Trials and Perseverance

Trials and

Perseverance

J.A. Massa

AuthorHouse™

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© 2012 J.A. Massa. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 9/13/2102

ISBN: 978-1-4772-6662-5 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4772-6661-8 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4772-6660-1 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2012916282

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Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty One

Chapter Twenty Two

Chapter Twenty Three

Chapter Twenty Four

Chapter Twenty Five

Chapter Twenty Six

Chapter Twenty Seven

Chapter Twenty Eight

Chapter Twenty Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty One

Chapter Thirty Two

Chapter Thirty Three

Chapter Thirty Four

Chapter Thirty Five

Chapter Thirty Six

Chapter Thirty Seven

Chapter Thirty Eight

Chapter Thirty Nine

Chapter Forty

Chapter Forty One

Chapter Forty Two

Chapter Forty Three

Chapter Forty Four

Chapter Forty Five

Chapter Forty Six

Chapter Forty Seven

Chapter Forty Eight

Chapter Forty Nine

Chapter Fifty

Chapter Fifty One

Chapter Fifty Two

Chapter Fifty Three

About the Author

Dedication

To my Wife, Judy

and

to Suzy who took the time to edit the book.

Chapter One

A small boat drifts quietly over the calm waters of Lake Chaffee. The only sound on the lake this morning is the ripples of the water as they bounce rhythmically against the side of the boat. A slight breeze is blowing from the west. The smell of rain is in the air. In the boat Clay Johnson and his long time friend Freeman Stamford wait patiently for the tell tale sign that a fish has noticed the bait they offer. Clay, a forty-two year old Private Detective, stands nearly six feet two inches tall. He prides himself in staying in excellent physical shape. When working locally, Clay frequents the gym where he holds a lifetime membership. When working on a case away from home, Clay runs three to five miles each day. Clay started his own private detective agency fifteen years ago in the small town of Stafford, Oregon. His reputation as a case solver is known throughout the state. Over the years, police departments state wide, as well as private citizens, have contacted him for assistances in solving their most difficult cases. Twice Clay worked cases with agents from the FBI. When those cases were solved, both Clay and the FBI agents admitted they learned a great deal from one another.

A sworn bachelor, Clay has never been married. His focus has always been on the cases in front of him. He feels women would only be a distraction. Only once has he let a woman get close to him and that ended in tragedy.

A graduate of the University of Oregon, Clay holds a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice. It was during his freshman year of college when Clay met Freeman. From the start the two established a life long friendship.

The slightly overweight Freeman is also forty-two. Freeman stands roughly five feet nine inches. The only exercise that Freeman partakes in, consists of lifting a few beers when he goes off duty. Often, Clay has offered Freeman the opportunity to work out at the gym with him. The two times Freeman did go, he tip the scale at over two hundred and thirty pounds. He spent the entire time at the gym, sitting in the sauna. When he exited the sauna and stepped back onto the scale, he announced to his friend that he has lost four pounds. Yes sir Partner, this gym life is a great idea. The last time Freeman visited a gym was nearly five years ago.

Freeman also works as a detective. Although he isn’t licensed as a private detective, Freeman has worked the last fifteen plus years for the Stafford police department.

Unlike Clay, Freeman has been married. His marriage lasted just over six years, before ending in divorce. He has now been divorced for several years. He has one daughter, Amanda, now twenty years old. Clay had been Freeman’s best man at his wedding, and is God-father to Amanda. Soon after the divorce, Freeman’s former wife Mae, moved herself and Amanda to Arizona.

Freeman holds a bachelors degree in criminal justice from the University of Oregon. Since their early days of college, he and Clay have been inseparable. When Freeman and Mae separated, Clay opened his house to Freeman. The two shared Clay’s place for nearly three months. To this day they make it a point to have dinner together at least once a week.

Both Oregon Duck fans, they will get together on the weekends to either go to one of the Duck’s home games or watch the games together on Clay’s big screen television.

Unlike Clay, Freeman doesn’t feel women can get in the way of work. Though he has little success with the ladies, he continues to flirt every chance he gets.

The two have been planning this week long fishing trip for several months. It had been long over a year since either man had taken any time off. Clay purchased the cabin the winter before. His love for fishing is only surpassed by the ‘Ducks’ football games. It seemed like the ideal spot to spend a week of peace and quiet and a lot of fishing.

Feeling the gentle breeze increasing to a wind against his face and noticing the water becoming choppy, Clay looks in the direction of the cabin. A large black rain cloud hangs over it. Looks like we may get wet before we can get back to the cabin Free. Clay points out the black cloud lingering over the cabin. A flash of lighting streaks across the sky. Well shoot! Freeman says. We might as well head back in. There’s nothing biting anyhow. Clay nods his approval. Clay slips on his bright yellow rain slicker. He tosses Freeman a large black plastic bag. Here this will keep some of the rain off of you Free. Freeman puts a hole in the bottom of the bag, big enough to slip his head through. He places the bag over his head and pulls it down. The bag proves enough to cover his chest and most of his pot bellied stomach. Pretty smart! Clay tells him. Freeman winks.

