check out time was noon here. Kelly stretched slowly and opened the drapes to the parking lot, just to have the pleasure of seeing her pretty car. The sun was already baking the concrete.

Suddenly she couldn’t imagine another day on the road. Instead, she would enjoy one more day in this heavenly room. Having made up her mind, she took the hair color from the package.

According to the directions, she was to part her hair every half inch and squeezed the mixture into the parts. Mix tube number one with tube number two, she read. Apply as directed, then use the remaining color to work into your scalp. Easy enough, Kelly thought. She put a towel around her shoulders to catch any spillage and was ready to begin. The procedure took only ten minutes, but when she was through she fumed at her image in the mirror. The color looked anything but red.

She patiently waited for twenty five minutes before washing the color from her hair. Now it looked more like it should. She squeezed tube number three, the crème rinse, into her hand and applied it lavishly to her wet hair. She worked it into her tresses and waited the required five minutes. Sticking her head under the faucet, she thoroughly rinsed the conditioner out with warm water until it ran clear.

Kelly peeked into the mirror. Her hair looked too dark a red! She toweled her hair dry and combed it straight like she wore it. Every few minutes she went in and sneaked a peek in the bathroom mirror. As it dried it was gradually getting lighter. Kelly cheered silently to herself and waited for her hair to dry completely.

She considered chopping it off, but decided to get a professional cut.

Donning shorts, a tank top and sandals, she decided to put on her sunglasses and hat. Looking in the mirror she smiled at her image. A real Texas belle, she thought and began humming The Yellow Rose of Texas.

She decided to run to the lobby and book another night. It was so pleasant here.

She opened the door and stepped out, and then she stopped dead in her tracks. Her heart started to hammer and she could hardly breathe. A couple was getting into their car. Mr. And Mrs. Bergman! Her old neighbors! What were they doing here? Hastily Kelly turned her back and tried to run into her room, but the door was locked. The card! she cried, panicking. Taking her purse off her shoulder she quickly found the plastic card and inserted it. The door swung open and Kelly rushed into the cool room. Sweat was pouring down the crack between her breasts and under her armpits. She sunk down on the bed and put her head in her hands.

That was close, she lamented, What if I had been a few minutes earlier?

She forgot about her red hair, but decided then and there she had to do more to conceal her real identity. Kelly gulped down a cool glass of water. Straightening her shoulders she was now ready to enter the lobby.

Good morning, a well groomed lady greeted Kelly.

Good morning, Kelly replied.

Kelly asked the woman if she could stay another day and then realized she didn’t know who she was. Kelly smiled and said, Kelly Kramer, room 204.

The woman checked some papers. We have a large group coming in, but we have a few rooms. Yours can be one of them. She looked happy that she could accommodate Kelly.

On the way out of the lobby Kelly saw a board saying Welcome RealtorsConference Room to your left. So that was the group, Kelly thought. No wonder the Bergmans were here. She was going to head to the coffee shop, but decided against it. Instead, she purchased a paperback book from the gift shop and returned to the comfort of her room.

She flipped her hat and sunglasses on the dresser, plumped the pillows with her fist and stood them vertically against the headboard. She sat down and opened her book.

She didn’t remember when she dozed off, but awakened with a start several hours later. The book had slipped off the bed onto the floor. Kelly peered at her wristwatch. Three o’clock! How had she slept so long? Suddenly she was starved. She couldn’t afford to get sick now.

Kelly went in the bathroom and rinsed off her face. Then she wiped under her arms and applied a fresh batch of deodorant. Kelly grabbed her purse and put on her hat and sunglasses, and then she stepped out the door into the unrelenting sun.

After she ate she felt sleepy again, so she decided to get some more rest and get on the road early.

CHAPTER 4

As Kelly drove along the next morning she spotted a larger town. It should have a hair salon, she thought. No sooner had she had that thought, she spotted a small white cottage with Suds and Scissors written in large letters. Underneath, in smaller letters, the sign said We snip and trim too. Kelly smiled at the humorous sign and walked into the cool, sterile comfort of the salon.

She saw four hair dryers and five chairs, one vacant. A plump black haired lady motioned her over.

When Kelly was seated she said, Please give me a short haircut.

I have plenty of time for that. the lady replied. My next appointment isn’t for another half hour. But are you sure you want to cut these lovely tresses?

It’s a little too warm for long hair. Kelly said, I like it short in the summer.

Do you like bangs?

Please, Kelly decided without thinking.

I’m going to make longer sides and a short look in the back. Does that meet with your approval?

Yes indeed, Kelly replied.

