Small Town Tango - Jennifer LeJeune

7/29/2019 Small Town Tango - Jennifer LeJeune

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Small Town Tango

by Jennifer LeJeune

Copyright 2013 Blue Ribbon Books

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof

may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever

without the express written permission of the publisher

except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

All characters appearing in this work are fictitious.

Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead is purely

coincidental.

For questions and comments about this book, please

contact us at [email protected]


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Small Town Tango

Monica, get my grandmother on the line as soon as

ou can. My mother tells me that she isnt doing very well

n her own these days, and the health care in Little Hills absent, to say the least, says Bo.

Yes, sir, Mr. Brogan. That is awful to hear, I do

ope she is alright.

Bo Brogan loves his grandmother very much,

lthough he has not seen her in years due to his constant

ffort to make partner in one of the biggest, most

rominent law firms in Dallas, Texas. He has

ccomplished that goal now and is extremely successful

nd very well-known to the Dallas elite, yet he still feels

ke he is missing something. Bo has a yearning to be close

o his family now that he is finally settled in his life. He

ecently bought a luxury apartment building, on top of just

winning one of the most publicized murder cases the city

as seen in years. Plenty of people are envious of Borogan, but he feels like he is lacking so much and thinks


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hat his family is what could fill that emptiness. Bo is

etermined to have his grandmother come live in his

ewly acquired luxurious apartment building so he ca

eep a close watch on her; he is, after all, her only

randchild.


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Hellooo, this is Viola, said the cheery old lady on

he other end of the line.

Oh hello, Mrs. Brogan, Im so glad I caught you.

his is Monica, Bos secretary. I have Bo on the line for

ou.

Well, what a nice surprise! I havent spoken with

im in so long, Viola replies.

Yes, she smiles, I am transferring you now.

Hi Mammy. How are you? I have heard so manyhings. Mother says there isnt a cardiologist in town and

hat you really need to be close to one considering your

ondition. Have you stopped driving your car? How are

ou getting to the grocery? Who is helping you with chores

round the house?

Geez aloo! Slow down, boy! I can only answer one

uestion at a time. I am almost 89 years old, you are going

o have to give me a second to catch up. For starters, I a

ust fine and dandy, let me tell you. I dont know whatonsense this is that your mother is speaking of, but it is


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ust a big bunch of bologna if I have ever heard any!

But Mammy, Bo replies, I just dont see how you

re going to be able to make it in a town without the

roper medical care that you need and someone to helpou around the house. I know you want everyone to thin

hat the heart attack was no big deal, but you are still

ecovering, and you should have help. Please come live i

my new building. You would be right across the hall from

me, so I can check on you several times a day and get your

hopping done for you. Please, Mammy, begs Bo.

The thought of leaving the comfort of the tiny tow

Viola has lived in all of her life has never even crossed

er mind, why would she now? She has the church for

upport, and the women are so thoughtful of her, sheardly ever has to bake a pie. The boys come by once a

week to trim the lawn and pull the weeds. Little Hill is

he only place Viola has ever known as home, she cant

magine trying to make a home anywhere else, especially

n the city. Little Hills rolling hills and beautifulluebonnets, and the greenest of grass, and the tallest o

ees are her paradise. She could never say goodbye to

er home.

I dont think so, sonny, replies Viola, I was borncountry girl and I will always be a country girl, and i


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he country I will stay! I have no desire to live fifty feet up

n the air in some cramped apartment building with one

window, and a neighbor on the other side of my wall. I

eed my space and I need my air, FRESH air! Im sorry,

o, but it is absolutely out of the question.

As the days go by, Bo tries to come up with

ncentives to make his grandmother more inclined to come.

Maybe I can get her a ground unit with a small backyard

nd plant a flower bed, he thinks to himself. I will

nroll her in the womens bridge club. Maybe a unit

with a skylight will do the trick.

Katherine Bates is a sweet girl, who lives in Little

Hill and attends church with Miss Viola. She always

hecks on Miss Viola whenever she can, bringing herastries and her favorite peach tea from her bakery.

Katherines dad passed away a few years ago and left

ates Bakery to his only daughter whom he cherished

eeply. Katherines mother passed away when she was

ust a little girl, and now, with her father gone, she focusesmuch of her attention on God and volunteering wherever

he is needed. It makes her happy to make others happy.

Running a bake shop could never please her the way that

eading a book to a lonely patient in a nursing home, or

ooking meals for a needy family does. Her best friendsecky and Sally are the women who actually run the shop


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or her, so she can do the things that the Lord has called

er to do. Every once in a while she will pull a few shifts

nd make sure everything is going smoothly. The bake

hop was her fathers dream, not at all hers, but she

efinitely will not let it die. Bates Bakery is the mostopular place in town.

On Sunday morning, the church bells ring and

Katherine sees Miss Viola walking up the path. Luckily,

Miss Viola lives directly around the corner from the

hurch, so it is one place she has no problem getting to.

he enjoys the walk past all of the honeysuckle bushes, the

mell of honeysuckle is her favorite.

Good morning, Miss Viola, Katherine says with a

weet smile.

Well, good morning, my Katy bug.

As they walk up the path hand in hand, they admire

he pure white building with the tall slender steeple thatas a cross on the top. The large double oak doors are

warm and inviting. The stained glass windows on every

ide make the sanctuary look magical when the sun shines

n them. This is a place that brings peace and security to

heir hearts. It is likely that the love for the Little HillChurch of God and the loss of Katherines parents at such


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young age combined with the loss of Violas husband

ears ago are what have brought them so close.

Would you like me to walk you home after the

ervice?

Do you even have to ask? replies Viola. Would

ou mind changing out a light bulb for me, Katy bug? I just

ant seem to get up on that old step ladder anymore.

I certainly can, replies Katherine. Would you

mind making me one of your famous Viola turkey

andwiches?

Well, of course, I can, replies Viola.

They smile and giggle knowing they would do

nything for each other and there is no reason to even ask,

ut the habit of common courtesy is something that yo

annot un-teach yourself.

When they get to Mrs. Brogans driveway, they see

n unfamiliar red sports car sitting in the drive. Out pops a

ery-looking redhead wearing a black pencil skirt and a

ght black blouse.

Well, hello, she says in a very businesslike tone,


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walking towards Viola with an outstretched hand. Im

Monica Gavin; I work for your grandson, Bo. He has sent

me out to speak with you about some possible living

rrangements that he would like to have set up for you at

he Squire, his new apartment building. Its quiteuxurious, I am sure you will be very pleased with what I

ave to show you.

Viola had been expecting this. Katherines face

mmediately turns green and she looks like she might puke.

he knew nothing of Miss Viola moving away, nothing at

ll. How could this be? Miss Viola is the closest elder

hat she has had for years, this just cant be true. At that

moment, Katherines phone rings, it is Becky from the

akery. They are swamped like usual on Sunday

fternoons after church and could use a hand.

Um, Miss Viola, Katherine says, I have to get to

he bakery, its an emergency. I will be back to change out

he light bulb as soon as I can.

Katherine walks away quickly, trying to hold back

he tears. She couldnt imagine that Miss Viola had been

lanning on moving away and hadnt even told her. Why

would she move away? She loves it here, this is her home.

he has a whole town of love and support. Am I notelping her enough? Katherine asks herself.


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As soon as Katherine enters the bake shop, Becky

nd sally take notice of the sad, confused look on her face.

Katherine, whispers Becky quietly, whats wrong?

Katherine suddenly shakes her head and goes over the

ounter to ask Mrs. Jones what she will be having today.

What will it be today, Mrs. Jones? asks Katherine.

Lets see, says Mrs. Jones, I think I will have two

hocolate chip muffins and a loaf of banana bread for my

randson Dylan. You know, Katherine, she leans in toKatherine and lowers her voice a little, he just broke it

ff with that hifalutin mess of a woman, Amber Chaney.

hat girl thought just because her daddy owns almost the

whole town that she can go around treating people like

hey are less than human. Not my Dylan! He didnt put upwith that for long, just like I thought he wouldnt, he ended

. Thank you, Jesus! she says with her hands stretched up

o the sky.

Katherine gives Miss Jones a half smile, as shenows her intentions. Everyone does. Agnes Jones has


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wanted her grandson Dylan to take Katherine Bates on a

ate for years. Katherine knows everyone feels sorry for

er for not having any parents around and never having a

oyfriend. Her life is quite fulfilling though, and she

nows exactly what she wants in a man. She will settle forothing less than a good, honest Christian man, and she has

een Dylan Jones at church too few times to believe that

e is worthy of her time.

