Her Best Smile by Omegaman56,Omegaman56

Her Best smile

Jim Gets Her Best Smile

I put two stories to stories together. LT56linebacker’s, May Sucks – Happy Mother’s Day, Bastard. https://literotica.com/s/may-sucks-happy-mothers-day-bastard. A fun story.

And the great story, George Anderson’s “February Sucks.” I wouldn’t say I liked the ending, but it made me think. And aren’t that what stories are for?

I have written permission from LT56linbacker to use his lovely bride’s story. But Mr. Anderson never replies to emails.

Also, I used part of her story verbatim and italicized her work. I did change it up to meet this story’s needs.

This story is not about the February stories; it’s about Jim and Lydia. I wanted them to find each other and live happily ever after.

NO Sex in this story. The old saying, “Those you cant do, write about it.”

This story is over the top, but I hope you enjoy it. Remember, if you vote, I get at least a one-star.

Characters

May Sucks

Wife Lydia Lawson – Heroine (44). Husband Frank Lawson – Cheating Bastard

Francis Michael – Oldest son (23) Steven Jacob (15) – Youngest Son. Lydia Marie Daughter (7)

Joseph – Lydia’s Father Attorney Francine – Lydia’s Mother

Oldest Brother-Joe Jr. of Lydia William – Youngest Brother of Lydia

Pete- Lydia’s first boyfriend after the divorce.

February Sucks

Jim Carlisle – Betrayed Husband Linda – Slut Wife

Emma – Daughter (13) Tommy-son (10)

GW- Long-time friend of Jim’s Uncle and family attorney.

Marc LaValliere – Womanizer and Douchebag that took Linda from Jim.

Dee and Jane-Friends of Linda’s Dave and Paul, Husbands of Dee and Jane

My responses to my misspelled words and poorly structured sentences have been overwhelming. So I have placed them in this story again for your enjoyment. I know where they are. There is no prize for pointing them out.

Five years later.

Lydia strolled into the Taproom Bar & Lounge, looking for one of her best friends from high school; She glanced around and saw Emily standing behind the bar, loading beer into the cooler.

Moving to the bar, she threw her purse atop and plopped down on the leather stool.

Emily, “I’m here at your highnesses request.”

Emily popped up from the cooler and smiled, “Hey, girl. You made it. How are you doing?”

Lydia replied, “I’m surviving. It’s tough on me being in a one-parent household.”

Emily moved over to the sink and started washing out dirty glasses. “Well, don’t your parents help?

“Yeah, when I ask. I don’t want their help unless I need it. The asshole I married was my mistake, and I must live my stupid decision, and I should pay for it, not them.”

“By the way, I heard. Man, I’m

sorry,” said Emily. “I heard you and Pete broke up. It was a pity. He’s a great guy. And not to mention, gooooood looking.”

“I don’t blame him.” Lydia sighed from heartache and continued, “My boys went nuts and blamed the divorce on me. Michael says that now that he’s a little older, he would have handled it differently.

“Steven wouldn’t accept him as a potential male in the house, even as a friend.” The boy worshiped his dad.

“Jesus, he just wouldn’t let up on him and me. Pete couldn’t take the disrespect and lost his temper a few times. He finally threw in the towel and left.”

“How’s Marie doing? Asked Emily. “She must be getting big.”

Chucking, Lydia replied, “I’ve been feeding her caffeine and sugar. She’s growing like a weed. Do you want to see a picture of her?”

Without waiting for a reply, Lydia dug out her wallet and pulled out Maria’s picture. Here’s her latest school picture,” pushing it over toward Emily. Emily grabbed a towel, dried her hands, and picked up the image to study it.

“Damn, she’s gorgeous. I’m sure glad she’s not mine. When that little cutie starts noticing boys, you’re going to be in trouble. She’ll be a real heartbreaker.”

“Yea, that worries me. Marie needs a strong male role model to help her through those years. My father gave me an excellent male role model to look up to. Up until this shit happened, I was doing great.

“Girls that don’t have a good relationship with their fathers usually have problems during those years.

“That’s true,” replied Emily. “But your dad and your brothers will supply that.”

“Yeah, but she still needs a good father relationship. It’s good to see that in the home,” said Lydia.

“Something else, Emily, I feel so guilty at times. When I look at her just right, she looks like her father. And I have to hold back my rage for him and not project it onto her,” Lydia explained as her eyes swelled. “My biggest fear is I’ll take it out on her someday.”

Emily smiled warmly, “Honey, you’ll never do that. Remember, you had a good strong father figure yourself. And not to mention a mother, she’s a pretty good lady too.”

“Speaking of Frank have you seen?” asked Emily.

Lydia stared into space and then returned to reality, “No, the rat bastard ran off with his blonde Bimbo. He hasn’t seen the kids in a year. My dad had PIs looking for him when he skipped town. So, we haven’t seen a child support check-in, like forever.”

Emily seethed, “God! That pisses me off when the spouse doesn’t take responsibility for their kids.”

“Now that’s what’s so damn important that I had to get dressed and rush over here? I had to shower quickly and get dressed,” asked Lydia. “And besides, I have to go to work tomorrow afternoon.”

“I told you I’m calling in that favor from high school. We’re even now, smirked Emily. You do remember that night at the park on prom night.”

Lydia blushed. “I thought so,” chuckled Emily.

Lydia looked around, “Hey, where is everyone? She asked. “It’s dead in here.”

“Tuesday night before payday. It happens from time to time. But the reason you’re here is because of that guy over there. They both turned to see a scruffy man sitting at the end of the table.”

“That’s a friend of mine, Jim Carlisle. You’re here for him.”

Lydia gazed through the dimly lit room at the man nursing his drink.

“Is he sick?” asked Lydia. “I don’t make house calls. If he’s sick, he needs to go to the hospital.”

“No, not physically, but mentally, and you’re the cure for him. But, listen, he is as good a friend as you are, so I am asking you to help him.”

“Listen, I’m not a psychiatrist. I don’t think I can help,” responded Lydia. “He looks like he needs a professional at this point.”

“Oh, but you can. I truly believe you two are soulmates,” chuckled Emily.

“How in the hell do you figure,” replied Lydia. “Look at him. He’s what, 60?”

“No, Honey, I think he’s a few years younger than you. Look at him again. You don’t recognize him?”

She shook her head and said, “Sorry, I don’t.”

Emily asked,” Do you remember the Marc LaValliere case a few years ago?” Emily took her finger and slowly pointed it in and out toward the man sitting at the end of the bar drowning his sorrows, “That’s the husband.”

“I didn’t say anything earlier because you were dating Peter. Now that’s over. I’m calling in that favor you owed me from high school.”

Lydia gave a wicked smile, “I want to meet him. Please. I’d love to.”

Emily smiled, “I thought you would. Come on over. I’ll introduce you two.”

“Hey Jim, I want you to be a friend of mine. Lydia Lawson. I think you two need to meet. You both have a lot in common.”

Jim looked up and replied in a low growl, “No thanks. We don’t have anything in common. She has no fucking idea what I went through. She’ll never know the pain and humiliation I suffered from the narcissist bitch I was married to. So, get the fuck away from me.”

“Listen, Jim, if you don’t talk to her, the bar is closed to you. You’ve been nursing that screwdriver for an hour. Suppose if I had any sense, I’d cut you off now. Legally I have the right to do it.

“I believe you’ll find you two have a lot in common. So now, take your sorry but cute ass over to one of those booths and grab a seat. And you’ll talk to her. Of course, I’ll furnish the drinks as long as you talk.

Jim thought, “Hot damn, free drinks. Shit yeah. I’ll sit there and listen to the woman.”

Emily studied him, “Oh, by the way, I’m not stupid. If you don’t talk, you don’t drink. None of that, just listening to crap. Capeesh?”

Jim shook his head, dropped his shoulders in defeat, got up, and walked toward the seating area. He sat down, waiting for his guest to arrive.

A minute later, he saw a purse fly across the bench seat before him. Then Lydia slid into the bench across from Jim with the biggest smile. She started to talk.

Jim stuck his hand to stop her and spoke, “Not until I get my screwdriver.”

Emily showed up a few seconds later and placed the libation before Jim. She turned to Lydia. “Do you want anything, Honey?”

“Yeah, do you have Diet Coke? I’ve got work tomorrow afternoon, and I’m pulling a double. I’m taking an extra shift for a friend.”

“Diet Coke it is,” Emily replied. Two minutes later, she reappeared with the drink. She dropped it off and left.

Taking a large gulp from his glass, he looked at Lydia and asked, “What do you want to know?”

“I want everything,” replied Lydia. I want to know what it felt like as you pummeled that motherfucking, son-of-a bitch, cocking sucking bastard, into the ground.”

Jim thought, “I think I’m in love.” Then, looking confused, he responded, “Why?”

“She gritted her teeth and seethed venom with her words. Because my husband did the same damn thing to me on Mother’s Day. Later I found out he was fucking some little slut at his office. So yeah, I want to live vicariously through you. I want everything. So, you’re going to tell me the whole story. And don’t dare leave a damn detail out.”

Jim raised his empty glass to catch Emily’s eyes. A minute later, she placed a new one in front of him. Then she scooped up the empty and left.

Jim took another gulp and told his reoccurring living nightmare that he had lived with since that night in February many years ago.

He looked at Lydia. She sat on the edge of her seat, listening to every riveting detail of the horror that made up Jim’s life hell in the final days of his marriage.

After 15 minutes, Lydia interrupted and said, “Your fucking kidding me. Do you mean to tell me she left? She didn’t even give you a chance to fight her.”

Jim shook his head no. “There wasn’t anything to fight for. Now if she would and said Marc was making unwanted advances toward me. Or won’t let her leave alone. I would’ve gotten my ass kicked to protect her and my kids.”

“If you had fought for me, I would have dropped to my knees and sucked your dick right there on the dance floor,” said Lydia.

Jim thought, “I wonder if she’d like to dance.”

“Please forgive me.” Lydia apologized. “I don’t usually have such a potty mouth, but this makes me so angry. I want to spit nails.”

Jim chuckled. “Sorry to laugh at you. This situation is so fucked up. If I didn’t laugh, I’d cry. And I don’t care if I have a potty mouth.”

“Go on,” she said, “Tell me the rest.”

Thirty minutes later, Jim finished his tale of woe of that night. “Another,” he yelled.

“Be right there,” replied Emily. “Hey, Lydia, you want a fill-up? she asked.

“Yea, thanks,” she replied.

“So tell me about beating the shit out of him. I want every little detail. I want to be able to feel the bastard’s pain. And don’t you dare…… leave anything out?” Lydia waited with bated breath.

Jim chuckled at her again. “I’d love to tell you I stood toe to toe and slugged it out with him, but it didn’t happen that way.

“I wouldn’t have stood a chance against him in a fair fight; he is just too big, but I would’ve given it the old college try. I would have done anything and everything to protect my family. Even die for them.

“I had just come back from my lawyer LW’s office. I had sold half of the business to my business partner and best friend for as long as I remember. He was furious when he found out what Linda did to us. So, I set my plan into motion.

