1Scherzo

The sun hung in the Houston sky like a small halo, gently hovering as the earth turned its other face toward her. Clouds exploded with a symphony of pinks and oranges. Laurie squinted her eyes and for a moment, gazed out at its infinite glory. Today, Laurie was as out of place as her compact car on the grass lawn, sandwiched between two pickup trucks. She hated the idea of politics and the mere thought that she would be parked on a governors lawn made her sweat. She pulled the visor down on her car, shielding her eyes, and downed the last few drops from a box of wine she had been working on. Laurie left her car and began walking toward the governor's mansion. She tossed the empty wine box on the grass as she came up on the front porch.

A man wearing an ill fitting tuxedo met Laurie as she came to the door.

Hello Dr. Ross, said the man as he scribbled something on the clipboard he was holding, Of all the governor's esteemed guests, I think he is most excited to see you.

Are you the governor's esteemed butler? said Laurie.

Not quite I am Richard White's campaign manager, Tyler, Tyler Ireland, The man said as he removed his hand from the clipboard and held it out to Laurie.

Pleasure to meet you Tyler Ireland, said Laurie.

As Tyler went on about god knows what, Laurie spied a man through the window. The man had slick black hair and was surrounded by a hoard of women. Tyler noticed hes words were falling on deaf ears and looked through the window with Laurie.

I see you have noticed another of our esteemed guests, country star Kevin Hatch, I could introduce you if you'd like, said Tyler.

That wont be necessary, we unfortunately run in the same circles, but I would enjoy a glass of champagne.

* * *

Lights from the cameras flashed against Governor White's teeth. The governor held a small boy in his arms while his wife, Cindy, stood looking proudly at the two. He is all boy, said Cindy, with a beautifully rehearsed laugh. She took the child from her husband and brushed a small tuft of hair on the boy's head. This child right here is why y'all need to get out and vote to reelect my husband as governor. I know he's the only man who will protect the people of Texas and create a future where our little Lucas can play football at Texas Tech.

I thought we decided he was going to be an Aggie, said Governor White with unfaltering poise. The media and surrounding guests laughter seemed just as rehearsed. Cindy handed Lucas to a housemaid and she took the sleepy child to his room.

Cindy made the announcement that dinner was ready and the party was herded into the dining room.

The guests gathered around the three circular tables in the dining room. The governor and his wife sat at the head of the main table overlooking the dinner party. Laurie found her place card and took her seat. A round mustachioed man in a cowboy hat and his thin wife with cross earrings sat in between her and the governor. As the servers finished bringing out the first course, Governor White rose to his feet and cleared his throat. The room hushed.

Excuse me, y'all. Excuse me, said the governor. Let me first just say what an honor it's been serving the great state of Texas these last two terms. It is your undying support, along with the grace of

God, that allows me to lead this beautiful land. Now I know y'all have been waiting long enough to eat, and I know better than to try to pick a hungry man's pocket, so could you please remove your hats and bow your heads while my lovely wife says grace.

The governor sat down and lowered his head, revealing a luminous bald spot. Laurie bowed her head but left her eyes open scanning the guests.

Dear heavenly Father, Cindy began. Thank you for this day, this opportunity to live, and to care for our loved ones. Thank you for granting us admission into your glorious kingdom, so that we no longer need fear. Please bless these delicious steaks and potatoes and mostly thank you for making me a Texan. Amen.

Amen

That was beautiful, said Kevin.

Oh, goodness, said Cindy with red cheeks. I've never had a hard time talking, even in front of crowds, but I just get so nervous praying. You're talking to Jesus. That's big stuff.

Tyler clumsily pulled out his chair and sat next to Kevin. I was on the phone. What did I miss?

The round man brushed some crumbs from his mustache and turned to . It's been a terribly close race so far. Hell, I even hear that some liberal news outlet had you two points behind.

I miss the days when those damn hippies didn't know how to vote, said Governor White. But please, let's save the work talk for after dinner. My only wish is to enjoy the company of you lovely people.

