Letters to Olivia

By Don Braam

Frankie Jamison, a bullied young boy from a small sleepy town in Minnesota, has begun a lifelong journey to find his place in the world. Along the way, he meets people who lend their help and become friends, mentors, and life partners. All the while, he confides in a unique source for support in his lifes roller-coaster ride of exhilarating highs and devastating lows.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Feb 1, 2018
• ISBN: 9781524694128

Don Braam

Donald Braam, a lifelong fan of all things Star Wars, lives in Platinum, Alaska with his wife and three of his four children. Besides working for the US Postal Service, Mr. Braam is currently working on his second novel as well as being a grandpa to two of his biggest fans.

Book preview

1

It was the summer of 1978 and six-year-old Frankie Jamison loved this time of year. He spent his days riding his bike on countless adventures through the local park and swimming at the nearby city pool with his friends. There was always another wonder to discover at Spring Lake Park. It included either feeding the numerous ducks and geese, catching frogs and salamanders, or hiding in the wooded areas and homemade trails. Even with all that available to him, he couldn’t wait for tonight. The family was going to spend the evening at the Twin Star Drive-In after supper.

It was one of the bright spots in the sleepy farm town of Mankato, Minnesota. It featured several huge screens and a concession area that sold all kinds of snacks that would rot your teeth as far as his mom was concerned. On the weekends, during the daytime they held flea markets at the drive-in. Frankie and his dad had explored it numerous times. They always found some interesting stuff while walking the booths as people sold everything under the sun. Tonight, they were going to see the newest release, a silly musical based in the fifties, or something like that. The last movie they saw was about aliens coming to earth in ships that were all lit up. It was cool because it had a little boy in it that ended up getting taken by the aliens. Frankie didn’t much care about a silly musical, but it was a big deal to go to the drive-in because they always got popcorn and other treats while they watched the movie.

After another afternoon of swimming and adventures, Frankie decided it was time to head home. He knew better than to be out after the sun started to set, especially tonight. As he walked in his house, his mother was right there to herd him and his sister into the bathroom to wash up for supper. His father arrived home from work as they were sitting down to eat. He worked at a factory that built large back-up generators for hospitals and businesses. He always came home looking so tired but tonight he came into the house smiling. He kissed Frankie’s mom and looked over at them. Are you ready for the movie? It’s going to be great. I saw previews on TV and it looked really good, Frankie’s dad said enthusiastically.

The truth is Frankie had seen the previews for the movie as well and it looked kind of corny. The part he had seen showed a bunch of guys with greasy hair in silver coveralls dancing around a red frame of a car with music playing. When they arrived at the drive-in, Frankie took in all the sights and smells around him. The dusty drive-in was fragrant with a hint of road grit mixed with the perfume of fresh popped corn and cotton candy. There were kids running around and in between parked cars and people in small groups talking amongst themselves. The big screens were still blank, as it hadn’t gotten dark enough yet to start the two feature movies of the night.

When the car finally stopped, Frankie asked if he could go play on the playground for a little while before the movie started. He heard his mom reply Just for a little while, as he leaped out of the car and ran to the playground to play with the other children. His father came and retrieved him a short while later as darkness was slowly creeping in. After a shower of OFF spray, Frankie and his sister were deposited into the back seat under a blanket with a bucket of popcorn to share. Frankie wasn’t worried about sharing though. His sister always ended up in his mom’s lap asleep before the movie was over, so he would get most of the popcorn to himself.

As the movie started, Frankie settled in and got comfortable. He just knew this movie was going to stink but at least his little sister had already started to fall asleep, so she wouldn’t bother him. The movie started out slow, a boy and a girl hugging and kissing, Yuck, and then the film proceeded to the guy in a leather jacket with a cigarette hanging out his mouth with a bunch of girls hanging around him. When Frankie got older he hoped he was popular with girls like that but for now he had more important things on his mind, like whether there was going to be another Star Wars movie or not.

As the movie proceeded, a bunch of girls drove up in a pink car. The driver was kind of loud and rude and Frankie guessed she was the leader of the group. Then the movie flashed to the office of the school and he really paid attention to the girl from the beginning that entered alone. She was the prettiest girl he had ever seen next to his mom. She had big blue eyes and long blond hair and when she sounded funny when she talked. She was in a long skirt with a dog on the side and a sweater like his mom wore to church on Sundays. Maybe this movie will be pretty good, thought Frankie, only if she is in most of it.

For the rest of the time, Frankie was totally attentive, watching every scene. He got into the music and especially enjoyed any scene that involved the pretty girl. She was like a magnet and instantly captured his attention. Towards the end of the movie, the girl seemed sad and he wished he could comfort her. The movie flashed forward to a fair with rides at the school. The cool guy and his friends were standing around and talking, suddenly up walked this blond girl in tight leather pants and a black top. The change amazed Frankie. Could that really be the same girl who was in the rest of the movie? She looked so different but still the effect on him was the same. The movie ended with the Danny and the Sandy floating off in a hotrod. Who was that girl? He asked his mom and she replied her name was Olivia.

2

The television had been playing the movie to death, and the radio had constantly played her songs since the movie debuted two years ago. Now eight, Frankie was finishing up the last day of second grade and looking forward to another summer filled with long bike rides, swimming and adventures on the wooded trails of Spring Lake Park. As he and his sister NJ, short for Norma Jean, walked home from school, he was humming a familiar song from Grease.

