Closures

By S.A. Neff

Closures is a story of laughter, excitement, sentiment and above all else closure to lifes unanswered questions. KC is an investigator that uses her Law Enforcement background along her life experiences to assist others in finding missing people. Her goal is to do more than just give her clients an address. She works to help them find true closure to the hardships of missing loved ones, broken relationships, or business deals gone wrong. She is finding out that by helping others, she has helped herself.
KC is also taking on new adventures in her life through hunting and romance. She feels the strong bond of friendship and learns the meaning of being home. This is the first in many adventures for KC.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Aug 19, 2014
• ISBN: 9781493198016

S.A. Neff

I am married to my soulmate, Ti Neff. We have seven adult children and three grandchildren. Family is very important to us. We live in the beautiful mountain community Susanville, CA with the Sierra-Cascade Mountains to our west and the beautiful high desert to the east. Our two labs, Moses and Aaron are the greatest companions hunting and at home. Hunting and writing are my passions. I enjoy putting them together with adventurous hunting in my writing. These adventures are based off true hunts and the on-going movies in my head. I have written my entire life, but Closures is the first of my novels I have wanted to share with the world. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did writing it.

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Copyright © 2014 by S.A. Neff.

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

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

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Rev. date: 08/15/2014

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CONTENTS

Dedication

Missing Persons

Him

Closure

Back To The Hunt

Ms. Holstin

The Man Of The Mountain

Forgiveness

The Trophy

Beginnings And Endings

Never Give Up

A Great Hunt

On To Something

For The Men In My Life

The Trip

Love Will Keep You Alive

The Scouting Trip

Connections

The Pinnacle

Dedication

This book is dedicated to the love of family. My family made this possible.

Specifically, I want to thank my Mom and Dad, Clara and Darrell Gattis. They put so much support in me my entire life, and told me to use their money to have one of my works published. Here it is Mom.

My husband must be mentioned because he not only supports my writing with words, but gives me time and space to write continually. He never looks for me to work more and write less. Ti Neff Thank you for telling me to go for it!

My sons, Scotty and Forest, encouraged me to do it through the entire process of publishing this book. You boys are amazing inspiration. Scotty said to me one day, Get it done and mark it off your list.

A very special Thank YOU to my dear friend and Editor, Michael Melville. We have seen some fun times and some very hard times over the years. Thanks buddy for always being a friend through them all. You did a great job of editing while leaving my special kind of flare!

MISSING PERSONS

T here was only one way to go, she stops, takes a deep breath, knowing that this would be the start of another adventure. Each case she investigates is an adventure of some type. She is on her own again, happy with her life. The air is calm, the future bright.

Nothing had been easy yet; she had pulled through the struggles with her head held high. Her shattered heart healed again. Not taking too much time to over-think anything, she throws her pack on her shoulder. It is time for her to go for it.

This case brings her to a small town, uniquely centered between the forests of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the deserts of Nevada. Her instincts say the others missed something right here, where it all began.

As KC walks into the little auto repair shop on the corner, she immediately notices that there are some characters inside with life exuberating from their laughter and smiles.

Where could a person find a warm clean room? she asks.

The character with the long mustache laughed, while the other man says, Mam most of the rooms in town are clean, to find a warm room anywhere, is a challenge because this is a bitter cold beginning to winter. He keeps talking about how cold fall is, while the second gentleman answers quietly getting close, face to face.

The rooms across the street are suitable standard rooms. The price is reasonable. Where are you from? His eyes are kind. His spirit seems strong. She notices that he is not looking at her but into her, giving her the feeling she is made of glass. KC does not want any connection; she quickly ignores his question. Thanks. She says to the first guy, as she walks out. She had a job to do, which did not include getting involved with the first guy in town that she met.

Whew, that woman is irresistible, Sam says in amazement.

"Oh Sam, has lonely obscured your vision? She wasn’t bad looking, but really all that?" Gus replies, not so impressed.

She has that something a man can only dream of, I swear it. Sam states as serious as if giving bad news. Sam you sound too serious. What’s up with that? Should I remind you of your famous line, women are women are women… Laughing, Gus realizes Sam is not listening to him at all.

After crossing the road, KC steps inside a clean small area to check into an average motel for the night. How many nights would you care for the room? How many adults are staying? A middle aged hotel clerk asks.

One night and one adult. How much? KC questions in return.

KC gets out her wallet, hands over the credit card she uses only for travel. She does this to make the reimbursement paperwork easier when she gets back to her main office.

