A Man for Mom

By Linda L. Lattimer

Mark nursed the cold milk for a moment thinking of all the abused women he'd read about. What about the verbal abuse? Couldn't that be just as bad if not worse? Lizbeth had suffered mental anguish and abuse by this one man, not to mention what the others living there had done to her and her self-esteem. He shut his eyes for a silent prayer then started the pages once more.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Wings ePress, Inc.
• Release date: Aug 6, 2023
• ISBN: 9781597051927

Book preview

Dedication

To all the women in the world that are abused daily. May one day all the cruelty and violence completely stop.

For Marvetta, Suzanne and Lisa Renee’ who have grown into beautiful young women and exceptional mothers. I will always love you...

To everyone at Wings ePress that made this all possible.

And always thanks to God above for all His blessings.

One

Lizbeth eyed the woman staring back at her from the mirror. So many thoughts were going through her head this morning. One was men. She couldn’t say when she actually began feeling disdain for them. Whether it was when she was growing up or after she got married she couldn’t really say, but the idea had grown and festered so much that she was wondering why today, of all days she was tying the knot again.

A forty-seven year old woman shouldn’t be considering remarriage. And of all things, a June wedding. Hadn’t the first been in June? I need to have my head examined.

I’ll tell you why, Diane said, because now you are marrying for sex, not love. She belted out one of her hearty laughs. I wish you would hush and think happy thoughts this morning. I’ve heard the same thing fall off your lips for over a week now. The decision has been made. Count yourself as one of the lucky ones and stop delving so much into the past. You are attending a wedding, not a funeral. Now, hold still while I redo your hair. You want to look good for Mark. As for it being in June again, think of it this way, this one is going to work. Trust me. I know. After all, I am your sister. And sisters know.

Diane was five years younger than Lizbeth. At times it was hard to believe they were sisters. Lizbeth was the quiet, shy type whereas Diane was the loud, rambunctious kind. While Lizbeth preferred to sit at home and read or enjoy a cozy fire, Diane attended the arrivals of the Chippendales whenever they came to town.

Ever since Lizbeth was a young child, she had heard many times a woman’s place is in the home. It was something that was instilled in her head while growing up. She was to marry, raise a family, be there twenty-four-seven for her spouse, and above all, put her needs last. Never first, always last. Looking back on the terms by which she’d lived her life, if she had a gun she probably would have shot herself.

In Lizbeth’s mind, nothing was wrong in caring for them, but when one found themselves doing all the time for the spouse and never reaping anything good in turn—nothing but heartbreak and agony—then perhaps it was best not to jump into the fire again.

It was time Lizbeth woke up and started thinking about herself for a change.

Since John is gone, sometimes I think it was the best thing that happened in my life. I know that’s wrong, but no one knows what I went through with him. He left many scars. I’m not happy he’s dead. But I’m relieved I no longer have to endure the heartache. Then I feel guilty for getting my wake-up call, so to speak.

I think you just found real love later in life, Lizbeth. It has nothing to do with guilt. It wasn’t written in stone that you had to do the same monotonous things for John. That was the life you chose. I sure didn’t follow that path with Larry and as you can see, no fire and brimstone has rained on me yet.

Have I ever told you that you have a way of making me smile?

Yes. I’m glad for that. Believe me, you needed some laughter in your life.

You have been a lifesaver helping erase some of my troubled past. Always the jokester, you are. When you walk in a room, you light the place with laughter. I’ll never understand how you linked up with Larry. He is quite the opposite. You must be doing something right to still be married almost twenty-two years—and still happily in love. Lizbeth paused and inhaled a breath.

Now what?

Sometimes I wish I could have found someone as loving as Larry the first time. Someone romantic and charming.

Diane burst out laughing. Yeah, right.

Lizbeth slightly tapped Diane on the shoulder. You know I’m speaking the truth.

Well, if you don’t hold still, this hair is not going to manage right. She held a strand of the cinnamon-colored hair in her fingers and made a curl with the brush. I have always envied your hair; long, thick and full.

You should let yours grow.

Nah, it’s so fine that I just keep it short. As for you, you always have had the best hair. And the manageability, face it Lizbeth, people pay lots of money to try to get hair like yours. I remember, John always wanted you to keep it long.

Lizbeth released a sigh. Yes he did. He always said I had lovely hair. Another sigh escaped her lips.

Two sighs in one breath. Now what?

What if I’m not doing the right thing? What if I am making a mistake? I don’t want another experience like I had with John. And by the way, Diane, it is more than sex.

