The Legacy: The Nelson Family

By Paul Zentmyer

Joe Nelson is dying of colon cancer. He has very little time left, which is why he invites his favorite grandson Jack to visit. Joe’s wife died three years earlier, but together, they made a final decision: upon their deaths Jack would inherit everything – and “everything” is a sizeable amount.

Jack has been at odds with most of his family his entire life, except for his grandparents, who were always there to support and encourage him. Jack spent many summers at his grandparents’ house; it felt like home. Now, shockingly, he has been given a centuries-old legacy that he must keep secret from the rest of his family or risk losing everything.

Inheriting his grandparents’ estate changes Jack’s life. He goes from being a visitor to a full time resident of their small Virginia town. He falls in love, realizes the importance of friendship and discovers a purpose for his life that he never expected.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Archway Publishing
• Release date: Feb 22, 2022
• ISBN: 9781665717595

Paul Zentmyer

Paul Zentmyer has always been an avid reader and wrote many short stories when he was younger. Paul and his wife live in Amherst County, Virginia, where they are enjoying retired life with their two dogs.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Joe sat at his desk waiting for his grandson to arrive. Of all his family members this one was the most dependable. While the other seven grandchildren led their lives and basically forgot about him, this grandson never failed to call him or send a note just to say hello. On holidays he would visit his grandfather and spend quality time with him. The others would show up for a few days, more absorbed in their gadgets and personal endeavors, then leave with only the smallest of goodbyes. But with Jack, it was almost as though he didn’t want to leave, as though his grandfather were the most important thing in his life. His three children rarely came by to visit, and when they did it was more like having vultures hanging around waiting for him to die.

Jack was the middle of three children from his youngest son. The boy was tall and lean, like his grandfather, with translucent blue eyes that would draw you in and make you shiver. Jack had this way of looking at you that seemed as though he were looking through or past you. It unnerved a lot of people.

Since the age of eight, Jack had spent every summer with his grandparents. They loved him unconditionally and never judged him. For some reason known only to Jack, their home had an appeal to him; almost as though it was the most perfect spot on earth. His parents used to hang it over his head if his school grades began to dip. After the age of ten, though, that wasn’t necessary; his grades were nothing but perfect through his school years.

Joe’s wife had died three years earlier. It was sudden and in her sleep, a massive heart attack. They had been together for 62 years. As usual, Jack was the only one who showed any sincerity for his loss.

Jack had loved his grandmother as much as Joe had. The rest of the family just prattled on about how nice she was and that perhaps Joe should think about a retirement home instead of staying in this big empty house.

But he knew the real reasons behind their false sincerity—what they would get when he sold the house. That was about all they cared about.

Jack was late. It was 9:30 and he still hadn’t arrived. Where was that boy? Boy. He was in his early thirties and working hard in the career he had desired all his life, aerospace. Though not an astronaut, he was doing what came best to him, which gave him contentment. Jack’s schooling was in mechanical engineering. From an early age he could build anything he thought of and often without any plans or diagrams. Just tell him what you wanted and he’d break out his tools and get to work.

Work was something that came easily to Jack. While his siblings and cousins groused at any type of manual labor, Jack acted as though it was the greatest thing on earth. Perhaps that was why he and Joe got along so well; Jack knew the value of hard work and the gratification of a job done well.

Joe reached down and opened the top right drawer of the desk and pulled it out about halfway. Then he reached in and with his middle finger found the button that opened the compartment on the underside of the desktop. He removed the envelope, laid it on the desk, secured the compartment and closed the drawer. What was in the envelope was for Jack and no one else. This was the reason he had asked Jack to visit.

He turned his chair to look out the window. It was mid-October and the sun was setting earlier every day. Then he spotted the headlights coming down the road and turning into the driveway. He was here.

Joe got up and went to the front door and waited for Jack to ring the bell. He opened the door and there stood Jack, looking every bit like his grandfather.

Hi Grandpa, Jack said. Sorry I’m late. How’re you doing?

Joe reached out and hugged him. I’m fine, boy, now that you’re here. Come in and have a seat. Want anything to drink?

«Just a cup of coffee if you have some on," said Jack. Of course, he knew his grandfather always had a pot of coffee going. Joe walked to the kitchen and began making Jack some coffee.

Like his grandfather, Jack liked his with a little sugar and half and half—no fancy flavored cream, only plain half and half. It sort of represented Jack’s life; simple and straightforward.

Are you sure you can stay for the week? I’m not taking you from any of your projects, am I?

No Grandpa. I’ve got nothing pressing going on, and besides, I haven’t taken any vacation time for quite a while. The boss had no problem letting me have the week. So, what’s up?

Well, I want to talk with you about some things and get your opinion on others. I also have some things I need to do around the property. Nothing big, they just need to get done, said Joe.

Okay, do you want to talk here or in the living room?

Actually, in my study.

Well, let’s go then, Jack said as they got up from the kitchen table. Jack let his grandfather go first, then he followed him down the hall to the study. He always liked the study. It had those big bay windows with a cushioned seat under them. The wall across from the doorway was all handmade bookshelves in a deep dark walnut. The doorway had huge pocket doors that were open most of the time. Then there was the desk in the middle of the room with bookshelves behind it. Grandpa had a great collection of books that ranged from fiction to poetry to do-it-yourself, with a little science fiction thrown in for fun. There were even a few books on philosophical subjects, though fewer of those than the science fiction. Jack had spent many a night and rainy day sitting in one of the high-back chairs reading. The study gave Jack a sense of security, something he never felt at home.