It is $49.99 plus tax per night; here is your card back. Here is the key Ms. Day. The clerk says while taking a good look at KC. She decides KC has an unusual beauty for a middle aged woman who’s not wearing make-up.

Thank you.

Welcome.

KC’s room is plain but clean, sparse as most overnighters. She checks to make sure the door is locked. She then clears the room, as was her habit. Opening the shower curtain to maintain she was securely alone, which is necessary for her to have the ability to rest.

KC pulls out her sweat suit she would sleep in after her hot shower.

Hey there, I know you are home already tonight. I was just calling the office to check in. I am in Susanville, Ca. I will email the number and address of the motel. Tomorrow I will be interviewing the first prospect for missing son. I will report on why I have chosen him. Why he was not checked in the past, all by email tomorrow evening. Otherwise all is good.

KC continued her message, Christy give me a call if anything comes up. Please send that school record as soon as possible. Thanks for everything lady. Have a good day. Night. KC hangs up knowing the call had not been necessary, but for some reason checking in at the office also kept her feeling connected to something stable.

Sis, good you are still up. How is little Joy? I miss her so much. I will try to get home to pick her up as soon as possible. KC is happy to reach Rory. She enjoys the sound of her sister’s voice.

Glad you called. All is well, except of course running a million different directions and no one is ever satisfied…just kidding. My family is happy and busy, busy, busy. I love you sis. We will all be here when you get here. Drive careful. Hey, good luck on this one. The sisters hang up quickly, neither of them really saying much or getting much out of the other, as was their habit too often in life. KC decides when she is there visiting next time to take a couple extra minutes to really talk to her sister.

Clean, relaxed, ready for sleep, KC turns on the cable TV. She needs to check the weather forecast. Raining again tomorrow, great she would be wet, while trying to find her information.

He was touching her in her favorite spots, knowing what would drive her crazy. KC could not help but respond. Craving the touch, tenderness, and feeling that she has wanted and needed, if only for a brief second. The passion rose and as usual so did the degree of ravage. The wonderful nibbling and tasting turns into biting. She should scream out. She tries and nothing happens, no sound will emit. It was going too far again, breaking her skin. Always there is pleasure, until the pain begins. Shocked at her body’s betrayal, she orgasms. Why, why, why?

KC wakes up in a sweat knowing the answers to her dream. She has changed her life. After a bit of help, KC has truly understood that in order to be the healthiest she can be, she must be real. To obtain pleasure from pain is not healthy. The damage eventually permanently scars both the body and the soul. No matter how tempting the excitement and danger are, they are not healthy when the body is what takes the abuse.

KC hoped to have the kind of love, that she had been promised. It has to be available. There must be men who are passionately fulfilling, yet healthy lovers, who would make a relationship beautiful, mentally and physically.

Reciting these pledges about her future to herself, and remembering the happiness she had found in her work, KC was able to lull herself back to a dreamless sleep. Rising early as she always does, coffee is her first thought. She dresses quickly to be off to find a hot cup of joe.

The leads to the case should be easy to find. KC’s client was the mother of two alienated children. The children had been a three-year-old daughter and a one-year-old son when they were separated from their mother. Now these children should be in their fifties.

Her coffee, giving her the oomph she needed, KC headed off to the feed store. According to the map it was only a couple miles on the other end of town. No traffic to speak of, so KC is there in minutes. The store is obviously proudly kept old fashion. The pen of baby chickens in front is very charming.

Hello, I am looking for Frank. I was told he owned this store, inside KC asks the first clerk walking by.

Oh Frank, he is in the warehouse. Can I assist you? says the clerk looking KC up and down. She knows KC is not a local, but yet thinks she could fit in anywhere. Brown straight hair, no make-up on, plain blue jeans, T-shirt and sneakers make this woman unnoticeable.

No, I just had a couple questions for him. Which direction is the warehouse? KC asks.

The warehouse is through the back door yonder, straight north towards the pole barn. It is on the right. You can’t miss it. The clerk is only too happy to send her to visit with Frank.

This autumn day surprises KC how cold it is, so cold the brisk air catches her breath. The rain seems to have lifted before sunrise. The grounds are clean, well organized, and obviously maintained with meticulous care. Inside the warehouse each inventory item is labeled, sectioned, and placed for the best possible chance to sell.

Workers are assisting customers, the bustle is welcoming. Excuse me mam, have you been helped? A comely gentleman asks KC, as she is wandering, while observing every possible detail. Experience has taught KC to track everything she sees. The more she is able to ascertain with each meeting, the less time it will take to analyze and report upon her findings of relevance to the case. Overall, she is much faster by being observant when it comes to solving the case.

