Where It Began

By Patricia Clifton

Sarah was once married to an abusive husband and was gripped by this painful past. Through fate, she meets Jim. Sarah's emotional growth into a renewed woman, supported by Jim as a patient man, saw their lives having a promising future. He saw her as a woman he could love and as a woman who would love him.

Jim grew to know Andie McGinnis through their job of reworking a city park in Savannah. After a wayward introduction, Jim becomes a fatherly figure to Andie. Jim and Sarah befriended Andie and come to notice her heavyhearted bewildered looks. Andie withholds the truth about the condescending remarks and fearful threats her husband makes until his actions become known.

After meeting Fred, Andie's husband, Jim and Sarah suspect she is married to an arrogant, mentally abusive man. With Sarah's past, she is familiar with his domineering ways.

After an enduring tragedy involving Fred and Andie's friend Melissa, Andie is questioned by Joe Brown, the lead detective on the case. He realized the danger Andie is in with what she knows. Andie's mental cloudiness clears as she sees Joe as an honest, concerned officer needing to protect her from her husband, whose arrogance has influenced his lack of conscience.

Through Jim and Sarah's observations, they come to Andie's aid with support. After Fred's tragedy comes to a deadly end, and the case is closed, Joe expresses his recognition of Andie's maternal instincts toward his daughter and her credible characteristics as a worthy companion. His thoughts are encouraged by his perceptive young daughter.

Where It Began is an emotionally compelling story showing the renewed hope of Sarah encouraged by Jim, and their mentoring of Andie, as she renews her shattered life, as Joe patiently waits for this incredible woman. Andie never forgot the turning point in her life and where her new life began. It was after Joe asked an off the cuff…life altering question as he closed an intense interrogation session…'Do you like chocolate ice cream?'

This story describes an all-American family living with issues of abuse, and how a medical team, friends, and police officers come to Andie's rescue with uplifting support after her husband shoots her and eventually beats her severely. This story is a family drama of renewed life, moving forward after a tragedy, and the rewards of second chances. This novel tells how honest caring concern, filled with hope for others, brings about a new direction for these credible characters.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Sep 27, 2023
• ISBN: 9798350912555

Book preview

BK90079655.jpg

Where It Began

©2023 by Patricia Clifton

This book is a work of fiction. References to real people, events, establishments, organizations, or locals are intended only to provide a sense of authenticity and are used fictitiously. All other characters, and all incidents and dialogue are drawn from the author’s imagination or the public domain and are not to be considered as real.

All rights are reserved. Published in the United States of America. No parts of the book may be used or reproduced in any manner without written permission except in questions used within articles of review.

Published by BookBaby Publishing, Co., Pennsauken, NJ.

ISBN (soft cover) 979-8-35091-254-8

ISBN (e-book) 979-8-35091-255-5

Behind the cloud the starlight lurks,

Through showers the sunbeams fall,

For God, who loveth all his works,

Has left his Hope with all.

—John Greenleaf Whittier

Contents

1. Sarah and Jim

2. Andie

3. Sarah

4. Andie

5. Jim and Sarah

6. Andie

7. Jim and Sarah

8. Jim and Andie

9. Jim and Sarah

10. Andie

11. Sarah and Jim

12. Andie

13. Fred

14. Jim and Andie

15. Jim and Sarah

16. Andie

17. Jim and Andie

18. Fred

19. Fred and Rhonda

20. Andie and Joe

21. Andie and Fred

22. Andie and Joe

23. Andie

24. Andie and Joe

25. Andie

26. Ms. Watson

27. Joe

28. Andie and Joe

29. Joe

30. Ms. Watson, Joe, and Andie

31. Joe and Andie

32. Joe and Andie

33. Andie

34. Andie

35. Joe and Andie

36. Andie and Molly

37. Joe and Andie

38. Andie and Joe

1

Sarah and Jim

The limo ride back to the airport was more enchanting than the evening they had arrived at the resort. A light frost was covering the ground and the woodlands were caught in the chill of this early fall New England cold front. This was a monumental weekend in Sarah’s life. All within a few lovely moments, her life changed.

