Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #88 (18.4)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Now that there will be no trial, Uncle Benny has to decide what he wants to do. A call from Ethan's mother solves that, so it's back to Imperial for the boys! See what's happening in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers. Their links follow my tale. Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #88 (18.4)

Time to leave Atlanta, although Benny wasn’t really sure where he wanted to go, now that he was free of his poisonous ex for a long time to come. But that question was quickly answered the next morning when he called his sister, aka Ethan’s mom, to tell her the news.

“Are you sure, Maureen?” he kept repeating. Ethan and I had finished packing and were waiting for Benny to be done and then we’d check out of the hotel. “Is he okay with it?”

I had to assume by “he” was meant Ethan’s dad, the right Reverend Thorne.

“Thank you. And thank him too. I’ll see you soon.” He hung up and turned toward us, his expression both relieved and surprised. “Looks like I’m heading back to Imperial,” he said. “Your mom invited me to stay with them until I figure out what I want to do. So, if you would, can you drop me at the bus station, please?”

Of course Ethan nixed that idea immediately, insisting that it was not out of the way to drop his uncle off. Besides, that gave him the chance to see his family again before we started the next leg of our journey. And didn’t that sound ominous? The fact that he was being deliberately obscure worried me, but I shook the feeling off. I trusted Ethan too much to believe he would ever do anything detrimental or not in my best interest. He’d certainly demonstrated over and over how much he loved me, to what lengths he would go for me.

So back to Imperial for us. We’d only been gone a couple of days, which was probably why it felt like coming home again. Or maybe it was the warm welcome we received, especially from Maureen, but also Joseph. Or maybe it was becoming my home away from home, to be honest. Whereever Ethan was was my first home, of course, as he possessed me heart and soul. For his part, Ethan was most definitely pleased, I could tell. Whatever made him happy was pleasing to me, so there you go.

“Can you stay for supper?” Maureen asked. “Spend the night? Then you can get a bright and early start and not worry about traveling in the middle of the night.”

Of course, we’d done more than our fair share of that over the years, but I wasn’t opposed to spending another night not in a motel. But what happened next totally shocked me.

“You guys can take my room for the night,” Joey suggested. “So you won’t have to sleep on the floor.

Ethan looked almost as surprised as I’m sure I did, but their mother did look very pleased. Will wonders never cease?

“Thanks, but Uncle Benny should,” Ethan began, but Maureen was way ahead of him.

“I’ve already cleaned out my sewing room for Benny,” she said. “With Sarah’s help.”

“Thanks for the offer, bro, but we’ll be good downstairs,” Ethan said with a smile. Bro? I don’t believe I’ve ever heard Ethan call him that before. Joey nodded his understanding. So much to take in at one time.

I had to suspect that one reason for Ethan’s arranging for us to be downstairs was that it gave us more privacy than if we were upstairs with the others. I wasn’t sure if I could entice him into making love, though, when they were still so close. Hell, I wasn’t even sure I was comfortable with that idea. But it didn’t matter. Just being together was what counted. The rest could wait until we got home. Besides, if we were downstairs, it would be easier to walk Benny.

 to be continued

Now go see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #80 (16.4)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

After a surprising heart-to-heart with Ethan's older brother, Vinnie and Ethan leave him to his mother and spend some time with Uncle Benny. See what's happening in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them! Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #80 (16.4)

We found Ethan’s Uncle Benny in the kitchen, putting away some dishes. Obviously helping his sister with her daily routine. I couldn’t have stopped my snicker if I’d tried…and I confess, I didn’t try very hard. The man was wearing a ruffled green plaid apron—obviously Maureen’s—but how incongruous it appeared on his rugged frame, especially with that ginger beard. Luckily for me , he didn’t take my laugh in the wrong way, giving us both a huge grin.

Then he turned immediately serious. “Everything okay out there?” I had to guess he had overheard the same thing Maureen had but had elected to give them their privacy, much as we had.

“It will be,” Ethan replied. “It will be.”

Benny nodded as he removed the apron and set it on a hook on the wall. We had carried our dishes in from the porch. Ethan automatically reached for my empty glass, but I beat him to the punch and helped myself to his instead.

“I have this,” I insisted. “My mama raised me right.” I gave him a quick wink before carrying them to the sink. I quickly washed both and placed them upside down into the dish drainer by the side of the sink so they could dry.

“Looks like you have him well-trained.” Now it was Benny’s turn to snicker, and I couldn’t exactly blame him. Turnabout is fair play, after all.

Before Ethan had a chance to respond, my smart mouth had to open. “In ways you can’t even imagine.” Did I really just say that?

We all laughed at that, breaking the solemn mood, at least for the moment. Ethan suggested we sit in the living room, which idea Benny and I seconded. We were just getting settled when the sound of the back door, followed by an excited yip, announced our pup’s impending arrival moments before he barreled into the room. I was curious to see which one of us he would favor with his presence, but he was playing equal opportunity pup today, and bounced back and forth between the three of us for pets and rubs. Probably trying to gauge which he liked the best before he made his decision. In the end, he settled on Ethan’s lap in serene contentment.

