What Mattered Most: Volume Two

By Jerry Speight

Brandon is the only child of Shelly and Rick Seger, a prosperous couple, coping with an abundance of material possessions, a troubled marriage, conflicting career goals, and contrasting parenting philosophies. Lee Kyle lives with his older sister and single-parent mother Louise Kyle, who struggles to provide lifes basics for her family. The two boys meet when Louise moves her family into Brandons Owensboro, Kentucky, neighborhood. Although coming from vastly different backgrounds, the two boys are instantly drawn together, finding balance, comfort, and support in a friendship that sustains them in the present and the future.

What Mattered Most is an adult fiction novel inviting the reader to experience and hopefully identify with the unique and rare relationship of these two young men and their interactions with family, friends, and lovers. The story presents a parallel evolution of their lives as they adapt to parental influences, high school experiences, owning high-performance cars, acquiring girlfriends, discovering sexuality, and learning the effects of their choices on their future. The poetry and music of each era is carefully woven into the story to support and enhance the unfolding events and life experiences of the characters.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Dec 12, 2014
• ISBN: 9781496955845

Jerry Speight

Jerry Brooks Speight holds bachelor of science and master’s degrees from Murray State University and a master of fine arts degree from the University of Memphis. His teaching career started in Jasper, Indiana, where he taught elementary, middle, and high school art. He also has taught at Somerset Community College in Somerset, Kentucky, Brescia University in Owensboro, Kentucky, and the University of Kentucky in Lexington. He is presently professor of art at Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky, and a full-time practicing artist who produces and exhibits realistic watercolors and sprayed automobile lacquer assemblage paintings on metal Alucobond surfaces. He is a published nonfiction writer. What Mattered Most is his first fiction project.

Book preview

WHAT MATTERED MOST

VOLUME TWO

By

Jerry Speight

56871.png

AuthorHouse™

1663 Liberty Drive

Bloomington, IN 47403

www.authorhouse.com

Phone: [phone]

© 2014 Jerry Speight. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse   12/04/2014

ISBN: 978-1-4969-5584-5 (e)

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.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

A Note To My Readers

What Mattered Most

Part Seven    The Times They Are A Changin’ 1986

June 7, 1986

Thursday June 12th.

June 21

Thursday Morning, 8:00 a.m.

Friday Morning, 8:30

Friday July 4, 1984

Friday Evening, 8:00 p.m.

Sunday July 6, l986

Monday July 7

Tuesday July 8, 1986

Thursday July 10, l986

Friday night, July 11, l986

Saturday

Part Eight    Fortunate Son 1986

Sunday August 10, 1986

Part Nine    Who’ll Stop The Rain 1988

December 22, 1988

Friday Evening April 1, 7:00 1989

Part Ten    Boy In A Bubble 1988

Friday April 8, 6:00 p.m. l988

Saturday April 10, 1988

Sunday April 11, 9:30 a.m. l988

Thursday April 28, 1988

Friday September 5, 3:30 p.m. l988.

Saturday September 6, 11:00 p.m.

Sunday September 7, l988

Thursday September 11, 7:30 p.m. 1988

Tuesday December 1, 1988

Part Eleven    In My Life 1989

Friday January 3, l989

Saturday January 4

Friday January 31

Sunday February 6, 12:30 p.m.

Friday February 7, 2:30 p.m.

Friday March 13

Sunday March 15.

Monday March 17

Part Twelve    Call It A Loan 1989

April 1

Friday April 3, 8 a.m.

Part Thirteen    For You 1989

Saturday May 17, 1989

8:00 p.m.

Sunday May 18

Part Fourteen    Wind Beneath My Wings 1991

April 1991, Eagle Gallery, Murray State University

May

Saturday June 18

Part Fifteen    Completely 1991

Saturday Morning

Montgomery, Alabama

Part Sixteen    What Mattered Most 1992

7:00 a.m. Friday May 1992

Sunday

About the Author

This work is dedicated to the one whose love made it all possible.

Sonja June Speight

1942-2000

You Were Loved By Someone

Touched By Someone

Held By Someone

Meant Something To Someone

—Diane Warren (The Preacher’s Wife Soundtrack)

A Note To My Readers

I received the idea for What Mattered Most many years ago and actually constructed an outline with good intentions of starting the manuscript. Like Chevy Chase in the movie, Funny Farm, I let everything keep me from writing my first fiction novel. Being a husband, father, teacher, artist, and non-fiction writer came first. I finally took off for a year and began the first draft. I did not know how the story would end and wrote most of it when it came to me while running the back roads in Calloway County. Ideas like having the two main characters being interracial never occurred until later in the writing process. As the story evolved and unfolded even to me, I was not aware how the physical length of my computer copy would translate during publishing. I had the manuscript professionally rewritten twice. The first time there was blood on every page and my ego became bruised until I realized the changes were valid. Because of the size of the final manuscript and the nature of the story, the publisher has requested that we present you with one book instead of two, labeled Volume One and Volume Two. I hope you enjoy reading the book as much as I enjoyed the writing process.

—Jerry

WHAT MATTERED MOST

List of Characters

Brandon Seger and His Immediate Family:

Brandon Seger - Son of Rick and Shelly Seger (High School Student)

Shelly Dunn Seger - Brandon’s mother (Interior Decorator)

Rick Seger - Brandon’s father (Used Car Dealer)

Richard Seger - Rick’s father (Used Car Dealer)

Marie Seger - Rick’s mother (Housewife)

Vivian Dunn - Brandon’s Grandmother (Executive Secretary At Texas Gas)

Virginia Dunn Stone - Shelly’s sister (Housewife)

Howard Stone - Virginia Dunn Stone’s Husband (Vice President Owensboro National)

Anne Marie and Michelle Stone - Fraternal twins of Virginia and Howard Stone (High School Students)

Lee Kyle and His Immediate Family:

Lee Kyle - Best friend of Brandon Seger (High School Student)

Louise Kyle - Lee Kyle’s mother and Shelly Seger’s best friend (Manager Of Executive Inn Dining Room)

Caroline Kyle - Lee’s sister (Student)

Shavonda Atkinson and Her Immediate Family:

