She entered this world on September 17th, 1964, and from the very beginning she was different. She was kept secret, with hopes of surprising the world, and not be revealed for at least four months. But that was not her style, and she could not be held back. The world came to know about her in less than one month after her delivery. At first glance it was easy to see she was not like any of her relatives. With a style all her own, there were things innately embedded in her soul.
But that was a long time ago. When I first saw her she was eighteen. Her skin was coarse and showed signs of abuse, her posture slumped, looking defeated and tired from the neglect and poor treatment. However, I saw in her a fight and will to survive; I saw the potential in her and knew that I had to help her.
It was also painfully clear that after years of being ignored and abused, recovery would take time and patience. I had to go slow and take it easy to pull her up and help her to once again find joy in life.
And so, I brought her home, gave her shelter and offered her my love and compassion, the things she never received before. I would dedicate my time and make her feel wanted, needed, and use all my energy to help her reach the potential I saws within.
As she rested, I created a set of goals for myself that I felt she would respond best too. I slipped out and picked up some things I thought she would appreciate. When I returned home I went straight to work. I began with her heart disassembling it piece by piece, discarding the worn and damaged portions.
While I waited on the replacements, and machine work, along with other requirements to arrive, I began working to get her back in shape.
I felt that even though she had never suffered and accident, her skin was scraped and rough. I began removing layers of paint, with a chemical stripper and found evidence of three-color changes, to the current burgundy she now displayed even though she was faded and sun-bleached. It took time to remove the excess paint, so I could bring her back. After scoring her metal. I began using a lead supplement, to fill the few imperfections, and small dings in her skin, and sanded her body down with a 200-grit paper.
After the application of a red primer, I went over her with a 600 grit paper then wiped her down. I applied a thin coat of fiberglass epoxy feather-fill over her. This step required more sanding to smooth out her skin and prepare her for receiving her new finish. A coat of black paint was applied to reveal any remaining blemishes. Then she was re-sanded with 600. Now she was ready to receive her new finish.
The doors, trunk, white metal, and hood were removed and painted separately, with 6 coats of lacquer. The body itself, I shot with the same number of coats. Then she was reassembled and the whole body wet sanded with 1000 grit. It was time for the final coats. Four new coats of paint were applied followed by 3 coats of clear. After being wet sanded again with 1500 grit paper, she was buffed with a polishing compound and polished with liquid ebony, to bring her true sheen.
New parts arrived along with the block and heads from the machine shop. The polished crank and the bearings were hand fitted. The block was bored 40-thousandths over, to accommodate larger butterfly pistons. I installed the new multi-ground valves, and a 283 high performance cam. The cast iron intake was replaced with a new Edelbrock high-rise aluminum one; ported and polished, it seated well against the newly machined heads. A larger oil pump with a new filter and pick up, replaced the original one, and would provide a smoother flow and better lubrication. I acquired a new Holly four-barrel 650cfm and custom fitted the jets just for her.
A dual point distributor now sits where the original one resided. A fresh coat of high-temp black paint was given to it and aluminum Cobra valve covers covered the valves beneath. A new chrome air cleaner with larger air filter covered her carburetor, with the 289-identification badge prominently placed.
I also installed a new C4 Dual range Automatic transmission with a locking torque converter, new universal joints and drive shaft.
When the painting was completed, I installed new bumpers and lights. The original style GT stripes were installed, with Ceramic GT emblems, as well as factory-style pinstripes along the leading edges of the fenders and rear quarters. Reconditioned wire wheel covers, and refurbished GT light bar finished off the outside.
The interior arrived just in time. With a white head liner, and red interior panels, the red nauga-hyde interior really brought out her beauty. New instrument bezels and glove box doors along with a re-chromed Factory Air conditioning faceplate, seat hinges and rear seat fold down chrome, went well with the new arm rest and window cranks. With the new window and door rubbers and re-polished bright work, she was ready to be presented again.
When I rested I looked at her with her new transformation, and her aura seemed to penetrate deep inside me and I would be forever entranced and unable to escape her spell.
When I first met her, it was sadly evident that life had treated her harshly. But now, she had the ability to reach the soul of everyone she came into contact with. I spent hours with her, giving her my time, and she taught me patience. I learned from her that virtue and passion only came from commitment and hard work. Nothing about her was easy; perhaps that’s what attracted me most to her. In time I came to understand her moods and actions; helping me to be a better companion and offer her the things she needed. But what she gave to me was more than I ever expected. She taught me value, integrity, pride and love; a love that would be forever instilled within me.