Freeman notices small circles forming on the surface of the water caused by raindrops falling into the lake. He feels the rain splashing on his face. He hears the tapping sound the drops make as they strike the plastic bag. Better get a move on Partner. Starting to rain. Freeman shouts back at his friend. I’ve got her wide open now, Free. You want to get out and push? Clay laughs. His laugh comes to an abrupt end as the sky opens up. The rain begins to fall in sheets. From the back of the boat, where he sits, Clay can no longer see the bow of the small boat. Where in the hell the dock go? Freeman shouts back to Clay. Hopefully on the other side of this rain. He’s told. When they finally reach the dock the rain is still coming down in torrents. Leave everything where it is Free. We’ll go back out this afternoon if this rain lets up.

Both men make a mad dash up the slope towards the cabin. Out of the corner of his eye, Clay sees two women franticly running back and forth from their SUV to the cabin that neighbors his. Both women are soaked. It appears to him they are carrying in groceries. Crazy damn women, Clay thinks to himself. Is anything in those bags so important that it can’t wait until this rain lets up? Clay turns and rushes to their aid. By the time he arrives only two bags remain in the vehicle. He grabs both the bags in his arms. Using his hip he slams the door shut. He rushes to their cabin, bags in hand. Both women stand inside at the doorway soaked from the torrential rain. Standing outside their doorway Clay hands the bags to one of the women. Is that it? he asks. Just our luggage, but it can wait until this rain passes. Thank you so much. Clay studies the two women. The one he handed the bags to is the older of the two. Clay would guess her to be mid thirties. She is blonde and if not for the unexpected drenching she received, could be quite pretty. He notices the younger of the two women. She is maybe twenty. She stands off to the side shivering from the cold wet clothing. Clay shakes his head no, smiles and runs back to the SUV. He grabs two bags. Runs to the door of the cabin and sits them inside. He runs back for two more bags. Several trips later, Clay sets the last of the suitcases inside the cabin’s door. That’s it! he tells the oldest woman. She thanks him and asks him to step in out of the rain. Clay thanks her and steps in. He closes the door behind him. Water runs off his rain slicker. It’s forming a puddle on the floor where he stands. Oh look what I’m doing to your floor, he tells her, backing his way towards the door again. Don’t worry about it. she tells him. She is also drenched. She shivers from the wet clothing that clings to her. She looks down where she stands. His eyes follow hers to a small puddle forming under her feet. She smiles and thanks him again. That was pretty gallant of you coming to our rescue the way you did. she tells him. The luggage really could have waited until this storm passes. Clay looks over at the younger woman then back to the elder of the two. He notices that the young woman is still shivering from the cold, wet clothing. I don’t think so. You two need to get out of those wet things and get into something dry before you both catch your deaths. Seems to me if anything could have waited, it would have been your groceries. They couldn’t. I have so many perishables that I needed to get put away. She holds out her hand and introduces herself. I’m Connie Simpson and this is my daughter Beth. He takes her hand in his and introduces himself. I’m Clay Johnson. Even with her hair soaked, hanging straight and unruly he can tell she is a very attractive woman. Her eyes are emerald green that sparkle like the highly polished gems they match in color. Clay is instantly fascinated with her eyes. Never has he seen eyes this beautiful before. They are further accented by her high cheek bones and blonde hair. She flashes him a sparking smile. Clay’s eyes slowly move down her body to the puddle under her feet. Her wet clothing clings to her body, allowing Clay to see she has larger than average breast. Her slender waist and flat stomach tells Clay that this is a woman enjoys taking care of herself physically. His eyes continue to move down her body. He notices her slightly broad hips and the two shapely legs. Look Mrs. Simpson I would love to stay and get to know my new neighbors but you really need to get out of those wet things. Beth is starting to turn blue. Clay spots the fireplace in the main room of the cabin. Along side of it are several split logs and some kindling. You two really need to go get out of them clothes and into something warm and dry. By the time you come out, I’ll have this whole place dry and the dampness gone. Connie gives him a strange look that Clay spots right away. He smiles. Nothing major, he tells her. I’m just going to start you up a small fire. It will keep the dampness from coming down your chimney. A fire in April? she asks. I thought you only used fireplaces in the winter? Clay laughs. Don’t tell me that you’ve never spent a romantic evening sitting on the floor in front of a fire place with that special someone? Regardless of what month, there is nothing like a cozy, romantic fire. She shakes her head no. I haven’t spent an evening like that, Mr. Johnson, and I’m not interested in romance! Clay smiles, It’s ok Mrs. Simpson. I didn’t mean to give you the wrong impression. I’m safe. Romance and my job don’t agree, and I certainly don’t get involved with married women. I was just trying to be helpful. Nothing more. Clay turns and starts for the cabin’s door. If you need anything while you’re here, my friend and I are in the cabin next door. Clay reaches for the door handle. No! Wait! Mr. Johnson. Clay turns and looks at her. It’s Clay, he tells her. Connie is looking into two sexy grey eyes. The smile on his face convinces her she has nothing to fear from this man. Ok Clay. I’m just a little uncomfortable, you being here. Clay smiles. Without realizing it, Connie has just lied to herself. She is definitely beginning to feel comfortable with him. Pardon me for saying so Mrs. Simpson, you’re a strange one. What do you mean by that? she asks. Well first off it’s hard to believe that a pretty lady like you never shared a cozy fire with anyone. Now your asking me to believe that you, never been alone in your home with a man. In this case your not even alone, you have your lovely daughter with you. She looks at him with her piercing green eyes. I don’t see where that would really concern you, but for your information, I haven’t been alone with a man in my home. Only my husband! Clay send her his best smile. Not eve a repairman fixing something? She offers a weak smile. I’m sure there have been times I had someone there fixing something. I told you I’m safe. Clay tells her Consider me your repairman. I’m sort of a jack-of-all-trades. One thing I’m not good at is being a doctor, which you and Beth are going to need if you stay in those wet clothes much longer. You can go into your rooms and lock the doors behind you if you like. I give you my word I won’t bother either of you. I’ll get you a nice fire going and let myself out. It looks to me like your planning on being here a while so I’m sure we’ll have a chance to get to know one another over the next few days. Maybe by the time I leave here, you can put some of your tension behind you and relax. Clay can’t remember the last time he met anyone so untrusting. She must have her reasons, he thinks. Why else would she come up here with just her daughter? Oh well; It’s none of my business. he thinks. So what about the fire? Mrs. Simpson. She smiles. It would be nice, thank you and please call me Connie. Ok Connie. Like I said I’ll let myself out once I get your fire going. Don’t forget if you need anything at all, we’re in the next cabin.

