Dead End For Dollars

By Charles Huey

The twisty path leading to the murder of a family in San Diego. The police have very little evidence, believing they have the prime suspect in custody, which turns out to be the brother of one of the victims. A mysterious lawyer shows credentials for his release. The brother becomes the hunter to solve the murder of his sister, nephew, and niece. The mystery begins in San Diego and ends in New York.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Fulton Books, Inc.
• Release date: Jan 14, 2022
• ISBN: 9781638607359

Book preview

Chapter 1

The morning surfers were out early just as the thin rays of the sun glistened over the sparkling undulations of the ocean. The morning haze would be enduring until midmorning. Dennis had to be at the zoo by nine o’clock, enough time each morning for a few rides before work. Beach crowds would be arriving soon, staking out their territory for the day. He looked toward the other surfers, noticing a new surfer in the group. The girl was sitting on her board beyond the breakers, waiting for her next ride. He knew most of the early morning group all getting a couple of hours of surfing in before work. It had become a daily activity for Dennis.

These daily miracles of sunrise, early summer mornings were a renewal of life for him. Sitting on his board, watching as the sun began brightening the sky, he had paddled beyond the other surfers, waiting for the next satisfactory wave. The girl caught a large wave, heading toward shore. Dennis took the same wave, sliding down the face of the wave, placing him a little too close to the girl, cutting in front, pushing her off her board. The board sailed up into the air, coming down, missing her head. The Velcro surf leash secured to her ankle from the tail of the surfboard jerked as she disappeared under the water. She pushed her way to her board, rolling over, holding on to her board, sliding under the oncoming waves. She paddled out through the waves beyond the breakers, looking toward shore for the wise guy that cut her off.

He was on his board heading her way. She sat on her board as she ran her hands through the water, waiting for a confession from him. The calmness of the swells was relaxing; the only sound was of the waves curling up as they crashed, rolling toward the shore. Hannah thought it was magical this time of morning until the big head cut her off.

He glided through the water, paddling toward Hannah, smiling, thinking of some excuse he would present to her. Sitting upright on his board as he approached, suddenly words escaped him. She was silent, letting him speak the first words; he had none. He became aware of her smile forming a picture of her beauty. He became this gelatinous mess beginning to stammer.

Look, I’m not sure what to say. I could say I apologize. He was beginning to sound like a man-child. But that would miss the point, wouldn’t it. He stammered some more. Help me out here, say something.

Her bright smile continued, letting him talk his way through his confession.

She wasn’t going to let him off the hook so effortlessly. She lay down onto her board, watching for another wave. The swell built up, beginning to curl over. Dennis seized the opportunity for another ride, pushing off toward shore. She released her ankle strap, following closely behind Dennis.

He unexpectedly felt hands grasping each of his arms as she maneuvered them down the face of the wave, gliding toward shore. He was surprised, confused. Once they reached the conclusion of their ride, he felt a heavy push sailing him off into the water as she dove into the wave, her board bobbling ahead, landing onto the sand. Dennis was still attached to his board as it flew up in the air pointing down, missing him by several inches. After surfacing the water, he pulled himself onto his board, heading to shore.

He approached, fuming at what she did getting the better of him.

What the hell was that all about? he yelled as she walked away without a word.

He approached cautiously. Look, the stunt I pulled cutting you off was a stupid move on my part. I’m sorry that I dumped you off your board. It could’ve resulted in some pretty serious injury. Your act wasn’t called for, I’m sorry. I apologize. He waited. My name is Dennis, Dennis Westbrook.

She smiled. Apology accepted. No harm.

She was still silent as she picked her board up, tucking it under her arm, walking a short distance, setting her board down on the sand near the things she had left on the beach earlier. She took the band, holding her long hair in place, letting her hair fall over her shoulders. Facing the sun breaking through the clouds, she began the process of removing her wet suit, exposing a white bikini.