“I sold it to him for $1, plus other valuable considerations. I didn’t want Linda to get a penny of it. He agreed with a handshake to sell it to me once my divorce was settled and everything returned to normal. And if he backstabs me too. Well, I’d rather him steal it from me than her.

“So, I had no assets and job at that point. Linda’s lifestyle was about to take a dramatic change for the worse. I didn’t worry about the kids. Both sets of grandparents would have taken them in. But without Linda.

“LW was completing the paperwork and would file it that day. So, I planned on serving her at work the next day. It wouldn’t mean much, but a little embarrassment in front of her co-workers would do her good. So, I left his office and headed for home early that day.

“Well, guess what? There was a red Ferrari in my driveway when I arrived. Would you like to guess whose car it was?”

Lydia shook her head. “Nah! I’ve got a good idea who it was.”

“I walked into the house to see the asshole and Linda sitting in the living room. She was on the couch, and he was sitting in the chair off to her right.

“As I walked toward them, I noticed Linda was as nervous as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs. I didn’t know what to expect from the two. But I knew something was up.

“Marc started the conversation; “Awe, listen, man. I know I’m an asshole, but I didn’t want it to destroy your marriage. But, unfortunately, I’m a serial seducer, and she never had a chance. So, I’m going to try to make things right. I’ll pay for a two-week cruise to let you reclaim your wife. How about it? It’ll be my treat.”

“Then Linda spoke up, pleading, “Please, Jim, give us a chance. I promise I’ll never let it happen again. I’ll never let another man touch me. I’ll make you the perfect spouse. I’ll give you sex anytime, and anyway you want it.”

“Marc stuck out his, grabbed mine before I could react, and started shaking it. “It’s a deal, right?” he asked.

“I looked at both of them and replied. “Marc, first, you assume I want to reclaim her. Second, her words don’t mean shit with a white dried crust in the corners of her mouth. And that shade of lipstick on your face matches hers. As a matter of fact, it matches the stain on the front of your crotch.

“She gasped and turned pale. Marc started smirking and slowly squeezed my hand with every intention of breaking it. But, unfortunately, that turned out to be his fatal mistake. I had recently begun taking Rat Fighting from a good friend of mine.

Lydia interrupted and asked, “What’s Rat Fighting? I’ve never heard of it.”

Emily delivered another refresher. Jim was starting to slur his words.

Jim continued, “My friend used to be a Navy Seal. They’re taught to put a person down quickly in the most imaginative ways possible. They don’t want to stand there and spar with you when time is of the essence. They’re on a tight timeline. They want you down.

“I’m just an average suburbanite male. We never fight. We use guns for protection. But street fighting, no way. The only time I fought as a kid, we used rules. You know, no biting, no, kicking, and the big one, no shots to nuts. In the real world, it’s not like that. Back then, one of us was scared, and the other was glad of it.

“Because of what happened that night at the club, I decided if a bodyguard threatened me again, it would be the last time he does it. My friend taught me the basics of breaking holds along with neck shots. He taught me that move I used on Marc that day.

Jim was slowing down and slurring more.

“Excuse me, Lydia; I got to go to the little boy’s room. I’ll be right back.” Lydia watched Jim stagger as he headed to the boy’s room.

A few minutes later, Jim stopped by the bar the grabbed another refill.

Jim sat down. And he asked himself, “Where was I? Oh, yes. When Marc started squeezing my hand, I took my left hand, grabbed his wrist, and rotated to my right. As I did, I pulled his hand up to my stomach for leverage and spun as quickly as possible.

“That move caught him off guard. Then, as I pulled him, he lost his balance and fell toward the direction I was pulling him in.

“From that point, he either had to release my hand, or I’d break his wrist. So, when he released it, I reversed my direction and elbowed him in his eye socket as hard as possible.

“I heard later I broke his eye socket and ruptured his eye. He’s legally blind in that eye now. I pinned him between the chair and the sofa as he went down. I got on top of him and tried to beat him to death. I released all the rage I had built over the previous six months on him.

“The next thing I remember, I woke up three months later from a coma.

Lydia said, “I bet that was a surprise.”

“No, not really. The surprise was Linda could hit a two-iron. She had pulled it from the golf bag I had left sitting in the hallway. I should have listened to her and moved it earlier. But I was stubborn. I wasn’t going to do shit for her.”

Lydia laughed, “I love playing golf and can’t hit a two-iron either.”

“The next thing I knew, I was handcuffed to the hospital bed. Later that day, I had the DA and cop come in and read me my rights and the charges against me.

“Wow,” said Lydia. “I’m surprised they didn’t let you die. ”

Jim had slowed down more. “Nooo! They couldn’t afford that to happen. Can you imagine them explaining to the cops a dead husband and lover lying on the floor? And it was clear the wife had killed him.

“The DA would have spun it; I came home early and caught my wife with her lover. Marc being bigger, came at me, and we fought. Finally, Linda came up from behind and killed me.

“If they went to court with it, the DA would bring out what happened at the bar. And the jury would have fried them. So no, they had no choice. By saving me, they could say anything they wanted about that night. Marc had his lawyers get out in front of this. They were speaking to the press weeks before my side of the story was told.

“Again, the next day, a policeman and assistant DA showed up and read me my rights and the charges the asshole had filed against me. I guess DA felt he needed protection from a man that had been in a coma for months and cuffed to the damn bed.

“They charged men with Assault and Battery with the intent to do bodily harm. They said since Marc was pinned in and couldn’t move. I should have gotten up and left. And called the cops.

Plus, another determining factor was I couldn’t prove he tried to hurt me.

I guess I’m lucky; if I had killed him, I would have gotten 20 years for manslaughter.

“Two days later, I woke up to see Linda sitting beside me, staring at the bed. Then, with not so much as how you are doing, Jim, she handed me my divorce papers.

What she said next fucking blew my mind.

“It’s your fault I sucked him off. I wouldn’t have called him for help, but you hadn’t touched me since that night. I was vulnerable and gave in to him. So, when he came, I realized what I had done and was about to start crying. Then he said for the blow job; he would help me out by paying for the two-week trip to make everything up to you.

“Jim, I’m filing for divorce. If you and your precious little ego could have just gotten over this bump in the road, we could still be together and happier than ever. I would have given you more pussy than you could’ve handled.

“But no, you couldn’t, man up. I had a counselor picked out for you to help you deal with your useless ego. And we could have moved on. But no, you wouldn’t fight for us. You’re just a pathetic, self-absorbed, narcissistic, selfish, self-centered asshole. It has always been about you in this relationship.

“The thought of letting you father my children makes me sick. I hope you eat shit and die.”

Lydia snarled, “You’re fucking kidding me. What a delusional fucking cunt.”

Jim replied, “If you’re looking for an argument from me, you’re not getting one.”

“Did you cuss her out? Call her a slut,” asked Lydia.

“No, I didn’t. She was ready for a fight. What I did next really pissed her off. I just agreed with everything she said. You should have seen the look on her face. She turned to beat red and stormed out.”

Lydia chuckled, “Your right. That pisses me off when somebody does that to me when I’m ready for a good fight, and they won’t give me one. Go on; sorry I interrupted.”

He continued the story. “Then I was served with a lawsuit from Marc for destroying his career. You should have seen the look on their lawyers’ faces when LW told them I had nothing. Zero assets. No job, no prospects, and in jail.

“After the lawyers were through with me, if I ever earn another dime, it belongs to him. My former partner gave me a job when I got out of jail on parole. He pays me minimum wage, and my parents pay child support for me. There’s no alimony. I was broke, in prison, and she made more than me.

“I had spent the previous six months getting rid of everything. First, I sold the company and refinanced the house my grandparents had given me before Linda and I was married. Then, I secretly put it into a trust to pay the monthly mortgage.

“Then, I pulled all the investments together and gambled them away. (Jim didn’t tell her he had moved his wealth to an offshore account) I didn’t have a dime to my name. Linda was furious when she saw I had sold the company for a dollar and lost all our money gambling. And there wasn’t a damn thing she could do about it.

“When she went after the house, she found out I Inherited it before we were married, and she had no rights to it. She discovered I had moved it into a trust fund for the kids, and she couldn’t touch me. She went ballistic. But again, there wasn’t anything thing she could do about it.:

Lydia was shaking her head with disgust.

“By then, Linda had taken the kids and moved in with Marc. They’re not married, but they live together as man and wife. Since she was awarded by the court the use of the house until the kids turn 18 in the divorce decree, she rents it out and keeps the money. But, unfortunately, she hasn’t repaired it, and it is starting to show wear and tear.”

Jim snarled with exasperation, “Linda goes out fucks in front in front of the whole damn world. And I can do nothing about it short of killing both of them. And the courts tell me to bend over and smile why they fuck me in the ass without lubricant.”

Just then, he heard a familiar voice, “Last one, big boy. I’m closing early tonight.” Emily slid his fresh drink to him. “I’ve ordered you an Uber for you. I went ahead and paid for it.”

With a sympathetic smile, Lydia asked, “Now you’re out of prison. Do you get to see your kids?”

“Sighing,” Jim continued, “That’s been a nightmare. When I exited jail, a restraining order was placed against me. I couldn’t get within 500 ft of any of them. That included my kids.

“They’re constantly fucking with me. They tried to set me up to violate it. One time they walked into where I was eating. It was at McDonald’s near my place.

“That store was on my side of town; it was the first time they had ever been there.

“Linda tried to call me on my cell phone from a phone number I didn’t recognize, and she taped me talking to her.

“The first thing I did I call my parole officer and LW. Thank God the judge found her at fault and warned her that if she did it again, she would be in contempt of court and serve jail time. So, they cut that shit out in a hurry.”

“Well, what about the kids?” asked Lydia

“It took a while, and I started getting visits every other weekend. Then, of course, I had to have supervised visits. Oh, that’s when they started fucking with me and leaving town when it was my turn to see the kids. I don’t know who the judge was. I want to buy him a beer someday. He ordered her to cut the shit out, or she would be in jail.

“Lydia noticed Jim tearing up.”

In a sad voice, “They turned my daughter Emma against me, and my son Tommy didn’t recognize me. They were terrified of me. It took months to get them to trust me. We finally progressed enough so that we could meet at the park. Not unsupervised yet, though. But I think I am slowly winning over the social worker.”

“All right, guys,” Emily said, taking Jim’s glass and wiping the table. I need you two to go. Uber is on the way and should be here in a minute. Lydia, would you make sure he gets to his car? He needs his wallet and keys to get into his apartment when he gets home.”

Lydia replied. “I got him. Emily, Also, thanks for inviting me. “You were right; I do feel better now.” Come on, Jimmy boy, I’ll escort you out. I don’t want you passing out before your ride gets here.”

They heard the door lock behind them, and the place went dark after the lights were cut off.

“Where’s your car?” Lydia asked.

“It’s over there.” Jim pointed toward an old rusty-laden vehicle. “That piece of shit 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix.”

“Oh, shit!” slurred Jim. Somebody broke my window out. Looking into his car, he noticed his wallet was gone. “Oh well, the jokes the on them.” I had zero dollars in it and no credit cards.” Jim then slid down the side of his car door, the pavement.

Ten minutes later, Uber hadn’t shown up. Lydia was scared and wanted to leave, but she couldn’t leave Jim lying on the ground. So she nudged up to his feet, put him in her car, and took him to her house.

