THE UNSEEN
BY
Anita Larrison
Smashwords
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Published by
Anita Larrison on Smashwords
© 2012 by Anita Larrison
This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the author’s imagination and used fictitiously
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Chapter 1
The rain was gently falling in Mobile, Alabama. Chase was sleeping in. Today was his 30th Birthday. He slowly woke, smelling his favorite smell, blueberries. Making him breakfast in bed, was something his wife Joy did each year. He smiled, knowing his wife, and their little daughter Lydia were getting everything ready. He thought about pretending to be sleeping when they brought in his breakfast.
Quickly thinking it over, he decided to pretend. He pulled the blanket up getting comfortable, wiggling his way down into his soft quilted blanket. While waiting, he heard raindrops hitting the window by his bed. He moved the curtain over and peeked out, he noticed it was raining hard. He loved watching, and listened to the rain. There was something about rain that was soothing to him. He laid there snuggled- up in his blanket, watching the rain.
Moments later, he heard footsteps and giggling in the hallway. Quickly closing the curtain, he rolled over and shut his eyes. The door opens and three year old Lydia yells out to her Daddy.
“Daddy wake up we got bluebewies!!”
Chase looked up and saw Joy carrying a tray with blueberry pancakes. The delightful smell filled the room.
"Sweetie don’t scare Daddy.” Joy said giggling.
Chase immediately jumped up in his bed, and let out a goofy sound. It startled Lydia, she blinked her eyes, and erupted in a cute belly laugh. Chase grabbed her, throwing her gently on the bed. And started tickling her, first under her arms, then on her little belly.
"Okay you two be careful,” Joy said playfully. After settling down, Lydia Told her Daddy.
"Okay, Daddy you eat."
Chase looked down at his pancakes with the pat of butter on top, and the syrup gently gliding down the sides.
“Yummy.” Chase said in a goofy voice.
Lydia giggled and looked at her Daddy’s pancakes. "Daddy, I help you eat them all up?”
“What?” Chase asked in a silly voice, “You’re going to help me eat all these pancakes?” She smiled a charming smile. He smiled back.
“How ‘bout we all share Daddy’s birthday pancakes?" Chase suggested. Joy smiled and exclaimed, “Wait don‘t move!”
She left the bedroom and went back to the kitchen. She’d already made Lydia and herself a plate. She brought their plates to the room, so they could all eat together. They sat on the bed together, and shared Chase's tray. Lydia ate happily and sloppily.
Chase thought Lydia was so adorable, her light brown hair was pulled back in a blue bow, and her dark blue eyes could make anyone smile. Chase stared at his wife. He loved looking at her. She was so beautiful, her long brown hair, and blue eyes. Her skin a very light brown. He thought about how Lydia looked so much like her Mother.
Both had features so beautiful, it was as if someone had purposely fashioned them. Like beautiful collector dolls, put on display, that somehow came to life. Chase still gazing at his wife replied, “You’re so beautiful.”
“Oh stop!” Joy said, becoming embarrassed.
“Well you are. And Lydia looks just like you.”
“I think she looks more like you.” Joy replied.
They both smiled and leaned in for a kiss. After breakfast was over and cleaned up, Chase decided to take a shower, and get dressed.
They usually spent Saturdays cleaning the house, then doing something fun as a family. But since today was his birthday, he wondered what restaurant Joy was planning. Joy always had a birthday dinner out on his birthday. And his sister would show up trying to surprise him each year.
However, the last couple of years she’d been asking him where he’d like to go. His answer, always the same. “Anywhere y’all wanna go.” Chase jumped in the shower, while Joy was straightening up the living room. Lydia was playing with her toys in her room.
Chase was in the shower soaping up when Joy shouted, “What did you want to do today?” Chase had to struggle to hear her through the sound of the shower.
“I really don’t know, what did you want to do?” Joy realizing he was in the shower, and probably couldn’t hear very well, went to the bathroom, sticking her head in the door.
“Sorry honey, I didn’t realize you were in the shower.”
“Oh that’s okay.”
“Well its your birthday, I wanted to know if there’s anything special you’d like to do?”
“Hanging out with y’all is good enough for me.” Chase said while scrubbing his arms.
“Chase you say that every year.” Joy said mildly frustrated.
“I just wanna hang out that’s it.”
“Oh, okay then, I guess I’ll do like I do every year.”
“Aw your too sweet babe, Lets do whatever you want today.”
“Okay, but you’re sure?” Joy asked.
“Whatever you want.” He confirmed.
“I was thinking of planting today, but I’m not sure if I really want to. Hmm, I can’t think.” Chase decided to tease her, to get her to play-fight.
“You don’t need to think, you just need to do what I say.” Chase informed her, messing with her.
Joy recognized his condescending tone immediately. The one he used to get her to play-fight with him. She smiled, pulled back the shower curtain and gave him an evil look, and told him.
"Oh, it’s on baby!"
"Oh, is it?” He laughed.
"Yes it is." Joy confirmed.
Joy had a wild idea, that would blow him away, something she’d never done before. It might borderline on going to far, she thought, but she felt like going for it anyway. She’d played pranks on him before, but this one was a true test of his demeanor.
She went to her bedroom, and opened her dresser drawer, inside was her hair accessories. And there in a small white box, she kept her rubber bands. She planned to pop him on his tush.
She smiled a devilish smile, and proceeded with her plan. She took the rubber band, and with an evil grin, headed toward the bathroom.
"Its awful quiet out there." Chase said smiling, and feeling a bit nervous. Joy kept quiet to keep the fun going.
"Somebody must be up to no good." He said while reaching for the shampoo, and putting a squirt in his palm then lathering up his hair. While he was shampooing, she inched her way into the bathroom quietly, armed and dangerous. He noticed a presence, and said nervously.
“Is that you, Joy?”
As quietly as she could, she pulled the shower curtain open. It was open just enough to reach her hand and weapon in.
