Short Stories and Poems

By George Evans

This book is a compilation of short stories and poems.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Sep 3, 2019
• ISBN: 9781728325941

George Evans

The author resides in Santa Rosa, Ca. Hes a retired educator who grew up in Gary, Indiana and he served in the Air Force during the Korean war. George received his degree from the University of Vermont and masters from the University of Colorado. Besides writing, he enjoys woodworking, painting and cooking. He has three sons, a daughter, six grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

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© 2019 George Evans. 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 09/02/2019

ISBN: 978-1-7283-2595-8 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-7283-2594-1 (e)

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

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

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 Dilemma

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Carol’s Journey

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Change

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Frank’s Discovery

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Growing Up

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Andy’s Journey

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Jed, Casey And Mary

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Mertle The Turtle

My Neighbor

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

My Story

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Susan’s Friendship Quilt

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

The Four Candles

Chapter One

Chapter Two

The Necklace

The Unbroken Spirit

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Sophie

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Walking With Grandpa

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Poetry

Thoughts To Share

Birth In Poverty

Ice Breaker

Day Of Independence And Dependence

Terrorism, 9/11

Blind Man On The Corner

Forgotten

Stocks

The Lady In White

A Kiss By The Bay

The Final Goodbye

Concerns

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A Dilemma

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CHAPTER ONE

Janet, an attractive, a fifty-eight year, slender blonde, was on her way to her mother’s house in California. After living with Jim in Oregon, who was fifteen years older and after a great deal of thought, she had decided to leave him. Her departure was from a life that she had never felt quite fulfilled. She regretted not having children. Instead she chose to work and accumulate money while living a frugal, simple life without the love and responsibilities of motherhood, solely dedicating her life to Jim. He taught her how to fish and how to shoot a rifle. Her life style was certainly not a typical feminine one. Although Janet had enjoyed the simple life of living in a cabin located at the edge of a forest; she felt that she wanted and needed to experience a different life style. She decided that there was more to life than living with a Tarzan, who refused to relocate or change his ways.

Her eighty- year old, widowed mother, Gertrude, who was born in Poland, was a very proud woman. She lived alone in northern California in her well-maintained condominium. However, Robert, a long-time acquaintance of Gertrude, moved in after he lost his home in a fire. Sometimes, Robert, who tends to be forgetful, would fry an egg when everyone was asleep and he didn’t always turn off the gas burner. Gertrude had to often remind Robert about it. She had no debts and she also had a substantial amount of money in a savings bank. As she aged, she wanted her only daughter by her side during her remaining years. Janet was destined to inherit all of her mother’s wealth and possessions.

Janet’s automobile was packed with her personal belongings and important documents. She had shipped a few boxes of her possessions to her mother’s home the day before she left for California. She had pulled into her mother’s driveway just before nightfall. Although somewhat weary, she managed to smile and embraced her mother as soon as she entered her mother’s home.

Her mother brushed aside a tear, I’m so happy to see you. How was your trip?

The car performed perfectly. The commute hour was a little hectic. It’s so good to finally be here.

After mother wiped away a few tears, she offered to help Janet carry her luggage.

Thanks mom. I can do it. I shipped most of my things yesterday. I only have my clothes and important papers in the car.

Mother smiled, I bet that you’re hungry. I have chicken and potatoes in the oven. I also made your favorite dessert.

That’s great! I’m really hungry and I missed your vanilla pudding.

Robert, a long-time friend of Gertrude walked into the dining room.

Hi Janet. It’s good to see you again. How was the long drive?

It was okay. But I’m glad that it’s over.

Robert said, As you know, my house was totally destroyed in the recent fire. I hope to be in my new house in another week or so. Your mom was kind enough to allow me to stay here in the meantime.

Gertrude looked at Robert, Honey, I enjoy your company. Now let’s have dinner.

Since Janet had been a supervisor in a bank, she was hired by a bank to replace a retired employee. She enjoyed her job and living in California; but she felt somewhat lonely. She missed having a male companion. Janet became close friends with Alice, who was also single and worked at the bank. They often had lunch together at a nearby restaurant. During lunch, Alice suggested that they go to an upscale bar this weekend where many singles went. Since it was Halloween, masks were required.