Dennis was standing a short distance away, calming himself, observing the scene unfolding before him. His curiosity was giving way to his anger at the stunt she had pulled. He became aware not only of her looks also but of the way she used her movements, removing her wet suit, beginning the application of the towel as she dried herself. Dennis watched as she went through the routine of pulling her sweatshirt over her head. He suddenly felt self-conscious staring at the sight of her. He wanted to know more about her.

Chapter 2

Do you live close by? I know I’m becoming a little forward. I haven’t seen you here before. By the way, my name is Dennis, Dennis Westbrook.

Yes, I know you said that before. With her amazing smile, she listened as he rattled on.

I’m here most mornings before work. It’s a pleasant way to start the day. Dennis was stammering for words to keep her attention. He was becoming shy. I haven’t seen you here before. I noticed the guys in the lineup were trying to get close to you. You are beautiful. I’m sure you’ve been told that a hundred times.

He was beginning to show his nervous side. He spoke in almost an inaudible voice. It sounded sweet, a little romantic to her. She had heard a hundred pickup lines that made her ill.

You are on the top of my list of things to do. I must be dead is this heaven. The one pickup line she hated to hear the most, Hi, you look great, what’s your sign.

She had heard a long list she didn’t want to remember. Dennis was different; he kept eye contact with her as he stammered his conversation with her. He was not looking at her breasts pushing out from the wet suit but locked on her eyes as he was stumbling through his method. He was firm in his conversation but shy also.

She finally spoke up. I usually surf over at Windansea or Bird Rock areas. I moved to Pacific Beach, so this is closer to where I live. She noticed he was sincere talking with her. Not like most guys that have a line.

Look, I’m trying to find the words. I would like to get to know you better. Dennis was fishing for her to say something of encouragement.

She was bundling up her things, throwing a wet suit over her shoulder.

She had meticulously removed her wet suit, exposing her tall slender body. The bikini she was wearing took Dennis by surprise as his concentration suddenly became aware of how fit she was, well-proportioned body. She had an energetic confidence about herself that suddenly focused his thoughts on her physically.

His breath caught in his mouth as he watched her. Her penetrating blue-green eyes were gentle on his. She ran her long slender fingers through her long wet hair with flashes of her light pink nail polish showing through the silky strands. Dennis felt like time slowed down as he stood quietly.

Her face lit up when she smiled. For a second, he was speechless, blinded by her sheer self-confidence. She stepped forward, her sleek legs moving gracefully, confidently toward him. She glided across the sand closer to Dennis, stepping inches from him.

Are you okay? Her lips parted, exposing bright straight teeth.

Yes, why are you asking?

You had a far-off look about you as though you were in some other place. I thought you were hurt, she questioned.

She was so close, he could smell her fresh breath against his cheek. Look, can we talk later. I need to leave for work now. Can we talk tonight, this evening maybe? He wanted to see her again.

She stepped slightly away. I had a very bitter breakup several months ago. I’m cautious now. Not sure if I’m ready for this. So, let me think about it. She didn’t know why she was explaining this to him.

She had been avoiding men in general, not looking for a hookup for the last several months. Her job took up most of the week; only occasionally she got up early enough to surf before work. She allowed herself only a couple of close girlfriends, getting together for drinks and dinner. She was protecting herself from more heartaches because of the breakup she had with Kyle. Her relationship was solid, she thought, becoming serious to the point of a possible marriage. She was angry at herself for even thinking of his name.

Chapter 3

Her thoughts went back to the night she met up with Kyle. When he called, he didn’t even ask how her day had gone. He was speaking seriously with her. Will you meet me at the Marine Room in La Jolla tomorrow at seven? When she said yes, he didn’t say another word. She could still hear in her mind the sudden sound of silence. No, I love you. See you there, nothing. She was standing next to her car when that call came. It was on a Friday; she was just leaving work for the weekend. She had thought they had just been disconnected. She immediately called him back; he didn’t pick up.

She was early getting to the restaurant, so she sat in the lounge area next to the massive window having a perfect view of the ocean. She was thinking it was a perfect place for a romantic evening. Those thoughts vanished in an instant when Kyle arrived. The waiter asked if they wanted to order drinks. Before Hannah could answer, Kyle spoke up. Not right now. His voice was abrupt and serious. He turned, facing Hannah. I didn’t want to tell you this over the phone. I’m leaving.