I am looking for Frank. KC sweetly replies.

That would be me. I have to say, I have never been so glad to be Frank as this moment, with you looking for Frank. He smiles at her.

Ah ha, you are a charmer also. Is this your establishment? KC asks friendly and polite.

Yes, my humble life’s purpose is this warehouse full of commodities. We are stocked with the town’s basic necessities of life, everything from kitchenware to barnyard manure.

Laughing, KC asks as many questions as possible before having to explain herself. How long have you owned The Frontier?

Thirty-two years, but it is run the same as it was a hundred years ago. See, I cannot take credit for this business besides curtailing modernization. I have only added technology for our customers’ benefit at times. I keep as much of the traditional purpose as the original owners had, a family atmosphere where everyone in the family can find what they need. Frank replies.

What customer benefits? KC keeps him talking.

We put in the credit/debit machine. I have a perpetual inventory system. Other minor details are set up to keep the expected products available at all times. But enough of my boring business, what can I help you with? Frank feeling like he has said too much, wonders what this beautiful woman really wants.

Once they had spent a few minutes talking over the details of his business, KC starts asking Frank questions concerning his personal life.

Were you raised in Susanville, this small town with the great Sierra Mountains to the west and the beautiful desert to the east? KC enquires. I bet you came from a big family?

Frank replies with great pride showing, Yes, this has been my home my entire life. I have not wished to be anywhere else in the world. As for family, you are right again. We have a large family. I have three sisters, one brother. My parents raised us here, and all of us have stayed in the area, except our eldest sister. She married young, and then was swept away by her husband, a good man.

There are many members of our extended family still alive. Most of their families are local, each having children. They are raising them just as we were raised to know hard work, good food, and the love of the outdoors. Our holidays are major turnouts. Frank’s demeanor is healthy and happy.

Thank you Frank, for your time. I enjoyed the tour. I will be back again soon. KC has obtained the information she came for. Leaving, she also takes a snap shot of the store. Frank wonders about her for a moment, and then another customer has him showing them where a specific funnel is.

Back at her motel room, KC decides to start her report on Frank. She wants to create a way to dig deeper. The details of Frank’s raising, his family life, and his business sound like typically rural America. There is no mention of a missing mother or being raised by anyone other than his parents. His family actually sounds very close. He may not be the right man to be the son of her client. One lead maybe that the older sister who moved. If she is the proper age, she may be the missing daughter. KC needs to get her name, and KC takes note to do more checking on her.

Dinner is an excellent meal, surprising her that a small Mexican restaurant could have such a unique, rich flavor. El Tapeyac is decorated in the traditional themes of the Native/Spanish ethnic background of its owners. Lunch had been simple fast food, so she is happy for a stable meal. She will need it, in order to finish the evening paperwork.

KC looks around as she thinks to herself, The town has more charm than I had expected. Earlier, KC had enjoyed walking the beautiful trail made to highlight the countryside, while being available to everyone within the city limits. Children were riding their bikes along the river. There were joggers, as well as couples walking hand in hand. The sights and sounds have been refreshing after spending so many days in large cities.

After dinner and her nighttime routine, KC lays down to check the weather before she goes to sleep. Her thoughts travel to her repeating nightmare. She reminds herself that she has changed her life. She does not need to rattle the old bones of that unhealthy relationship. KC had seen that the relationship was bad for her all the way around. That’s why she decided to get out of it. She could see it well after spending time talking with a therapist, and being in the support group. Those things, as well as meditation had helped her see that her unhealthy actions, her denial, and her beliefs in the past were just that, the past. Caution and being aware of the warning signs would keep her from repeating the same mistakes again.

In her support group, KC learned that unhealthy sex is not uncommon. Women have many different experiences with sex, since there is no real guide or class in it. Some women started at a young age experiencing pain within their sexual experiences, which created confusion from that time on.

Other women truly chose pain to punish themselves; they enjoy it. They feel they deserve the punishment. There are so many issues with which to deal. There are wifely duties opposed to extremely high appetites for sex. And also there’s the ability to create pleasure for others at whatever cost to their own health, which became a cycle. The cycle damages the internal self and eventually also the body. She knows her actions and beliefs are not to be blamed on anyone, they just needed to change.

Keeping her thoughts focused on a more healthy area and not dwelling on the negative, KC did her meditation. She repeats the affirmation, I am loved, beautiful, and content being the woman I am today.

