As she watched the activity below and slightly to her right a voice made her turn her head.
“Mind if I join you?” The woman asked.
Linda Sue looked up and recognized the woman with the dark chestnut hair immediately.
As she studied the friendly dimpled smile she felt instantly at ease.
“Not at all – please have a seat,” Linda Sue said gesturing to the empty spot next to her.
“I’m guessing you know who I am but I feel it would be rude to not introduce myself. I’m Rose Bradley – Matt’s mom,” she said as she extended her right hand.
Linda Sue accepted her hand as Rose placed her left hand over top of the handshake.
“And I’m Linda Sue Banks. It’s so good to meet you Mrs. Bradley,” she said, noticing the warmth in the hands that now squeezed her hand firmly.
“Please dear. Call me Rose,” she releasing her grip but her smile never faded. “I’ll have to say, my boys can pick’em.”
Linda Sue couldn’t stifle a slight giggle.
“Thank you, you’re very kind. You know, all of this is so strange to say the least but I feel like I already know you,” she said.
Rose nodded. “And I feel the same way about you. Jett talks about you in great detail. I guess that’s the newspaperman in him – he loves giving details. I also talked to Matt tonight and I know without a doubt he loves you.”
“And I love him with all of my heart. I’d like to think that we have the same kind of love you and Jett share,” Linda Sue said.
Rose leaned in toward her. Linda Sue looked at the twinkling deep brown eyes and guessed her age to be her mid-thirties.
“I believe you two have that kind of love and let me tell you,” Rose said as she patted Linda Sue’s hand, “it’s too wonderful for words.”
Linda Sue shook smiled.
“I’m just glad you approve,” she said.
“Of course I approve! You make my son happy. You make him a better man. How could I not approve? Besides, Jett and Danny think a great deal of you too. Sweetie, you – and Maggie – help complete my family. I only wish that I could be with all of you in....a more conventional way,” Rose said as her smile faded.
“I’d like that too but at least we can talk to you and that’s better than most people have it in the same situation,” Linda Sue said.
Rose nodded in agreement. “And there’s another thing that intrigues me about you,” she said.
She then placed her right hand under the younger woman’s chin and gently upturned her face. She moved it first from right to left and then left to right.
“There is a resemblance – at least at your age. Probably more from a profile but a resemblance just the same. The hair color and style help too,” Rose said with a dimpled smile that all too quickly disappeared. “I’ll echo what Jett said – I am so sorry you’ve been drawn into this,” she said.
Linda Sue shook her head.
“I’ll be honest. The stuff that’s going on with that old woman scares me – a whole lot in fact,” she said as Rose sat quietly.
There was a few seconds of silence before Linda Sue spoke again.
“I’m sure you know I’m a Christian and I take my faith seriously,” she said.
“Of course dear,” Rose said in a motherly way as she gently patted Linda Sue’s leg.
“God doesn’t make mistakes. He put me in your son’s life at this time and this place for a reason just the same as He put you here now. It might sound funny but I feel like each of us involved in whatever is happening are part of a greater plan. As scary as that old woman and her ravings were I have peace about the future – whatever it holds,” Linda Sue said.
The dimpled smile returned to Rose’s face.
“Matt is right. You really are something special,” Rose said.
Linda Sue couldn’t help but laugh.
“In this family, you have to be special just to blend in,” she said.
“Welcome to the family sweetheart,” Rose said, pulling her in for a hug. “I hate to cut this short, but my son is about to wake you up and I need to call on another young lady.”
“Tell Maggie hi for me,” Linda Sue said.
“I will. And don’t worry. I will be with you no matter what,” Rose said.
Chapter Seventeen
Jett listened as Bud and Mallorie explained the visit from Marie. He listened even more intently – if possible – when Mallorie detailed the meeting between her grandmother and Bill Kantrell.
When she finished, Jett looked at her and then to Bud.
“Edna is not a surprise. Not only did we suspect her but also Rose told me and the boys that Edna was behind Marie’s death. After the way he acted today toward Bud and to me, I’m not shocked Kantrell was involved either,” he said.
“I’m more concerned with the ‘accident’ you’re supposed to have,” Bud said using air quotes, “Specifically, when and what.”
Jett nodded gravely. “And who will be involved.”
“Our circle of trust is shrinking – not that it was big to begin with,” Bud said.
Mallorie fidgeted nervously and constantly looked to the door and windows.
“Try not to worry. I didn’t make it home from Vietnam and survive three marriages to let somebody shoot me,” Bud said as he patted her knee.
“We need to let Al know. He can at least step up patrols,” Jett said.
Mallorie looked at Bud and turned to Jett slowly. She took a deep breath.
“I heard more than just the threats. I don’t know how she did it, but Granny played some part in killing your wife,” she said to Jett.
He looked confused.
“There must be some mistake. Rose died from cancer,” Jett said.
Mallorie shook her head.
“Granny specifically admitted to giving her cancer and said she had help – someone else that apparently shares her....power, or whatever it is,” she said.
“How do you give someone cancer?” Bud asked.
Jett’s expression shifted from confusion to shock.