Joe sat in one of the high-back chairs and Jack pulled up his favorite chair to sit across from his grandfather. Joe reached across the desk and picked up the envelope, holding it in his hand for a moment before turning back to Jack and holding it out to him. Jack looked at the envelope then at his grandfather. What’s this? he asked.

Open it and read, said Joe. Jack turned the envelope over and flipped up the flap, took out the papers and opened them. They were legal documents, drawn up by his grandfather’s lawyer. He started reading.

It took him a few minutes, in silence, to get through them all, not because they were written in legal jargon but because of the subject and details.

When finished, he looked at his grandfather with a questioning look then looked between the papers and his grandfather a few times before the words would come to him.

Why? he asked.

Good, Joe thought. He asked the right question. Jack, I’m dying.

Tears welled up in Jack’s eyes as he looked at his grandfather. Of course, you’re dying, we’re all dying. But you still have plenty of time left. You’re in good physical and mental shape. You’re still able to drive and get around. What aren’t you telling me?

I have colon cancer. The doctor noticed some changes in my tests during my last physical and ordered a colonoscopy. He gave me a year at the most, and that was three months ago.

But what is all of this? said Jack as he waved the papers in the air.

Jack, I’ve watched you grow up. Watched your siblings and cousins too. Of all you children, you are the only one I trust to take care of this property.

What about the deed to the house and property?

"Jack, when you turned twenty-five, your grandmother and I discussed this and decided, together, that we would leave everything to you. You were the only grandchild who showed any genuine affection toward us and appreciated being with us. All your life you’ve been a responsible and caring person. The others have only looked out for themselves.

"It wasn’t until after your grandmother died that I realized I couldn’t just leave it to you in my will. I saw and heard the greed in the rest of the family. All they cared about was what they would get out of the property when I died. They even tried talking me into a retirement home so they could get it sooner. No, it must be this way. I’ve put the deed for the house and property in your name now for a few reasons.

"First, when the family finds out I’m sick and dying they will do everything they can to take this place from me. I can’t go through that; it’ll only weaken me to fight them like that. Second, by giving you the property now instead of in my will you won’t have to pay any inheritance tax, which I understand is quite high. I’ve discussed all of this with my attorney, and he has assured me that all of this is legitimate and legal. The rest of the family cannot take you to court over it. By the way, my attorney is now your attorney. He has been on retainer with me for quite a few decades and I’ve already paid for his services for at least another decade. If you don’t want his services, let him know in writing and he will help you find someone else. But be aware, you will need an attorney.

This is your property now, Jack. The only thing remaining is for you to meet Sean Ryan, sign the paperwork and go over a few other documents. Those documents have to do with me staying on in this house until I die. That is the only stipulation I have for putting the deed in your name. That deed you have in your hand is not legal until you meet with him and sign the paperwork. He will be here tomorrow morning. After he finishes with you, we will have some other things to discuss. And Jack, this stays between you, me and Sean. It will not be revealed to the rest of the family until the reading of my will. Understand?

Yes, Grandpa, but you know the rest of the family will hate me for this. They will say that I coerced you into doing it.

Jack, I’m sure you know that they already dislike you. All that time you’ve spent with us over the years, how your parents tried to stop it and the special treatment I’ve shown you over the years have led to their dislike of you. The only difference now is that they will be a lot more open about it. And when they are, you will then see what your family is like, and you won’t worry about how they feel about you. Jack, I am embarrassed and ashamed of what my children and grandchildren have become, present company excluded. Don’t be concerned about them.

Grandpa, I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around this. Your dying I can accept because we all die. But the rest of it has really thrown me.

I know, Jack. But tomorrow things will get a little clearer after you speak with Sean and after we talk some more. Get some rest and I’ll see you in the morning.

Jack hugged his grandfather and went upstairs to his room. There were six bedrooms upstairs and he was at the end of the hall. Years ago, when his parents visited, they would put him in that room away from everyone else as though he was not acceptable to their company. They would belittle him to his brother and sister, and when his cousins were there, to them too. He was treated as though he was less than everyone else. What they failed to realize was that Jack preferred his own company to theirs. He didn’t fight with them, disrespect them or annoy them. He simply didn’t accept their evaluation of him. Perhaps that annoyed his parents and the other adults in the family the most. His grandparents didn’t buy into their attitude. They often spoke out in his defense whenever his parents would start on him. They eventually left him alone whenever they were at his grandparents’ house.

The choice of rooms for Jack was a joke that was lost on his parents. Though the room was away from them, it was the best room on the second floor. Jack had windows on two walls, which gave him a view of most of the surrounding countryside. He could see for miles, and one view gave him beautiful sunsets each night. It was small—only enough room for one single bed, a nightstand and a dresser—which was perfect, because that meant there was no room for anyone else when his cousins visited. It was his room and his alone. When he started spending summers there, his grandparents tried to get him to take another room but soon realized how happy he was and let him be.

Jack unpacked his bag and put everything in the dresser then undressed, turned off the light and got into bed. He lay there for a while thinking about all that had gone on just a few minutes ago. Eventually, he fell asleep.

Chapter 2

Jack woke to the aroma of bacon, his most favorite smell in the world. He glanced over at the alarm clock, which he had forgotten to set, and quickly got dressed, went into the bathroom, washed his face and brushed his teeth. Then he ran down the stairs and into the kitchen. Joe was at the stove finishing up the scrambled eggs. Jack, would you get the butter out of the fridge and start some toast? he asked.

Sure, Grandpa. Light as usual?

Yep, his grandfather replied.

