The Timber Effect

by Jacklyn Reynolds

  After she took a bow and sat down, Chad began to open his pile. The first gift was from his parents. It was a football autographed by 49ers quarterback Jeff Garcia. He got a new hat with fake hair from Emily as a joke, but he put it on and wouldn't take it off. He flicked his fake hair back like a diva, making the room fill with laughter. From Grace, he got a journal for reasons she wouldn't say in front of the family. Henry got him a pair of cufflinks, and Timber got him a new pair of dress shoes.

  Chad put them on over his socks and held out his hand to Timber. She took it and danced to Frosty the Snowman. Then Emily cut in when the song changed and Timber snapped a picture of Emily standing on Chad's feet while he led his daughter in a slow circle. Halfway through the song, Grace took her turn and again, Timber took a photo. She glanced over at Henry who was smiling as he watched Chad and Grace lost in each other's eyes. When the song finished, Henry, Timber, and Emily clapped as Chad and Grace bowed and sat back down.

  Emily opened her pile next. She squealed in delight when she opened her first makeup kit from Grace containing everything from brushes and foundation to eyeshadows and lipsticks. Chad got her a new winter dress and a matching headband, Henry got her a new drawing pad and Timber got her professional grade pastels which she opened immediately and squealed which made Timber laugh. From both sets of grandparents, Emily got a teddy bear for her collection and a card with cash that Emily always saved.

  Henry got a new black tie from Chad which Chad had to show him how to tie because no one had shown him before. He opened a history trivia game from Grace, of which Emily swore he would be the reigning champion. Henry got a picture in a frame of him and Timber together from Emily and a new pair of mittens that Timber had attempted to knit herself. He also got a brand new wallet from Timber because she noticed that his old one was falling apart. She smiled when he put the contents of his old wallet into his new one. Grace's mother even sent him a book with small history facts for every day of the year.

  At last, it was Timber's turn. When Timber looked at her pile, her immediate thought was that Henry had forgotten about her. She didn't see the wrapping paper he used for the other gifts. She put the thought aside as she opened up a pair of diamond earrings from Chad, a matching necklace from Grace, a new box of film from Emily that would last her three months, a real pearl necklace from her cousin Cindy, and a new pair of cowboy boots with yellow rose details from Grace's parents, as well as a card with cash from Chad's parents. Timber swapped her daily pearls for the real ones at once.

  "Thank you guys so much," she said trying not to sound hurt as she discreetly looked for her gift from Henry. She wasn't expecting one from him but everyone else got one, so she was feeling a bit left out.

  "Henry didn't forget about you," said Chad noticing Timber's tone. "He wanted to give you your gift directly. Go ahead, Henry."

  Henry looked nervous all of a sudden. He got off of the couch and walked over to Timber who, by now, was completely confused. Henry pulled a small unwrapped black box out his pocket with shaking hands and got down on one knee in front of Timber.

  "I love you with every part of my being. You are my heart and I can't live the rest of my life without you." Henry opened up the box to reveal a beautiful white gold engagement ring with a small white diamond on top. "Timber Elizabeth Brogan, will you please marry me?"

  Timber's eyebrows shot upwards, her eyes opened wide and a quick breath of air before she covered her mouth and burst into tears of joy. Timber felt as though she were bright blue and yellow on a cloudless, perfect summer day. Her body bent forward so her hair covered her face. Her body shook as she wept joyfully into her palms. She remained that way for only a moment before she lifted her head and pushed her hair away from her face. As she looked into Henry's pleading hazel eyes, she nodded her head with a smile and cried harder as Henry slipped the ring onto her finger. Forgetting that she was a lady, Timber didn't hesitate to knock Henry backward as she flung herself into his arms. She lay on top of him in the living room, weeping happily into his chest. Timber could hear Emily squealing, and Grace sobbing with joy.

  "Merry Christmas, Henry," said Timber. She kissed him softly on the lips.