Since her recent divorce, Connie has had little trust in strangers. Especially men. Strangely though, she has formed an instant trust in this man. His eyes told hers she has nothing to fear from this man. Connie thinks to herself, as long as he believes I’m married I guess I have nothing to worry about. In time, maybe I’ll tell him the truth. For now I think I’ll be safer, him thinking I’m married. Well? Clay says breaking her train of thought. Do you change? Or do I run into Chaffee and find you two a doctor? We’re going. Connie tells him taking Beth’s hand. Why are you lying to him mom? Beth whispers to her mother softly enough that he can’t hear them. We really don’t know him Sweetie, Connie tells her daughter. He seems very nice to me and he looks like Mr. America. Connie smiles. Don’t judge people by what they look like. Choose your friends by who they are, she tells Beth. The women enter the larger of the two bedrooms and close the door behind them.

With the women safely behind the closed door, drying off and changing clothes, Clay has a cozy fire going in no time. See you soon! he shouts to the women. Clay moves out the front door of the cabin and is on a dead run back to his own cabin, as the rain has once again intensified.

Where you been man? Last thing I knew, you were right behind me, Freeman asks as Clay walks through the front door. Oh thought I would stop by and meet the new neighbors, Clay answers. In this frigging monsoon? I thought I taught you better than that. Oh! Wait a minute, now I understand, what’s she look like? Freeman asks with a grin. Who said it was a she? Freeman continues his playful interrogation of his good friend, while Clay removes his rain gear. I know you man. Before you would pay a social call in weather like this, it has to be a she. She must be pretty good looking too. I don’t know what your talking about Free, Clay tells him. Don’t give me that shit! Remember, Partner, I’m a detective just like you. The way your acting is a dead give away it’s a she, and she must be quiet a looker! Clay laughs Nah, she’s a little old lady. She must be in her eighties. She’s staying there with her mother is all. Right, Freeman tells him. I know when your jerking my chain. Clay smiles. Ok Free you win. She’s may be forty at the most. She has the most incredible green eyes and blonde hair. She has a body that could stop a freight train. Freeman laughs. Looks like you got me bamboozled for sure. Now I don’t know what to believe. Clay smiles at his long time friend. I’m just having a little fun with you Free. Freeman grabs a beer, turns on the television and finds game shows, and soap operas. Damn it Partner! All they got on during the day is shit shows. Free you really need to clean up your mouth. Clay glances at the clock on the wall. Look Free. It’s just after 11:00. How about getting me up about 3:00 this afternoon. Why? You got a date? Freeman asks. I just thought if this weather breaks, maybe we can get in a little afternoon fishing in." Clay goes into the main bedroom, closes the door and removes his clothes. He slips under the covers and is soon fast asleep.

