~~The Dark Fire~~ 
                        By Cara Swann
         [© 2000 by Cara Swann; all rights reserved] 



Synopsis: The year is 1972 and a naive young woman
is fascinated by a charismatic older man who arrives
in the secluded mountain cove where she's grown up.
Her fantasies of leaving, getting away from the
suffocating protection of her family and community
lead her to ask for a ride to Nashville with the
stranger -- and when her dreams of becoming an
airline stewardess fail, she begins traveling with him.
They fall in love, but eventually she discovers he has
a dark past that threatens to destroy them both. 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~      

Healing

Kiss my gray hair, oh, my love, 
You may yet 
Kiss away the gray, and bring 
Back the jet.

Kiss the anguish from my eyes, 
And the doubt; 
I may yet turn good again 
And devout.

Kiss the venom, oh, my love, 
From my tongue, 
And perhaps I'll be a fool 
Again, and young.

       --Leftwich

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
PROLOGUE

Lori walked quickly along the tangled path. She
pushed her way through the mass of intertwining
vines, knocking back protruding bushes, feeling the
prickly scratches of briars on her bare legs. The
path had become viciously overgrown during her
absence.

She was making her way to the bluff -- the bluff
that overlooked the wide valley, the bluff that hung
suspended at the edge of deep woods....a sharp
sudden drop to a lush fertile valley below.

She looked ahead, through the vines and bushes, and
caught a glimpse of gray flat rock. Increasing her
pace she stepped carefully through the spidery
weeds that clutched at her feet. It had been so long
since she'd last stood on the bluff and she yearned
for the sensation that rushed through her as she
stared out on the valley.

Spring was ushering in vibrant green and the woods
were a wonderland of rebirth. Her hands pushed
away the tiny budding tree limbs that swiped
hungrily at her arms. Bright wild flowers begged to
be noticed but she had no time to gaze at the
beauty. She had to reach the bluff as fast as
possible.

Tearing the last shred of webbed vines apart she
gasped at the scenic view in front of her. A
sweeping panorama was unveiled -- lime green fields
with cattle grazing peacefully, distant hills
stretching upward and flatland speckled with houses
and church steeples; above, the sky was a piercing
blue, cloudless and perfect. It was all as she
remembered and now she knew she was home.

Lori walked slowly to the edge of the bluff, stopping
about two feet from the sheer drop-off. Her hands
shook as she brushed back a golden strand of hair
and bit down hard on trembling lips. Tears clouded
her deep blue eyes and a sob escaped. The Cove
looked so peaceful, so welcoming...and she ached
with joy. But the hurt still remained. Lori thought of
David and a painful ache stabbed deep into her
heart...

Looking out over the valley she knew this was the
peace David wanted...the peace he'd always said
would be theirs when they returned to the Cove.  

She heard footsteps coming and turned to look
behind her....

Chapter One

Lori couldn't say what it was about David Keller that
struck the spark in her. All she knew was that one
day he came into her life and nothing was ever the
same again. 

Lori had grown up in a rustic log home built by her
grandfather. Her parents had turned it into a cozy
cottage, somewhat outdated in style. A narrow dirt
road leading to a paved highway was their only link
with others, even though it was 1972. Snuggled at
the foot of Big Bear Mountain they enjoyed their
seclusion. Lori was an only child and she helped her
folks operate an ancient gristmill -- the cornmeal
was sold in the Smokies to tourist. The days drifted
by with a calm, easy routine -- the turmoil of the
late 1960s having passed them by. 

The towering Smoky mountains surrounded the
fertile valley and made her world a safe haven. Only
mountain people, clans, dwelled in Rugged Gap. For
generations there had been a tight kinship among
these clans. It was a familiar, peaceful existence
for twenty years.	

Then on a hot early June day, while Lori was taking
a brief rest from her duties at the gristmill, a
stranger came walking up the dusty dirt road. She
was sitting in a large old rocker on the front porch.
Rocking lazily she enjoyed the cool breeze sweeping
from Big Bear Mountain. Her long blond hair swayed
as she rocked, her eyes closed in restful ease.
Suddenly a snarling sound from her dog, Kip, roused
her attention. She instantly plunked her feet on the
floor and the rocker jerked to a halt. Her deep blue
eyes flashed open with curiosity.

"Here, here Kip," she soothed. "What's wrong?"

The sleek spotted hound leaped to the edge of the
porch, a fierce growl issuing a warning. Lori looked
up the road, past the yard of flowering
rhododendrons, and saw a man. She stood and
walked over to Kip, bending and patting his head.

"Now Kip, let's see who it is before you get too
worked up -- might be someone coming to visit."

Lori stared intently at the man. The closer he came
the more she realized he wasn't one of the Cove
Clan. He was a stranger. Lori was intrigued by him;
he was tall and thin, leaning precariously to one side
as he walked along the road.

Kip growled threateningly as the man neared the
yard. His pace slowed and he looked directly at Lori.
He hesitated and then stopped at the edge of the
path leading to the house. His voice echoed across
the short distance, "Say there miss, do you suppose
a feller could get a drink of water? Mighty hot and
dry out here."

Lori continued to stare at him; dusty and hot, he did
look exhausted. He leaned a bit more to one side as
though unable to stand longer. Her compassion
surfaced and she yelled, "Sure, come on up here. I'll
get you some drinking water."

The man seemed relieved at her offer and trudged
up the path. Kip growled again and Lori hushed him
with an angry command. As the man stepped on the
porch he said gratefully, "Really appreciate your
help miss, been walking quite a ways and about done
in."

Lori observed the man closely. He was taller than
she'd realized and dwarfed her petite frame. His
white linen suit was streaked with sweat stains.
Graying, blondish hair indicated he was probably
middle-age, and his light dancing blue eyes suggested
humor and mischief. His face was long and angular,
but it was his animated expression that seemed to
glow with life and adventure. Something in his voice,
something in his eyes also held a hint of worldly
experience. Here stood a man who had seen the
distant horizon she had never known.

"Well, don't mind helping out," Lori said as she
turned to go get his water. In the kitchen she
hurriedly grabbed a pitcher of cold water from the
refrigerator and snatched a glass from a shelf. Oh
how glad she was that her folks were down at the
gristmill today! She would have a chance to talk with
this stranger, learn more of the outside world. Even
though her folks had tried to discourage her
curiosity about "out there" she could not stop
yearning to know more of life beyond Rugged Gap.

The screen door slammed behind her and she smiled
at the stranger. He had made friends with Kip and
was petting the dog.

"Here you are mister, cold drinking water." She set
the pitcher down beside him.

He poured the glass full then began gulping it down
thirstily. His eyes closed in pure pleasure as he
drained the glass. "Mind if I have another glass,
miss?"

"No, please, help yourself -- there's plenty more
where that came from."

Lori sat down in the rocker and began to rock
gently. Her eyes were drawn to the stranger's face,
to his enigmatic smile as he said, "Well, thanks miss
for the water. I'll be on my way now, lots of miles
to cover before dark."

Lori jumped up abruptly, almost overturning the
rocker. "Wait. I mean, couldn't you sit and rest a
few minutes? You sure looked tired out there."

A wistful gleam in her eyes betrayed her curiosity
and the stranger smiled knowingly. He sat down on
the steps and looked at Lori's innocent face and his
past flashed like a dark fire through his mind. He
shouldn't stay, shouldn't get better acquainted, for
he knew he could become enchanted with this
beautiful young woman.  It was against his principles
to have a woman in his life...yet he felt compelled to
talk with her awhile.

*  *  *  *

The stranger leaned back against the porch railing,
shifting to a comfortable position. He reached inside
his shirt pocket and pulled out a pack of Camels,
tapped the pack and took a cigarette out. His long
thin fingers held the cigarette in one hand as his
other hand patted his pants pocket, searching for
matches. He shook his head in confusion. "If that
don't beat all, I thought I had some matches."

Lori sprang from the rocker and headed for the
screen door. "I'll get you a box, just a second." And
she hurried inside and grabbed a box of matches
from a kitchen shelf. Back on the porch she stood
smiling at the stranger offering him the matches
from her outstretched hand.

He took the box and removed a match, striking it
fast and holding the flame to the cigarette dangling
from his lips. He inhaled a deep drag and sighed with
satisfaction. "They say these things'll kill a man but
I guess we all got to go sometimes," he said, smiling
at Lori.

She had remained standing near him as the smoke
curled lazily from his cigarette. He squinted to avoid
the smoke and said softly, "So miss..." He paused
and his gaze surveyed Lori from head to toe,
"what's your name?"

Lori blushed crimson and nervously smoothed her
loose fitting blouse. She knew her cut-off blue
jeans looked provocative. Her voice was a bare
whisper, "Lori, Lori Lei Sanders."

"Nice name, Lori Lei. Bet there's lots of Sanders in
this Cove, huh?"

"If you only knew...half the people here are part of
our Clan!"

"Yeah, that's the trouble with these little remote
Coves, not many boys around to meet."

Lori looked away, embarrassed. How did he know
what she was thinking! Lifting her eyes and looking
directly at him she asked, "What's your name
mister, where you from, and how come you're way
over here in Rugged Gap?"

He laughed and his face radiated an animated glow.
"Wait a second, miss, one question at a time, okay?
My name is David Keller and I'm from one of these
Coves just like you, Black Ridge over past the low
mountains near Gatlinburg. Course, some of that
Cove's been a part of the Smokies Park for years
now. But that's where I grew up so I know all about
Clans. And how it feels to be isolated from the
world." His voice suddenly dropped and he looked
out toward the road with sadness in his eyes. He
shrugged his shoulders and lowered his head. "We
were poor though, never had much as kids. A real
bad life of struggling to survive but I made it,
always survived whatever happened."

Bitterness had crept into his words and a slow-
burning rage flickered in his eyes as he stared at
Lori.

She spoke softly, "I've been lucky, my folks always
had the gristmill and we did pretty good. Sort of a
Clan inherited trade. All my ancestors here ran the
mill. It's just that sometimes..." she trailed off
wistfully.

"Yeah," David sighed. "Sometimes you wonder what's
beyond the Cove, the world you've probably read
about and dreamed of. You want to see it, escape
this narrow, sheltered life. Well, Lori, take it from
me, you have the best of the best here -- a
peaceful, quiet life away from the ugliness of big
cities and America's modern nightmare."

Lori walked to the steps and sat down. "I know this
is a good life. My folks are wonderful, and um, I
even got a boyfriend that's sweet on me." She
blushed and continued, "But, I want to see more of
the world. I have a high school diploma, I've read
lots, I know the world has more to offer. My folks
just won't let me grow up. I've wanted to leave the
Cove, go away, make a new life, travel and see the
country. They won't even buy a TV set, say it'll
corrupt me! I've got to leave someday or I'll grow
into a bitter old maid!"

David laughed mildly at her emotionalism. "Honey,
you do sound determined but like I said, what's
beyond this Cove's not all good. I should know. I've
traveled all over this damn country, from one end to
the other, and I've yet to find much happiness." The
sadness had returned to his eyes and thoughts of his
past filled his mind. He could see endless highways
stretching before him, running, always running and
wondering when the reckoning day would come. A
chill ran down his spine as he recalled his last close
call. Only yesterday in fact and it had led to him
being here now.

Lori interrupted his thoughts. "So, what's a man like
you doing here?"

David was amazed at her easy openness with him.
Most Clans were secretive and reclusive, barring
outsiders. She must be really eager to know more of
the world, he thought. David flipped his cigarette out
into the yard. "Actually, I'm heading to a friend's
house farther down the road. My car broke down on
the highway and I had to walk the rest of the way."

"What is your friend's name," Lori questioned.

"Oh, I don't think you'd know him. He's not one of a
Clan, has his own private retreat up here."

"Probably not, if he's an outsider. My Pa really hates
those tourist types, says none of them should be
here. Still, one or two have bought part of Highland
Haven when old Mr. McCormick died."

David stood up, stretching his arms overhead,
relieving his lean body of the cramped position.
"Well, Lori, it's been real nice meeting you. Thanks
again for the water..."

"Wait," Lori stood up. "You can't just walk off like
this...I mean, we just met." Her hand shook as she
touched David's arm. "Please, don't go...I...I..."

"Yes, I know Lori. You would like for me to take you
away from here."

Her head lowered only briefly, then she looked up
into his face with bright eager eyes, glad he seemed
able to read her mind. "Yes, yes...I would. I know it's
crazy, I really don't know you but I would like to
leave here. You can give me a ride to a city, drop me
off and go you own way." She tugged on his jacket
sleeve. "Please, please say you'll give me a ride?"

David looked at her innocent, trusting face and
wanted to run. In her shinning eyes he saw himself
so long ago, stuck in a tiny Cove and craving to see
the world. Damn, he shouldn't get involved in this,
especially not right now, but what was the harm in
giving her a ride to the nearest city?

"Maybe...but first I want you to think about this
tonight. If you still want to go in the morning, I'll
pick you up on the highway around eight o'clock. I
can take you to Nashville, if that's okay?"

A smile spread over her face and she exclaimed,
"It's a deal!"

David turned and walked off down the path,
whistling a haunting tune as he headed down the dirt
road.

*  *  *  *

Later that afternoon Lori's parents returned from
the gristmill. Twilight dimmed the kitchen windows as
Lori busied herself. Because she knew this would be
a farewell meal she had spent long hours preparing
her parent's favorite feast: crisp fried chicken, hot
gravy and buttered biscuits. For a special dessert
she'd made shortcake with fresh strawberries. 

Now, as she glanced out the window and saw her
folks emerging from the wooded path that led to
the gristmill, she began hastily setting dinner plates
on the table. Footsteps crossed the porch and the
screen door slammed shut behind her parents.

Lori stood silently near the table, a sparkle in her
eyes and a welcoming smile on her face. "Hi, anyone
hungry?"

Ma's eyes grew wide with surprise, her lips forming
a small 0. Pa draped an arm over Ma's shoulder and
exclaimed, "I don't believe it, our Lori cooking a
meal? Lord, what's got into you girl?"