Joy took aim at his defenseless tush. And Giggling to herself, she sent the rubber band flying. Almost immediately the snap was heard, followed by him yelling, “What the!?”
He put both of his shampooed hands on his tush. Startled, he jumped, and clocked his head on the shower wall. Causing insult to injury.
Joy who was watching everything from behind the shower curtain laughed so hard she rolled in the bathroom floor.
"You’re so mine! you’re going to so regret that woman!” He warned between growling laughs.
Joy thought maybe she’d overdone it and got herself in a world of hurt. Yet she didn’t want him to know she was nervous, and provoking him further told him.
"Bring it on!”
“Oh! I will.” He told her firmly.
His firm voice added to Joy’s nervousness. Joy left the bathroom, and went into her little girls room. Where she thought she’d be safe. This kind of playing electrified Joy and the nervousness was an added thrill. She sat down on the floor next to Lydia, and started playing with her.
After playing for a while, Lydia smiled and told her Mommy. “Mommy baby is thirsty.” Joy got a plastic lid from the pile of toys.
"Here's a drink thirsty baby.” Joy said, While she looked around for Chase. Then Chase yelled out to warn Joy, "Don’t think Lydia can save you, because its payback time!”
“I don’t.” Joy lied.
After playing a while longer with Lydia, Joy saw Chase standing in the doorway. Fully dressed in her favorite red shirt and denim Jeans He was clean-shaven and flushed with excitement. Smelling and looking absolutely delicious.
The smell of his cologne, and the sight of him looking so very hot, momentarily immobilized her. She forgot all about him planning an attack, she became absentminded by his appearance.
Without speaking a word he walked over, and took her hands gently, pulling her to her feet. She was wobbly, and weak at the knees. He had no problem lifting her up, and over his shoulders. Joy suddenly remembers that he’s in the process of getting her back. And she starts to fight and squirm. He spoke firmly telling her.
"No squirming around.” Followed by a sharp smack on her tush. She whined, but managed to holler out a simple, "Hey!" in her defense, knowing he wouldn’t care. Becoming limber, and unable to squirm anymore. She gives in to his wrath. Secretly loving it.
"Hey what? I warned you its payback time!” He teased while faking an evil sounding laugh. He carried her to their bedroom, gently letting her free-fall on the bed. He looked at her with wild passion in his eyes. She returned his look, the game was over. He covered her body with his own, and began kissing her. Joy thought his lips felt soft, heavy, and hot.
They wanted to make-love but unfortunately the timing wasn’t right. They had things to attend, and they needed to take care of Lydia. Without warning, Lydia ran into the room giggling, she ran up to her Daddy and pushed him because she wanted to play too. Chase started playing and wrestling with Lydia.
He picked her up and started spinning her around. She was giggling her head off, and becoming dizzy. He put her feet on the floor, gently holding her hands, till he thought she could walk alone. She was dizzy, and walked around like a drunk.
“Look at her.” Chase laughed. She cracked him up.
“Chase!!” Joy said irritated, “Stop it!”
“What? she likes it.” Chase said defensively.
“She might get to dizzy and throw up.” Joy complained.
“We’re just having fun, she’ll be okay.”
Joy just shook her head, somewhat annoyed then turned on the TV.
“I’m going to turn on the weather channel.”
“Sounds good.” Chase agreed.
They sat down and watched weather channel together. Even Lydia calmed down to watch. The weather on the eights promised sunshine for the rest of the entire day.
"Yes!!" Joy said realizing she really did want to plant.
Joy looked outside the rainy clouds had subsided and the sun took its place.
"What time is it?" Joy asked.
"Um 12:30.”
“Where'd the morning go?" Joy playfully questioned.
“Hmm, I know where. No more naughtiness out of you!” Chase said pointing at her.
"Me, I’m not that bad.” Joy teased.
Lydia started rubbing her eyes, looking tired.
“Uh oh. I think its time for a little lunch and nap.” Joy suggested.
"NO nap!" Lydia whined, then fell on her bottom and cried.
“OHHH.” Chase groaned, “somebody's cranky."
"No cwanky!" Lydia snapped angrily.
“Well are you hungry?” Joy nicely asked her cranky girl.
She calmed down just enough to tell her Mommy what she wanted.
"I want oolies."
Chase couldn’t understand her, and looked to Joy for clarification.
"It means she wants raviolis" Joy explained in a hurried voice. While grabbing her gardening gloves, out of the kitchen drawer.
"Running away?” Chase questioned jokingly.
“The sun is out. You can handle things without me right?”
“No, you’re fine, but do you think she’ll eat?” He questioned.
“Maybe, you can try.” Joy mentioned as she started walking out the door. “I’m off to see if I can plant anything in the wet ground.” Chase smiled and gave her a peck on the cheek, and she was out the door.
"Well looks like its Daddy time." Chase said sweetly while looking over at Lydia. Then Lydia happily screamed, "Oolies!!!!"
“Right, oolies.” Chase laughed while he checked the pantry for a can.
He found three cans. He took one and opened it, pouring its contents inside her favorite blue bowl. He micro-waved it, and as soon as the timer went off Lydia excited shouted, "Oolies!!"
“Yes, oolies!” Chase cheered having fun with her.
He checked the food making sure it wasn’t too hot. Then put her bowl on the table. He reached down and picked Lydia up. And sat her down in her booster chair. He handed her the blue bowl and spoon, then got her a cup of milk. Lydia saw him pour the milk, then she pointed at the chocolate mix sitting on the table and told her daddy, “Me want Chalet.”
Chase mixed in the chocolate, and gave her the cup. Chase sat with her helping her use her spoon, when he heard the television still on in the bedroom. Realizing, they had forgot to turn the weather channel off.
“Daddy will be right back.”
"Okay." Lydia replied.
He walked to the bedroom to turn the television off, right before he turned the TV off. He heard thunderstorms some possibly severe later that night for Mobile. He headed back to the dinning room to check on Lydia. Meanwhile, Lydia had stuffed to many raviolis in her mouth, and had it dripping all over her face. Chase smiled and thought she looked adorable.