Shavonda Atkinson - Brandon Seger’s African American girlfriend (High School Student)

Anazet Atkinson - Shavonda’s mother (Brescia College Alumni Secretary)

Van Atkinson - Shavonda’s father (Car Salesperson at Don Moore Chevrolet)

Angie Nelson and Her Immediate Family:

Angie Nelson - Lee Kyle’s Girlfriend and Shavonda Atkinson’s best friend (High School Student)

Marlene Nelson - Angie’s Mother (Waitress)

Carl Nelson - Angie’s Father (Owensboro City Police Officer)

Additional Characters:

Dr. Tom Waters - Marriage Counselor for Shelly and Rick Seger

Dion Waters - Dr. Tom Waters’ wife

Traci Waters - Dr. Waters’ teenage daughter

Julie Fletcher - Dr. Water’s secretary

Sandra Moore - Girlfriend of Rick Seger

Donna - Hairdresser in Nashville, Tennessee

Stacey Berry - Shelly Seger’s college roommate at Murray State in 1968.

Jenny Harwood - Shelly Seger’s college friend

Ron Wood - Rick Seger’s college roommate at Murray State in 1968

Hal Todd and Del Hill - Clean up boys for Rick Seger’s used car lot, Seger’s Pre-Owned Motor Cars

Kacey Brandon - Art Major at Murray State

Jeremy Covey - Art Major at Murray State

Daniel Layton - Murray State Art Professor

Benita Howlett and Francis Daniel - Brandon Seger’s high school art teachers

Daniel Thomas - Apollo High track coach

Wendi, Alan, Blain, Matt, and Jimmy - Apollo High Students

Part Seven

The Times They Are A Changin’

1986

June 7, 1986

BRANDON, DID you remember to pack your bedding? Shelly called from the garage door. She watched Shavonda and Brandon packing the Cutlass.

Yes mother, I’ve got everything the workshop brochure calls for.

Well, I guess we’re ready, Shelly said as she got into the Cutlass.

Brandon got in the passenger side and closed his door.

Shavonda stood beside the car. I wish I was going along for the ride.

Maybe you can go with me to pick him up. I just wanted us to spend some time together. I hardly see him since he started working for Mr. Wonderful. We’re going by his grandparents and then spend the night in Murray. I haven’t seen the campus since 1970.

Well, I’ll see you in about a week Shavonda.

Can I get a goodbye kiss? Shavonda stuck her head inside the car and kissed Brandon on the cheek. Shelly looked away. I’ll miss you this week. Will you call me?

I promise I’ll call, said Brandon.

Oh wait, I forgot something, Shavonda said. She ran to her car, got something out of the glove box and ran back to Brandon’s window. It’s a picture I made for you to take with you and put beside your bed to warn the girls you’re taken.

It’s beautiful Shavonda, He looked at the picture, she was at the edge of a lake kneeling in sand wearing a bright yellow bikini. The sun was over her right shoulder, her knees were wide apart, and both hands were on her legs. She was looking to her left away from the camera. It was an erotic pose, especially with her knees apart showing the sand area between them.

Who took this? Brandon asked.

Angie. She helped me with the outfit and we found a deserted spot along the sand bar across the bridge. I had it made especially for your trip.

Brandon we better be going.

Bye Shavonda—and thanks for the picture.

Shelly started the car and backed out of the drive. They waved at Shavonda as Shelly drove off down the street. I hope you don’t mind that I told her she couldn’t come with us.

I don’t mind Mom. I like the idea of spending the night and looking around the campus with you.

I want to show you Rick’s old place, my dorm, and our married housing apartment. I have reservations at the Holiday Inn for tonight. I thought we’d go to the Big Apple where your dad took me on our first date. We can get up early Sunday morning and run the route I ran every morning around campus. Your registration time is from l:00 to 3:00 at the Curris Center. I haven’t seen that either except in the Alumni News Rick gets. I can’t believe we’ve been so busy these 16 years that we haven’t participated in any of the Alumni functions other than those in Owensboro.

Mom you’re doing it again.

What?

Talking like you’re still married to Dad.

Brandon, I’ll always be married to your dad. Our divorce or my marriage to anyone else will never change that. Every time I look at you I see him.

You think you and Dan will ever marry?

I’m not interested in marrying anyone right now.

Do you think Dan’s getting serious? You’re either in Evansville or he’s in Owensboro all the time now. He calls every night.

Shelly looked at Brandon. Nosy Rosie, the next thing you’re going to ask is am I sleeping with him.

Well are you?

"B-r-a-n-d-o-n. Seger!"

Well you brought it up. Besides, Shavonda and Angie think you are.

They can just mind their own business. By the way, this is a good time for us to have a mother-son talk since I’ve got you trapped in this car for three hours.

Oh no, please not a mother and son talk. Couldn’t we just listen to the radio?

Has your dad talked to you about safe sex?

His sex life?

No silly. She blushed, gripping the wheel with both hands and staring straight out the windshield at the road. Brandy, I really like Shavonda, but I think she might be just a little too forward. I would have never dreamed of kissing Rick in front of his parents while we were dating.

Mom it was too late by then—as I understand, I was already in the oven.

Well - ah - true, but - I - ah never kissed him in front of them before we got married.

They already knew you guys had done more than just kiss.

Okay smartie—let’s start all over and I’ll just ask you this, Shelly took a deep breath. Are you and Shavonda sexually active?

N-o Mom, give me a break, Brandon said and scooted down in the seat crossing his arms over his chest.

Well, ah - Shavonda’s cute, no, Shavonda’s beautiful and v-e-r-y outspoken, I mean forward in her expression of affection for you. I just want to ask you to wait about sex until after you’re married.

Who said I’m marrying Shavonda Atkinson?

I mean any girl, not just Shavonda. I just think you’re too young to be going steady and only seeing Shavonda. You two are missing so much by not dating others.

Did you regret not dating other guys?

Let’s not talk about me, let’s talk about you.

Mom, I’m not sleeping with Shavonda, now are you satisfied or disappointed?

If you need to talk about something will you promise you will ask me?

Would it be all right for me to be sexually active before I married?

