By Mustang Patty
What is the definition of a love story? Do all love stories have to include a love that endures forever? Is there a time requirement for something to be considered a love story? Or is love the common theme that unites relationships whether they be short lived or go on for all time?
This love story, if that's how one would define it, endures in its own way over several decades. The two people are entwined by a product of their love -- a child. Though neither one of them raised this little boy, he is the common thread in both of their stories.
Jenny, our heroine, falls madly in love. She fantasizes about a life-long commitment from the very start. Ron, perhaps wrongly carrying the role of the antagonist, is simply entranced by a lovely girl with beautiful eyes and a winning smile.
After reading this work, it is up to you to determine if this was love, or merely lust. Are there lessons to be learned? What could have been different for the story to end on a happier note?
Thank you for reading and your willingness to come along for the ride.
~patty~
Author Notes |
thanks to David Ruhl for the use of 'Hearts on Ice' to enhance the story.
I wrote this story based on a friend's recollections. I've known her for over thirty years and I was there at the beginning. Through the magic of the internet and free long distance, I've been able to hear the whole story. With her permission, I've developed a story line based on what happened between her and her lover. The names have been changed to protect the innocent and the guilty. |
By Mustang Patty
So wonderfully sweet; the beginning,
The moonlight walks and soft pillow talks,
Ecstasy in each other's arms,
Powerful pull between them,
There's never enough time,
Longing for a touch,
Just filling time
Till they meet
again
Love
Hate
Swearing
To never
Darken his door
Never speak his name
Escape; go far away
Leave the memories of love
Flee the temptation of his voice
Find a new life, a shiny new love.
Bury the pain; heal the wound, forget him
Author Notes |
thank you David Ruhl for the use of your artwork, 'Heart on Ice'
For this poem, I chose to create a Double Reversed Etheree The poetry form, Etheree, consists of 10 lines of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 syllables. Etheree can also be reversed and written 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. Get creative and write an Etheree with more than one verse, but follow suit with an inverted syllable count. Reversed Etheree: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 Double Etheree: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 ...Triple Etheree, Quadruple Etheree, and so on! |
By Mustang Patty
Their love story started out so sweet. They both worked in the shipyard and their paths crossed every morning. For several days, he trailed behind her and just watched the way she walked. She was a wonderful sight.
It was rare to see the same person two days in a row. The shipyard was so large and employed over twelve thousand, parking was limited, and it was difficult to park in the same place every day. Most people never used the same gate on consecutive days. Jenny just happened to find a spot far enough away from the gate that she didn't have to compete for it each morning. She enjoyed the walk, and now, she had his smiling face to look forward to each day.
One day, she parked her car later than usual, and she came to the corner of Vine and First Street just as he was crossing the street. Their eyes met and both hearts skipped a beat. Neither one of them shy, they started a conversation.
"Hi. Don't I know you from somewhere?"
She chuckled and replied, "We see one another on the bus at lunchtime occasionally, but I'm afraid I don't know your name."
Sticking out his hand, "I'm Ron Grimley, and you?"
"I'm Jenny Austin. Pleased to meet'cha."
"I work in the Carpentry shop. What do you do?"
"I work in Supply. I'm in charge of training everyone on the new computer systems."
"Wow! That's a big job. You look smart. I bet you have a college degree and everything."
She blushed at his compliment and boldness. "Well, I do, in fact, but your job sounds much more fascinating. Are you a journeyman carpenter?"
"Yeah, and I do most of the woodwork on the ships. I make the fancy stuff for the captain's quarters."
With admiration in her eyes, she looked into his deep blue eyes. "Wow. You must be pretty good at what you do, huh?"
"Yeah, I guess so."
They continued their small talk as they walked through the gate of the shipyard. When they came to her building, they parted ways.
"See ya tomorrow!" they both spoke in unison. Laughing, Jenny entered her building with a broad smile across her face.
A few days later, he had to run to catch up to her. "Jenny! I want to show you something."
She turned to wait for him, and was surprised to see he was holding a plaque in his hand. "I made something for you at work the other day. I was working with the staple gun and when the staples got stuck, I noticed they made some interesting shapes. So, I put this together."
Looking at the plaque, she could see he had put the twisted staples in the order of the alphabet. It was a tiny bit hard to make out some of the letters, but they were all there. "Wow…this is really cool."
"I want you to have it." He handed her the plaque which was stained and sanded with each staple glued carefully. It was offered in the way a small boy gave something to the first girl he knew.
"Thank you, Ron. But, I don't have anything to give you, and my work doesn't really allow me to make anything."
"Yeah, but you could go out with me."