You know, Katherine, it would be so nice to see you

ating darling, says Mrs. Jones. Didnt you just turn 25?

You arent getting any younger, and all of the fish in the

ea will be swallowed up if you wait too much longer!

ow that brings a huge smile to Katherines face, Mrs.

ones did have the ability to be quite humorous.

Just then, Sally comes running up saying There is a

roblem with the loaves of bread for tomorrow, they

rent rising like they are supposed to and all of them will

ave to be made over right away.

Katherine gives Mrs. Jones a nod and a smile and her

rder, and hurries off to fix tomorrows problem.

Back at Mrs. Brogans, pots and pans are about to fly

s Monica will not take no for an answer. Anything Violaurns down, Monica is right there offering bigger and


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etter. Finally, Violas sweet and patient look turns into

ressed lips and fire in her eyes.

You listen here, Monica, I am sorry that my

randson has sent you all this way to try and convince meo move to Dallas, but that wont happen, my dear. 252

Chelsea Lane, Little Hill, Texas has been my address for

5 years. I would not move out of this house for a skylight,

flower bed, a lousy bridge club, or anything else yo

might be able to offer. The people here are my life. This

ouse holds decades of memories and I will not do away

with them. Now, with all due respect, Mrs. Gavin, I

elieve it is time for you to leave. My blood pressure

eems to be quite elevated and I would like to have a rest.

assume you can see yourself out? Good! Viola replies

without waiting for a response from Monica, quiteritated by this whole charade Bo has put her through.

Please tell the boy I said hello, dear, Viola says as

he reclines in her chair. Monica walks out the door

haking her head, looking quite defeated, as she has justied offering this woman the moon and she just would not

ite. Well, there goes my bonus, Monica mumbles

nder her breath as she slams her car door and speeds out

f the driveway, kicking up dust on her way out.


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Katherine is covered in flour now that she has made

ixteen loaves of bread for tomorrows lunch rush. The

ates BLT is one of the lunch favorites on the menu. Her

ather had concocted the perfect secret sauce for it.

Should we go ahead and lock up? Becky asks

Katherine.

Sure, replies Katherine, its only about ten

minutes to closing anyway, I dont think anyone else will

ome in.

As Becky gets the keys and walks over to the door,

he hears the chimes, as none other than Dylan Jones

omes skipping in the door.

Were closed, says Becky.

Well, the sign still says open, says Dylan.

I was just on my way over to change it, Dylan, what

an I get you?

I just wanted to see if you had any more of that

crumptious banana bread lying around. I already wenthrough the whole loaf my granny got me this morning.


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Pig, says Becky.

Hey, a growing man has to eat, replies Dylan.

I think you are about as grown as you are gonna

et, says Becky, with your body, anyways.

What is that supposed to mean, Becky Ann

Montgomery?

It means you havent changed any since third grade.

Giving wedgies and mooning people will always be your

ctivities of choice, they giggle.

Katherine comes from the back. What can I do yoor, Dylan? We were just about to lock up, she says as

he tosses her towel on the counter.

Oh, just another one of those delish loaves o

anana bread you make.

Im sorry, Dylan, were all sold out. You can come

omorrow around noon and we should have some more

eady then, says Katherine.

Well, how about I walk you home then? says


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Dylan.

Actually, I am walking over to Miss Violas to

hange a light bulb for her. Its just half a block over, I

hink I can manage. Thank you, though, Katherine says,olitely trying to decline his request and get him to be o

is way.

Looking a tad upset, he turns towards the door. I

will be back at noon for that banana bread, Katy, says

Dylan, giving her a cocky grin and wink as he walks out

he door.

That boy is about as big-headed as a Goodyear

limp, says Becky. Katherine nods in agreement as they

ip the sign and shut off the lights.

Monica arrives back at the office to give Bo the bad

ews. Granny aint budging, Mr. Brogan.

Its Mammy and what do you mean? replies Bo.Did you tell her about all of the amenities that she would

ave here? Did you tell her about the advanced medical

eatment that she would receive at Dallas General

Hospital?

Yes, Mr. Brogan, I covered all of the details


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mmensely with her. She was not enthused about you trying

o have her shipped here in Dallas, away from her home.

hat really is a lovely little cottage she has, its very

erene She basically told me to get lost in a sweet

way.

That sure does sound like her. I knew this would be

o easy task. Maybe I can have my mother phone her and

y to change her mind, says Bo.

Or, replies Monica, Im sure that it would mean a

ot more to her if you drove down there yourself to ask her

nstead of sending your secretary, or having your mother

ound her. Thats just my friendly advice, she grins.

Hmm, he thinks to himself, with a slight nod.Cancel all of my plans for the week, Im going. If this is

he only way that I can get her here, then it must be done. I

will only lose a few thousand dollars and possibly a

major client, but its no big deal, he says with a grimace

n his face. Lord give me the strength to handle this oldwoman, she is about the only person I know that is more

tubborn than me, he prays. Little Hill, here I come.

As Katherine walks slowly down Chelsea Lane,


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ervous, thinking about what she is going to say, she sees

Miss Viola come stepping off of her porch.

What are you doing out so late, Miss Viola? asks

Katherine.

Oh, Im just looking at this old place, Katy. Its

eautiful, isnt it?

Yes, its very beautiful, and I dont understand why

ou would want to leave. What would make you want to

eave this peaceful little town and your sweet cottage?

he shoots Miss Viola a desperate look, her eyes watering

s she tries hard not to let the tears loose.

Suddenly, Miss Viola burst out laughing. Im notoing anywhere, you silly girl. What in heavens name

would make you think that?

That woman that was here earlier in the red car,

what she said...

Oh, poppycock on what she said! Bo sent her here to

y to convince me to move up to his new luxurious

partment building, and bribe me with everything he could

hink of, it didnt work. I would never leave this place. Myobby would roll over in his grave if I ever left the home


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e built for me.

Bo hasnt even been here in years, Katherine says.

What makes him think he can just send his secretary

own here to swoop you away? That boy is somethinglse!

You two never did get along very well, replies

Viola. He means well, he really does. But I dont think he

ealizes just how much more than a house and a town this

lace is to me.

Little Hill is my entire life. I was born here. I was

ere before the town square had even completely come up.

want to be here to see this town grow until the end of my

ays. This is my town.

Do you see those light blue shutters, and the rails o

he porch with the rose bushes planted all the way around

nd the woodwork on the swing? Bobby did that all, just

or me. That bench over there in between those two pearees is where we were sitting when I told him I was

regnant with Bos father.

Every moment I am alive I will live in and

ppreciate all of his hard work and dedication to make mehe perfect home to raise my family.


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My every want in a home and in a husband, he

ulfilled, and I will not show any lack of respect to that

man. God rest his soul.

A slight smile creeps upon Katherines lips, So how

bout that light bulb? As they walk into the house

Katherine feels like a ton of bricks has been lifted off o

er chest.

Thank you, Katy bug, says Miss Viola as Katherine

walks up the steps into the house to replace the light bulb.

Its been a long, emotionally trying day and sheould use some relaxation and a good nights sleep. As

Katherine comes up to her driveway, she stands still for a

moment, looking up at her little country style house wit

he hanging planters around the front and the white rocking

hair on the porch, and wonders, Will I ever be able toeave this place?

She gets changed into a night gown, makes a cup o

hamomile tea and grabs her Bible and snuggles into her

lush bed. Reading Proverbs 31, she wonders if she willver find a man to share her life with, to whom she could


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e the kind of wife that she desires to be, and to have hi

uild her the perfect home, just like Bobby had done for

Miss Viola. After all, she is 25 now, and if what Agnes

ones says is true, all of the fish in the sea will be

wallowed up if she waits too much longer.

Bo boards his plane to make the thirty-five-minute

ight to James City. There isnt an airport in Little Hill, so

hat is as close as he will get. He despises long car trips

nd much prefers to view the sights from the top.

Flirting with the cute blonde flight attendant with the

ame Susan written on her name tag, he finds that the loo

n her face is screaming, Take your bottle of water andeave me alone.

Eh, he brushes it off. This is her job, she must get

it on by every lonely traveler that boards the plane, he

hinks to himself.

Bo has a lot more strategizing to do anyway, if he is

oing to get his poor old grandmother to move to Dallas.