  "Merry Christmas Timber," said Henry happily. He rolled her over so that his body was covering hers and Timber wanted nothing more than for him to steal her breath away, but Henry got to his feet. Timber was left feeling mildly disappointed but took his hand and let him pull her to her feet.

  "Timber," said Emily holding up Timber's camera. "Don't worry. I took pictures."

  Timber smiled. This was the best Christmas she had ever had and she would never, ever forget it.

  Timber couldn't believe that winter break was over already. What was harder to believe, however, was that she was actually engaged. Right after the annual New Year's Eve party at Gina's parents' house (which Henry had to miss due to the secrecy of his and Timber's relationship), Timber made cards and small bouquets for her four best friends in the world. She wanted them all in the bridal party and she wanted Xianna as her maid of honor. So when she was getting ready that morning she made sure she had everything she needed for the day as well as the gifts for the girls. She met Henry outside of his house and he looked weary and tired like he usually did after a full moon, but he definitely seemed happier.

  "Good morning, Baby," said Henry after a swift kiss. "So we haven't talked much about the wedding yet."

  "I know. I've tried to wrap my head around it," said Timber. Her face was still red from Henry calling her Baby. "Six months ago I thought I was going to be that crazy old cat lady and now I'm engaged."

  "It's a bit overwhelming at times but that's because I don't like standing and speaking in front of people."

  "Yet you teach," said Timber with a grin.

  "That's different. I don't have specific lines to say."

  "We could write our own vows to each other," suggested Timber.

  "I like that idea," said Henry happily. "I still have to speak in front of people but if I mess up, no one will know." He threw his arms up in triumph and Timber folded in half laughing. "That definitely takes the pressure off. So when do you want to get married?"

  "The doctor said that Uncle Chad has until August or September," said Timber. "He has to be able to walk me down the aisle so I was thinking about June after graduation. He should still be able to walk."

  "June it is then. I need to check the lunar calendar to make sure we avoid the days around full moon. I don't want to be leaning against this damn cane."

  "That makes sense," said Timber. "My friends are going to go nuts over this, you know. I had to wear gloves to hide the ring. Gina has an eye for spotting shiny things. I want to give them their bridal party gifts before I show them."

  "I have a slight problem," said Henry, suddenly looking unsure. "I don't have anyone to be groomsmen or my best man. The only man I'm close to at this point in my life is your uncle."

  "You don't have family?" asked Timber. "What about childhood friends from Haven?"

  "My only family was my mom, her parents and my brother, and sister," said Henry sadly. "My sister is dead and I lost contact with my mother years ago. I don't know if she's even alive. I'm pretty sure my grandparents are dead too. I suppose I could try to contact my brother. I have his phone number. As for my friends from Haven, most of them are unable to leave. The one that could... I don't know where he is now. I can try and see if the number he gave me five years ago still works."

  "Well I'll figure something out," Timber reassured him. "You're not going to be without your groomsmen. Wait a minute, what about the teachers? You've got to be friends with a few of the teachers. I've seen you hanging out with Mr. Metsura and Mr. Hodges during lunch."

  "I don't know if we're close enough for them to be groomsmen," said Henry. "We don't see each other outside of work."

  "There's no harm in asking," said Timber. Then she thought of something that made her insides squirm. "Are you going to have to tell the principal abou
t the engagement?"

  "Unfortunately, yes," said Henry. "I think you should expect to see her sometime today or tomorrow."

  "Well that's going to be a cheerful visit," said Timber sarcastically. They walked on the campus and Timber stopped as she was overwhelmed by the feeling of depression.

  "What's wrong?"

  "It's just that... I'm eighteen. I'm legally an adult and I'm also engaged to you. Do we still have to keep our relationship a secret from everyone?"

  "For now yes," said Henry. "Try to be patient for the time being alright? When the time is right, I'll make our relationship public."

  "Okay," said Timber. She felt better instantly. "Well, I'm off to drown in hugs. The girls are going to be very happy about this."

  "I don't doubt that. I'll see you later. I love you, Mia Bella."

  Timber's eyes grew wide and they almost overflowed.