That has nothing to do with you smarty pants, Shelly said and became more uncomfortable. It’s just that your dad and I want you to go to college. Your granddad is setting aside money for you to go anywhere you want.

I think I want to go to Brescia so that I can keep my job at the lot. They’ve got a good art department too.

Wouldn’t you rather go to Murray and be close to your grandparents. They’d like you to live with them.

I think I’d like to try Brescia for one year.

What’s Shavonda going to do after she graduates?

She said if I went to college she would too. I really don’t think she knows what she wants.

I think I know what she wants and she’ll do anything to get it.

I’ll make a deal with you my beautiful and sexy mom, if you won’t ask me anything else about my love life I won’t ask you anything else.

Whatever.

Now can we talk about something else?

Has your dad let you drive that car yet?

Lee and I drove it to lunch three times if you’re asking about the new Corvette.

I’m surprised he let anyone in that car but his bleached blonde cheap squeeze.

Brandon looked at Shelly and grinned, They had gone to the Evansville Auction.

Well what they don’t know won’t hurt them, Shelly said with a wink.

WOW, THIS has really changed, Shelly said as she drove into Murray on Highway 641 North.

Mom, it’s only been 16 years.

That football stadium wasn’t there or this shopping center. There’s a Kroger, a Wal-Mart, and all these fast food places are new. The old Shell station has been removed, that bank wasn’t there, and—

It all looked dark to me way back in 1969 when I was riding around this town.

Very funny Mr. Comedian. Brandon, the campus is pretty much a big rectangle. We’ll turn here on Olive Boulevard and I’ll show you my old dorm. Oh, that Captain D’s wasn’t there, Shelly said turning right onto Olive. The houses are about the same as I remember. Right here the street widens into the most beautiful boulevard. They drove west on a tree lined street with a grass median in the center. The houses were neat and the yards well maintained.

Brandon, over there on the left is your dad’s old apartment and here on the right is Woods Hall, my old dorm. It sure looks the same. That’s Ordway and those are new buildings there. Shelly turned left to come back down the other side of the boulevard, If this was regular session, cars and students would be everywhere. Oh look the old Hut has been changed into a day care, how sad.

She started back East, On our first date I was standing over there looking out that glass door waiting for your dad. He pulled around this corner in his black 1964 GTO Convertible and parked out front so everyone could see him strut. Shelly turned the corner heading back west again and pulled back in front of Woods Hall. He had the top down and peeled off down this street. We turned left up here on Fifteenth and drove to Main. Shelly continued backtracking the route she and Rick had made in 1969 as she left the campus and headed south. Right here is the Holiday Inn where we’ll be staying. She pulled under the roof and went in to get their room key.

I never stayed here, but Granddad and Grandmother Seger did when they visited us, Shelly continued as she pulled the car around to their room. We can sit around the pool until the sun goes down and then get a shower and head to the Big Apple. Get my bag and whatever you need from the trunk and I’ll unlock the door.

Brandon got Shelly’s bag from the car and his suitcase. She was waiting for him when he entered the room. It’s about like I remembered. They might have remodeled once in sixteen years. There’s only three motels in town. Murray isn’t wet and doesn’t have an Interstate so it doesn’t change much.

Shelly was hanging up her clothes and Brandon was flipping through the channels when the phone rang and Brandon reached for the receiver, Hello.

Hi sugar.

Hi Shavonda, we just walked into the room, Brandon said as he looked to see what kind of reaction his mom would have. She made a face and a mock kissy, kissy sound.

Did you have a good trip?

Yeah, we had a good time. We stopped in Paducah and saw my grandmother and granddad. Did Mom tell you where we were staying?

I asked, but didn’t tell her I would call.

Mom’s been busy taking me down memory lane. I told her I didn’t remember any of this I was s-o-o young at the time.

Shhhhh Brandon, she doesn’t know that, Shelly whispered from the other side of the room.

What are you fixing to do? Shavonda asked.

We’re going to put on our bathing suits and sit around the pool. It’s real pretty, but I bet the water is too cold to swim.

Do you miss me as much as I miss you?

What are you doing tonight? he asked.

I’m going to the movie with Angie and Lee and watch them swoon all over each other while I fantasize about being with you. Will you call me tomorrow night?

I don’t know about the phone situation, but I probably will.

Just call collect if you have to.

I’ve got a calling card.

I better get off before I get in trouble with Mom. I love you.

Yeah, me too. Bye.

Told you, told you, Shelly said. You haven’t been gone three hours and she’s already calling. Brandon that’s definitely a sign of a dominant personality.

I can handle it Mom.

Great.

What?

You sounded just like your dad.

SHELLY AND Brandon layed out around the pool. She finished reading Walking After Midnight, Brandon dozed. The book ended strangely, it gave her the shivers. The last portion contained two short chapters of Karen Robard’s newest manuscript. Shelly made a mental note to ask at the mall bookstore when it would be released. When the sun dropped behind the motel they went back to the room and got their showers. Brandon took his shower first and put on his summer uniform, a white running shirt, red tennis shorts, and Saucony running shoes. He watched a stock car race until Shelly came out of the shower running a brush through her long wet black hair.

Do I meet your approval Mr. Seger? Shelly asked as she modeled her white cropped, cable cardigan which ended just above her naval to show her tanned stomach, white stretch jeans, and white thong sandals.

Dang Mom, you’ll have all the guys choking on their food. You look like a college student.

Then maybe people will think we’re on a date because you look like a handsome college student too.

They checked the room, locked the door, and went outside to the car.

You want to take the t-tops out? Shelly asked.

Do you mind if the wind blows your hair?

The last time I was there it was windblown, so it might as well be again.

Brandon took out the glass tops, put them in their cloth jackets then carefully placed them in the trunk.

Let’s hit the road date, Shelly said.

She backed away from the motel and pulled out to 641 South. She turned right heading toward the Tennessee border and the four clubs frequented by the college crowd. The night your dad and I came here I think I had on a white miniskirt. I don’t remember what was on the radio, no I think he had an eight track in the G.T.O. He was probably playing Bob Dylan. Then she said, Over there on the left is Howard Brandon’s home. Rick buys cars from him.