When the hair dresser was done, she was delighted with the style because it was so different than she usually wore it.

The woman was a genius! Kelly smiled at herself in the mirror. With a little make-up she would wow the best of them.

She looked at the beautician after checking her hair style in the mirror. You’re a magician! she exclaimed.

My dear, I don’t often get so perfect a model to work with.

Kelly blushed, and then stood up. I bet you say that to all the girls, she said with a laugh. She paid for her cut and was sure to leave a generous tip. My money’s going fast, she mused. None the less, she found a little restaurant down the street that served delicious Italian food.

CHAPTER 5

Kelly was on the road again, wheeling to some unknown destination. I’m getting sick of this! she exclaimed to herself. I need someone to talk to, someone to put their arms around me and love me. She looked down at the gear shift snuggled between the two front seats. No one could even make love in this car. Then she said crossly, Jeez, I’m getting senile! I wonder what it would be like to settle down and have a normal life, picket fence and all.

Kelly banished the picture and immediately thought of Josie. God, she would like to talk to her! She squelched the desire to call her. She felt hungry again and her stomach was growling. If she kept this up she would gain ten pounds. It’s all boredom, she consoled herself. Up ahead she spotted a huge truck stop, at least ten eighteen wheelers were in the parking lot. She pulled into the parking area and stopped the car between two rigs. Kelly got out of the car and stretched.

When she walked into the greasy spoon a smell of grease and fried food wafted in the air. My clothes will smell like a french fry, she thought, Oh well, who cares? There was a rack of postcards by the cashier’s desk, so Kelly walked over and checked them all out. She found one that stated,

Missing you with all my heart and there was a big red heart printed on it. Perfect, she thought and paid fifty cents to the cashier.

The place was noisy and truckers were loudly telling offcolor jokes to anyone who would listen. She sat at the end of the counter in the only vacant seat and pulled her pen out of her purse. Kelly flipped the card over and in almost illegible handwriting wrote, Don’t worry, I’m fine. She signed it Later, then she addressed it to Josie’s home address.

The guy next to her bumped her arm slightly. He looked at her and grinned. Whoops, I’m sorry! he said nonchalantly. He smelled like soap. Kelly knew they had bunking rooms and showers in these large truck stops.

It’s okay, she said looking away.

You’re not one of these hustling broads around here, are you? he asked.

Kelly frowned and replied, Of course not. I’m on the road and very hungry.

Thought so. Where are you headed?

Anywhere but home.

So you’re running. Is it from a badass husband?

No, nothing like that. Just wanted to see new territory, I guess.

Well, Texas is beautiful alright if you get by the oil rigs and pumping horses.

I’ve seen a ton of those. she said.

Wait until you see the rolling hills around Austin. You’ll love it there.

Kelly nodded vaguely. She asked for a menu, looked at it and decided on a cube steak dinner. She gave her order to the waitress and smiled at her companion.

Been on the road long? she asked.

Ten years, but it’s a rough life. I’m thinking of quitting, it’s no life for a married man with a family. he replied.

How many days are you gone?

If it’s a cross country haul, a week or two. Then a few days at home and I’m gone again.

Kelly shook her head. What makes you do it? she asked.

This time he looked distant. The pay is good. Salary plus mileage.

Oh well, good luck, Kelly said eyeing the food plate in front of her. There were two cube steaks obviously still partially frozen and stuck together. She looked again and started laughing. Gingerly, she ate the edges of the steaks and all of her french fries.

The trucker next to her looked horrified and summoned the waitress.

No, Kelly said, It’s okay.

You sure?

Yep, I’m full anyway.

Well then let me pay for it. he offered.

No! she almost shouted, but then she asked quietly, But will you do me a favor? Where are you headed?

Cleveland Ohio, he answered.

She passed him the postcard, Would you mail this when you get there?

He looked at her and grinned. Don’t want your boyfriend to know where you are, huh?

Kelly ignored the remark. I’d really appreciate it, Thanks.

I gotta make up time, so I’ll be on my way. Sorry about your meal. I can tell you’re a good lady. Take care of yourself. He lifted his hand and waved goodbye.

The waitress eyed Kelly’s three fourths full plate. Don’t like the food deary? she asked, openly glaring at Kelly. She was heavily made up and her eyes looked droopy and half open.

Kelly replied, I had two frozen steaks on my plate. I just ate around the edges.

The waitress stared at the plate and shook her head. She sniffed loudly and said, I’ll comp it, now get out of here.

Kelly got up hastily and ran out the door.