  "You know what I said?"

  "No, but it is the most beautiful thing you have ever called me. What does it mean?"

  "My Beautiful," replied Henry. "It's Italian and it's true. Everything about you makes my life beautiful. You're beautiful. I love you."

  "If we weren't at school I'd kiss you," said Timber breathlessly. She smiled. "I love you too, Henry."

  Timber walked through the front doors carrying her cards and flowers. She paused to make sure that the flowers still looked fresh. She was still within earshot of Henry when Diana came over looking smug.

  "You brought flowers for yourself? Oh, Timber. How desperate are you?" Timber heard Henry stop and she knew he was watching. Diana grabbed one of the bouquets from Timber and examined it. "You should have been more convincing if you wanted people to believe that Miss Tootsie Roll managed to score a man. Carnations are a pathetic route. Roses might have been more believable."

  "I have a boyfriend thank you very much," said Timber grabbing the flowers back angrily.

  "Really? I'd love to meet the guy who is brain-dead enough to go out with you," said Diana with a twisted grin. "What's he like, in middle school in the stupid kid class?"

  "No, he's older and extremely intelligent. Now if you'll please move." Timber tried to walk around but Diana blocked her and knocked the cards out of Timber's arms. Diana laughed as Timber knelt to pick everything up. Her ears perked up as she heard Henry come over. His cane made a distinct click against the floor. "You know you're pretty stupid to try to pick a fight in front of a teacher."

  "I don't see - Oh, good morning Mr. Santelli." Her attitude changed from mockery to flirtatiousness as soon as she saw Henry. She stuck her chest out slightly to make her breasts look larger.

  "Is there something wrong girls?" he asked mildly though Timber could see the irritation in his eyes when he looked at Diana.

  "Not at all Mr. Santelli," cooed Diana. "Timber accidentally dropped her things." She pretended to offer Timber help up but Timber refused. "So are you going to be at prom, Mr. Santelli? I hope you are. I picked out a dress I think might make you happy."

  "Please stop Diana or I will put you in detention," said Henry warningly.

  "Why would I stop then?" asked Diana. She bit her bottom lip and stepped in front of Henry. "I'd love to be in detention with you. I'd love to see you... horizontal."

  Timber glared at her with a cold fury. Diana was taking it too far. Henry stepped back and put his left hand up and leaned heavily on his cane. "I could make it a suspension you know."

  Diana sighed and smiled. "Okay, but you don't know what you're missing Mr. Santelli." She walked away swinging her hips and Henry ran a hand down his face. Timber growled at Diana as she rounded the corner. She wanted nothing more than to rip her blonde hair out of her head.

  "That little - rrrrr - I swear if she makes a move on you again....."

  "Calm down, Timber," said Henry softly. "I appreciate your protectiveness over me, though. It's cute. If she does anything like that again, I'll suspend her. Now, you have presents to deliver to your bridal party."

  Timber smiled and put Diana out of her mind as she headed off to the main quad. She spotted her friends back in the usual spot and she hurried over. They saw her approach and they waved happily.

  "What's all this?" asked Xianna curiously as she looked at the bouquets in Timber's arms.

  "They're presents for you. Here are your flowers." Timber passed them out and the girls looked happy beyond belief as they smelled them. "These are also for you but you all have to open them at the same time." Timber passed out the cards making sure Xianna had the special one. "Open them."

  There was a moment of silence followed by four loud and ecstatic squeals of joy and Timber was buried under a mound of hugs. When the girls stopped squealing, she heard the sound of Henry laughing. She peaked through Gina and Kendra and saw him crossing the quad. He was a little unsteady as his cane wasn't much help on the slightly frosted and muddy concrete.

  "You girls should let Timber breathe," said Henry with a grin. They all turned their eyes up and looked like they wanted to hug Henry but he held up his hand. "I'm not in a position to be knocked over now as you can see." He lowered his voice. "This needs to stay between us," said Henry warningly. "I don't want you talking about it anywhere you could be overheard. My job and Timber's reputation are on thin ice because of this. In time, I'll make it known that we're in a relationship, but for now, it needs to stay a secret." Henry smiled and walked away towards the office.