Lori laughed self-consciously, knowing they were
surprised because she hated to cook. "Oh Pa, you
know me...I'm full of surprises. I thought you two
would enjoy a good meal after such a long day.
Besides, I took the afternoon off and didn't help
out at the mill. And you know tomorrow is my
regular day off." She turned to the stove and began
moving the food to the table.

Ma and Pa exchanged a surprised look, shook their
heads and after washing up, seated themselves at
the table. A delicious aroma filled the room and they
ate in companionable silence.

Lori stared at her folks. Pa was getting older, near
sixty now; wrinkles creased his face, a bald spot on
his head shone under the bright kitchen light, and he
slumped with fatigue. A day at the mill was tiring for
him but he loved it. That mill was his salvation.

Ma, who was younger than Pa by five years, sat
stiffly as though her rigid stance in life must be
maintained at all times. Her thick gray hair was
pulled tightly into a severe bun. Thin lips revealed
her grim attitude. But in her blue eyes there was
tenderness that helped ease her bitter countenance.
Religion ruled Ma's life....and God was her salvation.

With every bite of food she swallowed, Lori felt a
knot rise in her throat. Her folks would be so hurt
when she left. They adored her, spoiled her, and
loved her deeply. She had been the center of their
lives for the past twenty years. Lori had come along
late in their lives when they'd given up on ever having
a child _  a miracle to them. And now here she was
planning to leave. 

Her heart ached as she looked on their weary faces.
She owed them so much but how could she sacrifice
knowing a world beyond Rugged Gap? She could
almost see them on bended knee praying to God for
her safety when they learned of her departure.
That wouldn't help though. Lori had become
skeptical of God when she realized He allowed
illness, suffering, starvation and poverty among
some clans in the Cove. God was an illusion to Lori
and she had no abiding faith.

When the meal was finished they all went out to sit
on the front porch. A pleasant cool breeze drifted
down from Big Bear Mountain. Pa and Ma sat in the
long wooden swing and Lori in her rocker. Crickets
and kati-dids made a serenade from lush tulip trees;
fireflies blinked tiny brilliant sparks throughout the
yard and in the big evergreens. A scent of
rhododendrons wafted on the air as they relaxed.
This was an evening ritual for them. A time to enjoy
the quiet peacefulness of their surroundings.

Lori called Kip and he came bounding up the steps
and plopped down beside her. She reached down to
pet him and he nuzzled her hand. Sitting there
serenely and immersed in the loving companionship
of her folks Lori knew she'd miss home. She stood
and walked to the steps, closer to her folks, and sat
down.

"Ma," she said, "remember all the tales you used to
tell about when I was a little girl?"

Ma chuckled. "Sure do baby, but those weren't no
tales, they was true. You was a real hand full --
always slipping off into the woods, exploring. Why, I
remember one time Preacher Jackson brought you
home when you showed up at his cabin." She laughed.
"Lord honey, you must've covered a mile across that
field getting to his place."

"Ever think I was just curious about other places,"
Lori questioned.

Pa leaned forward in the swing, suddenly alert.
"Now girl don't start in on that old song again. Your
Ma and me know you're curious. It's only natural.
But I wish you'd listen to us. We've been outa the
Cove, went on over to that there Nashville one time.
Saw the Grand Ole Opree, we did. Shoot, all those
folks shuffling around like chickens with their heads
cut-off, more people than I'd ever seen. And you
know what, in the two days we's there I reckon I
figured out those folks was rushing so fast they was
missing out on life. Never had a minute to theirself,
always busy, busy, busy... Whew, was we glad to get
home! And you know that god-awful Vietnam war
done took away too many of our young clan boys
too."

Lori sighed heavily. "I know Pa, the war is awful, and
you've told me all about the Nashville trip lots of
times. Even the part about the pickup breaking down
on your way home."

"Yeah," Pa exclaimed, "and we thought no one would
ever stop to help us. If'n it hadn't been for that
patrolman we'd still be on that highway."

"Ah Pa, I know it's not easy to survive outside
Rugged Gap. But times change Pa. We're not living in
the 50s now. It's 1972, there's a new modern world
out there. Heck, we still got the same '50 pickup
that you and Ma drove to Nashville!" Lori shifted on
the steps and lowered her voice, "Ma and Pa I just
want you to remember that I love you both very
much. Guess I'm just too curious sometimes -- but
always remember I love you." She stood and walked
to her folks, giving each of them a firm hug.

"Well I'm going to my room, kinda sleepy tonight."
She yawned as she headed for the door.

"Sweet dreams baby," Ma said as she and Pa
exchanged a worried look and shook their heads.

*  *  *  *

That night in her room Lori began carefully packing
her clothes. Not that there were many to pack --
she had only several necessary garments. But Ma
did sew and had made a few nice simple dresses.
She folded all her jeans, which she'd ordered from
Sears, and neatly stacked them in the battered
suitcase, a hand-me-down from an aunt.

As she struggled to stuff all her clothes in the
suitcase she let her thoughts stray aimlessly. What
on earth was she doing? Planning to run away with a
complete stranger! She really must be desperate to
resort to this plan. Yet somehow she felt no fear of
David Keller. He was a kind man, she felt it in her
heart. From the moment she heard his mellow,
soothing voice and looked into his light dancing blue
eyes she felt she could trust him. 

Of course, she didn't know his lifestyle but his
clothing alone indicated he wasn't penniless. An
expensive white linen suit was a rare sight in the
Cove. And too, David had a worldly, experienced
manner. Whatever his profession -- and her
imagination had toyed with every conceivable idea,
always returning to traveling salesman -- he was
obviously intelligent and worldly wise. 

Since Lori was a young girl of ten she'd dreamed of
being an airline stewardess. She'd read every book
on the subject in school and even sent off by mail
and received pamphlets from airlines. It was a
dream to her, one she hoped would turn to reality at
the crack of dawn tomorrow.

As Lori slipped beneath the covers her thoughts
turned to Billy. Poor Billy. He would be so
disappointed when he learned of her departure. Billy
Laslow had been Lori's steady boyfriend for the
past four years. He was very much in love with her.
She recalled his shinning eyes last weekend when
he'd sat gazing at her. 

They'd gone on a picnic to Little Bend Creek and
were sitting on a quilt beneath the flowering tulip
trees bordering the creek. Billy had begged her to
marry him. Just as he had for the past four years.
Billy pressured her again and she'd exploded with
anger, hurting and confusing him. It wasn't that she
didn't care for Billy --just that the intense magic of
being "in love" had not touched her. 

Lori liked Billy, enjoyed his company, but her
yearning to get out of the Cove prevented her full
involvement with him. And now, she was still a virgin
and determined not to marry Billy! Yes, he'd be
disappointed but she hoped he'd find another girl --
one who would be happy in the Cove.

Lori pulled the sheet over her and buried her head in
the feather pillow. She had to sleep, tomorrow
would be an important day.

*  *  *  *

Dawn light slipped beneath the window curtains as
Lori awoke. She looked at her bedside clock to see it
was six o'clock.  She had to hurry. Her folks would
already be at the gristmill because they always
shipped out cornmeal on Fridays, and they left the
house before daylight. It was about two miles up the
dirt road to the highway and if she hurried, she'd
have no trouble being there to meet David. 

Suddenly panic seized her: What if he didn't show
up? No! No! This was her chance, she had to leave
today! She was prepared, ready for the leap.
Climbing out of bed she forced herself to remain
calm -- David would be there. He would not fail her
-- he had promised to give her a ride. She must
hurry and be there on time.

Lori reached for the faded jeans and delicate pink
cotton blouse she'd laid out to wear. Quickly she put
on the clothes and sat down on the bed to pull on
her tennis shoes. 

She stood in front of the mirror brushing her long,
blond silky hair. Smiling at her reflection, she
studied her face: Wide blue eyes set deeply in a
delicate oval face; a narrow nose and full lips....pale,
flawless skin. Today her eyes held a sparkle of
excitement. Lori knew she was no raving beauty --
but with her petite size, clear complexion, and long
natural blond hair, she should qualify as an airline
stewardess.

Lori grabbed her suitcase, took one last long look
around the familiar bedroom and hurried out the
door. In the kitchen she found a notebook, tore out
a sheet and wrote:

Dear Ma and Pa,

Please forgive me. I have to see some of the world.
Don't worry about me, I'll write soon. I love you
both very much!

Love, Lori

Lori pinned the note to the back screen door where
her folks would find it when they came home for
lunch. By then she would be long gone.

The scent of freshly turned earth hung heavy in the
air as Lori walked along the narrow dirt road. On
her left was a field of tobacco and on her right was
a thick pine forest. The huge evergreens swayed
near the road, brushing the ground. These
evergreens bunched together in clusters as the land
inclined gradually toward the foot of Big Bear
Mountain. The flat fertile field presented a
sweeping view of the bottomland, no houses in sight.
The sky was a crystal clear blue overhead.

Lori walked briskly and soon the fertile field was
replaced by a green grassy pasture with cattle
grazing lazily. A fence now bordered the road. Lori
smiled. It wouldn't be long now till she reached the
highway. A wave of anticipation swept over her and
she increased her pace. Soon, very soon now she'd
meet David and begin to make her dreams come
true. Of course, she realized her deal with David
only included getting to Nashville. Beyond that she
would have to restrain her tendency to lean on him
for help. He was merely her means of escape.

Lori suddenly stopped and opened her small purse.
She removed a large envelope and counted her
money. Yes, it was all there, three hundred dollars --
money saved during the past two years from her
work at the gristmill. It hadn't been easy to save
that money. No! But she had done it, little by little.
She only hoped it would be enough.

Lori began walking again. Her dream was coming
closer with every step...

End Chapter One

Chapter Two

David Keller gripped the steering wheel as he drove
along the snaky passage of mountain highway. His
eyes narrowed into tiny slits as he peered out on the
gray asphalt. He cursed at the bright glare of sun
bouncing off the windshield and glanced at his
watch, relaxing his grip on the steering wheel and
allowing his foot to let up on the accelerator. He had
plenty of time, it was only seven and he'd promised
to meet Lori at eight o'clock.

Driving along, his thoughts reflected back on the
previous night. Damn, what a hell of a night he'd had!
And all because of that young woman. He smiled
remembering Lori, seeing her long blond hair swaying
as she rocked on the porch; seeing her sweet,
anxious smile; her eager blue eyes as she tugged on
his arm -- wanting to go away with him. 

Well, not exactly go away with him...but just get a
ride out of the Cove. He could understand -- he'd
once felt the same need to be free of Black Ridge.
His eyes saddened as he stared down the road at
long-ago memories. He had escaped the Cove all
right but what had he gained from freedom? He
grinned ironically, dark thoughts in his mind. But, he
would help Lori leave the Cove. Beyond that, it was
entirely up to her. He could give her some cash to
get started in a city, then he'd be on his way. His
life could not include a woman.

*  *  *  *

David had had a bad night all right. When he left
Lori he trudged on about a half mile then doubled
back through the forest behind her house. He
narrowly missed running into Lori's folks as they
returned through the forest from the mill. He
crouched silently behind a huge evergreen and dared
not even breath as the old man and woman passed
within inches of him. When it was safe, he pressed
on and finally managed to get back to the dirt road.
He'd been scratched by briars and his white suit
was a dirt-splotched spectacle. He walked up the
dirt road to the highway, hoping to thumb a ride. But
what few cars there were did not even slow down at
the sight of him. And no wonder -- he looked like a
dangerous bum.

By the time darkness fell, David no longer tried to
thumb a ride. He was disgusted. Needing a brief
rest he crossed a small roadside ditch and sat down
on a grassy embankment. That's when he found a
solution to his problem.

Sitting there trying to rest, he heard a faint melody
on the wind. Then he picked it up clearer -- singing.
Listening intently, he made out the notes of a piano
and voices singing. He pulled his jacket close to him
as the wind from Big Bear Mountain swept down the
valley. Yes, the wind brought the sound of distant
singing voices.

David stood and quickly headed north, in the
direction of the singing. He crossed the highway and
climbed a steep slope with low hanging evergreens.
Pushing apart limbs and stepping over thick
underbrush he at last made his way to the edge of a
clearing. With every step the singing had become
louder. To his great relief he saw a little white
clapboard church all lit up and a parking lot full of
cars. Standing there David grinned with cunning --
he needed a car badly.

He crept across the dark clearing, stealthily and
quietly, edging into the churchyard and crouching in
a shadowed corner of the church. The cars were
parked alongside the front entrance and stood
perfectly in line with a lane leading to the narrow
dirt road. It would be simple to hot wire one and
split before anyone knew what was happening.

Inside the church the song ended and there was a
brief speech by a preacher exhorting those sinners
in the congregation to come forth and be saved.
Then the rustle of people, a mild pause, and a
hallelujah as some poor soul cried out and stumbled
down the aisle. David flinched as he heard the over-
emotionalism of the service....how many times in his
childhood had he heard these same ravings of
religion? Poor people believed in Heaven, in God, in
anything but the misery of poverty here on earth!
He spat out the bile collecting in his mouth as he
listened to the service. David did not believe in
God...the misery he'd suffered, the agony he'd
known, left no place for religious illusions.

The music began again, a piano loudly pumping out,
"Just As I Am" and David knew it was time to make
his move. He surveyed the cars...lots of models to
choose from, new and old. His eyes stopped at a big
Buick, a slick dark green Electra. It probably had all
the luxuries and extras too. He liked big cars, none
off these small jobs for him, too confining. Besides,
he could afford the gas. He wished there was a
Cadillac in the yard, that was his favorite model.
Couldn't have everything though.

David calculated his moves like a chess player. A
quick plot formed in his mind and he sprang from
the shadows, swerving close to a nearby tree,
slipping on to the line of cars and dropping to his
knees as he squatted behind them. Slowly he crept
down the line of cars, bent and almost crawling, his
knees scraping the rocks and dirt. At the door of
the Electra he eased up to the window and looked at
the church. The song was still blasting out through
the night, beseeching sinners to come forth. 

