Wanda

by carl smothers

  “I’m so glad you accepted my invitation. I hope you like to fish and sleep under the stars.”

  “I like to fish, and I think it will be fun to sleep out and look at the stars. Hi, Scooter.”

  “Hello, Pepper. Hey guys let’s roll! The bass are waiting,” He then turned on a fishing video intently studying what the pro’s techniques. “Wait till they tangle with ole Scooter. I’ll show those bass who the man is.”

  Pepper and Harry couldn’t help but laugh at him.

  “That boy’s going to have a processor overload before we get to the lake,” Pepper said.

  “Harry activated the video camera so Wanda could share the ride out with them. “Okay, Wanda, are you ready to go?”

  “I think I’m as excited as Scooter,” she said laughing. “I can’t believe you got an STV with a video link. Thanks, I really appreciate it. I’m gonna love this. Hi, Pepper. I’m so glad you’re going with us. It’s going to be so much fun.”

  “Take us to Lake Ramah,” Harry ordered. The computer activated the levitation system and drove the STV out to head off for a great weekend. It was easy to tell every time someone hooked a big one. Scooter would let out a squeal. Just listening to him was entertainment in itself as he mentored the guys fishing on the video.

  Boy, this drive is so cool and scenic, Harry thought, as they drove out through the desert. In the distance, magnificent high limestone bluffs capped with green plateaus accentuated the landscape. He could just imagine ancient Indians sending smoke signals from the mesas to communicate with each other. Large birds glided overhead, riding the thermals and gracefully soaring up and down the majestic bluffs. Wanda had the video link working full tilt so she could take in everything. She was giggling and squealing as much as Scooter.

  “You know, Pepper, this sounds corny but New Mexico really is an enchanted land. It’s so beautiful and beguiling. I keep hoping to see an Indian on his pony atop one of those mesas.”

  “That’s not corny. I agree. I’ve never experienced a place quite like this. Who would have ever thought? Aren’t those big birds awesome?” She took a drink of her morning coffee. “They fly so effortlessly and with such beauty.”

  “Hey, Wanda, what do you think?”

  “I’ve never seen anything so beautiful. Thank you for sharing this with me. Those bluffs were magnificent and the birds were so graceful. Hey Scooter, don’t forget to catch one for me.”

  “I’ll catch a lot of ‘em. How big do you want?”

  “Oh, I think a ten pounder will suffice. Think you can do it?”

  “Are you kidding? No sweat! The first one I catch will probably be bigger than that.”

  As they pulled into the park, the computer deactivated the magnetic levitation system and engaged the OGS drive. Scooter gave the computer exact directions to the fishing pier that had the best bass metrics. His head bounced up and down, and he muttered, “Fish, get ready to be caught. The bass master is here. Hurry, Harry,” he cried as they pulled up to the pier. “Okay Mr. Bass, big daddy’s here. Prepare to get caught.” Scooter could hardly contain his excitement. “We’re here, we’re here, let me out of this contraption. I can’t wait. The big one’s waiting for me!”

  As soon as the computer opened the door, Scooter rushed out so fast he almost overshot and had to stomp on his brakes. When the platform stopped, Scooter darted out with his rod and reel in hand to the pier edge to prepare for the greatest moment of his little “life.” He was actually trembling with excitement.

  Harry and Pepper giggled as they unloaded the gear and hauled it to the pier. Scooter dug in his tackle box, trying to choose just the right lure. It was fun watching him as he chattered and muttered while he struggled to attach it to his line. The one he made especially for the big fish he planned to catch.

  Wanda manipulated the camera so she could observe the scenery and everything going on. She chuckled at Scooter as he tried to attach his lure. That looks like so much fun. I wish I could be there with them instead of just watching. This place is so beautiful its breath taking. I’m so happy.