There is no fear any longer. She is adamant there will never be fear again. Mr. Right would have the perfect amount of tenderness and passion to fulfill her, without the need to push her further over the edge than is healthy for her. This is a reality, not just a dream. She thinks these things, as she doses off to sleep…Mr. Right.

KC wakes bright and early the next morning as usual. She heads out for her cup of coffee. As she is walking down Main Street, there is a ruckus outside the local corner grocery store. The little Mom and Pop style, family run business has an old fashioned automatic door, which is still newer than the store itself. Idaho Market is famous in town for their butchering, especially of wild game. The store’s nostalgia makes it a local favorite for one item stops or large meat orders. Their specialty is a selection of BBQ sauces, marinades, rubs, and spices for any style of cooking meat.

KC is walking to the coffee shop across the street, when she hears the ruckus in front of the Idaho Market. It is obviously a family squabble. Immediately she can tell it’s only a verbal disagreement taking place between a Mom and her son.

It is not my fault, so quit yelling at me! Calm down John! The beautiful woman says to her teenage son, as they are walking out of the store. The teenager is not listening. He yells at her. You should have known that it would turn out that way. What were you thinking? When has anything you said to Dad not created a big fight? I wish you would just stay out of my business. Don’t try to explain anything to Dad about my school attendance, my friends, or my attitude. As if you have any room to talk! he is yelling as they walk by KC.

John, you can be as angry as you want, but what I did was right. Your consequences have to be paid. Cutting class, The mother is still trying to talk sense to the young man.

Relieved that such issues are not hers, KC stops by the coffee shop. She drinks her coffee while trying to concoct another avenue to snoop around at the Frontier Feed Store. KC needs to find out more about Frank’s sister who moved away. She will have to speak to the older sister. She must try to decipher if his sister could be one of her client’s abandoned children.

Another crisp morning, yet another day perfect for walking. KC walks the trail realizing this is better than any gym membership she has ever had. Almost back to her room, she notices that man in the service station is staring at her. Completely out of character KC cannot help but wave, he smiles and waves back. A little giggle starts in her throat, she feels silly. It is just a wave.

Back in her room KC decides to go to the store with the idea of purchasing a new pair of shoes. This will give her the chance to talk to Frank again. Hopefully she can find out where his sister lives in order to visit the woman. KC hopes to either validate their identity or move to the next option.

Good morning again, how can we help you this lovely day? the clerk asks as KC walks in the door. It is refreshing that he remembers her after only one visit. I am looking to buy a new pair of shoes, something practical for outdoor walking. KC smiles and then looks around to see if Frank is anywhere in the vicinity.

Sally has been a clerk in this store for many years. She has always wished that Frank would find a partner in life; she noticed that KC is looking for Frank. Sally decides to help her get his attention before KC leaves. This woman maybe Mrs. Right!

Well now, you just follow me. I will show you our selection of foot ware. We have shoes for looks, comfort, work, and everything in between. Giggling to herself, Sally hoped KC found some in between.

As Sally leads KC to the back corner of the store, KC spans the building, but there is no sign of Frank. She needs the shoes, but also needs at least one more conversation with him to obtain enough information to keep on this lead or call it a dead end.

Please forgive me if I am being nosy but what has brought you to our little town? Sally enquires.

I am just traveling through but enjoyed the atmosphere enough to stay over a day or two. How long have you worked for Frank? KC decides to use this opportunity, if Sally wants to visit.

Oh me? I have been here about twelve years. I will probably work for Frank until I just can’t work another day. He is the best boss, but also a good friend. Frank works too hard. He spends too many hours in this place. I am always telling him to go to the movies or to get a beer, something that is not related to the Frontier. Sally is more than willing to talk without much coercion. It doesn’t take long to tell that Sally is hoping to influence KC’s interest in Frank on a personal level. Flattering as it is, KC does not want to make the wrong impression either.

Frank gives to the local little league, girl scouts, and most of the school functions. He may not attend church, yet he is a good man. Wanting to direct the information to more useful topics, KC attempts nonchalant questions.

Frank mentioned that his family lives here locally also, KC states hoping to change the topic.

Oh my yes, the entire family lives in town. What a wonderful group of people. Every holiday we are invited to join their festivities. I usually have too many chores myself, but I know I am welcome. I enjoy the entire family very much.