He walked over and got a cloth out of the kitchen drawer, wetting it, then squeezed it out. And took it over to Lydia and began washing her face. After she finished her last bite. Lydia announced, "All gone!”
Chase finished cleaning her up, and asked if she needed to go potty. Lydia said yes. After he helped her go to the potty, he took her to her bed. He laid her down with her favorite stuffed zebra she called Z.
He gave her the toy and said to her, “Go sleepy-time with Z.”
He left the room it was quiet, he was surprised she didn’t protest. He thought she must really be sleepy. Later he checked on her, and she was to his surprise fast asleep. He decided to go outside to check on Joy. He wanted to see how her planting was going.
He walked outside and saw Joy over by the garage. He walked over and Joy was looking at her pots of azaleas.
“Want some help?” He asked. She spun around and looked at him.
"Well, I could use a pair of strong arms to help me carry the pots.”
"I think I can handle that." Chase grabbed a couple of pots.
After carrying them over he placed them down carefully, by her small flower garden in the front yard by the porch. Joy kissed his cheek as a thank-you. He smiled and sat down on the porch watching Joy plant her azaleas. As she worked the soil. Chase started thinking about the storm shelter. The door needed to be fixed. He’d been meaning to get that done.
“You know, I think I’ll go take a look at that storm shelter door its got a loose hinge.”
"Sounds good." Joy said, as she continued her work.
Chase walked over to the shelter, he thought about how old it was. His Dad built it when he was nine. Two of his Dads close friends helped design, and build it. literally from the ground up. Memories of his parents, and his child-hood on the farm, filled his mind. Filling his eyes with tears. He was trying not to get emotional, but it was difficult. He’d never imagined his life without his parents.
Him and his Dad always said that they were going to take a week-end guy-trip together. And spend some real time, because his Dad was always busy with the farm, and Chase with his job. That weekend never happened. It still pained him to think of the car accident that took his parents life a year ago.
It hurt knowing his little girl would never see what great parents he had.
Chase promised himself, that he would make sure, she knew what great people they were. He was just thankful that Joy's parents were very sweet, kind and responsible people. They at least were blessed in that way.
Chase wiped his eyes and tried to get himself together. Then walked into the garage to get the tools he needed. He took the loose hinge off the storm shelter and replaced it. After checking to make sure it was secure. He headed back to the garage to put his tools away. He noticed Joy back in the garage. He walked in putting his tools away, while Joy was grabbing her last two pots.
"How’d it go?” She asked.
“Fine.” He said flatly.
"Are you okay?” She questioned.
"I’m fine, why?”
"Chase, don’t do this. Don’t hide your feelings from me.”
Chase looked down, then he slowly looked up meeting her eyes with his. She saw his tears, and reached for him. He went into her arms and they held each other. Joy held him tight, he cried quietly in her arms. His quiet crying, made her cry too, she also loved his parents. When they were dating, his parents treated her like a daughter.
After comforting each other, Joy boldly told him, "I believe, we will be together again after this life, I hold to that hope. Without that hope, things don’t make sense to me. This life we live together would be for nothing.”
Chase nodded, and told her, "Sometimes it’s hard to believe in anything.”
"I know baby, that’s why you have to hang on tight, and believe it. God has helped me many times, and in many different situations, to be luck or chance.”
"I love you.”
"I love you too.” She said, “to me your like a walking miracle in my life.” Little did Joy know, that a violent storm that night, would prove just how true her words will turn out to be. Chase stood looking at her beautiful face.
"How can you be so beautiful, on the inside and out?"
"Chase, stop." Joy said playfully. “Now help me take the last two pots to the front yard.”
Chase grabbed the last two pots and they walked up to the front porch. Joy again started working the soil. And Chase sat watching her. As she worked she decided to question Chase about his plans with the farm.
"Have you decided yet what you want to do with the farm?”
"I don’t know.”
“Your Dad grew cotton, peanuts and soybeans".
Chase nodded to show he was listening, but she could tell he’d rather not talk about it.
"Well I don’t know yet Joy, I mean, I’m scared. I started working at 16 at JC foods, and I’ve worked there ever since. And now I’m a manager."
"Yes you are, and a good one too, your good at managing and book-keeping. And book-keeping is an important part of farm management. Chase, you have a computer you can use to keep track of the farms income. And your expenses for production materials and equipment.” she explained matter-of-fact-like.
"Hmm how’d you get so smart?” He smiled.
“I got my ways. Besides, your Dad left you the farm as an inheritance, don’t you want to keep it going in his memory?”
"You’re right, I do need to seriously think about this.”
“Remember your Best friend Jake? He opened his restaurant, over in Oaks plaza. He worked with you at JC Foods a long time. And he ventured out and tried something new. I just want you to think about it. I’ll shut-up now.” Chase smiled. He knew she had his best interest at heart.
Chapter 2
Chase walked back into the house and decided to go into the storage room, to check out some of his Dads farming books. His Dad was very resourceful. He remembered his Dad always reading books when he was growing up. And he would say to his Dad.
“Dad your reading again?"
“A smart person is one who knows where to find all the answers.”
His Dad would always say. Chase never thought much about it back then, but now realizes how valuable these books could be to him, if he decides to farm.
He found a mountain of books, the whole side of the storage wall was nothing but books. He felt a little overwhelmed, then reached for a book. He took a book from a pile closest to him. It was titled Careers In Agriculture.
He picked up the book, and memories flooded his mind. He remembered helping his Dad on the farm, but nothing to significant. His Dad was more interested in him doing well in school. And succeeding in more educational practices, sports and music.
Things Chase’s Grandpa never let his Dad do enough of, according to his Dad. Chase’s Grandpa made his Dad work hard on the farm, leaving little time for learning. He remembered that his Dad wanted something very different for him.