Cindy, seeing her husband in distress, perked up and said, My goodness, it isn't every day that I am able to sit in between a famous singer and a brilliant scientist.

I hardly think that my singing compares to the work of Dr. Ross, said Kevin.

Oh you're just being modest. I still get choked up every time American Dreamer comes on the radio.

Well, that is a beautiful sentiment, but I have grown to hate that song over the years, said Kevin. He left his champagne glass untouched and sipped his water.

Cindy looked at Kevin like he had killed a hamster. How could that be true? That song means a lot to people.

I know that, but I never really wanted to be a country singer, said Kevin. I started my music career as a classical pianist, but that didn't pay the bills. Then I tried my hand as a composer. I was obsessed with Wagner, and tried to publish a set of string quartets as an homage to him.

I heard Wagner was an anti-Semite, said Tyler, working on cutting an especially pink cut of steak.

That steak looks a little rare, Mr. Ireland. Maybe you could send it back, said Kevin.

Its fine, Tyler mumbled through a mouthful of meat. A small stream of red juice flowed down his chin.

So what happened next? asked Cindy.

Well, the short version is I needed money, Kevin continued, and a college buddy got a country gig that he said would pay five hundred dollars, which was more money than I had ever seen, so I took it. The band started to take off and we moved from Salt Lake City to Texas and the rest is history.

Wow, that is a story, said Cindy, she touched at her husbands arm. Can you believe that ?

I thought beliefs weren't an appropriate topic for dinner conversation, said the governor as he sawed at his food.

Well neither is politics, but never seems to stop you boys, said Cindy, laughing, and she and

the governor drank from their glasses.

Laurie chuckled a bit to herself, taking note. She was succeeding so far in avoiding eye contact with the guests, which brought her pleasure. She motioned to the waiter to fill up her now empty champagne glass. Cindy also had her glass refilled in an attempt to establish some womanly camaraderie between them.

Dr. Ross, or Laurie, can you please give us a break from the monotony of political nonsense, asked Cindy.

Well, I'd hardly say science is a great dinner topic. No one wants to be told that the sun is going to explode.

But there must be something less odious you can speak of.

In the quantum world, Laurie began, when you have extremely small particles sometimes those particles can start to synchronize. Eventually they become so in sync, they can immediately detect changes in the other particle, even over vast distances, effectively breaking the speed of light.

Could that be an explanation for why love exists? asked Cindy.

Oh, so you're the scientist, said the round man. Are you one of those crack-pots who expects us to believe that the universe was created from a bang and that I used to be a monkey?

Well, I don't even believe the moon exists unless I look at it, so I don't expect the public to believe anything I say, Laurie said.

In the defense of science, you do look somewhat like a monkey, said the governor looking proud of himself for saying something so clever.

What did you mean about the moon? said Cindy her face shrouded with concern.

Oh, nothing, said Laurie, remembering past events in which she had said too much.

I've got this one, Laurie, said Kevin. You take a cat, and you place it in a cardboard box

Does it have to be a cat? I'm allergic, said Cindy.

I think it can be anything, as long as it fits in the box, Kevin continued.

Laurie laughed as she let Kevin explain to Cindy the nuances of quantum mechanics. Soon the party had finished their steaks, and the wait staff had begun clearing the tables. Cindy, took pity on Laurie for being alone at the fundraiser, invited her upstairs to check on the little boy Luke. Kevin was enjoying telling a tour anecdote to the mustachioed man's wife, when he felt a hand on his shoulder. It was the hand of Governor White who invited Kevin to his study for a cigar.

* * *

The governors study was mostly circular, no doubt purchased for its similarity to the oval office. Green curtains covered the windows and a small crucifix hung watching over the desk. The Governor flipped open a box of cigars, selected one and cut the cap from the head of it. He slid the box over to Kevin, who politely declined. Kevin pulled a pack of cigarettes from his coat.