Jack put four slices of bread into the toaster and pushed the button down to start the elements heating then began setting the table. Next, he went over to the refrigerator to get the orange juice and half and half. There was no orange juice. What gives, Grandpa, no orange juice.

Oh, I switched to water earlier this year. It seems to be doing me a lot better than the acid in that orange juice. You want coffee, Jack?

Sure.

After everything was placed on the table, they bowed their heads for a prayer of thanks then began eating.

Breakfast was usually a quiet meal. Having just gotten out of bed, there wasn’t much to talk about. So, they sat and ate in quiet contemplation. The morning sun was coming through the open windows with a slight breeze filled with bird songs and other nature sounds. A perfect morning.

After breakfast, they cleaned up the table and kitchen, refilled their coffee cups and headed for the front porch. This was a ritual that Jack’s grandparents had been doing all their lives. But after his grandmother died, Grandpa had stopped. Jack was having nothing of that, and each time he visited he would go out to the porch to sit with his coffee. Eventually, his grandfather would join him and continued doing it even when Jack wasn’t there.

They sat in the oversized rockers, coffee in hand, and watched as cars went up and down the road.

What time is Mr. Ryan supposed to get here? asked Jack.

Oh, sometime around nine-thirty, replied Joe.

Jack looked at his watch; it was 8:45. We got a little time; is there something you want to talk about?

No, said Joe, nothing that we would be able to finish before he arrives, and I don’t like to leave things unsaid that long. We’ll talk after he leaves. That way we can take all day if we have to.

So, they sat on the porch rocking and watching the road and listening to the birds and bugs around them. One of them would comment about the weather, or Grandpa would mention something about the neighborhood. Mostly they just waited.

At about 9:30, a car pulled into the driveway. Sean was here at last. Joe stood up at the rail and waited for him to get out of his car. He wasn’t a big man, nor did he look that old, maybe in his early sixties with a touch of gray in his hair. He stood about five feet seven inches tall with light sandy hair. His car was nothing fancy or extravagant, a basic mid-size sedan. His suit wasn’t expensive looking either, but it was well-made and well-kept. He impressed Jack as someone who put his clients first but was presentable enough that he wasn’t looked upon as a shady or shyster type of lawyer. His stance and posture spoke of someone who knew what he was doing and that you would want to represent you. Jack hadn’t yet met Sean but knew he would like him.

Sean stepped onto the porch and shook Joe’s hand then turned to Jack, introducing himself. Jack shook his hand, noticing it was neither too strong nor weak but left you with an impression of power and confidence.

How about we go to my study and get things started, said Joe.

Jack opened the door and let the two older men go first then followed them into the hallway.

Well, Joe, did you give Jack the envelope yet? asked Sean.

I did, last night. I think he is still processing the whole thing.

As he should be, stated Sean. Jack, do you have any questions?

Jack looked at Sean and said, Mr. Ryan, I have a lot of questions, but first let me hear what you have to say and maybe some of them will be answered.

Fair enough, said Sean. They walked into the study and Joe went into the kitchen to wait until they were done.

They sat and talked for about half an hour. Jack absorbed everything Sean had to tell him. By the time their conversation was over, he had a better understanding of what his grandfather had done. He couldn’t say he approved, but now he understood why.

Sean got out of his chair, collected his paperwork and began putting everything into his briefcase. When he finished, he shook Jack’s hand and reminded him that he was available whenever Jack needed him. They walked out of the study and met Joe in the hall and walked to the front door together. Sean said his goodbyes and went to his car. Joe and Jack stood on the porch watching until he pulled onto the road and disappeared toward town.

Let’s go back into the study, Jack. I have some things to discuss with you and to show you.

When they got back into the study, Jack went to his chair, but Joe said to him, Don’t sit down yet. Come over here around the desk.

Jack walked around the desk and his grandfather motioned for him to sit in the desk chair. Jack complied. Now, open the top right drawer but only about halfway. Good. Now reach into the drawer with your palm up and to the right-hand side. Do you feel that indentation? Push it. As soon as Jack did, the compartment opened. Jack bent down to investigate it. There was nothing there, but he just wanted to see what it looked like.

Now close the compartment by just pushing up on it. Jack did and was surprised that he didn’t hear any sound when it closed. Then he pushed the drawer closed.

Use that compartment for your personal papers or anything you don’t want others to see. No one else knows it’s there. No one knows anything about this desk, things I’m going to show you now. Come around to the front. See the compass rose in the center under the top? Slide it up until it stops then turn it clockwise a quarter turn.

As Jack finished turning it, he heard a sort of hushed sound to his right. What was that? he said.

Go look, said Grandpa. Jack walked around to his right and looked at the side of the desk. At first it didn’t appear that anything had happened, then he noticed that the sidewall of the desk wasn’t as tight as it had been. He pulled it toward him and the side slid toward the front, revealing a compartment behind the two left-side drawers. Inside there was a metal box and a small velvet bag, such as jewelry would come in. Go ahead, take them out. At first the box wouldn’t move, then Grandpa showed him how it was latched down so as not to rattle around when the desk was moved. Jack brought it out and set it on the desk. Grandpa produced the key which Jack took and opened the box.

Inside was a ring box that contained a set of rings that had belonged to his great-grandparents, along with a key. One ring was a 1.25-carat marquise cut diamond with two baguettes, one on either side. Next, Jack checked the velvet bag. In it was a cultured pearl necklace and a set of matching earrings.

Jack was awestruck. The pearls had been on his grandmother in the casket. But Joe had removed them before the cremation. Jack looked at his grandfather, who had a slight grin on his face. What’re you grinning about? he asked. There’s more, Joe added.