It was time for her first dance. On the way to the ball, we paused at a traffic light and waited for it to change. Then it happened, he slipped up from behind and pulled up next to us brandishing his silver bow-tie. I tried to ignore him, this night was for her and I did not intend on allowing anyone to take that away from her. He revved up his engine and I could smell the nauseous odor of nitrous oxide and ethanol. Suddenly, her whole demeanor changed. Her breath became heavy and hard. Her heart began beating slower and it’s as if my plans became secondary to her wants. As I gripped the wheel I could feel the change come over her. Her tires clenching the blacktop and her eyes focused on the light in front of us.
The light changed; the engine of this suitor beside us roared as his tires began to lose traction. His car began sliding towards her rear quarter panel and threatening to bruise her. But she was not going to ever allow that to happen again, and she exploded into action. My head was snapped back from the sudden release of power; it was all I could do to hold on as she took control. Her rage permeated through her body and traveled right through me. I could feel her heart take over and I was nothing but a passenger as she left him far behind us. It was then that she revealed that although it was the name of a black Stallion, she preferred the name Pegasus.
When we arrived at the dance, she stole the hearts of everyone. Beautiful to behold, she received high praise and accolades from admirers. A joy to own and drive, I get great satisfaction in feeling her heartbeat as we traverse the roads together. Occasionally she has to sow some of her wild oats, but never excessively and I must say, in any situation, she always remains a lady.
Mariah awoke from a hard bump, almost falling from her berth, when her coach slammed into the rail car ahead of hers. She felt a second one as the one behind settled into hers. She found a switch on the wall and flipped it on. The brass wall sconce with a crystal globe illuminated the room. Mariah looked at it and shook her head, “That’s weird, I didn’t notice that before,” she uttered to herself. She pulled the curtains back and raised the sash, then glanced outside the cabin window. The sun was rising, and the early morning frost still covered the ground. She stared partially in amazement but in confusion as well. The station outside her window looked as if she had stepped back in time. Wooden rail carts with steel wheels laden with steamer trunks sat on the platform, and domed lamps with opaque glass chimneys hung from a trestle wood ceiling.
“Shasta Springs station, Shasta Springs station,” the conductor announced, “Three-hour water stop, local time Seven-fifteen and thirty-three degrees.”
Arching her brow, she stood and leaned towards the glass, watering stop? she remarked. She shook her head and turned towards the cabin door. She stopped and glanced at it, perplexed. The cabin seemed different. She reached out and placed her hand on the brass closet door handles and timidly opened the polished wood doors, shaking her head… ‘What’s going on?’ She said to herself. When it opened, she saw an elegant white robe next to a linen garment bag. She glared stunningly into the closet door mirror at the night gown she was wearing, “This isn’t mine,” she uttered in confusion. “I don’t even remember putting it on.
She put the robe on and tied its belt, then opened the cabin door into the corridor. The corridor offered more of the same dark Mahogany-stained wood trim and brass labeled plates with arrows indicating the car number and the cars fore and aft.
The conductor rounded the corner wearing an ornate dress uniform and tie, walking towards her, “Good morning, Ma’am. May I help you?”
She stared at him almost in disbelief. “Um… maybe you can tell me what’s going on?”
The conductor smiled, “Just a routine water stop, Ma’am, to replenish the water reservoir in Lula Belle and fill the oil tank. You’re more than welcome to enjoy the station’s amenities, but you might change into warm clothes and a wrap…. It’s a bit chilly out there.”
“No, no, um, I mean, what’s going on here, what day is this, and where am I?”
He smiled, “This is Shasta Springs, Mrs. Keaton. We stop here for passengers going up to Portland and back for Los.”
“No, I mean how did I get here?”
“You’ve been on board since we left ‘Cisco…. are you Okay Mrs. Keaton?”
“I don’t remember any of this, and why are you calling me Mrs. Keaton? That’s not my name, and I’m headed for Tampa. I have a business meeting there tomorrow morning. ”
“Well, Mrs. Keaton, that’s how you registered when you boarded, just like every other time you traveled with us, and The Southern Pacific line doesn’t go to Tampa. Are you sure you’re feeling alright?”
Mariah shook her head, “Yes, I think so, but now I am very confused … what do you mean every other time I traveled with you? I’ve never been on this train!”
“I am sorry Ma’am, and I don’t mean to sound contrary, but…. You make this trip every week. You once told me your business in ‘Cisco was important, but you said you would never live there. You even showed me a picture of your husband and children. They seem like a really nice family.”
“Family! You have me confused with someone else, I’m not married, and I’ve never met you!”