Chapter Two

Freeman has fallen asleep on the small sofa in the main room of the cabin. He is awakened by the sound of knocking on the cabin’s door. He opens his eyes, sits up, opens his arms wide and stretches. Another knock on the door. Anyone home? he hears the soft voice asking. I’m coming! Don’t get your panties in a wad! he tells the voice on the other side of the door. Moving slowly to answer the door, he glances at the clock on the wall. It’s just after 3:00 pm. Opening the door he finds a very attractive blonde woman standing on the porch. Oh! I’m sorry! I must have the wrong cabin, she tells the portly stranger with the unshaven face. Who were you expecting? he asks, Tom Cruise? She remembers Clay mentioning having a friend staying with him. Actually I was looking for a tall gentleman with a nice build, dark hair and pretty grey eyes. Freeman raises up onto the balls of his feet, sticks his chest out, and closes his eyes. Will I do? he asks. She giggles, maybe. But I’m really looking for, I’m sure he said his name was Clay? Freeman tells her she has the right cabin. Sorry about that panty comment. Back home. where I live, I get a lot of people knocking on our doors trying to sell us a bunch of crap that we don’t need or want. Connie smiles. So are you the one that sends them to my door? she asks. What? he questions. What I’m saying is those people are knocking on my door all the time too. Freeman invites her in with a smile. Let me get that tall, well built Clay with the sexy eyes out of bed. Oh! Please don’t wake him! It’s really not that important. She tells him. It’s ok. He wanted up at 3:00 anyhow. Your timing couldn’t have been better. Have a seat. As Freeman is walking away, Connie can hear him mumbling something about an eighty year old woman. She moves and sits on the sofa. Freeman enters Clay’s room, closes the door behind him. He is still mumbling something about an eighty year old woman. Freeman quietly walks up to his sleeping friend. Freeman shakes Clay’s shoulder. Hey bum. You have some eighty year old broad here looking for you. Clay sits upright in the bed trying to get his eyes to focus. What are you talking about Free? Freeman smiles. The old heifer from next door is sitting in the front room. Without saying another word, Freeman walks back into the main room. He’ll be out as soon as he gets his pants on. Can I get you a beer while you wait? She declines his offer. A little early in the day for me and beer. A nice cup of coffee would be wonderful. Freeman sends her a smile. Make yourself comfortable. It won’t take me long to get coffee brewing. Clay will need some anyhow to help open those sexy grey eyes of that tall gentleman you’ve come looking for. Connie chuckles. "I never said his eyes were sexy I said they were pretty. Freeman starts for the kitchen while Connie sits on the sofa in the cabin’s main room.