NJ laughed at him and teased, Thinking about your girlfriend again? He glared at her and then countered Shut up, she’s not my girlfriend, I just like her songs.

She laughed even harder, Yeah, that’s why you have her poster on your wall and listened to her record until it got all scratched up.

So, he had a poster with a bunch of pictures of her from the movie and maybe Frankie’s mom had to replace a record because the stupid thing quit playing. NJ just didn’t understand. She still listened to silly kid’s songs and played with baby toys not to mention she still watched Sesame Street and Mr. Rodgers. He liked his Star Wars figures and Transformers and had a small collection of records, which included Michael Jackson, Hall and Oates and of course Olivia. She was just jealous because he was more mature than her.

When they got home, NJ continued to tease her brother. Frankie was singing Olivia’s songs again! You know what that means mom?

Their mom stared at her for a second and after rolling her eyes replied, Oh do please tell me what that means, Norma Jean.

NJ smiled big at her brother and gushed, It means Frankie really likes her and wants to kiss her and stuff!

Mom, tell her that’s not true, Frankie whined.

Norma Jean, your father sings along with the radio all the time and it doesn’t mean he wants to kiss anyone but me. He just really likes the songs and enjoys singing along. Your brother just really likes Olivia’s music. Now go play and no more teasing your brother!

Frankie said thank you and then when his mom nodded he went to retrieve his bike and go for a ride.

One Saturday afternoon Frankie’s mom announced she was going to the library and asked if anyone wanted to come along. As usual, Frankie’s father said he was busy which meant he was going to putz around the yard all afternoon long without accomplishing anything. Frankie loved the library because he always came home with an armload full of books to read. Lately, he had been reading The Three Investigator mystery books, which were about three boys who solved cases involving missing stuff and strange occurrences.

When they got there, his mom said she wanted to show him a book she thought he would be interested in. You can’t check it out, but you can use it while you are here, his mom stated.

When he opened the book all that was in it was a bunch of names of people he didn’t recognize with addresses below each name. What good is this book? I don’t know any of these people Mom.

She just smiled and countered, Look for your favorite singer’s name and then tell me this book isn’t still useful.

He looked under her last name and there she was. Olivia had a PO Box in Malibu, California and the wheels in his head began to turn. Do you think she would write back if I sent her a letter? Frankie asked.

His mom smiled and responded, You won’t know if you don’t try and if she doesn’t, you can always write again.

Frankie had been sitting on his bed for hours staring at an empty notebook when his mother came and announced that his supper was waiting. Mom, what do I write to her? I want it to be perfect, so she will write me back. Frankie’s mom thought for a second and then replied, Tell her about yourself and how much you enjoy her music. That’s what I would want to hear about if I were her. If you write from the heart, I promise it will be perfect. Now come eat your supper before it gets cold. Frankie decided he would try to write the letter tomorrow because after supper it would be time for his bath and then bed. Write from his heart, his mom said, easier said than done, he thought.

The next morning after church, Frankie asked if he could go for a bike ride to the park. I just need to go somewhere quiet to think, he explained. His mom said it was fine and he should meet them at the pool after he finished. He packed his notebook into his backpack and grabbed an apple to munch on. After giving his mom a hug he grabbed his pack and hurried out the door to the garage. After he left his father asked what all that was about. Frankie’s mom told him about the possibility of a letter to Olivia and his father laughed, Really? I wish that was my biggest concern, but it is kind of cool that he’s going to write to a celebrity.

Frankie had a favorite spot at Spring Lake where he liked to go and think. It was a shady spot under a large willow tree not far from the park’s nearby pond. With the light summer breeze, the old tree seemed to speak to him as he sat under its massive branches. He sat there for a minute and stared out at the ducks swimming amongst the pond plants and then he began to write.

Dear Olivia,

My name is Francis Joseph Jamison, but everyone calls me Frankie. I am eight almost nine and will be in the third-grade next year in school. I saw the movie you were in and really like it when you sang. My mom says you’re from Australia, I think that is super neat. I have visited my Grandma in California, but I never left the US. I think it would be fun to visit somewhere besides boring old North Mankato. It must be exciting to be so famous. So, what is it like to be super popular? I have a few friends but mostly the kids at school ignore me. Maybe if you were to write me a letter I could show it off and the kids would think I was cool like your boyfriend in the movie. I know it is silly, but a kid can ask right? I hope you get my letter and can write me back. It would be so cool to hear about you and your life.

Write back soon.

Sincerely,

Frankie Jamison

Frankie read it twice and decided it wasn’t too bad and put it back in his backpack and headed for the pool. His mom smiled as she read the letter and said it was perfect. She said after they got home she would get an envelope and help him address it and mail it off.

Weeks passed without a response and Frankie concluded that maybe she was busy and wasn’t going to write him back. He could always write again but what if she still didn’t write back? Sensing that he was down, his mom came into his room one day after school while he was lying on his bed. Still upset about her not writing? Frankie, you have to remember that she is famous, and you aren’t the only person writing her. Don’t give up hope but also don’t get your heart set on getting a reply. Just keep trying and if it is meant to happen it will. Okay? He nodded as she wiped a tear away, By the way, we are going to the movies tonight. There’s a new movie that came out that your dad and I think will cheer you up.