Maureen wasn’t far behind. She was alone, so I assumed Joey was collecting himself outside and might possibly join us later. Maybe. Her eyes seemed suspiciously damp, but no one commented on that. Besides, she didn’t seem unhappy, so hopefully whatever was said between them had done them both some good.

“I know y’all are heading out tomorrow, so I took the liberty of inviting Sarah to come over tonight. And Troy and Brendan too.”

Well, this was her house, of course she had the right to have whatever guests she chose. Not like we would be complaining at seeing Ethan’s sister as well as our friends once more before we took off for Atlanta. Well, Troy and Brendan were coming with, but still. They were our closest friends. I would be sad to say goodbye to Maureen and Sarah and little Alex, but truth be told, I was ready to get back to work. Waiting for something that might not even happen was driving me crazy.

Too bad we had an appointment with crazy the next day.

 to be continued

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We found Ethan’s Uncle Benny in the kitchen, putting away some dishes. Obviously helping his sister with her daily routine. I couldn’t have stopped my snicker if I’d tried…and I confess, I didn’t try very hard. The man was wearing a ruffled green plaid apron—obviously Maureen’s—but how incongruous it appeared on his rugged frame, especially with that ginger beard. Luckily for me , he didn’t take my laugh in the wrong way, giving us both a huge grin.

Then he turned immediately serious. “Everything okay out there?” I had to guess he had overheard the same thing Maureen had but had elected to give them their privacy, much as we had.

“It will be,” Ethan replied. “It will be.”

Benny nodded as he removed the apron and set it on a hook on the wall. We had carried our dishes in from the porch. Ethan automatically reached for my empty glass, but I beat him to the punch and helped myself to his instead.

“I have this,” I insisted. “My mama raised me right.” I gave him a quick wink before carrying them to the sink. I quickly washed both and placed them upside down into the dish drainer by the side of the sink so they could dry.

“Looks like you have him well-trained.” Now it was Benny’s turn to snicker, and I couldn’t exactly blame him. Turnabout is fair play, after all.

Before Ethan had a chance to respond, my smart mouth had to open. “In ways you can’t even imagine.” Did I really just say that?

We all laughed at that, breaking the solemn mood, at least for the moment. Ethan suggested we sit in the living room, which idea Benny and I seconded. We were just getting settled when the sound of the back door, followed by an excited yip, announced our pup’s impending arrival moments before he barreled into the room. I was curious to see which one of us he would favor with his presence, but he was playing equal opportunity pup today, and bounced back and forth between the three of us for pets and rubs. Probably trying to gauge which he liked the best before he made his decision. In the end, he settled on Ethan’s lap in serene contentment.

Maureen wasn’t far behind. She was alone, so I assumed Joey was collecting himself outside and might possibly join us later. Maybe. Her eyes seemed suspiciously damp, but no one commented on that. Besides, she didn’t seem unhappy, so hopefully whatever was said between them had done them both some good.

“I know y’all are heading out tomorrow, so I took the liberty of inviting Sarah to come over tonight. And Troy and Brendan too.”

Well, this was her house, of course she had the right to have whatever guests she chose. Not like we would be complaining at seeing Ethan’s sister as well as our friends once more before we took off for Atlanta. Well, Troy and Brendan were coming with, but still. They were our closest friends. I would be sad to say goodbye to Maureen and Sarah and little Alex, but truth be told, I was ready to get back to work. Waiting for something that might not even happen was driving me crazy.

Too bad we had an appointment with crazy the next day.

 

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #57 (12.2)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

As the others go off to sleep, Vinnie and Ethan and Uncle Benny decide to do a perimeter check, just to make sure everything is safe and secure. See what's going on in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers! Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #57 (12.2)

The temperature had dropped a little as the three of us filed down the porch stairs, careful to be quiet in deference to those sleeping inside.

“Let’s go this way.” Ethan nodded toward one side of the house, and we followed his head, eyeing our surroundings very carefully. I knew agents were watching our every movements. Sure enough, Anderson’s ring tone sounded from Ethan’s phone. He quickly answered and explained what we were doing and then hung up. Good to know someone was concerned enough to find out if everything was kosher.

“I see you’ve been a good influence on Joe,” Benny commented. “The old Joe would have thrown me out of his house as soon as look at me.”

“He has softened a little,” Ethan admitted. He stopped to face his uncle. “I think the real credit goes to Vinnie, though, for not putting up with his nonsense and having the nerve to tell him the truth.”

I felt my cheeks warm as Benny reached out his hand and took mine in his. “Thank you, Vinnie. For myself and for my sister. I know things have gotten much better for her too, and she isn’t putting up with his shit anymore either.”