Okay, show me, said Jack.

Close that side panel please. Now go back to the compass rose and you’ll notice that once you close the panel, the compass rose will reset to its original location. Now push it up again and turn it counterclockwise a quarter turn.

As soon as Jack had done that, he heard the same sound but on the other side of the desk. He walked around to find another compartment exposed. There was another metal box similar to the first one. You can use this one same as I have the other side.

This is amazing, Grandpa. Where did you get the desk?

Long before you were born, I was at an estate sale and the desk was up for auction. The woodwork was beautiful, so I decided to bid on it. As it turned out, there was only one other bidder, and he wasn’t all that serious about it so I got the desk. That was when I found out about the compartments. The owner was there, and she gave me the secrets of the desk. It had been her husband’s and he had it custom-made. Where I don’t know. She never told me that. But she gave me handwritten instructions on how to operate it. I committed those instructions to memory then destroyed the piece of paper. So, Jack, over the next few months I’ll quiz you on the desk and make sure you remember how to operate it. How about we talk about the house and property now?

Okay, Grandpa, but how about lunch first?

Sure Jack, said Grandpa. Let’s go.

Chapter 3

As they walked into the kitchen, Joe went to the refrigerator and Jack to the breadbox on the counter. Together they brought everything they needed for a couple of sandwiches with chips. They sat quietly eating and enjoying the breeze coming through the kitchen door. It was a nice, quiet, cool fall day. After lunch they cleaned up and went back into the study.

Anything else I should know about the desk? Jack asked.

Well, first show me how to open the left side compartment, then I’ll tell you.

Jack went over to the desk, slid the compass rose up, giving it a quarter turn to the left. The left compartment opened.

«Okay, Grandpa, we’ve gone over the desk. What else did you want to talk to me about?"

Oh, there is so much I need to talk to you about but give me a minute to sort it out in my head and I’ll get started. How about we take a walk? Joe asked as he walked toward the kitchen door.

They stepped out into the backyard, which was now sunny and warm, the sun well past noon and heading toward the western horizon. For being fall in the Virginia mountains, it was a little warmer than usual. Joe started walking west in the yard toward the back of the property. Jack knew almost all the forty acres his grandfather owned, which he now owned. There was about a three-acre area to the southwest that was wooded and appeared as though it was ignored by his grandfather. The trees were tall, mostly hardwoods but young; there were no old-growth trees in the bunch like along the back of the property.

Well, are you coming with me? asked Joe.

Sure, Grandpa, just looking around a bit. I haven’t been here for a few months, said Jack.

Well, nothing has changed except perhaps the grass needs cutting. But I have someone who does that for me now. I don’t get around as well as I used to, Joe said as he continued walking toward the woods.

They walked for about 10 minutes until they reached the small, wooded section of the property. Joe stopped and seemed to be looking for something.

«Whatcha looking for Grandpa?"

Oh, nothing. Just getting my bearings. There is a small path here somewhere.

Joe turned and faced toward the house then turned back toward the woods and looked a little to his right. He took two steps in that direction and peered into the woods again. Yep, there it is, he said. Sure enough, there was a faint path going into the woods, looking like it hadn’t been used in years. Jack knew he had never seen it. He hadn’t come back this far into the property in years. It had been when he was fourteen and his brother Randy had come along. They were in the yard playing when Randy noticed the woods and wanted to see what was back there. Of course, Jack didn’t feel they should. Their grandfather had never forbidden them from going into the woods, but he had never encouraged the kids either. Whenever Jack had mentioned the woods, Joe had merely evaded the subject. That told Jack not to go back there.

Come on, said Joe, There’s something I want to show you. So they started into the woods along the path Joe had seen. As they went further into the woods, the path widened and became more noticeable, with trees and bushes along it creating a lane of sorts. Jack looked around at the trees around him. None of them were over 50 years old, were all hardwoods and though not in rows looked as though they had been planted instead of grown naturally. Suddenly, they were in a clearing with rich green grass.

This is the site of our first house on the property. When I bought it I did so intending to build another house closer to the road. This house was a small single-story with only two bedrooms. I knew we’d be starting a family so wanted something to allow for it plus room for expansion. After we built that house I tore this one down. After tearing down the house I had this huge hole in the ground that was lined with stone. The previous owner had used it to do their canning and for storage. Before demolishing the house, it occurred to me that it would be a good idea to salvage the cellar and repurpose it. For a few years we used it to store foodstuffs and supplies we would need in case of an emergency. I guess today you would call us preppers. Once the house was gone I put a peaked roof over the hole and an entrance so we could get inside. The electricity was still in place so I rigged up a few more lights. As time went on I decided to fill it in.

Jack walked with his grandfather back to the house. As they approached Joe began talking about it.

When I first built this house there were only four bedrooms, all upstairs, and the kitchen was at the back of the house. At the time four bedrooms were enough. But when your parents were married I realized we’d need more room for when people visited. So, I had an addition built onto the back of the house which gave us two more bedrooms upstairs and a large room beyond the kitchen that we turned into our bedroom. I also had the garage built.

It was now mid-afternoon, and the shadows were getting longer. They walked through the house into the study and sat down in the two armchairs.

«That basement gave me another idea. Sort of a bomb/emergency shelter. At the time there was a big scare about the Russians and Cubans attacking so bomb shelters were a rage. So it was easy to have one put in without raising suspicions. There were a lot of people doing it in the area. I could point you to at least ten other properties with old bomb shelters. So, as I had it built I also tore down that roof over the old basement and had the hole filled with the excess dirt. Later I started planting trees around that location. Originally just planted randomly but after a few years I started being a little more organized in how and where I planted. I thought about that area often and finally decided to leave that field empty, sort of a little secret garden where you can go sit in the grass and just enjoy the nature around you.