Not in my book, sister. I’m sorry, I know you don’t enjoy discussing the subject. So, I found one nice thing he liked about you. Mark is not like John. He will never be like him. Look, you were married to a man who didn’t act in that department, or should I say perform. Well not to you anyway. How you stayed with him all those years is beyond me. Personally, I would have divorced him way before he died. You have missed too many opportunities to have your candle lit, dear sister.

I didn’t know the man was going to die. It just happened. And I have experienced a few orgasmic times.

Poor man—ha! Diane raised an eyebrow to Lizbeth then shook her head. And as for climactic charges, until you do have the big O, and I am sure you will with Mark, you won’t know what a real orgasmic charge is.

Diane!

It’s the truth. And as for the poor man whose wick never set you on fire, after what he put you through, he deserved to see his last days. That secret of his just about drove you mad.

Shhh. Lizbeth’s eyes searched the room. Would you hush on the secret? I never told the kids. I didn’t wish them to know anything unfavorable about their father.

Diane stood at attention giving a salute. Yes, sir, Captain, your secret is safe with me. Still you shouldn’t have stayed with him just to spare the kids from going through a divorce. Think of all the dynamite charges that you could have been having with the right man, she said, with a devilish smile.

Children need two parents growing up. And is sex all you think about?

She took hold of Lizbeth’s hand. That’s fine and dandy in a fantasy world. We live in reality, dear. And no woman should have to endure the strain that man put on you and your marriage. You haven’t even lived all these years. With Mark, you’re headed for something most spectacular. Look at it this way, you’re getting a civilian this time not a military man. You won’t have to do a lot of traveling. She paused and grinned wickedly. And no, sex is not all I think about. I think of other ways to have it. She laughed out loud.

You are impossible. Besides, I told you I never want the children to know about any of this. That secret would destroy them. It was extremely painful. All those images still hammer into my head at times. You’re right about not being with the military now. It’s taken some time getting used to keeping my feet settled in one place.

My lips are sealed. They will never hear it from me.

And what might that secret be? Amber asked, bouncing into the room all aglow.

Amber, the youngest, the baby girl. Long, brown-sugar hair to her shoulder flipped under in sweet little curls. She stood batting her shiny green eyes at Lizbeth. Such a petite shape. Once she had talked about being a showgirl dancer. Boy, was Lizbeth glad when she changed her mind about that.

Amber, dear, you are very chipper this morning. You could almost be the bride.

Mom, it is a glorious morning. After ten years you are finally getting married. It’s about time. Now, tell me, what secret?

Lizbeth ignored the question. Amber, I’ve been married before. Need I remind you?

Mother, this is different. Daddy is gone, and he’s not coming back. You need to be happy with someone again.

Diane exchanged a guarded look with Lizbeth.

I think I would have been content with just staying single the rest of my life.

So you want to call the marriage off? Disappoint that hot looking stud out there?

No, Amber. I mean for ten years I’ve been single with no man to answer to, nothing. Now things are going to change. Almost like when I gave birth to you girls. She shook her head thinking of Amber’s last comment. Wait, did you just call Mark a stud?

I think she said ‘hot looking stud’, Diane corrected with a grin.

You two are incorrigible, looking at him in that way.

Men look and think, not to mention say just about anything that falls off their lips. Why can’t women? Diane offered.

Amber eyed her mom from eye to toe giving her the approval stamp. Now mother, getting back to your statement, you don’t have to tell me how children change a marriage. And to believe you had two. One would have been a handful. I do know that much. Guess this means you and Mark have ruled out more children. Amber gave a little grin.

Lizbeth eyed Diane.

Hey, don’t look at me. I stopped at two.

We never discussed children, Lizbeth mentioned solemnly. I mean I’m not young anymore. Besides you know I can’t...

I know Mom, didn’t mean to strike a nerve, but you could always adopt.

Face it, Lizbeth, you aren’t over the hill either, Diane answered. Age has nothing to do with having children when there are tons out there desiring homes.

True, but children—oh no—what if Mark decides...

Then, he will sit down and discuss it with you. I believe he only wants to be with you. Besides every time he speaks, he always calls your children, his children, Diane said, standing back to peer at her sister.

I agree with Aunt Diane. I think if Mark really wanted children, he would have already brought up the issue, Amber went on to say.

But in a way, he has, and Diane is right... he says my children and grandchildren are his. Why can’t I bring the words out today and mention this to them? Just tell them I did mention to Mark I couldn’t have any.

You don’t have to worry. Mark is so in love with you, I know he only wants to spend the rest of his life making you, and you alone, happy. Having some fun filled nights rolling on those sheets no doubt.