I know him Mom, you all took me to his Car Museum in Nashville. He also collects antique airplanes and farm machinery. He’s a sharp guy!

Shelly drove on to the small town of Hazel. That’s the old service station where I had to use the bathroom. It’s been completely remodeled! The town looks about as I remembered, there’s just more antique shops.

Here’s the state line where the road gets a little better, Shelly said pointing to the ‘Welcome To Tennessee’ sign. We’re only a few miles from the clubs where the college students go to get beer. This is a dangerous two-lane road. It’s too bad Murray isn’t wet so students would stay in town to have dinner, a beer and hear some live music. Brandon, I noticed at the motel there was a flyer on the window advertising The Tripping Lizards at the Apple. Have you ever heard of them?

Nope I don’t think I have. They’re probably a local band or they might be out of Nashville.

I don’t remember that bar on the left and the buildings on the right have changed too. The Big Apple should be just up ahead on the left. Yes, there it is and it looks just as I remembered it.

Shelly put on her left turn signal and entered the gravel parking lot. The building was painted a deep red. The parking lot on the left side of the building had been expanded, but the front and right side parking was the same. Shelly pulled around the front and parked on the right side just about in the same spot Rick had backed the G.T.O. into that night. Right here was where your dad parked the car. It was much more crowded then because school was in session.

They got out of the Cutlass and entered the front door which led them into a heat trap and then the main door. As Shelly and Brandon opened the door they saw that most of the tables were filled with students or townspeople.

Two for dinner and the band? a nice looking young man asked Shelly.

Yes please.

They followed the host to the table and were immediately asked by a waitress what they would like to drink.

I’ll have a Corona with a lime and Brandon will have a Diet Coke.

Will Pepsi be all right?

Sure, that’s fine, Brandon answered.

Shelly looked around the bar and tried to compare what she was seeing with her memories from 16 years earlier. The tables and chairs are new and the bar has been changed. I can’t get over how spotless the place is now.

The waitress sat the drinks down on their table. What can I get you folks to eat?

What would you recommend? I hate to admit it, but I haven’t been here since I was in school 16 years ago. I brought my son here tonight to show him where his mother went on her first date way back in 1969.

We’re glad you decided to try it again. Mexican food is our specialty and I recommend the bean roll.

We’ll have two. Ma’am, who owns the Big Apple now? When I was here it was owned by an old Black gentleman they called Big Apple Bill.

Robert and Skip bought the bar from Bill’s family and have been improving it ever since. I hope you can stay for the band, they’re fantastic.

We plan to.

I’ll get your food out just as soon as it’s ready.

We sat right over there by that post. It was so crowded and I was r-e-a-l nervous. I ordered a Coke or something non-alcoholic, but your dad made me drink two beers.

He made you Mom or you chose to?

You’re right, I drank two beers. Shelly continued telling her story looking around the room as if everything she was seeing was jogging her memory. Your dad knew everybody, especially the girls. So before long I had to go to the bathroom so I went in the door I was told lead to the bathroom only to find I was outside and facing an outhouse that men and women used at the same time. I didn’t go and when I got back inside your dad and some girl were having an argument. She was one of his old girlfriends. She wasn’t happy to see him out with me. Evidently he canceled their date to be with me. Your dad got pretty drunk and then we finally left. I was about to pee all over myself. Then he made me get behind the wheel while he peed in front of me—I mean behind the car, but I could hear what he was doing. By then I was so disgusted with him that I wanted to strangle this good-looking egotistical gigolo. I had never driven anything but a VW so I had trouble taking off, shifting, and steering that high performance car. Just as I was about to take off, his old girlfriend threw a beer bottle at us. It went over your dad’s car and then through the window of the car we were parked next to. I tore out spewing gravel and grinding gears. Down the road in front of that other club I was pulled over by a Tennessee Deputy Sheriff’s car. I started crying and he let me go.

Just because you were a good looking girl.

No silly, he got a call and had to leave. I drove on to Hazel to that gas station and used a horribly smelly bathroom.

Two bean rolls, the waitress interrupted. Can I get you folks another Corona and Diet Pepsi?

Please, thank you, Brandon said.

Boy this place is packed, He looked around, all the tables were filled, the bar full, and people standing waiting for a seat.

I’m going to the bathroom before the band starts. I want to see how clean it is, Shelly said. She walked to the same door she had gone through in 1969 only to find separate doors for Men’s and Women’s bathrooms. She went into the Women’s and was surprised to find two stalls, a sink, and mirror. The room and facilities were spotless and smelled of fresh paint. After washing her hands and checking her hair she went back out to their table.

The band started testing their instruments and microphones. The lead singer was a tall man with long blond hair. Good evening. On behalf of the Tripping Lizards, I would like to welcome you to the Big Apple. Are you ready to rock and roll?

The audience shouted their approval and the five man band started to shaking the building with an energetic sound.

When Rick and I came they had a disk jockey, she shouted between her hands toward Brandon.

Brandon shouted back, This band’s really good. I especially like the guitar player’s style.

Tripping Lizard played through their first set with a passion that made the crowd sing and dance. Shelly and Brandon ordered cups of coffee after they finished their drinks and meal and just before the band took a break.

Nice to have you all here tonight, the lead singer said to them as he walked past their table. My name’s Jim and I can tell you two are music lovers the way you move to the music.

Thank you Jim. You’ve got a great band, Shelly said.

We’re going to start our second set in a few minutes. Get up and dance some with the crowd.

We’ll just sit here and watch, Shelly said.

Then just as the band started their second set a tall handsome college student came over to their table and asked Brandon, Would you mind if I asked your date to dance?

Brandon grinned, You can ask her to dance.

Oh, I don’t think I should, but thank you for asking, Shelly said to the young man.

Go on, you enjoy dancing and you probably haven’t in months, Brandon said grinning.

Well all right, but I hope I don’t step on your toes, she said.

They danced through the next two songs.

Brandon watched his mom dance with a guy who was probably 15 years younger than she was. She looked like she could still be in college. He thought she was the prettiest girl in the place. Several girls had been dancing together and one of them came over to Brandon and asked, Would you like to dance?