Clay emerges from the bedroom and walks over to where Connie sits. Hi again. He tells her. I almost didn’t recognize you. She looks puzzled. Clay reaches and gently pulls on a lock of her hair. Oh! she smiles I must have looked a site earlier. I manage to find a little time to shower, put on a touch of makeup, and fix my hair. Which brings me to one of my the reasons for stopping by. You did say if we needed anything at all, just ask. Well I’m here to ask. Are you a man of your word? Connie sends Clay her beautiful smile. I am, he tells her. Ask away dear lady. Connie begins. I enjoy a nice warm shower, she tells him, It appears we have no hot water in our cabin. Hmm, Clay breaths aloud. Did you start the water heater? Connie hangs her head. I wouldn’t know where to begin. Clay laughs. I’m sure we can take care of that in no time. Is there anything else? Connie nods yes. One other small favor to ask. Beth and I talked, and after that kind jester you made earlier this morning, we thought maybe you and your friend would like to have dinner with us? It’s the very least we can do to say thank you and show our appreciation. Clay offers her a smile. He points to the cushion next to the one she sits on . May I? he asks. She smiles and nods a yes. That’s really nice of you Connie, but it’s not necessary. We have a fridge full of fish. Freeman; Clay pauses. Where is he anyhow? She points to the kitchen. He is putting some coffee on. Clay continues. Well like I as saying. We have all these fish here on ice. Freeman is a culinary genius when it comes to fish. If we don’t get a little help eating them, I’m afraid a lot of them will just end up in the trash. So what do you say Connie? How about you and Beth joining us in a fish fry tonight? Connie considers the offer. Something wrong with a free meal? he asks. Connie looks deep into his eyes. How would that be Beth and I showing our appreciation to you for this morning? she ask. Clay shakes his head. It really wouldn’t I guess, but no thanks are necessary. This morning was nothing more then just being neighborly. Connie is still being hesitant. Clay sees it right off. If it helps in your decision you can look at it as a small price to pay, to have Clay the plumber turn on your water heater. he tells her with a laugh. Connie laughs along with him Resorting to blackmail Mr. Jones? she asks. Clay tells her, it’s Johnson not Jones and the real reason I ask is because of all the fish we have on ice. I hate to see them go to waste. It’s also an opportunity for my friend and I to share an evening with two lovely ladies. Connie is becoming nervous again. You remember I’m married. she tells him. I know. he tells her. Personally I see nothing wrong with neighbors sharing a meal together. No strings attached. Maybe I’m wrong and if so I apologize. I don’t want you to feel uncomfortable. I believe in honesty. I was asking you to help Free and I eat some of these fish. Nothing more. Connie frowns. Clay spots it. Something I said? he asks. Connie nods yes. I’m sorry, Clay tells her. If you were expecting anything more then a great, free meal and some good company, your would be very disappointed. I told you married women are taboo with me. Connie hangs her head in shame. That’s not it at all. It’s what you said about being honest. Clay looks at her with a puzzled expression. I’m not sure I understand. I’m always honest. A weak smile crosses her face. She looks up and into his eyes. So am I Clay. Maybe to honest for my own good. I lied to you. I know it’s not a good way to start a friendship but I’m afraid. Afraid of me? he asks. Connie hangs her head then raises and looks deep into his caring grey eyes. Lately I’m afraid of everyone. I lied to you. I’m not married. I was for twenty years but we divorced two months ago. I felt if you thought I was married I would be safe with you. Clay takes her hand in his. Married or single, divorced or widowed, I assure you that your safe with me. Connie’s eyes continue to search his for the truth. This maybe one of the craziest things I’ve ever done Clay but I believe you. Why I don’t know. Let’s call it a woman’s intuition. Since I’m not sure I can afford your plumbing bill, an if the offer still stands, we accept your invitation for dinner under two conditions. Conditions? Clay asks. Connie nods yes. As long as you and your friend promise to join Beth and I tomorrow night at our place for dinner. Connie pauses. No problem there. Clay tells her. What’s the other condition? Connie smiles again. That your friend doesn’t mind the company and the work your going to put him through? You never even asked him, she tells him with a chuckle. I’ve known Free a long, long time. I know what he minds and doesn’t mind. As an after thought Clay adds. I take it you have met Freeman? Sort of, She tells him. I met him at the door. We had an interesting conversation about crap and panties. She laughs. Freeman is a bit peculiar. He takes a little getting use too. He speaks his mind without thinking. His language is pretty harsh at times but we’ve been working on it. I hope he didn’t offend you? Connie smiles. Not at all. It’s refreshing to find someone who speaks their mind.

Freeman comes from the kitchen. He carries a large tray. On it is a small coffee pot, two cups, some sugar, a carton of cream and a bottle of beer. He sets the tray on the small coffee table in front of the sofa. He bows at the waist and tells them, coffee is served. Connie chuckles and Clay shakes his head in disbelieve. Why do I feel like a frigging butler? he asks. Clay laughs. I don’t have any idea why you feel that way Free. You look more like the chef type to me. Freeman reaches for his beer. He pats his beer belly. You maybe right there Partner. I’ve got me a chef tum tum for sure. Freeman sits it the over stuffed recliner off to the right of the sofa. Both Connie and Clay laugh. Connie Simpson, this poor excuse of a human being is Freeman Stamford, my oldest and closest friend. Freeman laughs. I think I’m your only friend Partner," he laughs. Connie is a bit surprised that Clay remembered her full name. As Freeman stands to greet Connie, Clay is noticing just how beautiful this woman is. Every strand of her blonde hair rest neatly in place. It falls gracefully in a style that accents her facial features. She has high cheek bones and a perfectly shaped nose. The radiant smile she flashes often, shows a glimpses of her perfectly formed bright white teeth. What impresses Clay the most are her intriguing eyes. Clay is staring into the most beautiful eyes he has ever seen. Two sparkling pools of emerald green.

Freeman too is beginning to notice how attractive she is. Connie wears a soft blue blouse that covers, but can’t hide, larger breast then you would expect on a woman her size.. A pair of white shorts show off strong but shapely legs. Freeman walks over and shakes her hand. Really nice meeting you Connie. Freeman too is now looking into those incredible green eyes. How’s your mother? Freeman asks. Looking into her amazing eyes. My mother? a puzzled Connie replies. Freeman smiles, Clay told me that an eighty year old woman and her daughter were sharing the cabin next door. You sure don’t look eighty so I assume you’re the daughter? Clay’s face is beet red. He hangs his head. I was just having some fun with Free. I hope it didn’t upset you? Connie is laughing harder then she has in years. She reaches over and takes Clay’s hand in hers. It’s ok Clay. In fact I find it a very funny."