“That’s for sure.” Ethan chuckled and we followed suit. Our laughter was cut short by a sharp snap, such as the sound of a breaking twig. We froze in place. I tried to gauge which way the sound had come from, searching for the telltale gleam of a rifle scope. But the next moment, something small and furry hared across the yard and we relaxed, laughing nervously.

We made our careful way around the outside of the house, keeping to the shadows as much as possible. The only sounds were typical nighttime noises, such as a faraway train whistle, distant traffic, and an occasional bird call. I was in no hurry to go back inside, and I got the impression neither were Ethan and Benny. Maybe if we gave him enough time, Joey would be asleep before we did, and we wouldn’t have to deal with his sorry ass.

Once we made a complete circuit of the house and found nothing amiss, we took seats on the porch steps. Well, Ethan and I did. Benny chose to stand, leaning against the stair rail.

“So, you guys are actually in a movie? With Troy McGarrett?” He sounded more than a little amused. I couldn’t blame him. We were undercover agents, not Hollywood stars. I would find the situation amusing myself if I didn’t know the circumstances under which our stint as actors occurred. “I bet there’s a heck of a story there.”

Ethan reached for my hand and squeezed it as I bit back the groan that tried to escape me. The only good thing that came out of that story was our meeting and becoming friends with Troy. “Fine.” I sighed dramatically, well aware of my diva-ish behavior. Not that I really thought he needed my permission to tell our story.

Before Ethan had a change to begin the tale, though, I thought I heard a scratching from the front door, followed by a faint yip. I knew right away who that was. I hurriedly got up from the steps and hastened to the front door. Opening it softly, I released our puppy, who was very happy to see me. I bent down and lifted him into my arms, then resumed my seat on the steps beside Ethan.

“Think he needs to go?” Ethan asked.

Duh, I should have realized that. I kissed his little head and set him down. He headed straight down the steps to the nearest flower bed, did his business and ran straight back to me. I guess that answered that question. Ethan reached over and ruffled Benny’s fur. He yapped his appreciation as he settled comfortably against me.

If I thought that interruption would interrupt our tale, I was sadly mistaken.

to be continued

Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's new!

Cia Nordwell

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #42 (8.5)

Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #41 (8.5)

“I’m so sorry.” Maureen continued to apologize for her ill-mannered child, even though she clearly wasn’t to blame for his bad behavior. And honestly I couldn’t fault the minister either. Face it, Joe Jr. was just a bad egg.

Ethan, Sarah, and Benny were quick to assure her that his words were not his fault, while I maintained a stoic silence. Both because I didn’t feel it was my place to intrude in this family moment and also because I had nothing but expletives to use regarding him and didn’t think that would be appropriate behavior on my part.

The minister retreated to his study, at least momentarily, leaving the rest of us to ourselves.

“I’m so sorry, where are my manners? I bet you’re all thirsty after your long trip. What can I get you?”

We all protested that we didn’t want to be any trouble but in the end Maureen prevailed, and Benny went into the kitchen with her to help bring out glasses of homemade Southern sweet tea. Not until everyone was settled with their drink, including Alex who was enjoying fruit juice in his special cup Grandma kept just for him, did the conversation return to the original subject of Joe Jr’s missing wife.

“Heather moved out suddenly one day,” Maureen explained. “I don’t know her reasons as I haven’t talked to her. And Joey hasn’t exactly been forthcoming with information.” She sighed. “Haven’t seen her or heard from her since then. Neither has Joe, and you know how close they were.”

Ethan and I exchanged glances but neither of us said a word. Didn’t seem appropriate somehow. Also, what could we say? From where we stood, they seemed closer than close. I didn’t want to be the one to accuse Ethan’s father of infidelity without at least some evidence of it, but they sure gave a good impression of being cheaters.

Well, there was that time we caught them shopping together, back when I was dressed like a woman and Ethan’s mother was in the hospital, before I came out as me. There was a negligee in their cart, a delicate little red thing, it was. And never mind that until we saw them, I had the strangest feeling Ethan was angling to get one of those same skimpy garments for me to wear. Thank goodness, that never happened.  Truth be told, we never did receive an explanation of what was going on that day, and they never offered to explain.  Not like we asked, either. Talk about awkward. I had ended up diffusing the situation by pretending to be hurt, thus drawing Ethan’s attention to something other than his possibly cheating father.

Still, although that in and of itself might look damning—and trust me, it did—I don’t think that testimony would fly in a court of law.

Caught up in my own thoughts, I almost missed what Maureen said next. That Joe’s insurance business had gone belly up (my words, not hers), and that’s why he was back home. Unemployed, without his wife, and generally miserable.

I could have told her he struck me as a very miserable person who deserved everything he got, but I wisely held my tongue.

Evening was already approaching. I hadn’t noticed before but a delicious aroma emanated from the kitchen, one that made my mouth fairly water. And reminded me we had miles to go before we slept, unfortunately. Ethan must have read my mind. We exchanged glances. I could see he felt worse than I did. It wasn’t often he was able to enjoy being in the bosom of his family like this, even if his brother was right upstairs. I liked the way this felt myself, so I could understand he was reluctant to end it.