Amber!

Mom, I’m married now. What—you didn’t want me talking about that before marriage, and now you’ve ruled it out, too?

No, I just meant... Well I never expected my daughter saying such things to me.

Why not, no matter what age, we are both women.

True.

Now, if memory serves me, you were talking about some secret when I entered.

Secret? Who said anything about a secret? Tommy bounced in as excited as Amber. He and Amber had been married five years and things were peachier between them with each passing day.

It really isn’t much of a secret, Diane said winking at Lizbeth. We were just saying how Mark enjoys working out like you, Tommy. You both must use the same size weights.

Tommy flexed his muscles. Even underneath his blue shirt the well-defined muscles could be detected.

Amber salivated and gave him a yummy look. Oh, yes, Mom, those muscles come in handy when you want to be picked up and carried, and held and embraced—

Or for some extracurricular activities, if you get my drift, Diane broke in with raised eyebrows as another devious smile curved her lips.

I tell you what. I’ve said it before many times and I will say it again. I know for a fact that’s all you think about, sex, sex, and more sex, Lizbeth said, as she examined the way her hair cascaded off her shoulders. She was surprised she’d never displayed a sign of gray with all that she had been dealt. Diane was right; she did have great manageability.

Well, Mom, Tommy said, something tells me that, after you get your hooks into Mark, you won’t be thinking of anything but that either.

I am a mature woman, that will not be on my agenda.

But you are marrying someone seven years younger this time. Last time it was seven years older. Tommy elbowed Amber as he related that fact to Lizbeth. A widened smile escaped his lips. Think of all the fun you’re going to have with a younger man.

Lizbeth eyed Tommy before it actually hit her. She’d been aware of the age difference, of course, but making it legal with papers hit home hard. She had to put a stop to this.

Tommy’s right. What the devil am I doing? I’m forty-seven years old; I can’t be doing this. Look, tell Mark to come here, I’ve got to stop the wedding.

Oh, no, Amber remarked, pointing her finger. You will not do that to that wonderful man. He adores you. For six months he’s done nothing but propose to you, send you flowers and treat you like you’re the only woman on this earth. I thought, after Daddy died, that I’d never wish to see you with another man, but Mark Stuart has changed my mind.

I second, Tommy said. I’m glad I introduced you to my foreman. He’s a great boss and the way you two eyed each other the day I introduced you, it was like babies drooling over each other. Believe me, Mom, I think you need this marriage.

I third! Diane said giving her sister another once over. In fact it has been so long since you have enjoyed the bounties of sex, we three got you this for a honeymoon gift.

Diane handed Lizbeth a bag. When she looked inside, she couldn’t believe her eyes.

What the devil are these? she asked.

Edible underwear. You have strawberry and cherry flavor. And Tommy even gave Mark his own little bag, Amber said with a purr, then broke into a gentle laugh.

Lizbeth’s face turned the color of ripe tomatoes. Tommy’s huge laugh was followed by one by Diane and then Amber.

Michelle and Steve walked into the room.

Michelle was the older daughter, and Steve was her husband. They were different as night and day. It baffled Lizbeth how they managed to keep going in their marriage, but they had. Had she been the only one living in a terrible lie when John was alive? The only woman on the face of the earth who didn’t know how to enjoy life.

Oh, you gave Mom the underwear. Believe me, Mom, you’re going to thank us afterwards, Michelle boasted with a smile. And why aren’t you dressed? Your beau is waiting for you.

All that’s left is taking off my robe and slipping on my wedding gown.

Methinks she’s getting cold feet, Diane said.

What? Steve asked. The man spent his whole paycheck on a room full of red, white, and yellow roses, and then he got down on his knees and asked you to marry him. And that little engagement ring he slipped on your finger cost a nice little bundle of green, too.

He didn’t have to spend all that money on me. And you know how I feel about spending money on flowers.

Yes, Amber said, but afterward he gave them all for the exception of one dozen to a nice retirement home. That was thoughtful.

Lizbeth cast them all a dubious look. They each eyed her back, as if to ask What in this world is wrong now?

I just don’t know about being with a man again, after ten long years.

Fifteen, Diane expressed.

Lizbeth shot her a cold glare.

Diane leaned toward Lizbeth’s ear. We know the firing torpedoes ceased five years before he died. Or maybe I should say John stopped firing torpedoes, your launching field just closed up.

Lizbeth swatted Diane on the shoulder. Would you hush?

Amber shook her head. I’m sure what Aunt Diane is whispering is the truth, Mother. We all know she comes to the point on everything. You could take some tips from her on some things.