Frankie wondered what movie could be coming out that his parents would let him stay up late for on a school night. The last movie they saw was The Empire Strikes Back at the Cine 4 theatre up by the local college. He cried when Luke got his hand cut off by Darth Vader. It was kind of embarrassing to walk and have people staring at him like something was wrong with him. He couldn’t help that the scene really upset him.

They were going to the new mall downtown tonight to see the movie. He hadn’t been to that theatre yet, but his friends said it was pretty good. His dad had taken him to the Aladdin’s Castle arcade across from the theatre a couple times to play video games. The mall itself had quite a few stores in it. It had a small pet store, a toy store and a bunch of clothing stores. They had gone clothes shopping for school at the JC Penney that was in the mall. The best part for Frankie was the glass elevator because as you went up you could watch all the people seem to float away.

He remembered one time when his mom had brought them to the mall and Darth Vader, a storm trooper and R2D2 had shown up. NJ didn’t seem to care but Frankie really enjoyed standing next to Vader and getting his picture taken. As they walked in, Frankie looked at the movie posters to see if he could figure out what the movie was that they were there to see. Nothing seemed to catch his interest until he got to one that started with an X. He asked his mom to tell him what it said because he couldn’t pronounce it. She said it’s called Xanadu and it was the movie they had come to see.

After getting their popcorn, sodas for mom and dad, and lemonades for Frankie and his sister, they headed into the theatre to find their seats. The screen was lit up with cartoon figures of a popcorn container, a soda cup and a candy box walking together reminding viewers to stop at the concessions stand for treats while a silly song was playing. After sitting down, NJ announced that she had to go to the bathroom. Frankie felt the urge as well, so he offered to walk her to the restroom. Their mother told them to hurry back and stick together.

Frankie was sure that they were going to miss something because his sister was taking forever. Eventually she came out of the bathroom and they walked quickly back into the theatre. When they entered, the lights had already started to dim so it took a minute for Frankie’s eyes to adjust and another minute to locate his parents. Anticipation began to build as the theatre finally got dark. Frankie wondered what his mom was up to, because she had a smile on her face as she looked over at him and he hoped the movie would be good.

The movie started with a plane going around a spinning earth and as it went out of sight behind the planet, it changed into some other flying craft. First a jet then a streamlined craft, then a flying saucer and finally a stream of colored light. Frankie quickly caught on to the reason for his mother’s grin when he saw Olivia’s name pop up on the screen. A sense of excitement and anticipation bubbled up inside him. He couldn’t wait to see how she would look this time and hoped she would sing again.

The movie started out slow, first showing some old guy playing a clarinet on the beach and then some other guy trying to draw and paint before tearing his picture up and throwing it out of his window. As the pieces flew away, Frankie’s excitement continued to build as he waited for her to appear. The pieces of paper finally landed in front of large mural of nine women. That’s when the movie exploded with action as one by one the women came to life and stepped out of the mural and began to dance around. When she appeared, Frankie’s sister gave him a nudge in the side. All he could do was smile as Olivia started to dance with the other women. A song started playing and the singer repeatedly sang about being alive.

One by one the women went in separate directions and turned into streaks of light and shot off like comets. Finally, Olivia took off and began to roller skate along the sidewalk. She skated right into the man who tore up his art and kissed him!! Man, he was lucky thought Frankie. Frankie didn’t like girls, but he would make an exception for her, maybe. She popped up again later and the guy fell into the water trying to catch up with her. Frankie laughed a little, the guy should have been more careful. I would never act so silly over a girl thought Frankie. As the movie went on, the guy finally talked to Olivia and they became all lovey-dovey, gross.

As the plot developed, Frankie became more interested in the movie. Apparently, Olivia’s character was a muse. She was supposed to help the artist be creative or something like that. She was even in the dictionary and popped into a television show. Frankie thought that was a neat trick that she could be wherever she wanted to be. Eventually, the artist and the older man decide to build a club together and they took the old man to get some new clothes. Frankie thought it would be boring as the man is trying on outfits but there was a good song playing and all the manikins came to life and start dancing around.

Finally, it was time for the grand opening of the club in the movie. It is a roller rink of all things and there are people all skating on a wooden floor and calling out the name Xanadu, which was the name of the club. It made Frankie want to go roller-skating at Skating World.

Olivia finally showed up and started singing one kind of song after another. She sang a country song in cowboy boots, and then she was dressed different and sang something else. She did this a couple of more times and then she came out in a fancy dress and had a sparkling thing covering her head and was singing about the club. She was so pretty and then she changed back into her normal self and then disappeared in a streak of light. Frankie was a little sad that the artist didn’t get to stay with her but then a waitress came up and it was Olivia again. The guy started talking to her and the movie ended.

After they got into the car, his mom asked what he thought of the movie. Frankie said he loved the movie and it was much better than her first one although Grease wasn’t terrible either. NJ liked the fact that she had so many outfits, kind of like her Barbie dolls. Frankie’s sister even liked some of the songs and the little cartoon part. Frankie thought the best part was when they roller skated alone on what looked like a roof, then a desert and finally it rained, and a train looked like it was coming. He thought it would be cool to go to a roller rink that could do all that. It would be a nonstop adventure every time you went skating.