No time for flirting with a woman I will most probably

ever lay eyes on again. He closes his eyes and leans bacn his seat to think, only to awaken thirty minutes later to


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usans voice coming over the intercom.

Everyone please buckle your seat belts, we are

reparing to land at James City international airport. The

weather is 78 degrees, partly cloudy with 5 mile per hourwinds. We hope you have enjoyed your flight with us.

lease stay seated until we have come to a complete stop

nd the seat belt sign is off.

As they file off of the plane one by one, Bo tries to

gure out in which direction the rent-a-car center is. As

e steps up to the desk, the clerk, looking as if he would

ather be anywhere else, says, Yes, sir, how can I help

ou?

I need to rent a car, says Bo.

Of course, you need to rent a car, replies the man,

why else would you be standing in front of me? Is there

ny preference that you have?

No, replies Bo, shocked by the rudeness of this

ellow.

Ok, well, sign here, here, here, and here, initial

ere, and how long will you need the car?


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One week, replies Bo as he signs the contract.

The discontent rent-a-car man hands Bo a set of keys

nd tells him the directions out to the rentals lot. Its in

lot 107, says the man.

Bo gives a nod and walks quickly in the direction o

is car. When he gets to slot 107, he sulks his head when

e sees the pink beetle and checks the emblem on his keys.

Volkswagen he says aloud. A pink beetle? This is

diculous, absolutely ridiculous. How dare he give me a

ink beetle! And then he remembers the man asking if he

ad any preferences to which he replied no.

Stomping his foot on the ground, he pops open the

unk and tosses in his luggage, slams it shut, and plopsown into the driver seat. This is the tiniest car ever! he

houts to himself as he moves the seat all the way back as

ar as it will go. Well, here goes nothing, he says as he

tarts it up and pulls out of the parking lot.

Back at the bakery, Katherine is beating Dylan Jones

way with a broomstick after selling him two more loaves

f banana bread to make sure he does not need to comeack for any reason for at least two more days.


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Sheesh, she says to Becky, do you think he will

ver get the hint?

Oh, he probably just thinks you are trying to playard to get. I dont think that boy will understand anything

ther than Dylan, I wouldnt date you even if you buy

very loaf of banana bread I make for an entire year.

They laugh hysterically as Sally comes in late, again,

or her shift.

Im so sorry, girls, Sally says. I am just a mess

oday, my head has been killing me all morning. Im

etting light-headed and dizzy, I dont know what is wrong

with me.

Sally, you should have called, replies Katherine.

Oh Katherine, I know, Im sorry I was just in a rush

o get here

No, no, no, says Katherine, you should have

alled in to say that you wouldnt be here today because

ou are ill. Take the day off to rest. Make a doctors

ppointment to find out whats the matter, hun, it doesntound too good.


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I wouldnt want to leave Becky short-handed here

ll day, I have to bake the muffins and start four more pies,

rder more cream.

Sally, says Katherine in a stern motherly tone, go

ome, lie down, and call Dr. Meyers. Those are bosss

rders.

But what about Becky? asks Sally.

I will stay here and help her until you are well. Its

o problem, I promise. Now go on before you get the

whole lot of us sick, she says with a grin.

Bo makes his way all the way down highway 79 until

e sees nothing but rolling hills, trees and flowers. It is

specially peaceful out here, he thinks to himself as he

rives along the quiet, empty highway. After a few fourway intersections, he sees the large old wooden sig

Welcome to Little Hill The Smallest Town with the

iggest Charm is engraved on it. You can barely read it

rom how old and deteriorated it is.

As he approaches the town, memories from his


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hildhood come racing back to him. There is the school he

went to on the left, with children swinging on the same

wing set he once swung on. Gosh, you would think they

would have upgraded that by now, he says aloud to

imself. Nevertheless, the kids are enjoying it as if it wasstate of the art playground. The merry-go-round is still

here, kids happily spinning and laughing. It brings hi

ack to a more peaceful time in his life when his days

werent filled with endless paperwork and arguments to

e prepared; instead, just enjoying the fresh air and

reedom to play and imagine.

All of the bushes of flowers are the most beautiful

hings he has seen in years, the yellows and pinks and

urples, the bright lush green grass. An overwhelming

ense of happiness comes upon him, along with a widemile across his face.

I know, Bo says aloud, I will bring Mammy her

avorite peach tea and apple turnover from Mr. Bates

ake shop. I bet she hasnt had those in forever. Now stopalking to yourself, Bo.

He pulls up to Bates Bake Shop in his pin

Volkswagen beetle and hops out, only to face the reality of

he car that he has just pulled up in. Shaking his head stilln disbelief at the gall of that man to rent him a pink girly


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ar, he opens the door to the bakery, expecting to see Mr.

ates behind the counter, with his apron on and a towel

hrown over his shoulder. Instead he sees Becky, whom he

asnt seen since high school.

Well Ill be, says Becky, Bo Brogan, whatever

ave we done to have you grace us small town folk wit

our presence as she walks over and gives his hand a

ght squeeze.

Its been way too long, old friend, Bo replies.

ecky and Bo were best friends all through school; Katy,

n the other hand, couldnt stand Bo in all of his

rrogance. They did not get on well at all. It wasnt until

fter Bo had moved to the city to start college that Becky

nd Katy became close.

Katy comes walking out from the kitchen and rounds

he corner to see Bo standing there in his nice Armani suit

nd shiny shoes. He is much bigger than she remembers

rom years ago, his shoulders are much broader and hisyes sparkle just a little. His emerald green eyes go well

with his perfectly tan skin and light brown, well-combed

air and his nice tan suit. He doesnt see her yet, so she

tands gazing at him for a few moments before he realizes

he is there.


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Katy, Bo says, is that you? Boy, you sure have

rown up since the last time I saw you. Wheres your old

ops at? I want one of his famous root-beer floats. Man, I

emember coming here almost every day after football

ractice to have one of those.

Dad passed away a few years ago, Bo, you would

ave known that if you came around more. I dont thin

our grandmother has even seen you in ages. What are yo

ying to pull by getting your mammy to move up to Dallas,

nyway? Dont you have any regard for other peoples

ves?

Im sorry about your father, Katy, I didnt know. No

ne said anything. You know about my wanting Mammy to

move up to Dallas? says Bo.

Of course, I know about that. I was walking her

ome from church when we found that hoity-toity secretary

f yours sitting in her car, waiting to sink her claws into

Miss Viola with all of her offers of luxury this and that.

Just what exactly is your plan, Bo? says Katy.

What do you have to gain by ripping her out of the place

he has known all of her life?

Feeling the tension and knowing the conversatio


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was about to get extremely heated, Becky excuses hersel

o the kitchen.

Im established now, Katy, says Bo. I would like

o take Mammy to live with me in my new building so thatcan give her the best of everything. I am her only

randchild, I need to take care of her.

Your arrogance sure has not gone anywhere over the

ears. You would think it would at least die down a little

with age.

You probably dont know this, Katy states with

assy look, but shes doing just fine taking care o

erself. I help out as much as she needs me to, which isnt

much. She is a pretty tough old lady for her age and sheas all of the support that she needs right here.

You havent even been to visit in years, I dont

now what makes you think that you can just step in now

nd try to take over her life, like you would even knowwhats best for her.

Well, I am on my way over there now to surprise

er, says Bo, all I need is sweet peach tea and an apple

urnover, do you think you could get that for me?


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She prefers bear claws to apple turnovers lately,

Katy says.

How do you know? replies Bo.

I spend a lot of time with her. It will be about five

minutes for your order, I have to make a new batch of tea.

The quicker the better, he says, confused and

ompletely unaware of what he had just walked in to.

Bo had no idea how close his grandmother and Katy

ad grown over the years. He did not know he would have

er wrath to deal with in trying to get his grandmother to

move into the city. This might just be much harder than he

ad originally planned.

Shes beautiful, Bo thinks to himself as he sits

here at the bar, watching her mix the tea and pull out the

astries to warm them up. Just then, Martha Jenkins and

aulette Andrews come through the bake shop doors.

Oh my heavens! Well, if it isnt little Bo Brogan,

ook at you! You must have grown 5 feet since I have seen

ou last. Youve turned into such a handsome young man.

snt he handsome, Katy? Martha says.


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Katy looks in her direction and gives a little shrug o

er shoulders.