Xxxx

The following day Jim woke up to sunrays beaming through the blinds of an unfamiliar room. He slowly opened his eyes to see a pretty young face staring down at him

Focusing his eyes on the young lady and asked with a moan, “What are you doing?”

“Just looking,” replied the girl.

Jim grabbed his head, “Well, stop looking so loud; it’s killing my head.”

They heard a familiar voice in the den, “Honey, move away from the man. He doesn’t feel good.”

“Mom, can I go and watch the kids play ball?”

“Yes, dear, but stay where I can see you.”

“Yes, Ma’am.” Jim watched as she threw her softball into the air, then missed it with her glove and hit her in the head. “Ow!” she yelped.”

Jim slowly sat up, looked at his surroundings, and asked, “Where am I? You’re Lydia, right?”

“You’re at my house,” she replied.

He looked at Lydia and barked at her. “What in the hell do you think you’re doing? Bringing a strange man you don’t even know into your home. Hell, you have a little girl. I could have been a rapist, pedophile, or serial killer.”

She stared at Jim, placed her hands on her hips, and replied, “I couldn’t just leave you on the ground in that parking lot.

“Your car was broken into, and your wallet had been stolen. Then the damn Uber driver didn’t show up. And besides, it wouldn’t have made a difference anyway. I didn’t have your address. So, I was stuck with your drunk ass.

“And I know all about you. You’ve been a topic for discussion in mine and my families’ houses for years.”

“You know me?” repeated Jim. I never saw you before last night.”

“I’ll tell you what, Jim? I have to work in about an hour and a half. So, I want you to go into the hallway bathroom, shower, and get cleaned up. You stink.

“I have some clothes my ex left around here somewhere. You and Frank look to be about the same size. Although, you’re maybe a little bigger.

I’ll get them for you. Then, I’ll fix breakfast and run you to your car when you’re ready.”

“I don’t need a shower,” he protested.

“Oh, yes, you do,” she snarled. “Now get your ass in there now.”

Jim moaned, “A bossy little thing,” he thought.

Jim walked out of the bathroom twenty minutes later, feeling better. He could smell the coffee as he wandered to the house. Upon arriving at the kitchen, he saw Lydia cooking at the stove with her back turned toward her.

“She fills that nurse’s uniform out very nicely,” he thought. He turned to see the girl sitting at the foot of the steps on the front porch watching the kids play softball in the street.

He walked to the door, opened the glass screen door, peered at the little girl, and asked. “Why aren’t you out there playing? They’re about your age.”

“Ohhhh, they won’t let me play. I can’t catch, hit or throw.”

“Don’t you have anybody to teach, like an older brother or cousin, to guide you?”

Sighing and letting out a long sad breath, “My oldest brother is in the military, and my other one is a nerd. He hates sports, and my uncles and mother have all tried. I’m just too scared to play.”

Jim felt his heart breaking for the little girl. But he smiled and sat down next to her. “I taught my son to catch, hit and throw when no one else could. So, I can teach you?”

She turned and smiled. “Will you? You promise?”

I can’t promise you can catch, but I’ll try, and you will not get hit. How about next Saturday at nine o’clock? That’s if your mom will let me. By the way, my name is Jim. And yours is?”

“I’m Marie!” she replied with exuberance.

Jim stuck her hand out to shake hers. She placed her little hand into his, and both shook on the deal.

Lydia stood behind him, listening to his promises. Then, she surprised them when she announced his breakfast was ready for Jim.

Marie hopped up and ran to her mother. “Mama, he promised to teach me to play softball. Can he please? Please?” giving her the cutest look.

Lydia smiled at Marie and replied. “I’ll talk to Mr. Jim and let you know. Go ahead and get ready to go to Grandma’s house.” Marie stood there waiting on her answer. Now young lady, get going.”

Marie reached in and hugged her mother, and said, “I love you so much. Thanks.”

“Have a seat, Jim. How do you want your coffee?”

“Black, please,” Jim replied.

“Go ahead and dig in. I hope you like scrambled eggs. Unfortunately, I broke one of them and just decided to scramble them. Salt and pepper are on the table.” said Lydia.

Jim dug into the eggs. “After taking the first bite,” he replied. “They’re okay, and the coffee’s very good.

They sat there looking at each other when Lydia broke the silence. “Jim, I appreciate the offer to Marie. But don’t make her promises you’re not going to keep. She had enough heartache and disappointment from the men in her life—first her dad and then Pete. After them two left us, her oldest brother went off and joined the military. And she feels abandoned by all the men in her life.

Jim cut her off, “Listen, Lydia. I might be many things. But I’ve always kept my word when I give it. That included my marriage vows. I value loyalty and honesty above all other things.

“If I tell you, I’ll be here Saturday at 9. You can set your watch by. If I’m late, I’ll call. That means you need to give your phone number. But I can only stay until 12 because meeting up with my kids that afternoon. That’s my Saturday to see them. ”

Lydia replied with hope, “I’ll believe you till I see otherwise. Emily thinks very highly of you. So do my brothers and my dad.”

Jim looked at her with confusion. “I don’t know them, or at least I don’t think I know them.”

Lydia explained, “You know them. My youngest brother was the one that escorted the DA into your room, and my oldest brother was the lead investigator on your case.

“And Dad. He had recently been appointed to the bench. He was an assistant DA for years. And when a sitting judge recently passed away from a heart attack, the mayor appointed him as the replacement. He will serve out the rest of his term.

“Your case was first his as a sitting judge. He never talked about the case until after the trial started was over, but he was praying the jury would find you not guilty. He so badly wanted to let you go. But after the verdict came back guilty, he did everything he could to minimize the sentence to get you out earlier.

“My older brother said you checked out as a good guy, and if it were up to him, he would’ve buried the investigation, but it wasn’t. We spent many Sundays over dinner discussing the issue after the trial. Everyone found it appalling.

“Even that dipshit I was married to said he would have kicked his ass if he pulled that with me. I doubt he could have done it, but damn everyone woman wants to hear that her man would stand up for her. And that’s why I didn’t have a problem bringing you home. ”

Jim smiled and replied, “Well, thank your family for me. I appreciate the support.”

Lydia smiled. “Oh, by the way, the family court judge in your divorce case is good, and I mean, a very good friend of dads. If you get my drift.”

“I thought she was playing favorites and giving me the benefit of the doubt on all the rulings,” replied Jim. Tell your dad thanks for me.”

Taking another sip of coffee, “Tell me about this, Pete fellow. I see the sadness in your eyes every time his name is mentioned.”

Lydia’s eyes swelled, “He was a guy I had met soon after my divorce. I thought we were great together, but the boys gave him hell. They blamed me for the divorce and thought I should have forgiven their dad. But unfortunately, I’m not built way. I was betrayed and belittled in front of everyone I knew.”

“That sounds familiar,” chuckled Jim.

“Even if I could have forgiven him for that. He was still seeing that little slut from the office. He ran off with her, and we hadn’t heard from him since. So, all I have to say is Good Riddance!

“Steven was especially brutal with him; Peter couldn’t take the disrespect any longer. So we decided it would be for the best if we went our separate ways.” Jim watched as she wiped a tear from her eyes

Jim stood up from the table and took his dishes to the sink. “Lydia, thank you, I owe you for last night. And I promise I’ll be here next Saturday. Now if you tell me where I’m at, I’ll walk to my car. I’ll bring your clothes back next week.”

“Jim, I have to head out to work anyway. I’ll drop you at your car. Give me a few minutes to grab my things and Marie, and we’ll go.”

Xxxx

Next Saturday

9 o’clock sharp, Lydia’s doorbell rang, and an excited little girl squealed when she opened and saw Jim staring back at her.

“He’s here. He’s here, MOM!!! Mr. Jim is here.”

Lydia came around the corner to Jim standing on the porch. “Well, Honey, don’t just let him stand there.”

“Come in, Mr. Jim. I’ll hold the door for you,” said Marie.

Jim smiled and asked, “You ready, Marie?”

“Yes, sir, I’ve been ready all week.”

“Get your glove, and let’s head to the backyard. And by the end of today, you’ll be able to catch the ball like an old pro.”

Marie led Jim to the backyard.

As Jim walked by with a ball stuck on the end of a baseball bat, “What’s that?” asked Lydia.

Jim explained, “It was a device I came up with to teach my son glove placement and how to catch. It took me less than two hours to accomplish the task.

“Marie, I want you to stand there and listen to me. When you try the catch ball, you have to watch the ball into your glove. You’re liable to get hit in the face if you don’t.

Jim reached into his equipment bag, pulled out a girl’s youth softball, and explained, ” This ball was a U-ten and younger with a 3.5 inched diameter with a circumference of 11 inches, whereas a standard softball was 12 inches around.

Jim stood before her and held the ball in front of her face. “Marie, I want you to watch the ball, and don’t take your eyes off it.” Jim moved it around in front of her. Marie never took her eyes off of it.

After a minute of explaining his procedure, Jim picked up his bat with a softball screwed to the end of it. Jim explained, “Marie, I want you to put your glove out by your face, and I will slowly move the ball into the webbing. Then your squeeze the glove shut.

“Then you will move your glove around, and I will move the ball to the glove too. Then you close the web. Make sure you keep your eyes on the ball the whole time.”

Jim moved the ball back and forth for an hour, ensuring Marie had proper glove placement, trying to catch the ball.

He stopped and put the ballbat back into the bag.

“That was fun, Mr. Jim. Can we do it some more?” Jim chuckled at her enthusiasm.

Jim looked up when he heard Lydia’s voice call out, “Hey guys, I brought you some lemonade. How is it going, kiddo? Are you learning anything?

“Oh, it’s so fun, Momma. Mr. Jim is teaching me where and how to turn my glove to catch the ball. Oh, yeah, I almost forgot. Never take your eyes off the ball.”

Marie gulped down her cold refreshment and returned the glass to her mom. “I’m ready, Mr. Jim.”

Jim tipped his glass at the little girl and hurried down his beverage. Then, grabbing his head, “Marie panicked. Are you ok, Mr. Jim?”

He groaned, “Brain freeze.” Mother and daughter laughed.

Settling down, Jim started explaining his next lesson. “All balls are not going to be above the waste. They can come in low also.

So, I’ll move the ball to your waist and below for the next twenty minutes. Then, you just place your glove to where the ball goes.” And they did.

Jim took his ballbat, placed it in his bag, and took his glove out along with the softball. “Here, Marie, I’m going to throw you a few, and you catch them. I have to go see my kids this afternoon, so I only have a few minutes left to play before I have to go.”

Jim stood back and tossed her a slow outside, face high pitch, and Marie snagged it like a Golden Glove recipient. Marie squealed with excitement at her accomplishment.

Lydia came out the back door to see what the commotion was about, “What’s going on?” she asked.

“Look! I caught the first pitch he threw me. Can we do it again?”

Jim responded with a huge smile and replied, “Yes. Throw the ball back.”

Marie took the ball and swung her arm toward Jim, and the ball dropped two feet in front of her. She looked at the ball and started to tear up.”