  Mesmerized by the beautiful surroundings, Harry couldn’t help but admire the view, which also included Pepper. The weather was mild and the sky a beautiful blue with white billowy clouds floating lazily overhead in no hurry to go anywhere particular. The air’s fresh clean aroma was easy to breathe. A scent of water lilies rode the currents, drifting by his nose in a mildly sweet but pleasing smell. It is a perfect day for fishing. In fact, it’s a perfect day. He glanced at Pepper. Just looking at her gave him a warm feeling.

  The waters of Lake Ramah were a clear, crystal blue. On the far side of the lake, multicolored limestone bluffs stood like towering giants, rising straight out of the water, reaching for the sky as though they were trying to grab the big fluffy clouds. They looked like some master artist had painted them. The multitude of contrasting colors and designs gave them a mysterious air and enhanced their natural beauty. Small ripples danced across the surface of the clear blue waters. The sun’s rays reflected off the ripples, giving them the appearance of sparkling diamonds. The lake was so clear Harry could see fish swimming around, busily going about their daily activities. The fall colors of the leaves made the trees exceptionally beautifully; their images, reflected from the surface of the lake, struck Harry as a scene begging to be captured on canvas.

  Bet mom would love to paint this picture, he thought.

  A big bass jumped out of the water to catch a dragonfly prompting Scooter to let out a loud squeal. A beautiful eagle swooped down and expertly grabbed a fish. It gracefully glided to a nearby tree and landed on a limb to enjoy its meal.

  “Pepper, did you see him?”

  “Yes, he’s so pretty. Hope our luck’s as good as his.”

  Scooter was not interested in birds. “Guys, did you see that big bass?” he asked. “It’s time to fish! Just watch the ole Bass King!” He cast out his line and the reel immediately backlashed. Scooter’s little head bobbed up and down as he mumbled to himself, trying to undo the mess in his tackle.

  Harry went over to help him. “Don’t feel bad, Scooter. Backlash happens to the best fishermen.”

  “Thanks,” he said, his little voice modulated with a sound of disappointment.

  It took a few minutes, but they finally cleared the backlash and Scooter was anxious to cast again.

  “Well, let’s try this using a little different technique. Bet Sam Waterman has even back lashed a few times,” Scooter said defensively.

  “Hey Scooter, I’m waiting for my fish,” Wanda teased.

  Scooter ignored her. After a couple more tries, he was casting like a pro, picking just the right spots and reeling in like the anglers on the fishing shows he loved so much. His Bass King cap had the bill turned backwards, and he was definitely in his glory. Harry was pleased the little guy was having so much fun.

  Pepper sat on a little three-legged stool watching her cork bob up and down, and admiring the magnificent scenery. She was more relaxed than Harry had seen her in some time. It was obvious she didn’t care if she caught anything. The sun reflected off her beautiful hair, giving it a sparkling, golden reddish color. His heart rate increased, and he flushed … every time he looked at her.

  It was a great day. Scooter caught quite a few, and just like a true bass angler, he released them unharmed back into their environment. “Harry, didn’t I tell you this was a great fishing lake? Did you see all those whoppers I caught?”

  “You’re the man, Scooter.”

  As twilight approached, they sat around the campfire singing, roasting marshmallows and Winnies, and discussing the ones that got away. Wanda even joined the singing. She had a pretty voice. Scooter’s catch got bigger as the night rolled on. It was cute to hear him sing in his little computerized voice. Both Harry and Pepper cracked up listening to Scooter’s rendition of Old McDonald’s farm — especially his donkey and duck imitations that sounded like an old model A Ford horn — loud, squawky and off key.
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br />   The moon was full and the weather mild with a slight chill in the air. Everyone tried to spin the best scary campfire story, including Scooter and Wanda, which made things all the more fun. That night, Harry slept like a baby. He didn’t even want a drink.

  Wanda spent the entire night watching the little animals and listening to the interesting night sounds. It was her first time to experience nature and she was thoroughly enjoying every minute of it. I think I understand why and how much they seem to be enjoying this. Work is good and interesting, but I now know there’s more to life than just working. You need balance to be fulfilled. Especially the company of those you love. Wish I could call mom and share this with her. I’ve never been so happy in my life. It’s so wonderful to be alive and with those I love.