Where are you going? She thought he was leaving for a trip.

The feelings I had for you unfortunately hasn’t lasted. Our relationship is over, Hannah. I have met someone else. We got to a point in our relationship at the crossroads. The spark is gone…

At that point, she understood what he was saying. Standing up without a word, no crying, no argument, no taking the time to evaluate their past relationship.

She left the restaurant. Rushing through the traffic, she called Claire. When Claire answered her cell, Hannah could hear loud music in the background. Claire, I know you’re on a date. Where are you? I want to meet you there. Her voice was beginning to come out in bursts, the beginning of sobs. A tear broke free running down her cheek not from what Kyle said, not the breakup, but the strength she found in herself.

Chapter 4

Dennis broke her thoughts. Hello. You okay? Are you going to give me your name? Dennis asked.

Sorry, I was just thinking back about… She stopped herself. Hannah, Hannah Blackwood.

He was getting his confidence back. Look, let me make it up to you. I’m on my way to work now. Can I buy you dinner?

She laughed. You’re saying a date.

No, not a date, he spluttered, not knowing what to say.

You are asking me for a date? she continued, amused with his approach.

Yes, I guess. I guess I am. Dinner would be great. He held his breath.

I just told you I am not sure if I’m ready for a new friendship right now. I’ll think about it. She was straight with him. She knew it must be confusing as well as frustrating for him to grasp. His eagerness was a little too much for her to handle right now.

I have to go. She took one last look at Dennis before she turned to leave the beach. He slicked his wet dark brown hair back so it would be out of his eyes.

She guessed his age about twenty-six, her same age.

Removing his wet suit produced a well-defined body; obviously, he took care of himself.

I think that was a dumb stunt you pulled. We both could’ve been injured pretty bad. I didn’t appreciate it, she articulated as she was leaving.

I know, I apologized. Can I call you sometime? I must be at work by nine. He didn’t want her to leave until he got her telephone number. During the summertime, I usually come here to surf early in the morning as the sun’s rays are just popping up. It’s such a revitalizing time of the day, it gives me more power for the day ahead. It’s refreshing. He was pushing for one last chance for her number.

Give me your phone number. I will think about it. She didn’t want to commit.

After he gave up his cell phone number, he wasn’t sure if this was just a routine for a dismissal of him. I look forward for some time we can talk.

She turned without a word, heading for the parking lot. She wasn’t sure if she had just made a mistake. If she didn’t care to continue any conversations, she left herself an option.

I hope you call, Hannah, Hannah Blackwood, he repeated as she walked away. He hurried to his car, loaded his surfboard onto its rack on top of the car as he watched Hannah’s car disappear into the morning traffic.

Chapter 5

Dennis was sitting at his work counter going over some papers, documentation that he just took from two of the elephants.

You’ve been awfully quiet lately. What’s up, Dennis, is there something bothering you. Jose waited.

I have to admit, I met a girl on the beach a few mornings ago. I did a dumb thing that could’ve injured both of us. I cut her off while surfing. I bumped her off her board.

Sounds like you’re pretty serious about this girl. You’ve only been on a couple of dates after your breakup with what’s her name? Dina Paterson, was she from Canada. That one was a real winner. She was in the arms of another guy within a week after you finally came to your senses. How long has it been, Dennis, six months from Ms. Canadian? You were smart to leave her. After she walked, she never looked back, Dennis, it’s time you met someone new. Enjoy yourself. All you’ve been doing lately is surfing, working until this new girl appear on the scene. I’ll get off my soapbox. I’m glad you may have found someone.

Hart didn’t feel like talking about it. Later, Jose.

Let it out, Dennis, you will feel much better. We’ve been friends before college days. You know I’ll never judge you, my friend.