But it’s also not like we had a choice.

“You’ll stay to dinner, won’t you?” Maureen asked. “I have a pot roast in the oven, with potatoes and vegetables. And I made fresh bread today.”

That sounded so very good.

“Mom, I wish we could—” Ethan’s phone rang, cutting him off mid-sentence. Anderson again? The hairs on the back of my neck stood up in alarm.

Ethan rose and beckoned to me to do the same. He excused us and we headed to the front porch as he answered the call, putting it on speaker for my benefit.

“How far from the hotel are you?” Anderson asked. No hello, no preamble.

“Maybe an hour and a half or so,” Ethan said. “What’s up?”

“I think maybe you should stay away from Atlanta for right now. Maybe for a few days even.”

 to be continued

Now go visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them!

Cia Nordwell

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #36 (7.4)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

For such a short trip, this one feels like it's taking forever! The only benefit is spending time with Ethan's family. But Vinnie is still not sure they're not being stalked. See what's going on in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan! Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #36 (7.4)

We sat and rocked for a minute or two, each man lost in his own thoughts. I was trying to convince myself that Chip was not behind all our misfortunes and was halfway succeeding, when I felt Ethan’s hand on my knee. He’d slid his rocking chair next to mine, and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t welcome the comfort of his touch. He didn’t say anything, but I understood everything he meant to convey through his warmth, and I appreciated that.

“So, Benny, have you given any thought about what you’re going to do once all of this is over?” Ethan asked his uncle. Benny didn’t answer right away. I glanced up to find him thoughtfully stroking his beard.

“I’ve thought of little else, to be honest,” he replied. “Before I ran into Connor, I was just basically wandering around, not putting down roots. Seeing the country, so to speak. But that shit gets old, trust me. And it’s a lonely life too.”

My heart went out to the man—he sounded so lost. When Ethan squeezed my hand, I knew he felt much the same way, which only served to reinforce how lucky we were to have each other.

“What’s your degree in?” I asked, hoping to find happier ground.

“Never actually got one,” Benny admitted with a rueful shake of his head. “Went to prison before I graduated. Not that it matters. My major back then was art history.” He snorted. “Wonder what I intended to do with that. Seemed like a good idea at the time, and I guess I had visions of curating the Met or something, but in all reality that degree and fifty cents will just barely get you a cup of coffee. And a not very good one at that.”

That was an incredibly honest observation.

“Luckily, I got the chance to do some studying while I was on the inside. I got smart and signed up for a computer program. Learned enough to keep me going when I got out, along with assorted odd jobs I picked up, depending on where I ended up at any given time. If I thought I could, I’d be more than happy to settle down and actually get a computer degree and do something worthwhile with my life.”

“So why can’t you?”

Ethan’s direct question took me by surprise. He was usually the polite one, while I was considered the mannerless lout in our relationship. But he had said just what I was thinking, before I could say it.

Benny shrugged, but made no immediate reply. A moment passed before he responded. “Maybe it’s not so much if I can do it or not, it’s just that I haven’t decided where I might want to put down roots, you know? I guess that would make a difference in what I decide to do. ”

Just then, Alex came charging around the corner with a happy whoop and a huge grin. He made a beeline for Benny, who pulled the child up onto his lap without hesitation. I glanced around nervously, but my fears were quickly allayed when Sarah herself came into view.

“Hey, I told you not to run,” she scolded her son, but she didn’t really sound angry. Probably an automatic Mom response. “Sorry, Uncle Benny,” she apologized, reaching for Alex, but Benny shook his head.

“He’s good here, it’s okay.”

Sarah bent down and kissed the top of Benny’s head, then Alex’s, before taking another rocking chair. She stretched out her legs with a loud sigh of satisfaction. “I’m not gonna argue.” She laughed.

“So, did I hear you say something about putting down roots?”  Turning serious, this question was clearly addressed to Benny. “What about Imperial? Ever think about going back? Or even Atlanta? It’s close enough to be doable.”

“I’m not sure that’s where I want to be,” Benny said frankly. He resettled himself in his chair. Alex adjusted himself accordingly. Taking the opportunity he saw, he reached for Benny’s red beard and tugged at it.

Too late, Sarah cried out, “Alex, no!”

“Doesn’t hurt,” Benny assured her. “This little fellow couldn’t hurt me if he tried, could you, Alex?”

“No,” Alex agreed, just before tugging at the hair again. I had to refrain from sniggering, and I could feel Ethan silently quivering beside me.

“Maybe someday you’ll have a beard of your own, little man,” Benny said, just before he gently removed Alex’s hand. “But that’s enough for right now, okay?”

Alex didn’t seem to mind. He turned to look at his mother as if to tell her he knew what he was doing. Benny handed him one of the brochures he must have picked up when we entered the building, and Alex seemed satisfied to examine that.