She dropped her head, and raised it slowly. Her deep brown eyes were hooded by the length of her lashes. A slow smile came to her lips, "I never thought you'd ask."
to be continued...
Author Notes |
thank you Susan F.M.T for the lovely picture of a shipyard. It fit this story well.
I wrote this story based on a friend's recollections. I've known her for over thirty years and I was there at the beginning. Through the magic of the internet and free long distance, I've been able to hear the whole story. With her permission, I've developed a story line based on what happened between her and her lover. The names have been changed to protect the innocent and the guilty. |
By Mustang Patty
Their first date was nothing short of magical. The whole evening was well planned and Ron treated Jenny with every respect. Still, she was feeling uneasy. During the week leading up to their date, she had put her ear to the ground of the shipyard gossip. Word on the street was that Ron was a loner, girl chaser, and stand-offish.
Jenny had a difficult time matching her research with the man sitting across from her. He was telling her about his latest project on one of the ships. He took a napkin and sketched the delicate lines of the cabinet he was building and described the wood in loving terms. She couldn't help but smile at his excitement over the project.
Candlelight from around the room bounced with the flickering on the walls. Jenny was entranced with the beauty of the dining room. The food was delicious and Ron had ordered just the right wine to go with the steaks. She sipped the soothing grape, and contemplated the man in front of her. She now knew he owned several of the little houses on his block, and he rented them out. Additionally, he owned a small building where he housed his wood working tools. He had done quite well for himself since he started working at the shipyard straight out of high school.
"Would you like to go for a walk after dinner?"
Breaking from her deep thoughts and contemplation, Jenny answered, "That would be lovely."
He paid the check and reached for her hand. They walked out into the starlit night. The breeze from the sound was gently blowing and the air felt wonderful. The restaurant was on the edge of the water, and their footsteps took them down the dock. Across the way were the lights of the shipyard. It dominated the waterfront, and it seemed that you really couldn't get away from it. It did look pretty from the Port Orchard side.
Pushing aside her doubts, Jenny looked up at the tall and lanky man at her side. The cologne he used was wonderful, and she loved to watch his hands. Right now, her eyes were staring at his lips and wondering when or if he would try to kiss her.
Turned out, she didn't have to wait long. He was staring at her, too. When their eyes met, his wandered down to her lips, and he leaned in. The kiss was long, deep, and very exciting. His kisses were like a sweet drug; she was helplessly hooked and totally taken to another plane. She gripped the back of his neck to keep him from stopping the kiss, and they remained on the dock for quite some time.
When they came up for air, he whispered in her ear, "Do you want to go back to my place?"
She could only nod. Her knees were weak and she felt like she was no longer in charge of herself. She only knew she wanted to be closer to him. He was the most beautiful and exciting man she'd ever known. She wanted him with her entire being.
On the drive back to his house, she allowed her thoughts to run on a path to love. She envisioned how they would date for a very short time. They would run off to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, to be married and they would move into a beautiful house. He would tell her to stop working once their first child was born. They would be happy forever.
Laughing at herself, she waited for him to open her car door. She looked at his tasteful little house and felt overwhelmed by his ability to get things done. He was only three years older than she, and he had already accomplished so much. He really was wonderful. It would be great to spend a life with someone this stable and steady.
They went into his house, and the love affair of her life began.
to be continued...
Author Notes |
picture taken by the author of a house similar to Ron's according to Jenny.
I wrote this story based on a friend's recollections. I've known her for over thirty years and I was there at the beginning. Through the magic of the internet and free long distance, I've been able to hear the whole story. With her permission, I've developed a story line based on what happened between her and her lover. The names have been changed to protect the innocent and the guilty. |
By Mustang Patty
The Carpentry shop in the shipyard was on one side of the grounds and the building housing the supply department was on the other. Ron would catch the Shipyard Shuttle at the beginning of his lunchtime and the bus would stop by Jenny's building on the way to the cafeteria. The two lovebirds would greet one another with a kiss and hold hands while they were riding.
Jenny made lunch for them every day and they only went to the cafeteria for cold drinks. Their chatter was overheard by the eavesdropping gossips and their story was told everywhere. From the drydocks to the shops, anyone who knew them knew they were dating. They were such a handsome couple, it seemed everyone knew them or wanted to. Their romance was a big deal.
In the days before cell phones, if lovers wanted to chat on company phones, there needed to be a cover story.
"Code 513, Jenny speaking. How can I help you?"
"I, uh, need some parts for the project I'm working on. Can you help me with that?"
Recognizing Ron's voice, Jenny decided to play along. "What kind of parts do you need?"