On the Saturday after going to see Xanadu, Frankie decided to write another letter to Olivia because he just had to let her know how much he had enjoyed the movie. He figured he would do a better job this time, as he was now older. That just had to increase his chances of her writing back.

Dear Olivia,

I don’t know if you got my last letter or not, but I just saw your new movie Xanadu. I really liked it because of the music and the fact that there is roller-skating in it. I like to roller skate at the roller rink with my family. I always request your songs when we go because they are fun to skate to. My mom says you didn’t write last time because you are so busy, so I hope you can find time to write this time because I would love to hear about your life and what it is like to be famous. It must be a lot of fun to live in California close to the ocean. When we go visit my grandma we always go to the ocean in Santa Cruz. Have you ever been there? The boardwalk is awesome and so is Fisherman’s Wharf. You should come to Minnesota sometime. There is a lot to see here as well. I really hope you can write back sometime but if you don’t I understand. I really like your singing and hope you make some more songs. I already have a couple of your records. Please write if you can find time.

Sincerely,

Frankie Jamison

Frankie wondered if she had ever been to Minnesota. Maybe one day he would run into her, and they could talk. It was a thought, but it would be nice to let her how great he thought she was and find out what she was like. He took one more look at the letter and then folded it up and took it to his mother to mail off. It was a really hot day, so Frankie asked if he could go to the pool with his friends. As he walked out the door he caught himself singing one of Olivia’s songs.

3

Time flew and before he knew it, Frankie had turned fourteen. He couldn’t believe that he was going to be going to be a freshman. The high school was huge compared to his elementary school. It was one of two schools in Mankato not counting the catholic school on the hill. He wasn’t sure that he liked his new school. Frankie found it very difficult to make new friends. There were the usual social groups, none of which he fit into or was accepted by. With his dark hair and brown eyes, he felt like he was as ordinary as he could get even if his mom insisted otherwise.

Frankie’s mom said to give it time, but it never seemed like it was going to happen. He had started to notice girls and even asked a couple out. All they did was laugh in his face or sent some guy to teach him a lesson. Often Frankie came home with fresh bruises. He even earned a black eye once after unintentionally bumping into a football player’s girlfriend in the lunch line and making her spill her plate. Sensing Frankie’s stress about the new school and not making friends easily, his mom suggested he keep a journal. At first, Frankie argued that only girls have diaries. His mom explained it was a way to write down his thoughts and express himself, so Frankie agreed to try it as nothing else seemed to help.

Frankie asked his mom where one gets a journal and she told him to grab the car keys as now was as good a time as any to go find one. They ended up at familiar craft store and she led him right to a set of shelves, which held diaries of every color and look. Some had flowers on them and others announced that they were somebody’s diaries with a space to fill in a name. Frankie’s mom told him to pick one out as she went to shop elsewhere in the store.

Frankie looked through the selection and the decision was hard as most of the books seemed to be designed with a girl in mind as each either had flowers or cute little cartoon characters on it. Finally, as he neared the end of the shelf he found one that he really liked. On the label, it proclaimed it was a business journal. When Frankie opened the metal clasp, it had three rings that held the paper in which meant he could add paper later if this journal seemed to help. It was a dark brown color and had a leather feel, although Frankie was sure it was fake. On the inside of each cover was a small pocket, which he assumed was for business cards or something like that.

Frankie grabbed the book and when his mom first saw it she frowned as the book cost almost fifteen dollars. Are you sure this is the one you want? It is kind of expensive for a journal. The sales lady must have overheard them because when she took the book from Frankie’s mom, she said she would take five dollars off due to some small tear that only she noticed on the book. She winked at Frankie and handed him the bag that contained his new possession.

Frankie was so excited to write in his journal when he got home but instead just sat and stared at it. He wasn’t quite sure how to write a journal entry. He had seen a movie once where the girl in the movie had written in one and it had been like writing to a friend. When Frankie finally opened the small book, he decided in his mind that it was going to be his own secret friend that only he would be able to talk to. Dear Diary or Dear Journal sounded stupid, so Frankie went with something that sounded real and made sense to him.

Dear Olivia,

This being my first journal entry, I figured I should tell you about me. My name is Frankie Joseph Jamison and I am fourteen. I live in North Mankato and I am in the ninth-grade. I choose to name you Olivia because it is the name of one of my favorite singers and sounds better than writing Dear Weird Al. I guess I am writing because I don’t really have anyone else to talk to other than my little sister and my parents. My new school is huge, and all the kids hang out in their groups which I am not invited to. My mom thinks this will help so I am giving you a try. Well, will talk to you later, going to go for a ride before it gets too late.

Frankie

Frankie didn’t know why he signed it because it wasn’t like he was going to mail it off. At first, he only wrote a short note here and there as it was hard to find time to write between homework and chores. Eventually, Frankie figured out if he took five minutes or so after he got home he could empty his brain and then move on to his studies and whatever chores needed to be done for his parents. It did seem to help after he started writing every day and eventually Frankie took his journal everywhere he went including his bike rides. It was nice to have someone to talk to even if it was sheets of paper between two hard covers. He did have a couple close friends, but they were in the same dismissed group of kids like him. Not being the best advice givers, Frankie stuck to what worked.