The man who was sitting in a car near to her was waiting for a rig to move in front of him. When the trucker saw her, he sounded his loud horn and gave her a thumbs up. Kelly waved and walked to her car.

In a good mood, Kelly turned left and started half yelling and half singing On the Road Again. Tired of that she switched on the radio to a rock station. She tapped the wheel with her fingers. She felt better than she had for a long time.

CHAPTER 6

In the next town she parked in a parking lot to stretch and get some exercise. It was about four in the afternoon and people were running along, going about their business. What a rat race, Kelly observed, I’m glad I’m not in the crush anymore.

She moved past a dilapidated old building that appeared to be a place to board horses many years ago. A faded out sign announced Livery House and a few water soaked, bits of hay peeked under the sagging door.

In contrast to the old building next to it was a clean, white stuccoed cottage with bright blue trim. Working out is fun! the sign read over the highest point of the building. Gazing at it, Kelly thought working out was a great idea. She missed her time in the gym. What a way to work off a few pounds! She opened the door and walked into the gym.

The grunts of men doing pushups, the whirring of the bike wheels and the clang of dumbbells assaulted her ears. A hunk of a guy, with huge biceps, approached her.

Way I help you? he asked.

I’d like to work out for a while. she replied

Are you a member? I haven’t seen you around.

No, I’m just passing through, but a workout seemed like a good idea.

In that? he motioned to her sun dress and floppy straw hat. Kelly laughed. She hadn’t thought of that.

Never mind, I’m sure there’s a pair of tights in the locker room to fit you and you can wear one of my shirts. At the idea he laughed. It will be too big!"

Decked out in her make-shift outfit she went straight to the stationary bikes.

Hopping on the seat, she was soon pedaling at a good clip.

After that, she lay on a mat and did thirty pushups. She sweated profusely. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Mr. Atlas staring at her.

Swiftly, she moved to the dumbbells and picked up the lightest one. The next dumbbell was a bit heavier, and the next one, and the next one. She quit lifting after five times because the sixth one was too heavy for her to lift.

Her hair was plastered to her head and sweat ran in rivets from her armpits. Kelly panted through her mouth and let her body slow down. When her heart beat quieted she marched into the shower and turned the faucet to cold. The cold water sluiced into her warm skin and she trembled with the change of temperature. Satisfied, she toweled off and picked the wet tshirt from the floor and wiggled out of the clinging tights. She threw them on the counter and slipped back into her sun dress and sandals.

Kelly finger combed her short red hair, donned her hat and sunglasses and was ready to go.

She stopped at the desk to pay for her workout. The muscle man was at the register. Ten dollars, he said. You’ve done this before, haven’t you?

Kelly nodded her head yes.

Not bad at all. I was watching you.

No kidding! Kelly thought to herself.

Hey, I bet you’re thirsty. How about a glass of orange juice? In a flash he handed a glass to her.

She was very thirsty and gulped it down quickly. Thanks, she said.

My pleasure. Would you like to join our little club? It’s only ten dollars.

Kelly shook her head no, but smiled up at him.

Ah, shucks, he grinned, You’ve got beautiful big blue eyes, you know. He said flirting with her.

Although it was flattering, Kelly held up her hand. I’ve got to go, she stated.

Come again, he said with hope in his face.

I don’t think so, she called walking toward the door. I’m late for my wedding.

She laughed when he solemnly said Damn, I have all the luck.

Kelly smiled all the way to the car. She actually felt attractive. In a good mood, she zipped down the highway and it seemed like only minutes when she was two hundred miles down the road. By that time the sun was sinking in the horizon and dusk was on its way. Time for another motel room, she thought with distaste.

CHAPTER 7

This time the motel had a Hawaiian theme. From the Tike bar in back, she could hear music and laughter. The air rang with the sounds of karaoke. Might be fun, Kelly thought to herself, but when she got to her room she nixed the idea and went straight to bed to ease her aching muscles.

Around midnight there were some sharp knocks on her door. Kelly bolted upright and listened carefully. She could hear other people hollering to each other. Coming out of her daze, Kelly realized the karaoke party must have broken up.

Someone was now rattling her door handle.

Go away! Kelly shouted, I’m trying to sleep! There was a moment of silence and a slurred sorry and she heard irregular steps going down the hall. She lay back down and tried fruitlessly to go back to sleep. It was impossible, so Kelly put on her slippers and trudged over to the coffee machine that the motel provided.