I’ve never seen this girl before that morning. There was something about her, Jose. She was a great surfer, well coordinated, tall, stood about five foot nine, very slender. Her movements were graceful. There was just something about her I can’t explain. I gave her my phone number. She said she would think about calling me. If she wanted to meet me again, I think she would have called by now.

On the way home from work, Dennis stopped at the In and Out drive-through, getting a hamburger, chocolate shake, french fries. As he entered his apartment, it suddenly felt empty. After watching television for a short time, he picked up his logbook, began reviewing some notes from the previous day’s workload. His psyche began to get off track; he was not ready to focus on work.

Sleep overtook his mind, thinking about Hannah. Waking up early in the morning, he headed to the beach. It didn’t feel right; he just sat on his board beyond the breakers, watching the shore for Hannah to appear. She never left his thoughts. A couple of hours passed; he turned his attention to work.

Most of the morning was spent in the field taking blood samples, checking the health of some of the animals. This morning was with the goats, the miniature goats. The Camerons were curious little animals; he was amused by their nibbling on as his clothes. Exiting the enclosure, he was locking the gate when his cell phone rang.

Dennis, it’s Hannah! He was surprised, elated at the same time.

Hannah, I didn’t know if I would hear from you again.

Both were silent for several seconds, waiting for the other one to speak first.

Finally, Dennis spoke. Hannah, how have you been. He grimaced in silence at his comment. I sound so ridiculous, sorry. I have been hoping you would call. You’ve been dominating my thoughts.

Before he could comment further to this confusing conversation, Hannah said, Dennis, listen, I have been thinking about you also. My roommate and I are having a few friends gathering at our apartment Friday night. He quickly wrote down the address. Dennis, it’s just a small gathering if you would like to bring someone. She was hunting for the name, hoping it would not be a female.

I’ll bring a friend of mine. He left it there knowing she was wanting to know if he would be bringing a girl. What time?

About seven thirty or eight will be fine.

When the line was disconnected, Hannah turned to her friend Claire. Claire was smiling at Hannah.

Well, are you going to tell me about what’s going on here? The last several days I noticed a change in you. You’ve been moping around here for the last eight months after your breakup. Now suddenly your mood has been upbeat. That spark of excitement has returned once again.

I met this guy surfing the other morning. I went surfing in Pacific Beach rather than my usual place. We had a little confrontation. It was a silly little thing. It could’ve been tragic, a bad accident, but it turned out okay. It was early morning just after sunup before work. I met this guy. He was really sweet trying to apologize.

Claire let out a little crackle of a laugh. Good, it’s about time. It sounds like a delicious story. Tell me more.

You should talk. How long has it been since your departure from the jerk you were dating? Six months? Hannah laughed.

Yes, Claire spoke. Hannah, give me each and every detail. This is sounding fascinating.

He’s about six four, same age as me, I guess, dark brown hair, chiseled face, pleasant, boyish smile. His eyes lit up when he talked with me. Those penetrating eyes never looked away when he was talking with me. His eyes were on me talking. Not looking at my breasts, looking, listening to what I was saying.

Sounds like you’re smitten, Hannah. They both laughed. I’m so glad for you, Hannah. You need to get your life back. That good-for-nothing guy you dated for so long, calling him your boyfriend, I never liked him from the day you met. I don’t even want to say his name. I never said this to you, but I was so glad you broke up with him.

Claire, say what’s on your mind. They both laughed. Well, you’ll meet Dennis on Friday.

Chapter 6

Dennis pulled into a parking space, took a deep breath, looked up at the apartment building. He hesitated to get out of the car.

Dennis, we have to go upstairs to the apartment for the party. It will not come down to us. They both laughed. I look forward to meeting your Hannah. Everything you have said about her, I think it’s one of your dreams.

Standing before the door of the apartment, they could hear music, loud laughter coming from inside the apartment.

Go ahead, Dennis, knock.

After knocking a couple of times, the door swung open. Standing, holding the door open was Claire. You must be Dennis. She looked straight at Dennis, knowing from the description Hannah had given her.

I’m Jose, I work with Dennis. I hope you don’t mind if I tag along. Jose held out his hand for a handshake, but instead, Claire gave him a hug.