"Well, I need some soft lips and a deliciously curved…"
"Sir, this is a business line!" They both laughed and he ended their call, "Just wanted to hear your voice. See ya tonight."
She hung up the phone and immediately felt several pairs of eyes on her. There were no cubicles in their office; just a bunch of desks pushed together in the warehouse. Her curious co-workers, women all older than her, were waiting for some sort of explanation.
"He just wanted to hear my voice, guys. No biggie. I think he just pines away for me all day." She said the last while batting her lashes and the women all started giggling.
"Do you think this is serious, Jenny? Everyone says he is a bit of a playboy. No one has seen him date any one girl for too long."
Another chimed in, "We wouldn't want to see you get hurt, dear. You just seem so over the moon about him. Of course, he is handsome, and I imagine he'd be quite the catch, but do you think YOU could hold onto him?"
Inwardly, Jenny was cursing her luck to be working in a place where there were only women. It seemed that most women reveled in the misfortune of others. These old biddies really couldn't stand the notion of anyone being happy. Why couldn't they just let her be?
"I don't know if I can hold him. I do know I'm going to enjoy every minute of the time we have together. Right now, I'm going to get back to work." She hoped this would get the ladies' minds back on their own work and off her business.
Finally, the work day was over. As she stood in line to punch out, her thoughts turned to the evening ahead. It was their six-month anniversary. She had a wonderful meal planned. She just needed to stop by her house, change clothes and pick up the groceries. Ron's kitchen was much more fun to cook in.
Freshly showered, grocery bags in hand, she headed out the door. Her phone started ringing as she was locking the door, but she ignored it. She was already running late.
As she pulled up to Ron's house, she was surprised to see a small truck in the driveway. Her brow was creased with curiosity as she let herself in. She was totally unprepared to see another woman sitting on the couch. She was holding a glass of wine and talking to Ron as if they were good, good friends.
Ron stood up hurriedly and looked like a rat in a trap. He started to stammer, "I tried to call you. I, um…this is Veronica. She's an, uh, old friend."
"Oh, I'm much more than an old friend, aren't I Ron? I mean we've always been much more than friends," Veronica purred from the couch.
Jenny was flabbergasted. Without thinking too much, "Oh, I see you have company. I'll just go then." She pulled the door closed behind her. She started walking down the sidewalk, sure that Ron would come after her.
She got all the way to the car and he hadn't come. Folding herself into the driver's seat, she felt as though she'd been pulled through a sieve. Her throat was dry and she could barely breathe. Turning the key in the ignition, she headed towards home. She was determined to drive right out of his life.
to be continued...
Author Notes |
photo taken by the author on a recent zoo visit. Duck romances are fun to watch.
I wrote this story based on a friend's recollections. I've known her for over thirty years and I was there at the beginning. Through the magic of the internet and free long distance, I've been able to hear the whole story. With her permission, I've developed a story line based on what happened between her and her lover. The names have been changed to protect the innocent and the guilty. |
By Mustang Patty
Sitting at her unusually messy desk, Jenny tried to keep her mind on her work. She couldn't stop thinking about the loss of love. She hurt more than she ever had after a break-up. Missing him on a constant basis, her usual tidy life was turned upside down. Her mood complimented the grey walls of the warehouse and her pallor wasn't much brighter.
Interestingly, Ron continued to call. Fresh flowers were delivered to her every few days at work. Not bearing to be able to throw them away, she was forced to look at them. While her days were uncomfortable, the nights were worse. She longed for his kisses and the feel of his hands on her body.
After a few weeks, the flowers stopped coming. There were no longer any messages on the machine at home. He finally got the message that she was done. Conflicted with the emotions of relief and alarm, Jenny continued to mourn the loss. She had given her whole heart to him.
Seeing the bags under her eyes, the women in the office were somewhat concerned. After telling her, "I told you so," for the first few days, they realized she was truly hurting, and they regretted giving her such a hard time.
"Hey, Jenny. Why don't we all go to lunch?" one woman suggested.
Everyone started to chime in and plans were made to head down to the cafeteria together. Since the shipyard closed for lunchtime, they could all leave together for the allotted forty-two minutes. Jenny felt a bit light-hearted for the first time in a while.
Stepping out into the sun, Jenny took a breath of fresh air. Truly thankful for the women she worked with for the first time in almost ever, she rejoiced in their offer of friendship. Looking over at Patty, her constant friend, they shared a secret smile. Neither of them had a great deal of love for the other women in the office, but they acknowledged everyone was really trying.
The bus was crowded and the women weren't all able to get seats together. They still managed to carry on a conversation over the heads of the other passengers.
"Oh, this really is lovely. Why don't we do this more often?"