David lowered himself again and eased open the
door, let it swing out slowly. Just at that instant he
heard voices. He peeked out the car windshield.
Damn! Two old men had stepped out into the
churchyard. He waited patiently, and finally the men
returned inside the church.

David slid in under the dashboard and quickly hot
wired the car. Then he swiftly jumped behind the
wheel and, holding the wires with his hands and
pumping the accelerator madly, the engine started.
He backed slowly from the parking space. He swung
the car toward the dirt road and drove away.
Hopefully whoever owned the car wouldn't notice it
being gone until they emerged from the church.

David leaned back and reached for his Camels as he
approached the paved highway. Now he had wheels
to give Lori a ride to Nashville. He lit his cigarette
and turned onto the highway with a squeal of tires
as he headed out of the Cove.

David drove a long while before he found the
nearest motel. It was located in a tourist trap, on a
bustling strip. He pulled into the dimly lit parking lot
which had a "Vacancy" sign flashing brightly. After a
cool glance around at the many cars, he slipped out
and removed the Electra's tag. A few cars down he
exchanged license plates with a yellow VW and
speedily walked back to replace the Buick tag. 

After registering he was disgusted when he saw the
cheap room: small bed, dull furnishings, a depressing
atmosphere. But at least it was clean and he
considered himself lucky to find a room along the
crowded tourist strip. His immediate concern was his
clothing and he hurried to a nearby shopping mall,
bought a suit and changed in the bathroom, then
mingled with the crowd until he rounded out a
suitable wardrobe.

After having a large steak dinner, he returned to
the motel and tried to watch TV. But his thoughts of
Lori kept interfering; he couldn't get her off his
mind. She was so trusting, innocent and vulnerable.
She seemed to bring out all his protective instincts.
He hoped she never learned of the ugliness in life
he'd known.

He flicked off the TV at last and laid back on the
bed, lost in his thoughts of Lori. He'd never come
across a woman like her _ her big, deep-set blue
eyes mesmerized him and he wanted to touch the
fragile, delicate pale skin of her face. He was
attracted to her, but knew he had no chance in hell
with her. Lori was a mere girl, a beauty no doubt,
but much too young for him.

She was also way out of his league, the world of
hookers and fast, easy women. He told himself he
just wanted to see Lori again for the ride to
Nashville, to remind him of the goodness in life, the
joy a decent woman could inspire in a man. He'd
have to be careful though, control himself. He must
not offend her or let her guess his physical
attraction. That would be unforgivable. He'd lived a
wild life but he wasn't one to corrupt innocent
women.

David fell asleep thinking of Lori, and the next
morning when he'd give her a ride to Nashville.

*  *  *  * 

Yes, David reflected, last night was quite a night. He
knew he should be out of state by now but here he
was nearing the dirt road that led to Lori's home. He
slowed his speed and began to watch closely for her.
The Buick Electra was purring along beautifully and
he felt he owed whoever bought that baby a big
debt of thanks. 

He lit another cigarette and continued to watch for
Lori. The roadsides were bordered with tremendous
evergreens, only allowing an occasional glimpse of
bottomland and cultivated fields. He felt right at
home cruising down the highway so like the one
where he'd spent his childhood. It was natural,
untainted here, early morning haze still hovering on
the mountain crests.

Briefly David recalled the years he'd spent in
Beckley, West Virginia where he worked in coal
mines. Those were bad years filled with coal dust
and back-breaking labor. The whole environment was
polluted, not clean like the mountains of the
Smokies. It was a rough time but he'd put that life
behind him. No more coal mines for him! He
preferred driving a Cadillac, living in high style and
coal mine pay wouldn't fill that bill. 

Suddenly David saw Lori standing beside the
highway. She was at the edge of the dirt road. My
God, he thought, she looks beautiful this morning!

He slowed and pulled into the dirt road, switching
off the motor. A welcoming grin spread across his
face as he rolled down the window. "Hi there Miss,
don't I know you from somewhere?"

Lori blushed a bright pink. "I believe you do mister.
You promised me a ride to Nashville, right?"

"Sure honey...you better believe it! Hop in and we'll
head on out of here."

Lori ran around to the passenger side of the car and
David leaned over and shoved open the door for her.
She slid in and stuck her suitcase in the back seat. 

David was captivated by her beauty. He stared at
her dewy-eyed excitement and the way her light
pink blouse highlighted her features _ her pale skin
glowed with anticipation and she tried to conceal an
eager smile by biting her lips nervously. 

He backed the Buick out onto the highway and
headed away from Rugged Gap.

Lori looked sheepishly at David, wondering just what
he did to live in such grand style. This morning he
was wearing a crisply pressed dark blue suit with a
pale blue shirt, which enhanced his light blue eyes.
The Buick was obviously a late model and very
luxurious. Somehow it vaguely reminded her of one
old Jack Cugan had bought a few years ago...but,
then, this one was probably newer. She admired the
comfortable upholstery and the sleek features as
she looked around inside. Spying the radio she asked,
"Care if turn on the radio? I love music..."

"No, help yourself honey....I'd like some music too,"
David urged.

Lori snapped it on and a current hit, "Garden Party"
was being sung by Ricky Nelson. 

David smiled and began tapping the steering wheel
with his fingers. Lori couldn't believe it -- a man his
age who liked pop music. The moment she'd turned
on the radio at home, Ma would cover her ears and
Pa would retreat outside. She laughed happily. "Well
mister, we're going to get along I think."

"I sure hope so Lori. I believe what Ricky is singing:
"You can't please everyone, so you got to please
yourself."

She nodded, thinking that was probably true.

David added, "I want to be friends. Hopefully I can
help you get settled in Nashville...but, of course, you
won't owe me anything."

"Thank you, but I believe I can manage when I get
there. I really appreciate the ride though, don't
know why you'd help me..."

"Well, it's no big deal really. I'm only taking you to
Nashville, was going that way anyhow. I don't know
your plans but I hope you have some money. If not,
I'll loan you some to get started."

Lori said, "That would be very generous of you, but
I think I can manage. I do appreciate the ride."

"You gave a thirsty man a drink of water, which was
generous of you." He paused and smiled
sympathetically. "Also I remember what it's like to
be trapped in a Cove wanting to see the world."

"Well thanks mister. I really appreciate it." 

David laughed. "One more thing though...how about
calling me David? Mister makes me feel older than I
am!" 

Lori agreed, "Sure David."

The radio blasted out The Hollies, "Long Cool
Woman"  and they relaxed for a long ride to
Nashville.

*  *  *  *

Lori was as eager to see Nashville as a child is to see
Santa Claus. She was bubbling over with enthusiasm
as they left the Smokies behind. Never had she
known terrain beyond the Cove. Each view was new
and breathtaking to her; flat stretches that ran for
miles on the Interstate, or the contrast of small
towns and larger cities. The highways intrigued her
and she was fascinated with the busy traffic, cars
of all makes and models. 

David was happy watching her enthusiasm and
pointed out the small details that make trips so
interesting. He knew factual details about every mile
of the trip...he'd traveled it many times over the
years. His mellow voice would croon out historical
data and highlights of each particular region. Looking
at Lori's wide-eyed admiration of his knowledge
encouraged his descriptions, embellished with story-
telling. The four hours to Nashville were proving to
be enjoyable to David in ways he'd never imagined.

Here was a young woman looking at him with
admiration. Had he ever seen that from a woman
before? Had he ever felt the absolute trust and
sincerity of this girl? His past was full of fast,
jaded women. But as he glanced at Lori from time to
time he saw all that was pure, innocent, trustworthy
and decent in this world.

Lori was in awe of David's vast knowledge. She had
known school teachers who were knowledgeable but
they kept a professional distance. Now here sat a
very articulate, intelligent man who was sharing his
knowledge with her freely. In fact, he seemed to be
enjoying it. Lori would glance at him and see the
dancing light in his blue eyes. She loved that light; it
made him seem younger, almost carefree. Sunlight
touched his blond-blond hair and a grin of pleasure
played across his face. As he smoked and talked Lori
was keenly aware of how much she had to learn of
the world. Looking at David she thought he could
teach her much that she needed and wanted to
know.

Lori fleetingly missed home the farther they
traveled, but she knew this was her chance for
adventure, freedom and excitement, perhaps the
only chance she'd ever have. She must not let
sentimental emotions ruin her future. Looking out
the window at the far off horizon she hoped her
parents would understand. She knew they'd be
worried until they heard from her. She'd write first
thing when she got settled in Nashville.

David mentioned having a small lunch before getting
into Nashville but Lori declined. She wanted to get
her first glimpse of the big city and then she'd
worry about eating.

David relaxed into the seat and let his long thin
fingers grasp the steering wheel lightly as they
cruised toward Nashville. He was anxious too by
now. The thought of seeing Lori's face when she
spied those tall buildings, the traffic, the maze of
interstates...

Soon they were on the outskirts of the city. David
checked his speed (he sure didn't need a cop
stopping him!) and slowed down as they merged with
interstate traffic. 

Lori was awestruck when she saw tall buildings rising
high against the skyline, the looming billboards and
then the crowded maze of city streets.

"Honey, this is nothing. Wait till you see New
Orleans."

Lori's eyes blazed. "New Orleans? I'll probably
never make it out of Nashville!"

"Sure you will..."

"Yeah, I might, IF I get a job as an airline
stewardess!" Lori turned back to the skyline,
watching the passing sights.

David had suddenly gone silent.  He felt a little dip in
his mood. He would deliver her to Nashville, that's
all. He shouldn't have speculated about helping her.
Not that he had, of course. He'd just thought if she
had no other alternative he'd stick by her, show her
some of the city, then well....maybe she'd return to
the Cove. There was so much damn violence in big
cities... a pretty young naive girl like Lori could be
easily hurt. But he'd let her make her own decisions. 

He sighed and swung off Interstate 40 onto
Hermitage Avenue. He'd take Lori past the Andrew
Jackson Mansion as they headed downtown.

*  *  *  *

David turned to Lori and smiled as they headed
toward downtown Nashville. "Lori, how about some
lunch? I don't know about you but I'm getting
hungry."

"Sure mister... I mean, David, whatever you say. I'm
kinda hungry now too."

"Have anything in mind?"

Lori pointed at a large sign. "How about a Whopper
at Burger King? I saw it on the billboards and it
makes my mouth water!" 

David glanced at the Burger King and slowed,
turning on his left signal. He saw that the lunch
crowd was mobbing the place and dreaded tackling a
long wait. Still, Lori wanted a hamburger and a
hamburger she'd have.

He swerved the big Buick into position behind a line
of cars waiting for the drive-up window. "If it's
okay with you Lori we'll pick up our orders, drive on
out to the Hermitage grounds and eat at a picnic
table. That suit you?"

She nodded, interested. "I remember reading about
The Hermitage and Andrew Jackson in history class.
Is it big and grand like the photos?"

"Sure," David assured her, "it's great. I've been
there and can tell you all about it. Once I took my
Ma there. Sure was fun watching her take a tour of
the mansion, walking through those high-ceilinged
rooms of antique furniture. Ma'd stare and shake
her head, couldn't believe people lived so high on the
hog, said ten people could live in one of those rooms!
She kept saying it was unfair for some folks to have
so much when others had so little. And she was right
in a way."

Pulling up in line he clicked off the radio. "Hope you
don't mind -- these speakers for orders are a
chore." He smiled and rolled down his window.

Lori liked the process of ordering into a speaker and
rounding the building to pick up food. "It's all so
fast. How do they do it?"

"Lots of kids working their asses off. Excuse my
language, I'm not used to being in the company of a
nice lady like you."

Lori sighed. "I don't know, maybe I'm not so nice --
after all, here I am in a big city with a stranger.
Would a nice girl do something so crazy?"

He looked at her seriously. "Only if the nice girl
wanted to see a little of the world besides Rugged
Gap."

"Yeah, I guess you got me all figured out. But you,
David, are a real mystery to me." Her eyes
questioned him but he turned away abruptly, his jaw
clenched.

When they stopped at the window and David
reached to pay for their order, the girl in the
window smiled brightly, said, "Have a nice day!" and
swung the tray out with their orders on it. He got
their food and drove through the parking lot, easing
back onto Hermitage Avenue. Noon traffic was
heavy and the heat was intense. He rolled up his
window and turned the air conditioner on. 

Lori peeked into the sack. "Hmm, that smells good! I
AM hungry!"

Soon they were turning into the winding circular
drive that led to The Hermitage. Before reaching
the mansion there was a picnic area with tables and
large shady oak trees. David pulled into a parking
space and switched off the motor.

"How's this for a picnic?"

"Great! And am I starving!" She jumped out quickly
and walked to a nearby table. 

David slid out of the car, grabbed the sack of food,
and joined her beneath towering leafy trees swaying
in a mild breeze. A few couples were eating at other
tables; kids were playing tag in the grass.

They sat peacefully eating their lunch and David
thought about how he'd like to take Lori to an
expensive restaurant...maybe in New Orleans. Now
that would be an experience for her.  Abruptly he
cut off his thoughts, knowing it was unlikely she'd
be with him long. And besides, he didn't deserve
such a woman.

When the last bite had been eaten, Lori and David
got back in the Buick and headed up the drive to The
Hermitage. They parked in an area reserved for
tourist under tulip and hickory trees.

They walked up a path bordered by magnolia trees
and approached the grand estate from a slightly
left-sided angle. Through the shadows of billowing
leaves Lori glimpsed the spectacular front lawn and
spacious grounds surrounding the plantation. And
then she halted in breathless wonder as her eyes
swept over the massive two-story white ante-bellum
house with wide verandas and tall Doric columns.
Lori was caught up in the grandeur as they began a
walking tour through the mansion. 

Beside David Lori listened raptly as he read from
the small plaques of historical information about
President Andrew Jackson and his wife Rachel.  The
high-ceilinged rooms and antiques were preserved
meticulously.

Once back outside they walked along the narrow
paths that led to outdoor buildings -- two log cabins;
a lush garden filled with magnolias, hickory trees,
and over fifty varieties of plants; and then the tomb
of Andrew and Rachel. 