She took a sip of the steaming coffee and promptly burned her tongue. Shit, she said disgusted. Now she would never go back to sleep. Guess I’ll turn the TV on; she thought and flipped through the channels. It seemed they all featured cartoons. Who watches cartoons in the middle of the night? She happened on LMN and settled down to watch a romantic movie. Kelly became so engrossed in it she hardly noticed the first rays of sun lighting up the sky. Guess I’ll get going early today, she said to the empty room. A song popped into her head Six days on the road and I’m gonna make it home tonight! she sang. Soon she was dressed and ready to go.

Get gas, eat, drive, and eat again she chanted to herself. She was getting sick of the routine.

Because she was very hungry she ordered a breakfast of eggs, bacon, two pancakes and strong coffee at the restaurant. She did herself proud and ate the whole thing. Fortified, Kelly was ready to handle another sizzling hot day in front of her.

About a mile down the road she drove into a Shell station and filled her tank up with gas. She noticed she had put a thousand miles on the car. A long way from home, she thought. So this is what it’s like to run away! As she pulled out, she saw a dark form lying in the road. As she got closer she realized someone had run over a cat. Kelly averted her eyes, hating to see anything dead. It was then she noticed a little kitten huddled on the shoulder of the road. She braked the car, got out, approached the tiny creature and took it into her arms.

Woefully, the kitten looked up to her with small dark eyes and Kelly was hooked.

Cuddling the cat, she carefully set the baby down on the passenger seat. It was shivering and scared. Kelly leaned over the seat and retrieved a blanket from the floor. She must have taken it along for just this moment. She thanked God the little thing had survived. Cuddled in the warm blanket, the little girl fell asleep.

Kelly ruffled it’s fur and noticed four white paws on the black body.

What a beautiful little one you are, she crooned, I’ll bet you’re hungry. When did you eat last? Then Kelly wondered if the kitten could eat on its own yet. Oh dear, what will I do if it can’t?

At a grocery store she bought milk, cat litter and a small plastic bowl. She asked the girl behind the counter if the store had a small, flat box.

The girl summoned a guy named Frank and asked, Do you have an old cola box this lady can have? The girl had nine rings in her ears, but seemed nice.

Frank came back with a 7up flat. What do you want this for? he asked in a squeaky voice. Growing pains, Kelly thought, but said For my little kitten, thank you. The boy smiled and his bad case of acne seemed to disappear.

Kelly hurried back to the car and when she opened the door the kitten raised it’s wobbly head, then put it back down on the blanket. She stowed her supplies in the back seat and opened the trunk to get out a cooler for the milk.

Getting behind the wheel, she gazed at the fluff of fur. I’ll call you Socks, she said and smiled.

Kelly was no longer alone; she had a little passenger now. When the kitten got restless she knew she had to find a motel. It was getting hungry, had to go potty or both.

A motel appeared on the right side of the road and she realized it would be a good choice because it wasn’t too fancy and probably allowed pets. Kelly checked into a first floor room and began unloading things from the car. The kitten sat up and stretched, her little mouth opening in a yawn. Kelly saw little white teeth and a pink tongue. I love you already! she exclaimed.

It took Kelly a little while to get organized. She set the litter box up and put the kitten in it. Socks rooted around in it and seemed to think it was fun, but didn’t do her business. Kelly poured a small amount of milk in the shallow bowl and picked up the kitten. Instantly it started lapping at the milk. Kelly breathed a sigh of relief.

In the morning she lifted the kitten out of her box lined with the blanket. She placed her in the litter box and commanded Now do your thing! To Kelly’s surprise Socks rooted around for a bit, then hunched her back. Kelly crooned, That’s wonderful you little darling. Mom’s proud of you. After that, the two bonded and became inseparable.

CHAPTER 8

As she drove along later that day the landscape was changing. The grass was greener and the flat terrain became more uneven. About noon she was well into the rolling hills. Was this the scenery around Austin? An hour later she was sure, when she passed the site of LBJ’s ranch. She thought about stopping and checking out the museum, but in her excitement she drove on.

Kelly stopped for gas at a gas station and the service man couldn’t have been friendlier. Wash your windshield? he asked, Check your oil, the works?

Please, she replied. Is there a town up ahead?

Yes, Merryville, up the road about ten miles. It’s a sleepy little town, famous because Michener wrote one of his novels when he stayed there. He thought a moment, and then said He was writing all those books about states then. The one he wrote here was ‘Texas’". With a grin, he took her last bit of cash and wished her luck.

Now I’m all out of money, Kelly thought, I hope the sleepy little town ahead is modern enough to cash traveler’s checks. If not, even a small town must have a bank.

Merryville was a beautiful little village with many trees and a small creek running alongside it. Kelly felt instantly at home. Socks lifted her head and seemed to be sniffing the air. Maybe this was it!