Chase started to walk out with book in hand, until he saw his Mother’s piano. He remembered that old piano. His Mother used to give piano lessons when he was a child. His Mother also taught him to play.
Chase remembered his mother and the beautiful memories of just the two of them at the piano. Chase suddenly dropped the book, it made a loud thud, bringing him back to the present.
He realized it had been a long time since he was in this storage room. It smelled weird, and it was very dusty. He took another book from the pile, this one was titled Centuries Of Life On The Land. He thought that one sounded interesting. He took the book, and left the storage room.
He went into the living room and grabbed his new reading glass’s off the coffee table. And he began reading. He didn’t like having to wear reading glasses. However, he did enjoy not having to strain his eyes anymore. Later, Lydia woke up from her nap and came into the living room. Lydia climbed up on the couch, and sat next to him. He looked at her and smiled.
"Hey there's my girl." she smiled and asked him, "What's that?" Her finger pointing to his glasses.
"Oh that's right Daddy got new glasses.”
“Oh” she replied, "They are Purdy."
“Thank you.” Chase said politely, hoping to teach her good manners.
"Daddy read me books!" Before he could answer, she ran to her room. She brought a big stack of books, she could barely carry. Chase could see her struggling and decided he’d better help.
"Wow what a big stack of books for a little girl to carry.” He laughed.
She crawled up on the couch as fast as her little body would allow. Chase could see she was very excited.
"Which book do you want Daddy to read first?" He asked. She pointed to one that had a picture of a zebra on it, titled Zebra Friends.
“Oh good choice.” Chase told her while opening the book. He started reading to her, Lydia loved every moment. After a few minutes into the book, she looked around and realized she didn’t have her favorite toy Z.
"Daddy I go get Z."
"Oh, okay.” Chase agreed smiling.
She crawled down as fast as she could go. She ran to her room and grabbed Z from off her bed, and ran back to the couch. She again climbed up on the couch fast as her little body could and sweetly said, "Z want to hear too."
"Oh, okay." Chase said happily. As soon as he finished reading the book, Lydia begged, "Read more Daddy please."
"Okay.” Chase agreed.
He grabbed another book. This book had a sun, moon, and stars, on the cover and it was titled, In The Sky. After Chase told Lydia the name of the book Lydia informed her daddy, "The sun is outside.”
“Yes it is.” Chase stated. “You’re a very smart girl.”
“Yes me is.” Lydia said confidently. As they started on the book Joy came in from outside. Lydia without moving an inch off the couch greeted her Mommy.
"Hi Mommy! Daddy's reading.”
“I see that.” Joy said with a grin. “Well its 4:30 I was thinking I’d take a shower. I’m covered in dirt, and mud.” Chase looked at her with an evil grin, and teased her saying, “Shower, huh?"
"Yes and you better behave if you know what’s good for you.” Joy looked back at him and gave him a wink.
Joy was so dirty, she couldn’t wait to get showered. She turned on the shower, turning it pretty hot. She loved nice long hot showers. She undressed, and got in and let the water go all over her head and shoulders, it felt so good, relaxing her tight muscles.
She reached for her sweet pea body wash, one of her favorite fragrances. She grabbed her body sponge and soaped up, the soap felt so good. It had moisturizers in it, making her skin feel smooth and soft. After she washed her body, she grabbed her strawberry shampoo, it smelled so sweet and fruity. She loved the way it made her hair smell.
After she finished her shower, she bunched her hair up in a towel, and grabbed her favorite beach towel and wrapped her body in it. She walked into her room, and opened her closet door. She looked through her wardrobe for something suitable for Chases Birthday dinner.
She wanted to look casual yet sexy. She remembered she had bought two new spring dresses, and hadn't worn one yet. She picked out the blue dress with white strips, it had a low back and came down almost to her knee, perfect she thought.
As she dressed, she could still hear Chase reading to Lydia. She thought about what a good father he was, and how lucky she felt that he was in her life. Joy looked in the mirror, she thought that the dress looked nice. She went into the bathroom to put on a little make-up. She heard Lydia running down the hall, she ran into the bathroom with Joy and asked, "Mommy why you doing that?"
"I’m putting on make-up."
"Why?” Lydia questioned puzzled.
“I want to look pretty."
“Mommy, can me too?"
Joy looked at her sweet little face and answered, “You sure can, lets put on a pink lip gloss.”
Joy put a nice light pink lip gloss on her. Lydia wanted to look in the mirror, so Joy held her up so she could look at herself. She smiled really big.
"I Purdy.” Lydia exclaimed smiling ear to ear with her little pink glossy lips. Joy laughed and said to her, “You sure are.”
Joy was admiring just how cute Lydia looked. Chase came into the bathroom, and told them both, “You’re both beautiful, y’all don’t need any make-up.”
Joy laughed and pushed him away playfully, "I think you’re bias."
“Maybe, but its still true.” Chase stood firm in his belief.
"Wow its her first lip gloss," Joy mentioned sadly.
“Well now. I don’t think it really counts yet.” Chase explained giving her a funny look.
“You’re right,” Joy agreed giggling at how silly she was being. “I guess I’m being silly, she's only a baby still." Joy said thoughtfully.
"Exactly.” Chase replied. "You need to slow way down.”
She looked at him teasingly and said to him, “Slow down, huh?” Joy whispered in his ear, giving him a sexy- teasing look.
“Hey, now, you know what I mean.” Chase answered then started kissing her neck. Joy giggled, then pulled away.
"Is my dress functional for tonight?" Joy stated knowing full-well she looked good.
“Functional? Really?” Chase replied.
“That’s what I said.” She teased.
“That’s a definite understatement.” Chase told her while staring at her. He couldn’t seem to take his eyes off her.
"Good.” Joy nodded, smiling. “Because I want to look nice for you.” Joy turned to look in his eyes.
“Well you did an excellent job." Chase agreed still staring at her. Joy took his face in her hands and kissed him long and passionately.
“Yummy” Chase whispered in her ear.