The journal seemed to help Frankie especially when he had an awful day. Instead of holding his frustrations and sadness in, he poured it out on the pages of his journal. Usually, he made time before homework or chores to write down his thoughts, fears, and even a few dreams that had developed in his mind. Frankie even had a special hiding place for his journal when he couldn’t take it with him. He was sure that his stupid sister would waste no time reading his private thoughts if she found his journal sitting out. His wouldn’t even let his mom read it the one time she asked what he wrote about.

Frankie didn’t feel so alone now that he had his journal to confide in. He realized that it was just paper between fake leather covers, but it didn’t judge him, call his thoughts stupid or worse yet beat him up. In some ways, the journal had become a surrogate friend and Frankie appreciated having it and thanked his mom repeatedly for giving him the idea to get it. Frankie had no idea how much that little book would help him. He would come to realize it eventually as he grew older.

4

1988 was an eventful year for Frankie and his family. As he and his sister were getting older, his parents decided it was time to move to a better house. They went from living in the valley to living on top of the hill. The houses were nicer and according to Frankie’s friends it was where all the rich kids lived. The new house was located on a dead-end street in a quiet area. It had two apple trees and a huge garden in the backyard which included some raspberry bushes. Besides there was a deck in the front with a swing on it.

Life for Frankie had changed drastically for Frankie in two years since he started high school. When he wasn’t working at Sears unloading and loading appliances or helping his parents with yard work, he was hanging out with new friends. He had finally started to take the idea of having a girlfriend seriously and hoped to be the first of his friends to get one. The girl across the street was cute with her dark hair and freckles but she was way more popular than him and extremely out of his league.

Frankie came home one day and sat next to his mom and announced that he had a huge final assignment in English class. We have to write a celebrity a letter with proper punctuation and if we get a response, we’ll have to read the return letter in front of the class, replied Frankie. NJ asked who he was going to write and if it would be Olivia. I don’t know, I have already written her twice and I don’t want to be the loser who doesn’t get a response.

He had thought about writing a singer who he had seen perform at an amusement park called Valleyfair or any number of actors. This was a big decision. The letter was worth half his final grade and it had to be good. Besides that, he had to write a paper first naming the person he was going to write to and why.

One day after school he had gone for a ride on his bike and as usual he had taken his journal with him. He had gone to one of his new favorite spots to think in Bluff Park. There was a gazebo which had a great view of lower North Mankato as from it you could look at the entire valley below. After appreciating the view, he opened his journal and began to write.

Dear Olivia,

I got my final English assignment this week. I have to choose a celebrity and write a letter to them. I thought about writing you as it has been awhile, but you never write back. Besides that, everyone else is going to be writing all the popular ones and let’s face it you aren’t going to make the list anymore. Don’t get me wrong, I still listen to you, but image is everything in high school and I can use all the help I can get. I know we have talked in my journal but nobody but me reads this and a letter is different. My mom says that a true fan will never give up hope, but I just don’t want to be the one who doesn’t get a response. One other thing, I thought about having a girlfriend. It is something I really want to happen soon, and I hope whoever the lucky girl is, she is beautiful like you. I mean, I am not real popular but as my dad says there is someone out there for everyone, so there must be hope even for me. Well, I better get going, supper will be ready soon and I will get skinned if I am late. Talk to you later.

On his way home, Frankie noticed that it was getting dusk and the first stars had started coming out, so he paused a second to make a wish on the first star he saw. He knew what exactly what to ask for. After the quick request, he headed the rest of the way home to supper. He didn’t know if it would work, but he figured it was worth a try.

When he got home, his mom announced that they were going over to a friend’s home in nearby St. Peter for supper. Frankie had met his parent’s friends a month ago at a radio event in a car lot. Frankie had won a chance to start a 1967 Ford Mustang. His key ended up not being the right one, but he met some singer who was popular when his parents were kids. He also met his parent’s friend Paul and his wife who were fans of the singer like Frankie’s parents. Paul apparently made money on the side as a DJ playing music, mostly from the 50’s and 60’s.

According to his mom, Paul had shared custody of three girls with his ex-wife as well as a stepdaughter with his current wife. All the girls were going to be at the cookout. Well at least NJ will have someone to play with, thought Frankie. Do I have to go? I really don’t think a house full of girls is going to be any fun mom.

After giving him a frown, his mom replied, Yes you will go and be a part of this family. Your friends will be there tomorrow.

Frankie rolled his eyes and went to shower off the sweat and change clothes.

After arriving in the small town of St. Peter, it took a minute longer to arrive at Paul’s house. There were three girls sitting on the table talking and watching Paul work on the grill. When Frankie’s dad stopped the car, a fourth walked out of the house with Paul’s wife. As they walked up, introductions were made. Starting with the youngest, there was Tina, a petite curly-haired blonde. Next was Cari, taller and thin but with long red hair and freckles across her face. Then there was Maddie’s daughter Tracy with blonde hair to her shoulders. Finally, there was Samantha, who according to his mom, was only a couple years younger than him.

Samantha had dark brown hair to her shoulders and blue eyes and a blue bow in her hair. She immediately caught Frankie’s attention as soon as he got out of the car, but he didn’t want to stare. Instead he pretended he didn’t notice and came up and watched Paul cook instead. Supper consisted of hot dogs and potato salad which Frankie had several helpings of. After supper, the younger girls went to play laser tag while Frankie’s dad and Paul went to watch. Frankie’s mom, Paul’s wife Maddy and Frankie were playing rummy while Samantha watched them and constantly looked over at Frankie and smiled.