"Because you're too cheap to go out to lunch!" This comment was met by raucous laughter and the mood was set for the outing.
Jenny's stomach tightened as they walked into the cafeteria. She lost track of her companions' conversation as her eyes settled on Ron. It was the first time they'd seen each other in weeks.
He was sitting by himself, and his eyes met hers from across the room. He raised his eyebrows questioning if she would come and talk, but she averted her eyes. Swirling emotions spun through her head and she suddenly felt dizzy. Why did he have to be here now?
"Uh, guys. I, uh, need to get out of here. I think I'm going to be sick."
The women turned to look at Jenny's pale face and quickly turned around to head outside. They barely made it before Jenny vomited just outside the door. Napkins and tissues were pushed towards her and one of the women rushed back to the cafeteria to get her some cold water.
Patty, kneeled beside her. "Are you okay? Do you think you need to go home?"
"No, I actually feel better now that I've puked."
Both women suddenly looked at one another as a horrible idea popped into both their heads.
"You don't think you might be…"
"No. It's totally out of the question. I was taking care of things."
The subject was dropped and they didn't talk about it…for now.
to be continued...
Author Notes |
thank you Susan F.M.T. for the use of your photo, ILV Granuaile.
I wrote this story based on a friend's recollections. I've known her for over thirty years and I was there at the beginning. Through the magic of the internet and free long distance, I've could hear the whole story. With her permission, I've developed a story line based on what happened between her and her lover. The names have been changed to protect the innocent and the guilty. |
By Mustang Patty
From the end of the last chapter;
"No, I actually feel better now that I've puked," Jenny told Patty.
Both women suddenly looked at one another as a horrible idea popped into both their heads.
"You don't think you might be…"
"No! It's totally out of the question. I was taking care of things…"
The subject was dropped and they didn't talk about it…for now.
The edge of the dock was covered with droppings from pigeons and gulls. A cool breeze blew off the water, and voices of the sailors onboard the ships could be heard in the distance. The sun was continuing its daily descent, and though the sunset hadn't started yet, the wispy clouds on the horizon hinted at its beauty.
Ron sat on the weathered bench and reviewed the events of the day. Somehow, things were worse than yesterday. He felt some hope then. After seeing her in the cafeteria and watching her leave as soon as they made eye contact, he was sure it was over.
He had never been in a serious relationship. Oh, there were girls and women before. They never stayed around for long, and he didn't care. His life was fine just the way it was; until he met Jenny. She brought so much into his life. For the first time in years, he counted on someone else. Wanting to hear about her day, and he loved telling her about his, their daily conversations were full and interesting. She genuinely cared about his projects at home and at work. She was special; a treasure.
Their relationship was far different than anything he'd ever experienced. For most of the six months they were together, there wasn't any sex. Jenny made it very clear that she wouldn't sleep with him until there was love. She didn't sleep around, and she wouldn't start with him. So, they became good friends. He learned to enjoy picnics, movies, and long conversations about life. He told her things he'd never shared with anyone else. And finally, he told her in a lover's whisper that he knew they had a future; she no longer held back her love and they shared one glorious night.
What did guys do when a woman was mad at them? He had never tried to heal a relationship before. Flowers and candy seemed to work in the movies – or was that only because the situation needed to be wrapped up in one-hundred and twenty minutes? The truth was Ron didn't have a clue about making up with someone. He didn't want to ask any of his friends. They all thought he had everything. He didn't want to admit that this one woman had become the center of his life.
Why did Veronica have to ruin everything? The curse of his half-sister was a complication in his life he didn't share with Jenny or anyone. How do you explain to anyone that your supposedly straight-laced father was a philanderer? Ron's shame about Veronica dated back to the first time he found out about her. She found him. It seemed to delight her that she could make his life so miserable. The shakedown was simple. He gave her money so she wouldn't reveal her identity to his mother.
Veronica must have considered it a bonus that she ruined a relationship. He couldn't run after Jenny that night because he didn't want Veronica to know how important she was. He now knew that was a mistake. Despite the flowers and repeated phone calls, Jenny wouldn't speak to him. He'd never had a chance to explain. It was his stubborn streak that made him stop sending the flowers. He didn't want to waste time trying to call anymore – it was obvious she didn't want to speak to him. Why was she so mad? It wasn't as if she'd walked in on him in bed with someone else.
He had to make her listen. Maybe the problem was the flowers and phone calls didn't allow them to meet face to face. Ron suddenly knew he needed to go to her apartment and talk to her. He could explain and make Jenny listen to reason. He had to get her back. He was hopelessly in love.