Sally continues, The oldest sister does not come to town much, but she never really fit in with the rest of the family. She and Frank are still very close. Roxanne left young. She has her own family, kids and grandkids. I believe she lives in Alturas, right next to the border between California and Oregon. It is a beautiful drive northeast from here. Sally does not know that she just gave KC the best information she could get.

With the information she had come for, KC picks out a simple pair of boots identified for walking or hiking. She hastily pays for them; then heads out. She now has the next lead to move on in the case.

~

After a couple hours’ drive, KC found herself in another small town without an address or any information to know where to begin, so the obvious place to start is the local grocery store.

Hello how can I help you? the store clerk asks. Now KC had to use one of her excuses in order to find out what she really wanted to know.

I am actually looking for an old friend of the family. I was told she moved here after getting married. I don’t know her married name but her maiden name was Johnson, Roxanne Johnson.

Oh, we only have one Roxanne that I know of, Roxanne Kirkland. She lives on Spruce Street right behind the High School.

KC notices the clerk’s name is Alice. Thank you Alice, I bet that is just the Roxanne I am looking for. The high school is right on the highway, as I came into town, right? KC asks.

Oh ya, you will find her house by looking for a blue mini-van in the driveway. I think it is the third house on the right, Alice responds.

Thank you so much, I will be back for some food for the road after my visit with Roxanne, states KC, as she is leaving the store.

Now KC needs an entrance to Roxanne’s life; she must be ready. The house is a cute little ranch style home built in the 1960’s. There is a white picket fence around a well groomed yard. Knocking on the door, KC is ready for a little acting.

Hello, how may I help you? says the woman answering the door. She is as well groomed as her yard. There were laugh lines on her face. Peace had given her the chance to age beautifully.

Hi mam, you do not know me, but I have come to introduce myself. KC begins.

I am sorry, but I am not interested in buying anything. Please try the next house and have a nice day.

No, I am sorry for acting like a solicitor. My mom was in school with you many years ago, back in Susanville. She has asked me to look you up. You are Roxanne, maiden name is Johnson? KC asks. She tries to get another minute to convince the woman not to shut the door in her face.

Yes, that is my name. Who is your mother? I have not heard from anyone in Susanville since leaving there, besides my brother Frank. Roxanne replies.

Perfect KC thinks, that is exactly who I wanted her to mention. Oh, her name is Mary. Mary Smith is my mom. She did not live in Susanville long, but says she always remembered you. She wanted me to stop in to say hi. KC lied, but for good reason.

Sad but true, in her line of work there are times that call for a lie or two in order to get honest responses. To break her client’s confidentiality and give the true reason for the visit is not possible. The client requested specifically that the children, if found, not be told why she is trying to locate them until she is ready.

Well now, Mary Smith, let me see if I can remember a Mary….what grade were we in? Roxanne asks.

Oh my, she did not tell me that, but if I remember right it would have been approximately third grade when you met. Does that sound right? KC is winging it, but hoping to be invited into the house.

Third grade, wow I hate to be rude since I seem to have made an impression on your mother, but I cannot honestly remember her. Please call me Rox. Roxanne seems embarrassed but also honest, that is good. Her honesty may make this part of the job easier.

Oh, don’t worry about remembering her. I was told ma was a wallflower up until high school. That is probably why she didn’t make an impression on you. She has many stories of you though. I am supposed to check-in on your well-being. KC is trying to give her an innocent young look. She uses the adoring eyes. She finds that at forty years old, that particular façade is harder and harder to muster up.

My dear, here I am leaving you on the front door step, please forgive my thoughtlessness. Come in, please have refreshments with me. I can round up some sandwiches. I also have juice or if you prefer a glass of sherry. Roxanne, very comfortable with entertaining, went straight to preparing a snack and drink for her and her guest. Humming to herself, Roxanne thinks it is a compliment to have this visit. It is also very pleasant to meet this young lady.

So, may I ask your name, daughter of Mary? Roxanne asks, while laughing at the oversight.

Katherine, but most people just call me KC.

KC, where is your mother now? Roxanne is about to dive into a million questions. KC could feel it, so she tried to change the subject quickly.

Mumsy is doing great. She is enjoying this fall weather in Florida, where it is still hot. KC replied. She quickly asks if Roxanne has any children. Her experience has taught her that parents love to talk about their children. Moms especially will start from pregnancy to current times given the chance. All it took is to act interested in each mundane detail.

We have five beautiful children, seven grandchildren. Roxanne then begins the stories that KC had hoped to begin. She will obtain a lot about the kind of mom Roxanne is by the stories she shares. Some moms will remember every weakness in their child, while others will only speak of their children’s accomplishments.