  Like clockwork, the sun peeked over the horizon at 6:20 a.m., announcing a new and glorious day. Harry sat up and saw Scooter getting his gear together. Pepper had just opened her eyes. She lay there with her arms crossed behind her head, her ample breasts filling the front of her blue shirt, moving up and down with each breath.

  Harry gazed at her fondly. She is the most beautiful woman in the world, he thought, even in camp clothes and messy hair.

  “Good morning, Pepper. How did you sleep?”

  Pepper yawned and stretched. “I’ve never slept so well. It was great to get away for a while. I feel wonderful. How about you?”

  “I slept like a log. Looks like Scooter’s about ready. Let’s have some breakfast and get him to the pier before he blows a processor.”

  After breakfast and a bathroom stop, they headed towards the pier. Scooter made a grand announcement. “I’m gonna catch the biggest fish of the trip using a special lure I designed and tied myself.”

  Harry laughed. “It won’t beat mine, Scooter. I’ll definitely be the champ,” he said.

  “We’ll see about that, mister,” Scooter shot back. “I’ve got my lucky fishing charm that the Bass King, Sam Waterman, sent me. No one’s gonna beat me today.”

  “Hey Scooter, you need to catch mine first, I’m still waiting,” Wanda added.

  Pepper was laughing. Harry could tell she was having a wonderful time. She is so beautiful; even in dirty blue jeans, and that old faded shirt. That silly straw hat and her fishing pole with a cork make her sort of look like a female version of Huckleberry Finn … only no freckles and a lot prettier.

  On Scooter’s first cast a monster bass hit his line. Scooter yelled at the top of his voice and tried to play him without breaking his line.

  “I got him, Harry. I got him. He’s a stud! I told you I’d catch a monster,” he yelled, as he fought to reel the big guy in.

  “Stay with him, Scooter!” Harry yelled back.

  The fish was just as determined to pull Scooter in the water, as Scooter was to land it. Scooter’s rod almost bent double as he battled the big bass. As the fight continued, the fish began to get the upper hand, and Scooter slid towards the pier edge.

  Harry yelled, “Scooter, lock your wheels.”

  “They are locked. It’s no good. Oh, nuts! I think I’m gonna take a swim.”

  Harry rushed over and grabbed Scooter at the last instant, just as his wheels were about to go over the edge and dump him into the water.

  “Thanks, Harry! He almost took me down. All right fish, you ain’t gonna beat ole Scooter!” He fought to reel the fish in. After what seemed like an hour-long struggle, the big bass tired, and Scooter finally pulled it in. Pepper grabbed her camera so she could photograph the two of them. The fish was a full fifteen pounds!

  Harry looked at Scooter and asked, “Well, are you going to keep him or what?”

  Scooter looked at the big bass, which was obviously tired from the battle. “No, Harry. This guy deserves to be back in the water. He’s a real champion, and earned his release. I could never deny him his freedom.”

  Scooter expertly and carefully removed the hook, held it so Wanda could see it, and then gently released the big bass into the water. “Goodbye, my friend,” he said. “Thanks for the great fight you put up. You’re a real champion.”

  The bass swam out a ways, then leaped high out of the water as to say thanks, and dived back into the depths to rest and fight another day.

  Suddenly Pepper’s cork went under and her pole bent. “Oh, my! Oh, my!” she yelled. “What do I do?” She jumped up and down and squealed. “Harry, help me … please! I’m gonna lose him!”

  Harry wrapped his arms around her and gently assisted her with the cane pole. When the fish came up, they carefully lifted it on the pier. Harry grabbed her camera and took a picture of Pepper holding her prize, a three-pound large-mouth bass.

  Scooter crowed with delight at her catch. “Good show, Pepper. It is a whopper! It’s a whopper. What a prize.”

  Pepper could hardly contain herself. She put her hands on both sides of Harry’s face and, impulsively, gave him a long passionate kiss. She looked into his eyes and he knew she was the only one for him.