She passed many antique shops, an aged library, a tea room and a quilting store. She wondered where the people got groceries, but at the next left, away from the old section, was a modern Kroger’s supermarket, a car wash and office buildings. A unique chalet served German food.

CHAPTER 9

In front of an upscale building that stood alone was a sign announcing "Dr. Rick Martin DVM. Socks needs a checkup, she thought, pulling into the parking lot.

She aroused the little girl and holding her tightly approached the door. The hours were posted there and with chagrin she realized she missed them by fifteen minutes. Disgruntled, she headed back to the car.

Miss, Kelly heard a voice call. She turned around and a man in a white coat beckoned her. Come back.

Kelly returned and the kind man took Socks from her arms with a Hi little mite! Do you have something wrong with you?

No, Kelly said hastily, I found the kitten on the side of the highway and decided to keep her. I just wanted her checked over.

The vet smiled. I was locking up, but I’ll make time to help you. Come on in. he gestured to the door. Inside there was a reception desk, chairs and a long counter. The walls were lined with pictures of dogs of every description. Shelves displayed bags of dog and cat food.

By the way, I’m Rick. the doctor said. He looked at Kelly, And you? he questioned.

Kelly Kramer

A pleasure, he replied and took her hand in his strong, warm fingers. Right this way.

Kelly didn’t know if it was from the unfamiliar smells or what, but Socks began to squirm. There, there, she said, patting the kitten’s head. Settle down.

The vet smiled boyishly. A lot of animals have that reaction. Intuition I guess.

He placed the kitten on a long, steel table and checked over Sock’s body. I’m assuming she hasn’t had her shots?

Kelly answered, I don’t know. I expect not.

The doctor took a syringe from the sideboard and injected the kitten. She jumped a bit but didn’t make a sound. Good girl, he said, patting her head. It was obvious that Socks wanted Kelly, so he lifted the kitten and placed it into her arms.

What about diet? Is she large enough to eat solid food?

I’ll give you a sample of kitten food that I know she’ll like. She should have flea medication also because we’re lousy with fleas around here. Have you thought of having her fixed? I’m a big advocate of that. Kelly said Of course. She was well aware of the multiple feral cats in the US.

I’ll tell you what; Tuesday is my operating day, so why don’t you bring her in about ten o’clock?

Sure. Kelly replied, thinking how fast this was going and wondering if she should be here at all.

Would you like a cup of coffee? he asked. It should still be warm.

Kelly found herself saying yes and both of them, plus the kitten, sat in the comfortable chairs in the lobby to drink coffee and talk. Kelly told him she was traveling, looking for a place to settle.

Interesting. he stated, "I did the very same thing a few years ago. I graduated from veterinary school at Baylor and hit the road before I got into practice.

I couldn’t resist the beauty of this country, so here I am!"

I don’t know if we’re staying or moving on, but it’s a beautiful area. Give it a try, you’ll like it. he replied confidently.

Oh my gosh, Kelly said alarmed, it’s almost six o’clock and I don’t know where we’re spending the night. Is there a motel close by?

Never fear, Rick said, patting her knee. In any other case Kelly would have swatted his hand away, but she sensed it wasn’t like that.

Rick continued, Mrs. Murphy will take you in. She has a comfortable apartment that she rents out. It’s right down the road.

I have her, Kelly gestured at Socks.

No problem, he said. She has three cats and loves every one of them. If it’s okay with you I’ll call ahead and tell her to expect you.

Kelly couldn’t believe it. She didn’t know people could be so kind to a stranger. Gee, thanks, she breathed.

He gave her directions to Mrs. Murphy’s house and promised to call ahead.

Thank you so much, Kelly said again, meaning it, I owe you one.

I’ll hold you to that, he said laughing.

It wasn’t until she got to Mrs. Murphy that Kelly realized she hadn’t paid the vet a dime.

Kelly immediately loved the house. It was pale yellow clapboard with a wooden shingled roof. Shutters framed the exterior windows. It resembled a duplex with two doors visible on either side.

Kelly had barely shut off the motor when a gray haired, plump lady opened a door and stepped out smiling.

Hello dear, she called out. Kelly took Socks in her arms and went to greet Mrs. Murphy.

Well, I see you have a baby.

Yes I do, Kelly said, grateful the lady didn’t object.

I have three cats of my own, but they are getting old and it would be great to have a young one around here again. She gestured, Come, come. We can’t stand here all day. I’ll show you your quarters and I have cold ham sliced for sandwiches.

Kelly found herself shepherded into a neat Victorian