Look at those beautiful green eyes; you look just like

our grandfather did when he was your age, saysaulette. Youre going to have to come by the shop and

et me give you a little trim, my treat.

How long are you here for? asks Martha.

About a week, says Bo, I took a week off of wor

nd I thought I would come down here and see how

mammy is doing.

Humph, Katy says under her breath while adding

ce to the tea, knowing his intentions all too well.

Oh well, isnt that wonderful? I know that will make

Viola so happy to see her handsome, successful grandson

ome for a visit, says Paulette. Maybe you and Katy

ould go out to the theater while you are in town, sheowers her voice, and its been ages since shes been on

date, you know.

A huge smile comes across Bos face as Katy

retends she isnt listening.


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Maybe so, Bo says, maybe so.

We will have two iced coffees, Martha says to

Katy, we are in a hurry to get to the flea market before all

f the good stuff is gone.

Katy quickly makes Paulette and Marthas iced

offees and sends them on their way. She hands Bo his bag

f bear claws and three peach iced teas in a carrying

ontainer.

I only asked for one of each, says Bo.

You dont think I am going to let you go over there

y yourself now, do you? For all I know, you could tie her

p and throw her in the trunk of your little pink beetle andwould never see her again.

Besides, she owes me a turkey sandwich, Katy

ays with big fat sassy smirk on her face.

How did you know I drove a pink beetle, anyway?

sks Bo.

Becky told me. It must take a whole bunk of money

o buy a car that fits you so well, she laughs, now letso!


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Bo rolls his eyes and sighs heavily. She sure is a

eauty, but a bossy beauty, he thinks to himself, halfway

racking a grin.

What are you grinning at? says Katy.

Oh, just your annoying persistence, says Bo.

Becky, I will be back in a while. You should be

ble to handle it for now, give me a call if you need

nything.

Aye, captain, says Becky, giggling to herself as she

watches them walk out the door. Those two are a mess,

he says.

So, are we walking or riding in the car? says Bo.

Um, well, says Katy, seeing as it is two blocks,

what do you say we walk? She always gets up when she

ears a car pull into the driveway, so she will see you

efore you get to the door if you drive. This way she

wont see you until she opens the door.


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Good thinking, replies Bo.

Why are you doing this anyway, trying to get her to

move? She is happy here, you know.

I just think she needs to be near better medical care

nd have someone to constantly watch over her, thats

ll, says Bo, withholding the full truth.

As they come around the corner and see Violas

ottage, Bo gets excited in seeing that it is still in suc

reat shape, its not what he was expecting at all. Wow,

ven the gardening is taken care of! he says.

We all make sure she is taken care of, Bo. She may

e your biological grandmother, but she is like arandmother to half of this town too.

As they make their way up the driveway they glance

t each other as if saying here goes. Bo knocks on the

oor and Viola quickly opens it.

I have been expecting you, she says in an excited

ut not too excited tone. Hello, Katy bug, she says,

iving Katy a kiss on the cheek. She gives Bo a hug and

eads the two inside.


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I brought you some peach tea and some apple

urnovers, I mean, bear claws. Katy says you prefer bear

laws now.

Indeed, I do, replies Viola. Get down to it, Bo,why are you here?

I have come to spend some time with you, Mammy,

o make sure that you are ok.

Bologna! snaps Viola. You sent that viper of a

woman, Monica, here to make me all kinds of offers to

move to Dallas. It didnt work and now you are here to try

nd do the same. I might be old but Im not ignorant,

he says with a finger pointed toward him.

Its not like that, Mammy, its just that I dont like

he fact that you dont have the adequate care that you need

vailable to you here in Little Hill. Dallas has much more

ppropriate medical facilities, for someone in your

ondition.

What condition? I am as good as gold. Sure, I had a

ttle old heart attack, it was minor and I have recovered

well. It is nothing for you to get all riled up about and have

me move across the state. Good grief, boy.


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Mammy, Bo tries to argue.

Bo, says Katy, I am over here just about every day

s to where you havent been here in years. I know just

ow well Miss Viola gets around and takes care oerself, and you dont. Youre wrong about what you think

ou know, sir.

Sir? says Bo.

Yes, sir, replies Katy. You are all high and

mighty, arent you? Bo Brogan, attorney-at-law, most

rominent lawyer in Dallas, owner of The Squire,

whoopdi doo! That doesnt mean anything to us dow

ere. So you can take your condescending tone and go

ack to where you came from.

Oh gosh, Im sorry, Miss Viola, I apologize for my

ostility. I just couldnt stand the thought of you leaving the

ther day when that lady showed up and started talking

bout you moving. I thought you had made plans to leavewithout telling me and I was... heartbroken.

Katy, I can see that you have grown close to

Mammy, but she is MY grandmother.

Halloo, Im still in the room over here, young


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whippersnappers. Lets not talk about me as if Im not. I

he both of you want to take care of something for me, why

ont you both go to the grocery store for me? I have a

ong list on the fridge and I have a stew going on the stove,

need a few more things for, oh Lordy, I must be senile, ifforgot the things I needed for my stew! Ha! She slaps

er knee, Heres the list and off you go!

Im sure Katy can manage this by herself, Mammy.

Why dont I stay here and we can catch up?

Oh, Im caught up, says Viola. Now get on to the

tore and get me the things on that list so we can have a

roper meal for your first night in town.

Katy and Bo both let out a little sigh and grumblend give Viola a fake grin before heading out the door.

Well, her sense of humor is certainly still intact,

ays Bo.

Everything is still intact, replies Katy. Shes the

trongest woman I know.

They get to Jims Grocery and start searching out the

hings on the list.


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Yellow onions, says Bo, there are different colors

f onions?

Yes, says Katy, red, yellow, white, purple

As they round the corner, none other than Martha

enkins stands there whispering to her husband, obviously

aving already seen the two of them.

Hi, Miss Martha, say Katy and Bo simultaneously,

with a little eye roll.

Well, look at you two in here, shopping from a list

ust like an old married couple, she says in the sweetest

most Southern belle accent.

They laugh it off, and explain that Miss Viola has sent

hem on a mission together to get the rest of the things that

he needs for supper.

Oh I see, replies Martha. Shes just trying to keepou in good company while youre here, Bo. With yoo-

oos like Amber Chaney wandering around this town

ingle, its safer this way for sure, she says.

Oh Lord, please forgive me, she says aloud, thatwas judgmental, but some things are just the truth.


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How was the flea mall? asks Katy.

Oh you know how it always is, those early birds get

n there and grab until there is nothing left. I guess I willave to try next week, replies Martha.

Nice seeing you, Martha, we are off to find baby

arrots, says Bo.

On the other side of the deli! Martha shouts as she

walks in the other direction, once again whispering to her

usband.

Katy and Bo cant help but giggle about how obvious

Miss Martha is, with her crude remark about AmberChaney.

So whats the deal with Amber? Bo asks.

She has the same attitude she had in high school,eplies Katy.

Ah, says Bo, she still thinks shes all that and a

ag of chips, huh?

You could say that, Katy replies, now that she and


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Dylan Jones broke things off, shes on the prowl again,

nd as soon as she sees you, she will certainly try to catc

our attention.

Girls like that didnt catch my attention in higchool and wont catch my attention now, you know. I like

he sweet, girl-next-door type.

Right, Katy replies.

Arriving back at Mammys house, Bo puts the

roceries away as Katy helps her chop the veggies. With

he stew smelling delicious in the pot, Bo thinks to

imself, maybe Mammy can still cook, but what if she

was to leave the stove top on next to a towel?

Visions of the house going up in smoke run through

is mind, his worry about his grandmother growing

tronger as he is there in her home seeing all of the

ossible dangers.

The front steps are too steep, he thinks, and if she

was to slip in the tub. He thinks about stating all of these

acts now but figures that he should probably keep the

eace while it lasts. Dinner will be a good time to voice

my concerns, he says to himself with a slight nod.


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Wow, Mammy, this stew is delicious, just like I

emember it, and the cornbread, I have been missing out.

Mammy, I was just thinking while I was lookinground here, those front steps you have are awfully steep.

Dont you ever worry that you might fall down them?

Well, no. No, I dont, replies Viola. Do you

worry that you might fall down them, son? she replies.

Katy and Bo both have a snicker.

No, Mammy, it is just that I worry about you, that is

ll. What about your tub? I have noticed that you dont

ave a grab bar on the side to hang on to. Have you ever

hought of having one installed?