I never could get into cigars. I was always under the impression that the whole point was to inhale, said Kevin. chuckled and circled the desk, placing himself next to Kevin but staring toward a painting of a horse that hung on the wall. He pointed his cigar at the painting and said, My wife picked this up at an art show for me a couple years back. I prefer cubism, but Duchamp doesn't really read as governor-ly does it?

Seems like she made a well-calculated decision. It does remind me of you a bit, that giant cigar hanging out of your mouth and all.

The Governor burst out in roaring laughter. You know I think you make a much better comic than musician.

That is probably true.

Kevin, I noticed that you didn't touch the champagne at dinner. Was it not up to your standards? asked Governor White.

Kevin took a long drag and puffed a cloud of smoke out the open window. No I'm sure it was just fine, I just recently had what you could call a spiritual awakening of sorts. Anyway I've given up

drinking, and hopefully for good this time, he said.

How inspiring. Do you mind if I ask how long its been since your last drink?

I do not, let me see... Kevin squinted at the horse painting as if it would be able to assist him with his arithmetic. It has been exactly nine and a half days.

Governor White nodded at Kevin and walked over to the small bar he had tucked away in the corner. Would it be terrible of me to enjoy some scotch in your presence? he asked as he poured himself a drink.

I think I'll be all right governor.

You are a stronger man than I, Kevin. These fundraisers always kill me. Would you like to see some real art? asked the governor. When Kevin nodded, he reached up to the crucifix and pulled a small key from its top and used it to unlock one of the drawers of his desk. Kevin leaned over to see what he would reveal. Mr. White pulled out a stack of men's magazines. As he handed one of the magazines to Kevin, the door creaked open, and Tyler Ireland poked his head into the study.

Can I use the restroom in here? The others are occupied, asked Tyler

Tyler the adults are speaking, said the governor through the cigar in his teeth.

Tyler quickly pulled his head from the entryway.

He's kind of an odd one, isn't he? said Kevin as he rifled through a magazine.

Yes but he's been with me since the first election. He's sensitive and a pain in my ass, but he knows where the bodies are buried, so what can you do?

Kevin and Governor Whites eyes met for a moment in silence and then Rich burst out in that signature laugh of his. Kevin feigned laughter.

You know, Kevin, I respect you, so I won't beat around the bush anymore. I invited you here because I would like to ask you if I can use American Dreamer as the theme song for my reelection campaign.

Dammit, Rich, I was having such a good time tonight, said Kevin, now holding up a magazine to look at the centerfold.

Think about it, Kevin. It would be great publicity. Think of all the records you'll sell. You can even sing at my inauguration, if you want.

With all due respect, governor, I don't want to be back in the spotlight. I want to disappear, said Kevin, still studying the photograph. I know too many of the women in these magazines.

The governor came closer to Kevin and gabbed his shoulder. The aroma of the bourbon tickled Kevin's nose. I respect your decision, Kevin, he said and the two men walked out of the study.

* * *

Laurie and Cindy stood in the doorway of Luke's room. Moonlight from the window illuminated the boys room with a blue glow.

Isn't he just beautiful, said Cindy, gazing lovingly upon her boy.

Yes, he looks so peaceful, replied Laurie as she crept toward the boys bed to get a closer look at the specimen.

Are you a mother? asked Cindy, as she lowered herself to the foot of the childs bed. She twisted the boys soft hair in her fingers.

No.

I feel that it was always in God's plan for me to be a mother. That it was my destiny, if you will. She turned and looked to Laurie. I'm sure you don't believe in that sort of thing do you?

God or destiny?

Destiny, but may I ask if you believe in God? said Cindy.

I would be a fool if I said there was no God, because I can't prove it either way.

I like to think that there's something bigger than us, said Cindy. How sad would it be if this is all there is?

Laurie tried to drink from her glass but found that it was already empty. Although they were alone Cindy lowered her voice.

Can I tell you something, woman to woman? asked Cindy, looking up at Laurie with a supernatural force that made her shiver.

Sure.