“What about you?” Ethan asked his sister. “You planning to stay with Mercy forever?”

“Of course not,” Sarah replied. I couldn’t help but notice she glanced away from him as she spoke.

“Don’t you have to get back to the museum at some point?” Ethan persisted.

“I don’t know,” Sarah waffled. Judging by her tone of voice, I could tell she wasn’t eager to pursue this particular topic of conversation. Ethan wisely let it go, even though I knew he wanted to find out what was troubling his twin. “Roanoke seems nice,” she unexpectedly added.

Was she suggesting what I thought she was? Ethan and I exchanged surprised glances.

 to be continued

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Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #31 (6.6)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

When we left our heroes, they and Ethan's family were stranded, having had the tires of their car slashes! Help will take a few hours, so what to do until then? See what's happening in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #31 (6.6)

It wasn’t long before our most excellent Uber driver dropped us off at the Visitors Center for the Museum.

“You’re gonna have fun,” she assured us in her soft Virginia drawl.

“Can we request you when we’re ready to go back?” Sarah asked, a notion we all seconded.

The driver gave us a rueful grin with a shake of her head. “Sorry, no, unfortunately. But I’ll keep an eye out for y’all when you put in your request and if I’m free, I’ll be happy to come back to getcha.”

That had to be adequate, what else could we do?

Once inside the Visitor’s Center, we paid our admission fees to a friendly young lady behind the desk and began to look around. At the moment, we were the only visitors there, so we had the entire place to ourselves, other than the aforementioned employee.

“I’m afraid there isn’t a lot going on today,” she apologized. “One of our slow days, so no one is around, including the volunteers. But feel free to look around as much as you like.” She was engaged in some kind of needlecraft, which she held inside a hoop on her lap, swiftly plying her nimble needle. “Don’t hesitate to ask for help.” She pointed out a rack containing a multitude of brochures that sat against one wall. We thanked her kindly.

Gotta love Southern hospitality.

Once we’d thoroughly examined the various displays in the Visitors Center, we wandered outside to see the rest of the buildings. There were no organized tours, as such, everyone being free to wander about to their heart’s content, go at their own pace. According to a sign near the barn, at times there were wagon rides, but that was apparently not an option today. Nor were any of the re-enactments available. We might have to make time to come back someday.

Benny offered to carry little Alex, but it soon became clear that he wanted none of that, being full of energy and ready to use it. He set the child on his own two feet and took one hand while Sarah took the other, conveniently sandwiching Alex in between. He seemed satisfied with that arrangement, while Ethan and I walked side by side, bringing up the rear.

I felt a little more relaxed now. There had been no other vehicles in the parking lot, other than the one no doubt belonging to the girl behind the counter. If someone were stalking us, they’d have to do it on foot, and it was very unlikely that was happening.

According to what we read, the restored farmhouse and its nine outbuildings had been preserved rather than reconstructed, dating back to 1897, while the school was from 1894. We learned about the Scotch-Irish and the German settlers who once lived there. I found it very interesting, and I know Ethan did too. Sarah was clearly in her element, as she told Alex stories about what we were looking at. He seemed quite mesmerized himself.

Despite this respite, I noticed Ethan kept an eagle eye on our surroundings at all times. I moved closer to him and dropped my voice, although I was sure the others were too engrossed in checking out the school house to notice. “Do you think we were followed?”

He bit at his lower lip thoughtfully for just a second before he took my hand in his. “I don’t really think so, but I don’t want to be taken unawares either, you know?”

I understood what he meant. Better safe than sorry.

“We’ll have to come back here sometime,” Ethan said. “It’s too bad we missed the wagon ride. Could be romantic.”

I wasn’t sure how romantic riding in the back of a wooden cart on wheels might be, especially if one had to share the pleasure with other people… but I was certainly willing to find out. Hell, I’d do anything that meant spending time with Ethan.

“You and me, always,” he said. Such a mind reader he was. I felt my cheeks warm just before he kissed me, but before we could get carried away, his phone rang. Such an annoying sound.

It was the tire store. Interlude over, back to reality. Ethan thanked the caller than opened up the Uber app and requested a ride. Time to get back on the road.

 to be continued

Now go see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

 

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #30 (6.5)

Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Someone has slashed the tires of Vinnie and Ethan's car! And Vinnie swears he saw Caroline St. Clair in the crowd at the rest area. Could he be right, or is he just a little paranoid? See what's happening in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #30 (6.5)

If I’d been wearing a dress, I’d have followed Sarah inside without a second thought. Okay, maybe it wouldn’t have been that easy, even dressed as a woman. But not dressed as one, I had no option but to wait outside, along with Ethan and Benny and Alex, and hope Sarah didn’t run into any trouble inside. I’m sure Ethan felt the same way, the way he fidgeted, rocking Alex back and forth, his eyes glued to the ladies’ room door. A few minutes that felt like an eternity later Sarah returned, and she was not empty handed.