“I think you’re just pulling my leg again. I’m Rutherford, Ma’am; I’ve been your conductor on this line for ten years. I’m pretty sure that ring on your finger means you’re married.” He laughed, “and that picture of the kids you showed me last night… well they sure look a lot like you.”
“I need to find my cell, and I have to call my secretary.” `
Rutherford looked at her perplexed, “I’m sorry, ma’am, I don’t know what a cell is, but if you’ll describe it, I’d be happy to help you look for it.”
“It’s a phone, a mobile phone.”
Rutherford laughed, “I think you’ve been reading too many of those Dick Tracy comics. I’ve never heard of a mobile phone, but there’s a telephone at the station, and you can even call long-distance for 15 cents.”
Mariah shook her head; “This has got to be some kind of dream, right? Last night I boarded the Amtrak from Williamsburg, Virginia, and when I wake up, you tell me I’m in Oregon? I’m sorry this doesn’t make any sense. What day is this?”
Rutherford started to laugh but held it in, still unsure if Mrs. Keaton was pulling one of her usual well-contrived jokes on him. “Mrs. Keaton. Are you alright? Perhaps I might summon the Railroad physician?”
“I’m fine, I just don’t understand what’s going on! Why won’t you tell me what day it is and why I’m in Oregon?”
“I apologize Ma’am. I didn’t realize you were serious. No, we’re not in Oregon. We won’t arrive there until the usual time of 5:33 this evening. We’re still in California, and it’s now 7:20 am Railroad time. Today is still March 6th, and it’s still Nineteen Hundred Thirty-Seven, just like yesterday morning when you came on board.”
“Nineteen Thirty-Seven….” Mariah quipped, shaking her head, confused. That’s not possible. I boarded the train in Virginia last night, March 6th, 2025, and I booked passage on Amtrak nonstop from Richmond, Virginia, to Tampa, Florida, and I have to make a meeting in the morning.”
“Tampa? Mrs. Keaton, I don’t recollect any railroad called Amtrak, and the only train that runs coast to coast from Los Angeles east is the Transcontinental line, but that would take better than a week to travel on. You could’ve booked a flight this morning, but the plane from San Francisco would take twelve hours, and doesn’t leave ‘Cisco until around four last evening.”
“Twelve Hours? No, I’m sorry but you’re wrong, I’ve flown coast to coast before, and the jet took less than six hours with a layover in Dallas.”
Rutherford smiled, “You mean like a Jet Aereo-plane? Boy, Mrs. Keaton, you really had me going. That must have been some dream you were having last night. I guess them Dick Tracy comics can seem real. Perhaps you need to eat something. I think your Valet will be here soon. Why don’t you let her get you ready and then you can head to the dining car. It’s the car ahead of this one. Cookie will make your breakfast and maybe you will feel better.”
Mariah, though still not sure what was going on, nodded. “Maybe you’re right, um… thanks… Rutherford, is it?”
He laughed, “Yes Ma’am, always Rutherford. You have yourself a good morning, Ma’am.” he tipped his hat, then shook his head, smiling, and continued down the corridor.
She stepped into her cabin and closed the door. ‘Hot water, maybe that will help,’ She thought and walked into the lavatory. She turned on the water, then glanced down at a large make-up kit sitting on the lavatory counter. She opened it still baffled and glanced inside. “What’s this?” she remarked and pulled out a straight razor. “I don’t even know how to use one of these….” A knock came on the door. “What now?” She said exasperatedly and set the razor down. When she opened the door, a woman was standing in front of her in a white smock holding a towel over her arm, pushing a wooden service cart.
“Good morning, Ma’am. You requested Valet service, I’m Gladys, I’m here to get your morning started.”
“A Valet….um, I don’t remember….well okay…. come in I guess.”
Gladys smiled and walked in, then she went into the lavatory, “I see you have your razor, but iffen you don’t mind, I am comfortable with the way mine feels in my hand.” She smiled, “I’d just assume not nick those beautiful limbs, it would not look good under your silk fishnets. Please have a seat whilst I get things ready.”
Mariah nodded in bewilderment, “By all means….”
Gladys began running water in the lavatory sink and pulled a long stainless-steel box from under the cart she brought with her, revealing steaming hot towels. She took one out, opened it, and placed it over Mariah’s face. “This will help you relax ma’am.” Gladys closed the steam box and continued setting her equipment up. She turned and smiled, ” If you’ll excuse me for saying this, Ma’am, but Rutherford said you seemed a bit out of sorts. She set the box on the vanity, took a cup of shaving cream out, and began stirring it into a full lather. “Maybe this will help you feel more like yourself. So, are you enjoying the trip this time, Mrs. Keaton?”