I'm worried about Luke, said Cindy. Last week I took him with me to the department store. We were having a lovely time looking at toys and sporting goods. I went to try on a dress and, when I came out of the dressing rooms, he was gone. I lost him! I was scared half to death. I looked for him in all of the places I thought he would be, and he was nowhere. I looked for him for what felt like an eternity and then I finally found him. Cindy paused for a moment, her throat clenched up and she took a sip from her glass. I found him in the mens clothing section, standing in front of an aisle of men's underwear. Just gazing at a wall of men's packages. I dropped what I was carrying, scooped him up and ran out of the store.

Laurie looked at Cindy with confusion.

I know that little boy better than anything. He was looking up at those men's crotches like it was Christmas morning. Cindy began to cry.

Laurie wanted desperately to comfort her but this was outside of her area of expertise.

Laurie you're the smartest person I know. I know I just met you, but please you have to tell me what to do.

Laurie stood in astonishment and silence as a gentle breeze pushed the curtains.

Cindy wiped her eyes. I am scared to tell Rich because if he knew his little boy was gay, he may not love him anymore. Laurie please answer me. If God knows the future before it happens, why would he make my little angel gay and condemn him to life of sin and an eternity in hell?

Even for Laurie, who could do trigonometry in her head, this information was too much to

compute. She had seen monkeys offer silent comfort to one another through touch. She sat next to Cindy on the bed and placed her hand upon the weeping mother. Eventually Laurie asked Cindy if she was thirsty and left the room for more champagne. Cindy tucked in her son and placed a kiss on his forehead. She walked slowly through the halls and arrived upon Governor White's study. She entered the room to turn off a light which had been left on, she noticed something strange on her husband's desk.

* * *

Kevin stood alone on the governor's porch. He lit another cigarette and let the cool night air wash over him like a wave.

The governor appeared in the entryway with Great Dane on a leash pulling him forward. He struggled to keep his cigar between his teeth. You like dogs Kevin? he asked.

Kevin nodded and reached toward the dog to pet him.

The Governor became frustrated trying to control the energetic creature, and yelled into the house to summon Tyler. Tyler, since you're not keeping me a head in the polls, the least you can do is walk my dog, said .

Fine, but could you please give me one moment? I really have to

Dammit, Tyler, I pay you way too much for this much attitude, said , handing the leash to Tyler. He turned to Kevin. Walk with me.

Kevin and walked out onto the lawn with Tyler walking with the dog, tensely behind. The posse came upon a beautiful white fountain, whose waters were lit by the moonlight. The governors dog began to drink the shining water.

Jesus, how do you afford all this stuff? I thought I was somewhat wealthy before I met you, said Kevin.

The qualities that make me a successful politician, are the same qualities that made me a

successful business man.

They say that behind every great fortune, there is a great crime.

They do say that. Yes.

So my question is you seem like a good guy. So what's the great crime?

Governor White chuckled. My family had money but my father was an irresponsible man, he couldn't think about the big picture and squandered our family fortune. I managed to save up some money during my time in the military and used it to buy a tow truck. I saved up enough money to start a business and that business grew into national franchise.

So you kidnapped cars and held them for the ransom. I wouldn't exactly call that a great crime.

Governor White laughed and pulled a flask from his pocket. He took a swig and held it out to Kevin. Kevin reached for the flask out of habit, but the governor pulled it away.

How rude of me, said the governor. Sorry Kevin, these events always make me so forgetful.

took another gulp from the flask, and Kevin took a long painful drag from his cigarette. The band of men circled the fountain and went back toward the house. They arrived at plot of land devoted to the remaining guests cars. The Governor stopped at shiny black Corvette Stingray, pulled the cigar out of his mouth, and said Now this is a car. He walked around the Stingray, running his fingers across the freshly detailed fiberglass. What year do you recon it is?

That is a 63, said Kevin.

You must really know your cars, Mr. Hatch, said Governor White.

Not really, just this one. I own it.

Kevin unlocked the car and opened the door for Governor White. The governor sat down in the driver's seat while the Great Dane pulled Tyler in zigzags around the lawn.

