by Sioux Dallas
“Mind!? I’m ecstatic. Let me run home and shower and change clothes. Would it be okay if I came around seven?”
“That will be just right. Thank you, Daniel.” She blew him a kiss and hurried back inside as Daniel drove off feeling like a kid that got his favorite “want thing” at Christmas.
At home Daniel told his parents of the developments cautioning them to not talk about it to anyone. “We won’t know who is involved or who might listen and report to the person responsible for the Wescott troubles.”
Lance agreed with his son and offered to do whatever he could to help.
“When are we going to meet this young lady?” his mother asked. “Naturally we’re curious about anyone you would be interested in.”
“I like her - a lot, but she has only accepted friendship. I don’t know where we’re headed or how we’ll feel about each other in a few weeks. If our relationship gets serious, you can rest assured I’ll be bringing her home with me.”
The twins had danced in while he was talking. “Is she pretty?” Adrianna asked. “Is she nice to be around?” Althea asked.
“She’s positively beautiful. She also radiates beauty from within. And yes, she’s nice to be around because she accepts people if they’re also nice. She doesn’t seek wealth or society. She’s very independent and a hard worker.”
“Well, if you like her and she’s good to you, we’ll like her,” his mother smiled.
Chapter Five
“Daddy!” Amanda spoke as if her feelings were hurt. “I didn’t tell you about Daniel to furnish you material for bad jokes. I wanted you to know how we met. The poor man must have nearly had a heart attack when I dropped on him out of the blue.”
Her mother had fallen back in her wheelchair and held her chest in shock when she heard the story. “It’s time you told us. Do you think you might be serious about this boy?”
“He’s not a boy, Mom. He’s a man, and a very responsible one at that. He’s been more helpful than you can imagine. And, no, I’m not serious. He’s just a friend.”
“Well, I’m glad you finally told us. Even though you’re a responsible adult, we worry about you and of course we love you. We’re concerned about your friends, too.”
“I know, Mom, and I love both of you. Now I have to get ready.” She had told them the bare facts and tried to play down anything that might make them worry more than they did.
“You say he’s six-five,” her father chuckled. “That must have been a real tangle of long legs. I can imagine the surprise the young man must have felt.” He then looked serious. “Honey, the most important thing is that you’re safe. I could never face losing you.”
In her bedroom Amanda called her friend, Sulyn Morris. Sulyn gave a squeal of excitement when she heard the story. “When do I get to meet this tall drink of water? He sounds divine. If you decide he’s not worth getting to know better, send him in my direction. Call me desperate, if you please, maybe it’s true. I’ve been dateless for three weeks. All joking aside, if anyone deserves good fortune and some pleasant times, it’s you. All of us know what a brick you are not just to your parents, but to all of your friends too. I’m your biggest cheerleader. Hang in there kid, and let me know about the fabulous date tonight.”
“Sulyn, you can help, if you have time.”
“What do you need?”
“I promised Margie Shoeman that I’d give her a home permanent tonight. Could you please come do it for me? I hate to let her down. She tries so hard to get by on her meager income and wants to look her best.”
“I sure will. Tell her I’ll be at her house by seven. Maybe I’ll be lucky and get a glance at your knight.”
There was more giggling and talking about future plans until Amanda realized that she had to hurry and get ready.
Amanda thought of Sulyn Morris with deep affection. They had been best buddies since the first grade when Amanda kept some bullies from pestering Sulyn who was always small for her age. Now she was an intelligent, beautiful young woman with lots of confidence and an excellent, valuable worker to a large insurance company as an adjuster.
Sulyn was only five-six with honey, blond hair that hung straight to her shoulders around a heart-shaped face. Twinkling hazel eyes made everyone feel at ease around her. Her appearance was deceptive as all who met her expected her to be passive and easygoing. She was personable and amiable, however, in business she knew what she was doing and forged ahead against all odds. Her employers were more than pleased with her work and her tenacity.