Let’s just relax for the rest of the afternoon. Want some lemonade?

Sure, Grandpa. Where do you want to sit?

How about on the front porch, he answered.

Okay, replied Jack.

Joe took down two glasses from the cabinet and filled them with lemonade. Jack took one and Joe the other and they walked to the front door and onto the porch and sat looking at the road.

As Jack sat contemplating all he had experienced that day, he noticed a car slowing down on the road and then turning into the driveway. He wondered who it was.

Who’s that, Grandpa?

I have no idea, Jack.

The car came to a stop behind Jack’s, the driver’s door opened and his older brother Randy stepped out. Great, thought Jack. I wonder what he wants. Randy closed the car door and waved to his grandfather and brother. Hi Grandpa, hi Jack. He crossed the lawn and walked toward the stairs. How’ve things been?

Oh, I’m doing well. How about you, brother?

I wasn’t talking to you, Jack. I was talking to Grandpa, he said with a smirk on his face.

Enough of that, Randy. If you can’t be civil to your brother then just get back in that car and leave. I don’t have the time nor the patience for any of that business right now. Understood?

Randy lowered his head. Yes sir. I was just messing with him. I wasn’t being mean.

Come up here and give me a hug.

Aww. Grandpa, that’s for kids.

Is that so? What were you just acting like a minute ago? Besides, as infrequently as you and the rest of the family come around you never know if it might be the last hug you get from me.

Jack about freaked. He knew his grandfather didn’t want the rest of the family to know, so why did he say that? He looked at Randy but apparently it had gone right over his head, and he hadn’t noticed Jack’s expression either. That was close. Jack turned away as Randy hugged their grandfather. Randy might have thought his action was about him, but it was really to compose himself.

His grandfather let go of Randy and turned toward the front door, We may as well go in the house. Not enough chairs out here to sit. Let’s go sit in the living room.

Jack knew his grandfather always preferred his study over the living room, but his brother didn’t know that. Was his grandfather slighting his brother? A little smirk came to Jack’s face as he considered that.

So, what brings you up here this fine fall weekend? asked Grandpa.

Well, I hadn’t seen you in the last year, and I also heard from Mom that Jack was going to be here, and since I haven’t seen him even longer I thought it would be good to see you both together.

What about your sister and cousins? How are they?

Oh, I see them all the time since they live so close. Jack lives way out on the Eastern Shore, and you know how much a trip that can be. Randy looked at Jack and shrugged slightly as if to say, oh well. Jack wasn’t bothered by it. He preferred they stay away. Bunch of ingrates.

Well, what do you boys want for dinner? I need to get it out now.

Randy perked up and a smile lit up his face. How about I take you both out to dinner? I want to celebrate and who better than family?

What are we celebrating? asked Jack.

My promotion. I topped the sales goals for the whole year and was promoted for it and got that nice little car out there. The agency is also thinking of giving me my own sales region.

Wow, the DC area must be hopping for real estate right now. What region are you in? asked Grandpa.

I’m inside the beltway, but they want me to take something up around Leesburg. A lot of people would rather commute into DC than live there, and Leesburg is the hot spot right now.

Well, that’s something. You’re coming up in the world. Before you know it you’ll own the company.

Nothing so grandiose, Grandpa. Besides, too much of a headache and responsibility. My own little region would be fine. So, how are things going with you, Jack? NASA treating you well?

I’m not with NASA and haven’t been for three years. I’m working with a private company developing rockets and capsules. You should think about investing. I give it a year or so and our stock will be out the roof.

Nah, I’m not into the stock market. Too risky for my blood. I’ll stick with real estate. Good solid ground. So, Grandpa, what’ve you been up to?

Oh, nothing much. Just relaxing and piddling around with some of my hobbies. I’ve been getting some fishing in. The trout have been running strong this year.

So, where are we going for dinner? Jack asked.

I passed a little restaurant on the way through town. How about there? asked Randy.

You mean Irene’s place. She’s got great food and the prices are fair, said Grandpa.

Okay then, let’s go. Jack, can we use your car? Mine is a little small for the three of us.

Sure, no problem.

They got into Jack’s car and drove back toward town. Jack turned into Irene’s and around the building to the parking lot. They walked around to the front. As they entered, Irene noticed them and greeted Joe with a smile and a wave. He responded.

Seat yourselves, said Irene. Someone will be with you in a minute.

Joe led the boys to a table, and a waitress named Janice came by and took their drink order and handed them menus. She glanced at Jack and gave a little smile. Jack sat across from his grandfather and Randy to his left. He watched her walk away. She had a nice figure and used it well. Her hair was brown with small natural streaks of blond mixed in. He figured she was about two inches shorter than him.

Janice returned with their drinks and asked for their food choices. After placing their orders, the waitress left and Joe looked at Randy. Then Jack asked Randy, So, what are your plans? You told us about the possibility of your own region. What do you want?

Well, I’ve been working in the DC region for quite a while, but I think it’s time I struck out on my own.

Grandpa sat there thinking a few moments then said, Is this an existing region or new?

Randy looked at Grandpa with a deer-in-the-headlights expression. What’s it matter?

It matters a lot. Do you want to succeed?

Of course I want to succeed. What kind of question is that?