I like this party already. Jose laughed.

Come on in. Claire took Jose’s arm.

Entering the room, they could see people sitting around, talking, laughing, listening to music, catching up on the week’s activities just passed. Several sitting on the crowded couch waved in their direction. Hannah was in a conversation with a girl standing with a guy at the door entering the kitchen. She looked up. Seeing Dennis, she walked over, also giving him a hug, surprising him as her soft hair brushed against his nose. Her fragrance lingered.

It’s good to see you, Dennis. She introduced him to everybody, some friends from work, others were just friends living in the same apartment building.

The smoke in the air was pungent; obviously several of the guests were smoking grass. The apartment was small. Claire and Hannah must live an incredibly quiet lifestyle, Dennis thought, viewing the decor of the apartment. The air was being sucked out of the room from the grass mixed with body heat on this hot summer night. The music was a little loud, but it didn’t appear to bother the neighbors.

Dennis took notice that his friend Jose had disappeared into the kitchen for some privacy with Claire. They were attracted to each other instantly.

Dennis was cornered by a couple of the guests grilling him about meeting Hannah. They wanted to know all the details. Finally, Jose rescued Dennis, taking him aside for a private conversation. Dennis, I’m going for a walk with Claire. We want some fresh air. She’ll give me a ride home later. I hope you don’t mind. Jose smiled.

Sounds like you two have got off to a good start. That’s okay. I’m going to stick around here for a while.

Have you been able to talk with Hannah? I notice you’ve been spending most of the time getting the second degree from her friends. They’re sure protective of her. Jose was curious about their ongoing relationship. Do you want to ask Hannah for a walk as well?

No, it wouldn’t be polite for her to leave her guests. This is her party, remember. I will catch up with you later or tomorrow. He chuckled.

Chapter 7

Dennis didn’t have much private time with Hannah during this get-together. Time to be with Hannah was slipping away; it was getting late, so he decided to leave. Some of Hannah’s friends had already left. The two couples remaining were her neighbors living just down the hallway a few feet away. Maybe another time they could get together for a talk. Dennis answered questions about his work. They questioned him about where he went to school, what was his college alma mater, why did he get into becoming a veterinarian, all the standard questions.

Hannah sat across from Dennis, listening to the questions. She was interested in how he was answering the questions with the calm patience he’s displayed. He finally stood up, announcing he was leaving; it was getting late.

No, not yet. I want you to stay awhile. Hannah’s eyes expressed delight.

The last of her friends said their goodbyes, leaving. Hannah closed the door, turning to Dennis. Now we can talk. I want to know more about you and your work at the zoo.

Not much to tell, really. I never knew my parents, moving from foster home to the next. So, I grew up loving animals, being curious about every aspect of them. Learning everything I could from birth through their adulthood. There was so much to learn, I just continued the learning process through college then veterinarian school. My job is extremely exciting, learning something every day. I do research at the zoo. I like working with the animals. How about you, fill me in on your history.

I was raised by my Aunt Grace. My parents died when I was about six. It was all a mystery to me. No one ever told me the true story. I tried to find out what happened to them when I was in college but kept running into a dead end. My Uncle Kenna resented me living with them. He just never accepted me for some reason, still don’t know why. She told him about her life now as an adult. She also opened about her college plus her breakup several months before that was not a genuinely nice parting of ways.

He also talked about his breakup. Dennis observed the clock on the wall. Time had slipped by; it was 1:00 a.m.

Dennis was hooked. He wanted to see her again; she was pleased. She instantly took a liking to Dennis.

Looks like Jose got along with Claire. They disappeared together almost instantly, Dennis commented. He’s a great guy, hard worker, always on time. We’ve worked in the same department from college days. We were both hired the same day. When we found out we were hired and given our assignments, we went out to celebrate.

Local bar? Hanna remarked with a slight smile.

Dennis laughed. No, Starbucks actually.