Sarah sat with friends, as a chill caused her to quiver, and it felt as though a silent frosty cloud was isolating her in this silent chamber. She dropped her head as though falling into a troubling dream and thought of her past marriage. Hearing the word marriage is concerning. I remember my now deceased husband’s controlling anger and mental abuse…

Sarah jumped as Jim cradled her hand. I love you, my dear.

She smiled as she looked upon his gentle face remembering his respectful nature and knew her future would be peaceful. My life with this comforting man is filled with hope…not like my previous life, lived in constant fear. She thought of last evening when he unexpectedly presented a lovely antique engagement ring as he proposed. She touched his face and felt secure with this caring man. You mean the world to me.

Jim’s brother Bill and his wife Joanne looked admiringly at this couple and thought of Jim and his life’s journey, and Sarah as a needed part of his future. Joanne smiled with excitement as she snuggled closer to Bill and delighted in this stalwart man.

On the plane returning to Savannah, Jim was attentive to Sarah. He admired her thoughtful expressions and gazed longingly into her sparkling brown eyes. For Jim, meeting Sarah and now their engagement gave momentum for a future he had once seen as bleak. He admired her personality and love of friends. He loved the way she was attentive to his everyday life.

Sarah often looked at her engagement ring and thought of Jim’s mother and how so long ago she had introduced Sarah to Jim through her letters. Now after years of personal happenings, they discovered Sarah was the one his mother had mentioned. Their association soon transformed into a commitment. After some time of getting to know each other, their relationship led to Sarah’s acceptance of his lovely ring, and a future with Jim.

Sarah looked into his eyes and said, Jim, you were patient with me as I rebuilt my life and learned to trust. I’m thankful for your endurance in waiting as I was growing in strength.

I saw a sweet, charming lady…one I wanted as my own. I loved you from the beginning and today, I love you more.

Their plane landed in Savannah and after a quick evening meal, Jim and Sarah left for home. As Jim neared Sarah’s farmhouse, he looked upon her face and it appeared downcast.

They sat in his truck parked in her driveway as Sarah began to talk. I have loved our time together…I will miss you.

You’re thoughtful. He hesitated. Sometimes I think, I’m an old man, why do you have such care for me? It seems you would want someone more your age and you know I’m past my prime in many ways.

Sarah paused at his absurdity of needing reassurance. My love, there are other feelings in the autumn of our years that nourishes our wellbeing. I thought any day now you would whisk me away to your fabulous beach house in the Bahamas and we would spend time on your yacht with your full crew at my beck and call.

You’re just teasing me…that’s beyond what I have to give you. I believe you’re saying there is something special about our lives…that outlandish pleasures are not high on your list…that you care for the simplicity of togetherness.

I don’t want or need lavish material things. I cherish the feeling of being your friend…your partner.

I don’t have those other things, but you’ve stayed true to me in the humble life I have. Honest caring is better than those material things.

Sarah took his hands in hers. My dear, I said those exaggerated things because I only want your caring heart. I admire your manly charms and beliefs, and your physical and mental abilities. I appreciate your ethics, your character and most of all your sweet passions filled with warmth and excitement…a cottage, beside a pond, and a rowboat, will work.

I don’t have a cottage but have a house…a pond and a boat. Jim said with a humble smile.

Having you near, holding my hand gives me a reassuring feeling. At this time in our life…trust and being with a worthy friend is above anything that can be bought…and two out of three is not bad.

Jim laughed, kissed her fingers, I can talk with you about anything, and know I’m sharing it with a fair and honest companion. I admire that. He pulled her close, and whispered, You’re so warm. With feelings of reluctance, Jim carried her bags into her farmhouse.

Soon, I start a new job at Ardsley Park in Savannah. Tomorrow, I have things to get ready for the job. I love you and look forward to seeing you after lunch.