No, replies Viola. But I reckon that I might if I

was ever having a problem with balance, she says, taking

bite out of her cornbread.

Bo knows that he is going to get nowhere with this

onversation. So I presume that I would have to drag yo

ut of here kicking and screaming to get you to come to

Dallas with me?

Youre right on the money, replies Viola, with a


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uge smile. Now you understand, Im not leaving.

Well then, Bo replies, Grandmother, I have no

ther choice than to hire a home nurse to stay with yo

uring the day, and there is no way that you are going toalk me out of that. And I would really like for you to at

east come and look at the apartment that I have set aside

or you.

I dont need a nurse, dear, she brushes him off,

and I am not going to travel to the city to look at a

partment that I will never set foot in again. If you came

ere to bark demands at me, Im afraid you are going to get

owhere. Now if you came for a nice visit, you are

welcome, and we will make a nice time of it, but I will not

et you boss me around like I am a child. If you want tooss someone around, I suggest you go back to work or

ave a child of your own. Its about time for you to be

ettling down and making a family of your own now. Dont

worry about me, if I find myself needing help from you, I

will ask. Until then, I dont.

I think its time for me to go, says Katy, as she

rabs her dishes off of the table and goes over to the sin

o rinse them and put them in the dishwasher. Katy grabs

er bag and gives Viola a kiss on the cheek and swiftlywalks out the door.


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Now look what you have done, you have run off my

Katy bug.

Bo, realizing his harshness that would make Katywant to leave, gets up and runs out the door to try to catc

er and apologize. He finds her sitting on the bench on the

ide of the house beside the rose bushes.

Im sorry, Katy, I didnt mean to upset you or make

ou feel like you had to leave. Its just that shes so

tubborn.

She is not the one that is stubborn, Bo, its you. Do

ou even know why she wants to stay in this place so bad?

is because this is the town that she has lived in for herntire life, this is the house that your grandfather built for

er with his bare hands. Just for her, he made every detail

f this house exactly as she wanted it, God rest his soul.

his is the bench that they were sitting on when she told

im she was pregnant with your father. Havent you everhought about what the real reasons behind her wanting to

tay here are? This is her home, the people in this tow

ave known her most, if not all, of their lives. They love

er and she loves them.

This is her life, church on Sunday morning, grocery


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n Monday morning, Marthas salon on Tuesdays for her

weekly hair appointment. She likes to take a walk around

he town square on Wednesdays to see what is new in all

f the windows of the little shops.

Thursday is Bible study night. I bet you had

o idea of what her life even consists of, yet you just

woop in here and try to start making decisions for her.

Wow, no, you are right. I had no idea about my

randmothers life at all. I can see that this upsets you, but

am worried about her. She is getting on up there in age

nd I just want to help her the best way that I know how. I

m going to contact a home health agency and get someone

o come out here and be with her during the day. Im sorry

ut I feel like that is the least that I can do.

Katy stands up and says to Bo, If thats what you

want, there is nothing I can do to stop you. Im going home

ow. This has been a very long and eventful day for me,

nd Im wiped out. She walks down the side walk.

Good night, Katy, says Bo, it was good to see

ou.

She turns and waves. You will be seeing a lot moref me, she thinks to herself.


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, Mammy. Think of it as more of a companion who can

elp you out every now and then in the areas that you need

. It will make me feel much better after I leave, knowing

here is someone who comes in regularly to check on yo

nd help you with things.

I dont know if it has occurred to you, boy, but I do

ave friends in this town, ones that I dont have to pay to

ome spend time with me, she snaps.

The next morning at eight o clock sharp there is a

nock at the door, and how very surprised Bo is to see

Katy Bates standing there in pink scrubs and white tennis

hoes with her hair pulled back in a ponytail, holding a

lip board, blood pressure cuff and stethoscope.

Umm, Katy, what...?

Im the nurse aide that was assigned to Mrs.

rogan.

As baffled as he is, he steps back and lets her throug

he door.

Good morning, Miss Viola. Ill be your new nurse

ide from now on. Will you please roll up your sleeve so Ian take your vitals?


48/128

Sure thing, Viola says with a huge I got you grin

n her face.

Wait a minute, I thought you worked at the bakery?here is no way you run a bakery and work for a home

ealth company, says Bo. The joke is over, Katy, what

ave you done? Did you cancel the arrangements that I

made yesterday? You dont have the authority to do that.

his is now a legal issue between Southeast Home Healt

nd the law offices of Bryant-Stratton and Brogan. I a

alling Monica this instant to have her start the case. I

annot believe the people of this town would blatantly

reak the law just because a friend asks them to, this is

bsurd.

This is no joke, Bo, Katy says, snickering at the

way he is panicking over the possibility of a broken law.

He looks as if his head is about to explode and she ca

lmost see the smoke coming out of his ears.

If you would have asked me anything about my life

esterday instead of just rambling on about your work and

ll of your accomplishments, you would have known that I

o not run the bakery, Becky does. I only fill in on the

weekends and when she or Sally call in sick. I work foroutheast Home Health on Mondays, Wednesdays, and


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ood for my blood pressure.

Actually, no, says Katy, it is not. She looks at the

ial on the blood pressure cuff and rips that sleeve off o

er arm quickly.

Are you feeling dizzy, Miss Viola?

A little, Viola replies.

Ok, Miss Viola, what I need you to do is to take

ome deep breaths in through the nose and out through the

mouth. Lean back in your chair. If you still feel dizzy after

hat, I will need you to lean forward and put your head i

etween your legs.

What is going on? exclaims Bo.

Her blood pressure is dangerously high, we need to

ead over to Southeast General Hospital right away and

ave them take a look at her. This is a condition that shemight need medication for.

Bo, concerned for his grandmothers health, races to

he garage and pulls out his pink little beetle and backs it

p to the front door where Katy is helping Miss Violaown the steps. Steady and slow, Katy tells her as they


51/128

ake each step.

As they get into the car, Katy tells Bo to calm down

nd take some deep breaths so that his driving wont be

rratic, which would make Violas blood pressure spikegain.

Drive slow and cautious, Bo, Katy says. There is

o need to rush, this is not a life or death situation,

lthough it will be if we cant manage to get to the hospital

n one piece.

When they pull up to the front doors of the Emergency

Room, Bo leaps out of the drivers seat and runs inside

nd grabs a wheelchair and brings it out for his

randmother to be wheeled in.

Easy does it, Bo says to Viola as she goes to get in

he wheel chair.

Boregaurd Amus Brogan, you stop telling me whato do!

Bo looks at his grandmother without saying a word as

Katy pushes the wheelchair through the emergency roo

oors and goes to fill out the paper work. As Bo isulling the car around to a parking spot, he sits for a


52/128

while, reflecting on all of the things that he has said to his

randmother since he arrived in Little Hill. Just as Katy

ad said, all he did was talk about himself and his job. He

adnt once asked his grandmother about how her life was

oing or any activities that she is involved in. He figuredhat she is 89 and she must sit in a recliner all day and

watch reruns of I Love Lucy and Wheel of Fortune. If it

wasnt for Katy, he would not even know how active and

apable his grandmother really is to take care of herself.

What if all of his orders and barging in and trying to

earrange her life are what has brought on this high blood

ressure? What if it would have been another heart attac

r stroke instead? It would be my fault entirely, he

hinks to himself. Getting out of the car and hesitantly

walking up the path to the emergency room doors, hewonders if he should even go in, hasnt he done enoug

amage already? He might as well just leave town tonight

nd cancel the home health agency, and leave her as she

was. But no, he couldnt. Not now, not now that he had put

er in this condition. He had to at least know that she wasoing to recover and be alright.

Bo walks in the main doors of Southeast General, to

o find some coffee and snacks for Katy and Viola. As he

nally finds his way back to the emergency department, heees Katy sitting there by herself and walks up to her and


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What do you mean? he asks.

You need to feed your soul, says Katy. After all o

he worldly things that you have accomplished and all ohe not so nice things that you have had to do to get there,

ou need to put some back of what has been taken away.

Do you understand? Do something for charity, make a

onation, volunteer. Take a minute to relax and go to the

each. Go fishing, take a yoga class, get back in touch wit

ou, instead of trying to keep up with the world. Come to

hurch on Sunday and hear some of Gods word. You

now what they say, Seven days without Christ makes

ne weak.

Ha ha, yeah, I have heard that a few times before imy life. From mammy, of course, says Bo.