“Yes…um I guess so. You’re my Valet?”
“I’m not your regular Ma’am, if ‘in I was, you’d of known right off. Mavis, well she took ill and couldn’t make the trip. I hope you’ll be pleased with me.”
“I’m sure you’ll be fine,” she remarked still perplexed.
Gladys removed the towel and knelt in front of her and glanced up. “If you please Ma’am?”?
Mariah glanced at her a bit confused, “I’m sorry.”
“I need to get you ready to start the day. We can start by shaving your limbs and then finish your sponge-bath. Then I can do your hair and makeup. We want you to look your best before you go to the dining car. A lady do always need to look her best, don’t she?” She smiled, “If you’ll slip your robe off and pull up your nightgown I can start.”
Mariah did as she asked, and Gladys began spreading the hot shaving cream over her legs. “Now then, let’s get you all shaved and cleaned up so’s you can get to breakfast.,” She pulled a razor from the top pocket of her smock and began running the blade up and down the razor strap hanging from the chair. “Recon, it’s sharp enough now.” She grinned.
Soon, Gladys had her clean, her makeup done and her hair perfect. Mariah glanced at herself in the mirror, “Wow, you did a great job, I should bring you back to Florida with me.”
“Thank you very much, Ma’am, but I’ve never lived outside of California; I don’t know what I’d do with myself in Florida.”
Mariah looked into the mirror and just stared; Gladys dressed her in a blue pinstriped silk suit with a white silk blouse and a blue silk string bow-tie. Her hair was beautiful, and she felt really good, looking at herself. “You know, it was a relief when you showed up.” she laughed, “I’m sure I would have butchered my legs with that straight razor. I would have never thought to wear my hair this way, and this suit looks great. How did the railroad know my size?”
Gladys laughed and shook her head, “Rutherford said you was a prankster. I pulled that out of your garment bag, Mrs. Keaton. It’s a beautiful suit, and I thought it might fit the gorgeous day outside. I apologize. I should have asked, would you’d of prefer the black one?”
“With everything that’s happened since I woke up, I’m not sure that is my bag, but the suit fits so….”
Gladys laughed softly, “Now, Mrs. Keaton, whose bag would you suppose it were…. it has your name on the tag.”
“Yes, well, Rutherford said the same, but nothing today makes any sense to me.” She shook her head, “He told me I was married and had kids. He even said I had a business in San Francisco.”
Gladys shook her head, “Reckon, a lady should ought know iffen she was married or not.”
Mariah smirked, “I think I would know if I had kids or not. I think someone is playing an elaborate joke on me, and with all this detail, it had to cost them a fortune.” She paused and looked at Gladys, “Okay, seriously…. Is this all some kind of setup? What’s really going on?”
“I’m sorry, Ma’am, I don’t understand. Is what a setup?”
“All this, the old steam train, the station, these clothes. Someone has gone to great effort to pull one over on me. I mean, it’s all really great and all, but you can tell me.”
She laughed, “If’n it were, nobody let me in on it. I just come to work, and they handed me your cabin number, and here I am.” Gladys stepped back, “Well Mrs. Keaton, you look ready put a shine on the day. Now you can head on up to the dining car. I’m sure Mr. Cookie can set you up with a nice breakfast.”
“I’m not one for breakfast, but I could use some coffee.”
“Wait just a minute Ma’am, you ‘bout run off and left your watch lying on the dresser.” Gladys picked the watch up and looked back at Mariah, “Do you mind Ma’am?”
She glanced at the watch, “That’s not mine either, but go ahead, I guess.”
Gladys opened the watch and smiled, “Don’t often see a diamond watch like this. It’s right beautiful, and that’s a right nice family you have, Mrs. Keaton. You must be really proud.”
“I told you…. I’m not married!”
Gladys chuckled, “Well, the woman in this picture sure do have a strong likeness to you.” She placed the gold watch on Mariah’s wrist.
Mariah looked down at the watch and how different it looked on her wrist, “Um, thank you…Gladys, I appreciate the care you gave me.”
“It weren’t nothin’ Ma’am. The station master will put the service on your bill. “Have a nice day now.” She smiled and closed the cabin door behind her.
Mariah smiled and shook her head, “If this were real, I could really get used to this. She held the watch out and looked at it. The time was eight forty-three. She had never been this late, and she really needed that coffee now. She glanced at the picture in the watch cover and fell back, sitting on the bed, stunned. The picture was a family of four, with her, an attractive man, and two children that looked like her. She stared at the picture, shaking her head. “This can’t be…. It’s me; It’s really me….”