“I found these inside one of the stalls,” she said, handing the items to Ethan. I recognized them immediately as the coat and scarf I’d seen on that woman earlier. Did that also mean I was correct as to whose clothes they were?

“No one else was in there,” Sarah said. “Only those.”

Damn. What did that even mean? I cast a worried glance at Ethan, whose attention was fixed on the clothes and then on me. “It must be a coincidence, Vin,” he tried to reassure me. “I mean, Caroline’s still locked up, you know that. And if by any chance they would be willing to let her out of the asylum, Troy would let us know, I have no doubt.”

I had no doubt either, but how to explain the clothes being left behind? As if the wearer were afraid she’d been recognized? Or was there something more sinister at work here? What if Chip, aka the Florida Mangler, somehow managed to escape custody and was now stalking us? Maybe I had talked about the insufferable actress after he’d kidnapped me and drugged me and… was I becoming increasingly more paranoid or what? Chip being on the loose would have definitely triggered an alert of the highest magnitude, and Anderson would have called us straightaway.

Of course, that still left us with four slashed tires. Luckily, our employer had us covered. We took seats on a couple of benches in the lobby of the rest area while Ethan called the insurance company and arranged for a tow to the nearest tire store. It was obvious that we couldn’t go with the tow truck driver, there were just too many of us, but Ethan had a solution for that too. Turns out Atkins had actual Uber drivers. We found one with a mini-van who was willing to pick us up. Sarah had the forethought to grab the car seat for Alex, luckily. Ethan asked the driver if she’d mind waiting while we got the car squared away. The man behind the counter said it would be ready in about three hours. What to do in the meantime?

We headed back to the Uber, unsure of our next move.

“Ma’am, we have some time to kill, what would you recommend?” Ethan asked.

The young woman cocked her head thoughtfully. “I like to go to the Settlers Museum when I have the time,” she confided.

The adults exchanged glances at the information. “Sounds good to me,” I volunteered.

“I like museums,” Sarah said. “Obviously. I worked in one.”

“It’s been a long time, I’d like to go,” Benny admitted.

“I think that settles it,” Ethan said as we piled into the mini-van once more. Off to the Settlers Museum of Southwest Virginia!

 to be continued

Now see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #29 (6.4) (formerly Rose and Thorne 6)

Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

I have an announcement to make today, although if you read the title of this post, you already know lol I have finally chosen a title for Rose and Thorne 6. I am calling it Bad Karma and the Family Plan. Hope you like it! Today we continue with the impromptu road trip taken by Vinnie and Ethan et al. What more can happen? Find out in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan! Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them! Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #29 (6.4)

Sarah caught up with Benny, and Ethan and I fell into step just behind them. We paused at the door to admit a group of people of various ages who had just arrived, loudly complaining about the cold and lack of Southern hospitality. They seemed to be dressed for the weather. Maybe they were the kind who found fault wherever they went.

As we made our own exit, a straggler from the group hurried toward the building and almost bowled me over, managing to step on my foot as she did. I started to say something but was momentarily struck silent. This woman seemed familiar. Brown wool coat. Green head scarf. Large reflective sunglasses. A warning chill coursed through my body as I tried to place the memory. Had I seen her somewhere or was I just imagining things? And then she swept inside the building and the moment had passed. I mentally shrugged, put it down to some paranoia on my part, all things considered, as we continued on to the car.

“Mommy will sure be glad when her big boy can ride in a booster seat,” Sarah mumbled as she leaned into the back to fasten Alex into the car seat. I could understand the necessity for such safety precautions, but I was also grateful that Benny didn’t require any such measures. The dog, not the uncle.

“Be careful what you wish for,” Ethan said. We were just behind her as Ethan generally walked me to my side of the car and opened the door. My boy was ever polite that way. Of course sometimes it was simply an excuse to sneak in another kiss. “Before you know it, he’ll—”

Whatever he’d been about to say became lost in his next exclamation of “What the fuck?”

My heart leapt into my chest even as my hand went to my gun. Then my eyes widened in horror as I saw what Ethan was looking at—both tires on that side had been slashed. When Benny echoed Ethan’s exclamation, I realized those tires had been vandalized as well.

I quickly glanced around the parking lot at the few vehicles that were there, including a large yellow school bus which must be the source of the group we met coming out. Most were empty except for one small compact car which was just pulling up. The occupants were an older couple, probably in their seventies. They exited their car along with a small dog on a leash. They paid us no attention, walking the dog to the grassy are next to the brick building. I was pretty sure they could be ruled out as suspects.

Sarah finished securing Alex then backed out of the car, regarding us apprehensively before she too saw the carnage someone had wrought. “Oh shit, do you think that was deliberate?” she blurted out before catching herself. “Of course it was. Tired don’t slash themselves, do they?”

“Not likely,” Ethan replied.

I had a sudden horrible thought as a memory surfaced of Ethan and I at the grocery store back in Roanoke, and my cart collision with a woman dressed just like the one I’d just seen. “Caroline St. Clair!”