Im serious, Bo, you need to come back down to

eality. Life isnt all about winning the next big case and

making the next great investment. Its about helping othersnd doing the right thing, enjoying the things that God gave

s.

Just then, a doctor walks into the waiting room and

Katy and Bo jump out of their chairs.


56/128

Mr. and Mrs. Brogan, your grandmother is going to

e just fine. Bo and Katy look at each other oddly, and

Katy tells the doctor that she is just a friend.

She must be a pretty special lady to have such aoung, pretty and caring friend like you, says Dr.

Mackey. Katy, obviously seeing how unprofessional he is

eing, gives a slight grin so as not to be rude and looks at

he ground.

Mr. Brogan, your grandmothers vitals are all back

o normal now. I presume that the high blood pressure

purt was stress-related. She needs to take it easy for a

while. We are going to keep an eye on her overnight and

hen she can go home in the morning, with strict orders to

est and keep stress to a minimum.

Yes, sir, replies Bo, may we see her now?

Of course, says Dr. Mackey, room 208, third door

n your left.

Katy and Bo reach door 208 and Katy can see the

adness in Bos eyes, knowing that he knows he is the

eason that she is here.

Hi Mammy, he says in a light sweet tone as he


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nters the room.

Hey, sugar, she replies, hello, my Katy bug.

I am fine, I feel just great. I dont know why theywant me to stay the night here. I guess I will need the two

f you to run home and pack me a bag. I will need a night

own, clean undies, my rollers, my toothbrush, a tube o

pstick and my slippers. Oh and an outfit for tomorrow.

Katy, you make sure you are the one that picks that out, ok,

ear?

Yes, maam, she says with a smile, happy to see

hat Viola is feeling well enough to be her humorous self.

Well, off you go. If I dont get my hair in thoseollers soon, Im going to look like a poorly groomed

oodle in the morning, and that cannot happen. Have yo

een that, Dr. Mackey? she says while fluffing her curls.

As Katy and Bo walk out to get in the car, she stopsim in his tracks, steps in front of him, grabs him by his

rms and says to him this is not your fault, and gives hi

delicate hug. At that moment, Bo Brogan, attorney-at-law

orgot about the stubborn little pain that has been in the

way of him getting what he wants since he got back toown, and saw her as the beautiful, genuine, kind-hearted


58/128

erson that she is. As he gave her a strong squeeze back

nd held on for just long enough with a bowed head, she

ealized just how sorry he was and how unintentional this

ccident had been. All he wants is his grandmother to

ome live close to him. For that second, she forgot abouthe arrogant, big city, cut-throat attorney-at-law and saw

im as a sensitive, loving, lost soul that needed someone

o help him. How lucky he is that helping people is one o

er favorite things to do. The fact that he is the best-

ooking guy she has seen around this town in a long while,

s just a plus.

As they arrive at the house, Bo tells Katy, Alright,

ou get the undies, rollers and outfit, I will get everything

lse, kay? She smiles and they walk up the steps feeling a

ttle differently about each other, like they had connectedn some way.

They gather all of Violas things and fold them

icely and put them in a suitcase.

Is that everything? asks Bo.

Yup, replies Katy. Let me just grab her one of her

avorite books. She didnt ask for it but I know she will

want it.


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She walks over to the bookshelf in the living roo

nd grabs Say Good Night Gracie from the shelf. Eve

hough Viola has read the book many times since she was

kid, it is still her favorite.

When they arrive at the hospital, they come up to

oom 208 and hear Viola telling the nurse that she doesnt

eed to fuss with her and to go and help someone who

eally needs it. Typical Viola.

Knock, knock, Katy says as they enter the room.

Oh there yall are. For heavens sake, what took so

ong? I told you I need to get my hair rolled in a hurry!

We got back as fast as we could, Mammy. Katyven grabbed you your favorite book.

Oh, thank you, Katy. You know I will read it, there

nothing else to do in here, I tell ya.

I sure am going to miss you at the house tonight,

Mammy, its going to be lonely, says Bo.

Im sure Katy wouldnt mind keeping you company

ow, would you, Katy bug? There are extra blankets andillows in the hall closet, why dont yall have a little


60/128

lumber party and talk about when you were kids? Try and

gure out where you two went astray, Im sure it was

when Bo made the varsity football team when he was a

ophomore and he thought he was just too cool for school

nd traded his sweet temperament for the cocky jock kind.Well, Im just guessing, but why dont you two go figure it

ut? Yall are adults now and need to put the past behind

ou and get along.

Dont you just have it all figured out, says Bo,

olling his eyes, Im going to pull the car around.

Bo kisses his grandmother on the cheek and tucks her

ed sheets in around her. Seeing Bo care for his

randmother like this makes Katys heart go pitter-patter.

You know they always say that how a man treats hismother or grandmother is how he is likely to treat his wife,

nd Katy is long overdue for some caring attention from a

man.

As Bo walks out of the room and gives his mammy attle wave, Viola calls Katy over to her bedside. Now,

ou make sure to take the couch, and make him sleep in the

ecliner, she says.

You know, Miss Viola, I dont think I have everoticed it this much before, but he sure is handsome! Katy


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xclaims.

He sure is, replies Viola, but dont you dare tell

im, his heads too big already.

They snicker, and Katy gives Viola a kiss on the

heek and tells her she will bring her some goodies fro

he bakery in the morning.

Oh no, honey, I have some bread rising on the

ounter that I have been working on for three days now. I

will need you to put it in the oven tonight, and then if yo

wouldnt mind, dear, make me some French toast in the

morning and bring it here. This hospital food is just

orrible. Of course, that is after you and Bo have had

ome, she smiles and bats her eyes at them both. Shenows she is being a pain in the rear and is having way to

much fun in doing so.

I hate to be a pain, says Viola, but if they insist

hat I stay in this place, the least I can do is eat some goodood. I have been waiting on that French toast all week.

Of course, we would be delighted to finish the

read and bring you some good home-cooked breakfast,

ont you worry, says Katy.


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As Katy walks out to the car, she ponders the pitter-

atter feeling that she felt in the room earlier. Was it a

uke? Was it real? Could she possibly have some sort of

eeling for Bo Brogan, the arrogant, egotistical,

materialistic man she hasnt seen in years? His attitudeothered her to death in high school, but like Viola said,

ow that they are adults, they need to put the past behind

hem. Maybe there is something to him that she is missing,

omething deeper.

Bo has pulled his little pink Volkswagen beetle

round to the front of the hospital entrance to pick up Katy.

he cannot help but giggle as she walks out the sliding

oors. His head nearly touches the top of the roof and his

eat is pushed all the way back. She opens the door to get

n.

Are you sure you wouldnt be more comfortable if I

rove? she asks giggling.

Hey, I am finally getting the hang of this. I think Iwill be ok. What do you say we stop by Andersons Diner?

hats the only place I know of that is open at this hour,

nd I am starving.

She gives him a weird look.


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It is still Andersons Diner, isnt it?

Yes, Katy replies, I am just surprised that you

emember, thats all.

And Florence, does she still run the place? I always

oved that old gal.

Oh well, there comes some of your Southern accent,

nd your spunk too. What, did you do have too many cups

f coffee?

No, replies Bo, I have just been thinking a lot

bout what you said. I do need to lighten up, take a break,

oof off go to church. I need to be revived. I feel like

verything that I have worked so hard for for all of theseears has just sucked me dry, you know what I mean?

Coming down here was the best decision I have ever

made, I feel free. I feel like I dont have to look at my

watch every five minutes to see if I am going to be late for

meeting. I can just be me. I kind of feel like a kid again.Do they still have the super mega ice cream pile? Lets

ave that for dinner!

Bo, I dont think we can eat sixteen scoops o

ifferent types of ice cream without puking all over eacther, she says, laughing hysterically at the inner child


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hat has finally shown himself.

Seeing Bo this way and hearing him talk like this

rings something out in her that has been missing for a

ong time as well - HER inner child. All she does is work,olunteer, go to church, sleep, eat, and repeat. She never

eally does anything for herself. She cant remember the

ast time she did anything spontaneous, or adventurous.

here goes her heart again, pitter-patter. Oh goodness,

make it stop! she thinks to herself.

Love scares Katy, pain scares Katy, and the thought

f falling in love with Bo Brogan could most definitely

ring some pain. God, please, if these feelings are real,

nd this is what Your will is for me, please let me know,

he prays.