I will bring our dinner. I love you…good night my dear.

He kissed her, I know it will be…with thoughts of you. With a look of regret, he left her for the short ride to his house.

Sarah worked through the morning unpacking and caring for her clothing. As she attended to each item, her thoughts returned to the excitement of wearing each piece. When she came across the black dress, the one she wore the night Jim asked her to marry him, she swayed and danced. I remember the romantic evening and the dance we had in our room. I will never forget his charming face, she whispered only to herself.

Sarah was confident in her future with Jim. They were enjoying life, but when Jim unexpectedly asked her to marry him, she was overcome with emotions. She had grown as a confident woman and loved Jim but had some uncertainty within herself about moving forward.

Jim assured her by saying, whatever concerns you, we will take care of…for he was comfortable in their love and felt confident with Sarah as his wife.

For their dinner, Sarah baked a chicken casserole and cooked a pot of French green beans. She placed each in a white wicker basket. Jim was excited to see Sarah arrive, especially bringing baskets of food. I enjoy her cooking.

Jim unloaded his suitcase, and they washed the clothes he had worn during their trip. Sarah helped him fold his things, as Jim put the items away. She also washed two loads of his work clothes from the week before they left.

As they worked Jim asked if she had any questions about his proposal, I don’t want to rush you in any way…I want you to be sure, but a wedding tomorrow will be fine.

Sarah laughed as she said, My dear, I thought it over…I know how contented I am with you and your family. I’ve paid close attention to your personality, temperament, and work ethics, and see you as a credible man. Sarah stepped forward and rubbed his shirt placket. I’m overjoyed, but tomorrow is a bit soon. Sarah stared into his lovely grey green eyes, moved closer.

I love you. Jim whispered against her ear.

Sarah rested her hand on his chest, I feel so contented, and it all seems right.

Jim smiled as he responded, I know you have a place in my heart, also, my family’s hearts. I would like for us to put our thoughts together and make a few decisions about our wedding. It sounds like I’m anxious and I am.

I like the idea of having something soon. We can share our feelings tomorrow night. If you like, I can bring something for dinner.

Your shrimp recipe is the best…the marinate is delicious. I should be here by four.

Are you ready for our meal…would you like to sit on the porch? Sarah said in a relaxed way.

With a warm smile and a quick hug, Yes, it’s a nice warm day and I’m hungry. We can put our things on this tooled aluminum tray. My mother used this tray often. When you were decorating, you placed it, much like she placed it.

The magnolia tree has almost finished blooming for this season, but I can still remember its sweet summer fragrance. Jim touched her shoulder as she spoke, and Sarah felt his warmness.

The lingering fragrance of the last few blossoms brought back sweet memories. I remember those mornings, you were here decorating, and we drank coffee out here. We mentioned back then about redecorating the bedroom. After the wedding we can concentrate on that.

Yes, that will be exciting. Sarah spoke with immeasurable joy, influenced by her thoughts of the wedding, and the welcomed changes about to take place in her life.

After carrying their things into the kitchen, Jim spoke, If you don’t mind, I would like to carry a container of your casserole to work for lunch. The new job starts tomorrow, with a new for me project manager. Your casserole will be my comfort food.

Starting a new project with new people sounds challenging, but I know you and you will be fine. I’m glad you enjoyed this recipe.

They cleaned the kitchen and packed Sarah’s wicker baskets. Jim looked at Sarah with a feeling of enchantment, My love, I know it’s nearing time for you to leave, but I would like to sit in my chair and talk for a while. Your mannerisms are enticing me to not let you go without a few moments of quiet reminiscing.

2

Andie

The Savannah Parks Department was reworking, and landscaping Ardsley Park, and Andie McGinnis was the lead supervisor for the project. Several new garden areas were planned, and many areas refurbished. Jim’s company is installing the new park entrance gates and metal fencing around the four-block area. While grouping the plantings for the park entrance, Andie waited for Jim and his crew to arrive.