As it got dark everyone came back inside Paul’s small house and the children were shooed away so that the adults could play cards and talk. The kids all crowded into Tracy’s bedroom to talk. Frankie felt so out of place with all those girls, so he stood next to the door in case he needed to make a quick exit to the safety of the living room. Tracy suggested that they play Truth or Dare, and all the girls giggled and turned to look at Frankie.

Do you want to play? Samantha inquired.

No, he’s probably chicken, said his sister who was clearly showing off in front of her newly made friends.

What could it hurt to play? Frankie thought. I’ll play as long as I don’t have to do anything really stupid.

The game’s rules were simple. The first person took a turn and either chose to do a dare or answer a question truthfully and then chose the next person to take a turn. The game started out lame and they ignored Frankie while doing silly dares and telling half-truths about boys and accomplishments.

Frankie was almost starting to enjoy just listening to their crazy stories when unexpectedly Tina, the youngest, chose him.

Truth or dare? You can chicken out if you are scared, She stated.

Truth, he responded, and she asked if he had ever kissed a girl besides his mom and sister. Frankie considered lying like the girls had to have done on their turns, but he truthfully said he hadn’t. Too late, he realized the opportunity he had opened for the girls. After he had chosen his sister and made her spin in a circle until she was dizzy as payback for the comment earlier, they picked him again.

This time the girls looked at each other and giggled. His sister had a devious smile on her face as she announced Frankie’s challenge. I dare you to kiss Samantha on the lips! He was mortified. Yeah, she was cute but what if he messed up or she thought he was grotesque?

Only one person gets to watch and only if Samantha agrees to it, said Tracy.

Frankie looked over at Samantha and saw that she was smiling, and he was shocked when she agreed to the dare. Frankie chose Tracy as the witness and after he made sure all other eyes were closed he leaned forward and made the deed a quick peck. Nothing fancy and after that he went out to the living room to watch television. There was no way he was going to get trapped into another embarrassing dare.

He was getting into some sci-fi movie when Tracy came out of the bedroom and slid a folded piece of paper into his hand in such a way to hide it from his and her parents. He waited until she was gone and then unfolded the paper which contained a short question and two possible answers to choose from. He had to read the note several times before he could believe what was written on it.

Do you want to go out with Samantha?

Circle One

Yes No

Frankie had butterflies in his stomach as he considered what the note meant. She really liked him enough to send Tracy out to ask him out. He thought she was pretty which made the choice very easy. He circled yes and then folded the paper back over. He wanted to see her face when she read his answer, so he got up and walked into the bedroom where all the girls were gossiping amongst themselves.

When he walked in the room suddenly got very quiet. Samantha looked up and stared into his eyes as if trying to read his thoughts. As he handed the note to her, all eyes followed his hand as it reached out to hers. Then when she opened the note the girls all watched her face for some sign of the answer. Seconds seem to take forever and then she smiled, and her eyes twinkled as she looked up at Frankie.

I take it you liked my answer, Frankie said.

Very much, thank you, she responded with a wide smile.

Samantha and Frankie asked their parents for permission to go out and sit on the picnic table and talk. Frankie’s mom smiled, and Paul remarked, Don’t do anything I would do! Frankie opened the door for Samantha to go out and then followed her. It had gotten a little chilly, so they sat close with their backs to the door. At first all they could was smile at each other and then Samantha broke the ice. So, what do you like to do? I like to listen to music.

Frankie couldn’t stop smiling but replied, I like music and movies too. So where do you go to school?

She said that she lived in a town called St. Clair. Before they could talk any longer, Samantha’s youngest sister came out, presumably to be the lookout for any close encounters. They continued to talk but chose their words carefully to avoid giving her sister anything to gossip about.

She didn’t leave them alone again until Frankie’s dad announced it was time to go. Slightly annoyed his luck wasn’t better Frankie looked over at Tina and said, Thanks a lot, really!

She just smiled and returned with, Glad I could help. After saying goodbye to Paul and his wife, Frankie turned to Samantha who was smiling from ear to ear. They closed the gap together and hugged each other tightly. Frankie whispered to her I will write and call when I can.

Samantha looked up at him and said, You better or else! After another embrace they parted ways and Frankie headed for the car where his parents and sister waited, and they started towards home in the dark. Frankie stared at Samantha until they turned a corner and she went out of sight.

After hardly sleeping last night, Frankie was up early and couldn’t wait to get his journal out and write down his thoughts about last night’s events. He still couldn’t believe he was going out with a girl and a beautiful one at that. He had seen some of his classmate’s girlfriends at school and in his opinion, they were better off being single than going through the trauma of kissing those hairy sea cows.

Dear Olivia,

The most amazing thing has happened to me. I met a girl last night. Not just any girl either, one who likes me. Her name is Samantha. We are going out and I couldn’t be happier. We met at a cookout and we talked and laughed, it was so great. I have so many questions to ask but after all, you are only a journal and can’t really answer me. I just don’t want to mess up. This might be the only chance I get to have a girlfriend. I just hope I can be someone she can lean on and care about like my mom and dad are to each other. Well there are sure to be many more entries so stay tuned.