In the middle there is the mom who is truly proud of exactly who their child is. This mom is able to be honest, as well as proud, about both strengths and weakness of the child. She usually focuses on the enjoyment of sharing the experience of their life together.

After many hours of easy visiting with KC, Roxanne realizes it is late. Her husband will be home any minute. Please excuse me for having to rush some supper for Jack before he gets home. You are welcome to eat with us, Roxanne offers genuinely.

Thank you very much for the offer, but I must get a room, check in with the office and call my significant other before I shower. It has been a long drive so far. I could use some rest. If you are willing, I would love to visit with you more. Can I stop by tomorrow before leaving town? KC requests, as she prepares to leave.

Heavens yes, you can stop by anytime. I really enjoyed our time together. You rest tonight. I will have breakfast ready in the morning, what time are you up and around? 9:00 am work for you? Roxanne offers.

That would be lovely, you have a date. KC is thankful for the offer of a home cooked meal. Can you recommend a good hotel?

Well there is not much to choose from, except the Road House, the bed and breakfast on Fourth Street, Roxanne suggests. Tell Erma May that I sent you. She will give you a good deal. In the morning don’t let her talk you into their great breakfast. It is true. She has the best morning meal in town.

KC quickly jumps on the chance to treat Roxanne to the morning meal. Why don’t you meet me there? We can eat the best morning meal in town together. I will buy.

Actually that sounds splendid, but it is on me. See you in the morning, Roxanne agrees.

KC jumps in her Jeep. She heads to the market to pick up some snacks, then on to the Road House. Upon entering the Road House, KC is amazed by the old time feel in the atmosphere. This transformation into another world took her breath away momentarily. The carpets, drapes, and clap board interior looked as if they were antiques. She was inclined to believe that they were authentic antiques. All of the room is decorated. It feels like the early nineteenth century, every detail, including the lamps, wood work, and old spittoon, round off the overall characteristics. It feels like walking back in time. You would believe you were on the screen of an old western movie.

How may I help you? asks a very plump, yet beautiful woman. Her warm smile is enough to bring comfort to the weary traveler immediately. I am Aunty Erma. We have meals, drinks, baths and rooms. What pleasure can I offer you? She says so jolly, she glows.

Wow Aunty Erma, I guess I am in need of all of the above. Roxanne sent me to you, but did not warn me of the charming atmosphere, only the incredible meals, KC is relaxed already. For the first time KC realizes she is hungry. She is ready to eat.

Roxanne is a dear. Erma offers her elbow to KC, So we should bring you to the dinner room right away. Then we can get your bath and room situated. The dinner tonight is a simple roast beef, mashed potatoes, green beans, salad, soup, and garlic bread, homemade of course. Dinner also includes a drink, what can I get you to start with? Erma now truly feels like an Aunt. KC is thankful to have been sent to her care.

I would love a cup of hot chocolate, if you have it? If not, a cup of hot tea would warm my bones, giggling KC replies.

You must have heard of my specialty coco? Well it lives up to the rumor. I will be right out with your soup, salad and bread. Just sit here my dear. Get comfortable, your food will be right out. Aunty directs KC to a fluffy carpeted booth, which feels as if she were sitting on pillows made for a queen. It seems funny to KC that Aunty Erma told her to get comfortable, she could not imagine anyone walking into this establishment without instantly being comforted.

After eating more than anyone should in one sitting, KC roams to her room half asleep with her to go box of left-overs that Erma insisted she take with her. The room is as charming as the entrance, stairs, and dining hall. She feels as if she is on set in that old western movie. The cowboy with the white hat should be waiting for her just on the other side of the door.

Barely aware of anything, KC goes straight to bed. No bathroom routine or worry is in her thoughts tonight, only rest. Her call to a significant other would only have been to check on her puppy. KC’s sister is watching her puppy for her while she is on this trip. Little Joy is not old enough to go on trips yet, but soon she will get to venture with KC everywhere.

Sleep comes before she remembers hitting the pillow, restful sleep without any nightmares or worries subconsciously interrupting. When KC’s alarm goes off at 5:30 am she does not wake. This is amazing! In the three years of working in one town or another, always in strange beds, it is the first time she is not awake before the alarm goes off. The dreams early this morning are of soft light, soft eyes and loving soft touches.

She knows these eyes from somewhere, yet at this moment she is melting in them. His hands are caressing her neck and arms… Gasping she realizes the pleasure that is reaching all the way to her warm spot… With each slow kneading, a surge