“I thought you’d like that” She told him, puckering her lips toward him.
“Maybe we should stay home, and put Lydia to bed early tonight? Joy started laughing, and shook her head no.
"Now where would you like to go?” Joy asked still shaking her head no to his idea of staying home.
“Hey! lets go to Jake’s restaurant, Big Jake’s.”
“Big Jake’s it is.” Joy said confirming Chase’s wishes.
“What time is it now?” Chase asked impatiently.
“Well, lets see its 6:15.”
"Perfect I’ll have Lydia get her sandals, and we can go. Lydia go get your sandals. And daddy will help you put them on.” Lydia ran to her room, and came back with one sandal. Joy noticed the one sandal.
“They’re lost again.” Joy said. Lydia made a pouting face.
“I sorry Mommy.” Lydia said sadly.
"It’s Okay sweetheart, we’ll find it.” Joy reassured her.
Twenty minutes later, after looking in her room, their bedroom, and all over the living room. They decided to move the couch, and look behind it, and there it was. Chase asked Lydia.
“How’d it get here?”
Lydia innocently replied, "I don’t know Daddy, I put it in me room.” Lydia said sounding honest.
“Good enough explanation from a three year old wouldn’t you agree?” Chase said as he made a weird face at Joy.
“Sounds reasonable to me.” Joy said giggling. “Y’all go on out and get in the car, I need to use the bathroom, then I’ll be right out.”
“Sounds good babe.”
Joy didn’t need to use the bathroom. She wanted to call his sister to have them meet up at Big Jake’s. It was a surprise for Chase, or what Abby liked to call a surprise. Which was her showing up at his Birthday dinner unannounced every year.
As if Chase wasn’t going to remember that she’d done it every year. His sister Abby lived only 30 minutes away, after a couple of rings Abby answered her cell.
"Hello," she said sounding rushed.
"Hey Abby,"
“Where did he decide he wanted to go?” Abby asked.
“Big Jake’s." Joy said with a giggle. thinking of their play-fight earlier.
"Okay, what’s funny?"
"Nothing, it’s just Chase. I was thinking about something he did earlier.”
“Uh-oh you two play fighting again?” Abby teased.
“Something like that.” Joy laughed.
“Y’all some crazy, well hold the phone got to ask hubby for some directions.” Joy could hear Abby asking her husband if he had heard of the place. He told her he thought it was in the Oaks plaza. Abby asked Joy, to make sure.
"Is it in the Oaks Plaza?"
“Yep that’s it. Jeez, I could’ve told you that Abby.”
“Oops, sorry. Wasn’t thinking. Okay, see y’all over there. Oh, Wait! Don’t hang up! Before I forget, I was planning to call the restaurant to see if they’ll make him a Birthday cake. Some places do that.”
“That sounds pretty cool.” Joy said excited.
“Good then see y’all there.” Abby said happily.
“Yep, bye.” Joy said, quickly closing her cell, and heading to the car. She opened the door and got in, Chase looked at her and asked, “Did everything come out okay?”
At first, Joy didn’t understand his question. Then after she thought about it, she realized she told him she was going to use the bathroom. Joy laughed and made a disgusted face.
“Stop being gross.” Joy playfully scolded.
“Daddy you gwoss.” Lydia said laughing, even though she didn’t understand the punch line.
“Sorry, I couldn’t help myself.” Chase said still smiling.
Joy made a disguised face and playfully slapped his leg then started to buckle her seat-belt. As soon as she had clicked her belt, her parents drove up with a balloon hanging out the window. Joy smiled, and got out of the car to greet them. Her parents got out of their car. Her Dad, Rob, was carrying a gift wrapped in pretty bright blue paper.
“Hey y'all.” Joy's mom said “We were in the neighborhood, and thought we'd drop off his gift.” Then handed Chase his balloon.
“Oh, thanks Liz." Chase said sounding very appreciative.
“Well open it already, it cost me 80 bucks." Rob said pointing and smiling.
"Rob!" Liz shouted, feeling embarrassed.
“Oh, it’s okay. I understand.” Chase said, he opened it eagerly not wanting to seem ungrateful.
“Wow!” He exclaimed, “It’s a foot water treatment spa.”
“Cool.” Joy said happily, “I’ll use it too.”
“Oh looks like were going to be fighting over it.” Chase said smiling.
“Hey, thanks Mom and Dad.” Chase said putting it in the car. Joy’s parents walked over and gave him a hug.
“You can give that balloon to Lydia if ya want to.” Liz said.
“Yeah, I will. She’ll love it. Hey, we’re going out to Big Jake’s for dinner, y’all wanna come?” Chase said in a polite yet hurried voice.
"Oh, no.” Liz said, “We’re going to watch some television, and have a sandwich, nothing fancy, then we’ll probably go to bed.”
“Okay, thank you for the gift.” Chase said waving goodbye.
“Yes, thanks Mom and Dad.” Joy said blowing them a kiss.
“Well, before we go I’d like to peek at Lydia in the car.” Liz said happily, “Hi, Lydia. How’s my girl?” Liz said smiling at Lydia.
“Me okay.” Lydia said excitedly. She loved to see Grandma.
“Good. Want to spend the night with Grandma soon?”
“Yes me do.” Lydia said smiling.
“Well good. Joy, why don’t you bring her over next Friday night and we can have some grandma and grandpa time? Just the three of us.”
“Sure, Mom. No problem, she’ll love it!”
“Okay y’all, Grandma needs to get going.”
“Okay Mom, y’all have a nice night.”
“We will dear. Y’all have a good dinner too and happy Birthday Chase.” Liz said as she got back into her car.
“Okay, bye Mom and Dad. Love you.” Joy and Chase said in unison.
Chase and Joy began getting back into their car. Joy still looking surprised told Chase with her eyes widened, “Wow, I didn’t expect that.”
“I know, me either.” Chase said handing his Birthday balloon to Lydia. Lydia giggled and started pulling the balloon up and down.