"A particularly important question concerning success. If it’s an existing region, how many agents will you have working for you? Did any of them get passed over so you could have the position? Are they go-getters or just followers? These people can make or break you. If you don’t have their respect and cooperation, then you will fail.

If it’s a new region, how much latitude do you have in hiring? Do you know how to interview to get the information you’ll need to hire the right people? Where do you locate your central office and any satellite offices? Will the company give you the resources necessary to start the new venture, or will you be required to ‘buy in’ for the startup?

Wow, Grandpa, I hadn’t thought of much of that. I just assumed they would send me out there and it would be mine to run. But to answer some of your questions, it is an existing region but with plans to expand. I’ve actually met some of the agents out there while showing a customer some properties, and they seemed to be go-getters, as you put it, but didn’t like me coming out there. They expected me to send the customer to them. So, there might be some animosity there. Overall, though, the agents are fairly good and all are willing to work. I will ask, though, for employee records and go over their evals and sales records. Perhaps there’s room for improvement without letting anyone go. I’ll also check on my operating budget, the expansion plans and see about having someone come out to do any interviews; someone unbiased and unrelated to the area. Thanks for the info, Grandpa.

Any time, son. I wouldn’t want to see you get in over your head.

Randy looked pleased with himself for getting Grandpa’s interest and approval. At least what he thought was approval. Janice showed up with their meals and they started eating and talked a bit.

Randy looked at Jack and asked, So, you finally decided to take some time off? How long are you staying? Jack looked over at his grandfather and replied, Well, Grandpa and I have planned to get some work done around the house, get firewood cut for the winter and get some supplies in before any bad weather sets in. It’s going to be a bad winter this year. We thought to start with the firewood. There are a couple of deadfalls in the woods that I could cut up. With you here it would go a lot quicker. What do you say, Randy? Wanna help?

Randy’s face lost a bit of color. Jack could see he was remembering that scare he had in the woods all those years ago. Actually, I won’t be here past tomorrow. I have a meeting back in DC on Tuesday, and after what Grandpa spoke about perhaps it would be best if I got on some of those items. Sorry, Jack. I guess you’ll have to do it by yourself.

Jack just smiled and said, Aww, don’t worry Randy. I can handle it. I have for quite a few years already. We’ll be fine. You’re right, though, you do need to get working on things for your new position. I hope it all works out for you.

They continued their meal as Randy filled them in on what the rest of the family was doing. Jack sat quietly and listened while Randy talked away. He was always a talker and usually about himself. As they were finishing up, the waitress came over, laid the bill on the table, and walked away. Randy picked it up, looked at it and pursed his lips with a little grin. Not a bad price for a halfway decent meal. He reached into his pocket, took out thirty dollars and laid it on the table along with the bill. Jack noticed the total and that his brother left barely enough for a decent tip. As Randy and Grandpa headed for the door, Jack reached into his pocket and dropped another ten dollars on the table. As he looked up he noticed Janice looking at him and he smiled at her. She smiled back and nodded her head slightly as though to thank him for the additional tip. He caught up with them as they were reaching the door.

They drove back to the house, Randy prattling on about something, he and Grandpa barely listening. Jack was pleased with his comment to his brother and that he had taken the bait. Randy had not even realized what Jack had done. With him leaving tomorrow, he and Grandpa could get back to what they were doing before Randy arrived. Jack was sure his mother had put his brother up to spying out why he was here. Well, Randy would go home empty-handed.

Jack pulled into the driveway and parked next to Randy’s car so as not to block him in. If he did that, he’d just have to come out and move so Randy could leave. Hopefully, that would be early instead of late tomorrow.

They walked to the kitchen. Joe filled the basket to the coffee pot with coffee grounds. It was an old percolator type with the basket on a stem that went inside the pot. Randy noticed it and commented, Why are you still using that old pot, Grandpa? The newer ones are much faster, and you can even get one that makes only a cup at a time. Joe never believed in replacing things that still worked well. He just shrugged his shoulders and said he was fine with the speed of things just the way they are and left it at that. Randy didn’t say anything more about it. Smart.

How about a game of cards while we wait for the coffee? Joe said. His favorite game was Rummy. He picked it up a few decades ago and couldn’t get enough of it. Whenever anyone came for a visit, he would break out the cards and start a game. After the second hand, the pot had finished making coffee, so they stopped for a few minutes while they made their cups. They sat back down and picked up where they had left off. Joe was beating both boys, but Randy was the most upset about it. Joe was a master at the game. After about the sixth hand, Randy was getting irritated, and by the ninth hand he was ready to quit.

This game is stupid, he said.

Why is that? asked Joe.

Because I can’t seem to get a good hand.

Joe looked at him and said, Your hand is what you make of it. In building your hand, you must work with the cards you are dealt instead of thinking ahead to what you might get dealt. Pretty much the same with your life or career.

Randy sat there with that deer-in-the-headlights look again. Like he had just heard this for the very first time and couldn’t figure out what Joe meant by it. He shrugged his shoulders and said, Whatever, Grandpa. I think I’ve had enough. You and Jack can go on without me. I think I’ll go up to my room and work on the computer. Maybe I can start on some of those ideas you gave me. All right?

Sure, Randy. Jack and I will be okay without you. What time do you want up in the morning?

My phone has an alarm. No need to wake me up.

Well, I need to figure out what time to start breakfast. What would you like to eat?

Oh, whatever you want to fix, Grandpa. I’m not much of a breakfast person.

As Randy left the kitchen and headed for the stairs, Jack rolled his eyes. What a jerk, he thought.