The restaurant was teeming with customers. White linen tablecloths covered elegant dining tables and were adorned with pressed linen napkins in front of each patron’s seat. The crystal wine glasses placed upturned beside crystal water glasses and perfectly placed silverware were positioned meticulously in front of her. Janice held her breath as Robbie pulled her chair out for her to sit down. “Robbie, you can’t afford this! We can go somewhere else.”
“Nonsense,” he said. “You deserve it.” He pushed her chair in slightly for her, then went around and took his seat. “I wanted to do this for your birthday, it’s my gift to you.” He sat down as the waiter approached.
“Good evening, welcome to The Carlington. We hope you will find everything to your liking.” He turned the wine glass over in front of Robbie, “My name is Gustavo, I’ll be your waiter, and Carla will be assisting me.” He handed them leather-bound menus, “Our specials today are trout amandine, with cream truffle sauce, and roasted rack of lamb, drizzled with a sweet orange liqueur. If you would like the chocolate soufflé, which I highly recommend, please allow me to place the order now so we can reserve it, as they go quite fast.” Carla walked to the table with a basket of hot yeast rolls and a wine sampler as Gustavo continued, “Now, “I will let you have a moment to consider the menu, shall I place the order for the soufflés?”
“Yes, that would be nice,” Robbie replied, “One for each of us.” He smiled and went back to the menu.
‘Robbie,” Janice glanced over at him, “Are you sure?”
“Janice, this is your birthday present, just sit back and enjoy it; Please allow me to do this, it’s all covered.” He gave her a reassuring smile. Then glanced back at the waiter, “Two will be fine.”
“Very well, sir, I will go and reserve them for you and leave you with Carla.” He nodded his head and walked away.
“Good evening, I’m Carla. I’ve placed fresh yeast rolls on the table for you with whipped Almond butter. Would you care to sample the wine, Sir?”
“Are we allowed to have some wine?” Janice said, astonished.
“Oh, I’m sorry, you’re not of age yet?” Carla said apologetically.
“No,” Robbie replied remorsefully, “She’s sixteen and I’m only seventeen.”
“Oh, I am sorry, but I am afraid we can’t offer it to you. Might I offer you some tea or something else to drink?”
“Iced tea will be fine, thank you,” Janice smiled.
“Carla,” an older, distinguished gentleman approached their table, “This is a special occasion for them, I think we can allow some leniency in this case. Let them each have a glass of the house Chenin Blanc.”
“As you wish, Mr. Carlington,” she smiled and poured a small amount in Robbie’s wine glass, “Sir?”
Robbie looked at the glass, “Oh, we just get a taste?”
“Robbie,” Janice whispered heavily,” I think you’re supposed to taste it.”
“Oh!” He glanced up at Mr. Carlington, and then at the waitress, who was smiling sheepishly. He picked up the glass and drank the wine with one swallow and set the glass back down. “It tastes ok.”
“Mr. Carlton smiled and motioned to the waitress. She filled Janice’s glass and then went around to Robbie’s and filled his. “May you both enjoy this meal and your time with us tonight.”
“Thank you, Sir, thank you very much,” Robbie said, glancing up at him.
Mr. Carlington smiled and turned to attend to other guests and monitor the restaurant. Robbie turned to Janice and held his glass up, motioning to Janice. She lifted her glass and touched it to his. “Happy Birthday, Janice, may you have all you wish for,” Robbie said, smiling from ear to ear.
They each took a sip of the wine and set their glasses back on the table. The waiter came back and took their order. Then Carla brought out the salads and tea, as the grand evening unfolded for Janice and Robbie.
“How do you know him?” Janice asked, then took a sip of the wine.
“I made the arrangements with him personally, so you could have this tonight. Otherwise, it would have taken months to get in.”
Janice smiled, “You have no idea how much I appreciate all of this; thank you so much.”
Robbie grinned, “Maybe I do.”
The dining experience was all Janice had hoped it would be, and she savored every minute of it. After their exquisite meal, the waiter brought out some peach sorbet and sat it in front of them. Janice looked up at Robbie and then the waiter.
Robbie shrugged his shoulders and looked up at Gustavo, “I thought we were having the chocolate soufflé?”
The waiter smiled; leaned over to him and whispered, “The sorbet is to cleanse the palate to prepare you for the soufflé.”
“Oh,” Robbie smiled, and said to Janice, “it’s part of the meal Janice, it’s like a pre-dessert dessert.” He smiled warmly to her, and then looked back at Gustavo, “Thank you.”