Free. Connie and her daughter are without hot water. Hum? Sounds to me like they didn’t crank up the water heater. Want me to run over and take care of it for them Partner? Clay shakes his head no. Connie and I are going over to take care of it. Freeman noticing that Connie has yet released his friends hand jokingly ask, Sure that’s all you plan on taking care of Partner? Clay looks at Connie. Her face is flush with embarrassment. Why would you even think something like that Free!? Clay asks. Well she is one fine looking woman. You two seem pretty cozy sitting there together holding hands. After the hand holding comes the kissing then the exploring of each others bodies. Before Freeman can continue, Clay chastises him. That’s enough Free! Ah hell Partner! She’s got a kid. Not like she doesn’t know about the birds and the bees. Clay stands. I’m about to give up on you Free. I honestly thought you were starting to clean up your mouth. Freeman hangs his head. What you say around me I don’t care, but in mixed company, try to think before you open your mouth. Sure Partner. Oh and by the way Free. I asked the gals to join us for a fish fry tonight. I hope you don’t mind doing a little extra cooking? Give you a chance to use your chef skills. Freeman nods. The cooking I don’t mind. The bullshit I can live without. Of course I don’t mind cooking. Might be nice seeing something more pleasant then your ugly mug sitting across from me at dinner tonight Partner." Freeman laughs.

Clay stands and holds out his hand to Connie. Shall we go? he asks. Connie walks over to the chair that Freeman sits in. It’s ok Freeman. You just be yourself. Your right, I think I’ve about heard it all, but I would appreciate it if while Beth is here, you think before you speak. Sheepishly Freeman tells her he will try. Connie places her hand in Clay’s. The two leave Clay’s cabin and start towards Connie’s.

The two slowly walk hand in hand to the women’s cabin. Connie looks into Clay’s face. I can see now why you said Freeman would take some getting use to. Has he always been this way? Clay chuckles. Before I started reminding him to watch his mouth, he was worse. Believe me Connie, he has come a long way. Enough about Freeman, what about you? What about me? she asks. For starters, from the looks of all those groceries, not to mention all that luggage, it looks like you and your daughter plan on staying here a while? She tells him they had planned on staying the entire summer at least. Then what? Clay asks. Connie tells him she really didn’t know what they would do when the summer passed. I’m really not sure about trying to spend a winter here. Only source of heat is that wood burning stove and a fire place. Neither Beth nor I are handy with an axe. Clay laughs. Come fall you will find many of the town folks parked along side the road selling firewood from their flatbeds and pick-up trucks. It’s not that expensive either. So what’s winter like up here? I would imagine pretty harsh? she says. He tells her he hadn’t tried to go through a winter up here. He explains how he had purchased his cabin as a Christmas present for himself last November. Pretty extravagant Christmas present! She tells him. Is your last name really Johnson? Or is it Rockefeller? Clay laughs. It’s Johnson. He tells her. When I was a kid, my folks use to bring me up here every summer on vacation. A couple years ago I started thinking about those summers. I looked around at a few places and settled on what I have now. I though of asking Santa for it but rather then ask Santa for it, I decided to purchase it on my own. Let Santa spend his money on the children, he tells her. Oh so you have children? she asks. Clay answers no. I meant the children of the world. Connie send him a big smile. Very thoughtful of you Clay, she tells him. As far as wintering it out here, I’ve asked around. Most of the folks here stay year round. This is a really peaceful town. One day when I decide enough is enough, I plan on coming up here and never leaving. Connie tells him that the area is just what she needs right now. Need or desire? Clay asks. She explains she needed to just get away for a while. Away from where or what? he asks. Pleasantville. It’s a small community about eighty miles from here. I know it well, Clay tells her. We’re almost neighbors. Freeman and I are from Stafford.