Frankie knew who he could talk to and he went to find his mom, who always had an answer for any problem. He surely couldn’t ask his dad the questions in his head. Frankie’s dad was always too busy with yard work and putzing to answer serious questions even when they went fishing together. His mom was in the basement feeding the washer a load of dirty clothes as Frankie made his way down the stairs.

Mom, I have a couple questions if you have time.

His mother smiled as she finished loading the machine with soap and turned it on. "They wouldn’t have to do with a certain young lady, would they?’ He could tell she was highly amused.

Mom, I’m trying to have a serious conversation. How do I be a good boyfriend? asked Frankie.

Frankie’s mom changed the expression on her face and playfully tried to be serious. You do realize that I am a girl and have never been a boyfriend so maybe you should ask your father.

Frankie should have guessed this was coming but he countered, Dad is always too busy. Besides you give better advice anyway.

His mom smiled, and he could tell that she was considering her answer carefully. When I was dating your father, what attracted me to him was the fact he always was honest and didn’t try to be something he wasn’t. Just be yourself and don’t ever lie to her. Of course, as your mother, it’s a bit early for this talk isn’t it? After all you two just met and really haven’t had much time to get to know each other yet. Just give it time and don’t rush things too much, you both are pretty young to be falling in love so quickly.

Frankie was pretty sure he didn’t yet love her. He just really liked her so what was the big problem? As he went upstairs he thought about all the things he had to accomplish today. He had wanted to call Samantha, but dad said not now. Besides, he had to come up with a rough draft for his celebrity paper explaining who he was going to write. He had been so occupied with thoughts of Samantha that he had almost forgotten about the assignment. He hadn’t even decided who he was going to write.

He eventually gave up the idea of writing to Olivia again. Frankie decided it would be too personal to share with people who took a sick pleasure beating the crap out of him. He chose to write a singer who sang funny versions of other people songs instead. As he sat in English class he listened to guys justifying their desire to write the most popular female celebrities who looked good in swimsuits or lingerie. The girls were just as predictable as they were all writing the popular actors who looked good without shirts on or were on television shows.

All in all, he thought he did a good job bluffing his way through the writing assignment and now just had to write the letter. What he really wanted to do was talk to Samantha. He had only met her a couple of days ago and wished she were next to him. When Frankie got home from school, he asked his mom if he could talk to Samantha. She said it was fine for a little while but to be off the phone before his dad got home. He dialed the number and after two rings the familiar voice of Tina answered the phone. Is Samantha available? After laughing for a minute, she responded Hold on lover boy and I will see if she wants to talk to you.

As he waited in anticipation, Frankie hoped he wouldn’t freeze up again like on the picnic table and not be able to speak. Hello? He had been waiting to hear her sweet voice. Hi beautiful, how are you? I’ve waited a whole two days to talk to you again, it seems like it has been forever.

He could just feel her smile forming as he told her about his day. She said she had told her friends about him and they couldn’t wait to meet him in person. I just can’t believe we are together. My mom said to be honest, so I just want you to know I am not one of the popular kids in my school.

Frankie waited for her to say it wasn’t going to work because he knew it had to be coming. Really, who wanted to be with a loser, especially when you looked like her?

I’m glad you were honest with me, I don’t like liars. I am also ok with you not being super-popular. That just means your attention will be on me and not impressing all your friends, Samantha replied. This had to be a dream. How did he in a million years pull this off? This was too good to be true. So, are we good Frankie? I just want to know if we are, so I can officially say I have a boyfriend, Asked Samantha.

There wasn’t enough room in the house to contain the smile on his face. Oh, we are better than good, but I can’t call you my girlfriend yet because we haven’t even been on a date, Replied Frankie. There, now Mom can’t say I am rushing thought Frankie. Besides, this gave him an excuse to see her again.

Your mom didn’t tell you? Well, then I’m not going to spoil it. Talk to you soon. She wouldn’t budge and divulge any details, so they said their goodbyes and he immediately went to find his mother. As usual, his mom had the mischievous grin on her face. Did you have a good talk? She was barely able to ask while trying not to laugh.

What do you know that you are not telling me because apparently Samantha knows something too, Frankie asked.

So, she didn’t tell you anything? Oh, I like a girl who can keep secrets, Replied his mom.

With that his mom burst out laughing as Frankie’s face showed his frustration. That’s not even fair, what happened to honesty? grumbled Frankie.

Frankie’s mom looked at him while wiping tears away from laughing so hard and said, She didn’t lie to you, just chose not to tell you yet, you’ll find out soon enough. Now finish your homework and chores.

Yes mom, he grumbled and went to start on his math and letter to his chosen celebrity.

The letter was simple, Frankie told the singer about seeing him in concert at Valleyfair. Frankie remembered that trip like it was yesterday. He mowed grass for over a month to save up after he had seen the commercial advertising the singer’s appearance. The amusement park was one of Frankie’s favorite places on Earth. It had every kind of ride imaginable not to mention an IMAX theatre and a huge water park. He could spend every day there and not get bored with the place. Frankie had saved over fifty dollars for the trip and invited one of his friends to come along. It was so much fun, and the singer and his band had been had been hilarious.

Frankie told him how much he liked his music and videos and that he would appreciate a response since this was a school assignment. The letter turned out pretty good and when he was satisfied with it, Frankie put it in a stamped envelope and addressed it and placed it in the mailbox. He was going to write to Samantha as well but wanted to update his journal first.