Finally Lori looked up at the sky and smiled happily.
"Oh David, it's such a happy day for me! To be in
the city, see this grand mansion." She looked at
David. "It's my dream coming true."

David laughed. "Yeah honey, it's a helluva day. I
haven't felt this good in, well...let's just say longer
than I can remember!" And he too looked up at the
clear sky overhead but saw only the bleakness of his
past -- endless highways, running, always running,
pain and emptiness his only companions.

They walked through the gift shop browsing and
suddenly Lori exclaimed, "Look David, these tiny
spoons, aren't they pretty?" She picked one up,
pointing out the emblem at top that read, The
Hermitage. "Oh David, Ma would have a fit over this,
I just know it! She has one from Nashville, kept it
all these years in a little velvet case. Said it was the
one part of the trip she could keep forever, her
proof she'd actually been out of the Cove." 

Lori gently caressed the spoon, smoothly running her
finger the length of it, and then laid it back down.
"But, I have to save my money, I'll need it." She
began to move on down the aisle.

David picked up the spoon. He caught up with Lori
and touched her arm. "Lori, here, let me pay for the
spoon. Your Ma won't be as worried if you send her
this and write a nice letter when you get settled.
Please, I want to pay for it."

Lori shook her head adamantly. "No David. I can't
accept your money. That's not part of our deal,
remember?"

David pressed the spoon into her hand. "Please Lori,
I have more money than I'll ever spend. It'd make
me happy to see you send this to your Ma."

"Well...I guess if you want me too, I'll agree." Lori
took the spoon, her hand touching David's. He
paused before releasing her fingers, feeling
sensations he hadn't known in years just from her
fleeting touch.

She looked at him sweetly. "Thank you David. You're
a kind man...I really appreciate this."

David coughed nervously and looked out the window.
"Yeah, I guess Lori. Now come on girl, let's pay for
that and head into Nashville."

Driving into the city David watched Lori's excited,
glowing face as she got her first glimpse of the
inner city. She was so naive, eager, enthusiastic...it
was like seeing everything for the first time again to
David. 

He gave her a quick tour, hitting all the busy
districts, pointing out famous landmarks and ended
by sweeping past the well-known Rhyman
Auditorium, home of the Grand Ole Opry. As they
slowed in passing the Rhyman, David also showed her
Tootsie's Orchid Lounge next door.

"How'd you like to be sitting in there tonight? Might
see some big country music star." 

Lori answered soberly, "I don't think I could afford
that place."

"Oh sure you could honey, if you'd agree to go with
me." He turned and smiled widely. 

Lori shyly looked away. "David, I thought you said I
wouldn't owe you for your help."

"Damnit Lori...I'm sorry, excuse my language...but,
hell I was only offering because I thought it'd be
fun for both of us. You're not paying some debt to
me by coming along. And if you feel that way, I
shouldn't have asked." He riveted his attention on
the street, a white-knuckled grip on the steering
wheel.

Lori looked at him innocently. "David, I'm a nice girl
and I want to stay that way. I just wouldn't want
you to get the wrong idea, okay?"

"Sure." David's eyes never left the street.

"I mean, I think you're a kind man...experienced,
worldly...but you're almost a stranger to me. Bars
are...dangerous, aren't they?"

David glanced at her searchingly. "Well, sure some
bars can be dangerous. But, I know Tootsie's, been
there in the past...and I'd take care of you."

"I'm sure you would. I just wanted you to know I'm
a nice girl. You said I wouldn't owe you and I took
you at your word."

"And you don't owe me, especially not in the way
you're hinting. Honey, you're a sweet, nice young
woman and I just wanted you to see some of the
sights. Actually, I've got some business downtown
this afternoon but tonight I'm free. I thought it'd
be fun to sit in Tootsie's and let you get a look at
the famous place. That's it, nothing else. Tomorrow
we go our separate ways."

"It does sound like fun," Lori agreed, a note of
anticipation slipping into her voice.

"Oh it would be, take my word! Relax and listen to
the music, see different people. It's another world."
David reached into his shirt pocket for a Camel.
"Listen, how about I find a nice motel and we'll
check into separate rooms. Then I've got to run
downtown for some business and you can spend the
afternoon getting ready for Tootsie's." He paused.
"Unless you have something you need to do, about
that stewardess position."

Lori had no idea how to find the airport, and
suddenly found the very idea of doing so by herself
intimidating. What was the harm in going with David
for a night out? "No, I'm not in a hurry to check on
the job. Sure, I'll go with you. I'd have to get a
room anyway for the night." She glanced at him.
"And David, I want you to know I trust you to keep
your word about not owing you later."

David laughed. "Sugar, let's put all this foolishness
about owing me to rest once and for all." He lit his
cigarette and swung the car onto the ramp for
Interstate 65 so he could find a motel.

As they headed south Lori said, "Well, tomorrow I'll
get busy with my plans. I wonder how I can get to
the airport and talk to an airline representative?"
She glanced expectantly at David.

"I know where the airport is, and I could drive you
out there I guess. That is, if I'm still in town
tomorrow." His eyes had become sad, as though he
suddenly saw something on the distant horizon that
only he could understand. 

David spotted the exit sign for the next lodging
area. Flicking on his blinker he eased the car onto
the off-ramp and began winding down the exit.
Ahead he saw a Holiday Inn, and thought it would be
a good location -- not far from where he had to
conduct business.

After registering David carried in their luggage and
they parted at separate doors.  He promised to
return for Lori near seven.

Then he jumped back in the Buick and headed
downtown. He had same serious business to settle
immediately.

*  *  *  *

In an older district of Nashville, on a side street
lined with rundown buildings, David pulled to the
curb and went into a phone booth. As he dialed the
number he watched sudden wind scatter litter along
the scorching pavement. This call was vital  -- he had
to get rid of the hot car he was driving. The old man
must have reported the Buick stolen, and the cops
would be on the lookout for it.

He sighed with heavy relief when someone answered
at the other end. Yes, it could be worked out; yes,
he'd provide what David needed -- cash and a gun.

Three hours later David pulled into the Holiday Inn
driving a brand new candy-apple red Eldorado
Cadillac. In the car trunk were a few more
expensive suits for his wardrobe and beside him lay
a box of long stem red roses. 

He slid out of the Caddy and, whistling lightly, went
into his room to shower and get ready for his night
out on the town with Lori.

End Chapter Two

 Chapter Three

Inside her motel room Lori sat cross-legged on the
bed, a dreamy glow in her blue eyes. Her thoughts
were lingering over the ride to Nashville, the
awesome size of the city, and the grandeur of The
Hermitage. She was lost in tremendous sensations
of new discovery; an awareness of life beyond the
Cove; a world she'd never known. It was full of
surprises, intrigue, and beauty. Of course, she
hadn't failed to notice the contrast of po
wealth, just like back in the Cove. To be poor was
simply bad anywhere.

Lori uncrossed her legs and stared at her image
reflected in a wide mirror on the opposite wall. Her
eyes danced with the same light as David's and she
smiled remembering his warm, caring nature. Turning
her head slightly to one side, she inspected her blond
hair -- she'd have to shampoo it before tonight. She
wanted to look special, her first experience of the
night life she'd only read about. She felt a mixture
of fear and anticipation. But David would be there;
he'd take care of her. Of that, she had no doubt.

And what of David? Lori tried to define his
character in a clear, understandable way. She
couldn't! He was a puzzle, a riddle without rhyme.
Obviously he was wealthy, yet there was no trace of
snobbery in him, no uppity attitude. He was friendly,
intelligent, caring, kind and warm. 

However, there was another side to
David....melancholy in his eyes, his face sad at times.
And occasionally sparks of fire flickered is his eyes
when he talked of being poor, of the poverty in the
country -- but references to his past as an adult
were vague. He was secretive, private and
mysterious about his lifestyle. Just the slightest hint
from her about him being a `mystery' had brought a
warning in his grim-set jawline. Lori had restrained
herself from questions....besides, she had no right to
interrogate him. 

His melancholy though -- what had happened to
make him so sad? Was it another woman, maybe a
wife somewhere? Children, a broken home? What
could cause such deep misery in a man's eyes and
such fiery rage against society?

Lori looked again at her image in the mirror. It was
apparent David was attracted to her, although he
tried to hide it. She smiled. It was nice that she was
appealing to him and if she admitted the truth to
herself, she felt a stirring physical sensation for
David. 

With Billy there was only friendship, an aloof
attitude toward sexuality. Because she'd
desperately wanted to flee the Cove she had buried
her desires. Riding along today with David she'd felt
an unusual yearning, as if light flowed through her
when he'd touched her hand in the gift shop, an
awakening that began at the sound of his voice or
the glance of his dancing blue eyes. 

She steadied her trembling hands and smoothed her
hair. She had to stop these feelings because her
future depended on being in control of her emotions.
There was no place for romance at this stage of her
life. And she barely knew David. He was much older
than her, probably twenty years or more. Yes, she'd
smother these unsuitable feelings.

Quickly she walked into the bathroom for her
shower.

*  *  *  * 

At precisely seven sharp, there was a knock on
Lori's door. Taking one last look at her shining blond
hair, her neat fitting blue dress in the mirror, Lori
opened the door. 

David stood shifting from one foot to the other,
nervously holding a long white box. He smiled and
held out the box. "Lori, this is for you."

"Oh David, you shouldn't be buying me things!" But
she swirled around to the bed and sat down, eagerly
tearing into the box.

Her sharp intake of breath brought a happy chuckle
from David.  

"Roses...red roses! I love them most of all
flowers...how did you know?" Lori's face was bright
with joy as she lifted the delicate roses to her for a
scent of their fragrance. Her hands tenderly
touched the soft petals and she looked up at David.
"Thank you David. You're so good to me."

"Believe me honey, the pleasure's all mine. Just
seeing your happiness is reward enough. And might I
say you look prettier than ever tonight?" His eyes
twinkled as he gazed fondly at her.

"I'll put these in some water so they'll keep." Lori
walked to the dressing area, found a large ice
bucket and filled it with water. Delicately she placed
each rose in the bucket until the entire dozen made
a crowning bouquet. She put them on the night
stand. "Now tonight when I go to sleep I can smell
the scent of roses." 

She looked at David. "You sure do look handsome."

"Thank you Lori," David said as he smoothed his
casual shirt and pants; the clothing would blend into
the crowd at Tootsie's. He sure didn't want to
attract attention to himself. 

Walking out to the parking lot David said, "Lori, I've
got another surprise too. Remember my business this
afternoon? Well, look over there." He pointed to an
adjacent area bordered by low trimmed hedge. "See
that red Cadillac?"

"Sure, what about it?"

"It's mine...that was part of my business today."

"Oh David, oh no, it's beautiful! Is it really yours?"
Lori exclaimed with disbelief.

David nodded as they approached the car. "Yes, all
mine, bought and paid for. Never liked credit much
so I use the cash plan." He winked at Lori as he
opened the door for her.

Slipping onto the red velvet seat, Lori marveled at
the plush interior. She raved over how beautiful it
was, running her hands across the seats, then looked
to the dash in search of the radio.

As David slid into the driver's seat he assured her,
"Don't worry Lori, it's got a stereo system, four
speakers. And, an 8-track tape player. Look in the
back seat and grab that black case. It's full of
current pop hits, bought those tapes for you today."

"Oh you shouldn't have!"

"Stop that Lori.  I want to do these things, okay? No
debt, you still don't owe me. I want to enjoy those
tapes too." He started the car and backed out of
the parking place.

Lori popped in a tape and The Chi-Lites "Oh Girl"
flowed smoothly, as they headed to Tootsie's
Orchid Lounge.

*  *  *  * 

The evening at Tootsie's was exciting and
entertaining. As they had drinks David and Lori
began to realize the electricity between them. The
bar was crowded, dimly lit with flickering candles on
each table. A live country music band played on a
small stage, making conversation nearly impossible,
but the flow of feelings intensified as their eyes
met or hands touched. Separately, they vowed to
fight the attraction. But neither was having any
success.

Back at the motel they stood awkwardly between
the separate room doors. David looked into Lori's
upturned face, seeing the purity, the innocence he'd
never known in a woman. A wave of yearning swept
over him and he said, "Good night Lori. It's been a
helluva good night to be with you. Thank you so
much."

Lori corrected him, "I should be thanking you. Really,
you're the one who paid for it. But I did have fun! It
was different than I thought...exciting, not
dangerous. Guess I was wrong about bars being
dangerous."

"Well sugar, Tootsie's is a nice place, but other bars
could be dangerous for a girl alone."

"With you along I'd never have to worry." She
smiled shyly and looked down.

David tilted her chin up, gazing into her eyes again.
"Lori, you still don't owe me, your company is my
pleasure. You're young, innocent and your presence
makes me happier than I've been in a long time." As
he spoke, a painful look crossed his face.

"I'm glad I make you happy David. But you seem sad
sometimes," Lori said.

He smiled quickly, hiding his inner turmoil. "No, I'm
not sad, just lonesome sometimes. Course, can't
have everything in life." He stared out into the
darkness.

Lori touched his sleeve and stood on tiptoe to kiss
him softly on the cheek. She whispered in his ear,
"Thanks for a wonderful night." And then she
abruptly turned and, opening her door, disappeared
inside the room.

David walked quietly to his room. God, she was
precious! He had to leave tomorrow and get away
before it was too late! Too late to stop himself from
caring too much and letting things get out of control.
He couldn't have a woman in his life. 

His brow creased in a frown, painful memories
rushing into his mind...bad times, hard times, times he
never wanted Lori to know about.

*  *  *  *

Saturday morning, David was awakened by knocking
at his door. He immediately checked to see that his
.25 Barretta was still stashed underneath the
bedside table. He jerked it out and cocked it, then
grabbed a robe and concealed the gun in a pocket.
Looking at his watch he saw it was eight-thirty.

He went to the windows, pulled the curtain back
slightly, saw Lori standing outside his door. He
quickly went to the door, asked, "Who is it?"