As they get out of the car and see all the lights on i

he diner and it is halfway filled up with people, she thinks

o herself, Are people always out eating this late? Is this

ormal? Oh dear, I have the bedtime of an eight-year-old.he laughs at herself and ever so naturally grabs Bos

and and skips into the diner. They sit down and order the

uper mega ice cream pile.

Heres to supper! says Bo as they dig in.


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People are looking and whispering about them but

hey are both so engrossed in conversation about their

hildhood that they have not a care in the world about

what people are thinking. They are enjoying each others

ompany and that is all that matters to them.

As they finish not even half of the super mega ice

ream pile, they sit back and put their hands on their

ellies.

This was a great idea, says Katy.

Really? asks Bo. I wouldnt have thought you for

girl that would go for an ice-cream supper this late at

ight.

Me either, she replies. They flag the waitress over

nd pay their bill, leaving a very gracious tip. Bo is

lready coming up with things to do next. Hey, whadaya

ay we take a drive down to Rock Hill Creek? he says.

Katy ponders for a second, letting her uptight side

ake over for just a second, and then says What the heck,

we are already out, lets make a night of it.

As they are driving, reminiscing about old footballames and how horrible the high school dances always


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were, and how snotty the popular crowd was, they pull

p to Rock Hill Creek.

Hey, Bo, I hadnt thought about it on the way over

ere, but, what are we going to do out here? Its themiddle of the night, we dont even have swimsuits, Katy

ays.

Im sure there is something to do. Lets go skip

ocks or something, contest? I bet I will beat you.

Oh no, you wont, she says, jumping out of the car

nd scooping up pebbles along the way.

They race to the water and begin to skip the pebbles

ver the water to see who can get theirs to go furthest.

Slow down, killer, you are losing form, says Bo.

You arent going to beat me like that. This is what I did

o ease the stress when I was younger. I would come down

ere, pick up a handful of pebbles and stand here forever,eeing how far I could get them to go, thinking, calming

own.

What did you have to calm down about? Your life

eemed pretty peachy to me, Katy says.


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So, when I was in high school, my dad pushed me to

et the best grades and play the best football games and

ractice. Even after practice I had to practice. I had to go

ome to my drunken mother every night who was a violentrunk at that; she would yell and throw things for no

eason. I had to put on a smile and the right attitude every

morning for school like everything was ok. At the end o

my sophomore year, I pulled up at my dads office to

urprise him with lunch and saw him getting into his car

with another woman. That womans name is Cindy. It turns

ut that my mom had known about the affair for two years,

which, ironically, is the same amount of time that she had

made binge drinking her hobby. The day my dad told my

mother he was finally divorcing her for Cindy and never

oming home, she tried to kill herself and wasnstitutionalized for a very long time. In that time, I stayed

with my mammy. I was forbidden to tell my grandmother

bout the affair, just that they were getting a divorce

ecause of my mothers drinking and that I needed to stay

with her for a while. During the time that my dad had meocked up at Mammys, it turns out that he had whisked his

mistress off to Costa Rica for a lovers getaway. I cannot

elieve that he did that to my mom. What a scumbag! That

also why I dont talk to him anymore. I havent talked to

im in years, since he gave me my college money. I toldim I never wanted to see him again. He doesnt


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nderstand that not only did he ruin my moms life, but he

lso made it really hard on me too. Now my mom lives i

ustin with her boyfriend, and dad and Cindy moved to

.A. because there were better job opportunities for the

oth of them there, and thats that.

I am so sorry, Bo, I had absolutely no idea. I cant

ven begin to imagine going through all of that, and having

o hide it, says Katy.

You are the only one I have ever told that to, says

o.

Is there anything I can do? asks Katy.

Are you kidding me? That was years ago. There isot a thing anyone can do about it now, thats dead and

one. Now, are we keeping score here? Because I think I

m winning. He cracks her a small smile, hoping to

ghten the mood, seeing as how he just dropped a ton o

motional wreckage he has gone through on her.

You know, Bo, a lot of things can be lifted off of

ou if you just give it all up to God. Put all of your

urdens at His feet and He will cast them away. I feel so

much better after I pray and ask God for help when I am infortunate situations, and automatically, I feel lighter. I


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now He has it all under control. Then though, there are

he times that I try to punish myself and stay miserable and

wallow in my pain, because somehow, at the time,

wallowing and crying and feeling sorry for myself see

etter than getting over it and moving on. Sometimes youst cant get over the pity party.

Are you saying I am having a pity party? Bo

xclaims in an elevated tone.

No, for goodness sake, no. Im talking about

veryone in general, me mostly. I know I may seem like I

ave it all together and all figured out, but there are times

hat I just wish my dad was back. Im grown and I have a

fe of my own, and I am completely capable of handling

my own, but sometimes, no matter how many people areround me, I just feel alone. The strongest connection that I

ave ever had with anyone is gone, and then you come to

own trying to take away the one person that I have grow

he closest to since his death.

Her eyes start to tear up. She certainly did not mea

o let all of that out, but the words came out of her mout

ke a raging sea being held back by a weak dam that has

een slowly breaking for a long time.

Im sorry, Katy. I guess all I was really caring about


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was myself. I never thought about Mammys emotions, or

our emotions, or what either of you want for yourselves, I

ave only been thinking about my own life. The truth is, I

eel lonely too, and I dont know how to fix it. Is this just

omething everyone goes through in their lives or are weaving something like a quarter life crisis? he laughs a

ttle.

I think most people go through times in their lives

when they feel lonely once they have left the nest, so to

peak, Katy replies. I am lucky though, I have God o

my side. I have your amazing grandmother, my dads diner

o keep his memory alive, and here I am sitting here,

omplaining that Im lonely, how lousy is that? I have so

much to be thankful for.

Hey Katy, says Bo, would you like to go out on a

ate with me?

Umm, well, I like a real date? With me? Sure,

unday morning nine a.m. she says.

Oh, so a breakfast date?

Noooo, silly, a church date. I dont date men who

ont go to church, so if you show up for church, we cao on a date afterward, how about that?


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Ok, replies Bo, stunned by her manipulation to get

im to go to church. It wont be that bad, he thinks to

imself, it will please Mammy and I get to see her twice

n one day. Not like I havent seen her almost every dayince I got to town but, she is nice to look at, so sweet and

nnocent-looking, something you dont see around Dallas

very day, and with a real personality, not trying to be

omeone she is not, and I like that, he thinks.

As they walk off to get back in the car and make the

rive home they are much more quiet this time than on the

way out to Rock Creek. The feeling that Katy had earlier

ad just multiplied by one million, and now she had the

utterflies in her belly and couldnt stop staring at him out

f the corner of her eye during the whole ride back toown. Bo was feeling the exact same way. Not knowing

what to say or do, he just turned on the radio and drove i

ilence the whole way, with smiles across both of their

aces, as they both know that the feelings they have bee

aving are real, and mutual. This may be the beginning oomething great.

When they pull up to Violas house and get out of the

ar, they are both so tired that they can barely walk up the

teps.


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What time is it, Katy? asks Bo.

Its 1:45. Oh my gosh, I dont think I have been up

his late since I was at least fifteen!

It is not like you need the beauty sleep, replies Bo,

which makes Katy blush and get that pitter-patter feeling i

er heart all over again.

Grab me a blanket and a pillow, would you? Katy

sks Bo.

When he walks back into the living room from dow

he hall, he finds Katy already laying down on the couch,

ound asleep. He gently picks her head up and slips the

illow under it, and takes her shoes off ever so gently andovers her up. He brushes her hair out of her face and

ives her a light kiss on the cheek and smiles. Yes, coming

ack to little hill might have just been exactly what he

eeded. He plops down in his grandfathers old recliner.

Many nights he watched his grandfather fall asleep therewatching football games and old westerns. It was still the

most comfortable chair he had ever sat in. He reclines

ack, puts his hands behind his head, and drifts off to

leep.

The next morning, as they come up to Violas hospital


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oom expecting her to be lying in bed, they find her

tanding up with her little pink purse on her shoulder, pink

iamond-shaped earrings that perfectly match her pin

weater, a floral skirt and a pink watch that matches

erfectly, her hair is nice and curly.

What are you doing, Mammy? Bo exclaims. You

avent been discharged yet, have you?

Oh yes, I have, replies Viola, it just took a little

weet talking to the doctor, thats all. I told him I would

make sure to relax and keep my feet up.

