by Joe Woods
I don’t think you know about the secret hiding place in the National Military Park. Conner and I hid out there many hours when we were growing up. As you are aware, there are many caves in the sides of the bluffs. Conner and I found one cave near the Fort Hill area, just to the west of the spiral tower. After we discovered a cave that was in remarkably good condition, we furnished the cave with a gas lantern, flashlights, candles, canned food, and water, and of course, a bed. It was set up just like an apartment.
Connor and I spent many hours, especially during the summer months and watched some spectacular thunderstorms move across the Mississippi River. During my senior year in high school, we began having sex several times a week. You can imagine what happened next. During a rain storm on Thanksgiving eve, I announced to Connor that I was five months pregnant. Connor went berserk and started yelling and screaming. He insisted I get an abortion. I told him I would not get an abortion and planned to carry the baby to term. He became so violent that, even in a driving rain storm, I ran out of the cave headed for the spiral tower.
Our dirt path was slick as glass and as Connor chased and caught me, we slipped and rolled about 50 feet downhill winding up in a patch of blackberry briars. I told him to leave me alone, but he dragged me back into the cave. We were wet, cold, covered with mud, and scratched and bruised from head to toe. We sat in the cave for what seemed like an eternity, not speaking. But probably within ten minutes, I suddenly felt a sharp pain in my lower stomach and began to bleed. Then, just as quickly as the pain hit, I miscarried the baby. There we sat, a pitiful sight, scared to death, not knowing what to do. I told Connor I needed to take the baby out to the hospital, but he flatly refused to let me leave.
I asked what he wanted to do and he said we should bury the baby in the cave. I told him I didn’t want to do that, but he finally convinced me that was the right thing to do. So, I wrapped the baby in a beach towel and laid him beside me on the bed. Then I said, “We need a coffin if we’re going to leave the baby here.”
Connor suggested we use one of the old army ammunition cans in Daddy’s barn to bury the baby. He left to get one and I cut up a beach towel into small pieces to make the baby a bed. When Connor returned, we dug a shallow grave and buried the baby. We placed a limb cross on the grave.
When I got home that night, I slipped in the back door and went straight into the bathroom. I took a shower, cleaned up my mess, and placed my blood stained clothes in a strong plastic bag. The next day, I took the bag to the cave and haven’t been there since.
Although, I have thought about that day many times in the last thirty-five years, Connor and I have never discussed what we did that day until today. I told Connor I wanted to exhume the baby and have a proper burial for him, but Connor flew into a rage, cursing and threatening to kill me if I ever entered that cave and did something like that. I told him I fully intended to do that with or without him.
Also, Woody, I have another confession to make. Connor and I robbed several jewelry stores in Vicksburg and surrounding cities. All of the jewelry was placed in individual zip lock bags with a note inside, telling from whom we stole the jewelry. We stapled each bag to a 4 foot by 8 foot piece of plywood and used it as our wall decoration. You will also find newspaper articles of mysterious and unsolved thefts catalogued and preserved in sealed plastic bags.
If I’m unable to rectify this indiscretion, I want you to take care of it for me. I know all of the jewelry is worth much more now than it was when we stole it. So please follow the instructions in each zip lock bag and return the jewelry to the rightful owner. Have the owner appraise each piece at today’s market and reimburse that amount.
To cover these expenses, I will give, devise, and bequeath all of my worldly goods and assets to Anne. I am of sound mind, and body and I will make a last will and testament to that effect when I return to Vicksburg. I’m writing this for your use and hope that you won’t have to follow through, but just in case I meet with an untimely death, you will know where to start looking.
Your Loving Cousin,
Willow Kingston McKenzie
Signed this date 27 July, 2007
After finishing the letters, Willow and Gloria relaxed for a moment, nibbling at the breakfast sitting in front of them.
“Gloria, I need a large envelope and a regular size one. Do you have anything like that in your office?”
“Yes Ma’am. I’m sure we do. Would you like for me to mail the letters for you?”
“No. All I want to do is seal them and I’ll hand deliver them when I get to Vicksburg.”
“When are you leaving?”
“Just as soon as I can charter a flight out of here.”
“Ma’am, would you like for me to make those arrangements?”
“Gloria that would be very helpful. I want to leave as soon as possible.”
“No problem, Ma’am. I will call and see what’s available. You sit back and rest. I hate to say this, but you look like a big truck has run over you.”
“Gloria, I feel that way, too. The last three days have been an emotional roller coaster and I haven’t had a good night’s sleep in that same time. I think I’ll take a warm shower.”
Gloria thought, I feel so sorry for her. I wonder what went so horribly wrong. Yesterday everything seemed on the up and up but now……
Willow emerged, wrapped in a terry cloth robe.
“Ms. McKenzie, the flight arrangements have been made. A charter plane will be on the ground in two hours. The flight time to Vicksburg-Tallulah Regional Airport is just short of two hours. So, in four hours you should be back home.”
“I’ll get dressed and pack my bags. Isn’t it about a thirty minute drive to the airport?”