They both had their hair done and the two dressed to the nines. Alice agreed to drive. The two attractive women, in their thirties, were certain to attract attention. Janet and Alice sat at a table and each one ordered a glass of wine. After a while, two men approached them.

They were average looking and they were well dressed. One of the men was on the short side and the other one was a foot taller. Bob introduced his friend Frank.

After the introductions, the two men were invited to sit at the table.

Frank chose to sit next to Janet. The conversation was far from being dull and mundane. It was obvious that the four enjoyed each other’s company, frequently punctuated with laughter. The time passed by quickly. It was getting late. Frank and Janet exchanged phone number. So did Bob and Alice. They parted just before eleven. On the way home, both Alice and Janet both smiled as they discussed what a great time they had.

After Alice parked her car in Janet’s driveway, she said, Janet, it was a lot of fun tonight. We ought to it again, soon.

I had a good time, too. I think that Frank is very special; even though he has a narrow gap between his two front teeth.

He seems to be very nice; but there could be a problem if you decide to go steady with him

Janet paused. I know what you’re thinking. He’s black and after he mentioned the year he graduated from high school, I figured that he’s about ten years younger than I am. Also, I know that my mother will have a fit if I have a black boyfriend. She’s very traditional.

Alice nodded her head. I had the same thoughts. Since your mother is in her eighties, she’s probably a little frail and the stress of you dating a young, black man may be too much for her.

I know. I’m not sure what to do. What do I tell him if he calls?

I think that if you’re not honest with him in the beginning about your mother’s attitude towards your dating a black man, he’ll most likely resent you when he finds out. It’s a tough dilemma."

I’ll sleep on it. Maybe things will become clearer in the morning."

That’s a good idea. Don’t rush into it. Also, keep in mind that younger men may be looking for a mother and money. I don’t think you want that.

No, I don’t. Thanks for the lift. We’ll talk about it tomorrow during our break. Good night."

Alice drove off. Janet opened the front door, turned off the porch light and she quietly went up the stairs to her bedroom. Her mother was already asleep in her room.

As usual, mother was up early, preparing breakfast for three. Janet entered the kitchen and greeted Robert after she kissed her mother on the cheek.

Curious, the mother asked, Did you have a good time last night?

Janet smiled, Yes. It was fun. Alice and I met two very nice men.

Mother smiled, That’s good. I wish that you would go to church or meet men at places other than at a bar.

Then Robert joined the conversation and said, Your mother’s right. Bars aren’t the ideal places to meet a man.

Janet just smiled and nodded. She decided that it wasn’t a good time to tell her mother about Frank."

When Alice saw Janet during the break, she asked, What have you decided to do?

Janet shrugged her shoulder, I was going to; but I decided to talk about it later. Besides, maybe he won’t call.

Alice agreed, That’s a good idea

Janet asked, What if Bob calls? What will you tell him?

I’ll tell him I’m busy or I won’t answer the phone. I have caller ID

That evening, the phone rang. Janet’s mother answered. Hello.

Is Alice there?

Mother looked at Alice. Alice shook her head from side to side.

Mother said, She’s not here.

A man said, Please tell her that Frank called.

Okay. Mother put the phone back on the receiver and asked Who’s Frank?

Probably some guy I met at the bar.

Why didn’t you want to talk to him?

He seems to be quite nice; but he’s too young.

Honey, maybe you ought to join a singles’ group. There are quite a few.

That’s a good idea, mom. I’ll look into it.

Alice went up to her mother, kissed her on the cheek and said, I’m going to my room and do a little reading. Goodnight.

Goodnight, dear.

As soon as her bedroom door shut, Mother sat on the sofa, next to Robert and said, I sense that something that’s troubling is on Alice’s mind.

Robert advised, It’s best to let it go. She’ll tell you when she’s ready.

I guess you’re right. She’s just not her bouncy, happy self. Maybe she should have her own place.

Time will tell. Keep in mind that rentals are expensive. I think she prefers to stay with you and save.