Lori replied, "It's me David. Can I talk to you a
minute, please?"

David's eyes scanned the room quickly to make sure
nothing was in view that would disturb her. He put
the gun away and then satisfied all was clear, he
opened the door. "Come in Lori, what's up?"

Lori rushed into the room and stumbled to a chair.
Her face was streaked with tears and David was
shocked at her distress. He went instantly to her
side. "Lori what on earth happened? Tell me, what's
wrong....why're you crying?"

Lori stammered, "Oh David, you won't believe what I
found out this morning! I can't believe it! I'm so
stupid! I should have never left the Cove." She
dissolved into fresh tears.

David had an uncomfortable moment, wondering if
she'd found out about him? But then decided that
was impossible. "Come on now," he urged gently, "it
can't be all that bad. Just tell me what's wrong."

"Well," she sobbed and sniffled, straightening up
and making an effort to talk. "This morning real
early I got up and started looking through the airline
brochures I'd brought from home. I found phone
numbers to call here in Nashville. So, I called all of
them. And you know what David?" 

She looked at him with disbelief. "They won't even
interview me. But you'll never guess why! It's
because I'm only twenty! And also, I'm only barely
five foot tall, they want girls at least five-foot, two-
inches! I knew about the height problem but I
thought I might still be accepted. The age is a new
rule!" She shook her head disgustedly. "The only
hope I have is in Birmingham, Alabama. One lady
from a smaller airline said they might accept
someone like me, but their main recruiting office
was in Birmingham. Most airlines want girls over
twenty-one and with college or business training!" 

She cradled her face in her hands a moment. "I
should have stayed in the Cove where an ignorant
hillbilly like me belongs!" And tears welled up in her
eyes again as she looked at David.

David sat on the edge of the bed and looked at Lori.
It killed him to see her upset and despairing, but he
had to be honest. "Lori, you're not stupid, nor should
you have stayed in the Cove all your life if you didn't
want to...but, it IS a tough world out here. It's not
easy, believe me. Financial livelihood is the main
thing, and it's a dog eat dog world. You've been
sheltered and secure, away from cut-throat
competition. I hate to see you disappointed like this
though. I know how it feels. You see, I felt it a long
time ago too -- disappointment, failure, poverty,
hopelessness and the fear of being a loser in life."

"But David," Lori gasped, "you're not a failure! Just
look at your car, your clothes, your life. I mean, you
must be a big success."

He grinned wryly. "Well sugar, I wouldn't go so far
as to say I'm a success in everyone's eyes but in my
line of business I do okay. I've known failure
though. In my business failure can be a disaster. But
that's not what we're discussing, it's you I'm
worried about. Do you think it'd be worth a trip to
Birmingham for the job interview? I can take you..."

Lori shifted uncomfortably. "I can't let you take me
all the way to Birmingham. I'm sure you have other
business to take care of. We were supposed to go
our separate ways when we got to Nashville,
remember?"

David stood and walked to the dressing area. He
searched on the table for his Camels and lit one as
he returned to the bed. "Lori I can do business in
any city, so Birmingham's fine by me." He got an
ashtray. "Besides, I've done business in several large
southern cities." He flicked off the cigarette ashes
and smiled at Lori.

"Well...if you're sure. I would like to try, just once,
and if I can't get a break there...so long to dreams
of flying!" Lori stood, walked to the mirror and
wiped at her tear-smudged face. "I'm sorry for
making a scene this early. I was just so upset and
you're the only one..." She paused, then continued,
"I'm sorry, I don't want you to feel I'm totally
dependent on you." She turned away in
embarrassment.

David walked over and lifted her face to him. "Lori,
I'll be here for you until you find a job. You don't
think I'd dump a sweet innocent girl in one of these
damn wild cities without a means of income, do you?
I couldn't sleep at night if I did."

"David Keller, you're a good man. I can't imagine
why you're doing all this for me. But I do appreciate
it, I really do!" She reached for David's hand,
squeezing softly as she looked at him. "Thank you.
Yes, I want to try for the job in Birmingham."

David felt a rush of warmth flow through him, a
fierce protectiveness. But he was also aware of
Lori's hand in his, how her touch electrified his
growing attraction to her. He ached to reach out
and caress her face; to lightly trace her lips with his
fingertips; to softly touch his lips to hers. 

Deliberately he withdrew his hand and said
carefully, "Lori you still won't owe me. We're in this
together till you find a job. I took you out of the
Cove and I'm responsible. Let's pack our bags and
hit the road for Birmingham." 

He walked over to the ashtray and flicked off his
cigarette ashes. Feeling relieved she'd be with him
awhile longer, he added enthusiastically, "And
remember, there's more of the country to see yet!"

Lori had seen the dancing light return to David's
eyes when they'd held hands and she felt his
happiness now, which made her happy too. Smiling
sweetly as she headed to the door she said lightly,
"I'll be ready soon, and I can't wait to see more of
the country."

Alone, David shrugged his shoulders. What could he
do? She needed him and, as bad as he hated to
admit it, he was afraid he was beginning to need her
too.

*  *  *  *

Within the hour they were cruising down Interstate
65 , heading south to Birmingham. When they'd
gotten into the Cadillac David had reminded Lori to
mail the spoon to her Ma. At the first postal box
Lori had dropped in the spoon and a short letter
telling her folks she was well and hoped to be
settled soon. Driving away, David had sighed with
relief. Didn't need her folks worrying -- or worse,
contacting the law.

The trip to Birmingham was uneventful. Rolling
farmland unfolded in front of them as they made
their way into Alabama. Hills gave way to sloping
inclines, then gradual flattening of ground revealing
fenced cattle pastures; an occasional soybean field
with plants in long, even rows; or corn fields where
the short leafy stalks swayed in a morning breeze. 

The sun beat down relentlessly but David had the air
conditioner on, making their ride inside the plush
Cadillac a dream, with pop songs in the tape player.
But Lori was extremely anxious about the upcoming
airline interview. Her hands clasped tightly in her lap
to keep from fidgeting nervously. 

David saw her worry and joked around, trying to
ease her tension. Nothing he said helped in the least. 

Lori was struggling to hold onto a dream that was
somehow dying in the light of reality.

Miles and hours rolled past, the time dissolving into
the monotony of interstate travel. Finally David said,
"Only twenty more miles till we roll into the Magic
City!"

Lori looked eagerly at the roadside sign. "Oh David,
now I'm really going to be nervous because we're
almost there."

"Honey, don't you worry, we'll get you to the
airport, and you'll do fine. But even if you can't
become a stewardess...there are other jobs you
might like. And just remember, I'll never abandon
you." He smiled an encouraging smile, his white teeth
gleaming in the sunlight.

Lori avoided his gaze. "I don't know David...I'm
scared and worried."

David placed his hand gently on her shoulder.
"Honey, look at me."

Lori lifted her troubled eyes to him. He gave her an
encouraging smile, then returned his attention to the
highway. "Lori sugar, you'll never have to worry
about money as long as I'm around." He glanced at
her quickly and saw her face betray her feelings for
him, and added,  "Lori, you're special...real special
and don't you forget it."

Lori blushed and looked out the window, lost in
thoughts of David. He'd helped her so much...and
given of himself unselfishly. She felt guilty not giving
in return. Suddenly she turned back to David. "I
didn't tell you this...but, I've got three hundred
dollars I saved from working in the mill. That money
will get me settled in a small apartment and help tide
me over until my first pay check. So once I get a
job, you won't have to hang around if you have
other business to attend to." She smiled at him,
thinking he'd approve.

David sighed and took a cigarette from his shirt
pocket. He slowly flipped out his new lighter and lit
the cigarette, took a deep drag and let the smoke
curl out of his slightly parted lips. "Lori it's great
you saved some money... but, sorry to say, it won't
last you long, probably wouldn't even get you a
decent place to stay." He shook his head. "It's
expensive to live in a city. No honey...that money will
be gone in a hurry."

Lori's smile faded, and she felt foolish.

Seeing her face, David rushed on hurriedly, "Now,
don't get upset...you won't have to use your money.
Remember, I said I'd help you."

After making a right turn, David swung into a gas
station. Pulling up to the pumps he rolled down his
window and asked the station attendant, a fresh-
faced young man, for a full tank of gas. When the
pump rang and the boy collected the cash, David
added a twenty dollar tip. 

Soon they were pulling into a Holiday Inn parking lot
as David checked his watch. "Lori, it's already one
o'clock. Do you mind if we register and then split up
awhile? I want to check on one of my old business
partners downtown. You can rest and maybe call the
airline, ask when you can get an appointment."

Lori agreed, "Sure David, that's fine with me. Since
it's Saturday, I may have to wait till Monday to see
someone."

"That will be fine with me, no rush. Are you sure you
don't mind waiting till then?"

"I guess not, maybe I can calm down by then."

They registered at the desk for separate rooms.
David carried in their suitcases and urged Lori to
rest, telling her he might have another surprise for
her that night.

Confused and tired, Lori closed and locked the door
when David left.

*  *  *  *

David walked briskly to his room. Once inside, he
picked up the phone, and called one of his partners,
who was to meet him in Birmingham. Jack had
agreed to be in the city when David had called him
from Nashville.

After talking to Jack, David headed out to pick up
the guns and false I.D. he'd requested and some
money -- the cash was his cut from recent criminal
activity. Jack was only holding it till David could
arrange a meeting. And he sure needed the cash
now, for he wanted to give Lori anything she wanted
or needed.

End Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Later that afternoon, David knocked on Lori's door.
When she let him in, he gave her a juicy pizza he'd
brought.

They ate companionably, Lori quiet, subdued. Finally
unable to bear the silence, David said, "Sugar,
you're not still worried about that airline interview,
are you?"

Lori admitted, "Yeah, I am. I got an appointment for
Monday morning."

"Hey, that's great." But David was lying; he knew if
she got a job, he'd be history.

"I don't know... I mean, I've been thinking that
maybe...maybe I don't want to be an airline
stewardess."

"Well, that's really up to you. I'll stick by you, no
matter what." David took the last sip of his coke,
studying Lori's confused face.

"David, I guess I'll think it over this weekend, decide
by Monday. If...I wanted to return to the Cove,
would you take me?"

"Of course I would take you back. But don't rush
into any decision, just wait and see how you feel
Monday."

Lori gathered up the napkins, coke cups, the pizza
box and put it all in the garbage can, saying, "I'm
sort of tired tonight, you didn't have anything
planned, did you?"

"No sugar, would you just like some time alone?"

"I don't mean to seem like I'm not grateful for all
you've done, but I guess I do want to just think
about...things." Lori gazed at him, thinking how
wonderful he'd been to her.

David walked to the door, said, "I understand, no
problem."

Impulsively, Lori went to him, standing very close,
then gave him a kiss on his cheek. "Thank you."

But suddenly David could no longer stop himself
from pulling her into his arms, moving his lips to
cover hers, their first kiss slowly building into deep,
lingering rapture. 

Lori was drowning in his powerful attraction, and
when he pulled away, apologizing, "I'm sorry...I
shouldn't..." she again met his lips with hers, kissing
him fiercely and with total abandon to passion.
She'd never felt so alive in her life!

At last, David pulled back, putting her firmly away
from him. "Sugar...I have to go. I...don't trust myself
with you, not just now."

Lori looked away, slightly embarrassed at her
boldness. "It's my fault too, you don't have to run."

"Oh yes I do. We'll...talk tomorrow morning, but for
now, you need to get some rest, have some time
alone. But if you need anything, just knock on the
wall here between us, and I'll be over in a minute." 

David went out the door, afraid to stay any longer.

And Lori sat down on the bed, stunned at the
sensual desire that had suddenly ignited between
them as they kissed.

*  *  *  *

Lori took a long warm bath and then lingered in bed
watching Johnny Carson. The TV programs had not
impressed her, and she thought that Ma and Pa were
not missing much. She slipped beneath the covers at
last and turned out the bedside lamp. The room was
spooky in darkness, but she wasn't frightened,
knowing David was next door. The sound of an
occasional car motor and car doors slamming
mingled with voices outside her room. People were
still arriving for the night. 

The noises made Lori uncomfortable and she felt
tense, unable to fall asleep. Tossing and turning she
finally began daydreaming of David. His kiss had
surprised and aroused her. But she knew he was
holding himself back. What would he be like if he
allowed his passion to rule? The thought frightened
and excited her simultaneously.

How alive she felt with David! She remembered
Billy's lovesick eyes and his hesitant attempts to
arouse her passion. He was young, eager and
awkward, just a teenager. David was an older man,
with a mature man's desires. His obvious attempts
to restrain himself left her wanting him all the more!
She could sense the depth of longing and desire
within him, but he seemed reluctant to express it,
except for his mention of being lonely.

It wasn't her usual behavior to make the first move
but she had been unable to stop herself from kissing
his cheek, then succumbing to his ardent kiss. His
sad, stricken eyes seemed to beg for a tender look,
a soft word, a gesture of love. Yes, that was
it...David's whole being seemed to beg for love...his
sad, wistful eyes, the longing and heartache
occasionally flickering across his face. 

She wanted to give David her love, and the
realization was startling. Partly she was fearful of
this new emotional involvement and partly David's
secrecy, his evasion of his business and livelihood.
These things upset her but the thought of him
needing her love overcame her reservations.
Whatever David's business or livelihood...it didn't
change the growing feelings between them. The
passion was barely contained; her love only
concealed by fear of openness. She knew he desired
her, but as for love...well, perhaps it was too soon to
expect him to love her.

But Lori knew she was falling desperately in love
with David -- this was the overwhelming feeling
she'd only read about, and perhaps a once-in-a-
lifetime love.

Lori snuggled into the bed pillow and sighed dreamily.
Monday she would not bother to go for the airline
interview. Her heart ached with tenderness and joy
as she contemplated the look on David's face when
she told him her news. Would her love remove his
brooding melancholy? Was he also falling in love with
her?