Aunt Diane shares her stories with us when she goes partying with the girls. I don’t think it hurts to go out with other ‘girls’ at times, for some good clean fun. I wish I could see her when she goes to see the Chippendales, Steve said. I’d pay to get that on video. You should have gone with her, Mom.

Lizbeth shook her head. I don’t think so. My idea of a fun night doesn’t include trying to get a microscopic view of some guy stripping on stage.

You really should give it a try, Diane said. It’s a hoot trying to get a squeeze of their sexy butts. Diane raised her hands in the air. Of course I know that is a bit embarrassing for your taste but, believe me, it’s a dynamite charge.

You are one crazy sister.

And you need to stop saying you’re over the hill.

I agree with Aunt Diane, Amber said. You are still lovely, active, and desirable.

Well Mark certainly thinks so. He’s expressed that numerous times, Michelle added. You were very young when you first married, sort of immature, if we remember the story. Now you know all the good things, she remarked with arched eyebrows. And take a good look at Mark Stuart. You’ve got George Clooney right here with you every day after you say ‘I do’. Of course, I believe Mark has more biceps and more muscles than Mr. Clooney. And don’t forget that rich thick moustache that everyday will be covering your lips in kisses.

Hey, hey, Steve remarked, the only person you should be searching your eyes over is me, sweetheart. I don’t think you should be saying such things to your mother, either.

Someone should be giving her a list of things to remember with this guy.

Lizbeth thought for a moment. She still hadn’t gotten over the statement about the torpedoes. She hoped Diane had never mentioned that to Larry in their conversations. Not to mention Amber and the ‘rolling on the sheet’ comment. Had she missed that much in her loveless marriage? The more she considered their words, they were certainly beginning to ring true on all accounts. But she wasn’t sure about being alone with a man again. Rejection had not come easy for her, and with John there had been many rejections on her part when he chose... Okay, stop it, John is gone, don’t allow him to ruin this day for you.

Just look at your sister and the kids, they are so happy for you. And Mark does love you. He wanted you to wear this white gown. It’s his first marriage. He’s forty, so what? A dynamite looking guy. And dynamite guys, the way the stories go, end up setting the bedroom on fire. The thoughts ran over and over in her mind. She inhaled a breath.

You’re right; help me put on my gown. My prince is waiting.

Yeah, now we’re talking, Diane agreed. Tommy, you and Steve step outside for a moment.

Two

Lizbeth slid the dress over her head. Just a dainty, white, simple dress with little simulated pearls cascading over the bodice, and a full skirt. It reminded her of vintage dresses she’d seen in old wedding catalogs and magazines with antiques or memories of past designs. And the dress itself reminded her of ones that damsels wore when kidnapped by pirates on a ship.

Yes, a lovely dress, that Mark had chosen. Perhaps he was thinking of making her walk the pirate gangplank. The dress certainly revealed a lot. The puffy half sleeves and the top of the bodice slightly opened exposing her...

Wait a minute, I can’t wear this.

Now what? Diane retorted with open palms in the air.

Need you ask? You have breasts—I don’t. Look how low this is. I mean...

Would you hush, you’re wearing the push-up bra. Believe me it will work. I’m your sister. Now trust me. And you are endowed. Maybe not as much as me, but you have plenty enough. So stop worrying.

And when I take my clothes off he’ll see that I don’t even have a handful.

Yes, you do, Diane said, quickly measuring.

Lizbeth slapped her hand. Are you crazy—my sons-in-laws are right outside that door. I bet they’re listening to everything in here.

Well, do you want them to give it a try at the measuring?

Lizbeth shot her a dagger stare.

Okay, would you just relax? You act as if Mark has never seen you or touched any part of your body, Diane said, helping Lizbeth finish dressing.

Lizbeth instantly turned away, gazing in the mirror. Today she was viewing an entirely different woman than the one she’d been all those years with John. And soon she would be alone with a man that was very different from her late husband. What was wrong with her? Had she really given herself enough time to get used to this new situation? To jump into dating, and now remarry?

Mark had only seen the outside of her. She had never once disrobed in front of him. It may be a new year, a new time for women to express things, but still her old ways were with her. And when she said I do Mark would finally see the woman underneath. How could she have been so blind to all this? To be with a different man, to feel his touch.

Face it, Lizbeth, you are frightened.

Michelle walked over. Mother, has he seen you or touched you in the whole time you’ve dated?

Why are you so surprised?

Mother, you mean you’ve never allowed him to touch you? I mean, even I let Steve...

Lizbeth rested her hands on her lips. "Yes,