The following day, at work, Alice noticed that Janet seem to be in a fog. Janet, what’s wrong?

Mother answered the phone last night. It was probably Frank. I didn’t want to talk to him and I know that mom suspects that something is wrong."

That’s a problem. He’ll probably call again tonight. What are you going to do?

I don’t know. Maybe, I’ll join a singles group.

Alice smiled, I’ve tried that route and I’m still alone; but don’t let me stop you from trying.

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CHAPTER TWO

The following week, Janet wasn’t sure that it was a good idea to attend a singles group. But she realized that she had nothing to lose. She decided to have her hair cut and she was certain to make an impressive appearance. It was a half-hour drive to the church where the singles group meeting was held. There were quite a few cars in the parking lot; which made Janet feel better about attending. She walked in, smiled at everyone. Within a few minutes, the group leader made a few comments and then everyone sat in chairs that were in a circle. After they introduced themselves, they then took turns sharing a brief personal history.

When a black man introduced himself as Frank, Janet wanted to leave; but she didn’t. When it was her turn, she introduced herself as Mary. Janet couldn’t help but notice that Frank kept looking at her. During the time to mingle, Janet felt very uneasy while Frank was walking towards her. She tried her best to remain calm and indifferent.

Frank smiled and said, Hi. This is your first time here. How do you like it?

Yes, it is. It’s very interesting."

Frank replied, Your voice sounds familiar. Have we met before?"

I don’t think so.

Frank asked, Do you plan to come here next week?

I’m not sure. How long have you been attending?

I started coming here about three months ago.

Janet wondered, I’m surprised that you haven’t connected with someone.

I’ve had several dates; but nothing serious.

One can’t rush into these things.

Smiling, You’re right about that. Say, I wonder if you would like to meet for lunch. I know a great place.

Janet thought to herself. This guy doesn’t waste any time. With a contrived smile, she said, I don’t think so. I have to leave now.

Wearing a disappointed look, I’m sorry that you’re leaving so soon. I hope that I see you next week.

Then Frank left and he immediately approached another woman. Janet noticed that. She concluded that he’s making the rounds like a rooster in a hen house.

On her way home, although somewhat disappointed, she was glad that she decided to attend the singles group. She learned first hand that Frank wasn’t her type. She was ready to give up looking and hoping.

As soon as she walked into the house, Janet was surprised that her mother was still up and she asked,

How was it? Meet anyone?

I’m glad that I went. I met the man who keeps calling. He’s really not for me.

He sounded so nice over the phone. What’s wrong with him?

I don’t mind too much that he’s black. He’s definitely a rover. I could never trust him.

Oh! He’s black! Then I think that you made the right decision. I’m going up to bed.

Janet kissed her mother on the cheek, Goodnight mom.

Janet was now certain that she had to give up the thought of ever being romantically involved with Frank.

The following day at work, during their break, Alice asked, How was the singles group?

Janet smiled and said, Guess who I saw there?

You saw Frank?

Yes. He thinks he’s Mister Cool.

Are you sure that it was Frank?

Yes. I recognized his voice and the gap between his two front teeth.

He didn’t know who I was since I used a different name. During our time to mingle, he came up to me and introduced himself. It wasn’t long before he asked me out to lunch. I wasn’t impressed with his mannerism and I made up an excuse. Then, he immediately went over to another woman. He thinks he’s a Don Juan.

Alice commented, Maybe he did come on too strong; but keep in mind the purpose of the singles group.

Somewhat upset, Janet exclaimed, You’re defending him?

No. Some men are quite awkward, socially and they tend to say the wrong things at the wrong time. I learned that the hard way. I met a handsome man and I thought that he was a little too forward. Later, I regretted that I didn’t take a chance with him. He’s now connected with someone else.

Janet admitted, Perhaps I may have been too quick to judge.

Alice reminded Janet, You’re a pretty woman and as you know, you’ll attract all kinds of men. I hope that you attend the single’s group again.

I’ll think about. Thanks for the advice."