  "That was weird," said Xianna. She turned to Timber. "He wants to keep the two of you a secret?"

  "For now," said Timber. "Though, Mrs. Holborn knows. If he's going to the office, he's going to tell her about the engagement."

  "Okay, gloves off," said Gina. "Let's see the ring." Timber took off her gloves and the girls ogled over the ring. Gina said that Henry had good taste. Everyone else agreed.

  "When did he propose?" asked Ashley.

  "Christmas morning," said Timber. "He got down on one knee in front of the family and asked me."

  "When is the wedding?" asked Kendra.

  "Sometime in June after graduation," said Timber. The girls stared.

  "Why are you rushing it?" asked Ashley. "You've known each other long enough to be engaged but right after graduation? You're not pregnant are you?"

  "No, we haven't even come close to being that intimate," said Timber which in her mind was true because Henry had never tried to undress her. "Uncle Chad only has until August, maybe September. I wouldn't be able to enjoy my wedding if he wasn't there. Henry and I were already talking about getting married one day anyway. We weren't expecting June, but I wanted Uncle Chad there and I didn't want to change my last name until after I finished school. June is the best option because Uncle Chad should still be able to walk."

  "That makes sense," said Xianna.

  "You know you guys never answered my question," said Timber. "Will you be in my bridal party?"

  "I don't know why you bother to ask because the answer is an obvious yes," said Ashley happily. "Just no neon colors."

  "Puke green it is then," said Timber. The girls gagged and Timber laughed. "Come on, guys, you already know you're going to be in yellow."

  "I can't believe our little Timber is getting married!" cried Gina.

  "Little?" asked Timber with a grin and a raised eyebrow.

  "Well, you're the shortest and the youngest of us," said Xianna.

  "Xianna, we're twenty-four hours apart," Timber pointed out.

  "I was still born first," said Xianna. "That makes me smarter than you."

  "But I have better grades than you," said Timber.

  "That's because you're not lazy," said Ashley. "But Gina has better grades than all of us. What do you have, a 3.75 GPA?"

  "It doesn't matter," said Gina waving her hand as if she was trying to change the subject.

  "Timber's got the next best at 3.5, and then the rest of us have a 3.0 average," said Kendra who was choosing to ignore Gina.

  "The only reason I bother with my homework is because it's e
xpected of me and I don't want to disappoint my aunt and uncle," said Timber. "Also, can you imagine the disappointment on Henry's face if I didn't turn in my homework."

  "You're not excused permanently?" teased Ashley.

  Timber laughed. "Just because we're together, doesn't mean that he can treat me different from everyone here. Thankfully his homework is easy."

  The bell rang, putting an end to the conversation. The girls separated and Timber headed off to her gym class. She finished changing into her gray hooded sweater and purple sweatpants, wondering what time she was going to be called to see the principal when the teacher said that she was wanted in the office. She closed her locker without changing back into her regular clothes and walked to the front of the school.

  Timber had only been to the office on two different occasions. Once during her freshman year because she was sick and needed to go home early and once last year because she lost her math book and it had been taken to the office. When she entered, the staff was speaking among themselves in hushed voices but Timber's sensitive ears picked up on the conversations easily. They were talking about her and Henry like it was some kind of Hollywood scandal. One of the women whispered to another that Timber and Henry were probably sleeping together and Henry should be fired, and Timber, expelled. Timber stopped and looked directly at the woman.

  "Nothing that you think is happening is actually happening. Get your head out of the gutter and have more respect for your colleagues and your students," said Timber. The woman looked as though she had been slapped. "That's right, I can hear you. I can hear every one of your whispered conversations. I could hear them clearly as soon as I came in. If you actually respected people instead of being immature and jumping to conclusions about something that you don't understand, you may find that more people actually like you."

  "You need to respect your elders Miss Brogan," said the woman as though she could find nothing else to say.