Jim quickly broke in, “That’s my fault. I forgot you haven’t learned to throw yet. We’ll work on it next Saturday. I’ll have all day available to you, and we’ll work on your throwing and catching fly balls and grounders. But for now, why don’t we just meet halfway, and you hand me the ball?

Lydia watched as Marie caught every ball tossed at her. Jim looked at his watch. “Marie, I’m sorry I have to go. I have to meet up with my children in an hour.” But I promise I’ll be back next Saturday if it is ok with your mom.”

Lydia didn’t wait for Marie to ask, “We’ll be here. See you then. By the way, I’m planning on grilling some burgers for dinner. So, plan on staying. It’s the least I can do for you for coaching Maria.”

Next Saturday

During dinner, the three were sitting around the table.

Jim looked at Lydia and asked, “Why don’t I ever see your son around?”

Lydia pursed her lips, “Jim, don’t take this personally. He doesn’t like any man in this house, even if you’re helping his sister. I am sorry.” Lydia sighed in despair.

“Don’t be. I won’t take it personally,” replied Jim. “As soon as Marie is up to speed, I’ll move on.”

“NOOOO!” screamed Marie. “You can’t leave me; I need you.” Lydia started tearing up.

Jim smiled, “Marie, I’ll be here if you need me. You just call. I’ll come running. Besides, I think you’re ready.”

Sniffling, “Ready for what,” replied Marie.

I checked with the local Softball Association. They have the U8 girls’ softball league is starting next week. If you get permission from your mom. She can go online and register you. Then, you start practicing in two weeks.”

“Can I, Mom?! Can I?” begged Marie.

Lydia smiled at her daughter’s excitement and replied, “Yes, dear. I’ll sign you up.”

“Yeah!” yelled Maire. She got up, ran around the table, and jumped into Jim’s arms, wrapping her little arms around his neck and saying, “I love you, Mr. Jim.” Grunting, she squeezed harder.

Looking shocked, he slowly placed his arms around Marie and hugged her back. He closed his eyes as they swelled from the warm feeling of the little girls hugged; I love you two, sweet pea.”

Lydia’s eyes swelled at that moment because she started falling for the man.

For the next three weeks, Jim came by and coached his future Hall of Famer.

Friday night, the phone rang, “Hey girlfriend, It’s Emily.”

“Hey, Emily. Great to hear from you. What can I do for you?

“I was wondering. Have you seen Jim lately? He hasn’t been here in weeks.”

“I only see him when he comes here on Saturdays and coaches Marie. So why, what’s the matter?”

“Nothing that I know of, but he normally comes in three to four times a week. Or are you taking up his time?”

Lydia sighed and replied, “Nope, afraid not. He stays on Saturdays after working with Marie. We talk a little, and he leaves. He’s a pretty broken man. But your right about one thing.”

“What’s that?” replied Emily.

“I do like him. But he doesn’t show any interest in me at all.”

“I want to ask you a favor,” said Emily. “Keep an eye on him for me. He really is one of the good ones.”

“Sure, I’ll keep you informed.” Lydia hung up her phone. Chuckling, “That little bitch just wants me to be around him. And she’s right; I do like him. A lot.”

Saturday afternoon. Jim walked into the house after an afternoon of coaching to see Lydia sitting at the table reading.

Jim announced, “We’re through for today. I’ll catch you next week. She’s so excited about playing on a softball team that she can hardly contain herself.”

Lydia laid her book down, looked up at Jim, and smiled at Jim. I need a favor, Jim.”

“Well,” he replied. “I have one to ask also for a favor. You are first.”

Nervously biting her lower lip, she sighed. Then took a deep breath and quickly spoke. “Iwantyoutotakemetodinnernext— Friday night.” She stopped and waited for Jim to take it in.

He sat there, not replying.

She went on, “I know you don’t have a lot of money, so I was thinking Dutch—nothing romantic, just as friends. You can pick me up next Saturday night. What’s your favorite food?” Taking a drink of her pop, waiting on his reply.

“OOOkayyy. Now mine,” he replied. “They removed the restraining order. So I can now see the kids unsupervised.”

Lydia smirked(knowing why he got the restraining order removed) and replied, “That’s wonderful, Jim. So, you get to see your kids without being monitored.”

“It’s not as wonderful as you think. I live in a cheap one-bedroom apartment in a not-so-nice part of town. I have nowhere to take the kids; they can’t sleep in my apartment or be at my grandmother’s house anymore.

“Linda was being such a bitch. Even both sets of parents couldn’t tolerate it anymore, so they moved to Florida. They feel bad for the grandkids. But they couldn’t condone her new lifestyle with douche’ bag.

“On weekends, I stop by in the morning, and we spend the time I can with them. I usually sit in the car and wait for them to run out. So that limits my interactions with those two as much as possible.

“The only reason they removed the restraining order was that it was their way of getting the kids out of the house so they could do their thing.”

Lydia didn’t correct his assumption. “So, what’s the favor, Jim? What do you want me to do for you?”

Jim pursed his lips, “I was wondering if you would come to Willow Park tomorrow so my son Tommy can throw with Marie? He’s inaccurate with his pitches and throws a little harder than her teammates. I think it would help her with her play.”

Lydia smiled. “Jim, we’ll be there for you. Willow Park, that’s off Pacific and 132nd, right?”

“Yeah, that’s the one. Thanks.” He replied.

Xxxx

Sunday afternoon, Jim stood in a small field throwing the ball back and forth with his son, Tommy.

Jim looked up and saw Lydia walking toward him, waving with Marie running ahead. Lydia dressed in a yellow spaghetti strap Sundress. Through the outline of her dress, it was the first time he noticed her curvy figure.

“Mr. Jim, Mr. Jim, we’re here,” Marie enthusiastically declared to the whole park. Tommy stood there in shock at her screaming.

“Come here, Marie,” Chuckled Jim, “I want to introduce you two to my son Tommy. Tommy, this is Mrs. Lawson.

Tommy stuck his hand out to shake Lydia’s, “Hello. Nice to meet you.”

Lydia smiled, “Well, aren’t you a gentleman? It’s nice to meet you, Tommy. Your dad didn’t tell me you were so handsome, Tommy blushed. “By the way, you can call me Lydia.”

Jim interrupted, “No, he can’t. You can call her Mrs. Lawson or Ms. Lydia.”

Marie jumped in front of her mother and stuck her hand out, and spoke. “Hi, I’m Marie.” Tommy jerked his hand back and did a slight wave at her.

Marie looked up at Jim and took off her new ball cap. “Look, Mr. Jim, my team’s new ball cap. I’m a Giant now.”

Jim took it into his hands, smiled, looked at it, and placed it back on her head. Then, he jerked the cap bill over her eyes, “I guess I’m a Giants fan now.”

She pulled it back over her eyes and asked, “Will you come to one of my games? We play our first game in three weeks?”

Jim nodded and replied to her request, “I’ll be there. Just let me know the time and date. Now you go out with Tommy, and you two throw for a while. Looking over at Tommy, “She’s new to playing. Don’t throw it too hard.”

“Yes, sir, I won’t.” So, they headed out to the field.

He turned to Lydia, “Come on, I’ll introduce you to my daughter, Emma.” As they walked toward Emma, Jim sighed. “I don’t know what’s going on, but she has to be one of the unhappiest little girls in the world. So, I’m warning you don’t expect a warm welcome from her.”

“Emma, this is a friend of mine, Marie’s Mom.” Emma looked up from her phone, staring at them through her purple bangs. And scoffed and went back to her phone.

Suddenly both heard a loud little girl scream. They turned to see Marie on her knees, crying. Jim and Lydia took off toward Marie.

“Dad, Dad, I swear I didn’t throw the ball hard. I swear she turned her head just as I released it. She looked over when someone yelled. I yelled for her to look out. By the time she looked back, it was too late. I’m sorry.”

Jim pushed him away and replied gruffly, “Get away from her, “Tommy.”

Tommy started tearing up, trying to explain to his dad, “I didn’t mean to hit her.”

Lydia grabbed Tommy and pulled him back. Bending down in front of him. He started wiping the tears from his eyes with the palm of his hands.”

Lydia smiled motherly; “It’s ok, Tommy, it was an accident. Jim is worried about Marie.” She pulled him to her for a comforting hug. She noticed Tommy was in no hurry to release her.

Jim helped Marie stand up as she cried. “Let me see Marie. Take your hand from your eye, and let me take a look.”

“No, no.” she whimpered. “I don’t want to play no more. I want to go home, Momma.”

Jim stood up and towered over her. “No, you’re not young, lady. You’re staying right here. You can’t quit whenever your feelings get hurt. And when life smacks you in the face and gives you black eyes.

“If you quit now, then leaving gets easier and easier every time it happens. Pretty soon, you’ll stay in your room, and life will pass you by. Look at all the fun you’ll miss out on.

“Life is too short, honey. You don’t want to miss one moment of it. Look at all the life experiences you’ll miss out on. Making new friends. Not knowing what it feels like to win and lose a ball game. Yes, even losing is good for you. It helps you learn to overcome obstacles placed in front of you.

“You’re going to get hurt playing softball and in life. So, you pick yourself up, dust yourself off, get mad, and become even more determined that nothing makes you quit.”

“How’s the pain now?” he asked.

Sobbing, “It’s not as bad.” she replied.

“It’ll be over before you know it, and it won’t even be a memory. Let me take a looked at that eye.” Jim closely examined it and started laughing, “Oh, young lady. You’re going to have a beautiful black eye at school Monday.”

She smiled started and replied,” Really! I always wanted one of those. I can’t wait to show it to my classmates. Look, Momma, I got a black eye.”

Lydia laughed, “I see it, honey; it’ll be a beauty. We’ll put some ice on it when we get home.”

Lydia leaned over to Jim and whispered, “I’m sure I’ll be getting a call from the school tomorrow questioning what happened.”

Jim looked at Tommy.” It’s ok, son, it was an accident.” Marie. What do I always tell you?

“I know, I know.” she sighed.

She and Tommy replied at the same time, “Keep your eyes on the ball.”

“You two walk over there and stand next to each other. I’ll throw the ball to the both of you for a while.”

Lydia watched for a moment to ensure Marie was ok and headed toward Emma.

Lydia sat next to her so she could keep an eye on Marie.

Emma asked, “Are you fucking my dad?”

Lydia spat out the Diet Coke she was drinking thru her nose. “What did she say?” as she choked.

Emma stared at Lydia, waiting for her answer. “Oh, come on. Us women can tell.” I see how you look at him.”

Lydia chuckles inside. “No, I have not,” replied Lydia. “And yes, I like him as a friend. Your dad is quite a remarkable man.”

“It must not be too remarkable. Mom says he couldn’t get over his little snit, or she would have let him move home. She told me the other day she would dump Marc in a heartbeat and forgive Dad if he came home.”

Lydia listened intently to the bullshit Linda fed her child. Then, she carefully pursed her words in her reply, “I like your father. No, we haven’t dated, kissed, or been intimate. But I think what is happening in your family should be your and your parent’s business.

“We’ve become friends, well, sort of. When you become a parent, you’ll learn that you will like anyone who treats your kids kindly.” She stopped, hoping it wouldn’t go any further.

After silence, Lydia continued, “But if you need a friend, I’m a good listener. Finally, Lydia turned to watch the kids, and Jim threw the ball back and forth.