Author Notes |
I wrote this story based on a friend's recollections. I've known her for over thirty years and I was there at the beginning of this story. Through the magic of the internet and free long distance, I've could hear the whole story.
With her permission, I've developed a story line based on what happened between her and her lover. The names have been changed to protect the innocent and the guilty. |
By Mustang Patty
From the last chapter:
He [Ron] had to make her listen. Maybe the problem was the flowers and phone calls didn't allow them to meet face to face. Ron suddenly knew he needed to go to her apartment and talk to her. Then, he could explain and make Jenny listen to reason. He had to get her back. Hopelessly in love, he did his best to come up with a plan to talk to her.
While Jenny was furiously cleaning her apartment, music thumped with the heavy bass from her stereo. She simply had to do something to get the image of Ron out of her head. Earlier that day in the cafeteria, he looked like he was actually hurting? Could that even be true? No, he was the one who was obviously lying about his love for her – why else would he have been with that…that woman?
Despite her intention to protect her heart, she had actually slept with him. While it was undoubtedly the best sex she'd ever known, though she didn't have much to compare it with, she felt awful about it now. Did he really think so little of her that just two days after they'd made love, he felt free to wander? How could he have forgotten the words he's said to her that night? Anger ignited and shame colored her cheeks. He had played her for the fool.
Her mind, heart, and body were just sick about it all. She continually felt queasy and her appetite was totally off. The past six weeks had been very dismal.
Thinking that she heard something, Jenny went and turned down the stereo. Yes…there it was--a knock on the door. Wiping her hands on the dust rag, she opened the door. Emotions of surprise and then scorn erupted in her brain.
Author Notes |
thank you to Susan F.M.T for the use of her artwork
I wrote this story based on a friend's recollections. I've known her for over thirty years and I was there at the beginning of this story. Through the magic of the internet and free long distance, I've been able to hear about the whole story. With her permission, I've developed a story line based on what happened between her and her lover. The names have been changed to protect the innocent and the guilty. Cast of Characters; Jenny Austin; a twenty-three-year-old who works in the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard as a Supply Clerk. Ron Grimsley; a twenty-seven-year-old who also works in the Shipyard as a Journeyman Carpenter. Patty; Jenny's best friend |
By Mustang Patty
The story so far…
Jenny and Ron met on their way to work in the shipyard. He worked at one end of the shipyard and she worked in a building closer to the gate they went in together. After flirting and talking for several weeks, Ron finally asked Jenny out.
Their first date was magical, and it was the beginning of a wonderful six months or so of dating. Jenny warned Ron that there wouldn't be any sex until they were in a committed relationship. She remained true to her word. Ron finally told her he loved her and expressed his belief that they had something that would last.
The feelings of elation for Jenny were dispelled the very next day. She arrived at Ron's house, after ignoring her ringing phone as she left the house. When she let herself in, she found Ron sitting with a strange woman. Unbeknown to her, this was Ron' half-sister who had been blackmailing him for years.
She left the house with a broken heart, and Ron didn't follow her. He was at a total loss as to what to do.
The misunderstandings continued and the couple drifted further and further apart.
From the last chapter:
Watching the door close behind the man she had once loved with all her heart absolutely destroyed her. She let the tears begin to flow and emotions ran through her body. As the adrenaline dissolved, she felt herself going limp. She crumpled to the floor and released her sadness, anger, shame, and feelings of loss.
A good cry would usually help, but all Jenny felt was nauseous. Running to the bathroom, she felt everything she'd eaten that day come up and out. Lying on the floor with her head against the cold porcelain of the toilet, she realized it was over.
Sick, tired, and feeling depleted, she did the only thing she could do. She decided to hate him. If she felt that way, she could move on.
Author Notes |
thank you for the wonderful artwork, ILV Granuaile by Susan F. M. T. It is the perfect compliment to this story about love in the shipyard.
Cast of Characters; Jenny Austin - our protagonist. A young woman who works in the shipyard and has fallen in love. Ron Grimsely - A confused young man who isn't really sure how to handle his first time in love. Patty - Jenny's best friend - 'me' |
By Mustang Patty
Author Notes |
Cast of Characters;
Jenny Austin - our protagonist. A young woman who works in the shipyard and has fallen in love. Ron Grimsley - A confused young man who isn't really sure how to handle his first time in love. Patty - Jenny's best friend - 'me' |
By Mustang Patty
Author Notes |
I wrote this story based on a friend's recollections. I've known her for over thirty years and I was there at the beginning. Through the magic of the internet and free long distance, I've been able to hear the whole story.