Mid-morning, she noticed several trailers of fencing thread their way into an adjoining parking lot. A medium height, slender gentleman dressed in a denim shirt, jeans and a faded Brewers cap caught her eye. Her sparkling new Braves cap looked fresh out of the box compared to his cap. As soon as he spotted someone he waved and hurriedly walked in her direction as he tapped his leg with a roll of paper she recognized as project drawings.

Hello, I’m Jim Alexander, he said as he reached out to shake her hand. Can you possibly tell me if this is the main entrance to the park?

Hello Jim, I’m Andie McGinnis.

You are? Jim said with an astonished look on his face.

Andie laughed as she said, Yes.

I’m sorry…I’m in shock…I mean…you’re a woman…I mean I thought I would be working with, Andy, a man. That wasn’t intended to be a sexist statement, please don’t get me wrong. Let me start over as soon as I get my foot out of my mouth. He shuffled his feet, his face reddened. I’m Jim…I’m here to install the perimeter fencing of the park.

Andie smiled as she noticed his red face and heard him catch his breath as he realized the predicament he had created. I promise I won’t bring a harassment suit against you. Andie said as she shook his extended hand with a vigorous grip.

They laughed, then smiled and looked at each other as they realized a mountainous hurdle was cleared. He slipped his hand from hers as the crew foreman came over to make sure he was in the right place.

David, my crew foreman, this is Miss, Mrs. Ms., here we go…McGinnis.

It’s just Andie. Glad to meet you, David.

David admired her inquisitive, chestnut brown eyes as he blatantly stated, We’re here to install the fencing, and need to see the project foreman, if he’s available.

Jim dropped his head, smiled a big grin, twisted his head a little as his lips and eyes cringed when he heard the word ‘he.’ Jim thought, here we go again, but I think she can handle it. As he turned to look at Andie, she was looking at him with a devilish smile.

I’m the project supervisor overseeing the design, landscaping, and hardscapes for the park project. I’ll show you where to start, Andie said as she winked at Jim and reached out for his set of drawings. With vigor she led them through the maze of landscaping plants to the point beside the brick columned entrance. After a general discussion, the guys had a clear understanding of the project and placement of the fencing. They also had an understanding and respect for Andie and her professionalism.

After gathering this valued information, the crew unloaded their equipment and materials. Each crew set up a workstation at each entrance column for installing the fencing.

During their break for lunch, Jim took his casserole and cup of iced tea from the cooler. The crew discussed the progress of their installation and agreed the job should go well.

Before going back to work, Jim went to the privacy of his truck and called Sarah. Barely before she answered, Jim said, Sarah, it’s the best morning at work. The foreman, Andie, I thought was going to be a man, turned out to be a kind young lady with a sense of humor and is wonderful to work with. I put my foot in my mouth first thing, but we laughed it off.

Jim, that’s good news…not about your foot but enjoying the folks you’re working with.

Yes, I have more to tell you, but I’ll wait until I get home. How is your day going?

I’m working on our wedding. Helen called and has volunteered to organize the reception…she wants our input along the way. She has such wonderful ideas.

Glad she called. I need to go, but I can hardly wait to get home to you…I’m so excited about getting our wedding plans underway. Almost forgot what I called for…the casserole was delicious…hold on to that recipe.

Thank you, I will. Have a great afternoon…be careful where you put your foot…Love you.

Jim and the crew had a productive afternoon. They finished installing several sections of fencing on each side of the entrance. Jim’s plan to leave by four to load things needed for the next day and make their wedding plans was on schedule. He was looking forward to spending the evening with Sarah.

Before leaving for the day, Jim walked to the east section of the park and found Andie intently looking at the Asian park area. He hesitated to speak, but she heard leaves crackling and looked in his direction. I’m leaving early today, getting together with Sarah…we’re planning our wedding.

Planning your wedding, how sweet. Congratulations, Andie beamed as she reached out to shake Jim’s hand…then clasp it with her other hand and looked considerately into his eyes.