A few minutes later, “I know what they did to my father. “They think I’m stupid.

I’m a nerd. I can find things on the web. Especially after you hear every one of the girls in school laughing behind your back that your mom’s a slut. And all boys want me to do is get a signed autograph of their God, the asshat Marc LaValliere.

“Mom told me my dad got mad at us and left one day. Of course, we loved Dad, and we missed him. But, as bad as I felt, Tommy suffered more. He Idealized our father.

“We couldn’t see our grandparents anymore because they always fought with her; Mom seemed mad at everybody.

“After my grandparents quit coming over, Tommy felt all alone. At first, I liked Marc. He was pleasant and treated us great. We got to travel and go on fantastic trips all the time. Eventually, we moved into his house, or should I say mansion.

We got to go to ball games as his guest; They had a VIP booth for the players’ families. So, it is exciting to sit with rich people. Unfortunately, he wanted us to call him Dad. We couldn’t do it. He was nothing like our dad.

“Mom got furious about that and screamed and yelled at us. Finally, Marc stopped her, and he said he understood.

“When I was about eleven, I started noticing comments about my Mom at games about what she did to my Dad. I wasn’t sure what most of it meant at the time.

“When I turned twelve, I started middle school. Then, I heard more about my mom and Marc behind my back from those fake bitches at school.

“I read everything I could find online about what happened to my dad. I couldn’t believe it. No wonder my dad hated us, or at least I thought that. I decided not to tell Tommy. He wouldn’t have understood anyway. I hate to think when he gets older and hears this about Mom from his friends.

“When we heard about having to see Dad, Mom said the court said we had to, and she couldn’t stop it. We were scared of him when we first saw him. We thought he still hated us. We felt at the time the courts were making him do it.

“The Social Worker and a policeman were with us the first few times. We were terrified the first time we met him. But we were surprised after we saw him tear up and stick out his hand to introduce himself. Dad had gotten down on his knees and grabbed us crying, telling us how much he loved us and missed us. It took us a few times after that to get reacquainted.

“I later discussed it with Tommy, and he agreed Mom had not been honest with us. Our dad was just like we remembered. But he looked really old and tired. But lately, he seems a lot better.

Lydia turned back around to see Emma in a 1000-mile stare. Emma continued, “I hate them.” Lydia took Emma’s hands as Emma spoke. “They weren’t happy about the judge allowing visitation.

“The first Wednesday he came to visit, they were cruel. Mom went down the stairs in a blue dress. And when Dad saw her, he took off, ran into the bathroom, and threw up. After that, all she did was laugh at him.

“Later, all his friends showed up to go out dancing. They snickered, laughed, and called him a cuckold.

“Dee was laughing the loudest, along with the women’s husbands. Only Jane looked at him with pity. She knocked on the bathroom door and asked if he was ok. He asked her to go away.

“I was awake that night when they came home. It was around one. I snuck out of my room and stood around the corner of the hallway when Marc and Mom came in. She laughed and asked if he wanted to join them in the bedroom. Dad squeezed his fist, and his face went beet red. I thought he was going to hit them.

“I can’t go to the pool when Marc’s friends are over. So, I’m basically a prisoner in my room. They stare at me and whisper. They’re a bunch of pervs.”

Lydia’s hair bristled on the back of her neck. She asked, “Has anyone ever touched you inappropriately?”

“No, they haven’t. Marc has made it quite clear if anyone looks at me sideways, he’d kill them.”

Lydia took her hands, “If anyone ever touches you, come to me first; my brothers are cops. And not because I don’t want your father to know. He has a hair-trigger temper right now. And without waiting for any information, he’ll go after them. So, for now, come to me, then I’ll go to your father. We don’t want Jim to end up in prison again.

“My brothers are cops. And we’ll go to them. And for God’s sake, don’t you dare make a false accusation. Because if it happens for real, and you lied about it before, no one will believe you. Also, just between us women, men will stare at you when you’re beautiful as we are.”

“I’m not beautiful,” Emma sighed, “I’m a computer geek.”

There is nothing wrong with geeks; my son Steven is one. He is a big-time gamer.”

“Yeah, what games does he play,” asked Emma, as she cracked a small smile.

Lydia shook her head and replied, “I have no clue what he plays, but he’s a great computer geek.”

“I like to meet him,” Emma replied. “And woman to woman, my dad likes you too.

“Can I ask you what happened to my mom? I remember when they were married, and she loved him to death. What changed in my mom?

“I don’t know, Honey. All I know is your dad is a great guy; Maybe someday you can figure it out, she replied in a sympathetic voice. I’ll tell you what. I’ll give you my cell phone number. I’m here for you anytime you want to talk.

“Well, as soon as I’m 14, I will ask Uncle LW to help me go live with my dad.

“Hey ladies,” yelled Jim, anybody up for pizza? I’m buying.”

Marie approached them as they returned to the cars and asked, “Momma, can I ride with Tommy?”

Lydia inspected her little girl’s shiner, slowly developing in her eye, “Yes, dear. If it’s ok with Mr. Jim.”

“You can ride with us,” he replied. The parents looked over to see the anguish come across Tommy’s face as he groaned.

“I’ll take Emma with me,” said Lydia as they were near the parking lot.

Jim was curious and asked, “I saw you two talking. Anything particular.”

She replied with a deadpan look, “No, nothing particular. She asked me if I fucked you yet.”

Jim’s eyes popped open, “I’m so sorry. I’ll have a talk with that young lady. I taught her better than that.”

“Don’t you dare snapped Lydia.” She needs a friend—someone with whom she can convey her deepest thoughts and emotions.

“Or would you rather it be some older boy? Jim, I want to be her friend. Please don’t say a word to her about this. I know it was woman-to-woman talk. But I can tell you this; she needs to see a counselor.”

“Tommy needs one too, Jim,” sighed Lydia, “maybe even more.” When I hugged him, he didn’t want to let go. It was like he was craven affection.

Emma can verbalize herself. I don’t know Tommy well enough, and I could be wrong, but I can feel it as a mother. So please don’t chance it, Jim. Get him help.”

Jim ran her hand threw his hair. He took a big gulp of air and slowly blew it out,” I get them to help

Arriving at the cars,” Let’s meet at Pasquale’s Pizza in Sinclair. And thanks for looking out after her.”

Xxxx

After dinner the following Friday night. Lydia handed Jim a beer and sat cozying up next to Jim to talk. As the night went on, she kept shifting closer to Jim, pinning him against the armrest of the davenport.

She leaned over to kiss Jim when she looked up to see Steven angrily staring at her. He huffed, turned, and headed toward the kitchen.

Pots started slamming around. With disappointment in her voice, “Excuse me, Jim. I need to see what’s going on. Please don’t go anywhere. I’ll be right.”

“Steven, what are you doing?” asked Lydia.

“What’s that douchebag doing here?” snarled Steven.

Lydia begged, “SSSSHHHHHH, he might hear you.”

“I don’t give a fuck. We don’t need him, mon. I’ll take care of you. If you need sex, Mom, call Dad and beg him to return. Besides, that asshole is probably molesting Marie. You don’t see it, Mom.”

Slap! came from the kitchen. Fuck you, Mom,” yelled Steven as he ran out the kitchen door.

Lydia looked up with tears streaming from her eyes to see a sympathetic Jim staring back at her.

He said, “I better be going. Call me when Marie has her first game.”

“Jim, don’t go,” she quietly yelled as she heard the front door open and close.

Xxxx

Monday Morning, Lydia’s phone rang. Lydia. It’s Jim.”

“Hey, Jim. Great to hear from you. Marie missed you this weekend.”

“I missed her too,” he replied in a very monotone voice. “I need to ask you a favor.”

“Yeah, sure. What do you need?” Questioned Lydia.

“You helped Emma last week. I want to pick up Steven after school this afternoon. I think I can help him with his anger issue. If you can trust me, I have an idea that should take care of the problem.”

Hesitantly she replied. “He gets out a three. Do you know what school he attends?”

“Yea, I believe I heard you say it’s Westside High School.”

I’ll call the school and have them tell Steven that I will give him a ride and pick him up at 3:30 this afternoon, but instead, you’ll pick him up.”

That afternoon all the cars had come and gone from the lot when Jim pulled and rolled down the passenger side window.

“What are you doing here, asshole? Picking up little girls,” snorted Steven.

Jim looked at him. He wanted so badly to get out of his car and spank the petulant lad. “I’ll make you a deal if you go with me. I’ll promise I’ll never see your mother except to watch her sister’s softball games. I promised her to do that already,” explained Jim. “Deal?”

“How do I know you’ll keep your word?”

“I’ve never broken my word in my life after I grew up to be a man,” snapped Jim. “A real man never breaks his word. Ask anybody I know. If I tell you I’ll do something, I will,” Jim barked at him.

Steven grabbed the door and got in. It was a quiet ride.

“What’s this place?” asked Steven.

“It’s a friend of mine’s home,” replied Jim. “You’ll like her. She’s an old friend of the family.” They drove past the sign that displayed the Shady Grove Retirement Community.

Jim and Steven walked into a large room full of elderly retirees. He looked around the room until he saw the lady he was looking for. She was looking out the back window staring at the trees blowing in the slight breeze.

Jim walked behind her and quietly said, “Hey, Mrs. Polly. How are you doing?”

She snapped out of her daze with a startled look. And then the biggest smile came across your face. “Jim, you scared me. You almost gave me a heart attack. Now get down here and hug an old woman.”

Jim reached down, hugged, and kissed Polly on the cheek.”

“Oh, Jim, you snuck that kiss in there, didn’t you? You old dog,” Polly said with a gleaming smile.

“Yes, I did. Maybe you’d like to have one on your lips,” chuckled Jim.

“I would love it, but I doubt that wife of yours probably would like it,” she giggled.

“I’ll divorce her, come get you, and we’ll elope,” teased Jim.

“I love to, but we have pudding tonight,” Jim chuckled.

“Speaking of your wife. Where’s Linda? She’s such a lovely soul. I really like her. You did well, Jim, when you married that girl.——–You better make sure you keep ahold of her; she’s one in a million.

“I know a lot of other men who would love to have her. But I always knew she would make you a wonderful wife and a great mother for your children.”

“She’s doing fine, Miss Polly. I’ll tell her what you said,” smiled Jim. Steven stood watching Jim interact with his friend.

Miss Pearl looked up at the tall, handsome boy watching their interactions. Jim, who is this, Tommy? He’s grown up to be a good-looking young man. Oh, if I was only 50 years younger.” Steven blushed.

Jim chuckled at Steven’s discomfort. “Miss Pearl, I want to introduce you to a friend of mine’s son, Steven. I was taking him home when I decided to swing by and say hello.”

“Please, Steven sits down next to me,” she said. Patting the cushion on the davenport, indicating where she would like Steven to sit. He hesitantly sat down.

She took his hand, turned to him, and said, “You have beautiful eyes, young man. They’re so blue and remind me of my grandson’s eyes.

Smiling, “But you know what?” I have three granddaughters; I think they would like you too. They’re your age.”

Tommy asked. “What’re their names, and where do they go to school? Then, I might know them.”