Well, you look lovely, Mammy, says Bo.

Oh I know, son. Now let us head on over to thatttle boutique on western called Fleur de Chic. There is

othing more relaxing than, what do you youngins call it

hese days, a little retail therapy. And I noticed yall

idnt bring me the French toast that I asked for, but thats

k, we will stop out for breakfast too. I am feeling greatoday.

Ok, Mammy, just let me go talk to your doctor once

nd make sure we are all good to go, says Bo.

So, what did you kids get into last night that was so


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ntertaining you forgot to make an old ladys breakfast?

he asks Katy, laughing.

Im so sorry, Miss Viola, we did bake the bread

efore we fell asleep but we we actually had a lot oun last night. We went out to Rock Hill Creek and

kipped pebbles and talked a lot after going by Andersons

Diner and stuffing ourselves with a super mega pile.

Well, indeed, it does sound like you two have had

un, just like I suspected.

You know, Miss Viola, your grandson is quite

andsome, and can be such a gentleman.

Oh I know, hunny, but dont you dare tell him, hisead doesnt need to get any bigger. I am sure I have told

ou this before.

They both smirk as Bo comes back into the room and

rabs Violas bags for her and whispers in Katys ear,she voluntarily stayed overnight to be monitored, the

octor says she could have gone home last night.

Katy smiles, knowing exactly what Viola is up to,

nd they walk towards those big double doors for theirmorning out on the town. This should be an interesting


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ay, Katy thinks to herself, darting a look in Bos

irection to see if he is looking as utterly happy as she is.

As they come up to Marthas salon, Viola says to

Katy and Bo, Im going in to get a manicure, you two rulong and grab a cup of Joe or something. I should be done

n about an hour.

Mammy, you know you are supposed to be

elaxing, says Bo.

This is a womans way of relaxing, darling.

Katy and Bo just smile and shake their heads as they

walk out of the door and across the street over to the

offee shop. They get their cups of coffee coincidentallymade the same way - black with two sugars - and sit

own.

You know what she is up to, dont you? Katy asks

o.

No, what do you mean?

She wants us to spend time together, Katy replies.

Well, if that is her agenda, I have no complaints,


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ays Bo, with a crooked grin, and a sentimental gaze into

er pale blue eyes. Sitting there sipping their cups o

offee, Bo slips his hand out on the table hoping that Katy

will grab hold of it, and she does.

You know, Bo, I have been thinking, and I would

eally like you to come to church with us tomorrow.

Oh Katy, I dont know. I havent been to that place

n years, I would just feel awkward, ya know?

No, replies Katy, you have no reason to feel

wkward.

I know you are feeling some pain about your past,

nd maybe even some pain about the present. Your futureidnt exactly turn out like you had hoped for, did it? she

sks.

No, I thought I would be married by now and just

ave a more fulfilling life. I feel like all I do is work andleep when I am back in Dallas.

So pray about it, Katy says, there is no one that

oves you and wants to help you more than God. All you

ave to do is give it to Him and He will fix it. Dont holdn to it, its like an anchor weighing you down. Trust me, I


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ave been there before. When my mom passed away, then

my dad passed away, I had a really hard time, but I just put

all in Gods hands and I couldnt be happier, other than

he fact that all the ladies in town whisper about me whe

hey see me because Im twenty-five and still unmarried,with no boyfriend, but I am focused on God and doing the

hings He has called me to do.

So are you saying you dont want a boyfriend? Bo

sks.

No, Im not. I do, I just hadnt met the right one yet.

Hadnt, says Bo, so are you saying you have met

he right one?

Maybe, she replies.

Well, Katy, then I feel the need to ask you this

uestion before that other guy comes and swoops you of

f your feet. Will you be mine?

Katy turns beet red even though she had bee

xpecting this. However, she wasnt expecting it to come

ut like a second grade valentine card.

Of course, I would love to be. There is only one


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tipulation.

Whats that? says Bo.

Come back to church, she says.

Thats it? replies Bo. Just come back to church?

Come back to church and get right with God again. I

old you, I cannot be in a relationship with someone who

oes not have a relationship with Christ.

Done, he says. Now, lets go see if Mammy is

one with her nails and tell her the good news.

They walk back slowly to Marthas salon,

and in hand. They both feel like they are in a fairy tale,

walking on clouds. As they enter the salon, they see that

Viola is sitting in a chair reading a magazine.

Mammy, I thought you said it would take an hour to

et your nails done? We are fifteen minutes early and you

re already done. Katy and Viola laugh.

You dont have to send us off anymore, Miss Viola,


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we are officially a couple. They raise their paired hands

p in the air and Viola clasps her hands over her mouth

nd gasps, Oh arent you two so sweet? Well, how did

his happen, and I knew nothing of it.

Sure, Mammy, replies Bo. I think its time for us

o go home now and put your feet up like the doctor

ecommended, he says. Katy and I will make dinner.

He looks at her and grins.

Oh good, and this time I dont have to send you of

o the grocery for a list of things I already have, she

iggles and slaps her knee.

What would you like for dinner tonight, Miss

Viola? Katy asks as they walk up the front steps.

What are you good at? she replies.

Spaghetti.

Then spaghetti, it is, says Viola.

They help Viola get all of her belongings that she

ad with her at the hospital put away and make her sit

own in the recliner with a pillow under her feet and bringer a cup of tea.


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Did you two stick me in this chair so I wouldnt be

othering you in the kitchen? You know I cant get up from

ere leaned all the way back like this.

Nooo, Mammy, we are just trying to follow the

octors orders. They made you stay overnight for

valuation, this is serious, says Bo.

Ok, ok, replies Viola, I fibbed a little, I am sorry.

just wanted you two to get to spend some alone time

ogether and have some fun. You both needed to relax a

ttle, sit back and smell the honeysuckle.

You know lying is a sin, Mammy.

Boy, I asked forgiveness before I even pulled that

ne out of my hat, Viola snaps back. It was for the

reater good, anyway. Now bring me the clicker, I think

s time for Wheel of Fortune and I feel a headache

oming on.

He smiles and walks over to his grandmother and

ands her the clicker, bends down and gives her a kiss on

he cheek, Thank you, Mammy, he whispers in her ear.

Dont mention it, stud, she laughs and pats him o


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he hand. Now get in there and ask her if she needs some

elp.

Yes, maam, he says enthusiastically as he does a

ttle jig on his way to the kitchen. He hasnt felt this freen a long time. I guess this is what being in love feels

ke, he thinks to himself.

He stands in the doorway of the kitchen staring at her

rom behind for a moment thinking that she must be the

most beautiful, caring, loving woman he has ever met. Not

very day do you come across a woman that has the

elflessness to take care of someone on her day off and

make her sole purpose in life to help others and please

God.

Katy, what can I help with?

You dont have to help, silly, just sit down and keep

me company.

So... says Katy, are you planning on coming to

hurch in the morning?

I dont know, replies Bo, I havent been in so

ong, I dont want people to look at me funny.


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Dont worry about what other people think. You are

he notorious Bo Brogan, big time lawyer, where is this

elf-consciousness coming from?

Maybe I just feel bad for being out of the church foro long and being so self-centered. All I have thought

bout since I graduated was my next big win, whether it

was an A on a college exam, or a case with a new client,

winning the case, I havent prayed in so long that it is

athetic.

Its never too late to start, says Katy.

Do you pray a lot? asks Bo.

Umm, yes, I pray about 15 times a day, NOTncluding bed time prayers.

What do you say? he asks.

I say a lot of stuff. I thank God for everything that Heas given me - my house, my job, my car, the sunlight and

eautiful trees and plants, Miss Viola, and just recently, I

hanked Him for you.

You did? he asks.


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Yup.

Why would you do that? he asks.

Because you have made me realize that I need tove for myself a little bit more, be more spontaneous and

ot worry so much. I need to take some time for mysel

very now and then to relax and have my own life. Dont

et me wrong, it feels great helping others, but sometimes I

hink that I spend so much time helping others that I forget

o help myself.

How did I make you realize that? asks Bo.

There is a long sigh. By showing up here being the

omplete opposite of me, but at some point since you haveeen here I saw a change in you. You dont want to be

who you are being and I dont want to be who I am being.

mean I do, but it just needs a little tweaking, and maybe

we can help each other with that.

You know, they say opposites attract, says Bo.

Do they now? she replies.

Suddenly, there

Documents

Small Town Tango - Jennifer LeJeune