*  *  *  * 

Sunday morning, Lori dressed in her jeans and a
blue blouse. She'd shampooed her hair, and it shone
in the sunlight streaming in the window as she stood
before the mirror. 

She'd been up at daylight, unable to rest because
she was so eager to share her surprise with David.

When his knock sounded, she hurriedly opened the
door.

He stood there holding a small wrapped package,
and said, "For you."

"Oh David, you..."

"Don't say it, remember? I told you I wanted to
give you things, and it's my pleasure." He laughed
lightly, then gestured to the clear sky. "Beautiful
day, we have to do something special today."

Lori took the package, saying, "Come on in, let me
see what this is!"

As she tore off the wrapping, David watched raptly,
enjoying her excitement.  When she took out a small
jewelry box, her eyes lit up and then she opened it
to see a beautiful gold bracelet. "Oh, it's so pretty!"

"Put it on honey, let's see how it looks on your
wrist." He moved to help her, and as he held her
hand, he felt the overwhelming need to hold her, to
kiss her, to make her his forever. But with
determination, he calmly held up the bracelet and
asked, "Hey, what does this inscription say?"

Lori looked at it closely, reading, "For Lori, From
David, 1972."

Her eyes misted with tears, and she whispered,
"Thank you, I'll never part with it."

He fastened it on her slender, pale wrist, then
brought her hand up to kiss it gently; she put her
arms around him, and pulled him to her for a kiss,
but he quickly stepped back, saying, "Lori, how would
you like to see the Magic City from atop Vulcan, the
Iron Man high on Red Mountain?"

Lori brushed a stray strand of hair from her face.
"Yes, I'd love that. David, you're the kindest, most
thoughtful man in the world."

David laughed and turned her toward the door.
"Just wish I was half the man you seem to think I
am."

She grabbed her purse, and  they went out to the
car, her saying, "Oh, but you are! I know you are the
man I feel you to be."

David opened the car door for her, but then paused,
his hand on her arm, looking down seriously into her
eyes. "Lori, no matter what else happens, always
remember that I am the man you have come to know
in the past few days."

She nodded, surprised at his somber voice. But then
they were in the car and heading through downtown
Birmingham toward Red Mountain.

*  *  *  *

As the Cadillac purred easily up the curving
mountainside, Lori was reminded of the mountains
surrounding the Cove, and felt homesick. She saw
the looming statue of Vulcan, a gray metallic
monster perched high atop the mountain. They pulled
into the parking lot and in the distance she could see
blinking red lights of TV and radio transmitters --
where local stations had their studios.

They walked across the grounds, and David guided
her gently through the open doorway to the visitor
window. He paid for their tickets and they walked to
the nearby elevator for a ride to the top floor.
When the doors slid open the expansive interior was
striking -- a vast panoramic view of the city below
surrounded the circular room of windows. Only a
few people sauntered through the area where
sunlight glinted off the polished tile floors.

In the center of the round interior was a series of
bulletin boards with various brochures explaining the
history of Vulcan. David retrieved one brochure and
read: "From foot to tip of the outstretched hand,
Vulcan is 55 feet tall. The statue stands atop a
pedestal 124 feet high so that the monument as a
whole rises to a height of 179 feet taller than
Niagara Falls. Since Vulcan is on the crest of a
mountain he surveys the City of Birmingham from an
elevation of nearly six hundred feet, or just over
the height of the Washington Monument, tallest
Shaft in America. Vulcan is the largest iron figure
ever cast."

He whistled softly under his breath, "Imagine that
sugar."

But Lori had hurried over to a telescope positioned
nearby. "Oh David, look! I can't believe it....it's just
like the bluff back home." She gazed out the
window, her face flushed. "Back home there's a
bluff that overlooks the valley, and it's sort of like
this. On a clear day you can see for miles and miles."
She stared dreamily out the window.

David placed a quarter in the telescope. "Honey, look
in this telescope and you'll see the city better."

Lori gazed through the telescope and gasped. "Oh
David...it's great! I can see smoke from factories,
cars on the interstate, and over there, a plane is
coming in for a landing!"

David leaned against the railing by the window and
chuckled at Lori's excitement. She was like a child,
breathlessly excited by every new sight.
Transparent, unable to hide her enthusiasm and joy.
He felt old, jaded and almost incapable of being
shocked or surprised by anything anymore. Yet he
did get pleasure from simply watching Lori enjoying
herself.

He took a Camel out of his shirt pocket. Lori
continued to rave over the telescopic view. Other
people passed them, occasionally smiling at Lori's
exuberance. David smoked his cigarette and looked
out at the early morning sky -- a hint of wispy
clouds appearing on the horizon. Down below the
city bustled with activity, people no doubt filling up
the Sunday morning church benches. 

David sighed and glanced at the factory smoke
stacks, thinking about the fiery furnaces inside the
steel mills. The thought of those poor souls grinding
in ceaseless labor for a paltry existence suddenly
brought fire to his eyes again. He stubbed out his
cigarette in a nearby ashtray stand and turned to
Lori. "Honey, what do you think of Birmingham now?"

Lori released her grasp on the telescope and looked
at David. In the morning glare of sunlight she
noticed the tired lines in his face. She said, "It looks
unbelievable, far off, unreal."

David draped his arm over Lori's shoulder and they
walked around the circular room. At the center they
read all the information on the statue and learned
of the historical contribution Birmingham had made
in iron ore and steel production, how Birmingham had
grown swiftly because of it's vast production in the
steel industry and rich deposits of iron ore.

When they finished studying the pamphlets the area
was deserted; only Lori and David remained standing
at the windows. David eased onto a bench and pulled
Lori down beside him.

"Let's rest a minute sugar."

Lori stared into his weary eyes. Her voice was soft
as she whispered to him, "I love you David."

David blinked in confusion and shook his head, his
eyes growing alarmed. "Honey, don't tell me you
just said what I thought you did."

She smiled. "What do you think I said?"

"That you... No, you couldn't have said what I
thought you did." He looked out the window, turning
away from her.

She touched his face with her hand, looked into his
eyes. "David Keller, I love you."

His expression was incredulous; he was stunned.
"Honey, that's just not possible. You don't know me.
You couldn't love me if you knew me."

Lori exclaimed, "David Keller, don't tell me I don't
know you! In the last few days I've learned more
about you than anyone I've ever known. I DO know
you...the real you! Just this morning you told me I
did know you, remember? And I repeat, I do love
you." She lowered her voice, "I love you VERY
much." She took his hand and pressed closer to him. 

In spite of his resolve not to, he began to feel hope.
He gently lowered his head and their lips met in a
tender, lingering kiss.

Lori pulled away at last and looked up into David's
eyes. "Let's go. We need to talk somewhere private."

They stood, and with their hands holding tightly,
walked to the elevator.

Once inside the Cadillac David asked, "Where to
Lori?"

"Back to the motel..."

David glanced at her, deeply concerned. "Lori, let's
go to the Zoo, walk around awhile and talk...." He
sighed. "Honey, we need to talk about what you just
said, but not alone. The Zoo has picnic tables, and
since we skipped breakfast, we can get some lunch,
talk there." 

He started the car and headed for the Birmingham
Zoo.

The drive across town was full of unspoken
thoughts racing through both David and Lori's minds.
The Caddy wove through the city streets, onto the
interstate, back down the off-ramp and headed up
Cahaba Road leading to the Zoo. 

David was rapidly trying to formulate a plan for
stalling Lori's intentions. He couldn't let Lori love
him. It was inconceivable to him. He'd never loved a
woman, never let one love him, become emotionally
close to him...and there was a reason. As long as he
was a criminal he had no place for a woman in his
life. He looked briefly at Lori's translucent skin, her
pale face delicate in the weaving light patterns.
What was he to tell her?

Lori noticed David's brief glance; she knew he was
resisting the love she offered. Why he was being
unyielding to her love, she didn't know...but it was
obvious he was struggling with himself. She looked at
the shafts of sunlight falling across his face, his
haggard, drawn expression. Her heart ached to hold
him, to kiss him, to give him the love he seemed so
desperately in need of. She glanced at the blacktop
highway, saw a sign indicating the zoo entrance
ahead.

David slowed, turned on the blinker. "Well honey,
here it is....the Birmingham Zoo."

"David, are you sure you want to stroll through the
Zoo when we could be back at the motel and have
some privacy?"

"Lori, it's easier this way."

"Okay, whatever you say. I do love animals and I've
never been to a Zoo. Back home I saw all kinds of
animals though. Ma used to have a little doe she
nursed back to life. I loved it, so sweet and gentle.
And there were black bears in the mountains. Do you
remember seeing them when you were young?"

"Yeah, but my Pa was a bear trapper." David's lips
tightened into a thin line as he pulled into a parking
space. 

The parking lot was jammed with cars, people
hustling to purchase tickets. Quite a line was
forming at the gate. Little children squealed
delightedly and mothers tried to hold onto them.
When Lori and David emerged from the cool car, a
blast of sweltering heat stunned them.

David took Lori by the arm. "Let's head to the picnic
area over there under those shade trees till the
crowd thins out." He pointed toward a grassy
expanse underneath abundantly leafy oaks. 

They held hands and walked toward the picnic
tables. Lori slid onto a bench and David hesitated
beside her, still standing. He looked around casually
and then said, "Honey, see that little snack stand
over there? I'll go get us some lunch and cold
drinks."

Lori said, "Okay, I'm kinda thirsty...so hot and humid
today." She took a Kleenex from her purse and
patted the beads of perspiration from her forehead.

David looked past thick leafy trees and saw a
glimpse of sky...the wispy clouds of this morning
were rapidly mounting into a forceful presence.
"Sugar," he warned, "we'll have to eat and hurry on
to see the animals, may rain this afternoon."

"Whatever you think David." 

Lori watched him head for the snack stand. His tall,
lean body moved with a purposeful stride across the
shaded ground. As he reached the line, a little girl of
about three toddled over to him and began tugging
at his pant's leg. David picked her up, bouncing her in
his arms, and smiling affably as he talked to the
mother. He finally relinquished the little girl to her
mother's arms and as they walked away, the slump
returned to David's shoulders. As Lori stared at him
she wondered why she felt so much sadness in
David? His occasional slouch, his dejected gaze into
the middle distance made her think of him as
melancholy now. 

Oddly, when she'd first talked to him, when she'd
asked for the ride to Nashville, Lori had thought him
exciting, charming and upbeat...but now that she'd
been around him more, he seemed almost...defeated,
lost and lonely.

As David paid for the food and came back to the
table, Lori tried to hide the confusion she felt. They
ate hamburgers silently, David seeming pensive.

At last he asked, "Lori what about your job
interview on Monday?"

She shook her head. "I'm not going."

"But why? I thought you wanted to become a
stewardess? Sugar, you can if that's what you
really want."

Avoiding his probing stare, Lori finished her drink
and said, "I...don't want to talk about it right now.
Let's go see some of the animals now, okay?"

They walked to the gate, David paid for them, and
soon they were walking along the sidewalk paths
inside the zoo.

Each path twisted and turned without warning,
revealing a new and exotic animal. Just past the
entry, pink Flamingos stood on thin long legs in a
shallow pool of clear aqua water. Green foliage
bordered the waters edge and the pink feathers of
the Flamingo contrasted vividly with the lush
background. Lori admired the exotic birds as David
read the plaque aloud, both watching the birds
gracefully move around the pool of water. 

Then they entered a long glassed partition that
separated the Ape Species from other animals. Lori
giggled at the monkey's antics and was shocked at
the size of the larger apes. 

Outside, paths led to giraffes, hippos, zebras, polar
bears, and all the species kept in zoos. Lori was
enjoying the experience as they walked slowly
through the grounds, crowds jostling them. 

Before long though, thunder rumbled in the distance.
Lori exclaimed, "Oh no David, we've stayed too late.
Maybe we should head for the car?"

David looked around; they were in the eastern
section among the larger animals. He realized they
wouldn't make it back to the car just as a loud
thunderclap hit. He spotted a pavilion which was
already filling with people. 

"Come on Lori, let's hurry to that place." He
grabbed her by the hand and they ran to the
pavilion.

Underneath the temporary cover they snuggled
closely together as the crowd of people rushed out
of the storm and onto the sheltered pavilion. People
began to shove and push, crowding everyone into
close contact. An elderly lady stood at the edge of
the shelter, getting wet in the first sprinkles of rain. 

David moved away from Lori and stepped to the
lady's side. "Ma'am would you like to take my place?
You don't need to get soaked in this downpour."

The lady's eyes brightened with surprise. "Why,
thank you sir....I'd sure appreciate it."

David led her to Lori. He then joined a group of men
standing out in the rain so that women could have
shelter.

The haired-haired lady said to Lori, "My, isn't he a
nice gentleman? That was so considerate of him to
offer me his place!"

Lori smiled proudly. "Yes, David is a kind man." Her
eyes rested upon David as the pounding rain soaked
his clothes. He looked so humble standing there, a
forlorn droop to his shoulders. Her heart ached to
comfort him and suddenly all the love of earlier that
day returned. 

She looked at the lady. "He and I are going to be
married soon."

The lady looked startled, perhaps due to the obvious
age difference, but she quickly hid her surprise and
said, "Well he sure seems like a fine man. I wish you
both all the best."

When the rain shower slowed to a drizzle, David and
Lori walked to the car. Lori's clothing became wet
and clung to her. 

At the car she stopped David from unlocking her
door by saying, "Touch me David," and taking his
hand, placed his fingers against her moist lips. 

Gently he traced her lips. 

Her eyes were shining with love. "David, I love you."

They got in the Cadillac and headed toward the
motel.

*   *  *  *

"Lori, please don't ask me why, I can't explain it to
you." David was sitting near the window in his motel
room; his head was hanging sadly and a cigarette
rested between his thin fingers. Smoke curled into
his eyes and he blinked, running his fingers through
his short blond-blond hair in a frustrated gesture.

Suddenly he stood and stubbed out the cigarette.
"That's all I can say for now. Give me some time,
please. Tomorrow I promise to explain things
better." 