We’re second timers, our spouses have passed away. We are looking forward to our marriage.

I’m overjoyed to see someone in their later years having a second chance to enjoy the companionship of a sweet partner. Andie almost teared up as she thought of being in love with an honest spouse.

Jim recognized her trembling voice as her lip quiver. Sarah has given me a new life and at this age has added meaning and a reason to get up in the morning. We are a compatible team. I hope you are experiencing this same kind of relationship.

I can see the sparkle in your eyes that Sarah is special to you. I’m proud and wish you two the best. With work and schedules, I must say I’m not as fortunate as you and Sarah, but maybe when life settles down for us, in our later years, things will get better. Andie smiled and discreetly wiped a tear as it rolled down her cheek.

Jim noticed, thought of his life as a young married man, and related to her anguish. Sarah is special. I would like you to meet her. She loves flowers and would be fascinated visiting with you.

If there’s anything I can do to help with the wedding, let me know. It’s been enjoyable getting to know you and I’m sure Sarah is an important part of your life. Enjoy your evening.

Thank you, I almost forgot, tomorrow will you bring a can of Crisco in case my size ten shoe gets caught in my mouth.

With a beaming smile, she adjusted her cap and said, I will, just in case.

As he tapped the brim of his cap he said, You know the Brewers and the Braves play tonight. Looks as though you’ll be pulling for the Braves.

I’m Braves through and through.

When I was a kid, my aunt and uncle, who lived in Milwaukee, took me to all the summer home games, so I grew up liking the Brewers. Jim remembered his childhood and felt proud of the things his aunt and uncle taught him about life.

Andie was interested. Are you from Milwaukee?

No, I grew up in this area, but not here in the city. When I was young, after my dad died, my mom sent me to her sister’s home each summer. They were good to me, and we had a wonderful time together, maybe except for a few times. I was a rambunctious kid.

Well may the best team win tonight, she said with a slight grin as she tapped her cap.

You bet, and don’t forget, Crisco, Jim said as he turned to walk away. The smile on his face brought a feeling of excitement to his heart. Wow, she certainly has a charming personality. I know I will enjoy working with Andie.

In a daze, Andie turned and tripped on a stone, but caught herself with her shovel. She whispered, I better stop smiling…get my thoughts back on work.

3

Sarah

Sarah awoke with visions of sweet anticipation. She felt warm under the covers of silky cotton sheets and a fluffy comforter. Her room was dimly lit as heavy drapes protected the room from the damp coolness of the outside while letting in no hint of the rising sun. She thought of Jim and kissed her lovely ring in remembrance of his politeness. She smiled as she saw her future filled with peace and love in her heart for Jim and his family.

While in a dreamy reality, she thought, I always knew he was special. I knew it at that first introduction when he held my hand and looked into my eyes. She was thankful she accepted his request to redecorate parts of his lovely family home.

Jim had reached a point where he could care less about the house. His extra money was spent on living…often with abandonment. He knew his lifestyle was a cover for the pain he was suffering, but he was lost in a whirlwind that carried him along. Jim saw no reason for an escape, he said to me, until I came into his life.

Her past abusive marriage created reluctance in giving to his loving arms, but the discovery of their long-ago connection created in his mother’s letters was the turning point. Their names were never shared by her, and their lives had never crossed, but their endearing remembrance of the letters never faded. Through a casual introduction, Jim realized Sarah was the brown-eyed girl he was searching for, and Sarah smiled as she remembered his mother who befriended her.

Sarah, lost in thought whispered, In times of sadness, through my life, I cried out for the vision of this sweet mother’s son.

She watched him while she decorated parts of his home and grew to admire this man, but her past haunted her, and she couldn’t give into more than just a professional friendship. Discovering he was the one she held a vision of caused a floodgate of emotions to surge to the surface. In her thoughts, their lives were tied together earlier, and now found the string was still tied tight.