She smiled, “No honey, you wouldn’t. They don’t live around here anymore.”

“How do they visit you if they don’t?” he asked

“They don’t. Over the years, their parents moved away, and I stayed here. So, the only visitors I get from time to time are the nieces and nephews. All my sisters and brothers have passed away, but their kids come by occasionally, and we visit.”

“How could they leave you like that? You’re their mother,” an outraged Steven replied. “I would visit my mother every day.”

She sighed, “Steven, my husband, passed away when I was in my early 40’s, and he was 55. He was a great husband and father and my best friend. And my kids were outraged when I tried to bring someone else into our lives. It was so bad I eventually gave up. I dated at times but had to do it behind their backs. It was easier than fighting them.

“My boys told me they would always take care of me. I didn’t need anyone else but them. So for the last 20 years, I have been by myself.” Steven could see the loneliness in her eyes.

She continued her story, “When It came time that I couldn’t take care of myself, they put me here. I had been sick for a while and couldn’t live alone.

“Don’t get me wrong; this is an excellent place to live but not my home. But, nevertheless, they all promised to visit me, take me to their homes for the holidays, and on vacations with them. And all the Grandkids vowed to see me once a week.

“But over time, they grew and broadened their horizons. And to tell you bluntly, they’ve forgotten me except for the occasional card for Christmas and my birthday. Other than those times, I never hear from them. Out of sight our mind,”

Incensed at this, Steven asked, “Well, what about your children, their parents? Where are they? Why aren’t they here more?”

“Honey, I told you earlier. They moved as they got older, were promoted in their jobs, and were forced to move.”

“One’s a surgeon at John Hopkins Hospital. One’s a CEO of a company out West. My daughter married an officer in the military. They are get stationed all over the world.

“I raised my children to take care of themselves and their families. It’s not their job to take care of me. You’ll understand when you grow up and have children of your own. Now look around and tell me what you see.”

Steven glanced around and studied the room, “Well, Miss Polly, I see a TV….”

“No, Steven, the people. Tell me about the people. Well, a bunch of people like you. Mostly ladies but a few men.”

“Yes, Steven, you are correct. This is where people come to sit and die.” Steven winced when she said that.

“Most of us could be at home if we were still married. Then, if we fell, our companions could get us help. We could have nurses come in daily to check up on our welfare. But if we have an emergency and fall unconscious, our mates could call 911.

“Look at their faces, Steven. They’re all lonely. We all look forward to the holidays to share grand and great-grandkids with each other. But they eventually leave, and we’re back to being alone.

“If you go to the other wing, it is for married residents. Look at the difference in how they act. We are pretty much the same age. But they act years younger. The loneliness is terrible sometimes, and I wish I wouldn’t wake up in the morning sometimes.

Steven’s eyes started to water. She turned to Jim, “Jim, I hate for you to go, but the cafeteria is about to start serving dinner. They’ll run out of pudding if I don’t arrive early.”

She turned and gave Steven a small, motherly smile, “Come by and see me some time. I’m not going anywhere. Now could you make my day and hug an old woman?”

Steven reached over and reached around her. She felt so frail, wrapped in his arms. She hugged him harder than he did. She reminded him of his grandmothers,

She turned to Jim,” Now, your turn. He bent over and gave her another hug. Then, he turned, gave her a quick peck on the lips, and pulled away with a mischievous grin.

“Young man, wait till I see your mother. She then winked at him. “Only,” she said.

Xxxx

It was a quiet walk back to the car. Jim pulled out of the parking lot, heading toward Steven’s home. Steven asked. “Why didn’t you tell her you divorced your wife?”

Jim sighed. “She is a lifelong family friend of my grandmother. She thought Linda walked on water; There was no reason to ruin her vision of Linda. It wouldn’t have accomplished anything but destroy fond memories of an old woman. No matter how much I despise my EX, I couldn’t do it to her.” It went quiet again.

From the side of his eyes, Jim could see the cogs in Steven’s brain turning and turning.

With a deadpan look, Stephen asked, “Why did she do it? Linda, I mean, why did she do it to you?”

Taking a deep breath, Jim replied, “That will remain one of the mysteries of life. I’ve talked to people a whole lot smarter than me. Even my counselor couldn’t understand it. But, of course, she might have been under peer pressure from her friend; I don’t know. I don’t have a clue.”

“Did she love you?” Steven asked.

“Who knows? I used to think she did. She said she did up until I caught her with him again. I guess I’ll have to ask God if I get to go there.”

“Do you still love her?” Steven required.

“No, not anymore, she killed it,” Silence rang loudly through the car as they drove further.

The silence was again broken when Jim heard Steven say, “My dad did that to my mom. I mean, he did the same thing your ex-wife did.

Jim didn’t reply.

“I wanted them back together. My dad was my hero. Whatever he did, I felt it was my mom’s fault. And she should have forgiven him, and we would be a family again. I started to get snippets of what happened that night they went out. It took some time, but I finally figured it out. Grownups think kids are stupid.

“I used to hear my mom crying in her bedroom late at night. I swear that no one would ever hurt her again. I would protect her from any asshole that ever came near her. But I guess I was wrong.” Looking at Jim for approval.

Jim ran his hand through his hair. “I think so; you misinterpreted what she wanted. She was hurt and humiliated by someone she thought she could trust with her life.

“Also, the realization of her poor choice of a man she thought she wanted as the father of her children and a lifelong partner was shattered.

“The only thing that can heal is time and let another person replace those bad memories. Trust me; I’ve been there and done that.

“It’s not your job to protect your mother from that. Physically defend her, but not who she chooses to be with, not even if he’s an asshole.

“There are a lot of good men out there for Lydia to choose from. Your mother is a beautiful woman and has a great personality. She is intelligent and witty, to boot. She’ll do fine.

“Heck, she seems to have liked that guy named Peter. So maybe there is still a chance for her.”

They approached Stevens’s neighborhood. Steven turned to Jim, “I heard you kicked Marc Lavalliere’s ass.” Jim smiled.

“Someone should have kicked my dad’s,” remarked Steven.

Pulling up to the drive, Steven pulled the door handle to get out and asked, “Are you coming in?”

Jim shook his head and replied, “Do you remember the promise I made? Tell Marie I said hi, and to call me so I can come to see her first game.”

“Mr. Carlisle, you’re ok,” Stephen said as he exited.

Lydia turned from washing dishes to see Steven standing, staring at her. She saw him tear up and move toward her for a hug. “Mom, I’m so sorry, he began crying; I didn’t understand.”

It was the first time he had cried since his mom’s divorce. He was sobbing deeply on her shoulder.

“Shhhh, it’s Ok, honey,” Lydia sympathized with her son’s pain.

“I’m so sorry that asshole hurt you. I hate Dad.”

“No, you don’t. He’s your dad. And he loves….

“Bullshit! Mom,” interrupted Steve. “What kind of parent would do what he did if he loved his kids.” Then, still sobbing, he pulled away from his mom.

Lydia reached up, taking his head in her hands, and bent him over. She gave him a motherly kiss on the lips. “I love you, Steven. Now get ready to eat. I put yours in the oven.”

As he turned to walk away, he stopped, looked at his mom, and said, “Jim’s an alright dude.”

She looked around and asked, “Where’s Jim?”

“He made me a promise. He promised me he wouldn’t see you again if I agreed to go with him. I thought at the time it was a win for you and me. I’m not so sure now.”

He turned to walk out, then stopped. “Mom, I don’t want you to be lonely anymore.” He saw the sadness in her eyes after Jim hadn’t come in to see her.

Xxxx

Jim’s phone rang to see Marie’s name pop up. “Hey, sweetie. How are you doing?”

I have my first ball game Saturday afternoon. You said you’d come.” She excitedly conveyed.

What position are you going to play?” he asked.

“All of them. They want us to play all of them for now. Later when we figure out who is the best at which position, they will let us play there.”

“I promise I’ll be there,” he said.

Saturday afternoon, Jim stood behind the left field waving to Marie as she took the field for the first time. He swelled with pride as if it was his daughter playing. She waved back and then turned as they threw the first pitch.

The game had changed since he played youth ball. Now everyone batted whether they were in the game or not, which is good. You’ll never improve if you don’t get to hit during a game.

He didn’t like that they didn’t keep score, but he reckoned at seven years old, it didn’t matter anyway. But it is in human nature to compete. So they’ll keep their score whether the parents do it or not: His son did.

He watched Marie get her first hit and catch her first pop-up. After that, all the fans looked out behind the fence to see and hear Jim whooping, hollering, and whistling from where he stood whenever Marie was involved in the play.”

“Excuse me,” Jim heard come from behind him. Startled, he pivoted, ready to fight. Behind stood three large me staring at him. “Whoa,” the eldest said. “We want to introduce ourselves.”

“I think I know you two, but not you.” Pointing to what appeared to be the youngest. “Oh, now I remember Jim continued, “You were the judge at my assault trial. And you testified at the trial.” You were the lead investigator for my case. Turning to the third. Sorry, don’t you know you? Do I?”

“No,” the youngest replied. “I suppose you wouldn’t. You were still pretty drugged up when the DA came in and told you were under arrest. I think he thought you were crazy and needed my protection from a man that just came out of a coma, handcuffed to the bed. I thought it was pretty stupid, myself.”

The oldest one stepped up and stuck out his hand, “If you don’t remember my name, I’m Joseph Carr. My oldest Is Joe Jr. He answers Lotty. And the one you were talking to is my youngest, William. He likes to be called Bill.

They all shook hands. Jim looked puzzled by their presence and asked, “Why are you here?”

The judge replied.” We’re here watching my granddaughter’s first Softball game.”

“Oh, yeah,” Jim replied. “Which one is she?” pointing to the field.

“Her name is Marie,” Mr. Carr replied.

“I’m here watching a friend of mine’s daughter. Her name is Marie also. So, they must have two Maries on the team. “The one I’m watching his…..,” his voice trailed off.

He turned to see them grinning back at him, “Let me guess,” said Jim. “Her mom is named Lydia.”

They all nodded. The old man started the conversation. “I’m here to thank you for helping Steven. Next to my daughter, he took it the hardest when his dad left.

“He wouldn’t discuss it with anyone, and we never saw him grieve over it. Instead, he lashed out at Lydia, blaming her for the breakup.

“We saw his smile for the first time this week when he came to our house. So again, we all want to thank you.

To tell you the truth, we were afraid we’d lose the boy. I don’t know how you did it, but it worked big time. He’s done a complete 180 with his attitude, and he is now reengaging with the family.”

Jim nodded. “I think he’ll be ok now. Glad I could help.”

Michael smiled, “Marie thinks you walk on water, and she always talks about you. Mr. Jim taught me this. Mr. Jim taught me that.”

“Well,” Jim replied, “I owe her more than she owes me. I think she saved my life. I was pretty down after the trial and divorce. Plus, I guess I never got over the betrayal of that night many years ago. Then I had to fight like hell just to see my kids. It’s been a nightmare.

“Marie gave me something to look forward to in my life. Before her, I had gone down a pretty dark road, and I didn’t see any way back until she came into it.”

Mr. Carr spoke, “We’re all here for you. But, just between you and me, the court is waiting for LaValliere to do something stupid, and we will pull an OJ on his ass.”