Chapter 4

Sunday

Sunday morning Joe was up early making scrambled eggs, sausage and toast for breakfast, enough for all three of them. If Randy didn’t eat then there was more for him and Jack. He heard Jack moving around upstairs and started the coffee.

Jack came down the stairs then turned into the kitchen. Still no sign or sound of Randy. They sat and ate and were halfway through when Randy finally made an appearance. He sat down next to Jack, yawned, and asked, What’s for breakfast? Jack just looked at him and thought of the comment last night about not caring much for breakfast. Scrambled eggs, sausage and toast, he answered.

I’ll just have coffee, answered Randy as he yawned again.

The pot is on the counter, creamer in the fridge, said Joe. You know where the mugs are.

Up late working? asked Joe.

No, just restless last night. Not used to the bed here.

Well, you’ll be in your bed tonight and probably more comfortable. By the way, when do you plan to leave?

Oh, about an hour or so. When I’m awake and have everything packed. Why? What’s the rush?

No rush, you just seemed anxious to get going today. I also want to get to work on that wood. Unless you want to stay and help. I’m sure Jack would appreciate the help.

Jack grinned slightly to himself as he watched Randy squirm a little in his seat.

No, no, I’ll get out of your hair. I know how much you and Jack enjoy that manual labor stuff. I’d just be in the way.

That manual labor stuff could do you some good, Joe snapped at him. Then his voice softened a bit. But you get going. You have a lot to prepare for.

Randy looked at his grandfather as though he’d just slapped him. He excused himself and went upstairs to pack. About half an hour later he came back down with his bags in hand.

Well, I guess I’ll get going, he said with a kind of dejected look on his face.

Joe hugged him. You come back when you have a little more time to spend. You’re always welcome here, son.

Jack walked his brother out to his car and helped him put the bags in the trunk. They gave each other a brotherly hug and Jack went back to the porch as Randy pulled out of the driveway.

They watched as the car went down the road and waited until they could no longer hear it then went back into the kitchen to finish breakfast and cleanup.

You don’t think I was too hard on him, do you? asked Joe.

No, I was just afraid he would change his mind and stay another day.

They both looked at each other and busted up laughing. Joe turned to Jack and said, Let’s give him about an hour, though, before we get back to what we were doing. I figure by that time he would have lost all desire to turn around and come back. Good story, by the way, about cutting wood. Especially since I haven’t used that fireplace in years and there is no deadfall in those woods.

Well, I had to think of something that would get him out of here, and we know how much he dislikes ‹manual labor’ and those woods. Did you see the look on his face when I mentioned the woods? I thought he was going to pee himself.

Joe just shook his head and chuckled a little. Come on, son, let’s go back to the study.

Randy drove away from the house with only a slight look in the rear view mirror. He felt angry and hurt; angry that his grandfather had treated him that way and hurt that he didn’t apologize for his outburst.

He checked his GPS to see how long it would take him to get home. Two and a half hours. He reached up to the dash and pressed the hands-free button. Call Mom cell, he said. He waited while the phone rang. It went to voicemail so he hung up. Not even a minute later his phone rang and he pressed the button again. Hi Mom.

Hi Honey, sorry I missed your call but I was indisposed. Why couldn’t she just say she was in the bathroom?

That’s all right. I’m on my way home. I decided not to stay as long.

Why? Did something happen?

Not really. Grandpa and Jack have plans to get some work done around the house and I felt I would just be in the way. At least that’s how they made me feel.

I’m sorry, Honey. I’ll talk with your brother. He shouldn’t be treating you like that.

No, Mom, don’t. It’ll just make things worse for me with Grandpa. You know Jack’s his favorite.

So, did you find anything out? Why Jack was there?

No. Nothing specific but they did seem to want me out of there as quickly as possible.

Hmm, I’ll have to think on that a bit and maybe have your father take a ride up in a couple of weeks. Maybe he can get some info out of him.

I don’t know, Mom. You know how crafty Grandpa is. If he doesn’t want you to know something he won’t tell you. He’ll just tell you to mind your own business. I’d say leave it until Christmas when we’ll all be there and see how he acts then. Maybe we’ll learn something.

Okay, Randy, if you think that’s best.

I do. Well, I have to go so I can keep my eyes on the road. Love you, Mom.

Love you too. Bye.

Randy pressed the button to hang up. He had a two-hour drive ahead of him. Next week was going to be a busy one.

Joe and Jack sat in the two chairs in front of the desk. Joe leaned forward as he began to speak.

"Before we go down into the cellar, there are some things I want to talk to you about. First, don’t let your siblings or cousins get under your skin, but don’t put up with their crap. The same goes for your parents, aunts, and uncles. They are family and sometimes you have to bend with family. You never know when you may need them. I’ve had over fifty years to watch everyone, and I can tell you now they are going to get nasty with you. Watch your back. Don’t worry about what I might think of your responses to them. I’ll be dead. You will have to make decisions on your own and based on where you want your life to go. If you no longer want the family’s interference, then handle it appropriately. Just don’t back down.

"I’ve made certain arrangements with Sean concerning my will. It’s mostly about the small stuff—you know, jewelry, trinkets, and such. The kind of things the rest of the family would be concerned about. If there is anything specific you want, please let me know while you are here and I’ll make sure Sean puts that in the will. He will handle it.

There is more for you than this property, and Sean will explain about it after the reading of the will and after the rest of the family is gone. Don’t get concerned about it though. Just suffice it to say that it is already taken care of. Again, it will be explained later.

Joe sat back in his chair, crossing his right leg over his left knee. So, Jack, any women in your life? He grinned sheepishly.