Heavenly Father, it scares me to know that someone is evil enough to not only do damage to Dad’s equipment, but is willing to risk my life. You have millions of people to look after, but I sure would appreciate it if you sent a guardian angel to go with me, at least until this mystery is solved. I know you’ve been with me this far or I would not be here; I’d be up there talking to you.
Amanda prayed as she prepared for the evening. Amanda was ready and watching for Daniel. When he drove into their driveway, she ran out to meet him and warn him that she had only told her parents of their encounter and the bare facts. She didn’t want them to know the danger she’d been in until they had more information.
“Hi, Honey. I’ve never been in this section of Galveston before. There are some gorgeous homes here on Tradewinds Dr., and you’re not far from your hangar.”
“I’m happy you approve,” she smiled. “Yes, we were lucky to get a spot on Beluche Dr. near 83M St. for our location. It’s near the International Airport, but we’re careful to stay out of their way. Come on in and meet my parents. Dad’s a big tease, so don’t let him get to you.”
Swinging hands held, they walked hurriedly up the brick walkway to a beautiful one-story brick home with bay windows on either side of the front. An old-fashioned porch with a white picket fencing around it made one feel welcome. On the porch were a swing, three rocking chairs and some potted plants. Wind chimes hung from one corner of the overhang over one end of the porch. The white front door was divided into one-foot squares on the bottom half and a stained glass window covered the top half.
Amanda opened the door and led Daniel into the living room on the left. “Mom, Dad, this is Daniel Cortland. Daniel this is my mother, Felicity Wescott and my father, Corbin Wescott.”
Daniel shook hands with Corbin with a puzzled, yet smiling expression. Corbin was about Five-nine and looked in very good shape in spite of what he’d been through. His red-gold hair was still thick and wavy. His green eyes had a twinkle that reminded Daniel of pictures he’d seen of leprechauns. He liked the man on the spot.
Turning to Felicity he saw her once golden blonde hair was fading and her hazel eyes showed pain and - was that suspicion? He took her hand and complimented her on raising such a reliable, beautiful daughter. He could see that, if she could stand, she would not be very tall. Where did Amanda get her height? It didn’t matter because she had captured his heart. He realized he must take his time getting her used to the idea. He didn’t want to push her away from him by being too impulsive.
“Yes, we’re proud of her and know how very intelligent she is. She’s been a good businesswoman and has not been frivolous like some of her friends to hurry into marriage and make mistakes. She’s too smart to get caught in that trap.” Felicity’s eyes snapped as she looked Daniel up and down.
“Now, Fliss, I’m sure the young man recognizes how smart our daughter is. Daniel, tell me about your family,” Corbin said changing the topic of conversation.
Daniel recognized that Felicity was afraid of her life changing and maybe having Amanda leave them for her own home. He smiled reassuringly at her and began to tell of his parents and his siblings.
“Amanda says you live on a ranch,” Corbin said. “I’ve always loved horses and thought at one time I’d like to live on a small ranch, but the delivery business with small planes just fell into place after I came home from service. I was a naval pilot and bought one plane first. It was the best way to supp
ort my family at the time.”
“But you loved it,” Felicity whined. “You said it was no hardship to do something you knew about and liked.”
“I sure have loved it,” Corbin patted her shoulder, “and we did it together. My daughter made top grades in school and with her short stories being published has loved being a reporter, but at the same time I taught her to fly and have knowledge about the running of my business. Little did I know that she would have to take over so soon. Oh, well. I’ve truly had many blessings and have to live with the good memories I have.”
Amanda felt uneasy with the conversation. She didn’t want her dad to feel badly about his inability to work now and she didn’t want to upset her mother. Amanda offered to show Daniel the house and the backyard, which her parents had landscaped as well as a professional. He was impressed with the beauty of the lawn and the time and effort he could see that went into it.