With her permission, I've developed a story line based on what happened between her and her lover. The names have been changed to protect the innocent and the guilty. |
By Mustang Patty
When her water broke, she was lying on the couch watching TV. She had given up hope of going into labor that day, so she'd ordered a delivery pizza a few hours earlier and ate the whole thing. It wasn't as if she was worried about her figure at the moment.
The pains weren't too bad, and she judged them to be about six minutes apart. She had a bag packed in her bedroom and she waddled to grab it. She didn't feel panicked; she was just glad to be getting it over with. She suddenly realized she would need to get to the hospital, and she wasn't sure how she was getting there.
Her first thought was to call him, but she knew he wouldn't respond the way she wanted. He had made his feelings perfectly clear. It was only two weeks ago that he'd signed his rights away with the lawyer. His part was done and there was little reason to contact him. And so, she picked up the phone and dialed Bill and Rita.
It was a few minutes to ten at night, so there was little wonder when Rita answered the phone in askance. "Hello?"
"Hi. Um, my water just broke and I need to go to the hospital. Would you guys be willing to drive me?"
"Jenny? Oh, Jenny! Of course. I still get to be in the delivery room, right?" Her voice had perked up and was filled with joy.
"Yes. I want you to be there. I'm getting ready right now. See you in a bit." She hung up the phone with a deep sigh. There was so much happiness in Rita's voice, and Jenny knew there would be just pain for her. But this would be a good pain; the price she had to pay to get her life back.
Within fifteen minutes, there was a knock on her door. She made her way to the door and opened it to Bill's delighted face. "Can I help you? Can you make it down the steps? Should I hold your hand?"
Laughing, Jenny thought Bill made the perfect father-to-be. He was babbling and he'd missed a button on his shirt. Hair sticking out in tufts on his head let her know he'd already been in bed when she called. She grasped his hand and they made their way to the car.
Rita was waiting in the running car, and her smile was gleaming in the dark. Her joy was contagious and Jenny found herself returning the smile. She was happy the last miles of this journey would be spent in the company of these people.
The hospital check-in was marred by the attitude of the staff when they heard and understood that the baby was being put up for adoption. It didn't seem to matter to them that the adoptive parents were on hand. They had little regard for women who gave their babies away, and they didn't even try to mask their feelings.
Jenny was thankful to see the nurse she had taken the Lamaze classes from. Nell was aware of the situation and gave Jenny a big hug. She made sure Bill was comfortable in the waiting room, and gave Rita a gown to change into. She helped Jenny change into a gown and get settled in the bed.
The pains seemed to intensify as soon as she lay down on the bed and was attached to all the monitors. It was a little after midnight when Nell checked her progress, and told her if she wanted to have the epidural, they would need to do it soon. Jenny figured she could go the natural child birth path if and when she had a baby under better circumstances. She instructed Nell she would like the procedure, and she braced herself for the large needle she knew would be coming her way. Her understanding was that they would stick it in her back, so at least she wouldn't have to see it.
After the anesthesiologist came in and gave her the epidural, there was nothing left to do but wait. As the procedure took effect, Jenny and Rita watched the meter showing the contractions go up and down without Jenny feeling much of anything. Jenny allowed herself to relax as best she could. They were told in the class that fighting the process would only make it go slower.
In between the nurses coming in to check on her progress, Rita and Jenny talked. All through the long night, they talked about many things. Jenny did her best to tell Rita all she could about her, and as much as she knew about the father, Ron. Jenny shared how important it was to her that the baby be taught about God and was assured by Rita that they would honor this wish.
The sun was beginning to peek through the blinds when the labor intensified. The monitor was showing constant activity, and Jenny felt a great deal of pressure. Nell came and did a check and let the women know it was 'just about time.' She said she would call the doctor.
Jenny smiled up at Rita, " Well, we're almost there. It won't be much longer now."
"Thank you. Thank you for all of this. I will never be able to thank you enough."
Jenny smiled back at the weeping woman. Her thanks would be in no longer carrying this burden alone. She wasn't going to be pregnant in just a few more minutes. She would no longer be 'that pregnant girl." No one would be judging her at work anymore. There wouldn't be pointing and snickering behind her back. It was almost over.
After laboring all night, it took only thirty minutes of pushing, and the baby made its way into the world. Both Rita and Jenny held their breath as the baby's sex was revealed. Rita was so pleased to have a baby boy, and Jenny was merely relieved it wasn't a girl. She didn't think she could hand over a daughter to someone else.
After the nurses cleaned the little boy, Nell brought the wrapped bundle over to the bed. "Do you want to hold him?" she asked Jenny.
"No," Jenny smiled through her tears, "give him to his mother."
to be continued...