You even got the leather interior. Thats a nice touch, said as he gripped the steering

wheel, pretending to drive on the open road. He looked up to Kevin. Can you tell me more about this awakening that made you quit drinking?

I don't know. How does one go about describing a spiritual experience? said Kevin.

Kevin, you seem like an honest man. Why are you being dishonest?

Kevin stood frozen looking confused and scared. Even the cicadas hushed to eavesdrop on the men.

That Tyler is a pain, but I keep him around because, like that Great Dane, I also have that boy on a tight leash. The governor chuckled. He happens to be a very skilled researcher. You should see the file he prepared for you. Now, granted he was probably more thorough than usual, because he's a big fan of yours.

took several comically large gulps of from his flask and turned to Kevin. Now I wonder if, by coincidence, that on the same day of your spiritual awakening you were also arrested for a DWI? I'm curious, did you find God in the drunk tank that night, Kevin, or were you drinking to celebrate your newfound enlightenment?

Kevin stood outside the car shaking. The two men fell silent as Tyler was pulled near the car. puffed on his cigar and pretended to drive for a moment. You're a funny guy, Kevin. You should lighten up, said. Now, I didn't invite you here with the intention of busting your balls, but I did ask you very politely before, and my patience is much stronger in the day time. So here's the choice you need to make. Governor White pulled a pen and folded piece of paper from his coat pocket, and handed it to Kevin. You can sign this paper allowing the use of American Dreamer' and I will speak personally to the chief of police to make your little incident disappear. I am a privileged man and with privilege comes the opportunity for generosity.

Kevin watched in fear as grasped a devise that was mounted in his car. shook his flask to show that it was empty, and tossed it to Kevin.

Or I could blow that flask of Kentucky bourbon into this breathalyzer, and your ass will be in jail before you can crack wise. You see, Kevin, God gives all men the ability to choose and, like God, I have given you a choice I pray it will be the right one.

* * *

The men arrived back at the house. Tyler was sent to fetch Dr. Ross, and as they entered the estate, Rich gave Kevin a friendly pat on the back and went to entertain his guests. Kevin, feeling as if he had outworn his welcome, made his way toward the coat closet. He stumbled upon Cindy who was furiously washing dishes, pausing often to drink from the bottle of wine that sat next to the sink.

You look like you've seen a ghost, said Kevin.

Oh, hello, she said turning to look at him.

I expected that your staff would take care of this for you.

There is something simple about cleaning that calms me, she said, feigning sweetness. Her hands, red from the hot water and shaky from the wine fumbled a glass which shattered on the tile floor. She quickly bent down to clean up the shards and cut her finger on the glass. Blood started pouring from the gash and she held it up to Kevin and said, Help.

He grabbed her wrist and held her hand above her heart. The two rushed down the hallway and Kevin led her to the bathroom. Cindy pointed out the first aid kit and sat down on the toilet while Kevin searched furiously for a bandage. He grabbed her hand and started working to stop the bleeding.

You're very gentile, said Cindy who was covering her eyes which somehow made the pain diminish.

Well, I am a pianist, he said When you tour with a band of drunks and junkies, you get good at helping the injured.

There was a loud knock. Tyler's voice was heard muffled through the door. Occupied, yelled Kevin, as he put the finishing touches on Cindy's bandage.

Okay, the cut wasn't too bad. It was just a bleeder. I don't think you'll need stitches.

Can I look now? asked Cindy as she uncovered her eyes.

Do you feel nauseated or dizzy? he asked.

No, she said as she stood up and walked toward Kevin who was at the sink.

Is there anything else you need? Water or aspirin? he asked.

She held her hand up to his face and said Can you kiss it? Kevin took it gingerly and placed a small kiss on her bandaged hand. She ran her fingers through his hair and looked at him with eyes that made him feel strangely virginal. With her hand, she guided him down on his knees, and pulled him toward the opening in her dress.

* * *

Laurie stood in the governor's study, rifling through his collection of books. Most of the texts were old filler, designed to line the walls of the room. The governor succeeded in creating an impressive room lined with knowledge that would likely be untapped. She wondered if one of these books contained the reason became a politician. Laurie pulled an old copy of Newton's Principia from the shelf. She turned as she hear the door open.