“I don’t know,” Mallorie said, “She just said had the help of one other person and access to her medical records so they would know where to target.”
“You mean like casting a spell?” Bud asked.
“For lack of a better explanation, yes,” she said.
“But why Rose? By that time we had been in Lexington for years, it makes no sense,” Jett asked.
“They were worried that Marie – mom – would try to use her as a portal, a means, to get back here,” Mallorie said.
“How could Marie use Rose as a portal?” Bud asked.
“From what I gather my mom and Rose shared a common bond. Mom could have used that bond to eventually find her way back here. Granny didn’t want that to happen,” she said.
“You’re the common bond,” Bud said as Mallorie nodded sadly.
“I am so sorry,” she said to Jett, who looked distracted.
“You’re not to blame. You don’t need to apologize for anything.” He paused for a moment processing his thoughts. “Did you say Edna and someone else had access to Rose’s medical records?” He asked.
“Yes but I don’t who her help was,” Mallorie said.
“Malone,” Jett said quickly.
“Without a doubt,” Bud added.
***
Matt sat on the edge of the bed and watched Linda Sue sleep. He was hesitant to wake her not only because he didn’t want to disturb her rest but he was also aware of his mom’s intention to visit with the woman he loved.
Though he was hesitant, he was also excited. Matt wanted to share his conversation with his mom. He wanted to hear what his mom said to Linda Sue.
He was so happy he almost forgot about the potential danger before them. Remembering that detail took an edge off of his joy.
Matt saw Linda Sue starting to stir. Even in the darkness, he could still see her beautiful face nestled on the off-white pillow and matching shee
t.
Deciding to finally wake her, Matt was nearly startled when she spoke.
“Mmmm...What time is it?” A groggy Linda Sue whispered as she reached out to take his hand.
“Somewhere around four o’clock. I’m sorry to wake you,” Matt said.
She smiled.
“It’s okay baby, your mom told me you were going to.”
“So you talked to her,” he said.
Linda Sue squeezed his hand as her smile widened.
“Yes I did. I like her and it might sound funny but I feel even safer,” she said.
“We’re not going to let anything happen to you,” Matt said.
“I believe you and I believe your mom won’t let anything happen to her family,” Linda Sue said.
***
While Maggie talked with her parents about what they could face in the coming days she suddenly realized how comfortable and natural the conversation felt. Her parents now shared seats together on the couch while she sat on an ottoman in front of them.
“We’ll all be on the lookout until Marie’s killer is brought to justice,” J.D. said.
“I’ve heard plans I like better – especially concerning my daughter – but I guess it will have to do,” Alicia said.
Maggie reached out and took her hand.
“I’ll be fine mom. Besides dad will be right there with us. Right dad?” She asked.
J.D. smiled. “In one way or another.”
“See?” Maggie asked as she looked to her mom who was grinning from ear to ear.
“It won’t just be your dad watching either,” Maggie recognized the voice from behind immediately.
“Aunt Rose!” She exclaimed as jumped to feet, ran to her, and embraced her.
“It’s so good to see you kid,” Rose said.
Maggie stepped back.
“This has been the most incredible night,” she said breathlessly. “I mean...I don’t even know how to describe it.”
“None of us do,” Rose said, placing her hands on Maggie’s shoulders as J.D. and Alicia voiced their agreement.
“Did you visit the boys and Jett tonight? I know Dan was looking forward to seeing if you would,” Maggie said.
“Yes I did but I had a longer visit with the boys,” she said as she looked over to J.D. and Alicia. “Jett’s a little occupied with a late night meeting with Bud and Mallorie.”
“I see. It’s what we anticipated. Things are starting to happen already,” J.D. said.
“Yes they are,” Rose said. When everyone settled back in at the couch with Rose and Maggie sharing the ottoman, Rose proceeded to fill them in with the gist of what Mallorie told Bud and Jett about the threats.
“An accident huh? Wonder what kind they have planned?” J.D. wondered aloud.
Maggie looked confused.
“You mean you don’t know? I thought maybe you could see into the future or at least have some fore knowledge of events,” she said.
“We do to some degree but we’re not God,” he said.
“But we are literally dealing with the forces of hell and that impedes what we can see,” Rose said.
“Does it impact what you can do?” Alicia asked.
“It could if it were just us facing it,” Rose answered.
“But we have something they don’t have – the ultimate force behind us. And make no mistake, justice will be served,” J.D. said.
“Are either of you at risk?” Maggie asked.
J.D. smiled.
“No, sweetheart. We’re safe,” he said.
“How about Maggie?” Alicia asked.
“I’ll be honest. Anyone not on our side of eternity could be at risk,” Rose explained.
“But I will protect our family,” J.D. said.
“And I will protect my family and that includes this beautiful young lady, you have my word,” Rose said gesturing to Maggie.
“Maybe I shouldn’t say this but I’m still afraid,” Alicia said.
“Ali, there’s nothing wrong with being afraid. Being afraid keeps you alert and focused. That’s what we need from all of you right now,” J.D. said as he placed his right arm around his wife.
“And it is something to fear. J.D. and I know what kind of darkness we’re dealing with but we also know about the power that allowed us to come back – unending love,” Rose said.
J.D. smirked.
“‘The power of love is a curious thing’,” he quoted.
“Is that from the Bible?” Maggie asked skeptically.
“No dear, that’s Huey Lewis,” Alicia said as J.D. and Rose giggled.
“Who?” Maggie asked.
“Never mind,” Alicia said.
“Speaking of love, would you guys mind if I spoke to Maggie privately for a couple of minutes?” Rose asked.
Alicia grinned. “Not at all.”
When Maggie turned to face Rose they were no longer in her mom’s living room but in the apartment over Bud’s garage.
They were seated at what appeared to be a second hand dinette set.
Maggie could not resist running her palm across the scarred oak tabletop.
“How did you do that?” She asked.
“You’re going to find out the subconscious is a playground for fertile imaginations. You being a writer, you have a more active imagination than most people. Remember this is your dream. Yes, I’m here but you control where you’re most comfortable talking,” Rose said.
Maggie smiled sheepishly.
“I’m guessing you want to talk about Danny...Dan.”
Rose smiled softly.
“It’s okay. You’ve always called him Danny. In fact, you and I are the only ones to ever do it.”
“I don’t know how else to say it Aunt Rose, but I’m in love with him,” she said almost apologetically.
“And you have been for a long time. What’s more, he’s been in love with you for just as long – maybe longer,” Rose said.
“I hope you’re not upset,” Maggie said.
“Please. I couldn’t be happier for either of you. If any couple was made for each other, it’s you two. You know what to say to Dan and when to say nothing. And he’s like his dad. He knows only blind devotion to the woman he loves,” she said with a grin.
“Then what do you want to talk about?” Maggie asked, still leery.
“Mainly to tell you if you ever need me, I’ll be there for you no matter what. I always wanted a daughter. After the boys were born I found out I couldn’t have any more children and then Alicia gave birth to you. I enjoyed those visits when you were so little and I got to buy dresses for you and do little things like fixing your hair. It made it feel like I had a girl after all if only for a short while. And now, I have not only the daughter I always wanted, but two,” Rose said.
“Aunt Rose,” Maggie paused, “Wait, should I call you that?”
Rose laughed.
“You can call me whatever you want and whenever you want,” she said.
“Wow. I just realized,” Maggie said.
“What?” Rose asked.
“That means I have a sister,” Maggie said.
Rose laughed again.
“So you do. I need to let you get back to your mom and dad. Just remember, I’ll be around,” she said and suddenly Maggie found herself sitting on the ottoman in front of her parents.
Alicia grinned.
“Have a nice talk?” She asked as J.D. grunted out a chuckle.
Feeling 10 years old, Maggie merely smiled and nodded.
***
By 7 a.m. everyone in the Bradley house was fully updated on the information brought by Mallorie and Bud. Both stayed there for the remainder of the night as Bud dozed in the recliner and Mallorie napped restlessly on the couch.
As everyone started to rise at six o’clock the house became alive with activity.
Jett put on a pot of coffee while Linda Sue used the bathroom in the master bedroom to shower. Matt used the bathroom in the upstairs hallway while Dan waited hi
s turn.
Within the hour another family meeting was held around the kitchen table while Jett and Dan prepared scrambled eggs and bacon.
“So what are you going to do dad?” Matt asked from his seat at the table next to Linda Sue.
“Exactly what I planned. I’m going to Frankfort today to get a copy of that autopsy report,” he said as he stirred the eggs in the skillet.
“But what about this planned accident?” Linda Sue asked.
“Yeah dad, I mean whoever these people are, they don’t want that to happen,” Dan said as he forked crisp bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate.
“I understand the seriousness of the threat but I also realize I can’t avoid the trip. If we’re going to get to the bottom of this, we need those reports,” Jett said.
“What about your buddy, the chief of police? Why can’t he go? If it’s not a police matter now it will be soon?” Matt asked.
Bud looked up at Jett.
“Kid’s gotta point. They wouldn’t be looking for Al and you know you can trust him,” Bud said.
“I hate to involve him anymore than he already is,” Jett said as he scooped the eggs into a waiting bowl.
“Too late for that. When the proof comes out he’ll arrest Edna and whoever else is involved. He’s already pretty much in this up to his neck,” Bud said.
“Then what am I supposed to do if I don’t go to Frankfort?” Jett asked he sat the bowl on the table and gestured for everyone to help themselves.
“Go to work like every other day. Don’t do anything out of the normal routine. If nothing else that will keep them busy watching you,” Bud said.
“And planning. I don’t like it,” Dan said.
“But if they’re planning they’re not acting,” Linda Sue said.
“This is true,” Bud said.
“We don’t have a lot of options. It’s either ride to Frankfort with the chief of police – who will be armed – or go to the office and watch every move made around me like a nervous cat,” Jett said.
“You could call in sick and stay here,” Mallorie said.
“No,” Jett said flatly.
“Dad, you’re in danger. We’ve just got mom back. We don’t want to lose you,” Matt said.
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