Connie and Clay reach the women’s cabin. Connie opens the door an the two of them step in. Beth sit’s at the small table in the dinning area of the cabin. Seeing Clay Beth jumps to her feet. She is wearing a long terrycloth bath robe. Mom! I’m not dressed.! Clay laughs. It’s ok Beth your fine and I won’t be but a minute. Connie leads Clay into the kitchen area. He opens a closet and finds the hot water heater. In no time he has it lit. I have the water temp set at 110 degrees. If it needs to be a little higher let me know. Great! Beth tells him. I’m about to freeze from that cold shower. Clay laughs. Better give it at least thirty minutes to heat the water hon. If you can’t wait, your more then welcome to use our shower. Beth thanks him but declines the offer. I can wait. Clay adds a log to the fire place and asks if there is anything else. Connie shakes her head no. That water heater runs on gas, he tells her. I’ll check the tanks on my way back to my place. If you need some, I have my cell phone with me and I’ll call the order in if you like? Connie looks confused. Maybe you better show me where I put the gas in Clay. Clay laughs a hardy laugh. Sure, he tells her. I would guess the tank or tanks are on the back side of the cabin. They walk to the back of the cabin and there sits two silver tanks. So where’s the gas go in? she asks. That my Dear you don’t have to worry about. The person who delivers it will pump it into your tanks. Clay shows her the small gages on the tanks. See this one is in the green reading full. This other tank shows it’s a little better than half full. If you see one of these arrows go into the yellow, it’s time to call the gas man. Clay turns taking each of her hands in his. Connie are you sure your going to be ok here alone? Connie looks and gives him a weak smile. Don’t worry about me. After all I have a neighbor who will take care of things for me for the price of a meal. Anything else? She nods no. Then I guess I’ll see you in a little while, he tells her. As he turns and starts for his cabin, Connie stops him with Clay? He turns and looks at her. What time? Clay looks puzzled. Dinner? she asks. What time would you like us to show up? she asks. Let’s say 7:00, but feel free to stop in any time. The front door is always open. As Clay leaves Beth has joined her mother outside. Mom!? You have a date? Connie smiles. No darling. We’ve just been invited to dinner with them that’s all."

Once back inside his cabin Clay turns to Freeman. Well Free, what do you think? Freeman finishes the last swallow of his beer. Shit Partner, I’m on vacation. I don’t want to think. Clay smiles Just one question Free, are you interested in her? Who? Freeman asks. Connie. Nah not really. Are you Partner? Clay nods, I could be. Freeman shakes his head. Better check her out good Partner. Make sure there is on jealous husband or boyfriend in the picture. Sure would hate to have to investigate your murder. Clay nods. Already have Free. No husband and no boyfriend. I don’t know Partner, Freeman continues. She sure is a pretty woman, big tits and a great ass. It’s hard to picture something as sweet as that not having some guy lurking around the corner. Clay glares at his good friend. Free. So far you’ve done great around her. You’ve cleaned up your mouth pretty well. I don’t care what Connie told you about just being yourself. Try working a little harder at keeping all conversations clean. Especially with the kid around. Freeman nods. Sure Partner."

Chapter Three

Later that evening, Clay sits on the sofa. His 9mm. lays in pieces on the coffee table in front of him. The weapon is a couple days over due for its weekly cleaning. Pushing the cleaning rod, through the barrel with a lightly oiled swab, Clay hears a knock on the cabin’s door. Freeman is busy in the kitchen getting things ready for the nights dinner. I got it Free, Clay yells. He sets the half assembled weapon down on the coffee table. Reaching and opening the door Clay is stunned. WOW! he exclaims. Don’t you look both look lovely! Connie is wearing a red skirt with a soft blue blouse. Around her neck she wears a simple gold chain. The earrings she wears are medium loops. On her feet are a pair of blue pumps that match her blouse and accents her beautiful eyes. Beth wears a pretty white blouse and dark blue skirt. Connie holds a bottle of white wine in her hands. She hands the wine to Clay. White wine with fish, she explains. Red wine with beef, Clay smiles. Please come in ladies. Clay motions them to the sofa. As they move towards the sofa they both see the hand gun laying in pieces on the table. Clay spots the shocked expression on the two women’s faces. I’m sorry, he tells them, it comes with the job? Job? Connie asks? I guess we never did mention what we did for a living. Clay tells the her. Both Freeman an I are detectives. Me, I have my own business and Freeman works for the Stafford police department. Wow! Beth exclaims. Ever have to use it? Clay shakes his head no and adds he hopes he never has to. Clay quickly assembles the weapon and places it in a desk drawer. Feel better? he asks with the weapon tucked safely away. Much, Connie tells him. Freeman walks in freshly showered and clean shaven. He greets the two women. Oh my! What a lovely sight for my eyes to behold! Two ravishing women! Freeman bends at the waist. He takes Beth’s hand in his. He raises it to his lips. He gently kisses the back of her hand. You must be the little princess I’ve heard about? Freeman asks. Beth giggles. I’m not a princess. I’m just Beth Simpson. Freeman smiles. To me your are as lovely as any princess. From now on, as far as I’m concerned, you are a princess. Then to Connie he says, and you my lovely lady are simply gorgeous! He raises her hand and kisses it as well. Down boy, Clay laughs. Freeman takes the bottle of wine from Connie and moves back to the kitchen. Both Clay and Connie sees Beth’s eyes following Freeman until he turns the corner and is out of sight. He’s doesn’t look scruffy to me mom. I think he’s sort of cute. Connie gives her daughter a stern look. Feeling comfortable with the weapon away Connie moves and sits on the sofa. You can sit next to my mom if you like Mr. Johnson, Beth tells Clay. She moves to the easy chair. Thank you Beth, very sweet of you. Please call me Clay. Freeman returns carrying a bottle of beer. Anyone care for one of these? he asks pointing to the bottle. I would! Beth says. Freeman glares at her. How old are you Princess? She hangs her head. Almost twenty-one, she tells him. Freeman wears a solemn look on his face. I remember reading once where women under the age of twenty-one who drink beer, take a risk of loosing all of their hair. Can you picture yourself bald? Are you willing to take the chance? Beth smiles. Oh Freeman your so funny, Beth tells him. Tell you what, Princess. Clay has some cokes in the fridge would you like one of them? he asks. Maybe with my dinner, she tells him. Freeman sits on the arm of the easy chair next to Beth. Beth looks up into his face and smiles.