Dear Olivia,

I had a good conversation with Samantha. I think my mom and her are up to something. My mom doesn’t surprise me, but it is weird that Samantha is keeping stuff from me. My mom says not to worry but I guess I still do. It might seem silly, but we just met. I wish sometimes you really could give advice, I could use it occasionally. I chose to write someone else instead of you, writing you seemed kind of personal and I didn’t want to share that with the assholes at school. It would just give them something else to beat on me for. Well, guess I can’t hurt a journal’s feelings. I hope whatever my mom has planned involves seeing Samantha sooner than later. I told her I couldn’t call her my girlfriend until we started dating. Hopefully it happens soon, otherwise I might just have to hitchhike and see her. Talk to you later, I have chores to do and a letter to write to someone special.

5

It had been a couple days since he had talked to Samantha and Frankie wished she was next to him. He didn’t understand how he could miss someone he had only met once but hearing her voice only increased the pain he felt. He was outside mowing the grass when his dad came out to check his progress.

After giving an approving look, his dad replied You need to finish up, so you can get cleaned up. We are going to the Kato Ballroom to see the White Side Walls and mom thought you might like to come along and hang out with the adults. Frankie had seen the cover band before, they were actually pretty good. They sang a lot of the oldies and had some routines they did with certain songs. For example, when they sang Great Balls of Fire, they lit the piano on fire while the guy played it and sang.

What about NJ, is she coming too? All she did was whine about being tired or bored anymore. Frankie really hoped it would just be him. I figured maybe she could go sleep over at her friend’s house and we could make this a sister-free night, commented Frankie’s dad. Frankie quickly finished the lawn, he couldn’t wait for tonight. A night spent with his parents listening to good music without being ruined by his annoying sister. Only one person could make it better.

The Kato Ballroom was a legendary place. A lot of famous singers had performed there. As he and his parents walked in, the hallway contained numerous framed pictures of the famous people who had visited. The dance floor itself was huge and had a large stage that was currently lit up. The bar was in the rear of the building with several pool tables and some arcade games to the left. Most of the tables were already claimed but his parents managed to find a table with six chairs. Are we meeting someone here? Frankie asked inquisitively. Paul and Maddie said that they might show up, so we are saving them some seats, Frankie’s dad replied and then gave his mom a weird look.

A short while later Frankie was enjoying a coke and he felt soft hands cover his eyes from behind him. Guess who? Frankie felt a surge of excitement and he jumped out of his seat and turned around. He knew that voice from a phone call he had made recently. When he turned around, Samantha was standing before him dressed in a blue top, jeans and a blue headband. Surprise!! Now you know what I couldn’t tell you.

He immediately reached for her and hugged her tightly. God, it’s good to see you, I really missed you. As they sat down, their parents came back with fresh soda and baskets of popcorn which Samantha and Frankie happily munched on while waiting for the show to start. Frankie couldn’t stop smiling and looking over at Samantha.

As the band came on stage, they started with an upbeat version of At the Hop. Frankie’s parents joined Paul and Maddie on the dance floor and began to twist and turn to the music. Frankie and Samantha sat and watched with great amusement as their parents attempted turns and dance moves, sometimes successfully, other times not so well. As they watched the people attempting to dance, Frankie reached under the table and located Samantha’s hand. She immediately interlocked her fingers into his and scooted closer.

After a couple quicker songs, the lights dimmed, and the band began their rendition of In the Still of the Night. Let’s dance, I love this song, Samantha exclaimed while dragging him to his feet. As they reached the dance floor, Samantha put her arms around Frankie’s neck as held on to her waist. The rest of the ballroom seemed to blur away, and it was if they were there alone because all he could see was her. As the song went on, Samantha closed the gap between them and rested her head on his shoulder. Frankie felt as though he were floating on clouds and held her close even after the song ended.

What a cute couple, the lead singer exclaimed. At first Frankie didn’t realize that he was the focus of the singer remark and then it dawned on him as everyone was staring. The singer asked them their names and how long they had been together. After Frankie answered his questions the singer remarked, Ah, young love! Here is a special number for my young love birds. The band then started into a slow Isley Brothers song which Frankie immediately took advantage of.

After another slow song and an attempt at dancing like the adults which resulted in more laughing than dancing, Frankie led Samantha back to their seats to drink some coke and hold hands and talk. My dad has us this weekend and says he is going to bring us to your house to visit.

Frankie quickly inquired, For real?

Samantha smiled Yep, that’s what he said.

How much luckier could Frankie get to be able to see Samantha twice in one week. That’s really great to hear. Maybe I can show you one of my special places I go to think. He would somehow have to sneak her away from the meddlesome little sisters for some one on one attention and maybe build the courage up to finally steal his first real kiss.

After the band wrapped up, Samantha’s dad suggested that the adults go get some coffee before they call it a night. Frankie asked if he could ride with Samantha and after climbing in the backseat with her, he held her close as the car began to move. After ordering four coffees and two milk shakes, Paul asked if Frankie had enjoyed the show. Very much, I had good company and I am glad I met your daughter last weekend.

The girls had gone to the restroom leaving Frankie alone with the men. Paul, in his concerned father voice stated, Just treat her good. I can see she is happy with you, but I don’t want you guys to rush things and one of you end up getting hurt. Okay? Frankie nodded that he understood. He would never intentionally hurt Samantha but