Gustavo smiled, “May I offer you some coffee with your dessert? It goes well the soufflé.”
“That would be very nice, thank you.” Robbie replied.
Carla brought out the coffee with two white China coffee cups, silver rimmed with “The Carlington” engraved on the side. She poured the coffee and set down a container beside the cup. “Here is the cream and sugar, and Gustavo is bringing your soufflés now.”
Gustavo approached their table with a silver-covered tray and opened it in front of them, revealing the hot chocolate soufflés, and placed them in front of each of them. He pushed in the centers of the soufflés in, and poured warm white chocolate into them. “May I present the Crème de la Resistance, your chocolate soufflé?”
“Wow Robbie, this looks so great, look at that! She placed her hand on his, Thank you so much, this is all so wonderful!” she smiled warmly at him.
“It’s all for you, Janice. Happy Birthday again.”
They finished their meal; Robbie left the tip and escorted Janice to the entrance. He held the door for her and they left the restaurant. When their car reached Janice’s home, they said goodnight, then Robbie drove back to the restaurant and went in the back door. The head chef turned and gave him a stern look, “You’re late!”
“I’m sorry, sir, but tonight was her birthday, and I came back as soon as I dropped her off.”
“Oh, it was tonight?”
“Yes, sir, Gustavo saw us; he was our waiter, along with Carla.” She walked in just as he finished his statement.
“Is that true, Carla?”
“Yes, Chef Kronell, He was here with a very pretty girl.”
“Really, you were with a pretty girl, huh? You never said she was pretty. Does she know?”
“Know what, Chef? Is he working here to pay for the meal?” Carla asked curiously.
“It’s not your concern,” Gustavo said, entering the kitchen. “You need to see about table seven; they’re running low on refreshments and bread.”
“Yes, sir,” she replied, grabbing a basket of hot rolls and going back into the dining area.”
“Now,” Chef Kronell said, “you have work to do. It’s you’re last night, so let’s get going.”
Robbie nodded his head. “You want me to start on the dishes?”
“Yes, and if you break any, you‘ll get another night added to your schedule…”
“Yes, Sir Chef,” Robbie replied. then he held his hand to his head and winced.
“You alright, son?”
“Yes, sir, my head is just hurting.”
“You need some aspirin or something?”
“No, sir, it will be ok once I get my mind off of it.”
“Very well,” then he addressed the staff,” Let’s get going, people, we have customers waiting!”
The evening went by fast; Robbie worked hard and did his best. When he completed his work, the kitchen staff had mostly left, with the exception of the head chef and Mr. Carlington. He took off his apron, placed it in the dirty linen bin, washed his hands, and prepared to leave.
“You worked hard, Son, I’m very impressed. You sure you don’t want a regular job here?”
‘Thanks, Mr. Carlington, but I’m afraid that won’t be possible, I explained that before…
“Yes, you did,” he interjected, “but should the situation change, and you are able”
“Thanks again, sir, I wish I could. I really like working here. “
“You take care, and I really hope things all work out.”
“Well, part of it has. Thanks for working the evening out with me; I really wanted her to have something to remember.”
He smiled, “I’m sure she will, and you have given us all something to remember as well. Goodnight Robbie.”
“Good night, Sir, and thank you again.” He smiled and walked out the back. His head was hurting worse, but he would go and get something for it now.
The next morning, Robbie got up and went into the kitchen. He poured himself a glass of fresh orange juice, his father squeezed the night before. The taste was one thing he could never get enough of. He opened the drawer under the coffee pot and took out a bottle of pills. The bottle was close to empty, but he would get some more today. He took out two pills and washed them down with the juice, then took out a pan to make himself some breakfast.
“Would you like me to do that for you?” his mother asked, walking in from her bedroom.
“I can get it; you want me to make you some eggs too?”
“How about you make the toast and get the sausage going, I’ll make the eggs. I heard you up, how are you feeling?”
“It hurts a little, but it’s been a lot worse.” He smiled. She looked over to him and tried to maintain composure but was unable to and began crying. “Please, Mom, it’s alright,” he said, embracing her. “I’m gonna be fine, you don’t need to worry about me.”
“I know, but it just seems all so unfair.” She said between her sobbing.
“Mom, nobody said life was fair, but that’s why we have a promise to stand on, a hope for better.”
“I know, Son, I know. Did you finish work last night at the Carlington?”
“Yes, Ma’am,” he chortled, thinking Chef Kronell wanted me to break something so he could get another night’s work out of me.”