“Now to the Birthday Dinner!” Chase said as he pulled out of the driveway.
When Chase turned into Big Jake’s parking lot, Chase noticed his sister Abby's car.
“Hey, that wouldn’t be Abby's car?” Chase said being sarcastic.
“I don’t know smart guy, she only does this every year.” Joy said teasingly.
Chase stared at Joy and rolled his eyes and laughed. They walked in the restaurant Chase saw Abby and Scott and their kids. Mike 5, and Brent 3. All waiting in the guest area.
“Hey big brother!” Abby said smiling and holding a big red box.
“OH NO!” Chase said “what is this?”
“Ha ha!” Abby said, “Not ‘til after your Birthday cake.”
“Oh, you’re kidding me right!” Chase said embarrassed. “I have to suffer through birthday cake too?”
“Oh shut up!” Joy said playfully, “You know you love it.”
Chase smiled at her then walked over to the counter to look at the menu.
“Wow they have all kinds of Big Jake hotdogs.” Chase said amazed.
“I didn’t know there was that many different ways to fix up a hot dog.” Joy said while reading the menu.
Chase’s best friend Jake walked up behind him, and said to him. “Yes we have any kind of dog you want, and if we don’t have it, we will make it special for you.”
“Hey Jake!” Chase said surprised. “You doing okay?” Chase reached out and hugged him.
“I’m doing great bud, my new restaurant is really kicking butt.”
“That’s sweet.” Chase said excited, “I’m glad things are going good for you.”
“They’re going great, thanks. Hey, I’ll catch you later, got some things to take care of, okay?”
“Oh, hey no problem, catch you in a few.” Chase answered back. “So does everyone know what they want yet?” Chase asked with a big grin.
Everyone seemed to know, so they started ordering. All the kids had a kid pack cheesy dog, and the adults ordered the works. Soon as their order came up, just as they sat down with their dogs. Jake was back again, and was carrying a Birthday cake specially made.
“Hey!” Chase said, “What you got there?”
“Well, it’s your cake dude, on the house.” Jake said all smiles.
“Oh man, no way!” Chase said sounding like a little boy.
“You’re my best friend, and… your sister twisted my arm.” Jake smiled looking over at Abby, giving her a wink.
Jake remembered all the good times they’d had together. Jake choking up in tears told him, “I miss them too.”
Chase felt himself become emotional and fought it. Jake immediately changed subjects, “Hey the meal tonight is on the house, my treat.” Jake said.
“You’re Awesome!”
“Sure, no problem. Love you Chase, and Happy Birthday.” Jake said walking away tending to some business.
“Well,” stated Chase, “these dogs look delicious, lets dig in.” Everyone got busy grabbing their hotdog and taking bites.
“They are great.” Abby said with a mouthful.
After everyone finished up their meal. Abby started lighting candles on the cake. There were 30 actual Birthday candles, that he would have to blow out. Abby lit every single one, taking her a time staring at him laughing.
“Ah do I really have to, why all the candles what about those number candles jeez. Are you just trying to burn this place down” He complained, yet secretly loving the attention.
“I'm just trying to make you uncomfortable, its my job as your sister don’t you know that.” Abby said teasing him.
They went through the whole Birthday ritual, singing the birthday song, blowing out the candles, while Abby took pictures. Abby loved taking pictures she took dozens of pictures at every family get together. She was also a professional photographer and had her own small studio in her home.
After cutting the cake, and everyone was happily stuffing their face. Abby pulled out the big red box.
“Oh man,” Chase said, “should I be afraid?”
“No, not at all why should you be?” Abby said sarcastically, knowing full well she was a practical joker. She loved messing with people.
“I don’t know about this,” Chase said reluctantly. “ but I guess.” He agrees laughing. She hands him the gift and Chase notices all the candy on top.
“Oh okay this doesn’t look to bad, I do like chocolate.”
“See!” Abby said innocently, “You worried for nothing.”
“Well, I’m not done yet.”
Abby eagerly watched as Chase found the small can. He took it out and mumbled, “This looks like it could end badly. What is it? Come on Abby come clean.” He pressed with suspicion.
“It’s a present.” Abby said matter-of-fact like.
Chase opened it and a wire snack jumped out, the kids screamed and laughed. Chase jumped a little, even though he knew something was up, because he knew his sister.
“Wow, real original.” He said flatly.
“Shut-up and finish.” Abby said playfully.
Chase reached into the box and pulled out a T-shirt. It was blue. He opened the shirt to read it, it said Superman. He smiled at Abby he knew exactly why she bought that. She smiled back at him.
“Can I tell the story?” Abby asked as if she was a little girl again.
“I… I… guess so.” Chase said hesitating feeling a little embarrassed.
“When Chase was a kid,” she said in an excited voice, “he loved to play-like he was Superman. And one day he used a sheet to jump off the garage roof. He thought the sheet would act as a parachute and he could fly. Instead he fell, broke his arm. And was grounded from playing Superman after that for a long time.
“Wow I never heard the superman story.” Joy said playfully. Chase feeling really embarrassed, put the shirt back in the box.
“Are you ready for mine?” Joy asked eagerly.
“I told you not too.” Chase said using a cute man-whine.
“When do I ever do what you say?” Joy asked rolling her eyes. She handed him a small black box, He opened it, inside was his wedding ring.
“Its your wedding ring, remember you somehow lost it in the house. I found it, it was back behind the entertainment center, stuck in a corner. I barely saw it.” Chase was relieved he thought he’d lost it forever.
While Chase was putting on his ring. The whole restaurant filled with darkness. A few people started to panic, and yelled out “Hey what’s going on?”
Children were starting to cry. Lydia, Mike and Brent were starting to cry too. Chase picked Lydia up to console her, and just as he did. There was a loud thunderous Boom! Realizing it was thunder, Chase tried to reason with Lydia.
“Everything is okay, it was just some thunder.” He said, Speaking to her in a calm soothing voice.