“Yes. Let’s plan on that. Sometimes the traffic gets snarled, but at this time of day, that shouldn’t be a problem. I’ll call the limo out front so when you’re ready, you can leave at your leisure. But, you know we need to stop by the Emporium and buy a western outfit for you.”
“That would be nice. I had planned on doing that today, anyway, and it looks like we’ve got time. Thanks, Gloria. You’re a great friend. I want you to stay by my side until I leave the hotel though.”
“Willow, if you would like, I can ride to the airport with you also. If that will make you feel better. “
“Yes, it would. Thank you.”
“Do you feel threatened by Connor? Do I need to call the police? I could get one of the patrol units to escort you to the airport if you think that is necessary.”
“I really don’t think so, but I can tell you Connor left in a very angry state of mind. I’ve seen a side of him that I didn’t know existed. I guess he feels threatened and cornered, so he is poised to strike back. I just don’t know what he’s capable of at this point... I need to make a phone call to my Cousin Woody.”
“That’s fine. Take your time, I'm on watch duty.”
Willow called Woody on his cell number.
“Woody McKenzie speaking. How may I help you?”
“Woody this is Willow.”
“Hey, Cuz. What’s happening? Where are you?”
“I’m still in San Antonio, but plan on returning to Vicksburg later today.”
Would it be possible for you to pick me up at the Vicksburg-Tallulah Regional Airport?”
“Why, sure. What about Connor?”
“He’s gone already.”
“Gone already? What happened?”
“It is a long story and I’ll fill you in when you meet me.”
“Are you okay?”
“Yes, I’m fine. Just a bit tired and frustrated.”
“I’ll be waiting at VTR for you.”
“Thanks Woody. I knew that I can always count on you.”
Willow’s cell rang. Looking at the number displayed, she recognized it as belonging to Tony.
“Hello, Tony. How are you?”
“Hi, Willow. I’m fine. How are you?”
“Doing okay. What’s up?”
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br /> “I’m playing hooky from work today and for the rest of the week and had a crazy thought. I want to fly down to Mississippi for a visit. What do you think of that?”
Laughing, Willow said, “Just on a whim. That is crazy.”
“We’re in the middle of another storm and I saw the beautiful Mississippi weather prediction on the weather channel, and said why not. Looks like you’re basking in warm dry sunshine.”
“That’s right. So, come on down. I’m leaving San Antonio shortly and will be home in about three hours. Are you planning on flying in today?”
“With your blessings, I can leave La Guardia at five this afternoon. That would put me in Jackson by midnight. Will that work for you? I’ll pick up a rental and drive to Vicksburg.”
“Tony, you sound so excited. Call me when you leave Jackson. I’ll meet you at the Waffle House on the North Frontage Road. Take exit 3, cross Indiana Avenue onto the frontage road, and the restaurant will be on your right.”
“Wonderful, Willow. I’ll see you later tonight.”
As Willow’s plane streaked across the Texas and Louisiana skies, her thoughts drifted back to the day when she and Connor were going to San Antonio. She thought, what a difference forty-eight hours makes. The amorous thoughts twenty-four hours ago were a one hundred eighty degrees change of direction from today.
Unlike the flight to San Antonio, her thoughts now centered on the argument she had with Connor. She had once again turned on her professional persona, leaving behind her romantic and softer side. Willow remembered the plaque hanging on Woody’s den wall where two old vultures are sitting high in a tree snag, looking down on the earth creatures below. The caption reads; “Patience Hell, Let’s Kill Somebody.” That was her mind-set related to Connor.
In her mind, he had turned into a wimp, unable to stand up, face reality, and take whatever punishment was due. He didn’t appear to be the least bit remorseful, nor interested in rectifying a wrong. On the other hand, Willow felt tremendous remorse, was repentant, and willing to do the right thing.
She was completely lost in her thoughts as the flight to VTR was over very quickly. As the plane sat down on the runway, she looked out to see good ole Woody standing on the tarmac. Shortly, the plane taxied to a stop and Willow was greeted with a big bear hug and a smile from Woody.
“What’s going on, Cuz? What did you and Connor fight about?”
“Woody, I have to tell you that I saw a completely different side of Connor, one I had no idea existed. You warned me and now I’ve seen for myself. I must confess I didn’t completely buy what you were selling, but now I’ve seen the light. You know what’s so strange is that Connor’s moods change like the direction of the wind. Is he bipolar?”
“Oh, I’m not a doctor and can’t rule on that question, but I believe he is guilty of some deceitful acts at McKenzie Towing. I mentioned you need to get with Olga and do a thorough search of the legal files on record at the courthouse. Also, I would strongly recommend you check Uncle Rupert’s personal checking account to see if Connor has embezzled any money. I’m pretty sure what you will find, but a close review by you of the records will open your eyes and better prepare you to deal with him.”
“So, you really think he has abused Daddy?”
“Not physically, but certainly financially and emotionally. And, don’t overlook Caitlyn. I think she is Connor’s accomplice. You should see her house out in the most exclusive neighborhood in Warren County. I can tell you a secretary can’t afford to live like that on her salary alone. But, that’s enough negative talk. Why don’t you come out to the McKenzie Estate and spend a few days with us? It would do you good to be around family who love you.”