Sure, I’d be glad to, Brandon said as he followed her to the crowded and tiny dance spot.

Are you here in school this summer?

Brandon shouted back, I’m here for a workshop."

Who’s the lady you’re with?

That lady is my mother.

God she’s beautiful, the girl shouted back.

I know, Brandon replied.

The song ended and everyone went back to their tables.

Boy, you were really shaking it Mom.

Not too bad for a senior citizen huh? You looked pretty good with that little brunette yourself. She didn’t punch you in the eye with those big boobs did she?

Did that guy ask you if you were married?

He did and I told him I was married to you. He said he had already asked our waitress who I was and knew I was your mother.

Are you in love Mom? Brandon teased.

He’s a lot nicer than the last man I was here with, Shelly said with a wink.

One of the singers sang a few songs by himself while the rest of the band took a break. After a beautiful version of Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young’s ‘Ohio,’ Shelly suddenly said, I’m ready to go if you are.

Brandon yawned and said, The song shook up some brain cells huh?

You might say that.

I’m ready for some sleep, besides I’m afraid that little brunette will ask me to dance again.

And I’m afraid Steve will ask this old lady to dance again.

O-h, you’re now on a first name basis. Love springs eternal at the Big Apple.

Yeah, right. Shelly put down a $5 dollar tip and went to the bar to pay the tab. They then weaved their way through the crowd to the door.

Thanks for coming folks, the manager said as they passed through the door.

Shelly walked through the outside door and turned left to head across the white gravel parking lot to the Cutlass.

I’m surprised anything could grow in that spot right there, Shelly said pointing to an area next where she had parked.

Why Mom?

That’s where your dad peed over 16 years ago. I couldn’t believe he would do that on our first date. I decided it would be our last if I ever got home.

Is that the end of the story?

Probably not.

She started the Cutlass and headed north back toward Murray. When they passed the Kat Man Do Club Shelly said absentmindedly, I wonder if he’s retired now?

Who?

That Deputy Sheriff that gave me such a hard time. He made me cry.

Mom you better take Dylan’s advice.

What’s that?

He that gets hurt will be he who gets stalled.

That’s from ‘The Times They Are A-Changing.’ Dylan sang that song in a concert the night John Kennedy died. He was inspired by Scottish and Irish ballads that went along well with the Civil Rights Movement. Your dad and I listened to that album until we wore it out and had to get another.

You’re not taking his advice.

The black highway dropped off sharply into a flat valley just outside Murray. Shelly pulled the turn signal level up to activate the bright lights. When we came through here that September it was twilight and about 85 degrees. Rick had the top down and you could smell hay and tobacco, not just the honeysuckles like we smell tonight. He shifted that thing and made those exhausts rumble, then looked at me to see if I was impressed. I was impressed and scared to death. I couldn’t believe that gorgeous outrageous college senior had asked me out. I was all legs, skinny, shy and naive.

Lee and I were looking through your picture box the other night and found one of Dad standing in front of the G.T.O. He looked just like James Dean.

He’s better looking than Dean, Shelly said. We drove that car his senior year and until you were born in June. When I handed you to him he cried. That’s the only time I’ve seen him take down his guard. Well, back to the question about the car. Granddad Seger bought us a new 1969 gray four-door Cadillac so I could get you and all your stuff in and out easier. Rick hated the car so he always drove the G.T.O. home from the lot. Granddad probably got Mom to pull some strings to get your dad that job at Texas Gas. The last time I saw the G.T.O. it was under a car cover in the very back bay of the shop. When we rolled into Owensboro that September pulling our little U-haul behind that Cadillac, my mother thought I had really married well. Granddad had a white one just like it, so we made quite an impression with the people on Tampa Drive where we rented a National Prefab home. That was the first time I’ve ever experienced prejudice. The neighbors wouldn’t speak to us for the first few days. I kept saying hello and finally I took a pie over across the street. We were talking and Diane finally asked me why we were moving into a working class neighborhood when we were so wealthy. I told her we didn’t have anything and that the cars belonged to Rick’s dad who was a car dealer. Once she understood, we became best friends and she was your babysitter until we moved to Royal.

Why didn’t Dad stay and work for Granddad?

I never asked, but I don’t think Granddad wanted him to work that hard. Being a car dealer is hard work with long hours and a lot of time away from home. It’s hard on a marriage and I think Granddad Seger knew there might be problems with an already shaky marriage.

Don’t miss the turn for the motel.

Shelly turned left into the parking lot and pulled up to the front of their room.

Did you have a good time tonight traveling down my memory lane?

I had a ball traveling down your memory lane.

Liar, liar, pants on fire. Shelly locked the Cutlass and unlocked the motel room door. They got ready for bed and then she sat down beside the phone and punched in her credit card number.

The phone rang. Sandra answered.

Sandra, I’m returning a call to Rick.

Then she heard Rick’s voice, Hi Rick, it’s Shelly.

I know who you are Shelly.

Yes thanks for asking, we had a good trip. Your mom and dad are fine and were excited about Brandon being at Murray State. Yes they hope he’ll go there instead of Brescia. Murray’s changed quite a bit since ’69. We drove around campus to see your old apartment and my dorm. We’re at the Holiday Inn, room 123. Yes, I took him to the Big Apple. You wouldn’t believe how it’s changed since you took me there on our first date. Yes, they even have modern bathrooms. No, it was a live band. You would have liked them. They’re called the Tripping Lizards. One of the singers, Scott McDougall, did the Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young song ‘Ohio,’ that gave me chill bumps. You remember we wore that album out. Shelly turned away so Brandon couldn’t see her face.

Yes, I’m still here. I just was trying to sneeze. We’re going to get up early and run the campus like I used to do before I started carrying Brandon.

He’s right here, you want to talk to him? Shelly handed the phone to Brandon.

Hi Dad.

Yeah,—Mom really took me down memory lane. I’ve said about three words for the last six hours. She’s done all the talking. Okay. I love you too. Bye Dad.

Wow, I’m jealous.

Of what?

I lived with him 16 years and he never told me he loved me.

He tells me all the time.