“I talk to all my friends and colleagues, and everyone thinks you’re a hell of a man, Jim. We’re all surprised you didn’t kill them both. That day when the verdict came back, I was praying they would find you not guilty through jury nullification.

“I was so prepared to let you ass walk. I thought with LW as your attorney, he could pull it off. But unfortunately, it looks like we had too many closet cucks on the jury that day.

Lotty spoke. “Jim, I tried my best to minimize that report in your favor. But it was what it was. I drugged my feet, hoping they would let you slide with your injuries. And I couldn’t lie for you on the stand when it came to testifying. But anytime you need someone to have your back, you let Bill and me know, and we’ll be there for you with another 1000 of my comrades.

“I hope you didn’t mind?” asked Mr. Carr. “But I interceded on your behalf with the family court Judge assigned to your problem seeing your children.

“Lydia approached me with your problem and thought your ex was screwing you. The judge owed me a big favor. So, I called it in.

Oh, don’t get me wrong, if the investigation had shown you were not the man and father, we thought you were, you wouldn’t have gotten your kids with unsupervised visits back for a very long time. But I didn’t make her change it. All I had asked her was to fast-track your case, and that’s all.”

Jim smiled, reached over, and grabbed Mr. Carr’s hand. Then, Jim vigorously gave him a two-handed hand, thanking them all.

“Hey, Mr. Jim,” screamed Marie. “Did you see me? I caught every ball hit to me.” She ran right by her grandfather and uncles and jumped into his arms. Behind her followed Lydia.

“Well,” said Bill, “We see where we stand.”

“Yes, I did,” Jim replied. “Marie, you were great.”

“Honey, go run over to Grandmother,” said Lydia. “I’ll be there in a minute.”

Marie got down out of Jim’s arms. “Goodbye, Mr. Jim; see you later.”

As She turned and ran to Grandmother, she said, “Hey, Granddad, Uncle Lotty, and Uncle Bill.

Lotty turned to his father and said, “So, I guess we’re just chopped liver.”

Lydia watched Marie run toward her mother. She turned to Jim. SLAP!

Jim’s hand grabbed his cheek in shock.

Lydia got into his grille and growled, “You damn coward. Was that bullshit you fed my daughter?”

Jim was trying to figure out what the hell was going on. Then, rubbing his cheek, Jim asked,” What are you talking about?”

“What I’m talking about?” she snarled.” That bullshit you fed Marie.” Jim started to talk. “Shut up, Jim. You’re stupid to answer it.”

“You know the part where you get slapped in the face and knocked down. But then, you pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep going. Or was it the part where you told Marie if she quit now, how could she miss out on the best thing that ever happened to her?

“Or was the part where you never quit? Instead, you hop back on the horse and keep riding; You said you could get hurt again, but the pain will disappear if you replace it with good memories.

“Well, you’re just about to the point where you’re about to lose out on the best memory you will ever have. Me.”

Jim started to talk,” Shut up, Jim, you’re too stupid to talk. Wait till I’m finished.”

“If you’re never going to use that thing between your legs, I want it. So, I’ll cut it off, bronze it, and stick it on the fireplace mantle at home.

“Jim started to talk, and Lydia gave him the LOOK. All men know the one. And damn, she had perfected it to a Tee. So, he thought better than to talk.

“This is what will happen if you want to keep those nuggets. Friday night you’ll pick me up at my place at 7. I’m driving.

“I’m taking you to dinner first, so you’ll have plenty of fuel to keep your strength up. It’s going to be a long night; you’ll need it. And then we’re going to go dancing, where I’m going to grope you and whisper disgusting things in your ears.

“After that, I’ll probably get up, go to the bathroom, and remove my undies. When I return to the table, I’ll put them in your hand for safekeeping. Then I’ll make sure everyone knows I took them off.

Since I’m paying for everything, you will put it out for the next 12 hours after we get to my place. So, you better bring your A-Game, Mr.

She stepped back and glared at Jim as she walked away. Then, she turned to her daddy and said, “Hey, Daddy; see you at the house tomorrow for dinner. Lotty, Bill.

Turning back to Jim, “If you need a babysitter, my sister-in-law volunteered.”

As she walked off, glaring at him. She raised her hand, made a scissor-cutting move, and mouthed snip.

Jim turned and stared at the men in front of him. Then, he said, “I don’t know whether to be terrified or turned on.”

Her father stepped back, throwing his hands up, “Don’t look at us; we only get involved after the body’s mutilated.” They turned, yucking it up at his expense as they walked away.

Xxxx

Jim rolled off, panting heavily, begging, “No, Mas! No Mas! I give up. You win.

Basking in the warm glow, “I did. Six times,” Lydia replied.

Jim rolled over and watched her as she recovered. Lydia turned to see Jim’s eyes wanting to ask her something, but he was too scared. Lydia turned and faced Jim.

Studying him, she ran her hand to his face and slowly stroked his cheek. He grabbed it, nestled his face into the hand, and kissed her palm.

She smiled and spoke, “Last night was the greatest night of my life. I’ll look back at this night with fond memories when I’m old. Jim, you’re an accomplished lover. You played me like a Stradivarius. You were domineering when you needed to control me and gentle when I needed it.”

She smiled, “Is that pretty much what she told you?” Jim nodded in the affirmative.

“Jim, I can’t remember the last time I came six times in one night. If I’m not mistaken, you came three, right?

Jim nodded again, yes.

“If we stay together. I and I pray to God we do. We’ll never have the experience of each other for the first time again. I don’t know about you, but I’ve been going out of my mind all week with sexual desire thinking about sex with you. And I played every possible scenario of how you would take me.

“I was ready for you the second you picked me up. When we danced, I forgot everything in the world except how you’d feel inside me for the first time. How your touch would caress would feel. The different positions you would take me in.

“As we danced, you pulled me close to you. I could feel how you responded to my touch. When you finally pulled me closer, you relaxed and took me as your own. I was ready. When I left you and headed to the restroom was practically screaming inside with lust.

“When I returned and handed you my soaked thong, I swear I came when you took them to your face and took a deep breath. Your face turned to lust.

“All the way home, you rubbed my inner thigh. I spread my legs, practically begging you to finger me. I grabbed and hand, but you wouldn’t touch me. Finally, I started trying to do it myself. You took my hand and kissed it. Saying not to we get home. I was beyond excited. I became insatiable.

“I came the second you licked my pussy. It wasn’t just a quick orgasm. It was one of those leg-shaking, whole-body trembling eruptions. I don’t know how long it lasted. It seemed like an eternity.

“We will continue to have mind-blowing sex until it turns into routine and comfort sex, and in between those, just fucking. But never the first time again.

“That was what Linda felt. It was my first-time experience. And with that, no husband can compete, or wife. Wait till Linda has sex with Marc night after night, and he’s gone through his repertoire a dozen times. Then, it will become routine sex.

“That’s when it will hit her; Marc is no different from you. But I can tell you he’s not half the man you are in my eyes. And believe me; she will discover that also. She said it in her letter and will be reinforced in time.

“That’s why she’s so angry and punishing you. In her mind, she loves you, and you were just supposed to forget this one event, and both of you would have gone back to how it was before. Or that is what she told herself. Any rational person would have done exactly what you did. Hell, it was what I did to my ex.

“Jim, I know I’m older and less attractive than Linda, but I’ll love you and give you something she can never provide you. It is as essential to a man, even more so than sex. It is respect.” She smiled while waiting on his reply.

He smiled and said, “Thanks, I really needed to hear that. You made me feel like a man again. I feel like a boulder has been removed from my chest. I feel alive. I can breathe.

“What I’m scared of is that she’ll realize that one day. And I’m afraid she’ll come unglued and take it out on the kids as she did on me.

“But I have a problem. And I don’t know how much time I can spend with you in the future.” Lydia looked worried. Linda asked me to watch the kids for three months while Marc and her cruise the Caribbean. They are leaving this Monday and won’t be back till Labor Day.

“As you know, I can’t use my apartment because it is a one-bedroom in a rough part of town. I can’t use my old house because she’s renting it out. And I don’t have the money to fight her in court. So, as a matter of fact, I don’t have much money to do anything.

“So, they offered me to stay at Marc’s and watch the kids while they’re gone. They l even offered to let me sleep in their bed, Which I refused, so I’m sleeping in the maid’s quarters.

Lydia’s eyes popped open, and she sneered, “Really, in Marc’s bed. They’re a couple of ass-wipes.”

Jim sighed, “Since the kids will be out of school, I’ll have to go home and take care of them as soon as I get off work. But the bright side is I’ll get to spend a lot of time with them.

I don’t know how much time I’ll have available to spend with you, but I’ll do my best. But you also realize I don’t have money. So, I’m sorry I can’t take you out as you deserve.”

“Jim, I got an idea,” smiled Lydia. Then she excitedly explained her plan. “Why don’t you get rid of your apartment and bring your kids here for the summer? You and Tommy can have Michael’s room.

Emma can room with Marie. Marie has always wanted a sister, and they can use the pool. They’ll have a great time. And you’ll save money.

“Jim, I hope you understand we can’t do anything while the kids are here. I must appear to be a moral woman and mother to the kids.

Jim replied, “I understand, but want you be cramped?”

“Don’t worry about it; we’ll make do.” Giving Jim the evil eye. Lydia whispered into his ear, “Even though I’m not that moral.”

Jim rolled over on top of her and kissed her. Then, looking her in the eyes, “I never want to hear that Linda’ is more than you. I think you are the most beautiful women I’ve ever been with. So don’t ever go there again.”

Xxxx

“MOM!” yelled an angry Stephen as he stormed into the living room. “There’s somebody in my room looking at my computer.”

“Jim and the kids will be staying with us this summer. So don’t worry; you’ll be by yourself,” Lydia informed him.

“Well. I want them out now. My room is off limits,” Steven replied

“I’m sorry,” spoke the voice of an angel. “I’m Emma.

“Steven,” he replied.

Stephen looked over and stared and the pretty girl standing in the hallway. Her smile lit up his world. “Please forgive. I swear I didn’t touch it.” Emma said. “You must be pushing a lot of power if you need those 4 AXIAL S1225D COOLING fans.

Lost for words, Stephen nodded his head yes. He was staring at the green eye beauty. “Don’t, don’t worry about it,” he stuttered.

“Are you running the ZOTAC GeForce RTX™ 3070 Ti AMP video card?” she asked.

“Yeah, but it’s used. I couldn’t afford a new one.”

“Who cares.” Emma replied, “if It works.”

Jim looked at Lydia, and they chuckled.

“Are you a gamer?” Steve asked with curiosity.

“Yea, I love it.” I play Fortnite, but I’ll play anything. All I have to play on is my Xbox and my laptop. Then she asked coyly with her finger on her lip, “Will you show me your system?”

Stephen eagerly replied. To eagerly for Jim’s taste. “Sure, let’s go,” heading toward his bedroom.

Jim yelled, “Keep that door open. He turned to Lydia for support.

“We’ll have to keep an eye on those two,” she said.

Tommy came from the pool and spouted, “I’m going to my room. Marie’s driving me nuts. I can’t stand it anymore.”

“Mr. Jim,” yelled Marie. “Tommy won’t play with me.”