Author Notes |
I wrote this story based on a friend's recollections. I've known her for over thirty years and I was there at the beginning. Through the magic of the internet and free long distance, I've been able to hear the whole story.
With her permission, I've developed a story line based on what happened between her and her lover. The names have been changed to protect the innocent and the guilty. Epidural; Epidural anesthesia is the most popular method of pain relief during labor. Women request an epidural by name more than any other method of pain relief. More than 50% of women giving birth at hospitals use epidural anesthesia. (American pregnancy.org) |
By Mustang Patty
Ron was going about his usual business. He made coffee, he showered, dressed and got ready to go and do some work out in his workshop. Keeping it simple, he wasn't married and only had himself to worry about. Oh, there was a goofy, furry pal named Max, but the dog only needed love, food, and water.
At the age of forty-five, he wondered sometimes if his choices had caused him to miss out. Would it be better to have someone to share life with? What about the things and property he had? Who would be there to take them when his time came? He immediately pushed that thought out of his head. He was way too young to have those kinds of worries.
Just as he was getting ready to go outside to his shop, he heard the phone ring. He was going to ignore it as usual. He used his answering machine to screen his calls. There just weren't many people he felt like talking to, and he absolutely hated telephone solicitors.
A familiar voice came through the tinny speaker of the machine. Was it…? Could it be her?
"Ron, this is Jenny. The baby I put up for adoption just called me. He wants to meet with me. He wants to know why." Ron hadn't heard that voice since 1983. Was she talking about the baby he fathered? The timing was right.
He felt like he had been stabbed in the gut. He ran to the phone to pick up before she hung up.
"Jenny? Is that really you? You told me it was a closed adoption. How does he even know who we are?"
"Hello to you, too. I guess when he turned eighteen, he could get information. I filled out a birth certificate in the hospital. They said I had to give him a name before I handed him over to the foster parents."
"Did you put down my name for 'father?'" He held his breath as he waited for her answer.
"Yes, I put down your name. My only other choice was to put 'unknown,' and I didn't want to look like some sort of a slut."
"What do you think he really wants?" Ron was already bracing himself to lose some of his wealth.
"I don’t know. He just called me and said he wanted to meet me. He asked if I would have a cup of coffee with him at Starbucks. I'm so surprised he's willing to come to me."
"How did he know where you are? Do you think he knows where I live, too?" Ron spoke with fear in his voice.
"Ron, you haven't ever left Bremerton. I moved around a lot, and he found me. Hell, I found you."
"I don't know about this, Jenny. Do you have any idea how this will mess up my life? I don't know how I will explain a 'long lost son' to anyone. I never told anyone else about the situation. Did you?"
"I've been totally honest just in case this ever happened. My husband knows...my kids know. I never wanted to be blind-sided by something from the past."
Ron's head was swimming. Why on earth hadn't she just listened to him back then. However, his curosity got the best of him. "What's his name?"
"It seems his parents kept the first name I gave him. His name is Joey."
"Wow. I wonder what he looks like. I wonder what he's like. This is kind of mind-blowing, you know?" He fidgeted with the salt and pepper shakers in his kitchen.
"Are you going to be okay? I know you never wanted this kind of thing in your life." She paused, and they were both momentarily lost in their own thoughts. "How are you, by the way? Are you happy? Did you ever get married?"
"No. I'm still single and living in the same house. I still have the same job in the shipyard...there's never been anyone I wanted to tie myself down with."
"So…you got what you wanted then? A life with little fuss and muss. But, are you happy?"
"I have some regrets. I sometimes wonder if we should've gotten married and brought up our son, and maybe a few more kids."
"Wow, that's a surprise. I really thought that after you gave me the money for the abortion, you simply didn't care."
"Yeah. That's gonna be tough to explain, huh? Do I have to tell him about that? I thought it was a moot point since you went ahead and had the baby."
"I'm going to be totally honest. I will tell him my part, and that includes why I didn't keep him. I couldn't raise him on my own, and your only answer was an abortion."
"This is gonna suck. And hurt," he said, feeling the regrets down deep in his soul.
"Well, he'll probably be calling soon, so I'll hang up. Take care and good luck."
"You take care, too. I did love you as much as I could. Remember that when you talk to him."
"I will. I think we made the best decision we could at the time. He will just have to accept us for who we are, and who we were back then."
"Bye, Jenny."
"Bye, Ron."
His thoughts turned back to his life. Was this the answer he needed? Would he now have a son in his life? Or would this thing blow up in his face?
He was holding his head in his hands as the phone began to ring.
to be continued...
Author Notes |
thank you to PhotoBucket for the image of people talking on the phone.