You’re kidding, Shelly exclaimed. You’re talking about the same Rick Seger I know?

He’s really been nice to me since I started working at the lot. Sandra has too.

She’s just being nice because she’s afraid of Rick kicking her big ass out of bed and away from the money.

Mom, you’re being nasty again.

She took my husband and ruined my marriage! Shelly said.

Mom, Dad was already gone when he met her, you know that.

I give up, Shelly said putting her hands in the air. He’s wonderful, she’s wonderful, I’m wonderful.

Brandon looked at his mom.

Shelly finally smiled saying, I know, I know, use your head and live in the present.

Good night Mom, Brandon said as he pulled the covers up over him.

Shelly turned out the light. Do me a favor and dream about that little brunette and the hundreds like her all over this campus that would love to go out with you.

From the dark Shelly heard, I’ll make you a deal Mom, you stop advising me about my love life and I’ll leave you alone about Dad.

Deal.

SHELLY WAS awake before the wake-up call arrived. She had been thinking about how fast the 16 years had gone. It was like her life started in 1969 in Murray and the line went from there to her divorce where the line stopped. Where would the line go from there? She suddenly realized it was t-o-t-a-l-l-y up to her. Rick wasn’t going to tell her what to do anymore; he didn’t want to and he didn’t care. She sure wasn’t going to listen to her mother or sister. Granddad and Grandmother Seger were more concerned about Rick and Brandon. Tom Waters was helpful, but he wouldn’t tell her what to do. She was in her thirties and there was no one to tell her what to do. It was up to her to decide and choose. She was afraid that Dan was getting very serious and she certainly didn’t want to get involved seriously with another man.

Shelly hopped up, brushed her hair and teeth, put on her running clothes and shook Brandon. Sleepy head, I’m going to get a cup of coffee and a paper. I’ll be out around the pool reading and then I’ll come back in and use the bathroom. If you’re not ready, I’m going to make you run from the motel instead of driving to the campus.

Got it Mom, I’ll be ready, I promise, Brandon said sleepily as he pulled the cover over his head.

THE CAMPUS was deserted. Shelly parked on North Fourteenth Street next to Woods Hall. It was especially quiet because it was seven on Sunday morning. Shelly and Brandon did their stretches and warm-ups in front of Woods Hall. I always came out of this door and started down Olive Boulevard going east. Are you ready?

Lead the way.

I loved running under these trees, Shelly said. They started east at an easy pace. I was running by Mr. Wonderful’s apartment all the time and didn’t know it. He was probably always sleeping off a hangover and snuggling up to a girl this time of the morning, Shelly said glancing over at the two story apartment building.

They turned the corner on North Twelfth and headed south. This Captain D’s wasn’t here then, but McDonald’s was.

They turned the corner again and headed down West Main. The Dairy Queen looks the same, but the Burger Queen has changed to The Hungry Bear, whatever that is.

Mom, I was thinking, if we could see an old film of you running then, it would look just like you now. You’re still young and incredibly beautiful.

Thank you, you’ve made my day sir.

I mean it. You’ve taken care of your body and you look great. I was always proud when you came to school. All the kids thought you were so pretty.

Wow I’m feeling better with each compliment, don’t stop. Brandon I don’t remember that grocery over there and that tire store building used to be the Cadillac store. The old bowling alley hasn’t changed, but there was a service station here where this empty lot is. She looked on each side of the street as they ran.

This is Sparks Hall where the office of School Relations is for information if you decide to come to Murray. By the way, Granddad Seger asked me again if you would go to Murray or P.C.C. I told him you were interested in art so it would have to be Brescia or Murray. He told me not to tell you, but he would pay for everything if you would live with them or stay in the dorm at Murray.

This is the President’s home, called Oakhurst, Shelly said pointing to the two story Colonial red brick home surrounded by trees.

As they turned the corner at Main and North Sixteenth Shelly said, That was a grocery, but it looks like it’s closed now. Brandon, the more I think about it the more I would like you to attend Murray State. Do you think you might consider it?

I thought you wanted me to work with Dad and form a better relationship?

Shelly continued running. I think it might be good for you to get away.

Away from Dad, Sandra, or Shavonda?

Two of the above anyway.

As they neared the north end of the campus Shelly pointed to a complex of red brick buildings, That’s the Swann Building where I had an art class.

They turned the corner and headed down Chestnut past a baseball field and under an overpass. I didn’t notice yesterday, but they’ve built an overpass from the dorms to the inner campus. Boy that was sure needed. Oh look, they’ve closed North Fifteenth, and wow, that must be the Curris Center where you’ll register for the workshop this afternoon.

The tennis courts look the same, but that’s a new building across the street. Brandon back behind the football stadium is Married Housing where your dad and I lived the spring semester of 1970.

Did you go to school that second semester?

I did and I never got very big. I continued my running up until the doctor told me to just walk. Then your dad and I walked almost every night. He said I was the prettiest pregnant woman he had ever seen.

Dad said that?

I wish. The doctor told me that.

Was Dad happy about the pregnancy?

After he got over the shock of getting me pregnant and having to get married, he adjusted quite well. We were in Paducah every weekend or your grandparents were down here. Granddad insisted that I have you at Western Baptist so Grandmother Seger could be close. The delivery went fine and we had a wonderful baby boy who we all love very much.

Next they turned right onto South Twelfth. You all right big boy? I’m not going too fast for you am I? Shelly teased as she looked over at her son.

I’m just listening as you continue down memory lane Mom.

At Olive Boulevard they turned right and headed back toward the campus. The continuous shade felt good as they jogged under the line of oaks and up the concrete narrow sidewalk. Let’s switch over to the left side and walk for awhile to cool off, Shelly said as she looked back to make sure no cars were coming before they crossed.

When she reached the sidewalk Shelly slowed to a walk and Brandon did the same. Good run honey. We got all that second-hand cigarette smoke from last night out of our lungs.

Brandon noticed Shelly starring at a gray two-story apartment building on the left. They continued walking toward North Fifteenth where the Cutlass was parked.

Mom was that your apartment?