Ethan’s brows flew up in surprise before drawing together in perplexity. “What do you mean?”

“You might think I’m crazy but I saw a woman who looks like her going into the building as we were coming out.”

Not wasting the breath to argue with me or tell me I was nuts, Ethan calmly said, “We need to get back inside anyway until we sort this situation out. No sense in being sitting ducks. Sorry, Sarah, can you get Alex?”

“Of course.” She instantly reached inside and unbuckled her son, who must have been confused at the change in plans. She held him close to her protectively as she slammed the door shut.

“I’ll go first,” Ethan said, taking point. He motioned to Benny to follow him, then Sarah and Alex, and I brought up the rear. We didn’t draw our weapons, but we were poised to do so if necessary. No sense in alarming the locals if we didn’t need to. As we moved cautiously up the steps toward the building, I could see the same group we’d passed before begin to emerge, two or three at a time. They were still complaining, this time about unsanitary conditions in the wash room. But I didn’t see the woman in the brown with the green scarf among them. She must still be inside. Assuming I’d even seen her.

There was no one inside other than an older man pushing a broom across the tile floor. He never looked at us, intent on what he was doing. As far as I could see, there was no back door. So what did that leave?

“Here.” Sarah pushed Ethan’s nephew at him. “So, what does she look like?”

“What? No,” Ethan protested even as I gave his twin a description of the woman I’d thought I’d seen. Chances were it was someone else entirely, but better safe than sorry. And I certainly couldn’t go into the ladies room.

“I’ll be fine,” Sarah assured him. I had a feeling she was finding this more exciting than she should have, but I wasn’t about to argue with her. Not waiting for a response, she disappeared through the door marked Ladies.

 to be continued

Now go visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

Wednesday Briefs: Rose and Thorne 6 #28 (6.3)

Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Rose and Thorne 6 #28 (6.3)

As we set out on our road trip, I wondered if traveling with a small child and a woman meant we’d have to make more frequent stops than usual. I didn’t have any experience with children—or women, for that matter, other than my mother, and we were never able to travel—but I had noticed during our brief time with Eva June that she tended to take time out for the ladies room on a fairly regular basis. No criticism, just an observation. We’d only been on the road for maybe an hour and a half when Sarah asked if we’d mind stopping. Ever the gentleman and good brother, Ethan pulled off the highway as soon as he was able and into a small rest area just outside of Atkins, Virginia. Smyth Safety Rest Area read the big blue sign on the small red brick building with arched doorways.

Sarah unbuckled Alex, said she’d be back in a minute, and headed up the steps to the building. Ethan, Benny, and I climbed out of the car and stretched our legs then tossed our trash into nearby receptacles.  I couldn’t help but notice this place boasted of having vending machines.

“Think they might have coffee here?” I asked Ethan hopefully. My first cup of the morning was long gone. He gave me a knowing grin. “What’s that look for?” I asked.

“Oh nothing,” he replied nonchalantly. “Would you like to see if they have any coffee?”

“If it’s not too much of a problem,” I replied. Hey, I could give as good as I got. And, just for the record, this was our normal routine, nothing unusual, although an outsider might think we were sniping at one other. We weren’t.

“I’ll admit I could use some too,” Benny interjected, and that sealed it. The three of us headed up the stairs in search of caffeine. I noticed just outside of the building stood a large wooden map, presumably of Virginia. Inside there was a smaller version, as well as a few travel brochures, no doubt courtesy of the Virginia Tourism Corporation.

I’d taken note of the other cars in the lot when we arrived. There were only a few not surprising as it was a Saturday, and not a particularly warm day at that. Even so, we had Benny to consider. We were his bodyguards, after all. It wasn’t inconceivable that he was being targeted. How they would deduce we were here was a matter for conjecture, but better safe than sorry.

The vending machine selection was limited but adequate to our needs. Three machines stood in one corner of the building. One contained snacks, another one soft drinks and water, and one blessed machine held hot beverages… such as coffee. Actually, it held a surprisingly better selection than that, and I opted for a latte, generously sweetened with extra cream.

Sarah emerged from the ladies room as we stood there, Alex in her arms. He was squirming to get down and walk under his own power, but she seemed reluctant to let him do so. Maybe fear of getting dirty. Or running off. Or maybe it was because we weren’t sure what was going on, the reason for this impromptu road trip. I couldn’t exactly say I blamed her for being cautious.

“Down!” Alex insisted in a determined no-nonsense voice that failed to impress anyone.

“I’ll watch him,” Benny offered.

Sarah eased her son down to the floor and he shot off toward the machine holding the snacks, reaching toward the glass. “Chips!” he said. “I want chips!” He turned expectant eyes toward Benny, who chuckled.

“I think we can do that,” he said before glancing at Sarah, belatedly realizing he should have asked first. “If it’s all right with Mom, I mean.”