“That was so nice of Mr. Carlington to allow you to do that; did Janice enjoy it?”
“I think so, she never stopped smiling.”
“Did you tell her?”
“No, Mom, I didn’t want to; it might have taken away from the evening for her.”
“I suppose you’re right, but you have to tell her sooner or later.”
“I will, there’s still plenty of time. Besides, something may change. Doc Pritchard said he has seen things happen before.” Then he felt the sharp stabbing pain in his head and sat down in one of the chairs at the kitchen table, holding his hands up to it.
“It’s started again, hasn’t it?”
“Yeah, but it’s ok,” he winced and took a deep breath, “it doesn’t last long. I’ll be ok in a sec.”
“Are you going back to the hospital again today?”
“Yes, Ma’am, the kids look forward to it, and I enjoy it too.”
“I just don’t get to see you that much and now…,” she began sobbing again softly.
“I understand, Mom, but we’ll have forever. I may be the only one those kids will ever know who can offer them a chance.”
She smiled half heartily and wiped the tears from her eyes. “You do what you feel God has led you to do. I know his plans for you don’t agree with mine, but he and I will have quite a few things to talk about.”
“Well, how about we get some breakfast now, or you and I may have a lot to discuss too, I’m hungry!” he gave her a grin.
A smile finally showed on her face, “Ok, Buster, get the eggs and sausage out, and I’ll get things started. If you want grits, you need to get them out of the freezer.”
“That sounds good; I’ll get the container out and an extra pan.”
“Get the larger one, your Dad will be out soon, and I’m sure he will want some too.”
“Yes, Ma’am,” I need to call the doctor’s office today, my pills are running low, and the prescription is out.”
“Well, they don’t open for another couple of hours; I’ll call them and see if they can send in a new one for you.” She shook her head, “Those things are so expensive, and the insurance won’t pay for them anymore. We’ll make sure you keep getting them, though, somehow…”
“Don’t worry about it, Mom, I can call later. I could ask Mr. Carlington if I can work there on a regular part-time basis for a bit, then I could help with the cost.”
“We’ll be ok Robbie; we just need to switch some things around, is all.” She thought a moment, “You know, you don’t have to go to school on Monday if you don’t want to.”
“I thought about that, Mom, but I like school, and I get to see my friends.”
“Have you told any of them?”
“No way! I don’t see the point, and I don’t want them to start feeling sorry for me; it would make things harder. I’ll just keep things the way they are.”
“What about the headaches, won’t they start to wonder?”
“Na,” he laughed, “They’re not that smart, I just told them I have migraines, so they don’t ask anymore.”
She broke some eggs in the pan. “You are something else, son, you really make me proud with the way you’re handling all this.”
“We don’t get to pick the hands we’re dealt, Mom; we just have to play them the best way we can.” He smiled, pouring water from the tap into the pan and setting it on the stove.
“It just doesn’t seem fair, why God would let you get sick like this. There are lots of other people in this world, some really bad ones. Why can’t this have happened to them?”
“Mom,” he glanced over at her, “you think God caused this to happen? This is as much a part of life as breathing. I don’t blame God; things happen. You think it’s God’s fault that car accidents happen or planes crash. What about hurricanes, or earthquakes?”
“No, I guess not, it’s just because it’s happening to you, you do so much for others even though you’re going through what you are.”
“I’ve thought a lot about that, Mom, but I figure it’s like this: God gave us free choice. If He started controlling what happens to whom and when, then we wouldn’t have free choice. No,” he shook his head, “Things happen because they do. I believe God answers prayers, and he can intervene if we ask him too, but it also has to stay within his plan. If what happens to me might bring someone else a closer understanding and knowledge of him, then I am doing what God wants me to. Sure, I want to get married and finish college. I want to have kids, and there are so many things I want to enjoy still, but it doesn’t seem like that’s all going to work out for me. Who knows what he has planned for me? I know that he loves us and wants the best for us. My best may be yet to come, and maybe he has plans for me there. I’m kind a scared but kind of excited too.”
Robbie’s mother’s eyes began to tear; she tried hard to hold back her pain, her heart being torn from the thoughts of losing her son, but also from the knowledge that her son’s faith was so much better than hers. She felt it swell with pride at the character and sure-mindedness Robbie displayed; her words were at a loss. She reached out and grabbed him, pulling him close, and buried her face in his chest, embracing him tightly, and threw her sobs, said, “I love you, Son.”