“Wow! Abby said, that was loud!”
“Yes it was.” Scott said after being so quiet all night. “I think we need to go ahead and get the boys home.” He advised feeling anxious. Scott had always been afraid of storms every since he survived a tornado, in his teens.
“Well I didn’t even know it was storming?” Joy said, she looked out the window and saw it pouring.
“That’s right, we had thunderstorms in the forecast for tonight.” Chase explained.
“Well hope you had a nice Birthday.” Scott said, as he gathered up his boys and headed out to their car. Abby walked over and gave Chase a hug.
“Hope your Birthday was good.” She said while getting her things.
“Oh it was.” He said reassuringly.
“Good deal, well see you two later don’t be strangers, goodbye little one.”
“We won't just give us a call.” Joy yelled back. Joy watched Abby run to her car trying to out-run the rain. Chase looked at Joy and told her that they should go too. Joy nodded, she wholeheartedly agreed.
“Its looking pretty bad.” Joy said gathering their things. Chase grabbed a few things too and picked up Lydia and headed toward the door. The rain pounded them While they walked to their car. Chase hurried to get Lydia inside the car and in her car-seat. Joy put the cake and the big red box inside the car on the opposite side of Lydia. Then she jumped into the car and buckled-up. Chase still trying to get Lydia all buckled-up was becoming more and more drenched.
Joy felt bad he was soaked. He laughed then said to her, “Don’t worry I wont melt”
"Not worried about you melting, I‘m worried about the seats.” Then gave him a teasing grin. Finally, he jumped in the drivers seat. All at once a big bolt of lighting flashed, looking as if was directly in front of them. Followed by a loud bang of deafening thunder. Lydia started crying, and Chase looked over at his scared little girl.
"Its okay Daddy and Mommy's here.” He said calmly. Lydia started asking for Z. Chase tried comforting her. "Z’s at home honey, were going home right now to get him.”
“Okay” Lydia said trying not to cry. When they got home the rain subsided somewhat. They took Lydia, and the Birthday stuff into the house. Chase grabbed the remote off the coffee table and turned on the local weather. As soon as he turned the TV on, a tree-branch blew off the tree in their front yard. It hit their living room window, making a loud scary noise.
Chase walked over and looked out the window. He saw their tree bowing under the pressure of the wind. He felt really nervous, but tried to stay focused on watching the weather. While Chase watched the weather, Lydia grabbed Z from off the couch and hugged her toy. Then some Bulletin’s streamed across the bottom of the television. There was a tornado just south of Mobile. The cell was moving towards Mobile. They said the cell should move through the city of Mobile around 9:30. “What time is it?” Chase said worried.
“It’s 9:00 now” Joy stated feeling uneasy.
“Okay, we have just enough time to get into the storm shelter.”
Joy didn’t like the sound of that she felt panicky but tried to stay calm for Lydia. She asked Chase in a quiet voice so Lydia couldn’t hear. “Do you think we really need to do that?”
“Of course I do, didn’t you hear the bulletin? That’s what the shelter is for, times like this. That’s why my dad built it.”
Joy started to cry, Chase held her and reminded her, “No matter what happens, we have to keep it together and have faith. Don’t forget what you told me today?”
“I won’t.” Joy said convinced he was right.
“Now, please get the flash-light out of our closet, and check the batteries in our radio on the back porch.”
Joy went to work, getting things ready. Chase put Lydia in his lap. He tried explaining things on her level, “Lydia there is a big wind blowing outside, We are going to are safety place okay?” Chase told her as calmly as possible.
“Can Z come?” Lydia asked clinging to her toy.
“Yes, Z can come. Don’t worry.” Chase said sweetly. Lydia smiled and hugged her Daddy on his neck. Suddenly, a loud beeping came from the TV. Another weather-alert. A tornado was spotted in Mobile on the ground, Oaks View area. It seemed unreal. Their farm was only a ten minute drive from there. Sirens were blasting. Chase and Joy knew they had to get in the shelter.
Joy wrapped Lydia in a blanket. Chase carried Lydia, continuing to secure the blanket around her. They walked to the shelter bringing the radio, and flashlight. Then Lydia asked a question, Chase really didn’t like answering. “Daddy what’s that sound.” She asked worried.
Chase knew she meant the sirens. He hoped that she’d understand his explanation. “It’s telling us to go to our safe place.” Chase answered. It pained him to know that she knew something bad was happening. Lydia buried her face in the blanket, she was to scared to move.
Chapter 3
When they made it to the shelter door, they flashed the flash light around so they could see. While doing their best to keep Lydia calm. They found the light inside the shelter, it could be turned on by a tiny rope. Joy pulled the rope and the light came on. Then Chase grabbed the radio, turning it on, to keep track of bulletins. They saw a large metal pipe at the bottom of the shelter. They decided to sit down beside it.
While waiting, they searched for a clear station on the radio. Finally, they got a clear signal and a male voice, announced to the public. "If your in the city of Mobile, and you live in the area by or around Oak View seek shelter immediately. There is a tornado on the ground. Please take cover immediately.”
Chase knew that a tornado had been spotted on the ground, but know he knew it was still on the ground. Joy looked at Chase and they gave each other a look of uncertainty and fear. With the sirens still blasting, fear of the unknown intensified. To make things worse they started hearing the wind howl and things hitting against the door. Lydia started screaming and crying.
“It’s okay Lydia.” Chase said as convincingly as he could.
Joy suggested they pray and ask God for protection. They prayed, Joy said the prayer, she asked God for his protection in these words.
“God we ask that no matter what happens you will be with us, and keep us safe.” With that simple prayer they somehow felt a little better, right after they heard a sound. It sounded like a train, or something they couldn’t really decide.
Then their ears started popping, and they could hear things hitting and clanking around. They knew then that it had to be the tornado, and fear overwhelmed them. Chase ordered them to hold on to the metal pipe, Joy held on with Lydia and Chase put his body over them. He prayed in his mind continuously for his family.