  They released her fish and let it back to its’ home in the clear blue waters.

  “Bye, bye, little fish. Have a happy life,” she said. “Thank you for the memory.”

  ~~

  They sang songs during the drive home, and listened to Scooter’s multiple recollections of his great battle with the monster bass. The further they got from the lake, the bigger the fish he caught became. Pepper downloaded the picture she had taken and gave the memory chip to Scooter.

  “You know, guys, I think I have a great frame for my picture. I’m just not sure where the best place is to hang it,” Scooter said.

  “Why not hang it in the kitchen, over the breakfast table?” Wanda replied.

  “Sounds like a plan,” Scooter replied. “Hey Wanda, what did you think of that monster I caught. Told you I could do it.”

  “You did good, Scooter. I never doubted you.”

  “You know, Harry, it’s a shame Ronnie and Michelle couldn’t have come with us,” Pepper said. “It would have been loads of fun watching Michelle fish.”

  “I know, but Ronnie wanted to take her to the Balloon Festival in Albuquerque. He told me he was going to pop the question.”

  “Really? Well, I can’t wait to talk to Michelle and get all the details,” Pepper grinned. “Did Scott say what his plans were?”

  “He’s golfing with his pals from Sandia Labs. Five bucks a hole, no less.

  Chapter 26

  STL Facility

  New Mexico

  When they got back to Pepper’s quarters, she scooted close to him and smiled.

  “I’ve had a crush on you since the first time I saw you at NSTA, but our professional relationship kept me from acting on how I felt. You know, I just don’t give a damn about that anymore.” She wrapped her arms around his neck then kissed him. After several wet and passionate kisses, he opened her blouse and slid his hand inside, lovingly caressing her voluptuous breasts. She enjoyed having his hands on her. She kissed his cheek and whispered in his ear, “We still have to work together … you know?” She was panting from desire for him.

  Harry took a deep breath and replied softly, “I love you, Pepper, very much.” It was finally dawning on him just how much he loved her. How much he needed her in his life.

  “I love you too and that makes this a perfect day.”

  She pulled him close and they shared several passionate embraces. Pepper was getting so excited she had to back off. She took several deep breaths to try to compose herself and reluctantly got out. It took every ounce of her strength to walk away.

  Harry impulsively yelled, “Wait!” He jumped out and ran to her. He embraced her warmly and kissed her. “I couldn’t leave without holding you again. You make me so happy. I love you so much.”

  She smiled and kissed him, squeezing him tightly. She wanted him so badly and tried to fight off the impulse of asking him to stay with her. She wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him, then turned and walked slowly towards her door. She opened the
door and hesitated for a moment. She tried hard to resist, but her defenses were totally gone. She couldn’t suppress her feelings any longer. She turned to face him. “Harry, I want you to stay with me tonight.”

  He and Scooter arrived at his quarters early the next morning. He couldn’t stop thinking about her.

  “Harry, thank you for making my dream come true. I’ll treasure this trip until the day my programming shuts down.”

  “You’re welcome, Scooter. It was my pleasure, and it was great fun.”

  “What were you and Pepper doing all night?”

  “Just visiting.”

  “A long visit.”

  Harry spent the day reading reports and talking to Pepper on the vid link. He had finally found the woman of his dreams, made Scooter a happy boy and let Wanda sample the real world. He loved Pepper and no longer cared about that stupid NSTA departmental rule. He intended to marry her, if she would have him.

  He felt bad when he thought about Wanda and her isolation in cyberspace. He loved his little sister, and knew she wanted a life beyond the artificial world she lived in. He wished he could do something for her, but he didn’t know what to do. Unfortunately, it was a problem he didn’t know how to solve.

  After Harry fell asleep, Wanda spoke with Scooter. “You know, I bet it was wonderful to be out in the real world feeling and experiencing the wonders around you.”

  “It was, Wanda. I’ve never had so much fun. I‘ll never forget it. By the way Harry and Pepper are in love.”

  “Really? How do you know?”