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CHAPTER THREE

The following week, Janet decided to go to the singles group meeting. She was late because of traffic. When she entered the room, the group was already sitting in a circle. The leader welcomed Janet as she sat. Both Frank and Janet exchanged glances. As soon as it was time for a break, Frank smiled as he approached Janet and commented,

I was hoping that you would be here.

Thanks.

Are you sure that we haven’t met some other place. You really look familiar.

After pausing, Janet finally replied, I don’t think so.

After talking about the usual mundane topics, Frank asked,

How would you feel about meeting for coffee someday?

I’ll have to think about that.

Frank smiled, You certainly are a cautious woman. Here’s my phone number if you decide to meet.

The following day at work, Janet told Alice about her positive experience with Frank and that she had his phone number.

Alice smiled, Do you plan to call him?

I often thought about calling. But my mother would be too upset about dating a black man. She’s quite fragile and I’m afraid that any stress wouldn’t be good for her health.

I understand. You’re doing the right thing. By the way, the bank wants to send us to a convention in New York for a couple of days. We’ll get to stay in a nice hotel.

That’s great! It’ll be fun.

Mother reminded Janet to be sure to call as soon as possible. Early, the following morning, Janet called home. There was no answer. Janet thought that was strange. She looked at Alice with a worried look,

Something is wrong. Mother never leaves the house in the morning.

Alice assured her, I’m sure that she’s okay. Maybe she’s taking a bath.

Perhaps. I’ll try calling her again at noon.

Alice said, "We’d better hurry. We don’t much time before the convention starts.

Janet’s mind was on her mother during the proceedings at the convention. She abruptly left and she went to the lobby to call her mother. There was no answer. Janet returned and she expressed her concern to Alice.

I tried calling again; but there was no answer.

An attempt to reassure Janet, Maybe she and Robert went out for lunch.

Before Janet could respond, it was time for a lunch break. As Alice and Janet were walking through the hotel lobby, there was an announcement.

Would Janet Langley please come to the desk. You have a phone call.

Both Janet and Alice ran to the desk. I’m Janet Langley.

The desk clerk advised, Please pick up the service phone."

Janet ran to the phone, picked it up, Hello

Is this Janet Langley.

This is Captain Avery at the fire station. First, I want to reassure you that you mother is okay. Unfortunately, her house burned to the ground last night. Fortunately, a fireman rescued both your mother and Robert just in time.

Where is she now?

She had quite a scare and she’s under sedation. As far as I know, she’s okay. Your mother is quite strong for her age. Call the hospital in the morning. Also, her friend, Robert is fine.

Janet and Alice caught the next flight home. As soon as they landed, they drove to the hospital. Janet found out which room her mother was in and she ran down the corridor. Alice followed. Janet quietly opened the door and found her mother sleeping. Somewhat relieved, Janet decided to stay at the hospital while Alice went home.

Janet fell asleep in the chair. The nurse walked in and she gently nudged Janet and said, Your mother is up.

Janet opened her eyes, Is my mother okay

She’s fine. Just breathed in a little smoke. She’s strong and she’s quite alert for her age.

Her mother sat up, looked at Janet, I thought you were in New York.

After kissing her on the cheek, Mom, I heard about the fire. Sorry about the house. I’m grateful that you and Robert are okay.

A very nice, brave fireman saved both of us.

Thank God. Did you get his name? I want to personally thank him.

I didn’t; but you’ll have that opportunity tomorrow. Robert and I invited him and the captain for dinner at Robert’s new place.

That’s very thoughtful. When will you be leaving the hospital. Probably in an hour or so.

Good, I’ll call a cab and to take you to Robert’s place. Then, I’ll do a little shopping for you. You need new clothes.

I certainly do.

The following evening, mother wore her new dress and she looked quite elegant. Robert put on his new suit. They were dressed in their best for two very special guests. Janet decided to wear her favorite dress. The table was set and the three anxiously waited in the living room for their two guests to arrive.

The door bell rang. Robert got up to welcome the two guests. They followed Robert into the living room. Mother was the first to greet them. But Janet and Frank were both at first stunned and speechless until they both broke out in laughter.

Mother and Robert were puzzled. Mother asked, Am I missing something?

Janet went over to her mother, kissed her on the cheek. Mom, this is Frank, the person who called!