Robbie drove to the hospital, his mind lost deep in thought. He thought about Janice, how happy she looked. He smiled, reflecting back on it. It was really great of Mr. Carlington to let him do that for her, and he didn’t mind the work. It was kind of fun, too, even though it was hard work. He laughed to himself thinking about Chef Kronell, he was so anal, but he was good. His food was out of this world. It was worth working there for those two weeks to pay for the meal. He paused and shook his head; maybe God helped him with that as well.
He pulled his car into the parking lot, the springs squeaking and complaining as it went over the bumps. It wasn’t much of a car, but for two hundred bucks, it got him where he needed to go, and besides, he thought to himself, “I won’t need it that long.”
\When Robbie walked onto the pediatric oncology ward, it was like a breath of fresh air. The nurse smiled upon seeing his face walking down the hall. “Good morning, Robbie, how are you today?”
“Doing pretty well, Nurse Marci, thanks for asking.”
“How are your headaches?”
“A little more frequent, had some bad ones last night and one this morning, but I can deal with it. I need to get a hold of Doc Pritchard’s office; my meds are running out.”
“Don’t you worry your head about it, I’ll call them as soon as I’m finished with the morning rounds. You go on in, the kids have been asking about you all day!”
“Thanks, Ma’am, that’s nice of you, I really appreciate it.” He smiled and went through the double doors to the common area. The children were all playing somberly until they saw him enter, then almost as in unison, their faces brightened up. Some of them stood and ran to him to hug him, others sat in wheelchairs, grinning, waiting for their turn. Robbie greeted them each personally and offered each one a hug.
“We missed you, Robbie; it’s different when you’re not here.” One of the children said, and the others all joined her in agreement.
“Well, I have to go to school during the week, and soon you will have to too.” He rubbed her on the back of her smooth head, absent of hair from the treatments she was receiving.
“Not me,” replied one somber one in a wheelchair, “I’m terminal. The doctors said they can’t do anything more for me.”
He smiled, walked over to her, and knelt beside her. “You know, Mary, we don’t know what tomorrow has in store for us. That’s all in God’s hands, but I know this: if God wants you with him, he’s got better things planned for you.”
“Why would he, I’m all crippled up in a wheelchair, who’s gonna want to take care of me like this?”
He smiled, “In heaven, there won’t be any wheelchairs, no pain, no sickness, our feet may never touch the ground. I know it seems difficult to believe, but Faith is the evidence of things unseen. You should do your best to make others here feel happy. If the Doctors are right, you will have the opportunity to get rid of this chair and see God before any of the rest of them do. And if they’re wrong, then you will have to suffer with the rest of us for a while longer.” She smiled and nodded her head.
“Now, how about a story?” he asked enthusiastically. The children gathered around him for the much-awaited rendering Robbie brought to them. He finished the book to applause and cheers from the children. Robbie stayed and played with the children all day. It was always special for him and brought him joy just to be with them, encourage them, and maybe lift their spirits.
The parents would watch Robbie with the kids and feel the joy that seemed to emanate from him. Watching him work with the children brought them hope and inspiration as well. Twice during the day, his headaches returned. But he maintained his composure in front of the children and excused himself to the nurse’s station until they passed. He didn’t want them to know about his condition. Robbie believed they needed to only know hope and positive aspects. He knew one day he would not be there for them, but he would do what he could, as long as God allowed.
Robbie continued with his schoolwork as long as he could, until the headaches became too much for even him to withstand. He made a valiant effort; the doctors and the specialist exhausted every possibility to help him. Towards the end, they did their best to ease the pain of his headaches. God looked down on Robbie and the inspiration and hope he showed others; he smiled and lovingly called him home.
The children missed him; they believed he had found something else to occupy his time with. His funeral was well attended by so many people from the community. His mother and father, along with all his relatives, filled one side of the church. The rest of the seats were taken by members of the community, spilling out into the alcove and in front of the sanctuary.
The Pastor gave a brief message about Robbie and how he lived his life. His Mother and father both stood and spoke of their pride in Robbie and his bravery. Mr. Carlington even went forward and said a few words about his honor in knowing Robbie, be it only briefly. Chef Kronell wiped tears from his eyes, thinking back on Robbie and how he had touched every life he came in contact with, fully complemented in attendance from the restaurant, Gustavo and Carla seated next to the Chef. Robbie would be missed greatly by the community, but what his life stood for would be remembered in the hearts of all who knew him for a lifetime.
The children all entered the common room solemnly. Today was Saturday, the day Robbie had always come to see them. They gathered around the chair centered in the room where a story book waited. “Before I begin,” she said, smiling, “My name is Janice, and I want to tell you a story.” She smiled as a tear started down her cheek.
SA Lawrence Author 