We never lived there. Like I told you yesterday, that was where your dad lived when I met him. He wanted us to live there, but Granddad Seger said he didn’t want me walking up and down the steep steps so I moved out of my dorm room at the end of the semester and your dad moved out of his beloved apartment.

Did you guys always have to do what Granddad said?

Pretty much, Shelly answered slowly while continuing to look at the apartment and remember the night Brandon was conceived and how she ran back to the dorm crying herself to sleep.

Mom let’s go, you act like your hypnotized. I want to get a shower and a good breakfast before we have to check out.

Coming honey, Shelly said as she came back to the present moment and walked with Brandon back to the car.

SHELLY AND Brandon joined the other high school workshop participants at the registration table in the Curris Center. Daniel Layton and Jennie Coleman, the workshop teachers, were greeting everyone.

Brandon, it’s good to see you again, Daniel Layton called out.

It’s good to see you too Mr. Layton.

Folks I’ve checked the list and I think everyone is here, Mr. Layton said.

The building you’re in right now is the Student Center. It was built in 1981 so it’s our newest building. Behind us is the bookstore where you can buy art supplies. Upstairs is a full sized movie theater, a ballroom, meeting rooms, and some motel type rooms. On this floor is the Post Office, snack bars, and cafeteria. On the floor below us is the recreation room, an art gallery, a tearoom, and a television and music lounge area. Jennie and I are going to walk you over to the Fine Arts Building to show you how to get to the drawing and painting labs in the morning. So follow us, we’ll give you a guided tour of this part of the campus.

The two teachers led the group out the glass double doors onto the Pedestrian Mall.

This was originally a city street that was closed for the university and made into a Pedestrian walkway, Mr. Layton explained.

Mr. Layton, I was in school here in 1969 and walked down this street, Shelly said.

It was still a street when I came here from Wisconsin in 1977. We’re going to head south to the Price Doyle Fine Arts Building which is that tall building ahead on the right. You walk over the overpass from your dorm and come down the mall to the Fine Arts building for class each day. He pointed out the Carr Health Building that houses an indoor pool, Waterfield Library, Graphic Arts, and the Fine Arts Complex. This complex houses Art, Music, Theater, and Radio/Television. Old Fine Arts which was built in 1945 is separated by New Fine Arts built in 1970 by an elevator shaft.

He led the group into the building and up to the fifth floor where they entered the drawing lab.

Everybody take a seat and we’ll explain how the week will go in regard to classes. Some of you or your parents may have some questions so please feel free to ask. Come to this room in the morning by 8. Half of you will be with me for drawing and the other half will be with Jennie for painting which is directly across the hall. At 11:30 we will take a lunch break until 1. Then we’ll switch groups and work until 4. Student counselors will work with you tonight, Monday night, and Wednesday night. They have events planned for you to keep you from getting bored in the big city of Murray. On Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6 to 8 we will have some special art presentations by the faculty. Any questions?

Mr. Layton, will they need any special art supplies? Shelly asked.

All art supplies were included in your fee.

If there are no more questions the university counselors will walk you back to your dorms and get you settled in for the night. Jennie and I will see you early in the morning.

Brandon, I’ll walk with you back to the dorm. I want to see your room, Shelly said.

The Student Counselors took the group down on the elevator and headed back to the Student Center and the overpass that led to the seven story Elizabeth Hall dorm. The girls were being housed on the first floor and the boys were on the second. Brandon and Shelly found Brandon’s room. The floor plan consisted of two double rooms separated by a bath that four workshop students would share.

Just like home, Brandon laughed and looked at the sparse college accommodations of bunk beds, two desks, and metal lamps.

A young man with shoulder length brown hair about Brandon’s height walked into the room. Well I guess I’m your roommate.

Brandon got up and said, Hi, I’m Brandon Seger from Owensboro, and this is my mom Shelly.

Hi I’m Jeremy Covey from Louisville. Nice to meet you Mrs. Seger. Any kin to Bob Seger?

No kin, but I sure wish we were.

Our room’s not too bad, Jeremy said. You want the top or bottom bunk?

Why don’t we flip for the bottom, Brandon suggested.

Jeremy pulled out a quarter and flipped it in the air. It landed in his right hand and he quickly flipped it over onto the back of his left hand while keeping it covered. Heads or tails Brandon?

Tails.

Jeremy uncovered the quarter to reveal the tail side of his coin. What’s it going to be, top or bottom?

Do you mind if I take the bottom since I’ve never slept on bunk beds before?

I like the top, Jeremy said as he threw his sleeping bag onto the top bunk.

Brandon I better get back on the road, Shelly said. Walk me back to the car. Nice to meet you Jeremy, take care of my only son.

He may have to take care of me Mrs. Seger, Jeremy laughed.

Shelly and Brandon started out the room and down the hall to the parking lot.

I like your roommate.

He seems real nice, I guess I lucked out. Some art students are weirdoes.

You mean like Annie at Apollo with the green hair?

She just does that to get attention.

Did you notice the cute girls in the group today?

Mom quit matchmaking. I promise I’ll take time to look.

Can you give me a hug out here in front of God and everybody?

Sure, Brandon said, giving her a big hug.

I love you. Have a great week.

I love you too Mom.

Shelly got into the Cutlass and started the car. Call me anytime you want.

I will Mom. Have a safe trip, Brandon waved as Shelly pulled away.

Brandon walked back to his room where Jeremy was busy putting his clothes away in the small closet.

How did you get here Jeremy?

I drove my car. It’s parked over in the stadium parking lot.

What high school are you going to in Louisville?

Dupont Manual. It’s a Magnet school with five art teachers.

Wow, I go to Apollo and we only have two.

Are you a junior?

I’ll be a junior in the fall.

If we decide to come back next year we can room together.

Cool. I’d like that.

AFTER AN evening of planned entertainment by the counselors, the boys went to bed early. Next morning they headed for the Art building. They were both in Mr. Layton’s 8 a.m. drawing session. He had arranged the drawing stations in a circle around a modeling stand.

Folks I want to introduce you to my two student assistants. This is Rachel and Darrell. They’re both junior art majors and will be helping us all week. Both are excellent artists so I know you’ll enjoy working with them. Rachel enjoys painting and Darrell is a fine art photographer. They’ve arranged your supplies over here on this table. Everybody pick up what they give you and then select a drawing station around the model stand.