While in the misty midst between reality and dreaming, Sarah’s eyes closed, and didn’t wake until her alarm sounded at seven. Sarah shifted in the warm covers, and in a vision saw Jim beside her. She whispered in the quietness of her bedroom, Good morning, my love.

Sarah left for Jim’s in the mid-afternoon. She had put together a simple menu of shrimp to grill. She felt elated as she unloaded her food basket and organized everything for their dinner. As they finished their meal and cleaned the kitchen, Jim mentioned their wedding.

Today at work, I told Andie about our plans. She is excited for us and our second chance. She volunteered to help. I thought she could advise us on the new outdoor lighting we need and spruce up the yard with a few floral plantings.

That’s wonderful. It would give me a chance to meet this talented young lady, Sarah said with excitement in her voice.

I’ll ask her tomorrow…with your love of flowers…you two will enjoy each other. Dear, my list of wedding thoughts is in the den beside the special chair…would you like to sit there? Do you think we will ever stop referring to this chair as special?

I think it will always have that name. In my heart it has meaning.

Jim picked up his list and waited for Sarah to speak first. It is her day. With excitement showing on her face she said, The lovely little country church you attend will be perfect for our wedding. What do you think?

As Sarah was talking, a warm smile filled Jim’s face. That sounds perfect. It’s small, personal, and it’s our church.

We can have your children as our attendants with plenty of room for others to attend. Sarah’s smile broadened with thought, I would like David to walk me down the aisle. In her excitement, she exclaimed, I would like for David to escort me, then move beside you as your best man.

Jim’s heart filled with pride when he heard Sarah speak so complimentary of David. Jim knew David would be thrilled to be Sarah’s escort.

They decided on the country church for their wedding and continue the celebration of this lovely event by inviting additional guests to a reception at Jim’s country home.

The reception Helen is arranging is a big responsibility. She needs our input on the menu, decorations, and music. We will need to check with her often to help. Also, she will need a budget for flowers, paying everyone and extras needed.

I’ll talk to her about the money. I know I would like some real food, not all finger food. Decorations…you girls are best at handling that and music…stringed instruments and of course a piano.

Sarah smiled as their wedding vision was clear.

Jim grinned, Making wedding plans is something I thought I would never do again, but I’m overjoyed with watching your excitement.

This is new to me, also…my wedding long ago, was ten minutes with the Justice of the Peace and a honeymoon spent in my apartment. It was a marriage filled with wilted smiles and frustrated submission. One I’m trying to forget, Sarah mused.

Jim reached out to Sarah with a need for comfort. Come to me…I’m glad I discovered my sweet brown eyed girl. They smiled broadly with thoughts of their new life.

Jim’s children were thrilled with the wedding and couldn’t wait to add some personal features to this special day. Helen suggested Becky Jones as the caterer and was making a list of food and refreshments, and Mary Beth volunteered to help Sarah shop for a wedding dress. David volunteered his family and was sure he along with his sisters were pleased with Sarah marrying their dad.

In the past, Helen had questioning feelings toward Sarah. She accused her of being a widow looking for a home and a man who looked like he had money. Through Sarah’s sincere concern for the family, Helen eventually saw Sarah as the one reuniting their family.

Jim…knowing a little of what she had been through, was patient with Sarah. He could see the kindness of her heart. He had also been through an emotional ending to his marriage, with his wife’s illness.

In his heart he felt Sarah was the one for him, and he nurtured her as she grew from her past. He was there to comfort her in her longings. In their growing process they leaned on each other and eventually felt an innate depth of caring.

4

Andie

While enjoying the crispness of the afternoon, Andie left early from work to go by the nursery to order enough liriope plants for areas along the Japanese Garden walkway. She was a bit disappointed to find Melissa wasn’t there…she was taking care of personal business. Randy kindly helped Andie find the plants she needed and scheduled for delivery for Monday morning. He also, showed her a Japanese Red Maple clipped in a sweeping Bonsai growth formation. Andie was fascinated by the tree and imagined its placement draping over the waterfall at the headway