Jim groaned with exasperation. Turning to Lydia, he sighed, “It’s going to be a long summer, “Get your glove, Marie.” Then, looking at Lydia, I’ll go out and keep her busy.

The summer flew by, and Lydia noticed a few things about Jim. He always seemed to have just enough money to cover any event they wanted to do. He paid her the rent during those months and half of everything else. It had her worried.

In mid-August, Jim and Lydia sat in the family room watching Netflix. In the background, they hear the kids scream and yell in the backyard.

“Lydia, I was going to ask if you and the kids would like to attend my uncle LW’s annual BBQ at Lawson Park. It’s been years since I attended. And the kids barely remember it.

“LW was my divorce lawyer against Linda. After that, she refused to allow the kids to go to his picnics.

“It’s amazing how Linda used to tell me she loved LW.” Dry chuckling, “But on the other hand, she told me the same thing.

“I’ll text you all the details. But I’m warning you now; you had better wear loose, waist clothes and a belt with extra notches.

“He brings in the best BBQ caterer in the state. So, we’ll have beef ribs to die for—pork ribs, sausage, and Chicken. Roasted corn on the cob that’s then dumped into a vat of melted butter and followed up with homemade coleslaw, potato salad, macaroni salad, and pork & beans.

“If you have any room after that, homemade peach and apple cobbler with homemade ice cream. I almost forgot the ice-cold watermelon.

Lidia’s eyes grew as Jim described the menu, “I’ll check with my scheduler. I’ll probably have to work weekends for the rest of my life, but I wouldn’t miss it for the world. I’m sure the kids will like it.”

Jim smiled, “The kids will love it. LW rents those air-filled jumping houses along slides. He has games like three-legged races and volleyball. Usually, we have a pickup game of softball. They’ll have a great time.

Lydia looked around to ensure no one was watching, grabbed Jim’s face, and kissed him passionately.

“Hey, check this out, Steven,” Emma whispered. They had just walked into the kitchen without being heard by their parents. Slowly they stuck their heads around to see Lydia and Jim swapping tongues.

Emma turned to Steven and said, “I have an idea.” Whispering into his ear, he nodded yes.

They walked back over to the backdoor, quietly opened it, and then slammed it. Emma yelled, “Hey dad, “where are you?” She could hear whispering and rustling from the den.

As they entered, she noticed both parents staring at the Television. “Whatcha, watching?”

Jim replied, “Some old movie.”

Dad, the volume is turned down; you can’t hear anything,” she smirks. Noticing her parent staring blankly at the screen.

Jim replied, “We just turned it down when you came in.”

“My dad just lied to me,” she thought to herself.

Mr. Jim? “Can we take the kids to the park this afternoon?”

“Yeah, sure, take my car,” he replied.

“I’m sorry, Mr. Jim, I can’t drive anyone under the age of 10 or have more than one passenger in the car in my first year of driving unless an adult is with me.”

“Oh, I forgot, I’ll take you; go grab the kids.”

Lydia interrupted, “Steven Jim’s invited to a BBQ in two weeks. His uncle is throwing, and we’re going. So, make sure if you have plans, change them.”

Emma blurted out, “Really, I loved those when I was little. Steven, you’ll love it. My Uncle LW gets a live band to play, and the BBQ is to die for. Come on, Let’s get the kids.”

Lydia giggled, “You know, they caught us.”

Smiling, Jim said. “Yeah, that might be true, but as politicians will tell you, if no pictures exist, Deny, Deny. Deny. I’ll be back in twenty.”

Lydia hopped up and said, “I’m taking a shower; hurry back.”

As they exited the car at the park, Emma looked at Steven and mouthed, “Watch this.”

Dad, we forgot to bring any water. We won’t last long before we are ready to head home, maybe 30 to forty minutes. Can we have some money for pop?”

Jim was stuck. He pulled out a Five, “Here you go,” and tried to hand it to her.

Dad, the drinks are $2.50 apiece.” He handed her another $10.

“This will last an hour; they’ll be hungry by then. I’ll call.”

Jim reached back into his wallet and handed her another $10.

“Dad, really, hot dogs and nachos are six a plate.”

Jim reached back into his wallet and handed her another $30.

“Thanks, Dad. “See you in two hours.”

Jim thought for a second. And again, and reached back into his wallet and handed her another fifty. “I’ll be back in three. It allows you more time to have fun.”

Rolling her eyes, “Whatever you say, Dad,” Emma smirked.

Turning to walk away, Steven said, “Man, your evil.”

“My time’s valuable. Besides, I could have pressed for more. But your mom and my dad have been bitchy lately. So come on, let’s get a pop.”

The Friday night before Labor Day, the family sat around the table enjoying their Friday night Pasquale’s Pizza.

Finally, Steven took a bite and asked, “Mom can I bring a date to the BBQ on Monday.”

Mom looked at Jim and back and replied, “Sure, I don’t see why not. ”

“Jim, is it ok?” she asked.”

“Yeah, the more, the merrier,” he replied.

Lydia asked, “Do I know her?”

“No, Mom, she’s just a friend. I’ll let her know. Can I use the Explorer to pick her up?”

“Sure, Honey, just be careful.”

Thirty seconds later, the house shook from a door slamming in the girl’s room.

Steven asked, “What’s her problem?

Lydia started to speak; Jim lightly tapped her foot under the table. She looked over at Jim as he slightly shook his head, implying he didn’t want her to say anything,

Later, when cleaning the kitchen, Lydia asked, “Jim, why did you stop me from telling Steven the problem?”

Chuckling, he replied, “He’ll find out when she’s ready to tell him. It’s a learning moment for men.”

Xxxx

Labor Day

“Come on, Ms. Polly. I want to surprise Emma.” Steven took Ms. Polly by her arm and walked up behind Emma, sitting at the picnic table.

“Hey Emma, I want to introduce you to my date.”

Snarling, Emma whirled around. I don’t care about your Damn! DAAAA….. Her eyes popped open, and she squealed, “Ms. Polly, it’s been like forever.” Emma reached in and hugged her.

With a snarky attitude, she turned to Steven and asked, “This is your date!”

“Huh, Yeah,” he replied. What’s your problem? I thought you would want to see her. We talk about you all the time.”

Tight-lipped, she snarled, “You talk about me behind my back, huh!”

“Steven, it’s awful hot can you get an old lady a lemonade?” asked Ms. Polly. “You want one too, Emma?”

“Please,” Emma replied.

“Come sit with me, Emma,” said Ms. Polly. “So, you like him?” He’s a handsome young man.”

“Men are so stupid,” sighed Emma.

“Truer words have never been spoken, “So he is your boyfriend?” quizzed Ms. Polly.

“Yeah, he just hasn’t figured it out yet,” she sighed.

“If I were still a young woman, I’d fight you for him.” Giving Emily a big grin.

“Ms. Polly!” came Jim’s voice from behind them. ” What are you doing here? Oh no, let me guess. Your Steven’s date.”

“In the flesh,” she replied. “Giving Jim a big hug. “Who is this beautiful lady standing behind you?”

“This is Steven’s mother, Lydia……”

Ms. Polly raised her eyebrows and tilted her head, letting Jim know he was full of bullshit.

“No, Ms. Polly. Well, yes, it is Steven’s mother. But my girlfriend.”

Without missing a beat, she reached out and introduced herself. After exchanging pleasantries, she asked Jim to walk her around the lake.

“Alright, Jim, what’s going on? Where’s Linda?”

Jim paused and said, “Ms. Polly, it’s a long story.”

Ms. Polly retorted, “Big lake.”

After finishing his tale of sorry. Ms. Polly shook her head and said, “Such a foolish woman.”

As they returned to the area, Ms. Polly heard a loud voice from her past coming from a tall elderly man holding his court, captivated with his home-spun yarns.

Ms. Polly laughed, “Is that LW, that pompous ass?” Look at him, bellowing like an old walrus to his pod.

Jim asked, “You know, LW.”

“Yes, I do. I first met LW at a Christmas party around forty years ago. He was a horndog back then,” Chuckling, “I bet he still his.”

“He made a pass at me when we were on the dance floor. It was a terrific one, too boot. But it didn’t turn out the way he thought it would.

I told Michael about it. At that time, he was the Managing partner at the law firm LW worked for.

“He told me that LW was the most astute young lawyer he had ever seen come out of law school. Well, Mark had a man-to-man with him.

“LW was told in no uncertain terms to cut it out, or Michael would kick his ass and then fire him. Trust me; my husband could have done it.

“He gave LW a choice, quit, or learn to become a man. A man that his peers respected. And to a man, respect is more important than love.

Jim dry chuckled, “Don’t I know it.”

Ms. Polly continued, “Mark became his mentor until he died. After that, LW went off on his own.”

“Jim, can you keep a secret?” Jim nodded yes. Polly grinned ear to ear, “He made a pass at me again a couple of years after Mike’s death. That time accepted.”

Jim’s eyes grew big, and he asked, “What happened?”

“He was in love with me. And I, with him. But then the kids went nuts. Reluctantly I ran him off. He was brokenhearted. Jim, it killed me. I loved him so.”

Everyone was sitting around the picnic table laughing and having a good time when Jim heard a voice yell his name. It sounded like fingernails running down a chalkboard.

“Jim, why are my kids not home? Jim stood up to confront her. A long side of him, holding his arm for support, was Lydia.

“Who is that? Asked Linda, pointing to Lydia. Is your new wh……..”

“Watch what you’re saying,” snarled Jim. “You have kids around.”

Linda refused to calm down. She was about to commence opening he mouth again when she saw an elderly woman smiling at her. She spoke, “Linda.”

“Ms. Polly,” Linda said in a quivering voice.

“Give an old woman a hug.” After separating, Ms. Polly grabbed Linda’s arm and said, “Come with me, Linda; let’s walk around the lake and talk.”

The table went quiet as everyone watched the two stroll away. Everyone saw Linda’s knees buckle as they came around the last curve back toward the table. If she hadn’t been holding onto Ms. Polly, she would have collapsed to the ground.

Linda regained her footing and took off, running toward the parking lot, crying.

Ms. Polly sat down at the table, took a sip of lemonade, and said, “Jim, Linda said you can bring the kids home tomorrow.”

“Ms. Polly, what did you say to my mom?” asked Emma. “It looks like she had an attack of a guilty conscious.”

Sitting down her drink, she explained, “It was about 20 years when I came to the same BBQ held by his royal highness LW. I gathered all the young ladies around me, including some wives.

“I included the young ladies to hide my real reason for chastising some of the young wives who were getting a little flirtatious during company events. It was a favor to LW. And your mother was there as a guest of your father.

“I reminded her of the Virtue cupcake I spoke about all those years ago.

“What’s the Virtue Cupcake? I’ve never heard of it,” replied Emma.

“I wouldn’t be so sure about that; you just don’t recognize it,” said Ms. Polly. “Let me explain. “I don’t have a prop, but I think I can explain it to your satisfaction without one.”

“That day, I bought a box of beautiful cupcakes; they were perfect. So, I took one out and showed it to everyone. They ood and awed over it. Then I asked, who wanted one? And all the young ladies raised their hands, including the men. One of those young men was Jim.