“Mama, want chips!” Alex insisted. “Pwease!” He batted his big blue eyes at his mother, and I couldn’t help but think this is what Ethan must have been like as a little boy, and I was instantly enchanted. Sarah obviously felt the same way because she quickly caved.

“Okay,” she said. “What do you say to Uncle Benny?”

Alex looked baffled for a moment. Benny laughed.

“He has nothing to be thankful for yet. What about this kind?” He pointed to something not too spicy and Alex nodded. Benny pulled out a few coins from his pocket, dropped them in and pressed the appropriate buttons. The machine whirred into life and dispensed the correct item without any problems. Benny pulled the bag out and handed it to Alex.

“Thank you, Unka Benny!” Alex cheerfully chirped.

“You’re very welcome, Alex,” Benny responded. He looked wistfully from mother to child. I wondered what was going through his mind. The wasted years when he was estranged from his family? His lack of progeny? Or maybe something entirely different.

“There’s more snacks in the car,” Ethan reminded us. “But we should get going.”

He didn’t say it, but I knew he didn’t want to stay in any one place too long, just in case.

On our way out, I noticed Sarah paused to pick up a couple of the brochures. Ethan stopped beside her. ‘You okay?” he asked in a concerned voice.

His twin looked up at him, shifting Alex on her hip a little. “I will be,” she said after a long moment. “I’m sorry about—”

“No need,” Ethan cut her off. “It’s a done deal. I just want you to be happy, that’s all.”

“I know, and I appreciate that.” Ethan gave her a quick hug, and all was well with the world again. At least for now

 to be continued

Now go visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

Wednesday Briefs: Rose and Thorne 6 #27 (6.2)

Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

What was originally supposed to be Vinnie and Ethan flying with Uncle Benny to Atlanta has become an actual road trip that includes Ethan's sister and her child. See what's going on in this week's chapter of Rose and Thorne. Don't forget to see what the other Briefers are up to. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Rose and Thorne 6 #27 (6.2)

Ethan turned up the heater in the car as we left the gas station, out of deference to his passengers, I knew. Not that he wouldn’t have done it for me, but I normally didn’t complain about the cold.  The current temperature was only about thirty-five degrees, so pretty chilly for Virginia. I knew it wouldn’t feel so bad once we were on the road and the sun had a real chance to warm everything up. Back in Joliet, we’d consider this a heat wave, especially for February, but Southerners weren’t used to the same frigid temps I’d had to endure growing up. Snow for them was a freak occurrence, one they were seldom prepared for. But both states had one thing in common… motor vehicle operators who had no idea how to handle themselves in the snow. I guess that just goes to show that bad drivers can be found just about anywhere.

To be honest, this whole situation felt completely surreal. Ethan’s sister, uncle, and nephew in the back seat, laughing and chatting and watching little Alex eat his breakfast.  Ethan and I sitting up front, like the old married couple we almost were. We were lucky to have borrowed a car seat from Laverne when we knew Alex was coming, since the Commonwealth of Virginia required all children below the age of seven be properly secured in either a child safety seat or a booster seat. He seemed content to eat his chicken and biscuit. When he was done, and his mother had cleaned him up, she gave him some kind of tablet, to my amazement. Children were learning how to operate computers almost from birth it seemed. No wonder they were so good at it. Alex certainly seemed to enjoy playing with his.

By mutual consent, the subject of the baby daddy was not brought up. I don’t think any of us were prepared to have that particular discussion. Instead, it was happy memories of more innocent times. Benny had been a big part of their lives once he’d gotten out of prison. I imagine Joseph Thorne saw an opportunity to portray himself as a charitable benefactor in the rehabilitation of his brother-in-law. You know, good Christian and all that. Up until the moment when he realized Benny was gay and cast him out. Because that’s what good Christians do.

Sorry, sore subject with me. I shouldn’t paint all Christians with that brush. That’s no better than their open homophobia. In this case, it was the minister just being a bigot, end of story.

They spoke to one another in such loving and familiar terms that my heart swelled just to listen to them. Once upon a time, I might have been bitter and somewhat envious of their obvious closeness and the love they all shared. But having found Ethan, I’d come to know a love I’d never thought possible, and I no longer felt excluded, as I once had. An outsider living on the periphery of everyone else’s existence. I was really and truly loved, and that was the most wonderful feeling in the world.

I couldn’t help but wonder what odd twist of fate had brought us all together, here and now, when our paths had seemed to be set on separate courses but had now converged. Coincidence, of course. I wasn’t so much concerned with the brief appearance of Sarah’s ex as I was with what was going on with Benny. First the fire alarm at the hotel, then the attempt on his life, which I had to assume was targeted at Benny and not just random happenstance. Then the threat at the airport which had necessitated this road trip. Was Benny’s ex really that concerned with the testimony he was about to give, or was there something else going on here that we didn’t fully understand. Either way, I knew we had to be particularly vigilant.

 to be continued

Now go see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb