When Maya returned from her cruise, Kate even threatened to tell her but that didn’t stop him from returning to the canyon. Since Maya always informed Carl of her trips back to the past, he was able to talk her out of going until Lucinda’s wedding. He used the excuse he was home for the summer and wanted her full attention. His only hope was no one would mention him to his mother at the wedding.
Kate was asked to be in Lucinda’s wedding just like before. Lucinda discovered Anna and Daniel secretly loved each other. They kept it from everyone because they didn’t want to hurt Lucinda. Of course, Kate already knew but acted surprised. They finally came to the wedding as a couple, which upset Lucinda.
The Hasting wedding took place the first weekend of September. Kate knew the marriage was going to happen no matter what she said, even though she still had the talk with Lucinda about finding true love. She decided to add one more thing to their conversation. She told Lucinda Drew asked her to marry him. Lucinda immediately wanted to take over the whole affair and Kate had to rein her in. Of course, Lucinda wanted them to get married at the Circle H but Kate promised Anna she would have the nuptials at the Circle J ranch. She was pretty sure Daniel would make the offer to Drew, too. He told Daniel during the Hasting wedding reception and Daniel did not hesitate, insisting they get married at his ranch.
After Kate returned to Ohio from the wedding weekend, she got a call from Anna. Her voice sounded excited. “I have a great idea and hopefully it will solve the Carl problem at the canyon. Bring him to Arizona for my birthday. He can meet Thomas III and his family. That might make him think about what he’s doing.”
“If he sees Thomas with his own two eyes, he’ll realize it’s wrong. A whole generation won’t be born if he continues with his plan. Good thinking, Anna.” Kate paused for a moment. “There’s something I want to confide in you. Jordyn lost the baby.”
“Oh, no, I’m sorry to hear. When did it happen?”
“A few weeks ago, mid-August. Matt planned to move into the Taylor-White house around that time. He never got the chance to tell his parents about their situation. He kept putting it off and now they’re glad he did. Jordyn seemed truly upset she lost the baby. Being the planner, she charted out the school year with her moms and Matt. She was determined to make things work. In the end, she decided she was happy about having the baby.”
“Are they still together? That can put a strain on a couple.”
“They say they’re fine but I have my doubts. I feel Jordyn’s staying with Matt more out of loyalty than love. She’s confused right now.”
“You and Lindsey need to be there for her. Give her extra attention.”
“Good advice as always, Anna. Linds and I always felt she was the lucky one. She was the one having the great high school experience. Obviously, we were wrong.” Kate felt sorry for Jordyn but knew she was capable of bouncing back. “You know what? When school starts, I’m going to nominate her for Homecoming Queen. Last year, she joked all three of us could be in the Homecoming parade.”
“What a wonderful idea. You’re a good friend, Kathryn.”
“I try. I’ll see what I can do and keep you informed.” She said her good-byes and hung up the phone. Staring out her bedroom window, Kate thought how much her friends had helped through the past year. It was time to return the favor. If Jordyn wanted to be Homecoming Queen, maybe Kate could make it happen.
Chapter Nine
Drew, Kate, Lindsey and Carl landed at the airport in Flagstaff, Arizona. Kate couldn’t believe it was already October and she was back for another one of Anna’s birthdays. Last year she had no idea what she would discover and this year was full of anticipation. Anna’s help with the wedding plans was on their to-do list and they also intended to have Carl and Thomas III meet, hopefully ending Carl’s obsession with Rachel.
There was so much going on during their short visit, Kate’s head pounded. She took a deep breath to calm herself. The image of last weekend came to mind and she smiled to herself. Lindsey and Kate had managed to make Jordyn smile again. They’d nominated her for Homecoming Queen and she won. She got to be in the parade and be the center of attention. All three girls went to the dance just like last year, only Kate had Drew as her date and Lindsey came with Charlie. Although he started his freshman year in college, Charlie flew in for the weekend. Kate was still surprised by that. Lindsey could deny it all she wanted, they were a serious couple.
Charlie joined the Jenkins entourage at the baggage claim, waiting for the Ohioans to arrive. Lindsey squeezed Kate’s hand when she saw him and took off in front of the group to run into his arms.
“Ooh! I knew there was more going on with them.” In a way Kate envied their modern relationship. She felt like hers was more old-fashioned, like she was in the courtship phase. In a few weeks, she would be Mrs. Andrew Martin and honeymoon in her favorite room at Circle H ranch. Lucinda insisted on doing something for the couple and Kate asked to stay there for the weekend. It was a perfect place for her first night with Drew. Kate knew it would be difficult to get the flowers she wanted so she asked for Lucinda’s help. Lucinda told her not to worry about a thing. She’d be in charge of the flowers and decorations. 1927 Anna also wanted to help. Kate was overwhelmed by their kindness.
“Can’t wait to see Anna again.” She told Drew. “She’s still spunky, strong-willed and smart. I never think of her as old.”
“I don’t either.” Drew smiled and pointed at Carl.
This was Carl’s first time in Arizona and he seemed to be enjoying the Jenkins family showering him with attention. Kate was glad to see that because Carl was having some difficulties lately and wasn’t confiding in her like he used to. At times he was almost distant. Kate hated that. She felt like she was losing her brother over something he could never have.
When the caravan arrived at the ranch, Kate grabbed Carl’s hand and led him inside. “Drew and I are going back to visit Anna. I want you to come with us.”
The three walked down the familiar main hall and turned right, walking through the kitchen. A light glowed from Anna’s apartment and music softly played.
“Anna!” Kate couldn’t help herself. “We’re here!” She ran ahead of the men and into the room. “Oh, she’s asleep, guys. We better come back.”
“Like hell you will!” A voice said as Kate turned to leave.
She spun back around. “Anna! How are you?” She ran to hug the small woman sitting on the couch. They caught up with all the latest news and gossip and finally Drew had to interrupt.
“Kate, you need to introduce Carl.”
“I’d know that face anywhere. Carl come over and sit down.” Anna motioned to him. The two chatted about Carl’s father and the boardinghouse. Kate noticed Anna took it slow. She didn’t even bring up the fact she knew Carl visited 1927.
“I’ve been there, you know.” Carl finally said.
“Yes, I know. I met you.” Anna nodded. Again, Kate thought it was the perfect time to let him have it but she was non-committal.
When they got up to leave, Kate decided to stay behind. “You two go on and find your rooms. I have a little more to talk to Anna about.” After they left, she turned to Anna giving her a look of surprise. “I thought you were going to talk to Carl about Rachel.”
“I could see it would do no good, Kathryn. When he talked about going to the canyon, I could see it in his eyes. There was this faraway look I didn’t think I could penetrate. He loves that girl and I don’t think it will end well. I hope meeting Thomas helps.”
“I do, too. We won’t be here long so we have to make sure it happens. I’m so worried about him. I want him to be happy and find love. Then I feel guilty trying to stop him. It’s all so confusing.”
“Party’s tomorrow, so we won’t have to wait long. You’ll just have to let this play out. What is it Maya always says? What will be, will be?”
Kate slowly nodded her head. “Okay, see you tomorrow, Birthday Girl.” She lightly hugged Anna, longing
to stay and visit but knew Anna needed her rest.
Kate was on her way to her room, when she heard her phone. It sounded like her mom music. “Mom, I’m sorry I forgot to call when we got here. We were visiting Anna and time slipped by.” Kate walked into her room and sat on the bed.
“That’s okay, honey. I’m glad you arrived safely. Just calling to tell you Dad, Maya and I will be heading back to the canyon while you’re gone. You won’t be able to reach us.”
“I’m so excited you’re going. Tell grandma I love her and will see her at my wedding.” Kate was thrilled to hear the news. “I’ll let Carl know, too.”
“I’m sure Maya’s calling him. Let Drew know we may visit his parents.”
“Sure thing, Mom, love you.” Kate said, thinking that was the end of the conversation.
“Not so fast. I have one more thing I want to discuss.” She sounded serious. “Kate, did I make a mistake giving you that book to read? I feel like I robbed you of your last years of high school. I could have waited to let you read the book, or maybe I should have never let you read it at all.”
“Mom, don’t ever say that! I love that you had me read the book. I love where my life has gone and where everything has taken me. I don’t have any regrets. This is the best experience of my life. I haven’t missed out on high school, trust me. I get involved in enough drama as it is.”
“Well, maybe things would have worked out differently between you and Tyson...if I hadn’t interfered.”
“I wouldn’t be with Tyson, no matter what. How can you say that?”
“I was just thinking about things and feel badly for him.”
“Did I hear you correctly? You said you feel bad for Tyson? After all he put me through?” Kate was steaming. Her mom still hoped Ty and Kate would be a couple, marry and live next door.
“I’m just checking. I want you to be sure of your feelings. You’re still very young.”
“Don’t remind me. If I was eighteen, I could do what I want.” Kate knew she sounded like a defiant child but didn’t care.
“I love you and want what’s best for you.” Her mom sounded sorry.
“I don’t want to fight before you leave. I love you and I love Drew. No regrets on anything.” Kate was firm but had calmed down. “Tell Dad I love him, too, and have a safe trip.”
After ending the call, she got up and stood in front of the mirror. She brushed her hair back from her face and looked closely at herself. Her natural blonde highlights were bleached out from the summer sun and the streaks through her light brown hair made it look almost golden. Her blue eyes flashed back at her as she studied her reflection. Her mother had to stop looking at her as a child. She had grown up.
There was a light tap at the door. Drew stood in the doorway smiling. “What’s my girl up to now?”
“Oh, Drew, I just talked to my mother and she can be so frustrating at times. She’s second guessing giving me the book to read.” Drew was quiet which Kate found unusual. “You don’t have anything to say about that?”
“You don’t want my thoughts, trust me.” His brow furrowed briefly and he glanced at the floor.
“Yes, I do! Spill!”
“I think your mom likes Tyson and wishes you were with him instead of me.” Drew leaned against the wall of the bedroom, crossing his arms.
“Too bad! It’s not my mom’s life, it’s mine. If she likes Tyson so much, she can date him!” Kate thought how ridiculous that sounded and started to laugh. Drew broke into a smile. “Big day tomorrow. We’re on a mission. Carl has to see the truth and drop this crazy notion he can be a part of Rachel’s world. Or what if he convinces her to come here?”
“I don’t think he told her he’s from the future, Kate. I think that would scare her or she wouldn’t believe him.” He walked over to where she stood. “Enough of this. I just came over to give you a goodnight kiss and that’s what I plan to do.” He took her gently in his arms, his mouth finding hers. Kate threw his arms around his neck and clung tightly to him, wanting him to know he was the only one for her.
* * * *
“Happy Birthday!” It sounded like one giant voice, all the partygoers rolled into one. Kate and Drew stood holding hands while they watched Anna blow out her candles. Kate knew Anna was the happiest when she had her family surrounding her.
Anna looked around at everyone. “Thank you for coming to my party. I love seeing all the generations in this room and never thought I’d live long enough to see this. I want to tell you a little about my life. When I was younger, I was a sweet, good girl.”
“You still are!” Someone shouted out, making the crowd laugh.
“Let me finish!” She put her hands on her hips to make the point. “See! I’ve learned to be more assertive and independent in my old age.”
“And you’re not old, either!” The voice called out again which made the group hoot and holler in agreement.
“I’m content in my life and happy about the way things turned out.” She looked over at her son. “Dan, I know you wish Amy was here and we all miss her. I know she’s here with us today.” Grandpa Dan held up his glass as a toast to his mother and his wife. “Remember the good times, son. She was a beautiful woman.” She brushed a tear from her eye. “To go further back in my life, I want to share how the Cook family came into our lives. We all met at the Grand Canyon. Thomas was the cook at El Tovar, I worked in the kitchen and Rachel was a hotel maid. All good, decent jobs at the time. Friendships formed, bonds were made. Thomas and Rachel married and would visit the ranch with their children. Our kids played together and grew up together. We’re so happy they are still part of our family today.”
Thomas III made his way up to the table and gave Anna a kiss on the cheek. “We love you.”
Anna took his hand. “When your grandfather volunteered during World War Two, your grandmother still came with the kids, staying overnight many times. It was a scary time for us, for the country. Everyone was so relieved when Thomas returned home safely.”
Kate knew Anna hoped Thomas would tell more of the story to Carl. Could history be wiped out in an instant if Carl didn’t take it to heart? She saw Anna shudder and stare off in the distance as if she was not in the room anymore. “Anna? Are you alright?”
“Over here, Kathryn, let’s go riding. I need to clear my head.” Anna whispered.
“Anna, I heard you can’t ride anymore.” She put her arm around her friend.
A tear fell from Anna’s eye. “Just reminiscing, I guess.”
Then it dawned on Kate that Anna’s mind was somewhere in the past. “We can ride together any time you want.” Kate kissed her lightly on the forehead.
Anna seemed to suddenly snap back to reality. “Where are my presents?”
Everyone laughed and the party continued throughout the afternoon. Kate introduced Carl to Thomas and urged him to fill Carl in on his family history. She was glad he enjoyed telling those stories because he was asked to repeat them so many times. She left the two men alone and hoped for the best.
The party ended at dusk and the guests began to leave. Kate kept herself busy cleaning up and taking Anna’s presents to her room. Her eyes kept flitting over to Carl and Thomas. They almost seemed like they were best friends, chatting and laughing.
Drew flashed Kate a look. She knew he wanted to spend time with Thomas. He missed his 1927 Thomas, she knew that. He looked so sad, she nodded her head yes, to go ahead. Carl was with him long enough. If he hadn’t learned the Cook family history by now, he never would.
Drew could hardly contain himself. Kate watched him walk over and casually join the men. Good job, Drew! Don’t act too eager. Oh, don’t pat Thomas on the shoulder or the back! Whew, he stopped himself. Kate chuckled to herself thinking she sounded like a sports commentator calling a game.
Anna and Kate walked back to Anna’s apartment so they could have some time before Kate flew back to Ohio. They didn’t know when they would see each other again and both were in tears.
/>
“I’ve been practicing texting, Kathryn.” Anna said proudly as they sat down. “So you don’t always have to call, we can text.”
“I love talking to you. Texting is fine for some of the time. We’ll do whatever you want though. Hey, I just thought of something...the next time you see me, I’ll be a married woman.”
“I hope I live long enough to see that.” Anna said woefully.
“Don’t talk like that. Of course, you will.” Kate hated when she brought up that subject.
“Kathryn, you have to face facts. I won’t always be here although I’d love to see how this all plays out. I’m afraid you’re not facing reality. I just want you to be prepared.” Anna patted Kate’s knee. “Now enough of this doom and gloom. I can’t wait to see your wedding in my mind.”
“Do you think you will?”
“I’ll let you know as soon as you get back. When is it again?”
“Two more weeks. I can’t wait.”
Kate hugged Anna good-bye and headed upstairs to pack. In the hallway, she ran into Carl. “Great day, did you enjoy yourself?”
“Yeah, it was good. I think I made a new friend.”
“Really? Is it Thomas?”
“Yep, it’s Thomas, Thomas the third.”
She hoped Carl acquired enough information to stop himself from going back in time. He was coming to her wedding but hopefully, that would be it. Plus, if he thought of Thomas as a friend, how could he change history? Thomas would cease to exist.
Kate hugged him and said, “That’s great, I knew you two would get along.”
“I know he’s Rachel’s grandson, Kate. It didn’t take long to figure that out after Anna’s speech. He likes to talk about his family and the ranger background. I found everything very interesting.”
“Good to hear. Now let’s go pack.” She hugged him again, feeling better.
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