He paced around the room, his face anxious.
"Honey, you'll never know how I feel right this
minute -- confused, worried and...I just want to do
the right thing." 

He faced Lori, who was standing near the door.
"God Lori, I do want to be with you but..." He looked
anguished and turned his back to her. Shrugging his
shoulders he said, "Please go. I don't trust myself
with you right now. Please, just go. We'll talk
tomorrow morning."

Lori silently opened the door, her heart breaking. 

"And honey," David added, "lock your door. I want
you to be safe." He heard the faint sound of the
door closing and breathed a sigh of relief.

Lori walked sadly to her room. Inside she locked the
door behind her and went to the bathroom and
began to run a warm tub of water. Slipping out of
her clothes she sank into the bathwater and began
to reflect on David. 

When they'd pulled into the parking lot at the motel
he'd simply insisted he couldn't be with her now.
She'd protested and they'd wound up in his room.
He was so reluctant, so worried...but why? 

Lori melted into the tub of water and let her tears
fall freely. Somehow, some way she would get past
David's reluctance. Perhaps he had a wife
somewhere?  But that didn't explain his loneliness,
his sadness -- or the seething anger she had
glimpsed in him occasionally.

There was something elusive and mysterious about
David. He was evasive about his adult life -- but by
now Lori realized she didn't care what kind of
business he was in, or what had happened in his past.
His need for her was all that mattered. He needed
love and she felt love for him. And even if he had a
wife she surely wasn't giving him the love he needed. 

As Lori toweled herself dry she looked at herself in
the mirror: her body was young, firm and desirable.
She blushed at her thoughts -- but knew that the
desire she felt for David was very real. 

Slipping into bed she thought about how she had
changed since leaving the Cove. Here she was in love
with a man not much more than a stranger to her.
Maybe that was what attracted her? That he was
intriguing, mysterious...and possibly dangerous?

Pulling the sheet over her she tried to fathom
David's reticence, while at the same time knowing he
desired her in every way. She stared into the dark
room and knew she didn't want to be sleeping alone
tonight. She wanted David to be with her, holding
her, making love to her. 

The thought shocked her. She was a virgin, a nice
girl and had never imagined a sexual encounter
outside of marriage. But there was no doubt in her
mind or heart, she wanted to be with David --
whatever the arrangement. 

She closed her eyes and vowed to win him over
tomorrow.

*  *  *  *

David got into bed, burdened by his situation with
Lori. Lying there looking at the ceiling, he knew time
was running out _ he was in love with Lori, and he
was getting dangerously close to losing control. It
might be too late to sever the bond they'd already
formed together. 

He rolled over restlessly and pondered on
tomorrow. He would have to tell her there was
danger, but he couldn't reveal his criminal activity.
Only that there was risk and grave danger. Perhaps
some of the truth, but not all. It would then be her
decision. 

He closed his eyes and tried to ignore a feeling of
doom on the horizon. He didn't want to hurt
Lori...but, God he was in love with her! If only he
could change the past, start with a clean slate...but
he knew that was impossible. And worse, he knew he
might never be able to give up his life of crime.

End Chapter Four


Chapter Five

Opening his motel door, sunlight glare off the
Cadillac hit David's eyes, and he blinked, looking up
at the clear morning sky. He walked briskly to Lori's
room and tapped lightly. He heard stirring within and
shifted nervously from foot to foot, raking his thin
fingers through his hair. He glanced down at this
casual pants and shirt, adjusting his dark brown tie,
and smiled as the door opened. 

Lori shielded her eyes with a raised hand against the
morning brightness. "David, it's so early...I was still
asleep." She pulled her robe close. "I'm sorry, guess
I overslept."

David laughed. "No sugar, I'm just up too early." He
paused awkwardly. "I didn't sleep too well last
night." He looked distractedly toward the car, then
shrugged his shoulders and grinned. "How about
some breakfast on this early Monday morning? We
didn't eat last night."

"Yeah, now that you mention it, I'm starving," Lori
said.

"Come on, slip into some clothes and I'll be waiting
out here for you." David turned toward the car and
Lori retreated into the room.

Later, Lori emerged in faded jeans and a red T-
shirt. 

As she walked over to the Caddy David gave her an
appreciative glance, then opened the car door for
her. 

David slid behind the wheel and they drove out of
the parking lot and onto the highway. "What kind of
breakfast would you like?"

"Oh David, whatever you want will be fine with me
too."

"Okay, we'll try Shoney's...they have a good
breakfast selection."

The Monday morning rush-hour traffic was heavy,
and Lori felt nervous in the midst of the speeding
cars and trucks on the interstate. David noticed her
tense expression and glanced at her fidgeting hands. 

He leaned over and touched her arm. "Lori, I am
experienced driving in this kind of traffic, don't be
afraid."

She looked into his cool blue eyes and sensed David
had nerves of steel -- in fact, the frenetic pace, the
obvious danger seemed to make him calmer. Puzzled,
she stared at him as he turned back to the highway.

"Honey," he said, "don't ever let fear grip you like
that, it can destroy a person."

"I'm sorry, it just seems dangerous."

"Sugar, danger's everywhere. You have to learn to
deal with it or it'll destroy you." He flicked on the
blinker and merged into another lane, squeezing in
between two diesel trucks.

Lori trembled as she heard one of the diesels hit the
airhorn; she jerked her head to the rear. The truck
was pressing closer.

"David, look," she exclaimed, gesturing behind them,
"he's too close!" 

David quickly glanced in the rearview mirror, and
muttered, "Damn truckdrivers...think they own the
roads."

Lori watched the diesel pull out, then pass, and she
sighed with relief. "Oh David, that was too close." 

David remained silent a moment, then turned
abruptly to her. "You have to learn how to deal with
danger. You can't let fear rule your thinking." He
suddenly swung his gaze back to the highway. "I'm
sorry Lori but, you see, fear and danger must be
conquered. I've had to learn how to master both in
my life." 

Confused, Lori looked out the window, wondering
about why he'd had to master fear and danger in his
life.

 *  *  *  *

After finishing their breakfast at Shoney's, David lit
a cigarette and watched Lori take the last sip of her
coffee. He knew she was curious about his life, but
before she could ask questions he said, "Lori, what
time is your appointment with the airline?"

"Um, it's not important." She wiped her mouth with
the napkin, adding, "I'm not going."

"But sugar, you wanted to try, remember?"

"I don't now..." Lori put her hand over his on the
table. "I love you David, and I want to be with you,
not working at the airline."

"I don't want to cause you to miss out on this
chance, it might make you hate me at some time in
the future."

"David...don't you love me?" Lori had to ask, though
it took all her nerve.

"Oh sugar...yes, I love you." David felt self-
conscious, seeing other people nearby, some
watching them curiously. "Look, let's go back to the
motel, we can talk there in private."

"Okay...I am glad you love me." Lori smiled, though
she still felt worried about his cool attitude.

Back at the motel they went directly to Lori's room.
The bed was unmade and clothing was scattered
where she left it. As Lori grabbed an armload of
clothing, David suddenly pulled her to him, tossing
the clothes to the floor. He lowered his lips to meet
hers, and kissed her tenderly, his passion tightly
leashed. 

Then he went to a chair and sat down. "Lori," he
said, "the time has come for us to have a serious
talk and, in all truth, I never thought I'd be in this
position."

Lori looked at him. "David, before you start, I want
you to know that no matter what you tell me I'll still
love you. Nothing could change that."

"You're so damn naive honey!" He glanced at her
and then turned to stare out the window. His head
dropped and he looked at the floor a moment, his
hands busily searching for a cigarette. He rubbed
his forehead and then lit his cigarette. "Damn, I
don't know what to say honey." He looked at her
blue shining eyes filled with innocent love. "Shit! This
is harder than I thought it'd be!" He jumped up and
began pacing around the room.

Lori whispered softly, "David you don't have to tell
me anything you don't want to. I trust you, I love
you."

He held up his hand and shook his head. "You don't
know me Lori. You think you know me...and, in some
ways, you do. I AM the man you have felt me to be
over the last few days but sugar..." 

He hesitated and took a long drag on his cigarette.
"See, it's just that..." He looked at her trusting eyes,
her innocent love. How could he take a chance on
destroying the only love he'd ever known? He
yearned to have her with him, to have this pure white
passionate love, to have the joy he'd never felt in
life. It would be like killing himself to tell her and
see that love turn to disgust, maybe fear and
repulsion. 

He kept staring at her fragile, beautiful face and
knew he couldn't do it. "Lori, it's about my business.
Remember what I said about fear and danger?"

She nodded silently.

"Well, there's fear and danger in my business and if
I try to explain, it would only frighten you, cause
you to worry. I am the person you've fallen in love
with, but my business is separate, something apart
from my love for you."

Lori's face brightened. "You don't have a wife or
children?"

David was momentarily confused, then realized why
she'd looked so afraid. "No, not ever! Not even one
wife. And, of course, no children. As a matter of
fact Lori, I'm in love with you and you're the only
woman I've ever been in love with."

Lori ran over and threw her arms around him. "Oh
David, I was afraid you had a wife somewhere! I'm
so glad you don't, and now we can be together! I
love you so much!"

David held her away from him and looked down into
her eager eyes. "Hey, we're both in love,
sweetheart. What do you say we make it official?
Will you marry me?"

Lori's eyes misted with tears and she hugged David
tightly. On tiptoe she whispered in his ear, "Yes, oh
yes...I'll marry you! I love you and want to be with
you forever."

David cautiously asked,  "What about my business? I
can't be talking about it...and you'll have to adjust to
my lifestyle, lots of traveling, moving around. I'm
hardly ever in one city longer than a few days. No
home. Of course, someday we might settle
down...maybe back in the Cove." 

He looked into her eyes again. "That's my dream, to
go back to the Cove and live peacefully." His eyes
became dreamy with longing. "I want peace, quiet
and a home someday...with you."

"Oh David, I understand about the business. I'm
sure whatever it is you're good at it and I won't be
asking questions. I just want to be with you,
wherever you are in this world! I want to share our
love and our future! And children, we might have
children. Do you want kids?"

For an instant David felt regret that he'd had a
vasectomy back in his 20s; but in those years, he
was so damn wild he couldn't stand the idea of
casual sex creating a child. Now...he would have
loved to have a child with Lori _ but decided it was
something he couldn't discuss with her yet. Instead,
he ignored her question, spun her around and kissed
her deeply. Then smiling widely, he said, "Lady, pack
your bags! We're going to get married in Louisiana!"

"Louisiana?"

David released her and walked to the door. "Oh yes
honey, I have friends who will make us welcome,
provide a wedding. So sugar, pack your bags and be
ready to leave in thirty minutes."

Lori ran to him, hugged him tightly and their lips met
in a passionate kiss. 

He pulled away with a groan. "Pack those bags
honey...we have to hurry on down to Louisiana."

And with a wicked gleam in his eyes he opened the
door and disappeared into the brilliant sunlight
outside.

*  *  *  * 

Before noon they had piled their luggage in the
Cadillac and were heading down the highway to
Louisiana. Music blasted through the car and David
gazed out at the long road ahead, singing along with
Cornelius Brothers and Sister Rose's "Too Late To
Turn Back Now" --

My mama told me, she said, "Boy, please beware. 
There's this thing called love and it's everywhere." 
She tells me, "It can break your heart and leave you
in misery" 
Ever since I met this little woman, 
I feel it's happening to me, and I'm tellin' you 
It's too late to turn back now. 
I believe, I believe, I believe I'm fallin' in love 
Oh, it's too late to turn back now. 
I believe, I believe, I believe I'm falling in love. 

Lori was curled up on the seat, leaning against him.
Cool drifts from the air conditioner flowed around
them and made mockery of the heat waves rising
off the pavement. Tar was melting on the blacktop
highway, a squishing sound underneath their wheels
as the car sailed along. The roadsides had occasional
stranded cars, hoods raised and boiling steam
pouring out. 

Finally taking Interstate 65 south, David said,
"Honey, there's hardly any hills between here and
Louisiana, just lots of flat land and interstate.
Anyway," he glanced down at Lori, brushing his lips
against her soft hair, "I'm going to make it a record
fast trip." 

The afternoon wore on and they stopped once in a
small town for hamburgers. It was a quaint little
town and they both felt the overpowering need to
belong; Lori had to stifle her homesickness. Her
eyes misted with tears when she remembered her
folks. 

David saw her tears and asked, "Sugar, is it that
airline position? You're not sorry you missed out on
that are you? I can still turn around and take you
back, let you try..."

"No, no..." Lori interrupted, "it's not that David. I
didn't want it, I told you that." She looked out at
the peaceful town -- small shops lining the street,
busy people, the friendly smiles all around her, and
she felt a tear fall across her cheek. "It's just
that....well," her voice was wistful, soft, "the people
here seem so nice, the town so peaceful....makes me
think of the Cove."

David wiped the tear from her cheek. "Sweetie, I
know you miss home and even I feel a funny ache
for home in this little spot." He stared out on the
street, the melancholy haunting his eyes. "Once I
thought I could find this kind of place, this peace,
this...this...oh, I don't know what you call it. Just this
feeling of 'belonging.' I searched for it always, in
lots of faces and places. Just never found it, I
don't guess." 

He turned to look into Lori's eyes. "Not till I found
you did I know how good belonging could really
feel." He tenderly lifted her chin and leaned close
for a soft kiss. "Someday we'll have this kind of life
sugar, just takes a little time." And he stood slowly,
nudging her arm, and they left the cafe reluctantly.

Back on the road David had to fight his growing
desire. With Lori sitting so close, holding his hand,
pressing near, his thoughts wandered to the night
ahead, when he could hold her in his arms and make
love to her. 

For distraction, he lit a cigarette and Lori moved
away. She smiled coyly at him and asked, "David
Keller, you're not afraid of me, are you?"

David chuckled. "I'm afraid all right...but not of
you...of myself." 