After a few moments of silence, mother smiled and she nodded her head with approval, I’ve learned something tonight. What really matters is what’s inside a person.

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Carol’s Journey

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CHAPTER ONE

It was a clear and cool, spring morning, the most desirable season of the year in Chicago. Even though the neighborhood consisted mostly of poor immigrants from Poland, the people enjoyed listening to their rich heritage as well as to the classics. Music was a temporary escape from the harsh realities they faced daily. The sound of the recorded classics often filtered through an open window of an apartment on the second floor of an old, red brick building. Also, the delightful notes from a piano brought smiles to people passing by.

Similar to other ethnic groups, parents made a point to teach their children their native language and to continue their Polish customs, including traditional Polish cooking. Most of the immigrants learned to speak and write English; which helped them find employment. Immigrants were grateful to live in America because they had more freedom, government stability and opportunities to improve their lives.

Inside the two-bedroom apartment lived Joseph, who was sitting in his favorite chair reading the Sunday newspaper. While his matronly wife, Anna, was occupied with knitting a sweater for her only grandchild. The daughter, Carol, was sitting on a brown, fabric sofa, holding her eight-month son, Martin, on her lap while she was feeding him with a bottle of milk. After Martin emptied the bottle, Carol put her sleepy son in his crib. She then went to an old, upright piano in the living room and sat on the oak bench. Carol affectionately patted the piano and then opened the keyboard cover. She began playing an instrument she loved from the time she took her first lesson at the age of six. Her piano teacher of ten years, recognized Carol’s natural talent and she hoped that the public would be given the opportunity to listen to her play. The teacher even went so far as to try to arrange an audition with the Chicago Symphony; but she never got a response.

Anna looked at the clock on the fireplace mantle, put down her knitting needles and announced, We have to get ready for church. Carol, you can practice playing the piano after we return from church.

Joseph reluctantly put down the newspaper and slowly got up out of his comfort zone. They all quickly dressed in their Sunday best. Anna straightened Joseph’s tie and they were ready to carry out a family tradition. Carrying her baby, Carol walked alongside her parents. It was a common sight to see many families walking to the nearby church.

The roast chicken with potatoes, mother had prepared before leaving for church, was done when the family returned home.

Carol helped her mother set the table.

Anna told Carol to tell father that it was time to eat.

She went into the living room. Dad, it’s time to eat.

He put down the newspaper’s sport section and eased out his chair. Before he left the living room, he turned on the phonograph and placed a record on the turntable. Roast chicken and soothing music on a Sunday afternoon was an ideal setting and a traditional day of reprieve and grace for those living in a crowded, poor neighborhood. Sunday was not only a day of rest; but it helped the people endure the hardships that often occurred in their neighborhood.

As anticipated, the harsh realities of survival usually appeared on Monday mornings. A few years after the end of World War II, South Chicago became a high crime area. The growing crime rate continued to plague the area in spite of the valiant efforts made by the police department and the concerned residents. With easy access to guns, gang warfare claimed the lives of many young men of different ethnic groups. Parents protected their children the best they could; but anytime people left the protection of their homes, they were at risk of being hit by stray bullets that tragically ended the lives of the innocent.

Many of the unemployed, the mentally ill and the very poor of all ages had no choice but to live in dilapidated housing where hot water and heat during the freezing winters were scarce. Also, many people had no choice but to live out in the open. They did what they could to survive the hot, humid summers and the relentless, cold winter winds off of Lake Michigan.

Carol was a young, teen age mother who had to quit school when she became pregnant. She was quite shy and sensitive. She would sacrifice her own feelings to avoid hurting someone else. Carol now felt that she was a great burden on her parents and she often thought about leaving home. Soon after Martin was born, the father, who was addicted to drugs, died from an overdose. His wealthy parents showed no concern for Martin and did not want to have any connection with Carol or her family.

During breakfast, Carol’s mother said, Now that Martin is through nursing, you should be looking for work. I can bottle-feed him.

After a slight pause, Carol looked up and asked, Where do you suggest I find work? I didn’t finish high school and no one will hire me.

"I know you tried.