Leaving the living room they had crossed a hallway into a large dining room with built-in china cabinets that had stained glass doors. A large oval-shaped red cherry dining table could seat twelve. The dining room chairs had high backs and were padded with a tapestry. The kitchen was well equipped. Amanda pointed out how her father had renovated so that her mother could reach things she needed from the wheelchair.
There was a large pantry and a mud porch off the kitchen. The garage was near the kitchen and on the side. A five-foot wide, screened walkway connected the garage to the house.
Going around, they went out of the kitchen and back into the hallway where there were three bedrooms, one with a complete bathroom and the other two were connected by a complete bath. Each bedroom had a large walk-in closet.
Coming back into the living room, she saw her parents watching television intently. Corbin turned to her looking as if he were in pain.
“Daddy, is something wrong?”
“You didn’t tell us how serious the plane accident was and that you nearly lost your life.”
“What are you talking about? I know it might have sounded scary, but I’m fine. I told you about falling on Daniel. I bet he wishes he’d never seen me,” she said smiling and pretending to hit Daniel in the stomach with her fist.
Daniel caught on that she was making light of the situation trying to keep her parents from being upset. “Amanda wanted to tell you, but then decided to wait until she had more facts. The insurance investigator is on the job with Mike and the Port Authorities will do their own investigating. She did feel badly about not telling you but thought it would be better to wait until there was more to tell.”
“How thankful we are that you’re alive,” Felicity sobbed.
“Mom, where did you get information that is upsetting you so much?”
“Your mother and I were watching the news while you two were out of the room. The announcer said that there were punctures in the fuel line and that the fuel gauge wasn’t working.”
“How in the world did they get that information?” Amanda sat down worried, angry and upset. That meant someone close to her knew what was going on and had fed the information to the reporters. Who? And what was their purpose?
“I’ll check into it,” Daniel assured them. “I’ll talk to Jeff Dorton and we’ll track it down. No one, outside of the hangar, should have known about our conversation. There’s a leak somewhere. When we find the leak we’ll find the person who’s a threat to your business,” he told the Wescotts.
“Don’t make excuses for her not telling us, Daniel,” Corbin stated. “She’s our child and she knows we love her and care about her. I’m angry at myself for being unable to work and it hurts me to know that she’s burdened with the business, and us, instead of doing the work she loves and socializing with friends her own age.”
“Dad, stop it right there. It was my decision to work for you and I’m happy to do so. We’re family and we help each other. All these years of my life the two of you have sacrificed and done for me. I know it’s what parents do, but I feel so blessed that God sent me to such great parents. Don’t take away my blessing of being able to do this for you.” Amanda was very upset.
Daniel didn’t stop to think how her parents might react; he stood by her and took her in his arms while gently rubbing her back. “You left a successful job, which you loved, and were willing to give everything of yours up and work for us,” Felicity reiterated. “What we did for you was from our hearts because we wanted to and chose to. We sure never expected payment. You’ve gone above and beyond the call of duty to work at the hangar and help keep house and cook for us. We are blessed for having such a caring, dutiful daughter.” She glared at Daniel but said nothing to him.
“Let’s get out of here, Daniel, before we need knee boots to wade through this,” Amanda hiccupped on a laughing sob. She was trying to laugh and ease the tension.
Daniel shook hands with Corbin. “It has been a pleasure meeting you. I see where Amanda gets her determination and love of life.” He stooped to hug Felicity. “I give you my solemn promise, I’ll take good care of her.” Felicity only looked at him and then down at her hands, which were twisting in her lap.
Daniel took Amanda to the Cattlemen’s Association for dinner. Amanda perused the menu and finally looked at Daniel. “Why don’t you order for both of us?” She was thinking that the prices were high and she was not sure how much he could afford. All evidence points toward him having money but I don’t know for sure, she told herself. He doesn’t show off money, but maybe he’s one of those that is comfortable with wealth. And again maybe he’s been overspending trying to impress me. He doesn’t need to impress me; just be himself.