Sorry to keep you waiting so long, said as he motioned to the book in Lauries hand. I see you are enjoying my collection.

Not nearly as much as I have enjoyed your champagne, said Laurie, who seemed to be more occupied by a drawing in the book than the governor. The flask of bourbon had done a number on 's cultivated manners. stepped toward Laurie. She retreated but found her back against a wall of books. took the book from Laurie's hand and put out his cigar on the page she was reading.

Look, it's obvious you are a smart woman. Hell, you may be smarter than every leader this country has seen. So why is it that I am standing here and you there? asked with a calm professorial tone.

Energy or power can take many forms. Perhaps mine has just manifested its self in a form which you cannot understand. Laurie pushed through the governor and collected her glass which sat on the bookshelf. Look, Rich, can I call you Rich? Rich, I'm very tired and would love to go home. You're the business man, so why don't we cut the shit and get to business.

The file on you didn't say you'd have this much bite, said , tossing the book into a wastebasket. But I do appreciate it. That is a quality we are looking for.

Please try be less vague. Time is money, Rich, said Laurie

took out a pen, scribbled something on a piece of paper and handed it to Laurie. I'm offering you the position of land commissioner, for the state of Texas. The number on the paper is the amount of money that will be transferred to your bank account today if you choose to accept.

Laurie looked at the paper and sighed. You really shouldn't have thrown that book away. You could learn from his writing. This was a man who, while sitting on a patch of grass in England managed to write and speak fluently a language that had only been spoken by the heavens. Can you imagine that? It gives me chills. May I see your pin, honorable Governor? Laurie grabbed the book from the wastebasket, tore a page from it and began writing. Governor White stood with his arms crossed, impatiently tapping his leather boot against the floor. Laurie handed the pen and paper to him.

I would hardly compare my mathematical ability to Newton's, but my skill at least for this situation should suffice. The first number is how many votes you will lose by if I'm removed from the picture. The second number, that big one, is the number of votes you will lose by if I accept the offer of your opponent, who is much more charming than you, I might add. Even with an endorsement from me, your race will be close, but if I endorse your opponent you will, undoubtedly, lose.

Governor White looked over the piece of paper scratching at his thinning hair.

I should be able to keep your hippies and environmentalists at bay, Laurie continued, but to do that, the number on this paper needs to be doubled. Can you do that math, Governor?

Governor White and Laurie left the library and turned the corner to see Tyler waiting outside the bathroom door, furiously pacing and clenching. Cindy emerged from the bathroom and was startled by Mr. Ireland. She nervously greeted him and turned down the hallway to find she was cornered by her husband and Dr. Ross. Tyler tried to get into the bathroom but was stopped by Kevin who ran a comb through his hair as he exited. Upon seeing his beloved wife leave the bathroom with another man, Governor White ran toward the musician. He made a fist and struck Kevin's face, dropping Kevin to the ground. The momentum of the strike couldn't be controlled by the drunken politician and he fell on top of Tyler. The weight of the governor was more than Tyler Ireland's fragile bowels could handle, and fall caused him to deficate. The smell of shame and feces filled the noses of the group. The governor and his manager picked themselves up and brushed themselves off. Cindy stood there with tears in her eyes. I hate you Richard, she said, and stormed out of the hallway.

* * *

Kevin and Laurie sat on a bench swing on the governors front porch. They swayed back and forth as the muffed screams of and Cindy radiated from the house. Kevin held an icy towel to the lump that had developed on his brow. The odd pair sat there for a while, swinging and experiencing the cool air on their skin.

Well, on the bright side, this dinner will go down in history as the night that Tyler Ireland ruined his trousers, said Laurie. Laughter began bubbling up in the two. Laurie took the towel and placed it on Kevin's wound.

I think we need Jesus, Laurie, said Kevin as he laid his hand in her lap.

Oh, stop that noise, Kevin. We don't deserve to be saved.