Grandpa, that is a private matter. But no, not at this moment. Why do you ask?

Well, I saw you looking at Jan at the restaurant and I also saw her looking at you. I thought maybe there would be something there.

She is pretty and seems to be a nice person. But I guess you’d have to be working in the food-service business. I mean you can’t do that job and be a jerk.

Joe chuckled, "You’re right about that. You’re also right about her. She is a very nice young lady. I’ve known Janice for almost 20 years. She’s educated, thoughtful of others and doesn’t take crap from anyone. But she does it nicely. I saw what you did at the restaurant and appreciate you covering for your brother and seeing that she was properly compensated for her service. Your brother can be a real jerk sometimes.

Jan works hard and for good reason. A few years back she was getting ready to start on her master’s degree in accounting. She wanted to be a CPA. Her mother had a car accident and needed 24/7 care. Unfortunately, her medical insurance wouldn’t cover it all, so Jan came home to care for her. She figured she’d go back and pick up where she left off when her mother recovered. Her mother never recovered and died just about a year after the accident. Unfortunately, Jan didn’t have the money to cover all the medical bills and go back to school. So, she stayed here, took the job at Irene’s, and also works during tax season for the local CPA. She’s just now seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. All the medical bills and the mortgage are paid off, and she’s caught up on the utilities. It’s a shame that such a dedicated person has to go through something like that. A number of us in the community try to help out by eating at Irene’s at least a few nights a week and leaving Janice a larger tip than our meals warrant. We also send her anonymous monetary gifts during the year to help her out. I’m hoping she can get back to school soon and make a better life for herself.

Wow, Grandpa, sorry to hear that about her. If she’s half the person you say she is, she’ll get back on her feet in no time.

How about we head on down to the basement. I got a lot to show you.

They stood up from their chairs, stretched and walked toward the kitchen and to the door leading to the basement. Joe opened the door, flipped on the light switch and walked down the stairs. The basement was typical: shelving filled with holiday decorations, canning jars, house supplies, etc. It was nine feet high from floor to ceiling and was the full length and width of the house. There was an entrance from the outside on the west wall with shelves on either side. There was a door on the east wall. That was his grandmother’s room. Grandpa hadn’t opened it since she died.

Joe walked over toward the outside entrance and opened the door. But instead of going up the stairs he reached to the right-hand side of the door frame and pushed a small button that was well hidden next to the frame. The stairs moved up a bit as though a lock had just been released. Joe grasped the bottom step and lifted it. As he did the floor under the stairs also lifted, revealing another set of stairs going further down. Joe stood up, turned toward Jack and grinned. More secrets for you to see. Follow me. He walked down to the bottom of the stairs and flipped a light switch that illuminated a passageway. It was deeper than the basement and about ten feet high. Jack looked down the passage but couldn’t see the end. Don’t worry, Jack. The lights will come on as we walk along.

They began walking and in a few seconds came to another door that Joe opened using a keypad in the wall. You can reset this once you take possession of the house. It’s a manual key code, no electricity. I’ll leave instructions with the code.

The door clicked open and they walked into a brightly lit room. The walls looked like they were made of interlocking prefab panels. There were shelves and shelves of supplies. There was food, clothing, tools, household cleaners and supplies, toilet paper, kitchen utensils, pots and pans, portable stoves and fuel, lanterns, a generator and fuel, linens and towels. He looked around the room. He couldn’t believe all this was here. Grandpa wasn’t kidding when he said they had been collecting supplies for decades. Some of the stuff wasn’t even made anymore.

Joe walked along between the shelves toward the far wall. When he got there, he grabbed hold of the shelving unit and pulled. Jack hadn’t noticed but all the shelves were on wheels. He guessed to make it easier to reconfigure the room. As the shelf unit moved away from the wall, Joe pressed on the wall and the panel opened.

Joe looked at him and said, Remember that room I told you about yesterday? Well, we’re going into it. It’s on both sides of this hallway. I just put the hallway down the center to split it into smaller rooms on each side. Those are what we’re going to look at now.

After he pushed on the panel, it moved away and into the other room. Joe kept pushing and it swung to the left. He reached in and turned on the lights. Joe and Jack walked into another passageway.

He went halfway down the passage, stopped, turned right, and pushed on the wall. The section he pushed on slid open. The lights came on automatically. Jack looked around. It was a 20’ x 20’ room made into living quarters.

Joe glanced around then walked back into the passage, turned right, took three steps and turned left toward the wall and pushed again. The panel slid open and the lights came on. Jack walked in and was awed by what he saw. The room was filled with racks of gold and silver, mostly coins. There were also stacks of paper money, copper ingots and slugs and a few bins with precious gems and gold jewelry.

Joe looked at Jack and started laughing. You can close your mouth now, son. I’ll tell you all about it when we get back to the study.

They left the room and Joe closed it. They walked back the direction they came, through the other room, the passageway back to the basement and back up to the kitchen.

How about some coffee? asked Joe.

Sure, Grandpa. I need it after what I just saw.

Joe chuckled as he got the pot together and started the coffee.

So, how far down the road do you think Randy got before he called your mother?

Why do you say my mother?

Because she’s the Alpha in that house.

Yeah, I guess you’re right. I’d say he didn’t even get into town before he called her, said Jack.

Joe laughed at Jack’s comment. Coffee’s ready. Get yours and let’s go into the study.

They sat down in the chairs again. Joe turned his more toward Jack. He rested his left leg on his right knee and relaxed a bit.

So, I showed you a lot down there. Impressive huh?

"Impressive?