“Thanks, Woody. But, I want to go to my old home place where Daddy and I lived all those years. I didn’t want to move back into the house, but given the circumstance that have developed, that’s the best deal for me now.”
“That’s fine. I’m sure you’ll find everything in good shape. Your daddy’s house keeper has taken very good care of it since Uncle Rupert moved to the assisted living complex. That was a good move for him because he could be around his friends, rather than being confined to the house with Mamie.”
Woody drove on Interstate 20 heading east toward Vicksburg. After crossing the river, he turned south on Warrington Road and soon they were parked in Uncle Rupert’s driveway at 530 Windward Way.
“Mrs. Bray is a good person and a bit nosey. That is another reason your Daddy is better off living where he is.”
“I’m sure that is true. When I lived there years ago, she always meddled in my affairs.”
As Woody pulled into the driveway, Mrs. Bray came out her front door before the truck had come to a complete stop.
“There she is. Go talk to her and let her know what’s going on. Otherwise, she’ll call the police.”
For a moment, Mrs. Bray stared at Willow then said,” Willow, it is good to see you.”
“Yes ma’am. And, it is good to see you, too.”
“My goodness, you’re a sight for sore eyes. Are you going to move in?”
“Yes ma’am. I’m home to stay and be your neighbor once again.”
“Wonderful. And what about your daddy? That man over there doesn’t look like him.”
Laughing, Willow said, “That’s not daddy. You remember my cousin Woody, don’t you?”
“Woody, my goodness, yes. You two kids spent many hours playing football and soccer in that back yard.”
"Willow, where do you want me to put your bags?”
“In my room, of course.”
Willow bid Mrs. Bray good bye and entered her childhood home.
“Not much has changed,” she said, looking around. “The furniture is still in place and everything is spotless.”
Mamie appeared from the rear of the house. “Miss Willow, I’m glad you’re back. I heard you and Mr. Connor went to San Antonio. Where is he?”
“I don’t know.”
“I’m going to leave now,” Woody said. “Do you need transportation?”
“Yes. Do you have a car or pickup I could borrow for a couple of days? I’m either going to buy a new car or have mine shipped down from New York.”
“I’ve got just the car you need parked in my garage. It is a red hot Ford Mustang convertible. I would be happy for you to use it. What kind of car are you thinking about buying?”
“It will be a black Jag. Is there a dealer in Jackson?”
“Yeah, but you would have a much better selection in New Orleans.”
“I can do that.”
“Do you want me or Olga to go with you?”
“Woody, that won’t be necessary. One of my friends from New York is coming to town tonight. I’m certain he would be happy to go car shopping with me.”
“Hmmm. A New York friend, huh?”
“Yeah, we shared rides on the subway for several years and have dated a couple of times.”
“Okay, let’s go get some wheels.”
“Mamie, I’ll be back within an hour. Will you please wait here for me?”
“Yes ma’am.”
“Woody, I feel so much better after talking to you. It is good to be back home.”
* * *
Woody pulled up to the McKenzie compound security gate, pointed his remote control, and the double gates parted. As they rolled along the meandering driveway, Willow said, “This place is absolutely beautiful.”
“I agree, Willow. We have worked quite hard with a master gardener and landscape architect. The annual and perennial flowers have been bred and planted, so that something is blooming most of the year. I love the baby breaths, the jonquils, iris, day lilies, and spider lilies. At this time of year, the pink and white azaleas take center stage.”
“Woody, you have done quite well. Seems like you and Olga are perfectly matched.”
“Yes, I think we are. One of my main concerns when our relationship began to bloom was how Anne would react toward Olga. I was concerned
as to how they would share me. I must say, these two females don’t have a problem. Olga has been a wonderful stepmother and cares for Anne just as if she were her own biological child.”
“Have you and Olga thought about a child?”
“Yes, we have discussed that possibility, and if it happens that’s great, but we’re not doing anything to increase the odds.”
Woody stopped his truck about fifty feet from the garage. As he pressed the remote control button, the security doors rolled up and out of sight. Setting in Willow’s full view was a Fire Engine Red Ford Mustang with a khaki convertible top.
“Woody, that is one beautiful set of wheels. And, it matches your personality to a ‘T’.”
“I really love driving that mean machine. When I take it out on the road, I have to be very conscious about my speed. It has so much power and will jump up to 80 mph in a few seconds. It attracts a lot of attention from the cops.”
“Are you sure you want me to drive that 'stang'?”
“Yes. I think you’ll enjoy it. I’ll let the top down, so the wind can blow through that beautiful blonde hair. It will help clear your mind.”
“Okay. I’m game.”
Willow sat under the steering wheel and fired up the engine. Since the garage had doors on both sides, she was able to go forward and follow the circular drive way back to the street. As Willow entered onto the street, she gave the gas pedal a slight tap and the engine roared to life making that patented, distinctive Mustang sound.
Willow thought, This is fun and I’m sure Tony will like it also. Maybe we should drive to New Orleans in it. When she arrived at 530 Windward Way, Mamie was sitting with Mrs. Bray on her patio.