I wrote this story based on a friend's recollections. I've known her for over thirty years and I was there at the beginning. Through the magic of the internet and free long distance, I've been able to hear the whole story. With her permission, I've developed a story line based on what happened between her and her lover. The names have been changed to protect the innocent and the guilty. |
By Mustang Patty
Summary of the Book so far:
Back in 1983, Jenny and Ron met on their way to work in the shipyard. He worked at one end of the shipyard and she worked in a building closer to the gate they went in together. The shipyard in Bremerton employed about nine thousand people back then. After flirting and talking for several weeks, Ron finally asked Jenny out.
Their first date was magical, and it was the beginning of a wonderful six months or so of dating. Jenny warned Ron that there wouldn't be any sex until they were in a committed relationship. She remained true to her word. Ron finally told her he loved her and expressed his belief that they had something that would last.
The feelings of elation for Jenny were dispelled the very next day. She arrived at Ron's house, after ignoring her ringing phone as she left the house. When she let herself in, she found Ron sitting with a strange woman. Unbeknown to her, this was Ron' half-sister who had been blackmailing him for years.
She left the house with a broken heart, and Ron didn't follow her. He was at a total loss as to what to do.
The misunderstandings continued and the couple drifted further and further apart.
Jenny found out she was pregnant two weeks after a bitter argument with Ron. Hurtful words had been said by both. Their stubbornness once again got in the way of them working things out. Calling Ron with the news, Jenny was disappointed when he didn't want to speak about it, but asked for a few hours to 'process' the news.
Eighteen years later, the 'baby,' named Joey, is about to call Ron. Jenny calls Ron first to warn him to be ready. They talk briefly, and Ron is left with his thoughts and regrets as he waits for the call from the son he deserted so long ago…
Author Notes |
photo courtesy of Public Domain; Mended Heart
I wrote this story based on a friend's recollections. I've known her for over thirty years and I was there at the beginning. Through the magic of the internet and free long distance, I could hear the whole story. With her permission, I've developed a story line based on what happened between her and her lover. The names have been changed to protect the innocent and the guilty. |
By Mustang Patty
Our story so far:
Back in 1983, Jenny and Ron met on their way to work in the shipyard. He worked at one end of the shipyard and she worked in a building closer to the gate they went in together. The shipyard in Bremerton employed about nine thousand people back then. After flirting and talking for several weeks, Ron finally asked Jenny out.
Their first date was magical, and it was the beginning of a wonderful six months or so of dating. Jenny warned Ron that there wouldn't be any sex until they were in a committed relationship. She remained true to her word. Ron finally told her he loved her and expressed his belief that they had something that would last.
The feelings of elation for Jenny were dispelled the very next day. She arrived at Ron's house, after ignoring her ringing phone as she left the house. When she let herself in, she found Ron sitting with a strange woman. Unbeknown to her, this was Ron' half-sister who had been blackmailing him for years.
She left the house with a broken heart, and Ron didn't follow her. He was at a total loss as to what to do.
The misunderstandings continued and the couple drifted further and further apart.
Jenny found out she was pregnant two weeks after a bitter argument with Ron. Hurtful words had been said by both. Their stubbornness once again got in the way of them working things out. Calling Ron with the news, Jenny was disappointed when he didn't want to speak about it but asked for a few hours to 'process' the news.
Eighteen years later, the 'baby,' called Ron. Jenny calls Ron first to warn him to be ready. When Joey, the son they put up for adoption, speaks with his birth father, they are able to build a relationship. Ron and Joey are living in Bremerton, WA and Jenny are living in San Diego, CA with her family.
When Jenny's other children have left the nest for college, she plans a trip with her husband. They are going to go to Bremerton so Jenny can meet her son. Their plans are interrupted by her husband's sudden illness.
Austin, Jenny's husband, is diagnosed with ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease. After suffering for two long years, he dies, leaving Jenny widowed.
A few weeks after the funeral, she receives a sympathy card…
Author Notes |
Dedicated to my friend, and a love she lost and gained;
There are four love words in modern Greek, 6 in Ancient Greek, Hebrew has four, we have one. Attraction is one thing, but indeed what is love, the only constant love is God's. I guess that's why we have a marriage contract, by far the most successful are arranged ones. But who knows. It obviously doesn't depend on emotion. The real 'Jenny' passed away at the end of August. She has gone to her better place, and both Ron and I are left to mourn one of the truest loves we've ever known. I will never have another friend like her, nor did I have anyone before she came into my life back in 1982. I'm truly sorry it took so long to finish this saga. My grief wouldn't allow me to try to put into words the final days in the hospital. Thank you all for your patience and loyal readership. |
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