“Sure. How do you like your steak?
“Medium well.”
“So do I. Is baked potato with sour cream and salad with house dressing okay with you?”
“Sounds great. I’d think you were trying to butter me up if you hadn’t suggested the food selection first before consulting me.”
“Oh, my suspicious one. We just met, but I have a strange feeling that this friendship will develop into something more. Why don’t we relax, enjoy the evening and get better acquainted as we planned to do? You might be pleasantly surprised,” he grinned.
Daniel ordered chateaubriand for two with baked potato and sour cream and salad with house dressing. The server took their order and then asked. “And what beverage would you prefer?”
Daniel looked quizzically at Amanda. “I’d like ice water, please,” she answered.
The server raised one eyebrow and repeated, “Ice water?”
“That’s what the lady, and I, wish. Thank you.” Daniel dismissed him and passed the basket of bread sticks, butter and jellies to Amanda. They ate, talked, exchanged life stories and thoroughly enjoyed the time together.
“Good grief,” Amanda exclaimed. “All the other customers have gone and the workers are looking angrily at us. We’ve been here almost three hours,” she said in astonishment.
“See. I thought we’d get better acquainted and have a lot to talk about.”
Daniel paid the check and then stood behind her chair for her to rise. “Are you sleepy, or is there a reason you need to get home right away?”
“Neither. I don’t have to get up as early to go to church tomorrow as I do to work. It’s such a lovely night, and- oh look at the fall moon. Isn’t it big and beautiful?” Amanda stepped outside looking up appreciatively.
It was amazing how much more they found to talk about as they strolled along the street.
Later they rode in comfortable silence as he drove Amanda home.
“How about tomorrow night?” Daniel asked wistfully as he opened her door and helped her out of the car.
“So soon?” Amanda asked surprised. “Actually it’s already tomorrow, so we’re talking about tonight,” she giggled as she showed him her watch.
“I want to see you every night,” Daniel answered.
“Daniel, I don’t mean to be rude, but can you afford to eat out every night? I’d love
to be with you, but I want to share. Why don’t we go Dutch sometimes? We can go to a movie with a snack afterwards.”
Amanda jumped back in shock when Daniel whooped and laughed as he slapped his thighs.
“At last,” he crowed, “I’ve found her.”
Concerned, Amanda thought, is he safe to be around? I don’t really know him. “What do you mean, you’ve found her?”
“I’ll tell you on our wedding day.”
“What?” she yelped. “Now I know you’re unhinged. We met four days ago and you’re talking wedding. Good night, Daniel. Don’t call me, I’ll call you.” She turned quickly to hurry into the house.
Daniel grabbed her arm then jumped back, throwing his arms up and wide, when Amanda whirled around as if to defend herself. “There’s nothing for you to fear,” he said soothingly. “I told my college roommate something a few weeks ago, and it looks as if it’s going to happen.”
She said nothing and stared at him for several seconds. “Well, I’m waiting.”
“Sorry. I said I told my roommate. It’s something I’m not ready to talk about at this moment, but, like I said, I’ll tell you on our wedding day.”
“Man, you really are off balance. One part of me says, be sensible. Go inside and forget that you met this person, but the less sensible side of me says, hang in there and find out what he means. To which side should I listen?”
“Neither. Let’s take it one day at a time. I give you my solemn promise you’ll never regret it.”
“I’ve heard that before. Please don’t pressure me. I might or might not take you at your word. You’ve been kind and helpful and I’m grateful.” She turned halfway around, and good manners won out. “Do you still want to work with me?”
“Wouldn’t miss it for the world. I’ll be at the hangar at eight Monday morning, or earlier if you wish.”
“Eight’s okay.” Amanda turned quickly and stepped in the house. As she started to close the door, she stuck her head back out and called, “Thank you. I did have a lovely time.”