Dennis was wondering about Claire and Jose. I wonder if Jose and Claire got lost. The jingling of Dennis’s cell phone startled him. It was Jose. Dennis, I have a ride, will see you Monday morning at work. I had a great time.

Dennis responded, Where are you?

Jose laughed. I’m okay, I’m with Claire. See you on Monday morning. The phone went dead.

Dennis turned to Hannah. I’m sorry about this, I know it’s late. I’m not sure where Jose took Claire, but I’m sure they are having a good time. They both laughed.

Hannah’s cell rang. Hello, okay, sure. No, Dennis is leaving. We’ll see each other again. Yes. She looked up at Dennis. Then her face slowly started to flush, turning a little red. Yes. Okay. Sorry about the call, Dennis. It was Claire letting me know she was okay.

Thank you for the evening. I’m glad we got to know each other a little better. I would like to see you again.

Absolutely. Surfing in the morning if you’ll be there.

I love the mornings as the sun’s coming up, something about the calmness. The ocean sets the tone for the day? It was more of a question than a statement.

Jose hit it off with Claire. After several weeks of dating, they moved in together, becoming a couple.

Chapter 8

Dennis and Hannah were inseparable; the weeks went into several months of their friendship. Friendship turned into love, sealed with early mornings as the sun would brighten the day before work. It was a magical time for new love.

Dennis was happy; his job was going well. His boss called him into her office. The conversation started out about the day, different animals he was working with. She asked him how he liked his duties at the zoo. He wasn’t sure where the conversation was headed.

Dennis, we have received notice of a fellowship for you. It’s in Africa for a couple weeks that could swell into a couple months.

He was surprised when she presented the particulars about the offer. It’s a great opportunity for you, Dennis, also a little prestige for the zoo as well. Do you have any comments?

This is something I have been working towards, but this has totally taken me by surprise.

Yes, I know. I will need to know your commitment by next week. She handed him a large folder. Here’s all the information we have at the present. There may be some follow-up later. The contact numbers are in the folder. If there are things I can help you with, let me know. You deserve this, Dennis. I hope you consider the offer.

He left her office thinking how he was going to break the news to Hannah, at the same time a marriage proposal. He was going to ask her to marry him straight out. He thought that would be the best approach. Neither one of them had any family. Hannah’s parents died when she was young. Dennis was brought up with older foster parents that died when he was sixteen. He had just entered college on an academic scholarship that paid him enough to finish school. When he entered veterinarian studies, he worked part-time. So, this commitment was going to be a big step for the both of them if Hannah said yes to his proposal.

The morning started out as usual at sunrise before heading off to work. After several rides, they were sitting, just enjoying the water.

Hannah, there’s something I need to ask you. I have worked extremely hard on a few projects that were noticed by a center in Africa. They have offered me a fellowship in Africa. It’s something I have been aiming for in my work. To see and work with wild animals is something I have always dreamed I would do someday. This is a great opportunity for me. The fellowship may turn into three months.

Dennis, I’m excited and happy for you. Hannah was quiet, not showing any emotions.

Say something, Hannah. Talk to me. What do you think? The comment or the reaction was not what Dennis was hoping for.

I think you will enjoy the work very much from what you have told me.

No, you don’t understand. I don’t want to be away from you. I want you to come with me.

Hannah was digesting his words. I will miss you. I know you will do very well there. I have read some of the reports you’ve published.

Hannah, you’re not understanding what I’m asking. I guess I’m not making myself clear. I want you to marry me, Hannah. I love you. I will not take the fellowship without you coming with me. There’s probably work you can do there as well. We can use that as our honeymoon.

Hannah was quiet in an attentive way. She kind of expected it; still, it was a surprise. She caught the next wave in without a word.

Chapter 9

He was still sitting beyond the breakers; he didn’t know what to think of her reaction. Looking down toward the line of surfers, he was aware the other surfer had heard their conversation. Hey, Dennis, go get her, he heard someone yell to him.

Hannah was standing at the water’s edge, waiting for Dennis; she dropped her board onto the sand, watching Dennis.