Brandon and Jeremy picked up newsprint drawing pads, charcoal pencils and sticks, ink, and bamboo handle watercolor brushes, and then selected one of the waist high tables that had a slightly slanted drawing surface.

Class, I’m going to start off with a drawing demonstration and we’re going to discuss some physical and mental things that definitely affect your drawing performance. Rachel’s going to take a pose on the modeling stand and I’m going to create a series of gestures using a charcoal stick.

The thin strawberry blond dressed in a two piece bathing suit stepped up on the slightly elevated circular modeling stand and waited for further instructions. Rachel was the type who seemed to have a constant smile on her face and was an instant hit with the high school students. She quickly bowed to the class and took a quick 360 degree turn acting like a model. When she stopped she winked at Brandon and raised her eyebrows before looking back at Mr. Layton.

Rachel is also a dancer and a runner who performs with the University Dance Group. She is going to take a pose and then turn in space using some of her dance movements for the sequence of positions. I’m going to create a gesture drawing for each pose. It’s important for me to keep my eye on her more than on my paper so I will receive the visual information that will be translated into the two-dimensional image reflecting the essence of her pose, not the realistic version. It’s important that I be relaxed and confident, and use my whole arm movement. I’m going to make the type of fluid movement I might make if I was dancing or skating, when I have to move quickly and effortlessly. If you’re a little tense it’s good to start with a few warm up exercises such a touching your toes, jumping jacks, rotation of the neck, and body rotations from the waist up. Okay Ms. Rachel—first pose please.

Rachel lowered herself to a closed form squatting position with her arms around her legs and her head down. Mr. Layton looked for a second, took a deep breath and began to move his whole arm quickly to create a symbol in gesture of the pose.

Rachel count to five slowly and then move to another pose please.

Rachel then began to rise, but stopped halfway, he completed another gesture drawing. She then stood completely up with her clasped hands in front of her body and her head looking up. Mr. Layton completed the third gesture in about five seconds.

Using this approach he finished five more gesture drawings and then pulled them from his pad and asked Darrell to tape them to the wall in chronological order.

If you’ll notice, the drawings do not have detail and only represent the spirit of the poses. Some are better then others, but all of them are large and rhythmical without any hint of nervousness or worry on my part about success or failure. Any worry or tension in your body or mind will be reflected in your drawing, so please have fun while you’re doing this. It helps to have a great energetic model like Rachel.

Rachel gave a silly bow and the class clapped.

All right, now it’s your turn, so take a desk and we’ll activate Rachel. Move your arm in the direction her body suggests. The music I’m going to play is just to add a vibration to the room that is conducive to drawing. It’s by a group of four musicians I heard in San Antonio by the name of Wayanay Inka. Wayanay means swallow and is also the name of an ancient rural community located in the heights of the Andes in South America. You’ll hear the traditional stringed instruments such as an acoustical guitar and a wind instrument made from bamboo. I chose this tape because it is probably music that your are not familiar with, so it shouldn’t interfere with your drawing. Mr. Layton went over to a tape player and punched the play button. The room was filled with the haunting music from Peru that seemed to cause Rachel to position her body with the changing sounds.

Brandon was a little stiff at first, but soon relaxed and enjoyed the exercises.

Man this is cool, he heard Jeremy say from his right.

Brandon stopped just long enough to look at Jeremy’s drawing which really looked like what Rachel was doing. Way to go - Jeremy.

Hey man, have you seen the little brunette with the shoulder length hair straight across from us? Jeremy whispered under his breath as he pretended to study Brandon’s drawing.

Brandon looked across the room at the very attractive girl Jeremy was referring to.

Very, v-e-r-y nice, Brandon said.

You can have Rachel. She keeps looking at you anyway. I’ll take Ms. Brunette across the way, Jeremy whispered again.

Rachel’s a lot older than I am. She probably dates a senior.

Time will tell man, time will tell.

All right folks, Mr. Layton said. Time to take a break. Leave the best gesture drawing on top so everyone can walk around and see what you’ve done.

Rachel came over to Brandon’s desk. How’d you like drawing me Brandon?

You’re a great dancer Rachel.

Thanks and you’re right, she said with a big grin.

Rachel, who’s the brunette with the long hair over there? Jeremy asked while nodding his head toward the girl in question.

Kacey Brandon from Central City, Kentucky. You want to know if she has a boyfriend?

Does she?

I don’t know, but I can find out tonight. Do you guys want to do something after the planned event they have for you this evening?

Sure, I mean, do you want to Jeremy?

I do if you can fix me up with that girl.

No problem kind sir. No problem at all, Rachel said as she prissed away and went straight to Kacey’s work station. In a few moments she looked over at Jeremy and wiggled her index finger motioning him toward them.

Jeremy and Brandon grinned at each other and then walked over to wait for an introduction.

Guys, this is Kacey. Kacey this is Jeremy Covey from Louisville and my date for the evening Brandon Seger from Owensboro. Kacey has agreed to go with us tonight if I keep her safe. For this I have given my word as a model, student counselor, and lady. The last title being somewhat questionable.

Kacey shook the boys hands and told them she was glad to meet them.

We could get to know each other over lunch, Kacey offered.

Cool. Jeremy added.

Rachel put her arm on Brandon’s shoulder and whispered in his ear, I’ll pay for my own lunch and dinner.

"Okay folks, one more session before lunch break and you leave me for painting.

We’re not going to draw the figure this time, we—,"

Rats, we wanted to keep drawing Rachel, she’s great, one of the students said.

As I started to say, we’re not going to draw Rachel this time, we’re going to concentrate on the negative space around her. Mr. Layton began to demonstrate how to observe the negative space around her body and block it in with the side of a charcoal stick. He started at the edge of the paper and blacked in space as he moved toward the center, stopping each time where he perceived Rachel to be. When he finished there was a very realistic white form in the middle of a blackened environment. The class applauded. Mr. Lawton bowed. "You can see I’m influenced by Rachel’s behavior. Now you guys deal