You gals didn’t have dressed up so pretty for dinner. As great as you both look you must have spent a lot of time getting ready. Your making me feel guilty in these shorts and T-shirt, Clay tells the women. Connie blushes. I guess some old habits are hard to break. Don’t worry about the way your dressed you guys look fine to me. Clay looks puzzled. Old habits? Connie explains how her former husband had insisted that women should always dress what he called, lady like. Especially for dinner, she adds. Well you both look lovely, but out here I think comfort is more important. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying that I don’t enjoy seeing a woman dressed up when the occasion calls for it. For example, when I take a lady out, I too like to see them looking their best. You know ‘lady like.’ Oh do you take many women out? Connie asks. Freeman interrupts. Yes Clay. When was the last time you took a woman out for dinner. Nineteen-fifty- what? Clay flashes his friend a stern look. I go out now and then Free. Sure Freeman adds. If it’s business related. he tells Clay with a chuckle. Connie searches Clay’s eyes for the truth. I would have thought there was a Mrs. Johnson? Something else we failed to discuss earlier. Is there a Mrs. Johnson, Clay? Clay smiles. No. No, Mrs. Johnson. Never has been and probably never will be, he tells her. I’m really surprised! You’re a handsome man. You seem well educated. Your very kind and caring. I’m surprised some lucky woman hasn’t gotten you to the alter. Clay explains. Not too many women could tolerate the type of work I do. He explains that he works a lot of crazy hours. Many times the cases I’m involved in, take me out of town. I could be gone for days, possibly weeks. Not many women could or would put up living in that sort of marriage."

Connie smiles. A chuckle escapes her. Something I said funny to you? Connie gives him her biggest smile. I was just wondering just how good a detective you are? With what you just told me, you can’t even track down the right woman to love, raise a family with and share a life with. Freeman is quick to come to his friends defense. He jumps to his feet. Clay’s the best! Damn it! You come in her looking all good and shit and talk my friend down? There’s nobody better in solving cases in the state then Clay! Connie continues her smile. She reaches and takes Clay’s hand in hers. I was only joking Freeman. With what I’ve learned about Clay the man, I believe he is the very best at what he does. Damn right! Freeman interjects. She looks into Clay’s eyes. I’m trying to picture your life style in my mind Clay. It must be very lonely at times? Clay feels her squeeze his hand ever so slightly. It has it’s moments and it rewards. Your right about there being a lot of women out there that couldn’t deal with your job. There are also many that are more understanding about it. I believe it all starts with trusting your spouse. If you both trust one another, you being on the road and her home alone shouldn’t be a major hurdle for either of you. Clay nods his agreement. Then there are other things she would have to consider, Connie continues. Such as? Clay asks. It sounds like a dangerous job. I mean if you have to carry a gun, it has to be dangerous. That could bother a lot of women. Never knowing what news that knock on the door might bring? Clay tells her that’s true in some cases. But like I told Beth, I have never had to use it and I hope it stays that way. Most of my cases are pretty simple. Runaways, missing persons, cheating husbands and cheating wives. Things of that nature."

Freeman stands. Sorry I snapped at you the way I did Connie. Just you understand, Clay is the best detective in the state. Possibly the entire nation! Connie smiles. It’s ok Freeman. I truly believe you. I’m glad he has a friend so protective of his reputation. Freeman nods. If were going to eat sometime tonight I better get started. Mom. Mind if I help Mr. Freeman? Before Connie can answer Freeman places and arm around Beth’s shoulders. Sure Princess. Let’s go see what we can get into; and it’s Freeman, without the Mister.

Clay and Connie spend the next hour talking about their common interest. They learn they both liked walking, jogging, swimming, hiking, camping and bicycling. I have to admit I still walk and jog some, she tells him but as for the swimming, hiking, camping and