He thought he was a little forceful, maybe overstepping thinking that she felt the same way about him. He suddenly felt completely naked when she didn’t respond quickly enough.

He caught the next wave, slid down the face, riding the wave to its conclusion. He picked up his board, walked up to Hannah, setting his board down. He started to apologize; she immediately put her arms around him, kissing him, then leaned back to look into his eyes for his response.

I love you, Hannah, I’m serious about having you as my wife, my partner, the love of my life. I want us to have a life together.

I love you, Dennis. Yes, yes, yes, I will marry you.

He held her close, not wanting the moment to pass. Hannah, promise me we’ll never forget this moment in time. This is the beginning of our lives.

It was such a short notice. Claire and Jose helped arrange for the wedding. It was a quiet wedding for a few friends; the ceremony was in La Jolla on top of a cliff overlooking the ocean. It was a beautiful day, clear sky, seventy-five degrees. The Sunday could not have been more perfect. Dennis thought, what a quintessential day. After the cake was cut, Dennis and Hannah were dancing at the reception. Hannah was happy beyond words.

The next day, the newlyweds left for Africa. They started in Nairobi, traveling to Arusha and to Tanzania. They were in Kenya and four other destinations in Africa. For three months, they worked long hours but had time to enjoy the wonders of Africa. It couldn’t have been a better, a more perfect honeymoon. It was a time for them learning more about each other, spending spare time talking long hours into the early mornings.

After three months in Africa, they returned to Pacific Beach; Hannah moved into Dennis’s small apartment. It was perfect. They continued working, visiting with friends, traveling around San Diego, having dinners at Hotel Del overlooking the ocean.

It was early Saturday morning; they both were sleeping late, lazy in bed, enjoying the comfort of each other. Hannah turned, facing Dennis. The last two years have been the most satisfying time in my life, Dennis. I love you so much.

He was surprised at the comment. I love you very much. You are my heart. I’ve loved you from the first time I laid eyes on you, Hannah. That early morning, we were surfing.

There is something I need to share with you. She paused for his response.

What is it? The expression of seriousness sent a shock wave through Dennis. Are you okay. Do you feel okay?

We’ve talked about this before. She took a deep breath of air. I’m pregnant. We’re going to welcome a new person into our family. Dennis was suddenly out of bed, jumping around, laughing with a wide grin. That’s wonderful, he shouted.

Dennis took a few steps toward her; without a word, he put his arms gently around her. She pulled him into bed with her. The bodies became one as they kissed. Her soft warm lips responded to the gentle urging of his tongue. Time remained frozen.

Chapter 10

Dennis was standing next to the bed. Barbara was wrapped in a pink blanket; her eyes were closed. Hannah reached out for Dennis’s hand. Do you want to hold your daughter?

He was hesitant.

Dennis, you won’t break her, she isn’t a porcelain doll.

Holding her brought a few tears down his cheeks. She’s beautiful, Hannah.

Dennis was enjoying the time holding his daughter when the doctor entered the room to check up on Hannah. You can go home tomorrow, Hannah. I’m sure you want to get out of here.

Hannah was happy to be home. Dennis noticed the change Hannah was going through; he didn’t understand. She was experiencing mood swings, weepiness in the days following Barbara’s birth. She didn’t expect that to change upon giving birth to her daughter.

Within a few days, she felt withdrawn, scared, nervous for no known reason. She stayed inside, overwhelmed by emotion, exhausted by caring for Barbara and Dennis. It was one of the lowest points in her life, she thought. She kept her silence about her emotional highs, the lows; she was feeling happy one minute, tearful or overwhelmed the next.

Dennis was having a hard time understanding the change in Hannah. He tried talking with her, but she would withdraw. He became concerned about her feeling angry, sad, irritable, or discouraged.

Hannah, we need to talk about what you are going through after having Barbara. Do you understand the emotional swings you are having? Claire is your best friend, but you have locked her out. I think we need professional help to sort this out. We are not communicating very well. I want to help, but I’m not sure how to do that.

Okay, I agree. I don’t understand my emotions either. You have been so patient with me.