Miles rolled past. The sun fell lower and lower, the
sky becoming a radiant golden glow as the sun sank
nearer the horizon. Lori fell asleep with her head
resting against David and slept two hours. The
farmland of Alabama flowed past and soon they had
bypassed Mobile. Each mile brought them nearer to
Interstate 10 which bordered the coast of
Mississippi. David smoked and watched the green
signs indicating well-known and familiar towns from
his past: Pascagoula, Biloxi, Gulf Port, all areas he'd
once used as hunting territory. He grinned as the
memories danced through his mind. Yes, the South
was a productive place for business, his business
anyway.

When the afternoon was beginning to dim into
twilight Lori sat up and rubbed her eyes sleepily.
"Where are we now David?" She looked out at the
lush foliage and moss-draped cypress trees lining
the highway, then turned to David, her eyes curious.

He smiled enigmatically. "Lori, we're getting married
within the next hour."

"But...how, where?" Lori looked at the isolated
landscape. "There's not a house in sight, looks
deserted on this road."

With the blue twilight settling over the cypress trees
and darkness rapidly closing in, the highway did look
isolated. Lori saw shadowy shapes of telephone poles
and a ribbon of straight blacktop highway. Not a
single house or dwelling broke the thickly grown
vegetation.

David took Lori's hand. "Honey, I've been in this
part of the country lots of times, have a few
friends. But, what we need is a justice of the peace.
I know a man, Judge Peterson -- used to be a Judge
anyway -- and he marries people in his home. His
house is just a little ways ahead."

Lori tried to see David's face in the dimming light.
He was smiling his reassurance and she immediately
felt relief. "I was thinking though, won't we need a
blood test before we can get married?"

David chuckled. "I've known Judge Peterson lots of
years, did him a big favor once." He paused in
reflection and then continued, "Don't worry about a
blood test, he'll marry us." He pulled Lori closer to
his side. "Besides, who could refuse us? Anyone
could see we're in love."

Lori smiled, then asked, "Where are we anyway?
Still in Mississippi or already in Louisiana?"

"We're about fifty miles from Slidell, that's right
outside New Orleans. This is a little spot near Pearl
River, a secluded private area, sort of like the Cove.
Not many folks live back here on the river but the
Judge wanted his retirement here. Nice and quiet,
lots of good fishing."

David slowed and flicked on the blinker. They turned
onto a narrow winding gravel road, a private drive
leading through profusely flourishing vegetation and
Lori saw an array of tropical plants and
trees...palms, willows were tangled with wild
honeysuckle vines, all barely visible in the half-light
of evening shadows.

When the headlights raked across the huge two-
story mansion, Lori exclaimed, "Why didn't you tell
me the Judge was rich?" 

The estate was a three-story ante-bellum mansion -
- four white Doric columns framed the many
windows and banisters. Black wrought-iron railings
trimmed the features, and flowerboxes were
situated beneath each window, full of colorful
blooms. 

Lori glanced down at her faded jeans. "Oh David, I
can't get married in this...at least you have on nice
clothes today." 

David pulled the car into the circular drive and
stopped. "Don't panic honey, I'm sure you can go
upstairs and sort through some of your clothes in
the suitcase and find a dress. Besides, you're
beautiful in anything you wear." 

Lori glanced out at the mansion. The windows were
all lit from inside and the mellow glow created a
warm, inviting feeling. A dangling lantern-shaped
light suspended from the porch ceiling suddenly
flashed on. Light flooded the porch and revealed an
assortment of wicker chairs, potted plants, and
straw rugs scattered across the floor. An ornately
carved oak door opened and a man stepped out on
the porch, looking toward the Cadillac.

"That's the Judge, all right. Just look at that bald
head shining!" David laughed and opened the car
door. 

Lori felt shy, afraid of meeting these people.
Obviously they were friends of David and she
wanted them to like her, but they were rich and
she'd never known such people. 

Nervously she watched as David rounded the car
and waved a hand to the Judge. He opened her door
and took her hand. "Come on sweetie, these people
will love you, don't worry! Just be yourself."

She walked with him up the narrow sidewalk
bordered by lavender hyacinths; the yard was filled
with rich, thick summer-sweet fragrance and a
nearby magnolia tree had shed white delicate petals
on the lawn. Her hand reached for David's and they
stepped onto the porch.

The Judge was a rather short stocky man -- balding
head, warm blue eyes framed with wire spectacles
and a friendly smile. He immediately recognized
David and began to chuckle as he reached out his
hand. 

Shaking hands David said, "Long time, no see,
Judge."

"Well son, it has been a long time. Don't think
there's much use in asking where you been though,
huh?"

David shook his head. "No sir, guess you know all
about where I've been the past years. But, that's
not the reason for my visit." He turned to Lori. "This
is Lori, and we want you to do us a big favor -- we
want you to marry us."

The Judge rubbed his head and a frown creased his
brow. He adjusted his spectacles and studied Lori.
"Well now, marriage?"

He took a step closer, still curiously studying Lori,
and then turned to David. "Son, this is a pretty little
woman but...unless I miss my guess she's very young,
maybe too young." He turned to Lori, asking, "How
old are you honey?"

Lori had always been aware others thought she was
younger than her age, so she spoke up, "I'm twenty."

David put a hand on her arm supportively. "Listen
Judge, just for your information, Lori is not too
young to know what she wants. I may be forty, lots
older than her, but we both know how we feel." 

David began shifting from foot to foot, then
abruptly stopped and pointed a thin finger at the
Judge. "Besides, you owe me, remember?"

The Judge's face went white. "Yes, so I do. Okay,
no questions. Come on inside and we'll get Martha to
help us with the details."

"I'll get Lori's suitcase from the car and be right
with you." David strode off toward the Cadillac.

The Judge took Lori's arm. "You seem scared of me.
I don't look that bad, do I?" 

He laughed and propelled her through the wide door
into the immense foyer. A brilliantly lit chandelier
hung from the ceiling and sparkles glittered over the
spiral staircase winding up to the second floor. Plush
blue carpet covered the floor and stairs. Hardwood
gleamed from the polished balustrade and the walls
were subd
spaced at intervals. 

Lori stood absolutely motionless, staring. 

The Judge remarked, "I see you like our little
home..." and his chuckle deepened.

David hurried to Lori's side and plunked down the
suitcase. "What next Judge? Lori needs to change,
dress for the wedding, can you arrange that?"

A tall slender lady appeared at the top of the stairs.
She came down each step slowly and looked at
David and Lori. "Oh my, I thought I heard a car pull
into the drive, who's this?" 

She had reached the bottom stair and walked over
near the Judge. Her hair was graying and she was
also older, probably close to sixty. 

The Judge coughed nervously, then said, "This is
David Keller, guess you could call him a former
associate." He lifted his brow wryly and then looked
at Lori. "David and this little lady want me to marry
them." 

He held up his hand when the woman opened her
mouth to protest. "Now Martha, I know I haven't
married anyone in a long time but this is a favor for
David. I think we can make it special for them, don't
you?"

The woman took Lori's hand. "So you're going to
marry this man." She looked at David skeptically.
"Do you love him?"

Lori burst out proudly, "Oh yes, very much!" The
dreamy look of love in her eyes was impossible to
mistake as she turned to stare at David.

The woman picked up the suitcase. "Well, let's go
upstairs and let you change clothes. By the way, my
name's Martha."

Lori glanced back at David, and then joined Martha.
"My name is Lori, Lori Lei Sanders and I'm from a
Cove way back in the hills of Tennessee..."

"Right this way David," the Judge urged, heading
down the hallway to a door. He stopped, saying, "I
never thought I'd see you alive again, after that last
caper."

The massive door swung open and David stepped into
a large study. Two walls had books floor-to-ceiling.
An antique roll-top desk was in one corner, a
desklamp the only light. Thick bulky drapes were
drawn tightly closed, and a fireplace was nearby.

The Judge walked to the desk, pulled out his chair
and sat down with a sigh. Gesturing toward an empty
armchair he invited David to have a seat.

They were silent a few moments. Finally the Judge
leaned forward, removed his spectacles and
rummaged in his desk drawer. He withdrew a cigar
and reached for a lighter. "How about a cigar David,
care for one?"

David patted his shirt pocket. "No thanks Judge.
Still have my trusty Camel's right here." He pulled
out the pack and tapped out a cigarette.

The Judge lit his cigar, put on his spectacles,
adjusted them carefully and leaned back in his chair.
Staring curiously at David, he said, "Always did like
those Camels, didn't you son?"

"Sure do Judge, the one brand you can nearly
always get inside the joint."

"How long you been free David?"

"Not long this time, about a month."

The Judge dropped his eyes from David. "How much
time did you pull in the Federal Prison on this last
conviction?"

David said bitterly, "Ten long years Judge."

"My God son, why didn't you get out of that
business years ago? I told you I'd help, after what
you did for me, saving Joe from those s.o.bs."

"I know, I know Judge. I did save Joe's life and at
least he's not in the business, he's living a good,
clean life. And I know you're grateful for your
boy's life but," he hung his head and his voice turned
sad, "I think maybe sometimes its too late for me to
turn back, too late to have the peace I always
craved. I never could understand why I just kept on
with the business -- even when I didn't need money.
But, it's like there's something inside me that flares
up and sends me straight into another job." 

He shook his head in frustration. "You figure it
Judge. That young woman, sweet, oh so sweet and
innocent -- a treasure! She loves me. And damn!" He
paused, took a drag on his cigarette and looked into
the Judge's eyes. "Damnit Judge...hell, I love her
too."

Hope flickered in the Judge's eyes. 

David raised his hand. "Now, don't get the wrong
idea -- I love her and God knows she's the only
woman I've ever gotten close to but..." he stood and
walked over to the drapes, pulling them apart,
looking outside. "Judge, no matter how I feel about
her I don't know if I can change my ways." He
stared out into the night feeling certain doom out
there somewhere, waiting silently.

"And what about her, son? What about Lori?" 

The Judge's voice brought David back to his chair.
Dropping down he slumped wearily forward. "Judge,
that's a hell of a question, and one I can't answer. I
fought it, fought my feelings for her. And believe
me, I never want to hurt her." 

He raised his tortured eyes to the Judge. "I think
it'd kill me to hurt her, yet I can't resist the love I
feel for her." He shook his head and took another
deep drag on the Camel. "I want to maybe try and
work our way back to the Cove, where she's from in
Tennessee, and just sneak away from my past. Live
peacefully and all with Lori." 

He paused and rubbed his forehead with agitation.
"If only I can change before it's too late." He
stubbed out the cigarette in an ashtray.

The Judge stood and walked to David's side, placed
a hand on his shoulder. "Son, no one knows any
better than me how kind you can be, but that rage is
going to ruin you. You are striking back at childhood
poverty. Just try to put it behind you." He patted
David's shoulder. "Lori's a sweet little lady, I'd hate
to see her destroyed."

David stood abruptly and paced around the room.
He reflected, "Well Judge, a man never can tell
what's down the road. Right now I'd like to go
freshen up a bit myself, if you don't mind."

"Sure David, right this way." And the Judge walked
him to the door.

*  *  *  *

Upstairs, in a beautifully decorated bedroom, Lori
was prowling through her suitcase. With each dress
that she withdrew and tossed on the bed, a loud sigh
escaped her. 

Martha stood patiently in a corner looking out the
window. She turned to Lori and watched the dresses
piling up. "Lori honey, surely one of those dresses is
suitable?" 

She walked over to the bed and began to look
through the pastel dresses. They were simple and
modest dresses, all the results of Ma's sewing
talent.

In frustration Lori swung around to face Martha.
"Oh! You'd think I'd have one fancy dress! I just
want something special for tonight!" Her eyes
turned dreamy. "My wedding night...I can't believe
it!" 

Martha went to the large double sliding doors of a
closet. She eased open the panels and stepped into
the dressing room area, clicking on a light switch,
and looking at the many dresses still hanging neatly
under plastic. Casually she pulled a wispy light pink
dress from the rack. "Lori, come here honey, I have
an idea."

Lori hurried to the closet and stepped into the
dressing area. Her eyes widened at the many clothes
and shoes, purses and accessories placed so orderly
in the closet. Then she saw the dress Martha was
holding. Her eyes brightened and a hesitant smile
lifted the corners of her mouth as she touched the
plastic.

"Go ahead, here, let's take the plastic off and get a
better look," Martha urged gently. 

They struggled to unzip the plastic bag and the
sheer pink silky dress fell out as Lori gasped and
touched the folds reverently. "Oh Martha, it looks
just like cotton candy."

Martha laughed happily. "Exactly! And don't you
think it appropriate for a wedding dress?"

Lori felt tears come to her eyes. "But, I couldn't
wear this. I mean, um, could I?"

"Why not? It was my daughter's and she wouldn't
mind you wearing it." Martha bent to inspect the
dress.

"Um, where is your daughter now?"

"Away, she lives in California. These were her
clothes when she lived here. And she still wears
some of these when she comes home for a visit. But
right now, well, this one is all yours for the night."

"Oh Martha, it's sooooo beautiful! David will die
when he sees me in this!" 

Martha held the dress to Lori, judging for a fit. "It
looks just perfect Lori. Really, I thought you and
Helen were about the same size."

"I can't thank you enough Martha, you're making
this the best night of my life!"

Martha smiled at Lori's enthusiasm and took the
long pink dress off the brocade hanger. "Here
honey, take this. You should be stunning in a long
gown. Your silky blond hair and delicate complexion
will be enhanced by the texture and color of this
dress."

Lori turned toward the bed to collect her personal
items -- cosmetics, brush, and lingerie. 

Martha stood at the door. "Oh, I forgot something."
She walked back to the closet and switched the light
on again. "Come here, see which pair of these shoes
you prefer? All kinds here, heels of any color."
Martha picked up a pair of shoes. "How about these
white pumps...dainty aren't they?" She held up tiny
spiked heels in front of Lori.

"Oh let me try them on! I hope they fit me!" Lori
raced to a nearby chair and slipped off her
sneakers. Struggling, she managed to get the heels
on. Then she stood on wobbly feet to look in the
mirror. "The shoes fit, just barely. I love them! Sort
of make me look taller and I'm glad. Everyone
always