The winds sounded fierce, like a speeding train, or jet plane. They could hear things bumping against the door, the wind sounded eerie. And it began to gust hard against the storm shelter door. The door seemed to be pulling open. As if something Monstrous, was trying to open it. It was terrifying knowing it was the tornado pulling the door. Chase was fearful about what was happening with the door, He yelled loudly to reminded them to hold on to the metal pipe. Just then, the door of the shelter blew apart and the tornado started to suck things out.
They watched in horror as a couple of old stools blew out, and their radio, and flash light. Chase started to feel himself become air born, as the wind grabbed his body without mercy and began pulling him up. Joy was terrified, she saw Chase beginning to be sucked out of the shelter. She held on to him, with all her strength clinging to him with one hand, and their daughter with her other.
She did all this while still clinging to the metal pipe and covering her daughter with as much of her body as she could. Joy did this for what seemed like an eternity. And even though Joy started feeling as though she might ripe in half. Joy didn’t give up, she was not willing to lose either of them.
The terrible winds became to much, Chase knew that he needed to let go of Joys hand. He knew if he didn’t then all three of them may be blown out of the shelter. Chase looked at his wife, for what he thought was the last time.
“I love you.” He mouthed.
Then he let go of her hand, the tornado took him. The unthinkable happened. Chase was sucked out and into the tornado-cloud. Joy experienced real terror, as she witnessed Chase being sucked out. Now in shock, she mechanically turned towards her daughter. Placing her body over Lydia completely. while clinging to the metal pipe. Joy could hear the wind howling, it was truly like a nightmare. Joy had never been through anything this horrific, she started to feel numb, emotionless, her body exhausted.
Joy could hear the faint sound of the howling wind, but to exhausted to care anymore. Joy felt nothing, she felt like she was just a covering for her daughter to survive. Meanwhile, Chase was being violently tossed inside the tornado, like a rag doll. Tree limbs, and other random objects flew past him, sometimes smashing into him, causing him extreme pain. Chase, hurt and terrified, sick and exhausted prayed in his mind. Knowing it would be his last prayer. He welcomed death, he wanted out of his terrifying experience.
Then he thought of Joy and Lydia, and how he would always love them. He realized he really wanted to live, he had to live, they needed him. Even though death was sure, he asked God to somehow let him live. Moments later, a mighty force began to dominate his body, he felt an unfamiliar power penetrating deep within himself.
A strange growing sensation. That started radiating through-out his whole body. It was powerful making contact into every cell of his body. Chase started to shake severely, like someone having a seizure. It felt as though every cell of his body was being recharged. After the seizure-like episode he started floating.
Chase saw things flying past him, but never hitting him. It seemed he was in some kind of protective bubble, just floating in safety and warmth. Floating and feeling a newness of self, he was set free. It felt wonderful yet strange. His pain, gone.. his awareness of everything going on around him miraculously clear. Chase had an inner knowledge that something magnificent had just happened to him.
Chase understood, except for knowing how it happened. What he did understand, was that he wasn’t being controlled by his environment anymore. He was in control, he became aware by this inner knowledge that he could fly. Chase took advantage of his new ability, flying himself to safety.
Then placing himself gently on the ground in a standing position. Chase stood there momentarily where he foot-landed, he was extremely happy he was still alive. He didn’t understand how or why he was alive, or had this inner knowledge. After standing a few minutes a wonderful euphoric feeling seemed to overtake him, unknown to him it was a healing mechanism. He took a few steps and realized he was in what used to be his fathers cotton field.
He felt happy that at least he was on his own land. He decided to go and find Joy and Lydia, his knowledge told him they were okay. Chase was astonished, all pain gone, he didn’t even feel exhausted. He looked at his arm and he saw blood. He pulled his sleeve back to see the damage.
There was a deep cut, as he investigated, it was already in the process of healing. It healed right before his eyes. Chase couldn’t believe it. He had an endless amount of questions filling his mind. Chase wasn’t sure what was happening. How could he fly? How was it that his body could miraculously heal itself?
That was totally impossible he thought. That only happens in books or movies. He thought maybe he was knocked out, and this was an hallucination. He really needed comfort and answers, but how? Where? He didn’t understand. Chase feeling confused, decided to just walk.
He walked along thinking, he noticed he still wasn’t tired or in pain and that was freaking him out. Chase kept walking, it wasn’t long until he was able to see his house. He stood in shock as he noticed the condition of his farm house. He took a mental note of everything wrong with his house. The roof was gone, and the whole house was in disarray, some walls were missing, others looked untouched.
He also noticed that it was the beginning of a new day. Joy and Lydia were waking up, from their nightmarish stupor. Joy was feeling sick to her stomach, and light headed. Lydia started whining and crying, a cry that Joy was unfamiliar with. Joy couldn't seem to recognize this cry, it wasn’t hunger, or sleepiness, or anything she used to be able to identify. Joy stood up, taking Lydia in her arms.
“You’re okay baby, lets go.” Joy carried her out of the storm shelter. While leaving the shelter she heard sirens. The paramedics were pulling in. Lydia immediately started crying at the sound and shaking uncontrollably. Lydia thought the sirens meant it would happen all over again.
Joy held on to her and told her, “Its okay baby winds are all gone.”
“Where’s my Daddy?” Lydia cried looking around hoping she would see him.
“Its Okay.” Joy answered, because she couldn’t explain. Joy herself wasn’t able to emotionally handle the situation. Minutes later a rescue worker was walking towards them. Joy started sobbing with both despair and relief to see people coming to help. The rescue worker was very tall, his name tag read Williams, he walked up and greeted her.
"Hello Ma‘am, are you and your child okay?”
“I think so.” Joy said between sobs.
“Now is it just the two of you?” Williams asked.
“It is now.” Joy answered with pain in her voice, choking back tears. “My husband was with us and he, was blown out! She explained crying, "nobody could have survived what happened to him.” Joy said in an agonized voice.