Chapter 11

Hannah and Dennis were sitting quietly together, waiting to meet with a counselor. Dennis was gripping Hannah’s hand firmly in his. Claire had taken some time off from work to help with Barbara while Dennis and Hannah met with the counselor. Claire was in the outer office, enjoying the time with Barbara.

My name is Nora Wright. Glad to meet you both. Yes, I met Claire with your beautiful baby in the waiting room. They’re doing fine. What a beauty, your daughter.

Thank you. She is the love of our lives.

Hannah explained her mood swings. After listening to Hannah explain her feelings after giving birth to Barbara, the counselor wanted to know what Dennis thought of the experience.

He gave his thoughts about being left out, not understanding what changed in Hannah so much.

"This can be normal for new mothers. Your body is undergoing many hormonal changes during and after your pregnancy. When you are pregnant, your body produced the female hormones estrogen and progesterone in much greater amounts. But in the first twenty-four hours after your childbirth, these hormone levels dropped rapidly back down to their nonpregnant levels. The truth is every woman is different. Typically, your symptoms related to hormone imbalance should only last for a few weeks, about six to eight weeks. Symptoms related to your hormones while breastfeeding will remain in the body for as long as you breastfeed.

So here is my recommendation that may help to manage the increased stress that accompanies new parenthood: getting enough sleep, finding time to exercise, pull in supportive friends, eating regular nourishing meals. Ask others to watch Barbara so you can have much-needed breaks.

Hannah followed the recommendation from the counselor. When Dennis was not working, he would take Barbara for long walks. Stopping from time to time, he would lift her out of the stroller so he could carry her. He would talk to her as an adult. She would be content listening to the sound of his voice. When they would return from their walks, Dennis noticed how happy Hannah was to see them.

How was your walk?

We had a long talk. Dennis laughed.

Barbara was the center of their world. Hannah was getting over the stressful moments; with the jogging, the exercising, she was feeling like her old self.

Dennis, I was thinking about going back to work.

How will you do that? What about Barbara.

I talked with my Aunt Grace. She is willing to have Barb for a couple of hours during the week. I would pay her. My hours at work would only be away for a short time. Barbara is three years old now. She wouldn’t be a problem for them.

I’m not sure that would be such a good idea, but do what you want. I’ll support any decision you make as long as it doesn’t negate away from our family.

Chapter 12

The summer months became a time of surfing in the morning before work. On the weekends Dennis would spend time teaching Barbara to surf. Dennis was excited that Barbara was learning to surf at such a young age. The other surfers treated Barbara like a little sister over time. She had become one of them. The line of early morning surfers became very protect of her.

It was one of those early magical mornings that Dennis loved. The sun was just starting to paint the sky. Morning haze was disappearing as the temperature began to rise. Dennis refreshed, relaxed before he would head off to the zoo. He was sitting on his board beyond the breaking waves. He was waving toward Hannah and Barbara to join him. They just waved back. He was puzzled by their actions as he caught the next wave heading into shore.

At the conclusion of his ride, he tucked his board under his arm, approaching Hannah with a perplexed expression, finally shaking the water from his hair.

Both were smiling with excitement that confused Dennis.

You two look like you have been into some mischief. Before they could answer, Claire and Jose approached, smiling also.

What’s going on here? Dennis questioned. Jose, Claire, hi. What’s going on? He repeated.

Well, I wanted to be around some friends and family, Hannah answered with a perplexing smile. She walked up to Dennis, putting her arms around his neck, kissing him passionately. Suddenly Dennis was aware of other surfers beginning to drift close to watch the activity that was happening.

Okay, okay. Hannah. What’s going on? Is there something I missed? he questioned.

Well, the last time I made this announcement, we were in private. This time it was Barbara’s idea to tell you here, the place you like being with your family. The surfers were curious, shouting encouragement for Hannah to continue. They also wanted to be let in on the announcement.

Hannah held Dennis close to her body. Her lips were touching Dennis’s ear as she whispered, "Barbara is going to have company. I hope it